Saints vs Bedford Town

The Official Matchday Magazine

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Tuesday 26th November 2013 Kick-Off 19.45pm

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WELCOME

Welcome to Rowley Park - The Cozy Stadium and to the latest edition of the Saints Matchday Magazine, enjoy great football, great hospitality and a great read.

Club Honours

Inside This Issue 03 Management Notes 04 Action Replay 05 Uhlsport Feature 08/09 Match Report 10/11 Player Profile 12 Greenies Greetings 14 Greatest Matches Ever 16 A Blast From The Past 17 Chairmans’ Views 18/21 Opponent Feature 22/23 Pull Out Poster 24 The Beautiful Game 27 Fan Feature

28 30 31 32 33 35 37 38 39 40/41 42 44

Weird Football Stories Football Funnies Mascot Feature Game For A Laugh Fixtures Matrix Fixtures Information The Non-League Paper League Focus Non-League Club News Season Statistics League Table The Teams

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Division One champions, 1 time United Counties League Premier Division champions, 2 times Division One champions, 1 time League Cup winners, 2 times Metropolitan League Champions, 1 time League Cup winners, 1 time Professional Cup winners, 1 time South Midlands League Champions, 1 time Huntingdonshire League Champions, 4 times

Club Officials

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Southern Football League

Owner Mike Kearns Chairman Mike Kearns Managing Director Lee Kearns Director Iain Parr Joint First Team Managers Gary King / Zema Abbey Assistant First Team Manager Nathan Abbey Club Secretary Gary Wilson Fixture Secretary Marian Izzard Treasurer Keith Gotch Life President John Walker Life Vice-Presidents Ena Kester Jack Blyth

Huntingdonshire Senior Cup Mel Hancock Ken Harris David Mackian Terry Reedman Stuart Walters Team Officials Ben Watts (Assistant Coach) Richard King (Goalkeeping Coach) Youth Liaison & Development Mick Hunt Physio Carol Holland St Neots Town TV Editor Adam Ridley Club Merchandise Linda Walters Programme Editor Mark Davies Functions and Events Coordinator Louise Spark

Site Manager Irmantas Sabaliauskas

Winners, 37 times

Chief Liaison Officer Mike Green

Winners, 2 times

Club Photographer Claire Howes Assistant Photographer Paulo Soares

Hinchingbrooke Cup

Club Information

Programme Sales Charlie Green

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Matchday Music / Scoreboard Simon Hutchinson

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MANAGEMENT NOTES All the latest news at www.stneotstownfc.co.uk

A Terrific Spirit Gary King Good Evening everybody and welcome to our opponents today Bedford Town FC.

We have to be ready for the fact that Bedford are going to come to St Neots and raise their game and some people will be looking at this match as a six pointer so early in the season. For me, it is about us, how we prepare and play, we have to make sure we work hard and do the right things, play the way we want to play and take our chances.

I personally don’t believe that winning this game will guarantee our safety or that losing it would seal our fate there are simply too many games left for that to be the case. It is up to us to go out there and make sure we are the ones smiling come 10 o’clock tonight.

with twenty minutes left their keeper made a great save from Matty Nolan – if that goes in we are taking all three points against a top side.

Of course, there is still a lot of work to be done in all areas of our game and we are working really hard as a unit to turn this around.

Two great additions in Nathan Abbey and Michael Frew to our playing squad this week means that we now have the luxury of a strong bench.

All successful sides have strong benches and it is of great comfort to the management team to be able to turn to the bench in order that, when called upon, whoever it is can make an impact and can change the

direction of a game. I felt St Albans were beat at 2-1 until their double substitution was made with twenty minutes left.

Unfortunately, Ed picked up a knee injury on Saturday (ligaments) so we expect him to be out until maybe the Christmas period and we will lose Jay Davies for three games following his red card against St Albans.

As ever, we will be giving it our all this evening so get behind the lads and enjoy the game.

‘Kingy’

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I must say that there is a terrific spirit around the place at the moment, both on and off the pitch, and a great feeling of togetherness within the playing squad and management squad, with everyone pulling in the same direction. This was never more evident than on Saturday when we entertained St Albans, a side who are currently unbeaten in the league since September, who for me where one of the better sides I have seen this season. It was disappointing to come away from a game we had put so much into with no points but by and large the players did their jobs and I felt we thoroughly deserved a minimum of one point, at 2-1 up and

I must say that there is a terrific spirit around the place at the moment, both on and off the pitch, and a great feeling of togetherness within the playing squad and management squad.

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Both sides come into tonight’s game needing to put points on the table.

My feeling is that our current league position based on the squad we currently have and our last four or five performances is a false one. That said, the league table does not lie and I see tonight’s game as an ideal opportunity to close the gap between Bedford and ourselves to one point.

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ACTION REPLAY

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This week five years ago FA Vase Round Two: 22nd November 2008 St Neots Town 6

Bluntisham Rangers 1

As expected St Neots made light work of their first fixture in the Hunts Senior Cup. Bluntisham play in the Senior ‘B’ Division of the Cambridgeshire League that is three levels below St Neots but they performed with great determination refusing to be outdone by their more senior opponents.

Although St Neots never looked like losing they took some time to break down the early resistance of their visitors and the score line would have been much greater but for a five star display by visiting keeper Gavin Roe who produced a string of excellent saves. St Neots domination came principally from midfield where Matt Bannister and Luke Knight worked tirelessly to orchestrate the performance and after two very late goals for the second consecutive week to add polish to the final score St Neots will now be relishing their trip to Hall Road, Eynesbury for their quarter final engagement in January.

Although St Neots enjoyed the bulk of early possession they made no real impact in the first twenty minutes with the visitors showing great energy and commitment.

Playing against the setting sun proved difficult and goalkeeper Roe reacted well to save shots from Declan Rogers and Luke Knight.

Bluntisham’s first real attempt on goal came after eleven minutes when Davis Rose glanced a header wide and six minutes later they could have taken a surprise lead when a shot by Lewis Heallis was deflected across goal giving Peter Silver a reaction volley but his shot clipped a defender and flew for a corner.

Bluntisham continued to defiantly take the game to St Neots and Keith Taylor saw his shot beat Chris Adams in the St Neots goal but the ball rebounded from the cross bar.

After 28 minutes St Neots made their initial breakthrough as clever work

by Luke Knight carried him to the bye line where he saw his narrow angled shot deflected for a corner.

From the set piece Declan Rogers swapped passes with Matt Bannister and unleashed a fierce cross shot that flew into the far corner of the net. Forty seconds later in the next attack the lead was doubled with a neatly constructed goal as Rogers and James Hall each touched on the ball over the defence for Luke Knight to run on to beat Roe at his near post. Roe then saved well from Pete Okechukwu and James Hall contrived to miss a simple finish set up by Okechukwu and right on half time James Hall was impeded close to goal earning visiting skipper Matt Dear a booking and a penalty award confidently converted by James Hall.

Three nil behind Bluntisham refused to succumb in the second half. Roe made excellent saves from Matt Kenneford and James Hall before the latter was substituted by Keith Thomas. Bannister sent a half volley over the bar but at the other end Chris Adams was in action blocking at the feet of Heallis after his defence had been breached. Bluntisham then sent on their full complement of substitutes in a bid to add fresh legs to a clearly tiring side and they were denied an equaliser when Adams again produced a brave save at the feet of Silver.

With thirteen minutes left St Neots effectively clinched their quarter final spot with a fourth goal as a penetrative run by Jon Hall left the visiting defence in tatters and Keith Thomas finished off from close range. Six minutes later Bluntisham got the consolation goal their performance had deserved when Alex Carson capitalised on a defensive deflection after good work

by Hayward and within three further minutes the two St Neots substitutes combined as Thomas retrieved a Kenneford cross to set up Jamie

Steele for a tap in. The final goal in the last minute was a cruel finale for the visitors as hard working skipper Matt Dear deflected the ball into his own net from a Luke Knight cross.

St Neots: Adams, McElroy (K), Jon Hall, Bannister, Dogbe, McElroy (D), Kenneford, Knight, Okechukwu, James Hall, Rogers.

Subs: Thomas (for James Hall 61 mins), Steele (for Okechukwu 73 mins), Rocco & Dyett Man of the Match: Matt Bannister

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MATCH REPORT

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Calor League Premier Division Rowley Park - The Cozy Stadium (Att 346) Saturday 23rd November 2013 - Kick Off 15:00 - Referee: Ian Rathbone (Northampton)

St Neots Town Davies pen (37 mins), Nolan (53 mins) n Davies (90) n Hilliard (90+1) Abbey, Longden, Lee, Deeney, Hoyte, Frater, Hilliard, Sharman, Woolley, Davies, Adjei Subs: Nolan (for Sharman 46 mins), Frew (for Adjei 49 mins), Wilson (for Woolley 87 mins), Ann and Conroy.

