Midland Football League Newsletter
27th August 2015
League News
The official opening of Coventry Copsewood’s new changing rooms and community area will take place Sunday 6th Sept. Photos will appear in a future newsletter. If you are looking for a football fix on Sunday, Alcester Town are hosting the Graham Weale charity shield with a kick off at 10:30. The game sees Alcester Old Boys take on Alcester young guns.

The travels of the Press Officer
Saturday 22nd August
AFC Wulfrunians 3 Loughborough University 1
On a baking hot day and with thunderstorms in the offing, I decided to make the short trip to Castlecroft to see two sides with 100% league records. The home side had surprised themselves with the start they had made and had followed up their league wins with an FA Cup victory over Southam United. The Students had suffered a couple of heavy league defeats but an FA Cup victory over Barrow Town was hopefully, the start they needed. The first half was pretty even with both sides missing chances before Wulfrunians took the lead just before the interval when Chris Lait’s shot was half-stopped by keeper Matthew Donvito but it still managed to cross the line. The home side doubled the lead three minutes into the second half when Jake Sedgemore made no mistake from the penalty spot after Ricky Anslow had been tripped. Loughborough bounced back with a Max Herbert penalty after Jeremiah Dasaolu had been clipped. Anslow restored Wulfrunians two goal cushion with a calm finish. The heat took its toll and the Students were unable to get back into the game.

Tuesday 25th August
Brocton 3 Rocester 0
A Staffordshire derby at Silkmore lane and two sides already desperate to get their league seasons underway. Both came into the game without a point although Rocester had progressed in the FA Cup. The first half was a cagey affair with Dan Lomas going close for Brocton and Callum Barrett pulling out a fine double save to thwart the Romans. Brocton snatched the lead just before the break
when Gary Fife looped a header over Richard Froggatt from an excellent David Berks free-kick. The arrival of Josh Wilson after half-time gave Brocton an additional attacking threat. Minutes after crashing a shot against the post, the youngster found the bottom corner from 20 yards. Fife hit the woodwork before grabbing his second and Brocton’s third with a clip over the keeper. Rocester responded but when Karl Demidh rattled the crossbar it was clear that it wasn’t to be their night.

Wednesday 26th August
Kidsgrove Athletic 0 Stafford Rangers 3
A rare opportunity to watch my own team so a short trip up the M6 to Kidsgrove. Last season’s game between the two sides ended in a 6-0 victory for rangers but with Kidsgrove having strengthened their side a much closer encounter was anticipated. Stafford are clear favourites to win the Evostik South this season and they underlined those credentials with an excellent display of fast accurate football and quality finishing. In fact, with the rub of the green from the officials, they could have matched last season’s scoreline. Stafford took the lead in the 25th minute. A Kidsgrove clearance cannoned into Christian Dacres causing panic in the home penalty area. Alex Melbourne reacted quickest to hook the ball home. Rangers second half goals were tremendous. Nathan Rooney scored number two from a ridiculously tight angle and the 3rd owed everything to the tenacity and work rate of Ben Haseley who beat umpteen defenders, somehow managed to keep possession and then rattled the ball into the top corner. The evening was finished with me conducting the post match interview with Rangers’ manager Neil Kitching – it was good to be back, if briefly.
I will not be at a game over the Bank Holiday weekend as I will be trying to keep dry at Shrewsbury Folk Festival!

Weekend review
Premier Division
Pride of place on Saturday has to go to Hereford. Three nil down after 13 minutes at Rocester, the Bulls came back and scored 4 in the last half an hour to take the points back to Edgar Street. At the top of the table, Highgate United dropped their first points of the season having to settle for a point at fellow high flyers Long Eaton United. Stourport Swifts continue on the winning trail beating Bardon Hill 3-0 away from home, Ben Maund on the score sheet again. AFC Wulfrunians also have a
100% record beating Loughborough University at Castlecroft and they are joined in the top group by Shepshed Dynamo who also maintained their 100% record with a narrow win at Brocton, Matt Langham on target. League new boys Heanor Town have a perfect record winning 4-1 at Coleshill Town. Boldmere St Michaels continue to struggle going down 3-0 at Coventry Sphinx. Alvechurch are gaining some momentum and were 4-1 winners at Dunkirk. Lye Town lost their 100% record with a 2-1 defeat at Walsall Wood while at the other end of the table Quorn got off the mark with a 2-1 win at Westfields. At the Aspray Arena, Sporting Khalsa eased past Continental Star wining 3-0.

Division 1
If it’s goals you are looking for, Division 1 is the place to be. Nuneaton Griff heading the scoring charts with a 9-1 win at Racing Club Warwick, Luke Shorthouse with a hat-trick. There were 10 goals at St Johns Park with Hinckley beating Studley 8-2, Marco Adaggio and Luke Richards with hat-tricks. Cadbury Athletic continue their good run of form with a 6-2 victory at Pelsall Villa. Two fancied sides met at Brownsfield Park with Lichfield City edging out Leicester Road 3-2. At the top of the table, there is no stopping Coventry United as they recorded their 5th win out of 5. The Joshes, O’Grady and Blake, were on the scoresheet again as they beat Bolehall Swifts 5-1 at Rene Road. Elsewhere, Atherstone Town beat Pershore 3-0; Southam United won the battle of the Saints beating Heather St Johns 3-2 and Bromsgrove Sporting eased past Stafford Town at Evans Park winning 2-0.

Division 2
Alvis Sporting Club, Chelmsley Town and Sutton United continue to lead the way with 100% records. Alvis won a tight game at Droitwich Spa by the odd goal in 5 while Sutton United and Chelmsley Town had 4-0 victories over Feckenham and Earlswood Town respectively. Attendance of the day was at Paget Rangers where a crowd of 91 witnessed a 1-1 draw with Coton Green. Austrey Rangers got their first win of the campaign 4-1 away to Fairfield Villa. Elsewhere there were draws at Hampton versus Barnt Green Spartak and for Rostance Edwards at Knowle.

Division 3
FC Stratford, Barton United and Enville Athletic all boast 100% records after the second week of the season. Stratford top the pile on goal difference after a 5-0 win at home to Northfield Town. Enville Athletic are next after a thrilling 4-3 win at Badsey Rangers. Barton needed a stoppage time winner to beat league new boys Coventrians. There were 7 goals at Stratford Road, as visitors Shipston Excelsior beat hosts Alcester Town 4-3 with two goals from Craig Robins. Inkberrow are up and running after a 2-1 win at Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons. Leamington Hibernian remain unbeaten after a 3-2 win over Smithswood Firs.

