Welcome
Kempston Rovers Football Club is a Community Benefit Society. Affiliation No. CBS7753. KRFC is a registered Community Amateur Sports Club CASC No.CH11754 We are a members Club owned and run by its Members. FA Club Nominee, Mr Russell Shreeves - Chairman Good afternoon and welcome to Hillgrounds for this Southern League Division One Central fixture
We would like to extend our welcome to the players, officials and supporters of our visitors today, Bedford Town. We hope you have a pleasant stay in Kempston and a safe journey home.
Bedford Town have started the season well and find themselves placed just outside the play offs and safely through to the next round of the County Cup. Last season they made headlines by making great progress in the FA Trophy, including a 7-0 win against Aldershot Town of the National League.
Both sides had the luxury of no game last weekend, so both squads should be fully rested and prepared for this local clash.
Please enjoy the match and respect those on AND off the pitch. Match Preview
Next up at Hillgrounds…
Opponent Bedford Town
Competition League
Bedford’s Current League position 7/20
Last Time They Were Here… Town ran out three one winners last autumn
Bedford’s Current League Form (six games) DDWDWW
Did you know… Queens Park Cresents, who train on Rovers artificial pitch during the week, play their County League home games in Allen Park, on the pitch that Bedford Town first used after they re-formed in the late 1980s
In the bar Manchester United’s trip to Bournemouth is on at lunch time, while the evening kick off sees Watford hosting Chelsea. Both games will be live on our big screens.
On this day in Rovers history… The last time Rovers played on this date, Dave Randall resigned after seeing his side lose 3-0 at Holbeach in 2013 You have to go back to 1991 to find Rovers last win on this date, when they recorded a 2-1 away win at Brackley Town, who are now in Conference North.
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Kempston Rovers 135 years of Football History
Kempston Rovers were formed in 1884 and entered the Bedford & District League. Rover’s first league championship was won in 1908 and twelve months later Rover’s retained the title while also carrying off the Bedfordshire Senior Cup and North Beds Charity Cup. The Walnut Boys, the club’s official nickname, comes from the large walnut orchard in Kempston around the time of foundation. This identity is carried forward by one of the main supporters’ groups at the club, “The Nuts on Tour”.
1973 saw the start of a new era as Kempston relocated to a new ground further down Hillgrounds Road. A magnificent season saw the Walnut Boys storm to the Premier title losing only once in 32 games. A golden period in the club's history saw League Cup successes in 1975 and 1977; the Beds Senior Cup was again captured in 1977 while the Walnut Boys reached the last 16 of the FA Vase in 1975. In 1986, the club moved again, this time to the current ground, their third in the same road. Kempston last won the county’s highest honour, the Beds. Senior Cup, in 1992, the fourth time the trophy has come to Hillgrounds.
In 2002 Kempston Rovers and Kempston Colts began an alliance to pool resources/personnel under the name AFC Kempston. The youth teams at Rovers still go by the name “Colts”, keeping the history of youth football in the town alive.
The beginning of 2005 saw the start of major re-developments at Hillgrounds Road with the building of new changing facilities and the building of an artificial training pitch, which is available to book all year round for training sessions, small sided games or just a kick around with friends. The new ground facilities were completed in 2006 and along with a new stand; on-going ground improvements and the existing clubhouse refurbished and ready to hire for functions and events, Kempston now have some of the best facilities in the area for non-league football.
Midway through the 2013-14 season James Stoyles and Gary Flinn took over the 1st Team managerial duties before, in 2015-16, Rovers won the United Counties Football League Premier Division, with a thrilling final win on the last day of the season, a campaign in which they only lost one league game. This resulted in promotion and saw us move into the Southern League Division One which represents the highest level we have attained within the FA pyramid system so far.
Since promotion, the club has twice narrowly missed out on a place in the end of season promotion play offs. On both occasions, finishing above some of the more established sides in the division.
Tony Joyce took over as manager in November 2018.
The club currently operates one of the largest youth systems in the county, with over thirty sides at various age groups and a senior development side. There is a supporters’ club that holds various functions throughout the season to support the first team.
Kempston Rovers, 135 years in the making and we’re not done yet.
