Welcome to first every issue of The Boro Way. A Fanzine written and compiled by Stevenage fans......... for Stevenage fans.
Thankyou to everyone that has contributed to the first issue. We will really see this as a hub for all Stevenage fans to get involved with.
We plan to roll these out monthly and digitally so if you have something to shout about please contact us.
The best way to keeps these coming is to get involved.......
We hope you enjoy the read and would love your feedback. Jay and Reece.
Stevenage certainly have not been resting and admiring their sucess thus far this season Within the first two weeks of the window they have struck three deals to add to the squad. Jake Forster-Caskey has signed from Charlton on a permanent until the end of the season, largely a central midfielder but has played wider, JFC wants the ball to feet, holds large technical quality and a real desire to get shots off. Daryl Horgan was the second of the window joining on loan from Wycombe, a current Republic of Ireland international Horgan is industrial robust direct versatile attacking player with bags of experience Joe Tomkinson has joined also on loan from Norwich, primarily a centre back but comfortable in either full back position, Joe is a player chased from the summer and his natural strength and in game mature means he’s a great addition for much needed back line depth
Images -
Stevenage FC Stevenage have secured the futures of their management team for the future by securing Steve Evans for a further two seasons until the end of the 24/25 season. Steve Evans since replacing Paul Tisdale has won a staggering 28 matches in 44 games, losing just 8 and amassing a points per game rate of 2.07, better than anyone in the 92. Evans has turned around a club languishing in the lower regions of League Two and built a team that Stevenage fans can be proud of competing for titles. Which is an incredible feat given the club size and context Evans also took charge of one of Stevenage’s greatest ever games on January 8th as Stevenage beat Aston Villa at Villa Park writing himself into folklore With a title charge on the horizon I'm sure every Boro fan is incredibly excited to see what the future holds for Stevenage with Steve Evans, Paul Raynor and Alex Revell at the helm
In what will go down as one of the great moments in Stevenage history and FA Cup history, Stevenage stunned Villa Park with two late goals from Jamie Reid and Dean Campbell against Unai Emery’s Aston Villa was toppled in the FA Cup Third Round
Stevenage were not given a chance against Premier League Aston Villa, going well under Emery and the script was seemingly followed as Morgan Sansom scored a well put together move in the first half, Stevenage had a goal ruled out on VAR and had hit the bar
Stevenage fans were enjoying a battling performance, a performance to be proud of from everyone on the park, a great day out Stevenage however in the last 15 decided to throw out the script Pressing high, forcing chances, waiting for Villa to slip. Slip they did two minutes from time
An effective press from Jake Reeves and Dean Campbell saw Campbell win the ball drive into the penalty area before a shirt pull and trip saw a penalty given (eventually) and a red card for Dendoncker. Two minutes from time Jamie Reid Stepped up and scored sending the crowd into raptures Little did they know in the 90th, a short corner from Reeves found it’s way to Campbell in acres of space. He hit it low and hard and in it flew to send Stevenage into pandemonium They had caused one of the great upsets
After years of suffering, a very emotional Stevenage Fanbase serendaded the squad and it’s coaches in one of their greatest days
Live on Sky Sports this game was a typical occcasion of two very good teams cancelling eachother out Stevenage come out the traps flying largely forcing set pieces which created half chances. But overall Orient will probably be the team more disappointed after two golden Darren Pratley chances. Largely a game played in the middle of the park, good quality shown from both sides and both backlines deserved their clean sheet and point in the pocket in the top of the table battle
WhoScored Stevenage MOTM - Saxon Earley
A game dictated to by the weirdest circumstances with Crawley having Manager Matty Etherington resign the day before, Last minute replacement Darren Byfield and Chairman Preston Johnson took their place in the lamex dugout with a largely rotationed XI It would be silly to say Stevenages usual levels didn’t drop but that feels like human nature especially in a busy schedule Jordan Roberts, who could have had three, in the 10th minute gave Boro the lead after an electric run from the halfway line. The skipper doubled that lead just before halftime with a neat finish before scoring a typical Piergianni header from a fabulous Jake Reeves corner in the second half. A comfortable vic re as much physicality and energy than your standard League Two G WhoScored Stevenage MOTM - Jake Reeves
A real battle against a team battling for their lives, Stevenage had to show multiple sides to their performance against a Gills side who whilst awful in both boxes performed fairly well inbetween them. Stevenage had to show the ugly side, the physical side, the footballing side, the front foot side and everything inbetween Stevenage took that all important lead through a peach Carl Piergianni header after a peach of a Jake Reeves cross These ugly battle games are the games you have to overcome and battle through if you want to be promoted and Stevenage did that WhoScored Stevenage MOTM - Carl Piergianni
Stevenage travelled up north and faced the northern conditions of wind and rain to face the one side more direct than us. Playing the same team from Villa, Stevenage struggled to play football to counter the long ball style of Harrogate especially in the first half. The second half was much improved with a lot more flow to the performance, That led to an excellent turn and finish from Piergianni, his fourth goal in three games before Luke Arnstrong appeared at the back post to peg us back with their first chance of the hakf But the first half had warranted it So maybe a draw was about right A point is a point WhoScored Stevenage MOTM - Danny Rose
A huge title battle infront of a sold out Lamex. Stevenage have the opportunity to out do the one team that has outperformed them thus far Orient will have three of their first choice defence missing due to injury or suspension. A team that loves to get the ball wide, a high press is likely with big games expected from players like Luther James-Wildin and Max Clark. This game is not to be missed
Death, taxes, Swindon on a cold midweek? No easy opposition despite still being managerless after Scott Lindsey’s departure. Charlie Austin marked his return with a goal in the sides 5-0 victory over Grimsby. Stevenage will be coming up against a team that excel in ball retention. This is unlikely to be a beautiful performance, however if Stevenage do get a result expect a lot of “Typical Evans” “Typical Stevenage performances”.The midfields turnovers will be key with Swindon often waiting for spaces to appear rather than forcing the issue. Jordan Roberts ability on the counter can win Boro the game.
