Burton Albion 0 Stafford Rangers 0

Tuesday 26th December 2000
Burton Albion 0 Stafford Rangers 0
Dr Martens League Premier Division
At: Eton Park
Kick-off: 12-00 noon
Programme: £1-50p (44 pages)
Attendance: 2501
Weather: sunny, cold


Stafford Rangers became the first side to prevent Burton Albion from scoring in a league game this season as they held the league leaders to a goalless draw before a large Bank Holiday crowd at Eton Park. The home side wasted numerous chances but a combination of inaccurate finishing, resolute defending and a crucial save by Richard Williams frustrated Nigel Clough’s men. But Rangers created the odd chance themselves and could have nicked a win.

In a pulsating first half of flowing attacking football, Burton created several good scoring opportunities. In the 6th minute, Clough crossed from the right to the near post where Christian Moore sent a bullet header inches wide then four minutes later, Clough forced Williams to make a fine diving side at close range. Just before the half hour mark Glasser headed over from seven yards and also fired a shot a couple of feet wide from the edge of the area. In between Rangers soaked up a lot of pressure and approaching on half-time could have taken the lead. Darren Middleton hit a dipping 20-yard shot which fell just over the bar and Craig Lovatt had a header blocked on the line by the book of Albion keeper Matt Duke.

The second half was quiet in terms of goalmouth action for long periods but Rangers always looking threatening. Ian Painter made good use of his three substitutions including debutant defender John Diskin on for injured Scott Dundas which forced a reshuffle at the back. Surprisingly all three of Burton’s remained on the bench.

Stafford have now gone four matches without defeat and on this showing are more than an match for any side in the Dr Martens League.

Burton Albion (yellow/black/black): 1. Matt Duke, 2. Jason Kavanagh, 3. Terry Henshaw, 4. Neil Glasser, 5. Mark Blount, 6. Darren Wassall, 7. Darren Stride, 8. Pat Lyons, 9. Christian Moore, 10. Nigel Clough, 11. Dale Anderson. Subs: 12. Andy Garner (not used), 14. David Holmes (not used), 15. Michael Forsyth (not used).

Stafford Rangers (maroon/maroon/maroon): 1. Richard Williams, 2. Leigh Everritt, 3. Steve Jones, 4. Darren Middleton, 5. Chris Brindley, 6. Darren Simkin, 7. Paul Kiely, 8. Craig Lovatt, 9. Joe O’Connor, 10. Tony Eccleston, 11. Scott Dundas. 12. Dean Craven (for Kiely, 61), 14. John Diskin (for Dundas, 67), 15. Darren Shaw (for Middleton, 84).

Referee: RC Burton (Kettering).

Stafford Rangers 3 Weymouth 2

Saturday 23rd December 2000
Stafford Rangers 3 Weymouth 2
Dr Martens League Premier Division
At: Marston Road
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Programme: £1 (44 pages)
Attendance: 712
Weather: misty, cold


Stafford (in tenth position with 25 points from 18 games) went into their last game before Christmas on the back on victories in their last two league games – a home to Folkestone Invicta and last Saturday away at Dorchester Town.

Visitors Weymouth, on a 400-mile round trip from the south coast, were also in midtable, 14th position to be precise, having gained two points less than Stafford from the same number of games.

Manager Ian Painter named an unchanged Stafford line-up with just one alteration on the bench as recent signing John Diskin replaced Darren Shaw.

The game, started with an orange ball, almost had a spectacular start. With barely 25 seconds on the clock, Darren Middleton hit a powerful 25-yard shot which was well held by Weymouth keeper Danny Potter. Tony Eccleston had the ball in the back of the visitors’ net after 4 minutes only for the gaol to be disallowed for a foul in the build-up.

Shortly after Chris Brindley had headed against the Weymouth bar, the visitors took the lead in the 32nd minute Matthew Hale’s shot took a deflection off Steve Jones and looped towards goal. Darren Rowbotham, on his own in front of goal and looking well offside, headed home from eight yards out.

Stafford equalised within a minute. Eccleston got to a bouncing ball on the edge of the Weymouth area just before Potter and headed into an unguarded net.

A swift break on the hour mark led to Weymouth regaining the lead. Interpassing between Rowbotham and substitute Lee Phillips created a chance for Mark Robinson who fired home from 12 yards out.

Robinson turned from hero to villain in the 76th minute by handling inside his own area. The referee awarded a penalty which Darren Simkin converted to level things up at 2-2.

Stafford had much the better of the last 15 minutes and, in an exciting finish, scored the winner in the 85th minute. A deep corner was headed into the goalmouth by Brindley for Man of the Match Craig Lovatt to head home at close range.

Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Richard Williams, 2. Leigh Everritt, 3. Steve Jones, 4. Darren Boughey, 5. Chris Brindley, 6. Darren Simkin, 7. Darren Middleton, 8. Craig Lovatt, 9. Joe O’Connor, 10. Tony Eccleston, 11. Paul Kiely. Subs: 12. Scott Dundas (for Boughey, 23), 14. John Diskin, 15. Dean Craven (for Kiely, 67).

Weymouth (terra/terra/terra): 1. Danny Potter, 2. Mark Gammon, 3. Matthew Hale, 4. Simon Browne, 5. John Waldock, 6. Ryan Cross, 7. Mark Robinson, 8. Matthew Hare, 9. Darren Rowbotham, 10. David Laws, 11. Gary Funnell. Subs: 12. Ian Hutchinson (for Hale, 86), 14. Lee Phillips (for Gammon, 58), 15. Martin Underham (for Funnell, 86).

Referee: JR Hubbard (Leicester).

Goals:
0-1 Darren Rowbotham (32)
1-1 Tony Eccleston (33)
1-2 Mark Robinson (60)
2-2 Darren Simkin (75 pen)
3-2 Craig Lovatt (84)

Dorchester Town 0 Stafford Rangers 2

Saturday 16th December 2000
Dorchester Town 0 Stafford Rangers 2
Dr Martens League Premier Division
At: Avenue Stadium
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Programme: £1-50p (44 pages)
Attendance: 547
Weather: -


Stafford Rangers produced a fine all-round team performance in recording a 2-0 victory at struggling Dorchester, their first away from home in the league for three months. The win moves them up to the top half of the table into tenth position.

The home side went on the attack at the start and Sullivan should have put them ahead after just three minutes. Groves crossed from the right to the unmarked wing-back on the edge of the six yard box but his shot hit Richard Williams.

Stafford weathered the early storm and gradually clawed their way back into the match. Darren Middleton was particularly influential in midfield while Joe O’Connor had a goalbound effort cleared from near the line. After the break Rangers took the lead on the hour mark. Craig Lovatt played the ball forward to Paul Kiely who was allowed to run deep into the area and lob Mark Ormerod from eight yards.

Dorchester rallied towards the end but a minute from time O’Connor wrapped up the game with a second goal. He was on hand to help the ball into an empty net after Tony Eccleston flicked a long forward pass past the advancing Ormerod.

Dorchester Town (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Mark Ormerod, 2. Martyn Sullivan, 3. Andy Harris, 4. Michael White, 5. Mark Morris, 6. Jason McIvor, 7. Matt Lonnon, 8. Marcus Oldbury, 9. Danny O'Hagan, 10. Matt Groves, 11. Matt Holmes Subs: 12. Owen Pickard (for Harris, 74), 14. Chris Ferritt (Holmes, 65), 15 Simon Radcliffe (not used).

Stafford Rangers (maroon/maroon/maroon): 1. Richard Williams, 2. Leigh Everritt, 3. Steve Jones, 4. Darren Boughey, 5. Chris Brindley (capt), 6. Darren Simkin, 7. Darren Middleton, 8. Craig Lovatt, 9. Joe O’Connor, 10. Tony Eccleston, 11. Paul Kiely. Substitutes: 12. Scott Dundas (for Boughey, 83), 14. Dean Craven (for Middleton, 90+4), 15. Darren Shaw (for Kiely, 88).

Referee: Mr RP Desmond (Fairford).

Goals:
0-1 Paul Kiely (60)
0-2 Tony Eccleston (90)

Mildenhall Town 0 Porthleven 0

Saturday 9th December 2000
Mildenhall Town 0 Porthleven 0 (aet)
FA Carlsberg Vase Third Round
At: Recreation Way
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: £3; Programme: £1 (36 pages)
Attendance: 270
Weather: sunny



Mildenhall Town (amber/black/black): 1. Alex Thorpe, 2. Andy Critoph, 3. Paul Cordy, 4. Luke Moore, 5. Mark Winstone, 6. Stuart Ogilvie, 7. Kevin Sobiechowski, 8. Mark Reeder, 9. Ben Goddard, 10. Neil Pope, 11. Lee Drury. Subs: 12. Steve Low (for Ogilvie, 103), 13. Lee Sharp (for Cordy, 107), 14. Mark Nunn (for Sobiechowski, ht), 15. Dan Kelly (not used).

