THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY MAGAZINE £2.00
Southern League Premier Division V
Cirencester Town Issue 23
14 08 The Best Midfielders In The World Today / Continuing the countdown we showcase Eden Hazard and Arturo Vidal!
04
28
View From The Dugout / Batchy reflects on recent results
Many happy returns! / Our Emily Dodson turns 18!
18 Where Are They Now? / Looking back at some famous names
Owner Mike Kearns
Club Secretary Gary Wilson
Physio Chris Budd
Club Photographer Claire Howes
Pitchcare Working Turf
Chairman Mike Kearns
Fixture Secretary Marian Izzard
Site Manager Irmantas Sabaliauskas
Design & Marketing Blue Prawn
Managing Director Lee Kearns
Life President John Walker
Functions and Events Coordinator Louise Spark
Chief Liaison Officer Mike Green
Print XL Press Limited
Director Iain Parr
Team Officials Darren Plowman (Goalkeeping Coach)
Football Manager David Batch Assistant Manager Steve Eastaugh
Youth Liaison & Development Mick Hunt
St Neots Town TV Editor Adam Ridley Club Merchandise Linda Walters Programme Editor Mark Davies
PAGE 02 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
Programme Sales Charlie Green Matchday Music / Scoreboard Simon Hutchinson
INSIDE
Issue 23 V Cirencester Town Southern League Premier Division
Also Inside 06 Action Replay 08 Match Report - Hitchin Town 13 Mascot Feature 16 Chairmans’ Views
46
20 Read All About It
38
22 The Beautiful Game 30 Pull-Out Poster 32 Greenies Greetings
Stews Views / The closest football league finishes
From The Other Side Of The Fence / Gary Birtles on Brian Clough
36 Away Days 44 MD’s Views 48 Leagues Review 50 Match Report - Poole Town 52 Commentators Gaffes 53 Season 2014/15 Fixtures Matrix
24 Todays’ Visitors / A warm welcome to the Centurians! Founded 1879 The Cozy Stadium Rowley Park, Kester Way St Neots PE19 6SL Telephone 01480 470012 Email enquiries@stneotstownfc.co.uk Official Website www.stneotstownfc.co.uk Official Forum www.stneotstownfc.co.uk/forum
40
54 The Non-League Paper 56 Season 2014/15 Statistics 58 Premier Division League Table 60 Home & Opposition Squads
Introducing Adam Tann / Bags of experience and Club Captain Southern Football League Division One champions, 1 time United Counties League Premier Division champions, 2 times Division One champions, 1 time League Cup winners, 2 times Metropolitan League Champions, 1 time League Cup winners, 1 time Professional Cup winners, 1 time South Midlands League Champions, 1 time
Huntingdonshire League Champions, 4 times Huntingdonshire Senior Cup Winners, 37 times Hinchingbrooke Cup Winners, 2 times
WWW.STNEOTSTOWNFC.CO.UK / PAGE 03
Welcome to all the players, staff, officials and supporters of Cirencester Town FC, I hope you enjoy your day with us. GREAT SUPPORT I have tended to end my notes with always positive comments on the support that the team have continued to receive in the games between my previous programme notes. This week I want to start by thanking you guys and girls for the extremely vociferous support that you continue to bring to all of the games... Not forgetting of course, the rousing beat of the drum thank you Ryan and Claire!!
I have been told that Poole supporters said it was the best away following they had seen all season and myself and the players certainly feel the difference with a set of people backing the team who are as passionate about the club as we are. Our last home match against Hitchin also produced a noisy support which undoubtedly was helped by the six goals we scored. One newcomer, who attended their first Saints game that day remarked that they were amazed by the positivity you have created, in particular when comparing with other clubs they have previously watched this season at both professional level and ours. So a BIG thank you again and I know that I keep asking, but we really NEED you to keep that going for the remainder of the season. LAST TWO GAMES I certainly would’ve taken 4 points from the two games beforehand
PAGE 04 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
and as is often the case after a performance, think we were little bit unfortunate not to take all of them. Against Hitchin I felt we looked dangerous when we had the ball but did feel we were a little bit sloppy in the first half defensively. The fact that we conceded at all, the only time in the last four games, underlines that opinion. Second half we were much better and we took that mentality into the away fixture at Poole where against a strong wind in the first half we needed to be resolute and organised, something which the players implemented impeccably. The second half was an improved offensive performance which saw us pin the league leaders into their half for much of the second 45 mins, which is why I was a bit disappointed we didn’t finish one of the chances
SPRINGY IN ACTION LAST SATURDAY
we had to work hard to create. NEXT TWO GAMES At this time of the season no-one is guaranteed a result as teams begin fighting for promotion or indeed, their survival, so it can almost be irrelevant whom your opponents are
as results begin to become less predictable. The key is executing the game plan well and if the opposition are able to withstand that, then you take your hats off to them knowing they have performed extremely well.
We can’t always guarantee performance, but the players will ensure we give heart and effort into the rest of our games as a minimum requirement and hope that we give you something to cheer! Batchy
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/STNEOTSTOWNFC / PAGE 05
A PROMISING PERFORMANCE FROM TEN YEARS AGO UCL Premier Division (7/March/2005) St Neots Town
2-0
Despite not being at their best St Neots persevered to score two very late goals against a very stubborn visiting Bourne side. The points lifted the Saints to seventh in the table and that is the highest position they have achieved this season. Bourne went home felling unlucky not to have taken at least a point from the match but the determination and spirit of Steve Kuhne’s side shone through perhaps needing to celebrate the February Manager of the Month Award presented to Kuhne prior to the match by League Chairman John Weeks. Without Russell Lawes and Damian Matthews St Neots opted to play Matt Endersby in an accustomed back four slot and he fitted in well. In the ninth minute James Hatch making his home debut almost scored but Mark O’Dea got back to clear off the line but as the first half progressed clear chances became fewer.
Bourne FC Gary Walker did get the ball in the net but his effort was ruled out by an offside trap but after 23 minutes Walker should have scored when Aaron Ridout cleared a Mark Franklin off the line leaving the striker with a volley from six yards but he ballooned the ball over the bar. With the first period resulting in a disappointing stalemate more was expected after the interval and it was Bourne who were able to raise their game. After a spell of pressure Nicky Hurst had to clear off the line from Sam Bettinson with Steve Young beaten and when Michael Stevenson put another chance wide it was the wake up call that St Neots needed. With just nine minutes left James Hatch produced an electric burst of speed on the right to leave two defenders in his wake and the visiting goalkeeper made a hash of collecting the cross and Gary Walker was on hand to scramble the ball into the net to claim his fifth goal in his last four matches.
PAGE 06 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
Four minutes later a Matt Endersby free kick was only cleared to the edge of the area and James Hatch sent in a low shot through the crowded area to claim his second St Neots goal to clinch all three points. It was not one of St Neots’ better performances but it maintained their unbeaten run at home that now stretches back to 6th December last year.
St Neots: Young, Grant, Endersby, Watts, Hurst, Hoggett, Hatch, Maltay, Kuhne, Walker (Smith 84 mins), Franklin, Subs not used: Griggs, Clark, and Fox. Goals: Walker (81 mins), Hatch (85 mins)
ST NEOTS TOWN 6 HITCHIN TOWN 2 21:02:2015 / Southern Premier Division / Att 547 / Referee: Paul Evans (Northampton)
For the second time at home this season St Neots hit six goals and that was thanks in the main to Lee Clarke making only his fourth appearance for his side and inspiring them to an important home victory over Hitchin with a hat trick in just 17 minutes in the first half. He became only the second St Neots player to claim a treble this season after being switched to lead the attack for the first time. With Nathan Frater and Lorenzo Ferrari both injured, Clarke clearly relished his role and although it was disappointing to concede two goals the overall performance was solid and convincing.
post to head home. He then doubled the lead three minutes later after the unfortunate Horlock had spilled a shot from Hilliard and from another free kick Bruce Wilson sent a shot over the bar.
If the first half had cheered the local supporters better was to follow as St Neots almost completely dominated the second 45 minutes. Ten minutes after the restart a cross from the right by Matt Spring eluded the defence and Lewis Hilliard swept a low shot into the net to add to St Neots lead.
Returning to the club on loan from Luton Town after just three appearances last season Brett Longden was impressive operating wide right and leading scorer Drew Roberts helped himself to two more goals as Hitchin crumbled in the second half. St Neots began strongly and could have scored three times in the first five minutes. An opportunist volley by Clarke in the first attack was juggled by visiting keeper Charlie Horlock before being cleared and then Clarke set up Lewis Hilliard who shot was pushed away at full stretch by the keeper. Matt Spring then curled a free kick around the defensive wall beating the keeper but his shot deflected off a post. However St Neots was not going to be denied for long and after 16 minutes from another Spring free kick Clarke found space at the far
Two minutes before the break St Neots received a wake up call when Matt Lench took full advantage of some hesitant defending to make the score 3-2 after an entertaining first half.
Hitchin responded against the run of play when from their first real attack Paul Bastock racing from his line could only parry a cross and Lucas Kirkpatrick reduced the arrears with a skilful chip into the unguarded net. However the two goal cushion was quickly restored as Clarke at the near post got a flick on a Hilliard cross that had eluded the goalkeeper and despite the best efforts to clear on the line by a defender an eagle eyed Assistant Referee ruled that the ball was over the line and Clarke’s hat trick was completed.
Jack Wilkinson did well to block a fierce volley as Hitchin sought to stay in the match but after 68 minutes a fifth St Neots goal all but settled the outcome. It came from a long throw into the six yards box by Jack Wilkinson and when Horlock fumbled the ball ace poached Drew Roberts was quickly in to take full advantage. Now Hitchin looked a well beaten side and to add the icing on the cake Roberts added the final goal when left unmarked by the tiring visiting defence. He bided his time allowing the keeper to come out to narrow the angle before hitting a fierce shot in off the underside of the cross bar.
