Aylesbury FC vs Aylesbury United - 22nd April 2019

v Aylesbury United Monday 22nd April 2019 Evo-Stik South – Division One Central

AYLESBURY F.C. A SAD FAREWELL.............NO! So we come to the final programme notes for Aylesbury F.C and it seems fitting that today we welcome our neighbours from Aylesbury United. So firstly can I extend a warm welcome to today’s visitors, committee, players and supporters, I hope you enjoy your day but not too much!

Following the news that Aylesbury F.C would be relegated this season regardless of our final league position a great deal of soul searching went on as you can imagine. In my time connected with the club, some 20 years, I have witnessed many ups and downs, although never a relegation and I must say it hurts.

On the pitch with all the turmoil surrounding the club, I personally think we were setting Paul and his coaches an impossible task, how could they possibly motivate a group of players to go and fight for points which at the end of the day would be irrelevant come the end of the season. It would have been simple for them to blame everything on the clubs situation but they never did, they simply rolled up their sleeves and got on with it and now however the season ends I for one am immensely proud of what these guys have done.

So where do we go from here? It would be very simple for us to blame the football authorities, run away and hide, but that is just not our way. I think looking back now since I originally came to the club I’ve always liked the slightly rebellious “we’ll do it our way” attitude and our current position is no different. We dust ourselves down and go again, bigger, better and stronger!

The next question is obviously how? How do we rebuild and go again? How do we grow stronger?

It’s really quite simple - it’s people, people who play, watch and organise, the people who are willing to give up their time for no reward, a simple answer but how can it be achieved? Well for once the answer was obvious, the amalgamation with Bedgrove Dynamos.

One of the dictionary definitions of the word dynamo is an energetic force, and having been involved in all the discussions with the Dynamos I believe they could not be better named. It has been so refreshing setting out the future of our football club with a group of people who are so enthusiastic about the future and have total commitment, and although I’m sure at times they’ve wondered just what they’re letting themselves in for they just seem more enthusiastic by the day. It must be pointed out that this working together has at no point been about one club taking over another but, bringing together two groups of people with the same ambitions.

The restructuring of the club, including changing name and colours, was a decision not taken lightly, the histories of both clubs are important ones, it’s not the first time we have changed things around and we’ll continue to do whatever we think is best for the club to improve and move forward.

Aylesbury F.C and Bedgrove Dynamos have both represented football in Aylesbury for many years with proud histories and achievements which will never be forgotten, it’s just simply time to write new history together.

So where next? Again simple, 28 teams, hundreds of players and mountains of work to do, so we can provide everything those coaches players and supporters need, upgrading facilities at Haywood, ensuring the progression of the young players through the club, it goes on and on, but it’s certainly a challenge we’re all ready to face.

Many years ago I travelled to an away game in North London with a dear friend of mine, we arrived early and stopped to watch a mini soccer game on an outside pitch, after 3 or 4 minutes a young boy probably about 10 years old scored an absolute screamer and celebrated as if he’d won the champions league. My friend turned to me and said “ that’s what it’s all about, start them young, coach them properly and bring them right through your club” I suspect he would approve.

Steve

Good afternoon and welcome back to the SRD Stadium for the much anticipated ‘EL Quackico ‘ A warm welcome goes to Ben Williams and all connected with Aylesbury Utd. I hope your short stay with us is a pleasant one and ends with an entertaining game of football. I have been involved in a few of the derbies and I love the atmosphere and spirit they are played in. I have huge respect for Ben as a manager and it’s a real test of my ability as a coach to try and get a result against his side.

AUFC come to us on the back of playing the top three which all connected with the league know this is a tough task, sitting 14th in league and ‘safe’ they come into this fixture with bragging rights the main agenda.

Having watched them a few times this season I’ve been really impressed with how Ben has had them organised and how hard they work for each other. The likes of Jack Wood, Greg Williams are huge players for them, and both showed their quality in the previous fixture.

Having lost to North Leigh , it has put us bottom of the league, I would love to say our performances have been good and the position is false but as a squad , management team we have not performed to the levels we need to be at to survive in step 4. We had a good opportunity to catch Dunstable and Kidlington but failed to capitalise with a poor performance.

The players are hurting, and we are demanding a reaction, we have proved that on our day we can match the top teams in this league, morale might be low, but we will go out fighting and will not lay down for another side this season. It is my job to pick the lads up, the buck sticks with me and it’s my responsibility to get results for this football club.

This will be our last home game of the season and I would like to thank you all for your support this season, It must have been tough from a fans point of view as we have not performed consistently throughout the year but we have always appreciated your support home and away. I hope we can repay you with a win in the derby!!!!

