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The online newspaper from Hitchin Town FC
Scorecheck
Saturday February 6 2010
Zamaretto Midlands Division
AFC Sudbury 5-2 Aylesbury United
Barton Rovers p-p Rothwell Town
Beaconsfield SYCOB 0-4 Soham Town R
Bedworth United 1-3 Arlesey Town
Burnham 3-0 Bromsgrove Rovers
Chesham United 1-1 Bury Town
Hitchin Town 2-0 Romulus
Leighton Town 1-1 Atherstone
Stourport Swifts 2-1 Marlow
Sutton Coldfield 5-2 Biggleswade Town
Woodford United 0-1 Slough Town
Blue Square Premier
Tamworth 1-0 Stevenage Borough
Barrow 0-1 Luton Town
United Counties League
Blackstones 1-3 Stotfold
Spartan South Midlands League
Biggleswade Utd 2-1 Hatfield Town
Hanwell 3-0 Dunstable
Langford 3-3 Haringey Borough
Herts Senior County League
Croxley Guild 0-8 Baldock Town Letchworth
Saturday January 30 2010
Zamaretto Midlands Division
Arlesey Town 1-1 AFC Sudbury
Atherstone 2-0 Sutton Coldfield
Aylesbury Utd 3-3 Beaconsfield
Biggleswade Town 2-1 Burnham
Bromsgrove 1-2 Woodford
Bury Town 5-0 Leighton Town
Blue Square Premier
Luton Town 2-3 Ebbsfleet
FA Trophy
Stevenage Borough 4-1 Dover
United Counties League
Stotfold 6-2 Northampton Spencer
Spartan South Midlands League
Biggleswade Utd 0-1 Haringey
Langford 1-7 Chalfont St.Peter
Saturday January 23 2010
Zamaretto Midlands Division
AFC Sudbury 1-1 Romulus
Barton Rovers 1-1 Arlesey Town
Beaconsfield 4-0 Atherstone
Bedworth 2-2 Aylesbury United
Burnham 3-0 Soham Town
Chesham United 3-0 Rothwell Town
Hitchin Town 1-1 Bromsgrove Rovers
Leighton Town 3-1 Biggleswade Town
Stourport Swifts 1-4 Slough Town
Sutton Coldfield 2-2 Marlow
Woodford Utd p-p Bury Town
Blue Square Premier
Gateshead 0-1 Luton Town
Stevenage 2-0 Kettering
FA Vase Round Four
Stotfold 0-2 Shildon
Spartan South Midlands League
Biggleswade Utd 0-1 Hertford
Hanwell 3-1 Langford
Oxhey Jets 4-3 Dunstable
Herts Senior County League
Baldock Town 2-1 Croxley Guild
Saturday January 16 2010
Friendly
Hitchin Town 0-3 Hendon
Saturday January 2 2010
Zamaretto Midlands Division
AFC Sudbury 4-1 Chesham Utd
Soham Town 0-3 Bury Town
FA Cup Round Three
Southampton 1-0 Luton Town
United Counties League
Stotfold 2-2 Holbeach
Spartan South Midlands Lge
Chalfont St.Peter 5-1 Biggleswade United
Saturday December 26 2009
Zamaretto Midlands Division
Atherstone 4-2 Rothwell Town
Beaconsfield p-p Slough Town
Biggleswade Town 1-0 Soham Town
Bromsgrove p-p Stourport Swifts
Bury Town 3-1 AFC Sudbury
Chesham United p-p Aylesbury United
Hitchin Town 4-1 Arlesey Town
Leighton p-p Barton Rovers
Marlow p-p Burnham
Romulus p-p Sutton Coldfield
Woodford United p-p Bedworth
Blue Square Premier
Cambridge United 1-3 Stevenage
United Counties League
Stotfold p-p Newport Pagnell
Saturday December 19 2009
All games postponed
Saturday December 12 2009
Zamaretto Midlands Division
Slough Town 2-2 Romulus
Hitchin town 4-0 Burnham
Barton Rovers 1-1 Aylesbury Utd
Biggleswade Town 1-0 Bedworth
Chesham United 3-0 Atherstone Town
Marlow 1-2 Bury Town
Stourport Swifts 1-2 Soham Town
Sutton Coldfield 2-1 Beaconsfield SYCOB
Bromsgrove 1-0 Rothwell Town
Woodford United 3-2 AFC Sudbury
FA Trophy
Arlesey Town 1-1 Chippenham Town
Stevenage 2-0 Ebbsfleet
Cambridge Utd 3-1 Luton Town
United Counties League Lge Cup
Daventry Town 3-1 Stotfold
Spartan South Midlands League
Biggleswade Utd 0-3 ColneyHeath
Langford 4-1 Welwyn GC
Herts Senior County League
Baldock Town Letch 4-0 Sandridge
Saturday December 5 2009
Zamaretto Midlands Division
Barton 0-2 Romulus
Biggleswade p-p Beaconsfield
Bromsgrove 2-3 AFC Sudbury
Chesham 0-0 Arlesey Town
Hitchin Town 5-1 Aylesbury
Leighton 2-0 Bedworth
Marlow 1-0 Rothwell Town
Slough 0-1 Bury Town
Stourport 1-4 Burnham
Sutton Coldfield 6-0 Soham
Woodford p-p Atherstone
Blue Square Premier
Chester 0-0 Luton
Stevenage 2-0 Kidderminster
FA Vase
Stotfold 3-1 Badshot Lea
Spartan South Midlands League
Broxbourne 5-1 Langford
Saturday November 28 2009
Zamaretto Midlands Division
AFC Sudbury 0-1 Barton
Arlesey Town 1-0 Stourport
Atherstone 0-3 Marlow
Aylesbury Utd 2-5 Slough Town
Beaconsfield 1-1 Hitchin Town
Bedworth 2-1 Chesham United
Burnham 1-5 Sutton Coldfield
Bury Town 1-0 Bromsgrove
Romulus 1-1 Biggleswade Town
Rothwell P-P Leighton Town
Soham Town 4-4 Woodford Utd
FA Cup Round Two
Rotherham 2-2 Luton Town
Blue Square Premier
Salisbury 0-1 Stevenage Borough
United Counties League
Cogenhoe 0-1 Stotfold
Spartan South Midlands League
Dunstable 0-3 Hanwell
Hillingdon 1-2 Biggleswade Utd
Langford 1-5 St.Margaretsbury
Saturday November 21 2009
Zamaretto Midlands Division
Biggleswade Town 1-0 Atherstone
Bromsgrove 3-1 Beaconsfield SYCOB
Chesham United 0-3 Romulus
Leighton Town 4-4 Soham Town Rangers
Rothwell 2-2 Barton Rovers
Slough Town 2-0 Bedworth United
Stourport Swifts 1-2 Bury Town
Sutton Coldfield 0-2 AFC Sudbury
Woodford United 6-1 Aylesbury United
FA Trophy Third Qualifying Round
Billericay Town 0-0 Hitchin Town
Godalming 0-3 Arlesey Town
Worcester 2-1 Burnham
Blue Square Premier
Luton Town 2-2 Cambridge United
Forest Green 0-1 Stevenage Borough
United Counties League
Daventry 0-1 Stotfold
Spartan South Midlands League
Kingsbury London Tigers 2-0 Langford
Oxhey Jets 6-0 Biggleswade United
Royston 3-4 Dunstable
Herts Senior County League
Baldock Town 3-3 Bovingdon
Saturday November 14 2009
Zamaretto Midlands Division
Arlesey Town 4-1 Aylesbury United
Atherstone Town 2-0 Slough Town
Beaconsfield SYCOB 0-6 Stourport
Bromsgrove 1-1 Biggleswade Town
Bury Town 2-3 Burnham
Chesham 3-0 Woodford United
Leighton Town 2-2 Hitchin Town
Marlow 1-2 Romulus
Sutton Coldfield 1-1 Barton Rovers
Blue Square Premier
Stevenage Borough 5-3 Gateshead
Grays Athletic 0-2 Luton Town
FA Vase Round Two
S&L Corby 2-4 Stotfold
Kirkley 2-0 Biggleswade Utd
Spartan South Midlands
Harefield 1-2 Langford
Saturday November 7 2009
Zamaretto Midlands Division
Aylesbury United 0-4 Sutton Coldfield
Barton Rovers 1-2 Beaconsfield SYCOB
Bedworth United 4-1 Marlow
Biggleswade Town 1-1 Chesham Utd
Burnham 1-1 Leighton Town
Hitchin Town 2-1 Atherstone Town
Romulus 1-2 Bury Town
Slough Town 4-1 Rothwell Town
Soham Town 0-0 Bromsgrove Rovers
Stourport Swifts 1-1 AFC Sudbury
Woodford United 2-2 Arlesey Town
FA Cup Round One
Luton Town 3-3 Rochdale
Port Vale 1-1 Stevenage Borough
United Counties League
Desborough 2-2 Stotfold
Spartan South Midlands League
Langford 3-5 Aylesbury FC
Brimsdown 2-2 Dunstable
Royston 3-1 Hertford Town
Haringey p-p Biggleswade Utd
Herts Senior County League
Sandridge 2-2 Baldock Town Letchworth
London Lions 4-0 Codicote
Saturday October 31 2009
FA Carlsberg Trophy 2QR
Arlesey Town 2-1 Oxford City
Barton Rovers 2-2 Billericay Town
Bashley 2-1 Marlow
Boreham Wood 3-2 Slough Town
Croydon Athletic 1-1 Burnham
Hitchin Town 3-1 Gosport Borough
Zamaretto Midlands Division
Beaconsfield 1-4 Romulus
Bedworth 2-2 Bury Town
Chesham 2-3 SohamTown
Leighton 1-2 Bromsgrove
Rothwell 5-0 Aylesbury Utd
Stourport 1-3 Atherstone
Blue Square Premier
Kettering 1-1 Stevenage
Luton Town 0-2 Rushden & Diamonds
United Counties League
Stotfold 4-1 Yaxley
Spartan South Midlands League
Biggleswade Utd 3-2 Aylesbury FC
Hillingdon 1-2 Langford
Herts Senior Centenary Cup
Sun Sports 1-5 Baldock Town Letchworth
Saturday October 24 2009
Zamaretto Midlands Division
Arlesey Town 5-0 Barton Rovers
Atherstone 1-2 Beaconsfield SYCOB
Biggleswade Town 1-0 Leighton Town
Bromsgrove 0-1 Hitchin Town
Marlow 2-4 Sutton Coldfield Town
Romulus 0-1 AFC Sudbury
Rothwell Town 1-2 Chesham United
Slough Town 3-2 Stourport Swifts
Soham Town 1-1 Burnham
FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round
Luton Town 3-0 Grays Athletic
Chelmsford 1-2 Stevenage Borough
York City 2-0 Bedworth United
United Counties League
Sleaford 4-1 Stotfold
Spartan South Midlands League
Chalfont St.Peter 1-4 Royston Town
Dunstable 1-0 Oxhey Jets
Kentish Town 2-2 Biggleswade Utd
Langford 0-1 Tring Athletic
Saturday October 17 2009
FA Trophy First Qualifying Round
AFC Sudbury 3-3 Billericay Town
AFC Totton 3-3 Woodford United
Atherstone 1-3 Leigh Genesis
Beaconsfield SYCOB 1-4 Bashley
Biggleswade Town 2-2 Chipstead
Burnham 3-2 Cinderford Town
Canvey Island 1-2 Hitchin Town
Chesham United 2-2 Oxford City
Corinthian Casuals 0-3 Arlesey Town
FC Halifax 2-0 Romulus
Horsham 4-4 Barton Rovers
Merthyr Tydfil 0-0 Marlow
Soham Town 2-2 Harrow Borough
Uxbridge 1-1 Slough Town
Witton Albion 1-1 Sutton Coldfield
Zamaretto Midlands Division
Bedworth 4-0 Stourport
Blue Square Premier
Stevenage 3-1 Salisbury
Altrincham 0-1 Luton Town
United Counties League
Stotfold 2-0 Long Buckby
Spartan South Midlands Lge
Biggleswade Utd 0-1 Kingsbury
Haringey 3-0 Langford
Tring Ath 4-2 Royston Town
Saturday October 10 2009
FA Cup Third Qualifying Round
Aylesbury 4-3 Chesham United
Bury Town 1-1 Bedford Town
Coventry Sphinx 0-1 Bedworth United
Lowestoft Town 0-0 Sutton Coldfield
Tooting & Mitcham 3-2 Slough Town
Zamaretto Midlands Division
AFC Sudbury 2-3 Marlow
Arlesey Town 2-0 Romulus
Barton Rovers 2-2 Biggleswade Town
Burnham 1-0 Woodford United
Rothwell Town 2-2 Beaconsfield SYCOB
Soham Town Rangers 1-3 Atherstone Town
Stourport Swifts 5-4 Aylesbury United
Blue Square Premier
Kidderminster 1-2 Luton Town
Stevenage 4-0 Hayes & Yeading
United Counties League
Holbeach 3-1 Stotfold
Spartan South Midlands League
Brimsdown 0-0 Langford
Leverstock Green 2-1 Biggleswade United
Saturday October 3 2009
FA Trophy Preliminary Round
Barton Rovers 1-1 Ilford
Beaconsfield 2-1 Aylesbury United
Croydon Ath 2-1 Bury Town
Fleet Town 2-0 Bromsgrove
Folkestone 0-1 Hitchin Town
Leighton Town 3-0 Harlow Town
Mossley 5-2 Bedworth
North Leigh 2-3 Burnham
Potters Bar 0-0 Arlesey Town
Rothwell 0-1 Gosport
Soham Town 3-1Cheshunt
Stourport 0-1 Hungerford
Tilbury 1-2 Biggleswade Town
Blue Square Premier
York City 1-1 Stevenage
Luton Town 2-1 Tamworth
FA Vase Round One
Biggleswade United 1-2 Kingsbury Lon.Tigers
Broxbourne Boro 1-2 Stotfold
Halstead 3-0 Dunstable
Langford 1-2 Wembley
Herts Senior County League
London Lions 1-3 Baldock Town Letchworth
Saturday September 26 2009
Zamaretto Midlands Division
Biggleswade Town 0-4 Rothwell Town
Bromsgrove 1-0 Barton Rovers
Leighton Town 6-4 AFC Sudbury
Marlow 6-1 Soham Town Rangers
Woodford United 1-2 Stourport Swifts
Red Insure Cup
Hemel Hempstead 0-0 Hitchin (Hemel win 8-7 on pens)
FA Cup Second Qualifying Round
Bedford Town 2-1 Romulus
Bedworth 2-1 Rainworth MW
Burnham 1-1 Aveley
Chesham 4-2 Billericay
Matlock 2-2 Bury Town
Slough Town 2-0 Concord Rangers
Sutton Coldfield 3-0 Needham Market
United Counties League
Boston Town 3-0 Stotfold
Spartan South Midlands League
Langford 2-3 Hanwell
Blue Square Premier
Cambridge U 3-4 Luton Town
Stevenage 1-1 Altrincham
Saturday September 19 2009
Zamaretto Midlands Division
Atherstone 0-2 AFC Sudbury
Barton Rovers 5-2 Bedworth
Beaconsfield 1-2 Arlesey Town
Biggleswade 2-3 Marlow
Bromsgrove 5-0 Aylesbury
Burnham 0-0 Romulus
Hitchin Town 1-2 Chesham
Leighton 2-1 Stourport
Rothwell 0-0 Bury Town
Soham Town 0-2 Slough Town
Sutton Coldfield 2-1 Woodford
Blue Square Premier
Chester City 0-1 Stevenage
United Counties League
Newport Pagnell 1-0 Stotfold
FA Vase
Biggleswade Utd 7-0 Codicote
Langford 1-0 Hertford Town
Saturday September 12 2009
FA Cup First Qualifying Round
AFC Sudbury 0-2 Needham Market
Arlesey Town 1-2 Wealdstone
Aylesbury United 0-0 Potters Bar
Bromsgrove 1-1 Stourbridge
Bury Town 2-0 Kings Lynn
Canvey Island 3-3 Hitchin
Causeway United 0-0 Bedworth United
Chesham United 1-1 Harrow Borough
Hemel Hempstead 1-1 Slough Town
Marlow 0-2 Hendon
Tomulus 2-1 Castle Vale
Thame United 0-2 Burnham
Westfields 0-6 Sutton Coldfield
Zamaretto League Midlands
Atherstone 1-1 Biggleswade
Soham 2-3 Beaconsfield SYCOB
Stourport 1-1 Rothwell Town
Blue Square Premier
Luton Town 1-0 Barrow
Mansfield 2-3 Stevenage Borough
Spartan South Midlands League
