Bedford Town It Seems an Eternity Since We Last Played

Home , Danny Cowley, Ethan Pinnock, Jamal Lowe, Lewis Ochoa, Rowan Vine, Sam Clucas

HARTLEY WINTNEY FC HISTORY

Hartley Wintney Football Club History Hartley Wintney Football Club was founded in the North Hampshire village of Hartley Wintney in 1897 and played in an area adjacent to the village's golf and cricket clubs, the facilities not quite being up to today's standard, with only a horse trough or the pond to remove the heavy mud from a sub-standard pitch. The Club's nickname of 'The Row' comes from 'Hartley Row', a former hamlet within Hartley Wintney. In 1953, the club moved to its present ground in Green Lane, known as 'The Memorial Ground'. A pavilion was erected and the team played in the Basingstoke League and, later, in the Aldershot League. In 1973, an influx of players under new manager Glynn Howell put the club firmly on the local football map. In his six year reign, the team won the Aldershot Senior League three times in succession, and the Aldershot Senior Cup. After several seasons in the Aldershot Senior League, Hartley were admitted to the Combined Counties League (previously Surrey Senior League). After the first couple of seasons and two changes of management, the club appointed Ian Bedford, and once again an influx of senior players brought Hartley success. Within his three years in management, they gained trophies including the League Title (1982-1983) and Runners Up (1981-1982), Aldershot Senior Cup Winners (1980-1981), and George Allen Cup Win- ners (1981-1982). They were also Runners Up in the League Cup (1982-1983) and Al- dershot Senior Cup (1981-1982). The club gained promotion from Division One of the Combined Counties League in 2007-08 under manager Mike Scott, but 08-09 began poorly and, despite a change of management, the season ended in relegation by a narrow margin. Under the management team of Pete Gray and John Condon, the first team rallied in 09-10, finishing 5th in CCL Div. 1, and 7th in season 10-11 under manager Louis King after Pete Gray had stepped down for family reasons. The 2011-12 season under manager Neville Roach, Assistant Mick Wollen and Coach Scott Tarr was a notable one for the club as they again achieved promotion to the Com- bined Counties League Premier Division, as well as having a fine FA Cup run that took them to the Third Qualifying Round. However, end-of-season celebrations were damp- ened when the coaching staff left to join Thatcham Town. The entire squad bar two players departed, so new manager Dave Tuttle was faced with the task of rebuilding a squad competitive enough for the CCL Premier. A string of poor results led to a second change in management in less than 4 months, with 24 year-old ex-Hartley player, Ben Dillon, given his first managerial position already deep into the 2012-13 season. Once again there was an almost total outflow of players from Tuttle's squad, and Ben, with assistants Jason Minton and Joe Lawler, set about rebuilding the squad, but by this time with Hartley set well adrift at the bottom of the table. The introduction of a talented group of players restored the spirit around the club, and in what became known as the club's 'Great Escape' season, Hartley Wintney's place in the CCL Premier was secured against all the odds after a truly remarkable second half of the season.

HARTLEY WINTNEY FC HISTORY

Ben further strengthened the squad for 2013-14, with Steve Saunders and player/coach Dan Brownlie brought in to the coaching setup alongside Jason and Joe. The season started well and there were notable wins in the FA Cup on a run that took the club to the 4th Qualifying Round for the first time in its history. The cup run took its toll on league form but the club finished a creditable 7th in the Premier Division.

After a comfortable 9th place finish in 2014-15, Ben Dillon stepped down and Dan Brownlie and Anthony Millerick were appointed Joint First Team Managers, alongside coaches Joe Lawler and Luke Tuffs. With strong additions to the playing squad, it was an eventful 2015-16 season. After a memorable 1-0 win away at Southern League Mer- thyr Town in the 2nd Qualifying Round of the FA Cup, Hartley took Conference South Eastbourne Borough to the wire, losing out to an injury time winner. In the FA Vase, a longstanding club record was broken by reaching the 5th Round Proper played in front of a sell-out 1,300 at Green Lane against the eventual finalists, Hereford FC. And despite the cup commitments, the club topped the CCL Premier Division for most of the season and claimed the 2015-16 league title. Promotion, however, was denied due to ground grading issues. Faced with huge challenges on and off the pitch - to achieve back-to-back title wins and put in place the necessary ground improvements to take advantage of any second opportunity for promotion - the 2016-17 season was perhaps the club's best yet, topping the Combined Counties League Premier Division for the entire season, reaching the semi-finals of the Hampshire senior county cup and the final of the Aldershot Senior Cup, and securing the required ground grading to allow the club to take its place in The Evo-Stik (Southern) League South; the first time in its history that the club has made it to Step 4 of the English football pyramid. To top off a wonderful 2016-17 season, our young Youth team won the Hampshire FA Youth Midweek Floodlit Cup, winning on penalties against a strong Aldershot Town U18. Hartley Wintney FC has come a long way, from 'village side' in every sense of the term, to today's 7 days a week modern football club. The football club has established a clear line of progression for young players with the establishment of an U18 Youth setup, currently playing in the Allied Counties Youth League, a Reserve team playing in the Suburban League, and an A Team playing in the Aldershot & District Football League. MEMBER OF: THE EVO-STIK LEAGUE SOUTH THE SUBURBAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE THE ALDERSHOT & DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE THE ALLIED COUNTIES YOUTH FOOTBALL LEAGUE AFFILIATED TO THE HAMPSHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION

WELCOME TO HARTLEY WINTNEY FC

EVO STIK SOUTH, EAST DIVISION Hartley Wintney v Bedford Town It seems an eternity since we last played. Recent Kick Off: 3.00pm results for the Row have not been too favoura- ble. We managed a 2 all draw away to Uxbridge Saturday 06 January 2018 and suffered a 3-1 defeat at Northwood. Since Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen and welcome then our home fixture v Marlow on Boxing Day to the Memorial Ground Hartley Wintney for this fell foul of the weather as did the New Year’s league clash against Bedford Town. To all their play- Day much anticipated derby clash against Fleet ers, officials and supporters we extend a warm wel- Town. come and hope you enjoy your short stay with us Since the last programme issue we have had the here at Hartley Wintney. epic FA Trophy encounter where we just fell Honours were even when the two sides met back in short of causing an upset against Bromley. I October courtesy of a 1 all draw. Hartley’s goal that thought that we were superb as a team and that day was scored by Liam Eagles. Our visitors today are stems from the management through to the currently fourteenth in the league with 28 points players and the volunteers who made the whole from 22 games. A look at their recent results and the day go smoothly. names of their opponents only emphasises the size The day should not be consigned to the annals of our task today. without a huge mention to the Hartley support- Bedford Town current form: ers who turned out to cheer the boys on. The Club appreciate your support as do the players. Dunstable 1 v 0 Bedford 28/11/2017 The Lacey/Dboy choir chirped up in the second half and who knows they might soon be joined Moneyfields 2 v 0 Bedford 02/12/2017 by Matalan Mick Reynolds. Bedford 0 v 1 Hanwell 09/12//2017 Your support for the football team is fantastic. Bedford T 0 v 2 Uxbridge 23/12/2017 Please also support the club house. We are open Cambridge City 5 v 1 Bedford T 26/12/2017 in the week so why not pop in and watch the football on the big screen? Like ourselves Bedford are short of match time since the festive period so today’s game is guaranteed to be com- As always please get behind the boys today. petitive as both sides look to get back into the routine.

v BEDFORD TOWN 06 JANUARY 2018

HARTLEY WINTNEY FOOTBALL CLUB CLUB OFFICIALS SEASON 2017-2018

PRESIDENT: William Mitchell VICE PRESIDENT: Nick Vint CHAIRMAN: Luke Mullen VICE CHAIRMAN: Steve Noakes HON. LIFE VICE PRESIDENTS: Dennis Burgess, David Willoughby, Paddy White, Luke Mullen LIFE VICE PRESIDENT: Brian Barnard VICE PRESIDENTS: Derek Ames, Len Ashby, Ian Bedford, Ann Byelong, Mick Clarke, Lisa Collins, Neil Doody, Paula Flanders, Andrew Harris, Frank Kenton, David Lenthal, Margaret Lewington,Bob Major, Mark Porter, Mike Roberts, Janet Richardson, Niall Scott, Linda Scott, Josie Shipman, Ray Shipman, Andy Spiers, Chris Stanley, Roy Stimpson, Trudy Stimpson, Roger Taplin, Babe Trim- mer, Nick Vint, Elizabeth Webb, Anthony White, David Willoughby & Gerry Wykes TREASURER: Colin Charlton HONORARY SECRETARY: Elayne Duddridge MATCH SECRETARY: Gerry Wykes UNDER 18s SECRETARY: Luke Mullen BAR SECRETARY: Paddy White MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY: Jeremy Fox/Sue Trimmer SOCIAL SECRETARY: Vacant COMMITTEE: Ann Byelong, Dave Williams, Brendan Devlin, Vicki Ta- plin, James Taplin, Jeremy Fox, Ian Brownlie, Paul Wilkins . FIRST TEAM MANAGER: Dan Brownlie, Anthony Millerick FIRST TEAM COACHES: Luke Tuffs RESERVE TEAM MANAGER: Rick Hogsden; Neil Lancaster A TEAM MANAGER: Mark Stimpson YOUTH TEAM MANAGER: Luke Tuffs, MATCH DAY OFFICERS: Ray Boorman, Jeremy Fox PROGRAMME EDITOR: Luke Mullen/ Dan Brownlie WEB DESIGNER/ADMINISTRATOR Kevin O’Byrne

GROUNDSMAN: Eric Howard/David Martin Hartley Wintney F.C. Wintney Hartley Green Lane, Hartley Wintney, Hampshire RG27 8DL Tel: 01252 843586

MILLERS MUSINGS

Happy New Year to you all! Personally I wasn't at the previous meeting with Bedford but speaking with Brown and So its been a funny few weeks since our Tro- the rest of the team, I realise this will be a phy exit, we took a decent point in a frus- very tough game, we will need to stand up tratingly open game at in form Uxbridge and and be counted today. then put in a very disappointing performance at Northwood. I am confident our form will get back to where it was now that our cup distractions We've suffered a little bit with player una- are over. Although we have a lot of games to vailability in those games which has shown play, when the games come so quickly it in the consistency of our performances. In easier to pick up momentum and start both games we played some ok stuff but stringing quick wins together - something we ultimately made too many personal errors in will need to do in order to get back up that vital areas and were pun- table. ished. Enjoy the game today and I look forward to seeing you in Although the Xmas period the bar after. has been massively frus- trating due to the weather it Up the Row has given us all a moment to reflect, look forward and refocus our seasons ambi- tions. We've been training a number of times over the last week or two and the message has been made clear to the players, we've had a great 2017 but we now need to push on as we have a lot to play for in the next few months.

Games will be coming thick and fast and we have recruited a number of players since our last home game to help boost our numbers to ensure we have more strength in depth. These players will be made known to you in the very near future. We have also identified a few more potential players that could add something further but the current crop have been fantastic in getting us to this position, they must be given the opportunity to take us to the next level.

TUFFS TALKING

Good afternoon and welcome to the players, it to the boys when many would have stayed officials and supporters of Bedford Town FC. at home with the family.