Ugly, grim, physical and almost impossible to enjoy playing against. No, not us. Sutton Away. Since getting promoted Matt Grays side have been incredibly effective and are constantly receiving praise for how much they get out of their squad. Going for the play offs expect a lot of Piergianni involvement, set pieces and a real test of mental resolve. With players like David Ajiboye, Craig Eastmond and Omar Bugiel expect a game where one switch off is punished. It'll be interesting to see how Stevenage approach and if they try play through the thirds or try to match Sutton especially away.
As their fans love to tell us Bradford shouldn’t be in this league but here they are with ex superstar and PL manager Mark Hughes Able to vary their formation up, a lot more effective in the market than they have before and have proven strikers in Vadaine Oliver and Andy Cook The centre of midfield is largely ineffective technically so the real key will be a deeper block than usual and try build up in wide areas That is how we created chances last time there and has been a weakness all season and a real thorn for Bradford Especially from Set Pieces Then again they have Andy Cook so they are guarenteed at least one surely
It’s Newport Away on a Tuesday It will be cold It will probably be raining. It will be horrible. They aren’t very good at anything in particular but Coughlan sides will always scrap you before they even begin to give up chances It will either be a statement victory or one of those days Whoever is going kudos
Leyton Orient will be missing Dan Happe through what looks like a lengthy injury with Omar Beckles and influential right back Tom James suspended after Red Cards. Leaving them without three of their preferred back four atleast for the Stevenage game. However they have been busy in the market signing loanee centre backs Ed Turns from Brighton and Jamie McCart from Rotherham
What their gaffer thinks of us (prepare yourself)
“I just think they have a certain style of playing which is to break the game up and counter-attack. If you don’t press their back players then they boom it into the box and it can become a problem.They are a very good team at defending their box and it’s just territory football. When we moved it quick we looked better but we just didn’t do it enough (in the home game)”
Paul Smyth with his direct running style and ability to go inside and outside of the full back makes him a nightmare to defend against. 9 goals this season and able to operate anywhere across the attacking four. Smyth is nearing on a hack for this level especially in a team like Orient who create their chances using the wide areas and half spaces
A team that likes the ball into feet, will be patient if necessary in midfield and across the back line but can offer real box to box energy and drive in transition especially with the likes of El Mizouni
A team who largely want to get it wide in the final third to their wide players (Usually Smyth and Archibald) who are the bums off seats players, will make space, create and push them further and further up the pitch
A fairly high line meaning if pressed high and effectively it can pin them back for a sustained period of time
Team by Patrick Jackson (@Rateus_Johanson)
Team by James Reid (@JamesReid261) Team by Kian Searle (@K_Searle04)
Team by Ryan Taylor @Reeves4Szn Team by Reece Donnelly (@ReeceDSport)
Team by Matt Farley (@FarleyGinge)
Stevenage are riding high, one of seven clubs in the 92 with less than five losses and no one has won as many games as them this season. But Why? Why can seemingly no team stop them? Two words..attacking versatility
The spread of touches across each third is radically different from any otherside near the top. The even spread of possession in each third and the variation in each approach per game is just something you will never see from a possession hungry Leyton Orient side for example.
Whilst there is a large principle of being fast and direct in attack and in creating chances this is rarely in the form of one outlet. One outlet is of course the long ball. But in other cases it’s about getting the ball into wide areas and distrusting the box. By using triangles and the interplay skills we have in midfield and the back four thanks to Sweeney this can open up the ability to play the ball into channel (Danny Rose’s goal against Colchester a great example) but sometimes the interplay can create spaces. Even when not having a lot of the ball in attacking spaces they have a real ability of counter pressing effectively and
with a clinical edge. Stevenage have the smallest between actual goals and their XG in the league.
Stevenage only allow their opponents 12 passes per defensive action which puts them among the best in the league.Which contributes to a league record of shots coming from turnovers from play. Even if they haven’t created shots they can create Set Piece situations which Stevenage have scored 8 goals this season from.
Effective at creating shots from short passing (Rose v Northampton)
Effective from wide areas (Norris v Sutton). Effective at creating chances from long balls (Rose v ColU) Effective at pressing (Reid v Barrow) Effective countering (Roberts v Swindon) and effective from set pieces (Piergianni). Stevenage have a full package and it makes them almost impossible to plan for or set up against. Even against Barrow, Jake Reeves was left in space to rifle one in from distance. Another threat. As was a short corner, seen for the first time at Villa. A threat PL Level analysts didn’t expect left a hugely technical player with a free shot on goal .
A multi faceted approach to games and attack means the back line too must be effective. Whilst our press largely ensures the long balls go towarda Piergianni, all three of the common backline are both comfortable on the ball and doing the dirty work dealing with strikers both high up the pitch and in a deeper block. Both in the 4 and the more commonly used 3. A real understanding of eachothers capabilities ensure the team as a whole can be more effective. It means it gives you more options with the ball (See Pic 1)
The squad building also needs to be given its credit. Stevenage have a variety of footballers comfortable in playing different ways. Max Clark and Saxon Earley for example offered two different types of left wing back and different threat. Jake Taylor offers more in a pressing sense than Gilbey does in midfield but Gilbey‘s ball carrying can be incredibly important depending on the side your facing. These players can compliment eachother and whichever play style effectively, a lot can adapt too (Roberts and Reeves largely) and that complimentary ability in a squad is incredibly rare.
To sum up, you have to out wit Steve Evans to even be able to lay a glove on Stevenage effectively. That isn’t going to happen often. No one is tactically ready to face Stevenage. Not even Aston Villa were!
