First home defeat of 1974/5 season

‘AP manager Jimmy Knox was an angry and disappointed man on Saturday afternoon as he watched his side tumble to the first defeat of the season,’ 1-2 at home to Merthyr Tydfil in September 1974.  ‘And although Merthyr deserve full credit for their talented, positive display, it is hard to argue with Knox’s caustic summary, “We made it easy for them.”  

Brakes were subdued and sluggish, especially in midfield where Micky Boot never got going and Bobby Horne was unable to repeat the bustling form he showed against Witney last week.   The strikers were thus denied good service – and they seldom looked capable of carving their own openings.  Mick Keeley was caught in possession all too often; Ian Stewart produced his usual admirable work rate, but failed to put away two good chances, and Ivor Talbot scored a superb goal, but fell short of his true potential.

One has to look to the back for any AP heroes.  And here at least there was rich consolation for Knox in the splendid displays of Roger Brown and Tony Bowden.   The two big stoppers have already forged a fine understanding, and but for them Brakes would have been completely swamped.   Brown missed nothing in the air, Bowden’s covering was first class, and both players used the ball sensibly.  Above all, they showed the heart and commitment that was in such short supply among their colleagues. 

Brakes should have been inspired by the 20^th minute goal that put them in front.   The goal was as good as it was unexpected.   Stewart’s determined challenge saw full back Allan Smith lose possession on the edge of the area – and Talbot pounced on the ball to drive a fierce shot just inside the post.   A fine move between Keeley and Lee gave Stewart a sight of goal minutes later, but he pulled his shot well wide. 

 And Merthyr, who showed a refreshing willingness to attack throughout the game, finally claimed their deserved equaliser minutes before half time.    A free kick was flicked on and former Welsh international Barrie Jones calmly headed over the unprotected Dave Jones.    Nick Deaney was within inches of making it 2-1 after the interval.   And Allan Sullivan hit the winner minutes later with a magnificent goal..   Slipping past John Brady 40 yards out, Sullivan strode through the angle of the box and left Jones standing with a glorious drive into the far corner. 

Horne forced Richard Morse to an excellent save; the goalkeeper dived well to hold a snap shot from Dennis Taylor; and Stewart again shot wide after Rosser had misjudged a high punt from Dave Jones,   But it was Bowden who came closest to snatching a point, picking uo a throw from Lee and weaving past four men before he was finally blocked.

There was a full programme of football in the Leamington League.    ‘Champions Leamington Celtic triumphed 5-4 at Bishops Itchington – a vital win against a side who should prove one of their fiercest rivals for the title this season.  The game was full of entertaining football with neither side able to relax for a second.  Bobby Phillips, Whittle Wanderers’ close season capture, collected a smooth hat trick in the 7-2 demolition of Radford United.  Another hat trick man was Micky Palllis of Itchington Sports, whose smartly taken treble gave the Premier League newcomers a 4-2 win at Leamington Southend.’

Youth Cup offsets League Cup disappointment for Brakes

AP Leamington had won the Southern League Cup in 1973/4 but went out in the first round to Witney Town in September 1974.   The first leg was played at home and ended in a 2-2 draw.   The Courier presciently noted, ‘The Brakes will have to improve their finishing if they are to overcome Witney in the second game next Tuesday.   Leamington were the most impressive side throughout with rugged Witney making clear they were only interested in containing Leamington.   But the visitors took the lead with two opportunist goals against the run of play, and a touch of desperation crept into Brakes’ game before Ivor Talbot finally equalised.   

AP went close several times before going in front after 30 minutes.   Talbot shipped over a corner, Adrian Stewart met it with a splendid header, and Mick Keeley added the final touch.   Town drew level just before the break with a 30-yard free kick converted with a thundering shot and Witney snatched a shock lead just after the interval.  Brakes threw everything forward after this and eventually squared the game in the 68^th minute.’

Brakes lost 3-1 at Witney.  ‘This depressing result aroused all the predictable emotions in the AP camp – anger, sadness, frustration.  But the overriding reaction was sheer disbelief.   For whatever the scoreline suggests, the better side did not win.  Witney again looked a very limited outfit.  They were crude at the back, unimaginative in midfield, and merely hard-working up front.   But the Oxfordshire side boast two priceless assets that earned them a flatteringly high position last term and proved too much for the cup holders this season.  Their noisy enthusiastic supporters kept them alive in the first half when AP were threatening to run riot.   And in the last ten minute, they produced two brilliant goals out of the blue.   

As in the Windmill first leg last week, the goals were in complete contrast to the general quality of Witney’s play.  But they made all the difference, and provided Brakes with a painful lesson – skilful approach play means nothing if it is not coupled with positive finishing. ‘ Brakes went ahead in the first half through Ivor Talbot ‘who cracked a low left-footed shot just inside the far post.   It still looked AP’s game for the first 15 minutes of the second half’ but then Witney levelled, going ahead in the 86^th minute.   ‘Witney then fell back on their Windmill tactics, blithely booting the ball out of the ground at every opportunity’ but managed to score a third goal.

‘AP Leamington earned a place in the second round of the FA Youth Cup with a 2-1 win against Hednesford.   The Windmill juniors attacked eagerly in the opening minutes, and swept ahead when Hednesford were slow to move to a Rob Swain centre.  Paul Coleman calmly steered an unchallenged header into the corner of the net.  AP had chances to increase their lead, but Hednesford hit back strongly and equalised ten minutes from time. 

 Brakes  refused to give up the fight, however.  And they snatched victory when Malcolm McGreavy chased a seemingly harmless ball and hooked home a splendid opportunist goal.   This was a very encouraging performance by the new AP squad, and they are in good spirits for their second qualifying round tie against Nuneaton Borough, at the Windmill later this month.’