It’s been a mixed few weeks with us, the We go into today’s game without Jake Bax- highs of the FA Trophy run and that excellent ter who has left to return to Tooting & performance against Bromley seemingly Mitcham. Jake lives in London and the trav- knocking the wind out of our sails some- elling was a lot for him so he returns with what. our blessing and we thank him for his efforts, and of course, that goal against Farn- We were leggy and well below par but man- borough! aged to come away with a point against Ux- bridge, arguably having a chance to win it at I have been asked by a few people about the the death. squad and are there any signings on the horizon. We were not so fortunate on the Saturday though with a Millers, Brown and myself defeat against Northwood. have been working hard to Another below par first half sign the right players to re saw Northwood stride into a strengthen but they have to 2 goal lead although we man- be the right signings and we aged to get one back. can’t rush into these things. In saying that, expect to see a We had chances to equalise few new faces over the com- and maybe go on and win the game but ulti- ing weeks! mately these came to nothing and North- wood went on to deservedly win and we left Enjoy the game today, with nothing. Tuffs What should have been a busy Christmas period saw the weather put a stop to pro- ceedings on every occasion. First Marlow on Boxing Day followed by the postponement of Fleet on New Year’s Day.

The rest will have done the boys some good and will have given us a chance to regroup.

They have however been training to keep themselves sharp and were even in on Box- ing Day after the game was called off, a cred-

NEW YEAR’S DAY South, East Round-Up

New Year's Day play-off place, after a 3-1 win over second- bottom tenants Aylesbury United. Due to the wet weather, only two of the scheduled six matches in the Evo-Stik The match got off to a quick start, with League South East went ahead on New Thame opening the scoring after only 2 Year`s Day. minutes when Lynton Goss through on goal and calmly placed the ball wide of Ducks` However, one of those was the derby at the keeper Jack Sillitoe. New Eyrie between Bedford Town and leaders AFC Rushden & Then on 13 minutes, Diamonds. Lynton Goss delivered the free-kick on to the And a crowd of 590 head of Dan West, who saw a lively first half beat Sillitoe via the played in heavy condi- underside of bar for 2- tions in which neither 0. side could trouble the scorers. However, it became 2-1 on 69 minutes when a corner was headed home from But the deadlock was broken after 67 close range by Tre Mitford. minutes as Diamonds sub Ben Diamond provided the assist as Ben Farrell re- But Thame re-instated the two-goal cushion directed the ball past Eagles` keeper Kyle 5 minutes later with another Goss assist for Forster and into the net. West again to head wide of Sillitoe and in to the back of the net. The visitors almost added a second in the 81st minute when a cross-cum-shot from Source Pitchero Non League / Steve Diamond had to be tipped over the bar by Wintney Forster.

However, just before the end of normal time, Diamonds` left-back Sam Brown hooked the ball off the line to prevent a Bedford leveller.

Diamonds now possess a five-point lead over second-placed AFC Dunstable, and have a game in hand too.

The day`s only other game saw Thame Unit- ed move up to seventh, three points off a

NEW YEAR’S DAY South, West Round-Up

Salisbury FC moved to within seven points of Both Winchester City and AFC Totton missed Evo-Stik League South West leaders Taunton the chance to move into the top six when Town on New Year`s Day after the Whites they shared a 1-1 draw at the Denplan. beat neighbours Wimborne Town, while the A crowd of 325 saw Ollie Bailey give City the Peacocks` home game with Bideford AFC was lead 4 minutes after half-time, only for Alfy one of three that fell to waterlogged pitches. Whittingham to restore parity on the hour- mark from the penalty spot. In front of a crowd of 902, it was a hard slog for the players, and fourth-placed Wimborne made it tough for Steve Evesham United were Claridge`s side. another side who could But the home side took have slipped into the the lead after 11 play-off places had they minutes when Danny won at home to lowly Young cut in and hit an Shortwood United.But effort which Owen Howe Evesham had to be con- guided past Gerard Ben- tent with a point from a field via a touch off a defender. 2-2 draw in which the home side will be ruing The Whites weren`t able to kill off the Mag- missing several clear-cut opportunities. They pies though until 2 minutes into stoppage were behind, however, when Nick Rhodes time at the end of the game when Stuart put through his own goal after just 8 minutes Green raced through to beat Benfield and But two goals in a minute midway through make it 2-0. The win made it nine points from the first half from Adam Mann and Matt Lid- the nine available for Salisbury over the fes- diard put Evesham in control. tive period. However, Chris Earle earned Shortwood a point in the 74th minute.

Swindon Supermarine missed the chance to move into the top four when they were held Source Pitchero Non League / Steve Wintney to a 2-2 draw at the WebbsWood by mid- table Kidlington. The visitors got off to a great start when Anaclet Odhiambo put them in front after just 3 minutes. It wasn`t until 5 minutes into the second half that Ryan Campbell pulled `Marine back on level terms and then, just 3 minutes after that, Josh Parsons put them in front. But Declan Benjamin earned Kidlington a point with the leveller on the hour-mark.

