ST ALBANS CITY YOUTH

COMMUNITY www.cityyouthfc.com [email protected] Registered Charity No: 1089343 FOOTBALL CLUB

Presentation

eason 2015 - 16 S

Day

THE ALBAN ARENA ST ALBANS

Sunday 19th June 2016

Sponsors Adverts

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ST ALBANS CITY YOUTH COMMUNITY F.C.

Patron: Annie Brewster

President: Malcolm MacMillan

Life Vice President: Robert Murphy

Vice Presidents: Jim McGregor, John Veasey, Mike Day, Carol Day, Ray Anderson, Pete Harvey, Malcolm Elliott, Brian Gibson, John Warriner, Jeff Lawrence, David Atkinson, Ray Parker, Phil Smyth, Wilfried Veldhuigzen, David Wray, Richard Gaskin, Geoff Watts, William McAulay, Ged Deacon, Mervyn Morgan, Kerry Pollard, Mark Clark, Alan Heaffey, Chris Mawhood, Chris Pearce, Duncan Lowthian, Peter Towndrow

Board of Trustees: Mervyn Morgan, Geoff Watts, Robert Murphy, David Wray, Neil Deacon, Ian Woods, Jeff Lawrence, Gill Savory, Brian Pyke, Lesley Wray, Kelly Hancock, Alan Moorhouse, Lawrence Levy, Sam Mardle

Management Committee Chairman: Geoff Watts Vice Chairman: Neil Deacon, Mervyn Morgan Hon Secretary: Ian Woods Hon Treasurer: Lesley Wray Commercial Manager: Neil Deacon Community and Apprentice Management: David Wray Press Officer: Terry Edwards 6 A Side Co-ordinator: Boys - Mervyn Morgan / Dave Wray Girls - Kelly Hancock, Sam Mardle, Bradley Bennett Minutes Secretary: Lesley Wray Schools Liaison Officer: Ian Woods Senior Club Liaison: David Wray Hon Auditor: Mr. Kropman Welfare Officers (Child protection): Ian Woods, Mervyn Morgan Apprentice Community Coaches: Tom Davison Club Community Coaches: Sam Mardle, Charlie Boswell, Sam Russell, Ben Kelly, Emma Tammaro, Jabbil Chibwana, Lawrence Wilson, Anthony Gosling, Bradley Bennett, Tom Ward, Paul Spink, Tom Johnson

St Albans City Youth F.C. wishes to thank all of its sponsors. We are also grateful to those who have supported us by advertising in today’s programme or other activities during the season.

We must also thank: Terry Edwards for his excellent reports, The Review and the Herts Advertiser for press coverage. The Lion press for the printing. Highfield Park Trust. St Stephens Parish Council and John O’Connor for pitch provision and maintenance. St Albans City F.C. for the use of Clarence Park and its facilities. All local Schools for the use of pitches and training facilities. Nicholas Breakspear School for the 3G Astro Training Pitch. And finally as always the Wives of Managers and Club Officials for their eternal patience.

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From the Chairman

Welcome to our Presentation Day for 2015-16, especially to our Honoured Guests, representatives of our affiliated leagues, our sponsors, Trustees and Vice Presidents.

I commented last year on the fact that the number of teams in the club was approaching 70. It now exceeds that number as we fulfil our remit of ‘football for all’. This is a source of pride but the pressure placed on facilities and organisational roles is huge.

These issues have been at the heart of a review undertaken by the Trustees and we are actively considering ways of sharing the burden and ensuring clear lines of succession.

As always I am proud to oversee all that happens but must emphasise that the real work of running the Club is done by the committee, the trustees, the team managers, their assistants and coaches. Without their efforts none of what happens each week would be possible and they deserve our continuing thanks and support.

Please enjoy the day and show your support for each team as they come onto the stage.

Geoff Watts

SUMMER HOLIDAY FUN FOOTBALL COACHING AIMED AT 5 TO 13 YEAR OLD BOYS AND GIRLS

Once again we are offering top football coaching using the best club coaches trained by the Academy leading trainers.

th w/c 25 July @ Margaret Wix School

w/c 1st August, w/c 8th August, w/c 22nd August @ Highfield Park

BOOK NOW

Full details on www.cityyouthfc.com

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FROM THE SECRETARY

FROM THE SECRETARY

Another season of growth has seen more young people than ever representing St Albans City Youth FC on the field. This growth however brings its own problems with facilities being ever stretched to cope with demand. When you add in the community work which is a cornerstone of our success the calls upon the Club officers have become more and more demanding. With all this in mind (and no sign of any reduction in demand) the club Trustees have instigated a study of the future of the club and how we can continue to provide the service we do now. What is quite clear is that there is a need for more support for existing officers in order to make their load more manageable. If anyone feels they would like to become involved with this, please do not hesitate to come forward. At the same time, we are also looking into how we can best develop our own players to prevent then being lured away by the utopian embellishments of the Eastern Junior Alliance.

On the field Andy Lawrence’s under 14 North and Chris Tillin’s under 12 West both reached the County Cup Final only to fall at the last hurdle. Keith Glasscoe’s under 18 Warriors completed their youth football career with a cup and league double and John Moss’s under 16 North matched this achievement. Other league winners were Tony Moss’s under 13 Central and Stuart Hills under 12 East teams while James Longbottom’s under 11 East claimed their league Cup.

We say farewell to youth football to Keith Glasscoe and the under 18 Warriors and John Finnegan and the under 18 West and wish them well in their future football careers. Other managers standing down are Johnny Doyle, John Moss; Jason Evans; Neil Sweeney and Tracey Lorimer. The club is grateful to them for their part on providing football to young people in St Albans. Without their input and that of on- going managers the Club would not exist. St Albans owes them all a considerable vote of thanks.

Ian Woods

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TEAM HONOURS 2015 – 2016 Hertfordshire Football Association U 14 Boys Under 14 North Runners Up U 12 Boys Under 12 West Runners up Watford Friendly League U 18 Yellow Division Under 18 Warriors Winners U 18 Spring Shield Under 18 Warriors Winners U 16 Red Division Under 16 North Winners U 16 White Division Under 16 East Runners- up U 16 Challenge Cup Under 16 North Winners U 14 Challenge Cup Under 14 North Runners-up West Herts Youth League U 15 Junior League Cup Under 15 West Runners -up U 14 Division 4 Under 14 West Runners-up U 13 Division 2 Under13 Central Winners U 12 Green Division Under 12 East Winners Mid Herts Rural Minors League U 11 Indigo Division Cup Under 11 East Winners Hertfordshire Girls Partnership League U 13 Division 1 Under 13 Girls Runners-up

U 9 Fair Play U 9 Girls North Winners

PLAYERS HONOURS

Hertfordshire U 16 Boys Daniel Newton; William Sharp; Cian Sweeney

The following players will be receiving plaques to mark their 100 appearances for St Albans City Youth F C

Josh Ali; Finlay Banks; William Baynham; Hendrik Bockenhauer; Jack Carmichael; Freddie Collins; Ryan Corcoran; Harvey Connor; Sam Day; Maddy Donaldson; Josh Doyle; Danny Fowler; Joe Galliford; Tomas Geller; Sophie Hegerty; Mariona Horne-Batet; Grainne Kellett; Joe Knee; Shaun Knighton; Jessica Levy; Daniel Ludwig; Rosie McGahan; Sam McKenna; Joe Newton; Matthew Pollard; Joe Parrett; Kit Rainford; Francesca Ralfe; Adam Ransley; Ned Robinson; Chris Salmons; Jessica Simpson; Matthew Stevens; Ollie Wakeling; Max Varney; Sam Waters-Rathjen; Harry Watts; Joe Weaver; Joe Williams; Laurence Williams; Nia Williams; Kwame Youri

Awards to mark 200 appearances for St Albans City Youth will be made to

Ellis Allen; Sam Cornmell; Taylor Finnegan; Lewis Glasscoe; Chris Hubbard; Charlie Lunnis; Liam Murphy

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TOP TWENTY All time appearance and goal scoring records.

Appearances Goal scorers Jake Deacon 284 Allister Collins 317 Jake Attwood 279 Matthew Hanson 313 David Towndrow 277 231 Matthew Hanson 274 Adam Wallace 218 Winston Seidhu 268 Ashraf Choudhury 214 Laurence Anscombe 266 Kevin Coulson 208 Luke Campion 266 Billy Owen 205 Greg Deacon 264 Simon Dean 197 Jamie Heaffey 262 Mark Warriner 196 Nathan Maycock 259 Anthony Gosling 184 Iain Turkentine 259 Phil Turner 180 Harry Deacon 258 Noah Grisenthwaite 175 Dominic Oliver 257 Harry Smith 175 Ben Conrad 256 Yasim Boodhoo 175 Harry Hawkes 256 Andrew Guard 163 Craig McConnell 254 Emily Schofield 161 Allister Collins 253 Danny Bowman 154 Oliver Franks 253 Harvey Scott 154 Adam Luck 253 Luke Thatcher 153 James Montague 253 David Etheridge 153

Girls Top Fifteen All time appearance records.

Samantha May 215 Holly Clarke 200 Shauna Smith 196 Nicola Gosling 178 Isabelle Poole 177 Grace Campion 176 Rebecca Dolphin 174 Katie Ladd 171 Mary Leach 171 Sofia Munoz 169 Abigail Kemball-Cooke 158 Romy Kelleher 156 Jessica Hoare 151 Coral C Layton 150 Claire Brown 149

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A message to all at St Albans City Youth FC from Craig Mackail-Smith

I played for both the Midweek Youth and Sunday Team for St Albans City Youth from the age of 14-18 and had a fantastic time.

I first played for the St Albans City 1st Team when I was 16 and was involved in some of the matches for 4 years.

It didn’t work out for me with the 1st Team so I joined Ryman Division 1 team Arlesey Town where I played a whole season of men’s football and really enjoyed it for the first time. A fond memory of that year was playing Dagenham and Redbridge in the FA Umbro Trophy drawing 3-3. I set up all 3 goals and went on to score 2 in a 4-2 victory in the replay.

I signed for Dagenham when I was 21 which is when I played football full-time. This was an amazing feeling as this was a dream come true. I had a great 2 ½ years with the Club in which time we gained promotion to the Conference and Football League.

I moved to Peterborough for a fee of £125,000 and had an amazing 4 ½ years scoring 99 goals in 200 appearances and winning 3 promotions, 2 to the Championship and 1 to Division 1. I was lucky enough to get called up to the Scotland National Team being in the squad which played Brazil, one of the best international teams in the world, making my dreams come true!

I then signed for Brighton for a fee of just over £3 million. I spent 4 years at the Club but it was my most difficult spell in football as I was side-lined for 15 months after rupturing my Achilles. I did go on to win 6 more caps for Scotland including one against world champions Spain in a European Championship Qualifying game.

When my contract ended at Brighton, I joined Town joining up again with manger . I have enjoyed one season at Luton and am looking forward to the coming one with enthusiasm.

I am now 32, having been blessed with a good career - better than I could have hoped for when I signed my first professional contract at 23 proving that you don't always have to be young to get a chance in the game.

I had a fantastic time in the St Albans City Youth set up and feel it gave me a really good start on my journey in the game.

Craig

Luton Town FC, Scotland and St Albans City Youth FC

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St Albans City Youth Under 8 North

After starting our first season in the top league we suffered 5 heavy defeats. The team never got despondent and always turned up happy and ready to try again.

We moved league's and never looked back, only losing 3 more games all season. We have a solid foundation, strong at the back and speed going forward. I am very proud of my team's progress in our first season and hope to continue this into next season. We do need to work on the players to get them playing in different positions but, having said that, it was a great first season and they can all be very proud of themselves.

Alfie Bedell (9 goals) - Alfie is our Mr Versatile; always happy to play in any position and will always give 100%. Played in goal for a while and produced some great performances. This boy never stops running and love's to tackle. He works so hard for the team and is a vital member of my squad. An ever present this season.

Christopher Datubo (4 goals) - What can I say, our captain and centre back leads from example, solid in his tackles and never gets brushed aside by the oppositions forwards. His strength and vision when passing is exceptional, he also scores the odd screamer. He is a valuable member of the team, vital to the defence.

Ethan Evans (3 goals) - Another ever present this season; he will cover defence but at his strongest as a holding . Like's a tackle and very happy to dribble out with the ball at times. He never gives up and holds the team together brilliantly. Every manager needs a solid midfielder, keep it up Ethan.

Jacob Standing (28 goals) - My very own Harry Kane. This boy just knows where the goal is and scores for fun, a natural goal scorer from tap ins to screamers. He has worked hard on looking up, passing more and always helps defend. Every team needs a striker like this. Another ever present.

Kaden Rajkumar (18 goals) - My wing wizard Kaden has unbelievable pace and once he sorts out that first touch he will outrun anyone. Would have pushed Jacob all the way for top scorer had he played all games. His defending has come on tremendously, a good season for Kaden to build on. The bigger pitches will see Kaden come into his own next season.

Judd Austin (3 goals) - Judd started in goal with some great performances but wasn't enjoying his football. So we gave him a go on pitch and he has never looked back. He is tenacious in his tackling and, if he keeps his concentration, he will be a great player. Also gave us the best moment of the season with his dad’s reaction to his first goal, well done Judd.

Charlie Yeo (14 goals) - Charlie started the season very shy but came into his own after scoring his first goal, starting a run of 12 goals in 5 games in a mid-season blast. Although the goals dried up a bit Charlie never stopped running and always gave me 100%. A good first season for Charlie to build on.

Richard Evans (coach) - massive thanks to my right hand man for his assistance this season, I couldn't have done it without you. Thanks for all your help with training and for all your hard work.

I am very proud of my players, after our first season together, and can't wait for next season to start. Well done everyone and sorry I can't be at the presentation. Mark Bedell – Under 8 North Manager.

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St Albans City Youth FC – Under 8 North

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 8 South

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St Albans City Youth Under 8 South

(P15 W0 D1 L14). This season has been a tough introduction to league football for this new team. Starting in a division where all the other teams had had at least one season playing together, the advantage this gave them was clear. With some heavy defeats before Christmas and a couple of adjustments down the league ladder we found ourselves starting to have some more competitive matches – and it is a credit to the boys that they have continued to turn up for matches with a good spirit. This spirit was best illustrated in the highlight of our season a 3-3 draw. Going into the final quarter we were 3-0 down, but with the boys not giving up that final quarter saw a great comeback, including a goal from our keeper, to earn a well-deserved draw.

Jacob Thomas – Jacob has had a great first season in goal – with plenty of chances to show how good a keeper he is. Many of our losses could have been significantly worse were it not for Jacob’s efforts. This means that Jacob has been voted our Player of the Season. Well done Jacob

Jake Allen – Jake has shown great improvement over the course of the season, culminating in a headed goal in the last game of the season, well done Jake.

Thomas Denyer – Thomas has proved to be a stout defender this season, with a real determination to not let opposition player pass, keep going for next season Thomas.

Jo Raeyen – Jo has shown real determination in some of the midfield battles we have encountered this season, with some very strong tackles.

Kiran Reynolds – Kiran’s attitude has always been spot on, wherever asked to play, including in goal, he has always given his all. Keep it up Kiran.

Charlie Nicholson – Unfortunately Charlie has missed a number of games this season – because when available Charlie has been a strong, energetic and skilful player. Good luck going forward Charlie.

Theo Price – Theo is our speedy midfielder, working up and down the pitch constantly. He puts in lots of effort and we hope will continue to progress with the team. Well done Theo.

Harrison Smith – Harrison is our top goal scorer for the season and has shown strength in whatever positon he has been playing. Great season Harrison, well done.

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St Albans City Youth Under 8 East

(P17, W10, D2, L5 For: 87, Against: 78) This was our first season playing as a team and the team can be very proud of what they have achieved. We played the whole season in the 3rd division (Indigo). The team developed as the season progressed from a set of individuals into a team that played some very nice team football. Each player has improved significantly and has started to find their best position. We scored lots of goals (averaging over 5 a game) and also worked very hard defending. Their attitude and sportsmanship has been fantastic and represented the club very well. Thank you to all of you for the effort you put in and the way you have played. Thanks also to all the parents for their support and help – especially organising events and helping with training. Let’s build on this for a successful season next year - Mark

Samuel Philpot – Sam played every game this season and is a great all round player. He uses his speed well to not only score goals but also to defend.

Leon Rainey – Leon is an excellent midfielder with a great range of passing. He looks for his team mates but also has excellent control and scores lots of goals.

Danny Quinn – Danny is turning into a very good defender. His positioning and tackling are excellent and he also contributes with the key goals.

Dylan Jack – Dylan is enthusiastic and plays with a smile on his face. He likes to play up front and has scored some important goals.

Teddy Carr – Teddy has shown a massive improvement through the season. He is comfortable using either foot and his defensive positioning and reading of the game is excellent.

Arthur Rennie-Sivell – Arthur is a natural goal scorer. His jinking runs and determination followed by deadly shooting have seen him become our top scorer this season.

Arthur Vessey – Arthur is a hard working midfielder who is strong on the ball, comfortable dribbling past players and also defending.

William Dorey – William has been our star goalkeeper as well as sometimes playing out field. He has pulled off some fantastic saves that have won us some of our games.

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 8 East

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St Albans City Youth Under 8 West

(P19 W15 L1 D2, Goals For 114, Against 32) As our first season as a team I couldn’t be prouder of how the boys have come together. Everyone is really supportive of each other and there to help one another. We have shown this season that we are very talented at going forward and are not short of goals. We are very lucky that all the boys are willing to rotate their positions and develop as a footballer. Hopefully next season our league will present us with a bigger challenge to help with our development. Thank you for a wonderful first season!

Daniel Berman (5) - Daniel Berman has proved to be a very reliable and hardworking member of the team. He has played in all positions this season, impressing us in midfield by working hard going forward and tackling and in goal making some wonderful diving saves and rushing out to close players down. Well done Daniel on a fantastic first season.

Daniel Day (11) - Daniel Day has improved massively during this season. His control of a football is much better as he is taking his time to think about controlling the ball before he passes it. He has also impressed in goal this season and has come on lots with his saves. Well done Daniel on a fantastic first season.

Alex Evershed (12) - Alex has improved massively this season. He has become a real asset to the team with his hard work and determination. He has started to play some lovely passes through midfield up to our striker putting them through on goal. He has proved to have a calm head when playing in any position. Well done Alex on a fantastic first season.

Nick Evershed (7) - Despite missing our first four matches through a broken wrist Nick slotted back into the team effortlessly. He has showed that he is able to play in every position on the pitch and will always work hard for the team, going forward, getting back and defending but also willing to play in goal. Well done Nick on a fantastic first season.

Kyle Rennie (2) - Kyle has done really well in his first season, despite spending a lot of the time on the floor! He has improved his defending and tackling and has upped his work rate massively showing excellent every effort in every match and is starting to pick out some lovely passes for his team mates. Well done Kyle on a fantastic first season.

Romeo Rojas (25) – Romeo has shown what a fantastic team player he is this season. He is second top goal scorer but has the highest number of assists in the team. He is always the first to lift his head and look for a pass. He has also scored some fantastic goals this season as well. Well done Romeo on a fantastic first season.

Toby Short (33) - Toby has proved to be a fantastic all round player this season. Regardless of his position he still performs admirably giving 100% to his game. In the last few matches he started to lift his head and pass the ball more. He always works hard during our matches and has become a vital member of the team. Well done Toby on a fantastic first season.

Freddie Stewart (10) – Freddie was a last minute addition to our team but he has shown us how lucky we are to have him in the team. He isn’t afraid to put a tackle in and he can also score some wonderful goals. Freddie’s concentration in games has improved massively over the season. Well done Freddie on a fantastic first season.

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St Albans City Youth FC – Under 8 West

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 8 Girls

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St Albans City Youth Under 8 Girls

Played 17 Won 15 Drawn 0 Lost 2 For 167 Against 26 Goal Difference +141.

What an amazing season! The girls have shown great determination and a passion to play football right from the start. Every single player has developed, playing in all positions from goalkeeper to attacker. Their confidence has grown and their togetherness as a team is exceptional. This is a team of not just one but ten star players. It has been a pleasure to coach you all. A big thank you to everyone involved for all your support throughout the season. Manager and Coach: Andrew Bracey

Heidi Addo – Played 9 goals 3. Heidi has shown great improvement over the season in training and on match days. She is confident on the ball and has the ability to pick a perfectly weighted pass.

Sophie Birkett – Played 15 goals 15. Sophie’s tough tackling and determination are second to none. She stands out in all positions on the pitch and has even been seen doing press ups whilst in goal.

Emma Bracey – Played 15 goals 15. Emma has shown that defending is her natural position stopping almost all opposition in their tracks. She has shown the confidence to push further up the pitch and even scored a few goals.

Laila Brown – Played 16 goals 64. Laila is a natural talent and technically gifted player who can score goals with a powerful finish from anywhere on the pitch. The team and leagues top scorer by a country mile.

Maya Deans – Played 16 goals 29. Maya is very powerful player with strength way beyond her age. She has battled her way through the midfield with pace to score on many occasions.

Nora Doyle-Newe – Played 14 goals 5. Nora has grown in confidence immensely this season. She is technically very good on the ball, she finds the right spaces on the pitch well in both defending and attacking play.

Grace Gauthier – Played 12 goals 9. Grace is a true all rounder and plays well in all positions including goal. She has the confidence to dribble with the ball and has found the back of the net on many occasions.

Olive Jones – Played 17 goals 6. Olive is a versatile player with confidence on the ball. She has the ability to tackle well in defence, pass well in the midfield and also get up front and score a few goals.

Bailey Killner – Played 13 goals 1. Bailey’s has shown confidence on the ball and a willingness to play in all positions when asked. She’s a great team player who excels in midfield.

Rebecca Smith – Played 16 goals 20. Rebecca’s a natural in all positions. She has a powerful shot, scoring many goals this season. She gets back to defend and is our stand out goalkeeper always playing with a smile.

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St Albans City Youth Under 9 North

The Under 9 North have had an excellent season this year. Boys have really developed well and started to play more as a team. North team got through to the Mid Herts cup final unfortunately losing 1-0. It was a great experience for the boys, they did well to get that far.

Liam Reed - Brilliant goalkeeper who's come on leaps and bounds. Each week he's training hard to develop he's goalkeeping skills. He's saved us a lot this season. Proud of how far he's come.

Jake Cottingham - One of the most hard working players I've ever coached. Always turns up with a positive attitude. Every game he'll go away and practice on he's weaknesses and come back stronger. Great player to coach, looking forward to working with him next season.

Sam Johnston - Great defender, who's becoming more confident in pushing up the pitch. He continues to develop well as a defender hopefully, we'll see him further up the pitch next year!

Milic Pavic - An excellent player, who's made a massive improvement over the year. He's come along way, he's an example of what hard work is. He's constant training in he's spare time has really paid off.

Louis Daley - Brilliant dribbling skills, Ball is glued to he's feet! He's an excellent player to watch on the ball, always creating chances from nothing. He's done really well for he's first season.

Noah Butler - Best feet I've seen at this age group! Noah is able to manipulate the ball well with both feet. He's been an excellent addition to the squad and has really helped strengthen our midfield. Look forward to seeing him develop through the year's.

Adam Gardner - A natural talent, who's learnt to lead the boys well this season. He's matured well over the year and learnt to give clear instructions to he's team mates on the pitch. A young Lallana with a bright future in football!

Antonio Desiderio - A dominant presence upfront! Antonio has learnt to hold the ball up and bring he's team mates into the game. He's an excellent finisher and brilliant player who's brought a lot to the team.

Sean Gallagher - Most energetic, positive player I've coached! Sean always turns up full of energy and with a positive attitude. Regardless of result he'll always have a smile on he's face. Which is the most important thing!

Finn Scully - Most improved player all year. He's come a long way from U7's. I compare him to a young hazard! Another young player with excellent ball control along with speed which is very useful on a counter attack! He has a lot of potential!

Overall North, have had an excellent season and should be proud of themselves.

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 9 North

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St Albans City Youth Under 9 South

The Under 9s South have enjoyed a very good season and have adapted well to the change with 7-a- side matches. Although half the squad were new this year they quickly bonded as a team and produced some excellent performances and results. Their positional sense, team work and the quality of their football have all improved throughout the season. We would like to say a huge thank you to Ben Kelly who has coached the team and been a significant part of how they have improved both individually and collectively throughout the season. Philip Beasley - Manager

James Beasley – James is a very reliable and committed player who has a natural ability to read the game. James is a good passer of the ball and has used his vision to great effect this season.

Xavier Fenton – Xavier is a tenacious midfielder who has good technique and an eye for a pass. He works hard for the team and has shown his flexibility in playing all across the pitch this season.

Steven Jacobs – Steven is a lively forward and a real handful for defenders. He has produced some exquisite finishes and is always the first player to try out a new trick on the pitch!

Thomas Maher – Thomas is a pleasure to coach, always polite with a great attitude to learning. Throughout the season Thomas has learnt to play in different positions and is a real team player.

Ben Pearman – Ben is our goalkeeper and he has produced some truly superb saves this season. His all round game has improved from shot stopping to goal kicks and he is a real safe pair of hands.

George Robertson – George has become a tough tackling midfield player who has won more than his fair share of challenges. His ability to weave around the opposition in tight spaces is fantastic.

Josh Smith – Josh has become “Mr Versatile” having played in goal, defence and midfield. His main strength though is playing as a striker resulting in Josh being our top scorer with 22 goals.

Asa Stewart-Harris – Asa is a tricky player especially when dribbling at pace against the opposition. He is comfortable with the ball at either foot and is often at the heart of all our best attacking moves.

Ben Turnbull – Ben has been a model of consistency and reliability in the heart of our defence. His performances have led to him winning Man of the Match on numerous occasions.

Owen Weaver – Owen is a dominant box-to-box player with the ability to pick a pass but also pacey and keen to take on his opponents. Owen has scored some impressive goals both from open play and direct free kicks.

Freddie Yeo – Freddie has scored some sublime goals with his left foot usually from outside the penalty area. His link up play with his teammates has been superb and Freddie can always be relied upon to give more than 100%.

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 9 South 17

St Albans City Youth Under 9 East

League (P 19, W 9, L 7, D 3, For 64, Against 45, Points 30). Cup Qtr. Finals (P2, W 1, L 1, For 4, Against 3). The first season playing 7 a-side has not been without its challenges for U9 East. The requirements to be more positionally aware and utilise space more effectively has on occasion been difficult; despite this, the team work and skills of the players continue to develop well and they have several times played ‘Tiki Taka’ with aplomb. Results has been generally favourably, in a league where there have been no easy games, with only one team beating East by more than one goal. Additionally, we integrated three new players to the squad. Alongside the ongoing support of the Parents, Emma Antcliffe (Admin Guru) and Anthony Gosling STACY Coach, we have renewed belief that next season will be very positive. Graeme & Nick

Will Antcliffe – Determination and a ‘never give up’ attitude sum up Will. Leading the attack, he has consistently shown great desire, tenacity in the tackle and non-stop effort. He has also contributed 1/3 of our goals. Great season Will.

