HUFC vs VCD Athletic FC - ILSE

Oscar Chalmers Elliott

- Age 6

Favourite TeamManchester United

Favourite Hastings Utd PlayerTom Chalmers (Oscar’s Cousin)

Ralph Chalmers Elliott

- Age 10

Favourite TeamManchester United

Favourite Hastings Utd PlayerTom Chalmers (Ralph’s Cousin)

Henry Brookshaw - Age 11

Favourite TeamLiverpool

Favourite Hastings Utd PlayerSam Hasler

Elleana-Rose Stack

- Age 5

Favourite TeamsHastings United & Spurs

Favourite Hastings Utd PlayersFinn O’Mara & Sam Adams

Dylan-James Stack

- Age 8

Favourite TeamsHastings United & Spurs

Favourite Hastings Utd PlayerLouis Rogers

Freddie Salmons - Age 6

Favourite TeamWest Ham United

Favourite PlayerDeclan Rice

Billy Wood Welcome

It’s CHAMPIONS DAY and I tell you, it feels a long time coming!

Before I get into it I would like to welcome the officials, management, staff, players and supporters of VCD Athletic today to The Continental Pilot Field.

So last Saturday we clinched it, in probably the worst football match of the season but who cared when that final whistle went? Not me that’s for sure!

I want to congratulate the players and staff on what has been a huge achievement to get this done, the new players who have come in have been such a positive influence to the place and complimented the amazing core we have, seeing how much it means to them all will live with me forever and what a night it was afterwards!

A special note to Gary, Browny and Meeno - as a trio you have taken on the challenge like no one expected outside of this club, the turnaround in points is sensational and it’s a pleasure working with you. Gary’s leadership has been phenomenal and I’m proud to be this team’s biggest cheerleader.

When I came in September 2019 there was unease on what I would mean for this club, I just want to say thank you to each and everyone who has supported me to this point.

Club CEO/Chairman

Daren and Peter have backed all I’ve wanted to do and the board didn’t question any moves I’ve made for the betterment of this club. That unwavering support has extended to the supporters; I am so proud to represent you all and today is for you. This town should celebrate what’s great about it and you all show such passion for Hastings, which has made our fan base grow significantly in the last couple of years.

Thank you to you all, if I name you I will miss someone out and be the villain but you know how much I think of you all. A big thank you to the volunteers, the contributors to socials, programme, website and all! Let’s not forget the fans we’ve lost over the past couple of years too, this title celebration is for them (yes Windy I’ll be thinking of your dad today).

Welcome back home Bill Farnfield who is a much loved ex ‘U’s keeper who is visiting today. History is just as important to embrace to create a bigger and better future for us all. Today we do it all together.

Let’s be loud, proud and show why we are HASTINGS!

COYU ... Billy Billy Wood HUFC Chairman / Chief Executive Officer

Photo: Scott White Photography

Afternoon and a warm welcome to today’s fixture against

VCD Athletic FC.

VCD have performed admirably this season and within their ranks have some very good players, it should make for an entertaining game.

It’s great to be able to celebrate winning the league title at our home ground today.

I would like to thank the board for their support, they’ve been great since I’ve been appointed and couldn’t have worked for better people.

You the fans have been phenomenal, I love the link between the players and yourselves, and when there’s that harmony it usually points to success. Also a big shout out to the volunteers as well, you play a major part within the running of our football club and that should never be overlooked.

Lastly and most importantly I would like to thank my players and staff. It’s been 3 years in the waiting, but to keep going the way you have done is incredible. You’re a fantastic group that shows consistency and a great work rate each week. But most importantly you are all good human beings. It’s a privilege to be your manager.

Enjoy the celebrations!

Onwards and upwards!

Gary Gary Elphick HUFC First Team Manager

The Gaffer

Gary Elphick

MATCH MASCOTS

Photo: Scott White Photography

Stanley Elphick

Teddy Elphick

DIRECTORS, MANAGEMENT

CLUB DETAILS

Co Name: Hastings United Football Club Limited

Continental Pilot Field Elphinstone Rd Hastings TN34 2AX

Private Limited Company: Incorporated 24/9/1997 Company Registration Number: 03441850

Registered office address: 36 Cambridge Road Hastings East Sussex TN341DU

Ownership - Major shareholders:

Bohemia Hastings LLP - 95.27%Daren Burney & Peter Sherlock 100% controlling party

DIRECTORS & SECRETARY

Chairman / CEO / Director Billy Wood

Vice Chairman / Director Pat McCrossan

Director Hayley Clout

Director Craig Barrow

Director Ross Shewry-Maryan

Director Peter Sherlock

Non-Executive Director Daren Burney

Company Secretary Dane Martin

CLUB PRESIDENT

Dave Ormerod

Telephone 01424 444635 Email club@hastingsunited.com Website www.hastingsunited.com

MEMBERS OF

Pitching In Isthmian Football League

Sussex County Football Association

LIFE MEMBERS

Les BrittonPeter EastmanDavid Harding David NesslingDave OrmerodCharles Pilbeam Tony Cosens

