Flavovespia Domestic Sports Newswire

by **Flavovespia** » Mon Nov 04, 2019 2:18 pm

Introducing the Flavovespia Domestic Sports Newswire

This is a Domestic Sports Newswire for all sports in Flavovespia. The main focus will be in Football, mainly the top-flight Super League but with some discussion on the Challenge League and Western/Eastern League, with the first 5 tiers scorinated. Other sports may be added in the future. Please don't post here unless I have given prior permission to do so.

by **Flavovespia** » Mon Nov 04, 2019 2:21 pm

Super League Season 27

After the excitement of Season 26, the off-season and international football, 27AU promises to bring yet another exciting season of Super League action. As usual 16 teams will play 30 games each, home and away against all other teams, for the Super League. At the other end, 3 teams will be relegated to the Challenge League.

Croxlich FC

Back after 2 years in the Challenge League, the east coast side will look to try and establish themselves in the Super League, after their last stint lasted only 2 seasons. The team haven’t ever been considered one of the traditional stalwarts of Flavovespian football, but nevertheless they can’t be estimated by anyone in this up and coming season.

Key player: Christopher Johnson. A standout striker in the Challenge League last season, helping Croxlich win promotion, including some crucial clutch goals at the end of the season. His partner up-front Patrick Turner moves to Binclestead Wood FC, so it’ll be up to the 22 year old, alongside Victor Cooke from Carston Green FC, to continue his Challenge League scoring form in the Super League. Hopefully he can realise his potential in the top flight.

One to watch: Aarif Muhammad. It’s all change in goal for Croxlich. Anthony Hocking left to join Butterfield Rovers. Ernest Hunter was signed on a free transfer from Sporting Towerhaite and took the #1 jersey. However there’s speculation that the starting goalkeeper for Croxlich may be the 18 year old Aarif Muhammad. If he does get the nod to go between the sticks, he’ll be one of the youngest Super League goalkeepers for a while, but certainly he showed a commanding presence in the youth leagues.

Kit: A team that’s been through many shades of blue over the years, and they’ve gone with a kit to celebrate that. The light blue body, with white collar and cuffs has a blue three-tone stripe along both sides of the body. A striking effect, but one that has apparently gone down really well with both Croxlich fans, and the wider Flavovespian footballing world. The away kit is of the same template, but with a white body. Both kits have shorts and socks of the same colour as the tops, and a navy blue set of shorts and socks is also available for use.

South Maishop FC

The underdogs made it back to the Super League again. It’s hard to believe it’s now coming up to 20 years since that miraculous day South Maishop won the Challenge League playoffs to become the smallest ever side to appear in the Super League. Since then the small town in the mountains has made some sporadic Super League appearances, and will once again look to turn heads with some upsets.

Key player: Kevin Bradley. A robust centre-back, now a professional for 10 years at South Maishop FC. Bradley has always been at the heart of the defence, a fierce tackler and a strong header, causing many Challenge League attackers to fall by the wayside against South Maishop. Now he’ll line up as a starting centre-back against some of Flavovespia’s finest strikers, and will look to give South Maishop some confidence at the back, to grind out those important points newly promoted sides need.

One to watch: Lucky Diamond. Guildwell Football had a torrid time last ever, but a few of their players shone in the Super League. Flamboyant goalkeeper Lucky Diamond, only 19 years of age last season, was one of those, and some were surprised he only joined a side with the stature of South Maishop. However, despite the #12 jersey, he’ll almost certainly be a starting goalkeeper, and will look to live up to his potential, and make South Maishop a team to be tough to score against.

Kit: Navy blue and red horizontal stripes are the traditional colours of South Maishop, and they’ve delivered this year with a kit based on that template. The colours have a more subdued tone to them, so they don’t “pop-out” so to speak, but this gives it a more classic feel. A white collar and trim is also on the shirt, and the shorts and socks are navy blue. The away kit is a smart, all-white affair, but the navy blue and red trim works well. All in all a good set of kits for a return to the Super League.

Binclestead Wood FC

25 years of Super League football came to an end, and last season Binclestead Wood were playing second tier football, a site a whole generation had never experienced. They won the division, but even then the owner and manager weren’t happy both with each other and some of the players, and caused an unnecessary amount of off-field and sometimes on-field drama.

Key player: Christopher Ace. Binclestead Wood FC went wild in the off-season, and only have 11/25 of their players in their roster in the squad this time last season. Ace though is one of them. At just 22, he’s a pacey winger who can dominate the right-wing, and contribute with crosses and shots. An ever-present threat in the Challenge League, he will look to give the Super League defenders a run for their money. Showed glimpses of that potential 2 seasons ago in the Super League, and last year in the Challenge League was his breakout year.

One to watch: Robert Totten. If Ace is the hot winger on the right, then Totten will look to ramp up the heat on the left. Last season he got extended runs in the team, what with some of the chaos going on despite promotion. Not one of the players sold off, he’s now in the #7 jersey, and may very well become an established starter, and a threat from the midfield. If Totten can keep up with Ace, expect Binclestead Wood to be an exciting team to watch.

Kit: Binclestead Wood go for a black shirt, rather than a halved affair which they sporadically use. This time the main detail is the white “sailor scarf” style pattern, over the top of the body. It’s not a bad design, but kind of suffers from being either too large, or too small depending on opinions. White shorts and black shorts are the default, but black shorts and white socks have also been registered as an option. The away kit is an all-green affair in the same template, with darker green shorts and socks. Not the most conventional colour choice for Binclestead Wood FC, but certainly not the worst away kit they’ve had.

Sporting Towerhaite

A bit of a yo-yo team, Sporting Towerhaite will now have their 5th season in the Super League, but once again they were in a relegation battle last year. One of the teams just outside the capital of Waldster, Sporting Towerhaite haven’t ever quite found the method to jump from perennial relegation candidates to an established mid table side, and once gain many tip them as a team to go down again.

Key player: Garry Henderson. At 32, one of the older players in the team, and the captain of Sporting Towerhaite. The midfielder is a creator, and responsible for a lot of the assists for the side. He’s not afraid to get stuck in for challenges, but has a maturity to his play that age and experience brings. His leadership and smart play could prove crucial if Sporting Towerhaite got into a relegation fight.

One to watch: Richard Doughty. Marc Sharratt was the star striker for Sporting Towerhaite, and was sold to St Astons City. Now 20 year old Richard Doughty, who impressed last season when he got himself onto the teamsheet for the majority of games, will look to kick it up a gear. He could have the potential to do so, and hopefully for the fans he’ll show it this year.

Kit: Their beige (or ecru as it is sometimes known as) is a notorious colour that is difficult to work with. Nevertheless this time the thinly striped affair works relatively well in the opinion of the author. The kit isn’t trying to do too much, but at the same time has something to it, unlike a few previous elements. Black shorts and socks are the default, but there’s a beige set of those available. The away kit follows the same template, but uses all-white with beige detailing. Arguably this looks neater, and is a decent choice. That said, as with many Sporting Towerhaite away kits, it’s not likely to see many outings

Vale FC

Another outer Waldster side, Vale FC have also developed a yo-yo reputation, and will most likely start as relegation candidates again. They were newly promoted last season, and stayed up, eventually being quite clear of the relegation zone. Vale FC haven’t really had a season where they’ve unexpectedly delivered and shot up the table, and fans are hopeful for that to come to fruition one day.

Key player: Keith Baker. A legend for Vale FC, he was first introduced to the team way back in 8AU, at just 16 years old. Now he begins this season at the age of 35, having spent his entire career in the midfield of Vale. His age may mean his pace and acceleration isn’t what it used to be, but he can still make those dangerous passes, and will look to be the creator of the side. As captain he’ll also be keen to keep morale high and a good league position as well.

One to watch: Alan Holdsworth. Vale are not blessed with much youth in their ranks. However they took the opportunity to sign Holdsworth, now 20, on a free transfer, when the teenager didn’t have his contract renewed at Carston Green, with the rumour that relegation was the reason. Holdsworth is likely to be a starter in central midfield alongside Baker, and will look to provide a youthful energy to complement the veteran alongside him.

Kit: The bold penguin kit returns again. Nobody can mistake the amber and purple of Vale, and they’ve been combined well here to produce a popular kit. The home kit is paired up with purple shorts and socks, the only team with those in the Super League. Away from home, the penguin template is used in a black and white format. The colour combination is nothing special, but the kit does the job. The away shorts and socks registered are white.

Bavingtor FC

The remarkable title of 24AU is still in the minds of the fans and players who remain at Bavingtor FC. However having not been able to successfully build off of that, Bavingtor will continue to look at making sure they’re well away from relegation battles, and to try and keep their team working well together. It’s their 4th season in their current Super League stint, which the fans who saw a newly-promoted side win a title don’t need reminding.

Key player: David Meehan. Pretty much considered the top goalkeeper in Flavovespia. Maybe in the international game he didn’t always shine, but domestically, it’s been very hard to fault him in recent seasons. With him between the sticks, Bavingtor should be confident of not conceding excessively, and Meehan could prove to be the difference between winning or not in some games.

One to watch: Mark Paul. Bavingtor’s squad doesn’t appear to have the standout young players that some other clubs post. Nevertheless, as a striker and right winger, Mark Paul put in some solid performances when given chances last season, and could be especially dangerous off the bench. Not the most technically skilled player, but one who will absolutely leave weary legs for dead if given a chance, and his number is not one opposition defenders will love to see go up on the 4th official board.

Kit: The shirt is white, but features wing-like motifs, both from a front on view and along the sleeves. A clever effect playing on the aeronautical history of Bavingtor, the team of course being nicknamed the flyers. Black shorts and white shorts are the standard, but a reversal of those 2 colours is also registered. For the away kit, Bavingtor further celebrate their aviation history with the yellow and bright green of the airport and aeronautical business of the area. A bold combination, not least given semi-pro Bavingtor Airport FC use those colours, but it’s been popular in the area. Green shorts and yellow socks finish off the kit.

St Astons City FC

A season where nothing could go right for them last year, resulting in a managerial sacking. St Astons City are one of the traditional Big 3 of Flavovespia, but there’s not been a Super League victory since 17AU for the Saints, and only a Flavovespia Gold Cup victory a few years back is all the fans have had to cheer. For the fans, they’ll be hoping to pull themselves from a slump to try and re-establish themselves as a top team.

Key player: Guoliang Fu. The striker got a handful of caps for Flavovespia, and didn’t look that out of place in international football. Often deployed as more of a second striker or winger, he gets many opportunities with a quick cut back or turn. Sometimes unplayable for defenders, and a threat up front for the Saints. With Marc Sharratt coming in, it will be interesting to watch the front 2 of St Astons City FC in action

One to watch: Marc Sharratt. The aforementioned striker was a £21m signing from Sporting Towerhaite this transfer window. Much more of an old-school central striker, his link up play with Fu and tenacity in front of goal could create a dangerous combination, that new manager Charlie Holton will hope brings some success back to the Saints.

Kit: The golden cross motif returns again, albeit in a more arched style. The cross reside on the lower portion of the torso, as opposed to some previous designs. Some like it, but critics see it as trying to reinvent the wheel, and the golden sleeves haven’t been particularly well received. Navy shorts and socks finish off the home kit. The away kit is a simple all white affair, with a subtle navy blue trim. Relatively well received by critics and fans alike, it looks sleek and professional.

Butterfield Rovers FC

A decade now in the Super League, Butterfield Rovers FC have managed to establish themselves as a mid-table outfit. The team aren’t quite at the level of the team that nearly won the Super League, but they can still be a formidable opponent. With a new stadium potentially in the works, the team will be looking at consolidation and a potential move into the Top 8.

Key player: Anthony Crouch. Playing a 4-3-3 requires a dominant figure in the centre of midfield. 29 year old Anthony Crouch is just that for Butterfield Rovers. A real hustler, he can disrupt the opposition midfield with ease, never quite crossing the line, and can always seemingly get the ball from danger and to the feet of a player in orange. At his peak, he’ll hope to bring Butterfield Rovers back to some of the better days of yesteryear.

One to watch: Michael McGarry. At 20, he’s never been a big feature for Butterfield Rovers, but last year got a fair number of starts and sub appearances. Looking relatively composed on the ball, with decent short range passing, McGarry could find this season is the one he gets his chance to be an established Super League starter.

Kit: Butterfield Rovers have gone for a very unconventional route on their “white vs black” debate. Both colours occupy the kit equally, one on each sleeve and down the side. This features extends to the orange shorts and socks. The kit has been seen as controversial, some appreciate it’s originality, others think it just looks plain wrong. The away kit sees the same template used, but with orange sleeves and a halved body. A black and a white pair of shorts and socks are registered, with black officially the first choice, but the orange home pairs could be used with the away shirt. Another controversial choice for away kit, not least as some think it’s too similar to past Binclestead Wood FC kits, with Butterfield Rovers fans not holding them in high regard at all.

Kings Lunsel FC

A poor title defence was somewhat offset by lifting the Flavovespia Gold Cup last season, and with it some valuable prize money. Famous for their fierce rivals with current Challenge League side Abbots Lunsel, sometimes considered the most unfriendly rivalry in the nation. A team never relegated from the modern Super League, they should look towards the top end of the table, and maybe grab an international club tournament spot via the league route.

Key player: Tony Gardner. The 23 year old defender seemed to be an unusual call up to the national side, but managed to make an extended run in the side, and is well poised for future caps. A central defender with good skills on the ball and the potential to also play in midfield if need be, he already looks a fine player for the Kings, and there may yet be more to come.

One to watch: Mark Paddock. Although Kings Lunsel have many registered strikers, age is becoming of many of them. Paddock at 20 isn’t very experienced in the Super League, but has found the net a few times. It’s hard to tell if he’ll make it as a Super League starter at Kings Lunsel, but at the very worst he’d probably make it as a Super League Journeyman.

Kit: A black and white striped shirt with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. The choice of stripes on the sleeves to run vertically down the sleeve and not continue the torso stripes, and the thickness of the stripes could be discussed, but really, it’s a pretty standard Kings Lunsel FC shirt. The away kit is an all-blue affair, with some white trim. Nothing too complex, it’s a decent shirt, and with a fair number of white or black kits, it’ll probably get a fair few outings this season.

Hadford Hill FC

The wounds of that dramatic collapse in the last decade, when they went from those 7 titles in 13 seasons to twice being relegated out of the Super League, still look to haunt the Reds. Traditionally one of the Big 3, Hadford Hill FC haven’t won the Super League or League Cup since 13AU, and the Flavovespia Gold Cup since 12AU. The teams recent past is not a great era, and currently they’re hoping for some sort of revival.

Key player: Steven Hall. There’s zero doubt who would be the key player for Hadford Hill. The raumdeuter who was one of the stars, if not the star of the Flavovespia team in their first World Cup Qualifying and Cup of Harmony Campaign, Hall is a delight to watch. Seemingly able to create chances either for himself or his teammates out of thin air, Hall has all the makings of a player who could achieve international and worldwide recognition, with the joint highest goals for Flavovespia. One hopes he can win some domestic silverware, as he truly deserves it.

One to watch: Robert Falconer. Another tricky choice, Hadford Hill don’t have many 21 and under players in their 25 man rosters. Defender Falconer has shown the most promise of those at youth level, and was promoted to the full side at just 18. Appearances might be scarce though this season, so it’s unlikely Hadford Hill will see a youth breakthrough this season.

Kit: A kit that gives us something to talk about, there’s a lot more white trim on it than many previous seasons. Some like the somewhat retro feel of it, others say it’s simply far too much white, and almost looks like something a team who wear white not red usually would have. The home kit is matched up with the traditional red shorts and red socks. The away kit is a simple red and white switch, common for Hadford Hill. The kit was confirmed by the FFA, so there’s no threat of kit clash issues against a team in white, which a few suggested.

Marthorpe City FC

Marthorpe City FC also have 7 Super League titles in the modern era, like their neighbours Hadford Hill FC. Quite harshly considered a “plastic club” or a “fake club” by many, due to their controversial introduction to the GWNFA back in the classic era, the team have built themselves a reputation for success in the modern era, even if the stereotype of being nouveau riche hasn’t shaken off. Last season’s 6th place was a disappointment, and the team’s hierarchy expect better.

Key player: Ronald Maddox. The left wing back is always a presence in defence and when getting down the wing to provide attacks. Played well for Flavovespia after playing internationally in his natural position, instead of as a left back. His trademark fierce left-footed cross from the deep will be sure to catch out a few sides this season, who don’t adequately close him down and give him too much time to run and cross.

One to watch: David Blythe. Now 20, the defender showed promise when playing for an otherwise disappointing Carston Green last season. This time around, after a £13m move to Marthorpe City, he should be a starting defender in a team with aspirations of UICA football. Hopefully his transfer fee isn’t an unlucky sign, David Blythe certainly seems confident about his abilities in the media, and many in the media suggested he had promising technique last year.

Kit: A black kit with gold trim for Marthorpe City. The torso has a subtle gold spot pattern, designed to “invoke the city lights in the nights” according to the marketing at the kit release. A good design to a lot of fans, even if the marketing is a bit forced. Black shorts and socks with gold trim are the default, with a gold set registered if needed. The away kit is a plain light blue shirt with blue trim, and blue shorts and socks. Nothing spectacular, and the shoulder trim looks a little bit unusual, but it’s a functional away kit. At the very least, it’s not a white away kit, after the frustration that caused last season for a few other teams.

Apsbrooke FC

Apsbrooke, a small town making up part of the Yellowfields region of Flavovespia, struck gold with some good signings last season, and surprised many with a 5th place in the league. Not a traditional heavyweight at all, spending most of their history, classic and modern in the 2nd tier, Apsbrooke FC can really punch high above their weight at times. Whether or not they can do it this season remains to be seen, but the announcement of a new stadium shows ambition by the club.

Key player: Conor Harrington. It was tough to choose between the two Apsbrooke veterans who made it into the Flavovespia side, but Harirngton looks like the one with the higher longevity. The veteran goalkeeper seemed to be past his peak when released from Wadster and he signed for Apsbrooke. However he proved to be one of the top keepers in the Super League, pushing Apsbrooke up the table, and has been capped 7 times now. That number probably won’t increase, but he still has a part to play for Flavovespia.

One to watch: Alastair Ross. Ross had a strong performance alongside John Calvert in the heart of the Apsbrooke defence that surprised many. With Calvert getting closer to retirement, Ross looks set to continue to develop, and potentially become the leader of the defence of Apsbrooke, or maybe even a bigger side if he improves a lot. A promising young defender, one who could don the Flavovespia colours in the near future.

Kit: A simple all yellow affair, with some black trim, that extends from the shirt onto the shorts. Nothing spectacular in the design department, but it works pretty well as an overall package. It’s reused from the previous season, a decision praised by fans, especially as the kit has happy memories for the team. The away kit is a reversal of colours, similar to what a few other teams have done.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC

4th place and then a Flavovespia Gold Cup loss was somewhat of a letdown after a promising season. On the south east corner of the nation, Loxthorpe Rovers FC have always played in the modern Super League. However despite a lot of cup success in recent seasons, they are now 22 years without a title. There’ll certainly be jubilation in the streets of Loxthorpe if they can finally do it after over two decades, but it won’t be at all easy.

Key player: Stephen Moore – The right-back is hitting his prime at the age of 26, and performed well for Flavovespia in the recent internationals, with the potential to be a starter for the national side for a fair few years. At club level, he shut downs the attacks down the flanks from opposition players, and can also even turn provider for his own side at times.

One to watch: Ernest Cliff. Only 21, but given the #4 shirt last season, and he showed some strong performances at times, and a lot of promise. A solid centre-back, tough to get around and can also be a strong asset from headers at both ends of the pitch, Cliff will look to score goals and stop goals being conceded. With good performances, he could be an integral part of the Loxthorpe Rovers and maybe even Flavovespia national team.

Kit: An unusual kit choice from Loxthorpe Rovers this year. The traditional green and white stripes and gold trim are retained, but largely blocked out with a solid green panel on the chest, and white sleeves. A few fans reacted positively, but others seemed a bit baffled by the selection. Green shorts and white and green hooped socks go with the home kit. Away from home, and it’s a red and black for green and white palette swap. An unusual choice of away colours, Loxthorpe Rovers tending to go with gold or black, but one that does work well with the template.

Waldster FC

Waldster, one of the traditional Big 3, and as the fans say, the one who hasn’t ever been relegated. However in the modern era it took them until the year 21AU to finally win a Super League, but they followed it up next year with a domestic treble. Last season they could have potentially won it on the final day. Although results elsewhere took it beyond their control, a spectacular 5-2 loss at Butterfield Rovers FC cost them 2nd as well, and a new match was added to their ever-growing list of big blunders.

Key player: John Lawler. Although Flavovespia had 3 Waldster players in the World Cup qualifiers, they largely struggled. It’s the record signing John Lawler from Butterfield Rovers who has attracted the most attention of the Waldster roster. Set to try and boost the ageing attack of Waldster FC, there is a lot of pressure on him. However, his goalscoring record has been impressive his whole career, with a solid shot and accurate header, always a danger to the opposition if he can get the ball in the box.

One to watch: Michael Cole. The son of Nick Cole, the Flavovespia National Team manager. At just 16 years of age, it’s always a sign of talent when someone that young is called into the final 25 man roster. However his record at youth level for scoring and assists is spectacular, and he’s always looked far above his age on the pitch. Will he get many starts, with the age of some of the Waldster attack? Only time will tell

Kit: It’s a yellow shirt (as usual), with a black collar and halved black sleeves. Nothing too special, but of course if it’s a title winning shirt, it will be fondly remembered by the fans. The shirt is reversed in palette for the away kit. Both home and away kits have black shorts and socks as a default, with a yellow alternative available.

Langmere Green Rovers FC

Never relegated in the modern era, but also never champions. Langmere Green Rovers FC had a good run at the end to take 2nd place, and also get international club football, something their nearby rivals Loxthorpe Rovers FC didn’t achieve. A team that’s always seemed a little bit overshadowed by their rivals, and sometimes ignored by the Flavovespian footballing world, Langmere Green Rovers FC are hoping that they can take that one final step to the top. They won 2 consecutive Flavovespia Gold Cups in 24AU and 25AU, and the team wants to ride on that wave of success.

Key player: Ramon Martin. Slightly less caps then teammate Henrik Jensen, but Martin is the big figure for Langmere Green Rovers. At international level he didn’t quite have that clinical cutting edge. However at club level, he’s an ever present danger for defenders. A quick turn of pace can easily draw a foul in dangerous territory, and he gets many goals off of good positioning to create the easy chances. At 29 now, he’ll be looking to help Langmere Green Rovers to an inaugural Super League title.

One to watch: Alistair McKinley. At 20, the young defender who can play across the back line, will definitely be looking to get more starts off the bench and as a general utility player. Not one with an obvious style yet for a defender, his development will be interesting to watch. With the right development path he could be a solid starter for Langmere Green Rovers

Kit: Sadly the rebranding hasn’t brought about a good kit yet. The green and dark-green lightning sash by itself isn’t too bad, but the pale green sleeves just spoil the kit. The all-white shorts and socks also have a similar lightning pattern around the edges. The away kit is an all-grey palette swap of the all-white kit, a nod to the time Langmere Green Rovers wore grey. However it doesn’t work at all well with the green shades. An alternate pair of socks and shorts in black are available.

Stanmorn FC

After years of being a yo-yo club in the early years of the modern era, then winning the 15AU, 17AU and 18AU Flavovespia Gold Cup, Stanmorn FC dreamed of bigger and better things. Their peak seemed to have passed, but after 3rd place in 25AU, Stanmorn FC finally eclipsed all the outer Waldster sides, Waldster FC themselves, and the nation to win the Super League in 26AU. Euphoria flooded the city with their first ever Super League title, and with it international football qualification. Now the big question for Stanmorn FC is, can they do it again and build a legacy?

Key player: James King. Scott Coleman was the breakout start, and Andrew Mason was strong up fromt for Flavovespia, but for the leadership and midfield tenacity that James King brings both to Stanmorn and Flavovespia, he is the key player. In a setup that puts pressure on the midfield, King absolutely excelled for Stanmorn, finding the right player with the right pass with brilliant regularity. Very much a head up player as well, it’s rare for him to lose possession, and knows when to play it safe. Teams can often be caught out with him sending a lovely lofted through ball completely past the defence.

One to watch: Neal Gandhi. The strong Stanmorn youth sides of yesteryear progressed up the ranks, and Neal Gandhi is one of thoses. At just 19 last year, he got many starts as a right wing-back, eventually becoming the starter there. Very pacey, and with a lot of stamina, he can work the right flank for 90 minutes. A little bit more work on the defensive side of the game and his technique, and he could be one of Flavovespia’s best wing backs.

Kit: Stanmorn have continued with the “royal blue” shade used in a few recent seasons. This time, a white sash adorned with a gold edge covers the shirt, to great effect. Nicknamed the “champions sash”, the shirt has gone down well with the fans. The same shirt design is used for the gold away kit, with a switch around of the colours. White shorts and blue socks go with the home kit and blue shorts and gold socks go with the away kit. Blue shorts and white socks are also a registered option.

Code: Select all: OOC: This season canonically happens between WC83 & AOCAF 59

by **Flavovespia** » Wed Nov 06, 2019 9:27 am

Matchday 1
Vale FC 1–1 Croxlich FC
Kings Lunsel FC 3–0 Bavingtor FC
Sporting Towerhaite 1–5 Hadford Hill FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–0 Marthorpe City FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 5–3 Binclestead Wood FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–1 Waldster FC
Stanmorn FC 3–2 St Astons City FC
Apsbrooke FC 1–2 South Maishop FC

The opening game of Friday Night Football saw defending champions Stanmorn begin with a 3-2 victory over St Astons City, in an exciting game. However the performance of the weekend was a 1-5 victory for Hadford Hill at Sporting Towerhaite. South Maishop returned to the Super League with an away win at last season’s surprise outfit of Apsbrooke. Loxthorpe Rovers and Waldster also drew in a match between two teams tipped to do well.

Matchday 2
Croxlich FC 1–1 South Maishop FC
St Astons City FC 0–0 Apsbrooke FC
Waldster FC 3–2 Stanmorn FC
Binclestead Wood FC 0–1 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Marthorpe City FC 2–2 Butterfield Rovers FC
Hadford Hill FC 0–2 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Bavingtor FC 3–1 Sporting Towerhaite
Vale FC 3–1 Kings Lunsel FC

Langmere Green Rovers are the only team now with a perfect start, taking a 2 goal win at Highland Road. Elsewhere Waldster got a 3-2 victory over their neighbours Stanmorn, in potentially a key matchup. Binclestead Wood and Sporting Towerhaite remain pointless after 2 games gone in this season.

Matchday 3
Kings Lunsel FC 0–0 Croxlich FC
Sporting Towerhaite 1–1 Vale FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–4 Bavingtor FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 3–3 Hadford Hill FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0–1 Marthorpe City FC
Stanmorn FC 3–1 Binclestead Wood FC
Apsbrooke FC 1–5 Waldster FC
South Maishop FC 1–2 St Astons City FC

Waldster impressed the most this matchday, with a dominant win on the road at Apsbrooke. A loss for Langmere Green Rovers allowed Waldster to go top. They are unbeaten with 2 wins and a draw. Butterfield Rovers and Vale are also unbeaten but with only the 1 win, and Corxlich have returned to the Super League with 3 draws. A cluster of teams are on a 1-1-1 record, including Hadford Hill, St Astons City, Marthorpe City and Loxthorpe Rovers.

Matchday 4
Croxlich FC 5–2 St Astons City FC
Waldster FC 1–2 South Maishop FC
Binclestead Wood FC 3–1 Apsbrooke FC
Marthorpe City FC 2–1 Stanmorn FC
Hadford Hill FC 2–3 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Bavingtor FC 3–0 Butterfield Rovers FC
Vale FC 3–2 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Kings Lunsel FC 5–3 Sporting Towerhaite
Waldster came in top of the Super League, but suffered a surprise 1-2 loss to South Maishop, on live TV. The result allowed Bavingtor to go top after the Matchday, with their 3-0 over nearby Butterfield Rovers. Losses for St Astons City and Hadford Hill left them very close to the relegation zone, although it is only early days.

Matchday 5
Sporting Towerhaite 3–1 Croxlich FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 4–1 Kings Lunsel FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 0–0 Vale FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–4 Bavingtor FC
Stanmorn FC 1–3 Hadford Hill FC
Apsbrooke FC 3–4 Marthorpe City FC
South Maishop FC 0–1 Binclestead Wood FC
St Astons City FC 3–0 Waldster FC

In the big game of the Matchday, St Astons City took an important 3-0 over rivals Waldster. The win got them up to 8th in the Super League, equal on points to rivals Hadford Hill and Waldster. Bavingtor kept their position at the top with a 1-4 win. 2nd was Marthorpe with 3 consecutive wins, the latest against Apsbrooke. The surprise outfit of last season however, find themselves bottom on just 1 point after 5 games. Binclestead Wood and Sporting Towerhaite are the other 2 sides in the relegation zone.

In the Challenge League, a remarkable Matchday saw all 8 matches won by the home side. Hopford are the surprise leaders, with 4 wins and 1 draw. They’ve only scored 6 goals, but have conceded none at all in their first 5 league games. Relegated Guildwell Football are 2nd in the promotion zone, with still a lot to play for. Some of the favourites though, such as Carston Green, Henhaven Islanders and Abbots Lunsel, are in the bottom half, and in the latter’s case, the relegation zone.

In the Western League, North Mayshop meet early season expectations, currently leading the division. Not so good for the previously relegated Old Marthorpe, who find themselves in the relegation zone, and keen to avoid a double relegation. In the Eastern League, the 2 relegated sides, Oxwich and Carstwood, lie 1st and 2nd respectively. Newly promoted Queens FC have started well to find themselves in a playoff spot.

Table after MD5:

Code: Select all: Super League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Bavingtor FC 5 4 0 1 14 7 +7 12 2 Marthorpe City FC 5 3 1 1 9 8 +1 10 3 Langmere Green Rovers FC 5 3 0 2 12 8 +4 9 4 Vale FC 5 2 3 0 8 5 +3 9 5 Hadford Hill FC 5 2 1 2 13 10 +3 7 6 Waldster FC 5 2 1 2 10 9 +1 7 7 Kings Lunsel FC 5 2 1 2 10 10 0 7 8 St Astons City FC 5 2 1 2 9 9 0 7 9 South Maishop FC 5 2 1 2 6 6 0 7 10 Loxthorpe Rovers FC 5 2 1 2 6 8 −2 7 11 Croxlich FC 5 1 3 1 8 7 +1 6 12 Stanmorn FC 5 2 0 3 10 11 −1 6 13 Butterfield Rovers FC 5 1 3 1 10 11 −1 6 --------------------------------------------------------- 14 Binclestead Wood FC 5 2 0 3 8 10 −2 6 15 Sporting Towerhaite 5 1 1 3 9 15 −6 4 16 Apsbrooke FC 5 0 1 4 6 14 −8 1 Challenge League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Hopford FC 5 4 1 0 6 0 +6 13 2 Guildwell Football 5 3 1 1 12 7 +5 10 --------------------------------------------------------- 3 Narrock Wood United FC 5 3 1 1 8 4 +4 10 4 Westwood Garden City FC 5 3 1 1 11 8 +3 10 5 Millsea FC 5 3 1 1 11 9 +2 10 6 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 5 2 3 0 13 7 +6 9 --------------------------------------------------------- 7 Capton Club 5 2 1 2 7 5 +2 7 8 Rumlington Rovers FC 5 2 1 2 11 10 +1 7 9 Claychester FC 5 1 3 1 6 7 −1 6 10 Carston Green FC 5 1 2 2 7 8 −1 5 11 Henhaven Islanders FC 5 1 2 2 2 5 −3 5 12 Nailwood Mills FC 5 1 1 3 5 8 −3 4 --------------------------------------------------------- 13 Sandneston Rovers FC 5 1 1 3 5 9 −4 4 14 Captonbridge Rangers FC 5 1 1 3 10 15 −5 4 15 Abbots Lunsel FC 5 1 0 4 2 6 −4 3 16 Boll Lake Mariners FC 5 0 2 3 4 12 −8 2 Western League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 North Mayshop FC 5 3 2 0 8 5 +3 11 --------------------------------------------------------- 2 Slaton FC 5 3 0 2 8 5 +3 9 3 Redthwaite Rangers FC 5 2 3 0 7 5 +2 9 4 Saltearth FC 5 2 2 1 9 7 +2 8 5 Havermilly FC 5 2 1 2 7 6 +1 7 --------------------------------------------------------- 6 Melcave Meerkats 5 2 1 2 4 3 +1 7 7 Magic Roundabout FC 5 2 1 2 3 3 0 7 8 Napsmouth FC 5 2 1 2 8 9 −1 7 9 Westwood FC 5 1 3 1 6 5 +1 6 10 Vitarias Legion 5 1 3 1 2 2 0 6 11 Langpool Capton FC 5 1 3 1 7 8 −1 6 12 Alstone FC 5 2 0 3 7 11 −4 6 13 Boleland Wood Town FC 5 1 2 2 10 9 +1 5 --------------------------------------------------------- 14 Ellerstone United FC 5 1 2 2 3 6 −3 5 15 Old Marthorpe FC 5 1 1 3 5 6 −1 4 16 Caffchin FC 5 1 1 3 7 11 −4 4 Eastern League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Oxwich FC 5 4 1 0 10 3 +7 13 --------------------------------------------------------- 2 Cartswood FC 5 4 0 1 10 5 +5 12 3 Buchraston FC 5 3 1 1 9 5 +4 10 4 Queens FC 5 3 0 2 8 8 0 9 5 Gann FC 5 2 2 1 9 4 +5 8 6 Johns Park FC 5 2 2 1 5 4 +1 8 --------------------------------------------------------- 7 Radstye Rangers FC 5 2 1 2 7 7 0 7 8 Frostbrook Rovers FC 5 1 3 1 6 6 0 6 9 Buchraston Heath FC 5 2 0 3 6 6 0 6 10 Ashland Common 5 1 2 2 5 7 −2 5 11 FC North Waldster 5 1 2 2 4 7 −3 5 12 Leabury FC 5 1 2 2 5 9 −4 5 13 Henhaven Palace FC 5 1 2 2 7 12 −5 5 --------------------------------------------------------- 14 Henhaven Beachside 5 1 1 3 7 7 0 4 15 Whittlesbury Wanderers 5 1 1 3 6 7 −1 4 16 Locksmith-on-Carron FC 5 0 2 3 5 12 −7 2

Flavovespia Gold Cup
Round 1
Combury FC 0–1 FC North Waldster
Cartswood FC 2–3 Brimton FC
Dame Roundabout FC 2–1 Buchraston FC
Caffchin FC 0–2 Flawthrope FC
Barmount FC 0–1 Highhadford FC
Hadford Industrial United 0–0 South Hadford United (2–1 AET)
Walbert Street FC 0–2 Vitarias Legion
Napsmouth FC 2–2 Ashland Common (2–2 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Henhaven Beachside 1–2 Camber Place FC
Boleland Wood Town FC 0–0 Johns Park FC (0–0 AET) (7–8 pen.)
Baxlee Blues 5–0 Prince Street Wanderers
Magic Roundabout FC 2–3 Oxwich FC
Old Marthorpe FC 3–2 Maltsterbrack FC
Woodbrook FC 0–1 North Mayshop FC
Slaton FC 1–0 Waldster Waterfields
Frostbrook Rovers FC 1–0 Calhead Rangers FC
Ellerstone United FC 1–1 Phinmall Wood FC (3–1 AET)
Westwood FC 1–0 Langpool Capton FC
Whittlesbury Wanderers 2–1 St Astons Striders FC
Melcave Meerkats 0–2 Gann FC
Addenleigh Rangers FC 3–1 Old Saints FC
Hadford Dacorum FC 1–1 Havermilly Hanger FC (1–1 AET) (3–0 pen.)
Havermilly FC 1–0 Queens FC
Alstone FC 3–5 Buchraston Heath FC
Marely Park FC 3–2 Sutsyridge FC
Galling Rangers 7AU 2–1 Redthwaite Rangers FC
Leabury FC 0–0 Floombury United FC (1–0 AET)
Saltearth FC 0–0 Malter End FC (2–1 AET)
Henhaven Palace FC 1–3 Lunselbury FC
Radstye Rangers FC 3–3 Loxthorpe Green FC (4–3 AET)
Rumlington Lakes FC 0–1 Locksmith-on-Carron FC
Ellerstone Aerodrome 0–1 Oxwich Wood FC

Round 1 proper, and 32 non-league sides joined the 32 sides of Tier 3. For the first time, there was regional qualifying round followed by 3 preliminary rounds, open to any Flavovespian club. The 32 non-league sides were all in the Alliance (Tiers 4 and 5), but it was a welcome start for the new format for the Flavovespia Gold Cup. There were upsets to be had. Recently relegated Cartswood suffered a home loss to Brimton, in the Eastern Alliance D1 a division below the Eastern League. Dame Roundabout of the Southern Alliance D2 knocked out Buchraston, 2 leagues above them. Fellow Southern Alliance D2 side Marely Park also made it into Round 2.

by **Flavovespia** » Sat Nov 09, 2019 2:27 pm

Matchday 6
Croxlich FC 1–1 Waldster FC
Binclestead Wood FC 4–1 St Astons City FC
Marthorpe City FC 4–2 South Maishop FC
Hadford Hill FC 1–0 Apsbrooke FC
Bavingtor FC 1–2 Stanmorn FC
Vale FC 0–1 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Kings Lunsel FC 2–1 Butterfield Rovers FC
Sporting Towerhaite 1–2 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Defending champions Stanmorn FC inflict a home defeat on Bavingtor. This gives Marthorpe City the chance at going top, and they took it with a 4-2 win over South Maishop. Binclestead Wood put up a 4-1 victory to get out of the relegation zone. Meanwhile Langmere Green Rovers and Hadford Hill continue to climb upwards, occupying 3rd and 4th places now.

Matchday 7
Langmere Green Rovers FC 0–1 Croxlich FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 4–3 Sporting Towerhaite
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 4–2 Kings Lunsel FC
Stanmorn FC 1–1 Vale FC
Apsbrooke FC 4–1 Bavingtor FC
South Maishop FC 1–1 Hadford Hill FC
St Astons City FC 0–1 Marthorpe City FC
Waldster FC 3–1 Binclestead Wood FC

An away victory for Marthorpe City keeps them top of the table, but concerningly for opponents St Astons City, they drop into the relegation zone. Apsbrooke, bottom of the Super League going into the Matchday, take a 4-1 victory over Bavingtor. Loxthorpe Rovers leap up to 2nd place with a 4-2 victory over Kings Lunsel, with Waldster as well starting to find a little bit of form. Outside of the Super League, Millsea of the Challenge League put up an amazing 8-2 victory over Guildwell Football, to move themselves into a promotion spot.

Matchday 8
Croxlich FC 1–1 Binclestead Wood FC
Marthorpe City FC 1–1 Waldster FC
Hadford Hill FC 0–2 St Astons City FC
Bavingtor FC 3–1 South Maishop FC
Vale FC 1–2 Apsbrooke FC
Kings Lunsel FC 0–1 Stanmorn FC
Sporting Towerhaite 1–1 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–0 Butterfield Rovers FC

The Hadford Hill-St Astons Big 3 derby was the match to watch, and St Astons City got a 0-2 away win, somewhat against recent form for the season. Marthorpe City only got a home draw with Waldster. However Loxthorpe Rovers couldn’t capitalise, and it was Langmere Green Rovers and Bavingtor with wins to go 2nd and 3rd.

Matchday 9
Butterfield Rovers FC 2–0 Croxlich FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0–0 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Stanmorn FC 4–1 Sporting Towerhaite
Apsbrooke FC 4–0 Kings Lunsel FC
South Maishop FC 2–2 Vale FC
St Astons City FC 5–1 Bavingtor FC
Waldster FC 4–2 Hadford Hill FC
Binclestead Wood FC 1–0 Marthorpe City FC

3 derbies were the games of the weekend. The Green Derby between Loxthorpe Rovers and Langmere Green Rovers was between 4th and 2nd, but was a somewhat dull 0-0 draw. In the Waldster-Hadford Hill derby, the hosts Waldster got a 4-2 win, getting them up to 4th but dropping the visitors down to 11th. Holders Stanmorn hosted local rivals Sporting Towerhaite, with a convincing 4-1 victory for the hosts. 1st all the away to 15th are only 8 points apart, and it’s only Sporting Towerhaite adrift on 5 points who aren’t in that pack.

Matchday 10
Croxlich FC 0–3 Marthorpe City FC
Hadford Hill FC 0–0 Binclestead Wood FC
Bavingtor FC 2–2 Waldster FC
Vale FC 0–0 St Astons City FC
Kings Lunsel FC 3–1 South Maishop FC
Sporting Towerhaite 2–0 Apsbrooke FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–0 Stanmorn FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 1–1 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Marthorpe City continue to lead, with a 0-3 away victory at newly promoted Croxlich. Langmere Green Rovers and Stanmorn were 2nd and 3rd on 16 points before this match, but the hosts got a 2-0 victory to stay a point behind Marthorpe City. Bavingtor and Waldster drew 1-1, to go 5th and 3rd respectively. Loxthorpe and St Astons City follow up, both teams probably wanting a little more out of this season, but not in a bad position. At the wrong end of the table, in the relegation zone lie Apsbrooke and South Maishop, alongside Sporting Towerhaite.

In the Challenge League, and 23 points from 30 puts Westwood Garden City in a commanding position to make an immediate return to the Challenge League. In the other automatic promotion spot lie the never promoted to the Super League Hopford. Millsea impress in 3rd, along with Guildwell Football, Capton Club and Narrock Wood United in the playoff spots. At the wrong end, Boll Lake Mariners and Sandenston Rovers are struggling after promotion, and surprisingly Henhaven Islanders and Abbots Lunsel are also in a relegation battle.

Into the Western League, and Saltearth are currently leading, with their local rivals Boleland Wood Town and Ellerstone United in a relegation battle. Havermilly and North Mayshop are in playoff spots, but not yet looking like the favourites to match pre-season expectations. In the Eastern League, Oxwich and Cartswood battle for an immediate return to the Challenge League. Johns Park, a team struggling for so long, have at least worked themselves into a playoff spot.

Code: Select all: Super League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Marthorpe City FC 10 6 2 2 18 12 +6 20 2 Langmere Green Rovers FC 10 6 1 3 18 10 +8 19 3 Waldster FC 10 4 4 2 21 16 +5 16 4 Stanmorn FC 10 5 1 4 18 16 +2 16 5 Bavingtor FC 10 5 1 4 22 21 +1 16 6 Loxthorpe Rovers FC 10 4 4 2 13 12 +1 16 7 St Astons City FC 10 4 2 4 17 15 +2 14 8 Binclestead Wood FC 10 4 2 4 15 15 0 14 9 Butterfield Rovers FC 10 3 4 3 18 19 −1 13 10 Kings Lunsel FC 10 4 1 5 17 21 −4 13 11 Vale FC 10 2 6 2 12 11 +1 12 12 Hadford Hill FC 10 3 3 4 17 17 0 12 13 Croxlich FC 10 2 5 3 11 14 −3 11 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Apsbrooke FC 10 3 1 6 16 19 −3 10 15 South Maishop FC 10 2 3 5 13 19 −6 9 16 Sporting Towerhaite 10 2 2 6 17 26 −9 8 Challenge League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Westwood Garden City FC 10 7 2 1 20 12 +8 23 2 Hopford FC 10 6 1 3 10 5 +5 19 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Millsea FC 10 5 1 4 26 21 +5 16 4 Guildwell Football 10 5 1 4 21 21 0 16 5 Capton Club 10 4 3 3 16 9 +7 15 6 Narrock Wood United FC 10 4 3 3 15 10 +5 15 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 10 3 5 2 18 17 +1 14 8 Rumlington Rovers FC 10 3 4 3 18 18 0 13 9 Carston Green FC 10 2 6 2 16 15 +1 12 10 Claychester FC 10 2 6 2 14 14 0 12 11 Nailwood Mills FC 10 3 3 4 13 15 −2 12 12 Captonbridge Rangers FC 10 3 3 4 20 26 −6 12 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13 Henhaven Islanders FC 10 2 5 3 7 10 −3 11 14 Boll Lake Mariners FC 10 2 3 5 13 18 −5 9 15 Sandneston Rovers FC 10 2 3 5 10 18 −8 9 16 Abbots Lunsel FC 10 1 3 6 4 12 −8 6 Western League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Saltearth FC 10 7 2 1 22 10 +12 23 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Slaton FC 10 5 3 2 17 11 +6 18 3 North Mayshop FC 10 5 3 2 17 14 +3 18 4 Havermilly FC 10 5 1 4 19 10 +9 16 5 Redthwaite Rangers FC 10 3 7 0 12 9 +3 16 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Melcave Meerkats 10 4 2 4 9 8 +1 14 7 Napsmouth FC 10 4 2 4 13 15 −2 14 8 Langpool Capton FC 10 3 4 3 13 15 −2 13 9 Vitarias Legion 10 2 6 2 10 11 −1 12 10 Magic Roundabout FC 10 3 3 4 7 10 −3 12 11 Alstone FC 10 3 2 5 10 16 −6 11 12 Old Marthorpe FC 10 3 1 6 12 11 +1 10 13 Ellerstone United FC 10 2 4 4 7 13 −6 10 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Boleland Wood Town FC 10 2 3 5 12 17 −5 9 15 Caffchin FC 10 2 3 5 12 17 −5 9 16 Westwood FC 10 1 6 3 11 16 −5 9 Eastern League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Oxwich FC 10 7 1 2 21 11 +10 22 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Cartswood FC 10 7 1 2 15 6 +9 22 3 Gann FC 10 6 2 2 18 7 +11 20 4 Buchraston FC 10 6 2 2 18 15 +3 20 5 Johns Park FC 10 5 2 3 17 12 +5 17 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Leabury FC 10 4 4 2 14 12 +2 16 7 Whittlesbury Wanderers 10 3 4 3 13 10 +3 13 8 Radstye Rangers FC 10 3 3 4 10 11 −1 12 9 Henhaven Beachside 10 3 2 5 15 15 0 11 10 Locksmith-on-Carron FC 10 3 2 5 14 23 −9 11 11 Buchraston Heath FC 10 3 1 6 14 15 −1 10 12 Frostbrook Rovers FC 10 2 4 4 7 12 −5 10 13 Queens FC 10 3 1 6 15 21 −6 10 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Ashland Common 10 2 3 5 10 15 −5 9 15 FC North Waldster 10 2 3 5 13 19 −6 9 16 Henhaven Palace FC 10 2 3 5 15 25 −10 9

Flavovespia Gold Cup
Round 2
Sporting Towerhaite 4–2 Langmere Green Rovers FC
St Astons City FC 4–0 Westwood FC
Stanmorn FC 2–0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC
Leabury FC 0–1 Claychester FC
Sandneston Rovers FC 2–0 North Mayshop FC
Guildwell Football 1–0 Locksmith-on-Carron FC
FC North Waldster 1–2 Camber Place FC
Hopford FC 2–0 Gann FC
Rumlington Rovers FC 2–0 Johns Park FC
Ellerstone United FC 1–3 Carston Green FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 1–0 Frostbrook Rovers FC
Capton Club 4–1 Galling Rangers 7AU
Captonbridge Rangers FC 1–2 Kings Lunsel FC
Hadford Hill FC 0–0 Vale FC (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Marthorpe City FC 0–0 Apsbrooke FC (0–0 AET) (7–8 pen.)
Waldster FC 3–2 Addenleigh Rangers FC
Havermilly FC 4–1 Flawthrope FC
Marely Park FC 0–1 Ashland Common
Millsea FC 2–0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Oxwich FC 0–1 Westwood Garden City FC
Radstye Rangers FC 4–2 Hadford Industrial United
South Maishop FC 0–1 Binclestead Wood FC
Abbots Lunsel FC 1–0 Buchraston Heath FC
Oxwich Wood FC 1–3 Narrock Wood United FC
Henhaven Islanders FC 2–1 Saltearth FC
Bavingtor FC 2–0 Brimton FC
Nailwood Mills FC 2–4 Boll Lake Mariners FC
Baxlee Blues 0–2 Croxlich FC
Whittlesbury Wanderers 0–0 Dame Roundabout FC (1–0 AET)
Highhadford FC 0–2 Old Marthorpe FC
Hadford Dacorum FC 3–2 Vitarias Legion
Slaton FC 1–0 Lunselbury FC

Round 2 saw the Super League and Challenge League sides enter the tournament. Waldster found Addenleigh Rangers surprisingly tough opponents as they edged out a 3-2 home win against non-league opposition. Marthorpe City suffered a home loss on penalties to Apsbrooke, and Vale inflicted the same fate on Hadford Hill. Millsea got a big upset last season against St Astons City and this season knocked out Super League stalwarts Loxthorpe Rovers. Camber Place knocked out FC North Waldster, one division above them, and alongside fellow Western Alliance D1 side Hadford Dacorum, who also got a victory over a side one division above them, remain the 2 non-league sides left of the 32 in the cup.

by **Flavovespia** » Wed Nov 13, 2019 12:54 pm

Matchday 11
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 3–1 Croxlich FC
Stanmorn FC 2–1 Butterfield Rovers FC
Apsbrooke FC 0–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC
South Maishop FC 3–0 Sporting Towerhaite
St Astons City FC 1–1 Kings Lunsel FC
Waldster FC 1–0 Vale FC
Binclestead Wood FC 0–0 Bavingtor FC
Marthorpe City FC 1–0 Hadford Hill FC

Marthorpe City win the “HM Derby” against Hadford Hill, but with Langmere Green Rovers, Waldster and Stanmorn all winning, there’s little change at the top. A win for South Maishop pushes them out of the relegation zone, at the expense of Croxlich.

Matchday 12
Croxlich FC 3–3 Hadford Hill FC
Bavingtor FC 3–4 Marthorpe City FC
Vale FC 1–0 Binclestead Wood FC
Kings Lunsel FC 4–3 Waldster FC
Sporting Towerhaite 2–1 St Astons City FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 1–0 South Maishop FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 0–1 Apsbrooke FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–0 Stanmorn FC

Loxthorpe Rovers beat Stanmorn, and with a loss for Waldster, Loxthorpe Rovers move up to 3rd. Apsbrooke get a win to get out of the relegation zone, with Hadford Hill now winless in 6 games and down in 11th. No change for the Top 2, as they both win.

Matchday 13
Stanmorn FC 2–2 Croxlich FC
Apsbrooke FC 2–1 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
South Maishop FC 3–1 Butterfield Rovers FC
St Astons City FC 1–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Waldster FC 1–2 Sporting Towerhaite
Binclestead Wood FC 2–4 Kings Lunsel FC
Marthorpe City FC 2–0 Vale FC
Hadford Hill FC 2–0 Bavingtor FC

Langmere Green Rovers can only draw, allowing Marthorpe City the opportunity to move 3 points clear at the top of the Super League. Waldster were upset by nearby Sporting Towerhaite, the latter now close to getting out of the relegation zone. Hadford Hill finally get back to winning ways, with a 2-0 victory over Bavingtor. A win for South Maishop win also helps them but hinders opponents Butterfield Rovers in the relegation battle.

Matchday 14
Croxlich FC 4–4 Bavingtor FC
Vale FC 1–0 Hadford Hill FC
Kings Lunsel FC 1–0 Marthorpe City FC
Sporting Towerhaite 1–1 Binclestead Wood FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 4–1 Waldster FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 1–2 St Astons City FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0–0 South Maishop FC
Stanmorn FC 1–1 Apsbrooke FC

Langmere Green Rovers take an impressive 4-1 victory at home to Waldster, and with Marthorpe City losing at Kings Lunsel, Langmere Green Rovers go top of the Super League. Butterfield Rovers now drop to the summit of the Super League, in what is shaping up to be a tight relegation battle, unlike years where at least one team is clearly looking like obvious relegation fodder.

Matchday 15
Apsbrooke FC 2–1 Croxlich FC
South Maishop FC 0–1 Stanmorn FC
St Astons City FC 2–2 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Waldster FC 0–1 Butterfield Rovers FC
Binclestead Wood FC 0–0 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Marthorpe City FC 4–1 Sporting Towerhaite
Hadford Hill FC 1–1 Kings Lunsel FC
Bavingtor FC 2–0 Vale FC

Marthorpe City retake the Super League top spot as the halfway point of the season is reached, with a 4-1 win over Sporting Towerhaite, combined with a scoreless draw for Langmere Green Rovers. Stanmorn, Loxthorpe Rovers and Kings Lunsel all follow in on 24 points. Bavingtor, St Astons City and early strugglers Apsbrooke round out the top half. 4 consecutive losses put Waldster 9th, just ahead of Vale and Hadford Hill. Binclestead Wood and South Maishop are just outside the relegation zone, but one win could change it for them. It’s Butterfield Rovers, Sporting Towerhaite and Croxlich in the dreaded bottom 3.

Into the Challenge League, and 4 points separate the 3 contenders for the 2 automatic promotion spots. Westwood Garden City lead and have been here before, but never before have Hopford or Millsea played in the Super League. Rumlington Rovers, Batchingtonwood Rovers and Guildwell Football round out a surprising playoff position set-up at the halfway point. All 4 newly promoted sides occupy the relegation spots back to Tier 3 however.

Western League still has Saltearth leading, with rivals Boleland Wood Town, Ellerstone United (and Westwood) in the relegation zones to the non-league Alliance D1. North Mayshop, Slaton, Havermilly and Redthwaite Rangers are the playoff contenders at the moment. In the Eastern League, Cartswood still just edge Oxwich as the 2 relegated sides dominate the division. It’s Frostbrook Rovers, a league side for a quarter century, FC North Waldster and Henhaven Palace in the relegation zone.

Code: Select all: Super League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Marthorpe City FC 15 10 2 3 29 17 +12 32 2 Langmere Green Rovers FC 15 9 3 3 25 12 +13 30 3 Stanmorn FC 15 7 3 5 24 21 +3 24 4 Loxthorpe Rovers FC 15 6 6 3 20 17 +3 24 5 Kings Lunsel FC 15 7 3 5 28 28 0 24 6 Bavingtor FC 15 6 3 6 31 31 0 21 7 St Astons City FC 15 5 5 5 24 22 +2 20 8 Apsbrooke FC 15 6 2 7 22 23 −1 20 9 Waldster FC 15 5 4 6 27 27 0 19 10 Vale FC 15 4 6 5 14 16 −2 18 11 Hadford Hill FC 15 4 5 6 23 23 0 17 12 Binclestead Wood FC 15 4 5 6 18 21 −3 17 13 South Maishop FC 15 4 4 7 19 22 −3 16 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Butterfield Rovers FC 15 4 4 7 22 27 −5 16 15 Sporting Towerhaite 15 4 3 8 23 36 −13 15 16 Croxlich FC 15 2 8 5 22 28 −6 14 Challenge League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Westwood Garden City FC 15 9 5 1 25 15 +10 32 2 Hopford FC 15 9 2 4 15 8 +7 29 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Millsea FC 15 9 1 5 34 25 +9 28 4 Rumlington Rovers FC 15 6 4 5 28 25 +3 22 5 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 15 5 6 4 25 23 +2 21 6 Guildwell Football 15 6 3 6 27 33 −6 21 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7 Capton Club 15 5 4 6 24 18 +6 19 8 Carston Green FC 15 4 7 4 23 19 +4 19 9 Narrock Wood United FC 15 5 4 6 21 18 +3 19 10 Henhaven Islanders FC 15 4 6 5 16 19 −3 18 11 Abbots Lunsel FC 15 5 3 7 10 15 −5 18 12 Nailwood Mills FC 15 4 5 6 23 28 −5 17 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13 Boll Lake Mariners FC 15 4 4 7 16 20 −4 16 14 Captonbridge Rangers FC 15 4 4 7 23 31 −8 16 15 Sandneston Rovers FC 15 4 4 7 17 27 −10 16 16 Claychester FC 15 2 8 5 20 23 −3 14 Western League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Saltearth FC 15 10 3 2 31 17 +14 33 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 North Mayshop FC 15 9 3 3 28 22 +6 30 3 Slaton FC 15 8 5 2 28 15 +13 29 4 Havermilly FC 15 8 3 4 28 12 +16 27 5 Redthwaite Rangers FC 15 6 8 1 23 17 +6 26 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Langpool Capton FC 15 6 5 4 25 23 +2 23 7 Vitarias Legion 15 5 7 3 17 14 +3 22 8 Napsmouth FC 15 5 3 7 21 25 −4 18 9 Melcave Meerkats 15 4 5 6 16 17 −1 17 10 Alstone FC 15 4 4 7 13 19 −6 16 11 Caffchin FC 15 4 4 7 16 25 −9 16 12 Old Marthorpe FC 15 4 3 8 18 18 0 15 13 Magic Roundabout FC 15 3 5 7 9 16 −7 14 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Boleland Wood Town FC 15 3 4 8 23 32 −9 13 15 Ellerstone United FC 15 2 6 7 10 21 −11 12 16 Westwood FC 15 1 8 6 13 26 −13 11 Eastern League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cartswood FC 15 11 1 3 24 11 +13 34 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Oxwich FC 15 10 3 2 34 18 +16 33 3 Buchraston FC 15 9 2 4 35 25 +10 29 4 Gann FC 15 8 3 4 22 10 +12 27 5 Locksmith-on-Carron FC 15 7 3 5 24 27 −3 24 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Henhaven Beachside 15 7 2 6 25 21 +4 23 7 Whittlesbury Wanderers 15 5 5 5 23 17 +6 20 8 Johns Park FC 15 5 5 5 23 20 +3 20 9 Buchraston Heath FC 15 6 2 7 24 26 −2 20 10 Queens FC 15 5 3 7 24 31 −7 18 11 Ashland Common 15 4 5 6 20 22 −2 17 12 Radstye Rangers FC 15 4 4 7 16 19 −3 16 13 Leabury FC 15 4 4 7 19 26 −7 16 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Frostbrook Rovers FC 15 2 6 7 15 24 −9 12 15 FC North Waldster 15 3 3 9 18 31 −13 12 16 Henhaven Palace FC 15 2 5 8 18 36 −18 11

Flavovespia Gold Cup
Round 3

Kings Lunsel FC 3–2 St Astons City FC
Carston Green FC 0–2 Henhaven Islanders FC
Sporting Towerhaite 5–5 Croxlich FC (6–5 AET)
Bavingtor FC 1–0 Slaton FC
Old Marthorpe FC 3–0 Waldster FC
Millsea FC 3–1 Whittlesbury Wanderers
Apsbrooke FC 1–0 Vale FC
Narrock Wood United FC 1–0 Havermilly FC
Boll Lake Mariners FC 0–0 Claychester FC (1–0 AET)
Radstye Rangers FC 3–2 Ashland Common
Rumlington Rovers FC 0–1 Westwood Garden City FC
Abbots Lunsel FC 0–0 Butterfield Rovers FC (0–1 AET)
Hadford Dacorum FC 2–5 Hopford FC
Camber Place FC 2–2 Capton Club (2–2 AET) (4–2 pen.)
Guildwell Football 1–0 Sandneston Rovers FC
Stanmorn FC 1–2 Binclestead Wood FC

There were plenty of shocks and big-names out in Round 3. A rotated Waldster FC side were stunned by a 3-0 loss at Western League Old Marthorpe. Eastern Alliance D1 Camber Place FC knocked out Challenge League Capton Club at home on penalties. The draw certainly helped to eliminate some big names like St Astons City and Stanmorn, as they lost to Super League opposition, leaving a Western League, an Eastern League and an Eastern Alliance D1 side in the final 16.

by **Flavovespia** » Fri Nov 22, 2019 6:53 am

Matchday 16
Croxlich FC 2–0 Vale FC
Bavingtor FC 0–3 Kings Lunsel FC
Hadford Hill FC 2–0 Sporting Towerhaite
Marthorpe City FC 0–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Binclestead Wood FC 3–0 Butterfield Rovers FC
Waldster FC 0–1 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
St Astons City FC 3–1 Stanmorn FC
South Maishop FC 0–1 Apsbrooke FC

In a 1st vs 2nd matchup, it was the visitors Langmere Green Rovers who took the win and the top spot of the division. A minor derby matchup between Binclestead Wood and Butterfield Rovers saw the hosts take a 3-0 victory to try and distance themselves from relegation.

Matchday 17
South Maishop FC 3–2 Croxlich FC
Apsbrooke FC 2–3 St Astons City FC
Stanmorn FC 2–0 Waldster FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 2–0 Binclestead Wood FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 3–5 Marthorpe City FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 0–1 Hadford Hill FC
Sporting Towerhaite 2–2 Bavingtor FC
Kings Lunsel FC 4–1 Vale FC

Another switch for the top of the Super League. Marthorpe City’s 3-5 win, combined with a 0-1 loss for Langmere Green Rovers at home to Hadford Hill gives Marthorpe City a 2 point lead. South Maishop win a relegation battle match 3-2 to escape the Bottom 3. Meanwhile Kings Lunsel and Loxthorpe Rovers in 3rd and 4th close up to within 5 points of the leaders.

Matchday 18
Croxlich FC 2–2 Kings Lunsel FC
Vale FC 0–2 Sporting Towerhaite
Bavingtor FC 1–2 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Hadford Hill FC 0–0 Butterfield Rovers FC
Marthorpe City FC 0–0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Binclestead Wood FC 2–3 Stanmorn FC
Waldster FC 2–2 Apsbrooke FC
St Astons City FC 2–4 South Maishop FC

Yet another change at the top, with Marthorpe City unable to get a win against Loxthorpe Rovers, who ironically help their local rivals Langmere Green Rovers. Waldster finally end a 6 game losing streak with a 2-2 home draw to Apsbrooke. That streak, however has left the capital city team all the way down in 11th place. A great win away at St Astons for South Maishop puts further distance between them and the relegation zone.

Matchday 19
St Astons City FC 4–2 Croxlich FC
South Maishop FC 1–0 Waldster FC
Apsbrooke FC 1–0 Binclestead Wood FC
Stanmorn FC 1–0 Marthorpe City FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–0 Hadford Hill FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 1–0 Bavingtor FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 1–0 Vale FC
Sporting Towerhaite 4–3 Kings Lunsel FC

Langmere Green Rovers pull out a 3 point lead at the top, with their win and a Marthorpe City loss. 1-0 Wins for Loxthorpe Rovers and Stanmorn FC, both against strong opposition, put them within striking distance of Marthorpe City. South Maishop make it up to 8th with a home win against Waldster, now with 1 point in 8 games, and only out of the relegation zone on goal difference.

Matchday 20
Croxlich FC 2–0 Sporting Towerhaite
Kings Lunsel FC 1–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Vale FC 2–0 Butterfield Rovers FC
Bavingtor FC 3–2 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Hadford Hill FC 3–1 Stanmorn FC
Marthorpe City FC 4–1 Apsbrooke FC
Binclestead Wood FC 4–2 South Maishop FC
Waldster FC 1–0 St Astons City FC

Waldster finally end their terrible run of winless games, against one of their classic rivals St Astons City. Langmere Green Rovers could only draw, as Marthorpe City close to one point away from the top. Loxthorpe Rovers, Stanmorn and Kings Lunsel have been somewhat distanced by the Top 2 in terms of points, which could be key for the run-in in the final 10 games.

In the Challenge League, Westwood Garden City and Hopford have pulled away, and it could very well be those 2 who win automatic promotion. Millsea, Guildwell Football and Carston Green round out an all-Western Top 5, joined by Batchingtonwood Rovers in the playoff spots. At the other end, after a playoff appearance last season, Nailwood Mills now occupy a relegation spot, alongside 3 of the 4 promoted sides, only Sandneston Rovers avoiding that fate.

In the Western League, North Mayshop now lead, keen to make a return to the Challenge League. Melcave Meerkats now join Boleland Wood Town and Ellerstone United in the relegation zone to non-League. In the Eastern League, Cartswood still hold a 1 point lead over Oxwich, and it’s between those 2 for the automatic spot it seems. No change in the bottom 3 from those at the halfway point.

Code: Select all: Super League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Langmere Green Rovers FC 20 12 4 4 30 15 +15 40 2 Marthorpe City FC 20 12 3 5 38 23 +15 39 3 Loxthorpe Rovers FC 20 9 7 4 26 20 +6 34 4 Stanmorn FC 20 10 3 7 32 29 +3 33 5 Kings Lunsel FC 20 9 5 6 41 36 +5 32 6 St Astons City FC 20 8 5 7 36 32 +4 29 7 Hadford Hill FC 20 7 6 7 29 25 +4 27 8 Apsbrooke FC 20 8 3 9 29 32 −3 27 9 South Maishop FC 20 7 4 9 29 31 −2 25 10 Bavingtor FC 20 7 4 9 37 41 −4 25 11 Binclestead Wood FC 20 6 5 9 27 29 −2 23 12 Waldster FC 20 6 5 9 30 33 −3 23 13 Sporting Towerhaite 20 6 4 10 31 45 −14 22 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Croxlich FC 20 4 9 7 32 37 −5 21 15 Vale FC 20 5 6 9 17 25 −8 21 16 Butterfield Rovers FC 20 5 5 10 26 37 −11 20 Challenge League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Westwood Garden City FC 20 12 5 3 37 24 +13 41 2 Hopford FC 20 12 3 5 24 16 +8 39 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Millsea FC 20 10 3 7 38 31 +7 33 4 Guildwell Football 20 10 3 7 35 38 −3 33 5 Carston Green FC 20 7 8 5 39 30 +9 29 6 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 20 7 8 5 32 29 +3 29 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7 Capton Club 20 8 4 8 37 26 +11 28 8 Rumlington Rovers FC 20 8 4 8 36 31 +5 28 9 Sandneston Rovers FC 20 7 5 8 25 32 −7 26 10 Henhaven Islanders FC 20 6 6 8 24 31 −7 24 11 Abbots Lunsel FC 20 7 3 10 17 29 −12 24 12 Narrock Wood United FC 20 6 5 9 28 28 0 23 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13 Nailwood Mills FC 20 5 7 8 31 38 −7 22 14 Captonbridge Rangers FC 20 6 4 10 31 40 −9 22 15 Boll Lake Mariners FC 20 5 6 9 25 30 −5 21 16 Claychester FC 20 2 10 8 24 30 −6 16 Western League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 North Mayshop FC 20 13 3 4 42 33 +9 42 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Redthwaite Rangers FC 20 11 8 1 36 22 +14 41 3 Slaton FC 20 10 7 3 33 19 +14 37 4 Saltearth FC 20 11 4 5 42 29 +13 37 5 Havermilly FC 20 9 5 6 31 16 +15 32 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Vitarias Legion 20 8 7 5 28 24 +4 31 7 Old Marthorpe FC 20 8 4 8 30 23 +7 28 8 Langpool Capton FC 20 6 6 8 29 31 −2 24 9 Napsmouth FC 20 7 3 10 30 34 −4 24 10 Alstone FC 20 6 5 9 20 25 −5 23 11 Magic Roundabout FC 20 6 5 9 17 26 −9 23 12 Westwood FC 20 4 10 6 22 30 −8 22 13 Caffchin FC 20 5 6 9 17 27 −10 21 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Melcave Meerkats 20 4 7 9 17 22 −5 19 15 Boleland Wood Town FC 20 4 4 12 29 43 −14 16 16 Ellerstone United FC 20 3 6 11 15 34 −19 15 Eastern League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cartswood FC 20 15 2 3 34 12 +22 47 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Oxwich FC 20 14 4 2 46 22 +24 46 3 Gann FC 20 11 4 5 32 18 +14 37 4 Buchraston FC 20 11 2 7 47 35 +12 35 5 Locksmith-on-Carron FC 20 9 5 6 32 34 −2 32 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Whittlesbury Wanderers 20 8 5 7 35 27 +8 29 7 Buchraston Heath FC 20 9 2 9 35 35 0 29 8 Radstye Rangers FC 20 8 4 8 28 29 −1 28 9 Johns Park FC 20 7 5 8 30 30 0 26 10 Henhaven Beachside 20 8 2 10 34 37 −3 26 11 Leabury FC 20 7 5 8 25 32 −7 26 12 Ashland Common 20 5 6 9 28 30 −2 21 13 Queens FC 20 5 4 11 30 45 −15 19 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Frostbrook Rovers FC 20 3 7 10 24 36 −12 16 15 FC North Waldster 20 4 3 13 23 41 −18 15 16 Henhaven Palace FC 20 3 6 11 28 48 −20 15

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Round 4

Hopford FC 0–0 Henhaven Islanders FC (1–1 AET) (4–5 pen.)
Radstye Rangers FC 0–1 Sporting Towerhaite
Kings Lunsel FC 3–1 Butterfield Rovers FC
Narrock Wood United FC 2–1 Bavingtor FC
Old Marthorpe FC 0–1 Binclestead Wood FC
Boll Lake Mariners FC 1–0 Millsea FC
Guildwell Football 3–0 Camber Place FC
Westwood Garden City FC 0–5 Apsbrooke FC

A somewhat more tame round, with only 1 inter-division upset, Narrock Wood United of the Challenge League knocking out Super League Bavingtor. The two Tier 3 sides got home draws against Super League opposition, but both went out to a 0-1 loss. Camber Place were defeated 3-0 away to Guildwell Football. Elsewhere, Apsbrooke completely tore apart Challenge League Westwood Garden City, 0-5. Holders Kings Lunsel, and favourites looking at the remaining sides, navigated their home match against Butterfield Rovers with a good performance. 4 Super League and 4 Challenge League sides remain as the teams now progress to the Quarter Final stage.

by **Flavovespia** » Wed Nov 27, 2019 9:15 am

Matchday 21

Waldster FC 1–1 Croxlich FC
St Astons City FC 1–1 Binclestead Wood FC
South Maishop FC 2–1 Marthorpe City FC
Apsbrooke FC 5–6 Hadford Hill FC
Stanmorn FC 1–2 Bavingtor FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 2–2 Vale FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 3–3 Kings Lunsel FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 1–0 Sporting Towerhaite

For the race for the title, the big result was a comeback win for South Maishop against Marthorpe City, extendeing the lead for Langmere Green Rovers to 4 points, in the push for their first ever title. The standout match of the day has to be a spectactular 5-6 between Apsbrooke and Hadford Hill, one where the spectators really got their money’s worth.

