SATURDAY 16 T h NOVEMBER kI C k OFF: 15:00
EMANUElE PAll ADiNO
We are very excited to welcome our fans back to the stadium today, for the first time following the news that a purchase agreement has been signed with Cardinal Football Group LLC, led by American businessman Todd Johnson.
We are aware how much uncertainty has been swirling around. It has been a testing time for everyone associated with the club.
These deals are complex, especially when you consider the history of a club as old as Woking FC, and we have been grateful for your patience and continued support.We are now at the final hurdle with our EGM to come, and we look forward to being able to
complete our deal and move forwards to the next chapter this month.
We cannot close this chapter without saying a big thank you to Drew Volpe for his passion and support for Woking FC. Of course Drew will still be staying involved, and as he steps back in the coming weeks we can all be grateful for his strong desire to see the baton pass on to a good custodian of the club.
Back to events of today and our match with Boston United. We wish the players and coaches the best of luck as we look for a positive result on the field to match our news off the field.See you all soon,Emanuele Palladino
MICHAEL DOYLE
2024/25
SE ASON TiCKETS
IN SAfE HANDS
As a reminder, it is our goal to ensure that all supporters feel safe and welcome at the Laithwaite Community Stadium. To that end, on 11 December 2021, the Club launched the “In Safe Hands” programme to help our fans report racist, sexist, homophobic, or other abusive language simply and anonymously.
If you hear any abusive language, experience it yourself or if you or someone you see feels / looks threatened, you can text the Club anonymously and the message will be monitored by our Safety Officer during the match. Simply text WFC (followed by the nature of your concern and location) to 66777 and we will address your concerns. Example: If you hear racial abuse whilst sitting in the KRE, please send the following text to 66777: “WFC racial abuse centre section of KRE.”
The Football Foundation is the Premier League, The FA and the Government’s charity.
We award grants and work with partners to deliver outstanding grassroots football facilities across England.
Search Football Foundation to find out more.
AHEAD Of THE GAME
Woking host newly promoted Boston United on Saturday with both teams desperate for a first win since September.
Michael Doyle’s side are winless in nine league games and would love to end a horrific run of form that has seen them defeated five times, with four of those being by the odd goal.
With five strikers to choose from, Woking have plenty of options to choose from as they hope to start a positive run of form.
OPPOSITION WATCH
Promoted through the back door of the National League North playoffs following victories over Alfreton, Scunthorpe and Brackley, Boston’s season so far feels like deja vu for the division’s experts as another side promoted after a late playoff run has struggled following Kidderminster’s problems last season.
Ian Culverhouse masterminded promotion to this level just like he did with Kings Lynn Town a few years ago, but the former Linnets chief has once again paid with his job for a poor start that has seen the Pilgrims win just twice so far this season, although both were impressive away victories at York City and Sutton United.
Boston were unable to keep hold of strikers Jimmy Knowles (some Woking fans may remember his hat trick for Notts County in 2021) and Kelsey
Woking vs Boston United Vanarama National League Saturday 16th November 2024
15:00 Kick-Off
Mooney, who scored 34 goals between them last season, and top scorer Jacob Hazel has five so far this season, with Boston having seen just six players score for them so far this season compared to Woking’s eleven.
The recent loan return of Billy Chadwick is interim coach Martin Woods’ solution to the Pilgrims’ scoring problems, with just Braintree and Ebbsfleet inferior to 16 scored. Just one National League Cup win in thirteen games along with an FA Cup embarrassment against Gainsborough Trinity is bleak reading, but with three of the bottom six sides to play in their next four games, perhaps a result here would turn a corner for Boston United.
AROUND THE GROUND
Details about Kids for a Quid and our Season Ticket Raffle are available here.
LAST TIME OUT
Boston were victorious in both meetings in the 2001/02 season as they won 4-0 at home and 2-0 at the Laithwaite in a season that saw them promoted, with previous seasons also seeing the same result in both fixtures, with both ending in draws in 2000/2001, before the 1992/93 season saw newly promoted Woking victorious on both occasions.
This means that both sides have won two of the six meetings between the teams, with two draws as well.
TICKET INFORMATION
ONLINE & ADVANCE SALES VS. [MATCHDAY SALES]
Adults – £21 [£24]
Concessions – £16 [£19]
Next-Gen (17-22) – £13 [£16]
Under 17 (14-16) – £9 [£12]
Under 14 (13 & under) – £5
Family ticket* - £47.50 [online exclusively]
*Family ticket discount will be applied when two (2) adult tickets & two (2) under 14 tickets are selected and added to the basket for any home league match.
