Stevenage FC v Leyton Orient FC

THE MANAGER STEVE EVANS

All photos by Jim Steele unless otherwise stated

“It will be a great atmosphere for the players”

CHAIRMAN PHIL WALLACE

Good afternoon and welcome to the players and officials of Leyton Orient…

It’s been a while since my last programme notes, but what a way to welcome in 2023. Second in the league and beating a Premier League team on their own patch to progress to the Fourth Round of the FA Cup. It really has been an amazing first half of the season and the challenge now is to forget all that and do it all again in the second half.

To this end, Steve and his management team, Leon and myself are carefully picking our way through the options in this transfer window. After 20 odd games we know we must freshen the squad to present different options to opponents in the second half of the season. But we must do that in such a way that we double down on the fantastic team spirit and camaraderie that Steve has created. We all realise that technical ability is an important ingredient for winning, but attitude, strength and determination are the crucial cogs in the wheel. Our recruitment – directed by Steve - reflects that and by the time the January window closes I hope we will have added a few options to make it even harder for Steve to select a starting eleven.

Our opponents today sit one place above us in top spot and in our televised meeting on 28 December I didn’t think there was much to choose between the teams. Neither side gives goals away easily and that showed in the 0-0 result. Whatever the result today, we’ll be playing in front of a capacity crowd, albeit reduced by our Safety Group, and the atmosphere should be fantastic.

Off the pitch we’ve completed a lot of things on my wish list. Firstly, we’ve put in place a Golden Share type veto on subjects that give the Supporters’ Association a final say on things like stadium location, home shirt colour, badge

design and name. This wasn’t requested by the SA – it’s something I wanted to do so that when I eventually move on, the Club are protected from change in these areas.

We’re also welcoming a new CEO in Mike Pink who will join us on February 1st after Chris Ross has had to return to his native Scotland for personal reasons. Chris has been great for us, and we’ll miss his energy and enthusiasm to get things done. The CEO role at a club like ours is multi-functional and Mike will need some time to settle in, but we are confident he will help us to continue the amazing atmosphere we’re creating at the Club.

Around the Stadium, we’ve listened to comments from our fans on matchday and made several improvements to our refreshment stations, all designed to create less waiting. We’ve also added a new mobile burger bar in the East Terrace to alleviate queues and serve you better.

Overall, we’re listening and reacting to do whatever we can to make your enjoyment of the game better. There’s no doubt that most of that satisfaction will come from the team’s performance, but you can help immensely with your noise.

There’s nothing better, in a compact stadium like ours than to have thousands of people cheering you on. So, let’s hear your noise when the game starts and let’s get behind the lads! Enjoy the match!

THE GAME

MATCHDAY TIMINGS

CLUB SHOP: Midday – Kick-Off

TICKET OFFICE: Midday – 3.15pm (Collections/Queries ONLY)

THE BROADHALL SUITE: Midday – KickOff (Home & Away supporters)

THE 76 LOUNGE: Midday – Kick-Off (Home & Away supporters)

Half-Time (North Stand Ticket Holders) Full-Time – 8pm TURNSTILES: 1.30pm

TICKETS & TRAVEL: SWINDON TOWN

Boro travel to Swindon Town on Tuesday 24th January 2023 at 7.45pm. Match tickets are available online at www.borotickets.co.uk and from the Stevenage FC Club Shop (open Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays 10am-5pm).

ADULT: £25 CONCESSION: £20 UNDER 18: £10 UNDER 11: £3

Match tickets are able to collect or purchase from the Stevenage FC Club Shop until midday on Tuesday 24th January.

TICKET INFO

LEYTON ORIENT SOLD OUT

Today’s fixture against Leyton Orient on Saturday 21st January 2023 is now sold out.

North Stand – SOLD OUT West Stand – SOLD OUT East Terrace – SOLD OUT Away Stand – SOLD OUT

The fixture is set to be our highest-ever attendance at The Lamex Stadium for an EFL game. No tickets will be sold on the day, so if you do not have a ticket, please do not travel. For those with seat tickets, we recommend arrival at the stadium earlier than usual to ensure you are seated in your allocated seat.

The Stevenage FC Supporters Association coach will be departing The Lamex Stadium at 3:30pm on the day of the game. To book a seat, visit www.sfcsa.co.uk/home/travel and book online.

STEVENAGE FC V LEYTON ORIENT FC

MATCHDAY MASCOTS

Orient beware! We might be playing the Os today but as far as mascots are concerned we have the A team out today - quite literally!!!