Brakes strikers impress

Brakes were at home to Bromsgrove Rovers In the Southern League in August 1974.  ’Mick Keeley and Adrian Stewart are two strikers cast from completely different moulds.   But they are set to emerge as one of the most devastating combinations in the Southern League.  Their partnership, forged at Rugby Town, developed at Nuneaton Borough and reformed by Jimmy Knox in the close season, was perfectly summed up by the 68^th minute goal that put Brakes in front. 

Stewart, a dashing, irrepressible young powerhouse, tore down the left touchline and, without breaking speed, clipped over a perfect centre.  Keeley, as ever, shielded the ball beautifully, turned past full back Jamie Tumba, before the full back knew what was happening and calmly slid a low shot wide of Chris Hooper.  Ir was a heartening sight for every AP supporter.  For if Keeley and Stewart can sharpen their complementary skills, no defence will be safe.   They could have shared half a dozen goals on Tuesday night as AP took the game to their rivals. 

But although Brakes were always the more inventive side, their build ups were hurried and jerky, lacking the fluency that should come in the next few weeks.   The twin strikers were well supported by Ivor Talbot, looking happier in his favourite left wing role.  He was always ready to take men on, and frequently dragged two Bromsgrove defenders to the flank.   Steve Lee was again the pick of the midfield men, constantly breaking up threatening Bromsgrove moves.

But Micky Boot was also impressive on his return to the side, adding a welcome streak of aggression to his polished ball skills.   Stewart, Keeley and Bobby Horne all went close in the first half, with Chris Hooper pulling off a great double save from Stewart after the centre forward had pivoted brilliantly to fool the defence.

Rovers were restricted to long range shots, the best of which was a 35-yard snorter from Brian Kenning that almost took Dave Jones by surprise.  Kenning showed his shooting power again after the break with a glorious free kick from the left wing.   The ball was streaking for the top corner until Jones flew across the goal to deflect it round the post.  

 But Brakes were looking more and more confident and Stewart twice reduced the Rovers defence to complete chaos before finally setting up the vital goal.  Bromsgrove had an equaliser disallowed minutes later when centre half Alan Parsons steered Tombs’ cross under the bar but the referee awarded a free kick for pushing.  And Brakes made certain five minutes from time when Talbot weaved through on the left.  His first cross was blocked by John Wood but he quickly pushed the rebound through to Keeley, who again netted with nonchalant ease. 

Bromsgrove, beaten by AP in the Southern League Cup final last year, went down fighting.  And they snatched a consolation goal in the dying seconds when Parsons again rose mightily to reach Keith Partridge’s corner, and Alan Craddock scrambled the ball home.’   Following Jimmy Knox’s appeal for fans to support the side, the attendance of 382 was disappointing.

 

 

Knox appeals to fans to turn up

Previewing the 1974/5 season, ‘AP Leamington manager Jimmy Knoc is convinced his side can fulfil their reach potential - if they get the support of the Leamington public.  “I don’t believe in making rash promises or predictions,” said the rugged Scot, “but I am sure we can build on the success we achieved last season.  The lads proved they have got what it takes when we won the Southern League Cup.  And we can do better.  

But I would be far more confident if a big crowd turned up at the Windmill for our first home game against Kings Lynn.  Atmosphere makes all the difference in the world to players at every level of the game.  If the lads get a good crowd behind them, they will respond.   I make this appeal to the fans of Leamington.  Come and have a look at us.  I think you’ll find it worthwhile.”

 Brakes’ gates have certainly been depressing in recent years – and the situation could rapidly reach crisis point.   The whole future of non-league football has been thrown into the melting pot and clubs like AP are in danger of being left out in the cold.   Brakes are at the crossroads.  And this season could very well decide if they are to reach new heights or dwindle into obscurity.  I feel sure that Knox’s current squad can achieve its immediate objective = promotion to the Premier Division of the Southern League.  If they do – and they can attract the missing fans back to the Windmill – their future is assured. 

Knox received an unexpected pre-season boost this week when midfield star Micky Boot reported for training.   Boot said he was quitting professional football at the end of last season = he was bitterly disappointed to lose his place in the Brakes line-up after breaking a leg in January.  But he has clearly changed his mind – and Kmox is delighted to have him back in the AP squad.  “I’ve always had tremendous admiration for Micky’s skills,” said the Windmill chief, “and it would be a great boost for us if he could recapture his enthusiasm for the game.   He’ll have to work hard – but he’ll be given every chance to prove himself.”

 Having lost Jimmy Goodfellow, Keith Shrimpston and Tom Sweenie, Knox was looking for players to strengthen his midfield department.  Any worries on that score will be greatly reduced if Boot can settle down at Leamington.   Boot now has another chance, perhaps his last, to confirm his playing pedigree.   For some time, his undoubted talent has been constrained by a suspect temperament.  Perhaps the Windmill crowd will soon be treated to regular displays of the skill that made him a teenage star at Arsenal.’

‘AP Leamington thrashed Nuneaton Borough for the second time in six months on Saturday, claiming the Sir Jack Scamp cup in a 3-0 win.  The margin was the same as at Manor Park in March, when Brakes destroyed Borough’s Southern League Cup chances with a deadly three-goal burst in the dying minutes. But this time, AP wasted no time in humbling their Premier Division rivals.  They snatched the initiative with two goals in the first eight minutes.’   Both the opening goals were scored by Neil Armstrong, ‘an unpredictable player but very effective on his day.’  Keeley scored a third goal before half time, but the Brakes midfield faded in the second half.

Knox faced team building challenges 50 years ago

As he faced the 1974/5 season AP manager Jimmy Knox had to deal with ‘some close season blows in his team building plans with three key players deciding to resign.  Midfield man Micky Boot has decided to give up professional soccer to play in a local league; Jimmy Goodfellow has retired and leading striker Norman Fowler has left for business reasons.   New signings include former Highgate striker Mick Keeley, who has moved from Nuneaton Borough.’

