Sunday 23rd June 2013 sees Underhill host a charity game to mark World Refugee Day where an Arsenal Legends XI managed by double Olympic gold medallist Mo Farah face a World Refugee XI managed by Fabrice Muamba.
Tickets are just £3 for adults and under 12's go free with all profits donated directly to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Charity. Tickets are currently available at The Barnet FC Box Office but at present you can also pay at the turnstile on the day.
Kick off is at 4pm but the gates open at 2pm so it's a real chance to meet some stars, donate to a worthwhile charity and see Underhill for one of the last times with The Bee's impending move to The Hive next season.
Go to the barnetfc website for more details.
Thursday, 30 May 2013
THE THURSDAY CLUB #3 - CIVIL SERVICE FC
"Forest of Leytonstone" who went on to become "Wanderers" were also one of the eleven but folded in 1887. They have recently been reformed in 2009 and since 2011 play in the Surrey South-East Combination. They finished in second place in the Junior Division Four in 2012/13 behind Norton and ahead of Cheam Village Warriors 'A'.
Civil Service FC competed in the first FA Cup competition and also provided the two umpires for the first final.
They were founder members of the Isthmian League in 1905 but left to join the Southern Amateur League (SAL) in 1907. They re-joined the Isthmian ranks after the first world war and stayed until 1929 when they re-joined the SAL where they have been members ever since. They were last crowned champions of the top division in season 1970/71
Last season the club's first XI finished in seventh place (of 11 teams) in the SAL Senior Division One playing against Nottsborough, Winchmore Hill, Old Wilsonians, Old Owens, West Wickham, Old Salesians, Alleyn Old Boys, Old Parkonians, East Barnet Old Grammarians and Broomfield.
The club's home is The King's House Sports Ground which is on the North side of the River Thames in Chiswick.
Their website can be found here
Wednesday, 29 May 2013
A VERY QUICK WORD WITH - THE REFEREE
Here The Cold End asks a former non-league referee "Is being a referee getting harder or easier?"
Our game needs more referees so if you think you got what it takes please visit THE FA link here where you can find out more information and book a course in your local area.
Refereeing is getting much harder in this day and age. There is much more pressure put on the referee if he/she wishes to advance to a higher level. In the days when I officiated, any incident was classed as "is it a caution or not?" and that "was in the opinion of the referee". Nowadays, many cautions are mandatory and clubs expect referees to caution, although many do not like it when they do! Common sense which we used to call Law 18, has now gone out of the window.
However there is much more coaching and mentoring of referees which does help them in progressing to the next level. The major thing lacking with refereeing in my opinion is lack of man management skills. At the end of the day, a referee needs to manage the players and the benches but some find it difficult because they are completely lacking in life skills and cannot talk to people. I believe that this is a life skill which you cannot really teach anyone, but hopefully guide them in the right direction. What you also need to remember is that many players sometimes think nothing of cheating, even if it is over a throw in. The game has made the players like it, especially when they are being paid, even at non league level. I was involved as a secretary of a senior non league club and often players were more concerned in picking up their money, rather than putting a decent shift in on the field of play.
The Respect campaign, although I was a bit of a non believer when it first started, is slowly beginning to have the desired effect, particularly at non league level. Once all the clubs start singing from the same song sheet then it will get better. I'm also a great believer in that discipline starts on the bench/dugout. If they are unruly and abusive, then so will the players. Educating bench staff regarding behaviour is a must. Players can improve the game at non league level by embracing the Respect Campaign.
I also believe that it is not what referee's say, but how they say it. When I lecture and teach referees of all levels I always point this out to them. However I cannot say I agree with some of the language used by players and bench staff, as I firmly believe that it is indicative of the society we live in.
Tuesday, 28 May 2013
A QUICK WORD WITH....ION VINTILA
Tell us about the history of FC Romania?
The team was formed in 2006 around a group of friends with the objective of attracting players from the many communities around London - not just players from the Romanian community. In 2006-2007 we competed in and won the London football league (see below for details). In 2008 we joined the Essex Business Houses League Division Two with the long term aim to gain promotion and move up to the semi-professional leagues.
In 2010- 2011 we moved to the Middlesex County Football League Division One and finished second gaining promotion to the Premier Division. In 2011 - 2012 we finished runners -up in the Premier Division and we won Middlesex Senior County League Open Cup when we beat Brentham 3-1 in the final. In 2011 we were awarded from The Football Association as a Charter Standard Adult Club.
Last season we were honoured to be accepted into The FA Vase and we played Tring Athletic in the Preliminary Round winning 3-1. In the next round we unfortunately lost against Hoddesdon Town. We also moved to ground-share at Cheshunt FC and we finished runners-up in the league once again which allowed us to apply for promotion to the Essex Senior League.
Where do you see FC Romania in five years time?
We hope to have gained promotion to the Ryman League and to be playing in The FA Cup.
Are there any players in your squad who have played at a higher level in England, Romania or other countries?
All players in the team have played in the lower levels of football in Romania, Turkey, Spain or Bulgaria.
Are there any young players in your squad who could make it at a higher level?
I believe we have four or five young players who are capable of developing into good players at Step 1 or 2 of the non-league pyramid.
What would you see as a success next season in the Essex Senior League?
Our objective in the first year is to finish the season in the top half of the league table.
What was the best experience playing in the Middlesex Senior League?
It was a great experience, the team gained much in terms of sport and organisation in the three years spent in the League.
What can teams in the Essex Senior league expect from FC Romania next season?
We hope to be a competitive opponent at this level. We want to represent the league well in the FA Vase. We hope to prove to those who have decided that our team be part of this league that they made a very good decision
FROM 'BEATING CHASTARDS' TO THE ESSEX SENIOR LEAGUE IN UNDER A DECADE
Saturday 4th November 2006 saw FC Romania play their first competitive game against a team called 'Beating Chastards' in the London Football Saturday Premier where they won 12-2 and went on to lose just one of their fourteen league games. The defeat came against 'SML United' by a score of 4-1 on Saturday 3rd February 2007 which is an amazing result seeing as they had beaten them TWENTY SIX-NIL on Saturday 16th December 2006.
Last season as Ion states saw FC Romania's maiden outing in the FA Vase where they beat Spartan Premier Division Tring Athletic 3-1 with their top scorer Sergiu Pitaru bagging a hat-trick. Pitaru scored 30+ goals last season in league and cup games and 20+ the previous season. He is definitely a player to watch out for in the Essex Senior scoring charts!
You can visit FC Romania's website here
FC ROMANIA'S LEAGUE RECORD SINCE FORMATION IN 2006
| SEASON | LEAGUE | POSN | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | PTS |
| 06/07 | LONDON FOOTBALL SATURDAY PM PREMIER | 1/8 | 14 | 13 | 0 | 1 | 73 | 19 | +54 | 49 |
| 07/08 | LONDON FOOTBALL SUNDAY AM PREMIER | 3/9 | 16 | 11 | 3 | 2 | 63 | 24 | +39 | 33 |
| 08/09 | ESSEX BUSINESS HOUSES DIVISION TWO | 6/7 | 18 | 6 | 3 | 9 | 30 | 46 | -16 | 21 |
| 09/10 | ESSEX BUSINESS HOUSES DIVISION TWO | 4/9 | 15* | 7 | 2 | 6 | 53 | 35 | +18 | 23 |
| 10/11 | MIDDLESEX COUNTY LEAGUE DIVISION ONE (C&E) | 2/11 | 20 | 14 | 2 | 4 | 64 | 35 | +29 | 44 |
| 11/12 | MIDDLESEX COUNTY LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION | 2/16 | 30 | 23 | 1 | 6 | 94 | 39 | +55 | 70 |
| 12/13 | MIDDLESEX COUNTY LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION | 2/16 | 30 | 19 | 4 | 7 | 97 | 48 | +49 | 61 |
Friday, 24 May 2013
PLAYERS LEAVE NEW LODGE AND MAIN SIGNING FOR THE MEAD
SWAINE AND MAY MOVE ON
Billericay Town FC have announced that both central-defender Rob Swaine and forward Jay May have left New Lodge. Swaine has joined Evo Stik Southern Premier League side Hemel Hempstead Town whilst May has moved to Conference South side Bromley. Ex Enfield Town centre-back Chris Wild who has been released by the club.
Staying and committed for next season's Ryman Premier campaign are Captain Glenn Poole, Sam Lechmere, Dave Collis, Junior Luke and Paul Semakula.
MAIN SIGNS FOR THE MEAD
Experienced and prolific striker Jon Main has signed for newly promoted side Thamesmead Town. The ex AFC Wimbledon, Tonbridge Angels and Dartford striker played twenty-eight times (scoring six) for Conference South Champions Welling United last season.
Billericay Town FC have announced that both central-defender Rob Swaine and forward Jay May have left New Lodge. Swaine has joined Evo Stik Southern Premier League side Hemel Hempstead Town whilst May has moved to Conference South side Bromley. Ex Enfield Town centre-back Chris Wild who has been released by the club.
Staying and committed for next season's Ryman Premier campaign are Captain Glenn Poole, Sam Lechmere, Dave Collis, Junior Luke and Paul Semakula.
