Sheffield FC - NPL East - 22.12.23

Issue 15

Vs SHEFFIELD FC PITCHING-IN NPL EAST DIVISION FRIDAY 22ND DECEMBER – 7:45PM

Tonight’s Match Sponsors:

OSSETT UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB INGFIELD, PROSPECT ROAD, OSSETT, WF5 9HL

CLUB PRESIDENT: NEVILLE WIGGLESWORTH CHAIRMAN: PHIL SMITH VICE-CHAIRMAN: NEIL SPOFFORTH SECRETARY: NEIL SPOFFORTH TREASURER: PAUL BILLING BOARD MEMBERS: LEE BROADBENT, STUART GARSIDE, JOE HANKS, STEVE HANKS, KATE HENNIGHAN, DAWN ROGERS, JAMES ROGERS MANAGER: GRANT BLACK ASSISTANT MANAGER: DAVID BROWN COACH: MICK NORBURY, RYAN PUGH, SCOUT: GARY DEVENPORT MEDICAL TEAM: EMILY CRISPIN MENTAL HEALTH & WELLBEING OFFICER: KATE HENNIGHAN MEDIA TEAM: CRAIG BIDDLESTONE, MATT BLACKBURN, CHRIS CASSIDY, HARRISON CARPENTER, OWEN GERRARD, JAMES GOTHARD, KEITH WOOD PROGRAMME DESIGN: JOSEPH WILLIAMSON

CLUB HONOURS (OSSETT UNITED, OSSETT TOWN, OSSETT ALBION ) WEST RIDING COUNTY SENIOR CUP WINNERS: 1949/50 WEST RIDING COUNTY CUP WINNERS: 1958/59, 1964/65, 1965/66, 1967/68, 1981/82, 1998/99, 2018/19 RUNNERS UP: 2000/01 NORTHERN PREMIER LEAGUE FIRST DIVISION RUNNERS UP: 2001/02 PLAY-OFF RUNNERS UP: 2016/17 NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST PREMIER DIVISION WINNERS: 1998/99, 2003/04 RUNNERS UP: 1998/99, 2000/01 NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST FIRST DIVISION WINNERS: 1986/87 NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST SECOND DIVISION WINNERS: 1988/89 OSSETT UNITED IS A TRADING NAME OF OSSETT UNITED LIMITED, A PRIVATE LIMITED COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES. IT IS A COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES. IT IS REGISTERED AT COMPANIES HOUSE, COMPANY NUMBER 11162425. THERE ARE TWO PEOPLE WITH SIGNIFICANT CONTROL. J. ROGERS (30.4%) AND D. ROGERS (30.4%)

WELCOME TO INGFIELD PHIL SMITH, CHAIRMAN season, this of course affects the gate receipts each week and means we are forever looking at the business plan to ensure we do not end up in a situation like the one we had at the end of our first season.

1857 – 2018 I’m not referring to military time here, but the years of formation for the two clubs with the fixture list throwing together the oldest club in the world with us, in just our sixth season since the two clubs in Ossett became United.

161 years separate the two clubs, I wonder how the two clubs will look in 2179, Spoff will be 200 years old that year and no doubt will still be filling in the team sheet before kickoff!

Like ourselves, Sheffield have not picked up the results they would have hoped for this season, however two recent victories have lifted them out of the relegation zone and into 15th place while we picked up three valuable points here a couple of weeks ago.

There has been a lot said about our home form this season and with just four victories at Ingfield so far it is understandable why our attendances have dropped this

Just reading about the situations both Marske United and North Shields have found themselves in in recent weeks just goes to show how vital it is to live within your means as a club, and if income does drop then it is essential to closely monitor the situation rather than leave it until it is too late and there is a huge hole to dig ourselves out of!

Back to today, another Friday night games here at Ingfield, they have proven popular with players and fans alike in recent seasons, and with this being the last Friday before Christmas a good time to have a good old celebration before the big day on Monday.

The added benefit of the Friday night games is the many groundhoppers who make their way to tick off another ground, I am aware of one such football supporter, Ian Bailey, who is making the journey from Sussex to Ossett, that is some journey! I hope you, and everyone in attendance tonight, enjoys your visit.

Phil

THE PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS NEVILLE WIGGLESWORTH

At our last home match against Winterton Rangers we cemented our relationship with the South Ossett Foodbank when the collection on the day exceeded all expectations. Ossett United’s partnership with the foodbank was instigated by Club supporter Paul Stephenson four seasons ago and things have gone from strength to strength in terms of the amount of items donated. It seems the generosity of the Ossett United fan base knows no bounds which was something commented on by the foodbank manager Peter Moore upon receipt of the latest delivery. When Ossett United were originally formed it was the specific intent to be an operational Community Club and the foodbank collections, along with other charity efforts throughout the year, are an example of us putting those intentions into practice.

From Club Directors, volunteers, staff and players along with many who stand on the terraces at every home game the donations rolled in making this Christmas collection our best to date and it would be

remiss of me not to mention the fact and thank everyone for their efforts and not least their generosity. He won’t thank me for singling him out but Paul Cooper – a long time Ossett Town/Ossett United supporter – again came up trumps with his generosity over and above the call of duty. Paul’s own health issues along with those of his wife limit his attendance at matches nowadays but he never lets us down when contributing to the needy and his actions are very much appreciated.

I think it’s fair and safe to say that our playing surface hasn’t always been regarded as the best in the league and especially after a period of prolonged rainfall. This was especially so last season which prompted the Club to undertake some remedial work to the surface during the last close season. Pitch maintenance is not a cheap item in any club’s budget but we got some reward for that effort and expense when our last home fixture against Winterton Rangers went ahead here after extensive rain for a couple of days prior to the match and also throughout the proceedings during the game itself. That game would certainly never have been played as things were last season but not only did the match take place the pitch held up extremely well and was never in doubt despite an inspection being arranged and subsequently cancelled on the morning. Despite further rain we

This evening we are again staging a Friday night game in the hope of attracting a few more spectators through the gates. We trialled this against Liversedge a couple of seasons ago and we were rewarded with an attendance of over 1,000. It’s unlikely we’ll achieve that figure this evening but hopefully we get a few more people in the ground at least and put on a good performance as we go into a busy festive season schedule.

Since becoming Ossett United we have played Sheffield eight times and the records are remarkably even with both teams winning three times and two games have ended up all square. Sheffield, however, take the honours in terms of goal difference

with 13 goals to Ossett’s 9. The last meeting of the two clubs took place on the opening day of the 2023/2024 league season on August 12th when Sheffield ran out 3 – 1 winners in front of a crowd of 321. An Ossett victory tonight would enable us to get our noses in front overall while boosting our league position in the process.

We do extend thanks to Sheffield for their co-operation in agreeing to a Friday night game. We also extend a warm welcome to the Officials, management staff and players and not least the supporters of Sheffield FC who have made the trip up to West Yorkshire this evening.

Enjoy the game and Merry Christmas.

