Issue 22 hitchin Town

ST NEOTS TOWN Hitchin Town ISSUE 22: THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY MAGAZINE £1.50 The Evo-Stik League Southern Premier Division

Recruitment and Development Partners

St Neots Town FC Scholarship Programme in Partnership With St Neots Learning and Sports Academy open to all post 16 year old boys Scholarship programme based at St Neots Town FC

Trial Dates: Wednesday 17th Feb 2016 Registration 10.30am for 11.00am Start Venue St Neots Town FC NB: Trials will be held on the 3G astro Educational options: Btec Level 2 , Btec Level 3 Extended National Diploma, A Levels English and Maths GCSE Re-sits available

To register your interest email info@stneotslearningandsportsacademy.co.uk or call Iain on 07970851511

WELCOME A good week for the Club Good evening ladies and gentlemen and welcome back to the Premier Plus Stadium, home of St Neots Town Football Club and the Mick George Academy for tonight’s Evostik League Southern Premier Division match.

Tonight we extend a warm welcome to the players, officials and supporters of Hitchin Town Football Club and we hope you have an enjoyable, if brief, stay with us up here in St Neots this evening.

A good week for the Club in our quest to preserve our Premier Division status with four points out of a possible six gained in the past two matches. Last Tuesday saw us beat bottom of the table Bideford here 3-1 with two players, Akinyemi and Longden (pictured), scoring their first goals for the club and the latter being an absolute worldy from around thirty yards and the third goal being a thumping header from a Bideford defender into his own net. Whilst I’m pleased we sent or visitors home pointless, I do feel for them, having to leave North Devon at lunchtime, arriving at our place at 7:10pm and then expecting to return home at around 5:00am……just in time for their players to go to work.

This is non league football for God’s sake and not even the top tier of it !!!!! Surely some sense has to be used by the powers that be in the Southern League, keeping all long distance travelling to Saturdays if at all possible? Rant over…..

Saturday saw us gain a valuable point at Histon and although many were disappointed with the overall performance and result, just how important could that draw be come April? At the same time, tonight’s visitors were gaining three points at Leamington courtesy of a onenil win with Callum Donnelly scoring the vital goal after just ten minutes so I’m sure we will

be in for a cracker of a match this evening. Before I sign off, I’d like to apologise for the lack of PA announcements this evening as I am at work however normal service will resume on Saturday when we entertain Redditch United.

PUMP UP THE VOLUME Mike Green

TODAY’S VISITORS

HITCHIN TOWN Founded: 1928 Nickname: The Canaries Chairman: Terry Barrett Website: www.hitchintownfc.co.uk A very special welcome for our next Southern League Premier Division engagement with Hitchin Town our visitors this afternoon.

Last season we recorded our best ever league result against the Canaries here at the Premier Plus Stadium but despite this they went on to finish ninth in the table and record their best Step Three finish for a decade. No doubt their aim is to build on this in 2015/16 and at the time these notes were opened Hitchin was on course for further improvement - seventh with games in hand of most of the sides above them.

Two weeks ago they completed their outstanding Red Insure Cup fixture away at Cambridge City and this resulted in a surprise 1-0 defeat for the visitors. The Red Insure Cup is of course the Southern League KO Cup and our clubs have each won the trophy.

In 2005-06 the Canaries won the Cup beating Bromsgrove Rovers in the two-legged final and eight seasons later we beat Tiverton Town to claim the trophy. Last season’s 6-2 league result here in our favour was quite a match.

Lee Clarke’s first half hat trick was almost cancelled out by two Hitchin strikes before the break but then three further second half goals from Drew Roberts (2) and Lewis Hilliard clinched a great result for our lads. This is to be our first meeting with the Canaries this season with the return fixture scheduled for 23rd April – the final Saturday of the season by which time we should be celebrating our Premier Division survival and Hitchin could be looking to progress into the play-offs.

Club History It was not until 1928 that Hitchin Town FC was formed, and it was at this point that the nickname, “The Canaries”, was established.

The club colours of yellow and at that time, blue, were also agreed upon. Prior to that, the old club played in white and magenta.

The 1930s were halcyon days for Hitchin Town. Promotion to the Spartan Premier was won in 1931, but it was the FA Amateur Cup and AFA Senior Cup that captured the imagination of the Hitchin public..