John Walker
St Neots Town
Hitchin Town
Bastock, Tann, Wilkinson, Wilson, Mitchel-King, Ward, Hilliard, Spring, Clarke, Roberts, Longden. Subs: Harty (for Wilson 65), Bickerstaff (for Hilliard 68), Vieira (for Clarke 83), Hobbs and Frater (R) Cards: Clarke (Y – 18) Goals: Lee Clark 3 (16, 19 & 33 mins), Drew Roberts 2 (68 and 80 mins), Lewis Hilliard (55 mins)
Horlock, Rolfe, Walster, Ann, Webb, Barker, McNamara, Lench, Martin, Kirkpatrick, Rees. Subs: Donnelly (for Martin 63), Smith (for Walston 76), Peacock (for Kirkpatrick 76), Williams and Johnson. Cards: Webb (Y – 22), Barker (Y – 37) Goals: Lucas Kirkpatrick (31 mins), Matt Lench (43 mins)
PAGE 08 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
WWW.STNEOTSTOWNFC.CO.UK / PAGE 09
BRUCE WILSON ON THE CHARGE
LEWIS HILLIARD ON THE BALL
PAGE 12 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
Mascot feature Mascot Fact File Name: Alfie Lee Fitzgibbom Age: 04 Favourite St Neots Player and why: Lorenzo Ferrari as he has the same name as a fast car! Who do you play for? I don’t play for anyone yet but I want to be a goalkeeper like my daddy Who do you support: Spurs What do you want to be when older: I want to be a footballer Favourite food: Beef Hula Hoops Favourite film: Transformers Do you have any pets? We have a cat called Bimbo and two fish called Mr Fish and Mr Mr Fish Name: Lilly Kiernan-Prior Age: 07 Favourite St Neots Player: I don’t have a favourite player, I just like the ground and people. Who do you play for? I don’t play for a team Who do you support: Spurs Favourite food: My favourite food is Italian pasta Favourite film: Frozen Do you have any pets? We have a cat called Bimbo and two fish called Mr Fish and Mr Mr Fish
The Saints Matchday Mascot Experience! • Free entry for mascot and parents • Use of our hospitality room • Signed match day programme by your favourite player, which you will also appear in • Meet your favourite player and have your photo taken • Tour of the stadium • Have a kick about on the main pitch • Lead the Saints on to the pitch • Free portion of chips and drink for the mascot
To apply to be a Matchday Mascot contact Louise Spark on misslouises@yahoo.co.uk
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/STNEOTSTOWNFC / PAGE 13
WORLD’S BEST MIDFIELDERS 06. EDEN HAZARD
Eden Hazard’s rise over the past couple of years has been meteoric, with the Belgian starlet undergoing a remarkable transformation from precocious Lille youngster to Ligue 1 sensation to one of the most sought after players in Europe. The fleet-footed attacker has drawn comparisons to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, but perhaps the greatest compliment has been the willingness of the Belgian press to proclaim that Hazard has what it takes to fill the enormous boots left by the legendary Enzo Schifo. Born into a footballing family, Hazard’s youth career took in Belgian sides Royal Stade Brainois and Tubize before he settled at Lille as a 14-year-old in 2005. Two years later and the teenage prodigy had made his debut in the French top flight, going on to make a handful of substitute appearances in the 2007-08 season. The following campaign was a real breakthrough year, though, as he went from impact sub to first-team talisman in the space of a few months, with his sparkling performances earning him an international debut for Belgium and the Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year award. “Eden is technically gifted and very fast. I would take him to Real Madrid with my eyes closed. He can become a great footballer, he is a star of the future.”
Eden Hazard Height
5’7” (1.72m)
Weight
163 lbs (74 kg)
Age
PAGE 14 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
24
Date of Birth
07.01.1991
Place of Birth
Belgium
Strikers may score most of the goals, but many of the game’s real artisans reside in midfield. Here are 10 of the best of the very best in the world today.
05. ARTURO VIDAL Chile international Arturo Vidal has emerged as one of the finest box-to-box midfielders in the world with his combative approach, composure on the ball and clinical edge in front of goal. Nicknamed Il Guerriero (The Warrior) by Juventus supporters, Vidal has become one of the first names on the teamsheet for both club and country. And after claiming a third successive Scudetto with Juve in 2013-14. His rise to prominence began as a youth at the famed Colo-Colo academy, where he won three consecutive championships and finished as a runner-up in the 2006 Copa Sudamericana. Vidal became an ever-present in the Leverkusen line-up and his versatility proved indispensable to the Bundesliga outfit as he featured in central midfield, right back, defensive midfield, left midfield and behind the striker. Despite mainly figuring in front of the back four, Vidal managed to accumulate ten goals and 11 assists in the 2010-11 league season, earning him a spot in the Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund-dominated Team of the Year. “If [Gareth] Bale is worth 100 million Euros, Vidal is also worth that figure,” Juventus general director Giuseppe Marott.
Arturo Vidal Height
5’10” (1.78m)
Weight
163 lbs (74 kg)
Age
27
Date of Birth
22.05.1987
Place of Birth
Chile
WWW.STNEOTSTOWNFC.CO.UK / PAGE 15
THE CHAIRMANS’ VIEWS
DOING THE CLUB PROUD Welcome to the officials, Players and Supporters of Cirencester Town for today’s fixture. I remember the last encounter very well a very odd game indeed ending in a draw, then I thought it was two points lost and maybe I still do but Cirencester have proven to be formidable opposition who are challenging with us for a play off position. So any point “On the road” is a good point. A very big match today for both teams and we will be hoping to gain the win our performance have deserved since Dave and his team took over the First team. And what an impact they have made, we scored goals for fun but unfortunately we let bucket loads in as well. Very good for the supporters, well some of them maybe. But certainly not for us hard fast supporters who just about kick every ball we play. It means a lot to many of us this football club and there is
nothing better than watching the Saints every fixture if we can make it. Not being able to get to a match is really frustrating and leaves you quite numb as I found out last Saturday away to Poole town in what was our biggest fixture to date this season. Previous arrangements meant I could not attend and what a nail biting couple of hours that was, at times I was so tense I just could not look at the tweets that were coming from our wonderful supporters on the progression of the game. It drove me mad and the funny thing is that for some reason you expect the worst as you scroll down your phone looking at the latest score and chances. I even did that very slowly reading each line as it came through bracing myself for the worst. Of course I should not have worried as
this team really give very little away and once it got to half time I was more relaxed, or maybe not. A great away point of which we have taken before we travelled down to Poole, and we nearly won the game with an impressive second half performance. Much praise was heaped on the travelling Rabble about their conduct and the noisy support they gave to the team. I am really proud of you all because we could not have a better representation they you. You all do the club proud, thank you one and all. It looks like I will have to miss todays match as well as I have to go the wedding of one of my best mates, a Chelsea supporter of course but he is marrying a Girl from Newcastle and on football weekend as well. That is seriously bad planning, maybe I can sneak out or leave a cardboard cut out of myself and get to our game, then sneak back again. If I could get away with it I certainly would try. So there or not lets get behind the team as I know you all will and help us on our promotion push because it has not become just that. Five years ago this would have just been a dream none of us would have had. We could have been playing away to someone like Bourne. (all due respects to them). So keep the navy blue flag flying and lets see where this takes us.
ALL FOR ONE AND ONE FOR ALL Mike
PAGE 16 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
WHERE
ARE THEY
NOW
?
We look back on some famous n what they are doing in their life “If you have only one passion in life - football - and you pursue it to the exclusion of everything else, it becomes very dangerous. When you stop doing this activity it is as though you are dying. The death of that activity is a death in itself.”
ERIC CANTONA: MANCHESTER UNITED If anyone has the exact blend of characteristics required of a cult hero, it’s Eric Cantona. The unpredictable and wildly talented footballer spent five years at Old Trafford before hanging up his boots permanently in 1997. When he retired, Cantona was just 30 and he, like so many great icons, will be remembered at the peak of his game, with no gradual decline to mar the memory. His rap sheet, although lengthy, is far outweighed by what he could do on the pitch. The impact of his arrival at Old Trafford cannot be underestimated—arriving halfway through the 1992/93 season, Manchester United won the league title for the first time since 1967. A huge part of that is down to Cantona, who went on to win three more Premier League crowns with United. Over the years, as they became a dominant force in English football, United’s No. 7 was assuming legendary status among United fans, who loved his unique brand of collar-up arrogance. His infamous kung-fu kick, subsequent ban from the game and triumphant return only added to the enigma that was Cantona.
PAGE 18 /
He didn’t toe the party line when it came to being a footballer—he enjoyed poetry and philosophy, he painted expressionist art and frequented all of Manchester’s museums. He also, brilliantly, grew up in a cave. After retiring, Cantona delved into beach football—where he became captain, and later manager, of the French team. He also adopted the role of director of soccer with the New York Cosmos in 2011, as seen on the BBC Sport website. He has also carved out a good on-screen career, appearing in many films including Elizabeth and Looking for Eric. Most recently, Cantona has been reported to be starring in an erotic comedy film, cast as “The Stallion,” according to the Mirror’s Joe Mewis. Like the best of cult heroes, life is never boring with Eric Cantona.
ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
us names and see fe after football.
WHERE
ARE THEY
NOW
?
DUNCAN FERGUSON: EVERTON Somewhere, deep in the unwritten rules of what makes a cult hero, are the laws of the “hard man.” The Premier League has had its fair share of them and most have been elevated to cult status. Duncan Ferguson is no exception. Nicknamed “Big Dunc” and “Duncan Disorderly,” the former Everton man makes Joey Barton look about as threatening as Michael Owen. Ferguson’s misdemeanours include not only bans from football but several counts of assault, one of which landed him a three-month prison sentence, as seen in the Independent. The Scot initially came to Goodison Park on loan but was signed up by Joe Royle as soon as he became manager. If there was one surefire way to gain entry into Everton fans’ hearts, it was by scoring on his debut against none other than Merseyside rivals, Liverpool. Injuries and indiscipline were scattered through the years he spent at the club, but his fierce determination and passion ensured he was a crowd favourite. For those who were not sure, an Everton tattoo revealed after he scored against Liverpool during his second stint at the club won him even more fans. Hospitalising an intruder who broke into his house in 2001 served only to add to the player’s hard-man reputation, as seen on the BBC News website.
Upon retiring, Ferguson moved to Majorca before embarking on a coaching career with Everton’s youth academy. He currently coaches the U18s and has been tipped to manage the club one day.
“It was the best 10 years of my career, in fact they are the only team I ever actually played for. That’s what happens when you play for Everton, you forget the rest, the rest means nothing.”
