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NEWS ( Last Updated on 22/07/14 ) 26th July 2012 Minehead AFC start pre-season training next Tuesday (3rd July) when the first session commences at The Recreation Ground at 7pm with anyone interested in playing for the First or Reserve teams being encouraged to attend. Training will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays until the season begins on Saturday August 11th. Players are requested to bring trainers and boots. 25th May 2012 Pictures from the club's well attended Presentation Evening, courtesy of About My Area website.
All Winners First XI: Supporters' Player of the Season: Stefan Phillips Players' Player of the Season: Chris Yeates Managers' Player of the Season: Stefan Phillips Geriatric Player of the Season: Mike Mullen Top Scorer: Stefan Phillips Goal of Season: Luke Bloys (at Ashton & Backwell Utd) Young Player of the Season (Both Teams): Mike Graddon Clubman of the Season: Paul Newbold Reserve XI: Players' Player of the Season: James Browning Managers' Player of the Season: James Browning Top Scorer: Declan Green
CONNOR'S MEMORABLE SEASON England Schoolboy goalkeeper Connor Sidley-Adams has plenty of reasons to remember the 2011-12 season, which reached a new high last Wednesday when he was awarded the man of the match accolade for his performance in England’s Centenary Shield match at Brighton & Hove Albion’s Amex Arena. The picture shows Connor receiving his coveted England cap from an FA representative, earlier in his memorable season. 27th March 2012 CONNOR's CLEAN SHEET AGAINST NORTHERN IRELAND Goalkeeper Connor Sidley-Adams' England Schoolboys career reached a new high on Friday evening when he kept a clean sheet in the Centenary Shield match in Northern Ireland which England won 4-0. Though Connor featured in friendly matches during a Spanish tour recently the goalkeeper's jersey for the first match in the Centenary Shield went to the other goalkeeper in the squad of 20 Tom Betts, who conceded twice in a 2-1 defeat against Wales at Haverfordwest County's ground. Connor however was given back the jersey for the second of the four matches, and managed to keep a clean sheet in England's impressive 4-0 performance at Windsor Park, Belfast on Friday evening. Fingers crossed that Connor now retains his place for the first of two home ties which are both scheduled to be shown on Sky Sports. Saturday 12th April v Scotland (at Newcastle United FC), kick off 20.05 Saturday 26th April v Republic of Ireland (at Brighton & Hove albion) kick off 19.35
19th February 2012 Minehead’s two promising youngsters Jack Page and Connor Sidley-Adams learnt this week that they have again been selected in the Somerset County U18 side to play in the Semi-Final of the Football Association County Youth Cup this Saturday. Somerset manager Graham Clarke has named an unchanged side to travel north to face West Riding at Woodlesford, Leeds in what is the county’s most important game in many years and the match also marks their first ever appearance in the semi-finals of the national competition. 16th January 2012 Minehead AFC have appointed Paul Harrison as their new Reserve XI Manager, following the resignation of Mark Keal recently. Paul will be assisted by youth, reserve team and first team player Tim Ollerenshaw, with further backroom appointments being likely in the coming weeks. 16th January 2012 Though Minehead were without a game last weekend two of their promising youngsters were in action for Somerset U18’s in an FA County Youth Cup Quarter Final tie away to Durham, who have won the competition three times in the last six years. Striker Jack Page and goalkeeper Connor Sidley- Adams both played in the tie, and though Durham had beaten Leicestershire in the previous round scoring 11 goals in the process, Somerset managed to prevent their hosts from scoring and it was Jack Page who grabbed the headlines by scoring the only goal of the game.
2nd January 2012 The Somerset U18 friendly match against Gwent U18’s, which had been arranged for Thursday evening under lights at Irnham Road, was switched to an all-weather pitch in Radstock due the likelihood of Minehead’s ground being waterlogged. We had to give 48 hours notice to the county if the pitch was not going to be playable, and on Monday evening the game would not have started. With parts of Minehead receiving flood warnings for Tuesday, due to the forecasted torrential rain, we felt it only right to give as much notice as possible. We understand Somerset are keen for other fixtures to be staged on our ground, and with two of our players currently featuring heavily in the squad we look forward to other possibilities in the very near future. Minehead youngsters Jack Page (pictured), and Connor Sidley-Adams will therefore travel with the Somerset squad, for a 2pm kick off in Radstock. 27th December 2011 MINEHEAD TO HOST COUNTY U18's FRIENDLY Scheduled to kick off at 7pm, the fixture has been slotted in before Somerset's big FA County Youth Cup 4th Round tie when they travel to Durham on 14th January. Minehead have been selected as hosts primarily because of the continued involvement of their two players Jack Page and Connor Sidley-Adams. The club is delighted to have been invited to host such a match, and we hope that plenty of locas turn out to support our youngsters on the night.
