Saturday 17th March (Fixtures and Results)

[Karen Browne]

Saturday 17^th March

(Kick Off 3.00pm unless stated)

 

PREMIER DIVISION

Berkhamsted v Tring Athletic

Biggleswade United v Aylesbury United

Broxbourne Borough V&E v Leverstock Green

Colney Heath v Harefield United

Dunstable Town v AFC Dunstable

Hanwell Town v St Margaretsbury

Haringey Borough v Hillingdon Borough

Holmer Green v Stotfold

London Tigers v Hertford Town (@ Silver Jubilee Park)

Oxhey Jets v Hatfield Town

Royston Town v Hadley

 

DIVISION ONE

Ampthill Town v Tokyngton Manor

Cranfield United v Amersham Town

Kentish Town v Harpenden Town

London Colney v Crawley Green

New Bradwell St Peter v Cockfosters

Sun Postal Sports v Buckingham Athletic

Welwyn Garden City v Kings Langley

 

DIVISION TWO

Aston Clinton v Tring Corinthians

Caddington v Totternhoe

MK Wanderers v Bletchley Town

Pitstone & Ivinghoe v Hale Leys United

The 61FC (Luton) v Risborough Rangers

Winslow United v Old Bradwell United

 

RESERVE DIVISION ONE

Hadley Reserves v Royston Town Reserves

Hoddesdon Town Reserves v London Colney Reserves

Kings Langley Reserves v The 61FC (Luton) Reserves

Risborough Rangers Reserves v Langford Reserves

St Margaretsbury Reserves v Holmer Green Reserves

Stotfold Reserves v Oxhey Jets Reserves

Wodson Park Reserves v Cockfosters Reserves

 

RESERVE DIVISION TWO

Bletchley Town Reserves v Crawley Green Reserves

Buckingham Athletic Reserves v London Lions Reserves

Kent Athletic Reserves v Harpenden Town Reserves

Old Bradwell United Reserves v Welwyn Garden City Reserves

Stony Stratford Town Reserves v Winslow United Reserves

Totternhoe Reserves v Sun Postal Sports Reserves

[HTFCew]

Saturday 17^th March

(Kick Off 3.00pm unless stated)

 

PREMIER DIVISION

 

London Tigers v Hertford Town (@ Silver Jubilee Park)

 

 

 

This one now at Hillingdon Borough - their next two are definitely at Silver Jubilee, two after that probably are - tba.

[Munchkin]

Good to have a game after 2 weeks, chance to rectify our early season drubbing against Welwyn.

[HTFCew]

Saturday 17^th March

(Kick Off 3.00pm unless stated)

 

PREMIER DIVISION

 

London Tigers v Hertford Town (@ Silver Jubilee Park)

 

 

 

This one now at Hillingdon Borough - their next two are definitely at Silver Jubilee, two after that probably are - tba.

 

And KO has been put back to 4 pm

[Karen Browne]

London Tigers v Hertford Town (@ Silver Jubilee Park)

 

This match now postponed - due to mix up over pitch bookings

[Karen Browne]

Berkhamsted v Tring Athletic

(BERKHAMSTED): Farmer, Power, Rodrigoe, (J) Carmichael, (S) Carmichael, Davies, Calcutt, Hawes, Francis, Sears, Chamberlain.

(Subs): Wardle, Welling, Smith, Jowle, McPherson.

 

Biggleswade United v Aylesbury United

(BIGGLESWADE UNITED): Walters, Supple, Scotney, Darvell, Russell, Beale, (L) Murray, Nicholl, (S) Murray, Yusuff, Parker.

(Subs): Preston, Butler, Bradbury, Childs, Jonjo.

(AYLESBURY UNITED): Sillitoe, Slatter, Jones, Wood, Mulholland, Barnett, Garcia, Acheampong, Baines, Field, Edgeworth.

(Subs): Donaldson, Joyce, Clark, Timberlake.

 

Broxbourne Borough V&E v Leverstock Green

(BROXBOURNE BOROUGH): Buck, Mitchell-Coop, Greene, Broom, Bostock, Bradshaw, Cookey, Bambridge, Adeoye, Doyle, Stockman.

(Subs): Akuwuoke, Kostalas, Watson, Tikare, John.

(LEVERSTOCK GREEN): Tasker, Bircham, Shadbolt, Preston, Miller, Culaj, Butler, Farrelly, Austin, Griggs, Pritchard.

(Subs): Grant, Hallissey, Thompson.

 

Dunstable Town v AFC Dunstable

(DUNSTABLE TOWN): Taylor, Boyce, Mead, Nelly, Bruce, Pickering, Holmes, Judge, Roache, Frater, Jackson.

(Subs): Brinkman, Henney, Burgoyne, Brennan, Cooper.

(AFC DUNSTABLE): Gardner, Mills, Lincoln, Baldry, Ryan, Buchanan, Barnett, Butler, Christie, Olaleye, Burnett.

(Subs): Jay Jay, Massey, Harnaman, Harker, Wills.