WWW.STNEOTSTOWNFC.CO.UK / PAGE 19
READ ALL ABOUT IT We take a look at what other non-league clubs are doing that’s making the news this week. BANBURY UNITED John McLoughlin, chairman Dunstable Town, has announced the departure of manager Darren Croft. McLoughlin said: “Darren Croft has resigned as manager of Dunstable Town with immediate effect. “I had hoped that Darren would remain as manager until the end of the season but he has declined this offer. “I wish to thank Darren for his hard work and commitment and congratulate him on the success he has achieved for DTFC in recent reasons. “I have plans for the club that will strive to strengthen and improve on the success that has already been achieved by Darren and Paul Reeves but firmly believe that the level the club is now requires new management to move us forward. “I have appointed Tony Fontanelle as caretaker-manager until the end of the season and will review the situation at that time.” HUNGERFORD TOWN Hungerford Town manager Bobby Wilkinson has agreed a new one-year extension to his contract as he bids to guide the club into Conference football next season. Wilkinson is a highly-rated young
manager with a wealth of experience having worked under Mark McGhee as a player; he was also involved with current Liverpool manager Brendon Rogers and former Leeds and Reading manager Brian McDermott and was part of the Reading backroom staff that went to the Wembley play-offs.He played professionally for Reading and also had a spell with Fulham but his career was cut short by injury. At a young age, he switched to coaching and found more experience at Didcot Town reserves, Kintbury Rangers and Milton United before taking the helm at Hungerford in May 2010. In his third season as a manager he won the Basingstoke Senior Cup and made history for the club when he won the play-off final against Merthyr Town taking Hungerford to the Southern Premier Division - the highest level they have ever played at. Wilkinson agreed his new deal with director of football Nigel Warrick and said: “I’m pleased to get everything sorted early.” BIDEFORD Bideford have signed Myles James on loan from rivals Truro City and may bring in another new face. The Robins have recently lost top goalscorer Sean Downing to injury and striker Ben Watson, who has joined another league rival, Dorchester Town. Despite
PAGE 20 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
the addition of Billy Tucker, who has scored twice in three games since arriving from Toolstation Western Leaguers Barnstaple Town, manager Sean Joyce is still looking to strengthen his squad. “Myles is on contract at Truro but we have brought him on loan to add a bit of competition to the squad,” Joyce said. “He can play left-back or leftwing and will get a chance to show us what he can do.” BIGGLESWADE TOWN Defender Ollie Thorne has become the latest new signing for Biggleswade Town. Following the recent arrivals of Dave Hutton and Jay Davies, Thorne, 25, moves to the Carlsberg Stadium from Vanarama Conference South side Hemel Hempstead Town, having spent time on loan with the Waders earlier this season. The tall and powerful defensive central defender/ midfielder started his career as a youth team player at MK Dons before being snapped up by Conference Premier side Forest Green Rovers, who signed him up on a one-year deal. He then moved on to Newport County before joining Kidderminster Harriers and then went on loan to Rushden & Diamonds before signing for Braintree Town. He then joined Bedford Town in August 2011 and last season played for St Neots Town and Arlesey Town, picking up a few goals in the process. He has made
eleven appearances for the Tudors this season. CHESHAM UNITED Andy Leese, manager of Chesham United, has taken two players on dual registration from Vanarama Conference South side Maidenhead United. Forward Jonathan Hippolyte, 21, and Melchi Emanuel-Williamson, 20, a defender, have both checked into The Meadow. Hippolyte, son of Maidenhead boss Johnson, came through the Magpies ranks. He has gained experience with loan spells with the likes of Aylesbury FC, Hendon and, earlier this season, North Greenford United. EmanuelWilliamson joined the Magpies in 2013 having been with Yeovil Town, where he came through the youth and reserves to the first-team squad. He was previously on the books at Fulham for eight years. Leese said: “They both have some experience at the level above, and are keen to come and help us in the final run in. “We have some injury issues as is evident from the last couple of games, but we should have one or two back now as we look to follow up last weekend’s win.” FROME Adrian Foster, manager of Southern Premier Frome Town has
pulled off something of a coup by securing the signing of former Yeovil Town and Aldershot Town defender Anthony Tonkin. Tonkin departed Vanarama Conference Aldershot recently and the Robins have fought off competition from several clubs in higher leagues as well as in the Southern Premier to sign him until the end of the season. The experienced Tonkin has had a distinguished career notching up over 450 appearances playing for Yeovil, Stockport County, Crewe Alexandra, Forest Green Rovers, Grays Athletic and Aldershot. Foster was delighted with the signing at this crucial time of the season: “I’ve known Tonks for a number of years and he was keen to come and help us out for the next couple of months and his experience will really add a huge deal to the squad. “He has had a lot of much better offers both financially and in terms of level but that’s not come into it with his decision and we are really pleased to welcome him to the club.”
made twenty-nine appearances for the Bluebells this season, scoring two goals.
CIRENCESTER TOWN
ARLESEY TOWN
Jordan Ricketts has signed for Cirencester Town from Southern Division One South & West side Yate Town. Ricketts joined Yate in January 2014 looking to play regular senior football, having come up through the ranks at Vanarama Conference South outfit Bath City. Ricketts has
Arlesey Town have signed striker Geoff Mitchell from Ryman League Premier Division club Canvey Island from Vanarama Conference South side St Albans City in November. Mitchell, a powerful striker who stands 6`5”, has previously played for Redbridge, Hayes & Yeading United and Billericay Town.
CAMBRIDGE CITY Gary Roberts, manager Cambridge City, has added two players to his squad. Midfielder Jon Kaye joins the Lilywhites on non-contract terms. He will be no stranger to the followers of City as he made two appearances for the first-team during 2013. He then subsequently left but has now returned to Cambridge and in recent weeks has been training with the club and playing for the reserves. Also joining the club is Ross Collins (pictured) who joins on loan for a month from Southern Division One Central side Royston Town. Collins, 23, plays in central midfielder who has previously had spells with Cheshunt, Hertford Town, Potters Bar Town and Standon & Puckridge.
WWW.STNEOTSTOWNFC.CO.UK / PAGE 21
THE BEAUTIFUL GAME
LIBERTY-Y You’ve all heard of the pop group Liberty–X haven’t you? Well, if not, you can be forgiven for that as they were pretty dire! They were formed in 2002 during the TV show ‘Popstars’ which aimed to create a pop group, similar to today’s X-Factor show. Liberty –X were the ones who didn’t make it in to the eventual fabricated group called ‘Hearsay’ – yeah, another band you may not have heard of, as they too….were pretty dire! You may be wondering what this has to do with football. Well, there’s not going to be a reality show to create a new football club (or is there????) and No, a member of one of the groups has not signed professional a contract [similar to Louis Tomlinson at Donny Rovers]. The truth is, there’s a new band about to hit the charts and although not officially formed or named as yet, for the purpose of this article, I hereby name them ‘Liberty – Y’. Championship side [whether you feel they should be or not} Yeovil Town have announced that they are holding auditions for girls aged 18+ so that a girl band can be formed. The band will perform during each game at Yeovil’s Huish Park, not in conjunction with the football obviously but before and after [although during might be a good idea for the fans as the football’s not up to much of late]. The plan is to release the songs on iTunes and set the charts alight. They’ll also raise money for worthwhile charities along the way which is great. Depending on how good their vocal skills turn out to be, it may not be so ‘great’ for the 7,000 Yeovil fans that have to endure the pop sensations. Perhaps now is a good time for the club shop at Huish Park to introduce a new line
in the form of Ear Muffs? For those of us that have witnessed some form of cheerleaders during a half time break at a game, these are rarely the kind of athletic girls with some degree of gymnastic training that you see at the American Football games on TV. The cheerleaders here, who grace our turf during football games, are quite possibly the ones who were picked last for any teams in PE at school. You know the type. Sadly, so do I, I was one of them, picked last, and it still hurts to this day! This bunch of social misfits does provide us with light entertainment at away games though and it’s great that they’re getting some exercise, so let them have their fun. Let’s take our hats off to the Glovers of Yeovil for their innovative idea with this new venture. Who knows, it may catch on and in a few years’ time, football clubs up and down the country will be better known for their clubs’ accompanying girl-band than their football?
PAGE 22 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
Is there ever a good time to promote ladies frolicking around in skimpy outfits at football stadia? Would it distract the players from performing to their full potential? Do they need this kind of distraction hanging around the changing rooms? Yeovil officials say ‘The benefits of the new girl group would include raising money for charity and giving the club exposure to new fans via the pop charts’. The Yeovil fans probably say ‘we’d be delighted to see something aesthetically pleasing on the turf here at Huish Park, rather than the current under- performing 1st team squad!!’ Enjoy today’s game, make yourself heard and don’t forget to Pre-order your copy of the ‘Liberty-Y’ debut single! Go on…..it is for charity after all.
Ade
TODAY’S VISITORS
CIRENCESTER TOWN
The Centurions make their first ever visit to the Cozy Stadium following their promotion to step three at the end of last season. Today we welcome to our visitors for our next engagement in the Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division. They are the players, Directors and supporters of Cirencester Town and we extend to them our usual warm welcome on their first ever visit to the Cozy Stadium. Cirencester are the last of this season’s newcomers to the Division to visit us at St Neots and they have enjoyed a similarly successful season as ourselves. The current league table shows our two sides in sixth and seventh places in the league table immediately below the play off places. Our lads currently hold just a single point advantage over our visitors but they have a considerably better goal difference – the sort of factor that could be vital when the final league table is published. Significantly Cirencester have the best away record in the Division at present with
ten victories from eighteen matches on foreign soil – and we hope that will not be further improved this afternoon. With just eight games each to be completed after this afternoon we really are getting to the business end of the season and the first aim for both teams must be to finish in the top five and pit their wits against the others who are to feature in those critical end of season play offs. Looking at the remaining fixtures it is fourth in the table Hungerford that may hold the key to the fortunes of our respective teams because they are one side in the top five that both of us have to play in the all important run in. We host Hungerford next Saturday whilst Cirencester are at home to Hungerford on 18th April. Cirencester also have to host league leaders Poole Town in a rearranged fixture on Tuesday 17th March. However regardless of all of the ‘ifs’
PAGE 24 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
and ‘maybe’s’ both Cirencester and St Neots are destined for their best ever finishes at Step Three of the National Leagues system – a factor to be celebrated. CLUB HISTORY Cirencester Town Football Club was formed in October 1889. They play at the Corinium Stadium opened in 2002. The complex provides well designed and adaptable facilities for parties, celebrations, wedding receptions, corporate conferences, training courses and meetings as well as being the home of a Charter Standard Community Football Club. It is located on the edge of Cirencester, a thriving Cotswolds market town. There are several high quality country hotels within the area as well as a wide range of attractive inns and bed and breakfast locations. Cirencester became founding members of the Gloucestershire County League in
Year founded: 1928 Nickname: The Centurions Chairman: Steve Abbley
Website: cirencestertownfc.com Stadium: Corinium Stadium Capacity: 4,500
Previous Meetings: 2014/15 Cirencester 1-1 St Neots
1968–69, but joined the Hellenic League Premier Division the following season. Cirencester were relegated to Division One in 1978, and remained in the division until finishing runners-up in 1990–91; gaining promotion to the Premier Division. The following season they finished runners-up, and then in 1995–96 were crowned champions. This saw the team promoted to the Southern League Southern Division. For the 1999–2000 season they were transferred to the Western Division. Cirencester Town was promoted to the Premier Division after a third placed finish in 2003–04. They were relegated to the South and West Division in 2008, but returned to the Premier Division in 2009–10 after winning the playoffs. The club was relegated again in 2012. After winning the Southern League South and West division in the 2013/14 season Cirencester were returned to
the Premier Division for the 2014/15 season. They stormed to the league title in style finishing three points clear of long time favourites Merthyr Town conceding only 45 goals in their 42 matches.
Two. Their Third Round Tie at home to Premier Division Hungerford was twice delayed by the weather but played at the third attempt and seniority prevailed with Hungerford winning 4-1 after being behind at half time.
