Mr Sprout's Blog Spot

H-ton Hawks Badge Design (2)

2007-11-01T23:26:00.000Z

After a lengthy absence, the blog will hopefully start to have regular updates. The first of which is my attempts at a badge for the H-ton Hawks.

Also, there is a new H-ton Hawks poll in the sidebar.

Entry 2

Entry 3

Raise Money with the Hawks

2007-08-01T20:18:00.000Z

Hi All
The Hawks need your help.
Graeme (Sprout), Dave and Robert (Law) all all running in this year's Great North Run in aid of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.
Please show your support by sponsoring them on their epic run so that they can raise as much money as possible for charity (not John Garrity)

The easiest way to donate money is online at

http://www.justgiving.com/htonhawks

Otherwise, you can sponsor us in person by just handing us money.

Thanks for your support.

Hawks Results

2007-07-07T12:48:00.000Z

Its been a while since the blog has been updated along with the results, so here are the scores from the previous matches, minus match reports. I can't guarantee the accuracy as I'm mostly working from memory.

Wednesday 6-a-side League
Alan's Allstars 2-4 H-ton Hawks
H-ton Hawks 2-4. Shotton FC
Hetton Casuals 2-0 H-ton Hawks
The Club 4-0 H-ton Hawks
H-ton Hawks 3-2 Npower 6s
Legends 4-2 H-ton Hawks
Alan's Allstars 2-4 H-ton Hawks
Seaham FC 2-2 H-ton Hawks
Nee Gud 0-2 H-ton Hawks
Shotton FC 1-1 H-ton Hawks

Friday Night 5-a-side League
Barmy Army 9-5 H-ton Hawks
Inta Ya Mam 7-5 H-ton Hawks
Fatfield 5-8 H-ton Hawks
Barmy Army 10-0 H-ton Hawks (forfeit)

Hawks 3-2 Nee Gud (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

2007-05-23T21:08:00.000Z

An injury ravaged Hawks showed immense character and guts to come back from two goals behind to pick up maximum points against Nee-Gud.
The Hawks were forced to recall Simpson, who hadn't played since the Hawks first ever match in which were beaten 24-2 by the Coach and Horses, to the makeshift team for this week. Houghton, who had missed Friday's draw in the Washington League, returned despite being advised to rest his persistent groin strain. He was joined by fellow injured list member Aldridge. Aldridge selflessly agree to take up the challenge of goalkeeper despite sporting a broken toe.

The unorthodox Hawks team were left chasing the game during the first 14 minutes of play. As they adjusted to play with their new players and formation, Nee-Gud took advantage by scoring twice. Despite having a few chances, Nee-Gud were able to convert in front of goal. The Hawks on the other hand had the lion's share of the play but were unable to make it count in the final third.

The second half whistle seemed to change the whole game. Nee-Gud's tactics switched to ball greedy ethic. From the centre ball to commence the half, solo runs and shots were the only play they attempted. The Hawks too were a changed team. Digging deep they chased down every ball for the whole of the second period. Hassling at the front, racing both directions through midfield, tracking back and defending in numbers. All it took was one break bay SWA as he battled his way through the opposition and put the ball in the back of the net. This was the catalyst for the Hawks comeback. Every ball contended for, not allowing Nee-Gud to settle.

An in swinging ball which SWA nodded past the keeper was the straw that broke the camel's back as far as Nee-Gud were concerned. Having contested every decision of the game, Nee-Gud appealed for the goal to be disallowed for encroachment into the box. This was never going to be given. SWA was clearly outside of the area. This upset Nee-Gud further, allowing the Hawks to turn up the pressure. Every member of the Hawks did their bit and the team were justly rewarded when SWA completed his hat-trick to put them ahead. Great defending and teamplay ensured that the score stayed this way until the final whistle.

An excellent performance boosted by the extra point for scoring 3 goals or more ensure that Hawks are still contenders for the League two title. The team of Aldridge, Cummings, Simpson, Lawrence, Houghton and Watchman-Atkinson should be proud of the way they played tonight. The game was summed up by the Hawks motto, "Hawks Fly Together".

Next week's opponent and time TBC.

Hawks Injury Crisis Deepens

2007-05-20T20:59:00.000Z

The Hawks injury problems were at a critical level today as Aldridge was added to the already lengthy list of crocked players.
Aldridge is reported to have broken his big toe is Friday's clash against Usworth. This means he joins Wilson (twisted knee), Houghton (groin) and Borthwick (San Fransico-itis) in the queue to see the Hawks physio. Return dates are yet to be determined. Wednesday's game against Nee-Gud appears to be in doubt unless the reserves can be called upon.

If you know anyone who can kick a ball then contact the Hawks. Your team needs you!

H-ton Hawks 6-6 Usworth

2007-05-19T20:42:00.000Z

In a match with a yo-yo scoreline, the Hawks were denied the full 3 points in the dying minutes.
This week saw the Innserve Ringers re-introduced to a sparse Hawks team. Only Lawrence, Cummings (goalkeeper) and Aldridge would line up from the original cast.

The match saw the lead changing hands numerous times over the course of the 28 minutes. Hawks took an early lead with an Aldrige opener, but despite a Lawrence hat-trick, they would only muster a draw form this clash. With only weeks until they quit the league, the Hawks's race to overtake Inta Ya Mam and leave the base of the division gained a vital boost.

Next Friday's game is against Albany at 7.30pm 25th May on Court 3.

Seaham FC 4-2 H-ton Hawks (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

2007-05-17T20:27:00.000Z

The Hawk's unbeaten run in the Wednesday Hetton Soccer 6 league came to an end as they failed to adapt to playing conditions.
As the heavens opened to give the Hawks their first match in the rain, their inexperience of playing on a wet surface proved their downfall.

In a game of little chances for either team, Seaham Fc could count themselves lucky to be 2-nil up at half time. Their first found the net from a wildly swung boot on the half way point. This lofted ball somehow ended up in the top corner of the goal. Their second came from a Lawrence backpass that slipped through the wet hands of debutant goalkeeper Watchman-Atkinson.

The second half was the same story. Unable to control the long high balls, the Hawks attacks quickly broke down and were caught on the counter. Both of Seaham's goals were deflected past the keep by blocking defenders. A late surge which saw Borthwick find the net was too little too late.

Next week's game is at 7.30 against Nee-Gud.

Pro Evo 13-1 H-ton Hawks

2007-05-12T20:12:00.000Z

Thirteen proved unlucky for the Hawks as they were soundly thumped by Pro Evo.
With other commitments and injuries added to the announcement that the Hawks are to quit the Friday Washington League, Mitchinson was drafted in again to fill a gap left by absentee players. This also meant that an unfit Houghton, who has been struggling with a groin injury, would have to play to make up the numbers.

No-one could be in any doubt who which team is challenging for the title and which one is propping up two divisions. In a game of total domination, the Hawks only consolation was their spirit, to turn out week after week as they struggle for players, and a late consolation goal by Mitchinson, to ruin Pro Evo's clean sheet.

Next week's game is against league newcomers Usworth.

Alan's Allstars 2-2 H-ton Hawks (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

2007-05-09T12:05:00.000Z

The Hawks failed to capitalise in the this top of the table clash as they threw away points by not concentrating.
Despite going ahead twice, the Hawks gifted the opposition points in the dying minutes when they switched off from the game. Two goals from Neil Houghton had put them into the lead, but as the game wore on, the Hawks sat back, allowing Alan's Allstars to equalise.

Despite the scoreline, the Hawks did play flourishes of good football even with injury and absence affecting the line-up.

Next week's game is against Seaham FC

Hawks to Quit Washington 5-a-Side League

2007-05-05T13:27:00.000Z

After much deliberation, H-ton Hawks have made the decision to withdraw from the Friday Night Washington 5-a-Side League. Team administrator Lee Borthwick informed the league of the Hawks intentions prior to Friday's defeat to Aparell Master.

Spiralling costs, player's other commitments and ruined Friday social lives were high on the long list of reasons to resign, and had lead to the constant struggle to find a team for Friday's matches.

Hawks web-monkey and official blogger Graeme Houghton commented, "It’s a sad to be leaving the league that brought about the H-ton Hawks, but unfortunately we all have busy lives that get in the way. It’s been fun despite the defeats and has reintroduced us all to exercise. It has just reached the time to call it a day in the Washington League. It's not the end for the Hawks as we'll continue to play in the Hetton Soccer-6 on a Wednesday and seek out other challenges."

The Hawks have informed league that will continue in the Washington League until a replacement is found, however this arrangement will only have a finite time span. As stated above, all other Hawks games and practice sessions are unaffected.

Aparell Master 12-1 H-ton Hawks

2007-05-05T13:03:00.000Z

A severely under strength Hawks were soundly beaten by Aparell Master, the team sitting second in the league.
The Hawks could not field their first choice line-up and managed to scrape together a injured, unfit and tired team.

Borthwick and Aldridge lined up along with Cummings, who was suffering from pulled muscles in the chest and tiredness from being at casualty until 3am, Houghton, still struggling with a groin strain, and Mitchinson, drafted in at the last moment. The makeshift team were there to avoid the Hawks having to forfeit.

If they had forfeit, the score line of 10-nil would have been slightly better than the final result, but the fact that the Hawks turned up to compete in this uneven contest reaffirms the Hawks positive attitude. The Hawks only goal came late into the game from Houghton, but this was the only break for them and never troubled Aparell Master's goal. The game was marred by the yellow card given to a member of Aparell Master, who took exception to Aldridge's kicks to his ankles in the corner of the pitch. The two were separated after a bit of pushing, shoving and posturing with inflated chests.

Next week's game is against Pro Evo on 11th May.

Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6 Fixtures

2007-05-03T12:05:00.000Z

Fixtures for the H-ton Hawks in the Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6 can be found at http://sproutnet.googlepages.com/h-tonhawks or by clicking here.

H-ton hawks 2-1 Nee-Gud (Friendly - Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

2007-05-03T10:56:00.000Z

In a second friendly of the night, the Hawks notched up another victory in the dying minutes.
Five of the Hawks stepped into replace a no-show team. The sixth member of their side was donated by the game's opponents and fellow tem from League 2, Nee-Gud.

Despite having just played 28 minutes of football, the Hawks seemed up for the game. Although legs were not as fresh as earlier, the Hawks were able to come back from a one goal deficit to win 2-1. The winning goal was scored by Aldridge with a wonderful chip over the diving keeper after he ran onto a through ball at the halfway line as part of a counter attack. Earlier the Hawks had been brought level by Borthwick.

Additional note: The Hawks must learn how to take a legal throw-in as too many balls were being given away due to foul throws. Masterclass details to follow in due course but pre-class reading can be found here.

H-ton Hawks 4-0 Npower 6s (Friendly - Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

2007-05-03T09:28:00.000Z

H-ton Hawks notched up their second win is as many weeks against N-power 6s, although this time it was only a friendly.
Dominating the first half, the Hawks took control and put the game out of reach of the Npower 6s in this replacement fixture.

A convincing first half display yielded goals from Borthwick (2), Lawrence (1) and Houghton (1). Passing was confident and saw good off the ball movement. The second half was slower in tempo as the Hawks sat back on their lead and allowed Npower to chase the game with debut keeper Aldridge putting in a solid performance.

H-ton Hawks 3-0 Legends (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

2007-05-02T19:57:00.000Z

The Hawks pick up another 4 points in the Hetton Soccer-6s, albeit by default due to a no show by the Legends.
The Hawks, sitting 3rd in the table before this game, were awarded a 3-nil win against their absent opponents.

The next game is against Alan's Allstars at 6.00pm 9/5/07.
This is the match the Hawks were supposed to be playing when Botty cocked up the fixture list.

Save Neighbours on the BBC

2007-04-30T18:05:00.000Z

Click on the link below and help keep the BBC the home of Ramsay Steet.

Online petition - KEEP NEIGHBOURS ON THE BBC

Read All About It

2007-04-27T20:26:00.000Z

The local press have finally jumped the Hawks bandwagon. The region's top reporters have caught the Hawks bug and are following in the footsteps of Mr Sprouts Blogspot by producing a weekly match reports, that can be found in the Sunderland Sports Echo. Read the in-depth analysis of the Hetton Soccer-6 Leagues every Saturday evening.

Lucombe 5-7 H-ton Hawks

2007-04-27T20:21:00.001Z

The Hawks were impressive in this well deserved victory over Lucombe.
Once again the Hawks line-up was changed. Borthwick and Aldridge were out as they had gone to the Sunderland vs. Burnley match (Sunderland 3-2 Burnley) and Wilson was out running as training for a judo competition on Sunday. This meant Cummings returned to keep goal in his first match back from honeymoon and Jaff would make his Friday Washington League Hawks debut.

From kick off the Hawks dominated the play and took the lead early on with a SWA goal. There were more goals to follow, with the Hawks finding themselves 4-nil up. Lucombe started their come-back with one goal before half time and a handful in the second half. This would not be enough for them to upset the Hawks who had coolly built up a several goal cushion. The Hawks slowed the tempo down and played out the remainder of the match. As the final whistle blew, the Hawks congratulated themselves on a job well done.