THE DUGOUT GRANT BLACK - MANAGER

Good evening and welcome to Ingfield as we face our neighbours from down the M1 – Sheffield FC. Tonight’s game is our final fixture before Christmas and what better motivation for 3 points than that extra piece of Christmas cheer.

Our last home game saw us secure 3 valuable points – beating Winterton Rangers 4-2.

The game, especially the second half, took place in horrendous conditions. It is testament to the lads that they were able to dig in and beat the weather as well as the opposition to secure the win.

Not only did that game see us win, we also extended our unbeaten record at home to 5 games. A solid home record is vital for us this season and with continued determination and the team applying themselves, we’ll look to turn some of those 1 points into all 3.

Following tonight’s match, we have two more Yorkshire derbies before the New Year is upon us.

Boxing Day sees us make the short journey to Liversedge before we take on Pontefract Collieries at home on December 30th. Bragging rights as well as points will be at stake in these games and we’ll be doing everything we can to send the fans home happy.

Enjoy tonight’s game and however you’re celebrating have a great Christmas and a Happy 2024.

Blackie.

Interview: Winterton Rangers (H)

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Ossett United FC @OssettUnited @ossettutd

CAPTAIN’S COLUMN HARRY COATES - CAPTAIN Tonight we will look to bounce back and achieve back to back home wins.

Good Evening and Merry Christmas!

The lads have been excellent recently putting together a fantastic run of games and going unbeaten over a number of weeks.

Unfortunately, that came to an end last week against Dunston, who will not doubt be at the top end of the table come the end of the season.

From a personal point of view, recovery after my hernia operation is going well and all being well I’ll be back training in January.

Keep up the support, it’s greatly appreciated and enjoy tonight’s game!

Harry

Thank you to tonight’s match sponsors:

To donate or find out more visit:

alzheimersresearchuk.org

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Because of our unwavering dedication to client and candidate satisfaction Juice Personnel are now seen as one of the leading independent recruiters in Wakefield.

OSSETT UNITED OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER

VIEW FROM THE PRESS BOX CRAIG BIDDLESTONE

For the first time in a while I’ve actually struggled to think of something to write for my programme notes today, and then as if by magic the draw for the next round of the West Riding FA County Cup was announced, and we make the trip to the other side of Leeds for a tie with Guiseley AFC. It only seems like yesterday that we were playing The Lions in front of 1,118 fans at The World Famous Ingfield, when Andy Welsh’s Ossett United team famously defeated Guiseley 2-1 for our first piece of silverware, and in our inaugural season too, courtesy of goals from Tom Greaves and Aiden Chippendale. But ironically, when we travel to Nethermoor Park on 6th February 2024, it will be the aforementioned Andy Welsh who will be in the home dugout, the first time he will have faced an Ossett United team since his departure in November 2019.

This got me thinking, there is of course the old adage that returning

players normally score against you, so I thought I’d have a quick flick through the past 5 and a half seasons results to see just how many I could spot. First off was Eddie Church’s controversial brace as neighbours Brighouse Town beat us 2-1 in August 2019, and fast forward less than a month and Aiden Chippendale scored for Colne in a 4-0 FA Cup thumping in September 2019.

Next up and Eddie Church was at it again, this time for Tadcaster Albion, Church scored 1 of Taddy’s 2 goals in the December 2021 fixture, only this time we ended up 3-2 winners under the one game leadership of James Walshaw and Ross Killock, and in February of that same 2021/22 season, former fan favourite Adam Priestley netted the second as we fell to a 2-0 defeat at Yorkshire Amateur.

Last season Jack Wilson who had only been on loan at Ossett United a month earlier netted the winner for Brighouse as we fell to a 2-1 defeat at the Yorkshire Payments Stadium, just a week later Priestley was at it again scoring from the penalty spot as we drew 2-2 at home to Pontefract Collieries, and at the end of last season Brighouse (a real thorn in our side) beat us 4-0 at Ingfield, with no fewer than 3 former players scoring - Corey Gregory (now of course back with us), Josh Grant and Reon Potts.

Finally, on to this season, Priestley made it 4 against us over the seasons when he netted twice in a 4-0 win for Ponte at The Hunters Stadium, Tom Corner scored one goal as we lost 3-1 at North Ferriby, and Brandon Webster scored an 88th minute equaliser for Brighouse in a 1-1 home draw.

Friday’, and with that welcome back Edd Hall, Brad Beatson, Reece Fielding, Luke Aldrich and Curt Morrison, but hopefully we’ll be putting on the same sort of performance, and getting the same sort of result as we did last time out at home against Winterton Rangers.

So there has been a few, and I’ve probably missed some, but I think the general rule here is try to avoid Brighouse Town if any of our former Sheepicorns turn out for them, and try to avoid any team featuring either Eddie Church or Adam Priestley!

Tonight’s halftime playlist will of course be festive tunes, so all that leaves me to say is I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas, and as I won’t be at the re-arranged home game against Ponte on Saturday 30th December, a Happy New Year.

On to today, and we welcome Sheffield FC to Ingfield on this ‘Mad

Craig

Player’s Number

Sponsor

Number 1

Stanley Kelly

Number 2

The Scottish Supporters Club

MEET THE TEAM 2023/24 BACKROOM STAFF GRANT BLACK – MANAGER

2023/24 WILL BE GRANT’S FIRST FULL SEASON AS OSSETT UNITED MANAGER HAVING JOINED IN OCTOBER 2022 AND OVER SEEING A RE-BUILD OF THE FIRST TEAM SQUAD. GRANT HAS SEEN SUCCESS AT OSSETT TOWN IN HIS FIRST MANAGERIAL ROLE BEFORE ENHANCING HIS REPUTATION BELPER TOWN WHERE HELED THE SIDE TO PROMOTION TO STEP THREE AND AN FA CUP FIRST ROUND MEETING WITH NOTTS COUNTY.

DAVID BROWN – PLAYER/ASSISTANT MANAGER

BROWNIE HAS STEPPED UP FROM A COACHING ROLE TO BECOME ASSISTANT MANAGER THIS SEASON AS HIS OFF-FIELD REPUTATION CONTINUES TO GROW WITH A VARIETY OF INNOVATIVE TRAINING SESSIONS KEEP THE PLAYERS ON THEIR TOES. A REGULAR GOAL SCORER THROUGHOUT HIS CAREER, HE WILL LOOK TO ENHANCE THE SIDE ON THE FIELD WHEN CALLED UPON TOO.

RYAN PUGH – GOALKEEPING COACH

RYAN’S PLAYING CAREER SAW HIM FEATURE FOR GOOLE, NEW MILLS, MATLOCK TOWN AND A FAMOUS SPELL AT OSSETT ALBION FONDLY REMEMBERED BY OSSETT TOWN FANS AFTER ONE PARTICULAR OSSETT DERBY (ASK HIM, HE LOVES TALKING ABOUT IT…) PUGHY JOINED GRANT’S BACK-ROOM STAFF AT BELPER TOWN AND HAS PROVEN POPULAR WITH GOALKEEPERS HE HAS WORKED WITH, PUSHING THEM TO BE THE BEST THEY CAN BE.