Porthleven (navy and sky blue halves / white / sky blue): 1. Gary Penhaligan, 2. Matt Latham, 3. Paul Ainscough, 4. Richard Triggs, 5. Wayne Hillson, 6. John Burrows, 7. Dave Larsen, 8. Andrew Bleasdale, 9. James Miller, 10. Ben Hayden, 11. Nicky Medlyn. Subs: 12. Ian Hodge (not used), 14. Dominic Richardson (for Miller, 49), 15. Alan Roberts (not used), 16. Dean Bray (not used).

Referee: Glen Hambling (Norwich).

Margate 3 Stafford Rangers 1

Saturday 25th November 2000
Margate 3 Stafford Rangers 1
Dr Martens League Premier Division
At: Hartsdowne Park
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Programme: £1-50 (44 pages)
Attendance: 345
Weather: rain



Margate went top of the Dr Martens League Premier Division with a 3-1 win over Stafford Rangers.

In difficult wet and windy conditions on the Kent coast, Margate went ahead in the 11th minute. Munday headed home after Paul Hayward, deputising for the injured Richard Williams, failed to gather a corner on the edge of his six-yard box. The midfielder added a second three minutes before the break, reacting to drive home a loose ball after Hayward blocked a Phil Collins header on the line. Stafford, playing with the strong wind and rain, were restricted to a couple of long range shots easily dealt with by home keeper Lee Turner.

The rain eased at half-time to the benefit of Stafford who soon got back into the game with more positive play. In the 50th minute Joe O’Connor intercepted a poor clearance by Turner, ran towards goal and after drawing the keeper, squared the ball to Paul Kiely to tap-in. Just after the hour mark with Margate pressing for a third, Hayward kept Stafford in contention with two fine saves. First he dived low to his left to deflect a shot by Tako for a corner and then he leapt in the air to turn over a rising drive from Jay Saunders.

A minute from time Margate made sure of the three points. Stuart Ryder brought down Saunders inside the area and Eliot Martin converted the resultant penalty.

Margate (blue/blue/blue): 1. Lee Turner, 2. Graham Porter, 3. Paul Lamb, 4. Bill Edwards, 5. Lee Williams, 6. Iain O’Connell, 7. Mark Munday, 8. Eloit Martin, 9. Mo Tako, 10. Phil Collins, 11. Jay Saunders. Subs: 12. Leon Braithwaite (for Tako, 75), 14. Gary Blackford (not used), 15. Dean Yorath (not used).

Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Paul Hayward, 2. Leigh Everritt, 3. Steve Jones, 4. Darren Simkin, 5. Chris Brindley, 6. Stuart Ryder, 7. Darren Boughey, 8. Craig Lovatt, 9. Joe O’Connor, 10. Paul Kiely, 11. Scott Dundas. Subs: 12. Tony Eccleston (for Boughey, 78), 14. Darren Middleton (not used), 15. Darren Shaw (not used).

Referee: Mr S Peeke (Northfleet).

Goals:
1-0 Mark Munday (11)
2-0 Mark Munday (43)
2-1 Paul Kiely (50)
3-1 Eliot Martin (90 pen)

Crawley Town 2 Stafford Rangers 2

Saturday 11th November 2000
Crawley Town 2 Stafford Rangers 2
Dr Martens League Premier Division
At: Broadfield Stadium
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Programme: issued
Attendance: 858
Weather: rain


Stafford Rangers came within a few minutes of recording a deserved victory at Crawley. The leaders came back from two goals down to level in injury time then missed a match-winning penalty right at the end.

Disappointed to not get all three points skipper Scott Dundas was still pleased, commenting that this was the best performance of the season. “The boss got the formation right, we passed well and the team showed lots of commitment and energy.”

Playing with rain and a strong wind at their backs, Stafford were two up at the break. In the 20th minute minutes, Simkin crossed low towards the near post and O’Connor flicked the ball past Little. Then, just after half hour mark, Kiely fed Lovatt who made no mistake from eight yards.

In the second half Rangers continued to play well into the wind with O’Connor hitting a post on the hour mark. Crawley put Stafford under a lot of pressure and pulled a goal back in the 81st minute when Anderson fired past Williams from inside a crowded area. Then, roared by an increasing vociferous crowd, the home side levelled a minute into stoppage time through Riley’s header. Stafford deserved something from the game and it was just that Riley fired a penalty over the bar with seconds remaining after Steve Jones brought down Scott Mean.

Crawley Town (red/red/red): 1. Andy Little, 2. Scott Mean, 3. Ian Payne, 4. Andy Riley, 5. Marc Pullan, 6. John Ugbah, 7. Danny Carroll, 8. Luke Anderson, 9. Dean Wordsworth, 10. Mark Hawthorne, 11. Dave Powell. Subs: 12. Matt Woolf (for Wordsworth, 56), 14. Andy Taylor (for Carroll, 66), 15. Mark Hynes (for Payne, 56).

Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Richard Williams, 2. Leigh Everritt, 3. Steve Jones, 4. Darren Simkin, 5. Chris Brindley, 6. Stuart Ryder, 7. Darren Boughey, 8. Craig Lovatt, 9. Joe O’Connor, 10. Paul Kiely, 11. Scot Dundas. Subs: 12. Darren Middleton (not used), 14. Darren Shaw (for Boughey, 89), 15. Dean Craven (not used).

Referee: C Hayes (Godalming).

Goals:
0-1 Joe O’Connor (21)
0-2 Craig Lovatt (32)
1-2 Luke Anderson (82)
2-2 Andy Riley (90+1)

Stafford Rangers 3 Ossett Town 1

Saturday 4th November 2000
Stafford Rangers 3 Ossett Town 1
FA Trophy First Round
At: Marston Road
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: -; Programme: £1 (44 pages)
Attendance: 413
Weather: cloudy, showers


Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Richard Williams, 2. Leigh Everritt, 3. Steve Jones, 4. Darren Simkin, 5. Chris Brindley, 6. Stuart Ryder, 7. Paul Kiely, 8. Craig Lovatt, 9. Joe O’Connor, 10. Darren Middleton, 11. Scot Dundas. Subs: 12. Dean Craven (for Middleton, 66), 14. Darren Boughey (for Dundas, 60), 15. Dominic Heath (for Everritt, 84), 16. Darren Shaw (not used), GK. Paul Hayward (not used).

Ossett Town (red/red/red): 1. Mick Clark, 2. Chris Stabb, 3. Paul Sykes, 4. Ryan Cray, 5. Craig Boardman, 6. James Stansfield, 7. Matt Smithard, 8. Mark Lambert, 9. Gary Brook, 10. Simon Fuller, 11. Paul Ryan. Subs: 12. Lee Murphy (for Lambert, 79), 14. Chris Annan (for Ryan, 65), 16. Martin Aysclough (not used), GK. Neil Bennett (not used).

Referee: M Matadar (Blackburn).

Goals:
1-0 Darren Middleton (18)
2-0 Joe O’Connor (53)
3-0 Paul Kiely (64)
3-1 Chris Annan (73)

Saturday 28th October 2000

Finchampstead 3 Prestwood 2
Cherry Red Records Hellenic League Division 1 East
At: Finchampstead Memorial Park
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: none ; Programme: £1 (36 pages)
Attendance: 20 (headcount)
Weather: rain



I’d previously visited Finchampstead Memorial Park back in April 1993 when they defeated Reading Town 2-1 in a Charrington Chiltonian League Premier Division.

This season, both Finchampstead and today’s visitors Prestwood are enjoying their first Hellenic League campaign after a merger with the old Chiltonian League was completed during the summer.

Attacking the road end in the first half, Finchampstead took the lead in the 10th minute. Howard Jaeger got down the left and pulled the ball back to Danny Humphreys who gave the keeper no chance of stopping a low first-time shot.

With rain falling continuously throughout the game, Prestwood almost levelled within two minutes. Richard Mabey hit a long-range free-kick which home keeper Keith Strong tipped over.

The home side doubled their advantage in the 20th minute. Humphreys was again on target this time with a close-range header from Jeremy Lynch’s cross.

It got even better for Finchampstead a minute later with a third goal. Danny Russell fired home at close range from near to the left-hand post. The same player was denied another goal when Matt Brion tipped over a shot.

To their credit Prestwood pulled a goal back as the interval approached in the 44th minute. Paul Batchelor chased a long clearance, rounded the keeper down the inside right channel and slotted home.

In an amazing turnaround, the visitors scored again in first-half stoppage time. Craig Eden crossed into the area from the right and Brett Evans headed home.

It was 3-2 when the referee blew the half-time whistle and that remained the scoreline at full time. Just after the hour mark, Jeremy Lynch cleared off the line to prevent Prestwood netting an equaliser.