Read on and you’ll find out why!!!

First up we have Alex Bradshaw, who is six years of age and lives in Letchworth GC. Alex attends St Thomas More School in Letchworth and lists football as his main hobby. Luke Norris is his favourite player. A warm welcome also goes to Abbie Mansel who lives in Stevenage. Abbie is 10 years old and attends St Michael’s School in Woolmer Green. Her hobbies include football, swimming and netball and her favourite player is also Luke Norris. Next we say a big Boro hello to

Alfie Crook. Also from Stevenage, Alfie is 10 and he lists football Xbox and adventures with his family among his hobbies. And you’ve guessed it, his favourite Boro player is Luke Norris. Last, but not least, we say hello to Amber Hackett. Amber celebrated her eleventh birthday last weekend, so many returns for the big day! She lives in Hemel Hempstead and her main hobby is football. Don’t be disappointed though Luke, because Amber’s favourite Boro players are Elliott List and Dan Sweeney Best wishes to all our four ace As todayhere’s hoping they get us another big three home points.

Alex Bradshaw

Abbie Mansel

Alfie Crook

Amber Hackett

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FROM THE

ARCHIVES

Stevenage went into this on an impressive run of form of 13 games without a loss in the league. They hosted an Orient side sitting in 17th place, there were aspirations for these teams at either end of the table as Stevenage looked to try and push themselves further into the play-off places; whereas Leyton Orient were sitting seven points above the drop zone.

The visitors surprisingly started to edge their way into the game, with the ultimate surprise coming in the fifteenth minute in the form of Lee Cook who struck the ball hard into the top left corner, putting Stevenage behind. Orient would have been ready to enter

the dressing room for half time, proud of their efforts; however, just on the stroke of half time Leyton Orient midfielder, Ben Chorley, collided with Stevenage’s Chris Beardsley, an event which resulted in Chorley’s dismissal. Stevenage were aiming to start flying out of the blocks in the second half and tried to utilise their man advantage. However, as the battle drew on it was harder and harder for Stevenage to draw back level, but Chuks Aneke, who had only entered the action eight minutes prior, handed Boro another spoke in their wheel in the 75th minute as referee, Sheldrake, reached for the red card for the second time that afternoon. Frustratingly, Stevenage couldn’t piece together a reply to Leyton Orient’s early opening strike, meaning that Stevenage did still end the day inside the top six, but only by goal difference.

ALFIE NICHOLSON

CLICK BELOW TO CHECK OUT THE PROGRAMME

FOCUS

Hi Stevenage fans, it’s Lewis Collins 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 a little bit about me in today’s Fan Focus…

FIRST GAME?

Stevenage Borough 4-0 Leigh RMI, 27th September 2003. It was that day I fell in love with Anthony Elding and King Jason Goodliffe. It was the year after I became a season ticket holder.

WHAT PART OF THE GROUND DO YOU WATCH GAMES?

East Terrace Loyal. I may have been spotted here there and everywhere but my heart will forever be with the right side barmy army.

FAVOURITE GAMES?

FA Trophy Final in 2007 against Kiddy was an incredible experience. 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.

FAVOURITE ALL TIME PLAYER?

Lawrie Wilson. His passion, commitment and effort every game sold me. Attitude before ability.

FAVOURITE CURRENT PLAYER?

Jordan Roberts. Is there anything he can’t do?

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT BORO THAT YOU REALLY LOVE?

The East Terrace. Not many stadiums have the standing terraces anymore sadly, but makes ours even more special and unique. It’s close to the pitch and also intimidating for the opposition when they come to the fortress. The togetherness and noise on some match days is the friendliest and loudest in England!

FAVOURITE SHIRT?

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!

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 us this year hosting a Pop-Up Shop in The Broadhall Suite. Check us out @TheBroadhallWay on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Up the Boro!

