Last minute equaliser

Paul Edwards has tweeted that it was the most undeserved point ever, but Leamington secured a 2-2 draw against Brackley at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium this afternoon with an injury time equaliser. They are now 13th in the table. Seeing Colby Bishop stretchered off in the second half was a real concern.

The first half was a rather dull affair with no real chances for either side, but Brakes went ahead just before the break through a header from Colby Bishop.

They then conceded a free kick in a dangerous position and Brackley equalised on 48 minutes.

Gittings then gave the ball away in midfield and Brackley were able to make it 2-1 to them from a header. Hood then had to clear off the line. It looked as if the visitors might score a third. They certainly ruled the roost in midfield.

In injury time Brakes got a corner and Breeden came up. The keeper tipped it over but from the second corner it went in the net from a Brackley player.

Attendance was 645, two dogs.

Not good enough

Leamington went down 0-1 at home to Stourbridge in the FA Trophy at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium today. Brakes weren't good enough across the game as a whole and one got the sense that cup specialists Stour wanted it more. It was their 11th cup game this season! Leamington never seemed to be able to find the second ball.

Leamington did have a chance to score about ten minutes in, but somehow the ball didn't end up in the net. On the whole it was a poor quality first half with neither side dominant.

The Glassboys bundled the ball in from a corner just after the break. Demands were made for Holleran to bring on substitutes, and eventually he did, but it didn't make much difference (except possibly Obeng but he only had 10 minutes). Brakes applied plenty of pressure in the last quarter of an hour, but Stour defended well. And a replay at their place was probably a reward not worth having.

Convincing victory

Leamington won a convincing 3-1 victory over Curzon Ashton in the FA Trophy at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium after going 0-1 down early in the first half.

The Brakes went behind in the 4th minute after a goal was scored from play from a free kick. Taking advantage of a Dunbar free kick, Joe Magunda equalised in the 39th minute from a header in a goalmouth scramble.

Brakes more pressure immediately after the interval and were rewarded when Curzon scored an own goal. It was the best finish of the match.

Just after he had come on as a substitute, Ahmed Obeng went down in the area and Liam Canavan made it 3-1 from the penalty spot. This at last quietened the single vociferous Curzon supporter in the stand. After that it was just a question of whether they could score again.

The referee managed to dish out plenty of yellow cards, Curzon could have got more as they played a physical game.

The 'Villagers' change hands

There has been a change of ownership at North Ferriby United, the bottom club in the National League North known as 'The Villagers'. The club was first put on the market in March 2016. Up to 2015 Steve and Eman Forster injected a quarter of a million pounds into the club, but then said it would have to pay its way given the lack of commercial revenue and the small fan base.

The Forsters have transferred ownership of the club to Jamie Waltham, leaving the club debt free. Jamie Waltham, previously at Hull United and then East Yorkshire Carnegie, was at one time a player at the club. He is a local businessman working in areas such as property and gas fitting.

Rankings against Spennymoor

The Non-League Paper has given Tony Breeden the accolade of a rare score of 9 for his performance in the 4-0 victory over Spennymoor, well-deserved given his two super penalty saves. Colby Bishop also received a 9.

Other scores: Taundry, 8; Gudger, 7; Magunda, 7; Hood, 7; English, 7; Dunbar, 7; Gittings, 7; Bishop, 9 (Revan, 7); Clarke, 7; Felix, 7.

An attendances paradox

National League North games attract higher average attendances than those in the National League South: Why is this the case?

Leamington are 15th in the attendance table on 658, at least we are ahead of Nuneaton (638). But we did attract bigger crowds when we were lower down the pyramid.

Manager of the month curse strikes

The manager of the month award often brings a good run of form to an end and so it was at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium today as Leamington went down 0-2 to lowly Boston United in front of a crowd of 592 (and no canine supporters).

Brakes went a goal behind on three minutes when Tony Breeden came out of his goal to deal with a long throw by Tom Muggleton, was unable to do so and the visitors scored. This early setback seemed to take the wind out of Leamington's sails and they were unable to put any decent moves together until later in the half.

The referee was being assessed and this encouraged him to enforce the rules by the letter. Dunbar, English and Gittings all received yellow cards for what admittedly were unnecessary fouls. Then Mace went into the book as the referee awarded a penalty. I thought that the advancing Harry Vince was offside. Ashley Hemmings put the ball into the right-hand corner of the net to make it 0-2.

The award of a free kick for a back pass gave Brakes a chance after the break, but there were too many defenders in the way. There was then a penalty claim, but the referee was not going to give any favours to the home side.

Subsequently Breeden received a yellow card for dissent.

Brakes nearly got back into the game, but visiting keeper George Willis made a good save to tip the ball over the bar.

Leamington did make a more determined effort in the second half, but to no avail. Indeed, only a good interception stopped Boston making it 0-3.

Leamington are 17th tonight, four points ahead of Boston in the top relegation position.

Congratulations to Paul Holleran

Congratulations to Paul Holleran on being made National League North manager of the month for October: Viva Holleran

After a worrying start to the season, both performances and results have improved considerably.

There is something of a pattern of winning this award affecting a team's results adversely, so let's hope for three points tomorrow!