VICE PRESIDENTS

C BarrowJ DowntonA Keen

OFFICIALS

Club Secretary Dane Martin

Commercial Director Hayley Clout

Programme Editor Paul Hoggard

Press Officer Billy Wood

Public Address/Matchday Media Team: Eddie DenyerPat McCrossan Nick Clarke Adam Smith (Twitter) Adam Carder (Radio)

Matchday Liaison Officer Steph McCrossan

1st Team Photographer (M & W ) Scott White

1st Team Videographer (M & W ) Joseph Knight

U23/U18 Photographer Joe Knight

Health & Safety Officer David Russell

Deputy Safety Officer Greg Agathocli

Club Shop Managers Ged Clout & Sue Gallop

Pilot Bar Manager Dane Martin

Kit/Laundry Manager Sue Cornelius

Head Groundsman Simon Rudkins

FOOTBALL MANAGEMENT

Director of Football

FIRST TEAM MANAGEMENT & STAFF

Dean White

First Team Manager Gary Elphick Assistant Manager Andrew Brown

First Team Coach

Jon Meeney Coach

Peter Heritage GK Coach / Opposition Scout Ben Cornelius

Kit Coordinator/Matchday Physio Dane Martin

Sports Therapist / Physio Paige Wise

Performance Analyst James McCrossan

U23 DEVELOPMENT SQUAD MANAGEMENT U23 Manager Andrew Brown

U18 SQUAD MANAGEMENT U18 Manager Ben Cornelius

ACADEMY

Coaching Partner Skiltek Education Scheme Partner East Sussex College Hastings Head of Academy

Senior Development Phase Lead Andrew Brown

Management Group Craig Barrow, Andrew Brown, Sean Ray

Welfare

Roger Bond / Louise Chalmers

Administration Roger Bond Discipline Hannah Smith

Social Media & Press Officer Charmaine Ridgers

Recruitment Andrew Brown, Sean Ray

U16 Manager Bernie Walker

U15 Manager Tony Field

U13 Manager Guiseppe Lombardelli

U11 Manager Russell Small

U10 Manager Neil Cornwell

U9 Manager Sean Ray

U8 Manager Shane Ridgers

U7 Manager Jake Daniels

Good afternoon everyone.

Welcome back to the Continental Pilot Field as we are officially crowded Isthmian League South East Division Champions! Wow that sounds good!

After a few years of hurt and 20 years since the last promotion as Champions we have finally and much deservedly been promoted to compete in the Isthmian League Premier Division next season.

Our dreams came true last Saturday away to Faversham Town where a draw was all we needed. The celebrations at the final whistle and into the evening were very special moments that will stay with me forever. Amazing memories were made with the best people both on and off the pitch and huge congratulations goes to everyone connected to this great Club both past and present.

I would like to welcome and thank our Match Sponsor to today's game Hastings United Independent Supporters Club (H.U.I.S.C) who are all amazing and the best supporters in the League!

They help the club in various ways including raising money and following all our teams to both home and away games. They aim to enhance the enjoyment and connectivity of fans at HUFC matches. This is done with various incentives and

Commercial Director Hayley Clout

events that also happen throughout the year.

To join or for more information please visit their website - www.husupporters.club

We hope you all have a great day with us and thank you all so much for your continued support.

I would also like to welcome and continually thank Bob H who is our Matchball Sponsor for every league game, Bob does so much for the Club and we thank him for his continued support both with the first and the ladies team.

I would finally like to welcome and thank our Mascots to today's game, Stanley, Teddy, Freddie, Oscar, Ralph, Henry, Elleana-Rose and DylanJames

We hope you all enjoy your day with us and the complete matchday experience. Enjoy the game and hopefully 3 points!

Hayley

Record League

Hastings United Louis Rogers

Finn O’Mara

Craig Stone

Tom Chalmers

Danny Parish Jack Dixon

Ben Pope (Sub James Hull 82’)

Sam Adams Sam Hasler

Marcus Goldsmith Knory Scott (Sub Kenny Pogue 86’)

Unused Subs: Ryan Worrall Kane Penn Dave Martin

Haywards Heath Town

Billy Collings

Hamish Morrison Kieran Rowe Ben Holden Tom Cadman Alahady Jalloh (Sub Kesna Clarke 90’)

Jordy Ndozid (Sub Tom Gilbert 90’)

Harry Lafflin

Oliver Allen (Sub Reece Deakin 82’) Davigildo Cravid

Byron Napper

Unused Subs: Tom Graves

Photos: Scott White Photography

Hastings UnitedHaywards Heath Town

9 April Round Up by: Ian Townsend

United are finally promoted ...

We knew that a point at Faversham Town would hand Hastings United the title, but perhaps the nerves were affecting them when Marcus Elliott put the Lilywhites ahead on twenty-two minutes. They drew level just before the break, however, Sam Hasler with the equaliser, soon after Ben Pope had come close, hitting the post. The secondhalf saw no addition to the scoreline, and United can now celebrate that well-deserved promotion. Had the pandemic not happened we suspect they’d have been there two years ago, and it’ll be delightful to see them in the top flight.

