Aylesbury United v Daventry Town by Aylesbury United

Official Matchday Programme 2020-21  #4

Aylesbury United 3 October 2020  The Pitching In Southern League Division One Central  The Meadow, Chesham

versus

Daventry Town

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Welcome to The Meadow

ood afternoon and welcome back to The Meadow for this league game against Daventry Town. Tonight’s opponents were one of the sides we didn’t have the chance to welcome here before the previous season was curtailed, so we offer an especially hearty welcome to the players, officials and supporters of the Purple Army, and wish them a safe journey home after the match. In the one game the sides did have against one at the beginning of last season, the Ducks ran out 4-1 winners. A quirk of the fixture list means today’s two sides are the only teams in the league who still have a 100% winning record so far – even after just two or three games. Daventry won their opening fixture against Kidlington 1-0, and then

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,

Jamie Rudd gave a match-winning performance against Wantage Town in mid-week

beat Kempston Rovers by the same scoreline on Tuesday evening. So, as they say in boxing, “someone’s 0 has got to go” here this afternoon. Wednesday night’s win against Wantage Town – with a man of the match performance from Jamie Rudd, who scored his first goals for the Ducks – was the perfect tonic after the penalty shootout disappointment we experienced in the FA Cup a week earlier. Hopefully the team can maintain the high

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

standards they have set so far this season. There are now two away games, first at Berkhamsted on Tuesday and then to Coleshill Town next Saturday, before we return to The Meadow for an FA Trophy tie against Tilbury on 17 October. We hope to see as many of you here as possible.

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

ince forming in 1886 Daventry Town has had a chequered history over its 132 years, from a devastating fire in 2005 which threatened the club’s existence to an incredible cup run which saw more than 700 fans travel to League 2 Chesterfield in 2014. Switching to the Northants Combination in 1987, under the guidance of manager Willie Barrett, the club began to flourish, with Barrett leading the club to successive championships in the Northants Combination First and Premier Divisions. In 1989-90 they secured promotion to the United Counties League Division One Leaving the ‘Hollow’ in the centre of the town in 1990 to its current home at Elderstubbs, the club suffered a devastating blow in 2005–06 when the clubhouse and changing rooms were destroyed by an arson attack. Iain Humphrey took the helm and work began to revitalise the club with the introduction of new floodlights, walkways

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and other infrastructure to support the clubs promotion ambitions. 2007–08 was a very successful season. They won UCL Division One, losing just once, and defeated three Premier Division teams en route to the League Knockout Cup final, where they lost to Desborough Town 3-2. In 2009–10, Daventry won promotion to the Southern League Division One Central, becoming champions of the United Counties League under the guidance of manager Ady Fuller. Daventry Town reached the last 16 of the FA Vase, the final of the NFA Senior Cup, and the semi-finals of the UCL KO cup before captain Paul Saunders lifted the UCL championship to secure a coveted place in the Southern League for 201011. Under the guidance of Fuller and assistant Paul Lamb, their first season in the Southern League almost ended with another promotion, but they lost in the play-off final to Hitchin Town. Former Aston Villa, Charlton and Republic

DAVENTRY TOWN Founded 1886 Nickname Purple Army Home Ground Communications Park, Daventry Colours Purple shirts, purple shorts, purple socks Current league position 4th Manager Arron Parkinson Previous meetings 31 August 2019 (away) W 4-1 (K. Feyi, French, Hogg, Ibie) 24 January 2015 (away) W 3-1 (Field, Williams, Bewley)

of Ireland international Mark Kinsella became manager in summer 2011, but his seasonlong spell was unsuccessful and former Daventry United/Ford Sports manager Darran Foster was appointed. Daventry made history in 2013-14 by reaching the First Round of the FA Cup, a visit to Chesterfield’s Proact Stadium their reward. They were beaten by 2-0 in front of more than 700 travelling supporters and a crowd of over 5,269. Town also reached the first round proper of the FA Trophy losing 1-0 to Maidenhead United. Town reached the final of the Northamptonshire Senior Cup - Hillier Cup beating Cogenhoe United 3-0. Town had been season-long favourites for promotion from the Southern League Division One Central in 2013-14 but the fixture backlog caused by the cup runs had an effect. They lost the play-off semi-final to Kettering Town, narrowly beaten 1-0.

