FAN-TASTIC FINISH Steve www.wealdstone-fc.com 2017-18 Foster captures the moment the Ruislip Windows & Doors Stand exploded with joy a fortnight ago. Abobaker Eisa (who can just be spotted, mobbed by his team mates to the bottom right of the picture) has just netted the 88th-minute winner against Whitehawk Picture: STEVE FOSTER WEALDSTONE v TRURO CITY aqueoussun photography Blue and white All white Wealdstone v Truro City Jonathan North Tom McHale Saturday October 21, 2017, KO 3pm Glenn Wilson Billy Palfrey Vanarama Ryan Sellers Jamie Richards Josh Hill Ed Palmer Matty Day Ben Gerring Jerome Okimo Ben Harding Shaquille Hippolyte-Patrick Aaron Lamont Sam Cox Noel Keats Dan Fitchett Niall Thompson Danny Green Andrew Neal Abobakar Eisa Cody Cooke Luke Williams Alex Hartridge Elliot Benyon River Allen Stephane Ngamvoulou Stewart Yetton Elliott Godfrey Chris Todd Matthew Whichelow Jordan Copp Alan O’Brien Tyler Harvey Ravan Constable Fletcher Williams

MATCH SPONSOR: Alan Couch BALL DONORS: David Leigh and family REFEREE: Paul Harris ASSISTANTS: Christopher Horsman and Giovanni Marasca OBSERVER Douglas Douglas NEXT HOME GAMES: v HAYES & YEADING (Middx Senior Cup) Tuesday Nov 7, 7.45pm v HUNGERFORD TOWN (Vanarama National League South) Saturday November 11, 3pm

INSIDE: INTERVIEW Main club sponsor: League sponsors Your award-winning WITH ALAN O’BRIEN matchday programme, Former Newcastle sponsored by the and Republic of Ruislip Social Club Ireland winger £3 WEALDSTONE FOOTBALL CLUB SEASON 2017/2018 GROSVENOR VALE, RUISLIP, MIDDLESEX HA4 6JQ • 01895 637487 • [email protected] • WWW.WEALDSTONE-FC.COM • COMPANY NO. 3953962

PERSONNEL MATCH DAY OPERATIONS MAJOR HONOURS SINCE 1950 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Manager Steve Marshall Chairman Peter Marsden Safety Officer Victor Klarfeld LEAGUE TITLES Vice Chairman Nick Archer Match Day Staff Paul Bowley, Tony 1951 / 1952 Athenian League Directors Paul Fruin, Waller, Richard Hayward, 1973 / 1974 Southern League Division One South Mike Williamson, Pete Worby, Russell Greenberg, Adam Clancey, 1981 / 1982 Southern League Southern Division Dominic Whyley, Nick Symmons Matthew Impey, John Cahillane 1981 / 1982 Southern League Championship President Paul Rumens 1984 / 1985 National League Premier (Gola League) COMMERCIAL & MARKETING 1996 / 1997 Division Three SECRETARIES Commercial Manager Carol Griffiths 2013 / 2014 Isthmian League Premier Division Club Secretary Paul Fruin ([email protected]) (07790 038095) Graphic Design Steve Foster NATIONAL CUPS Company Secretary Andrew Lane IT Consultant Neil Rands 1965 / 1966 FA Amateur Cup Reporting & Social Media Chris Woods 1984 / 1985 FA Trophy CLUB PERSONNEL LIAISON OFFICERS Life Vice-President Alan Couch LEAGUE CUPS WFCSC / Social Club Markie Barton Treasurer Barry Benveniste 1981 / 1982 Southern League Cup WFC / Social Club James Klarfeld General Manager Nick DuGard Press Officer Nick DuGard MIDDLESEX COUNTY CUPS FOOTBALL MANAGEMENT ([email protected]) 1958 / 1959 Senior Cup PA Announcer Ashley Holding Manager Bobby Wilkinson 1962 / 1963 Senior Cup Kit Manager Tony Waugh Assistant Manager Jamie Leacock 1964 / 1965 Senior Cup Boardroom Hospitality Alison Moran, Coach Mike Percival 1967 / 1968 Senior Cup Jacky Shore Physio Stacey Wood 1984 / 1985 Senior Cup Club Photographer Freddie Patmore Goalkeeping Coach Ian Hobbs 2003 / 2004 Charity Cup Web Site Manager Alan & Matt Hill 2010 / 2011 Charity Cup