MICK NORBURY– COACH Norbs is no stranger to Ossett having played for both Ossett Albion and Town, his playing career saw him make almost 100 league appearances for Cambridge United, Preston North End and Doncaster Rovers. After retiring from playing he has managed in the NCEL as well as working with Grant Black at Ossett Town and Belper Town before moving to Ossett United in October 2022. Norbs left at the end of the 22/23 season to take up a role at a Dearne & District in the Central Midlands League before returning to the Ingfield coaching staff in September 2023

GARY DEVENPORT - SCOUT

DEV WILL SPEND HIS TIME ASSESSING UPCOMING OPPONENTS AND POTENTIAL NEW SIGNINGS THIS SEASON. A KEY ROLE TO THE MANAGEMENT TEAM AS THEY PREPARE THE SIDE AHEAD OF GAMES AS WELL AS ANALYSING VIDEOS OF GAMES. HE WILL BE KNOWN TO MANY SUPPORTERS AS A HOST OF THE FORMER LEEDS UNITED PODCAST ‘TALKING SHUTT’

MEET THE TEAM 2023/24 PLAYERS JOE GREEN - GOALKEEPER

FORMER GUISELEY, NEWPORT COUNTY AND HYDE UNITED GOALKEEPER, JOE IS STRONG IN STATURE, AN EXCELLENT SHOT STOPPER AND HIS DISTRIBUTION OF THE BALL WILL BE A HUGE ASSET THIS SEASON. JOE MADE HIS PROFESSIONAL DEBUT FOR NEWPORT COUNTY IN THE FA CUP 3RD ROUND AGAINST BLACKBURN ROVERS. SPONSORED BY THE HANKS FAMILY

DARYL OMBANG – GOALKEEPER SIGNED ON LOAN FROM LEEDS UNITED IN OCTOBER. HAS MADE AN IMPRESSIVE START TO LIFE BETWEEN THE STICKS FOR THE SHEEPICORNS. IMPRESSING IN A RESOLUTE WIN AWAY AT STOCKSBRIDGE. SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE

JACOB MCLOUGHLIN – DEFENDER SIGNED IN THE SUMMER OF 2023 HAVING IMPRESSED IN THE FRIENDLIES. STRONG AT THE BACK AND HAS THE ABILITY TO STEP INTO THE MIDFIELD WITH THE BALL TO START ATTACKS, HE WAS MOST RECENTLY AT YORK CITY. SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE

HARRY COATES - DEFENDER

A KEY SIGNING LAST SEASON FROM ASHTON UNITED DESPITE BEING CHASED

BY NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH AND NPL PREMIER DIVISION SIDES. APPOINTED CLUB CAPTAIN THIS SUMMER. HARRY IS A COMMANDING CENTRAL DEFENDER AND COMFORTABLE WITH THE BALL AT HIS FEET AND MORE THAN CAPABLE TO STEP INTO MIDFIELD.

SPONSORED BY JAMES & DAWN ROGERS

JIMMY BURKE - DEFENDER

BURKEY MADE 46 APPEARANCES FOR THE CLUB BETWEEN 2018 – 2020 AND IS A WELCOME ADDITION TO THE SQUAD. AS WELL AS A SUCCESSFUL FIRST SPELL AT THE CLUB HE PLAYED A KEY ROLE FOR HYDE UNITED AS THEY REACHED THE FIRST ROUND OF THE FA CUP. JIMMY STARTED HIS CAREER AT HUDDERSFIELD TOWN AND MADE HIS EFL DEBUT AFTER TRANSFERRING TO BURY. SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE

MEET THE TEAM 2023/24 PADDY MILLER – DEFENDER

PADDY SURPRISED THE NON-LEAGUE WORLD AS HE CAME OUT OF RETIREMENT LAST SEASON TO RETURN TO THE FIELD RE-IGNITING A DEFENSIVE PARTNERSHIP WITH HARRY COATES WHICH PROVED SUCCESSFUL AT BOTH HYDE UNITED AND TADCASTER ALBION. PADDY ADDS EXPERIENCE AND A SENSE OF CALM TO ANY SIDE HE IS PART OF. SPONSORED BY JP NUGENT LTD PLUMBING AND HEATING

DERRY ROBSON – DEFENDER/MIDFIELDER

TALENTED AND VERSATILE, DEZ IS AS COMFORTABLE IN MIDFIELD AS HE IN AT FULL-BACK. DERRY HAS EXPERIENCE OF PROMOTION FROM STEP FOUR AND WILL ADD DRIVE AND EXPERIENCE TO THE SIDE. DEZ JOINED THE CLUB IN 2022 FROM NPL EAST SIDE CLEETHORPES TOWN. SPONSORED BY PAUL COOPER

FABIAN BAILEY – DEFENDER/MIDFIELDER

SIGNED FROM PONTEFRACT COLLIERIES WHERE HE SPENT FOUR SEASONS. FAB IS ABLE TO TURN HIS HAND TO A NUMBER OF POSITIONS AS REQUIRED, HE STARTED HIS CAREER AT ROTHERHAM UNITED AND HAS ALSO HAD SPELLS AT FRICKLEY ATHLETIC AND OSSETT TOWN. SPONSORED BY RICH CALLAGHAN COREY GREGORY – MIDFIELDER

CULTURED MIDFIELDER, COREY RETURNS TO INGFIELD AFTER A SPELL AT BRIGHOUSE TOWN. NO STRANGER TO GRANT BLACK WHO HAS SIGNED HIM FOR A THIRD TIME HAVING WORKED WITH HIM AT OSSETT TOWN AND BELPER TOWN. COREY WILL BE A DRIVING FORCE IN THE HEART OF THE PITCH.

SPONSORED BY THE ADAMSON FAMILY Tom Claisse - Midfield

Claisse brings a wealth of experience to Ingfield having played for Whitby Town, Farsley Celtic, Ossett Albion and Town, Bradford Park Avenue, Tadcaster Albion and most recently North Ferriby after starting his career at Bradford City.

Claisse has also captained the RAF Football side and was given the honour of carrying the FA Cup to the Royal Box, handing it to Prince William, ahead of the 2018 final between Manchester United and Chelsea.

SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE

MEET THE TEAM 2023/24 JANNI LIPKA - MIDFIELDER

A KEY PLAYER IN THE SUCCESSFUL HYDE UNITED SIDE WHO PLAYED MK DON’S IN THE FA CUP, LIPKA HAS GREAT EXPERIENCE AND HAS PLAYED A CENTRAL ROLE FOR THE CLUB SINCE SIGNING LAST SEASON. HAVING HAD AN INJURY INTERRUPTED SEASON LAST YEAR, WITH A FULL PRE-SEASON BEHIND HIM JANNI IS EXPECTED TO GO FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH THIS SEASON. SPONSORED BY PAUL COOPER

RHYS PLATER- MIDFIELDER

YOUNG WINGER SIGNED FROM ARMTHORPE WELFARE WHERE HE HAS SCORED 12 GOALS IN 50 APPEARANCES AFTER HE IMPRESSED IN PRE-SEASON AGAINST US. RHYS HAS MADE AN IMPACT ON THE SQUAD WITH AN ASSIST ON HIS DEBUT. HE ADDS SPEED AND SKILL TO THE GROUP AND IS AN EXCELLENT OPTION FOR THE MANAGEMENT TEAM

SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE

KELAN SWALES - FORWARD

YOUNG SIGNED ON DUAL-REGISTRATION FORMS WITH NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH SIDE ALFRETON TOWN. KELAN HAS SPENT SEVERAL SUCCESSFUL YEARS PLAYING IN AMERICA AND IS NOW LOOKING TO ESTABLISH HIMSELF BACK IN ENGLAND. KELAN SPENT TIME IN THE HALIFAX TOWN ACADEMY BEFORE HIS MOVE TO AMERICA.

SPONSORED BY SPOFF & KATE

DESMOND AMPONSAH – FORWARD

QUICK AND TRICKY FROM EITHER FOOT, DESMOND IS SURE TO GET THE FANS EXCITED, A REAL DEFENDERS NIGHTMARE. DESMOND SPENT LAST SEASON WITH LIVERSEDGE AND TADCASTER ALBION GAINING NPL EXPERIENCE. SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE

TJ IBRAHIM – FORWARD

A DYNAMIC WINGER WITH AN EYE FOR GOAL, TJ WAS THE FIRST SUMMER SIGNING JOINING THE CLUB FROM BRIGHOUSE TOWN WHERE HE HAS SPENT THE PAST FIVE SEASONS. TJ HAS GIVEN FULL BACK’S SLEEPLESS NIGHTS OVER RECENT YEARS AND KNOW HOW THEY THINK AS HE IS MORE THAN CAPABLE OF FULFILLING THAT POSITION HIMSELF IF REQUIRED. SPONSORED BY KEITH & KATH WOOD

SAM KELLY - FORWARD

ANOTHER SUMMER SIGNING AND ONE THAT WILL UNDOUBTABLY EXCITE THE INGFIELD FAITHFUL. TALL, STRONG AND QUICK, SAM WILL ADD A NEW OPTION UPFRONT FOR THE SIDE HAVING SPENT TIME IN AMERICA WHERE HE EARNED A PLACE IN THE TEAM OF THE YEAR THANKS TO HIS PROWESS IN FRONT OF GOAL SCORING 22 GOALS IN 31 APPEARANCES FOR FAULKNER UNIVERSITY EAGLES.

SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE

MEET THE TEAM 2023/24 ALEX PETERSON - FORWARD

A KEY MEMBER OF THE SIDE, ALEX’S WORK RATE IS SECOND TO NONE AND HE IS A HANDFUL FOR ANY DEFENDER THAT HE COMES UP AGAINST. STRONG AND EXCELLENT IN THE AIR HE IS A FOCAL POINT OF THE OSSETT SIDE BRINGING PLAYERS AROUND HIM INTO THE GAME WHILST ALSO FINISHING ANY CHANCES CREATED.

SPONSORED BY MOZ & MARZ

RAFA FERREIRA – FORWARD

A FLAIR PLAYER WHO IMPRESSED IN PRE-SEASON AND EARNT HIMSELF A DEAL AT THE CLUB, RAFA HAS SPENT TIME AT GUISELEY, PICKERING TOWN AND TADCASTER ALBION AHEAD OF JOINING OSSETT UNITED THIS SUMMER. SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE

THE OPPOSITION Sheffield F.C – A Brief History Early Football Versions of football evolved in many early civilisations, example of these can be found in ancient China, Greece and Rome. In England the original games were played between villages in fields and streets. This ‘Mob Football’ involved hundreds of players and was little more than prolonged and violent street battles. In the 19th century a more refined version of the game grew in popularity within the public schools and universities, each playing to their own sets of rules.

The Birth of Sheffield Football Club.

During the 1850s the enthusiasm and influence of ex-public school and university students spread the popularity of the game around Sheffield. In the summer of 1857 William Prest and Nathaniel Creswick agreed that the game would be a splendid candidate for organised sport during the winter months. The pair wrote to the Public Schools for information, regarding their varying rules, with the aim of drawing up a set of laws embodying the best points from each. On October 24th, 1857, the world’s first football club was born in a greenhouse.

Among the first rules drawn up were laws asserting that “no hacking or tripping up is fair under any circumstances”, “no player may be held or pulled over” and “it is not lawful to take the ball off the ground [using hands]”. Upon the formation of the Football Association in 1863, Sheffield Club’s insistence on these laws helped lead the evolution of the game we recognise globally today. Heading, crossbars, corner kicks, free-kicks for fouls, throw-ins, a half-time change of ends and floodlit matches can all be traced to the innovators of Sheffield F.C. Early Years Initially early matches, such as Married men v Unmarried, were played between club members. Records also show games against local army sides.

Following victory over the 58th Army Regiment in 1860 a local report stated that, “most of the officers were adepts at the game, having, in their younger days, played in the public school matches, and the victory of the civilians was quite unexpected.”

Following the birth of Hallam F.C., the world’s first inter-club game took place on Boxing Day in 1860. The match “was conducted with good temper and in a friendly spirit”, concluding in a 2-0 win for Sheffield. For several years all matches were played locally, against a rising number of new sides, before the first ‘out of town’ match was played in Nottinghamshire in 1865.

THE OPPOSITION In 1866 Sheffield became the first non-London side to play under FA Laws when they met London at Battersea Park.

The FA Cup was founded in 1871 and in its third season Sheffield became the first northern side to take part and the first non-London side to win a tie.

They succeeded in reaching the quarter finals in this and two further seasons also, 1876 and 1878, the club’s support helping the FA Cup nearly treble in size and become a nationwide competition.

1872 saw the first international game, between England and Scotland in Glasgow, with Sheffield’s Charles Clegg playing for the England side. Clegg would later go on to be Chairman, and President, of the FA and receive a knighthood for his services to the game.

From the 1880s onwards the rise of professionalism and Sheffield Club’s firm insistence on retaining their amateur status saw them overtaken and overshadowed by other sides in the area. During these years the very survival of the club owed much to the leadership of former players Harry Chambers and Harry Broughton Willey.

It wasn’t all doom and gloom though! In fact Sheffield enjoyed possibly their greatest hour in 1904 when they won the Amateur Cup, beating Ealing 3-1 at Valley Parade, Bradford.

Yorkshire League 1949 brought admission to the Yorkshire League and a resurgence, which saw the side promoted to Division 1 in their third season and reach the League Cup final in 1953. In 1957 they celebrated their Centenary year and reached their first Sheffield & Hallamshire FA Cup final in 1962.

