Harrogate Town Vs Stevenage

BOARD

Chairman

Irving Weaver

Vice Chairman Howard Matthews

Chief Executive Officer Sarah Barry

Directors Angus Taylor Dave Riley

Associate Director Mike Partridge

Finance Director Julian Davis

Marketing & Brand Director Ryan Scott

Commercial Director Joanne Towler

Life President George Dunnington Vice Presidents Clive Dunnington David Batty

FOOTBALL

First Team Manager Simon Weaver

Assistant Manager Paul Thirlwell

Goalkeeper Coach Phil Priestley

Head of Player Recruitment Lloyd Kerry

Chief Scout Lee Barraclough

Head Physiotherapist Rachel McGeachie

Assistant Physiotherapist Cyra Smith

Assistant Physiotherapist Emily Harnden

Sports Psychologist Phil Lee

Academy Manager Paul Stansfield

Head of Youth Coaching Josh Law

Youth Development Phase Lead Josh Walsh

Youth Development Josh Falkingham

Academy Secretary Jane McCulloch

OPERATIONS

Head of Football Operations Abbey Smith Club Administrator Jane McCulloch

Community Development Iain Service Tom Blackburn

Supporters’ Liaison Officer Phill Holdsworth

Fan Engagement Manager Hamilton Mattock

Ticketing Office Manager Carey Huegett

Facilities Manager Mark Rowley Retail Manager Claire Kontominas

Bar Supervisor Claire Bentley

Club Chaplain Rob Brett

PA Announcer Alan Tootill

Groundsman

SIMON WEAVER

Today, for myself and the lads we have set ourselves the challenge of bouncing back from what was a disappointing performance last time out against Colchester. We set high standards for ourselves and within our group we know we are capable of better.

This week in training, the lads have shown a real desire in training to set right those wrongs and now we have to take the quality from the training pitch into the match today.

We gifted the opponents goals in that game because the standard of our defending wasn’t up to the level needed in this division. There is a sense of pride when you play at home but that pride was hurt by the fact we conceded three goals here. With the quality of players we had on the pitch, I feel we did ourselves an injustice because we were too slow on the ball which made things easier for Colchester.

While disappointing, we have a great opportunity to bounce back here with a strong performance against a very good Stevenage side. They are flying high at the top end of the table and fresh off the back of an FA Cup victory over Aston Villa. It is testament to the quality they possess to come from behind at Villa Park and register one of the results of the Third Round.

However, we are a team who have shown they can create chances against anyone in this division. When we get on the front foot and get the ball moving I believe we have the quality to grab the goals we need to come away from this game with all three points.

That is not something which is guaranteed though. The lads come in to this game with their eyes open and aware of the style which Stevenage execute. We have to learn from the mistakes made against Colchester and continue our development.

Of course, this week we lost Jaheim Headley and to lose a player of his quality is always going to be a blow. However, to have impressed enough to be brought back to Huddersfield is a credit to his quality and attitude. On behalf of everyone here, we wish him well in the future.

With the January transfer window still open we have the opportunity to replace Jahiem and add quality to our squad. The success of this loan further strengthens our appeal to players looking to further their careers and hopefully that is something we can take advantage of moving forward.

C M Y CM MY CY CMY K

Contemporary new homes near you

THE SKIPPER

JOSH FALKINGHAM

As challenges in this division go, they don’t come much tougher than Stevenage, so today’s match promises to be a really exciting encounter.

We are still working hard to get our first win of the year so hopefully we can show the quality we have and bounce back from our defeat to Colchester last time out.

Collectively we were disappointed in the performance, we went into the game with a clear plan of how we wanted to play but in the end we got what we deserved and that has been a huge source of frustration within the dressing room.

However, playing at home again, we want to put things right with a good performance here today. We have to take our hats off to Stevenage for their result they picked up in the FA Cup last time out. They are a team who are flying high in the division with a clear identity on how they want to play the game.

These are the games you relish as a player, we have an opportunity to test ourselves against a team who are battling for the title. To make sure we do that properly, we have to focus on our own play. We have to go back to basics and make sure we nail them from the first minute until the last.

There must be a huge improvement from everyone within the group, being at home we want to make sure the game gets played on our terms.

There is obviously going to be spells where they ask questions of us but we have to be ready to step up and answer them by defending as a unit from the front.

It’s also important that we do the right things in possession to ensure that we can get something from this game. We want to get the ball forward quickly and give good service to our forward line and hopefully they can make the most of that with some goals.

Since we last played we have lost Jaheim and, as I write this, Josh Coley has been recalled so they are two players who will be big losses to us. Jaheim was a player who worked his way in to the starting line-up pretty quickly and once he got there he went from strength to strength.

Josh is a player who liked to get on the ball and could make things happen going forward in attack for us. The lads were great characters to have around the place and players who really bought in to the culture of this club.