19th December 2011 MINEHEAD TO SUPPLY EXTRA SPICE AT THIS SEASON’s XMAS DERBY Each of the three matches attracted more than 10 times the average support that all other teams in the Somerset County League experience and showed how important the fixtures are within the West Somerset sporting community. The county league table currently shows that Watchet are enjoying a slightly better season than their Boxing Day hosts, currently in 7th position against Minehead’s 11th position, with 5 points fewer. The blues will therefore be keen to win the points and keep in touch. Team news from the Minehead camp is that they will be without brothers Paul and Lee Smyth who are both serving suspensions following red cards shown in November. This season, to add a little extra spice to the occasion, Minehead will be giving a free mince pie with every matchday programme purchased, so don’t forget the kick off is at 12 noon.
17th December 2011 Both the First XI (at Nailsea Town) and the Reserves' (home to Hamilton Hawks) matches today have fallen foul of the weather and postponed. Whilst the big local derby at The Rec against Watchet Town on Boxing Day Monday is still schedule to start at 12 noon, if the weather remains as wet as it has over the past few days the christmas fixture will be in some jeopardy. Last season's xmas derby at Watchet was postponed due to a snow covered pitch. Any further news will be announced on this page as swiftly as possible. 3rd December 2011 The First XI's are in league action today when they entertain Bristol based side Stockwood Green at the Rec at 3pm. The blues won 2-1 at Stockwood Green earlier in the season, courtesy of two well taken Guy Burns goals, though the home team pressed hard for the qualiser in the dying minutes. Minehead Reserves travel to Williton today, who currently bottom of the Taunton & District Saturday League Division 3 table. The blues second string, have started their league campaign well and are currently fifth place in the table, having only dropped points in one match. Their stiffest test of the season comes next Saturday (10th December), when they travel to red-hot title favourites Appletree who have started the season by winning all of their opening six league matches.
18th November 2011 STEFAN PHILLIPS TAKES THREE STEPS UP THE PYRAMID Minehead have been rocked by the news that midfield player Stefan Phillips has left the club having been lured away by neighbours Bridgwater Town. Phillips, who in recent weeks had become disolusioned with County League football, joins Bridgwater Town, currently 13th in the EVO Stick Division One South and West three leagues higher than the Errea Premier Division. He joins former Minehead team mates Sam Hutchings, Simon Lyons and Steve Perkins who currently ply their trade at Fairfax Park. Having played Ryman League football at Leatherhead for a spell a few years ago, the 24 year old who comes from Lynton, is hoping to adapt quickly to the higher level. Amongst the spectators watching the 12 goal thriller against Nailsea United on Wednesday evening was the assistant manager of Elmore, currently in the top four of the Toolstation First Division, along with former Watchet players Aaron Deeks and Jamie Milton who are now with the Tiverton based side. "The Eagles" are understood to be showing an interest in Minehead players Lee Smyth, Mike Mullen and Chris Yeates, though at this stage MAFC have not received any official approach. 18th November 2011 CONNOR SIDLEY-ADAMS TO GRACE LILLESHALL Teenage goalkeeper Connor Sidley-Adams has been chosen to attend England U18 trials during an intense weekend of activities from 2nd to 4th of December at Lilleshall. Connor has progressed through to this stage having impressed in earlier trials. Four seasons ago striker Micky Burns was at the same stage in the national trials process when he was badly injured at Larkhall playing for the blues - an injury he is yet to fully recover from having only played a hand full of serious matches since. Former Minehead favourite Gareth Morgan, whose goalscoring feats in two different spells with the club were a significant part of the clubs' two Western League First Division championship winning sides in the early and the late 1990's, also experienced life at the FA facilities at Lilleshall. He went on to represent the full England Schoolboy XI on several occasions. 29th October 2011 ANOTHER BLUES DUO PICKED FOR SOMERSET Hot on the heels of senior players Mike Mullen and Matt Cracknell being picked to represent the county, Minehead teenagers Jack Page and Connor Sidley-Adams have been included in the Somerset U18 squad to play against Devon in the FA Youth Cup at Newton Abbot on Saturday 12th November. Goalkeeper Sidley-Adams is also featuring in England Youth Representative XI games. 21st October 2011 MAFC Leisure Range Launched Minehead AFC’s first ever Leisure Range was launched this week, including the popular BeaverFord Players’ tops which are now available as Replica Shirts. We have had so many people comment on how good the shirts look and numerous requests for replica shirts so we decided to take the plunge. The Replica Shirts, as seen modelled by BeaverFord personnel, start at £24 with adult sizes being £30 each. The leisure range also includes Hoodies, V-Neck Sweaters, two different styles of Polo Shirts, and both long and short sleeved cotton shirts available in pale and dark blue. The clothing items, which naturally make great Christmas presents, are part of the clubs’ “Building a Blue Community” campaign. Further details on Club Shop pages 21st October 2011 BeaverFord become MAFC Kit Sponsors for 2011-12 Minehead AFC are thrilled to announce the ongoing Kit Sponsorship provided by BeaverFord of Brunel Way, Minehead. This season, the popular blue shirts will be worn by not just the First XI but also the Reserve Team and the Under 18s. Team photo and full artice here We are very fortunate that businesses in the locality are looking for partnerships with us through sponsorship and advertising. Our outlook has changed in recent years and we really work hard to promote sponsors in every way that we can, commented club chairman Brian Walder. It is no longer just a case of us going out with the begging bowl, we offer many different options which suit a large range of marketing budgets and this year have produced a 12 page colour brochure detailing how we can help promote local businesses. Further details are available or by contacting Brian Walder on 01643 706850. 