Cambridge United v Oxford United by Hashtag Digital Media

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v OXFORD UNITED SAT AUGUST 07 2021 Kick-Off: 3.00pm

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Fan noticeboard WELCOME U’s fans, welcome back! It’s a pleasure to be able to produce this Matchday Programme knowing that supporters are returning to the Abbey Stadium to watch League One football. This season, the Programme will continue to be a Digital-First publication, but after receiving feedback from supporters over the Summer, we made the decision to produce a limited number of printed copies for fans to buy through a subscription service and from around the ground, should stocks allow. There are a number of new additions to the Matchday Programme this season, including a Player Q&A, a regular update from the Women’s Team, a page dedicated to the Club’s Academy operation and a column by BBC Radio Cambridgeshire’s Doug Shulman. We hope you enjoy the Programme and that Mark Bonner and his players do the business this afternoon as the Club starts a season in the third tier of English Football for the first time in nearly two decades. United in Endeavour.

Matchday Timings:

Club Shop/Ticket Office: Open from 09:30am Dublin Bar: Open from 12:30pm for Main Stand Ticket Holders Tea Bars: Open from 1:30pm Hospitality: Open from 12pm

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Today’s Contents:

5 MARK BONNER Head Coach 7 IAN MATHER From the CEO 10 OPPOSITION Oxford United 14 JUNIOR U’S Games & Fun 17 MEMORIES DOWN CUT THROAT LANE A blast from the past 21 PLAYER Q&A Get to know the new lads

31 28 43

VIEW FROM THE PRESS BOX Doug Shulman WOMEN’S TEAM Update from the U’s TICKET OFFICE Coming up next

Travel:

There is no on-site car parking available at the Abbey Stadium and supporters are advised to use the Cambridge Matchday Park & Ride service. Home and away supporters can take advantage of the Cambridge Park & Ride for a £2.50 Matchday return ticket from Newmarket Road Park & Ride, CB5 8AA. On the return leg, there will be a dedicated bus waiting in the layby outside the stadium at 4.45pm, to take fans back to the Park & Ride once the game is over. CLICK HERE For more information

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MarkHeadBonner coach

Welcome back!

Today is day one of an exciting season that we have ahead of us. We have earnt the right to be in League One off the back of last year’s success and we must adopt the tag of confident underdogs to show we can compete. We are building a team, we are early in our development cycle and whilst respecting the level and adapting to it, we need to bring the best of us from last season into this one. Our pre-season has been varied and enjoyable, but nothing replicates and replaces the competitiveness of the real season. To play in games with the intensity and edge of this nature is what makes players thrive and we need to embrace that challenge head on. I hope our supporters are looking forward to the excitement ahead and to backing us home and away against some big clubs, many whom we can consider on a similar level to us. It has been some time since

the stadium was full with real energy and noise and there is no doubt we will thrive in that environment of relentless support. We have a busy first month in August with League and Cup fixtures and know that every player will play their part. This is a key component of what made us a strong team last year - unity. That very quality, where players fight for each other, give their best, and back their teammates at all times is another key cog in the wheel for us. This afternoon we welcome Karl and his team from Oxford United along with a large away following. A packed away end often brings the best out of our supporters and so we hope for real energy inside the stadium today. Oxford are regularly competing at the top end of the division and reaching last season’s play-offs shows what strong opposition they are. We know the challenge ahead of us this season and today. We will value your support the whole way through it. Welcome back, it is great to have you here. ■ www.cambridge-united.co.uk

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Ian Mather CEO

As we kick off our League One campaign it is good to welcome Oxford United to the Abbey for the first time since 2016. Oxford are tipped for great things after reaching the playoffs last season. They will, no doubt, be tough opposition – as will all of the teams we play in the coming months. This is a big day, not only for us, but for football and wider society. Not only is it our first game in League One in 20 years. It is also the first time we have been allowed to have an unrestricted crowd since March 2020. The time since then has been very difficult for many and for the U’s, including Oxford in this as well, the last 16 months have been a rollercoaster in dealing with lots of problems that we hope never to have to face again. It is fitting, as we emerge from the COVID pandemic, that today’s match sponsor is AstraZeneca. AZ are amazing Community Sponsors for the club and when the fixture list came out there could only be one match sponsor for this game. It is fair to say that without the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine we would probably not have a crowd in today. It is the vaccination programme that has got us to where we are. If you are over 18 and have not yet had a jab, then please do so. If in doubt, look up the

Tweet from Luke Hannant last Sunday: “being anti jab to wanting every jab possible after these 10 days wow.” And: “I never thought it would affect me the way it did, as I am young, fit and healthy, however I will be getting my jabs now and urge everyone else to do so, the pain I was in this week I never want to experience again!” It is not just for you but for the benefit of all. Let’s work together to make this place as safe as can be and enjoy unrestricted crowds for the season. We had a good taster of the atmosphere fans add at Harrison Dunk’s testimonial v QPR and also the game last Saturday v Northampton. The support for the team around the ground was brilliant to hear. With some clubs bringing very large followings we can expect a number big crowds, and a few capacity sell outs. I am sure that the U’s fans will rise to the challenge of noisy visitors. In the words of a famous chef from Norfolk – “let’s be having you!” Before we kick a ball this season, most pundits tip us for relegation. Then again, they were wrong last year and everyone at the club is focused on proving them wrong again. The motto, United in Endeavour, was very appropriate last season, as it will be this. Thank you for your support and enjoy the game. ■ www.cambridge-united.co.uk

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Match Sponsors

Over the past eight years since AstraZeneca’s move to Cambridge, we have endeavoured to make it our home and play our part in fostering collaboration within the Cambridge community. We enjoy partnering with Cambridge United and through the Trust, getting involved in many community activities around the Abbey stadium, including the Active Science primary schools programme which you will get a chance to see in action today.