Darran Foster resigned as manager on 30 October 2014 following budget cuts and was replaced by former Watford, Oldham and Preston star Allan Smart. Former manager Ady Fuller was appointed as assistant manager with the bulk of the players supplied by Smart’s London academy. In the Summer of 2015, the club were moved to the Northern Premier League Division One South and with Smart and the players based in the South, he resigned in July 2015. Foster returned as manager just nine months after resigning, but he also resigned on Easter Saturday after a 5-0 home defeat to Kidsgrove Athletic. Goalkeeping coach Derren Midson and the club’s juniors development officer Pete Flockhart stepped in as caretaker managers, with Brian Porter returning as club secretary to ensure the club completed their remaining six fixtures. In a move to reset the club’s financial problems, Town took

voluntary relegation to step six football and the club returned to the United Counties League Division 1. In April 2016, Steve Tubb took over as Chairman. On 12 May 2016, the club appointed Arron Parkinson and Andy Marks as joint managers. With zero budget for the season, the management worked wonders to turn the club around and win the UCL Division 1 title, unbeaten at home. Ian King joined Parkinson as joint manager in May 2017. Town finished the 2017-18 season in 10th position, winning the Buckingham Charity Cup for the first time in their history. 2018-19 saw King leave to join Northampton Town Academy. Parkinson took over as manager with goalkeeper Matt Finlay as his assistant and Pete Harris coming in as a coach. After an excellent start to the league and two FA Cup wins, scoring 16 goals, Arron Parkinson was awarded the UCL manager of the month for August 2018.

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Meet the opposition James Martin Joined the club in December 2019 and quickly made himself number one. A vocal presence at the back, Martin is very good at organising his defence and is a very capable shot stopper. He has a huge kick and is capable of turning defence into attack very quickly. Previous clubs: Kempston Rovers, Loughborough, Bedworth, Belper, Long Buckby AFC

defence and wearing the captain’s armband. Experience and composure are two of his biggest assets and when Ross bites into the tackle, it’s with power and timing. It’s easy to understand why he is a hit with the fans. Ross has completed more than 100 appearances for Town and is another who has risen with us from step six. Previous clubs: Cogenhoe United, Woodford United

Iustin Cerga Made his debut in 2013 and would have made many more appearances if work commitments had not got in the way. Last season’s joint Supporter’s Player of the Season. He produced several excellent saves in the double winning season, none more so than the memorable double save he made at Desborough Town. Previous clubs: FC Dacia of the Moldovan First Division

Dean Lukeman More than 80 appearances for Daventry Town after four seasons with Cogenhoe United. A tenacious full back who loves to get forward and never shirks a challenge. Came back well after a long term knee injury. One of a number of players who joined when the Town dropped to step six. Another who would have a made more than 100 appearances if not for injuries. Previous Clubs: Northampton Sileby Rangers, Cogenhoe United

Ross Harris What a player in the heart of the Town

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Dan Childs Content anywhere across the back four or in the middle of the park. Now nearing 150 appearances since his debut as a 17-year-old in 2012. Gives his all physically and sounds out his passion on the pitch. The boy bleeds purple such is his commitment to the club. When not wearing the purple shirt, he jets off the watch his beloved Sunderland. Previous clubs: Long Buckby, Woodford United Aiden Print Joined Daventry in October. Quick and comfortable on the ball, he has become a favourite of the fans with his attacking play. Has a trick or two to watch out for. Scored his first goal for the club in dramatic style curling in a 25-yard effort against Dunstable. In a foot race he is probably the quickest player in the side. Previous clubs: Nuneaton Borough, Rugby Town, Rugby Borough