Matchday 22
Croxlich FC 0–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Sporting Towerhaite 0–0 Butterfield Rovers FC
Kings Lunsel FC 0–3 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Vale FC 2–3 Stanmorn FC
Bavingtor FC 4–1 Apsbrooke FC
Hadford Hill FC 2–4 South Maishop FC
Marthorpe City FC 2–1 St Astons City FC
Binclestead Wood FC 1–0 Waldster FC

Wins across the board for all of the top teams meant little change at the top of the Super League. The local derby between Vale and Stanmorn saw the visitors win, as the hosts struggle to try and find a way out of the relegation zone. Hadford Hill were also humbled at home to a South Maishop team who have found a great run of form.

Matchday 23

Binclestead Wood FC 1–1 Croxlich FC
Waldster FC 1–1 Marthorpe City FC
St Astons City FC 3–2 Hadford Hill FC
South Maishop FC 2–0 Bavingtor FC
Apsbrooke FC 5–1 Vale FC
Stanmorn FC 2–1 Kings Lunsel FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0–0 Sporting Towerhaite
Butterfield Rovers FC 1–2 Langmere Green Rovers FC

The lead at the top extends to 6 points. Langmere Green Rovers get a crucial away win, as Marthorpe City can only draw at Waldster, a team who themselves are underperforming badly. Elsewhere St Astons make it a double over Hadford Hill for this season, and Apsbrooke get a 5-1 win, to push themselves away further from any threat of relegation.

Matchday 24
Croxlich FC 1–0 Butterfield Rovers FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–3 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Sporting Towerhaite 0–0 Stanmorn FC
Kings Lunsel FC 0–1 Apsbrooke FC
Vale FC 1–2 South Maishop FC
Bavingtor FC 2–1 St Astons City FC
Hadford Hill FC 3–3 Waldster FC
Marthorpe City FC 3–2 Binclestead Wood FC

It was the Green derby that was the big focus, and Loxthorpe Rovers inflicted a key defeat on rivals and leaders Langmere Green Rovers. A Marthorpe City victory leaves just 3 points between 1st and 2nd place now. In another big derby this matchday, Hadford Hill and Waldster played out an entertaining 3-3 draw. Croxlich got a win to take themselves out of the relegation zone at the expensive of Sporting Towerhaite who had a scoreless draw in their local derby with Stanmorn.

Matchday 25

Marthorpe City FC 2–1 Croxlich FC
Binclestead Wood FC 1–0 Hadford Hill FC
Waldster FC 2–1 Bavingtor FC
St Astons City FC 2–0 Vale FC
South Maishop FC 1–2 Kings Lunsel FC
Apsbrooke FC 1–0 Sporting Towerhaite
Stanmorn FC 1–2 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–0 Butterfield Rovers FC

With just 5 games to go, Langmere Green Rovers on 52, Marthorpe City on 49 and Loxthorpe Rovers on 45 are the Top 3, and the only 3 teams left with a realistic shot at the title. Stanmorn, defending champions are 4th, but with a 12 point deficit, would need a miracle to take a 2nd title. 5th place goes to South Maishop, who have far exceeded expectations for a newly promoted side. St Astons City and Kings Lunsel follow up, having pretty average seasons. Apsbrooke in 8th would be happy with another top half finish. Bavingtor in 9th will be a little disappointed after a strong start, but will be happier than 10th placed Hadford Hill. Binclestead Wood, 11th but on 31 points will hope to do enough to stay up. Waldster in 12th have had a torrid season, and have to make sure they don’t suffer a shocking relegation for their first ever time. Newly promoted Croxlich are just outside the bottom 3 on 26 points, a position they’d happily finish. One point behind, but in the relegation zone is Sporting Towerhaite, and on 22 points are Butterfield Rovers and Vale propping up the Super League.

In the Challenge League, 5 and 4 points are what separate Westwood Garden City and Hopford from the chasing pack in the playoffs. Carston Green, Guildwell Football, Batchingtonwood Rovers and Millsea are the playoff contenders with a bit of a gap to 7th. At the wrong end, it’ Henhaven Islanders currently joining 3 of the 4 newly promoted sides in facing relegation to the 3rd tier.

North Mayshop and Cartswood continue to lead the Western and Eastern Leagues respectively. Saltearth in the Western League playoff spots look to make it to the Challenge League for the first time in their history, but at the wrong end of the Eastern League, Frostbrook Rovers face their first ever relegation out of the League all together, as things stand.

Code: Select all: Super League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Langmere Green Rovers FC 25 16 4 5 38 20 +18 52 2 Marthorpe City FC 25 15 4 6 47 30 +17 49 3 Loxthorpe Rovers FC 25 12 9 4 35 24 +11 45 4 Stanmorn FC 25 12 4 9 39 36 +3 40 5 South Maishop FC 25 11 4 10 40 37 +3 37 6 St Astons City FC 25 10 6 9 44 39 +5 36 7 Kings Lunsel FC 25 10 6 9 47 46 +1 36 8 Apsbrooke FC 25 11 3 11 42 43 −1 36 9 Bavingtor FC 25 10 4 11 46 48 −2 34 10 Hadford Hill FC 25 8 7 10 42 41 +1 31 11 Binclestead Wood FC 25 8 7 10 33 34 −1 31 12 Waldster FC 25 7 8 10 37 40 −3 29 13 Croxlich FC 25 5 11 9 36 42 −6 26 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Sporting Towerhaite 25 6 7 12 31 47 −16 25 15 Butterfield Rovers FC 25 5 7 13 30 44 −14 22 16 Vale FC 25 5 7 13 23 39 −16 22 Challenge League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Westwood Garden City FC 25 13 8 4 44 33 +11 47 2 Hopford FC 25 14 4 7 32 21 +11 46 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Carston Green FC 25 11 9 5 51 36 +15 42 4 Guildwell Football 25 12 5 8 41 43 −2 41 5 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 25 10 10 5 42 33 +9 40 6 Millsea FC 25 11 5 9 42 36 +6 38 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7 Narrock Wood United FC 25 9 7 9 37 32 +5 34 8 Capton Club 25 9 6 10 41 31 +10 33 9 Abbots Lunsel FC 25 9 5 11 23 35 −12 32 10 Rumlington Rovers FC 25 9 4 12 42 43 −1 31 11 Sandneston Rovers FC 25 8 7 10 36 43 −7 31 12 Nailwood Mills FC 25 7 9 9 36 42 −6 30 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13 Henhaven Islanders FC 25 7 7 11 28 39 −11 28 14 Captonbridge Rangers FC 25 7 4 14 36 51 −15 25 15 Boll Lake Mariners FC 25 5 9 11 27 34 −7 24 16 Claychester FC 25 4 11 10 31 37 −6 23 Western League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 North Mayshop FC 25 16 4 5 50 37 +13 52 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Redthwaite Rangers FC 25 13 10 2 43 26 +17 49 3 Slaton FC 25 12 9 4 48 28 +20 45 4 Saltearth FC 25 13 5 7 49 40 +9 44 5 Havermilly FC 25 12 7 6 38 18 +20 43 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Vitarias Legion 25 11 9 5 37 27 +10 42 7 Old Marthorpe FC 25 10 5 10 37 30 +7 35 8 Napsmouth FC 25 9 4 12 34 39 −5 31 9 Caffchin FC 25 8 6 11 26 30 −4 30 10 Langpool Capton FC 25 7 7 11 31 38 −7 28 11 Boleland Wood Town FC 25 7 6 12 41 50 −9 27 12 Alstone FC 25 6 7 12 23 33 −10 25 13 Magic Roundabout FC 25 6 7 12 19 32 −13 25 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Westwood FC 25 5 10 10 30 48 −18 25 15 Melcave Meerkats 25 5 8 12 27 32 −5 23 16 Ellerstone United FC 25 5 6 14 23 48 −25 21 Eastern League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cartswood FC 25 19 3 3 45 13 +32 60 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Oxwich FC 25 16 6 3 49 24 +25 54 3 Gann FC 25 14 4 7 41 26 +15 46 4 Buchraston FC 25 13 4 8 51 40 +11 43 5 Locksmith-on-Carron FC 25 11 6 8 39 41 −2 39 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Henhaven Beachside 25 11 4 10 41 40 +1 37 7 Whittlesbury Wanderers 25 10 5 10 45 38 +7 35 8 Buchraston Heath FC 25 10 4 11 41 44 −3 34 9 Radstye Rangers FC 25 9 6 10 37 41 −4 33 10 Leabury FC 25 9 6 10 37 44 −7 33 11 Johns Park FC 25 9 5 11 37 36 +1 32 12 FC North Waldster 25 7 4 14 34 49 −15 25 13 Ashland Common 25 5 9 11 33 37 −4 24 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Queens FC 25 6 5 14 35 53 −18 23 15 Frostbrook Rovers FC 25 4 9 12 31 44 −13 21 16 Henhaven Palace FC 25 3 8 14 32 58 −26 17

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Quarter Finals

Binclestead Wood FC 4–5 Sporting Towerhaite
Guildwell Football 0–2 Kings Lunsel FC
Henhaven Islanders FC 2–2 Boll Lake Mariners FC (3–2 AET)
Apsbrooke FC 3–0 Narrock Wood United FC

8 teams left, and the dream becomes ever closer. The most entertaining match was at Binclestead Wood, as visitors Sporting Towerhaite took a very entertaining 4-5 victory, in a battle of 2 of the Super League’s slightly lower ranked sides. Kings Lunsel avoided an upset at Guildwell Football, with a solid 2 goal away win. An all Challenge League affair saw Henhaven Islanders take an extra time home victory against Boll Lake Mariners, to progress into the semis. Apsbrooke make their 2nd semi appearance in a row, and amazingly their 4th in 5 years. They beat Narrock Wood United 3-0 at home, in arguably the best draw of the round for any side. 3 Super League sides, including holders Kings Lunsel, and Challenge League Henhaven Islanders will contest the semis.

by **Flavovespia** » Fri Nov 29, 2019 3:55 am

Matchday 26

Croxlich FC 1–2 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 1–1 Stanmorn FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–0 Apsbrooke FC
Sporting Towerhaite 2–2 South Maishop FC
Kings Lunsel FC 3–0 St Astons City FC
Vale FC 3–3 Waldster FC
Bavingtor FC 1–1 Binclestead Wood FC
Hadford Hill FC 0–0 Marthorpe City FC

In what could be a crucial Matchday, Langmere Green Rovers took a win whilst Marthorpe City were held to a scoreless draw at their local rivals Hadford Hill. The result puts Langmere Green Rovers 5 points clear with just 4 games to go. The derby between Bavingtor and Binclestead Wood saw a 1-1 draw, in a match not likely to determine much with neither side that close to the top or bottom.

Code: Select all: Super League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Langmere Green Rovers FC 26 17 4 5 40 20 +20 55 2 Marthorpe City FC 26 15 5 6 47 30 +17 50 3 Loxthorpe Rovers FC 26 13 9 4 37 25 +12 48 4 Stanmorn FC 26 12 5 9 40 37 +3 41 5 Kings Lunsel FC 26 11 6 9 50 46 +4 39 6 South Maishop FC 26 11 5 10 42 39 +3 38 7 St Astons City FC 26 10 6 10 44 42 +2 36 8 Apsbrooke FC 26 11 3 12 42 45 −3 36 9 Bavingtor FC 26 10 5 11 47 49 −2 35 10 Hadford Hill FC 26 8 8 10 42 41 +1 32 11 Binclestead Wood FC 26 8 8 10 34 35 −1 32 12 Waldster FC 26 7 9 10 40 43 −3 30 13 Croxlich FC 26 5 11 10 37 44 −7 26 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Sporting Towerhaite 26 6 8 12 33 49 −16 26 15 Butterfield Rovers FC 26 5 8 13 31 45 −14 23 16 Vale FC 26 5 8 13 26 42 −16 23 Challenge League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Westwood Garden City FC 26 14 8 4 48 33 +15 50 (PO/P) 2 Hopford FC 26 14 4 8 32 25 +7 46 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Guildwell Football 26 13 5 8 42 43 −1 44 4 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 26 11 10 5 43 33 +10 43 5 Carston Green FC 26 11 9 6 51 38 +13 42 6 Millsea FC 26 11 5 10 42 37 +5 38 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7 Abbots Lunsel FC 26 10 5 11 29 38 −9 35 8 Capton Club 26 9 7 10 41 31 +10 34 9 Narrock Wood United FC 26 9 7 10 37 33 +4 34 10 Nailwood Mills FC 26 8 9 9 38 43 −5 33 11 Rumlington Rovers FC 26 9 5 12 44 45 −1 32 12 Sandneston Rovers FC 26 8 8 10 38 45 −7 32 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13 Henhaven Islanders FC 26 8 7 11 30 39 −9 31 14 Captonbridge Rangers FC 26 7 4 15 37 53 −16 25 15 Claychester FC 26 4 12 10 31 37 −6 24 16 Boll Lake Mariners FC 26 5 9 12 30 40 −10 24 Western League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 North Mayshop FC 26 17 4 5 53 37 +16 55 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Redthwaite Rangers FC 26 14 10 2 45 27 +18 52 3 Saltearth FC 26 14 5 7 51 41 +10 47 4 Slaton FC 26 12 9 5 49 30 +19 45 5 Vitarias Legion 26 12 9 5 38 27 +11 45 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Havermilly FC 26 12 7 7 38 19 +19 43 7 Old Marthorpe FC 26 11 5 10 38 30 +8 38 8 Napsmouth FC 26 9 5 12 36 41 −5 32 9 Caffchin FC 26 8 7 11 28 32 −4 31 10 Langpool Capton FC 26 7 7 12 31 39 −8 28 11 Alstone FC 26 7 7 12 25 34 −9 28 12 Boleland Wood Town FC 26 7 6 13 42 52 −10 27 13 Melcave Meerkats 26 6 8 12 28 32 −4 26 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Magic Roundabout FC 26 6 7 13 20 34 −14 25 15 Westwood FC 26 5 10 11 30 49 −19 25 16 Ellerstone United FC 26 5 6 15 23 51 −28 21 Eastern League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cartswood FC 26 20 3 3 47 14 +33 63 (PO/P) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Oxwich FC 26 17 6 3 51 24 +27 57 (PO/P) 3 Gann FC 26 14 4 8 42 28 +14 46 4 Buchraston FC 26 13 5 8 52 41 +11 44 5 Locksmith-on-Carron FC 26 12 6 8 40 41 −1 42 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Whittlesbury Wanderers 26 11 5 10 47 39 +8 38 7 Henhaven Beachside 26 11 4 11 41 41 0 37 8 Buchraston Heath FC 26 11 4 11 42 44 −2 37 9 Johns Park FC 26 10 5 11 38 36 +2 35 10 Radstye Rangers FC 26 9 6 11 37 42 −5 33 11 Leabury FC 26 9 6 11 38 46 −8 33 12 FC North Waldster 26 7 5 14 35 50 −15 26 13 Ashland Common 26 5 9 12 33 38 −5 24 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Frostbrook Rovers FC 26 5 9 12 32 44 −12 24 15 Queens FC 26 6 5 15 35 55 −20 23 16 Henhaven Palace FC 26 3 8 15 32 59 −27 17 (PO/P) = Playoff guaranteed, but still able to promote automatically

Matchday 27

Hadford Hill FC 3–1 Croxlich FC
Marthorpe City FC 2–0 Bavingtor FC
Binclestead Wood FC 3–3 Vale FC
Waldster FC 2–1 Kings Lunsel FC
St Astons City FC 3–1 Sporting Towerhaite
South Maishop FC 3–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Apsbrooke FC 2–2 Butterfield Rovers FC
Stanmorn FC 2–1 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Nervous times arose for the Langmere Green Rovers fans, as a 3-1 loss away at South Maishop cuts their lead down to 2 points. At the bottom end, Croxlich and Sporting Towerhaite have 26 points, and Butterfield Rovers and Vale have 24 points, and it looks like only 1 of those 4 will get to safety, now that Waldster get to 33 points. Stanmorn beat Loxthorpe Rovers 2-1, in their attempts to keep the race for 3rd place alive.

Code: Select all: Super League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Langmere Green Rovers FC 27 17 4 6 41 23 +18 55 2 Marthorpe City FC 27 16 5 6 49 30 +19 53 3 Loxthorpe Rovers FC 27 13 9 5 38 27 +11 48 4 Stanmorn FC 27 13 5 9 42 38 +4 44 5 South Maishop FC 27 12 5 10 45 40 +5 41 6 St Astons City FC 27 11 6 10 47 43 +4 39 7 Kings Lunsel FC 27 11 6 10 51 48 +3 39 8 Apsbrooke FC 27 11 4 12 44 47 −3 37 9 Hadford Hill FC 27 9 8 10 45 42 +3 35 10 Bavingtor FC 27 10 5 12 47 51 −4 35 11 Binclestead Wood FC 27 8 9 10 37 38 −1 33 12 Waldster FC 27 8 9 10 42 44 −2 33 13 Croxlich FC 27 5 11 11 38 47 −9 26 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Sporting Towerhaite 27 6 8 13 34 52 −18 26 15 Butterfield Rovers FC 27 5 9 13 33 47 −14 24 16 Vale FC 27 5 9 13 29 45 −16 24 Challenge League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Westwood Garden City FC 27 15 8 4 50 34 +16 53 (PO/P) 2 Hopford FC 27 15 4 8 33 25 +8 49 (PO/P) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 27 12 10 5 47 33 +14 46 (PO/P) 4 Carston Green FC 27 12 9 6 54 39 +15 45 5 Guildwell Football 27 13 5 9 43 45 −2 44 6 Millsea FC 27 11 5 11 42 38 +4 38 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7 Nailwood Mills FC 27 9 9 9 40 44 −4 36 8 Abbots Lunsel FC 27 10 5 12 29 42 −13 35 9 Capton Club 27 9 7 11 42 34 +8 34 10 Narrock Wood United FC 27 9 7 11 38 35 +3 34 11 Henhaven Islanders FC 27 9 7 11 32 40 −8 34 12 Rumlington Rovers FC 27 9 5 13 45 47 −2 32 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13 Sandneston Rovers FC 27 8 8 11 39 47 −8 32 14 Claychester FC 27 5 12 10 33 38 −5 27 15 Captonbridge Rangers FC 27 7 5 15 37 53 −16 26 16 Boll Lake Mariners FC 27 5 10 12 30 40 −10 25 Western League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 North Mayshop FC 27 17 4 6 54 39 +15 55 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Redthwaite Rangers FC 27 14 11 2 46 28 +18 53 3 Slaton FC 27 13 9 5 53 33 +20 48 4 Vitarias Legion 27 13 9 5 40 28 +12 48 5 Saltearth FC 27 14 6 7 52 42 +10 48 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Havermilly FC 27 13 7 7 39 19 +20 46 7 Old Marthorpe FC 27 11 6 10 40 32 +8 39 8 Napsmouth FC 27 9 5 13 39 45 −6 32 9 Alstone FC 27 8 7 12 31 36 −5 31 10 Caffchin FC 27 8 7 12 28 33 −5 31 11 Boleland Wood Town FC 27 8 6 13 44 52 −8 30 12 Langpool Capton FC 27 7 7 13 31 41 −10 28 13 Melcave Meerkats 27 6 9 12 29 33 −4 27 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Magic Roundabout FC 27 6 8 13 22 36 −14 26 15 Westwood FC 27 5 10 12 32 55 −23 25 16 Ellerstone United FC 27 5 7 15 24 52 −28 22 Eastern League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cartswood FC 27 21 3 3 48 14 +34 66 (PO/P) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Oxwich FC 27 18 6 3 54 24 +30 60 (PO/P) 3 Gann FC 27 14 5 8 42 28 +14 47 4 Buchraston FC 27 13 6 8 54 43 +11 45 5 Locksmith-on-Carron FC 27 12 6 9 40 42 −2 42 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Whittlesbury Wanderers 27 11 6 10 49 41 +8 39 7 Buchraston Heath FC 27 11 5 11 44 46 −2 38 8 Henhaven Beachside 27 11 4 12 41 42 −1 37 9 Johns Park FC 27 10 5 12 39 39 0 35 10 Leabury FC 27 9 7 11 40 48 −8 34 11 Radstye Rangers FC 27 9 6 12 37 43 −6 33 12 Frostbrook Rovers FC 27 6 9 12 33 44 −11 27 13 Queens FC 27 7 5 15 38 56 −18 26 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 FC North Waldster 27 7 5 15 35 53 −18 26 15 Ashland Common 27 5 10 12 33 38 −5 25 16 Henhaven Palace FC 27 4 8 15 33 59 −26 20

Matchday 28

Croxlich FC 5–4 Stanmorn FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 2–2 Apsbrooke FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 2–0 South Maishop FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 1–0 St Astons City FC
Sporting Towerhaite 6–4 Waldster FC
Kings Lunsel FC 1–2 Binclestead Wood FC
Vale FC 2–2 Marthorpe City FC
Bavingtor FC 1–2 Hadford Hill FC

Langmere Green Rovers got a crucial home win, and with Marthorpe City and Vale only drawing, they are on the brink of the title. 1 final win this season would do it, or a Marthorpe City loss. At the bottom end, only aforementioned Vale didn’t win, putting them precariously close to the drop. It was a 5-4 win for Croxlich over Stanmorn, but Sporting Towerhaite managed a 6-4 win over Waldster, as the race to escape relegation goes down to the final few games.

In the Challenge League, Westwood Garden City capped off a great season with an immediate return to the Super League, and now in the battle for the 2nd automatic promotion spot, Hopford play Batchingtonwood Rovers, 3rd vs 2nd, but both on 49 points, with Carston Green only 1 point behind.

Confirmed Champions, Promotions and Relegations:
Westwood Garden City promoted to the Super League
Westwood Garden City win the Challenge League
Claychester relegated to the Western/Eastern League
Captonbridge Rangers relegated to the Western/Eastern League
Boll Lake Mariners relegated to the Western/Eastern League
Cartswood promoted to the Challenge League
Cartswood win the Eastern League
Ellerstone United relegated to the Western/Eastern Alliance D1
Henhaven Palace relegated to the Western/Eastern Alliance D1

Code: Select all: Super League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Langmere Green Rovers FC 28 18 4 6 42 23 +19 58 2 Marthorpe City FC 28 16 6 6 51 32 +19 54 3 Loxthorpe Rovers FC 28 13 10 5 40 29 +11 49 4 Stanmorn FC 28 13 5 10 46 43 +3 44 5 South Maishop FC 28 12 5 11 45 42 +3 41 6 St Astons City FC 28 11 6 11 47 44 +3 39 7 Kings Lunsel FC 28 11 6 11 52 50 +2 39 8 Hadford Hill FC 28 10 8 10 47 43 +4 38 9 Apsbrooke FC 28 11 5 12 46 49 −3 38 10 Binclestead Wood FC 28 9 9 10 39 39 0 36 11 Bavingtor FC 28 10 5 13 48 53 −5 35 12 Waldster FC 28 8 9 11 46 50 −4 33 13 Croxlich FC 28 6 11 11 43 51 −8 29 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 14 Sporting Towerhaite 28 7 8 13 40 56 −16 29 15 Butterfield Rovers FC 28 6 9 13 35 47 −12 27 16 Vale FC 28 5 10 13 31 47 −16 25 Challenge League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Westwood Garden City FC 28 16 8 4 53 34 +19 56 (C,P) 2 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 28 13 10 5 49 33 +16 49 (PO/P) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 3 Hopford FC 28 15 4 9 34 28 +6 49 (PO/P) 4 Carston Green FC 28 13 9 6 59 42 +17 48 (PO/P) 5 Guildwell Football 28 13 5 10 46 50 −4 44 6 Nailwood Mills FC 28 10 9 9 43 46 −3 39 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7 Millsea FC 28 11 5 12 42 39 +3 38 8 Abbots Lunsel FC 28 11 5 12 32 43 −11 38 9 Capton Club 28 10 7 11 43 34 +9 37 10 Narrock Wood United FC 28 10 7 11 39 35 +4 37 11 Rumlington Rovers FC 28 10 5 13 49 49 0 35 12 Henhaven Islanders FC 28 9 7 12 34 43 −9 34 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 13 Sandneston Rovers FC 28 8 8 12 39 48 −9 32 14 Claychester FC 28 5 12 11 33 41 −8 27 (R) 15 Captonbridge Rangers FC 28 7 5 16 39 57 −18 26 (R) 16 Boll Lake Mariners FC 28 5 10 13 30 42 −12 25 (R) Western League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 North Mayshop FC 28 18 4 6 57 41 +16 58 (PO/P) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 2 Redthwaite Rangers FC 28 14 11 3 49 32 +17 53 (PO/P) 3 Havermilly FC 28 14 7 7 41 20 +21 49 4 Slaton FC 28 13 10 5 54 34 +20 49 5 Vitarias Legion 28 13 10 5 42 30 +12 49 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 6 Saltearth FC 28 14 6 8 53 44 +9 48 7 Old Marthorpe FC 28 12 6 10 42 33 +9 42 8 Caffchin FC 28 9 7 12 32 34 −2 34 9 Napsmouth FC 28 9 5 14 40 47 −7 32 10 Alstone FC 28 8 7 13 32 39 −7 31 11 Langpool Capton FC 28 8 7 13 35 44 −9 31 12 Boleland Wood Town FC 28 8 6 14 46 55 −9 30 13 Magic Roundabout FC 28 7 8 13 25 37 −12 29 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 14 Melcave Meerkats 28 6 10 12 31 35 −4 28 15 Westwood FC 28 5 11 12 33 56 −23 26 16 Ellerstone United FC 28 5 7 16 25 56 −31 22 (R) Eastern League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cartswood FC 28 21 4 3 48 14 +34 67 (C,P) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 2 Oxwich FC 28 18 6 4 55 26 +29 60 3 Gann FC 28 14 6 8 44 30 +14 48 4 Buchraston FC 28 14 6 8 55 43 +12 48 5 Locksmith-on-Carron FC 28 12 7 9 40 42 −2 43 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 6 Buchraston Heath FC 28 12 5 11 46 47 −1 41 7 Henhaven Beachside 28 12 4 12 43 42 +1 40 8 Whittlesbury Wanderers 28 11 6 11 49 43 +6 39 9 Johns Park FC 28 10 5 13 41 42 −1 35 10 Leabury FC 28 9 8 11 42 50 −8 35 11 Radstye Rangers FC 28 9 6 13 37 44 −7 33 12 FC North Waldster 28 8 5 15 38 55 −17 29 13 Frostbrook Rovers FC 28 6 10 12 36 47 −11 28 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 14 Queens FC 28 7 6 15 40 58 −18 27 15 Ashland Common 28 5 11 12 35 40 −5 26 16 Henhaven Palace FC 28 4 9 15 36 62 −26 21 (R) (C) = Champions of division (P) = Promoted (R) = Relegated

Matchday 29

Bavingtor FC 1–0 Croxlich FC
Hadford Hill FC 1–0 Vale FC
Marthorpe City FC 0–1 Kings Lunsel FC
Binclestead Wood FC 2–2 Sporting Towerhaite
Waldster FC 4–3 Langmere Green Rovers FC
St Astons City FC 1–0 Butterfield Rovers FC
South Maishop FC 0–2 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Apsbrooke FC 1–4 Stanmorn FC

In the early kickoff, Langmere Green Rovers couldn’t wrap up the title at Waldster, losing 4-3 at Hornet’s Nest. It didn’t matter though, as in the City Arena in the evening kick-off, Marthorpe City suffered a 0-1 home loss. That result confirmed Langmere Green Rovers are Super League champions for the first ever time, sparking wild celebrations in the town. At the wrong end, a loss at Hadford Hill confirmed that Vale were now relegated to the Challenge League.

In the Challenge League, Batchingtonwood Rovers won 1-2 at Hopford, and with Carston Green losing at home to Challenge League winners Westwood Garden City, only an improbable goal difference swing of 13 would see them not get their first ever promotion to the Super League. Sadly for the 4 promoted teams to the Challenge League, all of them were relegated back to the Western/Eastern League. Going the other way are North Mayshop and Cartswood, both winning their respective divisions.

Confirmed Champions, Promotions and Relegations:
Langmere Green Rovers win the Super League
Vale relegated to the Challenge League
Sandneston Rovers relegated to the Western/Eastern League
North Mayshop promoted to the Challenge League
Westwood relegated to the Western/Eastern Alliance D1

Code: Select all: Super League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Langmere Green Rovers FC 29 18 4 7 45 27 +18 58 (C) 2 Marthorpe City FC 29 16 6 7 51 33 +18 54 3 Loxthorpe Rovers FC 29 14 10 5 42 29 +13 52 4 Stanmorn FC 29 14 5 10 50 44 +6 47 5 St Astons City FC 29 12 6 11 48 44 +4 42 6 Kings Lunsel FC 29 12 6 11 53 50 +3 42 7 Hadford Hill FC 29 11 8 10 48 43 +5 41 8 South Maishop FC 29 12 5 12 45 44 +1 41 9 Bavingtor FC 29 11 5 13 49 53 −4 38 10 Apsbrooke FC 29 11 5 13 47 53 −6 38 11 Binclestead Wood FC 29 9 10 10 41 41 0 37 12 Waldster FC 29 9 9 11 50 53 −3 36 13 Sporting Towerhaite 29 7 9 13 42 58 −16 30 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Croxlich FC 29 6 11 12 43 52 −9 29 15 Butterfield Rovers FC 29 6 9 14 35 48 −13 27 16 Vale FC 29 5 10 14 31 48 −17 25 (R) Challenge League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Westwood Garden City FC 29 17 8 4 56 34 +22 59 (C,P) 2 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 29 14 10 5 51 34 +17 52 (PO/P) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Hopford FC 29 15 4 10 35 30 +5 49 (PO/P) 4 Carston Green FC 29 13 9 7 59 45 +14 48 (PO) 5 Guildwell Football 29 13 6 10 46 50 −4 45 (PO) 6 Nailwood Mills FC 29 11 9 9 46 47 −1 42 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7 Millsea FC 29 12 5 12 44 40 +4 41 8 Narrock Wood United FC 29 11 7 11 41 35 +6 40 9 Rumlington Rovers FC 29 11 5 13 50 49 +1 38 10 Abbots Lunsel FC 29 11 5 13 32 45 −13 38 11 Capton Club 29 10 7 12 44 37 +7 37 12 Henhaven Islanders FC 29 10 7 12 36 44 −8 37 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13 Sandneston Rovers FC 29 8 9 12 39 48 −9 33 (R) 14 Claychester FC 29 5 12 12 34 43 −9 27 (R) 15 Captonbridge Rangers FC 29 7 5 17 40 59 −19 26 (R) 16 Boll Lake Mariners FC 29 5 10 14 30 43 −13 25 (R) Western League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 North Mayshop FC 29 18 5 6 58 42 +16 59 (C,P) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Redthwaite Rangers FC 29 14 12 3 50 33 +17 54 (PO) 3 Slaton FC 29 14 10 5 56 34 +22 52 4 Havermilly FC 29 15 7 7 42 20 +22 52 5 Saltearth FC 29 15 6 8 55 45 +10 51 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Vitarias Legion 29 13 10 6 42 33 +9 49 7 Old Marthorpe FC 29 12 7 10 43 34 +9 43 8 Caffchin FC 29 10 7 12 35 34 +1 37 9 Napsmouth FC 29 10 5 14 45 50 −5 35 10 Langpool Capton FC 29 8 8 13 36 45 −9 32 11 Melcave Meerkats 29 7 10 12 32 35 −3 31 12 Alstone FC 29 8 7 14 33 41 −8 31 13 Boleland Wood Town FC 29 8 6 15 46 56 −10 30 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Magic Roundabout FC 29 7 8 14 25 39 −14 29 15 Westwood FC 29 5 11 13 36 61 −25 26 (R) 16 Ellerstone United FC 29 5 7 17 25 57 −32 22 (R) Eastern League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cartswood FC 29 21 5 3 48 14 +34 68 (C,P) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Oxwich FC 29 19 6 4 60 29 +31 63 (PO) 3 Buchraston FC 29 15 6 8 57 43 +14 51 (PO) 4 Gann FC 29 14 7 8 44 30 +14 49 (PO) 5 Locksmith-on-Carron FC 29 12 7 10 40 43 −3 43 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Whittlesbury Wanderers 29 12 6 11 50 43 +7 42 7 Henhaven Beachside 29 12 5 12 45 44 +1 41 8 Buchraston Heath FC 29 12 5 12 46 48 −2 41 9 Johns Park FC 29 11 5 13 42 42 0 38 10 Leabury FC 29 9 9 11 44 52 −8 36 11 Radstye Rangers FC 29 9 6 14 40 49 −9 33 12 FC North Waldster 29 8 6 15 39 56 −17 30 13 Frostbrook Rovers FC 29 6 10 13 36 49 −13 28 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Queens FC 29 7 7 15 40 58 −18 28 15 Ashland Common 29 5 12 12 36 41 −5 27 16 Henhaven Palace FC 29 4 10 15 36 62 −26 22 (R)

Matchday 30
Croxlich FC 1–0 Apsbrooke FC
Stanmorn FC 1–2 South Maishop FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–2 St Astons City FC
Butterfield Rovers FC 2–0 Waldster FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 0–1 Binclestead Wood FC
Sporting Towerhaite 2–0 Marthorpe City FC
Kings Lunsel FC 0–2 Hadford Hill FC
Vale FC 1–0 Bavingtor FC

There was little to play for at the top, which might explain why all 4 of the Top 4 this season lost their final game. The big battle was between Sporting Towerhaite, Croxlich and Butterfield Rovers to stay up. All 3 managed to win at home in the final game, which saved Sporting Towerhaite as they finished 13th. Croxlich go straight back down, but for Butterfield Rovers, 11 years in the Super League have come to an end, as they have to dust off the maps and return to the venues of the Challenge League.

Batchingwood Rovers confirmed their first ever trip to the Super League with a 1-1 home draw. One of the 4 playoff teams will join them with Hopford vs Guildwell Football and Carston Green vs Nailwood Mills the semi-final match-ups. Hopford have never made it to the Super League and Guildwell Football will want to come straight back up after their disappointing debut Super League appearance. In the other match, Carston Green are one of Flavovespia’s most famous clubs, especially in the classic era and would love a return to the Super League. A good run of form gave Nailwood Mills a 2nd consecutive 6th place, and it would be a great underdog story if they run the playoffs to get their first ever Super League appearance.

Confirmed Champions, Promotions and Relegations:
Croxlich relegated to the Challenge League
Butterfield Rovers relegated to the Challenge League
Batchingtonwood Rovers promoted to the Super League
Magic Roundabout relegated to the Western/Eastern Alliance D1
Queens relegated to the Western/Eastern Alliance D1
Ashland Common relegated to the Western/Eastern Alliance D1

Final standings, including Alliance D1 and Alliance D2

Code: Select all: Super League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Langmere Green Rovers FC 30 18 4 8 45 28 +17 58 2 Marthorpe City FC 30 16 6 8 51 35 +16 54 3 Loxthorpe Rovers FC 30 14 10 6 43 31 +12 52 4 Stanmorn FC 30 14 5 11 51 46 +5 47 5 St Astons City FC 30 13 6 11 50 45 +5 45 6 Hadford Hill FC 30 12 8 10 50 43 +7 44 7 South Maishop FC 30 13 5 12 47 45 +2 44 8 Kings Lunsel FC 30 12 6 12 53 52 +1 42 9 Binclestead Wood FC 30 10 10 10 42 41 +1 40 10 Bavingtor FC 30 11 5 14 49 54 −5 38 11 Apsbrooke FC 30 11 5 14 47 54 −7 38 12 Waldster FC 30 9 9 12 50 55 −5 36 13 Sporting Towerhaite 30 8 9 13 44 58 −14 33 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Croxlich FC 30 7 11 12 44 52 −8 32 15 Butterfield Rovers FC 30 7 9 14 37 48 −11 30 16 Vale FC 30 6 10 14 32 48 −16 28 Challenge League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Westwood Garden City FC 30 17 9 4 57 35 +22 60 2 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 30 14 11 5 52 35 +17 53 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Hopford FC 30 15 5 10 38 33 +5 50 4 Carston Green FC 30 13 9 8 60 47 +13 48 5 Nailwood Mills FC 30 12 9 9 48 47 +1 45 6 Guildwell Football 30 13 6 11 46 52 −6 45 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7 Millsea FC 30 13 5 12 46 41 +5 44 8 Narrock Wood United FC 30 11 8 11 42 36 +6 41 9 Rumlington Rovers FC 30 12 5 13 54 49 +5 41 10 Abbots Lunsel FC 30 12 5 13 38 47 −9 41 11 Capton Club 30 10 7 13 46 40 +6 37 12 Henhaven Islanders FC 30 10 7 13 36 48 −12 37 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13 Sandneston Rovers FC 30 8 10 12 40 49 −9 34 14 Captonbridge Rangers FC 30 8 5 17 43 61 −18 29 15 Claychester FC 30 5 12 13 36 49 −13 27 16 Boll Lake Mariners FC 30 5 11 14 33 46 −13 26 Western League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 North Mayshop FC 30 18 5 7 58 43 +15 59 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Havermilly FC 30 16 7 7 44 21 +23 55 3 Redthwaite Rangers FC 30 14 12 4 51 36 +15 54 4 Saltearth FC 30 16 6 8 58 45 +13 54 5 Slaton FC 30 14 10 6 56 37 +19 52 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Vitarias Legion 30 13 10 7 43 35 +8 49 7 Old Marthorpe FC 30 13 7 10 44 34 +10 46 8 Caffchin FC 30 10 7 13 36 37 −1 37 9 Napsmouth FC 30 10 6 14 45 50 −5 36 10 Langpool Capton FC 30 9 8 13 42 47 −5 35 11 Melcave Meerkats 30 8 10 12 35 36 −1 34 12 Boleland Wood Town FC 30 9 6 15 49 57 −8 33 13 Alstone FC 30 8 7 15 35 47 −12 31 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Magic Roundabout FC 30 7 9 14 27 41 −14 30 15 Westwood FC 30 5 12 13 38 63 −25 27 16 Ellerstone United FC 30 5 8 17 25 57 −32 23 Eastern League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cartswood FC 30 21 6 3 49 15 +34 69 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Oxwich FC 30 19 6 5 62 32 +30 63 3 Gann FC 30 15 7 8 45 30 +15 52 4 Buchraston FC 30 15 7 8 58 44 +14 52 5 Whittlesbury Wanderers 30 13 6 11 53 45 +8 45 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Buchraston Heath FC 30 13 5 12 47 48 −1 44 7 Locksmith-on-Carron FC 30 12 7 11 40 44 −4 43 8 Henhaven Beachside 30 12 5 13 45 45 0 41 9 Johns Park FC 30 11 6 13 45 45 0 39 10 Leabury FC 30 10 9 11 45 52 −7 39 11 Radstye Rangers FC 30 9 7 14 43 52 −9 34 12 Frostbrook Rovers FC 30 7 10 13 39 51 −12 31 13 FC North Waldster 30 8 7 15 39 56 −17 31 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Queens FC 30 7 8 15 40 58 −18 29 15 Ashland Common 30 5 12 13 36 42 −6 27 16 Henhaven Palace FC 30 4 10 16 38 65 −27 22 Western Alliance D1 Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 South Hadford United 30 20 2 8 67 47 +20 62 2 Panford FC 30 16 8 6 41 28 +13 56 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Maltsterbrack FC 30 15 6 9 59 42 +17 51 4 Hadford Industrial United 30 15 6 9 56 45 +11 51 5 Woodlee Farm 30 15 6 9 42 39 +3 51 6 Hadford Dacorum FC 30 13 8 9 42 36 +6 47 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7 Walbert Street FC 30 13 6 11 51 52 −1 45 8 Addenleigh Rangers FC 30 12 5 13 54 52 +2 41 9 Floombury United FC 30 12 4 14 52 48 +4 40 10 Combury FC 30 10 10 10 39 35 +4 40 11 Old Saints FC 30 11 5 14 54 57 −3 38 12 Flawthrope FC 30 10 7 13 38 35 +3 37 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13 Bridles End FC 30 10 6 14 39 52 −13 36 14 St Astons Abbey and Cathedral 30 6 9 15 39 64 −25 27 15 Prince Street Wanderers 30 6 8 16 25 42 −17 26 16 Bavingtor Airport FC 30 4 8 18 27 51 −24 20 Eastern Alliance D1 Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Woodbrook FC 30 19 5 6 48 27 +21 62 2 Highhadford FC 30 18 6 6 57 35 +22 60 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Oxwich Wood FC 30 18 4 8 47 26 +21 58 4 Sutsyridge FC 30 16 3 11 51 39 +12 51 5 Waldster Junction FC 30 13 9 8 48 40 +8 48 6 Calhead Rangers FC 30 14 5 11 54 52 +2 47 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7 Galling Rangers 7AU 30 13 7 10 57 55 +2 46 8 Lunselbury FC 30 12 3 15 51 50 +1 39 9 Camber Place FC 30 10 9 11 39 40 −1 39 10 Malter End FC 30 10 7 13 43 47 −4 37 11 Baxlee Blues 30 10 5 15 32 40 −8 35 12 Brimton FC 30 8 11 11 36 47 −11 35 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13 Rumlington Lakes FC 30 7 9 14 32 42 −10 30 14 Hillsight Bridge FC 30 6 11 13 46 58 −12 29 15 Ifleii FC 30 7 6 17 37 46 −9 27 16 Waldster Harriers FC 30 5 8 17 34 68 −34 23 Northern Alliance D2 Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Hadford Aerodrome 30 20 3 7 65 45 +20 63 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Binclestead Wood Common FC 30 16 5 9 45 32 +13 53 3 Phinmall Wood FC 30 14 10 6 43 25 +18 52 4 Barmount FC 30 16 4 10 51 41 +10 52 5 Pykrot End FC 30 15 6 9 47 37 +10 51 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Hilt Wood FC 30 13 10 7 53 42 +11 49 7 Kingsley Green FC 30 14 4 12 60 52 +8 46 8 Tadcester Wood FC 30 12 9 9 44 36 +8 45 9 Water Gardens FC 30 13 4 13 43 43 0 43 10 Parmo-by-Hadford FC 30 12 7 11 44 46 −2 43 11 Billingwax Browns 30 12 5 13 52 49 +3 41 12 Torstermound FC 30 11 6 13 49 50 −1 39 13 Gerald's Oak FC 30 7 11 12 40 46 −6 32 14 Hadford Bypass FC 30 9 2 19 37 58 −21 29 15 Northrise FC 30 5 9 16 36 55 −19 24 16 Palace Wood Village FC 30 1 5 24 24 76 −52 8 Western Alliance D2 Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Ellerstone Aerodrome 30 19 7 4 60 19 +41 64 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 FC The Rise 30 18 6 6 62 35 +27 60 3 St Astons Athletic 30 18 6 6 50 34 +16 60 4 Havermilly Hanger FC 30 17 8 5 63 42 +21 59 5 St Astons Striders FC 30 14 10 6 46 30 +16 52 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Presmoor Bridge Railway FC 30 16 3 11 51 36 +15 51 7 Bridge Hill FC 30 12 8 10 47 42 +5 44 8 Beachtree Rangers FC 30 10 9 11 38 40 −2 39 9 Oakwoods FC 30 10 8 12 51 59 −8 38 10 Carston Butterflies 30 8 12 10 47 52 −5 36 11 Saltearthbury FC 30 11 3 16 40 56 −16 36 12 Saxford FC 30 7 7 16 38 57 −19 28 13 Booker Park FC 30 6 8 16 26 43 −17 26 14 Presmoor Bridge AFC 30 6 7 17 32 49 −17 25 15 Capton Street FC 30 5 7 18 31 59 −28 22 16 Northlee United FC 30 5 7 18 33 62 −29 22 Southern Alliance D2 Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 FC North Orbital 30 17 8 5 62 38 +24 59 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Dame Roundabout FC 30 18 3 9 49 34 +15 57 3 Midlandsee FC 30 15 7 8 49 39 +10 52 4 Waldster Waterfields 30 15 6 9 64 48 +16 51 5 Kings FC 30 15 6 9 48 39 +9 51 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Marely Park FC 30 15 5 10 54 37 +17 50 7 Capton Valley FC 30 13 8 9 43 36 +7 47 8 Queens Road FC 30 13 8 9 55 50 +5 47 9 West Waldster Warriors 30 13 5 12 38 32 +6 44 10 Courtiers FC 30 12 8 10 40 46 −6 44 11 Great Fuzzbrooke Wood 30 9 9 12 36 44 −8 36 12 Garden Ash FC 30 7 10 13 37 44 −7 31 13 Cardinal Cross FC 30 7 7 16 39 53 −14 28 14 Kingsland FC 30 7 7 16 37 54 −17 28 15 UA North Waldster 30 6 7 17 36 59 −23 25 16 Digsbury FC 30 5 2 23 31 65 −34 17 Eastern Alliance D2 Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Hollytree FC 30 20 4 6 64 41 +23 64 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Aston Road FC 30 17 7 6 57 41 +16 58 3 Crimblewood Park FC 30 15 7 8 54 33 +21 52 4 Lukes Wood FC 30 13 10 7 43 36 +7 49 5 Whisbeleng Woods FC 30 12 12 6 51 35 +16 48 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Loxthorpe Green FC 30 12 9 9 50 46 +4 45 7 Narrock Community Sports 30 12 7 11 52 50 +2 43 8 Fullertons FC 30 12 7 11 39 38 +1 43 9 Buchraston Arches FC 30 12 5 13 43 38 +5 41 10 Pranglers Crouch FC 30 10 10 10 47 42 +5 40 11 Buchraston Mill FC 30 10 6 14 42 45 −3 36 12 Chesinglea Village FC 30 9 9 12 39 43 −4 36 13 Pranglen End FC 30 9 8 13 42 49 −7 35 14 FC Locksmith 30 9 4 17 40 65 −25 31 15 Capton Heath Village FC 30 3 10 17 28 62 −34 19 16 Chalk Hill FC 30 3 9 18 25 52 −27 18

by **Flavovespia** » Mon Dec 02, 2019 8:47 am

Promotion Playoffs

In the first semi final in the Challenge League, an upset occurred as 6th place Guildwell Football overcame a 1 goal deficit away from home with a 1-4 win over Hopford (3-5 aggregate) to book their place in the promotion play-off final. In the other semi final, Carston Green comfortably dispatched Nailwood Mills, and it was the 2 relegated sides of 26AU who would travel to St Astons, selected as the neutral venue, to determine which side would make a return to the Super League. The game went all the way to penalties, and it was the midfielder Michael Morely who scored the promotion winning penalty for Carston Green.

In the Western League, it was Redthwaite Rangers and Slaton who reached the final. The two neighbours would meet in St Astons City, and it was Slaton who won 0-2, to make it to the Challenge League. In the Eastern League, Oxwich, favourites to go up would meet Buchraston in the final. The venue was Loxthorpe, and another nervy playoff final match occurred, that went to penalties. Buchraston held their nerve the best, and made a somewhat surprising return to the Challenge League, leaving Oxwich stuck in the third tier for another season. Oxwich Wood, would join them, along side Maltserbrack who won their respective Alliance D1 playoffs.

Code: Select all: Challenge League Guildwell Football 1–2 Hopford FC Hopford FC 1–4 Guildwell Football Nailwood Mills FC 0–1 Carston Green FC Carston Green FC 4–1 Nailwood Mills FC Carston Green FC 1–1 Guildwell Football (1–1 AET) (3–2 pen.) Western League Slaton FC 2–0 Havermilly FC Havermilly FC 0–1 Slaton FC Saltearth FC 2–2 Redthwaite Rangers FC Redthwaite Rangers FC 1–0 Saltearth FC Redthwaite Rangers FC 0–2 Slaton FC Eastern League Whittlesbury Wanderers 2–1 Oxwich FC Oxwich FC 1–0 Whittlesbury Wanderers Buchraston FC 1–0 Gann FC Gann FC 3–2 Buchraston FC Oxwich FC 2–2 Buchraston FC (2–2 AET) (2–4 pen.) Western Alliance D1 Hadford Dacorum FC 0–1 Maltsterbrack FC Maltsterbrack FC 4–0 Hadford Dacorum FC Woodlee Farm 3–3 Hadford Industrial United Hadford Industrial United 2–2 Woodlee Farm Maltsterbrack FC 3–0 Hadford Industrial United Eastern Alliance D1 Calhead Rangers FC 3–2 Oxwich Wood FC Oxwich Wood FC 2–1 Calhead Rangers FC Waldster Junction FC 1–0 Sutsyridge FC Sutsyridge FC 0–0 Waldster Junction FC Oxwich Wood FC 4–2 Waldster Junction FC Northern Alliance D2 Pykrot End FC 2–2 Binclestead Wood Common FC Binclestead Wood Common FC 2–3 Pykrot End FC Barmount FC 3–3 Phinmall Wood FC Phinmall Wood FC 1–0 Barmount FC Phinmall Wood FC 1–1 Pykrot End FC (1–1 AET) (0–2 pen.) Western Alliance D2 St Astons Striders FC 2–1 FC The Rise FC The Rise 2–4 St Astons Striders FC Havermilly Hanger FC 2–1 St Astons Athletic St Astons Athletic 2–0 Havermilly Hanger FC St Astons Athletic 1–4 St Astons Striders FC Southern Alliance D2 Kings FC 2–3 Dame Roundabout FC Dame Roundabout FC 0–1 Kings FC Waldster Waterfields 4–2 Midlandsee FC Midlandsee FC 2–0 Waldster Waterfields Dame Roundabout FC 2–1 Midlandsee FC Eastern Alliance D2 Whisbeleng Woods FC 4–1 Aston Road FC Aston Road FC 4–3 Whisbeleng Woods FC Lukes Wood FC 0–0 Crimblewood Park FC Crimblewood Park FC 0–1 Lukes Wood FC Lukes Wood FC 3–0 Whisbeleng Woods FC

Secondary Cups

In the League Cup, for the 64 sides in the top 3 tiers, Waldster at least finished their disappointing season with a consolation victory over Langmere Green Rovers. Hopford impressed, the second tier side managing a semi-final appearance. In the Alliance Shield, played by the 96 "non-league" sides in the Alliance, a contrast in fortunes in a penalty shootout saw Hadford Industrial United defeat Lunselbury.

Code: Select all: League Cup Round 1 Radstye Rangers FC 0–1 Hadford Hill FC Boleland Wood Town FC 2–4 Vale FC Cartswood FC 0–1 Croxlich FC FC North Waldster 0–4 Sporting Towerhaite Redthwaite Rangers FC 4–3 Narrock Wood United FC Oxwich FC 0–1 Abbots Lunsel FC Frostbrook Rovers FC 0–1 Stanmorn FC Melcave Meerkats 0–2 Loxthorpe Rovers FC Caffchin FC 0–0 Kings Lunsel FC (0–2 AET) Westwood FC 2–5 Bavingtor FC Gann FC 2–2 Nailwood Mills FC (2–3 AET) Alstone FC 2–0 Captonbridge Rangers FC Ashland Common 0–1 Hopford FC Whittlesbury Wanderers 1–0 Westwood Garden City FC Leabury FC 0–0 Carston Green FC (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.) Havermilly FC 3–0 Marthorpe City FC Henhaven Beachside 2–2 Boll Lake Mariners FC (2–2 AET) (5–3 pen.) Ellerstone United FC 2–2 Guildwell Football (3–2 AET) Magic Roundabout FC 3–5 Binclestead Wood FC Slaton FC 1–0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC Buchraston FC 0–0 Rumlington Rovers FC (0–1 AET) Vitarias Legion 1–3 South Maishop FC Johns Park FC 1–3 Apsbrooke FC Queens FC 2–2 Capton Club (2–3 AET) Buchraston Heath FC 1–3 St Astons City FC Langpool Capton FC 1–4 Waldster FC Locksmith-on-Carron FC 0–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC Henhaven Palace FC 1–2 Claychester FC Saltearth FC 0–1 Sandneston Rovers FC Old Marthorpe FC 0–0 Butterfield Rovers FC (0–0 AET) (1–3 pen.) North Mayshop FC 2–2 Millsea FC (2–4 AET) Napsmouth FC 1–1 Henhaven Islanders FC (1–1 AET) (3–4 pen.) Round 2 Sporting Towerhaite 3–0 Hadford Hill FC Ellerstone United FC 2–2 Bavingtor FC (3–3 AET) (1–4 pen.) Claychester FC 1–1 Apsbrooke FC (2–1 AET) Kings Lunsel FC 1–0 Abbots Lunsel FC Vale FC 2–0 Whittlesbury Wanderers Havermilly FC 3–2 Slaton FC Henhaven Beachside 1–1 Waldster FC (1–1 AET) (5–6 pen.) Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–1 Sandneston Rovers FC Millsea FC 3–1 Redthwaite Rangers FC Nailwood Mills FC 0–2 Binclestead Wood FC Capton Club 0–0 Carston Green FC (0–1 AET) Loxthorpe Rovers FC 3–5 St Astons City FC Rumlington Rovers FC 1–1 South Maishop FC (1–1 AET) (2–4 pen.) Alstone FC 1–3 Stanmorn FC Hopford FC 2–1 Butterfield Rovers FC Henhaven Islanders FC 2–2 Croxlich FC (2–4 AET) Round 3 Havermilly FC 2–1 Claychester FC St Astons City FC 2–2 Waldster FC (2–2 AET) (1–3 pen.) Hopford FC 3–1 Bavingtor FC Carston Green FC 0–3 Langmere Green Rovers FC Kings Lunsel FC 2–0 Millsea FC Binclestead Wood FC 1–0 Vale FC South Maishop FC 1–1 Stanmorn FC (1–1 AET) (2–0 pen.) Croxlich FC 2–3 Sporting Towerhaite Quarter Finals Waldster FC 4–3 Sporting Towerhaite South Maishop FC 0–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC Kings Lunsel FC 4–0 Binclestead Wood FC Hopford FC 0–0 Havermilly FC (0–0 AET) (4–3 pen.) Semi Finals Waldster FC 3–0 Kings Lunsel FC Hopford FC 0–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC Final Waldster FC 2–0 Langmere Green Rovers FC Alliance Shield Northern Round 1 Phinmall Wood FC 0–4 Tadcester Wood FC Parmo-by-Hadford FC 0–1 Binclestead Wood Common FC Barmount FC 2–1 Pykrot End FC Hadford Bypass FC 0–3 Hadford Aerodrome Kingsley Green FC 2–1 Northrise FC Torstermound FC 3–1 Billingwax Browns Palace Wood Village FC 3–0 Water Gardens FC Gerald's Oak FC 1–0 Hilt Wood FC Western Round 1 Presmoor Bridge AFC 2–2 Bridge Hill FC (2–2 AET) (4–2 pen.) Ellerstone Aerodrome 3–1 Saxford FC Oakwoods FC 1–0 FC The Rise St Astons Striders FC 2–3 Havermilly Hanger FC Presmoor Bridge Railway FC 0–1 Carston Butterflies Booker Park FC 0–1 Northlee United FC Beachtree Rangers FC 0–3 St Astons Athletic Saltearthbury FC 3–1 Capton Street FC Southern Round 1 Garden Ash FC 1–1 FC North Orbital (1–4 AET) Kingsland FC 0–0 Queens Road FC (0–2 AET) Digsbury FC 1–4 Capton Valley FC Marely Park FC 5–2 Waldster Waterfields Great Fuzzbrooke Wood 1–0 UA North Waldster Courtiers FC 0–0 Kings FC (0–1 AET) Dame Roundabout FC 1–2 Midlandsee FC West Waldster Warriors 1–0 Cardinal Cross FC Eastern Round 1 Chesinglea Village FC 2–1 Aston Road FC Hollytree FC 0–1 Fullertons FC Buchraston Mill FC 0–1 Whisbeleng Woods FC Pranglen End FC 3–3 Loxthorpe Green FC (3–3 AET) (1–3 pen.) Capton Heath Village FC 2–1 Buchraston Arches FC Pranglers Crouch FC 3–0 Chalk Hill FC Narrock Community Sports 2–2 Crimblewood Park FC (3–3 AET) (4–1 pen.) FC Locksmith 1–0 Lukes Wood FC Western Round 2 Barmount FC 2–0 South Hadford United St Astons Athletic 0–1 Hadford Dacorum FC Saltearthbury FC 0–2 Floombury United FC Torstermound FC 1–1 Bavingtor Airport FC (1–2 AET) Tadcester Wood FC 3–1 Maltsterbrack FC Havermilly Hanger FC 2–0 Walbert Street FC Kingsley Green FC 1–3 Old Saints FC Hadford Aerodrome 2–0 Woodlee Farm Presmoor Bridge AFC 1–2 Flawthrope FC Ellerstone Aerodrome 1–2 Combury FC Northlee United FC 0–3 Addenleigh Rangers FC Carston Butterflies 4–2 St Astons Abbey and Cathedral Binclestead Wood Common FC 0–3 Prince Street Wanderers Gerald's Oak FC 2–3 Bridles End FC Oakwoods FC 1–2 Hadford Industrial United Palace Wood Village FC 0–2 Panford FC Eastern Round 2 Pranglers Crouch FC 0–1 Brimton FC Whisbeleng Woods FC 0–0 Waldster Harriers FC (1–0 AET) Capton Valley FC 0–0 Highhadford FC (0–1 AET) Marely Park FC 3–4 Sutsyridge FC Capton Heath Village FC 1–1 Ifleii FC (2–1 AET) Queens Road FC 0–1 Malter End FC Midlandsee FC 2–1 Woodbrook FC Kings FC 2–3 Waldster Junction FC Chesinglea Village FC 3–7 Lunselbury FC Great Fuzzbrooke Wood 4–2 Hillsight Bridge FC FC North Orbital 1–2 Rumlington Lakes FC West Waldster Warriors 1–1 Baxlee Blues (1–2 AET) Narrock Community Sports 3–4 Calhead Rangers FC Fullertons FC 0–1 Galling Rangers 7AU Loxthorpe Green FC 1–0 Camber Place FC FC Locksmith 0–1 Oxwich Wood FC Western Round 3 Havermilly Hanger FC 0–2 Addenleigh Rangers FC Hadford Aerodrome 2–1 Hadford Dacorum FC Prince Street Wanderers 1–0 Barmount FC Bridles End FC 1–1 Panford FC (1–2 AET) Combury FC 4–3 Tadcester Wood FC Carston Butterflies 1–1 Hadford Industrial United (1–3 AET) Old Saints FC 1–1 Floombury United FC (2–1 AET) Bavingtor Airport FC 1–1 Flawthrope FC (2–2 AET) (2–3 pen.) Eastern Round 3 Galling Rangers 7AU 1–1 Oxwich Wood FC (1–2 AET) Brimton FC 4–2 Malter End FC Sutsyridge FC 3–2 Rumlington Lakes FC Baxlee Blues 0–0 Waldster Junction FC (0–0 AET) (4–5 pen.) Loxthorpe Green FC 1–3 Highhadford FC Lunselbury FC 4–2 Capton Heath Village FC Whisbeleng Woods FC 5–2 Great Fuzzbrooke Wood Midlandsee FC 1–1 Calhead Rangers FC (1–3 AET) Western Quarter Finals Flawthrope FC 3–2 Hadford Aerodrome Combury FC 4–0 Addenleigh Rangers FC Prince Street Wanderers 1–3 Hadford Industrial United Panford FC 3–1 Old Saints FC Eastern Quarter Finals Sutsyridge FC 2–4 Waldster Junction FC Lunselbury FC 3–0 Whisbeleng Woods FC Oxwich Wood FC 2–3 Calhead Rangers FC Highhadford FC 0–0 Brimton FC (0–1 AET) Western Semi Finals Hadford Industrial United 1–0 Combury FC Flawthrope FC 1–0 Panford FC Eastern Semi Finals Lunselbury FC 3–1 Calhead Rangers FC Brimton FC 2–2 Waldster Junction FC (2–3 AET) Western Final Hadford Industrial United 1–1 Flawthrope FC (2–1 AET) Eastern Final Waldster Junction FC 2–2 Lunselbury FC (2–3 AET) Final Lunselbury FC 2–2 Hadford Industrial United (2–2 AET) (0–3 pen.)

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Final

Kings Lunsel FC 4–3 Apsbrooke FC

Hadford Hill's Highland Road hosted the Flavovespia Gold Cup, with Kings Lunsel the defending champions and Apsbrooke were in the final again, having done so in 24AU. The game itself was a classic final. In the 13th minute, a good through ball from Jordaan Wolfson put Edward Barkes through on goal, and he made it 1-0. Not one minute later, and Andrew Jenning's speculative long range effort hit the underside of the crossbar and bounced in. 10 minutes later, and Apsbrooke took the lead. Fletcher found space in the box, and got his shot low and accurately past Robert Jones in the Kings Lunsel goal. Another 10 minutes later, and Fletcher got his second, this time from a cross by John Howden that he rose highest to get. 1-3 at half time, and it looked like a new name could be on the trophy. However, Kings Lunsel weren't out of it. Chris Flynn pulled off a great mazy run and accurate shot to reduce the deficit in the 55th minute. Wolfson got the equaliser in the 68th minute, with a powerful effort on the edge of the box that flew past 2 defenders and keeper Conor Harrington. Extra time was looming, but in the first minute of injury time, Brian Woodcock found space for a shot just inside the box. It curled to beat Harrington, and went into the net, completing a remarkable comeback. Apsbrooke threw everything at Kings Lunsel in the dying moments, but it came to nothing, and Kings Lunsel had successfully defended the Flavovespia Gold Cup.

by **Flavovespia** » Tue Dec 03, 2019 8:48 am

Super League Review

Vale FC

The yo-yo reputation and second season syndrome struck Vale FC, as they took the wooden spoon of the Super League, and return to the Challenge League. They showed signs of being a comfortable midfield outfit in the first-half of the season, but a run of 4 consecutive losses pushed them into the relegation zone. Despite hope they could break clear, another 4 consecutive losses, amounting to a period of 4 points in 10 games, knocked them to the bottom of the table, where they would ultimately finish. In cup competitions they reached the 3rd round of both, a pretty average performance although it did include an away win on penalties at Hadford Hill.

For Vale, it was a disappointing end to their campaign, when fans finally thought they had turned a new corner. Adding to the disappointment was the eventual survival of local rivals Sporting Towerhaite, and the continued performance of another of their local rivals Stanmorn. The sale of Robert Clayton, their impressive striker from 26AU, seemed to play a big factor, as they had the lowest goals scored in the Super League. The season also saw Vale legend Keith Baker retire, his presence in the defence sure to be missed.

Vale will return to territory fans will remember, but will hope to not make a long home. The Challenge League can always be competitive at the top, especially with an abundance of ex-Super League sides, and big names from yesteryear. Nevertheless, a play-off position should be the bare minimum, as Vale will look to make another return to the Super League.

Butterfield Rovers FC

After 11 seasons in a row in the Super League, Butterfield Rovers have been relegated to the Challenge League. Although not considered one of Flavovespia’s big name clubs, they’ve actually spent 23 of the 27 seasons of the modern era in the Super League, so their relegation is a bit of a shock. However, poor transfer business was a major issue, no good replacement for John Lawler left them short of goals, and even though in the final day they were mathematically in with a chance of survival, they never left the relegation zone the entire second half of the season.

In the Flavovespia Gold Cup, eventual winners Kings Lunsel knocked them out in Round 4, in one of the few bright sparks of the season for Butterfield Rovers. The relegation of Butterfield Rovers also raises questions about moving out of Fire Park. The 12’822 seater stadium has seen better days, and Butterfield Rovers were looking at a new 20’000-30’000 seater stadium. Plans for that will now be on hold though, whilst finances are assessed. A plethora of young players showed promise, including Lancelot Wray, Michael McGarry and Michael Collins, but them and others were sold in an exodus following the end of the season.

Despite all of the player sales and the shock of relegation, Butterfield Rovers have never spent more than 2 consecutive seasons outside the Super League. With many of their squad still possessing Super League experience, and with money from player sales, they look like strong favourites to win the Challenge League, and a Top 2 finish must be a minimum expectation.

Croxlich FC

Having spent the entirety of the 10’s in the Challenge League, they’ve started to yo-yo this decade. Favourites to be relegated this season, they somewhat outperformed expectations, but were just short of survival, and will return to the Challenge League. They were knocked out of the Flavovespia Gold Cup, the League Cup and finished 1 point behind Sporting Towerhaite, a team Croxlich fans must surely be now consider insufferable.

Croxlich only suffered 12 losses, which was in the same ballpark as all teams outside of the Top 3. However only 7 wins, only matched or lowered by the other relegated sides, ultimately proved to be their undoing. Although the team themselves didn’t quite reach safety, they had some breakout stars. Aarif Muhammad took the starting goalkeeper job at just 18 at the start of the season, and Anthony Hannigan turned out to be a precocious star in midfield. Both have received considerable transfer fees to move to Stanmorn and Hadford Hill respectively.

Croxlich go into the Challenge League with a good shot at a Top 2 place and automatic promotion, but it is in no way assured. They should be aiming for the playoffs, but of the 3 relegated sides, could be the one to stay outside the Super League for the longest period of time.

Sporting Towerhaite

A team that always seems to be in relegation battles in the Super League, Sporting Towerhaite pulled out a great escape, taking a vital 2-0 on the final day of the season at home to Marthorpe City, keeping in the Super League for another season. The fans would have very well hoped to have seen the side progress from 12th last season, but at least relegation was avoided, by the margin of just 1 point. They had some decent cup runs with a quarter final appearance in the League Cup. In the Flavovespia Gold Cup, they reached the semis, but couldn’t make their home advantage count in a 0-1 loss to Kings Lunsel.

There was something of a changing of the guard, with veterans falling out of the first team. Garry Henderson and James Miskell both saw far less appearances than were expected, and have now since departed the club. John Sizer, despite wearing #4, looks set for just one more season in the Super League before retirement. Richard Doughty filled the shoes of Marc Sharratt, but like his predecessor, Doughty has since moved on, this time to Binclestead Wood who were prepared to put big money behind him.

For Sporting Towerhaite, it’s hard to see them break free from the cycle of struggling to survive each season, much as they’ll claim next year will be a better year for the side. It isn’t beyond the realms of possibility, but much like this season, cup success is more likely than league success.

Waldster FC

Even the consolation of a League Cup win doesn’t really add much shine to what was frankly, an embarrassing season for Waldster. Having finished 3rd last season, and taking the title fight all the way to the last game of the season, fans were hoping that they could mount another title challenge. Optimism after 10 games faded with a run of 6 losses in a row, as they fell to 12th in the table, where they’d stay for the rest of the season. Add to that, an embarrassing loss in the Flavovespia Gold Cup, away to Old Marthorpe 2 divisions below them, summed up a dismal season.

Some were trying to suggest injuries may have been an issue, but the squad weren’t completely decimated. Much of the blame was shouldered on John Lawler, their record signing. Although the team scored 50, he could only muster 10 goals this campaign, and by the end was being outclassed by his own teammates up front, including the young Michael Cole. With an aging squad, Waldster have looked to turn for an overhaul at the transfer market, bringing in young talent to try and rebuild for the future.

Waldster certainly should not expect to be 12th again next season. A Top 8 finish should be the bare minimum of expectations, with some fans expecting a Top 4. At the very least, they’ll want to beat Hadford Hill and St Astons City, their 2 rivals who have had struggles in the past decade or so, but now appeared to have turned a new page.

Apsbrooke FC

After the highs of 5th place last season, it was unlikely that Apsbrooke would manage that again. 11th place after initially struggling at the start of the season would probably please the fans, and although they ultimately lost the Flavovespia Gold Cup final, reaching it was a great achievement, even if they once again fell short at the final hurdle. Always seen as one of the smaller Super League sides, Apsbrooke finally have confirmation in 29AU they’ll be moving to a new stadium.

