Woking FC v Maidenhead United by Hashtag Digital Media

NE AL ARDLEY

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 kick off 2025 with the visit of Maidenhead United to the Laithwaite on New Year’s Day.

Neal Ardley has picked up four points from his opening two games as boss, having seen his side score more than once in back-to-back league games for the first time since August. However, his options will again be limited with just Cian Harries and Tunji Akinola available as central defenders, whilst Ben Wynter, Max Dyche, Timi Odusina and Dan Moss all remain sidelined.

With this being the first of three consecutive home games in a week, and four games in ten days in total, Ardley will hope to build on the Cards’ 2-2 draw at rivals Aldershot Town on Boxing Day.

OPPOSITION WATCH

Alan Devonshire could bring up ten years of service at York Road in May, provided he continues to keep Maidenhead United punching above their weight in the National League. Favourites for the drop every season, the Magpies keep their heads above water courtesy of a few big scalps, in which a former EFL club will be ‘Devonshire’d’ and his side will survive relegation.

Off-the-pitch news surrounding the club has been mixed. Max Kilman’s transfer to West Ham banked his former club a serious windfall of the multi million pound transfer fee, but their plans to use it to depart the relic that is York Road have been scuppered by the local council.

On it, Maidenhead find themselves in a similar position. A much-needed Boxing Day win over Wealdstone was a big boost, as only goal

Woking vs Maidenhead United Vanarama National League

Wednesday 1st January 2025 15:00 Kick-Off

difference keeps Braintree Town above them and in the first safety spot of 20th. With York, Altrincham and Barnet to play in January, the Magpies will be hoping that they can ‘Devonshire’ another team trying to gatecrash the EFL.

Ten points collected from 12 away games is three better than the Cards’ return on their travels, having defeated Braintree, Boston and Southend on the road thus far. Shawn McCoulsky leads the club scoring charts with seven ahead of Tristan Abrahams and Reece Smith on five each: expect Smith to attract some EFL interest in the January window after backing up his 11 goal return last season.

AROUND THE GROUND

Tickets are available here

Please note that Victoria Way is shut with diversions in place, so we advise fans to leave plenty of time to get to the ground on Saturday..

LAST TIME OUT

Surprisingly, these sides didn’t meet in 2024, with both fixtures last season coming before the New Year. Two scoreless draws apiece contributed two points to each side’s final tally as both left it relatively late to secure safety.

In 2022/23, Woking were victorious at the Laithwaite thanks to Luke Wilkinson and Padraig Amond, whilst Maidenhead were victorious at York Road by a 1-0 scoreline.

There have been 22 fixtures between the sides since 2009, with Woking winning nine, Maidenhead eight and five draws.

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

So C IAL

@wokingfc

Frank opening his account in Woking colours. Beauts making no mistake from 12 yards.

Woking Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Simon Bassey as assistant coach.

It finishes level on Boxing Day. Frank Vincent put us back in front early in the second half, before the hosts then got their second.

@wokingfc

We are back in action in the FA Trophy on Saturday 4th January, against National League North side Radcliffe FC.

Wishing all you Cardinals a Merry Christmas!

H. Beautyman, 14’ (P)

F. Vincent, 50’

T. Frost, 28’ J. Barrett, 67'

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.

11. Dennon Lewis 16. Tunji Akinola 15. Adam Chicksen Sponsor available Sponsor available Sponsor available

Sponsor available

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

JUNIOR CARDS

UPCOMING AWAY COACH TRAVEL

Supporters Coaches

YEOVIL TOWN

11th January 2025 TBC

DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE 14th January TBC

If you are interested in travelling to an away game via the coach then please contact adam.bowyer@cardstrust.co.uk.

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

Freddie Oakley - 21st December - 10 years old Beau Syebbings - 28th December - 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

December draw

£100 Number 34 Don Irwin

£75 Number 119 Derek Stevenson

£50 Number 295 Jana Phillips

Congratulations to the winners!

To learn more and take part please contact john. hooker@cardstrust.co.uk

CHRISTMAS DRAW

The lucky winner is Jennifer Tombs who takes home the £500 prize! Congratulations! 400 club units are just £12 each. To learn more and take part please contact john.hooker@cardstrust. co.uk

NEW fAN WALL

THE CARDS TRUST LAUNCHES A 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 clicking here (simple loginfree 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. Update - Thanks to the generous support of The Platinum Table new plaques for Geoff Chapple, Barry Kimber and Colin Lippiatt have been placed at the heart of our Fan Wall.