Finchampstead (sky blue and white stripes / black / black): 1. Keith Strong, 2. Steve Richardson, 3. Lee Goddard, 4. Marcus Pearce, 5. Jeremy Lynch, 6. Ben Rice, 7. Howard Jaeger, 8. Danny Russell, 9. Danny Humphreys, 10. Bruce Rolls, 11. Darren Wilson. Subs: 12. Darren Kettle (for Rolls, ht), 14. Jan Wojna (for Rice, 55), 15. Chris Mather (for Rice, 87).

Prestwood (claret/white/claret): 1. Matt Brion, 2. John Tilbury, 3. Richard Pontin, 14. John Tilbury, 5. Paul Smith, 6. Paul Mullen, 7. Richard Mabey, 8. Paul Batchelor, 9. Brett Evans, 10. Richard Eshelby, 11. Craig Eden. Subs: 12. Scott Hawkes (for Eshelby, 59), 15. David Yeabsley (not used).

Referee: John Sayer (Lower Earley).

Goals:
1-0 Danny Humphreys (10)
2-0 Danny Humphreys (20)
3-0 Danny Russell (21)
3-1 Paul Batchelor (44)
3-2 Brett Evans (45)

Saturday 21st October 2000

Bath City 2 Stafford Rangers 2
Dr Martens League Premier Division
At: Twerton Park
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Programme: £1-50 (52 pages)
Attendance: 802
Weather: -


Harrow Borough 0 Stafford Town 0

Saturday 14th October 2000
Harrow Borough 0 Stafford Town 0
FA Cup Third Qualifying Round
At: Earlsmead
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Programme: £1 (28 pages)
Attendance: 184
Weather: -



Harrow Borough (red/white/red): 1. David Hook, 2. Andy Rose, 3. Danny Nwaokolo, 4. Dwayne, 5. Mark Cooper (capt), 6. Oliver Lyons, 7. Otis Roberts, 8. John Hurlock, 9. Pat Gavin, 10. Mark Xavier, 11. Frank McCormack. Subs: 12. Dladimar Gusavac (for Roberts, 77), 14. ? Prutain, 15. Hakan Hayrettin (not used), 16. Oliver Petersen (not used), GK. Ole-Christian Braathen (not used).

Stafford Town (blue/blue/blue): 1. Robert Plant, 2. John Gomersall, 3. Nick Anthony, 4. Simon Carter, 5. Neil Walters, 6. Alan Somerville, 7. Nick Dunne, 8. Warren Campbell, 9. Michael Stark, 10. Russell DeMatteo, 11. Chris Curtis. Subs: 12. Mark Tilson (for Somerville, 89), 14. Phillip Skelton (not used), 16. Kevin Warrilow (not used), 17. Lee James (for Stark, 85), GK. Jon Edensor (not used).

Referee: SJ Phipps.

Saturday 7th October 2000

Hitchin Town 1 Chesham United 2
Ryman League Premier Division
At: Top Field
Kick-off: 12-00 noon
Admission: £6; Programme: £1-20p
Attendance: 258
Weather: drizzle


Hitchin Town (yellow/green/green): 1. Darren Bonfield, 2. Scott Cretton, 3. Sam Turner, 4. Mark Burke, 5. Robert Kean, 6. Ian Scott, 7. Carl Williams, 8. Shaun Marshall, 9. Gary Dixon, 10. Adam Parker, 11. Jeran Meah. Subs: 12. John Bone (for Cretton, 63), 14. Cliff Akurang (for Marshall, 49), 15. Nick Grime (for Scott, 70).

Chesham United (sky blue and claret quarters / claret / claret): 1. Delroy Preddie, 2. Brian Statham, 3. Martin Fox, 4. Lee Kersley, 5. Fitz Hall, 6. Scott Canham, 7. Dereck Brown, 8. Stuart Storer, 9. Victor Renner, 10. Dudley ‘DJ’ Campbell, 11. John Butterfield. Subs: 12. Kieran Corcornan, 14. Simon Harland, 15. Craig Farley (for Butterfield, 73).

Referee: John Pearce (Essex).

Goals:
1-0 Adam Parker (25)
1-1 Dudley Campbell (37)
1-2 Dudley Campbell (42)

Saturday 30th September 2000

Solihull Borough 1 Stafford Rangers 1
FA Cup Second Qualifying Round
At: Damson Park
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Programme: £1 (44 pages)
Attendance: 513
Weather: rain


Solihull Borough (red/white/red): 1. Richard Anstiss, 2. Russell Dodd, 3. Richard Beale, 4. Ian Mitchell, 5. Andy Penny, 6. Gary Knight, 7. Andy Lovelock, 8. Chris Smith, 9. Craig Woodfield, 10. Craig Dutton, 11. Chris Pearce. Subs: 12. Paul Pippard (for Woodfield, 62), 14. Guy Russell, (for Mitchell, 73), 15. Brett Healy (not used), 16. David Hart (not used), 17. Nick Amos (for Pearce, 62).

Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Richard Williams, 2. Leigh Everritt, 3. Darren Shaw, 4. Neil Smith, 5. Chris Brindley, 6. Stuart Ryder, 7. Darren Boughey, 8. Darren Simkin, 9. Darren Middleton, 10. Dean Craven, 11. Scott Dundas. Subs: 12. Jason Smith (for Neil Smith, 71), 14. Paul Kiely (for Craven, 78), 15. Dominic Heath (not used), 16. Archie King (not used).

Referee: DJ Hine (Worcester).

Saturday 23rd September 2000

King's Lynn 2 Stafford Rangers 3
Dr Martens League Premier Division
At: Walks Stadium
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Programme: £1-20p (40 pages)
Attendance: 888
Weather: warm and sunny


King’s Lynn (yellow/blue/blue):1. Chuck Martini, 2. Simon Dakin, 3. Craig Clark, 4. Dave Robinson, 5. Glen Fuff, 6. Jamie March, 7. Emeka Nwadike, 8. Gary Mills, 9. Anton Thomas, 10. Lyndon Rowland, 11. Tommy Wright. Subs: 12 Jon Palmer (for Rowland, ht), 14 Andy Bullimore (for Thomas, 73), 15 Lee Gibson (for Wright, 83).

Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black):1. Richard Williams, 2. Darren Simkin, 3. Leigh Everritt, 4. Neil Smith, 5. Chris Brindley, 6. Stuart Ryder, 7. Darren Boughey, 8. Craig Dean, 9. Tony Eccleston, 10 .Darren Middleton, 11. Scott Dundas, Substitutes: 12. Jason Smith (for Brindley, 17), 14. Dean Craven (for Dean, 51), 15. Dominic Heath (not used).

Referee: P. S. Kirkup (East Hunsbury).

Saturday 16th September 2000

Greenways 0 Bearsted 2
British Energy Kent County Premier Division
At: Beauwater Leisure Club
Kick-off: 2-45 pm
Admission: none ; Programme: none
Attendance: 15 (headcount)
Weather: cloudy, dry


Greenways (green and navy blue stripes / navy blue / green and nay blue hoops): 1. Mark Black, 2. Tony Absolom, 3. Robert May, 4. Terry Absolom, 5. John Scarborough, 6. Craig Kennerly, 7. Julian Mace, 8. Tony Wass, 9. Joe White, 10. Richard Taylor, 11. Graham Wells. Subs: 12. Dean Habergham (for Scarborough, 76), 14. Robert Frost (for Terry Absolom, 79), 15. Kenroy Bramble (for Wells, ht).

Bearsted (white/blue/blue): 1. Scott Butcher, 2. Jason Dunk, 3. Danny Lye, 4. Scott Bermini, 5. David Anthony, 6. John Brook, 7. Keith Mottram, 8. Steve Benton, 9. Nick Wilson, 10. Karl Porter, 11. Jimi Ayinoe. Subs: 12. Scott Price (for Benton, 70), 14. Michael Betts (for Wilson, 86), 15. Ian Hamer (not used).

Referee: Steve Child.

Goals:
0-1 Steve Benton (25)
0-2 Jason Dunk (62)

Phoenix Sports 2 Maidstone United 4

Saturday 9th September 2000
Phoenix Sports 2 Maidstone United 4
British Energy Kent County Premier Division
At: Phoenix Sports Club, Bexleyheath
Kick-off: 2-15 pm
Admission: £2 including 32-page programme
Attendance: 75 (headcount)
Weather: sunny spells


Phoenix Sports (white/black/black): 1. John Holland, 2. Darren Carter, 3. John O’Mahoney, 4. Dave Carter, 5. Darren Wilkins, 6. Paul Williams (capt), 7. Nick Davis, 8. Tony Warren, 9. Andy Laroche, 10. Ian Henry, 11. Lee Byrne. Subs: 12. Darren Pattinson (for Davis, 69), 14. Ian Perris (not used), 15. Shaun Fortune (not used).