After a period of yo-yoing between divisions the 1977 side were crowned Division 2 Champions and reached that season’s FA Vase final at Wembley.

They established themselves as a top division side in the Yorkshire League, lifting the League Cup in 1978, before joining the newly founded Northern Counties East League in 1982.

Northern Counties League The Division 1 title was won in both 1989 and 1991 and a first Sheffield & Hallamshire FA Cup win came in 1994. In 2001 the club acquired a permanent ground, for the first time, when moving to its current home. After the turn of the century the side began to consistently challenge for promotion, also winning the League Cup and Sheffield & Hallamshire FA Cup twice apiece. The 2006/07 season ended with a 2nd place finish and

THE OPPOSITION promotion to the Northern Premier League.

Northern Premier League Club made an instant impact in reaching the 2008 play-off final, narrowly losing only on penalties. That first season also saw games against Inter Milan and Ajax at Bramall Lane, as part of the 150th birthday celebrations. The side have reached the NPL play-offs a further 3 times in addition to lifting the Sheffield & Hallamshire FA Cup in 2008 and 2010.

Last season was a tough one as we went into the final months of the season near the bottom of the table, having taken just one point from six games and with a new management team. Under the duo of Ryan Cresswell and Jamie Yates the side won two of their next three matches and but a disappointing loss at home to bottom of the table Pickering at the start of April meant relegation remained a very real danger. The side showed true grit though and just a single defeat over the final five fixtures with victory on the final day enough to secure safety. After a turbulent term, hopes are high that a settled side can continue that late season form and bring about a much more successful campaign in 2022/23, which started with Sheffield winning the 2022 Corinthian Cup in London.

Past Meetings Date

Competition

Venue

Score

Scorers

03.11.18

League

A (318)

0-3

05.01.19

League

H (586)

1-0

13.11.21

League

A (445)

0-0

08.02.22

League

H (395)

3-2

Haswell, Turner, Ofoegbu

24.09.22

FA Trophy

A (351)

1-1

Fearon (won 4-2 on pens)

25.02.23

League

H (370)

0-3

04.04.23

League

A (352)

3-2

12.08.23

League

A (321)

1-3

Chantler

Own Goal

THE OPPOSITION Jordan Pierrepont (Goalkeeper) – DOB 26/09/1999 Standing at 6'7", Pierrepont is viewed as one of the best young prospects at his age, joining Sheffield FC from Basford United. Jordan spent much of last season impressing at Frickley Athletic whilst on loan, having joined Basford from Heanor Town.

Edd Hall (Goalkeeper) – DOB 26/10/1999 Someone who has been admired by Sheffield FC for some time, Edd finally joined the World’s First in March 2023 from Ossett United. Hall has played in goal for Yorkshire's international side and counts Bradford Park Avenue, Farsley Celtic and Brighouse Town among his former employers.

Alfie Smith (Defender) – DOB 02/12/1999 A physically imposing and no-nonsense defender, Smith joins Club from local rivals Handsworth, where he made his mark as a consistent performer.

Having started his journey with Sheffield Wednesday, Alfie then joined Swallownest Miners Welfare, where he served as club skipper.

Riley Noble (Defender) – DOB 08/01/2001 Riley is currently the captain of the Sheffield FC Development squad, and is seen as a promising prospect, signing first team forms after impressing in preseason. A free-flowing full back, who can look equally as comfortable defending, as well as joining up in attack.

Sam Greenhouse (Defender) – DOB 05/04/2004 The youngest member of the Sheffield FC first team squad, Sam was the first to put pen to paper in the 2022 close season, joining Club from Rotherham United. Another player to have links with the Millers, Greenhouse is a powerful player for his tender age, possessing speed, strength, and a few secret weapons.

Corey Glaves (Defender) – DOB 04/09/2002 Talented defender who joined Sheffield Club at the start of 2023 to bolster the squad, and has impressed in his opening couple of games. Spent his youth career at Sheffield Wednesday and was expected to progress through the ranks, however was released in 2021 instead.

Reece Fielding (Defender) – DOB 23/10/1998 Club captain Fielding started his career with Doncaster Rovers, where he made three first team appearances, as well as spending time on loan at Frickley Athletic and Biggleswade Town. Having spent time at Ossett United, Reece joined Club last summer from local rivals Stocksbridge Park Steels.

THE OPPOSITION Connor Cutts (Defender) – DOB 06/11/1999 Highly rated and highly promising defender who was transferred from Maltby Main this summer. Connor has had spells with Stocksbridge and Handsworth, having started with Sheffield United’s youth set up.

Rory Coleman (Defender) – DOB 22/12/1990 Coleman started his career in the Football League at Scunthorpe United before dropping down into the non-league game and playing for teams such as Ilkeston, Stocksbridge, Leek Town, Coalville and most recently Grantham Town. Rory had a spell with Sheffield FC in the 2018/19 season, where he impressed with his experience, and using his wand of a left foot to deliver some exquisite set pieces.

Stephen Brogan (Defender) – DOB 12/04/1988 Experienced left-sided player “Brogues” joins Club from Stalybridge Celtic, having started his career with Rotherham United, he went on to play for numerous non-league clubs, including North Ferriby United, Forest Green Rovers, Alfreton, Buxton, Boston United, Spennymoor Town and Gainsborough Trinity.

Bradley Beatson (Defender) – DOB 12/04/1988 Left sided centre back Beatson joined Club for the second time in October 2023 from local side Hallam, having started his career as a scholar at Sheffield Wednesday. Brad is a well-travelled player whose former clubs include Gainsborough Trinity, Boston United, Matlock Town, Frickley Athletic, Maltby Main, Stocksbridge Park Steels and Ossett United.

Sam Greenhouse (Defender) – DOB 05/04/2004 The youngest member of the Sheffield FC first team squad, Sam was the first to put pen to paper in the 2022 close season, joining Club from Rotherham United. Another player to have links with the Millers, Greenhouse is a powerful player for his tender age, possessing speed, strength, and a few secret weapons.

Ted Cribley (Midfield) – DOB 02/04/1990 Ted returned to Sheffield FC in 2019, having spent time at Matlock Town, as well as spells at Barrow and Hyde United. Having started his journey with Sheffield FC’s Reserves, Cribley spent two years at Syracuse in the US, winning several accolades along the way.

THE OPPOSITION Harry Mitchell (Midfield) – DOB 11/11/1998 Combative midfielder ‘Mitch’ made the step up to the NPL last season after impressing for NCEL team Handsworth the season before and didn't disappoint with several man of the match performances, developing and maturing as the season progressed. Scorer of Sheffield FC’s 2021/22 Goal of the Season, winning with his 45-yard volley versus Pontefract.

Adam Watson (Midfield) – DOB 11/09/1991 “Watto” joined Sheffield from fellow Northern Premier League East side Worksop Town in 2022. Beginning his career in Leeds United academy, Watson has also featured for Northern Counties East Football League Side Rossington Main and Grantham Town.