Paul

The club has enjoyed a long history in senior and junior football dating back to the 1930’s under the previous names of Aylesbury Vale, Haywood United, Belgrave, Stocklake and Negretti and Zambra FC, which was founded in the 1930’s by workers at the Negretti and Zambra company then based in London’s King Cross district. The company moved to the Stocklake Industrial Estate, Aylesbury. in 1949 and by the mid 50’s the premises had a bar, football, cricket and tennis facilities. The football club joined the Aylesbury District League in 1954. The social club changed its name to Stocklake when Negretti and Zambra sold the premises to the local council, who then leased the facilities; hence the different sections adopted the name Stocklake. Under the guidance of Chairman Mr Ernie Crotty, the club gained many honours including runners up in ADL’s top divisions, before gaining intermediate status in the Wycombe and District League first and senior divisions. Sadly Ernie was killed in a road accident just before the club moved premises to the present location at Haywood Way in 1987.

After gaining senior status and promotion to the Chiltern League in 1988, Stocklake enjoyed many further successes including Division One runners up in 1991, Premier Division and League Cup runners up the following season and Wycombe Senior Cup success in 1995. Cup success was also followed on in the following season, this time the Berks and Bucks Intermediate Cup being added to the trophy cabinet.

Belgrave FC was formed in 1983 by Jim Sullivan who lived in nearby Belgrave Road. Jim had two sons who were passionate about football but were limited to where they could play, so formed a team himself with the help of neighbours Lynne and David Hatcher. By 1990, under the guidance of Danny Martone, Belgrave had grown to five youth teams providing football for over ninety boys from the Quarrendon and Haydon Hill areas of Aylesbury.

1996 saw the forming of two senior teams under the Belgrave FC name and by the turn of the millennium teams were represented at all levels from Under 8’s through to seniors, some 200 players being registered, this also including Stocklake Ladies. In 2000 four youth teams won league and cup honours, whilst the senior team went on to win the Aylesbury District Cup, the Field Shield and ADL Premier Division runners up.

At the start of the 2000/2001 season, the senior Belgrave FC team was renamed Haywood United following an amalgamation with Stocklake FC with Danny Martone voted in as chairman of the new club.

Haywood United joined the Spartan South Midlands League and won promotion into Division One after two seasons. Notable achievements during the 2001/2002 season included league awards for the best kept and most improved ground; this included the erection of floodlights and perimeter fencing, which Danny and his hard working committee fought hard to establish. Another award was gained for the match day programme in recognition of how much the club was developing.

Season 2002/2003 saw a difficult start in Division One, but with the arrival of manager Jon Franklin and his assistant Keith Walker just after Christmas, the club eventually consolidated finishing in 9th place.

Promotion was gained to the South Midlands Premier Division the following year after a campaign that saw 23 wins, 7 draws and only 4 losses. Haywood United proved themselves capable of staying in the Premier Division after finishing 3rd in the 2004/2005 season in a campaign that only include one loss in the twenty matches after Christmas. The club also entered the FA Cup and Vase for the first time and won the Buckingham Charity Cup in 2006.

Season 2006/2007 began with Haywood United becoming Aylesbury Vale FC and saw Keith Walker and Steve Gleinster take over as joint managers and steadily build a squad. This was recognised in the 2008/2009 season with a good cup run in the FA Cup and FA Vase, winning three rounds in the FA Cup losing to Level 4 side Gosport after a replay, and losing out in the 4th round of the FA Vase to Leiston Town.

After Christmas the side suffered due to long term injuries and finished mid table. May 2009 saw a major new development in a new semi professional side. Aylesbury Football Club was formed under the leadership of Chairman Roger Dance and assisted by Vice Chairman Danny Martone. Former Chairman Bill Harrison was made President of the club.

Great success on the field of play was to follow, with the team having a fantastic run in the F.A. Cup. We were the last 'level five' team in the country to remain in the competition and were rewarded with a visit to Haywood Way for the F.A. Cup trophy, allowing the team, supporters and local people to get their hands on this famous trophy and make the most of this memorable occasion. We were finally knocked out of the competition by Wealdstone in a close game. A brave and superb display was witnessed by a bumper crowd of 800 plus.

Meanwhile, away from the midst of F.A. Cup drama, our success continued, becoming 'Double Winners' Winning both the Spartan South Midland League and League Cup capping an extraordinary season and gaining promotion to the Southern League Division 1 Central.

Steve Bateman took over in 2013/14, steered the club to safety in his first 6 months in charge. Then in 2014/15 with Bateman at the helm FC has their most successful season to date most successful to date.

Playing at the highest level in the club’s history, the team finished third in the League, having been pushing for promotion all season and narrowly lost out in the semi final to Bedworth United having already beaten them twice in the league the 2015/16 finished with a flourish as the club finished just outside the play off positions, but had the consolation of our first major Cup Final, beating Chesham United in the Berks & Bucks Cup at Windsor.