2:3

St Albans City Kaloczi 2 (36 & 59 mins), Lowe (82 mins) n Keenleyside (34) n Comley (90) Bastock, Hall, Chappell, Marwa, Kaloczi, Ward, Keenleyside, Comley, Frendo, Lowe, Watters Subs: Henry (for Keenleyside 56 mins), Ngoyi (for Watters 56 mins), Green (for Lowe 83 mins), Bailey and Wharton.

Despite producing another good team performance St Neots were beaten in the battle of the Premier Division Saints by St Albans who snatched a winning goal eight minutes from time against the run of play in this five goal thriller.

It was an even more disappointing day for the hosts who saw Ed Adjei stretchered off with a serious knee ligament injury and Jay Davies sent off for a dangerous challenge as the match moved into added time.

It was a thrill a minute match with both goalkeepers putting in excellent performances and either side could have taken all three points but coming from behind St Albans will claim to have deserved their victory.

St Neots gave a debut in goal to Assistant Manager Nathan Abbey and he produced an outstanding performance despite being beaten three times. Also making his debut as a second half substitute was striker Michael Frew on a month’s loan from Lowestoft Town.

Chances at both ends The opening half hour produced chances at both ends with Jake Woolley having a net bound shot deflected by James Kaloczi and Lewis Hilliard firing wide whilst Abbey twice denied visiting striker John Frendo. Jay Davies then burst through for St Neots to volley over the bar after a neat knock on by Woolley and Jamal Lowe missed the visitors’ best chance when clear but denied by Abbey. The deadlock

was eventually broken when James Comley floated a free kick to the far post and visiting defender James Kaloczi rose high above the defence to place a firm header wide of Abbey t0 open the scoring after 36 minutes.

St Neots response inside a minute was swift and decisive as Kaloczi fouled Jake Woolley in the area and Jay Davies stroked home the resultant penalty kick. This was no less than St Neots deserved but they had Abbey to thank for remaining in touch at the break as he produced an important block on the line to deny Frendo.

Change of tactics St Neots decided to vary their tactics after the break sending on substitute Matt Nolan in a more attacking 4-4-2 pattern with Ryan Sharman sacrificed. However just four minutes into the second half Ed Adjei went down under a strong challenge and had to be stretchered off with serious knee ligament damage. However that did not hinder St Neots play for after 53 minutes the first touch by second substitute Michael Frew set up Brett Longden on the right and his angled cross was headed in by Matt Nolan to put St Neots in front.

St Albans countered immediately by

sending on two attacking substitutes and taking the game back to their hosts. This had little immediate effect as St Neots looked defensively confident but danger man Frendo was always a threat as he brought the save of the match from Abbey before half volleying over the bar.

Ironically the Second St Albans goal after 59 minutes was a carbon copy of the first – a floated Comley free kick to the far post and another towering header from James Kaloczi to level the scores.

Dominated That seemed to spur St Neots on and for fifteen minutes they dominated with Nolan, Hilliard and Woolley all going close to putting them back ahead. Then against the run of play after 82 minutes Lee Chappell attacked with pace down the left and the ball was pulled back for Jamal Lowe to fire home a crisp shot for the winning goal.

The needless sending off in the final minutes brought down the curtain on another disappointing day for St Neots at the Cozy Stadium.

John Walker

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PLAYER PROFILE

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Edd Adjei Edd is 21 years old and a versatile left sided player who is comfortable playing at either full back or left midfield, or indeed up front as the second striker.

Edd has developed into a first-class footballer who just loves playing football.

PLAYER PROFILE

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GREENIES GREETINGS

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Competition For Places Mike Green Good evening ladies and gentlemen and welcome to Rowley Park – The Cozy Stadium, for tonight’s Calor League Premier Division game.

We hope our Twelfth Man is going to be on form tonight in what is no doubt going to be a fiercely contested local derby Tonight we extend a very warm welcome to the Players, Officials and Supporters of our near neighbours Bedford Town and hope you have an enjoyable stay with us before safely hopping over the county border.

Football can be a very harsh and unforgiving game as we have found out in our last two home league matches, losing by a late goal in both games, firstly to Biggleswade and of course, on Saturday as St Albans City took all three points in what turned out to be an exciting game which, in all honesty, could have gone either way. The game saw Nathan Abbey make his playing debut for the Saints and he

distinguished himself with at least four top class saves. Also, Michael Frew, signed on loan from Lowestoft Town on Friday, made a second half appearance and looks another good addition so it’s a slightly belated welcome to you Michael, enjoy your stay with us. Sadly though, on the flip side, Ed Adjei suffered a rather nasty looking knee injury and will be missing for a few weeks. I’ve just got to say well done to our Physio Carol and the rest of the stretcher response team who acted so quickly and professionally when responding to the PA call, TOP WORK GUYS!!!

Obviously, the result didn’t go our way but the signs are there that the

squad is good enough to climb the table and the return of key players Adrian Sear and Leon Hibbert to the squad will not only add to competition for places but add more steel and experience too. It was nice to see Matty Nolan get off the mark with a goal and to be honest, probably won’t have an easier header all season although it’s all about being in the right place at the right time and was desperately unlucky not to add number two shortly after when keeper Paul Bastock pulled off a worldy save to tip over another goal bound header. The first of many goals hopefully Matty, keep them coming please.

Just a reminder as Christmas creeps up on us ever nearer, the Club has a range of gifts available from official team wear down to hats, scarves, mugs and even pin badges so make sure you get your gifts early to avoid disappointment. Don’t forget our Under 18’s are due to be in action here on Thursday evening when they entertain Huntingdon Town in the Thurlow Nunn Youth League West Division. As ever, admission for their games is Free of Charge, what better way to spend a Thursday evening?

Finally, a quick word about the Youth and Saints Under 21 team who are currently sitting in third place in the United Counties League Division One table. Saturday saw them travel to Woodford United and return home with the three points and an eight-nil victory. A massive well done goes to Steve Kuhne, Gary Chance and all the lads on what has already been a tremendous debut season for the fledgling club. Right then, on to the action and we hope our Twelfth Man is going to be on form tonight in what is no doubt going to be a fiercely contested local derby.

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W.Germany 3 France 3

(West Germany 5-4 on pens)

#04 GREATEST FOOTBALL MATCHES EVER PLAYED! Voted for by over 1,000 supporters. Each programme we will run from 10 right down to the greatest ever football match played.

World Cup Semi-Final, Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium, Seville, July 8, 1982 “When great matches of the World Cup are recounted, there will always be a place for this remarkable duel between French skill and West German stamina.”

So ran the introduction to the match report in World Soccer’s August 1982 edition.

The Germans were down and heading out of the tournament when Alain Giresse put the French 3-1 ahead in extratime. But a goal by Karl-Heinz Rummenigge sparked one of the most staggering comebacks in the history of international football. West Germany went on to win on penalties – the first time a World Cup match had been settled by this method – six years after they had lost in a shoot-out to Czechoslovakia in the final of the 1976 European Championship.

Honours were even at half-time: Michel Platini’s penalty had cancelled out West Germany’s opener from Pierre Littbarski.

The most memorable moment of a tightly fought match came in the middle of the second half when a long ball from Platini sent defender Patrick Battiston racing clear behind the German back line. Moments after he had headed the ball towards goal from inside the penalty area,

the 98th minute, the German substitute inspired a comeback by scoring in the 102nd minute.

Klaus Fischer’s goal six minutes later – a spectacular bicycle-kick – took the match to penalties.

Both sides missed a kick, then Maxime Bossis failed to beat Schumacher, while Horst Hrubesch converted to ensure West Germany’s passage.

Line-ups keeper Harald Schumacher hurled himself at the Frenchman, foot forward, knocking his opponent unconscious and breaking two of his teeth.

The ball went just wide of the goal and, to the anger and astonishment of the French, Dutch referee Charles Corver waved play on.

In fact, play was interrupted for several minutes while Battiston, still unconscious, was carried off on a stretcher, but Schumacher remained on the pitch, and would play a crucial part in the penalty shoot-out.

West Germany’s trump card was to bring on Rummenigge in extra-time. Though France took a 3-1 lead through sweeper Marius Tresor’s splendid volley and Giresse’s 20-metre shot in

West Germany Schumacher - Kaltz, Stielike, K H Forster, Briegel (Rummenigge 95) Dremmler, Breitner, B Forster, Magath (Hrubesch 72) Littbarski, Fischer.

