January News Archive |
|
|
DATE: 31 JANUARY 2005 THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – Chippenham Town opened a three point gap at the top of the table when defeating challengers Merthyr Tydfil at the weekend. James Constable scored both the Bluebirds goals in a 2-0 win. Cirencester Town moved into third spot by beating Hitchin Town 3-1. THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION ONE EAST – Fisher Athletic stretched their lead at the top of the Eastern section to seven points by crushing Berkhamsted Town 6-0. Second placed Uxbridge lost 1-0 at Wingate & Finchley, allowing East Thurrock United, who drew 2-2 with Boreham Wood, to close the gap to three points. THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION ONE WEST – Leaders Mangotsfield United convincingly defeated Swindon Supermarine 5-1, to stay ahead of Clevedon Town. The Seasiders won 2-0 at Brackley Town, while third placed Evesham United won 2-0 at home to Bromsgrove Rovers. The top three are covered by just three points. ASHFORD TOWN (MIDDLESEX) – The Tangerines went into Saturday’s match at Paulton Rovers with a few injury problems. Scott Harris has mumps; Steve Willmore, who has been out since the match against Thame United in November, will only start training this week; and Paul Johnson will be in plaster for a further 8 weeks. BANBURY UNITED – Matthew Gooderick came on as substitute in Tuesday's Daventry Charity Cup tie, for his first outing for two and a half years since he tragically broke his leg in a pre-season friendly in August 2002. He celebrated with United's fourth goal. It has been a long time, but he is now definitely on his way back. He was Banbury's top scorer in his last there seasons for the Club. BARKING & EAST HAM UNITED – The funeral of Chairman Peter Webster was held in the packed Parish Church of SS Paul and Peter , Chingford Green on Monday. A very moving occasion was followed by a reception at Chingford’s Ridgeway Hotel, provided by Peter’s family. A large contingent of players (past and present) joined supporters, and club management amongst the large congregation. The service was conducted by Canon Michael Cole , who referred at length to Peter’s love of and dedication to Barking Football Club and included several tributes to Peter’s work. Peter’s daughter Victoria made a moving contribution by reading extracts from messages of condolence received by the family. The service ended with Blake’s Jerusalem, followed by Nessun Dorma from Puccini’s opera Turandot. CHATHAM TOWN – I read Chatham Town Manager, Clive Walker, has left the club to re-join Dover Athletic. HALESOWEN TOWN – The Yeltz are holding a ‘Gentleman’s Evening’ on Friday 4 February at the Eaton Hotel, Birmingham. World Cup winner, Nobby Stiles, is the guest speaker. MANGOTSFIELD UNITED – Fairford’s Phil Ward has signed for Mangotsfield. Ward played for Yate Town during their promotion campaign, back to The Southern League. SUTTON COLDFIELD TOWN – Damien Markman has re-signed for the Royals after having his Appeal to give notice to Braintree Town FC to cancel his contract, upheld by The Football Association. Dean Perrow has though, I understand, left the Central Ground to join Willenhall Town. SWINDON SUPERMARINE - Swindon Supermarine players, and coaching staff, took time off from their regular Tuesday night training session to help out local students at Swindon College. Upon arrival at the College, though, it became clear it was not their football knowledge the students wanted to get their hands on. It was their bodies! Twenty female trainee sports masseurs were waiting to try out their newly honed skills in the form of a full body massage on ‘Marines unsuspecting squad. Will Tuesday night training ever be the same? There were no complaints about this particular training night, and every player was in attendance. Is this a record? TRANSFERS – Steven Blaney (East Thurrock United to Barking & East Ham United), Kevin Byrne (Stamford to Corby Town), Ben Camara (Taunton Town to Clevedon Town), Matthew Childs (Dunstable Town to Berkhamsted Town), Darran Hay (Hitchin Town to King’s Lynn), Robert Hughes (Farnborough Town to Berkhamsted Town [temporary]), Ian King (Rugby United to Banbury United), Ben L’Honore (Dunstable Town to Arlesey Town), Andrew Lodge (Spalding United to Arlesey Town [temporary]), Daniel Pitham (Solihull Borough to Rugby United), Ravi Sangha (Evesham United to Bromsgrove Rovers), Robert Scott (Aveley to Sittingbourne), Philip Turner (Leighton Town to Boreham Wood) DATE: 24 JANUARY 2005 THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – Bedford Town won their tenth successive home match on Saturday, and as a result, drew level with Chippenham Town at the top of the table. Leaders Chippenham were held to a goalless draw at Hednesford Town. The Eagles, meanwhile, were defeating Team Bath 4-1 with goals by Christopher Dillon, Dean McEiroy and Paul Fewings (2). The Students replied through Tomas Jaukovic. Merthyr Tydfil, clear leaders two weeks ago, lost at Grantham Town. Although Richard French scored twice for the Martyrs, Willis Francis, Jason White and Jason Turner netted for the Gingerbreads. Although Merthyr are now three points behind Chippenham, they have two games in hand. Ducks Not On Tigers’ Menu Aylesbury United stayed on the leader board with a 3-0 win at Gloucester City. A Paul Edgeworth brace and a goal by Leon Gutzmore ensured the Ducks were not easy fodder for the Tigers. Histon remain in an excellent position, despite dropping two home points to Cirencester Town. In a see-saw match Ian Cambridge opened the scoring for the Stutes, but Jody Bevan levelled for the visitors. Adrian Cambridge restored Histon’s lead, but Benjamin Fitch netted Ciren’s second equaliser. Histon remain in fifth position, level on points with Cirencester, but the Stutes have played three games less than the League leaders. Elsewhere in the Division, Steven Pope increased his lead at the top of Halesowen Town’s goal scoring list when he netted his tenth League goal of the season, the clincher for the Yeltz at