Johnny Bennett – A new addition to the team, Johnny has been in outstanding form for us. Great balance and pace, he can play off either foot to devastating effect and has contributed as second highest scorer with some great goals. Has also been exemplary in tracking back defensively. Fantastic 1st season Johnny.

Sam Corrigan – Another new starter this season, and very effective. Lovely passer of the ball and has really developed the physical side of his game to compete with bigger players. Added strong link up play with Will from right wing. Also a great stand-in goalkeeper. Great season Sam.

Ollie Denyer – Ollie has considerably improved towards the latter half the season, especially as he has been used more in midfield where his no nonsense tackling has been much appreciated. Very quick with a wicked shot, he has really started to shine. Keep the improvements up Ollie!

Tom Flower – Despite his stature, definitely our ‘Man of Steel’! Tom has been peerless as he moved to a more defensive role for us this season. Technically he has all the attributes to succeed and has often proved the difference in tight games for us. Excellent season Tom.

Tom Jennings – Tom has continued to produce some sublime moments with the football this season as he has adjusted to the 7-a-side game. His passing and vision remain critical elements to the success of the team and his dead piece delivery has helped bring him a healthy number of goals. Great work ‘TJ’.

Joshua Kleiner-Mann – Versatility sums up Josh, who has played in more different positions than anyone else. He has developed into a strong defensive shield in front of his brother at the back. Tricky on the ball, good in the air and with a killer long throw in. Fabulous work Josh.

Nathan Kleiner-Mann – Goalkeeper, shot-stopper extraordinaire, last years ‘Players Player of the Year’ has kept us in the game many, many times. Developing his sweeper-keeper role substantially this season he has once again been a real asset to the team. Great performances Nathan.

George Metcalfe – 3rd new recruit to the squad, George has not been available for as many games as we were hoping for, but whenever he plays he displays fearless tackling and determination. Good season opener George.

Liam Powell – The timing of Liam’s tackles are a joy to watch. Developed strongly this season with his technical ability and distribution, Liam has been a very versatile player for us always delivering in every position we’ve challenged him with. He has also scored some crucial goals. Well done Liam.

Max Whelan – Ever present for the team, Max has consistently applied himself again this season, displaying constant effort, much appreciated defensive positional discipline and solid tackling. Well done Max.

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St Albans City Youth Under 9 West

After a tough start to the season and eventually being reallocated to a pool more suitable the boys started to gain their confidence back and put in some good performances! Several new players in their first season with us have fitted in brilliant and become valuable additions to the squad. some good football played with some exciting games played. Well done boys!

Joshua Woodley- aka "woody" is new to the squad this season and has really made a difference. Kept us in the game so many times when it should have been all over! Great goalkeeper at such a young age!

Aryan Benajee- another player new to the squad who has improved very quickly into quite a tough tackling player who is also calm on the ball. Well done

Tommy Morgan – Tommy, when focused has put in some good performances this season at the back, making some important goal line clearances. He also came up with a handful of goals to his name when playing up front.

Alfie Mair - Alfie, also his first season has turned into quite a tricky midfield player to play against. He has also scored a few this season but more importantly has set up many a goal with some cutting through balls.

Mathew Gosling - Mathew has had another good season, especially in defence, where he has made the position his own with some great reading of the game. He topped the season off with a screamer of a goal in the six a side.

Rory Graham- another high octane season from the "Tasmanian Devil" makes up for his stature with some big performances, great passer of the ball and a great ability to turn out of trouble.

Ben Hodges - Another good season from Ben also vice-captain. A complete natural footballer who also has shown some great work off the ball with his endless running. Also scored his fair share of goals!

Nathan Beetlestone - Nathan has now turned to playing on pitch and has become quite a technical player. Limited appearances due to other commitments. Would be good to have him back next season.

Billy Dunne - has great ability with his left foot and has shown this many times both in training and on pitch but has unfortunately been unavailable for most of the season.

Jacob Nyamupingidza - a complete football nut! Knows everything about football. Also has shown what great ability he has on the pitch with some great goals to his name. Unstoppable when in the mood!

Joshua Ladyman - the team’s captain this year. He is one player which can always be relied upon to put in an honest hard working performance. Not to mention scoring a few too! Especially the back heel with his lucky boots! We didn't hear the end of that one.

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 9 South

19

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 9 East

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 9 Dragons

20

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 9 Saxons

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 9 Arrows

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 9 Central

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St Albans City Youth FC – Under 9 Orient

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 9 Romans

22

St Albans City Youth Under 9 Orient

The fantastic team spirit and ‘never-say-die’ attitude of the team was demonstrated in a recent away match at Harpenden Colts. 3-0 down after as many minutes, and against a strong team, the boys refused to give up and staged a memorable comeback, eventually winning 5-4 in a thrilling game. Attendance at training has again been excellent, from September through May, and the team’s commitment to playing passing football from the back has been really encouraging. I would like to thank the boys for their enthusiasm and endeavour throughout the season and I am also grateful to our parents who have always been supportive and encouraging from the side-lines. Julian

Harry Gaines - Harry is developing into an outstanding goalkeeper. Possesses lightning reflexes and has produced several match-saving performances between the sticks this season.

Lucas Pate - Last season’s goalkeeper, Lucas has recently ‘re-invented’ himself as a brave, energetic and combative defender.

Adam Haj-Osman - Adam’s improvement as a player has again been really impressive. His strong tackling and athleticism have been a great asset to the team as has his improved reading of the game.

Angus Kerr - Angus’ enthusiastic tackling and commitment to the team as a central defender has again been valued by his team mates this season.

Alex Hails - Alex has impressed on the right side of midfield this season, linking up well with team mates creating and scoring some brilliant goals. His hat-trick away at Berko before xmas was a particular highlight.

Bertie Postema - Bertie has really lead by example this season as our captain. Outstanding in the centre of midfield he has scored some wonderful goals and created lots of opportunities for his team mates.

Adam Oldfield - Adam has been one of the most dedicated and consistent players this season. His man of the match display at the back in the 1-0 victory at Chorleywood was one of the best individual performances of the season.

Thomas Boca-Mapp - Thomas has mainly played as a wide player this season and has scored and created many crucial goals. His high energy, competitive and skilful performances have been invaluable to the team.

Dima Gusev - Dima has shown real strength and determination again this season and his recent performance away at Comets was one of his best ever in a yellow shirt.

Lucas Berry - Despite a spell on the side lines due to injury, Lucas has proved an excellent signing. Fitting in really well, he has impressed us all with his technical ability and skill both in training and matches.

Josh Toop - Josh has had a fantastic first season and seems to get better with every game. Probably the quickest of a really athletic bunch, he has been a great asset at both ends of the pitch.

Dean Bladon - Dean’s strong runs with and without the ball have created problems for opposition defences and he has a keen eye for goal as his recent hat-trick against Comets demonstrated.

23

St Albans City Youth Under 9 Romans

We moved into a stronger league in October, and initially we struggled with the higher standard of play. We started to train together in the week, and made the choice to hold the players in the positions to which they were best suited. League results were W9, D2, L10. In fact, we lost 6 of the first 8 fixtures in the new league, but recovered from February onwards to win or draw 6 of the last 8 matches. We go into tournament season with a sense of momentum.

Alex Rothwell remains a solid and commanding presence at the back. He has a huge kick, and clears our lines effectively. On occasion he has also donned the goalkeeper’s gloves to good effect. He is earnest, steadfast and hard-working.

Arlo Webb has played in goal for most of the season. We have benefitted from the stability of having a fixed keeper, and his shot-stopping has been outstanding on occasions. As the team developed more positional sense, his dependability at the back was the platform upon which we were able to build a team that has started winning more games than it loses.

Evan Marr joined us this year, and has made great strides as the season has gone on. His confidence has grown and he is fully committed now in open play. He has positional sense and brings his head up to read the game. He has picked out some very telling passes. As we finished the league season he suddenly started to find the back of the net, scoring in 3 of the last 4 matches.

Imad Syed is the complete player, and can play in any position on the pitch. He is at his most effective in a midfield role as he has the natural athleticism to run from end to end. He also has a strong boot on him, and scored 10 goals for the team this year. He has a fine attitude and work ethic.

Jack Reeves is another player who started with us this year. He is a powerful player, who outmuscles the midfield and can kick goals from anywhere in the opposition’s half. He has scored 10 league goals this season and has become an important player in our line up.

Max Winders is a technical player, both speedy and skilful. He has improved his passing and tackling, and has probably made more ‘assists’ than any other player. He has also achieved a double-figure goal tally, with 10 league goals. He has become our corner specialist, and the quality of floating balls into the box has been outstanding.

Ryan Kennedy is a born predator. He is our ‘Golden Boot’ for the second year running, with 19 goals on the sheet. He is powerful, fast, and keeps the opposition keepers busy. Ryan has been the match- winner for us on several occasions and remains the pre-eminent goalscorer.

Sean Magee has been an aggressive and muscular defender, who harries opponents off the ball. His commitment in the tackle has been exemplary. He is also capable of playing further upfield and instigates many of our attacks from a scything run out of defence.

Sonny Phillips is a popular team player, and his enthusiasm for the game is infectious. He is extremely committed, and will put his body on the line for the cause. He has made a couple of very creditable appearances in goal, and has also scored 6 goals at the other end despite playing in defence or midfield for most of the season. For his positivity, his commitment to the team cause, and his contribution in several positions, he is our 2016 Player of the Year.

Tom Bailey is the rock on which our defence is built. He is often the last line of defence. He is fitter and faster than most, and so is often our last roll of the dice when we are caught on the break. His attitude is more Spartan than Roman, and opponents will not pass. He is terrier-like in chasing down strikers and harrying them into the sidelines.

24

St Albans City Youth Under 9 Saxons

Great second season for the Saxons, enjoying some successes and a semi-final place in the divisional cup, thwarted by our nemesis, the Elite Feet Southgate Lions by the narrowest of margins. The squad has come together well and looking forward to the 2016-17 season at U10. Our young coaches have been a major influence on skills and development so a big thanks to Ant Gosling, Emma Tammaro and Gus for our core and goalkeeping training and looking forward to working with Tom Johnson from September.

Adison Meech – brimming with effort and determination, Adison works hard and productively in training and on the pitch – he’s made big progress this season and can be relied on to take a stand in in goal if needed.

Ailbe Tidd - determined and committed, Ailbe is confident in front of goal, creative in set pieces, takes no prisoners in midfield and resolutely mixes it up with the opposition week after week.

Austin Kennedy - calm and focused, unflappable in pursuit and showing some big skills development this season, Austin is a tenacious and exceptionally effective defender.

Cristian Harvey - resourceful and creative, Cristian shows vision and big technical skills in midfield and up front, building on last year’s great assists and some notable scores throughout the season.

Fin Murphy - always skilful and productive - decisive in front of goal and causes problems for even the best opposition defence with big crosses from deep on the wing and some penetrating corners.

Harry Layne – still “Harry the Rock”, for his fearless defence and now showing some substantial flair in the second and on occasion the final third of the pitch this season.

Innes Diggens-Wilson – great feet and hands, with finesse and a worthy feel for the ball when tested in goal or outfield. Flexible, committed and enthusiastic.

Jasper Button - our tireless box to box midfielder, Jasper shows high quality in passing, tackling, running rings round the opposition and instinctively shifting the pace of play at transition.

Luca Callegari - exhibiting Italian panache, Luca is always stylish in front of goal, maintained a high work-rate, especially in the second half of the season and has achieved a solid rate of attempts on the nets and some quality scores.

Patrick Balfe - enthusiastic and solid in defence, Patrick has developed his skills in a first full season with the Saxons and has been immensely flexible in positioning and approach.

Sam Calthrop - playing in goal and outfield “Sam C“ has been consistently reliable - quick and aware as a defender, presence of mind in goal and increasingly successful in the final two thirds.

Sam Estell - an assured and prolific goal scorer “Sam E” has shown his skills in finishing, at working with the ball and dispossessing opponents under pressure in all conditions.

25

St Albans City Youth Under 9 Arrows

The season started in the Red Division away to Broxbourne Whites with a wake-up to the physicality of U9 football before a move to Purple Division in November. We realized the challenge ahead, against Hoddesdon White as we saw our big lead end in a draw. In 2016, a rollercoaster of game, away to Broxbourne Whites saw us battle from two goals down to claim a victory, thanks to goals from Arthur, Ben & Louis, with the parents awarding the entire team ‘man of the match’. February, at home against Wodson Park, saw star-stopper Max save a penalty and with “the clean sheet posse” of Luke and Leon in defence, our first clean sheet in the division. April heralded two goals of the season: Ollie’s free-kick vs. Nazeing and then Oscar’s blazing long shot vs. Harlow Eagles in a game where Callum bagged MoM for his cameo in goal. The boys can be proud with their progress in our second season. We regularly play against well matched opposition, in tight games and they have all represented the club very well all season. Thanks to the parents for getting the boys to the games and training whatever the weather and cheering them on, whatever the score… roll on U10s and “Go Arrows!” - Ian Howells & Paul Browning

Max Butterworth – Max consistently shows what a top keeper he is, resulting in plaudits not just from our team’s parents but often from opposition managers and parents. During 2016, he also has grown as an outfield player.

Luke Collins – Tough tackling Luke has made huge strides during the season and forms part of a consistently reliable defensive unit. He’s also been responsible for many a counter attack platform with some great passes.

Leon Negus-Roman – Ever-present Leon is another of the defensive rocks of the team. His tackling and ball control, often under pressure from opposition attack, has helped the team get out of many a scrape at the back.

Oliver Jay – In his first full season, Ollie’s become the engine of the team, playing box-to-box: racing back to defend or forward to help attack. He has a thunderbolt of a shot and scored a few scorchers from free-kicks.

Oscar Noble – Another non-stop midfield dynamo that can seemingly run all day long and can find extra gears to turn on the speed at will. Has a fantastic eye for goal and plays with a great attacking urgency.

Ben Browning – Strong, tough tackling, ever-present Ben can be relied upon to come out tops in any one on one tussle, feeding the ball from wide or from midfield to set-up some great attacks or find the net himself.

Callum Howells – From upfront or midfield, ever-present Callum has a great cross, setting up some great goals. He also impressed in his late-season stints in goal, with great diving reflexes and some brave goal-keeping.

Louis Godfrey – Strong, determined midfield or striker, Louis will work tirelessly win the ball back. He’s grown in confidence in attack this season and has a great eye for goal, but also splits teams open with his passing.

Arthur McClaughlin – Arthur established himself in the goal-scoring striker role during his first full season in the team and has developed his battling and passing to become a great attacking asset for the team.

26

St Albans City Youth Under 9 Central

P22 W16 D2 L4 for 44 Ag. 31 Points 50

This season was really about getting to know each other after losing a few players last season and the football going up to 7 a sided game, we now have 6 new Boys in the squad, they started the season as expected losing one or two, grinding out draws and picking up a few Wins there was no consistency with results. However, after a break due to weather around xmas they came back firing not losing another game for 8 weeks, and this continued right up to the end of the season.

So I would like to say a big well done for the effort put in by all the boys at training and Match days along with the Desire and Passion I see from the boys this season there has become a real sense of we can win every match we play and that has been created by the boys, also a big thank you the Parents who give me 110% Support in my first full season in charge, and the support they show each week to the team. I look forward to seeing you all at Pre-Season training, lastly A BIG THANK YOU TOO EVERYONE INVOLVED WITH ST ALBANS CITY YOUTH CENTRAL UNDER 9’s IN HELPING TO RAISE £447.20 FOR SPORTS RELIEF - AMAZING EFFORTS. Ben Coote

Jack Creigh - Goalkeeper P18 Clean Sheet 3 - This season jack has shown again why his are Number1, his last ditch saves have played far more importance than he understands at times, this season he has really shown a passion for collection Clean Sheets and he walks away this season with 3

George Parker Centre Back P20 Goals 1 - What can i say about George he turns up every week raring to TACKLE, he has certain brick house style to his game he shields his Goalkeeper so well, organising the defence from the first to last whistle, he’s brought his 30yards bursts to the game this season charging though the field like a Rugby player, he is the Next John Terry a real tough tackler

Byrn Cox-Defender P15 - It was Byrn first season playing football and other the last 8months he has progressed well; he has a real drive and passion for wanting to win a ball back and has a real understanding of tactical positioning during games, never leaves his peers stranded very defensive minded, Great Steps made

Oliver Ward -Midfielder/Goalkeeper P20 GK- P3 Clean Sheet 2 - Oliver this season has improved so much from last season, he was going off to be a rugby player but chose the right decision and stayed with the Central boys, he again has such a passion to win every game , his personality around training and match-days is brilliant for morale , he stepped up and played in goal a few times keeping very important clean sheets , when playing on pitch he shield the defence very well picking off runs without the ball , also aiding assisted from his very long throws

Tyler Gullen-Hall -Midfielder P20 Goals 14 Tyler’s work rate& effort is second to none. An outstanding season for Tyler scoring 14 goals midfield and assist many a goal. Tyler has made an all-round contribution to the team in Attack and Defensive duties this season adding a understanding of the game to his range of skills

Joseph Golding- Defender/Midfielder P21 Goals 1 Joseph has impressed a lot this season; his positioning is second to none working tirelessly up and down the left flank, he mixes creativity when attacking with defensive duties on his mind, when he the right position joseph has a great strike of a ball

Ollie Porter- Wide-Midfielder P20 Scored 1 Ollie has grown in confidence though out the year, a very pacey midfielder has a great turn of pace and can really frighten defenders when running with the ball, has a real love for the game which has added to his own field knowledge

Josh White Defender/MidfilderP19 Scored 1 Josh started the season in defence putting in some real strong performance but after seeing his technique with the ball, we changed to a 3-man midfield where josh really excelled adding defensive quality to the team from midfield allow others to join up with attack, a real workhorse never gives up, his concentration and understanding of football really make a great addition to the squad this season

Ethan Hussan Forward P19 Scored 21 After Departures last season, Ethan stepped up taking on the lone striker position and has performed week in week out his blistering pace, quick foot work and adding a real eye for goal Scoring 21 goals this season along with his Partnership with Tyler has really filled the void left from last season

Harry Peace Wide Midfielder/Forward P13 Scored 2 Having joined up a quarter of the way into the season and missing pre-season training Harry has really taken to his first season playing for Central Very well, Harry has a great strike of the ball and a keen eye for goal, very eager to learn looking forward to next season with Harry after getting a season under his belt.

Maxwell Hayes Midfielder/Forward P14 Scored 4 Maxwell also joined a quarter of the way thought the season, he quick foot work a desire to attack really adds to the team counter attack threats, very keen dribbler of the ball, a real pain to the defender, think Maxwell will flourish as a footballer now his got a year under his belt look forward to pre-season training

James Comey Defender P8 James has been limited to appearances in his first season, but when available he really adds a lot to the defence, the timing of his standing/sliding tackles are at an adult level James will really become a important player has he progresses with team, really looking forward to next season with James as he goes form strength to strength.

27

St Albans City Youth Under 9 Dragon’s

In our second season together we welcomed 2 additions to the squad in Max Austin & Ayaan Hussain.

The boy’s got off to a storming start in the yellow division, comfortably winning 3 of the first 4 games, narrowly losing the fourth and netting 31 times. This prompted the fixture secretary to promote the team to the Red division where it took a while for the boys to find their feet at the next level up. Although losing more games than winning since promotion, all the games have been close, and on only one occasion have they been outplayed and failed to score. A cup run in the new division saw the boy’s make it to the semi-final where 2 slices of bad luck during the game brought about our exit.

All in all, the whole team has had another fantastic season with a very strong run to finish the campaign.

It has been a pleasure once again coaching the team, where the boy’s enjoyment of the game remains our main objective. It does also give us great satisfaction to see each of them improving as individuals and as a team. We both hope all will be returning next season in the U10’s where we believe we will be even more competitive. We are sorry to announce that Max Austin is leaving the Dragons after an outstanding debut season. We all wish him well with his chosen future club. Oggie & Darren

Vinnie Ogden – Remains one of the best shot stoppers in the division and has now become very vocal in organising his back line. So unfortunate in the semi-final with 2 massive slices of bad luck, but lead the team on a great run in to the end of the season. Well done Vinster on a great second season.

Scott Cole – Continued on from last season in being a willing defender and doing the simple things effectively. The defensive unit is noticeably stronger when Scottie is putting in his no nonsense challenges. His throw-ins have started many attacks down the flanks. Great campaign Scott, well done.

Alfie Brown – Has made the left side of defence his own again this year regularly challenging for the MOM award and rarely gets caught out. Formed a good understanding straight away with new signing Ayaan and is also comfortable when asked to perform a midfield role. Great season Alf.

Mattie Verdier – Mr consistent this year. Cannot remember Mattie having a poor game in midfield or defence with his constant running and tackling. The attacking side of the game has really come on and can often be seen putting our strikers through with passes from either foot. Superb Mattie, well done.

Joshua Francois – Ever present this term, he made the move up a division with ease. His all-round team displays have once again been second to none and often the difference in tight games. Has more than doubled his goal tally from last season to be joint top scorer. Unplayable on his day! An excellent season Joshua.

Harry Barnes – Another ever present this term and has performed solidly in midfield or occasionally as a third defender. A feisty member of the team who has shown glimpses of what we know he can produce, but know there is more to come from Harry. A couple of goals capped a solid campaign. Well done H.

Dylan Norman – A demon at weekly training this term, he has taken this into match days where he has had to deal with much larger opponents, but has held his own, taking a few knocks along the way. Very useful goal tally of 12 is an improvement on last season. Well done DJ on a great second season.

Michael Napier – Another ever present team member who has also come up against much larger opponents in a more physical division, but Mikey has got on with it to do what he does best. Illness towards the end of the season hampered his playing time, but he still found the net regularly to be joint top scorer. Great work this season Mikey.

Max Austin – New signing Max is the engine room whether in midfield, defence or attack who never leaves anything out there during his all action performances. A MOM display in goal and netting 11 times have capped a fine season. Outstanding season Max, well done and good luck.

Ayaan Hussain – New signing Ayaan made it clear he was a defender and after his first game we could see why. Not the biggest of players, but his timing of tackles and marking ability is second to none. A stand out performance in our cup quarter final victory was perhaps the display of the season. Great first campaign Ayaan, well done.

28

St Albans City Youth Under 9 Girls North

This is the second full year that the team has played together, and with the addition of three new players they have become one of the strongest teams in the league. They started out the season in fine form, and have gone from strength to strength in league matches and festivals alike. The most impressive story however has been how well they have come together as a team. They can pick the opposition apart with their passing and movement down the pitch, and it is a joy to watch them play. Much credit goes to the parents, who have been supportive of the girls and the coaching staff alike throughout the season. And special thanks to Lorna and Maddie who have helped out with the Tuesday training, and Richard Baylis who helps coach on match days. It has been a pleasure managing and coaching the team, and seeing how much they enjoy the game.

Caitlin Adair – Caitlin is very focused and has gained much confidence in herself this season, which has been demonstrated on the pitch. As a defender, she can be depended upon to stop the momentum of the opposition and keep the ball in their half.

Cora Baylis – Cora is a very gutsy and determined player with strong technical skills. No matter which end of the pitch she is playing she can turn a match around. She has a keen sense for the back of the net, making her one of our top scorers this season.

Georgina Blandford – Utterly calm under pressure, Georgina has been a very capable defender who has gone from strength to strength. She has developed an awareness of where her teammates are and has set many a dream play in motion from our half.

Evie Cussans – Evie is a complete team player, and does whatever is needed to help her teammates out anywhere on the pitch. She is a natural playmaker and her ability to set up a goal or finish has been instrumental in the success of our front line.

Isla Evans – No matter how the momentum in a match is going, Isla has the ability to turn things around with her fearless and athletic game. She is unintimidated by the opposition regardless of how physical and strong they may be. A real terrier!

Maisie Francis – We’re all very proud of Maisie. Normally a midfielder, she switched to goalkeeper mid-season with no prior experience, and thrilled parents and teammates alike with her athletic saves. She also is a very capable midfielder. Well done Maisie!

Ruby Littlechild – A carefree girl off the pitch, when Ruby steps into the match she puts fear in the oppositions eyes. She is relentless in her tackling and ball control, and has a mighty kick. She also did a brilliant job filling in at goal as needed.

Marina McCullen – Always willing to help the team out in any position, Marina has continued to improve as a midfielder. Her confidence has grown at a pace, and her technical skills have improved to where she can now dribble, pass and tackle with the best of them.

Amy Reeves – Amy is a complete footballer. Our leading scorer this season, her explosive speed and awareness on the pitch have also contributed to numerous assists with precision passes. She is a driving force in either half, and has been an inspiration to the team.

Ebba Taylor-Pugh – Ebba has a natural talent as a goalkeeper. With cat-like agility, she has made saves this season that even the opposition cheer. Despite tearing a ligament mid-season, she came back like a storm. In her spare time, Ebba is also a formidable attacker!

29

St Albans City Youth Under 9 Girls South

Annalise Moss - A real asset to the team, does the ‘dirty work’ to snuff out opposition attacks with her strong and uncompromising ‘thou shall not pass’ style, often as the lone defender, Annalise always puts in a shift to give everything to the team. Awesome Annalise.

Alicia Moss - Throughout the season Alicia has shown great potential as a goalkeeper, with her good hands, positional sense and her trademark route one clearances. Out of goal she is a strong defender / midfield player, a confident, strong runner with the ball, always looking to drive the team forward. Amazing Alicia.

Elisa Hebblethwaite - A handful for any defender with her mazy running, quick touches in the wide positions and support play, her defensive skills and tackling back are developing well, and Elisa has also scored important goals this season. Excellent Elisa.

Erin Mill - Uses her pace to close down opposition players and tirelessly chases back to defend. Erin is always looking to get forward, she is often on the end of passes and brings players around her into play and has also scored some great goals. Exceptional Erin.

Fabiola Kabelis - Fabiola has performed very well and is developing a range of passes, she keeps up well with the play to support her team mates and she has grown in confidence both defensively and going forward with the ball. Fabulous Fabiola.

Florence Tatlock - Mixes her trade mark tackling to break up attacks and causes defenders problems with her strong running, Florence is a potent threat going forward, combined with her quick reactions in front of goal, she is this season’s top goal scorer. Fantastic Florence.