Second place Ashford United knew that they could mathematically still catch Hastings, although it would need a collapse of the highest order from our top placed side. The Nuts and Bolts were on the road to relegation scrappers lancing, and went ahead twelve minutes before the break, Jack Richards opening the scoring. They doubled their advantage before half time, Luke Burdon getting the second, but the Lancers made things interesting when Bradley Francis-Campbell got one back seventeen minutes from time. Ashford held on for victory, however, and guaranteed themselves a play off place in the process.

Cray Valley PM, starting the day in third, were on the road to face a much improved but still relegation candidates Sevenoaks Town. Oaks, who had moved to three points above the danger zone, went ahead on eighteen minutes through Yahaya Bamba, and the same player made it two-nil just before the half time whistle blew. Bamba wrapped up the points and a hat trick eight minutes after the break, although the Millers stay third. Oaks are up to fourteenth, have opened up a six point gap on the bottom three, and Harry Hudson will undoubtedly be given the freedom of the town and as much venison as he can eat at the end of the season!

We had a massive match between fifth and fourth as Ramsgate hosted Haywards Heath Town in front of a bumper crowd of eight hundred and sixty three- let in for free. The majority of them would have been stunned when Sinn Christie gave Heath the lead five minutes before half-time, and similarly stunned at the end, as Heath opened up a six point gap over their hosts.

Herne Bay knew that if the Rams lost and they would they would replace their rivals in the top five, but they left it very, very late to take advantage, Aaron Milbank sending the home crowd into raptures with a last minute winner over Chichester City. Bay are, then, up to fifth, two points ahead of the Rams.

Burgess Hill Town welcomed Sittingbourne, with both not quite able to make the play off’s unless a mathematical miracle occurs! The Hillians weren’t very welcoming, Tom Chalaye putting them ahead after just two minutes, but the Brickies drew level twenty three minutes later, Harry Stannard with the equaliser. It was advantage Hillians once more when Hayden Skerry put the hosts ahead just before the break, and the hosts made it three goals and three points when Lewis Finney scored with eighteen minutes remaining. Chalaye added a fourth just before the end.

Corinthian, who have had a fine season, hosted Whitstable Town, the Oysters desperate for points as they looked up at everyone else. Josh James have the home side a sixth minute lead, but the equaliser arrived almost immediately, George Monger drawing Town level. That was that, and Whitstable still have hope.

Whitehawk, under new management, welcomed Hythe Town in a relegation scrap, and the Cannons fired first, Jacob Gilbert giving them the lead after twenty three minutes. They fired second, too, Gilbert doubling his and his sides tally for the afternoon with twenty two minutes left, and the Hawks will be delighted only that three other sides around them didn’t win either.

East Grinstead Town have been desperately short of points of late, but they went ahead against fellow strugglers Phoenix Sports only fifteen minutes from time, Max Welsh opening the scoring. The Wasps held on for the points, and climbed to sixteenth, three points above the play off position and six from automatic relegation.

Two goals in two minutes as we approached half-time gave VCD Athletic a comfortable advantage against Three Bridges, Kevin Lisbie, aged forty three, with the opener and Youseff Bamba with the second, age unknown! Callum Chesworth got one back for the visitors eleven minutes from time, but Anthony Adesite made sure of three points with a third goal for Vickers, right at the end.

favours when scoring the only goal of the game at The Enclosed Ground, Yahaya Bamba scoring his third goal from four games twelve minutes after the break. Six hundred and thirteen watched on. The Hawks are now only one point above their visitors.

Finally, Phoenix Sports and Hythe Town couldn’t manage a goal, a point which leaves Sports five points from safety and the Cannons two points above the relegation play-off place.

Marcus Elliott’s 22nd minute goal looked to have put the bubbly on ice for another week until Sam Hasler scored just before half-time.

Hastings United started the game brightly, however it would be a bit of a miskick between Louis Rogers and Tom Chalmers where the hosts were able to capitalize and score with Marcus Elliott able to slot under the keeper and put Faversham 1-0 up.

After a break in play due to a head injury the ‘U’s found space running towards goal when Ben Pope was brought down. After the referee cleared the players, Sam Hasler slotted the free kick into the bottom right corner of the opposition goal.

After half-time Faversham and United muster few chances and with slick defending the visitors are able to see out the game 1-1 to secure the needed point to become Champions of the Pitching In Isthmian League South East Division.

As the referee blows the final whistle the visiting staff, directors and fans descend on the pitch for the post match celebrations.

CEO Billy Wood shares his elation at the time ... “This is just the start, 3 years in the making and we can’t wait to be in the Premier next season”.

