Stevenage FC v Blackpool FC

B RO INTERACTIVE DIGITAL PROGRAMME 2023/24 NO. 16

v BLACKPOOL FC

Saturday, February 03 2024 Kick-Off: 3.00pm MATCH SPONSOR

3

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MANAGER

All photos by Jim Steele unless otherwise stated

STEVE EVANS

SPONSORED BY

We have an opportunity to make a real difference in February

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DIRECTOR

STUART DINSEY W elcome back to The Lamex for the first time since Christmas, with a hugely exciting game against Blackpool as we continue to challenge amongst the big clubs of League One. But as we return, our first thoughts must go to two young Stevenage supporters, Ollie Gatfield and Liam Sharpe.

19-year-old Ollie tragically lost his life in a car accident three weeks ago. His friend, 18-yearold Liam Sharpe, was in the car with Ollie and has been in a critical condition, fighting hard since and making progress.

If you can come into the stadium early, there will be a tribute before KO to Ollie and an expression of wishes for full recovery to Liam from everyone here at the club and in the town. They were with us. We are with them.

We must also note the incredible strength of families and friends, and applaud the care shown by our volunteer Supporter Liaison Officers Carl Rutherford and Alex Potter

through a desperately sad and difficult time.

Onto the game, and welcome to officials, players and fans of a truly iconic club in Blackpool, boasting large support and a history that includes lifting the FA Cup and time in the Premier League.

We will also be welcoming our new arrivals Vadaine Oliver, Nesta Guinness-Walker and Craig MacGillivray into their new home. All featured in the win last weekend, our first ever visit to the DW Stadium, and we know they will do everything they can to drive us on.

Big games keep coming to The Lamex this month, with Reading on Tuesday night, plus Bristol Rovers, Wycombe and Cambridge on the way.

And not forgetting away trips to Port Vale and Derby County. Our away support, like our home support, is up significantly and appreciated by management and players.

Together in our hearts. Enjoy the game.

6

STEVENAGE FC v BLACKPOOL FC

AHEAD OF

and from Vale Park on the day.

Adult: £25 Senior: £20 Young Adult: £17 Young Teen: £12 Under 13: £2

MATCHDAY TIMINGS

Travel with the Stevenage FC Supporters Association for just £25 for members and £30 for non-members. Book travel online here.

THE GAME CLUB SHOP: Midday-3pm TICKET OFFICE: Midday-3:30pm THE BROADHALL SUITE: Open to Home & Away supporters Midday-Kick-Off. CLOSED at Full-Time. Bar Food Available THE 76 LOUNGE: Midday – Kick-Off (Home & Away Supporters). 3.15pm – 80 minutes (North Stand Ticket Holders). Full-Time – 8pm (Home & Away Supporters). Bar Snacks Available TURNSTILES: 1:30pm

FIRST ‘76 COMEDY CLUB EVENT TAKING PLACE THIS MONTH

Held monthly in The 76 Lounge, all guests are invited to enjoy an evening of hilarious comedy with top-class comedians from across the globe.

Tickets are now on sale at borotickets.co.uk for the inaugural ‘76 Comedy Club night on Friday 16th February 2024.

TICKET INFO

MATCH TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE FOR STEVENAGE VS BLACKPOOL All tickets must be purchased before reaching the turnstiles either online or from the North Stand Ticket Office.

TICKETS & TRAVEL: PORT VALE

Kicking off at 3pm on Saturday 11th February, Stevenage make the 284-mile roundtrip to take on Andy Crosby’s Valiants.

Match tickets are available online at www.borotickets.co.uk or from the Club Shop (open Mondays, Tuesdays & Friday 10am-5pm)

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STEVENAGE FC

SOCIAL

@StevenageFC

It’s THAT time again!

@StevenageFC

❤️

BACK LEVEL!

@StevenageFC

🔥

❤

LOUIS THOMPSON!

stevenagefcofficial stevenagefcofficial

🙌

BACK 2 BACK at The Lamex!

stevenagefcofficial

What a month we have ahead of us.

Will you be there?

🤩

🫵

Fewer than 15tickets remain for our first-ever ‘76 Comedy Club at The Lamex Stadium!

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2023/2024 STAT PACK STEVENAGE

BLACKPOOL

MATCH FACTS & TOTAL CARDS Stevenage have lost all three of their league games against Blackpool by an aggregate score of 6-0.

60

Blackpool will travel to Stevenage for just the second time in a league game, after a 2-0 win at the Lamex Stadium in December 2016 under Darren Sarll.

57 4

2

�� �� �� �� �� �� �� �� �� �� 41

47

GOALS

321

387

SHOTS

36

41.1

27

34

EXPECTED GOALS

GOALS CONCEDED

42.4

12.8

53.3

AVERAGE POSSESSION %

12.1

SHOT CONVERSION RATE %

29.8

31.4

12

EXPECTED GOALS AGAINST

6

2

11

CLEAN SHEETS

16

POINTS GAINED AFTER TRAILING

9

POINTS DROPPED AFTER LEADING

GOAL TIMES 0-15 16-30 31-45 46-60 61-75 76-90

SCORED

CONCEDED

8 6 9 3 7 8

4 2 6 6 2 7

0-15 16-30 31-45 46-60 61-75 76-90 _

POWERED BY

SCORED

CONCEDED

3 12 7 9 8 8

4 4 7 5 5 9

9

www.stevenagefc.com

fan

FOCUS W

e were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of 19-year-old supporter Ollie Gatfield on Saturday 13th January.