PURCHASE TICKETS
ARRIVING AT THE STADIUM
Kingfield Road turnstiles – blue and yellow entry opens two-and-a-half hours before kick-off, unless otherwise stated.
Westfield Avenue turnstiles - red and orange entry opens two-and-a-half hours before kick-off, unless otherwise stated.
Away supporter turnstiles - white entry opens two hours before kick-off, unless stated otherwise.
Supporters who have purchased a hospitality package will have green entry and should enter through the Guest Entrance, Kingfield Road.
Supporters are reminded to arrive at the Laithwaite Community Stadium in good time, and are not guaranteed to gain entry in time for kick-off when arriving less than 30 minutes before kick-off.
FOOD & DRINK
The Cardinals Bar is located at the front of the stadium.
The bar has full draught and bottle beer options. The Fan Zone is the newest addition for supporters and is located opposite the Cardinals Bar.
Moaners Corner Café is located next Moaners Corners Stand, with hot and cold drinks, plus snacks available.
The Seymours Community Stand has hot food options and a last lane for beverages.
CLUB SHOP
The Club Shop is open two-and-a-half hours before kick-off, located by the Fan Zone.
The shop is also open Mon - Fri, 10:00 - 16:00, upon check-in at reception.
TICKETING INFORMATION
All Woking FC Season Ticket holders can use their Season Ticket card to enter Laithwaite Community Stadium for all Vanarama National League matches.
Supporters with individual match tickets can use the e-ticket they purchased which was emailed from noreply@ktckts.com. Such tickets can be scanned on a smartphone or when printed.
Any assistance needed for matchday please contact tickets@wokingfc.co.uk, call 01483 772470, or come to reception Mon - Fri, 09:0017:00, or matchdays, 09:00 - half-time.
OTHER INFORMATION
Away supporter information can be found here. Directions to the ground are available here. Disabled access information is available here
Commercial Partner DoubleTree by Hilton in Woking have very kindly donated their Southend Match Sponsorship to raise funds for Woking Sam Beare...
S OC IAL
Season ticket holders who attend this Saturday’s home fixture against Boston United are in with a chance of winning a signed ball...
All Season Ticket Holders who attend our next home fixture against Boston United stand the chance of winning a signed pair of Will Jääskeläinen’s gloves.
Woking Football Club are delighted to announce that six local businesses and institutions have partnered with the club for the 24/25...
We are excited to announce that all kids (under 14) can enter for £1, when purchased alongside an adult or concession ticket...
@wokingfc @wokingfc
Defeat in West Yorkshire.
SPONSOR
4 Cian Harries
28. Ollie Webber
22. Will Jääskeläinen
3. Jacob Jones
2. Dan Moss
7. Harry Beautyman
8. Dale Gorman
5. Timi Odusina
6. Jamie Andrews
21. Ben Wynter
35. Max Dyche
27. Dion Kelly-Evans
11. Dennon Lewis
9. Charley Kendall
26. Tom Dryer
29. Tom Leahy
19. Jack Stretton
18. Raheem Conte
20. Alan Judge
Rohan Ince
17. Matt Ward
16. Tunji Akinola
10. Lewis Walker
14. Deon Moore
15. Adam Chicksen 23. Jermaine Anderson
John Keeley
Dan Rowe Ben Turner
ABOUT
The Cards Trust (Cardinals Supporters Society) has worked with the Club to represent fans for more than a decade. The Trust is a shareholder of the Club (and owns around a quarter of it) and has a representative on the Board to put forward the fans’ views.
MEMBERSHIP
Supporters can join The Cards Trust for just £10 per year. Information about joining is on the Trust website.
BOOST THE BUDGET
An initiative to help the Club’s playing budget with regular contributions. More than £200,000 has gone to the Club throughout the scheme.
THE 400 CLUB
A prize draw with twelve draws per year. Around £20,000 has been given to support the Club and more than £12,000 in prizes.
GOLDRUSH
The prize draw that gives back 50% to the lucky winner with a draw at half-time on matchday, with a minimum stake of just £1. The prizes have recently been around £400 and the winning number is announced and displayed on the digital screen at half-time.
SOCIAL EVENTS AND VOLUNTEERING
The Trust also organises social events and co-
ordinates the activities of volunteers. Please get in touch if you would like to help on match days.
