| BEST HOME PERFORMANCE SO FAR FOR SWANS Saturday 28th October 2006 (3·00pm) – Ryman League, Premier Division STAINES TOWN (1) 3 CARSHALTON ATHLETIC (0) 1 By Steve Parsons. Staines emerged from a couple of disappointing showings to secure three points against Carshalton, and – just as importantly – to do so in a thoroughly deserved style. Jon McDonald (injured), Gareth Risbridger and Marien Ifura were left out, and Steve Cordery recalled Howard and Jake Newton and Dean Thomas. The bench had an unfamiliar look about it, with Neil Lampton just having signed from Sutton United on Wednesday, and the inclusion of two ‘rookie’ Academy products – Chris Robinson and Jordan Kiffin – who have so far this season been assisting neighbours Staines Lammas. Lampton is a tall attacking midfielder, just turned 25, who has also played for Walton & Hersham. Matt Flitter was still absent, having aggravated his back injury in training. The Robins fielded ex-Swan Paul Seuke in goal, and one who got away, Luke Fontana, ex of the Academy just as it came to Staines, and who was just back from injury. The weather was mild, the pitch excellent, and Staines attacked the houses end in the first half. The first exchanges gave Swans plenty to think about, as Athletic lived up to their name, looking strong and direct down the middle. Craig Dundas got off an early shot, abetted by their new loan-signing from Woking, Jerome Maledon. But on 8 minutes, Mark Nwokeji first forced Seuke into a good save after getting away on the left, and then blazed a fine chance wide of the mark as the corner came across. Nwokeji threatened again, before Carshalton were gifted an opening: Allaway took a quick free kick, but the ball struck Fontana as he trotted away, and the home side were forced into some hastily improvised defending. They threatened again a couple of minutes later, when Mark Marshall’s free kick was headed onto the cross bar by Adrian Toppin, and on 26 minutes, André Scarlett received a yellow card for tripping the advancing Marshall. However, it was a foul on the Staines captain 7 minutes later which led indirectly to the opening goal. Peter Smith delivered a good long ball to Ali Chaaban – showing much livelier form since the end of his Ramadan fast – and although Seuke parried the ball out, Dean Thomas kept it in play and beat two defenders before crossing back in for Chaaban, who in turn delivered a powerful drive into the top corner from the edge of the box. One or two supporters were momentarily confused as the ball struck the net supports and flew back into play, but there was no doubt that it had gone in. On 35 minutes, a foul on Toppin gave Marshall another free kick, but Sean Allaway was equal to his well struck effort. Chaaban then got booked for dissent after protesting that he had been fouled. Chaaban and H Newton saw quick fire efforts blocked by Seuke, but Warner put the ball back into the danger area, only for Seuke once again to deny Chaaban. The Newtons and Chaaban created a fine move in first half stoppage time, but Warner’s low drive took a deflection and went just wide. The visitors substituted the injured Toppin at half time, but their position was worsened less than a minute after the restart. Howard Newton won a high ball and crossed to Mark Nwokeji, who planted his header firmly under the diving form of Seuke to make it 2-0. Staines were now well on top, and despite Fontana forcing a save and Carshalton making another quick pair of substitutions to try to turn things around, it was the home side who pressed home their advantage to take a three goal lead for the first time in a League game since March. Colin Hartburn tripped Nwokeji on the edge of the 6 yard box, and referee Lee Collins had no hesitation in awarding a penalty, from which Chaaban scored on 62 minutes. Only a super save from Seuke denied Chaaban a hat-trick 4 minutes later, and he had a further chance late on when a shot cannoned off a defender and had to be tipped over the bar. However, Carshalton did pull one back on 69 minutes, Danny Boxall’s free kick being helped on by Dundas for sub Sean Rivers to stab in from close range. The visitors enjoyed a resurgence, but Staines came through it unscathed, and with Nwokeji ratting the woodwork from a Chaaban cross, and Lampton making his début appearance, they ended the game in the ascendancy, and moved up a place to 14th. Staines: Allaway, Smith, Thomas, Sargent, Charles, Scarlett ©, K Warner, H Newton (Lampton 82), J Newton, Nwokeji, Chaaban; unused: Maskell, J Kiffin, Robinson, Courtnage (gk). Carshalton: Seuke, Hartburn, Boxall, Graves ©, Cartledge, Maledon (Howard 60), Marshall, Toppin (Drewitt HT), Dundas, Fontana (Rivers 60), Jabbie; unused Platel, Niermann. Ref – LM Collins (Aldershot), ARs M Argile (Guildford), Andrew J Roberts (Aldershot). Official att 215.