1st October 2011 It was with immense sadness that Minehead AFC learnt this morning of the passing overnight of probably their greatest ever talisman Mr Tony Milton, who had battled with Parkinsons Disease for many years. Full story here 20th September 2011 LONG STANDING RIVALRY TO BE RENEWED Minehead AFC travel to Falmouth this week to renew a long standing cup rivalry with a cornish side who also have an impressive history in FA competitions. This particular meeting at Bickland Park, is in the 2nd Qualifying Round of the FA Vase. 7th September 2011 Minehead AFC are proud to announce that this season they will be in partnership with The objective is to create a society where children and young people are valued, respected and happy. The Children’s Society’s Regional Retail Manager for the South West Val Newbold said: “We are really pleased that Minehead AFC has teamed up with us to help promote the charity and raise funds for local projects. MAFC Chairman Brian Walder commented “We strive to make ourselves as accessible to this sort of partnership as possible, and this particularly helps us to contribute towards the well-being of youngsters. We very much view the youth of the area as being the lifeblood of our town’s football club for the future”. More info inc Team Photo on Sponsorship Pages 3rd September 2011 Minehead have swooped this week to sign two goalkeepers as cover for goalkeeper Chris Meredith. Sam Hutchings, a highly rated goalkeeper who has previously had several spells at his home town club, is currently on Bridgwater Town’s books, and Taunton Town’s Connor Sidley-Adams who lives in Minehead, have both signed Somerset County League forms for the club. Meredith, who misses today’s match at Bishops Lydeard due to a one match suspension, works until one on alternate Saturdays and this caused him to miss a handful of away games last season. 24th August 2011 This evening Minehead face Bristol side St George Easton in Gordano, who finished last season two league positions below the blues in 13th place, after Minehead did the double over them winning 2-0 at home and 2-1 away. Minehead's management team of Robbie Hopkins and Paul Newbold will be looking for their side to kick start the season with a win this evening. Guy Burns is still suspended until after the Bishops Lydeard away fixture on 3rd September (Minehead's next game) but experienced player Lee Todd returns to the squad along with both Stefan and Nick Phillips, who were all unavailable for the trip to Langford Rovers 2000 last Saturday. 17th August 2011 Minehead face their first away trip tomorrow (Saturday) when they visit Langford Rovers 2000 in Weston, who like Ashton and Backwell United beat Minehead twice last season. On Wednesday however they return to The Recreation Ground to face St George Easton in Gordano, who Minehead completed a league double over last season. Kick off for the floodlit match on Wednesday is at 7.45pm. Chairman Brian Walder commented "Every match should be seen as an opportunity to improve and we have two big opportunities on Saturday and then Wednesday. A new season always brings a build up of expectations, so to lose the opening game is a blow, but 99 points are still out there to be won and after Saturday’s results we are only three points behind the leaders". 12th August 2011 EXTRACT FROM MATCHDAY CHRONICLE (ASHTON & BACKWELL UTD - OPENING LEAGUE MATCH 2011/12) Hi Everyone –
Our long term tussle with Minehead Town Council, for which we must accept some of the blame, has recently taken a very different twist. We now look forward to the signing of a new lease in the coming weeks. Whilst on the subject I must applaud the work that all members of the “Academy” committee have put in during recent months, the result of which is that we are definitely moving swiftly in the right direction regarding the clubhouse. For those of you who are not aware, the Academy committee is made up of three appointed members from both Minehead AFC (MAFC) and Minehead Youth Football Club (MYFC). The Academy will hold the lease of the premises and therefore needs to create revenue streams that will fund all expenses incurred at the ground. In every season to date, the Academy has needed funds from both MAFC and MYFC, but it is the body’s objective to generate enough money to become self sufficient and in time no longer a drain on either MAFC or MYFC. By doing this it will be securing the future of football at the Recreation Ground. The main Academy income is currently brought in through the bar at First XI home matches, along with the takings from selling refreshments. Hopefully we will be able to attract other revenue streams throughout the course of the season. This income will however, need to be greatly increased against last year’s levels. To enable the Academy to become self sufficient, we must utilise the facilities and generate more trade. This season we intend opening the bar not only for First XI matches but also Reserve team games. We also intend opening the tea bar (now within the old skittle alley) and to also sell a wider range of snacks to supporters including hot