MOOR TALK | Solihull Moors vs FC Halifax Town | Digital Programme by SolihullMoors

CLUBDIRECTORY

Solihull Moors Football Club CIC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Solihull Moors Holdings CIC which in turn is a wholly owned subsidiary of the ultimate parent company, Solihull Moors Group Limited, Darryl Eales, Timothy Murphy and Calvin Barnett are the largest shareholders whose individual shareholdings exceed 10%.

Key Information

Founded: 2007

Ground: Damson Park

Telephone: 0121 705 6770

Full Members of The Football Association of The National League Affiliated to: Birmingham Football Association

Club Colours: Yellow & Blue Away Colours: White & Red

Main Sponsor: LivingWell/VEXT

PLAYERSPONSORS FIRST TEAM 2024/25

Laurie Walker Aaron Flahavan Alex Whitmore

James Clarke

Kade Craig

JordanTunnicliffe

Joel Shambrook

Kyle Morrison

Finn Howell

Joe Newton

Olly Tipton

STUARTMAYO

Tyler Bruck

chairman notes

Welcome to today’s game against Halifax Town. It’s a great pleasure to entertain the supporters, players and officials from our visitors.

It’s fair to say this has been an interesting week and certainly unexpected.

From a personal perspective it’s been bitter sweet and certainly reflects the topsy turvy world of football

On Sunday, we were approached by Barrow AFC and gave them permission to speak to Andy Whing. By 6 o ’clock the same day, terms had been agreed and both Whingy and Craig Pead were on their way to pastures new

As a friend as well as colleague, I’m delighted for Whingy as he is both a top man and an excellent coach When we appointed him, I know most fans were a little surprised but Andy, alongside Wardy and the first team staff and players, did us proud last season and so nearly got us into the EFL.

Wardy, myself and Whingy worked exceptionally well together and he leaves the club with our best wishes for the future He will always be assured of a warm welcome whenever he visits the club - and given his locality, I hope this is on a regular basis.

I’d also like to say my personal thanks to the first team staff led by Richard Stearman who have managed this week with consummate professionalism and I have no doubt that Stears will be a Head Coach in the future. Right now, I am delighted that he has earned a well deserved promotion to Matt’s assistant

Turning to Matt, I am similarly delighted that we have been able to attract him to the club.

We had many highly respected applicants but Matt was the outstanding candidate for many reasons

He intelligent, articulate, principled, knows the league and already has a good understanding of Moors, our ethos and our ambition allied a real hunger and humility to continue to build on our strong foundations.

Matt referenced exceptionally well, including club’s gets formerly managed and is well known to several of the current squad We wish him every success in his new role.

On the pitch, we arrive today on the back of a couple of poor results and disappointing performances after an excellent run over the festive period

This has to some extent characterised our somewhat inconsistent season but everyone around the squad believes we can maintain our push for the play offs and that we have a squad more than capable of delivering this.

Halifax have their own play off aspirations and it will be another tough, competitive game.

I fully expect us to be totally up for the game and with your support, I’m sure we can deliver an exciting last 3 or 4 months of the season.

Solihull Moors are delighted to announce that Matt Taylor has become the club’s new Head Coach.

Matt, 43, enjoyed a long and distinguished playing career with over 600 appearances, mainly in the Premier League with Portsmouth, Bolton Wanderers, West Ham United, and Burnley and then in the Football League with Luton Town, Northampton Town and Swindon Town.

He began his coaching career with Swindon before returning to the Premier League at Spurs to coach their under 18 side. Matt then enjoyed success at Walsall followed by a spell in charge at Shrewsbury Town in League One. Most recently he has been managing Wealdstone, where his general approach, philosophy and professionalism impressed Moors Chairman Darryl Eales, who added;

“This week has been bittersweet from a personal perspective and reflects the topsy turvy world of football.”

"On the one hand, I’m delighted for Whingy as he is both a top man and an excellent coach Supported by Wardy and the first team staff and players, Whingy and Peady did us proud last season and so nearly got us into the EFL.