The club won the AFA Senior Cup in 1932, beating Derbyshire Amateurs in the final and in 1935, won the Spartan League Premier

Division. The club entered the Athenian League in 1939 returning to that league after the war. In 1953-54, the runners-up spot in the Athenian League was secured and the club reached the last eight of the FA Amateur Cup, losing 10-1 to the mighty Crook Town.

Two years later, a crowd of 7,878 watched Hitchin beat Wycombe Wanderers 1-0 in the competition, but the club failed to progress beyond the quarter-finals again.

The Canaries reached the FA Cup competition proper four times – in 1973-74, 1974-75, 1976-77 and 1978-79, although a giant-killing

eluded them. In 1973-74, nonleague Boston beat Hitchin 1-0 in the second round, depriving them of a lucrative tie with Derby County. Cambridge beat Hitchin in the first round a year later, and in 1976, Swindon finally saw off Hitchin 3-1 after a 1-1 draw at Top Field in the second round. In 1978, Bournemouth beat Hitchin 2-1 in the first round. By the end of the decade, though, the club was in decline and the 1980s was a dismal decade in which finances were limited and the emphasis was on youth.

After 40 years in the Isthmian League Hitchin moved to the Southern League in 2004/05 and have had six of the eight years since then in the Premier Division.

After a poor start to the 2008-09 season the club was relegated at the end of the campaign. Hitchin enjoyed a successful 2009-10, winning 31 of 42 league games but had to enter the play-offs for the second promotion place.

Sadly, the young Canaries ran out of steam and lost the play-off semi-final to Slough, a team that finished 23 points behind Hitchin!

However the following season Hitchin beat Slough and Daventry in the play-offs to claim the second promotion spot. In their first season back in the Premier, Hitchin enjoyed some bright moments, notably beating eventual champions Brackley and promotion chasing AFC Totton and Cambridge City. The final placing of 14th was considered satisfactory and the club came into 2013-14 looking to improve on that showing.

WHO’S WHO ALASAN ANN 21 year old Team Captain who first signed for Hitchin at the start of the 2013/14 season as a forward.

Moved to St Neots briefly last season before returning to Top Field where he successfully converted to the centre back position and is now established in our back line. Hails from the Gambia. Joint holder of the Supporters’ Player of the Year award for 2014/15.

SAM BAKER 23 year old Sam is a holding Central Midfield player with a good range of passing. Signed for Hitchin Town at the beginning of the 2013/14 season from Chesham United. Originally came through the successful youth system at Luton Town FC. JOSH BICKERSTAFF 4 year old versatile Defender who is equally comfortable at left back or in central defence, and can also play in midfield. First signed for Hitchin in March 2011, spent last season at St Neots Town and rejoined the Canaries for a second spell in this close season. Josh is a teacher by profession. Previous club was Stotfold.

ROBBIE BURNS 24 year old midfielder/striker who has just signed for a third spell with the Canaries. Spent much of last season with Rugby Town. Has had professional experience with Tranmere Rovers, for whom he made two League starts in 2008-09, and was also a squad member at Leicester City. Previous non-league clubs also include Nuneaton Borough and Cambridge City.

DAVID CORRAN 29 year old left sided defender who signed for Hitchin early in 2014. Left briefly for a spell with Arlesey Town in January 2015 but returned to Hitchin two months later. Previously with Ware FC. BRETT DONNELLY 33 year old striker who signed in July 2014 from Biggleswade Town for his second spell with Hitchin Town. Previous clubs include Barton Rovers, Arlesey Town and Stotfold FC. CALLUM DONNELLY 26 year old Midfielder who returned to the club in September 2014 after a short spell with Cambridge City.

Has made over 200 appearances for

Hitchin Town. Previous clubs include Stotfold and Barton Rovers.

CHARLIE HORLOCK 20 year old goalkeeper who spent last season on loan with the Canaries from Wycombe Wanderers, and had some outstanding performances.

Following his release from Wycombe in the close season, he has now signed for the Canaries.

MICHAEL JOHNSON 21 year old goalkeeper. Previous clubs were Stotfold and Letchworth Garden City Eagles LUCAS KIRKPATRICK 20 year old is a hungry combative midfielder who is a product of the Club’s Scholarship Scheme.

Signed at the start of the 2013/14 season, and been out on loan spells to Langford FC and then AFC Kempston Rovers. Is now an established regular in the team.

MATT LENCH 22 year old Matt joined the club at the start of the 2013/14 season from Chesham United. A young exciting talent, Matt is an attacking midfielder and can also play at full back.