“It feels fitting to kick off this season against Oxford United. Over the past 18 months, our work in fighting against the global pandemic has brought us closer to both regions”

It feels fitting to kick off this season against Oxford United. Over the past 18 months, our work in fighting against the global pandemic has brought us closer to both regions, to demonstrate a remarkable effort of international collaboration. From our landmark vaccine agreement with the University of Oxford, to establishing the Cambridge COVID-19 Test Centre with the University of Cambridge – one of the largest national diagnostic labs in British history – it has been a privilege to be part of these collaborations. Seeing the unceasing work of thousands of people involved in this journey has been nothing short of inspirational. I hope that we continue to see this team spirit reflected in the sportsmanship and determination in today’s game. Wishing both the teams all the very best for this season! ■ Sir Mene Pangalos EVP, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca www.cambridge-united.co.uk

Today’s visitors OXFORD UNITED It could be a tough welcome to life in League One for Cambridge United as they host 2020/21 League One play-off semi-finalists Oxford United at the Abbey, with the U’s & Manager Karl Robinson determined to right the wrongs of previous campaigns by this season going one step further after two successive campaigns ending in play-off heartbreak. Oxford United fans will be desperate to see their side make a quick start this season, following last season’s early woes, with

CAMBRIDGE UNITED F.C. V OXFORD UNITED

United finding themselves sitting in the bottom four after ten games – however, this wasn’t to be the tale for the remainder of the season, with Oxford only losing nine of their following 36 League One games. The Yellows will be hopeful that the permanent arrival of former Barcelona central midfielder Marcus McGuane, as well as the incoming Steve Seddon and Ryan Williams from Birmingham City and Portsmouth respectively will inspire their side onto promotion this campaign.

Oxford have enjoyed a largely successful pre-season, opening their schedule with a 3-2 victory away at local rivals Oxford City, before comfortably running out as 6-1 victors away at League Two side Salford City. A 9-0 romping and a routine 3-0 victory over Non-League sides Hayes and Yeading and Banbury United then followed, before facing a much more competitive Peterborough United side in a double header behind closed doors – with both matches finishing 2-2. The U’s completed pre-season battling it out against recently relegated Bristol Rovers.■

The Manager:

Karl Robinson • 40 Years Old • Previous Clubs: MK Dons: 2010-2016 Charlton Athletic: 2016-2018 • Team Honours: League One Runner-Up 2014/15 • Individual Honours: League One Manager of the Month Aug 2011, Jan 2015, April 2015

CLICK here TO VIEW PLAYER PROFILES

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From the SLO DAVE MATTHEW-JONES This afternoon sees the beginning of a new season and for the first match at the Abbey Stadium we welcome everyone from Oxford United. Both clubs have had a similar history playing in and winning the Southern League title and followed by being elected into the Football League. Unfortunately, both then lost their places in the Football League before fighting their way back again and reaching League One. In recent years the supporters’ groups of both clubs have assisted each other. They are still doing so even now by trying to find ways that will benefit their supporters. Ideas, advice and information has always been exchanged between the groups and outside the 90 minutes of matchday all supporters should help each other to create a better game. This time last year Cambridge United were embarking on one of the most successful seasons in the club’s history. To achieve that success meant everyone coming together from the players on the pitch to the supporters at home to becoming one team together. To achieve the results required this season we will once again need everyone to come together again and also keep the faith throughout the season. We may be underdogs but we can always be United in Endeavour. Today will see a new mobile app in operation that is aimed at reducing the anxiety for SEN children coming to matches. picturepath is an app that individuals or families can download for free and provides a visual timeline to be used to reassure those with additional needs what to expect when undertaking activities Simon King has taken a series of pictures around the stadium and surrounding areas for the picturepath app which be used to create a visual timeline which is personalised to each fan and can be updated at any time during the day. This will help reduce stress and anxiety, especially amongst people who are autistic, or have dementia or Alzheimer’s, providing a visual expectation of what to expect when visiting the Abbey. Fans who are visiting grounds for the first time, or haven’t been for a while, will also benefit

from having a visual guide and this will improve their experience. People with autism and similar conditions find change to be difficult to cope with and if they cannot visualise an event or sequence of events, this creates anxiety. For an autistic child or adult who likes football, the number of people and the number of images and senses that they are processing can be very hard to process. There is a lot of evidence that providing a visual timeline reduces the anxiety and stress for these individuals. For parents with autistic children, a visual guide is a very powerful tool to reduce stress and can make the difference between being able or unable to visit an event as a family. The club also has a range of equipment that can be used on Matchdays or when visiting the ground, from ear plugs, to ear defenders and stress reducers. If contacted in advance of a match we can ensure your entry into the ground can be made easier. Email cfump@outlook.com if you would like any further information. Please look after yourself and enjoy following the team home and away this season. Contact me via dave.matthew-jones@ cambridge-united.co.uk or follow what is happening by visiting www.cambridgefansunited.org or my Twitter page @SLOCambridgeUT1 www.cambridge-united.co.uk

Junior U’s PUZZLES

Bonner’s

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A B C

SPOT THE BALL Answers: BONNER’S BRAIN BUSTER: 1. Golf 2. Horse Racing 3. Boxing SPOT THE BALL: B

CAMBRIDGE UNITED F.C. V OXFORD UNITED

Ten toQUIZTackle 1. What was the name of our visitors’ ground prior to them moving to the Kassam? a. County Ground b. Cowley Road c. Elm Park d. Manor Ground