 One response was to field a youth side with an under 19 trial taking place at the Windmill Ground.  ‘The young Brakes, to be managed by former St. Peter’s Celtic playing chief Ted Forde, have been accepted by the Birmingham County Floodlit League.   And the Leamington club has made it clear that boys willing to support the team in mid-week will be free to join their own clubs at weekends.’

At the beginning of August fans had the chance to see ‘Jimmy Knox’s new look squad entertain Stafford Rangers.   With Keith Hampton leaving the Windmill to join Cinderford Town, Knox was waiting for one signature – that of centre half Doug Griffiths.   Knox may well call up Chris Hine, s starter for Valley Sports last season.    He said, “Chris is a very promising young player and he will be given the chance to show what he can do in the pre-season friendlies.”’

‘Ivor Talbot, the local boy who made good with AP Leamington last season, has been given a vital new midfield role this term.   Talbot played in this position in the warm-up friendlies against Stafford and Alcester – and manager Jimmy Knox was delighted with his displays.  “He looked as if he had been playing there for years,” said Knox.  “He’ll open the season in that positon.”

 If Talbot can establish himself in his new role, he will solve Knox’s biggest problem – the gap left by the departure of former First Division stars Jimmy Goodfellow, Tom Sweenie and Micky Boot.     Talbot will play alongside Brakes’ skipper Steve Lee.  And Dave Scriggins, the close season signing from Enderby, will probably occupy the third midfield berth.   With Talbot playing deeper, Knox will rely on Neil Armstrong to supply the wing service for twin strikers Mick Keeley and Adrian Stewart. ‘

‘While the forward positions seem to be more or less settled, there will obviously be a keen battle for places in the back four.   Last season, Knox tried Tony Bowden, Ernie Wilkinson and Doug Griffiths in various combinations at the heart of the defence.   Now there is a fourth candidate in big Roger Brown, whose power in the air was a feature of the Stafford match.    Knox’s final perming will certainly be one of the most interesting – and important decisions of the season,’

‘Brakes were given a good workout by Stafford, although neither side managed to score.  Stewart beat three men in a fine run before shooting wide; Keeley forced Arnold into an excellent save; and Armstrong shot over from Talbot’s finally judged cross.   The midweek match at Alcester was, in contrast, a gentle canter.   Goals by Lee (2), Stewart (2), Keeley and Talbot (penalty), put paid to the Midland Combination side.’

How it all started

 Promotion from the Midland Combination, Division 2

Holleran's game plan to win

Paul Holleran told the Non-League Paper that Leamington will go to Telford tomorrow with a game plan to win.  The team are 'full of verve'.  He aims to 'upset the odds against an expectant home crowd.'

Holleran said: Telford have been the best team in the second half of the season by far, and going into the season we'd have been second best to them in terms of squad balance and depth.'

'There was a lot of upheaval and rebuilding over the summer,  It's difficult with so many teams in the area. We kept a few of the players on pro deals, and added four or five youth to the suqad, but after the second game in which we conceded five at Coalville, I knew it was going to be a difficult task this season.'

Recalling the victory over Redditch, Holleran admits: 'Redditch were on top in the second half.  At first we tried to go through them, then around them, then evenrually we brought on Tyrone Barnett and went over them.  He did a great job at that.'

Knox;s quiet revolution

Leamington’s 1973/4 season was reviewed by Ken Widdowes in April 1974.  ‘They savoured the champagne times by following that semi-final win over Borough to clinch the League Cup.  They did it by a comparatively easy win over Bromsgrove at the Windmill Ground after slipping a goal behind on the first leg.  Now promotion is the aim.

 Knox and his trainer Bob Ward have worked a quiet revolution at AP in one season.   There is no reason why they cannot improve on that.  For after a steady start to the League campaign last August, they had a mid-season slump before making a determined bid to catch leaders Stourbridge and Burton.  

A seasoned observer of Leamington’s fortunes over the past years told me: “Knox has made incredible progress for the club, and though they dropped some simple points, the team spirit remained fabulous.  Jimmy Goodfellow was a revelation and Norman Foster, who started the season virtually as third choice striker, netted 38 goals in all competitions.”

AP were dealt a blow this week with the news that Goodfellow has now retired.  He feels the travelling from his Leicester home is getting too much and wants to spend more time with his family.  That leaves a yawning gap in AP’s set up, but it also gives Mickey Boot the chance to show his true potential.  Boot has missed much of the season with a broken leg, but Goodfellow’s retirement blow will be softened if Boot strikes forn.’

‘If they win tonight’s clash with Tamworth, AP will finish in third spot in the table - and that wlll crown a memorable season.’   Brakes had already had an unfortunate 2-1 defeat at Banbury where they conceded two penalties ‘to give Banbury a win they hardly deserved on the run of play  Leamington had the edge in skill and ideas for most of the game.’

Sadly, ‘A typical end-of-season game saw Tamworth snatch victory against highly-placed AP at Knaresbrook on Saturday night.  The goal was one of the few bright moments in a game of wasted energy by players who were unable to produce any kind of possession football.  Neither side showed any flair or interest in a game watched by one of Tamworth’s lowest gates of the season – 223.   Dennis Walker secured the match winner after 33 minutes when he outpaced gioalkeeper Dave Jones in a chase along the bye-line.  Walker turned quickly and screwed the ball into the far corner of the net before Jones could recover possession.

 There were remarkably few direct shots at goal and neither goalkeeper was tested in a game of small entertainment value.   Leamington displayed a surprising amount of energy, but very little thrust or finish.   Though there was a great deal of midfield activity, there was remarkably very little positive attacking play.   Leamington can feel upset with a performance that was far from impressive.’