"Wardy, myself and Whingy worked exceptionally well together and he has left with our best wishes for the future. He will always be assured of a warm welcome whenever he visits the club - and given his locality, I hope this is on a regular basis.

"Similarly, I’m absolutely delighted that we have been able to attract Matt to the club. We had many highly respected applicants, but Matt was the outstanding candidate for many reasons.

"He’s intelligent, articulate, principled, knows the league and already has a good understanding of Moors, our ethos and our ambition allied to a real hunger and humility to continue to build on our strong foundations.

"I’m also delighted, we will have continuity with Richard Stearman being promoted to become Matt’s Assistant and Kevin Poole, Megan Reesby and the rest of the backroom team here to offer their advice, support and expertise ”

Upon being appointed Head Coach, Matt said:

“I’d like to thank Darryl, Wardy and the Board for this opportunity. It’s a great club with big plans and ambitions, on and off the pitch, and I am really looking forward to playing my part in that

“I have been made to feel at home straight away and I am absolutely determined to repay the trust that has been placed in me by building a successful team playing good football to entertain the fans.”

Director of Football, Stephen Ward, added:

“I’ve worked with Matt before and he’s hardworking, knowledgeable and has a way of getting the best out of those around him. He has a great backroom team around him and the backing and support of everyone at the club. We start with a home game on Saturday and we urge the Moors fans to come along, get behind him and the players, and get a new era off to a winning start.”

Welcome to Solihull Moors, Matt!

Matt Taylor Joins Solihull Moors as New Head Coach: "Excited and Ready to Get Started"

Solihull Moors have officially appointed Matt Taylor as their new head coach, a move that marks an exciting chapter for both Taylor and the club. Speaking in his first interview, the former Portsmouth man expressed his delight and enthusiasm for the opportunity, acknowledging the rapid nature of the transition and his eagerness to get to work.

"I'm really, really happy to be here," Taylor said. "Football moves quickly, and it's been a bit of a whirlwind, but I'm extremely proud to have been given this opportunity. The club has made significant strides both on and off the pitch in recent seasons, and I'm excited to be a part of it."

Taylor, who previously managed Wealdstone, admitted that the decision to leave was a tough one, but he firmly believes it was the right choice.

"It was a really difficult decision to leave Wealdstone, and I'm grateful for everything they have done for me. However, the opportunity to work with a fantastic group of players, an excellent director of football, and a visionary chairman was too good to turn down "

Matt also spoke about the thorough and respectful recruitment process conducted by club officials "From the moment I was approached, I was impressed by how professional and respectful Darryl and Stephen were. They ensured everything was done the right way, and that was important to me. I value working with good people, and I believe the leadership here aligns with my values."

He emphasised that his relationship with the club's chairman and director of football would be crucial in the journey ahead, adding, "I look forward to working with both of them to bring success to the club."

The newly appointed Head Coach has wasted no time getting started, having already led his first training session He acknowledged the support he has received from the staff and players. "This isn't about me; it's about the entire team – the players, the staff, and everyone who contributes to the club. I've leaned on the staff to get a feel for the training ground and the squad, and I’ve been really impressed by the camaraderie here."

Looking ahead to their upcoming fixture against Halifax, Taylor remains optimistic. "The players have been excellent in training, and we ' re fully focused on getting three points this weekend. The hard work and commitment are there, and that's a great foundation to build on. "

When asked about his vision for the team, Taylor emphasised hard work, effort, and commitment. "Fans can expect to see a team that gives everything on the pitch – desire, application, and a never-give-up attitude. We want to play expansive and exciting football, but above all, we want to make our supporters proud "

He stressed the importance of community engagement, stating his intent to grow the club both on and off the field "We want to bring in new supporters, get local businesses involved, and create an atmosphere that represents the people of Solihull."

