Worcester Raiders

Darlaston Town (1874) F.C.
vs
Worcester Raiders F.C.
West Midlands (Regional) League
Premier Division
Saturday 19th October 2019 Programme £1.00

Chairman:
Darlaston Town (1874) F.C.
Club Directory
Neil Chambers
Tel: 07976 752698
Vice Chairman:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
Garry Hale
Tel: 07791139288
Gil Preece
Tel: 07593281513
Bob Jones
Club Directors: Neil Chambers Keith Chambers
Rose Burley Bob Jones
General Commiee: Neil Chambers Garry Hale Bob Jones
Gil Preece Anton Allen Keith Chambers
Rose Burley George Hancocks Gavin Ingles
Craig Wilkinson
First Team Manager:
First Team Coaches:
Sports Therapist:
Andy Parkes
Ant Follows & Nick Lewis
Mike Howe
Trainee Sports Therapist: Aimee Clemson
Club Photographer:
Ground Address:
Jayne Cartwright Coven Photography
The Paycare Ground
Bentley Leisure Pavilion
Bentley Road North
WALSALL
WS2 0EA
Telephone: 01922 616165
Email: general@darlastontown1874fc.com
Website: www.darlastontown1874fc.com
Programme printed by Tom Giles & Co, OLDBURY. Prog. No 46 2

News & Views
from the
Boardroom
Today we welcome the players, management and officials of last
seasonʼs Division One Champions Worcester Raiders. Like ourselves
Raiders have acclimatised well to life in the Premier Division and we
know another difficult game is in prospect. Win lose or draw their
players and officials are welcome to join us for half time and post
match hospitality.
The quirk of football fixtures means that today is the first of 4
consecutive home league games, interspersed of course with the
official opening of the floodlights by a Walsall FC XI on Tuesday 5
November. Tickets are now on sale for that game and I would ask
everyone to purchase their tickets early.
We are now one third through the season and I thought I would reflect
on our season to date. We are one of a few clubs without a playing
budget so pre-season was difficult with several of our players
rejecting big money from other clubs. The signings of Connor Fellows,
Liam Smith, Zico Agyemang, Romano Graham, Reis Nadat has
improved our strength in depth, the recent addition of the experienced
Scott Stevenson has added extra quality in midfield and the squad
continues to get better and stronger.
After a very good away point at Pershore on the opening day of the
season there is no question that the Shifnal loss taught us a
very harsh lesson in this Division. Whilst we were poor that day
3

Shifnal were clinical and their results since then have shown that they
are early title favourites. Other than that game we have been very
competitive in the other 10 games and in our other defeats at
Wolverhampton Casuals and Bridgnorth we could easily have got
something from both games.
With 18 points from 11 games we have shown we can compete at this
level. With the floodlights up and a planning application made for
additional stands and security fencing together with home
attendances averaging 161 making us one of the best supported
teams in the Division we are delighted with progress on and off the
field.
4

5

6

View from the Dugout
Good afternoon and welcome
back to the Paycare Ground,
we've played three games since
my team and I last wrote any
programme notes. The games at
this time of the season come thick
and fast and we have picked up
three good results in this period
so myself and my team are very
pleased with the squad’s progress
and results at present.
The first of the three games was
against high flying unbeaten
Bewdley Town. We knew this was
always going to be a very difficult
game coupled with being one of
the favourites to finish in the top
four come the end of the season.
Coming into the game they had
won the opening seven games of
the season, putting them in second spot behind Shifnal.
As always, we go into every game with a plan, the lads had trained well in
the week coming up to the game and we felt good in the camp and
confident after our disciplined display the week before at Black Country
Rangers.
In talking to the players we stressed the importance of setting the tempo
in the game and not letting Bewdley settle early doors has they possessed
a very dangerous front three that had been scoring for fun, so starting
well was key.
We made a bright start to the game in a real tenacious manner, so to go
1-0 down was a blow. But again, not for the first time this season
7

