Woking Football Club Limited is a private company limited by shares registered in England, company number 03329172. Material shareholders holding in excess of 10% of the Ordinary shares of Woking Football Club Limited are currently Mr. Peter Jordan, who controls 46%, The Cardinals Supporters’ Society (Chairman Mr. Rupert Phillips) which controls 23% and Final Third Sport UK (Shareholding Directors Mr. Dwight Volpe and Mr John Katz) and which controls 14% of the voting rights in the Company.
Board of Directors: Drew Volpe, John Katz, Dave Curtis, Gareth Farrell, George Burnett
Chief Operating Officer: Dave Curtis
Company Secretary: George Burnett
Honorary Vice President: Peter Jordan
Club Ambassador: Geoff Chapple
Business Development Director: Simon Jones
Accounts & Finance Manager: Pam Stevenson
Food & Beverage Manager: Evie Carey
Sales Administrator: Issac Allen-Harris
Media Lead: Jonnie Green
Safety Officer: Amelia Tyson
Ticketing & Operations Executive: Sheena Nichol
Shop Manager: Ben Cavey
Club Chaplain: Ian Nicholson
WELCOME
Greetings, and welcome back to the Laithwaite Community Stadium as we host Wealdstone at the Laithwaite Community Stadium for Match Day 9.
A testy Tuesday night league game saw us secure all 3 points against Wealdstone, sending us up to 8th after 8 games. Today we welcome Oldham to the Laithwaite Community Stadium. With only two points separating us, and over 300 Oldham fans expected to be in attendance, as always, we’ll need our Cards army in full voice as Michael and the lads. The sun is shining, so let’s pack out the Laithwaite and make some noise!
Club in the Community
The club were delighted to attend Seymours Annual Golf Day in aid of Woking Sam Beare Hospice on Tuesday 12th September. It was a great day by all involved, with club volunteers and ex-legends taking to the green at West Byfleet Golf Course courtesy of Seymours kind invitation. Michael and Ben joined the fundraising efforts in the evening, with John from Seymours hosting a Q&A in front of packed audience, much to the delight of those in attendance. The club are committed to strengthening our incredible partnership with Seymours and WSBH this season, so keep
an eye out for lots of exciting initiatives over the coming months.
The club are also delighted to announce a new partnership with mental health services charity Oakleaf. This wonderful charity, based in Guildford, provides critical services to much of Surrey and we will be offering work experience opportunities, venue services and fundraising platforms for Oakleaf – lots more info to follow!
As the Business Development Team continues to take shape, I am keen to hear from fans with any feedback (good or bad!), ideas or inspirations – drop me a note at simon.jones@ wokingfc.co.uk
Kind regards,
Simon Jones Business Development Director
GEOFF PARSONS 1931-2024
Legendary, Wembley winning left back
Geoff Parsons played 309 games for Woking, predominantly as a left back, and was a key part of the legendary 1958 team which beat Ilford 3-0 at Wembley to win the FA Amateur Cup in front of over 70,000 fans.
Geoff emigrated to Australia and passed away in Rockingham, Western Australia on Wednesday 8th May 2024; he was 93.
Geoff’s son Nick comments ‘dad’s 1958 Amateur Cup winning medal was one of his most treasured possessions. He also enjoyed looking through the photo album with all the photos and clippings of that amazing day at the old Wembley. It was
a nice touch that, on the day he passed away, his Care Home dressed him in his replica Woking shirt; he had such fond memories of his time at the club.’ Martin Tyler recalls ‘Geoff was an ultra-reliable left-back and occasionally played up front --as he did in a Surrey Senior Cup Final at Selhurst Park in 1957--when all the big -hitters were away on international duty. Woking beat Wimbledon 4-2 and Geoff was among the scorers. I was 11 and I was there!' Today we remember and honour a legendary Woking player and our thoughts continue to be with his family and friends. RIP Geoff Parsons.
John was an agricultural engineer whose passions included steam trains, Leatherhead FC, West Ham United and, of course Woking Football Club. John followed the Cards home and away and was a regular on Moaners Corner and on the Supporters Coach.
John was husband to Eileen, father to Susan, Linda and Helen, Grandad to Aimie, Sasha, Tom, George, Emily and Harrison and great grandad to Amelia and Teddy. He followed Tom and George and Teddy throughout their football careers rarely missing a match. One memorable moment was when he was surprised by a vintage Routemaster
bus for his 80th birthday. It was full of friends and family and took him to Woking FC where a football match was held in his honour by all the boys that he had supported from his grandsons’ teams over the years. This was followed by afternoon tea in the Cardinals Bar – a truly fitting celebration for a much-loved man.