FEISTY CUP TIE Wednesday 25th October 2006 (7:30pm) – att 48 FA Youth Cup sponsored by E.On, Third Qualifying Round [FA match no 22] HARROW BOROUGH Youths .................................... (0) 4 STAINES TOWN Youths / KC Academy ...................... (3) 5 A quite remarkable and feisty cup tie ensued, once Staines had negotiated the bad traffic to arrive at Earlsmead. Nick White put the Swans ahead on 20 mins, but very soon afterwards, skipper Blake had to come off injured. Collopy in the Boro goal was lucky to escape with a yellow card when he upended Taylor when clean through just outside the box, as was one of his team mates for a headbut which thankfully did not connect. However, Staines pressure paid off when Dominic Dwyer doubled the lead 3 mins before half time. Two mins later, James McShane made it 3-0. The game seemed completely under control when Dwyer got his second just a minute into the second half. However, Harrow them embarked on a remarkable recovery, while Staines were guilty of taking their foot off the pedal. Sub Nathan Burland pulled one back (51m), and on the hour it was 4-2 thanks to Jonathan Constant. A Constant penalty allowed Harrow to get back to 4-3 on 72 mins, and just two minutes later they made it all square through Jason Watson. However, Staines secured victory on 78 mins, as Dwyer completed his hat-trick. There were some bad tempered reactions by a couple of the home players after the final whistle, but credit to the Staines players who did not get involved. Disappointingly, they have avoided League opposition in the 1st Round Proper, and entertain Woking, who defeated Staines in the SYL play-off final last term. Staines: Tommy Draper, Elliot Blake © (Gareth Teuten 24), Daniel Gurney, Quincy Rowe, Marvin Brown, Bryan Harrison (Joshua Brooks 78+), James McShane, Tom Windsor, Dominic Dwyer, Lyle Taylor (Daniel Meggie 65), Nicholas White; unused Marvin Farrell, Phillip Joseph. Harrow: Frankie Collopy, Jordan McCann, David Dooner (Omar Salem 82), Jason Watson, Jack Horsley, Trishan Burland, Daniel Awonusi, Jonathan Constant, Zacher Clotworthy, Nico Coleman, Abdikharim Muse (Nathan Burland 18); unused Omari Adjei-Dawkins, Adam De Silva, Chris Fardell (gk). Ref: David S Johnson (Edgware); ARs: James Cushen (Bedfont), James Savva (Hillingdon Hill).
PATCHED UP SIDE WIN Sunday 29th October 2006 (2:10pm) – at Pitch 4, Regents Park Sports Hub Greater London Women’s League Division One – Att 24 CAMDEN TOWN LFC ................................................ (0) 1 STAINES TOWN Women ............................................. (1) 3 Staines were without no fewer than 8 important players for this game at Regent’s Park, and played throughout with a bare 10, yet were still a little too strong for a hard working Camden. Kick-off was delayed 10 minutes, which suited ‘keeper Sarah Clutterbuck, who had dashed all the way from Bristol to central London to play. Staines came under pressure in the very first 15 seconds, but cleared upfield to set up a double chance for Friar and Fell. The Camden ‘keeper, Healey, made a brave save, and required length treatment for the painful knock she sustained on the knee in doing so. The game was just 6 minutes old when a break down the right was rounded off with a superb finish from Hannah Murphy, lashing her shot into the roof of the net. The visitors were on top for the rest of the half, with Friar and Fell both going close, and Lourenco seeing a fine drive well saved by Healey. Camden’s best chance came from a corner, which Heaven blocked on the line, and the follow-up rung against the post. Playing down the slope in the second half, Staines quickly gained the cushion of a second goal on 49 minutes. Rachel Fell won the ball in midfield, pushed forward strongly, and fired into the bottom corner. It was a vital goal, for as the home side brought on fresh legs, they started to get back into the game. Heaven had to make a desperate clearance over her own bar, but on 71 minutes, an inch perfect lob from Carol Brown finally beat Clutterbuck to make it 2-1. Staines, however, relieved the tension 8 minutes later, when Jenni Friar scored with a great left-footed shot from the edge of the box, going just under the bar, to seal a 3-1 win and three important points. Next week, they look forward to entertaining Hampton & Richmond Borough, former club of many of the current team. Staines: 1 Sarah Clutterbuck, 2 Kate Davies ©, 3 Charlie Lourenco, 4 Kate Cook, 5 Sharon Heaven, 6 Sam Spong, 7 Hannah Murphy, 8 Lynsey York, 9 Jenni Friar, 11 Rachel Fell; named sub 12 Shona McKay. Camden: 1 Karleigh Healey, 15 Carol Brown, 6 Mary Guest, 3 Gena Gulyas, 8 Melinda Johnson (11 Allison Forde 54), 7 Kath Wickens (16 Anne Tripp 62m), 12 Brittany Robbins, 4 Lori Murphy, 5 Susanna Twidale ©, 14 Carmel Clinton, 2 Clare Darley. Ref: Ian Gray (London); ARs Pete Friar (STFC / Camberley) & ? (CTFC).
VETS OFF Sun 29 Oct: Vets away v British Airways: called off (BA unable to raise a team).