Goals: Littbarski 17, Rummenigge 102, Fischer 108.

France Ettori - Amoros, Janvion, Tresor, Bossis - Genghini (Battiston 50; Lopez 59), Tigana, Giresse, Platini - Rocheteau, Six Goals: Platini pen 27, Tresor 92, Giresse 98.

Penalty Shootout: Giresse, Kaltz; Amoros, Breitner; Rocheteau, Stielike (miss); Six (miss), Littbarski; Platini, Rummenigge; Bossis (miss), Hrubesch.

Referee: Corver (Holland).

Att: 60,000.

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A BLAST FROM THE PAST

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Kaká Full name: Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite Date of birth: 24/02/1940 Born in the national capital of Brasilia, Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite was always a tremendous prospect.

Developing his skills in the traditional Brazilian fashion on the streets, it wasn’t long before he made waves in the sport itself, signing a contract with São Paulo at just 15 years old (having been affiliated with the legendary side since the age of 8).

Starting out with the youth side, his impact was immediate as they picked up the Copa de Juvenil and a senior position beckoned. This duly arrived in 2001 and the young Kaká did not need a second chance, scoring consistently throughout his two seasons and even helping the club to the (now seemingly defunct) Torneio Rio-São Paulo championship in 2001.

His development physically and technically in such a short period made him a shoe-in for the national side and Kaká was duly called up for the Brazil side in 2002 against Bolivia. He also made his World Cup debut the same year, joining up with the squad and taking to the field in the tournament, although only for a cumulative 19 minutes.

By 2003 though, he was getting greater recognition, reflected in his role as captain for Brazil’s Gold Cup campaign, which ended with defeat in the final and a tournament haul of three goals for Kaká personally.

As is the way, Europe’s finest clubs were put on alert by the young forward’s abilities. This makes it even more remarkable that AC Milan needed to stump up just $8.5 million for his signature in 2003, in contrast to the $40.5 million paid by Real Betis for Denilson in 1998.

The Milanese Phenomenon Although AC Milan were the-then Champions League holders, Kaká was seemingly undaunted by the prospect of competing with the squad’s many stars. Within a month, he was entered into the first-team against Ancona and immediately impressed in their 2-0 victory. This trend continued throughout his debut season, as the golden boy notched up 10 goals and proved decisive in Milan picking up the Scudetto.

Established in the side as the withdrawn striker, the Brazilian’s form was carried through to the 2004/2005 campaign, although without the same success for the club itself. While Kaká was picking up headlines for his contribution throughout the tournament, AC Milan lost the Champions League final that season in Istanbul in exceptional circumstances to Liverpool on penalties, arguably beating themselves in an insane turnaround.

The disappointment of that defeat carried through the following season, although Kaká himself seemed to use it as incentive to double his efforts and impact. Established in the Brazilian side as a regular by now, his goal tally doubled in 2005/2006, finishing with 14 goals from his withdrawn position.

Coming off the back of such a great season, Kaká was seen as one of the main men to watch in the 2005 World Cup. However, with the entire Brazilian squad painfully off-form and in need of revitalisation, Kaká struggled to make an impact, as the side went out to France in the quarter-finals. The disappointments seemed to come thick and fast, as club legend Andriy Shevchenko then departed that summer. Testifying to the Brazilian’s spirit though, this apparently only helped Kaká, as the side organically developed with him at its heart. Despite the club’s calamitous league campaign, destroyed by the blow of losing Shevchenko, their modern love affair with the Champions League continued that season, largely courtesy of Kaká. His deciding goal in the knock-out stages against Celtic and overall genius against Manchester United in the semi-final, not to mention his assist in the final, alerted the world to his incredible talents.

After AC Milan took revenge on Liverpool in the final 2-0, Kaká was flooded with plaudits. The Times named him the Best Player in the World, concurring with UEFA’s later assessment, declaring him the Club Footballer of the Year. The big accolades then followed, as Kaká first won the prestigious Ballon d’Or for 2007 and completed the double with the FIFA World Player of the Year, replacing Italy’s Fabio Cannavaro both times.

Now into his fifth season with the Milanese club, Kaká has remained focused and keeps banging in the goals. Whether he will remain in Italy is another matter though and, with Real Madrid having made very public announcements of their desire to sign the Brazilian, you can be certain that Kaká will be in the headlines plenty in the future.

Career Appearances: 221 Goals: 77 International Caps: 59 Goals: 22 Career Highlight: World Footballer of the year 2007

CHAIRMAN’S VIEWS

Mike Kearns Welcome to the Officials, Players and Supporters of Bedford Town for tonight’s match, I hope you enjoy your time with us.

As I am away at the moment I cannot comment on our last couple of Games, the win against Corby Town in the Red Insure Cup and the Close encounter with St Albans City.

Of course I am in contact with Gary and a few others so I am up to speed on how we are progressing. However it is not just a go away and relax and everything will be ok, quite the opposite and I do seem to always have some major things to attend to when I am away. The last time Iain stepped down and Gary took over.

All of this happened whilst I was away on a weeks break. After the Poole game on the coach coming back Gary myself Zema and Nathan had a chat about trying to sort out the issue regarding Nathans league registration of which was being held by his previous club.

9 hours later and 5 hours behind UK time I am in the baggage hall at my destination and I get the text I have been waiting for, Nathans transfer paperwork was complete and he would be available for selection at the weekend. A further text message from Rowen Prestland we have beaten Corby 3-0 wonderful I thought maybe just maybe it was all worth it.

Oh well I say all in a days work.

Then of course comes the time of the St Albans match and a plea to anyone and everyone please keep me updated on the games progress. Did I need to worry about that with the supporters we have “absolutely not”, I had minute-by-minute commentary of the teams, action, goals and even a video of the penalty goal. It was a service Sky Sports would have been proud of. This is what our club is all about I always say “all for one and one for all” well what a wonderful example of that saying you gave me.

Keep the good work up as many cannot get to every game but they

can get to their phones and are desperate to hear the match news good or bad.

Last Saturdays match was a real nervous encounter at the end of the phone. 1 down, blast, 1 each yes, 2-1 to us yes , yes, yes. 2-2 never mind they are a good side I will take a draw how long to go 10 minutes, then the dreaded text goes again, it must be a goal but to us or them, I cant look at it but of course you have to 2-3 to them, you get that sick feeling in your stomach. Text goes again maybe we have equalized but no we have had a player sent off, still a little time though, then the last text Final Score 2-3 to them. I think that was worst than being there.

Adam any chance of sorting out a live stream for me next time I am away please. Also next time I am away lads can you just get 3 goals up and then I can relax. I have a feeling that those type of results are just around the corner; I hope so because my nerves will not be able to cope.

But of course this is all just “another day at the office”

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So on the Sunday I contacted my opposite number and made an offer of a transfer / compensation payment for Nathans registration to be released. Negotiations went into Monday and we finally agreed a deal at 11pm that night. That was great but there was a problem, I was leaving for the airport at 5am the next morning and had to conclude the financial package of the deal.

I actually transferred the funds to Nathans previous club whilst I was waiting to board the plane, and yes I was sitting on the plane when confirmation came through that the funds had been cleared. Once done a quick call to our secretary to get the transfer paperwork completed.

“Mike I cant do that right now I need Nathans signature on the paperwork” came back to me, So the plane took off without me knowing if everything was complete after days of trying to sort out the deal.

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A Chairman’s role is never ending and really is if need be a 24 hours on call ready to help in any way. The following is just one of those “another day at the office” scenarios.

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Another Day At The Office

All for one and one for all.

Mike

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OPPONENT SPOTLIGHT

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Bedford Town The Eagles Under new management this season Bedford (like us) are struggling to find consistency and are in the lower quartile of the league table.

Previous meetings of our clubs FA Cup 1976/77: Bedford 3-0 St Neots Town 2010/11 Red Insure Cup: Bedford 3-1 St Neots Town 2012/13 Season: St Neots 1-3 Bedford

Year Founded: 1908 Chairman: David Howell

Bedford 3-0 St Neots Town

Club Website: www.bedfordeagles.net

Welcome to our visitors this evening for our next engagement in the Calor Southern League Premier Division.

Welcome to our visitors this afternoon for our next engagement in the Calor Southern League Premier Division. They are the players, Directors and supporters of near neighbours Bedford Town and we extend to them our usual warm Cozy Stadium welcome. Bedford have become a bit of a ‘bogey’ club for us since we won our way to Step Four because in three previous meetings home and away we have been beaten every time in league and cup. Prior to that our previous recorded meeting was way back in 1976/77 when we were beaten

Photo courtesy of www.bedfordeagles.net

3-0 on the original Eyrie ground in Queens Park in the Third Qualifying Round of the FA Cup before Bedford (like us) had a spell out of business.