JUNIOR CARDS
A scheme with a range of activities for under 16s including stadium tours and competitions.
PLAYER AWARD VOTES
The Fans’ Player of the Month and Player of the Season polls are conducted by the Trust.
AWAY MATCH TRAVEL
The Cards Trust arranges coach travel to away matches for supporters at the lowest cost possible. If you are an advertiser that would like to sponsor the travel, please get in touch.
Details of all coaches are available on the Trust website, where tickets can be booked online, usually up to 23:00 on the day before the match. Members and Junior Cards get discounted away match travel.
SUPPORTERS’ LIAISON GROUP
The SLG consults with fans (both Trust members and non-members) and the Club to improve the fan experience. Real change has been made based on ideas from the group including the successful Turner's Tannoy appeal which has financed the recent upgrade in the PA at the stadium.
THE CARDS TRUST THIS WEEK'S UPDATES
UPCOMING AWAY COACH TRAVEL
Supporters Coaches
We are hoping to run a Supporters Coach to Barnet on Saturday 23rd November. This is subject to receiving enough interest. Please book no later than Monday 18th November
AWAY TRAVEL
Barnet CLICK HERE
One way tickets both outbound and return are available to book by contacting Adam Bowyer (adam. bowyer@cardstrust.co.uk)
CHRISTMAS BUCKET COLLECTION 30TH NOVEMBER
Please note that there will be a bucket collection at the Yeovil match on Saturday 30th November. Please bring any spare change (and notes!) to donate towards the Christmas Hospital Visits. If you are able to volunteer and shake a bucket then please contact Rupert Philips (Rupert.Phillips@ cardstrust.co.uk) or a member of the Cards Trust Board.
JUNIOR CARDS
Membership is open for season 2024/25 and still only £10! Membership would be a great Christmas present for a young cards fan! Please join up or renew CLICK HERE
BIRTHDAYS
Wilder North 13th November - 5 years oldIsla Michael Burnett - 19th November - 12 years old
Please note that the Junior Cards Christmas party will be on hiatus this year and will not take place as previously advertised.
400 CLUB
October draw
£100 Number 196 Jamie Bullen
£75 Number 155 Richard Devonshire
£50 Number 266 Bryan Cross
Congratulations to the winners. Units are just £12 each.
To learn more and take part please contact john. hooker@cardstrust.co.uk
CARDS TRUST QUIZ NIGHT
The Cards Trust Quiz Night is taking place on Friday 22nd November. Tickets are £10.
For more information please contact johngreenwood132@ hotmail.com BOOK HERE
THE CARDS TRUST LAUNCHES A FAN WALL NEW fAN WALL
If you're coming to the Laithwaite this afternoon then you'll notice a striking new Fan Wall on the outside wall of the Legends Bar. The wall offers personalised plaques to purchase that enable you to celebrate your favourite player, record your first match, or of course remember a loved one - it is very fitting that Andy Turner has pride of place on the top left plaque.Developed by the Supporters Liaison Group within The Cards Trust, this fundraising initiative will be used by the trust to fund improvements to the spectator experience at the ground, as well as contributing to Boost The Budget and other initiatives to support Woking FC.You can find out more about how to get your own plaque by visiting https://www.cardstrust. co.uk/fanwall (simple login-free access) or by speaking to any Cards Trust official at the game today.Anyone can purchase a plaque, you
don't need to be a member of The Cards Trust, but please consider joining to actively support your club.This is also a great way for anyone who cannot get to The Laithwaite Community Stadium themselves to show their ongoing support for the club.
WOMEN'S REPORT
Managers thoughts from last weekend's 4-0 Victory Vs Kidlington Youth FC and this weekend's thoughts on our game against Epsom & Ewell. Conor Angell - Very happy to build on the previous weeks victory with another one in the League Cup.
Credit to the back line and Amy in goal who have kept 2 clean sheets in a row. Kidlington Youth showed great fight throughout and gave us a tough contest. Exciting game against Epsom and Ewell this weekend and we hope to see as many of you as possible at the game!Owen- It’s all starting to click now! Some of the football we are playing is joyful to watch and it looks like we’ve got a real threat going forward now. Keeping 2 clean sheets in a row is a credit to the defence and Amy in goal. We look to keep building this momentum as we look forward to the trip to Epsom next week!
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MATCHDAY & BALL SPONSORSHIP
Booking as part of a business, or simply looking to celebrate in added style? Why not take out a match or ball sponsorship?