the boys showed desire to get back on level terms as quickly as possible.
Top Scorer Leon Taylor who put us on level terms, and then put us in the
lead with his second of the game. With almost the final kick of the game
our new signing experienced midfielder Scott Stephenson scored the edge
of the box. To win against a previously unbeaten Bewdley Town was some
achievement and we couldn't have been prouder of the lads.
Last Saturday we travelled to bottom club Cradley Town who were sitting
at the bottom of the table, before kick-off was again going to be as tough
a test as the Bewdley game. After their manager resigned during the week
prior to the game we knew they would be looking to impress the new
Interim Boss. I keep saying to everyone that will listen no game in this
division is easy.
The pitch conditions on the day were not the greatest, so we expected it
to be a leveller as we would not be able to play our usual passing game.
So again, at the end of the game to come away with another 3 points on
the board winning 2-1 with goals from Lucas Hough and a quality finish
from Zico Agyemang. It was a pleasant journey home. We always look for
the positives out of every game we play, last Saturday I was really pleased
with our discipline and game management in what was a very tricky game.
Cradley played well on the day, but the lads stuck together and got the
job done!
Moving into the third and final game, Tuesday evening’s J.W. Hunt Cup
game against Walsall Town Swifts our first competitive game under lights.
Firstly, I must thank Chairman Neil and his committee for all their hard
work in getting the lights erected and power supply installed so quickly
and problem free. What a great occasion especially to see another large
gate of 173 of the Darlo faithful on a cold night coming to support the
team was tremendous, the lads again appreciate your support as do I and
my management team. You really played your part in the win cheering and
pushing the lads on.
Going 1-0 down was disappointing on the night we didn't start well by
any imagination, and a defensive error gifted them the lead.
At half time we spoke about getting an early goal and settling back into
the game, we didn't do either and on the 54th minute Dante Taylor struck
8

again for Walsall putting then 2-0 up. As they say football is a strange
game despite being behind, we had all the ball but didn't look like
scoring. With 20 minutes remaining after a few discussions with Ant &
Nick, I decided we had to go for it and bring on some of the lads we had
looked to give a rest too.
Before Leon and Lucas came on, they were told go and effect the game
for us, what followed was just brilliant, a goal to get us back in the game
from Lucas. and Leon's second of his two to win the game in the 90th
minute was breath taking and what football is all about. Don’t get me
wrong a solid 2-0 win would have been the plan, but what a way to win a
game, this is where you the supporters come in and drive us on, the
support at times was deafening in the final 10 minutes of the game.
I must mention Walsall Town Swifts who played really well on the evening
and would be smarting a little as they had done so well for 65 minutes
and would have felt they should have got something out the game.
Another three games played and another three wins, all different types of
games too. I have said and keep saying we are not getting carried away
with the start we have had whilst we are enjoying a good period at the
moment things can change very quickly. We need to be focussed, keep our
concentration, be grounded and keep working hard to improve game on
game.
Today we welcome Worcester Raiders who last year pipped us to the post
to be crowned champions, I'd like to take this opportunity to congratulate
them on their achievement last season we had two very competitive
games against each other and they nipped us to the title by a point.
Raiders have also started life in the Premier Division really well and are
sitting in the top 5. Both sides have added strength to the squad this
season, but we both know each other well and again we are expecting
another tough game today!
I hope you all enjoy the game and hope to see you in the bar after the
game!
The Gaffa!
9

10

Darlaston Town (1874) 3
Hough 77 L. Taylor 83, 87
Walsall Town Swifts 2
D. Taylor 15, 54
After progressing to the quarter final stage in last seasons J W Hunt Cup,
last night Darlaston progressed to Round 2 of the J W Hunt Cup with a
hard earned win against an impressive Walsall Town Swifts.
With Ryan Jones, Daniel Bolzon and Liam Smith all unavailable and Lucas
Hough, Sam Causton and Leon Taylor all relegated to the substitutes
bench a disjointed Darlaston performance finally edged passed Swifts
with 3 goals in the final 13 minutes.
Early chances in the first half fell to Darlaston’s Stevenson, Agyemang,
Glasby and Romano Graham whilst Kieron Northwood had an early
chance for the visitors.
Swifts forward line was littered with Midland League Premier
Division quality with former Chasetown striker Craig Bannister
impressing alongside Dante Taylor whilst former AFC Wulfs and 11

Sporting Khalsa striker
Kieron Northwood and ex
Heather St John and
Khalsa forward Simeon
Townsend making the
attacking four a forward
line that would grace
most Premier Division
teams.
A mistake by Scott
Glasby on 15 minutes
allowed Townsend to get
beyond the home
defence, his snap shot
was parried by home
keeper Liam Whittaker, Dante Taylor
finish giving the visitors the lead.
was first to respond his 6 yard
Five minutes later Luke Charlton thought he had netted the equaliser
with his first goal of the season. Charlton burst through the visitors
defence into the penalty area, rounded keeper Gavin Ellis and from an
acute angle his goal bound shot was superbly cleared off the line by
defender Matty Bestall with a last ditch clearance.
The game turned into a scrappy midfield battle with Swifts having the
edge as the home side could not gain any momentum as pass after pass
was over hit or went astray. Winwood and Strazzanti impressed for the
visitors picking up loose passes and setting up opportunities for Taylor to
show his pace and Bannister to show his quality with some excellent
touches and flicks.
Taylor hit the
outside of the
post, Bannister
brought out a
comfortable
save from
Whittaker and
Townsend shot
wide as the
visitors looked
to press home
their advantage
whilst Graham
and Stevenson
both shot high
over the bar
before on the
stroke
of half
12