Prior to last season Cirencester achieved their best ever league finish in 2003/04 when they finished third in the Western Division of the Southern League. They have twice reached the Fourth Qualifying Round of the FA Cup – in 2001/02 and 2003/04 and their best performance in the FA Trophy was sandwiched in between in 2002/03 when they reached the Third Round. Whilst at Step Five in the 1975/76 season they reached the Third Round of the FA Vase. In the Red Insure Cup last season they won two away matches against South and West Division opponents – at Cinderford Town in Round One and at Swindon Supermarine in Round
Cirencester Town FC believe they have a fighting chance of breaking their record attendance for a Southern League game when they hold their 125th anniversary celebrations in three weeks time at the Corinium Stadium.The first team will be taking on Arlesey Town in a 3pm kick-off as they bid to follow up their championship winning season in 2013/14 with promotion from the Southern Premier to the Football Conference. And the call has gone out to all former players, coaches, managers and supporters alike to come back and enjoy the anniversary party.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/STNEOTSTOWNFC / PAGE 25
WHO’S WHO
THE CENTURIONS
BRIAN HUGHES
BRIAN HUGHES – MANAGER Having started his career at Swindon Town as an apprentice, Brian made his League debut in 1980 away to Reading. He moved to Torquay United in August 1983 and made 42 starts for the Gulls before signing for Cheltenham Town on a free transfer in July 1984. The skilful right midfielder was everpresent during his first campaign at Whaddon Road, as Cheltenham won the Southern League title for this first time in their history to clinch promotion to the Conference. He was named as Player of the Year at the end of the memorable season and was also the Robins’ 2nd top scorer with 27 goals (top scorer was former Cirencester Town Assistant Manager and Cheltenham Town legend Mark Boyland). Brian scored a total of 56 goals in 226 starts for Cheltenham and featured in the FA Cup first round trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers during the 1987/88 season. After four successful years at Cheltenham, he moved to local rivals Gloucester City in August 1988 for £4,000. He captained the Tigers to the Southern League Midland Division title in 1989 and runners-up spot in the Premier Division in 1991, when Gloucester came agonisingly close to joining Cheltenham in the Conference. After 243 starts and 18 PAGE 26 /
KEVIN WILLETTS
AIDAN BENNETT
goals for the Tigers and a spell as player-coach under the managerial reign of John Murphy, Brian left Gloucester with Murphy to join Witney Town in 1996. He returned to Meadow Park as assistant to Leroy Rosenior, before taking over as boss in November 1998. He was surprisingly sacked in February 2000 and took over as boss back at Witney in the Southern League Eastern Division, before joining Ciren as First Team Manager in 2002. KEVIN WILLETTS – ASSISTANT MANAGER Former clubs include Sharpness, Worrall Hill, Cheltenham Town, Sharpness, Cheltenham Town, Forest Green Rovers, Gloucester City, Weston Super Mare, Kidderminster Harriers, Worcester City, Witney Town. Experienced campaigner and Brian Hughes reliable number two who has a strong desire to win football matches. Uncompromising on the pitch as a player and now the same from the dugout. AIDAN BENNETT – DEFENDER Rejoined the team this year having played for the Academy the last two seasons. Strong on either side, loves a tackle and is not scared of going forward, although is quick to get back. Often scores long range goals, and is good at getting into small tight holes. Revels in his nickname—Jane.
ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
ELLIS DUNTON
SHANE BUMPHREY – STRIKER The Rough Diamond. Un-coached, unpredictable, natural talent. Shane came from local football two seaons ago and has been league top scorer in both seasons. Has established himself as a regular in the first team. ADAM CLATWORTHY – GOALKEEPER Adams third season with the Development after transferring from neighbours Fairford Town. Previously at our Academy. BOBBIE DALE – STRIKER Young striker who joined us for a month’s loan from Cheltenham Town in October 2014 and scored in his debut. JACOB DAVIDGE – STRIKER Second season for the club. Establishing himself at adult level after spending time at Swindon Town and our own Under 16’s team. Featured for the first team at 16, left footed with pace makes him dangerous and he will only get better. ELLIS DUNTON – MIDFIELD Ellis is a very promising young midfielder who has come through our Junior ranks from the age of four to become a key player for our Development Team. Ellis is a strong determined player who is good in the air and on the deck, who is able to play on either side of the pitch as he possesses two good feet. Ellis
Jack Smith (Striker) Our most intelligent footballer, Jack was released by Swindon at 16 after 5 seasons. He joined the Development team at 16 whilst also playing for the Academy. Jack is now learning to be greedier in front of goal.
JACOB DAVIDGE
JAMES MORTIMER-JONES
made three substitute appearances for the First Team during the 2010-11 season before making his first full appearance in March 2011 at home to Hednesford Town and marking it by being awarded the Four Pillars Man of the Match award. DANNY GUDGER – STRIKER Joins from local league this season, has pace and an eye for goal, coupled with his hard work in pre season to get fit for this level, this season will be an interesting one for him. ROBBIE JAMES – MIDFIELDER Previously with the highly successful U16’s Robbie is a big, strong and determined lad and coupled with a footballing ability. There are high hopes for “Little Jammer” at this club KIERAN JONES – MIDFIELD At 18 he’s been a “first pick” for the Development over the past two seasons. A technique similar to Gerrard, who is also his hero (along wirh Rich Dickson) TOM LUCE – DEFENDER / MIDFIELD Extremley talented footballer. Second season with the Dev Team. Prefers midfield but also offers control and composure playing at right back. JAMES MORTIMER-JONES – MIDFIELD A reliable and hard working
MARK PRITCHETT
midfielder with a good eye for goal who signed for the club from Didcot Town in October 2010. James came through the youth ranks at Shrewsbury Town from Uner 10’s to Under 16’s and later became a youth trainee at the club. Moving South, he joined Carterton in 2000 before joining North Leigh in 2006 and then Didcot in 2008. He impressed during our two match FA Cup defeat to Didcot in September 2010, scoring a well-taken goal in the replay. In only his second march for Ciren, he then “returned the compliment” with a superb long range goal in our away league match at Didcot. GEORGE PEARE – DEFENDER Arrived in December 13 from local side Bibury FC. Big, strong, nice touch, a promising addition. KYLE PITTS – DEFENDER Team Captain, great all round defender who has a passion for winning. Started to feature and look comfortable for the first team. MARK PRITCHETT – DEFENDER Mark signed for the club in October 2009 and is a left footed defender who can play either at centre half or left back. He played for Gloucester City Under 18’s before going onto play at Slimbridge and Hardwicke. At the beginning of the 2009-10 season, he was signed by Mike Davis at Cinderford Town. Unfortunately
JAMIE REID
after playing a handful of games for Cinderford, Mike Davis left the club and Mark found himself out of favour with the new management team and decided to look for a new opportunity. Mark rejoined Ciren in late December 2013 from Shortwood United, after starring in their FA Cup run and earning a Man of the Match Award for their First Round Proper match at home to Port Vale. JAMIE REID – MIDFIELD Jamie signed for us in September 2008 from Gloucester City, where he came through the youth ranks to become a regular member of their first team squad clocking up over 120 appearances. He had previously played local league football for Hardwicke at a very young age. Jamie made an immediate impact in our midfield and, after a number of commanding performances, he was rewarded with the captain’s armband during the 2008-09 season. In January 2010, Gloucester City made an approach for Jamie.The lure of rejoining his hometown club and playing at a higher level was too much to resist for Jamie and he re-signed for them. However, after a short spell at Gloucester, Jamie returned to Ciren in March 2010 and made an important contribution in our qualifying and then winning the Play Offs.
WWW.STNEOTSTOWNFC.CO.UK / PAGE 27
Happy 18th Birthday
to Emily Dodson from all at St Neots Town FC
Everyone who comes through the turnstiles sees Emilys smiling face! PAGE 28 /
ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
Sponsored by Steve Ridley
No
FR
To b
Su
sc
Vi EE e tio w n R !
rip
eq
ui
re d
Official TV Channel
Extended Match Highlights Post-Match Analysis and Interviews All the Goals, Outtakes and Behind the Scenes Coverage Tune in to your club... www.stneotstownfc.co.uk
IF ONLY
GREENIES GREETINGS
THE ‘12TH MAN’ IS PROVING A VITAL PLAYER IN THE SQUAD Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen and welcome back to Rowley Park – The Cozy Stadium, for today’s Evostik League Southern Premier Division match. Today we extend a warm welcome to the Players, Officials and Supporters of Cirencester Town and we hope you enjoy your first ever visit to our home today. Another massive game for the club today as we face another club who have play-off aspirations like ourselves and of course, next week, we face Hungerford Town, who are currently sitting inside the top six places, here at The Cozy, so the big matches are really coming thick and fast as we reach the business end of the season. This is really an exciting time to be a supporter of this club and the more people we can persuade to come along to sample what we have on offer, the better in the long run as if, should it happen, we gain promotion via the playoffs, we will be playing teams who regularly play in front of one thousand plus crowds week in, week out and also take good travelling support on the road with them (something we are lucky to do already). Please do try and get friends and relatives to come down
for our remaining matches as the extra vocal support will of course come in very handy. Saturday saw us make the trek down to Dorset as we took on league leaders Poole Town and as previously mentioned,
we took a good following with us with supporters travelling on the coach, by car and even a mini bus full of fans certainly made a good impression on the home support, as we cheered on the boys from before the game had even started until a good 10 minutes after the final whistle. We certainly support the team in the right way, unlike scenes
PAGE 32 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
we have seen from some visiting fans to our ground this season and this was commented upon by the locals down in Poole. It was a great game to watch with the home side on top in the first half and ourselves dominating the second, kicking downhill into the goal with the newly built covered terrace behind it, in which we were positioned and with Claire banging out the beats on the drum and of course, some metal panelling to bang on with our hands, we certainly made some noise. I will say it does get a bit tricky trying to sing and tweet at the same time but I think it all went ok and I managed to keep you all reasonably up to speed. As the final whistle blew and a valuable point was gained, every single player and all the management team acknowledged our part played in the afternoon’s proceedings, as they all stood and applauded us. Just a little thing you may think but it really does make you feel part of the ‘team’, proving once again, the ‘12th man’ is proving a vital player in the squad. Right then, on with today’s game and I think my team talk is done. Go out there and give the lads everything you’ve got, 100% vocal support. You know it’s appreciated.
PUMP UP THE VOLUME GREENY
LEE GETS IN A TACKLE
AWAY DAYS
GLASSWORKS STADIUM Our next away day is to the home of Cambridge City, who play their football at the glassworks stadium the home of Histon FC. The Lillywhites seem to be a bit of a bogy side to us as we have only beaten them once since we were promoted to the Premier division, however that was one of the best performances we have ever given winning 5-0 away from home. This season city took our scalp once again by beating us 1-0 at Rowley park earlier in the season. Settling 16th in the table City will be just as formidable as they have always been and we need to be at our very best to come away with anything. Last season city under the guidance of Gary Roberts who has been manager of the club for some 12 seasons finished season 2113/14 a creditable 3rd in the Southern League premier division. A play off place was secured for the third consecutive season, unfortunately the Lillywhites stumbled at the semi final stage again for the third season running. The club having had to move out of the ground they have played at for so long because of the lease on the ground had expired had to move just down the road for season 2013/14 to ground share with tenants Histon.