Report By Adam Carder

Saturday 9 April 2022

Isthmian League South East Division

Attendance: 480

Faversham Town

Kei Plumley

Benedict Bioletti (Sub Sia Blackwood 90’)

Charlie Dickens Lewis Chambers

Matt Bourne

Jono Richardson Sam Bewick

Harry Harding

Marcus Elliott (Goal 22’)

Emmanuel Oluwasemo Clark Woodcock (Sub Ethan Smith 72’)

Unused Subs: Alfie Eyles Lewis Neale Calvin Sedenu

CHAMPIONS

Hastings United

Louis Rogers

Finn O’Mara

Craig Stone

Tom Chalmers

Danny Parish

(Sub Dave Martin 82’)

Jack Dixon

Ben Pope

Sam Adams (Sub Kane Penn 57’)

Sam Hasler (Goal 44’)

Marcus Goldsmith

James Hull (Sub Kenny Pogue 46’)

Unused Subs: Ollie Black Ryan Worrall

Photo: Scott White Photography

League South East

Faversham Town Hastings United

Photos: Scott White Photography

Gut Feeling

Simon Stoddart

My waffle and opinions, I don't speak for Hastings United. Personal observations on the world of semi-pro football and sport in general.

SUPERSTITIONS

Hass set pieces won it at Cray Valley and here's his free kick at Faversham

We all have them whatever we do in football. Play, coach, spectate, waffle here in the programme. Mine is never to quote stats until it's all done. Wait till the job's done, then look at the numbers. And the boys, on and off the pitch, did just that a week ago - job got done. A 13 point deficit - in just over 4 months became promotion sealed, 10 points clear with 3 games to go. One hell of an achievement in a very competitive division.

And those other big hitters battling away for that top spot. One of the dodgy aspects of those first 4 months was our poor record against those sidesone lousy point from 5 games. 1 draw, 4 losses. You have to beat the sides around you - and after the defeat at Haywards Heath on 27 November, we were well off par.

UP..........

Ohhhhh what a special afternoon last Saturday at Faversham's Aquatherm stadium. There aren't any easy games in this league, it's hard graft to get that one automatic promotion slot, all the more so when you have to turn things around after a thoroughly wobbly November. We ended that month 13 points adrift of leaders Ashford United, we'd already lost 5 league games and of our previous 7, had lost 4. Throw in Chris Agutter moving on and we were looking at maybe getting a lottery ticket - aka a play off place. The wildest optimists amongst you cannot have envisaged a turn around of the proportions that we've witnessed.

A major part of the turn around was doing much much better in the remaining encounters with those sides. 4 wins and a draw with a huge week in December with successive wins over Herne Bay and Ramsgate. Drop back 20 years to the Hastings Town title winning season - the equivalent week was successive draws at Dorchester and Grantham. Vital to take points off your immediate rivals.

I recall at Corinthian when they equalised - ranting and raving - 'We keep conceding goals'! And we were. But another major part of that turn around was tightening up at the back. The Stone / O'Mara partnership - 21 games, 14 clean sheets, 10 goals conceded. Perfect numbers. Throw in the inconsistencies that our rivals kept coming up withHaywards Heath losing at home to 10 man Phoenix Sports, Faversham beating Herne Bay, Ramsgate falling apart, Cray Valley wobbling like we did in

November, the same for Ashford - and we were getting it right, went top at the end of the year and have stayed there. Sweetest wins of the lot - away to Ashford and Cray Valley. Corinthian here too.

WAFFLE WAFFLE WAFFLE

Back 20 years ago, my Hastings Town rant'n raves were squeezed into the programme by David Bealey. He reminded me a few days ago of a 'Simon's Ramblings' column in the 01-02 Ashford Town programme - the final game of another memorable season. Er, 6 pages it ran to. David wondered what today’s editor-in-chief - one Paul Hoggard would make of that .........

Who's that coming over the hill ........

3,082

Dicko and the boys will get presented with the Isthmian SE championship silverware after today's game. Would've been oh so good to see the league wrapped up with that massive attendance a fortnight ago. Gates are up throughout the semi-pro game this season and even making allowances here for a table topping side - the Pilot Field numbers are exceptional. Talk is of that Haywards Heath gate being exceeded today. Surely not ..........

TILEKILN

There's been plenty said already about the proposals for a new stadium. I put our council on a par with a chocolate teapot on other issues in Hastings let alone the rug being hauled out from under United re Tilekiln. My personal preference has always been for the Pilot Field to be upgraded and I thought the bus was missed years ago when St Leonards called it a day next door. Fort Fun - as many called it - sold for housing and proceeds used to do up the Pilot Field. 1950 capacity for the proposed new stadium, 1900? That'll need revising - wherever United end up. Whatever, we surely haven't heard the last of it.

Can't wait to see this again

PHILIPPINES HERE I COME

All opened up again so my Covid cancelled flight was rebooked weeks ago - for the day after the Play Off Final. Jusssssst in case things didn't pan out - but they did. Night shift Friday, few hours snooze Saturday morning, drive to Faversham, win the league, drive to Crawley for another night shift. That'll do.