“NO SIDE WILL EVER BE TACTICALLY READY TO FACE STEVENAGE IN 22/23. NOT EVEN ASTON
Rich Jolly @RichJolly
Dean Campbell post Aston Villa - Via Neil Metclafe/The Comet
Forster-Caskey Daryl Horgan Jonathan Tomkinson
With over a hundred appearances for Charlton and Brighton and appeared at every youth level possible with England, new signing Jake ForsterCaskey brings an incredible level of pedigree and winners mentality to the Stevenage midfield in what many would see as a coup
Largely a number 8 but has also performed wider in the past, JFC wants the ball to his feet, looks forward as much as possible, a real reader of the game Very similar to Jake Reeves (wouldn’t consider this necessarily a replacement)
Very direct, commits defensively and to the tackle and exceptional at set pieces.. Will get shots off and balls from deep largely. He will likely commit fouls fairly regularly try things that won’t come off but he won’t be a luxury player by any stretch Played well in both possession heavy and counter heavy systems. So fits the model for Evans well
A relationship already established with regular starter Gilbey, coming into his peak years, lot to prove off his injury and his younger potential and considers himself one of the best in league one never mind league two. As have others. Experienced a lot in different dressing rooms. One hell of an addition in theory for Stevenage
An incredibly experienced versatile attacking player having played for Preston and Wycombe in the Championship , Hibernian and the Republic of Ireland. Largely known for his role in direct sides, Horgan is somewhat of a coup
He is a challenger to Jordan Roberts and Horgan has somewhat similar attributes in the spaces he wants to pick up and the rate they create key passes The different aspect Horgan will bring is the runs in behind which was a large weapon behind McLeary. Turn and drive is very much the default option for Horgan even if the end product lacks.
The end product does lack and that can feed into a bit of predictability but if rotation is fair with a tiring Roberts or even a striker in a tougher away game then it isn’t too much of an issue. He lacks composure despite the old belter and will need to be loved and confidence re injected after a recent patch of poor form 100 percent effort, full on in the press and will create chances without necessarily needing the ball. Horgan brings much needed relief to that position for Stevenage
Jonathan Tomkinson having been chased in the summer, 20 years of age, 6ft 4 and has already appeared on numerous occasion for his parent club and he and Norwich turned down League One bids to come.
Tomkinson is strong, powerful and decisive in his defensive actions Largely a centre back but comfortable and has the attributes to perform in eirher of the full back spots. That deciveness is key especially when the in game approach can alter. He wants the ball and is comfortable in higher spaces with it and does so with a real maturity rare in youth footballs centre backs At 6ft 4 he is capable in the air and will be useful from set piece situations or had to cover the long ball bombardment our press forces to the left.
With a large level of versatility brings large comfort all over the pitch which means he will suit Steve Evans requirements rather than covering a specific situation His attributes also mean he can cover any of the three main centre backs which relieves a huge worry.
Jake Image Credits - Stevenage FCAt the risk of outing myself as a massive nerd (and who am I kidding, anyone who knows me of follows me on Twitter is well aware of that already) I think that Boro’s path from relegation fight to promotion push over the last twelve months is neatly summed up by the opening lines of the theme song from Star Trek: Enterprise: “It's been a long road. Gettin' from there to here. It's been a long time. But my time is finally near.”
(Thanks to www.twtd.co.uk for the generation of this table.)
Compare the tables today versus the table at the end of January in 2022. Back then we were labouring down in 17th on just 29 points from 28 games with a hideous goal difference of -14 thanks in large part to abysmal away form and worse was to come Contrast that with 52 points from just 25 games and a goal difference of +18 and it’s clear to see how far we’ve come, it’s been an inconceivable amount of progress from where we ended last season.
It feels forever ago that I was trudging to games expecting to be thoroughly disappointed for 90 minutes and to drag myself home again miserable. Back in the ‘21-’22 season there was a large period when I was attending out of a sense of duty more than anything (plus a little bit of FOMO and a large bit of being a stingy Yorkshireman who’d already paid for his tickets). Those feelings are long gone, the performance levels are unrecognisable and the atmosphere has turned on its head. Football at The Lamex is fun again! We’ve got our Boro back! Long may it continue.
Patrick Jackson (@Rateus Johansen)
The story of it never crossing the line, the Mackem Boro club and Boro’s cup magic
It is 25 years since a proportion of the world that had not heard of the Boro were suddenly awakened. Media from around the world descended on Broadhall Way as the mother of all hyped rows got them buzzing.
The occasion was an FA Cup Fourth Round tie between then Conference club Stevenage and Premier League giants Newcastle United
The Magpies had twice been Premier League runners-up in recent seasons and, just that autumn had beaten Barcelona 3-2 at St James' Park
When Kevin Keegan (Kenny Dalglish's predecessor at Toon boss) and John Toshack paired the sides in the draw, Keegan inadvertently sparked a major row with a casual, inadvertent slip
'You'll probably want to switch that to St James' Park, lads,' he said to Boro boss Paul Fairclough, chairman Victor Green and goal hero Giuliano Grazioli Boro had indeed switched a tie to St Andrew's a year earlier when they were drawn with Birmingham City. That was for financial reasons – a share of a bigger gate. But the FA were not happy. They wanted games switched only for safety reasons. And so it began.
Boro's players and even Cloughie expected the tie to go north. Green surprised his own camp by insisting it be staged at Boro. He had Sky TV on the hook for live coverage and further sponsorship from The Sun. Author Paul Fry spoke to Green, who now lives in Los Angeles and said he was not going to be pushed around by Newcastle. "They tried to bully us."
After Heysel and then Hillsborough, when Dalglish was with Liverpool, there is little doubt he was concerned about crowd safety. The Scot just didn't express it well and was pilloried for it - even by Jeremy Paxman on BBC TV's Newsnight, when he was asked: ' Are you just a big girl's blouse?'
As Fleet Street's finest fell on Stevenage, trying to outdo The Sun's coverage, which included special four-page wraps each day of the week leading up to the match, they all vied to get a piece of the Boro players ane even the officials.
The Times had a brilliant photo spread on the eve of the game, with the Boro players, all part-timers, in workwear and then football kit It helped demonstrate the gulf between £30,000-a-week Premier stars and lads who spent the week grafting, fitting their football in around the day job
Fairclough was meticulous in his preparations He had players fearing a 10-0 mauling on live TV But he got in a sports psychologist who later worked with Arsenal's Invincibles to help give the lads belief 'We saw they had ore to lose than us,' said striker Gary Crawshaw, who had a reporter follow him at work for a day, then go with him to training that evening
There should have been no concerns about safety. Boro's ground had a safety certificate; it was League 2 standard, even though the club were stopped from being promoted to the league two years earlier when they won the Conference because of an artificial deadline set by the Football League that effectively made it a closed shop. Newcastle would surely have not objected about going to Crewe, which had a similar capacity to Boro, 6,000
As for the temporary stand that Boro were getting in for away fans, it was the sort used at golf events and even the Royal Tattoo at Edinburgh It was all overblown, for reasons Paul Fry discusses in his new book, 'We Only Lost 1-1', out now on Amazon
Yet beyond the hype and rows, this is is a football story: of how a team of parttimers took on a team of eight full internationals, including the England captain, played them over 180 minutes and lost only to a goal that was
cleared off the line and would not have stood if goal line tech was in place back then..
