Woking FC v Maidenhead United FC

W K ING 2023/24 #15

MICHAEL DOYLE

V. MAIDENHeaD SATURDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2023 KICK OFF: 15:00

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MANAGER

MIcHAEL doYle

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CEO NOTES

JOHN kATZ G

reetings, and (at long last) welcome back to the Laithwaite Community Stadium for this afternoon’s matchup between your Cards and our visitors from Maidenhead United.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I’d like to welcome the Board and supporters of the Magpies to the Laithwaite. Happy to welcome back former Cards Craig Ross and Kane Ferdinand back as well.

A new era begins today as Michael Doyle takes his first match as the new Manager of Woking Football Club. Caretaker Manager Ian Dyer will resume his duties as Assistant Manager under Doyle, with Goalkeeper Coach Marlon Beresford and Player/Coach Scott Cuthbert also continuing in their roles. Ben Turner will complete Doyle’s staff, joining as a First Team Coach.

“When it came down to selecting our new gaffer, Michael Doyle stood out amongst a crowded field for his vision, his charisma, and his character. He’ll get the most out of the players we have and will be very influential with his contacts in recruitment and scouting.”

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“A new era begins today as Michael Doyle takes his first match as the new Manager of Woking Football Club.”

I think it’s well important to express my gratitude to Ian for both stints as Caretaker Manager.

He’s been there and stood up when the Club needed him most, and I’m very proud and thankful for him having jumped into the spotlight on both occasions.

When it came down to selecting our new gaffer, Michael Doyle stood out amongst a crowded field for his vision, his charisma, and his character.

He’ll get the most out of the players we have and will be very influential with his contacts in recruitment and scouting. He also understands

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the relationship between the Club and our supporters and our community, and a goal to bring us all together.

As you can imagine, and as I said in our announcement on Sunday, we had a choice to play it safe or to make a bold choice as our new Manager. A show of intent that we’re not complacent. We all want to win, and Michael Doyle is a serial winner.

As always, thanks for your continued support.

It means the world to our entire club.

Always remember that the complaint (and compliment) line is always open. Just email me at john.katz@wokingfc.co.uk and we can take in your feedback. Or, as the kids say, you can slide into my DMs on Twitter at @jekatz33.

Best, John Katz Chief Executive

In Safe HandS As a reminder, it is our goal to ensure that all supporters feel safe and welcome at the Laithwaite Community Stadium. To that end, on 11 December 2021, the Club launched the “In Safe Hands” programme to help our fans report racist, sexist, homophobic, or other abusive language simply and anonymously.

If you hear any abusive language, experience it yourself or if you or someone you see feels / looks threatened, you can text the Club anonymously and the message will be monitored by our Safety Officer during the match. Simply text WFC (followed by the nature of your concern and location) to 66777 and we will address your concerns. Example: If you hear racial abuse whilst sitting in the KRE, please send the following text to 66777: “WFC racial abuse centre section of KRE.”

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MARTIN TYleR 70 YEARS OF SUPPORTING WOKING

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AHeaD OF THE GAME

Woking vs. Maidenhead Vanarama National League 23rd December 2023 15:00 Kick-Off

Woking will hope for a positive start to the Michael Doyle era when they welcome Maidenhead United to the Laithwaite on Saturday.

After ending a run of seven straight defeats thanks to Paul Osew's late goal against Dorking at Meadowbank, caretaker manager Ian Dyer will resume his duties as assistant to Doyle, who will have a positive selection dilemma for his first game in charge.

The likes of Rhys Browne and Reece Grego-Cox missed out at Dorking, and Rohan Ince was a late substitute, with returns for Manny Oyeleke and Jim Kellermann proving highly successful. There was also no place in the matchday squad for Morgan Williams, who has been impressive on loan from AFC Wimbledon, so it will be interesting to see if Doyle brings him back into the fold.

AROUND THE GROUND Ticket pricing and other details are available here.

The Club reminds supporters, in light of the forecasted weather, that pointed umbrellas are not permitted in the ground. Smaller, non-pointed umbrellas are.

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OPPOSITION WATCH Taking charge of Maidenhead United for the ninth consecutive season, Alan Devonshire once again had to deal with big squad changes in the summer as the likes of 'keepers Dan Gyollai and Alexis Andre Jr, now of course at Woking himself departed, but the Magpies pulled off something of a coup in securing the services of popular Woking stopper Craig Ross, who has been a key part of a Maidenhead side currently clear of danger in 12th, having kept seven league clean sheets.

Other changes included striker Emile Acquah securing a move to League Two Barrow where he is playing a big hand in a promotion push there, and the Magpies have been unable to fully replace his output. However, winger duo Reece Smith and Ashley Nathaniel-George have earned much praise across the division. Smith, a Maidenhead academy graduate, scored five in what was a real breakout season last year, and already has seven in 21 appearances this season ahead of a January where the Magpies will hope to retain his services. NathanielGeorge, meanwhile, has found a real home at Maidenhead, and the 28-year-old will prove tricky to stop with his skill and end product from the wing.

As previously mentioned, Maidenhead currently sit 12th, five points ahead of the Cards having played a game more, winning seven, drawing nine and losing eight of their 24 games thus far. They've scored 28 and conceded 33, and come to the Laithwaite unbeaten in seven league games, having won five and drawn two of them, which has propelled them away from danger.

LAST TIME OUT A captivating 0-0 draw at York Road in September saw both sides spurn chances, but ultimately the

TICKET INFORMATION Adults: £20 Concession: £15 Next-Gen (17-22): £12 Under 17 (14-16): £8 Under 14 (13 & under): £5

points were shared. Last season, Woking were victorious in March with a regulation 2-0 win thanks to goals from Padraig Amond and Luke Wilkinson, but the reverse fixture in Berkshire in September went the way of the Magpies by a 1-0 margin.

Overall, in their last 21 meetings with Maidenhead, Woking have been victorious eight times, with five draws and eight Maidenhead wins.

Prices will increase on the turnstile and supporters are encouraged to purchase in advance.

Home supporters can purchase tickets here.

Away supporters can purchase tickets here.

MATCHDAY GUIDE Click here for information on gate opening times, food and drink facilities, the Club shop and other ticketing information.

DISABLED SUPPORTERS Click here for more information.

ARRIVING AT THE STADIUM Kingfield Road turnstiles – blue and yellow entry opens two-and-a-half hours before kick-off, unless otherwise stated.

Westfield Avenue turnstiles - red and orange entry opens two-and-a-half hours before kick-off, unless otherwise stated.

Away supporter turnstiles - white entry opens two hours before kick-off, unless stated otherwise.

Supporters who have purchased a hospitality

package will have green entry and should enter through the Guest Entrance, Kingfield Road.