Goals came from Jaff (3), SWA (3) and Lawrence.

The next game is against Aparell Master at 7.30pm Friday 4th May.

H-ton Hawks 5-0 Npower 6s (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

2007-04-26T12:08:00.000Z

In stark contrast to the earlier friend game, the Hawks put in a convincing performance to beat Npower 6s.
By the time the correct match time came around, the Hawks had made changes to their line-up. Russell was out, off to watch the Manchester United Champion's League semi-final, and Aldridge and Neil Houghton were in. Watchman-Atkinson also made a well dressed appearance as the Hawks manager.

In a stylish, well battled performance, the Hawks ruled the pitch with a confident display in front of goal and a solid defence at the rear. This gave the Hawks the first points of the new league formation. Goals came from N. Houghton (2), Lawrence, Borthwick and G. Houghton.

Next week's game it TBC (this time we'll try to get the time and opposition right).

H-ton Hawks 0-4 Hetton Scaffolders (Friendly - Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

2007-04-26T12:05:00.000Z

Contrary to what was published in the previous Hetton Soccer-6 match report, the Hawks were not playing Alan's Allstars at 6pm.
Team administrator Lee Borthwick had misread the fixtures, resulting in an embarrassed Hawks team turning up 2 hours early. With such an early supposed kick off, the Hawks had drafted in Jaff, now a Hawks regular, Ross Millard and Russell (Sorry, don't know your surname). This was to replace Aldridge, who works until 6pm, Garrity, on the wrong work shift, and SWA, who was just missing. Jaff, Millar and Russell were joined by Borthwick, Lawrence and Houghton.

Despite turning up early, the Hawks were given a friendly to compete in against division 1 side Hetton Scaffolders, who's opposition had failed to turn up for the second consecutive week. Unfortunately the Hawks weren't up to the challenge and put in a poor performance. With players struggling to find their natural positions, Hetton Scaffolders ran out 4-nil winners.

D.P. Trophies 7-4 H-ton Hawks

2007-04-22T18:31:00.000Z

A makeshift Hawks team put in a brave performance but came out on the losing side again.
With Borthwick and Cummings missing on love duty, and Wilson running around the neighbourhood with a string of children in tow (all above board... it's a judo thing), the Hawks line-up consisted of Lawrence in goal, Aldridge, Garrity, Houghton and Watchman-Atkinson.

Despite a solid start, the Hawks found them in the familiar position of being behind
and chasing the game. The unfamiliar line-up was taking it's toll with Aldridge and Houghton playing rear guard and SWA and Garrity playing forward. This resulted in a 5-nil score line at halftime.

The second half was a different story. The Hawks upped the tempo and started to get rewards. Two penalties were awarded for their persistence; one for the keeper collecting the ball outside of his box and one for a backpass without touching a minimum of two outfield players. Garrity stepped up and slotted both home. He completed his hat trick with a well battled effort. The Hawks other goal came from a long ranged speculative shot from Houghton. Alas the comeback was not to be, and D.P. Trophies added another two to their tally. The game may have finished 7-5 but the Hawks showed great character and can take a lot from the game.

Next week's game is against Lucombe at 7.30pm on Court 2.

The Club 4-3 H-ton Hawks (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

2007-04-18T19:58:00.000Z

For the second week in a row, the Hawks suffered defeat at the hands of The Club
The Hawks team line-up was the same as last week's (Aldridge, Borthwick, Garrity, Houghton, Craig(Jaff), Lawrence) plus the addition of Steve Mapstone.

The match was a closer fought affair than the previous week's game. The Hawks were the first to strike. Borthwick stole the ball on the half way and scored from his solo run through the middle. Then in a mirror of the previous week, The Club scored 4 without response. The second half saw the Hawks bounce back with Borthwick picking up his second and Garrity opening his Hawks scoring account. The Hawks can feel thy missed out on picking up points on the re-launch of the league. They were unlucky not to have scored more and the defence was relatively solid (for the second half at least). The referee also had a poor game. He gave The Club both the centre kick offs, dismissed a blatant infraction into the box by The Club. There was also some other questionable decisions against and for both teams.

The next game is at the earlier time of 6pm, 25th April against Alan's Allstars

Back by unpopular demand,
Houghton injury update:
Jarred Big toe (again), jellyfish legs, pulled groin and twisted testicle.
Expected lay-up: Not long as he has to get training for the Great North Run

Barmy Army 8-6 H-ton Hawks

2007-04-13T21:15:00.000Z

In a high tempo and well fought game, the Hawks can feel aggrieved to have not picked up any points against Barmy Army
This week saw the Hawks field five original members in the bottom of the table clash against Barmy Army.

During a goalless first 5 minutes the Hawks looked the most likely to score with a handful of chances. The defence also looked solid, closing down Barmy Army well. Unfortunately this didn't last. A long range effort found the corner of the Hawks net, out of the reach of keeper Borthwick. This would be the theme of virtually every goal by Barmy Army.

The Hawks did not sit back and allow Barmy Army to continue to score long range goal after goal. The Hawks pulled it back level on many occasions. A pattern of going two goals behind, only to bring it level minutes later was continue up until the final whistle. Unfortunately for the Hawks this was before they had chance to equalise.

The game saw Lawrence score 5 goals, with Houghton picking up the 6th.

The next game is against D.P. Trophies on 20th April.

Shotgun Steven

2007-04-11T22:30:00.000Z

The H-ton Hawks Team Photo

2007-04-11T22:24:00.000Z

The H-ton Hawks first team

Top Row (left to right): Lee Borthwick, Steven Wilson, Simon Watchman-Atkinson, Steven Aldridge.
Bottom Row (left to right): Graeme Houghton, Dave Cummings, Robert Lawrence

Dave & Lauren's Wedding

2007-04-11T22:16:00.000Z

Photos from the nuptials are now online. They can be found by clicking on the happy couple below.

H-ton Hawks 1-5 The Club (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

2007-04-11T20:45:00.000Z

With more team changes forced upon them, the Hawks failed to gel.
Cummings, Mitchinson and Watchman-Atkinson were out, Jaff and Garrity were in.

The Hawks started out on the back foot and the match continue that way until the end. Without a regular goalkeeper for Wednesdays the Hawks had that extra issue to deal with. Against the run of play, the Hawks actually took the lead from a Lawrence penalty kick. This was conceded when one of The Club's players entered their own box. The goal came at the second attempt as the penalty had to be retook after the referee rule there had been encroachment.

This lead would be short-lived. The Club stepped it up a gear and they soon had the ball in the back of the net several times. The Hawks did to help themselves as they not make the most of the chances they had.

The Hetton Soccer-6s has an overhaul next week. The teams have been divided into two leagues. All previous results are cancelled. The leagues start afresh.

The next game is 18th April - 7.30pm against The Club

Tenerife March 2007

2007-03-31T20:05:00.000Z

The photos from another week away in the sunny isle of Tenerife

They can be found by clicking here or by clicking on the picture below.

You can compair them to mine and Botty's photo's from last year. Nothing much has changed except we look slightly older.

Fatfield FC 7-4 H-ton Hawks

2007-03-31T20:01:00.000Z

The Hawks found themselves on the end of a 7-4 defeat by a new team taking the place of Fatfield FC.
With the alcoholic Hawks in transit back from their week of debauchery and tomfoolery, the Innserve ringers stepped in for the challenge. Unfortunately the challenge was too much.

The next game will be in two weeks, after the Easter break. The game is at 7.30pm, 19th April on Court 1 against Barmy Army.

Alan's Allstars 3-2 H-ton Hawks (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

2007-03-29T20:20:00.000Z

With absent Hawks members slowly poisoning themselves with cheap continental vodka, two new recruits stepped into the breach.
Despite the addition of David "Jaff" Craig and Ross Millard, and the continuation of Mitchinson's inclusion, the Hawks slipped up against their old adversaries from the Houghton Feast 5-a-side Tournament.

Hawks goals came from Lawrence and Millard.

The next game in the Hetton 6-a-side league will have to be forfeit due to the full team being in Scotland for Dave and Lauren's wedding.

H-ton Hawks 5-3 Inta Ya Mam

2007-03-24T18:50:00.000Z

The Hawks knock up their second victory of the season in the Washington 5-a-side league.
Despite missing four of the regular Hawks (Aldridge, Borthwick, Houghton and Wilson were off on their week long mission to destroy their livers and kidneys in Tenerife), the stand in team did a sterling job and notched up a win. This was partial helped along by the in-fighting and arguments taking place in the Inta Ya Mam team as the Hawks took the lead. That said, nothing must be taken away from the Hawks performance.

Next game is 7.30 30th April against Fatfield FC.

H-ton Hawks 4-0 Npower 6s (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

2007-03-22T12:50:00.000Z

The Hawks picked their first victory in the Hetton Soccer-6 League in style against Npower 6s.
The Hawks underwent a change on the team sheet and on the pitch as they convincingly took maximum points. Borthwick took an outfield role and there was new recruit to the Hawks in the form of Steven Mitchinson. With Borthwick's position change, Lawrence took up the role of goalkeeper in the first half, with Mitchinson taking over after the break. The Hawks also had the bonus of having 7 players available for selection, so the rolling substitute option was used - each non-goalkeeping player would switch after 5 minutes.

The Hawks made a solid start and dominated with attacking play, however it took a while before Aldridge slotted home the opener with a impressive solo goal from the left hand side. The Hawks maintained the lion's share of possession for remainder of the half but the score would stay at 1-nil going into the break.

The second half started out more tentatively with the Hawks seem to sit slightly back on their lead, allowing the Npower 6s to push towards the goal more. The Hawks soaked this up and Borthwick managed to score on the counter-attack. This seemed to be the blow which made the Npower 6s admit defeat. Borthwick slotted home his second in to an open goal as he stood unmarked on the edge of the box from a Lawrence run down the right. There were no opposition players with 10m as the ball hit the back of the net. The Npower 6s did make a late rally but didn't trouble Mitchinson's goal. Borthwick killed the game off as he completed his hat trick. The Hawks may feel aggrieved that they did not score more as they had chances which came close. No more so that the last kick of the game in which Lawrence's effort curled wide from the left side of the box.

Next week's match will see the Hawks without Aldridge, Borthwick and Houghton who are off sunning themselves on far-away shores.

Next match details is against Alan's Allstars.

It has been proposed that the pitch sizes will be increasing and therefore later kick-offs would be introduced to cope with the loss of 1 game per half hour being played. Further details to follow when available.

Houghton injury update:
Nothing to report apart from a slight tan scuffing

Albany 9-1 H-ton Hawks

2007-03-20T19:39:00.000Z

The Hawks were beaten by a flattering score line in this top versus bottom clash.
The 9-1 score line flattered Albany, but they did run out deserved winners.

The Hawks held their own in the opening period, playing some good football and may have felt their efforts deserved some rewards. The half started with a controversial hard tackle from an Albany play with saw Cummings end up crashing into one of the artificial walls that enclose the court. The Albany player was given a well justified yellow card. Had this been later in the game, he could have received a red.

Despite the Hawks good play, Albany showed why they are top of the league by scoring freely. A change at halftime (Houghton for SWA) could not stop the goals from being conceded. The Hawks goal came in the second half in a similar manor to the only goal against Aparell Master, Houghton down the right flank, his shot rebounds to the centre of the box, for Lawrence to convert.

The next Washington 5-a-side League game is 7.00pm Friday 23rd March against Inter Ya Mam, on Court 2. The Hawks will be without Aldridge, Borthwick, Houghton and Wilson as they will be sunning it up in Tenerife.

H-ton Hawks 1-2 Lyons Lads (Wednesday Hetton Soccer-6)

2007-03-14T21:20:00.000Z

The Hawks made a solid debut in this new start-up league despite starting off with a defeat. The Hawks have been placed in League B
Adjusting to the new conditions (outdoor), surface (Astroturf with sand and coned of pitch sections), rules (no head height rule) and 6 players per side, took the Hawks a short while. They played some good football but Lyons Lads, with their rolling subs took a two goal lead. The Hawks fought back and had the better of it in the final third of the game, creating many chances and coming close on numerous occasions. Houghton scored the Hawks only goal of the game. Aldridge did put the ball in the back of the net in the closing minutes but the referee had failed to play the advantage for an infringement and the Hawks had to be content with a free kick on in the final third.

The Hawks were invited to play a friendly immediately after their match, to fill in for missing opposition. With SWA having commitments, Aldridge, Cummings, Houghton and Lawrence were joined by a donor member from the other team. Borthwick fancied a stint in outfield so Lawrence and Cummings each took a half in goal. The game ended in a 4-3 defeat but the Hawks were not at full steam due to it being a friendly, having played 30 minutes previously, and not having their full, first choice team.. They can take good experience and positives from this and hopefully use them in their forthcoming games.

Next Hetton Soccer-6 is against Npower 6s at 7.00pm Wednesday 21/3/07

Houghton Injury Watch:
This week: Bruised Big Toe & pulled groin.
Expected lay-up: less than 1 week

Hetton 6-a-side League

2007-03-11T20:51:00.000Z

The Hawks will make their debut in the newly formed 6-a-side League at Hetton School at 6.30pm on Wednesday 14th March.