Maidstone United (amber/black/amber): 1. Tony Reynolds, 2. Scott Wilkins, 16. Matthew Broadway, 4. Terry Cordice (capt), 5. Gary Hemes, 6. David Forster, 7. Oliver Scrivener, 8. Simon Toms, 9. Matt Toms, 10. Richard Monks, 11. Richard Bowden-Brown. Subs: 12. Graham Martin (for Simon Toms, 84), 14. Glen Andrews (for Matt Toms, 68), 15. Nigel Donn (for Bowden-Brown, 76.

Referee: Mark Takacs (Broadstairs).

Goals:
0-1 Richard Monks (43)
1-1 Paul Williams (45+5)
1-2 David Forster (56)
2-2 Lee Byrne (72)
2-3 Graham Martin (86)
2-4 Richard Monks (90+8)

Saturday 2nd September 2000

Norton Sports 2 Bearsted 0
British Energy Kent County Premier Division
At: Norton Park
Kick-off: 2-45 pm
Admission: none ; Programme: 50p (12 pages)
Attendance: 70 (headcount)
Weather: sunny spells, windy



Norton Sports (sky blue and white stripes / black / white): 1. Richard Higgon, 2. John Emmerson, 3. Darren Pont, 4. Scott Melloy, 5. Jon Wright, 6. John O’Hanlon, 7. Stuart Coulter, 8. Damian Robinson, 9. Barry Donnelly, 10. Dwayne Prince, 11. Clayton Fitzgibbon. Subs: 12. Martin Bromwich (for Wright, 73), 14. Darren Hogben (for Robinson, 69), 15. Sean Friend (for Coulter, 83).

Bearsted (white/blue/blue): 1. Scott Butcher, 2. Colin Mottram, 3. Danny Lye, 4. Alan Swift, 5. Paul Hewish, 6. Richard Kennedy, 7. Keith Mottram, 8. Steve Benton, 9. Nick Wilson, 10. Jimi Ayinoe, 11. Jason Dunk. Subs: 12. Karl Porter (for Mottram, 53), 14. Scott Price (for Benton, 90), 15. John Brook (for Hewish, 53).

Referee: Michael Tapp.

1-0 Clayton Fitzgibbon (25)
2-0 Damian Robinson (35)

Saturday 26th August 2000

Worcester City 2 Stafford Rangers 4
Dr Martens League Premier Division
At: St George's Lane
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: comp; Programme:-
Attendance: 1142
Weather: -


Worcester City (blue and white stripes / white / white): 1. Paul Hayward, 2. Andrew Bradley, 3. Nathan Jukes, 4. Mark Tucker, 5. Carl Heeley, 6. Paul Carty, 7. Michael Wyatt, 8. Ian Cotterill, 9. Mark Owen, 10. Steve Lutz, 11. Ian Reed. Substitutes: 12. Wesley Joyce (for Catry, 26), 14. Chris Jefferson (for Reed, 72), 15. Jamie Hyde (for Cotterill, 67).

Stafford Rangers (maroon/maroon/maroon): 1. Richard Williams, 2. Darren Simkin, 3. Leigh Everritt, 4. Neil Smith, 5. Chris Brindley, 6. Stuart Ryder, 7. Jason Smith, 8. Craig Dean, 9. Tony Eccleston, 10. Steve Jones, 11. Scott Dundas. Substitutes: 12. Darren Boughey (for Dean, 82), 14. Darren Middleton (for Jones, 67), 15. David Read (for Jason Smith, 90).

Referee: I Scarr (Rubery).

Goals:
0-1 Scott Dundas (19)
0-2 Scott Dundas (27)
1-2 Carl Heeley (80)
1-3 Darren Middleton (83)
2-3 Wesley Joyce (86)
2-4 Scott Dundas (89 pen)

Saturday 19th August 2000

Stafford Rangers 1 Crawley Town 2
Dr Martens League Premier Division
At: Marston Road
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: comp ; Programme: £1 (44 pages)
Attendance: 815
Weather: sunny spells


Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes . black / black): 1. Richard Williams, 2. Darren Simkin, 3. Leigh Everritt, 4. Neil Smith, 5. Chris Brindley, 6. Stuart Ryder, 7. Jason Smith, 8. Darren Middleton, 9. Tony Eccleston, 10. Paul Kiely, 11. Scott Dundas. Subs: 12 Steve Jones (for Middleton, 59) 14 Carl Tranter (for Everritt, 76) 15 Darren Boughey (not used).

Crawley Town (red/red/red): 1. Andy Little, 2. Keith Sharman, 3. Matt Woolf, 4. Andy Taylor, 5. Marc Pullan, 6. John Ugbah, 7. Danny Carroll, 8. Luke Anderson, 9. Dean Wordsworth, 10. Mark Hynes, 11. Dave Powell. Subs: 12. Francis Vines (not used), 14. Nigel Brake (not used), 15. Rodney McAree (for Hynes, 87).

Referee: André Marriner (Coventry).

Goals:
0-1 Matt Woolf (68)
1-1 Scott Dundas (84)
1-2 Dean Wordsworth (85 pen)

Saturday 12th August 2000

TSC FC 2 St Francis 1
Rich City Sussex County League Division 3
At: Tinsley Lane, Crawley
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: none; Programme: 50p (24 pages)
Attendance: 25 (headcount)
Weather: hot and sunny



TSC (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Martin Brown, 2. Darren Cloe, 3. Charlie Cooper, 4. Jamie Fiueash, 5. James Cunningham, 6. John Redley, 7. Mark Haywood, 8. Chris Brewster, 9. James Grant, 10. Scott Christianson, 11. Adrian Ward. Subs: 12. Peter Sweet (for Brewster, 31), 14. Dave Waller (for Christianson, 88), 15. Ryan Sallows (not used).

St Francis (white with green sleeves / green / green): 1. Pat Gannon, 2. Micky Sheil, 3. Denville Hopkins, 4. Mark Turnbull, 5. Ali Spencer, 6. Peter Fitzroy, 7. Mark Shanahan, 8. Dave Mason, 9. Phil Marples, 10. Tim Wilkins, 11. Jason McNabee. Subs: 12. Stuart Dorn (for Shanahan, ht), 14. Danny Bowley (for Sheil, 75), 15. Rod Mason (not used).

Referee: Harry Ford (Crawley).

Goals:
0-1 Jason McNabee (8)
1-1 Scott Christianson (35)
2-1 James Grant (58)

Thursday 20th July 2000

Kidsgrove Athletic 1 Stafford Rangers 3
Pre-Season Friendly
At: Hollinswood Road
Kick-off: 7-30 pm
Admission: £3; Programme: none
Attendance: 156
Weather: sunny


Stafford Rangers began a new era following promotion to the Dr Martens League Premier Division with their opening 2000/01 pre-season friendly at North-West Counties League side Kidsgrove Athletic.

Compared to last season Western Division title-winning side, manager Ian Painter introduced three new faces – defenders Chris Brindley and Darren Simkin along with midfielder Neil Smith.

Stafford were well on top during the opening 15 minutes with Paul Kiely and Scott Dundas both going close with shots from outside the Kidsgrove area. Kidsgrove striker Carl Bayley brought out a diving save from Richard Williams before the visitors eventually opened the scoring in the 20th minute. A deep left wing corner delivered by Darren Shaw was headed back into the danger area by Chris Brindley for Kiely to flick a header into the net from 6 yards.

Kidsgrove equalised in the 31st minute when a misunderstanding in the Rangers defence allowed Andy Kinsey to find Bayley unmarked on the right side of the area. He cut inside and beat Williams with a shot that went in off the far post.

Eight minutes later Jason Smith created space down the right for Leigh Everritt to run on to and cross from the byeline. Tony Eccleston leaped high in front of goal to head in from close range. Jason Smith and Kiely both went close with cross shots before the latter got his second goal of the night. Eccleston did well to hold up a ball into the area before laying it back for Kiely to fire home low inside the upright from 20 yards right on half time.

The scoreline at the end of the first half was also the final score with were no further goals during the second half. It was punctuated with several Rangers’ substitutions and Ian Painter can be pleased with the performances of his new faces along with a number of last season’s regulars in this highly entertaining game.

Kidsgrove Athletic (blue/blue/blue): 1. Damian Grange, 2. Steve Davies, 3. John Evans, 4. Danny McVey, 5. Wayne Mountford, 6. Steve Colclough, 7. Chris Bermingham, 8. Andy Kinsey, 9. Carl Bayley, 10. Neil Dixon, 11. Michael Williamson. Subs: GK. Simon Pay (for Grange, ht), 15. Steve Eaton (for Dixon, 67).

Stafford Rangers (maroon/maroon/maroon): 1. Richard Williams, 2. Leigh Everritt, 3. Darren Shaw, 4. Stuart Ryder, 5. Chris Brindley, 6. Darren Simkin, 7. Jason Smith, 8. Neil Smith, 9. Tony Eccleston, 10. Paul Kiely, 11. Scott Dundas. Subs: 17. Nick Carter (for Shaw, ht), 15. Richard Swain (for Eccleston, 60), 16. Dean Craven (for Jason Smith, 60), 73. x. David Read (for Ryder, 74), x. Dominic Heath (for Neil Smith, 74), GK. Karl Ward (not used).