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Kempston Rovers Football Club
Club Cup Honours
Beds County Cup Winners: 1908-09 Beds Premier Cup Finalists: 1991-92 Beds Senior Cup Winners: 1937-38, 1976-77, 1991-92 Finalists: 1926-27, 1927-28, 1928-29, 1992-93 Beds Senior Trophy Finalist: 2008-09 Beds County under 18 Floodlight challenge Cup Winners: 2008-09 Beds Intermediate Cup Winners: 1976-77, Finalists: 1977-78 Beds County Hospital Cup Winners: 1930-31, 1932-33, 1935-36, 1936-37, 1938-39 North Beds Charity Cup Winners: 1908-09, 1934-35, 1999-2000, 2000-01, 2015-16, Finalists: 1910-11, 1935-36 Hinchingbrooke Cup Winners: 1926-27, 1928-29, 2010-11, Finalists: 1923-24, 1930-31, 1932-33, 1947-48 Hunts Premier Cup Winners: 1999-2000, 2000-01 UCL Premier Division KO Cup Winners: 1974-75, 1976-77 UCL Premier/Division 1 KO Cup Finalists: 1999-2000 UCL Division 1 KO Cup Winners: 1957-58, 1959-60, Finalists: 1956-57, 1960-61 UCL Division 2 KO Cup Winners: 1955-56, 1974-75, Finalists: 1972-73 Britannia Cup Winners: 1957-58, 1958-59 Finalists: 1947-48 Beds Sunday Junior Cup Winners: 1989-90 Bedford & District Under 16 Cup Finalists: 1995-96 Bedford & District Under 18 Cup Winners: 1983-84 Lisa Slater Memorial Shield Finalists: 2004-05 (AFC Kempston Rovers Ladies) Eastern Region League Plate Winners: 2005-06 (AFC Kempston Rovers Ladies)
Club League Honours
UCL Premier Division Champions: 1973-74, 2015-16 UCL Division 1 Champions: 1957-58, 1985-86, 2010-11, Runners Up: 1956-57, 1959-60 UCL Division 2 Champions: 1955-56 Runners Up: 1967-68 Bedford & District Premier League Champions: 1958-59, 1960-61, Runners Up: 1959-60 Bedford & District League Division 1 Champions: 1907-08, 1908-09 Bedford & District League Division 2 Champions: 1922-23, 1933-34 Biggleswade & District League Division 1 Champions: 1911-12, Runners Up: 1909-10 Bedford & District Under 14 Colts League Champions: 1985-86 Bedford & District Under 16 Colts League Champions: 1973-74 Bedford & District Under 18 Colts League Runners Up: 1974-75 Bedford & District Sunday League Division 1 Runners Up: 1990-91 Bedford & District Sunday League Division 2 Runners Up: 1989-90 Bedford & District Sunday League Division 4 Champions: 1987-88 Eastern Region League Division 1 West Champions: 2005-06 (AFC Kempston Rovers Ladies) Eastern Region League Division 1 West Runners Up: 2004-05 (AFC Kempston Rovers Ladies) Chiltern Youth League Under 18 Division 1 Champions: 2017-18
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Kempston Rovers Player Profiles 2019-20
Carl Knox – Goalkeeper – Carl signed for Kempston in 2014 an experienced goal keeper was a member of our 2015- 16 UCL Premier Division and North Beds Cup winning squad. An able deputy, Carl made a more concerted challenge for the number one spot last season.
James Martin – Goalkeeper – James arrived at the start of 2019 from Bedworth United, making his debut against Barton Rovers. The giant keeper brings experience from higher levels to the Rovers back line.
Robbie Goodman – Defender – Robbie was on the books of Rovers since joining from Ampthill in 2015. He was named player of the year in 2018, but left to join Barton shortly after Tony Joyce took over as manager of Kempston. Having seen the error of his ways, he rejoined in the summer of 2019.
James Sage – Defender – An autumn recruit from near neighbours Bedford Town, James has added some more depth to the defence. The left footed central defender has made an instant impact in MK42
Jordan Wright – Defender – Jordan joined on a dual registration with Potton United. He is a tough centre half who takes no prisoners in the challenge.
Alfie Powell – Defender – Alfie has joined Rovers for the 2018-19 season. A young defender, he has represented his country at youth level and joins after impressing during pre-season.
Cameron Hyde – Defender – Cameron was part of a very successful youth side at Kempston Rovers, before other commitments led to him spending some time at Bedford FC. He has returned to make his mark on the first team.
Lewis Jones – Defender – Lewis joined Rovers in February 2019 from Bedford FC after training with the club for a while. A strong, determined centre half, Jones has already made a number of key appearances for The Walnut Boys
Finlay Brennan – Defender – Fin signed on loan from MK Dons, he has made his first team MK debut this season.
Ben Baker – Midfield – Ben, a pacy and tricky wide player, joined Rovers in the Autumn of 2019 as The Walnut Boys sought to re-shape the midfield.
Evan Beldon – Midfield – Evan is a product of Kempston Rovers Colts youth system and was part of the U18 Chiltern League Champions of 17/18 season. He has made a number of cameo appearances for the first team this season as he looks to establish himself in senior football.