Me and the rest of the lads would like to wish them the very best of luck moving forward.

Enjoy the game!

Falks

THOMSON GEORGE

THOMSON

It has been a month of landmarks for Town midfielder George Thomson, our match against Bradford in late December saw him hit 250 appearances for the club. This was followed up with the news that the 30-yearold had agreed a two-year contract extension which will see him remain in the yellow and black until 2025. For our number seven, the decision to remain a Town player beyond the end of this season was an easy one to make.

Words: Nickolas McInally

“I always wanted to stay. I hoped the gaffer would want me here and see me in his plans. Now it has been sorted, I have that security in my future moving forward.

“Anyone who is coming to the end of their contract starts to think about what is next. At the end of every season there is always a lot of players who are out of contract. However, the gaffer has been great with me and has never let me get to the very end of my deal.

“He spoke to me and told me he wanted me to stay. He sees me as a part of what the club wanted to do moving forward so it’s really nice to hear that as a player. As soon as I heard that, it was a no brainer for me. I have been here for a long time, I love the club and I love playing for the gaffer and Thirs so there was never any doubt in my mind that I wanted to stay.”

Described by many as a ‘fan favourite’ Thommo admits the description is one which he is very proud of.

“It’s nice to be viewed like that. I have been at the club for quite a while now and I would like to think that I have did some good things here. We’ve made some great memories along the way, it’s been an incredible journey in these six years and it has been great to be a part of that. The fans have been brilliant with me in my time here, I hope that they stick with us like they always have done. During that time we’ve had a lot of success and a couple of sticky periods along the way.

“However, the squad and the club is resilient, we will always keep pushing until the very end and hopefully in the second half of the season we can kick-on.”

Thomson joined the club from FC United of Manchester in 2017 and looking back. The versatile midfielder admits the journey which has followed in the six years since is not one which he was expecting.

“At the time, I was grateful to be coming back in to full-time

football. We were in the Conference North and that was a big pull for me. I was a lot younger than I am now and at that time that was always my ambition. If you would have told me, six years ago, that I would still be here playing regularly, I’m not sure if I’d of believed you. It’s been an incredible journey but I still believe I can develop further as a player and continue to improve like I have done during my time here.”

At the age of 30, Thomson is widely regarded as one of the senior players in Simon Weaver’s squad and with six years’ worth of experience, the midfielder enjoys the added responsibility of ensuring the standards within the squad are high.

“There is a handful of us who have been here for most of the journey. Obviously Warren was before me, Falks and I were about the same time and Mullers came in not long after. The old-guard know the values and what the demands of the coaches are. We like to have a changing room which runs itself. We set the standards and when new players come in we have to make sure they are on the same page.

“This summer we have brought in a lot of new faces, it was probably the biggest rebuild we’ve

had during my time here so it was always going to take a bit of time to gel. I do believe we are starting to see the benefits of that in our performances and long may it continue.”

Earlier this season the midfielder found himself out of the squad through an injury sustained in the opening weeks of the season. With this being his first lengthy spell on the sidelines, Thomson took on a duty to support the players who were fit.

“I started the season and got injured at Barrow away. It’s actually my first proper injury since I have been here so it was tough. Once you get your head around it you have to be professional and upbeat. You can’t dwell on it or feel sorry for yourself because you’ve got to think about everyone else at the club.

“You can’t bring the morale down, you have to be yourself and try to help the lads who are fit and can contribute. As well as that I was doing everything I could to get back as quickly as possible. I had the little setback against Morecambe. It was the last kick of the ball and I injured a different part of my hamstring so that’s another hurdle to overcome but it’s also part of football.

“I went to as many games as I could when I was injured, I was in the changing room because I think it’s important to stay in and around the group. It definitely helps mentally because you can still have an influence on the lads because we are all in it together and pulling in the same direction.”

While the landmark of hitting 250 appearances with a club remains rare, Town’s number seven is already looking ahead to the next landmark as he prepares for two more years with the club.

“It’s another milestone that I am delighted to reach while representing this club. It’s not something that happens very often in modern football but for me now it’s about adding to that tally and hopefully I can hit that 300 landmark in the not too distant future. Obviously I have played a lot of games. I would like to think I have contributed to the team effort with goals and assists. It’s always nice to play and every player wants to be playing week in week out.

“I don’t know how common it is for players to stay at a club for as long as some of us have. It’s been a privilege to represent this club during the six years and hopefully we can make more memories in the weeks and months to come.”

A return to the first-team came in emphatic style as a long range effort from Thomson grabbed the equalizer in our 4-1 victory over Rochdale, the former Chester man admits he was pleased to be part of such a performance.

“That was my first start since the second injury and you can’t ask for much more personally. I came back in to the team and even managed to grab a goal. It was a great all-round performance from the team as well. It was almost perfect and moving forward we’ve got to try and replicate that every week. I don’t really get that nervous and never really have done but when you come back from injury there is always that little thought at the back of your mind. So when you get in to a game and play well, you can enjoy it a little bit more.