Ollie was a dedicated member of the East Terrace and followed Stevenage FC home and away. He was involved in a tragic fatal car accident on Saturday 13th January along with his friend and fellow Stevenage fan, Liam Sharpe, who still remains in a serious critical condition in hospital.

The thoughts of everyone connected to Stevenage FC are with Ollie and Liam’s families and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.

As a tribute to Ollie’s life and to Liams recovery, we have asked both Stevenage and Blackpool supporters, players and staff to join in with Ollie and Liams families who are present today and observe a minute’s applause before kick off and also at the 19th minute during the game.

.

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fan

FOCUS

Elliot Hyde

As part of the Level Playing Field “Unite For Access” campaign, we were delighted to surprise one of our young wheelchair supporters to lead the team out today. 12 year old Elliot Hyde regularly attends on matchdays with his Dad, Grandad, Great Uncle and his 16 year old brother Nathan.

Elliot has a rare degenerative genetic disorder but this doesn’t stop him coming to watch his favourite team as often as he can and he is always sat next to his brother Nathan.

Elliot attends the nearby Lonsdale School and Nathan attends Goffs Academy in Cheshunt.

Elliots favourite player is Jamie Reid and Nathans is Harvey White.

Today they will lead the team out, so please give them a huge round of applause as they come out!

The Purple All Stars!

The Purple All Stars were formed in 2011.

They are a group of people with learning disabilities who deliver health promotion and inclusion messages using creative arts.

The Purple All Stars have performed at many events throughout the years across the county and nationally and are delighted to be returning to Stevenage FC for the 3rd time!

Last year they were busy performing at public health events, local festivals and Christmas lights switch on’s. You may have seen them at The Gordon Craig as part of the Stevenage Festival or at a St George’s Park event last summer. They have also participated in national research projects and were invited to perform in London at the Royal College of Nursing.

If you wish to know more about them email kate.harding@hertfordshire.gov.uk Please do follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter

LAMEX FOOD GROUP

proud to Be prIncIpal sponsors of steVenaGe fc Importer and exporter of food products worldwIde

Offices in UK, USA, Ireland, Holland, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Poland, Germany, Canada, Russia, Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong, China.

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K.B.COINS

Dealers in English Coins and Medals. Excellent prices paid for single items, collections or accumulations (especially proof sets)

K.B.COINS PO Box 499 Stevenage, Herts SG1 9JT T: 01438 312661 F: 01438 311990

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Match

2

V

WIGAN

Magennis 5�, Aasgaard 38�

STEVENAGE

3

Reid 15�, Piergianni 66�, Thompson 81�

62%

16 38%

10

POSSESSION

SHOTS

18

3 2

SHOTS ON TARGET

9 TACKLES

ACTION

A late Louis Thompson strike awards Boro the three points in Wigan...

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SPONSORED BY

MATCHDAY MASCOTS

I

Harry Woodhead

Theo Hodges

t’s another big afternoon in store at the Boro and we have five fantastic mascots wishing the boys all the best in their quest for another three points.

First up we have Harry Woodhead, 9, who lives in Yaxley and attends Fourfields School in the town. Harry lists watching Boro with his granddad as his favourite hobby and Jamie Reid is his favourite player.

Next up we say hi to Theo Hodges, 7, who lives in

Ethan Coates

Noah Riley

Stevenage and attends Bedwell School. Theo enjoys playing football and FIFA and Jordan Roberts is his star Boro man.

A big birthday wish now goes to Ethan Coates who is 10 today!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU Ethan!! Living in Walkern, he attends Shephalbury Park Primary and his hobbies include playing for Stevenage Borough Juniors, running, swimming and cricket. Birthday boy Ethan’s favourite player is Jamie Reid.

Issac Riley

We finish with twins Noah and Issac Riley, both are nine years of age and live in Knebworth and attend Knebworth School. Issac is a fan of football, gaming and flags and his top Boro player is Taye Ashby-Hammond. Noah enjoys football, basketball and badminton and Elliot List is his star player for Boro.

We hope all five of our mascots have a great day with us and can cheer Boro on to yet another win.

interactive Boro quiz!

Our interactive quiz is back, five teasers on our opponents today Blackpool - can you get a Boro fifer?

CLICK HERE!

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FROM THE

ARCHIVES

B

oro were paying the price for a poor start to the 2013/14 season, fighting relegation as they could only extract five points from their first 10 league fixtures.

Despite back-to-back victories at the end of October, Stevenage still struggled to find form and they were enduring another barren spell heading into the clash at home to Gillingham.

Boro had won just one of their last nine games, and were going to need some luck to help them on their way to victory against an impressive Gillingham side.

Indeed it was 22 minutes in when Gills Elliott Hewitt offered that bit of luck. Francois Zoko seemed destined to smash home a cutback, but Hewitt ensured he would prevent the goal

Tuesday 4th February 2014

Sky Bet League One

dramatically by using his hands. Hewitt was dismissed and Zoko dispatched the resulting penalty in the calmest manner.

Boro didn’t take long to extend their lead, Luke Freeman embarked on a tremendous solo run that tore apart the visitor’s defence before cutting the ball back from the byline for Darius Charles to tap in.

The Gills were quick to hit back as Bradley Dack played an incredible defence-splitting through ball into the path of Cody McDonald who fired the ball in between Stevenage ‘keeper, Chris Day’s, legs.

However, Luke Freeman’s class shone through again as he helped the hosts restore the twogoal lead, lifting a dangerous cross into the opposition box from a free kick, a cross that was knocked down by Zoko which allowed Darius Charles to smash home, doubling his tally for the evening.