MAIN SIGNS FOR THE MEAD
Experienced and prolific striker Jon Main has signed for newly promoted side Thamesmead Town. The ex AFC Wimbledon, Tonbridge Angels and Dartford striker played twenty-eight times (scoring six) for Conference South Champions Welling United last season.
RYMAN PREMIER PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY GAMES
The following is a list of the pre-season games arranged so far for the Ryman Premier Division clubs. I'll update it throughout the Summer. Every year it seems as if pre-season gets earlier and earlier! There are some games scheduled on Saturday 29th June with newly promoted League One side Gillingham sending teams to play both Ryman Division One (South) side Faversham Town and Kent League Ashford United.
There are some good fixtures amongst the list with Chelsea sending a side to both Hendon and Wealdstone. Queens Park Rangers and Crystal Palace both send sides to Hampton and Richmond Borough with Dagenham and Redbridge going to Billericay Town. Huddersfield United send an under 21 side to Dulwich Hamlet as part of the deal that saw Hamlet striker Daniel Carr move to the Championship side.
Cray Wanderers travel to face Cray Valley PM on Tuesday 30th July in a 'Cray Derby'. Both clubs originate from the St Paul's Cray area with The Wands currently ground sharing at nearby Bromley in the hope of building a new ground in their spiritual home soon. The Millers have played at The Badgers Sports Ground in Eltham, SE9 since the early 1980's.
There are some good fixtures amongst the list with Chelsea sending a side to both Hendon and Wealdstone. Queens Park Rangers and Crystal Palace both send sides to Hampton and Richmond Borough with Dagenham and Redbridge going to Billericay Town. Huddersfield United send an under 21 side to Dulwich Hamlet as part of the deal that saw Hamlet striker Daniel Carr move to the Championship side.
Cray Wanderers travel to face Cray Valley PM on Tuesday 30th July in a 'Cray Derby'. Both clubs originate from the St Paul's Cray area with The Wands currently ground sharing at nearby Bromley in the hope of building a new ground in their spiritual home soon. The Millers have played at The Badgers Sports Ground in Eltham, SE9 since the early 1980's.
TheColdEnd must make a big mention that Grays Athletic have a charity game scheduled for Saturday 20th July when they play a "3rd Para XI" in aid for Help the Heroes which given the awful events in Woolwich this week will be a chance for the local non-league fans to show their support for such a worthwhile and amazing charity.
AFC HORNCHURCH no fixtures announced at present BILLERICAY TOWN Sat 6 July - Witham Town Wed 10 July - Great Wakering Rovers Sat 13 July - BTFC v BTFC SUPPORTERS V ROMFORD Tue 16 July - Brentwood Town Wed 24 July - DAGENHAM AND REDBRIDGE Tue 30 July - BISHOPS STORTFORD Sat 3 Aug - Concord Rangers BOGNOR REGIS TOWN Sat 13 July - PORTSMOUTH BURY TOWN no fixtures announced at present CANVEY ISLAND no fixtures announced at present CRAY WANDERERS Sat 20 July - Phoenix Sports Tue 30 July - Cray Valley PM Sat 3 Aug - Merstham DULWICH HAMLET Tue 23 July - Huddersfield Town U21 (Home) EAST THURROCK UNITED no fixtures announced at present ENFIELD TOWN Sat 13 July - ASTON VILLA XI Tue 16 July - Haringey Borough. Tue 23 July - Potters Bar Sat 27 July - YB SK BEVEREN Tue 30 July - Cheshunt GRAYS ATHLETIC Sat 13 July - Brigg Town Sat 20 July - 3rd PARA XI Help The Heroes charity match Sat 27 July - Concord Rangers Tue 30 July - Witham Town Sat 3 Aug - Tilbury Stan Veness Memorial Trophy Tue 6 Aug - Waltham Abbey HAMPTON AND RICHMOND BOROUGH Tue 2 July - Spelthorne Sports - Trailists Match Fri 12 July - QPR XI Tue 16 July - Camberley Town Tue 23 July - Windsor Thu 25 July - Harefield United Tue 30 July - Hanworth Villa Sat 3 Aug - Ascot United Tue 6 Aug - CRYSTAL PALACE XI HARROW BOROUGH no fixtures announced at present HENDON Sat 13 July - Tring Athletic Tue 16 July - Maidenhead United @ The Hive Sat 20 July - Cheshunt Sat 27 July - Marlow Tue 30 July - Burnham Sat 3 Aug - Northwood Tue 6 Aug - CHELSEA U21 KINGSTONIAN no fixtures announced at present LEISTON Sat 27 July - BRAINTREE TOWN LEWES no fixtures announced at present LOWESTOFT TOWN Tue 16 July - DEREHAM TOWN Sat 3 Aug- BRAINTREE TOWN MAIDSTONE UNITED Sat 13 July - CHARLTON ATHLETIC XI MARGATE Sat 20th July - WELLING UNITED Fri 26th July - RAMSGATE Fri 2nd Aug - Ramsgate MET POLICE no fixtures announced at present THAMESMEAD TOWN no fixtures announced at present THURROCK no fixtures announced at present WEALDSTONE Sat 20 July - Hitchin Town Sat 27 July - HAYES & YEADING Tues 30 July - Uxbridge Sat 3 Aug - CHELSEA XI Mon 5 Aug - Hemel Hempstead Town WINGATE AND FINCHLEY no fixtures announced at present
Thursday, 23 May 2013
THE THURSDAY CLUB #2 - AFC NUFC OILERS
AFC NUFC OILERS
As their website states "AFC NUFC OILERS are newly affiliated (formed in 2012) team formed by Nottingham University Alumni with the collective aspiration of continuing to play at a high standard of competitive, respectful football in London"
The team is made up of a dedicated group of recent Nottingham Graduates aged between 21 to 25 and are looking to rekindle the success of the University team.
In their first competitive season they have topped the West End (London) AFA Saturday - Division One winning sixteen and losing just two of their eighteen league games scoring ninety goal in the process. They finished four points ahead of BUOB and also faced teams such as Spaniards, Primrose Hill 'A' and Racing Chiswick Legends.
Their results have included 9-1, 10-1 and 12-0 victories. They play most of their home games in Regents Park but have also played at The Dukes Meadow Sports Ground and at Bacons College in Rotherhithe.
Their website can be found here.
Wednesday, 22 May 2013
NON-LEAGUE DAY 2013 - SATURDAY 7th SEPTEMBER
The date has been set for non-league day 2013 being Saturday 7th September. "Non-League Day" is a non-profit, volunteer run initiative designed to raise awareness of semi-professional and amateur football. Click here for more details.
NEW ERA AT REDBRIDGE FC
Ryman Division One (North) club Redbridge FC have today announced that the club will be led by new investors under a new chairman Imran Merchant formerly of Essex Senior League side London Bari FC.
The Motormen's former chairman Jim Chapman will remain on the club's general committee. The management team of Steve Portway and Del Robinson have left the club after the amazing achievement of keeping them up in the division on a reported zero budget last season. They will now be replaced by Ricky Eaton (who the cold end spoke to last week) who also moves across from London Bari.
The Motormen's former chairman Jim Chapman will remain on the club's general committee. The management team of Steve Portway and Del Robinson have left the club after the amazing achievement of keeping them up in the division on a reported zero budget last season. They will now be replaced by Ricky Eaton (who the cold end spoke to last week) who also moves across from London Bari.
STILL SOME LOCAL FOOTBALL TO BE PLAYED THIS WEEK
IT'S NOT ALL ABOUT THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL IN THE LONDON AREA THIS SATURDAY
On the face of it for people not in the know it appears as though Wadham Lodge's surprise defeat at bottom side Benfleet yesterday evening has all but mathematically ended their title aspirations but it hasn't....sort of.....it's all a little confusing! Thanks to the font of Essex football knowledge Dan Wilson @EssexFootie (he's well worth a follow on Twitter) for letting me know that the EOFL positions are not worked out on a goal difference but on the team's respective head-2-head records (wins, draws and defeats) and if these are level it then goes to goals scored.
So therefore, Wadham still need at least a point to move up into the second promotion place ahead of Newbury Forest as they lost both games to them.
When Wadham travelled to Swifts on Saturday 1st December they lost 2-1 so they will need to win on Saturday to have any chance of the title as after the head-2-heads it goes to total goal scored. When I say "any chance" on paper it's no chance at all as Swifts have scored 69 with Wadham needing to win by 29 goals as they currently have only scored 41!
For bottom side Benfleet it was only their second win in thirteen league games in this calendar year of 2013. They now travel to Runwell Hospital on Saturday in what has become an exciting "relegation play off" match as 11th plays 12th place in the final game of the season.
With the head-2-head this is where it get's confusing here too?
1) A win for either side would see the other relegated along with Ongar Town.
or
2) A draw would put them both level on 23 points with Galleywood.
* Galleywood's results against Runwell were two wins and Benfleet a win and a draw which means they are safe.
* Runwell beat Benfleet when they met on Saturday 29th September 2012 so that would mean Benfleet go down. So putting it simply Benfleet must win but Runwell can draw!
3) Ongar Town are confirmed as relegated as either Benfleet or Runwell will move above them with the game still to be played.
