BIDEFORD OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD AFC SEASON 2020/21 ISSUE 02 £2.00 PITCHING IN SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION ONE SOUTH

V LARKHALL ATHLETIC SATURDAY 19 SEPTEMBER 2020 KICK OFF 3.00PM

IAN KNIGHT EDITORSCORNER

Good afternoon everyone and all, I BIDEFORD AFC, THE SPORTS GROUND, trust you are all well, and it is a big KINGSLEY ROAD BIDEFORD, DEVON welcome to the Officials; Players and Supporters of Larkhall Athletic for EX39 2NB this afternoon’s Southern League T: 01237 474974 fixture. E: [email protected] www. bidefordafc.com We trust that they have had an BIDEFORD AFC (1987) Ltd Company uneventful journey down from Bath and number: 02113750 Company Limited By equally have a safe journey home. The Guarantee The Sports Ground, Kingsley Road, full break down of the historic fixtures Nancekivell; Tiegan Rosenquest; Lewis Bideford, Devon, EX39 2LH T: 01237 474974 between our two sides can be found Wilson; and Javan Wright. Cheick – E: [email protected] inside this programme. Tiemoko Diabate was also on the bench, www.pitchero.com/clubs/bidefordafc but did not come on. www.therobinsnestbideford.co.uk Last weekend, our supporters were rewarded with a glorious sunny Missing on Saturday was Joe Charles, which highlights the fact that Sean has Club President: Roy Portch afternoon, and a solid all round three more players at his disposal this Main Sponsor: Darren Sparrey performance, as our squad ran out 3-0 season, than were on display, a great (D/S Electrical) winners against Wells City in the preliminary round of the Emirates FA position to be in. Chairman: Kevin Tyrrell Cup. Vice Chairman: Ian Knight This is a new world that we find Directors: Mike Bell & Tristan Bannister On our playing front, Sam Haynes and ourselves in, and we ask you all to please Financial Manager & Accountant: Ian Sampson are both still recovering follow all the Covid-19 distancing and Trevor Gray from long term injuries. It is hoped that other measures we have been obliged to Advisor to Directors: Stephen Shortridge Max Smallcombe and Aaron Taylor will put in place. Company H&S Officer: Mike Bell both be available again, after suffering Company Secretary: Ian Knight knocks in our pre season fixtures against Enjoy the first league fixture of the Commercial Manager: Peter Ellis Tiverton. season, and ensure that you give plenty Covid-19 Officer: Kevin Tyrrell of positive vocal support to our new Football Manager: Sean Joyce It was amazing to see so many players squad, as they all bed in. Assistant Manager: Ben Wood making their competitive debuts, Jordan Ian Physio: Tony Beal Annear; Jack Calver; George Web Master: Adam Barker Tannoy Announcer: Tristan Bannister Club Shop Manager: Richard Watts Changing Rooms: Barry Ackland Robins Nest Steward: Mrs Sue Tyrrell Robins Nest Chairman: Tristan Bannister Robins Nest Treasurer: Andy Rickard Robins Nest Secretary: David Mounce Supporters Club Chairman: Paul Humphries Car Park Manager: Mike Higgs Match Day Manager: Roger Beal Turnstile Operators & Stewards: Mike Bell; Mike Higgs; Alan Humphries; Paul Humphries; Steve Keen; Dave Mounce; Andy Rickard.

OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB 03 LARKHALL ATHLETIC FOOTBALL CLUB THE HISTORY

WELCOME TO TODAY`S VISITORS: from the local community and members funding for this work came from the LARKHALL ATHLETIC past and present, the club completed the Football Stadia Improvement Fund. Larkhall Athletic Football Club dates from purchase of Plain Ham from the Bath and In 2014 we celebrated our centenary year 1914. In 1951, after a break through the North East Somerset Local Authority. with gusto. Our performances on the field 1940s, the club regained access to its home provided a wonderful backdrop, our at Plain Ham following a plea to the City of In 2007 the hard standing was increased in manager was selected as Manager of the Bath Council to return Plain Ham to a size and in 2008 it was further extended to Year by the Western League, we were sports field. It had been turned over to border three sides of the pitch and to treated to a marvellous reception in the allotments during WW II. Since then, it has incorporate a protected walkway from the Guildhall Bath hosted jointly by the Mayor gone from strength to strength, achieving changing rooms. At the same time the of Bath and the Chairman of BANES the status in 2004 as a Premier Club and in existing covered viewing area was tripled in Council, we enjoyed a wonderful evening 2008 as an FA Charter Standard size and 55 seats installed; an additional 45 with the great Gordon Banks at the Oriel Community Club; the first club to achieve seats were added in 2009 and a further 55 Hall, Larkhall and returned to the Guildhall this recognition in Bath. This status was in 2013. for our Centenary Dinner in September renewed in 2011 and 2014. 2014 where the Chairman of BANES In 2011 the hard standing was further Council was our guest of honour. Initially the club rented the Plain Ham extended to completely surround the pitch. match by match. It offered a sloping pitch, a At the same time substantial ground work On the pitch the club boasts a long list of timber hut for changing and a single tin was undertaken to stabilise the far corner honours. In its early days the club lead the bath for washing, a nearby standpipe of the pitch: new fencing was installed, new way in the local Bath and District Saturday providing the water source. In 1962 a safety rails were constructed in front of the League and in Somerset Junior Football cricket team was formed and the club stand, a turnstile was created at the where the club was pre-eminent for many became Larkhall Sports Club. Around the entrance and new lighting was connected. seasons before advancing to senior same time the then Bath City Council To address ongoing drainage problems the football. Since then the club secured the granted the club a long lease on the ground pitch was gravel banded from across the Somerset Senior Cup in seasons in 1975- at Plain Ham. Erection of a small club house pitch. Funding from the Football Stadia 76 and 2003-04, the Western League First began in 1965. Improvement Fund helped towards this Division Championship in 1988-89 and work. Late in 2011 the club was successful 2008-09, the Western League Premier In 1975 the main football pitch at Plain with applications for funding to Sport Division Championship in 2010-11 and the Ham was levelled to create a surface England and the Football Stadia Western League double - Premier Division suitable for senior football. In 1983 the Improvement Fund for new changing Championship and Les Phillips Cup - in club house and changing rooms were rooms, and to remodel the clubhouse to 2013-14. The Larks reached the last 16 of doubled in size and in 1989 the club provide improved toilets and hospitality the FA Vase three seasons in succession. purchased adjoining land at Pows Field facilities for spectators and visiting officials. which today is seldom used for matches, The formal opening of the re-vamped In 2014 we accepted promotion to the but provides a valuable space for and extended facilities was celebrated Southern League. Our first season was a overflow parking . with guest of honour the Mayor of huge success and we reached the play-offs Bath, Councillor Malcolm Lees, on before losing in the play-off final to In 1996, aided by a Lottery Grant, the club 16 August 2013. Stratford Town. We also enjoyed a further extended its club house, enlarging wonderful FA Cup campaign defeating the changing rooms, incorporating secure In late 2013, friends of the club contributed Merthyr Town and Truro City both away storage, a laundry and a kitchen and to more facility improvements that had before losing at Gosport Borough, then of improving access and disabled facilities. In been identified in order to satisfy Grade E the FA Conference, in a replay. 2004 Plain Ham was re-levelled, drainage of the FA Grading requirements. These improved and floodlights installed, all with included additional seats, more covered In October 2016 Wayne Thorne opted to the help of the Football Stadia standing, improved turnstiles and new stand down from his managerial role and Improvement Fund. At the same time the outside toilets. This was completed ahead was replaced by his assistant Geraint Bater car park was extended and new floodlights of the 31 March 2014 deadline enabling us who was in turn assisted by Neil Arndale. installed on what was a training area in to accept promotion in what was our Unfortunately work and family priorities front of the club house and is now leased to double winning centenary year. Further led Geraint to an early decision to the City of Bath Petanque Club. facility improvements enabled us to satisfy relinquish his role only to be replaced by In 2005, with tremendous financial support the Grade D requirements. Half of the father Phil in January 2017. In 2017-18