time Graham again blazed over the bar when well placed.
A lack lustre and disjointed first half performance from the home side
did’nt not get any better in the opening stages of the second half. Dante
Taylor netted his and Swifts second goal on 54 minutes converting at
the near post following a Craig Bannister cross after a poor clearance by
the Darlaston defence.
Swifts continued to have the edge without ever dominating proceedings
as the home side continued to lack any quality and penetration, confined
to long range efforts and half chances.
Two substitutions along with a change in formation by Darlaston boss
Andy Parkes changed the course of the game. Leon Taylor replaced
Scott Glasby and Lucas Hough replaced Jamie Holder. The changes
immediately created an increased desire and goal threat as for the first
time in the game as Darlaston started to assert some pressure on the
visitors defence. Scott Stevenson (twice), Luke Charlton and Aiden
Blackham all shot high over the bar from distance whilst Leon Taylor's
72nd minute header went inches over the bar.
Darlaston were now showing tremendous character and the quality of
their play was a far cry from the opening 60 minutes, it was only a
matter of time before their renewed energy paid dividends. It was Lucas
Hough who got the all-important first goal for the home side netting his
second goal in two games on 77 minutes, a superbly placed power
header into the top right-hand corner giving keeper Ellis no
chance.
13

The goal not
only energised
Hough's team
mates but also
brought the
large home
contingent to
life and five
minutes later
Darlaston
were on level
terms with a
goal of the
highest
quality. The
impressive
Ricardo
Ricketts
played in a 25
-yard free kick to the feet of Taylor who swivelled on a sixpence to lose
his defender and in the blink of an eye unleashed an unstoppable low
drive with keeper Ellis rooted to the spot.
Darlaston were now on top, substitute Adam Cole header over and Zico
Agyemang brought a stunning diving save from keeper Ellis tipping his 8
-yard header over the bar on 88 minutes.
On 89 minutes Darlaston broke the hearts of a hardworking and
talented Swifts side with the winning goal.
Taylor again on target and Ricketts the provider. Stevenson's corner
was only partially cleared to Ricketts who crossed for Taylor to head
home his second goal of the game and 10th of the season. Swifts
midfielder Winwood was sin binned for dissent and deep into injury time
was shown the red card for further comments made to the Assistant
Referee and Referee.
Swifts will feel
harshly done by as
their performance in
the opening 60
minutes merited at
least a draw but the
fighting spirit and
extra quality and
desire of Darlaston in
the final 30 minutes
eventually secured a
second
round tie.
14

15

Cradley Town 1
Knight 71
Darlaston Town (1874) 2
Hough 11, Agyemang 59
On Non-League Day Darlaston travelled to Black Country
neighbours Cradley Town and emerged with all 3 points to take
them into third spot in the West Midlands Regional League Premier
Division.
After a slow start the inform Darlaston took the lead on 11
minutes from the penalty spot. Some sublime skill by Leon Taylor
saw him turn Luke Kettle and burst into the penalty area laying
the ball back to Zico Agyemang. Agyemang's 12-yard shot was
handled by Kai Knight. Lucas Hough stepped up to take the spot
kick, which was superbly parried away by keeper Adam Murusiak,
unfortunately for Murusiak the rebound fell to Hough who
made no mistake at the second attempt.
16

The goal should have given the visitors confidence, but the
difficult playing surface and conditions were not conducive to
Darlaston's slick passing style, the visitors finding it difficult to
assert.
Agyemang had a shot saved and Hough sent a 22-yard free kick
over the bar before on 23 minutes Hough was unlucky not to
double the advantage with a stunning 25-yard free kick which
rebounded off the cross bar before being cleared by the home
defence.
Both teams found life
difficult as passes
went regularly astray.
Kieran Day and
Daniel Danks were
impressing for
Cradley, but Scott
Glasby, Connor
Fellows and Ricardo
Ricketts were solid at
the heart of the
visitors defence,
keeper
Liam
Whittaker not
having a save
17

to make. day shot over the bar on 37 minutes, the only effort of
note in the first half.
For the remainder of the half neither side created a chance of any
note. The only close efforts were from the talented Cradley captain
Kieran Day,
whose two efforts
from distance
cleared the
Darlaston bar.
Darlaston doubled
their lead on 59
minutes. A Liam
Whittaker
clearance caused
havoc for the
home defence,
the tenacity and
pace of Agyemang
forced an error
from
the
impressive Kai Knight, the striker pounced on the error
and slid the ball beyond advancing keeper Marusiak from
18