We welcome many of John’s family here today – some of whom have travelled from overseas. The family are sponsoring todays match ball in memory of John, a true Cardinal who will be much missed. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time. RIP John Covey.
MANAGER
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 will look to build on three consecutive home wins and backto-back clean sheets when they host Oldham Athletic on Saturday.
The transformation in home form at the Laithwaite has been evident since Michael Doyle took over, with the Cards now having tasted victory in eight of their last ten home league games, but promotion hopefuls Oldham will provide a different test to that of their opponents so far.
After making three changes to the side on Tuesday night, Doyle will have plenty of options to chop and change against the Latics, with Deon Moore also back from international duty.
OPPOSITION WATCH
Woking vs Oldham Athletic Vanarama National League
Saturday 14th September 2024
15:00 Kick-Off
after a positive start with two wins and no goals conceded, Oldham are now winless in six.
In extremely rare circumstances however, Oldham have lost just once this season, with five of their last six games all ending 1-1. Draws against Fylde, Gateshead, Altrincham, Southend and Halifax have frustrated supporters, with the Latics’ most recent draw at the Shay on Tuesday night putting pressure on Mellon and his players.
Charsley and Monthe share the accolade for ‘top scorer’ with two goals apiece, and Otis Khan, signed from Grimsby, will miss this fixture after being sent off at the Shay.
AROUND THE GROUND
Tickets are available to purchase online here. The new third kit is also on sale in the club shop, which opens as soon as gates open.
LAST TIME OUT
Last season can only be described as disappointing from an Oldham point of view. After a blockbuster summer window which included the signing of the prolific James Norwood, a slow start saw David Unsworth sacked in September 2023. The vastly experienced Micky Mellon came in, but despite a good run of form at the back end of the year, Oldham were inconsistent and finished 10th, comfortably outside the playoffs.
The response has been more additions and more departures over the summer, with the likes of former Woking full-back Jake Caprice, Newport midfielder Harry Charsley and Northampton defender Manny Monthe all on board, but
Jermaine Anderson’s goal just after half time gave the Cards a crucial three points at Boundary Park back in January, with the same scoreline favouring the Latics in the reverse fixture at the Laithwaite in November 2023.
There have been just two other meetings between the sides since Oldham were relegated out of the EFL in 2022, with one win apiece in the 2022/23 season; Woking winning the home fixture 3-0 before falling to a late 1-0 defeat at Boundary Park in the reverse.
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
S OC IAL
Woking Football Club is excited to reveal the adidas third shirt for the 2024/25 season.
Calm. Cian
C. Harries, 31 (P)
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.
Greater surgical precision, better outcomes and less time spent in hospital.
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.
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
18. Raheem Conte
Rohan Ince
17. Matt Ward
16. Tunji Akinola
10. Lewis Walker
14. Deon Moore
20. Josh Smith 23. Jermaine Anderson
John Keeley
Dan Rowe
Ben Turner
Michael Doyle
Malcolm Jobling
Thinesh
Bringing Your Opto-Mechanical Ideas To Life.
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To find out more, scan our QR code
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.
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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.
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 Emirates FA Cup 4Q
Sat Oct 19 Tamworth
Tue Oct 22 Solihull Moors
Sat Oct 26 Forest Green Rovers
NOVEMBER
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 May 5 Sutton United
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
Please note that this season we have changed U16 prices to U18 pricesThe Supporters Coach to Braintree sold out, Thank you to those that travelled.
AWAY TRAVEL
AFC Flyde No Coach for this match
Eastleigh CLICK HERE
Tamworth CLICK HERE
Solihul Moors CLICK HERE
All coaches are subject to having enough bookings to run. Please book in advance!
JUNIOR CARDS
Membership is open for season 2024/25 and still only £10! Please join up or renew here: CLICK HERE
BIRTHDAYS
Woody Boon, 16th September , 2 years old Ella Savage, 20th September, 12 years old
400 CLUB
The August draw has been made using a random Number Calculator, (see below). The winning numbers are:
£100 Number 100 Matthew Erskine (Kindly donated to the Greg Olley fund)
£75 Number 60 Bill Sutton
£50 Number 354 Matthew Glide
Congratulations to the winners. To take part, contact john.hooker@cardstrust.co.uk
Cards Trust AGM
The Cards Trust AGM will take place at 19:30, Wednesday 2nd October in the Cardinals Bar. Members will receive an email or letter soon with further details.
MATCHDAY MASCOT
Alfie Chesnais, 11.
Alfie Is a massive Woking fan and has been coming to games for the last 5 years with his dad, brother, pops, uncles and cousins.
