Crown & Shuttle 0 - 3 Italia Sun 18th April Div 2

After a recent dip in league form having drawn their last three, Italia knew that a win today would finally put them out of reach of Crown & Shuttle and seal the division two title while Shuttle knew only a win was good enough to give them a realistic chance of finishing as champions. Both teams had a determined look about them as the game kicked off on a bumpy rock hard pitch that made it difficult to play good football and the first fifteen minutes saw both teams trying to take control of the midfield with little to threaten either keeper. Italia were slowly starting to get the upper hand with only the final pass or awkward bobble stopping them from creating a clear chance before Shuttle came close to taking the lead when a shot went just wide with Collins beaten. The pace of Scholes and Kumah was starting to trouble the Shuttle back four and in the 27th minute the breakthrough came, Kumah broke clear through the middle and smashed the ball home past Shuttle's keeper to give Italia the lead.
Within minutes it was almost two as Scholes chip bounced off the top of the bar before Shuttle won a free kick just outside the box, the impressive David Jenkins curled it towards the top corner and Collins pulled off an excellent save to tip it round the post and wide as an equaliser looked on the cards. Jenkins was undoubtedly the danger man for Shuttle but had been kept quiet by Ashton and Mitton as he swapped flanks looking for more of the ball as Italia's midfield had taken control, and in the 36th minute the pace of Kumah again unlocked the Shuttle defence. A powerful run down the left saw him beat two men and pull the ball back for his partner Scholes to slot into the bottom corner to double his side's lead. With the scent of victory in their nostrils Italia had stepped up the pace and within five minutes had a third. Cisco Casserley's shot from outside the box bobbled up in front of the keeper and he fumbled straight to the feet of Kumah who blasted it into the roof of the net, 3-0.
Shuttle came out for the second half fired up to try and get back in the game and had a fifteen minute spell where they saw plenty of the ball without creating any real chances, the best chance falling to Jenkins who dragged his shot wide. Italia were content to see the game out and could possibly have added a couple more goals late on as the Shuttle defence tired, Kumah and Scholes both coming close to adding to their tally. Excellent performances all round from Italia as they secured a league and cup double in their best season for years. 

Italia 3-3 Crown & Shuttle Sun 4th April Div 2

After their heroics in the Butterworth Cup Final two days previously, a number of Italia players were still feeling the effects of what had been a gruelling and physical encounter and were carrying injuries, but all the same still keen to play against a Crown & Shuttle side who could still possibly catch them at the top of the table if Italia were to stumble at the final hurdle. 
The game set off at a good pace with Italia having slightly the better of the play although Crown & Shuttle were quick and lively on the break with Jenkins looking dangerous. The deadlock was broken in the 18th minute when Jordan Scholes won the ball outside the penalty area and curled his shot over the head of Crown keeper Slazoslatek for his 30th goal of the season. The lead lasted for only four minutes though when Jenkins turned Liddle inside the box and smashed his shot into the far corner to equalise for Crown. Italia knew a win today would leave them needing just three more points from four games to clinch the title and upped their efforts, both Scholes and Kumah spurning good chances to put the hosts back in front before Crown shocked the home side just before half time, when the impressive Jenkins broke free in the box and beat Collins to put his side in front at the break.
Tiredness and injuries were beginning to take their toll with Scholes, Scarlett, Liddle and Thornsby all struggling before Wallis then limped off with a recurrence of an ankle injury in the second half. Ten minutes in and Italia were level, Kumah's pace left a defender for dead and he fired across Slazoslatek into the far corner. Italia were now dominating in midfield and starting to create chances but somehow a mixture of bad luck and bad finishing saw them fail to hit the target and it was Crown who regained the lead in the 72nd minute. Collins failed to claim a corner and the ball fell nicely for Chris Dunne to head home as Crown started to believe they could take all three points. It took just five minutes for Italia to level, Kumah's pace took him clear and as he raced into the box he was tripped by the last defender and ref Nick Gibbons pointed to the spot. Up stepped Jordan Scholes to duly convert goal number 31 and restore parity. The last ten minutes saw Italia create a host of chances but fail to capitalise and had to settle for the draw which in honesty could have been a loss if Jenkins had done better with Crown's best chance of the half when he shot wide with a goal looking likely. A good game between two teams who both tried to play good football and who both look destined for promotion come May.  

Gardeners Arms 0-7 Italia Friday 2nd April Butterworth Cup Final

The much anticipated showdown between Italia and Heywood side Gardeners Arms became a slight anti-climax for the neutral supporter as Italia dominated from start to finish to lift the trophy comfortably. Before kick off it could be argued Gardeners went into the game as slight favourites, having won nine on the trot scoring 49 goals in the process and only conceding 9, whilst Italia's form had dipped slightly as they had dropped their first league points and were knocked out of the league cup in recent weeks. Only Ben Elliott was unavailable for Italia as he served a suspension, the squad was otherwise at full strength.
From the kick off Gardeners showed how fired up they were putting in some hefty challenges to try to knock Italia off their fluent passing game, and in only the fifth minute striker Mike Wetherhilt was shown the red card after a two footed horror tackle on Paul Thornsby who was lucky to escape serious injury and after treatment was able to continue. The game had been billed as a showdown between the divisions two top marksmen, Jordan Scholes and Gardeners' Craig Winters but whilst Scholes went about his business in his usual efficient manner, Winters was restricted to a couple of long range attempts and allowed his frustration to get the better of him as he was booked for dissent and was lucky to stay on the pitch after stamping on Julian Kumah, luckily for him the incident wasn't seen by ref Mike Clarke. Three goals in five minutes gave Italia a commanding lead at half time, Thornsby who had been singled out for some rough treatment threaded the ball through to Scholes and he fired into the far corner to strike the first blow in the 21st minute. Two minutes later and that man Scholes was dragged down inside the area just as he was about to shoot and he made Gardeners pay as he stroked the penalty into the bottom corner. Gardeners were at sixes and sevens as Kumah and Scholes dragged their back four all over the place and on 25 minutes a corner from the left was only partially cleared as far as Gary Mason who smashed the ball home from eight yards out.
The second half kicked off with Gardeners once again fired up by their half time team talk and determined to try and get something from the game, and for the first ten minutes they saw plenty of the ball as they tried to drag themselves back into it, they were restricted to a couple of long range efforts though that didn't trouble Collins' goal and with their first real attack of the half Italia went further in front. Cisco Casserley found Scholes whose shot was parried by the Gardeners keeper straight to the feet of Kumah who gleefully rammed it into the roof of the net. Thornsby had been on the end of some heavy tackles in the first half and it was his midfield partner Ryan Scarlett who seemed to be singled out in the second half as he took a battering with tackles flying in thick and fast as Gardeners tried to stop his influence on the game, but only four minutes more had gone when the Gardeners keeper failed to deal with a long throw allowing the ball to bounce and then fumbling it, dropping it to the feet of Scholes and in that instance you know there is only one place the ball will end up and it was duly despatched into the back of the net to give the ginger ninja his hat-trick. Scholes still wasn't finished though and on 67 minutes a quick break found him one on one with a defender, he twisted and turned tying the defender in knots before curling a great shot over the keeper for his fourth. With his job well and truly done Scholes was brought off for a deserved rest receiving a standing ovation as he left the field. With fifteen minutes to go intelligent play from Collins saw his quick throw release Kumah whose fantastic pace took him clear and with the goal gaping he unselfishly squared the ball to Cisco who tapped home the seventh.
An outstanding team performance from Italia, every single player played his part and worked his socks off for the cause and although the early dismissal of Wetherhilt didn't do Gardeners any favours, on this kind of form it would have been a monumental task to beat this Italia side who were superb in every department. As well as lifting the trophy as Captain after the match, Jordan Scholes was also named as the R&DSFL Man of the Match by the league committee.