A squad that seems largely built on a mixture of experienced veterans and up and coming talent, sometimes there were signs of inexperience and fatigue, but other times when the squad clicked, they outperformed expectations. For Apsbrooke, they saw good performances from veterans Harrington and Calvert, and youngster Ross. Big signing Elvidge was so-so this season, and will be keen to justify his big transfer fee next season.

Apsbrooke probably have enough in them to survive next season in the Super League. Their fans will dream of another run near the top end of the table, but ultimately comfortable safety in the Super League will be the order of the day for them.

Bavingtor FC

1 position up from 26AU for Bavingtor, in a pretty average season. They did suffer a disappointing loss away to Challenge League Narrock Wood United in the Flavovespia Gold Cup however, which disappointed the fans as it was in the final 16. Bavingtor were one of the teams who were injury affected, as evident by a drop in form from the early stages of the season. Disappoint was apparent for fans when they finished below fierce rivals Binclestead Wood, although their other rivals Butterfield Rovers were relegated.

It’s hard to talk about Bavingtor without discussing the injury to David Meehan. He was looking a little below par, but in the 12th game of the season, he went down without contact, attempting to clear the ball. The injury turned out to be a season-ending knee injury. Joel Loader came in, but he seemed to struggle, and by the end of the season, emergency 3rd choice, teenager Thomas Foley came in, and showed some promising signs. For that, he’s been granted a full-time contract for the next season.

Bavingtor could potentially push up to the Top 8 next season, which is what fans would want (barring another miracle title run). However, another finish in the 9th-12th region, away from relegation fears, would also placate the board.

Binclestead Wood FC

Binclestead Wood were playing their first ever season as a newly promoted side to the Super League, at least in the modern era. Despite some turbulent scenes off the field, they eventually came through with a 9th place finish, and no real threat of relegation, alongside a Quarter Final appearance in the Flavovespia Gold Cup. They finished the Super League with a 10-10-10 record, about as average as you can get.

Having gone heavy in the transfer market upon their return, they did get returns from their transfers. Ian Johnson impressed in the defence, to get himself an international call-up, and Malcolm Golfin contributed with goals and assists up top. Christopher Ace also proved to be impressive in the Super League, like he was in the Challenge League, and now looks set to be sold for a big money sum.

Despite being newly promoted in 27AU, they didn’t feel like a “new” team to many in Flavovespia. Avoiding second season syndrome will be key for Binclestead Wood, as they will aim to try and move up the table, or at the very least do better than Bavingtor. An active transfer window could help to achieve this goal.

Kings Lunsel FC

8th in the league was a fair result for Kings Lunsel, but they pulled off a defence of the Flavovespia Gold Cup title, impressing their own fans, and the nation. An omnipresent team in the Super League, they were in the upper echelons of the table for much of the season, but ultimately didn’t quite have the form to move up, although it was only 5 points off of 4th place for them.

Kings Lunsel were boosted this season by some quality in their squad. International defender Tony Gardner continued to be a powerful figure in defence, and Jordaan Wolfson and Thomas English were important figures in the heart of the midfield of the Kings. Despite his age as well, Brian Woodcock scored an impressive 16 goals in the Super League, with Chris Flynn on the wing managing to get 10 goals as well as Kings Lunsel were the highest scoring team in the league.

For Kings Lunsel, the cup success continues to be enjoyed, but the fans will hope that the team can kick on, and find a way to get beyond 8th place for next season. It’s quite possible that will happen, but it can’t be taken for granted, especially now manager Albert Henderson retired, his last game being a Flavovespia Gold Cup victory.

South Maishop FC

The “little team in the mountains”, as some nicknamed them, have managed to pull off an impressive 7th place in another climb to the Super League. Many had South Maishop and Croxlich down as likely to be relegated, but a turn around in form in the 2nd half saw South Maishop rise up the table, at one point in 5th and not very far off of a Top 4 place at all. Ultimately they were only 7th, but their fans were delighted with that. Yes, they did lose in Round 2 of the Flavovespia Gold Cup, the round they entered at, but it was to Super League opposition.

South Maishop were buoyed by a great run of form towards the second half of the season, as performances exceeded expectations. Young keeper Lucky Diamond proved to be effective between the sticks, earning himself a place in Flavovespia’s international squad. Many of their Challenge League veterans also stepped up to the plate, and proved they could take it to the next level. A team on a modest budget, smart business with contracts and transfers helped them to a great top half finish.

Fans will hope for a similar position next season, but realistically, they have to prepare for a challenge, to make sure they maintain their Super League status, as in the past South Maishop have struggled to keep form from season to season. The lovable underdogs will hope to keep their time in the Super League longer than fans of any other club expect them to.

Hadford Hill FC

A team who have been suffering the past 15 or so years, with nowhere near the level of success they used to enjoy, Hadford Hill are starting to turn it around. 6th place and an early cup exit doesn’t really seem to match expectations of the older days, but in the last couple of years, it does show a turnaround in form. They still dream of the days of the Big 3, but in the modern era, it seems as if there’s far more clubs challenging at the top than ever before.

In terms of performance, Steven Hall once again starred, with 14 goals and 11 assists in 30 league games, making an appearance in every match. Nigel Humphries and Alan Holt were also strong performers in the middle of the park for Hadford Hill, who often dominated in the midfield. The team will be very glad to see that they’ve managed to keep most of their side, especially Steven Hall, who’s rumoured move abroad never materialised in the end.

Hadford Hill fans dream of returning to their trophy winning days. Realistically however, competition at the top is very fierce. Breaking into the Top 4 is the ambition, but 5th-8th is the sort of ball-park that Hadford Hill look set to stay in, at least for another season or so.

St Astons City FC

A change in manager, to Charlie Holton at the start of the season, looked shaky initially, but eventually paid off as the Saints managed to secure a 5th place finish. Not quite as impressive as the cup winning season of 23AU, nor the 2nd and 3rd of 24AU and 25AU respectively, but it’s still a good performance. St Astons City at least finished highest of the classic “Big 3”, something that always pleases their fans. They only reached Round 3 of the Flavovespia Gold Cup and League Cup but were knocked out by eventual champions in both competitions.

Guoliang Fu and Marc Sharratt linked up well in the forward play for St Astons City, with a good return of goals and assists between them. The former has now departed to club football abroad, but St Astons look set to sign Christopher Ace as a replacement. Defensive fragility at times seemed to come from a lack of experience at the back, although transfer business in terms of new defensive signings looks minimal. A side with plenty of players coming up to their peak, as they hope to reach higher levels.

Like Hadford Hill and Waldster, St Astons City fans are getting used to the new paradigm of many more clubs able to challenge for titles. St Astons City will harbour ambitions of a Top 4 finish next season, but may have to be content to finish in the lower reaches of the top half.

Stanmorn FC

First time ever in their history they came into a season as the defending Super League champions. Although they looked strong at times, they couldn’t put together the run of form they needed for a successful title defence, and eventually came 4th, just ahead of a close pack of teams. Their defensive record, far below that of the top 3 teams, was ultimately an issue for Stanmorn. 2 Round 3 exits in the cup competitions summed up a season that by Stanmorn’s old standards would be very good, but as defending champions was a bit of a let down.

A tale of two havles when it came to the team. It’s impossible to overstate how important the front 3 of Andrew Mason, Sean McClafferty and Scott Coleman were to Stanmorn’s season, between them they scored 43 of the 51 league goals the side got. In midfield, James King and Charles Winward were a dynamic duo who cut through many opponents. However the defence was very suspect at times, only Neil Wright and keeper Richard Hartwell (who has now moved abroad) consistently performing well. Too any games were lost by reckless marking and poor positioning in the back line.

Being a settled Top 4 side is something Stanmorn would love to see, but with results this season, they could be in a fierce battle with several other teams to maintain that. A few good signings, plus the reward of the Dwile Invitational appearance could help them to fulfil their goals.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC

They went one better than last season, with a 3rd place finish. However, that seldom heals the blow of watching their fierce local rivals Langmere Green Rovers take their first ever Super League title. Loxthorpe Rovers’ defence of their League Cup only made it to Round 2. Then, in the Flavovespia Gold Cup, they entered in Round 2, and were knocked out that round, by Challenge League Millsea. For the fans, despite their finishing position, it just didn’t feel at all like a season to enjoy.

Loxthorpe Rovers were boosted by some great defensive work, none more so from their player of the season, the big keeper Nicholas Dobson. The whole back 4 also impressed, and with none over 30, shows signs of promise for Loxthorpe Rovers. Up front there were signs of promise at times, but at other times there were signs of profligacy, although the youth of their forwards could potentially have played a big part in this.

On paper Loxthorpe Rovers have a very strong squad, and a Top 4 finish must be the expectation going into the next season. However after 2 decades since their last title, the fans are hopeful they can finally get it all together once again, to become the Super League champions.

Marthorpe City FC

After falling away from the top of the table the last two seasons, Marthorpe City returned to the top reaches of Flavovespian football. 2nd place means there’ll always be fans thinking about those games they could’ve picked up points in. The main disappointment was in the cups, in the Flavovespia Gold Cup they went out in Round 2 at home to Apsbrooke, a team they felt they should have beaten. Then in the League Cup, they were one of the few top 2 tier sides to get knocked out by their 3rd tier opponents in Round 1, Havermilly bestowing that dubious honour on Marthorpe City. A season of mixed fortunes for Marthorpe City.

Terence Daley turned out to have a great season for Marthorpe City, leading the league in goals scored with 19 this year. Ronald Maddox and Alex Castle showing great wing-back play also helped the team in their matches this season. The only main concern for Marthorpe City was a growing number of older players, combined with rotation players that failed to step up, a frustration for the coaching staff. Nevertheless, the usual starters were some of the finest in all of Flavovespia.
Any team who comes 2nd will usually claim next year is the year they go one better. Of course Marthorpe City are not an exception. However, analysists are more cautious, and think that their chances of a title win aren’t high, and they’ll be looking at making sure they win in the battle to stay in the Top 4, given they did miss out in 25AU and 26AU

Langmere Green Rovers FC

After Stanmorn got their inaugural title in 26AU, Langmere Green Rovers followed them up by doing the same this year. Always in the Super League, they’ve not ever been a dominant force, but over the last few years they’ve improved and improved, and finally they got the ultimate prize. So maybe they did only make it to Round 2 of the Flavovespia Gold Cup, and lost the final of the League Cup, but nothing can take away from the joy of being the Super League champions. A season that will be remembered for ever and ever by fans of Langmere Green Rovers.

Much of the credit will go to their defensive work. They conceded just 28 goals, less than 1 per game, en route to having the best goal difference in the league. That’s despite being only the 10th highest scoring team in the league. Andrew Bullivant came from relative obscurity to get rated as the league’s best goalkeeper, and thus a call up to the national team. Alexander May and Mervyn Button proved to be vital in the defence of Langmere Green Rovers, assisted by Henrik Jensen ahead of them in the midfield, who rarely gave creative players from other sides time on the ball. Up front despite some struggles among many Langmere Green Rovers players to find the net, Ramon Martin impressed enough to get his side the title and himself another call up to the national team.

Every team who wins the title hopes for a successful title defence, but history has proved that much trickier than it seems, and Waldster in 22AU were the last defending champions to retain their title. Their international club experience and strong squad however, should see them stay at the very least in the Top 4, and at least for a while should be one of Flavovespia’s top sides.

by **Flavovespia** » Sat Feb 08, 2020 9:11 am

Season 28 Preview

Carston Green FC

Overview: One season back in the Challenge League, and they return to the Super League. They did it the hard way though, after 4th in the standings, they went through the playoffs. A comfortable 5-1 aggregate win over Nailwood Mills put them in a playoff final against also-relegated Guildwell Football. It went to penalties, but Carston Green held their nerve to win promotion.

One of the oldest clubs in Flavovespia, and their history outside of the Big 3 is second to none. Never Super League champions in the classic or modern era, however they have had periods in the past where they were considered on par with the very best of the nation. Sadly however the modern era has not been so kind to them. A 3rd place in the inaugural season was followed by a shock relegation. The recovery faltered, and the team even fell into the 3rd tier. That season was testing, and at times the club looked weeks away from complete collapse like Galling Rangers, or relegation into the non-league. However since them the team has recovered, and is now back in the Super League.

They currently have one of the oldest rosters in the Super League. There’s a lot of experience in their ranks, but also many players who are looking for one last season in the Super League before retirement. Devon Hamilton and George Bunting have both been signed to try and bolster the attack, with Michael Morely set to be the playmaker in midfield. Benjamin Potter is signed as a centre back, likely to play alongside young Alexander Evans, with Kevin Norton between the sticks.

Rivals: Not a side with any particular major rival. Westwood Garden City and Hopford were rivals somewhat in the old era of the Western League, but that was never as fierce as other rivalries in the nation. The relative geographic isolation of Carston Green combined with their good record nationally in the past means they never really developed a local or regional rivalry.

Kit: Having worn horizontal stripes for many seasons now, they’ve gone a bit unconventional with a much more plain kit. The green body has a lighter green and white stripe down the sides, extending onto the shorts. The away kit is a palette reversal, which looks nice, albeit with some criticism of it being too similar to a few other sides home kits.

Stadium: Green Park. Opened in 39BU, the 3rd season of the GWNFA Super League. It has undergone extensive renovations since then, so technically only the location is the same as before. 3 sides are connected in a bowl, with the 4th and newest stand completed in the year 0U. A ground with a passionate, yet friendly fanbase. Can be tough for the away fans, especially given the distance of Carston Green from some other clubs in the country. With a capacity of 29503, it’s around average for a Super League side.

Predicted starting XI: (4-4-2) Norton, Cake-Potter-Evans-Payne, Taylor-Din-Morely-Pearce, Hamilton-Bunting

Season prediction: Although much of their previous Super League squad, 16 players in fact, are still at Carston Green, it’s going to be a tricky season. Expectactions from the fans are to avoid relegation, but it’s uncertain from a neutral perspective if this will happen.

Batchingtonwood Rovers FC

Overview: For the very first time in their history, Batchingwood Rovers play in the top flight. A town that has less residents than the capacity of some Super League stadiums, they are without a doubt the smallest and most surprising team at this level, even more so than the likes of South Maishop and Apsbrooke. However a 2nd place last season in the Challenge League got the Sailors into the top flight.

14AU saw them get to the final of the GWFA Cup (now the Flavovespia Gold Cup), but other than that the modern era has seen them largely play in the Challenge League or in the Eastern League. They’ll be the first team in 2 years to make a debut in the top flight, following on from Guildwell Football. Regardless of the outcome of this season, this will hopefully prove to give the side a big boost financially and in terms of stature.

Only 15 of last season’s squad return, with a number of free transfers and low cost signings to try and bring more depth to the squad. Craig Maughan, Vale’s starting keeper from last season, was a club record £4m signing, and is likely to start between the posts over veteran Vinnie Fletcher. Thomas Kerr and Lyndon Brett impressed in the Challenge League for Hopford and Henhaven Islanders respectively, and are brought into the Super League by Batchingtonwood Rovers. Up front it’s 2 club icons, Max Watson and Jaxson Henderson.

Rivals: Boll Lake Mariners, now in the Eastern League, are the fierce rivals of Batchingtonwood Rovers. The Sailors vs Mariners derby, when contested is one of the more well established and exciting derbies in the lower leagues to watch.

Kit: For their first trip to the Super League, they’ve gone with a somewhat retro inspired design. A large white upper section invokes the sailor scarf, with a sharp, angular design. The away kit is a palette swap, but with hooped socks that can be interchanged with the home kit.

Stadium: 3000 temporary seats will be added to meet ground requirements, more than doubling the capacity. The stadium only has 2 main stands, on each sideline, with the 1983 capacity main stand (pictured) having stood for over 80 years now. A ground that wouldn’t look out of place in the lower tiers, however it gets to host 15 Super League games.

Predicted starting XI: (4-4-2) Maughan, Rudd-Kerr-Hughes-Burke, Karim-Wood-Brett-Wells,Watson-Henderson

Season prediction: Everyone loves a good underdog story, and Batchingtonwood Rovers achieved one last season. However, it’s hard to see them finish anywhere other than the relegation zone this season, and are most likely to take the wooden spoon.

Westwood Garden City FC

Overview: Back in the Super League after 1 season, they came up as Challenge League champions, and always looked good for promotion. A team that’s tends to find itself in the relegation battles, they’ve never had a sustained run of high finishes in the Super League. On the flip side, anytime they are relegated, it’s rare to see them outside the promotion battle in the Challenge League. Another season with the newly promoted label, they’ll be looking to avoid a straight relegation back down.

Westwood Garden City are one of the older clubs in the nation, formed in 71BU as Westwood Sports Society. They were founding members of the Inter City Cup and changed their name to Westwood Garden City in 58BU. The name change was somewhat quarrelsome, as some felt the club now only represented Garden City in the region of Westwood, and not all of Westwood. They were also founding members of the Western Association, before also being one of the first clubs in the GWNFA Challenge League in 22BU. They spent the rest of the classic era in that division, one of the teams somewhat hampered by the champions needing a promotion playoff victory to get into the GWNFA Super League.

The return of Michael Davidson after a season at Bavingtor will please the fans. A fair number of signings were made, including 3 from relegated sides, Gavin Whittaker of Hopford, and local boy John Jones who impressed at Westwood FC in the Western League last season.

Rivals: Historically it was Hampridge United, but after they were dissolved, Westwood Garden City never had a true rival. Westwood FC are considered rivals to an extent, with contention over whether or not Westwood Garden City represent the region or just Garden City, but rarely have the teams met before. Carston Green oculd be considered a rival by some, but it’s hardly an established rivalry.

Kit: It’s unsurprisingly an all-white home kit, but they’ve gone with a faded diagonal across the upper body. Certainly it’s a bold and unique design, but one that many of the fans seem to be pleased with. Away from home, and it’s an all-black mirror of their home kit.

Stadium: Westwood Road, with a capacity of 37114, is one of the larger stadiums in Flavovespia, 8th in the nation and 7th in the Super League in terms of capacity. Originally built in 27BU, and still largely the same, with the only difference a 3rd tier added to the ends in 10BU. It fills out for the big matches, and is still near capacity when the smaller teams turn up. Not famous for having an intimidating atmosphere, but still a ground quite well liked both by Westwood Garden City fans and away fans.

Predicted starting XI: (3-4-3) Barnes, Harper-Dent-Harrison, Robertson-Richmond-Davidson-Ness, Michael-Upton-Kidd

Season prediction: They certainly look the strongest of the 3 newly promoted sides to stay up. With a few Super League teams surviving last season by the skin of their teeth, it could very well be more than a one season wonder this time for Westwood Garden City. At best, the lower midtable is their likely finishing position.

Sporting Towerhaite

Overview: Surviving by the barest of margins in the Super League, Sporting Towerhaite will be hoping for a season that’s nowhere near as close to relegation as they were last season. They are one of the yo-yo teams of the modern era, having never really broken the cycle and got a consistent run at the upper echelons of the Super League.

A founding member of the Waldster League, under the name Towerhaite Sports Society. They spent their early years fighting with Team Towerhaite for recognition as the city’s main team. Towerhaite Sports Society joined the GWNFA Super League in 33BU, before changing its name to Sporting Towerhaite in 22BU. Since then, the team has been largely up and down between the top 2 tiers. For historical reasons, the team is always known as Sporting Towerhaite, never just Towerhaite.

Gerald Buckle and Richard Doughty were sold, and will be considerable losses for the team. Alan Owens and Trevor Jones come in as likely starters to replace them. Lawrence Furrer and David Clark will hope to have breakout seasons, with experienced veteran Anthony Miles likely to play the role as a lone striker. Lower down the depth chart, and promising youngster Peter Smith is called up from the youth squad into the 25 man roster.

Rivals: Other than the now defunct Team Towerhaite, the rivalry Sporting Towerhaite is most associated with is the Outer Waldster Derby, between them, Stanmorn, Vale and Galling Rangers (now Galling Rangers 7AU). Only Stanmorn and Sporting Towerhaite are in the Super League though this season. Sporting Towerhaite also tend to want to get one over on Waldster, although it’s a one sided rivalry.

Kit: The beige is a tricky colour to work with, but with some piping along the tops of the sleeves in black and white, Sporting Towerhaite have a smart design for 28AU, with traditional black shorts and socks to go with it. The away kit is all white with a similar piping pattern in black and beige. One of their better kits of recent years.

Stadium: Opened in 40BU, Towerhaite Stadium has a relatively modest 16404 capacity. It’s mostly the same stadium as when it opened, maintaining the single tier, rounded rectangular shape. It’s shape gives it an enclosed feel to it, with the same height all around, but it is one of the stadiums that is showing its age, compared to the others. One of the first in the nation built specifically for all-seater purposes.

Predicted starting XI: (4-3-2-1) Furrer, Atkinson-Price-Jones-Arthur, Clark-Henry-Owens, Massey-Murray, Miles

Season prediction: They’ve pulled off a few lucky escapes in recent seasons. However it feels to many that they need to play better this season, else they will make an unfortunate return to the Challenge League.

Waldster FC

Overview: Waldster FC is the oldest professional football team in the entire nation. One of the most famous teams in the entire nation, the team boasts support not just regionally, but across the entire nation. Based in the capital city of Waldster, they are a symbol of the capital in the eyes of many, for better or for worse. In the modern era they haven’t quite enjoyed the success they had in yesteryear, but their status as a well known team is never in doubt.

Last season was a season to forget. They crashed to 12th place in the Super League, at times genuinely worrying about relegation. Add to that, yet another loss away to a lower league side in the Flavovespia Gold Cup embarrassed them. There is no way that the fans want a repeat of that, and realistically they shouldn’t be having another season like that.

A bit of a clear-out and reshuffle with a new manager means there’ll be some changes to the lineup. It looks like 17 year old Michael Cole, one of the top players coming out of the Waldster youth academy in recent seasons, may very well be a starter, now with the #10 jersey. John Lawler will hope to kick on after he had some struggles last season, and the duo of former Butterfield Rovers players, Michael McGarry and Lancelot Wray could play roles despite their youthful age.

Rivals: The Big 3 of Waldster, Hadford Hill and St Astons City will be an everlasting rivalry, and games between the 3 are always ones that get the nation tuning in. No other rivalry in Flavovespia has been so long lasting, and so present at the top of Flavovespian football. Any of the outer Waldster clubs also see Waldster as a team to beat, alongside quite a lot of fanbases.

Kit: A shadow “W” across the top of the shirt makes for quite a smart kit, even if some think it is a little bit simple. On the flip side, the purists enjoy seeing a bit without an excess of black trim on it. The away kit is more interesting, the normal choice of white or black has been abandoned for a dark green kit, with a double “white to yellow” band across the body. A unique choice, who knows if it’ll be a trend for the club.

Stadium: Hornet’s Nest is the biggest stadium in the nation at a capacity of 75’000. Built in 0U, it’s still a state of the art facility, and has hosted some major international teams, including Eura and Farfadillis. A stadium that all footballing fans across Flavovespia love to visit, and one that is an iconic feature of the Super League.

Predicted starting XI: (4-4-2) Swain, Horne-Stephens-Field-Shepherd, Brooks-Buttery-McGarry-Brewer, Lawler-Cole

Season prediction: Certainly last season’s calamity should not be repeated. Top 8 is the bare minimum of expectations, and the team will want at least a Top 4, even if some see that as a bit of an ambitious target.

Apsbrooke FC

Overview: Apsbrooke is a relatively small town, with quite a rural vibe to it. Nevertheless their football team has enjoyed a recent run in the Super League, with good cup performances to go alongside it. One of those teams that to the older generation feel out of place in the top flight, but are increasingly making an impression on younger generations.

11th in the Super League was 6 places below where they did finish last season, however they had a Flavovespia Gold Cup final appearance. The team made a poor start to the season, but the later stages of the season saw it all start to come together, as they went on a decent run of form and to a cup final.

Apsbrooke have a roster with a fair mix of elder statesmen and young talent. Conor Harrington looks set to stay as a starting keeper, with John Calvert still in the defence. Tony Elvidge will look to have a strong season in midfield and up front Mike Beeton and Timothy Kilgour look set to lead the attack.

Rivals: For Apsbrooke, their traditional rivals are Nailwood Mills and Frostbrook Rovers, in what is known as the “Yellowfields Derby”. However matches between these sides have been seldom played in recent seasons, as all 3 sides seem to be occupying different divisions. Other than that, no real rivalry exists with a Super League side.

Kit: In recognition of the last season at Meadow Hill, Apsbrooke are going with an old school retro style kit. The home kit is all yellow, with an old-school style tie up collar, and a prominent black A on the chest. Other than that, there are no markings on the kit anywhere else. The away kit mimics the classic “pull-over” away kit method, with a faux white top covering the yellow home kit. Permission has been granted for Apsbrooke to register the same set of shorts for home and away matches by the GWFA and other teams.

Stadium: They moved into Meadow Hill in 55BU, but after many years now, Apsbrooke will play their final season at the 9091 capacity stadium. The ground has been modernised as much as possible over the years, but with little room to expand, and rising costs each year to maintain, Apsbrooke have taken the bold decision to move out. Meadow Hill will be missed by many as a throwback to the old-school grounds, with the low ceilings and sharp, angular shapes, and the fans will hope for a final season at Meadow Hill to remember.

Predicted starting XI: (5-3-2) Harrington, Howden-Ross-Calvert-John-Powell, Jennings-Elvidge-McGoldrick, Beeton-Kilgour

Season prediction: A squad that on paper is strong enough to stay up, but not one that can assume they’ll do it easily. They will most likely find themselves once again in that 9th to 12th battle, but could fall either side depending on form or the performances of others. In their final season at Meadow Hill, the fans hope the team can give the stadium a good sign off before it becomes mere memories.

Bavingtor FC

Overview: Aside from their miracle 24AU Super League title, Bavingtor FC have had a career as a midtable side in the Super League for much of the modern era, albeit with some appearances in the top reaches of the league and a few Challenge League appearances. The city of Bavingtor and the region is known for it’s industry, especially in aeronautics, which can be reflected in the identity of the team. Last season they had a 10th place finish, but injuries meant they didn’t quite reach the top half they were hoping for.

Bavingtor FC began playing in 61BU, one of the city/region teams created for the purposes of competing in the Inter City Cup, which had started a few years before. The team a few seasons later joined the United Football League, a league largely comprised of Inter City cup teams who had no major league to play in. Founding members of the GWNFA Challenge League, they were one of the teams who took the opportunity presented by the formation of the GWFA to establish themselves in the Super League.

For Bavingtor, the return of David Meehan in goal will be vital for their chances of success this year. Joel Loader struggled as 2nd choice keeper, and was even dropped for teen Thomas Foley at times. They’ve not made many waves in the transfer market, so will look to established players like Ben Blyth, William Edwards and Roger Hawkes to also help their challenge for the next season.

Rivals: The fiercest rivalry that Bavingtor have is with nearby Binclestead Wood, which has been ongoing since the days of the United Football League. A rivalry that can get pretty heated both on and off the pitch, both have one modern era Super League title, and the teams are fairly well balanced in terms of stature. Butterfield Rovers of the Challenge League are also not well liked by Bavingtor.

Kit: White with black sleeves is a choice Bavingtor have made in the past before, and variants of that design aren’t rare. This time across the body is a “tail” like pattern, with a cut-out B on the edge. It’s quite a clever effect, playing into the theme of the city and the name, and it’s an original concept. Away they’ve gone with a green and white kit, much to the annoyance of the teams who wear green and white. There’s black shorts and socks on the home kit and white for the away kit, which can be used to avoid clashes without ruining either kit.

Stadium: After a somewhat nomadic existence in the first decade or so, Bavingtor moved to Airfield Lane in 44BU. Technically all of the stands have undergone significant changes in their time, the last of which was in 7AU to add a second tier to the stand behind the goal pictured. A capacity of 27471 isn’t one of the largest in the Super League, but the stadium tends to be pretty full. It’s minor drawback is that it is some 8 km away from the centre of Bavingtor itself, a bit of a nuisance for fans, which does affect atmosphere a little.

Predicted starting XI: (5-2-1-2) Meehan, Barnes-Hemingway-Blyth-Judah-Wills, Hurst-Edwards, Sheikh, Hawkes-Paul

Season prediction: Well a Top 8 finish is the ambition, but they will have to work hard at it. With an increasingly stronger top of the table, it’s likely that mid table mediocracy is what Bavingtor will end up with this season.

Binclestead Wood FC

Overview: They’ve spent all but one season of the modern era in the Super League. They have a title and 3 GWFA Cup/Flavovespia Gold Cup wins, but have largely been considered a mid-level Super League side. Their slightly eccentric ownership aside, the club seems to be recovering from the relegation not that long ago, and are building back up to try and stay in the Super League for years to come. 9th last year was fairly respectable, and the fans would be quietly content with that.

They formed in 62BU and began competitive play in 61BU, and were founders of the United Football League. They were also founders of the GWNFA Challenge League, but in 13BU won the promotion playoff to the Super League, where they’d stay until the GWNFA system was shut down in 3BU. A club who exemplified the transition from the old school local clubs, often based on workplaces or social clubs, to city based clubs.

Christopher Ace will be a big loss for Binclestead Wood as he joins St Astons City for £20m. The money was invested though, with Richard Doughty and Peter Collins the 2 main signings. Having impressed last season, Ian Johnson will look to continue to play a key role in defence. The goalkeeper position will be interesting, with only 2 rostered goalkeepers, both 35 or older.

Rivals: Bavingtor, as mentioned previously are the fierce rivals of Binclestead Wood. Both sides are similar in stature, but Binclestead Wood claim to have a more prestigious past, and like to hold it against Bavingtor. A close rivalry geographically, which leads to heated games between the two sides, although a few rivalries are worse. Both sides are also somewhat rivals to Butterfield Rovers, now relegated to the Challenge League.

Kit: 3 thinning white diagonal stripes cross across the body in this bold kit. The kit is a bit of a throwback to the later classic era and some of the crazier designs of that time. It’s been relatively well received by the fans though. The home kit is in the traditional black with white shorts and black socks. The away kit has a red top with black shorts and white socks, with the lower elements intentionally chosen to blend well with both shirts.

Stadium: Brickfield has an official capacity of a round 30’000. Opened in 22BU, for the purposes of the GWNFA Challenge League campaign. Originally a completely open bowl with prominent tall stands at the end, the side stands were extended and covered in 12BU, but other than that the stadium has largely stayed the same.

Predicted starting XI: (4-3-3) Tucker, Pitchford-Harrison-Collins-Johnson, Clarke-Totten-Foster, Turner-Golfin-Doughty.

Season prediction: They should avoid the second season syndrome, and stay in the Super League comfortably. However, it does look like they might fall just short of a Top 8 place, with 9th-12th a likely area in which they’ll be finishing.

Kings Lunsel FC

Overview: One of the founding 8 of the GWNFA Super League, they are one of only 3 teams (Waldster and Loxthorpe Rovers the other 2), to always play in the national top flight. They have 3 league titles in the modern era, and won the last 2 GWFA Cup/Flavovespia Gold Cups. They are a formidable team on their day. 8th last season in the league was a little below expectations, but was at least ultimately a top half finish.

The acrimonious breakup of the Lunselbury region in 56BU, lead to the formation of Kings Lunsel FC, who immediately joined the United Football League in 55BU. Within a decade they were one of the leading teams in the United Football League, and when the 8 team Super League formed, beginning in 41BU, they got an invite and since then never looked back. Outside of the Big 3, probably one of the most famous clubs in Flavovespia.

The big change is in the attack, with the veteran Victor Adeyamo from Marthorpe City and young Morten Christensen from Kings Lunsel coming in. Other than that, Tony Gardner and Jordaan Wolfson with their international experience will be the leaders on the pitch for the Kings Lunsel side this season.

Rivals: Abbots Lunsel FC are their fierce rivals. It’s probably the roughest rivalry in the entire nation. It’s the only rivalry where a match got postponed due to crowd trouble, was played behind closed doors and for several years had a 12pm kick-off time imposed on it. Entertaining to watch on the pitch, but one off the pitch that can descend into trouble. In recent years with the drop off of Abbots Lunsel, it’s not been played as often.

Kit: Unsurprisingly, it’s black and white stripes on the home kit. Thin vertical stripes with all black sleeves are the order of the day here, a standard design that’s not going to cause much controversy, but is unlikely to be that memorable. Black shorts and shorts go with it. They away kit is more interesting, with an unusual colour combination of “ocean turquoise” and “sandy yellow” stripes, supposedly paying homage to the coastal areas of Kings Lunsel according to the description. It’s paired with white shorts and socks, likely an attempt to have a suitable pair of change shorts and socks that fit with the home kit.

Stadium: Kings Bowl was built during 55BU, and has been the only permanent home of Kings Lunsel. There’s been some changes over the years, with the current capacity of 48667, but the open air bowl shape has remained a permanent feature of the stadium, one of the ones considered intimidating for the away fans, and a tough away day for the players. Very much an old-school stadium, which the older fans love.

Predicted starting XI: (4-4-2) Jones, Vaughan-Dixon-Gardner-Shah, Flynn-Wolfson-English-Craigen, Christensen-Adeyemo

Season prediction: A squad that should definitely be able to reach the top half of the table. A Top 4 finish isn’t out of the question, but is probably a bit above their expectations. Another strong cup performance would definitely go down a treat with the fans.

South Maishop FC

Overview: One of the smallest teams to grace the Super League, South Maishop defied expectations last year after another promotion to the top flight, to come 7th in the Super League. The “little team in the mountains” as they’re affectionally nicknamed have often defied expectations in the modern era to consistently crop up in the Super League from time to time, and even stay around for a few seasons at a time.

South Maishop began play in 67BU, with the Gold Cup the only major tournament they were involved in. They were founding members of the Inter City Cup and the United Football League, but found little success in them. Passed over for selection to the GWNFA Challenge League in 22BU, they instead were one of the teams that joined the merged United & Eastern Alliance, where they’d stay until the league ceased playing in 4BU. Placed in the GWFA National Division 1 (now Challenge League) in the start of the modern era, many thought they’d eventually fall into the 3rd tier, but instead they’ve defied critics and have played in the Super League.

Lucky Diamond was the stand out star last time in goal. Many think another good season, and he could well be on the way to a bigger side. A core defensive 4 that’s been maintained for a 3rd season in a row now could also be key for their chances of survival.
Rivals: North Mayshop are their main rivals, the 2 teams facing off in the “North-South derby” or the “Double-M derby”. Nowadays the fortunes of the 2 teams have diverged, so meetings between them are less common. A rivalry with a lot of pride at stake, but largely one that’s quite amicable between two of Flavovespia’s smallest areas.

Kit: A traditional kit with their navy blue and maroon horizontal stripes on the body, with navy blue sleeves this time and a white collar. Conventional, but it is a decent kit design. The traditional white shorts and navy blue and maroon striped socks are paired with it. Away from home is a white shirt, but with a striped sash along the body. Somewhat unique, it’s an interesting twist on what is otherwise quite a generic away kit. The away kit comes with navy blue shorts and white socks, again another kit designed with shorts and socks combinations in mind.

Stadium: Bridge Pass has been the home of South Maishop since 50BU, however the stadium bares little relation to the original in its current form. Most of the capacity is in the single main stand, built in 7AU after the first promotion of South Maishop to the Super League, with the rest of the capacity largely made up of small open-air stands behind the goals, added at the same time. Opposite the main stand lies the 500 seat old stand that was the only part of the stadium that existed in the classic era.

Predicted starting XI: (4-3-3) Diamond, Carr-Bradley-Wildman-Alfred, Hammonds-Ahmad-Taylor, Bell-Gilbert-Butt

Season prediction: Another top half would be a dream, but it’s hard to see it coming. They probably have enough in them to stay up, but will have to battle hard, as newly promoted Westwood Garden City and Carston Green look strong.

Hadford Hill FC

Overview: Another of the Big 3, Hadford Hill are the team of the biggest city in the nation, and even non footballing fans will recognise the team in red wherever they travel to. A team with an iconic identity, and almost always at the forefront of football in Flavovespia. Last season their 6th place wouldn’t seem great by historical standards, but the team do feel as if they’re trending upwards.

Hadford Hill have a very prestigious history. They played the first ever professional match in the nation against Waldster, they were winners of the inaugural Gold Cup, Inter City Cup and won many GWNFA Super League titles. In the modern era, they won 7 of the first 13 Super League titles. However a collapse from poor management and ownership lead to them twice happening to play in the Challenge League. Since then the team has began to recover, but is still not the juggernaut they once were.

Steven Hall will be their most important player, widely considered the best in Flavovespia, and what he brings to the side is hard to measure. Young Anthony Hannigan impressed for recently relegated Croxlich, and Edward Barkes could also play an important role up front, after his transfer from Kings Lunsel.

Rivals: One of the Big 3, so without a doubt their most famous rivalry is with Waldster and St Astons City, having competed against them regularly for over a century now. A rivalry that still interests the neutrals across the nation, and is still a big matter of pride for the sides involved, both in head to head matches, and final league position. Hadford Hill also have the local derby against Marthorpe City. Marthorpe was a part of Hadford Hill for many years, before it split away. The club, Marthorpe City, are still seen by Hadford Hill (and others) as a “plastic club” with little true heritage, a bit cynical in the modern era as they also have 7 Super League titles.

Kit: After last season’s kit with a considerable use of white, this year it has been dialled back. An all red kit, with some white piping, and a patterned panel section for a simple but smart kit. The away kit is all white, the most common colour for Hadford Hill to wear away.

Stadium: Highland Road is the oldest stadium still in continual use in Flavovespia. The second largest in the nation, it has one of the strongest atmospheres of any ground, and is the epitome of the old school style ground. It’s hosted international games, and is truly one of the most famous stadiums in the nation. A stadium that has seen it all in over a century of hosting football.

Predicted starting XI: (4-2-3-1) Shaw, Cannon-Sheth-Hawkins-Noe, Humphries-Holt, Ford-Hannigan-Hall, Barkes

Season prediction: After 6th last year, the team shows promise. One of the greatest examples of a “fallen gaint”, they do finally look like a side that could maybe break back into the Top 4. It won’t be easy however, with how strong the top of the table is looking.

St Astons City FC

Overview: One of the Big 3, and therefore one of the most famous clubs in the nation. One season in the modern era aside, St Astons City have always played in the top-flight, and have many league and cup victories under their belt. They got a 5th place last season, a big improvement as they hope to return to the top level of football in Flavovespia.

St Astons City are also one of the oldest clubs in Flavovespia, although the exact date they could be said to have formed is a matter of debate. Nevertheless, they were founders of the Tri Series, then the Gold Cup, Inter City Cup and the GWNFA Super League. They had their halcyon era in the 29-20BU decade. In the modern era they’ve not quite been as strong as historically, but are still a formidable team.

Christopher Ace was the big summer signing for the Saints, as he looks to slot in to the right wing position. Marc Sharratt will hope to keep up his form from last season. The team typically play an attacking 3-4-3, so a strong performance from the centre backs will be vital.

Rivals: As mentioned before, their big rivals are Hadford Hill and Waldster, having had many matches in the Tri Series, the Super League in both eras, and the latter stages (and sometimes earlier rounds) of cup competitions in the nation. Maybe Hadford Hill and Waldster feels like the fiercest of the matchups in this 3 way rivalry, but there’s no love lost for St Astons City either. Unlike the other 2 sides though, they don’t really have another “local” rival, and fans of other sides tend to prefer them over the other 2 sides in the Big 3.

Kit: An all navy blue kit for St Astons City. The interesting feature is a fade to blue at the top, with the traditional cross element formed in the negative space, a clever concept on a classic shirt feature. Gold cuffs and collar finish off the kit. The away kit is all white, with a negative space white cross on a fade to gold top. An interesting design choice.

Stadium: The 3rd highest capacity stadium in Flavovespia. It’s a single tiered bowl shape with a roof, which creates a strong atmosphere amongst the home fans. It also has good facilities, even if location wise it’s a bit out of the way. It’s also hosted international games and some cup finals over the years, so it has a prestigious history.

Predicted starting XI: (3-4-3) Holmes, Mohammed-Smith-Bicknell, Hussain-Keeley-Calver-Ace, Bayliss-Sharratt-Cooke

Season prediction: They harbour ambitions for the Top 4, a place they see themselves as rightfully belonging in. The depth at the top of the Super League is strong however, and they may find another 5th place to be an adequate finishing position.

Stanmorn FC

Overview: One of the outer Waldster teams, they were inaugural members of the Waldster League before eventually having a brief stint in the United Football League. Despite being seen by some as a strong side, they never made it into the GWNFA Super League from the original 8 to its expansion, and instead were founders the GWNFA Challenge League. They did reach the GWNFA Super League, but didn’t achieve much in the way of success.

In the modern era, Stanmorn began as somewhat of a yo-yo club between the top 2 divisions. However a run of cup success gave them the means to push up the table and establish themselves as a top half team. Eventually in 26AU they became Super League champions for the first time ever. Last season their title defence saw them only come 4th, but nevertheless they got the opportunity to play international club football.

A squad with a fair number of internationals, their success will largely depend on getting James King to dominate the midfield, with Andrew Mason and Scott Coleman up front. Sean McClafferty will continue to play an attacking midfielder role, with Aarif Muhammad, the young talent in goal signed from Croxlich

Rivals: Their main rivals are the Outer Waldster teams whom they competed in the Waldster League with, Galling Rangers (now the phoenix club Galling Rangers 7AU), Vale FC and Sporting Towerhaite. The latter 2 draw more ire from the fans of Stanmorn, due to getting GWNFA Super League spots when Stanmorn didn’t. Stanmorn however have taken a lot of joy from their recent success and their rivals not fighting it out near the top. Also with their rise to the top, a growing rivalry with Waldster and to an extent Loxthorpe Rovers, although it’s a bit one sided.

Kit: Stanmorn are continuing with the lighter blue shade they’ve won the last few seasons now, away from their older dark blue colour. Their home kit is blue with white panels along the top of the sleeves and down the sides of the body of the shirt. White shorts with a blue side stripe and blue socks with white cuffs finish off a tidy kit. The away kit is a straight palette reversal.

Stadium: Stanley Lane was built in 31BU, with the old Wrendle Road ground no longer fit for purpose, with the cost of making it all seater too much and infeasible. Since then the ground has had modifications over the years, including an extension added to both side stands, and a redeveloped stand behind the goal (closest to cameara). At 26475 capacity, it is quite middle of the road for the Super League, but there is still room to expand.

Predicted starting XI: (5-2-1-2) Muhammad, Betts-Appleby-Wright-Stowell-Gandhi, Winward-King, McClafferty, Mason-Coleman

Season prediction: They’ve got a lot of international experience and some good young talent. A Top 4 finish is what they should expect, but it will depend on if the team can get some good consistent form throughout the season. They will be exciting to watch, no doubt about that.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Overview: Originally founded as Loxthorpe FC, Loxthorpe Rovers also have a very long history, being one of the first clubs in Flavovespia to be fully professional. Founders of the Eastern Alliance, they were always one of the top teams in the division, and eventually founded the GWNFA Super League. From there onwards, they are only one of 3 teams to have a continual top flight presence in both eras.

Loxthorpe Rovers have seemingly been near the top of the Super League for years, yet it has been more than 20 years now since their 2 title wins. The last few seasons they’ve gotten close, but just haven’t found that last bit of performance to get the title. In 27AU they were ultimately 3rd, a good finish, but one that definitely left the fans feeling somewhat unsatisfied in the end.

For Loxthorpe, their big figure, literally and metaphorically is 2m tall keeper Nicholas Dobson. If he plays well, and so do the defence with Stephen Moore in it, they could be hard to break down. Neil Ambrose comes into the midfield, and the Nichols brothers could also play a key role.

Rivals: Langmere Green Rovers are the long time rivals of Loxthorpe Rovers, both facing off in the “Green Derby”. Confusingly despite the name given to the rivalry, neither team wears a completely green kit and at times neither wore green. Both teams were fierce competitiors at the top of the Eastern Alliance, and have continued their rivalry in both eras of the Super League. Loxthorpe Rovers claim to be the bigger, more prestigious side, but Langmere Green Rovers claim otherwise.

Kit: They usually wear stripes, but Loxthorpe Rovers are mixing things up this year. A halved shirt sees one half with the traditional white and green stripes, but the other half a solid green colour. A controversial look based on a few old kits that has divided opinion. The home kit has green shorts and socks. The away kit is the same template but in amber and red and white stripes, paying homage to the brief time that was their home colours. That kit has white shorts and socks, which look somewhat odd with the away kit, but were chosen with potential shorts and socks clashes for the home kit in mind.

Stadium: Rovers Arena, the newest stadium in the Super League. Built not many years ago, the facilities in this stadium are second to none, with the fan experience at the forefront of the design of the stadium. With a high capacity and it’s ultramodern facilities, it has also hosted international games and became the 5th stadium added to the pool of hosting venues for cup finals and playoff finals.

Predicted starting XI: (4-4-2) Dobson, Pain-Bowley-Cliff-Moore, Somers-Ambrose-D.Nichols-Amos, S.Nichols-Carr

Season prediction: Of all of the Top 4 last season, they probably look the most likely to not return, based on perceived squad strength. However their determination and resilience can be second to none at times, and don’t ignore the extra motivation to get a title after their rivals managed to do so.

Marthorpe City FC

Overview: A variety of teams existed in the area of Marthorpe for decades, but in 10BU, after Marthorpe City left Hadford Hill to form its own region (although the city and region of Marthorpe are synonymous), Marthorpe City were formed, and added to the GWNFA Challenge League. Many clubs saw that as a cynical ploy by the GWNFA to try and boost its own league attendances, and Marthorpe City were decried as a plastic club. In the modern era they’ve been in the Super League all the time and have 7 titles in all.

Last season Marthorpe City were pushing for a Top 4 place. They went better than that, and were close to an 8th title, but they weren’t able to quite reach that point, instead they were forced to take the silver medal and come 2nd in the Super League. An improvement on their previous season, but they’ll now be looking to go one better, and take their 8th title.

Marthorpe City have retained much of their previous squad, but made 2 big signings, with former Waldster and Flavovespia player Simon Davison and Gerald Buckle of Sporting Towerhaite coming in at big expense. Marthorpe City will need them and their strong defence to push them from runners-up to title winners.

Rivals: Hadford Hill are their main rivals, although it is an example that is historically seen as more one way. Nevertheless Hadford Hill definitely don’t like losing to a team they consider to be breakaway upstarts. Marthorpe City are also one of the most unpopular teams with neutrals, due to their history and perception of being nouveau riche, although younger fans know less of that.

Kit: Marthorpe City have come up with one of the most unique kits ever seen in the Super League. The city outline of their logo has been extrapolated onto the whole body of the kit, to produce a black and gold “city nights” effect. Truly a unique kit that could be fast coming a collectors item. The away kit uses a vaporwave colour palette in the same template, to come up with another unique kit. The only team in the league (Apsbrooke aside), to have agreed dispensation for a second set of shorts for each kit, in the event of a clash.

Stadium: City Arena is the only Super League venue to be 100% undercover for all matches. One of the larger stadiums as well in the nation, which hosts international, cup finals and playoff final matches. The atmosphere can be unusual for away fans, especially getting to grips with the covered roof. However the stadium is an impressive and original stadium, and Marthorpe has embraced it’s club, despite it’s somewhat different origins.

Predicted starting XI: (5-3-2) Burnie, Maddox-James-Holland-Castle-Blythe, Feld-Davison-Buckle, Daley-Peddie

Season prediction: 2nd last year, and it’s hard not to see them come close to the top again this season. On paper they have a strong side, how well their new recruits fit in the midfield will be the big factor in seeing if they can go all the way.

Langmere Green Rovers FC

Overview: Last season they finally achieved the dream of a Super League victory. The team had competed in every season of the modern Super League, but had only recently looked like title contenders. However they managed to put the whole package together to become the champions of the nation. The team in the south east of the nation will look to hopefully start an era at the top of the nation’s footballing hierarchy.

Langmere Green Rovers are one of the nation’s older clubs, and were founders of the Eastern Alliance. Successful in that league, they were somewhat unfortunate to miss the cut for the inaugural 8 team GWNFA Super League. They were a dominant side outside of that league in the next few years, eventually leading them to join. However for the classic era they had limited success in that period of time.

A squad that really came together and brought home the title with good teamwork last year, all elements played their part. Andrew Bullivant starred in goal, and got himself called into the national team. A strong defence and midfield, with national team players Mervyn Button and Henrik Jensen helped them concede few goals. At the top, Ramon Martin was instrumental in finding the net to give Langmere Green Rovers their first title.

Rivals: Loxthorpe Rovers are the fierce rivals of Langmere Green Rovers, and the latter is now enjoy the feeling of having a Super League title and being the reigning champions. A rivalry with a lot of local pride, that dates back to around a century ago and the old Eastern Alliance. One of the more well known derbies now with the rising fortunes of both sides.

Kit: Langmere Green Rovers have also embraced a more retro look, after the relatively unpopular kit of last season. Bold, three tone green diagonal blocks adorn the top of the shirt and bottom of the shorts on an all white kit. A design that is reminiscent of some of the kits in the later classic era, with fans liking the old school touch. The away kit keeps the green blocks but the main kit colour is black.

Stadium: South Road has a modest capacity of only 22268. Originally built in 62BU, 2 of the original stands (closest to camera) survive to this day, albeit now all-seater. The other side stand was built in 40BU and the big tall end stand in 20BU. Quite open to the elements, it has an old-school feel about it, and is for once the home of the national champions.

Predicted starting XI: (3-4-3) Bullivant, Thorp-Rodwell-Button, Millar-Jensen-Ahmed- Callery, Martin-Thomas-Johnson

Season prediction: You can never rule out a title winning squad from repeating the feat again. However, the Super League is a tough league, and Langmere Green Rovers need to turn their win into a lasting legacy, and not end up a one season wonder. Top 4 is certainly possible, but a title win again will be a tough goal to reach.

by **Flavovespia** » Sun Mar 08, 2020 9:35 am

Super League

Matchday 1

Friday 8pm

Langmere Green Rovers FC 1 - 2 Binclestead Wood FC

The Friday Football Fever kickoff began with the tradition of the holders hosting the opening game of the season. However, their title defence didn’t begin well. A cagey first half saw both teams failed to score. The opener came in the 63rd minute, when midfielder Totten found space to carve out an opportunity, and beat Bullivant. Golfin doubled the lead near the end with a well placed header from a cross. Right midfielder Callery gave Langmere Green Rovers the faintest of hopes in injury time, but there wasn’t another opportunity.

Saturday 12:30pm

Apsbrooke FC 1 - 3 Marthorpe City FC

Apsbrooke began their last season at Meadow Hill with a Saturday lunchtime kick-off to Marthorpe City. The hosts took an early lead through their free transfer signing Mike Beeton, starting off as he means to go on. Gerald Buckle, the new signing for Marthorpe after a considerable transfer fee of £17m from Sporting Towerhaite wasn’t to be outdone however, and he got the equaliser with a great curling effort. In the second half, the big £25m transfer from Waldster, Simon Davison showed why he commanded the fee he did, with 2 good shots, one from each foot to beat Harrington, and give Marthorpe City the 3 points.

Saturday 3pm

South Maishop FC 1 - 2 Westwood Garden City FC

Carston Green FC 3 - 0 Waldster FC

Hadford Hill FC 4 - 1 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC

St Astons City FC 2 - 0 Bavingtor FC

In the 3pm kickoffs, the big upset was Carston Green putting 3 past Waldster. The capital side had no nswer to the newly promoted side. Perennial playmaker Michael Morely got the opener and new signing Devon Hamilton began with a double. No such upsets in Hadford Hill, as the hosts showed little mercy to the top flight debutants. Hall got the pick of the goals, with a classic dribble through the defence and deft finish. The other of the old Big 3, St Astons City, got a winning start at home to Bavingtor, thanks to some second half goals from Smith and Sharratt. Finally it was the late show in South Maishop, as Gilbert’s 87th minute equaliser was nullified by Davidson’s immediate response to give the visitors 3 points.

Sunday 12:30pm

Sporting Towerhaite 2 - 1 Stanmorn FC

Sunday Lunchtime saw an outer Waldster derby to kick off the season. Famed midfielder James King of Stanmorn got the visitors the lead, which they’d hold until half time. Derrick Henry got the equaliser from a corner in the 58th minute. Then, with little time left to go before injury time, the veteran of Sporting Towerhaite Anthony Miles got the ball at feet from Nick Massey, and rifled home his shot past Aarif Muhammad. The hosts get a great opening day win against one of their rivals.

Sunday 5:30pm

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1 - 0 Kings Lunsel FC

Last game of the opening Matchday saw two teams with ambitions towards the top, Loxthorpe Rovers and Kings Lunsel play it out. More entertaining than the scoreline suggests, it was the new signing Neil Ambrose, from the edge of the box early in the second half, who got the one and only goal, to give Loxthorpe Rovers a winning start to the season.

Matchday 2

Saturday 12:30pm

Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 2 - 1 St Astons City FC

Batchingtonwood Park hosted its first ever Super League game, televised on Saturday lunchtime. Christopher Ace, the promising signing from Binclestead Wood, put the visitors in the lead, making it 0-1 before half time. However substitute Aston Andrews made a big impact with the equaliser, cutting in from the wing and placing it past John Holmes. Then on the hour mark, local favourite Max Watson got the ball well teed up, and hit his shot firmly into the back of the net. 2-1, and the hosts would hold on for a famous win.

Saturday 3pm

Marthorpe City FC 1 - 1 Binclestead Wood FC

Kings Lunsel FC 1 - 0 Sporting Towerhaite

Westwood Garden City FC 1 - 0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Apsbrooke FC 0 - 3 South Maishop FC

It was the early show for Westwood Garden City. An early free kick saw Clifford Dent get free and score an easy headed goal, just 53 seconds into the game. It’d prove to be the only goal in the game. Marthorpe City and Binclestead Wood also saw a game with 2 goals early on, one apiece, as both teams took away a point from this encounter. Morten Christensen was the difference as Kings Lunsel got a 1-0 win over Sporting Towerhaite in a match where defence seemed to better offence. Finally, Apsbrooke hosted South Maishop, a matchup not historically associated with the top flight. 2 first half goals and a late 3rd meant South Maishop picked up their first points, but left Apsbrooke pointless after 2 home games.

Saturday 5:30pm

Waldster FC 0 - 1 Hadford Hill FC

One of the famous derbies of Flavovespia, Waldster vs Hadford Hill was going to be the highlight fixture of the weekend. A tight and tense game in many parts, the 58th minute saw young Anthony Hannigan make a big name for himself with the Hadford Hill faithful. His volley was the goal that separated the two sides. Hadford Hill had a perfect winning record 2 games in, Waldster unfortunately a complete losing record.

Saturday 8pm

Bavingtor FC 2 - 1 Langmere Green Rovers FC

The Saturday Night match saw Bavingtor host the holders Langmere Green Rovers. The midfied duo of Hurst and Edwards meant Bavingtor got off to a flying start, 2-0 up before 15 minutes had even been played. Langmere would rally and try and recover, and their play in the second half was much improved. However only Millar could get a goal, and Bavingtor did enough to land with the 3 points from this game.

Sunday 3pm

Stanmorn FC 0 - 1 Carston Green FC

Stanmorn hosted this afternoon kickoff with something to prove after their loss to their local rivals in the opening game. They had plenty of chances, not least from Coleman and Mason in the first half, but Norton held firm in goal. Carston Green found their feet in the game as time ticked on, and then in the 73rd minute, Benjamin Potter, signed from Vale in the transfer window, rose highest from the corner to head home. 0-1 it finished, as Carston Green continued an impressive start.

Matchday 3

Friday 8pm

South Maishop FC 1 - 1 Marthorpe City FC

Friday Football Fever visits South Maishop on Matchday 3. John Bell gave the hosts hope that they could pull off a great win against Marthorpe City. However national team striker Terence Daley snuffed out that idea, with his equaliser, a well taken penalty that left Lucky Diamond with very little chance of making a save. 1-1, a fair result on balance, but one neither team would be overly happy with.

Saturday 12:30pm

Binclestead Wood FC 0 - 1 Bavingtor FC

The first of 2 derbies this week saw Binclestead Wood take on Bavingtor. Mark Paul scored what would be the winner in the 16th minute, played through on goal with a good pass, he made no mistake with a fierce but accurate shot that flew just inside the post. A derby with some fierce tackles towards the end, unsurprisingly, with players squaring up to each other, and some lucky not to see red.

Saturday 3pm

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1 - 0 Apsbrooke FC

Carston Green FC 1 - 2 Kings Lunsel FC

Hadford Hill FC 0 - 0 Stanmorn FC

Langmere Green Rovers 3 - 1 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC

An early Gary Carr goal meant Loxthorpe Rovers controlled their home game against Apsbrooke and took all the point. Meanwhile the visitors struggle to search for any sort of form, and 3 games in and they’re looking like contenders for the drop. John Pearce gave Carston Green hope of continuing their perfect start. Yungen Li and Morten Christensen of Kings Lunsel had other ideas, and the visitors came away with 3 points after the latter’s late winner. Langmere Green Rovers took a 3-1 win over their fellow eastern side Batchingtonwood Rovers. The game was noticeable however for Franco Ferretti, playing in non-league, for (at the time) 4th tier Woodbrook last season, scoring his first Super League goal. Finally a scoreless draw between Hadford Hill and Stanmorn did little to inspire the crowd or neturals, not least given how many internationals were in each side.

Sunday 12:30pm

Sporting Towerhaite 0 - 3 Westwood Garden City FC

Sporting Towerhaite hosted Westwood Garden City in the early Sunday kickoff. Again a great early start for the visitors, Tarren Kidd scoring within 2 minutes. David Michael’s cut in from the wing doubled the lead in the 83rd minute, and Michael Upton finished if off completely with a goal on the counter attack in injury time. The visitors are now surprise leaders of the Super League, having just been promoted this past season.

Sunday 3pm

St Astons City FC 0 - 0 Waldster FC

St Astons City hosted Waldster in a nationally famous derby match. Despite the big billing of the game, it wasn’t a classic encounter. Marc Sharratt and John Lawler had the best chances early in the second half, but aside from that, it was a game where the defences and midfielders did more than enough to nullify any attacks. More bad news for the visitors, as they fail to score for 3 games in a row, and fail to beat rivals in 2 consecutive games.

Matchday 4

Friday 8pm

Westwood Garden City FC 1 - 2 Carston Green FC

It was Westwood Garden City, surprise leaders after Matchday 3, hosting another western side Carston Green on Friday Football Fever. The hosts however, couldn’t keep up their impressive start. John Pearce’s right footed shot and Benjamin Potter’s header put Carston Green 0-2 up at half time. Tarren Kidd pulled one back early on in the second half, but Westwood Garden City couldn’t find that equaliser they wanted, and the visitors took 3 points from this game.

Saturday 3pm

Marthorpe City 0 - 1 Bavingtor FC

Stanmorn FC 2 - 2 St Astons City FC

Apsbrooke FC 0 - 0 Sporting Towerhaite

South Maishop FC 3 - 1 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

In Marthorpe, Mark Paul continued his and Bavingtor’s personal run of form, with another goal. A tap-in from a goalmouth scramble, it was the goal that gave the visitors a good victory against a well-fancied side. Andrew Mason’s left-footed effort gave Stanmorn an early lead, but Bayliss and Sharratt gave St Astons the lead for much of the game. In the dying minutes, Collins effort from 10 metres out found the net, and this game finished as an entertaining 2-2. Apsbrooke came from 0-2 down, via the contributions of Beeton and Fletcher to draw 2-2 with Sporting Towerhaite. South Maishop surprised Loxthorpe Rovers with a dominant 3-1 display in the other 3pm kickoff. Gary Carr’s spectacular 26 metre goal would prove to be a mere consolation.

Saturday 8pm

Kings Lunsel FC 2 - 1 Hadford Hill FC

Kings Lunsel would host Hadford Hill in this Saturday Night encounter. Brian Woodcock proved he still had something in him, with his 20th minute goal just inside the box. Victor Adeyemo would double the lead with a well timed and well placed effort in the second half. Mike Merrill was a surprise source for the Hadford Hill goal to set up a nail-biting finale, but the home team held on to win. Kings Lunsel join Bavingtor and Westwood Garden City at the summit with 9 points.

Sunday 12:30pm

Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 0 - 1 Binclestead Wood FC

Batchingtonwood Rovers hosted Binclestead Wood in this Sunday Lunchtime game. Despite a valiant defence from the hosts, Malcolm Golfin broke through to score a late winner, with an accurate 12 metre effort. Batchingtonwood Rovers were very disappointed to come away with nothing from this game.

Sunday 5:30pm

Waldster FC 0 - 0 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Waldster hosted Langmere Green Rovers in this Sunday evening match. Once again however, the capital side played out a scoreless draw in a televised game. Lawler and Dargie had efforts well saved by Bullivant, who earned his wage today. At the other end, Ramon Martin was frustrated to not receive a penalty for a perceived foul by Royston Stephens, even though the video ref ruled it a no penalty.

Matchday 5

Saturday 3pm

Carston Green FC 0 - 0 Apsbrooke FC

Hadford Hill FC 0 - 1 Westwood Garden City FC

St Astons City FC 1 - 0 Kings Lunsel FC

Binclestead Wood FC 1 - 0 Waldster FC

Carston Green and Apsbrooke played out a surprisingly entertaining 0-0 draw in one of the 3pm kickoffs, a result that definitely doesn’t favour the visitors. Hadford Hill were more than matched by Westwood Garden City, and David Michael continued to take the Super League by surprise, his 80th minute shot beat Wayne Shaw to give the visitors another surprise win. Ian Calver’s goal towards the end of the 39th minute proved to be the difference as St Astons City won 1-0 to Kings Lunsel. Waldster continued to fail to find the net, and fell to another defeat, at Binclestead Wood. Doughty got the goal in that game as they remain in the relegation zone.

Saturday 5:30pm

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0 - 2 Marthorpe City FC

2 teams predicted to do well, Loxthorpe Rovers and Marthorpe City would play this evening game. Ronald Peddie got the opener, before a good accurate shot by Terence Daley in the second half gave the visitors the win in this game. Loxthorpe Rovers continue to be a surprise struggler at this stage of the season, in the bottom half.

Saturday 8pm

Langmere Green Rovers FC 1 - 2 Stanmorn FC

Langmere Green Rovers hosted Stanmorn in this exciting Saturday Night game between the 27AU and 26AU champions. Henrik Jensen got the opener in the 58th minute from a set-piece routine at a free kick. Langmere Green Rovers were hoping to come away with 3 points, but Paul Rodwell was unfortunate to concede an equaliser in his own net. Then with little time left, a cleared ball fell to Sean McClafferty19 metres out. He hit the shot first time, and it flew into the top right corner, to give Stanmorn a brilliant winning goal.

Sunday 3pm

Bavingtor FC 2 - 0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC

Bavingtor hosted Batchingtonwood Rovers on Sunday afternoon. There was no upset in this match. Inexperience lead to Archie Black turning a cross into his own net. Near the end of the first half, Roger Hawkes was worked into space, where he couldn’t miss, giving the hosts a 2 goal lead they would comfortably hold on to in the second half.

Sunday 5:30pm

Sporting Towerhaite 2 - 2 South Maishop FC

Sporting Towerhaite hosted South Maishop in this encounter. Robert Gilbert took only 20 seconds to score, a quick attack from the kickoff and he got his shot away. Then, from the second kick-off, the host blundered, leaving John Bell free to simply place the ball past Furrer to make it 0-2 in 2 minutes. Keith Murray wasn’t about to give up with a fight, and his double meant this game finished at 2-2. Disappointing for the visitors to not win, but they can’t be disappointed with their current position.

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Round 1

Friday 8pm

(EA2) Narrock Community Sports 1–1 (EL) FC North Waldster (1–3 AET)

Friday Football Fever travelled to Narrock Wood, and it was Narrock Community Sports of the Eastern Alliance D2, the fifth tier, hosting league opposition in the form of FC North Waldster. The hosts 64th minute goal meant for 14 minutes, they had dreams of a 2nd round appearance. However, a scramble lead to FC North Waldster equalising in the 78th minute. In extra time, fatigue set in, and the pros got 2 goals early in extra time to finish off the tie.

Saturday 12:30pm

(NA2) Kingsley Green FC 0–0 (WL) Langpool Capton FC (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.)
(EA1) Brimton FC 1–5 (EL) Johns Park FC

2 Saturday lunchtime games were played in Round 1 of the Flavovespia Gold Cup. Kingsley Green took Langpool Capton all the way to penalties, but sadly just couldn’t quite get over the line, as the experienced visitors took home the ticket to Round 2. Johns Park made light work of Brimton, going 0-4 up by half time, and the former Super League side were firmly in control.

Saturday 3pm

(EL) Leabury FC 2–1 (EA1) Lunselbury FC
(WL) Claychester FC 3–3 (WA1) Hadford Industrial United (5–3 AET)
(WL) Havermilly FC 2–1 (EA1) FC North Orbital
(WL) Redthwaite Rangers FC 2–0 (WA1) Walbert Street FC
(EL) Woodbrook FC 4–1 (WA1) Flawthrope FC
(WL) South Hadford United 1–2 (WL) Vitarias Legion
(WA1) Hadford Aerodrome 3–1 (SA2) Kings FC
(EL) Alstone FC 1–0 (EA1) Lukes Wood FC
(EL) Frostbrook Rovers FC 1–4 (WL) Caffchin FC
(WA1) Woodlee Farm 2–1 (EA1) Calhead Rangers FC
(WA1) Hadford Dacorum FC 1–1 (EA1) Galling Rangers 7AU (3–2 AET)
(SA2) Waldster Waterfields 1–0 (WA1) Old Saints FC
(EL) Boll Lake Mariners FC 3–0 (WL) Melcave Meerkats
(EL) Gann FC 2–1 (EA1) Sutsyridge FC
(EA1) Dame Roundabout FC 1–1 (WL) Sandneston Rovers FC (1–2 AET)
(WL) Saltearth FC 3–0 (SA2) Hillsight Bridge FC
(WA1) Pykrot End FC 2–1 (WA1) St Astons Striders FC
(WL) Panford FC 3–1 (WL) Maltsterbrack FC
(WA1) Ellerstone United FC 1–0 (EL) Radstye Rangers FC
(WA1) Ellerstone Aerodrome 1–0 (EL) Highhadford FC
(WL) Whittlesbury Wanderers 4–0 (EA1) Henhaven Palace FC
(WA1) Magic Roundabout FC 4–4 (NA2) Barmount FC (4–4 AET) (4–3 pen.)
(EL) Oxwich FC 1–0 (WL) Napsmouth FC
(EL) Captonbridge Rangers FC 1–1 (WA1) Westwood FC (1–2 AET)

Most of the games followed the form book, with the higher division sides winning to advance to Round 2 where the big boys enter. There were a few upsets however, as Ellerstone United, fellow local side Ellerstone Aerodrome and Westwood all beat opposition from the league to progress to Round 2. Waldster Waterfields upset Old Saints to become the only Alliance D2 side left in the cup.

Saturday 5:30pm

(WL) Old Marthorpe FC 4–0 (EA2) Rumlington Lakes FC

Old Marthorpe played hosts to Rumlington Lakes in this encounter, with 2 divisions separating the sides. A penalty separated the two sides at half-time. However, the professional experience of the hosts played dividends in the second half, as a trio of goals gave them a comfortable win.

Saturday 8pm

(EL) Buchraston Heath FC 0–0 (EL) Locksmith-on-Carron FC (0–0 AET) (4–3 pen.)

An Eastern League matchup was played out on Saturday night, with Buchraston Heath hosting Locksmith-on-Carron, 2 sides who have both previously played in the second tier. A cagey, tight affair was scoreless and went all the way to penalty. Deadlocked after 4 penalties, it was a good save by the home keeper that decided the outcome.

Sunday 12:30pm

(WL) Boleland Wood Town FC 0–1 (EL) Oxwich Wood FC

2 third tier sides faced off in the Sunday lunchtime kick-off. The game was fairly open, and wastefuls shooting upfront was the limiting factor on the scoreboard. It was a goal late in the first half, from a left footed shot drilled low into the net, that put Oxwich Wood into Round 2.

Sunday 3pm

(WA1) Floombury United FC 1–0 (EAL) Sutsyridge Lane FC

The first ever side outside of the League or Alliance played in Round 1 proper in this match. Sutsyridge Lane of the Eastern Association League were the team to break that barrier. The draw wasn’t that kind of them, as they had to travel coast to coast for their match against Floombury United. The visitors impressed given their amateur status, but ultimately a good top corner shot in the second half put Floombury United into Round 2.

Sunday 5:30pm

(EL) Henhaven Beachside 2–2 (EA1) Camber Place FC (3–3 AET) (3–4 pen.)