However it is happier times now for both our clubs playing at the third tier of non-league football.

Of course back in the sixties and seventies many of our better players came from Bedford (Alan Norman, Alan Buchanan, Davis Price, Peter Desborough) and one of our former Managers (Frank O’Hagan) was also based in Bedford. But this evening it is important league points that are at stake.

Club History Bedford Town, nickname ‘The Eagles’ was founded in 1908 and in the early years they played in the United Counties League and its predecessors, the Northampton League and Northampton Alliance.

The original playing colours were black and amber with a change to blue and white at the start of the 1950-51 season.

In 1945, The Eagles moved to the Southern League but achieved little during the first seasons. The club

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after 74 years the end came in 1982 when the owners of the football ground in Queens Park exercised their right to terminate the lease and when plans to build a new stadium near Barkers Lane, Bedford, failed, the Club was wound up. Seven years later on the 5th May 1989, a group of Eagles supporters met to start a campaign to re-form Bedford Town FC, which was so successful that they obtained Council permission to play their home games on a public pitch in Queens Park, ironically very close to the old ground in Ford End Road. With Tony Sullivan as team manager, they were elected to the South Midlands League and finished fourth Terry King was tempted out of retirement to team up with Tony Sullivan for the 1992-93 season and a number of early wins put them on the way to a runaway championship.

Club Wound up: After 74 years the end came for Bedford Town in 1982 when the owners of the football ground in Queens Park exercised their right to terminate the lease, the Club was wound up.

On the 5th May 1989, a group of Eagles supporters met to start a campaign and reformed Bedford Town FC.

Did you know?...

Giant Killers: Bedford Towns greatest FA Cup achievement was to draw 2-2 with Arsenal at Highbury watched by a crowd of over 55,000 in season 1955-56. The Eagles nearly caused a major shock in the replay leading 1-0 until 4 minutes from time before going down 1-2 after extra time, having had 2 goals disallowed for offside.

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This meant that the Club had to find their own ground in order to be promoted. The Council finally decided a site at Meadow Lane, Cardington, a former council tree nursery, would be the most appropriate and with financial support from the council and much hard work from supporters and committee members, the New Eyrie was ready for the opening night game against Peterborough United watched by a crowd of over 3,000. So the Eagles went into the SML Premier Division, won their first game and remained top of the league all season. In 1999/2000 Bedford won their way back to the Southern League.

Did you know?..

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received a much needed boost when in February 1951 Ronnie Rooke was signed as Player/ Manager. This signing captured the imagination of the public for ‘Rookie’ was a well known footballer, having played for Arsenal, Fulham, Crystal Palace and England. For the first match under his control, there was an attendance of 4,790 and his first appearance for the club playing in the reserves when he scored a hat-trick 3,000 turned up. However, it was not until season 1955-56 that the Eagles started on the first of their great CUP runs which would see them achieve national fame as ‘Giant Killers’ with a number of fine wins over league opposition including Watford 3-2, Norwich 2-4, Newcastle 1-2, Exeter 1-2, Brighton 2-1 and Oxford 1-0. But possibly their greatest achievement was to draw 2-2 with Arsenal at Highbury watched by a crowd of over 55,000 in season 1955-56. The Eagles nearly caused a major shock in the replay leading 1-0 until 4 minutes from time before going down 1-2 after extra time, having had 2 goals disallowed for offside. During the 60’s, changes of manager were made in a succession of two year spells with Reg Smith taking over from Rooke followed by Basil Hayward in 1963, Ron Burgess 1965, Ron Heckman 1967, Alan Wright 1969, Reg Smith again in 1971, Brian Garvey, Jim Walker, Barry Fry 1977 and finally Trevor Gould. The last game for the Club was against Nuneaton Borough away on the 4th May 1982, with the Eagles going down 1-0. And so

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Admission Prices

19

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WHO’S WHO

20

Who calls the shots?...

Lee Bearman First Team Manager Appointed 1st Team Manager in May 2013. Lee is a former Eagles player who also played for Watford and Wimbledon, amongst others.

He lives locally and has managed Cranfield United for the last two and a half years in the South Midlands First Division.

STEVE JACKMAN (Assistant)

JOHN SONUGA (Defender)

“Jacko” as everyone calls him is a former player who made his debut for the Eagles in 2001. He was part of our promotion winning side to Conference South in the 2005/6 season and then moved on to Histon. He returned 2 seasons ago to help with the coaching and was given the 1st team coach position last season. Has now been promoted to assistant manager for the forthcoming campaign.

Centre half signed in August 2013.

Previously with North Greenford United. Other clubs include Northwood, St Albans City and Hertford Town.

DANIEL GREEN (Goalkeeper) Was previously at Cranfield United and played once for the Eagles last season on dual registration. Has trained at MK Dons and is a player with tremendous promise and ability.

PAUL COOPER (Defender) A product of the Eagles youth system. Signed for 1st team squad in August 2011 and has made 48 appearances for the club. A solid right back who will be keen to make the position his own this season.

KERRAN BIRCH (Defender) Right back who impressed in preseason. Was with AFC Dunstable last season.

David Femiola joins the club having impressed in this summers trials.

The former AFC Wimbledon centre half has pace and strength and will be keen to cement is place in the back four.

French born Max Charles is an out and out winger with pace and good technical ability. Previously played for French side Bretigny.

FABIO BUFANO (Defender)

SAM MACRAE (Midfield)

Centre Half signed from Dunstable Town. Fabio played for st Albans City last season before injury kept him out of the side. Has also played for Arlesey Town and been on the books of Stevenage and Luton Town.

21 year old central midfield player signed in October 2013. Has spent 6 seasons at UCL side AFC Kempston Rovers and is now keen to make the break at a higher level.

ZAK STEPHENS (Defender) 18 year old Centre Half Zak Stephens has joined the club on loan from Luton Town. Zak has impressed in pre-season and will want to gain some competitive playing experience at this level.

JORDAN JARROLD (Defence/Midfield) 21 year old left sided player made 39 appearances for Kempston Rovers last season, playing more games than any other kempston player. Can play as left back or left side midfield.

PAUL LYON (Defence/Midfileld)

DAVID FEMIOLA (Defender)

MAX CHARLES ONAMBELE (Midfield)

Experienced defender who was with Winslow United last season. Also played for Ampthill Town.

ALEX THOMAS (Midfield) Is part of the Bedford Town youth programme. Alex has performed well in our youth set up and has been given the opportunity to step up to the 1st team squad.

JORDAN DAVIS (Midfield) Jordan a wide midfield player was involved with the Eagles at the latter end of the season when on loan for the club, scoring on his debut at St Neots. Was released at the end of last season after being on a Scholarship at Luton Town.

JEREMY NASH (Midfield) Jeremy was released by Luton Town after being on a scholarship.

A strong competitive central midfield player who will be gunning for a place in the starting line up this season.

WHO’S WHO

Andrew Phillips Striker Drew made 118 appearances for the club before breaking his leg against Stourbridge in 2009. He always said he would come back and after a long recovery he returned by playing in the UCL for AFC Kempston Rovers last season. He is now back to full fitness and is keen to get back into scoring form for his old club.

CURTIS SHAW Midfield)

Eugene is a 23 year old central midfield player who played under lee Bearman at Cranfield United last season. He is a powerfully strong player with the ability to break up play in the middle of the park.

Midfielder who has also played for Mansfield Town, Kidderminster Harriers, Shepshed Dynamo, Hucknall Town (three spells), Matlock Town, Ilkeston Town, Kings Lynn Town, Bromley, Alfreton Town and Carlton Town. Played for Tamworth and St Albans City last season.

TAYLOR RHINEY (Midfield) Taylor is an 18 year old central midfielder who spent last season with Letchworth Garden City. Taylor impressed at this summers trials.

He has a good engine, is busy and shows a lot of promise for the future.

OMAR MCLEARY-STEPHENS (Forward/Defender) Omar is a 20 year old who has been with Luton Town academy and is currently studying at the University of Bedfordshire. He is a tall six foot three forward who will cause

defences a lot of problems. He has impressed in trials and the club are delighted to have his signature. Has been playing centre half pre-season and has adapted well.

JORDAN PATRICK (Forward) 20 year old forward who has had previous spells at Barton Rovers and Arlesey Town. Was the youngest player to play for Luton Town as a 15 year old against Grimsby Town.