04 OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB LARKHALL ATHLETIC FOOTBALL CLUB ASHORTHISTORY

Phil had been joined by Neil Arndale in the Mangotsfield in 2017. He has also played midfielder who signed in 2019 from dug-out. In the 2018-19 close season we for Clevedon and Cribbs. Paulton Rovers. Other previous clubs have pulled out all the stops to completely include Mangotsfield Utd, Taunton Town, re-model the clubhouse. The upgraded and Dan Restorick (21) Defender/midfield. Yate Town, Cinderford Town and Newport . updated facilities includes a refitted kitchen Dan is a product of our u18s side who with all new appliances, an enlarged and scored on his first team debut in 2016 and Alex Lambert (29) Midfield. A fast and completely re-decorated interior with had a very successful spell in New Zealand strong left-sided winger, Alex joined the modern lighting, an enlarged front door to in 2018. He can play at defence or in Larks in 2016 from Brislington where he cope with modern disability chairs, new midfield. featured in the side that reached the FA flooring and new furniture which will Cup 1st round. Previous clubs also include provide us with a comfortable and Jaiden Savery (24) Defender. An Mangotsfield United and Yate Town. contemporary home for many seasons to unflappable and consistent full-back, Jaiden Second top scorer in the 2019-20 season. come. We are most grateful to Tom Gilbert has come through the Larks’ u-18s and for taking the lead and to the skilled Reserves sides. Dan Demkiv (23) Striker. An academy construction team of PT Masonry. player at Southampton from 7-18, danger Tom Warren (33) Defender. A very man Dan has since had spells at several This season will be our sixth in the experienced centre-half, Tom signed from clubs, including Salisbury, Cirencester Southern League. We are now an Melksham in November 2019. He was at Town, Melksham Town, Frome Town, established member of the Southern Mangotsfield for a number of years and has Mangotsfield United, and Taunton Town. League community and tie our ambitions to also played for Yate Town. He is a player representative for Epilepsy progression through the League, although Research UK. an FA Cup run would be richly appreciated. Geraint Bater (40) Midfield. Bates is a We offer to all of our visitors a very warm central midfielder with a fine pedigree who Brad Norris (26) Centre-forward. Hard- welcome to probably the prettiest ground started out at Bristol Rovers and has also working forward Brad returned to the in the country and look forward to seeing played for Newport as well as a number of Larks in 2019 after spells at Bath City, many more of you this coming season. Southern League sides. He become the Melksham and Frome Town. Larks’ assistant manager in November MEET THE PLAYERS & MANAGER OF 2015, and was first team manager from Lewis Powell (32) Striker. Lewis is a TODAY`S VISITORS October 2016-January 2017. proven goal-scorer. After starting his Shaun Semmens (29) Goalkeeper . career at Bristol Rovers he also played for An athletic shot-stopper, Shaun signed in Matt Britton (25) Midfield. Ginge is a Mangotsfield, Taunton Town, Chippenham January 2017 from Mangotsfield United, robust presence at the heart of our midfield Town, Weston-super-Mare and Evesham having started his career playing for who can also fill in at central defence. He United. Larks’ Golden Boot winner in Godolphin Atlantic in Cornwall. He was joined the Larks from Western League side 2018-19 and 2019-20. awarded man of the match twice in his first Cadbury Heath in 2017. He was our joint 5 games for the Larks. second top scorer in his first season. Joe Tumelty (25) Forward. Winner of two James Byrne (24) Midfield. James is a new Larks’ Supporters’ Player of the Year Mike Baker (26) Defender; club captain . signing for the 2020-21 season, a lively awards, Joe is now in his third spell with the A left-sided centre-half with a big presence, box-to-box midfielder who has previously Larks. A classy attacker who can score from Mike transferred to the Larks from Yate played for Mangotsfield United and any angle. Previous clubs include Hereford, Town in 2017. A schoolboy at Bristol Bridgwater Town. Frome Town, Evesham United and Bristol Rovers, his other previous clubs include Manor Farm. Mangotsfield United and Odd Down. Jack Camm (27) Midfield. Busy and Leon Greenland (25) Defender. A highly- versatile midfielder Jack makes a welcome MEET THE MANAGER PHIL BATER rated full back, Leon joined the Larks from return after a few years’ absence. He has Phil enjoyed a tremendous playing career Bradford Town. He has also played for also played for Yate Town and Cinderford. at higher levels, including Bristol Rovers, Westbury United and Trowbridge Town. Fin Coyle (20) Midfield/defence. Local lad Brentford, Wrexham and Cardiff City, as This is his first season at Southern League Fin joined the Larks last season. He can play well as turning out for Wales u-21s. He has level and we hope it’ll be a successful one. on the left wing or in defence. managed a number of clubs, notably Bristol Josh Jones (25) Defender. An imposing Rovers, Mangotsfield United, and centre-half who dominates our defence, Dale Evans (33) Midfield. Dale is a very Clevedon. He joined the Larks in January Josh signed for the Larks from experienced and sought after central 2017.

OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB 05 06 OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB BIDEFORD AFC PLAYER OF THE PAST IANMAIN

THIS WEEK IN THE PAST 70 Years ago 16th September 1950 The team were at home to Dartmouth in the FA Cup and won 7-1. Our goals were scored by Tommy Robinson (4), Denny Miller (2) and Billy Mustard

50 YEARS AGO Ian was born on the 31st In all he made 78 19th September 1970 October 1959 in Weston appearances for Exeter, he The team were away to Barnstaple Super Mare. then joined the Robins the Town where we won 7-1. The goals were scored by Peter Druce (4), following season, to cover Russell Peterson (2) and Colin Rowe He progressed to become for the injured Robbie an England Schoolboys goal Robbins. 25 YEARS AGO keeper in September 1978, 18TH SEPTEMBER 1995 he graduated from Exeter Ian gave up football after We were on Western League Premier Division duty University with a that to pursue a career in where we travelled to Taunton Town to play out a goalless draw 2:1Honours degree in the Devon & Cornwall Applied Mathematics. Constabulary, where he 10 YEARS AGO progressed to the rank of 18TH SEPTEMBER 2010 He played for Gloucester Detective Inspector, but The team were at home to Thatcham Town in the City, before signing for sadly died in 1998 at just Southern League and drew 1-1. Our goal was scored Exeter City in 1979; he was 38, leaving a widow, Julie by Steve Orchard a member of the first team and two young children. PICTURED: Colin Rowe scored one of our goals squad for the next three 70 years ago in our 7-1 FA Cup victory at seasons, before being Picture: Ian blocks a shot at Barnstaple Town. released. the Sports Ground

OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB 07

EARLY GOALS SEE ROBINS THROUGH TO NEXT ROUND ROBINSREWIND

Saturday 12th September 2020 Emirates FA Cup Preliminary Round ROBINS 3 WELLS CITY 0

Bideford: Kingston, Heeney, Down, Milton, Calver, Rosenquest (Wright 89), Nancekivell, Wood (Reay 72), Byrne, Annear, Turner (Wilson 90). Subs not used: Mayne, Diabate, Wilson. Goals: Down 9, Brown 13og, Rosenquest 81 Attendance: 234

Watch the Match Highlights on our YouTube Channel. The Robins now travel away to Tiverton Town in the first round qualifying which takes place this coming Wednesday 23rd September 2020, kick-off 7.45pm

OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB 09 FOLLOW THE ROBINS PROGRESS THROUGHOUT THE 2020/2021 SEASON MATCHBYMATCH