You’ll receive all the incredible VIP Hospitality benefits, plus: Match Sponsorship - £1,150.00 + VAT
• Signed home shirt
• Half-page programme promotion
• PA promotion
• Social media and website promotion
• Access to our “Partner Perks” for the 24/25 season
• Full matchday hospitality for a table of ten (add additional guests for only £50 per person)
• Choose player of the match – read out on PA
• Executive VIP parking
Match Ball Sponsorship - £650.00 + VAT
• Signed match ball
• Half-page programme promotion
• PA promotion
• Social media and website promotion
• Access to our “Partner Perks” for the 24/25 season
• Full matchday hospitality experience for a table of six (add additional guests for only £50 per person)
PLAYER SPONSORSHIP
The club are delighted to announce the Player Sponsorship package for the 24/25 season.
The club have reviewed the price and enhanced the offer to make supporting your favourite 1st team management or player more accessible and rewarding.
From the 24/25 season, player and management sponsors will receive:
• Signed match worn home and away jerseys near the start of the season presented at our Player & Management Sponsors dinner.
• Dedicated video shout-out from the player on signing and/ or on your birthday/special event (or a significant others).
• 2 x hospitality tickets during the season and the opportunity to meet your sponsored player after/before the game.
• Option to attend manager/player meet and greet throughout the season.
• Pre-game scoreboard reel with players and your name/ logo next to them.
Price for 24/25 player sponsorship is £900 + VAT. To sponsor a player, please email Simon, the club's Business Development Director, on simon.jones@wokingfc.co.uk.
HOSPiTALiTY PACKAGES 24/25
Woking Football Club is pleased to confirm its matchday hospitality prices for 2024/25.
Enjoy VIP matchday hospitality for only £65 per person at the Laithwaite Community Stadium.
You will be able to book in advance for all 24/25 fixtures online once the list has been released.
What’s included?
• Three-course meal* prepared by our in-house chef team using locally sourced ingredients supplied by Simmons Family Butchers and Boz’s Fruit & Veg.
• Executive leather padded seats in the Seymours Community Stand.
• Dedicated lounge emcee.
• Exclusive bar and drinks options.
• Pre-match first-team management or player visit.
• Hear from the match sponsors’ player of the match after the game.
Single Match Pricing 24/25
VIP Hospitality: £65.00
STH VIP Hospitality: £50.00
Under 14’s VIP Hospitality**: £35.00
Hospitality Season Tickets
VIP Hospitality: £1,350 (£145 discount)
Platinum VIP Hospitality***: £1,750 (£205 discount)
Under 14’s VIP Hospitality: £750 (£90 discount).
Existing 2024/25 season ticket holders can enjoy a discount of £15pp for single-match hospitality. All payments for VIP matchday hospitality tickets shall be payable upon booking. Please note – cash is not accepted in the Geoff Chapple Lounge, and we will not accept cash payments on the day. Bookings are
only provisional until payment is made. All payments for hospitality season tickets shall be payable upon booking. If you have already purchased a 2024/25 season ticket**** and wish to upgrade to hospitality or platinum for the season, do so by calling the Club on 01483 772 470. Hospitality will be bookable online via the online ticketing platform or through the Club phone lines.
Other information
* Consisting of a main meal 1 hour before kick-off, a cold pudding at half-time and a cheeseboard for the table to share post-game. The main meal will either be a meat or vegetarian option (1 option of each) and will be sent out via email one week before the match. If you’d like to request an advance menu, please email tickets@wokingfc. co.uk. Please do not email menu choices in advance, as you will choose on the day. Please only email evie.carey@wokingfc.co.uk with allergen or dietary requirements.
** Under 14’s hospitality will enjoy all the benefits of a VIP Hospitality ticket; however, their main meal options are: Cheeseburger & Chips, Hotdog & Chips, Vegan Hotdog & Chips
*** The platinum package includes all the VIP perks, plus five drink vouchers to use per matchday at the Geoff Chapple Lounge bar, which may be redeemed for draught beer pints, 187ml wine by the glass, single spirits with mixers or soft drinks. Please note that platinum packages are only available for hospitality season ticket holders.
