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At Wheatsheaf Lane, Saturday 28th April 2007 (8pm)
Staines Town FC held their annual Presentation Evening at the Club on Saturday evening, following the return of the coach from the last 1st XI game of the season at Heybridge Swifts.
John Hanson began the evening by introducing club Chairman Alan Boon, who made most of the presentations, beginning with flowers to the ladies who staff the boardroom on matchdays – Maureen Hanson, Barbara Moss, Vanessa Cox, and Hilary Denning, and a card to his grand daughter Chlöe Boon. There were also flowers for the Club’s hard working Kit Manager, Margaret Gould (collected on her behalf by husband Graham).
The CLIFF LANE MEMORIAL AWARD was the first of the regular trophies to be presented, and it went to a man who has been invaluable as the Club have attracted some large gates this season, Safety Officer Bob Sherwood. Acknowledging the help Bob receives from his wife, there were also flowers for Kim Sherwood.
ACADEMY SIDES
Unfortunately neither Martyn Spong (Manager), nor his assistant Mark Fabian could be present, as they were attending a surprise party for Martyn’s birthday. In presenting the awards, Mr Boon hoped that the recipients can follow in the footsteps of some of the previous winners…
The Under 19 team (Kingston College) – after seeming to have settled for a mid-table position, came from nowhere with a brilliant run in the second half of the season, to win the South East Region of the ECFA League. This puts them through to the National Play-Offs, which start this Wednesday afternoon with a Quarter-Final tie at home to Swansea at the Chelsea training ground, Cobham.
The Under 19 Player of the Year for 2006/7 is a player who has shown a wonderful commitment to the team in this, his first season. Having left home to come to the Academy at the age of only 16, he has shown a marvellous attitude and wonderful enthusiasm, which has rubbed off on all the staff and his team mates. He is an extremely popular member of the set-up, and is a likely successor as Captain for next season. The winner’s mother came all the way down from Bolton to be at the presentation, and she can be rightly proud that Staines Town’s Under 19 Player of the Season 2006/7 is MICHAEL ‘Gravy’ MARREN.
The Under 18 team once again enjoyed a very good run in the ESFA National Colleges’ Cup, reaching the last 8 of a competition that attracts some 300 entries from all over England. They also enjoyed a measure of success in cup competitions, in which Staines Town reached the First Round Proper of the FA Youth Cup for the first time in 7 seasons, and then only went out controversially to Woking. They also reached the final of the Middlesex Senior Youth Cup for the third time in four years – but just as in the previous two appearances, they ended up with the runners-up medals. Meanwhile, with all this cup activity going on, the defence of the Southern Youth League (East Division) championship which we won last season was always going to be difficult, and so it proved. Staines are currently in 5th place, but with sufficient games in hand to overhaul all but leaders Warlingham. However, the League will not allow any more games to be played, and so they will have to wait and hope that the fixtures are better organised in the new Isthmian Youth League which will be entered next season.
Turning to the Player of the Year for the Under 18s, it has been a very close run contest this year, as the general quality has been high across the team, and no-one has stood head and shoulders above anyone else. However, the award this season has gone to a player who has shown an impeccable attitude, a consistently high level of performance, and who has been a great team player – who has also found time to come out top of the goalscoring charts, and that is DOMINIC DWYER.
Finally, there was an award for Special Contribution to the Academy, which went to Secretary Steve Parsons.
WOMEN’S TEAM
After the success of 2005/6, and with the departure of their Manager, Coach, and several influential players, it looked as though this season would be a very difficult one, especially as the girls had been promoted to the Greater London League’s top division. However, player Kate Cook agreed to become a player-manager, and she set about recruiting several new players to face the new challenge, as well as Sean Caldwell as her young assistant manager. Things did not start very brightly, with a shock defeat at Northwood, and the side also made relatively early exits from the FA Women’s Cup, Middlesex Senior Cup (having won the Junior equivalent last year), and League Cup. However, they too started to build up an impressive run in the League, and – with one game to go they secured the First Division championship – a remarkable achievement to have won two successive promotions in their first two years. Not only that, but they have reached the Final of the first ever Isthmian Women’s Cup, having been drawn away in each round, to be held at Dulwich Hamlet FC on Thursday evening against Leyton. Beyond that, the team were wished every success next season in the … [deep breath] … London & South East Regional League, Division One (London Section).
Having not quite completed their season, the Women (like the Vets) will hold a separate presentation night on a date to be arranged, and so no trophies were handed out tonight. However, Alan Boon did re-present the League Championship Shield to Kate Cook and her Captain, Kate Davies.
RESERVES
At this point, the floor was handed over to Reserve Team Manager Trent Phillips, who was offered the post at the start of the season by Steve Cordery, and – despite a warning that it is the hardest job in football – he took it. It has proved to be an enjoyable and successful season, with the side sitting 2nd in the League and having reached the Final of the Capital League President’s Cup, so Trent extended his thanks to Steve and Craig Maskell for having faith in him to do the job, Chris Wainwright (the team secretary and de facto assistant), Tash King (physio), and all the players who have appeared for the side. Everyone has shown a great attitude, whether it has been senior players who have been asked to drop down, or Academy players stepping up, or triallists from outside. A vote among the players resulted in the Reserve Players’ Player Of The Year award going to JORDAN KIFFIN.
The Manager’s Player of the Year went to CHRIS ROBINSON, who – like Jordan – has made inroads into the First Team this season. Trent quipped that his own performance – in saving a vital penalty in the semi-final shoot-out last week – came just too late for him to be considered for this award.
FIRST TEAM
Handing back to Alan Boon, he briefly summarised the First Team’s season, which was not one of the most memorable. The side had finished mid-table in the Ryman League Premier Division, and made little impact in cups beyond reaching the Semi-Final of the League (Westview) Cup. There was a Team Performance Award for the 4-2 win at Margate, and a Golden Gloves Award for Shaun Allaway. However, the players have given us a lot of pleasure and it is hoped that they will all be back next season.
The Players’ Player of the Year was won by MARK NWOKEJI, a very popular and hard-working member of the team, who also ended as top scorer.
A team is nothing without its supporters, and the Club is pleased to present an annual Supporter Of The Year award to recognise someone who has stepped from the ranks and supported the club in a special way. This year’s winner, JESSE RICHARDS, rarely misses a game, and also does a lot of work on the playing surface, on youth development, and in other capacities.
Another unusual award at Wheatsheaf Lane is the Jack Hanson Clubman of the Year Award, which usually goes to an administrator, but this season was awarded to player GARETH RISBRIDGER. Gareth suffered a horrendous injury back in 2004, and had over 2 years of surgery and pain. Yet he continued to attend matches and work hard, despite setbacks which not only threatened his playing career, but might also have cost him his leg. And so it has been great to see him back in action, playing as well as ever, in 2006/7.
Before the final trophy was presented, there were three further recipients of flowers – the Chairman’s daughters, Corinne Boon and Michelle Yates have provided invaluable help once again throughout the season, as has Angie Payne – whom it is hoped will become next season’s Commercial Manager.