 

Royston Town v Hadley

(ROYSTON TOWN): Norris, Clemo, Grinham, Endacott, Bradshaw, Mart Standen, Edwards, Collins, Matt Standen, Fehmi, Robins.

(Subs): Apostolos, Redford, Young, Lockett.

 

Oxhey Jets v Hatfield Town

(HATFIELD TOWN): Lacey, North, Welsh, Sawyer, Perrin, Tahon, Stewart, Dray, Newman, Brunt, Smith.

 

Winslow United v Old Bradwell United

(WINSLOW UNITED): Bowley, DJ, Bob, Wiff, Ainge, Browny, Rocket, Butler, Rumble, Brooksy Phil.

(Subs): Raj, Chris.

Edited March 17, 2012 by Karen Browne

[Karen Browne]

2 mins Oxhey Jets 1 Hatfield Town 0

10 mins Ben Hart free kick is flicked home by Craig Hinton. Hoddesdon Town Reserves 1 London Colney Reseerves 0.

7 mins Oxhey Jets 1 Hatfield Town 1 - Brunt levels the scoreline after Hatfield nick the ball in the midfield.

Royston Town 1 Hadley 0 - Royston take an early lead with a top quality Luke Robins volley from a deep Joe Clemo cross.

GOAL 9': Broxbourne Borough V&E 0 Leverstock Green 1 - Bekim Culaj cross drops for Dan Griggs, who blasts it home.

18 mins Craig Hinton slots home again to make it 2-0 to Hoddesdon Town Reserves v London Colney Reserves.

Royston Town 2 Hadley 0 - Luke Robins gets his second with a good header from a Ross Collins corner.

Eventful start here Caddington 2-0 Totternhoe. Totts penalty saved on 8 mins and now 2 down 10 &13 mins.

17 mins. Caddington 2-1 Totternhoe. Pulled one back with a looping header from 12 yards

Berkhamsted 0 Tring Athletic 1 - Matt Jarvis with a far post header from corner

31 mins: GOAL Biggleswade United 0 Aylesbury United 1 - Corner kick blocked by the keeper on the line, but he can do nothing as Mulholland rams the loose ball home.

38 mins: GOAL Biggleswade United 0 Aylesbury United 2 - Ball up to Acheampong, superb play to commit defenders and the keeper, before squaring for Field to tap in.

Goal '42: Dunstable Town 1-0 AFC Dunstable. Holmes corner headed off the bar by Nelly, Joe Bruce nods in the rebound.

42 mins Caddington 2-2 Totternhoe great finish across goal by Kevin Taylor after a good ball from stefan tracey

Edited March 17, 2012 by Karen Browne

[Karen Browne]

HT Royston Town 2 Hadley 0

HT Winslow United 0 Old Bradwell United 0

HT Dunstable Town 1 AFC Dunstable 0 - Attendance at Creasey Park is 355

HT Berkhamsted 0 Tring Athletic 1

HT Caddington 2 Totternhoe 2

HT Broxbourne Borough V&E 0 Leverstock Green 1

HT London Colney 0 Crawley Green 0

HT Hanwell Town 2 St Margretsbury 0

Edited March 17, 2012 by Karen Browne

[Karen Browne]

Royston Town 2 Hadley 1

Second half kicks off and it's quickly Hoddesdon Town Reserves 3 London Colney Reserves 0 thanks to Richie Burke.

Royston Town down to ten men as keeper Will Norris sees red.

GOAL 63': Broxbourne Borough 0 Leverstock Green 2 - Ben Butler from the penalty spot after Louis Austin tripped in the box.

Berkhamsted 0 Tring Athletic 2

Power sent off for Berkhamsted - straight red, serious foul play

Colney Heath 0 Harefield United 1 - Jason Richards for the Hares.

Colney Heath 0 Harefield United 2 - Jack Reader.

Herve Baka makes it 4 with a clever finish. Hoddesdon Town Reserves 4-0 London Colney Reserves

Hanwell Town 2 St Margarertsbury 1

Royston Town 3 Hadley 1 - Matt Standen scores off the bar

London Colney 1 Crawley Green 0 - Matt Newman

Edited March 17, 2012 by Karen Browne

[Karen Browne]

FT Winslow United 0 Old Bradwell United 0

FT Berkhamsted 1 Tring Athletic 2

FT Colney Heath 0 Harefield United 2

FT Caddington 2 Totternhoe 2

FT Hanwell Town 2 St Margaretsbury 2

FT Royston Town 3 Hadley 1

FT Dunstable Town 1 AFC Dunstable 0

FT Biggleswade United 1 Aylesbury United 2

FT Broxbourne Borough V&E 0 Leverstock Green 2

FT Welwyn Garden City 0 Kings Langley 1

Edited March 17, 2012 by Karen Browne

[Winslow Boy]

Disappointing result for us and now our bogey team up next. Anything less than 100% and we will get beat.

