2022/23 - Issue Six - Spalding United

THE

SAINTS

Official Digital Matchday Magazine Season 2022/23

ISSUE 6 PITCHING-IN NPL MIDLAND DIVISION

Saints President - John Walker

First Team

Board of Directors

Manager - Peter Gill Assistant - Sean Greygoose GK Coach - Gary Dean Physio - Craig Lambert & Sam Roblett Kit Man - Mick Hunt Analyst - Jordan Beale

Chairman - Barry Cavilla Director of Football - Iain Parr Events Director - Louise Sales Commercial Director - Daniel Dodson Secretary - Gary Wilson Director - Mike Green Director - Jez Green

Saints Match Day Team Fixture Secretary - Marion Izzard Hospitality - Andy Clay, Paula Robertson and Julie Clark Stadium Announcer - Mike Green Music - Charlie Green Catering - Diane Sales Media Press Officer - Mike Green Match Reports - John Walker Photographer - David Richardson Social Media - Mike Green

Academy Manager - Iain Parr U18’s Manager - Ben Webster and Iain Parr Club Welfare Officer - Mick Hunt Club Information Address: Rowley Park, Kester Way, St Neots, Cambs., PE19 6SL Website - www.stneotstownfc.co.uk Enquires - enquires@stneotstownfc.co.uk Commercial Enquiries - danieldodson25@hotmail.com Events - misslouises@yahoo.co.uk Academy - iain@stneotstown.co.uk

Ground Staff Pitch maintenance - Barry Oakley

Front cover - Image copyright protected by David Richardson, used under license.

Ownership: In accordance with the football association league rule 2.13 publication of ownership in relation to step 1-4 within the football pyramid, we hereby confirm the legal status of St Neots Town Football Club Identification Number 02921210, and is a Private Limited Company.

For the purposes of publication of ownership we can confirm that the following are listed as Directors of the Company: Lee Kearns (Significant interest 70%) , Iain Parr, Louise Sales, Gary Wilson, Mehmet Mimoglu and as Non Executive Directors Mike Green, Jeremy Green, and Barry Cavilla.

Company Secretary Keith Gotch, Company Accountant Keith Gotch

Greenie’s Greetings With Director Mike Green "Good afternoon everybody and welcome back to the Premier Plus Stadium for today’s Pitching-In Northern Premier League Midland Division game."

Today we extend a warm welcome to the players, officials and supporters of Spalding United and we hope you enjoy your brief stay with us here this afternoon.

Well after two difficult away trips to Sutton Coldfield and Gresley Rovers, we now have a couple of quickfire home games, against today’s opponents and then a rearranged fixture versus Dereham Town on Tuesday evening, so hopefully now that we are on familiar surroundings, we can build on Saturday’s excellent win at Gresley.

Today’s game sees us come up against a number of players who have represent the Saints in the past including Michael Duggan and Stefan Brocolli and another couple of lads who hail from this town, Archie Jones and Sam Cartwright, so I’m sure this will add to what will already be an interesting match against a Tulips side who are currently sitting on fifth place.

Sadly, I will be missing from the mic in the press box for these two fixtures due to a family trip away and work commitments but I will be following on social media, so please do get behind the lads and hopefully we will be celebrating two positive results

PUMP UP THE VOLUME

Greenie

From the Dugout With First Team Manager Peter Gill "Good afternoon and welcome to the Premier Plus Stadium for today’s League game vs Spalding. We offer a warm welcome to our visitors and wish them well for the rest of the season."

Over the last few weeks, the team have had a difficult period with results not going our way. I know there have been some negative comments from within the club and around the club, but I believe we have a group here who will work hard to turn things around. After the Sutton Coldfield game we needed to see a reaction and change our way of playing. I was delighted with how the players responded last Saturday away at Gresley, which will prove a difficult place to get results this season, I am sure.

The players and I are under no illusion that one result will see us instantly right all the wrongs from the opening period of the season. However, with hard work, commitment and being more adaptable with how we play I believe we can pick up positive results in the coming months.

As mentioned in the opening notes, I understand the comments aimed at myself and the team. When you are not winning football matches, I fully expect the comments and it is our job to prove those wrong. I do ask that you continue to support the players as they continue to work their socks off to turn things around.

Moving onto today’s game. We face one of the leagues big spenders who have assembled a really strong squad. They have 3 or 4 players who over the last 18 months or so I have tried to convince to join us, however we haven’t been able to compete finically. So, I know first hand how good their squad is and the dangers they threat. I do believe we are facing one of the best assembled squads in the league today so we know we’ll have to be at our very best . They have a dangerous attacking front line, supported by an excellent midfield with one or two of the league’s best. Their backline has a real mix of experience and sees some excellent ex professionals, so they are strong all over the pitch.

I am under no illusions this will be one of our toughest games of the season.

From the Dugout With First Team Manager Peter Gill I hope the players do themselves justice and a positive result this afternoon will go along way to show the improvements made over the last few weeks.

Lastly, an update on the injury front….(It doesn’t make pleasant reading!) ·Theo Sackey-Mensah – Theo returned to action with 45 against Gresley. He has been ill this week so we will have to monitor that situation. ·Declan Nche – Dec also returned vs Gresley and like Theo has had illness this week so will have to be monitored. ·Dan Barton – Barts limped off vs Sutton Coldfield and is currently undergoing rehab for an ankle injury. This is likely to take a few weeks. ·Andre Hasanally – Andre suffered a knock vs Gresley and at the time of writing we are waiting to see the damage before knowing how long he will be out. ·Charlie Stallard – Charlie took a tackle to the ankle vs Sporting Khalsa. It is not as bad as first feared but is still in a boot and will be out for the foreseeable future. ·Charlie Lewis – Charlie was named on the bench vs Sutton Coldfield but in name only. He is currently undergoing rehab but may be a few weeks away from returning. ·Brandon Njoku – Unfortunately Brandon’s rehab has stopped progressing and the exact cause of his pain is still somewhat unknown. The best case scenario at this stage still looks to be another 5-7 weeks however this may be longer depending on getting to the route cause of the problem

As always, please get behind the team today!

