Aylesbury United v Wantage Town by Aylesbury United

Official Matchday Programme 2020-21  #3

Aylesbury United 30 September 2020  The Pitching In Southern League Division One Central  The Meadow, Chesham

versus

Wantage Town

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Welcome to The Meadow

ood evening and welcome to The Meadow for our first home league game of the season against Wantage Town. We wish their players, officials and supporters a warm welcome, and safe journey home this evening. Would it be unfair to suggest that if one set of supporters would have been pleased last season was curtailed early, it would have been tonightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opponents? Wantage endured a miserable campaign, picking up only four points all season, with a goal difference of -105. But the extended break has seen a group of new faces at Alfredian Park, and the team kicked-off this season in the best possible way, beating Welwyn Garden City 2-0. Last Saturday they lost at home to Bedworth

Aylesbury United FC 01296 487 367 www.aylesburyunitedfc.co.uk Chairman Graham Read Vice chairman Ken Turnbull General secretary Steve Baker Fixture secretary Ian Pluck Directors James Byrne, Brian Metcalfe,

Last weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s FA Cup tie against Moneyfields was full of action

United 3-1. They also continue to being in new signings, with a loan move for Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Tom Middlehurst last week. As for the Ducks, what can be said about the drama and heart ache experienced in the FA Cup a week ago? Losing a penalty shoot-out is always cruel, but to do so having had the opportunities to have won the game seems to make it even more so. Nevertheless, hopefully the team can take

Ian Pluck, Alan Sherwell, Warren Sheward Welfare officer James Byrne Safety officer Warren Sheward Ladies team chairman Andy Foster 21st Centruy Ducks chairman Zana Saunders Matchday hospitality Muriel Turnbull First team kit Ron Schmidt Web editor Luke Buckingham-Brown

their disappointment and convert it into a strong performance this evening. A small fixture update to be aware of. Our home game against Biggleswade, originally scheduled for Sunday 25 October, has now been switched to an away game to take place on Saturday 24 October. We will now be at home against Biggleswade on Saturday 27 March.

Stay safe and up the Ducks! Photographer Mike Snell Programme editor Paul Snell Legal name Aylesbury United Football Club Company number 05814026 Significant interests (shareholder/shareholding) Graham Read: 49% 21st Century Ducks: 39%

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Stadium safety and Covid-19 W

e’re delighted to have you return to The Meadow, but to ensure a safe experience for all, please observe the following Covid-19 protocols in place. 1. Turnstiles will be open for ground admittance from 1pm on a Saturday and 6.30pm on a weekday evening. 2. Upon arrival at The Meadow, all supporters will be subject to a temperature check by a Covid official. Any person with a temperature reading of higher than 37.8 degrees celsius will not be allowed to enter the ground. This will include anyone else who has travelled with the person displaying a high temperature. 3. Name and contact information will be collected at the turnstile to comply with government track and trace requirements. Season ticket holders will be able to supply ticket number. All other spectators will need to provide name and contact number. This information will be stored for a minimum of 21 days in line with Government Recreational Team Sport Framework and collected / processed in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation. 4. It is requested that supporters bring the correct money for entrance where possible.

7. Please follow all signs displayed when moving around the ground. 8. The Meadow End will only be accessible via the Ryan Moran Stand. 9. Please follow signs when using the toilets and food and beverage facilities. 10. Please do not return any balls to the playing area that enter spectator areas. 11. Exit gates will be available at both sides of the Cricket End of the ground. Hand sanitiser will be available at these exits. 12. Please ensure social distancing is maintained on exit. 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 a criminal offence under the Football Offences Act 1991. • NO glasses or bottles are permitted outside the clubhouse. • DO NOT throw any items onto the pitch.

5. Please us the hand sanitising stations, which are available at all turnstile entrances. 6. Please check signs at turnstiles, and join the correct socially distanced queue. A separate queue for season ticket holders and visiting officials may be available.

• DO NOT run onto the pitch or encroach on the playing area. • Aylesbury United reserves the right to remove or refuse entry to the ground.