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 9th September 2024
Wednesday 11th September
14:00 - Woking U19 v Dartford U19
National League Alliance – Academy South Westfield FC, Woking Park
14:00 – Dorking Wandrs U17 v Woking U17
National League Alliance – Division E Redhill FC, Kiln Brow, Three Arch Road, Redhill
Thursday 12th September
19:30 – Aldershot Town U18 v Woking U18
Isthmian Youth League Cup 24-25, 2nd Round. Knaphill FC, Redding Way
Saturday 14th September
15:00 – AFC Dunstable U21 v Woking U21
Suburban Football League Premier Division Creasey Park Community Football Centre, Dunstable
Sunday 15th September
14:00 Bournemouth Sports Reserves v Woking Women
Southern Region – Division One South
Bournemouth Sports Club Development, Chapel Gate, East Parley
For up-to-date information on fixtures please refer to the Woking Football Club Academy twitter page, and the Woking Football Club Women’s Twitter page.
MATCH REPORTS
Week commencing 2nd September
Wednesday 4th September
Woking U17 3 - 2 Hertford Town Whites Woking College, Rydens Way
Last season both games between these two sides finished 3 – 2 to Woking. This was another close match, with chances for both sides, but when Hertford went 2 – 0 up halfway through the second-half it looked like they were turning their having the upper hand in to a victory. With time running out it started to look like they had completed the win, but there was a dramatic twist to come.
Hertford nearly had the lead in the first minute, winning the ball with their quick press after Woking’s kick-off, and playing to George Kingham whose shot was well saved by Aaron Zziwa. Within 5 minutes Zziwa would be making another good save down to his right, this time from Dylan Colletti. Colletti went on to trouble Woking throughout with his movement infield from the left side of midfield.
Woking came in to the game more, starting to match Hertford’s passing, getting forwards Roshan Kigozi and Jojo Ampah in to the game, and Ampah dragged his shot wide after good build-up play from Brian Rai and Frankie Bushby. Ampah’s hold-up play helping his teammates out on more than one occasion.
The sides exchanged chances, Colletti set up Lucas Titchmarsh, but Zziwa was equal to his shot. Ampah shot wide when the rebound from Kigozi’s shot fell to him. Zziwa held well from Kingham’s
shot, his secure handling proving important throughout. Colletti played in Titchmarsh, who was thwarted by a fine covering challenge from Kai Baverstock.
On 28 minutes Hertford captain Fionn O’Connell was given too much space and his shot from 30 yards hit the top of the bar. Woking were having to work hard to counteract their opponent’s movement, and seemed to be struggling to get their own passing game going, but did create a chance for Ampah although his shot was straight at Sonny May.
Hertford were getting the upper hand as the half drew to a close, Colletti testing Zziwa on 3 further occasions, with Ben Nichols also calling the Woking ‘keeper in to action, and Woking were relieved to see a free kick awarded for a foul on Zziwa when Hertford did get the ball in to the net.
Hertford would go to half-time wondering how they were not in the lead, Zziwa proving a great frustration, especially to Colletti, with whom he seemed to be having something of a personal duel. There was work to be done for the Woking coaching team.
Half-time: Woking 0 – 0 Hertford Town
Woking’s passing improved as the second-half began, but Colletti and Kingham again forced saves from the Woking ‘keeper. Then on 58 minutes, Woking made the first of the substitutions that would lead to the game’s dramatic turnaround. Tyrell Ejakita and Hayden Vally joining the action, with Kigozi playing more off the righthand side, where he was soon threatening to cause problems.
However, Woking still found themselves doing the greater share of defensive work, and soon after Connor Thomas was relieved to see his deflection of Liam Cruthchett’s shot go wide, Hertford had the lead. On 68 minutes Colletti finally beat Zziwa. Woking’s ‘keeper could not get a strong enough punched clearance as he came out to clear Cruthchett’s corner, and Colletti was able to lob the ball over the crowded penalty area in to the unguarded net.
It looked like the game was only going one way. Colletti and Zziwa continued their personal battle, the Woking ‘keeper thwarting his opponent twice more, before Hertford doubled their lead on 28 minutes. The referee played a good advantage
whilst some Hertford players appealed for a freekick, and Titchmarsh finished neatly from Jed Warwick’s pass.
Whilst Hertford’s substitutions perhaps unnecessarily unsettled their team, Woking’s would prove to be thoroughly game changing. Luca Di Manno and Jack Owen came on on 78 minutes, Di Manno and Vally pushing forward through the middle, with Ejakita now attacking from the left. Momentum was with Woking, but when Warwick missed a chance to make it 3 – 0, what was to follow still seemed unlikely.