Up the Saints!

Pete

Saints Partners - Visit www.stneotstownfc.co.uk to find out how to become a partner.

We pride ourselves on being open minded with a particular emphasis on working closely with our business partners to ensure mutually beneficial achievements. Our aim is to continue developing football for all, to offer duel career pathways and to continue to engage and support the Community and local businesses.

Boardroom Boardroom Gossip Gossip With With Chairman Chairman Barry Barry Cavilla Cavilla "Welcome back to Premier Plus Stadium for this afternoon’s Northern Premier League Midland Division fixture against Spalding Utd." As is customary, I’d like to warmly welcome all involved with today’s opponents to St Neots Town FC and wish them a safe return to Lincolnshire after the game.

Last Saturdays much needed win away at Gresley Rovers was fully deserved and the lads showed what they are capable of doing, in terms of the quality of football they can produce. The win (and the 3 valuable points) was made even more impressive given the total commitment and energy the team gave right from the start. Like you all I’m hoping that we can build on that performance and pick up a few more wins in the coming games to help us to consolidate our place in the table and we’ll move away from any relegation concerns.

As mentioned in some of my previous programme notes, the support from our Sponsors and Supporters is vital if we are to continue to try and be competitive at this level of football. The support we have had so far to date is really good and we are very thankful for that, however, we still have a number of further sponsorship opportunities we need to fill if we are to continue to moving forward off the pitch. In particular, we are still looking for Match and Ball Sponsors for our up and coming games and would ask if any individuals or businesses with in our community like to support us, so if anyone you feel might be interested, please let us know and we can provide more information.

I wish to say a very BIG ‘Thank you’ to Rachel and her friendly colleagues at Urban & Civic for their community day helping hand support at the club recently, some much needed maintenance jobs were sorted and has helped keep our facilities in good shape for all the community to come and enjoy.

Finally we are keen to get your feedback on anything we can do to improve your match day experience. So please share any thoughts you have with any of the Board, Club Officials and Volunteers so we can continue to improving match days at the Saints and helping support this community club.

COME ON YOU SAINTS

Barry

Saints Partners - Visit www.stneotstownfc.co.uk to find out how to become a partner.

We pride ourselves on being open minded with a particular emphasis on working closely with our business partners to ensure mutually beneficial achievements. Our aim is to continue developing football for all, to offer duel career pathways and to continue to engage and support the Community and local businesses.

Boardroom Commercial Gossip Chat With Cavilla With Chairman CommercialBarry Director Daniel Dodson "Good afternoon and a warm welcome to the Premier Plus Stadium to our supporters, old and new, as well as the visiting fans, officials and players of Spalding United."

I have not been visible round the club in the past couple of weeks due to personal commitments but the hard work being carried out by myself and the team has been continuing. We have exciting prospects of a relaunched St Neots Sports Association with its inaugural meeting at the beginning of November. This also enables us to work with local business through the St Neots Initiative.

I also realise that we have been going through a tough time recently but please believe that we are taking the necessary steps to move forward. The board have a plan off the pitch, Pete and his team have a plan for on the pitch and these will all be made transparent to you all when they are set in stone.

Every conversation starts the same way, so hello come and have a chat.

“First you must believe you are the best, then make sure you are” - Bill Shankly

Come on you Saints.

Daniel

Saints

First Team Shirt Sponsor

Saints Partners - Visit www.stneotstownfc.co.uk to find out how to become a partner.

SAINTS FOOD TERRACE

We pride ourselves on being open minded with a particular emphasis on working closely with our business partners to ensure mutually beneficial achievements. Our aim is to continue developing football for all, to offer duel career pathways and to continue to engage and support the Community and local businesses.

BLAST FROM THE PAST SATURDAY 17TH OCTOBER 2015 Southern League Premier Division ST NEOTS TOWN

1

DORCHESTER TOWN

0

Last season the corresponding match to this had produced eleven goals – this match by contrast probably produced less than eleven clear chances and just one goal. However that was enough to deservedly give St Neots a clean sheet and all three points and take them to within three points of the play off places with two or three matches in hand of the clubs ahead of them.Once again their scorer was ace poacher Tom Meechan who now has sixteen goals in seventeen starts since moving up two steps in the football pyramid at the start of this season. Although St Neots injury list is beginning to improve with three senior players due back in the next couple of weeks or so there were still little genuine selection options for this match so the team was glad to welcome back Jamie Anton after suspension to replace the only partly fit Adam Tann who was on the substitutes bench. Dorchester seeking to win their way back to the National League after struggling last season looked a very compact and well organised side and had a good first half but faded as the game wore on. St Neots was well served in defence by acting skipper Tom Ward and the dependable Shane Blackett and there was another solid midfield display from Josh Beech and but for a couple of good second half saved by visiting keeper Shane Murphy they might have won by a bigger margin.

The first half saw two very evenly match sides try to make an impression but clear chances at either end were at a premium with defences comfortably in control. Josh Beech filling the midfield holding role was twice in attacking action early on glancing a near post header over the bar after ten minutes and five minutes later heading down for Isaac Galliford who blasted his effort high over the bar. Dorchester’s first two serious efforts on goal both finished up in the side netting from first Jonah Ayunga and then Bradley Tarbuck. However the visitors created the best two first half chances.After 34 minutes Charlie Davis and Lewis Morgan combined to set up Tarbuck and when Andy Wilton dived to parry his shot it fell kindly for Ben Watson whose follow-up shot was well smothered by the goalkeeper. Five minutes later St Neots failed to clear and Jonah Ayunga sent Tarbuck clear on the right but his shot was deflected on to the cross bar by an outstretched defensive leg. Three minutes before the break St Neots were denied a clear penalty when Meechan was brought down but Referee Mark Wardell opted to play the advantage rule only for Galliford through on goal to shoot over the bar again.

