Aylesbury FC vs Dunstable Town - 16th Mar 2019

v Dunstable Town Saturday 16th March 2019 Evo-Stik South – Division One Central

Committee & Staff President

Bill Harrison

Interim Chairman

Mike Farquharson

Director of Football

Tony Masella

Club Secretary

Ian Brown

Treasurer

Rosanna Martone

Bar/Events Manager

Christine Martone

Groundsman

David Thorn

General Committee

Steve MacDonald

General Committee

Nobby Swain

Club Photographer

Phil Duffy

Match day Reporter

Dan Legg

Programme Editor

Mike Farquharson

Matchday Co-ordinator

Chris Thorn

Welfare Officer

Maxine Ingram

To ensure the safety of everybody, please observe the following: Do not use foul or abusive language, or obscene gestures.

Any form of racial abuse, or language used to incite or provoke others is an criminal offense under the ‘Football Offenses Act 1991’ No glasses or bottles are permitted outside the clubhouse. Do not throw any items onto the pitch.

Do not run onto the pitch or encroach on the playing area.

Aylesbury Football Club reserve the right to refuse entry to their ground.

AYLESBURY FC is a MEMBERS CLUB

Today’s Southern League Fixtures Saturday 16th March 2019 AFC Dunstable vs Aylesbury United Aylesbury FC vs Dunstable Town Barton Rovers vs Thame United Bedford Town vs Kempston Rovers Coleshill Town vs Cambridge City Corby Town vs North Leigh Didcot Town vs Peterborough Sports Kidlington vs Berkhamsted Welwyn Garden City vs Bromsgrove Sporting

Good afternoon and a warm welcome go to Gareth, the committee, players and all the travelling fans from Dunstable Town. We hope your short stay at the SRD Stadium will be a pleasant one.

Dunstable come into the fixture on the run of Three defeats but if you look closer at the fixtures and opposition you will see they have played some of the play off sides, prior to that they are one of the few teams recently in the league to beat two of the big hitters in Corby and Bromsgrove. Having had them watched lately I admire the philosophy built into this set of players and the style of play shows all the hard work the coaching staff at Dunstable are putting into this side.

Having a free weekend last week, I hope we haven’t lost vital momentum but the lads were fantastic this week in training are showing a hunger and desire I’ve not seen this season so far. We performed really well against Cambridge and deserved the 3 points and on reflection we were slightly disappointed not to beat Didcot even with 10 men, the work rate of the side and the intensity we are playing with is not a side who that is facing relegation but a team that is chasing play-off’s, now that hard bit is to be consistent with the performance and the results will continue to look after themselves.

Both Kidlington and North Leigh are pushing hard and bringing in players to strengthen their run in so we need to be at our very best and keep winning games to make sure we keep chasing the teams above us …. Starting today against Dunstable.

Thank you again for all your continued support and I hope we give you something to cheer about at the end of the 90 minutes. #Moles.

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.

Aylesbury Football Club prides itself on 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.

Jamie Keen

Previous Clubs: Kempston Rovers

Previous clubs: Aylesbury United

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.

Very talented youngster who joins us from Aylesbury United – Currently playing for FC’s Allied Counties side, he has been knocking on the door of the first team after some excellent performances. We are looking forward to seeing JK in a Moles shirt.

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

App

Total FC Apps

Sub On

Sub Off

Goals

Pens

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

34 33 29 30 28 22 22 20 20 17 18 15 15 15 14 13 12 14 11 10 10 8 9 7 6 5 4 4 4 4 5 6 4 3 5 2 2 4 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

34 33 29 53 108 53 22 20 105 17 18 15 15 24 14 13 12 221 187 10 10 8 26 47 6 5 4 4 4 4 480 6 4 3 5 2 2 34 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

15 0 1 2 0 4 2 6 0 5 3 3 1 0 2 0 10 3 1 0 0 0 7 0 0 1 0 1 3 4 0 2 0 1 1 0 1 4 1 0 1 2 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0