Chesham United. Not bad for a Centre-Half! Lewis Baker had already opened Halesowen’s account. Robert Taylor’s match winning goal for Solihull Borough at Bath City has lifted the Midlands club three points clear of the relegation zone. A Robert Duffy goal for Stamford, after only three minutes in the match against Rugby United, lifted the Daniels to the top, in the battle of the bottom four. But Dunstable Town’s 3-0 home defeat at the hands of Tiverton Town leaves the Blues one point adrift at the bottom, while the Devon club moved into a more comfortable mid-table position. THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION ONE EAST – Leaders Fisher Athletic London crashed at Arlesey Town, 3-0, enabling Uxbridge to close the gap to four points. Ozie Foster (2) and Justin Griffith scored in the first-half to give the ‘Two Blues’ a lead that Fisher could not breech. Lake Superior Uxbridge, meanwhile, swept away the challenge from the vastly improved Wivenhoe Town, with three goals from Stuart Lake. Michael Brothers managed a consolation for the visitors in the last minute. Barking & East Ham sustained the pressure on the leading two by beating Berkhamsted Town 3-1, at home. Wayne Vaughan opened the scoring for the Essex side by converting a penalty. Warren Haughton made it two before Benjamin Porter pulled one back for the visitors. But Antony Read restored Barking’s two goal advantage in the penultimate minute of the match. Maldon Town moved into the Play-Off positions with a 1-0 win at Leighton Town. Nicholas Smith was Maldon’s match winner. Although they remain six points adrift at the bottom of the table, Tilbury continue to pick up the odd point or two. This week the Dockers contained Chatham Town to a goalless draw. Erith & Belvedere, immediately above Tilbury in the table, crashed to a 5-1 defeat at home to East Thurrock United, despite holding the fourth placed club 1-1 at half-time. Kelechi Opara equalised Daniel Hayzelden’s opener for East Thurrock. But Daniel Harris, Vincent John and Hayzelden all scored in the second period. Dartford failed to take advantage of Erith’s misery, by losing 2-0 at Aveley. Simon Thomas and Steven Jones scored for Aveley to leave the Darts just two points above the relegation trapdoor. THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION ONE WEST – The top two, Mangotsfield United and Clevedon Town, clashed at the Hand Stadium on Saturday, and the game lived up to its high profile billing. Clevedon drew first blood, but not until the 75th minute, when Steve Lester scored. But just when it looked as though the Seasiders might leap frog their western neighbours in the table, Mangotsfield’s David Seal equalised in the 89th minute. So with both teams only gleaning a point, third placed Evesham United took advantage to close the gap on the leaders. Richard Ball scored twice for the Robins and Simeon Williams added a third, in a 3-1 win over Burnham. Michael Bartley replied for Burnham. Yate Town push towards the automatic promotion places continued with a 2-0 win over Marlow. David Elsey and Darren Edwards scored for the Bristol based club. In another ‘top of the table’ clash, Rothwell Town defeated promotion rivals Bromsgrove Rovers 1-0, thanks to a Martin Flannigan goal. At the foot of the table Egham Town’s position looks more perilous each week. The Sarnies latest defeat, their 17th in 21 outings, leaves them seventeen points adrift, behind Bracknell Town. And being involved in several postponements only adds to Egham’s problems. The Sarnies have played six games fewer than their nearest rivals, so a little fixture congestion looks possible. Berking Mad! SOUTHERN FOOTBALL LEAGUE CUP THIRD ROUND – Possibly one of the most astonishing results in the Competition’s history occurred on Monday night. Sutton Coldfield Town, losing 2-0 with three minutes of normal time remaining, drew level with Rugby United and went on to win 8-2 after extra-time. As the Royals ran riot in overtime, David Berks scored four. On the same evening, Fisher Athletic defeated Ashford Town (Middx) 2-1 and Halesowen Town won 3-2 at Hednesford Town. Twenty-four hours later Bracknell Town proved to be the surprise package by defeating Aylesbury United 3-0. Paulton Rovers won 1-0 at Gloucester City and King’s Lynn reversed a heavy League defeat at Grantham Town the previous Saturday by beating the Gingerbreads 4-0. BOREHAM WOOD – Amongst several signings The Wood have made this week from Cheshunt, midfielder Michael Black has moved to Meadow Park. Black, now 28 years old, began his career with Arsenal. Whilst with the Gunners the Chigwell born player made 13 appearances for Millwall, on loan, before being transferred to Tranmere Rovers for who he made 22 appearances. Ten former Cheshunt players joined Boreham Wood this week, following the appointment of Cheshunt’s Manager, Andy Leese, to the Meadow Park ‘hot-seat’. CHESHAM UNITED – Andrew Reilly has joined Chesham United. The Luton born, Scotland Youth & u/21 International defender, made five Football League appearances last season for Wycombe Wanderers. The Generals have also signed Taplow born, Eire u/21 International (Captain), Sean Byrne. During a five year professional spell with West Ham United, Byrne made 5 appearances for the Hammers, 2 on loan for Bristol Rovers and 9 for Swansea City, on loan. GRANTHAM TOWN – The Gingerbreads have signed Laurie Wilson from Burton Albion on a month’s temporary transfer. The Brighton born midfielder spent last season as a professional with Sheffield Wednesday. Wilson is 20 years old and is a Northern Ireland Youth International. HALESOWEN TOWN – Former Halesowen player, Paul Hickman, died last week aged 46 years. Paul made 180 appearances for the Yeltz, including a substitute appearance in the 1982 FA Vase Final at Wembley Stadium against VS Rugby. For the last three years, though, he has fought a battle against Motor Neurone disease. During his playing career Paul also played for Brierley Hill and Lye Town. KING’S LYNN – 37 years old defender, Simon Clark, has returned to the Linnets fourteen years after he first played for the Walks Stadium club. After the 6’1” Boston born player began his career with his hometown club, he went on to play for Holbeach Town, King’s Lynn, Hendon and Stevenage Borough. He embarked on a professional career with Peterborough United in 1993 and made 107 appearances for the Posh. He subsequently turned out on 98 occasions for Leyton Orient and 55 for Colchester United. More recently he has been playing in Singapore. OXFORD CITY – Next weekend’s vist