Chalfont St.Peter 1-3 Langford
Hanwell 1-1 Biggleswade Utd
Saturday September 5 2009
Zamaretto League Midlands
AFC Sudbury 1-2 Burnham
Arlesey Town 0-0 Bromsgrove Rovers
Aylesbury United 3-4 Atherstone Town
Bedworth United 1-3 Rothwell Town
Bury Town 5-1 Beaconsfield SYCOB
Chesham United 4-1 Sutton Coldfield Town
Marlow 0-2 Leighton Town
Romulus 1-0 Soham Town Rangers
Slough Town 4-2 Biggleswade Town
Stourport Swifts 0-1 Hitchin Town
Woodford United 1-0 Barton Rovers
Blue Square Premier
Salisbury 1-1 Luton Town
FA Vase
Baldock Town Letchworth 1-1 Wivenhoe T
Spartan South Midlands League
Langford 1-6 Royston
Biggleswade Utd 0-2 Chalfont St.Peter
Tring Athletic 0-2 Dunstable
United Counties League
Stotfold 0-3 Blackstones
Saturday August 29 2009
FA Cup Preliminary Round
Arlesey Town 2-0 Hatfield Town
Atherstone 1-2 Romulus
Barton Rovers 2-3 Ware
Biggleswade United 1-2 Halstead
Burnham 2-1 Kentish Town
Chesham United 2-0 Chalfont St.Peter
Coventry Spinx 4-4 Stourport Swifts
Dudley 3-3 Bromsgrove Rovers
Dunstable 0-2 Wingate & Finchley
FC Clacton 0-1 Hitchin Town
Harefield 2-1 Biggleswade Town
Leek Town 2-3 Bedworth United
Leighton Town 0-0 Aylesbury Vale
Marlow 2-0 Ilford
Rothwell 0-1 Bury Town
Soham Town Rangers 0-0 St.Ives
Stanway 2-0 Beaconsfield SYCOB
Sutton Coldfield 2-1 Tipton
Tring Ath 0-4 Slough Town
Woodford United 1-2 AFC Sudbury
Blue Square Premier
Kettering 0-0 Luton Town
Stevenage 2-1 Rushden
United Counties League
S&L Corby 1-2 Stotfold
Spartan South Midlands League
Langford 0-7 Colney Heath
Herts Senior County League
Met.Police Bushey 0-7 Baldock Town Letchworth
Saturday August 22 2009
Zamaretto Midland Division
AFC Sudbury 0-2 Beaconsfield
Arlesey Town 2-0 Atherstone
Aylesbury United 0-4 Soham Town Rangers
Bedworth United 0-1 Burnham
Bury Town 2-2 Sutton Coldfield
Chesham 1-2 Leighton Town
Marlow 2-4 Bromsgrove Rovers
Romulus 1-1 Rothwell
Slough Town 5-1 Barton Rovers
Stourport Swifts 0-0 Biggleswade
Woodford United 1-3 Hitchin Town
United Counties League
Stotfold 3-2 Desborough
Spartan South Midlands League
Biggleswade Utd 3-1 Brimsdown
Dunstable 6-2 Haringey
Langford 0-5 Broxbourne
Royston 2-1 Hillingdon
Blue Square Premier
Luton Town 0-0 Chester
Oxford United 2-1 Stevenage
Herts Senior County League
Baldock Town 3-0 Wormley
Saturday August 15 2009
Zamaretto Midland Division
Atherstone Town 3-6 Bury Town
Barton Rovers 0-4 Stourport Swifts
Beaconsfield SYCOB 0-2 Woodford United
Biggleswade Town 3-1 Aylesbury United
Bromsgrove Rovers 0-0 Chesham United
Burnham 0-0 Arlesey Town
Hitchin Town 3-0 Marlow
Leighton Town 1-0 Romulus
Rothwell Town 1-0 AFC Sudbury
Soham Town Rangers 2-2 Bedworth United
Sutton Coldfield Town 2-2 Slough Town
Blue Square Premier
Barrow 0-0 Stevenage
Luton 2-1 Gateshead
FA Cup Extra Prelim. Round
FC Clacton 2-1 London ASPA
Biggleswade Utd 2-0 Stotfold
Bicester 1-4 Dunstable
Langford 0-6 Aylesbury Vale
Herts Senior County League
Baldock Town 3-2 Letchworth-Codicote
Saturday August 8 2009
Blue Square Premier
AFC Wimbledon 1-1 Luton Town
Stevenage Borough 1-1 Tamworth
United Counties League
Deeping Rangers 2-3 Stotfold
Spartan South Midlands League
Biggleswade Utd 1-1 Royston Town
Oxhey Jets 2-4 Langford
Broxbourne 2-2 Dunstable
League Tables
Hitchin Town
Goal at each end of game wins it for Canaries
February 6: An early strike and a late goal were enough to give Hitchin a 2-0 win against a stubborn Romulus side. Ieuan Lewis gave Hitchin a sixth minute lead, running 30 yards before placing a low shot past Matt Sargeant. Romulus proved a difficult side to break down, and Marcus brown had two chances to level. The Canaries played dome good football in the first period, but they had to wait until the 89th minute for the clinching goal, substitute Jon Stevenson prodding home after Arlick's close range effort following a Zak Burke free kick, was spilled by Sargeant. The crowd was an excellent 356.
Canaries off again
January 30: Slough v Hitchin was called off due to a frozen pitch.
Rovers surprise Payne's men
January 23: Hitchin were held 1-1 by troubled Bromsgrove this afternoon in a scrappy encounter. Hitchin had a good start when Harry Hunt hit the woodwork, but they were unable to build on their early dominance. Bromsgrove took the lead in the 43rd minute when Luke Findlay was upended in the area and Dexter Ravenhill netted from the penalty spot. Hitchin levelled in the 55th minute when Tony Fontenelle's ball into the box was flicked home by Jamie Arlick. The Canaries had late chances to win, with Dean Gilbert heading wide and Arlick denied by a flying save from Karl Lewis.
Hendon too strong for Canaries
January 16: Hitchin got their long-awaited run-out when they met Ryman Premier Hendon on the artificial surface at Norton Road. After a bright opening, the Canaries found that the London side had just a little too much in reserve and ran out 3-0 winners.Hitchin played some good football, with Jamie Arlick and Harry Hunt looking sharp up front, and Richad Howell went close to scoring. Dean Gilbert also should have scored, but volleyed over from close range.Hendon took the lead after 44 minutes, Bradley Woods-Garness tapping the ball home from six yards. Hendon added to their lead in the 46th minute when Jamie Busby netted from the penalty spot, and the visitors scored again on 65 minutes through Yacine Hamada shot into the net after evading the challenge of two defenders.
Canaries game off again
January 8: Hitchin Town's game with Bedworth, scheduled for January 9, has been postponed.
Hitchin still waiting to kick a ball in 2010
January 2: The Canaries game at Barton was postponed.
Canaries underline local superiority
December 26: Hitchin comfortably won this most local of local derbies with an emphatic victory against a leaden-footed Arlesey side in front of more than 500 people at Top Field.The Canaries took the lead after nine minutes when Richard Howell's free kick was parried by Martyn Patching and Jamie Arlick netted from the rebound. Six minutes later, a long ball from Tony Fontenelle ended with Patching wrong-footed and Arlick took advantage to score his second goal. Arlesey pulled a goal back on 22 minutes when Chris Marsh scored with a well struck shot from the edge of the area. But just 30 seconds later, Hitchin restored their two-goal advantage when Arlick flicked on a long ball and Harry Hunt rounded the hapless Patching to score. Arlick secured his hat-trick in the 63rd minute when Fontenelle went on a characteristic long run and slid the ball through for the in-form striker to flick the ball home. Arlesey's afternoon got worse when midfielder Derwayne Stupple brought down Ieuen Lewis in full flight and was awarded a red card. Craig Reynolds, for Arlesey, and Hitchin's Danny May both struck the woodwork in the closing stages.
Canaries make bid to get game on
December 24: Hitchin Town are making a brave bid to get their Boxing Day game with Arlesey played. The club is appealing to fans to come along and help clear the snow off the Top Field pitch.
Best yet from Canaries
December 12: Two goals apiece from Jamie Arlick and Harry Hunt were enough to beat Burnham as Hitchin put on their best display of the season in their top of the table clash. The 4-0 win sent the Canaries back to the top and compensated for the midweek defeat at Soham. Hunt gave Hitchin the lead after 17 minutes, touching the ball home after Richard Howell headed goalwards. Arlick made it 2-0 after 29 minutes, sweeping the ball into the net after good work by Howell. Arlick's second goal came from the penalty spot after 57 minutes and six minutes later, Hunt netted from close range after Howell's shot was parried by Paul McCarthy.
Canaries go nap against strugglers
December 5: Hitchin went back to the top of the Zamaretto Midland Division with a 5-1 win against Aylesbury United. The first goal came in the 22nd minute. Jamie Arlick was set free down the flank, he cut inside and sent a shot crashing against the crossbar. The ball rebounded, hit Ieuan Lewis and rolled into the net. Hitchin shook off their malaise in the 62nd minute when Lewis shot home from close range after good work by Burke. It was a the prelude to burst of scoring in the final 13 minutes. First, in the 77th minute, substitute Jeff Hammond played the ball through to Arlick and he shot low into the net. Two minutes later, Arlick headed his second following a Carl Williams free kick. Four minutes from time, Hitchin netted again, Hammond latched onto Arlick’s hooked pass, taking advantage of some hesitancy in the visitor’s defence and shot past Sillitoe. Aylesbury had the last word, however, a 90th minute bullet header by Matt Ansell from Keith Newby’s corner kick.
Beaconsfield hold Canaries on a sad day
November 28: On a day when Hitchin lost one of its most passionate supporters, Beaconsfield gained their first home point of the season. The game at Holloways Park was overshadowed by the death of former secretary Alan Sexton, but it was also a lack lustre performance by the Canaries. The home side took the lead through Henry Atu are 18 minutes and also hit the woodwork in the first half. Hitchin improved after the break and in the 54th minute, Jeff Hammond equalised, sliding the ball home after a Ieuan Lewis cross. Hammond hit the post with a header in final minute, but Colin Payne's men had to settle for a draw.
Hitchin earn a replay at Billericay
November 21: Hitchin Town will meet Billericay again on Tuesday in the FA Trophy 3QR after this keenly fought tie at New Lodge. Hitchin had early chances through Ieuan Lewis, but the home side adopted a tough stance late in the half and had David McSweeney sent off for a lunge on Dean Gilbert. The second half was all Hitchin, but the home defence held firm and rarely looked in danger of conceding a goal.
Weather and Leighton get in Hitchin's way
November 14: On an atrocious afternoon, Hitchin were held to a draw by a stubborn Leighton Town side. The Canaries took the lead twice, but each time the home side came back to level the scores. Zak Burke opened the scoring after 29 minutes, but seven minutes later, Jeff Deaton equalised for Leighton. Hitchin were under pressure for much of the second half and Leighton hit the woodwork twice. But in the 72nd minute, Louis Lee headed Hitchin back in front. Ten minutes from time, though, Leighton scored again to make it 2-2.
Canaries go five clear at the top after lucky win
November 7: Hitchin Town went five points clear at the top of the Zamaretto Midland Division with a 2-1 win against Atherstone this afternoon.The Canaries scarcely deserved to beat a youthful Atherstone side and had to thank two goals in a five minute spell and a last minute penalty save to preserve the points. Atherstone took the lead through an Ashley Grinham own goal after 22 minutes. Hitchin struggled to find their form, but in the 65th minute, Richard Howell shot home an equaliser. In the 69th minute, it was 2-1, Zak Burke turning a rifling a low shot beyond Atherstone keeper Woakes.
In the final minute, the visitors were awarded a penalty but Martin Bennett continued his fine run of form with a double save. “We got out of jail today,” said Canaries manager Colin Payne. “But we know where we went wrong.”
Gilbert sets Hitchin up for Trophy win
October 31: In an entertaining game at Top Field, Hitchin disposed of Zamaretto S&W side Gosport. Dean Gilbert scored his first goal for the club with a 25 yard strike on 30 minutes. Steve Velandia scored from a free kick after 47 minutes to increase the Canaries' lead, but on 69 minutes, Glen Howes pulled one back for Gosport. An excessive period of added time gave Htchin the chance to clinch the win. Ieuan Lewis was brought down in the area and although Jamie Arlick's penalty was saved, he followed up to score the Canaries' third goal.