SIMON MARTIN Experienced 36 year old striker, Simon signed from St Albans City at the start of the 2013/14 season, and has previously played for Hucknall Town, Cambridge City, Thurrock and Slough Town.

JONNY MCNAMARA 21 year old Jonny signed at the start of the 2014/15 season from neighbours Arlesey Town.

Competitive midfielder with an eye for goal. Formerly played for Stotfold FC and Hitchin Town Youth. Joint holder of the Supporters’ Player of the Year award for 2014/15.

STUART PEARSON 28 year old Stuart relocated to the area at the start of the 2013/14 season from the West Country.

Comfortable as either a Central Defender or Full Back, Stuart is a hardworking and competitive player who has previously played for Odd Down FC and Paulton Rovers.

LEWIS ROLFE 22 year old Lewis arrived at the club from Chesham United at the start of the 2013/14 season. A versatile player, he can play in defence or midfield. Won both the Manager’s and Players’ Player of the Season

awards for 2014/15, and was top scorer with 11 goals. He has now made over 100 appearances for Hitchin Town.

KANE SMITH 19 year old signed from Biggleswade Town in December 2014. A product of the Luton Town Academy, Signed as a midfielder, but has seized his opportunity at Right Back, and has become a regular in this position with some outstanding performances.

BEN WALSTER 1 year old left back who joined the club at the start of the 2014/15 season. Previous club was Milton Keynes Dons.

DAN WEBB 25 year old Defender who was first spotted playing for Shefford and Campton FC in the Bedfordshire League, Joined the club in 2012/13.

WILL WRIGHT Promising young 18 year old centre back who is a product of the Luton Town Academy. Made a number of appearances for Biggleswade United last season. Signed for the Canaries during the close season.

MARK BURKE Mark’s association with the club goes back to 1985 when he joined as a youngster after playing at QPR and Luton. He made more than 700 appearances for the Canaries leading them as captain to a League title in 1992/93, promotion in 1999/00 and victories against Hereford United and Bristol Rovers in the FA Cup. Mark became Manager in May 2013 after the resignation of Carl Williams.

ADAM PARKER Returned to the club as assistant manager at the start of 2013/14 having enjoyed a successful playing career at Stevenage, Hitchin Town, Aldershot Town and Thurrock.

Previously coached at Chesham United and has Managed Hatfield Town.

STEVE CONROY Steve has a long association with the club and returned in early 2014 to assist with coaching. Played for the Canaries in the early 90’s and appeared on Match Of The Day after our famous FA Cup win against Hereford United.

Scorelines..

A brief round up of the recent results from the teams that matter Premier Division 13 February 2016 With Poole Town again not in action, second placed Chippenham Town missed the chance of going top when, after going behind in the fourth minute, they conceded a late goal to go down 2-0 at home to Kettering Town while Redditch United converted a penalty four minutes from time to move into third place with a 1-0 home victory over Chesham United and Hitchin Town returned to the play-off places in fourth position when a goal after ten minutes was sufficient to secure a 1-0 win at Leamington but Dunstable Town dropped to sixth when a goal in each half gave Kings Lynn Town a 2-0 away success. Slough Town converted a penalty on the half hour and doubled their lead on the stroke of half time to set up a 2-1 away victory at Dorchester Town while Biggleswade Town found themselves two down a minute into the second half but turned things around to secure a 4-3 home win over Stratford Town but Cirencester Town, ahead from the spot just after the hour mark, were held to a 1-1 home draw

when third from bottom Frome Town equalised with twenty minutes remaining.

St Neots Town were held to a 0-0 draw at Histon but Cambridge City, a goal up at fifteen minutes but pegged back four minutes later, slipped to a 4-3 defeat at fourth from bottom Bedworth United while the games between Bideford and Merthyr Town, Hungerford Town and Weymouth, and second from bottom Paulton Rovers and leaders Poole Town were all called off because of waterlogged pitches.

Town while Godalming Town scored three times in the second half to inflict a 3-0 home defeat on Bedford Town. In the only other game to beat the weather, Uxbridge, who had taken a first half lead, conceded an equaliser twenty minutes from time but struck a minute from time to win 2-1 at home against bottom of the table North Greenford United.