ONE SIDE OF THE DUGOUT

Happy New Year! I think it fair to say that if a Hartley quiz is ever created 2017 as an answer should be Welcome back to Our House for this after- a safe bet! noon's game against Bedford Town. The first target of 2018 is to get back to Our last fixture was back on the 23rd De- winning ways and whilst we realise what cember having had two games postponed we are up against with Bedford, we want in quick succession. This did give that to start today. We need to us an opportunity to freshen up, continue kicking on and moving rest a few injuries and illnesses forward in which we all have a and get back on the training responsibility. pitch which we haven't been able to do in quite some time The players must have that inner due to the amount of games. We desire to want to progress, devel- are going to have games on both op and improve - this team has a Saturday and Tuesday up until the end of not shown its full potential yet. We've the season now, so our entire squad list seen moments of what it can do, but we has to be utilised. now need to show a sustained period that is a true reflection of the capabilities of the Jake Baxter has decided to re-join Tooting individuals within it. & Mitcham - we thank Jake for his short spell with us and we of course will remem- The boys are ready for the second half of ber him for the winner away at Farnbor- the season, we hope you are too. Strap ough. He really enjoyed his time with us, yourselves in!! but the travel became too much. Enjoy the game Millers and I are currently looking at a few db options as replacements and will be bring- ing at least one in over the next few days.

2017 wasn't a bad year was it?  CCL Champions  Hampshire Cup Finalists,  Promotion to Evo Stik,  a good FA Trophy run in which we beat Farnborough,  a good FA Cup run where we de- feated Basingstoke Town and  finishing with 35 wins from 55 games scoring 129!

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT HARTLEY WINTNEY FC

Saturday 6th January 2018 Fleetwood Town v Leicester City FA Cup 3rd Round 12:45 BBC One Norwich City v Chelsea FA Cup 3rd Round 17:30 BT Sport 2

Sunday 7th January 2018 Newport County v Leeds United FA Cup 3rd Round 12:00 BBC One Wales Shrewsbury Town v West Ham FA Cup 3rd Round 14:00 BBC One Nottingham Forest v Arsenal FA Cup 3rd Round 16:00 BT Sport 2

Monday 8th January 2018 Brighton & Hove Albion v Crystal Palace FA Cup 3rd Round 19:45 BT Sport 2

Tuesday 9th January 2018 Man City v Bristol City Carabao Cup Semi-Final 1st Leg 19:45 Sky Sports Football

Wednesday 10th January 2018 Chelsea v Arsenal Carabao Cup Semi-Final 1st Leg 20:00 Sky Sports Football

Friday 12th January 2018 Sheffield United v Sheffield Wednesday 19:45 Sky Sports Football

Saturday 13th January 2018 Cardiff City v Sunderland 12:30 Sky Sports Football Tottenham Hotspur v Everton 17:30 BT Sport 1

Sunday 14th January 2018 AFC Bournemouth v Arsenal 13:30 Sky Sports Premier League Liverpool v Man City 16:00 Sky Sports Premier League

HARTLEY WINTNEY FC GROUND REGULATIONS

1. All persons entering this ground are only admitted subject to these rules and the rules and regulations of the Football Association. 2. The Club reserves the right to prosecute or to eject or cause to be ejected any persons who within the ground or the club premises is considered by the Club its em- ployees or agents (hereinafter called the Club) in their absolute discretion to be, or to have been behaving in any of the following ways: (a) Entering the field of play before or during the course of a game. The field of play is that area within the railings surrounding the perimeter of the pitch and the area beyond the goal line at the Southern Haye end of the ground. (b) Using obscene or abusive language or persistent swearing. (c) Being drunk or under the influence of drink or drugs to any degree. (d) Making vulgar gestures. (e) Using abusive language or behaviour, racial or otherwise. 3. NO bottles, metal cans, glasses, placards, firearms, knives or other similar articles are permitted and the police and club stewards have the right to search any spectator at anytime and to confiscate any article which they consider could be a danger to any other spectators. 4. NO alcohol is to be consumed within the ground. Alcohol may only be consumed within the confines of the clubhouse or other such designated and properly li- censed area. All bar areas will close fifteen minutes before kick off time. 5. Climbing of floodlight pylons, fences, stands and other buildings is strictly forbid- den and the police and club stewards have the right to eject any persons found doing so. 6. Spectators are advised that they must keep to the designated hard standings within the confines of the ground, these being defined as the walkway to the perimeter of the pitch on 3 sides excluding the area to Southern Haye behind the top goal, the dedicated stand and the sheltered area outside the club house. 7. Spectators are reminded that they must not retrieve any footballs that go in the hedges or rough grass areas. The Club will not be responsible for any injury sustained by any spectator retrieving footballs howsoever caused. A Club Official or designated ball boy will retrieve any balls that exit the field of play. 8. ALL vehicles parked in and around the ground must be properly parked to ensure access for emergency vehicles and to minimise disruption to local residents. All vehicles are parked strictly at the owner’s risk. 9. No unauthorised vehicles are allowed in the Clubhouse/changing room car parking area. The Club reserves the right to remove any vehicle parked in contravention of this regulation. The Club will not be responsible for any damage caused whilst re- moving the vehicle. By order of The Committee Hartley Wintney Football Club

