SATURDAY 30T h NOVEMBER kI C k OFF: 15:00
WElCOME
Greetings, and welcome back to the Laithwaite Community Stadium as we welcome Yeovil Town for match day 21of the Vanarama National League.
It’s been a quick turnaround for Michael and Co., as we head into home game 2 of 4 over a 12 day period. After a strong October, Yeovil are heading into the game on a 3 match winless run, sitting in 13th. A result today would see us close the gap, and put a bit of breathing space between us as the bottom 4, before our attentions turn to the National
League Cup and FA Trophy. As always, we need our Card army to make some noise!
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR MATCH & BALL SPONSORS
Todays match sponsor was donated to support Linkable’s Christmas Market, taking place in the Cardinals Bar on Sunday 1st December. Everyone is welcome, and it’s sure to be a great day – learn more here. https://www. linkable.org.uk/events/christmas-fair-family-funday
A massive thank you also to our Ball Sponsor, Dave Pete. Ardent Cardinal Dave is a regular feature at the club both as a fan, and in his capacity within the Chamber and local businesses. He is here to celebrate a very special milestone birthday – Happy Birthday Dave!
BLACK FRIDAY ONLINE & IN-STORE
All merchandise is 15% off online and in the club shop until Monday 2nd December. Fans using the new online store can use code BlackFriday at the basket to apply the discount – check out the online store here: https://wokingfootballclub.myshopify.com/
On the topic of the online store, my team and I are actively listening to fan feedback and are in the process of making all first team kit available to purchase, with additional Adidas lines to be added as soon as possible. We are also working on stocking into the club shop, items currently only available online.
FA TROPHY & NATIONAL LEAGUE CUP
We welcome Fulham U21 in our 3rd fixture of the National League Cup on the 3rd December, before Havant & Waterlooville head to the LCS on the 7th December for our first FA Trophy fixture of the season. Tickets for both those games are available online. https://wokingfc.ktckts.com/brand/matchtickets
As always, I am keen to hear from fans with any feedback (good or bad!), ideas of inspirations – drop me a note on simon.jones@ wokingfc.co.uk
Kind Regards,
Simon Jones Business Development Director.
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 complete November with the visit of Yeovil Town to the Laithwaite. In what will be the second of four consecutive home games, but the last home league match until Altrincham visit on the 21st December, the Cards face last season’s National League South champions after drawing to Southend on Tuesday night, despite the Shrimpers going down to ten men.
Dan Moss is awaiting the result of a scan following an injury suffered in the win over Boston, and Dennon Lewis will also be absent. With none of Woking’s strikers having scored in the league since Charley Kendall netted in defeat to Oldham back in September, things will need to change against a side with an excellent away record.
OPPOSITION WATCH
Dumped out of the division in some disgrace following a failed takeover by now-York owner Matt Uggla, local businessman Martin Hellier picked up the pieces in Somerset and helped Mark Cooper build a side fit to challenge for the NLS title. Their first league title since 2005 was a fairly routine affair, 95 points saw them win it comfortably and Cooper aimed to build a team to compete back in the National League.
Eleven permanent departures paved the way for some signings to strengthen the squad and bridge the divisional gap, including midfielder Brett McGavin from Torquay, former Southampton
Woking vs Yeovil Town Vanarama National League
Saturday 30th November 2024 15:00 Kick-Off
winger Josh Sims and Port Vale loanee James Plant, who is the Glovers’ one-to-watch.
The highly rated 20-year-old has two goals and an assist in nine games, but his involvement stretches beyond just contributions. He’s one of a number of young players spearheading this Yeovil side, who have the second best away record in the division having taken 17 points from ten games. That’s despite a 4-0 thumping at York last time on the road, with midweek defeat at home to Barnet making it three straight losses for the Glovers.
AROUND THE GROUND
Tickets are available here
There will be a bucket collection for our Christmas Project, further details are available here
LAST TIME OUT
Woking were victorious on both occasions in 2022/23, with a November home win thanks to Padraig Amond after the striker had missed a penalty, before a Kyran Lofthouse goal secured victory by the same scoreline in March 2023 at Huish Park.
Since 2019, Woking have won three games against the Glovers, who have been victorious on four occasions, with just a solitary draw.
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
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
Craig Mackail-Smith
Ben Turner
Malcolm Jobling
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
There are no Supporters Coaches currently scheduled. If you are interested in travelling to an away game via the coach then please contact adam. bowyer@cardstrust.co.uk.