Arlick sends Hitchin back to the top
October 24: A 19th minute goal from Jamie Arlick was enough to beat Bromsgrove Rovers this afternoon and send Hitchin back to the top of the table. In an untidy 90 minutes, Hitchin were rarely troubled although they struggled to find their best form against a club in crisis. Arlick had the simple task of shooting into the net after Bromsgrove keeper Karl Lewis slipped up.
"The team is taking shape", says Payne
October 18: Colin Payne believes the Hitchin team is shaping up well for a promotion challenge. Payne says the team has the right blend of youth and experience, but he is aware that the team has to finish top of the table to guarantee promotion. To hear a new audio interview (4mins 49 secs), click here
Bennett the hero as Canaries win at Canvey
October 17: Hitchin goalkeeper Martin Bennett was the hero of the hour as the Canaries pulled off an impressive FA Trophy win at Canvey Island. Bennett saved a second half penalty and performed heroics in the Hitchin goal throughout the 90 minutes. Jeff Hammond gave Hitchin a fourth minute lead, running on to a Fontenelle pass and slipping the ball past James Russell. Canvey hit the woodwork and Bennett came to the rescue on a number of spactacular saves to keep his side ahead. In the 59th minute, Zak Burke extended Hitchin's lead with a spectacular strike, but four minutes later, James Rowe pulled one back for the Ryman Premier side. Ieuan Lewis, who had an excellent games, almost extended Hitchin's lead in added time. Final score: Canvey 1 Hitchin 2
Easy win for Payne's men
October 10: Hitchin were comfortable 4-1 winners against Ryman Premier Harrow Borough at Top Field this afternoon in a friendly match played before 100 people. Jeff Hammond opened the scoring from the penalty spot after three minutes and Brett Donnelly grabbed two in the first half on 27 and 43 minutes. Richard Howell netted a cracker in the 52nd minute before Harrow scored a 72nd minute penalty through Freddom Piggott.
Arlick brings relief to Canaries
October 3: A well taken goal by Jamie Arlick in the 88th minute gave Hitchin a 1-0 win at Folkestone in the FA Trophy this afternoon. Arlick's goal, coming at the end of the game dominated by Colin Payne's men, sets up a return trip to Canvey Island on October 17. Hitchin had an early scare when Jimmy Jackson struck the woodwork, but chances fell to Arlick and Jeff Hammond in the first half. Hitchin gained fresh impetus in the second period and a Richard Howell free kick was well saved by the Folkestone keeper. Luke Donnelly shot against the crossbar seconds later. It was Howell that set-up Arlick with two minutes to go.
Penalty shoot-out sees Hemel through
September 26: Hitchin were beaten on penalties in a mammoth shoot-out at Hemel Hempstead this afternoon. The Canaries, who had made the running in a Red Insure Cup tie against Premier Division hosts, were beaten 8-7 after Mark Smith’s penalty was saved. The game ended goalless after 120 minutes. It wasn’t a classic encounter, with very few chances but Hitchin had the best chance of the game in the final minute of extra time, Zak Burke hitting the crossbar. Manager Colin Payne made four changes to the side that started against Chesham a week ago, bringing in Danny Payne, Brett Donnelly, Lance Gentle-King and Louis Lee.
Canaries lose their unbeaten record
September 19: Hitchin Town went down to a 90th minute winner from Chesham substitute Steve Obeng and lost their 100% unbeaten record. Colin Payne's men were beaten 1-2 in front of a 400-plus crowd, after taking a first half lead through Jamie Arlick. Hitchin had the better of the first half, but Chesham did strike the woodwork twice in the first 45 minutes. They equalised after 53 minutes through Sam Ledger and in a first half dominated by the visitors, Hitchin had few opportunities. It was left to Obeng to clinch the points. Hitchin are still top of the Zamaretto Midlands Divison - but only just!
Great comeback earns Canaries a replay
September 12: Hitchin came back from 3-0 down to earn a draw against Ryman Premier side Canvey Island. In a full-blooded FA Cup tie, the Canaries were two-down inside 11 minutes when Canvey scored through Jay Curran (8 mins) and James Rowe (11 mins). Greg Cohen netted a third for Canvey before Luke Donnelly pulled one back from close range a minute before the break. Jeff Hammond missed a 51st minute penalty but five minutes later, Hammond was brought down and Jamie Arlick was successful from the spot. Canvey keeper James Russell was red carded for bringing Hammond down. Hitchin went all out to save the game and 14 minutes from the end, Zak Burke shot home their third. Final score 3-3 and the teams meet again on Tuesday.
Tough afternoon for Payne's leaders
September 5: Hitchin maintained their 100% record in the Zamaretto Midland and equalled an 81 year-old club record of five consecutive wins at the start of a season. The Canaries beat Stourport 1-0 and the matchwinner, for the second week running was Luke Donnelly, who scored after three minutes from 10 yards.
Hitchin had to contend with some rough-arm tactics from the home side and Storuport were fortunate not to lose a man before the interval. Zak Burke hit the woodwork and Jamie Arlick and Jeff Hammond both had chances to add to the scoreline, but one goal was enough.
Seaside shuffle for Canaries
August 29: A first half goal from Luke Donnelly was enough to send Hitchin through to the First Qualifying Round of the FA Cup at FC Clacton. But the afternoon was overshadowed by an injury to Richard Howell, who dislocated his shoulder in the second half. In a scruffy game played on a bumpy and dusty surface, Hitchin made heavy weather of their hosts. But Canaries' goalkeeper Martin Bennett had a comfortable afternoon and the result was rarely in doubt. Donnelly's goal came in the 34th minute, a header from a Jamie Arlick cross.
Hitchin win again....top by two points
August 22: Hitchin maintained their 100% league record and went two points clear at the top of the Zamaretto Midlands, beating Woodford United away by 3-1. Zak Burke gave the Canaries the lead after 16 minutes, and Jamie Arlick headed home a second just before the interval. The home side came more into the game and after 55 minutes, Karl Fellows scored after his penalty kick had been saved by Martin Bennett. There were some uncomfortable moments, but in the 72nd minute, Richard Howell fired home a third for Hitchin. Final score 3-1.
Comfortable start for Canaries
August 15: Hitchin Town got off to the best possible start in their opening league game of the season, beating Marlow 3-0 at Top Field.
The Canaries took the lead in the 41st minue when Jamie Arlick shot home from the edge of the penalty area.
Ten minutes into the second half, Luke Donnelly made it 2-0, sweeping the ball into the net after good work by Tony Fontenelle.
Hitchin’s day was complete in the 62nd minute when Zak Burke cleverly backheeled home after Marlow goalkeeper Kieron Drake fumbled an Ashley Grinham cross.
“It wasn’t pretty, but it was good to start with a 3-0 win,” said manager Colin Payne.
Howell added to Hitchin squad
August 15: Hitchin's new signing, Richard Howell, is included in the Canaries squad for today's opening game of the season against Marlow. Howell, who was previously with Bishop's Stortford, was signed on Thursday night. The Hitchin squad will be: Bennett, Dunn, Grinham, Payne, Smith, Gilbert, Reece, Fontenelle, Velandia, Howell, L.Donnelly, Lewis, Williams, Brinkman, Thompson, Arlick, Burke
Hitchin ready for the challenge
August 8: Hitchin Town completed their pre-season programme against Wealdstone, earning a 0-0 draw against Ryman Premier opposition.
It was yet another clean sheet for the Canaries, something which hasn’t happened too often over the past few years. With veteran defender Mark Smith and Dean Gilbert forging a good partnership at the back, hopes are high that Hitchin will be hard to beat in 2009-10.
In midfield, Ieuan Lewis has looked sharp in pre-season and Luke Donnelly is improving by the game. But manager Colin Payne appears to have pulled off a coup in signing Zak Burke, who has impressed throughout the summer. Recent addition Steve Velandia, has also shown some nice touches. Tony Fontenelle will also be a valuable capture.
Up front, Jamie Arlick has a striking resemblance to Matt Nolan and Jeff Hammond, when he returns from suspension, knows that a lot is expected of him this season.
One player who won’t be featuring this season after all is Richard Wilmot. He has joined AFC Sudbury.
Carl Williams has been pleased with the club’s pre-season. “It has been a good build-up,” he said. “But we will know how good we are in about four or five weeks.”
Hammond signs on
July 6: Hitchin have signed striker Jeff Hammond on for 2009-10 as manager Colin Payne starts to assemble his squad. Hammond, who netted 10 goals in 15 games last season, making him a big favourite with the crowd, will play an important part in the Canaries’ season in the Southern League Midland Division. Payne is delighted to tie-down the diminutive striker. “Jeff did very well for us and I just know he will get a lot of goals for us next season. He is pivotal in my plans and his signing will make a lot of people happy,” he says.
Canaries launch code of conduct
June 28: Hitchin Town is set to launch a new and stringent code of conduct for playing members of the club in 2009-10. The Canaries management, perplexed at the club’s disciplinary record over the past few years, is determined to improve Hitchin Town’s reputation. Chairman Terry Barratt said: “Our record over the past few seasons has been poor, around 40 sending-offs and countless yellow cards. This not only costs the club money, but also damages our reputation. We are not prepared to accept this and as a result, a code of conduct, which we will establish with manager Colin Payne, will be set in motion.”
Payne expects tough competition
June 2: Hitchin manager Colin Payne anticipates a fiercely competitive BGB Midland division next season with local rivalry adding spice to the campaign. Payne was pleasantly surprised at the constitution of the league, with unexpected games against Burnham, Beaconsfield and Slough. He expects Slough, where former Canaries manager Darren Salton is currently serving as assistant manager, to be a challenger. “They’re a big club and although they are groundsharing, they have the potential to be up there.”
But he also sees competition coming from more local sources. “Arlesey have fresh impetus and if you believe the rumours, an injection of resources. They will be a threat,” says Payne.
There are quite a few “unknowns” for Payne and both he and Carl Williams have their work cut out in getting to grips with the new world Hitchin find themselves in. “Clubs like Soham, Sutton Coldfield, Atherstone and Romulus are not familiar to us, but we will doing our homework in the next few weeks. What we do expect is a lot of clubs in contention and we aim to be one of them.”
Payne and Williams have been speaking constantly to players and by the time the Canaries report back for pre-season training, there could be some “flesh on the bones”. In the meantime, Hitchin have three summer training sessions planned: June 10, June 17 and June 24.
May 20: Hitchin will face Cheshunt in the Herts Charity Cup first round on July 21. For the full draw go to www.hitchintownfc.co.uk
May 11: Mark Barnes, Hitchin's player of the year, will not be at Top Field in 2009-10. Barnes, who ended the campaign as the Canaries' leading scorer, is now based in Swindon and the travelling to and from North Herts has become a problem. Barnes was full of praise for the club, however, and thanked Hitchin fans for their support.
April 25: Hitchin Town were today relegated for the first time since 1998 and only the third time in their history. The Canaries were beaten 2-1 by Evesham, despite taking a first half lead.
Mark Barnes gave Hitchin the lead in a tense first period, curling his shoot round goalkeeper Nathan Vaughan. But in the final minute of the first half, Jermaine Clarke dived to head Evesham level. Hitchin had their chances in the early stages of the second period, Barnes glancing a header wide and then seeing a hooked effort cleared off the line. Evesham scored their winner in the 83rd minute, Robert Ager lobbing Canaries goalkeeper Martin Bennett.
Local football
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Zamaretto League
Bullard off as Bury draw
February 6: Bury Town slipped further behind leaders Hitchin after drawing 1-1 at Chesham United. Kieran Leabon scored on his return to Bury after joining from Histon, hitting the net just before the half time whistle. Chesham drew level in the 51st minute through Marsala. Bury were dealt another blow when Tom Bullard was sent off for two cautions in the second half.
Rare home win for Sudbury
February 6: A hat-trick by Craig Hammond gave AFC Sudbury a 5-2 win against struggling Aylesbury. Sudbury took the lead on four minutes through Craig Hughes and Danny Emmanuel made it 2-0 on 14. Aylesbury pulled a goal back within a minute through Shiblu Miah. Hammond had a purple patch in the second half, scoring his hat-trick in a 15-minute spell, scoring on 57, 62 and 71 minutes. Aylesbury pulled one back eight minutes from time when former Hitchin striker shrugged aside a challenge before shooting past Richard Wimot.
Slough keep up the pressure
February 6: Steve Sinclair's first-half strike proved the only goal of the game as Slough Town recorded a vital three points in the race for promotion. Woodford United, who had been unbeaten in eight league matches going into the game, applied heavy pressure in the second half but Slough held onto the lead and also missed some good chances.
Easy for Burnham
February 6: Burnham kept up their good home form with what proved in the end a comfortable victory. The home side opened the scoring after just three minutes. Stuart Swift delivered a high ball into the Rovers penalty area, where Ryan Bird headed on to the unmarked Denis Fennemore who gave keeper Karl Lewis no chance from 10 yards. Burnham went two ahead on 32 minutes, a Paul Coyne corner headed back across goal to Fennemore who pushed the ball back to Ross Lafayette who dived to head his first goal for Burnham. Just three minutes into the second half Burnham scored their third through Fennemore.
Blues end bad run
February 6: Arlesey Town bounced back at Bedworth United to secure their first league win since November 28. They were 3-1 winners with goals from Joe Reynolds on 36 minutes, Mark Coulson on 50 and Marc Leach who netted from the penalty spot on the hour, the Bedworth reply coming from Ramsay on 51 minutes.
Late goal earns Arlesey a point
January 30: An early Rhys Darg goal for AFC Sudbury was cancelled out when Arlesey's Mark Coulson scored in the third minute of stoppage time to earn Arlesey a 1-1 draw.
Bury go nap and go top
January 30: Bury Town went top of the Midlands Division thanks to a five-goal drubbing of Leighton Town. After a slow start, Bury took the lead in the 29th minute when Ben Coker's cross was converted by Sam Reed gave.Bury had a very good shout for a penalty turned down in the 38th minute, but a minute later doubled their lead with a fine strike by Ben Coker from just ourside the box that the keeper failed top hold. Five minutes later, it was three as, following a fine move down the left, Lee Underwwod ran onto Sam Reed`s pass to fire into the far corner. Bury started the second period well on top and it was no surprise when they went further ahead after 57 minutes. More good work down the left by Coker saw his cross hammered home by Lee Underwood for his second goal and Bury`s fourth.Two minutes later Bury wrapped up the scoring when Lee Reed got on the end of a diagonal cross by Michael Steward to head home past Kevin Marsh in the visitors goal.
Watch those Waders!
January 30: Biggleswade Town enjoyed their best Southern League win of the season this afternoon by beating promotion hopefuls Burnham 2-1 at the Carlsberg Stadium.