Division One Central 13 February 2016 Leaders AFC Rushden & Diamonds were held to a 0-0 draw at Fleet Town while Kings Langley, trailing at the interval, scored twice in the second half to win 2-1 at

home against second from bottom Leighton Town and moved into second place replacing St Ives Town who slipped to a surprise 1-0 home defeat when lowly Aylesbury United struck two minutes from time while fourth in the table Royston Town were held to a 1-1 draw at last placed North Greenford United. Egham Town scored in time added on to win 1-0 at Potters Bar Town and moved back into the play-off places replacing Chalfont St Peter who went behind after just two minutes and were defeated 2-0 at Beaconsfield SYCOB while Northwood went ahead on the stroke of half time before going on to complete a comfortable 3-0 win at Uxbridge but Aylesbury lost 1-0 when hosts Bedford Town struck in the first half whereas Arelsey Town, behind at the interval, scored with a minute remaining to secure a 1-1 home draw with Godalming Town.

Ware, goalless at the break, struck three times in the second half to secure a 3-1 home win over Petersfield Town but Barton Rovers conceded a goal in time added on to go down 1-0 to visiting Hanwell Town.

Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division (21.02.15) ST NEOTS TOWN

6

For the second time at home this season St Neots hit six goals and that was thanks in the main to Lee Clarke making only his fourth appearance for his side and inspiring them to an important home victory over Hitchin with a hat trick in just 17 minutes in the first half.

OHe became only the second St Neots player to claim a treble this season after being switched to lead the attack for the first time. With Nathan Frater and Lorenzo Ferrari both injured, Clarke clearly relished his role and although it was disappointing to concede two goals the overall performance was solid and convincing.

Returning to the club on loan from Luton Town after just three appearances last season Brett Longden was impressive operating wide right and leading scorer Drew Roberts helped himself to two more goals as Hitchin crumbled in the second half. St Neots began strongly and could have scored three times in the first five minutes. An opportunist volley by Clarke in the first attack was juggled by visiting keeper Charlie Horlock before being cleared and then Clarke set up Lewis Hilliard who shot was pushed away at full stretch by the keeper.

Matt Spring then curled a free

HITCHIN TOWN

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kick around the defensive wall beating the keeper but his shot deflected off a post.

However St Neots was not going to be denied for long and after 16 minutes from another Spring free kick Clarke found space at the far post to head home. He then doubled the lead three minutes later after the unfortunate Horlock had spilled a shot from Hilliard and from another free kick Bruce Wilson sent a shot over the bar.

Hitchin responded against the run of play when from their first real attack Paul Bastock racing from his line could only parry a cross and Lucas Kirkpatrick reduced the arrears with a skilful chip into the unguarded net. However the two goal cushion was quickly restored as Clarke at the near post got a flick on a Hilliard cross that had eluded the goalkeeper and despite the best efforts to clear on the line by a defender an eagle eyed Assistant Referee ruled that the ball was over the line and Clarke’s hat trick was completed. Two minutes before the break St Neots received a wake up call when Matt Lench took full advantage of some hesitant defending to make the score 3-2 after an entertaining first half.

to follow as St Neots almost completely dominated the second 45 minutes. Ten minutes after the restart a cross from the right by Matt Spring eluded the defence and Lewis Hilliard swept a low shot into the net to add to St Neots lead. Jack Wilkinson did well to block a fierce volley as Hitchin sought to stay in the match but after 68 minutes a fifth St Neots goal all but settled the outcome. It came from a long throw into the six yards box by Jack Wilkinson and when Horlock fumbled the ball ace poached Drew Roberts was quickly in to take full advantage. Now Hitchin looked a well beaten side and to add the icing on the cake Roberts added the final goal when left unmarked by the tiring visiting defence. He bided his time allowing the keeper to come out to narrow the angle before hitting a fierce shot in off the underside of the cross bar.

If the first half had cheered the local supporters better was

Goals: Lee Clark 3 (16, 19 & 33 mins), Drew Roberts 2 (68 and 80 mins), Lewis Hilliard (55 mins)

St Neots: Bastock, Tann, Wilkinson, Wilson, Mitchel-King, Ward, Hilliard, Spring, Clarke, Roberts, Longden Subs: Harty (for Wilson 65), Bickerstaff (for Hilliard 68), Vieira (for Clarke 83), Hobbs and Frater (R) Cards: Clarke (Y – 18)

ST NEOTS TOWN 3 BIDEFORD AFC 1 Southern League Premier Division / 09.02.2016 / Attendance: 167 / Referee: Sam Lewis (Ampthill)

Dipo Akinyemi, making only his second appearance in St Neots colors set The Saints on the way to a vital victory over bottom of the league Bideford.

With the sides in the relegation zone now picking up points St Neots needed to climb further away from the scrap at the bottom and although they were expected to beat a side that had to make a 500 miles Tuesday evening round trip for this match, the pleasing thing was the manner in which the victory was secured.