Maya Elliot - An indefatigable player, who chases down and harries the opposition, Maya gives everything to the team, turning defence into attack with her agile interceptions, assurance on the ball and tireless support play. Magnificent Maya.

Poppy Mountain - A good all round footballer, with lovely control, a bit of trickery and a growing range of passes, Poppy is comfortable with the ball dribbling forward and has a keen eye for goal with some lovely strikes this season. Phenomenal Poppy.

Sophia Kabelis - Playing mainly out wide, Sophia has developed her defensive skills and looks to support players with her running and passing; Sophia’s confidence in tackling and dribbling is starting to develop well. Superb Sophia.

Stella Ekblad - Capable of scoring from the half way line, as she did spectacularly to catch the keeper off guard in her last game, Stella has confidence and creativity on the ball allied to her passing vision and superb strikes at goal. Sensational Stella.

30

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 9 Girls North

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 9 Girls South

31

St Albans City Youth Under 10 Girls North

How proud I am after a season of such mismatched dreadfulness playing development teams and utterly resource mismatched against the giants of football such as Tottenham FC. I may be called delusion but I’m aware of the girl’s potential and their ambition. The girls have come together this year and have had to build the team against that tide. The intellectual strength of this team is phenomenal so as not to collapse under the pressure but they have just risen to the challenge, fought and are now there. We ended the season on a high and look forward to the new.

Jocelyn Rennie, Powerful and skilful tackles from her along with good ball skills, give the team a formidable last line of defence. She has saved many impossible situations this season and has also been excellent playing upfront and has a good eye for reading the game.

Edda Scheving, Our Goal keeper has managed to get a couple of goals in this season and has saved our blushes on very many occasions. We have played very strong opposition this season and often she has been the difference between getting beaten and humiliation, and has been thanked for that (mostly by the opposition) with a good kicking.

Amelia Thompson, The Captain and principal attacker has strength of mind and determination that impresses, having fewer attacking opportunities this year has not dented her effort or determination. Playing a demanding role, she every time earns the captain moniker through sheer effort and her display of skill. With every playmaking brilliance and excellent strikes she has rallied our team forward and together.

Elsa Leech, Talented and athletic and puts in a lot of hard work. That delivers a quality player that that can play anywhere on the field. She has done herself proud in goal, defence, midfield, left wing, centre and as a striker. Also has a good eye for a set play.

Emily Mills, who says Canadians can’t play soccer? This girl can. Very hard working and enthusiastic and has a lot to show for herself. With very fast developing skills and work ethic second to none she has dominated play where she has been put in the right role.

Ruby Peacock, A player that Piqué’d* my interest she is one of the hardest workers on the field, has an excellent clearing, tackling and running with the ball skills. One of our best Athletes with good game skills and understanding we simply can’t sing her praises enough, she’s an absolute footballer with skill and attitude to emulate.

Bella Cowan, Tenacity and hard work has given her a big respect from her team mates. Mostly lumbered with defence role she has given a good account of herself, showed off good on the ball skills and has managed to surprise the opposition with the foresaid tenacity. Has developed very rapidly in her 1st season which is no surprise given her work rate at training.

Freya Bolam, Also having her 1st season has developed quickly and substantially over the season, seemingly preferring a defensive role she still has the skill and determination to attack when the opportunity presents itself. Very capable and good work rate she is

Thisbe Danford, Skill effort and dogmatic tenacity is what I see on the training ground and effortless excellence is what everyone else sees on Saturday mornings. She parry’s the attackers and sheers their confidence. If given the opportunity she quickly ripostes and leaves the defenders lamé, she’s also an épéec fencing champion.

Sarah-Jane Spears, Heartfelt enthusiasm and joy are her approach. It works. She has a natural talent for situational awareness and that shows in her play. Working hard she has developed her technical talent at a prodigious rate over the year and it’s a pleasure to watch her play and all her qualities have won her a popularity with the squad.

Abbie Bierman, our newest recruit has stormed into the squad with her skill she has honed at the Victoria Playing Fields, playing with the boys. Those skills and the added toughness make her a formidable player with the attitude to go forward in skill and mentality. I have rarely been so impressed by the sheer determination, skill, and work ethic. Let’s not forget she has competition in those fields from her team mates but she is just more determent.

32

St Albans City Youth Under 10 Girls South

(P19, W 8, L 7, D 4, For 56, Against 55) A fantastic inaugural season where the team improved dramatically especially in the second half of the season and really came together to bond as a team. They’re a great bunch, a lot of fun and we’ve all enjoyed the season immensely.

We started slowly - not surprising given we were a new team, but also the story of our season during matches, the management considered banning Friday-night sleepovers so we weren’t 3-down after 5 minutes! After Xmas we came to life, going 8 games unbeaten to finish the season on a real high and give us loads of promise for next season. The girls have been a credit to the Club - thanks to you all for your efforts in matches & at training. Thanks also to everyone who supports the team and helps out throughout the season - we couldn’t have done it without the support of the parents (turning up in all weather, collecting goalposts from faraway lands, shuffling arrangements to make random kick-off times at different locations, half-time haribos etc.…) and our part-time coaches/refs Hugo and Luca.

We look forward to seeing everyone back for pre-season training, have a great summer. Matt, Neil and Jane.

Rosie Rosenthal - Massive improvement to become the shot stopper in the league, saved us numerous times during our unbeaten run. Rosie worked hard on her game and the results were clear.

Esme Bush - “Thou shalt not pass”, tough-tackling defender who never shirks a challenge but never seems to get hurt, Es commands the backline and did not miss a game all season.

Beth Watson - A natural sweeper and potential future Captain, Beth always listens to instructions, grew in confidence over the season and made many vital clearances.

Miranda Wares - A real team player and with ability across the defensive line. Miranda was playing her best football at the end of the year showing great development over the season.

Scarlett Lobina - Has played well in all positions across the pitch and really came in to her own playing as the deeper of two strikers, linking play and causing defenders to panic.

Jemima Avery - Silky midfielder full of skill and has been at the heart of some our best passing moves this season. Strong in possession, Jemima also played in every game.

Ellie Langton - Box-to-box midfielder with pace to burn, if you foul Ellie expect to be tackled hard next time. Chipped in with 6 vital goals from midfield over the season

Emilia Fishwick - Gives 100% in every game, never stops running and trying. Great at set pieces including corners and can throw it further than some can kick it.

Grace MacMurray - Always had fantastic ball control and great dribbling, now she’s added accurate passing and plenty of goals to her game, and isn’t afraid to drop deep to defend.

Maisie Humphreys - She shoots, she scores, Maisie was our top scorer over the whole season and is a natural striker. Bounces off tackles and plays with a smile on her face.

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St Albans City Youth FC – Under 10 Girls North

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 10 Girls South

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St Albans City Youth Under 10 North

The Under 10 North have had a great and challenging season. The boys have had step up to the plate and the spirit in the team has been strong taking them to the final at the Stevenage tournament, quarters at the Hatters Cup, semi-final at the SACY tournament not forgetting a brilliant long weekend at Butlin’s. Well done to all the boys and a massive thank you to the fantastic parents for their support and help throughout the season.

Jamie Fletcher – Our smiling and solid keeper. Cat like reactions have been displayed on many occasions.

James Evans- An absolute rock at left back. Strikers quake in their boots at the prospect of having to get past this lad in defence!

Alexis Awonuga – Great tackles, big smiles and smashing half way line goals are guaranteed. A very strong and focused player. An absolute pleasure to train and coach.

Edward Askam – The 47 mph shot kid! Throw ins are long, precise and deadly. A huge work rate ensures great success on the pitch. Well done Ed.

Naguib Mazari – A fantastic shot on this lad. Adaptable, happy and talented young lad.

Josh Skelton – When Basil gets on the pitch the opposition beware! Works hard to get the ball for the team.

Matthew Barwick – A lot of effort and commitment has gone into producing some very solid performances. Trains fantastically and is the politest boy on the pitch.

Ashton Latter – A double hatrick brings back great memories. Keep up the high work rate and desire. This boy knows where the goal is.

Cameron Choudry – A great lad with super skills on the left. Always keen and the first one at training.

Well done boys. It’s been a really enjoyable season thanks to your commitment, effort and smiles. Keep it up. Enjoy the summer break and get ready for a new and exciting season in 2016/17. Many thanks, Charlie

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 10 North

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St Albans City Youth Under 10 South

The U10 south have continued their impressive individual and team development though the 2015/2016 season. They played in the Futsal county cup qualifiers, qualifying for the finals unbeaten only to miss out on the actual final game by a single point. They reached the semi-finals of the Stevenage Borough FC and Luton Town FC tournament, while running out joint winners of the U10 “Highfield cup”. Away from the local tournaments, the team went on the ESF tour at Butlin’s in Bognor and visited St. Georges Park for a Futsal experience including playing a game on the national team’s futsal pitch. They also raised their own funds for their stunning tour kit including bag packing in Morrison’s. It has been a very busy year! Well done boys! Simon and Mark.

Finlay Evans – Fin has gone from strength to strength this season. Whatever position he plays he always gives 100%, but it has been when he has played as a defender that he has really stood out. Fearless, strong, super quick and very skilful, Fin is a very talented player, well done Fin.

William Houghton – William started the season where he left off the previous season, as a real stand out player. Unfortunately for William he picked up a knee injury that kept him side-lined for a couple of months. He was a huge miss for the team during this period and everyone was very happy to see him back again. Despite the time out William has continued to go from strength to strength and is back to the stand out player we all know. Well done William.

Sam Ejjayha – Sam has really matured as a player this season, his high technical ability and strength on the ball is now further complemented by his footballing brain. Sam is able to dictate games and create goals out of nothing, he is definitely a very creative player. Well done Sam.

Jed Ejjayha – Jed continues to develop as an all-round player. Two footed, very strong on the ball and never giving up, he is the engine of the team. Although Jed now prefers to play in more defensive positions he is also very capable up front, something he ably demonstrated against Cheshunt Youth, scoring a hatrick including a world class long range strike that the opposition manager had to applaud! Well done Jed.

Joe Varney – Joe has surprised us all this season with his newly discovered defending prowess. Helped by his excellent reading of the game he makes it look so easy, always where the opposition doesn’t want him. He can go past players at the other end of the pitch too, with his quick feet and pace he leaves them wondering where he went and what happened to the ball. Well done Joe.

Toby Joyce – The new Xavi! Toby has gone from strength to strength this season with his all round play. He can defend, he can take people on, he can score goals and has become very good at free kicks and corner kicks. But it is his vision and range of passing with both feet that is very special, you have to wonder at times how he saw the pass he just made, well done Toby.

Joseph George – Joseph maybe a quieter member in the team, but like all the others he is a very talented footballer. Joseph has a very sharp footballing brain that enables him to make excellent decisions in a match. He is able to spot the space to be in, when it is time to take a player on or the correct pass to make. Well done Joseph.

Charlie Easterby – Charlie has followed up his first season with the team with another good year. Charlie has the ability to turn a match on its head and has scored some important goals in both league and tournament games. Uncompromising and supremely confident, Charlie is always where the actions is and is still giving defenders sleepless nights! Well done Charlie

Jack Knibbs – Jack joined the U10 south this season and it is hard to believe this was his first season playing for a team! Jack is technically very good and very fast, a defender’s nightmare! Over the season he has gained experience from every match and has really excelled at Futsal. Well done Jack.

Ben Huddleston. – Ben joined the U10 South this season as our first permanent goalkeeper. He has definitely made a positive impression! Ben is a very talented goalkeeper and has made many great saves over the season. Able to accurately distribute the ball over short or long distances while taking command of his defence, Ben is a top goalkeeper in the making! Well Done Ben.

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St Albans City Youth FC – Under 10 South

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 10 East

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 10 Victoria

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St Albans City Youth Under 10 East

A season of highs and lows this year. Every game was a close encounter, some we won and some we lost. We saw some great individual and team performances over course of the season. Next season we need to work on being more consistent. Thanks to my players’ parents for all their support of the season.

Fred Hunter – He has been a fantastic goalkeeper this season. Big “Hulk” Fred has made some great saves including some penalty saves and is never afraid to jump into danger. Next season Fred will improve his passing and controlling his emotions.

Charlie Brunt – He has been an outstanding defender this season. Super speedy “Captain America” Charlie has made many goal saving tackles and has move huge improvement in his passing from defence. Next season Charlie will work on talking more to his team mates on the pitch to ensure everyone is in position.

Davide Lacobucci – He has been a top class right sided defender and winger this season. Ever reliable “Superman” Davide always work hard for the team wherever he is asked to play. He listens to his coaches and reads the game well. Next season Davide will work on improving the power of his passes and shots.

Josh Oluyete – He has been a super strong defender this season. Powerful “Thor” Josh has won every tackle this season and ran back to stop many goals. He has also scored a number of goals with his surging runs. Next season Josh will work on his passing.

Liam Lavin – He has been a super defender and midfielder this season. Pass master “Hawk Eye” Liam has made some excellent passes and core part of our team’s passing game. He has also smashed in some long shots. Next season Liam will work on his movement off the ball to be in a position to receive a pass.

Joe McLeod – He has been a top defender, midfielder and striker this season. Versatile “Iron Man” Joe has a strong shot and scored some great goals in attack, and is a great runner who has made some excellent tackles in defence. Next season Joe will work on his passing.

Harry Stone – He has been a great left sided midfielder and winger this season. Toe poker “Green Lantern” Harry has some important goals for the team and made some good runs down the left wing. Next season Harry will work on his defensive play and confidence in winning tackles.

Joel Whitworth – He has been an awesome centre midfielder this season. Dribble master “Spiderman” Joel has scored a number of excellent goals by dribbling past their whole team. Next season Joel will work on passing early and receiving the ball back in space.

Toby Trewin – He has been an amazing right winger since joining us mid season. Shooter “Falcon” Toby has fired in some great long range shots and skipped past many defenders on the right wing. Next season Toby will work on winning the ball back in defence.

Jensen Dean – He has been a great striker for us this season. Hot shot “Batman” Jensen has scored lots of good goals and held the ball up well in attack to create some great passing movements. Next season Jensen will also work on pressuring the opposition defence to win the ball back.

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St Albans City Youth FC – Under 10 West

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 10 Central

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 10 Boreal

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St Albans City Youth Under 10 West

The team was promoted again at the start of the season and the boys took the step up in their stride. League form was consistent throughout the season and again the team reached the divisional cup semi final for the second year running, missing out after a great team effort. In the annual Highfield Cup, season end tournament, the boys went through the tournament unbeaten without conceding a goal and were joint winners. Massive thanks to Andy Clark for all help and to all parents for their support.

Alexei Rojas- Goalkeeper. When on form almost unbeatable. Improved consistency and taking balls out of the air this season. Good talker and puts himself on the line for the team.

Ayman Mrabate - Defender - Excellent man to man marker, strong tackler, hard to beat when at his best, much improved technique and reading of the game, gets on with it.

Lenny Brandon - Defender - The wall. Solid defender, good organiser at the back, reads the game well, improved distribution of the ball and positional play, very strong in the tackle.

Samuel Morris - Defender/Midfield - tenacious left footer, great energy and speed, concentration levels and confidence improved towards the end of the season, good dead ball and long passer.

Isaac Templeton - Defender/Midfielder - Leads on the pitch by example, always gives 100%, drives the team forward, technically sound, improved aerial ability and positional play. Solid all rounder.

Alex Duffy - midfield - Unselfish midfielder who combines defence and attack, takes up good positions and always moving, brave and tenacious, improved first touch and pass picking.

Cody Smith - Midfield/Striker - Great technique, strong tackler and dribbler, team player, much improved decision making in the final third, can be a game changer, improving all the time.

Archie Connolly - Midfield - Great technique and passer, strong runner, lots of ability, much more purposeful towards the end of the season, sees a though ball and delivers.

Samuel Mills - Striker - Great ability and technique. Improved defending from the front when focused. Good finisher and dead ball specialist, likes to dribble with the ball.

Charlie Clark - Striker - Speed merchant, nightmare for defenders when motivated, Improved first touch and team play, scored some important goals, loves scoring. Lots of potential.

Alistair Lechartier-Rutter - Striker - Powerful striker, a handful when playing well, power shots, much improved decision making and confidence, has a lot of ability.

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St Albans City Youth Under 10 Central

(P25, W 16, L 6, D 3, For 73, Against 51) The Central team had an incredible season and have really progressed since last year. We had 12 players this season of mixed abilities with everyone enjoying their football and gaining experience. This season saw the addition of Ben, Matt & Charl who have certainly bolstered the team. Since the start of the season, we have moved up a league and have held our own scoring an amazing 73 goals with 16 wins! The boys have really worked well as a team and have a great attitude for the game along with respect for the other teams and referees. They should be really proud of themselves and what they have achieved. We’re looking forward to next season as we look to play 9-a-side, offside and on bigger pitches. The boys will have to continue working hard if we are to continue improving. Dan & Adam

Akere – Another great season for Akere. His commitment and determination cannot be faulted and always gives 100% which he should be really proud of.

Angus – Angus shows great skills with the ball which has resulted in him netting 15 goals this season. A great season!

Barnaby – Barnaby played mainly in left midfield this season, where he always worked hard and showed he has good passing skills. Well done Barnaby.

Ben – Our new GK for this season and has certainly saved us in some tough games. A real asset to the team who has made a big difference.

Charl – Settled into the team really well having found his spot as CB or CM. Great skill and always a pleasure to have in the team.

Charlie – Very capable defensively and works well in the team. Some good strong tackles and standing his ground! Well done.

Jack– Established his role in defence at the start of the season. Works hard each game and has really come on this season.

Matt – Our top goal scorer this season with 18 goals! Matt has so much energy each time he plays and has a great attitude. He’s an inspiration to the team who makes a big difference.

Max – Another very solid season from Max at either left or right full back. With his speed and determination he has been a valuable team player throughout the season.

Maxim – Another great season in midfield with the flexibility of playing in defence when required. Well done.

Oli – Oli has performed consistently well throughout the season. He has scored an incredible 17 goals this season and always gives it 100%. Well done.

Ralf – Another great season in midfield, Ralf has really improved this season and should be really proud of what he’s achieved.

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St Albans City Youth Under 10 Orient

Having been promoted at the end of last season, Orient U10s picked up in the Yellow Division where they’d left off in the Blue one. The lads raised their collective game in response to the stiffer challenges faced, and every player has played his part in another very successful season. The lads made it two Divisional Cup wins out of two with a hard-fought 3-0 win over a Harlow Town side in the hot Barnet sun, and are now looking forward to building on this season’s successes at a yet higher level, having also been awarded a second consecutive promotion.

Jack MacDonald– No.11 - Equally comfortable in defence or midfield, Jack is lightning quick in mopping up attacks or haring down the wing. Reads the game like a pro and contributes with vital goals.

Harley Jack – No.16 - With a twinkle of his toes and a sudden change of pace he drifts past the most attentive of defenders. Highly skilful and an excellent sense of positioning on the field.

Cameron Bates – No.5 - A no nonsense defender and a midfield dynamo. Excellent taker of free kicks and corners, a boy with non-stop energy and spectacular goals in his boots.

Barney Amess – No.20 - A midfield powerhouse. Strong in the tackle and dependable in distribution. Impossible to stop his momentum once he gets going. Solid and sure in defence.

Callum Crowther - No.3 - The boy you'd bet your last bag of sweets on to get you a goal, and he delivered in style with a Cup Final hat-trick. Full of energy and effervescence up front - a nightmare for defenders, as well as being a defender with excellent skill and tenacity.

Luca Fiuco - No.19 - Majestic in the Orient defence. Never lets the opposition forward get a sniff of the ball - the best boy-to-boy marker in the business. Lifts the team every time he makes a tackle.

Arthur Merriden – No.10 - The ultimate last line in defence, Safe Hands Arthur is equally effective outfield, his sure touch and accurate delivery guaranteed to create an opening for his teammates.

Archie Bentley – No.4 A club record signing in the January window, Archie made an immediate impression and already has a couple of strong contenders for Goal of the Season.

Antonio Penetra – No.7 - They seek him here, they seek him there, and wherever he pops up Antonio is sure to create havoc for the opposition with his surging runs and unstoppable shots.

George Ilari – No.12 - George's heroics both in goal and in front of goal propelled the Orient to the Cup Final. A typical big bustling British centre forward, he's a handful for any back two.

Luke Hayden – No.17 - No need for goal line technology when Luke unleashes one of his famous left foot shots. The hole in the back of the net will tell the Ref all he needs to know.

Luka Hinton – No.6 - Last Year’s Player of the Year has continued his strong form into this season and has been all over the field, with a decisive influence on every match he has played in.

We've also been delighted this year to work with Zac, a great lad who has trained diligently and shown boundless enthusiasm. And we've welcomed into the fold Oliver, who we're sure will shine in the season ahead.

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St Albans City Youth Under 10 Boreal (P15, W9, L4, D2, For 59, Against 21) The boys performed admirably well throughout their first season as a team –considering that we only started playing in December, the quality of their football and the improvements shown in every player has been outstanding. Their football has been quite enjoyable, with some matches where managers only had to step back and admire. All boys should be very proud with what they have achieved in such a short time frame, both at an individual level and as a team -so thank you all for the efforts in matches and trainings. The improvements in some of you have been so remarkable that the only message we can leave is: do never give up, as this is just the starting point. Well done lads. A big thanks goes to all parents and everyone who has supported us throughout the season –we couldn’t have succeeded without you. We look forward to see everyone back next year for the big leap forward into the 9 a side world. Fabio & James.

Ali Nawar – Started as a winger, Ali surprised everyone for his skills in goal, whit the team relying on him in many occasions. He also enjoys going outfield, working tirelessly up and down the right flank with increasingly good results. Well done for a great season Ali.

Toma Tashev– Solid rock in defence, our centre back has dominated his opponents throughout the season, a real asset to the team and extremely reliable due his sense of position and accurate tackles. In addition, his to long range passing ability from the back has hugely helped the team. Great season Toma.

Luke Tunnicliffe – Luke has great pace and great skills with the ball, his work rate and effort is second to none -he has been chasing all adversaries tirelessly and supporting the midfield from behind. With his skills and determination, no wonder has been man of the match more than anyone in the team. Brilliant season Luke.

Jackson McArthur – Jackson control of the ball is indisputably his major strength, but he also has demonstrated several times his flexibility in playing in different positions, helping a lot in defence as he’s fast and good tackler. Throughout the season his passing skills and sense of position have improved, making him a valuable asset to the team. Keep up the excellent job Jackson.

Alessandro La Placa – Started as the ‘dirty-work’ player who’s never scared of the opposition, his dramatic improvements during trainings and matches have made him a dependable resource on the left. His sense of position is now so good that he’s becoming a real link between attack and defence. Your development has been admirable Alex, don’t give up!

Mitchell Murphy – probably our most talented player with dead ball, Mitchell has shown improvements in all aspects of the match. Despite preferring the attacking phase, Mitchell is now fully aware of his duties as midfielder and has shown what he is capable of. His passing skills from the left have made him a real assist man. Well done Mitch!

Samee Urrehman – If any player can be proud of his improvements, it’s you Samee. Started shyly, your efforts in training and matches and the way you’ve listened to managers’ suggestions have been rewarded with more time on the pitch and with a progress that everyone in the team has noticed. Keep focused Samee, and you’ll have an even better season next year!

Charles Gunthardt – Our tireless player, no opponent is too big or too fast for him. Very confident with the ball, runs more than anyone and never, never gives up. His dribbling skills and a developed passing ability has made him a headache for every team confronting us –and he has also scored quite a few brilliant goals. Well done Charlie!

Harry Muir – An ever present this season, Harry is the real lighthouse of the midfield. His strength, pace and ability to keep the ball under control have made him the silent leader of the team – with his all round contribution to the team he has set a great example all season. In addition, his strong and precise kick has made him the team top scorer! Well done Harry, brilliant season!

Carlos Johnson – Playing the lone striker role, Carlos has performed consistently well throughout the season, right from the first match. He knows how to get the best of the different situation, choosing when is better to dribble or pass. He has scored some great goals this term. In addition, he doesn’t step back if asked to give his contribution in defending, making him a complete footballer. Well done Carlos!

Addison Doyle-Newe – Addison is probably the most talented player we had –his skills with the ball have been a real nightmare for opponents, and his goals a real pleasure to watch. Unfortunately for us, he has move abroad so won’t join the team next season. Thanks for everything Addison, you’ll be missed! 43

St Albans City Youth Under 10 Victoria

2015-2016 was an excellent season for Victoria as the boys established themselves in the top tier of the West Herts Youth League. Tournament football also brought success as the boys made seven competition finals, winning three and we also enjoyed a trip to Wembley as the Herts Powerleague champions to play in the National finals.

Reese Diri - An excellent shot stopper who is always brave in looking to claim the ball from crosses and goalmouth scrambles. Reese will only improve as his concentration gets better.

Cameron Wilson - Pace, power, positional sense and a fierce tackle. Cameron is a natural footballer who can be utilised in several positions and is also an excellent goalkeeper.

Zak Davies - Talented footballer that continues to score on a regular basis and contribute with goal assists for his teammates. Excellent work rate and decision making is getting better all the time.

Freddie Roe - Excellent all round player who has an eye for goal and contributes a good number of assists. Has worked hard to carve out a position as an attacking midfielder with excellent vision and ability to link play.

Oscar Bell - Super quick with a low centre of gravity, Oscar can go past a player for fun and is surprisingly strong considering his slight frame. At his best when we see the big smile come out.

Benjy Stone – Benjy has had an excellent season and has shown himself to be a leader who enjoys the physical side of the game and organising his teammates. A great defender though Benjy has also played in midfield and attack this year scoring some vital goals.

Archie Hobbs – Last year’s Player of the Year has had another excellent season. Archie has a brilliant engine and a great football brain, working up and down the field to support the team. He can also pick a pass and will score more goals next season.

Martin Flore - Powerful brave player who has played in most positions on the field during the season due to his flexibility. Martin’s technique and passing are developing rapidly. Likes a physical battle and has played a vital role in some of our toughest games.

Noor Dajani – The “Dog” has had a brilliant season and is without question one of our most improved players. Ferocious in the tackle, Noor doesn’t ever pull out of a challenge. His major improvement has come with increasing composure on the ball.

Kayan Joseph – Kayan joined the team at the back end of this season and has made an instant impact. Pace, power and an eye for goal will make Kayan a major threat next season and we are expecting plenty of goals from this natural finisher. Welcome to the team.