Brakes did win the Leamington Charity Invitation Cup with a 4-0 victory over Bermuda WMC, goals from Ivor Talbot, Neil Armstrong, Adrian Stewart and Keith Shrimpston. Stourbridge topped the Division One North table with 69 points, followed by Burton Albion 63, Cheltenham Town 56 and Brakes 54.

Tough-talking Knox delighted with his players

‘Jimmy Knox, tough-talking Scot with the knack of producing football teams from nothing, relaxed after leading AP  Leamington to a Southern League Cup triumph and said “This is only the start.”  And he added., “After this success, there is no reason why we should not get even better next season – and win promotion to the Premier Division.” 

 Knox’s bubbling side completed the execution of Bromsgrove last week to record a comfortable 3-0 win and take the coveted trophy on a 3-1 aggregate.  Knox said: ‘I was mentally shattered after that game. There’s no doubt that when the game was over, it was the best moment since I became a manager.’  And with that behind him – in his first season as manager of the Windmill side- Knox believes his side can go further still.   He told [Ken Widdows]  ‘”We have made great strides this season and we are not going to let it slip back. There is a stack of ability in our side, the players work hard and they have lots of guts.’

‘”We were only 1-0 up at half time on Saturday, I told the lads not to get frustrated, to work at their game and it would come right.  It did – and we finished worthy winners.”  There’s no doubting that judgment.  AP were the better side throughout and limited Bromsgrove to one clear cut chance.   But for the most part AP were in control.    And I doubt if James Goodfellow has had a finer game outside the Football League.  

Goodfellow was my man of the match with his deft flicks and the way he made himself available in both defence and attack. But there were other stars in this startling triumph.  Steve Lee, the skipper, ran and fought and saw off the challenge offered in midfield. Ernie Wilkinson and Tom Bowden held together the back four like a vice.  Ivor Talbot gave his opposite number a gruelling time on the left flank and Keith Shrimpton. In his benefit year, picked up anything loose in front of the defence.’

‘But while the end product did not have the glamour expected of a final it was, for AP, a successful exercise in working together.  There was, of course, disappointment even in success, for less than 1,000 fans turned up to watch the club sail to its greatest hour. It is a problem which has frustrated AP all season. 

But Knoc says: ‘It is something the players are conscious of, but it does not affect them.  They get on with the job of playing football.”   It is a pity AP did not get the support last week.  For the team won a competition which saw the “big” names like Chelmsford, Kettering, Dartford and the like fall by the wayside. 

 Now they have added their name to a trophy that has illustrious past winners.   And It is not an achievement to be taken lightly.  Now it is behind them and the team have the more mundane task of finishing as high as they can in the First Division North. ‘  Knox concluded: ‘” I was appointed to do a job   I told the players I was the judge of ability and they had to work on the pitch.  They gave me that work – and I have been delighted

Brakes win Southern League Cup for first time

Brakes were in the Southern League cup final for the first time in April 1974.   The first leg was away to Bromsgrove Rovers.  ‘After losing 1-0 in the first leg of the Southern League Cup final at Bromsgrove on Saturday, AP Leamington now look to have a good chance in the return leg this weekend.   Despite being away from home, Leamington were unlucky not to score, particularly in the last minute of the match when they had the home defence in a terrible tangle.  Two shots were cleared off the line, but the ball just would not go into the net.

 Steve Lee was always prominent midfield for the visitors, and after a shaky first half Ernie Wilkinson came to the fore in their defence.  Bromsgrove’s goal came at a critical time, five minutes before the interval, and no one could argue with the quality of it.   Bromsgrove’s top scorer Alan Craddock scored with a perfect volley.  However, this was the only goal the home side could muster, giving Leamington, who beat them 3-0 earlier in the season, a good chance next Saturday.’

‘AP Leamington lifted the Southern League Cup for the first time with an impressive display against Bromsgrove at the Windmill Ground today.   Steve Lee brought the scores level on aggregate after 18 minutes – but In the second half AP dictated matters and went in front with an own goal from Bromsgrove full back Tombs before Neil Armstrong settled the matter with a third goal. 

Brakes went close in the first minute.  Brady swung over a centre from a free kick, goalkeeper Hooper could only push the ball out, and Shrimpton hit a cracking drive which Hooper did well to save.   Bromsgrove forced four corners in quick succession before Bowden cleared the danger.   Craddock wasted a good chance when the AP defence was caught out by a long ball and then Horne fired over when AP hit back.

AP were neater in their build up and after 18 minutes they grabbed a fine goal to put the score level on aggregate.   Goodfellow took a corner on the right and Lee rose high to bullet a header past Hooper.   Bromsgrove were using the wind with long balls deep into the AP half and, after Jones had palmed away a cross, Talbot and Goodfellow combined to clear AP lines.

Play was mainly confined to midfield where Goodfellow, Shrimpton and Lee were doing an effective job for AP but Bromsgrove went close when Craddock flashed a left foot drive wide of the post.  Then Jones dived to save from Selby.   It took a fine save from Jones minutes after the restart to keep the score sheet blank.  From Forrest’s free kick Ball send in a powerful header which Jones flicked away.   

AP hit back, but Hooper brought off a magnificent save when Horne hammered a great shot from 20 yards.  But a minute later, AP went ahead on aggregate.   The ball was cleared out of defence by AP and Tombs, attempting to find his own goalkeeper, lobbed the ball into his own net when there was no danger.  Armstrong scored a third for AP after 70 minutes.’

Brakes: Jones, Taylor, Bowden, Brady, Bowden, Wilkinson, Shrimpton, Goodfellow, Lee, Armstrong, Horne, Talbot.   Sub: Foster.