12 yards Despite
their 2-goal
advantage the
visitors were still a
long way from their
best with both
defences on top and
chances few and far
between. For a spell
Cradley were the
livelier side with
Kieran Day and
Jordan Smart
having more of an
influence and with
the introduction of former Darlaston striker Adam Skeldon pace and
directness was injected into Cradley's attacking play.
Cradley's endeavour was rewarded with a goal on 71 minutes.
Agyemang conceded a needless free kick 30 yards out. Skeldon
whipped in a vicious free kick which was met by the head of Kai
Knight who planted his 6-yard header beyond Whittaker to halve
the arrears.
Skeldon shot wide on 77 minutes and for the visitors Taylor had a
goal disallowed for offside as defences continued to dominate. The
work rate and endeavour of both teams was impressive, but quality
was in short supply in a hard fought game played in good spirit.
The win takes
Darlaston into
third spot, and
whilst teams
around them
have games in
hand, with one
third of the
season gone and
just 3 defeats in
11 league
games, boss
Andy Parkes is
delighted with
how his team has
settled in the
higher Division. 19

Player & Management
Liam Whittaker Andy Heal Sam Causton Ricardo Ricketts
Sponsored by
Dominic Harvey
& family
Sponsored by
Stan Jackson
Sponsored by
Simon Hingley
Sponsored by
John Acton and
Roger Roberts
Scott Stevenson Aiden Blackham Reis Nadat
Sponsored by
Bob & Sue
Jones
Sponsored by
TG Property
Renovations
Sponsored by
George Hancocks
Adam Cole
Sponsored by
Stuart Hale &
Katie Price
Daniel Bolzon
Sponsored by
Dave Haskett &
Kelly Emery
Noah Diallo
Sponsored by
Dave Meakin
Andy Parkes
Sponsored by
Allan Dulleston
18

Sponsorships 2019-20
Scott Glasby Liam Smith Connor Follows Ryan Jones
Sponsored by
Pete Burke
Sponsored by
Andy Butler
Sponsored by
Rose Burley
Sponsored by
Pete and Alma
Davies
Luke Charlton Jamie Holder Lucas Hough
Liam Cox
Sponsored by
Anton Allen
Sponsored by
Christine Ceney
Sponsored by
Neil Chambers
Tyrone Clarke
Leon Taylor
Zico Agyemang
Romano Graham
Sponsored by
Leah Tranter
Sponsored by
Coven
Photography
Sponsored by
H Steventon
Sponsored by
Graham & Brian
Lloyd
Ant Follows Nick Lewis Mike Howe
Sponsored by
Scott Follows
& Jamie Green
Sponsored by
SMT Painters &
Decorators
Sponsored by
Matthew &
Redsell
Aimee Clemson
Sponsored by
Mark James
19

Darlaston Town (1874) 3
Taylor 20, 37, Stevenson 90+4
Bewdley Town 1
Hart 16
A crowd of 143 saw Darlaston extend their unbeaten run to 3 games and
move into fifth spot, their highest league position for more than 9 years.
In doing so they brought to a halt the 100% league record of Bewdley
Town who had won their opening 7 league games.
Manager Andy Parkes was without four first team regulars but those that
came in have given him a selection headache particularly Jamie Holder
and Ricardo Ricketts who were excellent in a fine all-round team
performance against a lively Bewdley Town.
The opening 15 minutes saw neither side land a blow of note as it was
lettered with free kicks and offside. A rare mistake by centre half
Liam Smith led to the opening goal for the visitors. Smith was
caught out bringing the ball out of defence by Matt Kerby who's 22

ight wing cross was
met at the far post by
the prolific Dylan Hart
who slotted home from
4 yards for his 12 goal
in 8 games.
The goal sparked the
home side into life and
on 19 minutes
should've been on level
terms. A superb 3 man
move involving Scott
Glasby, Lucas Hough
and Ricardo Ricketts
saw Ricketts left wing
cross evade the oncoming Zico Agyemang by inches. A minute later they
were on were on level terms another superb move splitting open the
visitors defence. An inch perfect pass by Jamie Holder found home
debutant Scott Stevenson who controlled the ball superbly to cross to
Leon Taylor who beat his defender and calmly slotted the ball into the
bottom right hand corner beyond the outstretched hand of keeper Joe
Sidaway. Within a minute of the goal Darlaston could have taken the
lead. A poor clearance fell to the feet of Stevenson whose audacious 35-
yard shot wrestled on the roof of the net with Sidaway well beaten.
On
loan
Kidderminster
Harriers player Adam
Beardsmore was
impressive for the
visitors and in Hart,
Simon Rudd and
Luke Morris they
have 3 of the
Division's leading
scorers but the
Darlaston
defence stood firm
limiting the visitors
to long range efforts
and half chances.
Ricketts and Reis
Nadat were making marauding runs down both flanks and the pace of
Agyemang and quality of Taylor was giving Bewdley all the problems
they could handle.
A Lucas Hough free kick from 25 yards went wide whilst Hart shot over
the bar for the visitors.
23