AUGUST
Sat Aug 10 Altrincham
Sat Aug 17 Gateshead
Tue Aug 20 Dagenham & Redbridge
Sat Aug 24 Ebbsfleet United
Mon Aug 26 Hartlepool United
Sat Aug 31 Rochdale
SEPTEMBER
Sat Sep 7 Braintree Town
Tue Sep 10 Wealdstone
Sat Sep 14 Oldham Athletic
Sat Sep 21 AFC Fylde
Tue Sep 24 Eastleigh
Sat Sep 28 Sutton United
OCTOBER
Sat Oct 5 York City
Sat Oct 12 Slough Town (FA Cup)
Sat Oct 19 Tamworth
Tue Oct 22 Solihull Moors
Sat Oct 26 Forest Green Rovers
NOVEMBER
Sat Nov 2 Cambridge United (FA Cup)
Sat Nov 9 FC Halifax Town
Sat Nov 16 Boston United
Sat Nov 23 Barnet
Tue Nov 26 Southend United
Sat Nov 30 Yeovil Town
DECEMBER
Sat Dec 7 Isuzu FA Trophy 3
Sat Dec 14 Gateshead
Sat Dec 21 Altrincham
Thu Dec 26 Aldershot Town
JANUARY
Wed Jan 1 Maidenhead United
Sat Jan 11 Yeovil Town
Tue Jan 14 Dagenham & Redbridge
Sat Jan 18 Ebbsfleet United
Sat Jan 25 Hartlepool United
FEBRUARY
Sat Feb 1 Rochdale
Sat Feb 8 York City
Sat Feb 15 Tamworth
Tue Feb 18 Solihull Moors
Sat Feb 22 Forest Green Rovers
MARCH
Sat Mar 1 FC Halifax Town
Tue Mar 4 Southend United
Sat Mar 8 Boston United
Sat Mar 15 Barnet
Sat Mar 22 Wealdstone
Sat Mar 29 Braintree Town
APRIL
Sat Apr 5 Oldham Athletic
Sat Apr 12 AFC Fylde
Fri Apr 18 Maidenhead United
Mon Apr 21 Aldershot Town
Sat Apr 26 Eastleigh
MAY
Mon
MATCHDAY MASCOTS
BIRTHDAY BOY – LUKE BERRY
– Turning 11 tomorrow
Luke loves supporting his local team and tries to spot the Woking players when out and about.
SAM BERRY – 7
– Luke's brother
Very excited to be watching Woking for his older brother's birthday.
CHARLIE KERSTEN – 10
Excited to hang out with my friends and see my home team play for the first time!
ARJAN JUTLA – 11
Keen support of our local team, great to spend Luke's birthday party here!
NATE FERRIER – 10
Excited to enjoy Luke's birthday party and to see my local team!
BRAYDEN BULLEN – 10
Excited to support our local team, and we've got to support local!
SEBASTIAN WOODALL – 10
Looking forward to enjoying my friend's birthday party and to see my local team.
OSCAR HUTCHINS – 10
As a season ticket holder, Oscar is really looking forward to the game, with the added bonus of celebrating Luke's birthday!
JAMIE DORAN – 10
Excited to support my local team and celebrate Luke's birthday!
JACK HUMPHRIES – 10
Looking forward to support my local football team and celebrating Luke's birthday
MAX CLUNIS – 10
Is excited to celebrate Luke's birthday and supporting Woking.
CHARLIE MARSH - 7
Charlie is in love with the game of football. He started following Woking after his parents took him to a home game against
MASCOTS PACK AGE
There are two options available
Package One: Full Experience £120* (includes match shirt)
*Current season ticket holders receive a 10% discount (£108 total cost)
• 2024/25 match shirt
• Pre-match stadium tour
• Complimentary match day tickets for 1 adult and 1 child.
• Meet & Greet with photo opportunities with players
• Food & drink voucher.
• Kickabout pitch side as the players warm up.
• Digital programme feature
• Tannoy announcement
• Walk out with the players
• Picture with team captains and match officials
• A Woking FC representative present throughout
Package Two: Full Experience £80* (does not include match shirt)
*Current season ticket holders receive a 10% discount (£72 total cost) Includes all the above
A training top will be lent to the mascot to wear during the pitch-walk in the case that you do not have the current 24/25 match shirt.
Team Mascot Packages are available – please contact the club for more information.