LOCAL RIVALS BEATEN Tuesday 24th October 2006 (7:30pm) – at Bedfont FC Middlesex Premier Cup Round 2 [MCFA match 3] – Att 19 STAINES TOWN RESERVES ..................................... (1) 4 BEDFONT RESERVES ................................................ (0) 0 These two neighbouring clubs agreed to bring their county cup tie forward by 4 weeks, to fill a gap in the fixture lists, and Bedfont kindly agreed to host the game on Staines’ behalf on this chill evening. This was quite a test for Trent Phillips’ men, as – with an FA Youth Cup tie the next night, he called upon only one under 18 player – 16 year old Joseph – whilst competition rules restricted him to two recent 1st teamers – those slots going to Jake and Howard Newton. But it was his side of mostly 3rd year Academy products who dictated the pace, despite the early loss of Danny Fisher after a bump on the head. Bedfont’s hard working team squandered a couple of good chances, while Jordan Kiffin had one disallowed for a fractional offside, However, However, in first half stoppage time, Aston Ventour opened the scoring for Staines, controlling a Pitt cross well before shooting past Banks with his left foot. J Newton flashed one just wide from a Gerding cross, before Bedfont were required to bring on all three subs in quick succession due to injuries which occupied both their own physio’ and Swans’ Tash King. H Newton and a one-two with Kiffin combined to set up Ventour for a second goal (64 mins), before he too came off with a knock late on. Staines added a third on 85 mins when Jordan Kiffin controlled Gerding’s cross and fired home, and, two mins later, Swans bagged number four. The move was begun at the back by Courtnage, channelled through Pitt and McGlashan, and rounded off with a super Adam Gerding finish into the roof of the net. Staines will now entertain Ruislip Manor (whom they defeated in last year’s final) or Harefield in the quarter-final in the new year. After the game, Aston Ventour and Jermaine McGlashan were signed on Ryman forms. Staines: James Courtnage, Tim Pitt, Danny Fisher (Adrian Browne 15m), Justin Fevrier (Paul Deegan 70m), Chris Robinson, Adam Gerding, Jake Newton ©, Aston Ventour (Phil Joseph 80m), Jordan Kiffin, Jermaine McGlashan, Howard Newton; unused Trent Phillips (gk). Bedfont: Dean Banks, Carl McInerney, Alan Crane (Ashley Bailey 57), Paul Stewart, Ray Sherwood (Kris Culley 58), Lloyd Foote, Joel Owen, Richard Bond (Sean Perry 51), Jordon Khalil, Nathan Agbakoba, Jay D-Spence ©; unused Grzegorz Wegrzyn, Alex Bateman. Ref – James Cushen (Bedfont); ARs Robert Was & Jonathan Was (both Yiewsley).
ANOTHER FIRST ROUND DEFEAT Saturday 21st October 2006 (3·00pm) – FA Carlsberg Trophy – 1st Qualifying Round STAINES TOWN (0) 0 FOLKESTONE INVICTA (1) 1 By Steve Parsons. Staines were desperate for victory to kick-start their season, but although this was a ‘winnable’ home tie, but the Kent side – who last year defeated Staines in the FA Cup – have been on quite a run of good form lately, were able to field an unchanged side for the seventh successive game, and were by no means just making up the numbers. They included two former Staines men in their line-up: Ellis Remy and Samuel Kola Okikiolu. It was a somewhat unfamiliar line-up for the home team, however, with two players making their débuts having signed in the week, and a third – Marien Ifura – returning after a spell out of the game since the end of last season. The newcomers were Darius Charles, the loan signing from Brentford, and Peter Smith, the very experienced former Canvey Island, Chelmsford City defender, who has 150 games for Brighton, and a stint at Woking, on his CV. Gareth Risbridger returned to the starting line-up after a short loan at Bracknell (where he had also been playing alongside James Courtnage, now recovered from his knee problem). Adam Thompson’s foot injury was thankfully just heavy bruising, Jake Newton was rested, Michael Currie not involved, and Pete Castle has departed to Eastleigh. Wheatsheaf Lane was in excellent condition, having been fortunate to avoid the downpour that caused the game at Walton to be postponed, and Staines attacked the houses end in the first half of a bright but blustery afternoon. In the crowd were two septuagenarian players who appeared for the club in the 1940s. George Aspinall had helped dug the pipelines before Staines moved to Wheatsheaf Lane from Laleham Rec, but had never even visited the finished ground because he was then called into the Army, and from there moved home to Wigan (where he still lives) and joined Wigan Athletic. He last saw the side play in 1977 when they visited Morecambe. He was accompanied by Ron McBride, 77, who also played in 1948-51. Staines began solidly enough, with Mark Nwokeji surging past Okikiolu on the left, and seeing his powerful shot pushed round for a corner by Tony Kessell. André Scarlett and Ali Chaaban combined well to feed Jon McDonald, whose swerving shot went just wide, and the hard-working Kevin Warner also went close. Staines should have gone in front on 36 minutes, when Scarlett sent in a low cross which Kessell could not hold, spooning the ball out only as far as Risbridger. Owing to its awkward height, Risbridger was unable to get a clean contact on the ball, lifting it over Kessell from 6 yards, but without the power to beat defender Liam Friend’s goal line clearance. However, Invicta, who had previously threatened only intermittently through Steve Norman and Remy, snatched a decisive 42nd minute lead when McDonald conceded a free kick 35 yards out. It was sent in by Kevin Watson, accurately picking out skipper Adam Flanagan, who was allowed the fraction of space he needed to head powerfully back across the goal and in. Disappointingly, Staines showed little prospect of getting back into the game throughout a dour second half, despite the introduction of attack minded substitutes Howard Newton, Craig Maskell, and Clement James. Referee Chris Salt reached for his yellow card twice for Staines players – Warner and Scarlett for fouls on Watson and Everitt, doubtless in frustration at their side’s lack of penetration. Folkestone tied them up expertly, although they did have Watson cautioned right at the end for taking too long over a free kick. With just 8 minutes left, Staines broke away following a Folkestone corner, but Nwokeji sent his shot wide. The last half-chance came when Scarlett fed Howard Newton, but his angled shot was diverted for a corner by Saunders. And so it was the Kent side who advanced to the last 140 of this competition, while Staines fans went home unhappy. Staines: Allaway, Smith, McDonald (James 86m), Sargent (Maskell 67m), Charles, Scarlett ©, K Warner, Ifura, Risbridger (H Newton 57m), Nwokeji, Chaaban; unused: Thomas, Courtnage (gk). Folkestone: Kessell, Watson, Norman, Flanagan ©, Friend, Okikiolu, M Everitt, J Everitt, Remy (Matata 69m), Saunders, Jones (Neilson 85m); unused: Marsh, Stonebridge (gk). Ref – CJ Salt (W Sussex), ARs Erguven & Ellis (both Sussex). Official att 215.