WHAT THEMILLERICK’S PAPERS SAY: MUSIINGS BROMLEY

Match Report: Hartley Wintney v Bromley which missed the target by some margin. FC, FA Trophy 1st Round Proper On 34 minutes, Rowan Vine found space Hartley Wintney v Bromley FC. The for a shot but Gregory was once more well Buildbase FA Trophy First Round Proper, positioned to save. Two minutes later, the Saturday 16th December 2017 Report by David Graham visitors' first real chance arrived when Al- An inspired performance by Hartley len created space on the right and his cross Wintney was not enough to see them pro- was headed wide by Josh Rees. On 38 gress into the 2nd Round of the Buildbase minutes, a free kick from Dean Stow saw FA Trophy against Bromley. A bumper Rowan Vine almost set up Jake Baxter. crowd of 482 saw the full time Bromley Two minutes later at the other end, Louis side - who play three levels above the Row Dennis fashioned himself a chance for the - put in a strong second half performance to edge through to the next round. visitors and his parting shot was saved by a It was the Row who threatened in the first well-positioned Paul Strudley. Bromley minute when a fine sweeping move saw finished the half strongly and on 42 Paul Hodges find space on the right wing. minutes Roger Johnson fired a shot from His pass found Rowan Vine, who saw his distance which was well held by Strudley. shot saved by a well-positioned David Bromley had another effort before half Gregory in the Bromley goal. time from Frankie Sutherland, after good Much of the visitors' early attacks were via winger Iffy Allen on the right. However, on work by Dominic Voss, which went close. 10 minutes the Row had a second effort when Paul Hodges went on a surging run The Ravens came out for the second peri- and his parting shot found Gregory again od showing a distinct sense of urgency and well positioned to save. The Row contin- started to gain the better of the midfield ued to have most of the play and on 26 play. On 48 minutes, good incisive play minutes a long free kick into the penalty through midfield created a chance for Lou- area by Dean Stow found Liam Eagle, who is Dennis, who shot wide. Six minutes later, was unable to connect. Frankie Sutherland had an effort from dis- A minute later the Row could have been tance comfortably saved by Strudley. On ahead after a crisp move involving Jake the hour mark, a good right wing move Baxter, Rowan Vine and Jack French saw saw Bromley's Josh Rees given a chance Paul Hodges free in the penalty box. The but he shot wide. A minute later, the Hart- Hartley forward, thinking he was possibly ley faithful roared their approval as Liam offside, hesitated slightly and the shot Eagle headed a long free kick from Dean went just over the crossbar. Stow into the net. However, the celebra- Bromley's attacks were spasmodic and tions were cut short by the sight of the usually finished with shots from distance assistant referee’s flag for offside.

MILLERICK’S MUSIINGS WHAT THE PAPERS SAY: BROMLEY

On 66 minutes the visitors had a good FULL TIME: HARTLEY 0 BROMLEY 2: chance when the ball fell kindly for John- Man of the Match: Dean Stow as chosen son, but he blazed wide of the goal. Two by Match Ball Sponsor: Colin Charlton minutes later, Bromley took the lead. After the match, David asked the Hartley The Row lost possession in midfield and joint managers on their views of the game. the ball broke to Josh Rees. With Hartley unable to close him down quickly enough, Rees sent a fierce shot from 25 yards into "For me it was bittersweet," said Anthony the corner of the net. (0-1) Millerick. "Such a great performance from all the team, including substitutes. Howev- On 73 minutes Bromley were awarded a er, ultimately we are out of the Trophy. free kick on the 18 yard line when Johnson Obviously we will reflect on the 'What was impeded. Frankie Sutherland took the might have beens' during the course of the kick but Paul Strudley brought off a good game. We certainly had our chances. The save. Ten minutes later the visitors put offside goal would have made a difference together the best move of the match if it had stood. It must have been close." which left three players with a chance in front of the goal. However, they somehow got their wires crossed and the chance was Dan Brownlie added, "It was our plan to gone. The visitors made the game safe on take the game to them from the off. We 85 minutes. Impressive substitute, Luke knew Bromley would come out strong in Wanadio, had a good run down the right the second half after the first 45 minutes, and his accurate cross found Johnson who and I felt our defence played well through- managed to set up George Porter, who scored easily at the back post. out. For long periods in the first half it was difficult to gauge which team was in the The Row finished strongly but were unable higher league. Very pleased with the sup- to create a clear cut chance to set up an port the big crowd gave us." exciting finale. All in all a good performance from the Row against a side so far above them in the Pyramid. For long periods in the first half they played their best football of the season. However, having created many promising situations they were unable to get the breakthrough. Bromley improved after the break and in the end were deserved victors. However, a great occasion for the Row and a performance in which they could take a lot of pride. [D Graham]

BEDFORDMILLERICK’S TOWN HISTORY MUSIINGS Bedford Town, nickname “The Eagles” was end came in 1982 when the owners of the founded in 1908 and in the early years they football ground in Queens Park exercised played in the United Counties League and its their right to terminate the lease and when predecessors, the Northampton League and plans to build a new stadium near Barkers Northampton Alliance. In 1945, The Eagles moved to the Southern Lane, Bedford, failed, the Club was wound up. League but achieved little during the first seasons. The club received a much needed boost On the 5th May 1989, a group of Eagles sup- when in February 1951 Ronnie Rooke was porters met to start a campaign to re-form signed as Player/Manager. This signing cap- Bedford Town FC, which was so successful tured the imagination of the public for that they obtained Council permission to play “Rookie” was a well known footballer, having their home games on a public pitch in Queens played for Arsenal, Fulham, Crystal Palace Park. With Tony Sullivan as team manager, and England. they were elected to the South Midlands “Giant Killers” However, it was not until season 1955-56 that League and finished fourth. Terry King was the Eagles started on the first of their great tempted out of retirement to team up with cup runs which would see them achieve na- Tony Sullivan for the 1992-93 season and a tional fame as “Giant Killers” with a number number of early wins put them on the way to of fine wins over league opposition including a runaway championship. Watford -3 2, Norwich 2-4, Newcastle 1-2, This meant that the Club had to find their Exeter 1-2, Brighton 2-1 and Oxford 1-0. But own ground in order to be promoted. The possibly their greatest achievement was to Council finally decided a site at Meadow draw 2-2 with Arsenal at Highbury watched Lane, Cardington, a former council tree by a crowd of over 55,000 in season 1955-56. nursery, would be the most appropriate and The Eagles nearly caused a major shock in the with financial support from the council and replay leading 1-0 until 4 minutes from time much hard work from supporters and com- before going down 1-2 after extra time, hav- mittee members, the New Eyrie was ready for ing had 2 goals disallowed for offside. During the opening night game against Peterborough the 60’s, changes of manager were made in a United watched by a crowd of over 3,000. So succession of two year spells with Reg Smith the Eagles went into the SML Premier Divi- taking over from Rooke followed by Basil Hay- sion, won their first game and remained top ward in 1963, Ron Burgess 1965, Ron Heck- of the league all season. Another race against man 1967, Alan Wright 1969, Reg Smith again time saw the ground upgraded and a roller- in 1971, Brian Garvey, Jim Walker, Barry Fry coaster campaign saw Bedford claim the 3rd 1977 and finally Trevor Gould. The last game promotion spot in the final week of the sea- for the Club was against Nuneaton Borough son. away on the 4th May 1982, with the Eagles going down 1-0. And so after 74 years the