Supporters are reminded to arrive at the Laithwaite Community Stadium in good time, and are not guaranteed to gain entry in time for kick-off when arriving less than 30 minutes before kick-off.

Food & Drink at Laithwaite Community Stadium The Cardinals Bar is located at the front of the stadium.

The bar has full draught and bottle beer options. The Fan Zone is the newest addition for supporters and is located opposite the Cardinals Bar. Moaners Corner Café is located next Moaners Corners Stand, with hot and cold drinks, plus snacks available.

The Seymours Community Stand has hot food options and a last lane for beverages.

CLUB SHOP The Club Shop is open two-and-a-half hours before kick-off, located by the Fan Zone.

The shop is also open Mon - Fri, 10:00 - 16:00, upon check-in at reception.

TICKETING INFORMATION All Woking FC Season Ticket holders can use their Season Ticket card to enter Laithwaite Community Stadium for all Vanarama National League matches.

Supporters with individual match tickets can use the e-ticket they purchased which was emailed from noreply@ktckts.com. Such tickets can be scanned on a smartphone or when printed.

Any assistance needed for matchday please contact tickets@wokingfc.co.uk, call 01483967229, or come to reception Mon - Fri, 09:00 - 17:00, or matchdays, 09:00 - half-time.

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SocIAL

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Winning feeling.

Looking to back it up on Saturday.

70 years ago today, Martin Tyler attended his first-ever football match.

Steering us through tough times.

Ian Dyer, a proper Woking person.

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Big week ahead.

Up Michael Doyle's Cardinals

Creating special memories @dennon_lewis gifted his boots to young supporter, @jaxywoodley, at full-time yesterday.

Woking Football Club can today confirm the appointment of Michael Doyle as First Team Manager.

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Fide et Diligentia Woking FC 2023/24 Kits

Supplied by ProDirect Clubhouse, the shirts will be available in-store at the Laithwaite Community Stadium for the home match.

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WOKING Akinola 35’, Osew 85’

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www.maidenheadunitedfc.org

HISTORIC YORK ROAD Maidenhead Football Club first played in December 1870 at Bond’s Meadow. In February 1871 the club moved to the York Road site, making it the oldest senior football ground continuously used by the same club in the world. Maidenhead were in the first FA Cup competition in 1871-72. They also entered the first FA Amateur Cup in 1893. Club colours were red and black.

Maidenhead FC merged with Maidenhead Excelsior in 1885, and both Maidenhead Temperance and Boyne Hill FC in 1891. They were founder members of the Southern League in 1894, but competing in Division 2 proved too demanding, and in 1902 they joined the West Berkshire League and the Berks & Bucks League. In 1904 Maidenhead joined the Great Western Suburban League where they remained until the Great War.

‘UNITED’ After the war, Maidenhead Norfolkians were incorporated into the club, a kit of black and white was adopted and Maidenhead FC won the Great Western Suburban League. In 1920 the suffix "United" was added and the freehold of York Road was purchased for £1,450. Two years later the club joined the Spartan League, which they won three times during their 19-year stay.

In 1929-30 Jack Palethorpe notched 65 goals in 39 games, a club record, including seven in one game. In 1936, Maidenhead reached the semifinal of the FA Amateur Cup. After the Second World War, the club became founder members of the Corinthian League.

Between 1956 and 1963 the Magpies won the league and reached the 1st round proper of the FA Cup three times.

L AST 5 SEASONS 20th - 22/23

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17th - 21/22

13th - 20/21

21st - 19/20

19th - 18/19

In 1963, United joined the Athenian League. In 1973, the Magpies were elected into the second division of the Isthmian League. They stayed there until 1987 when the club suffered relegation. It took four seasons to get out of Division Two South, but an Isthmian League record of 13 straight wins and a club record of 19 league games without defeat made them runners-up.

UPS AND DOWNS In each season between 1996 and 2003 Maidenhead reached a cup final, winning five and losing two. In 1999-2000 United achieved promotion to the Isthmian League Premier Division.

In 2003-2004, United secured Conference South football. In 2005-06, they dropped to the Southern League. The Magpies had immediate success with a first FA Cup First Round proper appearance, and a return to the Conference South through the play-offs.

They reached the 1st Round Proper of the FA Cup in 2007 and again in 2011-12, where they met league opposition, in Aldershot Town, for the first time. The league season ended in relegation, but

the demise of Kettering Town saw the Magpies reprieved.

RECENT SEASONS In 2016–17 Maidenhead won the renamed National League South, earning promotion to the National League. They earned 98 points, 2 more than professional Ebbsfleet United, who were favourites to win. In their first season in the division, another FA Cup First Round appearance saw them lose 2–0 at Coventry City. They reached the first round again in 2019– 20, losing 3–1 at home to Rotherham United.

The 2019–20 National League season was officially curtailed on 31 March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, requiring the outcome of the final table to be decided on a points per game basis. Both Maidenhead and Ebbsfleet United finished the season on 1.08 points per game, but the latter were relegated to the Conference South on goal difference, with Maidenhead again reprieved. In 2020-21 they finished 13th, in 2021-22 17th, and last season 20th, just two points clear of relegation.

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MANAGER ALAN DEVONSHIRE Age: 67 In his first spell in charge of the Magpies, his first senior managerial post, over seven seasons from 1996-2003, Alan oversaw promotion to the Isthmian League Premier Division, and the end of a twentyseven-year silverware drought with wins in the Isthmian League Full Members Cup, and four Berks & Bucks Senior Cup triumphs.

After leaving United in 2003, Alan first took Hampton & Richmond Borough from the Isthmian League to the brink of the NL. He then consolidated Braintree Town’s place in the NL. On his return to United in May 2015, a 7th place finish in 2016 laid the foundation for promotion being clinched on the final day of the '16/17 season, with United winning the VNL South (as well as the Berks and Bucks Senior Cup), and Alan winning the VNL South Manager of the season award. He then led the Magpies to a top-half finish in their inaugural VNL season in '17/18, and they now enjoy their seventh consecutive season in the division.

As a player Alan was a much-loved midfielder at WHU where he made over 400 appearances including the famous 1980 FA Cup Final win. He also won eight England caps. After success as a manager in junior football with Osterley, Alan was appointed joint manager of Maidenhead in the summer of 1996 alongside Martyn Busby, taking sole charge in March 1997.