Victor Nicolas - Victor joined the squad recently but has quickly established himself as a key member of the squad. Powerful in the tackle, Victor can also pick a pass and has an eye for goal. Great addition to Victoria. Welcome to the team.

Alex Strazza – Another new addition, Alex has a super calm approach to his game. Very skilful on the ball with good passing range and also loves a tackle. Excellent prospect for next season. Welcome to the team.

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St Albans City Youth Under 11 Girls North

We have a squad of 12 girls, and throughout the season the girls have progressed in not only their playing ability but also in their sportsmanship. They are a credit to themselves and the club.

This is our last season based on a non-competitive level, we are looking forward to next season, when the girls will be playing in a league. And going 9 aside.

Many thanks to the parents for their help and support during the season, I couldn't have managed without it. Graeme Rose Manager

Time to meet the girls:

Lily McMahon - Goalkeeper, Lily has been Miss Reliable this season, Safe pair of hands, quality goalkeeping. Well done Lily

Olivia Pickersgill - Defence - Has come on leaps and bounds this season, her confidence as grown as the season as progressed. Solid at the back, is reading the game better. Knows when to put the tackle in. Good season Olivia

Katie Leigh - Midfield - Captained the team this year, and leads from the front, playing in the heart of midfield, a player every team would crave. Can only see good things coming from her next season.

Ruby Tickner - Midfield /Defence - Strong season from Ruby, can play various positions and is starting to become a vital member of the team, can only see more good things from Ruby next season. Well done Ruby

Caitlin Hugo Striker - Midfield - 1 of 3 girls who joined us at Christmas, showing lots of ability and am looking forward to her playing a full season with us next year. Keep up the good work Caitlin.

Edie Shakespeare - Midfield - Plays wide midfield, strong tackler never gives up wanting to win the ball back. Tireless worker for those around her. Good season Edie

Caitlin Wheeler - Midfield /Goalkeeper - Her development has been outstanding this season. Plays wide midfield, and we are lucky to have Caitlin has our reserve goalkeeper, as well as scoring goals this season, she can stop them when required. Looking ahead to more good things next season Caitlin.

Keira Ward - Midfield /Striker - A strong player, complete player in every position she finds herself in. Works tirelessly for those around her. Another good season Keira.

Tatyana Barton - Striker - Getting better and better in the striker’s role. Feared by most teams, puts the effort in and the hard work pays off. top striker scores loads of goals.

Briony Stachini - Midfield - Joined at Christmas time, settled in well within the team, showing lots of promise. expecting a lot more from her next season. Well done Briony

Lucy Wells - Midfield - Lucy has suffered from injuries since she joined us at Christmas, not being able to train and play much for us, am hoping through the off season she recovers and comes back next season fresh.

Saskia Woodward - Saskia has been training with the girls. but decided to take a season out from playing matches. I am hoping she will have the desire to play next season as the talent is there for her to become a good player.

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St Albans City Youth Under 11 Girls South

(Played 18, won 7,drawn 3 and lost 8) Our first season together and the girls have been excellent, really transformed into a team, listen, play well and keep going. Training can be interesting as they like a chat but I have certainly thoroughly enjoyed it. They are a lovely bunch and good company and they all get on well, which shows when they come together for a match. They are committed and give their best every game. Confidence has visibly grown during the season, we’ve had some hard runs, losing 4 in a row, but they never dropped their heads or lost interest, always coming to training, and this paid off, winning their last 5 games of the season. Believe in yourselves girls, keep kicking a ball over summer and we should all look forward to the new season. Thank your parents for their support. Russell

Lily Morrissey - Goalkeeper and defender. The team were really pleased Lily stepped up to the goalkeeping position. She’s been excellent, brave and committed in goal. Very reliable, always plays her best and committed to training. Orla Moss - Defender then sweeper. Moved to the sweeper position in February after we had a poor run and she’s excelled. Always solid, strong and very consistent, Orla stops pretty well all opposition attacks. She can play and moves the ball out of defence. Natalie Adams - Defender. Pretty quiet but hard working and focussed every game. Good reader of the play, really good defender and follows the opposition striker. Natalie gets all the hard jobs done in defence and clears. Great for the keeper and sweeper to have in front and allows Orla to get forward. Celeste Jones - Defender but utility. Works hard all over the pitch, committed, reliable and pushes all game. Good in the tackle, defends everything and great in mid-field. Celeste doesn’t always realize how good she’s played. Rosie Littlechild - Defender and midfield. Great player, dependable and strong on the ball, defends well and has moved into midfield during the season to affect games more. Can run with the ball really well and ended the season our top goalscorer with 9, including two hat-tricks. Shona Kellett - Defender or midfield and has helped out in goal. Excellent defending, really strong and passionate pushing forward. Covers loads of ground and breaks up opposing play, with a shot as hard as anyone. Kyla Fellowes - Midfielder but is happy to help in defence when called upon. Kyla is the politest footballer I know. She’s really committed to the team and training and gives her best every game. She’s really come out of her shell since the beginning of the season and this shows now in each game she plays. Sophie Grant - Midfielder and winger. Sophie is quick and tricky and a great dribbler. She loves the game and the team and has really grown with the team. She unfortunately broke her wrist in January and missed a number of games but has come back really strongly, committed and now with great defensive qualities. Natasha Soll - Midfielder and striker. Very strong and athletic, no one gets past Natasha and if they did she would catch them. Never backs from a challenge and has scored many important goals. Scored 8 goals this season with a hat trick in one game. Gabriela Templeman - Striker and midfielder. Gabby is consistently good in every game and a regular goal scorer throughout the season. Works and runs tirelessly, usually the reddest when leaving the pitch. Has a great turn and shot. Jaime Curtain - Striker. Jaime joined the team after Christmas and has since become the player’s player of the season, which speaks volumes. She has been excellent, is quick and has a great touch and control of the ball. Started scoring regularly, with 7 goals in only half the season.

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St Albans City Youth FC – Under 11 Girls South

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 11 North

47

St Albans City Youth Under 11 North

A great season for the boys this year in the West Herts league. We always played the game the right way “pass and move” and were never afraid to show our technical abilities. Our purpose was to enjoy ourselves, learn and Respect all and that’s exactly what we did. In addition, 7 of the boys also represented St Albans City Schools district U11 side to cap off a memorable year.

Proud of you all.

Ronnie Shipp: Some incredible reflex saves from Ronnie this year, always played with a smile on his face and has improved throughout the season. Well done Ronnie.

Charlie Taylor: Bursting runs down the right flank, great 1st touch and covering last ditch tackles to support his fellow defenders. Charlie has enjoyed an excellent 2nd season with City. Well done “road runner”

Charlie McDonald( district): Elegant footballer. Lovely 1st, 2nd and 3rd touch and an ability to read the game from the back. Comfortable in bringing the ball out if defence and starting attacks. Another great season “legs”.

Ricardo Ditrolio (District): tenacious in the tackle and intelligent when using the ball. Even when an attacker gets past him he always manages to get the ball back, superb 1st season “maldini”

George Wilson (District): 1st season with North and has improved throughout the season. Exceptional pace and can cross a ball with pace and accuracy. George has a quiet commitment and drive that always shines through. Great season George.

Finlay Eames-Illingworth (District): Lovely 1st touch, picks a pass, scores some screamers and this year has added tenacity and energy. Fin reads play very well and brings others into the game with his vision. Superb season Skipper.

Joseph Beardon: played in every position for the team and is totally committed to the cause. Lovely passer of the ball and can score some belters. We would be lost without Joseph, well done Mr versatility.

Harrison Shaw: Powerful, Fast and an ability to brush defenders aside. Harrison has scored another hat full this season and will doubtless score another bundle next year. Worked hard on his first touch and awareness this year. Well done “Smiler”

Jake Berry (District): Effortless footballer, intelligent and glides across the pitch, Jake is a super player and makes it look easy. He combines his natural ability with plenty of endeavour and a willingness to work for the team. Well done young man.

Jamie Simmons (District): Great first touch and can hold the ball when you think he has no right to keep it. Clever footballer who combines a good technical ability with a great attitude. Great 1st season Jamie.

Jamie Cox: Excellent passer of the ball and has a good first touch. Jamie has played across midfield and also in defence showing his positional awareness and versatility. Great attitude and team player, well done Jamie.

Jamie Breen (District): superb strength of character this year from Jamie, a couple of injuries that he has beaten and come back stronger each time. Looking forward to an excellent season next year. keep going Jamie.

Oliver Lunney: great feet, strong passer, all round very technical player. Quick and can score a goal from nowhere. “Ollie” has the ability to develop into a really great player. Well done Ollie.

48

St Albans City Youth Under 11 South

The season started with a lot of change. We went up into the hardest division in the league, 9 a-side, bigger pitches and of course the offside rule to deal with. The level up was a lot to deal with and the boys did struggle to keep up. Losing a couple of players to the district team also took its toll. So, a quarter of the season in, and with a run of losses we managed to get moved back to our correct division and enjoyed a few wins, draws and our fair share of close losses! The team started to find their way together and, all in all, we had a respectable season. There were many memorable performances, but as always, a fantastic team effort conducted with great sportsmanship and a very supportive group of parents.

George Angel – Another solid performance from George this year. He still reads the game well and has been key to our defensive line up. He is a lovely lad and a great team player. Sadly this was to be George’s last year with us and he and his family will be greatly missed next year.

George Beasley – Our player of the year, George has gone from strength to strength this year and has been at the heart of our team in many ways. His attendance, team spirit, attitude and performance have been consistently strong. His technical play is improving and we are hopeful of more great things from George next year.

Nicholas Berman – Nicholas has had another positive season. His maturity has continued to grow and his performances on the pitch and in training have been commendable. He has scored some great goals and worked hard for us in midfield.

Dylan Gacek-Campos – Dylan has had another great season for us in goal, despite breaking his foot and losing a few weeks! He has saved us on many occasions with his spectacular shot stopping and his kicking from hand, throwing and counter attacking vision has improved a lot this year.

James Gale – James joined the team part way through the season and has improved steadily. He found his place in midfield and has been very patient starting as a substitute for a number of the games. He has worked hard and his confidence is growing!

Mackie Gibson – Mackie’s maturity and ability to create opportunity with good passing and crossing has developed greatly this year. He has also scored some great goals, including a memorable 25-yard lob over the keeper in the pouring rain! Mackie is a key member of the team and has worked hard this year.

Max Gipps – Max joined us part way through the season this year and worked very hard. He is a likeable lad and listened carefully in training and during the game, making a positive contribution on many occasions.

Nathan Hall – Nathan built on his first year with us and continued to be a valued member of the team. He worked hard and his skill and ability to read the game has improved greatly. Nathan is a great playmaker and has also scored some great goals. He will be missed next year!

Charlie Johnson – Charlie continues to be a great all rounder and has contributed strongly in defence and in attack, even taking a turn in goal. His work rate and strength is a real asset and he is well-liked member of the team.

Matthew Martin – Matthew joined us this year and has been a great asset in attack and in the midfield. We needed a new attacking player and Matthew has provided valuable speed and strength to the team. A great addition to the team and we hope to see more of the same next season!

Jamie McLeod – Jamie has had another strong season for us in defence but also in his preferred position in midfield where he has had the opportunity to play more this year. He provides some excellent passing and tenacious defending ability to the team and works hard.

Luca Ortone – Luca has continued to develop this year and his confidence is growing. He has played some good games, scored goals and defended well. He has also been a patient substitute for many of the games without complaint and is a well-liked member of the team.

Adam Savvides – Adam has played most of the season for the district team but has managed to play some games for us, which has been great. He has played really well for us over the last few years and has always worked hard for the team and scored some fantastic goals. We wish Adam all the best next year as moves onwards and upwards with his new team!

Louis Warren – Louis joined the team this year and has been a great addition, both in terms of his personality and attacking play. He has worked really hard and played some great football, delivered with lots of passion and teamwork! Great season Louis.

49

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 11 South

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 11 West

50

St Albans City Youth Under 11 West

Elliott Diprose – Goalkeeper Elliott joined us this year and has made a massive impact. He is extremely brave, diving at opponents’ feet to prevent a goal, and a really good shot-stopper. On top of that he has constantly improved his distribution and has enjoyed some time out of goal mainly in midfield.

Alfie Gauthier – Midfielder Alfie has shown great improvement this year. He has worked extremely hard in midfield, winning tackles and his eye for a pass has continued to develop. He has also chipped in this year with some excellent goals.

Jakey Chaudhry – Midfielder/Forward Jakey has really developed into a good footballer this year. He has quick feet and glides past defenders. He has scored some important goals and is always keen to develop and learn more.

Finlay Rees – Forward Finlay has been a scoring machine this year – our top goal scorer. He uses his strength and pace to the full to “bully” defenders, never giving them a minute’s peace.

Leo Tasheva – Midfield/ Forward Leo joined us this year and he has been a huge asset to the team. He has played in both midfield and forward and is capable of doing both really well. He has good quick feet, strength and pace, with an eye for a goal.

Finn Geoghegan – Midfielder Finn continues to demonstrate a great attitude to his football. He is keen to learn and always takes on advice and instruction. His passing and appreciation of space are his main assets with the ability to score important goals.

Aaron Rawlings – Defender/ Midfielder Aaron joined us this season and has been fantastic all year. Aaron always gives 100% - his work rate is phenomenal, he tackles hard, is strong and is also quick.

Shay Murphy – Midfielder Shay remains a quiet member of the squad but an important one. He loves playing in midfield although he has been prepared to play in defence when needed and always does well. He has really developed this year with his tackling, passing and shooting all improving rapidly.

Flynn Sweeney – Defender Flynn loves to tackle. He always gives 100% to the team. He is keen to learn and is a delight to coach because he always listens and takes on advice.

Ben Collinson – Defender/Midfielder Ben is great defender. He is strong, great in the tackle and reliable. He loves a mazy run out of defence and has a really powerful shot and a large range of passing. Ben is very much the foundation of the team.

Caleb Ezequiel – Defender/Midfielder Caleb is another one who loves a tackle. He is one of the more vocal members of the team always with an opinion to share. He has developed his passing this year and continues to develop as a footballer.

Nero Wintsch-Lungley – Midfielder Nero always gives 100%. He is quick and energetic and always has a smile on his face. His control and passing has really developed this year and he continues to improve his appreciation of the game.

Muhammad Rahman – Defender/ Midfielder Mo joined us this year and has been a great asset to the team. He is quick and strong and has scored some important goals.

51

St Albans City Youth Under 11 East

(P20 W10 D L8 F39 A50) East has had a season of rebuilding following the departure of several key players and the previous managers. The new players have settled in well and the squad has developed tremendously and everyone has enjoyed playing football together. There has been an obvious progression as the team have gone from losing heavily at the start of the season to winning the divisional cup final! A big thank you to the parents for their support and to all the players for their efforts during this season.

Joe White - Has improved tremendously over the course of the season. Super in training he has been keen to learn and worked hard in every session.

Matthew McCree – In goal we believe we have found a truly outstanding goalkeeper in Matthew, his potential in this position is something we hope to develop further. Great reflexes, catching and imposing height has meant the opposition rarely get the better of him.

Ahmed Mrabate – A calming influence at the back, very assured and one of our veterans that helped steady the ship at the start of the season. Attackers struggle to beat him due to his great tackling and competitive nature.

Jack Longbottom – Jack has great game awareness and this has allowed him to play in a number of positions this season from goalkeeper to striker and perform well in all of them. A willingness to find the right pass means that he can play out from the back or be providing the killer ball for the goal. Very good season Jack.

Wes Mudziviri – Wes leads from the back, his positivity and the way he plays the game is an example to the rest of the team. Courageous, strong, athletic and determined, his defending has been outstanding and he has still has more he can add to his game in the future. A truly superb first season for East.

Kiran Selvarajah – It took Kiran a while to find his feet having missed the first part of the season and being new to club football. With each match his confidence has increased and so have his performances. Ferocious in the tackle but with real skills on the ball he regularly takes the team from defence to attack.

Harry Harmes – Recent performances from right back have shown the growth in Harry’s maturity as a player, staying in position, doing his defensive duties but then also showing great awareness in his distribution from the back and ability to join the attacks with his dribbling skill. Keep your head up Harry, great season!

Owen Phillips – Non-stop from first whistle to last, Owen has by his tireless work rate and force of will, run the opposition ragged, got in their face and won possession back for East. On the ball he has shown some amount of skill that would suggest should rugby ever lose its appeal that he could be a real baller!

Callum Maguire – Callum has super ability on the ball and can pick a great pass. He has a great understanding of the game and plays in a professional and positive manner in both matches and training. A positive influence on the team and a consistent performer.

Arjun Sansi – Arjun has exquisite skills on the ball and combined with his pace he troubles all defenders and regularly leaves me for dead in training! He is most comfortable in attack with a venomous shot and ability to find a good cross. Great energy and a cheeky grin makes Arjun a super addition to East this season, well done.

Sam Bocca-Mapp – Has brought his experience to bear this season, taking up good positions, passing the ball accurately and making good runs. Sam’s ability to strike the ball sweetly, has not just grabbed vital goals but has also wowed the spectators. Another top season!

Seth Baskerville – Sam is most comfortable in midfield where his energy and enthusiasm has been put to good use in causing carnage in the opposition ranks. Seth loves a slide tackle and getting stuck in and as his experience of playing matches has grown so has his value to the team. A wonderful first season.

Charlie Richards – I think would lose in a sprint to Charlie so with that raw pace he has worried every opposition player who has tried to mark him. Charlie has always given everything in each training session and every match he has played, which is always a pleasure to see.

Harry Dawe – A fox in the box? Definitely an animal in the area! Harry scores goals with sheer determination alone, he never gives up and will take the physical fight to the opposition and battle to get the ball into the back of the net. Harry has done a super job as our target man up front, willing to work and chase every lost cause.

James Nash – A natural goal scorer James has the ability to score from nearly anywhere (and tries to). Pace to burn and a desire to win the race means James regularly finds himself with the goal at his mercy and rarely wastes his opportunities. Top goal scorer with 15 in 17 games which was a super effort in your first season for East.

52

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 11 East

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 12 Girls South 53

St Albans City Youth Under 12 Girls South

St. Albans City Youth Girls Under 12 'South' are now in their 3rd year as an established team.

Coached by Carsten Price, they are an energetic, friendly, constantly improving & evolving team.

Assisted heavily by dedicated and supportive parents, they thrive on the weekly matches and training sessions which in turn creates a fantastic team spirit from a strong and confident bunch of girls who simply love playing football.

Carsten Price: Manager, Jürgen Klopp's brother, not really but he's German and looks just like him.... (shouts just as loud)

Katie Hamm: Goalkeeper, Enthusiastic, reliable and a dedicated and solid goalie

Jasmine Price: Forward, Solid, pacey producing some great goals

Emma To: Forward/Midfield, Quick, nifty with boundless energy

Caitlin Watkins: Forward/Midfield, Great speed and last year's Player of the Season

Zoe Cowan: Forward/Midfield, Cracking goals from a great all round player

Elizabeth Roberts: Forward/Midfield, Our latest recruit, strong and skilful

Georgia Stone: Defence, Fearless, determined and a speedy runner

Nicole Plumb: Forward, Good left foot with some impressive crosses

Jessica Lees: Midfield/Defence, Tall and powerful a good robust defender

Lucy Schalkwyk: Defence, Strong defender who never gives up

Nicole Foley: Defence, Reliable and determined defender

Francesca Bradley: Defence, a secure protector, dominating defence

Georgie Reynolds: Defence, Fast, reliable and improving rapidly

Bethany Gurton: Defence, New to the team, quick and defensively minded

Megan Webb: Defence, A new addition with lots of enthusiasm

54

St Albans City Youth Under 12 North

A mixed season was probably predictable as the North started with a pre-season shake up meaning only half the team were brought forward from previous years and we added a few new players as well as taking some from the Central and the East. By the end of the season the boys had formed into a great team rather than a team of great individuals. We look forward to the move to 11 a side next season.

Riley Chalfen (21 -0) - Riley was a new signing and already a big and strong goal keeper he has grown in confidence and is a valuable asset to the team.

Wasim Boksh (21-0) – Wasim came from the central and was quick to show his value. A great defender, confident in his tacking and on the ball.

Joe Knee (20 - 0) – One of the original team, Joe continues to grow in the team a solid defender, he is equally good going forward and I hope he will get more opportunities for this next season.

Zahid Nasser (14 -0) – From the central Zahid is a solid right or centre back with a great kick on him.

Ryan Corcoran (19 -3) – An original North player, Ryan is extremely fast and is equally comfortable in defence or attack, his speed enabling him to get from one position to another in an instant.

Charlie Parks (19-0) – Charlie is a solid defender and midfield who can switch from left to right foot with ease. He is a strong tackler and then can move the ball on with skill.

Andrew Gentle (16 -3) – Andrew joined us late in the season but quickly became a key part of the team. A superb middle field player, free kick taker and the ultimate centre back, his versatility and work rate are unsurpassable.

Josh Doyle (23 -1) – One of the original players and captain Josh is a great technical player. At his best in midfield, he is a great defensive player and equally good going forward but will play wherever required with full commitment.

Sam McKenna (20-3) – Another versatile player from the original team. Sam has great tenacity which he can use equally going forward or in defensive positions. He has a good 1st touch and is also a great header of the ball.

Daniel Curran (24-5) – Daniel has developed into a great play maker and can create fabulous opportunities. He is skilful and a terrific free kick and corner taker as he can place the ball exactly where he wants to.

Finlay Tetlow (21-1) – An exotic transfer from the East, Finlay plays best in either a midfield or forward position. He causes opposition defence a lot of trouble and is equally good at stopping forward moves from them.

Matthew Radelat (21-4) – AN original team member, Matthew has continued to develop and is a skilful wing forward. He passes the ball well and both creates and takes opportunities really well.

Thomas Coulling (20-12) – Another transfer from last year’s central team, Thomas is great on the ball and pushing forward, can play striker of midfield but is very difficult for the defence to deal with.

Louis Sampson (21-27) – A fantastic new signing and out and out striker. Louis uses his pace and skill to cause the defence all kinds of problems, top scoring with 27 it could have been a lot more.

55

St Albans City Youth Under 12 South

Alex Lakin-Jerez – Alex is a fearless Goalkeeper. He is very talented and has proved that games are not just won by putting the ball in the back of the net but by keeping it out of the net too. He very is confident and understands his defenders well.

Nicolas Casey – Nicolas is a hardworking, consistent defender. He has a good natural heading ability and listens to his defensive line. He anticipates well, is quick to get the ball and is always thinking one pass ahead.

Alex Woodford – Alex has been magnificent in the heart of our defence this year. He is always on his toes and plays hard and with intensity. He tracks back and leads the defensive line well. It’s clear he is committed and always focused on his role.

James Justice – James is our regular right back but is versatile in several positions on the pitch. He has stepped in to be the goalkeeper and also plays in midfield. Despite being more defensively minded he still gets forward to support our attacking play and puts in some lovely crosses from the right hand side.

Matthew Napier – Matthew understands his position well and never loses sight of the ball. He is quietly determined and has more skills than he appreciates. He is uncompromising on the pitch & an immensely likeable character.

Callum Solly – Callum is another hard working and tough tackling defender. He always stays with his man. He has huge energy levels and quick feet and always seems to have time on the ball. Callum distributes the ball accurately and clears the ball well when under pressure.

Ryan Solly – Ryan is an inventive player. He is always searching for the gaps and creating chances for the team. He has evolved as a player and knows when to pressure and when to back off. Ryan is quick and agile and has shown himself to be assured on the ball.

Sam Hicks – Sam is a versatile winger who is able to cut in and shoot or drift wide and cross. He has great endurance and his speed and unpredictability make him a handful for any team to deal with. Sam has a good vision and has the confidence to hold the ball and pick a pass.

Samuel Baker-Madec – Sam has recently moved into more of a defending role this season. He has developed his knowledge of football and can read the game well. He has excellent defensive ability – headers, crosses and is not afraid to put in a well timed tackle. He is quick to shut opposing players down and can also find space when his team has the ball.

Alex Lawlor – Alex has a primary offensive role in the team. He has superior technical abilities in passing, vision and the ability to make long shots. He can read the opposing defence in order to deliver defence-splitting passes to the strikers and often finds the net himself.

Danny Fowler – Danny is the engine of the team, he has stamina by the bagful and his work often goes unnoticed. He has high quality passing, marking, tackling, interceptions and great strength. He is very tactically aware and also has the skills to create opportunity for the strikers ahead.

Jack O’Rahilly – Jack’s speed is electric and his determination off the ball is a great attribute. He has produced numerous effective counter attacks and scored a number of goals. He is unselfish and will always find other ways to create goal scoring opportunities for the team, providing many assists.

George Sippetts – George is a natural goal scorer and has showed great composer in front of goal. A master-class in striking, his form seems quite unbelievable. He can predict events on the pitch and is a danger in front of the net that looks like finding the target with every attempt.

56

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 12 North

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 12 South

57

St Albans City Youth Under 12 East Yellows

As the coach I have taken on this team this season and watching from the side lines as a parent last year we were playing a good standard of football with no reward, this season with the addition of a couple of new faces and growing in stature we have so far had a fantastic season and one the boys can be proud of, we sadly lost on penalties in the semi-final of a cup but with two games to go fighting 2 teams for the title of which we have to play both so destiny is in our own hands.

Sean McMullen – Sean has been a great addition between the sticks this season, he has grown into the role and commanding his area and has had some outstanding performances.

Daniel Gower – Daniel in his first season of competitive football has had to find his feet very quickly and through the course of the season has shown marked improvement week on week, not many can match Daniel for endeavour and bravery.

Tom Witchard – Tom has been an essential part of the defensive unit for the season and each game is learning and fast becoming a formidable opponent for any forward.

Henry Cox – El Capitan Henry has shown a great adaptability to each game he has played and opposition faced, leads by example and can apply himself to a number of positions.

Josh Hills – Josh has improved on last season by adding calmness to his game and general ball skills which allows him to build play from the back which has been a key part of our general play.

Tommy Wilson – Tommy has taken his form from the back end of last season and carried through to this year, great engine for covering the grass and has added a bit of bite in the midfield and adding goals to his game also.

Thomas Simon – Thomas is the cool man in the middle and happy to keep things ticking with simple effective football, adding organisation and grit to his game is making for a great season.

Mohamed Moutiq – Mo has added a real presence in the defensive midfield area, tough tackling and tenacious but also great feet which allows his to get out of tight situations.

Sujad Hussain – Sujad is at his best stretching defences on the wings and creating goals, has a mean left foot and quick and importantly has chipped in with a few goals.