BLAST FROM THE PAST SATURDAY 17TH OCTOBER 2015 CONTINUED Jamie Anton had an early second half shot comfortably saved but St Neots playing a 4-3-3 formation with Lee Clarke just behind the front two were quickly having the better of the game. From a Galliford corner visiting keeper Shane Murphy produced the save of the match – a full length diving save from Meechan at the expense of another corner and then Clarke shot wide. The all-important goal came after 69 minutes when Galliford seemingly hemmed in on the bye line by two defenders did really well to produce an accurate cross to find the head of Ryan Hawkins and he unselfishly nodded it down for Tom Meechan to drive into the net. Charlie Davis shot high over the bar in a swift Dorchester counter attack but St Neots looked well in control and Murphy under pressure did well to push away a Hawkins free kick. The visitors tried to freshen up their attack by introducing two substitutes but St Neots defence was never seriously under threat and they twice broke clear – first for Clarke to fire over the bar and then for Meechan to wriggle between defender and keeper but off balance he could only lob on to the roof of the unguarded goal. It was not St Neots’ most convincing victory of the season but it was workmanlike and efficient and maintained their run of just one defeat in their last nine league matches.

St Neots Town: Wilton, Anton, Wilkinson, Beech, Ward, Blackett, Clarke, Longden, Meechan, Hawkins, Galliford Subs: Vieira, Tann, Horne, Mailancol and Hobbs Cards: Clarke (Y – 64) Goals: Meechan (69 mins) Dorchester Town: Murphy, Hanger, Smeeton, Martin, Walker, Dillon, Davis, Morgan, Ayunga, Watson, Tarbuck Subs: Crittenden (for Davis 77), Brookes (for Morgan 86), Farr, Taylor, Pashen and WalkerDavis.

Cards: Walker (Y – 72) Goals: none Attendance: 313 Referee: Mark Wardell (Bourne, Lincs) John Walker

Saints Partners - Visit www.stneotstownfc.co.uk to find out how to become a partner.

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Little Paxton, Saint Neots PE19, UK 07932 453477 St Neots Town FC is not just about football we are a community focused business. We have so much more going on which ultimately and significantly increases our footfall and our website site and social media reach.This in turn means that when you advertise with the Saints you get so much more for your money.

Saints Partners - Visit www.stneotstownfc.co.uk to find out how to become a partner.

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St Neots Town FC is not just about football we are a community focused business. We have so much more going on which ultimately and significantly increases our footfall and our website site and social media reach.This in turn means that when you advertise with the Saints you get so much more for your money.

JW Match looking ahead Spalding United SPALDING UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB Year founded: 1905 Chairman: Andrew Killingsworth Club Website: www.spaldingunited.net TODAY IS A REUNION OF A SORT BECAUSE IT IS THE FIRST LEAGUE MEETING OF OUR TWO CLUBS AT ST NEOTS SINCE 15/NOVEMBER/2003 A special welcome to our visitors for this afternoon’s Premier Division game in the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands. They are the players, officials and supporters of SPALDING UNITED FC who are appearing at Rowley Park for the first time since 15th November 2003 when we drew 1-1 with Steve Kuhne our marksman. Spalding went on that season to win the UCL Championship and promotion back to Step Four. We had met on five occasions at our former ground just down the road (details below) so this will be Spalding’s first visit to the Premier Plus Stadium. Our visitors have led a fairly nomadic existence switching between steps five and four since the millennium and this season they look to be making a determined effort to achieve Step Three status as prior to last Saturday they sat proudly in third place in the league table unbeaten so far in eight completed league matches when these notes were penned. Last Saturday they hosted Stafford Rangers in the third qualifying round of the FA Trophy having beaten league leaders Halesowen Town 3-0 on their last league outing. Unfortunately for them this was a step too far and they were beaten at home by the odd goal in three. However, they will continue to protect that unbeaten record as the season progresses.Our league meetings at home to Spalding since our reformation in 1994 shows one, win, one draw and three defeats so our lads will be keen to improve that record this afternoon.

Spalding’s best league performance came more than thirty years ago when they finished 6th in the Southern League Midlands Division in 1989/90. That year also saw them reach the quarter final of the FA Vase – an achievement equalled in 1996.97. They have also reached the FA Cup first round proper on two occasions in 1957/58 and again in 1964/65.

This season they bowed out of the FA Cup in the Preliminary Round losing 1-0 at home to Lincolnshire neighbours Stamford having beaten Deeping Rangers in the Extra Preliminary Round.

JW Match looking ahead Spalding United Glancing through my records I found details of a match played at Shortsands in September 1976 in which St Neots recorded a 1-0 victory over Spalding with Neil Rawlings making his senior debut for St Neots setting up the only goal of the game for Tony Hall after 52 minutes. Earlier Pike had twice been denied goals for the visitors by the woodwork and St Neots had goalkeeper Kevin Oldham to thank as he turned in the man of the match award. The two teams that day were as follows: St Neots: Kevin Oldham, Terry Oakley, Tony Quirke, Roger Currington, Steve Searle, Ian Hornby, Kim Harvey, Neil Rawlings, David Crocker-White, Tony Hall, Peter Galloway. the substitute was Bobby Hynes.

Spalding: (sorry no christian names!) Draper, King, Hudson, Blisczak, Merrill, Baxter, Biggs, Pike, Czarnecki, Murray, Coates. The substitute was a second Blisczak.

