knowlefootballclub

Ladies slip to narrow cup final defeat against Walsall Women

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 20:47:48 GMT

George Revell reports live from WS1 for the second night running...

Knowle Ladies slipped to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Walsall Women in the Birmingham County FA Challenge Cup final at the Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium on Tuesday night.

A solitary first-half strike from Lyndsey Ross was enough to settle the contest on a night where Knowle's best period of play came in the first 25 minutes after half-time.

While much of the attention has been focused on the men's record-breaking campaign - and the club's centenary year - Knowle Ladies are closing in on a special one themselves. Celebrating their Silver Jubilee season, Ryan Mountford's side sit three points clear at the top of West Midlands Division One South and need just one point from their remaining three matches to mathematically secure the title.

Walsall - who entertained 601 Saddlers fans at the Bescot only two weeks prior - are rooted to second place in Division One North, but were quietly confident ahead of the encounter, according to Head Coach Matt Willis' pre-match press conference.

In the opening exchanges, it was clear to see that Walsall carried a greater physical presence and they carved out their first opportunity 14 minutes into the final.

Robins stopper Sophie Henness, often dominant in one-v-ones, did well to deny threatening forward Sophie Rowlands before the goalkeeper made light work of the right-wing cross that followed.

Henness produced a magnificent double save to deny Amy Rollason and Olivia Corns eight minutes later. She parried Rollason's powerful effort before getting in the way of Corns' follow-up.

Walsall looked far the better team first half and duly found the opener through Ross midway through the period. Left-winger Ross nicked the ball and neatly curled into the top-right corner from 15 yards.

North versus South was always going to be an intriguing cup final, and Knowle thought they had found a leveller 10 minutes before half-time. Top scorer Trina Greaves played Darcey Garner down the right flank before the latter pulled back for Holly Briggs to shoot. Saddlers stopper Olivia Wells made the save before Grace Evans found the bottom-left corner, but it was to no avail because the assistant referee's flag was raised for offside.

Knowle had a point to prove after Walsall ended the first half with a deserved one-goal lead, and they did indeed improve. They created their first meaningful opportunity of the second half seven minutes after the restart when Greaves slipped a ball through for Garner, but her effort was well blocked.

The Robins were experiencing a bit of joy down their right side at this point and Garner - in her second senior season at just 17 years of age - soon skinned Freya Nixon before whistling a shot narrowly over the crossbar.

Garner was again involved with 23 minutes to play, whipping a wicked cross towards the back post that Greaves could only stab over the upright from close range.

Robins boss Mountford introduced physical striker Nicole Jakeways in an attempt to beef up his attack for the last seven minutes, and Briggs made way for Sam Smith in stoppage-time, but Walsall kept the intensity high to secure the trophy at the stadium they love playing at so dearly.

Walsall were the ones to celebrate at full-time, but Knowle should hold their heads high because they are still in pole position to secure promotion back to the Premier Division at the first attempt.

Knowle complete league and cup double with cup final triumph over Smethwick Rangers

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:51:32 GMT

George Revell reports from the press box in Walsall...

Knowle completed their league and cup double by lifting the Midweek Floodlit Cup after beating Smethwick Rangers 3-0 at the Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium.

Just nine days on from their title-winning party following their final league match, the Robins got their hands on another piece of silverware to put the gloss - if enough wasn’t there already - on a simply astonishing campaign.

First-half goals from Talib Copeland and Brady Floyd ensured Knowle’s league and cup double, and made it a night to remember for everyone connected with the club.

Connor Mort was shown a second yellow card in stoppage-time, but substitute Leo Henderson added a third with the last kick of the game to rubber-stamp the win once and for all.

Having scored eight and conceded none in their two league meetings with Rangers this term, Knowle came into the contest with plenty of confidence and had their first sight of goal in the fifth minute when top scorer Copeland dragged a shot narrowly wide of the left-hand post after Dylon Daniels found him with a cut-back from the right.

Buoyed by their recent survival in MFL Division One, Rangers had a double chance of their own three minutes later. Charlie Manners forced Robins stopper Matt Horton into a good save before the follow up was cleared off the goal-line.

Rangers worried Knowle once more when Joe Haines whistled over the bar from range after driving forward from the half-way line.

The Robins responded almost immediately, Rangers goalkeeper Jonathan Brown doing well to deny Hayden Purves at his near post.

Knowle found the opener just before the half-hour following Mort's wicked delivery from the right. Brown parried Copeland’s initial header but the imposing winger reacted quickest to find the top-left corner at the second attempt.

Little of note happened in the 15 minutes after that, but good work from Frankie Ealing crafted a half-chance for Rangers as the interval approached.The right-winger raced beyond Anton Powell before pulling back for Manners to head a tame effort into Horton’s hands.

Knowle added a second in the first half’s final action and Horton was to thank. Copeland smartly flicked the goalkeeper’s raking ball into the path of Floyd, who found the net with confidence to go in at half-time with a commanding lead.

Neither side really threatened the opposition’s goal in the first 20 minutes after the break. Rangers saw a chance slip by after a game of head tennis in the penalty area before Floyd volleyed over from distance just before the hour.

That was Floyd’s last action. Odane Barnes was introduced in his place to beef up Knowle’s attack.

And a chance followed. Copeland ignored Mort’s overlapping run and fired a shot at goal, before Daniels met the recycled ball. The midfielder would have seen his 20-yarder hit the top corner had it not been for Brown’s quick intervention.

The game was end-to-end by this point and Rangers had the next opportunity. They played through the thirds swiftly but substitute Leo Henderson couldn’t shoot with the power required to beat Horton and find the bottom-right corner.

With less than a minute to play, Knowle could have added a third. The ball dropped invitingly for Corry in the box but he couldn’t quite find the bottom-left corner.

Rangers had a chance for a consolation 30 seconds later. A teasing through ball found substitute Tyler Wilson and his powerful strike deflected off of Horton and onto the crossbar.

Many of the record 21 consecutive victories Knowle recorded earlier in the campaign were secured in dominant fashion , and Knowle scored again with the final kick of the game. Henderson latched onto a hopeful clearance and lobbed the onrushing Brown.

The celebrations when Knowle centre-staged their never-say-die attitude to ensure back-to-back promotions with a dramatic 3-1 victory on the road at Ingles less than two weeks ago were certainly to savour - as they were when the league season concluded with an identical home win over Saffron Dynamo the following Saturday.

But it felt even more real when the full-time whistle sounded at the Bescot. The emotions spilled over on the pitch and in the stands before captain George Seeley lifted the trophy aloft.

Knowle knew they were never, ever going to forget this year.

Cup Final Details

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:08:27 GMT

Two days, two big finals, one venue!

In Knowle FC’s historic centenary year, we are blessed to have two great senior teams who will be playing in their cup finals within 24 hours of each other at the Bescot Stadium, home of Walsall FC!

Please join us and make it the Robins’ Nest for two days and cheer the teams on to what we hope will be two trophy celebrations!

Tickets

Tickets are £7 for adults & over 17s, and £3 concessions & u17s. Please buy directly from Walsall via eTicketing using the links below (choose your link carefully!):

•⁠ ⁠Men’s Midweek Floodl it Cup - https://buff.ly/bTH6Fl3

•⁠ ⁠⁠Women’s Challenge Final - https://buff.ly/p2wRSiU

Coach Travel

We are also arranging optional coach travel from the club leaving Knowle FC on both days at 18:10 to arrive at 19:00, return 22:00 to get back to Hampton Rd circa 22:50. You can buy tickets for the coach travel below for £10 per seat. IMPORTANT - Please include your name and phone number in the description so you can be identified as the buyer! (Choose your link carefully!).

- Men’s Midweek Floodlit Cu p - https://bit.ly/KFCMensCoach

- Women’s Challenge Final - https://bit.ly/kfcladiesfinal

The number of tickets you are allocated will be governed by the amount you pay - e.g. £20 means two seats. Please buy early to avoid disappointment as there will be a limited number of seats for each game.

Footnote - Please do not be surprised that you are being redirected to personal payments to David Tomkins. We are using Starling & Monzo payments to David’s account to avoid service fees on payments. Please contact David on me@davidtomkins.co.uk if you have any problems or fear you have made an error.

CHAMPIONS!

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:57:48 GMT

Knowle seal title and back-to-back promotions with dramatic late victory

14th April 2026: Ingles 1-3 Knowle FC

George Revell reports on a historic night for the club…

Knowle were crowned league champions as they battled to a dramatic 3-1 victory on the road at Ingles to seal back-to-back promotions in their historic centenary year.

Ingles looked set to put Knowle’s promotion party on ice for a few days longer when Charlie Yates gave them the lead two minutes after half-time.

But Knowle showed immense character and staged a late fight-back with three goals of their own in the final 10 minutes to spark joyous scenes on the touchline.

Top scorer Talib Copeland turned the game on its head with a brace, and an absolute belter from Robins skipper George Seeley made certain of their title credentials in stoppage time before the champagne bottle was opened.

Knowle have run themselves into the ground across five matches in 11 days, so this was never going to be a walk in the park, but their supporters travelled in numbers with a historic night in the offing. They pushed their side to the maximum as they battled their way through a cagey opening 15 minutes.

The first half-chance came when Knowle danger-man Copeland showcased his superb skill. After skipping past three players with ease, Copeland teed up Dylan Daniels to try his luck from 25 yards. Daniels’ left-footed low drive drifted just wide of the bottom-right corner.

Odane Barnes came within inches of the opener 20 minutes in. Toby Scott whipped a left-wing free-kick into the six-yard box and Barnes’ header wasn’t far from the top-right corner.

The imposing forward went down holding his head after being clattered to the ground by Oisin Nicks and Ingles captain Billy Blackshaw on the half-hour mark, causing a break in play which the hosts weren’t best pleased about.

Barnes was given licence to continue after a four-minute stoppage before Copeland completely cleared the clubhouse with a shot from the edge of the box that might have been too high for a rugby post.

Knowle continued to dominate possession, and half-time came before Ingles could properly worry stand-in Robins stopper Shaune Allen.

Ingles took the lead two minutes after the restart though, and it was all of Allen’s doing.

The emergency loanee miscued a clearance, and Yates raced towards the bouncing ball after heading it back forward himself. Allen was way off his line and should have rushed back, which would have given Flynn Powell space to clear, but he instead tried - and failed - to head it away himself.

In doing so, he allowed Yates a free shot at an empty from 25 yards, and the hungry attacker wasn’t going to let a chance like that slip by. His half-volley looped impressively into the top-left corner.

Knowle were up against it at this point, playing against a slight slope on the bobbly pitch, and struggled to really make anything happen - despite still having plenty of the ball in the final third.

Seeley and Hayden Purves were introduced shortly after the hour in place of Barnes and Daniels in an attempt to frustrate an Ingles side coping with the league leaders’ pressure.

Ingles forward Louis Hunter should have done better than fire four yards wide of the right-hand post when he stood over a free-kick while the hosts were pushing to double their lead, but Knowle weren’t complaining.

With time running out, Knowle were huffing and puffing but couldn’t create the one chance they needed.

Then came the goal Knowle so desperately craved.

Syrus Warren-Paul darted past two defenders before driving a low effort towards the bottom-right corner. The ball cannoned back off the foot of the post before dropping kindly for Copeland, who headed into an open net.

A few nerve-filled minutes followed - with Ingles looking more likely to score - but Knowle held firm, and Copeland slotted home his 26th goal of the season with four minutes to play.

Substitute Purves drove to the byline on the right wing before flashing a low ball back across the box for Copeland to side-foot past Ingles stopper George Baker and into the bottom-left corner.

It was already party time on the touchline, but Seeley still had time to add a third with an absolute pearler when the ball fell to his feet 25 yards from goal seven minutes into stoppage time.

As the final whistle approached, emotions spilled over on the touchline, Matt Seeley personally thanking staff and all those behind the scenes who have helped this dream become reality - a reflection of just how much this moment means to everyone connected with the club.

The pitch flooded with celebrating players and staff, the champagne was out and ‘Robins All Over The World’ could be heard from far, far away.

A side who were hotly tipped for relegation before a ball had been kicked, Knowle have defied all the odds throughout this record-breaking campaign and ultimately earned promotion to Step Five for the first time in the club’s history - as champions.

What a team. What a club. What a family.

This is Knowle Football Club - and this journey is only just beginning.

100 Up...Second Half Rout Sees Off Stapenhill

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:20:33 GMT

11th April 2026: Knowle FC 7-0 Stapenhill

George Revell reports as Knowle secure their second biggest win of the season to start their title celebrations early…

Knowle scored a magnificent seven second-half goals to move within a single point of the league title as they routed Stapenhill 7-0 at the Draintech Community Stadium.

Brady Floyd’s first hat-trick for the club, a double from top scorer Talib Copeland, plus further goals from Zak Parsons and MD Shimul helped Knowle reach the 100-point mark and put one hand on the trophy after a first half where neither side took advantage of the chances that they had.

The title can’t yet be mathematically awarded, but the Robins sit three points above second-placed Gornal Athletic with a game in hand and a far superior goal difference. To illustrate just how close they are, Knowle would have to lose both of their remaining matches, Gornal would have to win theirs, and the 14-goal swing would also need to be overturned for the title to slip away.

Knowle started the brighter and had a golden chance to take the lead nine minutes in when Floyd made an intelligent dash towards goal.

He exposed visiting defender Cade Chadwick’s lack of pace and raced onto a hopeful ball forward before squaring to Copeland. The imposing forward could only toe-poke wide of the left-hand post from six yards and was visibly frustrated with himself afterwards.

Knowle worked Swans stopper Paul Hollis for the first time when Connor Mort whipped in a right-wing cross from deep six minutes later. Floyd met Mort’s fierce delivery and Hollis did well to tip the striker’s goal-bound header out of harm’s way.

Much of the following period was played in Knowle’s final third, and they came close to the breakthrough after another one of Mort’s threatening crosses led to Hayden Purves firing just too high on the half-hour mark. Right-winger Purves brought the ball down well and set himself before narrowly clearing the crossbar with a powerful effort from eight yards out.

Swans defender Niall Dawkins very nearly caught everyone in attendance - not least Knowle goalkeeper Shaune Allen - by surprise six minutes before half-time.

Dawkins - 35 yards from goal - noticed Allen marginally off his line after latching onto Harrison Bruce’s flick-on following a goal-kick, and decided to pull the trigger. Had Dawkins been five yards further back, his audacious lob might have just snuck in. Allen was well beaten and could do nothing but watch.

Aside from those few nail-biting milliseconds, the Swans didn’t really trouble Knowle. They were, however - by the skin of their teeth - just about on course for a gritty draw that they would have been more than happy with.

But that was all about to change.

After the relentless hail had stormed the pitch during the half-time break, Knowle played with intent from the get-go and broke the deadlock via a back-post header within five minutes of the restart.

Purves’ wicked left-wing corner was met by Floyd, who rose highest to guide past the helpless Hollis and into the top-right corner from close range.

Six minutes later, it was two. Mort’s sublime 50-yard through ball over the top caught the Swans’ back-line cold and, to rub salt into their wounds, Copeland effortlessly plucked the ball from the sky and calmly slotted through the legs of Hollis.

Knowle were in their groove by this point and had a third through an absolute peach from Floyd after some tidy link-up play on the hour.

He skipped past Swans left-back Ollie Potts and played a neat one-two with George Seeley on the right edge of the penalty area before unleashing an absolute belter into the top-left corner for his second of the afternoon.

That left the Swans stunned, but those of a Knowle persuasion were even more stunned when Harry Griffiths wasn’t shown a red card for a cynical foul on Parsons. The young midfielder went in late on Parsons, who was driving towards the penalty area.

Parsons’ smile soon returned when he perfectly curled the resulting free-kick around the wall and into the top-left corner. Knowle were delighted and Griffiths had egg on his face.

Knowle had their fifth and Floyd his third 90 seconds later. Copeland’s teasing through ball evaded two onrushing defenders and Floyd squirmed his way to the edge of the six-yard box to poke past Hollis for his hat-trick.

Five-nil up and cruising, Knowle were having fun in the sun - after a remarkable change in weather - and joint-managers Matt and Clive Seeley could make changes after a demanding four-match Easter week. Mort, Purves and hat-trick hero Floyd all made way for Owain Taylor, Shimul and Josh Parsons.

The scoreline didn’t stop Knowle from playing their relentless style of football and they found the net again with 15 minutes to play after some neat footwork from Copeland on the left-wing.

He collected Zak Parsons’ lofted ball and danced past Swans substitute Liam O’Brien before staying composed to beat Hollis one-on-one and guide his finish into the bottom-right corner.

Zak Parsons got into the thick of the action himself when he raced beyond the Swans’ back-line. With Shimul free to his left, he opted to shoot himself but saw his effort well saved by Hollis.

Knowle put further gloss on a near-perfect second half by scoring a seventh in the 81st minute, Shimul prodding home left-footed from five yards after expertly reading a bouncing ball.

There were whispers of Knowle matching - or even beating - their record 9-0 win against Allexton and New Parks back in December, but they eventually settled for their second biggest win of the season and were cheered off the pitch by a bumper crowd after a team huddle.

Knowle can officially win the league on Tuesday night by avoiding defeat at 11th-placed Ingles.

All that remains now is to truly get the promotion bus rolling.

Touching Distance of the Title After Battling Draw at Gornal

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:17:58 GMT

9th April 2026: Gornal Athletic 2-2 Knowle FC

George Revell reports as Knowle move to the brink of the league title…

Odane Barnes scored a dramatic 98th-minute equaliser as battling Knowle staged a superb second-half fight-back to secure a valiant point in a pulsating 2-2 draw on the road at title rivals Gornal Athletic.

It looked as though Knowle were down and out of their crunch clash at Garden Walk as first-half goals from Jamie Beddall and Taylor Homer left the Robins with a mountain to climb after the break.

But their never-say-die attitude shone through and Barnes struck twice to not only deny the hosts three points that would have kept them in the title conversation, but also put Knowle on the brink of silverware and back-to-back promotions in their centenary year.

Gornal have proven tricky customers for Knowle this season and took the lead inside two minutes through a bullet header from right-back Beddall after a second successive corner.

Stand-in Robins stopper Shaune Allen did well to tip Homer’s right-wing corner out of harm’s way, but Gornal’s set piece specialist ran straight over to the other side and whipped one in for Beddall to power in from close range.

The home side - knowing only a victory would leave them with any realistic chance of winning the title - put all sorts of pressure on Knowle in the opening 10 minutes, and might have doubled their lead had the league’s leading goal-scorer Travaey Wright not miscued his header following Taylor Townsend’s right-wing cross.

Talib Copeland, Knowle’s top scorer, has caused opposing wingers all kinds of problems this season and drew a shirt-pull which put Beddall’s name in the referee’s book after 16 minutes. In search of his 23rd goal of this record-breaking campaign, Copeland curled the resulting free-kick just past the left-hand post.

The imposing forward was instrumental in creating a huge opportunity for Knowle to draw level midway through the first half. Roaming on the right flank this time, his physicality was too much for Gornal’s left-siders Jake Short and Brad Ward. The latter bundled him to the ground inside the box and a spot-kick was awarded.

Connor Mort stepped up in front of the jeering Gornal support, but his strong effort was well saved by the left hand of home goalkeeper Reece Francis.

Gornal had a spot-kick themselves 11 minutes later when Ricardo Dudley inadvertently cleared Mitch Botfield’s goal-bound header off the line with his hand at the back post.

The incident was deemed accidental so Dudley didn’t receive further punishment, but Homer did find the bottom-left corner with his penalty despite Allen going the right way.

Knowle played through Gornal’s midfield and carved out a chance to halve the deficit with a minute of the first half remaining. Copeland played George Seeley through and the skipper forced a good save from his Gornal counterpart Francis from a tight angle on his weaker right foot.

Knowle came out strong after half-time and pulled one back within eight minutes of the restart. Another free-kick from a dangerous area deflected kindly off the Gornal wall and Barnes bundled in from close range.

Then came a worrying moment for Anton Powell. The left-back stayed down after lunging in on Gornal right-back Short and was eventually replaced by Syrus Warren-Paul after receiving on-field treatment for over six minutes.

Gornal’s first real chance of the second half came via a set piece after the hour. Botfield flicked on Short’s long throw-in and the ball fell invitingly for Ward to whistle an effort just over the bar from 20 yards out.

That was a bigger chance than it felt like - and a big let-off for Knowle, who couldn’t concede the next goal.

Jack Duggan then used all of his experience to calmly head back to Allen under the pressure of Botfield when the forward would have otherwise had a one-on-one chance.

A slip from Warren-Paul allowed Wright into the box for a chance that ultimately wasn’t taken with 15 minutes to play. Wright didn’t use his time effectively and Knowle’s back-line rushed to the substitute’s aid, ensuring Homer couldn’t guide the cut-back past Allen.

If either team were going to score in the closing stages, it looked more likely to be Knowle. They were getting the ball into the box - albeit not always threatening - and Gornal were over-hitting escape ball after escape ball.

And that goal finally came in the eighth minute of stoppage time when Copeland raced beyond Dan Harvey down the left flank before flashing a ball across goal for Barnes to fire home.

It was a goal that sparked absolute limbs from the away dugout and the travelling Knowle support. They knew their team was within touching distance of the league title.

But the game wasn’t over just yet - or so everyone at the stadium of a Knowle persuasion thought.

Just when Callum Scott and Warren-Paul were sprinting through on goal - with absolutely no-one in their way - after a rapid counter-attack had been launched following a Gornal corner, the referee decided to blow his whistle for full-time.

Scott was shown a straight red card in the aftermath for an aggrieved reaction, but it feels very hard to blame him. With the comeback of all comebacks and three crucial points in the balance, it was a mix of joy and frustration for Knowle once the tempers had settled.

After all was said and done, victory over Stapenhill for Knowle and anything other than three points for Gornal against Ingles will seal the deal for the Robins this Saturday.

You can really smell it now.

Knowle Held by Birstall But Remain At Summit

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 10:55:52 GMT

4th April 2026: Knowle FC 1-1 Birstall United

George Revell reports as the spoils are shared after a crazy second half…

Knowle picked up another valuable point in their quest for the league title as they drew 1-1 with play-off chasers Birstall United at the Draintech Community Stadium on Easter Saturday.

Hayden Purves’ second-half spot-kick was cancelled out by a superb free-kick from Birstall substitute Ryan Seal late on, but that wasn’t all the drama the game had to offer.

Referee Josh East eventually rescinded Sam Burton’s red card after a four-minute stoppage before Purves’ penalty in a crazy second half which included George Seeley donning Knowle’s pink goalkeeper shirt for over half-an-hour following an injury to starting shot-stopper Matt Horton.

Conditions meant it was never going to be an match for the football purists. Plenty of head tennis was played in an opening 15 minutes where Knowle matched Birstall’s direct approach in the blustery wind, but real chances were few and far between.

The game’s first shot on target was straight at Horton, but still a powerful effort that he had to make sure didn’t spill to the feet of any onrushing attackers.

Josh Crossley collected a bouncing ball 16 yards from goal before setting himself and unleashing a lethal strike, which Horton neatly guided out of harm’s way for Jack Duggan to hoof clear.

Toby Scott left visiting goalkeeper Charlie Doherty sprawling in the 26th minute, almost curling into the top-right corner with what would have been a peach of a goal after meeting Purves’ deep right-wing cross following a prolonged period of Knowle possession in the final third.

Birstall came almightily close themselves just 90 seconds later. Andres Articolo headed Billy Tebbatt’s deep corner back across the face of goal, before Owen Dewing crashed a header of his own into the angle of the right-hand post and crossbar.

Talib Copeland’s left-wing cut-back just evading Odane Barnes was the best moment of the closing stages of a first half that was largely dominated by the weather. Both sides battled away but went in goalless at half-time.

Copeland came within inches of opening the scoring immediately after the restart, beating Doherty with a cross-shot, but the ball whistled just past the right-hand post.

Seeley courageously volunteered himself to swap his red shirt for Horton’s pink one when the goalkeeper trudged off the pitch under the supervision of Club Physio Tom Hodson shortly after the hour. MD Shimul was summoned from the bench to replace Horton, taking Seeley’s place at the front of midfield.

Copeland came close once more with 21 minutes to play. The Robins’ top scorer headed Purves’ right-wing free-kick just wide from eight yards after Dom Watts had floored Connor Mort with a late lunge.

Then the chaos began. Burton was shown a red card and sent inside after tripping up Shimul in the box following Purves’ quick throw-in. However, after immersing himself in deep discussion with his far-side linesman regarding the laws of the game, referee East downgraded Burton’s punishment to a yellow card. Not something you see every day at this level.

No matter the number of Birstall players that would remain on the pitch, whether it be 10 or 11, Purves still had a penalty to take - and he emphatically fired home his 13th goal of the season to give Knowle the lead after four minutes of waiting.

Birstall were buoyed by their reprieve of Burton remaining on the pitch and looked more likely to score the next goal. Ordinarily, Burton almost drew them level in the 87th minute - but his header drifted just wide of the right-hand post.

And they found an equaliser in spectacular fashion with seconds of normal time to play. Seal, Birstall’s leading goal-scorer, whipped a wonderful free-kick into the top-left corner from 25 yards that not even Seeley’s gibbon-like arms could reach.

Birstall threw away a huge chance to win it in the fifth minute of stoppage time when Aidan Neal blazed over the bar following Karl Nkumba’s left-wing cut-back, and that was that - the spoils were shared.

Second-placed Gornal Athletic beat Nuneaton Griff 5-0 at the same time, but Knowle are still top on goal difference, have two games in hand and travel to Smethwick Rangers ahead of their crunch clash with the Peacocks at Garden Walk on Thursday night.

Knowle Edge Closer to Title With Vital Away Win

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 10:42:08 GMT

31st March 2026:Leicester St Andrews 0-1 Knowle FC

George Revell reports on a huge night for Knowle in their quest for the league title…

Battling Knowle strengthened their position as frontrunners in the Midland Football League Division One title race with a hard-fought 1-0 victory on the road at high-flying Leicester St. Andrews.

A solitary first-half strike from Hayden Purves, coupled with two magnificent saves from goalkeeper Matt Horton and a superb defensive display, made sure the Robins preserved their table-topping status, leaving themselves in a strong position with six matches to play.

The Drews, in the midst of an impressive play-off challenge themselves, weren’t afraid to take the game to Knowle early on and crafted the game’s first real chance four minutes in.

A lofted ball from home right-back James Merriman bypassed Knowle’s midfield, and caught out centre-backs Jack Duggan and Flynn Powell. Onrushing striker Joe Ball raced beyond Powell but couldn’t quite direct his delicate chip inside Horton’s right-hand post.

Experienced defender Duggan soon intervened to deny Nathan McGarrity a shooting chance after he had neatly flicked over Powell in an opening 10 minutes where Knowle weren’t allowed a glimpse of goal.

But Knowle, aiming for the title, soon turned it on and almost found the net in the 14th minute when Purves’ menacing right-wing cross flashed across the face of goal and narrowly missed the left foot of Talib Copeland at the back post.

The game’s frantic opening continued with Knowle coming close again barely 90 seconds later. Odane Barnes brilliantly plucked the ball from the Leicestershire sky before losing his footing and firing just wide of the left-hand upright.

Knowle often threaten down the right, so it was no surprise when Purves’ 12th goal of the season came about from that side on 19 minutes. Copeland, after holding off pressure and driving to the byline, pulled back for Purves to guide a shot past Drews stopper Archie Wood and into the bottom-left corner.

The already-poor lighting at Canal Street only became more apparent as the sun lowered further and intensity came down slightly as the players got used to the dark conditions.

But the pitch remained in excellent condition and the dry weather allowed Knowle to settle and take control as the half wore on.

Having said that, Knowle’s next opening arrived in scrappy fashion, Duggan having a stabbed effort saved by Wood after Copeland - helped by his tall frame - beat two defenders to the header and smartly flicked on for him six yards out.

Wood couldn’t parry far enough to fully clear the ball, but McGarrity did his defensive duties to prevent Knowle skipper George Seeley from pouncing on the rebound.

Seeley’s next involvement - or lack of it - was the cause of a few worries. Joint-managers Matt and Clive Seeley were forced into an early substitution after their relative stayed down following a collision nine minutes before half-time.

The striker tried to shake off the pain but was unable to continue. Zak Parsons was summoned from the bench.

The lengthy stoppage for Seeley’s treatment seemed to suck all life out of both teams as half-time approached and the game became much more scrappy. Neither side really threatened again before time was called on the first half and Knowle went in a goal to the good.

Play was even but cagey immediately after the restart and openings were hard for either side to come by, hence why the Drews were furious when their angry penalty appeals were waved away six minutes into the second half.

Connor Mort was beaten by Ball before the young midfielder wriggled his way into the box and eventually went to ground after a minor shirt-pull by Callum Scott. Ball, who only joined the Drews in January from local rivals Aylestone Park, made it look much worse than it was, though the hosts felt aggrieved.

The Drews continued to pile on the pressure and Horton was called into action two minutes later following a well-worked set piece. A deep free-kick was met by Merriman, who flicked back for McGarrity to drive one at Horton’s near post from 16 yards. Quick reactions from Horton preserved Knowle’s lead.

There were periods of bright spells from Knowle, but Horton again denied the hosts an equaliser after the hour following a swift counter-attack.

After setting himself with his chest, Ball played a pass to Corey Bucalossi on the edge of the penalty area, but the midfielder played a clever dummy for McGarrity to drive one just within Horton’s grasp.

Neither side registered a shot on target at all after that. In a quiet final 25 minutes, Knowle stayed resolute to secure a victory which could prove huge come the end of the season.

Second-placed Gornal Athletic ended their minor slip-up with a dominant 5-0 win over Coventry Copsewood at the same time, but Knowle are still firmly in the driving seat.

They lead Gornal by two points and have two extra games to play.

Big Win Sends Ladies Top

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:11:07 GMT

29th March 2026: Droitwich Spa 0-6 Knowle LFC

The big games are coming thick and fast in the West Midlands Regional League at this stage of the season and, with the two sides sitting level on points and goal difference at the top of the table, this match had top billing. It was Knowle who lived up to the hype and produced a scintillating performance and an emphatic result, beating Droitwich Spa 0-6 on Sunday afternoon.

The warning signs of where Knowle's threat would come from were there early on - Robins were quick out the blocks with a well planned team move from kick off that saw Grace Evans' cross slide all the way across the six yard line with only a touch needed to knock it into the net. A Droitwich defender then made a good clearance from just in front of the winger, and from the opposite side Darcey Garner sent a shot from edge of the box wide. Possession wise, these early stages were pretty even but it was the away side making it count, peppering the Droitwich custodian with attempts whilst at the other end, Droitwich couldn't trouble the Knowle goal. The Robins' attacking intent paid dividend on 13 minutes; Trina Greaves beat the full back to cross deep and although the Droitwich keeper managed to get a hand to it to divert the ball away from Jess Barlow, Evans was left free to head home.

Droitwich tried to hit back immediately, shooting straight from kick off, but Sophie Henness pushed it onto the bar and claimed the rebound. The Knowle keeper was called into action again, smothering a 1v1 chance well at the feet of the attacker and suffering a cut leg in the process which stopped the game for several minutes. Knowle were back at it after the restart and pressurised the opposition well, with Evans and Greaves having attempts before they extended their lead. Molly Hughes's quick throw set Garner off down the right wing, she cut inside to cross and Evans produced a tidy finish on the back post for her and her team's second of the game. Midfielder Holly Briggs was constantly in the action, winning plenty of possession and using it well, and she teed up both Garner and Greaves for long range attempts that both flew wide. Just before halftime, Droitwich felt unlucky not to pull one back when a good free kick forced Henness into a save that pushed the ball onto the post; Flo Hobbs reacting quickly to clear the rebound well away from danger.

The game may have seemed well poised, but to the delight of the travelling supporters, the Robins went up another gear in the second half. Hughes had control of the dangerous attacker on her side, allowing Hobbs and Byrne to double up on the centre forward, leaving Droitwich with very little way out. At the other end, Garner's pressing was superb all afternoon and she created the third Knowle goal on 54 minutes, nicking the ball off the full backs toes as Droitwich tried to play round the back and teeing up Greaves 1v1 to slot her finish past the keeper. Droitwich's best chance fell to the left winger who slid her shot past the post, but after that it was all Knowle.

Substitute Kate Fleming had a long range sighter that the keeper hung onto, but Hughes quickly won possession from the throw out and played into Greaves. Her through ball found Garner in the corner of the box; her left footed attempt was blocked but she picked up the loose ball and bent it into the top corner with her right to give her side a four goal lead. This seemed to kill off Droitwich's hopes and the final twenty minutes was all Knowle. Some superb football created a number of good chances, not least for the fifth goal. Hobbs won possession in her own half, Sam Smith mopped up and found Hughes in space. She found Greaves in the channel, Evans overlapped to receive the ball, cut inside and return in to Greaves, who looped it over the keeper from sixteen yards out.

In stoppage time, it was Knowle's sixth goal that brought the biggest celebrations and largely because of the scorer. Young forward Keira Whitehouse stepped up to take a free kick from twenty five yards out and duly bent a terrific effort into the top corner for her first ever senior goal, much to the delight of her teammates and the management team.

Knowle Ladies made their way home with an important three points and a much needed boost to the goal difference then, as well as a performance with massive positives. They will look to carry on that form and those levels after the Easter break, when they face Crusaders on 12th April.

Knowle Ladies Celebrate IWD With A 0-1 Win

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 18:26:18 GMT

8th March 2026: Bromsgrove Sporting 0-1 Knowle LFC

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Knowle Net Five Again In Dominant Kirby Rout

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:47:15 GMT

14th March 2026: Kirby Muxloe 2-5 Knowle FC

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Return to Winning Ways with hard-fought victory at Birstall

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:44:35 GMT

3rd March 2026: Birstall United 0-2 Knowle FC

George Revell reports on a big night for Knowle in Leicestershire…

A resilient second-half display helped 10-man Knowle return to winning ways with a hard-fought 2-0 victory away at Birstall United on Tuesday night.

The Robins’ record-breaking 21-match winning streak in Midland Football League Division One was only ended by Heather St. John’s the previous Saturday, but their grit and determination saw them get back on track with a huge win.

Following a cagey opening 45 minutes, MD Shimul utilised his pace to find the breakthrough for Knowle 12 minutes into the second half before Talib Copeland sealed the points in stoppage time after Dylon Bennett’s red card.

Knowle thought they were going to be forced into an early change when Hayden Purves was wiped out by Owen Dewing after just four minutes. Purves was taken down by left-back Dewing on the edge of the penalty area after latching onto Connor Mort’s through ball, but once he had received treatment, the winger was cleared to continue.

After an opening that lacked any clear-cut opportunities for either side, 17-goal striker George Seeley turned provider to create a half-chance for Odane Barnes in the 29th minute. Seeley, also the Knowle skipper, aimed an in-swinging right-wing cross towards the back post where Barnes was waiting, but his fellow forward couldn’t make contact.

Birstall came close to taking the lead 11 minutes before half-time. Knowle allowed Nick Reeves an uncontested header to flick on a deep throw-in and the ball dropped invitingly for Charlie Young, whose effort was inches away from the bottom-right corner.

The game’s intensity grew after the break and Knowle denied two goal-bound Birstall shots from close range with two superb blocks on 53 minutes.

Just four minutes later, Shimul - on as a half-time substitute - provided the electrifying energy and speed Knowle needed. The 22-year-old latched onto Seeley’s sliderule pass and raced away from the Birstall defence before rounding the onrushing goalkeeper Charlie Doherty and calmly slotting into an empty net.

Most of the remaining half-hour was a very scrappy affair - foul after foul and header after header - which lacked any real goal-mouth action. The closest either side came was when Copeland cut in from the left and arrowed a shot just wide of Doherty’s right-hand post.

The feisty clash took a bizarre turn in the second minute of stoppage time. Bennett appeared to be booked a second time - and subsequently given his marching orders - for mistakenly handling the ball after the referee had blown for him to take a free-kick.

Substitute Jack Duggan expertly diverted a threatening first-time right-wing cross away from goal as Birstall searched for a leveller in the closing stages, but some route-one football saw Knowle put the game to bed with 60 seconds to play.

Mort bypassed almost the entire Birstall team with a sublime lofted ball and Copeland won his tussle with Birstall defender Fraser Hawes before delicately dinking over the onrushing Doherty - and wheeling away in celebration knowing the three points were safely coming back to B93.

Wins on nights like this are a hallmark of champions.

Record-Breaking Run Ends As Knowle Held By Heather St John’s

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:40:56 GMT

21st February 2026: Knowle FC 1-1 Heather St Johns

George Revell reports as Knowle’s 21-match winning streak comes to an end…

Knowle’s remarkable 21-match winning streak in Midland Football League Division One came to an end as a stubborn Heather St John’s side held them to a frustrating 1-1 draw at the Draintech Community Stadium.

Promoted from Division Two (Step 7 of non-league) just last season, Knowle had not dropped a single point since a narrow 1-0 defeat at Sutton United six months ago and now find themselves firmly on course for back-to-back promotions.

A first-half header from Kye Wooldridge left the Robins stunned before Dylon Bennett drew them level seven minutes after the restart. Despite Knowle’s best efforts, however, they could not find a game-clinching goal late on.

After being walked out by matchday mascots U9 Cougars, whose sponsors Fonteyn were also in attendance to record the occasion, Knowle started in their usual upbeat fashion, with a neat triangle of passes down the right channel leading to their first chance 12 minutes in.

Hayden Purves laid off for Toby Scott to send a looping ball down the wing, leaving overlapping right-back Connor Mort in a foot-race with his marker Kian Taylor. Mort won the race and fizzed a pass across the face of goal towards Talib Copeland at the far post, but visiting goalkeeper Matt White got to it first.

The Robins appealed for a penalty when Copeland was tripped in the box 15 minutes later. Mort’s teasing through ball found the winger who, after cutting into the box from the right, was brought to the ground by a tackle from Harry Stewart. Knowle’s protestations were soon waved away though, and play restarted with a goal-kick.

Heather took the lead 13 minutes before half-time via an impressively worked set piece. Taylor’s deliberately-deep delivery from the left was nodded back across goal by Lewis Hopewell and Wooldridge was waiting to flick home the opener.

Knowle rallied after the break and found an equaliser within seven minutes of the restart. Bennett’s initial effort from 25 yards was well blocked but the ball dropped invitingly for him to have another go from inside the box - and this time he emphatically fired into the bottom-left corner.

Knowle were on the ascendancy by this point and almost found another five minutes later through Copeland. Heather did not properly deal with a long ball forward and White did well to keep out Copeland’s low drive at his near post.

Chance after chance came and went for Knowle as full-time edged closer, but Heather deserve immense credit - they became the first side to take points off the Robins in over six months.

The visitors defended resolutely to secure a huge point in their play-off push and make sure their hosts were denied another last-gasp winner just three days after their dramatic victory at Bilston Town.

While the run ended in disappointment, this remarkable sequence of results will live long in the memory of everyone associated with the Robins and is something the club can be truly proud of.

Despite the draw, Knowle are still two points clear at the league’s summit ahead of a top-of-the-table clash at Gornal Athletic on Saturday - a team they have already beaten four times this season.

Robins Are Record Breakers!

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:33:58 GMT

18th February 2026: Bilston Town 1-2 Knowle FC

George Revell reports on a historic night in the club’s 100th year…

Battling Knowle became Midland Football League record-holders for the longest winning streak in its history after securing their 21st successive league victory with a dramatic 2-1 triumph at Bilston Town.

On a winning run that stretches all the way back to mid-August, Knowle took the lead through Talib Copeland 13 minutes before half-time. Sam Yankson drew Bilston level with less than two minutes of regulation time left.

But the never-say-die attitude that had kept Knowle - who were only promoted from Step 7 last season - going for this long soon kicked in, and substitute Brady Floyd had the final say with an emphatic header in the second minute of stoppage time to send the away dugout into absolute pandemonium.

Eager to avenge their defeat in the reverse fixture three weeks earlier, Bilston started with intent in front of their home crowd and tested Robins stopper Matt Horton for the first time seven minutes in. The ball dropped invitingly for Yankson 18 yards from goal, but he didn’t make life difficult for Horton.

Aware of the record they were chasing, Knowle responded immediately. Copeland fizzed a teasing ball across the face of goal, but the onrushing George Seeley couldn’t quite stretch far enough to meet it.

Another chance fell to the top scorer on the half-hour mark. The ball dropped kindly for 17-goal striker Seeley on the edge of the box and his snap-shot only narrowly missed the bottom-right corner.

The pressure kept on coming and Knowle found the opener 13 minutes before half-time. A game of head tennis ended with Tom Kinsey - who only joined the Robins from Coton Green four days prior - slipping in Copeland to bend an effort past Bilston stopper Ethan Hawkes.

Rain continued to lash down at a very muddy Queen Street as half-time edged closer and Knowle went in at the break with a one-goal lead.

The game was very scrappy in far-from-ideal weather conditions after the break but Knowle almost found an opening in the 56th minute. Kinsey, who scored 23 goals in 27 matches for the Green Army last term, was played through on goal and would have found himself one-on-one with Hawkes had it not been for a sublime last-ditch tackle from Bilston defender Haydn Hall.

After a fruitful debut, Kinsey was replaced by Floyd with 15 minutes to play. Odane Barnes also entered the fray in place of Hayden Purves.

Bilston levelled in the 89th minute. Ben Priest drove a low pass into the penalty area which, after ricocheting off multiple bodies, dropped kindly for Yankson to guide beyond Horton and into the corner.

The hosts thought they had struck the decisive blow with such little time left, but with a record on the line, Knowle were never going to let this night be anything but their own.

In the dying seconds, excellent work from Anton Powell saw Knowle win the ball high up the pitch. Left-back Powell then lofted a cross high in the air towards Floyd at the back post, who nodded the ball into the back of the net to spark joyous celebrations in Wolverhampton.

Knowle knew that, against all the odds, they were record-breakers.

As old and experienced as joint-manager Clive Seeley is - by his own admission - this historic night reminded him exactly why we all love the beautiful game.

“Football never ceases to amaze me,” he told us post-match. “The two games we’ve had against Bilston (recently) could have gone either way. They’ve pushed us to the limit; it’s been a massive test.

“The conditions were tough for both sides, but you have to give full credit to both teams for going full hammer to try and nick the win.

“It certainly wasn’t one for the football purists - the midfield had to be bypassed at times because of the terrible conditions.

“When they found an equaliser so late on, I’ll admit I thought that was it and our magnificent run was over - but these lads never stop surprising me. They dug deep, and that winning goal at the death… well, as old as I am, you get very few feelings like that in football. It was a special moment.”

The feeling’s mutual Clive - that certainly was special.

Semi-Final Success for Ladies!

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 14:00:12 GMT

15th February 2026: Sutton United 1-4 Knowle Ladies

Knowle Ladies earned themselves a spot in the County Challenge Vase final last weekend, with a 1-4 victory away at Sutton United in their semi final clash. In front of a bumper crowd of around 200, Knowle dealt with the occasion superbly and will now face Walsall FC in the final in April.

Arguably the game was won within the first ten minutes. Keen to stamp their authority and keep the home crowd quiet, Knowle knew they had to start well and indeed they did, racing into a 3-0 goal lead within that period.

The first goal hit the net with exactly one minute on the clock, and involved a bit of route one football. Keeper Sophie Henness caught a speculative cross and immediately kicked long. Darcey Garner won the header to send Trina Greaves haring down the right side and she fired a perfect low cross along the six yard line that Grace Evans planted into the bottom corner.

Knowle's wide players were causing no end of problems for the home side, and it was the turn of Garner to get on the scoresheet next. A good passing move saw Knowle move the ball left to right, but Morgan Betteridge's attempted cross was deflected. Garner was first to the loose ball eight yards out on the angle and she absolutely leathered her shot into the top corner to put her side 2-0 up. From the kick off, Knowle forced Sutton back to their own keeper then as the ball went to the full back, Evans steamed in with the press to nick the ball. A smart turn from her allowed her to send a cross in, and it was Garner coming from the other side that poked it past the keeper.

With only ten minutes played, this goal seemed to knock the confidence of Sutton; they made subs and changed shape to counteract Knowle's dominance, but the Robins till found plenty of joy through their front three, ably backed up by their midfield; the guile of Natalie Gibson with the strength of Kate Fleming and calm head of Demi Booth gave Knowle control in that area. Indeed, Gibson was next to try her luck with a long range attempt that the Greens' keeper fielded well.

When Sutton did attack, they couldn't find the right final ball through the defenders in blue but their first real chance fell just before the 30minute mark - the midfielder's pass found the striker in space in the box, but Betteridge made two good challenges before Garner hacked clear from the resulting scramble. Knowle then extended their lead; Gibson won the ball from a United throw in, Greaves' cross field ball was cut out but she collected the clearance and dinked a lovely pass into the path of Evans, who finished with aplomb for 0-4. Greaves then sent an attempted lob just wide of the post and a long range piledriver from Sutton's left winger flew over the bar.

Sutton had their sweeper keeper to thank for mopping up the remaining Knowle attacks of the half, coming off her line well to kick or claim and the last opportunity of the half did fall to the side in green when Knowle were slow to deal with a long ball over the top and the striker nearly nipped in. Henness' outstretched leg stopped the ball and allowed her to drop on it however, and Knowle were well worth their four goal lead at half time.

The second half didn't quite start in the same rip-roaring fashion as the first, with play becoming scrappy from both sides. Knowle had an early reshuffle at the back, with centre halves Flo Hobbs and Maz Byrne leaving the fray with knocks, but Molly Hughes continued her fine display in winning everything alongside the new pairing of Sam Smith and Booth. Booth made two important interceptions on low crosses and Henness was sharp to pounce on any loose ball in and around her goal.

Sutton had learnt their lesson from the first half, and when the Knowle wide players did break through, both were quickly taken down and the Robins couldn't quite take advantage of the free kicks. Chances were few and far between for both sides, but Henness did have to make a good save when the United forward broke clear. Fleming, impressing in her first appearance since September also forced the home side keeper into a good stop. The closest either side came to a goal before a frenetic finale was when a Sutton defender took a wild swing at a dangerous Greaves cross and hit her own crossbar, then Smith's header from the resulting corner bounced just wide.

With 86 minutes on the clock, it seemed the game was petering out, but Sutton produced a good move to give the attacker a clear shot and Betteridge made a superb goal saving tackle, but injured herself in the process. Knowle lost another defender and then also their clean sheet soon after. The five minute stoppage to take Betteridge from the field saw the eventual corner cleared, but as the home side worked the ball wide a collision in the box sent the forward tumbling and the referee called a penalty. The spot kick was confidently dispatched into the top corner, and with Greaves sent to the sin bin for her protests, Knowle would have to play the remainder of the game with ten players, though the clock was over ninety. The referee then had to sort out a melee that saw Henness and a Sutton player yellow carded for tussling over the ball, and more minutes were added.

Sutton threw everything they had at Knowle in that final part of the game and had the majority of possession; the Robins had to defend stoutly to not allow them a real chance. The clock ticked further and further on, allowing Greaves to come back on for a final minute, but the referee finally blew up on 105 and Knowle's job was done.

A superb start and a professional second half made Knowle worthy winners, but Sutton's late fight gave the large support they had gathered something to cheer on a drizzly afternoon. Knowle will face Walsall FC who ran out 2-3 winners in the other semi final against Redditch United; date and venue for the final will be confirmed when we are made aware.

Cheal's On Wheels Sponsor The Kestrels

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 16:12:44 GMT

Knowle FC welcome local mobile barista van on board

Introducing the newest sponsor to join the Knowle FC family...

Warm welcome to all at Cheal’s on Wheels who are the new U15 Kestrels kit sponsors! The Kestrels finally got to wear their new kits in the last couple of weeks after a lot of weather related postponements; here they are showing off the blue away kit which has gone down a storm with all the players.

Cheal’s on Wheels are the ultimate mobile barista bar. Based in Solihull, their converted vintage horsebox provides the perfect barista service for any event. Recently they've been getting involved in the beautiful game by serving up drinks and vibes at The Lionesses camps, so supporting grassroots girls football too was a no brainer. You can follow them on Instagram at @chealsonwheels and make sure you follow the adventures of Reg The Espresso Dog too - you may recognise him @reggiecheal! Use Cheals website to enquire about bookings at HOME | Cheals on Wheels

Cheals' owner James told us "I am very excited to be supporting the Kestrels and am proud to be sponsoring both the home and away kits. I am really pleased to be supporting a local grassroots club and helping the female pathway continue to grow! We're looking forward to working with you to maximize this partnership for everyone, especially with the recent 3-star award and the Centenary celebrations at the club!"

So far the Kestrels are unbeaten in the league, so we're hoping the new sponsorship gives them even more support as they try to push for the league title - keep it going girls, can we maybe get another trophy for Reggie to add to his photo album?!

Ladies Fight to a Semi Final

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:41:12 GMT

18th January 2026: Knowle Ladies 2-1 Long Itchington

Photo courtesy of Mike Huckfield - Knowle celebrate Byrne's winner

The Draintech Community Ground was wet, windy and misty on Sunday afternoon, but Knowle Ladies battled both the conditions and going down to ten players to secure a 2-1 win over Long Itchington that sees them through to the County Challenge Vase Semi-Final.

The first ten minutes of the game were a cagey affair, with both sides trying to find their feet and their football on a tricky surface. Neither side had a sight of goal before Knowle made the most of their first attempt of the game, going 1-0 up through Trina Greaves. Jess Barlow won possession deep in her own half before combining with Holly Briggs to play forward. Grace Evans leapt on an opponents loose touch and prodded the ball through to the onrushing Greaves who carried the ball into the area and finished well past the Long Itchington keeper.

The Knowle forward then had the ball in the net twice more in quick succession, yet both were chalked off for tight offside calls. The Robins play to create both chances had a lot to admire however, and it felt like they were in control of the game. Darcey Garner was next to try her luck after Morgan Betteridge and Flo Hobbs sent her clear, but the young forward's shot was straight at the away keeper.

Long Itchington's first real attempt at goal came on the 25minute mark. Knowle were caught dallying on the ball in midfield and lost possession, the chip forward found the striker well but keeper Sophie Henness raced off her line to make a superb big block, then Sam Smith was able to clear the follow up shot from the six yard line.

A couple of minutes later, another big moment looked as though it may swing the game in the away side's favour. Barlow was red carded for kicking out at an opponent, and Knowle had to face up to over an hour with ten players. The resulting free kick sailed well over the bar and Knowle reorganised sensibly to see out the first half with no major incidents at either end.

Spectators in the ground were expecting a onslaught from Long Itchington in the second period, and the team in blue certainly had the lions share of possession. However the Robins defended stoutly, winning their challenges and any loose balls well. The away team were restricted to a couple of long range pot shots that Henness fielded easily in the first fifteen minutes of that second half. The game was then forced into a lengthy stoppage when a Long Itchington player suffered a nasty gash to the knee making a challenge on Evans. Fifteen minutes went by before she was able to leave the field patched up and head to hospital for stitches, and all the players had to refocus ready for the final half hour.

Byrne and Betteridge put in important tackles to stop Long Itchington having attempts on goal before, despite their player disadvantage, Knowle then went further ahead. Good play from Evans forced a corner with Garner delivered plumb on the six yard line. Skipper Maz Byrne was unmarked and thundered her header into the net to give her side a two goal cushion.

It was then Long Itchington's turn to have the linesman's flag stop the celebrations; a smart decision from Demi Booth to step up made sure the forward was offside as she ran to collect the long ball and round Henness. Knowle continued to defend with enthusiasm and numbers, working incredibly hard to not allow their opponents to have any sight of goal. Substitutes Carly Donnelly, Keira Whitehouse and Molly Hughes all stopped attacks well as the game ran into that fifteen minutes of stoppage time.

Long Itchington's best chances actually fell in those closing stages. On 98minutes, a Knowle counter attack broke down and a huge clearance from the away defender seemed to confuse the officials, who did not spot the forward coming back from an offside position to challenge Booth in the air. With both players flattened, the winger ran through to create a 2v1 against Hughes; she did really well to win the ball but the rebound bounced off the recovering Byrne into the strikers path. Henness was able to make the first save but could do nothing as Long Itchington tapped home the loose ball.

Knowle regrouped and were professional in those final few minutes, using the pace and tenacity of Lucy Jones to run the balls into corners and slowing the game wherever possible. Robins hearts were in mouths on one occasion when Booth's clearance was charged down, but the forward's shot from edge of box flew over the bar and that was the away team's only real chance to grab that equaliser.

Knowle therefore go through with a 2-1 win to the semi-finals and can be proud of the solid defensive performance they executed after the sending off. The draw will be made after the conclusion of the quarter finals next week!

"Just Be You" - Making a Difference

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 17:08:19 GMT

Our very own George Revell gives us an update on how the neurodiversity & NVD sessions are going...

Knowle FC’s ‘Just Be You’ football sessions have helped boost the confidence of many young neurodiverse people.

The sessions, run every Saturday from 12:00-1:00pm by volunteer coaches, give attendees the opportunity to enjoy the game we all love by - literally - just being themselves.

From skill-building games to teamwork-based activities and even short-sided matches, the sessions’ aim is to provide a positive experience for all participants to enjoy themselves in a fun, non-competitive environment without fear of judgement or having to worry about being ‘the best’.

Open to all children and young people aged 5-16 who are neurodiverse or have a non-visible disability of any kind, our sessions are a safe space for participants to rekindle their love for football.

Following the success of free taster sessions over Easter 2025, the sessions have been held every week since August 2025 (rain or shine, except for extreme weather) at the Draintech Community Stadium (B93 0NX), home of Knowle FC, and have been a happy place for many youngsters.

One person in particular the sessions have been a help to is Daisy.

Daisy wasn’t able to get involved in much sport when she was younger because of Perthes Disease in her hip and required several extensive surgeries, which really impacted her confidence and mental health.

She started kicking a ball around in the garden as a way to get rid of the stress that the school day provided (as you can imagine, mainstream school isn’t the easiest thing for neurodiverse people!) and then began going to the park with her dad a lot.

Daisy attended the taster sessions and really enjoyed them. She particularly enjoyed being with people who had similar interests without the pressure of feeling obliged to do something other than have fun. Daisy was adamant about joining the sessions once they got started in the summer and she has improved in confidence every week since.

Recognised for her enthusiasm and ability, Daisy was recently asked if she wanted to join one of the club’s many girls’ teams and has been supported by the kind, welcoming coaches, not only with the football itself, but also interacting with the other girls.

Daisy is now loving her football and it just goes to show what people can achieve when they have the right support around them.

Daisy’s story is a fantastic example of how helpful Knowle FC can be - but not the only one. The impact of these sessions resonates personally with me, too.

Despite writing 100+ articles about several different football-related things (more on that in a minute), I don’t think I’ve ever written anything about myself in particular, so it feels a bit strange - but I thought it would be a good idea for this feature.

I, George, 16, have a visual impairment and cerebral palsy on my left side, which has made it very difficult for me to play ‘normal’ football at a somewhat respectable level with people my own age. I would have loved to play for a grassroots team on a Sunday morning, much like many of my mates at school did, but I never got the chance to. “Dad, why can’t I be like them?” 12-year-old me would ask when watching my friends.

I instead ended up attending cerebral palsy (CP) football sessions put on by Stoke City (unbelievably the nearest option at the time), which meant my dad and I doing what were close to 100-mile round trips every Sunday just so I could get the chance to play football like everyone else.

They ended up having to stop their sessions eventually however, due to a lack of funding. There was potential for them to restart a couple of years later, but soon after COVID came around and brought that plan to an abrupt halt. Nothing really happened with it after that.

Anyway, I have since tried to come up with ways to still enjoy and get the most out of football - even if it meant not being able to play it to a reasonable level. Dad and I now religiously follow our beloved Birmingham City all over the country, rarely missing a match. I even attended a whopping 50 games in total during Blues’ record-breaking season in League One. Dad only managed 49 - and he will never hear the end of it from me!

At the same time, although I only really properly started in summer 2025 after my GCSEs, I have voluntarily been the lead writer at Blues Focus, arguably the top fan-run Birmingham City website. This means writing things like match reports (immediately after games, even on the way home!), previews and opinion pieces and having them read by hundreds, if not thousands, of Blues fans all over the world. My top article has over 6,000 reads!

After the success of the Easter taster sessions, I, like Daisy, have been coming to as many sessions as possible (when I’m not reporting on a Blues match a hundred miles away!) and have really enjoyed the positive and inclusive environment created by everyone at the club.

To top it all off, my dad just so happened to show club chairman Stuart Lanyon one of my articles, which he was so impressed by that he ended up asking if I wanted to write match reports on Knowle’s first team games and contribute to the match programmes and club website - along with pieces like this!

I’ve spoken about myself a fair bit here, but I just want to emphasise one more thing - how inclusive Stuart has made the writing for me. Aware of my visual impairment, Stuart explained how he was going to make sure I got sent the match footage via email and personally showed me how the software works so I could zoom in and see all the video in enough detail to write about it.

I would like to end by saying, on behalf of everyone who attends Knowle FC’s Just Be You sessions, a massive thank you to everyone at the club for all the hard work you do. It will never be taken for granted and you have all improved so many lives.

Up the Robins!

Knowle sweep aside North Kilworth

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 16:52:31 GMT

13th January 2026: Knowle FC 3-0 North Kilworth

George Revell reports as Knowle make it 18 league wins in a row to set up a crunch clash with Sutton United on Saturday…

Knowle kickstarted their centenary year by equalling the Midland Football League’s longest winning streak with an impressive 3-0 victory over North Kilworth at the Draintech Community Stadium on Tuesday night.

Hereford previously held the outright record of 18 matches but Knowle - who it must be said won promotion from Division Two (Step 7 of non-league) just last season - unbelievably haven’t dropped a single point since their 1-0 defeat at high-flying Sutton United in August, which only came via a gut-wrenching 96th-minute spot-kick.

Sutton, top of the table before this round of fixtures, could only manage a 1-1 draw against Ingles - and a Robins goal either side of half-time from George Seeley, along with a smart finish from influential forward Elliot Edwards, made sure their rivals were forced to surrender their spot at the top of the league.

Knowle asserted their title-chasing dominance in the first half before the dismissal of visiting right-back Harry Smith five minutes into the second half made the hosts’ life even easier.

After three postponements thanks to the unforgiving winter weather, Knowle were keen to get back on track as quickly as they could - and they almost won a penalty inside the opening 20 seconds when lively winger Talib Copeland was brought down in the box.

Copeland’s shirt was pulled by a visiting defender, and both players fell to the ground, but appeals for a penalty were soon waved away and play was restarted with a Knowle throw-in shortly after Killy hoofed the ball clear in panic.

Copeland created another opening for Knowle midway through the first half. The ball was worked across the width of the pitch before a neat pass from left-back Anton Powell set up Copeland, who weaved his way to the edge of the box before seeing his shot sail high above the crossbar.

Knowle came close again just three minutes later. Killy failed to properly deal with Hayden Purves’ right-wing cross and the ball eventually fell to Connor Mort, 20 yards from goal, who unleashed a shot which was inadvertently blocked by a team-mate in a packed penalty area.

There was even less time between that chance and the Robins finding the breakthrough. Dylon Bennett’s ball into the middle was smartly flicked on by Floyd - and top scorer Seeley wasn’t going to let this one go amiss. He ruthlessly lashed past Killy goalkeeper Tom Reeve to fire Knowle deservedly into the lead.

Killy’s best play came just after Knowle’s opener and they almost mustered a response on 31 minutes. A right-wing cross wasn’t properly dealt with and Jes Adcock was allowed the time and space to strike an effort at goal which, luckily for Knowle, couldn’t creep inside the left-hand post.

Knowle found a second after a goalmouth scramble three minutes before half-time. Killy couldn’t clear Seeley’s whipped cross from deep and Copeland had an effort saved before the ball eventually dropped kindly for Edwards to bundle in.

Tempers were high after the break and Copeland, who had been a menace all evening, was carelessly wiped out on the left-wing after all of 90 seconds.

Copeland received attention from the physio before, in an even worse manner, being taken down again in a very similar position within a minute of the restart.

That sparked a large confrontation between both sets of players on the touchline right in front of the clubhouse - and, crucially for Knowle, the end of the night for Killy right-back Smith, who had been tasked with marking Copeland.

Smith was given his marching orders and the visitors, already under the cosh, were down to 10 players.

Despite the extensive lengths the visitors went to in order to get him off the pitch, Copeland was able to continue and he might have been getting ahead of himself a little bit when he fired a shot high and wide in the 54th minute.

Killy will no doubt have been pleased to see the back of Copeland when he was given a rest shortly after the hour, but that wasn’t before he angered the visitors’ dugout even more with a tackle on their Jude Coates.

The rest of the game was, as you can probably imagine, pretty scrappy - but there was still time for Knowle to inflict further pain on their already-seething visitors.

After a whopping three minutes of continuous possession - and 47 passes without interruption - the Robins added a third in the 88th minute. Mort’s magnificent cross-field ball found Seeley, who set himself up before lashing into the bottom corner to put the final stamp on proceedings on what was a momentous night for Knowle.

With Sutton and Gornal Athletic both slipping up, the Robins are again now top of the league, with an incredible 64 points after 23 matches. Sutton sit in second place just one point behind but - crucially for Knowle - having played four games more, while Gornal have 60 points from the 23 they have played.

That sets the scene for what promises to be a huge top-of-the-table clash on Saturday afternoon, when Sutton visit B93 for a 3pm kick-off.

Can Knowle extend their lead at the top - and set a new record for the league’s longest ever winning streak?

Get yourself down to the Draintech and get the lads over the line!

Here’s what joint-manager Matt Seeley had to say when we spoke to him post-match…

“It was about time we kicked a football again after all the weather-related postponements. During that (enforced) break, though, we’ve kept the lads ticking over with extra training and gym sessions - and I thought that really showed, especially towards the end of the game,” Seeley commented.

He continued: “In truth, I felt we completely dominated the ball and could have been out of sight by half-time.

“North Kilworth actually improved a bit when they went down to 10 men; they seemed to dig in more and caused us a few more issues at the back.

“That said, the changes we made had a huge impact. The experience of Jack Duggan and Reece Hewitt coming on to settle us and keep everything ticking over was great to see.

“That makes it 18 wins in a row in the league - and I believe we’ve now matched Hereford’s record of 18 on the spin in the Prem (Midland Premier Division - Step 5 of non-league) from 10 seasons ago (2015/16).”

Seeley added: “To say we are beyond proud of everyone at the club would be an understatement.

“Onto Saturday against Sutton we go!”

Five-star Robins Round Off 2025 With 17th Straight League Victory

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 17:34:26 GMT

26th December 2025: Knowle FC 5-0 Smethwick Rangers

George Revell reports as the Robins continue their record-breaking run…

Knowle rounded off a historic 2025 by reclaiming their place at the top of MFL Division One with an emphatic 5-0 win over Smethwick Rangers in front of an impressive crowd at the Draintech Community Stadium. Sutton United occupied first place on Christmas Day but Knowle made sure the festive celebrations continued for the 292 in attendance by snatching it back in the Boxing Day sunshine.

Two quick-fire goals just four minutes apart - a penalty from Connor Mort and a delightful strike from Dylon Bennett - put Knowle in a commanding position after the half-hour mark before a cool finish from Talib Copeland tripled their lead just before half-time. Mort added a fourth from the penalty spot after the break, before substitute Brady Floyd had the final say with a header nine minutes from time.

Knowle started the brighter and fashioned their first real chance to take the lead in the ninth minute when Matt Horton’s raking 70-yard ball found the run of Hayden Purves down the left wing. Goalkeeper Horton picked out Purves’ run perfectly before the wide man darted past visiting defender Ben Croot and flashed a teasing ball across the face of goal, but it evaded the feet of Talib Copeland and Toby Scott couldn’t quite get the required connection to fire his effort on target.

The Robins came close again on 20 minutes when captain George Seeley threaded an inviting ball through for Purves to shoot, but Rangers stopper Fraser Hamilton-Wright was equal to it.

Rangers were living dangerously though, and their luck wasn’t going to last forever with Knowle chasing a 17th successive league win. Elliot Edwards - on his home debut - was brought down in the area by Pierre Phillips and, despite angry protests from the visitors’ bench, a penalty was awarded. Mort sent Hamilton-Wright the wrong way and ran off in celebration after giving Knowle the lead in the 28th minute.

Knowle were in their groove by now and had a second barely four minutes later. Bennett initially had a shot from the edge of the box blocked by the shin of Croot, but the ball kindly fell back to him and he needed no invitation to rifle it into the roof of the net.

The rest of the first half was dominated by the Robins and they grabbed a third through Copeland in the second minute of stoppage time. Toby Scott played a magnificent through ball to Copeland in behind the Rangers defence and the lively winger stayed composed to guide past on-loan Walsall youngster Hamilton-Wright.

Copeland’s goal made sure Knowle went in at the break with a three-goal cushion but they came out wanting even more in the second half - and he played an integral part in their fourth 10 minutes after the restart. Two Rangers defenders hauled Copeland to the ground in the box, and despite Hamilton-Wright diving the right way, he was never going to stop Mort’s second spot-kick of the afternoon.

Joint-managers Matt and Clive Seeley made four changes after the hour, which saw Floyd, Antony Powell, MD Shimul and Odane Barnes enter the fray, replacing Seeley, Copeland, Purves and Flynn Powell.

Lewis Capper-Imms provided Rangers’ best moment after 66 minutes, but his wicked free-kick from the right came to nothing. Ultimately though, the visitors didn’t pose any threat to Knowle’s stellar defensive record. It’s now six clean sheets in a row for the Robins.

Influential forward Edwards made way for Leo Henderson shortly after and Knowle put the icing on the cake of a five-star performance with nine minutes to play. Callum Scott’s in-swinging corner was headed onto the crossbar by Mort, but Floyd was first on-scene to the rebound and nodded home from close range.

Another three points and another win for the relentless Robins. An excellent way to round off a remarkable year. Here’s what Knowle’s top scorer George Seeley had to say when he spoke to us post-match…

“We knew we had to be at it against a good Smethwick side and we delivered a great performance,” Seeley said. “It was a slow start for us and we were particularly wasteful in the first 15 minutes - but as soon as we got the (first) penalty, we didn’t look back.”

Seeley also had plenty of praise for Knowle’s new recruit: “I thought Elliot Edwards was superb on his home debut holding the ball up and being an all-round nuisance. He won our first penalty and was unlucky not to get a goal. He’s been a brilliant addition and a top lad too! It was great to see Morty (Connor Mort) bring up his 9th and 10th of the season - an incredible return from full-back - and I was delighted to see Dyl (Dylon Bennett) grab a rare goal as well,” Seeley added.

“It’s been an incredible start to Step 6 and the lads are thoroughly enjoying the challenges of each game. Also a massive thanks to all 292 that came out on Boxing Day to show their support - it doesn’t go unnoticed. We’ll need you all in January - we have a very busy month ahead with eight fixtures! And a massive thank you to all the volunteers at the club for all the hard work they have done in 2025. Wishing everyone a Happy New Year!”

Knowle Score Nine to Claim Top Spot

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 17:28:40 GMT

7th December 2025: Knowle FC 9-0 Allexton & New Parks

George Revell reports as Knowle preserve their outstanding record and march into first place…

Knowle climbed to the summit of Midland Football League Division One with an incredible 9-0 demolition of Allexton & New Parks at the Draintech Community Stadium.

Early goals from George Seeley and Hayden Purves set the Robins on their way before two quick-fire spot-kicks from Brady Floyd and Connor Mort put Knowle in a very commanding position at half-time. Floyd added another after the break before four late finishes from MD Shimul put the gloss - if it wasn’t there already - on a superb Knowle performance.

Knowle have now won each and every one of their last 15 league matches, and a common theme in those victories is their ability to start fast. Nothing changed here, with Seeley helping them to a 12th-minute lead. The striker charged towards goal and rounded visiting goalkeeper Austin Parish before prodding into an open net. The Robins’ top scorer forced Parish into a fantastic diving stop four minutes later, too. Floyd drove 50 yards down the right channel before pulling back for Seeley, who arrowed a shot towards the top-left corner which Parish did extremely well to keep out.

Parish couldn’t stop Knowle from doubling their lead in the 20th minute, though. Seeley’s wicked right-wing corner was met by Floyd, who found the net with a powerful header that Parish could do nothing about despite getting a hand to it.

Toby Scott then came off worse in a collision with Dany Quaglia on 37 minutes, and after receiving treatment, he made way for Talib Copeland. It didn’t take long for Copeland to make an impact. Just seven minutes after coming on, Ashley Jones - who should have known better - brought the skilful winger down in the penalty area, and Purves rifled the resulting spot-kick into the top-left corner.

