Aylesbury United v Tilbury by Aylesbury United

Official Matchday Programme 2020-21  #5

Aylesbury United 17 October 2020  The Buildbase FA Trophy Second Round Qualifying  The Meadow, Chesham

versus

Tilbury

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Welcome to The Meadow

ood afternoon and welcome back to The Meadow for this Buildbase FA Trophy tie against Tilbury. We offer a warm welcome to the Dockers who have made the trip from Essex, and we wish the players, officials and supporters a safe journey home this evening. Meetings between these two sides are rare. The last came in the 201718 FA Cup, where the Ducks ran out 1-0 winners in the First Qualifying Round thanks to a goal from Tyriq Hunte. Before then you have to go back to 1970 for the previous meeting. The Dockers do play an unwanted part in the Ducks’ history though, handing us a 10-1 defeat in 1963-64 – the equal worst defeat in the club’s history. Hopefully we won’t see something similar today.

A goal from Tyriq Hunte settled the game when these two sides last met in 2017

Coincidentally, both sides come into today’s tie as leaders of their respective leagues. The Ducks’ 4-1 victory over Coleshill sent them top of the division last Saturday, with midweek results having no impact on the standings. And although Tilbury drew 3-3 against Great Wakering Rovers on Tuesday night, they remain top of the tree in the Isthmian League North, with three wins, a draw and a loss.

this afternoon, the game will go to a penalty shoot-out. Although having suffered through one of those already this season in the FA Cup, it’d be appreciated if that could be avoided today!

Stay safe and up the Ducks!

If level after normal time

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,

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

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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The Ducklings Trust

e’re delighted to confirm that The Ducklings Trust will be the club’s charity partner this season, after last year’s partnership was rudely interrupted by the curtailment of the season. For more than 25 years, The Ducklings Trust has raised and collected money to purchase items to improve the surroundings and add to the care provided to users of Stoke Mandeville Maternity Unit and Wycombe Birth Centre – from birthing pools to birth couches, armchairs to midwife study aids, resuscitation dolls to vases for flowers.

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The charity are currently trying to fund a new birthing pool at Stoke Mandeville, and it is hoped our partnership will help in this quest. This morning, a flock of 14 supporters will be walking – some will even be running – the 14.5 miles across the countryside from our old home Buckingham Road in Aylesbury to The Meadow, in a sponsored walk organised by supporters’ trust 21st Century Ducks to raise money for the charity and mark 14 years of the first team playing its home games outside Aylesbury.

All the money raised will be donated to The Ducklings Trust. To donate to this wonderful cause, please use the link below – and thank you in advance. platform. nationalfundingscheme. org/DUCKWALK

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 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

ilbury now have concrete proof that they were formed in 1889, and competed in the Gravesend League from 1889-90. With the docks the only employer of any size in the area, all the club’s players and officials were dockers, hence the nickname. The club’s aim was to gain success at junior level via the Essex Junior Cup, and eventually bring senior-level football to the town. Tilbury soon made a name at junior level, with successive league championships, and an appearance in the final of the Junior Cup in 190304. It was another five years before they reached the final again, but in 1908-09 they carried off the trophy by defeating Saffron Walden Town. But at this stage, support for the club was poor. Only a couple of miles down the road, Grays Athletic were now playing in the senior ranks, and Grays Thurrock United were playing professionally in the Southern League. Most local fans were going to these clubs, and finances for Tilbury were very tight.

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At the end of the 1910-11 season, the club also lost its home ground, and the committee decided that the club should take a break from playing while it sought a new home. The intended short break stretched to three seasons, and was then further extended by the outbreak of the First World War. As a result, it was not until 1919-20 that Tilbury were able to resume, this time in the South Essex League. They became champions of that league in 192122, and were again a force in the county junior ranks. The big push for advancement into senior ranks came in 1924-25. The title was captured again, and so was the Essex Junior Cup. As a result, in the following season, Tilbury were invited to enter the Essex Senior Cup, which they accepted, as they realised that some good results would really aid their cause. In 1927, Tilbury were granted senior status by the Essex FA. Disaster almost struck however. Applications were made