One further note, credit must go to Gardeners' Mike Wetherhilt who apologised fully for his actions in a moment of madness, hopefully once he has served his ban he will show the league his true quality. (Hopefully not against us though !!) 

Newtown 0-6 Italia Sun 28th March Butterworth Cup Semi Final

Italia went into this game as strong favourites to reach their first cup final in six years and promptly did so, although Newtown put up a great fight and pushed Italia hard especially in the earlier stages of the match. The Italia side had a couple of changes from the previous week, Danny Reynolds, Scott Brierley and Danny Adams were all unavailable with Ben Elliott and Paul Thornsby both out injured so Martin Wallis came in at right back and Dom Casserley returned to left back.
The first real chance of the half went to Newtown in only the fifth minute, they defended a corner well and broke quickly to find Kieran O'Connor through on goal, but as Collins came out to narrow the angle he rolled his shot wide when he should really have given his side the lead. As so often happens in football if you don't take your chances you are punished and within three minutes Italia had took the lead, Wallis laid an excellent ball into the path of Scholes and as Newtown keeper Hampton advanced Scholes lifted the ball over him and into the back of the net with only eight minutes on the clock.
Italia were looking menacing now and were starting to dominate midfield but Newtown were still battling and looking to break quickly and while Italia were creating chances and not taking them there was always the danger Newtown could nick one as they were prepared to shoot whenever they got any sight of goal. Mason and Liddle were snuffing out any real threat and it was a mistake at the back by Newtown that saw Italia double their advantage, Newtown failing to clear and the ball falling to Kieran Mitton who slotted home calmly.
Into the second half and Italia came out looking for a third, Dean Ashton firing just wide before a ball from Mitton found Scholes through the middle, he nicked it away from the keeper and as he was pushed wide pulled it back for Ashton to knock into the far corner. Fifteen minutes later Ashton bagged again, Dom Casserley won the ball at left back and advanced before spotting Ashton's run and giving him the perfect pass that was again lifted over the advancing Newtown keeper Hampton to all but seal the win. Newtown created a good opening but the shot was hit straight at Collins who stood strong and got himself in the way, then good play down the left between Cisco Casserley and Mitton released Scholes who cut into the box and just as everyone expected him to pull the ball back across he poked it home from a narrow angle for his 25th goal of another prolific season. Newtown kept going and were unlucky not to get a consolation goal when a shot from outside the box crashed back into play off the crossbar with Collins beaten. The final word though, went to Italia youngster Richard Tracz, the 16 year old sending a pinpoint Beckham-esque free kick from outside the box straight into the top corner, definite contender for goal of the season.
Italia now play Gardeners Arms in the final on Good Friday and if the previous league meeting between the two sides is anything to go by, it should be an end to end thriller and a great game to watch for the neutral supporter.

DC United 2-3 Italia Sun 21st March Butterworth Cup

Italia were looking for an improved performance after a recent sticky patch that had seen them drop their first league points and knocked out of the league cup in consecutive weeks. With Ryan Scarlett, Danny Adams and Dom Casserley only considered fit enough to go on the bench, Paul Thornsby still out with a back injury and Martin Wallis absent with a foot problem the squad was stretched to the limit, Scott Brierley dropped to left back and Danny Reynolds to right back with Liddle and Elliott in the centre of defence. The midfield was made up of Ashton, Mason, Mitton and Cisco Casserley with Scholes and Kumah partnered up front, Josh Collins took his usual place in goal.
DC United were fired up for the game and set off at a great pace, putting Italia under immediate pressure straight from the off and forcing uncharacteristic mistakes throughout the Italia side, and it wasn't too surprising when DC took the lead in only the fifth minute, Italia failing to clear a corner and Bleasdale firing home. DC could have had a second five minutes later, a mistake by Ashton letting striker Pigsy in but Collins tipped his shot over the bar and from the resulting corner another good effort was headed off the line by Reynolds. Italia then had a couple of good chances to bag an equaliser, DC's keeper Roberts pulling off a good save from Scholes before Scholes' overhead kick flashed just wide. Kumah then thought he had levelled but the whistle had already blown for offside before the ball hit the net. DC were still looking for goals though and came close on a couple of occasions, the nearest when a shot from just outside the box was headed off the line by Cisco, who within a minute had engineered himself a great chance at the other end but pulled his shot across the face of goal. Just before half time Scholes hit an excellent volley that looked destined for goal but was met by an equally impressive save from Roberts. At the half time whistle, DC were good value for the lead having given Italia no end of problems, Italia looking like they were still playing with a hangover from last weeks result, bickering between themselves, looking uncomfortable on the ball and making numerous mistakes.
A good talking to at half time saw Italia come out a different side and within three minutes the scores were level, Elliott found Scholes who showed quick feet and laid a perfect ball into the run of Mitton who slotted into the bottom corner. Four minutes later Scholes got on the scoresheet, a free kick straight down the middle from Elliott saw Scholes escape his marker and he lifted the ball over the onrushing keeper and rolled the ball into an empty goal.
Cisco then had a great chance at the back post but took too long and DC's impressive keeper Roberts pulled off another good stop with his legs. Shortly after, Roberts saved a Scholes effort with his foot before a flick from Scholes put Kumah through the middle where he was tripped and ref Nick Gibbons pointed to the spot, Scholes sending the keeper the wrong way with his kick. To their credit, DC never gave up and did pull one back three minutes from time when a mistake by Mason saw Hayes hammer a shot into the roof of the net. It looked like DC would really go all out for the equaliser in the last few minutes but they couldn't create any real chances and the last word went to Roberts who pulled off another great save from Scholes.
A much improved second half performance from Italia saw them through, joint man of the match award goes to Scott Brierley and Julian Kumah. 

Italia 8-3 Rochdale Nomads Sun 14th Feb Div 2

The day didn't start well for either side, Italia finding out the referee had cried off on the morning of the match and no other official was available and then arriving at the ground to find no-one had turned up to open up. Nomads were down to the bare bones with only 11 fit players available, Michael Thomas who hadn't played for some time due to injury started at centre half and veteran Ste Kershaw donned his boots again to start up front.
Italia were without Dave Liddle, Lee Robinson filling in at centre half and there were a couple more changes due to the clubs rotation policy, Danny Adams and Scott Brierley both coming back into the side after missing out the previous week.
The game kicked off on time and without an official referee available Italia secretary Andy Palombo reluctantly had to take the whistle and within five minutes had a big decision to give. Italia won a corner on the right, as Danny Adams floated the ball over there was a clear push on Jordan Scholes at the near post and the penalty was given. Scholes slotted the penalty home comfortably and the league leaders were in front. Italia's tails were up and two goals in two minutes gave them what looked an overwhelming advantage, Julian Kumah scored his first of the match in the 15th minute and a minute later Lee Robinson met a corner with a powerful volley into the bottom corner. Nomads, to their credit, didn't let their heads drop and Italia maybe became a little too complacent and at times sloppy in their play, and on 23 minutes Nomads' hard work was rewarded when Craig Dixon smashed a shot home to give Nomads a glimmer of hope. Ten minutes later Kumah bagged his second to restore the three goal advantage when he tapped home after a shot came back off the post, but Nomads would not just roll over and within three minutes pulled another back, Dixon bulging the net for his second goal of the game. A minute before half time Kumah - who the week previous couldn't score for toffee - completed his hat trick lifting the ball over keeper Hurst and again restoring the three goal advantage. H.T. 5-2
Within four minutes of the restart Nomads shocked the home side again, Ben Elliott's foul resulting in a penalty which was smashed home by Dixon for his hat trick. Julian Kumah was having a good day though and on 59 minutes he knocked home his fourth after a good move. Jordan Scholes had been tightly marked all morning but showed his class in the 78th minute when he knocked one into the top corner after a good move down the left and with two minutes remaining Ryan Scarlett completed the scoring to give Italia what was ultimately a comfortable win. Take nothing away from Nomads though, with an under strength side they can take great pride in their performance and certainly made it hard for the league leaders. F.T. 8-3
Joint man of the match award for Italia went to Dom Casserley and Julian Kumah, Casserley's passing, distribution and determination were top class and Kumah's four goals were the difference between the sides. 