[Rhodes]

FT Dunstable Town 1 AFC Dunstable 0

Gman2 will be pleased

[Karen Browne]

PREMIER DIVISION

1-2 Berkhamsted v Tring Athletic

1-2 Biggleswade United v Aylesbury United

0-2 Broxbourne Borough V&E v Leverstock Green

0-2 Colney Heath v Harefield United

1-0 Dunstable Town v AFC Dunstable

2-2 Hanwell Town v St Margaretsbury

6-2 Haringey Borough v Hillingdon Borough

1-0 Holmer Green v Stotfold

P-P London Tigers v Hertford Town

6-4 Oxhey Jets v Hatfield Town

3-1 Royston Town v Hadley

 

DIVISION ONE

2-1 Ampthill Town v Tokyngton Manor

2-0 Cranfield United v Amersham Town

0-0 Kentish Town v Harpenden Town

1-0 London Colney v Crawley Green

0-2 New Bradwell St Peter v Cockfosters

3-2 Sun Postal Sports v Buckingham Athletic

0-1 Welwyn Garden City v Kings Langley

 

DIVISION TWO

3-1 Aston Clinton v Tring Corinthians

2-2 Caddington v Totternhoe

2-1 MK Wanderers v Bletchley Town

2-0 Pitstone & Ivinghoe v Hale Leys United

0-3 The 61FC (Luton) v Risborough Rangers

0-0 Winslow United v Old Bradwell United

 

RESERVE DIVISION ONE

0-1 Hadley Reserves v Royston Town Reserves

4-0 Hoddesdon Town Reserves v London Colney Reserves

1-0 Kings Langley Reserves v The 61FC (Luton) Reserves

1-0 Risborough Rangers Reserves v Langford Reserves

1-0 St Margaretsbury Reserves v Holmer Green Reserves

4-5 Stotfold Reserves v Oxhey Jets Reserves

5-1 Wodson Park Reserves v Cockfosters Reserves

 

RESERVE DIVISION TWO

1-2 Bletchley Town Reserves v Crawley Green Reserves

2-2 Buckingham Athletic Reserves v London Lions Reserves

7-2 Kent Athletic Reserves v Harpenden Town Reserves

6-1 Old Bradwell United Reserves v Welwyn Garden City Reserves

2-2 Stony Stratford Town Reserves v Winslow United Reserves

4-3 Totternhoe Reserves v Sun Postal Sports Reserves

[Karen Browne]

PREMIER DIVISION

1-0 Dunstable Town v AFC Dunstable

 

Brief report on this game from another forum

LONE STRIKE FROM BRUCE SETTLES PRESTIGIOUS DERBY CLASH

 

 

First of all, Dunstable was the winner today, and I am not talking specifically about football. This was a great day for our town, where we could boast that two of the best teams in the Spartan Premier could cross swords at Creasey Park in a vital game that could affect the promotion aspirations of both teams.

 

 

It was a much anticipated game and its interest spread much wider than usual, with certain clubs sending scouts and ground hoppers earmarking this as a must see.

 

 

Predictions were difficult, with Town, the league’s highest scorers against the meanest defence, and both clubs being in notable form, and both having recently won Team of The Month Awards.

 

AFC won the corresponding fixture 1-0, holding off a second half surge from Town, and the reverse was the case today, with Town dominating the first half and were comfortable for much of the second, giving way to a late surge from AFC that threatened to seize the result every Royston supporter would have liked – a draw.

 

A good dozen of the AFC squad had crossed the divide, after having played for Town at some time.

 

In the AFC team were former Town skipper Graeme Buchanan, along with former stalwarts Jonno Barnett and Wayne Mills. Both Lincoln brothers were in the red and white away strip for AFC, and the unpredictable Jay Jay, more formally known as Terry Billy came on as a substitute. Goalkeeper Nick Gardner and midfielder Danny Ryan were part of Dunstable Town’s very successful youth team of the past – so it was very much a Dunstable occasion.

 

One thing was certain, this was never going to be a gentle end-of-the-season going through the motions with a friendly draw gentlemanly expectation. This was a grim encounter that did need the experienced control of John Panconi.

 

A boost for the home side was the inclusion of Jack Nelly. Shane Wood was injured, as was Jonathan Cooper, although the latter was named as a substitute. Both sides were more or less at full strength and champing at the bit. AFC were on the threshold of a league double that would have theme crowing…..which brings me to another aspect of the build-up.

 

This was, according to some, the Cocks versus the Cuckoos, to use the terms bestowed by rival supporters. The Regiment of the home side were again harangued by large numbers of small boys whose repertoire of rude songs would make their mothers blush. But with a tremendous atmosphere, the slings and arrows of outrageous rivalry were in place, and with a bumper attendance of 359 we were full of eager anticipation.

 

I will say sotto voce that again the anticipation did not quite live up to the expectation. It was a gritty game, that almost dared not to be as open as we might have hoped. This was a derby where the tensions affected the players. Referee John Panconi told me that the imprecations uttered by several players reminded home of a saloon bar where bravado could soon turn to more serious recriminations.

 

But this crude psychological baiting did lessen as there was only the real option of getting on with the game and making it something of a spectacle for the best home attendance of the season for the hosts.

 

Clearly the home side were the more assured and settled – as AFC had been when they played host.

The managers of both teams had done their homework and the game was as tight as a miser’s purse – yet slowly favouring Town who were the more fluid and creative on forward moves.