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ONE TO WATCH ASHLEY NATHANIEL-GEORGE Age: 28 Number: 8 Position: Attacking Midfielder/Winger London born winger who was with the likes of Arsenal and Watford as a youth player. Played in the Isthmian League with Potters Bar Town, where he scored 17 in 57, and Hendon, scoring 13 in 52, and attracting the attention of EFL side Crawley Town. Following 9 goals in 46 League Two starts, between August '18 and October '20, NathanielGeorge joined Southend United with then Shrimpers manager Mark Molesley predicting “Ash is skilful, very quick and exciting so I think he’s one that will have people on the edge of their seat.”

Unfortunately, a knee injury kept him out from April '21 to Feb '22, when he joined NL South side Ebbsfleet United on a one-month loan. However, he was released at the end of the season.

A short spell with Torquay followed before Alan Devonshire brought the player to York Road in September 2022. He made his international debut for Antigua and Barbuda in June last year, and now has eleven caps. Scored five goals in 38 appearances last season, including excellent, and crucial, goals against Halifax Town, and Dagenham & Redbridge. His performances winning him the Supporters’ Player of the Season award. Has three goals in 16 appearances this season.

CUP COMPETITIONS It was in season 1931/32, when Maidenhead United were on their way to being Spartan League Premier Division runners up, and Woking were struggling in the Isthmian League, that the clubs first met, being drawn together in the 1st round of the FA Amateur Cup, in Berkshire. A crowd of 2,800 saw a comprehensive home win of 4-0. That was the only pre-war meeting.

Post-war, Maidenhead joined the Corinthian League, later merging into the Athenian League.

With the advent of floodlights at most non-league grounds in the fifties and sixties, the Athenian and Isthmian clubs took part in a midweek Mithras Cup competition. Woking entered the competition in 1964 and it was in this cup that they next met Maidenhead in 1966/67 - a club from a league named after the Greek goddess of wisdom, in a cup named after the Greek god of heavenly light. All that celestial backing helped the Berkshire club to a semi-final, first leg victory, ‘our players never felt at home on a bumpy surface and a light ball’. In the second leg at Kingfield a goalless stalemate was played out and Maidenhead went on to the final where they lost to Barking in a replay.

The following season, as well as the Mithras Cup,

Woking entered the Wycombe Floodlit League, and it was in this competition that the clubs next met.

The first game was held at Kingfield in November and again Maidenhead prevailed 1-2 this time. In the return game though, in March, Woking gained their first win over the Magpies. Maidenhead had just lost 0-8 to Wycombe in the competition and did not bother with a programme for the turn of Woking.

The Cards ran out 0-3 winners at York Road. Isthmian League clubs were then withdrawn from these competitions to avoid fixture backlogs, as their own league expanded.

In September 1972 Maidenhead were drawn at home to Woking in the FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round.

A disappointing game was ‘like watching a tennis match’, ‘dominated by both defences’. Then Maidenhead made one slip-up, with the goalkeeper and left-back going for the same ball, ‘Dave Leonard darted in and hit it hard and straight into the goal’ to settle the tie.

Maidenhead joined the inaugural Isthmian League Second Division in 1973, this second division was expanded from sixteen to twenty-two clubs over two seasons, leading to a League Cup being introduced in 1975. It was in this competition, the Rothmans Cup (sponsorship was leading non-

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league clubs away from their amateur past), that the clubs were next drawn together in December 1976, in the 1st round, again at York Road. Both clubs were struggling in their respective divisions but a comprehensive 0-6 victory, with ‘Alan Morton scoring four goals’, saw Woking through to the next round.

THE FIRST LEAGUE MEETING Maidenhead just missed out on promotion in 1979 and 1980, finishing third twice. In the early eighties Woking struggled with financial troubles and were eventually relegated in 1983, joining Maidenhead in the second tier of the Isthmian League for the 1983/84 season. The first league meeting saw ex-Cards managers Brian Caterer and Colin Lippiatt bring their team to Kingfield. Dave Holloway was consolidating Woking’s position in mid-table, with the Magpies nine points ahead and looking towards promotion. The Maidenhead team included a young Laurence Batty, Mark Franks and Lance Cadogan. Goals from Terry Worsfold and Maurice Cox saw Woking earn the three points in front of 130 fans, Maidenhead’s reply was from Mark Franks. For the return game in Berkshire in April, Maidenhead’s team also included Mark Davis. Maidenhead were only out of the promotion places on goal difference with

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six games to play, their visitors were in mid-table. In an entertaining game the Magpies took an early lead before Woking missed a penalty. Paul Williams then scored two quick goals to put the Cards ahead. Mark Davis equalised before half-time.

Maurice Cox restored Woking’s lead, before a last-minute penalty drew the Magpies level at 3-3.

Maidenhead drew three more of their five league games to miss out on promotion to Epsom & Ewell.

Dave Holloway stood down at the end of the season and Woking’s worst ever manager took over for the start of 1984/85 season. Bill Dodgin oversaw five straight league defeats at the start of the season, the fifth of which was at home to Maidenhead. Lance Cadogan and Nevada Phillips scored in the second half in front of a resilient 190 supporters. By mid-April Geoff Chapple had dropped a division to take over as Woking manager, but the Cards were five points from safety and scrapping for their lives. The second of a seven-match unbeaten run took place at York Road, with a second-half Paul Richardson goal taking the points. Goalkeeper, Laurence Batty, took, and missed, a penalty for Maidenhead to keep Woking’s survival hopes alive. Unfortunately, a final day defeat to St Albans meant Woking were relegated for a second time in three years, as Maidenhead finished in mid-table.

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DIFFERENT PATHS The clubs did meet the following season (1985/86), as they were drawn together in the FA Trophy 1st Qualifying Round at Kingfield. Caterer and Lippiatt had ‘signed almost a new squad’, in an attempt to gain promotion. Their new players included ex and future Cards Stuart Walton, Stewart Mitchell, Mark Biggins and Eggie James! Woking started well, as Maurice Cox, Clive Youlton and John Cassidy gave the Cards a 3-0 lead after half an hour. Nevada Phillips pulled one back before half-time. With only fifteen minutes to go Woking seemed to be cruising through, until two goals in three minutes from Ian Parsons and Mark Harris drew the Magpies level.

With seven minutes to go two goals in two minutes, through an own goal and returning legend Eggie James, put Maidenhead in front for the first time.

A last-minute Mark Dawber goal was not enough to save the tie as Maidenhead won through to host Bognor Regis Town.

1986/87 season saw the club’s cross over, Woking won the Division Two South title as Maidenhead were relegated to it, along with Epsom & Ewell.

Woking’s rise continued with further promotions, to the Premier Division in 1990 and to the Conference in 1992. Maidenhead gained promotion back to Division One in 1991 and stayed there until 2000 when they finally reached the Isthmian League Premier Division for the first time. In 2004 Maidenhead’s mid-table position enabled them to join the new Conference South, however, they finished bottom in their second season and were relegated to the Southern League after a gap of 105 years. Promotion back to the Conference South was gained at the first attempt, via the play-offs in 2007 where the Magpies consolidated. Woking’s seventeen year run in the Conference ended with relegation in 2009 so the clubs were to meet again in league action after a gap of twenty-five years.