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About Aylesbury United

ylesbury 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 of the FA Cup, eventually losing to Third Division side Watford. United turned semiprofessional in 1976 and joined the Southern League, a move which got the ball rolling on the club’s most

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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 more than 6000 packed into Buckingham Road to see the Ducks take on the Three Lions. Unfortunately United’s brush with the nonleague 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 led 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 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 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 the club’s Community Development Officer to manage the Ducks, and in his brief spell in charge he secured 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. First 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. Second the club made their first ever appearance in the FA Trophy semi-finals, where the Ducks were beaten by eventual winners Burscough. For various reasons the club then began to cycle through a string of managers at an average 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 pitch to a 3G artificial surface, what he described as his ‘last ditch’ idea for

DUCKS RECORDS Biggest win 17 April 1954 Delphian League 10-0 v Hornchurch and Upminster Heaviest defeats 19 October 1963 Athenian League Division 2 1-10 v Tilbury 7 March 1964 Athenian League Division 2 1-10 v Harlow Town Biggest home attendance 24 November 1951 FA Cup First Round 7,440 v Watford Biggest away attendance 14 November 1992 FA Cup First Round 12,337 v West Bromwich Albion Most appearances Cliff Hercules 669 (1984-2002) Most goals Cliff Hercules 301 aylesburyunitedfc.co.uk

About Aylesbury United 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 20 miles out of Aylesbury whilst the committee work hard keeping the club alive. The campaign to ‘Bring the Ducks Home’ has generated plenty of publicity, but so far, sadly, nothing concrete in terms of a new home for the club. 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

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squad with him. This led 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 moved on and former United defender Tony Joyce became 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 sixth in the league in 2010-11. Season 2011-12 saw further progression in the league with the Ducks eventually finishing fourth 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, gaining 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 Town, Chesham United 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 10 years, losing 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 six years at the club and was replaced by Glyn Creaser who had been coach under Tony. In Glynâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first full season in charge, he led the club to the semifinal of the Southern League Cup, before losing at Premier Division St Ives. He also guided the team to 13th position in the Central Division. After two seasons ground sharing at the ASM Stadium in Thame, a decision was made to return to The Meadow, the home of Chesham United for the 2017-18 season. After a disappointing start to the league campaign, manager Glyn Creaser was relieved of his

responsibilities following a 6-1 home defeat against Cambridge City in December 2017, with the team lying second 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 January. 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 nine of their last 13 matches. The 2019-20 season began in promising fashion, with the Ducks unbeaten in their first nine league games, and winning both FA Cup and FA Trophy ties. Despite a slight dip in form, the Ducks remained in the play-offs before the season was curtailed early and voided due to the global Covid-19 pandemic. But 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.

CLUB HONOURS Southern League Champions 1987-88 Southern League Midlands Division Runner up 1984-85 Southern League Division One South Runner up 1979-80 Isthmian League Runner up 1998-99 Delphian League Champions 1953-54 Spartan League Champions 1908-09 Runner up 1913-14, 1928-29 Spartan League Division One Champions 1938-39 Runner up 1934-35 Spartan League Western Section Champions 1945-46 Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division Runner up 2012-13 Athenian League Division Two Champions 1967-68 Isthmian League Cup Winners 1994-95 Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division Cup Winners 2012-13 Berks & Bucks Senior Cup 1913-14, 1985-86, 1996-97, 1999-00 Berks & Bucks Benevolent Cup 1932-33, 1933-34, 1952-53, 1953-54 FA Cup First round 1951-51, 1985-86, 1986-87, 1987-88, 1990-91, 1992-93, 2001-02 Second round 1988-89, 1989-90, 1991-92 Third round 1994-95 FA Trophy Quarter finals 1980-81 Semi-finals 2002-03

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Meet the Ducks JACK HOPWOOD sponsored by Ian Pluck

Goalkeeper who joined the club from Tring Athletic in February 2018. Well known to Ben Williams after graduating through Bucks Sports Academy, he played for Chesham United reserves, before making nearly 150 appearances for Tring.

JAMES WEATHERILL sponsored by Wendy Brandon

Former Aylesbury Vale Dynamos number one who signed for the Ducks in August 2020. Previously made more than 100 appearances for them, either side of a spell with Berkhamsted, and has also played for Amersham Town.

ANTHONY BALL sponsored by the Harveys

Young right back who joined the club in December 2018. A graduate of the Luton Town Cedars development programme, he has also featured for Aylesbury FC and Winslow United before joining Berkhamsted in the summer on his way to the Ducks.