“The last thing you want is to come in and play poorly or not do yourself justice because you can drop out the team. For me it was important that I hit the ground running, to do that I had to make sure I was 100% and feel like I was ready and thankfully I was able to help the team.”

After taking the decision to become vegan around six years ago, Thomson believes this choice is one which has helped him to maintain his fitness as a player.

“My wife and I are both vegan and have been for the last five or six years. I have noticed during that time that I haven’t picked up many injuries and my recovery always seems to be quite quick. I have completed a lot of research during the last five or six years and it is something which I am quite passionate about. My reasoning isn’t for the health benefits it brings, I chose to be vegan because of the ethical issues around it so there is a deeper meaning but I do see the benefits.

“I get a lot of questions about it from people because of my build, everyone always wonders how I manage to maintain that on a vegan diet but I have never struggled. It is something I take seriously because I think in the modern game you have to. If you can gain any sort of percentage from it then it can help you continue playing for as long as possible. If you don’t look after yourself away from the training ground it’s only going to hinder you in the long run. I feel like my diet plays a big role in the player I am today, it is something that I will continue to research and learn more about because it is so important to being the best player you can be.”

Of course, no conversation about George Thomson’s time with the club would be complete without mentioning his Wembley heroics as the club won promotion to the football league. As the midfielder recalls the occasion, he admits he is still struggling to get his head around it.

“Even talking about it still gives me butterflies. It is such an unbelievable experience. I have my shirt from that game framed and on display in the house, I have the boots in my garage. They are missing a stud but they are moments that will never leave you. It’ll probably be my best memory in football, I remember going to the old Wembley

for a tour when I was younger and my mum showed me the pictures before the game. It’s just incredible to know I have played there, I have scored there and we have got promoted there. Obviously since then we have gone back so we are fortunate enough to have these experiences and to say we won promotion there.”

Looking ahead to the next two years, Town’s number seven believes his vision and the club’s vision is very much aligned.

“The club as a whole is such a good club, there are good people right through it and it’s such a great place to work. I look forward to coming in to training every day and that is something which has never changed and will never change. The aim for me in the next two years is just to continue playing, to continue contributing and see where I can get to as a player. As a club and a group, we have to strive to see where we can go to.

“We want to stay in the league obviously but we want to start doing better than just staying in the division. We want to start targeting higher, there is no reason why we can’t because we aren’t stopping or settling for where we are it’s all about pushing on.”

THE MEN IN CHARGE

John Deacey

1994/95

Harrogate born John Deacey, presently holds the record number of league appearances for Town with 339 and a total of 441 games in all competitions scoring 70 goals 1979-89 and 1992-95 having first joined from Goole Town.

During his time at Town, he was involved in promotion to Yorkshire League Division Two 1980/81, Champions Division Two 1981/82, runners-up NCEL 1984/85, WRC Cup winners and promotion to NCEL Premier in 1985/86. He became skipper 1987/88 in Town’s first venture into NPL Division One football and captained the following season too.

For 1989/90 midfielder Deacey joined NPL Premier Division outfit Bishop Auckland, as he wanted to play at a higher level. In 1993/94, however, he returned to Wetherby Road to become player/coach but general manager Alan Smith stood down from ‘team selection’ to allow Deacey and Mick Doig to form a new management team until Frank Gray arrived in November 1993.

In June 1994 Deacey, now 33, was appointed the new player/manager in place of the departed Gray and said, ‘It was my ambition to land this job’. Unfortunately, it was a very poor start to the campaign with Town rooted to the foot of the table and pressure soon mounted despite a good FA Cup run. After a 4-1 home defeat by Warrington Town in late October with only one win in 12 league games, Deacey threw in the towel ending his short rein and later joined Farsley Celtic as manager. Alan Smith

took charge of team selection for Town until the end of the season. Deacey returned again to the club from Farsley Celtic as coach for 1998/99 but only until September.

During his playing days, apart from Town he also had spells at Middlesbrough, Chesterfield, Farsley Celtic and North Ferriby whilst in management, he had good experience at the top of the non-league pyramid with spells at Farsley Celtic in the Blue Square Premier League in 2007/08 and Bradford Park Avenue in 2010/11 who he joined after turning down becoming Simon Weaver’s Assistant at Town. He also managed Scarborough for a short while and most recently Tadcaster Albion after being appointed in 2021, but was relieved of his post earlier this season.

Whilst Town manager, he was in control for 47 matches winning 14, drawing 12 and losing 21.

Historian Phil Harrison reviews the successes and failures of Harrogate Town’s managers over the years...

Harrogate Town 1994/95

John Deacey Front Rown, Far Left

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• Minimis e tax liabilitie s

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The Duchy Hospital Launches Private GP Service

Do you find it difficult to see your GP at a time that is convenient for you?