CHRISTMAS BUCKET COLLECTION
Please note that there is a bucket collection today for the Christmas Hospital Visits. If you would rather donate online then please visit:
CARDS TRUST QUIZ NIGHT
The Cards Trust Quiz Night took place on 22nd November with 85 people in attendance. An amazing night was had, raising £800 for the Cards Trust (Which in turn will benefit the Football Club)Thank you to all that took part and to John Greenwood for organising.
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 here: CLICK HERE
BIRTHDAYS
Alex Griffiths - 28th November - 11 years old
Georgie Griffiths - 28th November - 11 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
November Draw:
£100 number 25 John Dowling
£75 number 443 Jamie Bullen
£50 number 71 Mick Fidler
Congratulations to the winners!Next week the Christmas draw will be made, with a top prize of £500! Units are just £12 each. To learn more and take part please contact john.hooker@ cardstrust.co.uk
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 clicking here (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.
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.
Bringing Your Opto-Mechanical Ideas To Life.
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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
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
JUNiOR CARdiNALS
GUESS ThE Pl AYERS
INTERACTiVE QUiz
SPECIAL MENTIONS
KRISTIAN LOWE - 12 YEARS OLD
Kristian has been taken to watch Woking matches since he was 1. He plays football locally for Mayford as a defender and his favourite player from the current Woking squad is Max Dyche
ACAdEMY BULLETIN
UPCOMING FIXTURES
Week commencing 25th November 2024
WEDNESDAY 27TH NOVEMBER
19:45 – Woking U18 v Rising Ballers U18
FA Youth Cup - Second Round Proper
The Laithwaite Community Stadium, Kingfield
THURSDAY 28TH NOVEMBER
19:30 – Woking U18 v Chipstead U18
Isthmian Youth Football League – Central Division 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 REPORTS & TEAM DETAILS
Week commencing 18th November 2024
WEDNESDAY 20TH NOVEMBER
Woking U17 5 - 1 Dartford Reds
National League U19 Alliance – Division E Woking College, Rydens Way
After starting the season well Woking needed this result to help establish themselves as a mid-table side who are looking up, rather than down. This was a stronger performance from the Cards, who recovered well from falling behind after 7 minutes. Dartford’s goal was well worked, Miller Smoker’s long throw was a danger throughout, and on this occasion was flicked on by Ola Thompson and finished by Gurp Benning with a very impressive overhead kick from the corner of the six-yard box, giving James Moore no chance of making a save.
Woking responded well, Jack Tricker playing in Brian Rai whose low shot called on Ethan Rook for a diving tip wide, before Rai headed Frankie Bushby’s corner at the Dartford ‘keeper. Woking equalled on 12 minutes, Callum Mathieson showing real quality as he dribbled through from 30 yards and once in the penalty area fired across Rook in to the top corner.
There were no further goals in the first-half, although some good blocks were required from Woking to keep the score level, and Smoker’s shot from the edge of the area on 43 minutes was not far off target. Salomon Roebuck prompted his Dartford teammates forwards well, but they could not turn their dominance in to goals.
Half-time: Woking 1 – 1 Dartford
Whilst Woking went to the changing room for their half-time instructions, Dartford took a more relaxed approach talking in small groups with their teammates. It was interesting to see how the second-half then played out. The early exchanges did not suggest that Woking were going to be such emphatic winners, indeed when the Cards survived back-to-back goalmouth scrambles it looked like Dartford would soon restore their lead.
As Dartford adjusted to their first substitution of the afternoon, Woking took the lead. On 57 minutes Vally was played in down the left-wing, and his excellent pull-back was dispatched into the top corner from the edge of the penalty area by Mathieson.
Whereas the first Dartford substitution seemed to disrupt them, Woking’s introduction of Jojo Ampah, with Vally playing slightly deeper, saw Woking make the most of taking the lead and helped them to push home their advantage. Woking continued to apply pressure, and the referee spoke to a clearly rattled Dartford to calm them down. On 69 minutes Woking doubled their lead. Gurang Pranish can sometimes overplay, but on this occasion his hold-up play was excellent, and the tricks on the ball and astute pass a joy, with Mathieson turning about 12 yards from goal and once again firing unerringly into the top corner. A hat-trick of most accurate finishes.
Dartford came close to halving the deficit within a couple of minutes, but were ruled to have strayed offside. Ampah joined Vally and Mathieson in further promising attacking play and Woking looked to be in control, although a lapse in concentration at the back did allow George Allen to get a shot in which Woking were pleased to see go over.
Joe Scanlon and Gurang went off for well-earned rests as Woking looked to see out the game, but the scoring was not yet over, with Mathieson claiming his and his teams’ fourth. Dartford failed to clear their lines and a turn and shot on the edge of the area produced a familiar outcome, this time beating Rook into the bottom corner.