4. In which country would I be if was watching W Connection FC v Defence Force FC? a. Malta b. Israel c. Trinidad & Tobago d. Canada

2. Oxford were elected to the Football League in 1962. What were they known as then though? a. Headington Utd b. Oxford & Headington Athletic c. Iffley Rovers d. Oxon Utd

5. When did the domestic Scottish season kick-off? a. 10 July b. 17 July c. 1 July d. 24 July

7. What is the name of Boston United’s recently completed new stadium? Or are you stumped?! a. Pilgrim Paradise b. Jakemans Stadium c. New York Street d. The Wash View

9. What has Serie A in Italy outlawed for the 2022 23 season, at the whim of TV broadcasters? a. Shirt numbers b. Substitute goalkeepers c. White footballs d. Green Kits 10. How many senior club goals has new centre back Lloyd Jones scored since his debut in 2015? a. Four b. Two c. Three d. None

Answers: 1. D, 2. A, 3. B, 4. C, 5. A, 6. B, 7. B, 8. A, 9. D, 10. A

3. The Atkinson brothers remain etched in Oxford Utd folklore. Both were to play a part in our inexorable rise in the 1960s and 1970s too. Where were they born? a. Birmingham b. Liverpool c. Solihull d. Swindon

6. Where was our summer signing Jack Lankester born? a. Ipswich b. Bury St Edmunds c. Woodbridge d. Norwich

8. Who, according football365.com, has the worst home shirt in the Championship this coming season? a. Cardiff City b. Swansea City c. Huddersfield Town d. Notts Forest

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Memories Down CUT THROAT LANE Afternoon and welcome back. We are here again but it’s joyfully different from last season, in at least two ways. Today it’s the local derby today that never was! Our ‘league’ record against these other U’s is mixed, seven wins against eight defeats and eight draws. We have some great player connections though over the years going right back to the 1960s, including the late Graham Atkinson, brother of Big Ron, the one-man engine room that was Paul Wanless and of course current striker Sam Smith. It’s time to wander back down Cut Throat Lane and we are heading to 7th August 1985, which is an unusually early date to start a league season. Everybody knows the history of the Cambs Professional Cup and the fact that it was steeped in rivalry during the 1960s when Utd and City were tearing lumps out of each other. Sadly, the relative demise of City post 1970 meant that ‘Cambs’ was in effect moved all around the country, including Cheshire at one point, to provide opposition for the U’s. Come 1985 and Norfolk came to town in the form of the Canaries. As you might expect for a non-league fixture that early in August and a Wednesday evening affair to boot, the programme is a thin effort, costing just 10p (about 30p in new money) and it’s fair to say the cover gives the game away a bit in terms of more recent apathy on Utd’s part towards the competition. Anyway, the visitors left chirping with a comprehensive 4-1 victory, Utd’s sole hitting of the back of the onion bag coming from a penalty by Steve Massey, our recent signing from Hull City. The Norwich line-up wasn’t exactly second string and featured the likes of Chris Woods in goal, Steve Bruce, Mike Phelan, Dave Watson, Kevin Drinkell and John Deehan. My only bone of contention about having a game this early in August is that we are still

amidst the first test match against our friends from India. It doesn’t take much to get this old lag confused though – I am still dealing with the U’s v the U’s and the Olympics is still on! Talking of athletics, on this day in 1954, Roger Bannister beat Australia’s John Landy in the one-mile race at the Empire Games in Vancouver - the first time a mile was run in under four minutes by two contestants. Enjoy the game. ■

Harry

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Hot OffAndrew the Habbin Stephen

“You are the book that I never get tired of reading.” Anon Well here we are again at the beginning of a season unlike any other beginning of a season. After the long grinding months of Covid isolation, crowds are back and we can suffer and enjoy the performances of our heroes in real life once more. There will be no buffering of our view unless we have spent too long in the Supporters’ Club before the game. It will be great to be back there too. The day will be made complete by the presence of 1,400 fans from Oxford who have been denied their regular football fix as much as we have. I am sure that Habbin North will live up to its reputation for inspired pessimism. Some have us down already. Others say we haven’t strengthened enough. Personally I can’t wait to see what the likes of Jones, Brophy and Weir can do. My Ipswich supporting friends are really upset that Jack Lankester has left them to join us. They say that he is a real talent. Mark Bonner is good at finding it. He has said that he prefers a small, tightly knit squad. It worked well for him last season and who can doubt his judgement. The superstitious amongst us point out that a bad start often precedes promotion historically but I wouldn’t mind playing well from the start.

We’ve lost Paul Mullin but new heroes always turn up to replace them. Some of our former heroes have played for both clubs. The Atkinson brothers played a big part in our history and Big Ron took us very close to the big time. Whatever anybody else says, I believe that the football we played under him was the most attractive football I have seen United play in my time as a fan. He brought some brilliant players to the club and showed the value of never being afraid of your opponent. I remember watching them play at the old Manor Ground when a certain Brian Greenhalgh stood out for Aston Villa. I preferred that old ground to their new one. Oxford’s fate under rich owners has not always been an enviable one. Anyway, I do like a ground with four sides.