to Burnham will be Oxford City’s 800th fixture since the club
commenced playing after its eviction from its previous home at the
White House Ground. After relinquishing its position in the Isthmian
League, City recommenced in the South Midlands League with a fixture
against Walden Rangers. Three seasons later the club re-entered
the Isthmian League. DATE: 17 JANUARY 2005 Southern League Clubs in the The FA Trophy
Fourth Round Gravesend & Northfleet v Histon Aylesbury United v Canvey Island Stamford v Walton & Hersham Burton Albion v Hednesford Town THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – Chippenham Town took advantage of Merthyr Tydfil’s inactivity on Saturday to return to the top of the table with a 4-1 win over visiting Dunstable Town. Lee Davidson and Sam Allison scored for the Bluebirds before Thomas Hayes pulled one back for Dunstable just before the interval. Benjamin Kirk restored Chipps’ lead in the 50th minute and David Gilroy completed the scoring two minutes later. The Martyrs match at home to Cirencester Town fell victim to the wet weather, and as a result Merthyr have slipped into second place. But thanks to a club record ninth successive home win, Bedford Town are now level on points with the Welsh club. The Eagles latest victory was a 4-2 success over Banbury United. Derwayne Stupple, with a brace, and Christopher Dillon gave Bedford a healthy lead before Christopher Jackson and Jody McKay considerably reduced the arrears. But with seven minutes remaining Paul Fewings clinched the win for Bedford. At the foot of the table Solihull Borough’s 2-0 win over Hitchin Town lifted them four places up the table. First half goals by Mark Shepherd and Dean Peer have lifted Borough out of the relegation zone, at the expense of Team Bath, who were engaged in the FA Trophy. Stamford were similarly engaged, and dropped into 22nd place, while Hemel Hempstead Town picked up a point from a 2-2 draw at home to Gloucester City. Grant Carney and George Fowler scored for the Tudors, while Jimmy Cox replied for the Tigers. THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION ONE EAST –
Fisher Athletic London and Uxbridge both scored four in victories
over Erith & Belvedere and Barton Rovers, respectively, to retain
a comfortable lead at the top of the table. Bottom club Tilbury picked up a point in a 1-1 draw at home to Boreham Wood. Chima Eberendu put the Dockers ahead in the first half, only for Noel Imber to level from the spot in the second period. Great Wakering Rovers lifted themselves out of the relegation zone, at the expense of Erith & Belvedere, with a 1-0 win at Wingate & Finchley. Nana Siaw-Badu was the match winner. THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION ONE WEST – A 2-0 win over promotion rivals Evesham United has stretched Mangotsfield United’s lead at the top of the Western section to four points. Mark Summers opened Mangotsfield’s account in the 15th minute and a David Seal effort two minutes from time sealed victory. Clevedon Town have charged up the table of late and a convincing 4-0 win at Burnham on Saturday has put the Seasiders into the automatic promotion places for the first time this season. Robert Scott and Jack Pitcher scored in the first half; Thomas Jacobs and Geraint Bater netted in the second half. A 2-0 win at Marlow has lifted Bromsgrove Rovers into the Play-Off places, at the expense of Brackley Town who were without a fixture. Riad Erraji and Paul Szewczyk were the scorers in Bromsgrove’s fifth win on the road this season. At the foot of the table Egham Town’s 16th defeat in 20 League outings underlined the severity of the Sarnies’ position. A Stewart Marshall goal for Corby Town in the 63rd minute leaves Egham fourteen points adrift at the bottom and seventeen points from safety. Sutton Coldfield Town are now in the relegation zone, following a deduction of points after playing an ineligible player. Bracknell Town’s 1-1 draw at home to Cinderford Town has lifted them three points above the relegation trapdoor. Barrow Carries Pitmen to Trophy Success F A TROPHY – Holders Hednesford Town are through to the Fourth Round of the FA Trophy having defeated Worcester City 1-0. Lee Barrow scored for the Pitmen. Aylesbury United defeated Forest Green Rovers 2-1, with goals by Dean Cracknell and Leon Gutzmore. Forest’s reply was an own goal by the Ducks’ Dean Powles. Stamford reached the Fourth Round for the first time in the club’s history by soundly beating Willenhall Town 3-1. Robert Duffy (2) and James Rowe were the Daniels’ scorers. Hayes held First Division side Yate Town to a 1-1 draw. Yate’s Adam Sims equalised a goal by Knight for the visitors. Histon came from behind to defeat Team Bath 2-1. Tomas Jaukovic opened the scoring for the Students but Ian Cambridge and Robert Nightingale netted for the Stutes. Sutton Coldfield Town lost narrowly at Morecambe, 2-1, but Bath City were sunk 3-0 by Canvey Island. ASHFORD TOWN (MIDDX) – The Tangerines have signed Jacob Mingle from Staines Town for a third month’s temporary transfer. It is likely he will join Ashford permanently at the conclusion of the loan. Staines have also been the source for Ashford’s latest recruit. John Henry-Hayden signed in time for Saturday’s match against Thame United, and was likely to go straight into the squad as a replacement for suspended Vincent O’Sullivan. After signing for the Club last Thursday, and being due to start in place of Paul Johnson last Saturday, Darren Flaherty informed Mark Butler on Friday that ‘out of the blue’ his parents had bought him a ticket to return to