Darlaston were now
in the ascendancy
with some excellent
approach work and
it was only a matter
of time before they
were rewarded.
Jamie Holder shot
over the bar and on
30 minutes
Stevenson wasted a
glorious opportunity
to put his side
ahead. After
beating his marker
and bursting into the
box and with only
the onrushing
keeper Sidaway to beat he miss hit a 15-yard attempted lob right into the
hands of Sidaway.
Darlaston continued to assert and they were rewarded with a second goal
on 37 minutes. Lucas Hough won a 50/50 challenge 25 yards out, his
precision pass found Taylor who for the umpteenth time lost his marker as
he nonchalantly rounded Sidaway to tap the ball home from 6 yards.
Immediately following the break, Smith had a glorious chance to double
the lead heading over the bar a Scott Stevenson corner.
For a 20 minute spell Bewdley demonstrated their quality and class which
had earned them 7 straight league wins as they pushed for an equaliser.
Home keeper Liam
Whittaker was
called into action
with a fine diving
save to his right to
deny
Simon Rudd with
Luke Morris twice
and Hart shooting
over
from
distance.
Darlaston came
within inches of
doubling their lead,
a superb 40-yard
pass by Holder
found
Agyemang
24

who burst past Chris
Seeking, his angled
15-yard drive
missing the far post
by inches.
Connor Fellows,
Scott Glasby, Liam
Smith and Reis
Nadat stood firm at
the heart of the
defence and
gradually Darlaston
repelled Bewdley's
goal threat and
began to reassert
themselves again.
Chances were now few and far between but Darlaston were thankful to
keeper Whittaker on 78 minutes with another superb diving save to his
right to palm away Simon Rudd's vicious 15-yard shot
In the final minute a goal worthy of Darlaston's performance saw them
guarantee the points. Zico Agyemang chased a lost cause down the right,
shook off the attention of Chris Seeking and laid the ball back to Scott
Stevenson on the edge of the box, the cultured midfielder calmly picked
his spot and placed his 18 yard shot into the bottom right hand corner for
a goal that epitomised Darlaston's quality and work rate.
The quality of play from both teams was a credit to the Division and all
players and
management. On
balance Darlaston's
organisation, work
rate, desire and will
to win just edged it
and were the
deciding factors in
their best win since
returning to the
Premier
management. On
balance Darlaston's
organisation, work
rate, desire and will
to win just edged it
and were the
deciding factors in
their best win since returning to the Premier Division.
25

26

You’re the Ref
“That’s a foul ref!” “How can you miss that ref?” “Send
him off ref!” Try yourself out as an official with Alan
Tomlinson’s refereeing scenarios
1. Is there a particular situation where the referee is obliged to accept the
decision of one of their assistant referees?
(a) Yes, at throw-ins, goal kicks and for offside.
(b) No, the referee is never obliged to consider an assistant referee’s decision.
(c) Yes. If the referee has become temporarily incapacitated and play has continued
under the supervision of the assistant referee.
(d) Yes, provided that the assistant referee is closer to the play.
2. . Which people can the referee authorise to be in the technical area?
(a) Substitutes and officials.
(b) Substitutes, substituted players and team officials.
(c) Substituted players and officials.
(d) None of the answers are correct.
3. Can advantage be applied to the defending team in an offside situation?
(a) No, advantage may not be applied for infringements of Law 11.
(b) Yes, advantage may be applied but not inside the penalty area.
(c) No, advantage may not be applied for an offside offence.
(d) Yes, advantage may be applied provided that the defending team has full
control of the ball. 4. In the event of any infringement of Law
4 (Players Equipment), the referee should...
(a) ...stop play and ask the player to correct their equipment.
(b) ...stop play and caution the player, restarting the match with a dropped ball.
(c) ...instruct the player to leave the field of play to correct their equipment.
(d) ...stop play and instruct the player to leave the field of play to correct their
equipment.
5. A player takes a goal kick and the ball goes out over the goal line without leaving
the penalty area. What decision should the referee make?
(a) The referee awards a dropped ball.
(b) The referee orders the goal kick to be retaken.
(c) The referee awards a corner kick.
(d) None of the answers is correct.
How did you do? (Answers (
on Page 34)
27