You would have expected Jones to learn from the first challenge, but he again brought down Copeland in the box to gift-wrap Knowle another penalty in first-half stoppage time. Mort neatly slotted home to give the Robins a four-goal advantage going in at the break. Christmas had come early for the Robins and Jones was providing the presents - the Allexton man was given a second yellow for the challenge to heap the misery upon his team.

There was no change in tempo after half-time and Knowle almost had a fifth inside 52 minutes. Mort’s teasing through ball was smartly flicked on by Floyd before reaching Purves, who couldn’t quite guide his low effort past Parish.

It was Parish who presented Knowle with their next chance when his poor goal kick dropped straight to Copeland. The lively winger skipped in and out of defenders before a loose ball reached Shimul, who leaned back and fired inches over the crossbar.

Knowle did have a fifth in the 59th minute though, and it was one of the simplest goals Floyd will ever score. Seeley worked the ball across the penalty area before it deflected off Parish into Floyd’s path, leaving him with a tap-in from three yards. Knowle were already five up - and it could easily have been more - and not even Shimul himself could have predicted the half-hour that would follow.

You could probably forgive Shimul for his earlier miss if you knew he was about to score four goals in the space of 25 minutes.

His first - and Knowle’s sixth - came on 62 minutes after Copeland found space down the left to square into a jam-packed penalty area. Shimul collected and set himself before unleashing a left-footed strike into the bottom-left corner.

Knowle should have had another penalty eight minutes later when Copeland was forced to the floor. The onrushing Parish wiped out the Knowle man - who was clean through on goal - surely out of pure frustration, but the referee waved play on and awarded a goal kick. Copeland had every right to feel hard done by.

Shimul made it seven in the 79th minute and nobody watching could argue they didn’t deserve it. A delightful cross-field ball from Dylon Bennett reached Mort down the right, who cut back for Shimul to smash into the roof of the net. The winger was having plenty of fun at this point, and he rounded Parish before confidently tapping home to complete his hat-trick just five minutes after scoring his second.

Shimul added his fourth in style on 86 minutes. Substitute Odane Barnes laid the ball off and Shimul simply had to side-foot into the gaping goal for Knowle’s ninth of the afternoon.

The Robins couldn’t quite find that magic 10, but it was a game to remember for everyone in attendance.

Catch us if you can.

Knowle Reach Cup Semi-Finals With Impressive Win Over Gornal

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 09:26:28 GMT

18th November 2025: Gornal Athletic 1-2 Knowle FC

George Revell reports as Knowle dump table-toppers Gornal out of the cup…

Knowle booked their place in the semi-finals of the Birmingham County FA Midweek Floodlit Cup with an impressive 2-1 win over Gornal Athletic at the Garden Walk Stadium.

Gornal sit top of Knowle’s league at the time of writing, but the hosts didn’t show many signs of a side who had only lost on home soil once so far this season.

The Robins limited Gornal to very little on the whole, apart from a brief period at the end of the first half.

Mitch Botfield emphatically cancelled out George Seeley’s early opener just before half-time, but Knowle did more than enough to win and a second-half goal from MD Shimul made sure they did.

Knowle started brightly and were good value for their lead when top scorer Seeley finished off a delightful looping cross from Talib Copeland in the 13th minute.

Seeley came close to doubling Knowle’s lead two minutes later following a neat cut-back from Odane Barnes, and lively left-winger Copeland rattled the crossbar with a header from the resulting corner.

Barnes was again the architect of another fantastic opportunity midway through the first half, when he would have threaded Copeland into a one-on-one with goalkeeper Reece Francis had it not been for an excellent tackle from defender Declan Bibb on his return to the Gornal XI.

Copeland returned the favour to Barnes on the half-hour mark - and this time it did go in, but the fourth official raised his flag for an offside in the build-up.

The wide man saw another couple of shots blocked in the minutes after the disallowed goal but he played one very casual pass backwards which invited an intense period of Gornal pressure with eight minutes to play until half-time.

Chances were few and far between for the hosts up until this point but Botfield soon made Knowle pay with a low drive into the bottom-left corner in the 40th minute.

Half-time came at just the right time for Knowle, who needed the break to compose themselves so they could build on what was, in the bigger scheme of things, a very good first-half performance.

The second half didn’t have quite as much intensity as the first, but the visitors were still much better than their table-topping opponents.

Knowle regained the advantage in the 65th minute when Copeland’s strike was parried by Gornal goalkeeper Francis before the ball evaded an onrushing player from either team, and substitute Shimul appeared to attempt to block a defensive clearance - but in doing so, the ball bounced off his shin and into the back of the net.

Robins stopper Matt Horton scuffed a goal-kick on the wet ground with 12 minutes to play in Dudley and the ball ended up falling kindly for Brad Ward to shoot, but Horton made up for his mistake by remarkably keeping the forward’s effort out.

The visitors professionally dealt with everything that came their way in the closing stages, and - to the home fans’ frustrations - secured a much more comfortable win than they were expecting.

Joint manager Matt Seeley shared his take after Knowle battled to another hard-fought win…

“It was a classic midweek cup match,” he reflected. “We started the game really well and dominated the first 35 minutes, deservedly going 1-0 up.

“There were arguments at the time, but after watching it back, both goals we scored in the first half (including the one that was ruled out) look onside. It’s fair to say we felt hard done by - especially when Gornal got on top in the last 10 minutes of the first half and grabbed an equaliser.

“In truth, the second half was a poor spectacle,” Matt admitted. “But we earned our luck, found the winner and a place in the semis!

“If you told me (at the start of the season) that at the end of November, we’d be sitting one point off top with a game in hand and in the semis of the cup, I’d have laughed!

“There are so many people who deserve credit - the management team, the staff, the volunteers and of course the players. They have all contributed to the incredible journey we are on.”

Matt summed the whole story up perfectly with one line at the end of his post-match interview…

“We’re loving every minute and long may that continue!”

Knowle FC Achieves FA 3-Star Status

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:32:24 GMT

Recognition for the hard work of all our volunteers is well deserved

Knowle FC are proud to announce that following the accreditation window assessment over the past two weeks, the club has been upgraded and awarded 3-Star Accredited Club status by the FA. The 3-Star grading is part of the Football Accreditation Programme which recognises clubs that demonstrate exceptional standards in governance, coaching, safeguarding, player development, and community engagement.

The Robins join an exclusive group of clubs at the top level of the FA’s national framework. Knowle FC are only the 20th club (out of 1,200) within the Birmingham County FA, and within the top 325 (out of 20,000) clubs across the country, this is a remarkable achievement for a community-based, volunteer-led Step 6 club.

Club Chairman Stuart Lanyon commented:

“This is fantastic recognition for everyone involved at Knowle FC, from our volunteers and coaches to our players and supporters. Achieving 3-Star accreditation shows that we are operating at the highest standards both on and off the pitch. We’re incredibly proud to join such a select group of clubs, and it’s a real testament to the hard work and dedication that goes into making Knowle FC a true community club.”

Lanyon continued:

“We should rightly celebrate this moment. As we head into our centenary year and continue our ambitious plans, including our floodlight installation, this award adds further momentum to everything we’re building. It’s also a great time for local businesses and partners to get involved and be part of Knowle FC’s journey.”

Achieving 3-Star accreditation underlines the club’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and high-quality football environment for players of all ages. It recognises excellence in areas such as coaching qualifications, player pathways, club management, and community development, all of which reflect the FA’s vision for sustainable grassroots football. The club would like to extend a huge well done and thank you to all our volunteers who make all of the above happen, week in, week out; hopefully you are extremely proud to see this recognition of everything you put in to Knowle FC!

Knowle Jump Into Second With Another Win Over Copsewood

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 17:47:11 GMT

11th November 2025: Knowle FC 3-0 Copeswood Coventry

George Revell reports as three first-half goals sink the visitors…

Knowle leapfrogged Sutton United into second place with an impressive 3-0 win over Coventry Copsewood in treacherous conditions under the lights at the Draintech Community Stadium on Armistice Day.

Quick-fire goals from Connor Mort and George Seeley set the Robins on their way before Callum Scott added another in the 33rd minute to ensure Knowle would extend their winning streak to 13 league matches.

The pitch was deemed playable in the hours leading up to kick-off, but the rain really started to pour as the players wrapped up their warm-ups with 15 minutes to go - and that made things a whole lot more difficult for both sides.

Those who made the ultimate sacrifice were remembered with an impeccably observed minute’s silence before Copsewood got the game underway in torrential rain.

Truth be told, it was quite an even first quarter-hour with few moments of note at either end, but the game started to open up after that - and Knowle found the breakthrough 17 minutes in. Brady Floyd was brought down in the box and Mort wasted no time rifling the spot-kick into the top-right corner.

Copsewood looked disheartened after the opener and Knowle made them pay just two minutes later. Talib Copeland raced down the right before teeing up top scorer Seeley to stab home his 14th goal of the season.

Knowle continued to play on the front foot despite their two-goal lead and added a third 12 minutes before half-time. Floyd neatly played Scott into a one-on-one with Manuel, and the midfielder stayed cool to slot home on his return to the XI.

For the away side, former Robin Taylor Blythe turned away from goalscorer Scott and unleashed an audacious effort from 30 yards before the interval, but it was never going to trouble Matt Horton in the Knowle goal.

Knowle got the game back underway after half-time, and although it might not have appeared it, by then the pitch was in far worse shape than just a couple of hours earlier.

Experienced defender Jack Duggan lost his footing on the rain-soaked surface two minutes after the restart - not one of the 156 in attendance could blame him - and had it not been for a great block from Mort, Copsewood substitute Sam Ellis might have had a glimpse of goal.

Another Copsewood sub, Paddy McCroray, fired a free-kick just over the bar midway through the second half, while Robins sub Owain Taylor almost added a fourth late on after some neat play following a throw-in.

Ultimately, though, Knowle managed the game superbly once again - securing a fourth win over the Copses this season in extremely difficult conditions. That’s a hallmark of promotion-winning teams.

We are undoubtedly in the midst of some very exciting times in B93.

Under the Lights, On the Up: Knowle See Off Chelmsley in Style

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 10:15:25 GMT

4th November 2025: Knowle FC 3-0 Chelmsley Town

George Revell reports as the Robins mark a historic night with a resounding win…

“Look out folks - Knowle FC are on the up!”

That was the message the Robins delivered as they capped off one of the best nights in the club’s 99-year history with an emphatic 3-0 win over Chelmsley Town at the Draintech Community Ground.

There was some uncertainty over the suitability of the playing surface in the hours leading up to kick-off due to the relentless rain - a pitch inspection even took place - but not even referee Abde Chourakane was going to stop Knowle from winning in style on their big night.

Connor Mort scored the historic first goal under the new floodlights and Toby Scott found another midway through the second half before Odane Barnes put the icing on the cake deep in stoppage time.

Despite the pouring rain, Knowle came out with an intensity to them and forced visiting goalkeeper Connor Hill into a very good save inside three minutes.

Toby Scott - later named man of the match - aimed a looping cross towards the far post where George Seeley was waiting. Seeley - who scored his 50th goal for the club and, coincidentally, the club’s 50th goal of the season last weekend - would have headed the Robins in front had it not been for some alert reactions from Hill to palm the ball away with his left hand.

A devastating flurry forward four-and-a-half minutes later almost saw Hayden Purves give Knowle the lead after being threaded through down the right by Barnes - but his effort went just past the far post.

Hill was called into action again three minutes later to keep out Seeley’s effort after a delightful lofted ball down the right was effortlessly plucked out of the sky by Barnes and squared into Knowle’s top scorer.

Martin McCarthy, the Deputy Mayor of Solihull, was in attendance and Knowle treated him to a goal after 25 minutes. Purves’ corner from the left into a packed six-yard box was met by Mort, who headed home emphatically to claim the honour of scoring the first goal under the floodlights.

A delightful Knowle move eight minutes later ended with Seeley firing just wide of the left-hand post and the first half came to a close without Chelmsley managing even a half-chance.

Knowle continued to battle the elements after the restart and deservedly doubled their lead with 17 minutes plus stoppages to play. Tidy work from Robins substitute Mo Shimul down the right saw him get the better of Chelmsley left-back Harry Jackson before teeing up T. Scott to finish very smartly.

The hosts continued to push forward throughout the remainder of the game and Barnes put the gloss on an already fantastic night for the Robins 10 minutes into stoppage time.

An inviting through ball from Talib Copeland found Barnes, who rounded Chelmsley stopper Hill before stabbing into an empty net, prompting joyous scenes in B93 as Knowle made it 12 league wins on the bounce.

Joint manager Matt Seeley expressed his delight post-match about yet another dominant display from the Robins and the fantastic occasion that it was.

“It’s been an unbelievable night for the club under our new floodlights,” Matt reflected. “But it would have been an anti-climax had the boys not put up a performance to match the occasion - and they came through it in style!

“I thought we controlled the game from start to finish - and if it wasn’t for some rushed finishing, we could’ve gone in at half-time three up.

“Chelmsley came out much better in the second half and it was difficult for us to break them down, but we’d spoken about being patient in possession and waiting for the opportunity to hurt them - and that’s exactly how the second goal came about.

“It was fantastic to have Odane (Barnes) back fit - and back in the goals - after a spell out with a damaged rib. Seeing him notch our third goal capped the night off brilliantly.

“A huge credit needs to go to the players, staff and all of our incredible volunteers who’ve made this possible and set the scene for a night to remember.”

Jim Dowding, Girls Secretary at Knowle FC, also shared his take:

“I was obviously looking forward to our first Knowle game under the new lights, so didn’t hesitate to put my name forward for gate duties,” he explained.

“When Tuesday evening finally arrived, though, it was a very wet one, and there were obvious concerns over how the pitch would hold up - as well as whether anyone would come to watch! I therefore approached the Draintech with mixed emotions, half expecting the game to be called off before it even started.

“However, the referee gave the go-ahead and, all of a sudden - despite the long-awaited moment - we were off.”

Jim was full of praise for the complete Knowle side he saw.

“I hadn’t seen the Men play in a while, although of course I’d been following their progress and, like many others, been really impressed with their run of form in this higher league.”

“But seeing them play - how tight they are as a team, how deft and intelligent they are as players - was quite something. Could Knowle do it under the pressure of a historic game, in the pouring rain, on a wet pitch and in difficult conditions? Those were the questions before kick-off - and wow, didn’t Knowle answer them all with a hugely resounding yes?!

“The atmosphere was electric, and the crowd came out despite the rain - including Deputy Solihull Mayor! Chelmsley Town, I thought, put up a good fight. Knowle approached the game without any sign of complacency and, in the end, the younger, less experienced opposition were clinically and professionally dispatched.

“I was very proud of the Men and of what they and their coaching team have achieved for Knowle FC,” Jim continued. “We were excellent in all departments, with no obvious weak points or vulnerabilities. Some fresh legs appeared later in the second half, but the quality of the football was by no means diminished. On the contrary, we continued to create chances and take the game to Chelmsley, showing our strength in depth."

Jim also praised Club Chairman Stuart Lanyon for his leadership behind the project. “The lights have put us on the footballing map, and massive credit must go to Stuart, our Chairman, as well as the many others who have supported him. Ultimately, it’s been Stu who’s driven this through.

But there’s no good in being on the map if you can’t deliver - and Knowle delivered a hugely entertaining match and an emphatic message to those taking note: look out, folks - Knowle FC are on the up!”

Knowle FC Floodlights!

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 10:13:08 GMT

Save the date & join us for the big switch on- 4th November

On Tuesday 4th November, Knowle FC play Chelmsley Town FC at home in MFL Division One. It's a 7.45pm kick off and will be the first time our new floodlights are used for a game. It's therefore more than just a match, this moment has been decades in the making and the result of countless hours, dedication and teamwork from our incredible volunteers, past & present. Thank you to everyone who has contributed over the years to this huge step forward for our club.

We're extending the invite out to join us under the lights as we celebrate the next bright chapter in our club's history. Let's pack the ground and make it a night to remember! Come down to the Draintech Community Ground for the game and cheer on your Robins.

The floodlights have been partially funded by grant from The Premier League Stadium Fund, as well as fundraising internally for many years. Thank you to those who supported our application and made it happen!

See you on the 4th!

Match Preview - Nuneaton Town 20/09/25

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 11:12:35 GMT

What you need to know before the game...

On Saturday 20th September, Knowle FC welcome Nuneaton Town to the Draintech Community Ground for a second round qualifying match in the Isuzu FA Vase.

It's 29 years since Knowle last competed in this round of the competition and the team are excited by the prospect of making more history. Nuneaton Town represent a really tough test however so it's set up to be a big game and a cracking watch!

Both sides come into the game in fine form. Knowle have seven wins on the bounce and sitting in third place in MFL Division One. They have been excellent in defence, conceding the fewest goals in the league and goals have been shared out round the team; skipper George Seeley has eight, with Talib Copeland and Zak Parsons just behind on seven each. Seven goals from the backline also highlight their threat at set pieces.

Nuneaton Town play in the United Counties Premier League season, which is one step above Knowle in the pyramid at Step 5. The team have had a superb start to the season, sitting top of the table and currently unbeaten. They too have the best defensive record in their league, and also boast the highest number of goals scored, Kyle Jardine the big threat with twelve from twelve so far.

Basic match details are as follows:

Kick off - 3pm

Ground open - 1pm

Gate fee - £7 adults, £4 concessions, £3 parking

Bar & clubhouse open for hot & cold drinks and snacks.

Food truck on site - Steak Bites UK

We are expecting a large crowd for this game, so please be mindful of arriving in good time, walking, car sharing or using public transport where possible and being considerate to both other match attendees and local residents.

There is some limited parking at the ground, this will be filled on a first come, first served basis. Please park carefully to ensure we can maximise the space available and fit as many supporters in as possible. If supporters are planning on arriving early before the ground is open, or once space in the ground is full, we advise supporters to use the pay & display car parks in Knowle:

Knowle and Dorridge car parks | Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

We would suggest the Shoppers Car Park at rear of Greswolde House is the the best option, and is only a 10 minute walk to the ground. For anyone choosing to park on local streets, please do so considerately and be mindful of access and space for residents.

For any supporters arriving early, there are plenty of pubs and bars in Knowle, and places to get food. The Wilsons Arms is the nearest pub, situated on the corner of High Street & Hampton Road, this is a Toby Carvery. The Vaults is a proper old school pub serving a great beer selection. There's also the Red Lion which will serve pub food and drinks. Cafes for a sandwich and a coffee include Freda's Deli & Elderberry Blacks. All of these are in walking distance from the ground. You can find out more about where to go in Knowle at Visit Knowle, home of Independent businesses and retailers

Knowle FC is run entirely by volunteers on matchday. Due to the anticipated crowd at this game, we have bought in some extra volunteers but there is still finite space in the bar and certain facilities around the ground where it is likely we'll be working at maximum capacity. Please be patient when required, and treat all volunteers with the kindness and respect they deserve.

Knowle FC Launch Inclusive "Just Be You" Progamme

stuart@lanyon.co.uk (Stuart Lanyon) — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 11:46:51 GMT

Sponsors Etac on board to support

Knowle FC are pleased to announce the launch of their "Just Be You" programme, as part of the FA's Comets and Disability initiatives. Following the success of some free taster sessions over Easter, we can confirm that sessions will return from 2nd August, and run every Saturday lunchtime at the club's Draintech Community Ground, B93 0NX.

The sessions will be a safe space for children with neurodiversity or non-visible disabilities aged 5-16 to enjoy playing in a non-competitive environment; be that kickstarting or continuing their love of the game and their journey within football.

To book onto the sessions, please visit the following links:

Age 5-11 - https://bit.ly/KJBY5-11

Age 12-16 - https://bit.ly/KJBY12-15

We are also thrilled to announce that Etac Group, a world leading developer of assistive devices, have come on board to sponsor the programme. Their support will be invaluable in delivering opportunities to play across our community, and we would like to thank them for their magnificent support

Dave Sykes Award Winners 2024/25

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 12:04:53 GMT

Congratulations to the new names on our honours board

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Dan Lowe Appointed Marketing, PR & Communications Manager

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 08:05:12 GMT

Club continue to build off the pitch

Ahead of the 2025 / 2026 season, Knowle Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Dan Lowe as its new Marketing, PR & Communications Manager. Dan brings a wealth of expertise in community engagement, communications, and marketing, a perfect match for a historic and ambitious football club.

Established in 1926, Knowle FC has grown into a thriving community hub for local sport. The Club now comprises 31 teams, over 100 adult players and over 400 junior players. Based at The Draintech Community Ground, Knowle FC plays a key role in developing talent, strengthening friendships, and instilling a lifelong love for the game.

Dan’s appointment signals a new era for the Club. His responsibilities will include developing and implementing a clear communications strategy, strengthening relationships with the local community and businesses, and raising the profile of the Club’s extensive initiatives, from its rich matchday traditions to its comprehensive junior sections and soon to be launched non-visible disability pathway.

“Dan’s expertise will be a huge asset to us as we continue to grow and celebrate all that makes Knowle FC special, from our rich history dating back nearly 100 years to the remarkable community we serve today,” Stuart Lanyon Chairman for Knowle FC commented. Stuart went on to say, “We’re excited to see him bring his passion, creativity and drive to the role.”

Dan Lowe added, “I’m delighted to be joining a Club with such deep roots and a strong future. The opportunity to tell the stories of our players, coaches, volunteers and supporters is a privilege. I’m looking forward to strengthening the Club’s profile, helping sponsors leverage their exposure and deepening its connection with the community we serve.”

New Ladies Management Team!

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 12:55:04 GMT

Welcome Ryan & Harriet

Following the end of the 24/25 season, Ladies First Team manager Reece Crowton stepped down from his role. Reece has had a change in personal circumstances which means he cannot commit to the role going forward. The club would like to send best wishes to Reece and thank him for all of his work last season.

The club committee are delighted to confirm that a process has taken place to appoint a new management team for 25/26 and beyond. Knowle FC can announce that Ryan Mountford joins us as manager and Harriet Smith as coach. They will join existing coach Ben Maxwell and player coach Trina Greaves in a significantly strengthened ladies leadership team for the new season. Ryan and Harriet have plenty of experience of senior women's and junior girls football, most recently at Leafield. They are keen to ensure there are strong links throughout Knowle's pathway, but obviously particularly focused on helping the girls from under 16s upwards to develop into the ladies first team. We wish them the best of luck, and a warm welcome to the Knowle family!

Open sessions will be held at the end of June for any new players looking to join the club; please contact Ryan on 07507 794797 if you would like to come along.

Ronald Crane - Rest in Peace

Sun, 11 May 2025 19:49:41 GMT

A tribute to our friend, Ron.

It is with the deepest sorrow Knowle FC must share the sad news of the passing of Ronald Crane. For the last three years, Ron has been the Men’s First Team Match Secretary, but his time in football extends over many decades, many clubs and touched many people.

His dedication and passion for football were beyond question. His warmth of welcome to visiting teams and officials, along with the ever-present biscuits ensured he was well known and liked within the football community. His dry and, at times, wicked sense of humour, was matched only by his attention to detail and sense of right and wrong.

He was, to all at the club, a larger-than-life character. The perfect example of a person who without which , the game of football would be unable to function, nor be as rich as it is. Ron’s passing will leave a massive hole in our lives and hearts.

But most importantly of all, our condolences, our thoughts, and our deepest love go to his family. You shared Ron with us, and we are forever in your debt.

Sponsor Spotlight - PGS Global

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 12:52:56 GMT

Long standing sponsors still backing Knowle FC

In the sponsor spotlight today, we have one of the club’s longest standing supporters, PGS Global. Knowle Football Club would like to extend a big thank you to PGS Global for generously sponsoring our Girls U18 Wasps and Boys U15 Lions teams this season. Your support means the world to us, helping us perform our best on the pitch while PGS continues to deliver exceptional service on the roads.

PGS is a versatile transport and warehousing company that has been a leader in the industry for over 35 years. Founded by Paul Eyles, the company has developed a dynamic and efficient system for product delivery and storage, making it a trusted partner for various sectors.

With a fleet over 100 owned vehicles, PGS Global handles a wide range of services, from small parcels to large pallets, all within the PGS umbrella. The company’s headquarters in Kitts Green boasts the capacity to house 15,000 pallets.

Further solidifying its commitment to sustainability, GS has invested in an eco-powered hub at Brandon Way which has a 12,500 pallet capacity. The hub is powered by solar panels and a 500kw battery storage, representing the company’s ongoing dedication to carbon-neutral service.

To find out more about PGS, check out their website at https://www.pgsglobal.co.uk/

The club’s Commercial Manager, Sam Smith explained “PGS are one of our most committed partners, having sponsored a team over a number of years now. Working with local businesses over a sustained period of time gives us the security and confidence to plan for teams over long term, hence the Wasps and Lions have both developed over time and are now the senior teams of our respective girls and boys sections. We’re really grateful to PGS for their backing over the years!”

With the U18 Wasps aging out our junior football at the end of this season, the PGS shirt will be the last Knowle shirt some of those players own; very fitting, considering the support they have offered the club. Thank you PGS!

Robins Do Enough

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 11:46:18 GMT

22nd March 2025: Knowle 2-0 Coventry Alvis

Ronald Crane reports from the Draintech Community Ground

This, the Robins’ final home League match of the season, drew a large crowd, knowing that nothing but a win would do.

They began in this vein, and set about their business with gusto. Early chances went begging, but then the impressive Barnes passed to Parsons, who scored with ease with eleven minutes on the clock.

There were more chances, and the goal posts and cross bar were hit too many times. It was the old story of missed chances. Nevertheless, Alvis had more possession perhaps, yet in the first half never got near the Robins’ goal, Nathan Taylor, making his debut in the home side's goal, had little to trouble him.

Although Knowle were comfortable and in control, it was not until then second minute of added time at the close of the first-half that they were able to extend the lead. Clutterbuck, the Alvis ‘Keeper brought down Odane Barnes in the Area, it was a clear penalty, and Zak Parsons duly dispatched it into the back of the net.

The second-half followed a similar pattern until after the hour mark when Alvis made a series of substitutions. They certainly made an improvement, and the visitors had their best spell, creating good chances that required Taylor to be on his mettle.

In the end, The Robins’ were worthy of their victory, and set up a mouth-watering match at Northfield Town on 5 ^th April. Assuming Northfield win their matches before that date, that encounter will be simple. Knowle need to win to take the championship by a point. A draw or a defeat hand the top spot to Northfield, providing they then take the required points from their final two games.

Knowle FC: N Taylor; Rainey (O Taylor); Powell; Record; Dudley; Bennett; Mullen (Burston-Keeley); Drake-Cervantes; Rendell (Corry); Parsons [ 11 & 45+2p ] (Stone); Barnes.

Subs not used: Oscar Slater

Ladies Forced To Settle For A Point

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 22:59:24 GMT

16th March 2025: Knowle LFC 1-1 Alvechurch

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Poor Start Costs Knowle Ladies

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 15:03:03 GMT

9th March 2025: Alvechurch 5-1 Knowle LFC

Knowle Ladies crashed to another defeat last weekend as they were beaten 5-1 away at Alvechurch. A better second half showing gave them belief, but the damage had been done in the first period.

The home side went ahead as early as the third minute, when Alvechurch launched a long ball over the top that caught Knowle cold; the forward raced through to finish well. The Robins did try to respond, and Trina Greaves sent a shot wide but the game became increasingly scrappy with most of the play in the midfield areas. Jess Jenkinson made a great save to deny Alvechurch a second, but that only delayed proceedings. Knowle lost possession in a dangerous area, the cross came in and Morgan Betteridge could only divert the ball into her own net. With sixteen minutes on the clock, Knowle looked in real trouble.

The closest Knowle came to clawing one back was when Nadia Bacciochi's corner swung towards goal and landed on top of the netting, but Alvechurch were definitely in the ascendency. Their third goal came from another long ball forward; Jenkinson came from goal to try and clear but the angle simply allowed the forward to roll it into the unguarded net from distance. Half time saw the Robins go in three behind.

Knowle did improve in the second half and a bright start allowed Natalie Gibson to go close with a long range effort that the keeper did well to turn over. Alvechurch then scored with their first real foray into the Knowle area, with the home side's striker producing a neat bit of skill to turn her marker and fire home.

The Robins continued to try and take some sort of foothold in the game, and Bacciochi pulled a stunning save from the Alvechurch keeper on the 70 minute mark. Darcey Garner looped in the resulting corner, and skipper Sam Smith was on hand to nod it into the corner of the net and pull one back for her team.

As the match entered the final stages, Knowle's thin squad began to tire and Alvechurch seized the majority of possession. Their fifth and final goal did have a slice of luck involved; player of the match Carly Donnelly slid in to make a superb challenge on the attacker who had rounded Jenkinson, but the ball ricocheted between the two player and somehow trickled over the line.

The home side were well deserving of their comprehensive win however, and although Knowle saw some reasons to be positive in the second half, they know they will need to improve considerably in next week's return fixture.

Knowle: Jenkinson, Phelps, Smith, Hughes, Betteridge (Donnelly, 30), Greaves (Noakes 45), Atter, Barlow, Rolph, Gibson, Bacciochi (Garner, 30).

Same Story for Knowle Again

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 10:32:59 GMT

8th March 2025: Central Ajax 1-1 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from The Home Guard Club

For the second week running The Robins only have themselves to blame for this loss of two valuable points. On a heavy, bumpy and difficult pitch, only in the final twenty minutes of the match did they look anything like The Robins we know and love.

Central Ajax took the match by the scruff of the neck and pressed home their advantage. On nine minutes, slack marking on The Robins’ right allowed Ross Bennett far too much space. He was able to cut inside, and score from nineteen yards. He took his chance supremely well, but should never had had the space in which to do so. It would prove to be decisive, as it was the only time in the whole match that the home side managed to get a shot on target.

Gradually, The Robins took control of the first half, but without playing the brand of football for which they have become known this season. The men in blue could only manage one shot on target in the first period. Nathan Corry turning home a corner two minutes into added time prior to the break.

The second half was all Knowle, yet only when the final whistle drew near did they really turn the screw. The best chance fell to substitute Jay Rendell. Odane Barnes sent over a peach of a cross form the right, Jay was in a perfect position four yards out, and with an open goal, he hit the bar!

Ajax players put their bodies on the line to block and clear shots, but offered precious little up front, relying on the break.

Central Ajax had one shot on target that produced one goal. Knowle had ten shots on target and could only manage one goal.

Knowle FC: Slater; Taylor (Stone); Powell; Clarke ©; Dudley; T Scott; Purves (Shimul); Drake-Cervantes; Barnes; Corry [45+2 ] (Parsons); Burston-Keeley (Rendell)

Robins Rue Missed Chances

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 09:59:48 GMT

1st March 2025: Coventrians 0-0 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from The Colliery

Was it the bumpy playing surface? Was it the disjointed nature of the First-Half? Was it losing Jack Duggan after just three minutes? It was none of these. The reason the Robins did not win this game was simply that they created a host of chances, but did not take one of them.

Knowle were on top throughout the match, superior in every department except goal scoring. Especially in the first half, Knowle were totally dominant. Chances came, and chances went. Even with an unguarded goal, they could not finish even from inside the six-yard box.

The second half was an anti-climax. Knowle seemed to have gone off the boil, and although Coventrians came into the game, their play was restricted to mid-field. They had precious little to offer up front.

This was in marked contrast to the first-half. With just three minutes on the clock, Jack Duggan sank to the ground with hamstring trouble, to be replaced by Zak Parsons. On ten minutes the match was stopped for dog faeces to be removed. The home side had to replace Blackhall on twenty minutes, and there were numerous other disruptions to play. None of this helped, but none of these stoppages caused Knowle players to squander so many chances. By the time we reached the break Knowle ought to have been out of sight.

Apart from the defence, which was as solid as ever and denied the home side from ever seriously troubling Oscar Slater in goal, in mid-field and up front, Knowle were well below par.

In addition to Jack Duggan’s injury, Zak Parsons and George Seeley have gone to hospital. Zak has a nasty cut on his foot, while George is suffering from a sprained ankle.

Knowle FC: Slater; Taylor (Stone); Powell; Duggan (Parsons)(Purves); Dudley; T Scott (c); Shimul; Drake-Cervantes; Barnes; G Seeley (c) (Corry); Burston-Keeley (Craine)

Burston-Keeley Tops & Tails it for Knowle

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 12:34:26 GMT

15th February 2025: Birmingham United 0-2 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from the Valley Stadium

Man of the Match Callum Burston-Keeley scored with twenty-six seconds on the clock, and again on eighty minutes to clinch three points for The Robins in this table topping fixture.

In-between we were treated to an absorbing mid-field battle, with the visitors having the better of attacking opportunities. In fact, United could only manage two shots on target, one of which demanded a top notch save from keeper Oscar Slater. At the other end, Knowle squandered several chances.

Although United pass the ball about nicely in mid-field, they had precious little to offer up front. The men in their away blues on the other hand, caused United’s defence trouble every time they ventured into enemy territory.

Knowle got off to a dream start. From kick-off, the ball was quickly moved forward for Burston-Keeley to steal in behind the defender and score with ease.

This was a good win for The Robins after the defeat last Saturday by Littleton, and it gets their promotion push back on track. The match was never a spectacle, but it was fascinating with two of the best sides in Capelli Sports Midland Football League Division Two on show. There is little doubt that the best team won.

The only worry for the Knowle management team is the awful conversion ratio of chances to goals. Fifteen shots on target formed just two goals, plus another six that were off-target. They will be comforted in the fact that their incredibly strong defence once again kept the valuable clean-sheet.

Next Saturday, Knowle take the short trip to face Earlswood Town, never an easy fixture.

Knowle FC: Slater; Taylor; Powell; Duggan; Dudley; T Scott; Purves (MD Shimul); Drake-Cervantes; Barnes; G Seeley ©(Bennett); Burston-Keeley [26 secs & 80] (Corry)

Yellow Cards: Seeley & Taylor

Mollycoddles & Eagles Pair Up!

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 16:04:35 GMT

Local Dog Daycare Sponsors Girls U8

Knowle Girls U8 Eagles started their football journey this season as a brand new team. They're already a big part of the Knowle family, representing our club brilliantly on the pitch and off. But before Christmas they experienced another milestone thanks to a local business who are also all about family; Mollycoddles Doggy Day Care stepped in to sponsor their home kit! The players were very excited to have a sponsors name on the shirts, just like the professionals do!

Mollycoddles provide a safe, loving, and stimulating environment for your furry companions. We asked owner Fionuala Taylor to share what her business offers and she told us; "Just like these young athletes need a dedicated space to train and develop their skills, our day care offers a dynamic environment where dogs can:

Develop their physical abilities: Run, play, and socialise with other dogs, much like a team training session!

Build confidence and social skills: Interact with other dogs in a controlled and supervised setting, exactly like team sports.

Enjoy the outdoors: Experience the joy of playing outdoors, just as these young Eagles do on the pitch.

We understand that every dog is unique, and we strive to create a personalised experience for each of our guests"

You can find out lots more about Mollycoddles, or book your dog's fun day at the centre by visiting the website at www.mollycoddlesdoggydaycare.com. Knowle fans should also definitely follow them on social media for updates, special offers, and adorable dog photos!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090280396262
https://www.instagram.com/mollycoddlesdoggydaycare/

Knowle FC's Commercial Officer, Sam Smith, said "Mollycoddles are exactly the sort of local business we love to get involved with our teams. The whole family are part of the club once a player joins up with one of our teams; included the four-legged members! We know Mollycoddles are fervent about the love and care they provide for all the dogs at their centre, just as we are with all our players at our club."

Fionuala added "Mollycoddles Doggy Day Care is thrilled to be sponsoring The Eagles! We're passionate about supporting our local community and fostering a love for a healthy lifestyle and physical activity in young people as well as in dogs. We believe in the importance of giving back to the community and supporting local youth sports programs." She went on to explain how sponsoring the Eagles allows Mollycoddles to do three things:

"Promote healthy lifestyles: We encourage physical activity and a love for sports.

Support female athletes: We empower young women to participate in sports and build confidence.

Build community spirit: We foster a sense of community by supporting local organisations like Knowle Football Club.

We're excited to cheer on The Eagles this season and be a part of their journey!"

Mollycoddles have already delivered on that promise and went along to support the Eagles at their game last weekend. The team enjoyed meeting them...and of course Molly herself! Manager Paul told us "The Eagles put in their best performance yet, with quality passing moves and playing high tempo football with their heads up. Having Fin and Andy from Mollycoddles there must have inspired the girls! A huge thank you to them for their sponsorship; the kit looks great!"

Do look out for the Mollycoddles team around the games in the coming weeks, and stop by to say hello and talk to them about any dog daycare needs your family may have.

Robins Suffer Sucker Punch

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 15:09:48 GMT

8th February 2025: Knowle FC 1-2 Littleton FC

How is it possible to be the better team, to outplay the opposition for 85% of the match, and yet still lose? The answer is to have twelve chances on target and score just one goal, whilst the opposition have but two chances, and take them both.

On a difficult pitch, The Robins were all over their opposition in the first half. Odane Barnes opened the scoring on nine minutes when he shot through a crowded area. For the rest of the first forty-five minutes, they were camped in Littleton’s territory. The visitors could not manage one shot on target, so dominant were Knowle.

However, all changed in the second half. Littleton decided on an attacking ploy that was as simple as it was effective. A long ball from the back, having drawn the Robins to over-commit in attack. Adam Taylor used the after-burners to outpace the red defence and shoot from eighteen yards; goal! They used this pattern twice. Once on fifty-one minutes, secondly on eighty-one minutes. The second goal being a carbon copy of the first.

Prior to Littleton’s goal, The Robins had been in total control. The goal came as a shock, and Knowle began to panic. This resulted in Littleton gaining confidence, and eventually their second goal.

Knowle slid to their first defeat of the season. The fact that this came in February with the majority of the season gone, will be of little comfort at Hampton Road. Still, the Divisional Championship is in their own hands.

The Robins still have to travel to Birmingham United (next Saturday) and Northfield Town. These two matches are as important as it gets.

Knowle FC: Slater; Stone; Powell; Clarke ©; Duddley; Drake-Cervantes (Purves); Barnes [9 ]; C Scott; Craine (Corry); T Scott; Burston-Keeley (MD Shimu).

Subs not used: Riddiford & Record

Knowle Edge Past Ajax in Close Encounter

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 18:01:12 GMT

1st February 2025: Knowle FC 2-0 Central Ajax

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground.

Matches between these two sides are always close affairs, and this one was not an exception. That The Robins progress to the Semi-Final is down to a lack of concentration by their opponents at a set piece and a late penalty. Otherwise: the action was confined to mid-field, albeit it in the visitors half of the park.

The Robins were the better side and took their chances, whilst Central Ajax could only manage one shot, and that off target. It is a testimony to the meanness of the Robins’ defence.

Played on a difficult pitch that sapped the energy from the legs, both sides valiantly kept going right to the end. There were some tired limbs in the dressing rooms afterwards.

The match was never a spectacle. But the crowd were rewarded with a magnificent display of defensive football buy the boys in red and black. Taylor, Powell, Duggan and Dudley prevented the visiting attackers ever getting within reach of the Robins’ Goalkeeper Craig Johnson. However, there were a few hairy moments when they needed to be on top form to keep Ajax at bay.

With three minutes of ordinary time to go, Craig Johnson received an injury that necessitated him being substituted by Oscar Slater, whose first job was to face a Corner. He did so with no apparent nerves.

The goals were scored at either end of the match. Joe Drake-Cervantes headed home a Corner as early as the fourth minute. While Callum Burston-Keeley dispatched a penalty with twelve minutes to go. In between it was much ado about very little.

The Robins now go into the Semi-Final with AFC Birmingham of the Capelli Sports Midland Football League Division Three.

Knowle FC: Johnson (Slater); Taylor; Powell; Dudley; Duggan ©; Drakew-Cervantes [6]; Craine; T Scott; Barnes; Parsons (Stone); Purves (Burston-Keeley [ 78P ]).

Subs not used: Riddiford & Record

Total Dominance For Robins!

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 17:57:18 GMT

24th January 2025: Knowle FC 7-0 Earlswood Town

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground

The Robins were totally dominant in this match. From beginning to end, it was all The Robins. Awarded a Penalty in the second minute, Hayden Purves dispatched it to open the scoring. Town never really recovered from this set back.

On the other hand, The Robins took full advantage. Town may have won eight nil last Saturday, but it was a different story at Hampton Road. Although they never gave up and continued to seek that elusive goal, they were totally out-classed.

If Knowle had won with an ugly performance last Saturday, this match was a different kettle of fish. They were superior in every department. A solid back four, a fluid and dominant mid-field, topped by a forward line that was a nightmare to play against.

Hayden Purves scored two including a penalty; Callum Burston-Keeley scored two, Jack Duggan one, Zak Parsons one, and Odane Barnes one. Totalling seven in all. It could have been more. Earlswood had no response, except to limit The Robins to just two goals in the second-half.

The returning Jack Duggan showed why he is such an important element in the Knowle armoury, slotting in beside Ricardo Dudley, they made a formidable pairing. Toby Scott gave a master-class in midfield. Craig Johnson had to make just two – regulation – saves.

With Northfield Town and Birmingham United playing out a two – two draw, this result leaves The Robins on fifty-nine points, with seven matches to play. Birmingham United have forty-seven points with seven matches to play. Northfield Town have forty- five points with ten matches to play.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Stone(Taylor); Powell (Riddiford); Dudley [ 6 ]; T Scott; Burston-Keeley [ 41&47 ] (Corry); Parsons [ 49 ]; Barnes [ 12 ]; G Seeley (Drake-Cervantes); Purves [ 2P&45 )

Ladies Rue Mistakes at Sporting

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 17:47:38 GMT

19th January 2025: Solihull Sporting 2-1 Knowle LFC

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Knowle Come From Behind to Sink Swifts

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 16:43:53 GMT

18th January 2025: Knowle FC 3-1 Bolehall Swifts

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Vital Win For Knowle Ladies to Kick Off a Busy December

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 13:36:19 GMT

1st December 2024: Shrewsbury Town 1-2 Knowle Ladies

It’s been a season of near misses for Knowle Ladies in the league so far, but last Sunday finally saw them pick up the points they felt their performance had deserved, with a hard fought 1-2 win away at Shrewsbury Town. A superb first half showing put them in front then they showed their mettle in the second period to keep their opponents at bay and collect the three points.

Perfect weather conditions and the 3G surface allowed both teams to play good football throughout the game; all though Knowle nearly shot themselves in the foot in the first thirty seconds of the game when a poor pass in defence sent a Town forward clear in the box. Knowle had to rely on Sam Smith getting across to cover and make the block. The Robins soon settled after this early scare and began to play some tidy passages. The majority of the opening stages were played out in midfield, with Trina Greaves and Kate Fleming instrumental is winning possession and then launching Robins’ attacks.

The first big chance of the game fell to Nellie Severin; Greaves found her out in space on the right side and Severin burst past the full back but couldn’t get any power behind her shot in order to beat the Town keeper. Knowle then did go ahead in the 17th minute when Katie Atter set the ball back to Morgan Betteridge to send in a deep cross. Jess Barlow controlled the ball well, then flicked it round the corner to Natalie Gibson, who fired her shot low into the corner of the net. Greaves was then inches away from connecting with a Gibson free kick on the far post for a tap in.

The Knowle backline were marshalling their opponents well so Shrewsbury found it difficult to create any clear-cut opportunities. One period of frantic pinball on the right side of the penalty box did cause consternation, but Maz Byrne rose high to clear the resulting corner well. The Shrewsbury keeper had to be quick off her line to stop the Knowle counter-attack, and repeated the trick soon after to steal the ball from Barlow’s toes.

A Town midfielder then went in the book for two late challenges on Smith and Molly Hughes. Those free kicks came to nothing, but when Severin was hacked down from behind 30 yards from goal after another mazy run, the ball was firmly in Gibson’s territory. She bent a super free kick beyond the reach of the keeper for her and Knowle’s second of the game.

Shrewsbury attempted to push forward more in the final ten minutes of the half, but Jess Jenkinson in the Knowle goal showed great reading of the game to leave her box and kick clear two long balls, as well as mopping up a dangerously short back pass that looked as though it would send the Shrews forward clean through. Knowle therefore felt well worth their 0-2 halftime lead.

The home side clearly had a stern talking to during the break and came out determined to get a hold on the game. Knowle managed things really well in those early stages, keeping the ball high up the pitch on the right side and taking the sting out of proceedings. Indeed, they should have extended their lead when Atter found Gibson’s feet and she rolled the ball through to Severin racing past the backline but the Shrewsbury keeper came out well to smoother her shot.

Town made a triple change on the hour mark and the substitutes did have a positive effect, causing some more issues for Knowle’s defence. The away side stayed strong however, and when the goal did come it was seemingly out of nowhere. A deep cross was thrown into the box and looked as though Jenkinson would claim, but she was unable to hold onto it and the striker tapped in the loose ball.

Knowle didn’t let this deter them and came very close to restoring their two goal lead within minutes of the restart. Severin beat the full back again then squared to Gibson but she missed the chance to notch her hattrick when she failed to get a good connection and the ball went flying harmlessly across goal. Greaves then sent two shots wide after finding space on the edge of the penalty area.

It was the away side’s turn to appear in the referee’s notebook when Betteridge and Byrne were both booked for tackles in the same passage of play, but Gibson cleared the resulting free kick easily. Sub Nadia Bacciochi was also provided more energy down the Knowle right to help her defence out, but as Knowle tired, the final ten minutes saw Shrewsbury create probably the best chances they had all game. Firstly, a corner had to be scuffed clear by Hughes on the line at the back post, before a good cut back saw the Town striker shoot straight into Jenkinson’s hands. In stoppage time, the Shrewsbury striker raced onto a long ball and although she lifted her finish over the onrushing Jenkinson, it bounced wide of the post.

The referee finally blew for full time to cue the Knowle celebrations for their 1-2 win, partially fuelled by relief of getting those all important three points on the board. A strong performance from the whole squad deserved the reward however, and the team will take confidence as they head into a month of away games.

Knowle: Jenkinson, Hughes, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Greaves, Fleming, Barlow, Atter, Severin (Bacciochi, 65), Gibson. Sub not used: Donnelly.

Knowle Bring Back Three Points From Bournville

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 16:26:37 GMT

30th November 2024: Cadbury Athletic 1-3 Knowle FC

Dave Sykes reports from Cadbury Recreation Ground

What an iconic venue for a grass roots football match Cadburys is, with the Mock Tudor changing rooms and lovely old church bell chiming a deep tone every 15 minutes. Put this together with the backdrop of the huge chocolate factory and we were all licking our lips at the prospect of the game ahead.

Good to see Lewis Rainey start at left back after an injury lay off, but rather worrying that Ricardo Dudley was missing from the heart of the Knowle defence. The Robins fans need not have worried as Knowle flew out of the blocks and created several opportunities within the first 10 minutes. Nathan Corry was really showing up well and excelled with two peaches of crosses that really ought to have resulted in goals. Corry linked well with Zak Parsons who very nearly scored when he cut across the ball to send it swerving viciously past the post. Zak’s trickery and Odane Barnes' incredible power were too much for the Cadbury side and tackles were flying in. One challenge resulted in Corry having to be substituted after half an hour.

George Seeley came on and immediately set Hayden up for two wonderful jinking runs but neither final ball could be put away. Not much was seen from the Cadbury attack and then Knowle upped their game. Four driving runs and shots at the Cadbury goal caused mayhem in the defensive ranks which finished with Callum Scott thumping the ball into the bottom corner for a very classy goal. Shortly after the goal Callum’s brother Toby was hit in the face by the ball and the referee waved ‘play on’ as blood seemed to be everywhere. Physio Dave Morrow wasn’t on the same wave length as the ref and gave his opinion about what ‘should’ have happened and duly shown the yellow card!

After half time, Knowle now looked more determined than ever, the sizeable red contingent in the crowd made themselves heard when Hayden Purves, Seeley and Barnes pinged the ball about until it appeared at Parson’s feet. He nonchalantly passed it into the goal with no one else near him! This stirred the Cadbury lads who proceeded to dominate for at least 10 minutes and then the unthinkable happened. Knowle conceded a goal! Only the 4th one this season. It was coming as it had taken a couple of smart saves from Craig Johnson to keep them out a few minutes earlier. Knowle from that point on controlled the game. The Scotts in midfield were outstanding, as was stand in centre back Joe Cervantes who settled in next to the immense Lewis Clarke brilliantly.

Callum Burston-Keeley loves to come on for twenty minutes at the end when the defences are tired and just go for it. His third attempt was set up by Toby Scott and the pacey forward just put on the after-burners and went one on one with the keeper. He smashed the ball so it hit one post, shot across to the other post then bounced high into the net. Off he goes to the corner flag, pulls the flag out and does a golf swing at a golf ball! Knowle had secured their 3 points!

KNOWLE : Johnson; Rainey; Clarke; Cervantes; Powell; Corry; Callum Scott; Toby Scott; Purves; Barnes. SUBS. Seeley; Riddiford; Hague: Stones; Burston-Keeley & Slater;

County Cup Joy for KLFC

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 17:44:00 GMT

17th November 2024: Knowle Ladies 2-1 Solihull Moors

Led out by the U10 Spitfires, Knowle approached the County Cup tie with local rivals Solihull Moors in confident mood, despite the opposition sitting one league higher in the pyramid than the Robins. Their confidence turned out not to be misplaced as they secured a 2-1 victory and went through to the next round.

The two sides were evenly matched in the opening period, with much of the play in midfield and both defences restricting any clear opportunities; Maz Byrne reacted smartly to clear Knowle's lines when Moors did threaten. The first real chance of the game fell to Knowle; Molly Hughes and Nellie Severin combined to win possession on the left side, then some neat interplay between Natalie Gibson and Trina Greaves finished with the latter chipping a superb ball into the box for Katie Atter to run onto. She beat the keeper Georgie Buttle, but her shot rolled just wide of the post. Atter then nearly turned provider, with a dangerous cross than Solihull scrambled away.

Moors also had the chance to open the scoring when Evie Quinn skipped round a couple of challenges and drove into the box, but Jess Jenkinson in the Knowle goal shut down the narrow angle. The away side did then go ahead from a corner; Lexi Blaxland rose at the front post to black a header on and it looped in at the far post. Blaxland was unable to celebrate after a nasty head collision with marker Ella Bridges, but both players were back on their feet after treatment.

As Knowle looked back to get on level terms, Greaves saw a shot saved by Buttle in the Moors goal and then lost her footing after being set up by Bridges. Knowle suffered a blow soon after however, when Bridges was on the wrong end of a strong challenge and had to substituted; it was confirmed after the game that she had torn her MCL and will be out until the new year.

The conditions became murkier and chances were non-existent for either side as the half wore on, though Knowle felt aggrieved when Buttle picked up what looked like a back pass from Alex Liddiard, but the referee deemed it unintentional. It seemed as though Moors would maintain their lead through to the break, until the very last minute when Knowle’s equaliser came. Sophie Noakes cross caused issues and Knowle won a corner. Morgan Betteridge’s delivery curled wickedly towards the goal and keeper Buttle was unable to claw it away before it crossed the line; Greaves made sure by smashing home the loose ball and saving any protests.

As the second half kicked off, the weather worsened with heavy rain affecting the surface plus the biting cold made it tough conditions for all the players. The defences were on top, with Knowle grateful to Kate Fleming who got the slightest touch to nudge the ball away from a Moors forward who would have had all the goal to aim at. Solihull hit a few long range attempts but Jenkinson’s handling was impeccable, especially considering the conditions.

At the other end, Moors’ Daina Scott made a great challenge to stop Severin in her tracks, then Greaves bent one just over the bar. Knowle’s best chance fell to Trina Greaves who made a marauding run down the right side before hitting a low shot that was inches wide.

The rain got even heavier and the gloom set in as the half wore on, and the game looked heading towards penalties with neither side able to force a proper chance. But with 79 minutes on the clock, following a Knowle corner, Severin teed up Gibson on the edge of the penalty area and she lobbed the keeper with an inch perfect shot that dropped just under the bar to put her side 2-1 up.

Moors threw everything they could at the home in the last ten minutes, but Knowle stood firm; clearing lines and keeping possession when they could. Hearts were in mouths in the last minute when a good drive forward from Moors’ Georgia Neath allowed her to send in a great cross, but Molly Watters resulting shot flew just over the bar. That was it for Moors, and the referee blew for full time soon after, sending Knowle through as 2-1 winners.

Knowle: Jenkinson, Betteridge (Donnelly, 80), Byrne, Smith (Phelps, 70), Hughes, Bridges (Noakes, 35), Fleming (Barlow, 70), Greaves, Atter, Gibson, Severin.

Welcome Bright & Beautiful!

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 11:34:05 GMT

New Sponsor for U16 Phoenix

This week’s sponsor spotlight shines on a new partnership at Knowle FC – say hello to Bright & Beautiful who are sponsoring our U16 Phoenix team!

Bright and Beautiful is a family run business; owners Jaz & Delpreet Shergill understand every home and family is unique, and that’s why their cleaning service should be too. They cover all our local area across Knowle, Dorridge and the surrounding villages plus into Solihull and beyond. You can see their vast range of cleaning services and book a quote here - https://www.brightandbeautifulhome.com/locations/henley-in-arden

We asked Jaz to tell us a little bit more about B&B; “When you choose Bright & Beautiful as your professional cleaning company, your home will be cleaned by one of our expert teams, ensuring excellent service time after time. Tailored to your needs we create a bespoke service covering cleaning, tidying, laundry and ironing. Our professional procedures give you peace of mind that your home is kept safe and secure. Our trusted teams are carefully selected and professionally trained to be the best in the industry. Finally, our eco-friendly products ensure we do our part for the environment as well as keeping your home happy & healthy.”

Knowle supporters may have had the chance to meet owners Jaz and Delpreet recently, as they have already gotten involved in the club by watching the Ladies FA Cup game and also taking the time to come meet the Phoenix team at their game against Chasetown, plus check out the new kits!

“The team thought it was brilliant that Del & Jaz came down to cheer them on. They enjoyed meeting their sponsors…and not just because of the delicious cookies they provided!”, Phoenix manager Sarah Moore told us. “From my perspective, it’s amazing to have a sponsor that wants to be involved in our community and I think Delpreet in particular will be a great role model for the girls, as a woman excelling in running her own business. The girls have told me they love how clean and smart the new kit looks too!”

Del agreed that being part of a community was a large reason for choosing to sponsor a Knowle FC team: "Having run our business in the area for the last 8 years we have often taken part in small events within the local community. This year we wanted to really take it a step further and establish a deeper relationship with the local community in which we are emotionally invested in. We also want to play our part in nurturing local talent and driving community growth. Working in a predominantly based female industry, it only felt right to sponsor young women and that’s why we have chosen to sponsor the fantastic U16 Phoenix team".

Everyone at Knowle FC would like to express our thanks to Bright & Beautiful for coming on board with us, and we’re excited about working with them in future! If any members of the Knowle FC family are looking to spruce up the home before Christmas – get in touch with them!

One Goal Enough for Knowle

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 10:44:35 GMT

16th November 2024: Lane Head 0-1 Knowle FC

Dave Sykes reports from Bloxwich Road

Two sides at opposite ends of the table, but football is not predictable! It was murky, a sticky pitch, a noticeable slope and a drive up the M6 doesn’t exactly get you in the right mood to play. Lane Head had looked at our scoring record and had set out their stall to spoil and frustrate Knowle. With Zac Parsons having to sit out a game because he had amassed 5 yellow cards Knowle still went into the game confident.

After 6 minutes of chess like moves Knowle earned a corner and all hell broke loose! Nothing unto-wards, just sheer panic in the Lane Head 6 yard box. No way could I recall who did what in the right order but we witnessed about a minute of Knowle pummelling the goal. A spot of head tennis ended with Brandon hitting the bar, then Tom Craine hit the bar, about 5 heroic blocks followed and I saw the ball hit the post. The home side just couldn’t clear their lines! Both Scott brothers had shots deflected and then finally the keeper bravely dived on the ball and Lane Head survived!

We were then treated to a bit of slapstick as one of Lewis Clarke’s headed clearances hit the lino. He was wrong footed, dazed, juggled with his flag but just managed to stay on his feet. Then a blow to Knowle. Skipper George Seeley, who had been showing up well, went down holding his thigh in the 18th minute. On came the talented youngster Harry Stone to full back and Callum Scott moved into mid-field. Almost immediately Callum played his brother Toby into the area and he went down under a challenge. It wasn’t given, and neither was another challenge on Odane!

Chances came thick and fast. Tom Craine hit the bar again and almost turned the ball in at the far post. Odane was on fire, hitting the post, just failing to convert a cross from Brandon but it had to come! Finally, it did. Tom played a lovely through ball and was clattered shortly after. The ref played a good advantage when he saw Odane power past his marker and this time he smashed the ball into the net. It was no more than Knowle deserved but then Knowle were awarded a penalty when Brandon was brought down when he was in full flight. Up stepped Tom Craine – he hit a ferocious shot but as the keeper dived, it hit his legs and rebounded for a corner.

The second half started with Knowle rampant again! Craine was really putting himself about now, determined to make up for that penalty miss but first the keeper pulled off a good saves then two shots just went wide of their target. Hague also had a couple of efforts but it was all in vain. Then to Knowle's surprise, Lane Head took control for ten minutes. Spectators were reminded why Knowle have only conceded 3 goals all season. The marking was impeccable, the headed clearances were brilliant and the composure on the ball made you realise how good these Knowle players really are. With just over ten minutes to go, Knowle took back control. Brandon deserved to score but he hit the post again. It all finished with respectful handshakes and another three points for Knowle.

Knowle : Johnson; Riddiford; Clarke; Dudley; Callum Scott; Toby Scott; Seeley; Cervantes: Hague; Barnes; Craine Subs. Stone; Corry; Burston-Keeley; Caines.

Ladies Fall Short at Coundon

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 10:32:15 GMT

10th November 2024: Coundon Court 4-3 Knowle Ladies

An eventful game over at Hawkes Mill Sports ended with the Ladies on the wrong end of a 4-3 scoreline in a game where they will feel they should have taken points.

Knowle started brightly and connected well in midfield to send both Nadia Bacciochi and Demi Rolph into space up top, but the Coundon defenders marshalled them away from goal and a snapshot from Katie Atter went well wide. Coundon came back with some good attacking play down their left side, as the cross came into the box it ricocheted off both defender and attacker to flick up and hit Sam Smith's hand; the ref immediately pointed to the spot. Coundon scored the resulting kick to go 1-0 up.

Knowle shook it off and went on the hunt again, with Trina Greaves hitting the post and Morgan Betteridge putting in a dangerous corner that had to be cleared off the line. But it was Coundon who extended the lead, and if Knowle thought the first was unlucky, this was worse - a speculative low shot deflected horribly off Bacciochi to play the attacker in perfectly and she made no mistake with the finish.

Knowle continued to foray forward and were on top for most of the first half. Nelia Severin was giving the home defenders a torrid time and was pulled down on a number of occasions. After a delay to one such free kick, Natalie Gibson sent it goalwards, the keeper made the save but Greaves was on hand to fire home the loose ball.

Rolph then went close after good play from Lily Phelps and Severin played her in for a 1v1, but her near post strike hit the side netting. Gibson then hit another free kick just over the bar when Severin was chopped down again.

Coundon's attacks were few and far between, but that didn't matter when it resulted in another goal; a quick throw in saw the winger in space to cross, Greaves couldn't make the clearance and the attacker was left with an easy tap in. The game had become very stop start, with a lot of fouls being given all over the pitch, but Knowle kept knocking on the door and Coundon had to rely on good defending and goalkeeping to maintain their lead. Just before half time, Severing was tripped yet again, but this time inside the area - Rolph buried the spot kick to leave the score at the break 3-2.

A change of system from Coundon in the second period meant Knowle didn't enjoy as much dominance and it became a more even game. Several chances went begging early on for the Robins; Rolph hitting two shots just off target and even Maz Byrne got in on the act with a dangerous overlapping run. It felt like the goal was coming, and it did...but at the wrong end for Knowle. A long ball into the box bounced off Betteridge to the forward; she was denied a shot at goal by Smith but was able to lay a pass off to her strike partner in space and she beat Jess Jenkinson. Coundon then had a couple of long range attempts that Jenkinson handled well

Knowle had a glorious chance to pull one back when Gibson's free kick was spilled by the keeper and a goalmouth scramble ensued; Rolph and Severin seemed to get in each other's way before Atter's shot was blocked on the line. Rolph then couldn't connect with a header two yards out after being teed up by Camile Abbotts and Gibson. At the other end, Coundon also went very close when the forward rounded Jenkinson, but Molly Hughes managed to get her toe on the shot and poke it wide; the referee gave a goal kick however.

Knowle did get another goal with six minutes plus stoppage remaining; Greaves again lashing home from close range after the keeper couldn't hold another fierce shot. They threw everything forward but couldn't get the ball in the net, coming closest when Greaves hit the bar. It wasn't to be for the Robins and although they will be pleased with the performance and the chances they created, leaving empty handed was tough to take.

Knowle: Jenkinson, Phelps (Hampson, 80), Smith (Hughes, 65), Byrne, Betteridge, Greaves, Gibson, Atter (Donnelly, 80), Severin, Rolph, Bacciochi (Abbotts, 65).

Robins Make Hard Work of Swans

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 16:48:38 GMT

9th November 2024: Fairfield Villa 0-3 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Stourbridge Road.

The Robins managed to secure all three points from this match, without ever really getting out of second gear. The front men were strangely out of sorts, yet the meanest defence in the Midland Football League was on top form. Clarke and Dudley were as solid as ever, Stone and Powell controlled the flanks. Indeed Anton Powell was the man of the match, producing a superb display of wing back play.

Things got off to a wonderful start; within ninety seconds, Tom Craine had opened the scoring. Despite Powell controlling things on the left, the mid-field found the going difficult on a heavy pitch that cut up as the match proceeded.

Yet the first-half was all The Robins, the Swans were only occasionally allowed anywhere near Craig Johnson in the Robins’ goal. By half-time the game was won with George Seeley scoring as a result of wonderful play on the flank by Hayden Purves. Brandon Hague made it three during the six minutes added time before half-time.

Before we came to the break there were three subs on the park. Hague on for the injured Purves, with the Swans having to use two first-half subs because of injury.

The second-half was a non-event. The Robins knew the job was done, and although Villa were far better second half, they never really bothered the visiting defence. Nonetheless they should take heart from their second half performance, such play will stand them well in games to come.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Stone (Taylor); Powell (Riddiford); Clarke; Dudley; Drake-Cervantes; Craine [1] (Corry); G Seeley (c) [22]; Barnes; Parsons (Toby Scott); Purves (Hague).

JandaSec Support the Dragons Team!

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 18:31:02 GMT

New Home Shirt Sponsor for our U12 Girls

The U12 Dragons were thrilled to take delivery of their new home shirts last weekend. This marked the start of the team's partnership with new sponsor JandaSec Ltd, who have come on board this season.

JandaSec Ltd. is a cybersecurity company dedicated to helping businesses protect their most valuable assets. Based in Solihull, UK, they are proud to serve our local community, while also working nationally and internationally to provide expert cybersecurity solutions wherever they are needed. JandaSec specialise in offering virtual / fractional CISO (Chief Information Security Officer) consulting services, providing flexible, top-tier security leadership for organisations of all sizes. In addition, they offer cybersecurity masterclasses designed for business leaders, equipping them with the knowledge to navigate today’s complex threat landscape confidently.

Director Andy Latham had this to say about his business; "At JandaSec, we’re passionate about making cybersecurity accessible and manageable for businesses across sectors and borders. Whether your organisation is looking to strengthen its security posture locally or globally, we’re here to help safeguard your future".

You can find out more about them at https://jandasec.com/ or on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/jandasec/

The Dragons will definitely be looking the part in the new shirts, with the black and teal JandaSec logo looking great. With five wins from their first six games, they have started the season superbly and so they're also putting in great performances.

Andy also explained why they wanted to get involved with Knowle FC "JandaSec is proud to be a sponsor at Knowle Football Club and support the under-12 girls football team. As a business rooted in integrity and a passion for supporting the community, we believe in empowering young people through sport. Football teaches teamwork, resilience, and leadership; qualities that resonate with our own values in the cybersecurity field.

With the daughter of our founder and Director being one of the players, this opportunity is also personal to us. It’s important that girls have the same opportunities to excel in sport, and we’re thrilled that JandaSec can play a part in supporting their growth and confidence on the pitch. By sponsoring the team, we hope to help these young athletes reach their full potential and inspire others to pursue their goals, both on and off the field. Go Dragons!"

Dragons coach Morgan agreed - "I've worked with the Dragons for three years now; they're a brilliant group of girls and it's been amazing to see them grow in confidence and resilience, plus become close teammates. Sponsorship from JandaSec will help us keep doing what we're doing, and support the girls to grow year on year".

Thank you so much to JandaSec for supporting us; it's much appreciated and we look forward to working with them!

Best of the Club on Show, Even in Defeat

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 13:04:33 GMT

3rd November 2024: Knowle LFC 1-7 West Brom

Knowle Ladies were soundly beaten by West Bromwich Albion in the FA Cup First Round, but the match marked a brilliant day for the club. The first ever full FA Cup tie to be held at the Draintech Community Ground showed the best of Knowle FC, even if the team were outclassed by their high ranking opponents.

With the U9 Ravens team acting as mascots and chief cheerleaders for the crowd of 273, it was a noisy atmosphere to kick off the game and Knowle responded to it; in the first few minutes of the game, Neli Severin pounced on a West Brom defender to rob the ball and go clean through, but she unfortunately scuffed her shot. Natalie Gibson was next to have an opportunity, after good play by Katie Atter down the left side gave her a spare yard in the box and her shot was charged down. The same thing then happened to Jess Barlow on the edge of the penalty area, but unfortunately for Knowle West Brom broke with purpose; the centre forward turned on halfway and played in her right winger who raced forward and beat Jess Jenkinson to give the visitors a 1-0 lead.

After that tricky first five minutes, West Brom settled and began to turn the screw on Knowle. The Robins had to defend numerous corners, with Gibson heading clear on several occasions. Jenkinson also made a sharp stop low down to her right, and Lily Phelps cleared superbly off the line to deny West Brom a second. Knowle were able to get the forward and play themselves on occasion however; Trina Greaves and Gibson were using Sophie Noakes on the wide right as an outlet and she carried the ball well several times, but couldn't quite get a cross into the box. West Brom did have the ball in the net again after a well worked move saw the winger knock down a cross for her teammate, but the forward has strayed well offside before tapping home. Defensively the Robins held out well until the 30 minute mark where they conceded a poor goal; Jenkinson's scuffed clearance fell to the feet of the away forward with Knowle's line too high. Sam Smith got a tackle in, but the ball rebounded straight through and the forward slotted past Jenkinson.

Knowle were guilty of allowing heads to drop after that, and experienced a difficult fifteen minutes before half time, conceding three times. Firstly they were caught out of position from a long ball and allowed the striker to slalom through, then a poor touch was latched upon by a West Brom player who smashed a great finish into the top corner from the edge of the box. The away side's fifth goal came from a set piece, with the West Brom forward heading home in the centre of the penalty area; Knowle were aggrieved at the push on Gibson but the referee deemed it not enough for a free kick.

Five down at half time, Knowle had to dust themselves off and try reset in the second period. With nothing to lose, they pushed forward early again and Severin's running caused West Brom difficulties. Knowle's hard work eventually got their reward; Noakes' press forced a mistake and Greaves picked up the loose ball. She found Severin who played a neat one two with Gibson, to go into the penalty area and the keeper slid out feet first to trip her. Gibson buried the penalty with no problem and the crowd at least had a Knowle goal to celebrate! At the other end, Jenkinson was sharp off her line to stop a good attack, and Morgan Betteridge did fantastically well to rescue a situation where she was outnumbered on the back post.

West Brom had the lions share of possession in the second half as Knowle began to tire and couldn't replicate the counter attacks they had managed in the first half. Defensively they were in good shape however, and kept the Baggies away from goal in the main with important blocks and good tackling. A sixth goal did come when Knowle lost possession on transition and the forward was able to spin in behind, and a penalty rounded things off when Jenkinson clipped a forward running past her. The keeper made a great 1v1 save afterwards however, with Smith blocking on the line behind her when the rebound was fired goalwards.

Knowle ended the game on the attack after Carly Donnelly went sprinting forward to beat the full back, but couldn't quite combine with Greaves, and the final whistle blew to end their FA Cup journey this year.

A comprehensive loss in the end and not unexpected, but with so many Knowle players and families in the ground enjoying Sunday football, most came away with a smile having seen what the Robins are all about.

Superb Knowle Sink United

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 11:46:31 GMT

2nd November 2024: Knowle 6-0 Birmingham United

Ronald Crane reports from the Draintech.