TEAM H/A F-A ATT 1234 5 6 7 8 9 1 SEPTEMBER Sat 12 WELLS CITY (FAC PR) HOME *3-0 234 Kingston Heeney Calver ROSENQUEST 1* Milton Sat 19 LARKHALL ATHLETIC HOME Wed 23 Tiverton Town (FAC 1QR) Away Tue 29 Paulton Rovers Away OCTOBER Sat 3 Moneyfields Away Tue 6 FROME TOWN HOME Sat 10 THATCHAM TOWN HOME Sat 17 SLIMBRIDGE (FAT PR) HOME Sat 24 Bristol Manor Farm Away Tue 27 AFC Totton Away Sat 31 SHOLING HOME NOVEMBER Tue 3 SLIMBRIDGE HOME Sat 7 Evesham United Away Sat 14 Melksham Town Away Sat 21 MANGOTSFIELD UNITED HOME Sat 28 Cirencester Town Away DECEMBER Sat 5 CINDERFORD TOWN HOME Sat 12 Highworth Town Away Sat 19 BASINGSTOKE TOWN HOME Sat 26 Barnstaple Town Away JANUARY Sat 2 WILLAND ROVERS HOME Sat 9 Frome Town Away Sat 16 WINCHESTER TOWN HOME WE’VE MET Sat 23 Sholing Away Sat 30 AFC TOTTON HOME BEFORE FEBRUARY Sat 6 Slimbridge Away Sat 13 EVESHAM UNITED HOME Season Home Away Sat 20 CIRENCESTER TOWN HOME 2004/05 Won 2-1 Sat 27 Mangotsfield United Away 2009/10 Won 4-0 Won 3-1 MARCH 2016/17 Drew 1-1 Won 1-0 Sat 6 MELKSHAM TOWN HOME 2017/18 Won 4-1 Won 1-0 Sat 13 Cinderford Town Away 2018/19 Drew 1-1 Won 3-2 Sat 20 BRISTOL MANOR FARM HOME 2019/20 Drew 2-2 Sat 27 Thatcham Town Away WL D F A APRIL HOME 30 2 12 4 AWAY Sat 3 Winchester City Away 40 1 10 5 TOTAL 70 3 22 9 Mon 5 BARNSTAPLE TOWN HOME Sat 10 Larkhall Athletic Away As can be seen by the stats above, we have been fortunate to have had a Sat 17 MONEYFIELDS HOME successful competitive past against our opponents today, having first met Sat 24 Basingstoke Town Away each other in a Les Phillips Cup Sixteen years ago. The players in our MAY present squad who have scored for the Robins in this fixture, are Sat 1 HIGHWORTH TOWN HOME Mon 3 Willand Rovers Away Ryan Turner 2; Charlie Lawrence 1 & Ben Wood 1. Sat 8 PAULTON ROVERS HOME

10 OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB FOLLOW THE ROBINS PROGRESS THROUGHOUT THE 2020/2021 SEASON MATCHBYMATCH

67 89 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

DOWN 1 Nancekivell Wood** Annear Turner*** Byrne I Reay** Mane Diabate Wilson*** Wright*

PLAYERS APPEARANCES 2020/21

Games Goals League Cup In All League Cup In All Jordan Annear 011000 Alex Byrne 0116 001 Cheick Diabate 000000 Toby Down 0167 016 Liam Kingston 0125 000 James Mayne 0094 008 Niall Heeney 0159 002 Ben Wood 01313 0036 George Nancekivell 011000 Ryan Turner 01122 0050 Nick Milton 01113 002 Archie Reay 0125 001 Jack Calver 011000 Tiegan Rosenquest 011011 Javan Wright 011000 Lewis Wilson 011000

MAN OF THE MATCH AWARD (vs WELLS CITY) Match Sponsor Paul Hocking, Painter & Decorator presenting Teigan Rosenquest with the Man of The Match award.

OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB 11 BIDEFORD AFC CLUB HISTORY

BIDEFORD AFC IS AN ENGLISH NON-LEAGUE FOOTBALL CLUB FROM BIDEFORD, DEVON THAT PLAYS IN THE EVO STIK SOUTHERN LEAGUE SOUTH AND WEST.

It was first formed in the Late 1890’s who had 32 International Caps, this This was declined and instead they and was then called “Bideford number was almost unheard of. It was were made to join Division Three. United”. It was nicknamed the Robins, a big day for the Club when Fred Bideford won the division, without due to its Red Shirts, which it is still brought his Cup winning team and losing a game, and two seasons later known as today. the Cup to Bideford. Following its they won the second division and reformation in the 1947/48 season, promotion to Division One. At this After playing local football, Bideford The Club was reborn as “Bideford time, the club did not have a club joined the Devon and Exeter League Association Football Club” and re- house, but there was a Nissen Hut in 1904. Football was suspended for entered the Exeter and East Devon just inside the main gate, and a the duration of World War 1. League, with only two of the Pre War wooden grandstand, which was team surviving, Gerald Brommell and replaced with the present one after After the First World War, its Fred Shute. the Bradford fire disaster. name was Changed to “Bideford Town” and Since the first decade of The team in 1947/9 was run by a In 1964/65 Bideford reached the twentieth Century, the club has committee which met at the the first round proper of the FA Cup, predominantly played at the Sports Maltscoop Inn, and they selected the and drew away at Colchester 3:3 and ground in Bideford. team also. For the start of the lost home in the replay 1:2, at which 1948/49 season Fred Pincott was BBC camera’s were present. Bideford Until entering hibernation for the appointed Manager and the club had won the Western League three duration of World War Two, it was a a house in Chanters Avenue for him times before joining the Southern highly successful club, albeit that it to live in, but team selection was still League in 1972. The club spent three played the majority of its football in in the hands of the committee. seasons in the Southern league North Devon. Bideford were runners up in the before the extra expense involved 1948/49 Season, and applied and increased travelling took its toll, In 1927 Cardiff City won the F.A Cup to join then the Western League forcing them to drop down back to and their Captain was Fred Keenor Division Two. the Western League.