Kye Andrews – Midfield – Kye joined from near neighbours Bedford Town and was one of Tony Joyce’s first signings as manager of the club. Kye can play in the middle but has experience at full back.
Joe Massaro – Midfield – Jo has joined Kempston on loan from Kettering Town in Conference North.
Gareth Hunt – Midfield – Gareth was initially with Rovers youth set up in 2010, making over sixty appearances for the U18s and the reserves in three seasons, as well as a number of first team run outs. He returned ‘home’ this season to anchor the midfield for Tony Joyce’ team.
Stefan Bailey – Midfield – Stefan joined Kempston from Barton Rovers as Tony Joyce added some more steel to midfield. The robust ball winner has experience with a number of local sides as well as having made a handful of appearances for QPR
Emmanuel Dahie – Midfield – Manny had featured for the development side under Stuart Mellon, now assistant manager. His technique and eye for goal led him to be top scorer for the Devs in the 2017-18 season.
Harry Stratton – Midfield – Harry has re-joined Kempston from Newport Pagnell to pick up where he left off at the end of the 2017-18 season, establishing himself as a fan favourite and enjoying the sounds of Sham69’s classic “Hurry Up Harry” ringing out from the terraces.
Callum Shortt – Forward – Still only a teenager, Callum is one of the youngest members of the Rovers squad this season, he impressed while on trial with the reserve side during the summer and has been drafted in to the first team by manager Tony Joyce.
Izale McLeod – Forward – Izale arrived at Kempston in November 2018 with one job – score goals. It is something he has done throughout his high profile career. He is the all time top goal-scorer for MK Dons. His goals also kept Barnet in the Football League for two seasons in a row before he joined Portsmouth. He has also had spells at Charlton, Notts County and Crawley among others.
Jake Newman – Forward – Jake rejoined the club on the eve of the new season, having been top scorer in the 2017- 18 season with over 30 goals. Jake has played for AFC Rushden & Diamonds, Peterborough Sports and St. Ives Town, scoring goals wherever he has been.
Tony Joyce – Manager – Tony joined Kempston in the summer of 2016. Tony has a wealth of non-league football having previously been manager at Buckingham Town and Southern League Aylesbury United. He moved up the bench from coach to manager in November following the resignations of the previous joint-managers. Also registered as a player, apparently he has to pay into the club fines kitty every time he names himself on the bench.
Stuart Mellon – Coach – Stuart came to Rovers in the summer of 2016, he was the first coach of the Development side and after two seasons’ work in the County League, he is making the step up to work with the first team. His excellent analysis skills have seen the team greatly improve their decision making on the field.
Jardaine Patel-Joseph - Sport Therapist – Jardaine has worked at Rovers for two seasons, shadowing the senior sports therapists during that time He has now taken over the senior role from, the now retired, Colin Hodsden.
Kempston Rovers have also registered a number of players from the reserve team on first team forms to provide cover as needed during the season. During the 2018-19 season, a more than a dozen players that have represented Kempston at youth or development level made first team appearances, a philosophy richly encouraged by manager Tony Joyce.
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Bedford Town FC
HISTORY OF BEDFORD TOWN FC
Bedford Town, nickname “The Eagles” was founded in 1908 and in the early years they played in the United Counties League and its predecessors, the Northampton League and Northampton Alliance.
In 1945, The Eagles moved to the Southern League but achieved little during the first seasons. The club received a much needed boost when in February 1951 Ronnie Rooke was signed as Player/Manager. This signing captured the imagination of the public for “Rookie” was a well known footballer, having played for Arsenal, Fulham, Crystal Palace and England.
“Giant Killers”
However, it was not until season 1955-56 that the Eagles started on the first of their great cup runs which would see them achieve national fame as “Giant Killers” with a number of fine wins over league opposition including
Watford 3-2, Norwich 2-4, Newcastle 1-2, Exeter 1-2, Brighton 2-1 and Oxford 1-0. But possibly their greatest achievement was to draw 2-2 with Arsenal at Highbury watched by a crowd of over 55,000 in season 1955-56. The Eagles nearly caused a major shock in the replay leading 1-0 until 4 minutes from time before going down 1-2 after extra time, having had 2 goals disallowed for offside. During the 60’s, changes of manager were made in a succession of two year spells with Reg Smith taking over from Rooke followed by Basil Hayward in 1963, Ron Burgess 1965, Ron Heckman 1967, Alan Wright 1969, Reg Smith again in 1971, Brian Garvey, Jim Walker, Barry Fry 1977 and finally Trevor Gould. The last game for the Club was against Nuneaton Borough away on the 4th May 1982, with the Eagles going down 1-0. And so after 74 years the end came in 1982 when the owners of the football ground in Queens Park exercised their right to terminate the lease and when plans to build a new stadium near Barkers Lane, Bedford, failed, the Club was wound up.