WELL DONE SUSSEX

Next season we take Worthing's place in the Isthmian Premier, they could take Eastbourne Borough's spot in National South and VCD Athletic should be playing Littlehampton who are having a season and a half - FA Vase final and promotion. They will take our place in Isthmian SE. Not to forget, popping over the county border, our old favourite from 40 years ago, Ernie Batten who will bring Sheppey United into this division.

South East Division Vita Risk Solutions Manager of the Month Award

Perhaps we should just have pitched a tent, as it seems we’re off back to Hastings United for a second month in a row - and let’s be honest, nobody is surprised, are they? Our Pitching In Isthmian South East Champions won every match during March, with Corinthian, Cray Valley PM, Three Bridges and East Grinstead Town being put to the sword - and conceded only one goal in doing so. Many congratulations to Gary Elphick and his happy band, who will have an even bigger and shinier prize coming their way on Saturday.

We’ve just delivered a managerial prize to Hastings United, and now we’re off to make another delivery. Hastings had a one hundred percent March, during which they conceded only one goal. We almost feel like giving Cray Valley a prize for scoring it - although they got nothing else from the match! Louis Rogers will be receiving a fabulous pair of gloves from Asmir Begovic and his team at AB1 Goalkeeping, and goodness, doesn’t he deserve them, after twenty-two clean sheets so far this season.

South East Division

AB1 Golden Gloves Award

Louis Rogers - Hastings United

Gary Elphick - Hastings United

Photo: Scott White Photography

Text: Ian Townsend

Photo: Scott White Photography

SOUTH EAST DIVISION TABLE 2021/22

# Team

CHASTINGS UNITED 3512231323254676314579

Away

2Ashford United35104311252168734132691-3L1303 2-1W 1134

3Cray Valley PM3594410441988684424651-2L1003 2-1W 286

4Haywards Heath T3510259631988503119650-0D30820-2L412

5Herne Bay 35112575518710563422611-1D949 2-0W 420

6Ramsgate 359369261851270472359 2-0W 10732-3L648

7Burgess Hill Town359547281671252448552-3L1502 3-2W 325

8 Corinthian 356758361410114639752 3-0W 13291-2L127

9Sittingbourne35944639157134743452 2-1W 734 2-1W 349

10VCD Athletic358466471481362481450 2-2 D201

11Chichester City35926468138144538747 2-0W 733 2-0W 318

12Three Bridges355575671011145669-1341 2-0W 1416 2-1W 189

13 Faversham Town359362411117173855-1740 4-0W 9011-1D480

14Sevenoaks Town358194211123204765-1839 4-1W 206

15Hythe Town353410747108173968-2938 3-0W 1102 3-0W 225

16East Grinstead Town35756241199173163-3236 5-0W 801 4-0W 451

17Whitehawk 35468458811163651-1535 2-0W 1214 1-0W 479

18Lancing 3554935989183362-2933 1-0W 2017

19Phoenix Sports353311531086213459-2530 3-1W 734 4-2W 174

20Whitstable Town35449421286213865-2730 4-1W 790 1-0W 455

Photo: Scott White Photography

Substitutes used A,B,C,D,E replaced in brackets Goalscorers in bold

VCD ATHLETIC FC

Club: VCD Athletic Football Club Club Formed: 1916 (as Vickers) Nickname: The Vickers

Chairman: Gary Rump Manager: Nick Davis Ground: The Oakwood, Crayford

VCD Athletic FC is one of only a few clubs to have originated during the Great War when, in 1916 it was formed by workers employed at the Vickers armaments factory in Crayford. The Company originally played only inter-departmental games until it was decided that the best players from the various sections would be elected to represent the firm.

The club have played at the firm's sports ground, Oakwood, in Old Road, Crayford, from the outset right up to the present time, except for eight seasons spent ground sharing whilst trying to get permission for the erection of floodlights.

Isthmian League Division One North Winners: 2013–14

Kent League Premier Division Winners: 2008–09 Runners-up: 2001–02, 2006–07, 2007–08, 2012–13

Kent Premier League Cup Winners: 1999–2000, 2011–12 Runners-up: 1998–99

Kent County League Winners: 1952–53, 1963–64, 1996–97

Kent Senior Trophy Winners: 2005–06, 2008–09 Runners-up: 2001–02

Best League Position: 18th in Isthmian League Premier Division 2014–15

Best FA Cup Performance: 2nd Qualifying Round: 2002–03, 2008–09, 2011–12, 2014–15, 2016–17

Best FA Trophy Performance: 2nd Qualifying Round: 2015–16, 2020–21, 2021–22

Best FA Vase Performance: 5th Round: 2005–06, 2006–07

The first meeting between the clubs took place over sixteen years ago when the sides were drawn together in the F.A. Challenge Cup, a tie we won as follows: Saturday 27August 2005 FA Cup Preliminary Round VCD Athletic FC0 – 2 Hastings United Att 107 Scorers: Ade Olorunda Sean Ray

VCD ATHLETIC FC

Sam Mott Goalkeeper

Highly experienced goalkeeper who joined the club at the start of this season. Has a commanding presence and is good in the air and gives great vocal support to our defenders. A good shot stopper who kicks well and will prove a good asset to the club. Previous experience with Thamesmead Town, Hornchurch, Ashford United and Welling United.