Referee: Mike Dimblebee (Stevenage, Hertfordshire) Previous meetings of our teams The full record of our recent League meetings (all UCL) are as follows:1995/96: St Neots 2-4 Spalding Utd

Spalding Utd 1-0 St Neots

1996/97: St Neots 1-2 Spalding Utd

Spalding Utd 1-2 St Neots

1997/98: St Neots 0-2 Spalding Utd

Spalding Utd 1-4 St Neots

1998/99: St Neots 2-0 Spalding Utd Spalding Utd 3-0 St Neots (Spalding promoted to Step Four at end of season) 2003/04: St Neots 1-1 Spalding Utd Spalding Utd 2-0 St Neots (Spalding promoted to Step Four again)

Enjoy the match John Walker

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To Advertise with the Saints contact our Commercial Director Daniel Dodson on 07928494493 or email danieldodson25@hotmail.com

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Saints Partners - Visit www.stneotstownfc.co.uk to find out how to become a partner.

St Neots Town FC is not just about football we are a community focused business. We have so much more going on which ultimately and significantly increases our footfall and our website site and social media reach.This in turn means that when you advertise with the Saints you get so much more for your money.

Saints Partners - Visit www.stneotstownfc.co.uk to find out how to become a partner.

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Saints Partners - Visit www.stneotstownfc.co.uk to find out how to become a partner.

St Neots Town FC is not just about football we are a community focused business. We have so much more going on which ultimately and significantly increases our footfall and our website site and social media reach.This in turn means that when you advertise with the Saints you get so much more for your money.

Saints Partners - Visit www.stneotstownfc.co.uk to find out how to become a partner.

Call 01480 470931 / Mobile 07950 496568

St Neots Town FC is not just about football we are a community focused business. We have so much more going on which ultimately and significantly increases our footfall and our website site and social media reach.This in turn means that when you advertise with the Saints you get so much more for your money.

Saints Partners - Visit www.stneotstownfc.co.uk to find out how to become a partner.

St Neots Town FC is not just about football we are a community focused business. We have so much more going on which ultimately and significantly increases our footfall and our website site and social media reach.This in turn means that when you advertise with the Saints you get so much more for your money.

Saints Partners - Visit www.stneotstownfc.co.uk to find out how to become a partner.

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St Neots Town FC is not just about football we are a community focused business. We have so much more going on which ultimately and significantly increases our footfall and our website site and social media reach.This in turn means that when you advertise with the Saints you get so much more for your money.

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JW Match Report Sporting Khalsa (H) 01-10-22 NORTHERN PREMIER LEAGUE – MIDLANDS DIVISION St Neots Town

2

Sporting Khalsa

4

A fourth goal for the visiting side four minutes into added time gave a false impression of this contest after St Neots had fought back from two goals down and missed a second half penalty kick. With a patched-up side, they had fought back after the break to get a foothold in the contest after being outplayed for long spells in the first half, but a late goal deep into added time gave the visitors an impressive victory by a two goals margin that was more complimentary than they deserved. However, it should also be noted that goalkeeper Jamie Greygoose gave a fine performance in the St Neots goal and that the visitors’ finishing was very wayward or the victory might have been even greater. St Neots injury list had lengthened again forcing Manager Pete Gill into further changes that stretched his squad to the limit. Toib Adeyemi, Dan Barton and Declan Nche joined Charlie Lewis, Theo Sackey-Mensah and Brandon Njoku on the injured list and Harvey Beckett had departed after just seven impressive performances this season leaving Jaydyn Lott as his replacement loan from Cambridge United.

Jamie Greygoose was in early action saving a close-range effort from Josh McKenzie and then forced to go full length to push away a well-placed effort from James McGrady for a corner. From that cross he was again in action tipping an effort from Liam Armstrong for another corner. When St Neots did break out Andre Hasanally saw his effort blocked but the pressure on the St Neots goal was relentless as new boy Jaydyn Lott did well to block another effort by Armstrong. Then after 24 minutes a cross from Sean Williams was not cleared and Armstrong clipped a shot through a crowded defence to open the scoring. Looking well offside Miracle Okafor went clear of the defence but Greygoose spread himself to block with his legs and on the stroke of half time the visitors extended their lead as Okafor set up by Josh McKenzie added their second goal. St Neots defiantly kept going in time added and Saleem Akanbi turned in the area to pull a goal back to give his side second half hope.

JW Match Report Sporting Khalsa (H) 01-10-22 St Neots began well after the break and Hasanally had a shot well saved by Samuel Arnold before after 64 minutes, visiting defender Tesfa Robinson handled in the area, but the usually reliable Trey Charles saw his spot kick pushed away by the goalkeeper. After the visiting custodian had saved well from Akanbi, the visitors reinstated their two goals advantage when Miracle Okafor was played clear of the defence and this time, he made no mistake with just the keeper to beat. However, five minutes later Trey Charles atoned for his penalty miss when he linked up with a great run by Aaron Smith to reduce the deficit to a single goal. St Neots then redoubled their efforts in search of a late equaliser but deep into added time substitute Kieran Whittaker converted after a shot by Lewis Archer had been blocked by a defender. It was hard on a St Neots side that had fought back after a pallid first half display.

St Neots Town: Greygoose, Tarpey, Smith, Anderson, Lott, Stallard, Osei, Charles, Mason, Hasanally, Akanbi.

Subs: Adeyemi (for Stallard 81 mins), Stainsby (for Anderson 89 mins), Clark and Smith.

Cards: Hasanally ( Y ) 90+5 mins Goals: Akanbi(45+3 mins), Charles (78 mins) Sporting Khalsa: Arnold, Parsons, Cunningham, Fullaway, Robinson, Ferrier, Armstrong, Williams, McKenzie, Akafor, McGrady Subs: Franco (for Fullaway 36 mins), Sidibie (for Cunningham 70 mins), Whittaker (for McKenzie 79 mins), Worsey and Archer.