Brakes 2nd in form table

Brakes are second in the form table after their 3-0 win over North Ferriby United yesterday. They were unbeaten in October, despite some tough games. although this was only their second home win this season.

Jack Edwards opened the scoring after seven minutes when he took advantage of a long throw from Kurtis Revan. Revan then won a penalty on 30 minutes which was converted by Rob Thompson-Brown. Revan won a second penalty for Brakes on 56 minutes which was again converted by Thompson-Brown. Breeden had to make a good late save.

Non-League Paper player ratings: Breeden, 6; Mace, 6; Gudger, 7; Gittings 7; Hood, 6; English, 6; Dunbar, 6; Edwards, 7 (Magunda, 74, 6); Revan, 8 (Bishop 79, 7); Canavan, 7 (Taundry 74, 6); Thompson-Brown, 6.

Alex Rodman's story

Former Brakes player Alex Rodman was the subject of a full page feature in The Times on Saturday. He has been an ever present for Shewsbury this season, scoring twice and contributing five assists.

Now living in Solihull, he played for the Brakes for three years while studying for a business studies degree at Nottingham Trent university. He was paid £30 a week and then in his last year at uni went to Tamworth where he earned £60-£70 a week.

He went on play for Aldershot Town and got three England C caps. However, he was then diagnosed with blood clots all over his lungs, had to go to hospital and was on Warfarin for three months. With his career apparently at an end, he broke down in tears but went on to play more than 200 games.

Rodman's father established Warwick Sports & Leisure.

Now aged 30, he is taking a master's in sports directorship at Manchester Metropolitan University. 'I found the more I dive into books, the more I read and learn and challenge myself, the more I grow as a person and a player. I feel that not only am I in the best shape of my life, fitness-wise, but also intelligence-wise with the decisions I make on the pitch and off.'

Outstanding result

One tweeter described it as the outstanding result of Non-League Day as Leamington beat promotion challengers Salford City 3-2 and ended their unbeaten home run in front of a crowd of 1,582.

I would not have been able to make it as I was taking part in the Alzheimer's Society Memory Walk in Leamington in memory of my wife Maggie, a former vice-president. At least it was good to see I could walk 5.5 kms without difficulty, albeit a bit slowly.

The report in the Non-League Paper is a bit grudging, describing it as 'unlikely win'. At least one of the Salford fans seems upset with the officials for not dealing with Leamington 'cheating' and is going to report them. Good luck with that (I think the standard of officiating at this level is much better than it was in the third tier). Leamington goals were:

• 19 minutes Thompson-Brown penalty after Jack Edwards was impeded
• 44 minutes Connor Gudger free kick from 25 yards inside the left-hand upright
• Substitute Kurtis Revan five minutes from time from close range.

Non-League Paper Player Ratings

Star man: Tony Breeden. Mace, 6; Gudger, 7; Hood, 6; English, 6; Clarke, 6; Dunbar, 7 (Taundry 90); Magunda, 6; Moore, 6 (Revan, 68, 7); Edwards, 5; Thompson-Brown, 6 (Gittings, 80, 6).

Interview with the non-league Beckham

Very interesting in depth interview with the non-league Beckham, Jack Edwards, by Windmill Wonderland: Jack Edwards

Victory at home at last

Leamington beat Bradford Park Avenue 2-1 at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium this afternoon to move to fourth from bottom in the table. They gave away an easy early goal from a corner, but then Dunbar caught the keeper out of his goal and made no mistake in getting past him for the equaliser. It was 1-1 at half time and the match could have gone either way, but two substitutes provided decisive. Clever work in the box by Kurtis Revan set up Ahmed Obeng to make it 2-1.

It was a balmy early autumn afternoon, but the early setback with the visitors given a free header by calamity defending caused gloom among Leamington supporters. However, as the Bloke Beside Me pointed out, it could be a blessing in disguise as it stopped us being defensive.

There were too many hopeless balls being punted forward to no one in particular when short passes on the ground were needed. The visitors were getting a lot of corners. Hood put in some good defensive work, his headers stopping potential danger. Bradford's No.11 was booked for kicking the ball away, but continued to protest and seemed to blame the lino who had not touched the ball. It was quite a physical encounter.

Leamington applied pressure in the second half, but could not find the back of the net. Breeden had to make more than one excellent save. On one occasion Hood and English let their centre forward through on goal. Joe Magunda, who put in a fighting performance, got booked for a bit of afters. Many of us thought that the Bradford player should have been booked as well. Rob Thompson-Brown hit the keeper's knees from distance. After we scored the goal, we managed to hang on despite one or two scares.

I would rate this as the best home performance I have seen this season and the win was well deserved. We should remember that Bradford are an in form team.

Attendance 502 and one dog.

Brakethrough

It looked as if it was going to end in a dull 0-0 draw and a replay at home, or possibly yet another early exit from the FA Cup. However, Leamington scored two late goals at Westfields this afternoon to put themselves in the draw for the 3rd qualifying round.

Breeden gave away a penalty on 15 minutes, but then redeemed himself by saving the home side's effort. After a poor first half for the visitors, things brightened up somewhat in the second half with Jamie Hood (who had earlier received a harsh booking) hitting the bar.