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A team you can count on

Our team of experts work every day to make the UK healthier, happier, fitter and stronger. At Nuffield Health Woking hospital, we take a personalised approach to help you see a consultant in as little as 24 hours.

Nuffield Health Woking Hospital are introducing robotic arm-assisted precision surgery for orthopaedic surgery.

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With our highly experienced surgeons working in harmony with state-of-the-art equipment, the hip and knee replacement surgery we offer has evolved – bringing patients a range of enhanced benefits. The result: even greater surgical precision, leading to improved outcomes, decreased pain and faster patient recovery.

For further information visit nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/woking or call 01483 227 800.

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

Tue Dec 10 Havant & Waterlooville

Sat Dec 14 Gateshead

Sat Dec 21 Altrincham

Thu Dec 26 Aldershot Town

JANUARY

Wed Jan 1 Maidenhead United

Sat Jan 4 Radcliffe

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 May 5 Sutton United

INTERACTiVE QUiz

MATCHDAY MASCoTS

bertie

He loves coming to support the cards as it’s a great local club + he can come with all his friends and are always close to the action. The hotdogs aren’t bad either!

luke

I have been a Woking season ticket holder for the last 2 years and love coming to the matches. My favourite players are Matt Ward, Max Dyche and Will Jaaskelainen. I’m looking forward to meeting the players and being a mascot today!

HAPPY BiRTHDAY

lucaS JONeS (Age 13)

Fave teams: Woking & West Ham

Enjoy every moment of your teenage years. The teen years are your path to becoming the grown-up you are meant to be, — Love Dad

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

The next academy fixtures are in the week commencing 6th January 2025

MONDAY 6TH JANUARY

19:45 - Metropolitan Police U18 v Woking U18

Isthmian League - Central Division Imber Court Sports Club, Ember Lane, East Molesey, KT8 0BT

WEDNESDAY 8TH JANUARY

14:00 – Woking U19 v Dorking Wanderers U19

National League Academy – South Division Westfield FC, Woking Park

14:00 – Boreham Wood Blues v Woking U17

National League Alliance – Division E Meadow Park, Broughinge Road, Borehamwood, WD6 5AL

THURSDAY 9TH JANUARY

19:30 – Woking U18 v Hanworth Villa U18

Surrey FA U18’s Youth Floodlit Midweek County Cup Knaphill FC, Redding Way

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 REPORT & TEAM DETAILS

Week commencing 16th December 2024

WEDNESDAY 18TH DECEMBER 2024

Oxford City U19 2 - 1 Woking U10

National League Academy Cup – First Round Court Place Farm, Marsh Lane

Two trips to Oxford in two weeks for the u19s saw a repeat of the most recent National League Academy South fixture (in which City triumphed 2-0), this time in the League Cup.

City got off to a strong start, showing their attacking threat within the opening stages of the clash. A burst forward in the third minute, with the City attack getting around Jacob Farr and into the box before it was defended, was an early warning for the travelling side of the Hoops’ ability in attack. A fist from Mikey Verga eliminated the threat from the corner, but it wasn’t long before City were on the break again.

Just minutes later, Caleb Moir went on a driving run forward, which resulted in a corner for the

home side. With the initial shot from the corner blocked, Woking failed to clear the danger, and a shot from Charlie Bacon on the left-hand side of the box flew past Verga to give City a 6thminute lead.

Continuing this momentum, City looked set to make it two in the 9th minute, with Bacon turning in the box, and getting his shot away unchallenged, but Verga was equal to it.

Woking grew into the game, with a decent chance to equalise in the 11th minute after Leo Christophers’ ball looped over the top for Jalil Page to run on to. Initially well-defended by City, the ball fell for Tom Dryer whose effort went over the bar, with no real threat to Thomas Russell’s goal.

Despite a few promising moves forward, the next clear-cut chance for Woking came after Henry McDonald went down just outside the box, winning a free kick. A low effort from McDonald went under the wall, but Russell read the attempt well and was able to collect the ball without much trouble.

Straight down the other end, City showcased their threat on the counterattack once again, flashing the ball across Verga’s goal, but with no one there to get the final touch. In the 22nd minute, Verga was called into action again, after City found themselves through on goal Verga came out and blocked the shot with his legs, limiting the damage for Woking.

Just moments later, Bacon charged forward again and, after originally being beaten, Charlie Sweeney recovered well to put in a tackle that, for the moment, eliminated the threat.

