CONTACT: Christmas 1967

The Bank started the new season with two defeats, yet regained their confidence with a fine win over a first division side in the W Rogers Memorial Cup. Since then a fine run of six wins and a draw was halted with a narrow defeat in a later round of the same Cup.

The success is due to the side having played some enterprising and determined football. Another big factor is the influx of the newcomers to the Staff. The introduction of JOHN BOULTON at left-half has given strength to the defence and KENNY FOSTER is a speedy and determined right-winger who worries most opposing defences. ANDREW THOMPSON proved a fine goalkeeper in his short run in the side and when he is free to return to the fold he will be welcomed with open arms, as he is undoubtedly a top class player.

Derek Horner had proved the find of the season, playing at centre-forward he has scored 12 goals in nine matches. The full playing record to date is:

Played 10   Won 6  Drawn 1   Lost 3     Goals for  34   Goals Agst   20

Goalscorers to date are:

            Derek Horner           12

            Ian Galloway              6

            Bob Armstrong          5

            Paul Cartwright         4

            Ron Moll                     4

            Kenny Foster              2

           John Boulton               1

Probably the finest team display of the season was given in the match against Taverners FC from Senior Division 2. This was a very hard match, played against a bigger and physically stronger side. However, no tackle was shirked and, despite several hold-ups for treatment to players of both teams, the Bank manfully stuck to their task. When it became apparent to the team that there was nothing to be feared from the opposition other than honest effort, we settled down to play some delightful football. Three goals in the space of ten minutes, late in the first half, and another early in the second half completely changed the pattern of the game. Goals coming from Derek Horner (2) both with his head, Bob Armstrong (2) and Kenny Foster saw the Bank run out 5-2 winners.

Another example of the determination and persistence of the team was in the game against Derlyville FC, a close match in which the Bank scored first only for Derlyville to equalise soon after. The score stayed 1-1 for over half-an-hour with neither side able to go ahead. Eventually the efforts of the side paid off and the opposition collapsed as we shot in 5 goals in the last ten minutes. Having 'slogged' for over three-quarters of the match to gain the upper hand, it was very rewarding to see our efforts repaid with this goal-rush.

Finally, we would like to extend a welcome to all members of the Staff to come along and support the Team; details on Club circulars.

R N Moll

Hon. Secretary.

CONTACT: Spring 1968

As we near the end of the sixth season since the founding of the Football Club, it can be said that the Club has met with greater success than in any of the previous years. After losing the first two games of the season, we then went nine games without defeat and stood a very good chance of league honours, but unfortunately three vital matches were lost on the trot, all against teams similarly placed in the league.

Although injury and absence has not helped, the main fault has lain in the inability of the forwards to score goals. However, thanks to three wins out of the last four matches, we seem assured of third place in our division. Highlight of the latter half of the season was the win over Lapal, to complete the double over them. Lapal were just above us in the league, but thanks to our victory we have jumped over them into third spot.

A depleted Bank side, with Andy Thompson, Billy Walters and top-goalscorer Derek Horner all out through injury, our chances seemed slim. Added to this we were set to play into a very stiff wind, and after half an hour, we were 0-2 down. Lapal played a very hard, physical game, and several of their tackles were bringing the referee speedily into action. Just before the interval, Paul Cartwright was brought crashing down well inside the penalty box. After a nerve-racking wait while Paul was treated for his knock, the penalty was easily converted. This was the half-time score.

It took the Bank just five minutes into the second half to draw level. A perfectly placed corner from Roger Garner was sent flashing into the top corner of the net by Paul Cartwright. Inside another ten minutes we were in the lead when John Boulton, after collecting the ball in mid-field, surprised all of us when he unleashed a crashing shot from 30 yards. Ron Moll, who as centre-forward for the day had taken a lot of punishment from the Lapal defence, netted to put us further in front. Just after this, a Lapal forward was booked for dangerous play, having kicked the Bank keeper, Bob Mutchell in the face. This lad was very lucky to have stayed on the pitch. Another referee who saw the incident told us afterwards that if he had been refereeing, this chap would have 'walked'. Finally the Bank scored a fifth time after stand-in centre half Mike Bourke had headed against the post. A battered, but happy Bank side triumphed over a bigger and harder side, by playing football and not being provoked into a brawling match.

Thanks to the support from the Pontoon by members of the Staff we are well placed for kit and equipment. The boys would like to thank all those who have supported them in this way and through attending matches.

Playing record:

Played 18   Won 10   Lost 7   Drawn 1   For 54   Against 48

Goalscorers:

            Derek Horner            14

           Ian Galloway             12

           Ron Moll                     8

            Paul Cartwright         6

            Bob Armstrong          5

            Kenny Foster             5

            John Boulton               2

           Clive Mace                  1

           Billy Walters                1

R Moll,

Hon. Sec.