Players to be there at 6.15 for a briefing on the rules.

Famous Faces

2007-03-11T19:39:00.000Z

http://www.myheritage.com

Benicàssim Blog Entry

2007-03-11T19:24:00.000Z

I've never got around to finishing it so I thought I migh as well publish it in it's incomplete state. This might inspire me to try and finish it.

You can view it HERE.

Enjoy

Barcelona Slideshow

2007-03-11T17:01:00.000Z

H-ton Hawks 8-8 Three Counties

2007-03-10T18:33:00.000Z

Despite playing against only 4 men, the Hawks had to settle for a draw.

A last minute equaliser and abysmal refereeing by the same geriatric blind referee that has blighted the Hawks in recent weeks, denied the Hawks the full three points. The Hawks also picked up their first yellow card since they joined the league. Rodgerson was the guilty party but decided to give Houghton's name.

The next game is against Albany at 6.30pm Friday 16th March.

Pro Evo 7-2 H-ton Hawks

2007-03-04T17:45:00.000Z

The Hawks continued to suffer from a lack of team line-up consistency with an other defeat.

An admin error and injury meant that the Hawks were once again struggling for a team. These factors meant that the makeshift Hawks team had an uphill struggle from the start. This lead to the inevitable defeat.

Next game is against Three Counties at 6.30pm, Friday 9th March on Court 2.

Aparell Master 13-1 H-ton Hawks

2007-02-25T17:20:00.000Z

The Hawks put in a below par performance and were deservedly thumped 13-1

The Hawks went into the match fielding a below strength team due to a shortage of players. This resulted in Houghton, returning from a rib injury, was forced to play the full game.

The Hawks' only goal came from Lawrence on the edge of the box after a Houghton shot rebounded on the far right wall. However, this was the only positive from the game.

Houghton Injury Watch:
This is a new feature in which we list the new injury that Houghton picks up each week he plays.
This week: The Big Toe.
Expected lay-up: 2-3 weeks

Next Game is against Pro Evo on 2th March.

Barcelona Montage

2007-02-25T13:56:00.000Z

Lucombe 9-8 H-ton Hawks

2007-02-21T15:38:00.000Z

In a game of two vastly differing halves, the Hawks lost by one goal from the last kick of the game.
The Hawks boasting a squad of 5 players and 3 subs were confident after the previous week’s victory and first points. With SWA missing on love patrol with his lovely girlfriend and Aldridge still on the injury list, emergency players were drafted in to replace the absentees and to aide Houghton, returning to play after a string of injuries (toe & ribs), who would only feature as a late substitute.

The opening team consisted of Bortwick (goalkeeper), Cummings, S. Wilson, Lawrence and Foster. This team was slow to gel and Lucombe had the best of the play for the entire first half. Attacking moves were ineffective and exposed the defence too many times. Goals from Lawrence and Wilson didn't prevent the score from being 6-2 to Lucombe at half time.

The second half saw two substitutions being made by the Hawks - Cummings and Foster made way for Rodgerson and N. Wilson (no relation to S. Wilson). This would change the game. Some excellent midfield passing play saw a plethora of goals being scored by the two substitutes and Lawrence, although the Hawks continued to concede. With minutes remaining Lawrence left the pitch allowing Houghton to play his first game since 19th January. This would not be a victorious return. The Hawks conceded a free kick near the edge of the box and were caught napping from the resulting play allowing Lucombe to score from the last kick of the match. The Hawks did not realise they had been so close to picking up at least a point. The game finished 9-8.

Comment has to be passed on the extremely poor refereeing again by the same referee mentioned in previous match report. The Hawk's actions on this are yet to be decided but a complaint in some form will be lodged.

The next game is against Aparell Master 7.30pm, 23rd January on Court 2.

H-ton Hawks 7-6 D.P. Trophies

2007-02-15T20:29:00.000Z

At long last H-ton Hawks recorded their first win.
Unfortunately this was only a pseudo win as all of the regular members were absent and had been replaced by work colleagues.

Well a win is still a win. The regular Hawks team is back this week and hope to build on this - complete with their new strip.

Next game is Lucombe on Friday 16th Feb, 7.30pm on Court 2.

Help Raise Money for Kyu-Shin-Do-Ryu Judo Club

2007-02-13T12:52:00.000Z

The Hawks very own Ninja Wilson requires your help.
By using the link below to buy stuff from the lots of well known and popular online retailers, you can help raise money for his judo club (Kyu-Shin-Do-Ryu Judo Club).
Such stores are HMV, Game, Play.com, Amazon, Marks & Spencers + many more are there
The purchases will cost you no extra than normal but the club receives a percentage of each your spend.

http://buy.at/ksdrjudoclub

So remember to visit the site when you shop online.

Also, if you want to make me money, please click on the adverts on Mr Sprout's Blogspot & the Val Thorens site. Get get a couple of pence for every click from the nice people at Google.

Barmy Army 7-4 H-ton Hawks

2007-02-06T20:46:00.000Z

In a game they should have won, 90 seconds of madness cost them the game
Despite scoring first, having the majority of the play and being level at 4-4 with only 5 minutes to play, the Hawks somehow lost.

The Hawks took the lead early on from a quick free kick from Borthwick after he was fouled on the right of the Barmy Army area. This lead was held for quite a while and the Hawks still threatened. This attacking style cos them and after some pressure, found themselves 3-1 down. A Borthwick goal brought it back to 3-2, but a controversial goal was given against them. The referee, who had until now a questionable performance, decided the ball had crossed the line. His decision was far from clear. The point at which the Hawks knew the goal had been given was as they started to play the ball out from the back, the ref stopped play. This spurred the Hawks into action. Borthwick completed his hat trick and Wilson scored with help from a slight deflection. As the Hawks applied further pressure, with 5 minutes left the Hawks look like they could take all the points. Alas this wasn't to be. The foot was taken of the gas as fatigue set in and concentration slipped. This allowed the Barmy Army to fight back. And their fightback overwhelmed the Hawks. 3 goals within 90 seconds doomed the Hawks to another defeat. Despite a few last minute attacks by the Hawks, the score would end 7-4.

The next game for the Hawks is scheduled to be against D.P. Trophies 7.30pm Friday 9th Feb on court 1, however the game is almost certain to be forfeit due to the majority of the team away in Barcelona and the reserves short on the ground.

Snowboarding - Val Thorens 2007

2007-01-28T23:52:00.000Z

Just in case you weren't aware that I'd been snowboarding in Val Thorens, well I have. It was excellent fun, if not very cold and destructive to the body. Since there was 18 of us that went (+2 extra in our chalet) we've decided to collaborate all of our photos and videos into one place.

www.valthorens2007.blogspot.com

H-ton Hawks 5-11 Fatfield FC

2007-01-26T23:13:00.000Z

With the Hawks missing Houghton, Wilson, Aldridge and Borthwick due to snowboarding, re-enforcements were called in.
This, however, was not enough to secure any points. Even with new recruits P Wilson and Rogerson having reasonable debuts, the Hawks streak without pointscontinues.

Next game is against Barmy Army

Inta Ya Mam 7-4 H-ton Hawks

2007-01-19T23:00:00.000Z

In a match they should have won the hawks put in a woeful performance and were duly beaten.
Despite going 1-nil ahead the Hawks proceeded in one of their worst displays to date and were soundly defeated 4-7. Missing Wilson and Aldridge due to Snowboarding and G Houghton due to injury, the team consisted of Borthwick (goalkeeper), Cummings, Watchman-Atkinson, Lawrence, N Houghton. There was no urgency or energy in the Hawks' play and too many silly mistakes gifted the game to a poor opposition.

Hawks goals came from N Houghton (2), Watchman-Atkinson (1 - pen) & Lawrence (1 - free kick).

The next game is against Fatfield FC at 7.30pm, 26th January, Court 2

H-ton Hawks 3-4 Albany

2007-01-15T12:50:00.000Z

In their closest league game to date, the Hawks were unlucky to lose by a one goal margin.
Playing against the league's top team, Albany, H-ton Hawks put in a brave performance which saw them be denied of their first points of the season by a late goal.

Despite the obvious gap in ability between the two teams, which can clearly be seen by the league table, the Hawks soaked up the early pressure from Albany with a tight defensive display. Despite this one way play, it was the Hawks who took the lead with a well struck long range effort. This seemed to be a bit of a catalyst to even out the play. The one goal advantage lasted for a fair period of time, but inevitably this was cancelled out. It wasn't long before Albany followed up with a second. The game remained 2-1 until half-time.

The second half saw a repeat of the first half. Albany applying the majority of the pressure with the Hawks remaining firm at the back but still ready to push forward in search of goals. With Albany proving difficult to break down by individual play, the Hawks opted for playing more through balls from midfield through to the front. It was this play that brought the equaliser. Houghton's ball from wide right to Lawrence allowed him to slot home. Albany came out and took back the lead but the Hawks still had fight left. In an almost carbon copy of the previous goal, Houghton threaded the ball to a forward running Lawrence who duly converted the chance with a excellent strike.

With the score all square with minutes left, the Hawks looked like they were ready to lose their point scoring virginity. Alas this was not to be. With three minutes left, the solid Hawks defence slipped up allowing Albany to score what ultimately turned out to be the winner.

The Albany coach heaped praise on the Hawk's performance, pointing out the vast improvement from the last time the two teams played each other. The Hawks can once again take positives from the performance in preparation for the bottom of the table clash with Inta Ya Mam formerly Remmer & the Arg (previous games (1), (2)). The Hawks will be without Aldridge and Wilson who are resting to avoid injury prior to their snowboarding trip, and Houghton who picked an foot injury during the Albany game and doesn't wish to aggravate it prior to the same trip.

Inta Ya Mam vs. H-ton Hawks, 6.00pm, Friday 19th January, Court 2

H-ton Hawks 4-9 Three Counties

2007-01-07T12:42:00.000Z

2007 started as 2006 ended... with another Hawks defeat.
The Hawks, however, can take positives from the game as they put in a good performance that did not deserve the score line.

The Hawks started the game brightly taking a 2-nil lead. Both goals from Lawrence - one from open play and one from a penalty conceded when the Three Counties keeper left the box. The Hawks kept up the pressure, but the opposition crept back into the game and eventually taking the lead through a cruel deflected goal off Lawrence. Wilson brought the game back to level pegging with a left-footed effort that crept under the keeper.

With thinks pretty even going into the second half, the Hawks were confident that they could take their first points of the season from the game. This was not meant to be. Despite Aldridge scoring his debut goal, Three Counties put the game beyond the Hawks reach. Great goal keeping from Cummings kept the score down, and the Hawks were unlucky not to have added to their goal tally as all members of the outfield team had chances which weren't converted.

The Hawks must build on this performance, increase their fitness (which was a huge factor in the second half) and try to lose some of the holiday weight that some of the members have gained over the festive period.

The next game is against league leaders Albany at 7.30pm 12th January on Court 3.

SWA & Sarah - Screen Stars!

2006-12-23T11:29:00.000Z

Enjoy the Field Music video for House is not a Home staring the H-ton Hawks very own SWA and the lovely Sarah

Pro Evo 8-2 H-ton Hawks

2006-12-21T13:12:00.000Z

In a well battled game the Hawks were made to pay for simple mistakes
Despite an impressive first period, the Hawks were punished in the second half, leaving them still in the hunt for their first points of the season.

With the game goalless after 7 minutes, the Hawks played some excellent, if defensive, football. Closing down the opposition and chasing down every ball. Unfortunately the deadlock was broke by Pro Evo. Shortly after the first goal, a second was added. This was a controversial goal. A skyward bound shot from Pro Evo hit Lawrence in the face and deflected into the Hawks net. Despite protests that this shouldn't count as it was over head height, the referee said it would stand. The Hawks were soon to respond to this with a Lawrence strike to cancel out the previous goal.

At half time the Hawks trailed 3-1. The first half performance was solid and could have been their best performance in the league to date. The second half started well for the Hawks with Houghton crossing to Wilson from the right to make the score 3-2. However, just as things were looking promising, the Hawks threw it away with a catalogue of rookie mistakes. Lack of movement from the throw-outs and bad keeper throw-outs gifted the ball to the opposition allowing them to score. All 5 goals in the second half probably could have been prevented. That said, Pro Evo did play well.

The next game will be after the Christmas break against Three Counties, 7.00pm 5th January 2007 on Court 2. Let’s hope the New Year brings a change of fortunes to the Hawks before they disrupted by the many first quarter holidays planned by most of the members.

H-ton Hawks MANY-FEW Whitfield's United (friendly)

2006-12-14T12:57:00.000Z

In a friendly game played on Wednesday, the Hawks showed they could play as an efficent, goal scoring team, as the put in an excellent, well rounded team performance and trounced Whitfield's United.