In a game full of good football on a sticky Langford Road pitch, the Waders had the better of the goalless opening half but conceded against the run of play on 70 minutes when Burnham's Stuart Swift volleyed home. However the Waders deservedly levelled the game six minutes later when Bobby Dance latched onto a superb ball from Jamie Steele to beat Burnham keeper Paul McCarthy with a neat finish. Ten minutes from time, another ex-Hitchin man, Glen Lamacraft smashed home the winner.
Slough warm-up for big clash with Hitchin
January 23: Slough returned to action following a six week break to gain on league leaders Hitchin. Paul Edgeworth opened the scoring with a well placed header before a superb strike from Steve Sinclair five minutes later doubled the lead. Slough had to ride out a storm at the start of the second half but were able to extend their lead through Dean Clark, bundling the ball home from six yards and Elliott Buchanan finished off the scoring with nine minutes remaining. Warren Cornes pulled one back for the home side, rounding Ricky Perks to score.
Archer double sets up Chesham
January 23: Chesham continued their improved form with three second half goals against Rothwell. After dominating the first half, Chesham took the lead on 53 minutes, Leon Archer racing clear to score. In the 70th minute, Steve Wales netted the second, turning in the area to shoot past Rothwell keeper Lee Crockett. The scoring was completed by Archer, who was set up by Wales in the 74th minute.
Penalty saves Blues
January 23: A late minute penalty by Mark Leach earned Arlesey a point at struggling Barton. Barton took the lead after 29 minutes when former Hitchin and Stotfold striker Joel Mason cut inside and shot home. A minutes from the end, Nathan Frater was hauled down in the area and Leach netted from the spot. 116 people saw the game.
Burnham back on form
January 23: Burnham kept the pressure up at the top with a 3-0 win against Soham. They took the lead on 36 minutes when Stuart Swift broke up a Soham attack and released Denis Fenemore down the left who ran on and fired a low shot beyond Pledger. Burnham added to their on 42 minutes, Fennemore cut inside and slipped the ball to Ryan Bird who gave Pledger no chance with a firm drive. And on 89 minutes Burnham made it 3-0. Fennemore delivered the ball into the penalty area, where substitute Jordan Dowdican held off two defenders to turn and fire low into the net.
Shock for Chesham
January 2: There was another blow for fourth-placed Chesham United as they went down to a 4-1 defeat at AFC Sudbury. Gareth Heath opened the scoring after just 9 minutes by putting the hosts in front only for Steve Wales to equalise after 17 minutes. But Danny Bloomfield on 34 minutes and Heath again right on half time gave the home side a 3-1 advantage to take into half time. And they ensured victory 16 minutes from time with a Craig Hughes effort.
Bury close the gap
January 2: Three goals in an eleven minute spell each side of the interval were enough to give Bury Town a 3-0 victory at Soham Town and to maintain their title challenge.The deadlock was broken after 39 minutes. Craig Radcliffe was allowed to run at the Soham defence before releasing Lee Reed who slipped the ball past the ‘keeper. Only three minutes later Bury increased their lead when following a slick build up down the right, Russell Short found Lee Underwood who made no mistake from close range.After the break, Sam Reed got clear of the defence only to see his effort deflected wide. However from the resultant corner the ball fell to his feet and he hooked the ball home from six yards after 50 minutes.
Arlesey held in Trophy
December 12: Arlesey out-played Zamaretto Premier Division Chippenham Town for much of the 90 minute but were held 1-1 in the FATrophy this afternoon.
Blues were without three regulars but they did have Martyn Patching back between the posts. Despite their first half dominance, Arlesey conceded in the 23rd minute when a quickly taken throw-in was flicked on by the visitors' James Martin and luckless Blues skipper Derek Brown steered the ball into his own net. But ten minutes later it was all square when man of the match Craig Reynolds' inswinging corner kick flew directly into the Chippenham net without anyone else getting a touch.
Late goal saves Slough
December 12: Chris Herron's 84th minute volley ensured Slough avoided a second successive home defeat as Romulus left Holloways Park with a well-deserved point after twice taking the lead. Twice Romulus took the lead, after 11 minutes (Munday) and Fagan (55).But Simon Martin equalised after 45 and Herron netted six minutes from time to earn a point, but drop Slough to second place.
Bottom sides in stalemate
December 12: Aylesbury had to make do with a point having engineered themselves a winning position.The match at Barton Rovers certainly fulfilled expectations of being a hard fought clash short on quality. Both sides had their moments in the first half with the highlights Jack Sillitoe making a fine penalty save. It looked like the Ducks had nicked the winner when Tyrone Taylor netted after 73 minutes.. But Barton had the last laugh when they equalised with seven minutes remaining through Russell Bull.
Late penalty wins it for Bury
December 12: An 88th minute penalty by Ben Coker gave Bury a 2-1 win at Marlow and sent them to within one point of the top of the table. Bury controlled the first half, with Craig Radcliff scoring a well taken goal on 16 mins. Marlow equalised after 55 minutes through Romeo. Bury where awarded a penalty two minutes from time - and Marlow reduced to 10 men in the process - and Coker scored with ease.
Slough knocked off the top
December 5: Bury Town kept their challenge for the Zamaretto Midlands league title with a deserved victory over Slough Town at Holloways Park. After having much the better of the first half, the Suffolk side took the lead on 57 minutes through Sam Reed, and despite a late rally, Slough could not find a way past Marcus Garnham in the Bury goal.
Burnham bounce back in style
December 5: Burnham got back to winning ways with a comprehensive 4-1 win at Stourport Swifts today. Jamie Insall put the hosts in front on 31 minutes with Adrian Sear equalising on 40 minutes. Craig O'Connor pounced on a keeper error a minute after the break with Ryan Bird adding to the score on 63 minutes and Jordan Dowdican scoring on 88 minutes to complete a good second period.
Late flurry sinks Bromsgrove
December 5: Bromsgrove went down by the odd goal in five against AFC Sudbury. The visitors took a first half lead through Craig Hughes, but in the 55th minute, Jake Findlay levelled for Rovers. Two goals in the pace of three minutes gave Sudbury the advantage, netted by Kevin Hawes (80) and Danny Bloomfield (82), but Bromsgrove added another through Danny Scheppel on 83 mins. There was another blow for the home side when Marlon Walters was sent off.
Burnham stunned
November 28: Burnham’s unbeaten start to the season ended in dramatic fashion as Sutton Coldfield hit them for five on their own patch. Burnham had no less than three men sent off. Craig Marshall (penalty) and Jamil Matt gave the visitors a half time lead before Ryan Bird reduced the arrears early in the second half. Matthew Dodd, Ed Booth and James Quiggan then added to the score with Paul Brett and Stuart Swift both dismissed for double cautions and David Tilbury getting a red card in the last minute for a late challenge.
Goals galore again with Soham
November 28: Soham Town Rangers, who came from 4-0 down to draw last week, reversed the situation this week, going into a four-goal lead before drawing with Woodford. Soham scored all four goals in the opening 26 minutes - Luke Carnell (13), Dubi Ogbonna (17) and two from Deakan Napier (24, 26). Glenn Hawkins pulled one back after 39 minutes and went on to score a hat-trick with further goals on 61 and 74 minutes. Woodford’s recovery was completed by Lewis Travers in the 88th minute.
Slough bang on form
November 28: Title aspirants Slough went nap at Aylesbury with a 5-2 win. Two goals apiece from Nathan Bowden-Haase and Elliot Buchanan and another from Danny Murphy were enough to consign the Ducks to yet another heavy home defeat. It if wasn’t for Aylesbury keeper Jack Sillitoe, Slough’s win may have been even more impressive. Aylesbury hald a public meeting after the game and fans heard of the clubs two pronged plan to get the ducks back to playing football in Aylesbury again, sooner rather than later. The first includes a link up with Sporting Solutions to produce a feasibility study outlining plans to develop a sports stadia on the site at the rear of Aylesbury College, the second scenario would see United take steps to invoke the ten year agreement to ground share at Haywoods Way with Aylesbury FC with the help of AVDC.
Surprise win for Barton
November 28: Barton Rovers picked up a 1-0 win at AFC Sudbury, with a winning goal from former Hitchin striker Ricky Case. In a poor first half, Richard Wilmot kept Barton at bay and the mediocrity continued into the second period. Barton increasingly looked the likelier to score and in the 76th minute, Case seized on a defelction to fire home. Sudbury went close in the final seconds, but Danny Bloomfield was thwarted by Aaron Fletcher.
Blues through in Surrey
November 21: Arlesey Town booked their place in the next round of the FA Trophy with a comfortable 3-0 win a Godalming Town this afternoon. The Blues were 2-0 up at the interval in this third round qualifying tie thanks to skipper Derek Brown's fourth minute opener and assistant manager Zema Abbey's 21st minute strike. And it was former Hitchin man Abbey who secured the victory with his second just after the hour for 3-0 to ensure that his side were in the first round draw.
Steele strikes late
November 21: An 83rd minute strike by substitute Jamie Steele was enough for Biggleswade Town to make it six games unbeaten and beat Atherstone Town 1-0 at soggy Carlsberg Stadium. The Waders thoroughly deserved the three points after dominating the first 45 minutes when they might have gone in at the break three or four goals to the good. However when Steele replaced Dan Heron in the 77th minute, he had touched the ball just once before slamming a left footed volley into net.
Slough move up to second
November 21: Second-half goals from winger Steve Sinclair and debutant Sean Sonner helped Slough claim three valuable points against Bedworth United side.
The Rebels went in front on fifty-nine minutes. Defender Dean Harper found Sinclair wide on the right, and with Bevan well outside his area the winger lobbed the goalkeeper to grab his second-goal in as many games. On seventy-three minutes Slough wrapped-up the points when Paul Edgeworth found himself clean through on goal. Just as it looked as though he would shoot he unselfishly pushed the ball into the path of Sonner who slid home Slough's second-goal of the match.
Worcester too much for Burnham
November 21: Burnham bowed out of the FA Trophy with this narrow reverse at Blue Square Conference South Worcester City. Worcester started the second half strongly and Dinsmore saw his shot deflected for a corner before on 54 minutes against the run of play Burnham went ahead. They were awarded a free kick on the right which Stuart Swift floated in to the back post where Adrian Sear headed down and past keeper Meredith. It took just one minute for the home team to equalise, slack marking by Burnham allowed Matt Birley to fire in hard and low from 12 yards. The winning goal came in the 76th minute following a good City build up the lively Dinsmore fired in a shot that hit the upright and rebounded across goal to the unmarked Craig Wilding who had a simple task to net from close in.
Leighton let four-goal lead slip
November 21: Leighton Town threw away a four-goal lead to draw with struggling Soham Town Rangers. Leighton went into a 4-0 lead inside 20 minutes, with Gallant scoring a hat-trick inside seven minutes. But Soham pulled one back through Carter on 37 minutes and added further goals from Ogbonna (54), Simpson (63) and Hipwell (88) to earn a tremendous draw.
Stourport thrash Beaconsfield
November 14: Stourport Swifts hit Beaconsfield for six at Holloways Park this afternoon. The Swifts were kept at bay until the 44th minute when Dean Whittle-Williams opened for the scoring.Julian Triana doubled for the visitors on 51 minutes and then Richard Tompkins netted direct from a corner kick on the hour. Jamie Insal, whose tireless running played a large part in Stourport’s second half success, then won a penalty that Mark Benbow converted on 63 minutes. Chris added a fifth on 74 minutes. Dan Polan rounded the Rams keeper in the final minute after Alex Lavery’s through ball.
Another defeat for Slough - home joy for Adders
November 14: Atherstone ended their home problems with a deserved win over Slough Town. After a goalless first half, Adders took the lead in the 55th minute when Luke Keen cut in from the right and made two strong challenges teeing up Dean Rathbone for a three-yard tap-in. The second came from a 73rd minute penalty after a late challenge on Stuart Hendrie. Grant Roscorla stepped up to plant a low shot past former Hitchin keeper Ricky Perks.
Comfortable for Chessmen
November 14: Chesham overcame a hardworking Woodford side to earn a comfortable 3-0 win. Chesham took the lead in the twelfth minute. Leon Archer broke down the left and was heading for the by-line when he was upended by keeper Joe Haynes, and the referee gave a penalty. Steve Wales’ spot-kick just beat Haynes who got a touch on the ball but could not keep it out. In spite of the wind disadvantage Chesham carried the greater threat in the remainder of the half, although both sides struggled in the conditions. In 70th minute Chesham killed the game off with a second goal. Steve Wales’ ball forward was laid off by Chris Bangura into the path of Leon Archer who beat Haynes with a neat finish from 15 yards. Steve Wales wrapped up the scoring six minutes from time with a fine solo goal.
Arlesey up to fifth, despite Abbey's red card
November 14: Arlesey made easy work of struggling Aylesbury, but lost Zema Abbey late in the game to a red card. The gale force winds combined with downpours meant it was always going to be a tough afternoon for both sides. The Ducks had the wind in their favour for the first half but couldn't put it to good use and eventually fell behind when ex-United player Chris Marsh netted. The lead lasted just two minutes when Ashley Harewood hit a thunderbolt shot to send the teams in level at the break. Within a killer 10 minute spell the game was all over for Aylesbury. Marsh got away down the left and centred for Nathan Frater to sweep into the net. Minutes later Arlesey scored a carbon copy, and even though they had to play the last quarter with ten men after Zema Abbey's dismissal, the game was out of Aylesbury's reach. Arlesey added a fourth through Reynolds with the last kick of the match to make the final score 4-1.
Late goal saves a point for Blues
November 7: Arlesey Town grabbed a point five minutes from time thanks to a Mark Leach goal at Woodford United. The Blues led after just one minute when Chris Marsh netted for Gary King’s side. But Woodford came back strongly, with goals from Parman (34) and a penalty from Hawkins (60). Arlesey, who slipped up in midweek against Bedworth, responded well and it was left to Leach to secure the draw.
Slough hit form, break the Bones
November 7: Slough Town underlined their promotion credentials with a thumping 4-1 win against high-flying Rothwell Town. The visitors opened the scoring through Kevin Byrne after six minutes, but by half-time, Tommy Hayes (22) and Leon Hibbert (40), had given Slough the lead. Further goals from Rob Kean (67) and Dean Harper (69), stunned the Bones and sent Slough up to third place.
Burnham held at home
November 7: Leighton surprised unbeaten Burnham at the Gore in a tight game that ended 1-1. Leighton went ahead on 28 minutes when a corner on the right from Goss was not cleared by the Burnham defence and as the ball ricocheted around their area the ball struck James McNulty and crossed the line. The equaliser came in the 45th minute, Leighton conceded a free kick, which they hotly disputed, just outside the area on the right. Stuart Swift delivered a precise ball to the far post where Burnham skipper Paul Brett dived to head into the net.