PROKIT UK EOFL DIVISION ONE - CURRENT TABLE
| POS | TEAM | P | W | D | L | GD | PTS |
| 1. | BISHOPS STORTFORD SWIFTS | 21 | 15 | 0 | 6 | +30 | 45 |
| 2. | NEWBURY FOREST | 22 | 13 | 4 | 5 | +31 | 42 |
| 3. | WADHAM LODGE | 21 | 13 | 3 | 5 | +16 | 42 |
| - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 9. | GALLEYWOOD | 22 | 5 | 6 | 11 | -14 | 23 |
| 10. | ONGAR TOWN | 22 | 7 | 1 | 14 | -13 | 22 |
| 11. | RUNWELL HOSPITAL | 21 | 6 | 4 | 11 | -14 | 22 |
| 12. | BENFLEET | 21 | 6 | 4 | 11 | -19 | 22 |
 |
| Above - Runwell face Benfleet in a match which will see one of the team's relegated. |
In the Premier Division Frenford Senior retain the title with one game left to play after losing only one of twenty-five games. They have a better head-2-head record over Kelvedon (w 0-1 away and drew 0-0 at home).
The only other fixture sees Southminster St Leonards host Rayleigh Town. Southminster have impressively finished in a highly respectable 3rd place after promotion from Division One last season. Rayleigh Town are eight points behind in fourth place.
PROKIT UK EOFL PREMIER DIVISION CURRENT TABLE - TOP TWO ONLY
| POS | TEAM | P | W | D | L | GD | PTS |
| 1. | FRENFORD SENIOR | 26 | 18 | 6 | 1 | +37 | 60* |
| 2. | KELVEDON HATCH | 26 | 19 | 3 | 4 | +45 | 60 |
RESERVE DIVISION ONE
In Reserve Division One the final game sees Debden Sports Res host Harold Wood Athletic Res where an away win would crown Athletic champions.
SATURDAY'S LOCAL FOOTBALL FIXTURES
PRO-KIT ESSEX OLYMPIAN LEAGUE
PREMIER DIVISION
FRENFORD SENIOR v HANNAKINS FARM
SOUTHMINSTER ST LEONARDS v RAYLEIGH TOWN
SENIOR DIVISION ONE
RUNWELL HOSPITAL v BENFLEET
WADHAM LODGE v BISHOPS STORTFORD SWIFTS
SENIOR DIVISION THREE
BASILDON TOWN v STAMBRIDGE UNITED
CHINGFORD ATHLETC v TOBY
RESERVE DIVISION ONE
DEBDEN SPORTS RES v HAROLD WOOD ATHLETIC RES
RESERVE DIVISION TWO
RUNWELL HOSPITAL RES v GALLEYWOOD RES
SOUTHMINSTER ST LEONARDS RES v WHITE ENSIGN RES *
* This game kicks off at 4.15pm after the first team game which kicks off at 2.30pm. A chance to squeeze in two games for all you ground-hoppers out there.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY LEAGUE
PREMIER DIVISION
HILLINGDON v NORTH KENSINGTON
KODAK (HARROW) v INTERWOOD
SLOANE v FC ASSYRIA
DIVISION ONE (CENTRAL AND EAST)
ST LAWRENCE V SUPREME ATHLETIC
DIVISION ONE (WEST)
WEST LONDON SARACENS v KENSINGTON DRAGONS
RESERVE DIVISION
HILLINGDON RES V BROADFIELDS UNITED RES*
* This game kicks off at 1pm with the first team game at 3pm. Another chance of a double game.
Monday, 20 May 2013
A LITTLE BIT OF NEWS...
GIDDINGS REPLACES BOATENG AT GOLDSDOWN ROAD
Gordon Boateng has left after a year in charge at Enfield 1893 FC where they finished in ninth position winning fourteen of thirty-six league games. Taking over at Goldsdown Road is Luke Giddings who has just had an impressive debut season in charge of Eton Manor where they finished in fifth place. The Cold End spoke to Luke on his appointment at Manor last season and you can read that article here.
Bush Hill Rangers, whom also play at Goldsdown Road, are also on the look out for a new manager after Tolga Huseyin departed after three years in charge.
TOWN'S PRE-SEASON FRIENDLIES TAKING SHAPE
Enfield Town have a number of pre-season friendly games arranged already with the pick at the moment being a Reserve/Development side from Premier League Aston Villa visiting on Saturday 13th July along with a home game against YB SK Beveren on Saturday 27th July. The Belgium side were formed with the help of Supporters Direct in 2011 following the demise of former League Champions (* 1979 and 1984) KSK Beveren in 2010 and subsequent merger with KV Red Star Waasland to become KV Red Star Waasland-Beveren. Fans of the original Beveren club became disenchanted and re-formed starting the 2010/11 season at the lowest level in the Fourth Provincial League. As their website states 'LET'S RESTART OUR FOOTBALL HISTORY'.
Enfield Town pre-season friendly list at present
Saturday 13th July - ASTON VILLA
Tuesday 16th July - Haringey Borough
Tuesday 23th July - Potters Bar Town
Saturday 27th July - YB SK BEVEREN
Tuesday 30th July - Cheshunt
HEALE IS NEW BOSS AT CANVEY ISLAND
It was a while ago but Steve Tilson has left Canvey after only one season in charge so when Town face the Islander's next season they will have a new manager in place who is popular striker Danny Heale who spent most of last season on a dual playing registration with Great Wakering Rovers. He has also played for Concord Rangers (he scored their third goal in the 2010 Ryman North play-off final versus Enfield Town), AFC Hornchurch and Dartford.
CHAPELL AND O'LEARY LEAVE THE STONES
Two of Wealdstone's stalwart players have joined St Albans City. Defender Lee Chapell and Midfielder Chris O'Leary have both swapped the Ryman Premier for the Evo-Stic Southern Premier and joined the Saint's side now jointly managed by ex Wealdstone player James Gray. Chappell made over 350 appearance for The Stones. The Saints have made some impressive signings already including centre-back Ben Martin (who played 38 times for Blue Square South Champion's Welling United last season) and the ultra experienced 42 year old goal-keeper Paul Bastock, who returns to the club he has played over 250 times for. The Cold End thinks they will be considered one of the favourites for the league title in 2013/14.
Meanwhile, The pick of The Stones pre-season friendly games so far comes on Saturday 3rd August when a Chelsea XI visit Grosvenor Vale.
Gordon Boateng has left after a year in charge at Enfield 1893 FC where they finished in ninth position winning fourteen of thirty-six league games. Taking over at Goldsdown Road is Luke Giddings who has just had an impressive debut season in charge of Eton Manor where they finished in fifth place. The Cold End spoke to Luke on his appointment at Manor last season and you can read that article here.
Bush Hill Rangers, whom also play at Goldsdown Road, are also on the look out for a new manager after Tolga Huseyin departed after three years in charge.
TOWN'S PRE-SEASON FRIENDLIES TAKING SHAPE
Enfield Town have a number of pre-season friendly games arranged already with the pick at the moment being a Reserve/Development side from Premier League Aston Villa visiting on Saturday 13th July along with a home game against YB SK Beveren on Saturday 27th July. The Belgium side were formed with the help of Supporters Direct in 2011 following the demise of former League Champions (* 1979 and 1984) KSK Beveren in 2010 and subsequent merger with KV Red Star Waasland to become KV Red Star Waasland-Beveren. Fans of the original Beveren club became disenchanted and re-formed starting the 2010/11 season at the lowest level in the Fourth Provincial League. As their website states 'LET'S RESTART OUR FOOTBALL HISTORY'.
Enfield Town pre-season friendly list at present
Saturday 13th July - ASTON VILLA
Tuesday 16th July - Haringey Borough
Tuesday 23th July - Potters Bar Town
Saturday 27th July - YB SK BEVEREN
Tuesday 30th July - Cheshunt
HEALE IS NEW BOSS AT CANVEY ISLAND
It was a while ago but Steve Tilson has left Canvey after only one season in charge so when Town face the Islander's next season they will have a new manager in place who is popular striker Danny Heale who spent most of last season on a dual playing registration with Great Wakering Rovers. He has also played for Concord Rangers (he scored their third goal in the 2010 Ryman North play-off final versus Enfield Town), AFC Hornchurch and Dartford.
CHAPELL AND O'LEARY LEAVE THE STONES
Two of Wealdstone's stalwart players have joined St Albans City. Defender Lee Chapell and Midfielder Chris O'Leary have both swapped the Ryman Premier for the Evo-Stic Southern Premier and joined the Saint's side now jointly managed by ex Wealdstone player James Gray. Chappell made over 350 appearance for The Stones. The Saints have made some impressive signings already including centre-back Ben Martin (who played 38 times for Blue Square South Champion's Welling United last season) and the ultra experienced 42 year old goal-keeper Paul Bastock, who returns to the club he has played over 250 times for. The Cold End thinks they will be considered one of the favourites for the league title in 2013/14.
Meanwhile, The pick of The Stones pre-season friendly games so far comes on Saturday 3rd August when a Chelsea XI visit Grosvenor Vale.
Saturday, 18 May 2013
A QUICK WORD WITH...... RICKY EATON
London Bari joined the Essex Senior League in 2012 and have just completed their first full season at Step five of non-league football where they finished tenth of eighteen teams playing their home games at Clapton FC's The Old Spotted Dog Stadium. Bari also reached the semi-finals of both The Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy (lost to Enfield 1893) and the League Cup (lost to Bowers and Pitsea).