Midweek Review
Premier Division
I don’t know what’s in the water at Edgar Street but Hereford were again involved in a goal fest against Coleshill Town. Three goals inside the first 17 minutes was a sign of things to come as the
free-scoring visitors warmed up for their FA Cup tie at Stafford Rangers with a stunning 5-4 victory. Dean Rathbone scored a hat-trick for Coleshill with strike duo John Mills and Pablo Heysham on target for the Bulls. Stourport Swifts sit proudly on top of the table, a 4-2 victory over Westfields came courtesy of a Ben Maund hat-trick. Quorn were the night’s biggest scorers putting 6 past Bardon Hill who slipped to 19th in the table. Heanor Town still have a 100% record but their game at Loughborough University was abandoned at half-time due to a floodlight failure. Previous leaders Highgate United were held to a draw by Sporting Khalsa whose equaliser came from the penalty spot, three minutes into stoppage time. Shepshed Dynamo failed to win for the first time this season following a goalless draw with Coventry Sphinx. Another 100% record to go was that of AFC Wulfrunians who were beaten by Boldmere St Michaels, Gurpal Singh Mandair with the only goal of the game. Alvechurch are on the march and a 2-1 victory over Lye Town moves them up to 6th. Rocester are still looking for their first points of the season as they lost 3-0 at Brocton who got their season up and running thanks to a brace from Gary Fife. On Wednesday evening, Long Eaton United moved up to 3rd place with a 2-0 win over Dunkirk. Bradley Wells and Tom Cooper-Richards got the goals for the home side.

Division 1
You can’t take your eyes off leaders Coventry United who made it 6 out of 6 with a 6-1 win over Atherstone Town. The double act of Josh O’Grady and Josh Blake both bagged a brace for United who have a 6 point cushion at the top of the table. Racing Club Warwick gave their manager a positive reaction to Saturday’s 9 goal defeat by winning 4-1 at Pershore Town. Bromsgrove Sporting are unbeaten and up to 4th in the table following a 3-1 win over 2nd placed Littleton. Bolehall Swifts remain pointless following a 3-0 defeat at Leicester Road. Hinckley AFC won the battle of the fancied sides at St Johns Park beating Lichfield City 2-0. Cadbury Athletic were held to a draw by Coventry Copsewood; Heath Hayes edged the Staffordshire derby with Stafford Town thanks to a Joe Pickering goal; Pilkington XXX were amongst the goals with a 4-2 win at Pelsall Villa while Studley shared the spoils with Southam United. On Wednesday, the goal machine that is Nuneaton Griff went one better than the weekend, beating Heather St Johns 10-0. Luke Shorthouse followed up his Saturday hat-trick with four goals for Griff who are up to 2nd in the table.

Weekend Preview
FA CUP
Plenty of fixtures in the preliminary round of the FA Cup and opportunities for giant killings. AFC Wulfrunians host Romulus who are mid table in the Evostik South. Shepshed Dynamo will fancy their chances at another Evostik side Carlton Town who have lost their opening two home games. Coleshill Town have a tough task as they travel to Evostik South favourites Stafford Rangers, the game being switched to Marston Road with the agreement of the FA. Dunkirk host NCEL1 Bottesford Town and would expect to progress. Rocester have a Staffordshire derby travelling to Harrison Park to face Evostik South Leek Town. League form would indicate a home win but this is the FA Cup. Two Premier Division sides meet as Loughborough University entertain Long Eaton United. Continental Star face a difficult trip to Evostik South Newcastle Town and will do well to bring them back to Dales Lane for a replay. Coventry Sphinx make the short journey to Rugby Town and must have a good chance of causing a shock. Division 1 Cadbury Athletic travel to Premier Division Sporting Khalsa and this game could be filled with goals. Two in form sides meet at Walshes
Meadow with Premier Division high flyers Stourport Swifts and Alvechurch locking horns. Westfields welcome Evostik South Kidsgrove Athletic to Allpay Park and will want to win at the first time of asking. An intriguing game at The Victoria ground as Division 1 heavyweights Bromsgrove Sporting and Hinckley AFC meet. A replay and penalties wouldn’t be a surprise.

Premier Division
Only one game on Saturday as Brocton host Bardon Hill. The Badgers got their season underway in midweek and will be looking to back that up against a Bardon hill side who themselves will want to bounce back from a 6-1 defeat at Quorn. Cup replays permitting, there is a full fixture list on Bank Holiday Monday. Leaders Stourport Swifts host Coleshill Town in what promises to be an entertaining game. All eyes in the City of Hereford will be on Allpay Park where Westfields will host neighbours Hereford in an all-ticket sell out. At the top of the table, Alvechurch take on Highgate United at Lye Meadow while Shepshed Dynamo travel to Hillsfield to face Rocester still searching for their first league points of the season. Heanor Town will be hoping to maintain their 100% records as they host Dunkirk whilst AFC Wulfrunians will expect to get back in winning ways when they face pointless Continental Star at Castlecroft. Loughborough University will be looking to get their first points of the season when they travel to a Quorn side that have won their last two after a slow start. Elsewhere, Brocton have their 5th home league game of the season against Long Eaton United; Boldmere St Michaels will be looking for back to back wins when they face Walsall Wood; and Coventry Sphinx will be favourites to beat Bardon Hill at Sphinx Drive.

Division 1
Leaders Coventry United have games at home to Pershore Town and away at Leicester Road as they look to keep their winning start to life in Division 1 going. 3rd placed Littleton have two home games against Coventry Copsewood and Pershore Town with an opportunity to consolidate their excellent start to the season. Heather St Johns and Racing Club Warwick meet on Saturday and both will be hoping to get their season moving on the upward curve. Watch out for high scoring Nuneaton Griff as they entertain Pelsall Villa on Saturday and then travel to bottom club Bolehall Swifts on Monday. Struggling Stafford Town travel to Pilkington XXX on Saturday before hosting Lichfield City in another Staffordshire derby on Monday. Atherstone Town haven’t made the start to the season they would have hoped and they will be wanting to put that right with games at Studley on Saturday and a t home to Coventry Copsewood on Monday. Tenants face hosts at St Johns Park on Monday as Hinckley AFC ‘host’ Heather St Johns; Unbeaten Bromsgrove Sporting travel to Pilkington XXX on Monday; Heath Hayes, recovering well from relegation, are at home to Pelsall Villa; and Studley host Cadbury Athletic, the Chocolatemen fresh from their FA Cup exploits.

Division 2
A busy weekend in Division 2 with games on Saturday and Monday. Leaders Alvis Sporting Club play on Saturday only and travel to Earlswood Town, pointless after two games. The blank Monday offers Chelmsley Town the chance to open up a gap if they can beat Paget Rangers at home on Saturday and then win at unbeaten Rostance Edwards on Monday. Sutton United take their 100% record to Droitwich Spa on Saturday which promises to be a stern test. Feckenham are yet to score this season and they travel to Austrey Rangers on Saturday. 5th placed Coton Green entertain Knowle on Saturday and then travel to Hampton on Monday which could be a close battle. Bottom of the table
Fairfield Villa host Barnt Green Spartak on Saturday in what should be a tight game. Rostance Edwards have the chance to put pressure on the sides above before that game on Monday when they welcome Hampton to The Red Lion Ground on Saturday afternoon. Elsewhere on Monday, Barnt Green Spartak welcome Droitwich Spa to The Coppice while Knowle face Earlswood Town at The Robins Nest.