Italia 7-1 DC United Sun 7th Feb Div 2

DC United got into their stride quickly in this encounter between two of the sides in the top three of the division, and an early chance came the way of McHale but his shot was straight at Collins who saved comfortably. Italia were slowly starting to get going and in the ninth minute Scarlett got on the end of a cross into the box but couldnt quite adjust his feet quickly enough and could only scuff his shot wide. Four minutes later and a great through ball from Elliott sent Kumah through, he looked odds on to score but pulled his shot wide, Italia were getting on top with Thornsby, Scarlett, Mitton and Reynolds starting to dominate the midfield. A long throw from Kumah bounced over the head of DC keeper Roberts and was cleared off the line before Kumah again went through on goal, this time Roberts saved and although the rebound came back to Kumah he couldn't force it over and the ball was again cleared off the line. On 25 minutes a great move down the left involving Thornsby, Dom Casserley and Scholes saw Casserley pull the ball back across goal and Mitton arrived bang on cue to lash the ball home off the post to give the hosts the lead.
DC were working hard still and came close when Adams shot just wide, and on 33 minutes they were level. A free kick was floated into the area and Keefe found himself free at the back post to knock the ball past Collins, 1-1. Within two minutes Italia were back in front, Mitton sent Scholes down the right and his shot from the edge of the penalty area beat Roberts. Gothem then fired an effort wide for DC before Italia went further in front. Reynolds floated in a corner that was met by the head of Thornsby and his downward header nestled in the back of the goal. Two minutes later Italia had a fourth, a great move ended with Mitton pulling the ball across for Reynolds to score from close range and just before half time Thornsby fed Kumah and he shot just over. H.T. 4-1
Italia started the second half as they finished the first and won a corner almost immediately, the ball was only half cleared to Dave Liddle on the edge of the box and his left foot shot smacked off the outside of the post. On 61 mins Adams replaced the industrious Danny Reynolds and six minutes later the impressive Mitton was replaced by Cisco Casserley, who was making his long awaited return after suffering a serious injury on the opening day of the season. And it didn't take him long to make his mark, Scholes went clear and took the ball round keeper Roberts but saw his shot blocked on the line by a covering defender, the rebound fell for Cisco and he scored with his first touch, a dream return to action for the nippy striker. Within three minutes he had doubled his tally, curling the ball home after being played in by Thornsby. After a superb performance Thornsby was then given a rest being replaced by youngster Tracz. Ashton who had looked solid at full back sent Cisco down the right and he laid a perfect ball into the path of Scholes who smashed the ball into the roof of the net. DC never stopped working but were restricted to a couple of long range efforts as Italia were still pressing and looking for more goals. Ashton went on a mazy run and put Scholes one on one with Roberts but the shot was too close to the keeper and he saved well and the final attempt saw Elliott volley wide from a corner. F.T. 7-1
An excellent team performance from Italia, every player playing well but man of the match award goes to Ryan Scarlett who was outstanding in midfield but run close for the award by Paul Thornsby and Kieran Mitton. 


Newtown 0-4 Italia Sun 24th Jan 2010 Div 2

After a six week lay off due to the atrocious weather Italia finally resumed their league programme. Josh Collins took his usual slot between the posts, Dean Ashton returned from injury at right fullback, Danny Adams lined up at left fullback with Dave Liddle and Ben Elliott at centre half. In midfield both Danny Reynolds and Paul Thornsby made their full debuts, with Ryan Scarlett and Kieran Mitton making up the midfield four, the prolific partnership of Jordan Scholes and Julian Kumah resumed up front.
The game got off to a lively start, Newtown almost scoring straight from the kick off when Collins mishandled at the feet of a Newtown forward, the ball was cleared though and that led to Reynolds being fouled out wide on the right. Elliott floated in the free kick and Kumah rose like a salmon to loop his header over the keeper and give Italia the lead with only a minute on the clock. Italia were looking rusty but slowly started to take control with Mitton involved in most of the action. In the 19th minute Scholes' movement saw him wriggle free of three defenders to create himself a great chance but he pulled his shot wide, and seconds later another good chance fell to Mitton but his shot also flashed wide. Newtown were battling hard and looked dangerous on the break but were restricted to a few long range efforts that didn't trouble Collins. Good chances were starting to come Italia's way, Thornsby headed over, Scarlett tried an overhead kick at the back post before Kumah went through only to be foiled by the legs of the Newtown keeper. On 40 minutes Scholes' pass sent Reynolds scampering into the box on the right, his shot was parried and as Kumah forced home the rebound he was judged to have fouled the keeper, no goal. Collins saved a long range effort comfortably before Scarlett went on a great run beating three men but seeing his shot go narrowly wide. H.T. 0-1
The second half started in the same vein as the first with Italia increasing their lead in the first minute, Mitton released Kumah down the left into the box, the keeper saved well but the rebound rolled out to the edge of the area where Reynolds was steaming in and he smashed the ball into the roof of the net for his first goal since a broken leg two years ago. Adams then made himself a good chance cutting inside two players on to his right foot but seeing his shot go agonisingly wide. Kumah's pace was terrorising the Newtown back four and when he got away down the right and pulled the ball across goal Scholes looked odds on to score but a defender somehow managed to get his body in the way and deflect the ball wide. Reynolds then headed over from Mitton's cross before Thornsby's free kick was tipped over. Adams was replaced by Brierley in the 60th minute after putting in an excellent shift down the left and soon after Kumah was again foiled by the keeper's legs. Dom Casserley replaced the impressive Reynolds in the 70th minute and was soon in the action feeding Scholes whose curling shot was palmed over the bar. Two minutes later came a definite contender for goal of the season as Scarlett volleyed an unstoppable shot home off the underside of the bar to give Italia a three goal advantage. To their credit Newtown kept going and almost got one back immediately when Collins tipped a free kick over the bar, but it was Italia who increased their lead further, Scholes was brought down in the box and he got up to stroke the penalty home. Wallis replaced Scarlett, who had given another all action display in midfield before Scholes saw an effort go narrowly over. Newtown broke away down the middle in the final minute but Collins pulled off a great save tipping the ball over to keep his clean sheet intact and deny Newtown a consolation goal. F.T. 0-4
Good performances all round from Italia particularly Mitton and Ashton but man of the match award goes to Paul Thornsby who gave an excellent performance in the centre of midfield.