For the second week running, The Robins were involved in a first v second clash at Hampton Road. The Draintech Community Stadium welcomed a large crowd of 148 for the occasion. This match had been eagerly awaited, as both sides have the reputation of playing attractive football. As it turned out, the game did not live up to its billing as a potential end to end feast. From start to finish Knowle were in total control, and United could not manage one single shot on target, and only two off-target.

The writing was on the wall when Referee Moreby awarded the home side a penalty in the sixth minute. This produced nerves in the home crowd as The Robins have been guilty of squandering the kick from twelve yards a number of times this season. However, up stepped Zak Parsons, the coolest man in the ground, and scored with ease.

With pressure from the Robins relentless, United ‘keeper Rushe made an awful hash, allowing Ricardo Dudley (what was he doing in the opposition area?) to make it two. Three minutes later it was three. Zak Parsons pouncing on a loose ball in the area to poke it home.

The only question on then lips of supporters during the break was, “Would Knowle settle for three, or would they press home their advantage to the full?”

Within three minutes of the re-start we knew the answer. Hayden Purves producing an unstoppable effort from twelve yards.

If United’s hearts had sunk with the early penalty, now they were defeated, and they knew it. The second-half seemed though it had petered out rather, with both sides content with the way things were.

Nevertheless, with strikes in the eighty sixth minute and the eighty ninth minute, Ricardo Dudley and the irrepressible Odane Barnes grabbed a goal each to make the final tally six.

Deep into stoppage time, United’s Ellis Vaux was sent to the ‘sin bin’ by referee Mr Moreby. However, before leaving the field the player let out a volume of invective and foul language, that turned the card into a straight red.

This was a comprehensive victory for The Robins. They were just better in every department than their opponents.

Next Saturday, 9th November, The Robins travel to Fairfield Villa for a MFL D2 fixture, KO 1400.

Northfield Thwart Robins

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 12:04:23 GMT

26th October 2024: Knowle 0-0 Northfield Town

Ronald Crane reports from the Draintech Community Ground

This top of the table clash turned out to be an absorbing match, rather than an exciting one. It started well enough for The Robins, right from kick-off Barnes raced down the right wing and produced a cross for Zak Parsons, at the back post and unmarked, to head home. Unfortunately, he headed the ball into the side netting.

As things turned out, this was to be the measure of the whole game. These two well matched sides just cancelled each other out in the first forty-five minutes. If Town had the best of possession, they were only occasionally allowed to get anywhere near Craig Johnson’s goal. The Robins, on the other hand, had four really good opportunities to hit the net. All were either squandered or thwarted by Town’s Goalie and Man of the Match, Tom Walker.

The Town custodian had a wonderful match. It was thanks to him, that the scores remained level. He pulled off a series of top-notch saves. However, he was aided and abetted in this by some poor finishing by the home side.

Although the scores were still nil-all at half-time, with The Robins restricting Town to just one shot on target the home supporters felt that with patience, a goal would come.

As the second-half progressed, gradually The Robins edged their way to control the game. The home mid-field became dominant, and the game was played in the Town half of the park. Knowle ought to have scored, but Walker – again – helped by poor finishing, kept the scores level.

With twelve minutes to go, the home side were handed a life-line by Northfield and the referee when Brooks clearly handled in the area. A penalty was awarded. Toby Scott stepped up to the twelve-yard spot. His attempt was weak, and Walker had no trouble in saving.

Nevertheless, The Robins kept going, and had more chances to score, but they all passed without product.

Right at the death, Town mounted a series of attacks, and at one, Craig Johnson produced the save of the match to ensure the result was to be nil-all.

Is this a point gained, or two points post? When I spoke with Clive Seeley after the match, he felt it was two points lost. However, the league table situation remains the same as it was on Friday, so as far as The Robins are concerned, nothing is lost.

___________________________________________________________________

Knowle FC: Johnson; C Scott (Stone); Powell; Clarke; Dudley; Drake-Cervantes; Parsons (Purves); T Scott; Barnes; G Seeley; Craine (Hague). Subs unused: Corry & Riddiford.

Ladies Hit Seven in FA Cup Triumph

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 22:43:54 GMT

13th October 2024: Sleaford Town 0-7 Knowle Ladies

It was a long road trip to Sleaford in Lincolnshire for Knowle Ladies on Sunday but the bus came back bouncing after the team produced a scintillating performance to go sailing through to the First Round Proper of the FA Cup!

The first five minutes of the game were a little frantic from both sides as Knowle got used to the sandy pitch and Sleaford were buoyed by the enthusiasm of a noisy home support. Once the Robins settled however, they dominated the game and looked dangerous whenever they flew forward. Kate Fleming had a early sight of goal and Sophie Noakes saw a gilt edged chance flick up off a bobble and go wide. Sleaford also had to defend two Knowle corners well. Strangely the opener came from a Sleaford counter attack after another corner; the Greens flew forward but were stopped in their tracks by Molly Hughes. She played the ball back to keeper Jess Jenkinson, who played a clever reverse ball out to Morgan Betteridge on the left wing. Betteridge clipped a pass forward to Demi Rolph and the forward raced through to beat the Sleaford keeper 1v1.

Knowle's midfield were now well in the ascendency and Sleaford found it difficult to deal with their energy and determination to win possession. The Robins second came via an aggressive press, Jess Barlow blocked an attempted clearance and Katie Atter slid the loose ball into Rolph's path. She beat the keeper once more but the pitch slowed her shot right down - thankfully for Knowle, Noakes had followed in and had an easy tap in. Sleaford continuing to defend with gusto, the home side's keeper made a superb save from Trina Greaves' shot, and then Barlow hit the post under heavy pressure from a pack of defenders throwing themselves in front of her in the centre of the penalty area. Noakes had one cleared off the line but Sleaford couldn't hold out much longer against the onslaught. This time it was Greaves finishing off a fine move involving Atter feeding Fleming whose inch perfect through ball set her fellow midfielder through on goal with plenty of time to pick her spot. 3-0 the halftime score and Knowle looked to be in total control.

It did not take the away side much time after the break to completely kill the game off. Once again Atter won possession; she set the ball back to Sam Smith and the centre half floated a long pass into Noakes, running in behind between the full back and centre half. The winger confidently lashed the ball into the net for her second of the game and Knowle's fourth. The Robins were then able to bring their strong bench into play, with Natalie Gibson replacing Greaves, but this bought no respite for Sleaford. The ever classy Gibson was soon in the action, collecting Lily Phelps' pass and finding the tiniest gap to tee up Noakes to complete her hattrick. The youngster's work done for the day, she departed to generous applause from all the crowd...and was named player of the match after the final whistle.

Her replacement Ella Bridges was in the thick of things immediately; within five minutes of being on the pitch she was completely upended twice, got booked for kicking a ball away and danced through the Sleaford midfield at ease. Everything went through Bridges for that period, so it was no surprise when she created Knowle's sixth of the afternoon with probably the best pass of the day. It was fellow substitute Gibson who profitted from the midfielder's vision to score her first of the season.

Knowle's final goal came from the scorer of the opener; Rolph wriggled into space out on the right wing and hit a speculative cross/shot that flew into the far corner of the net. At seven nil down, Sleaford could have been forgiven for throwing in the towel but to their credit, they threw caution to the wind and went for the consolation goal. The Robins found themselves under more pressure than they had been all game, and the Greens managed to test them with some good interplay in the final third. Jenkinson was more than equal to the couple of shots on target, and Carly Donnelly used her pace to good effect to track back and make an important tackle. Knowle saw out the remaining minutes and celebrated accordingly at the final whistle.

Their reward for the performance and win is a home tie against West Bromwich Albion on 3rd November, 2pm kick off!

Knowle: Jenkinson, Phelps (Donnelly 77), Smith, Hughes, Betteridge, Atter, Fleming, Barlow (Bridges 70), Greaves (Gibson 60), Rolph (Balder 77), Noakes (Severin 70).

Knowle Down Bolehall to Stay Top

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 18:54:49 GMT

5th October 2024: Bolehall Swifts 0-5 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Rene Road.

Although The Robins scored five goals with five different scorers, this victory was built upon a solid, resolute, and mean defence. Swifts have a reputation for scoring goals at home, but in this match they were overwhelmed right from the start.

With Ricardo Dudley the pick of an excellent backline, they never let the home forwards get anywhere near scoring. Swifts only attempt, on or off target, occurred when Holland cut in from the left and let fly from distance. Oscar Slater had no problem saving.

It was all Knowle, with the visitors rarely out of the home half of the park. The home defence was at full stretch. However, they had no response when Hayden Purves produced a fierce shot from twenty yards to open the scoring.

Six minutes later a Zak Parsons corner from the right was headed home at the back post by Joe Drake-Cervates. He was unmarked.

With The Robins in cruise control the rest of the first half was played out with Swifts unable to make progress through the mid-field and reduced to pumping long balls forward. These were meat and drink to The Robins’ defence.

Both sides made changes for the second-half, and Swifts were much better although still unable to trouble the visitors goal. Substitute Tom Craine only managed seven minutes before being forced to retire due to injury. We wait to find out just how serious it is. His substitute, Callum Burston-Keeley, did not waste his chance, scoring after ten minutes on the pitch.

Three minutes later, another sub this time George Seeley, made it four, and at the death yet another sub – Nathan Corry – finished things off with his goal after hitting the post.

This was a comprehensive victory. The Robins were superior in every department.

Next Saturday, 19th October, The Robins travel to Coventry to play Coventrians. Kick off is at 1500

___________________________________________________________________

Knowle FC: Slater; Stone; Powell (Riddiford); Clarke (c); Dudley; Drake-Cervantes [26]; Purves [22] (Craine)(Burston-Keeley [63]); T Scott; Hague (G Seeley [66]); Parsons (Corry [81]); Barnes.

Last Kick Heartbreak for Knowle LFC

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 18:39:38 GMT

6th October 2024: Shifnal Town 4-3 Knowle LFC

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Resignation of Chairman

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 08:14:27 GMT

Statement from the committee

“Knowle Football Club has accepted the resignation of Darryl Saunders as Club Chairman. Darryl stepped away from all club related duties over the weekend and has handed his previous responsibilities to the remaining committee members.

Darryl injected much vision, passion and energy into our club since he was appointed as chairman 8 months ago. We would like to publicly thank him for all his hard work and we wish him well in his future endeavours.

The committee will now take time to reflect and consider options and there will be further announcements in due course.

Knowle FC”

Robins Hit 7

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 22:24:50 GMT

5th October 2024: Knowle 7-0 Lane Head

Having scored six goals away at Inkberrow last Saturday, The Robins went one better at home to Lane Head. After a slow start, the home side dominated the whole match, so much so that the visitors could not manage a single shot on or off target.

With the Hampton Road pitch in perfect condition (a tribute to Groundsman David Ratcliffe), the playing surface suited The Robins style of play. The U6 Bobcats, mascots for the day, were treated to a goal fest.

Lane Head did spring a surprise by lining up in a three, five, two formation. It did occur to me that with just three at the back, they were leaving themselves open to the fire-power that is the Knowle forward line. As the match progressed, this proved to be the case. They swiftly changed to four, then five, at the back. But it made little difference, the front men in red were having a field day. If you leave players of the calibre of Barnes, Craine, and Hague unmarked in the six-yard box, you are asking for trouble. And trouble was what they got! This is not to mention the artful skill of Parsons, Toby Scott and Joe Drake-Cervantes.

The Knowle mid-field were in total control for the whole match. The vast majority of the match took place in the visitors half. The home players took full advantage and bagged a hat full of goals.

One strange fact however, was that there were very few fouls committed, only four by The Robins, and nine by Lane Head. It was an easy match for the Officials.

Knowle opened the scoring, following a fierce run through mid-field by Zak Parsons, riding a foul before passing to Odane Barnes to hit the net with a perfect shot between ‘Keeper and post.

Four minutes later, Brandon Hague hit a screamer from twenty six yards to double the score.

It took another six minutes for Tom Craine to be brought down in the area and win a penalty. He picked himself up to make it three.

Not to be outdone, Zak Parsons pounced on a loose ball close in to chalk up number four.

In the second half Knowle managed to score three more. Substitute Callum Burston-Keeley made it five. Barnes rounded things off with two late goals to make the tally seven. His final goal came from a peach of a cross from the left by another substitute Anton Powell, which the forward only needed to present a head for the ball to fly home.

This was a comprehensive victory, and emphasised, if emphasis was needed, that the gulf between the top few teams and the bottom few teams in MFL Division Two.

___________________________________________________________________

Knowle FC: Slater; C Scott; Joe Riddiford (Record); Clarke (c) (Powell); Dudley (c); Drake-Cervantes (Stone); Craine [32p] (Burston-Keeley [57]); T Scott; Hague [26] (Purves); Parsons [40]; Barnes [22; 81; 89]

Ladies Go Through in FA Cup

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 14:48:33 GMT

29th September 2024: Bromsgrove Sporting 1-2 Knowle Ladies

After last week’s torrential weather caused this FA Cup tie to be postponed, Knowle Ladies arrived in Bromsgrove to a complete contrast; fine weather and a great venue to play football. They certainly enjoyed themselves in the early stages of the game, looking a real threat in attack. Indeed, the match was only three minutes old when Trina Greaves out muscled her defender to latch onto Nadia Bacciochi’s ball, but her low shot bounced back off the inside of the post and out to safety. Knowle’s midfield were well on top, winning every first ball and the majority of seconds. Kate Fleming, Natalie Gibson and Jess Barlow made sure Bromsgrove found it difficult to get out of their own half, with the exception of some mazy runs by the number ten. The trio also combined well in possession, keeping the ball well and switching it across the pitch into space.

However, The Robins were perhaps guilty of not quite executing their final ball well enough to turn that possession into clear cut chances, with a couple of square balls going awry when forwards were clean through. Fleming did find Demi Rolph in the centre of goal, but her shot slid wide of the post and then Gibson hit a shot over the bar when gathering the resulting goal kick. Knowle were then left cursing the goalpost once more when Barlow turned the ball into Bacciochi’s path on the edge of box and her curling shot cannoned back off the same upright Greaves had found earlier. The Bromsgrove keeper then made a superb save to claw out Rolph’s volley after the forward met Bacciochi’s cross.

It felt like the goal was coming and so it proved on 35 minutes with Knowle’s best move of the game. The back line kept possession well, working the ball from Katie Atter at left back through centre halves Sam Smith and Molly Hughes before the latter fed Barlow who had ghosted into space between the lines. The quality of Barlow’s final pass matched her movement, and Rolph made no mistake running onto the ball and sliding her finish past the keeper.

Knowle couldn’t press home their advantage however, and just before halftime Bromsgrove were back on level terms. A good move down the right side found the number ten in space on the edge of the box and her shot squirmed under Jess Jenkinson in the Knowle goal. 1-1 at the break, and Knowle had to squash their disappointment in conceding from the oppositions only shot of the half to build themselves back up for the second period.

Bromsgrove were certainly buoyed by their goal, and were able to pose much more of a threat in the second half, but thankfully for the Knowle spectators, their side also stepped up in the attacking third. Passes from Fleming and Greaves sent Rolph in twice in the early stages; the keeper saved her first attempt but not thirty seconds after she was sent sprawling in the box by a defender’s late tackle. Rolph picked herself and hit a fantastic penalty to give Knowle the lead again.

The away side had Jenkinson to thank for maintaining that lead when she made superb one on one save after the Bromsgrove forward slipped through the Knowle backline and the keeper was alert to grab the rebound also. Bromsgrove knew they had to throw caution to the wind and changed formation to put another body in attack, but this also gave Knowle more space to work in.

The next chance fell to Bacciochi after fine work from Barlow and Greaves, but her shot didn’t have the power to trouble the home keeper, then shots from Greaves and Gibson flew off target. Knowle’s defence stood firm at the opposite end, pushing Bromsgrove attackers wide and only giving them partial sights of goal which also ended in off target shots. Rolph then had the ball in the back of the net after collecting Morgan Betteridge’s pass, but it was ruled out for a tight offside.

As time ticked on, Bromsgrove continued to press for the all important equaliser but their attacks came to nothing as Knowle managed the game well. Rolph pulled another fine save out the home side’s keeper, the Sophie Noakes blazed a shot over the bar after being set up by Barlow and Nellie Severin. Knowle spent the final minutes of the game repelling Bromsgrove attacks and dealing with the defender who had moved up front. It may not have been easy on the eye, but the Robins backline were able to stop any attempts on goal and clear their lines time and time again, before the final whistle blew to send them through to the next round!

A trip to Sleaford in Lincolnshire awaits Knowle next in the FA Cup, but they will play league leaders Shifnal Town away next week firstly.

Knowle: Jenkinson, Betteridge, Hughes, Smith, Atter (Phelps 70), Barlow, Gibson, Fleming, Bacciochi (Noakes 65), Rolph (Severin 75), Greaves. Unused subs: Donnelly, Balder, Byrne.

Knowle Back to Their Best at Inkberrow

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 13:49:05 GMT

28th September 2024: Inkberrow 0-6 Knowle

Dave Sykes reports from Evesham

Knowle just love playing on the Vale of Evesham! After a tremendous performance against Littleton, the team were

determined to improve on last weeks under par show against Coventrians. They certainly did that as Inkberrow were beaten 6-0 in a rampant display that showed everyone how good Knowle are this season.

The first half was action packed with Knowle creating chance after chance but it exploded in the 35 ^th minute when Brandon Hague headed on brilliantly for Odane Barnes to run clear and place the ball to the keeper's left. The ball hit either a wheel on the goal or a metal bracket that reinforced the goal frame. Both were two feet/50cm behind the line but the ball cannoned out back into play. Their keeper and all of their defence admitted it was a goal. The referee and linesman 'couldn't see' so no goal was given. Unsurprisingly, three cautions were issued.

Knowle had to grin and bear it and were pacified somewhat two minutes later when Tom Craine was brought down and the ref pointed to the spot. Tom took the kick himself but hit it tamely at the keeper. Two minutes later Zak Parsons hit an absolute screamer from the edge of the box. The resultant save from their keeper was just magnificent. So Knowle trudged off feeling very hard done by. They needed to focus on the second half.

Focus they did as within two minutes Brandon Hague smashed home a loose ball in the area after Odane had caused

havoc. Two minutes later George Seeley kept cool under pressure and steered the ball into the corner to put Knowle

two up. It was all Knowle. Their forwards combined brilliantly especially when Craine played a sumptuous through

ball for Odane to score number 3.

And then the highlight of the match. Zac Parsons picked up a short pass on the edge of a crowded penalty area and just wriggled his way through beating three men on the way and Brandon Hague before calmly chipping through a small gap that had appeared between the keeper and the post! The whole crowd stood to applaud a memorable goal.

Now four goals to the good Knowle were brimming with confidence, Number 5 followed soon with Parsons again the instigator as he created space for Odane to score his 10 ^th of the season. Then Hague finished things off with his second and Knowle's sixth. Five or six more chances were missed in the dying moments of the game but frankly six goals was enough against game opponents.

Knowle Make Hard Work of Victory

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 13:43:47 GMT

21st September 2023: Knowle 2-0 Coventrians

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground

To watch this match was not a joy. It was hard work, as was the play on the pitch. The visitors began the match at full throttle. However inside seven minutes they were down to ten men. Goalkeeper Josh Richards rushed out of his area to challenge Brandon Hague who had been put through, only for the hapless ‘Keeper to be shown a red card for bringing the Robin down. There were complaints from the men in blue, but the Referee, after consultation with his Assistant, showed no mercy. Coventrians would have to play eighty three minutes with a man short. Defender Lewis Barratt took over the goalie’s jersey.

If spectators expected this then to be a rout by the home side, they were in for a shock. For most of the first half, it was Coventrians who were in possession and in Robins’ territory. They were unlucky to go to the break without a goal.

It was Oscar Slater between the Robins’ posts as Craig Johnson was injured down in the warm up. The young keeper did splendidly, saving the two shots Coventrians managed and cutting out numerous crosses. He commanded his area, and encouraged his defence.

One must confess that, Oscar Slater apart, there were only two pieces of real quality in the whole match. The first came when Bradon Hague received the ball inside the “D” and from his left. He had his back to goal, feinted to his left, swiftly turned to his right and placed the ball neatly along the grass and into the bottom corner of the net. The second was just before the break. Odane Barnes ran on to a long high ball, and with the; Keeper advancing, his chip was inch perfect to drop into the net. There were calls for ‘off-side’ but I can witness that the Assistant Referee was right in line, and had no reason to flag.

With Knowle two up at half time, it was reasonable to expect more goals. We were disappointed, there were none. Only more yellow cards, and a red (for a second yellow) for Hayden Purves. So both sides finished with ten men.

This match was in no way a spectacle. But there is an old saying in football; “Sometimes you have to win ugly”. Knowle did win, and it was ugly.

On Saturday 28th September Knowle travel to Inkberrow for a MFL D2 match. KO 3pm.

___________________________________________________________________

Knowle FC: Slater; Jones; Stone (Withington) Clarke; Record; G Seeley (c); Barnes [40]; T Scott; Hague [30] (Craine); Parsons; Purves.

Subs not used: Caines-Powell; Riddiford; Johnson..

Yellow Cards: Clarke; Purves (x2); Parsons; Record.

Red Card: Purves

Jackson Electrical Back the U14 Robins

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 12:43:00 GMT

Darryl Saunders - September 11, 2024

Sponsors Jackson are delighted to support the growth of female football

Kicking off our first sponsor spotlight of the new season, let us introduce you to Jackson Electrical who sponsor our U14 Robins!

Last weekend, owner Richard Jackson presented the new kit and hoodies to the girls as they started their season with a home game against West Brom at Hampton Road.

Jackson Electrical are a family run business and have been in the industry for over twenty years. Although they’re based local to the Knowle area, Jackson work nationwide, carrying out all kinds of electrical works on commercial, industrial and retail settings. You can get in touch with them on 0121 647 3721, or find their website here - www.jackson-electrical.co.uk

This is the fourth year that Jackson have sponsored the Robins in some format and from a club perspective it’s amazing to have these long-term relationships backing us. Richard told us “It’s been a joy to watch the team grow from strength to strength over the years. With women’s football being ever more popular and as a dad with three daughters, it’s great to see opportunities for girls becoming more equal now. As a sponsor, it’s an honour to play a part in that and help these young women in their passion”.

The Robins play in the Premier Division of the CWGFL and this season will be their first at 11v11. They have enjoyed having the opportunity to play at Hampton Road already, and we have no doubt the bigger pitches and plenty of space will suit their style of football! Everyone involved with the team and the wider club would like to thank Richard and Jackson Electrical for their fantastic support. Girls Secretary Jim Dowding said “We really appreciate the support from Jackson Electrical. Committed sponsors like Jackson help us to continue building female football provision at Knowle FC where we’re home to over 160 young female footballers. That’s almost double since Jackson came on board as sponsor!”

Keep eyes on our pages to see how the Robins fare this season and drop Jacksons a like and a follow, plus bear them in mind for any electrical services you or your business may require!

Knowle Ladies Confirm Wadsworth Main Sponsor Once Again

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 13:31:48 GMT

Article courtesy of Solihull Observer

Knowle Ladies FC have once again joined forces with Wadsworth Solicitors as they look forward to the new 2024/25 season starting next month. Exciting times are ahead for the team, as they embark on a new era under the leadership of their newly appointed manager, Reece Crowton. With Wadsworth committing to their ninth season as main sponsor of the Ladies team, Reece has the backing he needs to build on the solid foundation established by his predecessors, guiding the team to new heights.

Club chairman Darryl Saunders said “We’re extremely pleased to work with Wadsworth Solicitors again. The incredible long-term support provided by them has been instrumental in establishing and sustaining our Women’s team. Wadsworth’s unwavering commitment has enabled the club to offer football opportunities for girls at every age group, ensuring a continuous flow of talent into the first team.”

Indeed, Knowle FC’s commitment to nurturing young talent and supporting women’s football is stronger than ever, and the future looks bright as the team gears up for the season ahead. The club have successfully integrated girls’ football into the broader structure of the club, creating a seamless pathway from under-eights to the first team.

Last weekend Wadsworth Director Gemma Dempsey visited the club to take in a pre-season friendly, inspect the Wadsworth branded shirts, and meet some of the players; including some who have stepped out of the junior under-eighteen team over summer to join the adult set up.

Gemma commented "Wadsworth Solicitors is thrilled to continue our longstanding sponsorship of Knowle Ladies FC. Supporting local talent has always been a core value of our firm, and our partnership with Knowle Ladies FC is a testament to this commitment. We’ve witnessed the incredible growth of women's football since we started our sponsorship, and we're proud to be part of this inspiring journey."

Team captain Maz Byrne added “We’re extremely grateful for the support from everyone at Wadsworth. They believed in us, and the women’s game as a whole, before the recent boost in popularity following the success of the amazing Lionesses. Their backing ensures the club can be home to female players like myself, my teammates and my daughter who plays for our under eleven side! We’re a family club, so it’s great that a family business recognises that strong ethos and wants to partner with us.”

Family-run solicitors Wadsworth were established in 1986, and take great pride in serving the local community. It’s important to them that they give back where they can. Victoria Hicks, Marketing Manager explained "As a local business, connecting with our community is essential. We believe in the power of sport to inspire and unite people, and we feel honoured to be associated with such a talented and dedicated team."

Saunders couldn’t agree more with this attitude and is keen to involve the surrounding community with the Knowle Ladies team. He added “I’d encourage supporters to come down to the games on Sundays to support the players and witness the progress firsthand. With this solid backing and a promising setup, Knowle FC’s Women’s Team is poised for success, and the entire community is urged to get behind them as they take on new challenges.”

Knowle Ladies FC play their first game of the West Midlands Women’s Regional Premier Division on the 1 ^st September, away at Leek Town. Their first home game is 2pm kick off on the 15 ^th September, with Kidderminster Harriers the visitors. They will also be in FA Cup action later in the month!

Knowle Team Up With Draintech Again for 24/25!

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 12:52:28 GMT

Article courtesy of Solihull Observer

KNOWLE have teamed up with local company Draintech once again for the 2024/25 season as the Robins bid to achieve promotion to Step Six. New Knowle chairman Darryl Saunders took on the role in February earlier this year as the Robins finished third in the Midland Football League Division Two table last season – just missing out on promotion.

However, with Draintech’s backing as ground and shirt sponsors, Saunders is dreaming of promotion next season and hopes to emulate the journey taken by neighbours Solihull Moors which he believes highlights the impact of local sponsorship.

Saunders said: “With the local community behind us, there’s no reason Knowle can’t rise up through the leagues quite quickly. If we invest the money properly and get enough sponsors, you can rise up these leagues relatively fast, over the next 10 years we want to push as hard as we can. I’ve spoken to a lot of people who helped start Solihull Moors on their journey, they’ve seen it already happen, it’s not just a wild dream, it’s a very clear template that’s worked. There’s no reason we can’t have that same vision, and Draintech have experience of that journey.”

Draintech are specialist drainage contractors providing essential drain repairs and also believe Knowle could follow the path set out by Moors in the future.

Draintech’s marketing communications manager, Dan Lowe said: “One of the key players for Solihull Moors was the Hardyman Group, Draintech are part of that group, we’ve been part of that journey since the very beginning. We’ve seen that come through and we’re excited to do that with Knowle, there’s a huge opportunity to do it. We’ve always done fantastic stuff with Knowle and we share the same vision. It’s not just the money side, it’s about getting involved and being proud of the partnership.”

The Robins hope to make the Draintech Community Ground a fortress next season. And Saunders wants to involve the surrounding community as much as possible on Knowle’s journey.

Saunders added: “We want to make sure the word is out in Knowle, I feel like everyone knows about the club but at the same nobody does. In the area that we’re in, there’s a space to be that second team of the area and that’s what we want to be for the local community and businesses. We get good crowds already, if we can make more noise we’ll have better crowds and we want to communicate a lot more with everybody locally. We’re getting the changing rooms done and we’ve done the pitch up and that’s all thanks to local support from companies like Draintech.”

Lowe added: “Draintech have been involved with Knowle directly since 2020, it’s about connecting with our local community and giving back to our local community. We understand the value of working with local companies, as part of our responsibility to the community we want to invest in good projects such as Knowle. We’ve bought into the vision 100 per cent and respect what Knowle are trying to achieve and we want to be part of that journey. We see this as a very long-term project, we’ve been Knowle’s ground sponsor for four years now and we see the value in what Knowle are trying to do.”

And Saunders insists the club needs the support of the local community to take the next step on their journey.

He hopes the partnership between the club and Draintech will inspire other local companies to come on board with the club.

Saunders said: “At this level, unless I won the lottery, we need the support of local businesses, that’s how Step Seven football works. We need people to believe in the side and the community, with the years of support, we’ve started work on the ground thanks to Draintech’s sponsorship. We have a lot of sponsors and a lot of teams but Draintech have been there when Knowle have had it tough and the good times. When others see what we’re doing together, there’s still a lot of space for other companies to get involved. We’ve got the infrastructure and support to push on and look at competing at a division higher, we’ve got the vision, the plan is there. Local companies are the only reason we get to do that.”

Ladies Weather The Storm at Kidderminster

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 17:00:30 GMT

7th April 2024: Kidderminster Harriers 1-2 Knowle LFC

After a few weeks off, Knowle Ladies were raring to get back out on the pitch; the gale force winds and driving rain they arrived to at Kidderminster Harriers may have dampened those spirits initially, but certainly didn't affect the performance. Two goals from Demi Rolph and an impressive defensive showing from the whole team earned them a vital 1-2 win.

Stand in captain Sam Smith lost the toss and Knowle found themselves kicking into the considerable wind for the first half, though thankfully the rain has blown away by kick off. It looked as though the wind would be a decisive player when Kidderminster went ahead as early as the 6th minute - a free kick from out wide was helped on it's way and floated towards the back post. Jess Jenkinson in the Knowle goal blocked the first attempt, but the ball rebounded to Kiddi winger Izzie Whittick who slotted it home.

Knowle didn't let the early goal affect their game plan however, and kept a steady shape to defend their penalty area. Kidderminster kept the ball well but couldn't get behind the Robins, so hit a number of attempts from outside the box which flew off target each time. In contrast, Knowle were a threat on the break. Their first chance to equalise fell to Marsha Malik after good work from Natalie Gibson and Nadia Bacciochi created a shooting chance for the forward, but home keeper Amie Preston was equal to it. She could do nothing about the equaliser that followed soon after however; Katie Adams won possession on the right side and drive forward to combine with Malik. Her early pass found Demi Rolph racing into the area and the striker's shot took a nick off the defender and nestled in the bottom corner.

Stung by being pegged back, Kidderminster pushed forward once more and Knowle struggled to clear their lines at time with the wind blowing the ball back into their territory. Rach Keen had to be alert to head clear a dangerous cross, and both Smith and Naomi Henry put in a fine blocks on shots from Kiddi skipper Amber Lawrence. Another breakaway threatened to give Knowle the lead when Gibson picked up a loose ball and found Adams sprinting down the right side, but her attempt at goal went wide. Set pieces were a real threat for the home side with both excellent delivery and prowess in the air from the likes of Olivia Lloyd, but Knowle made sure they were first to everything - in particular the ball seemed to be magnetised to Gibson in Knowle's penalty area and she made a number of important clearances. The Robins had to rely on Jenkinson to stop the most clear cut chance Kiddi had however. She flew off her line to block Bethany Male's shot and the ball cannoned out to Adams. She connected well with Bacciochi who strode into the Kidderminster half and set Rolph free again, and the striker did what she does best to skip round Preston and finish well. Knowle held onto that lead in the final seven minutes of the half, and went in 1-2 up.

The rain was back again for the second half, but with the wind at their backs this time, Knowle created a few more chances in that period. Kidderminster certainly had the lion's share of possession, but simply couldn't break the Knowle backline down. When they did find space it was out wide, but Lily Phelps repelled everything they could throw at her and a number of crosses were overhit and sailed harmlessly out of the other side of the box. Knowle really should have extended their lead, first through Rolph whose back post header was saved brilliantly by Preston, and then by Gibson who found herself in acres of space in the box but again Preston stuck out a boot and deflected her low finish round the post. Smith's header from the resulting corner was blocked on the line.

Kidderminster came closest when Lara Stevens hit a strong effort, but Jenkinson leapt high to tip it over the post. An inswinging corner then somehow ricocheted towards goal, but thankfully for Knowle, Gibson was on the line to make the clearance. At the other end, Malik's quick feet were causing havoc, none more so than when she spun out of trouble well and teed up Bacciochi in the area, but strike flew over the bar. As the match wore on, Kidderminster continued to dominate the ball and Knowle relied on both Rolph and Bacciochi dropping back to wide positions and protecting either wing. Knowle had the perfect chance to seal it with five minutes remaining, when Malik found Adams flying down the right side again and played her into the box in space, but the right back placed her shot wide.

The team in blue pulled together and saw out the final stages with a number of clearances. Kidderminster were inches away from connecting with a free kick late on, but it bounced out of play and Knowle had their victory. Three more points towards survival, and they were hard earned indeed.

Knowle: Jenkinson, Phelps, Keen, Smith, Henry, Adams, Gibson, Dolphin, Rolph, Malik, Bacciochi. Subs not used: Smallwood, Donnelly.

Mort Hat-Trick Sinks Alvis

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 15:56:30 GMT

1st April 2024: Coventry Alvis 0-5 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Alvis Sports & Social Club:

A heavy pitch with long grass did not deter The Robins. They set about their task with gusto, none more so than new-boy Connor Mort. He grabbed his Hat-Trick in just twenty-seven minutes.

The first came about when Barnes and Mort beat the off-side trap, for Mort to bemuse keeper Walton and open the scoring. The second was a peach of a shot from a wide angle on the Robins’ left that left the man in Alvis’ goal no chance. The third was a beautiful goal, scored when Mort headed home a Knowle corner from the right.

From this moment on Alvis heads dropped and although Jagit Aujla did his best and led by example to raise things, it was a lost cause.

Indeed, Mort could have – should have – made it four when he again beat the off-side to be clear on goal, only for his effort to be wide with only Walton to beat.

The second half was something of an anticlimax, not surprising really. The impressive Odane Barnes sent the ball on to Jay Rendell who had the simplest of chances to make it four. With twelve minutes to go, Jack Mullen added a fifth.

This was a comprehensive victory on a difficult and heavy pitch. Alvis did not manage a single shot on target for the whole of the game. Everyone who represented The Robins did their job, and did it well, with Conner Mort the shining star.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Taylor; Riddiford (Rainey); Callum Scott; McArdle; Bennett (Jones; Connor Mort [6;24;27]; Mullan; Barnes(Mullen [78]); G Seeley (c)(Hague); Rendell [63]. Sub not used: Toby Scott.

Top of the Table Clash Ends Up Honours Even

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 15:41:37 GMT

30th March 2024: Knowle FC 1-1 Redditch Borough

Ronald Crane reports from the Draintech Community Ground

This match was played in front of a large crowd of 271; the Robins’ largest of the season. That it went ahead at all, given the amount of rain in the past week, is testament to the skill of the Draintech Groundsman, as not many games at all went ahead in the MFL. Indeed, many of the watching spectators were players and staff from other Division Two sides, no doubt intrigued as to which of the front runners would come out on top.

Right from the off, Borough showed their physical intent with two crunching tackles, each of which resulted in the Physio attending a head injury. This set the tone for the first-half. Although The Robins did try to make progress, for the most part this period of the match was played in their own half of the park.

Nevertheless, the reliable Robins’ defence was only breached once, and then because of terrible, and uncharacteristic, defending. This allowed Kelaiah Warren-Paul to chip Goalkeeper Bobby Biddle to open the scoring.

The physios of both sides were kept busy, as player after player went to ground with injury and the match was stopped almost as much as the ball was in play.

For all their dominance in this first period, Borough managed just two more attempts on target, both of which were easily deal with by Knowle’s custodian. As it was there were no more scoring as the players went off for half-time.

I am not sure what was said in the Home Dressing Room, but it was a different side that began the second-half. Odane Barnes beat the Borough goalie and defender only to shave the wrong side of the post. He was a constant threat throughout.

As the match progressed, the home side increased their dominance, so much so that Borough could not managed a single shot on target in that second half. As the ninety minutes drew near, the crowd became restless, the home fans as they urged their favourites on to equalise, the away supporters as they saw which way the wind was blowing.

Ex-Robin Rob Shaw was very lucky not to receive a second yellow, on another day, well it could have been different. As it was the Referee signalled that there were seven minutes of added time. In the third of these he awarded Knowle a penalty following a clumsy challenge. Man of the Match Owain Taylor stepped up and secured a share of the points.

As the players made their way from the field, the Borough supporters were saying that they felt the draw put them in the box seat as far as the championship was concerned. This may be so, but with thirteen games for them still to play, I wonder if there will be any other twists and turns…

The major disaster for Knowle FC was that the Club House ran out of beer!

___________________________________________________________________

Knowle FC: Biddle; Taylor [90+3p]; Rainey; L Clarke; G Clark; Bennett; Scott(Rendell); Mullan; Barnes; G Seeley (c)(Riddiford); Corry (Hague). Subs not used: McArdle & Burston-Keeley.

Battle of the Hampton Roads Ends All Square

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 15:33:16 GMT

23rd March 2024: Central Ajax 1-1 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from (the other) Hampton Road...

We arrived at the ground with the heavens pouring down hail. Would the match survive, or would it be called off? We waited for the verdict. The Referee decided to delay the kick-off for fifteen minutes to give the groundsman a chance to attend to the pitch. As it turned out, it was the correct decision, and the pitch did not cut up as expected.

When we did kick off Knowle were, mentally anyway, still in the Dressing Room. Ajax’s Kuster was offered the chance to send over a cross-shot from the left. It took a deflection and sailed into the net.

The home side took this fortune as an indicator that this just might be their day and they took control of the game.

However, as the first half progressed, Knowle began to assert their authority. With fifteen minutes of the first period to go, Lewis Clarke got the ball over the goal line at a corner.

The Robins had already had a penalty appeal turned down, and right after their goal another appeal for a spot kick was not granted. Then with three minutes to go to the break, Knowle were awarded a penalty when Owain Taylor was brought down. However, Dylon Bennett’s kick was saved by Nath Taylor.

The second half was dominated by Knowle, save for another terrible defensive mistake that allowed the home side to take the lead again. Even so, Knowle had more than enough chances to equalise. Somehow it was just not happening, until George Seeley tapped home to bring the scores level once more.

Now Knowle went for the winner. Shots were wide, saved and blocked, but The Robins could not manufacture that extra goal. Indeed, they were very lucky not to lose the game in the 4th minute of added time when Ajax had the chance to snatch the winner. It was headed off the line superbly by Joe Riddiford.

One could say that a draw was a fair result, but if The Robins had played as we know they can, with a strong robust defence, and clinical scoring, they could have claimed all three points. As it is, they have to be satisfied with just one.

Knowle FC: Biddle; Jones; Riddiford; L Clarke (c) [32]; Bakala-Koussaba; Bennett; Corry; Mullan; Barnes; Taylor; Mullen. Subs – all used – Rendell; Burston-Keeley; Manning; Seeley (c) [71]; Morris.

All Change Robins Get There In The End

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 13:15:11 GMT

16th March 2024: Knowle FC 3-1 Lane Head

The Robins had been idle for five consecutive Saturdays due to postponements caused by unfit pitches. It was therefore not surprising that in the early stages of this match they were rusty; a fact not helped by fielding four debutantes with a number of regulars injured or unavailable.

Nevertheless, it was The Robins who made all the running from the first whistle. Yet the slick passing was misfiring, and the simple things were going wrong. Despite this, Lane Head were chasing shadows.

With twenty minutes on the clock, The Robins were caught in possession in mid-field by Lane Head’s impressive Captain, Kane Taylor. Having won the ball, he took his chance and dished out the ultimate punishment by scoring from some twenty yards. His team mates were ecstatic, The Robins crestfallen.

Rather than feel sorry for themselves, The Robins set about levelling the score. It only took one minute! A Knowle corner from the right was headed home by Odane Barnes.

The home side continued to dominate with Jay Rendell hitting the bar, and a number of attempts on target being saved.

The second half continued much as the first had ended. The Robins’ debutants all acquitted themselves very well. Barnes was a constant threat, Cody Mullan controlled things with the dependable Dylon Bennett, Rioud Bakala-Koussaba assisted the defence with his pace, and in goal Joel Chadwick did well with what little he had to do. Nathan Corry shone, and the shots kept coming. Thirteen minutes from the end, Jack Mullen put The Robins in the lead, and eight minutes later made it three.

When The Robins managed to scrape off the rust, they were a force to be reckoned with, none more so than Man of the Match, Ben Jones.

This is not to say that Lane Head did not have their moments. There were times when the home defence needed to be on the ball, and even deep into added time, the visitor’s Goalkeeper came into The Robins’ area for a corner.

Once The Robins became used to each other, and recovered the sharpness that comes with regular meaningful matches, there was only going to be one winner. But for the most of the match it was scoring that was the problem. As Joint Manager Matthew Seeley said to me afterwards, “I thought the ball was never going into the net!”.

____________________________________

Knowle FC: Chadwick; Jones; Taylor; L Clarke (c); Rioul Bakala-Koussaba; Bennett; Corry (Riddiford); Cory Mullan; Rendell (Burston-Keeley); Mullen [77 & 85]; Barnes [20]. Sub not used: Sinton; Manning. Yellow Card: L Clarke

Knowle Ladies Pick Up Huge Three Points

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 16:59:56 GMT

25th February 2024: Knowle Ladies 3-0 Coventry Sphinx

Knowle Ladies were able to name a full-strength squad last Sunday, and all sixteen players duly produced a superb performance to deliver a vital 3-0 win against Coventry Sphinx.

The home side took the game to their opponents early on, weathering a short period of Sphinx possession with some solid defending that didn’t allow the team in blue to get a shot at goal. No such problem for Knowle though, who scored with their very first attempt of the game after just six minutes. Sam Smith stepped forward to win a loose ball and found Nadia Bacciochi in midfield; she flicked a quick pass forward to Marsha Malik who raced through and slotted her finish past Coventry’s keeper.

The first half momentum was then all with Knowle, who looked dangerous on the attack and assured at the back. Bacciochi and Hayley Joynson both saw long range efforts fly wide before fine team move allowed Katie Adams and Demi Rolph to break free down the right and force a good save from the Sphinx keeper. The Robins were enjoying plenty of possession in the final third, but were perhaps guilty of not getting their shot off quickly enough at times, plus Sphinx worked hard to get blocks and tackles in. At the other end, the away side were restricted to hitting a couple of attempts from outside the penalty area, but one sailed over the bar and keeper Jess Jenkinson easily gathered the second. A long ball over the top nearly fell to the Coventry striker, but excellent defending from Maz Byrne delayed her and enabled Morgan Betteridge to tidy up without threatening goal.

At the other end, a gilt-edged chance then dropped to Rolph when Knowle’s high press won the ball from a Sphinx goal kick. Bacciochi nicked it, Malik found Rolph in the box and although the striker bamboozled two defenders to create plenty of space for the shot, the away side’s keeper threw out a foot and saved it well.

Sphinx’s main threat came from set pieces, and then went close to an equaliser from a deep corner – Smith blocked initial header, Natalie Gibson got in the way of the follow up and Jenkinson rose high to gather the loose ball. Gibson then made an even bigger impact at the other end of the pitch. Another good period of play from Knowle saw them work the ball from left wing to right. Betteridge teed up Malik and although she was crowded out, she had the presence of mind to lay the ball back to Gibson on the edge of the box and the number ten did the rest, dinking a delightful finish over the goalkeeper to put Knowle 2-0 up.

Sphinx threw on subs round the 30 minute mark to try get back into the game, and the right winger nearly had an immediate impact, using her pace to get beyond the Knowle defence. Naomi Henry was able to catch up and turn her round however, and Bacciochi tracked back superbly to help mop up the danger and snuff out the chance. There was just time left in the half for both Gibson and Betteridge to have a crack at goal from free kicks, but neither effort was on target. Knowle were well worth their 2-0 lead at the break.

The second half began at a fast pace, substitutes Sarai McDonald and Jess Barlow causing problems straight away. A neat one-two between the pair looked like it may set McDonald clear through, but the Sphinx defender took the risk of cynically upending her to earn a booking, which could well have been worse. The resulting free kick was cleared out for a corner and another chance for Knowle, but Byrne planted her header just wide. Sphinx simply had no answer to the directness and skills of McDonald and the next Knowle chance fell to her again. Kate Fleming won possession with a well-timed tackle, fed Barlow and she produced a clever turn to break lines and play McDonald in. The young striker rounded the keeper but then saw her shot from a tight angle roll agonisingly across the goal line. A carbon copy of that chance happened not five minutes after, but this time McDonald was forced too wide as she rounded the keeper, so tried to pick out Malik, but the away defence got back well to intercept.

Sphinx tried to gain a foothold in the game and found some joy down their right side again, but Henry produced an inch perfect slide tackle to stop the forward getting her shot away. With twenty minutes left, the game became scrappy with most of the play in midfield and neither side creating much. Sphinx forced a goalmouth scramble with another dangerous corner, then saw a couple of efforts from the edge of the penalty area fly well off target. The pivotal moment arrived on the eighty-minute mark; the referee adjudged Bacciochi to have tripped a Sphinx forward in the box and pointed straight to the spot. Sensing a route back into the game, Sphinx’s skipper stepped forward and struck her kick well, but Jenkinson was having none of it – the keeper pulled off a stunning save, diving full length to her left and pushing the ball wide. Adams cleared the rebound easily and Knowle were able to celebrate. To make matters worse for Sphinx, Adams won the ball back from the resulting throw in, played forward early and player of the match Malik did the rest; racing past her defender and bending a finish into the bottom corner of the net to put Knowle 3-0 up.

That goal seemed to kill off Sphinx hopes of a comeback and Knowle were able to see out the final ten minutes easily. Fresh legs from Rachel Keen and Lily Phelps gave them the upper hand on the left side and they launched a couple of late attacks, from one of which Betteridge found herself striding forward and going close with an effort from twenty five yards.

When the whistle blew soon after, Knowle were more than happy to settle for a 3-0 win, which pulls them out the relegation zone and puts them three points ahead of Sphinx in the league. More pleasing perhaps was that the performance shows how much they have improved since last season, when they were beaten three times by these opponents. Next up for the Ladies is an away game at Crusaders on 3 ^rd March.

Knowle: Jenkinson, Adams (Keen, 80), Henry, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Joynson (Fleming, 30), Gibson, Bacciochi (Barlow, 45), Rolph (McDonald, 45), Malik (Phelps, 80).

New Club Chair - Meet Darryl

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 11:25:23 GMT

Darryl Saunders is Appointed Chair of Knowle FC

It is with great pleasure that the Knowle FC committee would like to introduce the club’s new chairperson, Darryl Saunders.

Darryl is a father of three who brings with him a wealth of football club experience from being chair of Langley FC in London, before recently relocating to Solihull.

Upon accepting the role, Darryl wanted to share the following message:

“I’m very easy going and approachable, so I want everyone who is a part of the club no matter what capacity to know that I’m not here to lead with an iron fist, I’m here to be your friend and to be a part of a community in which we can all help this club grow. I know it’s going to take hard work and my background in business will be put to the test but I’m here for the hard work and I’m here for as long as you will have me.

Together I do truly believe that we can make this club a real hub for the community and a place where people can come and really enjoy football, as I know how important this can be for people. I thank you all for the opportunity and I look forward to getting to know each of you more as we move forward.”

I am sure everyone will join the committee in welcoming Darryl to the club, and wishing him all the best.

The club would also like to place on record once again our thanks to outgoing Chairman, Dave Ratcliffe, who has stepped away for personal reasons. Dave has been a superb Chair, presiding over a hugely positive period for the club and has the respect of all club members, opposition teams and anyone linked to Midlands football.

Ladies Lose Out To League Leaders

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 11:22:23 GMT

4th February 2024: Knowle LFC 0-4 Worcester City

Report to follow

Points Shared Away At Sporting

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 11:22:21 GMT

18th February 2024: Solihull Sporting 2-2 Knowle LFC

Knowle battled hard to win a point away at Solihull Sporting last week, but for long periods it looked as though they may hold out for all three.

The Robins started well, with Marsha Malik's ability to run at the heart of the opposition defence leading to opportunities for Demi Rolph and Natalie Gibson, but the Sporting keeper saved well. It was therefore something against the run of play when Sporting went ahead; good play by the left winger gave her the space to get a cross in and although her cut back missed the intended target, the opposite winger was following in well and hammered a shot past Jess Jenkinson in the Knowle goal.

The goal clearly gave Sporting heart and they piled the pressure onto the away side. Hayley Joynson's strong performance in central midfield meant Solihull had very little space to operate in there, so they began to bypass the area and play direct to the forward, whose speed and skill caused problems for Knowle. Jenkinson had to make a smart save and Maz Byrne pulled off a vital tackle to stop a certain goal.

After weathering the storm however, the balance of play swung in Knowle's favour. Their equaliser was route one football in truth; Jenkinson's huge kick was picked up by Rolph and she flew past the defender and slotted a tidy finish past the Sporting keeper. They were millimeters away from another goal within less than a minute; Morgan Betteridge's free kick dropped towards Sam Smith for a tap in, but the faintest of touches from the defender nudged it away from her head. Knowle did go into the lead before halftime though; Yvette Dolphin won possession in midfield and played Malik in on the right side. She slotted her pass to Rolph who again finished well to give Knowle a 2-1 lead at the break.

Sporting came out for the second half determined to get back into the game and much of the second period was full of sustained pressure from them. Jenkinson produced two fine saves to keep her team in it, and Naomi Henry hacked one off the goal-line. Sporting were always guilty of wastefulness when a couple of gilt-edged chances were blazed over the bar by the centre forward who surely should have hit the target at the very least.

Knowle's chances came on the counter attack; in particular Rolph was agonisingly close to a hat-trick after being sent clear by Katie Adams. She rounded the keeper but then rolled her shot right across the face of goal from a tight angle. Malik then thought she had grabbed an all-important third goal; she collected Betteridge's square ball on the edge of the box and fired her shot into the bottom corner, but the linesman's flag shot up as she wheeled away and the strike was disallowed.

It looked as though Knowle would weather the storm, with defenders clearing everything in and around the box and Jenkinson mopping up attempted through balls with relative ease. However in the 92nd minute they did not get the line right and were caught out by a chip over the top. Sporting's forward could not be caught before producing a cool finish to give her side an equaliser.

2-2 the final score and Knowle had to settle for a point, but at least will be pleased with the performance in comparison to previous weeks.

Knowle: Jenkinson, Adams, Henry, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Dolphin, Joynson (Phelps, 58), Gibson, Rolph, Malik. Subs unused: Keen, Smallwood, Donnelly, Morris.

Semi-Final Bound Robins in Superb Form

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 12:11:19 GMT

3rd February 2024: Knowle FC 3-1 Alcester Town

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground

This much anticipated cup tie was played out with a disappointingly small attendance. As it turned out, one felt sorry for those who were absent. Those of us who were at Hampton Road were treated to a first-half which Knowle just, and only just, shaded. Town could manage just one shot on target in those first forty-five minutes, whereas Jordan Elder between Town’s sticks had seven saves to make. Knowle’s chances were not gilt-edged, but they looked threatening.

This was a match of high quality and a good advert for the standard of Midland Football League Division Two. Although the visitors were kept at bay by Knowle’s iron clad defence, Town’s Odone Barnes was a constant threat. He made a real nuisance of himself, particularly in that first period.

At the other end Jay Rendell was in imperious form. He held the ball up to draw his colleagues into the attack and, aided and abetted by Khalil Harrison and Jack Mullen, they had Town‘s defence at full stretch. Opportunities for The Robins came, and went because the shot was weak, ill-directed, or saved. Just after the half-hour mark, Jay Rendell was put through by a wonderful ball Jack Mullen flick on after a ball from the back. He made no mistake and opened the scoring to be rewarded by loud cheers.

For the rest of those first forty-five minutes, there was little to choose between the sides, save that Town were kept well away from The Robins’ goal. It is a joy to have the privilege of witnessing the solid defence at The Draintech Community Ground. It does not seem to matter who the personnel are, the result is the same; a dearth of goals for the opposition.

The second-half was a totally different matter. Knowle were in full control. Only once did Alcester manage to trouble Bobby Biddle, making his debut deputising for the injured Craig Johnson. The second period was only five minutes old when Jay Rendell doubled his, and The Robins’ tally, when he thumped the ball home. Town did not cave in, but one sensed that their task was futile. Yet still they tried to make progress forward, but to little profit.

The men in red were in total control. The eleven starters and the three substitutes were all magnificent, as Joint Manager Matthew Seeley told me afterwards. Perhaps the loudest cheers were for an eighty first minute goal by Joe Sinton. He scored from the edge of the area, letting fly an unstoppable Exocet following a short corner routine.

This was a comprehensive win for The Robins, and although Town never stopped playing and trying for a goal, the result was foregone well before the final whistle.

The Robins, holders of this trophy, now make it into the Semi-Final, along with Fairfield Villa, Hampton, and Central Ajax.

____________________________________

Knowle FC: Biddle; Rainey; Riddiford; L Clarke; McArdle (c); Bennett; Harrison (Jones); Taylor (Hague); Rendell [34; 50] (Sinton [81]) ; Scott; Mullen. Sub not used: Burston-Keeley. Yellow Card: Mullen

Points Shared Away at Fairfield

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 12:00:50 GMT

20th January 2024: Fairfield Villa 1-1 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Stourbridge Road

The pitch at Stourbridge Road survived a morning inspection, and although just about playable, provided a tough test for both sides.

The Robins were first out of the blocks and dominated for the first half-hour. As we approached the thirty minutes mark, the impressive Darren Green beat the Robin’s left-sided defence and shot low from ten yards. The ball bobbled as Craig Johnson dived to save, and the ball ended up in the net. It was one of just two shots on goal by Villa in the first half.

Knowle were finding the pitch difficult and although they pushed forward, that well-oiled, fluent style was missing. Nine minutes after Villa had edged in front, they were pegged back. A Jay Rendell cross from the right was tapped home by Nathan Corry with the home defence all at sea.

The visiting support in the sizeable crowd now expected The Robins to push on and secure a win. It was not to be. Knowle tried hard enough, but too many false passed and missed tackles, made life difficult. This was the more so, since Villa were growing in confidence.

The whole of the second half was one of frustration for The Robins. They had all the play, all the territory, all the chances, yet without profit. Villa defended deep and with resolve and stubbornness. They still attempted to grab a breakaway goal, but the Knowle defence never looked like being breached a second time. All the action was in the home side’s half of the pitch. Yet that second goal just would not come, despite the good news of Brandan Hague coming on as a late substitute. This was due to some high quality goal keeping by Joshua Meynell, and some wayward and wasteful shooting,

Nevertheless, The Robins did not give up, and deep into added time, they had the ball in the net, only for it to be flagged “off-side”. It was a harsh decision, all the more so galling as video recording did not appear to support the decision.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Taylor; Rainey; Clarke (Jones); McArdle (c); Bennett; Corry [34] (Harrison); Sinton (Hague); Rendell; Scott; Craine (Mullen). Sub not used: Burston Keeley.

Yellow Cards: Taylor; Sinton & Bennett.

Knowle Grind Out Win

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 11:47:46 GMT

13th January 2024: Knowle FC 1-0 Coventry Rangers

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground

On a cold winter’s afternoon, these two sides served up an exciting match, played at high pace with a great deal of skill on display. The Robins fielded two new signings, Khalil Harrison in defence, and Hayden James Perves in attack. Both performed well, although it was unfortunate that Perves had to be substituted after half an hour, with injury. How serious the injury is, we await news.

In the first half there was little between the teams - although The Robins had the majority of the play, Rangers always looked dangerous on the break. Craig Johnson had just one, very easy, shot to save, whereas Jack Hartop at the other end was kept busy. On a bone hard and bumpy pitch, the level of skill was high from both teams. Referee Collett was sparing in his use of the whistle, and of cards.

This was a real football match, yet with defences on top. For all their presence in the Rangers half, one wondered if Knowle would ever score.

Kicking off fifteen minutes late because of the late arrival of one of the Assistant Referees, the talk at half time was whether the match would end before the darkness took over. As it turned out, this did not prove a problem.

Right from the start of the second half, The Robins took control of the match. Their mid-field trio of Bennett, Scott, and Staley were dominant and made sure the visitors were living off scraps as far as attack was concerned. In defence, however, Rangers were resolute and stubborn. In fact, during the second half Rangers did little more than defend.

Six minutes from the end, Tom Craine headed home a Corner in a real six-yard box scramble. The ball was hooked clear by a well placed defender. Had it gone over the goal-line or not? The Assistant Referee had no doubt and was emphatic in his signal of a goal. There were cheers were of joy and relief.

But the drama had not ended. In the ninety-sixth minute Referee Collett awarded Knowle a penalty. It was a clear decision to make. Jay Rendell stepped up and for the second week running, Knowle allowed the ‘Keeper to save the spot kick. Shortly after this, it was all over and The Robins had secured all three points. They had, quite literally, ground out a win.

Knowle FC; Johnson; Harrison (Taylor); Riddiford; Clarke; McArdle (c); Bennett; James Perves (Corry); Staley; Craine [84]; Scott (O’Donnell); Mullen (Rendell). Not used Sinton.

Earlswood Town Hold Robins to a Draw

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 21:43:28 GMT

6th January 2024: Knowle FC 1-1 Earlswood Town

On a difficult pitch, Town held The Robins to share a point each. Try as they might, the home side could find no way through the visitor’s stubborn defence.

Matters may have been different if in the third minute, Knowle had not conceded in midfield for Daniel Elwell to outpace the usually secure home defence and score from eighteen yards.

From this early time in the game, the Earls made sure every throw-in, free kick and goal kick took an age. For the most part it was The Robins camped in their opponents’ half, but they just could not break down a stubborn and well organised defence. Elwell’s strike was to be the only time the away side troubled Craig Johnson between the Robins’ sticks.

Yet, for all their stubborn defence, the Robins’ did cause Ethan Pheasey in goal for the visitors to make eleven saves, many of them top-notch. That said, Knowle lacked imagination in attack, trying the same tactic over and again, and over and again it did not work.

It was as frustrating for the home crowd to watch as it was joyous for the away fans. As well as The Earls’ delaying tactics, they also tried the Referee’s patience, incurring five yellow cards and surviving a confident penalty appeal. As it was, they soaked up all the attack that was thrown at them.

The game was littered with hold-ups, some trivial, others serious multi-player incidents and they all made sure the Robins’ never managed any momentum. Too many passes went astray, too many tackles missed.

When the men in red did manage a shot on target, either Pheasey saved, or it was fluffed. But one goal from eleven chances is poor reward.

With nine minutes left, Knowle managed to score. Tom Craine sending the ball into the net from a free kick right by the right-hand corner pin. This changed the tactics of both sides. The Robins doubled their efforts in an attempt to go for the winner, while the Earls decided to make every effort to regain the lead.

The clock showed eighty-eight minutes when the Referee awarded the home side a penalty. Many thought it less worthy than the one that had been turned down in the first-half. But Tom Craine picked up the ball, and after an unnecessary wait took what was for him, a below par kick and Pheasey made an easy save. We had nearly ten extra minutes, but the Robins had to be satisfied with the point.

On Saturday 13th January 2024 Knowle face AFC Coventry Rangers at the Draintch Community Ground, Kick Off at 2pm.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Taylor (Riddiford); Staley; Clarke; Shaw; Bennett; Corry; Scott; Craine [81]; G Seeley (O’Donnell); Mullen (Rendell): Subs not used Jones & McArdle.

JOIN THE KNOWLE FC COMMUNITY

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 20:18:59 GMT

Volunteers needed to join the club committee

KNOWLE FOOTBALL CLUB ARE THE SECOND LARGEST FOOTBALL CLUB IN THE SOLIHULL BOROUGH.

THIS SEASON THE CLUB IS OPERATING 31 TEAMS COVERING SENIOR, BOYS AND GIRLS FOOTBALL.

THE CLUB IS ALWAYS LOOKING TO EXPAND AND MEET THE DEMAND FOR FOOTBALL IN OUR LOCAL AREA.

WITH THE CLUBS AMBITION TO MOVE TO A STATE-OF-THE-ART NEW FACILTITY, CURRENTLY IN THE PLANNING PROCESS, WE ARE LOOKING TO EXPAND OUR CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS TO HELP THE CLUB ACHIEVE ITS AMBITIONS.

IF YOU WANT TO BE PART OF A DYNAMIC FOOTBALL CLUB AND WANT TO SUPPORT FOOTBALL FOR ALL OUR COMMUNITY, WE ARE CURRENTLY SEEKING APPLICANTS FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: -

CLUB CHAIRPERSON

AS CHAIRPERSON YOU WILL BE THE FIGUREHEAD OF THE CLUB. YOU WILL BE SUPPORTED IN THE ROLE BY THE CLUB SECRETARY, GIRLS SECRETARY, BOYS SECRETARY, LADIES SECRETARY, MEN’S SECRETARY AND CLUB TREASURER.

BOYS SECRETARY

REPORTING TO THE CLUB CHAIRPERSON YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR SUPPORTING AND COMMUNICATING WITH THE BOYS TEAM MANAGERS.

BOOK KEEPER (3 HOURS PER WEEK)

REPORTING TO THE CLUB CHAIRPERSON YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL ADMIN DUTIES ASSOCIATED WITH THE CLUB FINANCES. THE CLUB CURRENTLY RUN SAGE ACCOUNTS SOFTWARE AND EXPERIENCE PREFERABLE BUT NOT ESSENTAIL AS TRAINING WILL BE PROVIDED.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION IS WEDNESDAY 31 ^ST JANUARY

IF YOU HAVE OTHER SKILLS THAT YOU FEEL WOULD BENEFIT THE CLUB OR JUST WANT TO CONTRIBUTE IN ANY WAY, PLEASE GET IN TOUCH.

IF YOU WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY, PLEASE CONTACT tomblesonclaire@gmail.com TO ARRANGE AN INFORMAL DISCUSSION.

Knowle Triumph in Incident Filled Match

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 20:15:04 GMT

30th December 2023: Knowle FC 3-1 Coventry Alvis

With most matches in Division Two of the Midland Football League postponed because of heavy rain, this was one of just two that went ahead on the last Saturday of the year. It was played in front of a disappointing attendance, but it turned out to be incident packed.

Although the pitch was more than playable, it was heavy under foot and energy sapping. Alvis began well enough and after just thirteen minutes Edwards was left unmarked in the six yard box, and made no mistake from close range. The goal was met with an amount of embarrassment by the home players and crowd. It was the Robins who had made all the running thus far and it was Alvis’ first meaningful foray into Knowle territory.

Not surprising that it gave the visitors a real fillip, and they tried to take full advantage. Knowle responded in a positive manner and set about drawing level. There were a few visits to Alvis’ penalty area, but on twenty one minutes, Kingswell was at fault for a foul in the Area, and the Referee awarded the home side a penalty. The visitors did all they could to delay the spot kick, but Tom Craine was too experienced for this tactic to work, and he scored his one hundredth goal for The Robins, rewarded with generous applause.

Just after the half-hour mark there was a clash of players in midfield with both sides claiming they had been wronged. With a calm reaction, Referee Hill bought out the red card and showed it to Martin, the Alvis number sixteen, and a yellow one for Knowle’s Rob Shaw. Following this set-back Alvis appeared to play better with ten men than they had with eleven, and Knowle found it difficult to press home the extra man advantage.

The second half began with Alvis making it obvious that they intended to hold on to what they had and do all in their power to prevent Knowle for grabbing the lead. But with the Robins pressing hard in Alvis territory, it was always going to be a tall order. This proved correct when Man of the Match Toby Scott let fly a real screamer from at least twenty-five yards.

Although Alvis never gave up, it was the crucial turning point, and the men in red never looked back. A cross by Tom Craine was turned home by Jack Mullen to provide a two goal cushion.

Alvis tried hard to make up ground, perhaps they tried too hard, for with five minutes to go, Giampaglia let fly a nasty challenge that left the Referee no option but to produce a second red card for the visitors.

Matters got even worse as we reached ninety minutes when Kearns launched a vicious challenge on Callum Burston-Keeley. A lot of pushing and angry words were exchanged, and the Referee send the Alvis’ player from the field. He left with bad grace.

Burston-Keeley was taken to hospital with a suspected broken leg, but tests showed that he has damaged ligaments and will be out of action for at least six weeks. Rough justice for a man who has just returned from a long lay off with injury. His assailant on the other hand will likely serve a three match ban.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Jones (Taylor); Staley; Lewis Clarke; Shaw; Scott [66]; Mullen [78]; O’Donnell (O’Donnell); Rendell (Corry); G Seeley (c); Craine [21p] (Burston-Keeley). Sub not used: Riddiford

Boxing Day Celebrations for Knowle

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 13:07:01 GMT

26th December 2023: Hampton FC 1-5 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from The Boggery

As the late, great, Jimmy Greaves would say, “It is a game of two halves”. It was certainly true of this match. The Robins, having lost to Hampton in the cup a couple of weeks ago, looked as if they were going to repeat the performance in the first forty five.

The first half was very even, with little to choose between the teams. Hampton denied Knowle’s midfield any space, and took the game to their visitors. They were rewarded with a goal on nineteen minutes when Matt Garbett put the ball into the net.

However, the lead lasted under a minute. Who else but Tom Craine levelled things right from the re-start? For the rest of the first-half, it was much as it had been at Hampton Road back in early December - Hampton denied The Robins space and were very much ‘In your face’.

However, the second half was another matter…Knowle were quite different. Suddenly Scott and Bennett had all the space in the world, and consequently ran mid-field and the match. For the second forty-five minutes the away side were purring.

Ben Jones, who came on as an early substitution for Joe Riddiford, scored from the tightest of angles to nudge Knowle in front. But one felt that the tides had turned; with so much freedom in mid-field, Hampton were struggling. Things got a whole lot worse for the hosts when Matt Garbett was dismissed for a second yellow with forty minutes still to play.

Knowle showed no mercy and Craine scored a second, before providing a gilt edged opportunity for Nathan Corry to make it four. Craine then achieved his hat-trick right on time to make it five.

At the end, Hampton were well beaten. In the second half they managed just one attempt on goal. Knowle on the other hand who had struggled in the first period, with forty – yes 40 – passes going astray; only allowed eighteen to go astray in the second half.

At the end it was a comprehensive victory, and if the sending off inflated the score, one feels it did not affect the result.

On Saturday 30th December, The Robins welcome Coventry Alvis to the Draintech Community Ground for a 2pm Kick Off.

Knowle FC: Johnson: Staley; Riddiford (Jones [52]); L Clarke: Shaw; Bennett; Mullen (Corry [82]; Scott; Rendell (Taylor); G Seeley (O’Donnell); Craine [20: 54: 90+2] Sub not used: Palmer.

Robins Struggle With Conditions in Loss at Coventrians

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 12:53:28 GMT

16th December 2023: Coventrians 2-1 Knowle FC

A strong wind blowing diagonally from corner Flag, to corner flag, a difficult pitch and determined opposition were the challenges of this match.

Despite those challenges, from the first whistle The Robins’ took the game to their hosts. Yet with the high wind causing trouble, not helped by a difficult pitch, playing football was always going to be at a premium. But it only took thirteen minutes for Knowle to take the lead. Callum Burston-Keeley’s Corner from the left, was caught by the wind and sailed into the net passed the hapless Connolly in Goal.

The Robins were unable to capitalize on their advantage, and seven minutes later Graham brought the scores level. Many in the crowd thought he had fouled a defender in the process, but Referee Collin was satisfied all was fair.

Whatever the rights and wrongs, the goal rejuvenated the Coventrians. They followed the well tested tactic of crowding their opponents, and allowing them very little space. The pitch was taking its toll as passes went astray. The Robins were finding it difficult, and could not get their passing game going. A defensive mix up then allowed Brown to put the home side ahead.

The Robins tried to respond, but were thwarted. Tom Craine, and Jay Rendell both squandered gilt-edged chances. As time ticked by, the Robins began to panic. The harder they tried, the worse things were. At the end the Robins had recorded their first away defeat of the season, and conceded their first away goals to Coventrians.

It is clear that there is much work for Clive and Matthew Seeley to do for the second half of the season, a fact acknowledged by Clive Seeley when we spoke after the game.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Taylor (Riddiford); Staley; Lewis Clarke (c); Rainey (Bourn); Bennett (Palmer); Burston-Keeley [13] (Corry); Shaw; Rendell; Scott; Craine. Sub not used: O’Donnell.