Division 3
Lots of activity in Division 3 this weekend with most teams in action twice. Leaders FC Stratford are one of the exceptions and the will have to wait until Monday when they face fellow high flyers Leamington Hibernian. 2nd placed Enville Athletic take their 100% record on the road with trips to Redditch Borough and Northfield Town. 3rd place Barton United are also on their travels with games at Leamington Hibernian and Burntwood Town. Burntwood Town play their first game at their new home on Saturday when Coventrians are the visitors. AFC Solihull are looking for their first points in the MFL and they travel to Inkberrow and Badsey Rangers over the weekend. Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons are still to get off the mark this season and they host Perrywood and Smithswood Firs. Elsewhere on Saturday, Alcester Town host Badsey Rangers before travelling to Inkberrow on Monday; Shipston Excelsior travel to Smithswood Firs before hosting Coventrians on Monday; and on Monday, Perrywood welcome Redditch Borough to Neel Park. It is fair to say, that the league table will look a lot different after the weekend.

The entertainment value of the midland Football League is there for all to see and we are seeing encouraging attendances across all of our divisions. Goals are what people come to see and we seem to have an abundance early in the season. In the Premier Division, pride of place has to go to Hereford last weekend. 3-0 down inside 13 minutes at Rocester, the Bulls somehow managed to turn it around and grabbed a stoppage time winner. Division 1 saw 59 goals in 10 games – an incredible average. There were 10 goals at St Johns Park as Hinckley beat Studley 8-2, 10 at Townsend Meadow as visitors Nuneaton Griff beat Racing Club Warwick 9-1 and a further 8 at The Bush as Cadbury Athletic beat Pelsall Villa 6-2. In Division 2, there were 22 goals in the seven fixtures with Chelmsley Town, Austrey Rangers and Sutton United all bagging 4. Division 3 was not to be outdone, 30 goals in 6 matches with 7 at Alcester Town (at home to Shipston Excelsior) and Badsey Rangers (at home to Enville Athletic).  If any-one asks why we should watch the Midland Football League, 152 goals in 34 games is as good an argument as we can give. This weekend’s Bank Holiday fixtures, which include the FA Cup, promise another action packed and goal-filled couple of days.  Just think about the reporters trying to summarise these games in 250 words or less – perhaps if we keep doing it, we may get more column space!

Midland Football League Newsletter
20th August 2015  
League News
Pershore Town are hosting a charity match on Sunday September 6th with the proceeds going to a number of local charities. Growers Utd, is a group of local companies based in & and around the Pershore/Evesham area that undertake at their own cost, considerable charity work for local good causes & have previously raised substantial funds. The match referred to on the poster relates to three young children suffering from cerebral palsy but Growers has in the past & will in the future continue to raise money for a variety of other charities both locally & also, amongst others, the Birmingham Children's Hospital. A copy of the advertisement is attached with this newsletter for information.  Brocton are proud to announce that Terry Homer has finished joint 3rd in the FA Groundsman of the Year for Step 5 and 6 clubs – congratulations Terry! At the time of writing, Westfields have only 400 tickets remaining for their Bank Holiday Monday clash with Hereford at Allpay Park. Coleshill Town striker, Luke Barlone, has attracted significant media interest following his four goals in the FA Cup on Friday. Look out for coverage in local and national media.

The travels of the Press Officer
Friday 14th August
Coleshill Town 11 Ellesmere Rangers 0
With Coleshill having a new pitch installed at Packmeadow, their home FA Cup tie against West Midland regional league premier division Ellesmere was moved to The Lamb ground, home of Tamworth FC. After watching the Meresiders in pre-season, a close game was anticipated. No-one told Coleshill this as they raced into a 3 goal lead inside 10 minutes, Luke Edwards, Luke Barlone and Thomas Weale on the scoresheet.  Barlone grabbed his second in the 21st minute and then the ‘home’ side contrived to hit the woodwork twice before Barlone grabbed his hat-trick and Coleshill’s 5th after just 24 minutes. Demetrious Smikle and Barlone again gave Coleshill a 7 goal lead at the break. Substitute Simeon Colbourne scored number 8 and 10 (but missed three sitters), Smikle grabbed number 9 and Dean Rathbone finished things off with a screamer in the 72nd minute. It should have been more as Ellesmere were down to ten men for the last 17 minutes and without a recognised keeper after their first choice stopper was red carded for handball outside the area. Not a bad start to FA Cup weekend. Coleshill now go on to face Stafford Rangers in the next round, the tie being switched to Stafford with agreement of the FA.  

Saturday 15th August
Hinckley AFC 0 Walsall Wood 0
After 11 goals the night before, I was hoping for more of the same when 1st Division Hinckley hosted Premier Division Walsall Wood at St  Johns Park. It was my first visit to St Johns Park and what a picturesque setting it is, and even better, a ground that can generate some atmosphere. Both sides hit the post early on but the controversial moment came in the 37th minute when Liam Smith was sent off for the home side for a professional foul. The referee awarded a penalty to Walsall Wood
but Joey Butlin’s spot kick was poor, allowing Sam Arnold to make the save. The ten men of Hinckley were the better side after the break but couldn’t find a way through. A game that started off looking like a draw ended that way with a replay at Oak Park on Tuesday (see below for details).   

Tuesday 18th August
Rocester 4 Boldmere St Michaels 0
An FA Cup replay at Hillsfield, after the sides had shared 6 goals on Saturday. Rocester equalised in the dying seconds and would relish the second bite of the cherry. Hillsfield is a ground I have visited on many occasions normally in pre-season to see the ‘war’ between Rocester and Stafford Rangers (it was always a feisty affair). With the JCB Academy looming large behind the one goal, it is another ground that really does look the part. Onto the game, and the Romans took the lead in the 10th minute, Andrew Mottershead heading in at the near post. The lead was doubled on the stroke of half-time when a mistake by the Mikes sent Karl Demidh free and his finish was clinical. Troy Carty settled things with a third in the 53rd minute, a curling effort which was in from the moment the ball left his foot. Rob Ritchie-smith put the icing on the cake with another sweet strike 15 minutes from time to give the Romans a trip to Leek Town in the next round.   