2 sides in the south east of the nation faced off in this match up. The visitors were 0-2 up with 15 minutes to go, but a late comeback by the higher ranked side put the game into extra time. The Eastern League side thought they were through with a 117th minute goal, but 2 minutes later a frantic attack from a corner sent it to penalties. There, the away team held their nerve, to take an impressive victory and an upset to higher ranked opponents.

Note: Tiers in Flavovespia as of 28AU:

(SL) = Super League - Tier 1
(CL) = Challenge League - Tier 2
(WL/EL) = Western League/Eastern League - Tier 3
---------League to Non-League/Alliance cut-off---------------
(WA1/EA1) = Western Alliance D1/Eastern Alliance D1 - Tier 4
(NA2/WA2/SA2/EA2) = Northern Alliance D2/Western Alliance D2/Southern Alliance D2/Eastern Alliance D2 - Tier 5
--------Alliance to Lower regionals leagues cutoff------------
Tier 6 and below

by **Flavovespia** » Sun Mar 22, 2020 12:11 pm

Super League

Matchday 6

Friday 8pm

Apsbrooke FC 0 – 0 Hadford Hill FC

Apsbrooke had their turn in the Friday Football Fever spotlight. They had gotten off to a poor start, and were hoping to at least get something out of this game. A valiant performance by the Apsbrooke defence and keeper Conor Harrington meant they kept a clean sheet against a strong attacking side. Hadford Hill will be disappointed to have not come away with a win here, as they were the better side for most of the game.

Saturday 12:30pm

South Maishop FC 1 – 1 Carston Green FC

South Maishop hosted this lunchtime game against Carston Green. Robert Gilbert’s left footed strike put the hosts in front not long before half time. However the high flying visitors found an equaliser through Raymond Wilson. Both teams pushed for the winner, but had to make do with a point each.

Saturday 3pm

Marthorpe City FC 1 – 0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC
Stanmorn FC 0 – 1 Binclestead Wood FC
Kings Lunsel FC 2 – 2 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0 – 1 Sporting Towerhaite

Marthorpe City ensured the form book was obeyed in their home match, Terence Daley with a poacher’s effort just after the hour mark. Stanmorn continued to struggle, with Christopher Stowell putting the ball in his own net in the only goal of this game. Morten Christensen continued his impressive form at his new club, his double helped make sure Langmere Green Rovers couldn’t come away from Kings Lunsel with all the points. Finally Keith Murray’s low driven shot gave Sporting Towerhaite a somewhat surprise win as they visited Rovers Arena.

Saturday 8pm

Westwood Garden City FC 1 – 0 St Astons City FC

In a close match on Saturday night, it was Leslie Heads who made the difference for the surprise team at the top so far. His header in the first half beat John Holmes, and the defence of the hosts held firm the rest of the game. 1-0 it would finish, as the newly promoted side continue to defy expectations so far.

Sunday 12:30pm

Waldster FC 2 – 0 Bavingtor FC

Waldster came into this game goalless after 5 games and in the bottom 3. Just before half time, Joe Dargie got goalside of the defence, and was able to beat David Meehan, to finally end the scoring duck for the hosts. In the second half, rising star Michael Cole’s well timed half volley got the better of the Flavovespia keeper, to double the lead, and from there Waldster never looked back, as they finally picked up a win.

Matchday 7

Saturday 3pm

St Astons City FC 1 – 0 Apsbrooke FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 3 – 0 Westwood Garden City FC
Bavingtor FC 0 – 2 Stanmorn FC
Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 2 – 2 Waldster FC

The pressure continues to build on Apsbrooke, as Marc Sharratt’s goal from inside the box means that the visitors are still without a win and falling away from safety. Surprise leaders Westwood Garden City had a reality check at holders Langmere Green Rovers. A Ramon Martin double and Johnson goal gave them a comfortable victory. In Bavingtor, Collins early goal gave the visitors the lead, and in the dying seconds, King hit the ball from the halfway line into the empty net, after Meehan went up for a corner. Batchingtonwood Rovers were 2-0 up with just 20 minutes to go against Waldster, but a late equaliser by Joe Dargie dashed the hopes and dreams of a famous victory for the hosts.

Saturday 5:30pm

Hadford Hill FC 4 – 1 South Maishop FC

Quickfire goals by Barkes and Hall in the first half gave the hosts a comfortable lead at the break. From there on in, it seemed like they were almost always in control. Barkes got his second, and Fraser the final goal of the game. Only a careless back pass allowed South Maishop to score with their one and only shot on target.

Saturday 8pm

Sporting Towerhaite 2 – 3 Marthorpe City FC

A memorable match was played out this Saturday night. Ronald Peddie’s well taken effort in the first half looked to be the difference before half time. However Anthony Miles let fly with an edge of the box shot that was right in the top corner. Keith Murray with a penalty then put the hosts ahead, before Robert Clayton hit an equaliser shortly after. Then, as injury time commenced, Julian Simon reached Feld’s cross first, and did enough to turn it just inside the post, giving Marthorpe City all 3 points.

Sunday 3pm

Carston Green FC 0–0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

A classic game this was not. Neither side seemed to be able to get any good rhythm into their game, and when they did have shots, were wasteful up front. The defences did their part, but all in all this game was not exciting at all, an affair that seemed almost as long as the coast to coast trip for the visiting fans to the game.

Sunday 5:30pm

Binclestead Wood FC 0–1 Kings Lunsel FC

Victor Adeyemo was the one to get the winner in this game. A good through ball from Jordaan Wolfson played him in behind the defence, and he did enough with his shot to drive the ball into the net. Binclestead Wood attacked hard in the second half, but Robert Jones and the defence of Kings Lunsel stayed firm, and came away with 3 points.

Matchday 8

Friday 8pm

Stanmorn FC 5 – 0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC

Stanmorn hosted Friday Football Fever against Batchingtonwood Rovers. The hosts however showed absolutely no mercy as they showed the gulf in class between two sides. A Mason double and a goal by McClafferty put them 3-0 up by half time. Then, Stanmorn continued on with pressure. McClafferty’s long range effort made it 4-0 in the 66th minute. Finally, in the 79th minute, McClafferty got a hat-trick, and Stanmorn took a dominant 5 goal win.

Saturday 12:30pm

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 3 – 3 Hadford Hill FC

One of the matches of the season so far was played out on lunchtime TV. Donald Fraser had put the visitors 0-1 up wth a low shot in the first half, and with 20 minutes to go, that was the goal that separates the two sides. However Gary Carr got the equaliser from a header from a cross in the 73rd minute. In Hadford Hill’s next attack, their lead was immediately restored, with Barkes hitting home from Hall’s well placed through ball. Hall would double the lead with a great shot from distance. Loxthorpe Rovers weren’t giving up yet. Sylvain Mathieu scrambled home the second for the home team in the 80th minute. Then, from an injury time corner, David Bowley rose highest to head home and give the home team the equaliser.

Saturday 3pm

Marthorpe City FC 2 – 2 Waldster FC
Kings Lunsel FC 0 – 0 Bavingtor FC
South Maishop FC 1 – 1 St Astons City FC
Sporting Towerhaite 1 – 0 Carston Green FC

John Lawler and Brian Buttery put Waldster 0-2 up in the first half at Marthorpe City. They were cruising, but Terence Daley’s speculative shot fond it’s way across the line in the 83rd minute. From there, the momentum had swung, and just as injury time was to begin, Feld got the equaliser for the hosts. Kings Lunsel and Bavingtor both had good defensive records before this game, and it wasn’t a huge surprise when the game wound up a scoreless draw. Marc Sharratt continued to impress with another goal for St Astons City, but Jason Hammonds provided the late equaliser for South Maishop. Nick Massey’s well taken right footed shot was all Sporting Towerhaite needed to beat Carston Green.

Saturday 8pm

Apsbrooke FC 0 – 1 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Apsbrooke’s struggles continued onwards. Adrian Jones got a goal in the first half for Langmere Green Rovers, and that’s all it took to win the game. The hosts never looked likely to get back into it, and some were surprised the visitors only got the one goal.

Sunday 5:30pm

Westwood Garden City FC 2 – 1 Binclestead Wood FC

League leaders Westwood Garden City hosted Binclestead Wood on this Sunday evening. Michael Davidson got the early goal to put the leaders in front. 15 minutes later, and a good volley by Patrick Turner equalised the game. Near the end of the first half, Michael Upton got goalside of the defence, rounded the keeper, and scored what would be the eventual winner. The second half saw opportunities, but no goals in the end.

Manager change

Ezra Badger – Apsbrooke FC -> Sacked

Ezra Badger had been one of the iconic managers of Apsbrooke history, leading them into the Super League for another stint, and getting some good league positions and a cup final appearance. However after the torrid start to the season, the Apsbrooke board see no choice but to dismiss him and look for a replacement. Russell Jones, reserve team manager, takes over as interim.

Matchday 9

Friday 8pm

Hadford Hill FC 4 – 0 Sporting Towerhaite

Hadford Hill had their turn on Friday Football Fever this Matchday. It’d be hard to match the one sidedness of the previous match. Hadford Hill however went close with their dominant win. An early goal for Edward Barkes from close range but the hosts in to the lead, and from there they never looked back. Barkes would get another, and a double by Hannigan meant that Hadford Hill won in style.

Saturday 3pm

Carston Green FC 1 – 1 Marthorpe City FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 0 – 1 South Maishop FC
Bavingtor FC 1 – 0 Westwood Garden City FC
Waldster FC 2 – 0 Stanmorn FC

2 goals in quick succession by George Bunting and Julian Simon meant that Carston Green and Marthorpe City played out a 1-1 draw, the visitors missing the chance to go top. Langmere Green Rover’s struggles to defend their title continued, this time they fell to South Maishop. John Bell got the only goal in that game for the visitors. Westwood Gsrden City suffered a defeat on the road in Bavingtor. A late shot by Roger Hawkes from 14 yards was enough to give Bavingtor the win, as they rise up the table. Finally Waldster at least got their 2nd win of the season against Stanmorn. John Lawler and Joe Dargie both scoring from efforts close to goal.

Saturday 5:30pm

Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 0 – 0 Kings Lunsel FC

After their huge defeat last week, Batchingtonwood Rovers recovered to hold Kings Lunsel to a scoreless draw. A game that saw plenty of opportunities for the visitors and a few for the hosts, but ultimately nobody was able to get a goal.

Sunday 12:30pm

St Astons City 1 – 0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

St Astons City hosted Loxthorpe Rovers on this Sunday lunchtime. Trevor Nell put the home team up just before half time with a driven shot just inside the near post, beyond Dobson. From there, the hosts held firm in the second half, to win the game. For the visitors, troubling times as they fall into the relegation zone.

Sunday 3pm

Binclestead Wood FC 4 – 2 Apsbrooke FC

New (interim) manager, but same old problems for Apsbrooke. They managed to go 0-2 up within 15 minutes, thanks to a shot by Graham Fletcher, and a headed goal from a corner by veteran defender John Calvert. However, Binclestead Wood hit back with 2 quick goals to equalise, and got the lead before half time. Another goal in the second half sealed the deal for them.

Matchday 10

Friday 8pm

Kings Lunsel FC 2 – 0 Waldster FC

Kings Lunsel got their turn on Friday Football Fever. The hosts won this game comfortably with a 17th minute effort from Kieron Player, and a counter attacking goal from Victor Adeyemo in the 44th minute. The second half saw Kings Lunsel in control, and were arguably unlucky not to score more goals, in a game where the visitors looked out of sorts.

Saturday 12:30pm

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 3 – 2 Langmere Green Rovers FC

With both teams struggling compared to preseason expectations, this was always going to be a good watch. Gary Carr got the first 2 goals of the game, both left footed efforts that found the net to give Loxthorpe Rovers a 2 goal lead. Paul Rodwell and Ramon Martin however pulled it back level, with their goals. In the dying minutes, Stephen Nichols got the ball on the edge of the box, turned, and drilled home a powerful shot. 3-2 it would finish, a much needed win for Loxthorpe Rovers

Saturday 3pm

Westwood Garden City FC 0 – 1 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC
Apsbrooke FC 0 – 0 Bavingtor FC
South Maishop FC 1 – 0 Binclestead Wood FC
Carston Green FC 0 – 2 Hadford Hill FC

Westwood Garden City suffered a surprise loss to Batchingtonwood Rovers, thanks to the goal of the visitors veteran Max Watson. Meanwhile Apsbrooke continue to struggle, a goalless draw leaves them without a win all season so far, and staying up is looking like a tougher ask every Matchday. Robert Gilbert got a late winner for South Maishop, as they got the better of Binclestead Wood. A double by Anthony Hannigan meant that Hadford Hill continue their good run of form, and dreams of a Super League title grow each Matchday.

Sunday 3pm

Sporting Towerhaite 2 – 1 St Astons City FC

Sporting Towerhaite pulled off a victory in this game, with all the goals coming in the second half. Anthony Miles was the one to open the scoring with a close range effort that he couldn’t really miss. Brian Bayliss however equalised, with a deftly executed header from a cross from Christopher Ace. Time was running out, but Nick Massey was able to get a clean look at goal, and hammered home his shot to give the hosts the win.

Sunday 5:30pm

Marthorpe City FC 1 – 0 Stanmorn FC

With speculation about the next national team manager growing, it’s not hard to believe Richard Crawford may have been somewhat unfocused for this match. Ronald Peddie’s 19th minute effort inside the box was all it took for Marthorpe City to come away with the 3 points and to move top of the Super League. Stanmorn were unlucky to come away with nothing, and the speculation around the national team and a few injuries didn’t help matters.

Manager changes

Andrew Lowe – Waldster FC -> Sacked

Only 10 games in the Super League for Andrew Lowe at Waldster, but having left South Maishop to take up this job, he was dismissed. The 2-0 vs Stanmorn could have been a turning point, but the loss to Kings Lunsel meant the board of Waldster felt no choice but to take swift action. Speculation is rife on who could make the move, although it must be said no current managers of teams can leave at this point to take over the role. Reserve manager Keith Johnson will take charge of first team affairs in the meantime.

Andrew Lowe – Unemployed -> Apsbrooke FC

Only a few days later, and before their Flavovespia Gold Cup match, and Lowe finds himself a new team. Apsbrooke have taken a gamble on Lowe, and hope his experience at South Maishop, a team somewhat similar in size and stature to Apsbrooke could make a different as they try and stay up.

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Round 2

Friday 8pm

(WA1) Woodlee Farm 0–1 (SL) Apsbrooke FC

Woodlee Farm hosted Apsbrooke, the first test for Andrew Lowe at his new club. A somewhat rotated squad for the visitors did enough to get them over the line against the valiant effort of their non-league opponents, themselves overperforming compared to historical expectations.

Saturday 12:30pm

(SA2) Waldster Waterfields 0–1 (CL) North Mayshop FC

The last of the fifth tier sides left, Waldster Waterfields hosted North Mayshop with a few hundred temporary seats added to Waterfields Way. The hosts held firm in the first half, but a goal from an early cross and header in the 53rd minute ended their dreams, and North Mayshop advance on.

Saturday 3pm

(SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–1 (CL) Cartswood FC
(WL) Sandneston Rovers FC 0–1 (CL) Abbots Lunsel FC
(SL) Stanmorn FC 3–0 (EL) Boll Lake Mariners FC
(WL) Panford FC 0–1 (WL) Redthwaite Rangers FC
(CL) Vale FC 0–0 (WL) Old Marthorpe FC (0–1 AET)
(WL) Caffchin FC 1–0 (WL) Whittlesbury Wanderers
(EL) Leabury FC 2–1 (EL) FC North Waldster
(WL) Havermilly FC 2–0 (EL) Johns Park FC
(CL) Butterfield Rovers FC 2–3 (SL) South Maishop FC
(WL) Saltearth FC 0–1 (EL) Gann FC
(CL) Millsea FC 3–2 (WA1) Hadford Dacorum FC
(EL) Buchraston Heath FC 1–1 (WA1) Ellerstone Aerodrome (3–1 AET)
(EL) Alstone FC 2–1 (CL) Rumlington Rovers FC
(WA1) Pykrot End FC 0–3 (CL) Guildwell Football
(SL) Loxthorpe Rovers FC 2–0 (WL) Vitarias Legion
(WL) Langpool Capton FC 4–0 (WA1) Hadford Aerodrome
(CL) Capton Club 4–4 (CL) Buchraston FC (4–4 AET) (1–3 pen.)
(EL) Woodbrook FC 3–1 (WA1) Floombury United FC
(WL) Claychester FC 2–2 (WA1) Westwood FC (2–2 AET) (3–4 pen.)
(SL) Binclestead Wood FC 2–3 (SL) Marthorpe City FC
(CL) Slaton FC 1–4 (CL) Croxlich FC
(CL) Henhaven Islanders FC 0–1 (SL) Batchingtonwood Rovers FC
(SL) Bavingtor FC 2–1 (SL) Westwood Garden City FC
(CL) Narrock Wood United FC 2–0 (EL) Oxwich Wood FC

Many of the 3pm kickoffs went as the form book predicted. A few upsets did happen however, Old Marthorpe knocked out recently relegated Vale of the Challenge League. Alstone eliminated Rumlington Rovers, one division above the hosts. Westwood also made sure there’d be some non-league representation in Round 3, travelling to Claychester and winning on penalties. 2 sides on the East Coast Capton Club and Buchraston played out an entertaining 8 goal game that went all the way to penalties, Buchraston winning them in the end.

Saturday 5:30pm

(SL) Waldster FC 1–0 (WA1) Magic Roundabout FC

Super League strugglers Waldster hosted the Magic Roundabout of the 4th tier but in good form. Many neutrals were hoping for an upset, but Joe Dargie’s 27th minute shot on target to score was the goal that would seal it. Magic Roundabout showed some good ability at times, but ultimately weren’t able to match the hosts.

Saturday 8pm

(SL) Sporting Towerhaite 2–0 (EA1) Camber Place FC

Another 1st vs 4th tier match up this time, with Sporting Towerhaite hosting Camber Place. Goals either side of the half for the home team gave them a Round 3 spot, and they looked fairly comfortable in this game.

Sunday 12:30pm

(SL) Carston Green FC 4–1 (SL) Kings Lunsel FC

Holders Kings Lunsel, looking for a 3rd Flavovespia Gold Cup in a row, crashed out at the first hurdle, against a Carston Green side who did almost everything right. After just 30 minutes, it was 3-0 to the home side, whose dominance in attack was astonishing. They controlled the second half, going 4-0 up in the 73rd minute, and even a late consolation goal didn’t dampen the mood in Carston Green.

Sunday 3pm

(WA1) Ellerstone United FC 1–1 (CL) Hopford FC (2–1 AET)
(SL) St Astons City FC 3–1 (EL) Oxwich FC

Ellerstone United were able to take their Challenge League opponents Hopford to extra time, and then in the 111th minute managed to win with a penalty kick, putting a second non-league side in Round 3. St Astons City’s early lead was cut out by Oxwich equalising in the 44th minute with their first attack. However the visitors couldn’t do much with the momentum, and St Astons City got 2 in the second half to go through.

Sunday 5:30pm

(CL) Nailwood Mills FC 1–2 (SL) Hadford Hill FC

Hadford Hill got 2 first half goals in this match, to set themselves up for what they thought would be a comfortable match. However a great long range curling shot in the 83rd minute for the home time, meant a nervy finale for the visitors. They held on however, and continue on to the next round.

Manager Changes

Richard Crawford – Stanmorn FC -> Flavovespia

After the Flavovespia Gold Cup was finished, the speculation on the role of Flavovespia manager finished. Richard Crawford of Stanmorn had agreed to take up the role, leaving the club to manage. Stanmorn fans were somewhat saddened to see him go, but accepted his decision to move onto a more ambitious stage.

Michael Anderson – Stanmorn FC Reserves -> Stanmorn FC

A day later, and Michael Anderson, the reserves manager at Stanmorn, was appointed as his successor, with a contract for 28AU and 29AU. The club had valued his work in the reserve team, and felt confident enough to straight away give him the permanent manager role, in a bid to maintain stability and order.

by **Flavovespia** » Tue Mar 31, 2020 12:52 pm

Super League

Matchday 11

Friday 8pm

St Astons City FC 4 – 0 Carston Green FC

St Astons City hosted Carston Green on Friday Football Fever, a battle between 2 sides in the west of the country. Marc Sharratt’s 2 first half goals set up St Astons City well, and Carston Green looked unable to match their opponents. Victor Cooke and Brian Bayliss both got goals in the second half from close range after the defence was beaten, to finish off a fine game for the home team.

Saturday 12:30pm

Waldster FC 2 – 0 Westwood Garden City FC

Keith Johnson had his first Super League game to manoeuvre as the interim manager at least for now of Waldster. 0-0 at half time, but the home team came out firing on all cylinders. Joe Dargie’s low curling shot got the home team the lead, and then young Lancelot Wray doubled the lead. A good result for Waldster as they try and claw back their season.

Saturday 3pm

Langmere Green Rovers FC 1 – 0 Sporting Towerhaite
Binclestead Wood FC 2 – 4 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 1 – 3 Apsbrooke FC
Stanmorn 2 – 3 Kings Lunsel FC

Langmere Green Rovers got an early goal courtesy of Christopher Johnson, enough to give them the win over Sporting Towerhaite. 3 goals in 16 minutes helped Loxthorpe Rovers to a 2-4 victory in Binclestead Wood. An unlikely hat-trick hero, defender Timothy Kilgour was what helped Apsbrooke finally get a win in the Super League, a good start for Andrew Lowe at his new club. A competitive game in Stanmorn saw the visitors Kings Lunsel take the lead, the hosts then come back to lead themselves, only for Kings Lunsel to then also come back to win.

Saturday 8pm

Bavingtor FC 3 – 2 South Maishop FC

An exciting game on this Saturday night in Bavingtor. An early goal from close to goal by Mark Paul put the hosts ahead. Paul got another goal early in the second half, but John Bell quickly pulled one back for South Maishop. Robert Gilbert’s headed effort meant a grandstand finale was setup and Roger Hawkes delivered the goods with his injury time winner.

Sunday 12:30pm

Hadford Hill FC 1 – 0 Marthorpe City FC

The stakes were higher than usual in this local derby, as a win would put either side top of the Super League. Steven Hall’s great dribble and pull back gave Edward Barkes the opportunity to open the scoring in the 54th minute, which he duly did. Hadford Hill then held on in a close and tense second half, with lots of tough tackles, to win and go top of the Super League.

Matchday 12

Saturday 3pm

Marthorpe City FC 1 – 2 Kings Lunsel FC
Westwood Garden City FC 0 – 1 Stanmorn FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1 – 0 Bavingtor FC
Sporting Towerhaite 2 – 0 Binclestead Wood FC

Victor Adeyemo and Kenneth Pile got the goals needed for Kings Lunsel to beat Marthorpe City, the hosts now falling away from the top of the Super League. A controversial penalty late on in Westwood Garden City gave Stanmorn the 3 points. A somewhat less controversial penalty decision made the difference in Loxthorpe Rovers as they got a 1-0 win against Bavingtor. Finally a 2 goal win for Sporting Towerhaite means they quietly continue on in midtable, at least for now moving away from pre-season relegation fears.

Saturday 5:30pm

Apsbrooke FC 3 – 1 Waldster FC

Andrew Lowe, now managing Apsbrooke, faced off against the side he started the season managing, Waldster. John Lawler’s well taken goal in the 20th minute meant the visitors were 0-1 up at half time. However, Apsbrooke rallied around, and a trio of goals gave them the victory, a second in a row, and for Andrew Lowe, a game he would enjoy winning.

Sunday 12:30pm

South Maishop FC 0 – 2 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC

The battle of the two smallest Super League sides, as South Maishop hosted Batchingtonwood Rovers. Max Watson continued his impressive season in the Super League with a double in this game to take the points for the visitors. Batchingtonwood Rovers, whilst still in the relegation zone, are surprising many with some of their performances.

Sunday 3pm

Carston Green FC 2 – 1 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Adrian Jones put Langmere Green Rovers up in the 35 minute, and they were leading much of this much. With just 5 minutes to go however, Roger Hunt’s right footed shot was the equaliser the hosts were looking for. Then, in the last minute of injury time, a corner played in took a deflection, and Hunt got his foot to it to turn it past Bullivant and over the line to the jubilation of the home team.

Sunday 5:30pm

Hadford Hill FC 0 – 0 St Astons City FC

Hadford Hill came into this traditional derby at the top of the table before the Matchday’s set of games began. However St Astons City were resolute in defence, and were able to nullify a potent Hadford Hill attack. Christopher Ace’s 30 metre shot that hit the crossbar late on almost gave the visitors the 3 points, but in the end, it was a goalless draw.

Manager Change

Nick Cole – Unemployed -> Waldster FC

Whether or not the timing was deliberate to upstage the derby match between their 2 rivals, but on Sunday night, Waldster announced that Nick Cole, their former manager who took them to a domestic treble, and the first manager of Flavovespia, would return to the club as the new manager. There was much excitement through the nation, not just in Waldster at this news.

Matchday 13

Saturday 12:30pm

Binclestead Wood FC 3 – 1 Carston Green FC

A win for Binclestead Wood in this Saturday lunchtime encounter. Although Robert Hunt quickly nullified the opener by Malcolm Golfin, Richard Doughty made sure the hosts lead 2-1 at half time. A second for Golfin very early in the second half gave the home team all 3 points in this matchup.

Saturday 3pm

St Astons City FC 0 – 2 Marthorpe City FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 1 – 0 Hadford Hill FC
Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 4 – 0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Waldster FC 2 – 0 South Maishop FC

Marthorpe City won at St Astons City, Michael Marsden putting them up from a corner, and late on Terence Daley scoring from a counter attack. Hadford Hill’s hopes of a title took a dent when Christopher Johnson and Langmere Green Rovers beat them. There were farcical scenes from the away side as Batchingtonwood Rovers faced Loxthorpe Rovers. Aston Andrews scored with the hosts first shot on target towards the end. A few minutes later, and as he chased a loose ball, Nicholas Dobson charged into him. A brawl broke out, with Andrews lying concussed, and Dobson and Ernest Cliff both saw red for the visitors with no subs left. With David Nichols in goal, and a 2 man advantage, the home team scored 3 more to get a famous, or infamous in some eyes, win. In Waldster, John Lawler and Brian Buttery ensured a happy return to the home team dugout for Nick Cole.

Saturday 5:30pm

Bavingtor FC 0 – 0 Sporting Towerhaite

Sadly for the TV viewers of this game, there were no goals to witness. Despite Sporting Towerhaite’s surprisingly strong attack this season, David Meehan was in good form to stop them at every opportunity. For the hosts their attacks were wasteful and wayward.

Sunday 3pm

Kings Lunsel FC 0 – 0 Westwood Garden City FC

Both of these teams came into the match somewhat overperforming early expectactions, and It was no surprise that it finished a draw. Christensen, Adeyemo and Michael all came close at points in the game, but there was nobody able to find a clear cut opportunity to get a winner.

Sunday 5:30pm

Stanmorn FC 0 – 0 Apsbrooke FC

Both these sides had already made a managerial change this season. However, in the end it was a defensive dominant display from both sides, and no goals were scored, for the third televised game in a row, much to the frustration of the casual viewer.

Matchday 14

Friday 8pm

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0 – 0 Waldster FC

Loxthorpe Rovers went into this game missing some key players after the debacle at Batchingtonwood. Meanwhile Waldster and Nick Cole hoped to maintain their improved form. This Friday Football Fever match was not one that turned into a classic. Neither side could create a clear cut change, and Joe Dargie’s effort off the post in the 34th minute was the closest anyone came. A point each for 2 teams who really needed 3.

Saturday 3pm

Sporting Towerhaite 3 – 0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC
Carston Green FC 1 – 0 Bavingtor FC
Hadford Hill FC 0 – 1 Binclestead Wood FC
St Astons City FC 2 – 1 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Peter Smith and a second half double from Keith Murray fired Sporting Towerhaite to a comfortable victory over Batchingtonwood Rovers. Devon Hamilton’s edge of the box strike made the difference as Carston Green overcame Bavingtor. Hadford Hill’s title hopes took another blow at the hands of Malcolm Golfin, with his 13th minute effort. Just 45 seconds separated Victor Cooke and Christopher Johnson’s first half goals, but a late winner by Christopher Ace gave St Astons City all 3 points.

Saturday 5:30pm

Marthorpe City FC 1 – 0 Westwood Garden City FC

Terence Daley was the man of the match as Marthorpe City got their Super League title bid back on track. He was always trouble for the defence, and got the winner in the second half, reaching the end of a Feld cross to turn the ball home. A result that certainly doesn’t flatter the hosts who played very well.

Saturday 8pm

South Maishop FC 1 – 2 Stanmorn FC

A close game but heartbreak on Saturday Night for South Maishop, as Andrew Mason got through the defence and easily beat Lucky Diamond in the final minute of stoppage time. Stanmorn under Michael Anderson needed a change in fortune, and that could be it. On the other side, South Maishop now slide towards the drop in a tough time for their fans.

Sunday 12:30pm

Apsbrooke FC 0 – 2 Kings Lunsel FC

It was bottom vs top in this lunchtime game. However Morten Christensen ensured there would be no upset, with 2 solid if not spectacular goals, 1 in each half, to give the visitors the 3 points they need to make their dreams of a title ever more real. For Apsbrooke, every game makes relegation look closer and closer.

Matchday 15

Friday 8pm

Binclestead Wood FC 1 – 3 St Astons City FC

Binclestead Wood hosted Friday Football Fever, but the night was remembered for Marc Sharratt and his hat trick. His dominant display left the hosts reeling, and Robert Clarke’s consolation goal didn’t do much to lift spirits.

Saturday 3pm

Waldster FC 1 – 0 Sporting Towerhaite
Stanmorn FC 3 – 1 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Kings Lunsel FC 2 – 0 South Maishop FC
Westwood Garden City FC 3 – 1 Apsbrooke FC

John Lawler helped Waldster continue their goodrun of form, and begin to distance themselves from any relegation fears, at least for now. King, McClaffery and Mason meant than Carr’s goal in the early exchanges in Stanmorn was for nothing as the hosts took 3 points. Kings Lunsel continued to show their title credentials, with Wolfson scoring from a free kick, and Adeyemo getting a late counter attacking effort. Finally Westwood Garden City also go a similar late breakaway goal, as they piled more misery on Apsbrooke.

Saturday 5:30pm

Langmere Green Rovers FC 1 – 2 Marthorpe City FC

The hosts continue to struggle to mount any sort of title defence and slide further down the table. Despite Martin scoring in the 3rd minute, a Ronald Peddie double ensured that all 3 points were taken back to Marthorpe City this year.

Sunday 12:30pm

Bavingtor FC 0 – 0 Hadford Hill FC

2 teams with strong defensive records faced off in this matchup. Unsurprisingly, chances were few and far between, and when they did arrive, they weren’t taken well. 0-0 it finished, in a match of few highlights.

Sunday 5:30pm

Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 0 – 2 Carston Green FC

The hosts were unable to keep pace with their visitors. Raymond Wilson’s early first half goal, and Devon Hamilton’s late second half goal were enough to give Carston Green 3 points to keep them in a solid midtable position. The hosts meanwhile, sit in the relegation zone.

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Round 3

Friday 8pm

(WA1) Westwood FC 0–2 (CL) Narrock Wood United FC

One of 2 non-league sides left, Westwood hosted Narrock Wood United of the Challenge League. However there was no upset for the home fans or the visitors Goals in the 23rd and 40th minute from balls whipped in were the difference as the second tier side enter the final 16.

Saturday 12:30pm

(WL) Old Marthorpe FC 3–4 (SL) Carston Green FC

A cracker of a game in Marthorpe, as Old Marthorpe of the Western League hosted Carston Green. Carston Green got the opener, and despite an equaliser by the hosts just 3 minutes later, were 1-3 up at half time and with 70 minutes played. However the hosts weren’t done, and a 71st and 78th minute equaliser, from the spot and a free kick respectively tied it up. Extra time loomed, but with 2 minutes of normal time left, the hosts turned the ball in at close range. A tough loss for Old Marthorpe who played well, but the Super League side just had that extra bit of quality.

Saturday 3pm

(SL) South Maishop FC 1–0 (SL) Sporting Towerhaite
(SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC 1–0 (CL) Croxlich FC
(SL) St Astons City FC 4–0 (SL) Batchingtonwood Rovers FC
(CL) Millsea FC 0–0 (EL) Gann FC (0–1 AET)
(SL) Marthorpe City FC 2–1 (SL) Stanmorn FC
(SL) Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0–1 (EL) Alstone FC
(SL) Apsbrooke FC 2–0 (WL) Havermilly FC
(CL) Abbots Lunsel FC 4–2 (WL) Langpool Capton FC

Alstone provided the shock of the round, as they travelled to Loxthorpe, and eliminated Loxthorpe Rovers with a 0-1 victory. Gannalso provided an upset, winning away at Millsea, one division above them. All other inter division games went to form, and St Astons City and Marthorpe City got wins over their Super League opposition.

Saturday 5:30pm

(SL) Bavingtor FC 3–2 (WA1) Ellerstone United FC

Bavingtor played host to the only other non-league side left in the Flavovespia Gold Cup, Ellerstone United. 2 goals within 20 minutes put Bavingtor in a commanding position at half-time. However in the 54th minute, Ellerstone United got one goal back, against the run of play. It was nervy for a while, until the 84th minute when the two goal lead was restored. Ellerstone United scored from a corner in injury time, but couldn’t get another attack going.

Saturday 8pm

(SL) Waldster FC 0–0 (EL) Woodbrook FC (2–0 AET)

A match between two teams in Waldster itself, one more well known than the other though. For Waldster however, their attacks in the 90 minutes came to nothing, and although their goal was never really threatened, they couldn’t find a route through the Woodbrook defence. Sadly for the visitors, goals in the 94th and 102nd minutes of extra-time meant they were eliminated, despite a valiant performance.

Sunday 12:30pm

(SL) Hadford Hill FC 5–1 (WL) Caffchin FC

Hadford Hill hosted Caffchin, a side midtable in the Western League. However, there was to be no upset in this match, as the home team were dominant. 3 goals in the first half gave them a big lead at the break. Despite Caffchin’s goal in the 61st minute, another 2 for the hosts meant that they cruised into Round 4.

Sunday 3pm

(EL) Leabury FC 0–5 (CL) Guildwell Football
(WL) Redthwaite Rangers FC 1–1 (CL) North Mayshop FC (1–1 AET) (6–7 pen.)

2 thrird tier sides hosted second tier sides in these matches. For Leabury, bottom of the Eastern League, there was nothing to cheer in this match as the Challenge League leaders ran rampant. 0-1 at half time, the hosts seem to just collapse in the second half. Redthwaite Rangers on the other hand, looked equal to North Mayshop, and took the game to penalties and sudden death. Sadly for the hosts, they were the ones knocked out.

Sunday 5:30pm

(CL) Buchraston FC 1–0 (EL) Buchraston Heath FC

The Buchraston derby was played out in Round 3, as Buchraston played Buchraston Heath. The former are traditionally seen as the more well known side of the city, but the latter have found relative success in the modern era. Although Buchraston were in poor league form, they still showed enough about them to get a win in this local match, and move on to Round 4.

Manager change

Kian Hayley: Loxthorpe Rovers -> Retired

Kian Hayley was sacked by Loxthorpe Rovers due to their poor league form and the cup defeat against Alstone. Having already considered plans to retire at the end of the season, Kian announced that he would now be retired immediately, and not consider any further manager jobs. A long serving manager across a few clubs, his managerial career comes to a close, in sadly less than glorious fashion. Assistant manager Michael Hammond takes over as the interim manager.

by **Flavovespia** » Wed Apr 01, 2020 1:13 pm

Super League

Matchday 16

Saturday 12:30pm

Stanmorn FC 0–1 Sporting Towerhaite

In the OuterWaldster derby, Sporting Towerhaite did the double over Stanmorn. Early in the second half, Anthony Miles got a good sight of goal, and his low drilled effort made it in past Aarif Muhammad. The only goal of the game, as Sporting Towerhaite claim local glory, and quietly creep up the table into a decent position.

Saturday 3pm

Marthorpe City FC 0–1 Apsbrooke FC
Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 0–1 Hadford Hill FC
Bavingtor FC 3–3 St Astons City FC
Binclestead Wood FC 0–0 Langmere Green Rovers FC

A key match at both ends of the table sees Apsbrooke take a surprise win at Marthorpe City, tanks to Mike Beeton’s goal. Anthony Hannigan gets the job done for Hadford Hill against Batchingtonwood Rovers, as they look to keep their hopes of a title going. A plethora of late goals in the Bavingtor vs St Astons City match saw the visitors look poised to complete a great comeback due to a Mar Sharratt double, only for Mark Paul to grab the equaliser in injury time. Finally Langmere Green Rovers poor form continues as they get a scoreless draw at Binclestead Wood.

Saturday 5:30pm

Kings Lunsel FC 2–1 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Loxthorpe Rovers are looking for new management, but there was no improvement as they travelled to the leaders Kings Lunsel. Robert Dixon and Morten Christensen got the second half goals to give the home team a comfortable lead. Stephen Nichols ensured a nervy finish, but Kings Lunsel held on for 3 points.

Sunday 12:30pm

Westwood Garden City FC 2–3 South Maishop FC

Clifford Dent’s close range header put Westwood Garden City 1-0 up after 17 minutes. However a Bell and Hammond quickfire double gave the visitors the lead. In the second half, Gilbert extended it for the away side, and although Michael Upton got one back for Westwood Garden City, they couldn’t stop South Maishop picking up a key win.

Sunday 3pm

Waldster FC 1–1 Carston Green FC

Waldster’s revival of form looked set to continue, when Joseph Ryan put the home team up 1-0 with his left footed curling effort. With less than 5 minute to go however, Raymond Wilson found space in a crowded defence to equalise. A point each for both sides, as they occupy the close midfield battle at this stage.

Matchday 17

Saturday 12:30pm

St Astons City FC 3–0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC

A repeat of a recent cup game, but a result that was familiar to both sets of fans. Mar Sharratt and Christopher Ace scored a good goal each to put the home team up 2-0 by half time. They controlled much of the game, and Ian Calver finished off the victory in the 81st minute.

Saturday 3pm

Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–3 Bavingtor FC
Carston Green FC 1–1 Stanmorn FC
Sporting Towerhaite 1–3 Kings Lunsel FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–0 Westwood Garden City FC

Yet more misery for the incumbent title holders Langmere Green Rovers as they manage to drop points from a winning position to lose 2-3 to Bavingtor. Scott Coleman finally scored after his recovery from a knee injury, although Raymond Wilson ensured each side would take just the 1 point. Morten Christensen’s double set Kings Lunsel up nicely against Sporting Towerhaite. Anthony Miles gave the hosts hope, only for Alan Price to clumsily put the ball in his own net. Gary Carr put Loxthorpe Rovers back on track at least, a 1-0 win against Westwood Garden City, who seem to finally be struggling with the pressure of being a newly promoted side.

Saturday 8pm

Binclestead Wood FC 1–2 Marthorpe City FC

Binclestead Wood hosted Marthorpe City in this Saturday Night encounter. Unfortunately for them, despite Robert Clarke getting the opener from a set-piece after 54 minutes, Marthorpe City staged a comeback to take the 3 points. Feld and Peddie were the goalscorers for the visitors as they attempt to keep up a title challenge.

Sunday 3pm

South Maishop FC 1–0 Apsbrooke FC

Philip Taylor’s early goal for South Maishop, taken from just outside the box was the difference in this potential relegation matchup. The 3 points for South Maishop pushes them closer to the crowded midfield, whilst Apsbrooke struggle on to try and escape the relegation zone.

Sunday 5:30pm

Hadford Hill FC 1–3 Waldster FC

Hadford Hill’s hopes of a title were dented a big blow by bitter rivals Waldster in this derby. Edward Barkes got the early goal for Hadford Hill, but only a few minutes later, Chester Brooks headed in an equaliser. Then, not long before half time, a close range goal by Joe Dargie and a long range goal by John Lawler made it 1-3 at half time. Hadford Hill couldn’t then break down the Waldster defence, who took a victory they’ll savour, not least as they fly up the table to 6th.

Manager change

Robbie Redfield: Langmere Green Rovers -> Unemployed

Sadly for Robbie Redfield, the collapse of form after their title win of last season means the Langmere Green Rovers board see no option but to sack him. The board thanked him for the success he brought to the club, but feel recent performances make it impossible for him to stay on. Alan Young, Under 18 manager, has been the surprise choice as interim manager, having only retired from football a few years ago.

Matchday 18

Friday 8pm

Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 1–5 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Batchingtonwood Rovers hosted Friday Football Fever, but sadly for a second time playing in this timeslot, they conceded 5. Johnson’s double and Martin’s penalty meant that despite Max Watson scoring on the volley, it was 1-3 at half time. Langmere continued to show the talent they had really failed to do so far this season, with Thomas and Jensen adding to the rout. A good start for Langmere Green Rovers under new management.

Saturday 12:30pm

Bavingtor FC 1–0 Binclestead Wood FC

In the Bavingtor-Binclestead Wood derby, it was Bavingtor who once again got a single goal win, the second this season. The goalscorer to the surprise of many was Danny Conetta, a rotation defender, who made the run from a corner to head the ball home. A player with a relatively uneventful career at Bavingtor, he’s now put a memorable mark on his time at the club.

Saturday 3pm

Marthorpe City FC 1–1 South Maishop FC
Westwood Garden City FC 1–1 Sporting Towerhaite
Kings Lunsel FC 2–0 Carston Green FC
Stanmorn FC 4–0 Hadford Hill FC

Marthorpe City needed a late Feld goal to salvage a point against South Maishop, a result that does little to help the home team in their title bid. 2 second half goals split equally ensure Westwood Garden City and Sporting Towerhaite share the points in their encounter. A quickfire Victor Adeyemo double means that Kings Lunsel continue on the path to the Super League title. In Stanmorn, it took just 12 minutes for Andrew Mason to get a hat-trick and continue Hadford Hill’s drop in form. Matthew Hanley would finish off the rout in the second half.

Saturday 5:30pm

Waldster FC 1–0 St Astons City FC

Waldster faced off in good form in this derby match with St Astons City. It was Brian Buttery’s great 26 metre shot that got the 3 points for Waldster, a result based on their performance they deserved. The capital team have been in great form since the return of Nick Cole to the dugout, and have seemingly turned their season around.

Sunday 5:30pm

Apsbrooke FC 2–1 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

A battle towards the bottom between a side some thought could be in that situation, and another few though would be. Mike Beeton and Tony Elvidge however delivered with the goals to put the hosts 2-0 at half time. Loxthorpe Rovers would try and rally, and although Gary Carr got one back, there were no more goals as the never-relegated side look in danger of suffering that fate.

Matchday 19

Saturday 3pm

Bavingtor FC 1–4 Marthorpe City FC
Binclestead Wood FC 2–0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 1–0 Waldster FC
Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0–0 South Maishop FC

Marthorpe City returned to winning ways with a dominant victory away at Bavingtor. Feld’s mazy dribble and shot opened the scoring, before Peddie doubled the lead with a powerful shot. Simon got on the scoresheet, and although Blyth got a goal for the hosts, Feld finished off the game with his second. Binclestead Wood got a comfortable win over relegation favourites Batchingtonwood Rovers, Turner and Foster delivering. Langmere Green Rovers’ revival continued, as they beat the in-form Waldster in a close encounter. Loxthorpe Rovers could only get a scoreless draw against South Maishop, and both of those terms are still in the relegation battle.

Saturday 5:30pm

St Astons City FC 1–2 Stanmorn FC

An exciting game in St Astons for TV audiences. Scott Coleman’s well taken effort gave the visitors the lead, but Ian Calver hit back almost immediately. Then, in injury time, a well taken free kick forced a fine save out of Holmes. However McClafferty got the rebound to win it for the visitors, to the disappointment of the home crowd.

Saturday 8pm

Carston Green FC 1–0 Westwood Garden City FC

A matchup of 2 sides in the west on Saturday Night. A game that was short of action for large parts of the game. 84 minutes in however, and a mix-up at the back gave George Bunting a clear shot on goal with nobody to defend against. He simply tapped it in, to give the hosts the lead, and the eventual victory.

Sunday 3pm

Hadford Hill FC 0–1 Kings Lunsel FC

Defender Tony Gardner was the star for Kings Lunsel, scoring from a corner and helping to lead a resolute defence in this match in Hadford Hill. The visitors weren’t’ always comfortable, but they did what they need to do to win, and take another step towards the dream of the title. Hadford Hill meanwhile, are left wondering where their form has gone.

Sunday 5:30pm

Sporting Towerhaite 2–0 Apsbrooke FC

Sporting Towerhaite have had a quietly successful season so far by their standards, and they kept it up in this match. 2 simple but well taken goals by Murray and Massey meant that they got a victory over the struggling Apsbrooke. The home team hope to continue to consolidate a very solid position in the table, the visitors meanwhile are worrying evermore about the prospect of relegation.

Matchday 20

Friday 8pm

Waldster FC 3–1 Binclestead Wood FC

Friday Football Fever travelled to the capital as Waldster took on Binclestead Wood. The opener came from Stephen Shepherd, after his cross beat everyone, clipped the inside of the post, and bounced over the line. Joe Dargie doubled the lead but Richard Doughty quickly pulled one back. Michael Cole however finished off the win, scoring for the team now managed by his father.

Saturday 12:30pm

South Maishop FC 1–3 Sporting Towerhaite

Sporting Towerhaite continued their good season with this win against relegation threatened South Maishop. Anthony Miles got in early to open up the scoring, and for a long period the game remained 0-1. Robert Gilbert equalised from a right footed shot 15 metres out, before Anthony Miles got the lead again, this time with a header. David Clark finished off the job with a goal on the break in injury time. Sporting Towerhaite are now charging towards the Top 4, and a place in international club football.

Saturday 3pm

Apsbrooke FC 1–0 Carston Green FC
Westwood Garden City FC 0–3 Hadford Hill FC
Kings Lunsel FC 0–0 St Astons City FC
Stanmorn FC 0–3 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Apsbrooke restored some hope to their fans, thanks to Mike Beeton hitting home a good goal against Carston Green to take the 3 points. Humphries, Hall and Hannigan hit early for Hadford Hill, in their good win over Westwood Garden City. Kings Lunsel were held to a scoreless draw by a stubborn St Astons City defence, a result somewhat unhelpful to the title ambitions of the home side. Thomas, Woloszyn and Johnson got the goals to ensure the Langmere Green Rovers upturn continued at Stanmorn.

Saturday 8pm

Marthorpe City FC 1–0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

With Kings Lunsel dropping points, Marthorpe City were keen to make up ground in the title race. Terence Daley got a brace in the 24th minute, and against a beleaguered Loxthorpe Rovers, that was enough to take the 3 points. The title race is continuing to hot up, meanwhile Loxthorpe Rovers and their fans are realising just how serious the threat of relegation can be.

Sunday 5:30pm

Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 0–0 Bavingtor FC

Not a game that’s ever going to make the list for good contests. For Batchingtonwood Rovers however, a point against Bavingtor is to be celebrated. The visitors had the bulk of possession and goal scoring chances, but couldn’t convert. Max Watson squandered a good chance towards the end for the home side, but he can’t be entirely blamed for the side not getting the win.

Manager change

Loxthorpe Rovers

Michael Hammond’s stint as interim manager ends, and instead the reserves manager Tony Peterson comes in instead to try and finish off the season without Loxthorpe Rovers in the dreaded bottom 3.

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Round 4

Friday 8pm

(EL) Alstone FC 0–2 (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC

Alstone hosted Langmere Green Rovers, rivals of the team Alstone knocked out in the previous round. The hosts couldn’t get a second win over Super League opposition, as Langmere Green Rovers took a relatively comfortable victory to progress to the quarter finals.

Saturday 12:30pm

(SL) Bavingtor FC 3–0 (CL) Abbots Lunsel FC

A struggling Abbots Lunsel came up against Bavingtor of the Super League. For the hosts, they played out a game that showed the gulf in quality between the two sides. 3-0 at half time, and they could’ve scored more in the second half if their shooting was a bit more accurate.

Saturday 5:30pm

(SL) Hadford Hill FC 0–2 (SL) Waldster FC

The match everyone was excited for when the draw was made. Hadford Hill were itching for revenge after a recent league defeat against their rivals Waldster. It wasn’t to be, and a goal close to half time from a corner and then in the 63rd minute from close range gave Waldster a win at their rivals, and a trip to the quarter finals.

Saturday 8pm

(CL) Buchraston FC 0–0 (CL) Narrock Wood United FC (0–1 AET)

Buchraston and Narrock Wood United played out an all Challenge League Round 4 match. A close game saw no goals in normal time, so extra time ensured as the evening ticked on. Narrock Wood United however, got the goal from a free kick routine 5 minutes from the end, to avoid penalties and to move on.

Sunday 12:30pm

(SL) South Maishop FC 4–1 (SL) Apsbrooke FC

2 of the smaller sides in the Super League faced off. South Maishop however looked the much better of the sides, with 2 goals within the first 20 minutes. Apsbrooke got one back before half time, but South Maishop comfortably played out the second half, with a gaol early in the half and another late on.

Sunday 3pm

(CL) North Mayshop FC 0–2 (SL) Carston Green FC
(CL) Guildwell Football 1–2 (EL) Gann FC

North Mayshop’s match against Carston Green was closer than the scoreline suggests. However 2 goals within 6 minutes in the second half undid the hard work of the hosts, and the Super League side march on. An upset occurred however in Guildwell. Despite the hosts leading, Gann equalised in the 71st minute with a curling effort just outside the box. Then they hit Guildwell on the counter in the 88th minute, and the third tier side make it into the final 8.

Sunday 5:30pm

(SL) Marthorpe City FC 1–0 (SL) St Astons City FC

2 relatively big names faced off in this match. A close game for many periods, Marthorpe City were the ones however who had more spells of good play. The 72nd minute saw them take advantage, with a good goal from 16 metres out. It was enough to take them through to the next round, and for the final 8 teams left, the dream continues.

by **Flavovespia** » Thu Apr 02, 2020 1:14 pm

Super League

Matchday 21

Friday 8pm

Carston Green FC 1–1 South Maishop FC

Carston Green hosted Friday Football Fever in a matchup with South Maishop. It was the two Roberts who got the goals. Gilbert put South Maishop ahead with a deftly executed chip over the keeper. Hunt got the equaliser after South Maishop were unable to contain the pressure Carston Green were putting on them.

Saturday 3pm

Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 1–0 Marthorpe City FC
Bavingtor FC 3–0 Waldster FC
Hadford Hill FC 0–2 Apsbrooke FC
Sporting Towerhaite 0–3 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

A shock for Marthorpe City in their bid for the title, as they fell to a 1-0 loss at Batchingtonwood Rovers. Jonathan Holland was unfortunate to deflect the ball into his own net from a corner, and the hosts got a win against all odds. Mark Paul’s 2 goals set Bavingtor up for a win against Waldster, and Joseph Ryan’s own goal confirmed it in the second half. More frustration for Hadford Hill, as Apsbrooke rolled up and left with 3 points. Mike Beeton’s early effort gave the visitors the lead, before John Calvert headed in from a free kick routine. Tony Peterson made a great start as Loxthorpe Rovers interim manager, within 2 minutes Sylvain Mathieu and Neil Ambrose put them up 0-2 at Sporting Towerhaite, and 10 minutes later David Nichols got the 3rd.

Sunday 12:30pm

Langmere Green Rovers FC 0–0 Kings Lunsel FC

A resurgent Langmere Green Rovers came up against Kings Lunsel, fighting for the title and seeing their closest challengers lose unexpectedly. The game was always going to be a tense, nervy affair, and ultimately neither side could find the all important breakthrough to win.

Sunday 3pm

Binclestead Wood FC 0–0 Stanmorn FC

Binclestead Wood’s form was sliding and Stanmorn’s was improving. The game was hardly one to remember, with limited opportunities created, and even fewer taken with any sort of conviction. 0-0 it was, the 1 point not really doing much for either side.

Sunday 5:30pm

St Astons City FC 2–3 Westwood Garden City FC

Michael Upton and David Michael’s goals from the centre of the box gave the visitors a 2 goal lead early on. Marc Sharratt did all he could to get St Astons City something out of this game, but a mazy dribble by David Michael and a good finish into the corner would give the visitors 3 points. The early leaders were sliding towards relegation, however this win arrested that slide.

Matchday 22

Friday 8pm

Marthorpe City FC 3–2 Sporting Towerhaite

Friday Football Fever went inside to Marthorpe City. Derrick Henry’s early goal made the home crowd nervous, but Daley’s equaliser and a double from Marsden made it 3-1 at the break. David Clark got one goal back, but Sporting Towerhaite couldn’t do enough to take anything from this game.

Saturday 12:30pm

Westwood Garden City FC 0–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC

The surprise package early in the season continued to struggle, with a loss to Langmere Green Rovers. Christopher Johnson popped up early and found space in the box to guide a shot home, with relative ease. Westwood Garden City couldn’t recover, and now look like they’ll be in the relegation battle.

Saturday 3pm

South Maishop FC 1–0 Hadford Hill FC
Apsbrooke FC 0–3 St Astons City FC
Kings Lunsel FC 0–0 Binclestead Wood FC
Stanmorn FC 2–0 Bavingtor FC

Hadford Hill once again suffer a loss to a small side, at the hands of South Maishop this time. Mahtab Ahmad’s shot inside the D just outside the box enough to separate the two sides. Brian Bayliss and a duo of goals from Trevor Bayliss meant that St Astons City took an easy victory over the struggling Apsbrooke. Kings Lunsel dropped ground on Marthorpe City, as a second consecutive 0-0 befell them and Binclestead Wood. The dynamic duo of Scott Coleman and Andrew Mason provided the goals for Stanmorn, in their 2-0 win over Bavingtor, both those sides in the hotly contested battle for the international club qualification spots.

Saturday 5:30pm

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 2–1 Carston Green FC

Loxthorpe Rovers got a key win as they try and avoid dropping out of the top flight for the first ever time, including the classic era as well. Gary Carr’s clinical penalty in the 16th minute gave them the lead, although at half time it was 1-1, with William Somers block on a shot turning it into his own net. Stephen Nichols rebound shot got the goal to take the lead in the second half, and the crucial 3 points for the hosts.

Saturday 8pm

Waldster FC 1–0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC

Waldster hosted Batchingtonwood Rovers, the latter still hoping for an unlikely escape from the drop. Waldster controlled much of the game, but looked unconvincing in attack That is, until the 77th minute, when John Lawler’s curling effort beat the defence and keeper to hit the back of the net. After that Waldster comfortably held on to win 1-0, as Nick Cole continues to aim for an international club place with them.

Matchday 23

Saturday 12:30pm

Bavingtor FC 1–2 Kings Lunsel FC

League leaders Kings Lunsel travelled to Bavingtor, and for long periods of the game, the hosts looked likely to claim a great result in their pursuit of the Top 4 and international club football. Mark Paul’s 20th minute effort from 10 metres out was the goal that got them the lead. However in the 66th minute, a cross was knocked into the Bavingtor goal by hapless defender Perry Edwards, equalising the game. Then with minutes to go, Morten Christensen got a golden opportunity, and took it superbly, to take 3 points back to Kings Lunsel.

Saturday 3pm

Waldster FC 1–0 Marthorpe City FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 1–1 Apsbrooke FC
Hadford Hill FC 1–0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Carston Green FC 0–1 Sporting Towerhaite

The early goal by Chester Brooks gives Waldster 3 points over Marthorpe City, as the visitors drop to 8 points behind Kings Lunsel with only 7 games to go. Ramon Martin gave Langmere Green Rovers the lead in their match against Apsbrooke, but Timothy Kilgour ensured the side in the relegation zone at least got a point from the game. Hadford Hill manage to get a win against the struggling Loxthorpe Rovers, thanks to the national team captain Steven Hall. Sporting Towerhaite keep their hopes of staying in the race for the IFCF competitions alive, with Keith Murray hitting home a fiercely taken goal in the final 10 minutes.

Saturday 8pm

St Astons City FC 2–0 South Maishop FC

St Astons City came up against South Maishop in this Saturday night match. Dean Alfred’s reckless backpass to Lucky Diamond that missed the keeper and rolled into the net set the tone for the visitiors, as they were outplayed. Brian Bayliss added a second in the 79th minute, but arguably the hosts deserved more.

Sunday 3pm

Binclestead Wood FC 0–1 Westwood Garden City FC

Both these sides were struggling after impressive starts to the season. Clifford Dent’s shot at the near post from a cross was what Westwood Garden City needed to take a win, and 3 points that could prove very useful as they aim to distance themselves from the threat of relegation.

Sunday 5:30pm

Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 0–2 Stanmorn FC

Whilst not the 5-0 that happened earlier this season, Batchingtonwood Rovers didn’t fare well in this encounter with Stanmorn, and conceding 2 somewhat flatters the host. Scott Coleman and Charles Winward found it too easy to get through the defence to score early on, and from there the route back was far too much for the hosts. Batchingtonwood Rovers continue to try and stay up, but it’s looking ever more unlikely now.

Matchday 24

Friday 8pm

Sporting Towerhaite 0–1 Hadford Hill FC

Sporting Towerhaite were the hosts on this Friday Football Fever. Despite a good, competitive performance from the hosts, Ryan Hawkins got the opener and the only goal of the game in the 75th minute, with a good effort that went under the outstretched leg of the goalkeeper. Both teams now look to try and make sure they can at least finish in the top half, or even the Top 4.

Saturday 3pm

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–2 St Astons City FC
South Maishop FC 0–0 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Westwood Garden City FC 3–2 Bavingtor FC
Kings Lunsel FC 1–2 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC

Stephen Nichol’s early goal was cancelled out by Steven Glynn’s surprise goal in the 59th minute. Then in injury time, Brian Bayliss got the goal that took all 3 points back to St Astons City, and kept Loxthorpe Rovers firmly in the relegation fight. A point for South Maishop keeps them close to the drop zone, as Langmere Green Rovers appear to be in midtable purgatory at the moment. An entertaining game at Westwood Garden City saw Davidson and Ness make it 2-0, before Edwards and Paul pulled it back. Tarren Kidd’s 22 metre goal however gave the hosts 3 important points as they begin to rise away from relegation. The shock result was in Kings Lunsel, as an English own goal and Max Watson penalty put the visitors up by 2. English redeemed himself with a goal in the right net, but it wasn’t enough to stop Kings Lunsel losing to Batchingtonwood Rovers.

Saturday 5:30pm

Apsbrooke FC 2–0 Binclestead Wood FC

Apsbrooke’s hopes of staying in the Super League got just that bit better with a 2 goal win over Binclestead Wood. John McLean’s close goal put the home team up, and a defensive blunder from a corner saw the lead doubled towards the end. For Binclestead Wood however, they drop ever closer to the dreaded Bottom 3.

Saturday 8pm

Stanmorn FC 1–0 Waldster FC

A game between two teams right in contention for international club competition. It would take a star to separate the teams with the way the game was going, and it was Scott Coleman who did it, with a well taken volley 62 minutes in. That win put Stanmorn back in contention for the Top 4, in a battle with St Astons City, Waldster , Hadford Hill, and their local rivals Sporting Towerhaite.

Sunday 5:30pm

Marthorpe City FC 2–0 Carston Green FC

Marthorpe City took full advantage of Kings Lunsel’s loss with a fine victory over Carston Green. Ronald Peddie and Frank Adams goals capped off a dominant first half display. No goals in the second half, but the home team look well assured, they got the 3 points and the lead at the top is cut to 5.

Matchday 25

Friday 8pm

Bavingtor FC 1–1 Apsbrooke FC

Bavingtor hosted Friday Football Fever against Apsbrooke. Mark Paul got the goal in the first half to help Bavingtor lead much of this game. However 6 minutes before injury time at the end, Tony Elvidge’s 24 metre curling effort beat David Meehan, and Apsbrooke had a point from this game, as they try to avoid the drop.

Saturday 12:30pm

Langmere Green Rovers FC 3–2 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

The Green Derby was played between 2 sides who were both affected by poor starts to the season. The hosts had recovered, but the visitors were still in relegation trouble. Oliver Thomas and Ramon Martin put Langmere Green Rovers 2-0 up at half time. Stephen Nichols pulled one back in the 55th minute. Then, just before injury time, he got his second, tucking the ball home after a cross wasn’t cleared. However there was more drama 2 minutes later, with Johnson finding space to shoot through the defence, and he scored. 3-2, and after a slight delay to clear a pitch invasion by a dozen or so fans, Langmere Green Rovers won, reversing the scoreline from earlier the season and putting their rivals further into the relegation battle.

Saturday 3pm

Waldster FC 2–0 Kings Lunsel FC
Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 1–1 Westwood Garden City FC
Binclestead Wood FC 0–1 South Maishop FC
St Astons City FC 2–3 Sporting Towerhaite

Waldster continued their fine run of form at home, and beat leaders Kings Lunsel. Michael McGarry scored from outside the box, and Joe Dargie finished late on, with the visitors pushing men forward and being punished for it. Michael Upton’s opener was cancelled out by Thomas Kerr, as Batchingtonwood Rovers try to keep up any sort of realistic hope of survival. Patricio Munoz consigned Binclestead Wood to another defeat in a key match towards the bottom of the table. St Astons City had overturned a 2 goal deficit to draw level, but Anthony Miles scored on his left foot on the edge of the box to give Sporting Towerhaite the win and to close up the race for the Top 4.

Sunday 12:30pm

Hadford Hill FC 0–1 Carston Green FC

Hadford Hill’s hopes of a late season revival hit a block against Carston Green. A tight game throughout, the creative attack of Hadford Hill was stifled. Carston Green had few opportunities, but clumsy defending gave George Bunting a clear cut chance, and he took it well to give the visitors 3 points and to distance themselves somewhat from relegation fears.

Sunday 3pm

Stanmorn FC 1–2 Marthorpe City FC

Another loss for Kings Lunsel opened the door for Marthorpe City to close up, but they’d have to do it at Stanmorn, who were no pushovers. 3 national team players got the goals in this game. Feld tapped in after 9 minutes after some good passing created the space for him. James King equalised with a direct free kick, before Terence Daley gave Marthorpe City the winner with a driven shot just outside the 6 yard box. There’s just 2 points in it at the top of the table now.

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Quarter Finals

Saturday 12:30pm

(SL) Carston Green FC 1–2 (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC

The first of the quarter finals was an exciting match, with a good finale. Although the first half had a decent number of efforts, good goalkeeping meant it was 0-0. Just after the hour mark, and Christopher Johnson found time and space to get an accurate shot away to open the scoring. With 5 minutes to go, Michael Morley’s low driven shot on the edge of the box went in off the post. However it was for nothing, as a minute before injury time, Ramon Martin got on the end of a cross and put the ball over Kevin Norton and into the net. Langmere Green Rovers now go into the final 4.

Saturday 5:30pm

(EL) Gann FC 4–4 (SL) Waldster FC (4–4 AET) (2–3 pen.)

Without a doubt one of the matches of the cup so far. Gann, based in Waldster, played out a thriller against Waldster, but suffered the agony of a penalty shootout loss. John Hart of Gann gave them a shock lead in the 10th minute, catching out Ronald Edmonds in the Waldster goal. Waldster however rallied, and equalised minutes later, via Brian Buttery. Lancelot Wray then gave the visitors the lead in the 22nd minute, before John Lawler put them 1-3 up 5 minutes after that. John Hart pulled one back to make it 2-3 at half time. Lawler’s double gave the visitors what seemed a comfortable 2-4 lead, 53 minutes in. However, with 9 minutes to go, Hart completed his hat-trick with a good driven shot. Then a corner just before injury time saw defender James Crowe head home, taking it to extra time. No goals in extra time, and in the penalty shootout, it was Waldster the more accurate, and despite 2 saved penalties by the Gann keeper Robert Sharpe, the Super League side avoided a shock. A tough end for a small team, but the prize money from the cup run will prove invaluable as they battle for promotion to the second tier.

Sunday 12:30pm

(SL) Bavingtor FC 2–1 (CL) Narrock Wood United FC

A flurry of goals in the second half determined this game. A nervy first half saw few efforts, and the keepers were rarely tested. It was the 69th minute that the game was opened up, with a nice finish from in the box by Roger Hawkes. James Rooney of Narrock Wood United however got to the ball from a corner, and headed down and in just 3 minutes later. Bavingtor didn’t dwell on their lost lead, and restored it 5 minutes later, via a Mark Paul left-footed shot. Bavingtor held on to that lead, and progressed to the semi finals.

Sunday 5:30pm

(SL) Marthorpe City FC 2–1 (SL) South Maishop FC

Title challenging Marthorpe City went up against South Maishop in the final Quarter Final match. The form book went out of the window in the 42nd minute, when Robert Gilbert slid the ball past John Burnie to give the visitors the lead. For much of the second half, it was a question of if they could hold the lead. 10 minutes from time, and the answer to that was no. Terence Daley turned the defence inside out, and was able to hit the ball hard and fair past Lucky Diamond. In injury time, Jonathan Feld’s free kick wasn’t fully cleared, and Mark James managed to bundle the ball home, to the joy of the home fans. Marthorpe City march into the all-Super League semi finals.

by **Flavovespia** » Sat Apr 04, 2020 4:43 am

Super League

Matchday 26

Saturday 3pm

Carston Green FC 0–0 St Astons City FC
Sporting Towerhaite 0–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC
South Maishop FC 2–3 Bavingtor FC
Westwood Garden City FC 0–1 Waldster FC

The 3pm kickoffs at this stage of the season where largely games with limited affect at either end of the table. Carston Green hosted St Astons City, but there’s little to say about this game, other than a point each isn’t that helpful for the propsects of either side. Murad Ahmed’s goal from a tight angle after 76 minutes allowed Langmere Green Rovers to win, and to close in on the Top 4. Bavingtor twice took the lead and were pegged back by South Maishop, but in the 92nd minute, Mark Paul was brought down in the box, and he stepped up to score the penalty. Bavingtor still have faint hop of a Top 4 finish, but South Maishop drift back towards the relegation fight. Michael Cole’s 14 metre goal at the end of the first half was enough for Waldster to pick up 3 points and keeps them firmly in the IFCF spots.

Saturday 5:30pm

Marthorpe City FC 5–0 Hadford Hill FC

A match that was significant anyway, regardless of potential title implications, Marthorpe City hosted Hadford Hill in a local derby, and it was an unforgettable match. Early pressure paid off for Marthorpe City in the 11th minute, when Michael Marsden got a sight of goal and hit the target. 3 minutes later, and Feld cut in from the wing, dummied a through ball, and slid it home. In the 32nd minute, Julian Simon escaped his marker from a corner, and was on target to make the lead 3-0. On the stroke of half time, and Terence Daley got in on the act, his shot on the edge of the box finding its way in. The rout was finished off in the 72nd minute, with Ronald Peddie tapping home close to goal. 5-0, a truly unbelievable win for Marthorpe City against their local rivals Hadford Hill, and the pressure moves to Kings Lunsel in the title race.

Saturday 8pm

Kings Lunsel FC 3–0 Stanmorn FC

Kings Lunsel had seen the result at Marthorpe before this game, but were determined not to let that affect them. The first half however was a nervy affair, and Stanmorn looked the better side, the visitors still had a good shot at IFCF qualification. The deadlock was broken in the 60th minute. A direct free kick 22 metres out was taken by Jordaan Wolfson, and his curling effort went in the top corner, a superb goal to take the lead. Stanmorn threw everything at Kings Lunsel, but in the 88th minute, Scott Vaughan and Morten Christensen got clear of the defence. Christensen didn’t take the early shot and laid it to Vaughan, who doubled the lead. Finally in injury time, another free kick fell to Christensen who got his goal.

Sunday 3pm

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 4–1 Binclestead Wood FC

It was 14th vs 13th, with Loxthorpe Rovers hosting Binclestead Wood in an important relegation match. The first half saw both teams have chances, but nobody could take them, and it was 0-0 at half time. Only 3 minutes into the second half, and Malcolm Golfin’s shot gave the visitors the lead. However Loxthorpe Rovers weren’t going out without a fight. Sylvain Mathieu’s narrow angle shot was the 65th minute equaliser. Then the hosts took the lead in the 73rd minute, William Somers hitting home from the edge of the box. Only a minute later and a poor pass after the kick-off meant Neil Ambrose had the space to take a long range shot, and took it perfectly. Ernest Cliff’s header from a corner right at the end finished off an important win for Loxthorpe Rovers

Sunday 5:30pm

Apsbrooke FC 1–0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC

Almost a must win for the bottom 2 sides in this match. For long spells in the game, neither side really found their footing, and it looked like it could be a scoreless draw to help neither side. 11 minutes from time, and Graham Fletcher got the room to curl a shot into the net, and that would give Apsbrooke a vital 3 points. Meanwhile Batchingtonwood Rovers fall ever closer to relegation.

