CLAN
EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB MATCHDAY PROGRAMME
RUGBY TOWN FC UNITED COUNTIES FOOTBALL LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION SOUTH MONDAY 18TH APRIL 2022 KICK OFF 3:00PM
EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
THE CHAIRMAN Good afternoon Welcome to Addison Road for the first of two home fixtures to finish the season. I would like to wish a special welcome to all those connected with Rugby Town FC. There are certainly no easy games in this division and the league table suggests this is going to be a really tough test for Sports today. I am sure the lads will not be put off however, and after all, we have given all of the top sides in the league a real game at home this season. Fingers crossed we can put in another strong performance today to make things difficult. As the season is coming to an end, I think we can be pleased with our first season in the United Counties Premier Division. The current run of results has been disappointing, but a number of those games could have gone either way. Losing our top goals corer, who is now doing very well at North Leigh, also hasn’t helped as we were unable to find a replacement who can score the number of goals he did. This is something we will need to think very carefully about before the start of next season. At times players, managers, spectators and even the committee have been frustrated with things on and off the field. Perhaps we all need to consider where we were 12 months ago. This time last year we were without football and so on reflection, it is great to finish a football season for the first time in 3 years. We also need to remember that we are still virtually new to step 5 football. We feel the United Counties is a much tougher league than the Hellenic Premier Division and others who are new to the division also hold similar views. Fingers crossed we can finish the season with two good performances at home to offer some encouragement as we look to plan for another season in the United Counties league next season. I hope you enjoy the match this afternoon and please drive safely as you leave at the end of the game.
Best wishes Richard Meadows Chairman
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
Good afternoon and welcome to Addison Road, Warm welcome to Karl Adam’s and his team to Addison road. Since our last home game against Desborough we’ve had two back to back away games. Last Saturday away at Potton we was down to bare bones I thought we gave a good account of ourselves and didn’t think there was much in the game but unfortunately we missed our chances to score and we got punished for our mistakes which has been a common theme throughout this winless run that we see ourselves on. Away at Rothwell on Saturday we had a few key players back in the squad in key areas for us which resulted in us having a more positive performance on the pitch. I thought we managed the game well on the whole on a tricky pitch. The game was always going to be decided on who made the least amount of mistakes. Even though we took the lead twice in the game I thought it was important for us to get something out the game and stop the losing run which we did and that’s credit to the players and hopefully we can build on that and get that all elusive win we desperately want before the end of the season. Onto today’s game against a very good and experienced Rugby Town side. We know we’re in for a tough game today as at this stage of the season the league table doesn’t lie and they’re 3rd in the table for a reason. When we played them back in December I thought we was well beaten on the day and their quality told. Undoubtedly they have got a lot of quality and experienced players in their team who have played a lot of games at higher level. Although we’re missing some players from Saturdays squad we’ve got some good experience and quality in the team to give a good account of ourselves to get something out this game. I believe if we cut out the individual mistakes and show some desire and will to compete all over the pitch we can get something out the game. Hope you enjoy todays game and good luck to Rugby next week in their final game away at Potton. Wish the Rugby Town fans safe travel home.
Jake Butler Coach
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
MATCH REPORT Rothwell Corinthians FC 2 v 2 Easington Sports FC Sports end run of defeats Sports play well and should have taken three points Sports travelled away to Rothwell Corinthians keen to put an end to a poor run of results. With a number of players returning to the starting lineup, there was a sense of optimism in the squad. The sense of belief was reflected in the start and the pace up front of Walton and Taylor caused the opposition issues. It was Walton who pounced on a mistake by the Rothwell defence to slot home and take the lead. This seemed to galvanise the home side who grew into the first half. The rock hard dry pitch was causing both teams issues and it was another mistake which led to the equaliser. Josh Rose tried to set young keeper Dale Freeman but the ball bobbled and came off his shin for a corner. From the corner the Rothwell number 9 broke free to head home. In the second half Lucas Northover replaced the injured Watts. Sports started bright again. A quick free kick by Dunn found Swann who crossed for O’Regan to head the ball down into the ground and in. Sports then really should have extended their lead. First of all Walton was put clean through but somehow missed the target as the keeper approached. Minutes later it was the same again as captain Joe Eyre was put through. He tried to go round the keeper but saved. Rothwell made Sports pay when another corner was converted at the near post to level the scores. Both teams then shared the spoils as the game finished 2-2. A point but should have been more.