TILBURY Founded 1889 Nickname The Dockers Home Ground Chadfields, Tilbury Colours Black and white striped shirts, black shorts, black socks Current league position First, The Pitching In Isthmian League North Manager Marc Harrison Previous meetings 2 November 2017 (away) W 1-0 (Hunte) 24 October 1970 (away) L 1-3

to several leagues but, one by one, they were all rejected, and it looked as though Tilbury were doomed. At the very last moment, the Kent League stepped in and offered them a place. With Tilbury one of only five amateur clubs in a professional competition, it was no surprise they found it tough going on the field. It was an off-field matter, though, that led to them leaving the competition. The league had expanded in size greatly since Tilbury joined, and added to the difficulty of continually crossing the Thames was the end-of-season fixture congestion. This meant many midweek matches and, with no floodlights in those days, games had to kick off at 4.30pm, and Tilbury nearly always had to field weakened teams due to playersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; work commitments. At the end of the 1930-31 season, the Committee very reluctantly took the decision that the club would have to move on. They made an application to join the

London League, and this time were accepted. Tilbury stayed in the London League until 1939, when the outbreak of the Second World War led to the disbandment of most Senior Leagues. During that spell, they were twice fourth in the table, and once reached the League Cup Final, but were mostly to be found in the bottom half of the table. In September 1939, all football was forced to return to a more local basis, due to travel restrictions and fuel rationing. Along with nine other local clubs, Tilbury formed the Wartime South Essex Combination. They completed the 1939-40 season in this league, but at the end of that campaign were forced to disband for the duration, when their ground was commandeered by the Army as a site for the anti-aircraft guns brought in to protect the docks. Tilbury resumed in the London League in 1946-47, and then on a new home ground, the

present Chadfields in 1947-48, and embarked upon a four season spell of much success and national recognition. The proudest moment came in the FA Cup. In 1949-50, Tilbury fought their way through to the First Round Proper, eventually going down 4-0 away to a Notts County side led by England centre forward Tommy Lawton. In the previous round replay, at home to Gorleston, a crowd of 5,500 had packed into St. Chadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road, which is still the official ground record. The proceeds from this Cup run were used to buy the freehold to the 13 acre site that the ground stands on. In 1950-51 Tilbury moved into the Corinthian League. Apart from one League Cup final, this was a barren seven year spell, and at the end of that time they returned to the London League. The move into the Corinthian ranks had coincided with the gradual break-up of the successful but ageing post-war side. The move

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back to the London League now coincided with the coming together of an extremely talented bunch of local young players that brought great success in the coming seasons. In 1957-58, Tilbury finished third in the London League, but in each of the next four campaigns were the undisputed champions. On three occasions they also captured the League Cup. Also, in 1960-61, the Essex Senior Cup was won for the first time, when Walthamstow Avenue were beaten 4-1 (aet) . 1962-63 saw Tilbury move into the Delphian League. This was to be the Winter of the “Big Freeze”, which disrupted all sport throughout the country for almost three months. This was to coincide with that League’s last ever season. In 1963-64, that League joined the expanded Athenian League set up, becoming the bottom division of a three division set up. Tilbury were inaugural champions of Division

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Two, also winning the Essex Senior Cup again. Five seasons later, they completed the climb to the Premier Division, by winning the Division One championship. Five seasons were spent in the Athenian Premier Division before, in 1973-74, they joined the newly formed Isthmian League Division Two. In 1974-75, they became the first ever winners of the Isthmian League Cup, and 12 months later were the Division One champions. Fifth place in their first Premier Division season was the best Tilbury could achieve in their five season stay, before being relegated back to Division One. During that spell, in 197778, Tilbury enjoyed a remarkable run in the FA Cup, as they started in the Preliminary Round and fought their way right through to the Third Round Proper, before going down 4-0 away to Stoke City. The storm clouds were already forming though, and just two seasons later relegation followed,

amid a financial crisis so severe the club almost died. Since then, Tilbury have found things tough. They have suffered relegation on several occasions and have bounced back fairly quickly, but the successes of previous years have never been re-captured. In 2004-05, Tilbury finished their one season in the Southern League Division One East rock bottom, and were relegated to the Essex Senior League. They bounced back immediately, and have managed to remain there since. In 2008-09 Tilbury won the Isthmian League Cup and the East Anglian Cup – their first trophies in 30 years. 2010-11, with a new manager in Paul Vaughan, and a tieup with South Essex College Academy, saw the club hoping to build for the future. With an inexperienced squad, the first half of the campaign was a real struggle, and by Christmas Tilbury were in real danger of relegation. But as