ALFIE NICHOLSON CLICK BELOW TO CHECK OUT THE PROGRAMME

3 STEVENAGE 1 GILLINGHAM

STARTING XI

16 Chris Day 6 Luke Jones 13 Dean Parrett (63’) 8 John Mousinho (74’) 20 Jimmy Smith 29 Peter Hartley 15 Luke Freeman 14 Simon Heslop 11 Lucas Akins 9 Darius Charles 12 Francois Zoko (63’)

SUBSTITUTES

26 Adam Smith 2 Sam Wedgbury 24 Michael Doughty (63’) 34 Roarie Deacon (74’) 28 Joe N’Guissan 25 Bruno Andrade (63’) 10 Jordan Burrow Stats courtesy of Boroguide

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STEVENAGE FC v BLACKPOOL FC

BORO

HISTORY ON THIS DAY: 03 FEBRUARY

January is over and summer is just around the corner(ish); a mood of optimism that was, for a while, reflected in our fortunes on this date. The first four occasions that Boro’ turned out on 3 February delivered four wins – and a tidy ol’ haul of goals too. In more recent times, however, our fortunes haven’t held up too well on this date.

In both 1986 and 1996, Boro’ recorded handsome victories on 03 February. Near neighbours Barton Rovers were put to the sword 37 years ago thanks to some Gittings family magic, before Barry Hayles grabbed a hattrick 10 years later as Runcorn were swept aside at Broadhall Way. It was Bazza’s second hattrick of that season against the Linnets too!

For a period, it wasn’t uncommon for us to be in FA Trophy action at this point of the month.

In 2004, a big-spending Hornchurch side of the Ryman League Premier Division upset the odds to put us out. In 2007, meanwhile, a 1-1 draw at Morecambe ensured our road to Wembley

1986 Stevenage Borough 4-1 Barton Rovers, Vauxhall Opel League Division Two North (M Gittings 2, P Gittings, Nugent) 1993 Chesham United 1-3 Stevenage Borough, Full Members Cup (Trebble 2, Alzapiedi) 1996 Stevenage Borough 4-1 Runcorn, GM Vauxhall Conference (Lynch, Hayles 3) 2001 Stevenage Borough 2-1 Margate, FA Trophy R4 (Illman, Phillips) 2004 Hornchurch 1-0 Stevenage Borough, FA Trophy R4 2007 Morecambe 1-1 Stevenage Borough, FA Trophy R3 (Morison) 2018 Accrington Stanley 3-2 Stevenage, Sky Bet League Two (Godden, McKee) remained on track – albeit with a replay to overcome three days later.

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Our only previous outing on 03 February in the Football League came six years ago now.

Boro’ travelled to Accrington Stanley and took a two-goal lead thanks to Matt Godden and Mark McKee. It all went badly wrong for us, though; the hosts roaring back and claiming the three points. None of that sort of thing today, please!

IT’S BLACKPOOL AGAIN…

Based on our head-to-head record coming into this campaign, our trip to the north-west coast in mid-October rather con-formed to type. On current count, it’s three defeats from three previous encounters for Boro’ – and we’re still yet to score a goal against the Tangerines. Our only previous meeting here at the Lamex was back in December 2016; our guests winning 2-0 – both goals coming in the final quarter of an hour.

ON BOTH SIDES…

To play today?: None Best of the Rest: It was with Blackpool that ex-Boro’ striker DJ Campbell became a Premier League player; helping the Tangerines to pro-motion from the Championship while on loan in 2009-10, before securing a permanent deal shortly after the start of the 2010-1 campaign.

Other notable players to feature for both teams include Peter Hartley, Jamille Matt, Dan Kemp, Lee Howarth, Joe Martin, and Francois Zoko.

BORO’ AT THIS STAGE…

Gameweek 28 To have 49 points on the board after 27 league matches is not too shabby a return for Boro’; our 12th-best haul at this stage of a season to date. Of course, context is key here – and the most useful comparisons are with previous efforts in League One. At this point, we’re four points better off than in 2011-2 (when we made the playoffs), while our fantastic start to the 2012-3 campaign had withered by now – and that side were nine points worse off after 27 fixtures.

And our ill-fated 2013-4 season?

Well, our 25 points from 27 fixtures back then is our fourth lowest return – third if you discount the 1981-2 season on account of that being two points for a win. The only tallies worse than 2013-4 are 2002-3 (24) and 201920 (19). Mind you, we’d improve significantly in the case of the former as a certain Graham Westley had just taken charge. And what is our best at this stage return? 72 points in 1990-91 – still just nine points dropped at this point of that campaign!

Peter Hartley

Jamille Matt

Dan Kemp

Lee Howarth

Joe Martin

Francois Zoko

By Pete Hayman courtesy of

boroguide.co.uk

PLAYER SPONSORS

FIRST TEAM 2023/24

1 Taye Ashby-Hammond

2 Luther James-Wildin

3 Dan Butler

4 Nathan Thompson

5 Carl Piergianni

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KEN FOLLETT

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ALFIE MILES

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LAST

GOALSCORERS

SOCIETY

DAVID GRAY

8 Jake Forster-Caskey

9 Elliott List

10 Nick Freeman

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12 Craig MacGillivray

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16 Harry Anderson

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MIKE HARNIMAN & LAURA TYLER

SPONSOR YOUR FAVOURITE PLAYER...