Italia 2-2 Red Lion(Italia win 4-1 on penalties) Sun 13th Dec League Cup 2nd Round

With prolific strikeforce Jordan Scholes and Julian Kumah both unavailable Italia were dealt a further blow when strikers Paul Nelson and Steve Faulkner failed to turn up, and with Cisco Casserley still out with injury it left 16 year old Richard Tracz as the only recognised forward in the squad. This led to a change of tactics, winger Scott Brierley being asked to plough a lone furrow up front with a midfield five of Dom Casserley, Kieran Mitton, skipper Gary Mason, Ryan Scarlett and Martin Wallis. The back four were made up of Lee Robinson, Dave Liddle, Ben Elliott and Danny Adams, with Josh Collins in goal after his recent back injury. New signing Paul Thornsby joined Richard Tracz on the bench.
Lion had an early chance to take the lead in the fifth minute when McDowell steered a good opportunity wide, two minutes later Brierley's ball found Mitton and he raced away to slot home and draw first blood for Italia. The goal shook Lion and Italia had a good spell, a scramble in the box almost brought a second goal, Scarlett lifted a free kick just over and Brierley shot wide before shooting  into the arms of Lion keeper Lamb a couple of minutes later. Italia weren't having everything their own way in what was a physical and sometimes bruising encounter between two sides who just wouldn't give an inch, ref Simon King having his work cut out to keep control as tempers threatened to boil over on a couple of occasions. Lion drew level in the 39th minute, Lee Robinson cleared but the ball fell to Andrew Clegg fully 35 yards out and he hit a screamer that flew into the bottom corner giving Collins no chance. McDowell then had a great chance to put Lion in front but Robinson did just enough to force him into shooting wide when he probably should have done better. Two minutes before half time Italia regained the lead, Robinson won the ball midway inside the Lion half and put a great cross into the back post where the lurking Kieran Mitton finished calmly. H.T. 2-1
New signing Paul Thornsby was handed his debut at half time replacing Martin Wallis who was still feeling the effects of a thigh strain and his first appearance in the club colours certainly suggest he could be a quality signing. The first action of the half saw a good move involving Robinson and Mitton end with Lamb pulling off a good save from Brierley's powerful shot. Lion were then handed a great chance to level when they were awarded a penalty but the ball was blasted over from the spot as Italia breathed a sigh of relief. Youngster Richard Tracz was then introduced to the action replacing Dom Casserley as the season of injury woes continued, Casserley suffering a recurrence of his previous hamstring problem. Tracz joined Mitton up front as Italia reverted to four in midfield, Thornsby and Brierley on the flanks with Mason and Scarlett in the centre.
Mitton had a great chance to complete his hat-trick when he was played in by Brierley but Lamb kept Lion in it saving with his feet, and the save was to prove crucial as two minutes later Lion levelled again. Max Varty was left completely unmarked at the back post and he controlled and fired past Collins. With ten minutes remaining Italia were dealt a further blow when skipper Gary Mason was sent off, after an earlier caution for dissent Mason was shown red after a foul and the ten men found themselves up against it as Lion started to push for a winner. Neither side really looked like scoring in the final ten minutes although Lion were seeing more of the ball as Italia's ten men tired.
Extra time saw a supreme effort from Italia as bodies were thrown in the way of everything, Lion were enjoying the better of the possession as they made good use of the extra man but were mainly restricted to long range efforts, Collins pulling off at least three excellent saves to keep them out and Italia's Mitton was still looking dangerous on the break although the final ball just wasn't quite good enough to give him a clear chance on goal. F.T. 2-2
So to the lottery of penalties, Scarlett stepped up first for Italia giving Lamb no chance, Isherwood then levelled for Lion, Brierley scored comfortably for Italia then Collins saved Doherty's effort. Thornsby stepped up next for Italia, his penalty was saved by Lamb but ref King ordered it to be retaken as Lamb had strayed off his line and Thornsby made no mistake this time. O'Loughlin stepped forward for Lion but shot wide leaving Ben Elliott with the chance to seal the win, and he made no mistake smashing the ball past Lamb to send Italia into the next round and a tie with Division One pacesetters FC Dale.
Joint man of the match award for Italia went to Dave Liddle and Kieran Mitton, Liddle gave an outstanding defensive performance of tenacious tackling and got himself in the way of everything, Mitton was involved in all Italia's best moves, scored two and showed great intelligence as he turned in another excellent performance.


Asia 2-6 Italia Sun 22nd Nov Div 2

This seasons injury curse struck again for Italia, with star striker Jordan Scholes and keeper Josh Collins both ruled out with back injuries, and with reserve keeper Mark Kitchen unavailable it meant full back Danny Adams was given the unenviable task of guarding the goal against an Asia team that had come close to taking a point in the two sides previous league encounter. Dom Casserley and Dave Liddle both returned from injury to take places in the back four alongside Ben Elliott and Lee Robinson, Gary Mason returned to his preferred position in central midfield alongside Ryan Scarlett with Paul Nelson and Kieran Mitton out wide, Steve Faulkner made his first full start up front alongside Julian Kumah. Martin Wallis also returned from injury to join Scott Brierley and Richard Tracz on the bench. With the 3g pitch at Hopwood unavailable the game was switched to the grass pitch at the same venue, and although the pitch itself was in excellent condition after the non stop rain it was noticeable how narrow the pitch was, with the Italia management not sure it was the best pitch for the type of football they like to play.
The game started slowly with players battling hard to make space and gain supremacy in the middle of the park and ten minutes were on the clock before either keeper was called into action, Ste Faulkner shooting from wide on the right to bring a routine save from the Asia keeper. A minute later and Faulkner got free on the right again and laid a lovely ball into the path of Julian Kumah who arrived right on cue to sidefoot into the top corner and give Italia the lead. 
The goal gave Italia a lift and they started to dominate in midfield and carve out some good chances, Dom Casserley volleyed wide, Ryan Scarlett tested the keeper with a free kick before an excellent interchange of passes between Scarlett, Kumah and Mitton saw Kumah cross to the back post where Faulkner was inches from adding a second for the visitors. Dave Liddle then had a header palmed away by the keeper before Kumah laid the ball back for Kieran Mitton just outside the box and his curling shot smacked off the post.
It was all Italia now and there were 38 minutes gone before Asia's first attempt on goal, a free kick from outside the box was whipped over the wall but saved comfortably by stand-in keeper Adams before another shot from outside the box went well wide. Although Italia had dominated they had failed to take their chances and as is so often the case they were punished four minutes from the break, Asia broke quickly down the left and found Shefat Yousaf who cut inside and drove his shot across Adams into the far corner to level the scores. Asia then had a header just wide before a one-two between Casserley and Scarlett saw the former shoot wide when the goal beckoned. H.T. 1-1
Half time saw Scott Brierley replace Paul Nelson who hadn't been at his best and he slotted in as a straight replacement on the right wing. On 52 minutes Mitton's flick saw Faulkner run clear but he hesitated slightly just as he was about to pull the trigger giving Khan enough time to make a last ditch tackle and block the shot. Asia then had a great chance at the other end when their forward was clean through, Adams came out to narrow the angle, the ball was lifted over him but unfortunately for Asia went wide. The miss was to prove costly as with their next attack Italia went back in front, a long throw from Lee Robinson caused confusion in the box and Ben Elliott popped up to force the ball over the line.
Julian Kumah then shot over the bar as both teams were still giving their all to get the upper hand in midfield, and on 68 minutes an inch perfect ball from Gary Mason found Ste Faulkner through the middle, Khan couldn't make the tackle and Faulkner finished calmly to score his first goal in Italia colours. Two minutes later Faulkner bagged his second, Mitton moved the ball inside to Kumah who found Scarlett and his first time pass found Faulkner who fired into the roof of the net.
Martin Wallis then made a welcome return from injury replacing Dom Casserley who himself was making his first start for three weeks after pulling a hamstring. Asia hadn't given up and pulled one back when Fawaz Yaqub headed home as Italia had stopped, appealing for an offside decision that wasn't given.
With ten minutes left Wallis' ball between the centre halves found Kumah and he held off a strong challenge to finish well into the bottom corner, and in the final minute Scott Brierley's speculative effort slipped through the keeper's hands to round off the scoring. F.T. 2-6
Joint man of the match award for Italia went to Ryan Scarlett and Kieran Mitton, Scarlett covered every blade of grass in an outstanding midfield performance, Mitton was involved in almost everything showing some delightful skill and excellent passing ability. Also a special mention must go to Danny Adams who filled in admirably in goal and handled the ball well for a full back !


