Distance Run: None
Total Distance Run for January: 42.55 miles
Other Exercise: Wii Fit Plus - 20 minutes
Icing the calf for a second night saw some improvement in the tenderness. It's still a pain, but better. Although I itched for a speedy, fitness boosting run, I settled for more core strength work on Wii Fit instead. Football tomorrow and Thu will test the calf enough, and I'd like to put my Janathon mileage through the 50 barrier on Saturday. My initial, mildly optimistic Janthon target was 75 - oh well! If I didn't play football I'd have got there, and I could still run a marathon next Tuesday to ensure I do...
On the Wii Fit, I can feel an improvement in my core strength. Another 50 jacknifes, and no ill-effects suffered. They are tricky to perform whilst maintaining good body position, but pain aside - they are as dull as I remember them being. The price to pay for defined abdominals (which are smothered below a few lbs of fat anyway) I guess. Perhaps a plank challenge will be more entertaining, as well as effective, but I'll continue to build towards 100 jacknifes for now. Another 6 press-ups and sidestands were "easy" too, so it'll be a crack at 10 next time. The settings on the game are for 6, 10 and 20, and if I can get to a "comfortable 20" I'll be very surprised.
Whilst sport participation is high on my priorities, watching sport isn't far behind. I've been following the African Cup of Nations - a biannual football tournament - as well as the World Indoor Bowls, Australian Open tennis and the various cricket matches taking place (plus snooker last week). It's a feast that's almost too much to handle...so add in Liverpool's SF 2nd leg against Man City tomorrow, and the upcoming FA Cup 4th round clash with Man Utd on Sat, and there aren't enough hours in the day to watch it all. Whilst I'm not too fussed who wins the bowls, I'm hoping for some positive results for Liverpool/Andy Murray/England, and more entertaining African goalkeeping in the ACN (such as this fantastic catch outside the area ) to model myself on!
Injuries: Left calf, twinges on right knee
Mood: Sport Sport Sport Sport Sport
Just a week of Janathon to go, and my last blog entries for the month on Real Unfit and Haringey Yacht Club will soon be (reluctantly) typed up to follow.
Tuesday, 24 January 2012
Monday, 23 January 2012
Day 23
Distance Run: None
Total Distance Run for January: 42.55 miles
Other Exercise: Exercise Bike - 45 minutes, 23.5k, gear 5 (of 8)
The conclusion of this entry will see just 8 days of the Janathon challenge remaining. I'm currently at the point where blogging is very much a chore, and fitting in exercise for the sake of it isn't much fun either. I appreciate the benefits of the latter though as it's a good routine to get into, but blogging? The chances of my coming back to read individual entries such as this are slim, and whilst running entries will be of future benefit it does take some of the fun away from just exercising. All that said - I'm still going, and I'll see it out.
I had to rule out Monday night football for the second time in three weeks, and again at fairly late notice. My left calf was strapped to an ice pack overnight, but when I woke up it was even sorer than before. If my life depended on it then I could've put in a football shift, but as I couldn't comfortably walk down stairs without a disturbing "Childcatcher from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" hobble to compensate for a non-functioning calf, it would've been really stupid to do any further damage. The positive is that my left calf (and the right one, which is tender but ok) will heal up stronger, and I'm better over-working them through running with better technique than damaging my shins and/or achilles and/or joints from overstriding. I'd prefer to play football, but marathon training comes at a price.
Having done Wii Fit yesterday, I opted to try the exercise bike. Back in Oct & Nov 2010, during my physiotherapy recovery stage, I acquired the exercise bike and vented my frustration out on it to good effect. I was convinced it was helping restore my lost right calf muscle, but the physio pointed out that it tends to work the upper leg muscles more (if not entirely). It turns out she has a valid point, as I was able to pedal pain-free despite my difficulty walking. I put in a 45 minute shift to the accompaniment of University Challenge and Morocco v Tunisia at the African Cup of Nations. By the end, having put in the standard sprint finish, I'd reached 23.5k, knackered both legs and soaked my shirt in sweat. Good to have a bit of variety though.
Injuries: Left calf a concern. Ice overnight again.
Mood: Blogged Out
I'd like to do a quick-pace run tomorrow evening, but this depends on the calf. With football on Wed and Thu to come, I may have to settle for just Wii Fit again. Either way, the end of Janathon is in sight!
Total Distance Run for January: 42.55 miles
Other Exercise: Exercise Bike - 45 minutes, 23.5k, gear 5 (of 8)
The conclusion of this entry will see just 8 days of the Janathon challenge remaining. I'm currently at the point where blogging is very much a chore, and fitting in exercise for the sake of it isn't much fun either. I appreciate the benefits of the latter though as it's a good routine to get into, but blogging? The chances of my coming back to read individual entries such as this are slim, and whilst running entries will be of future benefit it does take some of the fun away from just exercising. All that said - I'm still going, and I'll see it out.