FC V LEYTON ORIENT FC

ON THIS DAY: 21 JANUARY

Is it a surprise that Boro’ haven’t seen much action on this particular date in the calendar. Going back to the early days, perhaps wintry weather played its part? And in more recent times, maybe we’ve been left twiddling our thumbs when the FA Cup Fourth Round has come around? Or is it just one of those dates that rarely falls on a Saturday? Who knows and, looking at our record, who cares. In some respects, it tends to be the case that it’s better when Boro’ don’t play on this date. We’ve won just once in six previous efforts on 21 January over the years; Martin Gittings again on target with a hattrick as we knocked Wivenhoe Town out of the Loctite Trophy in 1992. Apart from that, the pickings are slim. Darius Charles came off the bench today in 2012 to rescue a point for caretaker boss Mark Roberts at Scunthorpe. Six years before that, Ronnie Henry was sent off as Boro’ slumped to defeat at home to Southport. And it was this date in 2017 when Hartlepool United registered their first (and only) win against us. The Leasing.com Trophy was one minor plus point during the 2019-20 campaign; Boro’ winning as many games in that tournament as we managed in the aborted league season. Our quarter final trip to Exeter three years ago today wasn’t one of them, however. Exeter City did to us what Exeter City tend to do to us at their place. Ho hum!

HISTORY

1989 Tring Town 1-1 Stevenage Borough, Vauxhall Opel League Division Two North (Smith)

1992 Wivenhoe Town 0-4 Stevenage Borough, Loctite Trophy (S Marshall, Gittings 3)

2006 Stevenage Borough 0-1 Southport , Nationwide Conference (Henry s/o)

2012 Scunthorpe United 1-1 Stevenage, npower League One (Charles)

2017 Hartlepool United 2-0 Stevenage, Sky Bet League Two 2020 Exeter City 3-0 Stevenage, Leasing.com Trophy QF

IT’S LEYTON ORIENT AGAIN… … and so soon? Our festive encounter down in East London wasn’t even a month ago, but here we are – back together for the return fixture. A win would be quite something for Boro’ as we try to chase down the Os. To do so, however, we need to row hard against the current that is our head-to-head record: four wins and nine defeats from 20. Indeed, we haven’t beaten the Os in seven outings. Our overall home record will make you wince too. We’ve ended up on the wrong side of the result on five occasions here – with two wins and two draws failing to redress the balance. Of course, stranger things involving this Boro’ have happened this season. Can we make it another memorable result?

MAGIC MOMENT:

28 February 2017 – Sky Bet League Two

STEVENAGE FC 4

LEYTON ORIENT 1

Boro’s only home league win against the Os is coincidentally the last time we beat them. Our other home win, by the way, was in what was called the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy some years ago. Anyway, our comfortable home win against them back in February 2017 was in keeping with where the Os found themselves that season. How times change. After starting brightly, Ben Kennedy headed home Jobi McAnuff’s cross to open the scoring on 18 minutes. A penalty from Matt Godden doubled our advantage just four minutes later; Boro’ seemingly cruising. Paul McCallum had other ideas and reduced the arrears shortly afterwards. But, for our visitors, it was a short-lived and unfulfilled hope. Three minutes into the second half, Luke Wilkinson was the next recipient of McAnuff’s crossing prowess, before Tom Pett wrapped up the scoring shortly after the hour mark. For Boro’, the three

points nudged us into the top seven. For the Os, it was the latest defeat on their way to the National League.

ON BOTH SIDES…

As we’ve already mentioned Jobi McAnuff, we’ll use him as our first example of a player to pull on both shirts at some stage of their careers. The wide midfielder was arguably in the twilight of his Football League days when he arrived at the Lamex, having already become a fans’ favourite at Brisbane Road. Other recent names to turn out for both us and them include Romain Vincelot, Charlie Lee, Dale Gorman, and Scott Cuthbert. Then there’s Iyseden Christie and Kevin Lisbie, as well as Charlie MacDonald and current coach Alex Revell. One blast from the past always worthy of mention, meanwhile, is crossing connoisseur Lee Harvey.

By Pete Hayman courtesy of boroguide.co.uk

ACADEMY

Firstly, I would like to wish the gaffer and his staff the best of the luck in this afternoon’s top of the table clash with Leyton Orient.

This month has seen the U18’s continue their good form from 2022, we drew with AFC Wimbledon who are going for the league title and we beat MK Dons away to push us further into the top 5 for the new merit league. A big turnaround from our early form.

We strengthened our professional phase team, Nick Mountford has settled in well working alongside Ronnie Henry as they continue to pull every last ounce of energy out the players who are striving to earn their professional contracts. We are delighted to welcome 5 more apprentices into next year’s group and these details will be announced in due course.