PROGRESS IN YOUTH CUP Wed 18 Oct - St Margaretsbury 0 Staines Town 3 FA Youth Cup 2nd Qual Round Having been denied by half time abandonment due to a downpour when they led 1-0, Staines completed the job with style on a second visit. Two goals just before half time - a Harry Draper penalty and a strike from Elliot Blake - plus a 70th min own goal did the damage for Staines, who were well on top throughout. The home side missed a penalty late on, just as they had done in the earlier abandoned game. Staines now visit Harrow Borough in the final qualifying round, but both clubs will be disappointed to havbe missed out on a 'plum' draw in the 1st Round Proper. Staines or Harrow will entertain Woking or Worthing on 4th November.
WIN FOR COLLEGE/ACADEMY Wed 18 Oct - Kingston College / Staines Town defeated Chichester College in the English Colleges League by 5-0 at Cobham. Scorers were Dean Thomas, Aston Ventour, Jermaine McGlashan, Josh Brooks, and Jordan Kiffin.
VETS WIN Sun 22 October - Old Latymerians 1 Staines Town Vets 1 (friendly) Goalkeeper Martyn Latham was on the scoresheet for Staines, converting a penalty, and he also produced the save of the game at the other end.
REVENGE FOR WOMEN Sunday 22nd October 2006 (2pm) – Att 36 Greater London Women’s League Division One STAINES TOWN Women ............................................. (3) 4 NORTHWOOD LFC .................................................... (0) 0 On their return to Wheatsheaf Park, Staines Town set the record straight against the former Rickmansworth LFC, having surprisingly lost to them in the season’s opener. Northwood included one player, Zoe Overing, who had played in the Paralympics for GB Deaf. Totally dominating the first half, the first goal arrived on 9 minutes, when Sharon Heaven won the ball in midfield, worked the ball forward with the help of Oliver, and Jenni Friar fired home. Northwood ‘keeper Crawley made two fine saves from Rachel Fell, but it was Fell who expertly set up number 2 (34 mins). She won the ball in midfield, and slid the perfect pass through to Sam Oliver, who showed great composure before shooting home. Staines won 17 corners to Northwood’s 3, and one of them – on 37 minutes – was converted into a goal. Fell’s flag kick was not cleared, and Lucy McNeil forced the ball over the line from close range. Northwood did manage some half chances in the second half, with Dennehy coming close to becoming the first player to beat Sarah Clutterbuck in a League game at Wheatsheaf Lane, but Staines rounded off the victory with a fourth goal on 71 minutes. A Northwood break was halted for a marginal offside decision just a yard over the halfway line, Heaven lofted the free kick goalwards, and McNeil fired home. Staines: 1 Sarah Clutterbuck, 2 Kate Davies ©, 3 Lyndsey York, 4 Sam Spong, 5 Sharon Heaven, 6 Laura Spooner, 7 Lucy McNeil, 8 Eddy Koff, 9 Jenni Friar (12 Charlie Lourenco 90m), 10 Sam Oliver (16 Hannah Murphy 72m), 11 Rachel Fell (15 Jo Liddell 87m); unused subs 14 Kate Cook, 17 Jenny Killick. Northwood: 1 Wendy Crawley, 10 Danni Kavenagh-King, 22 Lily Dennehy, 3 Emma Manners, 4 Sarah Fookes (15 Holly Gilder 66m), 16 Carla Loosley, 6 Helen Rogers, 15 Christina Meek © (26 Joanne Horwood 64m), 14 Zoe Overing, 7 Suzanne Read, 18 Helen Spring (8 Caroline Bland 78m). Ref – Andrew Serpant (Ashford, Mx); ARs Sean Caldwell (STFC / Staines), Dave Horwood (NFC
IMPROVED RUN ENDED Tuesday 17th October 2006 (7·45pm) – Ryman League, Premier Division STAINES TOWN (1) 1 SLOUGH TOWN (1) 2 By Steve Parsons. Staines improved run came to an end when they were beaten at home by near neighbours Slough on a cool Tuesday evening, on the excellent Wheatsheaf Lane surface. Steve Cordery had faced a mini crisis with his centre back pairing, with Matt Flitter ruled out for 2 or 3 weeks after hurting his back against Chelmsford, and Pete Castle lured away to Eastleigh – one level up the pyramid and closer to home. Darius Charles was signed on a month’s loan from Brentford, and Academy product Chris Robinson signed on Ryman forms, but in fact neither played. Castle was persuaded to make a ‘swansong’ appearance for the club, and he was partnered for the evening by Adam Thompson – at least until the latter sustained a foot injury early in the first half. Two members of the Staines side were lining up against their old club – Sean Allaway and sub Clement James, whilst Slough fielded their recent capture from Wheatsheaf Park, Errol Telemaque, as well as Leigh Mason and unused sub Rav Braich who each had a few games for the club. The first part of the game was very open, with both sides getting in plenty of shots, the best of them coming from Staines’ stand-in captain Scarlett, and Slough’s Telemaque and Wilkinson. A strong looking attack by the visitors on 25 minutes resulted in injuries to both Telemaque and Thompson at separate points, and the Staines man had to leave the field for some lengthy treatment: in fact it soon became clear that he would be unable to resume, but before James could be brought on, Slough took advantage of their reduction to 10 men, by opening the scoring on 26 minutes. A crisp move ended with Terry Davies crossing towards the far post, where Mark Bartley had a simple side-foot in for 1-0. After the substitution, McDonald was moved inside to partner Castle, and Staines set about trying to get