I had to rule out Monday night football for the second time in three weeks, and again at fairly late notice. My left calf was strapped to an ice pack overnight, but when I woke up it was even sorer than before. If my life depended on it then I could've put in a football shift, but as I couldn't comfortably walk down stairs without a disturbing "Childcatcher from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" hobble to compensate for a non-functioning calf, it would've been really stupid to do any further damage. The positive is that my left calf (and the right one, which is tender but ok) will heal up stronger, and I'm better over-working them through running with better technique than damaging my shins and/or achilles and/or joints from overstriding. I'd prefer to play football, but marathon training comes at a price.
Having done Wii Fit yesterday, I opted to try the exercise bike. Back in Oct & Nov 2010, during my physiotherapy recovery stage, I acquired the exercise bike and vented my frustration out on it to good effect. I was convinced it was helping restore my lost right calf muscle, but the physio pointed out that it tends to work the upper leg muscles more (if not entirely). It turns out she has a valid point, as I was able to pedal pain-free despite my difficulty walking. I put in a 45 minute shift to the accompaniment of University Challenge and Morocco v Tunisia at the African Cup of Nations. By the end, having put in the standard sprint finish, I'd reached 23.5k, knackered both legs and soaked my shirt in sweat. Good to have a bit of variety though.
Injuries: Left calf a concern. Ice overnight again.
Mood: Blogged Out
I'd like to do a quick-pace run tomorrow evening, but this depends on the calf. With football on Wed and Thu to come, I may have to settle for just Wii Fit again. Either way, the end of Janathon is in sight!
Sunday, 22 January 2012
Day 22
Distance Run: None
Total Distance Run for January: 42.55 miles
Other Exercise: Wii Fit Plus - 20 minutes
I am getting this entry done at the unusually early time of 10pm on the day itself. Having entered Janathon I am determined to see it through, and this entry will leave me with just 9 days to go. Before looking ahead, I'll look behind. Today has been as lazy as I hoped; football and snooker on the tv, and no pressing urge to remove myself from my bed. Bliss. My calf muscles are both tender, but not enough to stop me flailing about on Wii Fit again. My weight seems to be creeping up - possibly because I permitted myself half an easter egg after my breakfast pizza. Otherwise, life's just fine atm. I've not been anywhere of note in 2012 yet, but I've exercised daily, am almost back to half-marathon fitness, have played in 7 football matches, had 1 bowling session and 5 decent runs. Work's gone ok, and with the Jan 31st deadline for tax return filing drawing closer it seems that everything is still "under control" from that perspective. What I'd like is to have some more social plans booked up for the coming weeks - to compliment my busy weekdays with some fun weekends. I also want to continue the "life clearout" so the next stage, "new life purchases", can commence - although I have added some new sports equipment in the form of new football trainers, goalkeeping gloves, cricket gloves and sunglasses to my kit. I intend to get through to March without taking any holidays from work, but a week off in March would be nice - or maybe post-marathon as a reward for my (hopefully successful) efforts. More thought required, but it's nice to have options.
Injuries: Calf muscles
Mood: Mildly refreshed
If I'm not in too much soreness tomorrow then I fancy some football action back at Edgware Road. The new season kicks off, and rumour has it the Argentinian wonderkid is no longer available - which is a crushing blow. Typically, we've got a rematch with the losing finalists from last week in our opening fixture. Could be interesting. I at least have Tuesday evening as a source of midweek rest, and I may well need it.
Total Distance Run for January: 42.55 miles
Other Exercise: Wii Fit Plus - 20 minutes
I am getting this entry done at the unusually early time of 10pm on the day itself. Having entered Janathon I am determined to see it through, and this entry will leave me with just 9 days to go. Before looking ahead, I'll look behind. Today has been as lazy as I hoped; football and snooker on the tv, and no pressing urge to remove myself from my bed. Bliss. My calf muscles are both tender, but not enough to stop me flailing about on Wii Fit again. My weight seems to be creeping up - possibly because I permitted myself half an easter egg after my breakfast pizza. Otherwise, life's just fine atm. I've not been anywhere of note in 2012 yet, but I've exercised daily, am almost back to half-marathon fitness, have played in 7 football matches, had 1 bowling session and 5 decent runs. Work's gone ok, and with the Jan 31st deadline for tax return filing drawing closer it seems that everything is still "under control" from that perspective. What I'd like is to have some more social plans booked up for the coming weeks - to compliment my busy weekdays with some fun weekends. I also want to continue the "life clearout" so the next stage, "new life purchases", can commence - although I have added some new sports equipment in the form of new football trainers, goalkeeping gloves, cricket gloves and sunglasses to my kit. I intend to get through to March without taking any holidays from work, but a week off in March would be nice - or maybe post-marathon as a reward for my (hopefully successful) efforts. More thought required, but it's nice to have options.