Chris Edwards Defender

A new addition to the squad who signed last season and brings experience and composure to our back line. Has pace getting forward and looks to support our attacking play whilst aware of defensive responsibilities. Has slotted in well and looks to be a good acquisition to the club. Previous experience with Thamesmead Town, Glebe, Sheppey United and Sevenoaks Town.

Ashley Probets Defender/Coach

Began his career at Arsenal where he signed professional forms as a youngster before moving on to Rochdale where he also played as a professional. Has a cultured left foot and good tactical awareness, also bringing calmness to our defence where he is great influence on our younger players. Played for the Vickers early in his nonleague career before having spells with Crawley Town, Welling United, Thamesmead Town and Phoenix Sports.

Theo McKenzie Defender

Made the step up from our Under 18 side this season and has put in some impressive performances. A solid defender with great pace and technical ability who likes to get forward, but is always mindful of his defensive responsibilities. Has not looked out of place and should become an integral part of our squad .It is up to him how far he wants to progress in the game.

Mohammed Oshilaja Defender

Joined the Vickers at the start of last season and made an immediate impression with his pace and composure in defence. Good under pressure and with great aerial ability he will be a valuable asset at the heart of our defence. Previous experience with Dulwich Hamlet, Carshalton Athletic and Beckenham Town.

Andrew Dythe Defender

Joined the Vickers this season, making the short journey over from neighbours Phoenix Sports and looks to be an excellent acquisition. An accomplished left-sided defender who is strong in the tackle, a good passer of the ball and has settled well into the team. With a cultured left foot has given us balance across the back four and

Ben Gorham Defender

Re-joined the Vickers this season from Ashford United where he captained the side. Had a long period away from the club having initially come through our youth ranks, but now makes a welcome return. A tall commanding defender who is dominant in the air, a strong tackler and good organiser, and will be a good acquisition. Also has an eye for goal at set pieces. After earlier leaving the club he spent time with Sittingbourne, Herne Bay and Ashford United.added to our strength at the back.

Lea Dawson Midfielder Captain

A member of the Vickers side when we won promotion from the Ryman League Northern Division before leaving to join Cray Wanderers for another promotion. An experienced player who marshals our midfield well giving good protection to the defence. Strong in the tackle and a good passer of the ball who gives us a presence in the centre of midfield. Has previous experience with Ashford United and Horsham from where he joined us.

Charles Etumnu Midfielder

A new signing who joined the Vickers last season and has slotted seamlessly into our midfield. Brings strength and a physical presence to the side and compliments his other midfield colleagues. Strong in the tackle and a difficult opponent to face. Previous clubs include Cray Wanderers and Whitstable Town.

Ayman El-Mmogharbel Midfielder

A player with great stamina who never gives up a lost cause. Has pace, is technically good with an eye for goal, and links well with his colleagues. On the radar of a number of clubs but has shown his loyalty to the Vickers and is showing excellent development as he gains experience. Never gives opponents time to settle and is a valuable member of the squad.

Jamie Watson Defender

Signed from Bromley and looks to be a good acquisition for the squad. A tall strong defender/midfielder who has great composure on the ball. Reads the game well and looks comfortable in possession. Strong in the tackle and good in the air.

Sonny Black Midfielder

Joined the Vickers this season and has impressed in our pre-season games. An imposing presence in midfield who tackles well and is good in the air. Has good mobility coupled with excellent passing ability. Previous clubs include Westfield and Walton Casuals.

Jason Williams Forward

A strong powerful forward who brings great experience to the Vickers squad. Holds the ball up well and brings other people into the game. Has an eye for goal and will bring another dimension to our attacking play. Former clubs include Tonbridge Angels, Boreham Wood, Chelmsford, Welling Utd and Concord Rangers.

Anthony Adesite Forward

A wide player with pace and strength who joined the Vickers last season and has made an immediate impression. Gives defenders a hard time with his direct play and adds to our attacking options. Has an eye for goal and will be an asset to the club. Previous clubs include Faversham Town and Cray Wanderers.

Courtney Barrington Forward

A young wide player with great trickery and pace who put in some excellent performances in his first spell at the club before his development was curtailed by injury. Having returned to the club we will be looking for more of the same as he looks to claim a regular place in the squad.

Youssef Bamba Forward

Signed for the Vickers at the start of the season and brings a wealth of experience to the club. An attacking wide player who has an eye for goal and an impressive record with his former clubs. Brings another dimension to our attack and should prove a great acquisition to club. Previous experience with Hastings United, Farnborough, Walton Casuals, Westfield and Kingstonian.

Nick Davis

A former VCD favourite as a player. Nick re-joined the club last year after furthering his career in the game with spells at Maidstone United and Tonbridge Angels. Has managerial experience with Sittingbourne and Ramsgate and knows the Isthmian League well. Well respected at Oakwood he brings that knowledge to the Vickers as we begin a new chapter, in the hope that we can regain the unity of the club that we were in danger of losing.