food. This also opens up the opportunity of providing hot food to both sets of players after matches which in turn adds to the usage of the bar. Hopefully we can also attract other local sides to come back to our club after their own matches. The club used to be the focal point for all footballers in the area and there is no reason why it shouldn’t become that busy again during the early evening period on Saturdays. Having been successful in asking for help for our opening matches, we now need to ask not only the same people who have kindly helped so far, but also for others to become involved. The two main barriers when asking for voluntary help are not that people are not prepared to help, but that they are not able to commit to every match and also that they also don’t want to take on too much responsibility. I am happy to take responsibility of purchasing the stock for both the club bar and the tea bar. I will also take responsibility for opening up on home first team match days, and also locking up the premises when the bar closes. As treasurer I will also deal with all tills and floats. In general, all any helpers will be asked to do is to arrive about half an hour before the kick off and “work” until about half to three quarters of an hour after the match finishes. This would be approximately a three hour “shift”. If enough people come forward to offer help, it will not mean committing to every match – far from it. It is vitally important that nobody over commits and ends up feeling put upon. The only aspects of “responsibility” that I ask a few people to commit to, are the opening and closing of the premises at reserve team matches ( I am normally away with the First XI when the reserves play at home), and I would dearly love someone to come forward to be in control of rostas, which will be an integral part of the operation. I am happy to setup an area within the website where people can see a diary containing all matches, where names can be entered against matches and anyone can see who else is helping, or when we are struggling for help. An email reminder can also be generated at a set number of days before the chosen matches if this helps. We therefore now need as many people as possible to help us make the club successful. I estimate that four people could comfortably do each home First XI match, and two would manage a reserve match between them. If you feel you can help, or know somebody who would want to, please get in touch. Thanks for reading all this, apologies for it’s length! For the club’s sake I hope my plea has the desired effect. Brian Walder - Chairman 26th July 2011 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (WSFP) I would like to take the opportunity of thanking all supporters who turned up and helped so much in making last Sunday evening's Help for Heroes charity football match between Tescos and Morrisons such a really good match. It proved to be not only an event worth watching but also very much an event worth supporting.
We hope to see you soon. Brian Walder 26th July 2011 ANOTHER BUSY WEEKEND AT THE REC Minehead played the second of their pre-season friendlies on Saturday when a young Tiverton Reserve side were the visitors. As with the majority of these games it gave both sets of managers the opportunity to experiment with some new faces and formations, and to coin one of football’s greatest clichés this was a very useful workout. Minehead won the match due to two well taken goals scored by Richie Binding, a Porlock player trying to break through at the higher level, though Tiverton did pull a goal back in the dying seconds after a penalty had been awarded by the referee.
17th July 2011 WORCESTER CITY COMING TO TOWN Hot on the heels of Minehead AFC announcing three high profile pre-season friendlies against teams from higher divisions comes the news that Blue Square North club Worcester City are coming to town on Saturday 30th July for a 3pm kick off. Worcester are no strangers to Irnham Road, having faced Minehead in the Southern League Premier Division in the 1977/78 season when they were convincingly beaten 3-0 by The Blues, having shared the points in a 0-0 draw at Worcester. Four exciting cup games then followed, firstly in January 1981 when Worcester won at Minehead 3-1 in an FA Trophy tie, then the following season the rivalry continued when the clubs clashed in both the 4th Qualifying Round of the FA Cup (which saw Minehead win at Irnham Road 1-0) and a few months later in the FA Trophy 1st Round Proper with Worcester gaining revenge by recording a 5-2 home replay win after a 1-1 draw at Minehead. Worcester’s record home attendance is a huge 17,042 supporters who turned up for an FA Cup 4th Round tie against Sheffield United in the late 1950’s. The tie was City’s reward for having knocked out Liverpool in the previous round. Minehead are hoping the friendly match against such renowned opposition will attract the biggest crowd seen at the Rec for many years. The match has come about due to a work connection between Youth Section Chairman Mat Thresher and Worcester City’s Assistant Manager Matt Gardiner. 