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EUGENE ASANTE (Midfield)

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One to watch...

and on Twitter @StNeotsTownFC 21

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THE BEAUTIFUL GAME

24

Liberty – Y Ade Roberts You’ve all heard of the pop group Liberty–X haven’t you? Well, if not, you can be forgiven for that as they were pretty dire!

They were formed in 2002 during the TV show ‘Popstars’ which aimed to create a pop group, similar to today’s X-Factor show. Liberty –X were the ones who didn’t make it in to the eventual fabricated group called ‘Hearsay’ – yeah, another band you may not have heard of, as they too….were pretty dire!

You may be wondering what this has to do with football. Well, there’s not going to be a reality show to create a new football club (or is there????) and No, a member of one of the groups has not signed professional a contract [similar to Louis Tomlinson at Donny Rovers]. The truth is, there’s a new band about to hit the charts and although not officially formed or named as yet, for the purpose of this article, I hereby name them ‘Liberty – Y’.

Championship side [whether you feel they should be or not} Yeovil Town have announced that they are holding auditions for girls aged 18+ so that a girl band can be formed.

The band will perform during each game at Yeovil’s Huish Park, not in conjunction with the football obviously but before and after [although during might be a good idea for the fans as the football’s not up to much of late]. The plan is to release the songs on iTunes and set the charts alight. They’ll also raise

Yeovil Town may be bottom of the Championship but are aiming to be the first football club with a girl band.

money for worthwhile charities along the way which is great. Depending on how good their vocal skills turn out to be, it may not be so ‘great’ for the 7,000 Yeovil fans that have to endure the pop sensations.

Perhaps now is a good time for the club shop at Huish Park to introduce a new line in the form of Ear Muffs?

For those of us that have witnessed some form of cheerleaders during a half time break at a game, these are rarely the kind of athletic girls with some degree of gymnastic training that you see at the American Football games on TV. The cheerleaders here, who grace our turf during football games, are quite possibly the ones who were picked last for any teams in PE at school. You know the type.

Sadly, so do I, I was one of them, picked last, and it still hurts to this day! This bunch of social misfits does provide us with light entertainment at away games though and it’s great that they’re getting some exercise, so let them have their fun.

Let’s take our hats off to the Glovers of Yeovil for their innovative idea with this new venture. Who knows,

it may catch on and in a few years’ time, football clubs up and down the country will be better known for their clubs’ accompanying girl-band than their football?

Is there ever a good time to promote ladies frolicking around in skimpy outfits at football stadia? Would it distract the players from performing to their full potential? Do they need this kind of distraction hanging around the changing rooms?

Yeovil officials say ‘The benefits of the new girl group would include raising money for charity and giving the club exposure to new fans via the pop charts’. The Yeovil fans probably say ‘we’d be delighted to see something aesthetically pleasing on the turf here at Huish Park, rather than the current under- performing 1st team squad!!’

Enjoy today’s game, make yourself heard and don’t forget to Pre-order your copy of the ‘Liberty-Y’ debut single! Go on…..it is for charity after all.

Ade

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FEATURE ADVERTISING

26

FAN FEATURE

Nicki Sutton Welcome to our new feature “one minute with” you our supporters.

A simple question and answer to give us all a chance to get to know each other. Put a name to a face, and get that face “yours” into our match day magazine. For full details see below.

I have supported the Saints since the beginning of season 2012 / 2013.

I am a Northerner and have adopted the Saints as my local non-league club.

What changes would you make?

None

“It says one minute with” we will come good the club has a solid base.

How long have you followed the Saints?

From 2012 Do you have a favourite player?

Lewis Hilliard or Adrian Sear, very tough call

Have you passed out through drinking too much alcohol?

No Do you have a favourite film?

Who wears the trousers in your house Nicki?

Me of course Fish and chips or curry?

Fish and Chips Are you scared of anything?

Hippos, but I have a history with them.

What is your occupation?

Cinema Paradise

Management Consultant

Most memorable goal?

Where do you see us in the next three years?

What’s your favourite colour?

Rene Steer against Canvey Island

Next May, mid table and safe

Green and White

Do you have any favourite pets?

Your catchphrase?

Wine or beer?

Dog

None

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Do you have a nick name?

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Take Part!

If you would like to take part in this feature then contact Louise Sales on misslouisesales@yahoo.co.uk

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One Minute With...

Wine and Beer

27

Find your voice on the official club forum at www.stneotstownfc.co.uk/forum

WEIRD FOOTBALL STORIES

A Snappy Idea There are a few ways to stop pitch invasions: electric fences, a heavy police presence, or making your team so bad that no fans turn up to run on the field in the first place.

But the Romanian fourth division is a rough and ready place. Back in 2003, Steaua Nicolae Balcescu had been threatened with expulsion from the league after a series of pitch invasions and clashes.

Steaua’s chairman, Alexandra Cringus, perhaps showing why the team he was running were in the fourth division rather than the first, decided the best way to stop the hooligans was by building a crocodile-infested moat around the pitch. Because if you can’t build a crocodile-infested moat around the pitch, what’s the point in being in charge of a football club, eh? “This

is not a joke,” insisted Cringus. “We can get crocodiles easy enough and feed them on meat from the local abattoir. The ditch is planned to be wide enough that no one could manage to jump over it. Anyone who attempted to do so would have to deal with the crocs. I think that the problem of fans running on to the pitch will be solved once and for all.”

This wasn’t some slapdash plan, though. Cringus had had a good

long think about health and safety too: he planned to build the moat far enough from the pitch that players wouldn’t accidentally tumble to their doom.

He even thought of the crocs too: Romanian winters can be harsh so the water would be heated by electric pipes. You may not be surprised to discover that local authorities rejected the scheme.

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Sponsored by Steve Ridley

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Official TV Channel

Extended Match Highlights Post-Match Analysis and Interviews All the Goals, Outtakes and Behind the Scenes Coverage Tune in to your club... www.stneotstownfc.co.uk

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FOOTBALL FUNNIES

30

ITS A FUNNY

OLD GAME!

There’s never a dull moment supporting your favourite team, the beautiful game has been kicking around for years but will always throw up some lunacy! Check these beauties out!

Watch the Game - Ref A spectator at a local league match at Bransbury Park, Portsmouth kept up a constant barrage of insults and derogatory remarks directed against the referee. Finally the referee could stand it no longer. He marched over to the sideline and, looking the noisy spectator squarely in the eye, shouted, ‘Look here I’ve been watching you for the last twenty minutes”. ‘I thought so’, the spectator retorted loudly, ‘I knew you couldn’t have been watching the game.’

halves. The match was between Sunderland and Derby County. It started with someone standing in as a deputy referee as the original referee was late. The match was played for 45 minutes, the original referee turned up and ordered a full 90 minutes to be played. Sunderland won 11-0.

Sent off for tripping streaker Adrian Bastia was sent off in for apprehending a streaker in 2008.

During an Astreas Tripolis match against Panathinaikos, Bastia tripped the streaker so he could be escorted off of the pitch by the authorities. The referee subsequently showed him a straight red card for violent conduct.

Sold for sausage meat The actual game of three halves An English League game played in 1894 will forever go down in the history of football for having three Image credit: Medical Art

Marius Cioara was sold in Romanian football from UT Arad to Regal Hornia in 2006 for 15 kilograms of sausage meat. However, Cioara left his new side after just one day at the club because he was relentlessly

abused by teammates in relation to the circumstances surrounding his move.

Players invoke card frenzy Jose Manuel Barro Escandon went a little bit card crazy in a match involving first division teams Recreativo Linense and Saladillo de Algeciras. The match descended into a massive brawl which forced the referee to abandon the game before going into each dressing room and showing nine red cards per team.

A dose of his own medicine During the 1930 World Cup semifinal between Argentina and the United States, the American trainer sprinted onto the pitch to argue with the referee. In the process he threw his medical bag to the ground, opened a bottle of chloroform and then collapsed to the ground as he’d knocked himself out.

MASCOT FEATURE All the latest news at www.stneotstownfc.co.uk

The Saints Matchday Mascot Experience • Free entry for mascot and parents • Use of our hospitality room • Signed match day programme by your favourite player, which you will also appear in • Meet your favourite player and have your photo taken • Tour of the stadium • Have a kick about on the main pitch • Lead the Saints on to the pitch • Free portion of chips and drink for the mascot

To apply to be a Matchday Mascot contact Louise Spark on misslouises@yahoo.co.uk

and on Twitter @StNeotsTownFC

The Saints lost out 2-3 after a spirited performance, watched by a good crowd and despite the result Archie had a great day and got to lead his team out and get some great souvenir photos to remember his experience.