On the 5th May 1989, a group of Eagles supporters met to start a campaign to re-form Bedford Town FC, which was so successful that they obtained Council permission to play their home games on a public pitch in Queens Park. With Tony Sullivan as team manager, they were elected to the South Midlands League and finished fourth Terry King was tempted out of retirement to team up with Tony Sullivan for the 1992-93 season and a number of early wins put them on the way to a runaway championship.
This meant that the Club had to find their own ground in order to be promoted. The Council finally decided a site at Meadow Lane, Cardington, a former council tree nursery, would be the most appropriate and with financial support from the council and much hard work from supporters and committee members, the New Eyrie was ready for the opening night game against Peterborough United watched by a crowd of over 3,000. So the Eagles went into the SML Premier Division, won their first game and remained top of the league all season. Another race against time saw the ground upgraded and a rollercoaster campaign saw Bedford claim the 3rd promotion spot in the final week of the season. The Eagles started season 1995-96 with high hopes of a 4th successive promotion. But the team who gained promotion from Division Three never really settled to life at a higher level, and a string of bad results meant that relegation was a distinct possibility. The Committee acted quickly to bring in Mick Foster from Beazer Homes Buckingham Town who brought several players with him which resulted in the Club finishing in a respectable 8th place. Season 1996-7 was one of inconsistency, which cost the Eagles any chance of promotion. However, the Town finished in 7th place - the highest position since the Club was reformed. The season 1997-98 saw an exciting finale when a late run by the Eagles saw them just fail to pip Wealdstone to the 3rd promotion spot and have to settle for 4th position. The Town also won 2 cup competitions, the Beds. Premier Cup and the Vandanel Cup. Season 1998/99 - With just a few days to go before the start of the season, the Club parted company with the Manager and former players Tony Luff and Jason Reed were appointed joint managers. The Town enjoyed an excellent FA Vase run getting to the 5th Round when they were drawn at home to the holders Tiverton Town. The Eagles lost 1-2 in front of a crowd of 1,566 and Tiverton went on to retain the Cup. Season 1999/2000 - After a poor start to the season the eagles parted company with the Luff and Reed and the club acted swiftly and Roger Ashby was appointed Manager. The Club finished in 8th spot. In the FA Trophy the Eagles reached the 4th Round against Conference side Yeovil. The Eagles lost 0-4 . The attendance of 2,010 was the highest attendance for a competitive game since the club was re-formed.
Season 2000-2001 - The Eagles finishing runners-up in Ryman Division One, gaining promotion to the Premier Division, losing only four league games all campaign. The Club also became a Private Limited Company at the beginning of the season and David Howell took over the club as Chairman. Season 2001- 2002 - The League campaign got off to a disastrous start, losing the first seven matches before taking three points on the 8th attempt at Hendon with a 2-1 victory. The league campaign would always be difficult after that, and it wasn’t until mid February that the club finally pulled away from the bottom two when the team put together a tremendous nine game unbeaten run. The FA Cup campaign was a memorable one, reaching the 1st Round proper. In front of the Match of the Day cameras the Eagles drew 0-0 at home to 2nd Division Peterborough United and took the “Posh” to a deserved replay at London Road in front of over 5,500 people. The Eagles eventually went down 2-1 and were unfortunate not to have won the game.
Season 2002/03 - After the departure Roger Ashby, former Northampton Town boss Kevin Wilson was appointed as manager of Bedford Town in October. Kevin played at the highest level and was capped by Northern Ireland 42 times. League form improved dramatically and the club finished in its highest league position of 9th since reformation.
Season 2003/04 - In October 2003 Manager Kevin Wilson and his Assistant Lee Howey resigned from the club to join Aylesbury United. Reserve and PASE Coach Dave Randall took charge in October 2003 but agreed to stand down in January 2004 after a poor run of league results. He was immediately replaced by Nick Platnnauer.
Season 2004/05 - After a shaky start an upturn in form saw the Eagles win 12 home league games on the trot and reach 2nd place. Unfortunately injuries took their toll and eventually slipped to 5th by the end of the season. Bedford reached the semi final of the play off losing on penalties to Chippenham Town. The Eagles also lost 3-2 over two legs to Kings Lynn in the League Cup final, but silverware did come to the club in the form of the Bedfordshire Senior Cup, beating Barton Rovers in the final 2-1.