MATCHDAY PROGRAMME NON TITLE-WINNING PROMOTIONS Programme Editor Mark Hyde 1997 / 1998 Isthmian League Division 2 (3rd) Production Martin Read, Tim Parks 1998 / 1999 Isthmian League Division 1 (3rd, annulled) Printing People for Print Ltd. 2003 / 2004 Isthmian League Premier Division (Play-Off) www.peopleforprint.co.uk [email protected] GROUND REGULATIONS People are only allowed entry to The Vale on match days subject to the following rules and regulations: 1) The club reserves the right to eject from the ground any person who is considered to have committed any of the following acts: • Entering the ground through any means other than through the turnstiles or entrances • Entering the field of play before, during or after a game without prior authorisation • Being drunk, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs • Using violence of any nature • Carrying items which may be considered a danger to others, including cans, bottles, or glasses containing alcoholic beverages • Throwing any article onto the field of play • Climbing floodlight pylons, fences, stands or any structure or building • Using obscene or bad language likely to cause offence to others • Hitting the side or back panels of the Bulla stand 2) No spectator ball games. 3) The consumption of alcoholic drinks is permitted INSIDE the social club bar and boardroom areas. 4) Vehicles parked on the Grosvenor Vale site are at the owners’ risk. 5) Wealdstone Football Club supports the FA’s campaign on pyrotechnics (e.g. flares and smoke bombs). Any misuse of such items in and around the Ground will result in those responsible being asked to leave the Ground and, in line with football authority guidance, may result in a report to the Police, potential prosecution and a ban from the Club of up to three years. — Wealdstone FC Board of Directors WRITTEN IN STONE recent home form has shown a marked Mark Hyde improvement as Bobby and his team begin to settle into their new roles. With any luck ood afternoon and welcome to we should see an entertaining contest. Grosvenor Vale for our league Enjoying the hospitality of the boardroom meeting with Truro City who’s today will be our Match Sponsor, David Gofficials, players and supporters we wish an Leigh,who introduces himself below and our enjoyable visit. Ball Donor (who needs no introduction), Life After last season’s close escape, Truro are Vice President Alan Couch. Sponsorship, enjoying life at the top end of the table and as I frequently point out, is of vital are currently just a single point off the top importance to the club and we are extremely spot and should prove be a stern test for us grateful for the generosity of both David and this afternoon. The White Tigers also made Alan. a little piece of history for themselves last Also joining us today as a guest of club weekend as they became the first Cornish president Paul Rumens is ex Stone Jon team in 48 years to reach the FA Cup 1st Pettifer. Welcome back Jon, it’s always a round! Congratulation to all concerned and pleasure to see past players return. good luck at The Valley when you take on Charlton Athletic in a few week time. Enjoy the game From a Wealdstone perspective, our Mark SEASON TICKETS STILL TO BE COLLECTED Can the following fans or if you know them please see Nick DuGard or email [email protected] Joe Render Fiona Johnson Andy Richards Steve Wright

MATCH SPONSOR - DAVID LEIGH It has become a family tradition, over the years to sponsor the game that falls on the date nearest to my birthday. I am very proud to be sponsoring the game today – not least because this marks a very signifi- cant birthday for me – and I could ask for no better way of celebrating, than by spending the day with family and friends at Grosvenor Vale. This season has already been a fairly dramatic one – and within just the first three months, we have already seen a number of significant highs and lows. One of the disappointing aspects for me, has been a lack of togetherness, at times, from the terraces. I think that we all need to remember that we are supporters – and so we should support the team. It seems to me that the players and the management are trying to get things right on the pitch; and despite some setbacks, I am sure that everyone from the Chairman to the fan behind the goal, wants the same thing – to see some good football and to get some good results. So let’s all get behind the boys, make some noise and cheer us on to victory. Come on you Stones!

BALL DONOR - ALAN COUCH

NICK DUGARD

Nick updates us on a number of operational matters

ood afternoon everyone NON-LEAGUE DAY - I am doing who is focussing on stadium and a warm welcome a wash up with the Prostate management and the operational to our visitors whom Cancer Charity after our very side of things so all will be Ghave made the long trip from successful event two weeks thrown in at the deep end! Cornwall. Truro of course have ago. My contacts at PCUK were If YOU fancy getting involved made a strong start to the absolutely delighted at YOUR in volunteering please see me at season and we will no doubt support on the day via the a game or email me! face another tough game bucket collections, etc and by We are looking at a number today. Bring it on!! now you may have seen some of other projects to potentially great social media publicity. My include a Craft Ale Fair next Here are some updates on a understanding as I type these season and Leo and I have number of operational matters: notes are that we achieved already met with CAMRA for something of a record per head advice. STAND UP FOR WEALDSTONE in terms of the collection take I am also working closely (SUFW)- This fundraiser that totalled well over £300. The with Markie Barton (wearing my continues to be a highly club will also be adding to the supporters club hat) on the Kerry important for the club and the donations with a cheque so we Dixon Evening on 4th November. playing budget and a fantastic will arrange a presentation. A It’s already almost a sell out but way to recognise your favourite big THANK YOU for your great see Markie or Leo at the bar for player LEGEND; or it could be support on the day. In terms of tickets – there may still be a few a friend/ official of the past or numbers through the gate, yes, left today. £25 a pop. a family loved one! Check out we can always do better (and we On the commercial side the official website under the will) but when we did the overall of things, if you have any commercial tab and you will see analysis and breakdown it was advertising leads to follow up the updated donations listing still a very strong and additional please see me or Carol. An with all the details. My thanks paying gate on top of our 506 example of this recently is the to everyone who has so far season tickets holders. new advert in the programme donated BUT WE NEED MANY I am currently working with for Barretts Pub in Wealdstone. MORE DONATIONS TO REACH a number of under graduate Thanks to Mark McManus we OUR TARGET! If you have any students from the UCFB followed up and we wrapped queries or questions contact me University, Wembley campus. this up quickly with great support at [email protected] or see UCFB is a specialist football from Freddie Patmore and Mark me at a match or speak to our University, web: https://www. Hyde. website supremo Alan Hill. My ucfb.com/ and we are working In closing, and being the thanks to Alan who is doing a in association with the National opinionated person that I am (no great job on the website admin League; the aim is to work apologies for that!) the degree and the Megastore boys, Mark with the students in a mutually of negativity that sometimes and Adam. Donations can be beneficial way across agreed arises around the club is getting made on-line via this link: projects. So welcome Ben and out of proportion and does have http://www.wfcmegastore. Marshall today who will be consequences for the team out co.uk/special-offers/1293-stand- immersing themselves within the on the park. If you have issues up-for-wealdstone.html Stones crowd today – they will why not front them up face to Towards the end of the current be working on various marketing face at the next Q&A session season we’ll decide the best way projects from an agreed – we will be arranging more to display all your nominations brief, to include a supporter following the first very lively but that will take into account a non- experience survey and other positive session last month. damage mounting in a suitable marketing projects. I am also UTS! position for all to see. expecting Joe from UCFB today Nick FROM THE DUGOUT