Wednesday 19th August
Hampton 3 Fairfield Villa 2
My first Division 2 game of the season and a first ever visit to Field Lane, home of Hampton FC. It was a particularly wet evening and I only just made the 1830 kick off thanks to the M42. Both sides came into the game on the back of heavy opening day defeats and it took Hampton just 3 minutes to open the scoring, a deft lob from Tom Craine. Craine should have had a hat-trick, missing gilt edged opportunities before Simon Hinsley made it 2 in the 29th minute. It was all Hampton but Fairfield
grabbed a lifeline thanks to an own goal in the 39th minute. The goal certainly galvanised the visitors and they equalised just before half time with an excellent finish from Dominic Strevens. Craine grabbed his second and Hampton’s third on the hour with a drive which took a deflection past the keeper. Both sides continued to miss chances but it was the home side that picked up the three points.   
Not sure where my travels will be taking me on Saturday but next Tuesday I will be at Brocton versus Rocester.  

Week review
FA Cup
Not many shocks in the FA Cup Extra preliminary round and generally good results for MFL sides. Alvechurch saw off the challenge of Heath Hayes winning 3-0 and they now travel to Stourport Swifts who put 5 past a struggling Brocton, Ben Maund again in the goals. A goal 10 minutes from time from Tris Whitman was enough for Dunkirk to win at Bardon Hill. Bromsgrove Sporting saw off the challenge of WMRL Gornal Athletic and now host Hinckley AFC who beat Walsall Wood 3-1 in the replay at Oak Park with 2 goals in the last three minutes. Heanor Town suffered a disappointing defeat at Kirby Muxloe going down 3-1. Loughborough University put their league troubles to one side beating Barrow Town 4-1 to set up a tasty looking home tie with Long Eaton United who came from behind to beat Harrowby United.  Coventry Sphinx edged out Lye Town in a replay at Sphinx Drive after the first game had ended 2-2. Their reward is a trip to Rugby Town.  Cadbury Athletic have started the season well and they won away at Tipton Town. They now face Sporting Khalsa at home after the Premier Division new boys put 5 past Malvern Town without reply.  Quorn’s poor start to the season continued at the hands of Oadby Town, losing 3-1 at Farley Way. Shepshed Dynamo needed a late own goal to see off Retford and they travel to Carlton Town in the next round. Two Ricky Anslow goals gave AFC Wulfrunians victory at Southam United and they will host Romulus at Castlecroft. Westfields will welcome Kidsgrove Athletic to Allpay Park after a single goal victory over Pegasus Juniors in the Herefordshire derby. Continental Star needed a replay to defeat Bolehall Swifts and will travel north to face Newcastle Town.

Premier Division
Only one game in the premier Division due to the FA Cup and it saw Highgate United host Hereford at The Coppice. Highgate made it three wins out of three thanks to a brace from lei brown. Rob Purdie pulled one back late on for the Bulls but to no avail. The win gives Highgate a three point cushion into the weekend.

Division 1
Coventry United sit proudly on top of the pile with the only 100% record following home wins over Lichfield City and Pilkington XXX. Close on their heels are Littleton who followed up a 4-1 win at Stafford Town with a 3 goal victory over Pelsall Villa at home. Leicester Road are still unbeaten with two draws this week while Nuneaton Griff have scored 7 in the week drawing at Studley but beating Pershore at the Pingles Stadium. Bromsgrove Sporting are the only other unbeaten side picking u their first win in midweek over Racing Club Warwick. Cadbury Athletic celebrated their cup success with a 4-0 win over Southam United. Stafford Town picked up their first points of the season in midweek with a 4-2 win over Studley.  It’s early days yet but Division1 appears to be raining goals.

Division 2
 Alvis Sporting Club and Chelmsley Town have made perfect starts with two wins out of two. Alvis are top on goal difference following a 10-1 win at Coton Green, Dildale Linton and Thomas Maguire getting hat-tricks. Maguire was again on the scoresheet in midweek when Alvis beat Paget Rangers by a solitary goal. Chelmsley have won two tight games against Barnt Green Spartak and Knowle, Chris Lloyd on the mark in the first Game, Sam Sadler in the Knowle fixture. Droitwich Spa and Sutton United were amongst the goals at the weekend and both have a 100% record. At the bottom, Fairfield Villa have conceded 7 goals in their two opening defeats.  

Division 3
Both Smithswood Firs and Barton United scored 5 on the opening day to take the honours. Peter Martin grabbed a hat-trick for Barton as they beat new boys Shipston Excelsior 5-3 while Smithswood beat Perrywood 5-1. Elsewhere there were wins for Enville Athletic, Alcester Town and FC Stratford while the points were shared between Badsey Rangers and Northfield Town and Redditch Borough and Leamington Hibernian.   

Weekend Preview
Premier Division
With seven teams with 100% winning records, plenty has to give this weekend. Two teams with 100% records meet at Grange Park where Long Eaton United host leaders Highgate United.  FA Cup exits for both Lye Town and Walsall Wood and they meet at Oak Park with the Wood struggling with injuries. Lye are the league’s leading scorers and will be hoping to make it 3 out of 3. AFC Wulfrunians face rock bottom Loughborough University looking to maintain their perfect start to the season.  In form Stourport Swifts travel to a Bardon Hill side that have drawn their opening two Midland League games. Shepshed Dynamo take their 100% record to Silkmore Lane to tackle a
Brocton side without a point and beaten heavily at home in the FA Cup. Coleshill Town face Heanor Town at Tamworth FC hoping to take their FA Cup goalscoring form into the game. Pointless Boldmere St Michaels will want to put their poor start behind them at Sphinx Drive against Coventry Sphinx while well fancied Dunkirk and Alvechurch meet at the Ron Steel Sports ground. Rocester, without a league goal, entertain Hereford at Hillsfield with the Bulls pointless on their travels. Sporting Khalsa meet Continental Star at the Aspray Arena while Westfields welcome Quorn to Allpay Park.

Division 1
Leaders Coventry United are the only side with a 100% record and they travel to Rene Road to face Bolehall Swifts, struggling at the bottom of the table. Littleton have started with three wins out of four and they host Heath Hayes. Two sides who could well be near  the summit at the end of the season are Lichfield City and Leicester Road and their meeting at Brownsfield Park promises to be a good one. Cadbury Athletic have also started the season in impressive form and they will be expecting more of the same at Pelsall Villa. Unbeaten Bromsgrove Sporting travel to Evans Park to face Stafford Town who picked up a much need win at Studley in midweek. Elsewhere, Atherstone Town face Pershore Town, Hinckley AFC are at home to Studley, Pilkington XXX host Coventry Copsewood, Racing Club Warwick welcome Nuneaton Griff and Southam United host Heather St johns.

Division 2
The big game at the top of the table sees Alvis Sporting Club travel to Droitwich Spa. Both sides were in free-scoring form in week one so it could be a difficult day for defences. Chelmsley Town take their 100% record to Earlswood Town while Sutton United, also with a 100% record entertain Feckenham at Hollyfield Road. Basement boys Fairfield Villa will be hoping for their first points of the season at home to Austrey Rangers. Elsewhere, Hampton host Barnt Green Spartak, Knowle face unbeaten Rostance Edwards at The Robins Nest, and Paget Rangers entertain inconsistent, Coton Green .