Jason Powell

Comes with a wealth of experience from a playing career that includes the Vickers, and among others, Thamesmead Town, Erith Town, Greenwich Borough and Phoenix Sports. Currently Manager of the VCD Vets side, and has now taken up the post of Assistant to Nick Davis with the First Team.

Youssef Bamba in United colours during his 2018/19 spell with us.

25 Apps 5 Goals Photo: Scott White Photography

A TRIBUTE TO RAY BARR

Sadly Ray passed away recently. A minute’s applause to honour him took place before the home match against Haywards Heath Town on April 2.

Ray played for Hastings United on the left side of defence during the Jack Tresadern years of the early 1950s. He played in the team that experienced the wonderful FA Cup run in the 1953/54 season beating Swindon Town 4-1 and drawing 3-3 at home to Norwich City before a record Pilot Field stadium crowd of 12,727.

Ray, born in Dromore, Northern Ireland, was signed from Arsenal and played for United alongside his brother Don. He later moved on to Peterborough United before returning to Hastings to marry the love of his life, Pam. Ray and Pam lived a wonderful life in Hastings and contributed much to the local community. They died peacefully together on 18/3/22. Much loved, much missed and very proud to have been a Claret and Blue.

Ray’s son Andy joined over 3,000 in attendance for a pre-match tribute applause. He messaged John Wills to reflect on the day. “Thank you for making me feel so welcome. It was a trip down memory lane. The ovation Dad got was truly awesome and moving. So proud of him. Shame the team couldn’t nick a goal.”

Ray starred in the famous Pilot Field match against Norwich City in 1954. The line-ups from the programme shown below.

Thanks to John Wills for Andy’s words and to Vernon Couchman of Hastings Programme History for the images.

A TRIBUTE TO MICKY WESTBURGH

“WESTY”

Sadly Micky passed away recently. A minute’s applause to honour him took place before the home match against Haywards Heath Town on April 2.

After spells at the highest level with Spurs and Everton, Hastings United were lucky to have him represent the club through most of the 1970's and up to 1984.

During his time as a full-time pro with Everton back in the late 1960’s he was amongst the likes of England World Cup winner Alan Ball, along with Howard Kendall, Joe Royle, Colin Harvey and Brian Labone. Micky also represented England at Youth level.

Many fans remember him as one of the best to play for Hastings. For younger fans - as a player, imagine the combined qualities of Dixon, Adams, Stone, Pope and O'Mara.

A Claret and Blue champion and Pilot Field legend.

Tributes on the Hastings United Fans Facebook Page describe him as:

"Inspirational, toughest competitor, role model, last man standing, head never went down"

"No-one around him went missing - he inspired teammates"

"One of the most consistent, hard-grafting, tenacious and talented footballers to grace the Pilot Field"

"100% player who never gave up - in the Billy Bremner mould"

"Always in the middle of any scrap" "Iconic figure"

"Great man and player - always loyal to the club"

"Fans favourite - played with passion, tenacity and best player perm!!"

"Such a good net-bursting shot"

"Not tall but a real fighter, didn't take prisoners"

"Leader, competitor and motivator"

John Wills shared a memory of a grey Saturday afternoon at the Pilot Field. “Barely visible in the foggy haze was Westy, toe to toe, trading with opponents a foot taller. When the scrap ended he picked the ball up, beat a couple of opponents and unleashed a rocket from 40 yards”.

Love, thoughts and gratitude to all Westy's family and friends.

Thanks to John Wills for sharing his matchday tribute notes.

Health & Safety

Hastings United Football Club takes seriously your health and safety during your visit to the TGS Pilot Field.

Please note that the officers and stewards of Hastings United Football Club will enforce Ground Regulations.A copy of these regulations is posted at the entrance to each turnstile and within the ground on the wall next to the food bar.

Please note that the following are offences under the Football (Offences) Act 1991, as amended: the throwing of any object within the ground without lawful authority or excuse, the chanting of anything of an indecent or racist nature: the entry onto the playing area or any adjacent area to which spectators are not generally admitted without lawful authority or excuse.

Under the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc.) Act 1985, the following are offences for which a person can be arrested by a police officer: attempting to enter the ground or being inside the ground whilst drunk: being in possession of any intoxicating liquor, or bottle, can or other portable container which could cause damage or personal injury when entering the ground.

ISTHMIAN LEAGUE RESPECT STATEMENT

“The Isthmian Football League strongly supports the FA statement that there should be a zero tolerance approach against racism and all forms of discrimination. Accordingly any form of discriminatory abuse whether it by reason of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion and belief, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, sex and sexual orientation or any other form of abuse will be reported to The Football Association for action by that Association.”

(The FA 0800 085 0508 / Kick it Out 020 7253 0162 )

The Isthmian League and all Member Clubs in the League are committed to promoting equality by treating people fairly and with respect, by recognising that inequalities may exist, by taking steps to address them and providing access and opportunities for all members of the community.”

www.hastingsunited.com

Gr oun d Regu lati ons an d Customer Charter

Full details of our Ground Regulations and Customer Charter are available to read at our website: www.hastingsunited.com.