Injuries: Calf muscles
Mood: Mildly refreshed
If I'm not in too much soreness tomorrow then I fancy some football action back at Edgware Road. The new season kicks off, and rumour has it the Argentinian wonderkid is no longer available - which is a crushing blow. Typically, we've got a rematch with the losing finalists from last week in our opening fixture. Could be interesting. I at least have Tuesday evening as a source of midweek rest, and I may well need it.
Day 21
Distance Run: 12.33 miles
Total Distance Run for January: 42.55 miles
Other Exercise: None
With the London Marathon date drawing ever closer, I'd begun to have some doubts on whether my training and race-day goals were achievable. Saying I'll run x miles on alternate weekends before breaking 4 hours on the day is one thing - doing it is quite another. My determination has never been in doubt, but my body's limitations have. The latest step on the ambitious road was to get through a 12-12.5m run intact, with speed not important. This would be my longest run since October's half, and a test of how my fitness compares to then. I drafted a 12.33 mile route, with the only inclines being the occasional bridge/subway, and drove the short distance to the Hop Poles pub for a flat ground start. Armed with a bottle of Lucozade, spare radio battery, and £1 (should I wish to purchase an additional drink) - I set off for a typically anticlockwise loop of Enfield.
One thing I'd forgotten to do was make a mental note of the mile markers for the route. I had a rough idea, but I usually have a precise point or two to judge my pace along the way. Perhaps not knowing timings was for the best, as I really focussed on my running form instead. Short strides, reasonable turnover, do not overstride, land just ahead of midfoot. My right shin ached a touch early on, which didn't bode well, and my legs generally felt less than perfect - but I was going along fine. After running past Edmonton Green, I took a right on to Bounces Road - checking whether to see one my accountancy clients, Dave Sharma, was manning the carwash at the Jet garage he owns. Sure enough, Dave was there in his blue overalls putting in a Saturday shift. Although it cost a few seconds, I felt it was worthwhile demonstrating how he wasn't the only one working hard that afternoon, and that I was still after one of his missing bank statements from mid-September to reconcile his bookkeeping records. He'd have probably donated me a complimentary beverage, but with my Lucozade intact I sprang off to Meridian Way. The weather was very breezy, and I couldn't figure out which way the wind was blowing. The temperature was fine, but I noted the cloudier skies to the north (which I was running towards), along with the slowly setting sun. I sensed rain was likely, but I turned out to be wrong. Meridian Way, which becomes Mollison Avenue, has nothing other than industrial estates and a drive-through McDonalds on it. It's fine for a run, and there's some nice greenery to be seen as the road bends left back to the A10. I estimated I was halfway when my watch hit 55 minutes, and it was within the hour mark that I was feeling the strain. Psychologically I knew I'd covered 10.67 miles less than two weeks ago, and this helped as the glances towards the watch became more frequent, and the breathing became a little harder. I reverted to my mental trick of breaking down the distance into 5 minute spells - thinking too far ahead is a killer, but I knew I'd reach the A10 somewhere around 85-90 mins, and Carterhatch Lane at 100-105 mins, if I just kept going. That I did, although it was made tougher by the breeze blowing right into my face on the open stretch towards the A10 - slowing me to what probably looked like a slow-motion crawl forwards. Across the lights, then up and over the railway bridge, down past Burger King and McDonalds, and the A10 reached in 86 minutes. Down and then up the subway exit, and previous timings meant I knew 1h 50m was doable - which meant I must've been fairly quick thus far. Increasingly tired, but by this point knowing I was in no danger of giving up, I slowly caught up with and overtook a female jogger. I turned back, offered a smile and thumbs-up, and the large lady returned the gesture - which was nice. I hope the sight of me plodding off into the distance wasn't too demoralising for her.
Increasingly confident I could gently increase my pace as the finish line approached, I turned into Carterhatch Lane, across the small roundabout, and prepared to cross over on the zebra crossing. Now, when I'm driving, people/idiots who loiter near zebra crossings or belatedly turn 90 degrees at the last second to use them, really piss me off. So, despite being over 100 minutes into a painful run, I stuck out my Lucozade a few yards in advance and made it as obvious as possible of my intentions as I jogged to the crossing. A woman driving a silver car was heading a small queue of traffic, about 60 yards away. I'd probably have been fine to just cross over, but her speed exceeded 30 and I erred on caution - she's obliged to stop after all. Once it became apparent that Ms Muppet did not intend to stop, my hand gesture of "thanks for stopping in advance of you doing so" transformed itself into an impromptu round of sarcastic applause, along with a real effort to make eye contact. It's hard to say which occurred first, but she did brake quite aggressively to permit me my legal right of passage - hopefully the applause got the message across for good measure. The driver going the other way did what most nice, considerate drivers tend to do, flashing his lights and/or gesturing whilst slowing down in advance. He knew not to mess with a hirsute running machine! My internal ramblings on poor driving carried me through the remaining mile of the run, and with no other obstacles to navigate I finished up, hands on knees by my car door, clocking home on 1:48:50. Comfortably under 9 mile minutes, and without allowing for stoppages along the way - awesome. The idea of doing over two laps of that course, and at that speed, is laughable. The idea of doing several demanding training runs in a hope to accomplish just that, for no reason other than to test myself, seems ludicrous. The idea of devoting more of my life to this target as it looms ever larger is deflating. But, for now, the latest challenge is complete.