“Beyond the
Dressing Room”
Today I won't be at the game suppor9ng the lads in the
physical sense because I will be celebra9ng my sisters
birthday. There aren't many things that would cause me to
miss a Darlaston first team game but celebra9ng with my
sister is definitely one of those reasons. Today marks a whole heap of home games
we have coming up that I really think we will all be sick and 9red of each other by the
end of this run! Extra pounds will be gained on the waistline due to the amazing 9ger
cobs and the food we have on sale, fingers crossed lots of points will be added on the
team’s total
Around the club and behind the scenes a significant amount of work has been
happening. Lynne and Gaz have been busy pain9ng and decora9ng the main room to
give it a bit of a 9dy up, 9ckets are on sale for so many events that it's hard to keep
track and there seems to be a never ending supply of things happening on and off the
field. Halloween, the Walsall FC game, a second mid week game against Wolves
Casuals, a League Cup game against todays opponents as well as the award winning
Stacy Green, who aBer her performance in August is bringing another tribute
performance, this 9me as Cher. All of these events are within a five week period, add
in the first team Saturday games, the ladies and youth teams on a Sunday, the
Paycare Ground and the volunteers will be working extremely hard. The list is
endless un9l the end of the year, I hope you will ask around and support some of the
events we really do have a blast! It's an amazing 9me to see for yourself just how
amazing our volunteers are, how much we love the club because everyone gives their
spare 9me to cover these events and matches!
In between all this madness I am fran9cally trying to organise a poppy display from
Darlaston Town (1874) to be included on the procession route for the Remembrance
Parade in Darlaston .I was contacted by former Club CommiFee Member and great
friend of the club Sharon Felton who is now running Darlaston all Ac9ve based at
Darlaston Town Hall, Sharon asked if the club want to design and provide a display
for the route. The idea seems to have really taken off, the local people
and businesses have really got behind Sharon’s idea everyone is working
28

hard to ensure the route for the parade is covered in poppies. It's been preFy full
on personally and that's without a full 9me job and a family, to keep plates spinning.
I think as a club we should support the local community, so if anyone can knit or
crochet poppies or you have family members who can, please support us, I need to
have them no later than 31st October and that would really be appreciated. To have
them by the 31 st will give me 9me to s9ck and organise them on a hessian backdrop
and get them to Sharon.
Now I have to men9on the dreaded C word, which is just around the corner, all
focus at the moment is on Halloween but with one eye on Christmas which follows
so quickly aBerwards. The conveyor belt just doesn't stop as a volunteer at this club!
And somewhere in between all of this are a heap of home games we have to pull off
too!
Can I ask a favour of you all...? And maybe you will skim over this request and think I
will leave it to someone else but I would very much like you all to share with me
some of your favourite memories of Darlaston Town. Whether it be a game, some
event, either with the old club or since we reformed as I want to begin recording
them in some way. The men and ladies and youth teams are certainly represen9ng
the blue and white stripes so amazingly that I am sure there are heaps of memories
we can collate and share.
On the subject of Christmas ideas keep coming of things we can do. We of course
will have the annual pantomime but I have a real vision of breakfast or dinner with
Santa, maybe even a Darlaston charity Christmas Calendar. What Darlaston fan
wouldn't want that!?! So once again let me know your ideas! As a club we are
always aBer new and innova9ve ideas and I think that's how you reach new people!
To stagnate and stay the same will result in boredom (that's what I tell myself
anyway)
So then into the new year and next year I am eager to kick off some really whacky
challenges. Gilbert Preece is always telling me he wants to skydive maybe we let
him!
So ask yourselves 'what would you like to see" 'is there anything I can do' or just let
us have your ideas. I may run a comments and sugges9ons box in the foyer through
the month of Nov to gauge ideas/sugges9ons. Don't be shy!
Whatever happens at todays tough game I am sure win, lose or draw the lads have
your support so get behind them, shout, cheer and rally the lads on!
#darloaywe
29

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30

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Website www.gmb-westmids.org.uk
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32

Around the League
Before we look back at last weekend’s action it is worth mentioning that
the managerial merry go round has been at full pace over the past few
weeks. Amongst the first to be relieved of his duties was Wayne Spicer at
Wolverhampton Sporting , he was quickly replaced by former Stoke City,
Watford, Kidderminster Harriers and Hednesford defender Francino
Francis. Scott Hamilton was replaced at Bilston by Noel Cotterall but
Cotterill lasted less than 3 weeks before being replaced by Wayne Spicer
last weekend. Chris Butts departed Cradley Town, James Bushell has
been appointed on a temporary basis. Hayden Foote left Smethwick to
take up a role at Bilston Town with Josh Grant quickly appointed as his
successor. In midweek Sean Geddes resigned at Black Country Rangers.
In Division One joint managers Shaun Bolton and Aaron Morris have both
resigned from FC Darlaston. Our former player/manager Mark Swann has
taken over supported by former fellow Darlaston stalwart John Reeves.
Turning now to last week’s action and Shifnal Town continue to forge the
pace at the top of the table recording their ninth consecutive league
victory in a 3-0 win in the Shropshire derby at struggling Wem Town.
Following their loss to us Bewdley Town returned to normal service
recording their eighth win in 9 league games with a 3-1 home win against
Dudley Sports. George Taylor and Zidan Sutherland were on target for
Smethwick Rangers in a 2-0 away win at Queen Street Bilston.
Littleton inflicted Wednesfield’s fourth consecutive League defeat at the
Cottage Ground. An own goal and two first half goals by Adam Garmston
settled the game. Pershore Town and Wolves Sporting battled out a 2-2
draw at Hazel Lane. Sam Clarke put Pershore ahead, Jamal Fuller
equalised before half time. Soms Sibanda put Sporting ahead from the
penalty spot, Pershore’s equaliser also coming from the spot courtesy of
Nick Seabourne.
Congratulations to Dudley Town who secured their progress into the FA
Vase 2nd round and a guaranteed £2,400 in prize money with a 2-1 extra
time win against high riding Midland League side Lichfield City. Extra
time goals from Hinesh Patel and Jason Hewitt put Town two goals ahead
before Max Black reduced the arrears to set up a nervy final few extra
time minutes. Also in the Vase Shawbury United secured a replay at
Uttoxeter Town, extra time could not separate the teams. In the reply
this week Uttoxeter won 4-0. Result of the day in the Vase goes to
Division One Droitwich Spa who secured a second round tie following an
impressive 2-0 win against high flying North West Counties Premier
Division side Whitchurch Alport. A brace from Jordan Cox, sent
the visitors who play two Steps higher in the non-league
33