MILLERICK’S MUSIINGS BEDFORD TOWN HISTORY

The Eagles started season 1995-96 with competitive game since the club was re- high hopes of a 4th successive promotion. formed. But the team who gained promotion from Season 2000-2001 - The Eagles finishing Division Three never really settled to life runners-up in Ryman Division One, gaining at a higher level, and a string of bad re- promotion to the Premier Division, losing sults meant that relegation was a distinct only four league games all campaign. The possibility. The Committee acted quickly Club also became a Private Limited Com- to bring in Mick Foster from Beazer Homes pany at the beginning of the season and Buckingham Town who brought several David Howell took over the club as Chair- players with him which resulted in the man. Season 2001-2002 - The League cam- Club finishing in a respectable 8th place. paign got off to a disastrous start, losing Season 1996-7 was one of inconsistency, the first seven matches before taking which cost the Eagles any chance of pro- three points on the 8th attempt at Hen- motion. However, the Town finished in don with a 2-1 victory. The league cam- 7th place - the highest position since the paign would always be difficult after that, Club was reformed. The season 1997-98 and it wasn’t until mid February that the saw an exciting finale when a late run by club finally pulled away from the bottom the Eagles saw them just fail to pip Weald- two when the team put together a tre- stone to the 3rd promotion spot and have mendous nine game unbeaten run. The to settle for 4th position. The Town also FA Cup campaign was a memorable one, won 2 cup competitions, the Beds. Prem- reaching the 1st Round proper. In front of ier Cup and the Vandanel Cup. the Match of the Day cameras the Eagles Season 1998/99 - With just a few days to drew 0-0 at home to 2nd Division Peter- go before the start of the season, the Club borough United and took the “Posh” to a parted company with the Manager and deserved replay at London Road in front former players Tony Luff and Jason Reed of over 5,500 people. The Eagles eventu- were appointed joint managers. The Town ally went down 2-1 and were unfortunate enjoyed an excellent FA Vase run getting not to have won the game. to the 5th Round when they were drawn Season 2002/03 - After the departure at home to the holders Tiverton Town. Roger Ashby, former Northampton Town The Eagles lost 1-2 in front of a crowd of boss Kevin Wilson was appointed as man- 1,566 and Tiverton went on to retain the ager of Bedford Town in October. Kevin Cup. played at the highest level and was Season 1999/2000 - After a poor start to capped by Northern Ireland 42 times. the season the eagles parted company League form improved dramatically and with the Luff and Reed and the club acted the club finished in its highest league posi- swiftly and Roger Ashby was appointed tion of 9th since reformation. Manager. The Club finished in 8th spot. In Season 2003/04 - In October 2003 Man- the FA Trophy the Eagles reached the 4th ager Kevin Wilson and his Assistant Lee Round against Conference side Yeovil. Howey resigned from the club to join The Eagles lost 0-4 . The attendance of Aylesbury United. 2,010 was the highest attendance for a

BEDFORDMILLERICK’S TOWN HISTORY MUSIINGS Reserve and PASE Coach Dave Randall took left the club to take a position at Cambridge charge in October 2003 but agreed to stand United as Assistant Manager. Former Club down in January 2004 after a poor run of Captain and Assistant Manager Lee Howarth league He was immediately replaced by Nick was appointed 1st Team Manager. Platnnauer. Season 2008/09 - The Eagles at least con- Season 2004/05 - After a shaky start an up- solidated their position and achieved 15th turn in form saw the Eagles win 12 home place in the league which could have been league games on the trot and reach 2nd much better if the teams away form had place. Unfortunately injuries took their toll been up to scratch. The team only picked up and eventually slipped to 5th by the end of 5 results on their travels with 4 wins and 1 the season. Bedford reached the semi final draw. of the play off losing on penalties to Chip- Season 2009/10 - The season proved to be penham Town. The Eagles also lost 3-2 over another struggle for the Eagles. Conceding two legs to Kings Lynn in the League Cup 88 goals in the league made life difficult to final, but silverware did come to the club in pick up regular points. After the departure the form of the Bedfordshire Senior Cup, of Manager Lee Howarth in March after a 6- beating Barton Rovers in the final 2-1. 1 defeat at Farnborough, former Reading Season 2005/06 - The club moved into its Captain and Welsh International Ady Wil- new facilities at the beginning of this season liams took over the reigns with the club with a new function room and football facili- looking at the distinct possibility of relega- ties up to National Conference standard. tion. The fight came down to the last game The club were consistent throughout the of the season when we ran out 2-0 winners season and earned a Play off final spot at over Tiverton Town and escaped relegation Chippenham. The Eagles had their day with by a point. a magnificent -3 2 win, the winning goal Season 2010/11 - Pre-season promise did coming from a wonder strike by Tom Bonner not materialise and with only one league two minutes from time. The Eagles now win in the first twelve and early exits from facing a new challenge in Nationwide South, FA Cup and Trophy saw manager Ady Wil- the highest standard the club have played in liams resign in October. Long serving Assis- since re-formation in 1990. tant and former Reserves Manager Ady Hall Season 2006/07 - After struggling for most was appointed as Manager . of the season Manager Nick Platnauer hand- Season 2011/12 - The season didn’t start ed in his resignation in February 2007. Stu- well and early exits from the FA Cup and FA art Bimson was appointed Caretaker Manag- trophy both against East Thurrock didn’t er and was eventually given the post. Alt- help matters. Former manager Nick Platnau- hough results did improve relegation was er returned to the fold as assistant manager confirmed on the 7th of April in a 2-0 defeat in October. The second half of the season at Newport County. saw an upturn in league form with the club Season 2007/08 - Another poor season saw finishing in 10th position its highest finish the Eagles relegated. However due to finan- for six years. Manager Ady Hall resigned at cial problems with other clubs Bedford es- the end of the season due to work commit- caped the drop. In the middle of our prepa- ments and former manager Nick Platnauer rations for 2008/09 Manager Stuart Bimson took on the role for the second time.