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
EASINGTON SPORTS FC HISTORY The Club was formed in the immediate post-war period of 1945/46 to fulfil the sporting and social needs of the young people of the Easington housing estate in Banbury, many of who were returning from war service. The Club, then known as ‘The Clan’, soon prospered, as there was an obvious need for such a facility, and formed a cricket, tennis and a ladies section. Football was, however, the main branch of the Club’s activity, and they began playing in the local Junior Leagues as Easington Sports F.C. The football was played on pastureland to the west of Wykham Lane, and for a few years endured the lack of facilities enjoyed today by almost all clubs. (No water available on site, no real changing facilities to name but two of the privations to be met on a cold winter’s afternoon). Fortunately, this situation was soon to change, for as a result of tireless fund raising by all concerned and some dedicated work by stalwarts such as Gordon Vivash, Tim Fountain and many other committed club members, the prospect of a new ground owned by the Club became a reality. The purchase of the Addison Road ground and the building of a clubroom, together with the Club’s entry to the Oxfordshire Senior League was the beginning of senior football for Sports, and to their credit they proved to be a formidable force at that level. (Becoming winners and finalists in the Senior Cup and heading the Premier League table on two occasions in the early and mid-fifties). In view of their success at county level the Club sought entry, and was accepted into the old Warwickshire Combination, which at that time counted professional and semiprofessional teams. (Aston Villa ‘A’, West Bromwich Albion ‘B’ and teams which now grace the Conference as members). Although having moderate success in this competition, as with many other amateur clubs; finance played its part in the decision to return to the Oxfordshire Senior League, where the expenses, in particular travelling, were much more in line with the club’s limited income. Looking to raise their standards once more, the Club sought entry to the Hellenic League. Subject to certain ground improvements they were readily accepted, and have remained as members of Division One ever since. With some ‘ups and downs’, Sport’s have almost always been mid-table at the end of each season, which, considering their amateur status against mostly professional or well-sponsored opponents has not been too bad a record. The Club has always sought to give the youngsters of Banbury and district an opportunity to get into senior football, and indeed beyond, and has continually run youth teams at various age levels. Wishing all those whose ability took them to higher levels good luck, and feeling grateful that the club gave them the start/plat- form to their careers. It has sometimes been said that Easington Sports have not been ambitious or forward looking enough in their sixty years, but shrewd and cautious stewardship by series of committees over the years have ensured that the club has never overreached itself financially, and has remained faithful to its original ideals to provide football of a good standard for local youth. In 2019 the club were awarded Community Charter Standard Status and currently have 35 affiliated teams. Our youth teams include both boys and girls and our open age section now includes three male, two female and a pan disability squad. We remain committed to providing those in the local community with a pathway into football. Our lateral movement into the UCLS for 2021 /2022 provides a welcome new challenge.
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
MEET THE SQUAD
PHOTOS BY E BARSON
Joe WHITE
Joe EYRE ©
Josh ROSE
Lloyd SABIN
Goalkeeper
Defender
Defender
Defender
Sponsored by
Sponsored by
Sponsored by
Elliot BARTON
Olly GODDARD
Tom SMITH
Michael O’REGAN
Defender
Defender
Defender
Sponsored by
Sponsored by
Sponsored by
Defender Sponsored by
Sponsored by
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
MEET THE SQUAD
PHOTOS BY E BARSON
Harry BROCK
Alex STOTT
James WATTS
Lucas NORTHOVER
Defender
Midfielder
Midfielder
Midfielder
Sponsored by
Sponsored By
Sponsored by
Sponsored by
Lewis BALDWIN
Reece BAYLISS
Luke SWANN
Alfie DUNN
Midfielder
Midfielder
Midfielder
Midfielder
Sponsored by
Sponsored by
Sponsored by
Sponsored By
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
MEET THE SQUAD
Adam TAYLOR
Harry WALTERS
Piers WALTON
Sam Sherpa Moore
Striker
Striker
Striker
Sponsored By
Sponsored by
Sponsored by
Striker Sponsored by
Matt GILES
Jake Butler
Manager
Coach
Sponsored by
PHOTOS BY E BARSON
Sponsored by
Danny Fox Coach Sponsored by
Wally Hastie Coach Sponsored by
JOE BISHOP
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Ali Whitrow Physio Sponsored by
EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
CLUB SPONSORS
To sponsor any of the players, programme, match day event or pitch side banner, please contact easingtonsports@hotmail.com to discuss all opportunities. With a social media reach of over 20000 people per week in the local community what better way to promote your business with the fastest growing club in North Oxfordshire and Oxfordshire Football Association Charter Standard Club of the Year 2019-2020.