pyramid, on their way.
In Division One Wellington Amateurs continue to set the pace following a
2-1 home win against Bustleholme. Matt Elsmore and an own goal for the
home side, James Thompson on target for the visitors. After five
consecutive wins former leaders Willenhall Town fell to their third
consecutive defeat a 7-1 thumping at Allscott Heath. Five goals from
Armondo Wood and two from Scott Ellis stunned the visitors.
Following his midweek move to Tipton Town, former Darlaston striker TJ
Davies was on target on his debut at Bromyard in a 4-1 win. Also on
target were Sam Armstrong, Matt Hogg and former Darlo midfielder Dan
Bell. In the Gornal derby Colts got the better of Athletic by the odd goal
in three at Garden Walk. Ex Darlo forward Nathan Griffiths gave Athletic
a 5th minute lead, goals from James Painter and Levi Salmon securing
the bragging rights for Colts.In the landlord v tenants game on the 4G at
Dudley it was tenants Wrens Nest who came away with the points with a
3-0 win against Team Dudley.
There were only three games in Division Two. Leaders Coven Athletic
visited second placed Church Stretton and returned with 3 points in a 2-1
win, James Hill put Stretton ahead but Coven showed why they are top
of the table with goals from Jordan Gocan and Dominic Latham. AFC
Bentley leap frogged Stretton into second spot with a 6-0 hammering of
Newport Town. Liam Hughes netted another hat trick, Ryan Bradshaw,
Dave Meese and Nathan Rose Laing also on the scoresheet. In the only
other game Telford Juniors recorded their second win of the season with
a 2-1 away win at Worcester Raiders Reserves. Martin Mensah and Mihal
Budaca on target for the Shropshire club.
WMRL Premier Division Goal Scorers
Player Team Apps Goals
Adam Garmson Littleton 14 14
Dylan Hart Bewdley Town 10 13
Tom Hill Shifnal Town 9 10
Kyle Montague Shifnal Town 10 10
Luke Morris Bewdley Town 11 10
Benjamin Billingham Littleton 13 9
Leon Taylor Darlaston Town (1874) 11 8
Roland Krol Worcester Raiders 10 7
You’re the Ref, Answers: 1c, 2b, 3d, 4c, 5b
34

WMRL
Premier Division
Pos P W D L GD Pts
1 Shifnal Town 9 9 0 0 29 27
2 Bewdley Town 9 8 0 1 24 24
3 Darlaston Town (1874) 11 5 3 3 6 18
4 W’ton Casuals 7 7 0 0 9 17
5 LiFleton 10 5 1 4 9 16
6 Worcester Raiders 10 5 1 4 2 16
7 Pershore Town 10 4 3 3 6 15
8 Dudley Town 9 5 0 4 3 15
9 AFC Bridgnorth 9 5 0 4 -1 15
10 Black Country Rangers 9 4 2 3 6 14
11 Wolves Spor9ng Com 7 3 2 2 6 11
12 Shawbury United 7 3 2 2 -1 11
13 Dudley Sports 10 2 2 6 -14 8
14 Smethwick Rangers 10 2 2 6 -15 8
15 Wednesfield 9 2 1 6 -10 7
16 Bilston Town 10 2 1 7 -15 7
17 Wem Town 10 2 0 8 -29 6
18 Cradley Town 10 1 0 9 -15 3
Next Game
Darlaston Town (1874) vs Dudley Sports
Saturday 26th October KO 3 pm
35