Dr Jason Jones will be seeing patients at The Duchy Hospital, giving time for concerns to be discussed. We also offer a comprehensive GP led Health Screening service.

I’m very happy and excited to be joining the team at The Duchy and providing some Primary Care services. Being based within the hospital will also give me access to all the hospital’s facilities, services and consultant colleagues. This should improve the patient journey if any secondary care referrals are needed.

Dr Jason Jones, General Practitioner

For more information or to book an appointment call 01423 567 136

Queens Road, Harrogate, HG2 0HF www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/duchy

Our Youth Social Action Group (ages 16-18) have enjoyed a well-deserved break over the festive period. They certainly left their mark on the Harrogate District in 2022 and are showing no signs of slowing down in 2023. The group are developing multiple different projects that are ready to be implemented in your local area within the coming months.

If you are interested in trying something new and want to make a difference in our local community then this is the best place to do so. The young people take lead on this programme and have created a comfortable environment for any newcomers to join seamlessly. They plan to meet twice a month to plan and prepare for the delivery dates of their social action projects.

Please contact jamespocklington@ harrogatetownafc.com if you have any questions or queries about joining this youth social action group.

For more information or details about the Community Foundation or any of our programmes, please email: community@harrogatetownafc.com

CONNECT WITH US

Facebook: HTAFC Community Foundation Twitter: @htafccf www.htafccommunity.co.uk

UPDATE TALK OF THE TOWN

We are kicking off 2023 with a brand NEW social group for Harrogate and Knaresborough! ‘Talk of the Town’ is a new initiative to reduce isolation and loneliness by playing games and engaging in fun activities. This session is about bringing people together and providing them with that social interaction they may not necessarily have.

If you know anyone struggling with any mental health issues or have any family members who are living with Dementia or Alzheimer’s then this is a perfect fit for the diary. ‘Talk of the Town’ is something different for them to become involved in, as they will have the opportunity to meet new people and reminisce on past memories. The session is open to anyone and we would love for carers to join us too, even if it is to finish off the biscuits!

For more information contact: stevepattison@harrogatetownafc.com we would love to hear from you.

MEET THE TEAM STEVE PATTISON

What do you do at Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation?

As Health and Wellbeing Officer I support people to get healthier, both physically and mentally. Motivating people to be the best they can be.

I love to create a positive impact which is so beneficial to mental health and well-being.

How did you first get involved in working within the Community and why?

I was given the opportunity in 2020 to become a qualified run leader and to start a running group to help people become active. This led to our successful Town to 5k programme. Today we have over 70 runners taking part.

What’s the best thing about working for Harrogate Town? Being part of a supportive team, aiming to make a difference to peoples lives. Along with being able to work everyday in health and wellbeing as a job is a dream!

What is your favourite sporting memory?

As a big ice hockey fan, back in 2005 I was able to go and watch Team Canada train at their summer camp ahead of the 2006 winter Olympics. This was an incredible experience!

Do you have any hobbies away from sport & football?

I really enjoy getting out walking. I also enjoy DIY, cooking and travel. Time with family and friends is also important to me.

TODAY’S

FLAGBEARERS

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK

MONDAY

Man v Fat

King James School, Knaresborough 7-9pm

A weight loss program where you can score goals on and off the pitch

Kids Futsal

Harrogate High School

U7s: 5-6pm / U9s: 6-7pm

Try this fast paced up and coming sport Walking Football King James School, Knaresborough 8-9pm

With a range of ages and abilities, a chance to continue playing football

TUESDAY

Kids Futsal

Rossett Sports Centre

U11s: 5-6pm / U13s: 6-7pm

Talk of the Town Knaresborough Community Centre 10-11:30am

An opportunity for older people to socialise and make new friends with a range of fun social activities. (every two weeks starting 17 Jan)

Town Runners

Beginners and Social 5k Groups 6pm meet at Up and Running Walking Football Rossett Sports Centre MUGA 8-9pm

THURSDAY

Town Runners Social 5k Group 6pm meet at Harrogate Library

Walking Football Rossett Sports Centre MUGA 7-9pm

Beckwithshaw Saints Under 11s

Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation are committed to increasing health and wellbeing, connecting communities and enhancing life chances. As an official charity we are committed to using the power of football to create positive change in our communities. Visit www.htafccommunity.co.uk or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

FRIDAY

Talk of the Town St Marks Church, Harrogate 1.30-3pm

(every two weeks starting 13 Jan)

For further information or to find out booking information for the programmes above, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com