Late winner beats Romulus
November 7: Bury Town came back from Coles Lane, Sutton Coldfield with all three points from their match with Romulus. Nick Davey put Blues ahead in the fourth minute. The hardwork of the first half was undone when Romulus drew level straight after the half time break through Brown. Lee Reed came off the bench to score an important winner with 13 minutes to go to give Bury an important win.
Rothwell go back to top of table
October 31: Rothwell ran riot against Aylesbury United to reclaim top spot in the Zamaretto League Divison One Midlands. Goals from Brett Darby (28), Robbie Maddox (45), Kev Byrne (65), and a brace from Jon Stevenson (88, 90) fired Rothwell back to the top of the table today.
Abbey sees Arlesey through
October 31: In a repeat scoreline from the 1995 FA Vase final Oxford City were defeated 2-1 at Arlesey Town in a FA Trophy tie ruined by some dreadful officiating. A depleted Oxford were missing key players Malone(Suspended), Knight(Injury), Bell & Brooks(Illness) but still took the lead on 9 minutes when Andy Baird was well spotted to crash home a header but Arlesey hit back straight from kick off and with their next attack they made the scores 1-1 through Derwayne Stupple. Midway through the first half Andy Baird saw the red card for the second week running when as the last man a slight clash of feet with the Arlesey attacker forced the official to dismiss him. The second half saw City awarded a strange penalty but Steeles penalty was well saved by the Arlesey stopper. Arlesey wrapped up the tie on 86 minutes when substitute and assistant manager Zema Abbey fired home.
Burnham all-square
October 31: Burnham fought out a 1-1 draw at Croydon Athletic this afternoon in the FA Trophy. Two fairly well matched sides earned the replay at The Gore on Tuesday evening. Adrian Sear opened the scoring for Burnham on 69 minutes only for the hosts to level things through Justin Gregory on 79 minutes.
Arlesey go nap
October 24: Three former Hitchin players were on the scoresheet as Arlesey underlined their title credentials with an emphatic 5-0 win against local rivals Barton. The Blues hammered four past Barton in a one-sided first period - and it could have been more! Luke Gregson (7) and Parys Okai (13)scored early on for Arlesey and Gregson got his second after 16 minutes. Another ex-Hitchin man, Moses Olaleye added a fourth on the stroke of half-time. There was another blow for Barton when Joel Mason was sent off in the second period, and to make matters worse, Russell Bull missed a penalty. Arlesey's fourth came from an Ashley Daniels own goal on 88 minutes.
Burnham held at Soham
October 24: Burnham kept their unbeaten run going but lost the Midland Division leadership after drawing 1-1 at Soham Town Rangers. Ryan Bird gave Burnham the lead on 18 minutes, but just before half-time, the home side levelled. A well delivered through-ball from Michael Simpson was converted by Dubi Ogbonna to find the back of the net. A first-class finish with the right foot from inside the penalty area.
Atherstone beaten by late spot-kick
October 24: Atherstone were ‘mugged’ by an 88th minute penalty as Beaconsfield left the Midlands with a 2-1 win.They were on top and pressing for the winner when Beaconsfield broke away and when winger Trevor Charlery cut inside defender Tom Guiney he was brought down and Dean Clark drilled in the spot kick. The visitors should have been dead and buried long before as Adders created chance after chance but lacked the killer instinct in front of goal. Luke Edwards was the culprit in chief, wasting at least five clear scoring opportunities.
Slough come back to win
October 24: Slough twice came from behind to beat Stourport Swifts 3-2.Twice Stourport took the lead, on 27 minutes through Insall and Polan on 65. Elliott Buchanan's goals in the 42nd and 81st minutes, brough Slough level, before Leon Hibbert powered home a late header to secure Steve Bateman's side all three points.
Bedworth cup runs ends at York
October 24: York City reached the First Round proper of the FA Cup after an easy 2-0 win at Bootham Crescent against Bedworth. First half goals from Michael Rankine and Richard Brodie killed off any chance of an upset. In the 8th minute the Minstermen settled any underlying nerves with a solo goal from Michael Rankine. The former Rushden striker found plenty of space, cut in from the left and drilled a low shot past Bedworth ‘keeper David Bevan. City's second goal came in the 42nd minute. Purkiss was given all the time in the world to cross from the right onto the head of Brodie who nodded home from six yards.
Barton stage comeback
October 17: Horsham face a long midweek trek to Bedfordshire after throwing away a three-goal lead against Barton Rovers this afternoon in an incredible FA Trophy tie at Gorings Mead. The Hornets looked to be coasting to victory after recovering from the shock of Russell Bull's 7th minute opener and led 4-1 after 20 minutes, thanks to goals from Gary Charman (2), Sam Page and Claude Seanla. Bull reduced the arrears with his second, minutes later, and that's the way it stayed until Richard Pringle made it 4-3 with 18 minutes remaining. In a dramatic finale, Charman was dismissed for handling the ball on the goal-line and Ricky Case scored the resulting penalty to send the teams back to Sharpenhoe Road on Tuesday night.
Blues through at Casuals
October 17: Arlesey Town booked their place in Monday's second round qualifying FA Trophy draw with a 3-0 win away to Corinthian Casuals in front of just 80 spectators. Chris Marsh gave them a 36th minute lead from the penalty spot while Nathan Frater and Leach scored the other two midway throurgh the second half.
Waders held
October 17: Chipstead arrived at the Carlsberg Stadium without a league win and currently bottom of the Ryman's Div 1 South table. Chipstead played some good football and it was no more than the visitors deserved when they opened the scoring in the 23rd minute when Savage slotted a cross low into the net. Biggleswade scored an equaliser in the 39th minute when under pressure from Glen Lamacraft, Nathan Campbell managed to score an own goal. The Waders showed a little more in the 2nd period, but it was Savage again in the 68th min to put Chipstead in the driving seat when he scored a well worked goal, but just 2mins later James Freshwater converted a three-man move to send the tie to a replay. John Gray
All square at Sudbury
October 17: Sudbury shared six goals with struggling Billericay in an exciting Trophy tie. Kevin Hawes headed Sudbury ahead after four minutes, but Lawrence Yiga, who had a brief spell with Hitchin a few years back, levelled for the Essex side on 15 minutes. Billericay then went ahead on 26 minutes, Bricknell breaking a scoring with a fine finish. By the interval, Sudbury were level Mike Fitzgibbon marking his debut by scoring from close range. On fifty-two minutes Billericay were gifted the lead. Danny Brown sliced a clearance and then passed back to Richard Wilmot who had little time to affect a clearance. His kick went straight to James Baker who scored easily. With three minutes to go, Gareth Heath scored directly from a corner to send the tie to Billericay.
Slough fightback but lose...Chesham shock defeat
October 10: Slough Town went out of the FA Cup this afternoon at Tooting, but made a fight of it, losing 3-2. Tooting went in at half-time 2-0 ahead, thanks to goals from Vines (24) and Goode (29). Slough fell further behind in the 55th minute when Byatt added a third goal. But Steve Bateman's title favourites put on a stirring second period display, scoring from Nathan Bowde-Haase (67) and Elliott Buchanan. Meanwhile, at Spartan South Midlands League Aylesbury, Chesham were beaten 4-3.
Abbey clinches victory for Arlesey
October 10: Two second half goals gave Arlesey a 2-0 win against Romulus and moved the Blues up to second in the Midland Division table. Steve Sinclair netted after 47 minutes and Zema Abbey added a second in the 74th. The crowd was swelled to 121 as a number of Hitchin fans made the short trip up to Arlesey after the Canaries' friendly with Harrow.
Ducks beaten in nine-goal thriller at Stourport
October 10: A spirited Aylesbury United were edged out of a 5-4 thriller at Walshes Meadow. Falling two goals behind inside the first ten minutes, United were level by scoring twice themselves in the last ten of the first half through Harewood-Williams (42) and Dean (45). They went better still when Harewood-Williams (52) gave them the lead with a stunning strike soon after the restart. Half an hour always looked a long time for Aylesbury to hold on though and so it proved as Swifts levelled and then went on to take the lead. They added a further goal to their tally as United were caught stretched, before Moses reduced the arrears deep in stoppage time.
Bedworth sneak through, draws for others
October 10: Bedworth saw off Coventry Sphinx in the FA Cup this afternoon, winning 1-0 against one of the competition's surprise sides. The Greenbacks' only goal came from Blair after 67 minutes.
Bury Town were held at home by Bedford Town 1-1 and Sutton Coldfield have to replay after drawing 0-0 with Lowestoft.
Shock for Bury
October 3: Bury Town have been knocked out of the FA Trophy with a 2-1 defeat at Croydon Athletic. The first half was goalless, but Croydon found the net twice in the second half to take control. Bury hit back a minute later through Sam Reed's header but they could not find an equaliser and Athletic now go onto host Ashford Town (Middx) in the 1st Qualifying Round.
Waders win first Trophy tie
October 3: Biggleswade Town went through 2-1 against Ryman League side Tilbury in their preliminary round tie in front of just 73 supporters. The home side went ahead through Taylor on 17 minutes and while it remained 1-0 at the break, the Waders finally levelled on the hour through Bobby Dance with Dan Heron making a welcome return to action following a lengthy injury and bagging the winner 13 minutes later.
Ducks season goes from bad to worse
October 3: Aylesbury went out of the FA Trophy after a 2-1 defeat at Midlands Division rivals Beaconsfield SYCOB. The Rams deservedly lead at half time courtesy of Gary Senior's goal and but for a great Sillitoe save would have doubled their lead after a first period where Aylesbury were barely in the game. An early free kick goal then appeared to put the game well beyond the Ducks. But there was something of a mini resurgence and Joe Oxley scored to give a bit of hope to the travelling supporters. But there was no revival and the Ducks dreadful season continues.
Burnham through in a thriller
October 3: In a five goal second half, Burnham went through by 3-2 at North Leigh. The game sprang to life within minutes of the interval. Burnham took the lead on 48 minutes when Robbie Saunders converted from the penalty spot. Burnham doubled their lead two as an unmarked Ryan Bird headed home from Stuart Swift's free-kick. North Leigh's fightback began with fifteen minutes remaining as a Chris Allen corner fell to Dodds and his rising shot found the top corner, and five minutes later they made it 2-2 as another Allen corner was headed home by Andrew Helby. The game was decided when referee Sarah Garrett deemed Allen's elbow to have been deliberate handball inside the area from an innocuous cross, and Saunders kept his composure to convert his second penalty and fire Burnham into the next round.
Rothwell go top of table
September 26: Rothwell Town went top of the Zamaretto Midland Division with an emphatic 4-0 win at Biggleswade Town. The Bones went in at half-time 3-0 ahead at the Carlsberg Stadium thanks to goals from Hallows (7), Flanagan (34) and Julian (40) and completed the rout with a 68th minute goal from Stevenson. Rothwell remain unbeaten and are three points ahead of Hitchin, who have played two games less.
Ten goal thriller at Leighton
September 26: A sensational game at Leighton ended in a 6-4 win for the home side against struggling AFC Sudbury. Sudbury were three goals down after ten minutes thanks goals from Gallant (2, 8) and Hatch (9) but by half-time it was 4-3, with Jack Defty scoring twice for Sudbury and snother from Heath. Defty went on to claim his hat-trick but Fennemore and Gallant scored for the home side to record a memorable win and send Leighton up to third.
Six go into the hat for Monday's draw
September 26: Five Zamaretto Midland sides are in the draw for the FA Cup qualifying round, although Burnham and Bury Town both have to face replayed before they claim their place in the next round. Romulus went out 2-1 at Bedford, for whom former Hitchin man Aaran Cavill was on the scoresheet. Chesham, following their oustanding win at Top Field, beat Billericay 4-2 at the Meadow, with midfielder Steve Wales scoring twice. Slough Town eased past Concord 2-0, while Sutton Coldfield beat ambitious Needham Market 3-0. Bury had to rely on a 90th minute penalty from Ben Coker to draw 2-2 at Matlock, while Burnham were denied in the last minute by an Aveley equaliser. Bedworth beat Rainworth Miners Welfare 2-1.
First away win for Blues
September 19: Arlesey Town picked up their first away win of the season when they beat struggling Beaconsfield SYCOB this afternoon. Former Hitchin youngster Nathan Frater opened the scoring after seven minutes and Jamie Osbourne, returned to Hitchin Road after his spell at Wealdstone, netted a second eight minutes from time. The home side pulled one back from the penalty spot through Osubu two minutes from the final whistle. Beaconsfield have lost all their home games this season.
Waders lose home records
September 19: Biggleswade Town lost their unbeaten home record when they went down 2-3 against Marlow at the Carlsberg Stadium.The Waders went a goal behind after 29 minutes when Johnny Isaac netted for the visitors. Four minutes later, Kevin Cooper levelled, but early in the second half, Marlow went back in front through giant front-man Alex Stewart and then Jermaine Roche added another in the 53rd minute. Waders skipper and former Hitchin man Liam Folds pulled one back five minutes from time.
Barton secure first win
September 19: Barton Rovers picked up their first league win of the season when they beat Bedworth 5-2 this afternoon. Four of the goals came from former Hitchin men, Joel Mason and Russell Bull scored two apiece. Barton went in at half-toime, 3-0 ahead, and it was only a late flurry from Bedworth that added some respectability to the scoreline. The crowd was 1-2.
Bury shock the Linnets
September 12: Bury Town pulled off one of the shocks of the first qualifying round by beating Kings Lynn 2-0 at Ram Meadow. Although the visitors were the favourites, they did not live up to their own expectations and had goalkeeper Danny Gay to thank for keeping the score down. Both sides hit the woodwork in the first half, but once Johnson opened the scoring ithere was only one winner. Kings Lynn were hoping to build on a rich tradition of reaching The FA Cup proper, having got as far as the Second Round in the past.
Stormy cup tie at Arlesey
September 12: Arlesey were beaten by the odd goal in three at Hitchin Road in a game that contained some controversial incidents. Wealdstone took the lead after 22 minutes when Blues skipper Derek Brown brought down Greg Ngoyi and Ryan Ashe scored from the penalty spot. Arlesey had Wealdstone worried for long periods in the second half and Chris March equalised after 65 minutes with a long range effort.
From the restart, Ngoyi found himself free and on-side with only Patching to beat and despite his initial hesitation to confirm his legality he restored Wealdstone's lead to huge protests from the home side one of which resulted in a booking for dissent.
Stones lost Charlie Mpi late in the game to a sending off amid complaints from the Wealdstone side that Adam Turner had simulated an injury.