Cup Defence Ends Early

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 12:40:34 GMT

9th December 2023: Knowle FC 1-2 Hampton FC

Going into the match, The Robins had not played for two weeks because of postponements, whereas Hampton had played last Saturday. The Robins were also missing the unavailable George Seeley, Jack Mullen and the cup-tied Dan Ellwell.

Congratulations to the groundsman at Hampton Road whose hard work enabled the match to go ahead despite recent persistent rain. Nevertheless, The Robins looked rusty and never really fired on all cylinders. Too many players were below par and with Hampton really up for the game, the result was not really a surprise.

The visitors controlled the midfield for most of the game, and but for some wonderfully agile saves by Craig Johnson the difference between the two sides could have been far greater.

As it was, Knowle actually went ahead when Tom Craine pounced on a defensive error to open the scoring. Yet Hampton had their fair share of the game, therefore an equalising goal always looked likely. It came right on forty-five minutes, when the impressive Murdie capitalised on a defensive error to score. At the halfway point, things were all square.

The start of the second half was Knowle’s best period. They pinned Hampton back and forced three corners in quick succession, but without a positive result. Then just past the hour mark Ainsley Seivwright produced a goal for Hampton to take the lead.

Matters got worse for The Robins when Froggatt put the visitors two goals clear. Knowle did all they could to draw even, and Tom Craine scored his second goal with ten minutes to go. With seven minutes of the ninety left, a nasty injury to Bushford in the Hampton goal forced him to leave the field, to be replaced in goal by Alex Birch who until then, had worn the number three shirt.

It was a great disappointment that for the remaining fifteen minutes that were played, Knowle could not force the substitute goalkeeper to make one save.

Hampton deserved their win, they were the better side.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Rainey; Riddiford (Staley); Lewis Clarke (c); Shaw; Bennett (Bourn); Corry (Jones); O’Donnell (Palmer); Craine [21&80]; Scott; Taylor (Rendell).

Honours Even at The Valley

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 15:04:40 GMT

25th November 2023: Birmingham United 0-0 Knowle FC

Although the sun shone brightly all afternoon, it was bitterly cold at The Valley. As Referee Paul Rodway blew the final whistle the temperature was just 3 degrees.

As to the football, United began the brighter, The Robins started slowly and nervously. For twenty minutes the home side were on the up, however when Knowle found their feet they were more than a match for their opponents.

It was an afternoon of few clear-cut chances and a plethora of mistakes. United promised much, but delivered very little. Only twice in the game did they really threaten The Robins’ goal, and on both occasions Craig Johnson saved the day. In the first with a miraculous save, and in the second with sheer presence to foil Alex O’Keefe.

At the other end, United had to defend seven shots on target…three of them ought to have produced goals. All were fluffed. For the most part it was The Robins’ defence that was on top, with Joe Riddiford shining. Up front his teammates could have done much better.

If the first half had been played out mainly in mid-field, the second period was very different. The Robins increased their pace, and pushed their hosts back into their own half, reducing them to the long – hopeful – ball forward. A tactic that Messers Johnson, Taylor, Riddiford, Clarke, and Rainey were more than capable of controlling.

As the game began to slip away from United they tuned on the rough-stuff. Referee Rodway issued five yellow cards to United in that second period. United committing nine offences to The Robins’ three. One had to be proud of Knowle men, who refused to be provoked and ended the match with no cards issued.

Is this result a point won, or two lost? One suspects The Robins’ management see it as two lost. However, Knowle are still undefeated away from the Draintech Community Ground, still to concede an away goal. With eighteen league games still to play, one has to remind oneself that the football season is a marathon, not a sprint.

On Saturday 2nd December, Knowle travel to Field Lane, Solihull to face Hampton FC in a County Saturday Vase Second Round fixture. KO is at 1400.

Ladies Battle to an Important Win

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 18:55:02 GMT

12th November 2023: Knowle LFC 2-0 Burton Albion

Knowle Ladies produced a battling performance to beat Burton Albion 2-0 at home last weekend, picking up a valuable three points towards their goal on staying in the Premier Division in this their first season in this league.

A wet and windy Robins Nest observed the silence for armistice day, then watched the home side start with a bang. Knowle were on the front foot immediately, and produced a number of good moves in the opening stages. They went ahead just under ten minutes in; Jess Barlow and Jess Holland combined well to feed the overlapping Morgan Betteridge on the right hand side. Her cross was inch perfect and Nadia Bacciochi merrily smashed it home from ten yards out to give her side the lead. Burton stuck to their game plan and played several long balls down Knowle’s left side, but Naomi Henry was alert to the danger and mopped up well, ably assisted by wing back Katie Adams when required. Jess Holland was alert on the back post to clear the danger on the one occasion a cross did come in.

Knowle’s next chance fell to Adams when she connected with a Betteridge corner but her attempt flew over the bar. Soon after Demi Rolph wriggled free in the box but could not get enough power behind her shot to trouble Burton’s keeper. A couple of late challenges in the Knowle penalty area saw play stopped for some time; firstly keeper Jess Jenkinson was clattered after bravely clearing and the Kate Fleming suffered a clash of heads when she headed a corner clear. Jenkinson was in the action again when she made an excellent save to deny the forward, before distributing the ball quickly. Knowle roared into the counter attack, Rolph slipped in Bacciochi and this time she produced a thunderbolt shot from the right side that beat the keeper all ends up.

The rest of the half became somewhat disjointed, with tackles flying in and regular stoppages disrupting any chance of the game flowing. Knowle could perhaps have extended their lead late on when Bacciochi went clear again, but the Burton defender was able to get back in the nick of time to block her shot. Both sides picked up a booking in the latter stages of the half, but Knowle were well worth their 2-0 lead when the whistle blew. Burton’s best chance had come late on with a well worked recycled corner; Jenkinson did extremely well to gather the high ball just under the crossbar at her near post.

The early stages of the second half followed the same pattern as that messy end to the first forty-five. Both sides struggled to keep possession, and the game was a physical battle. Burton then changed shape which gave them more possession and they really began to threaten the Knowle goal. Jenkinson produced another superb save at her near post, and Yvette Dolphin stuck out a foot to deflect a shot that was no doubt about to nestle in the bottom corner.

Knowle gambled by bring on all five subs and the fresh legs no doubt helped, with all five players working hard to stem the Burton tide. Knowle’s best chances of the second half both fell to Rolph; her shot from distance after picking up a half clearance nearly caught the back pedalling keeper off guard, and the same custodian made a very good low save to stop a snapshot. Rolph was in the thick of it at the other end too, heading a corner off the goal-line to preserve her side’s clean sheet.

Burton piled forward in the last fifteen minutes and the Robins had their backline to thank for maintaining their lead. Maz Byrne made an incredible block on the goal-line and followed it up with a thundering tackle, then Sam Smith blocked two shots in a row. Burton came closest from another corner, with the forward’s attempt bouncing back off the bar before Smith cleared. It felt like a goal would come, but Knowle had other ideas and stood firm. Late on it was Henry’s turn to save her team, launching herself into the way of the forceful shot and then reacting well to block the rebound too.

An incisive first half performance and a fighting second half one gave Knowle their 2-0 win then, with all sixteen members of the matchday squad making huge contributions. In a quirk of the fixture list, they will play Burton Albion again next week, away at the Pirelli Stadium with a 3pm kick off.

Knowle: Jenkinson, Holland, Betteridge (Smith, 65), Byrne, Henry, Adams (Phelps, 65), Dolphin, Fleming (Joynson, 65), Barlow (Clarke, 65), Rolph, Bacciochi (McDonald, 65).

Late Heartbreak for Knowle Ladies

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 18:46:28 GMT

4th November 2023: Knowle LFC 2-3 Shrewsbury Town

The second game against Shrewsbury Town this season for Knowle Ladies ended in the same scoreline as they went down 2-3 at home on Sunday.

The game started in a cagey fashion from both sides, without much play in the final thirds at either end of the pitch. Yvette Dolphin and Kate Fleming were making the midfield a battleground and there was little action to report in the early stages. Shrewsbury attempted to switch the focal point of their attack to the wings, and it was the first time they did get behind the Knowle backline that bought the first goal on fifteen minutes. The winger drove forward to the byline and cut the ball back, and Katie Adams was the unfortunate Knowle player who turned the ball into her own net whilst running back towards goal. This gave the away side a boost and they controlled the rest of that first half. They had the ball in the net again soon after, but Knowle’s backline had pushed forward rapidly to catch the striker offside.

Young goalkeeper Jess Jenkinson showed just why she had been selected, saving her team on a couple of occasions, firstly with a superb reaction save down low to her left and then pushing the ball round the post from a long range effort. Shrewsbury looked certain to score when Jenkinson blocked a 1v1 on the edge of the box only for it to fall straight to the forward following up, but her first time effort hit her strike partner who standing on the penalty spot following the original attempt and was promptly flagged offside.

Knowle’s opportunities were limited, but Nadia Bacciochi was causing problems up front. She skipped through a couple of tackles in the box before her shot was blocked by the last defender and then teed up Jess Barlow on the back post. The midfielder’s attempt was gathered easily by the Shrewsbury keeper however.

This period of pressure sent the Robins into halftime in good spirits, and that showed straight after the break. Natalie Gibson came on and immediately made a difference, hitting a trademark long range attempt that flew just wide. Knowle were on the front foot and it paid off when Barlow snapped into the tackle deep in the Shrewsbury half to win possession. Fleming picked up the ball and played through to Demi Rolph, who raced into the box, beat her defender and nicely slotted the ball home past the keeper.

With the teams on level pegging, they traded blows as the half wore on. Jenkinson pushed a looping shot over the crossbar and Bacciochi was inches away from connecting with Rolph’s cross. Shrewsbury were the team to go ahead though when their left sided forward cut inside and unleashed an absolute rocket that flew in from distance. Knowle refused to give up, bringing on Lily Phelps and Bex Clarke to provide additional energy in midfield. They were rewarded for their efforts with 89 minutes on the clock. Maz Byrne played to Jess Holland and she found Rolph out wide on the right. Her cross landed perfectly for Adams deep in the area and she was coolness personified as she took a touch and fired her shot into the net.

It looked as though Knowle had snatched a draw, but there was one last chance for Shrewsbury. A miss-hit shot looped high into the air in the penalty area; Jenkinson looked favourite to claim but the Shrewsbury forward jumped in and collided with her. The ball spilt out, bounced off the downed striker and fell straight to another Shrewsbury player who poked her shot in at the far post.

Heartbreak for Knowle as that was virtually the last kick of the game; the final whistle blew on restart for confirm that 2-3 scoreline. A good performance from the Robins however, especially in the second half where they ended up being undone by that cruel luck late on. The team face Burton Albion at home next Sunday; a chance to bounce back.

Knowle: Jenkinson, Holland, Betteridge (Smith, 45), Byrne, Henry (Phelps, 65), Adams, Dolphin, Fleming (Clarke, 65), Barlow (Joynson, 65), Rolph, Bacciochi (Gibson, 45).

Knowle Blow Away Inkberrow

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 10:53:11 GMT

4th November 2023: Knowle 7-0 Inkberrow

Ronald Crane reports from Hampton Road

It is thanks to the hard work of the Knowle ground staff that this match could go ahead. With rain and the edges of Storm Ciaran about, they made sure this match would survive. Referee Mr Betteridge had no hesitation in declaring the pitch fit for play.

The match was heavily one-sided as the visitors found the going really tough. Their front runners were living on scraps, the mid-field overrun, and the defence fully stretched. Yet they continued to try their best to gain a foothold on the match. Alas it was not to be. The Robins were in total ascendency.

It took The Robins just six minutes to take the lead. Jay Rendell’s shot was blocked and Toby Scott put the rebound into the net. Six minutes later Tom Craine doubled the score. However, the goal deluge did not follow. Sixteen shots on target could only produce these two goals in the first forty five minutes, a point I am sure Matthew Seeley made loud and clear at half-time.

Whatever was said in the home dressing room at half-time, it had effect. Inkberrow did start the second half with renewed resolve, but it was quickly snuffed out. Lewis Clarke headed home Dylon Bennett’s corner with the second period just five minutes old.

On the two occasions when Inkberrow did manage to progress into The Robins’ area, Rob Shaw produced tackles of the highest quality. There was no room for error, any mistake on his part would have resulted in a penalty.

On sixty eight minutes, Jay Rendell received a superb pass from Adam Bourn to open his account for the day. Four minutes later he doubled his tally. Seventeen minutes from the close Tom Craine converted the Penalty awarded for a foul on Liam O’Donnell. As if that were not enough, Adam Bourn made it seven. This was a just reward for his high work rate and effort.

Next Game: On Saturday 11th November, Knowle travel to Redditch Borough in the MFL.

Knowle FC; Johnson; Taylor (Rainey); Staley (Jones); Clarke (c) [50]; Shaw; Bennett (Riddiford); Bourn [86]; O’Donnell; Rendell [68 & 72]; Scott [6]; Craine [12 & 73p]. Sub not used: G Seeley.

Craine Sparks Ten Man Robins to Three Points

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 09:29:34 GMT

28th October 2023: Cadbury Athletic 0-4 Knowle

Ronald Crane reports from Bournville Recreation Ground

This match was, perhaps, the best Robins performance of the season so far. Cadbury were put to the sword with an excellent display of high-quality football. Tom Craine hit the net twice and was a constant threat to the home side all afternoon.

He did not do it all on his own of course, his team-mates were all on top form. Although Athletic began like a greyhound springing out of the traps, the Robins were more than up to the task of defending.

Finding their feet about ten minutes into the game, Jack Mullen opened the scoring following a corner. Ten minutes later it was two courtesy of Craine who was on hand to tap home a rebound for the first of his two scores. The second came in the second half when he converted a seventy-five minute penalty after he had been fouled in the area.

Matters got even worse for Athletic when James Perry turned the ball into his own net.

With the Robins three up at the break, the second half was not as exciting, but the Knowle were always in control without extending themselves.

For a match that had very few nasty challenges, six yellow cards seemed strange, seven if you include the one that sent Athletic’s Evans to the Sin Bin. Nathan Corry was sent off with thirty minutes to go for a second yellow card.

Throughout the game there were incidents of ill-discipline. The Robin’s Joint Manager, Matthew Seeley was shown a red card for pushing an opponent after he himself had been pushed by the player. He left the ground and after the game was over, returned collect his kit from the dressing room. It was reported to me that a member of the crowd accosted him. There were some ugly scenes, although order was quickly restored.

These events rather overshadowed The Robins wonderful victory. Yet when the dust has settled, it is another three points.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Taylor (Jones); Staley; Clarke; Shaw; Bennett; Corry; Scott; Craine [24:75p] (McArdle); G Seeley (O’Donnell); Mullen [13] (Bourn).

Rendell Sinks Hornets to Send Knowle Through

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 15:49:25 GMT

21st October 2023: Knowle 6-1 Balsall & Berkswell

The result of this game would seem to point to the view that it was one-way traffic, and a miss-match. That is less than half the truth. What is true is that The Robins were well worth their convincing win.

However: without playing really well, The Robins went two goals in front courtesy of two strikes by Jay Rendell. The first, on eleven minutes was laid on for the front man by a beautifully weighted pass, through mid-field, from captain George Seeley. The second repeated the move.

Just five minutes later a mistimed tackle deep in The Robins’ penalty area resulted in the well-placed referee awarding the visitors a penalty. Jack Archer made no mistake from twelve yards.

The goal gave the Hornets more vigour, more pace, more resolve. They were on top for the remainder of the first half. Indeed, one could say that the half-time whistle came at just the right time for The Robins.

The re-start reasserted the home side’s dominance, and within three minutes Lewis Clarke headed home a corner to restore the two goal lead. Hornets’ heads dropped. But they kept going nevertheless, although unable to trouble Craig Johnson in the Knowle goal.

Jay Rendell made it a hat-trick before Nathan Corry scored a wonderful lone effort on the Knowle right and hit the net from an acute angle. With three minutes left, Liam O’Donnell made it six to his, and his team-mates, extreme joy.

Finally, it is worth saying that this game was played in a good spirit, with just thirteen fouls and one yellow card for the Hornets’ Ryan Cranage.

It is back to League action next Saturday when The Robins travel to Cadbury Athletic for a MFL Division Two game.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Jones (Riddiford); Staley; Clarke [48] (McArdle ©); Shaw; O’Donnel [87]l; Corry [72]; Taylor; Rendell [11,30,58]; G Seeley ©(Bennett); Bourn. Sub not used: Mullen.

Attendance: 104

Knowle Too Good For Valiant Villa

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 13:58:28 GMT

14th October 2023: Knowle FC 4-0 Fairfield Villa

The Robins’ cruised to their eighth league win on the trot on Saturday afternoon. In that time the boys in red have scored thirty-one goals, conceding just one. Although Knowle were on top throughout, Villa never gave up, and right to the final whistle they were striving for that elusive goal. It was not to be.

That said, early on there was an almighty mix-up in the home penalty area. Craig Johnson made a tremendous effort to save the day. It was as near to a goal as Villa would come.

For the most part, it was Knowle who had possession and territory. Yet even when out of possession, Knowle were on top form.

Jay Rendell grabbed his goal with a great strike from twelve yards. Just after the thirty-minute mark, Nathan Corry put the finishing touch to the second ball following a Knowle free kick from distance.

Although, for the main, it was one-way traffic, there were far too many mistakes for the Knowle management to be completely satisfied. Even so, eleven minutes after the re-start, Tom Craine headed home to make it three. It was a reward that his over-all play richly deserved. Indeed, he was nominated the home side’s Man of the Match.

With the game petering out, and Villa still striving for that goal, Nathan Corry put icing on the Knowle cake with his second goal at the hour point, albeit helped by a hefty deflection.

Afterwards, Knowle Joint Manager Clive Seeley told me how pleased he was with the performance, the result, and the attendance. With all members of the squad firing on all cylinders he and his fellow manager have selection problems. There are problems most managers long to have.

On Saturday 21 ^st October, The Robins welcome Balsall and Berkswell FC to the Robin’s nest for the first round of the County Saturday Vase. Kick off is 2pm.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Taylor; Riddiford; Clarke; Shaw; Bennett (O’Donnell); Corry [36&60]; Scott (Jones); Rendell [18] (Bourn); G Seeley ©; Craine [56]. Sub not used: Sinton.

Dolphin's Strike Gives KLFC The Win

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 09:59:55 GMT

8th October 2023: Lichfield City 0-1 Knowle Ladies

After these two sides faced each other last week, it was no surprise that this game was a cagier affair with each team knowing the threat their opponents offered. It was Knowle who came out on top this time, with a hard fought 0-1 win.

The Robins once again started the better side, sweeping through midfield to attack the Lichfield backline. Good defensive blocks thwarted an attempt on goal however, until Nadia Bacciochi found space off the right side and shot just wide. Natalie Gibson’s free kick was also comfortably dealt with by the home side keeper.

After that bright opening fifteen, it was Lichfield who came into ascendency and Knowle had to weather the storm. Good play out wide on the right created space in the box for the striker to pick her spot, but Jess Holland came from nowhere to whip the ball of her toes. Katy Smirthwaite then suffered a heart in mouth moment as a long-range effort burst through her hands, but thankfully she got enough on it to divert the ball onto the bar and gather the rebound. Sam Smith also had to stretch to head away two Lichfield corners under heavy pressure.

To change momentum, Knowle made the radical decision to make five subs all in one go, and this did even the balance of play up again. Lily Phelps was straight into the action breaking up play in the middle of the park and did not allow Lichfield any time or space, plus Maz Byrne on her return from injury was in no mood to concede. The first half drew to a close with no further chances for either side; that shot against the woodwork the closest that either side had come to a goal, in contrast to last week’s high scoring affair.

The second half began in much the same fashion; a midfield battleground with both defences staying tight. Knowle had the better of the chances, using fast attacks on transition and set pieces to their advantage. Celina Smallwood floated in a superb free kick that Smith couldn’t quite reach, sending her header over the bar. Youngster Sarai McDonald was so close to giving her side the lead when she raced onto a pass from Bacciochi and rounded the keeper, but the two defenders were able to get back and block her attempt from a wide angle on the line. It seemed like the deadlock would be broken and so it proved; Byrne thundered into a challenge on halfway and played the ball straight over the top for Yvette Dolphin. The midfielder made no mistake with her finish, slotting past the Lichfield keeper nicely for a 0-1 lead.

Lichfield were seeing plenty of the ball out wide, but could not break down a stubborn Knowle defence and as the clock ticked on, they started to leave gaps at the back which the Robins very nearly exploited. The lively Demi Rolph went in behind twice with her quick feet but the keeper was equal to both attempts. Lichfield’s best attempt came on 83 minutes; the forward beat Smirthwaite to a high ball as it bounced into the box and looped her header over the Knowle keeper, but it struck the outside of the post and rolled harmlessly away.

The Knowle backline repelled everything thrown at them as the match drew to a close. A late free kick for Lichfield saw them flood the penalty area with all ten outfield players, but it was Smith who rose highest to head away and the referee duly blew for full time. An important victory for Knowle, the manner of which will please all the team as they showed the battling qualities they will need to keep themselves in this league.

Next week sees County Cup action, as Knowle welcome Birmingham City to Hampton Road for a 2pm kick off.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Holland, Betteridge, Smith, Henry (Byrne, 30), Adams, Fleming (Phelps, 30), Barlow (Smallwood, 30), Gibson (Dolphin, 30), Rolph, Bacciochi (McDonald, 30).

Skipper Seeley Smashes Three in Cup Victory

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 15:55:55 GMT

7th October 2023: Knowle 7-0 Feckenham FC

The gulf between MFL Divisions Three and Two was laid bare in this match. Feckenham are third in Division Three, but were no match for a Knowle side who ran rampant. Fitter, tactically more aware, quicker thinking, and with a higher level of skill, the home side were superior in every respect.

Having said that it could all have been so different but for two incidents in the first half of this one-sided affair. As early as the second minute Rob Shaw had to make a last-ditch tackle deep in the Knowle Area. There was no room for error. Any error would have resulted in a penalty. As it was the defender’s timing and accuracy was perfect, and he thwarted a goal attempt.

The second was in the 18 ^th minute when an error in mid-field allowed Feckenham to progress. Bowen’s fierce shot from the right-hand side of the Area needed a top notch save from Craig Johnson in the Knowle goal. Had either of these efforts been successful, matters could have been different; perhaps not the result, but certainly the scoreline.

Those two forays were to be Feckenham’s only meaningful attempts on goal. As early as the 7 ^th minute Jack Mullen had put the home side ahead when he headed home a Dylon Bennett corner. Jay Rendell doubled the lead on the half-hour mark, and Nathan Corry made it three and beyond doubt seven minutes from the break.

It was no surprise that The Robins began the second-half in an uncertain way. Realising this, the home bench made five substitutions around the hour mark. These injected renewed energy into Knowle’s play and four more goals were the result. George Seeley grabbed a second-half hat-trick, and Tom Craine secured the goal he deserved right on full time.

Speaking with Clive Seeley afterwards he said he was disappointed that his charges missed a number of chances. But overall, he was full of satisfaction at the result.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Taylor; Riddiford; L Clarke ©; Shaw (Manning); Bennett (G Seeley [69:81:90]); Mullen [7],(Jones); O’Donnell; Rendell [29] (Craine [90+2]); Scott; Corry [38] (Bourn). Yellow Card 82 Scott.

Shoot Out Woe for Knowle Ladies

rob@hattonelectrical.co.uk (Rob Cannell) — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 15:33:43 GMT

1st October 2023: Knowle Ladies 3-3 Lichfield City (3-4 on pens)

The FA Cup has produced drama on several occasions for Knowle Ladies FC; this year was no different, albeit this time they fell on the wrong side of the outcome, going out of the competition on penalties to Lichfield City.

With a large crowd in attendance, Knowle were in buoyant mood though the first action was actually created by Lichfield. A long punt forward was headed clear by Sam Smith, but then blasted back over the Knowle defence and gathered at the back post by the centre forward who slotted home. The assistant referee’s flag duly went up to confirm she was a long way offside, and from there on it was all Knowle attack wise. They buried their first chance; Natalie Gibson threaded in Nadia Bacciochi who gleefully chipped the keeper to put Knowle one nil up.

The reds sensed blood and steamed forward, creating a number of opportunities. Demi Rolph met Katie Adams’ cross but poked her shot just wide of the upright, then Adams herself was denied by a fine save after she gathered a deep cross at the back post. When Lichfield did venture forward, they were halted by a fine tackle by Naomi Henry, who retained possession and fed Yvette Dolphin. The midfielder showed a clean set of heels to her marker and slid in Bacciochi who once again produced the finish against her old side.

With just fifteen minutes gone, it looked as though it could be a one-sided contest, but the Robins soon had problems to deal with. Keeper Katy Smirthwaite slipped when kicking and aggravated a knee injury, and although she gingerly played on, it may have had a hand in Lichfield pulling one back. A long diagonal beat Knowle’s left side, Smirthwaite was unable to come off her line and the Lichfield winger snuck in to power a strong finish past her.

The Robins continued to create however, with Gibson thundering a long range effort off the bar and the away side’s keeper making a double save from Bacciochi & Adams in quick succession. As time ticked past the 45 minute mark, Knowle really should have gone into the half time period ahead, but with the last action of the half, Lichfield won a corner. Slack Knowle marking gave their attacker a free header and she equalised easily.

Knowle were certainly more organised in the second half, despite that set back, and substitutes Morgan Betteridge and Jess Holland added some steel to the ranks. They enjoyed a good spell early in the half, creating chances from which Rolph couldn’t quite get a strong enough shot off. The home side took the lead when Kate Fleming was pole-axed in the penalty area; Rolph stepped up to smash her penalty beyond the keeper and put the score 3-2 in Knowle’s favour.

They should have extended the lead a couple of times after; Gibson hit the bar again, this time with a free kick and the rebound bounced off Bacciochi and went wide. Adams found space in the box but her shot was blocked and a cross from Fleming rolled across the goal line without any Knowle players getting a decisive touch. As the match rolled into the last fifteen minutes, Lichfield threw caution to the wind and started pouring forward to put sustained pressure on the Knowle backline. The defenders worked hard to keep them out, restricting them to long range attempts or through balls that sailed harmlessly out of play, but Knowle found it difficult to get out of their own half. Lichfield’s best chance was an effort blazed over the bar from a good cross and it looked like that would be that. However, the added time ticked onwards and with 95 minutes on the clock, another speculative long range effort deceived Smirthwaite and could only be palmed into the net; three all and heading to penalties. There was actually one last chance for Knowle; Gibson’s free kick fell to Jess Barlow at the back post but her effort did not have the power to beat the keeper.

So spot kicks it was; Knowle were in the ascendency when Gibson and Smith buried the first two and Smirthwaite saved Lichfield’s second effort. However Dolphin’s attempt bounced off the inside of the post to leave things square. Rolph scored her second penalty of the game and Lichfield responded; 3-3 with one kick left. Holland bravely stepped up but the keeper made the save and Lichfield’s fifth taker blasted her shot straight down the middle and into the net to send them through. Unsavoury scenes followed with a number of Lichfield players taking their celebrations too far, but Knowle held their heads high and did not respond to the provocation. They will look to take their revenge via performances on the pitch instead, as the two sides face each other in the league next week.

A disappointing end to this year’s FA Cup, with that last gasp goal spoiling what had been a good team performance. In truth, Knowle could have been out of sight in the first thirty minutes of the game so will take forward the lessons learned and regroup quickly.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw (Holland, 45), Smallwood (Betteridge, 45), Smith, Henry, Adams; Fleming, Gibson, Dolphin, Rolph, Bacciochi (Barlow, 60). Subs not used: Byrne, Phelps, Joynson.

Mullen & Craine Combine to Down Littleton

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 12:29:21 GMT

30th September 2023: Littleton 0-6 Knowle

Knowle travelled to the heart of the Worcestershire countryside for this fixture. Five Acres is a pleasant ground, and well appointed.

We are now just one third of the way through this season. Knowle sit in top spot having conceded just six goals, and none away from home. In the process, they have scored thirty goals.

Matches where top verses bottom are not always as straightforward as one might think. However, the Robins were in total control from the very first whistle until the last. The home side were unable to manage a single shot on, or off, target. Every one of the fifteen players wearing the Robin’s away blue shirt, were superb, hard-working, and highly skilled. In mid-field especially, their dominance was most apparent.

Littleton are a young side, who never lost their shape, or gave up. But the stark truth is they were just not up to the required standard.

It took just seventeen minutes for the Robins to open the scoring. A spell of ‘ping-pong’ in midfield allowed Tom Craine to round the goalkeeper, beat the defender and tap home. Ten minutes later the lead had doubled. Knowle attacked on their left, the cross gave Mullen the chance, which he took with glee. Another ten minutes had elapsed when a defensive mix-up gave Tom Craine the opportunity to double his tally, and make his side’s tally up to three goals.

Although Littleton made a change after the break, it made little difference. Knowle continued to run the show. Lewis Clarke scored a beautiful goal at the back post. Jack Mullen got a second when he benefitted from a perfect cross by Nathan Corry. However, the icing on the cake was a splendid effort from distance by ‘Man of the Match’ Toby Scott. The ball had hit the net before the goalkeeper had moved.

This was a comprehensive victory and the scoreline reflected just how superior the away side were.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Taylor; Staley (Manning); Clarke [62]; Shaw; Bennett (O’Donnell); Mullen [25 & 77]; Scott [89]; Rendell; G Seeley © (Riddiford); Craine [17 & 36] (Corry).

Robins Too Strong for Town

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 08:58:51 GMT

23rd September 2023 - Earlswood Town 0-3 Knowle

From the first whistle to the last, The Robins were in control of this match both when in possession, and when out of possession. As early as the tenth minute, although no goal had been scored, one felt the result was foregone conclusion. Town’s body language gave the impression of a side who knew they were up against it.

The Robins were magnificent. In charge at the back, in midfield and up front. The 3-5-2 formation employed by Town, never wrested control of mid-field from the men from the Draintech Community Stadium.

It was twenty minutes into the game before Town managed to get into the Robins’ area, and not a single shot on – or off – target in the first forty-five minutes. Strangely enough it was immediately after The Robins had scored, that Town made any progress forward. The goal was a good one; George Seeley benefited from good work by Rendell and Mullen to hit the net from twelve yards.

Town were poor in this first half, and could only improve in the second period. They did, but without any conviction or end product. The second half was just a minute old, when George Seeley hit a free kick from thirty-five yards into the top of the net. It sealed the game and the points. Town tried to rally, but the game had, in truth, already gone. Such was The Robins’ superiority.

Ten minutes into the second half, Town did have a good spell and forced Craig Johnson to make two quick saves, and a follow up was headed from the goal-line. It was Town’s only real attack.

Just after the hour mark, Tom Craine made it three when an unforced error in Town’s defence allowed him to pounce and bemuse Pheasey between Town’s sticks to get the ball over the line. It was a goal born of persistence and the desire to score.

For the rest it was Robins in control and Town often chasing shadows. Clarke and Shaw at the back, Bennett and Scott in mid-field were excellent. The harsh truth is that the 3-0 scoreline flattered the home side. The Robins ought to have scored more.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Taylor; Staley (Jones); Clarke; Shaw; Bennett; Mullen; Scott (Manning); Rendell; G Seeley [20&46]; Craine [62](Bourn). Sub not used Riddiford.

Rinse & Repeat for Men's First Team

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 23:03:55 GMT

16th September 2023: Knowle 4-0 Central Ajax

Newly promoted Central Ajax arrived at Hampton Road with high hopes. As it turned out, they were second best in every respect as Knowle cranked out their second 4-0 win in a row. In fitness, in tactics, in skill and in desire Knowle were superior. With the home defence as solid as a rock, and forwards who chased everything and harried the visiting defenders, it was only in mid-field that the visitors had any joy, and that for just a brief period in the first half. Even this came to an abrupt end, when Adam Bourn opened the scoring with a beautifully judged effort from the edge of the area.

From the resultant re-start, Jay Rendell almost doubled the score when he pounced on a defensive error. The bar and goal posts were friends for Central Ajax, with Knowle hitting them a number of times during this match. With sharper shooting, and fewer heroics from custodian Sean Wilson, The Robins could have, indeed, should have, been further ahead at half time. As it was, they had to be satisfied with the single goal advantage.

The second half was little different, with Knowle in total control, even when without the ball. As we neared the end, Knowle stretched their lead, first courtesy of Jay Rendell, who benefited from good work by George Seeley. Then Nathan Corry helped himself to number three. Finally, a deliriously happy Liam O’Donnell made it four.

To their credit, Central Ajax at no time, gave up. Even when just playing for pride, they gave their all. But the result was never really in doubt.

This was a comprehensive victory for The Robins. Afterwards Joint Manager Matthew Seeley was purring. He made the point that even single player representing Knowle Football Club had done their job extremely well. He was so proud of every one of them. Making the point that Knowle go with a larger squad this term, he said he was looking forward to the cup competitions.

Knowle : Johnson; Staley; Riddiford; L Clarke (Manning); Shaw; Bennett (Sinton); Bourn [30] (Corry [79]); O’Donnell [83]; Rendell [64] (Burston Keeley); G Seeley (Mullen); Craine. Sin Bin: 33 O’Donnell: Yellow Card 51 G Seeley.

Robins Flourish in the Heat!

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 22:56:34 GMT

9th September 2023: Inkberrow 0-4 Knowle

Ronald Crane reports from Sands Road

With a temperature of 30 degrees at kick-off, this match was played at a surprising fast pace. Ben Jones and Jack Mullen were unavailable, and Joe Riddiford joined new signing Adam Bourn on the bench. Owain Taylor, Reece Staley and Toby Scott all started.

Right from the start, The Robins’ took control. They found their left flank especially productive. After a couple of abortive efforts, a great cross by Toby Scott from the left fell to Dylon Bennett who drilled home the opening goal. Two minutes later, the exact same attack fell to Jay Rendell to double the score. The home side were visibly set back by this double blow. With Knowle in total control in every department, and playing an attractive brand of football with neat passing through mid-field, the home side had little opportunity to bounce back.

The only surprise was that we reached the break with the score still only two – nil in Knowle’s favour.

The second period was different, but with Knowle still in total control. They were content to allow the home side to have the ball in the knowledge that they would get nowhere near Craig Johnson in the Robins’ goal. And so it proved, until twenty three minutes from full-time when Inkberrow were awarded a free-kick just outside Knowle’s Penalty Area and in a central position. Johnson had no difficulty in saving the weak shot however. It was to be the only shot he had to deal with all afternoon.

Jay Rendell grabbed his second when he pounced upon a loose ball on the edge of Inkberrow’s Area, and to rub salt into Inkberrow’s wound or put icing on Knowle’s cake, George Manning hit a magnificent shot from eighteen yards that beat Jack Turner between the Inkberrow sticks all ends up.

It was three points that sent Knowle into 2 ^nd spot in the Midland Football League Division Two table.

Knowle: Johnson; Taylor; Staley; Clarke; Shaw; Bennett [13]; Scott (Manning90+4]); ); O’Donnell (Riddiford ); Rendell [15 & 65]; Seeley (Corry); Craine (Bourn). Sub not used: Jacob Walton. Yellow Card: O’Donnell.

Ladies Lose Out in the Last Minute

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 22:50:10 GMT

3rd September 2023: Shrewsbury Town 3-2 Knowle Ladies

Knowle started this match in fine fashion, seemingly catching their opponents off guard with their energy and effort. Within thirty seconds, Natalie Gibson’s ball forward put Demi Rolph in behind, but the keeper blocked well. Last season’s golden boot winner wasn’t going to be denied much longer though; she picked up where she had left off in 22/23 with a goal after just two minutes. Nadia Bacciochi and Jess Barlow combined well to play Rolph in, and this time she beat the keeper easily.

Shrewsbury continued with their possession based game plan, but much of their play was in front of the Knowle back line and not threatening Katy Smirthwaite in goal. Knowle were close to doubling their lead when Gibson played in Bacciochi, but the home side’s keeper was quick off her line to smother the 1v1. Shrewsbury also had an opportunity 1v1 soon after, and this time it was Smirthwaite with the block for her team. Shrews then struck the bar with a free kick, and it felt like an equaliser was coming as they tested the Knowle defence with a number of searching crosses. Knowle’s main threat was on the counter, and Morgan Betteridge was inches away from tapping in Rolph’s cross on the back post after a lightning attack.

The sweltering heat was taking its toll, and the referee allowed a drinks break on 25 minutes as the thermometer at pitch side hit thirty degrees. Knowle took the opportunity to send on Sarai McDonald for her senior team debut, replacing Bacciochi. The sixteen year old was straight in the action, stealing the ball from a defender and charging through into the box, but the full back covered well. It was then Shrewsbury’s turn to put together a period of pressure, but the team in red defended their penalty area well, restricting their opponents to long range attempts. The centre forward crashed one such attempt off the bar with Smirthwaite no chance of making a save.

It was actually Knowle who extended their lead with another counter attack two minutes before half time. Bacciochi held the ball up well before setting the ball back to Kate Fleming. Her first time ball over the top was collected with a superb touch from McDonald, who skipped away from the chasing defenders and slotted her finish under the keeper – cuing exuberant celebrations from her teammates who were thrilled for the youngster.

Shrewsbury had clearly received a rocket at half time and came out a different side. They changed formation and in truth, seized control of the game. They had pulled one back within seven minutes, when the left winger outpaced the Knowle defenders and squared for her striker to tap home.

Knowle were under the cosh now, and the home side hit the woodwork twice more in quick succession, once from a looping cross and then from a far more purposeful shot from just outside the box. Knowle rotated their subs in an attempt to give players some relief from the energy sapping heat, but tired legs began to show as Shrewsbury made the Robins chase the ball.

The equaliser came on eighty minutes; Knowle lost the ball in a dangerous position in midfield and the long ball was collected well by the striker who shot through the legs of Smith and past Smirthwaite from the edge of the penalty area. Smirthwaite then pulled off a fine save to deny the team in blue. Knowle just about had the energy to create one more chance, but the Shrewsbury keeper was equal to it, punching a dangerous Gibson cross from under her crossbar.

Ninety three minute on the clock and it was heartbreak for Knowle; the Shrewsbury right winger still with the energy to race past two Knowle players and then bury a shot across Smirthwaite to give her side a late 3-2 lead. The final whistle came soon after, leaving Knowle empty handed in their first game at this level.

Tired legs paid the price in the end, but the Robins can be pleased with their performance, particularly in the first half where they got on top of their more well-established opponents and proved they have the quality to compete at this level. Next week’s home game against Crusaders presents a chance to convert effort and performance into three points.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Smallwood (Morris, 65), Smith, Fleming, Betteridge, Holland (Phelps, 30), Gibson, Barlow, Rolph, Bacciochi (McDonald, 25).

Seeley Brace Enough for Robins

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 22:05:26 GMT

2nd September 2023: Knowle 2-1 Hampton FC

It took the Robins ten minutes to get going on this hot Saturday afternoon against near neighbours Hampton. When they did, there was only ever going to be one winner. In an admittedly average first half, George Seeley scored two goals that would prove to be enough to secure all three points.

As the first-half wore on, one sensed a deal of frustration creeping into both sides. They both felt decisions were becoming increasingly incorrect. To concentrate on the positive, Captain Seeley’s two goals were of high quality. First the impressive Dylon Bennett fed his Captain who made no mistake at all. Secondly a perfect cross from the right by Tom Craine was headed home to double the score.

At half time, thoughts turned to the chances the Robins had squandered. Would they prove costly? Yet the visitors had only managed to trouble Craig Johnson between Knowle’s sticks on one occasion, and that a long-range effort.

As it turned out, when the second half began, we had already seen all the football. The second period was devoid of attractive action. Knowle were content to allow their visitors to have the ball and defend deep and in numbers. Hampton’s goal was uncharacteristic as far as Knowle were concerned. A cross from the left allowed Sievwright to tap home at the far post. The cross should have been cut out, and the far post defended. However, Hampton were unable to capitalise on the goal, for it was to be their only shot on target in the second forty-five minutes.

Frustration on the pitch was mounting, Hampton’s Alex Conndine was shown a straight red, presumably for something he said. They clock showed 89 minutes. With the Assistant flagging for off-side, the Referee awarded a free kick to Hampton on the edge of Knowle’s Area. We had the unedifying scene of players pushing and jostling with each other as the frustration that had been rising all match, boiled over. Yellows and another red (for Hampton) followed.

Thankfully the final whistle went soon after. As the players left the field Conndine, who had been shown a straight red, appeared run on to the pitch and strike Craig Johnson on the back of his head as he made for the dressing room. More pushing and jostling followed.

It was an embarrassing end to a not very stimulating match. The end result was a 2-1 win for the Robins. The card count was – Knowle: Clarke, G Seeley, and Johnson and for Hampton four or five yellows, and two reds I think!

The large crowd donated £224 toward Hampton’s fund to re-build their destroyed club house and dressing rooms. At least some good came of the afternoon.

Knowle: Johnson; Jones; Riddiford (Staley); L Clarke; Shaw; Bennett (Scott); Craine; O’Donnell; Rendell; G Seeley [23 & 28]; Mullen (Taylor). Subs not used: Manning & Robinson.

Knowle Make Hard Work of Victory

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 17:22:58 GMT

28th August 2023 - Knowle 1-0 Cadbury Athletic

This is very different Cadbury Athletic side from the one that graced the MFL Division Two last season. With both sides having played two days ago on Saturday, there were some tired legs on show. Nevertheless, the Robins’ forwards especially, ran themselves into the ground.

Whether tiredness was the cause or not, the match we witnessed, was not the greatest spectacle. For the most part it was a mid-field battle. Athletic, without a point so far this term, shored up their defence, and concentrated on keeping the Robins at bay. Although the home side were on top for all of eighty minutes, opportunities in front of goal were in short supply. When the chance presented itself, it was squandered.

As far as the visitors were concerned, only Harry Stone, and Rene Adigbo can have satisfaction in their performances. For the rest, it was mediocre fare.

Despite their dominance, the Knowle goal was a farce. A real mix-up between goalkeeper Oliver and his defence, allowed Tom Craine to bemuse and beat the Goalie to the ball. Having pounced, he was never going to be denied. It proved to be the only goal of the match. Scant reward for the Robins’ eight shots on target, although Athletic could only manage three and those were all in the final ten minutes when they sensed the Robins tired legs.

When all is said and done, it is three valuable points for the Robins and takes them up to fifth place in the Division Two table.

Afterwards, Clive Seeley the Robins’ Joint Manager was pleased with the result and performance, given the obvious tiredness of his players. He picked out Guy Clark for special mention as Man of the Match. Few will argue with that assessment.

On Saturday 2 ^nd September, The Robins welcome near neighbours, Hampton FC, to The Robins’ Nest. Hampton have started the season really well, and seemed to have put together a good squad of players. As Clive Seeley said, “It is another tough match!”

Knowle FC: Johnson; Jones; Riddiford, L Clarke; G Clark; Bennett; Taylor (Campton); O’Donnell; Craine [38]; G Seeley ©; Mullen. Subs not used: Sinton & Manning. Yellow Cards: G Seeley; Riddiford; and O’Donnell.

Defence of the Challenge Cup Title Begins

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 13:54:39 GMT

26th August 2023 - Men's First Team 2-0 Leamington Hibernian

Dave Sykes reports from Hampton Road

As holders of the Les James Challenge Cup, Knowle were clearly not in the mood to relinquish their trophy to Jim Barry’s Men from Leamington. Jim is in his early 80s and actually founded the Hibernian club about 50 years ago. His whole family have been involved over the years and many of them were there to give the team some support.

Knowle were well under strength because of injuries and holidays but it gave the management team a chance to give youngsters more experience. Joe Riddiford started his first game for the club at left back and impressed us all with his pace and accuracy of passing. Mike Palmer also proved an able deputy but the two real surprises were George Seeley starting as a centre back and Callum Burston-Keeley coming on for a 12 minute cameo at the end of the match. Callum had an ACL just over 12 months ago so all last season he couldn’t play. He ran the line, acted as ball boy, was a more than capable physio and frustrated supporter. Everyone was delighted to see him come on to play. They were even more delighted when his first touch gave an assist to Mike Palmer when he scored our second goal.

Even with a depleted side Knowle took control right from the start. Dylan Bennett and Mike Palmer won their battles in the midfield and our two wing backs Joe Sinton and Joe Riddiford powered forward. The chances came and went. Double figures after about 15 minutes! Tom Craine was clearly disappointed as he narrowly missed probably 4 chances himself but made no mistake when he scored from the penalty spot. Soon after, a piledriver nearly doubled our lead; Bennett has a bit of a reputation for power shooting so we all knew what was coming but the ball just skimmed the cross bar. Their young keeper then came into his own! Making save after save leaving Owain Taylor and Tom Craine scratching their heads in disbelief!

The second half saw Jack Mullen take over where Tom Craine left off. Shots just wide or comfortably saved became the order of the day. But then things turned! A Hibs counter attack and the ball was in the net! Fortunately the lino’s flag was up. We breathed again. Jonno didn’t have time for that as he pulled off a stunning save with 15 to go. Knowle needed another goal and it came with a skilful bit of play from sub Callum. He lobbed the ball over the centre half, Mike Palmer ran onto it and headed it over the keeper!. Seconds to go! Penalty for Leamington. Surely a consolation for them but Jonno in goal did what he does best! Keep a clean sheet!

Discipline in Short Supply at Hampton

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 12:48:48 GMT

19th August 2023 - Knowle 2-2 Birmingham United

This match was a bad tempered affair, not helped by the failure of the Referee to show up. Five minutes prior to Kick Off, his Assistant Mr Kennett took charge, with one line being run by club linesmen.

United were first out of the blocks, and The Robins were really unlucky when Liam O’Donnell inadvertently allowed the ball to rebound into the net after hitting his body. As it turned out it was the goal that denied The Robins the three points they deserved.

It took the home side a few minutes to recover from conceding, but when they did, they took control of the game. For the rest of the match in terms of possession and territory, The Robins were well on top. United are a decent side, who know all about the dark arts of the game.

With the half hour mark looming, Jack Rendell beat the off-side trap to level the scores. For the rest of the first forty-five minutes the crowd were waiting for the Robins to move ahead, but we drank our cups of tea with the scores still level.

The second period was not a good advert for Midland League Football. Both sides were frustrated, consequently discipline was in short supply.

With half an hour to go, Jack Mullen was on hand to complete a wonderful Robins’ attacking move with two shots in the Area blocked, before he found the net to put the Robins in front. And that, dear reader ought to have been that. But the Robins’ defence, so strong, so secure, allowed the lively Sesay to pounce on a speculative long ball. He pulled United level, and so it stayed.

For the Robins it is two points dropped. But the scenes after the final whistle, embarrassed both sides. This was not a pleasant afternoon of football at all, and the match has left a nasty taste in one’s mouth.

Knowle FC: Jeavons; Shaw; Staley; L Clark; Jones; Bennett; Corry (Craine); O’Donnell (Palmer); Rendell [28] (Mullen [63]); G Seeley (Riddiford); Taylor. Sub Not used: Manning. Yellow Cards: Mullen, Palmer, Taylor.

Knowle Forwards Destroy Lane Head

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 12:41:31 GMT

12th August 2023 - Lane Head 0-3 Knowle

Dave Sykes report from Bloxwich Town

Our longest away trip. M42 shut. Traffic was consequently heavy. It rained in torrents on the M6 so the journey took twice as long as usual! Not the best start to the match. But it was well worth it. We saw a really enjoyable game of football between two sets of players, managers and fans who had nothing but respect for each other.

You got the feeling today that the team were enjoying playing and were definitely blending. Our three strikers must have loved playing in that formation. After three minutes Dylan Bennett and George Seeley pressed together and won the ball back. George threaded Nathan Corry into space with an intricate piece of skill. Nathan gave the outstanding Jay Rendell a sumptuous ball to chase. Down to the by line he went, out pacing the defender and over came the ball for Owain Taylor to smash it in at the far post. Exquisite!

Lane Head couldn’t live with the pace of our forwards. Jay and Nathan in particular were on fire as they created four chances at least that Nathan and Owain very nearly scored from. The fifth chance Nathan bundled over the line to put us two up after 21 minutes. With our regular keeper ‘Jonno’ on holiday, we brought in Ryan Byfield from a Sunday league team. He entertained us all with a vintage display that we all enjoyed. Thanks Ryan. Back to our top class performance. Ben Jones and Lewis Clarke are working extremely well together in central defence so it was no surprise that the team kept a clean sheet. Just before half time Jay was through again and as he weaved his way to the by line Owain knew exactly where to head for. Over came the cross from Jay and Owain had an almost replica goal to celebrate.

The second half saw an amazing save from their keeper. Skipper George hit a free kick left footed at pace right into the angle of the goal. The finger tips flicked the ball over the bar spectacularly. George couldn’t believe it! The confidence flowed through the Knowle players but the chances were spurned. Matt and Clive are excellent managers and true to their word, they gave opportunities to give experience to a few of the talented youngsters who had made the trip over. It was also nice to see Jack Mullen get a run out in the side as the Robins went after more goals.

After that unfortunate first game of the season against Alcester, the Robins are definitely back on track as the singing in the changing rooms after the game signified.

Onwards and upwards Robins!

Robins Bounce Back

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 12:34:18 GMT

9th August 2023 - Knowle 4-0 Coventrians

Ronald Crane reports from the Draintech Community Ground.

Following the abject defeat at the hands of Alcester Town last Saturday, The Robins bounced back in style against Division new boys Coventrians at Hampton Road.

Coventrians gave a spirited performance. They have some good players, yet lacked cohesion and played as a group of individuals rather than a team. Also the pace, physicality and know-how of Division Two left them short. Yet, they started brightly enough and forced the first save. None the less, it was The Robins who were on top for the majority of the match.

It took the visitors twenty minutes to find their feet, and when they did, it was The Robins who upped their game. Just after the half-hour mark, a Knowle corner was fiercely headed home by Ben Jones. Two minutes later, Jones turned provider and fed Jay Rendell to double the score.

The second half was a totally different game. The Robins were content to allow their visitors to have the ball, safe in the knowledge that their defence would cope with whatever Coventrians threw at them. The visitors had plenty of possession and spent much time in the home half of the park, yet could not manage a single shot on target in the whole second forty-five minutes.

As we entered the final third of the match Jay Rendell doubled his personal tally from eighteen yards, and sixteen minutes from time, George Seeley added a fourth. Coventrians were a defeated team, yet one feels they will improve and hold their own in the Division.

Knowle FC: Jeavons; Rainey (Manning); Taylor; Jones [36]; Guy Clark; Bennett (Campton); Corry (Gibson); O’Donnell; Rendell [38 & 67]; G Seeley [74]; Deards (Mullen). Sub Not used: Sinton.

Cup Heartbreak For Knowle Ladies

Thu, 25 May 2023 14:42:17 GMT

21st May 2023 - Coventry Sphinx 3-1 Knowle LFC

It wasn’t to be for Knowle Ladies who put in a superb performance but still came out on the losing side in the League Cup final, succumbing 3-1 to Coventry Sphinx. The big moments in the game simply did not go Knowle’s way and the league champions were clinical enough to punish them severely for the few mistakes they did make.

The Robins tired a new system out with various players in different roles, and for the first ten minutes of the game, they focused on keeping things tight and working out the Sphinx game plan. The team in sky blue therefore held 90% of the possession in this period, yet without really hurting Knowle. Their first chance came from a corner but the attacker headed wide of the post. Once Knowle settled into their roles, they came into the game with a roar. The midfield set traps and leapt on any negative pass to win possession; Bex Clarke kept Sphinx’s creative midfielder quiet and Jess Holland was quick to stop the speedy winger finding any space. Kate Fleming in particular was all over her opponent and her industry allowed Demi Rolph to run at goal; she played a neat one two with Natalie Gibson but neither forward could get a clean shot off and Sphinx blocked the final attempt well.

Knowle then forced a series of corners, from one of which Maz Byrne won the header but the defender on the post outjumped all the bodies crowding the line to clear. At the other end of the pitch, last defender Morgan Betteridge reacted sharply to a loose ball and blocked the striker’s shot, slowing her down long enough to allow Byrne to clear. The Knowle defence held an excellent line, catching the opposition forwards offside whenever a through ball was played in.

Rolph again went close when she hit the side netting from a Gibson long throw, then Emma Shaw’s dangerous free kick was tipped wide by the keeper. Fleming nearly opened the scoring with a header from Betteridge’s cross, but the keeper did just about enough the scramble it away. It looked as though the game was heading for a 0-0 scoreline at half time, but in the 46 ^th minute, Sphinx won a corner after a deep ball into the box wasn’t cleared. Gibson headed the initial cross away but the corner taker picked up the loose ball and threw a speculative high ball back towards goal. Unfortunately for Knowle, keeper Katy Smirthwaite could only palm it backwards and with two players from each side throwing themselves at the ball on the line, it ended up in the back of the net. Knowle were devastated to concede against the run of play, but had no time to hit back and went in 1-0 down.

Another sucker punch came immediately after the second half began. Good interplay by Sphinx beat the Knowle press which was half a second too slow, and the forward raced onto the through ball to slide a finish past Smirthwaite. With a mountain to climb, Knowle kept working hard but Sphinx had the momentum now and were savvy enough to slow the game down whenever Knowle threatened. Set pieces were still a major threat for Knowle and Sam Smith really should have pulled one back for the Robins, but she connected poorly with Shaw’s corner and the header skimmed wide of the post.

Soon after, Knowle won a free kick in a glorious position when Fleming was pole-axed. Gibson’s shot hit the wall and ricocheted out to the full back who took advantage of the red shirts being caught in the penalty box and was able to advance deep into Knowle territory. It looked as though Knowle had done enough to stop her when Smith got a foot in to tackle her, but Betteridge’s clearance thumped into the full back’s shins and bounced remarkably kindly through towards the Knowle box. She made the most of the gift with a good finish past Smirthwaite. Knowle had no choice but to go again and they pulled one back quickly. A superb through ball by Camile Abbotts saw Rolph take a heavy touch, but Gibson followed up to shoot and the defender blocked it with her hand. Knowle were asking for a penalty, but they were given a free kick on the 18 yard line – no matter, Rolph put it in the net anyway with the aid of a deflection.

It was all Knowle from there on in on the attacking front, throwing caution to the wind. Substitutes Nadia Bacciochi and Alana White both put in incredible performances off the bench, with White beating the full back at will. One such mazy run saw her beat several blue shirts before being tripped around the penalty spot as she went to shoot; the referee waved advantage as the ball dropped to Bacciochi but Coventry’s keeper pulled off a stunning save to deny her, then the resulting scramble saw the ball hit the post and get cleared. Sphinx did get an opportunity to extend their lead; Gibson tripped the forward in the box but the penalty was blazed over the bar and indeed the stand. In the last ten minutes, Knowle kept trying to force another goal; Byrne went close with a difficult header and Betteridge hit a long ranger that needed saving, but they just couldn’t get the reward they needed.

3-1 the final score, and Coventry Sphinx’s name on the cup – but a performance to be proud of from every Knowle player involved. The disappointment will linger; but this team stick together and will aim to go one better next year.

Double Cup Glory for Knowle!

Thu, 25 May 2023 14:34:59 GMT

20th May 2023 - Sutton United-1 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Ray Hall Lane

This Final of the Saturday Vase was always going to be a case of the immovable object meeting the irresistible force. United had the highest ‘goals for’ in the Division, whilst the Robins had the meanest defence.

Before the match had even started the talk was of a Penalty Shoot-Out. The game itself subsequently turned out not to be a great advert for football. The large crowd witnessed what seemed to be at times, a pre-season training game. United forced the pace in the first half, but without really bothering the Robin’s defence. Knowle should have been one up inside three minutes, and the a goalmouth scramble saved them at the other end. If United took a direct approach to the match, The Robins chose a more measured game-plan with O’Neil-Martin playing a role deep in midfield.

The second half was a different matter. The Robins were dominant and took the game to their opponents. But for profligacy in front of goal, they would have been comfortably in the lead. Chance after chance fell to Nathan Corry in the game, but a combination of good goalkeeping, bad luck and poor aim stopped him scoring on the day. As it was the clock ticked down to the close and the inevitable penalty shoot out. Then Referee James awarded The Robins a penalty, hotly disputed by United. Truth to tell Sutton had been fortunate not to concede at least one, if not two, penalties earlier.

Whatever the case, Kartel O’Neil-Martin took the ball and waited as the Referee was in prolonged discussion with the defending side. Delaying tactics? Maybe. But the coolest head in the whole stadium calmly put the ball into the net and the Robins had won their second cup in a fortnight.

So ends a memorable season for The Robins. Two cup victories, and promotion was arguably deserved. But it was not to be.

Knowle: Johnson, Rainey, Clarke, McArdle, Seymour, Morris (Blythe (Walton), Bennett, O'Neil-Martin, Staley, Corry (Sinton), Mullen.

Subs unused: Jones, Ricketts.

Ladies Lose Out at LI

Thu, 18 May 2023 16:48:13 GMT

14th May 2023 - Long Itchington 3-2 Knowle LFC

Knowle Ladies suffered only their third defeat of the league season last weekend after a flat performance away at Long Itchington.

The home side showed their determination from the start and were sharper than the Robins all across the pitch; first to every loose ball and getting in behind with quick counter attacks. In fact they had the ball in the net after just five minutes, but the referee had spotted the centre forward had charged down Sam Smith’s attempted clearance with her hand and ruled out the effort. Knowle were unable to force a genuine attack of their own as they kept losing possession, putting themselves back under pressure. From one such error, Long Itchington were awarded a corner, and miscommunication at the front post allowed the centre forward to force the ball over the line to give them a one nil lead. Two minutes later they had doubled their lead; Knowle lost possession on the left side, a quick cross set up the striker and Morgan Betteridge tripped her on the way through. A definite penalty and the Long Itchington player duly smashed it home.

Two down after fifteen minutes, Knowle knew they had to respond and so made early changes to formation and personnel, with Emma Shaw, Camile Abbotts and Kate Fleming coming on. Fleming and Bex Clarke were able to seize back the midfield, but Knowle still struggled to retain possession well enough to create good chances. They saw plenty of the ball in the second half of that first period however and eventually started to threaten. Nadia Bacciochi combined well with Natalie Gibson to wriggle past a defender, but her shot on the turn didn’t quite have the power to beat the keeper. Two good chances then fell to Demi Rolph, but she could not find a finish. Half time saw Knowle 2-0 behind with a lot to do in the second half.

The Robins were better in that second period, but Long Itchington had something to hold onto and defended resolutely. Good football between Bacciochi and Jess Barlow set up Abbotts for their first chance, but the keeper again pulled off the save. Knowle were finding space out wide and it was clear that’s where they could find some joy. Indeed, their first goal came from that; Smith found Shaw on the left and she crossed for Rolph to stab home. Soon after they came close to equalising; Shaw’s free kick was turned onto the post by Fleming.

Knowle looked like they were on the edge of getting back into the game, but it was Long Itchington who actually went further ahead. Knowle were caught too far up the pitch and a long ball took their right side out the game. The winger raced through and crossed well for her striker to beat Smirthwaite to the ball and score the home side’s third. Knowle dusted themselves off and tried again, but their final ball wasn’t quite right and the Long Itchington defence were alert and aggressive in clearing their attacks. Set pieces were a threat though, and they should have scored when Smith headed Shaw’s corner against the bar. The home side also came close with another cross from their left side but Clarke saved Knowle with a fine defensive header. Knowle pulled one back again with ten minute left; Barlow played in Rolph and this time she kept her cool to slot the team’s 100 ^th goal of the season home. Despite their best efforts however, Knowle could not find an equaliser in the last stages of the game and Long Itchington ran out deserved 3-2 winners.

The Ladies will need to improve significantly next week when they face their biggest game of the season; the League Cup Final against Coventry Sphinx, 1pm kick off at Evesham United.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Smallwood (Shaw, 22), Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Clarke, Morris (Fleming, 22), Abbotts (Barlow, 22), Bacciochi (Phelps, 50), Rolph, White (Gibson, 30)

Les James Cup Winners!

Thu, 18 May 2023 16:41:43 GMT

9th May 2023 - Hampton FC 1-3 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from The Bescot Stadium

The Bescot Stadium was resplendent in the springtime evening sunshine for this cup final between two teams, close rivals, but also good friends. The game was played in a wonderful spirit throughout and was, in the time-honoured phrase, a game of two halves.

Right from kick-off, The Robins took the match to their opponents. Patient build up, not wasting possession, yet always seeking that opening, they controlled the game. Hampton were content to allow The Robins to play their passing game until it reached the final third, then they attempted to thwart. It worked to a point, but was never going to earn them a victory.

On the half-hour mark, one of many Rainey crosses from the right found Jack Mullen, whose trap, turn and shot opened the scoring to tremendous cheers from the – mainly young – Knowle supporters.

The goal woke up Hampton and they immediately swarmed forward and pressed The Robins much higher up the park. In six minutes they were level after The Robins had escaped a few hairy moments in their own area. An uncharacteristic mix-up in The Robins’ backline left Knowle scrambling and resulted in Matt Garbett scoring a simple tap-in to level the scores.

The match was far more even after these goals, and The Robins’ back four had to produce some last-ditch tackles. But for most of the game those four supreme defenders at Midland League level reigned. Three minutes prior to the break, Nathan Corry latched on to a through ball to re-take the lead with ease.

The second half was almost a mirror image of the first, with Hampton controlling things without really creating much in front of Craig Johnson. As we neared the end, the match became really frenetic and players snatched at chances instead of keeping calm. Deep into time added on a wonderful through pass by Jack Mullen was pounded on by Charlie Morris who made it three for The Robins. The re-start only lead to the final whistle, and The Robins had triumphed to joyous scenes of celebration.

To their eternal credit, the Hampton players and bench were generous in their applause for the winners. It is the first trophy for The Robins since winning the Presidents Cup in 2014, so it was a very happy coach journey back to Hampton Road, and celebrations went on well into the early hours!

Their next game is Saturday 20th May 2023: Saturday Vase Final at Ray Hall Lane, home of Birmingham FA, Kick off is at 1400

Knowle: Johnson, Seymour, McArdle, L. Clarke, Rainey, Bennett, Seeley, O'Neil-Martin, Ricketts, Mullen, Corry. Subs: Morris, Jones, Staley, G Clark.

Photos courtesy Button Oak Photography

Final League Game Sees Knowle Finish Third

Mon, 08 May 2023 21:10:22 GMT

6th May 2023 - Knowle FC 1-1 AFC Coventry Rangers

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground.

This important match, upon which much depended, was not a great advert for the Midland Football League. The result was eagerly awaited. If Rangers won, they would win the Divisional Championship. If The Robins won, they would share top spot with Sutton United, although United would be champions on goal difference. A draw would hand the title to United.

The Robins’ largest crowd of the season gathered for the event.

Rangers went ahead on two minutes when Swain tapped home a rebound after really slack defending by The Robins. This knocked the home side back, and they took a while to get going. For thirty minutes it was all Rangers. They were on the attack, yet failed to produce another first-half shot on target. Passing around mid-field was never going to produce another goal, and the Robins’ back line were magnificent for the rest of the match.

The final fifteen minutes of the opening period were all The Robins. Rangers were pushed back. Jack Ricketts hit the bar with a real pile-driver from distance. Yet Knowle found it hard to get behind Rangers back line.

With a minute of added time prior to the break played, George Seeley let fly a special, that whizzed into the bottom corner of the net. It was no more than the home side deserved.

The second half was very different. The Robins’ were on top throughout, Rangers being reduced to the long ball over the top. It was never going to trouble Messers Clarke and McArdle, and it didn’t.

As the second half progressed, the always volatile crowd, became vocally aggressive. A section of the crowd were shouting vile abuse at the Officials, and at the Robins’ players. It was deplorable and communicated itself to the players and bad behaviour on the pitch and between the benches grew worse. Ex Robin, Callum Regan, was shown a red card for an off the ball incident with Lewis Rainey. More cards followed.

As the match neared its close, all this became even worse eventually boiling over into the inevitable melee of players, substitutes, and back-room staff.

George Seeley was shown a yellow card, and Rangers received another red and more yellows. When we got going there was another incident in the Rangers’ Area that resulted in George Seeley receiving a second yellow and the subsequent red.

At the end it was all square and the title falls to Sutton United, one might say by default. When the dust had settled, the Robins’ players and managers will rue missed passes, and shots. One from six yards and another with an open goal. The Robins’ were well worth three points, it is a disappointment that they could only manage one. However, the ill-discipline on show was deplorable.

Tuesday 9th May 2023: Les James Challenge Cup Final at the Bescot Stadium Kick Off 1930. Adults £7 Concession £4

Knowle FC v Hampton FC

Saturday 20th May 2023: Saturday Vase Final at Ray Hall Lane, home of Birmingham FA,

Knowle FC v Sutton United

Photos courtesy of The Mowdog, Peter Ray.

Kartel Treble Keeps Knowle in Contention

Tue, 02 May 2023 15:19:28 GMT

1st May 2023 - Lane Head 0-4 Knowle FC

Dave Sykes reports from Bloxwich

As we reach the sharp send of the season, Knowle faced a tricky away fixture over in Bloxwich. The strong wind blew in the same direction of the slope of the pitch which had a profound affect on the opening ten minutes. Lane Head’s keeper nearly scored with a punt but Craig Johnson was equal to the threat! The next few goal kicks allowed the defence to position themselves but this direct approach showed everyone how good the Robins defence is. Gradually Knowle started to dominate.

Dylan Bennett anchored the midfield and did all the covering and unglamorous stuff. Meanwhile the more attack minded players started to enjoy themselves. The impressive Ben Jones proved what a threat he was in dead ball situations but his controlled headed effort just cleared the bar. Next up George Seeley held his head in his hands after his well placed header was clawed away by the keeper. Seeley again had a good chance as he weaved his way along the goal line but the defence crowded him out before he could shoot.

A goal had to come and it did so shortly after Nathan Corry hit a pile driver that just shaded the top of the bar. Great effort! It was a terrific goal to be fair as Kartel O’Neil-Martin was well and truly in the mood. He controlled the cross beautifully just inside the area, dummied right, turned left and hit an unstoppable shot into the corner. His personal supporters club of about 15 were in their element. Knowle were in full flow now as O’Neil-Martin threaded a delightful ball through to the talented Taylor Blythe who drew the keeper and rolled it wide of his left hand. Knowle supporters didn’t want the show to end but sadly the ref blew up for half time.

After a cup of tea, the entertainment restarted with a mad scramble in the Lane Head goal. At least four attackers tried but failed to breech the desperate defenders. It wasn’t long before O’Neil-Martin showed his talent and composure again. Jones had been moved effectively into midfield as Joe Sinton was injured. Jones measured his pass to O’Neil-Martin perfectly and he made no mistake in front of his now delirious supporters as he lobbed the ball over the keeper and Knowle were three up! The linking play between Knowle’s attackers and midfield was of the highest order. Next up was Lewis Clarke, who had a fine game in defence, came up for a corner. As the move broke down the ball came out to Lewis who neatly beat his man and cannoned a shot against the bar. Quite breath taking! Other chances were created and missed until O’Neil-Martin scored his deserved third goal and hat trick. The ball was played through by the hard working Corry and it became a race between O’Neil-Martin and their keeper. It was brave, it was exciting and it was Knowle’s 4th goal!

Knowle’s season will be decided in the next four matches with three trophies all within their grasp. Good luck to Matt, Clive and the lads who have worked so hard for nine months.

Shaw and Byrne Combine to Down Leamington

Tue, 02 May 2023 14:59:58 GMT

30th April 2023 - Leamington Lions 1-4 Knowle LFC

With Leamington’s usual ground unavailable at the weekend, Knowle Ladies travelled to Southam to take on their Division One opponents and came away with a comfortable 1-4 win.

Both sides took some time to get used to the conditions – a sandy pitch and gusting wind made it difficult to anticipate the bounce and flight of the ball so the opening minutes were scrappy at best. Knowle eventually settled however, and started to use wide areas to good effect. They won a free kick in a dangerous area when Jess Barlow was felled on the edge of the area, however the wall blocked Bex Clarke’s effort. Soon after, Barlow combined well with Jess Holland to play Alana White in, but Leamington keeper Angela Wiffin made a superb save to her left side to push White’s effort round the post. From the resulting corner, captain Maz Byrne rose highest to head home Emma Shaw’s dangerous delivery to give her side the lead.

Knowle doubled that lead almost immediately. They worked the ball well through midfield, Kate Fleming found Demi Rolph on the wide left and she cut inside to cross to White. The forward kept her composure and produced a fine finish, lofting the bouncing ball over the advancing keeper Wiffin. Leamington were not out of the game however, using their right wing to good effect with Ava Barnes and Kiran Sangha finding space. Shaw dealt with the threat well however, ably backed up by Sam Smith. The home side did eventually get their reward and pulled a goal back, though Knowle played a big part in their own downfall. They attempted to play short from a goal kick but scuffed the second ball straight at the feet of Sangha on the edge of the box. The number nine made the most of the opportunity with a quick first touch and an excellent finish low into the bottom right corner to poise the game at 2-1.