he gained experience, Vaughan rebuilt and reinforced his squad, and the second half of the campaign saw a run of results that steered the club to safety well before the end of the season. 2011-12 saw Tilbury greatly exceed their expectations, as Vaughanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s squad clinched a play-off place with a game to spare. Sadly though, it ended in an extra time defeat against Needham Market. Unfortunately, this level could not be maintained over the next few seasons, as Tilbury continually lost their better players to higher level clubs, and Vaughan was continually having to rebuild his squad. In October 2014, Vaughan stepped down as manager, and the club appointed player Gary Henty as the new boss, with former Tilbury player Danny Smith as his assistant and another ex-Docker George Young as coach. Tilbury finished that season in a comfortable lower mid-table position, but showed great

improvement in 201516, at one time being as high as fifth, on the back of a long unbeaten run. This included good runs in both the Essex Senior Cup and FA Trophy, defeating three National League sides. But as the season entered its final few weeks, player suspensions took their toll leading to a fall down the table to 11th. That pattern was repeated in 2016-17. The first half of the season saw Tilbury in or just below the play-off places, but in the second half of the campaign a dramatic loss of form of just three wins from 22 games saw them plummet to 17th. The season was rescued in the final month, in which Tilbury went unbeaten, winning three and drawing two of the final five League matches, climbing back up to a respectable 12th. On the cup front, Tilbury had a fine run through to the Semi-Final of the Essex Senior Cup. Unfortunately, Tilbury suffered a terrible run of results in October of

2017. A heavy defeat in the FA Trophy brought about the resignations of Henty, Smith and Young. Again, the club turned to a former player to take over. Joe Keith returned to the club and guided the club to a safe final position. However, this run could not be maintained, and in October of the next season, with the club lying second from bottom, the management team was changed again. Marc Harrison, a former under-16 side Manager at Tilbury, had enjoyed a very successful spell with Basildon United, and returned to Chadfields. Making several new signings, he immediately brought about a big improvement, and took the club to seventh place, before a final day defeat away to the Division Champions sent them back to 10th. 2019-20 saw Harrison take Tilbury into the play-off positions, but their hopes were dashed when, in March the League was declared void due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

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Meet the opposition Lewis Smith Midfielder. 30 years old. Rejoined the club for the second time from East Thurrock United in 2019. Leading scorer for the club during the 2018-19 season. Has now returned from a nasty injury. Marlon Agyakwa Midfielder. 25 years old. Joined the club from local rivals Canvey Island. A lightning quick winger who likes to attack. Previous clubs include Southend United, Oxford City and Didcot Town. Charlie Kendall Midfielder. 24 years old. Joined the Dockers in July 2019 from playoff winners Heybridge Swifts. Has previously played in a successful Basildon United side. Hard working player. Ola Ogunwamide Midfielder. 21 years old. Signed last season from Barking. A target of Dockersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; manager Marc Harrison for a number of months. Has also played in the Essex Senior League with Woodford

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Town. Has popped up with some important goals and exciting going forward. Lee Noble Midfielder. 32 years old. Signed in September 2020 after 12 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; service at National league side Dartford and played nearly 500 times. Has won the Isthmian League Division One (North) and Premier Division, plus two Kent Senior Cup medals. Lee Burns Defender. 38 years old. Joined from East Thurrock United in November 2019. Vastly experienced defender who has played more than 750 games at the higher end of nonleague. Club captain. Oli Spooner Midfield. 19 years old. Returned to Chadfields after representing Tilbury under-16s. Two seasons ago represented England C in the Falklands. A former Basildon United and Basildon Town player. Passed 50 games for the club.

Johnny Coyte Defender. 17 years old. A product of the under18s and has had an impressive pre season. Ayub Kadiri Midfield. 19 years old. Joined the Dockers from Hackney Wick in February 2020. Exciting prospect. Tommy Barton Midfield. 31 years old. Joined from Basildon United in 2018 where he was captain. The previous two seasons, he was part of promotions to the Essex Senior League and Isthmian North. Ryan Mallett Defender/midfielder. 22 years old. Joined from Barking In October 2019. Almost everpresent for Brentwood Town in 2018-19. A versatile player who reads the game well. Returning from injury. Ryan Boswell Defender. 24 years old. Joined the club in September 2018 from Bowers & Pitsea. Has Isthmian experience

at Romford and East Thurrock United. A calming influence at the back and an ever-present name on the team sheet. Eljay Worrell Defender. 30 years old. Re-joined the club after being Player of the Year in 2012. Has years of Isthmian League experience with Grays Athletic, Great Wakering, Basildon United and Redbridge. Can be a dangerous player moving up the pitch. Played more than 50 times for the club. Brian Moses Striker. 24 years old. Joined the club from Cheshunt. Has played for Waltham Forest, Redbridge and Basildon United. Scored nine times in Cheshunt’s last 10 matches in 201819 that saw them win promotion. Two years ago, he scored 33 times for Redbridge. Joe Turpin Defender. 22 years old. Returned to the club in March 2020 from Basildon United. In his previous spell with the

club, he was closing in on 50 appearances.