As Taylor embarks on his tenure at Solihull Moors, his enthusiasm and belief in the club's potential are evident. "I'm quietly confident in what we can achieve together. With the quality we have in the squad and the right mentality, we can make this a successful season. "

The journey starts this Saturday with Moors’ next fixture, and supporters will be eager to see how the Head Coach's influence takes shape on the pitch.

ACTION SHOTS

The best of the action with Richard King

Alex Whitmore, doing battle this time , I like the shap the players in this shot, which in turn leads the eye to the ball, which to me is in a perfect place for the fra

Not mine this one, it’s one from, Fletcher at full stretch having got a shot off, and the two defenders around him, also in the background is the Mural of Keith Flint of The Prodigy as the band were formed in the town. Bostock and Barrett both going up to block a cross, it was gathered safety by the keeper in the end, I did have another similar series of pictures where Whits was clattered into by Killian and ended up on the floor holding his head.

Joe Newton out jumps “old Moor” Jacob Pinnington, it was a great battle all afternoon between the ExColleagues, and I think it was honours even by the end of the game, it was good to see “Pinno” again, before the game he said he would be chasing me for pictures after the game, always good to see the ex- Moors doing well.

Marcel Oakley chasing down a long Braintree pass down the flank, I like the determination and the body shape here, it did eventually go out for a goal kick, and Marcel also fell over, but full marks for effort,

HOME & AWAY SHIRTS ON SALE

solihull moors supporters association

Hello and a warm welcome to all home and visiting Halifax fans to today’s game from the Solihull Moors Supporters Association.

Matchday Activities

The SMSA is back with a full suite of matchday activities this weekend including:

Star of the Day Interview- a member of the supporter association will interview one of the players or a key member of matchday staff for about 5-10 minutes in the Trevor Stevens Suite

SMSA 50/50 raffle- it’s £2 a go or 3 for £5 with the winning ticket receiving half the money collected

SMSA Man of the Match Interview- in the Trevor Stevens Suite after full time

Please do join us in the Trevor Stevens Suite before the game, at half time and after the game to get involved

Upcoming Away Travel

We have coach travel available for our upcoming away fixtures. Details can be found below:

Saturday 1st February – Wealdstone

Saturday 15th February- Barnet

Wednesday 19th February – Woking: (for this coach to go ahead we need a minimum of 20 supporters to have booked a seat by 9th February)

Spaces on all the coaches are available on the club website: https://solihullmoorsfc.ticketco.events/uk/en or you can call the away travel number 07988 579 408 or speak to any SMSA Committee Member for further details.

If you have any questions or want to contact the supporters association please email: yoursmsa@gmail.com or speak to any member of the SMSA Committee on matchdays at the Moors.

WELCOME,Halifax!

Welcome to Damson Park, Shaymen! Thank you for travelling 132 miles to be here for this evening’s National League fixture.

the boss

CHRIS MILLINGTON

Millington was appointed manager of the Shaymen at the start of the 2022/23 season following the departure of Pete Wild to Barrow, who Chris had been assistant to for three seasons. He finished 11th in his first season and saw his side win 1-0 at Wembley to lift the FA Trophy. Last season his side finished 7th but lost the Moors in the play-off eliminator stage at Damson Park.

ONE TO WATCH

SCOTT HIGH

The midfielder has recently extended his stay with FC Halifax Town until the end of the 2024/25 season after initially joining the Shaymen on loan from Huddersfield Town.

High has settled into life at the Shay well, becoming well regarding amongst Halifax supporters and has also formed a midfield partnership with Jack Evans.

The midfielder has played for the likes of Concord Rangers, Dundalk, Rotherham United, Shrewsbury and Ross County whilst also making 60 appearances in the Championship for the Millers and Terriers.

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

2-2

Watch highlights from our last match against FC Halifax Town which saw Solihull win 1-0 thanks to Jordan Tunnicliffe’s first goal for the club.

LAST TIME OUT

Jordan Tunnicliffe opened his account in the yellow and blue, as Solihull Moors win 0-1 against FC Halifax Town in the Vanarama National League.