LEAGUE BATTLES RE-JOINED In 2009/10, Woking Manager Graham Baker welcomed Maidenhead to Kingfield in September, in a game that they were expected to win. An early Luke Medley goal was cancelled out however, after a Tony Sinclair error presented Kieron Knight with the opportunity to equalise. The return game at York Road took place in April, with only three league

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games left to play. Woking were on a run of six straight wins as they earned a play-off place, while Maidenhead, in fifteenth place, had retained a place in the division with a win in the previous game.

The Cards went behind to a penalty from Kieron St Aimie, before a late own goal equalised, and then Giuseppe Sole converted a penalty to win the game. The Cards were beaten in the Play-Off Final at Bath City, so the clubs were to meet the following season.

2010/11 saw Maidenhead flirt with, but avoid, relegation as Woking again made the play-offs.

However, Woking started the season poorly and lost the home game to Johnson ‘Drax’ Hippolyte’s team in September, a deflected Alex Wall shot and another from St Aimie gave them the victory. In January Graham Baker was replaced by Garry Hill, and he oversaw a twelve-match unbeaten run to reach the play-offs. In the middle of this the Cards visited York Road in February, with the Magpies sitting in 20th position and yet to win in 2011, their Assistant Manager was one Dereck Brown. After both teams had been reduced to ten-men, Elvis Hammond settled the game mid-way through the second half. The game left Maidenhead in the relegation zone but they managed to pull clear.

Woking again lost in the play-offs.

Before the clubs met in the league in 2011/12, the teams were drawn together in the FA Cup 3rd Qualifying Round. Halfway through the first half a Jack King penalty equalised an earlier Ashan Holgate goal, before Reece Tison-Lascaris twice and Holgate again made it 4-1 by half-time, four shots, four goals. Several second half chances were not taken, and the Magpies were through. They went on to beat Godalming, then play Aldershot in the 1st Round, losing in a replay.

THE CARDS ARE GOING UP The initial league meeting was played as late as March 2012, with Woking top of the league and heading to the title but struggling Maidenhead gained another victory. Aaron Lennox saved a Jack King penalty but was lucky to still be on the pitch after giving it away. That miss proved costly as in the second half, Bobby Behzadi scored a penalty for the visitors before Charlie Strutton settled the match.

Again, Woking had missed several opportunities

created. Those points proved crucial as Maidenhead stayed up by one point, thanks partly to Darlington being demoted, sending Hampton & Richmond down. The return match in Berkshire in mid-April was the game where Woking sealed the title. The Cards fans outnumbered the home fans as they saw Gez Sole score a rebound, after his initial spot kick had been saved, he had scored for a club record breaking ninth-consecutive match. The match was ‘not a classic’ but the Cards held out and a pitch invasion greeted the final whistle. Gez Sole went on to score in the final two league games as well to further extend his goal scoring record.

Maidenhead survived by a single point again the following season and continued to struggle until a vast improvement in 2015/16, when Alan Devonshire was reappointed manager following a break of twelve years. That season the clubs met in the FA Cup for the third time, this time in the 4th Qualifying Round, again at York Road. Woking had lost four of their previous six matches and both club’s league form was replicated in this cup match as the Magpies ran out 3-0 winners, including a goal from Dave Tarpey, and went on to draw away to Port Vale in the first round, losing the replay at home.

Ample revenge was gained that same season in the FA Trophy 2nd Round at Kingfield, in January 2016. Tarpey gave the visitors a half-time lead, then an incredible second half saw Woking saw six goals without reply, including a thirty yard ‘pearler’ from the unlikely Chris Arthur, quite a turnaround.

NATIONAL LEAGUE YEARS In 2017 Maidenhead won the National League South title with 98 points, one more than Woking had achieved five years earlier, to reach the top level of the non-league game for the first time.

The clubs met in the 2017/18 National League at Kingfield in November, just as Woking’s league form was beginning to stall after a good start in Anthony Limbrick’s only season in charge. A 1-1 draw was played out, Adrian Clifton and Charlie Carter with the first half goals. One month later the clubs were drawn together in the FA Trophy 1st Round at the same venue. A second half goal from Moses Emmanuel gave the visitors the lead, before Jake Hyde dispossessed Richard Orlu and scored in the last minute to complete a 0-2 victory.

The return league game took place in April, with only four matches remaining. Maidenhead were safe in mid-table, but Woking were plummeting after only picking up three points in ten league games. Two wins were required from the final four games to ensure safety and Limbrick had been sacked a week earlier. In a nervy encounter, Woking took the lead, through Jonathan Edwards, with fourteen minutes remaining to give the Cards fans real hope of survival. Then, true to form, Woking pressed the self-destruct button, defending ever more deeply, they invited incessant pressure and with nine minutes remaining Adrian Clifton, who had just come on, equalised. A point would help Woking’s cause but a sucker punch from Sean Marks in the 88th minute saw the Magpies steal the points. Two further defeats meant that Woking were relegated for the second time from the top tier.

Woking bounced back at the first attempt via the play-offs, and Maidenhead finished ten points above the drop. Therefore, the clubs league duel resumed in 2019/20 with an opening encounter at York Road in November, live on BT. By now Dave Tarpey and Jake Hyde had swapped sides and were instrumental as Woking dominated. Moussa Diarra and Jamar Loza gave Woking a two-goal half time lead. Devonshire’s changes led to a Maidenhead improvement and substitute Danny Whitehall reduced the deficit on the hour, before ‘the law of the ex’ meant that Hyde poked home Woking’s third. Whitehall reduced the arrears again with five minutes remaining but this time the Cards comfortably saw the game out to climb to seventh place in the league, The Magpies were five points above the drop zone in a very tight division.

At Kingfield in February, two out of form sides met.

Despite four games without a win, Woking kept their play-off hopes alive with a victory. Ex-England international Matt Jarvis came on as substitute and scored with his first touch on his debut, the other substitute, Jake Hyde claimed the second goal.

Maidenhead lost their last five league games but were saved from relegation, in a curtailed season, on goal difference from Ebbsfleet.

For 2020/21 season, Shaun Donnellan and Manny Parry were tempted away from Surrey to Berkshire, as Woking cut their budget for a season

wokingfc.co.uk

29

without fans. A forgettable goalless meeting was in keeping with a forgettable season, before the Magpies contributed to a dismal April for the Cards.