back on terms. Sargent sent in a couple of decent crosses, but both were headed off target by his strikers, but the equaliser came on 38 minutes following a swift break down the left. Ali Chaaban fired in a low shot which Kieran Drake could not hold, and Mark Nwokeji pounced to prod in his seventh competitive goal of the season. However, Slough still considered themselves unlucky not to go in ahead at half time, as Telemaque’s injury time one-on-one with Allaway ended with a good save by the Staines ’keeper. The second half was less than a minute old, however, when Slough scored what proved to be the winning goal, with a spectacular over head kick from the edge of the box by Terry Davies, following Mason’s cross. Nwokeji was cautioned for a trip soon afterwards, and was then replaced by Paul Armstrong, before Allaway again saved well from Telemaque, who received from Darron Wilkinson and saw his venomous shot expertly turned over the bar. Apart from a decent Michael Currie volley which just went wide, following a move involving André Scarlett, Chaaban, and Sargent, it was Slough who looked the likelier side to score until the final minutes. Bartley put one effort just wide, and again tested Allaway following a corner. Scarlett picked up a yellow card when the referee believed he was diving on the edge of the box. In the final minutes, and during the extra 4 of stoppage time, Chaaban saw a shot on the turn blocked, following a good run by Howard Newton, with James’ rebound deflecting just wide. When Currie’s stoppage time shot also found only the side netting, time had run our for the Swans. Staines: Allaway, J Newton, McDonald, Sargent (H Newton 79), Castle, Scarlett ©, K Warner, Thompson (James 26m), Currie, Nwokeji (Armstrong 60), Chaaban; unused Maskell, Thomas. Slough: Drake, Dell, Leach, Bartley, Moleski, Daly ©, Mason, Wilkinson, Wallace, Telemaque, Davies (Miller 83); unused West, Braich. Ref – G Russell (Semilong, Northants), ARs C Breakspear jr & J Ryan (both Surrey). Official att 291.
EXCELLENT WIN FOR LADIES Sunday 15th October 2006 (2pm) Middlesex Senior Women’s Cup, Round 1 [MCFA match 1] BRENTFORD Women’s FC ......................................... (0) 0 STAINES TOWN Women ............................................. (4) 4 Having won the Middlesex Junior Cup last season, Staines were elevated to the Senior equivalent this term, and started with a great win over fellow GLWL Div 1 side Brentford. All the goals came in the first half, with Rachel Fell’s cross shot from just outside the box setting the tone on 17 minutes. Fell’s corner set up number two, with Sam Oliver helping it on, before a defender prodded the ball into her own goal on 25 minutes. Lucy McNeil then scored twice direct from set pieces – the first a 35th minute free kick, and the second straight from a corner two minutes before half time. Staines will now entertain Enfield Town Ladies in the quarter-final on 19th November.
11 Oct 06 – Staines T v Farnborough T (Capital Lg) – postponed: waterlogged pitch
FRUSTRATION FOR ACADEMY Wednesday 11th October 2006 (7:45pm) – est att 62 (official 55) FA Youth Cup sponsored by E.On, Second Qualifying Round (FA match no 45) ST MARGARETSBURY Youths ..................................... (0) STAINES TOWN Youths / KC Academy ......................... (1) Abandoned at half time due to waterlogged pitch A frustrating night for Staines, as they journeyed all the way to Stansted to contest this FA Youth Cup tie, but will now have to repeat the journey 7 days later. Harry Draper made a welcome, and earlier than expected, return from his knee injury. Staines might have gone behind in only 15 seconds, when Bradford blistered clear on the right, but was denied by a fine save by Tommy Draper. As the ball was cleared, ‘Bury’s Baker got a kick in the face from a team-mate, and had to be replaced after long treatment for his cuts. Staines scored the only goal of the evening on 6 minutes, Harry Draper’s low cross being drilled in at an angle by Nick White. Play flowed from end to end, with Dearie forcing another save for the home side, before Groves stood back and allowed White’s long range free kick to come back off the post. Meggie went close from a White cross, but on 36 minutes the home side were awarded a harsh penalty, after a shot into a crowded box struck Brown on the arm. However, Dumbleton fired wide. On the stroke of half time, Harry Draper robbed Fordham, but his fine shot was touched over. As the players left the park, the rain started again. The referee had his reservations about the surface at the start, but the extra water gave him no option but to abandon proceedings, although he did extend half time to see if conditions improved … they only worsened. Staines – Tommy Draper, Elliot Blake ©, Daniel Gurney, Phil Joseph, Marvin Brown, Bryan Harrison, Nick White, Tom Windsor, Daniel Meggie, Lyle Taylor, Harry Draper; unused Dominic Dwyer, Quincy Rowe, James McShane, Gareth Teuten, Josh Brooks. St Margaretsbury – Jamie Groves, Peter Baker (Peter Fordham 3m), Ricky Light ©, Jed Woods, Dominic Angelini, Reece Toop, Dean Glass, Tom Dumbleton, Gareme Dearie, Daniel Bradford, Tom Archer; unused – Corey Cato, Jordan McCollin, Stuart Fryer, Tom Pritchard (gk). Ref: Peter Agnew (Hoddesdon, Herts); ARs Christopher Lowry (Stevenage, Herts), Jake Hillier (Barnet, Herts).