Boro could and should have won at home after conceding to a Shearer header after just 152 seconds that left every Stevenage fan, official and player fearing the worst. Boro were the better side at home. They played without fear. They used tactics that were 20 years ahead of their time. They used preparations that are now normal for top clubs. It was all so different back then.
The players revisit those days with pride and joy. Steve Perkins, a teacher, describes how he was a reluctant Boro recruit and came to love everything about the club and was gutted when they let him go - to join Woking.
Des Gallagher reveals to story of wearing his wife's frilly vest under his shirt for good luck, how he doubled for David Seaman in a TV ad - and got banned after a drunken, naked football match streak.
Mark Smith says he believes Shearer's header in the replay that he cleared with an overhead kick did not cross the line. And yet... he doesn't like VAR and would rather have the arguments in the bar afterwards. James Dillnutt, who was just out of school, talks about he thought it was normal to play Premier stars when you pulled on a Boro shirt - two of his first six games were against Newcastle Gary Crawshaw reveals how people still ask if he was the guy who scored up at St James' Park for Boro. Fairclough talks about the pain of losing his job at Boro just months after the saga, of having cried tears for the club, and how the Newcastle games will live with him until the day he dies
Clive Abrey, the commercial manager, tells of how he haggled for deals as Boro sought to cash in, such as getting the pukka Slaley Hall Hotel in Hexham to provide a base at Travelodge prices. And how Sunderland fans snapped up Boro shirts to wind up their Geordie neighbours.
There's Boro legend Jim Briscoe and his A-team, who got the stage in perfect shape for the big occasion
But of all the tales in the book, the first dedicated to Stevenage football, it is the fans' tales that say so much.
If you doubted the capacity of football to bring people together, there is the love story of a Boro steward and a Geordie fan who only met later on a holiday in Portugal
There are tales of schoolkids bunking lessons to buy their tickets – while their teacher missed out; fans watching the games from exotic parts of the world, spreading the Boro gospel and winning over new fans.
The book ends with the tales of Boro's later Cup exploits: beating Newcastle in 2011, holding Spurs a year later and briefly leading in the replay at White Hart Lane.
And of course there is a chapter on the 2023 win at Villa that has raised the bar for the club in terms of Cup exploits
A new generation of players, a new generation of fans. A new chapter in the club's incredible story after two failed enterprises in eight years and rise, phoenix-like since 1976. 'That's not even 50 years and there are many more stories to tell,' says Paul 'I hope to add to them in time - starting with this year's project, 50 Boro Greats '
Everyone will have an opinion. If you want to chip in your top 10, email paulmarkfry@gmail.com and watch out for an online poll soon to help us whittle down the list.
Meanwhile, head to Amazon for your copy of the book (£19.99) or download a Kindle version (£8.99 - and FREE if you have Kindle Unlimited).
Most clubs have had books written about them. Now Stevenage FC has one. Kick off your collection with this volume. Or buy one and give it to the Boro fan in your life for their birthday.
Hi Stevenage fans, it’s Lewis here - or some of you may know me as “@TheBroadhallWay”. Hope you’re all keeping well and have recovered those voices from Villa Park for another huge match day! Here’s our Q&A feature for TBW Fanzine Issue 1…
What’s @TheBroadhallWay?
We’re a supporters platform that creates nostalgic items and casual wear for Stevenage supporters, whilst recognising Boro’s great history and raising charitable proceeds too! You might have us seen this year hosting a Pop-Up Shop in The Broadhall Suite Check us out @TheBroadhallWay on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
What made you start/create The Broadhall Way?
Football Fashion! We’d seen other clubs create cool pieces and products, creating a different community culture to showcase the club you support and love. It all started with many clubs offering a retro shirt in the style of a casual cotton jersey, similar to brands like Scoredraw and Toffs, but those big companies would never think of a small fan base like Stevenage, that’s where we come in! Would Top Trumps ever consider Stevenage? For us it’s an incredibly joyful hobby to create these things for the club we love, and create happiness amongst others too
Favourite Boro kit?
How can I pick just one!? Boro’s 1996 Home Shirt clearly stands out as the iconic recognisable Stevenage. It’s probably my favourite but do hold a few early 90’s Spall and Robey Shirts in the treasure box I feel extremely lucky to have. My quest does go on to search for that perfect Diadora Propak shirt though!
Favourite Boro game?
FA Trophy Final in 2007 against Kiddy was an incredible experience, did you know Stevenage were the first side to win at the new Wembley? To win in that manner was very special, what a comeback! Another game was also against Kiddy, was you there back in 2010 when we secured promotion to the football league? That might be the only game I’ve shed a tear but don’t tell anyone! But let’s talk about that Sunday at Villa Park, that really was the greatest match day experience I’ve ever had I can’t add anymore, completely lost for words!
Favourite Boro player ever & now?
Lawrie Wilson. His passion, commitment and effort every game sold me. Attitude before ability. Jordan Roberts. Is there anything he can’t do?
Worst Boro player ever?
Junior Lewis That is all
Who's more annoying, Mick Hucknell, Bono or Ed Sheeran? - show you’re working out Bono. Simply because of that deal with Apple to install that awful album on everyone’s iPhones back 2014. Do you know how many memories I had to delete from my phone for that bloody storage. Unforgivable.
What is your greatest Boro XI?
Only those I’ve been able to witness: Day, Wilson, Robbo, Henry, Laird, Bozzie, Boyd, Freeman, Chair, Elding, Morison.
Favourite Boro Moment?