One of our finest captains, Paul Wanless is and was an Oxford man. As our skipper, I remember him inspiring us to a draw at Lincoln when the side had been reduced to nine men by a myopic referee. On another occasion he looked after my son, who was a mascot at Notts County, a game we needed to win and did. He also looked after us when we collected some complimentary tickets at the Kassam Stadium. He is a fine ambassador for the game and the clubs he has served. I hope we win but more than that I am glad to be back. It is twenty years since we were last in League One and here we are again, making memories. Enjoy the game. ■ www.cambridge-united.co.uk

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Cambridge | Birmingham | Epping | Leeds | London

Footballing Idol: David Beckham Best ever teammate: Harvey Barnes Boyhood Club: MK Dons Toughest Opponent: Andros Townsend U’s Roommate: Paul Digby Most memorable game: League One Play-Off Final Favourite musical artist: Drake Favourite book: Goals to Gold Favourite TV show: Game of Thrones Favourite meal: Roast Dinner Proudest accomplishment: Making my professional debut Dream Holiday: Travelling USA Best U’s Buddy: Paul Digby Petrol Station Snack: Popchips Netflix or YouTube: Netflix Home, Away or Third Kit: Home Premier League or Champions League: Premier League Dogs or Cats: Dogs Messi or Ronaldo: Ronaldo Tea or Coffee: Coffee Early start or Lie-In: Lie-In

George Williams PLAYER Q&A 28 year old right-back George Williams joined the U’s this Summer after making the switch from Bristol Rovers, but is best known for his time with MK Dons, where he played for five seasons and was named the Club’s Player of the Year in 2016/17. Find out more about United’s #2 as he reveals all in our Player Q&A.

TOP 3

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Around the Division LEAGUE ONE ROUND-UP Welcome back! It’s been a long time coming, but finally the fans can rejoice once more and spur their side through what’s set to be an enticing campaign ranging from fallen giants to plucky minnows adamant to cut their teeth. As ever, let’s assess what the first week will conjure up by digesting the trials and tribulations of Sky Bet League One. Kicking off with the demoted sides, Wycombe Wanderers return to the third tier with their heads held high after a gallant conclusion to their Championship journey, where they won five of their last eight. Under Gareth Ainsworth’s tutelage off the pitch and some experienced firepower on it, the Chairboys will compete. They host Accrington Stanley, who themselves will be eager to upset the odds once more and improve on last season’s 11th position. Yo-yo club Rotherham United, who have suffered three relegations and two promotions in their last five campaigns, will fancy their chances yet again under the proven Paul Warne. The key, of course, is to find that 20+ goal a season striker and add some ruthlessness. They kick proceedings off against Ryan Lowe’s Plymouth Argyle, who can aim for a top-half finish after making several sound defensive acquisitions. Despite off-field uncertainty, mid-table is a genuine possibility for Sheffield Wednesday thanks to a strong blend of experience and young prospects. It’s a test Darren Moore will relish, starting with a tricky opener at the Valley against Charlton Athletic. With serious promotion ambitions, the time could be now for the Addicks who boast an impressive core. With an ownership regime capable of vying for promotion and the opportunity for Lee Johnson to build his own squad, the Black Cats may not need to settle for play-offs, especially if they can find someone to emulate Charlie Wyke’s 30-goal heroics. The striker, who moved

CAMBRIDGE UNITED F.C. V OXFORD UNITED

to Wigan Athletic on a free transfer, could end up haunting his former club this weekend, with the Latics poised to inevitably improve on 20th position. With reinvigorated investment and an excellent summer of astute business, Paul Cook’s Ipswich Town look set to embark on an exciting era with an aim of play-offs as the bare minimum. They take on Morecambe at Portman Road, who are plying their trade in the third tier for the first time in their 101-year history. With a relatively new squad and identity under Stephen Robinson, survival would be an applaudable achievement. Bolton Wanderers are arguably the most settled of the promoted sides and look equipped to kick on under ambitious manager Ian Evatt, who’s bolstered the Trotters’ attacking options. This sets up an intriguing encounter against dark horses MK Dons, who themselves have added exciting youngsters to a well-drilled side that have enough promise to flirt with the promotion spots. Back in League One for the first time since 2002, Cambridge United will be quietly optimistic of their chances under the unparalleled Mark Bonner. The sublime creativity of Wes Hoolahan and the battering RICHIE WELLENS manager of Doncaster Rovers

PAUL WARNE manager of Rotherham United

ram that is Joe Ironside will give the U’s a real presence. Opponents Oxford United are hoping for a case of third time lucky after consecutive play-off finishes. A stronger start is needed this time. Possessing an immense defensive unit, League Two champions Cheltenham Town have a real chance of proving a match for anyone in the division thanks to beating heart Michael Duff. A winning start is possible for the Robins, who travel to Crewe Alexandra. The Railwaymen secured an impressive 12th position last season - but with key men departing, matching that could prove tricky. After play-off final heartbreak, it could be touch-and-go for Lincoln City this season. Replacing the losses of prominent loan heroes is not an easy feat, but there’s enough strength all over the park to ensure that this Imps side will challenge. Opponents Gillingham are aggressive and robust under Steve Evans, they’re now an established top-half side, but do they have the final product to reach the top six? Richie Wellens has huge potential as a coach and is someone Doncaster Rovers will have faith in as the club look to excite more this

campaign and assemble a squad which can compete for the top half. Their efficient use of the loan market in particular could prove handy like it has in the past. Expectations are similar for AFC Wimbledon, who simply have to replace Joe Pigott’s goals otherwise a strenuous campaign awaits. Mark Robinson looks the man for the job however, with Plough Lane adding sentiment. Simon Grayson has the experience in this level to secure safety and is a sensible pair of hands for Fleetwood Town, who will see a repeat of last season’s 15th place as a success. Portsmouth will not be resting on their laurels and understand that Championship football needs to come around sooner rather than later. The Cowley brothers will no doubt work their magic and build something special, but is it a campaign too soon? To conclude, Shrewsbury Town host Burton Albion in a tie between two clubs that look to have more than enough in the tank to comfortably avoid relegation. Handy additions mean that the underdogs should be on the up under Steve Cotterill and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, who both get exactly what it means. ■ www.cambridge-united.co.uk

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Match Replay Pre-Season Games against Cardiff, Brentford, QPR and Northampton made up United’s pre-season slate as Mark Bonner’s men got back into the groove ahead of today’s kick-off. The highlights were a week-long trip to South Wales which sandwiched an unbeaten couple of games against Cardiff City, in addition to Harrison Dunk’s Testimonial game against his boyhood Rangers.