JAKE BEWLEY sponsored by David Brown

Ever-reliable left back who has barely missed a game since being recruited from Leighton Town in summer 2014 after four years with the Bedfordshire side. He has also previously played for both Dunstable Town and AFC Dunstable.

JORDAN JENKINS sponsored by John Newman

Aylesbury-born central defender who joined in July 2019 after three years at Aylesbury FC, where he made more than 110 appearances. Hit the headlines in 2018-19 by winning the FA Sunday Cup with his Sunday league side Aylesbury Flooring FC.

LIAM McCROHAN sponsored by James Stappard

A new face at the club having joined in July 2020. Central defender Liam has previously played for Northwood and Hertford Town, and lined-up against the Ducks for both Leverstock Green and Berkhamsted before that.

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DAVE Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;CONNOR sponsored by Andrea Bone

Central defender with plenty of experience despite being only 24. Joined in July 2019 after four years with Tring Athletic where he made more than 140 appearances. Has previously played for Aylesbury FC, Chesham United reserves and Amersham Town.

KUDA SANGOYA sponsored by Alan Sherwell

Exciting full back who joined the club in August 2020 having impressed in pre-season. Previously on the books of Dunstable Town and Hale Leys United.

JACK WOOD sponsored by Rich Lloyd

Long serving club captain initially joined the club on loan from Luton Town in March 2010, before making the move permanent the following summer. Only in his late 20s, this season he is closing in on 500 appearances for the Ducks.

SONNY FRENCH sponsored by Erika Robinson

Talented midfielder signed for Aylesbury United on registration day in March 2015 from Aylesbury FC. Last season was his most prolific for the club so far, with 13 goals to his name before it was curtailed by the pandemic.

OLLIE HOGG sponsored by Darren Dixon-Smith

Industrious midfielder who has firmly established himself in the United engine room. Initially found his opportunities limited, but after spells back with Tring Athletic and then Leighton Town, he returned to make his competitive debut in November 2015.

HARRY JONES sponsored by Jim Rayner

Versatile player who has played more than 100 games for the Ducks since making his debut aged just 17. Started as a midfielder, but spent much of the 2019-20 season at right-back, and has also played as a centre forward when required.

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Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam Ahern, Roger Simmons, Bob Moody, Sean Haywood, Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam Ahern, Roger Simmons, Bob Moody, Sean Haywood, Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam Ahern, Roger Simmons, Bob Moody, Sean Haywood, Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam Ahern, Roger Simmons, Bob Moody, Sean Haywood, Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam Ahern, Roger Simmons, Bob Moody, Sean Haywood, Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam Ahern, Roger Simmons, Bob Moody, Sean Haywood, Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam Ahern, Roger Simmons, Bob Moody, Sean Haywood, Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam Ahern, Roger Simmons, Bob Moody, Sean Haywood, Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam Ahern, Roger Simmons, Bob Moody, Sean Haywood, Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam Ahern, Roger Simmons, Bob Moody, Sean Haywood, Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam Ahern, Roger Simmons, Bob Moody, Sean Haywood, Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam Ahern, Roger Simmons, Bob Moody, Sean Haywood, Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam Ahern, Roger Simmons, Bob Moody, Sean Haywood, Steve Cadwell, Daniel Cadwell, Dan Harvey, Graham Durban, Rob Hiscock, Steve Baker, Brian Metcalfe, Jim Rayner, Pete Chilcott, Richie Livings, Steve Woodage, Dave Brown, Liam

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LEWIS OSBORNE

Classy midfielder who rejoined the club in summer 2019 for a second spell after an impressive season with Langford, where he was top scorer. His first spell with the Ducks saw appearances limited by injuries, including a broken leg after just eight games.

MARK RIDDICK sponsored by Andy Martin

Central midfielder who joined the club in July 2019 after two seasons with Tring Athletic. Previously with London Colney and Chesham Unitedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reserve team before that.

JAMIE RUDD sponsored by Lee Cotton

New signing in summer 2019, Aylesbury-born Jamie joined the Ducks after three years working and playing in Dubai. Previously with Aylesbury FC during two spells at Haywood Way that came either side of a year on the South coast with AFC Totton.

BEN SEATON sponsored by Telnik Roofing

Understated attacking midfielder who brought technical ability to the club in October 2017 having previously played for Tring Athletic, and ended the season winning the Most Improved Player award.