I’ve already mentioned a few games but as a personal Boro Moment, featuring in the Supporters XI V Legends XI for The Martin Gittings Memorial Game. An incredible experience to play against some former Boro players with my mates, but to also recognise a Stevenage great and raise funds towards MSA and Martin’s funeral from the sale of the shirts worn by Legends XI designed by us was very special. To know @TheBroadhallWay can make some kind of positive difference brings myself such pride and joy!
Thanks for reading TBW Fanzine and up the Boro!
Image Credits - @PJPhotography FB
“The greatest night I’ve experienced as a Stevenage FC supporter”. Quite a statement? It is indeed, but as a Boro fan for 20 years I can hand on heart admit that when Dean Campbell struck the winner in the 90th minute at Villa Park, that moment was the greatest moment I’ve ever experienced watching Stevenage FC. Why? As we all know the past 3-4 years has been a tough ride. Relegation favourites with some of the worst form in League Two and at one point we had more managers than wins in a season. The turn around has been extraordinary, from 24th place to 2nd place in a matter of 67 months, boasting the best home form in League Two and experiencing countless last mins and ute goals to add to the euphoria. That moment at Villa Park typifies the turn around we’ve had as a club and that’s why it’s the greatest moment I’ve seen so far. Promotion in this new era would be the achievement I’d be most proud of as a fan of Stevenage FC, but we will never ever forget that special evening in Birmingham on the 8th January 2023. A night of elation, a night of pure joy and emotion, a night for the history books.
Stevenage FC support and Stevenage FC Podcast Host Matt Farley
Tuesday 24th January - 7:45 KO - Swindon Town FC, The Energy Check County Ground (SN1 2ED)
Capacity of 15,547 (Initial away allocation of 1200 Thank you to AwayGames.co.uk and Swindon Town for the information
Distance and Timings - Car Distance from the Lamex is roughly 102 miles taking you just under 2 hours not including rush hour. If you are travelling from the East and West you are leaving the M4 at Junction 15. If you are travelling from the midlands.Take the M40 to Junction 9. Then take the A43, A34 and then the A420 into Swindon.
Train would not be recommended with pricing from Stevenage 73 pound return. There are however three east trains back to Paddington at 22:03, 22:19 and 22:42. The journey to and back includes two stops each way and takes on estimate two hours. The stadium is 20 minutes away from the station
The SA Coach is running. Departs the Lamex at 4 but there is a strict meet time of 3:30. Members pay 20 whilst non members pay 25
Parking - Limited parking at the stadium for £10, £5 at Swindon Cricket Club or St Joseph’s Catholic College, Street Parking available also
Prices in and around the ground - Pies - £3.50, Coffee £2.10, Pint £3.50, Programme £3.50
Would you Recommend Eating in the ground? No (Reece Donnelly)
Our Record at the County Ground - P9 W1 D1 L7
Our scorers at the County ground - Solomon, Grazioli, Andrade, Newton, Martin, Cuthbert, Reid
Stand - Away fans visiting the Energy Check County Ground are located in the Arkell’s Stand, with a typical allocation of around 1,200 on the corner. For larger away followings, the Stratton Bank Stand can be allocated behind the goal. which holds 2,100.
Is Alcohol on Sale in the ground? - In the Arkell stand only
Away Pubs/Pubs that’ll let us in - (Some may ask for colours to be hidden before entry) Lounge 71, is at the stadium and is a designated bar for Away Fans open a few hours before Kick Off. The County Cricket Club would be open is nearby but isn’t open on a Tuesday and the Merlin (Greene King Pub, 7 minutes away, 4/5 starts on Trip Advisor) has been open to away fans in the past with plenty more options in the town centre. It is worth checking before you travel to one.
Places to eat near the ground - There is a brilliant burger bar located within the main car park, while there is a Burger King and a Fish & Chips shop just across the road from the ground
Tickets - Can be purchased on the day with no increase. Can collect or purchase from the Stevenage FC Club Shop until midday on Tuesday 24th January. They are £25 for an Adult, £20 for a concession (Over 60’s and Disabled), £10 for under 18’s, £3 for any under 11s and free for any cater with a concession.Club Shop is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays 10am5pm. Any ticket worries should be directed to Retail and Ticketing Manager Molly Bryant (mollyb@stevenagefc.com) Tel Ext 72
Sunday 29th January - 2pm KO - Stoke CityBet365 Stadium (The Brittania) - ST4 4EG.
Capacity of 30,089 (Initial away allocation of 4k)
Thank you to AwayGames.co.uk and Stoke City for the information
Our Record at the Bet365 - P1, W0, D0, L1
Lost the 2005 Conference National Play off Final here to Carlisle. The only other final we played at a neutral non Wembley ground was Villa Park. Losing to Yeovil in the FA Trophy in 2002. One set of revenage done
Last lineup at this stadium - Julian, Warner, Goodlife (C), Laker, Henry, Bulman, Gregory, Brady, Maamria, Elding, Stamp
Stand - Away fans visiting the Bet365 Stadium are located behind the goal on one side of the Marston’s Pedigree Stand Just next to the tunne
Is Alcohol on Sale in the ground? - Yes Multiple beers, ciders, wines and spirits
Distance and Timings -
- Car Distance from the Lamex is 147 miles taking you 2 and a half hours on estimate not including rush hour. If you are coming from North, South or West you will leave the M6 at junction 15, whilst if your coming from East, Take the A50 to Stoke-on-Trent. Exit at the final slip road on the A50 with the stadium on the left.
Train due to engineering works are nigh on impossible. If you are travelling from the station, there is two Mile distance between the station and the BET365.
The SA Coach is running. Departs the Lamex at 8 but there is a strict meet time of 7:30. Members pay 25 whilst non members pay 30
Parking - There is limited parking available on the day at the Bet365 Stadium, with the South Car Park on Sir Stanley Matthews Way available on a first come first served There are also a number of paid car parks further away from the ground, such as the Power League Complex (4 50, 0 3km away), Heron Cross School (2 50, 1km away), Longton Rugby Club (5, 1 6km away) and Screwdfix Direct (4, 3 4km)
Limited street parking within walking distance of the stadium Such as Grove Road (15 minutes) or Glebe Street (5 minute shuttle bus for £3)
Prices in and around the ground - Pies - £3 20, Coffee £2 30, Pint £3 60, Programme £3 50
Would you Recommend Eating in the ground? Good selection of Pies, Pasties and Burgers (SportsWhereIAm con
Away Pubs/Pubs that’ll let us in - Power League Sports Club and the Trentham Lakes Harvester are the nearest to the stadium that accept away fans but Lowton Rugby Club, The Plough, The Gardeners Retreat, The Terrace and The Poachers Cottage is also avaliable to fans who don’t mind venturing out. Supporters who fancy something different could venture down to the canal and drive the Boatcake – which predictably offers oatcakes – or Bargain Inn Booze that offers beer or lager priced around £2.