Sat

Tue

Sat

Tue

SEPTEMBER

Tue

Welch-Hayes Richards Burrell Mattock Dooley

Jameson Welch-Hayes Richards Burrell Mattock Dooley

Jameson Ramsay Richards McArdle Mattock Burrell

OCTOBER

Sat

Tue

Sat

Tue

Jameson Ramsay

Headley w McArdle ❚ Mattock Austerfield

Oxley Welch-Hayes Richards Burrell Ferguson ❚ Falkingham

Headley McArdle Mattock

Headley McArdle Mattock Falkingham

Headley McArdle Mattock Falkingham Tue

NOVEMBER

McArdle

Falkingham

Jameson Ramsay Headley McArdle Burrell Falkingham

Headley

Burrell Mattock

Falkingham

Jameson Ramsay Headley w McArdle Mattock Falkingham

Sat

Headley

Mattock Burrell Falkingham Sat

DECEMBER

Sat

Thu 29 Bradford City A 0-1 2,772 Jameson Ramsay Headley Mattock ❚ Burrell Falkingham

JANUARY

Sun 1 Hartlepool United A 3-3 4,566 Jameson Ramsay Headley Mattock Burrell ❚ Austerfield

Sat 7 Colchester United H 1-3 2,144 Jameson Ramsay ❚ Headley McArdle Burrell Falkingham

Sat 14 Stevenage H 15:00

Sat 21 Grimsby Town A 15:00

Sat 28 Sutton United H 15:00

FEBRUARY

Sat 4 Carlisle United A 15:00

Sat 11 Stockport County H 15:00

Tue 14 Salford City A 19:45

Sat 18 Crewe Alexandra H 15:00 Sat 25 Swindon Town A 15:00

Tue 28 Northampton Town H 19:45

MARCH

Sat 4 Gillingham H 15:00

Tue 7 Doncaster Rovers A 19:45

Sat 11 Crawley Town A 15:00

Fri 31 Tranmere Rovers A 19:45

APRIL

Fri

OG USED SUBSTITUTES

Dooley ❚ Thomson Pattison w Armstrong Daly w Muldoon w (67); Frost (77); Ilesanmi (87)

Dooley Thomson Pattison Armstrong Daly Muldoon (69)

Dooley Thomson Muldoon Ilesanmi Daly Armstrong (59); Burrell (60)

Dooley Ramsay Pattison Armstrong Daly Muldoon (62); Richards (71); Thomson (76)

Dooley Ramsay ❚ Pattison w ❚ Armstrong Daly w Thomson (65); Richards (73); Muldoon (79)

Thomson ❚ Ramsay ❚ Pattison Armstrong Daly Muldoon (55); Richards (73); Frost (73)

Austerfield Ramsay Muldoon Armstrong Daly Frost (45); Richards (45); Burrell (45); Horbury (80) Austerfield Ramsay Muldoon Frost Daly Horbury (27); Armstrong (59); Welch-Hayes (63)

Coley Ramsay Angus Armstrong fp Daly Grant (65); Horbury ❚ (70); Muldoon (76)

Coley ❚ Ramsay Pattison Armstrong Folarin Daly (60); Grant (75); Muldoon (84)

Coley Ramsay Pattison Armstrong Folarin ❚ Daly (45); McArdle (45) ❚; Muldoon (54); Austerfield (61) ❚; Angus (71) Coley Muldoon Pattison Armstrong Daly Folarin (69); Angus (75)

Folarin ❚ Muldoon Pattison Armstrong Daly Coley (56) Horbury Frost Grant w Armstrong Folarin Pattison (55); Austerfield (55) ❚; Ramsay (55); Headley (55); Ilesanmi (70) Grant Muldoon Pattison w Armstrong Daly Falkingham (45) ❚; Burrell (45) ❚; Coley (84)

Burrell Muldoon w Pattison w Armstrong Grant Thomson (67); Dooley (88); Daly (88) Horbury Frost O’Boyle w Folarin Daly Muldoon (73); Ramsay (75)

Burrell Grant Pattison Armstrong Daly w Austerfield (43); Folarin (63) Burrell Grant Pattison Armstrong Daly w Coley (45); Folarin (66); Richards (78) ❚ Muldoon Grant Pattison w Armstrong Daly w Coley (80); Frost (90+4)

Muldoon Grant Pattison Armstrong Daly w Coley (90); Austerfield (90) Burrell w Grant Muldoon Armstrong w Daly McArdle (77)

Muldoon Grant Pattison Armstrong Daly Folarin (73); Austerfield (80) ❚ Muldoon Grant Pattison w Armstrong w w Daly Thomson (49); Coley (75); Frost (86) Austerfield Grant Pattison Armstrong Muldoon Thomson (45); McArdle (45+4); Frost (59); Coley (66) w ❚; Folarin (66)

Thomson w Grant Folarin w Armstrong w w Coley Frost (81); Austerfield (83); Ilesanmi (89); Williams (89) Thomson Frost Folarin Armstrong w w Coley w Muldoon (65); Wright (83); Austerfield (90) Thomson ❚ Austerfield Folarin Armstrong Muldoon Pattison (40); Wright (74); Frost (77)