When Harbury Lane was lit up

 Getting the floodlights installed were an important step in the story of the born again Brakes:

Brakes unbeaten in two games 50 years ago

In March 1974 ‘AP Leamington’s defeat of bottom-of-the-table Dunstable was one of the less impressive of their 14 Southern League victories this season.   Enjoying overwhelming midfield mastery, Brakes spent the greater part of the game in their opponents’ half, but on a lively pitch their forwards seemed strangely out of touch.     Few really testing shots were directed at the Dunstable goal and in the end it took goals from a couple of defenders to settle the issue. 

Brakes’ centre half Tony Bowden opened the scoring with a header from an opener in the 43^rd minute, but five minutes into the second half Dunstable broke away  to equalise through Alan Davies who was unmarked in the penalty area.   AP kept pushing forward but they were condemned to a frustrating 20 minutes as they sought to break through a packed Dunstable defence, whose spoiling tactics included the frequent exploitation of the offside trap.

Adrian Stewart finally broke the deadlock in the 72^nd minute when he sprinted away on the left and centred the ball to Norman Foster, who back-headed into the net.  Five minutes from the end, Stewart was again in the picture when he slipped the Dunstable defence and passed inside to Ernie Wilkinson, a back four defender who had raced upfield.  Wilkinson found himself with no one to beat but the goalkeeper and took full advantage of the opportunity to score with a well-placed 15-yard drive.

Brakes were next away to Bury Town: AP were fifth in the table and their opponent s fifth from bottom.  ‘King’s Road on Saturday was no place for goalkeepers.  Right from the start, Bury’s Davies – so impressive for most of the season – showed that, for him, it was going to be one of those days.  He jumped about like a cat on hot bricks, scarcely gathered a shot cleanly, mistimed numerous dashes from his goal line, and altogether conveyed an air of impending disaster. 

 Leamington almost grabbed the lead after nine minutes.   Davies came out from a cross to Lee and completely missed his punch.  Luckily for him, Turner was on hand to charge down a shot from Talbot.   Generally Leamington looked the more impressive side.  Stewart was the live wire in the Leamington attack and he had a number of intriguing tussles with Bury’s big centre half Tony Smith.   It was no surprise when Leamington finally went ahead after 30 minutes.   From a right wing cross by Goodfellow, centre half Bowden headed the ball to the far post and Talbot pushed it home from close range.’

‘Strangely enough it was Davies’ opposite number Dave Jones who made the most serious error of the afternoon.   With 20 minutes left, Jones advanced from his goal to cut off David Smith’s cross from the right, missed the ball completely, and Barry Gray coolly took advantage to score.   Until then Leamington had been the more impressive of two ordinary looking sides. 

Now it was Bury’s turn to pile on the pressure and they had a couple of chances to record their first win since January 5^th.   But overall a draw was a fair result.   Leamington surprisingly relegated 27-goal striker Norman Foster to substitute.   Lee missed three good chances and had his name taken for a foul on Tony Smith.’ 

Holleran Milestone Fuels Fire for More

Following his appearance on Football Focus there is a featured interview in The Non-League Paper with Paul Holleran this morning.

Here a few excerpts.  'Being honest, it is a tough job - I am getting older and the players are getting younger.  I am 53.  You do have moments when you think "Can I keep doing this?" but the players and the fans keep me driving on at the moment.'

'Even at this level you don't stop.  Regardless of whether you are Jurgen Klopp or Paul Holleran, it is relentless, and I do 50 hours per week on top of that as well which I imagine is a bit different to Jurgen.'

'You keep ticking along and maybe become part of the furniture - it is a bit like with your wife, you begin to like them, they begin to like you.   [Not sure what Mrs. H would say about that].  The fans have always been good with me, as the years have gone by, the bond has certainly grown.'

'It does cross your mind as to whether you can do it any more, there is no doubt about that.  When we got relegated last season I felt I was the best person to stabilise the club and get it back on track.  It has been a real challenge in a tough league this season, we have had to rebuild and I am looking forward to the last few games.'

Brakes battle to win away point against Burton

AP Leamington faced table topping Burton Albion, now a League One side, away in mid-March 1974 in a match in which the inactions of the referee were a focus of attention for media commentators (note that the report quoted is written from a Burton perspective).  ‘Burton Albion dropped another away point in their quest for the championship of the Southern League First Division North when they were unable to break through a tough uncompromising AP Leamington on defence.’

‘Phil Annable starts a week’s suspension today following his dismissal from the field towards the end of a Southern League game at Wellingborough earlier in the season, and after an amazing scene in the Leamington penalty area just before the interval he, and the Brake’s Foster, could count themselves very lucky not to be sent off again. 

The incident came after tempers frayed following several niggling fouls from both sides.  Buckley broke down the left and centred.   Former Albion keeper Dave Jones, who gave an impressive display, failed to collect the cross and both Naylor and Annable at the far post raced in to grab the loose ball.  Annable just got to it, Naylor left the race falling to the ground with a leg injury and Foster tangled with Annable.  

The first blow came from the Leamington player but he came out on the worst side of the deal.  He recovered after treatment.  Incredibly, the referee took no action against Foster or Annable and started the game with a free kick to Leamington. Naylor, who had taken a lot of stick from the opposition, gamely soldiered on in search of the elusive goal.   

Fortunately, before and after this brief period, play had been more constructive with Burton always in command and pushing forward relentlessly against a Leamington side prepared to pull everyone back and to give away a free kick if threatened, but Albion usually so creative from these set piece situations could not capitalise on them.