The club hopefully will achieve their dream of a brand new stadium in the near future. DIRECTIONS The Glass World Stadium is situated to the east of the B1049, just over half a mile north of Junction 32 of the A14, and as such is easily accessed from all directions.From the East: take the A14 and exit at Junction 32 turning right onto the B1049. From the West: take the A428 which becomes the A14 (at Junction 31) and exit at Junction 32 turning left onto the B1049. From the South: take the M11 and leave at Junction 14 to take the A14 Eastbound (Newmarket, Ipswich) leave the A14 at Junction 32 turning left onto the B104
PAGE 36 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
GROUND SHARE WITH HISTON FC Glass World Stadium, Bridge Road, Impington, Cambridge, CB24 9PH Wheelchair Access: Yes Car Parking: Yes Matchday Magazine: ÂŁ2 Capacity: 4,300 (1,700 seated) Round Trip from (PE19 6SL): 34 Miles
FROM THE OTHER SIDE OF THE FENCE
BRIAN CLOUGH Some great stories about the people who knew and worked under the great man SHANKS PONY Forest legend GARY BIRTLES
Liverpool, the defending Champions, were set to crash out of Europe as the next two European cups would be destined to Nottingham Forest. By the time of Shanks unexplained appearance on the Forest team coach, the damage had been done we were 2-0 up from the first leg. Drawing Liverpool in the first round just didn’t seem right. Partly because it wasn’t much of a trip
what the opponents might do. He’d just say, go out and play.
and partly because they were such a fantastic team and we thought we were bound to lose to them. We had never played in the European Cup before and it looked like we might be going out without even leaving the country.
What was about to happen was a little short of incredible? After I scored the first goal at the city ground, Phil Thompson the Liverpool defender assured me that a single goal would not be enough to take to Anfield, so when Colin Barrett got us a second, cocky young thing that I was, I went up to Thommo and said “will two be enough then” he was speechless. I shouldn’t have done that to a respected England international but I was just on a high on what was happening. There was though still a second leg to be played at the fortress that is Anfield.
I always thought the gaffer was indestructible and when I heard that he had died I was in bits. Later it had dawned on me that I would never know the answer to something that had puzzled me for years. What was the great Bill Shankley doing on the Forest team bus that night we humbled Liverpool in Europe. One of the stand out things I remember about one of the greatest nights in European Football is the legendary former Liverpool Boss hitched a lift from our team hotel to Anfield for the second leg of that first round match. Don’t ask me how that came about. It didn’t seem normal but not much did under Brian Clough. I’m guessing Shankley must have come to our hotel and we took him to the game. I never asked why. You just didn’t. And what was about to happen was certainly not normal.
Deep down we were a bit scared but the gaffer told us we didn’t need to worry about the opposition. He said we were better than them and we had nothing to be afraid of as long as we played our own game. He always said things like that did the gaffer, he wasn’t one for filling our heads with tactics or warning you about
PAGE 38 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
HE SENT US OUT AS A TEAM TO WALK IN FRONT OF THE KOP AN HOUR BEFORE KICK OFF IN OUR BLUE BLAZERS AND GREY FLANNELS. HE JUST TOLD US TO GO OUT THERE AND STROLL IN THE GOALMOUTH IN FRONT OF THE SEETHING MASS OF LIVERPOOL FANS.
Masterstrokes were the stock of Brian Cloughs trade. He was a psychologist of the highest order and never missed the opportunity to drop an ace on the table if he felt there was an opportunity.
mass of Liverpool fans. A vast array of stuff was thrown at us and I remember dodging a bunch of grapes, Apples, Oranges and all manner of food. But for Brian Clough it was simple.
He sent us out as a team to walk in front of the Kop an hour before kick off in our Blue Blazers and grey flannels. He just told us to go out there and stroll in the goalmouth in front of the seething
He sent us out there to make it clear to the Liverpool fans that we knew all about their fabled powers, but we did not give a s**t. The sight of us strolling around laughing and joking just riled them even more.
there’s a two-year gap in the dates. They go from 77 and 78 to 81 and I always think, that’s us that is that gap – we did it.
We held them to a 0-0 draw, and went on to win the trophy and then retain it the following season. Unbelievable isn’t it? It’s like Barnsley doing it. Every time I watch Liverpool now, I look for the flags on the Kop, because WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/STNEOTSTOWNFC / PAGE 39
INTRODUCING
ADAM TANN Adam Tann was signed from Leiston FC for an undisclosed transfer fee on an 18 month playing contract. Adam is a very experienced centre half who can also play central midfield, or right back. A former professional with Cambridge United, Leyton Orient and Notts
PAGE 40 /
County where he made over 200 appearances, he also played for Chelmsford City he then joined leiston. Dave Batch our first team manager stated, “Adam is very
ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
experienced and still hungry, he also lives local to the club and I’m certain that he will contribute to making us stronger”. Adam has deservedly just been made club Captain.
WWW.STNEOTSTOWNFC.CO.UK / PAGE 41
DREW WORKING HARD AS EVER
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/STNEOTSTOWNFC / PAGE 43
MD’S VIEWS
THIS SIGNAL TAKES THE PISTE! I’m not the best skier in the world, in fact I’m not even the best skier in my house, that particular title goes to my wife which all things considered is, dare I say, OK. OK in the sense that it’s nice to be second on any form of list that involves my wife, 3 kids, the dog and the Hoover. On all lists that have at least some significance I fall to a distant 7th place well behind the aforementioned wife, kids, dog and yes even the Hoover. Back to the skiing. As your hopefully enjoying another exciting game of football I will be somewhere up a mountain trying to get a signal on my mobile phone. I’ve already had to explain to the wife that height is not a guarantee of a good signal and that the more I wave the phone around, stand up, move around and
generally look irritated does in fact increase the chance of me picking up 4G. “you’ll find out the score when you get home” or “if you can’t get a signal just text someone” are just two little beauties that often lead to a catastrophic break down in the relationship with my wife for the rest of that particular day.
I find it a sad indictment of the world that we live in today where I am looked upon as some sort of low life weirdo just because I’ve asked a complete stranger whether they have 4G and if they have can they go onto the St Neots Town twitter page to find out the score. My wife thinks I’m using this as a chat up line however I have pointed out that: A. Some of those I ask are not the best looking (yes I know that’s shallow beyond belief but I was backed into a corner). or B. I wouldn’t need to ask if she’d let me purchase a satellite phone. I guess the point I’m trying to make is that things are getting rather exciting and that we really do have a wonderful opportunity to see a small part of the clubs ambitions come to fruition. It’s not the end of the world if we miss out this season because we are building and something’s take time. I’d like to welcome Cirencester to Rowley Park and I hope you enjoy your day with us. Right I need to pack......Ski boots (check), Ski Suit (check) Ski Gloves (Check) Mobile phone (Check), Large radio dish (Check) mobile telecommunication receiving unit (Check) Mini satellite (check) The wife’s sense of humour (Check) Hoover (check) O three bloody points (check) LEE
PAGE 44 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
WWW.STNEOTSTOWNFC.CO.UK / PAGE 45
STEWS VIEWS
THE 10 CLOSEST FOOTBALL LEAGUE FINISHES With our own league pretty much either Poole Town FC or Weymouth Town FC’s to win, the next in the series of “Football Top 10’s” takes a look at nail biting end of the season finishes With this season’s Premier League title race about to ravage as many fingernails as bookmakers’ biros, we could be looking at one of the most open and exciting final run-ins ever witnessed. Interesting fact: if the Premier League title race can’t be decided on points, it goes to goal difference, then goals scored. If there’s still no winner, there’s a play off. Alas, that’s incredibly unlikely. In fact, the last time one of Europe’s big five leagues
(England, France, Spain, Italy and Germany) had to be decided by a tiebreaker was in the Series A back in 1963-64. However, the tie-breaker in Italy, in those days, was used as the way to separate sides who finished on equal points. Goal difference was ignored. So, essentially, it’s never happened. Prior to 1976, goal difference wasn’t used to separate teams that finished on the same points, but rather goal average, calculated by taking the
number of goals scored and dividing it by the number of goals conceded. Bright sparks spotted that this actually encouraged scoring less goals so goal difference was created, which favoured sides that score more. You’ll find both methods in the following list. Crikey, that was a very long-winded intro into our top 10 closest English top flight finishes. Hopefully we’ve all learned something...
My own personal favourite was number two as I happened to be at Anfield to witness it! Yours Aye Craig.
PAGE 46 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
02
1988-89 Congratulations: Arsenal Commiserations: Liverpool Beaten by: Goals Scored The thrilling climax to a season overshadowed by the tragic loss of life at Hillsborough. Arsenal won their first league title for 18 years, in dramatic fashion, as they beat defending champs Liverpool 2-0 at Anfield to clinch the title on goal difference. Liverpool had won the FA Cup six days earlier and for the second season running missed out on a unique second double. Arsenal won the title with a goal scored in the last minute of the last game of the season.
01
2011-12 Congratulations: Man City Commiserations: Man United Beaten by: Goal Difference
Doubtless you won’t need reminding, but it would look very odd if we left this top spot blank. Going into the final day City were top of the league, ahead of United on goal difference. However, a Wayne Rooney goal at Sunderland gave United the advantage. A 39th minute goal from Pablo Zabaleta put City back on top at half time. In a stunning second half that anyone that witnessed will never forget, Djibril Cissé equalised for QPR. Shortly after all hell broke loose when Joey Barton was sent off for elbowing Carlos Tévez; on his way off the pitch, he kicked Sergio Agüero, attempted to headbutt Vincent Kompany and squared up to Mario Balotelli. Despite the numerical advantage, City went behind after Jamie Mackie gave QPR the lead on 66 minutes. As time dwindled it looked like United would win the title with their victory over Sunderland. Queue utter madness. Edin Džeko equalised for City in the 92nd minute. United players waited on the field at Sunderland for their trophy
presentation, but City’s Sergio Agüero had different ideas, scoring the game winner in the 94th minute
to clinch the title on goal difference. Literally, jaw-dropping stuff. Relive it, it never ceases to amaze...
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/STNEOTSTOWNFC / PAGE 47
Scorelines.. A brief round up of the recent results from the teams that matter Midweek Premier Division (w/c 23rd February)
Cambridge City, who were two goals behind when the original fixture was abandoned following a power cut, took the lead after twenty minutes at Bideford but the home side struck two minutes into the second half to secure a 1- 1 draw. On Wednesday, Corby Town scored twice before the interval and moved above Weymouth into second place with a 2-0 home win over Biggleswade Town.