The Cold End had a quick word with their manager Ricky Eaton regarding their season and about the formation of the club. Thanks to Ricky for taking part. The Cold End will hopefully bring you another local football interview soon.
Not much has been written about the formation of London Bari. How did it all come together? Where does the name come from?
How has your first season in the Essex Senior League gone?
Best result? 5-0 away to Sawbridgeworth Town FC
Worst result? 1-3 home defeats to Takeley and Enfield 1893 + 3-1 defeat away to London APSA
Best opposing player? Reece Dobson (Takeley FC)
The Cold End had a quick word with their manager Ricky Eaton regarding their season and about the formation of the club. Thanks to Ricky for taking part. The Cold End will hopefully bring you another local football interview soon.
Not much has been written about the formation of London Bari. How did it all come together? Where does the name come from?
Bari's name come from the Italian side called AS Bari from back in the 90's when David Platt played for them in Serie A. One of our committee members was a big fan of them and when it came to naming the Sunday side he insisted on being called Bari FC.
Bari FC tried to get into semi-pro football numerous times but failed at the first hurdle, they joined The Essex Sunday Corinthian Football League where I was a rival club manager and founder of Greengate FC who were the current champions. I also managed Brampton Park of The Essex Business Houses League who were also champions of their top division. I contacted Bari and offered to do an application on behalf of the club to enter the Essex Senior League via The FA. I completed a very detailed structured report/application that I will not go into details about at the risk of being boring but the rest is history.
How has your first season in the Essex Senior League gone?
Very inconsistent in terms of results but we overcome some very difficult circumstances on and off the pitch to finish a respectable mid table finish and we reached the semi-final of both cup competitions we entered. We should of won both!
Best result? 5-0 away to Sawbridgeworth Town FC
Worst result? 1-3 home defeats to Takeley and Enfield 1893 + 3-1 defeat away to London APSA
Best opposing player? Reece Dobson (Takeley FC)
The Cold End note: Winger/Forward Dobson played against Enfield Town for Harlow Town in our Ryman North Days.
Best opposing team? Takeley
What are your aims for next season?
Best opposing team? Takeley
What are your aims for next season?
London Bari FC will look for a top six finish and hope for a good cup run - reaching a final would be a massive bonus.
The ESL has a good number of East London based teams now with Clapton, Sporting Bengal, Bethnal Green, Eton Manor (currently playing at Waltham Abbey but with roots firmly in the area) and Barking with Ilford joining for next season? Who would you consider Bari's rivals?
The ESL has a good number of East London based teams now with Clapton, Sporting Bengal, Bethnal Green, Eton Manor (currently playing at Waltham Abbey but with roots firmly in the area) and Barking with Ilford joining for next season? Who would you consider Bari's rivals?
London Bari have no main rivals from the club's point of view but it seemed nearly every team wanted to beat us more than others for sure. All at London Bari hope that this will not be the case for the coming season. London APSA built up the most local rival tag out of the many in the local area I suppose.
Any impressive up and coming player's at Bari to look out for?
Emmanuel Stevens is one to watch out for, a 19 year old with plenty to offer.
Describe Bari's style of football?
Describe Bari's style of football?
Short passing style that got adapted due to us not being able to implement it effectively on our home pitch. We adopted a direct style down the flanks due to not having a target man up front.
How would you improve the Essex Senior League?
How would you improve the Essex Senior League?
The league needs more exposure and advertisement. Maybe get ESL badges put on all kits. I will not comment on the running of the league as I have no valid right to after only being there for one season.
What Premier League Manager would your players most likely describe you as?
It would range from Wenger to Pulis. They both win nothing and one plays a direct style so maybe they're right. Got to laugh!!
Friday, 17 May 2013
STEP ONE TO FOUR PROVISIONAL LINE-UPS FOR 2013/14
The FA have today announced the provisional line-up for the Non-League pyramid in season 2013/14. Below are those league line-ups with Potters Bar Town shifted across from the Ryman North to Southern League Division One (Central) one of the moves of local interest.
The Scholars will still have many local(ish) games against Northwood, Royston Town and Barton Rovers to name a few teams. The key is teams highlighted in red are relegated, in green promoted and pink moved sideways/transferred divisions. It's only early days so I'm sure there will be some movement and changes prior to the start of the season.
STEP ONE
CONFERENCE NATIONAL
(24 TEAMS)
Aldershot Town (from League Two)
Alfreton Town
Barnet (from League Two)
Braintree Town
Cambridge United
Chester (from Conference North)
Dartford
FC Halifax Town (from Conference North)
Forest Green Rovers
Gateshead
Grimsby Town
Hereford United
Hyde
Kidderminster Harriers
Lincoln City
Luton Town
Macclesfield Town
Nuneaton Town
Salisbury City (from Conference South)
Southport
Tamworth
Welling United (from Conference South)
Woking
Wrexham
STEP TWO
CONFERENCE NORTH
(22 TEAMS)
AFC Telford United (from Conference Premier)
Altrincham
Barrow (from Conference Premier)
Boston United
Brackley Town
Bradford Park Avenue
Colwyn Bay
Gainsborough Trinity
Gloucester City
Guiseley
Hednesford Town (from Northern Premier League Premier Division)
Leamington (from Southern League Premier Division)
Harrogate Town
Histon
North Ferriby United (from Northern Premier League Premier Division)
Oxford City
Solihull Moors
Stalybridge Celtic
Stockport County (from Conference Premier)
Vauxhall Motors
Worcester City
Workington
CONFERENCE SOUTH
(22 TEAMS)
Basingstoke Town
Bath City
Bishops Stortford (from Conference North)
Boreham Wood
Bromley
Chelmsford City
Concord Rangers (from Ryman Premier Division)
Dorchester Town
Dover Athletic
Eastbourne Borough
Eastleigh
Ebbsfleet United (from Conference Premier)
Farnborough
Gosport Borough (from Southern League Premier Division)
Havant & Waterlooville
Hayes & Yeading United
Maidenhead United
Staines Town
Sutton United
Tonbridge Angels
Weston Super Mare
Whitehawk to be known Brigton City FC (from Ryman Premier Division)
STEP 3
ISTHMIAN LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION
(24 TEAMS)
AFC Hornchurch (from Conference South)
Billericay Town FC (from Conference South)
Bognor Regis Town
Bury Town
Canvey Island
Cray Wanderers
Dulwich Hamlet (from Ryman Division One South)
East Thurrock United
Enfield Town
Grays Athletic (from Ryman Division One North)
Hampton & Richmond Borough
Harrow Borough
Hendon
Kingstonian
Leiston
Lewes
Lowestoft Town
Maidstone United (from Ryman Division One South)
Margate
Metropolitan Police
Thamesmead Town (from Ryman Division One North)
Thurrock
Wealdstone
Wingate & Finchley
NORTHERN PREMIER LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION
(24 TEAMS)
AFC Fylde
Ashton United
Barwell (from Southern League Premier Division)
Blyth Spartans
Buxton
Chorley
Droylsden (from Conference North)
FC United of Manchester
Frickley Athletic
Grantham Town
Ilkeston
Kings Lynn Town (from Northern Premier League Division One South)
Marine
Matlock Town
Nantwich Town
Rushall Olympic
Skelmersdale United (from Northern Premier League Division One North)
Stafford Rangers
Stamford (from Northern Premier League Division One South)
Stocksbridge Park Steels
Trafford (from Northern Premier League Division One North)
Whitby Town
Witton Albion
Worksop Town
SOUTHERN LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION
(24 TEAMS)
AFC Totton
Arlesey Town
Banbury United
Bashley
Bedford Town
Biggleswade Town (from Southern League Division One Central)
Bideford
Burnham (from Southern League Division One Central)
Cambridge City
Chesham United
Chippenham Town
Corby Town (from Conference North)
Frome Town
Hemel Hempstead Town
Hinckley United (from Conference North)
Hitchin Town
Hungerford Town (from Southern League Division One S&W)
Poole Town (from Southern League Division One S&W)
Redditch United
St Albans City
St Neots Town
Stourbridge
Truro City (from Conference South)
Weymouth
STEP 4
ISTHMIAN LEAGUE DIVISION 1 NORTH
(24 TEAMS)
AFC Sudbury
Aveley
Barkingside (from Essex Senior League)
Brentwood Town
Burnham Ramblers (from Essex Senior League)
Chatham Town
Cheshunt
Dereham Town (from Eastern Counties League)
Erith & Belvedere (from Kent League)
Harlow Town
Heybridge Swifts
Maldon & Tiptree
Needham Market
Redbridge
Romford
Sittingbourne (from Ryman Division One South)
Soham Town Rangers
Tilbury
VCD Athletic (from Kent League)
Waltham Abbey
Waltham Forest
Ware
Witham Town
Wroxham
ISTHMIAN LEAGUE DIVISION 1 SOUTH
(24 TEAMS)
Burgess Hill Town
Carshalton Athletic (from Ryman Premier Division)
Chipstead
Corinthian Casuals
Crawley Down Gatwick
Eastbourne Town
Faversham Town
Folkestone Invicta
Guernsey (from Combined Counties League Premier Division)
Hastings United (from Ryman Premier Division)
Herne Bay
Horsham
Hythe Town
Leatherhead
Merstham
Peacehaven & Telscombe (from Sussex County Football League Division One)
Ramsgate
Redhill (from Sussex County Football League Division One)
Three Bridges
Tooting & Mitcham United
Walton Casuals
Walton & Hersham
Whitstable Town
Worthing
NORTHERN PREMIER LEAGUE DIVISION 1 NORTH
(22 TEAMS)
Bamber Bridge
Burscough
Cammell Laird
Clitheroe
Curzon Ashton
Darlington 1883 (from Northern Football League Division One)
Farsley
Harrogate Railway Athletic