LEE STOBBS sponsored by Paul Hopwood

Experienced and versatile player signed from Berkhamsted in July 2020. First came to prominence at Leverstock Green, he has also played for AFC Dunstable and Kings Langley, as well as a short spell with Aylesbury FC. Our first summer signing of 2020.

JUWON AKINTUNDE sponsored by the Seeley family

Striker who joined just before the 2019-20 season was curtailed. Started his career in college football in America before playing for East Grinstead Town, Harrow Borough and Chalfont St. Peter, from whom he moved to the Ducks.

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ROBBIE CARTER sponsored by Colin Brandon

Striker who joined the Ducks from Buckingham Athletic in August 2020, having scored 58 goals in 99 games for them over the past four seasons.

TY DEACON sponsored by Tony & Ian Lowe

Striker who joined the Ducks early in the 2019-20 season having previously turning out for United during the 2017 pre-season. Has plenty of Southern League experience with more than 100 appearances to his name, despite his youth.

MAX HERCULES sponsored by David Horne

Exciting young winger who joined the Ducks from Tring Athletic in June 2018, Max is the son of Ducks legend Cliff Hercules. After one season with United, he stepped up a level to join Kings Langley, before returning to the Ducks in January 2020.

BEN WILLIAMS, manager sponsored by G. Williams Builders

Appointed on a permanent basis in January 2018, Ben initially joined as assistant manager. Ben is a UEFA A licensed coach and manages The Bucks Sports Academiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 16-19s years football and education programme.

MIKE HOGG, assistant manager sponsored by Oliverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Plumbing

and Heating

Joined the club in 2015 to assist then-manager Glyn Creaser. Now forms part of the new management team under Ben Williams.

PAUL BATCHELOR, coach sponsored by the Turnbull family

Joined the club as coach in December 2017 when Ben Williams was appointed caretaker manager.

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Today’s opposition

antage Town (aka the Freds or Alfredians) have been affiliated to the Berks & Bucks FA since 1892. They played in the Swindon & District, North Berks and Reading & District Leagues, achieving success in 1903-04 in the Swindon Advertiser Cup, which they repeated in 1907-08 as well as becoming the league champions. After World War One, the Freds briefly played in the North Berks League, winning the North Berks Cup in 1920 and 1921 and the championship in 1921-22. After a brief period playing in the Reading & District League with no success, they re-entered the Swindon & District League, winning the title in 1933-34. The 50s was the most successful period for the club, winning the league in 1952-53 without losing a game, and again in 1955-56, while in 1954-55 the Freds won no fewer than five cup competitions, including the Berks & Bucks Intermediate Cup. Since joining the Hellenic

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League in 1956, the Freds have spent most of their seasons in the Premier Division, winning promotion from Division 1 on six occasions – as runners-up in 1969-70, 1987-88, 1991-92 (where they set a club record of 32 games unbeaten) and 1995-96 – and as champions in 1980-81 and 2003-4. Season 2003-04 was one of the Freds most successful. The first team won Division One East to regain its position in the Premier Division of the Hellenic, and the reserves finished top of their league also winning promotion. In 2010-11, the Freds won the Premier Division title, but despite great effort on the part of the club management, they were not promoted to the Southern League due to ground grading criteria not being achieved. In the 2012-2013 season, the club achieved the Southern League ground grading, but finished runners-up to a very strong Marlow side, and again missed out on promotion.

WANTAGE TOWN Founded 1892 Nickname The Alfredians (the Freds) Home Ground Alfredian Park, Wantage Colours Green and white shirts, green shorts, green socks Current league position 9th Manager Matt Biddle Previous meetings 4 January 2020 (home) W 2-0 (Hercules, K. Feyi) 20 August 2019 (away) W 2-0 (K. Feyi, French)

In 2013-2014, the Freds won the Uhlsport Hellenic Premier title again, and this time with the appropriate ground grading in place, saw promotion to Division One (South and West) of the Southern League. The Freds remained in the Southern League for three years, before relegation back to the Uhlsport Hellenic Premier League at the end of the 2016-17 season, at the same time the reserves were relegated to the second division of the Hellenic League.

formed, enabling five full sized pitches (including the adjacent school pitches) to be used by the growing number of teams supported by the club (the club supports teams, both boys and girls, from under-sevens upwards, and since 2016-2017 also a ladies team). The club has recently been granted planning permission for the installation of a 3G pitch, which shows the continued investment in the facilities.