11 0 3 2 0 2 1 7 1 4 4 6 7 4 2 1 0 4 4 7 3 2 0 2 0 2 3 2 1 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0

7 0 1 0 1 0 1 2 7 1 0 1 1 5 0 3 1 2 0 2 2 0 0 1 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 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

Total Goals 2018/19 7 0 1 0 1 0 1 2 7 1 0 1 1 6 0 3 1 2 0 2 2 0 0 1 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

MOM 3 3 4 1 4 2 1 1 1 1 0 3 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 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 16th March 2019 – Home to Dunstable Town – League KO 3.00pm Sat 23rd March 2019 – Away to Kempston Rovers – League KO 3.00pm Sat 30th March 2019 – Home to Yaxley – League KO 3.00pm U18s – Allied Counties Side Thu 21st March 2019 – Home to Winslow – League KO 7.45pm 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

Didcot Town 1 Aylesbury FC 1 - Sat 9th Mar 2019 2019 – League It was a blustery afternoon as Didcot Town, currently 4th in the Division took on a new, resolute Aylesbury FC at Loop Meadow. Ben Stevens returned to the side that had beaten Cambridge City with Sam Odusoga dropping to the bench.

A decent crowd of 180 turned up to watch the game and were almost rewarded with an early goal as Hackett burst clear of the defence but his cutback just eluded Barcelos. Lewis Merriden and Bruno Brito then combined to set up Ty Deacon with the Moles first attempt but that was well blocked. Both teams were attacking early on, trying to make the breakthrough but some good defending saw chances limited in the early exchanges.21 minutes in Bruno Brito was booked for handball in the middle of the park and the resulting free kick, was nodded down by Carnell but Jordan Jenkins was on hand to clear his lines.

Then a most bizarre incident‌Brian Haule appeared to be fouled in a strong challenge but the referee waved play on. When the ball went out of play, the Linesman called the referee over and he promptly dismissed Brian Haule immediately. At this stage we can only assume for foul and abusive language. With 28 minutes on the clock, Aylesbury FC were facing an uphill task to get anything from the game now.

Didcot, now with a numerical advantage, tried to use both wings to create chances, however, they were met by Ben Stevens and Hayden Clack who were equal to everything that was thrown at them.

In fact, with 5 minutes of the first half remaining it was Aylesbury FC who looked stronger and Bruno Brito combined with Alfi Touceda and he in turn found the ever willing Ryan Young bursting down the right flank. His cross just evaded Ty Deacon as he rushed in. In the final seconds of the first half Alfie Touceda was booked for a late challenge. First half ended 0-0.

The second half started much as the first ended with Aylesbury again looking lively. Ryan Young was causing problems and Bruno Brito and Craig Carby were battling well to win the ball. 51 minutes and Didcot forced Nick Bennion into a fine save, low to his left from Barder. A few minutes later Haydon Clack played the ball out to Bruno Brito and his deft touch found Ty Deacon heading towards goal. He was fouled by Humphries about 20 yards from goal and a subsequent yellow card to the Didcot player. Bruno Brito placed the ball and then smashed a superb free kick into the bottom corner of the goal. Aylesbury FC were 1-0 and fully deserved.

With 70 minutes on the clock Didcot were starting to make the extra man count but Aylesbury FC were defending well. Humphries picked the ball up just in the Aylesbury half and surged forward unchallenged, he unleashed a shot from 35 yards which Nick Bennion tipped round the post. The resulting corner saw Carnell head the ball over the bar. 4 minutes later and a free kick from Humphries whistled just past the right hand post, Didcot were pressing and getting closer.

A couple of minutes later and the pressure finally told. A long throw was flicked on by Ballard, and Barcelos was on hand to beat Nick Bennion from close range. With Aylesbury FC now having played with 10 men for over 50 minutes the referee levelled things up as Humphries came steaming in and mistimed a challenge on Lewis Merriden in the middle. The remaining 15 minutes saw both teams go toe to toe with chances at both ends.