Kendal Town (from Northern Premier League Premier Division)
Lancaster City
Mossley
New Mills
Northwich Victoria (from Northern League Division South)
Ossett Albion
Ossett Town
Padiham (from North West Counties League Premier Division)
Prescott Cables
Radcliffe Borough
Ramsbottom United
Salford City
Wakefield
Warrington Town
NORTHERN PREMIER LEAGUE DIVISION 1 SOUTH
(22 TEAMS)
Bedworth Town (from Southern League Premier Division)
Belper Town
Brigg Town
Carlton Town
Chasetown
Coalville Town
Eastwood Town (from Northern Premier League Premier Division)
Goole (from Northern Premier Division One North)
Gresley
Halesowen Town
Kidsgrove Athletic
Leek Town
Lincoln United
Loughborough Dynamo
Market Drayton Town
Mickleover Sports
Newcastle Town
Rainworth Miners Welfare
Romulus
Scarborough Athletic (from Northern Counties East League Premier Division)
Sheffield
Sutton Coldfield Town
SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION 1 CENTRAL
(22 TEAMS)
AFC Hayes
Ashford Town (Mddx)
Aylesbury
Aylesbury United (from Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division)
Barton Rovers
Beaconsfield SYCOB
Chalfont St Peter
Chertsey Town
Daventry Town
Dunstable Town (from Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division)
Egham Town (from Combined Counties League Premier Division)
Kettering Town (from Southern League Premier Division)
Leighton Town
Marlow (from Hellenic League Premier Division)
North Greenford United
Northwood
Potters Bar Town (from Ryman Division One North)
Royston Town
Rugby Town
St Ives Town (from United Counties League Premier Division)
Slough Town
Uxbridge
SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION 1 SOUTH & WEST
(22 TEAMS)
Bishops Cleeve
Bridgwater Town
Cinderford Town
Cirencester Town
Clevedon Town
Didcot Town
Evesham United
Fleet Town (from Southern League Division One Central)
Godalming Town (from Southern League Division One Central)
Guildford City (from Southern League Division One Central)
Mangotsfield United
Merthyr Town
North Leigh
Paulton Rovers
Shortwood United
Stratford Town (from Midland Football Alliance)
Swindon Supermarine
Taunton Town
Thatcham Town (from Southern League Division One Central)
Tiverton Town
Wimborne Town
Yate Town
The Scholars will still have many local(ish) games against Northwood, Royston Town and Barton Rovers to name a few teams. The key is teams highlighted in red are relegated, in green promoted and pink moved sideways/transferred divisions. It's only early days so I'm sure there will be some movement and changes prior to the start of the season.
STEP ONE
CONFERENCE NATIONAL
(24 TEAMS)
Aldershot Town (from League Two)
Alfreton Town
Barnet (from League Two)
Braintree Town
Cambridge United
Chester (from Conference North)
Dartford
FC Halifax Town (from Conference North)
Forest Green Rovers
Gateshead
Grimsby Town
Hereford United
Hyde
Kidderminster Harriers
Lincoln City
Luton Town
Macclesfield Town
Nuneaton Town
Salisbury City (from Conference South)
Southport
Tamworth
Welling United (from Conference South)
Woking
Wrexham
STEP TWO
CONFERENCE NORTH
(22 TEAMS)
AFC Telford United (from Conference Premier)
Altrincham
Barrow (from Conference Premier)
Boston United
Brackley Town
Bradford Park Avenue
Colwyn Bay
Gainsborough Trinity
Gloucester City
Guiseley
Hednesford Town (from Northern Premier League Premier Division)
Leamington (from Southern League Premier Division)
Harrogate Town
Histon
North Ferriby United (from Northern Premier League Premier Division)
Oxford City
Solihull Moors
Stalybridge Celtic
Stockport County (from Conference Premier)
Vauxhall Motors
Worcester City
Workington
CONFERENCE SOUTH
(22 TEAMS)
Basingstoke Town
Bath City
Bishops Stortford (from Conference North)
Boreham Wood
Bromley
Chelmsford City
Concord Rangers (from Ryman Premier Division)
Dorchester Town
Dover Athletic
Eastbourne Borough
Eastleigh
Ebbsfleet United (from Conference Premier)
Farnborough
Gosport Borough (from Southern League Premier Division)
Havant & Waterlooville
Hayes & Yeading United
Maidenhead United
Staines Town
Sutton United
Tonbridge Angels
Weston Super Mare
Whitehawk to be known Brigton City FC (from Ryman Premier Division)
STEP 3
ISTHMIAN LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION
(24 TEAMS)
AFC Hornchurch (from Conference South)
Billericay Town FC (from Conference South)
Bognor Regis Town
Bury Town
Canvey Island
Cray Wanderers
Dulwich Hamlet (from Ryman Division One South)
East Thurrock United
Enfield Town
Grays Athletic (from Ryman Division One North)
Hampton & Richmond Borough
Harrow Borough
Hendon
Kingstonian
Leiston
Lewes
Lowestoft Town
Maidstone United (from Ryman Division One South)
Margate
Metropolitan Police
Thamesmead Town (from Ryman Division One North)
Thurrock
Wealdstone
Wingate & Finchley
NORTHERN PREMIER LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION
(24 TEAMS)
AFC Fylde
Ashton United
Barwell (from Southern League Premier Division)
Blyth Spartans
Buxton
Chorley
Droylsden (from Conference North)
FC United of Manchester
Frickley Athletic
Grantham Town
Ilkeston
Kings Lynn Town (from Northern Premier League Division One South)
Marine
Matlock Town
Nantwich Town
Rushall Olympic
Skelmersdale United (from Northern Premier League Division One North)
Stafford Rangers
Stamford (from Northern Premier League Division One South)
Stocksbridge Park Steels
Trafford (from Northern Premier League Division One North)
Whitby Town
Witton Albion
Worksop Town
SOUTHERN LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION
(24 TEAMS)
AFC Totton
Arlesey Town
Banbury United
Bashley
Bedford Town
Biggleswade Town (from Southern League Division One Central)
Bideford
Burnham (from Southern League Division One Central)
Cambridge City
Chesham United
Chippenham Town
Corby Town (from Conference North)
Frome Town
Hemel Hempstead Town
Hinckley United (from Conference North)
Hitchin Town
Hungerford Town (from Southern League Division One S&W)
Poole Town (from Southern League Division One S&W)
Redditch United
St Albans City
St Neots Town
Stourbridge
Truro City (from Conference South)
Weymouth
STEP 4
ISTHMIAN LEAGUE DIVISION 1 NORTH
(24 TEAMS)
AFC Sudbury
Aveley
Barkingside (from Essex Senior League)
Brentwood Town
Burnham Ramblers (from Essex Senior League)
Chatham Town
Cheshunt
Dereham Town (from Eastern Counties League)
Erith & Belvedere (from Kent League)
Harlow Town
Heybridge Swifts
Maldon & Tiptree
Needham Market
Redbridge
Romford
Sittingbourne (from Ryman Division One South)
Soham Town Rangers
Tilbury
VCD Athletic (from Kent League)
Waltham Abbey
Waltham Forest
Ware
Witham Town
Wroxham
ISTHMIAN LEAGUE DIVISION 1 SOUTH
(24 TEAMS)
Burgess Hill Town
Carshalton Athletic (from Ryman Premier Division)
Chipstead
Corinthian Casuals
Crawley Down Gatwick
Eastbourne Town
Faversham Town
Folkestone Invicta
Guernsey (from Combined Counties League Premier Division)
Hastings United (from Ryman Premier Division)
Herne Bay
Horsham
Hythe Town
Leatherhead
Merstham
Peacehaven & Telscombe (from Sussex County Football League Division One)
Ramsgate
Redhill (from Sussex County Football League Division One)
Three Bridges
Tooting & Mitcham United
Walton Casuals
Walton & Hersham
Whitstable Town
Worthing
NORTHERN PREMIER LEAGUE DIVISION 1 NORTH
(22 TEAMS)
Bamber Bridge
Burscough
Cammell Laird
Clitheroe
Curzon Ashton
Darlington 1883 (from Northern Football League Division One)
Farsley
Harrogate Railway Athletic
Kendal Town (from Northern Premier League Premier Division)
Lancaster City
Mossley
New Mills
Northwich Victoria (from Northern League Division South)
Ossett Albion
Ossett Town
Padiham (from North West Counties League Premier Division)
Prescott Cables
Radcliffe Borough
Ramsbottom United
Salford City
Wakefield
Warrington Town
NORTHERN PREMIER LEAGUE DIVISION 1 SOUTH
(22 TEAMS)
Bedworth Town (from Southern League Premier Division)
Belper Town
Brigg Town
Carlton Town
Chasetown
Coalville Town
Eastwood Town (from Northern Premier League Premier Division)
Goole (from Northern Premier Division One North)
Gresley
Halesowen Town
Kidsgrove Athletic
Leek Town
Lincoln United
Loughborough Dynamo
Market Drayton Town
Mickleover Sports
Newcastle Town
Rainworth Miners Welfare
Romulus
Scarborough Athletic (from Northern Counties East League Premier Division)
Sheffield
Sutton Coldfield Town
SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION 1 CENTRAL
(22 TEAMS)
AFC Hayes
Ashford Town (Mddx)
Aylesbury
Aylesbury United (from Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division)
Barton Rovers
Beaconsfield SYCOB
Chalfont St Peter
Chertsey Town
Daventry Town
Dunstable Town (from Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division)
Egham Town (from Combined Counties League Premier Division)
Kettering Town (from Southern League Premier Division)
Leighton Town
Marlow (from Hellenic League Premier Division)
North Greenford United
Northwood
Potters Bar Town (from Ryman Division One North)
Royston Town
Rugby Town
St Ives Town (from United Counties League Premier Division)
Slough Town
Uxbridge
SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION 1 SOUTH & WEST
(22 TEAMS)
Bishops Cleeve
Bridgwater Town
Cinderford Town
Cirencester Town
Clevedon Town
Didcot Town
Evesham United
Fleet Town (from Southern League Division One Central)
Godalming Town (from Southern League Division One Central)
Guildford City (from Southern League Division One Central)
Mangotsfield United
Merthyr Town
North Leigh
Paulton Rovers
Shortwood United
Stratford Town (from Midland Football Alliance)
Swindon Supermarine
Taunton Town
Thatcham Town (from Southern League Division One Central)
Tiverton Town
Wimborne Town
Yate Town
Thursday, 16 May 2013
THE THURSDAY CLUB #1 - IRON TUGBOAT CITY FC
During the close season every Thursday The Cold End will be bringing you details of some of the lesser known football teams in London and the surrounding counties to show and promote that grass roots game is still alive and kicking in some parts.