Maidenhead’s home win was Woking’s sixth defeat in seven games, as they finished two points off the bottom in a season without relegation.

With new funding from their American investors, it was Woking’s turn to raid Maidenhead for the 2021/22 season, poaching midfielder Rohan Ince.

Kane Ferdinand was allowed to go the other way.

The BT cameras were again at York Road, and again saw a five-goal thriller. However, this time the home side prevailed after twice coming from behind, to win with a last-minute goal after Woking were reduced to ten-men. Revenge was gained at Kingfield in March, as a last-minute Nicke Kabamba goal settled another forgettable match, to lift the hosts above their visitors in the table. This was the first home game following the dismissal of Manager Alan Dowson. Despite the extra funding, another disappointing season had left the Board looking for a new direction.

New Manager Darren Sarll’s side were still inconsistent in mid-September ‘22 when they visited York Road. The sombre mood following the death of Queen Elizabeth II was not improved by a very disappointing one goal defeat. The return game in March saw a Woking side on their way to the playoffs comfortably defeat a Maidenhead team that would only narrowly avoid relegation. The 2-0 victory earnt with goals from Amond and Wilkinson. The game at Maidenhead earlier this season somehow ended 0-0, with the inconsistencies that have plagued both teams much in evidence.

PLAYERS & MANAGERS THAT HAVE REPRESENTED BOTH CLUBS: Dave Alexander, Laurence Batty, Sam Beasant, Mark Biggins, Dale Binns, Danny Bolt, Dereck Brown, Lance Cadogan, Brian Caterer, Graham Cooper, Shaun Donnellan, Moses Emmanuel/Ademola, Craig Faulconbridge, Eurshall Fearon, Kane Ferdinand, Mark Franks, Jake Hyde, Rohan Ince, Eggie James, Colin Lippiatt, Jefferson Louis, Stewart Mitchell, Paul Mulvaney, Brendan O’Sullivan, Manny Parry, Bradley Quamina, Dave Tarpey, Ken Turner, Alex Wall, Stuart Walton, Charlie Wassmer, Manny Williams

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Previous Meetings 1931/32

Maidenhead 4 Woking 0

1966/67

Woking 0 Maidenhead 0 Maidenhead 2 Woking 0

1967/68

Woking 1 Maidenhead 2 Maidenhead 0 Woking 3

1972/73

Maidenhead 0 Woking 1

1976/77

Maidenhead 0 Woking 6

1983/84

Woking 2 Maidenhead 1 Maidenhead 3 Woking 3

1984/85

Woking 0 Maidenhead 2 Maidenhead 0 Woking 1

1985/86

Woking 4 Maidenhead 5

2009/10

Woking 1 Maidenhead 1 Maidenhead 1 Woking 2

2010/11

Woking 0 Maidenhead 2 Maidenhead 0 Woking 1

2011/12

Maidenhead 4 Woking 1 Woking 0 Maidenhead 2 Maidenhead 0 Woking 1

2015/16

Woking 6 Maidenhead 1 Maidenhead 3 Woking 0

2017/18

Woking 1 Maidenhead 1 Maidenhead 2 Woking 1

2017/18

Woking 0 Maidenhead 2

2019/20

Woking 2 Maidenhead 0 Maidenhead 2 Woking 3

2020/21

Woking 0 Maidenhead 0 Maidenhead 2 Woking 1

2021/22

Woking 1 Maidenhead 0 Maidenhead 3 Woking 2

2022/23

Woking 2 Maidenhead 0 Maidenhead 1 Woking 0

2023/24

Maidenhead 0 Woking 0

WOKING FC

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HIDDEN DISABILITY INITIATIVE

SUNFloWER laNYARDS

W

oking Football Club is proud to announce the launch of a hidden disability initiative for matchdays at the Laithwaite Community Stadium.

There will be a stall within the Fan Zone at this Saturday's fixture against Solihull Moors for supporters to access further information about the programme, raise awareness, and ask any questions.

Globally, one in six of us live with a disability.

Whilst some disabilities are visible, many have non-visible disabilities that are not immediately apparent to others; the most widely known being Dementia or Alzheimer’s.

The Cards Trust has kindly provided 100 sunflower lanyards that will be made available free of charge to any supporters or their carers that request one, to help encourage inclusivity, acceptance and understanding. The lanyards will first be available within the Fan Zone and then from the club shop and reception.

Without a visual cue, it can be difficult for others to identify, acknowledge, or understand the daily barriers faced by people living with an invisible disability. For some people, this can make it hard to understand and believe that someone with a non-visible disability or condition genuinely needs support.

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A sunflower suggests happiness, positivity, and strength as well as growth and confidence. The lanyards are universally known and supporters will already be aware of their promotion at airports, railway stations, shopping centres and more.

DATE

OPPONENT

AUGUST Sat Aug 05 Sat Aug 12 Tue Aug 15 Sat Aug 19 Sat Aug 26 Mon Aug 28

Kidderminster Harriers Altrincham Rochdale Barnet Gateshead Dorking Wanderers

SEPTEMBER Sat Sept 02 Sat Sept 09 Sat Sept 16 Tue Sept 19 Sat Sept 23 Tue Sept 26 Sat Sept 30

Maidenhead United Solihull Moors Hartlepool United Ebbsfleet United York City Wealdstone AFC Fylde

FIXTURES & RESULTS 2023/24

RESULT

0-0 2-3 3-2 2-0 1-3 2-0

0-0 1-1 0-2 1-1 1-2 0-1 2-0

APPEARANCES

PL

GLS

A

TUNJI AKINOLA

20(4)

2(0)

2

PADRAIG AMOND

23(4)

6(0)

5

JERMAINE ANDERSON

3(2)

0(0)

0

ALEXIS ANDRE JR.