As for the schoolboy programme; Paul Dale and Tom Farr continue to push the players in the 9-16 programme and have already played a variety of games, we entered in the U15 EFL Cup and at the time of reading these notes, we would have hopefully achieved an extra 3 points in the EFL Cup as we hosted MK Dons last night at the County Ground, Letchworth. Tom Malins and Josh Caldicot-Stevens are in advanced recruitment for our next Elite Development Programme intake as they both strive to bridge the gap between

U18’s and the EDP.

Ieuan Lewis, our Head of Coaching who oversees our coaching curriculum and staffing, has produced several engaging and thought provoking CPD events for our staff. With the next one due to be held next Thursday.

Alex Stylianou will also depart the football club, having given us his intent to depart, I would like to personally thank him for his time and wish him the very best in his new role.

As always, please keep an eye out on our twitter page for further academy updates etc.

Best of luck and let’s get behind the lads and make Saturday 21st a memorable atmosphere!

Come on boro!

JORDEN GIBSON Academy Manager

WOMEN

STEVENAGE FCW 2 AFC SUDBURY WOMEN 4

Ray, Re, Webster (c), Neal, Nebbitt, Swarres, Bodily, Shephard, Millen, Makewell, Bellinger

Subs: Schofield, Farmer, Uwaifo, Greenwood

Goals: Millen, Schofield

Goals from Kelsey Millen and Emily Schofield were not enough for Stevenage FCW this weekend as AFC Sudbury avenged their narrow defeat in the reverse fixture last August. The weather may have been a foreshadow of events to come as the ladies came out to a deluge of rain. However despite the dark and gloomy weather, Stevenage provided a bright start. Amy Makewell broke free into the left side of the box and rolled a tasty ball across goal for Millen to slot home at the far post.

Jodie Bellinger, Vicky Neal and Millen all saw chances come and go whilst Celine Ray kept the impressive Holly Kennard at bay down the other end. Boro’ would come to regret those missed chances. After a superb piece of defensive covering from Neal in the early stages of the second half, Sudbury had to settle for a corner. Sophie Jeffery sent that in and

Kaylee Dodd rose at the far post to level the scores.

Neal saw a volley from a Hannah Nebbitt corner saved before another Jeffery corner was awarded. This time the ball cleared most players, but Jess Allen was at the far post to take the ball and strike it home.

Just after the hour mark, Becky Shephard hit the bar from a floated effort from the right side of the pitch and Millen sent the ball just wide once it was worked back to her. Sudbury took advantage of the let off and when Kennard had the ball on the left flank she attempted to cut inside only for the ball to land at the feet of Leonie Bezant who shifted the ball and fired the ball high over Ray for the third of the game. That was the end of the game for Ray who was hurt and with no substitute goalkeeper, Webster needed to fill in. Stevenage fought hard and narrowed the deficit with a superb bit of work from Makewell who again teed up the goalscorer – this time Schofield – by sending the ball to the far post for her to fire home.

Any dreams of a comeback were dashed with just under ten minutes remaining. Boro’ failed to deal with a ball sent to the left and Kennard topped off her performance with a lofted effort that Wesbter had no chance of saving. Susan Uwaifo and Schofield both had late opportunities to get Stevenage back in the game, but Sudbury held on for a win that will be hard for the Stevenage players to swallow with Luton only able to draw at King’s Lynn.

STEVENAGE FCW DEVELOPMENT 1

Oldroyd, Lightning, Carter, Brooks, Jones, White, Cooper (c), Poulter, Purdue, Fidler, Clarke

Subs: Reeves, Craig, Mercer, Hendy, O’Keefe

Goals: Purdue (Penalties – Hendy, Brooks, Fidler, Purdue, Mercer)

STEVENAGE FCW 1

O’Brien, Farmer, Webster (c), Neal, Nebbitt, Swarres, Price, Greenwood, Schofield, Makewell, Bellinger

Subs: Shephard, Sibanda, Uwaifo

Goals: Makewell (Penalties – Bellinger, Shephard, Schofield, Makewell, Neal, Nebbitt)

(5-6 on penalties)

Stevenage FCW were always destined to reach the final of the County Cup from the moment the semi-final draw was made. Few would have imagined such a tense and nail-biting affair, apart from maybe the staff and the few hardcore fans who are aware of the journey of the development squad. In fact, if a first team walkover was in the script, nobody told the young up and coming talent who fought and scrapped for every ball, pushing their senior counterparts all the way to the dreaded penalty shootout.

It had all started so well for the first team. It took just 3 minutes for the sublime Amy Makewell to notch up her 11th goal of the season so far and to maintain her simply immense run of games with a goal involvement to nine on the bounce. Makewell was able to sweep the ball home after a superb pass from Erin Price to Jodie Bellinger who sent the ball square for Makewell to finish.