Right on half time, Wilkinson blocked a goal bound header from the diving Naylor after a hard low centre from Buckley.   Buckley continued to give the Leamington defence a lot of trouble and in the 70^th minute Lee was booked for a foul on him.   Just before this, Buckley slotted the ball to Brown, but the advancing Jones dived heavily at his feet to collect.   Then from another Corrigan centre the visiting keeper was deceived by the flight of the ball and Buckley was able to get in a header but Bowden managed to hook it clear. 

Albion now had the crowd right behind them.  A loudspeaker message had announced that Stourbridge were trailing 3-1 at Tamworth.   Albion battled on but in the packed Leamington area had all of their efforts blocked. 

 Then at the other end Leamington almost snatched both points when they were gifted a great chance by a dreadful back pass.  Foster nipped in, but Robinson dived to save.   Burton had held a special training session in the morning before the game and this was the first time they failed to score all season.’   Burton remained four points clear at the top of the table with Brakes twelve points behind in seventh place.

Leamington: Jones, Taylor, Brady, Bowden, Wilkinson, Shrimpton, Armstrong, Lee, Talbot. Foster, Goodfellow.   Sub: Stewart.

Cup success for Brakes

Southern League Cup action was at the forefront for AP Leamington fifty years ago. Facing Waterlooville at home ‘Brakes won this hard-fought Southern League Cup tie more easily than the score [1-0] suggests.  They were much the better side and with more finishing luck could have quite eaxily reached the last four with several goals in hand.  

Waterlooville, leaders of the southern section, opened strongly and for a time presented their hosts with considerable problems.  But Jimmy Goodfellow effectively killed their resistance with his 30^th minute with his headed goal and Brakes gained almost total control.  The Hampshire side did come back during a furious late assault.

 But the home defence stood firm and Dave Avery’s header wide of the near post was the closest Waterlooville came to forcing a replay.  With Steve Lee, Keith Shrimpton and Goodfellow gaining a hold in midfield, AP spent most of the game going forward and they should have added to their lead.  Norman Foster saw a terrific right foot shot cannon from the bar; Neal Armstrong headed across the face of an open goal; and Lee was slow to react to a clear chance when the ball bounded loose in the penalty area.’

Brakes then went to Nuneaton Borough for the semi-final.   ‘Delighted Jimmy Knox summed up AP Leamington’s humbling of Nuneaton Borough yesterday “We wanted to win – they expected to.”  And that’s not a bad assessment from the AP manager, who takes the club into the final of the Southern League Cup for the first time in their history.

  For AP ran, and fought, and harassed their Premier Division opponents into total submission in a colourless semi-final at Manor Park.  And after wearing down Borough with sheer determination, they struck a three goal blast in the last seven minutes.

  Goal No.1 came in the 84^th minute when Ivor Talbot was given the freedom of the pitch to slam in a 35-yarder while Borough’s defence stood and watched.  Goal No.2 came five minutes later when Talbot again did the damage.  He robbed Kirk Stephens on the halfway line, ran on to have his effort half-saved by goalkeeper Keith Ball and Neil Armstrong tapped in a simple goal.  Goal No.3 came a minute into injury time. And what a shocker for Borough!  Ray Bridgett brought Armstrong down a few yards from the by-line over 20 yards out.   And Steve Lee cheekily scored direct from the kick!’

‘It was no less than AP deserved, for they gave Borough’s tame attack little scope; snuffed out the midfield and looked sharper in attack.   My man of the match was Steve Lee, whose promptings from the middle of the park proved too much for Borough.  But AP also had in Ernie Wilkinson, Dennis Taylor, Tony Bowden and John Brady four defenders who were in control of their job.’

Shell shocked Nuneaton supremo Geoff Coleman said ‘there will be no drastic steps taken.  Coleman’s words will comfort his players who cannot be other than shocked by their own performance.  For without taking anything away from A.P., who played exactly to manager Jimmy Knox’s plan, Borough were tragically under par.   They showed none of the fight and tenacity that took them through a run of nine games without defeat.’

Brakes win in 1974, but coverage is grudging

In February 1974 ‘Weakened AP got the result they desperately wanted agsinst Merthyr Tydfil – but it was a close call. An uninspired first half saw AP Leamington spend most of the time pushing forward against a packed Merthyr defence.   The home side were first to threaten when Lee and Talbot linked to put Stewart clear.  But the centre forward was only able to direct his shot into the side netting. 

Both teams were having difficulty in keeping a footing on the saturated surface and mistakes were plentiful.   When Wilkinson got in a tangle he presented Merthyr winger Jerratt with a shooting opportunity.  Only four minutes remained when Ivor Talbot and Trevor Hubbard combined to give Adrian Stewart the ball 15 yards out and the centre forward turned quickly and beat Dilwyn.   Otherwise, the scrappy game produced little in the way of finishing action. 

Both defences put up determined barriers and most of the play was contained in a crowded midfield.   Merthyr had the game’s outstanding performer in form Welsh international Barrie Jones.   His class stood out.  But AP boasted the greater work rate and Stewart’s goal was just about deserved on the run of play.’

‘Tamworth slithered and slumped to defeat’ against AP Leamington in the League Cup.  Presumably fair minded local reporter Allan Bates referred to ‘this match in the mud at Kettlebrook on Sunday when a poor AP Leamington side were just good enough to progress to the next round of the Southern League Cup.   [I have rarely read such a one sided and grudging report].

Conditions mitigated against good football, and neither side were able to master them, rarely able to string together more than two consecutive passes.   In Tamworth’s defence, it should be appreciated that they had played on Saturday afternoon and that their four on loan players were ineligible.   The first half was mainly controlled by Leamington, but despite their territorial advantage, the scores were level at half time.   