Steve Bateman and his management team resigned at the end of the season and Danny Gordon & Gareth Risbridger took the helm , supported by Paul Bonham , Ryan Wiffin & Aaron Norman. Davis Haule took over from Gordon & Risbridger in December 2016, appointed brother Brian as his assistant and recruited former coaches Fraser McLachlan, Aaron Wiffin and added Ryan Collings to his back room staff for the 2017/18 season.

2017/18 was a difficult season for club finishing 21st and avoiding relegation due to the League re organisation. This season sees a new era with ex Leighton manager Scott Reynolds taking over the reigns assisted by Matt Moran, Lea Coulter and the returning Paul Bonham.

Next season the club returns Aylesbury Vale Dynamos after coming together with the Bedgrove Dynamos with the clear ambitions to progress to higher league football and to achieve higher league status with squads from local talent. The club hopes to continue to work with other local community groups and enhance the clubs facilities to benefit the people within Aylesbury.

Paul Bonham - Manager Returning to the club, most recently employed by Oxford United as academy coach and studying his UEFA B license. Paul was Manager of the U18s, Development Side and part of the FC First Team set up in previous seasons and also has experience at Buckingham Athletic.

Paul Toms - Assistant Manager Paul joins us from Amptill Town where he was manager of the Spartan League Division One side. He was also Head Coach at Burnham and had two spells at Berkhamsted FC. Paul is currently also currently on his last block of the UEFA B coaching badge and has 9 years of coaching history at all levels from Sunday league to Ladies football

Pete Forssling – Head Coach Pete is an FA Level 1 coach and looking to take his FA Level 2 in the summer. His previous roles have been at Berkhamsted Development as Coach and more recently he was First Team Coach at Ampthill Town.

Phil Cave – Goalkeeping Coach Phil is a UEFA B licensed outfield and UEFA B licensed goalkeeper coach. His previous experiences include Academy goalkeeper coach at both Brentford and QPR. Phil has recently moved to Aylesbury and is joining the club as specific goalkeeper coach.

Phil Duffy – Kit Manager Phil worked with Scott and his team at Leighton Town. Phil is an integral part of match day preparation and responsible for ensuring all kit and equipment is ready prior to player and staff arrival on match day and training nights. Phil will also take over as club photographer and work closely with the media team to enhance the match day experience at Haywood Way

Josh Thompson

Nick Bennion

Previous Clubs Ampthill Town, Berkhamsted, Loughborough University

Previous Clubs Southall, Winslow United, Marlow, Rugby Town, Kettering Town, St Ives Town, Corby Town, Aylesbury United, Buckingham Town

Sponsor: CLAYDON PARTNERS Sponsored by: Mike Farquharson

Nick is an experienced Goalkeeper with a number of non league clubs to his name. Tall, commanding and aggressive. Nicks presence behind the back four will be a huge asset this season. Nick joins from our neighbours Leighton Town

Sponsor: ROSANNA MARTONE

Ben Stevens

Craig Carby

Previous Clubs Ayesbury United

Previous clubs: Chalfont St. Peter, Burnham, Northwood, Hendon

Sponsor: ROSANNA MARTONE

Another senior player returns and commits to the Moles. 36 year old central defender who’s physical presence will add strength to the back line. Experienced player with a list of non league clubs and successes. We are very pleased to have Craig back at the club.

Haydon Clack Previous clubs: Amersham Town, Uxbridge, Burnham

Sponsor: SRD ENGINEERING Sponsored by

All Season’s Aerials

Sponsored by:

April & Darren

Local lad & FC legend returns to the Moles after a few months out of the game. A tough tackling versatile defender & can play all along the back line. Ben joined Aylesbury FC when the club formed in 2009 and was part of the double winning side that year. Ben is Mr Consistent who just never has a bad game..

Jordan Jenkins Previous Clubs Leighton Town Into his third consecutive season with the club. No nonsense defender but also very comfortable in possession.

Scott’s first signing of the new season.

Important player and local lad.

Haydon is a left back who played initially for the FC U18s. He is a player who likes to go forward and help out in the final third. Sweet left foot and comfortable on the ball

Sponsor: JUST LOFTS

Josh is a Twenty Four year old, 6' 3" keeper signed from Ampthill. Went to school in Aylesbury and has lots of potential. Great handling and communication and is an excellent addition to the squad

Sponsor: RYAN COLLINGS

Sam Odusoga

Derek Feyi

Previous clubs: Edgeware Town, Dunstable Town, Hadley, Grays Athletic, Stenhousemuir (Scotland)

Previous Clubs Marlow, Thame United,

Sam joins us from Edgeware , has really impressed in training. Very versatile two footed, creative midfielder. Skilful and good at dead ball situations.