For sponsorship enquiries email davidhoskins@stevenagefc.com

17 Finley Burns

18 Harvey White

19 Jamie Reid

20 Aaron Pressley

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23 Louis Thompson

24 Ben Thompson

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33 Vadaine Oliver

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2023/2024 STAT PACK ENGLISH FOOTBALL LEAGUE - LEAGUE ONE TOP FIVES GOALS 2 3 4 5

ASSISTS 16

ALFIE MAY

1

10

NATHANIEL MÉNDEZ-LAING

16

100 80 70 100 99 94 89 86 100 74 71 69 68 100 99 98 93 100 100 94 100 91 85 79 77 100 99 97 90 83 100 81 78 73 72

1

JAMIE REID

2

8

AARON COLLINS

16

DEVANTE COLE

3

8

HARRISON BURROWS

15

JORDAN RHODES

4

7

KARAMOKO DEMBÉLÉ

15

COLBY BISHOP

5

7

ETHAN CHISLETT

TOTAL SHOTS 1 2 3 4 5

CHANCES CREATED

101

ALFIE MAY

1

91

62

HARRISON BURROWS

NATHANIEL MÉNDEZ-LAING

SAM HOSKINS

2

61

85

COLBY BISHOP

3

58

CAMERON BRANNAGAN

79

EPHRON MASON-CLARK

4

55

CONOR HOURIHANE

77

JAMIE REID

5

53

EPHRON MASON-CLARK

% OF GOALS INVOLVED IN

SUCCESSFUL PASSES

1

46.4 ETHAN CHISLETT 45.7 SAM HOSKINS

1

45

LIAM SERCOMBE

3

41.5

JAMIE REID

4

38.3 JORDAN RHODES

5

2 3 4 5

2241 RONNIE EDWARDS 1647 JOSH KNIGHT 1577 ELLIOTT MOORE

2

1537 HARRISON BURROWS 1520 CONOR SHAUGHNESSY

DRIBBLES COMPLETED

SAVES

1 2 3 4 5

66

COREY BLACKETT-TAYLOR

1

92

MAX CROCOMBE

53

STEPHEN HUMPHRYS

2

91

SAM TICKLE

51

EPHRON MASON-CLARK

3

90

MATTHEW COX

48

NATHANIEL MÉNDEZ-LAING

4

90

JAY LYNCH

KWADWO BAAH

5

85

VILJAMI SINISALO

47

ENGLISH FOOTBALL LEAGUE - LEAGUE ONE SPOTLIGHT No team in League One has lost fewer matches than Peterborough this season (4), with the Posh losing just one of their last 22 in the league (W13 D8).

Burton Albion have won three of their last four home matches in League One (D1), keeping a clean sheet in all three victories.

_

26

STEVENAGE FC v BLACKPOOL FC

STEVENAGE FC

WOMEN 1 BOWERS & PITSEA

Quinn, Thomas, Moore, Strange, Bilson, Cooper, Drewitt, Isherwood, Locke, Farmer, Harris Subs: Darby, Elmes, Williams, Barrett Goal: Isherwood (pen)

3 STEVENAGE FCW O’Brien, Nebbitt, Brooks, Rogers, Schofield, Bodily, Gunn, Makewell, Dempsey, ThomasO’Keefe, Millen Subs: Gooderham, Hendy, Green, Clarke Goals: Thomas-O’Keefe, Millen x 2

S

tevenage cast out the demons of their previous trip to Basildon with a two goal victory over Bowers & Pitsea in the League Cup Quarter Final at the weekend. A fifth goal of the season for Matilda Thomas-O’Keefe and a brace from Kelsey Millen was enough to ensure that Millie Isherwood’s penalty was nothing more than a consolation as the ladies marched on to the next round.

In truth, the opening twenty minutes was a battle of attrition. Both sides did well at the back and restricted chances to long shots, akin to a boxer testing their opponent with light jabs. Mia O’Brien and Katie Quinn made one save each of note, but both would have been expected to collect.

If anybody had looked likely to score initially, it was the hosts. Isherwood and Locke the two players who tested O’Brien, the former at the near post with a strong hand from the stopper, the latter in a foot race that O’Brien happily won.

Boro’ however are aways capable of finding their groove and with just three minutes until the half hour mark, Thomas-O’Keefe struck. The hard work was completed by Lilia Dempsey, who worked hard to win the ball high up the pitch.

Her run into the box was excellent and ThomasO’Keefe sorted out her feet, found the angle and struck a low right-footed shot into the bottom

corner. Boro’ had the lead.

Five minutes later, the striker was clear again after pouncing on a loose ball caused by a deflection from a Dempsey effort. This time, her radar was slightly off kilter and the powerful shot rippled the side netting to the relief of the Bowers back line.

The previous outing here saw Boro’ lose their lead following an hour long break for treatment to young Katie Boyle, who has recently returned to training. With just four minutes of the half remaining, Boro’ did their level best to ensure that the script would be different this time around. A Hannah Nebbitt free kick was swung in from the right and Chloe Gunn rose highest to head back towards the far post. It looked as though it would sneak in, but instead bounced off the post for Millen to send the ball across the line with a thrust of the hips.

Bowers, predictably, came out fighting in the second half. Whilst not creating many clear cut chances, O’Brien was called into action with a strong stop at her near post once more.

However she was unequivocally beaten just before the hour mark. The Boro’ goalkeeper could only watch as Isherwood created some space and sent a curling effort high and onto the bar. Boro’ had been warned, As the halfway point of the half ticked round, Bowers were offered a lifeline. Erin Williams raced into the box to meet a cross, only to be clattered by Gunn as she tried to intercept the pass. David Dice pointed to the spot and the defender could have no complaints. Isherwood stepped up and hit a hard shot into the net, which O’Brien may have just got a fingertip to.