These include our policy on ticket and pricing, abandoned matches and our involvement in the Hastings Community.

The Club Believes

Customer care starts on the inside, with a good team of staff and work ethic. Most of our staff are volunteers but the Club expect our staff to always do their best.

Our staff should remain courteous even in difficult situations. The Club and its staff know they are offering a service and that they would like every customer to return.

We believe that people come first when offering a service.

We expect our staff to be friendly and helpful and to know their job or be able to call upon someone who is able to respond to the needs of our customers.

We expect our staff to give their full attention to a customer in any situation that arises.

In Addition

We expect our staff and volunteers to care about their job as this will ensure they care about our customers.

We expect our staff and volunteers to treat every customer as they would like to be treated themselves.

We in return expect our customers to treat our volunteers and staff with respect and the Club will not tolerate any physical or verbal abused aimed at them.

Molly Hill scored against Welling

DateOppositionCompH/AResultWDLAtt Scorers

AUGUST

22Meridian LeagueH10-0W193Hill

4, Heather 2, Tibble 2, Corrigan 2, Williams

29Herne BayLeagueH3-1W153Heather 2, Johnson

SEPTEMBER

5AFC AcornsLeagueH1-0WTBABaitup

12Regents ParkWFACupH9-0WTBAHeather 4, Johnson 3, Williams 3

19Parkwood RangLeagueA2-0WTBAJohnson 2

26Ashford LadiesLeagueA1-1DTBARelf

OCTOBER

3Islington BoroWFACupA2-1WTBAHill 2

10Maidstone UnitedLeagueH5-0W155Sheppard, Johnson, Critchfield, Fletcher, Relf

17Bexhill UnitedLeagueH1-0W221Hyland

24Bromley WFA CupA0-2L536NOVEMBER

7Ashford LadiesLSE CupH4-0W122Heather 2, Hill, Carter

21NewhavenSxChCup QFH3-0WTBAJohnson, Hill, Corrigan

28NewhavenLeagueH2-0WTBAHill, Johnson

DECEMBER

12Brighton & HA SxChCup SFH2-4LTBACorrigan, Johnson

19AFC AcornsLSE CupH5-2WTBAJohnson, Baitup, Tibbs, 2OGs

JANUARY 2022

9Walton CasualsLSE CupA5-0WTBAHill 2, Heather 2, Tibble

UnitedLeagueH7-0WTBACorrigan, Tibble 2, Heather 2, Baitup, Reed

UnitedLeagueA12-1WTBATibble 4, Heather 3, Baitup 3, Reed, Corrigan

FEBRUARY 2022

6Hackney LSE CupA4-1WTBAHeather 2, Hill, Tibble

20Ashford LadiesLeagueH1-2LTBABurt

MARCH 2022

13AFC AcornsLeagueA 4-2WTBAOG, Tibble, Johnson,

Photo: Scott White Photography

HASTINGS UNITED

KIT: CLARET & WHITE

Gary ELPHICK Manager

(GK) Louis ROGERS 1

Ollie BLACK 2

Ryan WORRALL 3

Finn O’MARA 4

Craig STONE 5

Tom CHALMERS 6

Lloyd DAWES 7 (Capt) Jack DIXON 8

Ben POPE 9

Sam ADAMS 10

Sam HASLER 11

Marcus GOLDSMITH 12

Kenny POGUE 14

Harvey GREIG 16

Freddie LEGG 17

Knory SCOTT 18

Dave MARTIN 19

Kane PENN 19

James HULL 19

Danny PARISH 19

SQUADS

3PM SATURDAY 16 APRIL 2022

VCD ATHLETIC FCvs

ISTHMIAN LEAGUE SOUTH EAST

KIT: BLUE & WHITE STRIPE SHIRTS BLUE SHORTS & SOCKS

Nick DAVIS Manager

REFEREE JOSEPH GRAY

ASSISTANTS

ANDREW CROSSLEY

GAVIN BAILEY

MATCH SPONSOR

Sam MOTT (GK)

Chris EDWARDS

Ashley PROBETS Theo Mc KENZIE

Mohammed OSHILAJA

Andrew DYTHE

Ben GORHAM

Lea DAWSON (Capt)

Charles ETUMNU

Ayman EL-MOGHARBEL

Jamie WATSON

HASTINGS UNITED INDEPENDENT

CLUB

MATCHBALL SPONSOR BOB H

MATCH MASCOTS

OSCAR CHALMERS ELLIOTT

RALPH CHALMERS ELLIOTT HENRY BROOKSHAW ELLEANA-ROSE STACK DYLAN-JAMES STACK FREDDIE SALMONS STANLEY ELPHICK TEDDY ELPHICK

THE CONTINENTAL PILOT FIELD HASTINGS TN34 2AX

Sonny BLACK Youssef BAMBA

Kevin LISBIE

Jason WILLIAMS

Anthony ADESITE

Courtney BARRINGTON