The Club’s oldest award is the Dick Watmore Supporters’ Club Player of the Year Award. It quite often happens that the supporters are in agreement with the players, and this year – with the highest poll in over a decade – this was once again the case, as MARK NWOKEJI scooped his second award of the night.
Saturday 28th April 2007 (3.00pm) – Ryman League Premier Division – Official Att 215
HEYBRIDGE SWIFTS (1) 1
Gary Burrell (penalty) 7m
STAINES TOWN (0) 0
By Steve Parsons.
Staines were unable to end the season on an unbeaten note, as they went down to a single goal, scored from the penalty spot, at an arid Scraley Road on Saturday. Last season, Staines were beaten at Heybridge in their last away game of the season, thus ending their hopes of a play-off, but this time there was nothing but pride to play for, as Staines could not move from their 12th spot, although Swifts climbed a place from 11th to 10th as a result of their victory. However, Steve Cordery did take the opportunity to hand League debuts to two of his younger squad members – full back Tim Pitt from the Academy, and midfielder Gianluca Palladino from Barnet, whilst also starting with Jack Tallentire and Jordan Kiffin (back from a trip to Jamaica following a family bereavement). Dave Sargent was also recovered from his midweek illness, whilst the perilous state of the pitch – parched and uneven – meant that Kevin Warner, Darren Campbell, and Gareth Risbridger were given rests. Heybridge, too, blooded a couple of reserve players. The afternoon was bright and sunny, with a fairly stiff breeze at Staines’ backs as they attacked the far end in the first half.
The only real incident of note in the whole game occurred very early on, with James Courtnage parrying a long range effort which had taken an awkward bounce, but then fouling Craig Hudgell as he latched onto the rebound. The Staines ’keeper was yellow carded, and Gary Burrell slammed in the 7th minute penalty. Staines slowly settled down after that setback, with Nwokeji (twice) and Thomas all testing Danny Gay with efforts from distance, and André Scarlett seeing a shot blocked by Dean Chandler. Adam Gillespie won the ball in midfield, and tried a hopeful shot, which took an outrageous bounce in front of goal and almost embarrassed Courtnage, while Scarlett thudded a free kick into Gay’s body. Right at the end of the half, Staines came tantalisingly close to an equaliser, with Sargent sending in a testing corner which was half cleared as far as Adam Thompson, but the ball did not bounce true as he tried to strike it past Gay.
Gillespie found the net for the home side just 4 minutes after the restart, but the offside flag was already raised, before Staines brought on Campbell and Howard Newton for Palladino and Tallentine, and then Kevin Warner for a limping Thomas. Matt Flitter at one end, and Matt Cutchey at the other both worked space for headers from corners, but the second half was a largely forgettable affair. Courtnage made a fine fingertip save from Reddaway’s late strike, but the last 10 minutes belonged to the visitors, who pressed hard for an equaliser. A good move led to Thompson firing just too high. On 83 minutes, Sargent’s free kick was delayed as a stray ball had entered the field: the Staines defender thumped the interloper into the car park … but then unfortunately did the same with the free kick! Gay made a fine save after some delightful skill by Nwokeji, throwing himself to his right to divert a low shot round for a corner, and finally Howard Newton also drawing a good save from Gay. It was a disappointing end to a fairly disappointing season for the Swans, but one which has shown plenty of promise for a better campaign in 2007/8.
Staines: Courtnage; Tallentire (Campbell 55), Sargent, Thompson, Flitter ©, Pitt, Thomas K Warner 65), Scarlett, Palladino (H Newton 55), Nwokeji, J Kiffin; unused subs J Newton, Robinson.
Heybridge: Gay, Pond (White 72), Hummerstone, Shinn, Cutchey, Chandler (Artun HT), Nelson (Hull 60), Gillespie, Reddaway, Hudgell, Burrell; unused Barber, Goodwin.
R: JGN (Gary) Jerden (Orsett, Grays); ARs Maurice T Cook (White Notley, Braintree) & Darren M Stobbart (Bury St Edmunds)
Tuesday 24th April 2007 (7.45pm) – Ryman League Premier Division – Official Att 178
SLOUGH TOWN (0) 0
STAINES TOWN (1) 2
Howard Newton 40m, Dean Thomas 50m
By Steve Parsons.
Staines extended their unbeaten run to 5 games with this hard earned victory over the bottom club, neighbours Slough. Steve Cordery was without Dave Sargent, but Dean Thomas’ introduction was the only change from Saturday’s line-up. The evening was mild and pleasant, but Slough’s hired Stag Meadow pitch was in a very sorry state – rutted and of uneven bounce, and this as much as anything hampered the efforts of both teams to play much attractive football. However, Staines plans suffered a further setback after only 12 minutes play, when James Younghusband had to be carried off with a twisted ankle, following a collision, and he was replaced by the lively Darren Campbell.
In a rather shapeless first half, Staines edged the proceedings, with Mark Nwokeji and Howard Newton both forcing half chances, and the former looking likely to score on 35 minutes, only to be halted by a tight offside decision. Slough then advanced to the other end, where Terry Davies forced James Courtnage into a smart save, for a corner. The deadlock was broken on 40 minutes in strange style, when Nwokeji played the ball forwards, but with Howard Newton outnumbered by defender Michael Donovan and goalie Carl Dennison, there did not seem much danger of a goal. However, Howard Newton was able to stretch out a toe to divert the ball (via a faint touch from Donovan) beyond Dennison, and it bounced slowly into the net from an acute angle. The half ended with Kevin Warner picking up a yellow card for a foul.
Staines began the second period much more their old selves, with Scarlett having a snap shot well saved on 47 minutes. Three minutes later, Dean Thomas tried his luck with a similar one – a hopeful punt from 35 yards – but somehow, instead of catching it cleanly, Dennison contrived to let it bounce of his forearm and into the net. To make matters worse, it seems that he made a similar error a week ago, too! Staines then pressed on to try to extend their lead, but it was not to be as Adam Thompson headed just wide from an accurate Chris Robinson free kick, and the same player saw an effort blocked in front of goal. The Rebels then enjoyed a good last 20 minutes, in which the tiny Rav Braith (who spent a few weeks with Staines a couple of years back) somehow won a header which forced Courtnage into a reflex save as it came up off the uneven surface. Slough’s best move ended with Abby Nsubuga flashing a header just wide, and then, on 80 minutes, they were handed a lifeline when Matt Flitter was adjudged to have been shirt-pulling while the home side pumped in a long free kick. Referee Hatzidakis immediately pointed to the penalty spot, but Courtnage ensured that Slough’s tally of League goals scored at home did not rise above 8 by saving superbly. With time running out, Staines found time for a moment of excellent sportsmanship, following a dreadful looking tackle, above the knee, by Slough player-manager Darron Wilkinson and Campbell. While the referee stood over the Slough man deciding what colour card to show while waiting for him to get to his feet, his white-shirted opponent swiftly intervened on the Slough man’s behalf, begging Mr Hatzidakis not to book him for what he saw was an accidental foul. Thompson and Courtnage still had to clear late chances, while Scarlett picked up a second caution.