Places to eat near the ground - Bar Pub Grub, extremely limited
Tickets - 4000. Allocation with over 2,250 gone at time of writing. No collections at Stoke nor is there any sales at their request. Tickets are £12.50 per adult, U18/65+ £5 and U11s are £1, Disabled Supporters get a ticket for their age range and get a carer free of charge The Postal Delivery Option has passed Club Shop is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays 10am-5pm. Any ticket worries should be directed to Retail and Ticketing Manager Molly Bryant (mollyb@stevenagefc.com)
Capacity of 5,032 (Initial Away allocation of 500)
Thank you to AwayGames.co.uk and Sutton United for the information
Distance and Timings - Car Distance from the Lamex is 66.2 miles taking you 1 and a half hours on estimate. Emission costs in London apply also. Travel along the M25 to junction 8. Then north on the A217 for about 15-20 minutes. Stay on the A217 to the traffic lights with the Cheam Road (A232) and turn right toward Sutton.
Trains are set to run well at the moment. It is recommended that visiting supporters use Sutton station, which is on the main lines out of Victoria and London Bridge and is at the top end of Sutton High Street, about 20 minutes’ walk from the ground. West Sutton railway station is adjacent to the ground. From Stevenage it is a simple journey with trains often leaving St Pancs. The journey costs roughly £20
The SA Coach is running. Departs the Lamex at 12 but there is a strict meet time of 11:30. Members pay 20 whilst non members pay 25
Parking - On street parking is available on side streets surrounding the stadium, although some parking restrictions are in place Alternatively Gibson Road Multi storey is a 10-15 minute walk away for a price of £4.50
Prices in and around the ground - Pies 2 50, Club Bar Pint £3 50, Coffee £1 and Programme £3
Would you Recommend Eating in the ground? Typical Burger Van Style, so depends what your looking for (Reece Donnelly?
Our Record at the VBS - P2, W0, D0, L1, Lost on pens 1
Our scorers at the VBS - List
Stand - Away fans visiting the Borough Sports Ground are located in the Collingwood Road End. Standing is behind the goal. Seating is just to the side on the corner. You can walk between the two Is Alcohol on Sale in the ground? - No.Club bars before and after games only
Away Pubs/Pubs that’ll let us in - The Gander Green Social Club at the stadium allows away fans. As does the Gander Inn, The Moon on the Hill and All Bar One. The Old Bank opposite West Sutton station proved a fan favourite on our previous league visit
Places to eat near the ground - There are a number of Chicken Shops including a KFC aim the high street where there is also a Taco Bell. The high street is about 15 minutes walk from the stadium. Also containing a Nando’s, Pizza Express and many more. There is also a highly rated Chip Shop named Sutton and Sons near the ground and The Old Bank Pub also do food.
Be Warned- When you arrive you will have to walk around the stadium on the left through a rather large field. It can feel like a rather long walk
Tickets - Match tickets are available only online at tickets suttonunited net at the following prices in order of Adult, 60+, 12-18 and under 12s Standing £20, £14, £6, Free with a paying adult Seating £25,£19,£11, £5 with a paying adult Carers go free Match tickets are also available to purchase on the day from the stadium at an increase of £2 Club Shop is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays 10am-5pm Any ticket worries should be directed to Retail and Ticketing Manager Molly Bryant (mollyb@stevenagefc com) Tel Ext 72
Tuesday 14th February - 7:45 KO - Newport County - Rodney Parade - NP19 0UU
Capacity of 7,850 (Initial Away allocation of 590)
Thank you to AwayGames.co.uk and Newport County for the information
Distance and Timings - Car Distance from the Lamex is 160.5 miles taking you 3and a half hours on estimate without rush out traffic. Must consider Toll Costs. If you are coming from North of East Leave the M4 at Junction 24 (or from the A449 from Monmouth/Midlands) and take the B4237, signposted Newport (E). If you are coming from West, Leave the M4 at Junction 26 and take the A4051 towards Newport.
Trains - If you are coming from Stevenage. Do not bother. Trust us. If for whatever reason you are in the train the stadium is a 10-15 minute walk from the station
The SA Coach is running. Departs the Lamex at 3 but there is a strict meet time of 2:30. Members pay 25 whilst non members pay 30
Parking - There is no parking at the stadium itself, so fans are encouraged to park at the local shopping centre (Kingway) or at the NCP (Newport High Street) just over the bridge from the stadium. Otherwise, street parking is the only option but be careful about the residents only parking scheme in operation.
Prices in and around the ground - Pie £2.80, Coffee £1.50, Pint £3.50, Programme £3
Would you Recommend Eating in the ground? The Food is largely good football food and caters to everyone.
Our Record at Rodney Parade - P1, W0, D0, L1
Our Scorers at Rodney Parade - Akinyemi, Hughes, OG, Pett, Whelpdale, James-Wildin, Sonupe
Stand - Away fans visiting Rodney Parade are located in the Bisley Stand, with a typical allocation of just under 600. Just in the corner but some clubs are allowed to use the South End also. Stevenage have been given access to both.