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Colchester Goal celebrations

Academy UPDATE Our U18s faced Sutton United FC this morning in their 1st league game of the 2021/22 season, as newly promoted Sutton United join the EFL South East Youth League. The start of the new league season is always exciting and brings optimism for the season ahead and we feel the boys have every reason to be optimistic given how they have performed during pre-season, both on and off the pitch. It felt great to be back in with the players this year, a lot earlier than last season (for obvious reasons) and the boys came back in great shape. They carried out there ‘off season’ programmes as well as their technical work throughout June so that they could hit the ground running at the start of July. They have had a really nice mixture of training sessions, gym based work and a diverse fixture program. This is in addition to our player workshops, inductions for our first

CAMBRIDGE UNITED F.C. V OXFORD UNITED

year Scholars and a week away in Oakham for the group to really dive down into what is going to be required of them both on and off the pitch for the new campaign. Our week in Oakham was brilliant for the boys and the staff also! Getting away with great pitches, lovely food and excellent facilities really supported what we wanted the outcomes to be from the 5 days away. It was also great to have our first fixture thrown in, against Shrewsbury Town with the lads coming out on top with a 5-1 win against a big strong side. At the end of five hard days on the grass at Oakham, the boys returned to play West Ham United FC at St Neots Town FC on the Friday night, in which was a really tightly contested affair with the young U’s coming out on top – just! The only goal of the game came from 1st year scholar and ex Hammers Schoolboy Brandon Njoku, who has really hit

the ground running in pre-season. The following week brought two really different types of fixtures, which was great. First up, was one of our Partner Clubs, Newmarket Town FC first team where the game finished 2-2. Some great goals scored from both sides, before making the trip to Ipswich to play their U23’s on the Saturday. The game finished 5-4 to the hosts and although some defending aspects could of course have been better, some of the attacking play against an older side was really pleasing to see, especially when 16-year-old Dan Barton combined with 15-year-old Amaru Kuanda to score our fourth of the game. As the weeks go by, we look to try and gradually build up the players load each week and the following week brought another two fixtures. AFC Sudbury first team welcomed us on the Tuesday evening. Our most disappointing fixture of Pre Season in all honesty, as we struggled to play at our usual intensity both in and out of possession and after getting in front surrendered the lead late on, to draw the game 2-2. Although the boys were disappointed, they reacted brilliantly in their final game of preseason away to Colchester United FC and put on a really pleasing performance. The score

line finished 0-2 to the U’s with Kai Yearn and Faruq Usman with the goals. The only real criticism of the boys, was that we were wasteful in front of goal and a habit we don’t want to get used too. We want to create a diverse games program for our players in all ages, so they are equipped for different challenges at different times and have the skillset and frame of mind to be able to deal with whatever is thrown at them, and we are really pleased with how the boys have taken to pre-season, in particular our new first years – they have been terrific. All of the above ‘action’ as well as some having the opportunity to play and train with the 1st team has meant that the boys have had really thorough pre-season to deal with both mentally and physically and we hope this will give them a good framework to build on throughout the season. Lastly, we would like to welcome all the U’s fans back to the Abbey for the first game back in League one! Hopefully, you will see some home-grown talent play their part this season in what we hope is a side we can all be proud of. Everyone in the Academy wishes Mark, the staff and the Team all the very best! ■

Becks header v West Ham

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Women UPDATE Darren Marjoram:

New Management with Fresh Ideas

Darren Marjoram has become Cambridge United Women’s new manager. The former St Ives Town Ladies boss will bring a wealth of experience to the U’s and was recently named the Hunts FA Grassroots Coach of the Year. Ben Yeomans remains with the U’s as firstteam coach. “I am delighted to be joined Cambridge United Women at the start of what will hopefully by an exciting season,” said Marjoram. “It is a big challenge, but one I am relishing.” United Chair Vicky Hoover added, “We are absolutely delighted to have Darren with us. He is a well-respected and excellent coach. Darren and Ben have great chemistry and they will be a formidable duo going forward. Darren is here to win games, he is motivated and excited with the challenges ahead, and this has given everyone a boost. “Ben has led the team excellently over the last two seasons, and he will remain as a hugely important presence within the team and the club.” Leon Holden will remain as Development Team manager and he will be assisted by talented young coach Jack Rayner.

CAMBRIDGE UNITED F.C. V OXFORD UNITED

“After 2 seasons that have been affected by Covid and ultimately curtailed, we are all now hoping that we will see a full season of football in the Women’s National League. Planning for the coming season has been taking place ever since the last season was curtailed, and the trials and first few weeks of pre-season have gone well. “At the time of writing these notes, we are about to announce several new signings and importantly we have retained virtually all the First team squad from last season. The players have really hit the ground running in what is a relatively short pre-season this time around with the season due to start on Sun 15th August when we travel to Actonians. With lots of competition for places this season we certainly have a strong squad to go into that first game. “The first few weeks have been about ensuring players all have good minutes under their belt in the early pre-season games, but now as we get closer to the season start point, it is all about looking at selections ready for the first league game on August 15th. “Here is hoping for a full and successful season for everyone connected with Cambridge United.” ■

Upcoming First Team Fixtures: 15 August 2021 Actonians – Away 22 August 2021 Enfield Town - Home 29 August 2021 Harlow Town – Away 5 September 2021 Kent Football Utd – Home Both the First Team and Development Team play their home matches at St Neots Town FC on Sunday’s at 2pm. Come along and support the U’s Women!