A powerful Defender who can play either at the Centre of Defence or at left Back. Derek is returning to club on dual registration with Marlow FC

Sponsor: APRIL & DARREN

Lewis Merridan

Paul Field

Previous Clubs: Thame United

Young Defender on loan from Stevenage Borough. Can play all across the back line. Good in the air but with a great enginr=e and ability to get forward

Technically gifted and energetic midfield player. Likes to keep the game simple , but happy to get stuck in and make a tackle or two.

Lewis can play central midfield or at full back. Former clubs include Watford, MK College academy and Walsall.

Sponsor: JEFF MORRIS

Elliot Amadieu

Davis Haule

Previous Clubs Ampthill Town, Berkhamsted, Burnham, Camberley Town

A veteran at nonleague level having played for Woking FC, Wembley FC, Hendon FC, Harrow Borough FC Staines Town FC and Ashford Town. Davis is an FC legend, extremely hard working, creative and industrious midfielder that tears through midfields. Left the club last season after a season as Manager

Elliott had stints with Camberley and Burnham before taking a break from football. Forward who can play on either wing Sponsored by: Sponsor: Mike Farquharson BRIGHT WEALTH MGT

Sponsor: SRD ENGINEERING

Bruno Brito

Sponsor: OLD PLUMB

Former Portuguese professional football will soon become a hit with the moles fans.

Very skilful and athletic wide player who can also play through the middle. Scorer of some incredible goals at this level and higher. An experiment ex professional who has had spells with Newport Pagnell Town, Aylesbury Utd and Leighton Town since moving to the UK.

Ryan Young Previous Clubs Stotfold, Berkhamsted, Dunstable Town, Queens Park Rangers

Sponsor: RUSS/CHRISTINE & SOPHIA

Ty Deacon

Ryan Young is an exciting young winger who signed this week from Berkhamsted. Ryan has really impressed in training with his pace and trickery and will be a handful for any defence. Last year he was playing in the Southern Premier Division with Dunstable Town.

Harry Scott

Previous Clubs: Kempston Rovers

Previous clubs: Berkhamsted, Thame Utd

Ty returns after joining Kempston in the summer. He progressed from the FC U18s side where he was a prolific goalscorer from the age of just 15. Ty is quick and strong, a handful for any defender. Was last season's top goal scorer.

A product of the FC U18s, Harry broke into the first team two years ago. A wide player with pace and skill, Harry is excellent from dead ball situations.

Returns from a spell at Thame United.

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

April & Darren

April & Darren

Brian Haule

Ken Feyi Previous Clubs: Aylesbury FC

‘Hauley’ has had a long and distinguished career in non league football. He made almost 150 appearances for Hendon, scoring 53 goals and he also played over 80 times for Harrow Borough. A strong and powerful front man, who knows where the goal is. Joined FC originally in 201112 and has appeared 207 times for The Moles.

Brother of Derek, Ken re joins the moles having moved back to Aylesbury following his university commitments. Strong and powerful forward player who has played and scored goals at this level previously.

Product of the U18s.

Defender

Join us on Social Media Sponsor: MIKE FARQUHARSON

#COYM @aylesburyfc www.aylesburyfc.com www.facebook.com/AylesburyFCOfficial

NAME Bruno Brito Nick Bennion Craig Carby Jordan Jenkins Carl Tappin Derek Feyi Ryan Young Ty Deacon Luke Cray Sam Odusoga Jordan Frederick Brian Haule Josh Williams Lewis Strafford Martin Griggs Temi Oladejo Aaron King Davis Haule Alfi Touceda Kyreece Martei Reece Bayliss Ryan Ware Lewis Merridan Harry Scott Steven Johnson-Fikula Haydon Clack Ben Stevens Dan Carr Ken Feyi Kyle Johnson David Femiola Hakim Nyariki Mohab Madkour Matt Newbrook Paul Field Jordan Gilbert Austin Schofield Elliott Amadieu Adam Morris Henry Adu-Opoku George Scott Joakim Ehui Jamie Keen Michael Dada Josh Thompson Archie Clarke George Boland Garry Malone Jon Munday Matt Crowther William Oliver-Twidale

App

Total FC Apps

Sub On

Sub Off

Goals

Pens

Total Goals 2018/19

MOM

38 36 34 32 29 24 24 24 22 22 17 16 15 15 15 14 13 13 13 12 10 10 10 9 8 7 7 6 6 5 4 4 4 4 4 4 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1

38 36 57 112 29 55 24 109 22 22 17 223 15 15 24 14 13 189 30 12 10 10 10 49 8 7 482 6 36 5 4 4 4 4 4 4 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1

16 0 2 0 1 4 6 1 2 4 5 3 3 1 0 2 0 2 7 10 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 5 1 0 1 3 4 0 4 1 2 0 1 0 1 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0

13 0 2 0 3 3 9 1 1 5 4 5 6 7 4 2 1 4 1 0 7 3 2 2 2 2 0 0 1 2 3 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0