This fixture had to be moved from Hetton Sports Complex to Houghton Sport Cente due to dangerously high winds. This also caused the game to be pushed back an hour to 9pm. Despite the late kick-off, the Hawks were far from asleep. In a blinding opening 10 minutes, the Hawks dominated with slick passing and solid defending. This saw them take a comprensive early lead. This continue for the rest of the game, even though some goals were conceded.

The Hawks hopefully can use this match as a springboard for Friday's game against Pro Evo in the league.

Aparell Master 14-1 H-ton Hawks

2006-12-13T15:55:00.000Z

A Hawks team with temporary members suffered a compressive defeat to the hands of Aparell Master.
With only three original members of team H-ton available to play, two replacements had to be drafted in to cover. The combined effects of the new players plus the gulf in footballing ability between the Hawks and Aparell Master proved too much and the Hawks found themselves out of the game from the start.

The two new players, Day and Garrity, did not come with the Hawks ethic - don't forget the club motto "Hawks Fly Together". They played for themselves. Garity played like he was the only member on the team and had the inability to pass. He was interested in the glory of scoring and not the team. The two newest members were also defence shy, so Lawrence and Houghton found themselves playing from the back for the majority of the game. Houghton also might as well have been invisible going forward as the Garity non-passing meant that every run into space was met with nothing.

Silly goals were also given away as the newbies were not playing to the whistle. A penalty from a backpass and a pass of the ball to the opposition standing on the edge of the box, letting them score, after just stopping when an appeal for handball was lodged were among some of the lowlights of this dreadful and unenjoyable game.

The new members were not the sole cause of the defeat. Aparell Master were actually very good with some excellent individual players.

So the next match is against Prov Evo, 7.30pm 15th December on Court 1. Sorry Day and Garrity.... don't call us... we'll call you.

Make the Hawks a Household Name

2006-12-11T13:24:00.000Z

The following has appeared on the bbc web site. Get your thinking caps on for what we can write. Help make the H-ton Hawks famous by coming up with something that will get us chosen by the BBC. Just imagine the progress we can make if we have a team of professional coaches to help us..... and also the revenue we can get from advertising, this blog site and sales of official H-ton Hawks club strips and other memorabilia (I somehow don't think so - this is a joke if anyone from the BBC reads this). So get you thinking caps on and we'll try to win it for the Hawks (well it would be the first time the Hawks have won anything)

"Football team wanted

Is your team ready to line up?
Do you play football for a team in dire need of a helping hand?

Your defence has more holes than Swiss cheese, your club shower is piped in from the Arctic and your boss is a clown.

Our amazing competition can change all of that, fire you up the league table and make you stars on the BBC.

We want to take a team under our wing and follow them for the rest of the season, documenting every high and low along the way.

The story of your season will appear on BBC Sport Academy and 606 each week showing your results, match reports and who the crazy characters are in your team. Plus we'd love to feature you on BBC radio and TV.

Our aim is to improve your team and we are willing to recruit a full range of sporting experts to help out.

Whether it's a top manager, player, psychologist, or even a nutritionist, we'll send them to your club if you think it will help.

We want to show your team to the world and prove why the blood, sweat and tears at amateur level is the real deal.

All you have to do is tell us in no more than 250 words why we should pick YOUR team.

Please email your entries to us using the form below by Friday 22 December.

A shortlist will be drawn up before choosing the winning team. Please note that we can only accept entries from teams with players aged 16 and over.

Make sure you have read our competition rules before submitting your entry.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/get_involved/6191552.stm "

Mr Sprout - Blogger Upgrade

2006-12-10T10:42:00.000Z

Apologies to all.
Blogger has been upgraded to a new version (out of my control).
While this offers access to some brand new features, some of the old stuff will need adapting... which will take time that I don't have at the moment. The posts will still be coming but may look a bit naff. Please stick with me over the coming weeks and I'll sort it all out.
Mr Sprout should be back better than ever
(disclaimer: May not be better than before)

Lucombe 5-1 H-ton Hawks

2006-12-06T12:48:00.000Z

The Hawks suffered a awful defeat against Lucombe in the league
As I wasn't there again, I cannot comment on the Hawks performance, but I'm told it was shocking.

The Hawks goal came from SWA.

However, it looks like the Hawks have registered their first win of the season due to an admin error. According to the league table they have won 1, lost 2. We'll see how long this lasts.

This week's game in against Aparell Master, 7.30pm 8th Dec on Court 1.
This fixture may end in disaster as at point of writing this entry, the Hawks have only 3 players available for the game. If you are able to kick a ball, please contact us via the contact link at the side of the page or by clicking HERE and let us know if you can play in this Friday's match.

H-ton Hawks 5-8 D.P. Trophies

2006-11-28T12:52:00.000Z

In a game of two vastly different halves, the Hawks threw away a comfortable lead to slump to another defeat.
After leading at half time by 5 goals to 2, thanks to a Wilson hat-trick, the Hawks game plan backfired and they found themselves on the end of a 8-2 kicking.

As I wasn't at the match I cannot comment on anything else, but a more comprehensive match report may follow if some cares to write me one.

Hawks goals came from Wilson(3), Cummings(1) and SWA(1). Man-of-the-match was awarded to Wilson for his first half display.

Next match is against Lucombe on 1st December at 6.30pm on Court 1.

Barmy Army 8-5 H-ton Hawks

2006-11-18T11:19:00.000Z

In a well fought opening match in the second division, the Hawks continue their quest for their first win.
In a close game the Hawks battled throughout the match but found themselves on the losing side at the final whistle.

The first half started with the usual story. The Hawks found themselves 1-nil down after a few minutes. In previous weeks this had proved a problem, but their new found confidence in front goal mean that the score line at half-time was a respectable 3-2 to Barmy Army. The first half was not without incident. Borthwick, in goal whilst still taking it easy from his ankle injury, conceded a penalty when he slid across the box and toughed the ball outside of his area. To much relief, he tipped the resulting spot kick around the post. This was then followed by a freak goal for the Hawks. Lawrence took a powerful shot on the right side of goal. The shot was well saved by the keeper. The ball then hit off the side wall, came back toward the goal and crept into the net behind the keeper.

The second half started with even possession for both teams. As the half progressed the Hawks picked up more play and looked dangerous in front of goal. The Barmy Army had a switch around at half time, with the first half keeper taking up position in left defence. As the Hawks looked for goals to square-up the match, or even go ahead, their efforts were dashed by two long range efforts. With a packed defensive line, marking members of the Barmy Army, a couple of shots were able to find their way through to goal and into the net, past a blindsided keeper.

The Hawks were unlucky not to get pick up any points from their first match of the new season. Goals came from Lawrence(3), Watchman Atkinson(1) and Cummings(1). Man-of-the-Match went to Borthwick.

The next match is 6.30pm Friday 24th November, on Court 1, against D.P. Trophies.

Remmer & the Arg 8-8 H-ton Hawks (Pre-Season Friendly)

2006-11-11T00:03:00.000Z

The H-ton Hawks are left disappointed after they fail to pick up their first win.
In a game they should have won the Hawks should they do have the ability to score goals.

This week the team was Borthwick (goalkeeper), Lawrence, Cummings, Houghton and Watchman Atkinson as Wilson and Aldridge were sidelined with man-flu. After a very scrappy first 5 minutes in which the Hawks were all over the place, they found themselves 1-nil down, but managed to turn things around with by applying pressure to the opposition and pulling off excellent passing manoeuvres. It wasn't long before the Hawks were in control. For the remainder of the first half they dominated the play. This resulted in some in-fighting between the Remmer & the Arg team-mates. This spurred the Hawks on and they took a 6-2 lead.

With the Hawks in a commanding position the game looked theirs. Unfortunately in the world of H-ton Hawks, things never go to plan. The lack of fitness kicked in and the Hawks started to struggle. The runs down the flanks that had proven so decisive in the first half dried up. The play from the back was flat. The running machine that is Houghton descended into a canter after a knock in the chest winded him.

The Hawks momentum had ceased. Remmer & the Arg pulled it back to 6 all, then it went to 7-6. The Hawks found themselves behind for the first time since the opening goal. They dug deep to find an equaliser but then fell behind again. With minutes to go, Houghton let rip with a long range power shot which caught a slight deflection and went sailing into the goal. 8-8 was the score with only a couple of minutes remaining. This was to be the end of the match. A member of the opposition turned their ankle straight after the restart resulting in the rest of the game being abandoned due to the time the first aid treatment took.

This was a very entertaining game for the spectator. Dave the referee commented that it was on of the best games he'd seen. Hawks goals came from Houghton(3), Lawrence(3) and SWA(2). All the goals were well taken in their own right. The unselfish play by SWA in passing to Law to calmly slot the ball past the keeper, the individual skill of SWA to talk on players and power home the goal, and the shear persistence of Houghton to intercept the goal keeper's throw-out and knock it into the back of the net. Cummings played a solid performance in defence and Borthwick played another blinder in goal. The Hawks will be disappointed not to take a win from this fixture.

Next week sees the first week of the new season with the Hawks in division 2. The game is on Court 1 at 7.30pm, 18th November against Barmy Army.

Mr Sprout goes MySpace

2006-11-07T13:46:00.000Z

For some strange reason, I've started up a MySpace page.
It will generally be a duplicate of this site.

The web address is www.myspace.com/htonia

If your signed up to MySpace, you can sign up as a friend (that sounds so desperate and lonely - I'm not a Billy-no-mates - Honest!)

Remmer & the Arg 5-4 H-ton Hawks (Pre-Season Friendly)

2006-11-05T11:24:00.000Z

The Hawks came so close to their first victory in a pre-season friendly against division 2 opposition Remmer & the Arg
Again this week the Hawks were thin on the ground in terms of team members. Cummings and SWA were missing due to prior engagements, Wison was still been a big girl with his bad thumb, and the resident emergency ringer Neil Houghton was also on the injured list. Therefore another Houghton brother, Craig, stepped up for the challenge.

The Hawks started badly conceding a couple of weak goals, but as the game progressed, the game evened out. After half time the Hawks were the better team but the inability to finish was the overriding factor. The frustration of failing to find the goal caused the Hawks to drift up the pitch, exposing them at the back. Some excellent goal keeping by Borthwick in his first game back from his ankle injury kept Remmer & the Arg from increasing their lead further, but this wasn't enough to prevent another Hawks loss, albeit only a friendly.

Once again inconsistent refereeing saw the match become very scrappy at points. The Hawks can be pleased with their passing display throughout the game which opened up the opposition and lead to all of their goals. Goals came from Lawrence(2), C Houghton(1) and G Houghton(1).

The next game is another pre-season friendly against Remmer & the Arg, 7.30pm Friday 10th November on Court 3.

Competition: Design The H-ton Hawks Badge

2006-10-31T13:52:00.000Z

With the Hawks about to embark on their first full season in the Washington-5-A-Side Friday League, it is about time that they adopted a badge.

Your challenge is to design a badge/logo for H-ton Hawks football team.

Send your entry by clicking here or by emailing it to sproutnet(at)googlemail.com (at=@ - the change is to avoid me getting spam from web crawl programs)

Entries will be displayed on this post below this text.
Please give you view on the entries via the comments button. Don't forget to say which entry you're commenting on.

Entry 1

By Lee Borthwick

H-ton Hawks Results and Fixtures

2006-10-29T12:25:00.000Z

This post will be updated weekly with all the H-ton Hawks results and fixtures. Each result will have a link to the match report.

This post will have its own permanent link on the Blog side bar.

All games are in the Washington 5-a-Side League unless stated.