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
LEAGUE TABLE United Counties Football League South Premier League Pos
Team
1
Harborough Town FC
36 32
2 2
93
98
2
Hinckley LRFC
36 31
2 3
71
95
3
Rugby Town FC
36 24
4 8
32
76
4
Newport Pagnell Town FC
35 23
2 10
38
71
5
Coventry Sphinx FC
36 22
3 11
46
69
6
Lutterworth Town FC
36 20
7 9
31
67
7
Wellingborough Town FC
37 19
6 12
15
63
8
Coventry United FC
36 17
6 13
17
57
9
Eynesbury Rovers FC
36 13
7 16
-4
46
10
Godmanchester Rovers FC
36 13
6 17
-5
45
11
Potton United FC
36 12
7 17
-11
43
12
Cogenhoe United FC
36 11
9 16
-13
42
13
Bugbrooke St.Michaels FC
36 14
5 17
-13
41 *
14
G.N.G Oadby Town FC
37 11
8 18
-15
41
15
Long Buckby AFC
37 12
5 20
-37
41
16
Easington Sports FC
36 10
5 21
-18
35
17
Desborough Town FC
36 10
8 18
-19
35 *
18
Rothwell Corinthians FC
36 5
8 23
-37
23
19
Biggleswade United FC
36 5
3 28 -101
18
20
Northampton O.N.Chenecks FC
36 3
5 28
-70
14
21
Peterborough Northern Star FC
0
0 0
0
0
P W D L GD
0
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PTS
EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
SEASON STATS 2021/2022 League Player Name
Apps
J White
28
T Smith
13
E Barton
Goals
FA Cup/Vase Apps
Goals
ESFC Total Apps
Goals
Yellow
28 1
4
17
15
2
17
J Rose
29
2
31
O Goddard
18
J Eyre
28
L Northover
23
L Swann
1
18
1 1 1
6
34
4
5
28
4
29
4
5
34
4
P Walton
21
2
1
22
2
D Fountain
4
2
6
L Baldwin
8
3
11
A Doyle
5
5
10
A Stott
14
3
M O’Regan
13
3
H Walters
28
5
H Brock
19
J Peters
7
3
7
3
L Sabin
24
1
24
1
J Watts
31
3
34
J Fountain
15
2
17
A Dunn
18
S Sherpa Moore
6
L Steele
10
1
14
3
3
16
3
4
32
5
19
2 12
2
1
20
3
6
0
10
12
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Red
•
EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
OUITC and ESFC Holiday Camp Children looking to develop new football skills in a fun and supportive environment are being encouraged to sign-up to Oxford United in the Community’s half-term holiday camps. The football club’s official charity will operate three camps for children of all abilities aged 4-13 and 4-15 at The Oxford Academy in Littlemore and Easington Sports Football Club in Banbury between Monday, February 21, and Friday, February 25. The fun programmes teach new football skills and techniques while focusing on the development of agility, balance and coordination. All abilities are welcome with the emphasis on the comfort, enjoyment and safety of all children. Sessions are being delivered at both venues as part of Oxford United in the Community’s commitment to providing every person aged ‘two to 92’ living in the county with a positive connection to the football club. Chris Lowes, Head of the Charity, said: “Our flagship half-term holiday camps are a fantastic way for children to stay active, make new friends, boost their wellbeing and learn new skills via team-based challenges and activities. “We’re grateful to The Oxford Academy and Easington Sports FC for their continued support by allowing us to host our popular programme of half-term activities which help players of all abilities reach their full potential. “The camps are a real highlight among our experienced and qualified coaches who enjoy engaging with participants and helping them overcome challenges through the power of teamwork, communication and listening. “We can only offer a limited number of spaces, so we advise parents to book on via our website in advance to avoid disappointment.” The three half-term camps organised by Oxford United in the Community this February half term are: Easington Sports FC Holida camp Tuesday, April 19th until Thursday, April 22nd. 9am – 3pm. Suitable for children of all playing abilities aged 4-13. This is an