Finn Thomas – Finn has been a consistently decent performer all season and since moving to a more central role we have seen his more creative side which the forwards have benefited from! Has also scored some important and spectacular goals.

Oscar Evans – Oscar has covered 90% of the grass of all the pitches we have played on this season and that’s playing from an attacking position! (much to the dismay of the coach) but hungry for the ball and keen eye for goal has placed him well ahead of anyone in the league for goals with 30+ already with games to go.

Brandon Trainis – First season with the yellows and we soon realised defending wasn’t his speciality but finding the back of the net was, since moving into a number 9 role Brandon has scored some truly fantastic goals which most have been reward for mesmerising build up play from team mates, currently battling with Oscar for league top scorer.

Freddie Laycock – Freddie has improved massively over the season and looking to improve on his technique each training session and game we have, has scored some important goals and grown as a player.

Thomas Every – Thomas joined through the season and proved what a good addition to the team he was with a man of the match performance on his debut and scoring a 30 yard screamer, has shown skill, tenacity and heart each time has stepped onto the field.

William Miller – William has shown what a creative, skilful player he is every time he plays football, has scored some good goals this season but has also been a great squad member and happy to just be playing.

58

St Albans City Youth Under 12 East Blue

Aiden Smith - Aiden continues to develop really well as a player. His movement, link-up play, positional awareness and reading of the game gives him time in possession to coolly distribute the ball and make supporting runs into attack positions, it also allows him time to steal back the ball when out of possession and start another attack. Aiden is always looking to spring an attack, always looking to include a teammate and always a willing runner to support the play. He looks to ‘pass & move’ with quick interplay through the midfield, effectively keeping possession and building up attacks.

Alessandro Di Trolio - Alessandro is a strong, powerful, diligent, committed and cool-headed individual who has been extremely effective in a defensive midfield role this season. His height is an advantage and he uses this well. He has the right attitude, is determined to win the ball, holds it up well and looks to bring in the creative players around him. In addition, his calmness has a very positive affect on the team. He has become part of a very strong midfield partnership that works very hard for each other and the team.

Alexander Kirton - Alex has been a revelation this season; he is a natural ball player who plays in defence to great effect. He has forged brilliant defensive partnerships, covering in behind, giving them the confidence to close down the play, always looking to play his way out of tight situations. He doesn’t panic, looks to pick a pass, however, he’s not afraid to thump it long if that what is required. Not the tallest boy on the pitch, he fools the opposition into thinking they can brush past him. Think again. He never gives up on anything and that is a huge attribute.

Alexander Raudnitz - Alex is our superb goalkeeper. He won’t mind me saying that he is ever so slightly bonkers (in a good way)! His ability on the ball gives an added dimension at the back as he has become a great ‘sweeper- keeper’. He continues to make exceptional saves at vital times – he gives his defenders and the confidence to be able to play out of defence. Although growing, he is not the tallest goalkeeper, but makes up for this with great agility and leaping ability, he is immensely brave in the air and will happily dive headlong at the feet of oncoming attackers.

Charlie Battle - Every season Charlie works so hard for his teammates. He, listens well, takes instruction and has progressed wonderfully. This season he has taken his opportunity to play in an attacking role and has grasped it with both hands. His natural touch and low centre of gravity makes him very difficult to knock off the ball. Both his mental strength both and physical strength make him a nightmare for defenders. His movement improves every game, with his back to goal he holds up the ball up for the onrushing midfielders and importantly he has scored some quite superb goals this year.

Daniel Gant - Daniel gives the team options on both wings. He is skill and trickery is often the key to unlocking defences, taking them on and getting into dangerous positions in behind the defensive line. Daniel is very exciting to watch, has scored some great goals this season, has worked hard on his positional play, and makes clever forward runs. He works well with his teammates with quick interplay; short ‘give & go’ passes in order to spring the offside trap and make attacks count.

Finlay Killner - Finlay is a very honest, hardworking, determined, committed individual who plays with his heart on his sleeve. He is a ‘no-nonsense’ midfield enforcer, often sparking the team into action with crunching tackles, welcoming the opposition to the game. Playing in the centre he has forged great relationships with his midfield partners. This strong unit means he has the confidence to close down the opposition very quickly, shutting down attacking situations and breaking up the play, knowing he has cover in behind. Once the ball is won, he looks to set up attacks with threaded balls often leading to team goals.

Harry Jenkins - Harry is quick, strong, committed and vocal. As Vice-Captain he has shown good leadership from the back, organising those around him. His absolute commitment, determination and focus to win the ball is inspirational and this spreads confidence throughout the team. He remains cool and calm when tidying up defensive situations, uses his strength and pace to great effect when making recovery runs and then uses his technical ability to play out from the back or drive at the opposition.

Jack Jacobs - Jack has played a very effective midfield role this season, predominantly in a more advanced wide position, he is very hard working, diligent and committed individual who loves to surge forward and take on the opposition. His enthusiasm for the game, his tenacity in the tackle and his constant supporting runs is infections. He is always a willing runner and offers positive support for his teammates going forward. His link up play this season has been a real asset and he often chips in with goals from the midfield.

Jack Raffo - Jack has mainly played in the wide midfield positions, providing the team with pace down the wings, taking on the opposition as he surges forward to get in behind the defence and whip in a cross. He has a sweet shot and has scored some wonderful goals this season. However, if our goalkeeper cannot play then he steps in between the posts. He has made some superb saves as deputy keeper, and his distribution from the box is brilliant, getting the ball moving quickly into attacking positions.

Jamie Hilton - Jamie uses his speed and aggression to great effect and in a controlled manner. This often results in him driving past the opposition with the ball, or anticipating the pass into the space and beating them for pace to get to the ball, or getting his body between the defender and the ball, drawing the foul, crossing from deep or getting in behind to score goals. This season Jamie has played in a wide midfield role adding pace to our attack, but also strength in the tackle when supporting his teammates and tracking back.

59

St Albans City Youth Under 12 East Blue - Continued

Joseph Stone - Joe adds a different dimension to our team, he can play in an advanced midfield role supporting the attack and is always looking for the killer pass. His touch and technique offer the team a different perspective. He loves to drive forward, dribbling past the opposition before releasing the perfect pass. With Joe you have to expect the unexpected, if there is nothing on and he is within range, the keeper better be on his toes, because he is likely to use his sweat right foot to thunder in a shot on goal!

Nico Mohan - Nico has played in attacking positions this season. He has natural ball control and he has really worked on his hold up play, looking to use the on-rushing midfielders before turning and finding space to support the attack. He often plays with his back to goal, always looking to be an outlet, and is always looking to make an angled forward run. Although he hasn’t scored as many as previous seasons, his assist rate is one of the highest in the squad. It is definitely quality over quantity this year with possibly the goal of the season; a left footed ‘30 yarder’ into the top right corner, with no back lift!

Sammy Gosine - He continues to show great leadership, he is always positive, he is always encouraging those around him, is always hard working and is always totally committed. He has forged a superb midfield partnership with Finlay and the 2 of them combine to enforce the centre of the park. His ‘never say die’ attitude means that he leads by example, covering for his teammates; he enables the others to play with the confidence that if they lose the ball – it wont be for long! Not only will he run the length of the pitch to make a last ditch challenge, he will also surge forward and score goals. What a Captain!

Tom Merritt - Tom is a Skillful individual who remains calm on the ball at all times. He has the confidence in his ability to dribble in tight situations and then drive forward at speed when he works the opportunity. Tom has a sweet right foot and is an attack minded player who wants to get forward at every stage. His awareness and movement off the ball makes him a constant threat, his range of passing is superb and is always looking to make the ‘killer pass’. He contributes to the team goal tally with 25 yard thunderbolts that leave keepers rooted to the spot.

William Austin - Will is another leader in this team. He has a calm maturity to his game that brilliant to watch. He always makes a positive impact on his game, inspiring others to perform. His decision-making in possession is fantastic and his positional awareness off the ball gives him that extra yard of space. A natural ball player with excellent concentration levels, he is a hardworking, committed, tough tackling defender. He has a very good partnership with his co-defenders, covering in behind, giving them the confidence to close down the play. Will is fast across the ground and makes that last-ditch tackle that you thought wasn’t possible! In addition, he scored his first goal for the team this season with an absolute belter!

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St Albans City Youth FC – Under 12 East Blue

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 12 East Yellow

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St Albans City Youth Under 12 West

This season has been one of the toughest yet most enjoyable for this great group of players. They battled each week in a very strong league against some interesting opposition winning and losing league games, but did fantastically well to reach their first County Cup Final.

Player App & Goals Jack Carmichael 29 & 3 The most dependable defence player on the team, with ability and speed to take the ball forward and score great goals. Jake Clarke 25 & 1 Left Footed maestro, very few get past Jake on any occasion, and the bigger the occasion the better he gets. Jack Cullen 17 & 19 Why do so many scouts ask about Jack…just look at his stats. Scores goals from any position tormenting both players and managers. Huw Dawson 26 & 8 Captain Fantastic……he holds the attention of all when he speaks……and controls the game with dexterity every week. Max Emmett 25 & 0 Mr Reliable…always saves something for the last minute, and hates to concede any goals Charlie Haywood 15 & 1 Defensive genius personified…..can outrun the fastest attacker, yet poise and control to turn defence into attack Lorenzo Johnson 8 & 7 Fastest lad in St Albans. Add a right foot to this and you have a quality player who teams tremble against. Mark Lake 27 & 4 Midfield brains, calm and concise, but a deadly tackle that know opposition like being on the end of. Graydon Orchard 16 & 1 Multi-functional weapon of choice for St Albans, from goalie to attack, a powerful footballer who takes no prisoners Elliot Pate 27 & 2 Fastest left footer on the team…..can turn on a six pence and convert negative to positive scoring goals with ease. Tom Randall 27 & 2 Don’t mess with this player, he will turn and burn every opposition you put in front of him Tomas Robertsson 15 & 8 Icelandic genius who makes all opposition freeze in front of him. Playmaker, goal scorer, professionalism personified. Sam Tillin 24 & 1 Mr Ice, watches, learns, then makes his strike. A defender who takes on the role of midfield attack with vision. Aidan Walsh 28 & 4 A dynamo who just keeps running. Add a fierce tackle and speed that take him past all in front of him. Ben Wick 26 & 5 Speed is his middle name. Can out run all but a few, and gets on the end of anything thrown his way scoring at will in many matches.

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 12 West

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St Albans City Youth Under 13 Girls

Sophie Veal - A reliable shot-stopper and commanding last line of defence. Sophie has also proved to be a threat in the front line netting 4 goals this season.

Maz Horne-Batet - A versatile player who has been solid in defence and also possesses the ability to provide a real attacking threat.

Georgia McConachie - Equally adept as a flying winger or as a solid full-back displaying all the attributes to influence proceedings at both end of the pitch.

Grace Barker-Roberts - A central defender who offers dependability and commitment. A rock at the heart of City Youth defence since joining this season.

Maisie Grayland - A committed and established City Youth player who gives nothing less than 100%. Most comfortable in defence.

Sian Watson - Whilst spending most of the season in defence this versatile player has also demonstrated goal scoring capabilities.

Laura Gifford - A creative midfielder, who can win the ball and get from box-to-box and is capable of finishing any chance she gets on the end of.

Katie Holder - An attacking strong midfielder who keeps possession and is always capable of bursting through to make things happen.

Anna Gifford - A tenacious, athletic midfield player who persistently pressurises the opposition to win possession.

Ellie Flynn - A positive player whose versatile qualities are an asset to the team, capable of scoring spectacular goals from the wing.

Jess Simpson - An exciting winger at her best in one-v-one with defenders when she can accelerate away from her marker, driving forward to set up attacks and also net a few.

Mia Pinkham - In her first season Mia has proved to be a prolific striker whose knack of goalscoring appears to come naturally. Scoring at least one goal in every game.

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 13 Girls 63

St Albans City Youth Under 13 North

After a solid start the first half of the season saw steady progress and a number of victories and good performances in the league and various cups. After Christmas our lack of sharpness in both boxes proved our undoing as our season tailed off. But the lads stuck together, and we ended well with a 5-0 demolition of Hemel Hempstead on the final day.

Kit Rainford - We’ve given Kit too much practice this season, but he’s still saved us several times. A saved penalty, and a ‘Gordon Banks v Pele’ reflex save were the highlights of our final day 5-0 victory. Games 22, Goals 0

Jack Geldard - Blessed with searing pace, Jack has alternated between centre back and centre forward this season, finally cementing down an attacking place as his finishing has started to look more assured. Games 17, Goals 13

Dan Ludwig - Team captain, and stalwart of our defence. Combative and strong, we’re expecting Dan to move forwards into midfield on a more regular basis next season. Games 17, Goals 1

Max Robertson - Tough, combative, hard-working, old-fashioned kind of right back – a throwback to the players of the 70s like Tommy Smith and Chopper Harris. Games 15, Goals 0

Myles Donkin - A true box-to-box midfielder, Myles also excels at centre back and up front. A brave and intelligent footballer, who is the first name on the team sheet. Games 21, Goals 11

Sasha Stojiljkovic - Left sided central defender with a good understanding of the game, Sasha has a lot of potential to become a tremendous defender. Games 21, Goals 0

Harvey Connor - With his excellent range of passing, and the ability to shoot with either foot, when Harvey is on song, our team is always a more effective attacking threat. Harvey also doesn’t mess around with his penalties. Games 18, Goals 2

Tom Griffiths - A real team player, Tom is equally effective in either full back position, or further up the pitch in midfield. One of our most consistent and reliable performers. Games 21, Goals 0

Ollie Merriden - One of our most naturally gifted players, with great balance and a subtle first touch, Ollie has performed well in either full-back position, but is most effective in advanced positions on either side of the pitch. Games 20, Goals 1

Adam Leslie - New to the team this season, and played in a variety of positions, Adam has played the last part of the season as a left-sided central defender, and is now starting to look like a natural in that position. Games 22, Goals 3

Freddie Collins - Combative, naturally two-footed and creative attacking player. Scored our goal of the season with a 30 yard, left foot half volley. Freddie is at his best when playing just behind the main centre forward, linking midfield to attack. Games 18, Goals 6

Eli Slocombe - Tenacious, quick-footed midfielder, who has developed into an increasingly effective player anywhere across the middle of the park. Games 21, Goals 1

Orson Campos - Orson joined us in a big money move from the U13 South. Big, strong, two-footed and technically sound, Orson has blossomed like a young in his new role in central defence. Games 20, Goals 1

Diego Pazaran-Butler - Diego joined us in a big money move from the U13 East team last summer, and has been pivotal to many of our best performances and results of the season. One of the strongest players in our team, and certainly one of the most focused and mature. Games 21, Goals 9

Momodou Njie - Mo joined us halfway through the season, and has added power and drive to our midfield. Strong and good on the ball, Mo has a streetwise approach to his game, being combative and competitive. Games 15, Goals 1

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St Albans City Youth Under 13 South

A challenging year for the team moving to the Red Division of the WFL, integrating 6 new players, playing longer matches and bigger pitches! The team started the season slowly, hindered by injuries to some key players, but became one of the hardest teams to beat in the top division. The boys finished a creditable 5th place in the league.

Charlie Craddock - our new goalkeeper who has developed throughout the season and now shows great confidence is controlling the penalty box

Anthony Graham - a versatile player who is comfortable as either a central defender or leading the line up front. He has abundant energy and runs and chases every ball down.

Carlos Marco - the Spanish influence on the team is adapt as either a central defender or full back. Always composed on the ball with the ability to find a great pass.

Conor Kelly - enjoyed his first season with the team where he has fitted in as a wide midfielder - great pace and some real silky skills tormented full backs throughout the season.

Connor Robinson - a reliable player either in the defence or midfield. Full of energy and enthusiasm, Connor can really make some sublime crosses.

Tom Dodds - a dream of a left foot in the centre of the park; the right foot isn't too bad either! Tom can pick a pass to the strikers or switch play effortlessly.

Will Baynham - hampered by illness throughout the majority of the season, but in the last few weeks of the season it was good to see him back to his best and getting the team playing good football.

Dan Eaves - happy to play anywhere across the midfield or at the back, Dan has also contributed with a couple of vital goals this season.

Finley Camp - another new additional this season, who was brought in to enhance our attacking potential. Finley has enjoyed a good season either playing as an out and out striker or a winger.

Jake Fleming - all good teams are built on a rock at the back, and when he plays there, Jake is our rock. His season has been hampered by injuries.

Kyle Rodgers - joined the team in the 2nd half of the season and has proved himself to be an invaluable member, a great engine getting up and down the pitch with a lovely shot.

Louis Baker-Madec - yet another good season from Louis who continues to be one of the most attacking players of the team; he even tried out as a central defender late in the season!

Luca D'Olivera - with all the passion of a Frenchman, Luca is up and down the pitch, tackling ferociously and always striving for perfection - a great debut season.

Mark Allan - started the season still recovering from his broken ankle but once fully fit, Mark showed what a committed player he is in either defence or midfield.

Sammy Johnstone - our regularly left back, who occasionally ventures a bit further forward, had another solid season. Ever reliable to make that last ditch tackle he got the better of most right wingers.

Samuel Doidge - steady as a rock at either centre back or full back; reads the game well ensuring he is always in the right position at the right time.

Will Brown - another versatile player and wherever he plays, the ball tends to follow him. Will is also our reserve keeper where he has never let us down.

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St Albans City Youth FC – Under 13 North

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 13 South

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St Albans City Youth Under 13 East

The Under 13's East had an excellent learning experience in the Watford Friendly League. We were challenged by some very strong teams with some excellent players. It was a challenge for the boys which is great, in order to improve you must be challenged!

Declan Jackson (GK) – Outstanding season, he's come along way over the year. He's developed well mentally and physically. Wish him all the best at Luton!

Mustaqim Boksh (RB): - Rapid full back, one of the quickest players I've ever coached! He battles well every game and turns up with the right attitude.

Dylan Winfield (CB) - Had a brilliant season in defence! Dylan's had to adapt to CB this season and coped well. He's always got a positive attitude on and off the pitch. A pleasure to have in the team!

Freddy Bacon (CB) - A brilliant defender with an excellent understanding of the game. He's understanding of the defensive position helps him make excellent choices at the back. Wish him all the best next season.

Emerson Smith (Captain) - Had a couple months out due to injury! Despite that he's worked hard to develop himself this season. Always looking to encourage other players and bring the team up in games. A great young leader!

Ted Park (LB) - Great battler in defence! Ted has really shined this season. He's become more committed to he's challenges and puts in 100% wherever he plays.

Charlie Barnett (RWB) - Charlie's first season with us this year! Boys have grown fond of him and he's settled in well. He's a hard worker, and will put in 110% for you every game. Regardless of the result Charlie stays positive and encourages he's team mates.

Fin Pile (CDM) - Most chilled player on the team! Enjoys playing the game for fun which is the most important thing. Always bubbly and brings laughter to the team on training 

James Barwick (CDM) - Very mature player, who also understands the game very well. James has a natural tone to shape the boys back in to position. He's ball control and fitness has developed well over the year which I'm very proud of.

William Bennett (CM) - He's best season so far! William has come a long way from being a: Goalkeeper; Centre Back; Right Back to Centre Mid. He's worked he's way up and puts in extra work at home constantly working on he's fitness. A credit to the team with he's determination and passion.

Tom Johnston (CM) - Another excellent player who's sadly leaving us this year. He's had a positive impact on the team. He's an excellent dribbler who makes a presence in the midfield. Wish him all the best at Devon.

Max Bowman (LW) - Another new player who only joined this year. Max's first year playing competitive football and he's done really well for himself. He's become more confident throughout the months and has developed well as a player overall.

Benjamin Heeley (RW) - Benj has really come out of he's shell this year. Usually a quiet lad who doesn't get involved much. This year complete opposite! Benj was anyways first to win headers and to commit to tackles during a game. He's had a brilliant season proud of he's development this year.

Muba Kiomone (RW) - Returned to us this year after a season at Potter's Bar. Muba has matured as a football player and learned to be creative on the pitch. An aggressive player who shows great desire to win back the ball. He's taken a new approach this season!

Jack Jennings (RW) - Jack has done well this year increasing he's speed and shot power over the year. Look forward to seeing him next season!

Louis Postema (RW) - An excellent addition to the squad. Sad to see him leave this season. He's made an excellent impact to the squad with he's energy on the wing. He's desire to win the ball and take on players is brilliant!

Josh Killick (ST) - Started the season a bit slow. Turned himself around midway and has made a lot of progression. Towards the second half of the season he started to find himself and perform to he's normal standard. Really proud of how far Josh has come this season.

Nasir (ST) - Goal machine! Unstoppable in front of goal! Impressed with he's progression over the year. He's become a confident player who takes he's chances. 67

St Albans City Youth Under 13 Orient

After promotion to a higher division and transitioning to 11 a side, the boys acquitted themselves very well this season, finishing a highly creditable fourth in their division. Thanks to the parents for their continued support of the team, and most of all well done to the boys we are proud of their performances, their sportsmanship and their strong team spirit and look we forward to continuing to develop as a team next season.

Samuel Beasley – An athletic all-rounder who leads by example and is a driving force in our midfield. Also shows a strong tactical appreciation in helping the team achieve its objectives.

Daniel Breeze - Has scored some memorable strikes this season. His set piece delivery is stand out. Also made a strong contribution with solid performances when in goal.

Kieran Cooke – Plays a key role in the team. His speed and anticipation often get the team out of a sticky spot. A pleasure to coach and to have on the team.

Brendan Donegan – a wide flair player who likes to express himself. He shows very strong technique and ball mastery and enjoys showing a trick or two.

Jimmy Donovan – Joined the team this season. Has shown good improvement in positioning and decision making, and demonstrates strength and bravery for the team.

Oliver Gilmour – The phrase “leading from the front” was made for Ollie. With his cool finishing and incredible work rate he deservedly finished the division’s top scorer.

Isaac Hannon – strong in the tackle determined to stop the opposition. Developed his passing, with smarter use of the ball.

Ross Hermon – The heartbeat of our team at the centre of midfield. Sets the tone with his energy and battling nature, and has weighed in with some crucial goals as well.

Joe McCarthy – Captain Fantastic! A strong organiser and leader on the pitch who is a cultured defender standing out with his reading of the game and distribution to start attacks.

Daniel Sands – He is a very versatile team player. Shows good first touch and movement, but has also developed a resilient side when defending against strong opposition.

Lewis Shamplina-Posner – joined part way through the season. His performances have grown in stature and has shown great anticipation in front of goal.

Oliver Smith – Strong first touch and footballing skills. Has shown versatility particularly when playing wing back where his touch and vision are showcased.

Logan Subramanian – Shows great commitment and tenacity aligned with smart distribution. When goalkeeping, he is pulled off some great saves this year and improved his kicking.

Max Varney – Intelligent player with a strong game understanding. Defensively solid, he has added to his game with goals, being a threat both at corners and with the dead ball.

Thomas Van Winden – A good trainer and desire to learn which has translated into the versatile team performances. Possibly the most improved player this season.

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St Albans City Youth Under 13 Central What a difference a season makes, from a lowly 2nd division team with bags of potential, to guaranteed promotion, a title play-off decider to come and two European trophies. Life in the top division will be hard next season, but these lads are tough and they’re ready.

Special end of season thanks to our sponsor Vito of Mayfield Building Contractors and Lisa for sorting out the squad kit. Between them, they make the boys look extra special on and off the pitch.

Thanks also to our European Cheerleaders who made us all feel like stars on tour and the players themselves for making this a season to be proud of: Adam Bahouss – developing well as a result of a fantastic attitude, great speed and a good eye for goal. Has improved his technical ability enormously this season. Next season could well be Adam’s season. Matty Bleakley – the best controller of a football in the squad, the ball sticks to Matty’s feet like glue. His ability to twist and turn occasionally gets him into trouble, but mostly leaves his opponents lost and confused. Rob Brown – a no nonsense, hardworking central defender who is fully focused, reliable and difficult to get past. A key member of a rapidly developing defensive unit.

Angelo Calatrava – a two footed central defender who sticks close to his man in true Italian style. Angelo knows when to use his impeccable timing to make the tackle and when not to. A very positive season.

Joe Cussans – small and skilful, quiet and unassuming, Joe can play anywhere on the left, but is developing into a serious threat on the left side of attack, creating goals out of nothing. Jonathan Hargreaves – good touch and quick passing make Greavsie tricky to deal with. Finds space well to keep attacks flowing and has a power packed left foot. Listens and learns well, just needs more self-belief. Luke Hill – developing well as a wide midfield player but showing great promise on the right side of defence. Luke could use his defensive ability and attacking threat to develop into a great wing back.

Dan Hussain – a versatile player who has well and truly established himself as a solid central defender. Brave in the tackle and developing in the air, Dan has made great progress this season.

Louis Johnston – has vision in abundance sending the ball into the danger area at every opportunity. A dead ball specialist creating opportunities from corners and goals from free kicks. Joe Moss – another solid season from The Mosster, our keeper. Lightening off his line & brave at the opponent’s feet, he commands his area, instils confidence at the back and distributes well.

Daniel Onochie-Williams – lots of goals and lots of assists in his first season, have led to Daniel having a huge impact on team fortune this season. He looks like Sturridge, he plays like Sturridge, but he’s always fit!

Joshua Penning – determined, hard-working central midfielder with an engine like a tank and a fantastic attitude. Has started banging the goals in this season and continues to be a huge influence on the team’s success.

Jack Percy – new to Central, joining mid-season. Jack hasn’t had time to show how good he is, but he will, there’s no doubt. Can’t wait to have him fully involved next season. Matt Roome – great striker of the ball with some outstanding goals this season. Uses his strength and positional awareness to full advantage to create chances out of nothing or for his team mates.

Joe Scragg – our second keeper, a good shot stopper with a great attitude to learning. Joe picks up advice quickly, puts it into practice and remembers it, making him ideal coaching material. Elliot Smith – defines consistency. Always plays well and works hard for the team in central midfield. Great reader of the game spotting opportunities for his team mates. Needs one goal then they’ll come thick and fast.

Ben Sommerbauer – great season! Solid Left Back, who bursts forward at every opportunity. Wants to be a striker rather than a defender, but why when he can be both! Coolest penalty taker in the team and full of self-confidence.

Alex Sommerbauer – you will not find a more determined player…. anywhere. He’s fast, he’s strong, he’s passionate, he’s Centrals powerhouse and critical to the team’s progress. Outstanding season.

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St Albans City Youth FC – Under 13 Central

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 13 Orient

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St Albans City Youth Under 14 Girls

Hannah McCorkindale - A player who has speed and skill who can and does play in every position.

Gracie Fletcher - A solid defensive player with fabulous dribbling skills.