Albany vs. H-ton Hawks 7.30pm 25/5/07 (Court 3)

H-ton Hawks 3-2 Nee-Gud 23/5/07 (Hetton Soccer-6)

H-ton Hawks 6-6 Usworth 19/5/07

Seaham FC 4-2 H-ton Hawks 16/5/07 (Hetton Soccer-6)

H-ton Hawks 1-13 Pro Evo 11/5/07

Alan's Allstars 2-2 H-ton Hawks 9/5/07 (Hetton Soccer-6)

H-ton Hawks 1-12 Aparell Master 4/5/07

H-ton Hawks 2-1 Nee-Gud 25/4/07 (Friendly - Hetton Soccer-6)

H-ton Hawks 0-4 Npower 6s 25/4/07 (Friendly - Hetton Soccer-6)

H-ton Hawks 3-0 Legends 2/5/07 (Hetton Soccer-6)

Lucombe 5-7 H-ton Hawks 27/4/07

H-ton Hawks 5-0 Npower 6s 25/4/07 (Hetton Soccer-6)

H-ton Hawks 0-4 Hetton Scaffolders 25/4/07 (Friendly - Hetton Soccer-6)

H-ton Hawks 4-7 D.P. Trophies 20/4/07

The Club 4-3 H-ton Hawks 18/4/07 (Hetton Soccer-6)

Barmy Army 8-6 H-ton Hawks 13/4/07

H-ton Hawks 1-5 The Club 11/4/07 (Hetton Soccer-6)

H-ton Hawks vs. Hetton Collery 4/4/07 - H-ton Hawks forfeit due no team

Fatfield FC 7-4 H-ton Hawks 30/3/07

Alan's Allstars 3-2 H-ton Hawks 28/3/07 (Hetton Soccer-6)

Inter Ya Mam 3-5 H-ton Hawks 23/3/07

H-ton Hawks 4-0 Npower 6s 21/3/07 (Hetton Soccer-6)

Albany vs. H-ton Hawks 16/3/07

H-ton Hawks 1-2 Lyons Lads 14/3/07 (Hetton Soccer-6)

H-ton Hawks 8-8 Three Counties 9/3/07

Pro Evo 7-2 H-ton Hawks 2/3/07

Aparell Master 13-1 H-ton Hawks 23/2/07

Lucombe 9-8 H-ton Hawks 16/2/07

H-ton Hawks 7-6 D.P. Trophies 9/2/07

Barmy Army 7-4 H-ton Hawks 2/2/07

H-ton Hawks 5-11 Fatfield FC 26/1/07

Inta Ya Mam 7-4 H-ton Hawks 19/1/07

H-ton Hawks 3-4 Albany 12/1/07

H-ton Hawks 4-9 Three Counties 5/1/07

Prov Evo 8-2 H-ton Hawks 15/12/06

Aparell Master 14-1 H-ton Hawks 8/12/06

H-ton Hawks MANY-FEW Whitfield's United (friendly)

H-ton Hawks 1-5 Lucombe 1/12/06

H-ton Hawks 5-8 D.P. Trophies 24/11/06

Barmy Army 8-5 H-ton Hawks 17/11/06

-^-^-^-^-^- 2006/07 Season - League 2 -^-^-^-^-^-

Remmer & the Arg 8-8 H-ton Hawks (Friendly) 10/11/06

Remmer & the Arg 5-4 H-ton Hawks (Friendly) 3/11/06

H-ton Hawks 10-0 Entertainers 27/10/06

Bathroom Unit 10-3 H-ton Hawks 20/10/06

Houghton Feast 5-A-Side Tournament 15/10/06

Victoria 22-0 H-ton Hawks 13/10/06

Entertainers 14-4 H-ton Hawks (Assoc. Cup) 6/10/06

Roof Truss 15-1 H-ton Hawks 29/9/06

Bathroom Unit 12-0 H-ton Hawks (Sub Cup) 22/9/06

New Team 8-0 H-ton Hawks (Sub Cup) 15/9/06

Roof Truss 0-10 H-ton Hawks 8/9/06

Bathroom Unit 18-2 H-ton Hawks (Sub Cup) 1/9/06

Coach & Horses 24-2 H-ton Hawks (Sub Cup) 25/8/06

-^-^-^-^-^- 2005/06 Season - League 1 -^-^-^-^-^-

H-ton Hawks 10 - 0 Entertainers

2006-10-28T11:50:00.000Z

The Hawks picked up a default 10-nil win in the Friday League this week when the Entertainers failed to show
With Lawrence away, Borthwick still on his road to recovery and Wilson being a big girl just because he's hurt his thumb, Neil Houghton was again drafted in and SWA had to overcome his fitness problems and play a full game.

H-ton Hawks 6 - 10 Davie's Youngins (Friendly Match)

As a replacement for the Entertainers no-show, Davie's Youngins took on the Hawks in a Friendly match. Unfortunately, with this being a friendly game, the effort level was low, resulting in goals being conceded that shouldn't have been. Despite this, the Hawks used this game (well, the second half) to show that they could score goals and create chances going forward. Goals for the Hawks came from N Houghton(3), SWA(2) and G Houghton(1).

The new season starts next week with the Hawks division 2 opener seeing them make their debut on Court 3 at 7.30pm against Remmer & the Arg.

Fury at Footbal Fees

2006-10-24T12:59:00.000Z

A shocking price increase for games in the Washington 5-a-side League has been imposed for the new season
Despite claiming to be one of the cheapest leagues in the area, the increased costs have prompted H-ton Hawks to re-examine their membership in the league.

A letter was issued to all teams. It reads as follows;

Washington 5-a-side
Leagues Association
10a Victoria Rd. Concord. Washington.
(0191) 4187204
20-10-06

Dear Manager,
It is with regret that unfortunately due to circumstances beyond our control. the cost of the games (indoor) w ill increase by £5 per game. per team as from the 1st January 07. We have always tried to keep the cost of football reasonable to team members. However due to a big increase in court fees at venues and referee fees increasing also spiralling costs and loss of funding £50,000, we have no alternative but to increase the cost of football in the new seasons.

The court fees for the Friday league will increase in the new season November 06.

At present we are trying to raise more funding to reduce this cost back down and you will be informed if we are successful in doing so. We pride ourselves on been the only league trying to keep the cost down for individual members.

As from November 06, for the new season in the Friday league and 1" January 07, for the new season in the Sunday leagues increases in football will be as follows:

Riverside 7-A-Side League cost per game £22.00
Northumbria Centre 5-A-Side Leagues per game (indoor) £22.00
Northumbria Centre Men's Work 5-side League per game (indoor) £22.00

The Cost per member 7-a-side no subs =£3.14 per person
With 3 subs (outside) =£2.20 per person
The cost per member 5-a-side no subs =£4.40 per person
With 3 subs (indoor) =£2.75 per person

Annual registration fees will remain the same £25.00 per team, per season and fines will remain the same. This includes all cup games and your Durham Affiliation Fee is included in this amount.

Finally the committee have decided to come down hard on teams not finishing the season and will charge teams full costs until the end season if they leave without the secretary's approval, also shin pads and the right footwear must be worn or players will not be allowed to play.

I am really sorry about the increases but we are still one of the cheapest leagues in the area according to Durham Football Association and the research we've done.
May I take this opportunity to thank you for you're continued support and I hope you can understand why we have had no alternative but to increase the cost.

Yours in Sport

D.A.Munneke
On behalf of the management committee

Bathroom Unit 10 - 3 H-ton Hawks

2006-10-23T11:16:00.000Z

With Borthwick injured, Wilson on judo duty and SWA's fitness proving a problem, the Hawks drafted in Neil Houghton to try and bring skill and stability to the game. This might have been the case but the referee prevented this from happening. In a game dominated by the referee's ineptitude, the Hawks slumped to another defeat to the hands of the old enemy of Bathroom Unit. Goals for the Hawks were provided by Lawrence(1) and N Houghton(2).

H-ton Hawks: Name Poll

2006-10-17T12:07:00.000Z

I've added a poll to the site on the bar at the side.

Cast your vote and give your view using the comments button below this post.

Injury Blow for the Hawks

2006-10-16T08:30:00.000Z

The H-ton Hawks suffered a setback this weekend when the ankle injury sustained by Lee Borthwick in the Houghton Feast 5-A-Side Tournament turned out to be more serious than thought. After visiting hospital, it the injury has been confirmed as a break. Part of the ankle bone has been snapped off and could require surgery. Borthwick is to visit a specialist on Monday to advise if an operation is needed. He is expected to be out of action for at least 6 weeks. Updates on the situation will be posted when available.

Update: The break is not a serious as first feared. However, Borthwick will be unable to play for the Hawks for 6 weeks.

Houghton Feast 5-A-Side Tournament

2006-10-15T14:25:00.000Z

The Hawk's debut in the Annual Houghton Feast 5-A-Side Tournament ended in disappointment as they failed to make it to the semi-finals.
With only 5 members of the squad available to play, the Hawks had a tough task to play 8 games without substitutes.

Game 1: Purely Belta 1 - 0 H-ton Hawks
In a poor opening game the Hawks suffered a defeat against a team they should have beaten. Conceding a poor goal, the Hawks didn't convert their possession and chances into goals.

Game 2: H-ton Hawks 1 - 2 FC Nostradamus
In a well fought game, the Hawks suffered their second defeat. With further improvement showing they were unlucky. The Hawks goal was a corker from Aldridge. On the receiving end of Houghton's short pass from a free kick on the edge of the opposition's area, he skilfully curled the ball into the far top corner of the goal.

Game 3: Alan's All-Stars 3 - 1 H-ton Hawks
Game 3 was another defeat for the Hawks, this time conceding 3 goals. With the performances improving, the Hawks still couldn't catch a break. The Hawk's goal in this match came from an open play shot from Houghton which hit the post and was deflected into his own net by the keeper.

Game 4: H-ton Hawks 1 - 3 Bare-arsed Monkeys
In another game that the Hawks should have won, they conceded 3 unnecessary goals. One from a penalty kick due to the ball crossing the halfway line from the keeper's throw without bouncing. Borthwick finally managed to break his goal drought with the Hawk's only goal of the game.

Game 5: H-ton Hawks 1 - 0 Purely Belta
This game saw the Hawks first win of the tournament. In a controlled performance, Lawrence was able to put away the goal that won them the game. This win was overshadowed by an ankle injury suffered by Borthwick in the second half. This resulted in the Hawks playing the last two minutes with only 4 men. Cummings pulled off a brilliant last minute save to secure full points for the Hawks.

Game 6: FC Nostradamus 2 - 0 H-ton Hawks
Despite receiving treatment for his ankle injury, the Hawks were forced to rearrange their line-up at half time. Borthwick took position in goal and Cummings slotted into defence. This change also meant Lawrence assumed a more forward role in the hunt for goals. Unfortunately, even though the changes did not change the dynamics of the team, the Hawks conceded two goals and another defeat.

Game 7: Bare-arsed Monkeys 0 - 0 H-ton Hawks
With Bothwick continuing in goal, the other players couldn't make their chances count in this physical bottom of the table clash. With both sides ruing missed chances, the match ended in a stalemate.

Game 8: H-ton Hawks 1 - 2 Alan's All-Stars
Requiring only a draw from the game to secure a semi-final place, the Hawks still had everything to play for. The All-Stars went in at half time with a 2 goal advantage. The second half saw better play from the Hawks, with them making use of space they were finding. Cummings managed to pull one back with a well taken goal from the right-hand side. Unfortunately time was against them and the Hawks couldn't find the goal they desperately needed and were to be knocked out of the tournament.

The Hawks can take a lot from this tournament; all players scored and the performances showed the team is much improved.

Victoria 22 - 0 H-ton Hawks

2006-10-15T14:12:00.000Z

The Hawks suffered a deserved heavy defeat at the hands of Victoria in the Friday League
In a game that had no positives for the Hawks, Victoria, who are the best opponents played to date, hammered home chance after chance. Despite the large lead, Victoria never let up. They were chasing every ball up until the final whistle. The Hawks were never in the game. With no individual performance warranting a mention, we won't.

The Hawks must improve this week against Bathroom Unit, 7.00pm Friday 20th October (court TBC).

Entertainers 14 - 4 H-ton Hawks (Association Cup)

2006-10-09T12:20:00.000Z

The Hawks improvement continues but they once again lose to an unflatering margin
Despite an impressive opening to the game, the Hawks could not capitalise and sunk to a defeat in the quarter final match of the Association Cup. This week the squad was missing Wilson who was busy perfecting his ninja skills, and Borthwick started on from the bench. The Hawks had a promising opening first 5 minutes, closing the ball down well and keeping possession. This was capitalised on with a great left wing move, with SWA finally crossing to the goal scorer Lawrence.

The lead, however, was short lived with the Entertainers coming scoring goals in quick succession to go ahead. After missing training for 2 weeks and last weeks game, SWA's fitness was suffering. This resulted in a forced substitution. With Borthwick adopting a forward position, the defence was left exposed, resulting in further goals being conceded. Houghton managed to pull one back with his first of the season. This came from battling open play on the right hand side. The Entertainers claimed that Houghton had encroached on the box, but the referee dismissed this.

Starting the second half 5-2 down, the Hawks were in a not out of the game yet. Unfortunately, the Entertainers seemed to have their lucky shooting boots on. Even though Cummings put in a brave display in goal, their shots seemed to find the bottom corner, out of the reach of the keeper's fingertips. The Hawks managed to pull two further goals back, Borthwick this time supplying the assist from the left to give Lawrence his second, and a one-two by Houghton and Aldridge from a restart game Houghton the space to take on the defence before coolly slotting home his second of the match. This was all to be in vain as the Hawks conceded more goals, resulting in the final score being 14-4.

The next match is Friday 13th October at 7.00pm on Court 1. Friday the 13th lives up to its reputation for the Hawks as they face tough game against top of the table Victoria.

Great North Run 2006

2006-10-03T12:47:00.000Z

Congratulations and well done to Robert who completed this year's Great North Run in around 2 hours 20 mins. He also managed to raise around £200 for Barnardo's.

Roof Truss 15 - 1 H-ton Hawks

2006-10-02T13:36:00.000Z

In what was undoubtedly the best Hawks team performance of the season so far, they lost by a unjustified scoreline against Roof Truss in a league game
It a high tempo and well fought match, the Hawks suffered a heavy defeat against Roof Truss. With Lawrence sidelined due to his Great North Run preparation and SWA unable to make the match due to musical commitments, it meant that the five remaining team members would be forced to play the full 28 minutes.

The Hawks were 5-1 down at half time, with the goal coming from a well taken chance by Wilson, however they crumbled to a 15-1 defeat by full time. This was mostly down to fatigue. Despite the scoreline, the Hawks are still upbeat due to the performance and effort they put in against vastly superior opponents.