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7 year old West Ham fan Archie Palmer was our mascot for the day at last weekends’ home game versus St Albans City.

31

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GAME FOR A LAUGH

ES!

COMMENTATORS FOOTBALL GAFF

You can always rely on the good old football commentator to come out with a classic during the big match! Here are a few howlers!

DAN WALKER “Most of Michael Owen’s goals have come in the past”

DANNY MILLS “I’d love to get to the final of Masterchef. I’d feel almost as if I’ve failed if I didn’t”

“Andy Carroll will cause anyone problems and I don’t see a problem in that” ALAN SHEARER

BRADLEY ALLEN

ALAN SMITH

CRAIG BURLEY

“That’s certainly lit the litmus paper”

“Luiz nearly missed an open header”

“They played Arsenal and got their backsides felt”

MATT LE TISSIER

NIALL QUINN

CHRIS WADDLE

“Arsenal owe a great deal of debtitude to the keeper”

“Dzeko scored against QPR to set up that climax at the finish”

“Steven Fletcher cost a very lot of money”

ALAN SMITH

TOMMY LANGLEY

“Abbiati sticks out a lanky arm to save that”

“Fernando Torres is playing out of his face at the moment”

They’re being asked to play three games a week... mentally, they can’t ascertain to do that”

PAY PARLOUR

PAUL MERSON

“Reading have got the good factor”

ALEX MCLEISH

GUS POYET

“Swansea’s right back, Rangel Angel, will be putting the crosses in”

“The more you lose, the more you don’t win”

I’d go back to Leeds at any time, but not right now”

ALVIN MARTIN

MICKY QUINN

SAM MATTERFACE

“If Arsenal don’t finish third, they might not finish in third place”

“They should slowly integrate them out of the club”

“Arsenal need crispier passing”

BOBBY GOULD

Heard a howler? Pass it on and we will look to feature it in a future issue. Email saintsmag@stneotstownfc.co.uk

32

Image credit: TalkFootball

FIXTURES MATRIX

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33

GAVIN HOYTE

FIXTURES & TICKET INFORMATION

Calor League Premier Division

Calor League Premier Division

Banbury United v St Neots Town

Redditch United v St Neots Town

Saturday 30th November 2013 – K.O. 15:00pm

Monday 2nd December 2013 – K.O. 19:45pm

Away Ticket Prices: Adults £9, Concessions £5, Children under 16 £1

Away Ticket Prices: Adults £10, Concessions £6, Children under 16 £2

Opponent Website: www.pitchero.com/clubs/banburyunitedfootballclub

Opponent Website: www.redditchutdfc.co.uk Team Coach Departs: TBC Sat Nav Postcode Reference: B97 4RN

Round Trip (from St Neots): 130 miles

Round Trip (from St Neots): 144 miles

Travel in style on the Team Coach for only £10pp return Advance bookings (recommended) can be made at the Club Bars, email enquiries@stneotstownfc.co.uk for more information and to check availabilty. Don’t leave it late as spaces are limited to 25 for each game.

Upcoming Fixtures - Visit www.stneotstownfc.co.uk for the latest updates 26.11.13 Calor League Premier Division Bideford

v Banbury United

30.11.13 Calor League Premier Division AFC Totton

Biggleswade Town v Stourbridge

19:45

Banbury United

v St Neots Town

15:00

Chesham United

v Poole Town

19:45

Bedford Town

v Bashley

15:00

Hemel Hemp’ Town v AFC Totton

19:45

Burnham

v Bideford

15:00

Hungerford Town

v Truro City

19:45

Cambridge City

v Hemel Hemp’ Town 15:00

St Neots Town

v Bedford Town

19:45

Chippenham Town v Arlesey Town

15:00

Weymouth

v Chippenham Town 19:45

Frome Town

v Corby Town

15:00

Hitchin Town

v Chesham United

15:00

Poole Town

v Hungerford Town

15:00

Stourbridge

v Weymouth

15:00

Truro City

v Redditch United

15:00

27.11.13 Calor League Premier Division Corby Town

v Hitchin Town

19:45

v Biggleswade Town 15:00

and on Twitter @StNeotsTownFC

19:45

Follow the Saints on Facebook /StNeotsTownFC

Team Coach Departs: TBC Sat Nav Postcode Reference: OX16 5AB

All the latest news at www.stneotstownfc.co.uk

Saints Away Games - Everything you need for the next 2 away fixtures

35

THE NLP All the latest news at www.stneotstownfc.co.uk

NO football to watch on a Saturday afternoon because your game has been called off?

How boar-ing!

The weird and wonderful world of Non-League often throws up stories that you’re not likely to see anywhere else.

Gloucester Northern Senior League side Soudley AFC are on the edge of the Forest of Dean and were given an almighty fright after discovering their pitch had been ruined by the animals.

The boars managed to break through fences surrounding the pitch to cause havoc and it’s the third time this has happened to Soudley – not a hat-trick they were hoping for.

The club’s home seems likely to be out of action for at least a few weeks which could cause some problems for their fixture schedule.

It’s no joke for chairman Ian Marfell, however, who said: “It’s been regarded as one of the best pitches in the Forest of Dean over the past ten years so to see it churned up is a bit of a pain.”

While we had to suffer the inevitable postponements last Saturday, most of the fixture programme went ahead without a hitch, which isn’t bad going for November.

This time last year, snow was decimating Non-League like it has done for too long. The white stuff and rain are undoubtedly the biggest culprits.

But there have been plenty of other reasons for games being called off in Non-League, some more comedic than others.

Just a couple of months ago in the FA Cup, Huntingdon Town and Sleaford had their game abandoned with just three minutes left after a mass brawl between the two sides.

The game hit national headlines and saw both clubs kicked out of the world’s oldest cup competition.

On a lighter note, the recent Southern Counties East League game between Canterbury City and Whyteleafe was called off, despite the best efforts of the away side.

Both clubs had exactly the same kit, which was only discovered after the Leafe arrived at the ground, and even

though the Surrey club dashed to get a new strip from nearby Margate, they missed the referee’s cut off time of 3.30.

And what about failed floodlights?

Or maybe those that don’t get the chance to work! Crowborough Athletic were left in a spot of bother at the start of this season, due to overgrown trees! Their home fixture against Shoreham was abandoned after floodlights failed an FA lux test due to the rebelling shrubbery.

“It’s all a bit embarrassing to be honest,” admitted chairman Tony Bowen. “We have a bit of a tree problem.” Wood you believe it!

Steve Coney Follow us on twitter: @NonLeguePaper

and on Twitter @StNeotsTownFC

It’s also a bad timing as apparently Soudley were scheduled to debut a new formation for their fans on Saturday – the boar-boar-two!

Rooting wreckers: The Soudley AFC pitch after it was dug up by wild boar.

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While there were plenty of games postponed last weekend due to the adverse weather conditions, there’s one club in Gloucestershire that might have problems for some time due to a pitch invasion – by wild boars!

@SamElliott_NLP @Stuhammonds_NLP @MattBadcock_NLP

37

LEAGUE FOCUS

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A brief round up of the weekly results from the teams that matter.

Premier Division Weekend Action

Division One Central Weekend Action

Division One South & West Weekend Action

Chesham United, who had taken the lead but been pegged back in time added on at the end of the first half, scored three times after the interval to complete a 4-1 home win over AFC Totton and move six points clear at the top of the table as second placed Hemel Hempstead Town, who went behind just after the hour mark, could only draw 1-1 at Frome Town with the help of a goal in time added on but Cambridge City, two ahead after twenty minutes, won 3-0 at Burnham and took over third place from Bideford whose unbeaten run was finally brought to an end when a second half own goal gave Stourbridge a 1-0 away victory.

Leaders Barton Rovers scored twice in each half to complete a comprehensive 4-0 home win over fifth placed Royston Town while second in the table Dunstable Town scored on the stroke of half time after going behind and added two more in the second half to win 3-1 at Aylesbury United and third placed Slough Town, two up at the interval, won 3-1 against Daventry Town, only the second time the visitors had dropped points this season.

Leaders North Leigh scored four times in the first half on the way to a comprehensive 5-0 win at Yate Town but second in the table Cirencester Town scored twice in the opening four minutes and doubled their lead before the break before going on to complete a resounding 7-0 home victory over Thatcham Town while fourth placed Mangotsfield United, ahead from a fifth minute penalty and two up at the break, won their sixth successive game with a 3-0 victory at Godalming Town and Wimborne Town scored four times in the second half to defeat visiting Clevedon Town 4-1.