On 84 minutes Ampah’s pass wide found Kigozi, whose firm low cross was met at the near post by Vally, neatly side-footing in to the bottom corner. Two minutes later came almost a mirror image. Joe Scanlon playing the ball to Ejakita on the left, and his cross was met by Vally, this time getting enough on a header for it to evade May and nestle in the corner of the net.
Woking’s winner came one minute later. When Di Manno laid the ball back to Bushby twenty yards out there didn’t seem to be a lot of danger, until he transferred it on to his left foot and fired the ball in to the far top corner.
Hertford rallied well, and as the game reached 6 minutes of added time Colletti had a chance to add a final twist to the tale, but hit the ball over the bar when it fell to him 12 yards out. Kigozi and Ejakita moving wide had proved crucial, and the Hertford defenders left the pitch discussing how the crosses for the first two Woking goals had been allowed to come in to the area.
Woking: Aaron Zziwa, Connor Thomas (c), Mason Drew, Kai Baverstock (Jack Owen 78), Zackaria Rhioui (Tyrell Ejakita 58), Brian Rai (Hayden Vally 58), Pranish Gurung (Luca Di Manno 78), Frankie Bushby, Roshan Kigozi, Jojo Ampah. Unused sub: James Moore (GK).
Goals: Vally 84, 86, Bushby 87.
Hertford Town: Sonny May, Jack Heaton, Christian Swaby, Liam Cruthchett, Timmy Adewale-Banks, Fionn O’Connell (c), George Kingham, Dylan Colletti, Ben Nichols, Lucas Titchmarsh, Jed Warwick. Subs: Razzi Ahmed, Desmond Yobouet, Harry Chetwood, Harry Foot, Harry Boorer.
Goals: Colletti 68, Titchmarsh 73.
Referee: Gary Whapshott
Dorking U19 4 - 1 Woking U19
National League Alliance – Academy South Meadowbank, Mill Lane, Dorking
In the opening exchanges of the first Academy South fixture of the season Woking competed well with the hosts. Woking created chances of their own before Ollie Rawlins gave Dorking the lead on 22 minutes. Lewis Mouland had already made great saves from Rawlins and ex-Card Liam Manby, but could not prevent the Dorking opener.
Dorking soon doubled their advantage, a Rawlins shot hitting the post and going in off the unfortunate Mouland to make it 2 – 0 after 25 minutes. Woking responded well and Louis Sullivan made further saves to maintain his sides lead at half-time. Although it could have been different if Woking had been awarded a penalty for a trip on Tom Dryer.
Woking started the second-half well, before Mouland was called in to action to keep Woking in the game. On 70 minutes Woking halved the deficit, Stan Kyle heading home from close range from a corner. But they were not to complete the comeback, and on 82 minutes Ted Sullivan finished off a good Dorking move to make it 3 – 1.
With the game in added time Dorking had a fourth, Miles Straker adding a little gloss to the scoreline. Having finished just two points behind Dorking last season Woking will look to respond positively to this early setback.
Dorking: Louis Sullivan, Chris Ewen, Henry Gunay, Jay Richardson, Joel Brown, Neo Wooster (c), Mason Myles (Donny Daniels 73), Gabriel Jacks (Ted Sullivan 46), Tom Bland (Brandon Engstrom 73), Liam Manby (Jacob Todman 46), Ollie Rawlins (Miles Straker 62).
Woking: Lewis Mouland, Jack Lewis, Harrison Stevens, Charlie Sweeney, Max Goldsworthy (Jayden Smith 75), Jermaine Junior Young, Tommy Seale (c), Tom Dryer, Lucas Boxall (Harvey Brook 62), Byron Mitchell, Stanley Kyle. Unused subs: Mikey Verga (GK), Bobby Lawrence, Roshaun Cooper.
Goal: Kyle 70.
Referee: Mario Gellard.
Thursday 5th September
Abbey Rangers U21 P – P Woking U21 Suburban Football League – Premier Division Addlestone Moor, Addlestone. Match postponed due to waterlogged pitch.
Sunday 8th September
Woking Women 1 - 1 Abbey Rangers Women; Southern Region – Division One South Laithwaite Community Stadium, Kingfield, Woking
For a match report for this fixture please see the Woking FC website.
For up-to-date information on fixtures please refer to the Woking Football Club Academy twitter page, and the Woking Football Club Women’s twitter page.
Loan (Dual Registered Players) watch: Tuesday 3rd September
Ben Mitchell, Forward, 3rd year - Knaphill: Played the full game, and scored the second goal, dribbling from the half-way line before shooting in to the bottom corner from the edge of the area, in the 3 - 0 victory over Sandhurst Town in the Combined Counties Premier Division South.