the New Zealand club where he had been playing in the summer. He would not, therefore, be joining Ashford for the time being. The Tangerines will, though, retain his registration as it is hoped he will become available in two months time. Hawkins Returns to Twerton Park Bath City have signed former Bristol City midfielder, Darren Hawkins. Bristol born Hawkins, now 20 years old, was on temporary transfer at Twerton Park earlier in the season, but the player has since been with Tamworth. After starting at Ashton Gate on a scholarship, Hawkins spent one year as a professional but failed to break into the first team. BEACONSFIELD SYCOB – The Rams match against Dartford on Saturday was overshadowed by the tragic death of Gary Hughes, son of Beaconsfield’s Vice-Chairman, Paul Hughes. Gary passed away, aged 23 years old, on Thursday evening 13 January. Both teams observed a minute's silence before the match, and all SYCOB officials would like to extend their thanks to all the players, supporters, and officials who gave generously to help the family through a difficult time. In Gary’s memory, Beaconsfield went on to win the match 2-1. Everyone connected with The Southern Football League sends their condolences to Gary’s family and friends. BRACKLEY TOWN – The Saints have two players available for transfer. Darren Beckett is a 23 years old defender/midfielder who has made over 200 appearances, and Kevin Slinn, a forward who scored 30 goals for Bedford Town in the 2001/02 season. Slinn has also played for Raunds Town, Grantham Town, Boston United, Watford and Stockport County, for whom he scored one goal in four Football League appearances. BURNHAM - After talks late this week it was decided Shane Small-King and Phillip John would be released from the club. Small-King had been the subject of a seven day approach from AFC Newbury. After weeks of ground works at the Gore, Wymers Wood Road, the new development at the ground has at last seen construction above the surface. Steel erectors have arrived and the first signs of a building and the stand roof are visible. CIRENCESTER TOWN – Swindon born central defender, Adrian Viveash, has signed for Cirencester Town. Viveash, now 35 years old, began his career as a Youth for Swindon Town. He scored 2 goals in 54 appearances for the Robins. Whilst at the County Ground he made 11 appearances on loan for Reading and 2 for Barnsley, scoring once. In October 1995 he was transferred to Walsall, and in five seasons at Bescott Stadium he made 202 appearances and scored 13 goals for the Saddlers. Viveash was then transferred to Reading. In three years at the Madejski Stadium he scored 3 goals in 58 appearances, and appeared on 11 occasions for Oxford United, on loan before returning to Swindon Town. Amid a further 15 appearances for his hometown club, last season, he made 7 for Kidderminster Harriers on loan. The Fame of Hall Southern League clubs are renowned for doing their best to fulfil the wishes of their supporters. So when Darren Hall expressed his ambition to be the club’s Mascot at a forthcoming fixture, the Yeltz were happy to oblige. Darren was Halesowen’s Mascot at the club’s Bath City fixture last Saturday, on his 40th birthday! We all hope you had a great day, Darren. Daniels Take Diamond – But Not Forever Stamford have signed Rushden & Diamonds’ striker, Robert Duffy. The Swansea born 22 years old, who is a Wales u/18 International, has spent three years as a professional with Rushden during which time he has scored one goal in 28 appearances. Cherries Take Peacock Taunton Town’s striker Liam Moseley has been signed by AFC Bournemouth on a YTS contract. Moseley, 16 years old, has been attracting the attention of Football League scouts since signing for Taunton at the start of the season. The Cherries invited Moseley to play in a trial match and were sufficiently impressed to offer him a contract. Moseley made his farewell appearance for the Peacocks against Cinderford Town on New Years Day. He signed off with a goal only two minutes after coming on a substitute. As well as Taunton winning 5-3, after trailing three times, the game was notable for eight different goal scorers. Moseley’s departure is another blow for Taunton manager Russell Musker, after losing the services of captain and central defender Alex Watson to Clevedon Town. Better news arrived this week, though, when another central defender, Dale Peckham, rejected an offer from Mangotsfield United. TRANSFERS – Michael Boyle-Chong (Stamford to Rothwell Town), Marc Burrows (Corby Town to Hemel Hempstead Town), Paul Cobb (Aveley to Tilbury), Robert Duffy (Rushden & Diamonds to Stamford [temporary]), David Gilroy (Weston-super-Mare to Chippenham Town [temporary]), Philip Male (Bedworth United to Bromsgrove Rovers), Jack Midson (Dagenham & Redbridge to Hemel Hempstead Town [temporary]), Jacob Mingle (Staines Town to Ashford Town (Middx) [temporary]), Jonathan Rowe (Hednesford Town to Sutton Coldfield Town). DATE: 10 JANUARY 2005 GX Soccer Club Of The Month Premier Division – Aylesbury United Hereward Sports Teamwear & Trophies Premier Division – Cirencester Town THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – Despite being well into the second half of the season, the twenty-two clubs in the Premier Division are still covered by just 22 points! Leaders Merthyr Tydfil dropped two home points at the weekend, to a revitalised Tiverton Town. Christopher Vinnicombe put the Devonshire side ahead a minute after half-time, but Craig Steins levelled for the Wales’ side a minute later. Second placed Bedford Town’s recent run of good form came to a relatively surprising end at bottom club Dunstable Town. The defeat knocked the Eagles two places back in the table, but lifted Dunstable two places higher. Chippenham Town moved into second spot, once again, by crushing Hemel Hempstead Town 5-2. Histon are now third, after demolishing Stamford 3-0. The Daniels are ahead of only Solihull Borough, at the foot of the table. THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION ONE EAST – Fisher Athletic returned to