Second half show from Rebels
September 5: Slough Town put on a superb second half show to beat Biggleswade Town 4-2 at Beaconsfield. Paul Edgeworth put Slough ahead after 54 minutes and former Hitchin winger Tyron Sealey made it 2-0 four minutes later. James Hall pulled one back before Edgeworth and Steve Sinclair extended Slough's lead. Another ex-Hitchin man, Glen Lamacraft netted from the penalty spot with the last kick of the game. Final score 4-2.
Bury go nap
September 5: Bury underlined their promotion credentials with an emphatic win against Beaconsfield SYCOB. Debutant Kieron Leabon and Ben Coker scored two goals with antoher from Lee Reed. SYCOB's response came from Charlie Hill. The game was held up for 30 minutes owing to a serious injury to Bury's Russell Short. To see a video of this game, click here
Arlesey hang on for a point
September 5: Arlesey and Bromsgrove fought out a tame goalless draw at Hitchin Road this afternoon. Arlesey had the better of the opening 45 minutes and could have scored when Olalaye hit the inside of the post after 35 minutes, the ball being cleared to safety. Almost on half time, Abbey, who was unmarked, should have scored from an Adam Turner corner when he missed his header. Bromsgrove looked dangerous on the break and Mark Owen went close on several occasions.Early in the second half, Arlesey's Chris Marsh received a straight red from the referee for an off-the-ball incident with Bromsgrove's Jones who was lucky to escape with no booking. This changed the game and Arlesey's attacking force was seen less and less. Bromsgrove came more into the game but never created any chances. Neither goalkeeper was rarely troubled throughout the 90 mnutes. JTG
Ducks hunted again
September 5: A last minute goal meant Aylesbury United were beaten by the odd goal in seven against Atherstone Town. The Ducks had needed all of their attacking flair to battled back from an two-goal deficit handed to their hosts early on, and had even taken the lead in the second half before eventually falling to defeat. Lewis (6) and Roscoria (22) gave the Adders a 2-0 lead, but goals from Ryan Bernard and Dean Thomas levelled before the break. Chris Dean gave the Ducks the lead in the 55 minute. But United lost their stronghold on the game, and Atherstone equalised through Sturridge-Parker on 60 minutes. The winner came from Edwards, leaving Aylesbury on the bottom of the table with zero points from four games.
Dramatic comeback foils Swifts
August 29: Stourport Swifts threw away a 4-0 lead to end up drawing at Coventry Sphinx. The Swifts went one-nil up after seven minutes through Jones and further goals by Jukes (18), Joyce (26) and Wood (35) gave them what looked like an unstoppable lead. Coventry responded with three goals before the break, however, with Murdoch netting two (41 and 45) and Fisher one (44). Shell-shocked Swifts were pegged back to level terms in the 55th minute through Donaldson.
Chesham ease through
August 29: Chesham United disposed of local rivals Chalfont St.Peter with two first half goals. United striker Darrell Cox had an early chance to score, but he made no mistake after 22 minutes.Saints midfielder Adam Louth nearly pulled his side level when he lobbed over Underwood but had his head in hands as the ball fell onto the roof of the net. But the tie was clinched just before half-time when Archer ran through to make it 2-0.
Slough set up Hemel tie
August 29: Two goals from Danny Jordan helped Slough beat Tring Athletic to set up an away tie at manager Steve Bateman’s former club Hemel Hempstead in the First Qualifying Round. Slough broke the deadlock with nineteen minutes played. O’Connor beat the Tring right-back and his cross-shot from the left fell to Tyron Sealey, who picked out the top corner through a crowded area. Tring were reduced to ten men after half an hour, defender Hall penalised for an over-the-top tackle on Paul Edgeworth.
Nathan Bowden-Haase found the back of the net, doubling the Rebels’ lead a minute before half-time. The game was settled as a contest on 57 minutes as Danny Jordan glanced in a near post header from a Craig O’Connor cross. Jordan added a fourth goal with five minutes remaining, firing past Mazurek at the second attempt after Sinclair had engineered a cross from the right flank.
Hitchin old boys beat Hatfield
August 29: Goals from Moses Olaleye and Zema Abbey sent Arlesey through to the next round of the FA Cup against Hatfield Town. The duo struck in the 40th and 41st minutes respectively in a game that the Blues should have won more convincingly. A crowd of 147 saw the game.
Whipping boys Barton
August 22: Barton Rovers made it 12 goals conceded in three games as they were thrashed by Slough 5-1. Two goals apiece from Tommy Hayes and Steve Sinclair, and a penalty from Simon Martin, gave Slough a resounding first win of the season, though the margin of victory could have been even greater.
Former Canary on target for Blues
August 22: Former Hitchin striker Jon Barnett scored both of Arlesey's goals in a 2-0 win against Atherstone. Both goals came in the second half and were not from open play. Barnett scored from the penalty spot just after the interval and in the 80th minute he netted his second with a superb free kick. Barnett is one of a number of former Hitchin players turning out at Arlesey - Nathan Frater, another ex-youth academy lad, scored twice for Arlesey in midweek.
Aylesbury capitulate
August 22: A defensive horror-show cost Aylesbury dearly as they were comprehensively beaten 0-4 by Soham Town Rangers in their first home game. For the second week running, the Ducks were 3-0 behind at the interval having conceded two early goals: all three very cheaply conceded. Nathan, Ogbonna and Simpson all score dbefore the break. Despite the scoreline, Aylesbury had a number of chances. But instead of pulling a goal back this time, Aylesbury's defence switched off again allowing visitors to grab a fourth through Burnell, despite having been reduced to ten men.
Beaconsfield bounce back
August 22: A brace from Charlie Hill gave Beaconsfield SYCOB their first points of the season with a 2-0 away win at AFC Sudbury. Hill, who trained with Hitchin during the close season, netted in the seventh and 77th minutes of the game.
Goal fest at Atherstone
August 15: The most exciting game of the day was Bury Town’s sensational 6-3 win at Atherstone. The visitors went into a 3-0 lead inside 33 minutes, Coker (2) and Tidswell 8 and 33) scoring the goals. The Adders came back well with goals from Hayward (45) and Edwards (57 and 58) brought them level. But a three –goal salvo by Bury, Tidswell (62), Reed (70) and Short (88) sealed the points. Andy Tidswell became the first player in the Midlands Division to score a hat-trick this season.
Drama at Burnham as Arlesey are held
August 15: Arlesey were held 0-0 by Burnham in an incident-packed game. Burnham had Will Dunlop sent off after an incident involving former Hitchin defender Ollie Thorne. Arlesey had their chances to win, with Derwayne Stupple wasting his opportunity after Zema Abbey had set him up. In the second half, Abbey hit the crossbar with a chip. Arlesey received a setback when defender Jack Nelly was carried off with a broken leg, holding up the game for 30 minutes. Arlesey also included in their line-up Moses Olaleye, who also had a brief spell with Hitchin.
Ducks beaten by Waders
August 15: Aylesbury's new look line-up lost their opening day encounter 3-1 at Biggleswade Town.
Jim Steele gave the Waders the lead after eight minutes, and Freshwater (33) and Weedon (43) made it 3-0 by half-time. As expected, the Ducks side was made up entirely of debutants and it showed with the team short on understanding throughout. Aylesbury pulled a goal back three minutes from time through Ashleigh James. Just 150 people watched the game.
Slough slip up
August 15: Slough conceded two second half goals to throw away an early two-goal lead at Sutton Coldfield.
Goals from debutants Nathan Bowden-Haase (11) and Paul Edgeworth (19) in the first twenty minutes had given the Rebels a flying start. But a penalty from Moran after 66 minutes and a second goal from Booth afte 72 gave the home side a point. Slough included Ricky Perks, Tommy Hayes and Rob Kean in their starting line-up.
Slough capture Martin and Murphy
August 8: Slough Town have announced their squad for the new season and it includes some well known names and seasoned veterans. Included in Steve Bateman's selection are former St.Albans striker Simon Martin and full back Danny Murphy, who has been training with Hitchin. Familar Bateman acolytes Edgewirth, Herron, Sinclair, Sippetts and Lawford are also in the squad. Ex-Hitchin players Tyron Sealey, Rob Kean and Ricky Perks will also line up for the homeless Rebels, who will play at Beaconsfield this season.
Wilmot joins AFC Sudbury
August 8: Hitchin goalkeeper Richard Wilmot has signed for AFC Sudbury in a surprise about-turn. Wilmot signed on for Hitchin and intended to finish his career at Top Field. But in a dramatic twist, the popular Wilmot has decided to join the Suffolk club, managed by fellow policeman Nicky Smith.
Blow for Waders
August 8: Biggleswade received a blow to their pre-season plans when they were beaten 1-6 at home by Concord Rangers at the Carlsberg Stadium. Concord took control in the fourth minute through a Danny Heale strike. On 15 minutes, Concord Rangers increased their lead as a header by Lyle Taylor took a deflection leaving goalkeeper Dean Bull stranded. The Waders pulled one back befor e the break when Bobby Dance set up Jamie Steele who turned and fired home. Concord scored four more in the second period, with Heale netting two more to secure his hat-trick and Cowley and Sweeney adding one apiece.
Rothwell strengthen their squad
July 6: Rothwell manager Rob Dunion has unveiled five new defenders and a goalkeeper in his first summer signings. Former Corby Town men Dominic Hallows, Tom Guiney and Steve Julian have arrived at Cecil Street from Stamford, Atherstone Town and S&L respectively. Paul Rice returns to the club from Desborough Town and youngster Alex Phillips, who can play at the back or in midfield, has joined from the Rushden & Diamonds academy. The new man between the sticks is another from Corby, Lee Crockett, who joins direct from the Steelmen and the Rockingham Triangle influence continues in midfield with the arrival of Brett Darby from Unibond League side Quorn. The eighth new addition is another midfielder, Chris Goodman from Midland Alliance side Barwell.
Slough to return home?
June 28: Slough Town are to submit a revised proposal to Slough Borough Council's overview and scrutiny panel next month to develop the Arbour Vale site next to The West Wing in Stoke Road.The homecoming would end years of misery for loyal fans who have seen their favourites play at a variety of grounds, including Wexham, Windsor and Beaconsfield. The club currently ground-shares with Beaconsfield SYCOB at Holloways Park, in Slough Road.
Sudbury pull off a coup
June 28: AFC Sudbury believe they have pulled off a coup this week after landing highly rated Colchester United teenager Perry Sansford. The 18-year-old striker was released by the League One club in April but Sudbury manager Nicky Smith believes the tall targetman will be a hit at King's Marsh."I am more than happy after signing Perry," said Smith. "He is a quick and powerful forward and I am sure he will fit in."
Adders to name new boss
June 2: Atherstone Town are on the brink of naming a new manager after Jimmy Ginnelly was sacked following the club’s play-off defeat by Chasetown. Chairman Adie Burr has a big list of candidates to choose from, but Ginnelly’s former assistant, Dale Belford, has ruled himself out of the running. Former Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Graham Hyde is among the favourites for the job, but others include Lee Glover, Tony Hemmings and Steve Farmer. Ginnelly, meanwhile, has told local media that the future is bleak for the Adders after his dismissal.
Deeney joins Corby
May 20: Former Hitchin defender David Deeney has joined Corby Town as the Steelmen prepare for life in the Blue Square South. Deeney, who left Hitchin in 2008, had one season with Hemel Hempstead.
Vines pays the price
May 11: Farnborough manager Francis Vines has paid the price for failing to take his club into the Blue Square South. Following Farnborough’s home defeat in the play-offs, at the hands of Gloucester, Vines and his management team were shown the door by the club. Farnborough claim it was not solely down to missing out on promotion, but also a desire to have more entertaining football at Cherrywood Road. Vines was in the job just one season, taking over after Farnborough won promotion to the Premier.They lost just five games in 42 in the league.
Ducks to Leighton
May 11: Aylesbury United will groundshare at Leighton Town in 2009-10 after their existing agreement with Chesham United broke down. Aylesbury’s offer to Chesham was deemed unacceptable by the club, so the Ducks sought a new ground. Meanwhile, Aylesbury continue to see a new home in their own town. One solution tabled was a ground share at Haywoods Way.
April 25: Over 1,900 people saw Corby lift the BGB Premier title with a stunning 5-0 win against relegated Banbury United. Leon Mettam put the home side in front a minute before half-time. Steve Towers doubled the lead on the hour and Mettam made sure of the title 15 minutes from time. Corby then netted two goals from Joe Francis, the first after a great run through the Banbury defence on 77 minutes and the second a tap-in from Steve Diggin's cross two minutes from time. Meanwhile, Farnborough won 3-0 at Stourbridge and finished runners-up - they will face Hemel Hempstead in the play-off. Gloucester will face Cambridge City in the other game.
April 25: Hemel Hempstead clinched their play-off place after beating fellow challengers Gloucester at Vauxhall Road.
Drew Roberts gave Hemel the lead after seven minutes but two minutes later, Jack Pitcher levelled for the visitors. Hemel's winning goal came from Anthony Thomas, who netted after 36 minutes. The game drew 684 people to Hemel.
April 25: Clevedon avoided relegation despite losing their final match of the season, to complete a remarkable turnaround under manager Nick Tucker. Banbury's 5-0 thrashing at Corby Town and Hitchin's 2-1 defeat meant Clevedon finished two points clear of the relegation zone, even though they failed to pick up any points against Oxford. The visitors looked the more likely to break the deadlock, but Danny Greaves made two fine saves to deny Darren Pond. Clevedon started the second period much brighter and wasted several opportunities to open the scoring in the first 20 minutes. Although the visitors did not create many clear-cut chances, the pressure eventually paid off when Michael Lyon's low cross left substitute Mark Bell with a simple finish on 86 minutes.
Baldock on the rise
February 6: Baldock Town continued their excellent league form with an 8-0 win at Croxley guild. Jack Gregson grabbed a hat-trick. Baldock are now in second place, one point behind the leaders with a game in hand. They last lost in the league on August 18.
Stotfold gain revenge
February 6: Stotfold avenged an early season home reverse against Stones with this Lincoln Road victory. Goals from Leon Gutzmore 10 minutes into the game and George Brinkman after 27 minutes put the Eagles in control. Sam Strange put Stones back in the game after 34 minutes.Veteran Gutzmore sealed Stotfold's success with his second goal three minutes before half time.
Boro knocked off the top
February 6: Stevenage suffered a double sending off and were knocked off the top of the Blue Square Premier by a first half goal from Tamworth's Chris Smith. Smith pounced from close range for the only goal after Ronnie Henry cleared off the line in a goalmouth scramble. Borough's hopes of a comeback were dealt a blow when full-back Henry was sent off for a foul on Jake Sheridan after 59 minutes. And Henry was soon joined by Darren Murphy, who picked up two bookings in the space of six minutes. The result allowed Oxford to regain the lead at the top of the table on goal difference.