Weekend Premier Division (28th February)
With none of the top four taking maximum points, Poole Town increased their lead despite holding out for a 0-0 draw at home by St Neots Town but Weymouth, who took the lead in the second minute and again just before the half hour, were reduced to ten men before the interval and leaked five goals in the second half to crash to a 7-2 defeat at Chesham United while Corby Town, ahead after four minutes but trailing two behind on the hour, slipped to a 3-2 defeat at Biggleswade Town and Truro City, who conceded a goal in each half, lost 2-0 at Cirencester Town to slip down to fifth and be replaced by Hungerford Town who completed a 2-0 home win over
Bideford. Redditch United, a goal up at the interval, scored three times in the second half to complete a comfortable 4- 0 home victory over Slough Town while Hitchin Town took the lead in the seventh minute with the aid of an own goal and, after conceding an equaliser before the break, went on to win 3-2 at Chippenham Town and Paulton Rovers, two ahead at the interval, scored in the final minute to secure a 3-2 win at bottom of the table Burnham, who had drawn level just after the hour mark. Dunstable Town, a goal behind after just five minutes and two down at the break, crashed to a 4-0 home defeat by Frome Town but Dorchester Town, leading from an own goal just after the half hour, scored with ten minutes left to complete a 2-0 home win over Histon while Third from bottom Arlesey Town, two goals down after twenty five minutes, scored six minutes after the break and again four minutes from time to snatch a 2-2 home draw with second from last Banbury United.
Midweek Division 1 Central (w/c 23rd February)
Leaders Kettering Town went in front from the spot midway through the first half and increased their lead with two further penalties in six second
PAGE 48 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
half minutes before completing a 4-0 victory at bottom of the table North Greenford United with a goal eleven minutes from time while second placed Bedworth United struck sixteen minutes from time to secure a 1-0 win at Bedford Town. Fifth in the table Hanwell Town conceded a goal twelve minutes from time to fall to a surprise 1-0 home defeat by fourth from bottom Leighton Town but Royston Town, two down at the interval, moved up into sixth place when they snatched a 2-2 home draw with goals in the fourth and eighth minutes of time added on at the end of the game. Barton Rovers’ home game against St Ives Town fell victim to a waterlogged pitch.
Weekend Division 1 Central (28th February)
Leaders Kettering Town scored three minutes before the interval to secure a 1- 0 victory at Godalming Town and second placed Bedworth United scored a goal in each half to win 2-0 at third from bottom Leighton Town while Rugby Town scored just before the break and doubled their lead just after the hour to set up a 2-1 home success against Chalfont St Peter but Aylesbury, who took a fifth minute lead and conceded an equaliser five minutes later, drew 1-1 at St Ives Town.
CRACKERS IS BACK!
POOLE TOWN 0 ST NEOTS TOWN 0 28:02:2015 / Southern Premier Division / Att 382 / Referee: Jon Creswick (Woking)
The importance of this match to both sides was blindingly obvious. Poole needed to avenge a defeat earlier this season at the Cozy Stadium and maintain their push for the championship and automatic promotion whilst St Neots on the fringe of a very competitive play off zone could ill afford to lose ground. The outcome was probably acceptable to both in a match in which the sides effectively cancelled out the other although St Neots second half domination had suggested that they could go on to claim all three points. ‘I though we could have stolen a winning goal in the last ten minutes from our set pieces’ said Manager David Batch but overall he must have been very pleased with his side’s performance. The versatile Jack Wilkinson was ruled out of the starting line up through illness with Josh Bickerstaff coming in and there was also a return for Ryan Frater in defence after an injury absence of seven matches. Poole had an incredible home record having conceded just five goals in sixteen matches this season and this underlines the performance of the St Neots defence that recorded its fifth clean sheet in its last seven league outings. Poole had the better start to the game under leaden skies. Jamie Whisken up for a set piece failed to capitalise on their first chance
after seven minutes and then Keith Emmerson shot wide after good work by Marvin Brooks. The match was competitive and Tom Ward looked unlucky to be booked for a tackle that was no worse that half a dozen others. After 17 minutes Paul Bastock threw himself across his goal to push away a curling shot from Emmerson whilst at the other end Bruce Wilson fired just the
wrong side of a post. Tactically Poole were utilising the space on their very wide pitch to maximum effect and from a Steve Devlin free kick Michael Walker headed the ball into the net but his effort was rightly ruled out because he had pushed a St Neots defender in the back in order to win the ball. Wilson became the second St Neots player to be cautioned for what looked a perfectly good challenge and St Neots best first half effort came from a flying header by Lee Clarke after a long Matt Mitchel-King long throw. The half ended with Bastock needing two attempts to
retrieve an Emmerson volley after Poole’s best first half move. If the home side had shaded the first half it was all change upon the restart. For twenty minutes St Neots ruthlessly pinned their hosts back in their own half dominating possession with early shots from Matt Spring and Mitchel King being blocked by desperate but effective defending. From a Ward cross Wilson saw a header plucked from under the cross bar and then Lewis Hilliard and Clarke combined well to set up Spring but he was unable to get any power into his shot that was easily saved. Poole needing to do something to break out sent on two substitutes and became more adventurous going forward but created little whilst from a Spring corner Adam Tann headed narrowly over the bar. Another promising move ended with Wilson being caught inches offside and on the break Marvin Brooke sent Poole’s only serious second half attempt high over the bar. Several late St Neots corners offered hope of a late winner but the closest they came was a Tann header that was just too high. The next two home matches against fellow play off hopefuls now carry great significance for St Neots. John Walker
Poole Town
St Neots Town
Hutchings, Tallak, Lindsay, Walker, Whisken, Petefer, Burbridge, Devlin, Quigley, Brooks, Emmerson. Subs: Gillespie (for Quigley 63), Roberts (for Emmerson 63), Close (for Brooks 81), Davis and Spetch. Cards: None Goals: None
Bastock, Tann, Bickerstaff, Mitchel-King, Frater, Ward, Hilliard, Spring, Clarke, Roberts, Wilson. Subs: Longden (for Hilliard 68), Cracknell (for Spring 82), Hobbs (for Clarke 90 + 4), and Marango. Cards: Ward (Y – 15), Wilson (Y – 26) Goals: None
PAGE 50 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
WWW.STNEOTSTOWNFC.CO.UK / PAGE 51
ES!
COMMENTATORS FOOTBALL GAFF
You can always rely on the good old football commentator to come out with a classic during the big match! Here are a few howlers! Robbie Keane “Top players don’t come much topper than Gerrard and Carragher”
Ray Wilkins “Arsene took too long to replace those players, and they were irreplaceable”
John Hartson “His legs have gone and it’s time to hang them up”
“You don’t want to bite your nose off to spite your face” Paul Merson
Alan Smith
Bradley Johnson
“Suarez’s hunger for the game seems unquenchable”
“I call myself a 100 per center because every week I give 110 per cent”
Glenn Hoddle “United will break caution to the wind”
Ian Danter
“How many people is 1.2billion?”
David Moyes
“It looked as though he’d damaged ligaments, or had ligament damage”
Paul Merson
“Blackpool always fly by the skin of their pants”
Roy Keane
“Over a season, the decisions spread out”
Jamie Redknapp
Martin Tyler