Bishop scored for the Brakes on 89 minutes after a Dunbar free kick initially went into the wall. Brakes then won a penalty which was scored by Robbie Thompson-Brown to make it 2-0 to the visitors.

Well done Brakes!

A creditable, battling 1-1 draw at Curzon Ashton last night moved Leamington out of the relegation zone, albeit we have played one more game than most teams because of Curzon's curious (and unfair) practice of playing midweek games on Monday nights. All credit to those supporters who made the long trip. I remember going up there for a cup tie when it all kicked off.

The Leamington goal was scored by our non-league Beckham, Jack Edwards.

Just need to rectify the home form now. Yes, the new stadium is a 'game changer', but we also need game changers on the pitch.

Fighting draw at Darlington

Leamington put in a fighting performance to achieve a 0-0 draw at Darlington today. They could have nicked it at the end. It was a better result than I expected. All credit to the 30 or so Brakes supporters who made the long journey up there. I see that one Darlo fan has tweeted, indignant at the draw, that we are the 'worst team in the division.'

Just a pity about our home form.

Leamington remain second from bottom, but on the same number of points as FC United of Manchester and Gainsborough Trinity. This season is going to be about beating the teams around us. If we can do that, we can survive.

The loan signing of Charley Edge from Colchester United is a positive move. It's entirely possible that the board have awakened from their Rip van Winkle 'its all about a new stadium overcoming a flawed business model' dream and realised that they have to think about what's happening on the pitch at the moment. No doubt they would say they do, but homilies about stadiums in the programme don't help to give that impression.

Brakes lose at home again

Leamington lost their third home match of the season when they went down 2-3 at home to Alfreton Town at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium last night. Fortunately, North Ferriby United , who were ahead at half time, lost 2-1 so the Brakes are not bottom of the table.

The heavy rain in the run up to the match undoubtedly kept the crowd down which was 435 and I didn't see the non-league dog. The rain stopped before long.

After Obeng was brought down, having taken advantage of a good through ball from Dunbar, Leamington were awarded a penalty which was decisively taken by Tony Breeden. The visitors then equalised through play from a corner, but Stefan Moore put the Brakes 2-1 ahead with a poacher's goal. He is looking leaner and meaner this season. The target was then to keep the lead until half time, but a defensive mix up saw the equaliser scored on 45 minutes.

It was end-to-end in the second half, but Alfreton showed considerable pace, were quicker to the ball and provided some accurate long-range passes. It looked as if we were settling for a point. It was no surprise when they scored the winner after a defensive mix up following a free kick. Once again we were being forced back with the striker isolated up front and we start to tire in the last 15 minutes, leading to panic stations.

A splendid full moon came out, but even broomsticks wouldn't have helped Leamington get an equaliser.

The returning Jack Edwards, whose visage was on the front of the programme, contributed well. He picked up a head wound and also a yellow card.

Paul Holleran was given a resounding vote of confidence by chairman Jim Scott in the programme. The real problem, anyway, is that the players are not good enough for this level.

We're rubbish and know we are

It was at least 25 degrees today, but the non-league dog was not going to put off watching his team.

Leamington are bottom of the National League North tonight after going down 0-3 at home to AFC Telford. 711 and one dog, including a good contingent of Telford supporters, watched this latest humiliation.

All credit to Telford, they played well. Brakes couldn't pass, couldn't keep possession, couldn't get to the ball first, couldn't keep a shape, couldn't take scoring chances and couldn't defend. Even the flat back six couldn't save them.

They had a number of chances to go ahead in the first half, but were unable to get the ball in the back of the net from them. The visitors then killed the game off with two quick goals and scored a third in the second half.

Brakes put in four shots in the opening phase of the first half, three of them were chances. Thompson-Brown just missed and then Taundry put in a great shot that led to a Leamington corner. Brakes hit the crossbar.

On 19 minutes a defensive mix up involving Breeden created a scoring opportunity for Dwyer. On 21 minutes Telford parted our defence like the Red Sea, Hood failing to intercept and Dwyer put in a great shot from distance that outwitted Breeden.

The visiting supporters started to chant 'dodgy keeper' and Breeden's risk taking is being found out at this level. The midfield were giving the strikers no support and Leamington were being forced back. We were too narrow and had no width.

Thompson-Brown picked up a yellow card for a foul.

Half time: Brakes 0, AFC Telford 2

Telford eased off a little in the second half to conserve their energy. Mace replaced Hood who will be banned for the next three games. Obeng, who had had a poor game for him, was taken off and replaced by Colby Bishop and this did help a bit. Breeden made two good saves to keep the score line respectable. Telford's Dinanga got a yellow card for trying to stop Breeden taking a free kick. Telford then burst through to score a good goal and put the game beyond doubt. Revan was replaced by Canavan. Magunda picked up a yellow card.

Having Revan in the centre doesn't play to his strengths. Gittings had a decent game.

Paul Holleran was static as the game to an end. He wasn't even leafing through his book of excuses. However, the fundamental problem is that the players are not good enough for this level of football. The board always plead a lack of money and they have a point, given the number of wealthy clubs in this league. Even Telford have Wolves playing their reserve games there.

However, they had better take their eyes off the Eldorado of the new stadium and sort this out, otherwise we will be the first club in the top part of the non-league pyramid to go down.