The Moors took the lead with Jordan Tunnicliffe scoring his first goal for the club. A free-kick was sent towards the far-post and won in the air by Olly Tipton, who headed the ball towards the centre of the box.

SATURDAY 26 AUG 2024

NATIONAL LEAGUE

FCHALIFAXTOWN 0

1 SOLIHULL MOORS

STARTING XI

Walker

Tunnicliffe

Whitmore

Tipton

Newton

Bowen

Osborne

Warburton

Bostock

Gale

Stevens

SUBS

Flahavan, Clarke, Pinnington, Labadie, Stevenson, Ryley, Wilkinson

In the fourth minute of stoppage time, James Clarke was shown a straight red card after an altercation with Frankie Sinfield.

In the final minute of the game, Sinfield had the ball rolled into him on the edge of the box, but the striker hit the ball over the bar as the game ended 0-1 to the Moors.

Tunnicliffe met the pass and headed across Sam Johnson’s goal to make it 0-1.

FIRST MOORS GOAL FOR TUNNI

MATCH ACTION

SAT 18 JANUARY 2025

NATIONAL LEAGUE

BRAINTREE 1

0 SOLIHULL MOORS

STARTING XI

Barrett

Clarke

Newton

Osborne

Warburton

Whitmore

Stevens

Bowen

Oakley

Bostock

Holman

SUBS

Walker, Morrison, Stevenson, Bruck, Corns, Tipton, Francis-Burrell

Our first away-day of 2025 ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat against Braintree Town, but the Moors remain in the play-off positions.

In the 16th minute, Braintree took the lead with Matthew Robinson opening the scoring. Jacob Pinnington’s low cross was only cleared to the edge of the box, with Robinson striking past Barrett to make it 1-0.

On 42 minutes, Jack Stevens had the best chance for the Moors as he played a one-two with Matty Warburton before curling a shot towards goal. But the ball curled just wide of the post.

On 73 minutes, Joe Newton sent a low cross towards Stevens in the centre of the goal and he passed the ball into Bradley Stevenson to shoot first-time towards goal. However, Louie Annesley was in the right place to block the shot and defect it out for a corner.

Unlocking the power of pitches

The Football Foundation is the Premier League, The FA and the Government’s charity. We award grants and work with partners to deliver outstanding grassroots football facilities across England.

S earch Football Foundation to find out more

2 KIDDERMINSTERHARRIERS

SOLIHULLMOORSELITE 0

In a highly competitive match, Solihull Moors Elite Academy (First Years) narrowly lost to Kidderminster Harriers, a team of third years.

The game was a true top-of-the-table clash, with only goal difference separating the two sides.

Despite playing on a challenging pitch, this was one of Moors’ best performances with the ball. The team displayed bravery in building up play and demonstrated impressive composure, working through the lines with precise passing. Richard Stearman’s side dominated possession for large stretches of the match, showcasing maturity beyond their years

The game took a dramatic turn shortly after halftime when Kidderminster were reduced to 10 men following an off-the-ball incident. However, this presented a new challenge as they adapted by sitting deep and defending resolutely.

Out of possession, the team’s tactical discipline was outstanding. They executed the game plan developed with Mike Fowler during the training session the day before, forcing Kidderminster to abandon their usual style of playing out from the back and resort to long balls. The team stood up admirably to the physicality of facing an older, more experienced side

Kidderminster’s first goal came midway through the first half in a scrappy, pinball-like sequence in the Solihull box, which fell kindly to one of their players completely against the run of play.

Their second goal came in the final moments, as Moors pushed everyone forward, including the goalkeeper, for a corner A quick counterattack into an empty net sealed the result.

Despite the 2-0 loss, this was one of Solihull’s most complete performances of the season. The players should be proud of their effort, courage, and ability to compete at such a high level against an older and more experienced opposition.