12 OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB BIDEFORD AFC CLUB HISTORY

During their time in the Southern playing teams which, almost without 2003/04. The 2009/10 FA Vase League, the club set an all- time FA exception, would be over 100 miles campaign saw Bideford reach the Cup record, when in 1974–75 they away. However after winning the quarter-final stages, where they played thirteen FA Cup games in a Western League again for the 10th were knocked out by an impressive single season – as a result of playing time in the 2009/10 season and Lowestoft. Manager Sean Joyce is an numerous replays in qualifying winning the Devon St Luke’s Bowl exprofessional footballer, who spent rounds including needing five games where they beat Exeter City 2–1 in his career playing for Doncaster to beat Falmouth Town and four the Final; Bideford AFC accepted Rovers, Exeter City and Torquay Utd. more to beat Trowbridge Town in the promotion to the Southern League next round With the subsequent in May 2010, joining Division One He has managed Bideford since abandonment of second and further South & West. 1998, bringing much success to the replays, this record will never be Club during his time here. beaten again. Bideford were finally In their second season in Division knocked out 0:2 by Bristol Rovers. In One South & West the club won the CLUB RECORDS 1977/78 Bideford again reached the Division and gained promotion to the Highest League Position: Southern League Premier Division as 8th Southern League Premier First Round Proper, travelling to champions. They remained in the Division 2013–14 Portsmouth where they lost 1:3. Premier Division the following Finally they achieved the feat again season, by Goal Difference. FA Cup best performance: 1n 1981/82, being knocked out First round 1964–65, 1973–74, by Barking 1:2. At the end of the 2015/16 season, 1977–78, 1981–82 the Robins were relegated to the Two more Western League titles Southern League Division One South FA Trophy best performance: followed in the early 1980s, before & West. Several players from the club Second round 1969–70 a financial crisis hit the club. A have progressed to Football League reformation took place in 1987, status, the most recent of them being FA Vase best performance: leading to the current set up, a Tony Dennis and Shaun Taylor. Semi-Final 2003–04 company limited by guarantee, under the revised company name Bideford Three former internationals have Record home win: AFC (1987) Ltd. played for the club at the end of their 16–1 v Soundwell, 1950–51 career, Welshman Leighton Phillips, Under the chairmanship of as well as Dermot Curtis and Will Record home loss: Jim McElwee, and his successor Haynes from the Republic of Ireland. 1–10 v Taunton Town, 1998-99 Paul Mitchell, the club won four more Western League titles, and Bideford have also won the Record away win: also made the FA Vase semi-finals, Westward Ho! Cup, the Western 10–0 v Melksham, 2003–04 where they lost to Winchester League Challenge Cup, the Western City. League Subsidiary Cup, the Western Record attendance: League Alan Young Cup, the Devon 5,750 v Gloucester City, FA Despite winning the Western Professional Challenge Cup. Cup, 1949 League four times, under Manager Sean Joyce, between 2000 to 2006, In FA competitions, Bideford AFC’s Record number of the club elected not to apply for record is quite impressive, reaching appearances: Derek May 647. promotion to the Southern League the First Round Proper of the FA Cup due to the amount of travelling and on four occasions, and reaching the Highest Goal Scorer: expense that would be involved in Semi-Final of the FA Vase in Tommy Robinson 259.

OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB 13

MATT BADCOCK NON-LEAGUEPAPER

IF YOU’RE reading this, then it’s good Things changed literally by the hour. news – you’re reading a football Sometimes even within ten minutes of programme, an increasingly being told one thing, another call would endangered species. come through saying it was now something else. It’s been a challenge! Like many things post-coved and in this ‘new normal’ there are lots of things Without crowds it would have been different at our Non-League grounds impossible to start the season. Then now. the fears for clubs as soon as the pandemic broke out would have been The National League have given their multiplied. clubs the option of not running I remember one week, way back in the programmes this year and we’ve seen summer, being told four different similar in the EFL. opinions on the start date for 2020-21.