The game was on a knife-edge and Amy Makewell, who was again leading by example with workrate, had an audacious effort that sailed over the bar. It may have been a catalyst though, as Boro’ searched for the goal to put the tie out of doubt.

It came with six minutes remaining. Sophie Hendy saw her effort blocked and the ball deflected high for Millen to beat Makewell to the ball and hit her tenth Boro’ goal of her career.

Boro’ will progress to the semi finals where they will travel once again, this time to Wroxham for the opportunity to play in the final for the second consecutive season.

Gala Dinner

A luxury evening under the concorde at Duxford When: Saturday 2nd March, 6pm - Midnight Where: Imperial War Museum Duxford Tickets: £130 per person

To book go to: ghhospicecare.org.uk/gala-dinner Garden House Hospice Care Registered Charity No. 295257

28

STEVENAGE FC v BLACKPOOL FC

STEVENAGE FC

FOUNDATION FUNDING PARTNERS

COMMUNITY HEROES 2023/24

As part of the EFL Community Weekends, todays matchday we celebrate our 2023-24 Community Heroes from across our activity in our local area.

We’ve picked a host of heroes from across the vast variety of work we do within the local community, from participants, coaches, volunteers, and fans.

First up we’d like to introduce you to our Premier League Kicks captains Mitchell, Kyle, Dexter, and Tyrese. These four lads have been prominent faces at our PL Kicks sessions at both Nobel School, and Ridgeway Academy for some time now, recently appointed by our Youth Engagement Officer, Tom Wright as Kicks Captains, to recognise the incredible example they set to their peers and the support they provide to our staff on a weekly basis.

Next up, Brian Stapleton, who has regularly attended our Strength & Balance and our Intro to Exercise classes at Bedwell Community

29

www.stevenagefc.com

Centre. When asked about the impact session have had, Brian said “Loneliness is so difficult to deal with at any age and having to deal with mental health issues, but I have been lucky to become part of a new group of friends in Stevenage who have given me a new purpose to get up every morning and get out. Local groups such as Stevenage FC Foundation have invited me socially to join in on a Tuesday & Wednesday to do exercise classes, which has been amazing for me personally, my confidence has grown, and I have a new group of friends to socialise with we meet we have a laugh and keep fit at the same time.

Summer Readings is one of the rising stars in our Girls’ Talent Pathway, something she has been a part of for a number of years. Summer also attends our Girls’ Only Soccer Camps, and has benefitted from working with our coaches to improve both on and off the pitch. “I love that I get to train and play with other girls who are just as passionate about football as I am. We all have similar skills and interests, which creates a really motivating environment. My time at the Girls Development Centre has been incredible and has definitely shaped me in more ways than I could have imagined”.

Get Set To Go is one of our long-standing projects delivered at Stevenage FC Academy aka “Shep”. Established in 2019, the programme

is delivered in partnership with Mind in Mid Herts. Paul Yearley not only attends as a participant, but now helps support others in the community too. “It’s been a great experience, helping me to strengthen my mental health and exercise. Also, I have helped support others in the community. The team at the Foundation have always been available to call or pop in for support. Recommend to all & any level of football skills.”

Another frequent visitor to Shep is Walking Footballer, Pete Moss. Originally coming along to a taster session in 2016 in a game against MK Dons! Fast forward to 2020, and Pete was selected to play for England against Wales, until Covid-19 got in the way, however in May 202 Pete finally got his hands on that England cap.

Pete’s support for the Foundation goes beyond Walking Football, and fans may have spoken to him at the recent Samaritans matchday, a charity he volunteers for. Pete also attends and supports our Extra-Time Hub at The Oval Community Centre on a Thursday alongside our Health & Wellbeing team. Pete noted “These events have been positive for my mental and physical wellbeing through interaction with new people and taking part in new activities. I consider myself fortunate that my involvement in the Foundation sessions has had such a positive impact on my life”.

30

STEVENAGE FC v BLACKPOOL FC

Oskar is a student at a local Stevenage primary school, and has been involved with Premier League Primary Stars since September 2022, working on a 1-1 basis with Primary Education Officer, Luke Wilkins on our Change to Engage project. Sessions help students manage their behaviours, understand their emotions, and increase resilience, having a positive impact on social interactions and on their mental health and emotional wellbeing. When asked about being involved, Oskar said “Sometimes in school I felt angry if I did not win or got something wrong in class. It made me feel no good. Talking and working with Luke has helped me because I got to ask him questions, I even met the

the past 5 years she’s moved through the pathway and is now part of the Stevenage FC Women U23s side playing week in, week out for “The Boro”! Alongside this, Millie joined the Foundation as a Community Sport & Health Apprentice in September 2023, and now works as part of the wider team delivering over 185 sessions a week into the local community. On her time with the Foundation, Millie said “When I look back at my journey, I can’t believe how lucky I’ve been, I can’t believe it’s me! This opportunity has given me such an amazing start In my career within the world of football.

I am enjoying working within schools and the community to help support other

Oskar is a shining example of how the programme has supported him

Stevenage FC players, and asked them how they feel if they lose a match. Now I know what to do if I feel angry or upset, I stay calm because they told me it’s OK not to win all the time. Being a Community Hero has made me feel happy, excited, and proud because I feel like maybe I can help people with what I have learnt from Stevenage FC Foundation”. His teacher Julie added “Oskar is a shining example of how the programme has supported him, he has better understanding of his emotions, and ways to deal with them through a common language of sport.