Perhaps as a start they could pay the coach fare of fans going to FC United next Saturday.

Brakes hammered at Nuneaton

Leamington lost the Warwickshire derby 4-0 at Nuneaton this afternoon with Jamie Hood red carded. Let's hope it was actually Jamie Hodd as on the team sheet. However, he appeared to push an opposition player and make contact with his face.

Brakes were comprehensively outplayed and unable to deal with fierce shots from distance. It was all too easy for the home side. Leamington were 3-0 down at half time.

As someone said, bring on North Ferriby United so we can win something. Leamington now have the same number of points as North Ferriby and are second from bottom.

It is being argued that Holleran peaks at Southern League Premier level and can't cope with National League North. However, I am not sure that the squad is strong enough. Even the defence couldn't stand up to Nuneaton today.

Attendance was 712.

Where you when you were good?

Looking through my programme collection, I came across this one from 2000 when Stockport County were in Division 1, now known as the Championship. One of the curious things about the programme is that there is no league table, but I know that Charlton won 3-1 going four points clear at the top of the table. Andy Hunt, 'the man up front', scored a hat trick.

Stockport finished the season 17th with two late wins keeping them safe from relegation. Attendances weren't great averaging 7,178. They can get half that attendance today in the National League North.

Curiously David Blunkett made a half time appearance, but without his dog, to the disappointment of many. Legendary mascot Vernon the Bear appeared and pretended to urinate against what would be the Stockport toilet in the second half.

The programme is a full and interesting one. One odd feature was an analysis of the Charlton coach proclaimed to be 'one of the finest coaches in the game'. Apparently it was a 'recently converted 1996 Scania K113 Van Hool Alizee with 35 seats.' The jewel in the crown 'was the demountable sunken toilet which has to be one of the finest examples in the country.' I would be quite happy to give it (the programme, not the toilet)to a serious collector.

A long, hard season

Brakes went down 2-0 at Kidderminster Harriers last night. I had hoped to get to Kiddy, but was feeling a bit under the weather yesterday.

In the second half the hosts were awarded what some who were thought was a soft penalty, possibly even diving. Then later Breeden went up for a corner and Kiddy seized their opportunity and scored from 40 yards.

I enjoy watching Tony Breeden, he reminds me of my boyhood hero Sam Bartram who was also a bit of a showman who liked to play out of his goal, but I think that Breeden needs to calm down a bit.

Leamington are now 17th. I think the one hope this season is that there are a few weaker sides in the division. Village team North Ferriby United are still on zero points after four games.

Unofficial Brakes commented, 'Just as you'd expect. We worked hard, hard to break down, never looked like scoring. We HAVE to sign a goal scorer, else we will go down. Simple as that.'

Courtney Baker-Richardson came on for Swansea City in the Checkatrade Trophy and provided the assist that led to the winning goal.

A step above

Leamington lost 0-1 at home to Southport today and it was clear that there is a big difference between the third and second tiers of non-league football, from the standard of play to the refereeing. We even have a mascot: Lemmy the Lion. I would say that the National League North looks better than when we were last in it.

Brakes might have got a goalless draw, but were denied a point by unforced errors.

The main lesson I drew from this game is that you have to be quicker to the ball, otherwise you will be denied it. The other side are not going to stand around waiting for you, the pace of the game is simply quicker. You mustn't go too deep, as we did particularly in the early stages, and you can't give the opposition too much space.

All credit to Southport's well organised defence and in particular their capable keeper Iain Turner who made one brilliant save to deny Brakes.

We looked rather nervous at the start of the first half and were forced back a lot by the confident visitors, although Junior English had a good early effort. We gradually got into the game more and could have scored if Turner had not made a great one handed save in play following a free kick.

The second half started rather quietly and Southport made their first substitution after about ten minutes (announced as being for Southampton who my son-in-law was watching), eventually using all three. Leamington were starting to play with more confidence. Joe Magunda had been having a good game, but then failed to get rid of the ball while Breeden rushed out from his goal, allowing the visitors to score.

Brakes made a double substitution, although Stefan Moore did not make a great difference. Leamington showed more urgency and tried to push forward, but the skill wasn't there to break down the defence.

Attendance was 711 and one dog, fewer than my forecast of 752. The Sandgrounders didn't bring that many, their main crew was made up of about a dozen rather bafflingly yelling 'yellows' and 'yellow army'.

Referee James Oldham was better than we are used to. He kept the game flowing. He was rather fond of over long lectures to players, but eventually gave a yellow card to Southport persistent offender Adam Dugdale.

My man of the match was Ahmed Obeng.

Leamington are now 12th in the table.

So, farewell then, Courtney Baker-Richardson

His departure is a big blow, although I understand that he has to take his chance. Here is the Coventry Evening Telegraph report: From non-league to Premiership

Fresh squad makes flying start

Saturday's visitors, Southport, are currently 2nd in the National League North, having beaten Bradford Park Avenue 2-1 away on Tuesday night. This followed an opening day 4-0 win against Boston United. This was in spite of having to assemble a squad from scratch following relegation with only one player remaining.