BACK THE LADS, MAKE PLENTY OF NOISE AND THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR SUPPORT

would like to welcome can see it in the eyes of the the players and officials boys that they are starting to of Truro City Football understand the expectations IClub. and what it takes to do well in this league. Our last 2 games have seen At the time of writing Eddie us return 4 points, keeping Oshidi and Matt Wichelow the winning home run going have both trained so should and staying unbeaten away be available for selection from home in the league. which is a great boost. Elliot The performance against Benyon is now jogging so Whitehawk saw the boys yet also close to coming back again demonstrate character into contention but may not against a team who raised make it for today but having their game coming here and these lads back gives us who will not be bottom of the some more options and league come the end of the particularly the experience season. Chippenham have they all bring. lost 3 home league games We face a tough opponent in the last 15 months so the in Truro who are second in point will be a valuable one the league and have started as they will not lose many at the season extremely well. home this year. If we continue They will provide tough a to win games at the Vale and great test for us but we will pick up as many points as we give it everything to be the can on the road we will not be best team on the day and far away from where we all take 3 points. The away want to be. support at Chippenham We are very pleased with was exceptional and the progress, the boys are the togetherness and bonding well, we continue to appreciation makes you the climb up the league and in 12th man so more of the terms of form over the last 5 same today please. games we sit fourth. Lots of positives to take forward and we only look to get better. We are becoming a more Thank you resilient side and teams we play against know they are Bobby and the in a game. The belief within management team the squad is growing and we THIS ISSUE EE TAKES US BACK TO HIS YOUTH AS HE FLICKS TO KICK WITH SUBBUTEO BY SUDHIR RAWAL

ack in the day, before computers, before FIFA, before childhoods Bspent mostly indoors in fear of the imaginary bogeyman, we used to play board games, in between spending morning to dusk out playing at the weekends or holidays, and amongst the best was Subbuteo. Maybe the single greatest game ever invented. Certainly the greatest to ever be invented in Tunbridge Wells. That’s where, in the back room of his WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS - JUST DONT ASK HOW LONG mother’s house, Peter Adolph THE FLOODLIGHT BATTERIES LASTED conceived of a table football game in 1947 that he named The basic kit involved a green base they stood on. This was after his favourite bird: the baize pitch, two flimsy plastic much easier said than done. Falco subbuteo, also known goals with nets, two teams The keepers were differently as the Eurasian hobby. of eleven miniature players bodied than the outfielders. They perched on weighted bases, had their hands permanently a ball and a vivid imagination. extended upwards in the Simple yet magnificent. Or was stretching position and were it? Was it the uncoolest game attached to a stick that went from the world’s uncoolest under the goal so the defending town? Too geeky for cool kids. player could move them around Too easy to stamp or kneel on the area to thwart the attacking a player, rendering a trip to the team. They looked the part but kitchen cupboard to find some were essentially powerless glue or sellotape to stick a player against any shot from inside the back together again. Of course box that was hit properly. he was never the same again. What made the game different Flimsy and weak, a shadow of from most other table top sports his former self. games were the hundreds of ‘Flick to kick’ was the slogan team kits and accessories? and the object was to usher While most games featured only the ball towards the goal using two teams (usually “red vs blue” JEROME OKIMO He’s back at The Vale, your thumb and index finger to or “white vs black”), Subbuteo though possibly not as fresh faced as he appears in this 2013 squad picture propel the tiny figurines, or at had several hundred-team MINI MIGHTY STONES least propel the semi-circular designs, almost all representing ELMSLIE ENDER real teams, with the notable came shiner and sexier games, exception of comic book Striker for example, where you legends Melchester Rovers. pressed the head of player to While there were many famous kick the ball. As good as it was it teams such as Chelsea, wasn’t Subbuteo. As enormously Manchester City, and Real popular Subbuteo was, computer Madrid, (and Sunderland..Ed.) games were readying the these were complemented nails in the coffin for the green by many unique sides, baize. The game fell into slow such as Boston Minutemen, decline and then vanished from Landskrona, Antwerp, Hartford the shops entirely, despite at Bicentennials, Admira Wacker, its height having tournaments and even unpainted models. screened on television. There are also many additional if. If your Mum was ahead of But it’s back, Hasbro brought accessories, such as new balls the game in the ‘elf and safety it back in 2012 actually and now and goals, special figures for malarkey, we fastidiously there is a World Cup and of free kicks and throw-ins, stands smoothed out the inevitable course, like most things invented and crowd, linesmen, ball- wrinkles, persuading ourselves in Bllghtly, Johnny Foreigner boys, streakers and policemen, that we were the Subbuteo wins it. floodlights, TV cameras and equivalent of the groundsman I bought a set for my boys even a mini-Her Majesty the driving a roller across a rutted and then a few years later Queen to present the FA Cup. field to try to make it flat. Then, another one for my nephew, but You could pretend Everton were we contorted our way around the neither lasted past the Christmas Wealdstone. Whatever your pitch, gymnastically writhing into decorations. Back in the team, there was a kit for it. position, balancing precariously cupboard, not seeing the light of Most of the time I either on one hand while trying to day, I thought it would be the last played at home or at my mate dribble and shoot with the I see of the grand game. That Mark Barnwell’s (Barney’s) other. After a couple of hours of was until we played at Bath. house, with his older brother, crouching, stretching and careful My eye was caught by a tweet Ian, the man in charge. He manoeuvring to avoid breaking from a Bath fan saying if any was like the headmaster, or any other players under our feet, Stones fans fancied a game at the HMRC vat man that he we rose from the carpet with the the Maulden Arms, they had a later became, more concerned tortured gait of the prisoners of match set and ready to play. that a clumsy scrawny kid like war on an episode of Tenko. Of we , well No 1 son and Tom me wouldn’t break one of his Subbuteo was the King of Marshall, jumped into a cab and players. It did happen quite a board games but then along made our way as fast as the bit. You had to have room driver could navigate the that was big enough to lay busy streets of the lovely out the field and allow space Georgian City. Game on for us to clamber along and unlike in our day, the the sidelines reaching our game was set on a table not players, otherwise career the floor, so aching backs ending injuries could befall were avoided; players being the players. crunched and maimed were Before a kick could be too. Two teams set in the flicked, there were certain back and white stripes of pre-match rituals to be the Romans and the blue of performed. The most crucial the Stones. We flicked, we of these was the ironing manoeuvred, learned the of the baize pitch. Not all rules on the hoof and maybe mothers were willing to with portents for the main sanction this part of the event later, two goalless process, reckoning handing draws were played out. It a child a steam iron in was probably the highlight of a confined space was a my day! potential violation of health and safety regulations. As SUD