With 5 minutes of additional-time played it looked like proceedings were complete, but there was time for one more goal, Mathieson and Ampah were involved in the build-up and when the ball broke free off a defender Jack Tricker finished accomplishedly, a just reward for a fine display in the demanding left-wingback position.
Eleven minutes of additional-time did see Fred Hayes shoot wide for Dartford as they persevered to the end, but what looked like it could be an even contest had finished rather one-sided, and Woking can look forward to continuing to work on improving their standing in Division E.
Woking: James Moore, Max Goldsworthy (Mason Drew 88), Ollie Rigby, Joe Frawley, Joe Scanlon (George Mattingley 83), Pranish Gurang (Luca Di Manno 77), Brian Rai (Jojo Ampah 57), Frankie Bushby (c), Jack Tricker, Hayden Vally, Callum Mathieson. Unused sub: Aaron Zziwa (GK).
Goals: Mathieson 12, 57, 69, 87, Tricker 90+5. Referee: Colin Campbell.
Woking U18 2 – 1 Bromley U18 After Extra-time, score at 90 minutes, 1 – 1. FA Youth Cup - First Round Proper, Replayed Game, Bromley FC, Hayes Lane
With the original fixture completed outside the rules of the competition, the FA ordered a replaying of the first round tie against Bromley, this time at Hayes Lane. The original match ended with Bromley triumphing 4-2 in extratime, but making one extra substitution than the competition permits.
Woking had a dream start to the game, going a goal ahead in the first minute. This came in the form of an own goal, as the Bromley defence attempted to pass the ball amongst
themselves. It was George Rees’ pass that was out of reach for goalkeeper Harry Haines, with the ball rolling into the back of the net to give the travelling side an early advantage.
Action at both ends continued throughout the first 15 minutes, with Bromley looking set to equalise in the 10th minute with a Yuvi Mann cross being headed narrowly over the bar by George Evans. Straight down the other end, Jalil Page shot from the edge of the box, but the ball was claimed well by Harry Haines.
Rounding off the first 15, Louis Pask put a fantastic low cross into the box, which was met with a first-time shot from Lucas Boxall but, again, Haines claimed to stop Woking from doubling their advantage.
Bromley throughout the fixture had intensity to their attack and looked threatening on the break. Perhaps most notably in the first-half when Jacob Farr lost the ball in the middle of the park, with George Evans, who scored a hat-trick in the first game, charging forward but hitting the side netting.
Involved again, on the half-hour mark, Farr picked up the ball in what looked to be a promising move for Woking, but the cross hit the roof of the net, extinguishing the threat for Bromley. The captain had another opportunity to add to his side’s advantage in the closing stages of the half, driving into the box and striking a shot which curled narrowly wide.
Woking came close at the end of the first half through Boxall, after Tommy Seale had played a great ball into the channel, and Jalil Page flashed a promising ball across the face of goal, but the ball ended up just out of the no.10’s reach, leaving Woking with just the one goal lead at half-time.
Half-time: Woking 1 – 0 Bromley
Bromley came out the stronger of the two sides in the second half, with high intensity and a break forward seeing Mann shoot just over the bar as they searched for their equaliser. And it didn’t take
them long to find it, with a brilliant effort from 35 yards from Dawid Przybylo flying past Verga in the 49th minute to cancel out Woking’s early lead.
Bromley kept the intensity up, creating a number of chances in the opening 10 minutes of the second half, with a nervy moment for Woking as the home side flashed a corner across the face of goal, and Verga having to claim another shot from range in quick succession.
Woking were denied the majority of possession in the opening stages of the second 45, but, as throughout the game, did well to combat the Bromley attack. On the hour mark, a couple of big chances for the travelling side could have seen their lead restored. Firstly, Boxall’s shot from the edge of the box was met by Haines, stopping Woking’s first real chance since half-time. Moments after, Louis Pask went close to slotting the ball into the near bottom corner, but again Haines was equal to it, keeping the scoreline level.
In the 61st minute, Evans was only a fraction away from putting Bromley in the lead for the first time on the night, but his header was off the post. Shortly after another Bromley effort from Mann, this time from 25 yards, clattered the woodwork, and with the ball bouncing around in the goal mouth, it made for a nervy moment before Evans headed over the bar.
In the 74th minute, the home side did, for a second, take the lead. Evans received Jedd Hobbs’ pass neatly and did well to turn inside a crowded box and place a shot past Verga, but the goal was ruled out and the search for a winner continued.