Jamie Yates (Midfield) – DOB 24/12/1988 “Yatesy” is a lively, experienced midfielder, and is also Sheffield FC’s Assistant Manager. Another whose former clubs include Rotherham United, Boston United, Gainsborough Trinity and Matlock Town. Jamie can play on either wing, central midfield, and worked his way through the Rotherham United youth setup before playing 34 league games for the club.

Marc Newsham (Forward) – DOB 24/03/1987 Another one of the many in the Sheffield FC squad with Rotherham United tie, Newie started his career with Millers back in 2005, where he made 48 first team appearances, having had a spell on loan at The World's First. He has since played in Non-League football for Gainsborough Trinity, Ilkeston Town, Boston United - where he made over 200 appearances) and Matlock Town. He returned to the Home of Football in 2018, taking up the captain's armband just a year later.

Benefit Ndlovu (Forward) – DOB 08/12/2001 Zimbabwe born Benni is one to watch, with pace and skill to spare, and an eye for goal, this lad has a big future ahead of him. Having excelled at Sheffield FC Youth, Development and Reserves teams, Benni was due to make the natural step up to the NPL side last summer but was side-lined for the full season following a freak injury. Now fully fit, he is aiming to be a permanent fixture in the First Team squad.

Nathan Modest (Forward) – DOB 29/09/1991 Nathan re-joined Sheffield FC midway through last season from Grantham, having appeared way back in 2011/12 following his release from Sheffield Wednesday. Has spent the last decade scoring and plying his trade at various clubs, including Worksop Town, Lincoln United, Gloucester City, Hednesford Town, Rainworth Miners Welfare and Bridlington Town.

THE OPPOSITION Luke Mangham (Forward) – DOB 02/03/1996 Luke joined Club from Belper Town in June 2023. He originally joined Belper from Stocksbridge Park Steels in 2022 where he was their leading scorer in each of his last three seasons at the club. He also had earlier spells at Garforth Town, Frickley Athletic, Ossett Town and Goole.

Cameron Johnson (Forward) – DOB 30/06/1997 Powerful forward with an eye for goal signed for Club in December 2023 from Belper Town having previously played for Peterborough Sports, Boston United, Tamworth, Rossington Main and Stamford having also gained academy experience in his early career with Doncaster Rovers.

Luke Aldrich (Forward) – DOB 20/04/1997 Aldrich joined Sheffield from NPL East rivals Ossett United at the start of 2023.

He can, and has, scored all types of goals, he is a very mature lad in how he plays and still only 25 years old. He has had experience at this level with Cleethorpes Town, whilst also excelling at Eccleshill United last season, where he scored 25 goals.

MOVE ON UP DAVID POTTINGER 'Long Long Gone' by Nick Corbin a review...

Nick Corbin is no stranger to people who've had their ears to the ground for great sounds over the last decade. New Street Adventure were a breath of fresh air when they burst onto the scene in 2011, a fresh soul dynamic with Nick at the helm spreading their 21st century soul message to the sussed. New Street Adventure released two superb records on the legendary Acid Jazz label, "No Hard Feelings" in 2014 and "Stubborn Sons" in 2017 both received critical acclaim and brought the perfect modern day soul sound to a scene which was seriously lacking before the arrival of NSA! Fast forward to 2020 and the aptly named "Mod Mike Skinner" Nick Corbin is back with sounds and vocals fresher than anything you've heard this year.

With his forthcoming debut solo album "Sweet Escape" due to be released later in the year and two singles, "Can We Do It Again?" and "Never Did Look Like Love“ already in

the bag, Friday 10th April sees Nick's latest release "Long Long Gone" ready to be set free into the music populous of 2020...

From the off this tune hits your every fibre leaving a lasting impression.

The 70's synth which you hear in the opening bars sends the message to all listeners that Nick is not messing about here. It's a groover and and represents Nicks ability as a song writer to move forward and push boundaries whatever the tune or occasion. "My stubbornness leaks like a broken tap, drip, drip, drip on your dreams" an opening line which shows the quality of the craft that is Corbin's songwriting he never has nor ever will produce a tune without the quality being ridiculously high.

One thing that strikes me about "Long Long Gone" is the superb production of the song. Every guitar lick, vocal, and instrument is bang on the money and makes this tune sure to be number one in your summer sets and playlists.

The chorus is the best I've heard this year, "Now that you're long long

MOVE ON UP DAVID POTTINGER long gone I know I was wrong wrong wrong wrong..." it will have you humming/singing it for those hours on end you stare at the clock in the canteen longing for the weekend. It's stunning and showcases that modern day soul sound that Nick and NSA created in the past brining it to 2020 with Corbin well and truly at the fore.

The middle eight is perfectly placed and adds so much to the tune. "I know my friends hope I've learned but, next time I'll be fine, I understand their concerns but, next time I'll be alright..." this eventually leads to the final chorus and finishes off three minutes and eight seconds of sheer soul perfection with enough punch to make you play it a further twenty times after first listen. Nick I salute you mate and if this is anything to go by (which I know it is) then "Sweet Escape" is going to be one hell of a record! Listen to "Long Long Gone" on all major listening platforms and order your limited edition 7" here!

David Pottinger is a writer, interviewer and teacher from Middlesbrough. He has written his own blog – Move On Up - since 2013. The blog is inspired

by Modernist culture and covers Music, Fashion, Football and everything in between. From now until the end of the season, we will be featuring a selection of his articles from the last decade. To find more visit moveonupblog.co.uk

Next Week: Pontefract Collieries

In Conversation With Apollo Junction...

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THE UNTOLD GAME MARTYN GREEN The Original Buffon Gianluigi Buffon is one of the greatest goalkeepers the game has ever seen. A precocious teenager so talented that when he broke into Parma’s first team at 16, he was told he would be his country’s number one by the time he was twenty. ‘Why would I wait that long?’ was his confident reply. But goalkeeping was in Buffon’s genes. Some three decades before Gianluigi arrived in the world, and half a century before he sat atop it, his grandfather’s cousin was making his debut for Portogruaro. It wasn’t long before he was on the move to Italian giants Milan, where Lorenzo Buffon would become a legend.

Lorenzo’s career started in the chaos of post-war Italian football. The first national championships had been created under facism, and with the financial struggles of football following the war, that required a restructure. Despite a mid-table finish, Portogruaro were dropped into the vast, regional, amateur fourth tier, and turned to their academy for an immediate return to Serie C. Buffon would probably not have been given such an early start in a higher division, but at that level, he was given the gloves. And so nearly, he achieved immediate success. Portogruaro struggled to score goals, but Buffon’s performance in goal kept them in the title race right to the end of the

season. In the end, they were massively outscored by San Dona, who took the single promotion place, but the young goalkeeper had done enough to grab the attention of at the top of the tree.