indoor camp and will take place in the sports hall only each day. Book here. All Oxford United in the Community coaches are FA qualified and have up to date safeguarding, first aid training and CRC checks. Children must bring their own bottle of water and a healthy packed lunch each day and arrive between 8.45am and 9am each morning to sign-in. They are also required to wear clothing suitable for physical activity and football, including shinpads, boots, t-shirt and shorts. Spaces are available on a first come, first served, basis. Oxford United in the Community is the football club’s official charity and helps inspire people to live happier and healthier lives in better connected communities using the power of football.
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
FIXTURES AND RESULTS 2021/22 Date
Opponents
H/ A
Competition
Score
FA Cup
1-1
Scorers
07/08
Wokingham and Emmbrook
H
10/08
Wokingham and Emmbrook
A
FA Cup
14/08
Harborough Town
H
UCLS
1-2
Swann
21/08
Cinderrford Town FC
A
FA Cup
3-3
Taylor, OG, H Rose
24/08
Cinderford Town FC
H
FA Cup
28/08
PNS
A
30/08
Coventry Sphinx
04/09
Bowden
0-0 (4-3 PENS)
2-2 (4-2 PENS)
Billing, H Rose
UCLS
2-2
Walker, Swann
H
UCLS
0-3
Cirencester Town
A
FA Cup
3-0
08/09
Northampton ON
A
UCLS
0-4
11/09
Lutterworth Town
A
UCLS
6-0
14/09
NPTFC
H
UCLS
1-2
18/09
Cogenhoe Utd
H
UCLS
0-1
21/09
Coventry Utd
H
UCLS
3-0
25/09
London Colney FC
H
FA Vase
0-2
02/10
Godmanchester R
A
UCLS
2-2
Walters, Own goal
05/10
Long Buckby
A
UCLS
4-5
Peters 2 Goddard O’Regan OG
09/10
Rothwell Cor
H
UCLS
2-1
Hammond, Dunn
16/09
Biggleswade Utd
A
UCLS
1-2
Walters, Dunn
19/09
Bugbrooke St Mc
H
UCLS
1-2
Walters
23/10
Cropredy
A
Cup
0-3
Swann, OG, Walters
26/10
Newport Pagnell
A
UCLS
1-0
30/10
GNG Oadby
A
UCLS
2-1
OG
06/11
Eynesbury Rovers
H
UCLS
3-0
Northover x 2, Walton
09/11
Hinckley LRFC
H
UCLS
1-2
Northover
13/11
Wellingborough Town
A
UCLS
0-0
20/11
Potton United
H
UCLS
1-1
04/12
Coventry Sphinx
A
UCLS
1-0
11/12
Wellingborough T
H
UCLS
3-3
Steele x2, Stott
18/12
Cogonhoe United
A
UCLS
2-1
Stott
28/12
Rugby Town
A
UCLS
3-0
O’Regan x 2, Billing, Taylor
Swann
Smith, Peters, Dunn
Northover
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
FIXTURES AND RESULTS 2021/22 Date
Opponents
H/ A
Competition
Score
Scorers
03/01
Long Buckby
H
UCLS
5-0
Steele x 3, Walters, Walton
08/01
Lutterworth Town
H
UCLS
4-2
18/01
Oxford City
A
OFA Cup
4-1
Stott
29/01
Bugbrooke St Mich
A
UCLS
1-2
Watts, Steele
05/02
North ON Chenecks
H
UCLS
1-2
Steele
12/02
Coventry United
A
UCLS
0-3
Steele x 2, Northover
15/02
Harborough Town
A
UCLS
7-0
19/02
Hinckley LRFC
A
UCLS
1-0
05/03
Biggleswade UTD
H
UCLS
0-1
12/03
Desborough Town
A
UCLS
2-0
22/03
GNG Oadby
H
UCLS
1-2
26/03
Eynesbury Rovers
A
UCLS
5-0
02/04
Desborough Town
H
UCLS
09/04
Potton United
A
UCLS
2-0
16/04
Rothwell Corinthians
A
UCLS
2-2
18/04
Rugby Town
H
UCLS
23/04
Godmanchester Rov
H
UCLS
Dunn
Walton, O’Regan
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
United Counties Football League
Premier Division South Monday 18th April 2022
Easington Sports FC DALE FREEMAN TOM SMITH TOM HAYNES JOSH ROSE MICHAEL O’REGAN LUKE SWANN JOE EYRE © ALFIE DUNN SAM SHERPA MOORE ADAM TAYLOR ALEX STOTT LLOYD SABIN LUCAS NORTHOVER ANDREW STIDDER JAMES WATTS
Manager: Matt Giles Assistants : Wally Hastie, Jake Butler, Danny Fox Physio: Ali Whitrow
Rugby Town FC
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 17 18
ASHLEY BODYCOTE DAN SUMMERFIELD LUKE ENGLISH LIAM FRANCIS JAMAL CLARKE KEENAH ROSSER CAINE ELLIOTT BARRY FITZHARRIS DAVID KOLODYNSKI EDWIN AHENKORAH ADAM SHAW ALEX LOCK JUSTIN MARSDEN MADUNDO SEMAHIMBO JOSH THOMAS HARRY EDEN LOYSIO RECCI
Manager : Assistant: Physio:
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
New Club Kit Provider We are delighted to announce that we will be partnering with MDH Teamwear for the 2022/2023 season as our provider for kit and equipment across all teams. MDH will offer a range of Joma products available to teams / sponsors / parents to order. A selected range has been chosen in consultation with MDH to ensure that moving forward all ESFC teams wear the same kits, in the same colours. Details of our new online shop will be released soon. We are looking forward to working with MDH and thank Andy Sparrow and team for giving us this exciting opportunity.
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
Rugby Town will take their place in the Midland Football League in the 2017/18 season for the first time in their history after a 34-year stay in the Southern & Northern Premier Leagues. Valley Sports’ first competitive game was on 8th September 1956 in Division Three of the Rugby & District League when Dunchurch Lodge were beaten 7-0 at Thornfield. At the end of the following season the club was promoted to Division Two and two years later, as runners up, to Division One – finishing as runners up in Division One in 1962/63 before a move was then made to the Coventry & North Warwickshire League. Four seasons were spent in Division Two before promotion came to Division one for the 1967/68 season. That season saw a 12th place finish but, following three previous cup final losses, Valley Sports won their first silverware beating Wolvey Amateurs 2-1 to lift the Rugby Hospital Cup on 1st May 1968. It became clear at this time that a Rugby Borough Council decision to redevelop Thornfield for Rugby’s new swimming pool and sports centre, made in July 1966, would not include a football pitch in the plans. At the same time mass withdrawals from the Coventry & North Warwickshire League at the end of the 1968/69 season forced the club to make plans as to what league they were to play in and to continue their search for exclusive use of a new ground if they were to continue the progress achieved over the previous 13 seasons at Thornfield. An application to join the United Counties League was rejected, at the AGM, by the clubs but UCL Secretary, Ken Bacon, managed to get the decision reversed and the club were admitted to Division Three for the 1969/70 season and with no other ground available the club commenced its new era at council owned Hillmorton Recreation Ground with a 3-0 win against British Timken Duston on 3rd September 1969. Partly derelict allotment land at Butlin Road was identified for a new ground and the persistence of the club officials persuaded the Rugby Borough Council to approve the granting of a 30 year lease at a meeting on 19 May 1970. The first season in the United Counties League was a successful one with only five games lost, a fifth place finish and the Divisional Cup won as 16 games were played at Hillmorton that season. The 1970/71 season saw the name changed to Valley Sports Rugby and entry into a groundshare agreement with the original Rugby Town football club who played in the Southern League at the time, for the use of Oakfield. A third place finish in Division Three was followed in the 1971/72 season with a runners up place and promotion to Division 1 plus recognition by the Birmingham County FA of the club’s senior status which meant entry into the FA Amateur Cup for 1973/74, it’s very last season. The demise of the original Rugby Town club in May 1973 meant that the barely ready Butlin Road ground had to be used the following season with the first competitive game there being on 6th October 1973 against Burton Park Wanderers which ended goal-less.