Happily, despite a lot of soreness and stiffness, I had no severe cramps or major concerns after the run. My reward for the afternoon exertions was to meet up with Helen H for pub dinner and drinks whilst watching the Bolton v Liverpool game. This didn't quite go to plan (which gave Helen plenty of cause for amusement), and my escaping to meet up with friends in Fulham Broadway didn't start much better after I was firstly ID'd (facial hair counts for nowt) and secondly given a mild piss-taking from the bouncer who had noted my Liverpool scarf (the second time in recent months I'd been sporting the attire in West London on a night where Liverpool had been humiliated). Happy to report the evening improved after that, and a trip to Nando's meant I found space for more food (probably 1,500 calories in 3 hours - worrying) and back in the pub for a coffee ("a bit left-field" was the barman's response to my Saturday night 10:20pm beverage choice - wonder how far he'd run that day) before returning home quite happy with how the day had gone (Liverpool FC aside).
Injuries: Muscle soreness - hopeful it will heal ok
Mood: Amiable
Tomorrow is a very lazy Sunday - I intend to do virtually nothing, and enjoy the rest. With plenty of football to watch and DVDs when the sport stops, I'm spoilt for choice.
Total Distance Run for January: 42.55 miles
Other Exercise: None
With the London Marathon date drawing ever closer, I'd begun to have some doubts on whether my training and race-day goals were achievable. Saying I'll run x miles on alternate weekends before breaking 4 hours on the day is one thing - doing it is quite another. My determination has never been in doubt, but my body's limitations have. The latest step on the ambitious road was to get through a 12-12.5m run intact, with speed not important. This would be my longest run since October's half, and a test of how my fitness compares to then. I drafted a 12.33 mile route, with the only inclines being the occasional bridge/subway, and drove the short distance to the Hop Poles pub for a flat ground start. Armed with a bottle of Lucozade, spare radio battery, and £1 (should I wish to purchase an additional drink) - I set off for a typically anticlockwise loop of Enfield.
One thing I'd forgotten to do was make a mental note of the mile markers for the route. I had a rough idea, but I usually have a precise point or two to judge my pace along the way. Perhaps not knowing timings was for the best, as I really focussed on my running form instead. Short strides, reasonable turnover, do not overstride, land just ahead of midfoot. My right shin ached a touch early on, which didn't bode well, and my legs generally felt less than perfect - but I was going along fine. After running past Edmonton Green, I took a right on to Bounces Road - checking whether to see one my accountancy clients, Dave Sharma, was manning the carwash at the Jet garage he owns. Sure enough, Dave was there in his blue overalls putting in a Saturday shift. Although it cost a few seconds, I felt it was worthwhile demonstrating how he wasn't the only one working hard that afternoon, and that I was still after one of his missing bank statements from mid-September to reconcile his bookkeeping records. He'd have probably donated me a complimentary beverage, but with my Lucozade intact I sprang off to Meridian Way. The weather was very breezy, and I couldn't figure out which way the wind was blowing. The temperature was fine, but I noted the cloudier skies to the north (which I was running towards), along with the slowly setting sun. I sensed rain was likely, but I turned out to be wrong. Meridian Way, which becomes Mollison Avenue, has nothing other than industrial estates and a drive-through McDonalds on it. It's fine for a run, and there's some nice greenery to be seen as the road bends left back to the A10. I estimated I was halfway when my watch hit 55 minutes, and it was within the hour mark that I was feeling the strain. Psychologically I knew I'd covered 10.67 miles less than two weeks ago, and this helped as the glances towards the watch became more frequent, and the breathing became a little harder. I reverted to my mental trick of breaking down the distance into 5 minute spells - thinking too far ahead is a killer, but I knew I'd reach the A10 somewhere around 85-90 mins, and Carterhatch Lane at 100-105 mins, if I just kept going. That I did, although it was made tougher by the breeze blowing right into my face on the open stretch towards the A10 - slowing me to what probably looked like a slow-motion crawl forwards. Across the lights, then up and over the railway bridge, down past Burger King and McDonalds, and the A10 reached in 86 minutes. Down and then up the subway exit, and previous timings meant I knew 1h 50m was doable - which meant I must've been fairly quick thus far. Increasingly tired, but by this point knowing I was in no danger of giving up, I slowly caught up with and overtook a female jogger. I turned back, offered a smile and thumbs-up, and the large lady returned the gesture - which was nice. I hope the sight of me plodding off into the distance wasn't too demoralising for her.