Division 3
League new boys Coventrians travel to Barton United for their first Midland Football League fixture, with the home side buoyed by last week’s 5 goal opening salvo. Smithswood Firs also scored 5 on the opening day and they travel to Leamington Hibernian. Alcester started with a win on opening day and they host new boys Shipston Excelsior involved in that 8 goal thriller at Barton. Elsewhere, Badsey Rangers welcome Enville Athletic to the Recreation Ground, Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons face Inkberrow and FC Stratford entertain Northfield Town

The Extra Preliminary Round of The FA Cup saw 16 of our sides through to the next round to be held on Saturday 29th August. Pride of place, as far as goals scored, goes to Coleshill Town with an impressive 11-0 win over Ellesmere Rangers. It could have been even better for Coleshill as they hit the woodwork twice in the first half and missed three sitters in the second. Ellesmere played the last 17 minutes with only 10 men and no recognised keeper but there was no additional score in the game.  There were plenty of goals last weekend in the various divisions. Studley and Nuneaton Griff shared 6 goals at the Pingles Stadium in Division 1; Alvis Sporting Club scored 10 at Coton Green while Droitwich Spa got underway with a 6-1 home win over Hampton in Division 2; in Division 3, Barton United edged an 8 goal thriller with Shipston Excelsior while Smithswood Firs also went nap against Perrywood.  Our reserve division also got under way and there were no shortage of goals there too.  Most attention on The MFL has been focussed on Hereford FC which wall come as no surprise to anyone involved in the league. Their opening away game at Stourport Swifts was brilliantly handled by everyone at Walshes Meadow and will have silenced the doubters as to whether the league can cope. The answer was a resounding yes both on and off the park and it was fantastic to see the Bulls supporters enjoying the hospitality both inside the ground and in the town beforehand.  Above all, the Midland Football League was the winner on the evening – let’s continue to tell everyone just how good we are!

League News

QUORN FC JOINS BHF's NATION OF LIFESAVERS WITH A LIFE SAVING DEFIBRILLATOR

Quorn FC and its Local Community have been equipped with a lifesaving defibrillator, through a partnership between the Football Association (FA) and the British Heart Foundation (BHF).

Through the partnership, the BHF and the FA have made more than 900 defibrillators available to clubs at Steps 1 to 7 of the National League System and in the Women’s Super League to help prevent lives being needlessly lost following a cardiac arrest.

Over 30,000 cardiac arrests happen out of hospital in the UK every year but currently less than one in ten people survive. The BHF say many more lives can be saved through creating a Nation of Lifesavers by equipping people with the skills and confidence to perform CPR and use a defibrillator, The BHF is also putting systems in place to ensure defibrillators are available in the places they are needed most.

Quorn FC is the latest club to install a defibrillator, giving players, staff and fans access to the equipment needed to help save lives in their community. The club was also given information about the BHF's Call Push Rescue training kit which includes everything needed to learn CPR in less than half an hour.

Two thirds of the cost of the defibrillator was provided to the club by The FA and BHF. Quorn FC Secretary Reg Molloy said: "This vital piece of equipment could prove to be the difference between life and death and it's a welcome addition to this club and its community”

"The FA and BHF have made it possible for Quorn FC to become part of the Nation of Lifesavers which aims to improve the UK's poor cardiac arrest survival rates. Along with performing CPR, a defibrillator is a vital step that can increase a person's chance of survival and we're lucky that we now have the skills and equipment at the club to help save a Life”

The Club proudly wear the JHMT (Joe Humphries Memorial Trust) Logo on their away strip and have been promoting awareness of SADS (Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome), since learning of the tragic loss of Joe at the tender age of 14. The addition of this Defibrillator is another step to help reduce the number of premature deaths.

Awareness around sudden cardiac arrests was heightened when former England Under-21 star Fabrice Muamba suffered a cardiac arrest on the pitch at White Hart Lane in March 2012' Muamba lent his support to the BHF's Nation of Lifesavers campaign earlier this year, which calls for all young people to be taught lifesaving CPR skills and defibrillator awareness at secondary schools.

When someone suffers a cardiac arrest their heart stops pumping blood around the body. They stop breathing or do not breath normally, lose consciousness and there are no signs of life. lf you see this happen, you must call 999 and start CPR immediately. A defibrillator also known as a Public Access Defibrillator or PAD, gives the heart a controlled electrical shock during cardiac arrest. This can, in some circumstances, shock the heart back into a normal rhythm.

For every minute that passes without CPR and defibrillation, chances of survival decrease by around ten per cent. So it's really important supporters and staff at Quorn FC know these vital steps to help someone in an emergency.

The travels of the Press Officer

Saturday 8th August

Walsall Wood 1 Bardon Hill Sports 1

The opening league game of the season for newcomers Bardon Hill ended in honours even after a 1- 1 draw with Walsall Wood. The Wood started the better and took the lead in the 7th minute with a super volley from Drew Aiton. Excellent goalkeeping from josh O’Brien kept the score at 1-0 into the break. Bardon hill were much improved after the break and grabbed a deserved equaliser through Richard Hanslow. Both goalkeepers were in fine form which augurs well for the season. Best moment in the game came from the Bardon hill bench. Frustrated at a perceived lack of defensive communication, the question was asked “Do you want a mobile so that you can text each other?” Classic

Monday 10th August

Coventry Sphinx 2 Quorn 0

A glorious summer’s evening in Coventry as Quorn visited Sphinx Drive. After opening day defeats both sides wanted that first win and it was the home side that took the spoils with a comfortable 2-0 win. Ash Jackson curled a superb free-kick for the opener in the 9th minute but it took until the 57th for Mitch Piggon to settle things. Quorn had their chance but the finishing was well short of what was required on the night.

Tuesday 11th August

Stourport Swifts 2 Hereford FC 0

A chance to take in Hereford’s first away game in the MFL. Parking on the Riverside car park, I wandered into Stourport and it was heaving with shirted Bulls supporters. The fish and chips seemed to be going down well as was the liquid refreshment in any number of Stourport hostelries. Inside the ground, there was a carnival atmosphere with added catering, beer tents etc – Stourport put on an excellent show. The vast majority of the 1321 crowd were to go home unhappy as Swifts came out on top with a 2-0 victory. Ben Maund got the opener from the penalty spot, Nathan Summers being red carded for a professional foul. The 10 men pushed forward but Dominic Richards in goal for Stourport was in blistering form. Joe Phillips ensured the victory with a solo goal in the 83rd minute but football and the MFL was the real winner on the evening.