The Sandgrounders are one of the former Football League clubs to visit this season. They joined in 1921 and were the last club to be voted out under the re-election process in 1978: Southport

The club places particular value on 33-year old attacking midfielder Steven Schumacher. He is combining playing for Southport with a coaching role at Everton.

However, he was injured against Boston after sending a 25-yard free kick into the top right-hand corner of the goal.

Home defeat

I had hoped that Tamworth at home was one match Leamington could win, but the Brakes went down 1-2 at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium tonight. We didn't deserve to win the match. There were far too many aimless long balls. Possession was surrendered too easily.

We went behind on four minutes to a rather fluke own goal which bounced down off the crossbar. Tamworth's No.9, charm merchant, Reece Styche, was establishing himself as the pantomime villain and did eventually get a yellow card later in the game.

Junior English drew Leamington level on 24 minutes, taking advantage of a corner. Tamworth continued to threaten, a fierce shot from distance coming off the post.

Both teams had chances in the second half, but Tamworth looked more of a threat. Leamington seemed to spend most of the time clearing their lines and it was no surprise when they sneaked the ball into the net on 74 minutes. A double substitution for the Brakes, featuring Walsall loan player Milan Butterfield, made no real difference.

Obeng had a good game.

I didn't hear the attendance, but it looked like a good crowd for a wet Tuesday night.

Paul Okey has tweeted that Courtney Baker-Richardson's move to Swansea City is just awaiting for the result of heart scans. Apparently, there should be a decent cash sum in it for Brakes.

Holleran salutes 'fanastic fanbase'

Brakes boss Paul Holleran describes the National League North as like an 'old League Two' in an interview in The Non-League Paper. 'We are aware we are a small club, but we are run very well and have a fantastic fanbase, so we have to try and be competitive. It's a strong league with some fantastic clubs.'

Talking about the relegation back to the Southern League after two seasons in the Conference North, Holleran said: 'It's such a tough division - some good sides get stuck at that level by just missing out on the one promotion spot - so it was such a blow to be back at that level. We all looked at ourselves after being relegated, and to be honest I was ready to hang up my boots, but after 17 or 18 years in management I didn't want to end on my only relegation.'

Holleran puts the club's relegation down to his own inexperience and the club losing some of its key players, but this year confidence and experience is far higher going into the season. 'We will need to be at it from the word go. We don't have massive squad depth, so we need all our players to be at their best for every minute. We have to make sure we are competitive and reach 45/48 points as quickly as possible.'

Tony Breeden highlights video

The best of Tony Breeden: Breedstar

4-3 win for Brakes

Brakes continued their impressive run of pre-season preparations with a 4-3 win over a youthful Birmingham City side at a chilly and wet Phillips 66 Community Stadium this afternoon. It was 4-1 at half time, but the visitors replaced hapless keeper Jake Weaver by Conal Trueman who was much more impressive while Leamington faded a little in the second half. Indeed, they probably would not have won if it was not for a number of impressive saves by Tony Breeden throughout the game which won praise from Birmingham fans around me.

A rather soft penalty allowed Rob Thompson-Brown to open the scoring for the home side on six minutes. The visitors started to come to the game a bit more, but then Courtney Baker-Richardson made it 2-0 on 24 minutes. McDonald replied for the visitors, but Brakes then went 3-1 ahead through Junior English who worked well throughout the game. Good work by Ahmed Obeng on the wing set up Baker-Richardson to make it 4-1 before the break.

The visitors made it 4-2 with what was probably the best goal of the matches and then on 80 minutes the ball crept in from a corner.

Stefan Moore came on a sub, but I don't think he touched the ball once, ghosting around the pitch. It was an entertaining match.

'Give this a good write up'

Tony Breeden's penalty save. His penalty goal was something as well.

That was the instruction a fan gave me on the coach after last night's victory for Leamington in the Birmingham Senior Cup final over Wolves at Molineux. I didn't need any encouragement. This was a fitting finale to what has been an excellent season for the Brakes. As someone else said 'Leamington 1, Charlton 0', compensating for a poor season at The Valley.

We had a magical mystery tour on the coach on the way there. If I had wanted to get to the vicinity of Birmingham Airport, I could have got there more quickly via Kenilworth and Balsall Common.

Before the game a presentation was made to Paul Holleran for his 400th managerial appearance. I have been critical of his formations on occasion, but last night we look very well organised. We were fluent and passed the ball along the ground to each well, showing good anticipation of positioning.

After 15 minutes the lively Obeng (later named man of the match) was brought down in the area and the referee pointed to the spot. Thompson-Brown gave the keeper no chance to make it 1-0 to the Brakes.

Meanwhile, I had to put up with the Irish branch of the Wolves supporters club behind me, the height of their wit being to advise that Tony Breeden should be sent to weight watchers. A much better quip was that of the Brakes supporter who bellowed, 'You're worse than Cinderford.'

After the break Wolves became more energetic and determined and exerted some real pressure. Tony Breeden made a good save with his leg, but eventually Sealy equalised from eight yards out.

Leamington remained in the game, although they were starting to tire, but some judicious substitutions reinvigorated them. It was a good thing, however, that there was no provision for extra time.

There was an outbreak of handbags on 90 minutes after substitute Richard Batchelor was shoved and Tony Breeden came up to join in.