Increasingly confident I could gently increase my pace as the finish line approached, I turned into Carterhatch Lane, across the small roundabout, and prepared to cross over on the zebra crossing. Now, when I'm driving, people/idiots who loiter near zebra crossings or belatedly turn 90 degrees at the last second to use them, really piss me off. So, despite being over 100 minutes into a painful run, I stuck out my Lucozade a few yards in advance and made it as obvious as possible of my intentions as I jogged to the crossing. A woman driving a silver car was heading a small queue of traffic, about 60 yards away. I'd probably have been fine to just cross over, but her speed exceeded 30 and I erred on caution - she's obliged to stop after all. Once it became apparent that Ms Muppet did not intend to stop, my hand gesture of "thanks for stopping in advance of you doing so" transformed itself into an impromptu round of sarcastic applause, along with a real effort to make eye contact. It's hard to say which occurred first, but she did brake quite aggressively to permit me my legal right of passage - hopefully the applause got the message across for good measure. The driver going the other way did what most nice, considerate drivers tend to do, flashing his lights and/or gesturing whilst slowing down in advance. He knew not to mess with a hirsute running machine! My internal ramblings on poor driving carried me through the remaining mile of the run, and with no other obstacles to navigate I finished up, hands on knees by my car door, clocking home on 1:48:50. Comfortably under 9 mile minutes, and without allowing for stoppages along the way - awesome. The idea of doing over two laps of that course, and at that speed, is laughable. The idea of doing several demanding training runs in a hope to accomplish just that, for no reason other than to test myself, seems ludicrous. The idea of devoting more of my life to this target as it looms ever larger is deflating. But, for now, the latest challenge is complete.
Happily, despite a lot of soreness and stiffness, I had no severe cramps or major concerns after the run. My reward for the afternoon exertions was to meet up with Helen H for pub dinner and drinks whilst watching the Bolton v Liverpool game. This didn't quite go to plan (which gave Helen plenty of cause for amusement), and my escaping to meet up with friends in Fulham Broadway didn't start much better after I was firstly ID'd (facial hair counts for nowt) and secondly given a mild piss-taking from the bouncer who had noted my Liverpool scarf (the second time in recent months I'd been sporting the attire in West London on a night where Liverpool had been humiliated). Happy to report the evening improved after that, and a trip to Nando's meant I found space for more food (probably 1,500 calories in 3 hours - worrying) and back in the pub for a coffee ("a bit left-field" was the barman's response to my Saturday night 10:20pm beverage choice - wonder how far he'd run that day) before returning home quite happy with how the day had gone (Liverpool FC aside).
Injuries: Muscle soreness - hopeful it will heal ok
Mood: Amiable
Tomorrow is a very lazy Sunday - I intend to do virtually nothing, and enjoy the rest. With plenty of football to watch and DVDs when the sport stops, I'm spoilt for choice.
Day 20
Distance Run: None
Total Distance Run for January: 30.22 miles
Other Exercise: Wii Fit Plus - 20 minutes
Another day stuck on the 30 mile mark, and another day without a run. My footballing career, a night of tenpin bowling, and an inclination not to push my body beyond repair, meant I wasn't able to fit in a sensible run during the week. I could've gone for a run a tonight, but with football likely to be played again on Monday I settled on Saturday as the best time for my longest run since October's half marathon. Ergo, tonight was some more Wii Fit core strength work. Jacknifes done, press-up & sidestands done, and a few other games played to get up to the 20 minute target.
Injuries: None
Mood: Shattered
I would've preferred to be sociable this evening, but settled for the easier option of the TV. After a physically demanding week I want to be well-rested ahead of tomorrow's long run. Whilst I look forward to stretching my legs, I fear my volume of football (and Janathon exercise) will make 12+ miles a very demanding challenge.
Total Distance Run for January: 30.22 miles
Other Exercise: Wii Fit Plus - 20 minutes
Another day stuck on the 30 mile mark, and another day without a run. My footballing career, a night of tenpin bowling, and an inclination not to push my body beyond repair, meant I wasn't able to fit in a sensible run during the week. I could've gone for a run a tonight, but with football likely to be played again on Monday I settled on Saturday as the best time for my longest run since October's half marathon. Ergo, tonight was some more Wii Fit core strength work. Jacknifes done, press-up & sidestands done, and a few other games played to get up to the 20 minute target.
Injuries: None
Mood: Shattered
I would've preferred to be sociable this evening, but settled for the easier option of the TV. After a physically demanding week I want to be well-rested ahead of tomorrow's long run. Whilst I look forward to stretching my legs, I fear my volume of football (and Janathon exercise) will make 12+ miles a very demanding challenge.
Friday, 20 January 2012
Day 19
Distance Run: None
Total Distance Run for January: 30.22 miles
Other Exercise: Football (Five-a-side goalkeeping for Haringey Yacht Club - 50 minutes)
Another long day, and another day without a run. Before covering the (more) entertaining events, here's a picture of a tv program shown in 2011. Forming part of the pub quiz picture round - name that show! Neither myself or Simon had heard of it, but we got it right...