28th June 2011 PRE SEASON ACTION AT MINEHEAD Minehead AFC have announced three pre-season friendlies against teams currently playing considerably higher in the football pyramid, meaning a vastly different approach to the preparation in recent seasons. Instead of easing themselves back into action with low key matches against theoretically inferior teams, this season the blues will take on Southern League neighbours Bridgwater Town (Tuesday 26th July) and Taunton Town (Tuesday 2nd August). The string of home friendlies kicks off with the visit of Wellington on Tuesday 19th July. All matches kick off at 7.45pm. Club Chairman Brian Walder commented “You don’t improve yourselves by playing against teams from a lower standard so this year we are pleased to have attracted a far higher calibre of opponent to Irnham Road. We learned a lot about ourselves and the standard of the county league last season. This year we are looking to improve considerably on last season’s mid table finish, and are targeting a top six position. Minehead have again entered the FA Vase for the 2011-12 season, and expect their fixtures for the Somerset County League to be announced around mid July, with the opening league match scheduled for Saturday August 13th. The club also hopes to announce shortly the visit of even grander opposition who currently play in the Blue Square Conference North. Should this coup materialise it will renew a rivalry which started when both clubs were at the pinnacle of non league football in the late 1970’s. As well as the two league clashes in 77/78, the clubs were then embroiled in four outstanding cup matches in the FA Cup and FA Trophy in 1981 and 1982. Pre-season training for both the First XI and Reserve team, commences next Tuesday at The Recreation Ground at 6.30pm STORE WARS to be held at Minehead Superstore giants Tesco and Morrisons will lock horns on Sunday July 24th when staff from both stores will compete against each other at Minehead Football Club’s Irnham Road ground in the first of what is hoped to become an annual charity fund raising event. The grudge match is the brain-child of Karen Sudron, a regular campaigner for Help for Heroes, who works at Tesco’s in Minehead. “Minehead Football Club seemed the logical people to host the event, and I’m really thrilled at how pro-active they are being in helping me organise things” said Karen. 21st June 2011 THREE APPOINTMENTS AT MINEHEAD Minehead AFC have made sweeping appointments this week to their Reserve XI’s management. Mark Keal, a former First XI player becomes Manager, Phillip Graddon his assistant and Paul Harrison has been appointed as coach. All three have strong links with Minehead’s successful youth section. Messrs Keal and Graddon will continue a partnership which has seen them move up annually through the age groups from U8’s through to U16’s. Paul Harrison was part of last season’s U15’s and the age-group progression will also see him continue to be involved in next season’s Under 16s. Whilst the reserve eleven were relegated to Division 3 after a poor 2010-11 season, the management team have the initial target of achieving a position in Division 1 of the Taunton & District Saturday League in two steps. The long term objective is to be playing in the Somerset County League within four years time. The club is also very keen to pursue it’s ambitions to have an U18 team and hope to be in the South West Floodlit league for the 2012-13 season. Friendlies will be staged during 2011-12 prior to an application to become part of the league the following season. 28th MAY 2011 TESCO’s TAKE ON MORRISON’s - (BUT CHARITY WILL BE THE WINNER) A football match between the workforces of Minehead’s two major stores is the brainchild of regular Help for Heroes supporter Karen Sudron, a Tesco employee. Karen approached Minehead Football Club, who immediately agreed to host the match, which will be played at The Recreation Ground on Sunday 26th July, kicking off at 6pm. 17th MAY 2011 MINEHEAD RESERVES LOOK FOR NEW MANAGER The clubs’ 2010-11 Presentation Evening is being held this Friday at their Irnham Road clubhouse at 7:00pm for 7.30, and any supporters wishing to attend are welcome. 25th APRIL 2011 GET ONBOARD THE BLUES TRAIN TO WATCHET Minehead AFC are once again planning to travel to their Bank Holiday local derby fixture at Watchet on Easter Monday by steam train, thanks to the kind support of the West Somerset Railway. Supporters will be able to travel with the players and officials, on “The Blues Train” which leaves Minehead station at 10.15am. Tickets are available, through club officials, online at www.mineheadafc.co.uk or from Club Chairman Brian Walder on 01643 706850. Thanks to WSR, special advance ticket prices are £5 per adult, £2.50 per child with youth team players invited to travel for free. WSR have been extremely helpful in making this possible by reserving carriages for our exclusive use, and we are indebted to them. I can’t personally believe that even though I live within a few hundred yards of the station, that I’ve never yet taken advantage of one of the area’s biggest crowd pullers. This gives us all a wonderful way to enjoy an immense local steam train attraction, and take in the big match the same day. I wonder how many football supporters will be travelling to a local derby by chartered steam train this Easter? 18th February 2011 IF ANY EXTRA INCENTIVE WAS NEEDED…… Though the intense rivalry between the camps naturally gives both sets of players all the incentive they need to win Saturday’s 3rd Round Somerset Senior Cup match, Minehead and Watchet learned today that the winners will play in the last 16 in the Channel Islands against Vale Recreation, who have already knocked out teams from Taunton and Bridgwater. 7th February 2011 PRE-MATCH ENTERTAINMENT AT THE REC Minehead Football Club are hoping roadworks at Carhampton will not adversely affect the attendance for the much publicised County Cup tie against local rivals Watchet next Wednesday evening (16th). With the main road being closed from 6.30 to 11.30pm, anyone travelling to the match from east of Carhampton will either need to arrive early or to follow diversion signs through Raleghs Cross and Wheddon Cross. Pre match entertainment commences at 6pm with an Under 12 match between Minehead and Watchet youngsters, and all facilities at the ground will open early. Kick off for the main match is 7.45pm, and extra time and penalties will be used if necessary to find a quarter finalist.