Matchday 27

Saturday 3pm

Stanmorn FC 0–1 Westwood Garden City FC
Waldster FC 1–0 Apsbrooke FC
Binclestead Wood FC 0–2 Sporting Towerhaite
Langmere Green Rovers FC 1–1 Carston Green FC

A late winner by David Michael helps Westwood Garden City move further from any lingering fears of relegation. For Stanmorn however, hopes of a Top 4 finish are hampered by that. John Lawler got the goal to give Waldster the win, further increasing their chances of a Top 4 finish, but leaving Apsbrooke ever closer to the drop. Binclestead Wood continue to struggle in 15th, with a Keith Murray double giving visitors Sporting Towerhaite 3 points. They too are in the hunt for the Top 4 after a good season. Langmere Green Rovers once again draw, Christopher Johnson’s goal cancelled out by Michael Morley’s. They lose some ground in the race for the Top 4, as Carston Green hope this result doesn’t lead to them falling closer to the drop

Saturday 5:30pm

Kings Lunsel FC 3–3 Marthorpe City FC

One match was getting all the attention this weekend, even with a big derby match elsewhere. 1st played 2nd with only 2 points separating the sides. The first shot on target saw the first goal, as Morten Christensen got inside the defence to hit it home. Ronald Peddie equalised 9 minutes later though, getting on to the end of David Blythe’s cross. He then gave the visitors the lead in the 25th minute, this time getting to a ball over the top and blasting it past Robert Jones. In the second half Victor Adeyemo, who left Marthorpe City for Kings Lunsel in the transfer window before the seasonstarted, equalised with a shot across the face of goal. His celebrations were muted compared to that of his teammates. As fate would have it, he scored again just a few minutes later, with a right footed shot close in. Terence Daley beat the defence to equalise in the 60th minute, and from there on, despite more efforts, the score would remain that way until the end. A slight advantage for Kings Lunsel, who stay on top, in a cracking title battle match.

Sunday 12:30pm

Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 1–0 South Maishop FC

Batchingtonwood Rovers came into this game knowing that without a win, relegation was almost certain, maybe even in this Matchday. The game was close, and both teams had opportunities, but nothing clear cut enough to score. It was Lyndon Brett however, in the 79th minute who got clear in midfield and hit it hard into the roof of the net beyond Lucky Diamond, that made the difference. Batchingtonwood Rovers live to fight another day, but South Maishop are in increasing danger of dropping into the bottom 3.

Sunday 3pm

Bavingtor FC 1–0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Loxthorpe Rovers failed to take advantage of other results, as they were defeated in Bavingtor. Mark Paul got the deciding goal in the 12th minute, a poorly cleared cross fell to him and he was able to place it in the net. After that, the visitors couldn’t get back into the game, in a disappointing display. The relegation threat is still very real for them, meanwhile Bavingtor are still in the Top 4 battle, but not quite in the Top 4 yet.

Sunday 5:30pm

St Astons City FC 1–1 Hadford Hill FC

With all the battles at the top and bottom, some forget that derbies can still take place. St Astons City hosted Hadford Hill in one of the Big 3 derbies. Christopher Ace’s drilled effort from a close angle gave the home team the lead after 10 minutes. However Donald Fraser’s headed effort equalised it in the 26th minute. The petty fouls and tussles in the second half dominated more than any goalmouth action, as both sides lose ground in the Top 4 race, Hadford Hill especially who are now in the bottom half.

Matchday 28

Saturday 12:30pm

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC

Loxthorpe Rovers came into this game 13th and level on points with Apsbrooke in 14th, and they needed a win to try and distance themselves from the bottom 3 and relegation. Vengeance for their 4-0 loss in Batchingtonwood was also on their minds. Batchingtonwood Rovers knew a loss would relegate them, and a draw would, barring a massive swing in goal difference, do the same to them. Batchingtonwood were the more attacking in the first half, but weren’t able to take advantage, as Loxthorpe Rovers looked to play a composed game. In the 54th minute, Gary Carr found the space to get a good shot away, and was rewarded with a goal. From there on, it was a cautious game by the hosts, keen to take the 3 points and not risk it for more goals. At the full time whistle, Loxthorpe Rovers took a massive 3 points in the context of the season. For Batchingtonwood Rovers, their survival dreams were over.

Saturday 3pm

Hadford Hill FC 0–3 Langmere Green Rovers FC
Sporting Towerhaite 1–1 Bavingtor FC
South Maishop FC 1–2 Waldster FC
Apsbrooke FC 0–3 Stanmorn FC

Hadford Hill’s poor second half of the season continued, as they were comfortably beaten by Langmere Green Rovers. Callery, Martin and Johnson made sure Hadford Hill would likely finish the season only mid-table, and gave their team a chance at the Top 4. Mark Paul’s early effort was cancelled out by Keith Murray, as Sporting Towerhaite and Bavingtor play out a 1-1 draw. Despite taking the lead through Mahtab Ahmad, Brian Buttery and Michael Cole gave Waldster the win in the second half. Waldster have now confirmed a finish in the Top 4, a remarkable turnaround from the beginning of the season. South Maishop continue to be stuck in the relegation battle. King, McClafferty and Collins gave Stanmorn the win at Apsbrooke. The pressure increases on the hosts, not least with Loxthorpe Rovers earlier win.

Saturday 5:30pm

Carston Green FC 0–0 Binclestead Wood FC

Carston Green were still not quite out of relegation danger, as they hosted Binclestead Wood in the top 3. The onus was on the visitors to get a win here, as not losing was more the aim for the hosts. However a good defensive effort from Carston Green made sure they got a point in this game. A few wasteful efforts prevented it being 3 points, but at this stage, it looks like a point is good work for Carston Green.

Sunday 12:30pm

Marthorpe City FC 0–1 St Astons City FC

Marthorpe City hosted St Astons City in one of 2 crucial matches for the title this matchday. The nervy start by Marthorpe City proved to be their undoing, when Victor Cooke slipped through to score after 17 minutes. With the visitors still playing hard for a Top 4 spot, this was going to be a tough match to get back into. Despite some good midfield play and dangerous crosses, Marthorpe City couldn’t manage it, and St Astons City took the win.

Sunday 3pm

Westwood Garden City FC 1–2 Kings Lunsel FC

The eyes of the nation now moved to Westwood, to see if Kings Lunsel could capitalise on Marthorpe City’s defeat. Just before half time, Victor Adeyemo got on the end of a through ball by Chris Flynn to put the visitors ahead. They continued to play well in the second half, but in the 78th minute, David Michael’s skilful dribble and finish equalised the game. It was a nervy, nail-biting finish, but then with 3 minutes before injury time, Yungen Li met the cross of Gregory Craigen on the volley, and the ball hit the back of the net. The old veteran had scored one of the most important goals of his career, as Kings Lunsel took a 5 point lead at the top with just 2 games left in the season.

Matchday 29

Saturday 12:30pm

Kings Lunsel FC 0–0 Apsbrooke FC

Kings Lunsel knew that if they won this game, they were the 28AU Super League champions. Their visitors Apsbrooke however, also had their own relegation fears to play for, and weren’t going to be easy oppoents. Kings Lunsel were the better side in the first half, but couldn’t find a good opportunity, and Graham Fletcher almost scored on the counter for the visitors. The second half was a similar pattern, and Victor Adeyemo had his 8 metre effort saved brilliantly by Conor Harrington in the 86th minute. The full time whistle blew and it was a scoreless draw. Kings Lunsel were still not champions, although Marthorpe now needed to win both their games and hope Kings Lunsel lose their final game. Apsbrooke stay 14th, in the relegation zone, and will take their relegation battle to the final day.

Saturday 3pm

Waldster FC 0–0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC
Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 1–0 Sporting Towerhaite
Bavingtor FC 1–2 Carston Green FC
Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–1 St Astons City FC

Waldster are still chasing a potential 2nd place spot, but a goalless draw against Loxthorpe Rovers doesn’t help. With Apsbrooke’s loss, Loxthorpe Rovers know they’ll start the final Matchday 3 points clear of the relegation zone, and most likely with a good goal difference differential between them and the other sides in the bottom 3. Batchingtonwood Rovers’ final home Super League game is a surprise win over Sporting Towerhaite, with an early goal by teenager Bernard Pritchard the decider. Sporting Towerhaite drop out of the race for the Top 4, and go into the final Matchday with little to play for. Carston Green’s 1-2 win at Bavingtor, thanks to a late Devon Hamilton goal, confirms their Super League status for another season. Bavingtor drop out of the Top 4 race as well, but still have the Flavovespia Gold Cup to play for. In the 5th vs 4th matchup, Langmere Green Rovers edged out St Astons City 2-1, and they move up to 4th, taking the driving seat for that final IFCF spot.

Saturday 5:30pm

Westwood Garden City FC 2–0 Marthorpe City FC

Westwood once again was the scene of another important match in the title race, as Westwood Garden City play host to Marthorpe City. Marthorpe City made a good start, and Terence Daley was unlucky not to score in the 22nd minute. That would be costly, as in the 30th minute, Michael Upton got the ball in the centre of the box, and fired home. It’d be 1-0 at half time, and Marthorpe City had to come out attacking in the second half. Despite some good spells of possession, they weren’t getting a breakthrough. Then in the 78th minute, Marthorpe City couldn’t clear their lines from a free kick, and Graham Ness swept in to double the lead. The visitors look dejected, and struggled to muster a good chance, let alone the 3 they needed. The final whistle went, and jubilation broke out in the streets of Kings Lunsel, as they were crowned the 28AU Super League champions.

Sunday 12:30pm

Binclestead Wood FC 1–1 Hadford Hill FC

Binclestead Wood had the chance to capitalise on Apsbrooke only drawing and South Maishop yet to play, as they try to stay in the Super League. Hadford Hill had little to play for, out of the Top 4 race, but mathematically safe, not that it was much consolation for a team who at one point looked like title challengers. Edward Barkes got the early goal for Hadford Hill, from a whipped in free kick by Steven Hall. They looked comfortable at half-time and for the early stages of the second half. However Robert Clarke’s 25 metre effort was fierce and accurate, and was the equaliser. It finished 1-1, a result neither side really benefits from, as Binclestead Wood now know they have to win in the final Matchday to have any chance of survival.

Sunday 3pm

Stanmorn FC 2–1 South Maishop FC

A crucial game for both sides. Stanmorn needed the win to stay in the race for 4th place. For South Maishop, they were 13th, but knew a win would put them very close to survival. A tense first half saw some good shots and good saves, but no decisive moments. It would take Scott Coleman to break the deadlock, with a good run and shot to give Stanmorn the lead. James King followed up 10 minutes later, direct from a free kick. Stanmorn were comfortable, although in the second minute of injury time, John Bell scored on the rebound from a deflected cross. South Maishop couldn’t get another chance though, and Stanmorn won 2-1.

Matchday 30

Saturday 3pm

It’s just before the final kickoff of the season, a run down of all the games and the key battles:

Marthorpe City FC vs Langmere Green Rovers FC: Marthorpe City need to win to guarantee second, but a draw will realistically do it. A win for Langmere Green Rovers, and they’re 3rd or 4th and in the IFCF Globe Cup.

St Astons City FC vs Binclestead Wood FC: Nothing but a win can save Binclestead Wood, and even then they’re relying on South Maishop and Apsbrooke’s results to go in their favour. A win gives St Astons City a chance at 4th, but they need Langmere Green Rovers to lose, or draw with a big win for St Astons City. Stanmorn winning big will also hurt St Astons City

Hadford Hill FC vs Bavingtor FC: Other than the midtable order, nothing to play for in Highland Road.

Carston Green FC vs Batchingtonwood Rovers FC: Carston Green are safe and hoping they can move up from 11th. Batchingtonwood Roves are relegated in last place, and will just want to have a consolation win.

Sporting Towerhaite FC vs Waldster FC: All Sporting Towerhaite have to play for is their final midtable position, or the very dim hope overtaking Stanmorn on goal difference (a swing of 12 is needed). Waldster have a chance of 2nd with a win, but it’s not in their hands. They could drop to 4th if they lose

Loxthorpe Rovers FC vs Stanmorn FC: Loxthorpe Rovers are safe, but will soon want to forget this season. A win for Stanmorn could see them reach 4th, but they need other results to go their way

South Maishop FC vs Kings Lunsel FC: 13th place South Maishop are safe if they beat the new champions, but a draw or loss, and it’s in the hands of Apsbrooke and Binclestead Wood, especially as the goal difference swing needed is only 4 realistically. Kings Lunsel of course have nothing to play for as they are champions.

Apsbrooke FC vs Westwood Garden City FC: For Apsbrooke, a nailbiter of a game as they play in Meadow Hill for the final time, before moving to Apsbrooke Arena. They need to better the result of South Maishop, likely by 4 goals, and hope that if they draw and South Maishop lose, Binclestead Wood don’t win.

0 minutes – Kickoff across the 8 grounds, as the final Matchday commences. The next few hours will determine who goes down, and who goes international.
7 minutes – Sporting Towerhaite 0 – 1 Waldster FC – Our first goal is at Towerhaite Stadium, and it goes to Brian Buttery. A good passage of play sees Michael Cole play in Brian Buttery, who takes it well to score.
9 minutes – Sporting Towerhaite 0 – 2 Waldster FC – Brian Buttery does it again! It’s from a corner, the ball isn’t dealt with, and he tucks it in at the far post. Maybe some pressure building in the race for 2nd.
16 minutes – St Astons City FC 0 – 1 Binclestead Wood FC – A big goal in the relegation battle! Patrick Turner gets it into the mixer, Malcolm Golfin takes a swing at it, and steers the ball into the net. A crucial goal, the pressure is on South Maishop and Apsbrooke for a response now. Still 14th though as it stands for Binclestead Wood
31 minutes – South Maishop FC 1 – 0 Kings Lunsel FC – This is a major result if it stays likes this. South Maishop take the lead against the new champions! John Bell saw his effort parried away by Robert Jones, but Philip Taylor gets there first on the follow up and is on target. If South Maishop hold on, and it’s a big if, they stay in the Super League!
31 minutes – Apsbrooke FC 0 – 1 Westwood Garden City FC – And as if the news coming from South Maishop isn’t bad enough, Apsbrooke fall behind! Clifford Dent’s header from a corner deflects into Roy John, but he can only knock it into his own goal. A disaster for Apsbrooke.
37 minutes – Apsbrooke FC 1 – 1 Westwood Garden City FC - A glimmer of hope for Apsbrooke, as Tony Elvidge dribbles past a defender to open up the opportunity, and although not the cleanest of shots, it still goes in. Apsbrooke still need another goal though, and for South Maishop to get pegged back.
38 minutes – Carston Green FC 1 – 0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC – Not a game with much meaning, but Andrew Payne manages to play a clever one two with John Pearce. Payne then takes the shot on, and a good finish for a defender sees the hosts take the lead.
38 minutes – Apsbrooke FC 1 – 2 Westwood Garden City FC – The equaliser is immediately nullified here at Apsbrooke. Almost from the kickoff, David Michael dribbles through to face up Conor Harirngton. The first shot is blocked, but then Michael Upton slides in and nudges it over the line. It gets tougher again for Apsbrooke.
Half time – South Maishop have the lead, and that will keep them up, and send Binclestead Wood and Apsbrooke down if it stays that way. Marthorpe, Waldster and Langmere Green Rovers are in the IFCF Globe Cup spots as it stands.
62 minutes – Hadford Hill FC 1 – 0 Bavingtor FC - Not a significant game today, but a goal to tell you about. It’s Steven Hall with a cross into the box, finding Edward Barkes who manages to beat Ben Blyth in the air, and heads down low and into the corner beyond David Meehan.
63 minutes – Disallowed Goal – Hadford Hill FC 0 – 0 Bavingtor FC – No it’s been ruled out! The referee viewed the replay, saw what he deemed to be a shove in the back from Barkes, and it’s disallowed. Boos ring out from the crowd, and Barkes is caught on camera muttering unrepeatable words about that decision.
69 minutes – Sporting Towerhaite 1 – 2 Waldster FC – Well it got a bit more exciting here in Towerhaite Stadium. Keith Murray is able to chest a deep ball down, and hit it on the half volley, beyond Jonathan Swain. Maybe a chance for the hosts to get something against their opponents from nearby.
69 minutes – Loxthorpe Rovers 0 – 1 Stanmorn FC – Stanmorn lead at Loxthorpe. It was a good corner from James King, and bad marking left Neil Wright able to head the ball exactly where he wanted it, and the visitors lead. They’ll need to hold on, and hope that Langmere Green Rovers concede to move into 4th.
70 minutes – Marthorpe City FC 1 – 0 Langmere Green Rovers FC – Stanmorn get the goal they want almost immediately! Terence Daley pulled the defence towards him, and that left Feld with the room to make a run in from outside. He did, and finished past Bullivant. Now that puts Stanmorn 4th, Langmere Green Rovers 5th, and St Astons City 6th as it stands. Marthorpe just need to hold on for at least a draw, and they’ll be 2nd.
85 minutes – Nerves all around the grounds are growing. Just one goal could change everything for some teams. The final minutes of this season are upon us.
90 minutes – Hadford Hill FC 1 – 0 Bavingtor FC – This one definitely stands! Steven Hall gets it in the Bavingtor half, he evades 2 tackles, before a great curling effort to beat international teammate David Meehan. It looks like Hadford Hill at least finish the season with a cheer.
Full time – South Maishop FC 1 – 0 Kings Lunsel FC – A pitch invasion as the final whistle blows! South Maishop have done it, a win over the champions, and they know they are 13th, and in the Super League for another season. We now wait for the crowds to dispense so that the trophy presentation for Kings Lunsel can occur.
Full time – Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0 - 1 Stanmorn FC – Some Loxthorpe Rovers fan leave fairly quickly, almost keen to immediately forget this season ever happened. Others wait with the Stanmorn players on the pitch and fans in the crowd, to hear the final scores come in from Marthorpe and St Astons.
Full time – Marthorpe City FC 1 – 0 Langmere Green Rovers FC – Marthorpe City confirm they’re 2nd, after Feld’s second half goal. For Langmere Green Rovers, despite a strong revival, it isn’t quite enough to make the IFCF. Cheers from Stanmorn and also Loxthorpe Rovers fans back in Loxthorpe, as they know barring a miracle comeback by St Astons City, it’s Stanmorn and not Loxthorpe Rovers’ rival Langmere Green Rovers 4th this year.
94 minutes – Red Card – St Astons City FC 0 – 1 Binclestead Wood FC – Ugly scenes here. With some fans chanting that Binclestead Wood are going down, they deploy timewasting tactics and hold the ball in the corner. Graham Keeley 2 foots John MacDonald off the ball, and a brawl ensues with several getting involved. Keeley is the only one to see red, but the GWFA disciplinary panel will be looking at this one.
Full time – Apsbrooke FC 1 – 2 Westwood Garden City FC – It’s all over in Meadow Hill, Apsbrooke, in sad scenes. The final game at this historic ground, and it sees the home side relegated. Already confirmed when news that South Maishop had won, Apsbrooke end their time here on a low, low note. Disconsolate fans and players are everywhere, as Westwood Garden City players somewhat sheepishly go over to their away fans who congratulate them on a solid season.
95 minutes – Red Card – Carston Green 1 – 0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC - Archie Black of Batchintonwood Rovers doesn’t end his season on a good note, as he hacks down George Bunting in the box. Originally a yellow, it was overturned to a red via video replay.
96 minutes – Carston Green FC 2 – 0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC – Carston Green give the ball to the retiring Peter Bishop in his final game to take the penalty. It’s on target, and Craig Maughan goes the wrong way.
Full time – Sporting Towerhaite 1 -2 Waldster FC – They didn’t get 2nd in the end, but for Waldster FC, a brilliant recovery after a poor start to make the IFCF. Although they lost this one, Sporting Towerhaite also finish off a good season, with both sets of players in good spirits coming off the pitch.
Full time – St Astons City FC 0 – 1 Binclestead Wood FC – Not a happy ground here. Binclestead Wood go down, and the time wasting antics to at least win this game result in a fight breaking out. A few Binclestead Wood fans are tackled on the pitch after attempting to confront players, although of which side we’re unsure of. St Astons City finish 6th, and outside the IFCF spots.
Full time – Hadford Hill FC 1 – 0 Bavingtor FC – It wasn’t the season Hadford Hill expected after their start, but Steven Hall’s winner means they come away with a win to end it. Bavingtor lose this, but are still in the Flavovespia Gold Cup, alongside Waldster, Marthorpe City and Langmere Green Rovers.
Full time – Carston Green FC 2 – 0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC – The final final whistle blows. Carston Green finish with the 10-10-10 record and will stay up after their promotion last season. Batchingtonwood Rovers lose, but the squad go over to their legion of travelling fans, to get one last send off in the Super League.

And there it is. Another Super League season done. There’s still the Flavovespia Gold Cup and the promotion playoffs, but in the top flight, the trophy has been presented, the name engraved. The final standings are out, and for a few months, league football takes a rest.

Challenge League

The promotion race in the Challenge League went down to the wire, with Guildwell hosting Vale and Croxlich hosting Buchraston. A 1-1 draw in Guildwell, and a 2-0 win for Croxlich gave Vale the title and Croxlich second, pushing Guildwell into the playoffs on goal difference. They’re joined by Butterfield Rovers, Henhaven Islanders and Capton Club. Narrock Wood United had aspirations of a playoff place at least, but missed out in 7th. Nailwood Mills didn’t make the palyoffs again, but 8th is still a respectable position for them.

Hopford spent much of the season in danger of relegation, but a late run of form pushed them all the way up to 9th. North Mayshop and Rumlington Rovers followed, both having middling seasons and staying relatively clear of the promotion and relegation zones. Millsea were close to the drop towards the end, but managed to do enough to come 12th and stay in the second tier. No such luck for the famous Abbots Lunsel. They’ve been relegated to the Eastern League, only the second ever time in their history they’ll be in the third tier. Cartswood spent much of the season not many points from safety, but couldn’t pick themselves up and finished 14th. Slaton and Buchraston just never got going, and they drop back into the third tier after their promotion last season.

Western League

Whittlesbury Wanderers win the Western League and promotion to the second tier for the first ever time in their history. They’ll be joined by one of Old Marthorpe, Claychester, Vitarias Legion or Sandneston Rovers from the playoffs. Havermilly in 6th will be disappointed to not even make the playoffs. Redthwaite Rangers were 7th, followed by two rival teams, Saltearth and Boleland Wood Town. Caffchin come 10th. The relegation race was still wide open on the final day, but Langpool Capton, Melcave Meerkats and South Hadford United did enough to stay up. No such luck for Malsterbrack, relegated on the final day. Relegation for Panford and Napsmouth had been confirmed before the final Matchday.

Eastern League

Gann, Gold Cup quarter finalists, capped off their great season with the Eastern League win and promotion to the second tier. Having nearly been relegated last season, FC North Waldster enter the playoffs in second position. Boll Lake Mariners join them, followed by surprise entrants Highhadford and Buchraston Heath. The playoff battle was close, but Captonbride Rangers, Locksmith-on-Carron, Johns Park and Radstye Rangers all missed out on the final Matchday. Oxwich were 10th, a bit below expectations. Woodbrook, Henhaven Beachside and Oxwich Wood followed up, all avoiding a last Matchday relegation fight. Frostbrook Rovers however are relegated after a stint of over 25 years in the league. Alstone and Leabury also go down, 2 teams who have yo-yoed a bit in the modern era.

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Semi Finals

Saturday 12:30pm

(SL) Marthorpe City FC 0–2 (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC

The title had eluded Marthorpe City, however they still had a chance at silverware. Meanwhile after their failure to reach the Globe Cup, Langmere Green Rovers were playing for a Cup Winners Cup berth, as well as the Flavovespia Gold Cup. Marthorpe Cty had the early pressure, but against the run of play, Langmere Green Rovers scored. Murad Ahmed found time just inside the box to shoot, and he took it well, to open up the scoring. The game was more open, but goals weren’t forthcoming for a while. It was Ahmed again who scored in the 65th minute, from a similar position with a first time shot. From there, Langmere Green Rovers looked in control, and they progressed to the final.

Saturday 5:30pm

(SL) Bavingtor FC 0–0 (SL) Waldster FC (1–0 AET)

A tight and tense game throughout between two teams who knew they had a great chance at taking home the trophy. Michael Cole came close in the 23rd minute, but David Meehan denied him well. Roger Hawkes only had the keeper Jonathan Swain to beat in the 80th minute, but blasted the ball over the bar. It was 0-0 after 90 minutes, and extra time commenced. However the game changed in just the 2nd minute of extra time. A corner was floated in by Robert Wills, and Joseph Judah got his head on the ball, and steered it just inside the post and in. 1-0 to Bavingtor. From there on, it was all mainly attack by Waldster, but Bavingtor held on with solid defending and Meehan making 2 good saves. Bavingtor advance to the final, and Waldster’s season comes to an end.

by **Flavovespia** » Sat Apr 04, 2020 2:57 pm

League Cup

The League Cup doesn’t carry the same prestige as the Flavovespia Gold Cup, and it’s midweek games are criticised by some as a needless distraction. Nevertheless, it gives third tier sides a guraranteed home match vs high league opposition in Round 1. No major upsets in the first Round, all 16 Super League sides won their matches. Langpool Capton and Frostbrook Rovers of the 3rd tier deserve credit for reaching the Round of 16, and Nailwood Mills were the last non-Super League side left at the quarter final stage. The final was Kings Lunsel vs Langmere Green Rovers. It was close and exciting in the first half, 2-2 at the break. Kings Lunsel got their 3rd in the 64 minutes. Sadly towards the end it all fell apart for Langmere Green Rovers. 2 red cards and a defensive breakdown saw them concede 3 in the final 10 minutes, and it finished 6-2 to Kings Lunsel.

Alliance Shield

The 96 “non-league” sides making up the Alliance league have their own version of the League Cup. The final between Westwood and Brimton went all the way to a penalty shootout, with 120 minutes played and a 2-2 deadlock. Westwood held their nerve, and won the penalty shootout 4-2, winning the Alliance Shield. This was their 4th final, but the only time they’ve managed to win, so despite the relatively low prestige of the tournament, their fans didn’t care.

Promotion Playoffs

Semi Finals 1st leg

Challenge League
Capton Club 2–1 Guildwell Football
Henhaven Islanders FC 0–2 Butterfield Rovers FC

Western League
Sandneston Rovers FC 1–0 Old Marthorpe FC
Vitarias Legion 0–1 Claychester FC

Eastern League
Buchraston Heath FC 0–1 FC North Waldster
Highhadford FC 0–1 Boll Lake Mariners FC

Capton Club get a 2-1 win over Guildwell Football, giving them a great chance of getting to the play-off final. Butterfield Rover’s 0-2 win at Henhaven Islanders will most likely see the visitors go through when they have the home advantage. Sandneston Rovers got the edge over Old Marthorpe in their match, but the others have all gone to form so far.

Semi Finals 2nd leg

Challenge League
Guildwell Football [4] 3–1 [3] Capton Club
Butterfield Rovers FC [2] 0–1 [1] Henhaven Islanders FC

Western League
Old Marthorpe FC [0] 0–1 [2] Sandneston Rovers FC
Claychester FC [4] 3–0 [0] Vitarias Legion

Eastern League
FC North Waldster [1] 0–0 [0] Buchraston Heath FC
Boll Lake Mariners FC [3] 2–0 [0] Highhadford FC

Guildwell Football overturn their loss in the first leg, with a 2 goal win at home to make it to the play-off final at the expense of Capton Club. In the other leg, a 1 goal win for Henhaven Islanders at Butterfield Rovers isn’t enough, and the hosts go through for a chance to make it back to the Super League. Sandneston Rovers and Claychester get comfortable wins to progress on to their play-off final. A scoreless draw and a 2 goal win respectively are the results that mean FC North Waldster and Boll Lake Mariners will face-off for a chance to win promotion to the second tier.

Play-off Final

Challenge League
Guildwell Football 0–1 Butterfield Rovers FC

Western League
Claychester FC 1–0 Sandneston Rovers FC

Eastern League
FC North Waldster 1–0 Boll Lake Mariners FC

Guildwell were in their second play-off final in a row. However it was Gary Watson’s 54th minute looping shot that was the decisive goal in this game. Butterfield Rovers return to the Super League, making it a clean sweep of promotion from the 3 sides relegated to the Challenge League at the end of last season. The 17th minute goal by Stuart Dunn was the one that took Claychester back to the Challenge League, defeating Sandneston Rovers. Warren King’s scruffy 25th minute goal will be remembered as the goal that took FC North Waldster to the Challenge League, for the very first time in their history. Last season they nearly went down, now they’re promoted.

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Final

Saturday 3pm

(SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC 1–2 (SL) Bavingtor FC

Saints Park in St Astons City was the venue for the Flavovespia Gold Cup final this year. Langmere Green Rovers took to the field in their all white home kit. Bavingtor were in their dark green away shirts, with the black shorts and socks from the home kit. The opener came only 4 minutes after kick-off. Roger Hawkes was held up on the edge of the box, but played the ball into the path of the oncoming Andrew Hurst. The veteran midfielder took it in stride, and placed the ball low beyond the outstretched legs of Andrew Bullivant in the Langmere Green Rovers goal. 0-1 to Bavingtor early on. Langmere Green Rovers were shaken, but composed themselves and looked for an equaliser. They got it in the 16th minute. Ramon Martin was pushed out wide by the defence, but was still able to

Code: Select all: Super League Marthorpe City FC 1–0 Langmere Green Rovers FC St Astons City FC 0–1 Binclestead Wood FC Hadford Hill FC 1–0 Bavingtor FC Carston Green FC 2–0 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC Sporting Towerhaite 1–2 Waldster FC Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0–1 Stanmorn FC South Maishop FC 1–0 Kings Lunsel FC Apsbrooke FC 1–2 Westwood Garden City FC Super League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Kings Lunsel FC 30 16 9 5 38 21 +17 57 CL AOCL 2 Marthorpe City FC 30 16 6 8 45 28 +17 54 CC 3 Waldster FC 30 15 7 8 32 24 +8 52 CC 4 Stanmorn FC 30 14 5 11 39 28 +11 47 CC 5 Langmere Green Rovers FC 30 13 7 10 42 29 +13 46 6 St Astons City FC 30 12 8 10 40 29 +11 44 7 Westwood Garden City FC 30 13 3 14 31 33 −2 42 8 Sporting Towerhaite 30 12 5 13 35 38 −3 41 9 Bavingtor FC 30 11 8 11 31 34 −3 41 CWC 10 Hadford Hill FC 30 11 7 12 30 32 −2 40 11 Carston Green FC 30 10 10 10 26 29 −3 40 12 Loxthorpe Rovers FC 30 10 5 15 31 37 −6 35 13 South Maishop FC 30 9 8 13 32 40 −8 35 14 Binclestead Wood FC 30 9 6 15 25 36 −11 33 R 15 Apsbrooke FC 30 8 8 14 24 37 −13 32 R 16 Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 30 8 4 18 21 47 −26 28 R Challenge League Challenge League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Vale FC 30 16 8 6 38 19 +19 56 P LB 2 Croxlich FC 30 15 11 4 33 17 +16 56 P LB 3 Guildwell Football 30 15 11 4 36 25 +11 56 4 Butterfield Rovers FC 30 15 9 6 36 24 +12 54 P LB 5 Henhaven Islanders FC 30 14 9 7 36 24 +12 51 6 Capton Club 30 14 6 10 31 26 +5 48 7 Narrock Wood United FC 30 10 11 9 38 37 +1 41 8 Nailwood Mills FC 30 11 7 12 28 28 0 40 9 Hopford FC 30 11 6 13 28 27 +1 39 10 North Mayshop FC 30 8 13 9 34 39 −5 37 11 Rumlington Rovers FC 30 9 9 12 26 28 −2 36 12 Millsea FC 30 9 9 12 33 39 −6 36 13 Abbots Lunsel FC 30 8 9 13 26 34 −8 33 R 14 Cartswood FC 30 4 11 15 23 37 −14 23 R 15 Slaton FC 30 4 10 16 23 42 −19 22 R 16 Buchraston FC 30 5 5 20 22 45 −23 20 R CL Promotion Playoffs Capton Club 2–1 Guildwell Football Guildwell Football 3–1 Capton Club Henhaven Islanders FC 0–2 Butterfield Rovers FC Butterfield Rovers FC 0–1 Henhaven Islanders FC Guildwell Football 0–1 Butterfield Rovers FC Western League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Whittlesbury Wanderers 30 16 10 4 48 20 +28 58 P 2 Old Marthorpe FC 30 16 7 7 45 23 +22 55 3 Claychester FC 30 16 7 7 38 28 +10 55 P 4 Vitarias Legion 30 15 8 7 29 20 +9 53 5 Sandneston Rovers FC 30 14 8 8 31 22 +9 50 6 Havermilly FC 30 13 9 8 34 24 +10 48 7 Redthwaite Rangers FC 30 9 13 8 38 31 +7 40 8 Saltearth FC 30 10 9 11 30 36 −6 39 9 Boleland Wood Town FC 30 9 10 11 25 35 −10 37 10 Caffchin FC 30 10 7 13 34 47 −13 37 11 Langpool Capton FC 30 9 8 13 27 34 −7 35 12 Melcave Meerkats 30 8 11 11 27 34 −7 35 13 South Hadford United 30 7 12 11 26 33 −7 33 14 Maltsterbrack FC 30 9 6 15 24 32 −8 33 R 15 Napsmouth FC 30 4 9 17 24 42 −18 21 R 16 Panford FC 30 4 8 18 21 40 −19 20 R WL Promotion Playoffs Sandneston Rovers FC 1–0 Old Marthorpe FC Old Marthorpe FC 0–1 Sandneston Rovers FC Vitarias Legion 0–1 Claychester FC Claychester FC 3–0 Vitarias Legion Claychester FC 1–0 Sandneston Rovers FC Eastern League Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Gann FC 30 19 3 8 33 18 +15 60 P 2 FC North Waldster 30 15 7 8 42 34 +8 52 P 3 Boll Lake Mariners FC 30 14 9 7 45 27 +18 51 4 Highhadford FC 30 13 9 8 35 31 +4 48 5 Buchraston Heath FC 30 14 5 11 38 30 +8 47 6 Captonbridge Rangers FC 30 14 5 11 33 29 +4 47 7 Locksmith-on-Carron FC 30 13 7 10 39 31 +8 46 8 Johns Park FC 30 14 4 12 31 28 +3 46 9 Radstye Rangers FC 30 14 3 13 31 39 −8 45 10 Oxwich FC 30 14 1 15 31 31 0 43 11 Woodbrook FC 30 10 6 14 32 38 −6 36 12 Henhaven Beachside 30 9 8 13 28 33 −5 35 13 Oxwich Wood FC 30 10 5 15 27 37 −10 35 14 Frostbrook Rovers FC 30 7 8 15 29 37 −8 29 R 15 Alstone FC 30 7 6 17 21 40 −19 27 R 16 Leabury FC 30 6 8 16 28 40 −12 26 R EL Promotion Playoffs Buchraston Heath FC 0–1 FC North Waldster FC North Waldster 0–0 Buchraston Heath FC Highhadford FC 0–1 Boll Lake Mariners FC Boll Lake Mariners FC 2–0 Highhadford FC FC North Waldster 1–0 Boll Lake Mariners FC Western Alliance D1 Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Westwood FC 30 20 4 6 45 18 +27 64 P 2 Magic Roundabout FC 30 20 1 9 47 24 +23 61 P 3 Combury FC 30 17 7 6 40 19 +21 58 4 Hadford Industrial United 30 16 5 9 47 21 +26 53 5 Hadford Dacorum FC 30 12 10 8 39 28 +11 46 P 6 Woodlee Farm 30 14 4 12 37 31 +6 46 7 Floombury United FC 30 12 6 12 35 36 −1 42 8 Ellerstone United FC 30 12 6 12 34 36 −2 42 9 Addenleigh Rangers FC 30 10 9 11 25 36 −11 39 10 Walbert Street FC 30 11 5 14 34 35 −1 38 11 Old Saints FC 30 9 7 14 26 33 −7 34 12 Ellerstone Aerodrome 30 7 11 12 33 44 −11 32 13 Pykrot End FC 30 9 5 16 36 54 −18 32 R 14 Hadford Aerodrome 30 8 5 17 27 49 −22 29 R 15 Flawthrope FC 30 5 12 13 17 31 −14 27 R 16 St Astons Striders FC 30 5 9 16 25 52 −27 24 R WA1 Promotion Playoffs Woodlee Farm 0–1 Combury FC Combury FC 1–0 Woodlee Farm Hadford Dacorum FC 2–2 Hadford Industrial United Hadford Industrial United 2–3 Hadford Dacorum FC Combury FC 0–1 Hadford Dacorum FC Eastern Alliance D1 Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Camber Place FC 30 18 5 7 45 27 +18 59 P 2 Henhaven Palace FC 30 16 3 11 42 30 +12 51 P 3 Galling Rangers 7AU 30 15 4 11 28 25 +3 49 P 4 Calhead Rangers FC 30 14 6 10 41 31 +10 48 5 Ashland Common 30 15 2 13 34 29 +5 47 6 Waldster Junction FC 30 13 6 11 30 33 −3 45 7 Brimton FC 30 12 8 10 37 40 −3 44 8 Lunselbury FC 30 10 12 8 38 35 +3 42 9 Queens FC 30 10 12 8 45 45 0 42 10 Dame Roundabout FC 30 10 10 10 33 33 0 40 11 Sutsyridge FC 30 9 9 12 33 34 −1 36 12 Baxlee Blues 30 9 9 12 30 35 −5 36 13 Hollytree FC 30 8 11 11 32 40 −8 35 R 14 FC North Orbital 30 9 5 16 34 41 −7 32 R 15 Lukes Wood FC 30 6 10 14 20 36 −16 28 R 16 Malter End FC 30 7 6 17 28 36 −8 27 R EA1 Promotion Playoffs Waldster Junction FC 0–1 Galling Rangers 7AU Galling Rangers 7AU 0–0 Waldster Junction FC Ashland Common 2–0 Calhead Rangers FC Calhead Rangers FC 0–0 Ashland Common Galling Rangers 7AU 0–0 Calhead Rangers FC (1–0 AET) Northern Alliance D2 Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Tadcester Wood FC 30 17 9 4 41 14 +27 60 P 2 Barmount FC 30 16 7 7 52 16 +36 55 P 3 Bridles End FC 30 16 4 10 38 19 +19 52 4 Parmo-by-Hadford FC 30 15 7 8 36 29 +7 52 5 Phinmall Wood FC 30 15 6 9 36 27 +9 51 6 Binclestead Wood Common FC 30 15 5 10 36 26 +10 50 7 Prince Street Wanderers 30 14 7 9 45 29 +16 49 8 Water Gardens FC 30 12 8 10 32 33 −1 44 9 Kingsley Green FC 30 13 1 16 33 46 −13 40 10 Hilt Wood FC 30 11 7 12 20 33 −13 40 11 Bavingtor Airport FC 30 9 8 13 32 33 −1 35 12 Hadford Bypass FC 30 9 7 14 27 33 −6 34 13 Billingwax Browns 30 8 10 12 23 36 −13 34 14 Torstermound FC 30 8 8 14 21 35 −14 32 15 Northrise FC 30 7 8 15 15 38 −23 29 R 16 Palace Wood Village FC 30 3 2 25 16 56 −40 11 R NA2 Promotion Playoffs Phinmall Wood FC 1–2 Barmount FC Barmount FC 2–0 Phinmall Wood FC Parmo-by-Hadford FC 0–2 Bridles End FC Bridles End FC 7–0 Parmo-by-Hadford FC Barmount FC 2–0 Bridles End FC Western Alliance D2 Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Presmoor Bridge Railway FC 30 17 5 8 37 25 +12 56 P 2 Havermilly Hanger FC 30 15 7 8 42 20 +22 52 P 3 St Astons Athletic 30 16 4 10 35 25 +10 52 4 St Astons Abbey and Cathedral 30 14 9 7 31 17 +14 51 5 FC The Rise 30 14 7 9 48 38 +10 49 6 Saltearthbury FC 30 14 4 12 39 32 +7 46 7 Bridge Hill FC 30 13 6 11 39 25 +14 45 8 Carston Butterflies 30 13 6 11 36 44 −8 45 9 Saxford FC 30 11 8 11 36 29 +7 41 10 Beachtree Rangers FC 30 11 8 11 30 32 −2 41 11 Gerald's Oak FC 30 11 7 12 29 35 −6 40 12 Presmoor Bridge AFC 30 10 9 11 28 36 −8 39 13 Capton Street FC 30 9 7 14 26 36 −10 34 14 Oakwoods FC 30 9 5 16 24 39 −15 32 15 Booker Park FC 30 6 9 15 21 38 −17 27 R 16 Northlee United FC 30 5 3 22 20 50 −30 18 R WA2 Promotion Playoffs FC The Rise 0–2 Havermilly Hanger FC Havermilly Hanger FC 2–1 FC The Rise St Astons Abbey and Cathedral 1–2 St Astons Athletic St Astons Athletic 0–0 St Astons Abbey and Cathedral Havermilly Hanger FC 3–0 St Astons Athletic Southern Alliance D2 Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Waldster Waterfields 30 20 9 1 55 17 +38 69 P 2 Hillsight Bridge FC 30 18 7 5 44 16 +28 61 P 3 Ifleii FC 30 18 6 6 43 24 +19 60 4 Marely Park FC 30 15 8 7 36 24 +12 53 5 Waldster Harriers FC 30 15 7 8 34 21 +13 52 6 Midlandsee FC 30 13 10 7 37 28 +9 49 7 Kings FC 30 11 12 7 26 20 +6 45 8 Queens Road FC 30 12 6 12 29 23 +6 42 9 Cardinal Cross FC 30 12 5 13 25 28 −3 41 10 UA North Waldster 30 7 10 13 26 35 −9 31 11 Great Fuzzbrooke Wood 30 7 10 13 25 36 −11 31 12 Digsbury FC 30 8 7 15 25 41 −16 31 13 Courtiers FC 30 9 3 18 23 47 −24 30 14 Kingsland FC 30 6 9 15 31 52 −21 27 15 Garden Ash FC 30 5 5 20 22 48 −26 20 R 16 West Waldster Warriors 30 3 8 19 16 37 −21 17 R SA2 Promotion Playoffs Waldster Harriers FC 1–1 Hillsight Bridge FC Hillsight Bridge FC 2–0 Waldster Harriers FC Marely Park FC 1–0 Ifleii FC Ifleii FC 1–1 Marely Park FC Hillsight Bridge FC 1–1 Marely Park FC (1–1 AET) (4–2 pen.) Eastern Alliance D2 Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Rumlington Lakes FC 30 15 11 4 38 22 +16 56 P 2 Crimblewood Park FC 30 16 7 7 36 20 +16 55 P 3 Buchraston Arches FC 30 15 6 9 36 23 +13 51 4 Chesinglea Village FC 30 16 3 11 32 31 +1 51 5 Pranglen End FC 30 14 6 10 37 30 +7 48 6 Capton Valley FC 30 14 6 10 32 29 +3 48 7 Pranglers Crouch FC 30 13 7 10 34 27 +7 46 8 Loxthorpe Green FC 30 12 10 8 26 21 +5 46 9 Narrock Community Sports 30 12 8 10 28 26 +2 44 10 Aston Road FC 30 12 7 11 29 25 +4 43 11 Fullertons FC 30 11 5 14 28 28 0 38 12 Whisbeleng Woods FC 30 7 11 12 27 24 +3 32 13 FC Locksmith 30 8 5 17 24 34 −10 29 14 Capton Heath Village FC 30 8 5 17 22 48 −26 29 15 Buchraston Mill FC 30 6 9 15 25 38 −13 27 R 16 Chalk Hill FC 30 4 8 18 14 42 −28 20 R EA2 Promotion Playoffs Pranglen End FC 1–2 Crimblewood Park FC Crimblewood Park FC 4–0 Pranglen End FC Chesinglea Village FC 2–1 Buchraston Arches FC Buchraston Arches FC 0–1 Chesinglea Village FC Crimblewood Park FC 0–0 Chesinglea Village FC (1–1 AET) (5–4 pen.)

Code: Select all: Flavovespia Gold Cup Preliminary Round 1 (NA2) Bridles End FC 1–2 (NA2) Barmount FC (SASL) FC Faylake 2–1 (SASL) FC Victoria (HL) Gary Hill Rovers FC 0–1 (NA2) Tadcester Wood FC (NA2) Water Gardens FC 4–1 (HL) Stonelake Social Club (NA2) Parmo-by-Hadford FC 3–0 (NA2) Hilt Wood FC (HL) FC Chasers 1–4 (NA2) Northrise FC (NA2) Prince Street Wanderers 1–0 (HL) Blackbirds Moor (SASL) St Astons Sports & Social Club 1–1 (HL) Heartwood Forest FC (2–1 AET) (HL) Frostbrook Mills 1–2 (NA2) Phinmall Wood FC (NA2) Kingsley Green FC 4–0 (NA2) Palace Wood Village FC (SASL) Chadwickbury FC 0–1 (NA2) Billingwax Browns (HL) Walnut End United FC 1–0 (SASL) Rovers FC (St Astons) (SASL) AFC Jovinal Farm 1–2 (NA2) Hadford Bypass FC (SASL) St Astons Hill FC 0–1 (HL) The Chorltons (NA2) Torstermound FC 1–0 (NA2) Bavingtor Airport FC (SASL) Shadowbeach Athletic 2–3 (NA2) Binclestead Wood Common FC (WAD) Needleden FC 0–0 (WAD) Hopford Hawks (0–2 AET) (WA2) Saltearthbury FC 1–0 (WA2) Beachtree Rangers FC (WA2) Saxford FC 2–1 (WHHL) AFC Bears (WHHL) Westwood North FC 4–4 (WA2) Presmoor Bridge AFC (5–4 AET) (WA2) Carston Butterflies 3–1 (WA2) Booker Park FC (WA2) Presmoor Bridge Railway FC 1–1 (WHHL) Ridge FC (2–2 AET) (1–3 pen.) (WA2) Bridge Hill FC 2–0 (WA2) FC The Rise (WAD) The Folly 2–4 (WA2) Havermilly Hanger FC (WHHL) Anot St Peter FC 3–1 (WAD) Williams Farm (WA2) St Astons Abbey and Cathedral 4–0 (WAD) FC Paradise (WA2) St Astons Athletic 2–0 (WAD) Trenton Bottom Sports (WHHL) Dyrham Park FC 3–0 (WAD) Carston Eleven (WA2) Gerald's Oak FC 1–2 (WA2) Capton Street FC (WA2) Oakwoods FC 3–1 (WHHL) Studio FC (WAD) Kimpford FC 2–3 (WHHL) Linvale Town FC (WA2) Northlee United FC 1–0 (WHHL) Peartree Rovers FC (WAL) Galling Heart 1–4 (SA2) Cardinal Cross FC (WAL) Calcio Waldster 2–1 (SA2) Courtiers FC (SA2) Queens Road FC 1–1 (SA2) Ifleii FC (1–1 AET) (5–4 pen.) (WAL) The Rooks 4–2 (LLA) Lunselbury Airfield (LLA) Maishophall Brook 2–0 (LLA) QES FC (WAL) Omega FC 2–2 (SA2) West Waldster Warriors (2–2 AET) (3–5 pen.) (SA2) UA North Waldster 4–2 (LLA) Abbots Park FC (LLA) South Maishop Fields 1–2 (SA2) Great Fuzzbrooke Wood (LLA) Lunsel and Co Factory 2–1 (SA2) Kingsland FC (WAL) Penfold Park FC 3–1 (SA2) Midlandsee FC (WAL) Old Waldsterians 2–0 (LLA) North Mayshop Park (SA2) Digsbury FC 0–2 (SA2) Waldster Harriers FC (SA2) Hillsight Bridge FC 2–0 (WAL) Robin Rovers FC (SA2) Garden Ash FC 1–2 (SA2) Marely Park FC (LLA) Leo Farm FC 1–2 (SA2) Kings FC (WAL) Knucklesford FC 1–2 (SA2) Waldster Waterfields (EA2) Loxthorpe Green FC 4–2 (TRL) Fullertons Social Sports Society (EA2) Chalk Hill FC 3–2 (EA2) Buchraston Arches FC (TRL) Hillfield Brook FC 0–0 (EA2) Whisbeleng Woods FC (0–0 AET) (5–4 pen.) (EAL) Ricky Park FC 0–1 (EAL) Sutsyridge Lane FC (EAL) Butterfield Terminal FC 1–3 (EA2) Pranglen End FC (EAL) FC Rumlington 1–0 (EAL) Butterfield Refinery FC (EA2) Crimblewood Park FC 2–2 (EA2) FC Locksmith (2–2 AET) (4–2 pen.) (EAL) Calhead Recreational 0–0 (EAL) The Little Green FC (2–1 AET) (EA2) Pranglers Crouch FC 2–1 (EA2) Capton Valley FC (EA2) Buchraston Mill FC 2–1 (TRL) Narrock Wood Trading Co. (EAL) Boll Lake Amateur FC 0–1 (EA2) Aston Road FC (EA2) Fullertons FC 3–3 (EA2) Rumlington Lakes FC (3–4 AET) (EA2) Chesinglea Village FC 4–0 (TRL) The Hallhammers FC (TRL) Captonbridge Park FC 0–1 (TRL) Old College FC (EA2) Capton Heath Village FC 0–1 (EA2) Narrock Community Sports (TRL) Loxspring FC 3–2 (TRL) Capton United FC Preliminary Round 2 (HL) The Chorltons 2–3 (NA2) Kingsley Green FC (NA2) Billingwax Browns 2–1 (SASL) FC Faylake (NA2) Binclestead Wood Common FC 2–0 (NA2) Parmo-by-Hadford FC (NA2) Phinmall Wood FC 0–1 (SASL) St Astons Sports & Social Club (NA2) Torstermound FC 1–0 (HL) Walnut End United FC (NA2) Prince Street Wanderers 0–1 (NA2) Barmount FC (NA2) Tadcester Wood FC 1–0 (NA2) Northrise FC (NA2) Water Gardens FC 3–0 (NA2) Hadford Bypass FC (WAD) Hopford Hawks 1–2 (WA2) Northlee United FC (WA2) St Astons Abbey and Cathedral 1–0 (WHHL) Linvale Town FC (WHHL) Dyrham Park FC 1–1 (WA2) Saltearthbury FC (1–1 AET) (4–2 pen.) (WHHL) Anot St Peter FC 2–3 (WHHL) Ridge FC (WA2) Saxford FC 2–2 (WHHL) Westwood North FC (2–3 AET) (WA2) Oakwoods FC 2–0 (WA2) Carston Butterflies (WA2) Havermilly Hanger FC 2–1 (WA2) Capton Street FC (WA2) St Astons Athletic 1–1 (WA2) Bridge Hill FC (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.) (WAL) Calcio Waldster 3–1 (WAL) The Rooks (SA2) West Waldster Warriors 0–0 (SA2) Great Fuzzbrooke Wood (1–0 AET) (LLA) Lunsel and Co Factory 3–2 (WAL) Old Waldsterians (SA2) UA North Waldster 1–1 (SA2) Queens Road FC (1–1 AET) (3–4 pen.) (SA2) Kings FC 0–0 (SA2) Marely Park FC (0–0 AET) (4–3 pen.) (SA2) Waldster Waterfields 3–1 (SA2) Cardinal Cross FC (LLA) Maishophall Brook 0–2 (SA2) Hillsight Bridge FC (SA2) Waldster Harriers FC 5–1 (WAL) Penfold Park FC (EAL) Calhead Recreational 2–2 (EAL) Sutsyridge Lane FC (2–4 AET) (EA2) Narrock Community Sports 2–0 (TRL) Hillfield Brook FC (EA2) Chesinglea Village FC 0–0 (EA2) Rumlington Lakes FC (1–1 AET) (5–6 pen.) (EA2) Crimblewood Park FC 0–0 (EA2) Aston Road FC (1–1 AET) (4–2 pen.) (EA2) Pranglers Crouch FC 3–0 (EA2) Chalk Hill FC (TRL) Old College FC 1–0 (EA2) Buchraston Mill FC (EA2) Loxthorpe Green FC 2–1 (EAL) FC Rumlington (EA2) Pranglen End FC 1–1 (TRL) Loxspring FC (2–2 AET) (3–4 pen.) Preliminary Round 3 (WA1) Addenleigh Rangers FC 2–3 (WA1) Old Saints FC (WA1) Hadford Dacorum FC 3–1 (WA2) Northlee United FC (NA2) Water Gardens FC 0–1 (WA1) Magic Roundabout FC (WHHL) Ridge FC 0–3 (WA1) Flawthrope FC (WA2) Havermilly Hanger FC 0–1 (WA1) Westwood FC (SASL) St Astons Sports & Social Club 2–2 (WA1) Ellerstone Aerodrome (2–3 AET) (WHHL) Dyrham Park FC 1–3 (WA1) Pykrot End FC (NA2) Billingwax Browns 1–5 (WA1) St Astons Striders FC (WA1) Hadford Industrial United 1–1 (WA2) St Astons Athletic (3–1 AET) (NA2) Barmount FC 4–0 (WHHL) Westwood North FC (WA1) Hadford Aerodrome 2–0 (NA2) Tadcester Wood FC (WA1) Walbert Street FC 3–0 (NA2) Torstermound FC (NA2) Binclestead Wood Common FC 2–4 (WA1) Floombury United FC (WA1) Combury FC 0–1 (NA2) Kingsley Green FC (WA2) St Astons Abbey and Cathedral 0–1 (WA1) Woodlee Farm (WA2) Oakwoods FC 1–3 (WA1) Ellerstone United FC (EA1) Lunselbury FC 2–2 (EA1) Waldster Junction FC (4–2 AET) (EA1) Calhead Rangers FC 2–1 (SA2) Queens Road FC (EA2) Pranglers Crouch FC 0–1 (EA1) Henhaven Palace FC (EA1) Camber Place FC 3–1 (EA2) Crimblewood Park FC (EA2) Loxthorpe Green FC 0–0 (EA2) Rumlington Lakes FC (0–1 AET) (LLA) Lunsel and Co Factory 0–1 (EA1) Lukes Wood FC (EA1) Dame Roundabout FC 2–0 (EA1) Hollytree FC (EA1) Ashland Common 0–1 (EA1) Sutsyridge FC (TRL) Old College FC 1–4 (EA1) Galling Rangers 7AU (EA1) Baxlee Blues 1–2 (SA2) Waldster Waterfields (EA1) Malter End FC 2–3 (EA2) Narrock Community Sports (EA1) Brimton FC 0–0 (SA2) Waldster Harriers FC (1–0 AET) (SA2) Hillsight Bridge FC 1–0 (WAL) Calcio Waldster (SA2) West Waldster Warriors 0–3 (SA2) Kings FC (EA1) FC North Orbital 4–1 (TRL) Loxspring FC (EA1) Queens FC 2–2 (EAL) Sutsyridge Lane FC (2–3 AET) Round 1 (EL) Leabury FC 2–1 (EA1) Lunselbury FC (WL) Claychester FC 3–3 (WA1) Hadford Industrial United (5–3 AET) (WL) Havermilly FC 2–1 (EA1) FC North Orbital (EA2) Narrock Community Sports 1–1 (EL) FC North Waldster (1–3 AET) (WL) Redthwaite Rangers FC 2–0 (WA1) Walbert Street FC (EL) Woodbrook FC 4–1 (WA1) Flawthrope FC (WL) South Hadford United 1–2 (WL) Vitarias Legion (WA1) Hadford Aerodrome 3–1 (SA2) Kings FC (WL) Boleland Wood Town FC 0–1 (EL) Oxwich Wood FC (EL) Alstone FC 1–0 (EA1) Lukes Wood FC (EL) Frostbrook Rovers FC 1–4 (WL) Caffchin FC (WA1) Woodlee Farm 2–1 (EA1) Calhead Rangers FC (EA1) Brimton FC 1–5 (EL) Johns Park FC (WA1) Hadford Dacorum FC 1–1 (EA1) Galling Rangers 7AU (3–2 AET) (SA2) Waldster Waterfields 1–0 (WA1) Old Saints FC (EL) Boll Lake Mariners FC 3–0 (WL) Melcave Meerkats (EL) Gann FC 2–1 (EA1) Sutsyridge FC (EA1) Dame Roundabout FC 1–1 (WL) Sandneston Rovers FC (1–2 AET) (WL) Saltearth FC 3–0 (SA2) Hillsight Bridge FC (WA1) Pykrot End FC 2–1 (WA1) St Astons Striders FC (WL) Panford FC 3–1 (WL) Maltsterbrack FC (EL) Buchraston Heath FC 0–0 (EL) Locksmith-on-Carron FC (0–0 AET) (4–3 pen.) (WA1) Ellerstone United FC 1–0 (EL) Radstye Rangers FC (NA2) Kingsley Green FC 0–0 (WL) Langpool Capton FC (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.) (WA1) Ellerstone Aerodrome 1–0 (EL) Highhadford FC (WL) Whittlesbury Wanderers 4–0 (EA1) Henhaven Palace FC (WA1) Magic Roundabout FC 4–4 (NA2) Barmount FC (4–4 AET) (4–3 pen.) (EL) Oxwich FC 1–0 (WL) Napsmouth FC (WL) Old Marthorpe FC 4–0 (EA2) Rumlington Lakes FC (EL) Captonbridge Rangers FC 1–1 (WA1) Westwood FC (1–2 AET) (EL) Henhaven Beachside 2–2 (EA1) Camber Place FC (3–3 AET) (3–4 pen.) (WA1) Floombury United FC 1–0 (EAL) Sutsyridge Lane FC Round 2 (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–1 (CL) Cartswood FC (SL) Sporting Towerhaite 2–0 (EA1) Camber Place FC (WL) Sandneston Rovers FC 0–1 (CL) Abbots Lunsel FC (SL) Stanmorn FC 3–0 (EL) Boll Lake Mariners FC (SA2) Waldster Waterfields 0–1 (CL) North Mayshop FC (WL) Panford FC 0–1 (WL) Redthwaite Rangers FC (CL) Vale FC 0–0 (WL) Old Marthorpe FC (0–1 AET) (WL) Caffchin FC 1–0 (WL) Whittlesbury Wanderers (EL) Leabury FC 2–1 (EL) FC North Waldster (SL) Waldster FC 1–0 (WA1) Magic Roundabout FC (WL) Havermilly FC 2–0 (EL) Johns Park FC (SL) Carston Green FC 4–1 (SL) Kings Lunsel FC (CL) Butterfield Rovers FC 2–3 (SL) South Maishop FC (WL) Saltearth FC 0–1 (EL) Gann FC (CL) Millsea FC 3–2 (WA1) Hadford Dacorum FC (WA1) Ellerstone United FC 1–1 (CL) Hopford FC (2–1 AET) (EL) Buchraston Heath FC 1–1 (WA1) Ellerstone Aerodrome (3–1 AET) (EL) Alstone FC 2–1 (CL) Rumlington Rovers FC (SL) St Astons City FC 3–1 (EL) Oxwich FC (WA1) Pykrot End FC 0–3 (CL) Guildwell Football (SL) Loxthorpe Rovers FC 2–0 (WL) Vitarias Legion (WL) Langpool Capton FC 4–0 (WA1) Hadford Aerodrome (WA1) Woodlee Farm 0–1 (SL) Apsbrooke FC (CL) Capton Club 4–4 (CL) Buchraston FC (4–4 AET) (1–3 pen.) (EL) Woodbrook FC 3–1 (WA1) Floombury United FC (WL) Claychester FC 2–2 (WA1) Westwood FC (2–2 AET) (3–4 pen.) (SL) Binclestead Wood FC 2–3 (SL) Marthorpe City FC (CL) Slaton FC 1–4 (CL) Croxlich FC (CL) Henhaven Islanders FC 0–1 (SL) Batchingtonwood Rovers FC (SL) Bavingtor FC 2–1 (SL) Westwood Garden City FC (CL) Nailwood Mills FC 1–2 (SL) Hadford Hill FC (CL) Narrock Wood United FC 2–0 (EL) Oxwich Wood FC Round 3 (SL) South Maishop FC 1–0 (SL) Sporting Towerhaite (SL) Waldster FC 0–0 (EL) Woodbrook FC (2–0 AET) (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC 1–0 (CL) Croxlich FC (WA1) Westwood FC 0–2 (CL) Narrock Wood United FC (SL) Bavingtor FC 3–2 (WA1) Ellerstone United FC (SL) St Astons City FC 4–0 (SL) Batchingtonwood Rovers FC (CL) Millsea FC 0–0 (EL) Gann FC (0–1 AET) (CL) Buchraston FC 1–0 (EL) Buchraston Heath FC (SL) Marthorpe City FC 2–1 (SL) Stanmorn FC (SL) Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0–1 (EL) Alstone FC (EL) Leabury FC 0–5 (CL) Guildwell Football (SL) Apsbrooke FC 2–0 (WL) Havermilly FC (SL) Hadford Hill FC 5–1 (WL) Caffchin FC (WL) Old Marthorpe FC 3–4 (SL) Carston Green FC (WL) Redthwaite Rangers FC 1–1 (CL) North Mayshop FC (1–1 AET) (6–7 pen.) (CL) Abbots Lunsel FC 4–2 (WL) Langpool Capton FC Round 4 (SL) Hadford Hill FC 0–2 (SL) Waldster FC (EL) Alstone FC 0–2 (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC (SL) South Maishop FC 4–1 (SL) Apsbrooke FC (CL) Buchraston FC 0–0 (CL) Narrock Wood United FC (0–1 AET) (SL) Bavingtor FC 3–0 (CL) Abbots Lunsel FC (SL) Marthorpe City FC 1–0 (SL) St Astons City FC (CL) North Mayshop FC 0–2 (SL) Carston Green FC (CL) Guildwell Football 1–2 (EL) Gann FC Quarter Finals (SL) Marthorpe City FC 2–1 (SL) South Maishop FC (SL) Carston Green FC 1–2 (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC (EL) Gann FC 4–4 (SL) Waldster FC (4–4 AET) (2–3 pen.) (SL) Bavingtor FC 2–1 (CL) Narrock Wood United FC Semi Finals (SL) Marthorpe City FC 0–2 (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC (SL) Bavingtor FC 0–0 (SL) Waldster FC (1–0 AET) Final (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC 1–2 (SL) Bavingtor FC League Cup Round 1 (WL) Melcave Meerkats 0–1 (CL) Slaton FC (EL) Gann FC 0–4 (SL) Apsbrooke FC (WL) Langpool Capton FC 4–3 (CL) Hopford FC (WL) Sandneston Rovers FC 0–2 (CL) Vale FC (EL) Henhaven Beachside 0–1 (CL) Narrock Wood United FC (WL) Maltsterbrack FC 0–0 (SL) Marthorpe City FC (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.) (WL) Havermilly FC 0–2 (SL) Carston Green FC (EL) Oxwich Wood FC 1–1 (CL) Nailwood Mills FC (1–2 AET) (EL) Frostbrook Rovers FC 0–0 (CL) Cartswood FC (0–0 AET) (3–2 pen.) (EL) Alstone FC 1–3 (CL) Millsea FC (WL) Caffchin FC 1–2 (SL) St Astons City FC (WL) Old Marthorpe FC 0–2 (SL) Sporting Towerhaite (EL) Oxwich FC 2–4 (SL) Binclestead Wood FC (EL) Johns Park FC 0–1 (SL) Waldster FC (WL) Whittlesbury Wanderers 0–1 (SL) Loxthorpe Rovers FC (WL) Panford FC 2–3 (CL) Henhaven Islanders FC (WL) Boleland Wood Town FC 1–0 (CL) North Mayshop FC (WL) Vitarias Legion 1–2 (SL) Westwood Garden City FC (EL) Radstye Rangers FC 3–6 (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC (EL) Captonbridge Rangers FC 0–0 (CL) Croxlich FC (0–0 AET) (3–2 pen.) (WL) Napsmouth FC 0–1 (SL) South Maishop FC (WL) Saltearth FC 1–1 (CL) Rumlington Rovers FC (1–3 AET) (EL) Highhadford FC 0–0 (CL) Butterfield Rovers FC (0–0 AET) (4–5 pen.) (EL) Boll Lake Mariners FC 0–3 (SL) Hadford Hill FC (EL) FC North Waldster 0–1 (SL) Batchingtonwood Rovers FC (WL) Redthwaite Rangers FC 0–1 (SL) Bavingtor FC (EL) Leabury FC 1–2 (CL) Guildwell Football (WL) Claychester FC 2–3 (CL) Buchraston FC (EL) Locksmith-on-Carron FC 0–1 (SL) Kings Lunsel FC (WL) South Hadford United 0–2 (SL) Stanmorn FC (EL) Woodbrook FC 2–3 (CL) Capton Club (EL) Buchraston Heath FC 0–2 (CL) Abbots Lunsel FC Round 2 (SL) Sporting Towerhaite 0–1 (SL) South Maishop FC (SL) St Astons City FC 1–2 (SL) Westwood Garden City FC (SL) Stanmorn FC 0–1 (SL) Hadford Hill FC (CL) Nailwood Mills FC 1–1 (CL) Henhaven Islanders FC (1–1 AET) (4–2 pen.) (CL) Millsea FC 1–2 (EL) Frostbrook Rovers FC (SL) Carston Green FC 7–4 (CL) Buchraston FC (CL) Butterfield Rovers FC 1–2 (SL) Loxthorpe Rovers FC (SL) Binclestead Wood FC 0–0 (CL) Abbots Lunsel FC (1–0 AET) (SL) Marthorpe City FC 1–0 (SL) Waldster FC (CL) Rumlington Rovers FC 5–0 (WL) Boleland Wood Town FC (CL) Guildwell Football 0–0 (SL) Bavingtor FC (0–1 AET) (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC 7–3 (CL) Slaton FC (CL) Vale FC 4–2 (SL) Batchingtonwood Rovers FC (SL) Kings Lunsel FC 0–0 (SL) Apsbrooke FC (1–0 AET) (CL) Capton Club 1–1 (CL) Narrock Wood United FC (1–2 AET) (WL) Langpool Capton FC 0–0 (EL) Captonbridge Rangers FC (2–0 AET) Round 3 (CL) Vale FC 1–3 (SL) Kings Lunsel FC (SL) South Maishop FC 0–0 (CL) Nailwood Mills FC (0–0 AET) (4–5 pen.) (SL) Binclestead Wood FC 5–3 (SL) Westwood Garden City FC (EL) Frostbrook Rovers FC 0–1 (SL) Hadford Hill FC (SL) Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0–0 (SL) Carston Green FC (2–1 AET) (CL) Narrock Wood United FC 0–1 (SL) Bavingtor FC (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC 0–0 (CL) Rumlington Rovers FC (0–0 AET) (3–2 pen.) (SL) Marthorpe City FC 2–1 (WL) Langpool Capton FC Quarter Finals (SL) Bavingtor FC 1–1 (SL) Hadford Hill FC (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.) (CL) Nailwood Mills FC 0–1 (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC (SL) Marthorpe City FC 3–2 (SL) Loxthorpe Rovers FC (SL) Kings Lunsel FC 4–1 (SL) Binclestead Wood FC Semi Finals (SL) Kings Lunsel FC 2–1 (SL) Bavingtor FC (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–0 (SL) Marthorpe City FC Final (SL) Kings Lunsel FC 6–2 (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC Alliance Shield Northern Round 1 (NA2) Kingsley Green FC 0–0 (NA2) Hadford Bypass FC (3–0 AET) (NA2) Water Gardens FC 2–0 (NA2) Billingwax Browns (NA2) Barmount FC 2–1 (NA2) Binclestead Wood Common FC (NA2) Bavingtor Airport FC 4–2 (NA2) Palace Wood Village FC (NA2) Hilt Wood FC 2–1 (NA2) Phinmall Wood FC (NA2) Bridles End FC 1–0 (NA2) Prince Street Wanderers (NA2) Tadcester Wood FC 1–0 (NA2) Northrise FC (NA2) Torstermound FC 3–3 (NA2) Parmo-by-Hadford FC (4–3 AET) Western Round 1 (WA2) St Astons Abbey and Cathedral 2–3 (WA2) Oakwoods FC (WA2) FC The Rise 3–1 (WA2) Beachtree Rangers FC (WA2) Presmoor Bridge AFC 3–3 (WA2) Presmoor Bridge Railway FC (3–3 AET) (4–3 pen.) (WA2) Gerald's Oak FC 1–0 (WA2) Saltearthbury FC (WA2) Booker Park FC 0–1 (WA2) St Astons Athletic (WA2) Carston Butterflies 1–0 (WA2) Northlee United FC (WA2) Havermilly Hanger FC 1–0 (WA2) Capton Street FC (WA2) Bridge Hill FC 1–0 (WA2) Saxford FC Southern Round 1 (SA2) Kingsland FC 1–1 (SA2) Waldster Harriers FC (1–1 AET) (4–2 pen.) (SA2) Cardinal Cross FC 1–1 (SA2) Courtiers FC (2–2 AET) (3–4 pen.) (SA2) Queens Road FC 2–1 (SA2) Digsbury FC (SA2) UA North Waldster 0–1 (SA2) Waldster Waterfields (SA2) Midlandsee FC 0–2 (SA2) Kings FC (SA2) Ifleii FC 3–0 (SA2) West Waldster Warriors (SA2) Garden Ash FC 1–2 (SA2) Marely Park FC (SA2) Great Fuzzbrooke Wood 0–1 (SA2) Hillsight Bridge FC Eastern Round 1 (EA2) Chalk Hill FC 0–3 (EA2) Narrock Community Sports (EA2) Pranglen End FC 2–0 (EA2) Pranglers Crouch FC (EA2) Loxthorpe Green FC 3–0 (EA2) Capton Valley FC (EA2) Chesinglea Village FC 3–4 (EA2) Buchraston Mill FC (EA2) Rumlington Lakes FC 3–1 (EA2) FC Locksmith (EA2) Aston Road FC 0–1 (EA2) Fullertons FC (EA2) Capton Heath Village FC 0–0 (EA2) Buchraston Arches FC (2–0 AET) (EA2) Crimblewood Park FC 3–1 (EA2) Whisbeleng Woods FC Western Round 2 (WA2) Presmoor Bridge AFC 2–3 (WA1) Hadford Dacorum FC (NA2) Barmount FC 3–3 (WA1) Magic Roundabout FC (3–4 AET) (WA2) Havermilly Hanger FC 0–2 (WA1) Woodlee Farm (NA2) Bridles End FC 3–1 (WA1) Flawthrope FC (NA2) Kingsley Green FC 0–3 (WA1) St Astons Striders FC (NA2) Bavingtor Airport FC 0–1 (WA1) Ellerstone Aerodrome (NA2) Hilt Wood FC 0–1 (WA1) Hadford Industrial United (WA2) St Astons Athletic 1–4 (WA1) Old Saints FC (NA2) Torstermound FC 0–1 (WA1) Floombury United FC (WA2) Gerald's Oak FC 2–3 (WA1) Addenleigh Rangers FC (WA2) Carston Butterflies 0–3 (WA1) Westwood FC (NA2) Water Gardens FC 2–1 (WA1) Combury FC (WA2) Oakwoods FC 1–2 (WA1) Hadford Aerodrome (WA2) FC The Rise 6–5 (WA1) Pykrot End FC (NA2) Tadcester Wood FC 2–2 (WA1) Ellerstone United FC (3–2 AET) (WA2) Bridge Hill FC 2–3 (WA1) Walbert Street FC Eastern Round 2 (EA2) Fullertons FC 4–2 (EA1) Hollytree FC (EA2) Capton Heath Village FC 2–3 (EA1) Queens FC (SA2) Marely Park FC 0–1 (EA1) Henhaven Palace FC (EA2) Rumlington Lakes FC 0–1 (EA1) Brimton FC (EA2) Narrock Community Sports 3–3 (EA1) Camber Place FC (3–4 AET) (SA2) Kingsland FC 3–1 (EA1) Waldster Junction FC (EA2) Loxthorpe Green FC 1–1 (EA1) Dame Roundabout FC (1–1 AET) (6–5 pen.) (EA2) Crimblewood Park FC 2–0 (EA1) Lunselbury FC (SA2) Ifleii FC 1–4 (EA1) Ashland Common (SA2) Queens Road FC 1–4 (EA1) Sutsyridge FC (SA2) Kings FC 3–2 (EA1) FC North Orbital (EA2) Buchraston Mill FC 3–3 (EA1) Malter End FC (3–4 AET) (SA2) Waldster Waterfields 2–0 (EA1) Lukes Wood FC (SA2) Courtiers FC 1–1 (EA1) Calhead Rangers FC (1–2 AET) (SA2) Hillsight Bridge FC 0–2 (EA1) Galling Rangers 7AU (EA2) Pranglen End FC 1–2 (EA1) Baxlee Blues Western Round 3 (WA1) Woodlee Farm 3–2 (WA1) Walbert Street FC (WA1) Westwood FC 1–1 (WA1) Addenleigh Rangers FC (1–1 AET) (6–5 pen.) (NA2) Bridles End FC 5–2 (NA2) Tadcester Wood FC (WA1) Magic Roundabout FC 5–2 (WA1) Ellerstone Aerodrome (WA2) FC The Rise 2–2 (WA1) Old Saints FC (2–2 AET) (2–4 pen.) (WA1) Hadford Industrial United 0–0 (WA1) Floombury United FC (0–1 AET) (WA1) Hadford Aerodrome 2–0 (WA1) St Astons Striders FC (WA1) Hadford Dacorum FC 0–1 (NA2) Water Gardens FC Eastern Round 3 (EA1) Galling Rangers 7AU 2–2 (EA1) Calhead Rangers FC (3–2 AET) (SA2) Kings FC 1–1 (EA1) Sutsyridge FC (2–2 AET) (3–4 pen.) (EA1) Brimton FC 3–2 (EA1) Malter End FC (EA1) Baxlee Blues 4–0 (SA2) Kingsland FC (EA2) Loxthorpe Green FC 2–2 (EA1) Camber Place FC (3–2 AET) (EA2) Crimblewood Park FC 4–0 (SA2) Waldster Waterfields (EA2) Fullertons FC 1–4 (EA1) Henhaven Palace FC (EA1) Queens FC 0–0 (EA1) Ashland Common (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.) Western Quarter Finals (WA1) Westwood FC 1–0 (WA1) Hadford Aerodrome (WA1) Magic Roundabout FC 3–0 (NA2) Water Gardens FC (WA1) Floombury United FC 1–0 (WA1) Woodlee Farm (NA2) Bridles End FC 0–1 (WA1) Old Saints FC Eastern Quarter Finals (EA1) Baxlee Blues 4–2 (EA1) Sutsyridge FC (EA1) Henhaven Palace FC 3–3 (EA1) Galling Rangers 7AU (3–3 AET) (4–3 pen.) (EA2) Loxthorpe Green FC 2–3 (EA1) Brimton FC (EA2) Crimblewood Park FC 0–0 (EA1) Ashland Common (1–0 AET) Western Semi Finals (WA1) Magic Roundabout FC 2–2 (WA1) Westwood FC (2–2 AET) (1–3 pen.) (WA1) Floombury United FC 2–0 (WA1) Old Saints FC Eastern Semi Finals (EA1) Baxlee Blues 2–2 (EA2) Crimblewood Park FC (4–2 AET) (EA1) Brimton FC 3–2 (EA1) Henhaven Palace FC Western Final (WA1) Floombury United FC 0–1 (WA1) Westwood FC Eastern Final (EA1) Brimton FC 2–2 (EA1) Baxlee Blues (3–2 AET) Final (WA1) Westwood FC 2–2 (EA1) Brimton FC (2–2 AET) (4–2 pen.)

by **Flavovespia** » Fri May 08, 2020 9:01 am

Super League Season 29

Preview

Butterfield Rovers FC

Overview: Butterfield is a city right in the north east of Flavovespia. The origins of Butterfield Rovers began initially in 70BU, when Butterfield Independent began. They were a team who represented the town of Butterfield, as opposed to Baxlee-Butterfield, who represented the (at the time) two town within the city/region known as Butterfield. Butterfield Independent reformed in 66BU as Butterfield Rovers FC.