winning ways at the weekend, albeit by the narrowest of margins, 1-0, at Aveley. Anthony Riviere’s 74th minute goal restored Fisher’s lead at the top to seven points, whilst nearest challengers Uxbridge were losing by the same score at Arlesey Town. Ozzie Foster was Arlesey’s match winner. Barking & East Ham United won comfortably, 3-0, at Chatham Town to move into third spot. And East Thurrock United’s 1-0 win at Barton Rovers, thanks to a Vincent John goal, keeps the Essex side comfortably amongst the Play-Off contenders. Having picked up their first home win of the season last Saturday, like a London bus, another one immediately arrived for Great Wakering Rovers. GWR won 2-0 at home to Tilbury, to keep alive their hopes of avoiding relegation, but at the same time increase the Dockers’ chances of dropping through the trapdoor. Tilbury are now seven points adrift at the foot of the table. THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION ONE WEST – A 3-0 win at Burnham keeps Mangotsfield United on top of the table. David Seal, Michael Meaker and Robert Claridge were ‘Fields scorers. A Jermaine Clarke brace, for Evesham United against Bracknell Town, maintained the Robins position in second spot. Yate Town and Clevedon Town are third & fourth, separated by goal difference. Both won by four clear goals on Saturday: Yate defeated Sutton Coldfield Town 5-1 and Clevedon melted down the Steelmen from Corby 4-0. ASHFORD TOWN (MIDDX) – The Tangerines new Manager, Mark Butler, has appointed Rory Gleeson as his Assistant. Rory was previously associated with Chertsey Town, where the roles were reversed with Mark assisting Rory. Butler has also made his first player signings. Darren Flaherty, a left sided midfield player, previously with Chertsey Town, Staines Town and Beckenham Town has signed. Flaherty went straight into Butler’s squad, as a replacement for broken ankle victim, Paul Johnson. In addition, 16 years old Ricky Wellard, son of Under-18 Assistant Manager Lenny Wellard, has now signed Southern League forms following some impressive performances in the Reserves. Last Wednesday evening he scored in a 7-3 win over AFC Wimbledon. Affectionately known as “Bones” the 6 feet plus youngster was on the bench for Saturday’s visit to Stourport Swifts. A trio of new signings was completed when Derek Harris signed from Spelthorne Sports. AYLESBURY UNITED – Aylesbury’s fixture against Dunstable Town on 3 January represented the Ducks’ 500th Southern League game. Aylesbury celebrated with a 5-0 victory. Fanatical Aylesbury supporter, David Figg (now based in Oswestry and affectionately know by other Ducks’ followers as ‘Brains’) will be writing a comprehensive statistical history of the club’s life in the Southern League in a forthcoming Match Day Programme. BANBURY UNITED - Wayne Blossom started this season as a right-back. Since then, he has played at left-back, centre-half and striker. He has now been moved into midfield. Will he make it a full-set by turning out in goal, just like a local Horsham lad, I remember, did back in the early 70’s?! (I can still dream, can’t I?) BATH CITY – 30 years old midfielder, Darren Caskey, has signed for the Romans. The Basildon born England Schools and Youth International began his career with Tottenham Hotspur. He scored four goals in 32 appearances for Spurs, and one in 6 appearances on loan for Watford, whilst at White Hart Lane. During the following five years he made 202 appearances for Reading, scoring 35 goals, before moving on to Notts. County. After 114 appearances, and 10 goals, for the Magpies, Caskey moved to Bristol City last season. Before making an appearance for the Robins, the player moved to Peterborough United this season. BOREHAM WOOD - Striker Sammy Winston is available for transfer. Winston is a proven goal scorer at top non-league level and has scored 56 goals in 85 appearances for Boreham Wood. A fee will be required. The player must not be contacted direct. Interested parties must contact Chairman Danny Hunter. HARLOW TOWN – In conjunction with local League side Risden Wood FC, the Hawks are organising a Benefit match in aid of the Tsunami disaster fund. The match will be staged at Harlow Town FC on Wednesday 19th January 2005, kick off 7.45pm. The match will be contested between a Harlow & District League Veterans XI and a Veterans/Celebrity XI. If you have ever fancied playing in front of a big crowd now is your chance, as a place in either side is up for auction on ebay. For more details visit www.risdenwoodfc.com and click the benefit match link. HEDNESFORD TOWN – The Pitmen have announced
that the School Complimentary Tickets project will be in force at
two more home games before the end of the season. 2000 tickets were
distributed amongst the schools for last Monday’s home game
against Stamford and just over 200 youngsters took advantage of
the offer, helping to swell the crowd to 828, the biggest of the
season. Managing Director, Terry Brumpton, confirmed that 2000 complimentary
tickets will be issued for the home games on Saturday 19 February
against Hitchin Town and on Monday 28 March for the visit of Rugby
United. The Pitmen thank local printing company Speedprint of Cannock