Fifth placed Banbury United were held to a 0-0 draw by visiting Poole Town but St Albans City, who after taking the lead were a goal behind seven minutes after the interval, equalised on the hour and secured a 3-2 win at St Neots Town with a goal ten minutes from time while Hungerford Town scored twice before the break to record a 2-0 home win over Bedford Town and Biggleswade Town, a goal ahead at half time, scored three minutes from time to complete a 2-0 victory at Truro City.

Weymouth took the lead two minutes before the interval and, after conceding an equaliser seven minutes into the second half, secured a 2-1 home win over Arlesey Town with a goal just after the hour while Hitchin Town scored with nine minutes remaining to win 1-0 at home against bottom of the table Bashley and Corby Town, a goal up after nine minutes but level at the break, scored twice in the final fifteen minutes to win 3-1 at Redditch United.

Fourth in the table Rugby Town, twice pegged back after leading, secured a 3-2 home victory over Marlow with a goal two minutes from time and Northwood, who had taken the lead on the stroke of half time, scored two minutes from time to complete a 2-0 home success against Chalfont St Peter while Beaconsfield SYCOB, a goal down in the first minute, scored ten minutes into the second half to draw 1-1 at Kettering Town and St Ives Town, a goal down a minute before the interval, scored with sixteen minutes remaining to also take a point from a 1-1 draw at AFC Hayes.

Uxbridge scored three times in the closing eleven minutes to inflict a 3-0 home defeat on Aylesbury while Egham Town, two ahead at the break, scored three times in the second half to complete a resounding 5-0 win at North Greenford United and Potters Bar Town scored five minutes before and three minutes after half time to secure a 2-0 victory at Ashford Town (Middx) who slipped to the bottom of the table on goal difference replacing Chertsey Town who took a point from a 0-0 home draw with Leighton Town.

Merthyr Town scored from a penalty in time added on to win 4-3 in a see-saw encounter at third from bottom Didcot Town while Swindon Supermarine had to settle for a point from a 1-1 draw at Bridgwater Town and Tiverton Town, two down at the interval, lost 3-0 at Bishops Cleeve but Taunton Town recovered from going behind to win 3-1 at Cinderford Town. Fleet Town drew 0-0 at home with Evesham United but Shortwood United, who had taken the lead two minutes before the break, scored three times in the closing twenty minutes to complete a 4-0 home win over bottom of the table Guildford City.

Team of The Month Awards - October Premier Division Chesham United Division One Central Dunstable Town Division One South & West Merthyr Town

For more information visit www.southern-football-league.co.uk/news 38

NON-LEAGUE CLUB NEWS

Corby Town ROONEY `RELUCTANTLY` DEPARTS STEELMEN Nathan Rooney has left Calor League Southern Premier Division club Corby Town. The former Wolves reserve captain has been a revelation for the Steelmen netting some fantastic goals during his short spell with the club and playing a pivotal role in the recent run of results and the FA Cup run. However, Rooney has made the tough decision to depart Steel Park due to the strains of travelling from his home-town of Telford.

Cambridge City BURNS MAKES CITY SWITCH

Hungerford Town HUNGERFORD BORROW YOUNG MAGPIE Calor League Southern Premier Division club Hungerford Town have signed young forward Tony Mendy on a month`s loan from Skrill South side Maidenhead United Mendy signed for the Magpies in July having enjoyed a splendid 2012/13 season with AFC Hayes in the Southern Division Central when he scored twenty-eight goals in thirty-nine games. He was originally on the books at Slough Town.

Poole Town MARTIN CHOOSES TO JOIN DOLPHINS

Arlesey Town RUFUS BREVETT APPOINTED MANAGER The Club has announced the appointment of Rufus Brevett as their new Manager. Brevett, a former captain of Fulham and player at Queens Park Rangers and West Ham United, will be taking over the role with immediate effect.

The 44 year old, who also turned out for Doncaster Rovers, Plymouth Argyle and Oxford United and totalled just under 500 League appearances, will also be working on the future overall development of the footballing side of the club and therefore has also been appointed as Director of Football.

and on Twitter @StNeotsTownFC

Tommy Killick, manager of Calor League Southern Premier Division club Poole Town, has signed left-back Neil Martin from Skrill South neighbours Dorchester Town. It was thought the left-sided player would join Poole`s league rivals Weymouth, but Dolphins’ manager Killick has moved for the 24-year-old. The former Exeter City and Salisbury City player, equally adept on the left of defence or midfield.

Follow the Saints on Facebook /StNeotsTownFC

Cambridge City have completed the signing of Robbie Burns from Calor League Southern Premier Division rivals Hitchin Town. Burns, 23, is an attacking midfield player and has been a target of City boss Gary Roberts for some while as he looks to strengthen his squad. Burns started his career at Leicester City before enjoying a loan spell at Tranmere Rovers. He moved into non-League football when he joined Nuneaton Town in 2010, and featured in their promotion-winning team the year after. He joined Hitchin at the start of this season.

All the latest news at www.stneotstownfc.co.uk

We take a look at what other non-league clubs are doing that’s making the news

39

SEASON STATISTICS 2013/14

Become a Member today at www.stneotstownfc.co.uk

Find your voice on the official club forum at www.stneotstownfc.co.uk/forum

Opposition in CAPS denotes home fixture. Player name in bold CAPS denotes goal scorer.

40

ATT

COMP

R

Pos

1

2

3

4

Sat 17 Aug

H Weymouth

354

CLPD

0-2

22

Heath

Rodgers

Adjei

Sear

Tue 20 Aug

A Stourbridge

447

CLPD

1-2

22

Heath

Rodgers

Steer

Sear

N

Sat 24 Aug

A Bashley

209

CLPD

3-1

15

Heath

Rodgers

Steer

Sear

Sh

Mon 26 Aug

H Cambridge City

451

CLPD

1-2

18

Heath

Rodgers

Adjei

SEAR

Sat 31 Aug

H Redditch United

231

CLPD

2-3

21

Heath

Rodgers

Steer

SEAR

H

Wed 04 Sep

A Corby Town

317

CLPD

0-1

22

Conroy

Nkinga

Steer

Davies

C

Sat 07 Sep

A Hemel Hempstead

669

CLPD

0-2

22

Conroy

Nkinga

Steer

Sear

C

Sat 14 Sep

H (Wroxham)