St Neots refused to show anxiety when their first half superior possession failed to produce a goal and they bossed the second half despite the visitors showing an improvement once the goals started to come.

Another plus was that recovering Drew Roberts played only his second full match coming through without any problems and now as match fitness returns he could be a key figure in St Neots aim to retain their slot at Step Three. Roberts’ inclusion in the starting line-up for youngster Claudio Ofosu and the return in goal of Andy Wilton for the injured Ben Jackson were the only team changes from the weekend.

There was a slow start to the match with Dipo Akinyemi shooting wide from distance

at one end and Billy Tucker repeating the feat at the other.

However, St Neots soon settled and played some attractive football that just lacked the finishing touch. Around the quarter hour mark, the home side won five successive corners as Bideford struggled to clear their lines and from the fifth Jamie Anton sent a Drew Roberts cross narrowly over the bar. After eighteen minutes as St Neots continued to dominate both Peter Clark and Tom Meechan both forced excellent saves from visiting goalkeeper Kyle Moore whilst Bideford’s only reply was a 30 yards’ free kick by Stephen Reed that sailed harmlessly over the crossbar. Meechan saw a shot deflected after 32 minutes and from the resultant Roberts’ corner Tom Ward headed against the crossbar.

Meechan, in full flight towards goal, was then brought down

by Billy Tucker earning the Bideford player a booking and the goalless first half ended with Ward bringing a useful save from Moore following a Josh Dawkin free kick.

Three goals in the first ten minutes of the second half livened up the match. After three minutes Tom Meechan went

close with a shot that fizzed across the goal after good work

by Josh Dawkin and a minute later St Neots determination was rewarded when Peter Clark fed a perfectly weighted through ball on the right and Dipo Akinyemi sidestepped a rash challenge by onrushing goalkeeper Moore to turn and slot the ball into the empty net from a narrow angle.

Four minutes later Brett Longden won the ball in his own half and went down the left before cutting into the centre to unleash a fierce right footed shot into the roof of the net.

Two minutes later St Neots were guilty of losing concentration as they failed to cut out a cross and Kevin Squire turned the ball into the net to halve the deficit.

However, this was only a temporary setback as the home side were soon dictating play again with Clark, Roberts and Longden all close to increasing their lead. The clinching goal came fifteen minutes from time when the under pressure Chris McGrath turned a teasing Dawkin corner into his own net and there was no way back for the travel weary visitors as St Neots easily saw out time.

St Neots Town Wilton, Casey, Longden, Tann, Ward, Anton, Roberts, Clark (P), Meechan, Akinyemi, Dawkin Subs: Ofosu (for Akinyemi 72), Lewis (D) (for Meechan 87), Hobbs, Muya and Jeckells Cards: Longden 9 (Y – 71) Goals: Akinyemi (49 mins), Longden (53 mins), McGrath OG (75 mins)

HISTON 0 ST NEOTS TOWN 0 Southern League Premier Division / 13.02.2016 / Attendance: 293 / Referee: Michael George (Norwich)

Neither side really wanted to surrender two points in this tightly fought derby match but in the end a draw was a fair result given that St Neots dominated the first half and Histon looked slightly better after the break.

So, St Neots stayed six points ahead of their hosts with two games in hand but with two of the four sides in the relegation zone picking up points neither can afford to relax. St Neots have thirteen matches to play but still need a minimum of six or seven points to guarantee likely survival and the real bonus was the clean sheet – their first since November 3rd.

With four key players still injured St Neots were without Tom Meechan and Jamie Anton in addition for this match but there was a first ever senior start for Junior Moya – another product of the Club’s youth system. In the second half Erhan Nurettin, another of the U18 players in the squad also made a debut substitute appearance along with Dan Hobbs and Claudio Ofosu so all are gradually gaining valuable experience at the higher level. As early as the second minute St Neots looked to be denied a certain penalty when Brett Longden burst into the penalty area to be upended but the Referee waved play on.

Operating a 4-4-2 formation St Neots showed early initiative as Josh Dawkin brought a good save from home keeper Denzel Gerrar and joining the attack

again Longden fired over the bar. After 20 minutes the home keeper then had to dive bravely at the feet of Dawkin who had weaved his way past two defenders and then a Roberts cross fed Dawkin whose effort was deflected by a defender. It was 25 minutes before Histon had their first real chance created by what could have been an expensive error. Under no real pressure, Tom Ward sliced a clearance to the feet of the unmarked Joe Carden and his shot across Andy Wilton rebounded from the inside of the far post to be scrambled clear.