Thomson w Pattison w Folarin w Armstrong Muldoon Thomson ❚ Grant Pattison Armstrong w Folarin Muldoon (45); Angus (73); Frost (82)

Wanderers 05/21 18 (1) 1645

1 - - 2 (1) 0 20 (2) 7 69 17 17 Josh Austerfield 21 Huddersfield Town (Loan) 06/22 12 (5) 1102 0 5 - - 4 (2) 0 16 (7) 0 34 0 18 Jack Muldoon 33 AFC Fylde 06/18 11 (10) 1196 2 - - - 4 (1) 0 15 (11) 2 221 63 19 Tyler Frost 23 Crawley Town 07/22 1 (8) 173 0 - - - 3 (1) 0 4 (9) 0 14 0 20 Kayne Ramsay 22 Southampton 08/22 22 (0) 1980 0 6 - - 3 (2) 0 25 (2) 0 27 0

21 Pete Jameson 29 York City 05/22 23 (0) 2070 0 - - - 4 (0) 0 27 (0) 0 27 0

22 Stephen Dooley 31 Rochdale 06/22 6 (1) 412 0 1 - - 1 (0) 0 7 (1) 0 8 0

23 Rory McArdle 35 Exeter City 06/21 8 (2) 774 0 4 - - 0 (1) 0 8 (3) 0 37 1

24 Kyle Ferguson 23 Altrincham 06/22 4 (0) 316 0 1 - - 4 (0) 0 8 (0) 0 8 0 25 George Horbury 18 Harrogate Town Academy 06/22 0 (2) 24 0 - - 1 2 (1) 0 2 (3) 0 5 0 26 Emmanuel Ilesanmi 18 Harrogate Town Academy 06/22 0 (2) 3 0 - - - 1 (1) 0 1 (3) 0 6 0 27 Brad Williams 18 Harrogate Town Academy - 0 (1) 1 0 - - 0 0 (0) 0 0 (1) 0 1 0 28 Matt Daly 21 Huddersfield Town (Loan) 06/22 16 (3) 1408 5 - - - 4 (0) 1 20 (3) 6 23 6 29 Luke Armstrong 26 Salford City 06/21 24 (0) 2160 9 - - - 3 (2) 0 27 (2) 9 79 23 32 Finn O’Boyle 18 Harrogate Town Academy - 0 (0) 0 0 - - 0 1 (0) 1 1 (0) 1 1 1

Jaheim Headley* 21 Huddersfield Town (Loan) 06/22 20 (0) 1696 2 3 - - 4 (1) 0 24 (1) 2 25 2 Lewis Richards** 21 Wolves (Loan) 07/22 4 (5) 411 0 2 - - 4 (0) 0 8 (5) 0 21 0 Josh Coley*** 24 Exeter City (Loan) 08/22 6 (5) 608 0 1 - - 0 (2) 1 6 (7) 1 13 1

Last week the Academy played their first game of 2023 against a very strong Mansfield Town outfit at York St Johns.

Town started the game sharply and Brad Williams forced a fine save from the visiting goalkeeper, in the opening minutes. Despite dominating possession and territory, Town struggled to test their keeper. This was until the 28th minute when Manny Ilesanmi pressed the Mansfield defender, which led to a mix up in the back line with the ball falling to

Ollie Nicholson who drilled home to put Town 1-0 at half time.

The second half was more difficult than the first as Town were playing against the wind and into blinding sun. Apart from a world class save from Harvey Giles with ten minutes to go, Town managed the game well and comfortably saw out the game to a record a fantastic victory.

Town: Giles, Williams, Birmingham, Wilson, Attree, Taylor, Nicholson, Tweed, Ilesanmi, O’Boyle, Liddle

Subs: Mooney, Brodella, Smalley, Samuels

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STEVENAGE

THE DUGOUT

STEVE EVANS

Stevenage appointed Steve Evans as their new manager last March. Previously, the 60-year-old, Scot had managed over 570 games in the EFL Scot including guiding Rotherham United from League Two to the Championship in 2014. Other clubs on his managerial CV include Boston United, Crawley Town, Leeds United, Mansfield, Peterborough United and most recently, Gillingham who he joined in January 2019.

As a player, Evans played for Bolton Wanderers, Clyde, Albion Rovers, Ayr United, Hamilton Academical and St Johnstone until injury ended his playing career at 24.