SUPPORTERS CLUB Victor Klarfeld UPDATE

our next 2 games is concerned you can collect your winnings due to the close proximity of from MIM at the end of the game Welling and Dartford and the from the Supporters Club shop. fact that they can be done using Tickets for the Supporters an Oyster Card substantially Club Evening with Kerry Dixon ood afternoon one and cheaper than running a coach to on Saturday November 4th are all and today on behalf these places means we won’t be close to selling out so if you of Wealdstone FC running one. wish to go please enquire at the GSupporters Club I would like Whilst on the subject of away Supporters Club Shop. to extend a warm welcome Travel I would like to thank For our younger fans, please to the Players,Officials and everyone that has supported remember to bring your Junior Supporters of Truro City F.C the coaches that we have run Stones Loyalty Card to the to Bath and to Chippenham Megastore to get it stamped so Last season both games last Saturday and hope you are that you will be one stamp closer between the two sides were enjoying a better standard of to receiving your free Stones won by the away team and the Coach this season especially gift. If you are under 14 and do game here saw an outstanding the ports on the back of every not have a card, they are free performance from the Truro seat for your mobile phone. from the Megastore. Collect six ginger haired centre half ( I cant Do not forget to see MIM for stamps and a free hat, scarf, remember his name) who was your golden goal tickets, for just mug, pennant, coaster or fridge voted man of the match by our £1 you can win £50 should get magnet could be yours! Match Sponsors, the only time a the correct time of the first goal visiting player has ever got the #UTS or £10 for the last goal of the award !! game.Should you be a winner As far as away Travel for Victor

MATCH SPONSOR UPDATE DOUGLAS JOHN WEST

Sponsorship in all it’s forms is of vital importance to the club. Our match against Whitehawk saw the game sponsored for Douglas John West by a large group of his friends as part of his Stag weekend. Party organizer Andrew Ledger took time to thank the club as follows… I just wanted to write a few lines to say thank you to everyone involved with our match sponsorship last weekend. All of us - especially Doug - had a fantastic day, and we were made to feel so welcome by the staff at Wealdstone. We hope to make it back for a game in the near future, so all the best to everyone at the club. WEALDSTONE v TRURO CITY ALAN O’BRIEN INTERVIEW I was excited to come to Wealdstone..good crowds, lovely pitch.. it’s like being back in the League again LAN O’BRIEN is not one to drop names into the conversation. ABut in Wealdstone terms he can probably out-Little Glenn Little with some stand-out memo- ries from his time playing with the ‘big boys’ at Newcastle in the , and internationally for the Republic of Ireland. TIM PARKS on the man who’s played on a bigger stage Our left-winger was happy to chat for an hour while driving north to Manchester last the travelling... I still think I can are horrible to watch, because week, the sort of trip that is pretty affect games, get past people, teams will come to spoil and much commonplace for a man get crosses into the box. I think I upset our rhythm, so you have to who now buys and sells cars for can play a decent part in getting be able to mix it up a bit. Find a a living. Wealdstone into the National way to win those games. ‘Yes, I’m used to spending a lot League. “He’s the most passionate, of time on the motorway now - not ‘Bobby (Wilkinson) has been most committed person I’ve ever ideal if you’ve just got a back inju- great for me, as much a friend met in football and his quest is to ry!’ said the 32-year-old Dubliner. as a manager. I was excited get that passion into the hearts He laughed off my suggestion when he asked me over to play of the players.” of a beady seat cover (“ideal for for Wealdstone - I came off the Alan has clearly not lost his restoring circulation” according to bench for Hungerford here last own love of the game. So where the advertising blurb) that might season and I really liked the did it all start and what is the hasten his return after the knock place. The atmosphere is very story of his life in football? he received in the early stages good, the fans are really pas- ‘Wow, how far back do you against Whitehawk last week. sionate and the pitch is lovely. want to go?! Well, it started “Injuries seem to be part and It’s a bit like playing for a League for me at the age of 11 or 12... parcel of my life as a footballer” club again. I didn’t really play the game he reflected. “I can’t deny that that “And to be honest the squad before that, I was more into I’ve thought more than once in the here is impressive - technically Gaelic Football but then I was last couple of years about hang- as good as any I’ve seen since out having a kick-around with my ing up my boots, but I just love my days in the League. Bobby mates in Dublin and somebody the game so much. The craic, is right though: Sometimes from Cabinteely FC asked to me the training, the matches, even you’re going to have games that to go and train with them. From WEALDSTONE v TRURO CITY ALAN O’BRIEN INTERVIEW