Referee: E Preece.

Goals:
0-1 Richard Mitchell (19)
1-1 Carl Bayley (31)
1-2 Tony Eccleston (39)
1-3 Richard Mitchell (45)

Eton Wick 1 RS Basingstoke 2

Tuesday 16th May 2000
Eton Wick 1 RS Basingstoke 2
Cherry Red Records Chiltonian League Premier Division
At: Eton Wick Recreation Ground
Kick-off: 6-45 pm
Admission: none; Programme: £1
Attendance: 45 (headcount)
Weather: cloudy


In a game watched in the company of Mick Burt, RS Basingstoke took the lead in the 19th minute when Neil Green scored with a low 20-yard drive on the run sent into the bottom-right corner. They held their advantage to the interval despite Eton Wick hitting a post.

Now attacking the changing rooms end, the visitors extended their lead 10 minutes after the restart. Richard Kalwarczyk wrong-footed Russell Quelch on the edge of the area and sent a low shot into the bottom-left corner of the net.

With the light fading fast, Eton Wick pressed for a goal and pulled one back near the end through Jimmy Hartridge. Good work by Steve Wignall set up the chance and Hartridge stabbed the ball home in a goalmouth meleé.

Eton Wick Recreation Ground was fully railed off with no cover and boasted fine views to the east of Windsor Castle!

Eton Wick (orange/black/black): 1. Rob Curtis, 2. Dene White, 3. Mick Gingell, 4. Barry Pitcher, 5. Mick McManus, 6. Martin Cox, 7. Jimmy Hartridge, 8. Russell Quelch, 9. Francis Araguez, 10. Leroy Messitt, 11. Dean Bone. Subs: 12. Phil Bone (for Dean Bone, 67), 14. Keith White (for Araguez, 70), 15. Steve Wignall (not used).

RS Basingstoke (blue/blue/blue): 1. Tim Hyde, 2. Simon Regan, 3. Colin Davis, 4. Darren Barham, 5. Paul Jones, 6. Mark Fox, 7. John Hawke, 8. Wayne Barber, 9. Matthew Haystaff, 10. Neil Green, 11. Richard Kalwarczyk. Subs: 12. Andy Davis (for Regan, 80).

Referee: Terry Coates (Winnersh).

Goals:
0-1 Neil Green (19)
0-2 Richard Kalwarczyk (55)
1-2 Jimmy Hart (90)

Cards:
Eton Wick: Russell Quelch (YC, 65)
RS Basingstoke: none

Saturday 13th May 2000

Saturday 13th May 2000
Fleet Spurs 2 Vosper Thorneycroft 3
Hampshire League Division 1
At: Kennels Lane
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: none; Programme: none
Attendance: 20 (headcount)
Weather: warm and sunny


Fleet Spurs (red and blue stripes / blue / red): 1. G. Walker, 2. John Porter, 3. Pat Humphries, 4. D. Shephard, 5. M. Burke, 6. Stuart Head, 7. J. Cottrell, 8. R. Warren, 9. L. Ryan, 10. D. Winning, 11. D. Baker. Subs: 12. R. Taylor (for Baker, 82), 14. P. Drage (for Shephard, 66), 15. A. Jolly (for Head, 72).

Vosper Thorneycroft (green and navy blue stripes / navy blue / green and navy blue hoops): 1. D. Bowers, 2. M. Culverson, 3. A. Diaper, 4. A. Patteson, 5. J. Llewellyn, 6. A. J. Price, 7. Rob Thurston, 8. S. Brown, 9. Andy R. Price, 10. J. Hurst, 11. M. Moffatt. Subs: 12. M. White (for Culverson, 36), 14. D. Draper (not used), 15. F. Jackowbowski (not used).

Referee: Kevin Willey (Andover).

Goals:
0-1 Andy R. Price (42)
0-2 Andy R. Price (75)
1-2 L. Ryan (78)
2-2 L. Ryan (84)
2-3 M. Moffatt (90+1)

Cards:
None.

Saturday 6th May 2000

Saturday 6th May 2000
Stafford Rangers 2 Solihull Borough 1
Dr Martens League Western Division
At: Marston Road
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: -; Programme:-
Attendance: 1893
Weather: -


So it took until the last game to secure the Championship but great to do it at Marston Road in front of another impressive crowd. Falling behind to an Andy Penny headed goal on 22 minutes, Paul Kiely then equalised on 40 minutes with an unstoppable first time 20-yard volley. Then, fittingly, Supporters Player of the Season Richard Mitchell netted the winner nine minutes from time, his 42nd goal of the season.

There was a real party atmosphere at Marston Road with promotion guaranteed and the Championship just one point away. Before the game, Nicky Law was named Managers Player of the Season and Richard Mitchell picked up the Supporters award ahead of Jason Smith and third-placed Ronnie Walker. Once the game kicked off, there was a quiet opening period until the visitors stunned all but a few of the 1,893 crowd. A free-kick on the right was headed in at the far post by former Rangers defender Andy Penny. Stafford drew level five minutes from the break. A cross from Jason Smith into the Solihull area was headed clear by Gary Knight straight to Paul Kiely stood unmarked on the edge of the area. He unleashed a powerful first time right foot first time volley which Richard Anstiss could only watch fly into the bottom right corner of the net. What a goal!

The second half was very much an end-to-end affair. A minute after the restart, Solihull's Robin Judd headed just wide of Richard Williams' right-hand post with the Rangers keeper desperately trying to get his fingertips to the ball. Chances were created at both end until Mitchell struck nine minutes from time. Tony Eccleston, on as substitute, got on the end of a Steve Jones cross. Anstiss could only block his short and Mitchell was there to fire home the loose ball from four yards out. This was his 35th goal in the League, equalling Len Anslow best post-war total way back in 1948/49. When the final whistle went, it didn't matter what Moor Green has done at Bedworth United (they won 4-1) as Rangers had more than the single point needed.

After the match, Leigh Everritt was presented with the Championship Shield and the players their winners medals but celebrations were cut short when a supporter collapsed on the pitch. Happily, he has recovered in hospital from a potentially life-threatening condition.

Saturday 29th April 2000

Bromsgrove Rovers 4 Stafford Rangers 3
Dr Martens League Western Division
At: Victoria Ground
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: £5; Programme: £1-50p
Attendance: 851
Weather: sunny

Brocton 2 Hanford 1

Monday 24th April 2000
Brocton 2 Hanford 1
Springbank Vending Midland League
At: Rowley Park
Kick-off: 6-30 pm
Admission: none; Programme: none
Attendance: 30 (headcount)
Weather: drizzle during second half


This turned out to be a disappointing game with nothing at stake.

Brocton took the lead in the 12th minute. A long clearance by keeper Darren Hill bounced over the Hanford defence. Andrew Harrison latched onto the ball inside the area and fed Ian Flude who slotted home from eight yards out.

The home side held their lead until the third minute of first-half stoppage time. Found wide on the right by a diagonal pass, Colin Fletcher crossed deep to the far post where Tim Birch stabbed the ball home at close range. By this time Hill was hampered by a knee problem.

The game was heading for a draw until Brocton netted an 89th-minute winner. Andrew Harrison beat Jason Coventry with a low right-foot shot into the bottom right corner from 10 yards out.

Brocton (green with green and white sleeves / white / green): 1. Darren Hill, 2. Andy Chandler, 3. Graham Cope, 4. Dave Haggan, 5. Mark Davies, 6. Richard Pemberton, 7. Ben Harrison, 8. Ian Flude, 9. Andrew Harrison, 10. Steve Bergin, 11. Mark Thomson. Subs: 12. Clive Oscar (for Bergin, 76), 14. Mike Oscar (not used), 15. Craig Hilley (not used).

Hanford (black and purple stripes / yelllow / yellow): 1. Jason Coventry, 2. David Field, 3. Shane Kent, 4. Andrew Atherton, 5. Paul Goodstadt, 6. Carl Bailey, 7. Dave Reading, 8. Lee Hartshorn, 9. Tim Birch, 10. Colin Fletcher, 11. Peter Clarke. Subs: 12. Simon Schwarz (for Bailey, ht), 14. Terry Whitehurst (not used), 15. Michael Quinn (not used).

Referee: Andrew Lawrence.

Goals:
1-0 Ian Flude (12)
1-1 Tim Birch (45+3)
2-1 Andrew Harrison (89)

Stafford Rangers 1 Bilston Town 1

Monday 24th April 2000
Stafford Rangers 1 Bilston Town 1
Dr Martens League Western Division
At: Marston Road
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: £5; Programme: £1
Attendance: 1971
Weather: sunny spells


Without serveral key players. Rangers had to come from behind to gain a point against a determined Bilston side out to avenge their heavy Boxing Day defeat on their own Queen Street ground. With two games to go, Stafford cannot be passed by Moor Green or Hinckley United and with a far superior goal difference are virtually assurred of the Championship. Scott Voice put the visitors ahead before Jason Smith equalised in the second half to ease the nerves of the biggest crowd at Marston Road since the Conference years.