In the second session, Tamworth came more into the game, but got caught at the back when Leamington scored the winner.  Leamington went ahead after only two minutes play.   The goal followed some untidy play around the Tamworth penalty area.   Tamworth failed to clear on the Leamington right and Armstrong crossed for Talbot to beat Richards.  Their lead was short lived and Tamworth equalised six minutes later.   It was mainly a defensive battle for the home side from then on, with Leamington failing to turn their chances into goals.   Little effort was needed to keep Leamington at bay.   

Disaster struck the home side after 71 minutes when Leamington went ahead again.   Defensively a three against two situation developed which allowed Lee to put in a shot that Richards could only parry.   Agonisingly the ball trickled towards goal and would have passed wide but for Armstrong getting a boot to it almost level with the post.  The fight continued with the home side still pushing forward, but a goal would not come.’  AP Leamington: Jones, Taylor, Brady, Bowden, Wilkinson, Shrimpton, Armstrong, Lee, Talbot, Foster, Goodfellow.  Sub: Hubbard.   Attendance: 313.

 

Day of disappointment

Private Eye sometimes features Neasden FC who play in the North Circular Relegation League in needle matches against Dollis Hill.  Managed by Ron Knee, they are owned by a self-service laundry magnate.  The supporters are Sid and Doris Bonkers.

Their Suffolk equivalent arrived at Your Co-op Community Stadium yesterday under the surnames of Lamb and Mutton, equipped with a leg of lamb to present to the referee and were in loud voice throughout the match.

Apparently the referee is an experienced official, but having denied us a penalty, he gave one of the softest I have seen to the visitors.   Even the lino on the car park side more or less admitted that his decision-making was poor.

Hawkins made a great save from the penalty, but their admittedly excellent keeper saved ours in the second half.

This defeat brings to an effective end any hope of automatic promotion and reduces our chance of a play off place.  You need to score goals to win matches.

What particularly irritated me was that I didn't think the Marketmen were actually that good for a table topping side.  But in the second half they forced us back into the last third while our midfield once again went awol even after the arrival of the 'General'.   Inevitably they scored, indeed we had seen it coming at half time.

Those in the car park stand were left with an exchange of views with charm merchant Ingram who missed the penalty.

I am all for our board being prudent, but over the summer they may need to take a risk.

Thanks for featuring me in the programme.

'Straight talking' Knox clamps down on dissent

Disciplinary troubles beset Brakes in January 1974.  ‘Two key AP Leamington defenders were suspended this week and manager Jimmy Knox immediately announced that he will fine any player who gets into disciplinary trouble.  “Injuries are a bad enough problem,” says Knox, “and I cannot afford to lose men for a couple of weeks at a time because of suspensions.  “I have made it clear to my players that in future anyone who gets himself into the book will have to answer to me.”

The two men currently serving a two match ban are reliable left back John Brady and close marking pivot Tony Bowden.  Both players received three cautions last season to earn the suspensions and £4 fine.  AP have had six players booked his term – five of the cautions resulting from dissent.   This has prompted Knox to clamp down.  “Players can sometimes be cautioned for foul play when forced into retaliation in the heat of the moment.   But they should be able to keep their mouths closed to officials.”

Knox is pleased to have Bill Thomas and Ernie Wilson on hand to replace Brady and Bowden.  Both played in Sunday’s disappointing [Senior Cup] 1-0 defeat at Darlaston and earned high praise from their manager.  In fact, Knox is delighted to have a powerful squad at the Windmill Ground – a vital factor as he pulls the strings to jet the Brakes back to respectability.

 The straight talking Scot has been with the club for less than 10 months but thinks that considerable progress has been made.  “The first couple of months were a nightmare.   But we are really buzzing at the moment and I think that everyone connected with the club has reason to feel some pride.   The spirit is fantastic.  I always thought that Rugby Town’s comradeship was tremendous – we are now at the same level at Leamington and the response of the players has been outstanding.”’

February started well with an away win at King’s Lynn.  ‘AP Leamington deserved to chalk up their fifth away victory of the season.    In the first half, AP goalkeeper Dave Jones had such good covering in front of him that only once during the game was he called to pull out his best.   That was just on half time, following a free kick from outside the penalty area.   The shot from Brooks, after Wignall had teed up the ball for him, had Jones leaping across his goal to pull off the best save of the match in turning the ball round the post.

 Both Leamington goals resulted from defensive lapses, and AP forwards deserved all the credit for making the best use of them.   Their first came in the 49^th minute when Lynn right back Richardson misjudged the bounce of the ball.  Norman Foster challenged, sidestepped the advancing goalkeeper just inside the penalty area ad fired into the goal.   Their second, in the 74^th minute, came when Procter intercepted a bad back pass.    The goalkeeper dived to block the sheet at Procter’s feet.   But Neil Armstrong was on hand to push the resultant loose ball into the empty net.    Lee of Leamington was booked for a foul.’

Penalty save denies Brakes

AP Leamington faced what was thought to be ‘a difficult game’ against sixth placed Bromsgrove Rovers in December 1973.  ‘Jimmy Knox drafted in former Rugby Town striker Adrian Stewart at centre forward having signed him from Nuneaton Borough the night before the game.   The new player was quickly into action with a couple of neat passes and after 10 minutes he helped make a goal for Norman Foster.   Bobby Horne put over a low cross and Stewart challenged the goalkeeper to leave Foster with a simple tap in for his 19^th goal of the season.   Talbot then put Stewart through with a delightful ball and Hooper was forced to make a fine diving save. 

Rovers, who were playing in front of new manager Tom Wainwright for the first time, showed neat touches but their attack lacked bite and they offered little threat.   Most of the play was centred around the Bromsgrove goal and with more aggression AP could have stretched their lead.   Talbot was always quick to get in a shot, however, and Hooper was kept busy.