In this digital world an increasing One said September/October, another number of clubs are looking at those ventured November, someone else avenues rather than the printed page. thought January and another, informed Everyone will have their views on this person, feared not at all! traditional aspect of football match we enter the ground, follow one-way going. systems. Thankfully the first person’s guess was correct but we all are aware it’s a fine But here we are, in a programme, It’s very different to what we left in line with cases on the rise again. talking about competitive Non-League March when the 2019-20 season football. Hopefully that is as good to stopped in its tracks. Players are Already we’re getting used to clubs read as it is good to write. turning up in kit, staying out at half- withdrawing from the FA Cup at the time for team talks – the current last minute because of positive tests For many months now we’ve not had weather helps – and sitting apart on and there will no doubt be late much competitive football to write the bench. cancellations of games throughout the about in The NLP. Yes, we had some season. play-off games, but the return this But, when the whistle goes, it’s back to month of competitive football starting the football we’ve all missed so much. We can all play our part. Help clubs with the FA Cup has been most Crowds being allowed back in stadiums stick to the crucial social distancing welcome. was a massive breakthrough. Hopefully rules that need to be adhered to. Fill Steps 2 and above will soon follow out test and trace forms and throw a Of course, everything around the game because all clubs need that money couple of extra quid into the coffers. is different. We’re all getting used to coming through the gate. the added things we have to do. Book a Every little helps. Including buying this ticket online beforehand, fill out a test From a reporters point of view, we’ve programme. and trace form, sanitise our hands as never covered such a fluid situation. Enjoy your football!

OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB 15 BIDEFORD FC MEET THE ROBINS

Sean Joyce Tony Beal James Mayne Manager Sports Therapist Signed from A former League Tony a former Barnstaple Town, professional, who goalkeeper and he is 33 years old played for long standing club & lives in Bideford. Cambridge United, Physio lives here in Now in his second Doncaster Rovers, Exeter Bideford with his family, he spell @ the Robins; he works as a City; Torquay United and then Non- works as an engineer in South Heating Engineer for Ron Sussex. League with Elmore and Taunton Molton. James has now played more than Town. Sean made 200 Football ninety games for the Robins, & has League appearances, taking over as GOALKEEPERS also played for Holsworthy. Bideford Manager, during the Liam Kingston 1998/99 season. Liam is 21 years of Nick Milton age, & is a new 28 year old Nick Bideford were at that time a signing this season has rejoined the struggling Western League Premier from Weston Super Robins for a division side, and since then, Sean has Mare. He has also Previous played for second spell after taken the club from success to Bridgwater Town, He has also had playing at Plymouth success during his twenty years as loan a loan spell at Melksham Town. Parkway; he has club manager, gaining Promotion to Liam has now made more than 20 previously played for Stoke Gabriel & the Southern League South West appearances for the Robins. Torquay United. Nick has made over Division one and then up to the 110 appearances for the Robins. Southern League Premier. DEFENDERS Cheick Diabate George Nancekivell Sean lives in Paignton with his wife Jo Cheick is a 19 year George Started and runs his own business. old Central out at Merton FC, Defender who is on & Moved up Ben Wood Loan from Exeter City, through the levels Player/Assistant he was excellent for their via Torridgeside, Manager U-18’s last season. He Joined City at Barnstaple Town & last Ben works as a 15 from Stevenage. played for Tiverton Town. He is 24 Teacher. years old. Toby Down He is 33 years old, and has made over Toby signed from Ian Sampson 310 appearances for the Robins, Exeter City. Toby is Ian who is aged 28, scoring over 30 goals in the process. 22 years old & has hails from Bude in Ben has also played for Yeovil, also played for Cornwall, and has Weymouth, Frome Town, Sherborne Taunton Town and previously played & Dorchester Town. Buckland Athletic. for Oxford United; Didcott Town and Tiverton Town, With the Robins he has won the His father is former Club Captain Ian where he was player of the year. Ian Toolstation Western League Premier Down. He lives in Torbay & has now has played over 320 games for the Division, The Southern League, South made over fifty appearances for the Robins and with us has won the West Division One and the Devon St Robins. Southern League Division One South Luke’s Bowl. and West, and the Devon St Luke’s