Cards: McKenzie (Y – 44 mins), Ferrier (Y – 90+1 min) Goals: Okafor 2 (45 mins & 73 mins), Armstrong (24 mins), Whittaker (90+4 mins) Referee: David Nicholson (Witney) Attendance: 230

John Walker

JW Match Report Sutton Coldfield (A) 04-10-22 NORTHERN PREMIER LEAGUE – MIDLANDS DIVISION Sutton Coldfield Town

6

St Neots Town

0

St Neots third away trip to the Birmingham area in as many weeks ended in a disappointing heavy defeat although the final score line did not accurately reflect the contest. For half an hour in each half St Neots were more than equal to their hosts but curiously conceded three quick goals in that last quarter of an hour of each half. Their hosts who had famously dumped league leaders Halesowen out of the FA Trophy in their last home game were sharper and produced a display of exceptional finishing to record this comprehensive victory. St Neots were without two central defenders due to injury and unavailability and so had to resort to moving striker Robbie Mason back to centre half – an experiment that did not come off. The defence conceded two careless goals just before the break and although they recovered well that final onslaught with two home substitutes adding the three late goals was something to reflect on in the long midweek trip back home. Dan Barton returned to the side after injury replacing the injured Charlie Stallard in the reshaped line-up, but a recurrence of that injury forced him off early in the second half.

Although St Neots defended quite well in the very early stages repelling efforts

by Ceesay Dampha, Rhys Hiton and Trea Bertie with visiting keeper Jamie Greygoose in constant action. They then settled with Trey Charles sending an Andre Hasanally free kick over the bar and Charles set up Saleem Akanbi who forced home keeper Jonathan Brown to dive bravely at his feet to smother the shot. However, after 31 minutes the home side took the lead with a slick move as Cameron Collins played Rhys Hilton clear and he made no mistake. Two minutes later poor defending let in James Spruce for a second goal from a Hilton cross.St Neots tried to respond as Charles had a shot blocked but a killer goal a minute before the break set up Sutton Coldfield for an inevitable victory.

With no danger in sight Hasanally was too easily dispossessed in midfield by Collins who set up Trea Bernie for a simple finish and a 3-0 half time lead for his side.

JW Match Report Sutton Coldfield (A) 04-10-22

St Neots came out after the break in a much more determined frame of mind. Jaydyn Lott headed narrowly over the bar from a corner and then with substitute Jack Brewer on for the limping Dan Barton they took the game to their hosts.Hasanally had a net bound shot blocked by a defender and Charles shot wide after good approach play by Aaron Smith.Akanbi tested the home keeper as St Neots were clearly looking to repair that late first half damage. However, a brace of substitutions by the home side saw them regain their attacking mojo. Within a couple of minutes after their introduction Stuart Hendrie set up fellow substitute Sam Ellis for a finish that seemed to shatter St Neots confidence after 79 minutes and then the third home change brought on Fortune Maphosa and he set up Hendrie for a fifth home goal with almost his first touch. Home keeper Brown then denied Akanbi a late consolation goal for the visitors and Hendrie then claimed his second goal two minutes from time to complete the rout.

St Neots Town: Greygoose, Tarpey, Smith, Anderson, Mason, Lott, Barton, Hasanally, Charles, Osei, Akanbi.

Subs: Brewer (for Barton 51 mins), Badiani (for Hasanally 79 mins), Lewis and SackeyMensah.

Cards: Hasanally (Y - 58 mins), Tarpey (Y – 63 mins) Goals: none Sutton Coldfield Town: Brown, Sawyer, Armitage, Todd, Beresford, Mills, Dampha, Collins, Bertie, Hilton, Spruce, Subs: Ellis (for Mills 66 mins), Hendrie (for Collins 78 mins), Maphosa (for Todd 82 mins), Mansfield and Hart.

Cards: Collins (Y – 76 mins), Hendrie (Y – 90+4 mins) Goals: Hendrie 2 (82 & 88 mins), Hilton (31 mins), Spruce (33 mins), Bertie (45+1 min), Ellis (79mins) Attendance: 126 Referee: Alan Cox (Coventry) John Walker

JW Match Report Gresley Rovers (A) 08-10-22 NORTHERN PREMIER LEAGUE – MIDLANDS DIVISION Gresley Rovers

1

St Neots Town

2

A first victory in six league and cup matches came as a relief to St Neots who had dropped into the relegation zone of the league table prior to this match.

An own goal and a well taken second just after the break gave them the platform for this victory that lifted them up three places in the table, but they had to absorb a late period of pressure to return home with the points.

Manager Pete Gill decided to reshape his side playing an extra defender in a 53-2 formation and with only one goal conceded – that from a corner, his gamble certainly paid dividends. His changes saw leading scorer Trey Charles start on the bench along with Andre Hasanally and with Dan Barton injured again, the three players that came into the side were Toib Adeyemi, Declan Nche fit after injury, and new signing full back Patrick Campbell.

The contest began in dramatic fashion when after just four minutes in the first significant attacking action of the match St Neots won a corner. Aaron Smith’s searching cross appeared to clear the players at the near post and went in off the home goalkeeper’s legs for a strange opening goal. That seemed to settle the visitors’ nerves, although their revised line-up allowed the home side territorial possession in midfield.From an Albie Lansdown free kick Ellis Everard had a close range shot blocked and Adam Garmson should have done better than shoot wide after a good move by the home side. St Neots were always threatening from long throws by Aaron Smith into the penalty area and Saleem Akanbi had a shot blocked after neat work by Declan Nche. Then after half an hour debutant defender Patrick Campbell brough down Ellis Evans as he raced into the area and a penalty kick was awarded. Evans himself took the kick but visiting keeper Jamie Greygoose guessed right to save the kick. Alex Morris was sent clear on goal, but he sent his finish wide and then Manny Osei was fouled, and he seemed to retaliate but the Referee smoothed things over without resorting to his notebook. He did however book Toib Adeyemi on the stroke of half time for a tackle when the St Neots defender appeared to have won the ball fairly.