Makewell and Bellinger continued to terrorise the defence with Tea Oldroyd and Grace Brooks ensuring the game stayed within reach. It took until almost a third of the game had been completed until Ella Mercer had the first shot on goal for the Development side. Mia O’Brien

saved comfortably, but it was a sign that the youngsters were settling. Five minutes later they were level. Kristal Clarke collected a throw in on the righthand side and turned her marker well. Her cross was dealt with by Nicole Farmer, but the first team struggled to clear the ball before Ciara Purdue picked the pocket of Holy Greenwood and her turn and shot with her left foot looped over O’Brien and into the net. Club captain Lucy Webster said, “Ciara is a good player, she is a good finisher, and it won’t be long until she is knocking on the first team door.”

Oldroyd had to deny Greenwood just moments later as the first team tried to regain the lead immediately, but it was the development team who finished the half in the ascendancy.

The second half started well for the first team with Bellinger forcing a save from Oldroyd and ten minutes later bundling the ball home at the far post only to be ruled offside from Greenwood’s cross shot.

Oldroyd and the post combined to ensure the game stayed level with Susan Uwaifo and Makewell having successive shots repelled and despite the hard work going forward, it took a superb tackle from Brooks to ensure Uwaifo didn’t steal the win at the death. Devs captain – Nicole Cooper said after the game “I was proud of the players. We had an expectation to work hard and that’s exactly what we got. It is a positive because we pushed them to the very end.”

Assistant manager Dave Perry was equally pleased. “I am proud we kept going. It was a good challenge and they didn’t let their heads drop even though they missed a few chances.”

FIXTURES

DATE OPPONENT

VENUE

HERTFORDSHIRE FA - THE COUNTY GROUND 29/01/23 Haringey Borough HARINGEY BOROUGH FOOTBALL CLUB 05/02/23 Luton Town HERTFORDSHIRE FA - THE COUNTY GROUND 12/02/23 Kings Lynn Town HERTFORDSHIRE FA - THE COUNTY GROUND 26/02/23 Bedford

22/01/23 Royston Town

HERTFORDSHIRE FA - THE COUNTY GROUND 05/03/23 Bowers & Pitsea HERTFORDSHIRE FA - THE COUNTY GROUND 26/03/23 Needham Market NEEDHAM MARKET FOOTBALL CLUB 02/04/23 Wroxham TRAFFORD PARK 09/04/23 Colney Heath COLNEY HEATH RECREATION GROUND 30/04/23 Luton Town BARTON ROVERS FC 07/05/23 Bedford MCMULLEN PARK

FOUNDATION

Welcome to The Lamex, for what will be another historic day in the Club’s history. It is fantastic to see our fanbase, and our local community show so much support for the men’s team in the last few weeks. The record crowd today is testament to the work that is being done on the pitch, but also the work being done off of it too, engaging with all areas of our community and creating new fans.

With so many eyes on the Club at the moment it is vital that we use this opportunity to showcase what the Club is all about. A community club at heart, working with a variety of partners to deliver meaningful, and long-lasting positive change in our town and surrounding areas.

This week the EFL Week of Action has showcased this work, and that of the 71 other Clubs in the EFL. All of whom are

game changers in their own area. You can find out more about all this work by following this link – CLICK HERE

The work we deliver in the local community is only made possible by securing funding, contracts, or delivering a variety of paid for activities that allows us to continue to do what we do best, which at last count reaches over 5,000 people every year.

There are others ways you as fans can support as though, and I’d like to thank Duncan Ling and Fiona Brook who recently became our first two Patreon supporters. Both have pledged monthly donations through the platform to support our work and help us do more.

For as little as £0.10p per day, you can help us create a community where all can live an active, healthy, and positive life. Enjoy the game and COYB!

JOE GOUDE Foundation CEO

We are currently looking to add some more incredibly passionate and talented people to join our team, with a number of vacancies available in the Foundation.

After successfully securing funding to deliver two large scale projects across Hertfordshire, we are looking for Community Coaches or Youth Workers with a passion for engaging young people and using sport as a vehicle for positive change.