In the modern era they’ve spent plenty of times in the Super League, but their 19AU Flavovespia Gold Cup win has been their only major trophy. A 2nd and 3rd in 21AU and 22AU respectively did follow that, but the club have declined a bit in this decade. However, despite a somewhat yo-yo reputation, they are a team with plenty of knowledge of this level.

Last Season: Despite hopes of going up automatically, they weren’t in the best of form at times, and could only reach 4th. They did just enough to get through the play off semi finals against Henhaven Islanders, before inflicting a 2nd playoff final defeat in a row on Guildwell Football, to return to the Super League after just one season in the second tier. Out in Round 2 of both cup competitions, albeit to Super League opposition.

Kit: An orange home shirt, but with a black and white down the sleeves, with a small gradient fade and an angled approach. A design that does pacify the “black vs white” argument somewhat, although the white shorts win out as the home shorts, albeit paired with black socks. The away kit is a quite clever complete colour inversion of the home kit, with a blue body and the white and black inverted.

Transfers:

In:
Max Watson 34 CF Batch B'field £3.5m
Gerard Gaffney 33 CM CarstonG B'field £3.5m
Michael McGowan 25 CM Smaishop B'field £3m
John Durkin 32 CF St Astons B'field £3m
Erroll Simpson 35 CB CarstonG B'field £0m
Daniel Crosland 23 CDM HadfordH B'field £0m
Lee Dickinson 33 LM A'brooke B'field £0m
James Pollitt 19 CF Youth B’Field
Nathan Crewe 16 GK Youth B’Field

Out:
Jason Harris 37 CF B’Field Retired

Squad: Logan Shaw will most likely continue to be the man between the posts for Butterfield Rovers. However promising talent Nathan Crewe could put pressure on Richard Woolley for the backup keeper role.
Mohammad Siddique and Ian Wallace were key signings in 28AU, helping Butterfield Rovers back to the Super League. Jonathan White and Bradley Seymour will likely join them at the back. New signing Erroll Simpson will likely play some part in rotation, but maybe not as a full starter.
Lee Dickinson will likely be the starter in left midfield, with Justine Gee unlikely to have many more games left in the tank at 38. One of the new signings, Gerard Gaffney or Michael McGowan will likely join Anthony Crouch in the middle of the park, with Apostolos Antoniou on the wing. Daniel Crosland may get chances as he looks to revive his career after release from Hadford Hill.
Up front, Gary Watson looks set to be joined by his brother Max Watson. The Batchingtonwood Rovers fan favourite said his goodbyes after Butterfield offered £3.5m, a fair fee for a 34 year old. John Durkin and Anthony Johnson look set to be the rotation options up front

Likely Starting XI: (4-4-2) Shaw, Siddique-Wallace-White-Seymour, Dickinson-McGowan-Crouch-Antoniou, G.Watson-M.Watson

Prediction:
Winners: 1%
Challenger’s Cup: 0%
CL+CC: 1%
5th-13th: 72%
Top Half: 19%
Bottom Half: 81%
Relegated: 27%
Statistically they’re in a relatively good position for a newly promoted side. Their experience and squad means they’re only given 27% odds of not staying up. However they’re not looking likely to challenge for a top half position this season, only a 19% chance according to our models. Somewhat interestingly, they have a projected 1% chance of winning it all. It sounds crazy, but Bavingtor have done it before from a similar position.

Croxlich FC

Overview: One of the older teams by Flavovespian standards, they formed in 72BU as Croxlich FC. Founding members of various tournaments over the years including the Eastern Alliance and the Inter City Cup. However they were a relatively small team back in the classic era, with the exception of a successful run in the United & Eastern Alliance during the split.

Since the modern era, they’re been something of a perennial yo-yo club between the top two tiers. They’ve never quite made a solid run of several seasons in the Super League. Conversely, relegation down to the third tier has never been a major concern of theirs, despite the struggles some clubs seen as larger than them have had.

Last Season: They went into the final Matchday of the season knowing a win would be enough to take them back to the Super League. They duly delivered and have made an immediate bounce back, alongside Butterfield Rovers and Vale, somewhat disappointingly to the neutrals. They suffered an upset in Round 1 of the League Cup to Captonbridge Rangers, but in the Flavovespia Gold Cup made it to the third round before elimination by Langmere Green Rovers

Kit: A twist on an old classic design is brought back. The navy blue diagonal chest pattern returns on a laser blue body, but this time it’s broken up by diagonals in the opposite direction. The kit is paired up with laser blue shorts and socks with a splash of dark blue trim. The all white away kit from last year is rolled over to this year, somewhat disappointingly to fans, giving the side the uncommon separate template look.

Transfers:

In:
Monty Hughes 28 CB Batch Croxlich £3m
David Mercer 29 CB L'thorpe Croxlich £2m
Leonard Slater 22 CF Bavingtor Croxlich £0m
Matthew Pell 17 LM Youth Croxlich
Andrew Brady 18 LWB Youth Croxlich

Out:

Squad: Ernest Hunter looks likely to remain as the #1 goalkeeper, with Patrick Martin acting as backup
Croxlich’s spending in the transfer window seemed to be at improving their defence. Monty Hughes and David Mercer look set to be the new starting centre back duo with Steven Smith and Antonio Taylor.
No money was spent on the midfield, so a midfield of Stuart Bray, Alexander Clarkson, Luke Sturgeon and Leslie Henry is likely. Sturgeon, a CDM originally will probably drop back more and let Clarkson move more forward.
Leonard Slater comes in on a free transfer, but is likely to need to impress in training or as a sub to displace Matthew Cope or Robert Dyas from a starting role

Likely Starting XI: (4-4-2) Hunter, Smith-Mercer-Hughes-Taylor, Bray-Clarkson-Sturgeon-Henry, Cope-Dyas

Prediction:
Winners: 0%
Challenger’s Cup: 0%
CL+CC: 0%
5th-13th: 37%
Top Half: 5%
Bottom Half: 95%
Relegated: 63%
Not the best of reading for Croxlich. The predictions are better than half they don’t stay up this season. Furthermore, their odds of reaching the top half are seen as a mere 1 in 20, and unsurprisingly they are considered to have no chance of a Top 4 position. A long season in store for them, but 37% chance of staying up is still fair odds for them to do it.

Vale FC

Overview: Formed in 69BU to contest the Waldster League, they merged with Vale Valiants a decade later, although the name Vale FC remained. One of the upper tier teams in the classic era, the modern era hasn’t quite been so kind to them, as they’ve also bounced around the top two fights. One of the 4 main “Outer Waldster” sides, alongside Stanmorn, Sporting Towerhaite and Galling Rangers 7AU (seen as the successor to the defunct Galling Rangers FC).

Last Season: The last Matchday saw them face off against Guildwell Football, needing to not lose to go up as champions. They did just that, and return to the Super League as Challenge League champions after a season in the second tier. The Flavovespia Gold Cup wasn’t a good experience last season, in Round 2 they went straight out at home to Old Marthorpe, one tier below them. In the League Cup, they got an upset by tier against Batchingtonwood Rovers, before elimination in Round 3 by eventual winners Kings Lunsel.

Kit: Vale combine their traditional V motif with a “sailors collar” design. The high amount of purple on the home kit hasn’t been universally acclaimed, but it is a kit that clearly defines the team. The V dashes on the shorts and socks are an interesting touch, even if a few teams describe them as “arrows pointing towards the direction of the team”. Without much need to have away shorts and socks to fit the home kit, Vale go with a two tone bluish green away kit in the same template. An unusual colour combination, but one that is quietly well received.

Transfers:

In:
Ronald Edmonds 25 GK Waldster Vale £5m
Raymond Gosling 28 CM A'brooke Vale £5m
Bernard Richardson 22 LM St Astons Vale £3m
Peter Collins 30 CB B Wood Vale £2.5m
Clive Turner 22 CF Waldster Vale £0m
Colin Spray 21 LAM M'thorpe Vale £0m
Peter Holmes 17 CB Youth Vale
David Anderson 19 RB Youth Vale

Out:
Eddie Killingsworth 21 CB Vale Waldster £6.5m
Ashley Bond 35 LB Vale Retired
John Arnold 36 RB Vale Retired

Squad: Although Geoff Ashcroft impressed in the Challenge League, Vale have spent money to bring in a more experienced keeper, and Ronald Edmonds will likely start for the newly promoted side.
Defensive depth at Vale is somewhat lacking, with two retirements and the sale of Eddie Killingsworth to nearby Waldster. Royston Yates will likely start at left back. Joining him in the centre will be Damon Pearce and Peter Collins, the latter who once played for rivals Stanmorn. Steve Leahy is going to be the first choice at right back.
Bernard Richardson comes in as the new left midfielder. Raymond Gosling will join Alan Holdsworth in the midfield, with John Crewe out wide, after he impressed last season.
Dean Palmer will be starting up front, and although Bo Tsang looks set to start this season as one of the two main choices, expect Clive Turner to put pressure on him for a place in the squad.

Likely Starting XI: (4-4-2) Edmonds, Yates-Pearce-Collins-Leahy, Richardson-Gosling-Holdsworth-Crewe, Palmer-Tsang

Prediction:
Winners: 0%
Challenger’s Cup: 0%
CL+CC: 0%
5th-13th: 41%
Top Half: 6%
Bottom Half: 94%
Relegated: 59%
Slightly better numbers than Croxlich, but not much better though. Still a higher than 50:50 chance that they get relegated according to models. Only a 6% chance they can finish in the Top Half, and no chance of a surprise run to IFCF qualifications according to models. On those odds, they could very well stay up however.

South Maishop FC

Overview: South Maishop were founded in 67BU, but although they were founding members of the Inter City Cup and the United Football League, were minnows throughout. Starting the modern era in the second tier, many thought they would be one of those sides that may inevitably fall lower as the pyramid was rebuilt. Instead, they held their ground and have now on a few occasions made it as Super League members.

Last Season: It went down to the wire, but a win at home to the champions Kings Lunsel kept them in the Super League for another season at least. A late drop in form put them in the danger zone, but they managed to survive. They made the quarter finals of the Flavovespia Gold Cup, but Marthorpe City bettered them at that stage. A Round 3 penalty loss to Nailwood Mills in the League Cup was a little disappointing.

Kit: South Maishop roll over their home kit from last season. A navy blue and red striped kit, a standard design for the side, but one that is still popular with the fans. The away kit is white with a broad two tone band across the chest, the tops intersecting with the sleeve cuffs. Based on an old classic template, it has been well received by a lot of fans, although the cynics say it’s still similar to the previous away kit, and a bit of a cash grab.

Transfers:

In:
Liam Nicholls 24 GK M'thorpe Smaishop £8.5m
Malcolm Golfin 24 CF B Wood Smaishop £7m
Yungen Li 35 CF Kings Smaishop £4m
Gary White 19 RM Youth Smaishop

Out:
Lucky Diamond 22 GK Smaishop L'thorpe £20m
Michael McGowan 25 CM Smaishop B'field £3m
Dean Alfred 26 RWB Smaishop Bavingtor £2m
Fao Brown 20 CB Smaishop Oxwich £0m

Squad: Lucky Diamond will be a considerable loss to South Maishop. In his place comes Liam Nicholls from Marthorpe City. Back up to John Burnie, South Maishop believe that for £8.5m, they got a keeper that can keep them up.
Thomas Carr will start at left back, and Ian Goulding will join him at right back after the sale of Dean Alfred. A change however at centre back, as promising youngster Daniel Lansdell looks set to displace either Kevin Bradley or John Wildman from a starting role.
The midfield looks set to stay much the same as last season, with Jason Hammonds and Philip Taylor sitting behind Mahtab Ahmad, with just the 3 in the midfield.
Up front, John Bell and Robert Gilbert both hit double figures last season, and a third double figure scoring striker will join them, Malcolm Golfin. Yungen Li has also been signed as a rotation option, and expect him to get minutes, despite his age.

Likely Starting XI (4-3-3): Nicholls, Carr-Wildman-Lansdell-Goulding, Hammonds-Ahmad-Taylor, Bell-Gilbert-Golfin

Prediction:
Winners: 0%
Challenger’s Cup: 1%
CL+CC: 1%
5th-13th: 46%
Top Half: 11%
Bottom Half: 89%
Relegated: 53%
South Maishop will be disappointed to see that they’re seen as more likely than not to go down. At 53%, it is little more than a coin toss though it seems. A 1 in 9 chance thereabouts of a Top Half finish, and a 1 in 100 chance of IFCF qualification. They’ve produced some upsets before, can this season be another one?

Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Overview: Formed as Loxthorpe FC, they can trace their history back all the way to 82BU. They adopted the Rovers suffix in 64BU, following a move to a new ground. They were one of the 8 founders of the GWNFA Super League, and are one of only 3 clubs who can boast an unbroken streak in the top flight since then, classic and modern era. However, only 4AU and 5AU in the modern era have seen them as Super League champions, although they do also have 2 Flavovespia Gold Cups to their name.

Last Season: Nothing seemed to go right for Loxthorpe Rovers last season. 12th in the table after pre-season expectations of an IFCF place, instead they had a relegation battle on their hands. In the Flavovespia Gold Cup, they lost at home in Round 3 to Alstone, 2 tiers below them. A quarter final appearance in the League Cup was the only small part of the season that wasn’t a failure for the east coast side.

Kit: After the half stripe kit last season, Loxthorpe Rovers go with a more simple template. Not a terrible design, but some are critical of how much white is on the kit, and the darker shade of green used. A burgundy and grey away kit has divided opinion, with some liking the break from more common colours used. Others think the colour choice is a poor mix, and a few are aghast that grey, a colour rivals Langmere Green Rovers wore, is used for a Loxthorpe Rovers kit. (Ironically many Langmere Green Rovers resented the fact they wore grey)

Transfers:

In:
Lucky Diamond 22 GK Smaishop L'thorpe £20m
Nick Bracken 28 CF Bavingtor L'thorpe £1.5m
Robert Campbell 34 GK Waldster L'thorpe £0m
Andrew Brocklehurst 17 CF Youth L’thorpe
Ian Lambert 18 CAM Youth L’Thorpe

Out:
Nicholas Dobson 26 GK L'thorpe Advernians £17m
David Mercer 29 CB L'thorpe Croxlich £2m
James Taylor 25 CAM L'thorpe Nmayshop £0.5m
Gordon Cox 20 CF L'thorpe Gann £0m
Glenn Williams 36 CF L’thorpe Retired

Squad: After his dismissal from Hadford Hill, Carter Cromwell takes charge at Loxthorpe Rovers. However his squad for this season looks more of an evolution than a revolution.
The big change will be in goal. Big Nicholas Dobson has been sold, setting his sights outside of Flavovespia. In comes the highly rated Lucky Diamond of South Maishop, as he hopes to do enough to return to the national team. Robert Campbell also comes in to provide experience, depth and mentorship.
The defence looks unchanged from last season, with Ashley Pain and Stephen Moore as full backs, and David Bowley and Ernest Cliff as the centre backs.
Cromwell looks set to trial a more split midfield, much like the national team with deeper central players and more attacking wide players. Neil Ambrose and David Nichols will play in the centre, flanked by William Somers and Gideon Amos.
Up front, Gary Carr and Stephen Nichols (brother of David) look set to be the starters, although new signing Nick Bracken and promising youngster Andrew Brocklehurst could see chances.

Likely Starting XI: (4-2-2-2) Diamond, Pain-Bowley-Cliff-Moore, Ambrose-D.Nichols, Somers-Amos, Carr-S.Nichols

Prediction:
Winners: 2%
Challenger’s Cup: 19%
CL+CC: 21%
5th-13th: 78%
Top Half: 62%
Bottom Half: 38%
Relegated: 1%
After last season, the 1% in the relegation column will be a big relief for Carter Cromwell and the Loxthorpe Rovers fans. Although they only have a 62% chance of a top half finish, it shows that the club are at least going to be aiming upwards. 21% chance of the IFCF does put them a considerable distance from the top tier clubs, but it’s not out of the question for them to do it.

Carston Green FC

Overview: Formed in 85BU, Carston Green are one of Flavovespia’s oldest clubs, and outside of the classic Big 3, are considered one of the most prestigious clubs. At times in the classic era, they were considered equal to, or arguably better than the classic Big 3 were. Sadly for them the modern era hasn’t been so kind to them. A surprise relegation in 2AU saw them begin a turbulent time, as they nearly collapsed entirely in 11AU in the third tier. They recovered, were promoted that same season, and since then have been something of a yo-yo team between the top two tiers.

Last Season: They started well in the Super League following promotion, but did seem to fade away as the season progressed. 11th in the table was whereabouts they would have wanted to finish realistically, and guarantees another season in the top flight. They knocked out the holders Kings Lunsel in Round 2 of the Flavovespia Gold Cup and reached the quarter finals. In the League Cup, they reached the 3rd round before Loxthorpe Rovers eliminated them.

Kit: The horizontal stripes have almost gone, replaced with horizontal pinstripes for this kit. The kit looks quite smart and tidy, although some would have preferred to see the pinstripes extend along the sleeves of the shirt as well. The away kit follows the same template, but rendered in all black. These kits probably won’t win prizes as the teams best ever, but they do the job and have been reasonably well received.

Transfers:

In:
Richard Doughty 22 CF B Wood CarstonG £5m
Sidney Harper 21 CB Batch CarstonG £0m
Michael Hornby 17 RM Youth CarstonG

Out:
Gerard Gaffney 33 CM CarstonG B'field £3.5m
Erroll Simpson 35 CB CarstonG B'field £0m
Mike Nixon 37 CB CarstonG Retired

Squad: Carston Green weren’t big spenders or sellers in the transfer market. In goal will remain Kevin Norton, with Jonathan Thompson his experienced veteran back up.
In defence and despite his age, Jonathan Cake will likely start. Alongside Benjamin Potter, Alexander Evans, and Andrew Payne, this looks an unchanged defence from last season.
The midfield is one of the oldest in the Super League. Jamie Taylor starts on the left wing, with Tariq Din and Michael Morely in the middle. John Pearce will start in right midfield, but Michael Hornby was a great talent at youth level, and could start in the Super League even in this season.
Richard Doughty, signed from Binclestead Wood will likely start, with Devon Hamilton preferred slightly to George Bunting at this time. Robert Hunt and Raymond Wilson remain with the team, but retirement will be on the cards soon for them.

Likely Starting XI: (4-4-2) Norton, Cake-Potter-Evans-Payne, Taylor-Din-Morely-Pearce, Doughty-Hunt

Prediction:
Winners: 0%
Challenger’s Cup: 2%
CL+CC: 2%
5th-13th: 73%
Top Half: 17%
Bottom Half: 83%
Relegated: 25%
A slightly higher chance of relegation than they’d ideally want, at 1 in 4. With around a 1 in 6 chance of a top half finish, its likely Carston Green face a season somewhere between a relegation battle and a push for the Top Half. Or maybe they have a 2% season where they unexpectedly fight it out near the top.

Hadford Hill FC

Overview: Formed in 89BU, and widely considered the second oldest professional club in Flavovespia, Hadford Hill are one of the most famous clubs in the nation. Their history is almost unrivalled, and in the classic era the team in red were a venerated and feared opponent, with countless accolades. The modern era seemed to be going the same way, 7 titles up to 13AU, a majority of them at the time. However, twice they suffered a shock relegation, and although they bounced back immediately both times, they have never quite been the same team ever since.

Last Season: A promising start saw them look like they could challenge for the title at the halfway point. Sadly it all fell apart in the second half of the season. They were knocked out of the 4th Round of the Flavovespia Gold Cup at home by rivals Waldster, then fell out of form in the league, at one point losing 5-0 to local rivals Marthorpe City, and crashing to 10th place. It was the end of the line for Carter Cromwell, who was sacked after several seasons at the club.

Kit: An all red home kit (no surprises there), with a HH pattern motif down the top of the sleeves and side of the shorts. Generally well received, representing the identity of the club well, whilst not taking too much away from the general all red template. The away kit is an interesting green, not the white, grey or black that’s often seen. It’s paired with white shorts and black socks, that look designed to fit both the home and away shirt. An interesting choice by Hadford Hill.

Transfers:

In:
David Michael 29 CF W'd GC HadfordH £22.5m
Ian Johnson 28 RB B Wood HadfordH £11.5m
Kevin Harris 29 LB W'd GC HadfordH £6m
Jakub Woloszyn 31 CDM LGR HadfordH £5m
Robert Clarke 31 CM B Wood HadfordH £4.5m
Robert Booth 17 CAM Youth HadfordH
Keith Aspden 18 LM Youth HadfordH
Reg Cupit 18 LWB Youth HadfordH

Out:
Steven Hall 27 RAM HadfordH Kings £50m
Malcolm MacKay 25 CB HadfordH Alton Athletic Club £7m
Martin Fox 26 LWB HadfordH Bavingtor £4.5m
Clive McIntosh 28 CAM HadfordH Henhaven £2m
Mike Merrill 33 CB HadfordH Capton £1.5m
Daniel Crosland 23 CDM HadfordH B'field £0m
Roberto Goncalves 34 CF HadfordH B Wood £0m
Vincent Sutcliffe 36 LM HadfordH Retired

Squad: Robbie Redfield is the new man in the dugout at Hadford Hill. Without a doubt however, one transfer dominates, the sale of Steven Hall to Kings Lunsel.
Wayne Shaw continues to be the goalkeeper for Hadford Hill, Redfield seemingly content to keep him in that position.
Although Redfield favoured a 3-4-3 at Langmere Green Rovers, it looks set to be a 4-3-3 at Hadford Hill. Despite the signing of Kevin Harris, Patrick Cannon will likely have at least one more season as the starting left back. Sailin Sheth and Ryan Hawkins will be the centre back pairing, and new signing Ian Johnson will start as right back.
The midfield will be different with the absence of Hall. Nigel Humphries and Alan Holt will join up with Jakub Woloszyn, who Redfield signed from his old club. Robert Clarke will likely also see plenty of time on the pitch this season.
Up front, and David Michael will have the unenviable role of trying to replace Steven Hall. He joins Edward Barkes and Anthony Hannigan in the Hadford Hill attack.
Likely Starting XI: (4-3-3) Shaw, Cannon-Sheth-Hawkins-Johnson, Holt-Humphries-Woloszyn, Michael-Barkes-Hannigan

Prediction:
Winners: 0%
Challenger’s Cup: 9%
CL+CC: 9%
5th-13th: 75%
Top Half: 43%
Bottom Half: 57%
Relegated: 17%
For their fans, they won’t like to read that they effectively have a “rolling a 1” chance of going down, for a 3rd time. The odds on a top half and bottom half finish are quite close to even, so a season of mid-table mediocracy could well be on the cards again. Still, a 1 in 11 chance of IFCF competition can’t be written off, although it is still weird to many to see Hadford Hill with a 0% chance of being the nation’s best.

Bavingtor FC

Overview: Bavingtor FC formed in 61BU, with the intent of representing the city/region in the Inter City Cup. They quickly grew to become the main team of the city, in an area where there were several smaller teams competing. Not a particularly powerful team in the classic era, in the modern era they’ve mostly been a big part of the Super League, but have at times fallen into the second tier. The last time they were at that level was 23AU, only to then stun everyone in 24AU by winning the Super League after promotion.

Last Season: The highlight of their season was of course winning the Flavovespia Gold Cup, beating Langmere Green Rovers 1-2 in the final. They harboured ambitions of a top half league finish, although were only 9th in the end. However, as they won a major trophy, few fans can complain about the outcome of last season.

Kit: Home kit is white with a black panelling on the sleeves, intersected with a small amount of trim across the kit. Not the most extravagant of kits, but one that does the job, so to speak. It is paired with black shorts and white socks. The away kit borrows the same template, but with a blue shirt, that seems to work well. The away shorts in black and the away socks in white look chosen to complement the home kit, rather than be a perfect kit for the away kit, although they still fit both kits.

Transfers:

In:
Mike Beeton 27 CF A'brooke Bavingtor £6.5m
Martin Fox 26 LWB HadfordH Bavingtor £4.5m
Dean Alfred 26 RWB Smaishop Bavingtor £2m
Mohamedraza Shariff 17 LM Youth Bavingtor

Out:
Charlie Thomas 29 CM Bavingtor Guildwell £3m
Nick Bracken 28 CF Bavingtor L'thorpe £1.5m
Leonard Slater 22 CF Bavingtor Croxlich £0m
Joel Loader 25 GK Bavingtor Henhaven £0m

Squad: To nobody’s surprise, David Meehan is the starting goalkeeper for Flavovespia. However young Thomas Foley is on the bench, and many think he has the talent to be the successor to Meehan at Bavingtor.
Manager Austin Brandon has decided to go for 2 new wing backs, Martin Fox and Dean Alfred, to try and boost Bavingtor’s fortunes. A centre back trio of Christopher Hemingway, Ben Blyth and Joseph Judah join them.
The midfield will see Andrew Hurst and William Edwards return. Ahead of them in the attacking midfield position will be Mike Beeton, signed from Apsbrooke, although officially classed as a striker.
Roger Hawkes and Mark Paul will lead the line in attack, both having strong seasons last year, Mark Paul especially.

Likely Starting XI: (5-2-1-2) Meehan, Fox-Hemingway-Blyth-Judah-Alfred, Hurst-Edwards, Beeton, Hawkes-Paul

Prediction:
Winners: 3%
Challenger’s Cup: 14%
CL+CC: 17%
5th-13th: 78%
Top Half: 54%
Bottom Half: 46%
Relegated: 5%
Better than half odds of reaching the top half will please Bavingtor and their fans. Furthermore many will be happy to see only a 5% chance of relegation, as a club who always seem to end up in that battle every so often. The chances of IFCF qualification are quite low, although “rolling a 6” isn’t bad odds for a side that isn’t one of the biggest in the nation. Finally, could that 3% figure come true, for another unlikely title?

Sporting Towerhaite

Overview: Formed in 71BU as Towerhaite Sports Society, Sporting Towerhaite had a shaky beginning, with a bitter rivalry against the more established Team Towerhaite. Eventually Towerhaite Sports Society became the sole professional team in the city in 59BU, but for legal reasons were never able to take on the name Towerhaite FC, or a close variant of that. 22BU saw them modernise their name to Sporting Towerhaite. Their most successful era came in 2AU with a 4th place in the Super League, followed 3 years later with a Flavovespia Gold Cup win. Since the modern era, they have 6 relegations from the Super League, and 6 promotions to the Super League.

Last Season: Sporting Towerhaite had a quietly successful season by their standards. Predicted to be in the relegation race, they stayed out of it, and were quite often in the top half. 8th in the end was a very fair result for them, and their fans were happy with it. In Round 3 of the Flavovespia Gold Cup and Round 2 of the League Cup, it was South Maishop who eliminated them, by 1 goal in both matches.

Kit: Sporting Towerhaite will use the same kits as last season, home and away. The home is in their beige colours, with white and black piping along the sleeves. Not a complex kit, but it’s popular, and they’ve got the shade of beige right. The away kit is in all white, and is a very smart design, well liked by many, including the neutrals.

Transfers:

In:
Gary Hays 31 CB LGR SportingT £3m
Robert Rosen 18 LB Youth SportingT
Kelvin Bullock 17 LAM Youth SportingT
Eric Reid 18 RAM Youth SportingT

Out:
Darren Hunt 31 CF SportingT FKP Ottowić County £5.5m
Stephen Vail 34 CAM SportingT Capton £0m
Mark Robinson 21 CM SportingT NWU £0m
John Sizer 37 CB SportingT Retired

Squad: Sporting Towerhaite are another side who weren’t very active in the transfer market this time around. Lawrence Furrer should be the starter in goal again for Sporting Towerhaite.
In defence, George Atkinson, Alan Price, Gary Hays and Steven Arthur are the likely returning starters in the back 4 for Sporting Towerhaite.
David Clark, Derrick Henry and Alan Owens will be the starting midfielders, although the talented teenager Peter Smith will be pushing for starts soon at Sporting Towerhaite.
The triple M of Nick Massey, Anthony Miles and Keith Murray should be sure to continue as the strike force for Sporting Towerhaite, after their surprisingly strong performance last season.

Likely Starting XI: (4-3-2-1) Furrer, Atkinson-Price-Jones-Arthur, Clark-Henry-Owens, Massey-Murray, Miles

Prediction:
Winners: 0%
Challenger’s Cup: 6%
CL+CC: 6%
5th-13th: 71%
Top Half: 25%
Bottom Half: 75%
Relegated: 23%
They were 8th last season, but only a 1 in 4 chance of repeating at least that feat will be a bit of a disappointment for Sporting Towerhaite. The 23% chance of relegation according to models also doesn’t bode too well, although on these odds it’s likely somewhere in the upper echelons of the bottom half will be their final position.

Westwood Garden City FC

Overview: Westwood Sports Society was founded in 71BU, but officially their place in the Inter City Cup moved to Westwood Garden City FC in 58BU. There’s some debate as to whether or not Westwood Garden City FC are a true successor to Westwood Garden City, or if that claim goes to Westwood FC or neither side. One of the teams who in the classic era spent little time in the top flight, they came out of the reformation of the football system better than others and have seen plenty of top-flight football. Maybe not hugely successful, with just a 4th and a Flavovespia Gold Cup runners up to their name, but still a good side down in the south west of the nation.

Last Season: The newly promoted side made a great start last season, even topping the Super League in the early stages. However their form faltered somewhat, although a late recovery meant they were still 7th in the end. Eliminated at their first stage in Round 2 of the Flavovespia Gold Cup was a little disappointing, albeit it was to eventual winners Bavingtor. An eventful 5-3 loss in Round 3 to Binclestead Wood was the fat of Westwood Garden City in the League Cup.

Kit: One of two teams to roll over both of their kits to the new season. The faded diagonal across the top of the kit was a bit divisive to begin with, but any grew to like or at least accept it. The faded shorts and socks cuffs fitted the theme of the kit well though. The away kit simply reversed the colours, and the all black kit was the obvious, yet still effective choice.

Transfers:

In:
Martin Jones 28 LB Stanmorn W'd GC £10m
Mark Chalmers 26 RM NWU W'd GC £4.5m
Jack May 29 CAM Batch W'd GC £0m
Antony Holder 17 CF Youth W’d GC

Out:
David Michael 29 CF W'd GC HadfordH £22.5m
Kevin Harris 29 LB W'd GC HadfordH £6m
Adesh Desai 32 CF W'd GC Hopford £0m
Martin James 36 CDM W’d GC Retired

Squad: Ike Barnes will continue to be the goalkeeper for Westwood Garden City, a position he looks set to occupy for a while yet.
In defence, Martin Jones will be key at left-back, as the big signing of Westwood Garden City this transfer window. Julian Harper and Clifford Dent will occupy the centre and Michael Thompson will play as right back.
Stuart Robertson continues as the left midfield option, along with Valentine Richmond and Michael Davidson in the centre of the park. Mark Chalmers will make the step up to the Super League in the right midfield.
Up front, and Michael Upton and Tarren Kidd will have to fill the hole left by the sale of David Michael to Hadford Hill

Likely Starting XI: (4-4-2) Barnes, Jones-Harper-Dent-Thompson, Robertson-Richmond-Davidson-Chalmers, Upton-Kidd

Prediction:
Winners: 0%
Challenger’s Cup: 3%
CL+CC: 3%
5th-13th: 74%
Top Half: 21%
Bottom Half: 79%
Relegated: 23%
They overperformed to an extent last season, and models do seem to predict they won’t quite do what they managed to do last year. Their chances of relegation at 23% aren’t large, but still not ideal, and higher than their chances of a top half finish.

St Astons City FC

Overview: One of the Big 3, a very prestigious club in Flavovespia, with many classic and modern era titles to their name. They’ve only ever spent one season outside of the top flight, back in 13AU. The modern era may not have been so kind of them as their prestigious history, but they are still a formidable club to face any day of the year, in their navy blue and gold. Many of their fans will be hopeful they can finally make the push pack towards the Top 4 or more this season.

Last Season: 6th place was a bit below their dreams of a Top 4 and IFCF qualification. Not a bad result by any means, but St Astons aren’t quite able to break into the upper echelons again. Their Flavovespia Gold Cup campaign ended with a Round 4 exit at Marthorpe City. They were out of the League Cup in Round 2.

Kit: The gold cross on navy is the symbol of St Astons City, and it brought back for this kit. This time it covers the whole body, but is made up of an ever decreasing dot effect. A bold idea, but one that does seem to have gone down reasonably well with fans. The away kit is a reversal in gold and navy, gold a common colour for St Astons City away kits, even if some purists think it’s too similar to Waldster’s yellow.

Transfers:

In:
Thomas English 25 CM Kings St Astons £17.5m
Brian Clarke 35 GK LGR St Astons £0m
Martin Gilmore 31 CF Kings St Astons £0m
David Hulme 17 LAM Youth St Astons
David Rob 18 RB Youth St Astons
John Ault 17 CF Youth St Astons

Out:
Bernard Richardson 22 LM St Astons Vale £3m
John Durkin 32 CF St Astons B'field £3m
Matthew Hirst 20 CF St Astons H'Milly £0m
Paul Austin 30 CB St Astons B Wood £0m
Stephen Barker 36 RB St Astons Retired
Michael Wood 34 LB St Astons Retired

Squad: Charlie Holton made one key signing and saw a lot of the squad depth vary for the next season, although much of the team remains the same.
In goal, Jon Holmes will continue to be the starter. Brian Clarke was signed on a free to give experience as back up in this position.
A 3 man defence will remain, and Ali Mohammed, Giles Smith and John Bicknell the likely starters. Peter Canavan may however be hopeful of pushing into the first team this season.
At £17.5m, Thomas English will be expected to make as much as an impact in central midfield as he did for Kings Lunsel. Speculation is he’ll join a 5 man midfield, with Sajad Hussain, Graham Keeley, Ian Calver and Christopher Ace in the starting midfield. Ace was an impressive signing last season, and will hope to build on that.
A youthful attack for St Astons, with Victor Cooke and the ever dangerous Marc Sharratt upfront for them. However Trevor Nell, Brian Bayliss and free transfer signing Martin Gilmore will be key depth players for St Astons.

Likely Starting XI: (3-5-2) Holmes, Mohammed-Smith-Bicknell, Hussain-Keeley-English-Calver-Ace, Cooke-Sharratt

Prediction:
Winners: 8%
Challenger’s Cup: 22%
CL+CC: 30%
5th-13th: 67%
Top Half: 76%
Bottom Half: 24%
Relegated: 3%
A 30% chance of an IFCF spot will definitely give the team hope that they have a realistic, if somewhat outside chance of making it in. 76% to finish in the top half is also a good figure, even if not quite the same as their historical highs. An 8% chance of winning it all would certainly not be the most shocking winners ever in the modern era if that came to be.

Langmere Green Rovers FC

Overview: They formed back in 78BU, but it was only with the development of the Eastern Alliance they truly began to find their feet. A team with quite a spell in the top flight of the classic era, although never really seen as true contenders at any point. The modern era saw them surprise many initially by continuing to stay in the Super League, and eventually in 27AU they finally lifted the national title for their first ever time. Now, many wonder if they could be one of the new top clubs of Flavovespia.

Last Season: A poor title defence saw them near the relegation zone at halfway. With Redfield sacked and Young coming in, they rallied, and almost made it into the Top 4, just missing out in 5th place. They were finalists in both cups, however suffered a 1-2 loss to Bavingtor in the Flavovespia Gold Cup final, and an emphatic 6-2 loss to Kings Lunsel in the League Cup.

Kit: Langmere Green Rovers keep up the “tri-tone” green on their all white kits. This time, they take the middle of the badge, and extend it to make bands across the midsection of the shirt. A concept that seems to have gone down well with fans, who like the tie in with the recently changed logo. The away kit uses the same template but in pale green. Some are a bit critical however this kit is too similar to the home kit, and has been mockingly described as “a home kit that ran in the wash”

Transfers:

In:
Tony Elvidge 27 CAM A'brooke LGR £14m
David Lyons 19 LB B Wood LGR £6.5m
Anpele Zork 26 CAM ZRH FKP Ottowić County LGR £3.5m
Gordon Stacey 18 LWB Youth LGR

Out:
Jakub Woloszyn 31 CDM LGR HadfordH £5m
Gary Hays 31 CB LGR SportingT £3m
Brian Clarke 35 GK LGR St Astons £0m
Lee Alexander 38 CB LGR Retired

Squad: Alan Young came in as manager last season to steady the ship, and did a good enough job to be given the full tiem role. Aptly named as the youngest manager in the Super League at just 35, his squad and tactics look quite different to that of Redfield, his predecessor.
Andrew Bullivant unsurprisingly remains in goal, one of the handful of Flavovespians with international experience.
David Lyons is seen as a great prospect at left back, and he’ll start there for Langmere Green Rovers. Alexander May and Mervyn Button will make up the centre back duo, although Thaddeus Thorp and Paul Rodwell remain competent backups. Alistair McKinlay gets named as the starting right back.
A midfield diamond sees veteran defensive midfielder Henrik Jensen line up, with Murad Ahmed and Tony Elvidge in centre midfield, and Anpele Zork as attacking midfielder. However it’s possible that Elvidge and Zork rotate between matches or even in matches.
Up front, Ramon Martin and Christopher Johnson will be the main attacking duo. However the highly rated Adrian Jones will also be pushing for minutes this season.

Likely Starting XI: (4-1-2-1-2) Bullivant, Lyons-May-Button-McKinlay, Jensen, Ahmed-Elvidge, Zork, Martin-Johnson

Prediction:
Winners: 14%
Challenger’s Cup: 44%
CL+CC: 58%
5th-13th: 41%
Top Half: 95%
Bottom Half: 5%
Relegated: 1%
Many see last seasons top 5 as the new contenders for the titles and IFCF places, and the model does bear that out it seems. Langmere Green Rovers have around a 1 in 7 chance of winning it all, and are predicted to be more likely than not to make it back into the IFCF. Good odds, but they’ll have to work to achieve it.

Stanmorn FC

Overview: Formed in 69BU to compete in the newly formed Waldster League, they started off well, winning it the first time around. They would go on to establish themselves over Stanmorn Miners, who were effectively absorbed into Stanmorn FC. They never quite reached the levels of their neighbours in the classic era. The modern era saw them exist as a yo-yo club, until their 15AU, 17AU and 18AU Flavovespia Gold Cup wins gave them the money and prestige to establish themselves in the Super League. In 26AU they finally won the Super League, and have since looked to establish themselves as one of Flavovespia’s best sides.

Last Season: They struggled early on, due to injuries and speculation about Crawford’s job status. When he left to take over the national team, Anderson took over. They improved, and were able to claw themselves back to 4th, securing it on the final Matchday. Marthorpe City eliminated them in Round 3 of the Flavovespia Gold Cup, and they could only get to Round 2 of the League Cup.

Kit: Stanmorn continue on with their brighter blue shade. However the kit panels are in their old navy blue, and the piping is in their old “custard cream” yellow. Paired with white shorts and blue socks, it’s a smart design that combines modern and classic identity. Stanmorn use the same template in the away kit, and bring back the “custard cream” yellow for the shirt and socks, with navy blue shorts. A good combination of kits that have gone down well with fans.

Transfers:

In:
Joseph Pitchford 24 LB B Wood Stanmorn £11m
Herman Kloscher 29 RM NQU Wagedaal FC Stanmorn £10m
Alastair Ross 23 CB A'brooke Stanmorn £10m
Mohammed Salim 19 CM Youth Stanmorn
Garry Sutherland 19 GK Youth Stanmorn

Out:
Martin Jones 28 LB Stanmorn W'd GC £10m
Richard Foster 20 CF Stanmorn Capton £2m
Kanji Lal 23 CM Stanmorn Henhaven £1.5m
Andy Richardson 33 CB Stanmorn FCNW £0m
Scott Gibson 21 CF Stanmorn Kings £0m

Squad: Michael Anderson took over halfway through last season, and has splashed the cash a fair bit to try and improve on 4th place.
In goal, Aarif Muhammad is very much seen as a potential future successor to David Meehan in the national team, and will be keen to try and reach his maximum potential in the near future.
Joseph Pitchford and Alastair Ross have been signed for the defence, and will likely be starters. Neil Wright and Neal Gandhi will likely join them in the defence.
Promising teenager Andrew Thomas and new signing Herman Kloscher will feature on the wings. James King and Charles Winward will likely feature as the central midfield pairing.
Up front and Andrew Mason and Scott Coleman will be the main striker pairing, although expect Sean McClafferty to get game time off the bench and as a starter.

Likely Starting XI: (4-4-2) Muhammad, Pitchford-Ross-Wright-Gandhi, Thomas-King-Winward-Kloscher, Mason-Coleman

Prediction:
Winners: 11%
Challenger’s Cup: 38%
CL+CC: 49%
5th-13th: 51%
Top Half: 88%
Bottom Half: 12%
Relegated: 0%
Stanmorn will probably be a little disappointed to see themselves as the most likely of the Top 5 to miss out on the IFCF, with it’s being almost a coin toss to decide according to models. Still, they do have a 1 in 9 chance of winning the title, and are the first team modelled to have no chance of relegation.

Waldster FC

Overview: The oldest ever professional side in Flavovespia, formed in 89BU. Their distinctive yellow and black kits are known across the nation, and are immediately recognisable, as part of the classic Big 3. Everpresent at the top in the classic era it seemed, the modern era was more of a challenge to them. Despite an unbroken spell in the top flight that continues to this day, it took until 21AU to finally lift the new Super League trophy. A year later, they won the domestic treble, but since then they’ve only since won the League Cup twice.

Last Season: A poor start saw Andrew Lowe sacked after just 10 games. After 5 games under interim management, Nick Cole returned to Waldster. He took the team on a great run of form, and they shot up the table to finish 3rd and with it an IFCF Challenger’s Cup berth. Dreams of a Flavovespia Gold Cup were dashed in the semi finals, by an extra time goal scored by Bavingtor. The League Cup saw them exit relatively early in Round 2.

Kit: A yellow home shirt with black shorts and socks, to nobody’s surprise. An amber panel with black piping with a W at the cuffs is the main detailing. It’s not a bad kit by any means, but not many of the Waldster fans see it as a classic, and the amber section is seen as somewhat unnecessary. The away kit is a black and yellow palette reversal, with the yellow shorts and socks designed to be worn with both the home and away kit.

Transfers:

In:
Michael Marsden 32 RM M'thorpe Waldster £8m
Eddie Killingsworth 21 CB Vale Waldster £6.5m
Jimmy Straker 31 LB XAN Alexandria City Waldster £5m
Conor Harrington 38 GK A'brooke Waldster £2.5m
Stephen Wallis 17 CF Youth Waldster
Alan Thompson 18 CB Youth Waldster

Out:
Ronald Edmonds 25 GK Waldster Vale £5m
Stephen Field 32 CB Waldster Langlois Oceanic £5m
Clive Turner 22 CF Waldster Vale £0m
Robert Campbell 34 GK Waldster L'thorpe £0m
Thomas McDonald 36 CF Waldster Retired
Stuart Gay 38 CB Waldster Retired

Squad: Nick Cole’s return as manager sees him look to build up a squad he hopes can take Waldster back to the top. No major big money signings, but a handful of players come in who may very well start plenty of games.
Jonathan Swain remains the man between the posts. A goalkeeping shuffle meanwhile, sees Conor Harrington return to Waldster. He may only be a backup, but he will return to his #1 shirt he wore when the side were at the top of football in Flavovespia.
Jimmy Straker comes in as the new starting left back. Royston Stephens will be in at centre back, with Seamus Doherty projected to start ahead of new signing Eddie Killingsworth for the time being. Stephen Shepherd will, unsurprisingly, remain at right back.
Cole seems content to play a flat 4 in midfield. Chester Brooks and new signing Michael Marsden look set to play out wide, and Brian Buttery and Lancelot Wray will be the main central players. Michael McGarry and Joseph Ryan however, will likely get time as well on the pitch.
Up front, and John Lawler and Joe Dargie will continue what was a relatively strong partnership last season. Michael Cole, son of manager Nick Cole will however be waiting in the wings to step up, and the precocious talent already showed promising signs last season.

Likely Starting XI: (4-4-2) Swain, Straker-Stephens-Doherty-Shepherd, Brooks-Buttery-Wray-Marsden, Lawler-Dargie

Prediction:
Winners: 9%
Challenger’s Cup: 50%
CL+CC: 59%
5th-13th: 41%
Top Half: 92%
Bottom Half: 8%
Relegated: 0%
Quite a low chance relatively speaking of winning the title, at 9%, but a coin flip between finishing 2nd-4th or not. They should be confident of a run towards the top of the table. It’s an 8% chance for them to end up in the bottom half, and another team given a 0% chance of relegation.

Marthorpe City FC

Overview: The newest of all the sides in the Super League. Their formation in 10BU and immediate introduction to the second tier GWNFA Challenge League has caused a lot of consternation that still lingers to this day. They used the reformation to build themselves into a Super League title contending side, and won the league in 3AU, just 13 years after forming. 7 modern era titles is only matched by local rivals Hadford Hill, but unlike them, Marthorpe City have been in the Super League every season, and it’s uncommon to see a season where that isn’t the case.

Last Season: They were in the title battle for a long time, but eventually it was the runners up spot again. With it they have another berth in the IFCF Challenger’s Cup. In both of the cup competitions, they lost by 2 goals to Langmere Green Rovers at the semi final stage, bitterly disappointing to their fans.

Kit: The bold city outline home shirt has been rolled over from last season, one of the most interesting and creative kits that any teams has worn in recent years. The kit uses the city outline on the crest on the body, with a square grid like effect in the background. The away kit uses the same template but in new colours, this time white and neon pink. A unique colour combination, to produce another memorable kit. Marthorpe City also have permission from other teams to wear amber home shorts and socks and white shorts and socks to avoid a clash instead of the ones form the other kit.

Transfers:

In:
Doron Aldra 27 CM SRS Traal Athletics M'thorpe £15m
Colt Henderson 24 CM XAN Hawthorne United M'thorpe £12.5m
Stuart Cookson 18 CB A'brooke M'thorpe £10m
Andrew Gallacher 22 CB Kings M'thorpe £0m
Sachin Gupta 19 CDM Youth M’thorpe
Robert Simmons 17 LAM Youth M’thorpe
Michael Aldred 17 CF Youth M’thorpe

Out:
Mohammed Saleem 24 CB M'thorpe Dí Maozöxê £10m
Liam Nicholls 24 GK M'thorpe Smaishop £8.5m
Michael Marsden 32 RM M'thorpe Waldster £8m
Colin Spray 21 LAM M'thorpe Vale £0m
Alex Castle 35 CB M'thorpe OldM £0m
Simon Kirk 35 CDM M’thorpe Retired
Bernard Melson 38 RWB M’thorpe Retired

Squad: Charles Morgan has made quite a few changes to his side, as Marthorpe City look to return to the top again.
John Burnie continues in goal for Marthorpe City, and after the sale of Liam Nicholls, Peter Paton moves up to be the deputy.
The wing back duo of Ronald Maddox and David Blythe will play a key role on the flanks. Mark James will be the main centre back and suggestions are young Stuart Cookson and Vivek Soni will be the main starters, but rotation in that position will be likely at points.
Jonathan Feld remains in the midfield, but will be joined by two international signings, Doron Aldra and Colt Henderson. Simon Davison however will likely rotate with those 3 at various points in the season.
Terence Daley and Ronald Peddie will remain the starting strikers, but the setup at times may switch to a 5-4-1, with Daley the sole striker.

Likely Starting XI: (5-3-2) Burnie, Maddox-James-Cookson-Soni-Blythe, Feld-Aldra-Henderson, Daley-Peddie

Prediction:
Winners: 20%
Challenger’s Cup: 44%
CL+CC: 64%
5th-13th: 35%
Top Half: 91%
Bottom Half: 9%
Relegated: 1%
They have a 1 in 5 chance of winning the title according to predictions. Almost a 2 in 3 chance though of making the IFCF is a good sign for them, although pessimists will say that’s fair odds they do fall out of the Top 4. The inverse of Butterfield Rovers, they do apparently have a 1% chance of a shock relegation.

Kings Lunsel FC

Overview: Formed after the Lunselbury split in 56BU, Kings Lunsel within a decade rose to be one of the most formidable teams of the United Football League, and also outside of the Big 3 a tough team to face. Since the creation of the GWNFA Super League, they join Waldster and Loxthorpe Rovers as never being relegated from the top flight. They have a strong record in the modern era, boasting 4 Super League titles, including last season, and they won 2 of the last 3 Flavovespia Gold Cups.

Last Season: Champions after a hard fought season, and the League Cup title as well. Almost everything went right for them, as they once again became the top side in Flavovespia, and with it much prestige. Their defence of their Flavovespia Gold Cup title was the only let down, out in Round 2 at Carston Green, losing 2-1.

Kit: 4 black stripes on the body are said to be chosen to represent the 4 modern era titles won by Kings Lunsel. A brushed gold colour is chosen for the trim, representing their status as defending champions. That imagery is seen by some as a bit over the top and self-indulgent, but nevertheless t is a tidy kit. The away kit is in the brushed gold colour, with 4 black stripes surrounded by white across the midsection. Not a bad kit, although the white shorts do look a bit unusual paired up with it.

Transfers:

In:
Steven Hall 27 RAM HadfordH Kings £50m
Uuel Bon-Ami 27 LM OAM Industrial Kings £10m
Milo Simmons-Bradley 27 LM HVY Union Forge Kings £6m
Scott Gibson 21 CF Stanmorn Kings £0m
Paul Jorgensen 17 CF Youth Kings
Stuart Smith 18 CAM Youth Kings
Trevor Roberts 19 GK Youth Kings

Out:
Thomas English 25 CM Kings St Astons £17.5m
Iain Brown 27 CB Kings Syneca AC £10m
Yungen Li 35 CF Kings Smaishop £4m
Martin Gilmore 31 CF Kings St Astons £0m
Alan Witt 37 CAM Kings Henhaven £0m
Andrew Gallacher 22 CB Kings M'thorpe £0m
William Kenny 37 RB Kings Retired

Squad: Alistair Lough’s title defending squad has one major addition in the Flavovespia nation team captain and quite possibly best player in the nation, Steven Hall. The £50m price tag though is a record, and required some outgoings to make up for it.
Robert Jones will stay on as the Kings Lunsel keeper, keen to try and impress enough to get more national team callups.
The defence looks the same as last season, with Scott Vaughan, Robert Dixon, Tony Gardner and Mitul Shah the default back 4.
In midfield, Steven Hall will be the dominant figure, as he lines up on the right hand side. Officially his position is listed as right midfield in a midfield 4, but he’ll be making many forward runs. Milo Simmons-Bradley and Uuel Bon-Ami will likely both have chances to shine at left midfield, or central midfield if comfortable to play there. A veteran and a youngster, Jordaan Wolfson and Kieron Player look to line up in the centre of the pitch.
Up front, and the duo of Morten Christensen and Victor Adeyemo will hope to carry over their successful first seasons at Kings Lunsel with their second together at the club.

Likely Starting XI: (4-4-2) Jones, Vaughan-Dixon-Gardner-Shah, Simmons—Bradley-Wolfson-Player-Hall, Christensen-Adeyemo

Prediction:
Winners: 32%
Challenger’s Cup: 48%
CL+CC: 80%
5th-13th: 20%
Top Half: 95%
Bottom Half: 5%
Relegated: 0%
Favourites to win the title again, although the odds on doing so are only 32%. They will be comforted by the 80% chance of making it back in the IFCF competitions, and have the joint highest odds of a top-half finish.

by **Flavovespia** » Fri May 08, 2020 2:05 pm

Challenge League

Due to a restructuring of the pyramid, specifically the current third tier, relegation places from now on are reduced from 4 to 3 from the Challenge League

FC North Waldster: The team from the north of the capital will for the first time in their history, be competing in the second tier. In 27AU they narrowly avoided relegation to the non-league Eastern Alliance D1. However last season they had a great run to the playoffs, and in the final upset Boll Lake Mariners to win promotion. Although the reduction in relegation places to 3 this season, ahead of the restructuring will help their survival chances, they are considered favourites for the drop.

Claychester FC: They returned to the third tier in 28AU after relegation from the Challenge League. They managed to fight their way to the playoffs, and defeated fellow relegated side from the season before, Sandneston Rovers to bounce back inmmediately to the second tier. Some of their squad from their last stint in the Challenge League still remain, but they are also seen as likely to be relegated again.

Whittlesbury Wanderers: Whittlesbury Wanderers finally lifted the Western League trophy last season, to win their first ever promotion to the second tier. They will need their more experienced players, especially free transfer signings from teams at this level before. Some predict they’ll find the step up too hard at their first attempt, but others are optimistic they can be more than a one season wonder in the second tier.

Gann FC: Gann won the Eastern League convincingly, and were a penalty shootout against Waldster from the semi-finals of the Flavovespia Gold Cup. Another side in the capital, they’ll have another stint in the second tier. Not considered a historical heavyweight at this level at all, however of the 4 newly promoted sides, they look like the most likely to avoid relegation, and to look towards mid-table.

Millsea FC: Not a traditionally strong side, however they’re now in their 8th season in a row in the Challenge League. 12th last season seemed like a let down, having previously come close to a first playoff appearance at this level. Nevertheless, many feel the St Astons based side have the ability to rebound, and aim for a top-half finish, or even that dream of a playoff place.

Rumlington Rovers FC: A team who spent most of the modern era, and plenty of the classic era in the second tier, Rumlington Rovers seem to be a side mired in this tier. 11th isn’t want their fans ever dreamed off, however the club still needs to improve it’s squad more, before they can consider a promotion push a prospect to think about significantly. Staying out of the relegation battle will be the key this season. 23AU was their last Super League appearance, but another one feels a distance away at the moment.

North Mayshop FC: Their southern neighbours and rivals have been the ones to reach the Super League and enjoy more success in the modern era. North Mayshop were promoted back to the Challenge League for last season. They managed to avoid an immediate relegation, the only 1 of 4 promoted sides to do so. However their squad doesn’t seem to have improved much, and they may be a team that gets caught up in the relegation battle, even with only 3 places.

Hopford FC: In the north west corner of the nation, and with their somewhat insular and isolated attitude, Hopford’s never going to be the neutrals “love to love” side. The ultimate ambition of a Super League place hasn’t been realised for them yet, despite coming very close in 27AU. However their manager then, Alistair Lough, then left for Kings Lunsel and took them to the top last season. Hopford have regressed towards the midtable, but can’t be ruled out for making a playoff push again.

Nailwood Mills FC: Stuck down in the third tier for many seasons, Nailwood Mills won promotion in 25AU, and followed that up with 2 playoff appearances and an 8th place. What their fans however will be looking forward to this season is a derby match vs Apsbrooke. On paper, this isn’t a team that looks like pushing for the playoffs, but they never were the previous 3 seasons, and yet did it twice. An unpredictable team it seems.

Narrock Wood United FC: One of the larger clubs at this level, plenty of top flight appearances in both eras, and in the Super League as recently as 25AU. Last season they didn’t reach the playoffs, a disappointment to their fans. The team have players with Super League experience in their ranks, and they should be pushing for the playoffs at a minimum, if not an automatic promotion place. However, it’s never easy to make the Top 2 when you consider the 3 relegated sides.

Capton Club: It’s been 20 years now since as a newly promoted side, they came 2nd in the Super League. Capton Club on the east coast are one of the bigger names at this level, and are in their 5th season now in their current second tier stint. They reached the playoffs last season, and were 2-1 up in the first leg of their semi over Guildwell Football, but would lose the away leg 3-1 to be eliminated. Any playoff team will harbour ambitions of returning with vengeance, and Capton Club are no exception.

Henhaven Islanders FC: One of the neutrals favourite’s, the team from “party island” just off the south east corner of Waldster and Flavovespia are popular with many. They’ve made it into the Super League a few times, last playing in the top flight in 25AU, but are a second tier common fixture. They reached the playoffs last season, but found Butterfield Rovers too hot to handle in the semi final stages. On paper they can reach the playoffs again, but can they deliver a promotion party?

Guildwell Football: They were a one season wonder in the Super League, reaching that level in 26AU. Since then they’ve had the agony of a playoff final penalty shootout loss in 27AU, then missing out on promotion on the final day at home against Challenge League winners Vale, and then another playoff final loss. The club clearly has the ability to make the playoffs and were tiny margins away from the Super League. They hope to rest those demons all together and return to the top flight, despite their small stature.

Batchingtonwood Rovers FC: Despite their good efforts, Batchingtonwood Rovers were relegated from the Super League at their first attempt, arguably the smallest club to make it to that level. The club return to the Challenge League, more familiar territory, even if at this level they’re still not one of the big boys. Every relegated side will say they should be able to bounce right back, but many in the club acknowledge at this stage, a playoff place is a reasonable ambition.

Apsbrooke FC: Relegated on the final day in their final ever match at Meadow Hill, a cruel end to a decade of Super League football for them, and their historic ground. They return to the Challenge League, a level older fans will associate with them more than the younger fans. Apsbrooke Arena is their new ground, and initial ticket sales suggest it’ll still get close to the 20’000 capacity. Although their best players have left, a good number of players from last season remain, and if their new signings gel, they’ll have a very high chance of immediately returning to the top tier.

Binclestead Wood FC: This will be only their 2nd season in the modern era at this level, the rest spent in the top flight. They succumbed to the dreaded “second season syndrome” last season, falling back in to the second tier. Although their recent story has been that of signings without good replacement, the current squad looks set to battle it out with Apsbrooke and any surprise challengers for that Challenge League title and automatic promotion.

Western League

29AU will be the final season of the Western League and the Eastern League. The top 8 (minus 3 promoted sides in the 3rd tier) will join the 3 relegated Challenge League sides in the new National League Division 1 in 30AU. The teams finishing 9th-14th in both third tier divisions, plus the 2 promoted sides from the Western Alliance D1 and Eastern Alliance D1 each will form the new National League Division 2 in 30AU.

Hadford Dacorum FC: Back in the 3rd tier, one of the teams who seem to bounce between the Western League and Western Alliance D1. The reduction in relegation places to 2 for this season is a help to them, but they’re definitely projected to be in the relegation battle.

Magic Roundabout FC: Another Hadford Hill based team. Their pink and purple kits and more unconventional club culture are decried by puritans, but enjoyed by others. Newly promoted, their key goal will be avoiding an immediate return to the non leagues. The optimists however think they could reach the Top 8 and a berth in the new National League Division 1.

Westwood FC: Promoted as winners of the Western Alliance D1 as well as winning the Alliance Shield, they were dominant at their level last season. Westwood have spent plenty of seasons in the third tier. Not only are many predicting they’ll avoid a relegation battle, some speculate they could even make it into the new National League Division 1.

South Hadford United: They avoided relegation last season, but were hardly convincing in doing so at times. Another team from Hadford Hill, they’ve spent time in the non-leagues as well as the Western League. For them, a relegation battle is predicted.

Melcave Meerkats: One of the most westernly clubs, Melcave is a small town in Hopford. Currently in the Western League, albeit after some tough seasons, they’re quite well known for a side in the current third tier. They haven’t had their halcyon years recently, and it’ll be an uphill struggle to make the National league Division 1, and they could very well be in another relegation battle.

Langpool Capton FC: A team that used to be relatively successful in the classic era, especially in the Western League. One of not many teams in the third tier who were an Inter City Cup side. Sadly the modern era has not been kind to them, and they’ve gone from the second tier to drifting down the table in the third tier. They may yet very well find themselves all the way down in the fourth tier, the new National League Division 2, by next year.

Caffchin FC: Based in Carston, Caffchin have spent the modern era in the Western League and Western Alliance D1, although they had one season in the Challenge League in 19AU. Reaching Round 3 of the Flavovespia Gold Cup last season was impressive, even if the 5-1 loss to Hadford Hill was less so. A team to watch in the battle for the Top 8.

Boleland Wood Town FC: Boleland Wood Town will never be popular, not least with local rivals Saltearth and Ellerstone United, for being seen as the reason Hampridge United fell apart. One of the third tier sides with appearances in the second tier Challenge League, but now they face an uphill battle to make it to the Top 8, and some even think they could be relegated.

Saltearth FC: A mainstay of the Western League in the modern era, Saltearth are well known for some fierce derby matches with Boleland Wood Town. 8th last season, and with a similar level squad means they’ll very much expect to be right in the middle of the table, fighting between a place in the new third tier, or new fourth tier.

Redthwaite Rangers FC: Redthwaite Rangers, the team from the small city outside St Astons, have had modest success in the modern era compared to the past, with one year in the second tier. Their current squad however, look decent on paper, and they’ll be disappointed if they can’t make it into the National League Division 1. The reduction in playoff places to 2 from the Western League and 2 in the Eastern League means it’s a big ask for them to get there.

Highhadford FC: A divisional readjustment means that Highhadford move from the Eastern League to the Western League, although geographically they’re around 3 times closer to the east coast than the west coast. Last season despite being newly promoted, they were in the promotion playoffs. If they can reach a similar level of performance, they’ll be in the National League Division 1. A dream for a side who were one of the 64 fifth tier introduced into the (as it was called then) GWFA pyramid a quarter century ago.

Havermilly FC: Probably the biggest name in the Western League. A top flight side at times in the classic era, and once considered one of the largest teams not to make the top flight in the modern era. Last season they underperformed, and ended up not making the playoffs at all. However with a new manager, they hope to make the playoffs at a minimum, and are actually favourites according to the bookmakers to win the Western League and promotion to the Challenge League.

Sandneston Rovers FC: They were the playoff final losers last season. A team that weren’t particularly noteworthy for many years, the last decade or so has seen them kick on and they’ve had a few Challenge League appearances. This year a return to the playoffs will be the ambition, but with only 2nd and 3rd reaching them, it’ll be more competitive than ever.

Vitarias Legion: Based in St Astons and rivals to Millsea, their grounds are 3.2 kilometres (2 miles) apart. They’ve had seasons in the second tier, and are itching to return to that level. They reached the playoffs last season, but look the most likely of those sides to not return this season, and will definitely have to make sure they don’t avoid dropping into the bottom half and therefore the fourth tier.