Jeff Woodward A recent signing for the club. A tall and commanding centre half who has started his Daventry career with distinction. One to watch grow in stature through the season. Previous clubs: St Ives Town, Biggleswade Town, Bedford Town, Leamington

and now has well over 300 appearances to his credit. He reads the game so well and often averts danger before it occurs. A true box-to-box player who every team commented on after last season’s matches. Played for Town in the 2013 FA Cup run which ended with a First Round defeat at Chesterfield. ‘Congy’ is also involved as a coach with the juniors. Previous clubs: Woodford United, AFC Rushden & Diamonds, Banbury United

very good on the ball. While not lightning quick, he is fast enough to give a defender a problem and has the skill to pull of a trick if needed. Previous clubs: Long Buckby

Kurt Parsons Another recent signing to the club joining from Leamington Hibernian in the summer of 2020. Kurt is another solid central defender who has started strongly for Daventry. Previous Clubs: Leamington Hibernian

Joe Coleman Another new signing who brings experience to the team in the middle of the park. A good player on the ball and tenacious into the tackle, Joe will play a big part this season. He has a massive engine and doesn’t stop running in midfield. Previous clubs: Kidlington, Banbury United, Hook Norton, Easington Sports

Joel Nketia A tough midfielder who loves to go in for a tackle. Capable of breaking up play, and another with a big engine in the middle of the park. Newly signed to the club and will look to make an impression with the Town. Previous clubs: Hemel Hempstead, Harpenden

Adam Confue A fan favourite in the middle of the park

George Ball A young lad who plays out on the wing and is

Bleu McNeil Fought back from long term injury to regain his place in the team. A solid defender. Watch out for his long throw – a throw from 30 yards out is just as good as having a corner. Previous clubs: Kettering Town

Joe Massaro On loan from Kettering Town and has just joined the club. A tall, ball playing midfielder with a classy touch who will look to create chances going forward. Previous clubs: Kettering Town

Ben Stokes A new signing this season. First, he doesn’t play cricket. Looks like a good addition to the squad. Impressed in pre-

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season with a couple of goals and has a decent shot on him. Previous Clubs: Redditch United, St Neots Town, Alvechurch Emmanuel Gbejuade ‘Manny’ joined the club this summer and has been effective coming off the bench. A classy hat-trick in pre-season bodes well for the upcoming season. Previous Clubs: Wolverton Town Luke Emery Top scorer during the double-winning season, netting 31 goals and being the UCL Premier’s top goalscorer. One of two players brought in whose goals changed a mid-table team into the UCL double-winning side. Previous clubs: Cogenhoe United, Newport Pagnell Town, Biggleswade Town. Jack Bowen Joined in October 2019 from Rushden and Diamonds. He is a capable striker playing on his own up front or in a pair. Very good in

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the air, you will see him dominate defenders aerially. Typical number nine in the fact that he is very demanding and will always claim the final touch. Previous clubs: AFC Rushden and Diamonds, Biggleswade Town, Brackley Town, Cogenhoe United. Kieran Fitzgerald Now in his third stint with the Town, returning to the club in September after a few weeks with Rugby Town. Fitzy scored 17 goals in 44 appearances during the Town’s championship season. He is one of five players who’ve made more than 100 appearances for the club. After a strong start to 2020-21 Pre-season Kieran unfortunately suffered a long-term injury and is unlikely to be seen this season. Previous clubs: Northampton Town trainee, Brackley Town, St Ives Town, Cogenhoe United, Wellingborough Town, Rugby Town. Taylor Orosz A pacy player who

carries the ball forward as if it’s stuck to his boot. Made 40 appearances and scored 26 goals during the doublewinning season. One of two players brought in the UCL promotion season whose goals changed a mid-table team into the UCL double-winning side. Previous clubs: AFC Rushden & Diamonds, Newport Pagnell Town, Wellingborough Whitworth, Kempston Rovers, Cogenhoe United, Kettering Town Adam Creaney If you can play the game at the pace you want then you’re a talent, and Adam does just that. He has a great appreciation of time, space and where players are around him. The ‘ginger Pele’ is an exceptional forward who scored 23 goals last year, including 15 from the spot. Free kick specialist. More than 120 games for the Town. Previous clubs: Racing Club Warwick, Daventry United, Woodford United