Rangers had problems before the start of this Easter Monday afternoon fixture when goalkeeper Richard Williams and skipper Leigh Everritt failed to arrive at the ground (they travel together and were under the impression it was an evening kick off); this was in addition to being without central defender Stuart Ryder (injured) and Nicky Law (caretaker manager at Chesterfield) plus the long term injury to striker Tony Eccleston.

In the 3rd minute Bilston skipper tested his former colleague Price in the Rangers goal with a deep cross that the keeper had to stretch for to tip away. On 18 minutes Williams, the Biston keeper, found himself in trouble when he let a free kick from Read slip through his hands and Osbourne had to concede a hasty corner. Rangers however had not settled down and were stunned three minutes later when Bilston took the lead. Burgher worked the ball down the right to feed a ball to Leeding whose first time centre was met by Voice to plant a glancing header into the net.

Bilston then seemed content to frustrate the home side with tight and aggressive marking and only occasionally did Rangers threaten the Bilston goal. Kiely put an awkwardly bouncing ball high over the bar and later saw his high hanging cross dropped by Williams under pressure from Mitchell but the ball went just wide of the far post. Before the half closed Dundas fired in a fierce 25 yarder that Williams did well to pluck out of the top corner.

A determined Stafford Rangers came out for the second half and within two minutes Jones got a header on target which Williams saved. Five minutes later Kiely picked up a through ball halfway inside Bilston territory and although hotly pursued by Rollason got in a shot from just inside the area that Williams could only block and as the ball span across the face of the Bilston goal Mitchell and Smith narrowly failed to make contact. Soon afterwards Walker found Kiely with a through ball and although the 20 yard volley beat Williams it struck the crossbar and came out.

On the hour Jones took a quick free kick which produced a 25 yard dipping shot by Dundas that Williams did well to tip over. The resulting corner was cleared to Smith just outside the area who struck a low shot through a crowd of players into the net. Rangers went all out for the winner which would have guaranteed the championship with Jones and Kiely shooting inches wide of the target. Kiely had a shot cleared off the line by Leeding eight minutes from time and in the dying moments a Jones header forced Williams to pull off a diving save at the foot of his post.

Stafford Rangers: 1. Gary Price, 2. Delwyn Humphreys, 3. Darren Boughey, 4. Brett Wilcox, 5. Ronald Walker, 6. David Read, 7. Paul Kiely, 8. Jason Smith, 9. Stephen Jones, 10. Richard Mitchell, 11. Scott Dundas. Substitutes: 12 Devon White (For Mitchell, 82), 14. Leigh Everritt (not used), 15 Daren Bloor (not used).

Bilston Town: 1. Richard Williams, 2. Stuart Leeding, 3. Gary Osbourne, 4. Mark Clifton, 5. Lee Rollason, 6. Gavin Stone, 7. Symon Burgher, 8. Leon Jackson, 9. Scott Voice, 10. Danny Williams, 11. Joe Jackson. Substitutes: 12. Henry Wright (not used), 14. Jason Rhodes (not used), 15. David Benton (not used)

Referee: Mr J. R. Hubbard (Leicester)

Goals:
0-1 Scott Voice (22)
1-1 Jason Smith (61)

Cards:
Stafford: none
Bilston: Stuart Leeding (YC, 10), Leon Jackson (YC, 29)

Saturday 22nd April 2000

Blakenall 1 Stafford Rangers 4
Dr Martens League Western Division
At: Red Lion Ground
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: £4; Programme: £1-10p (52 pages)
Attendance: 519
Weather: sunny spells


Blakenall (blue and white halves / blue / blue) 1. Neil Olden, 2. Darren Simkin, 3. Stephen Hillman, 4. Lee Knight, 5. Leon Jackson, 6. Ian Cooper, 7. Jon Worsey, 8. Chris Smith, 9. John Muir, 10. Kevin Thompson, 11. Andy Dodd. Subs: 12. Scott Colcombe (for Cooper, 70), 14. Matt Coppin (for Smith, 77) 15. Richard Gardner (for Dodd, 60).

Stafford Rangers (maroon/maroon/maroon): 1. Richard Williams, 2. Leigh Everritt, 3. David Read, 4. Brett Wilcox, 5. Stuart Ryder, 6. Ronnie Walker, 7. Paul Kiely, 8. Jason Smith, 9. Steve Jones, 10. Richard Mitchell, 11. Scott Dundas. Subs: 12. Devon White (for Dundas, 80) 14. Delwyn Humphreys (for Mitchell, 74) 15. Darren Boughey (for Ryder, 26).

Referee: DJ Adcock (Long Eaton).

Goals:
0-1 Richard Mitchell (32)
1-1 John Muir (45)
1-2 Paul Kiely (46)
1-3 Richard Mitchell (61)
1-4 Steve Jones (82)

Saturday 15th April 2000

Hythe & Dibden 3 Locks Heath 0
Hampshire League Premier Division
At: Ewart Recreation Ground
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: none; Programme: none
Attendance: 50 (headcount)
Weather: rain

Saturday 8th April 2000

Hayling United 2 AFC Aldermaston 1
Hampshire League Premier Division
At: Mengham Park
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: none; Programme: none
Attendance: 40 (headcount)
Weather: warm and sunny, breezy

Englefield Green Rovers 9 Taplow United 1

Saturday 1st April 2000
Englefield Green Rovers 9 Taplow United 1
Cherry Red Records Chiltonian League Premier Division
At: Coopers Hill Sports Ground
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: none; Programme: 50p
Attendance: 10 (headcount)
Weather: drizzle


Englefield Green (35 points from 25 games) went into the game in seventh position while struggling Taplow (7 points from 26 games) occupied 17th and last position in the Premier Division table.

Englefield Green Rovers (green and white hoops / white / green): 1. S. Miles, 2. Steve Howard, 3. S. Turner, 4. Gareth Morgan, 5. Gary Taylor, 6. R. Banks, 7. Alan Beere, 8. Paul Coxhill, 9. P. Bunn, 10. Roy Cloake, 11. John Jones. Subs: 14. Kev Saunders (for Coxhill, 67), 16. P. Solari (for Howard, 65).

Taplow United (claret wth sky blue sleeves / claret / claret): 1. D. Noble, 2. Robert Haynes, 3. Ben Chima, 4. Trevor Harries, 5. R. Bentley, 6. D. Rayner, 7. K. Mujram, 8. M. Hayes, 9. P. Collerton, 10. J. Watts, 11. Scott Carson. Subs: 12. R. Hawkins (not used), 14. Dave Bunce (for Chima, 36).

Referee: S. Dipple.

Goals:
1-0 Alan Beere (21)
2-0 John Jones (27)
2-1 M. Hayes (53)
3-1 Paul Coxhill (56)
4-1 John Jones (62
5-1 John Jones (66)
6-1 John Jones (68)
7-1 John Jones (72)
8-1 Gareth Morgan (77)
9-1 P. Bunn (84)

Saturday 25th March 2000

Paget Rangers 0 Stafford Rangers 2
Dr Martens League Western Division
At: Vale Stadium
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: £4; Programme: £1-20p (36 pages)
Attendance: 335
Weather: -


Paget Rangers (yellow/black/amber) 1. Tony Rowe, 2. John Kinsella, 3. Stuart Clark, 4. Richard Brown, 5. Paul Brogan, 6. Andy Burns, 7. Adam Whitehouse, 8. Damian Cull, 9. Dean Wright, 10. Andy Harris, 11. Stuart Randall. Subs: 12. Noel Malcolm (for Wright, 44) 14. John Price (not used), 15. Damian Whitcombe (for Harris, ht).

Stafford Rangers (maroon/maroon/maroon): 1. Gary Price, 2. Darren Boughey, 3. Leigh Everritt, 4. Brett Wilcox, 5. Stuart Rider, 6. Nicky Law, 7. Jason Smith, 8. Ronnie Walker, 9. Devon White, 10. Richard Mitchell, 11. Scott Dundas. Subs: 12. Andrew Bradley (not used), 14. Steve Jones (for Walker, 70), 15. David Read (not used).

Referee: CR Gawthrop (Cambridge).

Goals:
Scott Dundas (76)
Scott Dundas (82)

Saturday 18th March 2000

Sevenoaks Town 4 New Romney 0
British Energy Kent County League Inter Regional Cup Semi Final
At: Greatness Park
Kick-off: 2-30 pm
Admission: none; Programme: none
Attendance: 55 (headcount)
Weather: sunny


There was a dramatic start when New Romney’s Jason Negus picked up a booking for a foul inside the opening minute.