there it was on to St Josephs who are a youth football club with great links to the English game. A feeder club really. “I played for the Republic at un- der 14s, under-15, under-16s and under-19s level, and Newcastle came in for me at the age of 16 when I moved away from my family in Dublin to live in the North East. A very young age to be away from home - it wasn’t easy. “After a couple of years of youth and reserve football I was sent out on loan to Carlisle Unit- ed. I didn’t want to go, I was only a boy but it helped me enormous- ly - really toughened me up. I was in a men’s environment and one where the results really mattered. I scored within ten minutes of my debut for Carlisle and that helped endear me to the fans but in truth I’ve not scored nearly as many goals as I should have done.. I’ve got a shocking record. Just five goals in all my appearances in the league and non-League! “One great memory of nearly scoring was on my full interna- tional debut for the Republic of Ireland against Holland in August 2006. It was a friendly and I came off the bench in the second half Alan in the colours of Newcastle, Hibernian (where he appeared as against a fantastic Dutch side a Scottish Prem Panini sticker!), Swindon Town and Yeovil Town (van Persie, Huntelaar, Arjen times that first season (2005-6) but we had a lot of injuries and Robben, van der Vaart etc etc) in the Premier League but my I was down to wear the No.3 who were stuffing us 4-0. I got only full 90 minutes was against shirt against probably the best away on the left and hit a low shot West Ham the following season player in the world at that time. that was saved by Edwin van der when we won 1-0. Alan Shearer But commonsense won the day Saar, though Robbie Keane was got the winner close to the end”. - Souey decided that to make in the middle complaining that (I Googled this game and my debut, out of position, at I should have squared it. That it was in fact Alan Shearer’s Old Trafford would have been would have been a notable addi- record-equalling 200th goal for a bit much. He drafted in David tion to my goals tally. But we drew Newcastle in front of a 50,000+ Edgar, a centre back, to play 0-0 while I was on the pitch! crowd. He broke Jackie Mil- there and he did really well to “ But yes, after I came back burn’s Toon goalscoring record keep Ronaldo quiet for the 90 from that loan spell at Carlisle in the next game) minutes. Probably more than I the Newcastle manager Graeme lan has an even better would have done!” Souness put me straight into the memory of his ac- In the summer of 2007, with first team squad. I thought he was tual debut for Newcastle Glenn Roeder now in charge at a great manager, very straight Ahowever. He was expecting to Newcastle, Alan was the subject and you were either good enough make his bow at left-back for of a bid by Hibernian (reportedly or you weren’t. No messing the club at Old Trafford, marking costing them £300,000 com- about. Cristiano Ronaldo! pensation). Roeder, with a small “I came off the bench a few “Thankfully it didn’t happen, squad, didn’t want him to go but WEALDSTONE v TRURO CITY ALAN O’BRIEN INTERVIEW