Late goal wins it for Hatters
February 6: Liam Hatch's late header earned Luton all three points at Barrow.
The Hatters had the better of the early exchanges, with Tom Craddock forcing a save out of keeper Tim Deasy before Janos Kovacs headed over.
Barrow had chances too as Andy Bond, Nick Chadwick, Jason Walker and Carlos Logan all missed, while Walker and Paul Rutherford were denied by Mark Tyler.
And they were made to pay when Hatch headed home Kevin Nicholls' corner seven minutes from time.
Shock defeat for Hatters
January 30: Luton fell to a surprise defeat at home against struggling Ebbsfleet. Liam Hatch gave Luton the lead with a long range efforts, but a Magno Viera brace shocked the home side. First he struck from the edge of the area to level the scores and then he finished from close range.
Tom Craddock equalised for the Hatters but Moses Ashikodi's close range shot gave Ebbsfleet a much-needed victory.
Boro heading for Wembley again?
January 30: Stevenage Borough took another step towards defending the FA Trophy with a 4-1 win over Dover.
The Kent side took the lead on 26 minutes with a header from Shaun Welford.
Stevenage fought back though to lead at the break with goals from Tim Sills, his first since joining from Torquay, and Chris Beardsley. Second half strikes from Michael Bostwick and Yemi Odubade made it safe despite Welford twice going close.
Second half goals sink Stotfold
January 23: A crowd of over 250 saw North-Easterners Shildon beat Stotfold 2-0 at Roker Park in the FA Vase. Former Hitchin keeper Brad Gillham kept the visitors at bay in the first half, but two second half goals put paid to the Rokermen's hopes. In the 56th minute, Warren Byrne's deflected shot gave Shildon the lead and a superb strike from Steve Johnson seven minutes later clinched the win.
Boro keep up the pace
January 23: Stacy Long's second-half double was enough to keep Stevenage top of the Blue Square Premier.
Boro went ahead after 63 minutes when Tim Sills nodded the ball down to Long, who fired home from outside the box. And as Kettering sought an equaliser, Long finished off a Stevenage break by rounding keeper Nathan Abbey to score in added time.
Up until that point, Kettering were always in the game, although they were unable to force a serious save out of Boro keeper Chris Day.
Hatters close the gap
January 23: Luton Town closed in on the the top six in the Blue Square Premier thanks to Gateshead keeper Paul Farman's bizarre own goal.Claude Gnakpa's drilled right-wing cross looked to be a routine task for Farman but he made a mess of it, and could only spill the ball into the net.
Daryl Clare was denied for Gateshead by Luton keeper Kevin Pilkington early on. The home side went close late on, but Richard Money's side held on to win 1-0.
Hatters edged out of the FA Cup
January 2: Rickie Lambert's 25-yard free-kick took League One Southampton past Luton into the FA Cup fourth round.
Luton's Kevin Pilkington made a handful of top-class saves before Lambert's strike in the 36th minute.
The Hatter came back in the second half and Adam Newton should have equalised, but miskicked from two yards out. Southampton could have extended their lead, but Lambert and substitute Matt Paterson both shot wide.
Stotfold beat the freeze, but not Holbeach
January 2: Stotfold's game with Holbeach beat the icy conditions, but the home side were frustrated and had to settle for a draw. The Eagles took a 22nd minute lead through Ryan Aldrin, who collected a crossfield pass from Jamie Osborne and cut in from the right to slot home. Nimmo levelled for Holbeach five minutes later, controling a cross from the right with his first touch and beating Brad Gillham with his second. By the break Stotfold were back in front through Leon Gutzmore's effort seven minutes before the interval, the striker running through the visiting defence before firing past James Doughty to the keeper's left. The only goal of an end to end second half saw Nimmo haul Holbeach on terms after 72 minutes, converting a left wing cross from Pete Sutton.
Holders Stevenage ease through
December 12: Trophy holders Stevenage safely made their way into the second round with victory over Ebbsfleet.
Boro took the lead on 14 minutes with a sweet strike from Chris Beardsley after a quickly-taken free-kick.
Ebbsfleet rarely troubled the Stevenage goal, whilst Mitchell Cole rattled the crossbar. The game was made safe in the last minute when David Bridges netted with a left-footed shot from 22-yards.
Luton crash out of Trophy
December 12: Luton Town's Trophy hopes were dashed as poor defending cost them dearly in the FA Trophy first round at Cambridge United.
Danny Crow was unmarked to put the U's ahead after six minutes, while strike partner Chris Holroyd added two more before the break.
He was unmarked to head in the second on the half hour then netted from Wayne Hatswell's miss-hit long-range shot.
A Hatswell own goal gave JP Trophy holders Luton a late consolatio
Stevenage still chasing Oxford
December 5: Stevenage kept up their challenge at the top of the Blue Square Premier table and maintained their unbeaten home league record with a 2-0 win against Kidderminster. Jon Ashton back-headed Stevenage ahead from Ronnie Henry's disputed free-kick. And Mitchell Cole's second, from Darren Murphy's knockdown, was scored as the visitors appealed for offside. Cole's first goal of the season keeps second-placed Stevenage within five points of leaders Oxford.
Luton in stalemate
December 5: Ten-man Chester held promotion chasers Luton Town to a drab goalless draw for the second time this season. Defender Kevin Roberts was sent off just before half-time for hauling down Luton striker Matt Barnes-Homer as he ran clear. But, despite the advantage, the Hatters failed to capitalise. Luton had few chances, the best coming midway through the second half when Barnes-Homer's header rattled the bar. Richard Money's Hatters climb a place to seventh, four points adrift of the play-off zone.
Rokermen through in Vase
December 5: Stotfold booked their place in the last 32 of the FA Carlsberg Vase this afternoon following a 3-1 third round win against Badshot Lea.There was a shock for Stotfold when Michael Smith netted within 20 seconds of the kick-off without a single Stotfold player having touched the ball. Ryan Aldrin equalised early in the second half as the Badshot keeper strayed off his line early. Then Stuart Lochhead's 63rd minute glancing header gave the hosts the lead and to seal the win, Leon Gutzmore lifted in a third seven minutes from time.
Griffin's the man
November 28: Stevenage striker Charlie Griffin hit the winner against his old club Salisbury as Boro moved to within two points of Blue Square Premier leaders Oxford. Griffin settled the game with a low 12-yard drive just before the interval. The Whites rarely threatened although Matt Tubbs had two chances, including an effort which was saved by Chris Day. Salisbury's hopes faded with 16 minutes left when defender Chris Todd was sent off for a second booking.
Hatters in the hat
November 28: Luton came from behind to earn an FA Cup replay against League Two side Rotherham. Tom Craddock gave Luton the lead from the penalty spot but Rotherham equalised when Adam Le Fondre turned in Tom Pope's cross from close range. Rotherham then led when Stephen Brogan headed them in front with a looping header from a Gary Roberts cross. Luton forced a replay when substitute Mark Nwokeji shot past Andy Warrington for 2-2.
Boylan goal enough for Boro
November 21: An early goal from Lee Boylan was enough for Stevenage to beat Forest Green.
The visitors took the lead on seven minutes when Andrew Drury crossed for Boylan to head home from close range. Stevenage dominated and went close to doubling their lead just after half time when Ronnie Henry hit a 35-yard shot against the woodwork. The home side struggled to make an impact as Boro restricted them to just a few chances.
Hatters generous
November 21: Luton let slip a two-goal lead as Cambridge substitute Danny Crow scored twice in the last 10 minutes to earn a point at Luton. After a cagey and goalless first half, Claude Gnapka put Luton ahead when he poked home Kevin Nicholls' free kick. Tom Craddock doubled the Hatters' lead with a 30-yard strike but Crow replied immediately with a close-range header. Luton keeper Kevin Pilkington then saved a Chris Holroyd penalty, but Crow converted a second spot-kick after he was brought down by Nicholls.
Boro come back in style
November 14: Striker Charlie Griffin atoned for an own goal by scoring a superb hat-trick to help Stevenage defeat Gateshead 5-3.
Griffin headed into his own net from a free-kick but rifled in a leveller and Yemi Odabade's strike put Boro ahead. Griffin headed into the right net and Daryl Clare powered in for Gateshead to make it 3-2 but Griffin's free-kick restored Boro's two-goal lead. Clare netted from close range but Michael Bostwick's long-range strike sealed the win for Stevenage.
Gallen sets up Luton
November 14: Kevin Gallen scored his third goal in seven days to help Luton to a comfortable 2-0 win at Grays. The visitors took the lead when Gallen set up Tom Craddock who finished from close range. Gallen then turned goalscorer when midfielder Kevin Nicholls created a chance for him to score from just inside the area. Grays struggled to create any chances in the game and Luton could have added more.
Stotfold through in Vase
November 14: Stotfold came through an exciting FA Vase tie, beating S&L Corby 4-2 in extra time.In the first half the Foundrymen seemed to have put poor league form behind them, opening up a two goal lead with a 36th minute Michael Byrne opener and a second from Chris Logan four minutes later. Stuart Lochhead's 46th minute goal started the Eagles fightback but they had to wait until six minutes from the end to square the contest through Leon Gutzmore. Just three minutes remained in extra time when Lochhead gave Stotfold the lead and Kane Dougherty sealed their last 64 place after 119 minutes.
Boro earn a replay
November 7: Striker Charlie Griffin earned Stevenage a FA Cup First Round replay at Broadhall Way as his injury-time goal secured a draw at Port Vale. A replay was the very least Boro deserved after they outplayed their League Two opponents for long spells of an entertaining tie. Adam Yates put the hosts ahead when his 30-yard effort squeezed into the net. But Stevenage produced a rousing finale which ended with Griffin heading in Mitchell Cole's cross from close in.
Eagles comeback in style
November 7: Stotfold came back from two down to earn a point at Desborough.
Desborough missed the chance to climb out of the relegation zone as they let a two goal lead slip through their grasp. Recalled defender Nathan Mitchell gave the home side a 13th minute advantage and eight minutes later new signing from Rothwell Town Jason Turner added a second for Desborough.Leon Gutzmore replied for the Eagles on the half hour, and Ryan Aldrin hauled the visitors on terms after 66 minutes.
Luton let it slip
November 7: Luton lost a three-goal lead as League Two high-flyers Rochdale salvaged a first-round replay. The Hatters went ahead after four minutes as Steve Basham headed in Adam Newton's cross.Newton's lob doubled the lead before Basham hit his second after 29 minutes with a curler from the edge of the box.
But after Craig Dawson pulled one back, Joe Thompson smashed home Tom Kennedy's cross with three minutes left and then headed in to keep his side alive.
Langford capitulate
November 7: Langford let a three goal lead slip against SSML title favourites Aylesbury and ended up losing 3-5 at Forde Park. Lee Harman opened the scoring for the Reds while brothers Luke and Ryan Nichol added two more for 3-0 before Liam Smythe pulled one back before the interval. The home side fell apart after the break as Gareht Price scored a brace for 3-3, Craig Hennet then netted the visitors’ fourth before Price completed his hat-trick in the 87th minute.
Late burst clinches it for Stotfold
October 31: Two late goals gave Stotfold a convincing win over Yaxley.Ryan Aldrin opened the scoring for the Eagies on the half hour, but Jamie Darlow levelled for the visitors five minutes before the interval. Leon Gutzmore gave Stotfold the lead for a second time seven minutes after the restart. Ian Morrison sealed Stotfold's win in the 90th minute and top scorer George Brinkman took the home tally to four two minutes into added time.
Top of table clash ends all square
October 31: Kettering fought back from a goal down against Stevenage to stay second in the Blue Square Premier table. Stevenage raced ahead on two minutes when Poppies keeper Lee Harper fumbled Joel Byrom's direct free-kick. But Moses Ashikodi levelled for the home side midway through the first half with a shot from outside the area. Francis Green almost grabbed an injury-time winner for Kettering but his shot was turned behind by keeper Chris Day.
Bad start for new Luton boss
October 31: Richard Money's reign at Kenilworth Road got off to a miserable start. The Hatters started the game well but missed a host of chances. And Luton were made to pay when Kevin Nicholls was dispossessed with seven minutes left and Lee Tomlin broke away to fire inside the right hand post. Rushden substitute Mark Byrne then lobbed Mark Tyler to secure the points.
Boro face Vale, Luton at home
October 25: Stevenage Borough will visit Port Vale in the first round of the FA Cup. The draw also pairs Luton with Rochdale.
Luton ease past Grays
October 24: Grays were well beaten 3-0 at Luton to leave them to concentrate on Blue Square Premier survival. "You can't afford to play for half a game and in the first 45 minutes were were non-existent," manager Julian Dicks said. "I told the players exactly what I thought at half-time and we did get about them a bit more but I wanted an FA Cup run and I'm disappointed."
Boro leave it late
October 24: Chelmsford suffered late agony in losing 2-1 to Stevenage with the visitors' winner coming in injury time from Vincenti. Rob Edmans had given Chelmsford the lead in the first-half before they had Simon Glover sent off. "I thought we deserved a result as we put so much into the game and I was proud of the boys," said City manager Glenn Pennyfather. Boro levelled through Charlie Griffin in the 63rd minute.
Stotfold woe continues
October 24: Hat trick hero Miles Hunter fired Sleaford to an emphatic win over the Eagles at Eslaforde Park. Hunter's 36th minute starter was followed by a goal from strike partner Ryan Oliver three minutes into first half stoppage time. Hunter strengthened Sleaford's grip on proceedings after 64 minutesx before Nathan Moulton replied for Stotfold five minutes later. The home victory was sealed by by Hunter's third seven minutes from the end.
Brinkman double settles it
October 17: Stotfold beat Long Buckby 2-0 at Roker Park thanks to two goals in the space of three first half minutes from George Brinkman. Brinkman gave Stotfold a 29th minute advantage and three minutes later he gave them a firm grip on proceedings with his second goal.
Luton win again
October 17: Tom Craddock fired managerless Luton Town to their third straight win in a game of two penalties at Moss Lane. Hatters keeper Mark Tyler saved the first spot-kick from Colin Little after Altrincham's Aaron Burns was upended. Moments later, a Luton attack saw substitute Ryan Charles being brought down in the area and Craddock stepped up to convert. The Hatters spent long periods on the backfoot, Little and Burns both going close for Alty.
Boro close the gap at top
October 17: Stevenage Borough closed the gap on Blue Square Premier leaders Oxford United to seven points after beating Salisbury City. Boro's Mark Roberts headed the home side in front just before half time to cap an impressive opening period. Salisbury's Chris Flood struck from inside the area shortly after the break to equalise, before Charlie Griffin converted Andy Drury's corner to restore Boro's lead. Chris Beardsley then sealed the win, scoring from close range.