8 0 0 1 1 0 3 8 1 0 1 2 1 1 5 0 3 0 0 1 2 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

8 0 0 1 1 0 3 8 1 0 1 2 1 1 6 0 3 0 0 1 2 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

3 3 1 4 4 2 2 1 1 0 1 0 3 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 2 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Total FC Apps Before 2018/19 0 0 23 80 0 31 0 85 0 0 0 207 0 0 9 0 0 176 17 0 0 0 0 40 0 0 475 0 30 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Join us on Social Media #COYM @aylesburyfc www.aylesburyfc.com www.facebook.com/AylesburyFCOfficial

Join us on Social Media #COYM @aylesburyfc www.aylesburyfc.com www.facebook.com/AylesburyFCOfficial

First Team Sat 20th April 2019 – Away to Sutton Coldfield – League KO 3.00pm Mon 22nd April 2019 – Home to Aylesbury Utd – League KO 3.00pm Sat 27th April 2019 – Away to Welwyn Garden – League KO 3.00pm Mon 6th May 2019 – Away to Winslow/Buckingham Ath - Bucks Charity Cup Final @ Buckingham Athletic First Team Adult £8.00, Concession £5.00 (OAP's / Students), Under 16’s £0.00 Development/U18s Adult £4.00, Concession £2.00 (OAP's / Students), Under 16’s £0.00 Season Tickets - £150.00 & £100 Concession For information on all FC fixtures visit aylesburyfc.com

Team

P

HW HD

HL

HF

HA AW AD AL

1

Peterborough Sports

35

15

2

1

56

2

Bromsgrove Sporting

35

16

2

0

63

14

3

Corby Town

35

14

0

4

54

4

Bedford Town

35

10

2

6

5

Didcot Town

35

10

5

6

Sutton Coldfield Town

35

6

7

Thame United

35

8

Coleshill Town

9

Berkhamsted

+/-

Pts

2 46 16

78 88

9 4

4 39 27

61 81

26

8 5

4 46 29

45 71

32

21

8 0

9 42 28

25 56

3

37

25

6 3

8 31 33

10 56

7

4

31

28

9 3

6 28 20

11 55

10

2

6

31

24

7 2

8 27 34

0 55

35

6

4

7

23

25

9 4

5 32 27

3 53

35

7

3

7

27

19

8 4

6 33 29

12 52

10 AFC Dunstable

35

5

5

7 30

36 10 1

7 25 30

-11 51

11

35

9

0

8

41

43

4 4 10 24 43 -21 43

12 Cambridge City

34

6

4

6

33

26

5 5

8 21 25

13 Kempston Rovers

35

3

6

9

27

38

8 2

7 25 30 -16 41

14 Aylesbury United

35

6

1

10

27

36

6 4

8 32 42 -19 41

15 Barton Rovers

35

4

5

9

23 40

6 5

6 19 23 -21 40

16 Welwyn Garden City

35

6

3

8

21

25

3 7

8 26 35 -13 36

17 Kidlington

34

4

3

10 20

37

5 2 10 22 41 -36 32

18 Dunstable Town

35

3

4

11

23

48

5 3

19 North Leigh

35

5

3

9

33

46

3 2 13 29 56 -40 29

20 Aylesbury FC

35

4

4

10

Yaxley

8 13 2

AF AA

15 30

3 3

3 42

9 24 35 -36 31

11 24 44 -35 28

Aylesbury United were founded in 1897 when three local sides: Night School FC, The Printing Works and Aylesbury Town decided to merge. The club, affectionately known as ‘the Ducks’ due to the famous ‘Aylesbury’ breed, have experienced some incredible highs over their long 112-year history but now battle for existence without a home ground to call their own.

In the early years United played in local leagues before joining the Spartan League in 1908 where they remained until the Second World War. 1951 saw the Ducks gain their first taste of national publicity as they became the only club from the Delphian League ever to reach the First Round Proper of the FA Cup, eventually losing to Division Three side Watford.

Aylesbury decided to turn semi-professional in 1976 and joined the Southern League, a move which got the ball rolling on the club’s most successful period. A number of events followed which were to help: In 1983 the club appointed Trevor Gould as manager, and then a year later a young local lad called Cliff Hercules made his debut, unaware that he was to become the most successful player in the club’s history. ‘Hercy’ was, and still is, an Aylesbury icon, and some 20-years later he finally hung up his boots having smashed the club records with 669 appearances and scoring 301 goals.

Promotion to the Southern Premier was soon achieved and shortly afterwards the Ducks moved to their new Buckingham Road stadium. This gave the town a new impetus and Gould’s talented squad secured the Southern League Championship in 1987/88 and gained promotion to the GM Vauxhall Conference.

United then hit the headlines again, becoming the only non-league side ever to take on the full England team, as over 6000 packed into Buckingham Road to see the Ducks take on the Three Lions.