In 2018-19, the Fredâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s won the Uhlsport Hellenic Premier title for the third time and regained their place in the Southern League, this time in the Division One Central section. Throughout the years the club has worked to upgrade the facilities at Alfredian Park. In the past 20 years the main pitch has been renewed and a training pitch has been established. Two new and additional pitches have been

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Meet the opposition Joe Gorman Returned this year after clocking a few miles last year with Westfields. Jumped at the opportunity to play locally and at a higher standard. A very strong, composed and consistent keeper that rarely makes a mistake. Tim Griffiths Naturally talented goalkeeper with previous Southern League experience. The oldest member of the squad at the age of 31. Has been known to kick a ball the length of a pitch even after sinking a pint or 10. James Webster Voted Players’ Player last season and has gone from strength to strength. Promoted from the club’s development team to an established first team player. With lots still to learn, the potential is endless for this kid. Daniel James Experienced Southern League defender who is now enjoying his second spell at the club. Has been unfortunate with

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injuries, when fit he is a solid centre back that any player will need to do well to get past. Prefers to be called DJ. Charley Tuttle Young, talented left back that has bags of potential and a sweet left foot. Local lad that has a football academy background at Oxford. A very committed and ambitious player that wants to push higher. Fancies himself on any set piece going. Olly Goddard Appointed club captain this season, bringing the qualities and characteristics every club would want in a leader. Yet to miss a training session or social event, he leads by example and sets himself high standards as well as expecting them from others. Harry Brock ‘Brocky’ brings experience and strength to the team. Known as Mr Consistent, never dropping below a seven out of 10 every game. Quiet when you first

met him, but more than happy to join in with the banter – especially after a few beers. Sam Hartley Sam is a soughtafter defender given his physicality, characteristics and huge potential. Still young, the possibilities are endless given more experience and his attitude to learn. This guy loves a tackle, and dreams of clean sheets every night. Ty Lee Chinese international defender. No-nonsense ball winner and a regular first team member this season. Never a quiet moment with Ty, you would do well to dodge a fine with this man around. Kai Mahon Very tricky, direct and talented winger who has previously featured for Slimbridge and Bishops Cleeve. Great ability and huge potential but also a willingness to learn that will only make him a better player. Excited to see this player work his magic.

Joey Broadbank Talented player who says he can play every position on the pitch. Reads the game well and very good with his feet. Mr Versatile is yet to find a position he doesn’t look comfortable in.

telephone box and be gone past you by the time you have had chance to blink. Blessed with quick feet and an eye for goal, the club is looking forward to seeing the damage he will cause to defences.

Jack Alexander A quality, experienced player who has a very impressive footballing background, especially for someone still at a young age. A local lad who lives a stone’s throw away from the ground, and is following in his Dad’s footsteps in the green and white.

Nate Robinson Exciting and talented winger that combines a quality delivery with a hat full of goals. Another who will be challenging for set pieces this season. Extremely reliable and can be sure that he will give everything he has got each game.

Charlie Kille Powerful, pacey and purposeful winger who would be in most full backs’ worst nightmares. You don’t want this direct player running at you for 90 minutes. Charlie is a player with a huge amount of potential that still hasn’t been unlocked.

Lewis Baldwin Joining us this season as a midfielder but also showing he has the ability to be a jack of all trades in multiple positions. Lewis is not afraid to ruffle a few feathers but also likes to get on the ball and play where possible. Has the makings of a surprise package this season.

Alex Stott This pocket rocket is a player you don’t want to underestimate. He can find space in a

Josh Tooke A new arrival from Kidlington. Very quiet lad but lets his football do the talking instead.

Never far away from first and second balls, where he hoovers up any loose balls and gets the team back in possession quickly. Very tidy on the ball and got a goal or two in him. Tom Ballard Gifted technician who has scored more than 30 goals from midfield in the past two seasons. Loves a 30-yard worldy, especially in a new pair of boots. Will be challenging for set pieces this season. Dec Shepperd Experienced, creative and influential midfielder who joined at the back end of last season. You would do well to get the ball off this guy, who can produce a moment of magic at any given time. Fittest man alive when attacking, but stamina disappears when defending. James Watts ‘Limbo’ is a naturally gifted and talented midfielder. A player that loves to get on the ball and drive the team