Italia 5-4 Gardeners Arms Sun 15th Nov 09 Div 2

Gardeners had been on a great run of form winning their last four on the trot and came to Firgrove looking to continue in the same vein against an unbeaten Italia side who were boosted by the return to fitness of Julian Kumah, Ryan Scarlett and Danny Adams, and the unexpected availability of Lee Robinson. With Dave Liddle, Dean Ashton, Cisco & Dom Casserley and Martin Wallis still out injured, Gary Mason dropped to centre half and Steve Faulkner, Paul Brown and Richard Tracz took places on the bench.
Gardeners were visibly fired up for the game and set off at a good pace pressuring the Italia midfield and looking to break quickly to utilise the pace of leading scorer Craig Winter. They had the best of the early exchanges and deservedly took the lead in the 7th minute, when Italia keeper Collins came to collect but failed to hold the ball which fell to Scott Hardy, he shot at goal and although Gary Mason had got back and tried to clear he could only deflect the ball into the net.
Four minutes later Gardeners almost had a second when Scott Brierley cleared a header off the line from a corner, then on 23 minutes slightly against the run of play Italia drew level. Ryan Scarlett played a great through ball for Julian Kumah to run onto, Kumah showed great pace to beat his man and pulled the ball across for Jordan Scholes to sidefoot into the roof of the net. The game began to swing from end to end, Gardeners fired a good effort over the bar before Scarlett headed against the back post for Italia, both teams were looking to get forward at every opportunity.
On 29 minutes Italia won a corner, Scholes swung the ball in over keeper Bamford, and although it was cleared at the back post Ref Mike Clarke was in a great position level with the goal line to rule the ball had crossed the line to give the home side the lead.
Within a minute Gardeners were level, Ben Elliott gave away a free kick on the edge of the area central to goal, Andrew Smith stepped up and blasted the ball through the wall and although Collins almost managed to stop it, the sheer ferocity took it past him for the equaliser.
The game was still end to end and 5 minutes later Italia were back in front, the ball was played into Julian Kumah whose first touch was poor, but as keeper Bamford came to collect Kumah's pace got him to the ball first, he was forced out wide but managed to pull the ball across for Scholes who still had work to do as he beat his man then calmly rolled the ball into the opposite corner totally wrongfooting keeper Bamford. Italia were enjoying a good spell, Danny Adams got his head to a Lee Robinson throw forcing Bamford into a good save before a curling effort from Kumah that looked a certain goal was superbly tipped over by Bamford. The half ended with Gardeners on the attack winning another free kick on the edge of the box, Robinson got his head in the way this time though to deflect the ball to safety. H.T. 3-2
The second half continued where the first had left off with both teams attacking at every opportunity and Italia should have gone further in front in the 48th minute when Paul Nelson found himself in space through on goal but he blazed over the bar when he should have done better. Gardeners had tightened their midfield and were keeping close tabs on Kieran Mitton who had been influential throughout for Italia and on 51 minutes they were back in it. A long ball forward was missed by Gary Mason and fell to Hardy who made no mistake to level the scores again.
The goal gave Gardeners a boost, another free kick cleared the bar before a defender headed just wide from a corner. They got their noses back in front in the 67th minute when a chip from Hardy caught Collins slightly off his line, to spark mass celebrations from their supporters on the touchline, with one young lady so happy she ran onto the pitch arms aloft screaming !
Gardeners are a strong physical side and at this point looked favourites to take the points, but there's a new determination and never say die quality about this Italia side and with 12 minutes left, it was all square again. Scarlett released Kumah down the right, he battled for the ball and made himself enough room to get the cross in, the ball was too high for Scholes' head but Scott Brierley was lurking at the back post to smash an unstoppable volley into the roof of the net.
Josh Collins then pulled off a good save at his near post to deny Gardeners before Bamford saved well at the other end from Lee Robinson's near post effort. Full back Robinson made amends from the resulting corner when he became the unlikely hero as he powered a bullet header past Bamford with only 4 minutes left on the clock.
Gardeners had a half chance in the last minute but shot wide before the final whistle went to end what had been a fantastic spectacle for the supporters and a great advertisement for Rochdale Sunday League football. Credit must go to the teams who both played their part in a thrilling game and also to ref Mike Clarke who allowed the game to flow and kept control throughout.
Man of the Match award for Italia went jointly to Julian Kumah and Jordan Scholes, Scholes bagging a hat trick and Kumah setting up three of his teams goals. The result takes Italia to the top of the table with games in hand on their nearest challengers, and with players slowly returning from injury the squad should hopefully be almost at full strength over the next few weeks.


The Star 0 - 5 Italia Sun 8th Nov 09 - League Cup

Injury depleted Italia went into this cup tie with a bare eleven fit players. Both Lee Robinson and Danny Adams were unavailable due to work commitments and out injured were Cisco & Dom Casserley, Julian Kumah, Dave Liddle and Martin Wallis. Ryan Scarlett had been struggling with an ankle injury and was on the bench with Steve Faulkner who was also handicapped with a shoulder injury.
Youngster Richard Tracz and Paul Brown both made their first starts of the season in unfamiliar positions due to the injury crisis, and Dean Ashton returned to the side after injury.



The game got off to a slow start, the first effort on goal a long range shot from the Star that curled safely into the arms of Italia keeper Collins. With only five minutes gone though, it was Italia who took the lead. Ben Elliott had ventured forward and ref Nick Blackburn pointed to the spot when he saw Elliott fouled in the box, Paul Nelson taking the kick and giving Italia an early lead. The lead could have been doubled in the 12th minute when a long ball found Dean Ashton but he was closed down quickly before he could get the shot in. Tony Knight then created himself a chance when he beat his marker but pulled his shot wide before Star keeper Stephen Tyrer pulled off an excellent save to deny Jordan Scholes. Knight then volleyed over the bar and Star forward Swindell shot wide at the other end. Ben Elliott then headed just wide from a long throw before the half time whistle came in what hadn't been the best of games to watch from the sidelines. H.T. 0 - 1
Italia knew they had to up their game in the second half to break down a stubborn Star defence, and almost scored immediately after the break when Scott Brierley's effort was just wide of the top corner. It was the Star who had the next chance, Gary Mason slipped on the wet turf and Star's Swindell raced away only to pull his shot wide when a little more composure could have seen him bag an equaliser.
Two minutes later and Italia had doubled their lead, Ben Elliott sent Scott Brierley down the left and he pulled the ball back across the box for Paul Nelson to sidefoot into the bottom corner for his second of the match.
Nelson could have had a third two minutes later but headed wide at the back post from another good cross from Brierley before Star keeper Tyrer pulled off an amazing save, clawing the ball away from the top corner after a back header from his own defender that looked a certain own goal.
Ryan Scarlett replaced Nelson for the last half hour easing his way into midfield after his recent ankle problem and he was soon in the thick of the action making his presence felt in midfield. Star then had a half chance, Paul Brown giving the ball away but the Star forward took too long and when his shot came it was poor and didn't trouble Collins in Italia's goal. Dean Ashton had a chance at the other end but turned the ball over the bar before Jordan Scholes' spurned a chance at the near post, Tyrer saving well again.
A Star free kick from 25 yards out went over the bar before Kieran Mitton received a throw from the left, flicked the ball over his head to beat his man and volleyed superbly into the roof of the net and with only seventeen minutes left it looked like Italia were certainties for the next round and a difficult tie at home to first division Red Lion.
Dean Ashton shot just wide after a good turn before he broke through to be thwarted again by the excellent Ste Tyrer, unfortunately for Star the rebound fell to Italia's leading scorer Scholes and he coolly slotted it into the bottom corner.
With ten minutes to go Steve Faulkner came off the bench to finally make his debut for Italia, although still not fully fit he showed some nice touches that suggest he will be pushing hard to stake a claim for a regular place once fully recovered from injury.
Eight minutes from time Gary Mason found Kieran Mitton and he in turn released Jordan Scholes who pulled back to give Dean Ashton a simple tap in to round off the scoring. To their credit Star kept going and had a great chance of a consolation goal when Swindell found himself one on one with Josh Collins. Collins stood big and strong though and saved well to keep his clean sheet intact. F.T. 0 - 5
Man of the match for Italia was Kieran Mitton, coming back to top form after an injury in pre-season and capped his performance with a superbly taken goal. 