3(0)

0(0)

0

NANA BOATENG

2(6)

0(0)

2

ZAK BRADSHAW

16(3)

1(0)

1

RHYS BROWNE

11(2)

3(0)

1

JOSH CASEY

22(0)

0(0)

1

SCOTT CUTHBERT

23(0)

2(0)

1

7(7)

6(2)

0

4(4)

0(0)

0

13(2)

0(0)

1

22(0)

0(0)

1

16(0)

2(1)

1

6(2)

4(0)

2

13(4)

3(0)

2

27(0)

0(0)

0

7(1)

0(0)

0

2(0)

1(0)

0

3(0)

0(0)

0

6(3)

0(0)

0

CHARLIE WAKEFIELD

16(7)

0(0)

1

LUKE WILKINSON

3(5)

0(0)

0

MORGAN WILLIAMS

8(3)

0(0)

0

REECE GREGO-COX

OCTOBER Tue Oct 03 Sat Oct 07 Sat Oct 14 Tue Oct 17 Sat Oct 21 Tue Oct 24 Sat Oct 28

FC Halifax Town Southend United Hemel Hempstead (FAC) Hemel Hempstead (FAC) Dagenham & Redbridge Eastleigh Bromley

NOVEMBER Sat Nov 04 Ramsgate (FAC) Sat Nov 11 Oxford City Sat Nov 18 Oldham Athletic Tue Nov 21 Chesterfield Sat Nov 25 Boreham Wood DECEMBER Sat Dec 02 Sat Dec 09 Sat Dec 16 Sat Dec 23 Tue Dec 26

Gateshead Weston-super-Mare (FAT R3) Dorking Wanderers Maidenhead United Aldershot Town

JANUARY Mon Jan 01 Aldershot Town Sat Jan 06 Solihull Moors Sat Jan 20 Oxford City Tue Jan 23 Chesterfield Sat Jan 27 Oldham Athletic FEBRUARY Sat Feb 03 Sat Feb 10 Sat Feb 17 Tue Feb 20 Sat Feb 24 MARCH Sat Mar 02 Sat Mar 09 Tue Mar 12 Sat Mar 16 Sat Mar 23 Fri Mar 29

Boreham Wood Hartlepool United FC Halifax Town Ebbsfleet United Wealdstone

Kidderminster Harriers Altrincham Rochdale Barnet Southend United Eastleigh

APRIL Mon Apr 01 Bromley Sat Apr 06 Dagenham & Redbridge Sat Apr 13 York City Sat Apr 20 AFC Fylde

SAM HABERGHAM

1-2 2-0 0-0 2-0 2-1 0-1 0-1

ROHAN INCE WILL JAASKELAINEN JIM KELLERMANN RICKY KORBOA DENNON LEWIS DAN MOSS TIMI ODUSINA PAUL OSEW

2-1 3-2 0-1 0-2 4-2

MANNY OYELEKE ALFIE PAVEY GREG TAYLOR

P-P 3-2 1-2

LEAGUE TABLE TEAM

P

W

D

L

1

CHESTERFIELD

22

18

2

2

Pts 56

2

BROMLEY

24

14

6

4

48 43

3

BARNET

23

13

4

6

4

ALTRINCHAM

22

10

8

4

38

5

SOLIHULL MOORS

23

10

7

6

37

6

GATESHEAD

22

10

6

6

36

7

ALDERSHOT TOWN

23

11

3

9

36

8

FC HALIFAX TOWN

23

9

8

6

35

9

ROCHDALE

24

9

7

8

34

10

OLDHAM ATHLETIC

23

8

9

6

33

11

EASTLEIGH

23

9

6

8

33

12

MAIDENHEAD UNITED

24

7

9

8

30

13

WEALDSTONE

22

8

5

9

29

14

BOREHAM WOOD

23

6

9

8

27

15

HARTLEPOOL UNITED

23

8

3

12

27

16

SOUTHEND UNITED

22

10

5

7

25

17

WOKING

23

7

4

12

25

18

DAG & RED

23

7

4

12

25

19

DORKING WANDERERS

22

7

4

11

25

20

YORK CITY

23

5

9

9

24

21

EBBSFLEET UNITED

24

6

5

13

23

22

OXFORD CITY

24

5

6

13

21

23

KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS

24

4

7

13

19

24

AFC FYLDE

23

4

6

13

18

wokingfc.co.uk

39

40

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ABOUT The Cards Trust (Cardinals Supporters Society) has worked with the Club to represent fans for more than a decade. The Trust is a shareholder of the Club (and owns around a quarter of it) and has a representative on the Board to put forward the fans’ views.

ordinates the activities of volunteers. Please get in touch if you would like to help on match days.

JUNIOR CARDS A scheme with a range of activities for under 16s including stadium tours and competitions.

MEMBERSHIP Supporters can join The Cards Trust for just £10 per year. Information about joining is on the Trust website.

PLAYER AWARD VOTES The Fans’ Player of the Month and Player of the Season polls are conducted by the Trust.

BOOST THE BUDGET An initiative to help the Club’s playing budget with regular contributions. More than £200,000 has gone to the Club throughout the scheme.

AWAY MATCH TRAVEL The Cards Trust arranges coach travel to away matches for supporters at the lowest cost possible. If you are an advertiser that would like to sponsor the travel, please get in touch.

THE 400 CLUB A prize draw with twelve draws per year. Around £20,000 has been given to support the Club and more than £12,000 in prizes.

GOLDRUSH The prize draw that gives back 50% to the lucky winner with a draw at half-time on matchday, with a minimum stake of just £1. The prizes have recently been around £400 and the winning number is announced and displayed on the digital screen at half-time.

SOCIAL EVENTS AND VOLUNTEERING The Trust also organises social events and co-

Details of all coaches are available on the Trust website, where tickets can be booked online, usually up to 23:00 on the day before the match.

Members and Junior Cards get discounted away match travel.

SUPPORTERS’ LIAISON GROUP The SLG consults with fans (both Trust members and non-members) and the Club to improve the fan experience. Real change has been made based on ideas from the group including the successful Turner's Tannoy appeal which has financed the recent upgrade in the PA at the stadium.

UPCOMING AWAY COACH TRAVEL

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THE CARDS TRUST

THIS WEEK'S UPDATES The Cards Trust are running coaches to all matches up until the end of 2023.

Remember, members and Junior Cards save money on bookings with their membership!

SUPPORTERS COACHES Aldershot Town - Boxing Day Spaces still available for the trip to Aldershot but selling well, don't delay. Available here Solihull Moors - 6th January Seats available to purchase here OTHER COACHES All coaches for the remainder of the season are available to book here All travel with the Cards Trust is subject to the Cards Trust Travel Policy which is informed by legal and other restrictions. e.g. no alcohol is allowed on coaches. The policy can be viewed online on the website.

Any queries should be sent to adam.bowyer@cardstrust.co.uk BOOST THE BUDGET Congratulations to the two Boost the Budget donors who have won places in the Geoff Chapple Lounge for today's match.

Thank-you to everyone who supports BTB either by way if monthly contributions or one off donations.

You can take part online https://www.cardstrust. co.uk/boost-the-budget-2/ or get a form from the Trust office on a match day. All monies raised go towards supporting Woking FC.

400 CLUB The 400 Club had its November draw on Monday 27th. The winners were: £100 £75 £50

Number 104 Number 34 Number 114

Stephen Carter Don Irwin Roger Sherlock

The big £500 Christmas Draw will take place soon - it's not too late to take part. Contact john. hooker@cardstrust.co.uk to take part or get additional numbers.

QUIZ NIGHT We had a very successful Quiz Night that raised over £650 and was enjoyed by all that took part.