St Neots playing some good close passing football created more chances as Longden shot wide and Muya tested Gerrar with a cross from the bye line.

Carden then got behind the St Neots defence to bring a good save from Andy Wilton and the first half ended with George Casey forcing Gerrar to touch his dipping shot over the cross bar. Histon had been playing with a lone striker in the first half and St Neots changed their tactics after the break leaving Drew Roberts alone up front with substitutes Dan Hobbs and Claudio Ofosu in what became a crowded

midfield. Both sides played some neat football when in possession but created very few clear chances with Roberts and Josh Oyinsan both looking isolated and lacking sufficient support to test either defence.

Former St Neots player Ryan Auger shot narrowly over the bar from distance for Histon and Roberts showed his frustration by picking up a booking for dissent after he had clearly been fouled but not compensated.

With fifteen minutes left Histon pressed forward and Oyinsan cleverly held the ball up for Nick Freeman to join him but the finish was poor. Ofosu set up Casey on the overlap but his shot was blocked and then a Freeman corner was punched away under pressure

by Wilton. The frantic end to end late search for a winning goal continued and Casey saw his shot tipped over the bar by Gerrar and in the final minute Longdon and Miles Smith clashed off the ball at a late corner and both were booked.

Already facing a two match ban for ten cautions this season this was the St Neots’ full back’s eleventh yellow card since 8th August.

St Neots Town Wilton, Muya, Longden, Tann, Ward, Smyth, Casey, Clark (P), Roberts, Akinyemi, Dawkin Subs: Ofosu (for Akinyemi 46), Hobbs (for Muya 46), Nurettin (for Dawkin 82) Rudman and Jeckells.

Cards: Tann (Y – 36), Roberts (Y – 71), Longden (Y – 90)

REMY GORDON

TOM MEECHAN

Soccer Zone & Minecra FIFA Soccer Zone Experience

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Play against your friends in our FIFA16 Soccer Zone

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Minecraft Zone Experience

Build, build, build with your friends in our Minecraft Party Zone

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Holiday clubs run during school half terms ÂŁ25 per child per day

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Both Party Zones are available to hire for kids and adult parties

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Please note, we are limited to 30

To Reserve your place, complete this fo St Neots Learning a St Neots Town FC | Kester Way

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aft Zone - Holiday Clubs

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orm and post together with payment to: and Sports Academy y | St Neots | Cambs | PE19 6SN

d Sports Academy Ltd ays Lane, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 2HR mber: 09779956

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@Saints_Dev

CHAIRMANS’ VIEWS Good evening and welcome to the Premier Plus Stadium.

The last two matches have been against opposition that are in a similar position to the one we find ourselves in. Bideford at home was a good all-round performance with the second half being stronger than the first, Histon away was by all accounts a poor display. Andy called me straight after the game and was very honest with his appraisal of team as a whole.

We are aware that at present the bench is weaker than we would like but having a number of contracted players still injured or unavailable means that we are trying to juggle things around a little. In the last few weeks we have enlisted the services of Pete Clark and Josh Dawkins for much needed creativity in the middle of the park, this together with the exceptional

RYAN HAWKINS

George Casey and Matty Smyth have helped us considerably taking into consideration the departure of two key defenders.

Remy Gordon will not be rushed back into the side under any circumstances, we have very high hopes for him and so will always be mindful that his health is our health, he’s under contract with us for next season as is Ryan Hawkins. These two lads have all the potential in the world and we want to make sure we give them an environment that suits their ability.

We have picked up two wins, a draw and two losses in the last five games, this is still below our level of expectation but this is a vast improvement on what went on in the previous months. It’s not about pulling up tree’s it’s about working towards safety trying to play a brand of football that is attractive and installing a winning mentality that allows us to breathe a little easier.

We are fully focused on this season, next season is a million miles away, and even when (fingers crossed) we become mathematically safe we will continue to strive to improve on what’s gone before and finish the season as high up the league as we can.

Pre-season will be the time to make decisions on who we want to stay with the club and who we are happy to release. All lads in the current squad merit a conversation especially the more experienced ones, however any signs that commitment to the cause is not at the forefront of their minds will be dealt with as it would be in any other business.