Unfortunately United’s brush with the non-league elite only lasted one season, after which the club were relegated to the Isthmian League.

During the period between 1985 and 1992, Aylesbury boasted the best FA Cup record of any side outside the Football League, reaching at least the First Round Proper every season. The highlights being a victory over then Division Four leaders Southend United, a narrow extra time replay defeat against Northampton Town, and being shown live across Europe against Walsall.

Ironically though, it wasn’t Gould, the club’s most successful manager, who lead the Ducks to their greatest FA Cup achievement, it was his successor Steve Ketteridge in 1994/95. Once again the club became media celebrities as the ‘Duck Walk’ goal celebration was shown around the world, as Aylesbury went on to reach the Third Round Proper where they lost to Premiership side Queen’s Park Rangers at Loftus Road.

Ketteridge delivered the Isthmian League Cup title to Aylesbury, but it was to be the beginning of a rollercoaster ride for the Buckinghamshire club. After almost going out of business, the Ducks were pipped to the Isthmian League title by Sutton United a year later, despite heading the table for long periods. The following season saw United back in administration and fighting for survival both on and off the pitch.

Despite defeating Football League side Reading in the Berks and Bucks Senior Cup, for the second time in four seasons, the club was relegated to Division One for the first time in their history.

In October 2000, the legendary Hercules took time out from his duties as Development Officer to manage the Ducks, and in his brief spell in charge he secured United’s promotion back to the Isthmian Premier Division and extended the club’s proud FA Cup record with a First Round trip to Port Vale

2002/03 saw Aylesbury returned to national prominence twice. Firstly the club was privileged to play a major part in an England get together as the Buckingham Road facilities were used by Sven Goran Eriksson for a media conference and by the squad for a training session. Secondly the club made their first ever appearance in the semi-final of the FA Trophy, where the Ducks were beaten by eventual winners Burscough.

For varying reasons the club then began to cycle through a string of managers at an average rate of two a season – namely Chris Boothe, Kevin Wilson, Paul Curtis, Danny Nicholls, Jon Franklin, Tony Thompson and Mark Eaton.

But nothing was to match the low point of summer 2006. Former Chairman Bill Carroll failed in his plans to convert the Buckingham Road playing surface to a 3rd generation artificial surface, what he described as his ‘last ditch’ idea for creating a viable football club, when the Southern League and FA baulked at his ideas.

Carroll decided to cut ties with the club he had been involved with since 1997, and popular local businessman Graham Read took over the club. But in a cruel twist Aylesbury were left homeless after their lease expired.

Since that time Aylesbury have been forced to play their ‘home’ matches some twenty miles out of Aylesbury whilst the committee work hard keeping the club alive. The campaign to ‘Bring the Ducks Home’ was launched in earnest, and has generated plenty of publicity, but so far, sadly, nothing concrete in terms of a new home for the club.

There are still plenty of reasons to remain positive; a glance to our near neighbours Slough Town, who now have definite plans for a new stadium in place to end their own exile, just goes to show that with patience and perseverance it can be done, and Aylesbury United will return to their rightful place eventually.

On the pitch the club continued to do remarkably well, going close to the playoff positions in the Midlands Division for the next three seasons but a new challenge arose last summer when the previous manager defected clubs, taking almost the entire playing squad with him.

This lead to another tumultuous season which saw Martin Stone initially appointed as manager, but due to personal reasons he had to renege on his appointment less than two weeks before the first game of the season. His assistant, Byron Walton, briefly stepped into the mantle and did a sterling job in assembling a competitive team in such a short space of time. He has now moved on and former United defender Tony Joyce has moved from Buckingham Town to become the club’s new permanent manager.

Unfortunately Joyce was unable to prevent the club’s slide – which had seen them amass just one league win by October – and the club were relegated to the Spartan South Midlands League. However, Joyce built a new and strong squad which finished 6th in the league in 2010/11.

Season 2011/12 saw further progression in the league with the Ducks eventually finishing 4th after a strong run of results at the tail end of the season. There was disappointment, however in the cups with the team being out of all cup competitions by mid November.

“The 2012/13 season saw the club competing for the title, being in the top four for the entire season. Finally finishing second to Dunstable Town, we gained promotion to the Southern League courtesy of the FA’s restructuring of the feeder leagues and the additional promotional places that created.

The season was capped by securing the Spartan League premier Division Cup, beating Hadley 3-2 after extra time.

The Ducks first season back in the Southern league saw them achieve a creditable 12th place finish in a strong division. Other highlights from the season was a much better FA Cup run and notable victories against Southern Premier League opponents Hemel Hempstead Chesham and Burnham in the Berks and Bucks Senior Cup and The Red Insure Cup. The 2014/15 season saw the club finish in 13th place but made the final of the Berks and Bucks Senior Cup for the first time in ten years where we lost 4-0 to Maidenhead United from the Vanarama Conference South.