Community Trust AstraZeneca Active Science

We’re delighted to welcome to today’s game representatives from AstraZeneca, the club’s Community Sponsor. Before the game, we will be showcasing ‘Active Science’ our award-winning primary school programme in partnership with AstraZeneca. This programme is part of AstraZeneca’s broader commitment to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) engagement within the region, with a focus on life sciences. AstraZeneca’s commitment to the Community Trust and this programme in particular is now passing into its fifth year and has engaged with more than 5,000 local school children in that time, enthusing them to understand more about science through the medium of sport and inspiring the next generation of scientists. By using sport and exercise as a tool for learning science in this exciting way, the programme has helped make science relevant and purposeful for young people. This is a programme which sees children running with parachutes (as you will see today) to highlight how forces work and encourages them to understand the effects of different exercises on their cardiovascular system with the use of heart rate monitors. Or in the words of one year 5: “Learning science is way more awesome than I thought.” With visits from AstraZeneca scientists, Active Science aims to dispel myths about scientists and encourage them to start thinking about a career in science. Over the pandemic, we have been intent on continuing to engage children in the programme virtually. Indeed 2,012 students across 14 schools received an Active Science

Competition winner Felix Day

virtual assembly which has meant children across our community still get the opportunity to see the links between science & sport. At the assembly, pupils were invited to take part in our competition and set the challenge of using their scientific knowledge to invent something that would revolutionise a particular sport. The winning entry saw a carbon neutral design created for Cambridge United’s new stadium “with a roof full of trees, plants, grass, and flowers.” An exciting proposal indeed! The winner, Felix Day, is in the crowd today. Congratulations Felix! ■

www.cambridge-united.co.uk

A BIG SEASON IN STORE VISIT THE NEW CAMBRIDGE UNITED STORE AT GRAND ARCADE

View from the Press Box Doug Shulman Here we are then, a first season back in the third tier of English football for Cambridge United since 2001/02, when their campaign began under the stewardship of John Beck – his second spell in charge at the Abbey. Many here today will not even recall that season, which I guess is a barometer of just how long the U’s have been away and how tumultuous that 19-year return has been at times. However, last season proved exceptional for Mark Bonner’s men, as they provided us all with some fantastic football throughout and, ultimately, the much-deserved prize of promotion. The pity of course, is that U’s fans were deprived of seeing the team play at the Abbey - barring a handful of games – so let’s hope they can put on a show or two as the new campaign begins, to welcome everyone back. Mark Johnson and I, as well as our colleagues in the press box, were very fortunate in being able to attend matches last year and, I have to say, I personally felt privileged to be able to witness and be involved in some memorable days, whilst bringing the live action to you all at home across the airwaves. It simply wasn’t the same being there without you, though, and this was brought into sharp focus with the 3,000 plus crowd at Harrison’s testimonial last Tuesday week, which sounded more like 5,000 at times! We’ll be visiting some grounds this season which we have not clapped eyes on in many years, with the trips to Sheffield Wednesday, Ipswich, Charlton and Sunderland, having no doubt been excitingly ringed in red in the diary. Mark Bonner will be mindful not to make the season a sight-seeing tour for his charges, though, as he looks to continue the upward curve of progression he has created. The journey certainly doesn’t stop here following last season’s success, so let’s hope we can all embrace, together, the nine months that lie ahead. Enjoy the ride! ■

“It simply wasn’t the same being there without you, though, and this was brought into sharp focus with the 3,000 plus crowd at Harrison’s testimonial last Tuesday week, which sounded more like 5,000 at times!” www.cambridge-united.co.uk

Giving Football Back to Small Business At eBay, we know small business and football clubs used to be like chips and gravy, two peas in a pod – a match made in community heaven. Ironmongers, ship workers, spring makers and cobblers, all formed clubs which decades later are still prospering. But nowadays, you’d think it was all eyewatering transfers, Super Leagues and mega sponsors, detached from the humble origins of our historic clubs.

That’s why eBay are proud to support 300,000 small businesses who help power EFL clubs nationwide. We’ll be donating our advertising space to a lot of these businesses – on match day hoardings, around grounds and beyond – throughout the coming season, to ensure they can continue to thrive in our local communities. So, join us in giving your support to Small Business Power, because today, they need us more than ever.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

2021 / 2022

Offi c i al C lu b Pa rtn e rs L I S T P ri m ary Partner s

S ec ondary Partner s

CFU Corner Ben Phillips & Andrew Stephen “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” Coretta Scott King It was a great thrill to be able to hold our AGM at last on July at the Supporters’ Club on July 26th. Although the attendance was disappointing, I think that we have to accept that it will take some time for many people to acquire the confidence to join any social gathering after the pandemic. It was the first time the event was filmed and soon we will all be able to see the results. It was particularly pleasing to see Ian Mather, Ben Strang and Mark Bonner present for a hugely interesting Q and A session. Their presence showed just how highly our wonderful fans are regarded by the club. We are very grateful to them. During the business part of the meeting several of our recent initiatives were mentioned including; Away Travel being taken on by CFU. Gina, in particular has put in many hours to make this possible. Ben has been the force behind the scheme to take photographs of Season Ticket holders with the promotion trophy. He has taken hundreds of pictures to the delight of many. This hasn’t been easy to arrange but it has been an excellent way of saying thank you to season ticket holders for their incredible loyalty. In conjunction with the club and the Community Trust, we are setting up a special area for fans with dementia and their carers. In addition, we plan a detailed audit of our crowd in order to assess which other needs there may be which we have yet to meet. Age, mobility, disability, autism and the need for support or extra provision will form part of a possible survey. We have supported a new Facebook group called the Amber Belles which will, amongst other things, provide a platform for female fans who haven’t always had much of a voice.