With the working day concluded, a welcome chance to put my goalkeeping disappointments behind me was the reward. The opposition turned up this week, and were an unknown quantity. Their average age seemed a touch higher than ours, and several of their players "looked" inferior - but then looks can be deceptive. I felt ok in the warm-up, and whilst that counts for little it was still good to start the game with a couple of stops under my belt.
For the first time in recent history, Haringey Yacht Club not only took early control but made the dominance count. Crisp passing and an energetic start saw plenty of possession, movement up front and chances created. Within a few minutes it was 2-0, and I'd not had a meaningful contribution to make. Both teams were playing man-marking all over the pitch - how it should be - but we were just doing it better. One drawback of man-marking, especially when the keeper has the ball, is that space is left behind when most players are tracked higher and higher up the pitch. We were caught out straight from a keeper roll-out, but I'd positioned myself well and stopped a scuffed effort on the edge of my area. I soon had a chance to repay the compliment, and claimed an assist for 3-0 - Stefan running from almost next to me down the centre-right of the pitch to strike home with his first touch. Clearly my "pass" was perfectly directed and weighted! 4-0 came soon after, with Stefan intercepting a roll-out, knocking past his marker and again finishing well. At this stage a comfortable mauling looked on the cards. Whilst most of the team began to count their chickens, we were pegged back to 4-2. Both goals were the result of "someone" switching off from their man-marking duties - the first was a ball from deep played through to an onrushing forward, who slipped the ball past me after I'd advanced as far as I could (a good finish, but I'd got my angles slightly wrong to leave the gap open). The second was similar but a different forward, who smashed the ball at my better-positioned self. Unfortunately for me, the ball rebounded straight back to him, and I'd got back almost upright as he hit a second smash through my legs. Very much game on, and whilst we scored a fifth before the interval I had a few more saves to make to preserve the lead.
The second half was a different ball-game - we were outplayed by opponents almost unrecognisable from their dismal start. They had energy, they man-marked well, and they created the chances. It wasn't one-way traffic, but most of our openings came on the break, and our frequent spells of possession became increasingly limited. I was happy with the defensive effort displayed, barking orders which were followed out, but I was given multiple opportunities to prove my usefulness as the game wore on. I made a couple of reaction stops, flinging out hands in desperation at balls struck towards my far post, and they thankfully worked. Most shots were at a comfortable height, but they still needed stopping. I did enough to draw welcome praise from others though, and more importantly preserve our three-goal cushion for as long as possible. With 6 minutes left, I was finally beaten again - having been drawn out to the right of my area the ball was crossed into the centre where someone got a fairly weak shot into the far corner. That made it 5-3, and that was how it stayed - with a few nails bitten before the final whistle. We lost the second half 0-1, and the opposition left the pitch rueing their poor start. As games go this was what we needed - a solid workout against decent players. Another win next week will see us go 5 points clear at the top after 5 of the 14 games.
Following the drive home and a quick snack, the pub quiz awaited. Despite initial fears that we were doomed to come last after glancing at the picture round (which comprises 20 of the 60 marks available), the honour of Team Deadly Fish was upheld as we squeaked up to second-from-last by a solitary point. Simon must take the bulk of the credit for achieving this, after getting over half of the TV show pictures right almost single-handedly (and with thought and logic to his answers - which I couldn't provide). Perhaps his only error was over-ruling me on "What is the minimum legal age in the UK that you can buy a pet?". I couldn't correctly recall which swimming stroke comes first in a medley (I was convinced it was something else), or the full name of the guy who won the BDO darts world championship (only the surname). Our total of 28 was comparable to many sides who suffered, scoring 27-31 - nice to see the usual pretenders fail miserably at pictures which aren't conducive to knowledge of the 60's-70's! So, that picture at the top - wtf is that? I noticed the beanie hat and pondered Bob Marley in rat form. It was Simon, with the light-bulb above his head, that suggested we guess what turned out to be the correct answer - "Rastamouse"! Apparently the most complained about kids tv show, it's still running on CBeebies (ya got ta be kiddin' me man!). Perhaps this is some well-known show which escaped my radar, but after checking an episode on iPlayer I can understand why it's drawn complaints - patois speaking mice?! Playing in a band called the "Easy Crew"?! So brilliant it's true - jam on!
Injuries: Nothing obvious
Mood: Amused
To round off the pub entertainment, a game of Mr Paparazzi on the ItBox was won by virtue of having played the game several hundred times. Essentially a game of hangman with pictures of "famous" people, my thanks go to Ai Sugiyama (twice), Lukas Haas, Ivan Karlovic and (old favourite) Chazz Palminteri for being recognisable from their foreheads and/or letter formations. This made up for another losing crack at Play Your Cards Right, with lower than an 8 being crushed by a 10. The jackpot will be near to £300 next week though...
Tomorrow I've no post-work plans. Some more Wii Fit will be in order, ahead of a long run on Saturday.