The part-time roles, guarantee a minimum of 25 hours per week, with overtime hours available at an enhanced rate. The roles come with a unique CPD package, with coaches receiving access to training and development from the Premier League, English Football League (EFL), Stevenage FC Academy, Hertfordshire FA, Herts Sports Partnership and more. In addition to Community Coache vacancies, we also have opportunities for young aspiring coaches to join our team in partnership with Sporting Futures Training to undertake a 14-month Community Sport Activator apprenticeship. The role will provide support to the Foundation Community Coaches, as well as undertaking central training with Sporting Futures Training in Stevenage

with other apprentices to deliver a variety of sport events for local schools. If you are interested in joining our team or would like to know more about any of the roles available at the Foundation, then please visit www.stevenagefcfoundation. com/vacancies

www.leytonorient.com

CLICK HERE FOR THE COMPLETE SQUAD LIST

FORM GUIDE

Here we go again, it’s the big one, part two!

The team with the best home record in EFL

Two will do battle with the team with the best away record in the league - and the outcome is anyone’s guess!

Of course the Os sit five points clear of Boro

at the top (having played a game more) so whatever the outcome they will retain pole position tonight. But the fact that Carlisle are 10 points behind Boro in fourth and Bradford are 12 points adrift in seventh means that both sides on the pitch today have promotion fixed firmly in their minds, with half an eye on the title of course.

If there was any guide to today then the form tells us that Orient are the club which need a boost. They sit 14th in the form table having taken six points from the last five games. Boro have three points more and are in eighth.

Orient are profiting from a storming start, eight wins from nine seeing them well, clear, and further spells of straight victories have kept the gap at the top from all comers.

But they have won just once in their last five, with three draws and a defeat coming because of a lack of goals - they have scored just once in those five.

LAST 5 SEASONS

ONE TO WATCH:

The O’s announced the signing of Paul Smyth in June 2021, following the expiration of his contract at QPR. The pacey forward was the fourth new summer signing. The 23-year-old began his career at Linfield before signing for The R’s in 2017. Whilst on the books at QPR, Smyth spent spells on loan at Accrington Stanley, Wycombe Wanderers and Charlton Athletic. Widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted players in SkyBet League Two, Paul Smyth certainly has the ability to hold that key which can unlock any defence in the league and top scores with nine for the Os.

MEET THE BOSS:

Following his retirement from playing after a career spanning almost 700 appearances, Richie Wellens became a first team coach at Oldham, and less than three months later, was placed in caretaker charge of the team. He was relieved of his duties in June 2018 and looked to bounce back at Swindon Town, where he was confirmed as Head Coach in November of 2018. In his first season at the County Ground, he guided the Robins to a 13th place finish, a five place improvement from when he took the team over. The following season, Wellens was able to regalvanise the Robins, guiding them back to League One.

The Wiltshire club won the title early due to the Covid-19 pandemic curtailing the season, with PPG the deciding factor.

After nine games of the 2020/21 League One campaign, Wellens left Swindon for Salford City. During his tenure, he oversaw EFL trophy success, as Salford overcame

Portsmouth, managed by former O’s boss Kenny Jackett’s Portsmouth. Following his spell at the Ammies, Wellens returned to another of his former clubs in the shape of Doncaster Rovers, in May of 2021 but was replaced as Doncaster manager in December of 2021, with the club struggling towards the bottom of the SkyBet League One table. He was appointed head coach of Orient on March 9, 2022.

COMMERCIAL

MATCH SPONSOR

MATCH BALL SPONSOR

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SUPPORTERS’ ASSOCIATION

LATEST NEWS

WELCOME

To our good friends and near neighbours from Leyton Orient this afternoon. We had a great day out at Brisbane Road just over three weeks ago, and we’d hope to reciprocate the gesture with the “O”s fans here at The Lamex. There will be a huge phalanx of Orient fans here today and the scene is set for a great game and a fantastic atmosphere. Indulge and enjoy.

VILLA PARK

What can I say that hasn’t already been said since our trip to Aston Villa on January 8th? It was a truly remarkable day and the behaviour of all our fans was exemplary. I even witnessed Aston Villa fans applauding our buses as we departed for home after the game. What a day!