CAMBRIDGE UNITED F.C. V OXFORD UNITED

We have sponsored a football competition run by the Community Trust for BAME players and a season ticket for a recently bereaved fan with autism. We have supported the allotments group and been involved in organising a football tournament for the homeless. It is my intention that we work in harmony with the club, the Community Trust and with CUSP to provide a better experience for all our fans. These are just a few headlines of what we are doing in addition to our usual activities of the Lottery, Coconuts and representing our increasing membership. Covid hasn’t stopped us! Finally, congratulations to Dave Matthew Jones who has been re-elected as FED. As he said, “There is much to do.” More later. ■

HERE’S A ST AT I BET YOU DIDN’T KN W

OVER HALF A MILLION SKY BET CUSTOMERS USE DEPOSIT LIMITS TO MANAGE THEIR BETTING BUDGET. THAT’S ENOUGH TO FILL: 6 WEMBLEYS. 201 ALLY PALLYS. OR 8 CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP DAYS. (THAT’S A LOT OF TWEED)

ALL GOOD BOOKMAKERS HAVE DEPOSIT LIMITS. SO WHOEVER YOU BET WITH, SET AN APPROPRIATE ONE FOR YOU AND THEN ENJOY THE SPORT. DEPOSIT LIMITS

THAT’S BETTING BETTER.

Player Sponsors 1. Dimitar Mitov

2. George Williams

3. Jack Iredale

Sponsored by

PAUL MOWER

DAVE THORNHILL & PAT WHYMER

COLIN TAYLOR J C HOME DESIGN

STEVE BUCKLES

5. Greg Taylor

6. Lloyd Jones

7. James Brophy

8. Liam O’Neil

Sponsored by

WENDY TWINN

THE DEADLY DUO CARL BADCOCK & GRAHAM APPLETON

D C CARPETS LTD

WENDY TWINN

9. Joe Ironside

10. Sam Smith

11. Harrison Dunk

13. Kai McKenzie-Lyle

Sponsored by

HOCKEYS

WEST END LEASING LIMITED

COLIN TAYLOR J C HOME DESIGN

PAUL MOWER

14. Wes Hoolahan

16. Jensen Weir

17. Leon Davies

18. Shilow Tracey

Sponsored by

A & R HAULAGE (UK) LTD

4. Paul Digby

A & R CONTAINERS LTD

CAMBRIDGE UNITED F.C. V OXFORD UNITED

COVERSURE INSURANCE SERVICES (CAMBRIDGE)

Sponsored by

WENDY TWINN

TO SPONSOR A PLAYER FOR THE 2021/22 SEASON, PLEASE CONTACT COMMERCIAL@CAMBRIDGE-UNITED.CO.UK

19. Adam May

20. Andy Dallas

Sponsored by

25. Will Mannion

23. Jack Lankester

Sponsored by

CAMBRIDGE GAS SERVICES LTD

WENDY TWINN

SIMON LANKESTER

PAUL MOWER

26. Harvey Knibbs

27. Ben Worman

28. Liam Bennett

29. Tom Dickens

Sponsored by

A & R HOLDINGS (SUFFOLK) LTD

K J HUNT LTD

COLIN WARN LARNACA PRO CYCLE HIRE

Mark Bonner

Gary Waddock

Sponsored by

WENDY TWINN

Barry Corr Sponsored by

C B GROUNDWORKS

Sponsored by

A & R COMMERCIALS LTD

Sponsored by

DENNIS RAWLINGS

Mark Bunn Sponsored by

C B GROUNDWORKS

Gordon Millar Sponsored by

C B GROUNDWORKS

www.cambridge-united.co.uk

The Stat Pack Fixtures & Results LEAGUE TABLE P

Pts

21/22 Apps Lge Cups

21/22 Goals Lge Cups

21/22 Totals CUFC Career Apps Goals Apps Goals

AFC Wimbledon

Beckett

Harvey

Accrington Stanley

Bennett

Liam

Bolton Wanderers

Brophy

James

Dallas

Andrew

2 0

Burton Albion

Cambridge United

Davies

Leon

Dickens

Tom

Charlton Athletic

Digby

Paul

Crewe Alexandra

Dunk

Harrison

383

Hannant

Luke

Hoolahan

Wes

Iredale

Jack

Ironside

Joe

Doncaster Rovers

Fleetwood Town

10 Gillingham

PLAYERS

11 Ipswich Town

Jobe

Mamadou

12 Lincoln City

Jones

Lloyd

13 Milton Keynes Dons

Knibbs

Harvey

Knoyle

Kyle

14 Morecambe

Lankester

Jack

Adam

15 Oxford United

May

16 Harrogate Town

McKenzie-Lyle Kai

Mitov

Dimitar

Okedina

Jubril

O'Neil

Liam

122

17 Plymouth Argyle

18 Portsmouth

19 Rotherham United

Simper

Lewis

20 Sheffield Wednesday

Smith

Sam

Taylor

Greg

352

Tracey

Shilow

Weir

Jensen

21 Shrewsbury Town

22 Sunderland

23 Wigan Athletic

Williams

George

24 Wycombe Wanderers

Worman

Ben

CAMBRIDGE UNITED F.C. V OXFORD UNITED

FIXTURES DATE

OPPONENT

SUBS

GK SUB

AUGUST 2021 Sat 7th Oxford United

TUE 10TH Swindon Town (LC1)