Right onto tonight’s game, let’s hope the bring a mate double the gate offer is taken up by many, our success is your success Lee

Recruitment and Development Partners

St Neots Town Ladies FC Elite Scholarship programme in Partnership With Stevenage Ladies FC open to all post 16 year old Girls Scholarship programme based at St Neots Town FC

Trial Dates: Wednesday 17th Feb 2016 Registration 6.30pm for 7.00pm Start Venue St Neots Town FC NB: Trials will be held on the 3G astro To register your interest email info@stneotslearningandsportsacademy.co.uk or call Iain on 07970851511 Educational options: Btec Level 2 , Btec Level 3 Extended National Diploma, A Levels English and Maths GCSE Re-sits available

Recruitment and Development Partners

St Neots Town FC Elite Scholarship Programme in Partnership With Stevenage FC

open to all post 16 year old boys Scholarship programme based at St Neots Town FC in Partnership with Stevenage FC

Trial Dates: Wednesday 17th Feb 2016 Registration 10.30am for 11.00am Start Venue St Neots Town FC NB: Trials will be held on the 3G astro Educational options: Btec Level 2 , Btec Level 3 Extended National Diploma, A Levels English and Maths GCSE Re-sits available

To register your interest email info@stneotslearningandsportsacademy.co.uk or call Iain on 07970851511

Gregory Suite Suitable For Wedding venues / receptions & evening party's Conference and business meeting facilities Party Celebrations young and old Large funeral wakes (free room Hire) Event hire Trade & Craft Fares etc Fitness classes Music events Presentation events Stage productions Baby Classes Details Private and separate from the football - holds up to 250 people(120 seated) A large impressive bar serving a vast range of beers, ciders, wines & soft drinks We cater for all food requirements including Buffet menu's, Sit down Meals, Hog Roasts, Barbeques, Traditional Fish and Chips Stage area for bands, disco, and productions A large roomy dance floor perfect for any wedding reception Comfy dining furniture configured to suit requirements This party venue can be dressed / decorated to suit the celebration Friendly and experienced St Neots staff Door staff if required Plenty of parking Very adaptable...

How Much Gregory Function Suite Day Hire Hourly rate - £30 Evening Parties £350 Day/Evening Weddings £500 Food and beverage POA All our facilities are wheel chair accessible.

We do have a large projector in the Gregory Suite that can be used for corporate events Call 01480 470012 or email stneotstownfunctions@stneotstownfc.co.uk

Reedmans Suite

Suitable For Smaller Wedding venues / receptions & evening party's Smaller Conference and business meeting facilities Party Celebrations young and old funeral wakes (free room Hire) Event hire Trade & Craft Fares etc Fitness classes Music events Presentation events Baby Classes Details Private and separate from the football - holds up to 80 people A modern bar serving a vast range of beers, ciders, wines & soft drinks We cater for all food requirements including Buffet menu's, Sit down Meals, Hog Roasts, Barbeques, Traditional Fish and Chips Disco area Small dance floor perfect for any party or small wedding reception Comfy dining furniture configured to suit requirements This party venue can be dressed / decorated to suit the celebration Friendly and experienced St Neots staff Door staff if required Plenty of parking Very adaptable...

How Much Reedmans Function Suite Day Hire Hourly rate - ÂŁ25 Evening Parties ÂŁ150 Day/Evening Weddings POA Food and beverage POA All our facilities are wheel chair accessible.

We do have a two large TV's and remote projector in the Reedmans Suite that can be used for corporate events Call 01480 470012 or email stneotstownfunctions@stneotstownfc.co.uk

TOM MEECHAN

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Details correct up to and including Saturday 6th February

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Akinyemi Dipo Anton Jamie Beech Josh Blackett Shane Burton Ben Casey George (L) Clark Peter Clarke Lee Dawkin Josh Frater Ryan Galliford Isaac (L) Gay Danny Gordon Remy Hall Connor Hawkins Ryan Hobbs Dan Horne Ryan (L) Jackson Ben (L) Jones Ben Lewis Dan Lewis CJ Longden Brett Meechan Tom Muya Junior Mitchel-King Matt Nurettin Erhan Ofosu Claudio Roberts Drew Smyth Matthew (L) Sutton Ollie Sweeney Robbie (L) Tann Adam Vieira Luis Ward Tom Wilton Andy Wilkinson Jack

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ST NEOTS TOWN FIRST TEAM PLAYER STATS 2015/16 St Neots Town First Team Player Stats 2015/16

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READ ALL ABOUT IT We take a look at what other non-league clubs are doing that’s making the news this week.