Knowle kept their heads and hit back; another free kick gave Shaw another opportunity to cause chaos. Her cross was met by Byrne again; the header went straight in the top corner and rattled off the stanchion before popping out, but Byrne saved any doubts by poking the rebound in as well. The Robins fourth goal was credited to Rolph, who had now switched over to the right hand side. She tied Turner in knots before trying a low cross and Lucy Cooke unfortunately turned the ball into her own net.

There was still plenty of time in the half for Knowle to keep threatening; Nadia Bacciochi weaved her way through the Leamington defence twice to set up chances that her teammates couldn’t quite convert. Camile Abbotts added guile to the midfield and she played a neat one-two with Ebony Harris but her cross was scrambled away by Sophie Jordan. Knowle had to settle for their 4-1 lead at halftime.

In total contrast to that exciting first half, the second period was something of a none event. Neither side truly threatened, and the ball spent a lot of time in midfield with little to report. Bacciochi led the line well for Knowle and much of what they did create came through her turning and running at the Leamington backline. One such occasion led to Natalie Gibson shooting just over the bar which was the closest Knowle came to extending their lead. Fleming also had her attempt blocked by Ella Astheimer when it looked as though it may have been creeping inside the post. At the other end, Katy Smirthwaite stuck out an arm to divert a good effort from the Leamington forward, but the Knowle defence snuffed out most of their other attacks.

The game finished 1-4 then, with a bit of an end of season feel about that second half from both camps. Knowle will certainly be looking to shake that off ahead of their final three games this term.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw (Smallwood), Smith, Byrne, Betteridge (Harris), Clarke, Barlow (Gibson), Fleming (Abbotts), Rolph, Holland (Bacciochi), White.

Photos courtesy of Tim Nunan

Knowle Get the Job Done Against Alvis

Tue, 02 May 2023 14:42:04 GMT

29th April 2023 - Knowle FC 2-0 Coventry Alvis

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground.

Twelve minutes from the end of this match, with The Robins well in control and strolling to victory, a freak accident caused Jacob Walton to receive a nasty gash on the back of his head. He was taken to hospital, but allowed home after having the wound glued up. This is a relief to all concerned as, at the time, the injury looked more serious.

Before the game, Knowle knew the size of their task in the coming weeks. Four games to play, and four wins will see them crowned Champions. They were therefore well up for putting this game to bed early. The afternoon began with Knowle taking the match in their stride, however after ten minutes, Alvis had their best spell. This came to an and when Jack Mullen benefited from good work by George Seeley to put The Robins ahead.

Just before the break, Nathan Corry doubled the lead. A cross from the right was headed back across the area, and even a desperate defensive kick could not stop the goal, the ball already having crossed the line.

The second half was one-way traffic. That the Robins did not score more is thanks to heroic efforts by Alvis’ Goalkeeper Alfie Pyott who pulled off a series of top class saves. For the rest, it was a case of Knowle would not, and Alvis could not, although to their credit, they never gave up and continued to try and get forward.

The Robins are in action again on the May Day Bank Holiday Monday 1st May 2023 when they travel to Lane Head for a MFL Division Two match. Lane Head may be in a relegation battle, but Stowe Street in Walsall is never an easy place to go and play football. Kick Off is at 1500.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Rainey (Jones); Seymour; L Clarke; McArdle; Bennett; Corry [41]; Byrne; Mullen [24] (Blythe); G Seeley (Walton - Ricketts); O’Neil-Martin. Sub not used: Mico.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Mon 1sy May; Lane Head – AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Sat 6th May; Coventry Rangers – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Tue 9th May; Les James Challenge Cup Final at Walsall FC

Sat 20th May; Saturday Vase Final at Ray Hall Lane

Honours Even in Big League Clash with Cadbury

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 15:44:36 GMT

26th April 2023 - Knowle FC 1-1 Cadbury Athletic

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground.

Another match in April, another midweek early kick off - this was never going to be a classic. As it turned out it was all rather frenetic, with loads of mistakes.

The Robins began well enough and took the lead through a good header by George Seeley. But as time wore on Cadbury came into the game, and although the home defence held firm until the half hour mark, the visitors did even the score when Brooks turned home a cross.

The home defence continued to be under pressure, and conceded a penalty, only for Craig Johnson to save brilliantly.

After the break, matters became even more frenetic, if that were possible. The game was really end to end in cup tie fashion, but without end product. The Robins ought to have taken the lead early in the second-half when Corry sent over a peach of a cross from the right, it found Mullen in the six yard box, but as he went to tap home, a vicious bobble sent the ball over the bar.

For the rest of the match, neither ‘keeper had a really difficult save to make, although, Johnson did punch clear on a couple of occasions and McCardle made a fine block late on. At the end, a draw was a fair result, neither side deserved to lose. Athletic are, as Clive Seeley had said prior to the game, a really good side. The Robins backline did very well to keep the scores even.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Rainey; Seymour; L Clarke; McArdle; Bennett; Eminoglu; Mullen, Corry (Walton); G Seeley (Jones); O’Neil-Martin( Ricketts). Subs not used: Sinton & Bailey.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Sat 29th April; Coventry Alvis – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Mon 1sy May; Lane Head – AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Sat 6th May; Coventry Rangers – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Tue 9th May; Les James Challenge Cup Final at Walsall FC

Photos courtesy of The Mowdog, Peter Ray.

White Inspires Knowle to Comfortable Win

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 13:26:01 GMT

23rd April 2023 - Knowle LFC 8-1 Long Itchington

Knowle Ladies took their time to get going on Sunday, but once they found their shooting boots they were lethal and racked up a big 8-1 win against Long Itchington.

The home side were in complete control of the game throughout and in the early stages they did everything bar putting the ball in the back of the net. Long Itchington defended stoutly and with numbers, particularly in central areas but Knowle were still able to create plenty of chances. Unfortunately, they were wasteful in that first 30minutes, with several players shooting off target from promising positions.

Substitutes Nadia Bacciochi , Natalie Gibson and Camile Abbotts added extra creativity and increased the pressure on the away side, and Knowle’s patience eventually go them the breakthrough they deserved. Emma Shaw teed up Demi Rolph and although the Long Itchington keeper saved her shot, Alana White was on hand to mop up and place the loose ball into the net. That opened the floodgates for Knowle. Soon after they were two goals to the good; Abi Morris showed composure to play they ball forward under pressure and two passes later, White was cutting the ball back for Gibson to slam it home.

Despite the fact that Knowle could have been several more goals ahead, Long Itchington did have their moment in that first half; a defensive error allowed Humera Ashfaq through on goal, but she shot straight into the grateful arms of Katy Smirthwaite.

Although the two nil score line wasn’t a true reflection of Knowle’s dominance in the first half, the second period proved to be far more fruitful. White bagged her second of the game early on when she finished off Gibson’s through ball. The young forward was the best player on the park by a long way, and was thoroughly enjoying herself down the right side. She linked up with Kate Fleming before chasing down a seemingly lost cause in the corner and crossing for Rolph to volley in Knowle’s fourth from close range.

The Robins had the advantage of a full bench compared to Long Itchington’s bare eleven, and the extra legs and superior fitness was beginning to take a significant toll on the resolute away side. Gibson scored her second directly from a free kick before Bacciochi and Rolph also both went close to scoring, as the ball seemed stuck in the Long Itchington half. The latter made no mistake on her next opportunity though; Gibson rolled her in behind and she fired past the keeper. The gaffer then picked up her hat-trick with a superb finish; Camile Abbotts created space and slipped it square just outside the box and Gibson lobbed the keeper with her effort.

There was still time in the game for Knowle to make it eight; Abbotts steering a ball across to Jess Barlow who met it well in front of the keeper and dinked it into the net. The only blot on Knowle’s copybook came with the last kick of the game; the defenders did not deal with a free kick lofted towards the back post and Ashfaq snuck in to poke past Smirthwaite for a consolation goal to Long Itchington; 8-1 the final score.

Plenty of bright spots for Knowle to be pleased with despite that late lapse however; creating chances from all over the park and using the space well. Big performances from a number of players won’t go unnoticed as the squad prepare for the last few games of the season and the cup final.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Smallwood, Smith, Byrne, Shaw, Clarke (Fleming, 30), Barlow (Gibson, 30), Holland (Abbotts, 30), Betteridge (Morris (30), Rolph (Bacciochi, 30), White.

Knowle's Winning Run Ends

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 13:00:27 GMT

22nd April 2023 - Knowle FC 0-1 Kenilworth Sporting

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground.

After the build up for this match, indeed of the fixtures for Saturday where six of the top seven clubs in Division Two played each other, this encounter was a deep disappointment. At times the match descended into farce. Time and again both sides were unable to string passes together. Any neutral finding themselves inside the Draintech Community Stadium last Saturday would be hard pushed to believe that the sides on display were two of the best in the division.

Perhaps there was just too much at stake. Maybe too many games have had to be played in a short time. Whatever the reason, this was not a good advert for the Midland Football League. True: there was a great deal of striving, but little real skill, or attractive football.

How different from the matches those of us who support The Robins, have witnessed in recent weeks. The only goal of the game was itself error strewn. The Robins were in action in the Sporting Area. Appeals for a penalty were turned down. The play quickly moved into the Robins’ territory for Low to score.

If the first-half had been more, or less, dominated by the Robins. It was the sending off of Kyle Jaynes two minutes into the second-half, that sparked the visitors to up their game. Playing for all but two minuets of the second period with ten men, turned out to be in Sporting’s favour. In the end, they won because they wanted it just that bit more than the Robins.

The long winning run may have ended for Then Robins, but the divisional championship is still in their own hands. Knowle can do it. Three of their five remaining matches are at home. They can make up the points difference.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Bennett (Hague); Seymour; L Clarke; McArdle; Staley; Blythe (Morris); Mullen; Corry (Walton); G Seeley ©; O’Neil-Martin. Subs not used: Sinton & M Seeley.

Wed 26th April; Cadbury Athletic – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1830

Sat 29th April; Coventry Alvis – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Mon 1sy May; Lane Head – AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Sat 6th May; Coventry Rangers – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Robins Edge It At Bolehall

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 11:16:08 GMT

18th April 2023 - Bolehall Swifts 1-2 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Rene Road.

This was an absorbing match to watch. Two sides prepared to play football in the face of a high wind. Physical, well organized, skilful, yet with too many mistakes to make it a classic.

After the opening exchanges, it became apparent that Knowle were controlling the game, with Swifts content to play on the break. Although The Robins had by far the greater share of possession and territory, Swifts were always dangerous on the break. It was on one such break that had Craig Johnson in the Knowle goal beaten by an Adam’s shot from twelve yards. By then both sides had hit the bar.

If that makes the match sound a real end to end thriller, it was not like that at all. The Robins were in control. But without any end product until captain George Seeley took a Free Kick some nineteen yards out and in a central position. He defeated Doyle in goal for Swifts all ends up, to equal the score.

Whatever the Seeleys –Clive and Matthew – said at half-time more than did the trick. For the second period The Robins were in total ascendancy, the only disappointment was that they managed just one more goal, a twenty-yard pile driver from Kartel O’Neil-Martin.

Instead of just seeing the game out, the Robins continued to seek that third goal. It could have cost them dear.

For their part Swifts gave a good account of themselves. Well organised with a solid defence, they made matters hard for Knowle. However, in the end the boys from Hampton Road were just too savvy.

Knowle’s winning run continues. On Saturday, they entertain Kenilworth Sporting at The Draintech Community Ground. Kick off is at 3pm.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Jones (Blythe); Seymour; L Clarke; McArdle; Bennett (Ricketts); Morris (Corry); Staley; Mullen; G Seeley [33]; O’Neil-Martin [74]. Subs not used: Walton & Gasiewski.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Sat 22nd April; Kenilworth Sporting – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Wed 26th April; Cadbury Athletic – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1830

Sat 29th April; Coventry Alvis – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Mon 1st May; Lane Head – AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Holland Sends Knowle To The Final!

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 11:00:18 GMT

16th April 2023 - Knowle LFC 3-0 Walsall WFC

Hampton Road was rocking on Sunday afternoon with a big crowd turning out to see Knowle Ladies face Walsall WFC in the semi-finals of the League Cup. The Ladies duly delivered a performance to be proud of, in a 3-0 win full of quality and heart.

Knowle’s matchday mascots were the U10 Dragons and they roared the team on straight from the first whistle. Knowle responded with two early chances; Kate Fleming shot wide of the post and Natalie Gibson’s free kick was well saved by Walsall keeper Liv Wells – a sign of things to come throughout the ninety minutes.

The Robins were able to get forward on numerous occasions in that first half but were perhaps guilty of rushing their attempts on goal. Jess Barlow’s quick feet helped her set up Demi Rolph but her shot skipped past the post and Wells claimed Maz Byrne’s header strongly. Wells also then tipped Bex Clarke’s long range effort onto the bar, when it looked certain to drop into the net. Walsall hit back by creating two chances of their own; Aaliyah Shearer found Jasmin Springer in the area and her shot hit the bar; the linesman flag did confirm the offside however. Soon after, Byrne and Morgan Betteridge collided in their eagerness to clear a cross, leaving Saanya Najib clear through but she fired high and wide – a let off for Knowle.

The Robins back at the other end. Barlow squared a ball to Camile Abbotts but she couldn’t mark her 18th birthday celebrations with a goal as her shot was off target. Nadia Bacciochi had added additional guile to the Knowle frontline and she combined well with Fleming to create space for the shot, but Wells was equal to it once more. The goalkeeper also held Fleming’s next attempt, when perhaps the better option would have been to play Barlow in as she was in acres of space. Defensively, Sam Smith had to be on her toes to make the tackle on Shearer as she skipped into the penalty area, and Emma Shaw was positioned well to mop up the danger. Just before half time, Betteridge sent a deep cross into the area after Gibson had spread the play wide; Rolph knocked it down for Bacciochi whose shot scraped the left hand post. Nil nil and all to play for after forty-five minutes.

Knowle knew they had to find another gear, and they managed that with aplomb. If the first half had been end to end, the second absolutely belonged to Knowle. They broke the deadlock within five minutes of the restart. Betteridge and Jess Holland worked the ball well out wide to give the latter space to cross. Abi Turner headed clear, but Fleming picked up the pieces and teed up Holland who was able to fire her shot over Wells and into the goal from a narrow angle.

Three minutes later, the home side had doubled their lead. Rolph collected the ball from Betteridge’s throw and burst between two defenders before clipping a left foot finish into the net. Knowle were now fully in the ascendency, and attacked with pace confidence. Celina Smallwood found Abbotts on the edge of box, she sent Rolph scampering down the left but her cross was hacked away from the goalmouth by the Walsall defence. Alana White then cut inside to tee up Gibson; her shot seemed destined to sneak inside the post but Wells was at full stretch to save again.

It was going to take something special to leave the Walsall keeper helpless, and Holland duly delivered. White and Rolph recycled the ball from out of the corner and into Abbotts, she found Gibson who had space to chip a pass into box. With her back to goal, Holland sprinted to meet it, took one touch with her right then span and volleyed the ball into the far corner with her left. A superb goal and with Knowle now three goals to the good, their lead looked solid. Walsall struggled to break out of their own half and mount any serious attacks, resulting to long balls that Smith could head clear or Katy Smirthwaite could advance off her line to mop up. Their best opportunity fell to Maicie Golding after good work down the left from Najib, she was about to pull the trigger when Smith slid in with a thumping tackle to stop the shot and preserve Knowle’s clean sheet.

Knowle had the chance to extend their lead when Rolph raced through onto Clarke’s pass and was felled by Wells, but the keeper made a good save to hold onto the penalty and atone for the foul. She was also quick off her line to stop White in her tracks, and cling to Rolph’s effort late on. Soon after, the referee called time to send Knowle through and cue celebrations on the pitch and in the stand. A superb second half from the Robins left them well worth the win – they will play Coventry Sphinx in the final on 21st May!

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw (Smallwood, 55), Smith, Byrne, Betteridge (Harris, 70), Clarke (Abbotts, 30), Fleming, Gibson, Rolph, Holland (Bacciochi, 30), Barlow (White, 55).

Knowle Hit Sweet Sixteen

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 16:24:46 GMT

10th April 2023 - Boldmere Sports & Social 1-5 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Boldmere Road

Wind, sun, rain, and even hail were the accompaniments for this mismatch. Already relegated Boldmere gave a spirited performance, but it was never going to secure the points. Knowle reached sixteen wins in a row with this 1-5 win. Had their opponents scored when the Robins were just one to the good, things might have been closer, but as it was the ball was blasted over the bar from six yards.

The Robins were one up courtesy of Joe Sinton who took advantage of panic in the Boldmere defence after a Knowle corner to stab the ball home. Following Boldmere’s miss, Staley and O’Neil-Martin extended the Robin’s lead. Staley drove down the left-wing and sent over a shot/cross that caught in the wind and deceived Richards in the Boldmere goal. All he could do was palm the ball home. O’Neil-Martin on the other hand, beat the defender and scored from an acute angle with a thunderous effort.

The teams changed ends with the Robins leading three nil. The home side improved after the break and Jay Rendall made no mistake from twelve yards to score. He and his teammates were delighted with the goal, but it was never going to herald a home revival.

Although Boldmere had more of the game in the second-half, The Robins were not really troubled. Late on Knowle were awarded a penalty from which O’Neil-Martin made it four, and Jack Ricketts hit a pile-driver from eighteen yards to make it five.

As the players left the field, hard and stinging hail descended from the heavens. It was not a vintage performance by The Robins, but it did secure three points and take them back to second place in the table, five points adrift of Sutton United, but with three matches in hand. The race to the close of the season, is tight, and exciting.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Sinton [67] (Bailey); Jones (Meeks); Lewis Clarke ©; Mullen (Corry); Guy Clark; Morris; Ricketts [87]; Walton (Blythe); Staley [36]; O’Neil-Martin [44 & 82p]. Sub not used: McArdle.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Sat 15th April; Alcester Town – AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Tue 18th April; Bolehall Swifts – AWAY – MFL D2 KO 1820

Sat 22nd April; Kenilworth Sporting – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Wed 26th April; Cadbury Athletic – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1830

Sat 29th April; Coventry Alvis – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1500

KLFC Back On Song With Big Win

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 16:07:45 GMT

9th April 2023 Knowle LFC 7-0 Droitwich Spa

Easter Sunday was a cracker for Knowle Ladies, who beat Droitwich Spa 7-0 at a sunny Robin’s Nest. Manager Natalie Gibson had a full squad available so was able to rotate the players round to ensure good game time and all sixteen responded well with a superb team performance.

Knowle started strongly, pressing high up the pitch to win possession and then using the width of their wingbacks to good effect to create attacks. Chances came early - Ebony Harris was inches away from connecting with a Morgan Betteridge cross then Demi Rolph teed up Jess Holland but the Droitwich defender blocked well. The away side’s main threat came from utilising the speed of their lone forward down the right side and she did well to break into the box but Maz Byrne covered smartly and the resulting corner led to nothing. Soon after, Rolph hit the post for Knowle after good work from Jess Barlow, then desperate defending from Droitwich stopped Holland once again and Bex Clarke’s follow up flew wide.

On the half hour mark, Knowle rang the changes with all five subs coming on and they made an immediate impact. Clarke sprayed the ball out wide to Betteridge, she drove forward and found Rolph, and her cross was perfectly placed for Nadia Bacciochi to nod home at the back post for her first Knowle goal. Within sixty seconds, it was two nil. Rolph nipped in to cut off a poor back pass, rounded the keeper and rolled the ball into the net. To Droitwich’s credit, they followed that disappointment by nearly pulling one back – a long ball over the top sent the striker clear but Katy Smirthwaite was quick off her line and blocked her shot allowing Abi Morris to clear. Knowle continued to pile forward despite that scare and with the extra back up from Kate Fleming coming on, Clarke was now running the show in midfield. She set Rolph free out wide and her cut back was met by Holland but the shot was well saved. From the resulting Emma Shaw corner, Sam Smith’s header was blocked on the post and Smith looped the rebound over the bar.

A third goal was coming however, and when it arrived it was a fabulous team move. Smith mopped up another long ball by playing back to Smithwaite, the keeper took a touch and gave it back to the centre half. Smith found Gibson in midfield, and she sent Betteridge flying down the right side. Rolph had a bite at her cross but Droitwich scrambled it clear – only as far as Gibson who casually half volleyed it in off the post from the edge of the box.

There was no let up for Droitwich in the second half as the home side kept the tempo high despite another round of five subs. Knowle scored their fourth two minutes after the break; Lucy Jones put the full back under severe pressure and won the ball back. She squared it across goal and although the pass was just out the reach of Bacciochi, Fleming raced in and finished from close range. Bacciochi then had a goal chalked off for offside and the Droitwich keeper saved Gibson’s free kick.

A long ball again set up Droitwich’s best effort of the half, but Smirthwaite blocked once more to keep the clean sheet intact. Excellent cover by Celina Smallwood also stopped their forward in her tracks twice with two fine tackles that were vitally important. Knowle extended their lead to five with fifteen minute still to play; Clarke found a through ball to Shaw who played short to Rolph and her square ball was confidently finished by Barlow. Rolph then picked up her second of the game; player of the match Clarke was instrumental again in the build-up. She combined with Betteridge then slid in Rolph to cut back around the defender and shoot low past the keeper.

The seventh goal was one that would make even the already extensive personal highlight reel of Gibson; she received a pass from Rolph twenty five yards out and rocketed it into the top corner, leaving the keeper no chance. There was just time in the match for one more chance; Clarke teed up Rolph with a lovely chipped ball but the forward hit her shot wide.

Knowle were more than happy to settle for seven though, and more importantly the performance was back to their usual high standard. They will be looking to extend that to next week when a big game awaits; a League Cup semi final against Walsall WFC, 2pm kick off at Knowle FC.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Smallwood (Morris, 30), Smith, Byrne, Harris (Shaw, 30), Betteridge, Clarke, Jones (Gibson, 30), Barlow (Fleming, 30), Rolph, Holland (Bacciochi, 30).

O'Neil-Martin Secures The Points Against Fairfield

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 16:01:41 GMT

8th April 2023 - Fairfield Villa 1-2 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from The Recreation Ground

The Robins were without captain George Seeley, Lewis Clarke & Hayden Seymour, plus Dylon Bennett who broke down during the warm-up and although Nathan Corry was sitting on the bench, it was known he was unlikely to get onto the park. To go into such an important match with five first-choice players absent is usually a worry. However, the Seeleys have put together a squad at Hampton Road, that has real depth.

Those players who took the field for this match were far more than capable deputies. They all proved their worth with this win. That is not to say the match was easy, nor without its problems for the men in red and black.

The Robins began well enough, and fifteen minutes into the match Kartel O’Neil-Martin opened the scoring with a goal similar to the one he scored against Inkberrow, with the difference that he had more to do. He needed to beat his man and the ‘keeper on this occasion, a feat he managed with aplomb.

For the rest of the first period, all went well for The Robins. It seemed just a matter of time before the second goal would come. It was not to be. Ten minutes after the break, an unfortunate mis-kick allowed Villa’s Alex Knight to pounce and score.

This gave the home side just the fillip they needed, and for the rest of the match Knowle needed all their skill, tact, and guile to secure the win. To make matters more complicated, the match became ‘testy’ to use a polite word. Discipline deteriorated, and matters came to a head when Villa’s Nikinder Uppal was sent for an early bath.

Ten minutes prior to this, O’Neil-Martin had put The Robins in-front from the penalty spot after a hand-ball decision against the home side. Jack Mullen had a goal disallowed for some reason. Villa then had six minutes to play with ten men. They did their very best to get the equaliser. However, this Robins side does not cave in so easily. They held out to take all three points.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Rainey (Blythe); Jennings; G. Clark; McCardle; Sinton; Morris (Walton); Ricketts; Mullen; Staley; O’Neil-Martin. Subs not used: Bennett, Corry, & Gasiewski.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Mon 10th April; Boldmere S & S F – AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Sat 15th April; Alcester Town – AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Tue 18th April; Bolehall Swifts – AWAY – MFL D2 KO 1820

Sat 22nd April; Kenilworth Sporting – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Robins into Another Final on Penalties

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 15:51:33 GMT

5th April 2023 - Knowle FC 1-1 Cadbury Athletic (4-2 on pen)

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground

For the third cup tie running, and the second semi-final, The Robins go through via penalties. This time they secured their spot in the Les James Challenge Cup Final which will be held at Bescot Stadium, Walsall on Tuesday 9th May against Hampton FC.

That this semi final match could go ahead at all is down to the hard work of the backroom staff at Knowle FC. Many thought that the rain would have taken its toll of the game, but not so. The pitch was soft, but perfectly playable.

Before a large crowd (211), Knowle set the standard from the first whistle. For thirty minutes they controlled the game without ever troubling Oliver between the Athletic sticks. When the visitors did manage to get forward they met the wall that is the Robins’ defence with Craig Johnson making a couple of top notch saves. In contrast, Knowle could not manage a single attempt on goal despite their dominance.

As we approached the half-time break, Athletic came into the game and provided the Knowle defence with some searching questions. Yet at the break the score remained nil-all.

The second-half was a totally different matter. Both sides upped their tempo and Knowle were far better, at last looking as if they could score. Ten minutes into the second-half it happened. A peach of a pass through the middle by Jack Ricketts was timed to fall right into Kartel O’Neil-Martin’s path. He beat the off-side trap with aplomb, and raced into the Area to score with ease.

Now Athletic showed their mettle, forcing a series of corners. Despite this, the home side seemed that they could see out the game. Seven minutes from the end of normal time a cross from their right was bundled home by Kedeiah Warren-Paul. There was a crowd of players in the six-yard box all trying to connect with the ball, somehow it ended in the net.

The set back did not deter Knowle who went about trying to restore their lead. Corners and attacks all proved fruitless, and in the gloom of the evening approaching eight o’clock, we went to Penalties. Held at the Training Ground End, Sinton, Jones Corry and Walton (who had come on to the field as a sub about twenty seconds before the Referee blew for time!) all found the net. For Athletic, Hands and McGinn scored, but Dinanga and Cooper had their efforts saved by Craig Johnson. It was all over, and Knowle are on their way to the Bescot Stadium. In three penalty shoot-outs Johnson has distinguished himself with timely saves.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Rainey; Jennings (Jones); Byrne; MaCardle; Bennett (Sinton); O;Neil-Martin; Ricketts; Mullen (Walton); G Seeley (Morris); Corry. Sub not used: Burston-Kelley.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Sat 8th April; Fairfield Villa – AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Mon 10th April; Boldmere S & S F – AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Sat 15th April; Alcester Town – AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Tue 18th April; Bolehall Swifts – AWAY – MFL D2 KO 1820

Sat 22nd April; Kenilworth Sporting – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Ladies Scrape Three Points

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 19:29:07 GMT

2nd April 2023 Knowle LFC 1-0 Leamington Lions

Sunday’s game will not be one that lives long in the memory at Knowle LFC; indeed it was potentially the poorest match supporters have seen all season. Neither side were able to create much in front of goal but, despite their subdued performance, the Robins were able to nick a 1-0 win courtesy of Demi Rolph’s penalty. Knowle welcomed back Lily Phelps from injury, and she was joined as substitute by Julia Zimmerman, Sarah Moore and Lucy Jones who had all kindly agreed to come back into the squad to give the team options from the bench.

Play was confined to midfield for much of the early stages of the game, with both sides struggling to keep possession. A corner each was the closest they came to threatening goal inside the first twenty minutes, but both came to nothing. It was Leamington with the first shot of the match, but Poppy Johnston-Smith’s attempt sailed well wide. Good work by Jess Barlow and Morgan Betteridge then gave Natalie Gibson some space just inside the penalty are but she also shot wide, when perhaps the square ball to Ebony Harris would have been the better option.

The introduction of Sarah Moore up front gave Knowle more presence and she teed up Rolph soon after coming on, but the forward hit the bar with her powerful shot. The best chance of the half fell to Leamington; good work from Ava Barnes saw her beat the full back and float a cross in to Kiran Sangha, but she poked her effort wide of the post from close range with no Knowle marker in sight. Lucy Jones had added plenty of energy to the Knowle midfield, and Moore was able to set her up to strike too, but the shot flew over the crossbar.

No score at half time then, and it was expected that Knowle would find another gear in the second period, but in truth it was even less productive. Leamington had more of the ball for the first 15minutes but were unable to muster a shot at goal thanks to strong defending by the Knowle backline. Another round of substitutions did briefly spark Knowle into life and they had a good spell, but Angela Wiffin in the Leamington dealt well with crosses from Betteridge and Camile Abbotts.

The pivotal moment came halfway through the second period; Barlow worked the ball well to Bex Clarke storming forward on the right, she made her way into the box to strike at goal but the ball cannoned off Linda Riches' raised arm and the referee pointed to the spot. There was some delay to the penalty as Riches was sinbinned for her protests and Barnes very nearly followed, but Rolph kept her cool to slot it home and give her side the lead.

Even with ten players for ten minutes, Leamington fought hard to get back on level terms but the pattern of the game did not change – no clear cut chances for either side. The away side’s best moment was a deep cross that flew all the way across goal but on every other occasion they made their way into Knowle’s penalty area, a Knowle defender was able to be first to the ball and clear.

Just the one goal was enough to separate the sides at the final whistle then; for the visitors, a disappointing way to lose a game that had nil nil written all over it, and for Knowle a bonus three points. The two sides face each other again at the end of April and we expect another close game! Knowle are at home again on Sunday 9th April for the visit of Droitwich Spa FC.

Knowle: Smithwaite, Smallwood, Smith, Byrne, Harris (Zimmerman, 30), Clarke (Jones, 30), Gibson (Moore, 30), Abbotts (Phelps, 30), Betteridge, Rolph, Barlow.

The Defence Wins It For Knowle

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 14:35:44 GMT

1st April 2023 - Knowle FC 1-0 Inkberrow

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground

Inkberrow are one of the most attractive sides to watch in MFL Division; well run with a good backroom staff, they are a good footballing side. This match was intriguing, one could not take one’s eye off the action. Not because it was end to end, it was not; but because both sides were intent in playing football on a surface that is best described as “poor”.

The Robins were first out of the starting gate, with a through ball from George Seeley to Jack Mullen who fed Nathan Corry as the unfortunate Max Court in goal, and the Inkberrow defence in general, made a real mess of things. Corry took full advantage and tapped the ball home. He even had time to follow his effort and make sure of the goal as it did seem that the ball would not make the line. He made sure it did, and The Robins were one to the good with two minutes on the clock.

For the rest of the first forty-five minutes it was all Inkberrow. They held mid-field with the impressive Callum Davies and Ellis Vaux very much in charge. Knowle found it hard to get forward as Inkberrow controlled the match. Yet the visitors could only manage three shots worth the name, one of which hit the post.

As far as The Robins were concerned, at the back, Jones, Lewis, McArdle and Seymour in front of ‘Keeper Johnson were really solid. The defence held firm and showed just why The Robins have only conceded two goals in their last six league games.

Knowle made two changes at half-time. Nathan Corry and Joe Sinton gave way to Jacob Walton and Jack Ricketts. The alteration changed the match. Knowle were a different side. They controlled things from then until the finish, yet to Inkberrow’s credit, the home side could not extend the lead. The substitutions injected some energy into The Robins performance. This brought the best from Kartel O’Neil-Martin who was excellent. Yet he, and Jacob Walton, were both guilty of being caught in possession too many times.

These three points were earned the hard way. The Robins had to dig deep to secure them. That they did, is all the more credit to the squad. The men on show were minus Morris, Rainey, and Bennett. Those who came in were more than up to the task. A mention for Ben Jones, singled out by Joint Manager Clive Seeley after the game for praise. He is Knowle’s most improved player.

The only blot was Referee Gudger’s liberal use of yellow cards; five for Knowle, three for Inkberrow. This win takes Knowle up to second place in the MFL Division Two table, eight points adrift of leaders Sutton United, with four games in hand.

On Wednesday 5th April, Knowle welcome Cadbury Athletic to the Draitech Community Ground for the Les James Challenge Cup Semi Final, Kick Off at 1800. Then come four away League games.

Knowle FC:

Johnson; Jones, Hayden, L Clarke, McArdle, Sinton (Ricketts); O’Neil-Martin; Staley; Mullen; Seeley ©; Corry (Walton). Subs not used: M Bailey; M Seeley; Burston-Keeley.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

WED 5th April 2023: Knowle v Cadbury Athletic : Les James Cup Semi-Final: KO 1800

SAT 8th April 2023: Fairfield Villa v Knowle AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

MON 10th April 2023: Boldmere S & S F AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

SAT 15th April 2023: Alcester Town – AWAY – MFL D2 – KO1500

Rolph On Fire As Ladies Beat S&G

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 12:44:29 GMT

26th March 2023 - Sedgley & Gornal LFC 1-4 Knowle LFC

There was a delayed start at the Dell Stadium last Sunday due to some issues on the local roads, but when the match between Sedgley & Gornal and Knowle Ladies did eventually kick off, there was certainly no wait for action. Knowle were straight into an energetic press and they went ahead inside three minutes. Jess Barlow snapped at the heels of a Sedgley midfielder and stole possession before flicking a pass through to Demi Rolph. She drove into the box and her shot was too strong for the home side’s keeper.

Sedgley & Gornal hit back almost immediately however, Knowle gave away a soft corner and Beth Male’s in-swinger deceived Katy Smirthwaite in goal, she could only push it over the line. One all after just five minutes and it definitely seemed like more goals were to come. Knowle pushed forward again, with Barlow and Rolph causing chaos in the Sedgley backline with good combination play. They were ably supported by Kate Fleming and Camile Abbotts in centre midfield, the former winning everything and the latter creating opportunities with smart passing. Fleming set Rolph clear again but the keeper made a great save with her left foot, then Emma Shaw hit a free kick just over the bar after Barlow skipped past her defender and was taken out.

Sedgley couldn’t break through the Knowle backline to get a shot at goal, but they were extremely threatening from set pieces. Their second corner of the game also swung towards the goal; Sam Smith scrambled it away but the Sedgley forward headed the ball straight back and Knowle were thankful for Bex Clarke’s excellent positioning as she headed the attempt off the line. At the other end, Abbotts tried her luck with a speculative volley before the goalkeeper Nelia Severin came out bravely to claim a dangerous Morgan Betteridge cross just in front of Shaw. Knowle did go ahead before half time and it was a fine goal. Abi Morris and Maz Byrne combined to win possession and feed Barlow. Her through ball to Rolph was inch perfect; the forward took one touch and slotted her finish into the far corner of the net.

An exciting first half ended with Knowle 1-2 ahead, and the spectators were expecting more of the same in the second period. In truth however, the second half started slowly; the football was scrappy from both sides and the game became overly physical. Persistent fouls broke up play and resulted in multiple stoppages, so it took a while for the game to get going again. Knowle did have the better opportunities; Fleming’s shot was saved by Severin and Rolph struck an attempt just wide. At the other end, Sedgley were restricted to a couple of long-range shots that were easy for Smirthwaite to handle, though she was cynically barged into the net after collecting one. Soon after, Sedgley’s Grace Field was booked for another foul on Barlow but Shaw’s free kick again went over the bar.

The goal was coming for Knowle though, and eventually they had the breakthrough. Rolph drew the defenders in before slipping a square ball to White but Severin flew out of goal and tripped the forward. The referee pointed straight to the spot and Rolph buried the penalty to complete her hat-trick. The third goal knocked the stuffing out of the home side and the last fifteen minutes of the game was all Knowle. They played the ball about with confidence, and Sedgley were unable to create any attacks. Barlow and Fleming both saw attempts saved before Camile Abbotts put the gloss on the scoreline with a superb goal. White made the forward run and outpaced the S&G to collect Celina Smallwood’s pass but Severin was out quickly to block. The ball rebounded to 35 yards out where Abbotts ran on and, without breaking stride, fired it straight into the net.

A touch of real class to finish things off and leave Knowle with a 1-4 win. A high tempo performance from The Robins where their superior quality and fitness paid dividends in the second half to deliver a great result against a tough opponent. The Ladies are next in action on 2nd April, at home against Leamington Lions.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Smallwood (Harris, 25), Smith, Byrne, Shaw, Clarke, Abbotts (White, 25), Fleming, Betteridge (Morris, 25), Rolph, Barlow.

Mullen's Brace Sinks United

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 12:09:19 GMT

25th March 2023 - Knowle FC 2-0 Birmingham United

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground

Prior to this match kicking off, celebrations were in order for Craig Johnson who made his one hundredth appearance for the Robins. Afterwards it was celebrations for all the Robins, after securing their twelfth straight win.

As it turned out, Johnson will have had fewer easier matches in that century, as United could not manage a single shot on target...or even off, for that matter. The Robins were well below par, without George Seeley, Nathan Corry and Hayden Seymour who were all unavailable. Yet they were still far too good for a disappointing United side rooted near the bottom two of Division Two.

Outplayed and out-thought United may have been, but they never gave up and kept going right to the end. Somehow the Robins never really got going, but did not surrender mid-field to their opponents where Staley and Bennett ruled. Up front, Jack Mullen was well fed with long-range balls from McArdle and Sinton. Their accuracy played right into the forwards hands – or to be exact, feet. Knowle took the lead on five minutes when Mullen benefited from a poor back pass from the left, to round the keeper and give himself a simple tap-in. On the half-hour, a lovely long ball was met by the front runner, who beat his man and ‘keeper to double the score.

For the rest of the match, there is very little to say. The second half was a non-event ,with United unable to manage an attack, and Knowle content to hold what they had. Robin’s management team of Clive and Matthew Seeley will want far more from their charges when facing Inkberrow next Saturday.

After the match, Clive Seeley told me, “Disappointed in our performance, yet pleased with the result.”

That result leaves The Robins in third place in Division Two, some eleven points behind leaders Sutton United, but with five matches in hand. The Robins still have to welcome second placed Cadbury Athletic, and fourth placed AFC Coventry Rangers to Hampton Road, so there is everything to play for. The fight for honours in MFL Division Two is as tight as it can be.

Knowle FC:

Johnson; Sinton (Ricketts); Rainey; Clarke; McArdle ©; Bennett; Morris (Walton); Staley; Mullen [5 & 30]; Blythe (Bailey); O'Neil-Martin, (Jones). Sub not used: Burston-Keeley.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

SAT 1st April 2023: Knowle -v- Inkberrow - Home – MFL D2 – KO 1500

WED 5th April 2023: Knowle v Cadbury Athletic: Les James Cup Semi-Final: KO 1800

SAT 8th April 2023: Fairfield Villa v Knowle AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

MON 10th April 2023: Boldmere S & S F AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Knowle Into Final!

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 17:47:58 GMT

18th March 2023 - AFC Coventry Rangers 0-0 Knowle FC (3-4 on pens)

Ronald Crane reports from Mitchell Avenue

This match could never be described as a spectacle. It was a tough affair, that also turned testy on occasion. Played on a difficult pitch that never favoured keeping the ball on the deck, both teams struggled to make an impression. Consequently the defences were on top. In the first half mid-field was controlled, first by Knowle, then by Rangers. In the second half it was all Knowle, yet the home defence held firm.

Right from the off, the visitors made their intentions clear. Get forward and score. However, the home defenders had other ideas, and kept the Robins at bay. As the half dragged on, the home side came into the game and it was the Knowle defenders turn to withstand the attack.

In the second half, the away side had territory and possession, yet could not score. A golden chance fell to Jack Mullen, but somehow the ball stuck between his feet and the chance had gone. In the whole game, there were only four attempts on target, and only three off target. It was that kind of game.

As we went into the final third of the match, the tackles flew in, as both sides tried to up their game. Perhaps it was the pitch, maybe the players were not at full speed, but somehow the game never really took off. Bad tackles were punished with yellow cards, and the defenders took all the plaudits.

At full-time we went to the lottery of a penalty shoot-out. The Officials chose the road end for the action, and it was Rangers to go first. However, before we could get started, the crowd behind the visitors dug-out required some talking to by the Referee. From my seat it seemed that some of them had encroached on to the pitch, maybe I am wrong. However, the Referee had to go over and speak with the crowd. Eventually the penalties started. The delay did not help the home side’s first penalty taker.

Farrell was up first for Rangers. His shot skimmed the top of the bar and landed in the road. Joe Sinton made no mistake for the Robins. Rangers Goalkeeper, Hartopp, took their second and scored. Kartel hit the net for Knowle’s second, but not before Hartopp had kicked the ball from the Penalty spot. He was given a talking to by the Referee. Rangers third attempt from Curran was saved by Johnson, and Staley made it three for the Robins. Hyman scored for the home side, making it 2-3. Hartopp was then booked by the Referee for kicking the ball away yet again. He had already been warned and now he stood on the penalty spot to hamper the taker and Jack Mullen’s effort was duly saved. Turnbull made it three for Rangers, so it fell to Captain George Seeley to take Knowle’s fifth penalty. With Hartopp still patrolling the area, Seeley just waited with the ball under his arm. When the ‘Keeper had made his ground George Seely thumped the ball home and Knowle were in the final.

There was more action in the taking of the penalties than there had been in the previous ninety minutes. Once again the Robins had progressed via the lottery of penalties.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Rainey; Seymour; L Clarke; MaCardle; Bennett (Sinton); Morris (Kartel); Staley; Mullen; G Seeley; Corry (Blythe) Subs not used: Ricketts & Walton.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Sat 25th March; Birmingham United – HOME – MFL D2 - KO 1500

Sat 1st April; Inkberrow – HOME – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Tue 3rd April – Cadbury Athletic – HOME - Les James Cup Semi Final – KO 1800

Sat 8th April; Fairfield Villa – AWAY – MFL D2 – KO 1500

Knowle On Top Form Against Bewdley Town

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 16:46:26 GMT

12th March 2023 - Bewdley Town 2-6 Knowle LFC

After a week of wild weather, Knowle Ladies were pleased that Bewdley Town’s pitch had stood up well and the game was on. They made the most of the good fortune and thoroughly enjoyed themselves in a 2-6 win.

Knowle started the match strongly, with Jess Barlow and Alana White combining well to attack down the right side and get balls into the box. The forwards couldn’t quite capitalise however, and the Bewdley keeper marshalled her six yard box well. The Robins weren’t to be denied for too long though, and they went ahead with only eight minutes on the clock. Bex Clarke positioned herself well to pick up a loose ball and slip Kate Fleming into space so her fellow midfielder had time to look up and find a through ball to Demi Rolph. The number nine raced in and slotted her attempt under Bewdley’s keeper for a 0-1 lead.

Knowle’s second was a prime example of playing through the thirds; from their own goal kick, Sam Smith played forward to Clarke, she pivoted and passed into Gibson who did the exact same movement before sliding a great ball through to Rolph. She skipped round the keeper this time before placing a left footed shot into the net. Knowle were well on top now, and went close a couple more times. Gibson thundered a shot off the bar, Clarke hit a long range attempt with and Alana White was inches away from a tap in from Rolph’s square ball. White then had a hand in her team’s third goal; she wriggled out of a challenge on the edge of the box and flicked the ball to Gibson. The goalkeeper saved the gaffer’s shot, but Barlow showed superb determination to beat the defender to the rebound and slot home.

Bewdley were only able to make sporadic forays into Knowle territory in that first half, and were soon shut down by the Knowle back three of Smith, Maz Byrne and Celina Smallwood. Their best attempt was created by the skipper’s through ball, but Byrne had the striker covered and Smith was able to block when she turned back inside. At the other end, Knowle had their fourth goal before halftime; Gibson and Barlow combined with a one two, before Gibson chipped her pass into Fleming who had perfectly time her run into the box. She poked her finish under the keeper and put her side 0-4 up.

At halftime, Camile Abbotts and Abi Morris joined the fray and both were involved early on. Abbotts set up Rolph for a snapshot that the keeper pushed wide and Morris hit a free kick that caused issues in the Bewdley penalty area. Bewdley’s substitutes also made a difference however, and they were able to cause more problems in the Knowle defensive third. Katy Smirthwaite had to produce a smart one handed save to palm away one effort and then drop on the rebound, and another shot bounced wide. The Robins always looked likely to extend their lead however. Emma Shaw forced a good save from the keeper, then fancy footwork from White allowed Clarke to cross for Rolph, but she couldn’t connect with the header. Knowle’s fifth was a well worked goal; Byrne teed up White out wide and her back post cross was perfect for Abbotts to volley home.

Fellow substitute Morris switched position to right back and was soon busy; she won the ball on the halfway line and her clearance fell to Gibson. Her shot was blocked, so she dinked the rebound into Rolph who lofted it over the keeper and tapped in to complete her hat-trick. At 0-6, Knowle were in control, but it was actually Bewdley who finished the game stronger. They were awarded a penalty with twenty minutes left when a ricochet was adjudged to have hit Clarke’s arm, but Smithwaite pulled out a good save to her left side.

The home side wasn’t to be denied however, and pulled two goals back in the latter stages. Sarah Lojko found space in the penalty area to fire past Smirthwaite, and Kirsty Roberts outmuscled the Knowle defenders to score soon after. Bewdley also saw a good chance go begging when the striker’s shot flew wide after good build up play.

Knowle took the decision to shut up shop and see the game out, leaving the final score 2-6 in their favour. The football played in that first half in particular was superb, and the team will look to replicate that next week away against Long Itchington in another league fixture.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Smallwood, Smith, Byrne, Shaw, Fleming, Clarke, Barlow, Rolph (Abbotts, 45), Gibson (Morris, 45), White.

Photos (C) of Nick Goodwin, Sportspics

Ladies Through After Penalty Shoot Out

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 18:06:40 GMT

5th March 2023 - Knowle LFC 2-2 Shifnal Town (4-2 on pens)

The League Cup quarter final bought together two teams fighting it out at the top of their respective South & North Division One league tables, so it was no surprise it was a close game. It turned out penalties were the only way to separate Knowle Ladies and Shifnal Town after 90 minutes.

From the whistle, Knowle looked like they meant business. They poured forward and forced an early corner from which Maz Byrne couldn’t quite direct her header properly. Great link up play between Demi Rolph and Jess Holland created the next good chance; they teed up Natalie Gibson whose effort cannoned back off the crossbar. Nadia Bacciochi was following in, but the ball wouldn’t quite come down for her and Shifnal were able to clear. The midfield was competitive but Bex Clarke and Kate Fleming had the measure of their opponents in those early stages and were able to feed dangerous balls out. Indeed, Clarke nearly created a goal for Alana White with a long diagonal pass but the wide forward was crowded out by some good recovery defending from Verity Farrell.

Knowle did go ahead midway through the first period, Holland and White worked the ball well out wide before finding Gibson infield. She spotted the run of Rolph and slid an inch perfect ball through the backline, the quality of which was matched by Rolph as she slotted home her finish past Rebecca Williams in the Shifnal goal. The away side really should have equalised soon after however, a long ball through beat Knowle’s defence but Katy Smithwaite made herself big and flew off the line to block Becca Bown’s shot. They were left to rue that miss when Knowle extended the lead to two; Gibson corner was on the money and this time Byrne made no mistake, nodding it down into the far corner past Williams’ despairing dive.

At this point, the game opened up more and the two sides traded blows. Maria Bell was causing Knowle problems in the middle, and Shifnal were struggling to stop White being Knowle’s go to attacking ball. Bown struck another effort wide for Shifnal before Rolph had her shot saved by Williams. Just before half time, a long clearance from Shifnal flicked off both Sam Smith and Byrne at centre half for Knowle and allowed Jenna Boddison through on goal; she kept a cool head to beat Smirthwaite but her shot bounced back off the inside of the post and Holland mopped up the danger for Knowle. The Robins therefore went in at the break two to the good, but it was certainly game on.

Knowle made four changes at the break and started slowly. Early on, Bown broke through Knowle’s midfield, leaving Clarke with no choice but to earn herself a booking by bring her down. The free kick came to nothing, but Shifnal still drew first blood in the second half. Knowle lost the ball in a dangerous position, Bell spotted the backline were out of position and clipped a pass to Boddison running into the box. The forward blasted a superb volley past Smirthwaite to pull the score back to 2-1. Knowle tried to hit back as quickly as possible; Rolph turned on the burners and raced past Sian Bonner out wide before cutting in and forcing a good save from Williams.

Fifteen minutes in, there was a pivotal moment. Out wide on the right side, Holland skipped round Nicola Mason but the defender pulled her back; Holland reacted and that instigated a shoving match. The referee showed Mason a yellow, but it was red for Holland and Knowle were down to ten for the last thirty minutes. This turned the game into a fight rather than a football match; tackles were flying in, free kicks were been given all over the pitch and the yellow card was never far from the referee’s pocket. Boddison was booked for taking out Fleming on the halfway line, and Bown saw yellow for barging Smirthwaite into the net after she had caught the ball. Eventually one of the free kicks proved decisive and it was Shifnal who got the reward; Holly Bullock hitting a direct shot past Smirthwaite from twenty-five yards out to level the score at two all.

The Robins had to reset themselves as the game looked to be going away from then, and to their credit, they pulled together. As the half wore on, both sides had chances; for Knowle, Rolph’s free kick was blocked well and keeper Williams whipped the ball off Jess Barlow’s toes when Clarke had seemingly sent her through. At the other end, Fleming made a superb tackle to stop Bown and then the same forward shot wide with the goal at her mercy. Shifnal were taking full advantage of having the extra player and had the lion’s share of possession; Knowle had to employ some last ditch defending to keep them at bay. Long range efforts were off target, and when the away side did penetrate the Knowle box, defenders stepped in to clear well. With six minutes remaining, it became a ten v ten game when Bown was sin-binned for arguing with the referee, and it was Knowle that finished the stronger. Rolph shot over the bar and the Robins forced two corners, with Barlow hitting a fierce volley wide from the last one.

The final whistle blew soon after and so it was straight to penalties for a place in the semi-final. Gibson and Smith were on target before Shifnal’s second taker blazed over the bar to give Knowle the advantage. Bacciochi’s attempt was saved by Williams however and Shifnal’s third kick was a confident effort, all square at two each. Barlow fired home, then Smirthwaite saved Shifnal’s fourth, palming it up onto the bar. It was down to Rolph to score to put Knowle through and she duly delivered in style! 4-2 the final penalty tally, always a strange way to end a game, but Knowle showed their mettle to see it through after an eventful match.

Knowle: Smithwaite, Smallwood (Shaw, 45), Smith, Byrne, Holland, Clarke, Gibson (Abbotts, 45), Fleming, Rolph, Bacciochi (Barlow, 45) White (Betteridge, 45)

Men's First Team Squeak Through

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 17:26:34 GMT

4th March 2023 - Knowle FC 0-0 Kenilworth Sporting (5-3 on pens)

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground

As Cup Quarter Finals go, this was a disappointing affair. In the first half it was all Sporting on the attack, and all The Robins did was defend. In the second half, it was more or less the other way round. In both cases the defences were on top. To add to the disappointment there was a sadly low turnout of supporters for such an important match.

However, Sporting were well in charge in the first forty-five minutes and Knowle found it hard to get out of their own half, indeed their own area for some of the time. Nevertheless, they are meanest defence in the top three Divisions of the MFL, and so gave their opponents little chance. Mr Consistency Lewis Clarke was superb at the heart of the back line.

Up front it was a different story. The Robins could not manage a single shot on target they were in fact living off scraps. The second half was a complete reverse, The Robins doing all the attacking, and Sporting hemmed in without a meaningful attack, let alone shot.

The turning point of the game came on fifty-nine minutes when Joe Sinton entered the park. He wrestled the control of mid-field from the visitors, and calmly set about giving the Robins’ forwards chances on goal. Sam Delaney, an ex-Robin, now shone at the heart of the visitors’ defence. Even the departure for an early bath of Sporting Captain Rhys Lyons did not offer a chink in the pattern of play. The visitors were content to shut up shop, and the Robins were unable to pick the lock.

So we went to Penalties. Joe Sinton smashed home Knowle’s first. Tyrone Wilson likewise for the visitors. Ben Jones’ effort was emphatic, but poor Jacob Dodds saw his attempt brilliantly saved by Craig Johnson. Staley for Knowle scored, as did Kenilworth’s Jason Evans, then Jacob Walton’s daisy-cutter defeated Osborn before Leo Franklin saw Johnson save his kick. However the goalkeeper was judged to have encroached beyond his line and the kick was re-taken resulting in a goal for Kenilworth this time. That left Captain George Seeley stepping up to seal matters for the Robins. The lottery that is the Penalty Shoot-Out had favoured Knowle, who now go through to the Semi Finals.

Knowle FC:

Johnson; Jones; Seymour; Clarke; McArdle; Bennett (Sinton); Morris; Staley; Mullen; G Seeley ©; Kartel (Walton).

Subs not used: Jack Ricketts, Mico, Callum.

___________________________________________________________________-

Forthcoming Fixtures:

SAT 11 March 2023: KO 15:00: Knowle -v- Cadbury Athletic at The ROBINS NEST – MFL D2

SAT 18 March 2023:Saturday Vase to be announced

Knowle in Cruise Mode

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 17:46:54 GMT

18th February 2023 - Knowle FC 2-0 Redditch Borough

Six straight wins in the League, nine in all competitions; the Robins keep the pressure on Cadbury Athletic and Sutton United in the MFL Division Two. This comfortable win was achieved without the Knowle overly extending themselves. Borough had little to offer, although they started the brighter. For the first ten minutes the Robins were in a sluggish mood. However, gradually they took control of the game.

Then in eight dynamic minutes, the result was put beyond doubt. Charlie Morris was fouled near the half-way line. Whilst we all wondered if Referee Jones would produce a yellow card, Morris took a quick free kick. The ball was sent along the right touch-line. When the centre came, it was Morris on the end of it in the area to open the scoring. Eight minutes later the Robins were awarded two corners in succession. From the second, Borough managed to clear the ball from the goal-line, only for Reece Staley to beat Swain from close range.

From this point the result was never in doubt. Borough could manage just one shot on target in the whole game, and that, a long range free kick hardly difficult for Craig Johnson to save. Morris and Corry had the freedom of the flanks, and with Jack Mullen a real thorn in the Borough side, there were few opportunities for them to get forward. When they did, they met a solid wall of red defenders.

There were other chances for Knowle. The fact that they went begging will trouble no one at Hampton Road. These three points were won in cruise mode. For their part, Redditch Borough had but one method of attack in their 4-4-2 formation: The long ball over the top by-passing the mid-field. It was never going to be effective against the meanest defence in the division.

Thoughts now turn to the next Round of the Les James Cup when Kenilworth Sporting visit the Draintech Community Stadium next Saturday. Another tough fixture. But, one thing is for sure, The Robins will be ready for the match and keen to progress.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Rainey (Jones); Seymour; L Clarke; McArdle; Ricketts; Morris [18]; Staley [26]; Mullen; G Seeley (Blythe); Corry (Walton) Subs not used: M Seeley & Burston-Keeley.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Saturday 4th March 2023 – Knowle FC v Kenilworth Sporting FC – Les James Cup – KO 1500

Saturday 11th March 2023 – Knowle FC v Cadbury Athletic FC – MFL D 2 – KO 1500

Wolves With Far Too Much Quality for Knowle

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 17:28:10 GMT

19th February 2023 - Knowle LFC 0-5 Wolves Women

For the second year in a row, County Cup Quarter Finals meant a visit from Wolves Women to Hampton Road. The highest ranked side in the competition were always going to represent a tough challenge for Knowle Ladies, but they battled hard throughout and kept things respectable, despite the eventual 0-5 score line

Knowle had to make a number of changes to the team due to injury and half term week; Claudia Mbanga came in for her debut in goal, at left back Celina Smallwood was handed her first start since a bad ankle injury and the formation changed accordingly. The home side set themselves up to be hard to beat, and caused issues in the opening stages whilst Wolves got to grips with the unpredictable pitch. Demi Rolph flew down the left side but couldn’t quite get her cross past Turner in the Wolves goal. However, poor marking in the box let Knowle down as early as the 7 ^th minute when Beth Roberts’ cross was headed home by Amy Dicken. Knowle were two down soon after, with another left sided attack from Wolves allowing Beth Merrick to skip round two challenges and tee up Ali Miller. Contest over, but if anything that helped Knowle tighten up and provide a sterner defence.

The Knowle Girls junior section were out in force again to cheer on their adult counterparts, and when Knowle managed get on the counter attack on a number of occasions, their voices were definitely well heard! Kate Fleming stole the ball in midfield and set Rolph running through, she slipped a pass to Jess Holland on the edge of box but she couldn’t get enough power behind her shot. Mbanga had to be alert to danger at the other end, collecting a high ball before being flattened by Miller, then palming a close range effort wide. She was aided by Maz Byrne, Sam Smith & Bex Clarke in front of her all making blocks and tackles to stem the flow. Another Knowle counter attack caused consternation in the Wolves backline however, Rolph showing good feet to go through on goal, but she hesitated to shoot and Laura Cooper was able to get back in and block her eventual attempt. Wolves then went close with a long range pile driver that flew just over the bar. The away side did grab their third just before half time; Darcy Cartwright made her way into the box out wide on the right and attempted to cross; the ball skewed off her foot and unfortunately looped over Mbanga into the net.

Knowle worked hard throughout the second half to try and restrict Wolves as best they could, and push forward where possible. Indeed, they were the first team on the attack again; Morgan Betteridge’s cross caused confusion between keeper Shan Turner and a defender who headed it out from in front of her; Rolph was inches away from the loose ball before Turner collected. As the Robins tired, it became more of a last ditch defending scenario. Byrne in particular was putting in tackles all around the penalty area, and Mbanga made two excellent saves. Wolves’ fourth goal came from a corner when Anna Price beat Smith in the air to nod back across and in at the unguarded post. They also nearly extended the lead when Katie Johnson’s fierce shot cannoned off the cross bar – it was so well hit it rebounded 20 yards! Abi Morris and Ebony Harris came on for Knowle and offered some fresh legs to help with the workload, Morris in particular pressing everything Wolves played across their backline. In stoppage time, the away team bagged their fifth goal; good interplay up top allowed Dicken to sneak in on the blindside and bend a fine finish into the net.

No surprise that the County Cup is over for another year then, but Knowle will be proud of their attitude and effort once more.

Knowle: Mbanga, Smallwood (Harris, 50), Smith, Clarke, Byrne, Betteridge, Gibson (Morris, 67), Fleming, Rolph, Holland, Barlow.

Seymour Shines Brightly Amid Robins Stars

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 15:03:30 GMT

18th February 2023 - Coventry Alvis 1-5 Knowle FC

The Seeleys have assembled a galaxy of stars at the Draintach Community Stadium, but Hayden Seymour shone brightly among them in this mis-match. Solid in defence, fleet of foot and productive in attack, he was the best of a very good bunch that wore the red and black last Saturday.

Alvis are a young side, who pass the ball about nicely, but without end product. They were totally outclassed in this match. Skill, determination and tactics; the Robins had it all. That the young Alvis players never gave up and continued to play football right up to the final whistle is testimony that they will improve. But in this match, it was all about the Robins.

At the start, Alvis employed a 3-4-3 formation that would present Knowle with problems early on. Indeed, the visitors were already one goal to the good before they even had to worry about Alvis’ set up. Right from the off Knowle forced a corner from which Jack Mullen headed home at the far post. The clock showed forty seconds!

Twenty minutes later an Alvis Free Kick was whipped into the Robin’s Area, only for the ball to skim from Rainey’s head and into the net. It would be the last time the home side came anywhere near to scoring. Knowle set about their task like professionals from there on in. Ten minutes from the break, Nathan Corry crossed from the right for Jack Mullen to secure his second goal of the afternoon. Right after the goal, aggravation broke out between the two benches. Assistant Referee Allan Salisbury was on hand to restore order, as he was at the very end of the match. It was disappointing that these two incidents soured the afternoon.

The second half began much as had the first. Within a minute Charlie Morris took advantage of an Alvis defensive mix-up to increase Knowle’s lead. Ten minutes later he did it again, this time from eighteen yards. Not to be outdone, Corry got his goal just after the hour mark. He too, pounced on a defensive mistake to make it five.

This was a comprehensive victory. Alvis had no answer to the Robins power-play. Morris and Corry had the freedom of the flanks, swopping with an intelligence that bemused the Alvis defence. At the back, the Robins’ defence was totally solid. In mid-field they dictated proceedings and up front they were a thorns for the home side. Seymour may be the man of the match, but every Robin on display had a really good game.

Afterwards, Matthew Seeley, Knowle’s Joint Manager was purring. He thought the three points were well deserved and well earned. He did say that the visit of Redditch Borough to The Robins’ Nest next Saturday would be a tough affair. He expects Borough to “Park the Bus” in an attempt to frustrate his players. No doubt it will be a game well worth watching.

Knowle: Johnson; Rainey; Seymour; Clarke; (Bailey) ; Ricketts; Morris [46 & 55] (Mico); Staley; Mullen [40 sec & 35] (Walton); G Seeley ©; Corry [63]. Subs not used: Callum Burston-Keeley.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Saturday 25th February 2023: Knowle v Redditch Borough: MFL D2: KO1500

Saturday 4th March 2023: Knowle v Kenilworth Sporting: Les James Cup: KO 1500

Saturday 11th March 2023: Knowle v Cadbury Athletic: MFL D2: KO 1500

Knowle Ladies Fall Short at Sphinx

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 11:26:20 GMT

12th February 2023 - Coventry Sphinx 2-0 Knowle LFC

A goal in either half condemned Knowle Ladies to their first league defeat of the season on Sunday as Coventry Sphinx ran out 2-0 winners in the top of the table clash. With both sides winning ten from ten in the league prior to this game, it was an intriguing clash that rested on fine margins.

Sphinx went ahead as early as the seventh minute, converting the first attempt on goal in the match. A breakdown in midfield led to them piling forward and the ball was played through for Kirsty Farnsworth to race onto. Katy Smirthwaite came out of goal to try to clear, but fell awkwardly, leaving Farnsworth to roll into an empty net and Smirthwaite down for treatment. The keeper tried to carry on, but had to limp off soon after. Midfielder Bex Clarke bravely volunteered to don the gloves but it forced Knowle into a reshuffle with Alana White entering the fray up top and Jess Barlow dropping back to the centre.

The changes rattled Knowle's belief somewhat and it took them a while to find their feet. Sphinx went close with a free kick that flew just wide of the post, and Maz Byrne and Morgan Betteridge both got vital challenges in to stop other promising attacks. The midfield battleground was fierce, with both sides putting in robust challenges and it was difficult for either side to get a clear sight of goal. The home side went close again when the high press created a shooting chance for Jodie McGuckin, but her attempt cannoned back off the bar. For the last ten minutes of the half, Knowle were back in their groove and started the threaten, two Natalie Gibson free kicks were cleared by the Sphinx defence, and Barlow’s attempt from the edge of box was straight at the keeper. Knowle’s best chance fell to Jess Holland, good work from Demi Rolph set her free in the box, but the Coventry keeper blocked the shot well with her feet. The score line therefore stayed at 1-0 when the halftime whistle blew. In truth, Sphinx had had the better of that first period and Knowle will have been pleased that the game was still finely poised.

Knowle offered more of an attacking threat in the second half, using their width to get forward. Betteridge produced an overlapping run early on which caused chaos and finished with an important clearance from Sphinx defender Amanda Whalley. Most of the action was still in the centre of the pitch, and when Sphinx did get forward they found Knowle’s player of the match Byrne in fine form, winning challenge after challenge. Both sides used set pieces as a way to threaten; Clarke got a hand to a header to push it onto the post to save Knowle from going further behind, and at the opposite end, Holland’s header was cleared off the line by Leonna McCook. Clarke was also able to drop on a loose ball amongst flying feet to prevent a scrambled goal. In search of an equaliser, Knowle upped the pressure and the Coventry keeper had to react smartly to tip long range efforts from Gibson and Emma Shaw. With three minutes left, the Robins were then hit with a sucker punch that killed off their hopes of taking a point; Sphinx broke clear down the right and Angel Scandrett was able to slot past Clarke.

A tough game that ended in disappointment for Knowle, but Coventry Sphinx used all their experience to deservedly shade it in the end. Next up for Knowle is an even tougher County Cup tie against Wolves Women, then it’s the return game against Sphinx!

Knowle: Smirthwaite (White, 15), Shaw, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Clarke, Gibson, Fleming, Rolph, Holland, Barlow.

Unused subs: Morris, Smallwood, Harris.

Knowle progress to Semi-final of the County Cup

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 10:58:49 GMT

11th February 2023 - AFC Somers 1-2 Knowle FC

Knowle battled hard to beat AFC Somers 2-1 in Saturday’s Quarter-final of the County Cup. The difficult surface made it challenging for Knowle to play their normal silky football but they battled against a strong Somers side that were always a threat on the break and at set pieces.

Knowle started brightly with George Seeley and Charlie Morris testing the home keeper in the first 3 minutes. However, the Somers found their feet and shot just wide after Craig Johnson’s misplaced clearance and also hit wide after their striker turned sharply in the area. Nathan Corry looked as if was due to score as his lob cleared the home keeper but somehow it also bounced just over the bar. The Somers shot stopper then tipped over Jack Mullen’s 25 yard effort. Mullen also headed past the post after the keeper deflected a cross. Then in the 28th minute Mullen picked up the ball in his own half, beat 2 men and played the ball through to George Seeley who successfully lobbed the keeper to give Knowle a deserved lead. Mullen had a great chance to extend the lead but the keeper denied him when he was through 1 on 1. Somers nearly got back on level terms in the 36th minute when they headed just wide from the third of 3 corners in quick succession. So it remained 1-0 to the Robins at the break.

The set piece threat produced an equaliser for the home team in the 52nd minute as they bundled the ball home at the back post from a corner. However, Knowle restored their lead 3 minutes later when Nathan Corry headed home from close range after some head tennis at a corner. Charlie Morris then just missed the target after a sharp one two with Mullen on the edge of the area. Knowle struggled to create another clear cut chance with Seeley, Mullen and Corry all hitting shots high and wide from promising positions. Somers remained a threat from set pieces but Knowle dealt with two late corners well to protect their lead. Reece Staley hit just wide from 25 yards in what turned out to be the last action of the game.

The win makes it 7 in a row as Knowle return to league action away at Coventry Alvis next weekend.

Robins Triumph in Six Point Thriller

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 17:09:24 GMT

4th February 2023 - Sutton United 1-2 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Coleshill Road.

For the second week running, The Robins conceded an goal at their left goal post. Sloppy defending, combined with lack of concentration, allowed Tom Massey to open the scoring on thirty-two minutes with a scrappy affair.

Up to that point this match had been strangely flat, considering the importance of a game where top of the table faced third. However, from the moment United went ahead, the match burst into life. They were in front for just six minutes however. The Robins responded in style and took control of the mid-field, and therefore of the match. Great work by Man of the Match Reece Staley, allowed the number eight to feed Jack Mullen with the perfect through ball. Mullen made no mistake from an acute angle.

Realising they had the momentum, The Robins pressed their hosts hard. With a spot of luck, they could have gone ahead. Two shots blocked and United needed all hands at the pump to keep The Robins out. As the first half came to an end, United’s Kaine Donald was screaming at his team-mates to get a grip.

The second half was a full-blooded affair with both sides going all out for the winner. Yet still The Robins held the middle-ground. United altered their formation half a dozen times in an attempt to confuse Knowle. Knowle were not confused. Instead they grabbed the chance to win the game. The Robins launched attack after attack and always looked the more likely to score. With the clock showing 56 minutes, Kartel O’Neil-Martin’s shot took a wicked deflection leaving Wagstaff in the home goal no chance. The Robins had their noses in front.

United had been starved of attempts on goal as the Division’s meanest defence showed its mettle. Twenty minutes from time United’s Lewis James took exception to O’Neil-Martin’s challenge. As the Knowle man moved away, James appeared to rake his studs down the back of his calf. O’Neil-Martin reacted and shaped up to James, pushing his face into James’ forehead, twice. Referee Leary had little choice but to send both players from the field. The final third of the match became a ten a side affair, with United losing a defender, and Knowle an attacker.

United did their level best to secure the equalizer they so desperately needed, yet only troubled Craig Johnson on two occasions. There were six extra minutes, enough time for another melee, this time in front of the visitor’s dug-out. The final whistle was greeted with loud cheers from the visiting supporters, and players. Make no mistake, this was a well deserved victory against a side who pass the ball around well. Nevertheless, Knowle were the better side, and posed problems to United, that the home side just could not solve.

This result leaves Knowle in third place in the MFL: Division Two table ten points behind United, but with three matches in hand.