Old Marthorpe FC: A one season wonder in the Challenge League in 26AU, Old Marthorpe have been hoping for a return these past few seasons. A team with a complex past, an indirect successor to Old Marthorpians, and one of the most aggrieved over the creation of Marthorpe City by the GWNFA. In this season, their ambition has to be the playoffs, and a push to win the Western League and a second stint in the second tier for them.

Slaton FC: Their efforts in the Challenge League last season were sadly quite dismal, and they returned to the Western League without posing much threat to the second tier. The team from the city in the hills and mountains outside St Astons have never been a historical heavyweight, but they’re a name plenty will recognise. A push for promotion will be expected, but promotion itself will be a tough battle.

Eastern League

Galling Rangers 7AU: In 5AU, Galling Rangers, one of the original 8 GWNFA Super League sides, and a big name for decades, collapsed entirely, and ceased to be. Galling Rangers 7AU formed a few years later, but have never reached the levels of their historic namesake. They’re back in the Eastern Alliance again, but are unfortunately favourites to get relegated back to the non-league Alliance.

Henhaven Palace FC: On the island of Henhaven, Henhaven Palace have had plenty of times bouncing between the third and fourth tier. Their goal for this season will undoubtedly be to avoid relegation, and to therefore at least make the National League Division 2. Their squad should be capable of doing so, but there’s always a pressure on promoted sides that not all of them step up to.

Camber Place FC: On the coast of the capital Waldster, overlooking Henhaven Island, Camber Place are another side who have had stints in both the third tier and fourth tier. They look like a side with a solid chance of staying at this level, and although it looks unlikely, will be hoping to challenge for a spot in the National League Division 1.

Oxwich Wood FC: Thought of as one of the smaller sides on the East Coast, and in the shadow of Oxwich, Oxwich Wood once again continue to appear in the Eastern League, and in the same division as their “big brother” side Oxwich. They will however, be hard pressed to avoid a relegation battle, and even if they stay up, feel certain to end up in the National League Division 2.

Henhaven Beachside: One of the smaller Henhaven sides who have managed to have plenty of seasons in the third tier. Despite this, they’ve struggled to do much in the third tier when they’ve reached that level. Their squad for the upcoming season doesn’t compare too well relative to the rest of the Eastern League, and they could be in a relegation battle.

Woodbrook FC: Based in the capital Waldster, Woodbrook have seen themselves go from a small semi-pro side into a professional outfit in the modern era. They’ve not been a side with too many appearances at this level, but are beginning to make themselves known. A place in the Top 8 would be a surprise, but they’ll certainly be looking to reach that level.

Oxwich FC: A relatively well known name for the third tier. A side at this level with an established history in the classic era. The modern era saw them fall from the second tier to the third tier, and they’ve not since been able to establish themselves in the Challenge League.
Disappointingly as well, rivals Croxlich are now back in the Super League. Oxwich have a squad capable of at least the Top 8 and a playoff push, but they must deliver or face the prospect of being in the National League Division 2.

Radstye Rangers FC: The team from Vale have always felt they could challenge for promotion to the Challenge League, but that’s rarely come true. Quite a common team to see in the Eastern League, although they’ve had stints in the non-league part of the pyramid. 9th last season, and a mid-table squad in theory, they’re most likely to be right in the battle for the all important Top 8.

Johns Park FC: When the modern era began, they were in the Super League but came bottom. Since then, they’ve never played in the top flight, and have drifted downwards. Now they seem to be middling in the third tier of the pyramid, and their glory days seem ever distant. For Johns Park, they are at real risk of becoming a fourth tier side, and falling ever distant away from the levels they used to occupy.

Locksmith-on-Carron FC: The team from the small town on the river in Nailwood, Locksmith-on-Carron went from being almost unknown in the classic era, to having two stints in the Challenge League in the classic era. They are very much an example of a team that so far, exemplifies the success of the new league system. Their squad on paper isn’t their best ever, and they could be in a fierce battle to get a National League Division 1 place.

Captonbridge Rangers FC: A team that are quite well known, relative to others in this division. Whilst never a major player, Captonbridge Rangers were more prominent in the classic era than many of their current opponents. They returned to the Eastern League in 28AU following relegation, but couldn’t make the playoffs in a disappointing season. A squad that will certainly hope to make the National League Division 1 and push for the playoffs, but nothing can be guaranteed.

Buchraston Heath FC: Despite being the “smaller” side of Buchraston, Buchraston Heath have established themselves as a professional outfit, and have even once made the Challenge League (coincidentally the same season as Caffchin). They play little more than 2 kilometres (1.25 miles) from Buchraston, in a surprise local derby that’s cropped up. They’ll be hoping to push for the playoffs, after reaching them last season, but they’d take a National League Division 1 spot this season.

Boll Lake Mariners FC: Despite the fact Boll Lake is one of the smallest cities in the nation, their football team is still relatively well known. They’ve had plenty of Challenge League season, although unlike local rivals Batchingtonwood Rovers, the Super League has eluded them. Last season many thought they were favourites to go up, but only made the playoffs in 5th place. There, a surprise loss in the final to FC North Waldster consigned them to another season at this level. They’ll be fighting for the playoffs, and a chance at promotion.

Buchraston FC: Buchraston were a newly promoted in 28AU in the Challenge League. Unfortunately for them, a poor season saw them make an immediate return to the Eastern League. A team that’s quite well known, but haven’t been able in the modern era to really make a name for themselves at a higher level than the third tier. Their ambition this season will be to push for the playoffs, but it won’t be easy with the reduction in places this season.

Cartswood FC: Known as Cartswood Rangers in the classic era, they were reformed for the modern era. They’ve had a good number of seasons in the Challenge League, but their last one, in 28AU wasn’t a success. They looked outclassed and outplayed in many matches, and were relegated, despite good pre-season talk. They’re a team with ambitions of promotion, but so do a fair few others in the Eastern League and Western League, so it won’t be easy.

Abbots Lunsel FC: They were one of the original founders of the GWNFA Super League, and once won it. A historic club, known to practically all football fans in the nation, they now begin their second stint in the third tier. Worst of all, whilst they were relegated last season, hated rivals Kings Lunsel were the Super League champions. Their squad on paper is better than any at this level, and promotion is seen as expected by the fans, the board and most neutrals this season.

by **Flavovespia** » Sat May 30, 2020 1:00 pm

Super League

Matchday 1

Bavingtor FC 2–0 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Bavingtor got off to a good start at home in a rematch of last year’s Flavovespia Gold Cup final. A tentative first half saw a few good chances but none taken. The second half saw Roger Hawkes take command with a flying start. His shot just 33 seconds into the second half opened the scoring, and from similar range he’d add his second 3 minutes later. That would decide this encounter.

Vale FC 1–0 Hadford Hill FC

Vale made an immediate impact on their return to the Super League. Their very first attack saw Bo Tsang find the space to shoot low and beyond Wayne Shaw, scoring just 112 seconds into the game. Hadford Hill had the majority of the ball and the attacks, but couldn’t find the net. Ronald Edmonds was proving to be worth every penny paid, as Robbie Redfield got off to a losing start as manager of Hadford Hill.

Waldster FC 2–1 Croxlich FC

Matthew Cope’s close range shot gave Croxlich a surprise lead at Waldster. Nick Cole’s men were not deterred however. John Lawler’s good dribble and shot provided the equaliser towards the end of the first half. Then in the second half, a corner whipped in saw Seamus Doherty get his head on the ball to knock it home, and to give Waldster a 2-1 opening day win.

Butterfield Rovers FC 2–3 Sporting Towerhaite

The most dramatic match of the weekend. Anthony Miles’ 33rd minute goal seemed to have put Sporting Towerhaite on course for 3 points. Anthony Johnson however, got a surprise equaliser in the 83rd minute. 4 minutes later, substitute striker William Stuart’s curling effort went in at the far post. In what appeared to be one of the last attacks of the game, Gary Watson bundled the ball home in a crowded box from a corner. The joy of the home fans was short lived. Sporting Towerhaite launched one final attack, and Alan Owen’s long ball into the box was deflected in by Ian Wallace.

St Astons City FC 3–3 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

No shortages of goals in St Astons between two sides with outside aspirations of an IFCF place. It was Christopher Ace who opened the scoring, a quick dash down the right, and a one-two with Marc Sharratt gave him the chance to beat Lucky Diamond, which he did well. Stephen Nichols would equaliser not long after though for the visitors. Veteran Brian Bayliss’ header re-established the lead for the hosts in the 57th minute, but Gideon Amos volleyed home an equaliser. Martin Gilmore would give St Astons City yet another lead, however Stephen Nichols doubled his tally, and got the final equaliser, this time from the edge of the box.

Stanmorn FC 1–4 Carston Green FC

Stanmorn were left stunned by an inspired display by Carston Green. Richard Doughty opened up the scoring in the 17th minute, with a shot close to the 6 yard box. Barely any time passed before he found himself with another chance, and another goal. Devon Hamilton then scored from a tight angle to further add to the misery of the home fans. Herman Kloscher’s debut goal was something to cheer for the home fans. However a penalty was conceded late in the first half, and Richard Doughty took the chance to get a hat-trick. No goals in the second half, Stanmorn improved, but the game was long lost.

Kings Lunsel FC 2–2 Westwood Garden City FC

Friday Football Fever returned with the champions kicking off in home, as is tradition. However it didn’t go to form to begin with. Tarren Kidd put Westwood Garden City in the lead with the first goal of the new season, from just inside the box. Michael Upton doubled the visitor’s lead in the 25th minute, with a well taken shot into the top corner. However in the second half, Steven Hall got his debut goal. A whipped cross by Milo Simmons-Bradley was set up for Hall to hit it on the volley, and he took it perfectly. The equaliser came when Morten Christensen’s shot hit the post, but bounced off the back of Ike Barnes and over the line.

South Maishop FC 1–0 Marthorpe City FC

A surprise result came in South Maishop. The first half saw both teams look up for it, neither able to edge the other. Then in the 50th minute, Ian Goulding got to the ball at the far post from a corner, and flicked it home, to give South Maishop the lead. Marthorpe City attacked hard, but their former keeper Liam Nicholls stopped his old side getting an equaliser, and brought 3 points home for his new club.

Matchday 2

Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–0 Marthorpe City FC

Marthorpe City’s lost their second from 2 at Langmere Green Rovers. Poor defending allowed Christopher Johnson to slip through and score in the 25th minute. In the second half, Murad Ahmed’s fierce shot from just outside the box in the 61st minute was enough to settle the game and give Langmere Green Roves their first points.

Westwood Garden City FC 3–0 South Maishop FC

A dominant display by Westwood Garden City at home in this game. Their first attack saw Tarren Kidd get one on one with Liam Nicholls, and the striker played it in with ease. Another clear cut chance fell to Michael Upton in the 11th minute, and his well taken strike gave Westwood Garden City an early 2 goal lead. Tarren Kidd’s penalty towards the end finished off a convincing win.

Carston Green FC 1–2 Kings Lunsel FC

Kings Lunsel shook off their draw from the first game at Carston Green. Hall’s cross in the 23rd minute fell to Milo Simmons-Bradley, who got his first goal for Kings Lunsel. Hall would then go on to score himself, some skilful dribbling opened up the space for him to finish, which he did with calm composure. Last week’s hat trick hero Richard Doughty pulled a goal back in the 71st minute from 12 metres out, but Kings Lunsel defended well from there on out, to take 3 points.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–0 Stanmorn FC

A close game between nearby Loxthorpe Rovers and Stanmorn saw the hosts edge it. The second half saw the Nichols brothers link up to score, David Nichols’ through ball found Stephen Nichols on the edge of the box, he took a touch to knock it into position, before opening the scoring. That would prove to be the only goal of the game, Loxthorpe have 4 points from 2, but Stanmorn remain without a point.

Sporting Towerhaite 1–1 St Astons City FC

Sporting Towerhaite play another game with some late drama in it. The game itself wasn’t particularly exciting, until the 79th minute, when thanks to a defensive mistake, Brian Bayliss got past Lawrence Furrer, and slotted home into the empty net. The hosts frantically looked for an equaliser and in the 92nd minute, a free kick was whipped into the box, and Derrick Henry got a flick on past Jon Holmes to equaliser for the hosts. A point won at the death for Sporting Towerhaite.

Croxlich FC 1–1 Butterfield Rovers FC

2 newly promoted sides met early on, both coming off of defeats in their opening game. Luke Sturgeon slipped through the defence to score in the 36th minute, making up for an earlier missed penalty by Matthew Cope. Butterfield Rovers however came out of the second half looking much better, and Michael McGowan’s long range effort was his first goal for his new side. The matched finished 1-1, a fair result on balance, although Croxlich will be disappointed not to have taken advantage of their penalty.

Hadford Hill FC 1–1 Waldster FC

One of the biggest derbies early on in the season, between 2 historic rivals. A close first half saw neither team give much away, and it was 0-0. It was Edward Barkes who found the breakthrough in the 58th minute, a quick turn and shoot in the box to beat Jonathan Swain. Hadford Hill were looking hopeful for the win over their rivals, but just before injury time, Joe Dargie’s shot was deflected away, but perfectly into the path of Brian Buttery. His shot was accurate and sailed into the net, to the dismay of the home crowd. 1-1 it finished, thankfully this derby passed with no ugly scenes.

Bavingtor FC 1–0 Vale FC

Veteran striker Robert Turton put the hosts ahead in the 13th minute, with a drilled left footed shot on the edge of the 6 year box. Although Bavingtor didn’t score again, they looked in control for most of the game, and David Meehan was rarely tested in goal. A bit of a downturn for Vale after their impressive win over Hadford Hill last week.

Matchday 3

Vale FC 1–2 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Vale made a flying start when after just 42 seconds, Bo Tsang’s speculative shot went beyond Andrew Bullivant and into the net. Sadly the joy for the hosts wouldn’t last. Ramon Martin would equalise when he outpaced the defence and placed the ball into the net from close range. Young Adrian Jones would then go on to grab the winner, with his curling shot across the face of goal and just inside off the post.

Waldster FC 2–2 Bavingtor FC

High flying Bavingtor looked good to begin with, with a 12th minute strike by new signing Mike Beeton putting them in the lead. Brian Buttery however would put the hosts back level before half time, with a direct free kick goal 24 metres out. Mark Paul ensured Bavingtor would make a great start to the second half, with his effort on goal going in in the 47th minute. The young talented Michael Cole however got another equaliser for the hosts, picking the ball up 30 metres out, and dribbling it all the way into position to beat David Meehan. A fairly balanced side, between two sides starting relatively well.

Butterfield Rovers FC 1–0 Hadford Hill FC

Robbie Redfield’s start as Hadford Hill manager continued to be a struggle, as newly promoted Butterfield Rovers got their first win of the season. The first half was surprisingly competitive, with the visitors unable to press a predicted advantage over the newly promoted side. Anthony Crouch would then go on and score in the 57th minute, with a well taken shot on the edge of the box. Hadford Hill were unable to compose themselves, and a late red card proved to be the final nail in the coffin.

St Astons City FC 2–0 Croxlich FC

St Astons City got their first win and ensured an unbeaten first 3 games at home to newly promoted Croxlich. They were dominant in the first half, but it seemed profligacy by Sharratt and Bayliss would be a struggle. Then in the 38th minute, John Bicknell got to the ball from a header, and perfectly placed it into the net. Just before halftime, and Christopher Ace finished off a long sprint down the wing, with an emphatic finish. Croxlich had no answers in the second half, as it finished 2-0.

Stanmorn FC 0–2 Sporting Towerhaite

Stanmorn’s poor start continued, this time with a home loss to local rivals Sporting Towerhaite. The hosts failed to clear their lines from a free kick in the 40th minute, and Alan Owens was able to open up space to get an accurate shot away and into the net. Stanmorn’s frantic attacks towards the end were for nothing, and a quick counter saw Derrick Henry score on a rebound from a saved shot from Nick Massey. A 3rd injury time goal for Sporting Towerhaite, although this one was merely the cherry on top of the cake.

Kings Lunsel FC 2–4 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Kings Lunsel were hopeful of a comfortable win, and this game’s attacking duo of Kenneth Pile and Morten Christensen got an early goal each to make it 2-0 at half time. Then just minutes into the second half, Robert Dixon’s ugly tackle on Gideon Amos took the Loxthorpe Rovers midfielder out of the game with injury, and the Kings Lunsel defender out of the game with a red card. Gary Carr scored from the resulting free kick, and the momentum had swung. Stephen Nichols equalised, and with 3 minutes to go, William Somers equalised on the volley. Kings Lunsel had to go for it, but with one less player, a counter attack saw Stephen Nichols run in to score.

South Maishop FC 2–0 Carston Green FC

South Maishop took a second home win from 2 home games against Carston Green. The visitors looked the better side in the first half, but were unable to take their best chances, and it was goalles at 0-0. In the 57th minute, against the run of play, Robert Gilbert shot in a crowded box, and the ball was able to find it’s way through legs and limbs to end up in the net. That goal unsettled the visitors, who never recovered. Mahtab Ahmad went on to score the final goal in the 72nd minute, as South Maishop ended the game on top.

Marthorpe City FC 2–1 Westwood Garden City FC

Marthorpe City managed to finally get points on the board, however it wasn’t the easiest of tasks. Valentine Richmond’s direct strike from a free kick put the visitors ahead just before half time. Marthorpe City however looked a changed side in the second half, and Colt Henderson came through with the equaliser less than 5 minutes into the second half. Ronald Peddie would then score what turned out to be the winner, a quick one two with Terence Daley opening up the opportunity, which he took well.

Matchday 4

Langmere Green Rovers FC 4–1 Westwood Garden City FC

7 minutes was all it took for Langmere Green Rovers to take an uncatchable lead in this game. Christopher Johnson opened the scoring, when he jabbed home a through ball by Anpele Zork. Ramon Martin then doubled 4 minutes later, heading in from a David Lyons cross. Poor marking set Martin through just a few minutes later to make it 3-0. Then, from the kick-off a wayward back pass to the defence saw Martin have a clean path to goal, and he got his hat-trick. Valentine Richmond got his second goal this season from a free kick before half time, but it was merely a consolation.

Carston Green FC 0–1 Marthorpe City FC

Marthorpe City left it late, but got a second win of the season against Carston Green. With just a minute to go, Marthorpe City got men into the box. The initial shot by Ronald Peddie was blocked, but it fell into the path of Terence Daley. It wasn’t a clean shot but it was enough to steer the ball over the line and give the visitors the 3 points, despite one last valiant attack by Carston Green.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–2 South Maishop FC

Both these sides had started well, but it was South Maishop who surprised again, with their win against Loxthorpe Rovers. Loxthorpe Rovers on the balance of things seemed to be edging the first half, but John Bell managed to get a shot away that beat Lucky Diamond, to make it 0-1 close to half time. He would get a penalty in the 65th minute, and took it well, to double the lead. William Somers’ fierce finish ensured a nervy finish, but the visitors held on to take a surprise 3rd win from 4.

Sporting Towerhaite 1–1 Kings Lunsel FC

Kings Lunsel’s title defence continued to struggle on, as they could only draw against Sporting Towerhaite. Nick Massey scored an early goal to put the home team in the lead, the defence of Kings Lunsel looking flat footed and clumsy. Jordaan Wolfson’s long range effort levelled up the game afer 19 minutes. There were some chances, but none really clear cut, as the two sides finished 1-1.

Croxlich FC 2–0 Stanmorn FC

Stanmorn fell to a 4th loss this season, at Croxlich, to the anger of many involved with the club. Poor marking from a free kick left Robert Dyas open and he placed the ball into the bottom corner, making it 1-0 to the visitors after just 5 minutes. They then successfully shut up shop, frustrating the visitors. A rare Croxlich attack towards the end saw Leslie Heads able to hit it home from a tight angle, to wrap up the win.

Hadford Hill FC 5–3 St Astons City FC

A derby match that will be remembered for a while, with a manic first half. Just 6 minutes in, and David Michael cut in from out wide and opened up to score in the corner, opening his tally for Hadford Hill. Anthony Hannigan then headed in from Ian Johnson’s cross 7 minutes later. It was 3-0 to Hadford Hill after 20 minutes, this time Edward Barkes scored from the penalty spot. St Astons City pulled one back with the experienced Brian Bayliss tapping in after Shaw fumbled. However Edward Barkes on the volley restored a 3 goal lead not long later. Marc Sharratt’s 2 goals from close range made it 4-3 at half time in an incredible match. The second half saw more attacks, but the defences were matching up this time. On the break in the end, Nigel Humphries had the time to score from the edge of the box, to finish off an enthralling derby.

Bavingtor FC 4–2 Butterfield Rovers FC

Another derby this Matchday with plenty of goals. It was Gary Watson who opened the scoring for the visitors, with a header from a corner. This would prove to be the only goal of the first half. Roger Hawkes equalised in the 55th minute, with a close range volley, that proved to just be onside following a video referee review. Butterfield Rovers retook the lead, when a through ball by Gary Watson played in his brother Max to score his first goal for his new side. From a free kick, Bavingtor equalised with an impressive diving header by Ben Blyth. An error straight from the kick off allowed Roger Hawkes to give the home team the lead. The dying minutes saw Robert Turton clean through on goal. He dribbled past Logan Shaw, but intentionally slotted the ball back into the path of Roger Hawkes, allowing him the chance of a hat-trick, which he took.

Vale FC 1–3 Waldster FC

3 goals in the first half for Waldster helped them to overcome nearby Vale. Waldster started very well, and opened the scoring 7 minutes in, when Brian Buttery got to a loose ball first to finish. He would double the lead with a dipping long range shot that beat former Waldster keeper Ronald Edmonds. Joe Dargie made it a 3 goal lead, with a goal from 16 metres out in the 26th minute. Although Dean Palmer tapped in a goal for the hosts before half time, they couldn’t get back into the game.

Manager sacked
Michael Anderson – Stanmorn.

Only 4 games in, and Michael Anderson is already sacked as manager of Stanmorn. Having lost all 4 games, the board have lost patience with him, and he is out. His assistant and reserves manager Jamie Walker comes in as the interim manager, and is believed to have 5 or 6 games to prove himself.

Matchday 5

Waldster FC 4–4 Langmere Green Rovers FC

2 teams near the top end of the table this season played out a spectactular 8 goal thriller in the capital. The first chance for the visitors was a goal, as Christopher Johnson latched onto Anpele Zork’s pass and placed the shot into the net. The lead didn’t last as John Lawler equalised with Waldster’s first real attack. Anpele Zork became the scorer in the 18th minute, his low driven shot finding its way in. Christopher Johnson doubled the lead with a flick on from a cross, but just before half time, Brian Buttery’s free kick pulled one back. Substitute Michael Cole came on for the limping John Lawler, and Cole equalised with a good chip over Andrew Bullivant. Joe Dargie would slide in the goal to give Waldster the lead, only for Ramon Martin to equalise, with a pacey run and placed finished.

Butterfield Rovers FC 0–0 Vale FC

Two of the promoted sides met in Butterfield Rovers for this match. They say there’s some entertaining 0-0 draws. This wasn’t one of them, and with literally 4 shots on target all game, there’s very little to write about.

St Astons City FC 1–3 Bavingtor FC

Bavingtor came from behind to continue their impressive start to the season. Victor Cooke, starting after an injury lay off wasted no time getting up to speed, and after Mar Sharratt had a shot parried by David Meehan, Cooke pounced first to bundle it in. However Robert Turton was able to equalise, following a good build up play with Roger Hawkes. Hawkes limped off not long after half time, but his replacement Mark Paul went on to take the lead for the visitors, with a dipping effort from 13 metres out. Robert Turton was able to convert a half-chance into a goal later on, to give Bavingtor 4 wins from 5.

Stanmorn FC 3–1 Hadford Hill FC

Jamie Walker came to Stanley Lane needing to turn around the poor performances of Stanmorn quickly. It looked to be happening when Andrew Mason fired in from 8 metres in the 20th minute, however Edward Barkes scored a similar goal not long later. The second half looked balanced, but Andrew Mason would get his second from a diving header to make it 2-1. Then James King from 20 metres out hit a curling free kick to double the lead, and give Stanmorn their first points.

Kings Lunsel FC 3–1 Croxlich FC

Matthew Cope’s early strike close to goal was the only goal in the first half, and the Kings Lunsel players were not met by applause at the half time break. However they came out for the second half fired up, none more so than Victor Adeyemo. He met Steven Hall’s cross with his head in the 53rd minute to equalise. Then in the 76th minute, he got the ball on the edge of the box, took it beyond the defender and drove the ball low into the corner. 2 minutes later, and from Hall’s free kick, he got to a deflection fastest to turn it into the net for a hattrick.

South Maishop FC 2–2 Sporting Towerhaite

2 teams who have played well so far would play out an entertaining and dramatic 2-2 draw. Malcolm Golfin, new to South Maishop, fired in just 2 minutes after the first whistle. Undeterred, Anthony Miles responded mere minutes later to make it 1-1 in the early stages. There were plenty of chances and good defence, and it took until the 77th minute for John Bell to put the home side ahead. Then, in the final minute of injury time, incredibly Gary Hays managed to score Sporting Towerhaite’s fourth injury time goal in 5 games, to secure a point.

Marthorpe City FC 4–2 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Marthorpe got their 3rd win in a row, as they look to try and push up towards the top of the table. It didn’t start well for the hosts however, as Gary Carr scored with what was literally his first touch of the game, from 12 metres out. Terence Daley equalised in the 30th minute with a clinical striker’s finish, and on the brink of half time, a corner was headed in by Mark James. Gary Carr got the equaliser for Loxthorpe Rovers in the 51st minute. However a quickfire double by Terence Daley ensured he went home with the match ball, and Marthorpe City took the 3 points.

Westwood Garden City FC 2–1 Carston Green FC

An exciting finale in this game, with Westwood Garden City winning against fellow western side Carston Green. Michael Morley scored in the 31st minute, to put the visitors ahead with his effort from the D. However a poor clearance left Valentine Richmond one on one with Kevin Norton, and Westwood Garden City equalised on the cusp of half time. Then, just as injury time in the second half started, Tarren Kidd latched on to Graham Ness’ long pass. Kidd controlled it well, and hit it past Norton to send the home crowd into cheers. Westwood Garden City took a key 3 points from this game, Carston Green meanwhile suffer a fourth loss in 5.

Standings
Super League

5 games in, and Bavingtor are somewhat surprise leaders at this stage with 13 from 15 available points. Next are 2 teams on 10 points. Langmere Green Rovers would be expected to challenge near the top, but South Maishop are a surprise in 3rd. Waldster, Sporting Towerhaite and Marthorpe City are in a cluster on 9 points. Kings Lunsel are just 7th for now, their title defence not looking great at the start of the season. Loxthorpe Rovers and Westwood Garden City are middle of the table, about where some predicted they would be. 10th is a bit of a let down for St Astons City, but Butterfield Rovers will probably be happy enough with 11th. Hadford Hill and Croxlich are just about the relegation zone, the latter far happier than the former with that. Vale and Carston Green aren’t too surprising to see in the relegation zone, but it’d be a shock to see Stanmorn remain bottom for the rest of the season.

Challenge League

2 recently relegated sides occupy the Top 2, but it’s a bit of a surprise to see those sides be Batchingtonwood Rovers and Apsbrooke. The 4 play off sides as it stands; Claychester, North Mayshop, Nailwood Mills and Whittlesbury Wanderers have made surprisingly strong starts and none of those have ever been in the Super League. Narrock Wood United, Rumlington Rovers, Millsea and Capton Club all had varying levels of aspirations towards the top, and will hope to push on soon. Guildwell Football and Hopford will be disappointed where they are at the moment, but Binclestead Wood will be fuming to be just outside the relegation zone. Henhaven Islanders would really expect to escape the relegation zone this season. Meanwhile, the 2 Waldster based sides, FC North Waldster and Gann, prop up the table, as they haven’t adapt well to the Challenge League so far.

Western League

3 teams till have a perfect record. On goal difference, newly promoted Westwood as it stands would win a second consecutive promotion, but Old Marthorpe and Havermilly are right up with them. At the wrong end, Boleland Wood Town have lost all their games, and their stay in the league will come to an end if they don’t improve. Newly promoted Magic Roundabout and Hadford Dacorum are only separated on goal difference to avoid the drop as it stands.

Eastern League

Buchraston and Cartswood are both on 11 points, as they look for an immediate return to the Challenge League. Behind them are favourites Abbots Lunsel, who will want to win automatic promotion and avoid the playoffs or worse at all costs. Camber Place and Oxwich Wood are surprised in the Top 8 as it stands. Henhaven Beachside wouldn’t be the most surprising team to go down, but as it stands, former Super League side Johns Park occupy a place to drop into the non-League Alliance system.

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Round 1

(EL) Boll Lake Mariners FC 2–3 (WL) Saltearth FC
(EA1) Leabury FC 1–2 (EA1) Calhead Rangers FC
(WA1) Havermilly Hanger FC 1–3 (EL) Henhaven Palace FC
(EL) Oxwich Wood FC 4–0 (WA2) Gerald's Oak FC
(EL) Cartswood FC 2–2 (WL) Vitarias Legion (2–2 AET) (3–4 pen.)
(WA1) Panford FC 3–2 (NA2) Torstermound FC
(EL) Woodbrook FC 4–0 (EA2) Lukes Wood FC
(EA1) Waldster Waterfields 1–0 (EA2) Pranglers Crouch FC
(WL) Hadford Dacorum FC 5–2 (WA1) Combury FC
(EA1) Dame Roundabout FC 0–2 (WL) Havermilly FC
(NA2) Parmo-by-Hadford FC 0–0 (WL) Sandneston Rovers FC (0–1 AET)
(EA1) Rumlington Lakes FC 0–0 (EL) Captonbridge Rangers FC (0–0 AET) (4–2 pen.)
(EA1) Waldster Junction FC 2–0 (EA1) Lunselbury FC
(LLA) Northrise FC 0–4 (WA1) Addenleigh Rangers FC
(EA1) Hillsight Bridge FC 0–1 (WL) Langpool Capton FC
(EL) Abbots Lunsel FC 6–5 (EL) Radstye Rangers FC
(WA2) Carston Butterflies 1–2 (WL) South Hadford United
(WA1) Presmoor Bridge Railway FC 1–0 (WL) Redthwaite Rangers FC
(WL) Highhadford FC 2–1 (WL) Melcave Meerkats
(EL) Buchraston FC 2–1 (EA1) Brimton FC
(EAL) Calhead Recreational 1–2 (NA2) Bridles End FC
(EA1) Alstone FC 0–2 (WL) Old Marthorpe FC
(EA1) Queens FC 2–6 (EL) Camber Place FC
(EL) Johns Park FC 5–4 (EL) Oxwich FC
(EL) Buchraston Heath FC 1–1 (WL) Slaton FC (1–1 AET) (4–5 pen.)
(WA1) Maltsterbrack FC 1–2 (WL) Caffchin FC
(WA1) Napsmouth FC 3–3 (WL) Westwood FC (4–3 AET)
(EL) Locksmith-on-Carron FC 0–0 (WA1) Ellerstone Aerodrome (1–0 AET)
(SA2) Hollytree FC 0–0 (EL) Galling Rangers 7AU (0–0 AET) (1–2 pen.)
(WL) Magic Roundabout FC 1–0 (EL) Henhaven Beachside
(WA1) Ellerstone United FC 0–1 (WL) Boleland Wood Town FC
(NA2) Flawthrope FC 0–1 (WA2) St Astons Striders FC

Round 1, sees the third tier sides join 32 non-league sides for a place in the final 64, where the big teams enter. 2 teams below the Alliance Division 2, the lowest official semi-pro tier were in Round 1. Northrise had plenty of experience in the Alliance Division 2 and were unfortunate to go down last season, but for Calhead Recreational, this was a big occasion. Sadly for them, neither side could get themselves into the draw for a chance at facing a Super League side.

Unsurprisingly, many of the games went to form, with the higher league sides winning. That’s not say this round was totally absent of any upsets however. Rumlington Lakes held Captonbridge Rangers to a nervy 0-0 draw after 120 minutes. Their nerves stood firm in the penalty shootout, winning 4-2 to book their ticket to the next round. Presmoor Bridge Railway bettered Redthwaite Rangers at home, Phil Dack scoring the only goal in this upset. Recently relegated Napsmouth to the Western Alliance D1 defeated a team promoted from that division last season, Westwood FC.

The most exciting game was in Abbots Lunsel. The hosts were not used to this level, and ended up playing a frantic 6-5 match against Radstye Rangers of the Eastern League as well. An incredible 7 goals were scored in a 16 minute period in the first half. After the conclusion of Round 1, 10 non-league sides (teams outside of the top 3 flights), have made it into Round 2, with a chance of facing one of the best clubs in Flavovespia.

by **Flavovespia** » Sun Jun 07, 2020 11:50 am

Super League

Matchday 6

Langmere Green Rovers FC 3–2 Carston Green FC

Langmere Green Rovers continued a good start to the season, despite a nervy finish to the game. Ramon Martin’s low driven shot opened the scoring halfway through the first half. Tony Elvidge would then score from the edge of the box not long after the break, and he doubled up with a headed effort in the 64th minute. 2 goals in 6 minutes by Richard Doughty set up a nail biting finished, but Langmere Green Rovers held on to take the 3 points.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–1 Westwood Garden City FC

The 2 teams right in the middle of the table after 5 games came out of this game looking as equals. Gary Carr got the first goal of the game after 11 minutes, exploiting some poor defensive play to get through on goal to score. Westwood Garden City pressed all game for an equaliser, and in the dying minutes, Valentine Richmond on the half volley hit it into the top corner, to take a point for the visitors.

Sporting Towerhaite 1–4 Marthorpe City FC

Marthorpe City’s push up the table continued with a considerable victory over Sporting Towerhaite. Ronald Peddie opened the scoring with a header from Colt Henderson’s ball in. Terence Daley would double the lead from the spot, before Peddie got his second with a close range tap in. Keith Murray gave the hosts some hope just before half time, but Julian Simon extinguished it in the 71st minute.

Croxlich FC 4–2 South Maishop FC

South Maishop’s impressive start hit the brakes against Croxlich, who got their 2nd win of the season. Goals from Luke Sturgeon and Matthew Cope in the first half gave Croxlich a 2 goal lead. Then in the second half, an acrobatic strike by Robert Dyas, and a tap-in from Matthew Cope made it a 4 goal lead for the hosts. John Bell got a double later on, but it was little consolation.

Hadford Hill FC 2–2 Kings Lunsel FC

Both these sides had little reason to be happy with their starts. The big story going into the game was of course the return of Steven Hall to play against his old side Hadford Hill. However it was his replacement at the hosts, David Michael, who opened up the scoring with his cut in and shot. 1-0 at half time, but no long after, Jordaan Wolfson equalised in a goal scrambled in from a crowded box. Morten Christensen would then give Kings Lunsel the lead, with a strike that could take the net with it, so to speak. However Nigel Humphries came through with the flick on from a free kick to equalise in the final minutes.

Bavingtor FC 2–0 Stanmorn FC

First faced last in this Friday Football Fever game. There were no upsets however. Joseph Judah’s accurate header from a free kick opened up the scoring early on. Stanmorn struggled to get back into the game, and would eventually concede a second courtesy of Mark Paul, as their revival under temporary manager Jamie Walker stuttered.

Vale FC 3–3 St Astons City FC

An exciting match in Vale saw both teams take a point, but either could’ve had 3 on another day. Dean Palmer opened the scoring 5 minutes in, although the defence of St Astons were to blame for that. Brian Bayliss, despite his age, continued his fine form this season, with his 11th minute goal. After the break, Palmer got his second goal, but Victor Cooke soon equalised. Ace would put the visitors in the lead with his driven shot from 16 metres out, only for Michael Cosgrove to hook the ball over the line, in a goalmouth scramble from a corner.

Waldster FC 0–0 Butterfield Rovers FC

Waldster made it a fourth draw from 6 against Butterfield Rovers. Although the hosts had the greater share of chances, John Lawler, Joe Dargie and substitute Michael Cole couldn’t make them count. Gary Watson would also miss from 8 metres out in the 74th minute, a goal that could’ve given Butterfield Rovers an upset over Waldster.

Matchday 7

Butterfield Rovers FC 2–4 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Langmere Green Rovers did it the hard way, but they kept their good start going in Butterfield. Anpele Zork opened up the scoring with a shot on the edge of the box that Shaw misread. For much of the game, it was 0-1, but then in the space of a handful of minutes, the Watson brothers both scored to give Butterfield Rovers the lead. They couldn’t stop Langmere Green Rovers’ attacking flurry in response though. Christopher Johnson equalised from close range, then Ramon Martin beat Logan Shaw one on one to take the lead. Oliver Thomas would finish it off, a headed effort from David Lyons’ deep cross.

St Astons City FC 4–4 Waldster FC

Another 8 goal derby involving 2 of the old Big 3. Marc Sharratt opened up the scoring from a quick dribble and low shot into the corner. Christopher Ace would double the lead with a curling shot from a narrow angle. Not long before half time, and John Lawler’s low driven effort halved the lead. Then Michael Cole further endeared himself to the visiting fans with this goal to equalise. Sharratt and Lawler would both get another to make it 3-3. Bicknell headed home from a corner in the 78th minute to give St Astons City the lead, only for John Lawler to finish off his hat trick, making it 4-4.

Stanmorn FC 4–1 Vale FC

Billed as a “must win” for Stanmorn and for Jamie Walker, the home team delivered in an Outer Waldster derby against Vale. Scott Coleman was starting after injury issues earlier this season, and immediately delivered with a goal early on. Herman Kloscher would double the lead not long later. Dean Palmer pulled one back to give Vale hope in the first half. However Scott Coleman put that to rest early in the second half with his second. Andrew Mason finished off with a goal after the defence were left stranded towards the end.

Kings Lunsel FC 2–2 Bavingtor FC

Bavingtor came close to getting 3 points over the defending champions to really establish their title contending status, but had to settle for a point. Victor Adeyemo got the lead for the home team in the 15th minute, with a shot that hit the crossbar but bounced in. The lead held beyond half-time, but William Edwards would equalise, after a scrappy clearance fell to his feet with the goal open. 10 minutes later and Mark Paul found the time and space to place his shot in the corner, to give the visitors the lead. Then, on the cusp of injury time, the record signing Steven Hall pulled out a brilliant 26 metre shot to give the home side an equaliser.

South Maishop FC 1–1 Hadford Hill FC

David Michael’s 12th minute goal look set to finally get Hadford Hill back on track. However a calamitous bit of trying to play the ball at feet by Wayne Shaw left John Bell with quite possibly the easiest goal of his career. Hadford Hill couldn’t really recover, and the game turned into a bit of a drab 1-1 draw by the end.

Marthorpe City FC 2–0 Croxlich FC

A relatively comfortable 2-0 win for Marthorpe City in this match against newly promoted Croxlich. They had a lot of pressure throughout the first half, and Ronald Peddie made it count in the 32nd minute, with a simple yet well taken finish. Doron Aldra would get a goal for Marthorpe City in the second half, wrapping off a strong performance for the hosts as they once gain look to push for the title.

Westwood Garden City FC 3–2 Sporting Towerhaite

Another great match in what was becoming a classic Matchday. Nick Massey opened the scoring for the visitors towards the end of the first half, with a header from a good cross. Derrick Henry would double the lead, when his shot curled too awkwardly for Ike Barnes to save. However Westwood Garden City recovered, with Michael Upton blasting home a fierce shot in the 67th minute. His 81st minute equaliser was almost the opposite, a deft touch and a placed shot. Then, substitute John Jones had the ball land at his feet from a free-kick, and he steered it home, to the delight of the home fans.

Carston Green FC 5–2 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Carston Green managed to put 5 past Loxthorpe Rovers, a result not many saw coming. Just 35 seconds had elapsed when Devon Hamilton was able to beat Lucky Diamond with a curling effort at a narrow angle. Gary Carr would then equalise with a slightly scruffy shot, only for Devon Hamilton to get his second. Akshat Kapur was the surprise player to equalise for the visitors, but Robert Hunt’s half volley just before the break made it 3-2. With 10 minutes to go, Lucky Diamond’s clumsy attempt to block Devon Hamilton saw him take him out as the last man, and the goalkeeper was off. 34 year old Robert Campbell came in, but struggled to get up to speed, and Jamie Taylor and Robert Hunt took full advantage to score, putting a big score up on the board for the hosts.

Matchday 8

Langmere Green Rovers FC 3–0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Tony Elvidge began to make himself a very popular figure at Langmere Green Rovers, with a hat trick over rivals Loxthorpe Rovers. In the 12th minute, he took full advantage of Robert Campbell’s poor positioning to fire in at the near post. A quick one two with Ramon Martin allowed him to double the scoring in the 31st minute, before he finished off his hattrick with a driven effort from just outside the box. A great win for Langmere Green Rovers as they pushed on with their battle at the top.

Sporting Towerhaite 2–5 Carston Green FC

Carston Green managed to score 5 for a second game in a row. Tariq Din and Richard Doughty both headed in goals before 15 minutes were even played. Although Nick Massey’s clinical strikers finish pulled one back, Robert Hunt made it 1-3 with his somewhat scruffy shot. After the break, Hunt got his second from close range. Keith Murray’s volley was impressive, but ultimately futile in the complexion of the match, and Richard Doughty finished off the rout close to the death.

Croxlich FC 3–1 Westwood Garden City FC

An impressive start to the season by Westwood Garden City was knocked back by a loss to newly promoted Croxlich. Leslie Henry’s cross was turned into the net by Clifford Dent by mistake. Luke Sturgeon’s clever curling shot in the 34th minute gave the hosts a 2 goal cushion at half time. Although Michael Upton got the visitors back in it, Leonard Slater finished off the scoring with a clean finish from 11 metres out.

Hadford Hill FC 2–4 Marthorpe City FC

Hadford Hill’s struggles continued with a loss at home to rivals Marthorpe City. Julian Simon and Terence Daley both scored clear cut chances in the box early on to make it 0-2. Kevin Harris pulled one back with his left footed shot, but Mark James headed home a corner to make it 1-3 at half time. David Michael, a bright spark since joining Hadford Hill made it 2-3 for much of the second half. However Hadford Hill’s final attack failed, and Jonathan Feld was able to score into an empty goal at the end.

Bavingtor FC 4–2 South Maishop FC

Bavingtor continued to cement their title challenging with a win over South Maishop. Mike Beeton and Mark Paul scored early to make it 2-0, which it would remain until half time. Although Roger Hawkes close range goal made it 3-0, Malcolm Golfin and Patricio Munoz replied for the visitors to set up a nervy ending. Mark Paul however continued his great season with a second goal following a quick attack to ensure Bavingtor picked up the 3 points.

Vale FC 2–3 Kings Lunsel FC

Alan Holdsworth gave Vale a surprise lead against the defending champions in the 11th minute, with a shot through a crowd that went in. However Victor Adeyemo and Morten Christensen quickly responded to put the visitors into the lead. Christensen would quickly score after the break, with a deftly executed shot from a narrow angle. Although Dean Palmer pulled one back for Vale, Kings Lunsel held on well.

Waldster FC 0–1 Stanmorn FC

A close encounter between 2 strong sides, and it’d take something impressive to separate them. Late on Scott Coleman provided that, with his clever turn on the ball to open up space, and he rifled in a great shot to give Stanmorn the win, in a game that was more exciting than the scoreline suggests.

Butterfield Rovers FC 0–1 St Astons City FC

Neither of these sides seemed to play particularly well in this encounter. However St Astons City were able to squeeze out the win in the end, thanks to Marc Sharratt being played into space and doing enough to beat Logan Shaw in the Butterfield Rovers goal.

Matchday 9

St Astons City FC 1–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC

A close game betwee a team challenging at the top, and another who haven’t quite reached the level they’d hope for so far. Christopher Johnson got Langmere Green Rovers the lead with a clinical finish in the 24th minute. However the wise old Brian Bayliss was able to fire his side back into it with his close effort 5 minutes from the break. No goals in the second half would ensure both teams only took a point.

Stanmorn FC 2–1 Butterfield Rovers FC

Stanmorn’s recovery continued with this win over the struggling Butterfield Rovers. Their advantage early on paid off with Andrew Mason opening the scoring after good build up play. However against the run of play, Anthony Crouch equalised for the visitors. After the break, it didn’t take long for Sean McClafferty to be left unmarked, and he slotted home the eventual winner.

Kings Lunsel FC 1–0 Waldster FC

Kings Lunsel continued their upwards trajectory, as they got a win over Waldster. A great game for Uuel Bon-Ami, who got his first goal, and the only in the game. His shot did enough to sneak past Jonathan Swain. Waldster put plenty of pressure on Kings Lunsel in the second half, but it counted for nothing in the end.

South Maishop FC 1–0 Vale FC

Not the most exciting watch for the fans, however the home supporters will be pleased to take 3 points from this. Malcolm Golfin’s second half strike off the inside of the post and in was what separated the two sides in this encounter. South Maishop continue to stay in the top half, whilst Vale remain in the relegation zone.

Marthorpe City FC 5–5 Bavingtor FC

A game between two title contenders was always going to be exciting on paper, but nobody could have foreseen this. Within 7 minutes, Islam Sheikh and Terence Daley had both got on the scoresheet to make it 1-1. Then Julian Smith then latched on to an attempted clearance to make it 2-1. Terence Daley got 2 right footed efforts past national team goalkeeper Daivd Meehan, to complete his hat trick before the first half even ended, making it 4-1. In the second half, Bavingtor began to recover, and Mike Beeton and Mark Paul sowed the seeds of recovery, putting the score at 4-3 after 61 minutes. Terence Daley would go on to score again to make it 5-3. However Mark Paul, one of the rising starts in Flavovespia found himself in a good position twice, and steered the ball home on both occasions, to finish off an absolutely extraordinary game at 5-5!

Westwood Garden City FC 5–2 Hadford Hill FC

Hadford Hill’s horrible start continued on. Valentine Richmond’s early effort was all that separated the two sides at half-time. However poor defending allowed Michael Upton an easy effort on goal, which he scored. Leslie Heads followed in not long later. Donald Fraser would at least give the visitors something to cheer, but Tarren Kidd quickly resorted a 3 goal lead. David Michael did score against his old side in the 80th minute, but barely anyone celebrated that goal. Stuart Robinson’s speculative effort found its way in with little time left, capping off a great win for Westwood Garden City, but another dismal day for Hadford Hill.

Carston Green FC 0–1 Croxlich FC

After 10 goals in 2 games, Carston Green were kept at bay by some superb defending by Croxlich. Althoguh the better side, Carston Green couldn’t find a breakthrough, in a game that seemed destined to be a goalless draw. Then on the cusp of injury time, a rare Croxlich attack sae Robert Dyas get space at the back post, and he steered the ball into the back of the net, giving the visitors their first away points all season.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–2 Sporting Towerhaite

Loxthorpe continued to struggle towards the wrong end of the table, against Sporting Towerhaite. A tight game saw Anthony Miles break the deadlock with a shot from left of the goal, beating the 38 year old Anthony Williams in goal. Gary Carr kept up his good goalscoring form, heading in from William Somers’ cross. However Anthony Miles got the better of the defence and keeper just before half-time, scoring what would be the winner.

Matchday 10

Langmere Green Rovers FC 0–1 Sporting Towerhaite

A blow for the hosts, as they lost to Sporting Towerhaite in a game that was very much winnable for both sides. Langmere Green Rovers had the better chances in the first half, but couldn’t make anything of them. In the second half, Sporting Towerhaite found their feet and the momentum swung their way. In the 70th minute, Anthony Miles in good form volleyed home past Andrew Bullivant, scoring the winner.

Croxlich FC 1–2 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Loxthorpe Rovers got back to winning ways in a match was not going to be easy given the host’s home form. Stephen Nichols was a class above many on the pitch in the first half, and a goal with each foot made it a 0-2 lead at half time. Although Robert Dyas got one back for the hosts, they couldn’t mount another scoring attack.

Hadford Hill FC 3–3 Carston Green FC

Hadford Hill made hard work of getting a point from this game. It didn’t start well for the hosts when with the first attack, Michael Morely found the net. Edward Barkes got an equaliser with a poacher’s goal, but John Pearce made it 1-2, the score it would be at half time. Nigel Humphries was able to equalise, but more defensive problems let Richard Doughty have an easy goal. The final minute saw a scramble from a free kick, and Anthony Hannigan got enough on the ball to hook it over the line. Neither of these sides can be pleased with this season so far.

Bavingtor FC 0–0 Westwood Garden City FC

Bavingtor came into this game leading the Super League, but were held to a goalless draw by Westwood Garden City. Although Bavingtor had more chances, their strikers couldn’t take advantage of them, and Ike Barnes didn’t have the hardest game of his career. Neither did David Meehan at the other end, although Valentine Richmond did test him well from distance in the 63rd minute.

Vale FC 1–2 Marthorpe City FC

Marthorpe City kept up their push to become champions with a win that was more comfortable than the scoreline suggests. A lot of pressure in the first half paid off when Terence Daley scored a 1 on 1. Marthorpe City could have had more in the second half, if not for some good goalkeeping by Ronald Edmonds. However Ronald Peddie would eventually find a way to score. Bo Tsang gave the hosts a glimmer of hope, but Marthorpe City defended resolutely to finish off the game.

Waldster FC 3–1 South Maishop FC

Waldster got a comfortable win over South Maishop. Joe Dargie’s early goal from 10 metres out was followed up not too long later by a fierce strike from John Lawler. More good play in the second half saw John Lawler double his tally. Mahtab Ahmed’s late tap in was little more than a consolation for the visitors.

Butterfield Rovers FC 0–1 Kings Lunsel FC

Morten Christensen’s early goal settled this game, which really had little going for it after that. The early goal from close range lead to many, many minutes of Kings Lunsel not overly committing, and Butterfield Rovers unable to launch a good attack or sustained pressure.

St Astons City FC 1–1 Stanmorn FC

Marc Sharratt fired St Astons City into the lead in the first half, as they looked to try and improve on a faltering season. However they couldn’t keep the lead as the visitors came out hungry in the second half for an equaliser. Sean McClafferty duly delivered with a low drilled shot into the corner. Both teams had chances for the win, but had to settle for a draw.

Standings
Super League

It’s gotten close, but on goal difference, Bavingtor still lead with 10 of the 30 matchdays played. Marthorpe City are now only behind them on goal difference. 2 points off the lead are Langmere Green Rovers, and Kings Lunsel have now snuck into the Top 4, as they begin to distance themselves.

Westwood Garden City and Sporting Towerhaite will definitely be pleased with 5th and 6th at this stage. 7th for Waldster will be a let down as they aim to at least make the IFCF tournaments. 8th for South Maishop, not quite the highs they had earlier, but still good for them as they stay far from the drop zone.

Croxlich will definitely be happy to be 9th in the table. 10th wasn’t at all what Stanmorn wanted so far, but they’re at least moving away from the relegation zone and recovering after 4 losses to begin with. St Astons City and Loxthorpe Rovers would have both expected more from this season so far. Carston Green meanwhile will hope to try and move off the bubble, but this isn’t a complete surprise for them.
A shocking start for Hadford Hill means they’re once again being talked about as relegation candidates, potentially another disastrous season for this famous club. Butterfield Rovers and Vale prop up the table, the former people expected more from this season, but both could be making a quick return to the Challenge League.

Challenge League

Batchingtonwood Rovers are a somewhat surprising leaders, not many expected them to be in such a position to make an immediate return to the top flight. 2nd as it stands is Claychester, if they finished there, that would be the incredible feat of consecutive promotions, and their first ever top flight appearance.

Apsbrooke and Binclestead Wood are in the playoff places, although both have aspirations of automatic promotions. Gann are also newly promoted, but have also made a good recovery from a slow start to reach their current playoff place, and Capton Club round up the Top 6.

The Challenge League is still very close. 7th place is North Mayshop on 15 points, then Whittlesbury Wanderers on 14, Nailwood Mills on 13, a trio of Henhaven Islanders, Guildwell Football and Rumlington Rovers on 12 and Narrock Wodo United surprise strugglers on only 11 points and in 13th place.

Millsea and Hopford will both be disappointed to be looking at a drop into the 3rd tier, after several seasons at this level. FC North Waldster are unfortunately not a big surprise at the foot of the table, their first stint at this level looking too hard to handle.

Western League

An incredible 28 from 30 puts Havermilly well on course to win the division and promotion to the Challenge League. Slaton and newly promoted Westwood currently have the playoff positions for a chance to enter the second tier.

In the battle for a place in the National League Division 1, Sandneston Rovers, Old Marthorpe and Langpool Capton are distancing themselves from the cut-off, making a strong case for themselves so far.

At the wrong end of the table, Hadford Dacorum are quickly looking like an immediate return to non-league Alliance football is on the cards for them, and as it stands they’ll be joined by fellow Hadford based side South Hadford United

Eastern League

A competitive top of the table sees Buchraston edge the surprise package of Oxwich Wood on goal difference. Abbots Lunsel, favourites to go up, hold the other playoff place in this division. Camber Place meanwhile, are surprise contenders to make the playoffs on their current form. Cartswood are probably the biggest surprise outside the Top 8 as it stands.

At the wrong end, Henhaven Beachside (who with 1 goal scored and 7 conceded are hardly the most fun side to watch) and Galling Rangers 7AU seem likely to return to return to the Alliance system. Johns Park are still in serious threat of dropping down to that level as well, and seem very likely as it stands to end up in the National League Division 2 next year.

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Round 2

(SL) Croxlich FC 0–1 (SL) Waldster FC
(SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC 8–0 (WA1) Presmoor Bridge Railway FC
(SL) Westwood Garden City FC 2–4 (CL) Nailwood Mills FC
(WA1) Napsmouth FC 0–1 (CL) Whittlesbury Wanderers
(CL) North Mayshop FC 4–2 (WA1) Addenleigh Rangers FC
(CL) Binclestead Wood FC 0–0 (WL) Boleland Wood Town FC (1–0 AET)
(WL) Saltearth FC 0–1 (WL) Hadford Dacorum FC
(CL) Guildwell Football 4–3 (EL) Buchraston FC
(CL) Millsea FC 3–0 (WL) Havermilly FC
(WL) South Hadford United 1–2 (CL) Batchingtonwood Rovers FC
(SL) Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–1 (EL) Abbots Lunsel FC (1–1 AET) (2–4 pen.)
(CL) Gann FC 0–1 (WL) Caffchin FC
(CL) Rumlington Rovers FC 2–5 (SL) Marthorpe City FC
(SL) South Maishop FC 0–2 (SL) Hadford Hill FC
(SL) Sporting Towerhaite 1–0 (SL) St Astons City FC
(SL) Vale FC 5–0 (NA2) Bridles End FC
(EL) Camber Place FC 3–2 (EL) Oxwich Wood FC
(WL) Slaton FC 2–0 (EA1) Waldster Waterfields
(CL) Hopford FC 1–0 (SL) Stanmorn FC
(EA1) Rumlington Lakes FC 0–1 (CL) Apsbrooke FC
(WL) Magic Roundabout FC 2–1 (WA1) Panford FC
(SL) Butterfield Rovers FC 1–1 (SL) Carston Green FC (1–1 AET) (5–4 pen.)
(CL) Henhaven Islanders FC 3–0 (EL) Johns Park FC
(WA2) St Astons Striders FC 1–3 (CL) Capton Club
(CL) Claychester FC 2–2 (EL) Locksmith-on-Carron FC (2–2 AET) (2–3 pen.)
(SL) Kings Lunsel FC 5–2 (EA1) Calhead Rangers FC
(CL) FC North Waldster 2–0 (CL) Narrock Wood United FC
(WL) Sandneston Rovers FC 0–1 (SL) Bavingtor FC
(WL) Highhadford FC 1–0 (EL) Henhaven Palace FC
(WL) Vitarias Legion 1–1 (EA1) Waldster Junction FC (1–1 AET) (3–5 pen.)
(WL) Old Marthorpe FC 2–0 (EL) Woodbrook FC
(WL) Langpool Capton FC 4–3 (EL) Galling Rangers 7AU

64 teams left in, as the top 2 tiers join in the action. For Westwood Garden City and Stanmorn, their adventures in the Flavovespia Gold Cup end abruptly, thanks to upsets from Nailwood Mills and Hopford respectively. However the biggest upset was Loxthorpe Rovers losing at home on penalties to Eastern League Abbots Lunsel. A great result for the visitors as they find themselves in unfamiliar third tier territory. 6 of the 16 top flight teams exit in their first game, the other 3 eliminated teams losing all Super League matchups.

Upsets existed in the lower league matchups as well. Gann, quarter finalists last year, were the victims of an upset this year, thanks to the visiting Caffchin of the Western League. Locksmith-on-Carron surprised Claychester of the tier above them, winning a penalty shootout in Claychester. Waldster Junction were the only non-league side to advance to Round 3, with their penalty shootout upset over Vitarias Legion of the Western League.

Of the 2 Alliance D2 sides left, St Astons Striders played well against Capton Club, equalising at one point, but ultimately fell to a 1-3 loss. Bridles End were comfortably beaten 5-0 by a rotated Vale side. Last year’s losing finalists Langmere Green Rovers showed no mercy to visiting Presmoor Bridge Railway of the Western Alliance D1, with an 8-0 demolishing of their visitors.

by **Flavovespia** » Sun Jun 14, 2020 1:32 pm

Super League

Matchday 11

Stanmorn FC 0–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Both these sides had similar expectactions pre-season, but only one had made a strong start to the season. The away side kept up their good form with this win away. A close first half was goalless, despite Scott Coleman hitting the post from 10 metres out. In the second half, a free kick whipped in was steered home by the head of Paul Rodwell, the only goal in this encounter.

Kings Lunsel FC 0–0 St Astons City FC

Kings Lunsel’s push back towards the top suffered a blip as they were held to a goalless draw by St Astons City. Hall and Christensen had the best chances, but the defence of the visitors was strong and stubborn, and would hold on for a clean sheet.

South Maishop FC 3–2 Butterfield Rovers FC

South Maishop got another win to keep them in mid-table, but for Butterfield Rovers, it was ground lost as they look to be struggling on their return to the top flight. Mahtab opened the scoring with his angled shot from the edge of the box, but Gary Watson quickly found the back of the net at the other end. His second of the game, a 44th minute goal should have given the visitors the lead, but poor defending from a corner allowed John Bell to tap it in to equaliser before the half-time whistle. South Maishop controlled the second half, and John Bell’s 55th minute goal to give a 1 goal win arguably doesn’t show the difference in performances

Marthorpe City FC 3–2 Waldster FC

Marthorpe City passed a potentially tricky test as Waldster visited. The visitors, playing in all yellow, would take the lead with John Lawler’s penalty in the 21st minute. However 5 minutes from the break, Ronald Peddie would get goal side of the defence, and finished off a one vs one cleanly. Not long into the second half, and Feld’s cross was deflected in by Seamus Doherty, to give the hosts the lead. Lawler would get his second in the 75th minute from close range. However, substitute Julian Simon’s volley 4 minutes from time gave Marthorpe City a key 4 points.

Westwood Garden City FC 4–1 Vale FC

Westwood Garden City looked far better than their opponents in this game. Michael Upton opened the scoring early in the second half, after Vale valiantly held on in the first 45 minutes. The equaliser came when Clifford Dent inexplicably headed a cross beyond Ike Barnes and into his own net. A quick double later on from Valentine Richmond and John Jones would give the hosts a comfortable lead, finished off by Royston Yates unfortunately deflecting a shot into the net.

Carston Green FC 1–1 Bavingtor FC

Carston Green were a stumbling block for high flying Bavingtor. As the first half neared its close, a great cross from Jamie Taylor made it easy for Richard Doughty to open the scoring. Roger Hawkes would equalise with a low drilled shot. However, despite good opportunities for both sides, the game would finish a draw.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 3–1 Hadford Hill FC

Nothing could go right so far for Hadford Hill, and that continued on. Edward Barkes clever curling shot gave the visitors the lead, but it was soon nullified by Stephen Nichols effort that beat Wayne Shaw at the near post. Hadford Hill, despite good play, couldn’t score in the second half. Then, on the stroke of injury time, substitute Nick Bracken got a shot through a crowd of bodies, and into the corner of the net to send the home fans into joy. Hadford Hill’s counter attacks were for naught, and Gary Carr exploited them to get a late goal to finish off the game.

Sporting Towerhaite 1–0 Croxlich FC

Sporting Towerhaite left it late, but in the battle of 2 over performers so far, the hosts got the 3 points. A scrappy attack lead to an even scrappier attempt to clear it. Eventually the ball fell to David Clark, and although his shot wasn’t a thing of beauty, it was enough to put the ball over the line, and give Sporting Towerhaite another 3 points.

Sacked
Robbie Redfield – Hadford Hill

For Robbie Redfield, his stint at Hadford Hill has lasted just 11 games, with a 1-4-6 record. The former Langmere Green Rovers manager, who took them to their first ever title, has now been sacked twice in two years, his reputation quickly falling. For Hadford Hill, Ian McMullan, the reserves manager, will step in as the caretaker manager, until a replacement is found.

Matchday 12

Langmere Green Rovers FC 3–1 Croxlich FC

Ramon Martin was the star of the show as Langmere Green Rovers continued to push their title credentials. 2 goals in the first half, both from just over 10 metres out put the hosts into a good lead. Although Matthew Cope did pull one back for the visitors, Ramon Martin would put the game to bed and secure a hat trick with a half volley just outside the box.

Hadford Hill FC 5–2 Sporting Towerhaite

Ian McMullan certainly made an impression in his first game as caretaker manager. Within half an hour, Edward Barkes and an error by Gary Hays put the hosts 2-0 up. Derrick Henry’s looping shot made it nervous for a while for the hosts. However in a frantic 12 minute spells, Hadford Hill hit home three times, to make it 5-1. Another late goal for Sporting Towerhaite thanks to Keith Murray, but it was the faintest of consolation goals.

Bavingtor FC 2–1 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Bavingtor got back to winning ways over Loxthorpe Rovers in this encounter. Mark Paul got the opener near the end of the first half, drilling it in from a whipped cross. Although the second half was more balanced, Joseph Judah’s shot following a saved free kick doubled the lead. Nick Bracken gave the visitors a glimmer of hope, but it wouldn’t lead to anything.

Vale FC 5–3 Carston Green FC

Vale showed they weren’t going down without a fight, with a big scoreline in a Matchday full of them. Dean Palmer opened the scoring early on, but Richard Doughty found the net for the visitors not long later. Alan Holdsworth would then score with a chipped effort, before he got another from closer range. Richard Doughty, Dean Palmer and Robert Hunt all found the net in a frantic four minutes. The second half saw Carston Green come close on multiple occasions, but after their final attack fell apart, Bo Tsang was able to counter superbly, to score with only Kevin Norton to beat.

Waldster FC 5–3 Westwood Garden City FC

Waldster hadn’t quite started as they’d hoped, but this result would hopefully see them get back on track. The very first attack saw Joe Dargie head in at the far post from a Brian Buttery lobbed pass. Michael Davidson would equalise, but then Ike Barnes blundered the ball over his own goal line to restore the hosts lead. Tarren Kidd would get the second equaliser from outside the box, only for Joe Dargie’s second to make it 3-2 at the break. Valentine Richmond would get another equaliser from long range. It didn’t matter though, as John Lawler and Michael Cole would get the 3 points for the hosts.

Butterfield Rovers FC 1–1 Marthorpe City FC

A surprise draw in this game, as Marthorpe City dropped points to one of the bottom 3. Jonathan Feld opened the scoring with an inswinging curling shot from 22 metres in the 38th minute. In the second half, under some pressure, Jonathan Holland accidentally put his back pass beyond John Burnie and into the net. Marthorpe City were probably the better side on the day, but couldn’t make it count.

St Astons City FC 1–0 South Maishop FC

A tight and tense game in St Astons, however the hosts managed to eventually get the 3 points. The resolute defence of South Maishop was ultimately broken 5 minutes from the end. Christopher Ace got clear of the defence, and was able to square the ball back into the path of Brian Bayliss. The wise old fox easily steered the ball past Liam Nicholls, to give St Astons the lead, and the eventual winner.

Stanmorn FC 1–2 Kings Lunsel FC

A matchup that some would have thought at the start of the season would feature two title contenders, but it wasn’t that way. Scott Coleman’s 19th minute goal on the break was somewhat against the run of play, but from there on, Stanmorn were looking good for their lead. That was, until the 72nd minute, when Morten Christensen had the chance to level from the spot, which he did. That gave Kings Lunsel new life, and 7 minutes later, Christensen was able to put his laces through the through ball from Hall, to score the winner.

Matchday 13

Kings Lunsel FC 4–4 Langmere Green Rovers FC

A match up between two title contenders always promises to be entertaining, and this one delivered on that promise. Morten Christensen and Victor Adeyemo took full advantage of good positions to make it 2-0 by the half-hour mark. However a quickfire double from Christopher Johnson, both goals close the the 6 yard box, made it 2-2 at the break. Johnson would get his hat trick not long after half-time, this time with a header into the roof of the net. Christensen would equalise however from the spot, and then he got a hat-trick with a powerful drive in the 73rd minute, which Bullivant stood no chance against. But then in the final minutes, Johnson once again found himself in prime position to score, and he got the equaliser.

South Maishop FC 2–3 Stanmorn FC

Two teams with differing opinions on their current positons faced off here. Philip Taylor gave the hosts a somewhat surprising lead, only for Christopher Stowell and Scott Coleman to make sure Stanmorn had the lead at half time. Patricio Munoz’s impressive equaliser would be for nothing, when John Wildman headed a corner into his own net.

Marthorpe City FC 2–1 St Astons City FC

Thomas English’s 20th minute goal from 15 metres out gave the visitors the lead over a Marthorpe City side who were struggling in this game. Ronald Peddie’s tap in however meant it was all even at half-time. The hosts improved in the second half, but the game looked to be heading for a draw. This is, until a scramble in the box in injury time, saw Vivek Soni eventually get the ball over the line, for a last gasp win.

Westwood Garden City FC 1–1 Butterfield Rovers FC

Anthony Johnson took just 46 seconds to open the scoring for Butterfield Rovers in this match. The visitors were looking for a rare win, and that would certainly help. Then in the 62nd minute, Ike Barnes took a free kick from halfway in his own half. It was hit hard, and Logan Shaw misjudged the flight, as it dipped just below the crossbar. The Westwood Garden City goalkeeper had equalised in bizarre circumstances. That would be the final goal of the game.

Carston Green FC 0–1 Waldster FC

Carston Green’s good performance was all for naught, as they came away empty handed. It was only some good defending that stopped Richard Doughty twice from finding the net. Although the hosts looked the better side for much of the game, in injury time, their efforts were undone. Lancelot Wray was played into space, and his shot was well taken to beat Kevin Norton, as the visitors snatched 3 points.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 2–0 Vale FC

Loxthorpe Rovers showed class to beat the struggling Vale in this encounter. David Bowley scored when a free kick wasn’t dealt with properly by the defence of Vale. The defence of Vale would further blight their name, when a mix up saw Steve Leahy deflect the ball out of the path of Ronald Edmonds and into the net. No further goals, as Loxthorpe Rovers won comfortably.

Sporting Towerhaite 0–1 Bavingtor FC

This game was fairly close, but Bavingtor came through with another win. It was Mark Paul who found space in the 54th minute, to shoot accurately into the bottom corner. Sporting Towerhaite had a handful of half-chances to equalise, but couldn’t make anything of it. Bavingtor continue to look like surprise title contenders.

Croxlich FC 3–2 Hadford Hill FC

After a good win last week, Hadford Hill were unable to continue, losing this encounter against Croxlich who had so far surprised a few. Matthew Cope’s header put the hosts in front, before Luke Sturgeon’s fierce effort just before the half time whistle doubled the lead. Leslie Henry’s left footed shot would make it a 3-0 lead. Although Edward Barkes and Alan Holt got on the scoresheet, Croxlich held off the fierce attacks in the final minutes to secure victory.

Matchday 14

Langmere Green Rovers FC 5–1 Hadford Hill FC

Ian McMullan’s chances of landing the Hadford Hill job on a more than permanent basis were all but over after this shambolic display. Christopher Johnson finished off a fine team move to open the scoring. Ramon Martin would get a double, and Paul Rodwell headed in just before the half-time break, to make it 4-0 after 45 minutes. Although Hadford Hill improved and pulled one back via David Michael, teenager Edward Lipinski would finish off an emphatic win for the title-challenging hosts.

Bavingtor FC 2–3 Croxlich FC

Bavingtor finally fell to defeat after their great start to the season, in a result few saw coming. Not long after a scoreless first half, and Roger Hawkes and Mark Paul’s clean finishes put the hosts 2-0 up. However Robert Dyas found a goal from nowhere it seemed. Luke Sturgeon got the equaliser direct from a free kick, before his give and go with Matthew Cope opened up space. Sturgeon took his shot well, and with it finally defeated Bavingtor. The visitors are making a surprise run up the table after promotion.