Sun 15 Oct - Staines Town Vets had an exciting 3-3 draw away to Cobham Vets in a friendly
FIRST WIN OF CAMPAIGN Sunday 8th October 2006 (2pm) at Staines Lammas FC Greater London Women’s League Division 1 STAINES TOWN WOMEN .......................................... (2) 8 DYNAMO NORTH LONDON ..................................... (1) 2 Staines secured the first win of the new League campaign in convincing style on Sunday, against a side who had enjoyed good wins in their opening two games. Staines never looked back from the moment that Sam Oliver received a super Jenni Friar pass and applied a great finish to beat Jones in the 7th minute, the move – like many of them on the day – being started by Rachel Fell. Oliver scored the second in a huge scramble which followed a 21st min Fell corner, but an injury to Jones in the mêlée meant that Dynamo had to bring on their sub ’keeper. The visitors pulled a goal back on 39 mins when Ashley Fletcher guided a lob just under the bar. Just a minute into the second half, Staines scored a third, again from a Fell corner, although this time there was some confusion as to who should be credited with the goal. Kate Cook provided the volley at the far post, but there was probably a faint touch by Sharon Heaven in the goalmouth. Sarah Clutterbuck pulled off a great save to deny Young, before Jenni Friar rolled in Staines’ fourth (51m), after Oliver had played the ball back into the centre when her own effort was saved. Fell was unlucky not to score herself, with a shot which hit the bar, but her pinpoint cross set up Lucy McNeil to volley number five from close range (68m). Laura Spooner’s pass set Eddy Koff on her way for the sixth (77m), making a driving run ad firing beyond Armstrong. Two minutes alter and another forceful attack ended with Friar lashing in her second, only for the team from Archway to pull one back through Natalie Burnett (82m). Oliver then his the post, but there was still time for her to complete her hat trick 3 minutes into stoppage time, with a powerful shot under the ’keeper. Staines: 1 Sarah Clutterbuck, 2 Lynsey York, 3 Sam Spong, 4 Kate Cook, 5 Sharon Heaven, 6 Laura Spooner ©, 7 Lucy McNeil, 8 Jenni Friar, 10 Sam Oliver, 11 Rachel Fell, 14 Eddy Koff; subs 12 Hannah Murphy (for Fell 81m), 15 Jo Liddell (for Friar 89m), 9 Charlotte Lourenco (for Cook 51m), 16 Kate Davies (unused). Dynamo: 1 Karen Jones, 11 Rosita Dalleave, 2 Sarah Ferris, 23 Michelle Quacue, 3 Marie Claude Boily, 8 Ashley Fletcher, 24 Pia Berg, 13 Deena Blumenkrantz, 12 Eloise Young, 9 Seagony Lowe-Vidal, 7 Natalie Burnett ©; subs 19 Emily Swan (for Lowe-Vidal 25m), 21 Syan Armstrong (gk: for Jones 22m), 24/40 Louise Skinner (for Burnett 87m). Ref: Michael Findlay (Sunbury-on-Thames); ARs Rob Killick (STFC & Feltham) and ?(DNL FC). Att 27
UNBEATEN HOME RECORD STILL INTACT FOR SWANS Saturday 7th October 2006 (3·00pm) – Ryman League, Premier Division STAINES TOWN (1) 1 CHELMSFORD CITY (0) 1 By Steve Parsons. These two sides met at a sunny, and perfectly prepared, Wheatsheaf Park on Saturday, eager to consolidate recent improved runs with a win on Saturday. Steve Cordery restored Adam Thompson, André Scarlett, and Ali Chaaban, with Howard Newton, Dean Thomas, and Paul Armstrong moved to the bench. Additional spice was provided by Chelmsford’s recent signing of Fiston Manuella from The Swans, who started the game, and their inclusion of the Staines 2003/4 Player of the Year, Kezie Ibe, as a sub. Attacking the Silvers Farm end in the first half, The Clarets pressed strongly at the start, but Staines were quickly in goalmouth action themselves, with three early chances for Ali Chaaban. He forced Richard McKinney into a diving save, then snatched at another chance, and then saw a header spin just beyond the post after a long free kick by Dave Sargent. City then attacked through Jeff Minton, who would become a constant threat, forcing Shaun Allaway to divert his shot for a corner, which in turn led to Spencer Knight firing just wide. After being cautioned for a foul on McDonald, Minton then pumped a big free kick into the Staines box, and Allaway was forced into a hasty save off a mis-placed defensive header. However, Staines were playing well enough to deserve the lead they garnered on 32 minutes, when Ali Chaaban robbed a defender of the ball just outside the box, and then skilfully eluded three challenges, before targeting his shot low into the far corner of McKinney’s net. Michael Currie’s audacious overhead kick was