SAT 14TH Accrington Stanley

TUE 17TH Plymouth Argyle

SAT 21ST Burton Albion

SAT 28TH Bolton Wanderers

SEPTEMBER 2021 SAT 4TH Doncaster Rovers

SAT 11TH Lincoln City

SAT 18TH Portsmouth

TUE 21ST Tottenham Hotspur U21 (EFLTG) H SAT 25TH Fleetwood Town

tue 28th Gillingham

october 2021 sat 2nd Crewe Alexandra

sat 9th Morecambe

sat16th Ipswich Town

tue 19th Sheffield Wednesday

sat 23rd Shrewsbury Town

sat 30th AFC Wimbledon

november 2021 sat 6th FA Cup 1st Round

tue 9th Stevenage (EFLTG)

sat 13th MK Dons

sat 20th Rotherham United

tue 23rd Wigan Athletic

sat 27th Sunderland

december 2021 tue 7th Cheltenham Town

sat 11th Charlton Athletic

sat 18th Rotherham United

sun 26th Wycombe Wanderers

wed 29th Doncaster Rovers

january 2021 sat 1st Portsmouth

sat 8th Bolton Wanderers

sat 15th Lincoln City

sat 22nd Crewe Alexandra

sat 29th Fleetwood Town

february 2021 sat 5th Wycombe Wanderers

tue 8th Gillingham

sat 12th Burton Albion

sat 19th Accrington Stanley

tue 22nd Plymouth Argyle

sat 26th Oxford United

march 2021 sat 5th Shrewsbury Town

sat 12th Sheffield Wednesday

sat 19th MK Dons

sat 26th AFC Wimbledon

april 2021 sat 2nd Ipswich Town

sat 9th Morecambe

fri 15th Wigan Athletic

mon 18th Charlton Athletic

sat 23rd Sunderland

sat 30th Cheltenham Town

*/**/*** Denotes substitutions # Match won on penalties P Penalty 1 Number of goals scored

www.cambridge-united.co.uk

Ticket Office Swindon

Carabao Cup • The Abbey Stadium • Tuesday 10th August 7:45pm It’s Round One of the Carabao Cup next for United as Swindon Town are the visitors on Tuesday 10th August 2021. Kick-Off is at 7:45pm and tickets are available now at the following prices: Advance Match Ticket Prices

Newmarket Rd North Habbin

Main Stand Family Enclosures

Main Stand Blocks B, E, F & AC 1, 2

Main Stand Blocks C & D

Adult

£18

£19

£22

£24

Concessions*

£14

£17

£20

Under 18

£8

£10

£18

Under 12

£5

N/A

Wheelchair Disabled

£15

AWAY DAYS:

Tickets are also now available for the first two away games of the season as long trips to Accrington Stanley and Plymouth Argyle await.

Accrington Stanley

Plymouth Argyle

• Adults: £20 • Concessions (+64): £15 • Students: £15 • 12-17 years: £10 • U12s: £5

• Adults: £20 • Over 65s: £16 • Under 23s: £12 • Under 18s: £7 • Under 12s: £5

Sky Bet League One • The Wham Stadium • Saturday 14th August 3pm

Sky Bet League One • Home Park • Tuesday 17th August 7:45pm

CFU’s Away Travel is also available to book now for both games. Visit CambridgeFansUnited.org to secure your seat.

CLICK here TO BUY YOUR TICKETS

HOW TO BUY:

Call 01223 566500 (Option 1) or by purchasing from the Abbey Stadium Ticket Office during our Opening Hours. www.cambridge-united.co.uk

Team Sheet Line-Ups & Officials Cambridge United

Oxford United

HEAD COACH: Mark Bonner Amber & Black

HEAD COACH: Karl Robinson Yellow & Black

DIMITAR MITOV 1

GEORGE WILLIAMS 2

JACK IREDALE 3 PAUL DIGBY 4

GREG TAYLOR 5

LLOYD JONES 6

JAMES BROPHY 7 LIAM O’NEIL 8

JOE IRONSIDE 9 SAM SMITH 10

HARRISON DUNK 11

KAI MCKENZIE-LYLE 13 WES HOOLAHAN 14

JUBRIL OKEDINA 15 JENSEN WEIR 16 LEON DAVIES 17

SHILOW TRACEY 18 ADAM MAY 19

ANDY DALLAS 20

JACK LANKESTER 23 WILL MANNION 25

HARVEY KNIBBS 26 BEN WORMAN 27

LIAM BENNETT 28

MAMADOU JOBE 30

1 SIMON EASTWOOD (GK) 2 SAM LONG

4 JORDAN THORNILEY 5 ELLIOTT MOORE

6 ALEX RODRIGUEZ GORRIN 7 RYAN WILLIAMS

8 CAMERON BRANNAGAN 9 MATTY TAYLOR 10 MARK SYKES

11 SAM WINNALL

13 JACK STEVENS (GK) 14 ANTHONY FORDE

15 JOHN MOUSINHO 16 LUKE MCNALLY 17 JAMES HENRY

18 MARCUS MCGUANE 19 DAN AGYEI

20 JAMIE HANSON 21 GAVIN WHYTE

22 JOEL COOPER 23 BILLY BODIN

27 NATHAN HOLLAND 29 DERICK OSEI YAW 42 STEVE SEDDON

Match Officials