for their sponsorship in printing the tickets. HISTON – The Stutes are offering supporters the chance to buy a ticket for Histon’s next three home fixtures on 22 January (v Cirencester), 25 January (v Leighton Town) and 29 January (v Bedford Town) at a reduced rate. From this Saturday up to Friday 21st January fans can purchase a match ticket for just £15 per Adult & £7 for concessions. The three-part ticket was available from Saturday’s match against Stamford. The special ticket offers a saving of £9 on Adult tickets and £5 on concessionary tickets. Club members who purchase the three-match ticket will also be given a match day programme for each game. Twenty Histon fans will enjoy an ‘inside view’ of next week’s F A Trophy Tie against Team Bath. The supporters will join the Histon players by joining the team for the trip to Twerton Park. The twenty eager fans will travel with the team on Saturday lunch time, enjoy dinner with the players on Saturday evening before travelling with the team to the game on Sunday for the 1.00pm kick-off. Histon have given Hemel Hempstead Town seven days notice of approach for Grant Carney. Carney began the season with Dunstable Town. The Stutes are also negotiating with a defender, who is resident in the county, and currently plays a Football Conference club. MARLOW – The Blues have joined forces with Wycombe Wanderers FC to organise a match for the benefit of the Tsunami Appeal. Several Wycombe ‘legends’ have already agreed to take part. Former England International, Phil Parkes, will also be in attendance. Further details will be published as arrangements are finalised. The game will be played at The Alfred Davis Ground, Marlow on 19 January. It is hoped to raise £10,000. SITTINGBOURNE - Sittingbourne's recent home match against Maldon Town was the club’s 1,000 Southern League Match. The home match against Beaconsfield was their 500th home Southern League match. The Brickies have appointed former Dover Athletic Manager, Richard Langley as Assistant manager to newly appointed Team Boss, Steve Nolan. TIVERTON TOWN – Liverpool born Terrence Peter Conning has re-signed for Tiverton. Conning, now 40 years old, scored once in 39 appearances for Rochdale during 1986. WALTHAM FOREST – The worthy award recently presented to Oxford City’s John Shepperd, prompted Waltham Forest Secretary, Andy Perkins, to think of his club President George Gross. George was Waltham’s Chairman from the early 1960s until 1995. Since then he has been President. He never misses a match (home or away), despite living south of the river, and never misses a Committee Meeting, where I am told he is very active! George will be 86 next birthday. Where would football be without such magnificent service?! Well done, George. TRANSFERS – Mark Barnes (Hitchin Town to Barton Rovers), Shane Campbell (Sittingbourne to Great Wakering Rovers), Tom Gott (Berkhamsted Town to Chesham United), Christopher Green (Arlesey Town to Hemel Hempstead Town), Ben L’ Honore (Leighton Town to Dunstable Town), Bradley Hughes (Chesham United to Cheshunt [temporary]), Renier Moor (Bath City to Clevedon Town), Ian Pullman (Margate to Erith & Belvedere), Brian Statham (East Thurrock United to Erith & Belvedere), Michael Swan (Solihull Borough to Bedworth United). DATE: 3 JANUARY 2005 RON TIMMINGS After a long illness former Sutton Coldfield Town Committee Member, and Southern Football League Management Committee Member, Ron Timmings, passed away just before Christmas. PETER WEBSTER The end of the year came to a tragic end for the Barking & East Ham United when it was announced Chairman Peter Webster died suddenly on Thursday 30 December. Peter was 53 years old and had been at the club’s helm for seven months. Having played for Chingford and Woodford Town, the successful businessman fulfilled an ambition by eventually taking over, and rescuing Barking & East Ham United FC after becoming the club’s sponsor four years ago. He purchased the club, became Chairman, cleared the accumulated debts, and was responsible for erecting new floodlights, installing a new irrigation system beneath the pitch, restored the Youth Team and helped assemble what is believed to be the club’s strongest playing squad since 1978/9 when the club won the Isthmian League. Peter is survived by his wife, Verna, and daughters Victoria & Cathryn. Everyone connected with the Southern Football League sends their sincere condolences to the families and friends of both Ron and Peter. THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION – Merthyr Tydfil emerged from the Christmas/New Year holiday programme, still at the top of the Table. The Martyrs lead, though, has been reduced to two points. Bedford Town now head the chasing pack, one point above Chippenham Town and three ahead of Histon and Chesham United. Dunstable Town slumped to the foot of the Table after conceding thirteen goals in two games. THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION ONE EAST – After being held to a home draw by Uxbridge, League leaders Fisher Athletic lost 2-1 at home to Maldon Town. Fisher remain in pole position but their lead has been cut to four points. Uxbridge, who defeated Erith & Belvedere 3-1 but were then held to a goalless draw by Dartford, are second – eight points ahead of Berkhamsted Town. Bottom club Tilbury secured their second home win of the season by beating Sittingbourne 2-1 on Bank Holiday Monday. On the same day, Great Wakering Rovers won their first home match of the campaign by beating Aveley 5-2. THE SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION ONE WEST – Mangotsfield United returned to the top of the Table before Christmas and have moved in January, still on top, with a one point advantage over Evesham United. Yate Town have surged up the Division, into third spot, and now head Clevedon Town and Rothwell Town on 40 points. Egham Town picked up another point on Bank Holiday Monday, but remain 16 points adrift at the bottom. ASHFORD TOWN (MIDDLESEX) – Following the surprise resignation of Manager Nathan Wharf, after a Middlesex Senior Cup defeat against Hampton & Richmond Borough, a Board meeting appointed Mark Butler as the Club's new Team Manager. Mark, who is well known for his scoring exploits as a player with Staines Town and Aldershot, has acquired managerial practice at both Staines and Chertsey. He has impressed everyone at Ashford since his arrival in the summer. Jamie-Lee Smithers, who fractured an ankle against Taunton Town on 18 December, went into hospital three days before Christmas for an operation. It is now hoped he will be back in training in 10-14 weeks time. Paul Johnson suffered a double fracture and snapped ligaments in the Bank Holiday Monday fixture against Burnham. Johnson was taken to St. Peters Hospital, Chertsey but was released before the end of the day. It will not be possible to assess the full extend of the injury until later this week. AYLESBURY UNITED – The Ducks