16 OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB BIDEFORD FC MEET THE ROBINS

Bowl. He works as a P.E Teacher. In He is 28 years old, and lives in Aaron Taylor 2014/15 he won the Supporters and Bishops Tawnton.He has made over Signed following Players player of the year awards. fifty appearances for the Robins. his release from Plymouth, where MIDFIELDERS Charlie Lawrence he progressed Alex Byrne Charlie who is 20 through the youth Alex is a 23 year years old, plays as a ranks, he is aged 22 & lives in old Midfielder right sided wide- Westward Ho and works for a building contractor. Now made over Signed for Exeter man. He is a product thirty appearances for the Robins. City in 2015, and of the Exeter Academy, played two first team games against and has also played for Bristo; City; Javan Wright Charlton Athletic and Hartlepool; Bristol Rovers & Reading. On being A young player who United. He was loaned out to Truro released by Exeter in January, he played for City and Weston Super mare, before signed for the Robins Permenantly. Barnstaple Town signing permanently for Weston in Charlie lives in Swindon. He has made last season & 2018. In December 2019 he signed over ten appearances for the Robins. previously was with for the Robins, and has now made Torquay United. over Ten appearances for us. Archie Reay Archie is 20 years STRIKERS Jack Calver old and lives in Jordan Annear Jack who is aged South Molton. He 22 years of age & 22 Previously signed from has previously played for Barnstaple Town. played for Plymouth Argyle & Porthleven, St Austell & Teigan Rosenquest Newquay, Falmouth, Plymouth Parkway. Teigan is a 23 year Tavistock, and Plymouth Parkway. old left sided Ryan Turner Joe Charles player who has Ryan who lives in Joe is 23 years previously played Swimbridge, is 27 old, and is a for Plymouth Argyle, years old & signed product of the Torquay United, Torpoint for the Robins from Yeovil Academy, Athletic, Tavistock, Tiverton Town Barnstaple Town, he who moved to Exeter and Plymouth Parkway. has made over 120 City in 2016, and then joined Taunton appearances, and scored over 50 Town in July 2017, from whom he Max Smallcombe goals for the Robins. He works for an played for Bridport on loan; he signed Max has returned Agricultural Merchants. for the Robins in December 2019. He to the club on a plays as a winger & is 23 years old. permanent basis Lewis Wilson Joe has now played over ten games following his release Lewis is a 19 year for the Robins. from Exeter City. He is old Centre 21 years old, & has also played on Forward on loan Niall Heeney loan @ Tiverton & Truro City. Max from Exeter City, Niall signed for has represented Wales @ U16; U17 where he was top the Robins from & U19 Levels. Max has made over goal scorer for the U- Barnstaple Town. thirty appearances for the Robins. 18’s last season.

OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB 17 18 OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF BIDEFORD FOOTBALL CLUB RICHARD WASSALL TEAMCHECK

Manager:Sean Joyce Manager: Phil Bater Colours:AllRed Colours: All Blue

Pld Sub Pld Sub LIAM KINGSTON SHAUN SEMMENS

NIALL HEENEY JAIDEN SAVERY

JACK CALVER LEON GREENLAND

TIEGAN ROSENQUEST JACK CAMM

TOBY DOWN MIKE BAKER (C)

NICK MILTON (C) JOSH JONES

BEN WOOD ALEX LAMBERT

GEORGE NANCEKIVELL DALE EVANS

RYAN TURNER DAN DEMKIN

JORDAN ANNEAR LEWIS POWELL

ALEX BYRNE JOE TUMELTY

JAMES MAYNE BRAD NORRIS

ARCHIE REAY JAMES BYRNE

CHEICK-TIEMOKO DIABATE DAN RESTORICK

LEWIS WILSON TOM WARREN

JAVRAN WRIGHT FIN COYLE

TODAY’S MATCH OFFICIALS Referee Mr. C. Peters (Taunton) Assistant Mr. A. Heapy (Worcestershire) Assistant Mr. S. Reed (Somerset)

NEXT UP AT HOME TUESDAY 6TH OCTOBER 2020. KICK-OFF 7.45PM FROME TOWN THE PITCHING IN SOUTHERN LEAGUE – DIVISION ONE SOUTH