The next game is at 7.30pm Friday 6th October against Entertainers in the quarter finals of the Association Cup

Bathroom Unit 12 - 0 H-ton Hawks (Friday Subsidiary Cup 2006)

2006-09-27T13:00:00.000Z

The Hawks again suffered a heavy defeat in the Subsidiary Cup.

Despite a strong start, it was the same old story. With the Hawks continuing to draw a blank up front and leak goals at the back, the same old excuse of lack of skill and fitness maybe true, but this is starting to wear slightly thin. With the Sub Cup over and the final few league games of the season left, the Hawks need to get a few more matches under their belts before starting afresh in the Second Division. Hopefully the drop in division should provide a more realistic challenge.

Next match is 7.00pm Friday 29th September on Court 1 against Roof Truss in the League. This team provided the Hawks with their best result to date - they didn't turn up and the Hawks were awarded a 10 nil victory.

New Team 8 - 0 H-ton Hawks (Friday Subsidiary Cup 2006)

2006-09-18T12:18:00.000Z

Despite a much better performance, the Hawks were still unable to get a winning result in the Friday Subsidiary Cup
Even though they were beaten 8-0, H'ton Hawks were upbeat about the result. Playing a much younger and skilful team (I know this seems to be the excuse every week), the Hawks battled throughout the match showing the determination that they have not joined the league just to make up the numbers. The game started with Borthwick switch to goal Cummings switched to defence and due to the squad rotational system, Lawrence and Aldridge were on the bench.
The Hawks started well, soaking up the pressure from the opposition even though the game was destined to become a farce when the organisers were unable to supply coloured bibs for one team to wear, as both teams were dressed in white (England home shirts). Unfortunately the conceding of goals was inevitable as the Hawks, despite their fitness, began to tire. Even though the fatigue was kicking in, the Hawks continued to battle in a rough, physical game. Houghton was penalised on numerous occasions against the wall for reaching around the opposing players in an attempt to force the ball into open play. The referee seemed slightly one-sided on this and was failing to notice the shirt pulling and holding by the opposition.
The second half saw much of the same style of play by both teams. We saw a straight swap with Lawrence and Aldridge replacing Cummings and Watchman-Atkinson. The Hawks did come close with a few long range shots from Lawrence and Houghton, but the team were unable to find the back of the net. New Team did not have this problem. They found the net a total of 8 times throughout the match. It could have been a cricket score if it wasn't for numerous good saves from Borthwick and the tireless defensive work by the rest of the team who were tracking back and covering at every opportunity.

Next match is 7.00pm Friday 22nd September on Court 2 against Bathroom Unit. This is the final group game in the Subsidiary Cup 2006.

Roof Truss 0 - 10 H-ton Hawks (Friday Subsidiary Cup 2006)

2006-09-11T11:47:00.000Z

With the opposition failing to turn up, the Hawks enjoyed a default 10-nil win.
Despite the fact Roof Truss were AWOL, H'ton Hawks managed to play in a hastily arranged friendly match against unknown opponents.

H-ton Hawks 9 - 9 Unknown Opposition (Friendly Match)

The Hawks were able to field a strengthened squad, as 7 members turned out for this week's game. With a squad rotational system being implemented by the Hawks' management, Houghton and Aldridge found themselves on the bench for the start of the game.
The first half saw the lead switch backwards and forwards with some good possession, skill and passing from the Hawks. At half time the Hawks went in 6-5 up and a double substitution saw Houghton and Aldridge replace Wilson and Watchman-Atkinson. The second half saw more of the same style of play. The Hawks should have taken the win but a few unforced errors allowed the opposition to take advantage and force the draw.
The performance was much improved on previous weeks. The benefit of weekly training sessions showed and the the players' adaptation to the pace of competitive games are starting to prove that they can compete at this level. This should allow for an interesting next match against a team they were beaten 24-2 by only a few weeks ago.

The next game in Friday 15th September at 6.30pm on Court 1 against the Coach & Horses.

Leeds Festival 2006 - Bramham Park

2006-09-09T12:38:00.000Z

Pictures from the Leeds Festival 2006 at Braham Park are now online. You can view them by either clicking here or on the picture below.

Bathroom Unit 18 - 2 H-ton Hawks (Friday Subsidiary Cup 2006)

2006-09-02T16:32:00.000Z

H-ton Hawks suffered another heavy defeat despite fielding a revised and strengthened team. The change of line-up and position shuffle did not provide enough to prevent the Hawks slumping to a 18-2 defeat to Bathroom Unit.
Even with captain Robert Lawrence missing, the addition of Borthwick and Houghton (returned from festival duty), and the switch of Cummings to goalkeeper had promise to overcome last week's beating. This, however, was to be the case.
Bathroom Unit, a team mainly consisting of younger, fitter and more skilful players, used all three of these attributes to tear apart the Hawks defence and score goal after goal. Closing down the Hawks and not letting them play the ball, Bathroom Unit showed to all how big the gulf between skill and fitness levels was.
Despite a better second half performance, great goalkeeping from Cummings and a couple of consolatory goals from Borthwick, nothing could stop the 18-2 rout from taking place.
The Hawks can use this game as the route to gain further experience and match fitness.

Next match is a Subsidiary Cup group game on Friday 8st September 7.00pm, Court 1 against Roof Truss.

Coach & Horses 24 - 2 H-ton Hawks (Friday Subsidiary Cup 2006)

2006-08-29T12:14:00.000Z

Fielding a weakened side, H-ton Hawks suffered a heavy defeat in their debut game. Missing several key players on festival duty, the under-strenth Hawks slumped to a 24-2 defeat to the hands of the Coach & Horses in the Friday Subsidiary Cup.
A combination of the high standard of opposition versus the poor standard of the Hawks caused them to be 3 nil down within five minutes. A goal by Cummings, coolly slotted through the legs of opposition keeper, only seemed to annoy th opposition into stepping up their onslaught. The Coach & Horses soon realised the that the Hawks' goal keeping was not up to par and started shooting on sight, resulting in around 14 goals in a 10 minute period.
The second half saw a slight Hawks improvement, a goal from Lawrence placed into far corner and a few saved shots from Wilson and Aldridge. With goalkeeper Simpson vastly improved, he saved several shots limiting further embarrassment, however the tempo was still too fast. Credit to the Hawks as heads did not drop even with the scoreline ending 24-2.
Team captain Robert Lawrence said, in the post match interview, "I couldn't fault the effort but the tam were found wanting in fitness and quality. Special mention must go last minute replacement goalkeeper Tree who did well to keep the score below 30".
Lee Borthwick, Chairman/Manager, who was absent for the match, commented "It was a disappointing result but things will improve. The squad has the potential to succeed once all players return from festival duty".

Next match is a Subsidiary Cup group game on Friday 1st September 7.00pm, Court 2 against Bathroom Unit, a team currently 5th in the league.

Link: Washington 5-A-Side League

V Festival 2006 - Weston Park

2006-08-21T20:04:00.000Z

Photos of the V Festival 2006 at Weston Park, Staffordshire, are now online at my flickr.com site. They can be viewed by clicking here or on the photo below.

The Great Benicàssim Adventure 2006

2006-08-16T18:13:00.000Z

Well they said we'd never make it but we did. Okay it wasn't in the VW Campervan, instead a year old VW Golf, but we did get there none the less.

Anyway this is the journal of 4 plucky explorers (Me, Nick, Anna & Kerry) who decided it would be a good idea to drive to the XII Festival Internacional de Benicàssim in Benicàssim, just north of Valencia.
If you wish to skip the journey and go straight to the festival stuff, click here

Day 1 - Saturday 15th July 2006

With the Campervan out of action, we set off in the VW Golf, complete with hired roof box (it was supposed be only a large roofbox but we were upgraded to extra large for free as the had no large left... and boy did we need it) bound for Dover, to catch our ferry across La Manche. Setting off around 11am and arriving by 4pm with only 1 stop isn't bad for 350 miles. Shame our ferry wasn't until 8.30pm. However we still went straight to check in and they allowed us onto the 4.30pm ferry for the small fee of £7.50. The fact that we checked in at 4.20pm didn't phase them and will pulled straight onto the Sea France ferry and we were away.

The crossing itself wasn't too bad but the sea was still a bit choppy. It gave you the feeling of being a bit tipsy without the hangover. However I did nearly injure myself a few times in the Duty-Free shop as I was unsteady on my feet. After the short journey across the Channel, it was down the car hold to make our vehicle legal for the impending journey through the Europe by attaching my GB sticker and headlight reflectors.

Setting of from Calais port on the french side of the road was a bit daunting as the first thing you hit is a roundabout. I'm sure they just put it there to be awkward. Straight to fill up with the lovely cheap petrol on the continent.... except it isn't cheap (well in France anyway). It's about the same price as England.

Anyway, its still early so we set off to try and cover as much ground as possible. After going the wrong way for 15 mins, we turn around and head towards Paris on the A26. The Autoroute's are great apart from the tolls. 130km/h in the dry. It's like speeding but legally (drops to 110km/h in the wet though). Not that the French adhere to the speed limits. They easily were doing 90mph+. Not that we could catch them in a car with 4 people, full boot and roofbox.

After about 90mins on the road we stop at a service station only to bump into a convoy of 3 english cars going to Benicassim. They didn't seem to be taking my as their cars did not have full boots. They told us that their plan was to take turns driving and reach the north coast of Spain without stopping. They claim that there was a campsite with a large pool and waterslide that they were going to stay at until the Benicassim camping opened. Fools.... This was around 1000 miles they were going to do non-stop. After doing around 400 miles already that day I knew they were going to regret it. Plus, there was no need to rush. They could have taken their time and enjoyed a bit of France.

So we left the services and powered along the Autoroute while Anna and Kerry search through some camping books for somewhere to stay. (These books were a godsend. We where going to travel without any sort of guide but were given these at the last minute, and boy did they come in handy. There's no way we would have found any campsites without them). The only one we could see was at least 100km away so we stopped at the next services, grabbed a sandwich (cheese & ham - the only food in existance in mainland Europe), and asked the madamoiselle in the petrol station if there was anywhere to camp nearby. After receiving a "je ne sais pas", we ate our sandwiches quick and headed towards the nearest campsite in our book - a place near Saint-Quentin.

Stick my foot down, as it was getting late, we soon reach our exit junction. We pull off the Autoroute, pay our toll at the booth, and head towards the campsite. After a few wrong turns we head along a windy road into the contryside, through some small villages and past some huge wind turbines. We finally arrive at Camping Caravaning Vivier aux Carpes in Seraucourt-le-Grand, only to find it is shut. I look does look okay from the outside, with the river Somme running beside it. We try to call the number in the camping guide but the number diverts to an answerphone. How dare it be shut at 10.30pm?

It was looking likely that we would be sleeping in the car tonight as we were in the middle of nowhere with no clue where to go to stay for the night. On only hope was a travelodge style hotel we had passed 20mins ago. Balladins Express St-Quentin - Gauchy. (Warning: The official website makes the place look good. Read on for the truth)

With Anna and myself the only ones able to speak any french at all, we go to investigate. Since its nearly 11pm, the reception is shut, and bookings are made through a ATM style machine in the foyer. As we are muddling our was through, the non-english speaking receptionist comes to view what we are doing and stands over us while we book 2 rooms with en-suite showers. As we receive our receipt, he informs us, in french, that the hotel does not operate with key's, instead with codes that are input on a small console by the bedroom door (I know you're think this is a classy place).

We get our bags from the car and head to our rooms looking forward to a relaxing night before we hit the roads again. We type in the code for our first room, open the door, and find that there are someone's bags left on the bed. We go to the second room and more luggage. What would have happened if someone was in these rooms? Somehow, I am voted to go and try to resolve this. I head downstairs to the reception area and try to explain to the recption guy that the rooms are occupied. After a few minutes of failure with my rubbish french, he recognises that there is "bagages dans les chambres". He open's his office and starts to sort out new rooms for us. At this point 2 frenchmen, wearing nothing but tight skimpy underpants, come bounding into reception from outside. They head straight to the dining are shouting that they want champagne. The (also creepy) reception guy tells them to wait their turn while he sorts out my problem. So its 11.30pm and I'm standing in a queue in a remote french hotel with 2 men in just tight pants. Slightly surreal. I finally get sorted and head up to see the other 3 and tell them that we are sorted for new rooms. As I am explaining what had happened, the nearly naked men appear along the corridor , clutching a bottle of Champagne, and knock on a bedroom door. They are joined, from the room, by another tight panted man. At this point we make a beeline for our first room. We are relieved to find it does not contain any luggage or naked french men.

As you can see from the picture above, the room contains many amenities, including a state-of-the-art clothes hanging facility. Me and Nick decide to leave the girls to settle in while we check out our room on the ground floor (le rez-de-chaussée ... my french is getting better). We open our room to find it consists of a double bed, a TV and a toilet. However the toilet is separated from the room by a shower curtain (see picture below)

The girls soon join us and we decide to pool all of our change to get as much beer out of the vending machine as possible to numb the thought of the gay brothel we appeared to be staying in. We all sat down with our cold beers, turned on the TV only to find that was on was either french chatshows or badly dubbed (from english to french) hardcore porn. So the TV was turned off, we quickly finished our beers and attempted to get some sleep.