JW Match Report Gresley Rovers (A) 08-10-22 Each side made a change at half time and with three minutes St Neots had extended their lead. Nche won a corner which was not cleared by the home defence and through a packed penalty area Robbie Mason struck a hard low shot past the unsighted home keeper to claim his first goal of the campaign.

That signalled a determined counter-offensive by the home side and after 58 minutes from a Kane Lee corner, Alby Lansdown beat the visiting keeper with a well-struck shot to level the scores. St Neots sent on top scorer Trey Charles in a bid to boost their attack and he was quickly in action testing Lewis Fenny inn the home goal. Then after 72 minutes Greygoose had to produce the save of the match full length to keep out a low effort from Lee. Home skipper Kieran Wells squandered his sides’ best chance of an equaliser heading over the bar from close range and Charles twice had chances to confirm St Neots victory but the second time he was hauled down earning a red card for home defender Levi Read. A result for St Neots that replicated a 2010 FA Vase result on the same ground.

St Neots Town: Greygoose, Lott, Campbell, Anderson, Mason, Adeyemi, Tarpey, Nche, Akanbi, Osei, Smith.

Subs: Sackey-Mensah (for Campbell 46 mins), Charles (for Tarpey 63 mins), Hasanally (for Osei 85 mins) and Brewer.

Cards: Adeyemi (Y – 45 mins), Lott (Y – 59 mins), Hasanally (Y – 90+3 mins) Goals: Mason (48 mins), OG (4 mins) Gresley Rovers: Fenny, Clark, Gough, Lansdown, Donaldson, Morris, Williams, Evans, Wells, Garmson, Lee. Subs: Blowers (for Clark 46 mins), Berry (for Garmson 61 mins), Reid (for Donaldson 68 mins), Patterson and Hunniford.

Cards: Reid (RED – 90+4 mins), Blowers (Y – 84 mins) Goal: Lansdown (58mins) Attendance: 330 Referee: Ben Cooke (Birmingham) John Walker

Opponent Spotlight SPALDING UNITED FC SSPALDING UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB – HISTORY 2022/23 For decades it has been documented that Spalding United was formed in 1921, but research into club history has revealed that in fact, its existence goes back much earlier.

A chance sighting of an early team photograph on social media prompted some Investigation and evidence gained shows that the club was formed back in 1905 following the amalgamation of the Fulney Institute and Victorias clubs was confirmed at a meeting in a local hostelry when it was decided that the name should be Spalding United. A committee was formed and the home ground as to be the Low Grounds, but references were also made of games being played on Pinchbeck Road (Black Swan Field) which is now known as The Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field.

In the early days the club, fielding A and B teams, played in the Boston League and progressed to the Spalding and District League and to the Peterborough League winning a number of trophies and were runner-up to Boston in the Lincolnshire FA competition before a crowd of 4,000 fans. Their first honours, however, came in 1933 when they won the Lincolnshire Junior Cup. The feat was repeated in 1938 and they progressed to senior level and won the Lincolnshire Senior B Cup in 1951. In 1952 the Tulips recorded their ground record attendance when playing Peterborough United, then a Midland League side, in a qualifying round of the FA Cup. A crowd of 6,973 packed into the ground and saw Spalding leading 2-0 with ten minutes to play but Posh fought back to equalise and went on to win the replay 3-0. Further progress followed with success in the Lincolnshire Senior A Cup in 1953.

The club has reached the First Round proper of the FA Cup on two occasions. In 1957/58 they lost 3-1 to Durham City and in 1964/65 they played Football League opposition for the first time, being beaten 5-3 in a thrilling encounter at Newport County. Spalding became United Counties League champions for the first time in 1955, having been runners-up in 1951, 1952 and 1953. They joined the Eastern Counties League but were without success and joined the Central Alliance League. They stayed just one season before transferring to the re-formed Midland League in 1961. In 1968 they re-joined the United Counties League and won the title for a second time in 1975.

Spalding changed competitions once more in 1982, joining the Northern Counties East League. They were champions in 1984 but again returned to the United Counties League in 1986. A third title was won in 1988, a season which also saw them lift the Lincolnshire Senior A Cup. This time their success earned promotion to the Southern League and their first two seasons in the Midland Division saw them finish eighth and sixth in the table.

Opponent Spotlight SPALDING UNITED FC In 1989/90 Spalding enjoyed an excellent run in the FA Vase, progressing to a home Quarter-Final tie with Guiseley, who included former Leicester City and England striker Frank Worthington in their side. A crowd of 2,020 saw Guiseley win 3-1 in extra-time, having equalised in stoppage time. Things took a down turn with relegation back to the United Counties League the following season. The club went into decline, but recovery came in 1995 when Spalding won the League Knockout Cup and in 1997 they were runners-up in the league, as well as reaching the last-16 of the FA Vase when they were defeated by Taunton Town.

In 1998 they finished third in the league and again reached the Quarter-Final stage of the FA Vase, losing 2-1 at home to eventual winners Tiverton Town in front of 2,038 spectators. In 1998/99 the club won the United Counties League championship, the Lincolnshire A Cup and the Hinchingbrooke Cup. As UCL champions Spalding regained membership of the Southern League and competed in the Eastern Division for season 1999/2000. They finished in a creditable 15th position.