“Fabregas misses out but Samir Nasri will be the benefactor”
“When you’re comfortable, and you think you’re comfortable, it’s uncomfortable”
Ian Abrahams
“This is a rollercoaster of a feast”
Micky Quinn
Alan Mcinally
“Barcelona play football to die of”
“Alan Pardew has had to juggle his pack”
Steve Bruce
Chris Waddle
“One lack of naivety from us and we lost the match”
“It definitely would probably have been a penalty”
PAGE 52 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
Alan Brazil “He’ll probably say his quote was lost in transfusion
Micky Mellon “The boys’ performance today was so good I’ve run out of expletives to describe it”
21-Mar
04-Apr
6 -- 1
25-Apr
1 -- 5
14-Mar
3 -- 0
06-Apr
0 -- 4
1 -- 1
21-Mar
3 -- 0
28-Mar
3 -- 2
3 -- 1
Bideford
Biggleswade Town
Burnham
Cambridge City
Chesham United
Chippenham Town
Cirencester Town
Corby Town
Dorchester Town
3 -- 0
2 -- 0
06-Apr
2 -- 1
2 -- 1
4 -- 1
07-Mar
2 -- 0
tba
6 -- 2
3 -- 1
2 -- 0
1 -- 0
3 -- 0
18-Apr
3 -- 0
Histon
Hitchin Town
Hungerford Town
Paulton Rovers
Poole Town
Redditch United
Slough Town
St Neots Town
Truro City
Weymouth
2 -- 3
Frome Town
3 -- 2
tba
0 -- 0
4 -- 0
4 -- 2
5 -- 1
2 -- 3
Dunstable Town
3 -- 1
3 -- 0
tba
2 -- 2
0 -- 2
Banbury United
Arlesey Town
2 -- 2
Banbury United
Arlesey Town
Bideford
2 -- 1
5 -- 0
28-Mar
4 -- 1
7 -- 2
21-Mar
06-Apr
2 -- 0
3 -- 2
tba
0 -- 2
1 -- 1
3 -- 3
tba
6 -- 2
25-Apr
4 -- 2
18-Apr
5 -- 1
3 -- 0
2 -- 3
0 -- 1
Biggleswade Town
3 -- 2
07-Mar
2 -- 1
1 -- 1
18-Apr
1 -- 0
3 -- 2
28-Mar
14-Mar
3 -- 0
1 -- 2
1 -- 0
0 -- 1
2 -- 0
tba
1 -- 1
3 -- 2
1 -- 1
1 -- 1
11-Apr
2 -- 2
2 -- 1
Burnham
28-Mar
2 -- 1
3 -- 1
2 -- 2
0 -- 0
1 -- 0
3 -- 0
1 -- 0
18-Apr
2 -- 1
1 -- 2
4 -- 2
1 -- 0
07-Mar
25-Apr
14-Mar
06-Apr
tba
1 -- 0
4 -- 2
0 -- 2
2 -- 1
Cambridge City 1 -- 0
1 -- 0
0 -- 1
07-Mar
2 -- 4
28-Mar
1 -- 1
2 -- 0
06-Apr
1 -- 1
2 -- 1
25-Apr
2 -- 2
3 -- 1
4 -- 0
11-Apr
4 -- 4
1 -- 2
tba
1 -- 1
2 -- 0
0 -- 2
Chesham United 2 -- 1
0 -- 3
2 -- 3
0 -- 3
2 -- 2
3 -- 0
07-Mar
11-Apr
4 -- 1
tba
1 -- 1
04-Apr
0 -- 0
1 -- 1
2 -- 2
1 -- 1
1 -- 0
0 -- 2
1 -- 3
2 -- 1
1 -- 1
0 -- 3
Chippenham Town 0 -- 1
2 -- 0
18-Apr
2 -- 2
2 -- 1
3 -- 1
2 -- 1
0 -- 0
1 -- 1
1 -- 3
06-Apr
5 -- 1
0 -- 1
2 -- 1
1 -- 1
28-Mar
1 -- 1
tba
0 -- 2
5 -- 0
07-Mar
0 -- 0
Cirencester Town 2 -- 0
1 -- 4
07-Mar
1 -- 2
tba
2 -- 1
2 -- 1
1 -- 1
0 -- 0
11-Apr
14-Mar
0 -- 3
0 -- 1
2 -- 1
2 -- 1
0 -- 3
1 -- 3
0 --1
04-Apr
0 -- 2
0 -- 5
1 -- 2
Corby Town tba 18-Apr
2 -- 0
2 -- 1
6 -- 5
2 -- 1
tba 2 -- 4
3 -- 0
0 -- 0
18-Apr
0 -- 2
07-Mar
1 -- 0
1 -- 3
3 -- 5
28-Mar
6 -- 1
2 -- 1
3 -- 2
04-Apr
1 -- 5
4 -- 1
1 -- 0
2 -- 1
1 -- 0
Dorchester Town
21-Mar
25-Apr
1 -- 0
3 -- 0
tba
06-Apr
1 -- 2
1 -- 2
2 -- 1
0 -- 0
0 -- 2
0 -- 1
2 -- 2
0 -- 3
3 -- 2
04-Apr
0 -- 5
1 -- 2
Dunstable Town 07-Mar
28-Mar
06-Apr
0 -- 3
2 -- 1
1 -- 0
2 -- 2
0 -- 0
3 -- 2
1 -- 2
0 -- 1
1 -- 2
2 -- 2
1 -- 1
1 -- 0
tba
1 -- 2
2 -- 0
0 -- 2
1 -- 2
2 -- 1
0 -- 2
Frome Town 4 -- 2
tba
3 -- 1
18-Apr
2 -- 0
7 -- 0
tba
1 -- 1
tba
1 -- 2
0 -- 4
21-Mar
3 -- 0
3 -- 1
1 -- 0
3 -- 0
tba
3 -- 1
1 -- 2
4 -- 0
1 -- 1
2 -- 2
Histon 3 -- 0
7 -- 2
4 -- 0
1 -- 1
2 -- 0
2 -- 0
04-Apr
1 -- 0
tba
4 -- 2
1 -- 3
2 -- 0
1 -- 0
2 -- 0
1 -- 0
2 -- 1
6 -- 0
21-Mar
1 -- 1
14-Mar
18-Apr
2 -- 1
Hitchin Town 2 -- 2
3 -- 0
6 -- 2
2 -- 1
tba
11-Apr
3 -- 0
2 -- 1
1 -- 1
04-Apr
21-Mar
2 -- 1
2 -- 0
2 -- 3
2 -- 3
0 -- 1
2 -- 4
0 -- 0
3 -- 7
2 -- 1
0 -- 3
0 -- 2
Hungerford Town 3 -- 1
2 -- 1
14-Mar
1 -- 2
0 -- 2
1 -- 0
2 -- 3
0 -- 2
2 -- 1
07-Mar
2 -- 6
1 -- 0
1 -- 1
18-Apr
0 -- 1
1 -- 2
2 -- 1
2 -- 2
1 -- 1
1 -- 0
1 -- 2
04-Apr
Paulton Rovers 2 -- 4
2 -- 0
1 -- 1
4 -- 2
0 -- 2
1 -- 0
25-Apr
1 -- 0
tba
2 -- 0
0 -- 2
3 -- 4
4 -- 1
0 -- 1
1 -- 1
2 -- 2
14-Mar
2 -- 3
1 -- 0
3 -- 0
28-Mar
11-Apr
Poole Town tba
2 -- 2
3 -- 2
0 -- 4
0 -- 1
4 -- 5
0 -- 0
1 -- 0
1 -- 1
0 -- 1
14-Mar
06-Apr
1 -- 0
tba
04-Apr
18-Apr
0 -- 2
1 -- 3
tba
0 -- 6
0 -- 1
tba
Redditch United 1 -- 1
3 -- 2
0 -- 3
1 -- 7
0 -- 1
1 -- 0
1 -- 1
4 -- 0
28-Mar
0 -- 4
2 -- 1
14-Mar
0 -- 0
3 -- 2
1 -- 2
0 -- 1
0 -- 2
11-Apr
2 -- 5
07-Mar
0 -- 0
25-Apr
Slough Town 3 -- 2
1 -- 2
0 -- 3
4 -- 0
2 -- 1
2 -- 2
06-Apr
28-Mar
0 -- 0
1 -- 1
11-Apr
25-Apr
1 -- 2
21-Mar
2 -- 0
0 -- 0
3 -- 3
0 -- 2
3 -- 3
2 -- 0
tba
1 -- 0
St Neots Town 1 -- 0
2 -- 3
04-Apr
2 -- 0
0 -- 0
0 -- 0
0 -- 0
3 -- 4
0 -- 0
25-Apr
1 -- 3
11-Apr
1 -- 3
1 -- 1
0 -- 1
3 -- 3
21-Mar
0 -- 1
2 -- 2
1 -- 1
1 -- 1
1 -- 3
Truro City
1 -- 1
tba
21-Mar
2 -- 0
0 -- 3
3 -- 0
tba
1 -- 3
0 -- 3
5 -- 1
0 -- 3
2 -- 3
7 -- 2
0 -- 1
1 -- 2
25-Apr
tba
11-Apr
14-Mar
1 -- 0
0 -- 2
06-Apr
2 -- 0
14-Mar 3 -- 0
04-Apr
3 -- 0
1 -- 2
2 -- 0
1 -- 2
25-Apr
1 -- 0
1 -- 2
1 -- 2
1 -- 0
2 -- 0
21-Mar
3 -- 0
1 -- 1
2 -- 2
3 -- 2
1 -- 3
1 -- 2
2 -- 3
Weymouth
ATTENTIONS last week turned to the announcement of the mammoth new Premier League TV deal with rights being ‘snapped up’ by Sky, BT Sport and the BBC. we can all agree that the monster has got out of hand. Football will never be the same again, at the top level of the game at least. Yes, we are seeing world class players grace our pitches, but at what expense (apart from the £5bn of course)? Will the feeble national team weaken even further?
Those at football’s top table will end up using £50 notes for toilet paper the way things are going, with a whopping £5.1 billion forked out to show top-flight games from 2016-19. One Premier League match will cost you the same as over 500 Vanarama Conference clashes – just frightening figures. Of course they throw the odd crumb down to those of us further down the food chain but it feels like grass-roots football is constantly playing the Oliver role and asking “please sir, can we have some more?” The problem is that Premier League clubs, and the league itself, do not feel a duty of care. The rich get richer and the poor, well, continue to struggle. Even former Non-League stars like Dwight Gayle, Charlie Austin and Jamie Vardy lighting up the top of the game fails to remind them where football starts for every child. I think
Richard Scudamore and the Premier League bigwigs can talk as much as they like about how money has found its way down to grass-roots. Some, of course, has. But it’s not nearly enough. Facilities, on the whole, are getting worse and that should be a huge concern for all. If we want our children to aspire to be the next Wayne Rooney instead of being intent on watching him on TV, we need to have the right facilities to help these budding footballers into the game. I also think the government can, and should, do their bit too. It’s all too easy for them to point the finger at Scudamore and co. But drastic cuts are also adding to the decline. Premier League clubs are so far removed from their communities and that’s where NonLeague clubs fill the void. I hope this latest deal leads to more fans seeking an alternative. Supporters helped make the top-flight what it is and now they’re being ignored – again. Ticket prices are astronomical and a drop across the board can only be a good thing – it’s about time fans tried to wrestle some of the power
PAGE 54 / ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
back. Non-League has long been admired because of its persistence and charm despite the lack of cash. We all know how special our grassroots game is and we don’t want it spoilt. But some of that fortune must be re-invested. How about an increase in prize money, especially for the FA Vase? Step 5 and 6 clubs don’t make much from the fantastic competition because of the amount of travel involved and that’s not right. The very bottom of our Pyramid also needs all the help it can get when it comes to facilities. This country has always prided itself on its welfare system in which we aid the needy and top-flight football now needs to do its bit for the good of everybody involved. The Non-League game is, and will continue to be, special and we don’t need a bumper new TV deal to remind us of that. It would be just nice to get some help from the rich lot up the road. Steven Coney Follow us on twitter: @NonLeguePaper @SteveConey_NLP
Opposition in CAPS denotes home fixture. Player name in BOLD CAPS denotes goal scorer.