Oh, and those other quiz answers are 12 years old, backstroke, and Christian Kist!
Total Distance Run for January: 30.22 miles
Other Exercise: Football (Five-a-side goalkeeping for Haringey Yacht Club - 50 minutes)
Another long day, and another day without a run. Before covering the (more) entertaining events, here's a picture of a tv program shown in 2011. Forming part of the pub quiz picture round - name that show! Neither myself or Simon had heard of it, but we got it right...
With the working day concluded, a welcome chance to put my goalkeeping disappointments behind me was the reward. The opposition turned up this week, and were an unknown quantity. Their average age seemed a touch higher than ours, and several of their players "looked" inferior - but then looks can be deceptive. I felt ok in the warm-up, and whilst that counts for little it was still good to start the game with a couple of stops under my belt.
For the first time in recent history, Haringey Yacht Club not only took early control but made the dominance count. Crisp passing and an energetic start saw plenty of possession, movement up front and chances created. Within a few minutes it was 2-0, and I'd not had a meaningful contribution to make. Both teams were playing man-marking all over the pitch - how it should be - but we were just doing it better. One drawback of man-marking, especially when the keeper has the ball, is that space is left behind when most players are tracked higher and higher up the pitch. We were caught out straight from a keeper roll-out, but I'd positioned myself well and stopped a scuffed effort on the edge of my area. I soon had a chance to repay the compliment, and claimed an assist for 3-0 - Stefan running from almost next to me down the centre-right of the pitch to strike home with his first touch. Clearly my "pass" was perfectly directed and weighted! 4-0 came soon after, with Stefan intercepting a roll-out, knocking past his marker and again finishing well. At this stage a comfortable mauling looked on the cards. Whilst most of the team began to count their chickens, we were pegged back to 4-2. Both goals were the result of "someone" switching off from their man-marking duties - the first was a ball from deep played through to an onrushing forward, who slipped the ball past me after I'd advanced as far as I could (a good finish, but I'd got my angles slightly wrong to leave the gap open). The second was similar but a different forward, who smashed the ball at my better-positioned self. Unfortunately for me, the ball rebounded straight back to him, and I'd got back almost upright as he hit a second smash through my legs. Very much game on, and whilst we scored a fifth before the interval I had a few more saves to make to preserve the lead.
The second half was a different ball-game - we were outplayed by opponents almost unrecognisable from their dismal start. They had energy, they man-marked well, and they created the chances. It wasn't one-way traffic, but most of our openings came on the break, and our frequent spells of possession became increasingly limited. I was happy with the defensive effort displayed, barking orders which were followed out, but I was given multiple opportunities to prove my usefulness as the game wore on. I made a couple of reaction stops, flinging out hands in desperation at balls struck towards my far post, and they thankfully worked. Most shots were at a comfortable height, but they still needed stopping. I did enough to draw welcome praise from others though, and more importantly preserve our three-goal cushion for as long as possible. With 6 minutes left, I was finally beaten again - having been drawn out to the right of my area the ball was crossed into the centre where someone got a fairly weak shot into the far corner. That made it 5-3, and that was how it stayed - with a few nails bitten before the final whistle. We lost the second half 0-1, and the opposition left the pitch rueing their poor start. As games go this was what we needed - a solid workout against decent players. Another win next week will see us go 5 points clear at the top after 5 of the 14 games.
Following the drive home and a quick snack, the pub quiz awaited. Despite initial fears that we were doomed to come last after glancing at the picture round (which comprises 20 of the 60 marks available), the honour of Team Deadly Fish was upheld as we squeaked up to second-from-last by a solitary point. Simon must take the bulk of the credit for achieving this, after getting over half of the TV show pictures right almost single-handedly (and with thought and logic to his answers - which I couldn't provide). Perhaps his only error was over-ruling me on "What is the minimum legal age in the UK that you can buy a pet?". I couldn't correctly recall which swimming stroke comes first in a medley (I was convinced it was something else), or the full name of the guy who won the BDO darts world championship (only the surname). Our total of 28 was comparable to many sides who suffered, scoring 27-31 - nice to see the usual pretenders fail miserably at pictures which aren't conducive to knowledge of the 60's-70's! So, that picture at the top - wtf is that? I noticed the beanie hat and pondered Bob Marley in rat form. It was Simon, with the light-bulb above his head, that suggested we guess what turned out to be the correct answer - "Rastamouse"! Apparently the most complained about kids tv show, it's still running on CBeebies (ya got ta be kiddin' me man!). Perhaps this is some well-known show which escaped my radar, but after checking an episode on iPlayer I can understand why it's drawn complaints - patois speaking mice?! Playing in a band called the "Easy Crew"?! So brilliant it's true - jam on!