Nicole Lang - A rock in defence who plays with her heart on her sleeve every match.

Kate Riches - Quick and tactical at the centre of our defence.

Boudicca Westcombe-Evans - A game changer with her goal scoring and never stops running and working.

Claudia Scrimgeour - A box to box player who has great energy and flare, small but mighty.

Isabel Yates - A solid defender who is are tactical corner taker.

Laura Newman/Monaghan - Can play in defence or midfield and never gives an inch to any opposition.

Amy Cowan - Are fabulous captain who leads us by example can play anywhere and is always willing.

Sophie Bates - Strong in every position and has scored some speculator goals.

Hayley Aldridge-Trounce - A player with brilliant vision from midfield all the way through to her attacking.

Illinca Moraru - Are link up player from midfield to attack but isn't shy of attacking on her own.

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 14 Girls 71

St Albans City Youth Under 14 North

The boys have had a fantastic year following our move to WFL Red Division, finishing third, reaching the final of the League Cup and also the Final of the Herts County Cup where they were narrowly beaten by Hoddesdon. They have continued to develop as a team and proved how good they are at the end of season Hemel Elite Tournament where they finished joint second against mainly EJA Teams. A big thank you to our sponsor Alban Creations, Match Delegate Andy Parrett and resident coaches Brad Bennett & Steve Mann.

William Kerslake Goalkeeper - Apps 16, Goals 0. Goalkeeper, great shot stopper with good distribution. Unfortunately picked up a serious hip injury in February limiting his appearances.

Ed Mann Midfield - Apps 32, Goals 2. Joined the team this year, skilful midfielder equally strong with both feet, great awareness with a wide range of passing.

Jamie Armstrong Defender - Apps 30, Goals 2. Left back very strong defensively and also great going forward.

Tom Carmichael Defender - Apps 30, Goals 2. Central defender, reads the game well and also versatile able to play in defence and midfield.

Hendrik Bockenhauer Defender – Apps 31, Goals 1. Strong and versatile defender able to play across the back and midfield.

Sam Mistry Midfield - Apps 31, Goals 5. Skilful midfielder with good vision and range of passing, also very versatile able to play anywhere on the pitch.

Billy Owen Striker – Apps 31, Goals 56. Main striker, fast skilful and excellent finisher, scoring 56 goals taking his club career tally to 205.

Chris Rowe Midfield – Apps 24, Goals 0. Accomplished midfielder either holding or attacking with good awareness and great distribution allowing him to run the midfield.

James Lawrence Striker – Apps 30, Goals 7. Striker or attacking midfielder, reads the game well, skilful with ability to link up play, good finisher. Dusted down his keeping skills due to our Goalkeepers injury playing 15 matches in Goal.

Joe Williams Midfield – Apps 28, Goals 4. Versatile midfielder and can also cover at full back & up front. Strong in the tackle, fast with quick feet.

Thomas Geller Midfield – Apps 29, Goals 4. Holding midfielder who can also play in defence. Strong in the tackle with a tireless work rate which can go unnoticed a real silent assassin.

Joseph Parrett Midfield – Apps 29, Goals 6. Right or Left wide midfielder, quick feet with pace to match, not many can catch Joe if he gets free.

Emir Johnston Midfield – Apps 17, Goals 2. Versatile midfielder who can also play on the right or left and also in defence, skilful and good in the air.

Ryan Orde – Apps 7, Goals 2. Attacking midfield/striker left the team in October after successfully trialling for Luton Academy and has just been signed for a further 2 years, well done Ryan.

Jarvis Wilkins Defender/Midfield – Apps 29, Goals 1. Right back but able to play in midfield or as striker, strong with good vision.

Daniel Banerjee Defender – Apps 32, Goals 19. Team Captain. Accomplished central defender, great in the air and dangerous from set pieces, scoring an incredible 19 Goals.

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St Albans City Youth Under 14 West

The boys continued in the West Herts Youth Sunday League and with some new additions to the squad enjoyed a competitive season which culminated in an exciting second position promotion in a last league game decider against rivals Kings Langley.

Jem Andrew - A technical and intelligent footballer who is able to support the team in a full-back defensive role but also capable of playing in midfield. 19 appearances & 2 goals.

Toby Hollis - Toby joined the squad this season as a goal keeper and his dedication and unequivocal commitment to the team has saved countless goals and points and already accrued 17 appearances.

Harry Hurp - Harry joined the squad for half the season and made 9 appearances for the team.

Sam Jackson-Hale - Another new member to the squad, happy in defence but also acquitting himself well in goal. Sam is good in the air and also brings some well needed vocal support on the pitch, 20 appearances.

Adam Johnson - A squad stalwart who has moved to centre back and made the position his own showing strength and speed to blunt many a strike force, 21 appearances & 13 goals.

James Knapp - New to the City West squad this season, James quickly felt at home and has found a role where his vision on the ball allows him to pick a pass and get on the scoresheet, 21 appearances & 25 goals.

Donald Mackay - Donald is totally committed to the squad and has developed tremendously now utilising his strength and understanding of the game to become an indispensable member of the squad, 13 appearances.

Stefan Martin - Has taken a position in attacking midfield, his work rate is valued by the squad and energy to follow in has led to a first season as top scorer, 22 appearances & 26 goals.

Louis Paganuzzi - A successful debut season with the squad. Louis is adapting to games and increasingly being able to utilise his pace to unsettle defences, 17 appearances & 4 goals.

Evander Port - A new member of the squad and who’s scintillating pace up front has terrified defences in the league, beware those that underestimate his size, 22 appearances, 21 goals.

Scott Redshaw - Scott has become one of the first names on the team sheet and has built on his tenacity to forming a strong partnership at centre back. Arguably performance of the season as a man- marker, 22 appearances and 3 goals.

William Shepherd - Will has moved to CDM a role that has seen him grow as a player but also the strategy of the team, pulling the strings from midfield and utilising his vision for a pass, 20 appearances & 7 goals

William Skinner - A great player to have next to you in the trenches, who will always give you 100% from start to finish in midfield. Can you ask for more than that? 20 appearances & 10 goals.

Matthew Stevens - Totally committed full back who will concentrate throughout the game. Matthew’s pace has also been invaluable in defence on numerous occasions, 19 appearances.

Thomas Tillin - Tom continues to develop from a goal keeper to his preferred position in defence. A good communicator who is always keen to encourage his team mates, 12 appearances & 1 goal

Ben Wood - Injury delayed his involvement with the squad this season but Ben is always enthusiastic and really enjoys the training sessions, 3 appearances.

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St Albans City Youth FC – Under 14 North

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 14 East

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 14 West

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St Albans City Youth Under 14’s East

West Herts Div 1 (P12, W 6, L 6, D 0, For 18, Against 27, Points 18) The boys have coped surprisingly well with a jump up to the top division, finishing joint 4th and playing some really good passing football. Once again a huge thank you to Lawrence Wilson and Gio Rosato for providing coaching support throughout the year.

Luca Kershaw – In believe Luca is the best goalkeeper in the division. He is a superb shot stopper and has demonstrated he can cope with the division’s best attacking sides. If he maintains his focus and tries harder in training, I will struggle to keep the scouts away. A great season, well done!

Sam Lailey – Can be relied on at all times to put in a strong performance and is starting to show even more confidence on the ball when in difficult situations. Will be one of the best left backs in the division if he carries on with the same level of commitment.

Asher Stevens – The most improved player this season. Has grown into his role as a right back and has earned MoM on several occasions with some awesome blocks and timely tackles. I’m looking forwards to seeing more of the same next season. Well done!

Ed Johnson-Rix – A new addition to the team this season (moving from West), Ed has solidified the defence with his confidence and physical presence. He has been a major asset to the team and stepped up as our penalty taker, netting a number of goals. A great first season!

Tristen Edwards – Has grown in confidence at the back, with some excellent performances against difficult opposition. Needs to work on his consistency, but if he uses his pace and strength to even more effect, he will become a superb defender.

Ed Young – Has shown the flexibility to play in a number of positions this season. He is starting to grow into the midfield role having progressed from defence. Has provided some solid performances and now needs to focus on his ability to assist and score goals.

Ben Spencer – Started off slowly this season, but ended it really strongly. His fitness levels are second to none and he can be the catalyst for us in winning games. If he starts next season as well as he ended this and with a focus on scoring goals, we will be battling for the top spot.

Fazan Uddin – Has matured during the course of the season, and in my eyes is the most naturally gifted playmaker in the team. He has the ability to effortlessly control the game and link up with the rest of the midfield. He is now winning more challenges and if he continues to progress at his current rate will be vying for Player of the Season in a years’ time.

Kobi Nelson – A new arrival this season, Kobi has really impressed me. He is a natural attacking midfielder and has amazing confidence on the ball. With further development on his ability to track back and win the ball, he will become the complete package. A great first season and a pleasure to have in the team.

Luke Smiith – Luke has been a sensation on the right wing this season. His confidence has grown and he is able to take on the strongest defenders with his pace and close ball control. His physical game has improved and he has been sorely missed in the last few games as a result of injury. Can’t wait to have him back next season!

Aaron Peter – For me, still one of the most naturally gifted footballers in the team. He always puts in a shift and works really hard for the team, both attacking and defending. The physicality of the division has restricted his free flowing football at times, but I know that next season will be a great one for him!

Ben Adshead – Started this season in more of an attacking role and demonstrated his worth to the team by scoring some blistering goals. He is a big, physical player and one which we have missed for half of the season due to injury. I can’t wait to see him back, scoring goals and putting “the fear of God” into opposition defences. Target for league goals next season is 25!

Harry Peter – Harry has demonstrated why he deserved a place back in the team. He’s our top scorer, with all his goals conjured up from instinct and natural ability. As with his brother, if he works on his physical game, he will be unstoppable. Target for league goals next season is 25!!!!

We’ve had a number of players drop out this season due to the step up and physical nature of the division. I’d like to thank James Liu, Henry Oliver, Bradley Osborn and Carriagh Fennessy for their contribution this season and wish them all the best for the future, hoping they continue to enjoy playing football.

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St Albans City Youth Under 14 Orient*

Connor Blight – Captain - throughout this season I have watched Connor mature into a great captain. The strongest midfield player this season.

Louis McNamara - Vice- Captain - Much improved season. Created a few cheeky ad magnificent goals, key to watching the midfield.

Kai Hobbs - Plays up front, wicked corner kicks. Key to watching and working midfield. Steadily improved player.

Alex Sharkey - What a cool lad, put a couple of cracking goals away this season, 'out of boredom' he tells me! When one was disallowed, he only put an identical ball in the net 5 minutes later.

Harry Peter - What a great player. Putting away 30 goals for us this season. Super lad to work with, wish him well in the future.

Peter Rock (Pocket Rocket, 'the Rock') - Lovely, keen lad, pleasure to work with. Putting away some great goals this season but stop dancing and keep scoring!

Joe Button - Our little ‘scholesy’, fast, strong and hardworking first season in football. Brilliant player.

Drey Collarbone - A disciplined player for me this season, grown and improved within the team. Good lad!

Sam Doughty - Much improved player from the start of the season, growing and maturing into a strong team player.

Bly Wilding - Our 'twinkle toes'! Strong, hardworking centre back who doesn't mind tiptoeing a few balls through the midfield straight into the back of the net.

Nicholas Curtis - Strong, versatile player famous for some lovely long range goals. Pleasure to have on the team.

Alfie Hansard -Scales - Versatile in defence and goal. An excellent player, saving vital goals.

Emmanuel Abu-Sayf - A mature and happy goalkeeper, saved some vital goals from the opposition. Good team player.

Sean Curran - Cheeky, funny, lovely lad. A new team member who shows willing and promise to progress into the team.

*Please note this is last year’s team write-up

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St Albans City Youth Under 15 Girls North

Manager: Claire Trulock Coach: Sam Mardle + Brad Bennett A season with its highs and lows for us, however thoroughly enjoyable as always, culminated in a very successful tour where all of the girls were a pleasure to coach and be around, all of the parents should be proud. Our season really kick started with about four months left with the girls putting in some excellent displays, especially really showing an understanding on defensive shape, their effort and hard work was rewarded with a massive 8:0 win over Bengeo! A massive thank you to all of the parent helpers and Claire from whom without all of this wouldn’t be possible. It is greatly appreciated by Me, Sam and all of the girls!

Katie Runacres, 1: Katie has had a good season this year, making some great saves from distance and 1on1s. Her Kicking has improved throughout the year, culminating in her scoring a drop kick on tour which has all the girls wondering how she didn’t win goal of the tournament. Brilliant stuff Katie.

Zoe Chick, 9: Zoe has once again had a really strong season! She has transitioned herself from a left back to a competent striker, excelling in bringing others into play but also being able to drive with the ball showing great power. She has had her best goal scoring season for us as well this year. Excellent Chick!

Isobel Todd, 14: Isobel has been once again one of the most consistent performers in the team with many superb displays. Very brave, not fussy and will block anything, Isobel has the ability to play, very quietly turning into an excellent holding midfield player as well. Quality Isobel!

Claudia Smith, 12: Claudia has been a rock at the heart of the defence this year and has now got the all-round game becoming a top centre half. Her performance in the match against Wimbledon this year was one of the best I have ever seen from a defender (10/10), an absolute joy to coach and a great attitude! Top stuff Claudia.

Jess Levy, 11: Jess this year has had another superb season. She is a fearless tackler and has the ability to dominate any striker in the league. Jess’s strengths aren’t just in her tackling but she also has great speed making some great recovery tackles. A true organiser of the defence. A fantastic season Jess!

Emma Wilkinson, 5: Emma has had an excellent season this year, especially as it was her first year in football. Mainly playing as a holding midfielder she perfected the art of protecting her back four making some crucial tackles and interceptions. A key eye for a pass she can transition defence to attack well. Well done Emma!

Jess Leigh, 6: Jay has once again been superb this year, a real athlete with a tremendous amount of ability, her power when driving with a football is a joy to watch. Our leading goal scorer this year she has been excellent when in attack and has become an exceptional leader on the pitch. Excellent Jay!

Lorna Speed, 4: Lorna has spent the year mainly playing out wide providing some moments of magic. Doing some coaching for the club has clearly helped as she has become an intelligent footballer and is always looking to improve herself. Great season Lorna!

Maddie Merrit, 8: Although 2 years younger than some of her opponents Maddie’s footballing brain is leap years ahead of most. A great passer of the ball, she can break the lines of most defences. You are a quality player Maddie; you need to start believing it! Well done.

Ffion Williams, 17: What to say about Ffion? Well a truly exceptional player who has once again shone this year. A phrase that is associated with Ffion now is simply ‘who’s gonna be in your back pocket this week?’. A true soldier, leader and confident girl with 100% commitment and real class when she plays on the pitch. Splendid season Ffion.

Ollie Chrisp, 3: Ollie this year has improved leaps and bounds, although slight in build she is a real tough competitor on the pitch. Mainly playing at full back this year she has performed brilliantly always running herself into the ground whilst producing moments of quality. Excellent year Ollie!

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St Albans City Youth Under 15 Girls North - Continued

Maddy Donaldson, 7: GK, RB, CM, LW, RW and ST. Simply these are all the positions Maddy has played this year and played without any fuss and real quality. A real workhorse she will always give 100% for the team. Trust me Maddy all of the girls appreciate your unselfishness and commitment. Great Season Maddy!

Jessica Clifford, 15: Jess has really improved throughout the season. Her first year with the team, she has produced some solid performances learning how to become an effective attacking player. This has showed with some powerful shooting and good passing. Brilliant Jess

Eleanor Keating, 10: Our midfield Dynamo, if you asked this girl to play a pass with her eyes closed it would find its target. An outstanding season Eleanor has provided assist after assist this year playing some lovely passes but to go with it she can break up play superbly make crucial interceptions and tackles. Superb!

Melissa Trulock, 2: Melissa has mainly spent this season playing right midfield producing some lovely crosses and has scored some great goals, finishing really well. She has really kicked on with her season in the last four months with this culminating in two man of the match performances vs Tottenham Ladies. Well done Melissa.

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 15 Girls North

78

St Albans City Youth Under 15 Girls South

St Albans City U15 South Squad has been playing together since they were U10. This season we have welcomed 3 new girls to our squad and we play together in the Herts Girls FA League Division 1. The team is managed by Andy Sibley.

Amy Martin -(GK)- A fantastic new signing this season, an amazing shot stopper and so quick out of her goal area, who brings fear onto any strikers who dare try to score against her.

Emily Sibley -She has been a goal keeper for 6 seasons and now wishes to play as a striker and has one of the best shots in the team. She is extremely strong and improves week on week.

Alice Benson -(Midfield)-Gives 120% every game, she is fast and aggressive into the tackle, she has been outstanding in her 2nd season and she is equal top goal scorer.

Hannah Martin (Defence)-Solid on the right side of defence works hard and is a credit to the team, one of the most improved in the team this season and her game awareness and tackling is on the up.

Sophie Hegerty -(Defence)-Super Sophie is an outstanding athlete who is extremely quick and can always be relied upon to make the final tackle; she has also played well going forward, she is learning new tricks all the time and willing to take on anyone that stands in her way.

Ellie Holder -(Defence)-Ellie is a strong player that can play on either side of the pitch and has improved massively this season. She is extremely well disciplined and has found her position in defence; she covers her team mates to make the final tackle.

Lauren Walker -(Midfield)-is one of the most naturally gifted players on the left side of midfield whose ball control is admired by all. She has battled hard in Midfield as she often has to fend off three or four defenders at one time.

Phoebe Skinner -(Midfield)-Phoebe one of the most improved tacklers this season who started her football career as a striker then midfield. She never backs out of a tackle and gives 100% effort every game.

Grainne Kellett -(Midfield)-G is like lightening down the right hand side and many defenders struggle to keep up with her pace. Her tackling has improved greatly this season as well as her shooting. She is equal top goal scorer.

Charlotte Banks -(Midfield)-Charlotte is a versatile player that picks out her passes with great accuracy and can play anywhere on the pitch and always gives her all on match days. She is an asset to the team in the number 10 role and has scored the best goal of the season.

Chloe Dearmun -(Striker)-She always tries her best and is a great team player. Her passing has improved this season and she chases after every ball. Her physical game is excellent so bring on the goals.

Kira Close -(Defender)Kira is the terrier of the team that battles for every ball and slide tackles anything that moves, a true team player that covers every blade of grass on the pitch and works her socks off every game.

Lotty Nicholls -(Midfield)- A County player that works extremely hard every match. Her ferocity in the tackle is clear to see and many opposing players bottle it when Lotty is about to make contact. Her passing and shooting is improving all the time, a true asset to the South squad.

Charlie Webb --(Striker)-Learning all the time and her fitness has really improved, Charlie is physical in the tackle and her ball skills and shooting has improved this season. It won’t be long before the goals start flying in.

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St Albans City Youth FC – Under 15 Girls South

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 15 North

80

St Albans City Youth Under 15 North

Manager: Graham Watts, Coach: Paul Roberts, Secretary/Delegate: Helen Day

Matt Breeze – Matt has great skill when dribbling. He works hard for the team and with his speed makes a great all round winger.

Cameron Clark – Cameron has played a number of positions this year including goalkeeper; a strong player with a good mental attitude and who has proved to be a vital player throughout the season.

Ollie Davies – Ollie has great stamina, always chasing down loose balls, and has a good defensive mind. Unfortunately Ollie will be leaving us this season - the team would like to thank him and wish him luck in the future.

Dominic Dee – Dominic moved to left back this season and has put in a number of Man of the Match performances. With his speed, he gives us an extra dimension.

Sam Day – Sam always gives 110% and his ability on the pitch this season has dramatically improved. His drive to win the ball is phenomenal and he picks a good pass to help the team forward.

Victor Dehon – Victor has great physical strength for his size. His awareness is second to none and he packs amazing power into a header.

Rob Devine – Rob, in his first season, has battled endlessly in the midfield and scored a cheeky chip from way outside the box.

Ben Dimmock – Ben is a strong individual whose technical ability has improved greatly this season. He has developed a sense of flair and finesse to his game. The rock of our team!

Nathan Glasscoe – Nathan is without a doubt one of the best shot-stoppers in the league. A pleasure to work with and has an excellent track record of saving penalties.

Archie Hall – Archie is a new member of the squad who everyone would agree is a fantastic footballer; never happy with his own performance but puts a constantly high level of football on display every week.

George Heeley – George has shown his ability and class this season both in training and on the pitch, scoring a few great goals.

Jack Hughes – Jack makes scoring goals look easy even in the most difficult situation; scoring 18 goals in 3 games in the top division is no easy feat; a massive team member and one of the top goal scorers in the league.

Rob McKee – Rob is one of the most hard-working players in the team with a great attitude. His skill level is immense and he can make an opportunity on goal out of nothing.

Adam Roberts – Adam is another of the most hard-working team members you can have on the pitch chasing every ball he can. Adam is creative and doesn’t usually put a foot wrong.

Cameron Smith – Cameron has been with the team from the start; he probably doesn’t play as much as he wants to but always tries his best.

Harry Watts – Harry can play anywhere on the right. Good positional play; knows when to play a pass. A very good team player who always gives 100%.

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St Albans City Youth Under 15 South

The lads passed the test of our first season in the top red division with flying colours finishing with a fine fourth place and the accolade as the highest placed side in the district. Many of the games were very competitive and the lads showed an excellent attitude and resilience and certainly all developed technically and improved as the season progressed. A great team bonding tour to Bruges over Easter and already looking forward to next season with hopefully the same group. My thanks as always to the parents for all their support and attendance and to Tony, Neil and Mark for their help with the training and games.

Lee Axworthy, goalkeeper ,16 appearances. Despite a few injuries, Lee was instrumental in keeping us alive in quite a few tight games with his excellent shot stopping and keeping the back four on their toes.

Joe Casali 23 appearances 1 goal (in a friendly from the penalty spot) - A new signing and had a superb season mainly at right back always keen to spot an overlap and tigerish in the tackle

Callum Hunter 18,1 - defender. A stop start season interrupted by injuries but found a rich vein of form at the end and did a fine job for the team as back up keeper with borrowed gardening gloves.

Ernesto Rodriguez 20,1 -Centre back. Captain fantastic, a real leader strong in the tackle with a South American hardness and skilful range of passes.

Tom Kellard 23,1 - centre back. Superb attitude in training and great reader of the game. No stranger to the slide tackle. Joker in the pack.

Callum Furness 21.1 - left back. Athletic full back and probably our fastest player with a change of gears and long stride clearly not in the family genes.

Adam Pringle 19,1- centre mid/back. Superb in the air and telescopic legs pickpocket opponents in the tackle. Loves a bit of criticism from the sidelines to get his juices flowing!

Jack Fletcher 17,4- defender/ midfielder. Bionic throw in, powerful runner hard to stop when in full flow. Versatile in positions.

Harrison Doyle 21,3 Midfielder/winger. Player of the Bruges tournament, technically gifted and winner of three headers in five minutes.

Scott Gentle 22,2 CDM, reluctant centre back. Very competitive, strong tackler and good range of passing, excellent all round midfielder.

Max Bell 23,1 CDM Even more competitive, heartbeat of the team and developed a trick or two. Added skill to his steel.

Harrison Arnold 22,8 Attacking midfielder. Unlucky with injuries but scoring ratio excellent and two footed. Excellent long passer and powerful runner.

Fin Banks 20,3 Attacking midfielder. Two footed, own worst critic, technically adept and massive improver. Looks set for a big role next season.

Joe Newton 23,13 Attack. Attack. Attack. Talisman, one of the originals and well respected by rest of team. Super left peg.

Harry Smith 21,13. Attacking midfielder. Creator, dribbler and set piece expert. Technically first class and strong in possession. Top, top player.

Ross Weaver 21,16. Centre forward. Top goal scorer, can be deadly with cool finishing and eye for a half chance. Insatiable appetite to score.

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St Albans City Youth Under 15 East

The boys have had a great start in the West Herts first division, beating some of the strongest teams to finish half way up the table. With great direction from their coach Anthony Goslin they have worked hard to support each other during some challenging matches.

Alex Gates (Goalie) – Had more to do this year than previous years, again pulling off some great saves and having the odd hissy fit in the process. A fantastic kicker of the ball and a goalie that just keeps improving season after season.

Demetrius Johnson (Striker). No one can toe thump the goals in like our Meetch. Main goal scorer with a fantastic hat trick to his name (we all remember it). Has been head hunted by other clubs. Meetch is well respected by all his team mates and somebody you'd always want standing with you. Top bloke.

Jacques Nolte-Nel (Defender). Jacques again gives another consistent season full of high performance. Moved him into Center Back for a few games and he flourished. Reads the game so well, times his tackles perfectly and will always work for his team mates. Great to have him in the team.

Harry Doherty (Defender) – He’ll chase the ball as long as its close to him otherwise he won’t bother. However get him to attack a corner and he'll move at rocket speed (and he’ll just score header after header). Like a few boys he wears his heart on his sleeve. Wants to win. Glad he's on our side.

Owen Field (Defender) – Great season from Owen, banging in slide tackle after slide tackle. Leads by example and will always back his team mates up. Quietly goes about his business on the pitch and doesn’t shy away from the physical side of the game. A real tower of strength for the team. A leader.

Musa Sakkejha (Midfielder) – Musa always comes alive towards the end of the season to show the team what he has in his locker. Great feet, great strength and on his day can give a fantastic performance. Not seen anyone else that can control a ball from any height on their chest like Musa. His biggest fan is his brother. A happy Musa is a well playing Musa - Well liked by all his team mates.

Stefano Finco(Forward) – Pace and strength best describe Stefano. He simply tears up the ground and drives defenders mad trying to deal with his pace, strength and fitness. A total running machine that loves to score. An absolute gem to have in the team and a lad that thrives on competition. Stefano will always support his team mates no matter what.

Callum Sweeney(Winger) – Technical, Quick and Fit. Callum can use both feet to spray the ball around the pitch. Happy to drop corners straight onto Harry's head. Has played some lovely passes through to the attackers - cutting defenders wide open in the process. Has a quick footballing mind and like Harry & Musa wears his heart on his sleeve. Wants to win.

Kia Quait (Midfield) –Kia’s dribbling abilities are second to none and he has used them to his advantage, he can take the ball from midfield and just carve through the defence, a pleasure to watch. Others can learn from the way he out jumps boys nearly twice his size. Like Daniel Kai can get himself out of the tightest of spots leaving defenders scratching their heads.

Daniel McGarry (Midfield) - We built the midfield around 'Diamond Dan'. Lost count of how many times Dan will turn a player inside out and upside down. Perhaps the most technical player in the team and he also gets the odd monster tackle in. Dan will always get himself out of an impossible situation with pure footwork. Great to watch him go about his business.