Date
ATT
COMP
R
Pos
2
3
4
Sat 09 Aug
Opposition Hereford United
568
SLP
2-0
7
Abbey
Spence
Lee
Ford
F
Tue 12 Aug
Chesham United
331
SLP
3-3
5
Abbey
Spence
LEE
Spring
F
Sat 16 Aug
WEYMOUTH
312
SLP
2-0
2
Abbey
Powell
LEE
Bickerstaff
F
Tue 19 Aug
REDDITCH UNITED
310
SLP
0-3
9
Abbey
Powell
Lee
Bickerstaff
Sat 23 Aug
Truro City
503
SLP
3-2
8
Abbey
Spence
LEE
Bickerstaff
Mon 25 Aug
Corby Town
518
SLP
3-1
6
Abbey
Spence
Lee
Bickerstaff
Sat 30 Aug
PAULTON ROVERS
298
SLP
1-1
7
Abbey
Spence
Lee
Bickerstaff
Sat 06 Sep
Biggleswade Town
301
SLP
2-2
6
Abbey
Spence
Wilson
Bickerstaff
Tue 09 Sep
HISTON
401
SLP
4-0
4
Abbey
Spence
Lee
Farrell
Sat 13 Sep
DEREHAM TOWN
312
FAC
1-1
-
Abbey
Spence
Lee
Spring
Sat 20 Sep
Banbury United
281
SLP
1-1
5
Greygoose
Spence
Lee
Farrell
Tue 30 Sep
Arlesey Town
217
SLP
3-1
2
Greygoose
Spence
Bickerstaff
Hilliard
Sat 04 Oct
BURNHAM
282
SLP
3-1
3
Greygoose
York
Lee
Wilson
Mon 06 Oct
Hitchin Town
291
SLP
4-3
2
Greygoose
York
Lee
Wilson
Sat 11 Oct
POOLE TOWN
619
SLP
3-2
2
Bastock
York
Bickerstaff
Wilson
Sat 18 Oct
Cirencester Town
141
SLP
1-1
2
Bastock
York
Bickerstaff
Thorne
Tue 21 Oct
CHESHAM UNITED
233
SLP
2-3
2
Bastock
YORK
Bickerstaff
Thorne
Sat 25 Oct
HEREFORD UNITED
329
SLP
1-0
2
Bastock
York
Bickerstaff
Wilson
Mon 27 Oct
Redditch United
141
SLP
0-2
3
Bastock
York
Lee
Cracknell
Sat 01 Nov
ILKESTON TOWN
330
FAT
2-1
-
Bastock
York
Bickerstaff
Ford
Sat 08 Nov
TRURO CITY
299
SLP
0-2
3
Bastock
York
Bickerstaff
Ford
Sat 15 Nov
DARLINGTON 1883
715
FAT
3-1
-
Bastock
Deeney
York
Ford
Tue 18 Nov
CAMBRIDGE CITY
322
SLP
0-1
3
Bastock
Deeney
York
Ford
Sat 22 Nov
Bideford
199
SLP
1-1
4
Bastock
Deeney
Adjei
Ford
Sat 29 Nov
AFC SUDBURY
431
FAT
1-1
-
Bastock
York
Adjei
Ford
Tue 02 Dec
AFC Sudbury
229
FAT (R)
0-1
-
Bastock
York
Adjei
Ford
Sat 06 Dec
DORCHESTER TOWN
292
SLP
6-5
4
Bastock
Deeney
York
Hutton
Tue 09 Dec
SLOUGH TOWN
299
SLP
0-3
5
Bastock
Deeney
Wilson
Hutton
Sat 13 Dec
Chippenham Town
285
SLP
1-0
4
Bastock
York
Ford
Wilson
Sat 20 Dec
FROME TOWN
307
SLP
3-1
5
Bastock
YORK
Davis
Cracknell
Fri 26 Dec
CORBY TOWN
462
SLP
2-4
8
Bastock
York
Ford
Cracknell
Thu 01 Jan
Dunstable Town
205
SLP
3-1
7
Bastock
York
Plowright
Ford
Sat 10 Jan
Paulton Rovers
167
SLP
0-0
8
Bastock
York
Wilkinson
Tann
Sat 17 Jan
BIGGLESWADE TOWN
491
SLP
2-1
8
Bastock
York
Davis
Tann
Tue 20 Jan
Weymouth
409
SLP
0-1
8
Bastock
York
Plowright
Tann
Sat 24 Jan
Histon
386
SLP
0-0
9
Bastock
York
Bickerstaff
Hutton
Sat 31 Jan
BANBURY UNITED
319
SLP
2-1
8
Bastock
York
Bickerstaff
Mitchel-King
Sat 07 Feb
ARLESEY TOWN
372
SLP
3-0
7
Bastock
Tann
Wilkinson
CLARKE
MITC
Tue 10 Feb
Hungerford Town
100
SLP
0-0
7
Bastock
Tann
Wilkinson
Clarke
Mi
Sat 14 Feb
Burnham
116
SLP
1-0
7
Bastock
Tann
Wilkinson
Clarke
Mi
Sat 21 Feb
HITCHIN TOWN
547
SLP
6-2
6
Bastock
Tann
Wilkinson
Wilson
Mi
Sat 28 Feb
Poole Town
387
SLP
0-0
6
Bastock
Tann
Bickerstaff
Mitchel-King
Sat 07 Mar
CIRENCESTER TOWN
SLP
Sat 14 Mar
HUNGERFORD TOWN
SLP
Sat 21 Mar
Cambridge City
SLP
Sat 28 Mar
BIDEFORD
SLP
Sat 04 Apr
Slough Town
SLP
Mon 06 Apr
DUNSTABLE TOWN
SLP
Sat 11 Apr
Dorchester Town
SLP
Sat 18 Apr
CHIPPENHAM TOWN
SLP
Sat 25 Apr
Frome Town
SLP
PAGE 56 /
ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
F
T
B
F
Player name in these colours denotes substitute
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
14
Frater (R)
Hoyte
Spring
Davies
Dillon
Hilliard
Powell
NOLAN
FRATER (N)
15
Frater (R)
Hoyte
DAVIES
Ford
Nolan
Hilliard
Powell
FRATER (N)
Frater (R)
Hoyte
DAVIES
Spring
Nolan
Ford
Frater (N)
Spence
Hilliard
Frater
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
Nolan
Frater (N)
Ford
Roberts
Ferrari
Frater
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
FRATER (N) 2
Ford
Powell
Roberts
Ferrari
Farrell
Frater
Hoyte
Ford
Spring
Frater (N)
ROBERTS 2
Farrell
FERRARI
Davies
Powell
Frater
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
ROBERTS
Farrell
Ford
Ferrari
Wilson
Powell
Frater
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
FRATER N
ROBERTS
Powell
Deeney
Nolan
Farrell
FRATER
Hoyte
DAVIES
Powell
Nolan
ROBERTS 2
Hilliard
Wilson
Ferrari
Bickerstaff
Frater
Hoyte
Davies
Wilson
NOLAN
Roberts
Hilliard
Ferrari
Farrell
Powell
Frater
Hoyte
DAVIES
Wilson
Nolan
Roberts
Hilliard
Ferrari
Ford
Frater
Hoyte
Davies
THORNE
FRATER N
ROBERTS
Wilson
Ferrari
Spring
Nolan
Frater
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
Frater N
ROBERTS 3
Hilliard
Thorne
Nolan
Peacock
THORNE
Hoyte
Farrell
Spring
FRATER N
ROBERTS
Hilliard
Ford
NOLAN
Ferrari
Frater
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
Frater N
ROBERTS 2
HILLIARD
Ford
Nolan
Thorne
Frater
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
Nolan
Roberts
HILLIARD
Ferrari
Ford
Frater
Hoyte
DAVIES
Spring
Nolan
Roberts
Hilliard
Cracknell
Ford
Frater
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
Nolan
ROBERTS
Hilliard
Frater N
Cracknell
Lee
Bickerstaff
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
Frater N
Roberts
Ford
Farrell
Hilliard
Ferrari
Deeney
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
FRATER N
Roberts
HILLIARD
Ferrari
Deeney
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
Frater N
Roberts
Hilliard
Ferrari
Dillon
Frater
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
Frater N
ROBERTS
HILLIARD 2
Cracknell
Dillon
Frater
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
Dillon
Roberts
Hilliard
Ferrari
Nolan
Frater
Ward
Davies
CRACKNELL
Dillon
Roberts
Hilliard
Mackey
Frater
Ward
Davies
SPRING
Dillon
Roberts
Hilliard
Mackey
Ferrari
Nolan
Frater
Ward
Cracknell
Spring
Mackey
Roberts
Ferrari
Hoyte
Hilliard
Davies
Ferrari
Hoyte
Ward
Davies
Spring
DILLON
ROBERTS 3
HILLIARD
Wilson
MACKEY
Cracknell
Ward
Hoyte
Davies
Spring
Dillon
Roberts
Hilliard
Mackey
Cracknell
Frater (N)
Deeney
Ward
Cracknell
Spring
Mackey
ROBERTS
Hutton
Plowright
Frater (N)
Hilliard
Frater
Ward
Hilliard
Spring
Mackey
ROBERTS
HUTTON
Davies
Plowright
Frater N Ferrari
Frater
Ward
Hilliard
Frater N
Mackey
ROBERTS 2
Hutton
Davis
Davies
FRATER
Ward
Ferrari
Wilson
FRATER N
ROBERTS
Hutton
Vieira
Davis
Frater
Ward
Hutton
Ford
Frater N
Roberts
Plowright
Adjei
Mackey
Frater
Ward
HILLIARD
Wilkinson
Frater N
Roberts
Adjei
Plowright
Hutton
FORD
Frater
Ward
Hilliard
Wilkinson
Frater N
Roberts
Ford
Adjei
Ferrari
Davis
Tann
Ward
Hilliard
Spring
Mackey
Roberts
Wilkinson
Vieira
Adjei
Ford
Tann
Ward
HILLIARD
Spring
Mackey
ROBERTS
Wilkinson
Vieira
Harty
Ferrari
MITCHEL-KING
Ward
Hilliard
Spring
Ferrari
ROBERTS
Marango
Harty
Vieira
Ford
Mitchel-King
Ward
Hilliard
Spring
Frater (N)
Roberts
Ferrari
Harty
Mitchel-King
Ward
HILLIARD
Spring
Ferrari
Roberts
Frater (N)
Marango
Frater (R)
Harty
Mitchel-King
Ward
HILLIARD
Spring
CLARKE 3
ROBERTS 2
Longden
Harty
Bickerstaff
Vieira
Frater
Ward
Hilliard
Spring
Clarke
Roberts
Wilson
Longden
Cracknell
Hobbs
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/STNEOTSTOWNFC / PAGE 57
SOUTHERN PREMIER DIVISION / 05.03.15
P
W
D
L
GF
GA
+/-
Pts
01
Poole Town
31
22
5
4
62
18
+44
71
02
Corby Town
34
21
6
7
66
36
+30
69
03
Weymouth
34
21
4
9
62
52
+10
67
04
Hungerford Town
36
18
10
8
52
29
+23
64
05
Truro City
35
20
4
11
65
50
+15
64
06
St Neots Town
35
17
10
8
65
49
+16
61
07
Cirencester Town
35
17
9
9
66
39
+27
60
08
Redditch United
34
17
8
9
63
35
+28
59
09
Chesham United
35
14
11
10
66
51
+15
53
10
Hitchin Town
34
15
6
13
60
56
+4
51
11
Paulton Rovers
34
14
8
12
57
52
+5
50
12
Dunstable Town
36
14
5
17
58
63
-5
47
13
Chippenham Town
35
12
10
13
40
44
-4
46
14
Bideford
34
13
5
16
56
73
-17
44
15
Slough Town
33
11
10
12
48
58
-10
43
16
Dorchester Town
35
11
4
20
52
63
-11
37
17
Cambridge City
32
8
11
13
48
52
-4
35
18
Biggleswade Town
33
8
10
15
47
61
-14
34
19
Histon
32
8
7
17
33
55
-22
31
20
Frome Town
34
8
6
20
40
69
-29
30
21
Arlesey Town
34
8
4
22
34
69
-35
28
22
Banbury United
33
5
8
20
36
75
-39
23
23
Burnham (-3)
34
5
7
22
35
62
-27
19
PAGE 58 /
ST NEOTS TOWN F.C. V CIRENCESTER TOWN ISSUE 23
Don’t succumb to just putting up a bookshelf, show your walls some love! Wall Art
Wallpaper
Wall Stickers
www.ilovemywalls.co.uk
Manager: David Batch Assistant Manager: Steve Eastaugh Goalkeeping Coach: Darren Plowman
Manager: Brian Hughes Assistant Manager: Kevin Willetts
Goalkeepers
Glyn Garner
Paul Bastock
Ian Herring
Jamie Greygoose
Ellis Dunton
Defenders
Mark Pritchett
Josh Bickerstaff
Matt Liddiard
Sam Harty
Gethin Jones
Adam Tann
Brad Hooper
Ryan Frater
James Mortimer-Jones
Tom Ward
Nat Jarvis
Jack Wilkinson
Aidan Bennett

Theo Davis
Jacob Davidge
Midfielders
Leigh Henry
Dean Cracknell
Jordan Ricketts
Lee Clarke
Ollie Knight
Ebey Marango Matt Spring Lorenzo Ferrari Lewis Hilliard Mat Mitchel-King Forwards Bruce Wilson Chris Dillon Nathan Frater Matt Nolan Drew Roberts Luis Vieira
Colours Dark Blue Shirts, Shorts & Socks
Colours Red/Black Shirts, Black Shorts, Red Socks
The match line up will be displayed on the electronic scoreboard Referee: Josh Smith Assistants: Sam Harris / TBA Next Home Game: St Neots Town v Hungerford Town Southern League Premier Division / Saturday 14th March / KO 15:00
As a Club we support Grass Roots Football and stand firm against racism within football, visit www.thefa.com for more information on playing your part.