Mark Bushnell gave Sevenoaks the lead in the 29th minute. He headed home from just outside the six-yard box at the far post after Micky Hallett flicked on Paul Gammage right-wing inswinging corner.

The lead was doubled a minute later through Richard King after Lee Aldridge played a low ball from the bye-line across the face of goal which beat New Romney keeper Matt Ellse at the near post. Dave Norburn passed to King who netted with a low shot from six yards out.

The visitors rarely troubled home keeper Darren Smart and Sevenoaks further increased their lead just before the hour mark. Kevin Marsh headed home at the far post via the underside of the bar from Mark Standing’s left-wing cross.

The outcome wasn’t in doubt and Sevenoaks wrapped up the win that took them into the final with a fourth goal scored in the 79th minute. James Townsend, out of the left, fed Standing who finished with a low angled drive from 15 yards into the bottom right corner.

Sevenoaks Town (sky blue and black stripes / black / black): 1. Darren Smart, 2. Lee Aldridge, 3. Mark Standing, 4. James Townsend, 5. Kevin Marsh, 6. Dave Norburn, 7. Mark Bushnell, 8. Lee May, 9. Richard King, 10. Micky Hallett, 11. Paul Gammage. Subs: 12. Colin Isaacs (for King, 71), 14. Peter Harrington (for Hallett, 54), 15. Neil Bell (for Gammage, 66).

New Romney (yellow with navy blue sleeves / navy blue / yellow): 1. Matt Ellse, 2. Steven Philpott, 3. Alan Stevens, 4. Ashley Best, 5. Paul Brown, 6. Wayne Henley, 7. Paul Dempsey, 8. Jason Negus, 9. Kevin Worthington, 10. Joseph Latty, 11. Philip Johnson. Subs: 12. Simon Spiers (for Philpott, 71), 14. Justin Philpott (for Negus, 61), 15. Dean Coleman (for Worthington, 73).

Referee: Ian Crouch.

Goals:
1-0 Mark Bushnell (29)
2-0 Richard King (30)
3-0 Kevin Marsh (59)
4-0 Mark Standing (79)

Saturday 11th March 2000

Yate Town 0 Stafford Rangers 3
Dr Martens League Western Division
At: Lodge Road
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Programme: £1 (20 pages)
Attendance: 304
Weather: -


Yate Town (white / navy blue / navy blue): 1. Andy Fisher, 2. Ian Howse, 3. Neil Barrett, 4. Christian Nelson, 5. Adie Taverner, 6. Danny Iddles, 7. Fidell Richards, 8. Andy Catley, 9. Jon Lang, 10. Danny Hazlehurst 11. Marcus Bloomfield. Subs: 12. Andy Smith (for Lang, 76), 14. Graeme Little (for Catley, 55), 15. Paul King (for Bloomfield, 84).

Stafford Rangers (maroon / maroon / maroon): 1. Gary Price, 2. Darren Boughey, 3. Leigh Everritt, 4. Brett Wilcox, 5. Stuart Rider, 6. David Read, 7. Jason Smith, 8. Ronnie Walker, 9. Devon White, 10. Richard Mitchell, 11. Scott Dundas. Subs: 12. Delwyn Humphreys (for White, 63), 14. Andy Bradley (for Walker, 85), 15. Steve Jones (for Wilcox, 76).

Referee: B Wade (Isle of Wight).

Goals:
0-1 Richard Mitchell (43)
0-2 Devon White (49)
0-3 Richard Mitchell (81)

Saturday 4th March 2000

Woodford United 3 ON Chenecks 0
United Counties League Division 1
At: Byfield Road
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: £2; Programme:-
Attendance: 50 (headcount)
Weather: sunny


Woodford took the lead in the 15th minute. Mark Hill robbed a defender out on the right and crossed into the area. Lee Issac saw an initial shot saved but scored from the rebound.

They doubled their advantage 11 minutes after the restart through Hill. He scored with a first-time header from Steve Swann cross from the right.

Hill scored his second and Woodford’s third goal in the 78th minute. Put clear down the left by Kevin Aris’ throughball, he outpaced Barry Cummins and slotted home in a one-on-one with Chenecks keeper Steve Jennings.

Woodford United (red/red/red): 1. Stuart Brown, 2. Steve Swann, 3. Jamie Wright, 4. Gary Tunnard, 5. Lee Panter, 6. Pete Larkin, 7. Keith Francis, 8. Aidy Mann, 9. Mark Hill, 10. Lee Issac, 11. Chris Martin. Subs: 12. Aidy York (for Hill, 82), 14. Steve Kirchin (for Issac, 69), 15. Kevin Aris (for Panter, 72), 16. Stuart Hayes, 17. Anthony Powell.

ON Chenecks (blue and yellow / blue / blue): 1. Steve Jennings, 2. Fraser Gascoyne, 3. Damien Maye, 4. Gareth Edwards, 5. Julian Barford, 6. Neil Willsher, 7. Marcus Prickett, 8. Amos Donnelly, 9. Lee West, 10. Tony Kirkland, 11. Barry Cummins. Subs: 12. Lee Burdett, 14. Patrick Francis (for Donnelly, 83), 15. Simon Hancock.

Referee: B Male (Desborough).

Goals:
Lee Issac (15)
Mark Hill (57)
Mark Hill (78)

Saturday 26th February 2000

Worcester Park 2 Shottermill 1
RSR Tyres Surrey County Premier League
At: Green Lane
Kick-off: 2-15 pm
Admission: none; Programme: none
Attendance: 15 (headcount)
Weather: sunny spells


Worcester Park (green/green/green): 1. Peter King, 2. Mark Hills, 3. D Costelloe, 4. Robert Dilger, 5. Darren Anderson, 6. S Burgess, 7. Micky Petruzziello, 8. Dave Knowelden, 9. Paul King, 10. Paul Carew, 11. D Adorian. Subs: 12. D Phillips (for Hills, 63), 14. Lee Mooney, 15. Matt Minor (for King, 82).

Shottermill (white / navy blue / navy blue): 1. John Knowles, 2. T Rowden, 3. M Dunn, 4. M Harlock, 5. Lance Wells, 6. S Jones, 7. A Clark, 8. A Hibbard, 9. G Pert, 10. M Goodyear, 11. T Shawe. Subs: 12. D Lockley (for Goodyear, 82), 14. M Channon.

Referee: J Martin.

Goals:
1-0 Dave Knowelden (46)
2-0 Paul King (48)
2-1 A Clark (53)

Maidstone United 3 Crockenhill 1

Saturday 19th February 2000
Maidstone United 3 Crockenhill 1
British Energy Kent County League Premier Division
At: Athletic Ground, London Road
Kick-off: 2-45 pm
Admission: £2; Programme: £1 (16 pages)
Attendance: 110 (headcount)
Weather: sunny spells


Maidstone United (amber/black/amber): 1. Sarb Sandhu, 2. Gary Wallace, 3. Graham Martin, 4. Gary Hemens, 5. Phil Walker, 6. Matt Toms, 7. Ricky Harris, 8. Paul Brown, 9. Glenn Andrews, 10. Stuart Roberts, 11. Nicky Byers. Subs: 12. Scott Price, 14. Alex Gray (for Andrews, 81), 16. Simon Toms (for Matt Toms, 72).

Crockenhill (red and white stripes with red sleeves / red / red): 1. Matt Summers, 2. Ron Jeffreys, 12. Derek Hall, 4. Danny Melton, 5. Ian Hall, 6. Paul Brown, 7. Peter Brown, 8. Alfie Charlton, 9. Bradley Jeffery, 10. Billy Scamp, 11. Lee Godfrey. Subs: none.

Referee: A Shepherd.

Goals:
0-1 Bradley Jeffery (9)
1-1 Graham Martin (15)
2-1 Glenn Andrews (28)
3-1 Paul Brown (76)

Blisworth 3 Newport Pagnell Town 1

Saturday 12th February 2000
Blisworth 3 Newport Pagnell Town 1
United Counties League Division 1
At: Courteenhall Road
Kick-off: 2-30 pm
Admission: none; Programme: free news sheet
Attendance: 15 (headcount)
Weather: sunny, cold wind


Blisworth (yellow/black/black): 1. Chris Smith, 2. Mark Bonner, 3. Mark Bates, 4. Mark Edwards, 5. Richard Chaffer, 6. Tom Bland, 7. Neil Ryall, 8. Pete Gregory, 9. Colin Cooper, 10. John Ryall, 11. Graham Bartlett. Subs: 12. James Bradford (for Bulliman, 69), 14. Ian Wake (for Cooper, 66), 15. Mick Bulliman (for John Ryall, 14), 16. Dean Freeman (not used).