25th January 2011 DERBY CUP TIE NOW UNDER LIGHTS Minehead and Watchet Town heard this week that their 3rd Round County Cup tie will be played under floodlights at Irnham Road on Wednesday 16th February. Somerset FA, who normally stipulate that Senior Cup matches are played on Saturdays, have agreed to the requests that the game is played on a Wednesday evening, to swell the attendance for what promises to be a mouth-watering event. Minehead chairman Brian Walder commented “It will now create a great atmosphere under lights, and could double the attendance with people who normally play in or attend other local matches on a Saturday being able to come along and watch a rare local derby”. Minehead enjoyed their biggest home attendance for many years when 485 turned up for the Watchet game on the first Saturday of the season, a game which Minehead won 3-0. The winners of the tie will be away to either Vale Recreation (Guernsey) or Bridgwater Town Reserves in the quarter final. To avoid a potential fixture backlog, a total of five of Minehead’s nine remaining home fixtures have been scheduled as floodlit matches. “The floodlights are going to be a godsend this season, and we look forward to some great evening matches when locals can hopefully witness us getting as high up the County League as our much improved form will take us” added Mr Walder.
26th December 2010 BANK HOLIDAY MATCH POSTPONED Despite the concerted efforts of no fewer than 27 of the Watchet faithful who turned out on a freezing Boxing Day morning to clear the snow from the pitch, it was unfortunately established that the pitch was frozen solid underneath the snow and the long awaited return match was called off for safety reasons. Having checked a small area of the pitch by clearing away snow the morning after it had fallen, it had been decided to leave clearing the snow until the morning before the match (today). A week of sub zero temperatures had taken it’s toll on the playing surface and regrettably the Watchet ground staff were forced to call off the match earlier today. It is hoped, though not yet confirmed, that the match can be re-arranged for Easter Monday – another Bank Holiday when other local teams will not be playing, meaning the local footballing fraternity can witness the area’s two senior teams slugging it out. Minehead AFC would like to take the opportunity to thank West Somerset Railway for their kind assistance in making “The Blues Train” a possibility, but on this occasion everyone has come off second best. 18th December 2010 GET ONBOARD THE BLUES TRAIN TO WATCHET Following a suggestion made by a supporter, Minehead’s players, officials and supporters have a unique opportunity of travelling to their Bank Holiday fixture at Watchet on the West Somerset Railway by steam train (12.30 kick off). We all thought it was a great idea commented club Chairman Brian Walder, and it has appealed to supporters and their families for a special Christmas day out. WSR have been extremely helpful in making this possible by reserving carriages for our exclusive use, and we are indebted to them. I can’t personally believe that even though I live within a few hundred yards of the station, that I’ve never yet taken advantage of one of the area’s biggest crowd pullers. This gives us all a wonderful way to enjoy an immense local steam train attraction, and take in the big match the same day. I wonder how many football supporters will be travelling to a local derby by chartered steam train this xmas? No better way to spend the bank holiday in my book! Watchet are also doing their bit by providing an Irish band for after the match entertainment. Return tickets @ £5 for adults and £2.50 for children are available from a number of MAFC committee members, or through brian.walder@mineheadafc.co.uk or by telephoning 01643 706850.
13th August 2010 MINEHEAD EXPECTING BIG CROWD FOR LOCAL DERBY Minehead and Watchet’s football seasons kick off tomorrow (Saturday), when the two sides clash at Minehead’s Irnham Road ground in their first league derby together since the 1938/39 season. The club are preparing for what is likely to be their biggest crowd since the visit of top non-league side Woking for an FA Cup 3rd Qualifying Round tie in October 1998, when in excess of 1200 supporters were in attendance.