Season 2005/06 - The club moved into its new facilities at the beginning of this season with a new function room and football facilities up to National Conference standard. The club were consistent throughout the season and earned a Play off final spot at Chippenham. The Eagles had their day with a magnificent 3-2 win, the winning goal coming from a wonder strike by Tom
Bonner two minutes from time. The Eagles now facing a new challenge in Nationwide South, the highest standard the club have played in since re-formation in 1990.
Season 2006/07 - After struggling for most of the season Manager Nick Platnauer handed in his resignation in February 2007. Stuart Bimson was appointed Caretaker Manager and was eventually given the post. Although results did improve relegation was confirmed on the 7th of April in a 2-0 defeat at Newport County. Season 2007/08 - Another poor season saw the Eagles relegated. However due to financial problems with other clubs Bedford escaped the drop. In the middle of our preparations for 2008/09 Manager Stuart Bimson left the club to take a position at Cambridge United has Assistant Manager. Former Club Captain and Assistant Manager Lee Howarth was appointed 1st Team Manager.
Season 2008/09 - The Eagles at least consolidated their position and achieved 15th place in the league which could have been much better if the teams away form had been up to scratch. The team only picked up 5 results on their travels with 4 wins and 1 draw.
Season 2009/10 - The season proved to be another struggle for the Eagles. Conceding 88 goals in the league made life difficult to pick up regular points. After the departure of Manager Lee Howarth in March after a 6-1 defeat at Farnborough, former Reading Captain and Welsh International Ady Williams took over the reigns with the club looking at the distinct possibility of relegation. The fight came down to the last game of the season when we ran out 2-0 winners over Tiverton Town and escaped relegation by a point.
Season 2010/11 - Pre-season promise did not materialise and with only one league win in the first twelve and early exits from FA Cup and Trophy saw manager Ady Williams resign in October. Long serving Assistant and former Reserves Manager Ady Hall was appointed as Manager.
Season 2011/12 - The season didn’t start well and early exits from the FA Cup and FA trophy both against East Thurrock didn’t help matters. Former manager Nick Platnauer returned to the fold as assistant manager in October. The second half of the season saw an upturn in league form with the club finishing in 10th position its highest finish for six years. Manager Ady Hall resigned at the end of the season due to work commitments and former manager Nick Platnauer took on the role for the second time.
Season 2012/13 - The League campaign was a mixed affair, but the Eagles got their act together in the New Year and an 8 game unbeaten run saw the club come within touching distance of the play offs. Defeats at crucial times meant the Eagles finished in 10th position the same as the previous season. After the departure of Manager Nick Platnauer the club moved quickly to appoint Cranfield United Manager and former Eagles player Lee Bearman, with a directive to find good local talent rather than searching further afield for players. Following a disappointing run of twenty games without a win, it was decided on Boxing Day 2013 to part company with Lee Bearman. On January 2nd 2014, former player Danny Nicholls was appointed manager with Alan Biley as his assistant. After 12 consecutive defeats manager Danny Nicholls and assistant Alan Biley resigned in March 2014. Wellingborough Manager Craig Adams was appointed 1st team manager and brought with him his assistant, Jamie Wright and Goalkeeping coach Brian Mapley. However, Adams could not prevent relegation to the Southern League Division One Central on March 22nd.
Season 2014/15 – Life under Craig Adams started inconsistently in Southern League Division One. A 5-3 win at Beaconsfield gave the club their first opening day win in 14 years before a disappointing September saw the Eagles drop down the table. The highlight of the autumn was the club’s FA Trophy run, defeating Chipstead FC, Brightlingsea Regent, Chippenham Town before facing Weston-Super-Mare in the third qualifying round. After the turn of the New Year an inconsistent season took place with a phase of victories and defeats. At the climax of the season, Craig Adams committed himself to another season at the helm before resigning in mid May 2015. With a new management committee appointed, the search for a new manager commenced and on June 3rd, ex Barton Rovers manager Dan Kennoy was appointed.
Season 2015/16 – Having taken over in the Summer, Dan Kennoy assembled a reasonable squad throughout preseason and hopes were high. The Eagles started well with progression in the FA Cup and ten points from the first five league games. However, a poor September lead to Dan Kennoy and his management team resigning. The Management Committee acted quickly and appointed Jon Taylor to the role of manager, where he was joined by former Eagles player Paul Daniels. Taylor led the Eagles to a solid 14th position finish.