Finally, thank you to the referee who had taken charge of a Birmingham AFA match prior to this one for agreeing to act as Assistant. Appointed referee Ryan Byrne had to pull out on short notice after dislocating his knee in a morning fixture, leaving David Leary to step up and Jonathan Phillips as the sole remaining assistant. Without the help of their colleague stepping in, Leary would have had to rely on Club Linesman on both flanks.

Knowle: Johnson; Rainey; Seymour; Clarke; McArdle; Bennett; Morris (Corry); Staley; Mullen [38]; G Seeley ©; O’Neil Martin [56] Subs not used: Jacob Walton; Jack Ricketts; Mico Ela Mamiaga.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Saturday 11th February 2023: AFC Somers v Knowle: Saturday Vase:

Saturday 18th February 2023: Coventry Alvis v Knowle: MFL D2: KO 1500

Saturday 25th February 2023: Knowle v Barnt Green Spartak, or Redditch Borough: MFL D2: KO1500

Saturday 4th March 2023: Knowle v Kenilworth Sporting: MFL D2: KO 1500

Ladies Pass Worcester Test

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 14:59:22 GMT

29th January 2023 - Knowle LFC 3-2 Worcester City

Knowle Ladies, cup games, 3-2 wins…a familiar storyline, as this is the third competition this season that has ended in that manner! Last Sunday was the turn of League Cup, with Worcester City the opponents at Hampton Road.

The visitors started the game far brighter and launched a dangerous attack straight from kick off. The right winger absolutely flew past the Knowle defence, danced along the by-line and was only blocked on the post by keeper Katy Smirthwaite. Natalie Gibson rose highest to clear the resulting corner but Worcester kept the pressure on and caused Knowle problems in the opening ten minutes. Smirthwaite flipped a snap shot over the bar and Gibson stretched out a leg to divert a goal bound shot wide; Knowle looked in trouble. It therefore wasn’t a surprise when the away side went ahead, albeit the manner of the goal was disappointing for the Robins as it came from their own set piece. Morgan Betteridge’s corner was claimed by the Worcester goalkeeper, and she launched a long kick that had the team in red scrambling. Camile Abbotts was left in a one on one foot race with Georgia Marratt, and despite her best efforts the Worcester forward pulled clear and finished nicely past Smirthwaite.

Knowle quickly restored parity with a well worked goal. Jess Barlow’s tenacity in midfield enabled her to feed Demi Rolph who in turn played in Jess Holland on goal. Holland held off the defender and placed a tidy finish past the Worcester keeper. This brought Knowle into the game and it was their turn to look dominant. Gibson’s range of passing was a different class, and so the angled ball out to Alana White on the right side caused chaos. The speedy forward found herself with three opportunities in short succession but somehow each slot flew just wide of the far post, with nobody following in for a certain easy tap in. Worcester were still getting into Knowle’s final third and it took two carefully timed slide tackles from Sam Smith to prevent a shot, plus Smirthwaite was fast off her line to block when she needed to be. Their corners and set pieces were particularly dangerous, Abbotts headed one clear and then a pinball scenario required last ditch defending from the Knowle backline. Betteridge also went close for the home side after Barlow teed her up on the edge of the box and with the last action of the half, Rolph beat two defenders out wide but she fired over the bar. One all at halftime and plenty to admire from both sides.

The second half began in a much calmer manner than the first, and it took ten minutes for either side to create a chance. It was worth the wait for Knowle supporters though as it led to their side going in front. Betteridge’s corner was recycled back out by Barlow, and the full back swung another cross in that was met at the back post by Maz Byrne, leaping above everyone and looping her header into the goal. Both goalkeepers were put to work soon after, Worcester’s stopper making a good save from Holland then Smirthwaite holding onto a rasping long range effort. Knowle had the ball in the net again when White set up Rolph, but she was flagged offside, and then White herself hit the bar with a thunderous shot.

At this point it looked like Knowle were going to pull away, with Worcester not quite managing to threaten as they had in the first half. Holland and Rolph went close again, Worcester cleared one off the line and the Robins were first to most things across the pitch. However the away side weren’t done; they stood up to the challenge and hit back with a goal on the breakaway from Elspeth Hill to pull the score back to 2-2. With fifteen minutes left on the clock, Knowle pushed again for a goal. Abi Morris set Rolph up with a deft header, but the linesman’s flag thwarted her again, and Gibson’s free kick was gathered well by the Worcester keeper. It looked as though the match would be heading to penalties, but Betteridge had other ideas. Two minutes remaining, she collected a loose ball 25 yards out on the right side and looped her shot over the goalkeeper to put her side a goal to the good. There was just enough time in the game for Worcester to come close to another equaliser, but Smirthwaite was quick off her line to smother the ball at the forward’s feet.

The 3-2 score line proved enough to send Knowle through to the quarter finals, where they will face Port Vale. Another end to end game at Hampton Road between these two sides also, and the away fixture at Worcester will surely be one to watch later in the season.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Gibson, Barlow, Abbotts, Rolph, Holland, White.

Subs: Morris (for White, 65), Harris (for Abbotts, 65)

Knowle Cruise Through To Quarter Finals

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 13:58:19 GMT

28th January 2023 - Knowle FC 3-1 Wake Green Amateurs

Ronald Crane reports from the Draintech Community Ground

On a difficult pitch, Wake Green were on top for the first ten minutes of this match. They settled quicker than their hosts, and adapted to the problematic conditions from the start. The Robins were slow out of the starting blocks, and conceded an early goal. Coohey’s header from a corner, ought to have been dealt with. But sloppy defending and a lack of concentration allowed Wake Green to take the lead. It was not to happen again for the rest of the match.

The goal certainly gave The Robins a wake-up call. They responded in style. The visitors were to be in front for just three minutes. Knowle put their foot firmly on the pedal and were rewarded when the influential Charlie Morris curled home from eighteen yards. It was a beautiful goal and received applause from all present, home and away fans alike.

From that moment it was obvious who would eventually win this intriguing game. Both sides were intent on playing a passing game on a pitch that hardly deserved such quality. But it was The Robins who carried out this policy better. Wake Green pass the ball about very well, but they had very little to offer up front. The visitors had only one clear-cut chance, deep into the second-half when Ashley Smith headed a corner right into Craig Johnson’s welcoming arms.

The Robins were having joy along both flanks, but they also controlled mid-field, and Messers Staley, Seymour, Raines, and McArdle were solid at the back. Even a turned down penalty appeal did not thwart their endeavour.

The Seeleys had shuffled their pack because Nathan Corry and Lewis Clarke were unavailable, yet it was the same high standard performance, with captain George Seeley, Charlie Morris and Kartel O’Neil-Martin all shinning. That is not to say that others were not pulling their weight. The whole team did all that was expected of them. At the close it was a comprehensive victory. Wake Green are certainly a star of MFL Division Three, but they were no match for Division Two.

Just on the hour mark, Kartel O’Neil-Martin hit the net from distance with another beautiful goal that brought loud applause of appreciation. For the rest of the game, Wake Green offered very little and a strange penalty decision with thirty minutes to go settled the whole affair. It was Kartel who stepped up to the spot and sent Nore Gabbiden the wrong way. It all ended with a three to one win for The Robins.

In 2023 the men from Hampton Road have played three matches, scoring eleven goals and conceding just one. They are in good form for next Saturday’s visit to Sutton United, the match of the day for certain.

Knowle: Johnson; Staley; Seymour; Rainey; McArdle; Bennett (Bailey); Morris [10]; Ricketts (Jones); Walton (Mullen); Seeley ©; O’Neil Martin [29: 66p](Mico Ela Mamiaga) Subs not used: Craig Gaziewski.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Saturday 4th February 2023: Sutton United FC v Knowle FC: MFL D2 at (COLESHILL ROAD NURSERIES), COLESHILL ROAD, SUTTON COLDFIELD B75 7BA, KO 1400

Saturday 11th February 2023: AFC Somers v Knowle: Saturday Vase:

Saturday 18th February 2023: Coventry Alvis v Knowle: MFL D2: KO 1500

Saturday 25th February 2023: Knowle v Barnt Green Spartak: MFL D2: KO1500

Robins Ease Through

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 16:00:00 GMT

17th January 2023 - DSC United 0-2 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Boldmere Stadium

Although The Robins only scored two goals, it was enough for them to ease past their MFL Division Three rivals, DSC Utd on a very cold evening at the well-appointed Boldmere Stadium. In many ways it was a strange match, with both sides playing a passing game but with different set ups. DSC employing a 3 - 5 -2 formation, with Knowle preferring a 4 – 2 – 3- 1 set up.

Both sides set about their task with gusto and the 3G pitch encouraged the passing game. Yet the home side’s passing rarely led anywhere, whereas The Robins controlled the match with a well-marshalled defence and midfield. Hayden Seymour was outstanding. For United, the impressive Ahmed Ali gave a cultured performance that ensured The Robins were restricted to just two goals. But for him, it could have been more.

Untied began well enough and caused The Robins’ defence some worries in the opening exchanges. But with their first attack Charlie Morris sent a peach of a pass through the middle for Kartel O’Neil-Martin to score from sixteen yards. United’s endeavour took a big hit with the goal, and from that moment on it was odds-on that The Robins would be victorious.

United did make the byline and produce a cross on a number of occasions, yet there was no-one in the six yard box to meet the cross. One felt for their manager, he must have been thinking, “Oh for a Centre Forward”! The rest of the first-half passed with little excitement. The action was entirely in mid-field and with The Robins in total control.

At the break The Robins brought on Lewis Rainey and Reece Staley, and United altered their formation to match that of The Robins. It made little difference, and the affair was decided for good when Nathan Corry benefitted from really good work in mid-field by Kartel O’Neil-Martin, to double the score.

From that moment on all United had to offer were a series of long-range efforts that were never going to trouble Craig Johnson between The Robins’ posts. As the clock ticked towards the close, United became more urgent and desperate. It was never going to close the two-goal gap. The boys in red were in total control.

The Robins now travel to meet A F C Somers of MFL Division Three on Saturday 11th February in the Quarter finals of the Saturday Vase.

Knowle: Johnson; Jones (Rainey); Seymour; Clarke; McArdle; Bennett (Walton); Morris (Gasiewski); Ricketts (Staley); Corry [63]); Seeley; O’Neil Martin [11]

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Saturday 21st January 2023 – Knowle v Kenilworth Sporting – MFL D2 – KO 1400

Saturday 28th January 2023 – Knowle v Wake Green – Les James Cup – KO 1400

Saturday 4th February 2023 – Sutton United v Knowle – MFL D2 – KO 1430

County Cup Thriller Sees Knowle Into The Quarter Finals

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 10:44:26 GMT

15th January 2023 - Knowle LFC 3-2 Crusaders LFC

It was County Cup action on Sunday afternoon for Knowle Ladies as they welcomed neighbours Crusaders to Hampton Road. Third time lucky for this tie after two postponements, both sides served up a proper cup tie that showed their qualities.

The first half was an end to end affair, with both teams making inroads into each other’s territory but finding a solid defence in their way. Crusaders had the first chance of the game when Katie Adams latched onto Katy Smithwaite’s clearance, but her attempted lob bounced wide of the post. Lucy Jones also tracked back well to whip the ball off the forward's toes as she was about to shoot from the edge of the area. Knowle were the first team to have the ball in the net however; Camile Abbotts produced a nice turn to shake off her defender and played in Demi Rolph with a through ball but her confident finish was chalked off for offside. Jess Barlow and Bex Clarke then combined to send the forward in again, but Kloe Douglas made a superb block.

Douglas and team mate Rachael Dyson were defending the dangerous Rolph well, keeping pace with her on the left side and making well timed tackles to halt her runs, so Knowle found success by switching play to the right side. Sam Smith mopped up a long ball and played it to Abbotts, whose first time ball round the corner was met by Jess Holland. She squared in Morgan Betteridge who had bombed forward from full back but her effort flew over the bar. The visitors won several set pieces in the half, but the delivery was wasteful with a couple of corners and a free kick sailing straight out of play, and that limited their chances. They did fashion a good chance from a ball down the line on Knowle’s left, but Maz Byrne was alert to the danger and got across to make the block. No goals and limited clear cut chances in the first half then, with the two defences on top for a nil nil score at halftime.

The second half was a different story! Five goals in total, and a couple more disallowed! Knowle raced into the lead in the first ten minutes of the half. Holland won a corner for her side after neat interplay with Abbotts, though Crusaders disagreed with the decision, believing the Knowle forward got the final touch. Emma Shaw’s delivery was spot on once again; Maz Byrne rose highest at the far post to firmly plant a header into the net. Knowle were coming out on top all over the pitch at this point and looked dangerous, Lucy Jones was beating the full back at will and linking up with Betteridge to provide plenty of crosses into the box that caused Crusaders to scramble to clear their lines.

The second goal was a great team effort; Betteridge was first to the ball on the halfway line from keeper Justine Lewis' kick before squaring to Clarke. She pivoted it out to Abbotts who broke midfield line with good skill and sent Barlow free; Barlow’s pass found Rolph in the box and she was able to smash her finish into the net. Soon after it was 3-0 and this was perhaps goal of the season, let alone the game. Jones worked the ball down the line and played back to Betteridge, and her left footed cross was met by Rolph with a bicycle kick that flew into the far corner, leaving Lewis stranded.

It looked like that could be game over, but to their credit, Crusaders came out fighting and Knowle were then somewhat guilty of taking their foot off the pedal for the final 25minutes of the game. The team in yellow pulled one back when they poured forward in numbers to create an overload; the right winger managed to get wrong side of Knowle’s defence and although Smirthwaite saved her attempt, Adams slammed in the rebound. Smirthwaite’s handling was impeccable throughout the afternoon and Knowle had to rely on her grabbing two long range attempts from under the crossbar. There was nothing she could do about the away side’s second goal however; Smith blocked a shot on the edge of the box, but the Dyson picked up the loose ball and strode forward. Her ball into the box was worked out to the left side by Danielle Keegan and despite Jones’ last ditch tackle attempt, Ellis Read slotted home. 3-2 and game very much on.

Knowle went into consolidation mode, dropping Clarke into a back five, but it was actually the home side who nearly extended their lead soon after. Shaw’s free kick caused chaos in the box, with the ball eventually bouncing to Rolph to poke home, but the flag cut short her celebrations despite Knowle protests that the ball had been sliced to her by a Crusaders player. Knowle needed that fifth defender when Clarke headed away a dangerous cross, and was first to react to clear a quickly taken corner. It was then Crusaders turn to be thwarted by a linesmen’s flag just on the ninety minute mark; a corner was nodded down into the six yard box and fired into the net by the waiting attacker, but Knowle’s line had followed the ball out. A chance at either end followed; Rolph shot wide after racing through the tired defenders and then Jones made a great block at the other end to stop Crusader’s final attack.

An exciting game between two well matched sides which in truth could have gone either way; but that stunning goal by Rolph turned out to be the winner. 3-2 the final score, sending Knowle into the quarter finals where they face a tie against Wolves.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Clarke, Abbotts, Barlow, Rolph, Holland, Jones. Subs: Morris (for Rolph, 30), Harris (for Abbotts, 80)

Knowle Hit Six!

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 10:34:09 GMT

7th January 2023 - Knowle FC 6-0 Lane Head

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground

Knowle Joint Managers, Clive and Matthew Seeley made just one change to the team that did so well at Earlswood on Bank Holiday Monday, George Seeley returned from suspension to replace the unavailable Jack Mullen. Returning from injury, Lewis Rainey began on the bench. Right from the first whistle it was obvious that this was a mismatch. Lane Head did their best, and for that they deserve respect; although their heads did drop at the start of the second half, they never ceased to try and compete with their opponents. The gap in class was just too great. The Robins bossed this match from start to finish.

It was in the second minute of the match that it was sealed. A corner from the right was turned home by Vice-Captain Christian McArdle. The game was played mostly in the visitors’ half of the park, and they never managed a shot of any kind for the whole ninety-five minutes. In contrast, Knowle hit the target nineteen times, six of which were goals. Having said that Lane Head goalkeeper, Chris Adamson gave a heroic display, particularly in the last twenty minutes, when he pulled off a series of spectacular saves that kept the score, more or less, respectable.

Controlling the midfield was key to this result. The Robins duo of Bennett and Ricketts had the freedom of Hampton Road. With other team-mates enjoying similar freedom it was a rout. Charlie Morris, the effervescent Kartel O’Neil Martin and George Seeley each scored, and Jacob Walton added two more to make it six.

The Robins will face stiffer opposition that this next Saturday away at Fairfield Villa, the more so since their manager watched this game. One wonders what that will mean for Villa, and indeed for The Robins?

Knowle: Johnson; Jones (Rainey); Seymour; Clarke (Barrett); McArdle [2]; Bennett; Morris [53]; Ricketts (Bailey); Corry (Walton [82 & 90+1]); Seeley [25]; O’Neil Martin [61] Subs not used: Joe Sinton.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Saturday 14th January 2023 – Fairfield Villa v Knowle – MFL D2 – KO 1400

Tuesday 17th January 2023 – DSC United FC v Knowle – Saturday Vase – KO 1945 at Boldemere St Michael’s Ground, Church Road, Sutton Coldfield, B73 5RY.

Saturday 21st January 2023 – Knowle v Kenilworth Sporting – MFL D2 – KO 1400

Saturday 28th January 2023 – Knowle v Wake Green – Les James Cup – KO 1400

Robins End Town's Home Record

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 10:30:24 GMT

2nd January 2023 - Earlswood Town 0-3 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from The Pavillions

2023 was ushered in at The Pavilions with a cracking game of football on a very heavy pitch, certainly not conducive to attractive, passing, football. But that is exactly what the two teams served up for the large crowd. Town had played only once since the 3rd December, The Robins not at all.

Right from the off The Robins took the match to their hosts. The match was so packed with incidents, that I almost ran out of paper to record them. Although Town did start brightly enough, it was The Robins who caught the eye, with their energy, ability to pass on a difficult playing surface, and tactical acumen. Jack Mullen was everywhere. Kartel O’Neil Martin was making a real nuisance of himself, with Nathan Corry dragging the defence out wide. Dylon Bennett and Jack Ricketts ran the midfield with Charlie Morris making it three when not assisting the front men.

At the back Lewis Clarke was a real rock, ably assisted by Ben Jones, Hayden Seymour, and Christian McArdle. The Man of the Match could have been any one of them. But two goal O’Neil Martin was awarded the prize.

Although The Robins ran the show for the first forty-five minutes, we had to wait until the 28th minute for a goal, even then it was a scrappy affair. Charlie Morris sent over a cross from the right, and with a host of defenders to cope with, Nathan Corry managed to squeeze the ball home. Town heads dropped, and they did not really respond until after the break.

In that first-half, The Robins had a host of clear cut chances, seven in fact. All were wasted. The talk at the break was whether the visitors would rue those missed chances. Town’s ‘Keeper Paul Evans had been magnificent in preventing Knowle scoring more than that single goal.

Town were a different side in the second-half. They pushed The Robins back, and it was all hands to the pump to keep them out. But the salient point is the Knowle defence was rock-like and restricted Town only a couple of real chances – even then custodian Johnson was up to the mark.

Gradually The Robins re-gained control of the match. Twenty minutes into the second-half they were awarded a Penalty which Kartel O’Neil Martin dispatched with ease. Ten minutes later he doubled his score to put the match to bed with a wonderful effort from eighteen yards, after being beautifully fed by Jack Mullen. As Town had pushed for that equaliser, The Robins had been content to soak up the pressure and play on the break. The ploy worked rather well. Indeed it could have been four goals had Referee Rodwell awarded the late Penalty that Knowle’s players, bench, and supporters wanted.

This was a fantastic match, and both sides would not disgrace MFL Division One.

Knowle: Johnson; Jones (Barrett); Seymour; Clarke; McArdle ©; Bennett; Morris (Jennings); Ricketts; Mullen; O’Neil Martin [63p] [75]; Corry [28] (Staley). Sub not used: M Seeley.

Knowle Ladies Too Strong For Bewdley

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 17:13:57 GMT

27th November 2022 - Knowle LFC 6-1 Bewdley Town LFC

For the second week in a row, Knowle Ladies ran out 6-1 winners at home, though this was certainly a more assured performance than last week’s cup win. Knowle showed their quality throughout against a Bewdley side with plenty of know-how at this level.

Knowle raced in to an early lead not five minutes into the match; the in-form Demi Rolph positioned herself perfectly to gather a Bewdley goal kick, breeze past the full back and slot the ball past the keeper. The movement and incisiveness of Knowle’s attackers were causing all sorts of problems; Camile Abbotts linked up with Jess Barlow to create a chance for Jess Holland, but her attempt was saved well. The home side didn’t have to wait long for their second; Maz Byrne snapped into the tackle and won possession on the halfway line before playing forward to Holland. She flicked it round the corner and Rolph nipped in between the centre halves and goalkeeper to score again.

Morgan Betteridge found herself with lots of space on Knowle’s right side and her delivery was pinpoint in setting up chances for her teammates. First Holland went close with an overhead kick, then Rolph’s volley flew wide before Knowle won a corner when yet another another Betteridge cross was turned away by the Bewdley defender. Emma Shaw whipped the ball in, the keeper clawed it away from goal and Sam Smith was on hand at the back post to nod home and put Knowle 3-0 to the good.

The home side had the luxury of a full bench, so rang the changes on the thirty minute mark. Abbie Diskin was straight into the thick of things, seeing plenty of possession out wide, but her final ball was easily cleared by Bewdley. Lucy Jones also made an impact, playing a fabulous through ball into Barlow to create a shooting chance that flew just over the bar. It was Bewdley however who had the ball in the net next, with their first real opportunity of the game. Smith was stretching for a through ball and wrong-footed keeper Katy Smirthwaite, leaving the striker clear to run on and finish well. Diskin then had to whip the ball off the same striker’s toes when it looked like she may run through again. Knowle hit back with another goal; Natalie Gibson disposed a midfielder and played in Rolph; she cut back inside round the defender and slotted her hat-trick goal into the net. The halftime whistle blew soon after with Knowle 4-1 up.

At the start of the second half, Bewdley pushed forward well and fashioned a couple of opportunities. Smirthwaite dealt with a long range attempt well and then the wingers shot flew straight across the front of goal. Byrne and Bex Clarke reacted sharply to block a shot and clear lines soon after. Knowle got back to grips with the midfielder battleground however, Clarke screening the back four whenever the away side attacked, intercepting passes then launching her side back on the attack. On one occasion she player a neat one two with Gibson, who was tripped up cynically but the referee played a great advantage when she regained her footing. Gibson found Barlow, whose fierce shot was pushed wide. From the resulting corner, Byrne flicked a header into the far post for her side’s fifth goal of the day. Abi Morris put in a number of good challenges at full back, and nearly set up Holland with a through ball, but the defender got back to clear.

Knowle were at full tilt now, and won a penalty that was duly despatched by Rolph when the Bewdley defender deliberately deflected a shot wide with her hand. Somewhat against the run of play, the next chance fell to Bewdley when their skipper drove forward well. Smith got the tackle in, but the ball flicked out the edge of box where the attacker hit a piledriver that cannoned back off the bar. As the game wore on and their opponents tired, the latter stages were all Knowle however. The Bewdley full back earned a booking for flattening Rolph; Betteridge crossed in the free kick and Kate Fleming hit the post with her header. Fleming suddenly found herself on the end of everything; she drove a shot wide after being set up nicely by Abbotts and Clarke then headed a Gibson free kick wide of the post too. There was still time in the game for Holland to go close with a strong shot after Clarke set her up, but the keeper was equal to it.

6-1 the final score, and a performance with plenty to enjoy from the Robins; they were full of energy and creativity going forward and kept things tight off the ball as well. They’re back in action next week with a home League Cup tie against a good Worcester City side, so see you at The Nest for that one!

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Clarke, Fleming, Abbotts, Rolph, Holland, Barlow.

Subs: Jones (for Clarke, 30), Gibson (for Abbotts, 30), Morris (for Shaw, 30), Diskin (for Betteridge, 30).

Silly Mistakes Cost Knowle

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 17:06:59 GMT

26th November 2022 - Knowle FC 1-3 Sutton United

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground

This match, played on a mild winter Saturday afternoon, began, continued and ended in farce. Kick off was slightly delayed due to the match balls being left in the referee's room, and only one assistant arrived.

The Robins fielded two new signings in Hayden Seymour and Kartell O’Neil-Martin with another, Jack Ricketts, on the bench.

United were the first out of the blocks, taking control of the match from kick-off. But The Robins gradually came into the match and held their own. Frustration of all players, was not helped by the absence of an assistant referee. Early in the match, the tackles flew in, with referee Hellqvist content to let the game continue. Very few free kicks were awarded.

The Robins were unable to get behind United’s defence, consequently their attacks were blunted. At the other end, United’s forwards seemed unaware that to score, the ball needs to go between the posts and not outside them.

As the break came nearer the home side were more than holding their own until disaster struck. With the boys in red appealing for a penalty that was not given, United rushed up the field. A defensive error by The Robins, allowed Massey to open the scoring. It was United’s only shot on target in the first-half. The goal was especially galling for Knowle as United were down to ten men at the time, their captain Duggen in the Sin Bin.

Whatever was said in The Robins’ dressing room at half-time, certainly had effect. For the second half they were well on top. The tackles continued to rain in, players lay prone as play continued. The referee issued numerous yellow cards, and frustration deepened. Lewis Cosgrove stabbed home from a corner as Knowle drew level. But yet another defensive mix-up let United off the hook as Donald took full advantage.

The farce intensified as the Robins pushed the equalizer. Time seemed to continue with no end, and nobody sure how long actually remained on the clock. In the tenth minute of added time, Knowle old boy Jordan Hall rubbed salt in the wound with a third goal for the visitors.

The final score flattered United, as the Robins had done more than enough to share the points; but for those two stupid defensive mistakes.

Clive and Matthew Seeley have much work to do as we near the New Year and the sharp end of the season.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Sinton; Seymour; L Clarke; Cosgrove © [50]; Bennett; O’Neil-Martin; Seeley (Ricketts); Corry (Jones); Hewitt; Morris. Subs not used: Walton and Barrett.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Sat 3rd Dec - Hampton v Knowle – MFL D2 – KO 1400

Sat 10th Dec Knowle v Wake Green -MFL D2 KO 1400

Photographs (C) Peter Ray

County Cup Canter for Ladies

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 22:18:34 GMT

20th November 2022 - Knowle LFC 6-1 Tipton Town

Knowle Ladies enjoyed a comfortable win against Tipton Town in the County Cup last weekend, running out 6-1 winners.

In the pouring rain, the tone of the game was set in the first ten seconds; Knowle launched a swift attack straight from kick off but Demi Rolph’s shot hit the post. The home side peppered their opponent’s goal from there on in, red shirts swarming forward at every opportunity. They were thwarted on a number of occasions by Tipton’s goalkeeper who was in inspired form; Rolph, Jess Barlow, Jess Holland and Lucy Jones all saw their shots well saved. However their build-up play was excellent and with the amount of chanced they created, it was only a matter of time before Knowle did take the lead. Rolph hit a quick fire double, finishing off balls played in by Camile Abbotts and Morgan Betteridge respectively and Knowle were 2-0 up and cruising.

The Robins were guilty of rushing things in front of goal in their desire to score more; chances went begging and the final ball was often awry. However, when they got it right, they were incisive – Betteridge crossed for Rolph, the keeper saved her shot yet again but Holland was on hand to thrash home the rebound. Rolph then thought she had her hat-trick but the goal was struck off by the linesman’s flag. The fourth was another good piece of play; Barlow combined with Jones to work the ball inside to Abbotts and she found Kate Fleming ghosting into the box. Fleming hit her shot across goal and the keeper blocked it, but Emma Shaw knocked home the rebound to give her side a 4-0 lead. There was no time to celebrate though; Knowle blotted their copy book when Tipton thumped the kick off forward, Sam Smith missed her clearance and the forward was cool enough to finish easily past Katy Smirthwaite.

The 4-1 half time score line didn’t flatter Knowle, and in truth they should really have extended it. The second half followed much the same pattern, with the home side attacking at will. Knowle had two goals disallowed for offside; Maz Byrne the provider on both occasions but scorers Holland and Rolph’s celebrations were cut short by the flag. Rolph did eventually get her hat trick after watching the keeper save two one on one attempts; Holland laid off a square ball to leave her with the simple task of finding the net.

Becca Holden and Abi Morris had joined the fun from the bench early on in the second half and both were causing Tipton problems, linking well with the forwards ahead of them. Morris nearly picked up an assist when she set up Betteridge, but the keeper palmed her attempt over the bar. Knowle’s sixth and final goal was created by Abbotts; she shimmied her way past the opposing midfielder then split the defence with a pass that Rolph slotted past the keeper.

A simple enough win for Knowle then, but huge credit to Tipton – as a new team from the lower leagues they knew they had a difficult task on their hands but they worked incredibly hard for each other and never gave up.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Abbotts, Fleming, Jones, Rolph, Holland, Barlow.

Subs: Morris (for Betteridge, 55), Holden (for Shaw, 55).

Blades No Match For Robins

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 22:13:41 GMT

19th November 2022 - Jet Blades 0-4 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Camp Farm.

Both these sides were depleted with absentees because of injury and unavailability. Consequently, the match lost a sense of excitement. It was, to be frank, a rather dull affair, It took the visitors twenty-two minutes to open the scoring, Ben Jones hitting the net from eighteen yards.

New-boy, Mike Jennings added a second, proffiting from a peach of a pass from Dylon Bennett. With the clock on thirty minutes it was all over, Jacob Walton grabbing the first of his two goals.

This goal highlighted the problem of only having one official, relying on clubs to provide the Assistants. To my eye, there was a clear off-side in the build up the third Knowle goal. But the flag went up, and was immediately taken down, therefore the goal stood.

From that moment, the result was never really in doubt. Jet Blades did their level best. They tried to play football, but their visitors knew too much. In skill, tactics, fitness, and quality, the gap between the sides was at least three goals. Yet the final score did flatter the Robins somewhat.

In mid-field Knowle were in total control, with a secure defence and Charlie Morris having the free-reign of the flanks, this was a comprehensive victory. Blades did their level best, and never gave in, but the result was never going to favour them.

The second-half dragged on rather. Knowle content with their lead, and Jet Blades unable to do anything about it. Insult was added to the home side’s injury with five minutes to go when a real mix up in defence allowed Walton to score his second and Knowle’s fourth.

Knowle: Johnson; Bailey; Jennings [22]; Clarke (Barrett); Cosgrove ©; McArdle; Bennett; Jones [15]; Walton [30 & 85]; Seeley; Morris. Subs not used: Sinton and M Seeley.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Saturday 26th November: Knowle v Sutton United (League) KO 1400

Ladies Work Hard to Conquer Worcester

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 21:58:59 GMT

13th November 2022 - Knowle LFC 4-2 Worcester City

Knowle Ladies ground out a 4-2 win against Worcester in an unusually edgy performance, most unlike what we have seen from the team throughout the season so far.

The disjointed performance was perhaps even more surprising given that Knowle started superbly, pinning their opponents back into their own half and creating plenty of opportunities. Demi Rolph had the ball in the net after just three minutes after beating the keeper to Morgan Betteridge’s cross, but the referee disallowed it for a high boot. Natalie Gibson then went close, bending a left foot shot just wide of the post after good work from Jess Barlow set her up. Knowle’s first goal of the game was straight from a corner; Betteridge swung the ball in and Kate Fleming rose to flick a deft header into the net at the far post. The home side pressed forward to try and double their lead; Rolph crossed for Holland but her volley was straight at the keeper, then Barlow’s attempt was blocked well by defenders converging from all angles.

Play then became a little scrappy from both sides, but Worcester did find their groove and created a period of pressure. Four consecutive corners were cleared by Knowle, but not without hearts in mouths on a couple of occasions as the ball shackalacked around the penalty area. Worcester grabbed an equaliser when the right winger skipped round three poor challenges and wrong footed Katy Smirthwaite in the Knowle goal. Knowle drove forward again; Sam Smith and Bex Clarke worked the ball well to set up Gibson on the edge of the box once more, but her shot dipped over the bar. There was still time in the half for Fleming to shine; she pinched the ball in the midfield for the umpteenth time in the game and slotted in Rolph with an excellent through ball, but the forward’s shot was well saved by the away team’s keeper.

Knowle came out for the second half aiming to push higher up the pitch and regain authority. It looked as though they had done that with another early goal; substitute Alana White was an immediate threat and she combined well with Betteridge before the full back was chopped down. Gibson crossed in the free kick and Fleming got across the keeper to volley home a neat finish. Soon after, Worcester went close with a free kick that Smirthwaite saved low to her left but Knowle didn’t heed the warning signs. Worcester’s positivity got duly rewarded - their equaliser came not five minute after the Robins’s goal. Smith played the ball back to Smirthwaite, but her kick was straight at the onrushing Worcester forward on the edge of box. Maz Byrne and Smith managed to crowd her out, but the ball bounced out to her strike partner who made no mistake from the edge of box in finding the empty net.

Knowle had to pick themselves up again, and nearly regained the lead immediately; Clarke played in White but the keeper saved her shot and nobody in a Knowle shirt was close enough to pick up the pieces. Rolph was flying down the left side whenever Knowle could find her feet, and she created a great chance for Barlow but her shot cannoned off the bar. Five minutes later she set up Betteridge as well, but her volley was off target. It was Worcester who then hit the woodwork; they floated in a free kick, Smithwaite palmed it away from goal and the follow up shot struck the post. Smirthwaite also had block a close range attempt after a deep cross evaded her and Gibson couldn’t shepherd it out of play thanks to the forward’s tenacious work. Knowle’s main quality was coming from the tireless Fleming, who was head and shoulders the best player on the pitch for the ninety minutes. She pickpocketed a midfielder before racing forward to break lines and find Camile Abbotts. Abbotts picked out a great through ball to Rolph but her shot was pushed round the post. From the resulting corner however, Rolph found herself with a free header and planted Emma Shaw’s ball firmly into the net to give her side a 3-2 lead. A few minutes later it was 4-2 and Knowle could finally relax. Abbotts rose high in her own box to beautifully clear a free kick, Shaw worked it forward to Rolph and she was able to slide an inch perfect pass to White to put her clean through on goal. The young forward, who had been excellent since coming on, calmly produced a fine finish, opening up her body to slot it past the keeper.

From there, Knowle were able to see out the last ten minutes in comfortable fashion. They will know they need to bring performance standards back up in the coming weeks however if they are to maintain their title challenge. Up next for the Ladies is three consecutive home games, starting with Tipton Town in the County Cup next Sunday.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Clarke, Fleming, Gibson, Rolph, Holland, Barlow. Subs: White (for Holland, 45), Abbotts (for Clarke, 60), Morris (for Betteridge, 80), Diskin (for Gibson, 80), Jones (for Fleming, 80).

Seven Up For Knowle Ladies

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 13:08:16 GMT

6th November 2022 - Droitwich Spa 0-7 Knowle LFC

Knowle Ladies lined up against Droitwich Spa for the second game in a row looking to improve on last week’s 3-1 win and they certainly achieved that with an emphatic 0-7 victory!

Knowle earned themselves a corner straight from the kick off to exert early pressure on Droitwich; the keeper punched Morgan Betteridge’s centre straight into the air and although Sam Smith outjumped the bodies to get a head on it, she could only direct the ball wide. Chances came thick and fast for Knowle - Natalie Gibson shaved the post with a long range effort and Jess Barlow’s effort flew right across goal. They did then have the ball in the back of the net, when Emma Shaw played in Demi Rolph to beat the keeper, only to have it ruled it out for offside. Droitwich were finding it difficult to get out of their own half, with Knowle’s high press forcing them into mistakes at the back but the away side couldn’t quite capitalise on those. When Droitwich did venture forward, Bex Clarke and Smith were able to mop up and play forward once more. From one such counter attack, Barlow teed up Jess Holland but her effort was saved by the keeper.

Alana White was introduced for her Knowle debut on the half hour mark and she was soon in the thick of the action, driving down the right side and creating a good chance for Rolph to shoot just over the bar. White herself had the opportunity to shoot when Kate Fleming’s inch perfect through ball set her free, but she squared it to Holland who was crowded out. Knowle did eventually break down a stout Droitwich defence to get their goal with thirty three minutes on the clock. Shaw whipped in a free kick from the right side; Smith thumped a header at goal but it hit Holland on the line. Thankfully the rebound fell straight back to Smith who slotted it past the keeper to give Knowle a 0-1 lead. Three minutes later, the defender had a brace; Betteridge’s corner was dangerous, Holland and Smith rose together and the former flicked it straight onto the latter’s head, planting the ball in at the near post. Knowle were camped out in the home side’s territory for the remainder of the half and were rewarded with another goal on the stroke of halftime. Skipper Fleming won the ball and drove forward before being felled by a clumsy tackle thirty five yards from goal on the left side. Gibson curled in the free kick and Rolph met it on the half volley with a superb side foot to drill the ball past the keeper.

At 0-3 up, much of the crowd were expecting Knowle to go on to dominate the second half, but in truth they began the second period in shaky fashion and Droitwich had their best spell of the game in those ten minutes. A dangerous cross flew across the face of the Knowle goal begging for a tap in before keeper Katy Smirthwaite had to deal with a long range effort and claim a corner to keep the home side at bay. Clarke then found herself in the referee’s book for hauling back a player on the halfway line and Rolph soon followed when she chased back well but took out the winger with a mistimed slide tackle. It took another goal to settle Knowle back into their groove and it was a good one. Betteridge bought the ball out of defence and fed Gibson, she played a through ball that Rolph raced onto, jinked past the keeper and rolled her right foot shot into the net.

That signalled time to make changes for the team in blue, with Abbie Diskin entering the fray alongside another debutant – Becca Holden stepping up from the U18s to make her first senior appearance for Knowle. She was involved immediately too, putting in a couple of good challenges at left back and combining well with Abbotts to create a chance for Rolph. The Knowle forward was making up for lost time after her suspension last week and she completed her hat trick with another fine goal. Diskin nipped the ball off the toes of an attacker and passed to Barlow and she broke the line with a pass that Rolph latched onto to go one on one with the keeper again. This time she skipped to her left and tapped into the empty goal. Knowle had the wind in their sails now and soon had the ball in the net again; Rolph was the provider this time, she beat the full back then squared it across the box to White who finished well, but the linesman’s flag chalked it off for the third time in the game. Knowle couldn’t be denied however and did make it 0-6 soon after. Not for the first time they jumped all over a short Droitwich goal kick; Abbotts robbed the centre half and then slotted it past the onrushing keeper – her fourth goal in as many games against this opposition.

The last 15 minutes of the game proved to be a little frantic, with Droitwich pumping the ball forward at every opportunity and Knowle then hitting them on the break. Knowle were made to work for their clean sheet, the unfamiliar backline of Holden, Clarke, Betteridge and Diskin defending well to deny any clear opportunities and Smirthwaite cleaning up behind them. There was also still time for the team in blue to score their seventh; Gibson played a ball over the top; the keeper came out to try and clear but missed her kick and Rolph merrily ran past her to finish once again.

A comprehensive win for Knowle in a game where they executed their game plan extremely well and were in control for the majority of the match. Two excellent debuts put the icing on the cake and the team continue their 100% record in the league so far, sitting pretty at the top of the table. They will look to extend that run next week at home to Worcester City.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Smith, Clarke, Betteridge, Fleming, Abbotts, Gibson, Rolph, Holland, Barlow.

Subs: White (for Abbotts, 30), Holden (for Shaw, 60), Diskin (for Clarke, 60).

Knowle Well Beaten By Cadbury

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 12:59:09 GMT

5th November 2022 - Cadbury Athletic 3-1 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Bournville

This match kicked off 15 minutes late as the three officials were themselves late. It turned out to be a very tough match. Athletic were a team, all working for each other, Knowle a group of individuals. Only Reece Hewitt showed the energy, skill and determination required. He deserved better.

Within two minutes of the start Knowle were in front courtesy of an own goal by Athletic’s Shaw. It was to be the visitors only joy. Athletic knew far too much for the Robins. The visitors were bullied, and harassed to the extent that they were second best in every department.

All the goals came in the first half when Athletic were totally dominant. Jeson Dinanga scored twice and Bourn once.

In the second period, the home side were content to frustrate their visitors, which they did magnificently well.

It was a tetchy afternoon in many ways, but the Seeleys in the managerial seat at The Robin’s Nest will know that their side surrendered the mid-field and therefore the match very easily. They will expect better in coming matches.

Knowle: Johnson; McArdle; Seeley; Clarke; Cosgrove(Bailey); Ward (Mullen); Al-Masri (Walton); Jones; Corry, Hewitt; Morris (Sinton). Sub not used: Barrett.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Saturday 12th November: Cup Date

Saturday 19th November: Cup Date

Saturday 26th November: Knowle v Sutton United (League) KO 1400

Photographs (C) Gary Spooner

Hewitt's Brace Defeats Hampton

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 11:16:03 GMT

29th October 2022 - Knowle FC 2-0 Hampton FC

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech

Local Derby matches are always special, and often exciting. This one was both. Although there is real respect, not to say friendship, between the two clubs, there was no quarter given on the park.

The opening exchanges were fairly even, until The Robins pressed home their advantage. It was no surprise when Reece Hewitt beat Matt Alleley, in goal for the visitors, from eighteen yards with a peach of a shot. The ball crossed the goal-line right at the foot of the far post.

After the hour mark, Hampton dragged themselves into the match with a period of good play. They managed two shots on target and a couple of really dangerous attacks that came to nothing, Despite this, the Knowle camp will consider the first-half theirs.

For the re-start, Hampton made a change, but were soon plunged into great difficulty. Ash Maddocks launched a foolish and dangerous tackle on Charlie Morris. Referee Mr Kevin Carrol had no hesitation in brandishing the red card. There could be little complaint. The Robins fans sitting around me, all thought the Robins would cut lose and win the game with ease. It was not to be. Did Knowle sit back with the same thought in mind? Or did Hampton play better with ten men than they had with eleven?

Upon reflection, it was probably a bit of both. Certainly: the visitors had far more of the game in the last half hour, both territory and possession, than they had in the first-half. However, the Knowle goal was never really threatened in any way that was beyond their capacity to cope.

Reece Hewitt had not only scored the early goal, his work-rate in midfield was exceptional; for me, the Man of the Match. He crowned his glory with a late reward. Hampton were on the attack, to their credit, they never gave up and deep into “added time” were still pushing for a goal. It led to them conceding a second though. The Robins broke up the attack and sent a long ball right down the middle. Hewitt was on it in a flash. ‘Keeper Alleley came out and blocked the shot. To his consternation, the ball only re-bounded to Hewitt who sent it into the net. Hewitt was beside himself with glee, Alleley inconsolable.

OK, this game was not a classic. But it was always entertaining. And The Robins secured three well deserved, points.

Knowle FC:

Johnson; Rainey (Weeks); Staley (Barrett); McArdle; Cosgrove ©; Ward; Morris (Jones); G Seeley (Walton); Corry; Hewitt [15][91]; Gordon (Bailey)

___________________________________________________________________

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Sat 5th Nov – Cadbury Athletic v Knowle MFL D2 : KO 1400

Sat 19th Nov – Jet Blades (The Coventry Alliance: Premier) v Knowle Sat Vase R2 KO 1400. At: Camp Farm, Bedworth Road, Bulkington, CV12 9JA

FA Cup Adventure Ends

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 21:10:40 GMT

23rd October 2022 - Lye Town 6-0 Knowle LFC

Knowle’s FA Cup campaign came to an end as they were comprehensively beaten by Lye Town on Sunday.

The rain put paid to the original venue, but Lye were able to secure a 4G pitch to get the game on. Knowle were forced into making a few changes due to half term absentees, but were able to call partial retirees Julia Stanton and Sarah Moore alongside Abi Morris from the U18s squad to fill the bench. The Robins started the game brightly and were soon on the attack. Lucy Jones fed Jess Barlow who skipped past the full back and earned a corner, and Emma Shaw hit the bar straight from the cross. The Lye goalkeeper also did well to parry an effort from Bex Clarke round the post. It was somewhat against the run of play when Lye scored with their first shot of the game; the left winger made a decisive drive forward and crossed for her opposite wide player who was flying into the box unmarked. Katy Smirthwaite made a great save from her first effort but the rebound hit the forward in the chest and bounced over the line to give Lye the lead. The game then became end to end, with both teams getting forward well but not quite getting their final ball or finish right. Another Shaw corner was headed clear by Lye’s centre half, and Smirthwaite had to be quick off her line to close down a 1v1 and block the shot. Natalie Gibson pulled off a great bit of skill to turn her defender and go clean through, but after rounding the keeper the angle became too narrow and the goalie recovered to stick out a leg and deflect Gibson’s shot for a corner.

Throughout the half, Knowle had a succession of corners but couldn’t quite get on the end of one, until Gibson’s header was blocked on the line by the player on the post and bounced away off the underside of the bar. 38 minutes into the game, Lye earned their first corner and they punished Knowle’s failure to clear when the attacker looped an effort over Smirthwaite into the far corner. At 2-0, Knowle felt they were still in the game and Rolph had a great chance to pull one back when she latched onto Poppy Wheatstone’s through ball, but the defender recovered well to block. A killer blow came just before half time – a harsh free kick given on the edge of the penalty area, Knowle did not set up their wall correctly and the taker was able to pick out the bottom corner.

Knowle may well have felt the half time score line of 3-0 did not reflect the game so far, but as it turned out, the second half certainly belonged to Lye. They started on the front foot and squashed any hopes the away side had of getting back into the game with an early goal. It was the left wing/right wing combo that worked well again with the deep cross volleyed home unchallenged at the back post. On the rare occasion Knowle broke down Lye's backline, Jess Barlow’s attempt was saved by the keeper when on a rare occasion. The resulting corner came to nothing when Sam Smith got studs stuck in the turf and had to poke the ball out of play to get treatment. The game then became tetchy and Rolph was cautioned alongside a Lye player for some verbals and a scuffle on the hour mark. The ball pinballed around midfield for the next phase of the game, with the referee stopping play several times for pushes and pulls and neither side getting anywhere. Ten minutes after her first yellow, Rolph saw another one and the inevitable red for a tackle that may have won the ball, but was deemed to use excessive force.

Lye took full advantage of the extra player from then on in and kept Knowle at bay easily. Knowle changed shape to keep them out, but it left them with too much to do to get forward and support in possession. There was an element of luck about the home side’s fifth goal, Smirthwaite caught in two minds whether to catch or parry a speculative long range attempt, but the sixth was incisive. A one-two down that left side once again, the cut back to the onrushing midfielder who rifled her finish into the bottom corner. Knowle fought out the last minutes of the game, but could have no complaints about being beaten by a better side.

The FA Cup adventure ends there for another year then, thank you to everyone who came across to support the side and in particular, Claire and Freya who drove up from Essex to represent sponsors Agility Life Sciences and cheer on the team! Knowle will turn their attention to their League Cup campaign next week with a home tie against Droitwich, looking to go one better than last year’s semi final!

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Clarke, Gibson, Jones, Rolph, Wheatstone, Barlow.

Subs: Moore (for Wheatstone, 55), Stanton (for Betteridge, 70), Morris (for Jones, 70)

Jones & Corry Just Enough to Sink Sutton

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 17:00:30 GMT

22nd October 2022 - Knowle FC 2-0 Sutton Rangers

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech

It was an unusual Robins that took the Park for this cup fixture against Sutton Rangers of MFL Division Three. Injuries and unavailability reduced Clive and Matthew Seeley’s options. Yet they were enough to ease past the visitors. Ben Jones, Ash Weeks and Jacob Walton all started with new signings Lewis Gordon and Ramarlo Barrett on the Bench.

The opening exchanges were fairly even, but as the match progressed The Robins began to assert their authority. The Robins set up with Ash Weeks controlling everything in that vital position just ahead of the defenders. He fulfilled his task with aplomb. Ben Jones, enjoying his start benefited from really good work on the left. When the ball came to him, he still had much to do on the edge of the Penalty Area. He made space for himself and hit the net from eighteen yards. It was no more than the home side deserved.

With the Robins in control, they sent over nineteen crosses during the course of the match. Many were excellent but missed; for others there was a dearth of Robins in the area, still more were inaccurate. One expected the visitors to change tactics for the second period, but they didn’t. To their credit, they tried to play football, but the opposition was just too good.

Seven minutes after the re-start Nathan Corry took charge following a real old-fashioned goal-mouth scramble. The forward not only sorted it out but picked his spot to score and double the lead. On the hour mark, Knowle withdrew Ash Weeks, it resulted in the visitors coming into the game, yet without any real threat. Without Weeks, the Robins lost their shape, and struggled to get forward. No matter, they had done enough to make it into the Second Round.

Knowle FC:

Jeavons; McArdle; Stailey; Clarke (Barrett); Cosgrove ©; Weeks (Yovchev); Morris; Jones [13]; Corry [52]; George Seeley; Walton (Gordon). Sub not used: Matthew Seeley

___________________________________________________________________

Knowle FC are looking for a volunteer to look after the Kit.

Knowle FC are looking for a Physio for matchdays.

For either post contact the chairman; David Ratcliffe at david.karenratcliffe@gmail.com

___________________________________________________________________

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Sat 29th Oct - Knowle v Hampton MFL D2 :KO 1500

Sat 5th Nov – Cadbury Athletic v Knowle MFL D2 : KO 1400

Robins Overwhelm Olympic

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 11:38:49 GMT

15th October 2022 - PS Olympic 2-11 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from The Dell Stadium

On a fine Saturday afternoon, The Robins made the trip to The Dell in Brierley Hill for a Saturday Vase First Round match. The home of Duncan Edwards certainly suited them. Eleven goals, with six scorers, tells its own story.

Nathan Corry, having returned to The Robins, really enjoyed himself with five goals. At first, I thought one of his was an own goal, but discussion afterwards confirmed that it was infact his score.

Together with new boy Dennis Yovchev, Dylon Bennett ran the mid-field. Christian McArdle not only marshalled the defence but managed to score as well. The Robins were superior in every department. Olympic ran with enthusiasm but, were totally outclassed. Still: they never gave up and continued to try and play football. Although well beaten, they did manage a late goal as The Robins took their foot off the pedal.

The damage was done in a five- minute spell just prior to the break. Three goals scored in almost as many minutes, did the job.

For the record, as well as Christian McArdle and Nathan Corry, George Seeley scored one, Jack Mullen two, Dennis Yovchev and Myles Mason one each. Kieron Edwards and Callum Wyatt netted for PS.

At the end, Robins’ Joint Manager was philosophical; pleased with the result and the score-line obviously, but disappointed that so many chances were squandered and worried about a leg injury to Jack Mullen. It remains to be seen how serious this is.

Saturday 22nd October is another Cup match, this time in the Les James Cup. Sutton Rangers are the visitors to the Draintech Community Stadium, KO 1500.

Knowle: Johnson; Jones; Rainey; Clarke; McArdle [58]; Bennett (Walton); Morris; Seeley © [8]; Mullen [30 & 51](Mason [82]); Yovchev [31]; Corry [35p, 40, 48, 53, & 74]. Subs not used: Staley & Barrett.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Saturday 22nd October: Knowle v Sutton Rangers (Les James Cup) KO 1500

Saturday 29th October: Knowle v Hampton (League) KO 1500

Ladies Bring Back Three Points

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 14:02:48 GMT

16th October 2022 - Westfields 0-5 Knowle LFC

The long journey to Westfields on Sunday was well worth it for Knowle Ladies on Sunday as they returned with all three points and another clean sheet after a 0-5 win.

Knowle spent much of the first forty five minutes camped out in their opponents half, dominating the game from the whistle. Lucy Jones set down a marker early on, winning the ball from Westfields kick off and driving forward to put her team on the front foot. From the resulting throw in, Natalie Gibson set up Jess Holland but her shot was well saved by the Westfields keeper. Knowle were looking dangerous down the right side with Jess Barlow seeing plenty of the ball. Another incisive run from her won Knowle a corner after ten minutes, and Emma Shaw played in the perfect delivery for Sam Smith to head home and give her side the lead. Less than a minute later it was two; Knowle executed a great press and turned the ball over. Demi Rolph worked it to Gibson who squared a pass to Barlow and she took one touch before rifling her shot past the keeper from 25 yards out. The pressure kept coming from Knowle with Kate Fleming finding time and space in the middle of the park to pick her passes; one through ball found Rolph who hit her shot just over the bar. Knowle’s top scorer so far this season was soon in the action again however. Fleming won the header and Rolph picked up the second ball before beating the defender and slipping it to Gibson on the edge of the box. The gaffer showed her class by slaloming through two challenges into the box, riding the third late tackle to stay on her feet and finish well past the keeper. The away side looked hungry for more and nearly had a fourth when Maz Byrne planted a header wide from a corner. Holland nearly produced a goal of the season contender when Jones laid the ball into her with her back to goal in the box, she flicked it up and hit a volley on the spin that the keeper had to push wide. The away side also thought they’d earned a penalty when Rolph got her shot away in the area but was then clattered by the keeper, but had to settle for a corner.

Westfields did make a couple of brief forays into the Knowle half, Katy Smirthwaite being alert to come off her line and deal with a through ball with her feet, then Byrne heading away a dangerous cross for a corner which Smith cleared. It was only a matter of time before Knowle picked up their fourth – Fleming hit an effort from the edge of the box well and a terrific solo run from Rolph ended up with a shot just wide of the post. It eventually came after good work from Abbie Diskin and Barlow on the right side gave Knowle another corner. Shaw’s delivery was superb again and this time Byrne matched it with a cracking finish, hitting a volley that dipped over the keeper and into the net. There was just enough time in the half for Knowle to create one more chance; Abi Morris won the ball well on the halfway line and fed Bex Clarke. She slid in a pass to Holland, but the forward’s shot was well held by the keeper again.

The second half continued in much the same pattern with the Robins well on top, though they were guilty of missing too many chances to extend the score line as much as they possibly should have. Set pieces were always a huge threat for Knowle, with pinpoint delivery from both sides – not long after the break Smith hit the post with another header, this time from Gibson’s corner and Byrne blazed the rebound over the bar. Barlow’s cross also created havoc in the Westfields penalty area and it looked as though Holland would stab it home, but her attempt skewed off across the goal line and was hacked clear. Clarke was controlling the midfield zone and mopping up any clearances from the home side, and she played in Rolph out wide but the forward was adjudged to be offside. Rolph wasn’t to be denied though and did get her goal soon after. Barlow’s trickery beat the full back and she found Jones’s overlapping run; the right back’s cross was whipped into the back post where Rolph slotted it home to give Knowle a 0-5 lead.

Chances continued to come from the Robins – Byrne headed over the bar from Shaw’s corner and Barlow forced a good save from the hard working Westfields keeper. The home side tried to play on the break and did almost wriggle through to trouble Smirthwaite, but Smith and Clarke combined to snuff out the danger. Westfield’s left winger was a threat when she ran at the back line and she also set up a long range attempt that flew wide. The home side’s defence did well to block close range attempts from Holland and Rolph soon after. It looked as though Gibson was going to score number six after Barlow was tripped outside the box, but her free kick cannoned off the crossbar and Holland couldn’t quite react quick enough to finish the rebound.

Knowle won’t complain about settling for five though, and will take pride in the clean sheet once again. All thirteen players in the squad got good game time and performed well, including Morris who once again stepping up from the U18s to game valuable experience in adult football. Barlow was Knowle’s more influential player and duly earned the player of the match award, but a fine team performance once again and credit to Westfields who worked their socks off and never dropped their heads despite a difficult start to the season with injuries severely affecting their squad. Next up for Knowle is the FA Cup tie away at Lye Town next Sunday!

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Smith, Byrne, Jones, Clarke, Fleming, Gibson, Rolph, Holland, Barlow.

Subs: Morris (for Fleming, 30), Diskin (for Gibson, 30).

Rolph's Hat-Trick Beats Kingfisher

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 12:54:42 GMT

9th October 2022 - Kingfisher LFC 0-4 Knowle LFC

Knowle took to the field in buoyant mood after last weekend’s excitement, but it was not a case of after the Lord Mayor’s show – the Robins showed from the outset they were not only aware of the threat a good Kingfisher side posed, but also equal to it. Their positive attitude almost paid off in the first five minutes when a glorious chance fell to Jess Holland after good work by Demi Rolph squared her in, but her shot was straight at the keeper. Knowle continued to be creative around the penalty area, playing clever passes to set up opportunities but the Kingfisher defence worked hard to block shots and get tackles in. A succession of Knowle corners saw Morgan Betteridge deliver superb crosses but the Knowle attackers couldn’t quite get on the end of them.

The goal was coming however, and it was Knowle’s top scorer so far this season who notched again. Jess Barlow beat the full back out wide and fired in a great cross, Holland’s glancing header was deflected away from goal and Rolph was on hand to blast it past the keeper. Holland was in the thick of it again soon after when her header was cleared off the line by the Kingfisher defender. The home side also offered a threat in the air and came close with a header over the bar from a well delivered corner. Rolph’s next effort bounced agonisingly wide of the post after Bex Clarke teed her up, but it wasn’t long before Knowle did extend their lead. Betteridge’s delivery was on the money once again and this time Sam Smith got the run right and stabbed it home at the far post – a goal from the feet of the centre half is a collector’s item for sure!

Knowle were in the ascendency and it only took three minutes for them to score their third. The away side timed the press well with Emma Shaw and Holland forcing Kingfisher back towards their own goal before Holland pinched the ball and played it to Rolph. She cut inside and lashed her shot past the keeper for her second of the game. In the final ten minutes of the first half, Kingfisher won a couple more corners but Knowle cleared them well, and Katy Smirthwaite was alert to claim anything that came into the box by other means. Abi Morris and Abbie Diskin came on to make their competitive debuts and both acquitted themselves well at full back to keep Knowle on top.

The second half saw less chances for the Robins, but they were always in control of the game. Natalie Gibson forced a good save from the keeper early on and Betteridge fired a long range attempt over the bar after being played in by Barlow. Kingfisher created chances of their own; Smirthwaite coming out on top in a one on one and fielding a stinging long range drive. Rolph thought she’d scored her hattrick when Kate Fleming and Lucy Jones combined to win the ball and set her up, but the shot went just wide. Clarke also had an attempt from the edge of the area charged down. Smith and Maz Byrne at the back for Knowle were marshalling the defence well and making sure they restricted Kingfisher’s attempts as the game wore on.

With 79 minutes on the clock, Rolph finally picked up her hat-trick. Camile Abbotts won the ball in midfield and clipped her pass over the top of the Kingfisher defence where Rolph picked it up, turned the defender and placed her shot past the keeper. Luck was on Knowle and the young forward’s side - the linesman flagged for offside but the referee overruled him which did seem to be the wrong decision, but Rolph was able to celebrate the third goal that her performance deserved. This goal seemed to deflate Kingfisher after a staunch second half showing, and the final ten minutes was all Knowle. Morris charged through two defenders to create havoc but couldn’t quite find Jones with her cross, and the keeper held a long range shot from Fleming well. Knowle’s player of the match Betteridge had moved over to the left in the final stages and she could have scored the goal of the game late on, beating four defenders before letting fly, but the shot went wide. Gibson then preserved Knowle’s clean sheet with a thumping header to clear a late Kingfisher corner and give Knowle the 0-4 win.

Knowle were more than happy with the performance and the result; as proved by the impromptu changing room karaoke session after the game. They maintain their perfect start to the season, and preparations start for the trip to Westfields next Sunday.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw (Morris, 30), Smith, Byrne, Betteridge (Diskin, 30), Clarke, Fleming (Jones 45), Abbotts (Gibson 45), Rolph, Holland, Barlow.

Knowle Dent Rangers Perfect Home Start

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 12:45:33 GMT

8th October 2022 - Coventry Rangers 1-1 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Mitchell Avenue

For the second week running, The Robins were involved in the Match of the Day in MFL Division Two with 2nd playing 3rd. Rangers had played four home matches so far this season, winning all four. For the spectators, especially the neutrals, this was a real football match. The best MFL spectacle I have seen this season so far. Both sides were going for the win from start to finish. And, if there were less attempts on target than one would think, it was a real match in every sense of the word. The standard was far higher than the tag “Recreational” would suggest.

The Robins were well on top during a pulsating first forty-five minutes, and with Nathan Corry re-signing, goals were the priority. Yet although there was plenty of goal-mouth action, and rather a lot of ‘pinball’ in the Rangers Area, the only goal was a well taken Penalty by the impressive OWEN WARD four minutes from Half-Time. Ward and Bennett controlled the mid-field and provided Corry – Robins Man of the Match – with plenty of service. Yet for whatever reason more goals just would not come.

As with many matches this season, the Second-Half was a different kettle of fish altogether. It was fifty/fifty at best, with Rangers far more in the game. Consequently, Corry’s service dried up. Jack Mullen had arrived for the second period and his work-rate was phenomenal. At the back Lewis Cosgrove and company were solid until one lapse 13 minutes from time when Rangers cut them open like a can of sardines. Having been pulled out of shape, a wonderful cross from the right was beautifully glanced home by JORDAN POWELL to equalize the score.

The home side now smelt blood and went in search of the winner. Only a wonderful point-blank save by Craig Johnson and lovely last-ditch tackle from Captain Lewis Cosgrove saved the game, ending all square.

Talk in the Club House afterwards that a draw was a fair result, but truth to tell, and not for the first time this season, The Robins ought to have been out of sight by the break. Nevertheless, the match was an excellent advertisement form MFL Division two football, surely the highest standard outside the MFL Premier Division?

The Robins now have a two week break from League action. On Saturday 15th October they are away at PS Olympic of the West Midlands Regional League Division Two, in the Saturday Vase. While on Saturday 22nd October they entertain Sutton Rangers, of MFL D 3, in the Les James League Cup at The Draintech Community Stadium.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Rainey; Staley; McArdle; Cosgrove ©; Ward [p41] (Mason); Yasin Al Massry (Mullen); Bennett; Corry; Seeley (Jones); Hewitt. Subs not used: Weeks, and Walton.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Sat 15th Oct – PS Olympic 1st v Knowle FC: Sat Vase :KO 1500

At: The Dell Stadium, Bryce Road, Brierley Hill, DY5 4NE

Sat 22nd Oct – Knowle FC v Sutton Rangers: Les James Cup :KO 1500

Photos courtesy of Peter Ray

Last Gasp Goal Sends Knowle Through!

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 16:32:34 GMT

2nd October 2022 - Knowle LFC 3-2 Coundon Court

There’s something about FA Cup football and Knowle Ladies that produces drama, and this season’s second qualifying round was no different! The game was a superb advert for the competition with two good teams giving everything they had to go through. Cheered on by a bumper crowd of over 100, and their lucky mascots the U8 Bees, it was Knowle who prevailed.

The home side flew out the blocks at the start of the game playing with high energy that pushed Coundon onto the back foot. Demi Rolph tested the keeper with a dipping shot that she palmed over the bar well, and Bex Clarke hit an attempt just wide from the edge of the box. There was a lengthy stoppage for an early injury to a Coundon player, but that didn’t disrupt Knowle’s momentum and they went ahead on the 15 minute mark. Jess Barlow was tripped up outside the box, and Emma Shaw swung the free kick past everyone in the box and into the far corner of the net. Knowle should really have doubled their lead when Kate Fleming played in Rolph down the left wing. She held up play as long as she could waiting for support, then squared the ball across the six yard line but nobody was able to get there with the goal gaping.

Coundon were struggling to make use of possession but did venture forward with a dangerous attack that saw the ball fly into Knowle’s six yard box; Katy Smirthwaite stuck out a hand to deflect it away from goal and Maz Byrne hacked it clear. Knowle then doubled their lead; Rolph curling in a wonderful effort from out wide that bamboozled the keeper. Coundon looked shell shocked and perhaps Knowle should have put the game out of sight at this point. Jess Holland broke free into the box but the defender just about got a foot in to block her effort and the away side’s keeper made another good save when a corner dropped to the young forward.

Coundon’s long throws were a dangerous weapon and they got back into the game when Knowle got sucked in and misjudged the bouncing ball. The forward picked up the loose ball and fired a stunning finish into the top corner from just outside the box. This galvanised Coundon and it became a far more even game during the last 15minutes of the first half with both sides getting forward well. Knowle’s defence stood firm however, blocking shots and crosses to protect Smithwaite in goal and they also were first to any set piece thrown into the box. At the other end, Rolph thundered a shot against the cross bar with nobody able to reach the rebound and Morgan Betteridge’s effort bounced just wide of the post. The sides went in 2-1 at the break after a high octane 45minutes of football.

The second half followed in a similar pattern. Knowle were on top for the early stages and it looked as though another goal was coming for them. Coundon defended extremely well however, getting across to cover and block whenever a Knowle forward found space in the penalty area. Natalie Gibson fired over the bar after a well worked Knowle attack and Byrne couldn’t quite direct a header on goal following Betteridge’s corner.

As the half wore on, Coundon began to push forward more, knowing they needed a goal. They gathered momentum and started to cause issues, with the wide players winning a succession of corners. Knowle cleared well however, Fleming and Sam Smith winning headers whenever the crosser found the penalty box. A fast attack from one such clearance led to another Knowle chance; Clarke picked up Smith’s header and bombed forward before releasing Rolph, but she was denied by another good save. Lucy Jones also found herself with a shooting opportunity but the defender got back to make a challenges.

Play bounced from end to end, but it was Coundon who eventually put the ball in the net. A dangerous cross was headed back by a stretching Holland; Smirthwaite gathered but the resulting collision with the forward saw the ball pop out and over the line for a corner. Knowle got their marking wrong leaving the attacker with a free header and she made no mistake; 2-2 with five minutes left. It looked as though the game may head to penalties, but Knowle had other ideas. In the 93rd minute, Gibson played a superb ball from a quick free kick deep inside the Knowle half, the Coundon midfielder got a slight touch that split the defence and sent Rolph in on goal. She rounded the keeper to gleefully smash the ball into the net and cue wild celebrations on the pitch and in the stands. There was however just enough time for Coundon to have one last chance; the forward beat the offside trap but fired her shot against the bar and into Smirthwaite’s grateful hands – it turned out to be the last kick of the game.

A thrilling end to an excellent match; both sides played their part as did all the supporters. Seeing so many of the junior teams and their families at the ground was a great experience for everyone involved with the club. Best wishes to Coundon in the rest of their Premier Division campaign this season, meanwhile Knowle go into the hat for the Third Qualifying Round and await to see who they face next!

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw (Jones, 70), Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Clarke, Fleming, Gibson, Rolph, Holland, Barlow.

Unused subs: Abbotts, Diskin, Moore.

Knowle Too Good For Boldmere

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 14:18:42 GMT

1st October 2022 - Knowle FC 2-0 Boldmere S&S

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground

Knowle have done work on the pitch at Hampton Road, so it was much improved for this match. The Robins did just enough to take all three points in a match that was - well disappointing. Neither side shone, with Boldmere offering little up front, while The Robins continued to squander chances.

Although on top for the whole match, Knowle found it difficult to pierce the spirited defence put up by the visitors. Although concentrating on keeping The Robins at bay, it was a surprise that the visitors withdrew their two most creative players in Max Turner and Kasen Peace.

This match was short on quality. There was none of the intensity and quality shown at Kenilworth last Saturday. Turgid is the word that comes to mind.

Nonetheless, the result was far more important than the performance. Successful sides know how to gain points ugly as well as with beauty.

It took the best part of half an hour for Knowle to get the ball into the net. A great pass to OWEN WARD allowed the diminutive mid-fielder to score via the post from eighteen yards. There were other chances, Dylon Bennet shaved the bar from distance, and a good move by Walton to Mullen whose trap, turn and shot deserved better than the save from Denton in the visitor’s goal.

The second half was no better and even got worse when Dylon Bennett’s Penalty Shot was easy for the ‘Goalkeeper to save. Reece Hewitt had a chance, but his touch was too week to cause real damage. With twenty minutes to go, Dylon Bennett won the ball wide on the right passed on to George Seeley, who in turn fed REECE HEWITT to double the score. It was enough, although George Seeley’s powerful shot needed to be paired for a Corner and the same player blasted over when presented with an opportunity.

The three points put Knowle in second place to Sutton United in the Division Two Table, on goal difference. However, the tough matches come thick and fast in this Division where the sides in the top half would not disgrace themselves in Division One. Next Saturday being a case in point. Where The Robins are away at AFC Coventry Rangers, themselves in a close third spot.

Knowle FC:

Craig Johnson; Lewis Rainey (Ben Jones); Reece Staley; Christian McArdle; Lewis Cosgrove ©; Owen Ward [26]; George Seeley; Dylon Bennett; Jack Mullen (Myles Mason); Reece Hewitt [70]; Jacob Walton (Ash Weeks) Subs not used: Lewis Clarke & Yasin Al-Massry.