232

FAC

3-1

–

Conroy

Wood

Steer

Davies

N

Tue 17 Sep

H Hinckley United

208

CLPD

3-0

19

Conroy

Nkinga

Steer

DAVIES

C

Sat 21 Sep

H Truro City

307

CLPD

2-0

16

Conroy

Nkinga

Steer

Davies

C

Sat 28 Sep

A Canvey Island

256

FAC

2-2

–

Conroy

Crowie

Steer

Sharman

H

Tue 01 Oct

H Canvey Island

289

FAC R

1-2

–

Conroy

Hurst

STEER

Sear

C

Sat 05 Oct

A Hungerford Town

105

CLPD

0-1

19

Conroy

Hurst

Steer

Davies

Mon 07 Oct

A Hitchin Town

309

CLPD

0-4

21

Conroy

Goss

Steer

Hurst

C

Tue 15 Oct

H Hitchin Town

96

RIC

5-0

–

Conroy

DEENEY

Dhillon

Ford

C

Sat 19 Oct

A Halesowen Town

273

FAT

3-0

–

Conroy

DEENEY

Dhillon

Ann

H

Tue 22 Oct

H Chesham United

223

CLPD

0-5

21

Conroy

Deeney

Dhillon

Hibbert

Sat 26 Oct

A Bideford

238

CLPD

2-3

22

Conroy

Deeney

Duckett

Hibbert

Tue 29 Oct

H Corby Town

261

CLPD

0-3

22

Conroy

Deeney

Dhillon

Hibbert

C

Sat 02 Nov

A Matlock Town

244

FAT

0-2

–

Conroy

Ann

Ford

Crowie

H

Sat 09 Nov

H Hemel Hempstead

436

CLPD

4-1

21

Conroy

Ann

Ford

Crowie

H

Tue 12 Nov

H Biggleswade Town

306

CLPD

3-4

21

Conroy

Ann

Ford

Crowie

H

Sat 16 Nov

A Poole Town

402

CLPD

0-2

21

Conroy

Crowie

Lee

Frater

H

Tue 19 Nov

H Corby Town

93

RIC

3-0

–

Conroy

Longden

Lee

Ford

F

Sat 23 Nov

H St Albans City

364

CLPD

2-3

21

Abbey

Longden

Lee

Deeney

F

Tue 26 Nov

H Bedford Town

CLPD

Sat 30 Nov

A Banbury United

CLPD

Sat 07 Dec

H Frome Town

CLPD

Sat 14 Dec

A Burnham

CLPD

Sat 21 Dec

H AFC Totton

CLPD

Thu 26 Dec

A Cambridge City

CLPD

Sat 28 Dec

H Stourbridge

CLPD

Wed 01 Jan

H Arlesey Town

CLPD

Sat 04 Jan

A Chippenham Town

CLPD

Sat 11 Jan

H Poole Town

CLPD

Sat 18 Jan

A St Albans City

CLPD

Sat 25 Jan

A Bedford Town

CLPD

Sat 01 Feb

H Banbury United

CLPD

Sat 08 Feb

A Frome Town

CLPD

Sat 15 Feb

H Burnham

CLPD

Sat 22 Feb

A AFC Totton

CLPD

Sat 01 Mar

H Hungerford Town

CLPD

Sat 08 Mar

A Truro City

CLPD

Sat 15 Mar

H Hitchin Town

CLPD

Sat 22 Mar

A Biggleswade Town

CLPD

Sat 29 Mar

H Bideford

CLPD

Sat 05 Apr

A Chesham United

CLPD

Sat 12 Apr

A Weymouth

CLPD

Sat 19 Apr

H Bashley

CLPD

Mon 21 Apr

A Arlesey Town

CLPD

Sat 26 Apr

H Chippenham Town

CLPD

Date

Opposition

C

SEASON STATISTICS 2013/14 Player name in these colours denotes substitute.

6 Steer

Nkinga

7

8

Hilliard

Taylor

9

10

11

Benjamin

Sogbanmu

Fuller

12 Sharman

Crowie

Hilliard

SHARMAN

Benjamin

Adjei

Taylor

Safee

harman

Crowie

HILLIARD

Fuller

BENJAMIN 2

Adjei

Taylor

Sembie-Ferris

14

15

Safee

Palmer

Crowie

Hilliard

Sharman

Benjamin

Davies

Taylor

Nkinga

Fuller

Crowie

Hilliard

Davies

Benjamin

Palmer

Adjei

SAFEE

Sembie-Ferris

Taylor

Crowie

Hoyte

Hilliard

Sharman

Sogbanmu

Sear

Taylor

Adjei

Joseph

Safee

Crowie

Hoyte

Hilliard

Davies

Sogbanmu

Sharman

Adjei

Nkinga

Hoyte

HILLIARD

HURST

Safee

SEAR

Adjei

Taylor

Joseph

Sharman

Crowie

Hoyte

Hilliard

Sear

Hurst

ANN

Adjei

TAYLOR

Joseph

Sharman

Crowie

Hoyte

Hilliard

Sear

HURST

Ann

Adjei

SAFEE

Sembie-Ferris

Sharman

Hibbert

Hoyte

HILLIARD

Davies

Ann

Hurst

Adjei

SAFEE

Taylor

Wood

Crowie

Hoyte

Hilliard

Hibbert

Adjei

Davies

Taylor

Safee

Felix

Ann

Ann

Crowie

Goss

Sharman

Hilliard

Safee

Adjei

Felix

Wood

Palmer

Crowie

Hoyte

Hilliard

Hibbert

Ann

Ford

Davies

Taylor

Felix

Wood

Crowie

Ann

HILLIARD

Davies

Nolan

WOOLLEY 2

Adjei

N’GUESSAN

Sharman

Duckett

Hoyte

Hibbert

Hilliard

Sear

WOOLLEY

ADJEI

Davies

N’Guessan

Ford

Hurst

Ann

Hoyte

Hilliard

Sear

Woolley

Davies

Adjei

Taylor

Hurst

Ford

Ann

Hoyte

Woolley

Sear

Nolan

Hurst

Taylor

WILSON

DAVIES

Crowie

Crowie

Hoyte

Wilson

Ford

Nolan

Davies

Woolley

Taylor

Hilliard

N’Guessan

Hoyte

Deeney

Hilliard

Hurst

Woolley

Davies

Taylor

Wilson

N’Guessan

Hoyte

Deeney

HILLIARD

DAVIES

Nolan

WOOLLEY

ADJEI

Taylor

Wilson

Hoyte

Deeney

HILLIARD 3

Davies

Nolan

Woolley

Adjei

Hurst

Wilson

Hurst

Hoyte

Deeney

Hilliard

Davies

Nolan

Woolley

Ford

Adjei

Wilson

Frater

Hoyte

HILLIARD

Sharman

WILSON

DAVIES

Adjei

Crowie

Felix

Wood

Frater

Hoyte

Hilliard

Sharman

Woolley

DAVIES

Adjei

NOLAN

Frew

Wilson

Sharman

Follow the Saints on Facebook /StNeotsTownFC

Steer

Hoyte

All the latest news at www.stneotstownfc.co.uk

5

Crowie

and on Twitter @StNeotsTownFC 41

LEAGUE TABLE

Become a Member today at www.stneotstownfc.co.uk

Find your voice on the official club forum at www.stneotstownfc.co.uk/forum

First Team - Calor League Premier Division (23.11.13)

42

P

W

D

L

GF

GA

+/-

Pts

Chesham United

17

13

2

2

44

15

29

41

Hemel Hempstead Town

15

11

2

2

51

12

39

35

Cambridge City

17

10

3

4

25

15

10

33

Bideford

15

9

5

1

36

17

19

32

Banbury United

15

9

1

5

28

21

7

28

Stourbridge

14

9

0

5

36

16

20

27

St Albans City

15

8

3

4

33

21

12

27

Poole Town

13

7

5

1

24

17

7

26

Hungerford Town

14

8

1

5

22

13

9

25

Biggleswade Town

15

5

7

3

27

20

7

22

Weymouth

13

6

2

5

19

18

1

20

Corby Town

13

6

2

5

19

22

-3

20

Hitchin Town

15

5

4

6

23

17

6

19

Arlesey Town

15

5

4

6

23

24

-1

19

Frome Town

15

5

4

6

21

24

-3

19

Truro City

18

5

4

9

25

39

-14

19

Chippenham Town

17

6

1

10

24

39

-15

19

Redditch United

17

6

1

10

23

43

-20

19

Burnham

16

4

6

6

23

28

-5

18

Bedford Town

17

3

4

10

25

49

-24

13

St Neots Town

17

3

0

14

20

39

-19

9

AFC Totton

16

2

1

13

19

49

-30

7

Bashley

15

0

2

13

13

45

-32

2

Bunny Man’s a Saints Fan...

Bunny Man’s a Saints Fan...

La Laah Laah Laaah, La Laah Laah Laaah!

Save 20%on all Wall Art in our Gallery!

Enter Code All4One20

@ilovemywalls or find The Bunny Man at www.ilovemywalls.com

Become a Member today at www.stneotstownfc.co.uk

Find your voice on the official club forum at www.stneotstownfc.co.uk/forum

THE TEAMS

ST. NEOTS TOWN

V

BEDFORD TOWN

Dark Blue Shirts, Shorts & Socks

Colours

Gold Shirts, Black Shorts & Socks

Gary King & Zema Abbey

Manager

Lee Bearman

Nathan Abbey

Assistant Manager

Steve Jackman

Carol Holland

Club Physio

Alice Grindrod

SQUAD NUMBERS

Rating Goals Rating

SQUAD NUMBERS

1. Niall Conroy (GK)

1. Daniel Green (GK)

2. Dave Deeney

2. Paul Cooper

3. Edd Adjei

3. Jordan Jarrold

4. Adrian Sear

4. Zak Stephens

5. Dan Crowie

5. John Sonuga

6. Gavin Hoyte (C)

6. Jeremy Nash

7. Lewis Hilliard

7. Jordan Davis

8. Jay Davies

8. Sam Macrae

9. Matt Nolan 10. Alasan Ann 11. Ryan Frater

9. Andrew Phillips (C) 10. Curtis Shaw 11. Taylor Rhiney

12. Michael Frew

12. Eugene Asante

14. Ryan Sharman

14. Lorenzo Ferrari

15. Karl Saffee

15. David Femiola

16. Kaine Felix

16. Fabio Bufano

17. Tom Wood

17. Kerran Birch

18. Nathan Abbey (GK) 19. Andy Palmer 20. Ben Ford 21. Arthur Lee 22. Lewis Wilson 23. Leon Hibbert 24. Jhai Dhillon

Teams will be displayed on the electronic scoreboard Your Man of the Match

Attendance

Match Rating

Opposition Support Rating

Ratings: Albeit just for fun - why not give your rating from 1 to 10 with 10 being perfect!

Next Home Game: We value your continued support, thank you Calor League Premier Division St Neots Town v Frome Town Saturday 07th December - KO 15.00pm 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.

44

Officials Rating