Newport Pagnall Town (white with green chest hoop / green / green): 1. Steve Bellew, 2. Gareth Hawdley, 3. Matt Willmott, 4. Ben Cooper, 5. Damien Crompton, 6. Jamie Ray, 7. Michael Riley, 8. Paul Stokes, 9. Donni Burton, 10. Liam Diggins, 11. Paul Edgeworth. Subs: 12. Bernie McConnell (for Diggins, 54), 14. Victor Symister (not used), 15. Simon Plumbridge (for Ray, 70), 16. Danny Norris (not used), 17. Dean Trowbridge (not used).

Referee: R Caygill.

Goals:
1-0 Colin Cooper (28)
1-1 Paul Edgeworth (60)
2-1 Neil Ryall (63)
3-1 Mark Bates (84)

Saturday 5th February 2000

Stafford Rangers 2 Tiverton Town 1
Dr Martens League Western Division
At: Marston Road
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: £5; Programme: £1 (40 pages)
Attendance: 995
Weather: cloudy, dry


Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Richard Williams, 2. Darren Boughey, 3. Leigh Everritt, 4. Ronnie Walker, 5. Stuart Ryder, 6. Nicky Law, 7. Jason Smith, 8. Scott Dundas, 9. Tony Eccleston, 10. Richard Mitchell, 11. Steve Jones. Subs: 12. Andy Bradley (for Dundas, 89), 14. Delwyn Humphreys (for Eccleston, 30), 15. David Read (not used).

Tiverton Town (yellow/yellow/yellow): 1. Paul Edwards, 2. Luke Vinnecombe, 3. Neil Saunders, 4. Paul Tatterton, 5. Nick Marker, 6. Peter Conning, 7. Kevin Nancekivell, 8. Dominic Richardson, 9. Paul Everett, 10. Scott Rogers, 11. Geraint Baker. Subs: 12. Pete Varley (for Richardson, 83), 14. Stuart Smith (for Bater, 59), 15. Richard Pears (not used).

Referee: JR Hubbard (Leicester).

Goals:
0-1 Paul Everett (4)
1-1 Richard Mitchell (78)
2-1 Leigh Everritt (86)

Olney Town 3 Blisworth 1

Saturday 29th January 2000
Olney Town 3 Blisworth 1
United Counties League Division 1
At: East Street
Kick-off: 2-00 pm
No admission charge or programme
Attendance: 15 (headcount)
Weather: sunny spells, strong wind


Olney Town (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Trevor Stone, 2. Mark Lancaster, 3. Asa Aldridge, 4. Des Cook, 5. Guy Stewart, 6. Paul Stimson, 7. Brian Stonnell, 8. Malcolm Thomas, 9. Dave Lancaster, 10. Greg Hardie, 11. Marcus Nelson. Subs: 12. Michael Smith (for Hardie, 87), 14. Paul Adams (for Stonnell, 72), 15. Nick Johnson (for Aldridge, 90), 16. Russell Ward.

Blisworth (yellow/black/yellow): 1. Steve Paul, 12. Mark Bates, 3. Tom Bland, 4. Mark Edwards, 5. Richard Chaffer, 6. Mark Brown, 7. Simon Morrice, 8. Richard Large, 9. Graham Bartlett, 10. John Ryall, 11. Paul Gibbs. Subs: 14. Pete Gregory (for Large, 13), 15. Neil Fluery (for Morrice, 34), 16. Kenny Heath.

Referee: Mr O'Connell (Flitwick).

Goals:
1-0 Dave Lancaster (38)
1-1 Mark Bates (52)
2-1 Marcus Nelson (65)
3-1 Dave Lancaster (85)

Saturday 22nd January 2000

Racing Club Warwick 1 Stafford Rangers 1
Dr Martens League Western Division
At: Hampton Road
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Admission: -; Programme £1 (32 pages)
Attendance: 225
Weather: -


Racing Club Warwick (yellow and black stripes / black / black): 1. Warren Ayers, 2. Stuart Hepburn, 3. Matt Pendleton, 4. Colin Wells, 5. Ian Cooksey, 6. Andy lloyd, 7. Darren Weston, 8. Matt Tovey, 9. Robert Forster, 10. Geoff Amos, 11. Simon Windsor. Subs: 12. Paul Eden, 14. Nick Keaney, 15. Brian Agar (all not used).

Stafford Rangers (maroon/maroon/maroon): 1. Richard Williams, 2. Darren Boughey, 3. Leigh Everritt, 4. Brett Wilcox, 5. Ronnie Walker, 6. Nicky Law, 7. Jason Smith, 8. Scott Dundas, 9. Tony Eccleston, 10. Richard Mitchell, 11. Steve Jones. Subs: 12. David Read, 14. Delwyn Humphreys (for Jones, 78), 15. Andy Bradley (for Wilcox, 34).

Referee: PB Wing (Hinckley).

Goals:
0-1 Richard Mitchell (55)
1-1 Simon Windsor (65)

Snodland 3 St Georges Wrotham 1

Saturday 15 January 2000
Snodland 3 St Georges Wrotham 1
Kent FA Intermediate Cup Quarter Final
At: Potyns Playing Field
Kick-off: 1-30 pm
Admission: none; Programme: £1 (28 pages)
Attendance: 40 (headcount)
Weather: drizzle


Two late goals from Snodland saved the 40-strong crowd from extra time on a damp January afternoon in Kent, shortly after plucky visitors St Georges Wrotham had been reduced to 10 men.

On a roped of pitch that was part of a larger playing field, Snodland, the Kent County League Premier Division leaders, took the lead in the 15th minute. Visiting keeper Matthew Clark dropped a right-wing corner at the near post and Matt Lemione fired home at close range.

The visitors, who play in the lower Kent County League Division One West, got back on level terms six minutes after the interval. Steve Davies hit a rising 25-yard right-foot drive that Darrell Broadmore, off his line, could only palm into the net.

Extra time was looming when St Georges were reduced to ten men with the dismissal of Gary Kitt for second booking in the 85th minute. Snodland took advantage to regain the lead. Ricky Harris beat the offside trap down the right and crossed into the area where Lemoine eventually scored after Clark tried to block. The victory was wrapped up with a third goal in stoppage time when Malcolm Smith fired home from eight yard out inside a crowded area.

Snodland (yellow/red/black): 1. Darrell Broadmore, 2. Lee Smith, 3. Gareth John, 4. Martin Truscott, 5. Jason Fenton, 6. Lee Dawes, 7. Matt Lemoine, 8. Malcolm Smith, 9. Nathen Sims, 10. Ricky Harris, 11. Lee Thompson. Subs: 12. Matt Flint (for Sims, 75), 14. Duncan Hill (for Dawes, 75), 15. Stephen McMorrow (not used).

St Georges Wrotham (blue/blue/blue): 1. Matthew Clark, 2. Gary Kitt, 3. Chris Miller, 4. Stuart Kitt, 5. Neil O'Sheen, 6. Darren Fisher, 7. Tony Hoadley, 8. Mick Slade, 9. Steve Davies, 10. Chris Smith, 11. Nick Preece. Subs: 12. Steve Burton (for Davies, 75), 15. Darren Hills (not used).

Referee: Darrell Ragsdale.

Goals:
1-0 Matt Lemoine (15)
1-1 Steve Davies (51)
2-1 Matt Lemoine (90
3-1 Malcolm Smith (90+3)

Cards:
Snodland: Lee Dawes (YC, 40)
St Georges: Gary Kitt (YC, 39), Mick Slade (YC, 42), Gary Kitt (YC/RC, 85)

Shepshed Dynamo 1 Stafford Rangers 5

Saturday 8 January 2000
Shepshed Dynamo 1 Stafford Rangers 5
Dr Martens League Western Division
At: The Dovecote
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Attendance: 335


Shepshed Dynamo: 1. Steve Choppen, 2. Scott Tallis, 3. Paul Robilliard, 4. Michael Cox, 5. Jez Carr, 6. Andy Davies, 7. Michael Stevenson, 8. Kevin Holleron, 9. David Pearson, 10. Ibrahim Bah, 11. Lee McGlinchey. Subs: 12. Andy Commander (for Cox, 72), 14. Michael McLarnon (for Holleron, 20), 15. Andy Lucas (for Stevenson, ht).

Stafford Rangers: 1. Richard Williams, 2. Andy Bradley, 3. David Read, 4. Brett Wilcox, 5. Ronnie Walker 6. Nicky Law, 7. Jason Smith, 8. Scott Dundas, 9. Delwyn Humphreys, 10. Richard Mitchell, 11. Steve Jones. Subs: 12. Leigh Everritt (not used), 14. Richard Swain (for Humphreys, 83), 15. Daren Bloor (for Walker, 80).

Referee: D. J. Adcock (Long Eaton).

Goals:
0-1 Scott Dundas (20)
0-2 Scott Dundas (27)
0-3 Steve Jones (35)
1-3 David Pearson (40)
1-4 Delwyn Humphreys (45)
1-5 Richard Mitchell (52)