What a great place to start with the uniquely named "Iron Tugboat City" whom play their home games at Hall Place in Bexley just off of the A2 and were formed in 2006 as an 11-a-side team. They currently play in Division Three of the South London Football Alliance alongside Crayford Arrows, Downham Town and Old Bromleians 'A' to name a few teams.
The league table shows they have won five of their twenty league games this season but only three were officially won against Oakfield (3-0), Chislehurst Sports (3-0), Old Colfeians (3-4) with the other two awarded wins against Old Bromleians 'A' and Crown AFC Academy after their opponents couldn't raise sides. They also recorded two victories against State Street which have now been expunged as State Street have withdrawn from the league.
Old Bromleians 'A' finished bottom of the table and had a season to forget with 10-0, 10-1 and 9-0 defeats included. Their only win came against The Iron in a 3-4 away victory on Saturday 12 January 2013.
ITC started off in the Bromley and District Football League in 2006 and moved onwards and upwards to the South London Football Alliance in 2010. Their best result in the SLA came on Saturday 20th November 2010 in a 0-10 victory at West Hill Reserves.
IRON TUGBOAT CITY'S PLAYING RECORD
since joining the South London Football Alliance in 2010/11
| SEASON | DIVISION | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | PTS |
| 2010/11 | FOUR | 24 | 13 | 7 | 4 | 63 | 37 | +26 | 46 |
| 2011/12 | THREE | 20 | 4 | 4 | 12 | 20 | 51 | -31 | 16 |
| 2012/13 | THREE | 20 | 5 | 2 | 13 | 27 | 58 | -31 | 17 |
You can follow Iron Tugboat City on Twitter - @Irontugboatcity
Monday, 13 May 2013
JUSTHAM MAKES MOVES ON UP TO THE HATTERS
A big congratulations and good luck goes out from The Cold End to East Thurrock United goalkeeper Elliott Justham who has been signed by John Still's Conference side Luton Town today.
Justham has played many times versus Enfield Town for Leyton, Redbridge, Brentwood Town and The Rocks. He is a fine example of the phrase 'hard work pays off' and to lay off the pies as when he played for Leyton back in January 2010 he wasn't the smallest of keepers. Also it shows there are still players that are very good in the lower non-leagues and just need to be given a chance.
If he is as half as successful as the many signings the ex Dagger's boss makes from non-league he'll do very well at Kenilworth Road.
Justham has played many times versus Enfield Town for Leyton, Redbridge, Brentwood Town and The Rocks. He is a fine example of the phrase 'hard work pays off' and to lay off the pies as when he played for Leyton back in January 2010 he wasn't the smallest of keepers. Also it shows there are still players that are very good in the lower non-leagues and just need to be given a chance.
If he is as half as successful as the many signings the ex Dagger's boss makes from non-league he'll do very well at Kenilworth Road.
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| Above - Justham in Leyton's colours in January 2010 |
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| Above - A more slim-line Justham playing for Redbridge in April 2011 |
Sunday, 12 May 2013
FOOTBALL NOT FINISHED JUST YET
The Ryman League season maybe finished but there are still a few games in local leagues and some Cup Finals left to play in the forthcoming weeks. Below is list of some of the fixtures scheduled over the next week. Please check with club's websites for kick off times and venues -
MONDAY 12th MAY
MIDDLESEX COUNTY LEAGUE (SUNDAYS)
DIVISION ONE CUP FINAL
HAYES END WANDERERS v AFC HAMMERSMITH TOWN @ Uxbridge FC
This game pits first v second place in the league. The two play again on Sunday 19th May in the league at Warren Farm in a real title decider as you'll see from the league positions below. A win for Hayes End would see them win the title. A win for AFC would seem them move top on goal difference and crown them champions with one more game to play against third placed Old Greenfordians. When the two teams met in the league back in October it was a very narrow 1-0 win for Hayes End.
TUESDAY 14th MAY
ESSEX OLYMPIAN LEAGUE
PREMIER DIVISION
FRENFORD SENIOR v WHITE ENSIGN
HANNAKINS FARM v HAROLD HILL
RAYLEIGH TOWN v WESTHAMIANS
Frenford Senior are still in with a chance to win the title as they have four games left to play and are just nine points behind Kelvedon Hatch who have completed their fixtures. Ten points from their remaining twelve will see them finish on 61 points and league champions. They could mathematically win it with nine points but would need to overturn the +14 goal difference Kelvedon have on them. One defeat for Frenford and it would all but hand the hand the title to the current top team.
Frenford play at home to White Ensign (9th place) on Tuesday, then travel to Southminster (3rd place and unbeaten in six games with their last league defeat coming at Frenford) on Saturday before two remaining home games versus Westhamians (21/5 - 13th place) and Hannakins Farm (25/5 - 6th place).
HERTFORDSHIRE SENIOR COUNTY LEAGUE
DIVISION ONE
ASLAN v HARVESTERS
BEDMOND v EVERGREEN
WEDNESDAY 15th MAY
ESSEX OLYMPIAN LEAGUE
SENIOR DIVISION ONE
RUNWELL HOSPITAL v WADHAM LODGE
The race for the title in Division One is still on and it could all fall down to the final game of the season when Bishops Stortford Swifts travel to Wadham Lodge on Saturdsay 25th May which is a game both teams could go into on 47 and 48 points!
The Swifts other game comes this Saturday when they host Ongar Town (10th place) with Wadham playing Runwell away (11th), Herongate Athletic at home (8th) and Benfleet (12th of 12) away before the game against Swifts.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY LEAGUE
PREMIER DIVISION
BROADFIELDS UNITED v INTERWOOD
NORTH KENSINGTON v HOUNSLOW WANDERERS
SINGH SABHA SLOUGH v HILLINGDON
SLOANE v FC ROMANIA
DIVISION ONE (WEST)
LANCASTER v PITSHANGER DYNAMO
LPOSSA v SANDGATE
SOUTH MIDLANDS FLOODLIT CUP FINAL
OXHEY JETS v COCKFOSTERS @ Oxhey Jets FC
It should be decent game which pits third in the Premier Division of the Spartan South Midlands League versus second in Division One. The Jets could make it two cups in a week as they won the Hertfordshire Charity Shield last Wednesday night by beating Hertford Town 4-0. Centre forward Lewis Putman has scored an absolutely amazing total of 80 (E-I-G-H-T-Y) goals this season and will come up against the non-league veteran and 'Foster's player of the season Fergus Moore which should be an interesting battle. There is no doubt in my mind that Putman could play at a higher level of football and maybe he will make a move up the pyramid in the summer. When I saw Putman play against Aylesbury United in March I was certainly impressed by him and can confirm he is not just a goal scorer but also holds the ball up well and brings others into the play.
THURSDAY 16th MAY
ESSEX SENIOR LEAGUE RESERVE CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY OFF FINAL
CANVEY ISLAND RES v ENFIELD TOWN RES @ Bowers & Pitsea
It's the East v West in the Essex Senior League Reserve Leagues as the champions of each division play-off to see who is the ultimate champion. It'll be tough for Town's reserve side as Canvey pipped Tilbury to the East title by one point and only lost one of their eighteen league games against The Dockers.