Staines: Courtnage; Robinson, K Warner, Thompson, Flitter ©, Scarlett, Risbridger, Scarlett, H Newton, Nwokeji, Younghusband (Campbell 13m); unused subs Maskell, Pitt, Tallentire, Allaway (gk).
Slough: Dennison, Braith, Mills, Daly ©, Donovan, Jefferies, Wilkinson, Davies (Hale 81), Bartley, Bizon (Perrineau-Daly 89), Nsubuga; Deaner, Hokan, Jackson.
R: C Hatzidakis (Eltham); ARs S Maynard & C Wicks (both Berks).
Saturday 21st April 2007 (3pm) – Ryman League Premier Division – Official Att 253
STAINES TOWN (2) 3
James Younghusband 11m, Mark Nwokeji 42m, Matt Flitter 84m
RAMSGATE (0) 1
Michael Yianni 75m
By Steve Parsons.
If it had looked as though Staines’ season was fizzling out, Steve Cordery’s men produced one last hurrah for the crowd who turned up at sunny Wheatsheaf Lane for this final home game. The Manager made two changes from the midweek draw at Hendon, reintroducing Gareth Risbridger (after a hamstring problem) and James Younghusband (after a visit to the Philippines) for Jake Newton (commencing a 2 match ban) and Hussein Isa. There was a first call on the bench for Gianluca Palladino, the young Barnet player, but he was unused. The weather was warm and bright, and the pump had been repaired that morning, helping the pitch to be a little more moist. These two clubs had met only once before – a defeat in Kent just before Christmas. Staines attacked the houses end in the first half.
The visitors started quite brightly, but Staines soon found their feet, with Adam Thomspon seeing a pile-driver pushed for a corner, from which Dave Sargent picjked out Matt Flitter, whose shot was blocked by a defender amid appeals for a penalty for hands. However, Staines did not have to wait long for their opener, when Mark Nwokeji took on the visiting defender and then laid the ball off for young James Younghusband to crisply drive a low shot beyond the diving Paul Wilkerson, to celebrate his first goal for the Club. A good cross by Shaun Welford presented Warren Schulz with a good chance to volley his side level, but he could only manage an airshot. His brother, Ollie Schulz, had a better attempt but his powerful shot flew just wide, and then Staines had Adam Thompson cautioned for dissent. However, Staines came safely through the wobble, and André Scarlett was unlucky with an angled shot across goal, before they scored their second 3 minutes before the interval. The visitors had a free kick just inside their own half, which ‘keeper Wilkerson punted forward, only for the Staines defence to clear. Liam Morris should have been able to send the ball back into the danger area, but he was not alert to the lightning pace of Mark Nwokeji, who stole the ball from him, advanced 30 yards, and then stroked it firmly beyond the ‘keeper. The visitors made two changes at half time, while Staines brought on Dean Thomas (his foot injury now healed) for scorer Younghusband.
Another Rams defensive error let Nwokeji in again within 5 minutes of the restart, but this time Wilkerson came to the rescue by turning his effort for a corner, which in turn led to Scarlett hitting the side netting. A studs-up foul on Howard Newton saw Ashley Burton cautioned, and he was immediately substituted. James Courtnage was called upon to save Michael Yianni’s wickedly deflected shot on 72 minutes, but he had no chance when the Ramsgate front man hit s superb shot just 3 minutes later, having beaten one defender, he picked his spot just inside the near post. The game then really opened out, with Nwokeji and Newton shooting wide from good positions, and good work by Sargent, Warner and Nwokeji leading to Scarlett forcing a fine save, whilst Ramsgate, too, scented their chance to draw level, and pressed forward through Shaun Welford and Mark Munday. Nwokeji again drew a good save from Wilkerson after a great diagonal pass from Risbridger. Staines made sure of the points when they added their third goal on 84 minutes, Thomas winning a corner which Sargent whipped in, and Swans skipper Matt Flitter slammed in his first goal of the season. There were two further cautions – Ramsgate’s Yianni for a rash tackle, although the referee’s whistle unfortunately halted a promising break by Nwokeji, and Staines’ Thomas for delaying a free kick.
Staines: Courtnage; Risbridger, Sargent, Thompson, Flitter ©, Robinson, K Warner, Scarlett, H Newton (McGlashan 88), Nwokeji, Younghusband (Thomas HT); unused subs Pitt, Campbell, Tallentire.
Ramsgate: Wilkerson, Burton (Treadwell 61), Hill (Edusei HT), Morris, O Schulz, Tanner, Yianni, W Schulz (S Vahid HT), Welford, Munday ©, Hadden; unused Pettit, E Vahid.
R: Lee Collins (Ash Vale); ARs Charles Breakspear jr & Vince Penfold (both Surrey).
Sun 22 Apr - STAINES TOWN's Women's side secured a remarkable second successive League title, overcoming a hard-working Thurrock & Tilbury side at Staines Lammas FC to lift the Greater London League Division 1 championship, just 12 months after being promoted as champions of Division 2. Kate Cook's side led 1-0 at the interval thanks to a wonderful strike by Rachel Fell, and added two more in the second period through Sam Oliver and Jo Ginger to run out 3-0 winners, and spark a champagne celebration! Final score 3-0
The side have one remaining League game, versus Luton Town, to be played at Wheatsheaf Park this Thursday evening, and they await news of a date and venue for the first ever Isthmian Women's Cup Final, in which they will face Leyton.
THURSDAY 20 Apr - Staines Town Youths beat high flying Godalming Town 2-1 in a Southern Youth League match at Wheatsheaf Lane, thanks to goals by Elliot Blake and Nick White. However, Reece Jackson pulled one back in the 89th minute, and Staines had to cling on for a substantial amount of stoppage time. This was added because Staines lost both Marvin Brown and Dominic Dwyer to injuries requiring lengthy treatment, and meant that, for the 3rd time in 2 mnths, they ended a game with 10 players due to injury. Martyn Spong's team still have a mathematical chance of retaining their East Division title, but it is likely that they will not do so as they have more matches to play than available dates on which to play them!
Wed 17th April 2007 (7:30) - att 21
Capital League (Western Division)
HARROW BOROUGH Reserves (0) 1
STAINES TOWN Reserves (2) 2
Trent Phillips’ team virtually assured themselves of 2nd place, with this ultimately hard earned win at Earlsmead. Swans started very much the better side, and were worthy leaders on 16 mins when Jermaine McGlashan chipped into the net following good work by Jon Docker and Francis Luke’s cross. After plenty more chances, Staines made it 2-0 on 35 mins, Craig Masham sweeping in a volley after McGlashan’s low centre. Danny Fisher in goal had to make a couple of good saves, but it was 2-0 at the break, and Jack Tallentire almost made it 3 early in the 2nd period, after a Tim Pitt pass. However, a speculative Liam Morris shot (78 mins) put Harrow back in the game, and Staines had plenty of defending to do late on, with Fisher pulling off two great saves, although both Tallentire and Luke might have clinched it with a third.