Thanks to John, Mark and all those that helped to make it successful.

GOLDRUSH Today’s Goldrush will be a hybrid of online and ‘at the ground’ sales.

JUNIOR CARDS BIRTHDAYS Ed Jackman - 23rd December - 11 years old Ivy Greenwood - 31st December - 5 years old Junior Cards Christmas Party Sunday December 10th, 15:00-17:00 in the Cardinals Bar Book your free tickets here: Junior Cards’ Christmas Party – The Cards Trustw

wokingfc.co.uk

43

CARRYING YOUR TEAM TO SUCCESS

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Matchday Mascots

LUKE BAKER, AGED 12

JOSEPH HOOKHAM, AGED 8

ELLIOT STOKER, AGED 13

Luke loves to play and watch

(turning 9 on Boxing Day)

Elliot is a passionate Woking

football, he supports West Ham

Joseph has been cheering on

supporter and loves watching the

and obviously Woking. He plays for

the Cards since, aged just five,

Cards – especially when they win!

Mytchett Athletics U13 Eagles where

he watched their 2019 promotion

Enjoys a muddy kick about in the

his preferred position is right wing,

triumph. His favourite players are

park and PS4 games (Fortnite of

where he can find space and assist.

Josh Casey and Scott Cuthbert.

course!) & is a pretty decent chef in the kitchen – his egg fried rice is

Luke likes to play FIFA and Fortnite

Joseph's most cherished memory at

with his friends. His favourite players

the Kingfield is last year's Family Fun

a family favourite! He has lots of

for Woking are Jim Kellermann &

Day when his team - the Burpham

favourite players for Woking but the

Josh Casey & for West Ham is Jarrod

Juniors Cobras - won the Under 8

top of the list is Reece Grego-Cox.

Bowen.

tournament.

JAX WOODLEY AND FRIENDS MAX MENDIS, ZAC PAVLI, LEO PAVLI, ABEL TRAFFORD, ANTONIO SCHIAVO

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45

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WOMEN'S REPORT

CARDS IN GOALLESS DRAW TO END THE YEAR

W

oking were held to another draw against Bournemouth Sports Reserves in the space of just under a month, in a goalless affair at Woking College. Neither team was able to break the deadlock, although it was the home side who would have left feeling as though they deserved more.

It was a very slow start to the game, with neither team able to hold onto the ball for long periods.

That final pass was lacking for both teams and no real threats were caused on either goalkeeper.

to report. These changes saw Sian, Sheena, Trudy and Gaby swap with Trudy, Bianca, Charlotte and Laura Mitchell.

Two final opportunities for Woking to take the lead came in the last five minutes of the game when Gaby tested the ‘keeper with a low drive to win her team a corner. That resulting set-piece found Kaitlin but her effort was remarkably saved by the Bournemouth goalkeeper, whose outstretched hand managed to tip the ball past the post.

The Cards made two substitutions, seven minutes apart during the first 45 minutes, with Trudy BryanKerr and Ellie Boddy, replacing Sian Hardaker and Charlotte Keenan.

Fran came back on in the 86th minute, replacing Sophie and in the next phase of play, the visitors nearly completed a smash-and-grab as they caught Woking sleeping at the back, however, they weren’t able to convert the golden opportunity.

It took half an hour for the first shot on target to be registered and this fell to Kaitlin Howard on the lefthand side of the box, but her effort was well saved.

Efro also came back onto the pitch, changing with Sian in the host's final substitution, but the game ultimately finished as it started.

The only other main talking point from the first half was when Bianca Underhill found Helen Ogle with a great delivery on the right, but the formers header was caught by the ‘keeper.

FT: Woking 0-0 Bournemouth Sports Reserves.

HT: Woking 0-0 Bournemouth Sports Reserves During the break, the hosts made four changes seeing Gracie Price, Sophie Burgess, Alicia Christie and Charlotte all replace Sheena Nichol, Efrosyni Theocharous, Gaby Hobday and Frances Cotter.

Helen had another headed effort in the second half and this time it went over the crossbar. It came from a brilliant solo run from Kaitlin down the righthand side, something she is no imposter too Three more substitutions followed in a 15-minute period were once again there wasn’t much action

Some may see the two games against Bournemouth as four points dropped, while others will see two valuable points gained plus a third clean sheet of the season. Whichever way you look at it, the Cards extend their unbeaten run in the league to seven games and will look to continue that in the new year.

Woking Starting XI: Jenkins, Hobday (46) (75), Cotter (46) (86), Mitchell (75), Underhill (65), Hardaker (24) (60) (90), Theocharous (46) (90), Nichol (46) (65), Ogle, Keenan (31) (46) (75), Howard © Subs: Christie (46), Bryan-Kerr (24) (60) (75), Boddy (31), Burgess (46) (86), Price (46) Attendance: 37 Player of the Match: Kaitlin Howard

wokingfc.co.uk

47

AcaDEMY T

Notable academy graduates in recent history include Woking legends Craig Ross and Joe McNerney, Wrexham's Ollie Palmer, and exChelsea and now-Reading's Jayden Wareham.

For the 2023/24 season, the youth and academy setup runs in three stages; a pre-academy for six to nine-year-olds, a youth academy for nine to 16-year-olds, and a full-time academy for talented young players above the age of 16, including an education plan.

PRE-ACADEMY The Pre-Academy is for the very youngest players, covering U7s, U8s and U9s. Meeting once a week, players train and learn in a fun and friendly environment under the watchful eye of our coaches. Players that show real talent have the opportunity to progress to Woking FC Academy Youth.

he Woking FC Academy has been operating in its current format for over a decade with the aim of helping talented young footballers make progress into the club's first team set up or in their sporting careers whilst continuing with their academic studies.

The Academy works with the Football Club's partner charitable and community organisation, Cardinals in the Community (CITC).

48

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The Pre-Academy trains at The Winston Churchill School in Woking, Thursdays, 17:00 - 18:00.

YOUTH ACADEMY Starting with U9s and progressing through the age groups right up to U16s, players train with our Academy coaches and have the opportunity to play competitively in the Junior Premier League.

Training is held twice weekly at CITC’s sports hub, within the grounds of Woking College, and matches are played on Saturdays. At this level, players are able to continue playing for their grassroots clubs.

As with the main Academy, players receive a progress report twice per season, which helps identify areas of their game to work on and improve. U16s players are assessed throughout the season with a view to being invited to join Woking FC Academy.

WOKING FC ACADEMY Woking FC Academy is a National League licensed academy. We aim to develop each and every player to reach their full potential, instilling ambition and a professional attitude. We work as closely as possible to Category 3 Academy standards, creating a professional environment in which players thrive.