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forward with his mazy runs, as well as backing it up with a quality end product. Don’t be surprised if he is up there with a few assists this season. James Hammond ‘Hammo’ is a retail manager by day, but on the football pitch he is a magician. A very tidy player with clever feet that can get himself out of any hole. Very rarely does he lose possession and if you lose track of him for a split second he can be found in the opposition’s box without you even realising. Ryan Knight Brings with him a background littered with goals. Not only does he regularly appear on the score sheet, but is willing to do a lot of the dirty work to put the defence under pressure when without the ball. A dangerous combination of hard work and goals. Ash Bayliss A player with previous stints at Aldershot, Morecombe and Woking. Composed in

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front of goal and hard to put him off his stride when he is in the zone. Doesn’t mind a photo or two and happy to be in the press. Matt Biddle, manager 32-year-old with bags of enthusiasm, football knowledge and experience. Honours degree in Football Studies to his name. He plied his trade as a player at a semiprofessional level for several years, until His footballing career was cut short by three ACL injuries. That spurred his desire to stay in the game and take up management instead. Sean McKeon, assistant manager Boasts an impressive playing career, starting at Hartpury Academy where he was top scorer in the England College League. At Witney United he achieved an impressive 25 goals in 39 games. At Wantage Town, he scored more than 30 goals. James Keller, head coach

Started his football career at Wantage, enjoying three seasons with the club. Now 33 years-old and with 17 years of experience at the semi-professional level behind him, he felt this was a fantastic opportunity to hang up the boots and continue his love the game within the management arena. Sean McKeon Sr., physio ‘Senior’ has a wealth of experience and knowledge from involvement with a number of different clubs throughout his career. Not only does he have a dab hand in first aid and resolving injuries, but also brings with him a character and a humour that all dressing rooms want. Henry Wood, goalkeeper coach Woody is well known in the goalkeepers union. Full of enthusiasm, ideas and experience he has bolstered the coaching staff and is an asset to the club. You must be crazy to play as a goalkeeper, and even crazier to coach them.

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Ducks in action

Above: The Ducks had the better chances of a goalless first half against Moneyfields Below: Ollie Hoggâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s penalty made it three goals in three games

Above: Lee Stobbs scored his first competitive goal for the Ducks 24

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Below: There were plenty of appeals to the referee during the match

Above: This handball led to the Ducks first penalty in the second half Below: James Weatherill saved two penalties in the shoot-out