 

The best chances fell to Lee Roache who tried to maximise the half chances that came his way. A heart stopping moment came when one Dunstable shot struck the foot of the post and the follow up was correctly ruled off-side, since the opportunist was clearly interfering with play.

 

With midfielders and defenders digging in, it seemed a set piece might be the most likely chance of a goal, but both sides made little of these when they did occur. Nathan Frater was shadowed effectively and when he did manage a clear shot Nick Gardner was equal to it. Dunstavle corners were generally sound but so were the heads of the likes of the bullet-headed Danny Ryan. A lob from Matthew Judge was hopeful but unproductive. Nick Jackson fought for freedom to move on the ball and he achieved this despite the frequently snapping at his heels but crosses were defended. The quality of the play was generally good with the usual nervousness affecting accurate passing at times, but Dunstable Town had improved greatly on their surprising meekness in the first game – where it took until the second half before they had the measure of their opponents.

 

 

So, the hosts probed patiently, the visitors defended in depth and the Regiment must have yearned for Lee Roache to be given the kind of opportunity to dazzle with his skills in possession and to finish with appropriate style.

 

Jack Nelly was a powerful influence and he typified the determination of his team, who were largely comfortable until the somewhat frantic closing stages where measured defence gave way to hasty clearances to the nearest space not occupied by those in white and red.

 

But the more anxious faces belonged to AFC supporters who had no near misses to ooh and aah over. If this were a chess game, it would be one of a closed variety where the more confident player manoeuvred cautiously to gain tempo.

 

Peter Holmes fired in some decent corners that were either gathered by Gardner or headed away diligently. Yet it was following a corner that the Blues finally converted - at the second attempt.

 

Roache had gained possession and in cutting in he sent a cross that Nelly rose to meet and his header struck the cross bar, with central defender Joseph Bruce squeezing his follow-up header just beyond Nick Gardner’s reach. This goal came two minutes before half-time and was deserved. The Blues had been the more fluid, more effective in their creative forward play, whereas AFC had defended stoutly but had failed to do much in counter play. That would change after half time but at a slower rate than they would have wished.

 

For me Joe Bruce’s broad smile, as broad as the white band in the home shirt was worth my nervous twitches at each missed opportunity. The first goal was always seen as a vital one, and this led was taken to the interval and the doubtless exhortations of the respective managers.

 

The consensus was that yes, the Blues had deserved this lead but everyone expected a resurgence from the visitors. They needed to be more threatening in attack and the absence of a direct shot at Paul Taylor would have caused some concern. They could not afford simply to absorb and spoil, they needed some fire up front.

 

George Brinkman came on as a substitute for Town, with Nick Jackson giving way. AFC responded later with Jay Jay, aka Terry Billy and Gareth Harnaman. But it was still not swinging the way of the visitors and nerves may have been the cause of profligate finishing, following their best approach play hitherto.

 

Creeping in insidiously were some anger inducing tackles from either side, that, thankfully was kept from escalating until we were in the throes of a frantic finish, as AFC pressed for the equaliser. I am always bemused by the antics of players who curse their opponents with such gusto and then are seen in the clubhouse afterwards the best of pals.

 

Moses Olayeye, another alumnus of Dunstable Town exhibited his skill as well as his capacity for invective, sent one way over the bar, kep[eping the young scamps behind the bar active in ball retrieval from the packed car park. Wayne Mills, another former Blue gained some momentum in his work on the flanks and one of his crosses was only just cleared by the towering Nelly. Frater won a free kick on a promising position and this was delayed a little whilst Mr Panconi at the behest of one of his colleagues lectured one or two miscreants, who of course had the cherubic faces and the usual, ‘who me ref?’

 

The free kick brought two successive corners for AFC who seemed to getting closer and closer to fazing the veteran Taylor who, as usual met the demands of his task , utilising his skill and experience as one who has indeed seen it all before. In fact both goal keepers played a vital role, and Gardner of AFC was literally at some pain after the game.

With the normally pesky BJ Christie held in check, there was a promising shot from Burnett that went wide and it was this player who forced Tylor into making what really was a match saving stop right at the end. With JJ awkwardly wasting his best moment, we wondered when the end would come. The referee noted fully Taylor’s studied goal- kicks where he took his time – until he was told that wasted time would be added. At least there was none of that silly messing about by the corner flag. Both teams were in fact, generally honest in their endeavours throughout.

 

One good move from the hosts saw Bruce and Roache exchange quick passes but Judge had strayed off-side. Dean Brennan replaced Mark Boyce for the closing stage, but an added highlight for me was the sound performance of Damen Pickering – named by the referee as his choice for man of the match. A later attack for the Blues saw Peter Holmes set up for a chance, denied by yet another former Blue – the evergreen Graeme Buchanan, a defender who would be the welcome addition to any team.

 

With time running out AFC sensed that they would have to risk leaving gaps and go for the equaliser. They mounted a purposeful number of forward moves and they were not all thwarted legitimately, yet resulting free kicks were nondescript. Not so was the melee of players who gathered following a bit of questionable play from Kyle Lincoln.