wingers Damien Duff and Alberto Luque were ahead of him in the St James’ Park pecking order and Alan just wanted to be playing matches. “Was it a mistake to leave Newcastle? No, not a mistake as it was financially a good move for me and I knew I would be in the starting XI. But I was progressing at Newcastle and as it turned out Lookalike corner Duff got injured that next season, HERE’S proof that our winger Alan which would have given me a O’Brien has been leading a secret chance to break through. double life as Belgian international “But Hibs were a good club centre forward Laurent Depoitre and to play at Parkhead against (above). When allegedly unavail- Celtic, and at Ibrox against Rang- able through injury, O’Brien has ers are the sort of games you been zooming up the M1 and stepping into his customised never forget.” platform boots, adding four inches to his height and turning out for Huddersfield in the Premier League. lan had started his first full game for the Republic only “I suppose it had to come out sooner or later” said the a few months earlier - and Irishman, who admits he has struggled speaking Flemish in Ait turned out to be his last. his other life. “Apart from the money there have been some benefits” said O’Brien. Have you met Depoitre’s girlfriend “Yeah, it was a real shame as Shana (above right)?” I had played four times as substi- tute the previous season, coming on in European Championship ing injury, this time a hamstring, asked him. qualifiers against Germany (lost saw him make just 30 appear- “Well, I can’t deny it’s tough. 0-1 to a Podolski goal), Cyprus ances in his two years at the I work with Gordon Greer, who (lost 5-2) and the Czech Republic County Ground. plays for Kilmarnock and was (drew 1-1 with a Kevin Kilbane Then it was off to League Two my captain at Swindon, in our equaliser) as well as the Holland Yeovil - and then Gateshead in own business selling new and game. the Conference National. Not used cars. I was working for “Then we had a friendly in Bos- the most convenient of moves? Mercedes and managed to sell ton, Massachussetts against Bo- I asked. lots of cars to friends in the livia at the Foxborough Stadium. I “Definitely not - especially as game, just passing on Mer- was in the starting XI and Shane my ex-girlfriend had just had cedes’ number, and Gordon Long headed us in front from my a baby girl and I was spend- and I just thought: Why don’t we left-wing cross (it’s there on You ing most of the week travelling work in the same business for Tube) after just 12 minutes.. it from Swindon up to the North ourselves? ended 1-1 and Bolivia used it as East! “Gateshead had made “It’s going well. We can get a warm-up for their Copa America me a decent offer but it wasn’t our customers better deals than match against Brazil the following ideal. Before long I was back in the dealerships and it’s also a week. Wiltshire and joining Bobby at lot of fun. I live in Swindon, but “So not a bad result. But it was Hungerford. I’ve got friends in London and my last involvement with the na- “I was there for five years my family in Dublin so I organise tional team and possibly my move and we had some good times, my time around training, and to Hibs at that time didn’t help”. including three promotions. matches, and seeing my daugh- Alan suffered a bad knee injury Then I signed for Chippenham ter who’s now five. I pick her in his first season at Easter Road, last summer, just because I up from school on Fridays and but played pretty much the whole fancied a change. And now I also have Sundays with her, of the 2008-9 season. He then Wealdstone... Bobby is very which is great. asked to be released early from persuasive!” “Injuries are a pain, but I won’t his contract to sign for Danny How have you found it adjust- give up football just yet. Not Wilson at League One Swindon ing to being part-time after so while I’ve still got the passion”. Town - only for another aggravat- many years in the pro game? I Alan O’Brien

PIC. www.freddiepatmore.com WEALDSTONE v TRURO CITY FAN IN THE STAND Meet Chris, the man behind the Stones TV microphone. He’s ditched Chelsea for Chris enjoys the ambience at his favourite other the other Blues! Chris non- League ground, Bath Name: Chris Woods wanted some they came from. Where do you live? Currently in help and I Woods How do you fit watching Greenford with my other half, but I could gain football, and Wealdstone, into grew up in Northolt. some valuable your family/working life? It’s Are you working (and where?): experience from tough but thankfully I have two Yes. I work behind the bar at the it. Wealdstone replied first and I part-time jobs that are very flex- Hare & Hounds in Greenford and haven’t looked back! ible and can allow me to get to also at the Alec Reed Academy Do you follow any other team? games as much as possible. in Northolt where I work in the Yes, Chelsea. Started going How big a part of your life is Sports Centre. (My bosses will around 98/99 with my dad. The the game? I think anyone who love this free publicity!) trips to Stamford Bridge have is involved in the game that First Stones game attended? somewhat dwindled over the isn’t a player always grew up Leyton Orient last pre-season in years though. wanting to be a footballer. I did, a friendly. Do you prefer lower-League wasn’t good enough but love What or who persuaded you to football? Be honest! Top-flight the game enough to still want to become a Stones fan? I guess football really does give that be involved, and I’m glad I can Nick DuGard & Craig Whitehead wow factor, I remember watch- say I am. can have the credit for that! I had ing Zola and expecting magic Most memorable game/s originally joined just to help out every time he got the ball. But you’ve EVER seen? Chelsea over the summer but eventually non-league and grassroots re- 4-2 Barcelona stands out as the took over Craig’s old job and Nick ally is where the life and soul is, best game I’ve seen live. A true had me doing several press-relat- you can really feel apart of the Mourinho masterclass, 3-0 up in- ed tasks. And after time I would club and feel as if you’re doing side 20 minutes against the best proudly call myself a Stones fan your community a service by team in the world. Ronaldinho now! supporting your local non-league produces some magic to get football club. How did you get involved in them back in the game and JT Stones TV and other PR stuff? Any disadvantages? I think you wins it near the end. I studied Sports Journalism do get these League 1/League And most memorable Weald- down at Southampton Solent 2 sides with a rich non-league stone game, and moment? University for three years and just heritage really forget themselves Southport away last season. wanted to see if any local clubs sometimes and forget where Continued overpage WEALDSTONE v TRURO CITY FAN IN THE STAND