Late win for Luton
October 10: An injury time goal from Ryan Charles, who had a loan spell with Hitchin two years ago, gave Luton a remarkable 2-1 win at Kdderminster. Barnes-Homer gave the home side the lead after 13 minutes and there was another blow for Luton when Jarvis was sent off after 41 minutes. But Kidderminster also had a player red-carded before half-time. Luton didn't equalise until the 76th minute through Newton and it was left to Charles' volley in the 90th minute to clinch victory.
Griffin treble inspires Stevenage
October 10: A hat-trick from Charlie Griffin drove Stevenage to an impressive 4-0 win against struggling Hayes & Yeading. Griffin opened the scoring after 17 minutes and added another in the 33rd. His third came from the penalty spot after 72 minutes. Stevenage's day was completed in added time when Michael Bostwick netted from close range.
Former Hitchin men win it for Stotfold
October 3: At Broxbourne's Goffs Lane stadium, Stotfold booked their place in Monday's FA Vase second round proper draw by 2-1. After a goalless opening half, Luke Simkins headed the Rokermen in front ten minutes into the second half while Stuart Lochhead made it 2-0 from the penalty spot, the Borough then pulling one back in the dying minutes.
Late goals denies Stevenage
October 3: York City defender Djoumin Sangare scored an injury-time header to earn a point against high-flyers Stevenage Borough. Borough took the lead against the run of play on 34 minutes when Andrew Drury's corner was headed into his own net by Daniel Parslow. But York continued to dominate and deserved their equaliser when Barrett headed in from an Alex Lawless corner.
Wright on target for Hatters
October 3: Ben Wright scored on his first start as Luton Town responded to the midweek departure of Mick Harford by beating Tamworth. Asa Hall put Luton ahead, receiving a pass by Wright to lash in from 12 yards.
Loan signing Wright then doubled the lead five minutes later, curling home a right-foot drive. Alex Rodman pulled one back but the Lambs lost for the first time in eight games.
Victory for Lambs old boy Alan Nielson, now Luton's caretaker boss, was enough to lift the Hatters three places up the table and back into the play-off places in fifth spot.
Luton in a cracker
September 26: Kevin Gallen scored twice as Luton came from 2-0 down to win a seven-goal thriller at Cambridge United. Luton trailed to Courtney Pitt's 18-yard strike and a Chris Holroyd penalty when Liam Hatch was sent off. But Gallen pulled one back from close range and set up Rossi Jarvis to equalise before Jake Howells fired the visitors ahead a minute later. Holroyd pulled the U's level from close range but Gallen won it from the spot.
Boro slip up again
September 26: Only 1,200 people saw Stevenage draw for the second time in a week at Broadhall Way. Michael Bostwick's late header preserved Stevenage's unbeaten home record but saw them slip down to third spot in Blue Square Premier.
The visitors went ahead with their first chance of the game when Aaron Burns teed up Rob Williams to head in. Stevenage piled forward and wasted a host of chances. But Bostwick rescued a point when he headed home in second-half injury-time.
Stotfold lose again
September 19: Stotfold’s indifferent form continued as they went down to their third consecutive defeat at Newport Pagnell. The UCL leaders, who remain top after this loss, were beaten by an Armstrong goal five minutes into stoppage time.
Boro up to second place
September 19: Stevenage climbed up to second in the Blue Square Premier with a victory over bottom club Chester. Midfielder Michael Bostwick struck the only goal of the game after seven minutes, volleying home Mitchell Cole's left-wing cross. Charlie Griffin could have made it two just before the break only for his header to hit the post. At the other end Nick Chadwick had a header easily saved by Chris Day but Chester failed to create chances.
Luton bounce back
September 12: Luton Town bounced back from their first defeat of the season see off struggling Barrow.
Keen to get back on track after Tuesday's 2-0 defeat by leaders Oxford, they could have led within a minute but Tom Craddock's hit the post. Luton took the lead with Adam Newton's finish from outside the box and only a fine Tim Deasy save prevented Craddock from making it 2-0. Deasy then frustrated Kevin Gallen as Town tried to seal the game early.
Boro come back to win
September 12: Stevenage recovered from two down to end Mansfield's 15-game unbeaten home league record. It seemed grim for Boro after Kyle Perry netted from six yards and then doubled the home side's lead with a left-foot effort. But the game turned on Perry being sent off for dangerous play. Chris Beardsley headed in a cross from Charlie Griffin to reduce the arrears, and Yemi Odubade levelled from 12 yards before Griffin netted the winner.
Shock defeat for Stotfold
September 5: UCL League leaders Stotfold were surprisingly beaten 3-0 by Blackstones at Roker Park.Adam Scotcher's 35th minute goal had Blackstones ahead at the interval, and a Richard Thompson brace sealed victory in the second half. Thompson scored his first goal after seventy minutes and rounded off the scoring with a penalty four minutes from the end. Attendance was 102.
Luton held again
September 5: Luton moved up to third in the Blue Square Premier although they were held to a draw at Salisbury.
Kevin Gallen opened the scoring for the Hatters after 27 minutes, converting Adam Newton's pass from close range.
But Salisbury battled back and Matthew Tubbs levelled the scores late in the first halffor the home side. Substitute Luke Ruddick could have won it for the Whites with the last kick but fired over from 18 yards out.
Stotfold comeback to beat champions
August 29: Stotfold overturned a first half deficit to beat S&L Corby and maintain their 100% record at the top of the UCL. The reigning champions went ahead after 34 minutes when a Mark Forbes corner was only half cleared and when the midfielder regained possession he played the ball in to the near post where Callum Noble slotted home. On the hour the visitors levelled, Callum Donnelly and Ryan Mitchell providing Paul Garrett with a far post tap in. Thereafter Stotfold were on top. Garrett drew a fine save from Richard Lavin who had no chance after 71 minutes when Donnelly unleashed an outstanding strike from 30 yards which arrowed into the top corner.
Boro edge local derby
August 29: Michael Bostwick's spectacular strike 16 minutes from time gave Stevenage a home win over 10-man Rushden & Diamonds.
Stevenage made a great start when Lee Boylan netted from the penalty spot after Chris Beardsley was brought down by Curtis Osano.
There was another setback for the visitors when Michael Corcoran was shown a straight red for hacking down Lawrie Wilson.
Rushden levelled when former Hitchin striker Cliff Akurang scored from Matt Pattison's cross but Bostwick won it from 18 yards out.
Hatters goal-shy again
August 29: Luton’s Blue Square Premier career is proving tougher than expected after this second successive 0-0 draw. Both teams left the field to jeers after failing to excite the crowd.
Luton keeper George Pilkington kept out a Damian Spence header and a shot by Exodus Geohaghon in the first half. Poppies keeper Lee Harper saved from Adam Newton and Tony Craddock. Luton found the Kettering defence too tough to break down. Mick Harford’s side remain third in the table, but are four points behind leaders Oxford.
Boro lose unbeaten record
August 22: Oxford United skipper Adam Murray ensured his side stayed top of the Blue Square Premier with a second-half winner. Alfie Potter fired the U's ahead from close range. Joel Byrom almost equalised with a 25-yarder before Murray's low shot doubled the home side's lead. Former Oxford striker Yemi Odubade's close-range shot made it 2-1 late on but Boro could not salvage a draw.
Stotfold maintain 100% record
August 22: A thrilling Roker encounter saw Stotfold's late flurry preserve their 100% record at the expense of a Desborough side still without a league victory. Ryan Aldrin gave the Eagles the lead after eleven minutes, but Desborough fought back to level through Jon Mitchell after 46 minutes.
When Chris Difante put Desborough ahead a minute past the hour an upset looked on the cards. A late twist saw Stuart Lochhead equalise with six minutes remaining and Aldrin snatched an 88th minute Eagles winner with his second goal of the afternoon.
Stotfold, Langford out of FA Cup
August 15: Biggleswade United booked their place in the preliminary round of the FA Cup with a 2-0 win against local rivals Stotfold. A first half goal from Emanuel 'Manu' Langlais and another midway through the second half from Chris Francis was enough to see off the Rokermen. Meanwhile, at Forde Park, Langford were trounced 0-6 by Aylesbury Vale.
Bedford beaten by Cornishmen
August 15: Bedford Town went down to big-spending Truro City in their seaon opener at the New Eyrie.
The game was goalless at the break but the Cornish side struck twice in the second half to secure all three points in front of a healthy 417 crowd. After a goallless first half, Bedford had their chances, but goals from Broad (58) and Taylor (77) sent Truro up for their long trip home.
Boro in bore draw
August 15: Barrow and Stevenage shared the spoils in a scoreless draw at Holker Park. David Bridges and Charlie Griffin saw first-half shots saved by Barrow keeper Stuart Tomlinson. Barrow struggled to trouble the Stevenage defence.
Lawrie Wilson and Cole wasted further chances for Stevenage, while Logan headed against the bar for the hosts with 15 minutes to go.
Luton go top
August 15: Goals from Asa Hall and Kevin Gallen helped Luton Town come from behind to beat Gateshead. Gateshead midfielder Wayne Phillips set up Michael Mackay to put the visitors ahead after just five minutes. Midfielder Hall headed Luton level in 21 minutes from a Rossi Jarvis free-kick and a minute later Gallen's long-range shot put the Hatters ahead.
Good start for Bickerstaff
August 8: New Stotfold manager Gordon Bickerstaff had a good start to his Roker Park career with a 3-2 win at Deeping Rangers. Leon Gutzmore gave Stotfold the lead after two minutes, but five minutes later, the home side were level. Former Hitchin midfielder Stuart Lochhead restored the lead from the penalty spot after 70 minutes and after 82, Paul Garrett made it 3-1. Deeping grabbed a second in the last minute. Stotfold included ex-Hitchin defender Luke Simkins in their line-up.
Luton robbed
August 8: Luton were denied victory at AFC Wimbledon by an 80th minute penalty. Dons sub Jon Main picked himself up to fire into the bottom corner with 10 minutes left after being brought down by Shane Blackett, who was sent off. Luton had taken an early lead when Tom Craddock blasted them in front from the spot in the 14th minute after Blackett was fouled by Paul Lorraine. A crowd of 4,488 saw the game.
Boro held
August 8: Tamworth earned a draw against 10-man Stevenage. The Lambs found themselves behind with 13 minutes gone as Lee Boylan converted from the penalty spot. The visitors drew level 16 minutes later as Tom Shaw crossed in for Bradley Pritchard to stab home. Charlie Griffin, Mark Roberts and Joel Byrom all went close for Stevenage before the latter was sent off in the closing stages for a second booking. Just over 2,000 saw the game.
Luton kick off at Wimbledon
July 6: Luton Town and Stevenage Borough will not meet headlong in a Christmas holiday derby. In the Blue Square Premier fixture list, Luton will meet Histon home and away over the holiday period. Stevenage play Cambridge United.
Luton start their non-league career on August 8 with a trip to AFC Wimbledon while Stevenage are at home to Tamworth. Luton’s first home game is on August 11 against Mansfield. Stevenage will travel to Kenilworth Road on September 29, while the return game will be on April 3.
Bickerstaff's the man
June 28: Stotfold have appointed Gordon Bickerstaff as first team manager. Bickerstaff replaces Ian Donnelly, who recently left the club. He will be assisted by Cecil Lee and Peter Cosby. Donnelly’s assistant, Terry Kitchener, has also left Roker Park.
Blues appoint Cowley
June 2: Arlesey Town have appointed Lee Cowley as their new manager. In an announcement on June 1, the Blues named former Dunstable manager Cowley as the man in charge at Hitchin Road. Former Hitchin striker Zema Abbey has been named assistant manager.
Boro release quartet
June 2: Stevenage Borough have released four young players who have been deemed surplus to requirements. Liam McDevitt, Eliot Buchanan, George Brinkman and Zak Burke have all joined James Russell and Jack Bradshaw who were released last season. Chairman Phil Wallace said "It was difficult to let these kids go but the gap from where they're at and what we need to compete for promotion is just huge. None of the lads have a chance of making it into Boro’s squad next season so it's best to let them move on lower down, get regular first team games somewhere and develop in their own time".
Courbold goes
May 20: Arlesey Town have sacked manager Matt Courbold. His departure follows weeks of speculation about the former Dagenham player's position.
Arlesey Town will play host to Courbold's old team in a pre-season game on July 11.
May 20: Stotfold's Under-18s Academy side has won the Ridgeons League Championship play-off final, beating Great Yarmouth 3-2 at Diss Town. Stotfold had previously won the league's West Division when they faced Cornard United in the play-off semi-finals, a 3-0 success taking them through to meet favourites Great Yarmouth.
May 11: Baldock Town go into the close season full of confidence after finishing third in the debut season in the Premier Division of the Herts Senior County League. Baldock ended the campaign with a 3-0 win at Evergreen, completing an impressive run-in that saw them lose just once in their last 18 league games. In their final home game, at the County Ground, Baldock beat Bedmond 19-0. Harry Holland scored four times, Josh Furness netted a double hat-trick, Craig Skelton scored five and Nick Stilwell, Sam Crow, Lee Rusbridge and David Rees grabbed one apiece.
April 25: Biggleswade Town won the Spartan South Midlands League this afternoon thanks to a 3-2 win against Chalfont St.Peter. They pipped Harefield United to the title by the goal difference of a solitary goal - both were tied on the same number of points. A crowd of 365 spectators were there to witness the victory - more than the Biggleswade derby over Easter and the league's highest gate of the season.The Waders went in front on 20 minutes. From a corner, the ball was swung over to the far post and Mark Webster headed back across – and Kevin Kilroy was there to force the ball over the line. An own goal made it 2-0 shortly before the interval. The Waders were given a scare within five minutes of the restart as the visitors struck back. Chalfont put in a long throw into the box, and the ball came out to Alan Hedley who fired through a crowd of players.On 73 minutes, the Waders made it 3-1, former Hitchin defender Liam Folds heading home. Five minutes later, Chalfont scored again, but Biggleswade held on to claim the title.
April 25: Arlesey secured their Southern League status with a win over Romulus. The home side started well and won a penalty on 12 minutes but Lee Allen’s spot-kick was aimed straight at Romulus keeper Matt Sargeant.
It was no surprise when Arlesey scored after half an hour, Matthew Clark’s ball was crossed from the right by Jamie Osbourne for Ryan Francis to tap in at the far post.
Romulus striker Tyrone Fahan was twice by sought-after Arlesey goalkeeper James Russell in the closing stages. The Blues almost scored again when Matt Kimani blasted against the post