 

Taylor sprinted out to the wing where this was occurring to add his opinions and he was cautioned long with Lincoln. In terms of the importance of the match we were quite fortunate that this was the only real moment where it seemed handbags might be raised. The incident was sufficiently minor as not to warrant the intrusion the large numbers of players.

 

AFC had simply left their best work too late, as Dunstable did in the first game. They had no proved able to have a really commanding spell and often played into the feet of Blues defenders, whose often inelegant clearances were safe yet hardly full of composure. But AFC could not capitalise. It is excusable to take an anywhere will do clearance rather than seek to be artistic, as who would want to be blamed for giving a goal away with an attempt at showboating defending.

 

Even the best professional sides paid more than is warranted can fall to such pieces of desperation.

Among these pieces of hastiness was indeed some skilful work and I praise the Dunstable defence in the frenetic finish. AFC were also cognisant of the chance of blowing it by conceding a break away, which did not come, but it could have done.

 

Whilst it was 1-0 there was always a chance and I think that players were intent on keeping that lead and thus going on to secure the points. We heard of course that those representing Royston were winning despite having the services of their goal keeper terminated by his dismissal. The bounders prevailed 3-1 and thus keep ahead of the Blues by a four goal margin of goals conceded.

AFC retain third place by sizeable margin, but there is no denying that in losing to their arch rivals, they have made their own championship aspirations a little more distant.

 

So, Dunstable Town were avenged for their 1-0 loss in the corresponding game. Today it seemed to me that the team selected gave proper credence to how important a victory was to the Regiment. To concede a league double to AFC was seen as unacceptable, and the psychological damage could be influential on later games.

 

Importantly, the consensus was, by both sets of supporters and officials, a deserved result. Dunstable Town were the better side on the day and played their hearts out.

 

There was little gloating –since there are games still to come and they have to be played and won.

Royston will not concede anything without a severe fight. Ironically, die-hard Regimentals may well become temporary AFC supporters when Royston face AFC at Garden Walk. A draw might also do nicely, but it will be a game of equal importance of today’s domestic set-to.

 

The atmosphere in the clubhouse was equitable.

Simon Bullard, chairman of AFC spoke to me and asked me to report his comments.

‘You deserved to win’ he told me, ‘ and please state that I hope you go on to win the league.’

I agreed with his statement that ‘ this was a great day for Dunstable’ (the town, note absence of capital T.) We had all done our bit for the Don’t let Dunstable die campaign. Luton might have been at home in a vital Trophy match, but hundreds of locals had come along to show their allegiance to their teams and for all of us this was the match of the day. Players who have had separate divisions of loyalty at different times had ensured that this match was the day’s showpiece, and we may be proud of both teams’ achievements, regardless of who eventually wins the league.

 

Yes, Creasey Park had an atmosphere rivalled only by those halcyon days in the Southern Premier when near 600 attendances had seen the likes of Hitchin Town, Bedford Town, Kings Lynn and others had gone home without points.

 

Do not forget that AFC were, not so long ago languishing down the road at Totternhoe and had through their growing ability gained successive promotions and rightfully gained a place in the Spartan Premier.

 

So, that hectic conclusion to the league programme will have us in tenterhooks, with a trip to St Margaretsbury next week. Before then the Blues can demonstrate their pedigree when they face Southern Central side Leighton Town in the semi-final of the Bedfordshire Senior Cup.

 

That is a separate challenge and ought to be met full on, but no-one can blame us for seeing the top priority of replacing Royston Town at the head of the table.

 

Dunstable are joint top scorers with Royston with a magnificent 111 goals, but the Blues have conceded four more. The need to win and by a good margin is paramount but also demanding.

 

We would have taken a 1-0 win before today’s game as it is a good result against a team who have had a recent run of twelve consecutive wins.

It is also hoped that the publicity that emanates from today’s game will entice a few more locals to give it a go at Creasey Park. I end by commending the sportsmanship of AFC players and committee for their graciousness in defeat, and their willing cooperation today. It was heartwarming to me to receive so many ‘well done’ handshakes and there was not a hint of any ‘we wuz robbed’ comments.

 

No, Dunstable Town won this fairly and if narrowly in terms of the score, by edging it with the determination that a derby demands. The Cocks might crow but the Cuckoos can sing with pride at their contribution to a memorable day for Dunstable and its two senior clubs.

 

DUNSTABLE TOWN

Paul Taylor, cautioned, Mark Boyce, Daniel Mead, JACK NELLY, Blues’ man of the match, Joseph Bruce, goal, 43 minutes, cautioned, Damen Pickering, mentioned in dispatches, Peter Holmes, captain, Matthew Judge, Lee Roache, Nathan Frater, cautioned, Nicholas Jackson.

 

Substitutes used – George Brinkman and Dean Brennan. Not used – Craig Henney, Jonathan Cooper and Lee Burgoyne.

 

AFC DUNSTABLE

Nick Gardner, Wayne Mills, Kyle Lincoln, cautioned, James Baldrey, captain, cautioned, Danny Ryan, cautioned, Graeme Buchanan, Jonathan Barnett, Craig Butler, Bernie Christie, Moses Olalaye, cautioned, Tony Burnett.