Italia 4-2 Asia Sun 25th Oct 09 - Div 2

Italia knew they were in for a tough game against Asia and so it proved as they had to come from behind, two late goals sealing the win and keeping Italia's unbeaten league record intact. Conditions weren't the best for good football, a bobbly pitch coupled with strong winds and occasional showers making it hard for both teams to adapt. With regular keeper Josh Collins unavailable, back up keeper and club treasurer Mark Kitchen made his first appearance of the season in goal, with Tony Knight making his first start in midfield.



Italia got off to a quick start, winning a corner that was headed over by Ben Elliott and with their next attack took the lead after only three minutes. Jordan Scholes won the ball, beat his marker and crossed for Tony Knight at the back post to control before drilling the ball low into the corner. Scholes almost increased the lead within a minute firing just wide, and then produced another inviting cross that Paul Nelson failed to convert when a goal looked likely. Ben Elliott then swung a free kick into the box for Lee Robinson to attempt an audacious overhead kick that cleared the bar.



Italia were dominating but were dealt a blow when Dom Casserley limped off after only eight minutes with a tight hamstring to be replaced by Danny Adams, himself only just returning from injury.
On 19 minutes Asia bagged an equaliser against the run of play, a corner was floated in, the swirling wind took hold of the ball and it bounced off the bar at the near post, looped up to the back post and Kamran Younis was in the right place to head powerfully home to level the scores.



Italia had a couple of chances to go back in front, Elliott missing a header at the back post and Robinson missing a good chance from a corner. Just before half time Gary Mason tried his luck from 30 yards and was left holding his head as the ball bounced down off the bar, Scholes following in couldn't force home the rebound. H.T. 1-1



Italia made another enforced change at half time, Scott Brierley replacing Gary Mason who had been struggling with a chest injury. Paul Nelson forced a good save from Asia keeper Farooq before he too had to be replaced suffering the effects of illness, Julian Kumah taking his place up front.
On 56 minutes an uncharacteristic mistake from Elliott, his header back to Kitchen fell short and Kamran Younis once again took advantage to give Asia the lead. Robinson again headed over for Italia before Julian Kumah somehow managed to turn the ball over the bar from only six yards out when it looked easier to score. Italia were pressing hard but Asia looked dangerous on the break.



Danny Adams swung a corner in and centre half Dave Liddle was on hand to bundle the ball home for the equaliser in the 64th minute. A minute later and the ball crashed down off Asia's bar onto the line, there were appeals that the ball had crossed the line but ref Mike Clarke was close to the action and waved play on. Ryan Scarlett had a good chance to put Italia in front but volleyed wide from inside the penalty area as Italia pushed hard to get in front.



With ten minutes left it looked like Italia would get the breakthrough when ref Mike Clarke pointed to the penalty spot after a defender handled a cross from Tony Knight. With normal penalty taker Nelson substituted, Kieran Mitton stepped up but his kick was too close to Farooq who saved well. Within seconds Mitton had chance to make amends for his miss but fired over the bar when he found himself in space in the box.
It was starting to look like it could be one of those days when the ball just won't go in, but with five minutes left a long throw from Robinson was headed back by Kumah and Ryan Scarlett hooked the ball in from six yards to the relief of the Italia bench.



Farooq then pulled off another good save from a Scarlett free kick before the points were finally wrapped up in the 92nd minute. A throw from Robinson saw Knight play the ball into Scholes who flicked it through for Scott Brierley to run onto and shoot low past Farooq. There was still time for Farooq to pull off a fine save from Tony Knight and for Kieran Mitton to shoot just wide.



A great game between two teams who gave their all for 90 minutes.


Man of the match award for Italia went to Ryan Scarlett, worked his socks off in midfield and scored the all important third goal.








DC United 2-6 Italia Sun 18th Oct 09 - Div 2

Italia went into the game six points behind early season leaders DC United and although they had games in hand knew they needed to take something from the game to keep the pressure on their hosts.
They started well and a half chance fell to Paul Nelson but his shot lacked power and barely troubled the keeper. With 4 minutes gone Kieran Mitton battled for the ball on the right, laid it back to Ryan Scarlett and he crossed, Paul Nelson back headed and Dom Casserley arrived bang on cue at the back post to volley superbly back across the keeper into the far corner and give Italia the lead.
DC were almost gifted an equaliser 4 minutes later, Dave Liddle passed back and as Italia keeper Collins cleared, the ball crashed against a DC forward who had chased it down but bounced agonisingly wide for the home team.




It was a scrappy first half with both teams fighting hard to win the midfield battle with not many chances created at either end, McHale volleyed a good effort over the bar for DC and Italia had a couple of half chances at the other end without really testing the keeper.
Two minutes before half time DC thought they had scored but their striker was clearly offside and the lateness of the referee's whistle caused some frustration for the home team, and Italia went into the break with a slight advantage. H.T 0 - 1
At half time Italia made a change bringing on Julian Kumah for full back Adams, and as has happened so many times Kumah made an immediate impact in the 46th minute as he flicked the ball on for the prolific Jordan Scholes to fire low into the corner to give Italia some breathing space.
Scholes returned the favour two minutes later setting Kumah up and he forced an excellent save from the DC keeper. The danger wasn't cleared though and when the ball came out to Kieran Mitton, he squared for Ryan scarlett to smash an unstoppable 25 yard screamer into the top corner, a definite contender for goal of the season.
Italia were dominating now and playing some good football orchestrated by Gary Mason in midfield, Casserley came close when he volleyed into the keepers arms and Nelson almost squeezed the ball in after a scramble in the area.
On 62 minutes Paul Brown made his first appearance of the season after recovering from a fractured skull, replacing Dave Liddle who had battled hard alongside Ben Elliott at the back.
Three minutes later DC's McHale ran and shot from outside the penalty area but his shot came off the post, the ball was cleared and fell to Julian Kumah who showed great pace to run and fire into the bottom corner, unlucky for the hosts but a great finish from Kumah to make it 4 - 0.