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Fixtures 2020-21 COMP

RES

ATT

12 Sep 20

DATE

15:00 H Long Crendon

TIME

FA CUP

3-0

197

19 Sep 20

15:00

LEAGUE

0-1

400

ð&#x;&#x;¥ Weatherill ð&#x;&#x;¨

22 Sep 20

19.45 H Moneyfields

FA CUP

2-2

112

Weatherill

30 Sep 20

19.45 H Wantage Town

LEAGUE

3 Oct 20

15:00 H Daventry Town

LEAGUE

6 Oct 20

15:00

Berkhamsted

LEAGUE

10 Oct 20

15:00

Coleshill Town

LEAGUE

17 Oct 20

15:00 H Tilbury

FA TRO

24 Oct 20

15:00 H Biggleswade

LEAGUE

28 Oct 20

19:45 H Bedford Town

LEAGUE

31 Oct 20

15:00

North Leigh

LEAGUE

4 Nov 20

19:45

Kidlington

LEAGUE

7 Nov 20

15:00 H AFC Dunstable

14 Nov 20 15:00

Corby Town

Bedworth United

LEAGUE LEAGUE

21 Nov 20 15:00 H St Neots Town

LEAGUE

28 Nov 20 15:00

LEAGUE

5 Dec 20

Welwyn Garden City

15:00 H Barton Rovers

12 Dec 20 15:00

VERSUS

Yaxley

LEAGUE LEAGUE

19 Dec 20 15:00 H Kempston Rovers

LEAGUE

26 Dec 20 15:00

LEAGUE

Thame United

2 Jan 21

15:00 H Didcot Town

LEAGUE

9 Jan 21

15:00

LEAGUE

16 Jan 21

15:00 H Halesowen Town

LEAGUE

23 Jan 21

15:00

LEAGUE

30 Jan 21

15:00 H North Leigh

LEAGUE

6 Feb 21

15:00

LEAGUE

13 Feb 21

15:00 H Kidlington

LEAGUE

20 Feb 21

15:00 H Welwyn Garden City

LEAGUE

27 Feb 20

15:00

LEAGUE

6 Mar 21

15:00 H Bedworth United

LEAGUE

13 Mar 21

15:00

LEAGUE

Wantage Town

Bedford Town

AFC Dunstable

St Neots Town

Barton Rovers

20 Mar 21 15:00 H Coleshill Town

LEAGUE

27 Mar 21 15:00

Biggleswade

LEAGUE

3 Apr 21

15:00

Halesowen Town

LEAGUE

5 Apr 21

15:00 H Thame United

LEAGUE

10 Apr 21

15:00

LEAGUE

17 Apr 21

15:00 H Corby Town

LEAGUE

24 Apr 21

15:00

LEAGUE

1 May 21

15:00 H Yaxley

LEAGUE

3 May 21

15:00

Didcot Town

LEAGUE

8 May 21

15:00 H Berkhamsted

LEAGUE

Daventry Town

Kempston Rovers

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Hopwood

Ball

Bewley

Jones Ball

2â&#x192;£

Bewley

ð&#x;&#x;¨

Bewley

â&#x161;½

Jenkins

Riddick

Wood

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

Riddick

Wood

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

Wood

â&#x161;½ ð&#x;&#x;¨

Riddick

Hercules Hercules Hercules

1â&#x192;£

â&#x161;½ Hogg â&#x161;½ Hogg â&#x161;½ Hogg

1â&#x192;£ Akintunde ð&#x;&#x;¨ 1â&#x192;£ Akintunde

Deacon

10 French

3â&#x192;£

French French

11 Stobbs

2â&#x192;£

Deacon Stobbs

â&#x161;½

3â&#x192;£ Stobbs 1â&#x192;£ Jones

Hopwood

14 Deacon

1â&#x192;£

Sangoya Akintunde

2â&#x192;£

Sangoya

Weatherill

2â&#x192;£

Rudd

Seaton

Jenkins

Sangoya

Seaton

Rudd

1â&#x192;£

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Recent results The Pitching In Southern League Division One Central Last updated: 29 September 2020

TEAM

PTS

Didcot Town

Halesowen Town

Bedworth United

Barton Rovers

Thame United

Biggleswade

Aylesbury United

Daventry Town

Wantage Town

Corby Town

St Neots Town

Berkhamsted

North Leigh

Yaxley

-6

Kidlington

-1

AFC Dunstable

-2

Coleshill Town

-2

Welwyn Garden City

-2

Kempston Rovers

-3

Bedford Town

-3

Recent results Saturday 26 September 2020 Didcot Town 2-1 Thame United Halesowen Town 1-1 Barton Rovers Wantage Town 1-3 Bedworth United Yaxley 2-2 St Neots Town

Monday 28 September 2020 Coleshill Town 0-1 Corby Town

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The Squads The Pitching In Southern League Division One Central Wednesday 30 September 2020 The Meadow, Chesham

Aylesbury United Manager: Ben WILLIAMS

Wantage Town Manager: Matt BIDDLE

1. James WEATHERILL 2. Anthony BALL 3. Jake BEWLEY 4. Jack WOOD 5. Dave Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;CONNOR 6. Mark RIDDICK 7. Max HERCULES 8. Ollie HOGG 9. Ty DEACON 10. Sonny FRENCH 11. Lee STOBBS

1. Tom MIDDLEHURST 2. Joey BROADBANK 3. Charles KILLE 4. James WEBSTER 5. Jack ALEXANDER 6. Declan SHEPPERD 7. Nate ROBINSON 8. James WATTS 9. Ryan KNIGHT 10. Alex STOTT 11. Kai MAHON

12. Juwon AKINTUNDE 14. Kuda SANGOYA 15. Jamie RUDD 16. Ben SEATON 17. Jack HOPWOOD

12. Harry BROCK 14. Marley HAMILTON 15. Joshua TOOKE 16. Samuel HARTLEY 17. Timothy GRIFFITHS

NEXT MATCH

MATCH OFFICIALS Referee Mr Stephen PARKINSON

Daventry Town (home) Saturday 3 October

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Assistant referees Mr Bogdan CARAGHIN Mr Stewart BEEKMAN

Since 1965