1st August 2010 VOLUNTEERS WANTED! Minehead AFC are looking for a referee’s assistant (linesman) to become part of the club’s entourage for the new 2010-11 season. Though the Somerset Senior League aim to provide three officials for the majority of Premier Division matches, according to other clubs this is regularly not the case, with both home and away clubs often needing to provide a linesman each. The club would very much like to hear from anyone prepared to commit to the coming season, and would be prepared to assist with any qualification costs if necessary. Also being sought is a bar person to take charge of their bottle bar which is open at all home matches, as well as any persons who would like to help operate the tea hut on match days. Interested parties are urged to contact General Secretary John Batt via email at john.batt@mineheadafc.co.uk 26th July 2010 West Somerset’s top two football teams come face to face in a league fixture for the first time in over 70 years when the Errea Somerset County League Premier Division kicks off on Saturday 14th August. Discounting a 6-team junior league competition after WWII had ceased in 45/6, the last senior league meeting was aptly in the Somerset Senior League back in 1938. 10th July 2010 BLUES LOOKING TO LOCALS Minehead AFC have been pleased with the numbers turning out for pre-season training on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at The Recreation Ground. 21st June 2010 Minehead AFC begin their pre-season training on Thursday 1st July at Irnham Road. Manager Robbie Hopkins who starts his first full season in charge of the blues has appointed Paul Newbold as his assistant, with Micky Armitage also rejoining the club to join Dave Burr as Reserve XI joint manager. 19th March 2010 Porlock lift Rowbarton Charity Cup The final of The Rowbarton Charity Cup match was held at Minehead Football Ground on Tuesday 9th March. The finalists, Alcombe and Porlock played an exciting game in front of a big crowd. Porlock had one disallowed goal and about two minutes from the final whistle the Alcombe nearly scored, but the Porlock goal keeper, Dave Sowden, made an unbelievable save which prevented the match going into extra time. Porlock were the winners with one goal, headed by Gary Bennett. Man of the match was Mathew Hayward from Porlock, who was chosen by Nick Wadham from Taverners. A spokesman for the organisers said: “The final proved to be a very exciting match and very well attended by supporters of both sides.” The cups and trophies to the players, referee and linesmen were presented by Trish Hill from Minehead Football Club. Tony Good from the Rowbarton Charity Cup committee thanked everyone for their support and to Minehead Football Club for the use of their ground and the excellent welcome that had been given. Alcombe: Daniel Pawson; Darren Sherring; Luke Fullbrook; Sam Pershouse; Matt Sully; Gareth John; Luke Bloys; Ryan Cody-Boucher; Chris Newbold; Ross Addicott; Richard Bailey; Mickey Burns; Greg Yeates; Andrew Land; Chris Duffy; Sam Armitage; Patrick Reed; Jason Hill; Chris Jackson; Brian Buggy. Managers: Jason Hill/ Paul Newbold. Porlock: Greg Howard; Dave Sowden; Steve Arnold; Andrew Woodward; Matthew Heywood; Devin Ackland; Leigh Knowles; Dom Heally; Rich Binding; Adam Sparks; Jack Page; Matt Drakely; Wez Pooley; Harry Scatchard; Matt Knowles; Gary Bennet; Danny Wilson; Lee Hardick; Luke Freeman; Zoltan Juhasz. Managers: Steve Arnold/Paul Swallow. About The Taunton Plumbing & Heating Rowbarton Charity Cup The Rowbarton Charity Cup is a knock out tournament and all clubs in the Taunton & district Saturday League are eligible for entry. 5th March 2010 Parkinson’s Charity nets £250 after Quiz Night @ Mambo in Minehead Members of the local Parkinson’s disease charity were delighted when local organisers Peter and Angela Veevers were presented with a cheque for £250. The money was won as a prize draw by Parkinson’s sufferer Bill Hadley in a quiz night organised by Minehead Football Club and held at Mambo in Minehead. From a very early age Bill has supported Minehead Football Club and since his retirement from Gliddons @ Williton three years ago he has given up much of his time to the club. He also has a keen interest in West Somerset Railway and is a volunteer at Crowcombe station. Brian Walder, Chairman of Minehead Football Club said: “We were delighted when Bill’s team won the prize draw on the Quiz Night. Bill is an invaluable member of our small team of volunteers. Despite his illness he works very hard on behalf of the club.” Bill said: “The charity, run locally by Peter and Angela gives people like me a chance to deal with this condition. I’m very glad this money will be going towards research into this disease.” December 2009 NEW MANAGER APPOINTED AT MINEHEAD Minehead AFC have appointed former player Robbie Hopkins as their new manager and he takes charge for today’s visit to Chard Town. Caretaker Manager Craig Carr, who has been in charge since the club’s Bristol connection ended in mid November, will remain at the club as Coach. Robbie is looking to bring stability to the club where his playing career started over twenty years ago, and club members feel he is a very popular choice. 9th November 2009 BRISTOL A BRIDGE TOO FAR