Is Alcohol on Sale in the ground? - Yes
Away Pubs/Pubs that’ll let us in - The Newport Cou ty Clubhouse is largely accommodating to away fans But The Godfrey Morgan, Excelsior Club, Queens Hotel and The John Wallace Linton also let away fans in and largely are not massive distances from the ground
Places to eat near the ground - Newport retail centre has everything you could imagine including Nandos and Subway. There is also a lot of pizza shops around Newport
Tickets - Avaliable now with the prices seen here Carers go free Online sales stop on the 7th Feb. Match tickets can be purchased with CASH ONLY on the day. Club Shop is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays 10am-5pm. Any ticket worries should be directed to Retail and Ticketing Manager Molly Bryant (mollyb@stevenagefc com) Tel Ext 72
Image Credits - Edward Payne
Fadi Mazloums Stevenage Ladies for the eighth year running are through to the Herts County Cup final after a win on penalties against Rishi Sodha’s Stevenage FC Development side. Happy Stevenage edged that one! The winning penalty scored by Hannah Nesbitt. Stevenage remain Third in the Premier Division.Just two points off the top
Stevenage FC Women 1-1 Stevenage FC Women Development (8-7 on penalties)
Scorers - Amy Makewell, Ciara Purdue
Lineup SFCW - O Brien, Farmer, Swarres, Webster, Neal, Price, Makewell, Greenwood, Bellinger, Nebbitt, Schofield Subs - Shepard, Sibanda,Uwaifo
Lineup SFCW Devs - Oldroyd, Lightning, Carter, Brooks, Jones, White, Cooper Poulter, Purdue, Fidler,Clarke Subs - Reeves, Craig, Mercer, Hendy, O Keefe
Matchday sponsor Stuart Rowe’s MOTM - Erin Price (Sponsered by David Gray)
Coming up next is a Q and A Ladies Captain Logo ucy Webster recently had with Edward Payne in the most recent digital ladies programme. Thank you to Ed for passing it on to us to use and enjoy the read !
This season in Youth Alliance, Stevenage U18's form is getting better overall with 6 wins, 3 draws, and 5 losses. This performance currently places Stevenage U18 at 5th in the South East Youth Alliance Table, winning 43% of matches. Stevenage U18's home form is good with the following results : 4 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses. And their away form is considered average, as a result of 2 wins, 1 draws, and 3 losses Stevenage U18 has scored a total of 27 goals this season in Youth Alliance.
Stevenage have a history of doing well in this competition but sadly got edged out this year coming up against an excellent Cambridge side getting beaten by 4 goals to 2 at the Abbey with Jake Watkiss and Kymani Skyers scoring.With three players born in 2006 and another four born in 2005, Professional Development Phase coach Ronnie Henry had named an incredibly young side for the game
Lineup - Sakalas, Cochrane (c), Gilzean, Watkiss, Tinibu, Giroud, Hicks, Champness, Tekasala, Alexandrou, Skyers
Subs - Watkiss, Stanley, Bates, O’Keefe, Salik, Oldiran, Evans
In a hotly contested game the Under 18s competed against a first team Hitchin Side in the Herts Senior Cup Highly spirited and really unlucky not to score after a Sam Tinibu chance was cleared off the line The boys got Edged out by a Hitchin Penalty. The game got fiery with Giroud and coach (and legend) Ronnie Henry seeing red.
The starting XI for the Herts Senior Cup Quarter Final vs HitchinMitchell,Tekasala,Cochrane, Ogwuazor, Watkiss, Giroud, Mosanya, Tinubu, Hicks,Pitts-Lewis, Alexandrou
Subs: Evans, Bailey, Gilbert, Champness
Alfie Williams
Royston Town
Mackye Townsend-West Royston Town
Owen Cochrane
Potters Bar Town
Jack Smith Dartford Town
Can be found on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Managed by
Saint Evenage is a Sunday League team that me and a lot of Boro fans created just under 2 years ago to enter into the Hitchin Sunday League. Over the Covid Restriction period we organised a few charity games before we kept pointing out we should do something with this Then one bored evening me and the chairman just got to work and we never looked back. There has been a lot of learning for everyone especially me as manager and a lot of highs and lows but we have a great bunch of lads. 90 percent are Boro fans which is awesome and we’re fighting for eachother every weekend What more could you want?
Not too bad. As mentioned before it has its highs and lows. We are definitely in a different place to where we was when we started, got people working harder and trying ti make this a success. I too have added amother coach to my touchline staff with me and my assistant , after he had large experince in academies. We are more than involved for the fight for the play offs and that would be a great sign of the work we have put in.
We beat a David James Funded Feed Up Warm Up side at Shephalbury Park and won thanks to a tap in on the back post from Keith Bell, a sensational team move finished off by Sam Swain anda nifty Liam Beard finish at the near post. The lineup for this game is on the second picture
Coming up next
We face an Inter Malone side Sunday 22nd at Ransoms Rec, Hitchin for a George John Cup Quarter final. For fixture details past this please pay attention to clib socials. it would be great to have some more supporters
If you want a shoutout for your Boro Supporting son after he scored or if he was celebrating like his hero Luke Norris, or a team in Stevenage that wants their monthly mention. We want to hear from you. Contact us for your Stevenage Grassroots shoutout. With any luck this will be more of a Stevenage Grassroots newsletter section before long
Reece Donnelly
The past two months have been a busy period for the Stevenage FC Supporters Association as not only have we had busy league trips to organise, but we have had one of the busiest away trips that I’ve personally had input in organising
Before I go any further, I want to put the spotlight on an unsung hero within not only the SA the club overall! He has been organising away travel for Stevenage fans for the last 20+ years and has put coaches on for many small and big games over the years from Newcastle away in 98’, to the many Wembley trips and of course most recently Aston Villa in the FA Cup!
That hero is John Carroll! He is an instrumental figure and the reason that Stevenage FC always has away travel for both SA Members and non-members alike. A lot of time goes into organising away travel for the league fixtures,which let alone any additional games that get added throughout the year from the different competitions and without him, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do today.
Over the past 2-3 seasons, whilst I’ve had the pleasure of both helping John out and stepping in for him, when he’s been unavailable, without his guidance and knowledge coach travel wouldn’t run.
Let me give an example of the time and effort that goes into organising the likes of Aston Villa, and of course what’s currently going on as I write this article for Stoke City on 29th Jan.
Tue 29th Nov - Following the 3 - 0 win at Kings Lynn and Stevenage being drawn away to Aston Villa, John and I start preparations for the away travel with John working with the coach companies to make sure they can fulfil between 10-12 coaches and provisionally booked them, whilst I made sure that all the online infrastructure is created and ready for when we have all the information.