 

Substitutes – Terry ‘Jay Jay’ Billy, Courtney Massey, Gareth Harnaman, Richard Harker and Hayden Wills.

Officials – all had commendable games,

Referee, John Panconi, Bedfordshire, assisted by Peter Panayiotou, London and Dave George, Hertfordshire.

[BUFC]

PREMIER DIVISION

1-0 Dunstable Town v AFC Dunstable

 

Brief report on this game from another forum

LONE STRIKE FROM BRUCE SETTLES PRESTIGIOUS DERBY CLASH

 

 

First of all, Dunstable was the winner today, and I am not talking specifically about football. This was a great day for our town, where we could boast that two of the best teams in the Spartan Premier could cross swords at Creasey Park in a vital game that could affect the promotion aspirations of both teams.

 

 

It was a much anticipated game and its interest spread much wider than usual, with certain clubs sending scouts and ground hoppers earmarking this as a must see.

 

 

Predictions were difficult, with Town, the league’s highest scorers against the meanest defence, and both clubs being in notable form, and both having recently won Team of The Month Awards.

 

AFC won the corresponding fixture 1-0, holding off a second half surge from Town, and the reverse was the case today, with Town dominating the first half and were comfortable for much of the second, giving way to a late surge from AFC that threatened to seize the result every Royston supporter would have liked – a draw.

 

A good dozen of the AFC squad had crossed the divide, after having played for Town at some time.

 

In the AFC team were former Town skipper Graeme Buchanan, along with former stalwarts Jonno Barnett and Wayne Mills. Both Lincoln brothers were in the red and white away strip for AFC, and the unpredictable Jay Jay, more formally known as Terry Billy came on as a substitute. Goalkeeper Nick Gardner and midfielder Danny Ryan were part of Dunstable Town’s very successful youth team of the past – so it was very much a Dunstable occasion.

 

One thing was certain, this was never going to be a gentle end-of-the-season going through the motions with a friendly draw gentlemanly expectation. This was a grim encounter that did need the experienced control of John Panconi.

 

A boost for the home side was the inclusion of Jack Nelly. Shane Wood was injured, as was Jonathan Cooper, although the latter was named as a substitute. Both sides were more or less at full strength and champing at the bit. AFC were on the threshold of a league double that would have theme crowing…..which brings me to another aspect of the build-up.

 

This was, according to some, the Cocks versus the Cuckoos, to use the terms bestowed by rival supporters. The Regiment of the home side were again harangued by large numbers of small boys whose repertoire of rude songs would make their mothers blush. But with a tremendous atmosphere, the slings and arrows of outrageous rivalry were in place, and with a bumper attendance of 359 we were full of eager anticipation.

 

I will say sotto voce that again the anticipation did not quite live up to the expectation. It was a gritty game, that almost dared not to be as open as we might have hoped. This was a derby where the tensions affected the players. Referee John Panconi told me that the imprecations uttered by several players reminded home of a saloon bar where bravado could soon turn to more serious recriminations.

 

But this crude psychological baiting did lessen as there was only the real option of getting on with the game and making it something of a spectacle for the best home attendance of the season for the hosts.

 

Clearly the home side were the more assured and settled – as AFC had been when they played host.

The managers of both teams had done their homework and the game was as tight as a miser’s purse – yet slowly favouring Town who were the more fluid and creative on forward moves.

 

The best chances fell to Lee Roache who tried to maximise the half chances that came his way. A heart stopping moment came when one Dunstable shot struck the foot of the post and the follow up was correctly ruled off-side, since the opportunist was clearly interfering with play.

 

With midfielders and defenders digging in, it seemed a set piece might be the most likely chance of a goal, but both sides made little of these when they did occur. Nathan Frater was shadowed effectively and when he did manage a clear shot Nick Gardner was equal to it. Dunstavle corners were generally sound but so were the heads of the likes of the bullet-headed Danny Ryan. A lob from Matthew Judge was hopeful but unproductive. Nick Jackson fought for freedom to move on the ball and he achieved this despite the frequently snapping at his heels but crosses were defended. The quality of the play was generally good with the usual nervousness affecting accurate passing at times, but Dunstable Town had improved greatly on their surprising meekness in the first game – where it took until the second half before they had the measure of their opponents.

 

 

So, the hosts probed patiently, the visitors defended in depth and the Regiment must have yearned for Lee Roache to be given the kind of opportunity to dazzle with his skills in possession and to finish with appropriate style.

 

Jack Nelly was a powerful influence and he typified the determination of his team, who were largely comfortable until the somewhat frantic closing stages where measured defence gave way to hasty clearances to the nearest space not occupied by those in white and red.

 

But the more anxious faces belonged to AFC supporters who had no near misses to ooh and aah over. If this were a chess game, it would be one of a closed variety where the more confident player manoeuvred cautiously to gain tempo.

 

Peter Holmes fired in some decent corners that were either gathered by Gardner or headed away diligently. Yet it was following a corner that the Blues finally converted - at the second attempt.