Lee Robinson should have made it 5 three minutes later but headed wide when he probably should have scored. Tony Knight replaced Robinson just after and was soon in the thick of the action, DC's keeper made a good save from Paul Nelson before Knight went on a mazy run into the box and was clattered. Nelson took the penalty and scored comfortably to give the visitors what looked an unassailable lead with 15 minutes to go.



DC weren't giving up though and when a corner wasn't cleared properly Mark Longshaw shot from the edge of the box, his shot hitting the post and squeezing over the line despite the efforts of Collins to keep it out. With four minutes left John McHale pulled another goal back when he was allowed to run unchallenged and hit an excellent effort into the bottom corner.
Final word though went to Julian Kumah when he rose to head home a corner from 6 yards out to bag his second and Italia's sixth. F.T. 2 - 6



There were a number of contenders for man of the match for Italia, Ryan Scarlett was on the end of a number of late tackles and did well to stay calm, Elliott and Liddle coped superbly at the back while Mitton and Casserley worked the flanks well, but the award has to go to Gary Mason who showed great composure on the ball, sprayed some great passes around and kept Italia ticking over throughout the match.


Midland Phoenix 4-3 Italia  Sun 11th Oct 09 - Lancs Sunday Trophy

Italia went into this Lancs Trophy game in great form and unbeaten so far in all competitions, hoping to pull off a shock result against established premier division side Midland whose results had been somewhat inconsistent so far this season. Both teams had injury problems, Midland missing Riley and Harris and Italia without Cisco Casserley, Wallis and Adams with Julian Kumah still not fully recovered from a tight hamstring, and only able to take a place on the bench.




Italia started well and almost went in front after only two minutes when Ryan Scarlett was only inches away from connecting with a free kick into the box. Six minutes later Italia took the lead, Kieran Mitton was allowed to advance down the left and as space opened up in front of him he tried his luck from outside the box, the ball deflected off Dean Ashton's ankle and fell to Jordan Scholes, he fired in a shot that was well saved by Horrocks but the rebound fell back to Mitton who had continued his run and he knocked it into the net to put the visitors in front.

Within four minutes Midland had levelled, former Italia forward James Tolson wriggling free inside the box to smash a left foot shot low past Italia keeper Josh Collins. Collins vented his anger and was promptly booked for his show of frustration. Three minutes later Midland got their noses in front, Tolson was given too much room and time inside the box and he rifled his shot into the top corner. Italia had a chance to equalise within a couple of minutes after a corner fell to Ben Elliott but his shot went just over the bar. Midland defender Diggle then angered the Italia supporters as he crashed through Dave Liddle's legs but escaped without warning from the referee, although soon after he got himself booked for dissent. The game went end to end for the rest of the half without any real chances of note at either end. 

The first chance of the second half fell to Midland on 52 minutes when Richard Helm broke away down the left, forcing Collins to save well at his near post. Italia had deployed five across midfield with Scholes as a lone striker up to this point, and on 57 minutes brought on Julian Kumah to partner Scholes in an attempt to get an equaliser. Kumah had an immediate impact as Italia started to get further forward, and on 63 minutes Dean Ashton had a great chance when Kieran Mitton pulled the ball across goal, but his shot from inside the box went narrowly wide.

Midland could then have increased their lead but Collins again proved himself equal to the task as he pushed a rasping shot over the bar, before Horrocks saved a Mitton header on the line at the other end. Richard Helm then had a great chance for Midland but Collins again saved Italia when Helm looked likely to score. On 83 minutes though, Collins was beaten when Dom Casserley failed to clear and was robbed by Matt Jackson, who curled a fantastic effort into the top corner giving Collins no chance. Three minutes later as Italia tried to push forward, Helm broke clear through the middle with no defenders in sight and only Collins to beat, and he looked to have sealed the win as he placed his shot low into the corner.

Midland defender Diggle continued to irritate the Italia support as his persistent fouling went unpunished, and after being cautioned in the first half, he can consider himself extremely lucky to have escaped a red card when he crashed into the back of Ashton twice on the trot followed by another kick through the back of Paul Nelson's legs 

Italia were still fighting hard and gave themselves a glimmer of hope with three minutes left when a cross cum shot from Kumah was deflected past Horrocks although the ball looked to be going in anyway and Kumah was credited with the goal. In the 90th minute Kumah grabbed his second scoring at the back post and Midland were looking shaky as the referee signalled three minutes of injury time remaining. Italia pushed hard and can be proud of their efforts but couldn't find the breakthrough to take the game into extra time.

In fairness, the result was probably a fair one, while Italia had as much of the play as the premier division side, Midland did create the better chances and did just enough to go through to the next round, although Italia certainly gave them a fright and can take great pride in their performance on the day, against a side that reached the final only two seasons ago. 

Man of the match award for Italia went jointly to Ryan Scarlett and Dom Casserley who both ran themselves into the ground.

Italia 6-2 Newtown  Sun 4th Oct 09 - Div 2

Italia knew they were in for a tough game against league newcomers Newtown who had recorded their first win of the season the week before. With regulars Danny Adams, Martin Wallis, Julian Kumah & Cisco Casserley all sidelined through injury for Italia, Paul Nelson was given his second start of the season and it proved an inspired choice by the management team as Nelson had his best game for some time.
The first chance of the match fell to Italia after six minutes when Ryan Scarlett played Dean Ashton in and his shot went just over the bar and it wasn't long before Italia took the lead. With 12 minutes on the clock Jordan Scholes tussled with his marker lifting the ball over his head for Paul Nelson to volley into the bottom corner. Two minutes later Kieran Mitton sent Scholes scampering down the line and Newtown were forced to concede a corner, Scholes took the corner and centre half Dave Liddle arrived just on time to head powerfully down, the ball bouncing up and into the top corner of the net. Italia were dominating now but credit to Newtown who kept battling and never allowed their heads to drop. Italia were having the better of the play but Newtown looked dangerous on the break, although the towering Ben Elliott was having a magnificent game at the back for Italia and Newtown were restricted to a couple of long range efforts. They did manage to pull one back in the 40th minute though, Italia keeper Josh Collins tried to throw the ball out to Chris Tyson quickly to get an attack going, the ball never quite got to Tyson and Newtown's Cox nipped in to square the ball for Fransic to sidefoot in and give the visitors a lifeline just before half time.



Five minutes into the second half and Italia's two goal advantage was restored, Gary Mason won the ball in midfield and Jordan Scholes played it through for Paul Nelson to race away and notch his second of the match. Three minutes later Scholes wriggled away on the left of the box only for Newtown keeper Suares to save, but with his back to goal Scholes hooked the rebound over his shoulder and into the roof of the net.
On 58 minutes the hard working Chris Tyson was replaced by Lee Robinson who had missed the previous game due to work commitments, and he made an immediate impact swinging in a cross for Paul Nelson to head back across into the corner to complete his hat-trick. Within a minute Italia added a sixth when a long ball caught the Newtown defence out and with keeper Suares rooted to his line Dean Ashton stole in and volleyed home.



To their credit Newtown kept going and scored a consolation when Hennessy shot from the edge of the box, the flight of the ball deceiving Collins and squirming under his body. Italia made two further substitutions, Scott Brierley replacing the industrious Dom Casserley and Tony Knight replacing Ryan Scarlett who was feeling the effects of a slight knee injury.
Man of the match went to Ben Elliott who turned in an outstanding display at centre half for Italia.