the nearest that Staines came to increasing the lead before half time, but they continued to play some impressive football, passing the ball well, and, in André Scarlett and Dave Sargent (who is improving with every game after his long lay off) proving plenty of quality. At the back, a combination of Jon McDonald and Allaway was needed to prevent Minton having a run at goal, following a 38th minute cross from the left by Knight. Staines started the second half just as well, with Kevin Warner intercepting a pass and feeding Chaaban, and it took a good challenge on the edge of the box to keep him out. Sargent also had a half chance, but then the tide started to turn in Chelmsford’s direction, and they levelled in the 53rd minute. A defence-splitting pass by Spencer Knight set the unmarked Ricky Holmes on his way, and he showed great composure in guiding his shot under the body of the advancing Allaway and into the net. Ibe was brought on very soon afterwards, and one was left to wonder why he did not start, as he looked a major threat every time he received the ball: however, Staines’ defence were able to keep him at bay. The game ebbed and flowed almost by turns, with Ibe forcing a corner within seconds of coming on, Sargent blasting a free kick into the wall after a foul on Warner by Steve Ward (for which he was booked), and Ibe going just wide following a good pass by Mario Noto. Sargent, McDonald, and Chaaban combined well to provide a chance from which Scarlett drove just over, and then Noto went just wide after Staines struggled to clear a free kick by Minton. The visitors ended the game the stronger, however, with Jason Hallett going close with an angled volley, and the same player drawing a superb defensive tackle from Jake Newton on the edge of the box. J Newton also picked up a yellow card after a foul on the edge of the box. However, the best chance of breaking the deadlock came Staines’ way, when Chaaban fed Mark Nwokeji, who hit a stunning shot which seemed certain to go into the top corner … only for McKinney to fly across his goal and keep the ball out one handed. In the end, the draw was the fairest result, although it did not really suit either team, and Staines remain in 14th spot. Staines: Allaway, Thompson, McDonald, J Newton, Flitter ©, Scarlett (Thomas 87), K Warner, Sargent, Currie (H Newton 70), Nwokeji, Chaaban; unused Maskell, Armstrong, James. Chelmsford: McKinney, Conroy, Duffy, Chenery ©, Ward, Manuella, Noto (Hallett 70), Minton, Battersby (Ibe 57), Holmes, Knight, unused subs Ainsley, Heeroo, Sobers. Ref – G Young (Beds), ARs C Hooper, A Morley. Official att 332.
BUSY DAY FOR STAINES Wednesday 4th October will go down as one of the busiest ever for senior football at Staines Town. Firstly, the Kingston College Academy fielded two teams during the afternoon. The first, long-standing fixture was an English Colleges’ League (South East) match at home to SUSSEX DOWNS, which resulted in a 4-0 win, with goals by Aston Ventour, Jermaine McGlashan, Craig Masham, and Chris Robinson. Martyn Spong had to spread his resources quite thinly, as he had also arranged to play another U19 game that afternoon (2:15), away to GODALMING COLLEGE, in the Preliminary Round of the Surrey Colleges U19 Cup. Perhaps not surprisingly, that team went out by a 2-0 scoreline. The Godalming game was only agreed because they were due to (finally) start their Southern Youth League (East Division) campaign on Thursday 5th, with an away game at GODALMING TOWN, coincidentally. However, Staines were disappointed to learn that Godalming Town FC had unilaterally brought that game forward by 24 hours, with only a few days’ notice. They nevertheless agreed to play the game, despite several of the boys having already played once, and gave a disappointing performance to go down 2-0. Finally, there were more Academy boys involved in that night’s Reserve team game at Wheatsheaf Lane. Here, Staines maintained their top-of-the-table push by defeating YEADING 2-1 in the Capital League, thanks to goals by Craig Masham and Aston Ventour.
OTHER MATCHES Sunday 8th October - Two Staines Town sides were in action at Staines Lammas FC. First, the Vets defeated Thames Ditton 5-2 Then, in the afternoon, the Women's team kick-started their League campaign with an excellent 8-2 win over DYNAMO NORTH LONDON. Goals came from Sam Oliver (with a hat trick), Jenni Friar (2), Lucy McNeil, Eddy Koff, and one which is still being disputed beyween Kate Cook and Sharon Heaven!