Tony Breeden, who reminds me of Charlton's legendary Sam Bartram, stepped up to take the first penalty and scored decisively. At 5-4, he saved from Sealy to give Brakes the trophy.

Attendance was 920 (no dogs), not sure there were 800 Leamington as the Express & Star says in its report (Wolves have won the BSC seven times): Local report

Good to see Barry Reeve to get a volunteer trophy at the end of the game for everything he does for the club (not least making the tea and coffee for the vice-presidents).

When we won the BSC in 1951

Around 3,000 spectators turned up to the replayed final of the Birmingham Senior Cup at the Windmill Ground in May 1951. They were not to be disappointed. Lockheed Leamington beat Hereford United to bring the Senior Cup to the area for the first time with a 3-1 victory. ‘At one time Lockheed Leamington held a three goal lead, after Hugh Morrow had been pushed from behind while in front of an open goal and Freddie Keeble scored from a penalty.’

‘It was a surprising state of affairs for Hereford United never deserved to be losing by such a margin. However, within minutes of conceding their third goal, they attacked with renewed vigour, and scored through Bowen. Following their success, Hereford attacked strongly, but their attempts to put the ball into the home net proved fruitless. Latham and his team were quicker on the ball and tackled well. Four minutes from time Dobbs saved a certain goal, when, with Spencer beaten, he managed in some miraculous manner to head the ball over the bar as he was falling backwards into the net.’

‘The game opened with Lockheed Leamington on the attack but clever, cool defensive work held them at bay. In the 14th minute Soden surprised everyone, including the Hereford United goalkeeper, with a looping left-foot shot, and the ball hit an upright and ran across the goalmouth. Although the Lockheed attacks were less frequent than that of the visitors, they always appeared the more dangerous.’

‘A grand move with the ball passing from Gardner on to Soden, Morrow and French, provided the latter with a good scoring opportunity, but he delayed his shot. In the 35th minute French made amends. Hereford were on the attack and their right winger Bowen missed an easy chance to place the visitors ahead. A tame shot was cleared and Morrow chased the loose ball, and forced a corner which was taken by Gardner. The ball passed over the heads of a crowd of players to French, who hesitated slightly before lobbing the ball under the Hereford United bar. The goalkeeper would undoubtedly have flicked the ball away had Soden not harassed him. The Brakes held the lead until the interval, and they did not rest on their laurels. Although cornered by the flag post, Frank Gardner tricked his man and with a superb left foot centre dropped the ball precariously in the Hereford goalmouth, but the chance was not accepted.’

‘In the 58th minute Hugh Morrow, Lockheed Leamington’s best forward, scored with a hard shot. Accepting the ball from Soden, without the delay that characterised the Hereford team, he kicked the ball hard and low from 20 yards out, without giving the goalkeeper any chances to save. Frank Keeble was the best Leamington defender. He always tried to use the ball, especially in heading, and did remarkably good work in breaking up many right flank moves. The visiting centre forward Thompson, who formerly played for Sheffield United, displayed some clever footwork. In one dazzling 30 yard run he made a fine opening, but Williams missed an easy chance.’

‘Hereford United were more scientific, but their skill and artistry was too elaborate, and Lockheed adopted more direct methods which produced goals.’

This originally appeared in the programme for the semi-final against Walsall, but that had a fairly low attendance, so many may not have seen it.

We are going up

Chairman and manager with the trophy

Leamington beat Hitchin Town to win promotion to tier two of the non-league pyramid in front of a record ground crowd of 2,108 and two dogs this afternoon.

Hitchin went ahead after ten minutes with a soft goal when a free kick was scrambled in at the far post. The Leamington players looked nervous and their efforts were somewhat disjointed, while the antics of charm merchant Brett Donnelly provided a constant and intended distraction. The Hitchin keeper was not really tested.

Brakes looked more invigorated after the break, but it was still difficult to work out where a goal was going to come from and the couple beside me left a few minutes before the end of normal time. Then, in the 90th minute Brakes won a penalty and Hitchin had a player sent off for a second yellow card. Rob Thompson-Brown stepped up to put the ball decisively in the back of the net.

The concern then was that the game might go to penalties but Courtney Baker-Richardson scored in the 114th minute, an excellent goal that looped into the top corner of the net.

It still required a great save from Tony Breeden and a Hitchin failure to take advantage of an open goal before the celebrations could begin.

Pilgrimage in vain

A large number of Banbury supporters came up the M40 this afternoon to see their team play at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium, boosting the crowd to over 800, but the Pilgrims went down 1-0.

In the first phase of the game attempts from Brakes were either off target or did not trouble the keeper. However, one shot come down off the crossbar and could well have gone in. Then, following a free kick, Jamie Hood found the back of the net for Leamington. He had an excellent game in defence as well.

A second goal eluded the Brakes, although they kept pressing. Banbury won two corners at the end of the game and could have scored from the second one.

At the end of the game the visiting support chanted 'You're going nowhere, we'll see you next year.' We shall see.

Well done Brakes!

Leamington went through to the final of the Birmingham Senior Cup, beating a strong Walsall side 2-1 at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium tonight. It was an excellent match with some good flowing football from both sides.