Didcot worked the ball wide and the resulting cross was cleared by Jordan Jenkins and the rebound was superbly blocked by Ben Stevens as AFC were under pressure. Then a great ball out by Haydon Clack found Sam Odusoga, on for Ryan Young, free on the right hand side, he skipped past a challenge and crossed in for Ty Deacon. He controlled and shot but it went wide of the mark.

Didcot Town 1 Aylesbury FC 1 - Sat 9th Mar 2019 2019 – League contd………….

The final roll of the dice by Paul Bonham was to put Ken Feyi on for the tiring Bruno Brito. In the 90th minute FC were looking far the stronger team and surged forward. First Ty Deacon had a shot well saved and the resulting corner landed with Alfi Touceda who hit his shot over the bar. Moments later, in injury time, Ty Deacon again was involved, this time he played Ken Feyi in and he sidestepped his marker and hit a lovely shot which was heading into the far corner, only for Bedwell to save with his fingertips.

Just as the crowd thought they had seen all the drama…another Red Card was shown. This time a second yellow for Didcot’s Ballard as he walked it made it 10v9 for the final 2 minutes. Didcot still managed one final shot as Hackett saw his shot well saved by Nick Bennion in the last seconds….what a match. Final score 1-1.

A great team performance as Aylesbury FC continue to move up the table. Paul Bonham’s boys showed great character when down to 10 men early on. The defence held strong with Ben Stevens and Haydon Clark impressive and Jordan Jenkins winning many duels in the heart of the defence.

Man of the Match today was Bruno Brito for a powerful display and a great workrate…and of course for a bullet free kick!

Team

P

HW HD

HL

HF

HA AW AD AL

AF AA

+/-

Pts

1

Peterborough Sports

28

12

2

1

46

7

10 1

2 36 14 61 69

2

Bromsgrove Sporting

30

14

1

0

58

11

7 4 4 34 26 55 68

3

Corby Town

30

12

0

3

45

19

7 5 3 43 26 43 62

4

Didcot Town

30

10

3

2

33 20 6 2 7 29 27 15 53

5

Bedford Town

29

9

2

3

27

13

6 0 9 33 27 20 47

6

Coleshill Town

30

6

4

5

23

19

7 4 4 26 23

7

Berkhamsted

29

6

3

6

21

16

7 4 3 27 22 10 46

8

Thame United

29

8

2

4

25

19

6 2 7 22 29 -1 46

9

Sutton Coldfield Town

30

5

6

4

27 26

7 3 5 21 14

10 AFC Dunstable

30

5

4

6

29 30

8

11 Barton Rovers

30

4

4

7

18

31

6 4 5 17 17 -13 38

12 Aylesbury United

30

6

1

8

25 30

5 3 7 26 36 -15 37

13 Cambridge City

30

5

4

6

29 25

4 4 7 18 23 -1 35

14 Welwyn Garden City

29

6

3

5

19

17

2 6 7 18 27 -7 33

15 Kempston Rovers

30

2

5

8

22

35

6 2 7 22 29 -20 31

16 Yaxley

30

7

0

8

35

41

2 4 9 20 39 -25 31

17 Dunstable Town

30

3

4

8

22

38

5 2 8 21 31 -26 30

18 Aylesbury FC

30

3

4

8

12

24

3 3 9 23 37 -26 25

19 Kidlington

30

3

3

9

17

33

4 1 10 17 39 -38 25

20 North Leigh

30

5

2

8

28

38

1 2 12 20 51 -41 22

7

8

47

45

1 6 19 24 -6 44

The great escape towards Southern Premier League safety was so nearly secured in the last week of April 2018. Ultimately the heroics of Tony McCool and Gareth Jackson’s unpaid players went down to the wire but events on and off the field concerning different opponents and rivals conspired, as in the traditions of the best Greek Tragedies, saw the relegation trap door open for Dunstable Town at 4 50 pm on Saturday 28th April away at Frome Town. Players sank to their knees as the emotion of the moment and the grim reality of the Club’s fate became unbearable for even the strongest of men.