We are sure that the lessons from Change to Engage will stay with him for life.”

Next, we’d like to recognise one of our own in Millie Grima-Stacey, who started her journey with the Foundation when she was 11 years old as part of the Girls’ Development Centre. In

children knowing I’m making a difference is so rewarding. I feel I’ve been blessed with opportunities, and I will always work hard and never give up trying to make a difference to women’s football for the younger generation. I will always remember my journey”.

Now for a familiar face to many here at The Lamex, the founder and driving force behind The Broadhall Way, Lewis Collins. In 2020, The Broadhall Way came to life utilising innovative merchandise to recognise the heritage of Stevenage FC and raise money for local causes at the same time. To date,

31

www.stevenagefc.com

Lewis has raised over £2,600 for organisations such as Mind in Mid Herts, Great Ormond Street, MSA Trust, Cardiomyopathy, NHS Trust, and the Foundation itself. Earlier this season, when I approached him about expanded his East Terrace flag project, his passion for the Club and the sense of belonging it gives to those that are part of the Boro family, was abundantly clear. He’s supported our schools work with the “Where’s Danny Rose” initiative last season, and is a credit to Stevenage FC, as well as Keith Bell’s biggest fan!

That makes up our Community XI, but every side needs a great manager. This year, we would like to recognise a Foundation stalwart, our Head of Education & Learning, Daryl Smith. Daryl joined the team way back June 2011, and since then has taken on near enough every single roll that the Foundation has to offer. He has seen the Club rise from the National League to League One playoff contenders and everything in between. During his time, he has looked after matchday experiences, our inclusive football teams, community work, soccer camps, and more recently, all our education projects including extra-curricular clubs, PL Primary Stars, mentoring apprentices, our Foundation Degree programme, adult learning, and alternative provision work supporting young people to access the best opportunities they can. In the last 13 years, Daryl has worked with and impacted thousands of lives from across our community, championing Stevenage FC, and using the badge to make people’s lives better.

In short, there would be no Stevenage FC Foundation without Daryl Smith, and that’s why we’re delighted to name him as one of Community Heroes for 2023-24.

Those that have been chosen for this years Community XI will be presented to the fans at The Lamex ahead of kick-off, please join us in showing appreciation for all they’ve achieved, and on behalf of the Foundation, we thank them for championing our work across Stevenage and surrounding areas.

A final note from me today, all at the Foundation want to express their deepest condolences to Ollie Gatfield’s family and friends, after his passing last weekend, our thoughts are with you all at this time. Liam Sharpe also remains in our thoughts, and we send him our prayers as he continues to fight whilst in critical condition. A reminder, you can donate to the GoFundMe page here LINK JOE GOUDE Foundation Chief Executive Officer

32

STEVENAGE FC v BLACKPOOL FC

WELCOME

www.blackpoolfc.co.uk CLICK HERE FOR THE COMPLETE SQUAD LIST

Meet the boss

Manager Neil Critchley was appointed in May of last year, less than 12 months after his original departure following the signing of a four-year contract.

He originally lead the Tangerines to the Championship in 2021 and kept them up in his first season.

Neil Critchle y Shortly after signing a new long-term contract he left Bloomfield Road to become Steven Gerrard’s assistant at Aston Villa.

He was sacked within four months and the former Reds’ youth coach departed the Midlands with him.

Critchley played one game for Crewe in his League playing career and also appeared for Leigh RMI.

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

33

www.stevenagefc.com

RESULTS

Last FIVE Bolton

Bristol R

Forest

Exeter

W0-0(p)

D1-1

W1-2

L2-3

W2-0

22/23 Championship 23rd (R)

21/22 Championship 16th

20/21 League 1 3rd (P)

19/20 League 1 13th

18/19 League 1 10th

HOME

SEASONS

Charlton HOME

AWAY

ONES TO watch

HOME

Ollie Norburn became the fourth signing of the 2023 summer transfer window, joining the Club from Peterborough United on a two-year deal.

With the option of an additional year, Norburn spent two seasons at Posh where he took on a leadership role with three years at Shrewsbury Town prior to that seeing him become a key figure.

Norburn also has experience of international football as part of the Grenada national team.

band

James Hus

Left-back James Husband initially joined Blackpool on a season-long loan from Norwich City in July 2019.

However, the Seasiders moved to make that switch permanent in January 2020, with the former Canary penning an initial 18-month deal.

The defender, who has also played for the likes of Doncaster Rovers, Middlesbrough, Fulham and Huddersfield Town, signed another contract with the Club in the summer of 2021, having played a key part in promotion back to the Championship.

HOME

Ollie No

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This makes the journey enjoyable, giving you time to get in the football spirit before reaching the stadium. If you’re into being eco-friendly, taking Thameslink is a greener option compared to other ways of traveling. So, if you want a convenient, comfortable, and eco-friendly journey to support Stevenage Football Club, Thameslink is the way to go. It’s an easy choice that makes your match day experience even better! And you can save up to 34% if travelling in a group with our GroupSave ticket plus kid’s can travel for £2*.

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WELCOME

LATEST NEWS

Firstly, I should like to offer my most appreciative thanks to the staff and supporters of Blackpool who courteously offered their help and assistance to all the Stevenage fans when our SA bus was vandalised outside Bloomfield Road back in October last year. Thank you.

Hats off to all the Seasiders’ fans here today.

Having been on their bus at The Red Lion – since 6:45am this morning – it’s been a long day already, let alone the journey back home!

A special welcome to Andy Higgins (chair) and his excellent committee who comprise the Blackpool Supporters’ Trust. Great to have you all here.