Please note fixtures are subject to availability, If you have any further questions or special requests email simon.jones@wokingfc.co.uk
ACADEMY BULLETIN
UPCOMING FIXTURES
Week commencing 11th November 2024
Wednesday 13th November
12:00 - Bromley U17 v Woking U17
National League U19 Alliance – Division E Bromley FC, Hayes Lane
14:00 – Woking U19 v Slough Town U19
National League U19 Alliance – South Division Westfield FC, Woking Park
Thursday 14th November
19:30 – Woking U18 v South Park U18
Isthmian Youth League – Central Division Knaphill FC, Redding Way
Saturday 16th November
15:00 – Harrow Borough U21 v Woking U21
Suburban Football League – Premier Division Harrow Borough FC, Earlsmead, Carlyon Avenue
For up-to-date information on fixtures please refer to the Woking Football Club Academy X (twitter) page. Information is also available on the fulltime.thefa.com website.
MATCH REPORTS & TEAM DETAILS
Week commencing 4th November 2024
Wednesday 6th November
Welling U19 4 - 3 Woking U19 (Half-time 2-2)
National League U19 Alliance – South Division University of Greenwich (Avery Hill), Southwood Site, Avery Hill Road
Details for this game will be available in next week’s bulletin.
Woking U17 0 - 1 Winchester City
National League U19 Alliance Cup – Second Round, Westfield FC, Woking Park
Having received a bye in the first round of the competition, both the u17s and Winchester City were seeing their first minutes in the National League Alliance Cup at Westfield FC on Wednesday.
The game started evenly, which continued throughout much of the first half. A big chance for Woking to take the lead fell in the opening 10 minutes, with the travelling keeper being called into early action. An excellent shot at the back post, which looked destined to hit the back of the net, was superbly kept out by Winchester’s Finn Graydon, diving to his right to deny the home side an early advantage.
The first half remained balanced, with a 35thminute goal-line clearance being the closest Woking got to establishing a lead since the opening 10 minutes. In this, Frankie Bushby’s corner was nearly perfectly converted, but a Winchester City header stopped the ball from crossing the line to keep the scoreline level. Moments later, Tyrell Ejakita’s header looked bound for goal, but went just over the bar, hitting the outside roof of the net.
A goalless first-half ended without too many clear-cut chances for either side, despite Woking going close on a couple of occasions. These were all well defended by the travelling side, who made several well-timed challenges to prevent the majority of Woking’s attacks, and flashed the ball across the face of the goal on occasion to make for some nervy moments.
HALF-TIME:
WOKING 0 – 0 WINCHESTER CITY
The second half began much the same as the first, notably with Calum Mathieson returning to the field from injury, replacing Jojo Ampah in the 57th minute.
A huge chance for Woking fell just after the hour mark, as Ejakita broke through the defence and looked certain to give Woking the lead. Denied by the feet of the Winchester
City keeper, the deadlock remained yet to be broken.
And Winchester City left it late to do just that. With the game looking set to go straight to penalties, the Woking defence switched off, giving Winchester City an opportunity that they were then able to capitalise on.
A ball forward, which looked certain to be going out for a goal kick, and so was not immediately chased down by the home defence, was chased down by Pardesi, unknown to the home defence until it was too late, and kept in just before crossing the line.
The substitute then, under pressure from the retreating Kai Baverstock, slotted the ball past James Moore, who had come out to meet the shot, to give Winchester City a 91st-minute lead.
After the goal celebrations ceased, the game got back underway for the final few phases of play, with Woking earning a corner for what was their last chance to take the game to penalties.
Doing well to clear the corner, the sound of the full-time whistle saw celebrations amongst the travelling players and staff, with Winchester City progressing to the next round of the cup, whilst Woking suffered a disappointing cup exit.
Woking: James Moore, Kai Baverstock, Thomas Ward, Jack Owen, Pranish Gurang (Zack Rhioui 67) George Mattingley (Joe Scanlon 63), Brian Rai (Luca Di Manno 82), Joe Frawley, Frankie Bushby ©, Jojo Ampah (Calum Mathieson 57), Tyrell Ejakita. Unused Sub: Aaron Zziwa (GK).
Winchester City: Finlay Graydon, Alex Andries, Leo George Chance, Matthew Davies ©, Lewis Elvin, Rudy Kilbride, Oscar Anthony McCulloch, Luke Simkin, Louis James Thompson, Alex Vine, Joshua Holebrook. Subs: Oliver Kimble, Keaton James Lane, John Oddoye, Arjun Pardesi.
Goal: Pardesi 90+1.
Referee: Paz Morreale.