SATURDAY 18th MAY
ANAGRAM RECORDS CUP FINAL
BALDOCK TOWN v KENT ATHLETIC @ Herts County Ground, Letchworth
ESSEX OLYMPIAN LEAGUE
PREMIER DIVISION
WHITE ENSIGN v BUCKHURST HILL
HANNAKINS FARM v ALDBOROUGH ATHLETIC
HAROLD HILL v RAYLEIGH TOWN
HUTTON v MANFORD WAY
SOUTHMINSTER v FRENFORD SENIOR
SENIOR DIVISION ONE
BISHOPS STORTFORD SWIFTS v ONGAR TOWN
RUNWELL HOSPITAL v NEWBURY FOREST
WADHAM LODGE v HERONGATE ATHLETIC
SENIOR DIVISION THREE
BASILDON TOWN v TOBY
RAMSDEN SCOTIA v DEBDEN SPORTS
STAMBRIDGE UNITED v SHENFIELD AFC
MIDDLESEX COUNTY LEAGUE
PREMIER DIVISION
FC ASSYRIA v HILLINGDON
FC DEPORTIVO v SPORTING HACKNEY
INDIAN GYMKHANA v BROADFIELDS UNITED
INTERWOOD v BRITISH AIRWAYS
SLOANE v HOUNSLOW WANDERERS
DIVISION ONE (CENTRAL & EAST)
CRICKLEWOOD WANDERERS v AFC WEMBLEY
FFC HARINGEY v THE LORD SANCTURY
ST LAWRENCE v WEST END
STONEWALL v FIRE UNITED CHRISTIAN
DIVISION ONE (WEST)
IMPERIAL COLLEGE OLD BOYS v WEST LONDON SARACENS
KENSINGTON DRAGONS v MARSH RANGERS
PITSANGER DYNAMO v SANDGATE *doubler header
DIVISION TWO
AYM HIGHER v STEDFAST
MONDAY 12th MAY
MIDDLESEX COUNTY LEAGUE (SUNDAYS)
DIVISION ONE CUP FINAL
HAYES END WANDERERS v AFC HAMMERSMITH TOWN @ Uxbridge FC
This game pits first v second place in the league. The two play again on Sunday 19th May in the league at Warren Farm in a real title decider as you'll see from the league positions below. A win for Hayes End would see them win the title. A win for AFC would seem them move top on goal difference and crown them champions with one more game to play against third placed Old Greenfordians. When the two teams met in the league back in October it was a very narrow 1-0 win for Hayes End.
| POS | TEAM | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | PTS |
| 1 | HAYES END WANDERERS | 17 | 13 | 3 | 1 | 55 | 24 | +31 | 42 |
| 2 | AFC HAMMERSMITH TOWN | 15 | 13 | 0 | 2 | 58 | 11 | +47 | 39 |
TUESDAY 14th MAY
ESSEX OLYMPIAN LEAGUE
PREMIER DIVISION
FRENFORD SENIOR v WHITE ENSIGN
HANNAKINS FARM v HAROLD HILL
RAYLEIGH TOWN v WESTHAMIANS
Frenford Senior are still in with a chance to win the title as they have four games left to play and are just nine points behind Kelvedon Hatch who have completed their fixtures. Ten points from their remaining twelve will see them finish on 61 points and league champions. They could mathematically win it with nine points but would need to overturn the +14 goal difference Kelvedon have on them. One defeat for Frenford and it would all but hand the hand the title to the current top team.
Frenford play at home to White Ensign (9th place) on Tuesday, then travel to Southminster (3rd place and unbeaten in six games with their last league defeat coming at Frenford) on Saturday before two remaining home games versus Westhamians (21/5 - 13th place) and Hannakins Farm (25/5 - 6th place).
| POS | TEAM | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | PTS |
| 1 | KELVEDON HATCH | 26 | 19 | 3 | 4 | 74 | 29 | +45 | 60 |
| 2 | FRENFORD SENIOR | 22 | 15 | 6 | 1 | 49 | 18 | +31 | 51 |
HERTFORDSHIRE SENIOR COUNTY LEAGUE
DIVISION ONE
ASLAN v HARVESTERS
BEDMOND v EVERGREEN
WEDNESDAY 15th MAY
ESSEX OLYMPIAN LEAGUE
SENIOR DIVISION ONE
RUNWELL HOSPITAL v WADHAM LODGE
The race for the title in Division One is still on and it could all fall down to the final game of the season when Bishops Stortford Swifts travel to Wadham Lodge on Saturdsay 25th May which is a game both teams could go into on 47 and 48 points!
The Swifts other game comes this Saturday when they host Ongar Town (10th place) with Wadham playing Runwell away (11th), Herongate Athletic at home (8th) and Benfleet (12th of 12) away before the game against Swifts.
| POS | TEAM | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | PTS | PP | FORM |
| 1 | BISHOPS STORTFORD SWIFTS | 20 | 15 | 0 | 5 | 68 | 37 | +31 | 45 | 51 | LWLWWW |
| 2 | NEWBURY FOREST | 21 | 13 | 4 | 4 | 77 | 44 | +33 | 42* | 45 | WDDWWL |
| 3 | SPRINGFIELD | 22 | 11 | 6 | 5 | 52 | 29 | +23 | 39 | 39 | WWDDWD |
| 4 | WADHAM LODGE | 18 | 12 | 2 | 4 | 39 | 23 | +16 | 38 | 50 | DWWWDW |
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| Above - Could Wadham and Bishops Stortford Swifts end the season with a dramatic title decider? |
MIDDLESEX COUNTY LEAGUE
PREMIER DIVISION
BROADFIELDS UNITED v INTERWOOD
NORTH KENSINGTON v HOUNSLOW WANDERERS
SINGH SABHA SLOUGH v HILLINGDON
SLOANE v FC ROMANIA
DIVISION ONE (WEST)
LANCASTER v PITSHANGER DYNAMO
LPOSSA v SANDGATE
SOUTH MIDLANDS FLOODLIT CUP FINAL
OXHEY JETS v COCKFOSTERS @ Oxhey Jets FC
It should be decent game which pits third in the Premier Division of the Spartan South Midlands League versus second in Division One. The Jets could make it two cups in a week as they won the Hertfordshire Charity Shield last Wednesday night by beating Hertford Town 4-0. Centre forward Lewis Putman has scored an absolutely amazing total of 80 (E-I-G-H-T-Y) goals this season and will come up against the non-league veteran and 'Foster's player of the season Fergus Moore which should be an interesting battle. There is no doubt in my mind that Putman could play at a higher level of football and maybe he will make a move up the pyramid in the summer. When I saw Putman play against Aylesbury United in March I was certainly impressed by him and can confirm he is not just a goal scorer but also holds the ball up well and brings others into the play.
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| Above - The Non-League Veteran celebrates last night at the Cockfosters 'zero-budget' promotion party! |
THURSDAY 16th MAY
ESSEX SENIOR LEAGUE RESERVE CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY OFF FINAL
CANVEY ISLAND RES v ENFIELD TOWN RES @ Bowers & Pitsea
It's the East v West in the Essex Senior League Reserve Leagues as the champions of each division play-off to see who is the ultimate champion. It'll be tough for Town's reserve side as Canvey pipped Tilbury to the East title by one point and only lost one of their eighteen league games against The Dockers.
SATURDAY 18th MAY
ANAGRAM RECORDS CUP FINAL
BALDOCK TOWN v KENT ATHLETIC @ Herts County Ground, Letchworth
ESSEX OLYMPIAN LEAGUE
PREMIER DIVISION
WHITE ENSIGN v BUCKHURST HILL
HANNAKINS FARM v ALDBOROUGH ATHLETIC
HAROLD HILL v RAYLEIGH TOWN
HUTTON v MANFORD WAY
SOUTHMINSTER v FRENFORD SENIOR
SENIOR DIVISION ONE
BISHOPS STORTFORD SWIFTS v ONGAR TOWN
RUNWELL HOSPITAL v NEWBURY FOREST
WADHAM LODGE v HERONGATE ATHLETIC
SENIOR DIVISION THREE
BASILDON TOWN v TOBY
RAMSDEN SCOTIA v DEBDEN SPORTS
STAMBRIDGE UNITED v SHENFIELD AFC
MIDDLESEX COUNTY LEAGUE
PREMIER DIVISION
FC ASSYRIA v HILLINGDON
FC DEPORTIVO v SPORTING HACKNEY
INDIAN GYMKHANA v BROADFIELDS UNITED
INTERWOOD v BRITISH AIRWAYS
SLOANE v HOUNSLOW WANDERERS
DIVISION ONE (CENTRAL & EAST)
CRICKLEWOOD WANDERERS v AFC WEMBLEY
FFC HARINGEY v THE LORD SANCTURY
ST LAWRENCE v WEST END
STONEWALL v FIRE UNITED CHRISTIAN
DIVISION ONE (WEST)
IMPERIAL COLLEGE OLD BOYS v WEST LONDON SARACENS
KENSINGTON DRAGONS v MARSH RANGERS
PITSANGER DYNAMO v SANDGATE *doubler header
DIVISION TWO
AYM HIGHER v STEDFAST
THE CHIPS ARE DOWN FOR THE MIGHTY K'S
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| There is some seating at Knebworth's pitch |
British Summer Time usually means some early evening kick offs in the sunshine on pitches and grounds without floodlights but it was anything but that at the Knebworth Recreation Ground on Thursday evening. The recent good weather we've been enjoying suddendly disappeared to make way for rain, cold and gusty wind as Knebworth welcomed Chipperfield Corinthians for a Hertfordshire Senior County League Premier Division game. Unfortunately for the spectators who braved the conditions there is no shelter around the pitch and only a small overhang from the club-house/changing rooms that keeps you dry!