Milan were in a period of rebuilding that would define them for a decade. Gunnar Gren and Nils Liedholm joined their Swedish compatriot Gunnar Nordahl in the famous Gre-No-Li attacking line, which meant the signing of a backup goalkeeper happened without much fanfare at all. Content to warm the bench as a profession, Buffon had to wait until January of 1950 to make his debut for the Rossoneri. He stood out in a 5-1 win, and was given a second game, then a third, a game against Juventus which was the first Serie A game to be televised live. Milan destroyed their opponents, winning 7-1, and while the super Swedes took the headlines, Buffon was now undroppable.

THE UNTOLD GAME Despite their win, Milan failed to take the Scudetto away from Turin until the following season, when they were so dominant that they failed to win any of their final five games, and still secured the title. The power was shifting to the city, and Inter made their own claim on the Italian title, bolstered by their own young goalkeeper Giorgio Ghezzi. He and Buffon developed a rivalry both on and off the pitch.

Ghezzi went to the World Cup in 1954 as first choice, owing to Inter’s backto-back titles, but a poor showing soon had the Azzurri turning to Buffon.

Ghezzi suffered a double blow. Edy Campagnoli was a catwalk model and tv star, and Ghezzi’s girlfriend.

But when he was dropped by the national team, she dropped him as well. In a move that could have come straight from her tv shows, she ended up in Buffon’s arms. They married in 1958, and Ghezzi reportedly never recovered from the rejection.

Milan returned to title-winning form following the World Cup, and qualified for the European Cup. He saw them to another title in 1957, and Milan made the European Cup final in 1958, but without an injured Buffon in goal they conceded 3 and lost in injury time to Real Madrid.

In fact, injuries would prove to be his downfall. Following that European Cup defeat, the Milan board started to question Buffon’s injury record and

looking for a replacement. He played one more season for the Rossoneri before another soap-opera twist.

Ghezzi, following his heartbreak, had left the city of Milan on the eve of Buffon and Campagnoli’s wedding and spent a year at Genoa. Milan made their move and brought him in.

Buffon went the other way, and was unable to prevent his new side’s relegation, because once again he’d spent most of the season on the injury table. But Inter had struggled to replace Ghezzi, and saw an opportunity. He joined the Nerazurri, and resumed his rivalry with Ghezzi.

Juventus won the 1961 title, but all attention was on the Milan rivalry.

Buffon and Inter won the first tie, before Ghezzi and Milan won the return. But it was less about results, and more about who would get that coveted number 1 jersey at the 1962 World Cup. Buffon suffered a blow in 1962, conceding the title to Milan and Ghezzi, but he had conceded the fewest goals. The call came, and he was off to Chile. He had won once again.

Sadly, after keeping a clean sheet in the first game, he got injured once more. Italy crashed out of the World Cup, and neither Buffon or Ghezzi would play for them again.

His cousin’s grandson would eventually go on to surpass him, but Lorenzo will always be the original Buffon.

Find more at theuntoldgame.co.uk

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CLUB HISTORY THE FORMATION Ossett United was created on 1 June 2018 following the merger of Ossett Town AFC (est. 1936) and Ossett Albion AFC (est. 1944). Both Ossett Town and Ossett Albion had managed to gain Northern Premier League status and maintain that level of football for a remarkable period of time.

The two clubs merged under the leadership of a new board brought together from the two previous clubs. The Club made its new home Ingfield, the previous home of Ossett Town, and used Dimple Wells, the previous home of Ossett Albion, as its Ladies and Academy Team base.

EARLY CHANGES Despite a successful first season on the pitch, off field things were not as successful with a number of board resignations and some challenging financial issues to deal with following the merger. By the end of the 2018/19 season, Phil Smith had taken on the mantle of club chairman with Stuart Garside, Steve Hanks, Paul Billing, Neil Spofforth and Joe Hanks joining the board.

There were more troubles for Ossett United in November 2019 as a significant and unprecedented court case, dating back to a tackle in 2015 when Ossett Town were playing Radcliffe Borough, was lost with United facing legal and damages costs amounting to £135,000. Fortunately, the club received a generous loan from two of its closest supporters to avoid the club going into liquidation (at worst) or selling the Ingfield ground (at best).

CLUB HISTORY Despite a successful first season on the pitch, off field things were not as successful with a number of board resignations and some challenging financial issues to deal with following the merger. By the end of the 2018/19 season, Phil Smith had taken on the mantle of club chairman with Stuart Garside, Steve Hanks, Paul Billing, Neil Spofforth and Joe Hanks joining the board.

There were more troubles for Ossett United in November 2019 as a significant and unprecedented court case, dating back to a tackle in 2015 when Ossett Town were playing Radcliffe Borough, was lost with United facing legal and damages costs amounting to £135,000. Fortunately, the club received a generous loan from two of its closest supporters to avoid the club going into liquidation (at worst) or selling the Ingfield ground (at best).

James Rogers and Phil Smith swapped roles due to Smith’s work commitments with Rogers taking on the role as Chairman, a role he had previously held at Ossett Town. 2020 also saw the club declare Dimple Wells as surplus to requirements and made arrangements to surrender the lease making Ingfield the single home of the united club.

GROUND IMPROVEMENTS With the off-field rollercoaster settling down the Board progressed numerous ground improvements at Ingfield with the replacement of the pitch side barrier and installation of LED floodlights being completed in 2021 before attention turned to improving the changing room facilities which took shape in the summer of 2023 thanks to further grants from the Football Foundation.

The extension includes an additional match official room, two offices and a medical room as well as a larger, modern changing room that will become fully operational by the summer of 2024.

The Boardroom has also been strengthened in the summer of 2023 with Dawn Rogers and Kate Hennighan taking their place alongside the eight members already in place.

CLUB HISTORY UP TO NOW...

On the pitch, the first year (2018/19) was a remarkable success with attendances significantly increased from what either club had experienced previously, coupled with success on the pitch reaching the play-off semi-final and winning the County Cup, under the guidance of manager Andy Welsh.

Following the departure of Andy Welsh a couple of months in to the 2019/20 season Wayne Benn, assisted by Chick Hayward, oversaw two covid hit seasons. Hopes were high after a positive pre-season in 2021/22 with Benn reshaping the squad. The season started well with Ossett United in the top half of the table but a run of only one win in three months saw a change in the dugout at Christmas with Jas Collvier and Mark Ward taking a joint managerial role.

The season ended well with the pair unbeaten at Ingfield with seven wins and two draws but away from home inconsistent performances and results saw a ninth placed finish in only the clubs second completed season.

Colliver and Ward strengthened the squad throughout pre-season, and despite on paper the squad looking as strong as it ever had, results did not match expectations. Mark Ward resigned in September with Colliver taking sole charge before leaving the club by mutual consent the following month.

Grant Black became the clubs fourth permanent manager in October 2022, winning his first game in charge, 2-0 at the eventual play-off champions Long Eaton United and only tasting defeat twice in his first 16 games.

Results tailed off as the season ended with the club finishing in 15th place but the management team had a clear plan in place for the type of player they wanted to bring in ahead of the 2023/24 season with their and the clubs ambition being a much higher finish than recently experienced.