Season 2016/17 – After a hard working Summer, Taylor assembled a strong looking squad that started preseason well with victories against Stevenage FC and Peterborough United XIs. Former Dunstable Town manager Darren Croft joined as assistant manager and John Bell followed as physio. The league season started disappointingly with defeats against Farnborough, Royston, Northwood and exiting the FA Cup to AFC Dunstable. A strong league run continued through late September and October, but this did include a disappointing 4:0 loss at Hanwell Town in the FA Trophy. The club lost again at Hanwell Town in the league on 10th December, but then went on a 20 game unbeaten run. This finished in disappointing fashion at Marlow in early April but had propelled the Eagles up to a respectable eight place finish.
Season 2017/18 – After the departure of Darren Croft over the summer, coach Gil Octave was promoted to assistant manager. The season started with a disappointing defeat at Uxbridge but wins against Aylesbury United and Swaffham Town in the FA Cup meant the Eagles finished August on a high. The Eagles spent most of the autumn in midtable and Jon Taylor continued to add to his squad. At the start of 2018, former Histon coach and St Ives Assistant Manager Jack Cassidy was brought into the management team. At the end of January 2018, the club was taken over, ending 17 years of ownership under David Howell. Local businessmen David and Jon Taylor headed a consortium including Jason Brown, Ashley Jones, Doug Nurse and Alan Gudjin who took over tenure at the Eyrie. The Eagles went on a solid run from January, but were unable to reach the playoffs, falling short to finish in 8th place.
Season 2018/19 – After a summer of rebuilding on and off the pitch, the new ownership began to stamp down their vision for the Eagles to progress. A number of former league players were signed, and the Eagles started with three wins from three against Kidlington, Yaxley and Dereham (In the FA Cup). A strong FA Cup run continued, defeating Bostik Premier side Enfield Town, before narrowly going out to AFC Telford away in late September. Cup football took priority in the autumn, as the Eagles went on an incredible run in the FA Trophy. They reached the first round, travelling all the way from the extra preliminary round to get there. The journey involved five ties, three replays, knocking out two Bostik Premier League sides on the way with Cheshunt, Tilbury, Kingstonian, Chipstead and Worthing all falling to town as their March to the first round proper of the trophy continued. Due to the large amount of cup football, the Eagles had only played 10 league fixtures by 1st December, and they sat in eighth place at this point, albeit with a number of games in hand over the playoff sitting sides. The fine FA Trophy form continued when on 15th December, the Eagles came back from 2:1 and 3:2 behind to earn a draw at National League side Aldershot Town. The following Tuesday the Shots travelled up from Hampshire with a much depleated squad, consisting of youth players. The Eagles ran riot, knocking seven past them to set up a trip to Chesterfield in the second round proper. Unfortunately, the trophy proved a distraction to the league form, as Bedford struggled to pick up points in the new year, especially on the road. Nonetheless, on 12th January the Eagles visited Chesterfield and after an excellent effort went down 1:0 to the National League side in the 89th minute. A reasonable spring saw the Eagles finish in fourth place and qualify for the playoffs, going down 5:3 to Corby Town in the semi-final. A game which was overshadowed by the Eagles knowing they could not be promoted due to a poor points per game ratio.
Season 2018/19 – The new season started with strong hope after an excellent preseason campaign. The opening day saw a hard fort 2-1 win at home to Thame United. However, in the following week, disappointment hit with a hammering defeat at Berkhamsted and exiting the FA Cup to Deeping Rangers at the Eyrie. Throughout September and October the side picked themselves up, going unbeaten and progressing in the FA Trophy and Southern league Cup.
Betvictor Southern League Division One Central 2019/20
Bedford Town FC Player Profiles Jon Taylor – Manager
Jon took the vacant manager’s job in September 2015 after the sudden departure of our previous manager, Dan Kennoy. Jon has a wealth of experience across non-league having managed at Arlesey Town, St Neots Town and Hereford United. The 52 year old also lives in Bedford so is well aware of local talent.
Nathan Abbey – Manager
Nathan joined the club over the summer of 2018, originally joining as scout but assuming the role of assistant manager as preseason went on. Born in London, he had a long playing career turning out for Luton Town, Chesterfield, Northampton, Stevenage, St Albans, Boston United Bristol City, Torquay United, Brentford, MK Dons, Kettering Town and Rushden and Diamonds. In recent years, he has been joint manager at Arlesey Town and St Neots Town before arriving at the Eyrie.
John Dreyer - Coach
John brings a wealth of experience with him, having been a player at Oxford United, Fulham, Luton Town, Stoke City, Bradford City, Bolton, Cambridge United and Stevenage. Finishing his career at Stevenage, John then became reserve team and caretaker manager of the club, reaching the FA trophy final. After leaving Stevenage, he was manager of Maidenhead when they were promoted to the Conference South, and has since had roles at Hemel Hempstead, Rushden and Diamonds, Kettering, Preston North End (promoting them to the championship as assistant manager), Northampton and Bradford City. Most recently he was with Ware in 2018 as manager.