After several City attacks, Farr and Dryer combined down the left-hand side to start an attack of their own. The cross from Farr was

turned in from close range by Christophers in the 26th minute, which wiped out City’s early advantage.

City, however, did not drop the threat. Verga was forced into another save with his legs in the 30th minute after another corner from City, and another City corner in the 34th minute saw a header flash just wide.

Woking went close to going ahead in the 38th minute, with a great cross into the box from Dryer finding Page, who was putting Russell under high pressure. The touch from Page, however, wasn’t enough to find the back of the net, and the home ‘keeper collected.

Moments later, Seyi Akinwalere charged forward, with the City defence throwing themselves in front of the ball to successfully block the shot. Involved in attack again, Akinwalere flashed a ball across the face of the goal in the 43rd minute, but no one was there to get the final touch. He then received the ball in close range and tried to slot one into the far post, with the shot going narrowly wide.

In City’s final chance of the half, Verga had to make another save, with the resulting ball threatening to go anywhere, but in the end it was defended for a corner.

Three minutes into stoppage time, Woking had the final move forward of the half. Lucas Boxall won the ball back and passed to Akinwalere, but a poor touch saw City win the ball back, actioning the half-time whistle.

Half-time: Oxford City 1 – 1 Woking

Woking started the second half well, firstly with a chance for Page to make an impression on goal. In the 48th minute, Verga put a promising ball forward, which Page closed down, but the ball ran all the way through to Russell.

Dryer made his impression on the Oxford defence early in the second 45, making two strong tackles in quick succession which set him on his way forward, but both were flagged as a foul by the linesman.

In the 54th minute, McDonald put a good ball into the box after a great run forward, but Boxall couldn't get there to get the final touch. Just moments later, Boxall won a free kick just outside the box, presenting Woking with another good chance to go ahead. McDonald stood over it again, but this time was less of a threat to Russell’s goal, as the ball went all the way over the top of the box and out of play.

In the 60th minute, Boxall made another run forward, but the cross was overhit and, much like the previous free kick, the ball went over the top and out of play.

Entering the last half an hour, City continued the pressure. Verga did well in the 62nd minute to come out of his box and make the ball his, clearing it away from the City attack.

Moments later, Tommy Seale misread the ball on the edge of the City box, allowing City to break forward. The home side, however, lacked the quality needed in the final shot, firing over the bar which kept the scoreline level.

It didn’t stay that way for long, however, as City regained their lead just a minute later. Bacon made a great run forward in the 64th minute and placed a ball perfectly for substitute Mekhai Bessasa-Grant to hit first time and restore his side's advantage.

In almost the perfect response for Woking, Dryer and Boxall linked up in decent play forward to put pressure on the City defence. After the initial attack was defended, Ryan Scott’s effort from the edge of the area went just wide of the top left corner and the search for an equaliser continued.

City came close to three in the 70th minute, with a header that looked to be going wide, but instead, it clipped the post, another warning for Woking.

Another free kick won for Woking in the 71st minute saw Boxall taken down on the righthand side of the box, with Seale set to take. Seale pulled the ball back to Boxall, who put a promising ball into the box, but yet again the shot was well defended by City, who retained their lead.

In the 76th minute, Verga made a great reactive save to keep his side's hopes of progression in the competition alive. A free kick from midway into the half was sent deep into the back post, with the effort needing to be met by Verga to deny the hosts a third. Moments later, Woking were awarded yet another free kick as Scott was taken down not far from the edge of the penalty area. Boxall stood over it again, but this time the ball was headed away by City and made its way back to Farr as the young Cards looked to recycle the ball.

Shortly after this, Sweeney went down in the middle of the park, causing a brief stop in play, which resulted in him being substituted, with the injury hopefully not set to be too extensive.

Harvey Brook came on to replace the defender, putting an extra man forward for the final 10 minutes as Woking searched for an equaliser. Another chance in the 82nd minute saw Seale’s corner headed goalward by Christophers, but it was collected well by Russell to deny the visitors.

Still in search of a third, City went close again, this time with Bessasa-Grant, who received the ball from Bacon on the edge of the box, but placed his shot just wide, which made for a nervy final few minutes for City as Woking desperately searched for their equaliser.

In the 88th minute, a ball flashed across the City goal and was just out of Brook’s reach, and straight down the other end City threatened Verga once again. Bacon placed another decent ball into the box, with Verga getting his body in the way of the shot in a great save.