Wednesday 12th August

Continental Star 1 Alvechurch 2

Both sides suffered disappointing home defeats on the opening day. Alvechurch, fancied by many to win the title this year, took the lead in the 6th minute, Leigh Downing supplying an excellent finish. There was some controversy surrounding the goal, the linesman raising a flag, lowering a flag, and then not being consulted by the referee. No idea what that was about! Alvechurch doubled their lead after half an hour when Jordan McIntosh headed into his own net. The visitors had all of the play but conceded a penalty with 20 minutes left – James Reid hammering home the spot kick. Things looked nervy for the visitors but they held on for a valuable three I will be taking in a couple of FA Cup ties as well as league games this week. Definitely scheduled are Coleshill Town vs Ellesmere Rangers
Hinckley AFC vs Walsall Wood
Week review

Premier Division

What a start with 7 clubs making a perfect start. Top of the pile are Lye Town with two thumping away wins and 9 goals in the bank. Close on their heels are Long Eaton United, no goals conceded and 5 different scorers. AFC Wulfrunians followed up their excellent win at Alvechurch with a narrow win over Brocton in midweek. Highgate United, Stourport Swifts, Shepshed Dynamo and Heanor Town are also 6 out of 6 with plenty of goals being scored. New boys Sporting Khalsa started with a bang, bagging 5 goals against Coleshill Town but slipped up in midweek at Dunkirk, who bounced back from an opening defeat in front of 4.060 at Hereford. 6 sides are looking for their first points of the season. Loughborough University prop up the table on goal difference conceding 6 and not scoring while Brocton are also on -6 but did at least score at Castlecroft. Quorn, Rocester, Continental Star and Boldmere St Michaels will be hoping to get their season’s under way next weekend.

Division 1

Two new boys sit proudly at the top of Division 1. Leicester Road and Coventry United have the only 100% records and both have put down significant markers for promotion. Leicester Road followed up a 5-0 win over Pershore with a last gasp winner at Stafford Town. Coventry United opened up with a 2-0 win at Littleton before a 4-0 demolition of Hinckley at St John’s Park. Only Bolehall Swifts and Stafford Town remain pointless after the opening two games. Bolehall suffered a 5-0 defeat at home to Cadbury Athletic in midweek and already have a minus 7 goal difference.

Weekend Preview Premier Division

One solitary Premier Division game with Highgate United entertaining Hereford FC. Highgate have started well on their return to the top flight and will be looking to take an early lead at the top of the table. The Bulls will want to bounce back from their midweek defeat at Stourport and could join the frontrunners with a victory.

Division 1

Game of the day sees Coventry United host Lichfield City at Sphinx drive. Both sides have started the season well and this will be a stern test of their promotion credential. League leaders Leicester Road travel to unbeaten Pilkington XXX who had a good win in midweek. Atherstone Town will be hoping to get their first win of the season at home to Racing Club Warwick while Pershore Town will be looking to build on their midweek victory when they entertain Heather St John’s. In the games, Pelsall Villa host Coventry Copsewood, Stafford Town take on Littleton at Evans Park while Nuneaton Griff travel to Studley.

Division 2

With a solitary game in Division 2 last week, the season gets properly underway with a full fixture list. Coton Green are sitting pretty after last week’s win at Austrey Rangers and they entertain Alvis Sporting Club. Chelmsley Town host Barnt Green Spartak after a decent pre-season while Droitwich Spa take on Hampton. Paget Rangers travel to Earlswood Town with Fairfield Villa at home to Sutton United. Austrey Rangers will be looking to respond to last week’s defeat when they travel to Knowle while Rostance Edwards, who had a good end to pre-season welcome Feckenham to The Red Lion.

Division 3

League new boys AFC Solihull have a home game to start the new era with Enville Athletic being the visitors. Fellow newcomers Shipston Excelsior are on their travels to face Barton United. Alcester Town and Burntwood Town meet at Old Stratford Road with some good pre-season performances behind them. Badsey Rangers welcome Northfield Town; Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons face FC Stratford while Redditch Borough welcome Leamington Hibernian to the valley. Smithswood Firs have recruited well and they meet Perrywood at Mackadown.

FA Cup

On Friday Coleshill Town have a home tie against Ellesmere Rangers at Tamworth FC. Coleshill should be expected to progress against an Ellesmere side that has won one lost one in the league this season. Premier Division meets Division 1 at Alvechurch as the Churchmen face Heath Hayes, who made a good start to the season. Three all Premier Division ties sees Bardon Hill at home to Dunkirk, Brocton at home to Stourport Swifts and Boldmere St Michaels at home to Rocester. Big game at St John’s Park with Hinckley AFC’s first FA Cup tie at home to Premier Division Walsall Wood. Heanor Town travel to former MFL side Kirby Muxloe while in form Long Eaton United will be expected to beat Harrowby Town. Loughborough University have a third successive home game entertaining Barrow Town. Lye Town versus Coventry Sphinx has been moved to Bromsgrove Sporting and could be a cracking cup tie. Sporting Khalsa travel to West Midlands Malvern town who have lost their two opening games of the season. Quorn will want to get their season started at home to Oadby Town. Shepshed Dynamo should be too strong for Retford United at The Dovecote while Southam United will fancy a giant killing at home to AFC Wulfrunians. There is a Herefordshire derby at Allpay Park as Westfields take on Pegasus Juniors. Bromsgrove Sporting have a tricky looking tie away at Gornal Athletic while Cadbury Athletic will be optimistic when they take on a troubled Tipton Town at Tipton Sports Academy. On Sunday. Continental Star will expect to get past Division 1 Bolehall Swifts at Dales Lane. Both sides are pointless after two league games but home advantage could make the difference

Premier Division Preview

Monday night’s game sees a meeting of two sides who suffered defeat on the opening day with Coventry Sphinx hosting Quorn at Sphinx Drive. On Tuesday, two sides who had contrasting fortunes on Saturday meet at Castlecroft. AFC Wulfrunians will be buoyant after an opening day with at Alvechurch while visitors Brocton will want to bounce back from a 5 goal hammering at the hands of Lye Town. Bardon Hill picked up a deserved point at Walsall Wood on Saturday while visitors Coleshill suffered a heavy defeat against fellow new boys Sporting Khalsa. Over in Nottingham, Dunkirk entertain Sporting Khalsa with both sides involved in high scoring affairs at the weekend, Dunkirk at Hereford while Khalsa started with a -2 victory over last season’s runners up, Coleshill. League new boys Heanor Town picked up all three points at Boldmere despite being reduced to 10 men and they entertain a Rocester side beaten at home by Stourport Swifts. Highgate United started life back in the Premier Division with an emphatic win at Quorn while Walsall Wood were held by Bardon Hill. Loughborough University will be hoping not to lose their opening two home league games when they entertain Long Eaton United who started with a good home win over Coventry Sphinx. Shepshed Dynamo started with an excellent away win at Continental Star and will be looking to get back to back wins when Boldmere St Michaels visit the Dovecote. The Mikes slipped up at home to 10 man Heanor and will want to get off the mark. At Walshes Meadow, something has to give as Stourport Swifts host Hereford with both sides picking up 3 points on Saturday. At Allpay Park, another two sides with good away wins under their belt meet with Westfields hosting Lye Town. The solitary game on Wednesday evening sees Continental Star host Alvechurch at Dales Lane with both sides looking for their first points of the season after disappointing opening home defeats.