Staines - Fisher; Pitt, Paul Deegan, Justin Fevrier ©, Richard Orlu, Docker, McGlashan, Bryan Harrison, Luke, Masham, Tallentire; unused Josh Brooks, Simon Salhotra, Chris Robinson, Trent Phillips, Chris Wainwright.
Harrow - Nicholson (Ross 74 - first game back from a broken leg), Brockett, Campbell-Grimshaw, Frempong ©, Henderson, Diston, Wynter (Silcott HT), Constant, Richardson (Coleman 56), Morris, Toku; unused Georgiou, Ferdinand; Ref Roy Pardoe (Windsor), ARs James Bird (Downley, H Wycombe), Derek Coe (Borehamw
Tuesday 17th April 2007 (7:30) – att 24
Southern Youth League (East)
STAINES TOWN Youths / KC Academy ...................... (2) 2
EPSOM & EWELL Youths ........................................... (0) 1
Staines totally dominated this game for 75 minutes, but, largely due to the heroics of Epsom ‘keeper Alex Sale, they only scored two, and when Reuben Laurado scored a 76+th min breakaway for the visitors, Staines ended up having to cling on for the points. The first half belonged to Dominic Dwyer, who scored great goals on 30 and 37 minutes, and had two earlier efforts superbly saved and cleared off the line. Goal no 1 was built on Kieran Kiffin's delivery, from which Dwyer beat 2 man and fired in off the post. He got his second with a super volley, after Epsom failed to clear Marren’s free kick. There were also strong penalty claims, and a goal disallowed when Rowe was adjudged to have shoved a defender before heading home. In the second half, Kiffin shot a fraction over the bar, and Dwyer somehow managed to his the same post twice with a single shot, with the unwitting assistance of the ‘keeper’s back. When Sale failed to hold A Meggie shot, Dwyer seemed sure to complete his hat-trick, but the ‘keeper recovered to save magnificently. There was just one caution, Epsom’s Laurado for dissent after fouling Rowe (59m).
Staines – Davies, Teuten, Gurney, Rowe, Blake ©, Michael Marren, White, Windsor, Dwyer, Meggie (Taylor 86), K Kiffin (Farrell 76-); unused H Draper, Ricardo Kimfumu.
Epsom – Alex Sale, Paul Cox, Sam Braggins, Alfred Akiotou ©, Matt Kedoo, Ivan Dos Santos, James Kelly (Aaron Williams 77), Alex Bailey (Mark Frimpong HT), James Andy (Jayden Salfarlie 62), Reuben Laurado, Zach Powell; unused Alwyn Dixon, Omar Darweesh.
Ref – Dave Waller (Horley, Surrey); ARs Peter Tutt (Morden), Daniel Dodd (Walton-on-Thames)
FINE WIN
Sun 15 April 2007 (10.45 at Wheatsheaf Lane) – friendly
STAINES TOWN VETS 3 IMPERIAL COLLEGE 0
A fine win, with goals from Dawber, Lewis and Venturini.
Swans - Danny O'Shea sr, Alan Gane, Kevin McDonagh, Des Alderson, Nathan Wharf, Steve Lewis, Chris Wainwright, Joe O Shea, Vinnie Reid, Mark Dawber, Arnie Venturini, sub Kevin Fidler.
Monday 16th April 2007 (3pm) – Ryman League Premier Division – Official Att 179
HENDON (1) 1
Wayne O’Sullivan 6m
STAINES TOWN (0) 1
Howard Newton 48m
By Steve Parsons.
Staines made another ‘final’ visit to Hendon’s historic Claremont Road ground on a mild but breezy Monday night, to contest a somewhat academic League fixture. The chances of Hendon being relegated were extremely narrow after the weekend results, and they perhaps entertained ambitions of overhauling their Middlesex rivals. On a flat but very dry surface, Staines attacked the clubhouse / entrance end in the first half, sporting two former Hendon players – Dave Sargent and Chris Robinson (who was loaned to them last month). Jordan Kiffin had a family commitment in Jamaica, and so his place went to Hussein Isa, with Ali Chaaban travelling but still sidelined with a knee injury that will probably bring his super season to a premature close – as is the case with Gordon and McDonald. The bench had an unusual look to it, and it included Gianluca ‘Pally’ Palladino (recently signed from Barnet) and Academy player Tim Pitt (who has just completed a 5 week suspension, and who played at Hendon in the earlier cup tie. None of the Staines subs came on, but Hendon did bring on one of the two ex-Swans on their bench – Ross Pickett joining the fray, but not Danny Rouco. Dean Green was absent through injury and suspension, and with a new job as a Butlin’s redcoat starting this week, his season, too, has ended early.
Staines made a bright start, and if someone could have turned in Dave Sargent’s driven cross in the first half minute, there is no telling what might have happened. However, They were quickly punished on just 6 minutes, when a neat move set James Burgess away on the right, and he drove in a cross which was powerfully headed home by Wayne O’Sullivan. Staines tried to respond, but both Howard Newton and Mark Nwokeji fell foul of a well drilled offside trap in a frustrating half, which ended with Hendon perhaps worth their slender lead.
The scores were levelled after just 3 minutes of the second half, Staines attacking in numbers, and André Scarlett combining well with Nwokeji, who drove in a low centre which Howard Newton gratefully sidefooted beyond the stranded Richard Wilmot. Hendon went forward from the kick off, and almost regained the lead when skipper James Parker headed against James Courtnage’s cross bar. However, Staines were the stronger side throughout the second half, and Isa might have done better with a close range shot which he put over on 65 minutes. Three minutes later, a well worked free kick move, following a foul on Robinson, led to Adam Thompson finding the net, but he was offside. The last 10 minutes saw as much goalmouth action as perhaps the rest of the game put together, beginning with a point-blank save from Courtnage after Rakatahr Hudson had put the impressive Belal Aiteouakrim through. Staines immediately won – and quickly took a free kick – which led to Isa forcing a similar save from Wilmot, only for Hendon to counterattack at speed through O’Sullivan, whose shot just cleared the bar. Then Jake Newton made a rangy run upfield and fed Nwokeji, who fired into the side netting. The game ended level, which was probably a fair reflection of the 90 minutes.
Staines: Courtnage; J Newton, Sargent, Thompson, Flitter ©, Robinson, K Warner, Scarlett, Isa, Nwokeji, H Newton; unused subs Allaway (gk), Palladino, Pitt, Harrison, Tallentire.
Hendon: Wilmot, O’Sullivan, Vargas, Leach, Parker ©, Busby, D Haule, Burgess, Ake (Pickett 83), Hudson, Aiteouakrim; unused Archer, Rose, Morris, Rouco.
R: Paul Toyer (Luton); ARs Robert Trinder & John Wynne (both Dunstable).