MOVIE SCENES IN STEVENAGE

Image courtesy www.reelstreets.com

Stevenage has been a popular location for movie sets over the years. Ones that immediately spring to mind include “Boston Kickout” (1995), “Serious Charge” (1959), “Spy Game” (2001) and “Here we go round the Mulberry Bush” (1968). However, who of you have seen an old film from 1950 called “Last Holiday”?

A “shot” in the film has lead actor Alec Guinness standing outside 109 High Street alongside an archway, which is mocked up as a funeral directors’ (“Dark and Sons”) with a hearse appearing. “What’s this got to do with football?” I hear you ask. The prompt is inspired by our new loanee from Reading, Nesta Guinness-Walker. Sir Alec Guinness was his great granddad!

INTER-CITY BORO

So, we travel away on the next two consecutive Saturdays.

On February 10th (next week) we go to Port Vale. Departing The Lamex at 10:00am, the cost is just £25 for members and £30 if you’re not.

The week after (Feb 17th), we go to Derby County’s Pride Park stadium. As with the Port Vale bus, it’s £25 a member seat and a 10:00am departure again. We’re nothing if not consistent!

Get thee there with Boro the Bear and join the club – our club.

FOOTBALL SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATION (FSA)

Football Supporters’ Association released the following statement after the recent incident at WBA-Wolves: “The FSA is opposed to all forms of violence, be that physical threat or verbal abuse. There’s no place for it at football and the vast majority of law-abiding fans do not want to see such scenes at the match.

“The FA has announced it is launching an investigation into the incident and we will encourage our members at WBA and Wolves to share their experiences if they were in the crowd.”

In a statement, the Football Association said: “The disorder that occurred … is completely unacceptable. Safety and security are of the utmost importance, and the behaviour of those involved was dangerous and ¬inexcusable.

We will be investigating these serious incidents alongside the clubs and the relevant -authorities, and the appropriate action will be taken.”

The Stevenage FC Supporters’ Association (SA) aligns itself with the statement of the FSA and look forward to the investigation being conducted by the FA. The SA also strongly supports the Ground Regulations of the Lamex Stadium, particularly Regs 9, 10 and 11 pertaining. A copy of the ground Regs can be uploaded here.

LLOYD BRISCOE Stevenage FC Supporters’ Association

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41

www.stevenagefc.com DATE

OPPONENT

ATT

RES BORO SCORERS 1-0

FIXTURES & RESULTS

2023/24

AUGUST 2023 Sat Aug 05

Northampton Town

FL1

7,049

Tue Aug 08

Watford

CC

4,495 1-1 (4-3) March

Piergianni

Sat Aug 12

Shrewsbury Town

FL1

3,962

2-0

Pressley, Reid

Tue Aug 15

Cambridge United

FL1

7,529

2-1

Roberts, Reid

Sat Aug 19

Reading

FL1

11,674

0-2

Sat Aug 26

Portsmouth

FL1

5,352

0-0

Tue Aug 29

Exeter

CC

4,006 1-1 (5-3) Roberts

APPEARANCES

Sat Nov 04

Tranmere Rovers

EFAC 2,404

4-3

Sat Nov 11

Wycombe Wanderers

FL1

4,936

1-0

Reid

Tue Nov 14

Crystal Palace U-21

EFLT

607

5-2

OG, Forster-Caskey, White, Pressley x2

Sat Nov 18

Lincoln City

FL1

5,075

1-0

Reid

Sat Nov 25

Fleetwood Town

FL1

2,771

3-0

Reid, Thompson, List

Tue Nov 28

Peterborough United

FL1

5,041

2-2

Wildin, Thompson

Carl Piergianni Dan Butler Taye Ashby-Hammond Jordan Roberts Jamie Reid Luther James-Wildin Finley Burns Nick Freeman Terence Vancooten Jake Forster-Caskey Nathan Thompson Louis Thompson Dan Sweeney Kane Hemmings Alex MacDonald Aaron Pressley Ben Thompson Elliott List Krisztián Hegyi Harrison Neal Kane Smith Reece Hannam Charlie McNeill Harvey White Josh March Theo Alexandrou Harry Anderson Makise Evans David Hicks Rylee Mitchell Max Woodford

LEAGUE TABLE

SEPTEMBER 2023 FL1

8,287

Tue Sept 05 AFC Wimbledon

EFLT

1,317 1-1 (6-5) Reid

Sat Sept 09

Carlisle United

FL1

4,228

2-2

Reid x2

Sat Sept 16

Charlton Athletic

FL1

5,118

1-1

Reid

Sat Sept 23

Cheltenham Town

FL1

3,947

3-0

Roberts, List x2

Sat Sept 30

Oxford United

FL1

5,512

1-3

Reid

Sat Sept 02

Leyton Orient

3-0

McNeill, Sweeney, Freeman

OCTOBER 2023 Tue Oct 03

Bolton Wanderers

FL1

17,997

2-3

Reid x2

Sat Oct 07

Wigan Athletic

FL1

4,402

1-0

Pressley

Tue Oct 10

Wycombe Wanderers

EFLT

902

0-1

Sat Oct 14

Blackpool

FL1

10,516

0-3

Sat Oct 21

Port Vale

FL1

4,047

0-0

Tue Oct 24

Bristol Rovers

FL1

7,143

1-1

Reid

Sat Oct 28

Derby County

FL1

5,866

3-1

Roberts, MacDonald, Hemmings Roberts, Reid x2, Hemmings

NOVEMBER 2023

DECEMBER 2023 Sat Dec 02

Port Vale

EFAC 2,491

1-1

Reid

Sat Dec 09

Burton Albion

FL1

2-1

Hemmings, Reid

Tue Dec 12

Port Vale

EFAC 2,073 3-3 (4-3) White, Hemmings, Thompson

2,406

Sat Dec 16

Exeter City

FL1

4,007

1-1

Piergianni

Sat Dec 23

Barnsley

FL1 14,525

1-2

Wildin

Tue Dec 26

Northampton Town

FL1

3-0

Reid, Roberts, List

5,164

Portsmouth

FL1

18,891

1-2

2 0 0 6 19 2 0 1 0 1 1 1 1 4 1 4 2 4 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0