___________________________________________________________________-

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Sat 8th Oct – AFC Coventry Rangers v Knowle MFL D2 : KO 1500

At: Coventry Technical Rugby Football Club, Mitchell Avenue, Coventry

CV4 8DY

Sat 15th Oct – PS Olympic 1st v Knowle FC: Sat Vase :KO 1500

Ladies Make It Three From Three

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 15:38:41 GMT

25th September 2022 - Knowle LFC 1-0 Sedgley & Gornal

Towards the end of last season, these two sides played out three tight games in league and cup; this season’s first clash proved no different. Knowle had to battle hard to secure the 1-0 win and there were certainly periods in the game where it looked unlikely they would hold on.

Sedgley & Gornal were quick out the blocks and created the first opportunity of the game with a ball over the top that caught Knowle cold, but Maz Byrne was able to get back and snuff out the danger. Knowle responded well with an attack of their own; Celina Smallwood pushed the ball down the line for Demi Rolph to drive at goal and it took a good block from the defender to divert her attempt. From the resulting corner, Sam Smith’s header went over the bar. Knowle were working the ball well through midfield, switching the attack from side to side. Morgan Betteridge broke forward well from full back to play in some dangerous crosses, but the away side’s defence were able to clear.

Sedgley were thwarted again by Byrne when she glanced a header away just in front of the attacker with the goal gaping after the winger had wriggled clear down Knowle’s left side. That was followed by a good period of Knowle pressure though. Firstly Jess Holland’s powerful shot was well saved, then Natalie Gibson hit an attempt wide. Bex Clarke was instrumental in midfield throughout the game, winning plenty of possession and mopping up loose balls before sending Knowle on the attack again. It was from that type of play that she created the home side’s goal; her clipped forward pass set Jess Barlow free and she rocketed her finish past the keeper. Sarah Moore was subbed onto the field after 30minutes and it looked as though she may make an immediate impact when she beat her defender to open up a chance, but she was off balance and the keeper smothered her shot. The teams went in with that single goal separating them at halftime, though Knowle had the best of the play and opportunities to score.

The second half was a different affair – Sedgley were undoubtedly the better side. Knowle spent a lot of time clearing their lines and defending their goal. Katy Smirthwaite’s handling was impeccable on the day and she started the half by dealing with two long range attempts. Knowle’s best chance of the half came when Rolph skipped through the defence but the keeper was equal to her effort and the rebound that fell to Moore. The away side should really have equalised when a long free kick found a way through to the unmarked centre half on the back post; her touch was good but the shot was straight at Smirthwaite. Knowle couldn’t quite keep the ball long enough to get up the pitch, and had to rely on an excellent block by Camile Abbotts to stay in front. Sedgley also hit the bar with a great shot after the midfielder had bypassed two challenges to find herself on the edge of the box. As the half wore on, a player from each side went in the book – the Sedgley forward for an unnecessary shove on Smirthwaite and Moore for kicking the ball away after being called offside. Time ran out for Sedgley in the end and Knowle stood firm to hold onto their lead and secure the 1-0 win.

Three wins from three for Knowle then, but this one they really had to work for. Next week they play in the FA Cup, at home to Coundon Court – another tricky game for the Robins, but one they will be motivated for!

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Smallwood (Shaw, 30), Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Clarke, Abbotts (Moore, 30), Gibson, Rolph, Holland, Barlow.

Robins Held By Sporting

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 10:13:20 GMT

24th September 2022 - Kenilworth Sporting 2-2 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Gypsy Lane

This was the Match of the Day in Division Two of the MFL, with second playing third. Right from the off, The Robins took control of the game. For the first half they were in control. On ten minutes, OWEN WARD converted a free kick with a magnificent effort from twenty-three yards that left George Woodward between the Sporting sticks, no chance.

Sporting did respond and caused the Robins’ defence into desperate defending. Then a long ball from the back send Myles Mason clear, but he fluffed his lines, and the chance was gone. A defensive mistake on the Robins’ left allowed CHRIS JONES to tap home after a shot was parried by Reiss Jeavons. It was a goal against the run of play and a gift.

More chances came and went for Knowle, before LEWIS COSGROVE converted a cross from the right after some pinball in the Area.

Knowle were by far the better side in the first forty-five minutes, and ought to have been more goals to the good with six clear-cut opportunities. Would they rue those missed chances? Well, as it turned out, they would.

Sporting could not be as poor In the second-half, and they did turn on the gas after the break. The decisive moment of the game came on fifty-seven minutes. A free-kick for handball had been awarded to the Home Side wide on their left when the ball appeared to ricochet from the defender’s knee. From the free lick the ball was sent into the Robins’ Area where Sam Delaney smashed the ball forwards, only for it to hit Lewis Clarke’s arm which appeared to be across his chest as he took evasive action: he being no more than a couple of feet from Delaney. Referee Mason had no hesitation in awarding the Penalty, as the home players appealed. The Knowle players were mystified. JASON EVANS made no mistake from twelve yards.

The penalty knocked Knowle back and they took a few minutes to get back into gear. Yet Myles Mason and Jacob William Walton had clear cut chances that went begging, and for Sporting, Delaney headed and inch wide from four yards.

For the neutral, it was a great game to watch. Not for the Knowle bench or their travelling support. They were to rue those missed chances. A conversion ratio of 2/10 in comparison of Sporting’s 2/4 tell sits own tale. And, after the game, much discussion about the Penalty award.

Knowle FC: Jeavons; Rainey (McArdle); Staley; Clarke; Cosgrove © [28]; Ward [10] (Jones); Yasin Al Massry; Bennett (Seeley); Mullen; Hewwitt; Mason (William Walton); Sub not used: Weeks.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Sat 1st Oct – Knowle FC v Boldmere S & S F MFL D2 : KO 1500

Sat 8th Oct – Coventry Rangers v Knowle MFL D2 : KO 1500

Photos courtesy of Peter Ray

Five Star Show From Ladies Team

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 12:36:37 GMT

4th September 2022 - Knowle LFC 5-0 Rugby Town

Knowle Ladies started their season with a bang, beating Rugby Town 5-0 thanks to a dominant performance that set out their intentions for the league campaign ahead.

Knowle set the tone straight from kick off; Jess Barlow & Jess Holland racing in and pressing the Rugby players into giving away a throw in deep in their own territory. It was very much one way traffic from that point, with the Robins on the front foot and attacking at will. The first clear chance of the game came from a corner; Celina Smallwood floated the ball in but Bex Clarke couldn’t quite get the right connection at the back post. Demi Rolph was next to go close, firing a shot just over the bar after skipping past her defender. Rugby’s goalkeeper showed good handling by collecting a number of long range attempts and crosses to thwart Knowle. She also made an excellent save when Holland was played in by Rolph.

Full back Morgan Betteridge was causing problems by running from deep to join the attack, the link up with Clarke gave Knowle the overload on several occasions. The home side went particularly close when Betteridge’s cross was controlled by Holland to lay off to Gibson, but her shot screwed just wide of the post. Rugby then made a brief foray into the Knowle half, hitting a speculative shot which Katy Smirthwaite held easily and launched another Knowle attack with a quick throw out. Soon after, Knowle did finally take a deserved lead; Kate Fleming won the ball well on the halfway line and played it to Clarke, she found Rolph out wide and the young forward beat two defenders before slotting a shot past the keeper to put her side 1-0 up. The away side continued to defend resolutely, blocking Clarke’s attempt and making a last ditch tackle to thwart Barlow after Camile Abbotts had picked her out perfectly.

Knowle thought they had extended their lead when Rolph again raced clear – the keeper saved her shot well and then somehow scrambled to block Holland’s attempt from the rebound too. This left Rolph free to lash home, but she was adjudged to have been standing offside when Holland hit her shot. Gibson then flicked a clever pass to Holland whose attempt was deflected wide. From the resulting corner however, Smallwood crossed to the front post and Sam Smith was on hand to thump a header past the keeper. The first half ended with more one way traffic towards the Rugby goal, but the team in blue kept Knowle at bay and the Robins were perhaps guilty of shooting when a pass was the better option at times.

The second half continued in much the same vein as the first. Maz Byrne set up Knowle’s first attack by striding into midfield and playing in Clarke out wide, but Rolph was unable to volley home at the back post. Knowle then had another goal disallowed for offside following some top class build up play between Clarke, Barlow and Holland. The third goal came from quality work out wide from Rolph; she was unplayable for large periods of the game and when she beat the full back again with her skill and pace, it spelled danger for Rugby. Rolph drew the centre half in to beat her too, then laid the ball across for Gibson to take a touch and rifle it low and hard into the net leaving the keeper with no chance.

Rugby continued to work hard, but Knowle’s enthusiasm and energy out of possession caught them out on a number of occasions, not least when Holland won the ball back immediately after kick off to push Knowle forward again. The away side did have an excellent chance to pull one back however, when the ball squirmed under a Knowle defender’s foot to let the striker in on goal, but Smirthwaite was alert despite having little to do prior to this and raced out to block the shot.

From then on, it was all Knowle. Abbotts' shot was sneaking in before a defender got a toe on it, and Rolph sent an overhead kick just wide. Knowle’s fourth was as result of good play between Holland and Rolph, they combined to roll the ball across the six yard line and Betteridge was on hand to score. There was plenty of time left in the game and Knowle produced a terrific move which ended with Clarke squaring for Holland to finish, but the flag went up again unfortunately for the Robins. Rolph was the provider once again for the final goal of the day, turning on a sixpence to sucker her defender then pulling the ball back for Gibson to curl a shot from just inside the box well beyond the dive of the keeper.

A fine win for Knowle who looked a side hungry to do well this season and produced an energetic and classy performance. They now have a week off, before returning to action away at Westfields on 18th September.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Smallwood, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Fleming, Clarke, Gibson, Rolph, Holland, Barlow. Subs: Abbotts (Gibson, 30), Stanton (Betteridge, 30).

Men's First Team Squeeze Past Fairfield Villa

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 12:20:57 GMT

3rd September 2022 - Knowle FC 2-1 Fairfield Villa

Two well matched sides competed in this game. So well matched, in fact, that for long periods they just cancelled each other out. Fairfield Villa are a good side who prefer the passing game, but like The Robins in this match, so many easy, simple passes went astray. It was a match littered with simple mistakes. Mid-field and defences were well on top to the extent that we saw just three – yes 3 – shots on target in the whole game, each one resulted in a goal, with one a penalty.

Having said that, it was compelling to watch. There were good footballers on display on both sides, and one feels that this is the standard of MFL Division Two football now. It took decisive action to prise open these defences. Two minutes into the time Referee Jones added on at the end of the First-Half, The Robins were awarded a Penalty. There were no complaints from the visitors, and DYLON BENNETT made no mistake from twelve yards.

The Second Half followed a pattern similar to that of the First. That is until CONNOR DOYLE unleashed a fierce effort from all of twenty-five yards. It defeated Craig Johnson between The Robins posts all ends up. Both sides had ‘goals’ chalked off for off-side, as they both went for the win. Knowle were living dangerously, allowing Villa to play in the their half of the Park, and even in The Robins' area. Yet they were kept at bay.

As we neared the end, players on both sides suffered bouts of cramp. George Seeley had to be Substituted, and Callum Martin in the Villa goal needed prolonged treatment. He carried on, but was clearly not one hundred percent. It was the factor that led to Knowle’s winning goal.

A cross from the left resulted in some pin-ball in the Villa six yard area, Martin fumbled, and his legs just would not carry him to retrieve the ball. JACK MULLINS was on hand to tap the ball home and secure the three points for the Robins. There was still time for Fairfield Villa to force a Corner which was criminally wasted. Mullens could – should(?) - have had a second when put through the middle, but shot wide.

It was all over. The Robins had indeed ‘squeezed’ past Fairfield Villa. As for the visitors, for the second week in a row they ended with just nine players on the Park. Last Monday they had two sent off, in this match Fitzgerald saw red for two yellows, and Doyle was sent to the Sin-Bin four minutes into added time. It was just not their day.

Knowle FC:

Craig Johnson; Lewis Rainey; Reece Staley; Lewis Clarke; Lewis Cosgrove ©; Joe Sinton (Ash Weeks); Dylon Bennett [45+2 P]; Owen Ward (Jack Mullens [85]); Reece Hewitt; George Seeley (Ben Jones); Charlie Morris (Yasin Al-Massry) Sub not used: Christian McArdle.

___________________________________________________________________-

Forthcoming Fixtures:

SAT 10th SEPT 2022: KO 1500: Boldmere S & S F AWAY

SAT 17th SEPT 2022: KO 1500: v Alcester Town HOME

Robins Punish Lacklustre Spartak

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 11:21:44 GMT

29th August 2022 - Barnt Green Spartak 0-4 Knowle FC

Bank Holiday Monday still serves up football in the Midland Football League, even if the Premier and Football Leagues have abandoned it. It must however, be said, that these two sides were not really a match. The Robins were superior in every respect, acquitting themselves rather well on a difficult pitch.

Depleted by injuries and unavailability, the Robins Joint Managerial Team chose to play without an experienced front-runner. Nevertheless, they were far too good for the home side who managed just one attempt on goal in the whole match. In possession and territory, it must have worked out at 80% to 20% in the Robins’ favour. Four goals was the minimum result given the chances that went astray and the chances that were thrown away. This match could easily have ended with a double digit score.

Inside ten minutes, OWEN WARD latched on to a cross from the left. He trapped the ball, sized up his chance, and shot into the net. With the visiting supporters waiting for the goal fest, we reached the break without any more scoring. Considering the amount of time Knowle spent in the Spartak half of the park, this was remarkable. Yet it was due to the Robins inability to convert chances into goals.

The Robins back four were surplus to requirements for most of the match, and it was no surprise when Lewis Cosgrove was sacrificed for Ash Weeks. The substitute played in front of a back three, breaking up what little Spartak had to offer, and stimulating his own mid-field and front runners. Just on the hour mark LEWIS CLARKE doubled the lead, heading home a Ward corner. Dylon Bennett was having a superb game, he crowned it with a wonderful goal. The move involved interplay between Charlie Morris, and George Seeley. BENNETT saw his chance and ran – well I say ran – his legs just ate up the yards, as he raced from mid-field to connect with the ball in the Area to score. It was a goal to cap any performance.

Late on, a poor clearance by Spartak fell to Zak Parsons, he fed CHARLIE MORRIS who made no mistake from inside the area.

The game ended on a sour note. Zak Parsons picked up the ball in the Spartak half, and made progress towards the goal, His shirt was pulled by a Spartak player, at least three times. Finally; the Robin reacted. A melee involving all the players on the park followed. When all was sorted out, a Yellow Card shown to Parsons and a Free Kick to Spartak.

Within seconds, the final whistle was blown. It was three well deserved points for Knowle.

Knowle FC: Johnson; Rainey; Staley; Clarke [58]; Cosgrove (Weeks); Sinton; Bennett [66]; Ward [9]; Reynolds-Wilkins (Parsons); Seeley (Siddique); Morris [86]. Sub not used: Ben Jones.

Forthcoming Fixtures:

Sat 3rd Sept 22 v Fairfield Villa KO 1500

Sat 10th Sept 22 v Boldmere S & S F AWAY KO 1500

Knowle Held To Draw at Inkberrow

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 11:16:50 GMT

27th August 2022 - Inkberrow 1-1 Knowle FC

Knowle started brightly with Charlie Morris testing the home keeper, Max Court in the first minute. Court then got down well to his left to turn an Owen Ward free kick round the post. Sadly the corner came to nothing and this was a theme throughout the half with Knowle winning 6 corners in total with both Lewis Clarke and Lewis Cosgrove winning headers but not testing Court in the home goal.

Reece Hewitt shot wide from 15 yards and had an effort from 8 yards blocked before in the 27th minute George Seeley split the home defence with a through ball to Hewitt who spun on the edge of the box and shot across Court into the bottom left corner to give Knowle a deserved lead.

Inkberrow showed little going forward as Knowle continued to pin them back into their own half. Indeed their only efforts on goal during the half were a speculative long range effort that went harmlessly into the arms of Ben Maxwell and a sliced effort from 22 yards that went well wide. Clarke's header from and Ward free kick was well saved. Then in the closing minutes of the half Charlie Morris broke clear and passed on to Hewitt. The oncoming Court blocked his first effort and then was grateful to see Hewitt's follow up effort on the spin go wide of the right hand upright.

There was concern amongst Knowle supporters that they would regret not turning their first half dominance into a bigger lead and sure enough the home team came out re-energised at the start of the second half and won a penalty when Clarke felled their striker as he was about to shoot. Jay Higgins-Puglsey sent Maxwell the wrong way to convert and level the scores. This encouraged the home team further. The game became more scrappy with neither side creating many clear cut chances. Inkberrow were limited to 2 efforts, one straight at Maxwell and the other high and wide from distance. Knowle won a further six corners but without getting a clean effort on goal. Dylon Bennett shot wide from 22 yards and also headed a Zak Parsons cross wide from 8 yards before Hewitt shot straight at Court as Knowle struggled to restore their lead.

Knowle remain unbeaten but are struggling to convert possession into clear cut chances and goals. Hopefully they can look to put that right against Barnt Green on Bank Holiday Monday.

Robins Defeat Swifts

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 21:23:15 GMT

13th August 2022 - Knowle FC 2-0 Bolehall Swifts

Ronald Crane reports from the Draintech Community Ground

This was an absorbing game of football, with everyone on the park giving of their best: With little to chose between The Robins and The Swifts, apart – of course – from the two goals. They were scores of the highest calibre.

The first came just past the half hour mark when a really good run on the Robins’ left resulted in a wonderful centre, HAMZA SIDDIQUE’S trap, turn and shot was too good for the Swifts defence. It was a goal that would grace any match. Up to that point, there had been little to chose between the two sides. Swifts are much altered from last term and will take points from many sides in this season’s Division Two. They work hard, off and on the ball, and are swift (no pun intended) of foot.

For most of this match defences and the mid-field were dominant. Swifts did not have many chances in front of goal, but when they did, Robins’ custodian Ben Maxwell was up to the challenge. He was ably assisted by his defence and on one occasion, the hard-working Christian McArdle was on hand to clear the ball from the goal-line. At the other end, it was the Robins who had the most chances, thwarted by an efficient defence, and – it has to be said – some wayward shooting. The temperature was up in the low thirties, and Referee Carroll was generous with much needed water breaks.

As the second half proceeded towards the ninety minutes, one was left wondering how Jack Mullens did not score. He and Reece Hewitt were a real thorns in the Swifts’ defence. The Robins’ back men had their work cut out too, with Jordan Lewis a real handful. Towards the close this match became very tight indeed, but the result was secured when Lewis Miller was adjudged to have committed a foul some nineteen yards out and just right of centre. Up stepped OWEN WARD. His kick was superb. There are few Goalkeepers who would have stopped it. The hapless Miller was immediately substituted.

The Swifts did not concede defeat and pressed forward with intent. Omatay tried his luck from distance, and the Robins’ bench responded by withdrawing Jack Mullins in favour of the defensive qualities of Ash Weeks. Knowle saw out the match and managed the final minutes well.

Knowle FC:

Ben Maxwell; Lewis Rainey; Reece Staley; Lewis Clarke;; Christian McArdle; Owen Ward [77]; Hamza Siddique [33] (Zak Parsons); George Seeley (Lewis Cosgrove); Jack Mullen (Ash Weeks); Reeve Hewitt ©; Charlie Morris (Jack Walton). Sub not used: Ben Jones.

___________________________________________________________________-

Forthcoming Fixtures:

SAT 20 AUG 2022: KO 15:00: Knowle -v- Earlswood Town at The ROBINS NEST

SAT 27 AUG 2022: KO 15:00: Inkberrow -v- Knowle at SANDS ROAD, Inkberrow

MON 29 AUG 2022: KO 15:00: Barnt Green Spartak -v- Knowle at EARLSWOOD FC (THE PAVILIONS)

A Point gained or two Points lost?

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 21:19:29 GMT

6th August 2022 - Redditch Borough 1-1 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Cherry Tree Walk.

I suspect our headline is the question being asked by both Managers after this match. When the dust has settled, it will, I am sure, be Clive Seeley who is the most satisfied.

Knowle were straight out of the blocks and a long ball through the centre found Charlie Morris off-side, but trotting back and inactive, whilst George Seeley raced through to score with ease. The Robin was incredulous when he discovered that he had been ruled off-side. It was a decision that was still being talked about long after the final whistle.

However, the visitors were by far the better side for the first half hour, and ought to have had the match sown up by then. Although there were some nasty challenges, Knowle were playing all the football, and mostly in their opponent’s half of the pitch. Mullen, Seeley and Hewitt all had chances that went begging. The mid-field was controlled by the men in red.

As we neared the break the home side dragged themselves into the game and a defensive error by Knowle from a Corner, allowed Borough a free header. It was wide, but it was also a warning for The Robins. Just prior to the break Redditch Borough had a really good chance, when following a great move the final shot was wide. It was clear that The Robins would have to re-take control of the mid-field and sharpen up their shooting. Nine attempts for no goals is just not good enough. Mind you The Robins did have the ball in the net twice in the First Half; the George Seeley effort and another that Referee Singh chalked off for handball.

The Robins started the Second Half as they had the first; being well on top and pressing their hosts back. Shots were saved and Corners came and went. They had the ball in the net for a third time only for this to be ruled off-side. There were some pointed remarks from the visiting supporters and clear unhappiness on the bench. Yet the match remained scoreless.

Borough made a couple of substitutions and within a minute they paid off. BROOKLYN SMITH tapped home from close range following a real melee after a Redditch Corner. The home side began to play now and show what they were made off. Every Knowle error was pounced upon. Every fifty-fifty ball now went to the men in blue. Borough sensed the prize was theirs and did everything to take advantage.

Gradually Knowle regained their composure and went in search of the equalizer. The challenges were even tougher as the game drew to a conclusion. Shots rained in upon the home custodian, who kept them out with the help of his defence and a number of off-side decisions: Six in the Second Half alone. But Knowle kept going. The clock ticked past the ninety-minute mark, and the final whistle was expected at any second. Two minutes into added time LEWIS CLARKE loop ed a header into the net at the far post. The visiting supporters and the Knowle bench were delirious, not to mention the scorer!

There was just time to re-start the match and it was all over. Truth to tell, Knowle were the better side for most of the match, and ought to have had it sown up inside the first half hour. But Redditch Borough took their chance and knew how to frustrate Knowle. Nevertheless: the motto, never give up until the final whistle, proved to be the one that enabled Knowle to go home with a point. I suspect that it was the men in red who were more satisfied with the point than the men in blue.

Knowle FC:

Maxwell; Hamza Siddique (Jacob Walter 64); Lewis Rainey; Lewis Clarke [90+2]; Christian McArdle; Owen Ward; Charlie Morris; Dylon Bennett; Reece Hewitt ©; George Seeley; Jack Mullen. Subs not used: Ash Weeks; Ben Jones; Matt Bailey; & Craig Johnson.

Knowle Control Cup Tie

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 09:30:49 GMT

3rd April 2022 - Knowle Ladies 2-0 Sedgley & Gornal United

They say familiarity breeds contempt, but there was a healthy amount of respect on show at Hampton Road when Knowle Ladies played Sedgley & Gornal United for the third time in four weeks. After two exciting games, both sides were well aware of the qualities their opponents possess. United tweaked their tactics somewhat to deal with Knowle’s attackers, and the home side were aware they needed to dominate the midfield battle.

Knowle started the game with a couple of chances; Ebony Harris not quite able to direct her header from Michelle McCormack’s corner, then Alice Belcher shooting over the bar after great work by Demi Rolph on the right to set her up. Much of the first period was played out in the Sedgley & Gornal half, with the Knowle defenders able to pick off the away side’s sporadic attacks relatively comfortably. The front three for Knowle were putting plenty of pressure on Sedgley & Gornal back line and winning the ball high up the pitch, and that created long range attempts for McCormack and Holland, but the keeper palmed them away. Knowle couldn’t quite find the right final ball or finishing touch in that first half. The pick of the attempts was from Rolph; she showed fabulous skill to control a cross and hit a volley that flew inches wide of the post. No score at half time then, but Knowle felt they were well in control of the game.

It didn’t take too long for Knowle to get their reward for that control when they broke the deadlock four minutes into the second period. The away side’s keeper made a good save to push away McCormack’s effort, but from the resulting corner, the midfielder crossed in a perfect ball for Belcher to rise high and bury her header into the net. The goal gave Knowle the breathing space they needed, and they created more clear cut chances in the second half. Camile Abbotts’ shot was flying into the corner of the net before a defender managed to block it, and McCormack worked the keeper yet again with a free kick. A lovely passing move between Belcher and Poppy Wheatstone gave Rolph the chance to skip round the defender, but her shot rose just over the bar with only the keeper to beat. As the game wore on, it became rather disjointed with both sides giving away several fouls that broke down play and slowed the tempo. It looked as though that single goal would be enough to win it for Knowle, but in the 90th minute, Knowle thwarted a Sedgley attack and played forward on the counter. Jess Barlow fed Rolph, she outfoxed the first defender with a smart turn on the halfway line and outpaced everyone to cut round the last recovering runner before smashing her finish into the net. There was still time for late drama though; a Sedgley free kick bounced off Katy Smirthwaite in goal and was stabbed home by the right winger, but she was adjudged to have been offside when the ball was played in.

Plenty of reasons to celebrate after the final whistle – Alice Belcher and Demi Rolph both hitting their 20th goal of the season and becoming the first KLFC players to do so since 2010, the team’s 10th clean sheet of the season, Jess Holland's player of the match performance and a third victory in a row. Most importantly though, the 2-0 win sends Knowle through to the semi-finals of the league cup, where they will face Solihull Sporting…another side they have had tough battles with this season!

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Keen, Smith, Byrne, Holland, Belcher, Fleming, McCormack, Harris, Rolph, Barlow.

Subs: Shaw (for Keen, 30), Bamber (for Harris, 30), Abbotts (for Barlow, 45), Wheatstone (for Fleming, 45)

A Tense Affair Results in Stalemate

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 09:16:44 GMT

2nd April 2022 - Boldmere Falcons 0-0 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from the Boldmere Sports & Social, Sutton Coldfield

A real tense match, played, in the first half at least, with a biting cold wind. There was much at stake for both sides. Boldmere fighting to avoid relegation; Knowle keeping pressure on second placed Coton Green. In the end they cancelled each other out.

Boldmere worked extremely hard for their point, and maybe Knowle work just too hard. Certainly, the visitors were tense and nervous. A rock-hard pitch was not conducive to following football, Knowle never got their passing game going. Relying on the long ball, often itself over hit, they got no joy from a determined and staunch home defence. In the first half, The Robins had most possession, yet the home side were the most dangerous. Both teams squandered chances, consequently there were just four – yes 4 – chances on target in the whole ninety minutes, and all fell to Knowle.

As we drank our tea and half time, the talk was all that Knowle could not be as bad in the second period. It was true, they weren’t! Yet could only manage one short on target. Chances were missed from inside the six-yard box. No goals: a poor return from the eleven times they outflanked their opponents, and the ten cross they sent over in the second half. For Knowle it was all too rushed. Shots snatched, passes inaccurate, and in the first half at least, open criticism of each other: all gave the home side confidence.

This was a disappointing performance by the Robins. They will have to do much better next Saturday at Barnt Green Spartak and hope Coton Green lose at Coventry Alvis.

Knowle FC: Tregartha; McArdle; Fox; Andrews; Cosgrove ©; Regan; Morris; Seeley (Bennett); Bailey (Corry); Mullen; Harbon (Parsons).

Subs not used: Alex O’Keefe; Ben Nolan Jones.

Yellow Card: Harbon

Forthcoming Fixtures

Saturday 9th April 2022 Away at Barnt Green Spartak. KO 3pm.

Ground address is: Earlswood Town FC, The Pavilions Football Ground, Malthouse Lane, Earlswood, , Warwickshire B94 5DX

Fun in the Cup for Knowle Ladies Again

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 15:25:04 GMT

27th March 2022 - Knowle Ladies 4-0 Kingfisher

There was plenty to be cheerful about following Knowle Ladies cup win last Sunday, despite a couple of late illnesses meaning changes to the squad. Four goals, clean sheet, excellent performance and a repair to the changing room door that Maz absolutely did not break.

The opening exchanges of the game were a little bit frantic from both sides, possession changed hands frequently and there was plenty of energy but not yet enough quality. Knowle settled themselves after ten minutes of this though and began to impose themselves, winning a succession of corners. Emma Shaw hit the post directly from one of these and Demi Rolph’s follow up back heel was scrambled off the line. Knowle did go ahead soon after with a landmark first Knowle goal for Robyn Bamber. Shaw’s clipped ball set Jess Barlow through on goal but the Kingfisher keeper came out quickly to change down her attempt. Bamber was on hand to slot home the loose ball from the edge of the box.

Knowle should have doubled their advantage when Jess Holland combined with Rolph to lay the ball into Alice Belcher, however she leant back and launched her shot over the bar. Rolph was then pulled down right on the edge of the box. After she had dusted herself off, she struck a low free kick that the keeper got down smartly to save, and Bamber couldn’t quite turn in the rebound. It was all Knowle at this point, with Kingfisher having to rely on throw ins or long goal kicks to win territory, but Belcher was dominating in the air and the Knowle backline were able to mop up anything she couldn’t make. The Robins doubled their lead after playing out from deep in their own half, Michelle McCormack with the dangerous ball forward that Holland and Barlow both challenged for and it was the latter who emerged and beat the keeper with a good finish. A solid first half performance saw Knowle lead 2-0 at the break with Kingfisher rarely threatening, but the Robins knew the next goal would be key.

Soon after the restart it was Barlow who nearly grabbed that all important third - Rolph teed her up but the keeper made a great save again. Kate Fleming’s influence in the middle of the park was paying dividends for Knowle, and she kickstarted a scintillating team move when she won possession and skipped through the first line of defence. Knowle transferred the ball through several players across the pitch and back again before sliding in Rolph, only for her shot to hit the crossbar. Kingfisher kept defending stoutly, and did actually go close themselves with a rare foray into Knowle’s penalty area. They won a corner from good pressing and the ball caused chaos on the six yard line, the home side unable to clear. The eventual shot was destined to fly in, but Belcher managed to deflect it wide. Knowle’s dominance earned them that third with twenty minutes left of the clock; Shaw’s corner headed firmly in by Belcher. This essentially settled the game and Knowle finished the match playing the majority of football in their opponents half. Barlow went close again with a shot that flew wide and Rolph came incredibly close to latching on the end of a couple of through balls before the keeper swept up. Knowle’s fourth and final goal came from another corner; Shaw’s delivery swinging all the way to the back post where McCormack bravely nodded it in, despite clashing with the post after.

Knowle Ladies sail through to the quarter finals then; their energetic and hard-working approach giving them the platform to show their quality in possession. With the draw already made, they now face Sedgley & Gornal at home next weekend for a place in the semis.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Smith, Byrne, Holland, Belcher, Fleming, McCormack, Rolph, Bamber, Barlow.

Subs: Keen (for Bamber, 30), Harris (for Belcher, 45)

Ladies graft leads to an important win

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 13:20:48 GMT

20th March 2022 - Sedgley & Gornal 2-4 Knowle Ladies

Following a tricky few days, the task for the Ladies Team players was to put that behind them and go and show what they were made of on the pitch. They did that in style on Sunday against Sedgley & Gornal United.

Knowle were quick out the blocks and looked to play positively from the start, pressing high up the pitch and forcing a couple of errors in the Sedgley backline. The first chance of the game came from a set piece, when Michelle McCormack thundered a free kick against the bar and Demi Rolph couldn’t quite turn in the rebound. The home side soon picked up and matched the tempo that Knowle had set however, and both teams exchanged good passages of play. The Sedgley forward smashed a shot on goal that Sam Smith blocked and from the resulting corner Maz Byrne did well to head away under pressure. Rolph then skipped round the opposition right back with ease but her shot was smothered by the keeper at the near post. Knowle’s energetic striker wasn’t to be denied a goal for much longer though! Her team mates won possession deep in their own half and played the ball into Camile Abbott’s feet in the middle. Abbotts spread play well and found Jess Holland out wide, whose forward pass fell to Rolph and she twisted out of trouble before beating the keeper for a 0-1 lead. Ten minutes later, United levelled when their striker was able to latch onto a short back pass and finished well past Katy Smirthwaite in the Knowle goal. The Robins almost went ahead again straight away, but McCormack’s effort was pushed wide by the keeper so they had to settle for a 1-1 halftime scoreline.

The away side were galvanised by the halftime team talk and started brightly again. Poppy Wheatstone’s introduction before halftime had made a real difference, and she was able to drag her side forward by holding the ball up well. Knowle were finding a lot of space on the left and this paid dividends in the 52nd minute; Emma Shaw played a great pass into Rolph who sped into the penalty area and slid it across the box for the onrushing Jess Barlow to fire home. Knowle really should have extended their lead but Smith’s header from a corner was poor and McCormack’s piledriver was tipped onto the crossbar by the Sedgley keeper. Shaw also went close with a free kick. It looked as though not extending the lead would haunt Knowle when the home side came right back at them. Smirthwaite had to watch a looping attempt carefully and claim near her front post but Sedgley did get their equaliser with 25 minutes left on the clock. A free kick went all the way to the back post for the Sedgley attacker to head back across goal, finding her teammate in acres of space to ram it into the net. Knowle didn’t let this set back dampen their spirits, and bringing the energy of Kate Fleming and Abbotts back onto the pitch helped them to push forward once more. Alice Belcher came close to a tap in but the goalkeeper just got hands to the ball, and Wheatstone was robbed by a great last ditch tackle. It took a while for the goal to come, but Knowle got their reward for the work rate they had put into the game on the 85th minute mark. Shaw’s free kick was clawed from under the crossbar, but Rolph’s front post run put her on home to stab the loose ball into the net. It was game management from there on in; Rach Keen had to be alive to race back and clear danger well, but Knowle dealt with any United attacks well. They then put some extra gloss on the result in the final minute; Wheatstone and Rolph combined to press a defender and the ball broke to Belcher who raced through to gleefully smash the ball beyond the keeper’s dive and give Knowle a 2-4 win.

Another exciting game against Sedgley & Gornal, these past two weeks have shown the two sides are well matched. A great crowd at the Dell Stadium too as many of the home side’s junior section were at the game – the atmosphere deserved a good game and hopefully the young players enjoyed the match if not the result. Knowle’s effort and attitude created a performance to be proud of though, and earned them the win in the end.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Byrne, Smith, Holland, McCormack, Fleming, Abbotts, Barlow, Belcher, Rolph.

Subs: Wheatstone (for Abbotts 40), Keen (for Fleming, 40)

Knowle denied at the Last

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 13:14:51 GMT

12th March 2022 - Cadbury Athletic 1-1 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Redhill Road.

Undefeated Cadbury Athletic welcomed Knowle to Redhill Road hoping to avenge the draw at Hampton Road earlier this season. Knowle on the other hand, were doing their best to be the first side to take all three points from the men in purple.

This was a topsy-turvy game of football. Athletic began well enough and could have been two up inside five minutes. Whilst at the other end Brandon Hague had a good shout for a Penalty turned down by referee Lane. For the next twenty minutes it was the visitors who had the best of the game, but as we drew near to the break, the home side began to dominate again. It was no surprise when we turned round all square.

During the interval the talk among supporters of both teams was that the match had nil-nil written all over it. It was certainly true that Athletic had created three chances on target, but Knowle only one.

The second half was a different matter altogether. The Robins started like a train and were totally dominant. Crosses were proving to be a dangerous prospect for the home side, and with longer legs, or a quicker turn of speed, Clive Seeley’s charges would have been two to the good. As it was, we had to wait until the sixty-seventh minute for a goal. A beautiful cross from the right was turned into the net by GEORGE SEELEY to put the visitors in front. With Athletic trying their might to respond, Mr Lane finally had enough of dissent from the home side and sent Josh McGinley to the ‘Sin Bin’. One expected Knowle to press forward and take full advantage of the ten men. Instead; they fell back into defence. This only encouraged Cadbury to pour forward. The introduction of Thomas Craine and Emile Beckford assisted their cause. Knowle’s response was to boot the ball up-field and thus concede possession; or try and get the second goal which inevitably left them short at the back and conceding possession. Both strategies helped their opponents. Yet still Cadbury could not find a shot on target.

From the time The Robins scored until the end of the game, some twenty-three minutes, Cadbury won no corners but Knowle were pinned back in their own Area. With Referee Lane having played two minutes added time, and a host of players in the Knowle six-yard area, a loose-ball hit PETE BAILEY’S leg and fell over the line. It was a scrappy goal. But it ensured that Cadbury remain undefeated and that Knowle had to be satisfied with just won point when they deserved all three, a remark that will, no doubt be challenged by Cadbury.

This was a totally different Knowle from the one we have seen in recent weeks. Clive Seeley will be worried about the lack of consistency shown by his side, and doing all he can to make sure that for the remaining three fixtures, at home to Hampton, and away at Boldmere Sports and Social Falcons and Barnt Green Spartak they will play like this and keep the pressure on Coton Green. Promotion is still there to be won.

Knowle FC: Tregartha; McArdle; Fox; Andrews (Regan); Cosgrove ©; Bennett; Morris (Mullen); Seeley [67]; Faulkner (Bailey); Hague; Harbon [90+2og].

Subs not used: Alex O’Keefe; Zak Parsons.

Yellow Card: Harbon

Forthcoming Fixtures

Saturday 26th March 2022 Home to Hampton FC at the Draintech Community Ground, Hampton Road, Knowle: KO 1500

Knowle Well Below Par

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 17:12:31 GMT

5th March 2022 - Knowle FC 0-1 Redditch Borough

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Stadium.

Injury, illness and unavailability forced Clive Seeley into a number of changes from last Saturday. On a difficult playing surface, The Robins never really began to sing. Indeed: this was a poor match all round, with neither side able to create many chances on goal.

The only bright spot in the whole ninety minutes was JAMES MUDIE’s thirty-yard screamer three minutes prior to the break. It proved enough to gift Redditch Borough the three points. A bountiful reward for the visitors as they only managed two shots on target in the game; yet again, a conversion rate that far exceeded The Robins’ no goals in six efforts on target.

Knowle began well, with a shot blocked early on. The home side controlled matters for twenty minutes of the first half, squandering chances as they went, before Borough began to assert themselves. Even so: it was turgid stuff with little quality and far too many mistakes. The game had no pattern at all.

Too often Knowle allowed an attack to peter out for want of a decent pass, or shot. Mudie’s goal came out of the blue, and at a bad time for Knowle. Yet they started the second half like a train. Unfortunately this too was allowed to peter out.

The introduction of Messers Andrews, Parsons and new boy Mullen, did inject some pace and purpose into proceedings. Many thought Ryan Andrews deserved a Penalty some four minutes from time, but Referee Hill was confident in turning down the appeals. Knowle piled on the pressure as the clock ticked towards the end, but it was more desperation than calculation, and Borough coped well enough.

Knowle FC: Tregartha; Fox; O’Keefe (Mullen); McArdle; Cosgrove; Regan (Ryan Andrews); Morris; Bennett; Bailey; Seeley (Parsons); Harbon.

Subs not used: Ash Weeks.

Yellow Cards: Fox and Harbon

Knowle Ladies Enjoy a Sunny Sunday Win

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 18:01:27 GMT

27th February 2022 - Knowle Ladies 3-1 Rugby Borough

Sunday was a perfect day for football, and both Knowle and opponents Rugby Borough were definitely pleased to take to the field without gale force winds or driving rain as they have done in previous weeks!

The formation and line up was tweaked somewhat from the last game, with debutant Michelle McCormack named in midfield and Sam Smith returning to the back line. Within two minutes of kick off, the referee was pointing to the penalty spot after Jess Holland had been hacked down just inside the area. McCormack duly stepped up and slid the spot kick past the keeper for a dream start to her Knowle career! The early lead gave Knowle confidence and the first half was one way traffic. Balls into the penalty box were causing chaos for Rugby defence and Knowle could have double the lead when Emma Shaw’s deep cross found fellow full back Rach Keen on the back post, but she couldn’t get over the ball and clipped her attempt just over the bar. Demi Rolph was then sent clear by McCormack, but the Rugby goalkeeper came out and blocked her shot. McCormack herself also forced a good save with a free kick that had to be parried round the post.

Knowle were able to pick off any sporadic Rugby attacks, though were sometimes guilty of letting the bobbly pitch affect the way they held onto possession. However they were creating opportunities by playing over and in behind the Rugby backline, and with better finishing, would perhaps have extended their lead several times in that first half. Alice Belcher beat the offside trap on the half hour mark and squared to Rolph, but she rushed her shot and didn’t connect properly. Rolph’s next attempt was deflected wide by the keeper and from the resulting corner, Kate Fleming’s volley hit the bar. The home side therefore had to be content with a 1-0 lead at half time.

The second half started in much the same fashion as the first, with Knowle creating a couple of quick fire chances. Rolph was again in the right position to pick up Holland’s clever through ball, but this time the Rugby goalkeeper stretched out a leg and just managed to divert the attempt wide. Belcher then combined well with Jess Barlow to find space to hit a shot, but the keeper blocked once more. Long range efforts from McCormack and Camile Abbotts were off target too. Rugby then had a period of success in the Knowle half, pouncing on a couple of loose passes to attack goal. The forward was under pressure from Shaw and shot high over the bar on the first occasion, and Maz Byrne raced back to clear the second.

Knowle did eventually get their second when Rolph skipped round a defender on the left side, drew out the keeper then squared to Belcher to slot home. Ten minutes later it was 3-0; Holland’s persistence in chasing down a hopeful pass rescued the ball out wide right, allowing Morgan Betteridge to cross. Rolph collected the ball on the back post and fired it in from a tight angle to deservedly get on the scoresheet. There was just enough time in the game for Rugby Borough to grab a consolation however; Smith’s clearance rebounded off Byrne’s arm, rolled off the arm and shoulder of the attacked and was poked past Smirthwaite – unpick that one referee!? Knowle closed out the last couple of minutes easily though, giving them a 3-1 win.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Byrne, Smith, Keen, Holland, McCormack, Fleming, Barlow, Belcher, Rolph.

Subs: Abbotts (for Barlow, 59), Harris (for Shaw, 63) Betteridge (for Keen, 66)

Photos courtesy of Dave Lockie - https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=DaveLockiePhotography&set=a.3044172849182774

1 - Jess Barlow beats a defender

2 - Camile Abbotts blocks Rugby Progress

Knowle Gain Ground On 2nd Place

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 11:53:37 GMT

12th February 2022 - Knowle FC 5-3 Coton Green FC

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Stadium.

Knowle made a number of changes for this clash with promotion rivals Coton Green. Christian McArdle reported injured, Regan dropped to the bench where he was joined by new boy Faulkner. Cullen, Harbon and Fox joined the starting eleven.

The Robins were really up for this match, and right from the off they made their intention clear. Charlie Morris made progress down the left flank, his cross/shot hit the bar. In the seventh minute a long ball from Tregartha found NATHAN CORRY who ran into space to score. The visitors were visibly shocked and tried to up their game, forcing Tregartha to make a save. Yet somehow one felt Coton Green were going through the motions, rather than imposing their authority on the game. That had already been done by the Robins.

It was no surprise when the impressive CHARLIE MORRIS chipped the ‘Keeper from eighteen yards following a throw-in. Once again Coton Green responded and, once again forced Jack Tregartha to make a save. As it turned out, these were to be their only two attempts on target in the first half. For the rest of the first forty-five minutes Knowle were firmly in control. They ought to have scored a third when a wonderful move along their right flank ended with a good cross. Somehow Knowle failed to turn it home.

As we drew close to the break there was a change in the game. It became a feisty affair and when Charlie Morris was chopped down, the Referee, Mr Munday consulted with his Assistant Mr Jeffrey and then send Jack Henry for an early shower. It could have been much worse for Coton Green when many in the ground thought they should have been down to nine men. A yellow card had to suffice.

After the break the relationship between Hague and Corry produced another goal. Hague fed NATHAN CORRY who scored from eighteen yards to make it three. Now what would happen? Surely Coton Green would not continue to be so poor? Indeed not. Three substitutions brought Howard, Doak and ex-Robin, Jay Payne into the fray. Doak proved to be a real handful and had a major influence on the match. The visitors swarmed forward and after a free kick OLIVER HOUGH had the final touch to pull a goal back.

The Robins kept clear water between the two sides when CHAIRLE FAULKNER had the ball over the line. Brandon Hague was sent away with an accurate long ball, but shot wide. Then Morris fluffed an easy chance. With eleven minutes to go RYAN CONLON headed the ball home to reduce the arrears. Three minutes later a moment of real controversy. RYAN CONLON had the ball in the net alright. But which part of his body propelled it? The Referee Mr Munday and his Assistant Mr Hunt allowed the goal. The crowd thought it was deliberate hand-ball. After the match I asked, a member of the Coton Green management team who scored this goal, I was told “Maradona”!

Anyway, there were nine minutes to go and the score was Knowle four, Coton Green three. We were in for a bumpy end to the game.

With two minutes of the ninety to go, Brandon Hague was upended in the Area by the Coton Green Goalkeeper. He received a yellow card and DYLON BENNETT thumped home the Penalty. That was it. Knowle were on song and got their just rewards.

Knowle FC: Tregartha; Fox; Hennessey; Bennett [88p]; Cosgrove ©; Cullen; Morris [79] (O’Keefe); Seeley (Faulkner [65]); Corry [7][49] (Regan); Hague; Harbon. Subs not used: Delaney & Parsons.

Yellow Cards: Seeley; Corry; and Hennessey

Forthcoming Fixtures

Saturday 19th February 2022 Away to Boldmere Sports and Social Falcons at Boldmere Sports & Social Club, 323 Boldmere Road, Boldmere, B73 5HQ. KO 1500.

Saturday 26th February 2022 Away to Kenilworth Sporting at Kenilworth Sporting Ground, Gipsy Lane, Kenilworth, , CV8 1FA. KO 1500

Robins Light Up A Dull Affair

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 13:07:01 GMT

5th February 2022 - Lane Head FC 0-5 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Grosvenor Park.

For well over an hour, this match was as dull as dull can be. Both sides were stodgy and laboured. Quality was in short supply all over the difficult playing surface. A strong and chilly wind did not assist matters. Lane Head showed the signs of being in a difficult patch, having parted company with their manager the day before. Knowle were, perhaps, too anxious and trying just too hard. Passing moves through mid-field were jettisoned in favour of the long ball into the channels. Lane Head found coping with this tactic easy. The result was only two shots on target during the whole of the first forty-five minutes, and both in Knowle’s favour.

The wind was cold, and the afternoon seemed to be dragging on for ever. Thank God for the wonderful and warm welcome one receives at this football club. They may not have the riches of some, but what they have they share. From Chairman and Secretary, to the ladies in the kitchen, we were royally welcomed. They are a credit to the league. On the park, it was a different matter, four bookings and one in the sin-bin. Referee Richards had his work cut out.

With ten minutes of the second half gone, it all changed. A simple long ball over the top was chipped first time by BRANDON HAGUE into the net from thirty yards. Suddenly it was a different game. The Robins’ tails were up and Lane Head dejected. Following a Knowle corner, the ball was headed straight at the Goalkeeper, only for him to send the ball up field. Eventually it came to NATHAN CORRY who made no mistake from twelve yards.

With fifteen minutes to go TOM CULLEN profited from a wonderful move along Knowle’s right flank by Corry. The same man again fed CULLEN for his second. Four minutes from the end, it was the long ball again. This led to a defensive mix-up for ZAK PARSONS to bundle the ball over the line, and make it five.

Not the best game of football I have ever watched, but Knowle will not give a fig about that. They left Grosvenor Park with three precious points, which sets them up for next Saturday’s encounter at Hampton Road with Coton Green.

Knowle FC: Tregartha; McArdle; Hennessy; Bennett; Cosgrove ©; Regan; Morris (O’Keefe); Seeley (Bailey): Corry [68]; Hague [56]; Cullen [75][77] (Parsons [90+2]. Yellow Card: Hennessy. Sub not used: Fox.

On Saturday 12th February 2022 Home to Coton Green FC. KO 1500

Four Goals Showing From Alice Belcher Gives Ladies The Win!

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 14:18:41 GMT

30th January 2022 - Rugby Borough 0-6 Knowle Ladies

After last week’s laboured performance Knowle Ladies were keen to bounce back and they certainly managed that against Rugby Borough on Sunday, with a 0-6 away win.

Knowle started confidently, taking advantage of the 3G surface to retain possession well and test their opponents shape. They fashioned their first chance after working the ball across the backline to allow Rach Keen to find a through ball to Alice Belcher; the Rugby keeper beat away her shot and a defender was able to poke the rebound off Demi Rolph’s toes. The Robins created a flurry of opportunities through good football but couldn’t finish them off. Great work from Emma Shaw allowed Morgan Betteridge to play a superb through ball to Belcher, but her left foot shot was saved. Shaw was again involved when she clipped a pass to the far post that found Sam Smith in acres of space; the defender should have shot instead of trying to square Rolph in for a tap in.

Knowle’s patience eventually paid dividend though as they worked the ball across the pitch from Rolph on the left, into Belcher and Jess Barlow in the middle. Barlow swivelled to roll Betteridge in on the right wing and her cross was stabbed home at the second attempt by Rolph. Soon after, Belcher hit the post after another good move involving Smith, Maz Byrne and Betteridge. Rugby’s opportunities in the first half were limited; when they did come forward they moved the ball well but were unable to fashion a chance to test Katy Smirthwaite in the Knowle goal. When the second Knowle goal came, it was a result of great combination play between Rolph and Belcher. Rolph seized upon a Rugby goal kick, played the one two with her striker to get into the box then laid it across the Belcher to smash home. Knowle could have scored another before half time – Kate Fleming flew down the left side before playing Belcher in, her shot was well saved by the keeper but only fell to Keen who had stormed forward from right back. Unfortunately she lifted the rebound over the bar and the Robins had to settle for a 0-2 halftime lead.

The first chance of the second period fell to Rugby, who won a couple of second balls to loft a pass into the strikers feet on the edge of the box and although her attempt was on target, it was straight at Smirthwaite. It didn’t take long for Knowle to find their groove though and get a third goal; the away side worked the ball out from their own goal kick well, then Belcher slid her pass into Rolph. She turned the defenders inside out before firing past the keeper for her second of the game. Rugby didn’t drop their heads though and for the next ten minutes, pressed forward in an attempt to pressurise Knowle, but the team in blue were able to pick off their attacks well. Indeed, it was stealing in to pinch possession that set up Knowle’s fourth – Belcher robbed the unsuspecting midfielder and played in Ebony Harris, her low cross panicked the defender into a wild clearance. From the resulting corner kick, Shaw planted the ball perfectly on Belcher’s head and she nodded it home.

Knowle perhaps were guilty of taking their foot off the gas for a period after that goal, not quite getting the final ball right to create clear cut chances. Harris rushed a volleyed attempt and Jess Holland streamed forward to get herself into the perfect position to run onto Camile Abbotts weighted pass, but then the ball got stuck under her feet on the edge of box. Abbotts own attempt after she was teed up by nicely by Barlow was pushed round the post by the keeper. Rugby created a chance of their own with a good passing move, but Holland was on hand to snuff out the danger and put it out for a corner which Knowle dealt with well. When the Robins pushed forward and won their own set piece, Betteridge’s corner was the perfect ball, but Byrne headed wide. It wasn’t long before Knowle did have their fifth though, Smith collected a loose pass and reversed it into Barlow in centre midfield; she turned nicely and played in Rolph who motored into the penalty area to draw the defenders before slipping in Belcher for her hat trick. It could have been four for the striker immediately after when Rolph squared her in again, but the home side goalkeeper stood tall and made a good save. Belcher was not to be denied however, and she did grab her fourth of the afternoon and Knowle’s sixth late on. Byrne stepped forward to win a challenge on the halfway line before chipping the ball into Belcher’s path and she rolled it past the incoming keeper.

Knowle were well worth the win in a game they controlled for the most part, and were rewarded for their intentions to keep possession and play good football. A massive improvement on the previous game and the squad will be pleased to get back on track. They head to Rugby once again next week, this time Rugby Town provide the opposition, 2pm kick off.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Byrne, Smith, Keen, Holland, Barlow, Fleming,, Betteridge, Belcher, Rolph.

Subs: Abbotts (for Holland, 30), Horsburgh (for Betteridge, 30,) Harris (for Horsburgh, 45)

Photos courtesy of Brian Dainty - https://www.facebook.com/briandaintyphoto

1 - Jess Barlow beats a defender

2 - Camile Abbotts blocks Rugby Progress

Knowle Grind Out The Win

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 14:09:22 GMT

29th January 2022 - Inkberrow 2-3 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Sands Road

This was an interesting match to watch. It would have been a really attractive example of Midland Football League Division Two football, if it were not for a fierce wind blowing right down the centre line. This resulted in the ball spending much time on the adjoining pitch.

Inkberrow are, as Clive Seeley promised, a really good footballing side. They play the ball through mid-field, and find spaces between their opponents mid-field and defence. If they have a weakness, it is up front. The home side managed only three shots on target in the whole game, and I may say, converted two of them.

The Robins began well enough, forcing a couple of early corners, but were knocked back after thirteen minutes with a ball over the top. This was missed by the defence allowing NATHAN DAVIES to profit, and open the scoring. Knowle were visibly affected by this. They found it hard to wrest the initiative from the home side. Yet, the Robins defence held out and kept the home forwards at arms-length.

As the half-hour mark drew nigh, Knowle began to make progress forwards. Eventually their sheer dogged persistence paid off. Hague fed NATHAN CORRY, after a battle with defenders. Corry’s first effort was saved, only for the number nine to tap the equalizer home. It was a goal that born as a direct result of refusing to take “no” for an answer. He, and Brandon Hague, just would not be denied.

Four minutes later, Knowle had the ball in the net after the wind caused havoc in the home defence, only for the referee to blew his whistle for a foul on the goalkeeper. A decision that caused bemusement among the visiting supporters. This encouraged the visitors to take control of the match and put the Inkberrow defenders under great pressure. There were forced into last ditch defending.

The Second Period began much as the first had done. The impressive GEORGE ROBBINS, the Inkberrow number three, skipped along the Knowle defensive line before putting the ball in the corner of the net. Knowle needed to respond, and quickly. It took just nine minutes. With Brandon Hague making progress into the Inkberrow area, he went over. A trip, or a fall? Referee Mr Ben Whittick consulted his Assistant Mr Graham Hill, before pointing to the Penalty Spot. DYLON BENNETT made no mistake from twelve yards. The Robins had drawn level for the second time.

The pendulum had swung decisively in the visitors’ favour. Three minutes was all it took for them to take the lead. Following a really beautiful move along their left flank, the centre was perfect for TOM CULLEN to score what proved to be the winner. There was still time for Nathan Corry to hit the bar from distance, but Knowle were never really in danger for the final twenty minutes. A good win that needed to be ground out with sheer determination. Inkberrow will be rueing their lack of fire-power in front of goal. Yet I still expect them to take points from other top six sides in Division Two.

Knowle FC: Tregartha; McArdle; Kennesey; Fox; Cosgrove ©; Bennett [58P]; Morris (O’Keefe); Seeley (Regan); Corry [25] (Parsons); Hague; Cullen [61]. Yellow Cards: Seeley. Sub not used: Delaney.

Next match: Saturday 5th February 2022. Away to Lane Head FC at the Red Lion Ground, Somerfield Road, Walsall, WS3 2EH. KO 1445.

Ladies Stumble to Victory

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 12:53:46 GMT

23rd January 2022 - Westfields Women 2-3 Knowle Ladies

Despite putting another three points on the board with a 2-3 win away at Westfields, there was a definite feeling after this game that Knowle had got away with one. The performance was sloppy to say the least and the team struggled to showcase the qualities that have been so apparent in previous games.

It had all started so brightly for the Robins however, racing away from kick off to earn a corner in the first minute and moving the ball confidently in the early stages of the game. They showed no signs of lethargy from the long journey and they attacked well. The first chance came when Annie Stanway pulled a good save from the goalkeeper with a shot from the edge of the box, and Westfields were forced to defend stoutly to keep Knowle out. The away side went ahead with only eight minutes on the clock; Alice Belcher refused to give up on a Jess Holland long ball that looked like it may run too far and managed to knock it past the advancing keeper. The ball struck the post, but Belcher followed in and tapped home the rebound. Knowle doubled their lead two minutes later; this time it was Demi Rolph providing the finish after Jess Barlow and Camile Abbotts combined to set her up.

In response, Westfields rolled their sleeves up at the back and set a deep line to successfully stop Knowle getting in behind. They also tried to push forward themselves and were awarded a free kick in a dangerous position following a clear foul. The shot was on target, but Katy Smirthwaite caught it cleanly. Knowle’s next opportunity came after they worked the ball down the left side to Morgan Betteridge; she let fly with a great attempt but got the post and the rebound was cleared. Soon after, Rolph skipped through two challenges out wide on the right and crossed into Belcher, but she clipped her close range attempt over the bar. Emma Shaw and Betteridge linked up well on the left for the full back to cross into the box, but the ball somehow evaded everyone and bounced harmlessly wide. After all that, Knowle seemed to lose their impetus and the game became a disjointed affair. The Robins could not keep the ball and either rushed their passes or tried to dribble out of trouble only to get caught by good tackling from the opposition. They perhaps could have conceded after losing possession when out of shape, but Holland rescued her team by putting in a fine block on the edge of the box. The first half petered out without much more action, though Poppy Wheatstone went close for the Robins late on with a shot that the Westfields keeper saved well.

Knowle were hoping to get back on track in the second half, but in truth they looked even more laboured after the break. The match was scrappy with neither side keeping possession well, though Westfields did produce a good move that almost sent their forward clear, but Maz Byrne was quick on the recovery tackle. Rach Keen also had to mop up trouble when a missed clearance bounced through towards the penalty area. Knowle’s first chance of the half was created by Stanway sliding Rolph through into the area, but the Westfields keeper came out to block, injuring herself in the process. Belcher and Rolph were the players trying to drive Knowle forward, the two were certainly Knowle’s best performers on the day, and the former hit a fierce shot over the bar after beating a couple of players. Knowle hadn’t got their shape right though, and gaps were appearing which Westfield exploited well to score their first goal of the game, the left winger in acres of space at the back post and firing her shot past Smirthwaite. Lucy Horsburgh was finding opportunities to get free on the right wing; on one occasion her cross found Wheatstone but the keeper saved well. Rolph also forced the goalkeeper into a good save from her dipping free kick. The young forward earned her player of the match accolade on 77 minutes when she scored her second of the game, driving into through the heart of Westfields defence and smashing her shot through the keeper. The home side came back strongly once again, regularly winning the ball off Knowle players and carrying it forward to attack the Robins’ defence. They pulled another goal back late on from one such attack, the midfielder standing strong to win a tackle before working it sideways to her midfielder partner. A chasm had opened up on Knowle’s right side and the Westfields player spotted it immediately and played the ball in; Smirthwaite was caught in no-mans and the left winger raced in to slot it into goal for her second of the game too. Knowle were able to see out the last few minutes though and the final whistle gave them the win that they had nearly thrown away.

It wasn’t all Knowle apathy though, to their credit Westfields defended very well and worked tirelessly all game, despite only having eleven available. They were organised and determined, two qualities that Knowle certainly lacked on the day. Several lessons for the team to take away ahead of next week’s clash with Rugby Borough.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Shaw, Keen, Smith, Holland, Barlow, Abbotts, Stanway, Betteridge, Belcher, Rolph.

Subs: Wheatstone (for Rolph, 30), Harris (for Betteridge, 30,) Byrne (for Smith, 45), Horsburgh (for Holland, 68).

Photos courtesy of Helen Warwick - https://twitter.com/HelenWarwick5

1 - Morgan Betteridge holds off a defender

2 - Lucy Horsburgh attacks down the wing

Robins Let It Slip

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 12:19:19 GMT

22nd January 2022 - Alcester Town 4-3 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Oversely Green

The First Half of this match was a carbon copy of last week’s match at Hampton. Knowle were well short of their capability. Passes went astray. It seemed impossible for them to find a team mate. The heavy pitch did not help, of course and the home side, with more spirit than technique, took advantage. But, it was Knowle who found the conditions difficult. Their First Half performance was truly awful. Defensive errors were rife, and two led to goals for the home side. As early as the third minute HEWITT took full advantage as his team mates cut through the Knowle mid-field and defence like a knife through butter, leaving him to score with ease.

Town were well on top and the Robins found life difficult. About the fifteen minute mark we had a moment of sheer farce. The Referee’s Assistant, Mr Alan Dennis flagged for offside against a Town player. The whistle blew and play stopped. Jack Tregartha came forward to take the kick. He placed the ball and retreated to run up and take the kick. The Referee, My Lloyd Bell, then decided that play should continue and waived play on. Town took full advantage and pupped the ball into the net. At this turn of events, the Mr Bell disallowed the goal and insisted that the offside kick be taken. Everyone was dissatisfied and bewildered.

Shortly after this, Town were awarded a free kick right on the eighteen-yard line and just left of centre. Mr Bell paced out ten yards which the Knowle defence thought rather generous to the home side. As this was going on, the Town kick-taker took the ball placed by the Referee back a yard. Then thought better of it and moved it back another yard, thus improving his angle and placing the defensive wall some twelve yards away. The kick bounced out only to be put in by the lurking WARD. But did the ball cross the line? It hit the bar and bounced down and the Assistant, Mr Dennis flagged, but he was some fifteen yards down the touch line. To say the Knowle contingent were displeased is an understatement.

Brandon Hague was receiving rough treatment from the Town defence, and although no foul in his favour was awarded throughout the whole match, he never let it get him down, He got up, dusted himself off and got on with the game. The second period was, again like last week, a different matter. Some ten minutes into the second half, LUKE FOX turned home a punched clear effort. One minute later, he headed home a corner for the equalizer.

Twenty five minutes before the close, ZAK HARBON let fly from thirty yards to take the lead. Then he was sent off for two yellow cards. This turned the game. Knowle retreated into their shell and thus invited Town on to them. First WARD got his second, before ELWELL grabbed all three points for the home side. A bitter pill to swallow, but mostly self-inflicted. There is much work to be done on the Knowle Training Pitch this week.

Knowle FC: Tregatha; Corry; Payne (Seeley); Fox [54][55]; Cosgrove ©; Delaney; Morris (Galloway); Bennett; Hague (Bailey); Cullen; Harbon [69]. Yellow Cards: Harbon (2) & Bennett

Next match: Saturday 29th January 2022 Away to Inkberrow at the Recreation Ground, Sands Road, Inkberrow, WR7 4PX. KO 1400.

Photos courtesy of the Mowdog - https://themowdog.blogspot.com/2022/01/alcester-town-4-3-knowle-fc-independent.html

1 - Luke Fox leaps high to score his second

2 - Zak Harbon fires home his goal

Ladies Go Down Fighting

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 10:50:27 GMT

16th January 2022 - Knowle Ladies 0-4 Wolverhampton Wanderers

Knowle Ladies faced up to Wolves Women in the quarter finals of the Birmingham FA County Cup on Sunday, knowing they were in for a tough game against opponents who are unbeaten in Tier 3 this season, a full three leagues higher than the Robins. And so it proved, with Wolves dominating the game…but Knowle can be proud of the fact they stayed in the tie for so long and made their high flying opponents work hard for the eventual win.

The home side set up with a clear game plan; packing out all the space in and around the final third and trying to keep plenty of players behind the ball to restrict chances for Wolves. They found success with the strategy in the first half as, although the away team had the majority of possession, they rarely troubled Katy Smirthwaite in between the sticks. When the goalkeeper was tested, she proved herself up to the challenge – no more so than the first shot of the game which was an absolute pile driver from the Wolves forward, but Smirthwaite got her body behind it and gathered the rebound well. Waves of old gold shirts came forward, but Knowle stuck to their task by forcing them wide and then blocking or clearing crosses well. They rode their luck from a couple of corners, Wolves attackers sending a header over the bar and then one straight at Smirthwaite before adjusting their zonal marking accordingly to start competing in the air. When Wolves did play through the middle, they were perhaps guilty of overdoing things, with a number of attempted through balls skipping safely out of play or straight to the Knowle keeper. Knowle also kept a tight line, catching their opponents offside several times. The home side may have been strong defensively, but they were unable to get forward enough to make an impact in an attacking sense, though Poppy Wheatstone held the ball up well whenever her teammates did find her feet. Knowle’s best spell involved a combination between Demi Rolph and Alice Belcher, with the latter pushing forward into the Wolves half and trying to send Lucy Horsburgh through, but she was picked off by the Wolves defender before she could enter the penalty area and shoot. A dangerous Wolves attack was then thwarted by a last ditch block from Sam Smith on the six yard line and Maz Byrne was able to mop up the pieces. Morgan Betteridge was also doing good work on the left side along with Emma Shaw, cutting out any attempted crossfield passes well. Wolves’ best chance of the half came from wide on their left side, the winger beating two Knowle players before sliding a square ball to the centre forward, but Smirthwaite made a top save again from point blank range and diverted it wide with her outstretched leg. The half ended with Smirthwaite claiming a couple of crosses, and then a nice passing move by Wolves that the forward fired wide of the far post.

Wolves made a couple of changes for the second half and changed their approach somewhat, running more with the ball and committing Knowle players in order to get through the lines more often. This made the second period even harder for the home side, but they stuck to their task. Smirthwaite was in the headlines again early on, tipping over another fierce drive despite the fact she was now facing into the bright sunshine. At nil nil, Knowle were at least in the game, hoping to pinch something going forward. Smirthwaite was definitely much busier now though, making several saves including beating away a long range effort and palming over a header from a corner. Knowle’s resistance lasted an hour before Wolves finally broke the deadlock; the left winger swinging in a cross which the captain met with a firm close range header to give her side the 0-1 lead. The Robins didn’t let their heads drop and continued to work incredibly hard all across the pitch, chasing down Wolves’ heavy share of the possession. Jess Barlow was getting through a lot of work in the middle of the park, ably assisted by Jess Holland and Kate Fleming. The second Wolves goal came on the 74 minute mark as Knowle began to tire. In fact, it stemmed from a Knowle free kick; possession was lost and Wolves swept through the middle and played a great through ball to the left sided forward who smashed her shot low into the net at the near post. Wolves went three up a few minutes later when Knowle failed to spot an attacker lurking on the edge of the box at a corner and she drilled home the inch perfect ball played to her. The Robins regrouped and continued to defend tenaciously, but they were unable to keep possession even when they won the ball. As the game wore on, Smith had to make up ground to get a good sliding tackle in to stop the forward advancing on goal and Rach Keen cut out two attempts at the back post. However, in stoppage time Wolves did get their fourth; Knowle tackling well to stop the first attempt but then the clearance pinballed and broke to the attacker who produced a good finish across goal.

Despite the 0-4 score line, Knowle were proud of their efforts against a side who were by far and away a class above any other opponent they have faced in the past few years. They defended bravely and left nothing on the pitch, fighting hard to keep the Wolves attacks at bay and working for each other. The girls in red stuck to their shape and their game plan well, with the only disappointment being they were not able to fashion a couple of chances of their own. Still, a performance to be proud of and no disgrace to lose to side of that quality. Knowle Ladies are in action again next Sunday, back to the league where they play Westfields away.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Keen, Smith, Byrne, Holland, Betteridge, Belcher, Barlow, Fleming, Rolph, Wheatstone.

Subs: Horsburgh (for Wheatstone, 29), Shaw (for Holland, 29), Abbotts (for Horsburgh, 52), Harris (for Betteridge, 64), Jones (for Shaw, 74).

Photo credit for header and below: Dave Lockie Photography - https://www.facebook.com/DaveLockiePhotography/

Knowle Stuck in the Boggery!

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 10:32:05 GMT

15th January 2022 - Hampton FC 2-1 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from The Boggery

As the referee deemed Hampton’s number one pitch unplayable, their number two pitch was used for this match. It had a difficult surface, undulating and heavy.

After such a long lay-off, (18th December being the last time these two sides took to the field) both sides were anxious to get back into the swing of things. An added problem for Knowle was that they had Covid in the camp. This alone had resulted in two postponements.

Nevertheless, the visitors named a strong side that included new singing Zak Harbon. Still, Knowle began slowly and it took the home side just three minutes to open the scoring. Poor defending allowing HAMAZ SIDDIQUE to take full advantage. Although this was a set back for the visitors, shortly afterwards Brandon Hague ran through on his own, only to shoot wide. Then Tom Cullen found himself one on one with the Hampton goalkeeper Allely. Not for the last time in the match, Matthew Allely saved well.