 

Roache had gained possession and in cutting in he sent a cross that Nelly rose to meet and his header struck the cross bar, with central defender Joseph Bruce squeezing his follow-up header just beyond Nick Gardner’s reach. This goal came two minutes before half-time and was deserved. The Blues had been the more fluid, more effective in their creative forward play, whereas AFC had defended stoutly but had failed to do much in counter play. That would change after half time but at a slower rate than they would have wished.

 

For me Joe Bruce’s broad smile, as broad as the white band in the home shirt was worth my nervous twitches at each missed opportunity. The first goal was always seen as a vital one, and this led was taken to the interval and the doubtless exhortations of the respective managers.

 

The consensus was that yes, the Blues had deserved this lead but everyone expected a resurgence from the visitors. They needed to be more threatening in attack and the absence of a direct shot at Paul Taylor would have caused some concern. They could not afford simply to absorb and spoil, they needed some fire up front.

 

George Brinkman came on as a substitute for Town, with Nick Jackson giving way. AFC responded later with Jay Jay, aka Terry Billy and Gareth Harnaman. But it was still not swinging the way of the visitors and nerves may have been the cause of profligate finishing, following their best approach play hitherto.

 

Creeping in insidiously were some anger inducing tackles from either side, that, thankfully was kept from escalating until we were in the throes of a frantic finish, as AFC pressed for the equaliser. I am always bemused by the antics of players who curse their opponents with such gusto and then are seen in the clubhouse afterwards the best of pals.

 

Moses Olayeye, another alumnus of Dunstable Town exhibited his skill as well as his capacity for invective, sent one way over the bar, kep[eping the young scamps behind the bar active in ball retrieval from the packed car park. Wayne Mills, another former Blue gained some momentum in his work on the flanks and one of his crosses was only just cleared by the towering Nelly. Frater won a free kick on a promising position and this was delayed a little whilst Mr Panconi at the behest of one of his colleagues lectured one or two miscreants, who of course had the cherubic faces and the usual, ‘who me ref?’

 

The free kick brought two successive corners for AFC who seemed to getting closer and closer to fazing the veteran Taylor who, as usual met the demands of his task , utilising his skill and experience as one who has indeed seen it all before. In fact both goal keepers played a vital role, and Gardner of AFC was literally at some pain after the game.

With the normally pesky BJ Christie held in check, there was a promising shot from Burnett that went wide and it was this player who forced Tylor into making what really was a match saving stop right at the end. With JJ awkwardly wasting his best moment, we wondered when the end would come. The referee noted fully Taylor’s studied goal- kicks where he took his time – until he was told that wasted time would be added. At least there was none of that silly messing about by the corner flag. Both teams were in fact, generally honest in their endeavours throughout.

 

One good move from the hosts saw Bruce and Roache exchange quick passes but Judge had strayed off-side. Dean Brennan replaced Mark Boyce for the closing stage, but an added highlight for me was the sound performance of Damen Pickering – named by the referee as his choice for man of the match. A later attack for the Blues saw Peter Holmes set up for a chance, denied by yet another former Blue – the evergreen Graeme Buchanan, a defender who would be the welcome addition to any team.

 

With time running out AFC sensed that they would have to risk leaving gaps and go for the equaliser. They mounted a purposeful number of forward moves and they were not all thwarted legitimately, yet resulting free kicks were nondescript. Not so was the melee of players who gathered following a bit of questionable play from Kyle Lincoln.

 

Taylor sprinted out to the wing where this was occurring to add his opinions and he was cautioned long with Lincoln. In terms of the importance of the match we were quite fortunate that this was the only real moment where it seemed handbags might be raised. The incident was sufficiently minor as not to warrant the intrusion the large numbers of players.

 

AFC had simply left their best work too late, as Dunstable did in the first game. They had no proved able to have a really commanding spell and often played into the feet of Blues defenders, whose often inelegant clearances were safe yet hardly full of composure. But AFC could not capitalise. It is excusable to take an anywhere will do clearance rather than seek to be artistic, as who would want to be blamed for giving a goal away with an attempt at showboating defending.

 

Even the best professional sides paid more than is warranted can fall to such pieces of desperation.

Among these pieces of hastiness was indeed some skilful work and I praise the Dunstable defence in the frenetic finish. AFC were also cognisant of the chance of blowing it by conceding a break away, which did not come, but it could have done.

 

Whilst it was 1-0 there was always a chance and I think that players were intent on keeping that lead and thus going on to secure the points. We heard of course that those representing Royston were winning despite having the services of their goal keeper terminated by his dismissal. The bounders prevailed 3-1 and thus keep ahead of the Blues by a four goal margin of goals conceded.

AFC retain third place by sizeable margin, but there is no denying that in losing to their arch rivals, they have made their own championship aspirations a little more distant.

 

So, Dunstable Town were avenged for their 1-0 loss in the corresponding game. Today it seemed to me that the team selected gave proper credence to how important a victory was to the Regiment. To concede a league double to AFC was seen as unacceptable, and the psychological damage could be influential on later games.