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
The clubhouse was opened on 19 September 1974 and the semi-final of the Birmingham Senior Amateur Cup was reached which prompted the West Midlands (Regional) League to invite the club into its Premier Division for the 1975/76 season. The club name was changed to VS Rugby as the club progressed, but life in the higher league proved tough for some seasons alleviated only with wins in the FA Cup against Southern League sides Dunstable Town and Bedworth United. In 1980/81 the first seated stand was opened on 4 September 1980, but a dire opening to the season saw manager Len Willett sacked and Jimmy Knox appointed manager, taking charge from caretaker manager Les Smith at Bilston on 31 January 1981. It was a decision that was to transform the fortunes of the club for just over 11 years. Jimmy had been a successful player and manager at Rugby Town, before a spell as top Non-League manager at AP Leamington. His reputation enabled him to survive defeats in his first five matches and ten defeats in the first eleven. The 1981/82 season was a much improved campaign finishing in a creditable 8th spot as Jimmy set about building a new team. Then came 1982/83! On 30 April 1983 Jimmy Knox led VS Rugby to success at Wembley in the FA Vase Final beating fellow WM(R) League side Halesowen Town 1-0, amazingly just 27 months after then Chairman Mick Vousden had persuaded him to manage his home town club. A Valley club which had itself reached such a pinnacle at the end of only its 27th season. The opportunity to join the Southern Football League Midland Division 10 years after opening the Butlin Road ground was taken, however, it was dependant on the club being able to provide floodlights. This was achieved in record time being used for the first time in an FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round Replay against Heybridge Swifts on 5 October 1983 with a 2-0 victory in front of 622 spectators. After a gap of 10 years, Rugby again had a representative team at this level. Under manager Knox, the club moved into the Premier Division after winning the 1986/87 Midland Division Championship, won the Southern League Cup and Birmingham Senior Cup, and had memorable FA Cup encounters with Northampton Town, Leyton Orient, Bristol Rovers and Bristol City taking all but Bristol City to a replay. Jimmy Knox left Butlin Road in the summer of 1992 with the team 3rd in the Premier Division and the Birmingham Senior Cup again behind the bar. His departure led to a rapid decline in the clubs fortunes. VS were relegated for the first time in their history, and then put into receivership in 1993. A group of supporters rescued the club, buying back the VS Rugby name and with the club obtaining the keys to the ground only four days before the first game of the 1993/94 season, manager Ron Bradbury somehow assembled a team. The makeshift team lost only two of their first 24 games and went on to gain automatic promotion behind newly formed Rushden & Diamonds. VISIT: EasingtonSportsfc.com – For the latest fixtures, results, news and much more…
EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
That season also saw another FA Cup 1st Round game against Football League opposition when Brentford attracted 3,006 fans to Butlin Road. In 1999 the club was again in danger but the remaining directors were joined by former player and local business man Brian Melvin who secured the club’s future and started developments around the ground with a new 500 seater cantilever stand housing dressing rooms underneath was opened in 2003, a refurbished club house bar and an improved playing surface. The club was renamed Rugby United and had put the club in a position to compete in the Southern League Premier Division following the reorganisation of Non-League football. After five seasons another name change was made, this time to Rugby Town FC for the 2005/06 season whilst a grant from the Football Foudation was obtained to develop all-weather pitches at Butlin Road. The 3G rubbercrumb full sized pitch plus training pitch was opened in October 2006. As the facilities continued to be improved a 1,300 capacity covered standing terrace along the whole Allotment End was opened in March 2007. Further improvements include a new hospitality suite which was opened in November 2014 following the conversion of the original dressing rooms whilst a new public address system was completed in August 2015. Winning the Midland Floodlit Cup, for the 3rd time, on the 12 May 1999 is the only one to have been won since the 1993/94 season, however, the last five seasons in the Southern League Central Division