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“We don’t have substitutes at Stevenage. We have game-changers”

Steve Evans

INTER-CITY BORO

Firstly, I must comment on how well the SA busses were organised and co-ordinated on the trip to Villa Park recently. Being “in charge” of bus no.10 myself, everything went smoothly on the day and my grateful thanks go to John Carroll and Andy Mugridge who did all the organising behind the scenes. A lot of effort went into this, and I was pleased to see recognition by those who went on social media and on-line forums to express their opinions. Thank you. Now then, Swindon away this coming Tuesday. The details are a 4:00pm departure from The Lamex, at a cost of just £20 per member. There’s bound to be a lot of interest in this fixture, so book early either by telephoning John Carroll on Stevenage 814285 (after 6:00pm) or book on-line via our web page link , So, will you be coming to Stoke too? The Britannia Stadium beckons. At the time of

writing, I don’t have the relevant facts, but keep checking the Supporters’ Association website for accurate, up-to-date details.

CHRIS ROSS

I was saddened to see the club’s former COO Chris Ross depart recently due to a personal family issue. In his relatively short time with us, we had developed a good rapport with Chris, and he even joined the SA in good faith. We wish him well. The SA also welcomes the arrival of a new club CEO, Mark Pink, who starts with the club on February 1st. Coincidently, Mark joins us from – Leyton Orient!

GOLDEN SHARE

On January 5th, the club announced that it had adapted its articles to allow the SA to have a veto over future decisions likely to involve branding, home colours, location and other specific subjects that could be considered important to the club. The SA currently own just over 1.6% of the club, and the gesture is commonly known as a “Golden Share”.

As one of the recommendations from the recent Fan-led Review of Football Governance, the SA is delighted that the club chairman, Phil Wallace, is way ahead of the game in this context, endorsing the notion that Stevenage fans will have a say in big decisions in the future.

LLOYD BRISCOE Chair - Stevenage FC Supporters’ Association

HERE’S A I BET YOU DIDN’T KN

JULY 2022

Sat Jul 30 Tranmere Rovers FL2 6,111 2-1 Reeves, Roberts

AUGUST 2022

Sat Aug 06 Stockport County FL2 2,973 2-1 Norris, Reid

Tue Aug 09 Reading CC 4,230 2-1 Earley, Rose

Sat Aug 13 Walsall FL2 5,079 1-1 Rose

Tue Aug 16 Rochdale FL2 2,720 1-0 Piergianni

Sat Aug 20 Carlisle United FL2 2,514 2-1 Smith, Clark

Tue Aug 23 Peterborough United CC 2,292 1-0 Reid

Sat Aug 27 Salford City FL2 2,023 0-1

Tue Aug 30 Peterborough United PJT 2,420 2-1 Taylor, Piergianni

SEPTEMBER 2022

Sat Sept 03 Crewe Alexandra FL2 3,669 2-1 Reid x 2

Tue Sept 13 Newport County FL2 2,109 1-0 Gilbey

Sat Sept 17 Bradford City FL2 16,917 0-3

Tue Sept 20 Wycombe Wanderers PJT 717 3-0 Rose x 2, Vancooten

Sat Sept 24 Harrogate Town FL2 2,547 1-0 Sweeney

OCTOBER 2022

Sat Oct 01 Crawley Town FL2 2,732 2-1 Roberts, Norris

Tue Oct 04 Sutton United FL2 2,471 3-0 Sweeney, Norris x 2

Sat Oct 08 Swindon Town FL2 4,087 2-0 Roberts x 2

Sat Oct 15 Gillingham FL2 5,031 1-1 Rose

Tue Oct 18 Tottenham Hotspur U21 PJT 1,449 1-0 Roberts

Sat Oct 22 Northampton Town FL2 4,941 2-3 Rose, Gilbey

Tue Oct 25 Doncaster Rovers FL2 5,690 1-0 Roberts

Sat Oct 29 Colchester United FL2 3,486 1-1 Rose

NOVEMBER 2022

Sat Nov 05 Gateshead FAC 1,059 3-2 Roberts, (OG), Norris

Tue Nov 08 Charlton Athletic CC 3,515 1-1 Norris

Sat Nov 12 Hartlepool United FL2 3,626 1-0 Rose

Sat Nov 19 Grimsby Town FL2 6,022 1-1 Reeves

Tue Nov 22 Arsenal U21 PJT 2,236 3-2 Amoo, Sweeney, Read

Sat Nov 26 Kings Lynn FAC 4,203 3-0 Norris x 2, Reid

DECEMBER 2022

Fri Dec 02 Barrow FL2 2,756 5-0 Reeves, Reid, Sweeney, Norris, (OG)