2023/2024 DATE

OPPONENT

COMP. RES. SCORERS

04/07/23 07/07/23 11/07/23 14/07/23 18/07/23 22/07/23 25/07/23 29/07/23

(A) HORBURY TOWN (A) ARMTHORPE TOWN (A) WORKSOP TOWN (A) TADCASTER ALBION (A) HEMSWORTH M.W (A) GOOLE (A) GARFORTH TOWN (H) WIDNES FC

FRIENDLY FRIENDLY FRIENDLY FRIENDLY

3-1 3-2 0-1 1-0 S.KELLY TROPHY 2-0 FRIENDLY 1-4 FRIENDLY 0-3 FRIENDLY 1-0

IBRAHIM, ONWUBIKO, TRIALIST D ONWUBIKO, KELLY, REANEY

05/08/23 12/08/23 15/08/23 19/08/23 22/08/23 26/08/23 28/08/23

(H) 1874 NORTHWICH (A) SHEFFIELD FC (H) DUNSTON FC (H) WYTHENSHAWE (A) ASHINGTON (H) STOCKTON TOWN (A) PONTEFRACT COLLIERIES

FA CUP NPL EAST NPL EAST FA CUP NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST

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

PETERSON (2) OWN GOAL IBRAHIM, AMPONSAH BURKE, REANEY SWALES

02/09/23 (H) MARSKE UNITED 09/09/23 (A) NORTH FERRIBY 16/09/23 (A) NEWTON AYCLIFFE 30/09/23 (H) GRIMSBY BOROUGH

FA CUP FA TROPHY NPL EAST NPL EAST

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

03/10/23 (H) GRANTHAM TOWN 07/10/23 (A) CONSETT 10/10/23 (H) HORBURY TOWN 14/10/23 (H) CARLTON TOWN 28/10/23 (A) STOCKSBRIDGE P.S

NPL EAST NPL EAST COUNTY CUP NPL EAST NPL EAST

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

04/11/23 11/11/23 20/10/23 25/11/23 28/11/23

NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST COUNTY CUP

09/12/23 (H) WINTERTON RANGERS 16/12/23 (A) DUNSTON FC 22/12/23 (H) SHEFFIELD FC 26/12/23 (A) LIVERSEDGE 30/12/23 (H) PONTEFRACT COLLIERIES

NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST

06/01/24 (A) STOCKTON TOWN 10/01/24 (A) CLEETHORPES TOWN 13/01/24 (H) ASHINGTON 20/01/24 (H) STOCKSBRIDGE P.S 27/01/24 (A) BRIGHOUSE TOWN

NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST

(A) NORTH FERRIBY (H) HEBBURN TOWN (H) BRIGHOUSE TOWN (H) BRIDLINGTON TOWN (A) BARNOLDSWICK TOWN

MOM

ATT 450

JOHN ROBSON, ONWUBIKO WOODCOCK MILLER

MILLER EDWARDS (2), AMPONSAH

212 PETERSON WOODCOCK BURKE GREEN COATES

392 321 271 327 553 323 432

MILLER GREEN PLATER MCLOUGHLIN

321 472 158 357

PLATER IBRAHIM, LIPKA REANEY, LIPKA

REANEY

PETERSON

ROBSON

168 377 744 346 202

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

PETERSON LIPKA, GREGORY (2), FERREIRA AMPONSAH MILLER PLATER (3), PETERSON

OMBANG OMBANG MILAMBO PLATER

521 283 255 335 111

4-2 0-2

SWALES (2), PLATER, PETERSON

PETERSON LIPKA

218 204

2023/2024 DATE

OPPONENT

COMP. RES. SCORERS

03/02/24 06/02/24 10/02/24 17/02/24 24/02/23

(H) NEWTON AYCLIFFE (A) GUISLEY (A) BELPER TOWN (A) GRIMSBY BOROUGH (H) CONSETT

NPL EAST COUNTY CUP NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST

02/03/24 16/03/24 23/03/24 30/03/24

(A) CARLTON TOWN (A) WINTERTON RANGERS (H) BELPER TOWN (A) GRANTHAM TOWN

NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST

01/04/24 (H) LIVERSEDGE 06/04/24 (A) HEBBURN TOWN 13/04/24 (H) NORTH FERRIBY 20/04/24 (A) BRIDLINGTON TOWN 27/04/24 (H) CLEETHORPES TOWN

NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST NPL EAST

MOM

ATT

Man In The Middle Name: Sam Bragg Refereeing Journey: Having grown up in West Yorkshire, Sam completed his refereeing course at the age of 16 in Todmorden, hosted by local Ossett referee Bobby Madley.

He began refereeing open-age football shortly after, and continued to do so whilst at University in Cardiff where he studied Physiotherapy.

Since returning to Yorkshire, he is now working for the NHS in Leeds and has progressed up the refereeing ladder over the last 5 years; and is looking to push his career in refereeing as far as possible.

TALE OF THE TAPE SEASON STATS

CLUB STATISTICIAN – GEOFFERY PYKE

Man of the Match Awards

Leading Goalscorers

Player

League

Cup

Total

Player

League

Cup

Total

Harry Coates

3

0

3

Alex Peterson

3

3

6

Rhys Plater

2

1

3

Rhys Plater

1

3

4

Joe Green

1

1

2

Darryl Ombang

2

0

2

Desmond Amponsah

3

0

3

Alex Peterson

1

1

2

Kelan Swales

3

0

3

Jeremie Milambo

2

0

2

Janni Lipka

2

1

3

Diego Edwards

2

0

2

PITCHING-IN NPL EAST MATCH GRID

FOOTBALL WEB PAGES

Joe GREEN Darryl OMBANG Fabian BAILEY Jimmy BURKE Harry COATES Jacob McLOUGHLIN Shane KILLOCK Jeremie MILAMBO Corey GREGORY Rhys PLATER Rafa FERREIRA Derry ROBSON Janni LIPKA Tom CLAISSE TJ IBRAHIM Desmond AMPONSAH Kelan SWALES Sam KELLY Alex PETERSON

Jordan PIERREPONT Edd HALL Alfie SMITH Riley NOBLE Sam GREENHOUSE Corey GLAVES Reece FIELDING Connor CUTTS Rory COLEMAN Stephen BROGAN Bradley BEATSON Ted CRIBLEY Harry MITCHELL Adam WATSON Jamie YATES Marc NEWSHAM Benefit NDLOVU Nathan MODEST Luke MANGHAM Cameron JOHNSON Luke ALDRICH

SHIRTS: SKY BLUE SHORTS: NAVY SOCKS: NAVY GK: ALL PINK

SHIRTS: RED & BLACK SHORTS: BLACK SOCKS: BLACK GK: ORANGE

MATCH OFFICIALS AR1 FOITOS SKOUTAS

REFEREE SAMUEL BRAGG

AR2

DECLAN O’REAGAN