SWANS PROGRESS IN CUP Monday 2nd October 2006 (7·45pm) – Westview Cup, Round Three HENDON (1) 1 STAINES TOWN (0) 2 By Steve Parsons. Staines achieved a third successive away win when they progressed to the last 16 of the Isthmian League’s Westview Cup at Claremont Road on a cool Monday night. Last year’s visit to this famous old ground was expected to be Staines’ last, but the proposed move (or ground share, perhaps at Wembley FC) has not yet materialised, so they travelled back to the aging stadium, and were pleased to find the pitch in decent condition. Steve Cordery restored Jake ad Howard Newton to the starting side, and recalled Paul Armstrong and Dave Sargent. Missing were Pete Castle (injured at Worthing), André Scarlett (1 game suspension), Ali Chaaban and Adam Thompson (rested). Staines also named two Reserve players on the bench – Mamadou Faly Basse, who came on for his début late on, and Tim Pitt, an Academy product. Hendon were set to include ex Swan Jermaine Hunter in their starting line-up, but were forced to make a late change when he failed to arrive, adding Danny Rouco to a bench which already included Ross Pickett. Hendon belied they poor start to the campaign by taking the lead as early as the 11th minute, when Staines were caught out by a low cross by Jamie Busby, where Rakatahr Hudson forced it in at the near post. In a generally scrappy first half, Staines’ best chance to equalise came when Michael Currie was put through, but he unfortunately lost his footing; whilst, at the other end, Wayne O’Sullivan blasted a good chance wide of Shaun Allaway’s goal Staines came out much more positively for the second period, and it took only 2 minutes for them to draw level. Currie controlled a long ball and took it past a defender, before crossing to Paul Armstrong who scored at the far post – his first goal for the club. And before Hendon had a chance to regroup, Staines moved into the lead just 4 minutes later, when Dave Sargent scored from the penalty spot against his old club, following a foul by Ryan Wharton on Howard Newton. Hendon had a good chance to get back on terms, but Kevin Warner was on hand to clear Lee O’Leary’s header off the line. Ian Hilaire also went close, and Allaway also had to make a low diving save from a last minute effort by O’Leary, but Staines generally looked comfortable once they had gone in front. They had pretty solid claims for another penalty after Busby had scooped away a through ball with his arm, while Mark Nwokeji made some menacing runs. There was only one yellow card in the game – The Greens’ Wayne O’Sullivan for dissent. The draw for the 4th Round was delayed until a week later, as numerous ties were postponed to make way for FA Cup replays. Staines: Allaway, Sargent, McDonald, J Newton, Flitter ©, H Newton, K Warner, Thomas (Risbridger 77), Currie (Basse 82), Nwokeji, Armstrong; unused Maskell, Pitt, Courtnage (gk). Hendon: Wilmot, Rose, Vargas, Page, Wharton, Busby, Hudson, O’Leary ©, Hilaire (Pickett 73), Ake (Lopes 82), O’Sullivan; unused Burgess, Rouco, Pattendon. Ref – S Fay (Luton); ARs – J Crook (Aylesbury), M Dhokia (Luton); official att: 85.
NO REPEAT FOR LADIES Sunday 1st October 2006 (2:20pm) – att 15 (at Staines Lammas FC) FA Women’s Cup, First Qualifying Round [FA match 39] CHICHESTER CITY UNITED Ladies ......................... (1) 1 STAINES TOWN Women ............................................. (0) 0 There will be no repeat of last season’s record breaking FA Women’s Cup run for Staines, following this narrow defeat at a rainy Staines Lammas FC on Sunday. The match was switched to Staines following last week’s postponement due to stones on the 'Portfield' pitch, but it was touch and go whether it would take place at the second time of asking, following a pre-match downpour. However, expert forking by SLFC’s Steven Honey satisfied the officials, and it finally started, albeit 20 minutes late. The visitors, who play one rung higher in the pyramid than Staines, had the better of the early exchanges, although Rachel Fell was unlucky for Staines. On 21 minutes, Laura Brander raced away on the right, and hit what proved to be the only goal of the game, with a super strike from outside the area. But slowly, Staines started to get back into the game, with Fell and Hannah Murphy making inroads down the flanks. They were very unlucky not to be level after 37 minutes, when a Murphy corner caused confusion in the box, and Charlotte Lourenco managed to force the ball over the line. However, although the whistle did not blow until after it was in, the goal was disallowed because Staines’ Sharon Heaven lay injured on the ground after a clash of heads: play was restarted with a drop-ball. There were also claims for a penalty in the 25th minute of a second half in which Staines did most of the attacking, but simply lacked the killer instinct in front of the goal. A super pass from Lucy McNeil forced ‘keeper Broughton to make a fine save, Fell shot just wide after winning the ball in the 18 yard box, and she then provided a teasing cross which Murphy could not quite reach at the far post. Naturally, as they pressed forward, Staines left a few gaps at the back, and Sarah Clutterbuck pulled off two tremendous saves, forcing Emma Teague to shoot wide, then diving at the feet of Marie Field when clean through.. There were 6 extra minutes played, during which Teague headed against the post. However, time ran out for Staines, who thus miss a home tie with Havant & Waterlooville next week, and spoil their captain’s 30th birthday! Staines – Sarah Clutterbuck, Kate Davies ©, Jo Liddell, Shona McKay, Sharon Heaven, Laura Spooner, Hannah Murphy, Jenni Friar, Lucy McNeil, Charlie Lourenco, Rachel Fell; unused Kate Cook. Chichester – Charlotte Broughton, Emma Brand, Kirsty Troughton, Louise Harris, Emma Teague, Laura Streeter, Annie Richardson, Natalie Hathaway, Sarah Wolfender © (Maria Tomlinson HT), Marie Field, Laura Brander; unused Marley Lodge, Amber Maher, Rosie Maher. Caution: Brand (70m, dissent). Ref – Peter Smith (Friern Barnet); ARs Brian Fitzpatrick (Ashford), Tony Silverston (Edgware). | |