The next three seasons proved less successful and despite narrowly avoiding relegation they eventually returned to the UCL. Season 2003/04 saw a revival in fortunes, winning the UCL championship and the East Anglian Cup for the first time, beating Aveley 3-1.

2004/05 was the club’s debut in the Northern Premier League, and despite only finishing 18th they managed to retain the East Anglian cup, beating Lowestoft 4-2 in the Final.

The following season proved less successful, and it wasn’t until the 2006/07 season that saw the Tulips return to the Southern League for a third time. But in the final phase of FA restructuring the club was relocated back to the NPL for the 2007/08 season, competing in Division One (South). The club then experienced a number of difficult seasons trying to maintain their status at Step 4.

2011/12 started on a high with a partnership deal with top local junior club Spalding Athletic JFC, putting us in contact with age group football from under-7 to under-18.

Sadly the season ended in relegation but despite this set back they aimed at a return to Step 4. In 2012/13 they narrowly missed winning promotion by one point but won the UCL Knockout Cup, beating promoted St Ives Town 4-0 in the final.

The UCL championship trophy, however, was brought back to town in convincing style in 2013/14 season with the title secured with four matches of the season remaining.

Looking to build on the success of winning promotion to Step 4, the “Boardroom” was strengthened by the appointment of a Chief Executive Officer in local businessman and former player, Malcolm Gray.

Opponent Spotlight SPALDING UNITED FC With the formation of a reserve side and a commitment to strengthen the club as part of the local community, the club look forward to the challenge of establishing itself at Step 4. A return to the NPL for the 2014/15 season was highly successful with the team always placed in the leading group and eventually finished in a very respectful seventh position in Division One South. The season also saw the introduction of an under-18 team.

The end of season brought changes off the field with chairman and director Chris Toynton stepping down and a consortium of local investors taking up the reins with the aim and challenge of taking the club forward. Andrew Gay was appointed as the new chairman. The 2016/17 campaign evolved as their best, finishing in their highest ever placing in the modern Football Pyramid. The Tulips finished in third position in NPL First Division South, just missing out on promotion when losing by the odd goal in three away to second placed Witton Albion. The Tulips had, in fact, never been outside the top three all season. In addition, the club had three players – Nathan Stainfield (for the third time), Michael Duggan and Bradley Wells named in the South Division team of the year.

Following an indifferent start to the 2018/19 season manager Chris Rawlinson and chairman Andy Gay mutually agreed to part company. Assistant manager Matt Easton was put in temporary charge of the team but formally took over the reins towards the end of September.The season, however, was largely disappointing with the team languishing in the lower regions almost throughout and ultimately just avoiding relegation.

The end of October 2019 heralded a new era with new ownership of the club with an influx of new shareholders and directors in a complete restructure of the company and board. The new emphasis being putting the community of Spalding at the heart of everything the club envisaged.

Existing shareholders Rod Quinton and Graham Chappell welcoming local businessman and solicitor Paul Turnell as a new shareholder. The three were joined by shareholder/director positions for Andrew Gay, Jennifer Gay, Eddie Reeve and Phil Brennan. Successful businessman Iain Crawford was also welcomed onto the ‘board’.

Andy Gay would continue as chairman with wife Jennifer as cub treasurer.

In early December manager Matt Easton rocked the club by unexpectedly resigning. His assistant Lewis Thorogood stepped up to fill the breach on a temporary basis as the season was forced to a premature end due to the Covid 19 virus epidemic, he was handed the position on a permanent basis. However, following a good start to the 2020 season with two wins, three successive defeats led to him stepping down into a new role within the club.

Opponent Spotlight SPALDING UNITED FC A new era for the club began on August 19, 2020, when it was announced that pending FA and League approval, with AK Holdings agreeing the purchase of Spalding United Football Club. Andrew Killingsworth owner of AK Holdings would be the new and proud owner of SUFC with Leigh Porter installed as the new CEO. Former chairman Andrew Gay will remain at the club as vice-chairman.

For Season 2021/22 high hopes were expected with ex-Peterborough Star Gabby Zakuani in charge however results were disappointing and Zakuani left the role in December to be replaced by ex-Wisbech Town man Brett Whaley. The Tulips maintained a mid-table position despite some excellent results against high flying Halesowen Town, B

Opponent Spotlight - PLAYER PROFILES SPALDING UNITED FC Michael Duggan "Duggy" is in his 10th season with The Tulips and is still as good as year one! Before signing for Spalding the veteran shot stopper had a successful spells for St Neots Town where he was part of their successful 2012/13 Southern League Central championship winning side.

Dan George Dan joined The Tulips from NPL side Cambridge City in the summer following a successful pre-season, he's well known locally having played in between the sticks for a number of Peterborough based team in his early years before rightly so stepping up with successful spells with Corby and Cambridge City.

Scott Floyd "Floydy" is a product of the Spalding United youth set up and his whole hearted defensive displays prove what his home town club means to him, Scott's a versatile player who is comfortable in both defence and in midfield.

Jack Lynch Left sided defender Lynch was a product of Aston Villa youth before a successful swap to Walsall U18 where he developed his skills further, Jack moved to The Tulips from Coleshill last season.

Aaron Hart Aaron is a product of Peterborough United youth set up and graduated to the U23s, Aaron is another later addition to the squad last season and joined us from fellow NPL side Wisbech Town and is a talented right sided defender.

Gianluca Bucci "Luca" is another with a solid football education having experienced a successful U18 spell with Lincoln City, left sided Gianluca joined The Tulips permanently from Gainsborough Trinity following a successful loan spell.

Nathan Stainsfield Captain Fantastic "Staino" needs no introduction at Spalding...but we will anyway, Nathan cleared the board at the clubs end of season awards and finished off with a place in the NPL Midlands Team of the Year following his impressive campaign last season in the centre of defence.