Not just because of the result but the fans. There’s a lot of big teams from the division above that wouldn’t have taken that following, or make as much noise as we did in Southport. What really gets your goat watching football? The big clubs complaining about too many games.Fixture conges- FANTASTIC FOLLOWING tion is a myth! Some of the 300-odd Stones fans at Southport Have you ever played the last season game yourself and most memorable moments? Only he’s on the ball people stand ever Sunday League. Currently up and expect something. He’s Where do you like to stand (or playing for my local pub team! a box of tricks but has an end sit) at the Vale? You’ll find me in One memorable moment is product to that, which is key. the Press Box. scoring an absolute peach of an Benyon - Proper striker, you can What are your expectations own goal, five Jonathan North’s just tell he played in the Football for the Stones for this sea- wouldn’t of saved it. I’ll never hit a League. son? Top 7, minimum expecta- ball sweeter in my life again. Best away trips to watch foot- tion. Any suggestions to improve ball? I love a trip abroad. Being How does the current pro- your Stones -watching experi- in Munich to watch Chelsea win gramme compare with others ence at the Vale? A toilet up the Champions League was you see?What I love about the the Mick Wells Stand end of special. Stones programmes are that the ground could save me a trip What was your highlight of they’re crammed with content, especially when it rains. last season? One that stands not adverts, and it’s different Favourite current Wealdstone out is talking to Gordon Bartlett every week. Visiting journalists line-up (1-11, with reasons)? at the East Thurrock away in the Press Box have also given Too tough, I don’t even know how match. The season had ended, the programme high praise. Bobby does it! we normally do the interviews Any articles or features that Favourite all-time Stones after the game and shake hands you’d like to see? I saw a few line-up (with reasons)? I’ll and give the old “I’ll see you days ago that some clubs have run with this seasons and last next week”, I’m sure he had a had these multimedia pages seasons: North - Easy choice. couple of drinks waiting in the installed into their programmes. Oshodi - Better at RB, also chips bar too, but instead of nipping Basically the reader downloads in with important goals now and off we had a proper long chat an app and hovers their device then. Sellers - Shrewd business about Wealdstone and football in over the page, and then video bringing him in, he’ll play at a general, and you could just see content plays on the device. better level than this. Hamblin how honest and passionate he From a selfish point of view it - Shame to lose him to Hemel, was about the game. He still had would be nice to see one of my he steadied a rocking ship last that spark after a disappointing interviews with Bobby or the season. Brown - Same reason as match and season and to have players like that. You can always Sellers. Plus it’s good to support that after all those years in the just check out our YouTube page local talent. Day - Really grown game too, people like him are anyway! on me already. I’m confident he’ll the reason why people get into What do you think of the bars be a fans favourite this year. Cox football. The man is a legend of and catering at The Vale? Any - Loves a tackle. You know you’re the sport. beers or food you’d like to be getting 100% out of him. Godfrey Best non-League ground added? I’m not too fussy in that - Another who will give you 100%, you’ve visited? Bath. Big aspect. All’s good. a Ryman Champion and credit old-fashioned terraces and a What’s your wealdstone claim to the club. Green - I think after picturesque backdrop. to fame? Mark Hopson drinks in our bad run last year he really Best stadium you’ve EVER my local. stepped up and has improved visited? I’ve always enjoyed game after game. Plus I need a Finally, where do you see the going to Old Trafford, particularly club in five years’ time?Hope - dead-ball specialist! Eisa - What as I’ve never seen United win I like about Abo is that every time fully in the Football League and there! hopefuly still at The Vale.

new signings, could have gone gone have could signings, new : Steve Foster Steve : Picture North alert ever the from save

with a new Manager and full of of full and Manager new a with Foster was next to draw a a draw to next was Foster Chris Woods Chris : Words

A revitalised Whitehawk, Whitehawk, revitalised A Hawks debutant Kodi Lyons- Kodi debutant Hawks 953 : Attendance

the bench. the wrong way with panache. with way wrong

signing Harry Goodger made made Goodger Harry signing Green sent Jorgensen the the Jorgensen sent Green Ngamvoulou

duty with Guyana. Fellow new new Fellow Guyana. with duty awarded a disputed penalty. penalty. disputed a awarded Wellard, Wellard, : used not Subs

Sam Cox away on international international on away Cox Sam Aji Ajibola immediately immediately Ajibola Aji Green, O’Brien (Eisa 36). (Eisa O’Brien Green,

as a makeshift right-back with with right-back makeshift a as Hippolyte-Patrick and Referee Referee and Hippolyte-Patrick Okimo, Fitchett (Goodger 55), 55), (Goodger Fitchett Okimo,

Glenn Wilson making his debut debut his making Wilson Glenn Rose brought down Shaquille Shaquille down brought Rose Williams, Hippolyte-Patrick, Hippolyte-Patrick, Williams,

most notable was centre half half centre was notable most The equaliser arrived when when arrived equaliser The (Brown 81), Sellers, Hill, Day, Day, Hill, Sellers, 81), (Brown

making seven altogether. The The altogether. seven making mounted. : North, Wilson Wilson North, : Wealdstone

Burgess Hill Town last week, week, last Town Hill Burgess inevitable as the attacks attacks the as inevitable

shock 1-0 FA Cup defeat to to defeat Cup FA 1-0 shock and a breakthrough looked looked breakthrough a and from the edge of the area. the of edge the from

changes following Stones Stones following changes harder after the turnaround turnaround the after harder Jonathan North with a shot shot a with North Jonathan

Bobby Wilkinson rung the the rung Wilkinson Bobby Stones pressed much much pressed Stones gasp save out of the excellent excellent the of out save gasp

Simon Jorgensen. Simon held. Dominic Vose pulled a last- a pulled Vose Dominic

when sub Eisa shot past keeper keeper past shot Eisa sub when which the keeper just about about just keeper the which into added time when sub sub when time added into

and won it in the 88th minute minute 88th the in it won and frame of Jorgensen in goal, goal, in Jorgensen of frame were holding their breath deep deep breath their holding were

through a Danny Green penalty penalty Green Danny a through trying to lob the giant 6ft 10” 10” 6ft giant the lob to trying three points, although they they although points, three

but Wealdstone equalised equalised Wealdstone but just before half time when when time half before just another vital home win and and win home vital another

for the Hawks in the first half half first the in Hawks the for attack and he had a chance chance a had he and attack fans a chance to celebrate celebrate to chance a fans