Thursday 7th November
Woking U18 5 - 1 Leatherhead U18 Isthmian Youth League – Central Division Knaphill FC, Redding Way
Having left it until 90+4 minutes to find the winner last week, this was a more accomplished and promising performance from Woking’s Isthmian Central League team. The benefits of a settled team playing together regularly starting to reap rewards.
Woking nearly had the lead in the first minute, Jalil Page’s header from Seyi Akinwalere’s cross crashing back off the bar, before Roshan Kigozi put a shot wide. Leo Hams did get a shot away when Joel Jennison-Leppa missed his clearance, but it was straight at Aaron Zziwa, and Woking were in the ascendency.
Amario Malhotra, Kigozi and Akinwalere were involved in some excellent attacking passing as Woking sought the breakthrough, with Will Ledbury and Page adding to the increased pressure. On 13 minutes Leatherhead were still reorganising after a goalmouth scramble when Page’s pass put in Kigozi to side-foot home into an empty net.
Woking’s centre-backs looked to be in control, with Louie Boyle providing excellent cover from wing-back on the one occasion they did look to be in trouble. Woking were falling into the offside trap more often than one would hope, but soon had their second. On 28 minutes Page was on target from Akinwalere’s cross, meeting it neatly to send a right-foot shot unstoppably into the net.
Having come close to putting the finishing touch on an excellent Woking break minutes before Kigozi had his second, and Woking’s third, on 41 minutes. A great Ledbury ball across the box and Kigozi comfortably drilled home left-footed past Adam Withers. This confident and composed finishing in some contrast to the struggles of their fellow firstyears the day before.
Unfortunately, Kigozi had to leave the field as a precaution against cramp developing into anything worse, but it was good to see Jack Tricker returning having left the pitch with sickness last week. A straightforward half for Woking, who were better all over the pitch, in no real danger of conceding, and looked dangerous going forwards.
HALF-TIME: WOKING 3 – 0 LEATHERHEAD
Leatherhead scored what would turn out to be their consolation goal within three minutes of the restart. Whilst Woking were surprised that a free-kick was not awarded for a challenge on Dillan Davies, Leo Hams did not hesitate when the ball broke to him, hitting on the turn into the bottom corner.
Woking responded by restoring their three-goal cushion, a long ball through the middle didn’t initially look dangerous, but Page held off the defender as he ran on, and as he entered the
penalty area fired the ball across Withers into the corner of the net.
Within five minutes of conceding Woking had their fifth, Malhotra was fouled just outside the corner of the penalty area, and Ledbury curled the free-kick sweetly into the far top corner, Withers clutching at thin air, a fantastic strike.
Woking continued to play well, without adding to the scoring, their substitutes all contributing to the ongoing good play. On 81 minutes Frankie Bushby saw his shot to the top corner tipped around the post, and on 88 minutes Bruno Dackombe hit the post from the edge of the area, very unlucky with a fine drive. In added time Calum Mathieson, whose skill and pace had been causing problems since his introduction, saw a couple of half-chances go astray, but a comfortable win for the Cards had long-since been beyond doubt.
Woking: Aaron Zziwa, Ollie Rigby, Dillan Davies (Joe Frawley 79), Joel Jennison-Leppa, Louie Boyle (c), Amario Malhotra, Will Ledbury (Frankie Bushby 79), Roshan Kigozi (Jack Tricker 45+3), Bruno Dackombe, Seyi Akinwalere (Calum Mathieson 61), Jalil Page. Unused subs: James Moore (GK), Tyrell Ejakita.
Goals: Kigozi 13, 41, Page 28, 50, Ledbury 53.
Leatherhead: Adam Withers, Dylan Clift, Ron Spinks, Archie Searle (c), Gabe Jacks, Freddie Hayes, Ryley Merrett (Reggie Fuller 77), Jonny Carter (Sam Newton 73), Cristiano Barreca (Dan Rumbold 54), Anex Varghese, Leo Hams. Unused sub: Skye Graham.
Goal: Hams 48.
Referee: Paz Morreale.
LOAN (DUAL REGISTERED PLAYERS) WATCH:
Tuesday 5th November
Lui Edwards, Forward, 4th year –Westfield: Was substituted after 90 minutes of the 1 – 3 defeat at Horndean in the Isthmian League - South Central Division.
Saturday 9th November
Lui Edwards, Forward, 4th year –Westfield: Was substituted after 90+3 minutes of the 2 – 1 victory over Sutton Common Rovers in the Isthmian League - South Central Division.