The Club had gone throughout the season 2017-18 without a playing budget and without even being able to offer traveling expenses to players and staff. Every single person involved with the Club volunteered their services, time and expertise.

In May 2017, the Club stood on the verge of folding as the (former) Chairman & Board resigned their posts in the belief that they had taken the Club as far as they could, with appeals for greater public support on match days falling largely on deaf ears. With their resignation and uncertainty about the Club’s future management and playing staff quickly followed, save for Gedeon Okito and John Sonuga.

Numerically small, but as passionate as any die-hard football supporter, a group of the Club’s fans organised themselves and took over the reins in order to save the Club from going under. With only enthusiasm and a passion for the Club to guide them this disparate group of local government officials, an accountant, a former bank manager and an educational consultant got to grips with the momentous task of running a football club competing at Step 3 in the pyramid.

Tony McCool appointed Gareth Jackson from the Development Team to be his number two, and with support and advice from former Luton & QPR legend, Kevin Gallen, a squad of hungry and talented players were assembled from a group of 200 trialists.

How many of those 200 players were aware of the Club’s rich history that boasts the presence of both George Best & Jeff Astle in the ranks of former notable players is not known. Kerry Dixon in more recent times wore the blue and white shirt with pride, and in the last couple of years the Club nurtured the emerging talents of Luke Pennell before his move to Dagenham & Redbridge where he won his first England C cap in the spring.

Tony McCool left the Club in January 2019 having gained the proud reputation as being a young manager with a gift for helping young, talented players achieve their potential and encouraging his Team to play attacking football on the ground. Attractive on the eye and a pleasure to watch, the Team was ravaged by injuries and a goal keeping crisis which meant performances didn’t always get the results that were deserved.

Gareth stepped up to the task of taking over from Tony and began his managerial reign with a home win over Bromsgrove Sporting. Gareth has been a loyal servant of the Club and is being assisted in his duties by Development Team coaches, Colin Lauder and Valentino Qoku.

Last year despite the disappointment of relegation, the Club developed strong links with local schools, particularly Weatherfield Academy, our Community Partner School who kindly lend their minibus for our players to travel to away fixtures. The Club recently received recognition for it’s off field work through the FA Community Charter Standard Development Club award.

The Club’s move to becoming a members’ run club was rewarded by a doubling of the membership and a rise of over 20% in home attendances. In addition a huge amount of time went into uniting the three different sections of the Club under the DTFC umbrella which is at last bearing fruit and gives cause for optimism for those who love the Club like a member of their family.

This season the Club has linked up with Mind BLMK (Bedford, Luton, Milton Keynes) to help support the invaluable work Mind does in the mental health field. Members of Mind will receive free training sessions at the Club and discounted admission to home games. In addition we will arrange collections at selected home games and publish articles and highlight local Mind groups’ activities on our website and digital programme.

Nathan Harness (G/K). Tall and commanding keeper with a knack of pulling off incredible saves. Came through the ranks at Stevenage.

Connor Coulson (G/K) Made his debut in home victory against Bromsgrove Sporting producing a Man of the Match display. Great shot stopper. Bags of confidence and potential.

Ben Collins (Defence) Product of DTFC Development Team. Calm under pressure. Maturing into a cultured full back.

Gedeon Okito. (Defence) Former MK Dons Academy player. Endeared himself to all at Creasey Park with his incredible loyalty to the Club during the summer of 2017. Dependable, combative and strong.

Kieron Ogden (Defence) Product of DTFC Development Team. Fine header of the ball. Never shirks away from the tackle. Shot like a thunderbolt.

John Sonuga (Defence) John, along with Gedeon Okito, was one of only two players who stayed with the Club in the turbulent summer of 2017. Strong in every department with a great eye for the best ball out of defence.