Ryan Browne/Shutterstock

CLARK

ROBERTS

ROSE

PIERGIANNI

JAMES-WILDIN

SWEENEY

REEVES O’HARA

Al Walter/Shutterstock

Key men FOR THE BORO

CARL PIERGIANNI

The 30-year-old no-nonsense centre back back joined Stevenage in May 2022 with over 300 EFL appearances to his name, following spells at Salford City and most recently Oldham Athletic where he was captain of the Latics. Joining Oldham permanently from Salford City in summer 2020 after a loan spell, Piergianni earned legendary status with the Ammies after playing an influential part in their back-to-back promotions to the EFL. Prior to joining Salford, he began at Peterborough United where he came through their Academy before joining Stockport County in 2011. In 2013, he signed for Boston United and after 100 appearances for the Pilgrims moved to South Melbourne in Australia’s Second Division in January 2017 before joining Salford City that May. A real threat at set pieces, he has weighed in with four goals so far this season.

JAKE REEVES

Signing for Stevenage in June 2021 from Notts County, midfielder Jake Reeves is approaching 300 career appearances in the EFL for the likes of Brentford, AFC Wimbledon and Bradford City. The 29-year-old began his career in the youth system at Tottenham Hotspur, before starting his senior career with Brentford in 2011 in League One, turning out 46 times for the Bees before joining Swindon Town in August 2014. The following season he signed for AFC Wimbledon in January 2015 making 127 appearances for the Dons before joining Bradford City in July 2017. He left Valley Parade in August 2020 to join National League outfit Notts County.

JORDAN ROBERTS

Jordan Roberts became Steve Evans’ seventh signing of the summer transfer window. The 29-year-old, who operates primarily as a winger, moved to The Lamex following spells at Hearts and Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership. After making his professional debut in 2012, Roberts’ form at Crawley Town earned him a move to Championship side Ipswich Town in 2018. Loan spells at Lincoln City and Steve Evans’ Gillingham ensued before moving north to Scotland in August 2020. He is Boro’s top scorer this season with six goals.

LUKE NORRIS

Luke Norris joined hometown club Stevenage from Colchester United in January 2021 having made 96 appearances and scoring 23 goals during his time with the U’s. Having played in the youth academies at Luton Town, Hitchin Town and Brentford, the 29-year-old striker signed his first pro contract with the Bees in May 2011. During his four years at Brentford, he made five appearances and spent time on loan at Boreham Wood, Northampton Town and Dagenham & Redbridge. He signed for League One Gillingham in July 2014 and spent two years there, scoring 15 goals in 79 appearances before signing for Swindon Town in August 2016, making 80 appearances and scoring 20 goals in his two seasons there. He transferred to Colchester United in June 2018.

Al Walter/Shutterstock

Al Walter/Shutterstock

Jed Leicester/Shutterstock

Michael Zemanek/Shutterstock

MANAGING TO SUCCEED

RICHARD HILL

Richard Hill managed Stevenage to sixth place in the Conference in 199899. A former winger, he began with Leicester City and had a spell in New Zealand before joining Nuneaton Borough in March 1983. He starred as they were twice Conference runners-up and followed Graham Carr to Northampton Town in June 1985. Helping win the Fourth Division title in 1985-86, he moved via Watford to Oxford United and later coached at Reading and Wycombe Wanderers. He was Stevenage’s boss from January 1999 until January 2000, then held various coaching posts and managed Eastleigh to the Conference South title in 2013-14.

STEVE WIGNALL

Steve Wignall briefly managed Stevenage at the end of the 19992000 campaign. A former Liverpool junior, the central defender joined Doncaster Rovers in March 1972 and played alongside his brother Dave. He moved via Colchester United and Brentford to Aldershot in September 1986, starring in their 1986-87 Fourth Division play-off final success. Appointed manager of the re-formed Aldershot Town in June 1992, he rejoined Colchester as boss in January 1995. Plotting promotion in 1997-98, he managed Stevenage between March 2000 and May 2000, then Doncaster and Southend United before coaching Wivenhoe.

WAYNE TURNER

Wayne Turner managed Stevenage to the 2002 FA Trophy final. A former midfielder, he turned professional with Luton Town in April 1978 and featured in their 1981-82 Second Division title campaign. He joined Coventry City in July 1985, becoming captain, but suffered injuries and moved via Brentford to Barnet in July 1988. Helping Barry Fry’s side to win the Conference title in 1990-91, he later coached at Barnet, then back at Luton for a lengthy spell. He was Stevenage’s manager from February 2002 to February 2003, then scouted for Leicester City and Crystal Palace, becoming Luton’s head of youth.

GRAHAM WESTLEY

Graham Westley has spent four spells as Stevenage’s manager. The England Youth striker played for QPR, Gillingham and numerous non-League clubs, then managed Kingstonian, Enfield and was Farnborough’s manager/chairman. He managed Stevenage from February 2003 until May 2006 and Rushden & Diamonds. Returning in May 2008, he led Boro to two FA Trophy finals including their 2009 success, Conference title triumph in 2009-10 and promotion in 2010-11. He moved to Preston in January 2012 but returned in March 2013 until May 2015, then managed Peterborough, Newport County, Barnet and briefly Stevenage again.