MILLERICK’S MUSIINGS BEDFORD TOWN HISTORY Season 2012/13 - The League campaign feats. At the climax of the season, Craig was a mixed affair, but the Eagles got their Adams committed himself to another sea- act together in the New Year and an 8 son at the helm before resigning in mid game unbeaten run saw the club come May 2015. With a new management com- within touching distance of the play offs. mittee appointed, the search for a new Defeats at crucial times meant the Eagles manager commenced and on June 3rd, ex finished in 10th position the same as the Barton Rovers manager Dan Kennoy was previous season. After the departure of appointed. Manager Nick Platnauer the club moved Season 2015/16 – Having taken over in quickly to appoint Cranfield United Man- the Summer, Dan Kennoy assembled a ager and former Eagles player Lee Bear- reasonable squad throughout preseason man, with a directive to find good local and hopes were high. The Eagles started talent rather than searching further afield well with progression in the FA Cup and for players. Following a disappointing run ten points from the first five league of twenty games without a win, it was games. However, a poor September lead decided on Boxing Day 2013 to part com- to Dan Kennoy and his management team pany with Lee Bearman. On January 2nd resigning. The Management Committee 2014, former player Danny Nicholls was acted quickly and appointed Jon Taylor to appointed manager with Alan Biley as his the role of manager, where he was joined assistant. After 12 consecutive defeats by former Eagles player Paul Daniels. Tay- manager Danny Nicholls and assistant Alan lor led the Eagles to a solid 14th position Biley resigned in March 2014. Wellingbor- finish. ough Manager Craig Adams was appointed Season 2016/17 – After a hard working 1st team manager and brought with him Summer, Taylor assembled a strong look- his assistant, Jamie Wright and Goalkeep- ing squad that started preseason well with ing coach Brian Mapley. However, Adams victories against Stevenage FC and Peter- could not prevent relegation to the South- borough United XIs. Former Dunstable ern League Division One Central on March Town manager Darren Croft joined as as- 22nd. sistant manager and John Bell followed as Season 2014/15 – Life under Craig Adams physio. The league season started disap- started inconsistently in Southern League pointingly with defeats against Farnbor- Division One. A 5-3 win at Beaconsfield ough, Royston, Northwood and exiting the gave the club their first opening day win in FA Cup to AFC Dunstable. A strong league 14 years before a disappointing Septem- run continued through late September and ber saw the Eagles drop down the table. October, but this did include a disap- The highlight of the autumn was the club’s pointing 4:0 loss at Hanwell Town in the FA Trophy run, defeating Chipstead FC, FA Trophy. The club lost again at Hanwell Brightlingsea Regent, Chippenham Town Town in the league on 10th December, but before facing Weston-Super-Mare in the then went on a 20 game unbeaten run. third qualifying round. After the turn of This finished in disappointing fashion at the New Year an inconsistent season took Marlow in early April but had propelled place with a phase of victories and de- the Eagles up to a respectable eight place.

Date Opponents 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 12 Aug H Northwood W 2-0 135 L Maddock Eagle C Greenwood Eagle L New Stow Jones Paris Argent (1) Hodges (1) Everiss Tennant French Paget

16 Aug A Beaconsfield Town W 2-1 144 L Strudley Eagle C Greenwood Eagle L (1) New Stow French Tennant Argent (1) Hodges Everiss Duff Parfitt Paget

19Aug A Brockenhurst W 5-1 133 FAC Prelim Strudley Eagle C Greenwood Eagle L (1) New Stow (1) French Duff Argent (2) Hodges Everiss Paget Jones Tennant (1)

26 Aug H Hanwell Town W 5-1 115 L Strudley Eagle C Paget Eagle L New Stow Everiss (1) Jones Argent (3) Hodges (1) Perkins French Duff Paris

28 Aug A Marlow L 3-0 125 L Strudley Eagle C Paget Eagle L New Stow Perkins Jones Argent French Tennant Greenwood Noakes Parfitt

02 Sep A Basingstoke Town D 2-2 544 FAC 1Qual Strudley Paget Perkins Eagle L Noakes Paris Duff French Argent Hodges (2) Stow New Everiss Parfitt

05 Sep H Basingstoke Town W 1-0 620 FAC 1Qual R Strudley New Everiss Eagle L Noakes Paris Duff French Argent (1 p) Hodges Stow Paget Perkins Parfitt

09 Sep H Kempston Rovers W 2-1 130 L Strudley Paget Everiss New Noakes Paris Duff French Argent Hodges Stow Perkins Parfitt Tennant

16 Sep A Cinderford L 1-0 157 FAC 2Qual Atkinson Eagle C Paget New Noakes Paris Duff Stow Argent Hodges Perkins French Tennant Williams