Sunday 15th April 2007 (2·35pm) – att 15
Greater London Women’s League, Division One
HILLINGDON BOROUGH Women (0) 1
STAINES TOWN Women (2) 5
Staines moved to the top of the table for the first time this season, and to within one point of a second successive title and promotion, by overcoming stiff opposition in the shape of Hillingdon on Sunday. This was despite several players suffering with a bug, and Jo Ginger ruled out with a calf strain. The match, played on the main pitch at the Middlesex Stadium, was delayed 35 minutes due to an over-running u16 game beforehand, and the players lined up in blistering heat. Staines shaded the opening exchanges, but it was not until the 17th minute that they relieved the tension by going ahead, Rachel Fell playing a good through ball for Sam Oliver to run onto, and fire into the bottom corner to end her ‘goal drought’. Oliver made it 2-0 on 31 mins when she powerfully headed in a Fell cross, and then forced a good save from ’keeper Mason in a rousing spell for the visitors late in the half. Mason also forced Jenni Friar wide in a promising situation; Georgie Giddings’ long shot went inches wide, and even defensive stalwart Kate Davies came up and hit the side netting. The second half was only a minute old when Lucy McNeil’s through ball picked out Anne Hutchinson, and she guided a shot into the bottom corner for her first goal for the club. At the other end, Sarah Atkin went just wide, but on 63 minutes, Oliver well and truly ended her recent goal-drought by completing her hat-trick with a shot from close range. She was applauded off soon afterwards, but her replacement in attack, Karrin French-Wollen (normally a goalkeeper) bravely headed home a Sam Spong cross to bag her first Staines goal on 78 mins. Just before, Hannah Murphy had been unlucky when a lofted shot landed on the roof of the net. Hillingdon’s XI had toiled hard in the sun all afternoon, and they gained some reward when one of their infrequent attacks ended with Leah Ambridge’s near post cross being turned in by Rebecca Poulton 5 minutes from time.
Staines – 1 Sarah Clutterbuck, 2 Kate Davies ©, 3 Lynsey York, 4 Jenni Friar (12 Sam Spong 54), 5 Sharon Heaven, 6 Laura Spooner, 7 Lucy McNeil, 8 Georgie Giddings, 9 Anne Hutchinson (16 Hannah Murphy 54), 10 Sam Oliver (14 Karrin French-Wollen 64), 11 Rachel Fell; unused 15 Angela Tunnicliffe (not present), 17 Kate Cook.
Hillingdon – 1 Debbie Mason, 2 Leah Ambridge, 3 Somerset Hughes, 5 Sophie Taylor, 8 Janni Lapinkangas, 6 Sarah Atkin ©, 7 Caroline Partridge, 9 Sarah Peddle, 4 Hayley Thomas, 10 Rebecca Poulton, 11 Robyn Goodwin; no subs.
Ref – Andy Kowalski (Ruislip); ARs Pete Friar (STFC / Camberley), Sarah Miller (HBFC), the latter doing her duty barefoot throughout!
HAMPTON HOODOO STRIKES 2 MINS FROM TIME
Saturday 14th April 2007 (3pm) – Ryman League Premier Division – Att 404
STAINES TOWN (0) 2
Jordan Kiffin 49m, Kevin Warner 65m
HAMPTON & RICHMOND BOROUGH (0) 2
Lawrence Yaku 78m, Dean Wells 88+m
By Steve Parsons.
A hot day at Wheatsheaf Lane brought these two local rivals head to head, with Staines looking to end a run of 5 successive defeats by their Middlesex neighbours – not to mention the morning’s 4-0 reverse in the Supporters’ game staged at Staines Lammas FC! For Hampton, the concern was more immediate, as they are still gunning for the title. Steve Cordery again had to shuffle his side, as Ali Chaaban’s knee problem ruled him out, while Gareth Risbridger remained sidelined owing to the hamstring injury he picked up while keeping goal at Tonbridge. With Shaun Allaway suspended, James Courtnage retained the gloves, but André Scarlett returned from his suspension, and Howard Newton made an unexpected return from a knee injury. Dean Thomas picked up an injury last week, and Jordan Kiffin started, with fellow Academy player Bryan Harrison this time on the bench. As well as their Manager, Staines s fielded players who used to play for Hampton – Courtnage, Matt Flitter, Jake Newton, Chris Robinson, and sub Craig Maskell; meanwhile, Matt Lovett, Marcello Fernandes and Stuart Lake had moved in the opposite direction. The afternoon was hot and sunny, the pitch baked dry, and Staines attacked the houses end in the first half.
Staines had a major escape after only 40 seconds, when Hampton’s leading marksman Ian Hodges fired against the crossbar, with Ryan Lake’s follow-up safely gathered by Courtnage. Thwe visitors exerted lots of pressure, but some of it came from an unexpected quarter when, after Courtnage had punched out R Lake’s 9th minute corner, he then had to backpedal to touch a high, looping ball over the bar after Scarlett’s attempted clearance from 25 yards out went badly wrong! Staines started to show signs of promise when Dave Sargent delivered a telling ball into the box, but no one was there to meet it, and The Beavers were quickly back on the attack when Robinson was penalised, and Barrie Matthews tested Courtnage with a curling free kick. There was another escape for Staines as Lawrence Yaku saw a 40th minute shot grabbed on the goal line by Courtnage.
The second half was only 4 minutes old when Staines took the lead. A long ball was claimed by Mark Nwokeji, who unleashed a good shot which Lovett parried, but Jordan Kiffin was rewarded for following up as he poached his first League goal for the club. Hampton tried to get back on terms, and Flitter picked up a caution for a mis-timed challenge on the flying Yaku in a dangerous position. They introduced the pacy Elliott Frost, who was involved in some of their best moves. But 15 minutes after the first goal, and somewhat against the run of play, Kevin Warner doubled Swans’ lead. Kiffin put Nwokeji away on the right, and he ghosted past his marker and crossed for Warner to arrive in space and fire into the roof of the net from 10 yards. But Staines knew from experience – including that of the reverse fixture – that Hampton are never more dangerous than when chasing the game. Their fight back began in earnest on 78 minutes when Lawrence Yaku for once got the better of Flitter, and stretched out a foot to divert the ball shoulder high beyond Courtnage. As time ran out, Scarlett was yellow carded for dissent following a sequence of niggling fouls, then Hampton introduced Inns for the frustrated Stuart Lake, while Staines replaced the tiring Howard Newton (playing his first game since Boxing Day) and striker Kiffin with the experienced Maskell and midfielder Harrison. However, the pressure was just too much, and Hampton netted the equaliser on 88 minutes, when Courtnage half cleared a disputed corner, but Dean Wells followed up to smash the ball in from 12 yards, via a deflection from Adam Thompson. Hampton went in search of the winner, but Staines held firm for the remaining time, which included 5 minutes of stoppage time, to claim a share of the points. It strengthens their 12th place, and does not significantly weaken Hampton’s title hopes which, because of games in hand, is theirs to win or lose.