Division 1 Preview

Atherstone Town picked up a good point away to Lichfield on Saturday and will be looking for more as they entertain a Heath Hayes that started with a win over Coventry Copsewood. Two sides looking for their first points of the season meet at Rene Road with Bolehall Swifts at home to Cadbury Athletic. A meeting of two of the early season favourites at St John’s Park with Hinckley AFC hosting Coventry United. Both sides started with wins to get their seasons up and running. Two more fancied sides meet at The City Ground with Lichfield City welcoming visitors Heather St Johns. Pelsall Villa host Bromsgrove Sporting at The Bush Ground with both teams searching for their first win of the season. Pershore Town were on the end of a 5 goal defeat at Leicester Road on Saturday and will want to bounce back against Studley who picked up all 3 points at home to Bolehall Swifts. Pilkington XXX featured in the only goalless draw on the opening day and they face Nuneaton Griff who had a good win over Stafford Town. Two sides who failed to score meet at Townsend Meadow when Racing Club Warwick welcome Coventry Copsewood. Southam United picked up a good point away at Bromsgrove Sporting on Saturday and they welcome Littleton, who lost at home to Coventry United, to Banbury Road. The final game on Tuesday sees Stafford Town entertain early pace setters Leicester Road at Evans Park. Promoted Leicester Road will be delighted with their 5 goal start at home to Pershore while Stafford slipped up at Nuneaton Griff.

The Extra Preliminary Round of The FA Cup features 26 Midland Football League Clubs, all hoping of a big payday further down the line. There are eight all MFL ties so that we are at least guaranteed 8 sides through to the Preliminary Round which will be held on August 29th. In the past the FA have made draws through to the First Qualifying Round at the same time as the Preliminary Round draws. This year, those sides lucky to make it through to the next stage will have to wait to find out who they will play. The First Qualifying Round sees the inclusion of sides from Step 3 so a chance for our teams to compete with the likes of Barwell, Halesowen Town, Ilkeston, Mickleover Sports, Rushall Olympic, Stourbridge, Sutton Coldfield Town, Bedworth United, Kettering Town or Redditch United. The early stages of the FA Cup may not excite a lot of people but imagine Lye Town at home to Stourbridge, Hinckley AFC vs Barwell, Walsall Wood vs Rushall Olympic, Boldmere St Michaels v Sutton Coldfield Town, Bromsgrove Sporting vs Redditch United, Heanor Town vs Ilkeston FC, Rocester vs Mickleover Sports or Coventry Sphinx vs Bedworth United. All of these games would pull in the locals and give our teams a chance to compete with those from 2 or three steps higher. If those games came to pass, I would be favouring the MFL sides in a number of them. This weekend sees the start of full fixtures in Division 2, Division 3 and our Reserve Divisions. Please give all of these clubs your support - they will appreciate it and you will be highly entertained in the process.

Midland Football League Newsletter
7th August 2015

League News
Unfortunately, Kenilworth Town Kings Heath have resigned from the league with immediate effect. This means that Division 2 will run with 14 clubs this season. Westfields have broken the 800 ticket barrier after a few days of sales for their Bank Holiday Monday local derby with Hereford.

The travels of the Press Officer
Saturday 1st August
Stafford Rangers 4 Mickleover Sports 1
As a Stafford Rangers supporter, it was only right that I should see the first game played on the re-laid Marston Road pitch before the season begins. Rangers entertained last season’s Evostik Div 1 South champions Mickleover who were expected to provide a stern test. It never materialised as Rangers flew into a 4-0 lead in the first half. Sports were marginally better after the break but it was the home side that can look forward to the season with more confidence based on this encounter.

Tuesday 4th August
Heath Hayes 3 Ellesmere Rangers 1

My first visit to Heath Hayes in the dry and I wasn’t disappointed. A game of four goals, missed chances galore, tasty tackles, handbags at dawn and a brawl. What more could the neutral want? Most of the tackles were just on the right side of legal but the Ellesmere right back seemed intent on a running battle with a number of the home side. On the park, Heath Hayes look in a good position to bounce back after last year’s relegation.

I am taking in a number of league games over the next week. They are as follows:-

Walsall Wood vs Bardon Hill
Coventry Sphinx vs Quorn
Stourport Swifts vs Hereford FC
Continental Star vs Alvechurch

Weekend Preview Premier Division
Alvechurch have had an excellent pre-season taking some notable scalps and remaining unbeaten. They entertain AFC Wulfrunians which is always a tight affair. Boldmere St Michaels have gone under the radar a little in pre-season and they entertain Heanor Town, for their first game in the Midland Football League. Both sides are full of goals so expect an entertaining game. Brocton face Lye Town at Silkmore Lane. The Badgers came out on top in both matches last season but there is unpredictability about both sides which make this a very watchable game. Continental Star face a Shepshed Dynamo side well fancied to do well this season. Dales Lane is never an easy place to visit and both sides will be hopeful of getting something out of the game. The biggest crowd of the day will undoubtedly be at Edgar Street for the first official fixture for Hereford FC at home to Dunkirk. Both sides have had a good pre-season with Dunkirk scoring heavily. Should be a cracker. One of a last season’s title challengers, Long Eaton United take on Coventry Sphinx at Grange Park. Both sides have had mixed results in pre-season but both are expected to challenge for honours. Another side that have gone under the radar during pre-season is Quorn who face promoted Highgate United at Farley Way. Stourport Swifts make the journey north to Staffordshire to tackle Rocester at Hillsfield. The Romans finished pre-season on high with a win over Step 4 Loughborough Dynamo but may find Swifts tougher opposition. A first MFL game for Sporting Khalsa following their promotion from the West Midlands Regional League as they host last season front runners Coleshill Town at the Aspray Arena. Both sides have looked good in pre-season and will want to set down a marker from the outset. Newly promoted Bardon Hill make their debut in the MFL with a trip to Walsall Wood, who are hoping to build on last season’s fourth placed finish.