Despite a late flurry of chances for Bromley, including a goalmouth scramble which Woking eventually cleared, Evans heading wide in the 89th minute, and both Evans and Mann shooting across goal, but wide, in stoppage time, the scoreline could not be settled in the given 90, meaning an extra 30 minutes was on the cards.
End of Normal Time: Woking 1 – 1 Bromley
The first half of extra-time saw a promising spell from Woking, with substitute Sam Brittain putting a promising ball into the box in the 98th minute, which could not be converted. It was Brittain that, late in the first half of extra-time, was sent off after bringing down Dawid Przybylo when he was through on goal. The free kick was awarded just outside the box, which Mann stepped up to take. A big save from a diving Verga denied Bromley the lead, and when Mann hit the bar with another chance it was left to the final 15 for a winner to emerge.
Half-time in Extra-time: Woking 1 – 1 Bromley
A dramatic final 15 minutes saw a number of shots from Bromley, with Verga being equal to them all, including a double save from Zhechko Zhelyazkov. It was a moment of brilliance as the game looked even more likely to be settled on penalties that sent 10-man Woking through to the second round. In the 113th minute, Leo Christophers won the ball and pressed forwards before switching the ball across the field to substitute Seyi Akinwalere, who picked up the ball on the left-hand side, drove into the box, and put an incredible shot into the far top corner to re-establish the Woking lead.
After the celebrations for Woking ceased, the side managed the rest of the game well, despite being a player down, to keep their FA Youth Cup hopes alive. With the last chance of the game, Bromley earned a free kick close to the edge of the area, which both Brody Cockerill and Haines stood over. Haines stepped up to take it, firing way over the bar, and indeed over the stand, meaning, after 240 minutes of football played across two fixtures, Woking advanced to the second round of the FA Youth Cup. They now go on to host Rising Ballers Kensington at The Laithwaite Community Stadium on Wednesday 27th November in the next round of the competition.
Woking may have ridden their luck, but the coaches’ tactics as they set-up to both counteract the strengths Bromley had shown in the original game, and to exploit their sides own strengths, combined with the application of the side to their tasks, earnt a well-deserved win.
Woking: Mikey Verga, Harrison Stevens (Joel Jennison-Leppa 94’), Dillan Davies, Jacob Farr ©, Jack Lewis (Louis Boyle 97’), Leo Christophers, Tommy Seale (Seyi Akinwalere 97’), Roshan Kigozi (Sam Brittain 63’), Louis Pask, Lucas Boxall, Jalil Page (Stanley Kyle 83’). Unused substitutes: James Orton, Harry White (GK).
Goals: OG (George Rees) 1’, Seyi Akinwalere 113’.
Red Card: Sam Brittain 104’.-
Attendance: 166.
Referee: Teddy Osborn.
Assistant Referees: Harry Yellen, Joe Alborough.
Fourth Official: Ryan Hetherington.
Dover Athletic U19 P - P Woking U19; National League U19 Academy – South Division Dover Athletic FC, Crabble Athletic Ground
Match postponed due to replaying of FA Youth Cup First Round Proper fixture versus Bromley
THURSDAY 21ST NOVEMBER
Woking U21 P - P Cobham U21; Suburban Football League – Premier Division Knaphill FC, Redding Way
Match postponed due to a frozen pitch.
LOAN (DUAL REGISTERED PLAYERS) WATCH:
MONDAY 18TH NOVEMBER
Lui Edwards, Forward, 4th year – Westfield: Played the full game of the 1 – 0 victory at Binfield in the Isthmian League - South Central Division.
SATURDAY 23RD NOVEMBER
Lui Edwards, Forward, 4th year – Westfield: Played the full match in the 1 – 1 draw against South Park (Reigate) in the Isthmian LeagueSouth Central Division.
Bob Honey, Goalkeeper, 2nd year – Kingstonian: The match at Binfield in the Isthmian LeagueSouth Central Division was postponed.
Henry McDonald, Centre Midfield, 3rd year - Petersfield Town: The match at Saltdean United in the Southern Combination - Premier Division was postponed.
Ben Mitchell, Forward, 3rd year - Knaphill: Came on as an 87th minute substitute in the 0 – 0 draw at Tooting & Mitcham in the Combined Counties - Premier Division.
Harry White, Goalkeeper, 2nd year –Sandhurst Town: Played his third full league game for Sandhurst in this week’s 1 – 6 home defeat against Jersey Bulls in the Combined Counties League Premier Division South. Harry previously played on 16th November in the 3 – 1 victory at Alton, and on 19th November in the 0 – 2 home defeat to Redhill.
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.
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BA (Hons) Football Business and Media student and Women’s Content Creator at Chelsea FC
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