saw the club finish no lower than 6th and two consecutive runners up finishes in 2012/13 & 2013/14, when manager Dave Stringer, assembled a squad of talented players who were unlucky not to have secured a return back to the Southern League Premier Division. They broke almost all the previous performance records when in 2012/13 they recorded the highest points tally of 96 and the highest goals for record of 103. Despite finishing 11 points ahead of fourth placed Biggleswade Town and leading 1-0 in the play-off final they missed promotion when the visitors were awarded a controversial penalty which turned the game. In the 2013/14 play-off semi-final the team were no match for 5th placed Slough Town at Butlin Road after again finished as runners-up. It was another season when 100 league goals were scored. Individually David Kolodynski became the club’s all time leading goalscorer at senior level passing Danny Conway. A sixth place Central Division finish in 2014/15 proved a huge disappointment and on 1st May 2015 it was announced that Dave Stringer had left his manager’s position by mutual consent. For the 2015/16 season, Rugby were switched to the Northern Premier League for the first time after 32 years in the Southern League. A poor start under rookie new manager, Gary Mills, saw him replaced in September by former Valley goalkeeper, Dale Belford whosteadied the team in his first four months in charge, followed by a surge towards the play-offs before finishing 9th in NPL Division One South. The team won three Fair Play Awards for their exemplary disciplinary record during the season including an FA Respect Award. The 2016/17 season saw new manager James Jepson also leave the club shortly into his tenure with another former player, Gary Moran, taking charge in September. VISIT: EasingtonSportsfc.com – For the latest fixtures, results, news and much more…
EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
His first managerial appointment ended with the team finishing 21st in the league and relegation to Step 5 for the first time after 34 seasons. Club relegated into the Midland Football League Premier Division for the 2017/18 season but the return of Dave Stringer as manager, following two seasons in charge of Chasetown. History by Landmarks • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Early 1950s sees beginnings of a club in Rugby called Glebe Rangers 1955 sees a change of name to New Bilton Juniors who played friendlies Another change in 1956 sees a sees a newly named Valley Sports play in their first competitive match in the Rugby and District League at Thornfield, which became their home ground for the first 13 seasons 1959 Sky & Navy Blue striped shirts and socks with Sky Blue shorts were introduced 1969/1970 Development of Rugby’s Sports Centre & Swimming Baths saw the club play it’s home games at Hillmorton Recreation Ground for one season as the club enter the United Counties League From 1969 to 1973 Valley Sports played their home games at Southern League side Rugby Town’s Oakfield ground 1971 and another change to a geographically more acceptable Valley Sports Rugby In 1973 the former Rugby Town club lose Oakfield and disband after 15 seasons in the Southern League In 1973, the club move to their present ground Butlin Road. Used for the first time by the Valley on 6 October 1973 with the clubhouse opened on 19 September 1974 1975/1976 season sees club invited to play in the West Midlands (Regional) League Premier Division and club name abreviated to VS Rugby The first stand opposite the clubhouse was erected in 1980 In 1981, Jimmy Knox is appointed as first team manager VS Rugby win the FA Vase after defeating Halesowen Town in the final in 1983 in front of over 6,000 Rugby fans 1983 also sees VS Rugby promoted to the Southern League for the first time VS Rugby reach the FA Cup First Round in 1984 forcing Northampton Town to a replay at Butlin Road before bowing out Record attendance of 3,961 against Northampton in FA Cup tie in 1984 Jimmy Knox leads Valley to the Southern League Midland Division title in 1987 The club are Birmingham Senior Cup winners in 1989 & again in 1992 Southern League Cup winners in 1990 After 11 years Jimmy Knox leaves Butlin Road in the summer of 1992 with the team 3rd in the Southern League Premier Division VS Rugby reach Second Round of FA Cup but defeated by Marlow in replay with Tottenham Hotspur waiting in the third round in 92/93 VS suffer first ever relegation from the Southern League Premier Division in 1993 Club put into liquidation in 1993, but club saved by dedicated supporters Ron Bradbury guides Rugby to another Southern League Midland