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Ducks in action

Above: Jamie Ruddâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cross loops into the net for the opening goal against Wantage Town Below: The conditions were hardly conducive to free-flowing football

Above: Rudd scored two, and assisted the third goal, for the total performance 24

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Below: Juwon Akintunde added the third goal during the second half

Above: Anthony Ball moved into midfield when Ollie Hogg was forced off by injury Below: Sonny French scored in additional time to cap his 200th outing for the Ducks

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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

4-2

107

Weatherill

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;£

Ball

Bewley

ð&#x;&#x;¨

Wood

â&#x161;½

Wood

Jenkins

Riddick

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

Riddick

â&#x161;½ ð&#x;&#x;¨

Bewley

Wood

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

Riddick

Bewley

Wood

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

Riddick

7 Hercules Hercules

1â&#x192;£ Rudd â&#x161;½ â&#x161;½ 3â&#x192;£ Hercules

â&#x161;½ Hogg â&#x161;½ Hogg â&#x161;½ Hogg 1â&#x192;£ Hogg

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

Deacon Akintunde

â&#x161;½ 2â&#x192;£

10 French

3â&#x192;£

French French French

â&#x161;½

11 Stobbs

2â&#x192;£

Deacon Stobbs

â&#x161;½

Deacon

3â&#x192;£ Stobbs 1â&#x192;£ Jones

Hopwood Stobbs

2â&#x192;£

14 Deacon

1â&#x192;£

Sangoya

2â&#x192;£ Hercules 3â&#x192;£

Akintunde

Sangoya

Weatherill

2â&#x192;£

Rudd

Seaton

Jenkins

Sangoya

Seaton

Rudd

McCrohan

Jones

1â&#x192;£

Hopwood

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Recent results The Pitching In Southern League Division One Central Last updated: 1 October 2020

TEAM

PTS

Bedworth United

Didcot Town

Aylesbury United

Daventry Town

Halesowen Town

Thame United

Barton Rovers

Welwyn Garden City

Corby Town

Biggleswade

-1

AFC Dunstable

-1

Wantage Town

-2

St Neots Town

Berkhamsted

North Leigh

Kidlington

-1

Bedford Town

-3

Yaxley

-6

Coleshill Town

-2

Kempston Rovers

-4

Recent results Tuesday 29 September 2020 AFC Dunstable 1-0 Didcot Town Bedford Town 1-1 Berkhamsted Bedworth United 4-3 Barton Rovers Kempston Rovers 0-1 Daventry Town North Leigh 0-0 Thame United Welwyn Garden City 3-0 Biggleswade

Wednesday 30 September 2020 Aylesbury United 4-2 Wantage Town Kidlington 1-1 Halesowen Town

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The Squads The Picthing In Southern League Division One Central Saturday 3 October 2020 The Meadow, Chesham

Aylesbury United Manager: Ben WILLIAMS

Daventry Town

Manager: Arron PARKINSON

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

1. James MARTIN 2. Aiden PRINT 3. Bleu McNEIL 4. Jeff WOODWARD 5. Kurt PARSONS 6. Adam CONFUE 7. George BALL 8. Joe COLEMAN 9. Luke EMERY 10. Adam CREANEY 11. Jack BOWEN

12. Harry JONES 14. Liam McCROHAN 15. Lee STOBBS 16. Max HERCULES 17. Jack HOPWOOD

12. Ross HARRIS 14. Dan CHILDS 15. Dean LUKEMAN 16. Ben STOKES 17. Archie ELMORE

NEXT MATCH

MATCH OFFICIALS Referee Mr Mark STEVENS

Berkhamsted (away) Tuesday 6 October

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Assistant referees Mr Thomas HOOD Mr Jack SCOTT

Since 1965