P

W

D

L

Pts

1 Portsmouth

30

17

9

4

60

2 Bolton Wanderers

27

18

3

6

57

3 Peterborough United

28

16

8

4

56 56

4 Derby County

29

17

5

7

28

15

7

6

52

Thompson

6 Oxford United

29

15

5

9

50

7 Stevenage

27

14

7

6

49

8 Blackpool

29

13

7

9

46

9 Northampton Town

28

12

4

12

40

10 Leyton Orient

28

10

9

9

39

11 Bristol Rovers

28

10

7

11

37

11

10

35

Sat Jan 06

Maidstone United

EFAC 4,024

0-1

Sat Jan 13

Shrewsbury Town

FL1

5,259

1-0

Reid

Sun Jan 27

Wigan Athletic

FL1

8,804

3-2

Reid, Piergianni, Thompson

FEBRUARY 2024

GLS

5 Barnsley

JANUARY 2024 Mon Jan 01

PL

32 (1) 30 (0) 29 (0) 28 (5) 27 (6) 24 (1) 22 (6) 20 (11) 18 (2) 17 (8) 17 (8) 17 (10) 14 (0) 13 (11) 12 (11) 12 (7) 12 (14) 10 (17) 6 (0) 6 (5) 6 (3) 3 (4) 3 (0) 3 (6) 2 (3) 1 (1) 1 (2) 0 (1) 0 (1) 0 (0) 0 (1)

Sat Feb 03

Blackpool

FL1

Tue Feb 06

Reading

FL1

Sat Feb 10

Port Vale

FL1

12 Lincoln City

29

8

Tue Feb 13

Bristol Rovers

FL1

13 Wigan Athletic

29

12

6

11

34

Sat Feb 17

Derby County

FL1

Sat Feb 24

Wycombe Wanderers

FL1

14 Exeter City

29

9

6

14

33

Tue Feb 27

Cambridge United

FL1

15 Shrewsbury Town

29

10

3

16

33

16 Cambridge United

27

8

8

11

32

MARCH 2023

17 Burton Albion

29

8

8

13

32

18 Charlton Athletic

29

7

10

12

31

19 Wycombe Wanderers

28

7

10

11

31

20 Port Vale

26

8

6

12

30

FL1

21 Reading

28

8

7

13

27

FL1

22 Cheltenham Town

27

6

5

16

23

23 Carlisle United

29

4

8

17

20

23 Fleetwood Town

28

4

7

17

19

Sat Mar 02

Lincoln City

FL1

Sat Mar 09

Fleetwood Town

FL1

Tue Mar 12

Peterborough United

FL1

Sat Mar 16

Leyton Orient

FL1

Sat Mar 23

Carlisle United

Fri Mar 29

Bolton Wanderers

Mon Apr 01

Charlton Athletic

FL1

Sat Apr 06

Exeter City

FL1

Sat Apr 13

Burton Albion

FL1

Sat Apr 20

Oxford United

FL1

Sat Apr 27

Cheltenham Town

FL1

APRIL 2024

CLICK HERE FOR FULL TABLE AND STATS

A T STE VENA GE SW IMMIN G CE NTRE

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STEVENAGE FC

MANAGER: STEVE EVANS TAYE ASHBY-HAMMOND (GK) LUTHER JAMES-WILDIN DAN BUTLER NATHAN THOMPSON CARL PIERGIANNI DAN SWEENEY ALEX MACDONALD JAKE FORSTER-CASKEY ELLIOTT LIST NICK FREEMAN JORDAN ROBERTS CRAIG MACGILLIVRAY (GK) KANE SMITH TERENCE VANCOOTEN HARRY ANDERSON FINLEY BURNS HARVEY WHITE JAMIE REID AARON PRESSLEY NESTA GUINNESS-WALKER LOUIS THOMPSON BEN THOMPSON REECE HANNAM KANE HEMMINGS VADAINE OLIVER

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 22 23 24 25 29 33

OFFICIALS

REFEREE: Simon Mather ASSISTANT: Daniel Cook ASSISTANT: Alex Bradley FOURTH OFFICIAL: Abigail Byrne

BLACKPOOL FC

MANAGER: NEIL CRITCHLEY 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 13 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 24 27 30 32

RICH O’DONNELL CALLUM CONNOLLY JAMES HUSBAND JORDAN GABRIEL MATT PENNINGTON OLIVER NORBURN OWEN DALE ALBIE MORGAN KYLE JOSEPH SONNY CAREY KARAMOKO DEMBELE MACKENZIE CHAPMAN HAYDEN COULSON JORDAN RHODES MATTY VIRTUE JAKE BEESLEY SHAYNE LAVERY OLIVER CASEY MARVIN EKPITETA CJ HAMILTON ANDY LYONS KYLIAN KOUASSI TASHAN OAKLEY-BOOTHE DAN GRIMSHAW

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