Brown had opened the scoring scoring the opened had Brown more energy to the Stones Stones the to energy more empty net, allowing the home home the allowing net, empty

behind after Kyjuon Marsh- Kyjuon after behind introduction of Eisa brought brought Eisa of introduction the keeper to slot into an an into slot to keeper the

from come to had Stones The The forced first half half first forced The tremendous pace and rounded rounded and pace tremendous

on 28 minutes. 28 on Okimo, he beat his man with with man his beat he Okimo,

a curling, low effort past North North past effort low curling, a 953. of crowd Day League headed to Eisa by Jerome Jerome by Eisa to headed

he beat Glenn Wilson and sent sent and Wilson Glenn beat he Non- boisterous a of front in Jorgensen was powerfully powerfully was Jorgensen

Hawks a deserved lead when when lead deserved a Hawks Saturday on Vale Grosvenor debacle. A goal kick from from kick goal A debacle.

Marsh-Brown then gave the the gave then Marsh-Brown at Whitehawk table the of of the previous week’s week’s previous the of

range. bottom over victory grab victory to reverse the fortunes fortunes the reverse to victory

A

dramatically grabbed the the grabbed dramatically close from Andoh Enoch and smash-and- textbook a

But late on the Stones Stones the on late But Gueye Pape denying North Wealdstone gave

wide. Jonathan with opener, Brown’s winner late dramatic

when his header was tipped tipped was header his when Marsh- before twice ahead Eisa’s bobaker

Wealdstone 2 Whitehawk 1 Whitehawk 2 Wealdstone

07/10/2017

SOUTH LEAGUE

NATIONAL VANARAMA VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE SOUTH 14/10/2017 Chippenham 0 Wealdstone 0

ealdstone slugged excellent home record and match. out a typically hard after their bad result last week. Then, 4 minutes later, fought National We looked more composed Sellers was upended with a WLeague South match at in the second half and had two- footed challenge and Hardenhuish Park on enough chances to win the Guthrie was shown red. There Saturday and came away game 2 or even 3 nil, so was no discernible difference with another point that keeps frustrating in that sense. No, for much of the remainder of them in 12th spot in the we didn’t get the win but I felt the half as Stones struggled league with other clubs in FA it was a particularly good team to break down a stubborn Cup action. performance today” Blue Birds defence despite Asked about the possible several corners and free kicks The main talking point in this return of key injured players, awarded to the away side. encounter was the sending- off Oshodi, Matty Whichelow, Stones looked more of the Blue Birds No 11 Jamie Elliot Benyon and Alan composed in the second Guthrie after only 24 minutes O’Brien, he said: “They all period and pushed up with play for an awful foul on the need extra treatment and greater tempo. After Day had match-long battered Ryan most are still 50/50 at best for lost the ball to Pratt and North Sellers, meaning that Stones next week, they will probably came to the rescue the same had a man advantage for need more time to be fully player, Day, almost found the much of this clash of two sides recovered” net but Thompson expertly with polar opposite home and Chippenham started very tipped over the header. away records. However, those strongly and burst into Stones Abo Eisa was introduced experienced in the game will box from the kick-off but the and made an immediate know that losing a player can danger was cleared for a very impact with some good create as much of a challenge early scare. Sam Cox made a runs at goal as did the wily for the team with the supposed welcome return to the starting Harry Goodger. Stones were advantage as the depleted line in the centre of midfield desperately unlucky with an side doubles up and is usually and immediately made his ‘almost’ own goal that bounced psychologically spurred on - presence felt with some off the upright and then from and so it proved. close attention and crunching the resultant melee Thompson Not that the away side tackles. saved again in the 60th didn’t have their chances The Blue Birds main threat minute. because they did have several, came from their experienced The game then settled into particularly in a better second ex Bath City striker Dave Pratt a kind of entertaining war of period on a pitch that looked who was thorn in the side of attrition with both sides trying like it needed a good cut. Stones defence all afternoon to nick the win. Goodger to Stones problems in front of with his strong, clever running his credit battled to carve out goal continue to frustrate off the shoulder. The home a couple of late chances with and is clearly a priority for side continued to dominate the his muscle power that were Manager Bobby Wilkinson who danger area possession in the blasted wide. nevertheless was pleased with first period and were picking a clean sheet and, overall, a up the loose ball better than Wealdstone: North, Wilson, sound defensive performance Wealdstone. Sellers, Hill, Day, Williams, still without the key athleticism Stones had a great chance Cox, Okimo, Fitchett, Green, of Eddie Oshodi, out of the side to take the lead on 20 minutes Hippolyte-Patrick. Subs used: with a back injury. when a powerful strike from Goodger, Eisa, Wellard After the game Bobby Matt Day through a crowd Subs not used: Brown, Wilkinson was quick to praise of bodies in the box was Ngamvoulou his players: “I am pleased somehow held by excellent overall – it was always going ‘keeper Jared Thompson who Attendance:723 to be a tough one with their was later named man of the Words: Nick DuGard