Staines: Courtnage; J Newton, Sargent, Thompson, Flitter ©, Robinson, K Warner, Scarlett, H Newton (Maskell 82), Nwokeji, J Kiffin (Harrison 88-); unused subs Campbell, McGlashan, T Phillips (gk).
Hampton: Lovett, Harper, R Lake, Fernandes, Paris (Harris 67), Wells ©, S Lake (Inns 88-), Yaku, Hodges, Matthews (Frost 54), McIntosh; unused Bartley, Asombang.
R: C Williams; ARs G Thorley, C Wicks.
SUPPORTER'S TEAM UNLUCKY IN FIRST EVER MATCH
STAINES TOWN SUPPORTERS 0
HAMPTON & RICHMOND BOROUGH SUPPORTERS 4 Played at Staines Lammas FC Home Att. 4
By Rob Gunning.
Staines Town Supporters took on their counterparts from our local rivals in a hot and sunny Staines Llamas ground on Saturday morning, hours before the two Ryman teams went head to head in a Ryman league clash. Pitch conditions were rock hard and dusty in complete contrast to the postponed game from a few weeks ago when the original fixture at Imber Court was called off as the pitch resembled a lake. Fourteen supporters turned out for Staines which was a pretty good effort considering the reasonably short notice. Hampton supporters play together regularly whereas this was the first time any of us had ever played together and some, like yours truly, had not played that many 11-a-side games in the last few years. Lack of goalkeeper options meant Neil played in goal, leading the team from the back. The opening ten minutes saw Staines keeping the majority of possession and pressing the Hampton backline. However, after approximately ten minutes a long ball was played out to the Hampton strikers and one of them hit a good shot into the net. A second goal for Hampton arrived after about twenty minutes when Neil got his fingers to a shot which hit the underside of the bar and went in. Stuart Moore managed to make a goalline block with his body (it looked suspiciously like his backside that kept the ball out) after about half an hour to keep the scoreline to 2-0. However, this scoreline was not to last long as another long ball through the middle was controlled by a Hampton striker who just managed to keep himself onside before firing home. A 3-0 halftime scored appeared to flatter the away side who appeared to copy their Ryman heroes with a more direct style of play. Staines in turn copied their heroes with a neat passing game that lacked composure in front of goal. Some changes were made in the second half so that everyone could get a game. Staines played well in the second half and had a lot of possession around the Hampton box only to be thwarted by poor finishing or good goalkeeping from the Hampton keeper. The mini-massive did well defensively which stopped the threat of the long ball from Hampton. Both sides had chances but only one goal was scored in the second half, in controversial circumstances. A ball was played through to a Hampton player on the right who did well before setting up a fellow striker to slot into the empty net from a suspiciously offside position. Unfortunately for Staines the assistant referee (who should remain nameless but is known to run a certain Staines Town website) was not even looking due to the distractions of Roy ‘The best player Staines ever had’ Roberts and the goal was given. In the last minute Neil Digby went up for a Staines corner hoping to do a ‘Jimmy Glass’ but possession was lost and Hampton broke. As at least three Hampton players bore down on the open Staines goal the man in possession rather greedily went for glory himself and ballooned the shot over the goal, much to the obvious annoyance of his team mates. It was a good game for Staines and the score was not a true reflection of the game. We played well for a scratch team and will be looking for future games to improve.
Staines Supporters: Mark Digby, Neil Digby, Sean Caldwell, Stuart Moore, Gary Jupp, Charlie Driver, Paul Fleckney, Matt Hein, Antony Fairman, Colin Mansbridge, Daniel Humphrey, Frankie Driver, Rob Gunning, Laurence Wakefield.
Wednesday 11th April 2007 (8pm) – att 44
Westview Women’s Cup, Semi-Final
ARLESEY TOWN Women (0) 1
STAINES TOWN Women (2) 3
A long trip to Bedfordshire by minibus meant that KO was delayed by 15 minutes, but it did not spoil a great evening’s entertainment with high-quality displays by both teams. Arlesey made a bright start, but Staines quickly got on top, with a couple of shots going just over. On 15 minutes, a home raid was broken down and Staines raced upfield: Baker retained possession on the edge of the box and hit a ferocious shot, which 'keeper Fage could only help into her own goal. Rachel Fell’s performance was positively Dawber-eqsue, and she thoroughly deserved her 38th minute goal, finishing superbly just under the bar after good approach work by Oliver. Fell returned the compliment 4 mins later, but Oliver’s bad luck in front of goal continued as she fired over. Arlesey, of the Eastern Regional League Div 1 West (on a par with Staines), began the second half with great vigour, and although Friar laid on another half chance for Oliver, it was the home side who were more threatening. Clutterbuck saved bravely at the feet of Baldwin, but was beaten on 55 minutes when she made a fine punched save from Walker’s shot, only for the prone Katie Baldwin to hook the ball back past her. However, Staines nerves were settled once more when Amy Baker received a Fell through ball and flashed her 64th minute shot against the post from where it rebounded in. Both Baker and Arlesey’s Tayler later limped out of the fray, and Smit fired just too high for Arlesey in stoppage time, but Staines had given a performance deserving of a place in the final.
Staines – 1 Sarah Clutterbuck, 2 Kate Davies ©, 3 Lynsey York, 5 Sharon Heaven, 6 Laura Spooner, 7 Sarah Bell (12 Tasha Lodder 90), 8 Jenni Friar, 9 Amy Baker (15 Karrin French-Wollen 86), 10 Sam Oliver, 11 Rachel Fell; unused 14 Kate Cook.
Arlesey – 1 Amie Fage, 5 Maria Milling (10 Axelle Courlander 85), 3 Sarah Tayler (19 Kayleigh Saunders 65), 21 Annemieker Smit, 14 Amy Ruck, 6 Karen Walker-Clark ©, 7 Karen Lee, 12 Sarah Smith (18 Mia-Rose Price 70), 9 Kim Burton, 16 Libby Bennett, 11 Katie Baldwin.
Ref – Stephen O’Connor; ARs Nathan David, Gary G Wilson (St Neots, Cambs).
RESSIES LOOK TO FINISH RUNNERS UP
Wednesday 11th April 2007 (7:45pm)
Capital League (Western Division) – att 28.
STAINES TOWN Reserves ........................................... (2) 2
SALISBURY CITY Reserves ....................................... (1) 2
Staines were not on top form for their final home league game, but still earned a point from a youthful Salisbury side in a game which featured four top-drawer goals. Jordan Kiffin’s great strike, slightly against the run of play on 10 minutes started the ball rolling, but City levelled with a 25-yarder 10 mins later, and Staines were happy to go in all square. An even better goal gave Salisbury a 57th min lead, but Kiffin netted one of the goals of the season on 79 mins. Trent Phillips came on in goal to steady his ship, duly keeping a clean sheet, with Danny Fisher moving to an outfield position, and Staines did enough to claim a point which consolidates their 2nd place in the table.