have signed Luke Graham, a first year professional with Northampton Town, on temporary transfer. BATH CITY – The Romans have renewed the temporary transfer of Forest Green Rovers’ Ben Cleverley for a further month. They have also signed Cheltenham Town’s 20 years old striker, Luke Corbett, on loan. Worcester born Corbett has been a professional at Whaddon Road for two years. He has, so far, made one Football League appearance for the Robins. BEACONSFIELD SYCOB – Wycombe Wanderers scholar, Steven Gregory, has joined Beaconsfield SYCOB for work experience. SYCOB's former leading goalscorer, Leon Callender, who finished up as the club's leading League goal scorer last year in a ‘double’ winning season, refused to sign an extension to his playing contract at the start of the new campaign. Callender was previously of the books of Wycombe Wanderers as a youth player, before embarking on a non-league career, which has seen him play for Wembley, Yeading, Edgware Town and Boreham Wood, before rejoining the Rams in 2003. Callender has moved on to Chesham United. Meanwhile, the Rams have re-signed 17-year-old James Faulker, from Wycombe, on work experience until the end of January 2005 to cover Callender's absence. BEDWORTH UNITED – Last Saturday’s trip to Oxford City may have ended with a 1-0 defeat, but it was a significant day for 16 years old goalkeeper Andrew Kemp. Kemp, the Greenbacks’ Youth Team custodian had spent the week having a trial with Crewe Alexandra. Upon his return he was immediately called into First Team action when Lee Evans was suspended for three week’s and his normal replacement, Daniel Whitehouse, fell ill on the morning of the match with a hernia problem. Kemp was beaten only by a 62nd minute strike by Stuart Douglas to give Oxford their first home win of the season. BRACKLEY TOWN – Oxford United scholar, Angus MacKay, has joined Brackley Town for work experience. BURNHAM - The Blues were busy in the build up to Christmas and the New Year bringing in some new & old players. Goalkeeper David Dyson returned to the club after a break of 5 years. The big custodian last played for Burnham on Sunday 9 January 2000 away to Erith & Belvedere at the ground of Welling United, and unfortunately suffered a broken leg. Now fully recovered, the Blues signed him last Thursday from Welton Rovers. Also making a welcome return to the club before the Christmas break was Arron Lennon. The third player to sign before the holiday was young Alex Toley who has been away at University and who the club hopes will be available more in the New Year. Another new face is midfielder Simon Goodhram. CHIPPENHAM TOWN – The Bluebirds held a collection at their New Year’s Day fixture against Tiverton Town, and raised £350.00 for the DEC Tsunami Fund. EAST THURROCK UNITED – Former Boreham Wood player, Dominic Grime, has signed for East Thurrock United. DUNSTABLE TOWN – Crystal Palace scholar, Ricci Dolan, has joined Dunstable Town on work experience. EVESHAM UNITED – Following the cancellation of Richard Ball’s contract at Sutton Coldfield Town, the Robins have signed the former Stourport Swifts and Halesowen Town striker. GLOUCESTER CITY – City Director Don King
celebrated his 83rd birthday on Christmas Day. Don knows a During City’s match against Merthyr on Monday a collection was organised by the club and its Supporters Trust for the Asian Disaster Appeal. A sum in excess of £516 was raised - a fantastic effort from a crowd of 521. The Supporters Trust have also decided that the proceeds from the next three matches "Golden Goal" competition, and a raffle at the forthcoming quiz night will also be donated to the appeal. It is hoped their fundraising efforts in January will take the sum past £750. HARLOW TOWN – Gillingham FC has granted permission for Harlow Town to utilise Danny Knowles on work experience. HISTON – The Stutes have signed Francesco Nacca on a month’s loan from Cambridge United. The 22 years old Venezuelan born defender has so far made 26 Football League appearances for United during four years at the Abbey Stadium. MANGOTSFIELD UNITED – ‘Field have made two more signings. Michael Meaker, a winger/striker has joined from Henley Town, where he has scored 16 goals in 13 games this season. He has Football League experience with QPR (34 apps – 1 goal), Plymouth Argyle (4 apps on loan), Reading (67-2), Sheffield United, Bristol Rovers (22-2), Swindon Town (8 apps on loan) and Torquay United. 25 years old Ross Casey, who has been playing for Slimbridge, has also signed. Casey is a central midfielder who spent a year as a professional at Cheltenham Town. Has also played for Newport County, Inter Cardiff, Gloucester City and Yate Town. A collection at Mangotsfield’s New Year’s day fixture against Stourport Swifts raised over £500 for the DEC Tsunami Fund. Further fund raising for the remainder of the week is expected to take the sum over £600. OXFORD CITY – Further to last week’s Bulletin, it can now be confirmed the award presented to club Secretary John Shepperd was one of five framed diplomas allocated to The Football Association by UEFA, to mark UEFA’s Golden Jubilee Year. UEFA’s objective was to recognise the part played by people in European football during the past 50 years. John has been with his club throughout this period, including 30 years as Secretary. A worthy winner! SOLIHULL BOROUGH – 19 years old forward, Robert Taylor, has signed a contract with Solihull Borough. Taylor has previously played for Stourport Swifts and Redditch United. Following the conclusion of his temporary transfer from Redditch United, Scott Voice, has made his stay at Solihull into a permanent move. STAMFORD – Lincoln City FC has given permission for Thomas Kemp to play for the Daniels on work experience. SWINDON SUPERMARINE – Having had his contract cancelled at Forest Green Rovers, Adrian Adams has signed for Swindon Supermarine. Adams played in the Southern League earlier in the season whilst on loan at Paulton Rovers. TEAM BATH – The Students have signed goalkeeper Ian Andrews. The 6’2” Nottingham born custodian, now 40 years