9th November 2009 West Somerset’s football fans have a big opportunity to get behind Bristol’s bid to become a host venue for the 2018 World Cup next Tuesday when a 4 metre football will take centre stage at a an exhibition match at The Recreation Ground. “We are really fortunate that the organisers have agreed to come to Minehead and West Somerset has a great chance to show their support commented community website owner Clara Lawrie.” 20th October 2009 U18’s TO FACE GLOUCESTER CITY
5th August 2009 MINEHEAD’s SEASON KICKS OFF AT HOME Minehead AFC’s eagerly awaited Toolstation League campaign kicks off tomorrow when the powerful Keynsham Town provide stiff opposition at Irnham Road for the opening match. New management duo of Gary Hillard and Robert Boyd have been moulding their team based on the best of the local players and a selection of youngsters from Bristol to bolster the side. James Browning, last season’s Supporters’ and Players’ Player of the Season has impressed the duo enough to be chosen as this season’s Club Captain and Chris Kite, a 22 year old centre half who has experience at Bristol Rovers, will be team captain. Other new faces to look out for are midfielders Will Gregory (19) and Sean Minall (20) along with striker Simon Bone (20) who are all proven Western League players who have worked with the joint managers before. Andrew Gubb, Andy Hall, Chris Yeates, Craig Carr, Lee Todd, Guy Burns, Luke Webber, Matt Cracknell and Mike Mullen have all shown up well in training and are pressing for positions in the side. Minehead based goalkeeper Sam Hutchings impressed so much in the friendly at Bridgwater a fortnight ago, that he has been snapped up by the Zamaretto (Southern League) side. As replacement 20 year old Ashley Bryan takes his place between the sticks, another player who has learnt his trade at Bristol Rovers. The final pre-season friendly was played on Tuesday at Taunton, and saw many players nursing injuries which puts some doubt over the exact line up for Saturday’s match. Mr Ken Clarke, Secretary of the Toolstation League will be visiting the ground on Saturday, and will make the draw for the new Sponsors’ Raffle. All three winners will receive good exposure for their businesses in the form of ancillary advertising on the players’ Tracksuits, and kit. Minehead’s first away match is the following Tuesday (11th) when they travel to the Dorset coast to play Bridport. The club bar will be open for all home matches this season.
31st July 2009 Minehead AFC are pleased to announce a brand new partnership with popular west country chain Mambo, who have agreed to become Main Sponsors for the coming season. “Last season we failed to find a suitable sponsor but and we are naturally thrilled that we have been able to reach this new arrangement” commented football club Chairman Brian Walder. Mambo, who also have strong partnership links with both Exeter City and Torquay United, will amongst other benefits see their name appear on the front of the First XI, Reserves and Under 18 shirts. Minehead will be holding numerous sporting events at the venue throughout the winter, and are pleased to show their reciprocal commitment to Mambo and all other sponsors. “We are very conscious that partnerships such as this should not be looked upon as merely a donation, and that we are just as committed to our sponsors as they are to us. The underlying feeling is that this is a partnership, added Mr Walder” 24th June 2009 PRE-SEASON TRAINING STARTS ON SATURDAY! Minehead Football Club’s players will be reporting at the club for training this Saturday, eager to impress the new management duo of Robert Boyd and Gary Hillard who took over at the helm last month. The opening session will start at the ground at 11am, finishing on the seafront around 1pm. 23rd June 2009 Minehead AFC have appointed former player- manager Bob Boyd as their new Director of Football. The news comes hot on the heels of the recent appointments of new management duo Gary Hillard (Manager) and Bob’s son Robert Boyd (Coach). “It is important that the position is made very clear” commented Chairman Brian Walder. The appointment in no way, shape or form undermines either Gary’s or Robert’s position. Playing side decisions remain 100% their domain. Though given a grand title, Bob will be looked upon as a figurehead and it is really out of politeness and a desire to make him feel welcome at the club if he decides to come to the odd match. He has kept in close contact with us since the 70’s, and has often been seen at our matches in the Bristol area. He has remained heavily involved in football and has made strong connections at both Bristol City and Bristol Rovers. At the end of last season Bob retired from his coaching position at Bristol Rovers’ School of Excellence, and was going to be at a loose end on Saturday afternoons. This seemed like a very natural and obvious choice to us. Without Bob we would not have been able to appoint Gary and Robert. There is absolutely no pressure on him, and there are no obligations or levels of commitment attached. Both Gary, who has worked alongside Bob before, and Robert, who knows Bob as well as anyone does, have been thoroughly consulted, and are both pleased that his connection with the club has been formalised. |
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