After a disappointing start to the 2015/16 season, Tony Joyce tendered his resignation after 6 years at the club and was replaced by Glyn Creaser who had been coach under Tony. In Glyn’s first full season in charge, he led the club to the semi-final of the Southern League club, before losing at Premier Division St Ives. He also guided the team to 13th position in the Central Division. While work continues trying to identify opportunities to return to playing in Aylesbury, after 2 seasons ground sharing at the ASM Stadium at Thame, a decision was made to return to The Meadow, the home of Chesham FC for the 2017/18 season.

After a disappointing start to the league campaign, the Ducks relieved manager Glyn Creaser of his responsibilities following a 6-1 home defeat against Cambridge City in Dec 17, with the team lying 2nd from the bottom of the table. His assistant Ben Williams was appointed caretaker manager in his place, before being appointed in a full time capacity in Jan 18. Ben steadied the ship successfully, integrating a number of new young players and developing a great team spirit, which saw the Ducks rise to 13th in the league, winning 9 of their last 13 matches. With the majority of the squad that finished the season signing on again and a few shrewd acquisitions, hopes are high for a successful season ahead.

The season was capped by securing the Spartan League premier Division Cup, beating Hadley 3-2 after extra time.

The Ducks first season back in the Southern league saw them achieve a creditable 12th place finish in a strong division. Other highlights from the season was a much better FA Cup run and notable victories against Southern Premier League opponents Hemel Hempstead Chesham and Burnham in the Berks and Bucks Senior Cup and The Red Insure Cup. The 2014/15 season saw the club finish in 13th place but made the final of the Berks and Bucks Senior Cup for the first time in ten years where we lost 4-0 to Maidenhead United from the Vanarama Conference South.

After a disappointing start to the 2015/16 season, Tony Joyce tendered his resignation after 6 years at the club and was replaced by Glyn Creaser who had been coach under Tony. In Glyn’s first full season in charge, he led the club to the semi-final of the Southern League club, before losing at Premier Division St Ives. He also guided the team to 13th position in the Central Division. While work continues trying to identify opportunities to return to playing in Aylesbury, after 2 seasons ground sharing at the ASM Stadium at Thame, a decision was made to return to The Meadow, the home of Chesham FC for the 2017/18 season.

After a disappointing start to the league campaign, the Ducks relieved manager Glyn Creaser of his responsibilities following a 6-1 home defeat against Cambridge City in Dec 17, with the team lying 2nd from the bottom of the table. His assistant Ben Williams was appointed caretaker manager in his place, before being appointed in a full time capacity in Jan 18. Ben steadied the ship successfully, integrating a number of new young players and developing a great team spirit, which saw the Ducks rise to 13th in the league, winning 9 of their last 13 matches. With the majority of the squad that finished the season signing on again and a few shrewd acquisitions, hopes are high for a successful season ahead.

Archie Davis - Date of Birth: 27/01/2001 A graduate from the Bucks Sports Academy team, he joined the club to offer cover for Jack Hopwood when regular number 1 Jack Sillitoe suffered a season ending foot injury. His performances in pre season have shown he has the potential to challenge Hopwood for his position this season. Called upon to make his debut in the second match of the season when Hopwood sustained an injury.

Jack Wood - Date of birth: 16/04/1992 Long serving club captain, Jack initially joined the club on loan from Luton Town in March 2010, before making the move permanent the following summer. An outstanding and versatile talent, he most commonly lines up in central defence, but has played in a number of defensive and midfield positions when needed. Fourteen-time end of season award winner, Jack has won multiple Supporters' Player of the Year awards (2012/2014/2015/2016), as well as Manager's Player of the Year (2011/2012/2013/2014/2015), and Players' Player of the Year (2011/2013/2014/2016/2018).

Still in his mid-20s, he has now played over 400 times and scored 36 goals for the Ducks and continues to display incredible loyalty to the club despite several offers to ply his trade elsewhere.

A firm fan’s favourite he delighted the supporters by signing on again for what will be his ninth season at the club in June 2018.

Anthony Ball - 26/06/1999 Young defender joined the club in December 2018. Previous clubs include Berkhamsted, Aylesbury FC and Winslow United.

Jake Bewley - Date of birth: 03/07/1983 Ever reliable attack-minded left back who has barely missed a game since being recruited from United’s former landlords Leighton Town in summer 2014, after a four-year association with the Bedfordshire side, having previously played for both Dunstable Town and AFC Dunstable.

Jake's year-on-year improvement culminated in him being named Supporters' Player of the Year and Players' Player of the Year at the end of the 2016/17 campaign, and then Supporters'/Players' Player of the Year the following season. He has currently made over 180 appearances for the club.