Day 2 - Sunday 16th July 2006

After getting up early-ish, we leave the wonderful Balladin's hotel (now forever known as Bang-it-in's), and head out to continue our journey to Benicassim. Heading through the French countryside towards Paris we are on continual watch for somewhere to grab a spot of breakfast. This is harder than you think as France appears to shut down on a Sunday. Keeping of the Autoroute we wind through small villages until we reach the cathedral town of Laon. Driving in the town centre we are on the hunt for a food place that is actually open. We pass plenty of closed hairdressers (how many does a small town need?). We finally stumble upon a small row of shops with a pâtisserie/boulangerie that is actually open. Hence we go in and buy the only two items of food that we can remember the french for - croissant and pan au chocolat. As delicious as they were, I could see our breakfasts becoming boring quickly. Not to worry, back on the road towards Paris.

From Laon we head on the N2 to Paris via Soissons. The road is great for a minor road. 2 lanes travelling at 110km/h. Hardly any traffic on the roads. We were making great progress. This came to an abrupt halt when the wonderful dual carriageway ends without warning. It turns out that the road isn't built yet. We are forced onto the old N2 which winds through the hills, fields and villages towards the french capital. It's not long before the road widens again and we are passing Charles de Gaulle Airport, the traffic is increasing, the area is becoming more built up and we can see the Eiffel Tower in the distance.

The easy driving in France was about to end as the car pulled onto the Peripherique. This was a tad scary. Driving on the wrong side of the road with a car that's not designed for it. Thousands of cars packed bumper to bumper, doing speeds of 90km/h plus. There are many exits all seeming to be signposted with the same place names. Cars pulling in and out of the lanes, on and off the slip roads. It was all becoming a bit much considering we weren't quite sure exactly which way to go. We just knew we had to head clockwise, looking for the A10 and signposts for Orleans. After switching lanes more times that I care to think about, we somehow see a sign for our turn off and take it. This is some sort of miracle as Nick's somewhat dodgy map reading skills were put to the test.

South of Paris, the road is straight and simple. Onto the Toll and stick your foot down. We stop off for some food at a service station (ham and cheese baguette - what a surprise), and I finally give in and let Nick drive the next stint despite every bone in my body telling me I shouldn't. My fears were found to be mostly unjustified as he drives the 300+km to our campsite for the night (I did keep having to remind him that his foot wasn't made of lead and could be taken off the accelerator) The journey is quite a pleasant one, passing many orchards, vineyards and huge fields of sunflowers.

It passes without incident and we are soon approaching our exit junction (NB: The toll road ended north of Clermont Ferrand... came to a whopping €38. That will teach us to travel all that way on the Autoroute). For tonight's stopover we had chosen the village of Murol.

Murol is a small village (around 700 people live there) in the heart of le Parc des Volcans (Park of the Volcanoes) overlooking lake Chambon. It's main business appeared to be tourism. To be precise, camping.... french camping. We were the only English probably within a 50 mile radius. After pulling off the Autoroute, we made our way along a windy stretch of road into the Parc des Volcans, through many small villages and towns to get Murol. This was the next village along from the very touristy looking Saint Nectaire. After arriving in Murol we pull up at a campsite, inspect the rates, decide it's good enough. Camping L'€urope is a 4 star campsite popular with families. It has a pool with a slide and a bar area.

So we (Me & Anna) sort out a pitch for the night and we set about getting the tent set up. As the tent nears completion, the heavens open and the rain pours down. We hurry to finish the tent despite a french woman beckoning us into her chalet for shelter. Its only a few minutes before we have a perfectly erected tent. We maybe a ted wet, but this doesn't matter due to the temperatures of the day. Since our bed for the night is set up, we head of for some supplies to the local Spar. Once again, shopping in france show's that it is not cheaper on the continent. All we buy are some extra tent pegs, some crisps and some booze (Heinekin stubbies for me, boxes of wine for everyone else). From the Spar, we head across the carpark to a local bar. Once again, no-one can speak english, so a few choice french words and some pointing later, 3 of us are enjoying a large glass of lager while Nick has a whisky. While we drink, we are entertained by watching a game of boule played by some other patrons.

From the bar we jump into the car and head to the nearby town of Saint Nectaire. This is much more touristy, if not a bit tacky. We park up and head into what appears to be the only restaurant in town. It seemed to be an italian style restaurant (well the menu had pizza and pasta on it). Sat down, we order some beer and rose wine, 3 of us order steak while Kerry has a veggie option. Nick, opting for his steak well done is in for a fright when it arrives. The waiter, who spoke some english, totally misunderstood and Nick's steak is served virtually still mooing at him on the plate, blood squirting out with every slice with his knife. Anyway, my steak was nice and tender (had it medium).

After our meal, it was back to the campsite for a few drinks, french Monster Munch crisps(Pommeheads), banter and then bed. Onto the South of France tomorrow.

Day 3 - Monday 17th July 2006

After a reasonable nights sleep at Camping L'€urope, our first campsite of the trip, we have a cup of coffee made on the camping stove, a shower and start to pack up.

Feeling peckish we head up to the bar area in a hunt for food. Unfortunately, the only food we can see on the menu is either pizza or hamburgers. After a failed attempt of asking for breakfast(in french), we all have a glass of orange juice and sit watching the other campers in and around the pool. When I say watching, this involved the Anna and Kerry pointing out and commenting on/complaining about all of the men around the pool in tight swimming trunks. This doesn't last long (neither did our drinks). We head back to the car, finish packing up, and head on our way. We still have a lot of travelling to do.

We pull out the village but after only a few miles we stop and allow Kerry and Anna to visit La Ferme Saint-Nectaire. This is a farm/breeding centre for kangaroos, llamas and other furry rat type creatures. For 40 minutes they looked around the farm while Nick read his Dave Courtney book and I paced back and forth a lot, and went for a 3 minute run (not sure why... just felt a bit energetic).

We left the farm in the hunt for some food as we were still hungry. First we stop at a supermarket. This contains only some ignorant french people who will not give way to us in the ailse and allow us past. After 5 minutes getting lost, we finally find the exit and get on our way again. The next stop is a bit more successful. We pull over a the village of Champeix, where I do some of my worst parking ever and take up two parking bays and half of the pavement. However when I say successful, I mean for the second day running we get croissants and pan au chocolat from the local pâtisserie/boulangerie. We were starting to get the feeling that this may be our diet for the rest of the time we were going to spend in France.

We finch our pastries and get back onto the road, stopping at a local garage to fill up, and then onto the A75 towards the south coast of France. The scenery on the A75 is beautiful. The road travels through le Parc National des Cévennes, up and down the hills and mountains. At one pont the road is over 1170m above see level. The views across the valleys are spectacular. As the road climb and descend steeply I break Nick's coasting record by doing 4 miles in neutral at speeds of 70mph. I could have gone further but my nerves got the better of me and decided it was better if I had full control of the car. We also see our first rain of the day. High in the mountains the car and road gets drenched. This does not deter the french drivers though. They happily power on at 80+mph (sorry 130+kmph, I forgot France is metric). In the distance we see some impressive forked lightning and wonder if this was going to be set in for the day. However we are proven wrong as the sun comes out and the temperatures start to rise swiftly and we enjoy the eerie sight of the water evaporating from the trees in the valleys to produce rising clouds of steam.

As we travel further the south, the bridges start to become longer and more impressive until we reach the big one... Millau. For a mere €6.80 you can drive across the newly constructed Viaduc de Millau(View the real-time webcam of the bridge here). Before crossing we stopped in the service area. The service area, still under construction, consisted of a stopping point to get a view of the bridge and of the town of Millau, a tourist information office, and couple of blocks of toilets. These toilets were unlike the toilets of good old GB. There were some sort of mutant toilet that appear to involve squatting. We were luck that the disabled toilets had the type of bowl we were used to.

While Nick and Anna have a rest, me and Kerry feel energetic and we climb to the top of a huge steep hill to the view point. The path up to the view point isn't finished and gravel on a hill isn't a good idea. More than once we nearly fell flat of our backs. The steps they have built out of railway sleepers are very steep with no hand rails. Very dangerous. We make it to the top, take a couple of pictures, see an eagle (or what looks like an eagle) and head back down to ground level, and set off across the bridge towards the southern coast.

Heading down through the mountains, we play a game of "Holding Your Breath While Travelling Through A Tunnel", which is immense fun unless you're driving and going dizzy through lack of oxygen. We leave the M75 near Montpellier and park up on a retail park outside of a DIY store in order to consult the camping books for a place to stay the night. As we sit, we get a few funny looks from people who we assume are wondering why a car fully of englishmen (and englishwomen) are sitting in a DIY store carpark in southern France. Just as one of comments that there are probably no other British people anywhere near this place, a car with the GB stick pulls past in the carpark and gives us a wave. We decide that tonight we will stay in the seaside resort of Valras-Plage and head off in that direction.

The map informs us that to get to Valras Plage we should head towards the town of Béziers and then head south to the coast. We get back onto the A75 and subsequently onto the N9, which takes along side hundreds of vinyards and through some small quaint villages. Once again, things do not run smoothly and before long we find ourselfs lost in the town centre of Béziers. As we entre the town centre we notice a sign pointing out tha Béziers is twinned with Stockport in England. For some reason we find this fact very funny. After 15 or so minutes of going round in circles we backtrack and head toward the A9 Autoroute. This causes a problem as we get stuck in rushhour traffic. As we crawl our way through the melee of cars, we notice a sign for Valras-Plage and head straight for it. This is a relief for Anna, who had been sitting cross legged in the back of the car for the best part of 30 mins. Once onto the Valras-Plage road the traffic eases and we pull into a McDonalds so that Anna can use the faclities. After much debate, we decide not to follow her inside the restaurant for something to eat, instead we choose to plough on to our destination.

The camping guide book we have suggests we go to the Camping Club Lou Village(check out the Aquatic Park section of the site... the animations are scary). The book's direction informed us to head into the town centre and follow signs for the Casino. Once again we get lost and end up on the beach front, surrounded by thousands of cars parked almost completely on the pavement. Heading along the sea front, we finally see a sign for the Casino and head in it's direction. After another 5 mins heading through local housing estates we finally stumble across it. It is situated in an area which contains nothing but campsites. We head to the entrance of Lou Village and check out the tarrif. This place appears around twices the price we paid last night, so we try a different place, Campling le Mediterranee. The prices are reasonable so we agree to stay here. To stay on the campsite we all were fitted with a festival style wristband and the car had a ugly sticker slapped onto the windscreen. We pitched our tent and headed off to explore and have something to eat.

We head down to the sea front and walk along the beach. Everyone except me takes their shoes of and walk in the water, while I keep mine on and have fun dodging the waves. As we walk along Nick decides to count the number of women with no bikini tops on. This keeps him amused all along the beach.

We head up to the prominade in search of restaurants and notice a car rammed with inflatable creatures(see below).

After stopping to look, we continue our hike to the town centre. We arrive and are spoilled for choice as there are hundreds of restaurants, but they all seem to have the same things to offer, and no vegitarian option. We finally choose a restaurant overlooking the sea, even if it has a rather racist and stereotypical statue of a black boy. I order a steak, Nick has turkey, Kerry has something veggie (can't remeber what) and Anna opts for a bucket of mussels. Of course, this is all washed down with some rosé wine.

After a delicious meal we go for a wander around the busy streets and along the sea front. Kerry buys some postcard in a shop (but never sends them home), and Nick is tempted by a large steel Jack Daniels sign. It's then on to the fun-fair where the is a car covered in fridge magnets, some dodgy looking rides, some arcade machines (including a punch bag game flanked by some muscley looking guys just dying to be challenged by someone, just to show how strong they were) and some grabber machines. We have a couple of goes on the grabbers and we head off looking for somewhere to get drunk.

Do the French not drink? We wander for ages in persuit of a bar without luck. We eventually find one opposite the Casino and another fun-fair. It is run by a man who, once again, cannot speak english. We manage to order some large beers and some rosé for Anna and settle in for night of drinking. Anna asks where the toilet is and leaves to use the facilities. On her return, the guy ushers her behind the bar to use the sink to wash her hands. She informs us that the toilet looks like a walk in freezer complete with bizzar fride style handles on the door.

Anna and Kerry decide they're a bit board, so cross the road and try their luck at the grabber machines again. This timethey are successful (because they cheated and nudged the machine), and win a cuddly toy of Spongebob Squarepants. They are a bit overwelmed by the round of applause they recieve from a group of french people standing at the machine beside them.