Vale FC 1–0 Sporting Towerhaite

Vale got their hopes of avoiding the drop back on track with a derby win over Sporting Towerhaite. Raymond Gosling’s hooked shot just before the break was the only goal in this game, giving the hosts victory. More noticeable was the fierceness of the challenges, eventually leading to red cards for Michael Cosgrove of Vale, and Steven Arthur of Sporting Towerhaite.

Waldster FC 2–1 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Waldster ran out winners in a close game in the capital. Joe Dargie’s strike early in the second half seemed to be the catalyst for both sides, after a lethargic first half. Nick Bracken however kept up a good run of form, and drilled in the equaliser with only 12 minutes to go. Then Michael Cole put another good stamp on his growing resume, with his winner from 16 metres out.

Butterfield Rovers FC 1–3 Carston Green FC

Butterfield Rovers continued to struggle in their return to the top tier. Devon Hamilton’s double in the first half put the visitors well on course for victory. John Pearce’s looping effort confirmed it, even if Jonathan White volleyed in a consolation goal.

St Astons City FC 0–1 Westwood Garden City FC

St Astons City continued to slump, as Westwood Garden City pulled a “smash and grab” on them. Tarren Kidd had the visitors first shot on goal, and it was a goal, beating Jon Holmes for pace. The visitors had few chances after that, but it didn’t matter, as St Astons City couldn’t find a way past Ike Barnes.

Stanmorn FC 2–1 Marthorpe City FC

Stanmorn continued to recover from a poor start, beating Marthorpe City, whom were looking like contenders to win the title. A close first half saw Andrew Mason eventually break the deadlock, with a close range goal. However only 34 seconds elapsed in the first half, before Terence Daley put Jonathan Feld’s long ball into the back of the net. The winner came from Scott Coleman, holding off fellow international teammates Ronald Maddox and Mark James to fire home.

Kings Lunsel FC 3–2 South Maishop FC

Kings Lunsel won this encounter, but got complacent and it nearly cost them. Victor Adeyemo raced onto the scoring sheets, getting 2 on the board in just the first 15 minutes. Steven Hall then outskileld the South Maishop defence, to give Kings Lunsel a 3 goal lead. South Maishop looked the weaker side, but Malcolm Golfin’s scruffy goal in the 56th minute gave them some hope. John Bell set up a grandstand finale with just 4 minutes to go, but in injury time, he could only hit a 6 metre shot over the bar, with an almost open goal. 3 points for the hosts, but a bit of a let off.

Matchday 15

South Maishop FC 1–2 Langmere Green Rovers FC

South Maishop again tried to stage a late comeback, but to no avail. Older player James Wootton was the surprise opening scorer in the second half. Ramon Martin would score with a clinical finish to double the lead. Mahtab Ahmad’s close range effort halved the deficit, and set up a close finish, but the visitors held firm to hold the lead at the top of the Super League.

Marthorpe City FC 4–2 Kings Lunsel FC

A competitive game between two strong sides, but the hosts kept resolute to win. Milo Simmons-Bradley curled in a good shot from outside the box to open the scoring. Terence Daley hit home the equaliser, only for Morten Christensen to re-establish a lead a minute later. Julian Simon tap in made it equal just before the break. Clinical finishing from Colt Henderson and Ronald Peddie made the difference for the hosts as they ran out 4-2 winners.

Westwood Garden City FC 0–1 Stanmorn FC

Stanmorn continued on their upwards path, but left it quite late to get the job done. Westwood Garden City offered little going forward, but were hard to break down at the back, in a game that wasn’t exactly a classic. It took some good passing for Scott Coleman to get clear of goal. Ike Barnes did well to get something on his shot, but couldn’t stop Herman Kloscher firing in the rebound to score the only goal of the game.

Carston Green FC 1–1 St Astons City FC

2 teams who’d like to be further up the table could only add one more point to their tally. Robert Hunt gave the hosts the lead with a simple, yet well-taken effort after a defensive lapse. However Brian Bayliss bailed out the visitors in the second half, heading in from a Christopher Ace cross.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 2–0 Butterfield Rovers FC

Loxthorpe Rovers did the job early on to take the points against the struggling visitors. Nick Bracken made it 4 in 5 with pretty much the first attack of the game. The fiercely struck effort by Christopher Dicker would double the lead, and from there on out, Butterfield Rovers never looked like getting back into it.

Sporting Towerhaite 1–4 Waldster FC

Waldster won convincingly on this short away trip, as they try and keep in contention for the IFCF places. John Lawler opened the scoring from the spot, after a careless foul by Hassan Abdulla. Michael Cole got 2 in the first half, both from relatively close range. Joe Dargie rounded off the visitors scoring just before injury time, with a drilled shot. In injury time, Derrick Henry pulled one back, but many fans were already out of the ground by that point.

Croxlich FC 1–3 Vale FC

Vale gave themselves more hope of survival, winning at fellow promoted side Croxlich. A slow paced game was brought to life with the quickfire double by Damon Pearce and Dean Palmer, both from around the 10 metre range. Robert Dyas’ diving header gave the hosts the chance to make a comeback, but Alan Holdsworth’s header of his own finished that off.

Hadford Hill FC 1–1 Bavingtor FC

Ian McMullan already knew he wasn’t continuing after this game as Hadford Hill manager. The surprise relegation contenders got a point against Bavingtor, who themselves were looking to finish off a fine start of the season with a win. Robert Turton’s curled shot gave the visitors the lead, which they held for much of the game. However Anthony Hannigan’s effort in the 81st minute was sublime, and David Meehan could do little to stop it.

Sacked
Butterfield Rovers – Andrew Harris

Sadly for Andrew Harris, his failure to help Butterfield Rovers adapt to the Super League costs him his job. The team are stuck at the bottom, after several poor performances, and with an uphill struggle to stay up, new management is the order of the day for the board.

New hire
James Mealing – Hadford Hill

A veteran manager for many seasons, James Mealing had stood down as manager of Westwood Garden City at the end of 25AU, after stints at several Super League sides. He comes in with his reputation for being a tough manager, but usually adept at the relegation fight, as Hadford Hill bid to stop another tumble in the Challenge League

New hire
Michael Anderson – Butterfield Rovers

Sacked from Stanmorn after 4 losses this season, Michael Anderson is somewhat of a controversial hire by the fans, especially given the quick turnaround. Nevertheless, he helped Stanmorn have an impressive second half of 28AU after crawford’s departure to the national team, and Butterfield Rovers hope to recreate that.

Standings
Super League

Langmere Green Rovers and Marthorpe City are locking horns at the head of the table, both overtaking Bavingtor who drop to 3rd. Kings Lunsel in 4th though lie in wait if those ahead begin to falter, and Waldster in 5th are right in the mix for a IFCF place.

Behind them comes Westwood Garden City and Stanmorn, the former much happier than the latter with their position. Loxthorpe Rovers round out the top half, a fair position given expectations before the season. In 9th lie the surprise package of Croxlich, considered the weakest of the 3 promoted sides by plenty, they’re doing the best so far. 10th for Sporting Towerhaite is decent enough for them, unlike St Astons City who won’t appreciate being only 11th. South Maishop and Carston Green follow them, both teams who would expect to be there, but must be wary of the drop zone.

Vale in 14th were expected to be in the Bottom 3, but have a chance to escape if they can improve relative to those above them. In 15th, a big shock is Hadford Hill. Nothing is going right for them, and another relegation for the once great marquee club is on the cards. Bottom is Butterfield Rovers, they’ve simply failed to flourish in the Super League, and a quick return to the second tier looks likely.

Challenge League

The relegated 3 are the Top 3, although in the reverse order of what most suspected. It looks likely 2 of them will go up automatically, and one will face the playoffs. North Mayshop are looking like surprise contenders to make a playoff appearance, and as it stands would be joined by 2 teams who were considered contenders for the playoffs, Capton Club and Guildwell Football.

Claychester and Gann are impressing in the midtable as it stands, although they’ve both seen a drop in form recently. Towards the bottom, and the other newly promoted sides, Whittlesbury Wanderers and FC North Waldster are struggling with their second tier debuts. It is a bit of a surprise however to see Rumlington Rovers join them in the relegation places as it stands, the east coast side expected to be more mid-table than relegation contenders

Western League

With 41 from 45 so far, it’s hard to see anyone but Havermilly win the division. The playoff race looks competitive, but newly promoted Westwood are joined by Old Marthorpe in those places as it stands. There’s noticeable gaps appearing, which could have a key impact in the race for the National Division 1 places.

2 Hadford based sides, South Hadford United and Hadford Dacorum only have 1 win so far, and increasingly look like they’ll be returning to non-league football soon. However the teams close to them in the table are at risk if the relegation candidates can buck their ideas up.

Eastern League

Buchraston are looking good for an immediate return to the second tier, although the lead is not substantial. Boll Lake Mariners may have expected to be in the playoff picture, but Camber Place weren’t, they’ve had a great season so far. Oxwich Wood ahead of Oxwich is a surprise, but nothing is more surprising than Abbots Lunsel down in 6th in the Eastern League, a powerhouse in the past struggling to get back on track.

Galling Rangers 7AU simply look out of their depth, and seem set to return to non-league yet again. As it stands, they’ll be joined by Henhaven Beachside, who remarkably of the 64 league teams have the lowest goals scored and conceded*.

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Round 3

(SL) Marthorpe City FC 1–1 (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC (1–1 AET) (3–4 pen.)
(CL) Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 4–2 (EL) Locksmith-on-Carron FC
(SL) Waldster FC 4–1 (SL) Bavingtor FC
(SL) Kings Lunsel FC 2–0 (WL) Langpool Capton FC
(EA1) Waldster Junction FC 4–4 (SL) Vale FC (4–6 AET)
(CL) Hopford FC 6–1 (WL) Highhadford FC
(SL) Sporting Towerhaite 3–1 (SL) Hadford Hill FC
(CL) Capton Club 2–1 (EL) Camber Place FC
(CL) FC North Waldster 0–2 (CL) Whittlesbury Wanderers
(WL) Magic Roundabout FC 0–3 (WL) Slaton FC
(CL) Millsea FC 1–0 (CL) Apsbrooke FC
(CL) Henhaven Islanders FC 2–1 (EL) Abbots Lunsel FC
(WL) Old Marthorpe FC 1–3 (CL) Guildwell Football
(WL) Hadford Dacorum FC 1–0 (WL) Caffchin FC
(CL) Binclestead Wood FC 2–2 (CL) North Mayshop FC (2–2 AET) (4–3 pen.)
(CL) Nailwood Mills FC 0–1 (SL) Butterfield Rovers FC

The matchup that probably got the most attention was non-league Waldster Junction hosting Super League Vale. The visitors twice came from behind and were so close to a famous 4-3 victory, before an injury time equaliser by the visitors. The hosts couldn’t handle another 30 minutes, as the Super League side got 2 goals to move to Round 4.

Of the 9 Super League sides left, 6 of them had to face a fellow Super League side, meaning at least 3 were going out in Round 3. The holders Bavingtor were one of those 3, with Waldster comfortably winning 4-1 in that match up. Hadford Hill’s poor season continued in the cup, as they went out to Sporting Towerhaite. The biggest of the 3 all Super League matchups was when the current 2nd placed side faced 1st as it stands. A ggame that was very tight, going all the way to penalties, but visitors Langmere Green Rovers edged it.

There were no inter-division upsets in this round, the only somewhat surprising results were Millsea winning their all Challenge League match against Apsbrooke, and Hadford Dacorum beating Caffchin, both of the Western League. The real surprise is that only 6 of the Super League remain, a lower number than the number of Challenge League sides left (8), and they’re all joined by Slaton and Hadford Dacorum of the third tier Western League.

by **Flavovespia** » Fri Jun 19, 2020 11:54 am

Super League

Matchday 16

Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–0 Bavingtor FC

Langmere Green Rovers returned the favour from the opening day with their own 2-0 win. Paul Rodwell’s glancing header opened the scoring towards the end of the second half. In the second half, another goal from a corner, as Mervyn Button’s header was inadvertently turned into the goal by Joseph Judah. A good win for the title challengers, meanwhile Bavingtor continue to slip away after a good first half.

Hadford Hill FC 1–0 Vale FC

Hadford Hill’s and James Mealing’s road out of relegation began with a win over fellow strugglers Vale. Anthony Hannigan got on the end of a good cross by David Michael, to open the scoring. No goals in the second half, but Hadford Hill always looked like winning, and if this game is anything to go by, may have turned a corner.

Croxlich FC 2–4 Waldster FC

A convincing win for Waldster as they continue to look upwards in the table. Marsden’s first gaol in from the right was nullified by a Matthew Cope tap-in. However John Lawler restored the lead with a typical striker’s finish, and then Richard Bowman scored, with what was originally a cross that looped over everyone, including Ernest Hunter. Michael Cole would finish off the scoring for the visitors late on, and Robert Dyas’ injury time strike was nothing more than a mere consolation.

Sporting Towerhaite 2–2 Butterfield Rovers FC

A game that swung back and forth, but ultimately no knockout blow for either side. Keith Murray and Ian Wallace would both score from set piece plays to make it 1-1. John Mason’s open goal strike could have given Michael Anderson a debut victory as manager of Butterfield Rovers, but Derrick Henry’s low driven effort extinguished those hopes.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0–1 St Astons City FC

Only one goal in this game, from a surprising source. On the half-hour mark, good build up play saw Marc Sharratt have a shot acrobatically tipped away by Lucky Diamond. However 18 year old right back David Robb ran into the box, and his shot was smashed into the roof of the net. Not the most calm or composed of finishes, but it did the job to take the 3 points back to St Astons.

Carston Green FC 3–0 Stanmorn FC

A good win to push Carston Green towards safety, against a Stanmorn side who up to this point, had looked like improving. Michael Morley opened the scoring, a good passing sequence opening up the space for him to finish. Not long later, a blunder at the back left Raymond Wilson with all the time in the world to score, and that he did. John Appleby’s red card in the 80th minute made things worse for the visitiors. The win was finished off with a George Bunting left footed effort.

Westwood Garden City FC 2–3 Kings Lunsel FC

Kings Lunsel made hard work of this game, but got the 3 points in the end. Steven Hall did what he did best, a great run, a cut inside and a curling finish to open the scoring. However loose passes in the midfield twice allowed Leslie Heads and Tarren Kidd to get themselves on the scoresheet, and the home team the lead. The visitors worked hard in the second half, and Steven Hall equalised on the volley. Then, Milo Simmons-Bradley met a Steven Hall ball and hit it hard into the net, to win it.

Marthorpe City FC 4–2 South Maishop FC

Marthorpe City continued their title fight with this win. Ronald Peddie and Terence Daley both scored from inside the box to make it 2-0 before the break. Terence Daley then got another to seemingly create a comfortable lead. However lapses in focus allowed John Bell to get a double for the visitors, and he was sniffing out a hat-trick and an equaliser for the rest of the game. The visitors however, were too aggressive in attack, and Jonathan Feld would finish off a quick attack at the other end. After a bright start, there’s worries about the slide by South Maishop, now 5 games in a row lost.

Matchday 17

Marthorpe City FC 2–0 Langmere Green Rovers FC

A big game going into this matchday, 2nd placed Marthorpe City knew a win would see them overtake leaders Langmere Green Rovers. A tight game had the deadlock broken when Colt Henderson’s through ball was met by Ronald Peddie and put beyond the reach of Andrew Bullivant. With time running out, Langmere Green Rovers attacked hard, but were exposed at the back and Ronald Peddie took advantage to double up his tally for the match. A good game between the Top 2.

South Maishop FC 6–1 Westwood Garden City FC

South Maishop ended their losing streak in spectacular fashion. What seemed to be a relatively quiet game sparked into life when John Bell took the cross of Thomas Carr on his chest, knocked it down and hit it into the net. From there, the Westwood Garden City defence fell apart. John Bell cut through them like a hot knife through butter to get his 2nd, then Malcolm Golfin was left unmarked to head in. Less than 10 minutes after the opener, and John Bell chipped Ike Barnes for his hat-trick, and the fourth for the hosts. John Bell added another 2 after the break, making it 6-0 on the hour. Tarren Kidd got a goal in the 83rd minute from the edge of the box, but by that point many of the away fans had given up.

Kings Lunsel FC 4–1 Carston Green FC

Kings Lunsel showed they weren’t going to give up their title easily, with an impressive win. It didn’t start well for the visitors. Just 45 seconds in, and under pressure from Steven Hall, Joel Wood turned his back pass towards Kevin Norton wayward and into the net. Although Tariq Din equalised from 8 metres out, the hosts looked on top, and Brian Woodcock soon restored the lead, drilling it in from a tight angle. Carston Green never looked like getting back into it, and Morten Christensen’s double confirmed that.

Stanmorn FC 4–0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

An emphatic win for Stanmorn, who look to try and make a run into the Top 4. A close game saw Scott Coleman taken clean out by David Bowley, and a straight red for that was shown. The hosts never looked back. James King scored the ensuing free kick. In the second half, Scott Coleman would score a trademark finish, beating the defence for pace and slotting past Lucky Diamond accurately. The 10 men of Loxthorpe Rovers were fatigued by the end, and Sean McClafferty took advantage to get on the scoresheet. Poor marking left Neil Wright free to finish off the scoring in injury time.

St Astons City FC 1–0 Sporting Towerhaite

A game that was settled early on. In the 7th minute Christopher Ace had the space to curl in a shot from the right, that beat Lawrence Furrer on the far post. From there on in, it looked like St Astons City would take all 3 points, as Sporting Towerhaite offered little in response. Not a spectacular game, but 3 points St Astons City will be pleased with.

Butterfield Rovers FC 1–0 Croxlich FC

Butterfield Rovers showed they still have fight in them, as Michael Anderson got his first win as a manager this season. Much of the game was lacking any major action. In the 73rd minute, Gary Watson latched on to a David Smith pass, steering it into the goal, even if the shot was a bit wild. It was enough to take 3 points, against a side who were further from the relegation zone than many predicted.

Waldster FC 1–1 Hadford Hill FC

The form book can go out of the window when derbies come around, and to some extent we saw this today. For many periods, it wasn’t Hadford Hill who looked like the side in danger of going down, but the hosts Waldster. David Michael’s cut in and shot opened the scoring, and could’ve set up a vital victory. However Brian Buttery’s deep ball in was met perfectly by John Lawler first time, and the Hadford Hill defence and keeper Wayne Shaw could do nothing about. The game finished 1-1, a let off for the hosts, but the visitors will think it’s a derby match they could’ve won.

Vale FC 2–2 Bavingtor FC

Vale left it late, but managed to salvage something from this game. Michael Upton opened up the scoring early on, sprinting past the defence and knocking it past Ronald Edmonds. Not long before the break, and Clive Turner finished off a swing in momentum to the hosts, with a deft finish beyond David Meehan. Joseph Judah made up for last matchday’s error, putting a header into the right goal this time. That looked to have settled it, but from an injury time corner, Alan Holdsworth met a badly cleared ball, and squeezed a shot past 2 defenders to equalise.

Matchday 18

Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–1 Vale FC

Despite valiant efforts by the visitors, Langmere Green Rovers got themselves victory and 3 points at home. A first half dominated by chances for the hosts, but Ronald Edmonds was in great form. His resolve was eventually broken in the 68th minute. He could only deflect Ramon Martin’s fierce effort into the path of Christopher Johnson, who hit it home. Clive Turner however equalised, with a quick attack that left the defence napping. But, with time ticking away, Johnson came up again with the goods, this time heading in from Murad Ahmed’s ball in.

Bavingtor FC 0–1 Waldster FC

Waldster came to Bavingtor knowing a win would move them above the hosts, and win they did. Just before half time, and a good attack saw Michael Cole strike the post. Thankfully for Waldster, the ball fell at the feet of Buttery less than 2 metres out, who had no difficulty to tap it in. Bavingtor played well in the second half, but couldn’t get on the scoresheet, and Waldster would win.

Hadford Hill FC 1–1 Butterfield Rovers FC

Hadford Hill and Butterfield Rovers remain unbeaten under their new managers, but neither can be too happy with only a point. Gary Watson gave the visitors a somewhat surprising lead, after he dummied out Sailin Sheth and then slotted past Wayne Shaw. His work however was undone, when David Michael’s cross bounced off the knee of Ian Wallace and ended up over the line. Neither team mustered good enough chances to score in the second half, and both take just 1 point from the game.

Croxlich FC 1–1 St Astons City FC

Croxlich proved to be tricky hosts for the visitors in this game, snatching a point against the run of play. Marc Sharratt opened the scoring up when he was badly defended, and had enough time and space to shoot into the top corner. For much of the game, the visitors were on top, but couldn’t extend their lead. Then, with little time left, Matthew Cope got goalside of the defence, and played a through ball into the path of Luke Sturgeon, who’s shot was straight past Jon Holmes and into the net, an unlikely equaliser.

Sporting Towerhaite 0–0 Stanmorn FC

This derby game had no goals, and somehow no red cards. In a match devoid of much action in the first half, the second saw some meaty challenges and tempers grew. By the 83rd minute, Alan Price’s tackle on Scott Coleman was deemed firm but fair by the ref, only for Price to be shoved over by Mason as the whistle went for Coleman to get treatment. Several players bundled into the row, but the referee saw no reason to send anyone off, despite having the option of reviewing the trouble. Aidan Hackney and Jamie Walker were unimpressed in their post-match interviews.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 0–0 Kings Lunsel FC

No goals, as Lucky Diamond proved his worth to Loxthorpe Rovers. In the space of 5 minute he blocked some great efforts by Steven Hall and Morten Christensen, who got clear of the defence. Loxthorpe Rovers had Gary Carr give Robert Jones a good test in the 66th minute, but aside from that, little was on offer from the hosts.

Carston Green FC 3–2 South Maishop FC

After their 6-1 win, South Maishop returned to their “close but no cigar” comebacks. Alexander Evans and Malcolm Golfin both got close range efforts in the first half. In the second, Devon Hamilton’s low drilled effort and a floating header from Benjamin Potter seemed to make it comfortable for the hosts. Then, Jason Hammonds scored from 22 metres out on the brink of half time. Then, in the 4th minute of injury time, a scramble from a corner saw Malcolm Golfin and Patricio Munoz both have a shot blocked off the line, the latter just 8cm from being a goal. A nervy 3 points in the end for Carston Green.

Westwood Garden City FC 4–3 Marthorpe City FC

The visitors were taken back by Westwood Garden City, who banished their last result from memory. Terence Daley made a quick impact, scoring from Jonathan Feld’s killer pass in the 4th minute. In the second half, Ronald Peddie’s early strike seemed to set the tone for a comfortable win. However Graham Ness fired in a goal not long later. Then, Michael Upton got an equaliser from close range, sliding in from a Valentine Richmond low cross. Ronald Peddie restored the lead, with a half-volley 11 metres out. However Michael Upton got another equaliser, this time heading in from a corner. With time running out, Marthorpe City couldn’t clear their lines, and Valentine Richmond got the 3 points, hitting it into the roof of the net from close to the penalty spot.

Matchday 19

Westwood Garden City FC 2–0 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Westwood Garden City got another surprise win over one of the title contender. One of the breakout stars of this season, Valentine Richmond found the net again, this time a shot into the top right corner from the edge of the box. Tarren Kidd finished off the game with a well struck penalty, that Andrew Bullivant couldn’t reach.

Marthorpe City FC 3–0 Carston Green FC

Marthorpe City made up for their loss last time, winning easily with a strong second-half display. Terence Daley made up for a glaring miss in the first half, when he buried a penalty into the bottom corner in the 50th minute. Marthorpe City were them in control. Andrew Payne was unfortunate to have an own goal on his record, after Peddie’s header from a corner ricocheted off the post, off Payne’s back, and into the net. In injury time, Julian Simon, on as a sub, put it past Kevin Norton with the visitors switched off at the back. A good win as the title race continues to heat up.

South Maishop FC 0–2 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

South Maishop seemed to struggle with another loss, not at all reminiscent of the side who did so well earlier on in the year. Young Andrew Brocklehurst took full advantage of a rare start, the 17 year old clinically finishing when he latched on to Somers’ through ball. A quick one-two between Gary Carr and Andrew Brocklehurst saw the former score the second in the game, with Liam Nicholls left exposed by the defence.

Kings Lunsel FC 3–2 Sporting Towerhaite

A win that was more convincing than the scoreline suggests. Victor Adeyemo returned from injury and was back up to pace quickly, taking just 8 minutes to tuck the ball into the net. Derrick Henry’s equaliser from long range was impressive, but Steven Hall responded in kind to restore the lead. Scott Gibson was on as an early sub after Morten Christensen limped off, and the sub got on the scoresheet from close range close to the break. Although Derrick Henry got a second, Sporting Towerhaite never really looked like getting an equaliser, in many ways Kings Lunsel should’ve had more.

Stanmorn FC 3–1 Croxlich FC

It took a while, but Stanmorn got themselves the 3 points in the end. Things didn’t start well for the visitors, when clumsy passing at the back gave Matthew Cope the opportunity to score an easy opener, which he did. Croxlich outdid that calamity though minutes later. Aarif Muhammad’s long clearance was travelling all the way to the opposite box. Ernest Hunter had called for it, but defender Martin Buckley, under a bit of pressure from Scott Coleman, tried to also go for it. The collision between goalkeeper and defender meant both missed the ball. Coleman then shielded it over the line, giving Aarif Muhammad, the goalkeeper of Stanmorn, a goal. 1-1 for much of the game, James King finally broke the deadlock, a curling free kick beating Hunter. Then with Croxlich throwing everything forward, Andrew Mason received the ball and his long dribble with no defenders in sight was finished off with a goal.

St Astons City FC 3–2 Hadford Hill FC

The second derby match between these 2 classic rivals, and one that was as memorable as the first. A frantic first half somehow remained goalless. It didn’t stay that way for long in the second half. A somewhat controversial penalty was converted by Edward Barkes, and then Ryan Hawkins doubled the lead for the visitors, heading in from a well worked free kick routine. However, there was 7 minutes in heaven for St Astons City and Marc Sharratt. Not once, not twice, but thrice were his shots rewarded with a goal, as he scored quite possibly the greatest hat-trick he ever will score. St Astons City had turned it around, and won 3-2, piling more pressure on their rivals.

Butterfield Rovers FC 2–0 Bavingtor FC

Whilst not as intense as Binclestead Wood’s matchups with Bavingtor, Butterfield Rovers and Bavingtor still have a strong rivalry. The hosts were bottom to begin the matchday, but they didn’t let that stop them. John Morrissey wasn’t a common feature on the starting sheet, and was an even rarer one on the scoresheet. However his curling shot surprised even himself it seemed, and he opened the scoring early on. The visitors had the majority of chances, but couldn’t take them. In contrast, Butterfield Rovers had fewer, but were more clinical. Max Watson exemplified this, with his effort in the 62nd minute from a tight angle beating David Meehan at his near post. The national team starting goalkeeper was seemingly having an off-day, sadly against one of his club’s rivals.

Waldster FC 2–0 Vale FC

A match that pretty much went as the form and table predicted. Chester Brooks made light work of the Vale defence to tuck away his shot beyond the reach of former Waldster goalkeeper Ronald Edmonds. Edmonds himself then gifted his former side a goal. Michael Cole’s shot wasn’t exactly fierce, but Edmonds somehow spilled it out of his grasp, and he pushed it over the line before clawing it away from the goal. To add insult to injury, it was classified as an own goal. Waldster continue to look on course for an IFCF place, and maybe even an outside chance of a run to the title.

Matchday 20

Langmere Green Rovers FC 4–3 Waldster FC

This game will go into the books as an absolute classic for the Super League, except maybe for Waldster fans. Not even halfway through the first half, and Michael Marsden scored from just inside the box, John Lawler headed in at close range, and Brian Buttery scored direct from a free-kick. 0-3, and some of the home crowd were booing in disgust. But then, with 7 minutes to go before half-time, Ramon Martin turned a half chance into a goal. Anpele Zork put the hosts back with a shout mere minutes later, and then on the brink of half time, Martin turned Sean Callery’s cross into the net, making it 3-3 at half-time. A tight second half with some good chances but with no decisive strikes as the injury time board went up was set to finish a draw. But then, Ramon Martin mustered the energy to turn, get the space for a shot, and drilled it past Jonathan Swain. His hat-trick complete, the comeback complete, he threw off his shirt and leapt into the crowd of jubilant home fans. A game for the ages.

Vale FC 1–1 Butterfield Rovers FC

These 2 teams were fighting a relegation battle, and a match like this certainly explains why. John Mason’s 32nd minute goal was a result of Michael Cosgrove heading a clearance straight into his path, leaving Geoff Ashcroft (replacing Ronald Edmonds in goal) powerless to stop the opener. Dean Palmer would go on to equalise however. This was hardly a “goal of the season” either, his 14 metre shot was tame and looked easy to stop, but Logan Shaw misread it and it went in. Logan Shaw wasn’t playing well this season, and calls for him to be replaced with Richard Woolley or even highly rated teen Nathan Crewe grew. 1-1, between two sides who came up from the Challenge League last season and seem to want to return there based on this match.

Bavingtor FC 1–1 St Astons City FC

Bavingtor made it 7 games now without victory, the early title contenders now falling back towards the middle of the table it seemed. Midfielder William Edwards was able to give Bavingtor the lead, when he was played into a great position by Mark Paul and finished well. However the equaliser came when Christopher Ace exploited space to beat Anthony Barnes and Christopher Hemingway, and blasted a shot into the net. The second half had some good opportunities, in particular from Mark Paul, but he couldn’t find the net for the home team.

Hadford Hill FC 1–0 Stanmorn FC

Hadford Hill’s hopes of a recovery grew with this win over a Stanmorn side who still had hopes of reaching the Top 4, despite their position in the table. The goal that settled it came from Edward Barkes. After David Michael’s great curling effort was tipped onto the bar by Aarif Muhammad, it bounced back in play, and Barkes got a toe to it first to turn it in. Stanmorn struggled to muster a strong attack in the second half, as Hadford Hill finally looked like the team they could be on paper.

Croxlich FC 1–1 Kings Lunsel FC

Croxlich had been on a bit of a slide, but were hopeful this draw against Kings Lunsel could stop that. The hosts took a surprise lead when Matthew Cope hit a shot through the legs of Robert Dixon and past Robert Jones. Sadly for the hosts, hopes of a surprise win were ended by the impressive dribbling skills of Steven Hall, who got past 2 defenders before his shot on target to score. 1-1 in the end, a point that could prove useful for the hosts. For the visitors, a missed opportunity to make up ground in the title race.

Sporting Towerhaite 2–1 South Maishop FC

Both these sides were lacking somewhat in recent matchdays, but Sporting Towerhaite pulled off another late goal to take the 3 points. Patricio Munoz showed no signs of age, beating the defence for pace before slotting in past Lawrence Furrer. However, the hosts turned it around in the second half. Nick Massey’s cross was chested by Anthony Miles, before a good volley past Liam Nicholls. Then, in the dying minutes, a free kick saw the ball whipped into the box, and David Clark got there first, flicking it into the net, winning it for the home team.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 2–0 Marthorpe City FC

Loxthorpe Rovers were enigmatic this season, playing brilliantly or appallingly with seemingly no pattern at times. This game was one of the former. Despite being top of the table as the matchday begun, Marthorpe City struggled to keep up with the hosts. Stephen Nichols goal in the 39th minute was hardly a spectacular strike, but it was well deserved for the hosts. In the second half, Gary Carr’s close range effort was enough to secure the 3 points. Loxthorpe Rovers outclassed their title chasing opponents, a match that begs the question of why Carter Cromwell’s side can’t play like this every game. Even more ironically, this win and great performance for Loxthorpe Rovers is a boost to their rivals Langmere Green Rovers.

Carston Green FC 1–0 Westwood Garden City FC

The 2 Western sides played out a game that wasn’t a thriller, but a win that the hosts probably deserved based on the 90 minutes. The only goal came when Jamie Taylor’s cross was deflected out of the path of George Bunting, but towards Robert Hunt. The old striker was handed the opportunity on a plate, and tucked it past an off-balance Ike Barnes. Carston Green looked mostly secure in their defence, other than a couple of nervy moments, taking a good 3 points.

Sacked
Malcolm Mace – South Maishop

1 win in 8 games, and with South Maishop sliding towards relegation, and Malcolm Mace has sadly been sacked. Formerly of Nailwood Mills until joining South Maishop at the start of 28AU, Mace was relatively popular in South Maishop, but the recent run of poor form has seen the board choose to dismiss him, fearing relegation if changes weren’t made. Assistant manager John Davis comes in as interim replacement until the end of the season.

Standings
Super League

The battle at the top has swung back and forth, and with 10 games to go, Langmere Green Rovers on 42 points have a 1 point lead over Marthorpe City. However, with 38 points and 36 points respectively, Kings Lunsel and Waldster can’t be ruled out for a late run to the top of the table.

Bavingtor haven’t been able to sustain their strong start, and have fallen to 5th, and looking less like making the IFCF places with each Matchday, although they’re still in with a chance. Next is a tight cluster of teams. Stanmorn and St Astons City have turned it around and are now at least in the top half. Westwood Garden City would probably be happy to finish 8th.

Loxthorpe Rovers have been inconsistent this season, leaving them down in 9th. Carston Green and Sporting Towerhaite are both having so-so seasons, occupying the lower reaches of mid-table and just glancing over their shoulder at the relegation contenders. Croxlich were impressing early on, but are slowly drifting into the relegation battle. South Maishop have 7 losses in 8, just a big 6-1 victory their only points in a torrid spell, leaving them right in a relegation fight.

They’ve improved somewhat, but the once great Hadford Hill are still in the relegation fight, and will have to get wins on the board to stay up. Butterfield Rovers are also better than before, but are still paying the price for a poor start. Vale are bottom, looking the weakest of the newly promoted sides, but not yet out of it.

Challenge League

Binclestead Wood narrowly lead over Apsbrooke. The two teams seen as heavy favourites look like they may just be stretching out a lead, to make an immediate return to the Super League.

Batchingtonwood Rovers have fallen a little off the pace in 3rd, but last season’s Super League debutants have probably exceeded expectations. So too have 4th placed Gann, a newly promoted side who as it stands would have the chance of a double promotion. Good form takes Henhaven Islanders back into the playoff places, and North Mayshop still continue to occupy a spot, albeit their position isn’t as strong as before, only ahead on goal difference of the “undrawables” Capton Club, who have 10 wins and 10 losses after 20 games.

At the bottom, a gap seems to be opening up between 13th and the bottom 3. Rumlington Rovers are struggling to get back to safety, and a 6 season stint in the second tier, following Super League relegation in 23AU is close to an end it seems. For second tier first timers FC North Waldster and Whittlesbury Wanderers, it looks like too much of a step up, and a return to more familiar territory is on the cards.

Western League

A 5-4 loss at Magic Roundabout finally ended Havermilly’s unbeaten streak. However with 51 points from 20, they look in great shape to go up. It’s only the very impressive 46 points from newly promoted Westwood that’s keeping the Western League title fight somewhat close. Slaton, hoping for an immediate bounce back to the Challenge League, lead the battle for the final playoff spot.

The Top 7 or so look like they’re closing in on the National League Divison 1 next season. It’s Saltearth in the final spot, holding off the likes of Vitarias Legion and Caffchin in the battle for the top half.

Whilst it’s not yet mathematically over, South Hadford United and Hadford Dacorum have struggled, and look set to drop into the Western Alliance D1. It’s only the underperforming Highhadford that’s keeping up a relegation battle in this division.

Eastern League

Buchraston continue to lead the Eastern League as they hope to return to the Challenge League after last season’s relegation. However, their lead over Abbots Lunsel is only 4 points, and a lot of people think the historical powerhouse at one point could catch the leaders. Boll Lake Mariners are in the final playoff spot, keen to avenge their playoff final loss last year.

The race for the National League Division 1 is looking close. 4th placed Buchraston Heath are only 5 points ahead of 11th placed Woodbrook, and anyone in that range can’t be ruled in or out at this stage.

Galling Rangers 7AU look set to drop back into the Eastern Alliance D1, on their current position and points. 5 losses in a row has put Radstye Rangers in the drop zone. Their abysmal form in recent games has allowed the Henhaven duo to move up as it stands. The battle to avoid the drop to non-league will likely be between these 3 sides.

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Round 4

(CL) Guildwell Football 2–3 (CL) Batchingtonwood Rovers FC

James McGarry 3, Martin Curtis 23

17 Franco Ferretti, 29 Zac Wood, 69 Jaxson Henderson

James McGarry got the hosts off to a great start, beating Craig Maughan at his near post. Franco Ferretti would equalise with a low driven shot beyond Michael Narayan. Martin Curtis saw his header cancelled out by Zak Wood’s effort from the edge of the box. A close game between the two second tier sides was settled when Jaxson Henderson got through one on one, and slotted a ball into the bottom corner. Batchingtonwood Rovers get the win in a tricky tie, to advance to the quarter finals.

(WL) Slaton FC 1–4 (SL) Waldster FC

Michael Becker 66

8 Own Goal, 11 Michael Cole ,15 Michael Cole, 37 Michael Cole

Slaton had a draw that was tough on paper, but one that could prove to be a classic cup match. Sadly for the hosts, it was anything but that. A calamitous mix up at the back resulted in an own goal after just 8 minutes. A quickfire double by Cole made it 0-3 with only 15 minutes played, and the Waldster striker finished off his hat-trick before the half was done. Michael Becker got a goal for Slaton in the second half, but they were pretty much down and out by that point.

(SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC 2–0 (CL) Henhaven Islanders FC

Peter Hickman 23, Imran Ahmed 74

Some squad rotation for the title challengers, but nevertheless a comfortable win to move into the quarter finals. Peter Hickman settled the nerves nicely, with a 23 metre goal, possibly the goal of the round. From there, the Islanders didn’t look like making a comeback, and Imran Ahmed’s finish after good build up play confirmed that.

(CL) Capton Club 2–1 (SL) Kings Lunsel FC

Richard Foster 51, Richard Foster 93

55 Brian Woodcock

The magic of the cup was really on display in what could be one of the matches of the tournament. A rotated Kings Lunsel side looked strong throughout the first half, but couldn’t break down the stubborn defence of Capton Club. Many thought the second half would go the same way, but in the 51st minute, 20 year old Richard Foster latched onto a cross and steered the ball past Darryl Thompson to open the scoring up. Brian Woodcock just 4 minutes later finally broke down the home defence to equalise. It looked to be going to extra time, but then Ronald McIntyre, former Kings Lunsel player got a clear sight of goal. His shot was parried, but only into the path of Foster. He smashed it home, and leapt into the adoring crowd, some of whom began a slightly premature pitch invasion. Nothing Kings Lunsel could do with a minute left, and the Super League holders go out at the fourth round.

(SL) Vale FC 6–3 (SL) Butterfield Rovers FC

Paul Crowley 8, Dean Palmer 13, Dean Palmer 29, Dean Palmer 33, Bo Tsang 59, Bo Tsang 66

18 Gary Watson, 52 Apostolos Antoniou, 85 Max Watson

If the Super League match between these two was a dull, dry affair, this was the absolute opposite of that. Paul Crowley opened the scoring up with a somewhat fortuitous miscued header. 5 minutes later, and Dean Palmer was more accurate with his head, and the outcome was the same. Gary Watson’s shot put the visitors back in touch, only for Palmer’s 4 minute double to get a hat-trick. 4-1 at half time. Apostolos Antoniou cut inside and shot was accurate, Nathan Crewe unable to do much about it. However a Bo Tsang double made it 6-2, 16 goals so far in the cup for Vale. Max Watson’s tidy finish near the end was little more than a consolation for the visitors.

(CL) Whittlesbury Wanderers 1–0 (CL) Hopford FC

Gerald Gauci 90

A very close nailbiting game between 2 second tier sides, but the hosts got the injury time goal to go through to the quarter finals. A nervy game, with some missed opportunities and wayward passes, it looked set for another 30 minutes. However, a late free kick saw the ball whipped in to the box. The ball was initially punched clear, but fired back into the box. Gauci got there first, sliding in and getting enough on the ball to turn it into the net. Joy for the home side, struggling in the league but now one of just 8 sides left in the Flavovespia Gold Cup.

(CL) Binclestead Wood FC 1–0 (WL) Hadford Dacorum FC

Mark Page 57

On paper, this game should have been a comfortable win for Binclestead Wood. In reality, they were forced to work hard for it, although their skill eventually shone through. Hadford Dacorum weren’t convincing at all in attack, but getting bodies behind the ball was working well for them. Eventually they faltered, and loose marking from a corner saw Mark Page have an easy flick of the ball into the goal. The visitors looked better in attack after going a goal down, but couldn’t get the equaliser. Binclestead Wood add a cup run alongside their push for promotion back to the Super League.

(CL) Millsea FC 2–0 (SL) Sporting Towerhaite

Paul Stewart 25, John Payne 78

Sporting Towerhaite were stunned as they were outclassed by Millsea, in this cup upset. The hosts seemed to easily go toe to toe with their opponents. In the 25th minute, a free kicked was drilled in, and Stephen Williams didn’t take it cleanly. Paul Stewart got to the loose ball first, and put the visitors in the lead. With time beginning to wind out, Sporting Towerhaite let their defences slip. John Payne got through the back, and finished off his run with a good finish, doubling the lead. Millsea make it to the quarter finals, with a good upset.

by **Flavovespia** » Wed Jun 24, 2020 1:39 pm

Super League

Matchday 21

Carston Green FC 2–1 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Top before the start of this Matchday, Langmere Green Rovers were left flat-footed by Carston Green. The hosts rapid start put them 2 goals to the good with strikers Richard Doughty and George Bunting delivering. Tony Elvidge’s shot across the face of goal and in off the far post gave the visitors hope of an equaliser or more, but they couldn’t deliver.

Westwood Garden City FC 1–0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

This game wasn’t a classic, but finished in style. With time running out, Michael Upton received a long ball from Valentine Richmond on his head. He flicked it around Ernest Cliff, before volleying past Lucky Diamond to score a brilliant injury time winner. A close game between two mid table sides, but the hosts edged it in the end.

Marthorpe City FC 3–1 Sporting Towerhaite

It was close for large parts, but the quality of Marthorpe City shone through in their bid to win the title. A good start for the home side was capped off by Terence Daley’s curling shot going in at the far post. However Anthony Miles would capitalise on a loose pass out from the back to equalise. Both team had chances in the second half, but Terence Daley restored the lead with his second, a right-footed effort from 11 metres out. Julian Simon would head in from Colt Henderson’s delivery into the box to give Marthorpe City a key 3 points.

South Maishop FC 4–2 Croxlich FC

A relegation six-pointer was John Davis’ first game in charge of South Maishop this season. It didn’t start well, Matthew Cope exploiting a defensive error to open up the scoring. John Bell would equalise with a close effort after a free kick wasn’t dealt with. Jason Hammond’s shot across goal from the edge of the box put the visitors in the lead, only for Cope to quickly respond. However Mahtab Ahmad and Patricio Munoz delivered a two minute killer blow to give the visitors and new man in the dugout Davis 3 big points.

Kings Lunsel FC 0–0 Hadford Hill FC

Both these sides needed a win for almost opposite reasons, but neither could even get on the scoresheet, in a match dominated by defence. For the hosts, Steven Hall’s curling shot from range that clipped the crossbar was their closest effort. Hadford Hill had less efforts and less quality, although Anthony Hannigan did force a good save out of Robert Jones. No goal in a nervous encounter.

Stanmorn FC 1–1 Bavingtor FC

2 teams in the top half met in Stanmorn, playing out a relatively entertaining 1-1 draw. Mark Paul’s fierce shot from a deflected corner was the opener. Stanmorn had plenty of attacks, and eventually Andrew Mason had a clear sight of goal, and put the ball right into the corner. Anthony Barnes came very close late on, but his shot ricocheted off the post and Neil Wright cleared it.

St Astons City FC 1–0 Vale FC

Marc Sharratt’s 19th minute goal, after a good solo run was the only goal in this game. Vale struggled to create any substantial attacks, and always looked second best. St Astons City keep their hopes of an IFCF place alive, Vale meanwhile drop ever closer to the drop.

Butterfield Rovers FC 2–1 Waldster FC

Butterfield Rovers picked up 3 key, albeit fortuitous points against Waldster. The visitors looked better, but the home team’s first attack saw Max Watson brought down by keeper Jonathan Swain. Max’s brother Gary sent Swain the wrong way, and the visitors lead. Not for long, as Joe Dargie’s shot from a tight angle beat Nathan Crewe. With time running out, John Mason’s speculative long range shot hit the crossbar. However it then struck Swain, who couldn’t recover the ball in time to stop it crossing the line. 2-1 and Butterfield Rovers breathed life into their chances of staying up.

Matchday 22

Langmere Green Rovers FC 3–0 Butterfield Rovers FC

After their previous match ended in a loss, Langmere Green Rovers were out to return to winning ways. Butterfield Roves had no answer for Christopher Johnson, who after 10 minutes had 2 goals on the board. He them turned supplier in the 58th minute, his through ball setting up Ramon Martin to finish off the win. Langmere Green Rovers take 3 points to continue the title fight, but Butterfield Rovers remain in the relegation zone.

Waldster FC 5–4 St Astons City FC

Another contender for match of the season, this derby definitely delivered. It was the visitors opening the scoring, with Marc Sharratt slotting a shot down low past Conor Harrington. He was starting in goal for the home team in the Super League for the first time since his original departure in 24AU. John Lawler and Michael Cole both got goals with right-footed efforts to put Waldster in the lead, only for Victor Cooke to equalise before half time. In the second half, John Lawler’s second was struck back by the second of Marc Sharratt. Brian Buttery made it 4-3 with a looping long range shot past Jon Holmes, only for old-timer Brian Bayliss to add yet another equaliser this game, a good shot from just inside the box. Then, with time running out, substitute Joe Dargie met a corner first, and headed down and hard, the ball bouncing up into the roof of the net. 5-4, in a memorable match.

Vale FC 1–2 Stanmorn FC

Vale’s suffering continued with this derby loss that wasn’t as close as the scoreline suggests. Early weaknesses at the back allowed Andrew Mason an easy opportunity to open the scoring, which he took coolly. Scott Coleman doubled the lead before half time, with a skilful shot into the corner. Vale were struggling for most of the game, but had a flash of hope when Vlad Lodzinski scored against the run of play, 11 minutes from the end. However the hosts could muster no more good attacks, and Stanmorn held on easily. The visitors aspirations of the Top 4 aren’t yet over, but the hosts hope of staying up maybe are.

Bavingtor FC 1–2 Kings Lunsel FC

A late comeback in this game, as Kings Lunsel did enough to get 3 points and stay in the title chase. The title chasers didn’t start well, and just 51 seconds was all it took for Paul Bradley’s ball forward to be met by Roger Hawkes, who shot through the legs of Tony Gardner and beyond Robert Jones. Nervy defending by the hosts eventually allowed Brian Woodcock to turn in a skewed shot to equalise. With time running out, a deep ball by Uuel Bon-Ami was headed down and in by Victor Adeyemo, the visitors taking 3 points after being behind for alot of the game.

Hadford Hill FC 1–2 South Maishop FC

A late goal that could have big relegation ramifications here in Highland Road. John Bell gave the visitors a surprise lead, when he met Mahtab Ahmad’s floated cross and put his header beyond Wayne Shaw. David Michael equalised, with a good dribble and finessed finish, he’s been a rare bright start in a tough season for Hadford Hill. Then in injury time, a long ball forward was met by Malcolm Golfin at pace, and he slotted it home to give the visitors 3 points, John Davis a second consecutive win, and leave Hadford Hill in more relegation trouble.

Croxlich FC 1–2 Marthorpe City FC

2 teams still with a lot to play for met in this match up. Minor injuries for both Terence Daley and Ronald Peddie would play a part in the young Michael Aldred starting. Not that his age showed, after Jonathan Feld’s initial effort was blocked, Aldred was first to the rebound and slotted it in. Doron Aldra then doubled the lead after the break, taking advantage of a corner that wasn’t fully dealt with. Matthew Cope added to his growing goal tally, but Croxlich weren’t able to get an all important equaliser.

Sporting Towerhaite 3–0 Westwood Garden City FC

Having drifted towards the relegation battle, Sporting Towerhaite took a big 3 points with a good 3-0 win at home. Early pressure paid off when Keith Murray met George White’s low pass and turned it in. Derrick Henry the doubled the lead with a clever free kick that went under the wall and caught Ike Barnes out. Nick Massey headed in from another clever free kick routine on the cusp of half time. Sporting Towerhaite played it more defensively in the second half, and finished as comfortable winners.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 2–0 Carston Green FC

2 teams who’s seasons will more than likely end with mid-table finishes played out this match. It was a close first half, but the hosts dialled in the pressure for the second half. Nick Bracken would open the scoring, meeting the cross of Terence Neil with a simple tap-in. Gary Carr finished off the game with his 14 metre shot across goal and into the net.

Sacked – Vale
Nathan Kent

With 8 games to go, it’s a bit of a surprise that Nathan Kent is now sacked. However, the failure of Vale to improve, and the manner of their defeat to rivals Stanmorn, have resulted in him seeing the door. Tough at this stage of the season, and it’s going to take a lot for Vale to stay up.

Hired – Vale
Michael Mace

Michael Mace, former South Maishop manager, quickly replaces the sacked Nathan Kent. A somewhat eyebrow raising choice with Vale foregoing any opportunity of an internal promotion it seems. Mace was generally praised until South Maishop’s collapse in form before his sack. If he can get Vale playing like South Maishop at their best, they may yet stay up. However the cynics feel this is a hire for an attempt at promotion from the Challenge League next season.

Matchday 23

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–0 Langmere Green Rovers FC

Both of the Top 2 were in a local derby this Matchday. For Loxthorpe Rovers, they had the joy of getting a win over their rivals and denting their title hopes. It was close between the two sides in the first half. It was Gary Carr’s good dribble to play in Neil Amrbose that would be the only goal of the game. Gary Carr did nearly double it in injury time, but was denied by a brilliant Andrew Bullivant save. A great win for the hosts, meanwhile their rivals will be rueing the potential lost ground in the title race.

Carston Green FC 0–0 Sporting Towerhaite

Both these sides are in the position of being relatively safe from relegation, but they can’t rest on their laurels yet. This scoreless draw had it’s share of decent moments, but the deadlock was never broken. George Bunting’s volley just over in the 33rd minute was the closest opportunity. Still, a point each won’t go amiss for either side.

Westwood Garden City FC 2–1 Croxlich FC

Westwood Garden City kept the dream of an IFCF place going with this win over relegation threatened Croxlich. The good build up play from the hosts saw Valentine Richmond played beyond the defence, and he could easily score from that range. Late on Tarren Kidd doubled the lead when given too much space, even if his shot was a bit poor. A goalmouth scramble saw Robert Dyas score late on, but Croxlich couldn’t muster one final chance. The visitors stay in the top half and looking upwards, but Croxlich are firmly in the relegation battle.

Marthorpe City FC 1–1 Hadford Hill FC

Marthorpe City hosted their relegation threatened rivals in this match. Against form however, the visitors took the lead. David Michael with a good dribble flicked the ball across goal, and Anthony Hannigan tucked it in. 4 minutes later, and the floated cross by Maddox was met by Julian Simon and he put it into the net. The momentum was with the home team for much of the game, but they couldn’t make use of it, and would add only 1 point to their tally in the table.

South Maishop FC 2–0 Bavingtor FC

South Maishop continued to move away from danger with this win. With just their first attack, a missed clearance by Ben Blyth gave Malcolm Golfin a gift of a chance, which he took. South Maishop from there on in seemed to play much better than their position in the table. Mahtab Ahmad’s finish from 16 metres out was the icing on the cake off a good performance. 3 wins from 3 for John Davis in a good start for the interim manager.

Kings Lunsel FC 3–2 Vale FC

Malcolm Mace had a tough test in his first game as Vale Manager. Uuel Bon-Ami’s opener was the textbook definition of unstoppable, Ronald Edmonds could do nothing about the 23 metre curling shot. Nor could Edmonds do much about the second, Steven Hall beating two defenders to open up a clear cut chance to score, which he took. Vale had some good play of their own, and Bo Tsang took advantage, making it 2-1 before half-time. A tight game in the second half saw Steven Hall get a second, this time with an accurate finish, to put the result almost beyond doubt. Damon Pearce tucked in Vale’s second deep into injury time, but Kings Lunsel kept the ball from the kick-off and won 3-2. The hosts stay in the title chase, but the visitors stay a fair but off safety, with games running out.

Stanmorn FC 4–1 Waldster FC

An emphatic win for Stanmorn puts them well in contention to make the Top 4, visitors and neighbours Waldster now looking down not up on this kind of result. Scott Coleman nearly scored 3 inside 3 minutes, and Eddie Killingsworth had to hook the ball off the line. Coleman was the provider for the opener, his accurate pass allowing Sean McClaffery to finish. Just before half-time, and a cutback by Michael Cole played in Brian Buttery to equalise. If anything, that made Stanmorn more determined. Veteran defender David Betts scored a rare goal, heading in from Neal Gandhi’s somewhat overhit cross. Scott Coleman’s somewhat tame 69th minute shot wasn’t kept out by Conor Harrington, a bit of a gift to the hosts. Late on, Andrew Mason met the pass of James King with an accurate shot to wrap up an impressive victory.

St Astons City FC 1–0 Butterfield Rovers FC

This game pretty much went to form. St Astons City were the better team for the early exchanges, and eventually Christopher Ace played it in for Marc Sharratt to open the scoring. That would be the only game. Butterfield Rovers struggled to build any sort of attacking play, and St Astons City could’ve and should’ve scored more, but made errors up front. Still, the 3 points keeps them in the hunt for the Top 4 and the IFCF places.

Matchday 24

Langmere Green Rovers FC 1–0 St Astons City FC

A crucial 3 points for Langmere Green Rovers, as they try and get their title challenge back on track. The first half was fairly close, maybe the visitors edging it, but again they were struggling to be accurate with their chances. This would be costly, as in the second half, after Ramon Martin’s header was initially parried away, Anpele Zork followed in with a hefty boot on the ball to open the scoring. Langmere Green Rovers were cautious after that, but the approach paid off as they got the 3 points.

Butterfield Rovers FC 1–2 Stanmorn FC

More struggles for the side in the relegation zone, as they were very much second best here. It started badly, Bradley Seymour’s loose ball control meant Andrew Thomas could snatch it from him, and fired in the one vs one opportunity. Stanmorn were confident for much of the game, and Herman Kloscher would meet Scott Coleman’s pass with a good finish. Although Gary Watson pulled one back, Butterfield Rovers could offer nothing to get past the defence Stanmorn put in for the final minutes.

Waldster FC 2–0 Kings Lunsel FC

It was 4th vs 3rd going into this matchday. A close first half saw restored Jonathan Swain make a good save from Morten Christensen. Then in the second half, Michael Cole’s curling, rising effort hit the underside of the crossbar, and bounced just over the line to open the scoring. Towards the end, Kings Lunsel put more men forward, but had gaps at the back. Brian Buttery’s long forward ball was met by Joe Dargie, and he beat Robert Jones to confirm the win. A good win for the hosts in danger of dropping out of the Top 4 if they didn’t improve.

Vale FC 1–2 South Maishop FC

2 managers recently employed met in this encounter. The first half seemed even, but Paul Crowley’s fierce shot from the edge of the box opened the scoring. However, Jason Hammonds would equalise, heading in from a free kick. The game was settled by a goal in similar circumstances, this time Kevin Bradley finishing this time. The visitors continue their good form and go beyond the 30 point mark, often seen as the points needed to avoid the drop. For Vale, this sort of defeats just makes relegation look more inevitable.

Bavingtor FC 0–1 Marthorpe City FC

For Marthorpe City, they left it late but got a crucial goal in their bid to win the title. Bavingtor hadn’t been at their best for much of the second half of the season, but in this game seemed much improved. All their hard work was for nothing. Late on, Colt Henderson’s long ball into the box was headed down by Julian Simon, and then shot beyond the reach of David Meehan. The win keeps Marthorpe City top, as they hope to win the title. Bavingtor’s season looks set at this rate to finish with a mid-table ending.

Hadford Hill FC 3–1 Westwood Garden City FC

It was the late show for Hadford Hill, but it could be 3 key points to keep them in the Super League. The first half had a few opportunities, but nothing conclusive. However, just 5 minutes into the second half, poor marking from a corner let Tarren Kidd clean through to open the scoring. Westwood Garden City were defending well, but could do nothing when Alan Holt’s long ball was met by the head of Anthony Hannigan who turned it into the corner of the net. Then, as injury time started, David Michael and Anthony Hannigan’s one-two let Michael clean through to slot in the goal to take the lead. Everyone went up for the final corner, and the clearance fell for Anthony Hannigan, who hit it well enough to score from 65 metres out.

Croxlich FC 4–5 Carston Green FC

A nine goal thriller, albeit not for the home side. 2 goals quite early on by Richard Doughty gave the visitors the early advantage. However pitiable defending gave Matthew Cope an easy first goal. Then Robert Dyas met Luke Sturgeon’s through ball to equalise. Matthew Cope gave the hosts the lead with his second from close range, only for Tariq Din and Michael Morley to give the visitors the lead back. Richard Doughty’s swinging shot for his hat-trick doubled the lead. Matthew Cope then got his own hat-trick late on, but Croxlich couldn’t muster up another goal. Croxlich stay in the relegation zone, alongside their fellow promoted sides, Carston Green move to 31 points.

Sporting Towerhaite 2–0 Loxthorpe Rovers FC

Loxthorpe Rovers summed up their season, following on from defeating their rivals, they lost with a poor display to Sporting Towerhaite. Clumsy marking from a free kick saw right back Steven Arthur easily able to finish from a metre out, Lucky Diamond unimpressed with the defence. It didn’t get any better in the second half, this time Gary Hays exploited poor marking from a corner to head in. Sporting Towerhaite move further from the relegation zone with this win, Loxthorpe Rovers still mired in midtable.

Matchday 25

Sporting Towerhaite 3–4 Langmere Green Rovers FC

They left it late, but Langmere Green Rovers got an away win to win and keep the pressure on at the top. The title contenders didn’t start well, when Anthony Miles was played in, and placed a good shot into the bottom corner. Christopher Johnson equalised, but Keith Murray restored the lead. Just before half time, and Christopher Johnson’s saved effort was then deflected in by Ramon Martin. Langmere Green Rovers were on top in the second half, and Christopher Johnson volleyed in the goal to make it 2-3. However Anthony Miles slid in from a whipped cross to make it 3-3. Just before the fourth official’s board went up, a ball bounced around the box from a corner, and the old-timer Oliver Thomas tucked it away. 3-4, and 3 big points for the visitors.

Loxthorpe Rovers FC 1–2 Croxlich FC

Croxlich gave themselves a lifeline with this result. Matthew Cope continued his great goalscoring record this season, tucking in from close range early on. Croxlich hoped to go in at half-time leading, but Gary Carr’s looping effort landed just inside the post. No worries though for Matthew Cope, as he got enough on Luke Sturgeon’s floated cross to score another goal. The visitors held firm, and took 3 points that gives them a big boost in their chances of staying up.

Carston Green FC 1–0 Hadford Hill FC

Hadford Hill failed to take anything from this game, increasing their chances of a drop into the second tier. The visitors had more chances in the first half, but were wasteful, especially Anthony Hannigan. Then in the second half, Andrew Payne’s cross in was met by Michael Morley, firing just inside the post. Hadford Hill couldn’t recover from that blow, and lose ground in the race to stay up.

Westwood Garden City FC 1–3 Bavingtor FC

Not a huge amount left for these two sides to fight for, but still a game both would’ve liked to have won. However the visitors dominated the first half. Mark Paul, Paul Bradley and Robert Turton all got on the scoresheet from set pieces, making it 0-3 at half time. Tarren Kidd pulled one back, with an aerial shot, but it was all for nothing really, Westwood Garden City unable to create much more.

Marthorpe City FC 2–1 Vale FC

Again it was left to late on, but Marthorpe City took another 3 points and another step towards the title. They didn’t start well though, Vivek Soni giving away a penalty after handling the ball in the box. Bo Tsang made no mistake from the penalty to give the visitors the lead. Marthorpe City would equalise 55 minutes in, Colt Henderson from just inside the box firing low and hard into the net. Then, with time ticking on, David Blythe’s cross was met scrappily by the Vale defence. Ronald Peddie, back from injury latched onto the ball, and drilled it in. Marthorpe City stay top with this win, Vale meanwhile look very likely to go down now.

South Maishop FC 3–1 Waldster FC

South Maishop continue their fine run of form under John Davis, albeit aided by Waldster’s errors. From a corner, Chester Brooks’ poor header away meant Kevin Bradley had a clear shot at goal, and scored with a shot even a defender couldn’t miss. Not long into the second half, and Royston Stephens, feeling that John Bell had dived in front of him, followed in with a kick to the back. Thankfully the blow wasn’t enough to take Bell out of the game, but it took Stephens out with a red card. The ban length itself will likely mean that Stephen misses most of the rest of the season. The hosts took full advantage, and Malcolm Golfin and Gary White got on the scoresheet. John Lawler’s 80th minute effort was impressive, but irrelevant in the grand scheme of things. South Maishop look well out of danger, Waldster realistically out of the title hunt and in danger of not making the IFCF.

Kings Lunsel FC 1–2 Butterfield Rovers FC

Kings Lunsel’s loss at home to relegation threatened Butterfield Rovers almost certainly ends their title hopes. The hosts looked the better side, but one quick breakaway, and Gary Watson was able to get free and shoot past Robert Jones and into the net. Kings Lunsel equalised early on in the second half, Milo Simmons-Bradley at the far post hitting home Steven Hall’s whipped cross. Kings Lunsel pushed for a winner, but with time winning out, a cleared corner fell to Michael McGowan. He played Gary Watson in perfectly, and the striker slotted past Jones, to give the visitors an unlikely 3 points, and a lift in their chances of staying up. For Kings Lunsel, the hopes of holding on to the Super League look all but extinguished now.

Stanmorn FC 0–1 St Astons City FC

One goal wins seem to be the forte of St Astons City. Stanmorn were probably the better team in terms of play, but a loose pass from David Betts saw Christopher Ace intercept. His shot was blocked by the legs of Aarif Muhammad, but the rebound fell to Marc Sharratt who turned it past the outstretched Neil Wright and into the net. The win keeps St Astons City in the hunt for the IFCF, but also damages the chances of Stanmorn.

Standings
Super League

3 points separate Marthorpe City from the chasing Langmere Green Rovers. It looks very likely one of these two will be lifting the Super League trophy in 5 games time. Behind them are Kings Lunsel on 45 points, and Waldster on 42 points. Both have seen their title dreams all but end, and mow must try and consolidate their IFCF place.

5th placed Stanmorn are 3 points off 4th, and a further 2 points behind are St Astons City. Both of these teams will be looking at the Top 4 and thinking they still have the chance to make it in. Bavingtor in 7th are probably just too far away now, based on their current form. The Top 8 is rounded out by South Maishop, now with 5 wins in a row after Josh Davis took over.

Following them are a cluster of sides almost certain to stay up. 9th place would be a decent finish for Carston Green, 10th less so for Westwood Garden City given their earlier positions. Loxthorpe Rovers had aspirations of the Top 8, but have been too inconsistent and lie in 11th. 12th for Sporting Towerhaite is a so-so performance.

It looks like 3 teams in contention for 13th and survival. Hadford Hill are in that position at the moment ,but the last Matchday means 14th and 15th, Croxlich and Butterfield Rovers have a real sot at survival. Vale in 16th need at least 3 wins (thanks to Hadford Hill and Croxlich facing off in MD28) to have a shot at survival, and that’s would need to be after 4 in 25.

Challenge League

It’s not all over yet, but Binclestead Wood are top on 49 points, and with 6 points from 3rd, in a very good position to make an immediate return to the Super League. Apsbrooke behind them on 46 points are in a slightly weaker position, but will still be likely to also bounce back immediately.

Batchingtonwood Rovers have exceeded expectations to be 3rd, and still in the hunt for automatic promotion. Gann are 5 points above 7th, and look like they could secure a playoff spot, in their return to the second tier for only their third ever season at this level. It’s getting very close for the final 2 spots, but Narrock Wood United and Guildwell Football control them at the moment.

Millsea, Capton Club, Henhaven Islanders and Nailwood Mills will all still think they have a chance of the playoffs, but will have to have the best run of form out of many to do so. North Mayshop have fallen off in the last few weeks, and are just 6 points away from the drop zone, although it would be a bit of a surprise if they go down.

Hopford on 31 points will probably be safe, but can’t rest on their laurels. After their good start, Claychester now have little margin for error to stay in the Challenge League on 28 points. It’s Whittlesbury Wanders in 14th on 26 points, and FC North Waldster on 25 points who may just yet turn their first seasons in the second tier into a longer stay. Rumlington Rovers lie bottom now, and will need to really kick on if they’re to avoid the drop to the National League Division 1.

Western League

It’s not official yet, but with a 10 point lead, few will bet against Havermilly going up in this position as Western League champions. The playoff race is very close, with at least one of Westwood, Slaton and Old Marthope likely to be disappointed. Langpool Capton will likely join some of those in the National League Division 1 next season. Meanwhile 6th-11th all have a real chance of going into the National League Division 1, instead of the National League Division 2.

Highhadford’s poor season is all that keeps the relegation race going. Their fellow Hadford sides Hadford Dacorum and South Hadford United may yet catch them, but it’s looking increasingly unlikely unless they can pick up points at pace.

Eastern League

Buchraston extend their lead to 8, and it feels like only a matter of time before they win the league and an immediate return to the Challenge League. The playoff race is closing up, Abbots Lunsel, Boll Lake Mariners and Oxwich all in close contention, but even the rest of the Top 8 can’t be ruled out.

It’s looking like a very good or very bad run of form from at least one side is needed to shift the current Top 8 and Bottom 8 out of their respective halves. At the bottom, Galling Rangers 7AU seem set to go down, with a battle between Radstye Rangers and Henhaven Palace likely to decide the other relegation place.

Flavovespia Gold Cup

Quarter Finals

(SL) Vale FC 1–2 (SL) Waldster FC

Own Goal 50

33 Michael McGarry, 56 John Lawler

The only all Super League tie of the round in Vale. The visitors Waldster avoided a bit of a banana skin, to advance to the Final Four. A close first half saw Michael McGarry break the deadlock. He picked up the ball on the edge of the box, took a touch and fired past Ronald Edmonds. Waldster should’ve been more confortable, but a whiffed clearance by Richard Bowman went just inside his own net. Thankfully his blushes were spared by John Lawler emphatic finish. Waldster defender well for the rest of the game, to make it into the semi finals.

(CL) Binclestead Wood FC 1–1 (SL) Langmere Green Rovers FC (2–1 AET)

Sam Fifield 43, Robert Totten 93

18 Peter Hickman

Langmere Green Rovers’s decision to rotate their squad somewhat blew up in their face, as the title contenders of the Super League were upset by the title contenders of the Challenge League. Peter Hickman gave the visitors the lead with a composed finish after cutting in. Langmere Green Rovers should’ve gone into the break in the lead, but Sam Fifield was given too much space to shoot, and he finished with style. The second half was tense and after 90 minutes it was deadlocked. Just 3 minutes into extra time, and Robert Totten rose highest from a corner to head in. Langmere Green Rovers had several shots in the final 15 minutes, with Ramon Martin subbed on, but the defence of Bincleastead Wood held firm. They’re into the semi-finals, crucially with only 1 Super League team and 2 Challenge League sides joining them.

(CL) Batchingtonwood Rovers FC 4–0 (CL) Whittlesbury Wanderers

Zac Wood 41, Lyndon Brett 54, Jaxson Henderson 75, Jaxson Henderson 88

Batchingtonwood Rovers got a big win over Whittlesbury Wanderers, in a match between two teams who will find this stage unfamiliar territory for them. Zac Wood’s opener near half-time seemed to be the catalyst for the hosts. They controlled the second half, and Lyndon Brett’s angled shot into the top corner doubled the lead. Jaxson Henderson put it beyond any doubt with a double in the final 1 minutes. Whittlesbury Wanderers return to their fight to stay in the Challenge League. Batchingtonwodo Rovers keep the dream alive.

(CL) Millsea FC 1–2 (CL) Capton Club

John Payne 90

36 Ronald McIntyre, 87 Ronald McIntyre

Capton Club moved into the semi finals, to the disappointment of the home fans who felt this was a very winnable tie. A missed open goal 5 minutes in for the hosts initiated a match of frustration. Ronald McIntyre’s 36 minutes opener came from a defensive error, just as Millsea were getting into a groove. Towards the end, their attacks left them too exposed, and McIntyre doubled his tally and the Capton Club lead. John Payne’s flick in from a corner gave the hosts a glimmer of hope, but they couldn’t get the ball back into the box. Capton Club are in to the semis in one of the most open years in recent memory.

Flavovespia Domestic Sports Newswire

Flavovespia Domestic Sports Newswire

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