Players train 5-6 hours per week at CITC’s sports hub. Their development is supported by video analysis of training and matches, group workshops and strength and conditioning sessions. One-to-one reviews are held twice every season, along with player reports so that both the coaching staff and the players themselves have a clear focus on individual development.

choose to attend Woking College or focus on gaining the NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, which is delivered by SCL Education at Westfield FC. Players on the EDP pathway study towards the NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (equivalent to 3 A levels) with SCL. AGE GROUP COMPETITIONS Under 23s - Second and third years (and progressing first years) Play in: Suburban Football League - Premier Division Home games: Knaphill FC, Thursdays, 19:30 Under 19s - Second and third years (and progressing first years) National League U19 Alliance - Academy South Division Home games: Westfield FC, weekdays, daytime Under 19B - predominantly U17s - first years National League U19 Alliance - Division E Woking College, weekdays, daytime Under 18s - predominantly U17s - first years Pitching In Isthmian Football League - Youth West Division Knaphill FC, Thursdays, 19:30 Players will also have the chance to represent the academy in the prestigious FA Youth Cup.

Woking FC Academy plays competitive matches in the U18 Isthmian League, U19 National League and also have the opportunity to play in U23 fixtures. Players in our Elite Development Plan (EDP) compete in the Tactic League and National B League. Cup competitions are a feature of the fixture calendar. Pre-season training includes friendlies and there are opportunities to travel abroad for football tours and tournaments, including the Gothia Cup. Our football timetable is planned in conjunction with players’ education. Academy players can

wokingfc.co.uk

49

AcaDEMY BULLETIN cARDS OUT OF AcaDEMY CUP

Academy Bulletin as at 22nd December Upcoming Fixtures in January 2024 MONDAY 8TH JANUARY 19.45 - Leatherhead U18 v Woking U18, Isthmian Youth League Cup, Quarter-Final River Lane, Leatherhead WEDNESDAY 10TH JANUARY 14.00 - Woking U19 v Oxford City U19, National League U19 Alliance – Academy South Division Westfield FC, Woking Park THURSDAY 11TH JANUARY 19.30 - Woking U23 v Flackwell Heath U23, Michael Bidmead Challenge (League) Cup, 1st Round Knaphill FC, Redding Way MATCH REPORT Week commencing 18th December 21st December, Woking U18 4 - 3 Bedfont Sports U18 Isthmian Football League, Youth West Division Knaphill FC, Redding Way

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With Camberley having won at Uxbridge on Monday evening this was a game Woking needed to win to maintain their lead at the top of the league table. As Bedfont themselves were not out of the title picture, and Woking had lost their previous two home games, a difficult game looked likely.

The early exchanges suggested that this game would not match Woking’s 7-4 victory at Bedfont earlier in the season, but there was much drama to follow. Starting with a back four, Woking took the game to Bedfont, and it looked like it may be a more straightforward evening after all.

Woking had the upper hand, with Tom Dryer on the left-wing particularly troubling his opponents.

It took until the 26th minute for Woking to establish a lead, an excellent cross in from Liam Manby on the right headed past Leo Davis from six yards by Byron Mitchell.

Bedfont were calling Mikey Verga in the Woking goal (in place of the injured Harry White) in to action, but were not keeping the ball as much as their coach would have liked, and escaped being 2-0 down when Byron Mitchell looked up from tapping home from close range to see the linesman’s flag already up for offside.

However, Bedfont were coming back into the game, on 37 minutes Verga was forced in to a good save, and on 43 minutes Woking escaped a goalmouth scramble with Jake Hewitt not able to get a clear shot and only hitting the side netting.

Woking were further disrupted by centre-back Aidy Silverstein needing to be replaced as his right knee troubled him, and the switch to a back three unfortunately didn’t see Woking through to halftime. Kieran Collins took advantage of Woking’s enforced change, a fine individual goal, dribbling through the defence before his firm low shot from 15 yards gave Verga no chance.

be seeing the game out until, on 88 minutes, a fine individual goal from Dryer, cutting across the edge of the area and hitting the bottom corner.

Seale now found himself sent-off for what the referee considered to be a second bookable offence, but Woking continued to press for a winner, although it looked like the chance may have gone when Brook shot over on 90 minutes.

Half-time: Woking 1 - 1 Bedfont Sports

In the third minute of added time Woking had the winning goal. Dryer’s shot was blocked and the rebound fell to Brook, who gleefully guided the ball home. There was still time for a nervous scramble in the Woking box but the Cards saw out the victory.

Woking reorganised at half-time, reverting to a back four, but Bedfont had the lead before Woking could settle. A scrappy goal, with Oscar Kruczkiewicz able to tap into an open goal from six yards.

The joy of the victory, under demanding circumstances, was a fitting end to Scott Harrison’s eight years as Academy manager, and we wish him all the best as he takes up his new role at Wimbledon in the new year.

But Woking were soon gaining good momentum, Ellis Byrne shooting over after excellent build-up play from Manby and Mitchell, and Alvaro Picon getting forward well from right full-back.

Woking: Mikey Verga; Liam Manby, Harrison Wood, Aidy Silverstein (Alvaro Picon 44), Jacob Farr; Louis Pask, Tommy Seale, Ellis Byrne ©, Tom Dryer; Lucas Boxall (Harvey Brook 81), Byron Mitchell (Jack Bashford 72). Unused sub: Bob Honey (GK).

On 66 minutes the equaliser came, a defence splitting pass from Tommy Seale finding Tom Dryer who finished with aplomb, firing the ball across Davis in to the far corner.

A minute later Seale was booked, although he himself was not sure why, but Woking looked to have the upper-hand as the game progressed, until what looked like it might be the decisive goal on 80 minutes. Woking did not challenge strongly enough to stop a Bedfont move, and Jude Jakes McKay, from an angle that looked to be against him, struck a great shot in to the top corner from the edge of the area.

Woking responded by bringing on Harvey Brook, and there was still time for him to strike what proved to be the decisive blow. Bedfont looked to

Goals: Mitchell 26, Dryer 66, 88, Brook 90+3.

Bedfont Sports: Leo Davis, Jake Hewitt, Kieran Collins, Archie Gower, Aryan Soni, Dan Mackinney, Niall O’Shea, Jude Jakes McKay, Jake Beck-Nardoni, Oscar Kruczkiewicz, Rewan Alyasi. Subs: Joe Wells, Callahan Keadell, Emon Masoudy.

Goals: Collins 45+3, Kruczkiewicz 50, Jude Jakes McKay 80.

For up-to-date information on fixtures refer to the Woking Football Club Academy twitter page, and the weekly post on cardsboard.co.uk

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