As we continue drinking and put the world to rights about who would be the members of our ultimate British band, we are soon shocked to find that the guy that running the bar's 8 or 9 year old daughter is helping out in the bar, pouring and serving alcoholic drinks. Around 2am she begins to pack up all of the chairs and tables from the outside seating area. Feeling sorry for her, Anna and Kerry set about helping her pack up, which receives looks of disgust from the other people in the bar. When it comes to leaving, we request our bill and receive a discount for Kerry and Anna's efforts. We pay, leaving a tip for the girl, and make our way on our marathon journey back to the campsite. On our journey home, Nick keeps us entertained with his impersonations of the Kings of Leon, which were amusing, if not rubbish. We arrive back at the tent around 3.30am, have a couple of drinks and then head to bed, as tomorrow is the final push to Benicassim.

Day 4 - Tuesday 18th July 2006

We wake up on day 4, get washed and pack up our stuff. Nick offers to drive as I'm feeling rough (nothing to do with the drink consumed last night - I blame lack of a propper night's sleep) and we head into the centre of town to grab some breakfast. We all opt for omlettes, either plain, cheese, ham or cheese and ham (cheese and ham... haven't had that before this holiday). The food's not bad, we finish up and hit the road. Next stop, Spain.

We head along the coast on the A9, down through Perpignan, up through the hills and mountains towards the border. As with our passage into France, we are once again shocked to be waved through without being asked to produce our passports. If anyone from the Daily Mail is reading this, you may have been right all along (we actually you haven't but you'll have to wait until you read day 14 to find that out).

Driving in Spain is a lot like driving in France except the speed limits are lower and the petrol costs less. It's also a bit surreal on occasion when you suddenly realise that you are driving your car that a week ago was trundling around the centre of Sunderland is now driving in the Costa Brava and will be passing Salou later today.

The drive is pretty uneventful until we reach the outskirts of Barcelona. I've never been to Barcelona, but I have heard it's quite a picturesque city, but from the road, it appears to be an industrial dump with its skyline dominated my large ugly production/refining plants with large poluting chimneys. But many cities have industrial zones on their outskirts, so I cannot judge it on that merrit alone. I can however judge the roads that pass by the Catalan city. They are just crazy. Large lorrys travel at 70mph and switch from one lane to the next like it's going out of fashion. Their stability at those speeds was made worse with strong cross winds to dangerous levels. It got to the point where Nick had my blessing to put his big heavy lead foot onto the accerator and not stop until we were out of the mayhem. Even the 90+mph speeds that we were doing did not phase me as we hurtled past the wobbly wagons. After around 15 mins the traffic subsided and it was back to normal cruising speed toward Benicassim.

We make good time and its not long before we pass the turnings for Salou and the Port Advenure theme park, and decide to stop at the services for a fill-up... water for us, petrol for the car. On leaving the service station shop, me and Nick are approached by two young females who asked if we speak english. By their accents they sound like they are from Eastern Europe. They ask if we have room in our car to give them a lift to Alicante as their car has broken down. We can see a car a few rows away with the bonnet up and some largish men looking at the engine. We politely say we haven't as they start to get worried as the notice Kerry and Anna appear behind us and we hop into our car and head to the garage for petrol (NB: A good 35 cents cheaper than France). If they were worried about approaching us when they saw the girls, how whould their large "friends" have reacted if we had said "hop in baby"?

Back on the road we finally reach our turn off. We exit via the toll booths and turn onto the local roads. Suddenly all signs for Benicassim are gone. We have no idea where to head so we start to drive arround a sea-side resort that we think could be Benicassim. Its seems very nice (and posh... there were 5 star hotels) but not like it would host a festival. It turns out that we have been driving around Oropesa del Mar for the last 45 minutes. So we leave the town and spot a signpost for Benicassim. We follow the road and turn off at the next junction. This takes us down a steep winding road towards the sea. After what seems like an eternity, we finally round a corner and see Benicassim in all it's glory in front of us.

Our jubilation, however, was short lived. Where on earth was the campsite? Once again the lack of signposts began to frustrate us. For the next 3 HOURS we drive around the whole of Benicassim, search in vain for the elusive Bonet campsite. It all starts to get a bit much, so we decide that calling at the supermarket for our supplies would be the best option. Once in there we spot some festival types and ask them if they knew where Bonet was. Result! It turns out to be just along the road. We hurridly gather up our shopping, pile it on top of the girls in the back of the car and set off to find it.

Pulling up to the entrance of the campsite in the car we think our jouney is finally at an end - WRONG! The very rude security guard can only grunt the words "No coche" before moving a iron railing in the way to stop us from entering the campsite. This forces us to rejoin a major road and we have to travel another 5 miles back to Benicassim's main street. As we pull up on the main street, I jump out of the car and ask a policeman where to park. He's not very helpful but I say thank you anyway and go to rejoin the others. By this time Nick had pulled into the town centre car park which was blocked off by bollards, hence my asking the policemen where abouts to park. We decide to cut our losses and park here. We load ourselves up with tents and head off to the campsite.

At the campsite we get our wristband from the main desk and start to look for somewhere to pitch up. This becomes a prolem as there is nowhere to pitch a tent. We start to parade up and down the walkways, but there is simply no room. We ask a security guard if he knows if there is any room to which he replies that there is none. Then when asked if the other campsites (Camp Fib and Mercat) were open, he tells us that they wouldn't be open until later in the week.

This is a disater. We have travelled 1500 miles and we have nowhere to camp. Fortuately, by luck, we stumble across a small space next to the shower block. It's not big enough for the large tent but if we position correctly we can fit the two small tents. Within minutes our tents are erected. Not that we can relax just yet. We still have the mountains of stuff back at the car to bring to the campsite.

Sometime later we can finally relax. We break open the beer and apple schnapps and have a good old drink. After a beverage or two, Nick finds that he has ran out of cigarettes. This calls for a wander into town. En route we pass three naked english guys walking back to Bonet campsite. Very surreal at 3 in the morning. They did get a compliment from Nick. When I say compliment, I mean he said "nice length" as we passed by. We reach the main street but everywhere is closed (well it was 3 in the morning after all). We bump into some spanish girls as I get directions, in spanish, to a back street bar where we can buy the cigarettes from a vending machine to quench Nick's nicotine craving.

Loaded with cancer-sticks we head back to the campsite for more drink. Unfortuately my memory of what happened next is hazy as the strains of the day and the alcohol take hold. I fall asleep while drinking in my chair. Nick assures me I was trying to stay awake and proving it by still drinking with my eye shut, but as I say, it's all a bit of a blur.

Day 5 - Wednesday 19th July 2006

Wednesday starts with a unwelcome awakening. The sun had hit the side of the tent turning it into a sauna

Benicassim 2006 .... Blog coming soon (honest)

2006-08-14T18:30:00.000Z

I'm currently working on my Blog for the roadtrip to Benicassim 2006.
It's taking far longer than I thought due to other commitments and the fact I'm writing far too much for each day's events. Oh well, I might have it published by the time Benicassim 2007 is on.

In the meantime, check out the photos by clicking here or the photo below.

Campervan Update

2006-06-26T20:36:00.000Z

Well the VW Campervan is coming on leaps and bounds. Fingers crossed it should be ready within the next few days. Spain here we come!!!!

The fancy numberplate has been fitted.
It still requires the rear bumper to be attached though.

View from the front. Needs a bit of a clean.... and a front bumper.... and some windscreen wipers.

The comfy rear seat. Also a lovely looking sink.

We even have a fridge!!

H-tonia 8 - 10 Young Guns

2006-06-04T15:44:00.000Z

H'tonia suffered a narrow defeat to the hands of a youthful opposition. Despite having an extra man and the inclusion of a player on loan from Bath, the excesses of the previous day took their toll. Despite some good individual performances, a mixture of heat and hangovers cost H'tonia the match and ended their unbeaten run. Dave Cummings, team bus driver said, "The lack of sleep and age of the players showed against a team of youngsters. With a strict diet and training schedule we'll be ready for the next game.

Next week's match has been postponed due to players being called up for festival duty.

Sunderland 3 - 10 H-Ton

2006-05-21T14:27:00.000Z

Sunderland suffered a heavy defeat to the hands of a rampant team from H-tonia. An early period of stalemate with teams at 4-a-side was broken by a scrambled goal from Mr Sprout. SWA soon joined the game playing for the Sunderland team. More players turned up and we had ourselves a game - 7-a-side - Sunderland vs H-ton.
Early dominance by H-ton meant at the half time mark the score was 5-1 in their favour. Soon the weather changed and in some wet conditions H-ton extended their to 9-1 despite the best efforts of wonder keeper Gofton.
Sunderland then rallied themselves for a Teen-Wolf style comeback. They turned up their game and scored 2 well worked goals. However this was to no avail. A scramble in the Sunderland goal mouth resulted in a weak goal being scored and H-ton won the match.

A rematch is being scheduled for either Saturday 27th or Sunday 28th May.

Radio One's Big Weekend 2006 - Dundee

2006-05-21T10:02:00.000Z

Well its been a week since I was there so I think its about time I posted something about it.

Anyway, I managed to get a pair of tickets for the Radio One's Big Weekend for the Saturday.
We set off at 7.30am for the 4 hour trip to Dundee.

Here's a pointless picture of the Forth Bridge to show we crossed it

So we got there about 12 and dumped our stuff at a very nice B&B - Invermark

After an ill fated bus journey around Dundee (the driver lied about the bus route), we ended up getting a taxi from the local hospital (it was one of the stops, not that we ended up in hospital) to Camperdown Park

We got the beers in

... and settled in to watch all the acts.

Muse, Snow Patrol, Boy Kill Boy, Razorlight and Dirty Pretty things were all very good. Everyone else play good sets (even Gnarls Barkley).

So the gig ended and we went for more beer around Broughty Ferry - The Post Office and Jolly's

We think we had a good night....

The next morning we were up bright and early and headed down to the beach where we took these lovely photos

Then we set off home

On the way back we did call via Duns to see the castle as it's the venue for Dave's planned nuptials. Its very nice as you can see.

Double Troutmaster

2006-05-16T19:25:00.000Z

Well, he's done it again.
Troutmaster again.
Come on Paul... give someone else a chance

Harton Hotshots

2006-05-02T21:38:00.000Z

Just a quick note that I'm helping out on another bog site.
Its for a local junior football team - Harton Hotshots.

If you're interested, you can check it out at www.hartonhotshots.blogspot.com

It will also have its own permanent space in the links menu.

Gourmet Pancakes

2006-04-22T11:41:00.000Z

Here is a video clip of the very delicious gourmet held by our wonderful hosts Law & Helen. Enjoy the skillful pancake fliping by Law and the not-so skillful flipping by resident ninja Wilson.

Paul Moore - Troutmaster

2006-04-18T18:17:00.000Z

Congratulations to H-tonia's own Mr Paul Moore who has caught something with a Black Zonker. That's not some sort of nasty disease but in fact a fish lure of some sort.
Anyway, a big Woo Yay to him.
Click on the picture or here for full article

Edit: He also has reached the heady heights of the local newspaper... here's the proof

Another Football Video

2006-04-16T16:03:00.000Z

Since I've no real ideas yet or haven't done anything of note to put on this site I'm just going to add another video. This one is of a game of crossbar challenge.
Anyway here it is

Edit: Update stream so this should play much better than before.

FALL OUT BOY - Sugar, We're Going Down

2006-04-16T11:13:00.000Z

Found this and decided I had to add it to my blog, just cos it's Fall Out Boy.
I'm sure we'll kill this song soon

Easter Sunday

2006-04-16T10:35:00.000Z

Well its Easter Sunday and I'm feeling remarkably okay considering it was after 1am when I left the Caroline this morning (see post below for directions).
Anyway I'm feeling far too energetic but rather than do any exercise I thought I'd upload a video of some fools playing a bit football.

Movie 1:
A game of "get the ball through the bit of fence whilst trying not to spill your beer"

You'll agree not the longest or greatest video, but I've uplaoded it because I can.

Second Attempt at Google Maps

2006-04-13T12:08:00.000Z

It works.... at last
You should be able to investigate all the places of interest in the greater H-Tonia area.
Let me know via the comments button what points you would like adding to the map.

map loading...

Google Maps Test

2006-04-12T17:22:00.000Z

Sorry again. This post is only to test out more stuff.
This time its putting a Google Map into a post.
Hopefully it will work.

I'm hoping to use this when I do my account of my road trip to the Benicàssim festival in Spain.

As you can see its a map of H-Tonia with 3 points listed. It should display a info bubble when you click on that marker but I'm haveing problems getting the info bubble to point to the correct marker
Anyway.... on with the testing

TEST REMOVED

A bit of a website test....

2006-04-11T18:22:00.000Z

Sorry... just seeing what I can do on this site.
Need to find out what things work and what things fall flat on their arse.

I'll come up with something a bit better in the future if I can learn some html (or be bothered to)

So, as a tester, have the video for You're Not Supposed by Field Music, which has Swa, Sarah & Jaff in it. (This was easy to put in.... good old copy and paste)

My first blog ...... be gentle

2006-04-10T19:15:00.000Z

Well I thought it was about time that I created a blog to pointlessly comment about stuff that most people (if not everyone) will not be interested in.

Anyway..... I may update this from time to time but I probably give it up as a bad job in 2 weeks when I forget to ever post anything again.

Feel free to comment and such

Mr Sprout