Brakes went down 0-1 in the first half with Tony Breeden stranded outside his goal. That remained the score with five minutes to go, although Brakes had been fighting hard, having seen the ball come off the woodwork and cleared off the line. Then we equalised through Obeng who had been tormenting the Saddlers throughout the game and Jack Edwards made it 2-1 in the dying minutes.

Attendance 268 plus two dogs.

The old five

Leamington completed a clinical 5-0 demolition of Dunstable Town at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium this afternoon. Unfortunately, Chippenham beat Merthyr 3-1 to maintain their lead at the top of the table.

An early stinging shot from the visitors tested Tony Breeden who made a good save at the expense of a corner. The antics of young visiting keeper Jack Smith drew shouts of 'Tony Breeden' from the crowd as he played outside of his area.

Courtney Baker-Richardson opened the scoring with a shot that looked as it might have been a cross, but it found the back of the net. Brakes were then awarded a penalty calmly dispatched by Rob Thompson-Brown. An own goal by hapless Dunstable No. 3 Gedeon Okito then made it 3-0 before the break.

An error by the keeper allowed Jack Edwards to make it 4-0 into an empty net. A shot from distance by Richard Taundry from distance that scythed along the ground then made it 5-0.

Jamie Hood put in some excellent defensive work and new signing Kurtis Revan put in some excellent passes when he came on as a substitute.

When Dunstable's Harry Bean had to go off after a coughing fit his replacement did not look at all keen to come on. Dunstable had only brought three substitutes and it was joked that it was the coach driver.

Job done

Leamington consolidated their hold on second place in the Southern Premier League with a workmanlike 2-0 victory over St. Neots Town at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium this afternoon. Merthyr Tydfil are three points behind the Brakes and have played two more games. Chippenham maintained their seven point lead with a 1-0 win.

Leamington dominated the opening phase of the first half and created a number of chances, but they were all off target, although the strong wind didn't help. Obeng was particularly wasteful when one on one with the Tango keeper, putting the ball well wide. The visitors came into the game more towards the end of the half and there were fears of them taking the lead.

Nerves were settled early in the second half when a good cross from Connnor Gudger allowed Jack Edwards to head the ball into the net. A great strike from distance by Gregory provided the second goal.

Brakes remained in control of the game, but did not come that close to scoring a third. Credit to the referee for booking Fortnam-Tomlinson for simulation.

Attendance was 582 and one dog.

The Old Five

Some fluent and fluid play by Leamington saw them defeat Dorchester Town 5-0 at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium this afternoon. Unfortunately, results elsewhere mean that they stay in 4th place.

Edwards headed down for Obeng to open the scoring. Powell then made it 2-0 from close range after some good build up play. Obeng scraped the upright and if it hadn't been for a couple of good saves by the Dorchester keeper, Brakes could have been further ahead at half time.

On 57 minutes a long run from Courtney Baker-Richardson into the box saw him put a low shot into the corner of the goal to make it 3-0. Mace headed in from a corner to make it 4-0. Thompson-Brown then made it five with a long low shot.

On a raw afternoon, Brakes fans were sent home with a warm feeling inside them. Attendance 405 plus two dogs.

Slough of Despond

Leamington went down 0-6 at home to Slough Town this afternoon and were toppled off top position in the Southern Premier by Chippenham, although they are only two points ahead and the Brakes have a game in hand.

This was my first live game since my knee operation. It has been evident that form has been slipping a bit, but this was a disaster. Slough were given too much space for their first goal which was a curling effort from 20 yards. About five defenders were then unable to stop them scoring their second.

Rowe then got himself sent off and Slough scored their third with a free header from a free kick.

I'm not sure what I would do if I was the manager and I was 0-3 down at half time. What I wouldn't do is get another player sent off which is what happened to Jack Edwards when he got a second yellow for grabbing an opposition player by the throat.

There were four dogs present, which was a record canine attendance in a crowd of 655.

When a town has more than one non-league club

It's quite unusual for a town to have more than one non-league club, but it does happen: Eastbourne currently has three.

Both of the last programme articles I wrote for Leamington FC concerned towns which at one time had more than one non-league club. First, St. Ives before the First World War: Mr Doyle said that they had lost several of their players, who had joined the Amateur Football Association club in the town. He thought that the principal reason was that the players did not like the ground that was hired. Mr Corbett said that he was the first secretary of the opposition club, and he should be sorry to see the Town Club to go under. He moved, “That this meeting send a deputation to the Arthurian Club to suggest a compromise, viz., that they should run a junior team and the Town Club the senior team.”’ The proposal was rejected by the meeting.

‘Mr. Golding said it was impossible for the two clubs to be run in the way that was suggested if the Arthurians still kept up the A.F.A. as members could not play for both. Mr Corbett thought the Arthurians would drop out of the A.F.A., and join the Hunts F.A. The Mayor thought that they ought to form their own club first, and then if they thought it wise this club could go to the other club and see if the compromise could be made. A show of hands was taken of those playing members present, and it was found that there were about 14.’