Division 1
Bromsgrove Sporting begin with a home game against Southam United after an excellent pre-season. The Saints have had mixed friendly results but they will count for nothing at The Victoria ground. Two sides that have impressed in pre-season are Cadbury Athletic and Hinckley AFC and they meet at the TSA Sports Ground. Pelsall Villa had a difficult 2014/15 and will be looking for significant improvement this campaign. They start with a tough game at much changed Heather St Johns who are looking good for a promotion push. Relegated Heath Hayes start their campaign at home to Coventry Copsewood hoping to bounce back to the Premier Division at the first attempt. Promoted Leicester Road make their Division 1 bow at home to Pershore Town. Both clubs have a fair amount of forward momentum and will have their eyes set towards the top half of the table.
Two sides in fine form in pre-season are Lichfield City and Atherstone Town and they meet at The City Ground. Coventry United are many people’s favourites to gain back to back promotions but they face a tough opening day with a trip to Worcestershire to face Littleton. Pre season has gone well for Nuneaton Griff who entertain Stafford Town at the Pingles Stadium. Town will be keen to start this season better than last. Racing Club Warwick host Pilkington XXX in a game which is very hard to call. The Pilks ended pre-season with a 6-0 victory so are likely to go into the game with more confidence. A new look Bolehall Swifts travel to Studley for their opener. With most of last season’s squad moving to pastures new, Swifts will be an unknown quantity however a trip to a strong Studley would not have been their first choice for a season debut.

Division 2
Only one fixture in Division 2 but it is a tasty one between promoted Austrey Rangers and Coton Green at Austrey Fields. Coton Green finished bottom of the pile in Division 2 last season in contrast to Austrey who were Division 3 champions. Should be an excellent start to what will be a very competitive division.

Pre- season results
Saturday 1st August
AFC Bridgnorth 3 Pelsall Villa 0
AFC Solihull 4 Studley United 1
Alvechurch 2 Sutton Coldfield Town 1
Alvis Sporting Club 2 RC Warwick 0
Atherstone Town 0 Halesowen Town 1
Austrey Rangers 4 (Stroud, Minshull, Ocean, Heaton) Ashby Ivanhoe 0
Aylestone Park 2 Coleshill Town 3
Barton United 6 (Roberts 2, Williams, Jackson, Martin, Warrington) Norton Canes 2
Boldmere St Michaels 3 (OG, Clarke, Birch) Leicester Nirvana 2
Brocton 3 (Fife, McMahon, Farrell) Wolverhampton Casuals 3
Bromsgrove Sporting 1 (Williams) Runcorn Town 0
Burntwood Town 1 Rostance Edwards 5 (Plimmer 2, Baxter, Evans, Ball)
Coton green 5 Enville Athletic 1 (Boden)
Coventry Copsewood 2 (Farrell 2) Coventry Sphinx 2 (Cain, Jeys)
Dudley Town 4 Heath Hayes 1
Dunkirk 1 (Hemagou) Witton Albion 4
Ellesmere Rangers 0 Walsall Wood 6 (Butlin 3, Harris, Adams, Holgate)
FC Stratford 1 (Tilbury) Wake Green 1
Feckenham 3 (Higgins 3) Tipton Town 0
Folly Lane OB 1 Heather St Johns 2
Graham Street Prims 3 Long Eaton United 2
Hanley Castle 0 Perrywood 4 (Martin 2, T.Corbett, J.Corbett)
Hereford FC 2 (Page, Mills) Hull City U21 3
Highgate United 3 Barnt Green Spartak 1
Holbrook Sports 2 Rocester 3
Lichfield City 2 (Richards, Evans) Bardon Hill 2 (Moore 2)
Littleton 0 AFC Wulfrunians 1
Loughborough University 0 Coventry United 0
Mickleover Royals 7 Hampton 3 (Craine 3)
Nuneaton Griff 3 (Moore 2, Ruff) Anstey Nomads 4
Pilkington XXX 2 Alcester Town 2 (Mumford, Brown)
Quorn 1 Real United 1
Rainworth MW 0 Heanor Town 2 (Debrouwer, Hawkins)
Shepshed Dynamo 2 Brackley Town 0
Southam United 0 Daventry Town 1
Sporting Khalsa 4 (Westwood 2, Bannister 2) Thornaby 2
Stafford Town 1 (Hulme) Shifnal Town 0
Stourport Swifts 1 (Maund) Bewdley Town 3
Studley 1 Cradley Town 3
Sutton United 0 Cadbury Athletic 3
Westfields 4 (Cuss 2, Birch, Jones) Brislington 1

Tuesday 4th August
Bolehall Swifts 0 Sutton united 1 (McGivern)
Chasetown 2 Hinckley AFC 2 (Adaggio, Richards)
Continental Star 4 Wolves Sporting 1
Coton Green 4 Burntwood 2
Cradley Town 5 Paget Rangers 2
Dudley Sports 0 Bromsgrove Sporting 1 (Corbett)
Evesham United 4 Westfields 0
FC Stratford 1 Highgate United 5
Feckenham 1 (Bennett) Inkberrow 1
Halesowen Town 0 Alvechurch 2 (Penney, Priest)
Heanor Town 3 (Debrouwer, Cooper 2) Mansfield Town 2
Heath Hayes 3 Ellesmere Rangers 1
Long Eaton United 0 Nottingham Forest U18 1
Loughborough University 3 Oadby Town 2
Pelsall Villa 0 Rushall Olympic 3
Quorn 2 South Normanton Athletic 1
Rocester 4 Loughborough Dynamo 1
Stourbridge 1 Lye Town 0

Wednesday 5th August
Barnt Green Spartak 0 Pilkington XXX 6
Hampton 4 (Craine 2, Hinsley, Richardson) FC Dunlop 0
Rostance Edwards 9 Homeserve 0
Pre-season friendlies
Saturday 8th August
AFC Solihull vs Feckenham
Alcester Town vs Moreton Rangers
Burntwood Town vs Newhall United @ Four Ashes
Chelmsley Town vs CT Shush
Daventry Town vs Barnt Green Spartak
Folly Lane vs Paget Rangers
Hawksmill Sports vs FC Stratford (1400)
Rostance Edwards vs Enville Athletic
Smithswood Firs vs Alvechurch reserves
Sutton united vs Walsall Phoenix

Tuesday 11th August
Smithswood Firs vs Birmingham Elite

The start of the new football season is finally upon us after months of waiting, talking, speculating etc. A new season sees us full of hope, anticipation, expectation, excitement, nervousness and, to a lot of people, relief in that we can let the football do the talking. This is an exciting time for the Midland Football League with new clubs to welcome and new challenges to face but with an optimism that we offer a brand of football to be enjoyed by supporters across the Midlands. We offer a heartfelt welcome to all newcomers to the MFL and hope you will embrace the warmth and hospitality offered across all of our divisions, from the Premier to our Under 21s. The future of football in the Midlands is on an upward curve and we can all play our part in shouting from the rooftops just how good life in the Midland Football League is. A number of our sides will be making their first appearance in the FA competitions this season and let’s hope for some significant success in both the FA Cup and FA Vase. A good cup run not only generates significant income for the clubs concerned but also raises the profile of the clubs and the league they play in. FA Cup wins over higher ranked opposition and a trip to Wembley in the FA Vase are attainable – who knows what the season will bring. Whatever happens, we are in for a rollercoaster ride and wherever you are, enjoy the game.