It's been a tough season for Knebworth who were promoted from Division One at the end of 2011/12 and they finish the season 2nd from bottom. Chipperfield have done a little better finishing 11th of 16 teams. They were much the better team here and could of been more than 0-1 up at half time but for a clearance off the line, a post and two disallowed goals for offside decisions.
The visitors ran in three more goals in the second half with The K's replying via the penaly spot given for soft push in the box. Chipperfield finished off a great week on Saturday winning 0-1 at Wormley Rovers and they also won 2-3 at Letchworth GC Eagles on Tuesday.
Match highlights are below
(I done my best in the wind and rain with all the goals and talking points included)
Saturday, 11 May 2013
COULD WIGAN ATHLETIC MAKE HISTORY TODAY?
An unfashionable, un-fancied, former non-league club and in terms of crowds an unloved team against one littered with international superstars is how what was to become one of the most famous finals in FA Cup history was described in 1988. We all know that The Crazy Gang of Wimbledon overcome all the odds that day and there are a number of parallels that can be drawn in today's final between Wigan Athletic and Manchester City.
One being that Wimbledon's starting XI that day cost just £505,000 in transfer fees opposed Liverpool's (at the time reasonably massive amount) of £6,110,000. In their last Premier League games played Wigan's starting XI totalled just £10,000,000 which is dwarfed by that of Manchester City at £188,300,000. An indication as to how much football finances have changed at the top end of the game over the past 25 years is that City's starting team in their last game cost 209 times the amount Liverpool paid Watford for John Barnes in 1987.
Secondly, Manchester City are rated as 1/3 favourites with Wigan Athletic ranked at 8/1 outsiders. Liverpool were the overwhelming favourites in 1988. Nobody expected Wimbledon to win even though they had finished seventh in the top division just below Arsenal. The draw is rated at 17/4.
Newport County left the league at the end of the 1987/88 season and returned by winning the Blue Square Premier Play-Off final this season. Could this be an Omen for the small club to triumph?
The Cold End will be supporting Wigan Athletic (who entered the football league one year after Wimbledon did) today. I've got nothing against City but we all love an underdog and it would be fantastic for football if they were to emulate what Wimbledon did in 1988. If would show that the little clubs can do it if they build and keep faith in their manager no matter what.
It has to be said today's game shows how far Manchester City have progressed also as this is a repeat of the 1999 Division Two (now League One) play-off semi-final which City won 2-1 on aggregate and went on famously to beat Gillingham in the Final at Wembley Stadium.
Below are some pictures of the match programme Wigan Athletic produced for the FA Trophy Second Round clash versus Enfield FC in 1978 which ended 1-1. Tony Bass scored The E's goal at Springfield Park. It's a good example of how far The Latics have come in the last 35 years. Wigan, who lost the 1973 Trophy final to Scarborough, will become the first team to play in both the FA Trophy and FA Cup final today. The game against The E's was replayed at Southbury Road and ended all square at 1-1 with a further replay at Leicester's City's Filbert Street ground ending 3-0 to Wigan who lost to Leatherhead in the 3rd Round.
I'm sure lots of fans will today comment on how the FA Cup is not as good as it used to be and has lost it's magic. I think for the majority of non-league fans it's the best competition to play in. Ask the supporter's of Hastings United who made the memorable Third Round trip up to Middlesbrough this season? Many Enfield Town fans have happy memories of trips with the old Enfield club to Leicester City, Cardiff City, Torquay United, York City, Chesterfield, Preston North End (then managed by David Moyes), Peterborough United and many more football league clubs. Hopefully next season we might be that club who get a good run in the world's greatest knock out competition.
One being that Wimbledon's starting XI that day cost just £505,000 in transfer fees opposed Liverpool's (at the time reasonably massive amount) of £6,110,000. In their last Premier League games played Wigan's starting XI totalled just £10,000,000 which is dwarfed by that of Manchester City at £188,300,000. An indication as to how much football finances have changed at the top end of the game over the past 25 years is that City's starting team in their last game cost 209 times the amount Liverpool paid Watford for John Barnes in 1987.
Secondly, Manchester City are rated as 1/3 favourites with Wigan Athletic ranked at 8/1 outsiders. Liverpool were the overwhelming favourites in 1988. Nobody expected Wimbledon to win even though they had finished seventh in the top division just below Arsenal. The draw is rated at 17/4.
Newport County left the league at the end of the 1987/88 season and returned by winning the Blue Square Premier Play-Off final this season. Could this be an Omen for the small club to triumph?
The Cold End will be supporting Wigan Athletic (who entered the football league one year after Wimbledon did) today. I've got nothing against City but we all love an underdog and it would be fantastic for football if they were to emulate what Wimbledon did in 1988. If would show that the little clubs can do it if they build and keep faith in their manager no matter what.
It has to be said today's game shows how far Manchester City have progressed also as this is a repeat of the 1999 Division Two (now League One) play-off semi-final which City won 2-1 on aggregate and went on famously to beat Gillingham in the Final at Wembley Stadium.
Below are some pictures of the match programme Wigan Athletic produced for the FA Trophy Second Round clash versus Enfield FC in 1978 which ended 1-1. Tony Bass scored The E's goal at Springfield Park. It's a good example of how far The Latics have come in the last 35 years. Wigan, who lost the 1973 Trophy final to Scarborough, will become the first team to play in both the FA Trophy and FA Cup final today. The game against The E's was replayed at Southbury Road and ended all square at 1-1 with a further replay at Leicester's City's Filbert Street ground ending 3-0 to Wigan who lost to Leatherhead in the 3rd Round.
I'm sure lots of fans will today comment on how the FA Cup is not as good as it used to be and has lost it's magic. I think for the majority of non-league fans it's the best competition to play in. Ask the supporter's of Hastings United who made the memorable Third Round trip up to Middlesbrough this season? Many Enfield Town fans have happy memories of trips with the old Enfield club to Leicester City, Cardiff City, Torquay United, York City, Chesterfield, Preston North End (then managed by David Moyes), Peterborough United and many more football league clubs. Hopefully next season we might be that club who get a good run in the world's greatest knock out competition.
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Tuesday, 7 May 2013
LONDON APSA V CLAPTON - CHANGE OF VENUE
The Tons need a win to move one point above Bowers & Pitsea in the table and thus avoid finishing bottom.
The Clapton Ultras will be in attendance so it's well worth a visit.
Monday, 6 May 2013
ASLAN FC LIFT THE FAMOUS AUBERY CUP
Aslan FC, whom were only formed last summer, lifted the famous Hertfordshire Senior County League Aubery Cup this afternoon with a 5-3 victory over Premier Division title winner's Metropolitan Police Bushey. It's been a season to remember for Aslan and on this showing will be quite a force in the Premier Division in the 2013/14 campaign. They are currently top of Divison One with three games left to play on 69 points (possible points 78), Second placed Hatfield RBL can get to a total of 71 points if they win their final game with third placed Bedmond capable of getting 75 points with four games left currently on 63 points.
Aslan's front two of Kieran Bishop (ex Cockfosters and Redbridge) and Charlie Ledula (ex Bush Hill Rangers/Goffs Oak) caused the Police back four problems all game with their impressive pace and power. Ledula bagged a hat-trick in a game that Aslan were 0-4 up in at one point. Former Enfield Town player Deniz Mehmet was also in the Aslan side who are managed by ex Goffs Oak boss Kem Kemal.
To get to the final Aslan had beaten Premier Division side's Belstone and Whitwell along with Bushey Rangers and Hertford Heath which is another indication of how strong they will be next season.
For the Met Police team it was a disappointing afternoon but they can take heart in the fact they have won the Premier Division title for only the second time in their history this season. Aslan along with a number of other teams will sure to to run them close in 2013/14.
MATCH PHOTOS ARE BELOW
Aslan's front two of Kieran Bishop (ex Cockfosters and Redbridge) and Charlie Ledula (ex Bush Hill Rangers/Goffs Oak) caused the Police back four problems all game with their impressive pace and power. Ledula bagged a hat-trick in a game that Aslan were 0-4 up in at one point. Former Enfield Town player Deniz Mehmet was also in the Aslan side who are managed by ex Goffs Oak boss Kem Kemal.
To get to the final Aslan had beaten Premier Division side's Belstone and Whitwell along with Bushey Rangers and Hertford Heath which is another indication of how strong they will be next season.
For the Met Police team it was a disappointing afternoon but they can take heart in the fact they have won the Premier Division title for only the second time in their history this season. Aslan along with a number of other teams will sure to to run them close in 2013/14.
MATCH PHOTOS ARE BELOW
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| Above - Aslan celebrate one of their five goals |
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| Above - Aslan celebrate again |
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| Above - Man of the Match Charlie Ledula shows his award off in front of the famous Aubery Cup |
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