Pedro Brown (Midfield) - Pedro's first season and he's made a real impact with the boys. He doesn't shy away from tackles and will put his body on the line for his team mates. Has made some fantastic runs and then gets shot by a sniper just before he shoots. Always upbeat, always gives everything. A pleasure to have in the team.

Jordan Garner (Midfield) - Jordan is perhaps the most improved player this season. Holds the ball up extremely well and shown a massive improvement in his technical ability. It's obvious he's put in extra training to get himself to this level so quickly. Don't tell Jordan he can't do something as he'll prove you wrong. Jordan is a great example of somebody that fights for what they want.

David Ikete (Forward) - David wants to win at any cost. He'll keep going no matter what the situation or regardless of the score. Extremely strong and somebody you don't want marking you as he will probably just go through you. He's taken a hit for the team in a few matches where we've need his strength and speed at the back. A real team player.

Lockey Hedge (Forward) - Similar to Kai and Callum, Lockey is a quick thinker and extremely technical. Frequently twisting defenders inside out and going on excellent runs. Well-liked by his team mates. Lockey like others wears his heart on his sleeve and can be tough on himself. He simply wants to win. Great to have him in the squad.

Left the team. Elliot Osborn and Scott Martin. Excellent team mates that saved the team on numerous occasions. Both missed by their squad and management team alike.

83

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 15 South

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 15 East

84

St Albans City Youth Under 15 West

A great season for U15 West, the boys have played some great football throughout but ended the campaign narrowly missing out on league and cup success with a 3rd place league finish and runners up in the league cup, better luck next year. I just want to take this opportunity to say a big thanks to Richard for refereeing for us and Nigel for running the line each week, and to all the parent for their support. Same again next season? Andy / Darren

BEN ATKIN- APPS. 22 - CLEAN SHEETS 6 - Goalkeeper – Ben has shown throughout the season what a great keeper he is, starting to control his defence well, over half way through the 5th game before anyone could score past him.

OLLIE WAKELING - APPS.23 -Defender – Once again another solid performance from Ollie on the left side of defence, usually came out on top against some quick and tricky wingers.

MATT NASH - APPS.23, GOALS 10 – Midfield. – Matt has moved around the midfield this season, but wherever he played his passes always open up the play and bring others into the game, scored a couple of good long range free kicks too.

TOM KEATING - APPS.22, GOALS 6 – Midfield – Tom has played a mixture of midfield and defensive roles this season, has great passing vision and always makes an impact wherever he plays.

KAI TAKAHASHI - APPS.23, GOALS 14 – midfield – Kai has caused our opponents problems all season, along the right wing with his pace and trickery, and scored some great goals along the way. Team top goal scorer

KWAME YOURI - APPS.20, GOALS 7 – Midfield – Played mainly on the left side of midfield this season where he has shown a great range of passes and good crossing ability, scored a couple of top draw goals too.

MATT SMALL - APPS. 22 - Defender- Matt has worked tirelessly all season from central defence, mixes the creativity of going forward with his defensive duties all at a fantastic pace.

ROSS ANDREWS - APPS. 22, GOALS 11– centre forward – Often played as the lone striker this season, he played with a real dogged determination and no such thing as a lost cause, proved again scoring from corners is no fluke.

HARRISON BEAN - APPS. 23, GOALS 6 – Midfield– Harrisons effort and work rate are second to none, he make an all-round contribution to the team from his defensive midfield role, sets a great example as team captain.

JOE PARKIN - APPS.22 – GOALS 2 – Midfield – Joe has worked tirelessly through the centre of midfield, confidence on the ball has grown through the season also shown great strength in his tackles.

NOAH-C-SMITH - APPS, 22 - Defender – Noah is a tough tackling centre back, who has dominated the opposition all season, taken a hit for the team on more than one occasion, resulting in concussion twice!!!

MAT TURNER - APPS, 19 - Defender-A real solid performance from Mat this season from his right back position, moves the ball along the side-line with real precision.

ZACH QUINN - APPS.20 - GOALS 3- Midfield – Zach has caused problems for much of our opposition with his long runs at speed, confidently and accurately plays the ball around the park.

CASEY AKAJIOYI - APPS.20 - GOALS 7- centre forward – A great first season with the team, Casey is a fast and strong centre forward, loves nothing more than run onto a perfectly timed though ball.

85

St Albans City Youth Under 15 Orient

Owen Carrick: Is delightful to coach and has always had a positive attitude within training and matches. He has contributed to some tremendous saves between the sticks this season.

Liam Studley: Great first season from Liam who has game shared with Owen in goal. Liam’s distribution has helped turn defence into attack throughout the season.

Borna Aghael: Has developed excellently this season both technically and tactically which his team mates have only benefited from.

Jake Devereux: Very professional and hardworking player whose attitude influences the other player’s in a positive manner during the game.

Oscar Durrant: If it wasn’t for a reoccurring injury this player wouldn’t be playing grassroots. He is the full package he is mentally strong, athletic and technically excellent! I look forward to seeing him playing injury free in the future.

Freddie Wilkinson: Every team needs a James Milner and Freddie is mine. He is extremely Versatile and has all the attributes to play in any position. One of the best things about Freddie is his willingness to do what’s best for the team and get his head down without kicking up a fuss.

Adam Sawyer: Has really grown in confidence as the season started to unfold and has progressed as a result. His new found confidence has seen him darting down the left wing and contributing to some eye catching attacks.

Karis Broomfield: Hasn’t managed to play as much as I would have liked due to other commitments but when he does he makes a massive contribution to the team. He has 360 vision I’ve not seen a midfielder at this age so aware as him when receiving the ball.

Luke Gymer: Is one of the most determined players on the pitch, his attention to detail is incredible I can give Luke any task and he will carry it out perfectly.

Dan Ashenhurst: The accuracy of Dan’s passing is amazing, he receives the ball in a tight area of space and manages to find the perfect pass to create an attack.

Harry Easterby: Is an extremely gifted footballer, he has improved his understanding of positions this year and discipline to carry out tasks that have been asked of him.

Lewis Howard: Only signed late January and was an inspiration to the team, Lewis has great determination and aggression which gave the other player’s around him confidence to have also.

Ibrahim Rahman: one of two players who played in every game but what Ibrahim has to be acknowledged for doing the most is the influence he has had on games in the attacking third. He has the creativity to make something happen out of nothing.

Lewis Chippington: Good or bad every top player has a fiery personality and this is Lewis all over. Lewis has developed some lovely technical skills this season which has resulted in him scoring several goals from midfield.

Michael Gabblah: Has the ability to make a group into a team when he is positive. Michael has all the attributes to be a top player and has developed his tactical understanding this season.

Lewis McCall: Has played a vital contribution to the teams improved form this season, Lewis has all the intelligence to one day go onto being a coach of more. His technical ability and understanding of the team is amazing.

Finbar King: I am so pleased for Finbar this season he has found himself again on the football pitch. Last season was a frustrating one for him as we didn’t create many chances but this season has been a different story. Fin has managed 10 goals in 12 games only imagine the number he would have scored if he wasn’t injured at the start.

Babu Rahman/Gary Hedge: Massive thanks to these guys from all the parents and players for running the admin side of the team.

Paul Wilkinson/Tom Davison: Have been a joy to coach with. We have managed to bounce ideas off of each other all season and plan training sessions to the needs of the players. So from myself and the players a massive thank you.

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St Albans City Youth FC – Under 15 West

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 15 Orient

87

St Albans City Youth Under 16 Girls North

Manager: - Sarah Kropman, Assistant Coach: - Greg Gosling

St Albans City Youth F.C Girls U16 North were first formed in 2009, representing St Albans in the Herts Youth Games and playing their first full season in the HGFPL at U10 in 2009/10. Since then, we have enjoyed good success as League Cup winners in 2010, County Cup finalists in 2013 and 2014, and winners of the League Shield in 2015. Whilst sadly not claiming any silverware this campaign, the girls can be pleased with their promoted season in Division 1, where they have produced some fine performances. I have been fortunate to manage the girls from the start and am, as always, immensely proud of each and every one of them. Many of them have now started coaching and/or refereeing as great role-models and ambassadors for the club. I would like to wish all of my squad the best of luck for their GCSEs and hope they have a wonderful summer!

I would also like to thank all of the parents and family members that have supported the team throughout the season. In particular, thank you to Kevin Schofield for running the line most Saturdays; to Claire Schofield and Pam Smith for being regular match day delegates and to Jonathan Poole and his company, MSIG, for sponsoring us. As always, however, my greatest thank you goes to Greg Gosling for coaching the girls so brilliantly and for all his time, support and advice throughout the season.

Sarah

Louisa Ellis (midfield) – A fine reader of the game and a really strong midfielder who is also happy to fill in as a defender. Louisa’s ability to bring others into the game has been admirable this season.

Natasha Ellingham (striker) – A skilful player who strikes the ball with great power and pace. Made some exciting midfield appearances late in the season too.

Ellen Fox (goalkeeper) – Ellen remains one of the top shot-stoppers, with many breath-taking saves this season against tough opposition. One of the best communicators in the team!

Melissa Godino (defence) – A fantastic defender who is composed on the ball and always looking to build an attack. Mel is always committed and well-timed in the challenge.

Nicola Gosling (midfield) – Nicola is one of the most experienced squad members, demonstrating great football intelligence, commitment and a killer pass!

Maxine Hotz (striker) – A superb late season signing, Maxine has impressed us greatly in her first appearances for the team, showing excellent passion, effort and goal-scoring ability!

Romy Kelleher (defence) – A pacey, determined player who has sadly not been available for many games due to her acting commitments. We wish her well as she leaves football at the end of the season.

Mary Leach (Captain, defence) – Mary is a fantastic captain and role-model. She plays with confidence, skill and discipline and is committed both at training and on match days. Deserved Managers’ Player of the Season.

Abbi Minot (defence) – A true defender, Abbi is strong, passionate and has shown impressive improvement throughout her second season with the squad.

Isabelle Poole (defence) – Izzy is a true delight to watch play football, working tirelessly and linking brilliantly with her team-mates. Congratulations on being Players’ Player of the Season!

Emily Schofield (striker/midfield) – A remarkable player, Emily catches the eye of all spectators (and opposition defenders as she runs past them!). Emily has worked hard in midfield this season too, helping defend as well as attack.

Shauna Smith (midfield) – Technically brilliant, Shauna has delivered some super performances on the wing this season. We are very proud of her gaining an EDSV place at college!

Zoe Thomas (striker) – Zoe joined us for the shield final last May and has been a key member of the team ever since. Her pace, strength and composure in front of goal are brilliant attributes!

Danielle Tyler (striker, midfield, defence) – Dani has had yet another great season, playing in almost every position for the sake of the team. Congratulations on your Golden Boot award!

I would finally like to mention Alice Tello, one of our most talented and committed players, who has sadly missed all games this season due to an ACL injury picked up in our shield final last May. We wish her a speedy recovery from her upcoming surgery and can’t wait to welcome her back to the squad.

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St Albans City Youth Under 16 Girls South

Abbie Smith - Steadfast both in defence and attack and has a thunderous shot, as displayed against Garston. What an asset to the team, playing in every match, and joint second goal scorer. Despite an injury, Abbie scored a hat trick against Bedford Phoenix. 23 appearances, 7 Goals.

Abby Durrant - Great Performances keeps going even when the going gets tough, her belief and commitment never waivers. Joint second goal scorer. 22 appearances, 7 Goals.

Aimee Smith - A passionate player, whose presence has been missed through injury for part of the season. This was her last season for us and we wish her all the best. 16 appearances, 4 Goals.

Bethany Moss - First full season with STACY. Has made the Centre Forward position her own. Incredibly tenacious, even after being knocked unconscious by a rogue ball against Garston! Bethany will be going to Hatfield Ladies next season and we wish her all the best. 22 appearances, 5 Goals.

Eliza Brown - Has had a good season and is most comfortable on the ball with great distribution. Scored a goal this season and we are looking forward to more next Season. 19 appearances, 1 Goal.

Ellie Jenkins, Captain of the Team - Her fortitude and drive has continued this season and was given the Captains armband as reward for her great attitude, passion and 100% commitment, has become one of the most valuable players in the team. Scored a hat trick against Bedford in the Cup. 21 appearances, 6 Goals.

Elysia Ramsdale - Great first season, with some well-timed goals and lots of determination. 20 appearances, 4 goals.

Francesca Ralfe - Quite the silent assassin in the team and has been excellent in both attitude and effort. Completed her 100th Cap for the club this season. 20 appearances, 2 goals

Isabella Tagg - Has shown her true capability this season with some well-judged saves. 22 appearances

Kate Chamberlain - Kate has been one of the star performers this season in right back. Never afraid of the tackle and will go after the ball even when it looks like a lost cause. A real warrior. 20 appearances

Lauryn Edwell - Plays in defence with capability and conviction. She reads the game effectively. Executed a striking goal during the last match of the season. 20 appearances, 1 Goal.

Lucy Abbott - She is always 100% committed, has really grown in confidence this season and always plays with a smile on her face. Has continued to play despite recurrent injury. 22 appearances.

Nia Williams - She has become a real asset to the team. Has finally started to believe in her ability and some of her excellent performances have shown just how good she can be. Completed her 100th Cap for the club this season. 18 appearances

Rosie McGahan - What a season from our very own wing wizard. Possesses real speed and an eye for goal along with some exceptional ball skills. Our top goal scorer, securing a hat trick against Bedford in the cup. Played in every match and completed her 100th Cap for the club. 23 appearances, 10 Goals.

Robin Durrant – Manager of the Team - Shouts encouragement with a unique passion but the girls always take it on the chin. He is proud of the season the girls have had. A manager affectionately respected by every player and now in his 7th season with our team. Robin really appreciates the assistance from Emma and Joe this season with training for the girls.

Thank you to Simon and Nick for taking over the manager role for the last two games of the season in Rob’s absence and thanks to Steve for always volunteering to run the line.

89

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 16 Girls South

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 16 Girls North

90

St Albans City Youth Under 16 North

We have had a brilliant season completing the league and cup double, John and Sean are now moving on for personal reasons, leaving the squad in good shape. Good luck lads

Fergus Mann- first season for the keeper, very good player, makes my blood pressure rise when he decides to be Ronaldo and dribbles out of his area, Fergus has fitted in nicely

Ilias Bakhti- Ilias is the most reliable player I have coached, he will never let you down and is always consistent, another excellent season.

Youness Bakhti- Youness has had a very good season, he is a talented midfield player and played in goal mid-season due to injuries to Fergus, superb attitude.

Cian Sweeney- Cians first season with us, he is a top player and is a very popular member of the squad, voted managers player, which with our talent is no mean feat, made the county rep side.

Will Sharp- on his day Will is arguably one of the best footballers we have coached, great athlete and skilful player, sticks out a mile with his wash and go flowing locks, made the county rep side.

Alfie Booth- captain of the squad, Alfie is our top goal scorer, he is a strong skilful player who can play in midfield or up front, can be very vocal, especially if he wants a rest.

Dan Newton- Dan is a quick, brave and competent player, he was voted managers player, made the county rep side, and he had a very good season, gets better every year

Euan McDonald- Euan has had a fine season; he is a great football player and is the best set piece player I know, never lets any one down

Chris Hubbard- Chris is a brilliant football player, when he hasn’t a care in the world he is one of the first on the team sheet, Chris is respected by everyone.

Curtis Finch- Curtis is a good player, he doesn’t play as much as he would of liked, he is a very quiet lad, Sean and I have a lot of time for Curtis

Hugh Gaffney- Hugh is a class player, our holding midfielder who saved his best for the cup final, very consistent and a very popular member of the squad

Max Sahota- Max is a very good footballer whose season was ended early by injury, Max will always give 100%

James McCallum- James did not play most of the season as he has been playing rugby to a very good standard, he will never let you down and is a popular lad

Liam Murphy- Mr reliable, Liam also has had a very good season, his work rate is excellent, he keeps fit by boxing for St. Albans

Sean Ahearn Smith- Sean is a fearless football player who gives his all, Sean will never let you down, he is a very popular member of the squad

Owen Greenbank- Owen is a very gifted footballer, he never gives less than 100%, can play in a variety of positions, skilful lad who has scored some important goals

Jack Skinner- A very skilful technical footballer, Jack has missed a fair chunk of the season as he has been at the Luton academy

Gianpaolo Manzi- Gianp has been another new edition to the squad, a good technical footballer, Gianp has scored some crucial goals this season

91

St Albans City Youth Under 16 South

At the beginning of the season this squad was formed from the merger of the South and West teams. All players were invited to join which saw us with a squad of 19 players at the start of the season. By the time the season had finished due to injuries and players leaving we had 16 available players. We entered the West Herts League in U16 Division 1 with some great results. I’ve enjoyed this season because; with the mix of players we now have a better squad, playing a good standard of football. The addition of Alex to the squad to accompany Ben up top, coupled with Omar we have become a much more attacking team that on our day can compete with the best in the WHL. The season high point was knocking out Herons Black in the cup at their ground. The low point has to be, bad injuries to Rich Ashu our goalie breaking his arm in the 2nd game of the season and McKenzie Killick with a dislocated knee in January. Thanks to U16 East team and Jack Stern for being our goalie on loan whilst Rich was out.

Thanks to: Greg Gosling for taking the team on match days & training the boys on a Friday evening. Dave Ross for being a stand in ref when required, and running the line. Mark Hall & Steve Walsh for running the line. Sy Ashu for taking the boys for some training sessions and Jeremy Pearlman…for 3- 5-2

Jack Armstrong – 21 Appearances, Defender/Midfield, Jack has adapted well to the changes in the team this year and his speed means he can play a wide role and get up the pitch. Very loyal and dependable

Rich Ashu – 17 Appearances. Goalkeeper, unbelievably this is Rich’s first season as a goalie, although his height and reach makes him a natural. Suffered a bad break to his arm in only the 2nd game of the season, but made a comeback only 2 months later. A great shop stopper with a notable penalty save against Hemel Hempstead White

Omar Bounyafe – 24 Appearances & 15 Goals, Striker/Midfield, Omar had a prolific start to the season, scoring 12 goals before Xmas, including 4 against SACY East and a brace in that great cup win against Herons Black. His game has really stepped up this season, which has raised the interest of several scouts. At times he’s unplayable and other teams have resulted to taking him out. Only missed 1 game this season

Connor Casey – 21 Appearances, Defender, another great season, I think I write the same statement about Connor every year and that’s because it’s true! Always dependable as the last line of defence.

Matty Gallagher – 22 Appearances & 5 Goals, Midfield, Matty has stepped up his play to compete in the higher division this season, very good at winning the midfield battles and driving the team forward and has picked up a few goals, that includes a hat trick against SACY East and also scored with his head against Everett.

Ben Gosling – 25 Appearances & 16 Goals, Striker, Guess what! More goals for Ben this year. Including a hat-trick against SACY East and 3 braces against Bushey & Oxhey, Bovingdon & Aston. In fact his 3 goals in the Aston Double Header secured the max 6 points. Very loyal & has played in every game this season

Charlie Hall – 21 Appearances. Defender, Charlie has impressed with every game as the season has progressed. He appears to have grown a couple of inches which would have helped. Always dependable

Tom Kerr – 17 Appearances. Midfield, another player who has impressed this season, Tom always puts in a shift and works hard for the team playing out on the right. A good link player.

Mackenzie Killick – 13 Appearances, Midfield/Defender, Mackenzie suffered a horrible injury in January with a dislocated knee, which cut his season short. Thankfully he’s made a good recovery and we’d like to see him again next season. He’s very popular with the team, due to his character and no nonsense style of play.

Ronan Marie Moutou – 25 Appearances & 5 Goals, Midfield/Defender, Ronan has cemented his position in defence alongside Connor. His physical presence and mobility makes him a hard player to pass. He’s also managed to score goals including a brace against SACY East. He has played in every game this season

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St Albans City Youth Under 16 South - Continued

Harry Ross – 23 Appearances & 1 Goal. Midfield/Striker/Defender, Harry is one of the unsung heroes of this team, will play wherever asked, has played in all but 2 games and always at training. Very loyal and dependable. His goal came way back in November against Bovingdon and was the innocent person throttled by our opponent in the battle of Greenwood Park.

Brad Slocombe – 15 Appearances. Defender/Midfield, Brad has a good turn of speed which coupled with his height makes him a good attribute for the team. Has played mainly in Midfield or as a Wing Back, but also filled in as a Centre Back when required

Sam Smith – 18 Appearances, Midfield/Defender, Sam is a great player who can play in most positions, unfortunately he’s been injured which has meant he’s missed a few games this season. A good communicator who gets the team fired up.

Alex Stanimrov – 12 Appearances & 5 Goals. Striker, A new signing in December he quickly made his place into the team as a striker. Alex covers a lot of ground and works well with our attackers. Picked up 2 braces against Harpenden Pirates and Hemel Hempstead White.

Jack Stern – 8 Appearances. Goalkeeper, Jack came to us on loan as goalie whilst Rich was out, and became an immediate hit in his first game by saving a penalty against Herons Orange in the battle of Greenwood Park. He fit in well with the rest of the team and made some great saves in his time with us.

JARED WALSH – 23 Appearances & 5 Goals. Midfield, another good season for Jared as he’s occupied the central midfield position very well. His drive and passion means he leads by example and has resulted in 5 goals including a brace against Aston. Has only missed 2 games this season.

Khalid Uddin – 24 Appearances & 3 Goals, Defender/Midfield, Great player, very fast with the ball stuck to his feet. He keeps the ball well and runs at the opposition. Notable goals against the 2 best teams; Herons Black & Harpenden Pirates. Has only missed 1 game this season.

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 16 South

93

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 16 North

St Albans City Youth FC – Under 16 East WFL

94

St Albans City Youth Under 16 East WFL

East lads have had a great season finishing runners up in the league and getting promoted for the second season running and also getting to a semi-final well done lads been a pleasure this season! Stuart Fennel

Jack Stern - Jack has improved immensely over the season, his shot stopping and kicking distribution are his biggest assets, well mate great season!

Ryan Osborn - Ryan has had a great 1st season his attitude and will to win are there for all to see had a heart of a lion and add so much to the team, great 1st season mate!

Gio Basile - Ferret is a key part to the team, can play anywhere and does so with ease, has bags of tricks, energy, and never say die attitude, Making him a real threat to any defence

Ollie Barnett - Ollie is a great reader of the game, and can play anywhere along the back line, and has also come up with some important goals as well. Well done mate great season!!

Alex Stevens - Alex has had a great season, his technical side of the game is excellent add to his ability to read the game he makes a real baller! Great season mate well done!!

Billy Creswell - Billy has been a rock at the back for the team, his towering presence and never wanting to be beat attitude is a nightmare for defenders. Well done mate great season!!

Will Daly - Will has been colossus at the back for the team this season, he puts his body on the line and loves to tackle, another great season from will well done mate!!

Joe Vance - What can I say about this lad, it's like having Messi, Ronaldo and a bite of Iniesta in one player. A great season joe well done mate!

Ollie Pawlaczek - Ollie has had a solid season again, his engine just never stops added to his desire to win and tricks he's a menace to play against. Great season mate!

Ewan Brand - Ewan has had his best goal scoring season to date, has great ability to score just when the team needs a goal! Great season mate well done!

Dominic Wilkinson - Dom has got great technical ability and a magic 1st touch, great 1st season Dom well done mate!!

Luke Gibbins - Luke has great energy and technical ability and has a very competitive attitude, he's had to play left back this season and I thank him for that as I know he does it for the team another great season mate well done!!

Harvey Trounson - Harv has a great engine that never stops, his energy and box to box running is an asset to the team another great season Harv well done mate!

Tayler Fennel - Tay is the heart beat of the team his range of passing is excellent and his work rate is second to none, leads by example and put his all in to every game. Great season mate well done!!

Tom Levy - Tom has an eye for a pass and the ability to pull it off, great technically and has a descent left foot! Tom is also going EJA side next season good luck mate well done for a great season!!

Ned Robinson - Ned is a great lad to have In the team, his physical presence and ability to pick and play a pass are there off all to see, probably the best I’ve seen. Great season mate well done!!

Joe Stockwell - Joe is our very own fox in the box, has great ability to find space in the box, works hard off the ball, a real team player! Great 1st season with us mate well done!!!

Cain Joseph - Cain has he another great season, not his best for scoring but he's created so many chance for the team, his pace and strength scare any defender a must starter in any 11 well done mate!!

95

St Albans City Youth Under 16 East WHYL

This was a new team for the club, formed after a group of school friends approached parents to set-up a team so they could all play for together. What was unique was the combination of friends, some who had been playing for STACY and some for other clubs and some who had never played club football before and we still had to find additional players to complete the squad. Needless to say it was a tough first half of the season as we came up against teams who had played together for many years, as we progressed into early 2016, the team really started playing well together and toward the latter end of the season we finally started winning & great that most want to continue to U18 next season! Community football at it’s best…

Ashley Ojuederie: Our keeper, first season playing club football and as a keeper (at U16!!!).. fantastic performances to keep the score in check – keep us in the game…and a big guy that intimidated opponents..thanks Ashley!

Sam Abington : Great work rate and speed when on the ball, very fast and made it difficult for most opponents to outpace him. Coupled with his natural striker abilities, he was a real threat to opponents in every game.

William Alderton: Broke his foot at the start of the season (Rugby!!) and finally recovered earlier this year to show us what we missed – great determination and skill that was really valuable to our midfield – we missed you first half.

Joshua Dew: Another first timer to club football. An acomplished martial arts exponent (been to Japan to compete) which was evident in his focus, stamina & determination giving “minimum” 100% every game as he loves football. A really fantastic first season for Josh….

Thomas Johnson: A solid and flexible player comfortable in midfield and attack and on occasions when we were short players Tom stood up to play defence. Great awareness

Callum Keane: Yet another first timer to club football, a swimmer who trains 5 times a week and that level of fitness was evident as his work rate running the pitch was huge. One minute on in our box, next the opponents & back..speedy.

Eoin Kellett: It was Eoin who asked to set-up the team…thanks Eoin for all that hard work you gave us, but every bit was enjoyable…he really grew into his full back position making it his….huge commitment and determination in every game, often referred to as the wall.

Charlie Reading: Another committed defender who made it difficult for opposition...often made the right wing his own with his ability to take the ball from defence up to attack with his speed and agility. Also referred to a cheeky Charlie, can be the clown of the group while maintaining focus on the task at hand….

Jamie Smith: Great season for Jamie, solid & skilful midfield/winger often attacking the opposition goal or creating good ball into our forwards….