Gil Octave - Coach
Gil came to the Eyrie at the back end of the 2016/17 season to help Jon, and provided excellent assistance in the dugout during our unbeaten run at the end of that year. Since then, he has been focusing on fitness with the players and is an important part of the management team.
Brian Mapley – Goalkeeping Coach
Brian originally joined the club in the spring of 2014, when manager Craig Adams was appointed. Following an average season, Brian left the club with Craig to join Rugby Town, before returning to the Eyrie in November 2015.
Sam Roblett (Physio)
Sam (BSc Hons) is a sports rehabilitation graduate from the University of Bolton. This has allowed him to become a qualified autonomous healthcare practitioner, specialising in musculoskeletal management; exercise based rehabilitation and fitness. Throughout his time at university, Sam was able to work with several professional sports teams, including rugby league's London Broncos and football's MK Dons. In addition, he has also supported numerous other sporting events, ranging from half marathons to rugby festivals, for which he has provided specialist soft tissue massages and other treatment. He is currently working with MK Dons Youth Academy, in their Sports Medicine Department. He has also worked with Olney Town FC, providing pitch side assistance, rehabilitation and treatment.
Nick Bennion (Goalkeeper)
Nick signed for the Eagles in the summer of 2019, having been previously with Aylesbury FC. He has previously played for St Ives Town, Kettering Town, Corby Town, Marlow and Aylesbury United.
Aaron Dillon (Goalkeeper)
Aaron signed for the club in August 2019. He originates from the Republic of Ireland and came to England to play for Blackburn Rovers.
Dan Benney (Goalkeeper)
Dan signed for the club in September 2019, following a successful trial. He was signed in Australia for Adelaide Panthers in 2014. Before spending time in Australia, Dan was with Arsenal throughout his youth before joining MK Dons. We're delighted he is now involved at Bedford, and has chosen the Eagles to get his career going again back in England.
Brett Longden (Defence)
Has signed for the Eagles in the close season. Brett was at AFC Dunstable last season. Previous clubs include St. Ives Town, Chesham United, St. Neots Town, and Luton Town.
Mason Watkins-Clark (Defence)
Mason joined Bedford in the close season. He played for Aston Villa U18’s before going to Stoke City U21’s and U23’s. Mason has also played for Wrexham in the National League, and was a Republic of Ireland U21 international, gaining 4 caps and scoring 1 goal. In September 2018, Mason signed a one year contract with the club.
Joe Steele (Defence)
Joe joined the Eagles in November 2018 from AFC Dunstable. He is a local player and established himself into the side in February 2019.
Derek Ubah (Defence)
Derek signed for the Eagles in July 2019 after a successful trial. Big Del as he is known, is a 6 foot 5 inch commanding defender who predominatly plays in central defence. He has previously been with Altrincham, Boston United, Maldon and Tiptree. The Eagles signed him from IFK Mora in Sweden and he agreed to a one year contract in July 2019.
Louis Hall (Defence)
Louis signed for the club in July 2019 after a successful trial throughout preseason. The versatile left back was with Aston Villa for five years completing a scholarship. Since being released he has been with Stourbridge FC. After attracting attention from football league scouts, Louis signed a one year contract with the club in August 2019.
Cade Stephens-Abbey (Defence/Midfielder)
Cade joined the club in August 2018 following a successful period throughout preseason. Cade is the son of Assistant Manager Nathan Abbey. He is a Bedford boy, who has been with Arlesey Town previously.
Callum Donnelly (Midfield)
Callum came to us from Hitchin Town in 2017/18 season, where he made over 300 appearances. His previous clubs include Cambridge City and Boreham Wood. During the 2018/19 campaign he was made club captain and signed a one year contract with the club in the summer of 2019.
Ben Ford (Midfield)
Ben signed for the club in August 2018 from AFC Rushden and Diamonds. He is a big game player, and has played his best games for the club in the FA Trophy run of 2018/19 at Aldershot Town and Chesterfield FC. He was previously with St Neots Town, Kettering Town and Nuneaton Borough.
Ebby Nelson-Addy (Midfield)
Ebby signed for the club in early November 2018. As a youngster he was with Aston Villa. He joined the Eagles from Cambridge City, scoring on his debut at Barton Rovers.
Nathan Olukamni (Midfield)
Nathan signed for the club in the summer of 2019, having left Cambridge City. He is a lively winger who can play down either flank. He has played Conference North level with Worcester City and Leamington FC. He has also been with Arlesey Town, Dunstable Town, Stratford Town and is another product of Aston Villa’s academy.