Division promotion back into the Premier in 1994 Brentford are the visitors to Butlin Road in 1993/94 in the FA Cup First Round Relegation ensues back to the Southern League Midland Division in 1996 In 1999, the club is again in danger of becoming extinct, but debts are wiped when Brian Melvin becomes Chairman Extension to clubhouse is constructed as the building is completely refurbished A change of name arrives in 2000 as Rugby United In 2002, 500-seater cantilever stand is erected next to the clubhouse and it is officially opened in 2003 Rugby are promoted to the Southern League Premier Division after a non-league restructuring A new name comes into place in 2005 as the main senior and junior clubs in the town come together under the one name of Rugby Town
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB •
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The two clubs, junior and senior, are awarded £1.5m by the Football Foundation to construct brand new facilities at Kilsby Lane and Butlin Road Club construct new 3G rubber-crumb training facility at Butlin Road which is completed in October 2006 – also used for community use. New 1,300 capacity covered standing terrace is erected along whole Allotment End side of the ground in March 2007. In 2009-10, Valley are relegated from the Southern League Premier after a seven year stay 2012-13 under Dave Stringer, Runners-up in Southern League Division One Central to Burnham – Play Off Final Defeat to Biggleswade Town. 2013-14 under Dave Stringer, Runners-up in Southern League Division One Central to Dunstable Town. Playoff Semi Final defeat to Slough Town. In November 2014 new Hospitality Suite to accommodate up to 100 people opened where the original dressing rooms used to be housed Moved to Northern Premier League in 2015/16 for first time in club’s history after 32 year spell in Southern League Relegated from NPL to Midland Football League after a poor season
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
VISIT: EasingtonSportsfc.com – For the latest fixtures, results, news and much more…
EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
Easington Sports FC – One Club – The Clan – Oxfordshire FA Club of the Year
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EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
CLUB NEWS ESFC Wildcats – New players welcome This is the fourth year we have run the programme and since its development we now have 5 affiliated girls teams and loads of new players to the game – which is awesome. The sessions will be run by Tammy Starr and Emily Lambden – ESFC Ladies players on Tuesday evenings 6-7pm at BGN school. Any girls aged 5-11 years are welcome, contact easingtonsports@hotmail.com for more info
Volunteers needed – Can you help!!! We are a volunteer driven football club, and all of what we achieve is done through the amazing volunteers that we have associated with the club. As ever, and in line with our expansion, we are looking for more people to join The Clan. Below is a list of roles we currently need assistance with – Can you help? Pitch Preparations – To ensure pitches prepared and marked each Friday before the busy weekend at Addison Road. To include open age and youth team pitches. Pitches to be cut when needed and line marked. Match Day Hospitality – To coordinate with the First Team Committee and Club House Manager and to provide hospitality for those officials joining us at Addison Road from opposing teams in the UCLS Match Day Videos – We are looking for a film / sports enthusiast who would be interested in filming the first team games and producing match day edited highlights. Sponsorship / Marketing Manager – To work alongside the Committee and seek new sponsorship opportunities and to engage with the local business community. For more information contact easingtonsports@hotmail.com
Whats coming up? Sunday 1st May 2022 sees the next session for our new Over 50’s team. Following the initial session we have now had over 30 players register their interest which is a fabulous start. More new players welcome…. Our 2022 Summer Tournament is scheduled for 4/5th June 2022. Over 120 teams are expected in Banburys largest sporting event. Due to Covid, we haven’t been able to host the event for the last two years and we are delighted to once again be able to put on this festival. For more info and to book please visit https://easingtonsports.torneopal.com/ VISIT: EasingtonSportsfc.com – For the latest fixtures, results, news and much more…
EASINGTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB
VISIT: EasingtonSportsfc.com – For the latest fixtures, results, news and much more…