Ahmed Aziz: Another first timer to club football. Ahmed was fast, which caught opponents off guard creating frustration fort them and opportunities for Ahmed to spread the ball either side to our attackers. Really good first season for Ahmed.

Michael Coffey: A great performance in midfield/up front all through the season, real skill and spatial awareness coupled with a hugh work rate for the team. Michael leaves us for semi-pro football next season and we which him every success.

Conor Jungnickel: Reliable defensive force but what made his exceptional was his ability to pull off fantastic goal from behind the halfway line into the top corner…wish we had this on camera…you only see these on TV.

Joseph Rock: Jo often had to play the lone attacker role as we found our way as a team playing more experienced teams. When the team got the ball to Jo he was quick to position himself for a shot on goal or quickly hand off to another of the team with a better shot...

Luke O’Malley: Our Captain, lead by example this season showing real commitment/high work rate in midfield feeding the attack and always ready to support defence when needed…consistent performer throughout the season.

96

St Albans City Youth Under 16 East WHYL

St Albans City Youth Under 16 Central

97

St Albans City Youth Under 16 Central

We had a Good season after trying to rebuild the team again due to losing 7 players before the season started and then another 4 during the season but the boys that did play stood up and played amazing during the course of the season. I was so proud of them and not finishing bottom of the league was a bonus in a tough league this season.

Liam Hallam going to centre back and doing amazing, James wood also improved as the season went on, Luke T filled in at RB In some matches and played well and Lloyd D done well at Lb, Jake H played in Goal after JP departed during the season and for him to play amazing at the age of 14 just shows you if you have the right attitude age is just a number. Josh P also played better this season in different positions when called upon. Alex B and Jacob P were outstanding during the course of the season putting in challenges and covering every blade of grass and playing good football. Ollie B had another steady season in so many midfields and attacking positions, J Holdsworth joined during the season and was superb great attitude full of running and can play too. Jack C came in to the team and was a breath of fresh air. Very talented Boy with an eye to goal as well as a good pass, Steven work rate was up there again never gives up attitude and also scored well again this season. Watching Harrison G play his best football this season stronger and fitter and also scoring goals including a smashing 30-yard free kick last minute winner against St Albans East. Tyrell F and Jaymah P only played 3 games all season as well as D Combrie who played only two games and left due to not being able to get to matches, which was a shame as they would of made as a better team.

Top scorers: Harrison Gates 8, Steven Gee 8, Jack Cummings 8

I just like to say it’s been a privilege and an honour to manager St Albans Boreal /Central from U13, U14, U15, and U16. I have managed a great bunch of boys over the last 4 years and I like to thank the boys below and wish them all the best for the Future.

A. Purkiss, A.Marandos, A.Gates, A.Brace, C.Ferguson, D.Combrie, E.kellett, H.Torres, H.Gates, H.Vincent, H.Sharma, J.Cummings, J.Shreeves, J.Paton, J.Pencley, J.Elliot, J.Holdsworth, J.Wood, J.Jones, J.Pate, J.Rock , J.Pile, L.Palmer, L.Hallam, L.Hill, L.Debenham, L.Terry, M.Purkis, M.Gillespie, M.Dalziel, O.Brett, R.Grant, S.Abington, S.Boucher, S.Gee, T.Johnson T.Foster, W.Alderton

Also like to thank Andy Brett who helped me for 3 seasons as my coach, Great help and Support for me and the boys

98

St Albans City Youth Under 16 Orient

An ‘up & down’ season saw Orient finish 3rd in Division 2 of the West Herts Youth League U16. The best performances were saved for the end of the season seeing Orient beat the runners up and draw with the champions. A more consistent level of performances against the teams lower down the league would have made the end of the season far more interesting as to which team won the league.

There was a great team spirit throughout the season and it has been a pleasure to be involved with the squad since they started together as U12’s. Seven members of the original squad still play in the current squad.

Two members of the squad were missing from the team photo due to injury and they have been missed. Zach Litenstone, a serious knee injury and Tom Green, a broken arm.

Now we need to look forward to next season competing in the U17/18 league which will give us some challenges which I am sure that the boys will overcome together.

A special thanks goes to Paul Lambert who is stepping down as coach after 5 years.

Richard Ransley, Manager.

Harry Wilding Harrison Bell Eric Kieffer Adam Ransley Tom Barratt Sam Winter William Ibbotson Adam Purkis Reece Bilsby Josh Ali Bill Llewellyn-Jones Nayeem Ahmed Ben Rose Jack Curran Ashley Price Tom Green Zach Litenstone

St Albans City Youth Under 16 Orient

99

St Albans City Youth Under 17 West

In terms of results, a mixed season, dominated at the beginning with player recruitment. Once we had an established and settled team, they became competitive, showing their true potential in the last match of the season (the 7-1 league win and not the beating they got in the lads v parents end of season match!). A nice team and a nice bunch of blokes, which I am proud to be associated with. They are a lot better than they think they are!

Huge thanks to Nigel for his support, Adrian for organising the referees, Richard & Paul for lino duties.

Alfie Seeby (Striker): Returned to the team after over a season in the wilderness. Words I thought I would never say ’Alfie I have your earrings’ and never hear back ‘I have in my mums earrings to stop the piercing closing up’. Appearances: 2015/16: 10 (running total 211). Competitive goals this season: 15

Billy Kavalieros (Goalie): Provides a steady stream of interesting commentary during the game and is the team’s vice captain. Quality keeper. Appearances: 2015/16: 12 (running total 37). Competitive goals this season: 0

Ben Pattison (Midfield): Did an Alfie and went missing before returning with his boundless energy. Disappointingly failed to score an OG this season. Appearances: 2015/16: 14 (running total 239). Competitive goals this season: 2

Ben Yates (Defender): Not a toe punt in sight, very solid at the back. Has learnt to take a coat to the Zoo! Appearances: 2015/16: 26 (running total 199). Competitive goals this season: 0

Billy Lawrence (Striker): Hopeless second touch, so scores with his first. Off side lessons are available for him. Appearances: 2015/16: 20 (running total 82). Competitive goals this season: 21

Callum Jackson (Defender): Or should I say Dennie Williams! Provides the pace and heading ability at the back. We wish him all the best with whatever he decides to do next season. Appearances: 2015/16: 16 (running total 37). Competitive goals this season: 1

Charlie Lunnis (Midfield): Outstanding season. Boundless energy. Proper team player. Appearances: 2015/16: 25 (running total 210). Competitive goals this season: 7

Chris Spratling (Midfield): Joined at the start of the season and quickly settled in. Hopeless left foot. Appearances: 2015/16: 24 (running total 24). Competitive goals this season: 8

Gabe Kennedy (Defender): Joined mid-season. He just makes me laugh, no idea why just does. Has made left back his own. Appearances: 2015/16: 11 (running total 11). Competitive goals this season: 0

Harry Deacon (Midfield): Still can’t run, or to be fair jog. Has a 30 minute purple patch, not bad for 30 minutes, not sure what he does for the other 30 minutes. Again most assists. Needs 27 appearances next season to equal his brother’s record of most appearances for the club...think big brother will be paying him a visit after his 26th match! Appearances: 2015/16: 25 (running total 258). Competitive goals this season: 7

Harry Hawkes (Defender): Moved to right full back and has had a terrific season. Needs to learn not to choose to be sick pitch side when his mum comes. Appearances: 2015/16: 26 (running total 256). Competitive goals this season: 4

Jake Beels (Defender): Did he pass his driving test! Can play in any position but has a hopeless shot. Appearances: 2015/16: 26 (running total 237). Competitive goals this season: 2

Joe Galliford (Midfield): Team captain and leads by example. Seems to think boot dis- integration would not be a problem and that the adults would magically have gaffer tape with them. Appearances: 2015/16: 21 (running total 115). Competitive goals this season: 1

Oscar Finnie (Striker): Joined at the start of season. Always has a sun tan! Deceptively good player. Appearances: 2015/16: 17 (running total 17). Competitive goals this season: 4

Robbie Impleton (Midfield): Another who joined mid-season and has become increasingly influential. Strongest in a challenge and the teams penalty taker…we just don’t get any, unless you count the one Alfie missed. Appearances: 2015/16: 12 (running total 12). Competitive goals this season: 0

Sebastian Camp (Striker): How has he scored 6! Must be from 60 chances. Seriously pacey and tracks back. Appearances: 2015/16: 24 (running total 130). Competitive goals this season: 6

100

St Albans City Youth Under 17 West

101

St Albans City Youth Under 18 East

Billy Rintoul -Billy's season was defined by a nasty leg break when it should've been remembered for some very cool performances.

Chris Salmons - Ever-present, with capable performances in almost every position.

Conor Moore - great energy and effort.

David Andrews - Moved from midfield into defence with great effect.

Ed Hollis - Solid and reliable rock in the defence.

Harry Henderson - Great shot. Great through balls.

Issy Doyle - Stand in goalkeeper who stood in to great effect. Amazing reflex saves.

Joe Mathews - Versatile and dependable. Can play in any position and always has a good game.

Louis Andrew - Impressive midfield performances.

Luke Winks - Quietly puts in great effort.

Max Mumford - Captain, leading by example.

Nathan Wooster - Awesome when available.

Sam Bottomley - Superb defensive midfield performances.

Toby Weidmann - Tenacious, with unquestionable effort and energy.

Tom Williamson - Battled through injuries put in impressive performances.

St Albans City Youth Under 18 East

102

St Albans City Youth Under 18’s West*

Ollie Shepherd Taylor Finnigan Keanu Floyd Lewis Cutmore Yaku Stapleton Sam Cornmell Sam Reynolds Ellis Allan Max Bull Josh Bean Alfie Hopkinson-Badgery Sam Waters Rathjen Sam Ivory Matt Armstrong James Merritt Paulo Ditri. Matt Hubbard

*Please note this is last year’s team list

103

St Albans City Youth Under 18s Orient

League: P28, W10, D2, L16 - Goals F60, A86, GD -25. Cup: P3, W0, L3 - Goals F0, A7. A difficult season for the lads after the success of the previous season. Under 18 football came as a bit of a shock to the lads. However, they played some superb football against strong opposition and never gave up the chase in any of their matches. With some new players and a new goalkeeper, the lessons learnt this season provide a great platform for the 2016/17 season. Many thanks go to Glyn for all his advice and assistance, to all the dads who ran the line and all the parents who turned up in all weathers to support the lads. A sad farewell to Jake, Matthew and Freddie - thanks for all your efforts over the years. Also thanks to the lads who didn’t quite finish the season with us for one reason or another - Barney (Apps 15, Goals 3), Shiloh (Apps 12, Goals 3) and Isaac (Apps 6, Goals 1). As for the rest of the lads, here’s to the next challenge of playing our final season together. A league or cup victory is the challenge! Manager: Ian Hughes, Assistant Coach: Glyn Davison.

Freddie Bennett, Goalkeeper, Apps. 24 - This was Freddie’s final season with Orient. Lots of ups and downs. Thanks again for all your commitment over the seasons and especially for stepping into the role when we were desperate for a keeper.

Tom Nicholson, Left Wingback, Apps. 22, Goals 5 - Contender for player of the season (again). Mr consistent, always gives us his all. solid as a left back but loves getting down the wing and into forward positions. Good to see him getting back on the score sheet again this season.

Harry ‘Westy’ Reeves, Defender/Winger, Apps. 25, Goals 1 - A solid season for him. his ability has meant he has played not just in defence but often on the wing. His strength is his sense of calmness that he brings to the back line. Solid as a central defender.

Zac Moore, Centre Midfield, Apps. 25, Goals 5 - This is his 9th season with Orient and yet again he’s a contender for player of the season. Mr reliable, he always gives us 100%. Great in the tackle and uses his strength to push forward. When he strikes a ball it certainly moves.

Rory Sheed Davison, Centre Midfield, Apps. 14, Goals 0 - Unfortunately injured at the beginning of the season but he has worked hard to adapt to his midfield sweeper role. He makes the through ball look so easy and is a master free kick specialist.

Ben Thomas Bolton (Captain), Central Defender, Apps 26, Goals 0 - Takes charge at the back with confidence which has helped him prove to be a fantastic captain this season. Strong in the tackle and a great reader of the ball he has intercepted many shots on our goal.

Stephen Heather, Defence/Midfield, Apps. 25, Goals 3 - - What a season. Hasn’t missed a game even with broken fingers! Stephen was fantastic in defence but moved up to form a developing partnership in midfield with Zac. Fantastic tackler. He doesn’t let much get past him.

Shaun Knighton, Centre Mid and Winger, Apps. 23, Goals 2 - Shaun’s work rate and effort is top draw. He has fought hard to impress and secure his place in the starting line-up. He’s one of the most passionate players we have and is developing into a good winger able to play on the left or right.

Jake Mlodecki, Winger, Apps 22, Goals 3 - Great right side winger. Fast and knocks the ball into the box. Gets the odd vital goal that can win us a game. Sadly, his last season with us.

Alfie Folan, Midfield/Winger, Apps 23, Goals 2 - His first season with us has seen Alfie develop his outfield skills playing in midfield and especially on the wing. Some great performances and great forward passing into space. If he sorts out his stamina he’ll be awesome.

Jude Akajioyi, Central Midfielder, Apps13, Goals 0 - New to the team all was going well preseason then injury hit just before the first game. Regaining his fitness has meant it has taken Jude some time to break into the team. However, the central midfield role has become a key role for him.

Matthew Pollard, Wingback/Defender, Apps 22, Goals 0 - His final season with us. He will be missed. Mr unflappable. He always puts a shift in, is a great free kick specialist and has even had the chance of playing up front on a few occasions this season

Owen Ladbrook, Winger or Striker, Apps 25, Goals 10 - Has created a great partnership with Oscar up front for most of the season. Needs to put the ball in the back of the net more often but due to his great skill on the ball creates many goal scoring opportunities for himself. Has to watch the offside trap next season! Has scored ten great goals this season.

Oscar Rutherford Hughes, Centre Forward, Apps 25, Goals 17 - Back to his scoring ways but like Owen should have scored more! Never gives up and harasses opposition defences and midfielders for pleasure. Must cover more distance on the pitch than any other player. Another contender for player of the season.

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St Albans City Youth Under 18 Orient

St Albans City Youth Under 18 Warriors

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St Albans City Youth Under 18 Warriors

A magnificent season and a fitting way to end 12 seasons of Warriors.

WFL League & Cup Double Winners (with an “Invincible” league record (15 wins and 1 draw)) plus George Walker Winners.

The Warriors Ethos has always been about team work, dedication, self-development & fun, all wrapped within high quality coaching– it has never been about ceding players or trying to create an “elite” team.

This Ethos has meant that because many of the players have played for Warriors for many years they have gained significant experience of this approach. The success of this season is entirely due to the dedication and commitment of each and every player. The players have used their years of experience (which over recent seasons have been tough and where many teams would’ve given up) to pull together and play/train as a squad all pulling for and supporting each other.

It has been my privilege to be part of Warriors. Whatever each of the players in the squad do in the future they will always have the experience of Warriors to help them to integrate into new environments & experiences. Who knows, even one day, manage their own junior teams.

I wish all Warriors (and SACY members) happiness and good health.

(I make no apology for using old fashioned (non-Fifa PlayStation) playing positions or references to players of yester year – it has been a test for them all season!)

Keith Glasscoe

Manish Das - Goalkeeper: The Gordon Banks of Warriors. Countless times Manish pulled off great saves to keep us in the game. Manish has developed tremendously over the seasons and has become a confident “sweeper keeper” commanding the defence and without doubt leaving his finest performance to the League Cup Final, one to remember…. although he needed new gloves weeks ago!

Eddie Amato - Centre Half: A welcome return back to Warriors this season. Eddie’s thumping dead ball kicking is (and has always been) way beyond his years. This season his aerial presence and great positional sense meant Eddie was the rock at the heart of a great defence this season. A modern day . 4 Goals

Theo Maher - Centre Half: A long standing Warrior. Theo has successfully played in all manner of positions over the years, but this season he has used all this experience to dominate games at Centre Half. Theo reads & deals with attacking play with great strength and perception. As importantly he always encourages others and I shall miss the “C’mon Warriors” shout from Theo, (which over the seasons has got deeper).

Ben Smalley - Full Back/ Centre Half: Outstanding defensive player who combines strength & perception with quick feet and a great attitude. Latterly commanded the right back position with a superb combination of tackling and attack play, with his season culminating in a towering Mark Hatley type header to score his first ever Warrior goal… in the Cup Final.

Ben Hicks - Full Back/ Centre Half/Goalkeeper: An unfortunate training ground injury side-lined Ben for many weeks. That said, pre and post injury his contributions in defence have been superb. He uses his great skill of reading the game and combines this with spending most of his game-time slide tackling the opposition into submission. It has also been key that we actually have 2 excellent keepers in the squad.

Laurence Wilson - Wing Back/Left Wing Half: A free flowing player who can effortless go past players. An invaluable “left footer” and great squad player who has accepted playing out of his preferred position for the sake of the team more often than he would’ve liked. Laurence is a qualified FA coach and is already bringing on the next generation of SACY. 3 goals.

Ed Anders - Midfield/Inside Forward: One of the longest serving Warriors and astute tactician – often volunteering Jimmy Hill like observations to the manager: Taller than Alan Ball, Ed is equally blessed with the ability to run forever coupled with being an astute passer of the ball – he is more than a handful for any opposition. Occasionally deployed to man-mark, there is no player that can escape Ed’s shadow and robust tackling. Scored 6 crucial goals, including 2 to help make the Invincible record, from 1-0 down with 10 to go!!

Jamal Baig - Left Full Back. A calming influence in the heart of the pressure of defence. Just like the 1966 Ray Wilson, Jamal quietly but effectively gets on with defending the left flank without any fuss or trouble. His silky touches and eye for a killer pass on to the forwards has opened up many chances this season.

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St Albans City Youth Under 18 Warriors - Continued

Billy Barrett - Defence/Centre Half Back: A long standing Warrior and versatile squad player. His natural speed helps to either set up attacks or to sure up defences and is often deployed at difficult times of games to do exactly that. A great squad player with attitude to match. His training ground skills are a delight and makes training much more fun on those freezing cold evenings – his “Rabonna” is always a joy! 1 (memorable) goal.

Tom Blight - Midfield/ Half Back: Tom finally saw the light and signed from Harvesters for his final junior season. The most elegant of midfield players and just like his incredible work rate belies the fact that he seems to just glide across the pitch breaking up play, using quick feet and subtle passing to take Warriors forward. A classy 6 goal contribution too.

Will Spencer - Midfield/ Half Back: A player the manager was personally delighted to sign this season after years of trying. Will plays at the very heart of midfield. To compare him to David Batty or would miss the incredible ball skills he possesses. As well as his formidable tackling, he constantly drives the team forward with his attitude and wide range of passing. Has popped up with 8 excellent goals, including a 35 yarder…or was it 45 Will?

Max Sharpe - Midfield/Half Back: Long standing Warrior servant and an Alexi Sanchez / hybrid. A dogged and determined player who the opposition just cannot shake off. Max has incredibly quick feet that gets him out of the most impossible of situations. One of the masterminds of the midfield this season. He amazed us all by popping up to score 2 crucial Cup goals…from inside the opposition box!! 3 Goals and Manager’s Player of the Season.

Lewis Glasscoe - Inside Half Back: One of 2 veteran Warriors of 12 seasons who has quietly ignored the embarrassment of his dad managing the team. Started as a rock solid U6 left back (who never ventured over the half way line) to an U18 Giggs- like left footed wizard, making dribbling & driving runs and leading the attacks from midfield. 20 goals this season from midfield was an outstanding contribution (including 10 in 10, sort of Van Nistelrooy like!)

Tom Daly - Defence/ Half Back: The “other” Warrior veteran: The very epitome of Warriors whose attitude to training and playing is high class. A firm favourite of the Beaumont Barmy Army…with cries of “Tommmeeeee”. Tom’s on the ball skills and robust tackling are his calling-card skills. A true squad player who always encourages others and someone the manager greatly admires.

Jake Ponte - Defence/Midfield/Forward: Every squad needs a Jake – A blend of Iniesta, Xavi and Reyes …. A truly great utility player blessed with great speed. A tenacious player who fights for every ball which means that opposition forwards are frustrated when he plays in midfield, while opposition defences are terrorised by his aggressive wing play. 2 goals

Joe Weaver - Centre Forward: A modern day Allan Clarke or even Gary Lineakar. Born to score goals from inside the 6-yard box Joe naturally takes up advanced positions to frequently make him on the spot to score. This season he has developed his game/strength even further to be able to hold up the ball and to release others to great effect – as the only non-Beaumont in the squad, this only adds to his strength of character.16 goals

Nico De Oleveira - Right Winger: Brexit?? Warriors went into Europe. Speed, flair and Cantona like temperament makes Nico a much loved player of the squad and supporters alike. Signed from a French club 2 seasons ago, it took a while to understand the manager’s instructions of “square ball” and “on me ‘ead son”, but our very own soon picked up the lingo, scoring and terrorising defences and also becoming a true Warrior. “Fraternite” was a symbol of Warriors this season. 20 goals and Supporters Player of the Season

Stuart Peet - Left Winger: The very epitome of a “luxury player”. Imagine Ginola, Le Tissier and De Canio all rolled into one…. (More defensive work from those than Stu !!) A very gifted player with great touch and ability on the ball. His ability to turn and beat players time and again is a delight to watch. As well as his eye for goal, his appreciation of others around him has helped to make the Warriors strike force unstoppable this season 31 goals –WFL Division Runner Up.

Sam Mardle –Coach - Sam has coached Warriors for several seasons. This season he gained his UEFA B coaching badge and there is no doubt that this excellent achievement was beneficial to the Warriors training sessions. All the Warriors wish Sam the very best in his future in football which I personally will watch with interest. A young Eddie Howe.

Samuel Bocca-Mapp Assistant Coach & Training Technician. One for the future. Samuel’s dedication to training was superb. Cones, balls, bags, bibs and goals were all put out, sorted out, collected or chased after. And all with a smile. Although, we thought we had lost him on one storm force night at training where a gust launched him towards Luton Airport! A true Warrior, and a young Sam Mardle!!!

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St Albans City Youth Disability Section

Coaches –Liam Dwyer, Jak Hamilton, Ben Kelly & Chris Samways. Director of Football – Steve Ward

Ben Kelly – Player/Coach and Captain of the 11 a-side team. Plays centre midfield and regularly contributes with goals and assists. Has also represented the Great Britain Special Olympic Team! Adam Simpson – Striker and Vice-Captain. Intelligent Inside forward who has contributed goals and assists in both 11aside and 7aside. Likes to take a warm up to show off his drama skills!

Paul Slattery – No.1 Goal Keeper for the 11aside and 7aside teams. Paul’s attitude and temperament has improved greatly this season alongside his handling and agility.

Tom Searl – Young goal keeper who made his 11 aside debut this year in both friendly and FA Tournament fixtures. League winner with Championship 7- aside team, great shot stopper!

Alex Brooks – Another young goal keeper who has come on leap and bounds over his first full season. Made his 11aside Tournament debut in January and is one to watch for the future!

Gary Darling – A solid left footed centre back renowned for his “Delap esq” throws and long ball hooks. Great no nonsense approach and a big character on and off the field, league winner as well!

Alan Winch – Tough tackling centre half who is one of the leaders on the pitch and as the oldest squad player shows incredible fitness. Alan has also managed the 5 aside teams with great success.

Jak Hamilton –Jak has come on leaps and bounds this season with his ball skills. Vast improvement has become a real goal predator on and off the field and is great at winning a ball.

Sam Harris – Popular character off the pitch and Mr Reliable on the pitch. Made some key tackles and blocks in the 11aside FA tournament later stages and is a Championship 7-aside league winner.

Matt “Hamster” Smith – Veteran of the team, is an effective communicator at training and in matches. Is the Intelligent older statesman of the team who shares his experience with all the players.

Sean Ellingham- Recently converted Centre back and also plays in centre midfield, key passer of the ball and has represent Great Britain at the Special Olympics in Los Angela’s last summer.

Sam Goldney – Has struggled with injuries this season however has recently returned to make an impact in the 11aside FA trophy campaign. Likes a good run with the ball and cuts inside field well.

Henry Cousins – Striker and Captain of the 7aside League team. Progressed greatly during the season in training and had an impressive 11aside debut at Clarence Park in May.

Paul Spinks – Great passer of the ball and tough tackling defensive midfielder who can also play defence.

Toby Smith – Back this season with his second spell at the club in a new position of defensive midfield. Key player during the team’s 11 a-side campaign this season and has lead well in 7 aside.

John “Whippet” Webster – Utility player on and off the pitch who features well on each wing. A big character within the squad who’s calming influence has benefitted the team. Reliable player who always give 100%.

Simon Duthie – Hard working skilful utility player and one of the fittest members of the team at pre- season. Simon has been unlucky with injuries this season but has played well when featured.

Tom Christmas – Preserving winger with a forceful shot and has bagged goals at 5 aside, Futsal and 7aside level. Likes the banter and cockney rhyming slang at training to the amusement of his team mates.

Ali Vivado – Tenacious agile midfielder with a spectacular touch. The “Alminator” has been a key player in the bronze winning 11 aside campaign and league winning 7-aside team.

Tom Ward - In his testimonial year with the club, plays either left midfield or as a striker. Influential passer and likes an audacious shot from distance. Was a key player in the championship winning 7 aside team and a consistent presence at all training sessions.

Ciaran Woods – Recent addition plays either on the wing or as a striker. Has bagged goals as part of 7aside championship league winning team and scored at Clarence Park on his 11 aside debut!

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St Albans City Youth Disability Section - Continued

Kyran Mundy – Young newcomer to the team, has a decent left foot and is great passer of the ball. Has improved in training during the season and contributed late on to the championship 7-asdie team.

Dennis Cranswick – Fox in the box and a menace to the opposing teams. Key goal scorer in big games and has been the overall club leading goal scorer this season.

Matt Dodds – Great Britain Gold Winning Utility Player who has covered every position this season except goal keeper! Has pace to burn, a great competitive nature and has played a key role in the 11 aside and 7 aside campaigns.

Ben Searl – Tricky winger who was promoted to the Premier 7asid team at the beginning of the season after some impressive displays. Ben has played well when featured in the 11aside squad and 7 aside.

Ian Pledger – Recent addition who is a hardworking and quickly improving.

St Albans City Youth Disability Team

Special Olympics GB Gold Medal Winners with Three City Youth Players Ben Kelly, Matt Dodds and Sean Ellingham

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St Albans City Youth Community Football Club - Registered Charity Number: 1089343

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