Callum Mapley - Date of Birth: 30/09/1997 Callum signed from league rivals Beaconsfield Town in January just after Ben Williams took charge of the team. He quickly established himself as a first choice for the team, making an ideal partner for skipper Jack Wood at the centre of the defence. A firm tackling defender, he has great vision and is often the one to launch attacks with his pinpoint passing from defence.

Harry Jones - Date of Birth: 14/01/2000 Joined the club from Risborough Rangers for the start of the 2017 season, going on to make 45 appearances in his debut season. A versatile hard working player who can play on either side of midfield or further forward.

Max Hercules - Date of birth: 13/03/2000 Exciting 18-year old winger who joined the Ducks from Tring Athletic in June 2018 after making 60 appearances for the Hertfordshire side in two years since breaking into their first team. A big part of the Tring side who reached the FA Vase 5th Round in 2017/18.

Max is the son of all-time Aylesbury United record appearances/goalscorer Cliff Hercules.

Greg Williams Date of birth: 20/06/1977

Greg Williams - Date of birth: 20/06/1977 Midfield veteran who, having now entered his 40s, became only the second ever Aylesbury United player to pass the 400 appearances mark and is second only to Cliff Hercules in the all time club appearances list.

A workaholic, he always gives 100% and fights to the death for the team, and, at the age of 41 still has better fitness levels than many of his younger counterparts!

Known as 'The Leader' after captaining the club in his first spell many years ago, Greg joined the Ducks for a second stint on the eve of the 2012/13 season after three seasons with Aylesbury FC. His previous clubs include Thame, Oxford City and Banbury.

Aaron Berry - Date of Birth: 10/01 1995 Imposing centre forward whose presence in attack was just what the Ducks needed when he made the switch from Southern League counterparts Egham Town in February 2018. Boasting an impressive scoring record with the Sarnies and Beaconsfield SYCOB before that, Aaron netted 6 goals in 11 Aylesbury games to leave fans eagerly anticipating what might await in the 2018/19 season.

Sonny French - Date of birth: 28/01/1991 Talented midfielder now entering his third full season with the club having signed on registration deadline day in March 2015 from Aylesbury FC, where he was a former Player of the Season winner. Began his career with Hemel Hempstead Town before becoming an important part of the Aylesbury FC team, scoring just short of 40 goals in his four years with the club. A talented playmaker, he has made over 130 appearances for the club so far.

Chris Crook - Date of Birth: 25/05/1989 An experienced defender who signed at the start of the season for his second spell with the club. Previously made with the club for the 2015/16 season he became an influential member of the backline. His former clubs include Leighton Town, Ampthill Town, Crawley Green, AFC Dunstable, Bedford Town and Stevenage Borough Ben Seaton - Date of Birth: 22/06/98 Understated attacking midfielder who brought his fine technical abilities to the club in October 2017 having previously played for Tring Athletic, and ended the season winning the 'Most Improved Player' award. Previously with Tring Athletic, he proved a valuable addition to the squad with his ever-improving displays and, still at a young age, has bags of potential to develop further.

Ollie Hogg - Date of birth: 15/03/1996 Industrious midfielder and product of the Aylesbury FC ranks who made the switch to United in summer 2015 having spent much of the previous season with Tring Athletic. Made his competitive Aylesbury United debut in Nov 2015 and has gone from strength to strength since then, maturing into an excellent player, who is approaching 100 appearances for the club.

Harry Jones - Date of Birth: 14/01/2000 Joined the club from Risborough Rangers for the start of the 2017 season, going on to make 45 appearances in his debut season. A versatile hard working player who can play on either side of midfield or further forward.

Harry Tucker - DOB: 14/02/98 Versatile young defender signed from Kings Langley on Christmas Eve 2018. Can play Right back, centre back or in midfield. A graduate of the FAB academy, his previous clubs include Chesham, Beaconsfield and Uxbridge.

Aylesbury FC

Aylesbury Utd

Red & Black Nick BENNION (GK) Josh THOMPSON (GK) Ben STEVENS Craig CARBY Jordan JENKINS © Lewis MERRIDAN Samuel ODUSOGA Derek FEYI Haydon CLACK Paul FIELD Harry SCOTT Ryan YOUNG Elliott AMEDIEU Bruno BRITO Ty DEACON Brian HAULE Ken FEYI Jordan GILBERT Harry EDMONDS Archie CLARKE

Manager: Paul BONHAM

Yellow 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

Archie DAVIS (GK) Anthony BALL Jake BEWLEY Jack WOOD Callum MAPLEY Harry JONES Max HERCULES Greg WILLIAMS Aaron BERRY Sonny FRENCH Tre MITFORD Ben SEATON Chris CROOK Ollie HOGG Conor HEARN Collins TAKAITEI

Manager: Ben WILLIAMS

Match Officials Referee: Robert EVANS Assistants: Christian LEONTE & Joe WOOLMER