 

Importantly, the consensus was, by both sets of supporters and officials, a deserved result. Dunstable Town were the better side on the day and played their hearts out.

 

There was little gloating –since there are games still to come and they have to be played and won.

Royston will not concede anything without a severe fight. Ironically, die-hard Regimentals may well become temporary AFC supporters when Royston face AFC at Garden Walk. A draw might also do nicely, but it will be a game of equal importance of today’s domestic set-to.

 

The atmosphere in the clubhouse was equitable.

Simon Bullard, chairman of AFC spoke to me and asked me to report his comments.

‘You deserved to win’ he told me, ‘ and please state that I hope you go on to win the league.’

I agreed with his statement that ‘ this was a great day for Dunstable’ (the town, note absence of capital T.) We had all done our bit for the Don’t let Dunstable die campaign. Luton might have been at home in a vital Trophy match, but hundreds of locals had come along to show their allegiance to their teams and for all of us this was the match of the day. Players who have had separate divisions of loyalty at different times had ensured that this match was the day’s showpiece, and we may be proud of both teams’ achievements, regardless of who eventually wins the league.

 

Yes, Creasey Park had an atmosphere rivalled only by those halcyon days in the Southern Premier when near 600 attendances had seen the likes of Hitchin Town, Bedford Town, Kings Lynn and others had gone home without points.

 

Do not forget that AFC were, not so long ago languishing down the road at Totternhoe and had through their growing ability gained successive promotions and rightfully gained a place in the Spartan Premier.

 

So, that hectic conclusion to the league programme will have us in tenterhooks, with a trip to St Margaretsbury next week. Before then the Blues can demonstrate their pedigree when they face Southern Central side Leighton Town in the semi-final of the Bedfordshire Senior Cup.

 

That is a separate challenge and ought to be met full on, but no-one can blame us for seeing the top priority of replacing Royston Town at the head of the table.

 

Dunstable are joint top scorers with Royston with a magnificent 111 goals, but the Blues have conceded four more. The need to win and by a good margin is paramount but also demanding.

 

We would have taken a 1-0 win before today’s game as it is a good result against a team who have had a recent run of twelve consecutive wins.

It is also hoped that the publicity that emanates from today’s game will entice a few more locals to give it a go at Creasey Park. I end by commending the sportsmanship of AFC players and committee for their graciousness in defeat, and their willing cooperation today. It was heartwarming to me to receive so many ‘well done’ handshakes and there was not a hint of any ‘we wuz robbed’ comments.

 

No, Dunstable Town won this fairly and if narrowly in terms of the score, by edging it with the determination that a derby demands. The Cocks might crow but the Cuckoos can sing with pride at their contribution to a memorable day for Dunstable and its two senior clubs.

 

DUNSTABLE TOWN

Paul Taylor, cautioned, Mark Boyce, Daniel Mead, JACK NELLY, Blues’ man of the match, Joseph Bruce, goal, 43 minutes, cautioned, Damen Pickering, mentioned in dispatches, Peter Holmes, captain, Matthew Judge, Lee Roache, Nathan Frater, cautioned, Nicholas Jackson.

 

Substitutes used – George Brinkman and Dean Brennan. Not used – Craig Henney, Jonathan Cooper and Lee Burgoyne.

 

AFC DUNSTABLE

Nick Gardner, Wayne Mills, Kyle Lincoln, cautioned, James Baldrey, captain, cautioned, Danny Ryan, cautioned, Graeme Buchanan, Jonathan Barnett, Craig Butler, Bernie Christie, Moses Olalaye, cautioned, Tony Burnett.

 

Substitutes – Terry ‘Jay Jay’ Billy, Courtney Massey, Gareth Harnaman, Richard Harker and Hayden Wills.

Officials – all had commendable games,

Referee, John Panconi, Bedfordshire, assisted by Peter Panayiotou, London and Dave George, Hertfordshire.

 

Thats not a report its a novel!

[Winslow Boy]

Seems our res acquitted themselves well against yet another 1st team! Doesn't seem right to me but there you go. Apparently our young midfielder scored from 60 yards.

[bicknell]

Good win for us but it was far from easy . Tik tok arrived at 2.30 and put a very strong side out as they have a lot of players back , they was the much better team in first half , I made 2 changes at half time and we come out stronger but still not great then tyrone got the winner with 10 min left , our keeper Tom got well deserved mom

[Rhodes]

our keeper Tom got well deserved mom

I wonder who voted for him!

[Winslow Boy]

Good win for us but it was far from easy . Tik tok arrived at 2.30 and put a very strong side out as they have a lot of players back , they was the much better team in first half , I made 2 changes at half time and we come out stronger but still not great then tyrone got the winner with 10 min left , our keeper Tom got well deserved mom

Good win mate especially since they put out a strong side. Really pleased you did em

[ref off ref]

In truth Tokynton beat themselves and admitted so after, as CB said they were the better side from the off but just before half time when we equalised their discipline went straight out the window, not only were they on the Ref's back but they started arguing amongst themselves.

It was a scrap for us and in the end we got the win, but Tokynton pressing the self destruct button was a major contribution.

On the football side tho they were top draw