Friday 6th September
Ollie Mason, Centre Midfield, 3rd year – Ascot United: Played the first 61 minutes (going off when it was 4 – 0), of the 5 – 0 victory over Merstham in the Isuzu FA Trophy First Qualifying Round.
Saturday 7th September
Lui Edwards, Forward, – Westfield: Played the first 64 minutes of the 4 – 0 victory over Metropolitan Police in the Isuzu FA Trophy First Qualifying Round.
Ben Mitchell, Forward, 3rd year - Knaphill: Played the full game in the 0 – 1 defeat at Redhill in the Combined Counties Premier Division South.
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.
All matches in one place, live, on-demand and on any device
WOMEN'S REPORT
CARD'S HELD TO GOALLESS DRAW AT WIMBORNE TOWN
FIRST HALF HIGHLIGHTS
Wimborne FC Women 0 - 0 Woking FC Women
Sunday 1 September 2024 14:00 KO
Wimborne Town FC Stadium
The rain began pouring down just as the whistle blew to kick off what turned out to be a tightly contested match between Wimborne Town FC Women and Woking FC Women. Both teams showcased determination and grit, but ultimately, it was a day of missed opportunities, especially for Woking FC Women, who will feel they could have walked away with more than just a point.
Woking FC Women started the match strongly, immediately putting pressure on Wimborne Town FC's defense. Within the first 10 minutes, Woking earned two corners, setting the tone for their aggressive approach. The first of these led to a brilliant chance for Gaby Hobday, who connected with a left-footed volley after Beth Anders skillfully brought down the ball and laid it off. Hobday’s shot was on target, heading for the top left corner, but the Wimborne Town FC Women’s goalkeeper made an exceptional full-stretch diving save. The subsequent corner saw Laura Mitchell try her luck with a curling right-footed effort from outside the box, aiming for the far right-hand corner, but once again, the Wimborne Town keeper was equal to the task.
Wimborne Town FC Women had their own moment of threat in the 25th minute. A swift counter-attack saw their right winger cut inside and then outside before unleashing a powerful right-footed shot. However, Woking FC Women’s goalkeeper, Amy Jenkins, produced a stunning save, pushing the ball onto the right-hand upright and out for a corner.
The first half was marred by an unfortunate incident in the 38th minute when Woking FC Women’s Maddison Eggleton fell awkwardly while contesting an aerial duel. She required immediate medical attention and was forced to leave the field. The club later confirmed that Eggleton has suffered a broken fibula and everyone at Woking FC Women wishes her a speedy and full recovery.
The remainder of the first half was evenly contested in the midfield, with neither side managing to maintain possession for extended periods. The half-time whistle blew with the scoreline still goalless.
HALFTIME: 0-0
SECOND HALF HIGHLIGHTS
Wimborne Town FC Women began the second half with renewed energy, applying sustained pressure in Woking’s defensive third for the first five minutes. Despite their dominance, they could only muster one shot from distance, comfortably held by Amy Jenkins.
The best chances of the match, however, fell to Woking FC Women. In the 52nd minute, Gaby Hobday picked up the ball 40 yards from goal and drove towards the box, but her left-footed shot drifted wide of the far right-hand post. Fifteen minutes later, Hobday found herself one-onone with the Wimborne Town goalkeeper after receiving a perfectly weighted through ball. Unfortunately, her left-footed attempt rolled just wide of the left-hand upright.
The 71st minute saw another golden opportunity for Woking FC Women. Louise Curr, played in by Alicia Christie, found herself in a one-on-one situation with the Wimborne Town keeper. The keeper, however, stood her ground and made a crucial block with a strong left hand, denying Curr near the penalty spot. In the final 15 minutes, Woking FC Women piled on the pressure, dominating possession and creating numerous chances. They won five corners in the last 10 minutes alone, with shots from Gaby Hobday, Bryony Gibbs, and Fran Cotter either blocked or placed wide. Despite their relentless efforts, the breakthrough never came.
The match ended in a goalless draw, reflecting the competitive nature of both sides. Wimborne Town FC Women, in just their third year of existence, proved to be a well-organised and structured opponent, while Woking FC Women will rue their missed opportunities.
NEXT MATCH
We are excited to announce that our first home game of 2024/25 season will be played at the Laithwaite Community Stadium. Admission is free and we want to fill our stadium, so come on down and cheer on the team in their first home game of the season.
Woking FC Women v Abbey Park Rangers
Sunday 8 September 2024 15:00 KICK OFF Laithwaite Community Stadium