Dartford in September 2020. Rated highly by coaches.

Darren Phillips Defender. 21 years old. Re-signed by the Dockers after a short stay at Basildon United and Canvey Island. Initially signed from Basildon United in November 2018. Experience at East Thurrock, Burnham Ramblers and Basildon Town. Harry Girling Goalkeeper. 22 years old. Signed for the Dockers in August 2020 from Premier side Cheshunt. Harry caught the eye with some spectacular saves in the three seasons he has was with the club. Was a signed professional with Millwall. Brendan Ocran Midfield. 23 years old. Joined the Dockers from local rivals Basildon United in September 2020. Has Isthmian League experience. Cameron Brodie Midfield. 19 years old. Signed on loan from National League side

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Ducks in action

Above: Juwon Akintunde forces the ball over the line against Daventry Town Below: Lee Stobbs avoids the attention of the Daventry defender

Above: Akintunde shares his delight after scoring 24

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Below: Harry Jones was composed at right back once again

Above: Jack Hopwood with a crucial save when the scores were level Below: Ty Deacon turns his man for the equaliser in the second half

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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

Ball

3 Oct 20

15:00 H Daventry Town

LEAGUE

3-2

112

Hopwood

6 Oct 20

15:00

Berkhamsted

LEAGUE

3-2

242

Weatherill

10 Oct 20

15:00

Coleshill Town

LEAGUE

1-4

166

Hopwood

17 Oct 20

15:00 H Tilbury

FA TRO

24 Oct 20

15:00

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

Biggleswade

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 H Biggleswade

LEAGUE

3 Apr 21

15:00

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

Halesowen Town

Daventry Town

Kempston Rovers

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Hopwood

Ball

Bewley

â&#x161;½

â&#x161;½ ð&#x;&#x;¨

Jenkins

Riddick

Wood

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

Riddick

Bewley

Wood

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

Bewley

Wood

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

Riddick

Jones

Bewley

Wood

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

Riddick

Jones

Bewley

Jones Ball

2â&#x192;£

Jones

ð&#x;&#x;¨

Bewley

ð&#x;&#x;¨

Bewley

Wood

ð&#x;&#x;¨

Wood

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

ð&#x;&#x;¨ 1â&#x192;£ â&#x161;½

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

Riddick

ð&#x;&#x;¨

Riddick

7 Hercules Hercules

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

Hercules Rudd

â&#x161;½ â&#x161;½ 3â&#x192;£

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

Ball Ball Hogg

2â&#x192;£

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

Deacon

â&#x161;½ 2â&#x192;£ Akintunde â&#x161;½ 1â&#x192;£ Deacon â&#x161;½ â&#x161;½

Akintunde

Deacon

10 French

3â&#x192;£

French

11 Stobbs

2â&#x192;£

Deacon

3â&#x192;£ Stobbs 1â&#x192;£

14 Deacon

1â&#x192;£

Sangoya

Deacon

Stobbs

French

Stobbs

McCrohan

2â&#x192;£ Hercules 3â&#x192;£ Deacon 1â&#x192;£ â&#x161;½

French

Stobbs

Hogg

Akintunde

French French

French

â&#x161;½ 1â&#x192;£

Stobbs

â&#x161;½

Jones

Stobbs

Hopwood

Ball

2â&#x192;£

1â&#x192;£ â&#x161;½

Akintunde

3â&#x192;£

Sangoya

Weatherill

2â&#x192;£

Rudd

Seaton

Jenkins

Sangoya

Seaton

Rudd

McCrohan

Sangoya

Jones

1â&#x192;£

Rudd

1â&#x192;£ Jenkins 2â&#x192;£

McCrohan

1â&#x192;£

Hopwood Weatherill Hopwood

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Recent results The Pitching In Southern League Division One Central Last updated: 14 October 2020

TEAM

PTS

Aylesbury United

Barton Rovers

Bedworth United

Corby Town

Welwyn Garden City

Halesowen Town

Berkhamsted

Bedford Town

Kidlington

Thame United

AFC Dunstable

-1

Daventry Town

-1

Wantage Town

-6

Didcot Town

-9

St Neots Town

Yaxley

-5

Kempston Rovers

-6

Biggleswade

-5

Coleshill Town

-7

North Leigh

-8