Chippenham

Chippenham was in the unusual position of having two senior non-league clubs for two periods in the 20th century. Chippenham Town and Chippenham United both existed in the early years of the century and then Chippenham United was revived after the Second World War. Chippenham United joined the Western League Division Two for the 1948-49 season, winning their division at their first attempt and gaining promotion to Division One. The following season, they finished above Chippenham Town for what was to be the only time in the club’s history. United’s best league finish was in 1950-51, when they finished fourth with Town in third position. The following seasons were less successful, and they only escaped relegation in 1955-56 due to the expansion of Division One. However, the club was relegated in 1957-58 after finishing bottom of the table. The club dropped out of the Western League at the end of the 1959-60 season and disbanded a couple of years later.

When the two clubs were at the height of their success, letters to the local paper called on them to merge so that the town might aspire to Southern League football, but to no avail. United were well supported, taking 2,000 fans to one away match in 1950. They also had professional players, some with Football League experience, no less than twelve in 1949. However, this does seem to have stretched them financially, as an urgent appeal was made in 1953 over the loudspeakers at the game and in the local press for additional financial support.

The presence of their rivals also seems to have put financial pressures on Chippenham Town. A loss of £711 was reported at their annual general meeting in 1951. This amounts to the substantial sum of £20,145 at today’s prices. This was in spite of a donation of £1,000 from the Supporters’ Club and the £1,000 transfer of a player to Plymouth Argyle. Taken together, these sums would amount to around £56,000 at today’s prices, so the underlying loss was £76,000. Admission fees and share of gates brought in £3,184, but this was exceeded by the £3,232 spent on wages for players. (£91,500 at today’s prices). In addition the player-manager was on £905 a year (£25,600 today) and £37 was spent on decorating his house which appears to have been provided rent free.

Following a game online

I am still not well enough to get to the New Windmill Ground (apart from anything else, I can't drive). Recently, the Brakes have suffered setbacks against local rivals (the Bardsmen and the Pilgrims, the latter apparently not being very pleasant). You can't expect to win every game in football, but are the wheels coming off?

It's a strange experience following a game through tweets. Some argued that we were playing well against a resilient Chippenham, others that we were poor and all hope of the title had gone. Strange how negative fans sometimes are about their own team.

So I was heartened by the report in today's Non-League Paper. It said that the Brakes 'were much improved from their disappointing Christmas results ... the hosts were putting together some neat passing football.' And Leamington are still top, albeit on goal difference from Hitchin, but they have played one more game.'

New Year in Leamington in 1917

Once I have recuperated from my knee replacement, I hope to be back at the New Windmill Ground and providing short match reports. Meanwhile, here is the article I wrote for the Stratford Town programme.

Between Christmas and the New Year in 1916, officials met with Warwickshire farmers to discuss how agricultural production could be increased and made more efficient to boost the war effort. What immediately came up was ‘The Drink Question’. The Chairman of the meeting pointed out that Germany had reduced the production of beer to 25 per cent of the total quantity consumed before the war. Alderman Metters said that this ‘was a matter which should be faced manfully and at once if we wanted to win the war.’ Some farmers did not want to curb profitable barley production but it was argued that ‘The great waste of barley in brewing could not possibly be justified.’ What is now often forgotten is that in some parts of the country such as Carlisle the pubs were nationalised to curb drinking and they remained in state ownership until the 1970s.

The 213th Army Troops Company, Royal Engineers, all Leamington men, enjoyed a good Christmas Day menu on the front. For breakfast they had fried bacon and sausages, bread, butter and tea. For dinner (lunch) they had roast pork, boiled potatoes, cabbage, plum pudding, rum sauce, stewed fruit, custard and bread. Tea was bread, butter, cake and jam. Supper was biscuits, cheese, boiled beef, pickles, hot rum and coffee. Presumably, as an engineers’ battalion, they were a little way back from the front line.

A more sombre note was provided by news of local men killed in action. Private Hepton of Portland Street had been employed at the Leamington Skating Rink and left a wife. Corporal Avis had been the chauffeur to the Vicar of Stoneleigh and was well known as an athlete. Writing to his mother, his commanding officer said, ‘It may be some small consolation to you to know that your son suffered no pain, being killed instantaneously by a machine gun bullet through the brain.’ At the end of these reports, the Courier mentioned that they were selling a special series of naval and military In Memorial cards at their offices.

On a more cheerful note, what was described as ‘good old English pleasure’ took place at the Town Hall on New Year’s Day in the form of a party for 200 local children organised by the Mayor and Mayoress. The large hall had what was described as a ‘beautiful illuminated Christmas tree – bright with red., gold and silver’ on the stage. Punch and Judy started the party. They then played games such as ‘Fox and Geese’, ‘Kiss in the Ring’ and ‘Oranges and Lemons’. Cakes were then made available in the council chamber, but without icing because of the war. Tales told by ‘Roma the Storyteller’ were followed by musical chairs. A beautiful sleigh, designed by the manager of the Theatre Royal, was then drawn in by three teddy bears. On the sleigh were Father Christmas and a fairy queen. Each child received a silver medal with the borough arms. A conjuror was next on the programme and then, by popular demand, there was another session of musical chairs. The event concluded with everyone joining hands to sign Auld Lang Syne and the National Anthem. This was some party and, as the Courier observed, ‘one in which it was good to be for a few hours and forget the world of sorrow and suffering.’