Foster rammed home his second goal within a minute of the re-start, beating Hooper to Lee’s cross.  Soon afterwards he should have completed his hat-trick but made a hash of meeting Stewart’s centre.  Stewart then got up well to head against a post, as AP continued to press forward.   Bobby Horne was rewarded for an unselfish game with the final goal.  Bromsgrove were a bitter disappointment.   The wonder of it was that Brakes only managed three goals, but it was a comfortable stroll for stylish AP Leamington who now have their sights on promotion from Division 1 North.’

AP Leamington boss Jimmy Knox took ‘his full squad of 18 players to Bletchley for another joust against a club in the top half of the Division 1 table.   There are no injury problems.  Leamington made most of the early running but they found the Bletchley defence in good form.  Adrian Stewart managed to squeeze in a shot after three minutes but he fired the ball well wide of the Bletchley goal.  Leamington forced three corners in the first ten minutes and from the third Norman Foster sent a fierce header flashing wide of the post.

Bletchley hit back immediately with Jeff Weeks nodding the ball down into a crowded goalmouth.  Bobby Horne came back to cut out the threat.  Mike Bailey, making his final appearance for Bletchley before moving to Wales broke though on the left and crossed but Weeks’ header fell safely into the hands of goalkeeper Dave Garrett.  The first worthwhile effort came after 15 minutes when Lines skimmed the top of the Leamington bar with a tremendous shot from 25 yards.

 Bletchley opened the scoring in the second half when Doug Griffin deflected a cross from Lines into his own net.   Leamington fought hard to get back into the game but some desperate defensive work by Bletchley kept them at bay.    

Brakes were back on level terms after 11 minutes when Foster slipped the ball past Weeks and Bletchley defender Graham Wear helped it over the line in an attempt to clear.   Goalkeeper Dennis Wells robbed Leamington of a win with a brilliant penalty save after Adrian Stewart was floored In the box.   Wells came to Bletchley’s rescue by pushing John Brady’s fiercely hit spot kick over the bar.’

'Holleran aiming to make it a lucky 13'

Paul Holleran thinks that a new stadium is key to Leamington's future.  In an interview with The Non-League Paper he stated: 'I think that Leamington's ideal would be to get the stadium through and then they would have the incomes streams and resources that they might need to then say we can go into that league and compete.'

After the pain of relegation last season, Holleran says that he has enjoyed life back in Step 3 as the club relish the chance to regroup and prepare for a return to National League North,.   'On a personal level, I am quite enjoying it, not being so intense and less travelling.'

'Realistically, people in the club know we have had a good look at the National League.  It is frustrating to go on there and be setting on the edge of your 18-yard box for most of the season.'

Reflecting on his time at the Brakes, Holleran said: 'At certain times when I thought the end was near, something has happened which has sparked me again. There always seems to be something that comes along that goes right.   When you have got an affinity with the club I have thought, realistically, I know I will be the best person to sort it out.'

''We have lost our top goal scorers for the last five, six, seven years and, thankfully, most of them gone on to do really well.'  The article points to players who have established themselves in the Football League from Holleran's stewardship, including Courtney Baker-Richardson at Crewe, Colby Bishop at Portsmouth and Josh March at Harrogate.

Yesterday Baker-Richardson scored a winning goal for Crewe with a clever back flick.

Glass game was promotion test

In December 1973 AP Leamington ‘took the lead against Kidderminster Harriers at Aggborough after 36 minutes through winger Talbot in front of a crowd of just 281.  AP were awarded a free kick in the first minute but Brady’s centre was easily gathered by Harriers’ young keeper Marl Hingley.   AP forced their first corner a minute later.  Goodfellow took the kick but the ball was cleared.   Kidderminster suffered an early setback when Pat Lynch limped off and was replaced by substitute Wayne Jentas

In the 26^th minute AP broke the deadlock.   Slack defensive play by Kidderminster enabled Talbot to collect the ball and fire in a low shot which Hingley could only partially stop before it trickled over.  AP were doing their fair share of attacking and Hingley was called on to make a couple of fine saves.    AP forced two successive corners in the second half but both proved fruitless.    

After the break they allowed Kidderminster to come more into the picture.  Kerton Masterton equalised for the home side in the 67^th minute and Brendan Wassall put them in the lead eight minutes later.  Leamington, however, were stunned back into action and they began to search for an equaliser.  They were rewarded three minutes from time when a cross shot from Mick Boot found its way into the net with the help of a deflection.’

A home fixture against Stourbridge was seen as a test for Leamington’s promotion ambitions. ‘Unbeaten Stourbridge took a strong hold by netting two goals without reply during an entertaining first half against AP Leamington at the Windmill Ground today.  Stourbridge opened at a lively pace and quickly put the home side under pressure.  After only three minutes Hayward put in a teasing shot which Jones did well to push over the top.   The centre forward then burst on a through ball and Jones was forced to dash from his line and collect at the second attempt.

 Leamington were looking nimble in midfield and Boot twice put over fine cross balls to cause concern.  And when the little wing half hammered over a head high centre, Moore clutched at it under pressure from Foster.   Talbot flashed into the picture with a snap drive which beat Moore but swerved into the side netting.  

But it was Stourbridge who eventually broke the deadlock with a superb goal after 20 minutes.   Left back Davies was the scorer, his 25-yard shot giving Jones no chance.   Two minutes later Bates tapped in a second when the home defence failed to clear a loose ball.  Stourbridge were shaping as a talented outfit and the home defence looked quite shaky against some organised attacks.   Only Talbot was proving dangerous on the home front but his bright wing play failed to inspire his colleagues

Classy Stourbridge increased their lead seven minutes in the second half when Bates rose to head home from Booth’s pin-point centre.  Leamington then survived a hectic moment when Stourbridge forwards failed to put the ball home as Jones and Bowden lay injured after colliding in midair.’   Leamington got a late consolation, but the Glass went top of the table.