19 Sep H Brockenhurst W 6-0 61 HSC Strudley Eagle C (1) Paget Eagle L Noakes Paris Perkins French Argent (1 p) Hodges Tennant (3) Duff King New

23 Sep H AFC Dunstable W 2-1 122 L Strudley Paget Diak New Noakes French Tennant Webb Argent Hodges Duff Perkins Greenwood Baxter

26 Sep A Egham Town W 2-1 108 L Strudley Eagle C Greenwood New Noakes Webb Tennant French Argent Hodges 1 Baxter Eagle L 1 Duff Parfitt

30 Sep A Arlesey Town W 6-1 66 L Gee Eagle C Duff Eagle L 1 Noakes Webb Tennant 1 French Argent (2) Hodges 1 Baxter 1 Parfitt Paris Dansie

04 Oct A Farnborough W 6-1 162 BFB Cup Gee Paget Webb Stow (1) Noakes Paris Parfitt (1) French Baxter (1) Hodges (2) Englefield (1) Mitchell Williams Bath

07 Oct A Slimbridge W 1-0 106 FAT Prelim Strudley Eagle C Paget Eagle L Stow Duff Webb French Baxter Hodges (1) Everiss Englefield Buck Bath

14 Oct H Chalfont St. Peter D 1-1 143 L Strudley Paget Paris New Stow Duff Webb French Baxter Hodges Everiss Parfitt Englefield Frise

17 Oct A Bedford Town D 1-1 125 L Strudley Eagle C Paget Eagle L (1) Stow New Webb French Baxter Hodges Everiss Parfitt Englefield Paris

21 Oct A Aylesbury L 2-0 84 L Strudley Eagle C Paget Eagle L Stow New Webb French Baxter Hodges Everiss Duff Parfitt Englefield

24 Oct H Hayes & Yeading L 1-6 151 L Atkinson Eagle C Paget Eagle L New Stow (1 pen) Parfitt Duff Baxter Hodges Everiss French Webb Englefield

28 Oct A Swindon Super Marine W 3-0 157 FAT 1Q Strudley Paget Duff Eagle L Noakes French (1) Webb Hodges Baxter (1p) Vine (1) Everiss New Buck Englefield

04 Nov H Barton Rovers W 7-0 140 L Strudley Paget Duff Eagle L (1) Noakes French (1) Webb Hodges Baxter (4) Vine (1) Everiss New Stow Tennant

11 Nov H Gosport Borough W 3-0 216 FAT 2Q Strudley Paget Duff Eagle L Noakes French Webb (2) Hodges (1) Baxter Vine Everiss Stow Paris Parfitt

14 Nov H Marlow L 2-1 94 BFB 2 R Gee Eagle C Hutchings New Buck (1) Paris Parfitt Stow Baxter Perkins Tennant Englefield Hodges Vine

18 Nov2-0 H Cambridge City L 2-1 160 L Strudley Stow Duff Eagle L Noakes French Webb Hodges Baxter Vine(1) Everiss Tennant Paget Paris

22 Nov A Aylesbury United W 2-0 85 L Strudley Stow (1 p) Hutchings Eagle L Noakes French Webb Hodges Baxter (1) Vine Everiss Tennant Paris Paget

29 Nov A Farnborough W 2-1 255 FAT 3 Q Strudley Stow Hutchings Eagle L Noakes French Webb Hodges (1) Baxter (1) Vine Duff Paris Eagle C Englefield

02 Dec A AFC Rushden & Diamonds L 2-0 483 L Strudley Stow Hutchings Eagle L Noakes French Webb Hodges Baxter Vine Duff Eagle C Everiss Paget

06 Dec A Alresford Town L 2-1 81 HSC 3R Harris Stow Paget Eagle C Tennant Paris Webb (1) Everiss Perkins Vine Duff Frise Englefield Pipero

09 Dec H Moneyfields W 5-1 125 L Strudley Paget Eagle C Eagle L Stow Paris Webb (1) Hodges (1) Baxter (1) Vine (2) French Perkins Tennant Everiss

st 16 Dec H Bromley L 2-0 482 FAT 1 Round Strudley Duff Stow Eagle L Noakes Paris Webb Hodges Baxter Vine French Perkins Tennant Everiss

19 Dec A Uxbridge D 2-2 84 L Harris Duff Eagle C Eagle L Stow Paris Webb Hodges (1) Baxter Vine French Paget Tennant (1) Ball

23 Dec A Northwood L 3-1 96 L Harris Paget Eagle C (1) Eagle L Stow Paris Webb Hodges (1) Baxter Vine Tennant French Everiss Frise

06 Jan H Bedford Town L

09 Jan A Chertsey Town ASC

13 Jan A Hanwell Town L

16 Jan H Ashford Town L

20 Jan H Thame United L

27 Jan A Barton Rovers L

30 Jan A Thame United L

03 Feb H Egham Town L

06 Feb H Marlow L

10 Feb A AFC Dunstable L

17 Feb H Arlesey Town L

20 Feb A Fleet Town L

24 Feb A Chalfont St Peter L

03 Mar H Aylesbury L

10 Mar A Hayes & Yeading L

17 Mar A Moneyfields L

24 Mar H AFC Rushden & Diamonds L

31 Mar A Kempston Rovers L

02 Apr H Fleet Town L

07 Apr A Cambridge City L

14 Apr H Uxbridge L 21 Apr A Ashford Town L 28 Apr H Aylesbury United L Date Opponents 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 12 Aug H Northwood W 2-0 135 L Maddock Eagle C Greenwood Eagle L New Stow Jones Paris Argent (1) Hodges (1) Everiss Tennant French Paget