Sat Dec 10 Mansfield Town FL2 3,301 0-0

Tue Dec 13 Portsmouth PJT 2,162 0-3

Mon Dec 26 Leyton Orient FL2 8,644 0-0

Fri Dec 30 Crawley Town FL2 3,238 3-1 Roberts, Piergianni x 2

JANUARY 2023

Sun Jan 01 Gillingham FL2 3,703 1-0 Piergianni

Sun Jan 08 Aston Villa FAC 32,343 2-1 Reid, Campbell

Sat Jan 14 Harrogate Town FL2 2,314 1-1 Piergianni

Sat Jan 21 Leyton Orient FL2

Tue Jan 24 Swindon Town FL2

Sun Jan 29 Stoke City FAC

FEBRUARY 2023

Sat Feb 04 Sutton United FL2

Sat Feb 11 Bradford City FL2

Tue Feb 14 Newport County FL2

Sat Feb 18 Stockport County FL2

Sat Feb 25 Tranmere Rovers FL2

MARCH 2023

Sat Mar 04 Rochdale FL2

Sat Mar 11 Walsall FL2

Sat Mar 18 Carlisle United FL2

Sat Mar 25 Salford City FL2

APRIL 2023

Sat Apr 01 Northampton Town FL2

Fri Apr 07 Colchester United FL2

Mon Apr 10 Hartlepool United FL2

Sat Apr 15 AFC Wimbledon FL2

Tue Apr 18 Doncaster Rovers FL2

Sat Apr 22 Mansfield Town FL2

Sat Apr 29 Grimsby Town FL2

MAY 2023

Sat May 06 Barrow FL2

FIXTURES & RESULTS 2022/23

APPEARANCES

PL GLS

Dan Sweeney 35 (0) 4

Terence Vancooten 32 (1) 1 Carl Piergianni 31 (2) 6 Taye Ashby-Hammond 27 (0) 0

Luke Norris 26 (7) 9

Luther James-Wildin 25 (6) 0

Jake Reeves 25 (7) 3 Jordan Roberts 24 (8) 8

Danny Rose 24 (8) 8 Alex Gilbey 22 (1) 2 Max Clark 20 (6) 1

Saxon Earley 17 (10) 1 Jamie Reid 16 (17) 7 Jake Taylor 15 (18) 1

Arthur Read 13 (7) 1

Kane Smith 12 (5) 1

Dean Campbell 11 (9) 1

Aaron Chapman 9 (0) 0 Michael Bostwick 8 (10) 0 David Amoo 3 (10) 1

Elliott List 1 (0) 0 Jake Forster-Caskey 0 (1) 0

Daryl Horgan 0 (1) 0 Jonathan Tomkinson 0 (0) 0

LEAGUE TABLE

P W D L Pts 1 Leyton Orient 26 17 6 3 57 2 Stevenage 25 15 7 3 52

Northampton Town 26 13 7 6 46

Carlisle United 25 11 9 5 42

Salford City 25 12 5 8 41

Swindon Town 26 11 8 7 41

Bradford City 25 11 7 7 40

Barrow 26 12 4 10 40 9 Mansfield Town 26 11 6 9 39 10 Stockport County 24 11 4 9 37

Walsall 24 10 7 7 37

Doncaster Rovers 25 11 4 10 37

AFC Wimbledon 26 9 9 8 36

Sutton United 27 10 6 11 36

Tranmere Rovers 26 9 8 9 35

Grimsby Town 24 8 6 10 30

Crewe Alexandra 24 7 9 8 30

Newport County 26 6 8 12 26

Colchester United 26 7 5 14 26

Harrogate Town 25 6 6 13 24

Crawley Town 24 5 7 12 22

Rochdale 26 5 5 16 20

Hartlepool United 25 4 7 14 19 24 Gillingham 24 3 8 13 17

*Effective against enveloped viruses **vs representative Gram-negative bacterium. Always practise good hand hygiene. Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use. 99.9% OF BACTERIA

*Effective against enveloped viruses **vs representative Gram-negative bacterium. Always practise good hand hygiene. Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use. 99.9% OF BACTERIA

‘LOVE FOOTBALL. PROTECT THE GAME’

To mark the new season, we want to make you aware of new measures being taken across all of football to ensure everyone can have a safe and enjoyable experience. We are supporting strong action from the FA, Premier League and EFL to tackle anti-social and criminal behaviours that put all of us at risk.

This reflects the seriousness of the risks to fans and staff – pyros can burn at 2000 degrees Celsius and cause lifechanging injuries, while entering the pitch endangers players, managers and match officials.

We know those who commit these illegal acts do not represent the majority of supporters.

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