With Woking through on goal in the 90th minute, Russell had to come out to meet Brook’s run. Brook got the ball past Russell on the first attempt, but the home ‘keeper reacted quickly and pounced on the ball on the second time of asking to deny Brook a shot at an empty target.

The 97th minute saw the final chance for Woking to keep their chances in the competition alive. Akinwalere’s cross found Boxall perfectly in the box, but his volley was directed straight into the arms of Russell, in the last attacking play of the game.

The full-time whistle saw the young Cards knocked out of the competition in the first round. The academy returns to action in the new year with four games across the week of 6th January.

Oxford City: Thomas Russell ©, Rafa Dos-Santos, Caleb Moir, Freddy Joyce, Kyron Webb (Edward Odley 89), Endri Stathi (Hamza Al-Jabari 85), Kian Duggan (Mekhai Bessasa-Grant 56), Brayden Daniel (Aydin Ulas 72), Finlay Beckett, Charlie Bacon, Kauan Bitencourt de Oliveira (Josh McConnell 69).

Goals: Bacon 6, Bessasa-Grant 64.

Woking: Mikey Verga, Jack Lewis (Ryan Scott 58), Tom Gardner ©, Charlie Sweeney (Harvey Brook 81), Jacob Farr, Seyi Akinwalere, Leo Christophers, Henry McDonald (Tommy Seale 58), Tom Dryer, Lucas Boxall, Jalil Page. Unused subs: Harry White (GK), Jermaine Young.

Goal: Christophers 26.

Referee: Nigel George.

LOAN (DUAL REGISTERED PLAYERS) WATCH:

Tuesday 17th December

Harry White, Goalkeeper, 2nd year –Sandhurst Town: Played the full game in the 2 – 1 victory at Epsom & Ewell in the Combined Counties League - Premier Division South (Step 5).

Wednesday 18th December

Lui Edwards, Forward, 4th year – Westfield: Played the full game in the 1 – 1 draw with Hayes & Yeading United in the Isthmian League - South Central Division (Step 4).

Saturday 21st December

Ellis Byrne, Central Midfield, 2nd yearKnaphill: Making his Knaphill debut, Ellis played the full game of the 3 – 1 victory over Camberley Town in the Combined Counties League – Premier Division South (Step 5).

Lui Edwards, Forward, 4th year – Westfield: Played 63 minutes of the 0 – 1 defeat to Harrow Borough in the Isthmian LeagueSouth Central Division (Step 4).

Ben Mitchell, Forward, 3rd year - Knaphill: Played the first half of the 3 – 1 victory over Camberley Town in the Combined Counties League – Premier Division South (Step 5).

Byron Mitchell, Forward, 2nd year –Sheerwater: No fixture.

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.

Supporting Small Businesses

WOkING Fc

MANAGER: NEAL ARDLEY

DAN MOSS

JACOB JONES

CIAN HARRIES

TIMI ODUSINA

JAMIE ANDREWS

HARRY BEAUTYMAN

DALE GORMAN

LEWIS WALKER

DENNON LEWIS

INIH EFFIONG

ADAM CHICKSEN

TUNJI AKINOLA

MATT WARD

RAHEEM CONTE

JACK STRETTON

ALAN JUDGE

BEN WYNTER

WILL JÄÄSKELÄINEN

JERMAINE ANDERSON

TOM DRYER

DION KELLY-EVANS

OLLIE WEBBER

TOM LEAHY

FRANK VINCENT

MAX DYCHE

ROHAN INCE

ma ID e NHe a D ut D Fc

MANAGER: ALAN DEVONSHIRE

HARVEY COLLINS

ZAC BELL

TYRESE DYCE

WILL DE HAVILLAND

KEVIN LOKKO

THIERRY LATTY-FAIRWEATHER

RUBEN CARVALHO

NATHAN FERGUSON

SHAWN MCCOULSKY

KANE FERDINAND

JAYDEN MITCHELL-LAWSON

BRADLEY KEETCH

CRAIG ROSS

TOBI SHO-SILVA

SOUL HALE

CASEY PETTIT

REECE SMITH

OWEN COCHRANE

REMY CLERIMA

AIDAN COYNE

MILES WELCH-HAYES

TRISTAN ABRAHAMS

ALAN MASSEY

SAM BARRATT

JADYN DUNDAS

MANNY ONARIASE

JOSEPH AJOSE

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RADCLIFFE FC 4th JAN | 15:00