Daniel Trif (Defence) Personification of courage. Made the step up from 2 levels below in the pyramid last season and never looked back. Those who witnessed his goal at Biggleswade last season understood everything you need to know about this gentle giant of a man.

George Naismith (Defence) Summer signing from Spartan League, Harpenden Town. Easy to see why the Club were quick to secure his services.

Joshua Bailey (Defence) Cultured Centre Half with a great touch and eye for a ball out of defence.

Hassan Sheikh (Midfield) Summer signing from Step 5, Sporting Bengal. Has all the attributes which Manager, Gareth Jackson seeks in his players. Unassuming off the field but opponents know he’s there on the field.

Erin Amu (Midfield) Another product from the DTFC Development Team. Gaining both confidence and experience under Tony McCool’s watchful eye. Still young and hungry to learn and succeed.

Saul Williams (Midfield) Deceptively quick with skills to match his speed and vision. Clever movement off the ball to open up the tightest of backlines.

Alex Taylor (Midfield) Energy oozes from every pore. Never backs out of a challenge or a tackle. Keeps the engine room running from midfield. Formerly on the books at Stevenage. His summer signing was a real boost for the Club after the disappointment of last season.

Marius Patru (Midfield) Affectionately known by all at Creasey Park as “Paddy”, Marius signed for the Club in the summer and has displayed consistently high performances in both training and friendly matches.

James Lauder (Midfield) Stepped up from the Development Team this year. Good distributor of the ball, firm in the tackle and scorer of goals from impossible positions and angles.

Rio Dasilva. (Midfield) Fast, energetic and skilful, always busy in midfield making things happen.

Delightful touch and never afraid to take his man on.

Joe Mead (Midfield) Another close season signing for this young midfielder who plays with a talent beyond his years. Formerly on the books at Luton Town.

Ethan Lamptey (Midfield) Great distribution, strong in the tackle, accurate shot and scorer of the first goal away at “that� game at Biggleswade in April 2018. Formerly on the books at Northampton Town.

Jonathan Osae (Midfield) Recent signing from MK Robins. Highly regarded young talent.

Lanre Ladipo. Combative midfielder who has come through the ranks at QPR. Popular among the DTFC family for his work ethic and positive outlook.

Charlie Black (Attack) Signed mid-season last year making the step up from two levels lower in the pyramid and has never looked back. Leaves defenders trailing in his wake. Equalising goal away at Dorchester last season from 35 yards out showed what this young man is all about.

Ehban Nancarrow-Martin. (Attack) Another product from the DTFC Development Team. Lightening pace. Skilful. Runs defenders ragged. One to watch.

Chris Wreh (Attack) Summer signing who has excelled in pre-season scoring better than a goal a game.

Will be a handful for defences all season.

Davide Pobbe (Attack) Recent acquisition from Berkhamsted Raiders, Experience also at Aylesbury & Kings Langley. Knows where the back of the net is.

Aylesbury FC

Dunstable Town

Red & Black

Blue

Nick BENNION (GK) Josh THOMPSON (GK) Ben STEVENS Craig CARBY Jordan JENKINS © Lewis MERRIDAN Samuel ODUSOGA Derek FEYI Haydon CLACK Paul FIELD Davis HAULE Jamie KEEN Ryan YOUNG Elliott AMEDIEU Bruno BRITO Ty DEACON Brian HAULE Ken FEYI Jordan GILBERT

Manager: Paul BONHAM

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

Nathan HARNESS (GK) Connor COULSON (GK) Ben COLLINS John SONUGA Gedeon OKITO Kieron OGDEN Daniel TRIF George NAISMITH Joshua BAILEY Erin AMU Saul WILLIAMS Alex TAYLOR Marius PATRU James LAUDER Rio DASILVA Ethan LAMPTEY Jonathan OSAE Lanre LADIPO Charlie BLACK Ehban NANCARROW-MARTIN Chris WREH Davide POBBE Manager: Gareth JACKSON

Match Officials Referee: Wayne CHALMERS Assistants: Stuart WADE & Cameron SMITH