Injuries: Nothing obvious
Mood: Amused
To round off the pub entertainment, a game of Mr Paparazzi on the ItBox was won by virtue of having played the game several hundred times. Essentially a game of hangman with pictures of "famous" people, my thanks go to Ai Sugiyama (twice), Lukas Haas, Ivan Karlovic and (old favourite) Chazz Palminteri for being recognisable from their foreheads and/or letter formations. This made up for another losing crack at Play Your Cards Right, with lower than an 8 being crushed by a 10. The jackpot will be near to £300 next week though...
Tomorrow I've no post-work plans. Some more Wii Fit will be in order, ahead of a long run on Saturday.
Oh, and those other quiz answers are 12 years old, backstroke, and Christian Kist!
Wednesday, 18 January 2012
Day 18
Distance Run: None
Total Distance Run for January: 30.22 miles
Other Exercise: Football (Five-a-side for Real Unfit - 38 minutes)
To really experience and enjoy the highs of sport (and life), one must really experience and suffer the lows. Having recently finished Matthew Syed's excellent book "Bounce", I have a greater understanding of the psychology of sporting success and failure. That's about the only positive I can derive from tonight's horrow show.
The second match of the Real Unfit season, as we attempt to better our tally of W1 D2 L7 from our debut campaign, ended in a 1-10 defeat. I've gone on record as saying that a poor goalkeeper will be exposed at five-a-side - and I proved that tonight. Having not played well last week, I was keen to start the match well, keep the game tight, and build some pressure on the superior opposition. Instead, I conceded a somewhat freak own goal within the opening minute - one of our players grappling with an opponent whilst chasing the ball back towards our goal in the centre of the pitch, got to the ball first but firmly drove the ball low to my left & I couldn't react. A second goal followed from their first real shot - out to the left of my D the forward struck the ball sweetly high at my near post whilst I was falling away to cover the shot across goal. Obviously if I stay motionless the ball hits me, and I don't look so stupid. The third was a poor error, failing to get two hands to a long low strike barely left of centre, and another two goals came with me getting my left hand to the shot but failing miserably to keep it out. 1-6 at HT and utterly crushed.
As was the plan, I played in defence for the second half - leaving Paul (not a keeper, but willing to give it a try) between the sticks. My only positive was putting in a good shift defensively, although going forwards I was quite hapless and missed a 1 v 1 by dragging a side-footed shot wide of the near post. It'll take some time and practice to gel in the outfield with some new players, and we only had 6 tonight which left everyone knackered, but to stand any chance of a positive result I need to play much better. That feeling of wanting to kick everything in sight, of letting a team down, and just wanting to avenge a poor performance - I don't like it! I'm back in goal tomorrow night though, and can moan about that and more with Simon at the pub quiz afterwards.
Injuries: Just knackered
Mood: Grrrrrrr!
My brother mentioned a homemade coffee cake he concocted with his girlfriend the other day. I don't deserve it, but I'm going to take a slice before bed. :)
Total Distance Run for January: 30.22 miles
Other Exercise: Football (Five-a-side for Real Unfit - 38 minutes)
To really experience and enjoy the highs of sport (and life), one must really experience and suffer the lows. Having recently finished Matthew Syed's excellent book "Bounce", I have a greater understanding of the psychology of sporting success and failure. That's about the only positive I can derive from tonight's horrow show.
The second match of the Real Unfit season, as we attempt to better our tally of W1 D2 L7 from our debut campaign, ended in a 1-10 defeat. I've gone on record as saying that a poor goalkeeper will be exposed at five-a-side - and I proved that tonight. Having not played well last week, I was keen to start the match well, keep the game tight, and build some pressure on the superior opposition. Instead, I conceded a somewhat freak own goal within the opening minute - one of our players grappling with an opponent whilst chasing the ball back towards our goal in the centre of the pitch, got to the ball first but firmly drove the ball low to my left & I couldn't react. A second goal followed from their first real shot - out to the left of my D the forward struck the ball sweetly high at my near post whilst I was falling away to cover the shot across goal. Obviously if I stay motionless the ball hits me, and I don't look so stupid. The third was a poor error, failing to get two hands to a long low strike barely left of centre, and another two goals came with me getting my left hand to the shot but failing miserably to keep it out. 1-6 at HT and utterly crushed.
As was the plan, I played in defence for the second half - leaving Paul (not a keeper, but willing to give it a try) between the sticks. My only positive was putting in a good shift defensively, although going forwards I was quite hapless and missed a 1 v 1 by dragging a side-footed shot wide of the near post. It'll take some time and practice to gel in the outfield with some new players, and we only had 6 tonight which left everyone knackered, but to stand any chance of a positive result I need to play much better. That feeling of wanting to kick everything in sight, of letting a team down, and just wanting to avenge a poor performance - I don't like it! I'm back in goal tomorrow night though, and can moan about that and more with Simon at the pub quiz afterwards.
Injuries: Just knackered
Mood: Grrrrrrr!
My brother mentioned a homemade coffee cake he concocted with his girlfriend the other day. I don't deserve it, but I'm going to take a slice before bed. :)
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