The home side were controlling the game. Knowle were slow, ponderous over cautious and showed all the signs of not relishing their task. Constant encouragement from Messers Cosgrave and Delaney fell on deaf ears. With twenty minutes gone, Hampton were awarded a free kick which was launched into the Knowle area for WILL SIMMONS to put the ball into the back of the net. Now Knowle were in deep trouble.

Things got even worse when Callum Regan went down with a head injury. He carried on after treatment, but when he headed a ball, it was obvious to one and all that he could not continue. Dylon Bennett made a early appearance from the bench.

Knowle received a life-line when awarded a Penalty. New Boy Zak Harbon’s kick was too close to the ‘Keeper, and he duly saved with ease.

Somehow Knowle managed to get to the half-time whistle without further disaster. But Hampton were on a high. Everyone knew what their tactics would be for the second half: Defend with nine men and leave one up top. This is exactly what they did.

Whatever Ash Weeks, Clive Seeley’s Assistant in charge as Seeley was serving a suspension, said at half time, it produced an immediate result.

A different Knowle side took the park for the re-start. It took just three minutes for them to score. It was a thirty-yard pile driver from NATHAN CORRY. Now the visiting supporters started to believe that their men would go home with something from the game.

Somehow it just did not happen. They reached the Hampton by line often enough, but the cross was wasted, shot wide, straight at the ‘Keeper or he made a great save. Knowle had enough chances in the second forty-five minutes to have won three games. But they just could not find the net. Hampton having nine men behind the ball did not help their cause, but they could not find a way of getting the ball into the net.

Their task was made easier when Referee Sudbury sent off Tom Parnaby for two yellow cards, but they could not break down Hampton’s ten men. As the clock ticked on, Knowle became ever more anxious and rushed. Having Ethan Galloway sent to the Sin Bin on ninety four minutes hardly helped.

At the final whistle Hampton were as delighted as Knowle were dejected. The Knowle backroom staff have until next Saturday to get the Robins back to winning form. A short journey to Alcester Town awaits.

Knowle FC: Tregatha; Fox (Galloway), Payne, Regan (Bennett), Cosgrove, Delaney, Harbon, Andrews, Hague, Cullen (Seeley), Corry [48].

Sub not used: Arthur.

Knowle’s next match:

On Saturday 22nd January 2022: Away to Alcester Town FC at Old Stratford Road, Oversley Green, Alcester, B49 6LN. KO 1400.

Photos below and on header courtesy of Jonathan Holloway.

Ladies start the year in style

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 11:59:26 GMT

9th January 2022 - Knowle Ladies 7-0 Westfields Women

The Ladies got 2022 off to a flying start on Sunday with a good performance that earned them a 7-0 victory over a young Westfields Women side.

Knowle took to the pitch sporting an unfamiliar look, choosing to switch to their blue away shirts to avoid a slight colour clash with Westfield’s claret jerseys. The black and blue Robins were into their stride very early on though and went ahead in the second minute of the game. Morgan Betteridge’s cross was half cleared, but Knowle recycled it and found Jess Barlow in space 25 yards from goal. Her high shot had the keeper scrambling back, but she couldn’t keep it out the net. Knowle were buoyed by that fast start and had the majority of possession in the first half, testing their opponents with some good passing moves. The home side had the ball in the net again when Alice Belcher robbed a defender in the box and Poppy Wheatstone lashed home the loose ball, but the ref pulled it back for a foul against Belcher. Maz Byrne also had an attempt from Emma Shaw’s corner saved, before two quick fire goals from Demi Rolph gave them clear daylight. The first came after a nice team move; Betteridge and Holland combined well and the young full back threaded a through ball to Belcher on the right side of the box. She crossed to Rolph to rifle home from 10 yards. Rolph’s second perhaps wasn’t quite as pretty; Belcher chased down a long ball and slid in bravely with the keeper, poking it out to where Rolph could pounce and she made sure her shot avoided both defenders getting back to cover the line by hitting it high into the net.

Knowle made a couple of substitutes on the 35 minute mark and they nearly paid dividend immediately when Belcher rolled a pass to Camile Abbotts and her first time long range effort dipped just over the bar. Westfields did then create a couple of their own opportunities, working the ball through midfield to hit two shots from distance, but both sailed wide. Shaw was next to come close for Knowle, playing a short corner to Rolph to change the angle and bend a shot towards the far post but again the ball was marginally off target. As the half came to a close, there was time for Knowle to grab their fourth however, Rolph and Belcher linked up together to play into the box, with Belcher receiving the final pass and crashing her shot into the top right corner for her tenth goal of the season so far.

To their credit, Westfields came out for the second half determined to get back into the game and were very positive in the early stages. The away team kept the ball better and attacked well down their right side, forcing Knowle to clear lines on a number of occasions. The Knowle backline dealt well with the pressure however, and Byrne made an excellent recovery tackle when the Westfields forward seemed to be free in the box to shoot. Knowle stepped up their game in response and soon had their fifth goal, working the ball out from a goal kick all the way up the pitch to score at the other end. Sam Smith took the ball short and carried it forward before finding fellow centre half Byrne. She played in to Barlow who was able to splay a ball out to the right wing where Betteridge was storming forward and beat the full back with pace and strength. Her shot across goal may have been creeping in at the far post, but Lucy Horsburgh had followed in and smashed it over the line to make sure no defenders could clear. Betteridge was also now on corner duty after Shaw had departed the action for Ebony Harris, and had another assist from there five minutes later. Her ball was inch perfect swinging into the 6 yard area and Belcher rose highest to plant her header into the net and put Knowle 6-0 up.

Wheatstone returned to the action on the 70th minute and immediately caused Westfields problems by charging down the keeper’s clearance but she couldn’t quite find the room to turn and shoot the loose ball. She then had a one on one opportunity after Abbotts played her in, but the away side’s keeper stuck out a leg and stopped her shot, before saving a spectacular volleyed effort from Abbotts herself. Knowle were playing with style and confidence now, passing it around in the Westfield half and clever approach play allowed them to set up both Barlow and Kate Fleming for chances on the edge of box but both were off target. The Robins nearly scored again from a corner; Belcher’s attempt was going wide but Smith slid in to stop it on the touchline near the post and flick it backwards towards goal, but the defender blocked it on the line. Knowle grabbed a seventh and Rolph finally had a deserved hat-trick from the very next play though; she raced through on goal and rolled it past the oncoming keeper easily. The striker came close again just before the final whistle, rattling a shot off the post after Abbotts and Wheatstone worked the ball to her on the right side of the box, but Knowle had to settle for seven.

Knowle well worth the win and the score line did not flatter them, despite Westfields’ continued determination and impressive spirit. Plenty of excellent football on show and the Robins will need that and much more when they face up to Tier 3 side Wolverhampton Wanderers next week in the County Cup. 2pm kick off at home for that one!

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Betteridge, Smith Byrne, Shaw, Fleming, Barlow, Holland, Wheatstone, Belcher, Rolph.

Subs: Horsburgh (for Wheatstone, 35), Abbotts (for Fleming 35), Harris (for Shaw, 57), Jones (for Holland, 57).

Unused Sub: Keen.

Photos: Demi Rolph scores her second, and Alice Belcher buries her first of the game. Photo credit for header and below: Dave Lockie Photography - https://www.facebook.com/DaveLockiePhotography/

One Momentary Loss of Concentration Costs Knowle

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 13:01:18 GMT

18th December 2021 - Knowle FC 0-1 Fairfield Villa

Ronald Crane reports from the Draintech Community Ground

There was very little between these two sides. As the scoreline would suggest, defences were on top for this much of this game played in dim and damp conditions.

Right from the first whistle, the Robins had the ball in the net only for it to be pulled back for an offside decision. This failed attack was followed by one for the visitors. That by one for the Robins, and so on. It was to be the theme of the afternoon.

Although there were plenty of attacks, attempts on target were at a premium. Only twelve in the whole ninety minutes, with most of these coming in the first half. Both sets of defenders were well on the top of their game. However, the method of attack was different. Villa were able to play the ball through mid-field, whereas the Robins rarely managed this. Jack Tregartha made a couple of top notch saves, but Tom Walker between Villa’s posts had a relatively easy afternoon.

Watching the action, one was beginning to think the match had a goalless draw written all over it. Then we had a moment, just a brief moment, of loss of concentration from the Robins. CONNER PERRY-HOLMES was involved in naughtiness down by the Knowle defensive left for which he received a yellow card. A Villa corner followed and who should be unmarked at the far post to turn the ball into the net? Yes, that is correct Connor Perry-Holmes. It was the one lapse that would cost the Robins the game.

Villa did weather the Robins storm from the goal to the break. They even survived spirited appeals for a Penalty when it seemed Nathan Corry was fouled in the area, the Referee was adamant that it was not a penalty, and even booked Corry for simulation. Robins’ supporters were incandescent, but to no avail.

After the re-start things did get a little heated and the strength of the tackles increased. However, it was never a dirty game, yet at the final whistle Referee Phillip Lindsey had six names in his book.

Dylon Bennett did not appear for the second half and the Robins did miss his presence. Their ability to play through midfield was even more restricted now. They resorted to play long balls over the top, or out to the channels. Villa lapped up both. As the final whistle approached, the Robins became ever more desperate. It did them no good. Villa managed the game out well. Although most neutrals I spoke to, thought a draw would have been a fair result, it was that one lapse of concentration the ultimately cost the Robins the points as they fell to their second defeat this term.

Knowle FC: Tregatha; McArdle; Arthur; Andrews; Delaney ©; Fox; Morris; Bennett (Regan); Corry; Bailey (Galloway); Cullen (Payne). Sub not used Sinton.

Penalties again for the Ladies!

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 12:56:49 GMT

19th December 2021 - Knowle Ladies 1-1 Coventry Sphinx (4-3 pens)

Was anybody really surprised when Knowle Ladies faced up to another penalty shoot-out following a home cup tie? Every single one so far this season has ended in this manner!

There was some doubt before kick off whether the game would go ahead as thick fog descended on Hampton Road. The referee was happy all of the pitch was visible though, so the players headed out into the mist to start the game – and what a start it was for Knowle. In the second minute of the game, Poppy Wheatstone picked up the ball around the halfway line, skipped past one challenge and played a perfect through ball to her strike partner Demi Rolph. The young forward raced towards goal and finished perfectly past the keeper to give Knowle a 1-0 lead. It looked as though that lead may not last too long when Coventry Sphinx carved out what turned out to be their best two chances of the game. Firstly the team in blue put together a good move to free up an attacker in plenty of space in the area, but she blazed her shot over the bar. Soon after another good chance came in a one on one, but keeper Katy Smirthwaite pulled out a good save. Still only ten minutes in, a frantic start to the game to say the least, but it did then settle. Coventry Sphinx had the vast majority of possession, keeping the ball very well but Knowle had settled and set up their shape to frustrate the higher league opponents. A header from a corner was one of the few clear chances they created, but the attempt sailed over the crossbar. When Knowle did win possession, they tried to attack quickly and from one such move Alice Belcher and Jess Barlow combined to set Wheatstone up. She attempted to round the keeper, but the goalie got a touch which sent the ball too far in front of Knowle’s forward and the defender was able to get back to ease Wheatstone away from goal. Good work from Rach Keen down the right side then set up Jess Holland for a long range attempt, but the keeper gathered well.

The second half also started well for Knowle; Barlow won a challenge in the middle of the park and played back to Emma Shaw. Her pass allowed Rolph to run at the defence once more and she outpaced both defenders but the keeper came out to make a good save. Sphinx were still enjoying a much larger share of possession than the Robins, but Knowle were working hard to restrict any efforts on goal. They benefitted from being able to bring on fresh legs in the form of substitute Morgan Betteridge and Camile Abbotts, with the latter showing some assured touches in midfield to keep possession and the former making several runs down the right side to offer an option in attack. One such attack led to a Knowle corner; Shaw’s in swinging ball in was inch perfect but Maz Byrne was unable to connect on the stretch. Coventry were struggling to break down Knowle’s backline so attempted to play balls over the top and through the gaps, but Smirthwaite was alive to this and came out to claim everything in her penalty area. Byrne did well to clear a dangerous cross and Barlow protected the backline by blocking two shots from the edge of area. The game began to peter out and it seemed Knowle would put it beyond the reach of their opponents in the last minute when Betteridge raced through with the ball to create an overload of three Knowle attackers against one Sphinx defender. The defender did well to steal possession though, and that gave Coventry time to launch one more attack. Incredibly, this time the hopeful ball into the box caused confusion in the Knowle defence, with Smirthwaite’s clearance smashing into Byrne and looping back towards goal, leaving the Sphinx skipper with the easy task of slotting home for a 92nd minute equaliser.

One all the final score and so the game went straight to penalties; a familiar situation for Knowle of course. It looked like this shoot out might not go the Robins way when the Coventry keeper pulled off an excellent save from Belcher’s first kick. However, whilst Sam Smith, Rolph, Byrne all buried their attempts, Sphinx’s third pen hit the post and the fourth one was hit wide, leaving Wheatstone with the opportunity to win it for the Knowle. She duly smashed her penalty into the net to give Knowle a 4-3 penalty win and send them into the quarter finals of the County Cup.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Keen, Byrne, Smith, Shaw, Belcher, Barlow, Holland, Harris, Wheatstone, Rolph.

Subs: Horsburgh (for Wheatstone, 43), Betteridge (for Harris, 43), Abbotts (for Holland, 59), Jones (for Shaw, 68).

Robins Caught Cold But Recover To Put Heat On Earls

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 17:23:24 GMT

11th December 2021 - Knowle FC 4-1 Earlswood Town

Ronald Crane reports from the Draintech Community Ground

After this match, the Robin’s Assistant Manager, Ash Weeks told me, “It was a game of two halves. I thought Dylon Bennett changed the game. We gave a really good second half performance.”

That sums this match up rather well. With Clive Seeley serving suspension, Ash was left in charge. On a grey, dull, and damp Saturday afternoon, the Robins were caught cold from the first. Earlswood Town started with gusto, purpose, and verve. In the first minute, Knowle lost the ball in mid-field. Town poured forward. Jack Tregartha miss-kicked. The Earls made the most of the situation. Lucky for the Robins the ball finally went for a Goal-Kick. It was a warning of things to come; a warning Knowle did not heed.

Jordan McKenzie was a real thorn in Knowle’s side, or to be more accurate – defence. He was unlucky with a couple of shots, but on six minutes, Knowle once again lost the ball in mid-field. McKENZIE raced on to beat defender and ‘Keeper to open the scoring. It was no more than the visitors deserved.

Far from spurring The Robins on, the goal seemed to have the reverse effect. Passes went astray. The ball skidded under players feet. The mid-field was not so much misfiring, as absent. What made matters even worse, was that the harder they tried, the worse they got!

The game was all Earlswood’s. The Robins were second best in every respect, and one feared a second goal for the Earls would be decisive. However, as the first half continued, the Earls seemed to run out of steam, or ideas. Lewis Cosgrove began to play a real Captain’s part. He drove his colleagues on. His instructions from the back dragged Knowle into the game. He convinced hie teammates that it was not a lost cause.

Just after the half-hour mark, we had an ugly scene. A clash involving Nathan Corry off the ball, brought twenty players, and some from the bench, into a real scrum. Referee Joseph Coyle and his Assistant, Guy Thrower, were on hand. When all cooled down, Corry and Street were shown yellow cards. Before this incident one felt that trouble was brewing. Yet the actions of Referee Coyle and Assistant Thrower, calmed it all down.

Jack Tregartha made a wonderful save late on in the half to keep the home side in the game. There was still time for George Seeley go down with what appeared to be a Ham-String injury. He was in a bad way and immediately replaced by Dylon Bennett. It was to be the change that altered everything. As the players trouped into the Dressing Rooms for the break, the crowd around me were wondering what the second half would bring.

With Earlswood Town taking an age at free and goal kicks, there were shouts from the crowd for more yellow cards. Yet with ten minuets added time for the first period, it seemed that Mr Coyle dealt with the situation in a subtle way. Whatever happened in the home dressing room, whatever Ash Weeks said at half time, it altered everything. At the re-start Dylon Bennett’s presence meant Knowle could control the game. Passes found their destination. Balls controlled first time. Eleven individuals became a team.

It took just one minute for this to manifest itself. There was action in the Earls Area, appeals for a penalty were turned down and as play continued, Earls ‘Keeper Farr parried the ball away only for CHARLIE MORRIS to tap home the equalizer. From this moment on the Robins were in control. LEWIS COSGROVE headed powerfully into the net from a corner to take the lead. This followed a tremendous save by Farr.

Although Town did not give in, doing all they could to make progress, it was beyond them. TOM CULLEN responded well when Farr kicked the ball straight to him, making no mistake to add a third goal. Deep into added time, new boy PETER BAILEY capped his debut by latching on to a wonderful cross from the left and making the score four. This flattered Knowle somewhat, but the change in their second half performance certainly deserved the win, with Dylon Bennett man of the match.

Knowle FC: Tregatha; McArdle; Payne; Andrews; Cosgrove [63]; Fox; Morris [46] (Arthur); Regan (Bailey [90+4]); Corry; Seeley (Bennett); Cullen [80]. Sub not used Delaney.

Knowle’s next Match: On Saturday 18th December 2021, Knowle are at home to Fairfield Villa for a MFL Division Two match. Kick off at Hampton Road, is at 1400. It will be another tough match.

Ladies Pay the Price

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 23:04:14 GMT

5th December 2021 - Knowle Ladies 1-2 Solihull Sporting

Both sides had been eagerly awaiting this fixture and the game lived up to its billing, a fine advert for WMRFL football. That will be no consolation to the Knowle side however, who went away wondering how they had lost the game.

Knowle started very brightly, pushing Solihull back into their own half and dominating possession. The away side defended stoutly however, clearing any danger away from their penalty area and not allowing any clear cut chances for the first fifteen minutes. Poppy Wheatstone was first to try her luck for Knowle when a bit of space did open up, hitting a speculative effort from the edge of the area that the Solihull keeper handled confidently. The next chance was far more clear cut; an incisive Knowle move involving Wheatstone and midfielders Gina Burton and Annie Stanway carved straight through Sporting to find Jess Barlow in acres of space at the back post. She set herself well but sliced her shot just wide of the upright. Solihull then went ahead with their first attack of the game on fifteen minutes; a cross field ball found it’s way to the number ten 25 yards from goal. She hit an early shot and there seemed to be no danger as it bounced through to the Knowle goal, but the previously inactive keeper Katy Smirthwaite misjudged it and it bobbled through her arms and into the net. That galvanised Sporting and they won a couple of corners which Knowle cleared well. The game was now swinging end to end. Wheatstone was outpacing the Sporting defence and she swung a great cross in that just evaded Alice Belcher and Stanway, before the Sporting forward wriggled free on the edge of the box and forced Smirthwaite to push away her shot. Knowle made a double substitution and bought Demi Rolph and Natalie Gibson on to add pace and guile, and Rolph nearly made an immediate impact when she went one on one with the keeper, but the goalie blocked her attempt and gathered the loose ball. Jess Holland's performance at right back was excellent throughout and she saved Knowle with some important cover work, whipping the ball off the toes of the forward when she could have been clean through. There was just enough time remaining in the half for Gibson to tee Stanway up but her shot was saved by the goalkeeper, then the half finished with a bizarre offside decision that stopped Belcher in her tracks as she raced onto Burton’s through ball.

Knowing they needed to go for a win, Knowle switched formation and the new shape enabled them to put more pressure on Sporting by increasing numbers up top. Rolph was a constant thorn in the away side’s defence and Gibson able to play her in beyond the backline to shoot at goal on a couple of occasions. The keeper proved equal to one attempt and the other flew into the side netting however. Burton was also dictating play in the middle of the park during a sparkling debut and she got her reward on the hour mark when she got on the end of a fine Knowle move; Gibson played in Rolph who skipped past her defender and squared for Burton to fire home the equaliser. Solihull nearly struck back immediately with a free kick that flew across the face of goal, but from that point on it was all Knowle. The Solihull keeper made a terrific double save, blocking Burton’s first attempt then flying across goal to deny Rolph with the rebound. Gibson and Burton combined with a flurry of passes which led to the latter squaring for Rolph to knock into the net, but she was called offside. The keeper was back in action soon after, saving Burton’s low attempt with an outstretched foot. As Knowle pushed forward, Solihull were able to exploit a bit of space and their forward should have done better when played in but she hurried her shot and blazed over the bar. Knowle defence were standing firm though, Maz Byrne and Sam Smith sweeping up any danger when the team in blue did attack. However, it looked like they may score another strange goal when a cross swung in the wind to squeeze between Smirthwaite and the front post, but to Knowle’s relief it floated across goal and bounced off the base of the far post. The Robins then went agonisingly close again; Stanway’s attempt was palmed back towards goal, but the keeper somehow scrambled back to claw it away despite the Knowle players’ appeals and Belcher’s attempt to make sure the ball crossed the white line. As time began to run out, Knowle continued to press and Sporting played long when they could, winning a corner from one such counter attack. The first header bounced back off the bar straight to the attacker’s feet and she gleefully smashed it home to give her side a 1-2 lead in the 90th minute. Knowle were unable to create anything clear in the last minute to leave Solihull celebrating.

A great game for the neutral to watch, but Knowle will be left rueing those missed chances and wondering what might have been. The win puts Sporting in pole position for the league title, but the Robins will continue to chase them all the way. They play again at home in the league next week, facing Rugby Town in a 2pm kick off.

Line up: Smirthwaite, Keen, Smith, Byrne, Holland, Barlow, Fleming, Burton, Stanway, Belcher, Wheatstone.

Subs: Gibson (for Wheatstone, 25), Rolph (for Barlow, 25).

Unused: Betteridge, Harris, Horsburgh.

Men's First Team Continue Their Good Form

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 12:23:26 GMT

20th November 2021 - Coventry Alvis 0-2 Knowle FC

Dave Sykes reports from the Recreation Ground

Knowle FC made the eagerly awaited trip to the little village of Fairfield near Bromsgrove; 3rd place Villa were fully motivated for the game against their 2nd place rivals so we all settled down to watch a full-blooded encounter.

Knowle were quickly into their stride in a 4-3-3 formation that produced a fluent attacking style that caused massive problems for the hosts. Nathan Corry was first to make an impact but after embarrassing the full back once, Corry then came in for some very harsh treatment. This left him limping and the Knowle contingent furious that the referee hadn’t shown his adversary a card. However, the full back got his comeuppence when he tripped Corry in the area and he himself took a very confident penalty. Fairfield did offer a threat but it was Knowle who looked the more dangerous throughout the first half. It was no surprise when the Robins went two up when Hague was slipped through by the excellent Dylon Bennett. He turned his marker, which allowed him space to plant the ball into the bottom corner of the net. With Knowle now thinking more about protecting their lead, Villa came more into the game although skipper Louis Cosgrove nearly gave the visitors a three-goal cushion with a powerful header just before the break but it flashed over the bar.

It was Villa who needed to respond in the second half. Respond they did with two changes in personnel and a new dynamic pressing game that gave them far more possession than they had in the first half. Keeper Jack Tregartha became the central figure for the rest of the match. He caught crosses cleanly, cleared dangerous balls with firm punches and proved a tremendous shot stopper. Sam Delaney and skipper Louis Cosgrove were immense at the back with full backs Jay Payne and Christian McArdle digging in and providing excellent cover. Cosgrove almost made it three from a pin point free kick from Payne but it was nearly all Fairfield. The biggest cheer from the Knowle contingent, apart from applauding Tregartha’s saves, came when the referee finally cautioned the full back who had brought a premature end to Nathan Corry’s part in the game. Back to Tregartha in the Knowle goal. He was finally beaten with 10 minutes plus stoppage time to go. A free kick saw ‘Tregs’ commit one way but a slight deflection off the wall saw the ball just avoid has frantic effort to keep it out. Knowle dug in. They brought on Callum Regan and Ryan Andrews to stiffen up the midfield but Villa had their tails up. Shots went high, wide and handsome or Tregartha saved them. Knowle had some guilt edged breakaway chances when both Hague (twice) and Cullen found themselves clear with two or three defenders chasing them down. Knowle supporters questioned the referee’s ability to understand the concept of counting down 4 minutes of stoppage time. Then the outstanding Tregartha had his true moment of glory. Spectators couldn’t believe he managed to keep out a shot from point blank range. Fairfield knew it wasn’t to be their day at that moment. Their manager came over to the Knowle management team (Clive Seeley, Ashley Weeks and Gary Ingram) after that save in an act of true sportsmanship.

It was a fantastic effort from Fairfield but an even better rear guard action from Tregartha and his cohorts. After three marvellous results in recent games against our nearest challengers, Knowle now move forward with leaders Cadbury in their sights!

Away Joy For Knowle Once Again

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 16:47:47 GMT

13th November 2021 - Fairfield Villa 1-2 Knowle FC

Dave Sykes reports from the Recreation Ground

Five Star Display from Ladies

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 15:08:49 GMT

7th November 2021 - Knowle Ladies 5-0 Leamington Lions

Knowle Ladies were keen to prove themselves in a match that had been billed as a top of table clash and so they set out to stamp their authority early on. Leamington enjoyed some early possession, but could not settle enough to create an opportunity in the face of the home side’s high tempo. A crunching tackle from Alice Belcher and a sharp Poppy Wheatstone shot that flew wide set the tone and warned of things to come from Knowle’s two best performers on an afternoon where the whole squad rose to the occasion. Knowle went ahead after just six minutes; good hold up play and quick feet by Jess Barlow enabled Annie Stanway to set Wheatstone free in the box. The keeper got a touch to her shot but could not keep it out the net and the forward was able to celebrate her first Knowle goal. Leamington responded well, clipping balls down the wing and forcing a series of corners but the Knowle backline dealt with them well, Rach Keen and Maz Byrne clearing the crosses. Knowle went forward again and won a free kick which spelled danger as soon as Natalie Gibson stepped up. She pinged her shot against the underside of the crossbar and there was some confusion as to whether it had crossed the line, but Belcher followed up to ram the ball into the net and save the argument. The midfielder was at it again two minutes later, exchanging one twos with Barlow before finishing across goal to give The Robins a 3-0 lead. Playing with confidence now, Knowle had their best spell of the game with some sweeping football that moved the ball forwards up the pitch and switched play from wing to wing. A goalmouth scramble followed another Gibson free kick but the Leamington keeper was brave to pounce on the loose ball, and attempts by Stanway and Jess Holland were also saved well. Wheatstone was causing the Leamington backline no end of problems with her work rate and she started and finished the move that led to Knowle’s fourth. She robbed the full back of possession and laid a pass back to Morgan Betteridge in support. Good play by her and Stanway played Wheatstone in behind and she slammed an unstoppable shot inside the post from a tight angle. To their credit, Leamington regrouped and finished the first half well, defending strongly and pushing forward more. The forwards managed to get in behind Knowle out wide on a couple of occasions but were unable to create chances other than a skidding near post attempt that Katy Smirthwaite fielded well. Knowle were well worth their 4-0 halftime lead however.

A change of shape helped Leamington in the second period and Knowle were perhaps guilty of taking their foot off the pedal with the game becoming a more even affair. Knowle should have extended the lead within the first five minutes though, great play by Belcher skipping past a few challenges and then squaring to Wheatstone, but she couldn’t connect properly when it seemed the hat trick was there for the taking. Tiah Underhill and Emma Shaw had joined the fray at halftime and the former had to defend strongly when isolated on the back post to stop a Leamington attack. Knowle were losing their shape somewhat and that left holes for Leamington attacks. Their best chance of the game fell soon after when Knowle lost possession in a dangerous position and the away side’s midfield picked out a great through ball. The striker placed her shot just wide of the post however, leaving Knowle’s clean sheet intact. The Ladies adjusted to tighten up, and that brought about a brighter spell again. Rach Keen won the ball with a good tackle and bombed forward to overload the Leamington backline. She slid a pass out to Shaw and continued on for the return on the edge of box before curling a shot that the away team’s keeper saved well. The team in yellow continued to try and break Knowle resistance, but were limited to long range efforts that didn’t prove difficult for Smirthwaite in the main, although she was forced into making one excellent save down to her right to push the ball wide. Substitute Lucy Horsburgh picked up where Wheatstone left off, harassing the Leamington defence and she nearly created a golden opportunity for Camile Abbotts with her pressing, but the defender was able to get back and pinch the ball. Knowle did score their fifth eventually though; and it was Belcher who notched her hat trick, skipping past the defender and firing into the top right corner after tremendous work by Shaw in midfield enabled Abbotts to pick her out Belcher's run. Knowle saw off the last ten minutes of the game confidently and the whistle blew on a 5-0 victory.

Great performance from the team and really pleasing to see all 16 members of the squad play a part. The work rate and football needed to be high quality to beat the only side in the league still with a 100% record, but the squad stepped up in impressive style. Next up is the big FA Cup game against Netherton; 1pm kick off for that away tie. There’s still seats available on the coach if anyone wants to come support the team!

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Keen, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Barlow, Gibson, Holland, Belcher, Stanway, Wheatstone.

Subs: Underhill (for Betteridge, 45), Shaw (for Holland, 45), Abbotts (for Barlow, 63) Horsburgh (for Wheatstone, 70), Harris (for Keen, 80)

Robins Win the Tactical Battle

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 15:02:03 GMT

6th November 2021 - Coton Green 0-2 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from the New Mill Lane

This game had been eagerly awaited as the match of the day in Division Two of the Midland Football League. Not surprising, it turned out to be an action-packed afternoon. With so many ex-Knowle players in the Coton Green line-up it was always going to be a feisty affair.

The Robins named a radical line-up with George Seeley at full back! The match could not have begun better for the visitors, as in the very first minute, the unmarked Brandon HAGUE turned home a peach of a cross from the right.

Stunned Coton Green tried their best to pressure Knowle, but were thwarted over and again with stout defending and brilliant mid-field play. Dylon Bennett being the pick of a very bright bunch.

With Coton Green having the major share of possession, Knowle were content to let them play until they neared the Penalty Area, and then step in to claim the ball.

As the first half progressed, Knowle secured more possession, and eight minutes from the break another cross from the right was half saved before Tom CULLEN tapped into the empty net to double the lead.

From the re-start, it seemed that Coton Green had woken up. They forced a corner, from which Knowle had to clear the ball off the goal line. As we all went for a well- deserved cup of tea, the score read Coton Green nil, Knowle two. It was no more than the visitors were worth.

Coton Green came out of the blocks for the second period like an express train with two attacks in the first couple of minutes. However, Knowle were well aware of their opponents’ tactics, and set about a smothering operation. Whenever Coton Green had the ball, the player was attended by two, sometimes three Robins, usually with another to spare.

With both sides getting frustrated with the Officials, it was no surprise when Coton Green went down to ten men. Corey Powell receiving a second yellow card. The home side did their best to rescue the game, but it was far too late, and too many of their players knew it was a lost cause. They were reduced to pumping long, high balls forwards. This proved meat and drink to the Knowle defenders.

As we entered the fourth quarter of the match, Knowle used their flanks to great effect and managed the game really well. Brandon Hague, among others, hugged the touch-line and found the corner flag a real friend. It was an object lesson on how to hold on to what one already had without any danger of conceding.

This was a really good win for the Robins against one of their closest rivals. All now look forward to the return match at Hampton Road.

Knowle FC: Tregatha; McArdle; Morris; Fox (Regan); Cosgrove; Delaney; Corry (Arthur); Bennett; Hague [1]; Seeley (Andrews); Cullen [37]. Subs not used Payne & Galloway.

Knowle’s next Match: On Saturday 13th November 2021, Knowle are away at Fairfield Villa. Kick-off at Stourbridge Road, Fairfield, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 9LZ, is at 1400. It will be another tough match, as once again it is second playing third.

LADIES MAKE HISTORY

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 13:00:10 GMT

24th October 2021 - Knowle Ladies 3-3 Loughborough Students
(5-4 on pens)

If ever you needed proof that the female section of Knowle FC is going from strength to strength, you only needed to look around Hampton Road on Sunday afternoon. A crowd of just under 140 people including girls and parents from every junior girls’ team roared on Knowle Ladies to victory in the FA Cup, putting them in the hat for the First Round proper for the first time in their history.

In truth, it wasn’t the team’s best performance of the season, but at 4.30pm after a penalty shoot out, that fact hardly mattered to anyone. Earlier in the day it was a worry however; Knowle started slowly, with Loughborough on top for the first fifteen minutes. The away side went ahead with their first shot of the match, the left winger working an opening for the centre forward with good work out wide. Sam Smith made the tackle in the box, but the ball flew out to the edge of the area where the Loughborough forward had enough space to drill it into the corner of the net. The Students thought they had doubled their lead soon after, but the striker was standing a good few yards offside when she received the pass into the box. Knowle seemed to wake up then; they dragged themselves into the game by keeping possession a little better and getting their challenges in. Demi Rolph hit a snapshot wide before Kate Fleming volleyed her attempt from a Natalie Gibson free kick past the post as well. Loughborough continued to use the wide areas well, spraying the ball from side to side and it nearly led to another goal for them, with the number eleven beating a defender and then dinking it over Smirthwaite, but Smith was able to get back and slide in to clear off the line. At the other end, the Loughborough keeper clawed one out from under the crossbar away from the challenge of Gibson as Annie Stanway’s corner caused mayhem. Knowle were on top now and Gibson grabbed the equaliser on the 40 minute mark; she swung a deep free kick into the box that the Loughborough keeper misjudged and it bounced through into the net. Lucy Jones played two dangerous crosses into the area that Knowle should really have done better with before they did manage to go ahead. This time it was the high press that worked to perfection; Stanway and Rolph forcing the away side defenders into playing risky balls and then Alice Belcher nipped in to steal it away and race though on goal. The keeper got a foot to her left footed shot, but it wasn’t enough to keep it. The Robins didn’t really want halftime to come as they were enjoying a great spell, but going in 2-1 to the good after a shaky start was a bonus.

Sure enough, the break galvanised Loughborough and they were sharp early on, pushing Knowle back in their own half. The pressure told when Knowle gave away a cheap free kick on the edge of the box; Loughborough’s attempt was pretty central but Katy Smirthwaite could only punch it into the roof of the net rather than over the bar. The Students tails were up and they piled forward, flashing a cross across the six yard line and firing a couple of long range attempts into Smirthwaite’s hands. They went 3-2 ahead directly from a corner, the right footed in-swinger tempted Smirthwaite to claim but she couldn’t get round traffic quick enough. With 28 minutes left on the clock to haul Loughborough back again, Knowle bought on Poppy Wheatstone from the bench and she made a real difference, holding the ball with her back to goal and putting defenders under pressure. Her good work gave Gibson a chance to shoot, but it flew high. Knowle were still having to defend, clearing away several crosses into the box and on one occasion exploding the match ball! Tiah Underhill also did well to track her winger all the way across the pitch before blocking her shot. The Students nearly scored from the resulting corner, Smith won the initial header but Knowle let the second ball bounce. The attacker fired her shot at goal but this time Smirthwaite made a great reaction save then Rach Keen cleared the lines. In the last ten minutes, Knowle threw caution to the wind and filled the box for every set piece. Maz Byrne nodded Stanway’s corner just over the bar before Loughborough cleared Gibson’s free kick well and looked to be on the break, but Wheatstone tracked all the way back to put the tackle in. Wheatstone then skipped past a couple of challenges out wide before being blocked off, and this time Gibson’s corner delivery was spot on and Knowle’s skipper was not to be denied! Byrne rose high in the centre of goal to plant her header past the keeper. Cue wild celebrations on the pitch and in the stands as that 95th minute equaliser proved to be the last kick of the game, so Knowle were flying high as they went into the shootout.

That momentum certainly proved important as the Robins scored all five of their kicks; Gibson, Belcher, Smith, Fleming and Rolph each hammering great penalties past the keeper. Loughborough kept pace with four good penalties of their own, but the fifth was always going to be the pressure kick and so it proved. Smirthwaite dived to her left to get two hands to the shot and beat it away, and scenes of absolute bedlam followed! The Knowle players and coaches smothered Smirthwaite before celebrating with all the supporters round the ground. It was harsh on Loughborough who had been the better side in terms of possession and chances, but Knowle’s grit and determination not to let the game go also deserved a reward. What a day though – and one that so many members of the club shared thanks to the phenomenal atmosphere and big crowd. Thank you to everyone who came down, and in particular the super U8 Swifts (plus one U10 Griffin) who were the team’s lucky matchday mascots and the U15 Wasps for selling programmes! We’ll see you all in the next round hopefully – but first there is a home league game against Sedgley and Gornal next Sunday, 2pm kick off.

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Keen, Smith, Byrne, Jones, Barlow, Belcher, Gibson, Stanway, Rolph.

Subs: Wheatstone (for Barlow, 62), Underhill (for Jones, 65), Horsburgh (for Stanway, 85)

Robins go 1 over the 8!

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 12:53:21 GMT

23rd October 2021 - Knowle FC 9-0 Bolehall Swifts

Ronald Crane reports from the Draintech Community Ground

This was just the performance that Knowle needed, following the debacle last week. Even so, the men in red were slow to start. It was Swifts who made the early running. They passed the ball around rather well, but without having any penetration. After ten minutes Fox burst from defence right into the heart of the visitors area. A corner was his reward, from which Cosgrove hit the post!

It was the stimulus The Robins needed. A couple of minutes later the home side made the first of many great moves down both flanks. This time it was the right ball, Charlie MORRIS tapped home to open the scoring. One feared for the visitors, their body language was already a concern. These moves by The Robins along their flanks were like a knife cutting through soft butter.

With Clive Seeley’s men totally on top, it was no surprise when Lewis COSGROVE looped home the second goal. From now on, time and time again we saw beautiful flowing football from the home side. Every single man in red produced the highest of performances. On the half hour mark, Nathan Corry sent over the perfect cross, once more from the right, for George SEELEY to turn the ball home. Shortly after this, Jack Tregartha saved well from Swifts’ Whiteman. It was to be the first of just two shots on target the visitors managed all afternoon.

With many in the stands thinking about a cup of tea, Brandon HAGUE scored one of his trademark goals from eighteen yards. With Knowle four to nil at the break, the match was essentially over as a contest. But would Bolehall manage to improve for the second forty-five minutes?

To their credit, Bolehall Swifts kept to their principles, trying to play the ball out from the back, and on the ground through mid-field. Admirable principles, but do they have the players confident and capable enough to accomplish them? Huge credit to the visitors, they never gave in and kept to their principles. No nasty stuff. No haranguing the Officials. Infact Mr Lane and his two Assistants had an easy afternoon, with little to do. This was a credit to both sides.

The second half began slowly. It is, of course difficult to get motivated for another forty-five minutes when one is already four to the good. It took twenty-two minutes for The Robins to click into top gear again. Make no mistake they were on top for the whole game. In defence, stout and solid. In mid-field flowing and confident. In attack, purposeful and dangerous. Yet somehow, it was just not motoring as before. That all changed when another flowing move on the left flank resulted in the gilt-edged cross. It was duly thumped home by George SEELEY. Five minutes later Jay PAYNE made it six. As we moved into the end game, first Charlie MORRIS, and then Nathan CORRY rubbed salt into Bolehall Swifts wounds. In added time CORRY made it nine. It was a drubbing by any standards, and afterwards there was much soul searching in the visitors’ camp. They have much work to do.

For The Robins, this result must not go to their heads. They will not find things as easy as this, many times this season. Certainly not next Saturday for the visit of high-flying Kenilworth Sporting.

Knowle FC: Tregatha; McArdle; Payne; Cosgrove; Fox; Delaney (Arthur); Morris; Bennett (Regan); Hague; Seeley (Galloway); Corry.

No Subs not used.

Att: 37

Knowle FC Next Match - Saturday 30th October 2021: Knowle FC v Kenilworth Sporting FC MFL Division 2. KO 1500.

GIBSON AND FLEMING SEAL GOOD WIN FOR THE LADIES

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 11:23:17 GMT

17th October 2021 - Knowle LFC 2-0 Kingfisher

“Start strong” was the message in the pre-match Knowle LFC huddle. When Natalie Gibson teed up Camile Abbott to smash a thunderbolt shot against the inside of the post not thirty seconds into the match, it was clear the Robins had done just that. In truth, Kingfisher could not deal with Knowle in the first twenty minutes of the game and the home side should really have notched two or three goals in order that the score line reflected their dominance. Maz Byrne was centimetres away from connecting with a Gibson corner on the back post and Poppy Wheatstone was denied by the keeper coming quick off her line. Knowle were getting plenty of joy on the right side with Abbotts combining well with Morgan Betteridge and her crosses into the box were pinpoint. She picked out Wheatstone first, who struck her shot over the bar, before Jess Barlow was eased out of a simple tap in by good defending on the back post. Knowle finally got their goal from a neat passage of play, left back Rach Keen drove forward before releasing Jess Barlow into the channel. She squared across goal to Gibson who drilled it into the corner of the net for a one nil lead.

To their credit, Kingfisher regrouped and changed their shape which bought them back into the game; the remaining twenty minutes of the half was a far more even affair. The Kingfisher forward beat the Knowle backline but fired wide and Katy Smirthwaite had to scurry across her goal to beat away a long range attempt. Kingfisher’s corner delivery also looked dangerous, but the close attentions of the Knowle defenders meant that when a forward did connect, there was no power behind the header. Knowle finished the half well themselves, Wheatstone going one on one with the keeper who half blocked her attempt and the defender was able to mop up. The goalie also made a great double save from Gibson late on, after Abbotts had returned the favour from early on and set her up for a pile driver.

The second half began in much the same fashion as the first – Knowle should have had the ball in the net in the first minute. Barlow played in Alice Belcher, but she screwed her shot wide…it was actually her first touch of the game after coming on as a sub at halftime. Another Gibson corner was then clipped straight to Kate Fleming but she couldn’t connect properly and the resulting loose ball was cleared. Knowle were able to bring on yet more quality from the bench in the form of the two Lucys – Jones and Horsburgh gave the home side a different option out wide right, but the second goal actually came from the left. Barlow and Belcher traded passes, before squaring across the edge of box to Fleming and she bent her shot past the keeper for her first Knowle goal. The Robins were then perhaps guilty of taking their foot off the pedal, plus Kingfisher threw caution to the wind to chase the game. The away side were unlucky not to get a goal in the last twenty minutes; firstly they had an attempt from a corner cleared off the line by the alert Barlow and Knowle eventually cleared the resulting scramble. Soon after, the Kingfisher forward ran clear through to a ball that had flicked off two Knowle defenders, she beat Smirthwaite but her shot thudded against the base of the post. Tiah Underhill also saved Knowle when the Kingfisher skipper, who had been excellent all afternoon, raced through – debutant Underhill was quick to react and cover her backline colleagues, snuffing out the danger. Her fellow new signing Horsburgh nearly grabbed a third for Knowle when she nipped between the away team’s keeper and defender, but the goalie recovered well to block the shot. In the last few minutes of the game, Knowle peppered the Kingfisher goal with attempts, but the keeper comfortably saved efforts from Emma Shaw, Gibson and Jones. Shaw’s resulting corner from one such attempt also found Belcher unmarked, but her effort flew over the bar.

Knowle had to be content with a 2-0 win then, but another clean sheet and plenty of chances created showed they had played well against dangerous opposition. Next week it’s the big FA Cup game against Loughborough – kick off 2pm on Sunday, all support welcome!

Knowle: Smirthwaite, Keen, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Barlow, Fleming, Holland, Abbotts, Gibson, Wheatstone.

Subs: Belcher (for Abbotts, 45), Horsburgh (for Holland, 45), Jones (for Wheatstone, 65), Underhill (for Betteridge, 71), Shaw (for Barlow, 77).

ROBINS MUTE....

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 09:51:11 GMT

16th October 2021 - Village FC 2-0 Knowle FC

Ronald Crane reports from Aston University Recreation Centre.

If The Robins were on song last Saturday, they were mute for this encounter. It was a real Groundhog Day. The match kicked off eight minutes late, Referee Bradley Totney waiting for the home team to get a late-comer kitted out.

When we did get under way, it was quickly apparent that a number of Robins’ players did not want to be there. This was a tardy Robins performance from the first to the last whistle. Only the central pairing of Delaney and Fox may claim any credit.

Clive Seeley had made five changes from last Saturday, and that could be why this performance was of eleven individuals rather than the well-oiled machine we saw against Boldmere. Whatever the reason, Knowle rarely produced any of those wonderful flowing quick passing movements through mid-field that we have become accustomed to enjoy. Instead, they resorted to hopeful punts up-field.

Village took the game by the throat sensing that they had more than a good chance. Cajoling from the Knowle Captain fell on deaf ears. The play was slow and disjointed. Instead of upping the pace, Knowle rushed at things. Kaine Williams received little service, and when he did receive the ball with back to goal – a joy to see this dying art by the way – he had limited options open to him.

There was no lack of effort by Knowle, but it was all to no avail. They harder they tried, the worse it got.

However, one felt that it was there, and patience would be rewarded. Disaster struck in the eighteenth minute. Village produced a cross from their right, the ball seemed to ricochet before a shot hit the inside of the post. The ball rebounded out at speed, hit an unsuspecting Dylon BENNETT and rebounded into the net. It was wretched luck on The Robins, but Village knew that had a real chance now. All they had to do was frustrate their opponents and not concede.

It is a tactic we have seen many times before in League matches. The misfortunate way the goal was conceded knocked a number of Knowle players back. They tried hard, but the damage had been done and the home side had enough about them to know it and capitalise upon it.

The second half started much as the first had ended. Yet as the minutes ticked by Knowle gradually got on top. Then: disaster again. A long high ball was pumped forward Alex Paterson jumped for it on the edge of the Penalty Area, along with Village ‘Keeper Oliver. Did Paterson handle the ball? Whether he did or did not became irrelevant as Oliver took him out with a terrible challenge. It took the first aid staff eight minutes to get the lad into any kind of shape to leave the field, helped by two colleagues. Now: we all wondered what the outcome would be. Was the challenge in the Area or not? If it was, then a yellow card and penalty surely? If not, would it be a straight red, as Oliver was the last man by some distance. The people on the side-lines all seemed to think they were the two options. Village were worried as their advice to the Referee made clear, Knowle hopeful. As it turned out Mr Totney showed the Goalkeeper a yellow card and awarded Knowle a free-kick outside the Area. Disbelief from the Knowle people, total joy from the Village people.

The sense of injustice felt by the visiting players could be felt by all watching. Still they did their best to force the home side back, and succeeded in this. So much so, that with a melee of players in the Village Area, the Referee awarded Knowle a penalty. Now, surely their quality would show. Jay Payne’s spot kick was saved by the stand-in Goalkeeper, he attacked the follow up only for the Assistant Referee to flag a colleague off-side.

Knowle however, continued to press forward and some Village players were showing signs of running out of steam. But they held on. We had an awful lot of added time with Village pressed back and Knowle charging forward. Of course, the inevitable happened. The impressive BELGRAVE chased a lost cause, disturbed the Knowle defence and slotted home for a second goal.

It was all over. A wretched day for Knowle, who now cannot wait to get to grips with their League campaign and the visit of Bolehall Swifts next Saturday.

Knowle FC: Tregatha; Dodd; Payne; Andrews; Fox; Delaney; Paterson (Cullen); Regan; Williams (Corry); Bennett [18og]; Galloway. Subs not used: McArdle & Seeley.

Knowle FC Next Match - Saturday 23rd October 2021: Knowle FC v Bolehall Swifts FC MFL Division 2. KO 1500.

100 APPEARANCES FOR GEORGE SEELEY

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 14:19:26 GMT

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LATEST MEMBER OF THE KNOWLE FC 100 CLUB - GEORGE SEELEY. GEORGE WAS PRESENTED HIS AWARD BY CLUB CHAIRMAN DAVID RATCLIFFE AND HIS NAME WAS ADDED STRAIGHT ONTO THE HONOURS BOARD AT THE CLUB.

100 APPEARANCES FOR CALLUM INGRAM

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 10:46:35 GMT

CONGRATULATIONS TO CALLUM INGRAM ON BEING PRESENTED WITH HIS LONG OVERDUE AWARD FOR 100 MEN'S 1ST TEAM APPEARANCES BY CLUB CHAIRMAN DAVID RATCLIFFE. ALTHOUGH CALLUM HAS NOW HUNG UP HIS BOOTS HE IS STILL AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE CLUB COACHING SOME OF OUR JUNIOR BOYS TEAMS.

LADIES EXTEND THEIR UNBEATEN RUN

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 17:26:17 GMT

10th October 2021 - Knowle Ladies 4-0 Droitwich Spa

A quirk of the fixture list, a kind cup draw and a reversed game next week mean that Knowle Ladies play 6 games in a row at home, so they were happy to start that run with a comfortable win on a balmy October afternoon at the Draintech.

Knowle made a few changes to the line-up thanks to some injury niggles, but the players that came into the side impressed throughout. The home side controlled the game from start to finish, restricting opponents Droitwich to few opportunities and enjoying plenty of chances themselves at the other end of the pitch. Knowle also had the majority of the possession throughout the first half, but were perhaps guilty of overplaying at times, missing the easy ball in favour of trying to play the killer pass. However, when they did get the decision right, they caused plenty of problems for the Droitwich backline and it only took twenty minutes to make one count. Annie Stanway collected the ball from Morgan Betteridge on the right side and danced merrily inside past a couple of defenders, before screwing her left footed shot back across goal and in at the post with the keeper rooted to the spot, expecting to have to shift to the other side. If the first goal was good, then the second was a true belter; Knowle switched play across the pitch again and dragged Droitwich out of shape to leave acres of space on the left. Rachel Keen spotted the gap and barrelled forward from full back and it was the irrepressible Stanway who spotted; rolling a pass out wide into her path. Keen took one touch to set herself, and then crashed her shot into the net from the edge of the box.

The second half played out in much the same fashion with Knowle in the ascendency; if anything, they improved their passing in the second period and created more chances. The midfield diamond of Jess Barlow, Kate Fleming, Camile Abbotts and Jess Holland were in control of the game. Emma Shaw came on early in the second half and followed suit in the holding role as well as playing in some very dangerous set pieces that the Robins should have capitalised on. Knowle did extend their lead when good play from Poppy Wheatstone and Abbotts allowed Barlow the chance to shoot and she wasn’t going to pass up the opportunity to notch her first Knowle goal, finishing in style. The fourth was also a fine finish; Stanway played Abbotts through one on one and she calmly slotted in under the keeper to cap a classy and combative player of the match performance. Knowle perhaps should have had more goals, with a couple of clear cut chances missed and the Droitwich keeper making a few good saves. The away side came closest with a free kick that was hit too centrally and a snapshot that Katy Smithwaite got down well to push round the post, but their chances were limited.

Another good performance from the team; four goals, a clean sheet and chance for different players to impress which they certainly took. Next up for the Ladies is a home game against Kingfisher, 17th October, 2pm kick off.

Knowle Starting Line Up: Smirthwaite, Keen, Smith, Byrne, Betteridge, Barlow, Fleming, Holland, Abbotts, Stanway, Rolph.

Subs: Wheatstone, Shaw. Unused: Belcher.

Picture: Camile Abbotts receives her player of the match award from Head Coach Matt Bamber. This week's awrd was sponsored by The Olive Branch Kitchen - www.3trees.org.uk/olive-branch-kitchen

ROBINS ON SONG

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 16:22:33 GMT

9th October 2021 - Knowle FC 4-0 Boldmere Falcons

The Robins go to the top of Midland Football League Division Two on goal difference, with a complete performance against Boldmere Sports and Social Falcons FC. Make no mistake, this was a total display against opponents who became demoralised well before the break. However, the visitors, to their credit, persisted in trying to play football. It was not their fault that the Robins were singing the near perfect song.

This was a wonderful advertisement for MFL Division Two football. Not one really nasty tackle the whole afternoon. Mr East, the man in black, had a relatively easy job.

Four goals, from four different scorers. The home defenders, defended; the strikers, struck; but the midfield was where the match was won. Knowle had control of the middle of the park for whole ninety minutes. All did their job very well, with the impressive Dylon Bennett the pick of a sparkling bunch.

Boldmere began by trying to stamp their mark on the occasion, but Nathan CORRY – wearing the number nine shirt, put paid to that as early as the fourth minute. Ryan Andrews on the left sent the ball forward and Corry hooked the ball home in spectacular fashion. Boldmere never recovered. Knowle never looked back.

It was not until the thirty-minute mark that the visitors had any success in terms of possession and that was snuffed out with a wonderful solo effort by Charlie MORRIS.

Before the break, Jay PAYNE let fly one of his specials, to make it three.

It surprised no-one when the visitors made three changes for the re-start. Did they fare better, or did the home side take their foot off the pedal? A bit of both perhaps?

Certainly: Knowle were not as fluent with their passing, resorting to pumping hopeful balls forward. Consequently, the match lost some of its sparkle, without The Robins ever being in danger of conceding.

Boldmere managed just one shot on target in the whole match, and that was in the ninety-third minute!

There was still time for substitute Kaine WILLIAMS to make it four when he ran on to a through ball to tap home.

This was a convincing victory. After the match Manager Clive Seeley was preening his plumage, telling me that he thought he had just seen his side’s best performance this season so far. No on will disagree with that.

Next Saturday, Knowle are away at Village 1st A in the Birmingham County Saturday Vase. A preview on Friday or Saturday morning.

Knowle FC: Tregatha; McArdle; Payne [43]; (Williams [83]); Andrews; Cosgrove ©; Delaney; Cullen (Arthur); Seeley (Fox); Corry [4]; Bennett; Morris [34]. Subs not used: Dodd & Paterson.

LADIES PROVE THEIR CLASS IN THE CUP

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 21:29:53 GMT

3rd October 2021 - Coundon Court 0-2 Knowle Ladies

Knowle Ladies produced their best performance of the season so far to beat Coundon Court away from home and go through to the next round of the FA Cup.

The first five minutes of the game saw Knowle pinned back in their own half by their opponents from the league above, and it looked like it could be a tough test for The Robins. However, they defended well and didn’t allow Coundon an attempt on goal. Knowle then took complete charge of the game and were the better side throughout the rest of the half. Maz Byrne won the ball well and clipped a pass into Natalie Gibson as she ghosted into the area but her snap shot flew inches wide of the post. Soon after, Demi Rolph had appeals for a penalty waved away after being knocked flying by a defender. Knowle were keeping possession well, playing the ball in neat triangles and finding space in behind their opponents. Once such move saw Jess Barlow and Rachel Keen link up nicely down the left side; the full back burst into the box and was only denied by a smart stop by the Coundon keeper.

Rolph was causing problems as always, and when she rolled a ball into Gibson twenty yards out, the number 10 showed her class under pressure to flick it up and hit a volley that dipped just over the bar. The goal was coming and it was Alice Belcher who put her name on the scoresheet. Kate Fleming played forward to Rolph, who held off the defender with her back to goal and laid it back to Belcher. The midfield maestro hit a first time shot that lobbed the keeper to put Knowle 1-0 up…and then celebrated the fine goal in style! The away side didn’t take their foot off the gas after taking the lead, with Barlow and Jess Holland winning plenty of possession for the team and using it intelligently, linking up well with their corresponding full backs and finding the feet of the Knowle forwards. Those passing moves resulted in a couple of attempts by Rolph being saved by the keeper before Keen once again drove into the box from the left side, but the goalie was able to get down well to her left and push the attempt away for a corner. Coundon’s only attempts were long range efforts that Katy Smirthwaite had to watch carefully in the swirling wind, but she caught them well under her crossbar. Five minutes before half time, Knowle did eventually double their lead. A Coundon midfielder attempted to head a goal kick back to her keeper, but Rolph was switched on to that; she nipped in to intercept then drilled it across the keeper and into the net at the far post. Knowle’s confidence was sky high and before the whistle blew they had time to knit together an excellent move that saw them shift the ball from left to right and finished with Gibson’s shot being smothered by the keeper.

Coundon came into the game more after half time but Knowle played it smart and kept a solid defensive shape. The whole team worked hard out of possession, with Belcher, Barlow and Holland all putting in challenges across the missed and not allowing Coundon players to find space with the ball at their feet. The home side hit a free kick well over the bar and Sam Smith had to react quickly to clear at the far post when a cross dropped kindly for the forward. Knowle then had another great spell; it looked as though Belcher would get another when the defence opened up to let her through, but the keeper was quick off her line to block. Nobody could quite work out how on earth one of Gibson’s long range efforts hadn’t flew in yet, and she came so close again with a volley after Holland and Morgan Betteridge combined well to create a dangerous attack down the right. Knowle were able to bring quality off the bench in the shape of debutant Poppy Wheatstone and midfielder Camile Abbotts, and both picked up exactly where their departing team mates left off, with high tempo pressing that kept turning over possession. Knowle thought they’d got their third from a Betteridge corner that Belcher met on the volley, but the Coundon defender blocked it on the line and the home side hacked clear. Belcher was also popping up in her own penalty area to help the defensive effort, but stretching to head away a corner she diverted the ball towards the Knowle goal, thankfully straight into Smirthwaite’s arms. That was the closest Coundon came in the second period, despite having more possession than they enjoyed in the first half. Knowle saw the game out with the same intensity they had played the 90 minutes and were able to keep the ball in the Coundon half to avoid any serious threats.

A thoroughly deserved two nil win for Knowle then and a fantastic performance they can rightly be proud of. They will look to keep up that level in their league games over the next few weeks, starting with a home match against Droitwich next Sunday, 10th October, 2pm kick off.

Knowle Starting line up: Smirthwaite, Keen, Smith, Byrne (C), Betteridge, Barlow, Belcher (26'), Fleming, Holland, Gibson, Rolph (38').

Subs: Wheatstone, Abbotts, Harris. Unused: Shaw.

HONOURS EVEN AT THE DRAINTECH

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 21:10:47 GMT

2nd October 2021 - Knowle FC 1-1 Cadbury Athletic

I suspect that both managers would have settled, prior to kick-off, for a point each. As it turned out, this match was as close as the score-line suggests.

The Robins were without George Curry and Dylon Bennett, then to make matters worse, Captain Lewis Cosgrove broke down during the warm-up. In these circumstances. Manager Clive Seeley thought it a point won. He was more than satisfied with the performance of his charges.

Both these sides are among the front-runners in Division Two of the Midland Football League, it was third playing fourth. There was a sense of excitement around the Draintech Community Ground as we all gathered for the encounter. The only disappointment was the pouring rain that obviously kept many spectators away.

It was Knowle who were to take the game by the scruff of the neck right from the first whistle. For thirty minutes they were the better side. Indeed the men in red and black would have been ahead by then, but for some slack finishing. Even so, they kept their opponents at arms length. That is, until the thirty second minute. Athletic appeared to get away with a foul in mid-field, and they took full advantage by moving the ball out to their right flank, the cross was inch perfect leaving Thomas CRAINE a simple tap-in. It was cruel on the home side, as it was the visitors first meaningful attempt on target.

The goal encouraged Athletic. It also spurred on the home side, that often led to rushed passing, and even panic. One felt the atmosphere heat up as we approached half-time, and there were one or two rather shape tackles.

Right from the re-start Athletic’s McGinn hit the inside of the Knowle goal-post. Miraculously, the ball rebounded into Jack Tregatha’s arms. He bowled the ball out Knowle turned defence into attack with Cullen hitting the Athletic’s cross-bar!

Knowle were hunting for that equalizer. They had increased the pace and pressed forward at every chance. With the clock showing fifty-eight minutes, Thomas Craine was showed a second yellow card and the inevitable red followed. Surely this was a gift to the home side?

Strangely Athletic were the dominant party after going down to ten men. Nevertheless Knowle were not to be denied. With fifteen minutes to go, a cross from the left was turned home by Tom CULLEN to bring the scores level. It was no less than Knowle deserved. Yet it was the way Athletic saw out the remaining minutes to keep their point that was impressive.

After the match I was chatting to the players of both teams. The Athletic players felt they would have won had they kept eleven men on the park, while the Knowle players thought they would have won had Athletic had eleven men until the end!

Knowle FC: Tregatha; Cullen [75]; Delaney ©; Andrews (Dodd); Fox (Payne); McArdle; Seeley (Blake); Hague; Corry; Morris. Sub not used: Cosgrove.

Knowle FC Next Match - Saturday 9th October 2021: Knowle FC v Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons FC. KO 1500.

ALL SQUARE IN LADIES' BIG LEAGUE CLASH

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 12:09:00 GMT

26th September 2021 - Solihull Sporting 1-1 Knowle LFC

It's safe to say both sides had been looking forward to this game since the fixtures were announced back in August; two teams with lofty ambitions in the league this year and who did not get the chance to play one another during last year’s curtailed season. The hot day and dry, bobbly pitch probably didn’t help with the players’ nerves and both sides made a cagey start to the game, feeling one another out and much of the play contained to the middle third of the pitch. The defenders at either end were on form, making blocks and tackles when it looked like a chance may appear and both goalkeepers mopped up anything that bounced too long. The first real shot of the game came from Knowle’s Morgan Betteridge after good work from Alice Belcher and Jess Holland transferred the ball across the pitch, but her long range effort from wide was collected well by the retreating Sporting keeper. Sporting also attempted a shot from distance shortly after that which Katy Smirthwaite pushed wide and Maz Byrne followed in to calmly clear the lines for Knowle. Sporting then took the lead when a Knowle free kick fell short, leaving several players out of position. The home side’s number ten was able to shrug off the attentions of three Knowle players on the half way line before slotting through to her forward who finished very well past Smirthwaite, despite Betteridge’s close tracking. Belcher and Demi Rolph were causing problems for Sporting, but as a team Knowle couldn’t quite find the right final ball to create a really clear opportunity. When the two speedy attackers did break through alone, the home side’s defence recovered well to stop them through sheer weight of numbers. Knowle continued to work hard to close down and make tackles; perhaps over exuberantly when Annie Stanway took out her own player Rolph near the sidelines! As the half ended, Stanway’s free kick bounced agonisingly past all the onrushing players at the back post and Sporting had a header well gathered by Smirthwaite, leaving the half time score 1-0 after a scrappy 45 minutes.

The second half saw both teams attack more and apply pressure going forward. Belcher forced a corner for Knowle early on and then Sporting fired a free kick straight at the Knowle wall. The home side had the better attacking opportunities for a spell, with a couple of crosses fizzing straight across the box and Smirthwaite making a great save with her feet to thwart probably the best chance of the game when the centre forward nipped through the Knowle defence. It was perhaps then slightly against the run of play then when the Robins equalised; Kate Fleming won the ball well in the middle and laid it off to Belcher to play a nice one two with Betteridge and break into the box. She cleverly drew the keeper before squaring to Rolph who stabbed it home from six yards. The game then opened up and went end to end, both sides striving for the win. Knowle threw debutant Keeley Wright on and shuffled Rach Keen to left back and she made an excellent tackle to stop a dangerous Solihull attack, plus combined well with Jess Barlow on the wing to curtail another promising opportunity. The away side came inches away from taking the lead when Rolph weaved her way past two challenges to go clear through on goal, but she smashed her shot against the post. Smirthwaite then had to scramble to her right to push a Sporting attempt onto the post and gather the rebound. A couple of injury stoppages disrupted the tempo of the game until Byrne decided to take matters into her own hands from the back. She won possession with a strong tackle and stormed forward deep into opposition territory brushing aside several yellow shirts before playing Rolph in. The keeper did well to save her shot then it looked like the ball may still roll into the net but the goalie was able to scramble up and get back to gather on the line. Sporting’s next foray into the Knowle box ended with the forward firing well wide but their next attempt was much closer, bouncing just inches past the far post after the winger’s mazy run pulled Knowle’s defence out of line. If that one was close, then Belcher went even closer, beating the defender to a long ball with sheer determination then attempting the lob the keeper, but her effort shaved the paint off the outside of the post. The last ten minutes of the match saw Sporting pour forward and put pressure on Knowle but the Robins stood firm and repelled everything thrown at them. Knowle’s biggest chance to break came when Wright instigated a neat passage of play that resulted in her finding room on the right, but her cross was blocked and the Solihull keeper saved Fleming’s attempt from the resulting corner. With 93 minutes on the clock, a Solihull player unfortunately suffered a medical emergency; an ambulance had to be summoned and so the referee called full time. Well done to all those who responded, particular Knowle skipper Byrne whose medical training was invaluable and who showed great sportsmanship and care in looking after the stricken player for over 40 minutes.

A 1-1 draw the final result then, competitive throughout and though perhaps neither side did quite enough to win it, both would have felt hard done by to lose it. Knowle were pleased to take a point from such a tough away game but now the league goes on the back burner as attention turns to the FA Cup tie away at Coundon Court next week.

Knowle: Smithwaite, Harris (Barlow, 30), Smith, Byrne, Betteridge (Wright, 62), Keen, Belcher, Fleming, Holland, Stanway, Rolph. (Bench unused: Abbots)

knowlefootballclub

Ladies slip to narrow cup final defeat against Walsall Women

George Revell reports live from WS1 for the second night running...

Knowle complete league and cup double with cup final triumph over Smethwick Rangers

George Revell reports from the press box in Walsall...

﻿

Cup Final Details

Two days, two big finals, one venue!

CHAMPIONS!

Knowle seal title and back-to-back promotions with dramatic late victory

﻿

14th April 2026: Ingles 1-3 Knowle FC

100 Up...Second Half Rout Sees Off Stapenhill

11th April 2026: Knowle FC 7-0 Stapenhill

Touching Distance of the Title After Battling Draw at Gornal

9th April 2026: Gornal Athletic 2-2 Knowle FC

Knowle Held by Birstall But Remain At Summit

4th April 2026: Knowle FC 1-1 Birstall United

Knowle Edge Closer to Title With Vital Away Win

31st March 2026:Leicester St Andrews 0-1 Knowle FC

Big Win Sends Ladies Top

29th March 2026: Droitwich Spa 0-6 Knowle LFC

Knowle Ladies Celebrate IWD With A 0-1 Win

8th March 2026: Bromsgrove Sporting 0-1 Knowle LFC

Knowle Net Five Again In Dominant Kirby Rout

14th March 2026: Kirby Muxloe 2-5 Knowle FC

Return to Winning Ways with hard-fought victory at Birstall

3rd March 2026: Birstall United 0-2 Knowle FC

Record-Breaking Run Ends As Knowle Held By Heather St John’s

21st February 2026: Knowle FC 1-1 Heather St Johns

Robins Are Record Breakers!

18th February 2026: Bilston Town 1-2 Knowle FC

Semi-Final Success for Ladies!

15th February 2026: Sutton United 1-4 Knowle Ladies

Cheal's On Wheels Sponsor The Kestrels

Knowle FC welcome local mobile barista van on board

Ladies Fight to a Semi Final

18th January 2026: Knowle Ladies 2-1 Long Itchington

"Just Be You" - Making a Difference

Our very own George Revell gives us an update on how the neurodiversity & NVD sessions are going...

Knowle sweep aside North Kilworth

13th January 2026: Knowle FC 3-0 North Kilworth

Five-star Robins Round Off 2025 With 17th Straight League Victory

26th December 2025: Knowle FC 5-0 Smethwick Rangers

Knowle Score Nine to Claim Top Spot

7th December 2025: Knowle FC 9-0 Allexton & New Parks

Knowle Reach Cup Semi-Finals With Impressive Win Over Gornal

18th November 2025: Gornal Athletic 1-2 Knowle FC

Knowle FC Achieves FA 3-Star Status

Recognition for the hard work of all our volunteers is well deserved

Knowle Jump Into Second With Another Win Over Copsewood

11th November 2025: Knowle FC 3-0 Copeswood Coventry

Under the Lights, On the Up: Knowle See Off Chelmsley in Style

4th November 2025: Knowle FC 3-0 Chelmsley Town

Knowle FC Floodlights!

Save the date & join us for the big switch on- 4th November

Match Preview - Nuneaton Town 20/09/25

What you need to know before the game...

Knowle FC Launch Inclusive "Just Be You" Progamme

Sponsors Etac on board to support

Dave Sykes Award Winners 2024/25

Congratulations to the new names on our honours board

Dan Lowe Appointed Marketing, PR & Communications Manager

Club continue to build off the pitch

New Ladies Management Team!

Welcome Ryan & Harriet

Ronald Crane - Rest in Peace

A tribute to our friend, Ron.

Sponsor Spotlight - PGS Global

Long standing sponsors still backing Knowle FC

Robins Do Enough

22nd March 2025: Knowle 2-0 Coventry Alvis

Ladies Forced To Settle For A Point

16th March 2025: Knowle LFC 1-1 Alvechurch

Poor Start Costs Knowle Ladies

9th March 2025: Alvechurch 5-1 Knowle LFC

Same Story for Knowle Again

8th March 2025: Central Ajax 1-1 Knowle FC

Robins Rue Missed Chances

1st March 2025: Coventrians 0-0 Knowle FC