MARK STIMSON

Mark Stimson plotted Stevenage’s 2007 FA Trophy success. A former full-back, he played for Spurs, Newcastle United, Portsmouth, Southend United, Leyton Orient and Canvey Island, gaining England SemiPro international honours and starring in their 2001 FA Trophy triumph. He managed Grays Athletic’s 2005 and 2006 FA Trophy successes and was Stevenage’s boss from May 2006 until November 2007 leaving to manage Gillingham. He plotted their 2008-09 League Two play-off final triumph and has since had spells as manager of Barnet, Kettering Town, Thurrock, Waltham Abbey and Hornchurch.

PETER TAYLOR

Ex-England international winger Peter Taylor managed Stevenage during 2007-08. Initially with Southend, he helped win promotion in 1971-72 and joined Crystal Palace in October 1973. He starred in their 1975-76 FA Cup run and moved to Spurs in September 1976, featuring in their 1977-78 promotion success. Later with Orient, Maidstone, Exeter, Heybridge and Chelmsford, he has managed Dartford, Southend, England U-21s, Gillingham (twice), Leicester, Brighton, Hull City, Crystal Palace, Stevenage from November 2007 until April 2008, Wycombe Wanderers, Bradford City, Bahrain, Dagenham & Redbridge and Welling.

GARY SMITH

Gary Smith managed Stevenage to the League One play-offs in 2011-12. A former midfielder with Fulham, Colchester United, Enfield, Wycombe Wanderers, Welling United, Barnet, Aylesbury and Gravesend & Northfleet, he was youth coach at Wimbledon, Wycombe Wanderers and Watford. Later scouting for Arsenal, he achieved managerial success with Colorado Rapids in the United States and was Stevenage’s manager from January 2012 until March 2013. He was in charge as they took Spurs to an FA Cup fifth round replay. Returning to the United States, he has since managed Atlanta Silverbacks and Nashville SC.

Football historian LEIGH EDWARDS profiles seven leading Stevenage managers...

Graham WestleySimon Dael/BPI/Shutterstock

Peter TaylorJed Leicester/Shutterstock

‘LOVE FOOTBALL. PROTECT THE GAME’

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

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

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

GRIMSBY TOWN

SKY BET LEAGUE TWO

Away fans are located in one corner of the Osmond Stand, at one end of the ground.

Prices: Adults £20

Concessions (65+/18-22yrs/Student) £13 14-17yrs £7 (if unaccompanied) I £5 (if accompanied)

GETTING THERE: (approx. 87 miles from Harrogate) Blundell Park, Cleethorpes, DN35 7PY

By Road: The ground is not actually in Grimsby, but the neighbouring town of Cleethorpes. Follow the signs for Grimsby on the M180, continue on this road when it becomes the A180. This road runs right past the Blundell Park and the ground is adjacent to the McDonalds Drive-Thru.

Car Parking: There is no car park at the ground, however, there are plenty of side roads off the A180 Grimsby Road

mostly before and immediately after Blundell Park. Please be aware that some areas close to the ground have match day parking restrictions.

By Rail: The nearest train station to the ground is Cleethorpes, which is around a 20 minute walk away.

By Bus: Stagecoach operate services that run to opposite Blundell Park. Look out for the no. 9, 13 and 46 routes.

Harrogate Town Independent Supporters Club Coach departs at 11am from Harrogate Members: Adults £15 I Under 18s £10 Non-Members: Adults £20 I Under 18s £12

To book, please contact Jordan Ford on 07989 969575. All Under 18’s must be accompanied by a responsible adult

HARROGATE TOWN

Manager: Simon Weaver

Mark Oxley 1 Miles Welch-Hayes 2 Joe Mattock 3 Josh Falkingham 4 Will Smith 5 Warren Burrell 6 George Thomson 7 Dior Angus 8 Danny Grant 9 Max Wright 11 Sam Folarin 12 Toby Sims 14 Anthony O’Connor 15 Alex Pattison 16 Josh Austerfield 17 Jack Muldoon 18 Tyler Frost 19 Kayne Ramsay 20 Pete Jameson 21 Stephen Dooley 22 Rory McArdle 23 Kyle Ferguson 24 George Horbury 25 Emmanuel Ilesanmi 26 Matty Daly 28 Luke Armstrong 29

Manager: Steve Evans

1 Aaron Chapman 2 Luther James-Wildin 3 Max Clark 4 Jake Reeves 5 Carl Piergianni 6 Dan Sweeney 7 Elliott List 8 Jake Taylor 9 Luke Norris 10 Dean Campbell 11 Jordan Roberts 12 Taye Ashby-Hammond 14 Kane Smith 15 Terence Vancooten 17 Alex Gilbey 18 Michael Bostwick 19 Jamie Reid 24 David Amoo 32 Danny Rose Jake Forster-Caskey Daryl Horgan