This is just an example of the time and effort that goes into the coach travel for Stevenage fans and is all done within our spare time between our day jobs!
Moving onto what's coming up next for the SFCSA we have two away games, firstly we have Swindon away on Tue 24th Jan, followed up with Stevenage’s FA Cup Fourth round tie vs Stoke City on Sunday 29th Jan 2023. Booking for both games can be done online at sfcsa.co.uk/away-travel/.
For Stoke, places are filling up quickly so fans wishing to book a place on the coach can do so by booking online at the prices of £25 for Members & £30 for Non-Members and booking for this trip is ONLINE-ONLY.
Please note; If fans wish to be on the same coach as family and friends, it’s recommended that you book your coach travel together!
This is just a spotlight on just one of the areas that the SFCSA focus on and I plan to share more as the season progresses!
Thanks for reading Andrew Mugridge
SFCSA Secretary & Membership Administrator10th - 15th Dec - Discussions with the club regarding ticketing and coach prices.Booking for Villa coach travel is then opened online.
17th - 27th Dec - Focus briefly switches to Leyton Orient away and we fill two coaches.
28th - 31st - Daily calls between myself & John to make sure we have enough coaches with the current demand level. (8 coaches full at this time)
3rd Jan - 12 coaches are sold out! - Sorting out of the 12 coaches e.g. coach sizes, making sure each coach has a steward, and each coach has the exact numbers.
4th Jan - Confirmation emails sent out to the +650 fans on the coaches with meeting points and departure times etc.
5th - 7th Jan - last-minute conversations between the club, John, stewards and myself making sure everyone has all the information.
8th Jan - MATCH DAY!! Slight problems with the car park at Fairlands gate, but through teamwork and fantastic support from fans we made it work and departed from The Lamex at 12 pm (albeit soaking wet).
9th Jan - No rest, as preparations for Stoke start and we’re ready to do it all over again!
For more information on the great work that the SA does please head to https://sfcsa.co.uk/
As the gaffer signs on for two more years, Nick Kelsall speaks about the larger than life manager and why he can be considered an heir to Graham Westley.
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When Phil Wallac nage manager in March 2022, few would wash over the club. Out wen ent force of nature in the high ans, you are in for one hell of a r
Evans teams are more passion off it, his reputation age fans could not have predicte ear in and the Scot feels like one
From his charism sily nestled in his office at Bradbur eeting potential signings and turn He seems to have a contact bo opponent or chairman appare y p mes amusing, is a sign of the highly beneficial networking capabilities of our manager. He has true clout in the lower leagues, and even above, and can reel off the contact details of all the need-to-knows at clubs up and down the land. This is a vital asset for a club on the small side such as Stevenage, where a twisted arm here or a favour called in there can nail down a potential loan signing or free transfer.
It feels as though Evans has put Stevenage FC on the map. His in-depth September interview in The Guardian no less was a feather in the cap of this burgeoning club. Gone are the days when a paragraph or two in The Comet would suffice as publicity, The Boro are now in the National papers. Stevenage were also live on Sky with the top of the table clash against Leyton Orient chosen for television. Danny Rose’s impudent November strike versus Hartlepool also featured heavily on Sky Sports News. When was the last time the club had such positive and surprisingly mainstream publicity? It is surely no mere coincidence that this exposure has been cultivated under Evan’s tenure. Our manager has confidence and charisma by the bucketload
ScreengrabBBC SportHaving riled promotion rivals Leyton Orient with a solid 0-0 away draw in December, Boro fans rejoiced in antagonising Orient fans who were particularly precious over what they perceived as Stevenage’s backs against the wall display. This drew parallels with the 2008-12 glory days of drinks breaks and a team full of 6’2” skin heads. How glorious it is to be hated again!
On current form, Boro look sure-fire promotion candidates. Yet even if the club are unable to make an assent into League One, Evans will still have achieved so very much He has won back the hearts and minds of this loyal, hardy bunch of supporters. With a tight knit squad of around 20, Stevenage have great team spirit and camaraderie this season. The dark days of 2019/20 where reports of squad unrest were rife and rumours of a lack of professionalism on the training ground permeated feel like ancient history. Evans, along with assistant Paul Raynor and the evergreen “Club Man” Alex Revell have this squad driven and united. For the first time since perhaps 2014/15 and Graham Westley’s last play-off tilt, Stevenage are a true force to be reckoned with
Having mentioned The Messiah, it is perhaps only natural to compare the great Westley to our current gaffer. Evans certainly has a touch more approachability, his wily Scottish wit a natural charm for journalists and fans alike. Whilst dear Graham had his greatest successes in non-league and in League Two with virtually the same squad, Evans is working with a higher calibre of players Pillars of League Two defences for years, Dan Sweeney and Carl Piergianni form two defensive totems and adopt very much an attitude of “thou shalt not pass”. Forwards Danny Rose and Luke Norris have had plentiful success at League One Level, and Jake Taylor (full Welsh international no less) was an established Championship player. Loanee Alex Gilbey has barely set foot below League One level, again demonstrating Evan’s allure Graham Westley was forced to develop non-league rough diamonds with players like Roberts, Ashton, Wilson and Bostwick moulding into superb League Two and then League One performers. So while Evans has made tremendous progress at the club so far, his achievements are still a little way off those of our most successful custodian. What better motivation for the Scot than to seal promotion this season and truly cement his status as our greatest ever manager.
The feel good factor at the club is reflected in the recent attendances No longer do Stevenage have one man and his dog watching home games, as gates of 3,700+ have flooded into The Lamex recently. Compared to last season’s paltry average of 2,800 this still modest turn out is a great improvement. If fans continue to vote with their feet then who knows perhaps we can reach the heady heights of 4,000 attendances, a tally barely even reached in the successful League One days
Whilst promotion to League One still lies a way off and there are certain to be plenty of hurdles ahead, we are definitely well placed to really attack the automatic promotion spots.
One thing for sure is that I am proud to sing “We’ve got Super Stevie Evans!”
Screengrab - BBC SportThank you so much for reading and thank you so much for those that contributed. All likes, shares and feedback made via our socials (Twitter and FB) is appreciated and we will see you next month for another edition of The Boro Way Fanzine