BARNSLEY

SOLIHULLMOORS

Last Sunday saw Solihull Moors Women defeated by Barnsley at Olympic Legacy Park.

Following last week’s postponement, both teams started out positively looking to make their mark on the game.

However, it wasn’t long before an opportunity opened up for a solid Barnsley side, which was superbly blocked by Zoe Millington.

Moors came close as the half went on, with a long-range drive from Lexi Blaxland falling to the hands of Barnsley’s #1.

Both sides created chances as the half drew to a close, but the score remained level at half-time.

The game opened up as the second half remained scoreless with both teams continuing to drive and press to take the lead.

However, it was Barnsley who broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute with their #9, Laura Bartup, slotting the ball past Millington.

A corner given to Moors was fired into the box and tapped away by Barnsley, falling to the feet of Emily Tomlins who shot it towards the goal but was launched into the air by the Reds defence.

After an even contest and despite the fantastic efforts of everyone, Joe Kirkland’s side left beaten in Barnsley.

Solihull Summer Fest Founder Brings “The Greatest Show” to Life with 200 Ticket Donations to Local Families.

This summer, the magic of the movies will come alive for 200 local families, thanks to Solihull Summer Fest founder Ian Rogers. Partnering with the Solihull Moors Foundation, Ian has donated tickets to a special “Greatest Showman” cinema event, creating opportunities for the community to enjoy an unforgettable experience.

“Solihull is my home, and giving back to this incredible community is something I’m deeply passionate about,” Ian shared. “The work that the Solihull Moors Foundation does is inspiring, and I hope these tickets provide families with a magical experience this July.”

The donation was announced during the Foundation’s Christmas Meal at The Regency Hotel, attended by Solihull Moors owner Darryl Eales, former professional footballer Dele Adebola, and Joe Butler of the Solihull Moors Foundation. A commemorative photo captured the moment, showcasing the spirit of collaboration and giving.

Joe Butler of the Solihull Moors Foundation added, “Ian’s generosity means the world to the families we support. This event will create lasting memories for the community and shows the power of partnership.”

SOLIHULLMOORS COMMERCIAl

TODAY’S SPONSORS

Solihull Moors are pleased to welcome Ticketco as our Match Sponsors on Saturday when we welcome Halifax Town to Damson Park

TicketCo are the club’s official ticket partners and offer the easiest way for ticketing managers and their organisations to manage everything to do with events – including payments, sales, marketing, distribution, and access control

Ticketco was formed in Norway back in 2013 and With honest, engaged and innovative as their core values, and a true Scandinavian business culture as the base, their vision is to transform the ticketing industry by becoming a digital ticketing assistant, where everything you need is just one click away.

You can find out more here: https://start ticketco events/en/about-us

We are equally delighted to welcome Green Power as Matchball Sponsors.

Green Power are an independent, family run plant hire business based in Sutton Coldfield in the heart of The West Midlands. Green Power are locally recognised, but strive to reach customers nationally from the construction industry and beyond. They are a fast paced and continually evolving operation which prides itself on exceeding customer expectations every time Green Power are dedicated to delivering the best possible service at the most responsible rates, whilst aiming to exceed and enhance customers expectations

You can find out more about them here: https://www.greenpower-plant.co.uk/about/

MATCHDAY HOSPITALITY

The prestigious Jerroms Vice-Presidents Suite, located within the newly refurbished Damson Homes stand, has recently undergone a rather extensive makeover.

Distinguished guests have access to a private balcony where they will enjoy the game in premium seating on the halfway line.

The suite remains a first-class dining affair offering a high-quality three-course meal courtesy of The Forest Hotel

Guests will be greeted by our maître d' who will be at your service during your whole experience with us.

You will enjoy the company of the chairman and home & away directors. Bar and table service is available throughout your time with us serving a selection of premium wines, beers, spirits, and soft drinks.

Guests are encouraged to wear smart casual attire (no football shirts).

The match-by-match JVPS hospitality price will range from £75-£125 + VAT