old, began his career as an apprentice with Leicester City. He made 126 appearances for the Foxes, and one on loan at Swindon Town, whilst at Filbert Street, before moving to Glasgow Celtic. After 5 appearances for the Bhoys, and one on loan at Leeds United, Andrews moved to Southampton where he made a further 10 Football League appearances. After several seasons at The Dell, Andrews moved to Bournemouth, where he made 64 appearances, before concluding his career back at Leicester City. Team Bath’s Ryan Northmore has signed a long term temporary transfer to play for Weston-super-Mare for the remainder of the season. TILBURY – After a dismal start to the season, the Dockers have called time on the tenure of Manager Paul Joynes. Much travelled defender, Garry Kimble, has been appointed in a Caretaker capacity to work with Commercial Manager Neil Speight. Kimble, now 38 years old, played for eight Football League clubs during a seven year professional career. After progressing from Charlton Athletic Juniors, he made 9 appearances for the Valiants and 1 on loan at Exeter City, whilst at The Valley. He subsequently turned out for Cambridge United (41 apps), Doncaster Rovers (65), Fulham (3), Maidstone United (0), Gillingham (48) and Peterborough United. Whilst with Peterborough, Kimble scored the only goal of the game when Posh knocked Liverpool out of the League Cup in 1991. Since leaving the full-time game Kimble has played for Dagenham, Purfleet, Grays Athletic, Chelmsford City, Canvey Island, Braintree Town and Harlow Town. Neil Speight gained much experience of the non-Football League scene in the north of England, before moving to Essex. TIVERTON TOWN - Yeovil Town striker Kezie Ibe was recalled by the Glovers from his loan period at Tiverton recently, after hitting 7 goals in 13 appearances, including a hat-trick against Newport County in the FA Cup. A few days after returning to Huish Park, Ibe joined Exeter City on loan. He scored on his debut for the Grecians in a 2-1 win at Tamworth. Ibe has been replaced at Ladysmead by young Exeter City striker Sean Canham. Canham has joined for an initial one month’s loan. So far, he has failed to score in four appearances. Another player coming in is 30 years old Bradley Haynes who has
joined from Backwell United. He made his debut in the festive fixture
against Team Bath. Just before kick-off in this fixture Tivvy boss
Martyn Rogers was rocked by the news that ex-Luton and York keeper
Mark Ovendale, an ever-present for the Yellows this season, had
been injured in a car crash on the way to the game. His BMW was
written off in the crash and the keeper was treated in hospital
for neck and shoulder injuries. But two more signings were made prior to the 3 January programme. Paul Buckle and Kurt Nogan joined Martyn Rogers’ squad in time for the game against Bath City. Nogan retired from the full-time game in 2001, due to injury. The Wales’ u/21 International played for Luton Town (33 apps-3 goals), Peterborough United, Brighton & Hove Albion (97-49), Burnley (92-33), Preston North End (93-27) and Cardiff City (18-1). Buckle played for Brentford ((57-1), Torquay United (59-9), Exeter City (22-2) Northampton Town (-), Wycombe Wanderers (-) and Colchester United ((105-7). WALTHAM FOREST – Forest finished December with double celebrations. After going through October and November without a win, they went through the whole of December without defeat in the League and the Essex Senior Cup. The second reason for celebration is the award of the FA's coveted Charter Standard. The award was gained through the hard work of Martin and Sharon Fitch who not only run the Reserve Team, but also administer the youth system, which has teams from age 8 to 18. TRANSFERS – Tristan Chambers (Tilbury to Wivenhoe Town), Ben Cleverley (Forest Green Rovers to Bath City [temporary-renewal]), Luke Corbett (Cheltenham Town to Bath City [temporary]), John Curtis (Tilbury to Great Wakering Rovers), Luke Graham (Northampton Town to Aylesbury United [temporary]), Daniel Harris (Tilbury to East Thurrock United), Robert Harris (King’s Lynn to Spalding United [temporary]), Gary Howard (Tilbury to Maldon Town), Glen Lamacraft (Leighton Town to Hitchin Town), Matthew Miller (Slough Town to Thame United [temporary]), Thomas Mills (Rothwell Town to Corby Town), Francesco Nacca (Cambridge United to Histon [temporary]), Leonard Piper (Fisher Athletic to Tonbridge Angels [temporary]), Mark Reed (Berkhamsted Town to Arlesey Town), Justin Rowe (Gresley Rovers to Sutton Coldfield Town [temporary]), Dale Skelton (Dover Athletic to Chatham Town [temporary]), Michael Smissen (Dover Athletic to Chatham Town [temporary]), Christopher Sorhaindo (Aveley to Tilbury), Darren Spinks (Arlesey Town to Tilbury), Christopher Sullivan (Stevenage Borough to Arlesey Town [temporary]), Christopher Zorilich (St. Albans City to Boreham Wood [temporary]). IN OFF THE POST A message from:- Clive Stevens, Hospital Radio Wey, Chertsey, Surrey (www.radiowey.co.uk) Based at St. Peter's Hospital in Chertsey, Hospital Radio Wey reported from a record breaking seven matches during last Saturday's Sportscene programme, despite most local teams they usually cover all playing away. Volunteer reporters travelled far and wide. The Patients of the three hospitals the station broadcasts to were kept up to date with events at Taunton Town (against Ashford Town, Burnham v Yate Town, Saines Town v Salisbury City, Chertsey Town v Witham, Leatherhead v Cray Wanderers, and Walton & Hersham against Burgess Hill Town. As Woking were also away (at Carlisle), which proved too much for a travelling team, a reporter was sent to Aldershot v Leigh RMI. With just one presenter and two telephone lines in the studio, it was a very busy afternoon for anchor man Tim Mitchell. But things should improve for Tim when the station’s new studio is built during 2005, for which £54K of the £195k project cost has already been raised. In the meantime, volunteer reporters in the Egham and Ashford areas, with mobile phones to provide regular match updates, would be welcomed.
|