Staines – Fisher; Elliot Blake, Daniel Gurney, Justin Fevrier ©, Richard Orlu, Jack Tallentire, Adam Gerding (Francis Luke 53), Jon Docker, J Kiffin, Aston Ventour (Trent Phillips 80, went in goal), Jermaine McGlashan; unused Paul Ellis, Chris Robinson, Chris Wainwright.
Ref: Carl Henry (Desborough, Northants); ARs: John Roffey (Ashford, Kent), Dennis Elkins (Hemel Hempstead).
Fri 13 April - Westview Youth Cup Round 3 - att 84
WORTHING YOUTHS 3 STAINES TOWN YOUTHS 1
A long trip to the south coast went unrewarded, as Staines missed out on a quarter-final visit to Kingstonian. With Daniel Meggie having a goal disallowed in the 2nd minute, not much seemed to go right for the visitors, as they dominated the opening exchanges, but conceded a soft goal to Ash Rees on 20 minutes, followed by a well struck Jamie Brotherton goal on 38 mins. Rees bagged his second 13 minutes into the second half, and it was left to Quiny Rowe to volley Staines' injury time consolation, following a Nick White corner.
Sun 15th April - Greater London Women's League Division 1
HILLINGDON BOROUGH WOMEN 1 STAINES TOWN WOMEN 5
Against tricky opposition on a sweletring afternoon at the Middlesex Stadium, Staines took a big step towards a second successive title, having won Division 2 last term. Sam Oliver put her recent goal drought behind her to bag a well taken hat-trick. Both Anne Hutchinson and Karrin French-Wollen added their first goals for the club, before Rebecca Poulton scored Hillingdon's late consolation.
Staines now need one point from their two remaining league games - both at home - but these are against the awkward Thurrock & Tilbury next Sunday, and then a probable midweek clash with the only club who can deny them, Luton Town.
SOLID PERFORMANCE AGAINST DONS
Easter Monday 9th April 2007 (3pm) – Ryman League Premier Division
A.F.C. WIMBLEDON (1) 1
Luke Garrard 3m
STAINES TOWN (0) 1 By Steve Parsons.
Adam Thompson 69m
Steve Cordery was able to restore Adam Thompson and Ali Chaaban to the starting XI after niggling injuries, and Dean Thomas following a more painfully bruised foot, but retained the rookies Bryan Harrison and Chris Robinson for the formidable challenge of a visit to AFC Wimbledon. With their points deduction slashed to just 3, AFC are now back on track for at least a play-off place, and a huge holiday crowd of 3002 turned out to cheer them on. Dave Sargent lined up for Staines against his old club, but Shroot was absent from the AFC side, who did, however, welcome back Richard Butler from injury, in a star-studded team, which also included the highly regarded Richard Jolly. Supporters in the main stand saw Staines play from left to right (towards the Tempest end), on a hot, sunny day, on a pitch in rather dry and threadbare condition.
Nwokeji tried an early shot, but if five games without a win had taken its toll on Staines’ confidence levels, this was not helped by the home side moving majestically into the lead after just 2? minutes, Luke Garrard rounding off their first attack with a powerful far post header to Jolly’s deep cross from the right. The Wombles threatened to strangle the game at birth, with both Jolly and Cook sending efforts just over, and Courtnage needing to be at his best to save two fine Jolly efforts, the first a header from a corner, and the second a powerful drive. Everything seemed to be going against Swans, as young Harrison picked up a booking for an innocuous looking foul which even his opponent, Daly, tried to defend to the referee, and then 4 minutes later, Warner was cautioned for a stiff challenge on Butler. With Garrard and Jolly driving the home side forward, Staines were restricted to a hopeful effort from Chaaban, as they did their best to retain a toe hold in the game. But in the final minute of the half, there were chances at each end – first Haswell’s 25 yard drive came back off Courtnage’s post, with the inspired Swans ‘keeper denying Butler on the rebound, and Thompson having to make a terrific tackle as Jolly bore down on goal. But then Warner created a half chance at the other end, but unfortunately the treacherous sandy conditions ruined it for him.
The sand came in to play again at the start of the second, half, as Courtnage failed to hold Garrard’s bobbling shot, and the ball came out to Butler, whose effort was cleared off the line by Flitter. But Staines slowly began to find their feet, with Chaaban thudding an 18 yard effort into the chest of Masters, and Nwokeji finding space to exploit his pace. Harrison was spoken to for another foul, and was quickly withdrawn to make way for Younghusband, while Butler’s return in Dons colours was cut short by a painful ankle injury, and he was stretchered off after a collision with Thompson. His replacement, Ferguson, wasted a good chance moments after coming on, as he placed the ball wide after breaking up a promising Staines attack and broke swiftly. The home side started to get frustrated, and gave away a succession of free kicks, and Staines compounded their unease by snatching a 69th minute equaliser, following a long throw by Thomas. At the back post, Nwokeji played the ball back across the goal, Lorraine failed to clear, and Adam Thompson found a gap between two defenders from close range, for only his second goal for the club. Thomas then sustained an injury, and gave way to the experienced Maskell, whose composure was central to his side’s resistance to the Wimbledon reply. Ferguson shot just wide, Warner cleared a Haswell corner from under his bar, and the home side – or rather, their supporters, mounted a succession of appeals for penalties which left Mr Lennard unimpressed. The last 10 minutes were the most exciting of the game, as the teams traded corner kicks, and Courtnage pulled off two more good saves from Jolly. Maskell set up a chance which Chaaban underhit, and Nwokeji fired just over following an incisive pass through the middle by Younghusband. Kiffin came on and almost capitalised on a poor kick by Masters, but he too fell into the sand trap. Right at the end of a nailbiting 6? minutes of stoppage time, Lorraine headed wide following Wimbledon’s final corner, and Staines secured a hard earned point which lifted them a place to 12th.
Staines: Courtnage; J Newton, Sargent, Thompson, Flitter ©, Robinson, K Warner, Harrison (Younghusband 57), Thomas (Maskell 73), Nwokeji, Chaaban (J Kiffin 90); unused subs Isa, Ellis.
AFC: Masters, Sweeney, Haswell, Daly, Lorraine, Howard, Darlington ©, Garrard, R Butler (Ferguson 72), Jolly, Cook (Peters 78); unused Little (gk), S Butler, Wales.
R: H Lennard (Eastbourne); ARs M Ford, A Woodruff; Official Att 3002.
Saturday 7th April 2007 (3pm) – Ryman League Premier Division
STAINES TOWN (0) 0 BILLERICAY TOWN (1) 1 – Joe Flack 43m
By Steve Parsons.
Entertainment = 3/5 Man of the Match = Chris Robinson (Staines) Att 342.