PLAYER APPEARANCE

S SEASON 2019-20

Darlaston Town (1874) F.C.
Ground Regulations
1. Permission to enter or to remain within the Ground is at the absolute
discretion of the Club or any authorised officer.
2. In the event of the postponement or abandonment of the Match,
refunds (if any) will be made at the discretion of the Club. The
Club will have no further liability whatsoever.
3. All persons seeking entrance to the Ground acknowledge the Club’s
right to search any person and to refuse entry to or eject from
the Ground any person refusing to submit to such a search.
4. The following articles must not be brought into the Ground knives,
fireworks, smoke canisters, air-horns, flares, musical instruments,
weapons, dangerous or hazardous items, laser devices, bottles, glass
vessels, cans, poles and any article that might be used as a weapon,
compromise public safety or annoy neighbours. Any person in breach
of these requirements will be refused entry or will be ejected from
the Ground.
5. The use of threatening behaviour, foul, aggressive, racist or abusive
language is forbidden and will result in immediate ejection from the
Ground at the discretion of the Club. The police will be called if
appropriate.
6. Racial abuse, chanting or harassment is strictly forbidden and will
result in arrest and/or ejection from the Ground at the discretion of
the Club. A ban for one or more matches will be imposed.
7. The following acts are arrestable offences under the Football
(Offences) Act 1991, as amended and conviction of such acts
may result in a banning order being imposed on the guilty party.
7.1 The throwing of any object within the Ground without lawful
authority or excuse.
7.2 The chanting of anything of an indecent or racial nature.
7.3 The entry onto the playing area or any adjacent area to
which spectators are not generally admitted without lawful
authority or excuse.
8. Nobody may stand in any seating or marked area whilst play is in
progress. Persistent standing in seated areas whilst play is in
progress is forbidden and will result in ejection from the Ground.
9. The obstruction of gangways, access ways, exits and entrances,
stairways and like places is strictly forbidden. Nobody
38

entering the Ground shall be permitted to climb any structures within
the Ground.
10. Smoking in No-Smoking areas is strictly forbidden.
11. Under the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc) Act 1985 as
amended, the following are offences for which a person can be
arrested by a Police Officer and conviction will result in a
Banning Order being made:
11.1 Attempting to enter the Ground or being inside the Ground
whilst drunk or in possession of alcohol.
11.2 The consumption of alcohol is entirely at the discretion of
the club, glass will not be allowed pitch side.
12. Any individual who has entered any part of the Ground designated
for the use of any group of supporters to which they do not belong
may be ejected from the Ground either for the purposes of their own
safety or for any other reason.
13. No goods of any nature may be offered for sale without the prior
written permission of the Club.
14. Photographs and videos
14.1 Photographs and videos cannot be taken or recorded at any
Youth Team games without specific consent being obtained
prior to the fixture or permission is granted from the relevant
Darlaston Town (1874) Youth Team manager prior to kick off
14.2 Photographs and videos are allowed to be taken or recorded at
all First Team matches. To enhance its standing with the
football and local community, to promote the interests of the
club and sponsors, and to keep supporters and followers fully
informed the club has a legitimate interest in publishing First
Team photos and videos including in their match day
programmes on their website and on their social media sites.
The photographs and videos will be destroyed in line with
GDPR Regulations
15. At all times whilst in the Ground, persons must comply with any
and all instructions of any committee member or authorised person.
Failure to comply with any instruction will lead to ejection from the
Ground.
16. The Club reserves the right to eject from the Ground any person
failing to comply with any of the Ground Regulations or whose
presence within the Ground is, or could reasonably be, construed as
constituting a source of danger, nuisance or annoyance to any
other person or neighbour. This will lead to further action by the
club including, but not limited to the issue of a banning order.
17. Entry to the Ground shall constitute acceptance of the
above Ground Regulations. 39

DARLASTON TOWN (1874)
SQUAD LIST
Aiden Blackham
Daniel Bolzon
Sammy Causton
Luke Charlton
Adam Cole
Ezekiel Agyemang
Tyrone Clarke-O'Connell
Liam Cox
Noah Diallo
Connor Fellows
Sco Glasby
Romano Graham
Andy Heal
Jamie Holder
Lucas Hough
Ryan Jones
Reis Nadat
Riccardo Rickes
Liam Smith
Leon Taylor
Liam Whiaker
WORCESTER RAIDERS
SQUAD LIST
Tim Bea;e
Kyle Belmonte
Brad Birch
Chris Bright
Sam Carey
George Corbe
Aaron Drake
Joshua Farnsworth
Dan Flowers
Dale Goddard
Zaqib Hussain
Roland Krol
Kirk Layton
Alex Marsh
Dan Norco
Lewis Pinches
Gavin Podmore
Dave Reynolds
Ryan Rowe
Logan Stoddart
Ma Tyler
Manager:
Coaches:
Management Team
Sports Therapist:
Andy Parkes
Ant Follows
Nick Lewis
Mike Howe
Trainee Sports Therapist
Aimee Clemson
Referee:
Guy Thrower
Match Officials
Assistants:
Chloe MaFhews
Rebecca ScoF –Mullen