Connor Tomlinson (Attacking Midfield)
Connor joined the Eagles in the summer of 2019 following his release from Luton Town. He is a lively 18 year old who has extreme talent. The son of former Eagle, and Manchester United forward, Greame, Connor agreed a two year contract with the club in 2019.
Jack Vasey (Attack)
Jack signed for the club in March 2019, before registration deadline day. The 23 year old striker had a good run at the end of the 2018/19 season, scoring four goals in six games. He has previous experience with Borehamwood, Royston Town, Arlesey Town and Cambridge City.
Scott Joseph (Attack)
Scott signed for the Eagles in the summer of 2019. He has previous experience with Bedford FC, St Ives Town, AFC Rushden & Diamonds and Barton Rovers. Scott impressed throughout preseason, scoring important goals against Luton Town and Kettering Town.
Dan Walker (Attack)
Dan joined the club in the summer of 2018, ten years after he first signed for the Eagles. He has played for numerous Conference National sides, including Luton Town and Aldershot.
Tom Hitchcock (Attack)
The 26 year old forward joined the Eagles in October 2019, following a wealth of experience in the game. At a young age, he made Premier League appearances for Blackburn Rovers and Queens Park Rangers. After loan spells at Plymouth, Bristol Rovers, Crewe Alexandra and Rotherham, he joined Milton Keynes Dons in 2014 and was with them for three seasons. After leaving the Dons, he had spells with Biggleswade Town, Boreham Woods, Chelmsford and Chesham. Last season he spent time with Cheshunt and Harlow, where he scored 5 goals in 11 games.
Match Report
Kempston Rovers bowed out of the Bedfordshire Senior Cup on penalties
Potton United held their nerve in the shootout after a lively, but goalless game at the Hollow on a chilly October evening.
The game began with a spring in its step despite the autumnal feel to conditions, with both sides pressing and maintaining a high intensity to their play. Potton had the first clear cut chance on the quarter hour, when Nzembela, who had spent a trial with Rovers in the summer, was played through but his attempted chip over Carl Knox was less than successful. Midway through the half, Jake Newman snapped a first time shot wide of the post after he combined well with Harry Stratton. Stratton himself then forced Irish into a save after his shot from the left hand side was initially parried. Rovers went into the dressing rooms at half time having had the better of the half, but couldn’t find the all important goal.
Potton began the second half with a flurry of chances, all falling to Nzembela. He forced Knox into two really good saves as the hosts tried to up their game at the start of the second period. Just before the hour mark, a Potton corner was swung in toward Knox. The Rovers keeper spilt the ball and the resulting loose ball was hacked off the line as Kempston cleared the danger. As the game wore on, Potton’s energy levels dipped and their intensity faded slightly, allowing Rovers to regain control of the game. With a quarter hour to go, a long ball from James Sage was nodded down by Jordan Wright, once of Potton, in to Jake Newman, but the usually reliable forward found his lobbed effort drifting over the bar rather than into the far corner. The last meaningful effort on goal of the ninety minutes came from a Kempston corner, Finlay Brennan played the ball to the edge of the box, where Emmanuel Dahie laid it back to Harry Stratton. Stratton wound up and blasted from the edge of the box, but his shot was bravely blocked by Potton bodies and cleared away. With no extra time, the match headed straight to penalties.
Both Gareth Hunt and Finlay Brennan hit the crossbar for Kempston in the shootout, leaving Sims the chance to win it for the hosts. Potton advance to the quarter finals of the Senior Cup, leaving Kempston to concentrate their efforts on turning their league form around. This weekend is a rare day off for Rovers first team, their next fixture is the clash with Bedford Town on November 2nd. The Reserves, however, are in County Cup action this weekend, away to Wilstead.
The Andy Kirby Kit Predictor Game – we said home kit and we were right. [9/10 so far this season]
Betvictor Southern League Division One Central
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THE TEAMS Saturday 2nd November 2019 Betvictor Southern League Division One Central
Dan Benney Nick Bennion Aaron Dillon Damien Green Louis Hall Gavin Hoyte Tommy Hull Nuredin Lilaj Brett Longden James Sage Joe Steele Cade Stephens-Abbey Ollie Swain Derek Ubah Mason Watkins-Clark Callum Donnelly Ben Ford Rafe Goodman Callum Milne Midfield Ebby Nelson-Addy Nathan Olukamni James Peters Abraham Eze Thomas Hitchcock Tre Mitford Andrew Phillips Manny Soetan Connor Tomlinson Jack Vasey Dan Walker