CHIPPENHAM TOWN Chippenham join forces with Wootton Bassett to create new Academy Chippenham Town and Hellenic League Premier Division club Royal Wootton Bassett Town have joined forces to create a new football academy. The Academy will launch ahead of the 2016/17 season and is ready to start recruiting its first batch of players.

Adopting the motto `Football for the present, Education for the future’, the Academy will provide those involved with high-quality football coaching along with the opportunity to gain a valuable BTEC Level 2 or 3 qualification in Sport (Development, Coaching and Fitness).

Both clubs have worked closely with Wiltshire College, the largest educational provider in the county, to provide sport course provision at Level 2 & 3 for 16 to 18-yearold boys and an excellent football environment, leading to professional, non-league, and overseas opportunities for those suitable as well as higher educational provision for those more suited to academics.

Chippenham Chairman Neil Blackmore said: “This is a chance for our club to move forward with Wiltshire College and their fantastic facilities at Stanley Park” and Andy Walduck, Chairman of Royal Wootton Bassett, added “As a community club, we see this as

the next step in our provision for our young player pathway and any who wish to join the scheme.”

An information evening outlining the plans for the Academy will be held on Thursday at Royal Wootton Bassett’s new Gerrard Buxton Sports Ground.

Wiltshire College Head of Football Mike Byrne said “These are great opportunities for local young players to train and play like professionals and learn in the process. The community links are crucial for the college and a guarantee of quality and commitment from the largest educational provider in the county will guarantee piece of mind to players and parents alike.”

NON-LEAGUE FINALS DAY Tickets on-sale for NonLeague Finals Day Tickets to the first ever NonLeague Finals Day at Wembley Stadium on Sunday 22 May are on sale now - with child tickets available from just £1.

The Wembley showpiece will host both The FA Vase and FA Trophy, with tickets priced at £25 for adults, £10 for concessions and just £1 for children under-16s. There is also a group rate, perfect for schools and clubs, of £12.50 for adults, £5 for concessions and £1 for children. Tickets are available from TheFA.com/tickets or call 0844 826 2010. The day will provide an opportunity to

showcase the world-leading English non-league system, recognise the 500 teams to have taken part in this season’s Vase and 276 in the Trophy, and celebrate the grassroots game, through activities and fan engagement during the day.

Fans will be allowed to pass in and out of the stadium to see exhibitions, information and examples of The FA’s work in the wider game including, FA Education, Refereeing, Women’s Super League and grassroots women and girl’s football, Skills, Disability and Walking Football, Facility Improvement, Club Development, League Development, Respect, County Associations, Technology and Volunteer Recruitment. BT Sport will broadcast both fixtures with the FA Vase kicking off at 12.15pm and the FA Trophy at 4.15pm. This year, The FA Non-League Finals Day will also be working closely with Sport Relief as charity partner for the day. For each booking (not ticket), the option will be given to donate £2.50 to Sport Relief.

Last March in The FA Trophy, in front of the BT cameras, North Ferriby United triumphed 5-4 on penalties against Wrexham, following a dramatic 3-3 draw.

It was the Villagers’ first ever triumph in the competition in their history. Then in May Glossop North End and North Shields battled out The FA Vase in front of over 10,000 fans, with the side from the north-east being victorious 2-1 after extra time.

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Goalkeepers Andrew Wilton Ollie Sutton Defenders Brett Longden Adam Tann (Captain) Tom Ward Jamie Anton Ryan Frater Midfielders Ryan Hawkins Lee Clarke Mat Mitchel-King Guy Mailamcol Remy Gordon Issac Galliford

Line Up From: Charlie Horlock Kane Smith Ben Walster Alasan Ann Dan Webb Lewis Rolfe Jonny McNamara Callum Donnelly (Captain) Brett Donnelly Robbie Burns Lucas Kirkpatrick Mason Spence Michael Johnson Will Wright Dominic Palmiero

Forwards Drew Roberts Tom Meechan Luis Viera Claudio Ofosu

Kieran Barnes

Colours Dark Blue Shirts, Shorts & Socks

Colours Yellow Shirts, Green Shorts & Socks

The match line up will be displayed on the electronic scoreboard Referee: David Avent Assistant 1: Samuel Brough Assistant 2: Martyn Gospel

Next Home Game: Redditch United Evostik League Southern Premier Division Saturday 20th February / KO 15:00

As a Club we support Grass Roots Football and stand firm against racism within football, visit www.thefa.com for more information on playing your part.