Sam Cartwright Sam enjoyed two years at Peterborough United as a professional before joining The Tulips mid-way through last season, he's committed to Spalding again and we look forward to seeing what he can achieve in his first full season as an exciting energetic and physical defender.

Jack Withers Jack is another young and talented defender with an impressive football CV having spent time with Swansea and Boston United before moving closer to home with Spalding United, a tall and imposing defender.

Opponent Spotlight - PLAYER PROFILES SPALDING UNITED FC Danny Draper Danny is a tough ball winning midfielder who has experience Step 4 football with the likes of Stamford, Corby and Wisbech, he joined The Tulips in preseason following some impressive performances in a number of friendlies.

Matt Sparrow Tricky winger Matt is another pre-season addition and again brings a number of years' experience with the likes of Peterborough Sports, Bedford and Yaxley, he's and exciting wide player full of goals.

James Clifton James has the pedigree to make a real impression at The Tulips and his football CV is impressive and includes the likes of Oxford City, Nuneaton and Alfreton, James can play in midfield and defence and has shown in his short time at the club that he can be a real integral part of The Tulips squad.

Archie Jones Archie is another product of the Peterborough United youth set up and following a successful loan spell spent an impressive couple of seasons with National league side Bishops Stortford, the skilful midfielder spent a short loan spell at The Tulips before making that loan spell permanent in the summer.

Bradley Rolt Another graduate of Peterborough United, Bradley is a busy goal scorer with an eye for goal and has spent the last few seasons at National League side Brackley and loan spells at Braintree and Bohemians.

Elliot Sandy Experienced and versatile Sandy is another with an impressive football CV having experienced successful spells at Oxford City, Kettering, Rushden & Diamonds and Banbury, he adds just as much value off the pitch as on and is a true leader.

Toby Hilliard Toby joined The Tulips from Dereham where he was in integral part of their squad having moved there from National League side Kings Lynn, Toby is a hardworking and physical forward with an eye for goal.

Dylan Edge Dylan has had a very positive preseason where he finished top goal scorer which was a reward for all his hard work over the summer. The Former Kings Lynn striker will be looking to make an impression in his first full season with The Tulips.

Ben Seymour-Shove Ex-Peterborough United, St Ives, Cambridge City and Soham striker Ben Seymour-Shove joined The Tulips towards the end of last and made an instant impact by scoring on his debut, Bens a hard working goal scorer who will be looking to add to his goals tally.

Opponent Spotlight - PLAYER PROFILES SPALDING UNITED FC Sam Spencer Sam joins the Tulips following a lengthy spell out with injury, now he's back he'll be looking to show his obvious quality that saw him pick up player of the season and the captains armband at his last club Wisbech Town.

Josh Moreman Josh was the Tulips big summer signing and he comes with a long list of honours during his lengthy spell with National League side Peterborough Sports, he's no stranger to the Tulips having spent time with Spalding prior and becoming a fans favourite, on form he's definitely one to be admired from the stands.

Jordan O’Brien Attacking player O’Brien is a young and exciting prospect who learnt his trade from Sheffield Wednesdays U23s following brief spell with The Tulips he made the move to The Sir Halley Stewart in the summer and has shown already what a talent he is.

Stefan Broccoli Newcastle U18s and U23s is where Stefan learnt his trade and Stef is a 100% full blooded passionate Italian footballer who has spent time in the professional leagues in Italy, this pint sized player is definitely one who can have a big season with The Tulips.

Liam Marshall Liam joined the Tulips mid-way through last season and followed the manager from Wisbech. At home either in midfield or defence. Can proudly boast being called up for Scotland at youth level.

St Neots Town FC Playing Record Season 2022/23

Saints Partners - Visit www.stneotstownfc.co.uk to find out how to become a partner.

1 KESTER WAY, ST NEOTS, PE19 6SL

01480 211771 www.flamesgrillstneots.co.uk Free local delivery (minimum order applies) Delivery up to 8.0 miles (see prices) Card payments accepted We pride ourselves on being open minded with a particular emphasis on working closely with our business partners to ensure mutually beneficial achievements. Our aim is to continue developing football for all, to offer duel career pathways and to continue to engage and support the Community and local businesses.

Manager - Peter Gill Assistant - Sean Greygoose Coach - Marc Abbott GK Coach - Gary Dean Physios - Craig Lambert & Sam Roblett Kitman - Mick Hunt

Manager – Brett Whaley Assistant - Bruno Porfirio GK Coach - Ben Derbyshire Physio - Sam Palmer

Squad List

Squad List

Jamie Greygoose (GK) Darryl Reid (GK) Alex Bent (GK) Theo Sackey-Mensah Aaron Smith Toib Adeyemi Charlie Lewis Jaydyn Lott Joe Tarpey Declan Nche Callum Anderson Manny Osei Saleem Akambi Daniel Barton Andre Hassanally Brandon Njoku Robbie Mason Tremayne Charles

Michael Duggan Dan George Scott Floyd Jack Lynch Aaron Hart Gianluca Bucci Nathan Stainsfield Sam Cartwright Jack Withers.

Danny Draper Matt Sparrow James Clifton Archie Jones Bradley Rolt Elliot Sandy Toby Hilliard Dylan Edge Ben Seymour-Shove Sam Spencer Josh Moreman Jordan O’Brien Stefan Broccoli Liam Marshall

Colours Navy/Light Blue Quarters Dark Blue Shorts Light Blue Socks

Colours Yellow Shirts Blue Shorts Yellow Socks

Referee

Martyn Gospel

Assistant 1 Jamie Stevenson

Next Home Match versus Dereham Town FC Tuesday 18th October 7.45 pm KO

Assistant 2 Paul-Valentin Mihalache