ITALIA 5-1 FALCONERS  Sun 27th Sept 09 - Div 2

Italia got off to the perfect start in the first minute when a long throw from Scott Brierley was flicked on by Julian Kumah at the near post, Kieran Mitton crossed and Dean Ashton sidefooted into the roof of the net at the back post. After the previous meeting between the two sides Falconers must have feared the worst but all credit to them as they gave a battling performance and caused Italia numerous problems throughout the match.

Keeper Josh Collins kept Italia's lead intact in the fifth minute when he tipped a header over the bar before Jordan Scholes hit the post at the other end, the rebound falling to Julian Kumah but he couldn't adjust his feet in time and poked the ball wide.

On 15 minutes a corner from Scholes was headed home by Kumah to give Italia a two goal advantage, Falconers didn't give up though and almost reduced the deficit in the 22nd minute forcing Collins to save with his feet at the near post. A tight hamstring forced Julian Kumah off in the 28th minute and he was replaced by Dom Casserley as the Italia injury list grew further. Casserley almost had an immediate impact as he headed a cross just wide before Falconers had a good spell of pressure just before half time and forced Collins into another excellent save. H.T. 2-0

Twelve minutes into the second half and Falconers thought they had pulled one back only to be denied by the linesman's flag as the goal was ruled out for offside. Three minutes later and Italia all but sealed the points, Scott Brierley floated a cross to the back post and it was headed back across by Kieran Mitton for Jordan Scholes to tap home. Scholes doubled his tally six minutes later when he was played in by Gary Mason to fire into the top corner.

Italia's injury problems worsened when both Martin Wallis and Ryan Scarlett were forced off with ankle injuries, leaving Italia with five players facing time on the treatment table and struggling to be fit for the important games ahead.

In the 75th minute Falconers got the consolation goal they deserved when the otherwise faultless Josh Collins dropped a long throw and it was poked home by Jarvie. That stung Italia into action again, Ben Elliott had a header cleared off the line and a Gary Mason free kick came back off the bar before Jordan Scholes brought down a pass out of defence and knocked it through for Dean Ashton to run onto and bag his second of the match. F.T 5-1.

Man of the match award went jointly to Ryan Scarlett and Dean Ashton who worked unselfishly in the middle of the park with Ashton bagging two goals also.

ITALIA 5-1 FC EDEN  Sun 20th Sept 09 - Lancs Sunday Trophy

Italia faced their toughest test of the season so far when they came up against FC Eden of Blackpool in the 2nd round of the Lancs Trophy. Eden were unbeaten this season winning seven and drawing one of their eight games so far, and included ex pro and England Under 19 player Ciaran Donnelly in their side.

Italia made some enforced changes due to injury, illness and holidays. Paul Nelson, Scott Brierley, Kieran Mitton and Julian Kumah making their first starts of the season with youngster Richard Tracz and midfielder Tony Knight joining Chris Tyson and Dean Ashton on the bench; Ashton still feeling the effects of a stomach bug and not well enough to play.

Italia took the lead after 6 minutes, Julian Kumah released Jordan Scholes down the left and he cut into the box and crossed for Kieran Mitton to sidefoot home to give the hosts the lead.
The Eden back four were being given a torrid time by Scholes and Kumah who were running them ragged. Italia were having the better of the half with Eden struggling to create any real openings, and increased their lead in the 27th minute when Ben Elliott floated a cross into the box and Julian Kumah looped a header over the keeper.

Just after the half hour mark Italia bagged two more, a throw-in from Lee Robinson released Jordan Scholes down the right and he cut inside his marker into the box to fire home. This was followed by Eden's only real chance of the half, a great effort bounced back off the bar, it was cleared by Gary Mason to Jordan Scholes in the opposition half and he twisted and turned before lifting a delightful chip over the keeper to make it 4 - 0.

Four minutes before half time Scholes broke free through the middle to complete his hat-trick and leave Eden with a mountain to climb if they were to stay in the competition.
 
Eden changed their formation in the second half to try and gain some control over the midfield and started to give Italia some problems. A tactical substitution saw Tony Knight make his first appearance of the season replacing Scott Brierley who had worked tirelessly up and down the left wing.

On 59 minutes Eden pulled one back when the impressive Lee Conway broke free down the right and fired past Josh Collins into the far corner. They almost reduced the deficit further 3 minutes later when Italia failed to clear and the ball was poked narrowly wide.

Chris Tyson came on for Paul Nelson in the 70th minute, Nelson visibly tiring after putting in an excellent shift down the right and youngster Richard Tracz showed some nice touches making his debut in the 80th minute replacing Julian Kumah whose pace had tormented Eden throughout the match.

With two minutes left Italia almost notched a sixth goal, a partially cleared corner fell to Gary Mason and his shot rattled the bar. There were also good performances from Danny Adams and Ryan Scarlett but the man of the match award went jointly to Julian Kumah and Jordan Scholes who ran the Eden defence ragged between them.

ITALIA 8-0 BRIDGE INN  Sun 13th Sept 09 - Div 2 

After last week’s convincing victory over Falconers, Italia took to the field full of confidence but had things far from their own way during a keenly contested first half.
The Bridge Inn players worked extremely hard giving Italia no time at all on the ball to play their usual fluent passing game. Italia broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute when Gary Mason scored his second in two games curling a superb free kick into the top corner from 25 yards out. Bridge didn't let their heads go down though and continued to battle hard giving the Italia defence a couple of anxious moments and probably should have equalised when a chance from a corner went narrowly wide.
Italia knew they needed to up their game in the second half and promptly did so, the introduction of Julian Kumah after 55 minutes brought some added power and pace and he netted the second goal two minutes later after powering his way into the box and shooting into the far corner.
The Bridge Inn players looked deflated and were visibly starting to tire as Italia took control and added three more goals inside six minutes, Dom Casserley, Jordan Scholes and Ryan Scarlett with a 20 yard screamer.
Italia added three more in the last 12 minutes, Ryan Scarlett getting his second and Jordan Scholes adding two more to complete his hat-trick. The scoreline was probably slightly flattering for Italia but its clear the new signings brought in by Steve Ashton and Andy Palombo are gelling nicely with the quality players who were already at the club and it looks like a good season could be on the cards if they keep turning in performances like this one.
Man of the Match went to Ryan Scarlett who gave a sterling performance in the middle of the park capped off with two well taken goals.

FALCONERS 0-10 ITALIA  Sun 6th Sept 09 - Div 2 

Italia look the side to beat in the www.poorlypuppy.com Second Division this season after a raft of new signings over the summer.  Today the new look side made their bow in the league and in all honesty completely dominated a game against league debutants Falconers who must be hoping all the teams aren’t this good!
Italia spent the majority of the first-half camped in the Falconers half but despite numerous attempts, near misses and the intervention of the woodwork, didn't get the breakthrough until the 35th minute. A flick on by Jordan Scholes was steered home by Dean Ashton on his competitive debut for the club.
Gary Mason, on his return to Italia colours, added a second just before half time, starting the move and then making a great run into the box to volley home.
The floodgates opened in the second half with debut goals for Ben Elliott, Ryan Scarlett and four goals for new captain Jordan Scholes.  Scholes is certainly a class act in this division and in all honesty could easily play at a higher level.  Second division defenders you have been warned.
Cisco Casserley and Paul Nelson, with his first touch, added further goals in an impressive start for the new look Italia side. The only down side on the day was a nasty injury to striker Cisco Casserley which looks likely to keep him out of action for a number of weeks. Man of the Match went to Lee Robinson who turned in an excellent performance in the unfamiliar position of right fullback.
Well done to both teams for playing in such poor conditions, here's hoping the pitches have been cut by next week.