Staines competed hard with title chasing Billericay on a warm afternoon, and manager Steve Cordery can be pleased with his new-look side, which included 4 youngsters with just one previous League start between them. The visitors always looked the more threatening team, and Dave Wareham and Rikki Burbidge both had good chances early on. However, young Jordan Kiffin and Mark Nwokeji also tested the ‘keeper at the other end, before Billericay came strong again, with Dave Sargent clearing a Chris Whelpdale effort off the line, and Joe Flack hitting the bar on the rebound. Staines ‘keeper James Courtnage had a good game, denying Flack at close range, and later hanging on to a clever effort by Dave Wareham. However, he was beaten 2 minutes before the interval, when Flack received a pass, and expertly spun away from his marker before firing home from 10 yards. Kiffin almost levelled with the last kick of the first half, but his close range effort cleared the bar by inches. Staines chances after the break were restricted to a single Nwokeji shot, but they also contained Billericay, who capably collected the three points. Unfortunately, the game was soured when referee Matt Downey issued Staines full-back Jake Newton with a second yellow card in the 88th minute.
STAINES - Courtnage, J Newton [SO 88m], Sargent, Ellis (Thompson 59), Flitter (c), Robinson, K Warner, Harrison (Isa 71), Younghusband (Chaaban 63), Nwokeji, J Kiffin. Unused - Elenge, Tallentire.
Milton Elenge is one of 3 young players signed on the eve of the deadline, from Barnet academy. He's an 18 yearold Congolese centre half, and is ex Welwyn Garden City, Maldon Town and Grays Athletic. The others were Christopher Doyle (17, c-forward) and Gianluca Palladino (18, midfield).
Staines Town's Kingston College Academy U19 side have won their league - the English Colleges' FA League South East Region, without kicking a ball this week ( they finished their fixtures the week before), as a result of their only challengers, Stanmore, losing 3-0 to mid Kent. Stanmore had needed to take mximum points from their 3 remaining games.
Sunday 1st April 2007 (10.45am at Wheatsheaf Lane) - Friendly
STAINES TOWN VETS 3 MEADHURST 3
Staines came back from 3-0 down to snatch a draw against the BP sport & social club on Sunday morning. Steve Beeks started the comeback, and then they were helped by a bizarre own goal, before Roy Gadsby grabbed the equaliser 5 minutes from time.
Sunday 1st April 2007 (11am) – att 35
Greater London Women’s Football League Division One
LUTON TOWN LFC II ................................................. (0) 1
STAINES TOWN Women ............................................. (0) 1
The fixture mired in controversy was eventually scheduled – against Staines’ wishes – for the morning at Luton’s Stockwood Park stadium, having been taken away from Wheatsheaf Park, and played early to accommodate a Luton LFC 1st XI cup tie which did not in the end take place. Staines had all the early pressure, forcing a corner after just 4 minutes. After 8 minutes, Georgie Giddings marked her return by firing just wide, but Luton responded with Day firing just off target soon afterwards, and then having a good spell. However, Staines responded with another near thing from Giddings, and then zipped a corner kick right across the face of goal. But Luton were still dangerous, and Clutterbuck had to pull off a flying save to repel Moody’s 24th min shot. Staines gained the ascendancy again towards the end of the half, with a mazy dribble by Fell ending in her shooting just over, and Oliver seeing a shot well saved. Staines survived a Day shot which hit the bar, but Staines raced down the right and forced a corner, which was taken by Fell and powerfully headed home by Sharon Heaven on 40 mins. Friar nearly doubled the lead in stoppage time, but her shot flew just wide. Luton applied plenty of pressure after the break, forcing numerous corners, finsing the side nettig, and Speed seeing a shot cleared off the line. The equaliser came on 77 mins when Emma Leete netted a great shot from 20 metres out. Staines held firm at the end to keep the title hopes very much alive, but Luton and Brentford will certainly have their eyes on the prize too. Staines’ former Club Secretary kindly stepped in with the paperwork for this match.
Staines – 1 Sarah Clutterbuck, 2 Kate Davies ©, 3 Jo Ginger (14 Charlie Lourenco 61), 4 Sam Spong, 5 Sharon Heaven, 6 Sarah Bell, 7 Georgie Giddings, 8 Lucy McNeil, 9 Jenni Friar, 10 Sam Oliver (15 Nikki Meades 79), 11 Rachel Fell; unused 12 Karrin French-Wollen, 16 Tasha Lodder.
Luton – 1 Nikki Baker, 27 Steff Cowell, 16 Nat Forbes, 21 S Hawkins, 3 R Clark, 19 Tamzine Neale, 5 Emma Leete, 13 Micky Taylor, 22 Laura Day (18 Rebecca Dimmock 75), 11 V Moody, 14 Nina Hale (12 Shelley Miller 79); unused 10 J Speed, 2 B Hedges, - Amy Summerfield.
Ref Ms T Bradley; ARs Pete Friar (STFC/Camberley) & H Machin (LTFC).
Tuesday 3rd April 2007 (7:30pm)
Capital League (Western Division) – att 27
STAINES TOWN Reserves ........................................... (2) 3
MAIDENHEAD UNITED Reserves ............................ (1) 2
Staines kept up the pressure in 2nd place in the Capital League (West), with this hard-earned win over an unusual Maidenhead line-up at blustery Wheatsheaf Park on Tuesday. The Magpies included a smattering of First Teamers, but also started with 1st XI management pairing of Hippolyte and Brown, as well as former Swans junior, Jake Jenkins. Staines gave club débuts to Jon Docker (trialist from Northampton Town, who was previously playing in Holland with RKC Waalwijk), and Palladino, who signed 1st XI forms last week. It was the visitors who took the lead when Dean Fenton bundled the ball in following a 13th min corner. However, Staines responded 4 mins later, as Kiffin received a Robinson throw and picked out Gianluca Palladino with a long diagonal pass, the newcomer then controlled well and fired past Preddie. Jordan Kiffin made it 2-1 on 32 mins, receiving from Bryan Harrison out on the left, taking on the full back, and expertly dispatching the ball into the top corner from a tight angle. Staines moved into a 3-1 lead just 4 mins into the second half, when a defender’s pass went astray, and Aston Ventour darted in, confidently squeezing a shot through Preddie’s legs. However, Maidenhead ensured that the game remained a close contest, as Steven Hughes netted their second on 59 mins. But there were no further goals, and Staines ran out 3-2 victors.
Staines – Shaun Allaway; Chris Robinson ©, Jermaine McGlashan, Justin Fevrier, Paul Ellis (Richard Orlu HT), Bryan Harrison (James Younghusband 57), Richard Burton, Jon Docker, Jordan Kiffin (Hussein Isa 64), Aston Ventour, Gianluca Palladino; unused subs Francis Luke, Craig Masham.
Maidenhead – Delroy Preddie ©; Will Bratt, Darren Carhill, Jake Jenkins, Mark Smith (Sami Hached HT), Abdul Osman, Dean Fenton, Dereck Brown (Romell Gumbs), Johnson Hippolyte (Tino Siragasa), Steven Hughes, Steve McNamara; unused subs Gavin Carty, Jermaine Gumbs.
Ref: Tony Aslam (Shepherd’s Bush); ARs John Faithfull (Loughton), Derek Coe (Borehamwood).