Ben Mitchell, Forward, 3rd yearKnaphill: No fixture this weekend.
FURTHER NEWS:
Tuesday 5th November
Leo Christophers, Midfield, 1st year – Congratulations to Leo on his appearance for Woking in t heir National League Cup fixture against Southampton U21s. Leo came on as a substitute after 81 minutes of the 4 – 4 draw.
ACADEMY
The Woking FC Academy has been operating in its current format for over a decade with the aim of helping talented young footballers make progress into the club's first team set up or in their sporting careers whilst continuing with their academic studies.
For the 2024/25 season, the youth and academy setup runs in three stages; a pre-academy for six to nine-year-olds, a youth academy for nine to 16-year-olds, and a full-time academy for talented young players above the age of 16, including an education plan.
The Academy works with the Football Club's partner charitable and community organisation, Cardinals in the Community (CITC).
Notable academy graduates in recent history include Woking legends Craig Ross and Joe McNerney, Wrexham's Ollie Palmer, and exChelsea and now-Reading's Jayden Wareham.
PRE-ACADEMY
The Pre-Academy is for the very youngest players, covering U7s, U8s and U9s. Meeting once a week, players train and learn in a fun and friendly environment under the watchful eye of our coaches. Players that show real talent have the opportunity to progress to Woking FC Academy Youth.
The Pre-Academy trains at The Winston Churchill School in Woking, Thursdays, 17:00 - 18:00.
YOUTH ACADEMY
Starting with U9s and progressing through the age groups right up to U16s, players train with our Academy coaches and have the opportunity to play competitively in the Junior Premier League. Training is held twice weekly at CITC’s sports hub, within the grounds of Woking College, and matches are played on Saturdays. At this level, players are able to continue playing for their grassroots clubs.
As with the main Academy, players receive a progress report twice per season, which helps identify areas of their game to work on and improve. U16s players are assessed throughout the season with a view to being invited to join Woking FC Academy.
WOKING FC ACADEMY
Woking FC Academy is a National League licensed academy. We aim to develop each and every player to reach their full potential, instilling ambition and a professional attitude. We work as closely as possible to Category 3 Academy standards, creating a professional environment in which players thrive.
Players train 5-6 hours per week at CITC’s sports hub. Their development is supported by video analysis of training and matches, group workshops and strength and conditioning sessions. One-to-one reviews are held twice every season, along with player reports so that both the coaching staff and the players themselves have a clear focus on individual development.
Woking FC Academy plays competitive matches in the U18 Isthmian League, U19 National League and also have the opportunity to play in U23 fixtures. Players in our Elite Development Plan (EDP) compete in the Tactic League and National B League. Cup competitions are a feature of the fixture calendar. Pre-season training includes friendlies and there are opportunities to travel abroad for football tours and tournaments, including the Gothia Cup.
Our football timetable is planned in conjunction with players’ education. Academy players can
choose to attend Woking College or focus on gaining the NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, which is delivered by SCL Education at Westfield FC. Players on the EDP pathway study towards the NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (equivalent to 3 A levels) with SCL.
AGE GROUP COMPETITIONS
Under 23s - Second and third years (and progressing first years)
Play in: Suburban Football League - Premier Division
Home games: Knaphill FC, Thursdays, 19:30
Under 19s - Second and third years (and progressing first years)
National League U19 Alliance - Academy South Division
Home games: Westfield FC, weekdays, daytime
Under 19B - predominantly U17s - first years
National League U19 Alliance - Division E Woking College, weekdays, daytime
Under 18s - predominantly U17s - first years
Pitching In Isthmian Football League - Youth West Division
Knaphill FC, Thursdays, 19:30
Players will also have the chance to represent the academy in the prestigious FA Youth Cup.
Over 90%* of UCFB graduates find fulltime employment within 6 months of graduating with two thirds of those working in football and sport * UCFB internal
Turn your passion for football into a career with the University Campus of Football Business where you can study a wide range of courses with access to iconic stadiums and global summits . Scan here for more information and how to apply or visit UCFB.ac.uk
UCFB alumni have worked in each of the 20 Premier League clubs and over 50 of the 72 EFL clubs
The course has been exceptional for learning so many skills within the industry. The lecturers and module leaders have all really guided me on my journey, and I wouldn’t be where I am now without the help that UCFB has given me.
Rio
Rosenberg
BA (Hons) Football Business and Media student and Women’s Content Creator at Chelsea FC
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