League News
Worcester City and Bromsgrove Sporting are pleased to announce that it has been mutually agreed between the two clubs that season ticket holders can attend the home fixtures of the other club for a reduced price.
For Worcester City home fixtures (League only) Bromsgrove Sporting supporters upon the production of their BSFC Season Ticket will be entitled to a reduced admission price of £9 (normal price is £13).
Likewise, for Bromsgrove Sporting home fixtures (League only) Worcester City supporters upon the production of their WCFC Season Ticket will be entitled to a reduced admission price of £4 (normal price is £6).
AFC Wulfrunians are hosting ‘An Evening with Kenny Hibbitt & Steve Daley’ at the Castlecroft Stadium on Friday 2nd September 2016, doors open at 7:30pm.
Tickets, which are selling fast, cost £20 and include a curry meal.
If you want to purchase a ticket, or would like more information, contact Simon Cater on 07870 164631 or e-mail simoncater@hotmail.com
FA Cup
The draw has been made for the 1st Qualifying Round of the FA Cup to take place on the weekend of
September 3rd. Fixtures involving MFL sides are as follows: -
Matlock Town vs Heanor Town or Long Eaton United
Chasetown or Brocton vs Grantham Town
Westfields or Tividale vs St Ives Town
Halesowen Town vs Coleshill Town or Dudley Sports
Highgate United or Boldmere St Michaels vs Leamington
Leicester Road or Harborough Town vs Bottesford Town or Kirby Muxloe
Coventry United or Lichfield City vs Bedworth United or Rocester
Deeping Rangers or Wroxham vs Loughborough University or Gresley
Sporting Khalsa or Romulus vs Hereford or Alvechurch
Rugby Town or Bromsgrove Sporting vs Corby Town
Stafford Rangers vs Kidsgrove Athletic or Lye Town
Travels of the Press Officer
Saturday August 13th
Premier Division (5)
Sporting Khalsa 0 Coventry United 1
The opening of the league season and a trip to one of my regular haunts to see two of the teams expected to challenge for promotion from the Premier Division. Sporting Khalsa had a superb debut season in the MFL finishing thirsd whilst visitors Coventry United have had successive promotions with last season’s Division 1 title being a highlight. The start of the season was greeted with bright sunshine at The Aspray Arena and a decnt crowd welcomed the two teams. Khalsa started much the brighter and could have taken the lead in the third minute. A cross from the right found the head of the unmarked Lee Chilton but he put his header over the bar. Two minutes later, Simeon Townsend skipped clear but his shot was narrowly off target. Coventry’s first attack of note saw Pierre Moudine’s excellent cross cut out by Tesfa Robinson. In the 25th minute, Coventry went agonisingly close to the opening goal. Muzi Nduna beat Tom Turner to the ball but his goalbound effort was brillaintly cleared off the line by Carlo Franco. In the 42nd minute, the Coventry supporters in the stand were on their feet as Josh O’Grady cut in from the left and his right-footed shot was inches wide.
The visitors had claimns for a penalty waved away in the 50th minute when Nduna went down in the area. Moudine continued to cause problems down the Coventry right without anyone getting on the end of the crosses. An excellent run and cross from chilton was well held by Ricahrd Morris, the coventry keeper. In the 65th minute, Marvin Nisbett missed a good chance for Khlsa heading over the bar following a long throw from Franco. The introduction of substitute Matthe Brown added some firepower to the visitor’s frontline. In the 72nd minute, Brown was through on goal but his shot was well saved by tom turner with the Khalsa defence scrambling away the rebound. Coventry were now looking the more confident and a cross from Brian Ndlovu found Brown but his shot was well blocked by john Hill. As the game entered stoppage time, Khalsa were inches away from the lead. A free-kick from Tim Jackson found David Meese at the far post but his shot hit the post and coventry managed to get the ball clear. Two minutes later the deadlock was broken by Coventry. Kai Williams beat John hill to the ball and knocked it past the advancing Turner into the net to send the vociferous support wild. In the 7th minute of time added on (making 15 minutes in total), Franco headed a jackson free-kcik straight at Morris. An excellent game of football between two very good sides. A draw would probably have been a fair result but a single goal was always likely to clinch the points.
Tuesday August 16th
Premier Division (6) Brocton 1 Tividale 0
A glorious sunny evening and a chance to see one of the Premier Division new boys Tividale as they travel to Brocton. Both of these sides had disappointing defeats on Saturday with Brocton shell shocked after an 8-0 defeat at Coventry Sphinx. Brocton had strengthened their side with the addition of Luke Wright from Walsall Wood and he mmade an immediate impact in the centr of midfield. Jack Edwards for the home side was finding space on the right hand side and an early cross was cut out by Karl Gardner. At the other end Luke Morris shot high and wide from a narrow angle. In the 9th minute, Brocton took the lead. Sean kinsell took a croner from the right and Dan lomas headed home unmarked. In the 22nd minute, Brocton wasted a glorious chance. Kinsella robbed
Andre Edwards and sent Dominic Dell clear. Dell beat the tividale keeper Tom Hayward but his shot was off target A minute later, a run and cross from Edwards was played into the path of kinsella but he blasted wide of the target. A good piece of control from Matt Jukes created an opportunity for the Tividale striker but his shot was over the bar. Liam Morris managed to get a shot on target for Tividale but it was easily held by Callum Barrett. In the 39th minute, Jukes forced a fine save from
Barrett and Kenny Devior scrambled the ball to safety. Two minutes later, Brocton went close to a second. Kinsella’s corner was headed on by Matt Skinner and when Ben Taylor planted his header goalwards, Hayward made an excellent save.
Tividale started the second half on the front foot and the Brocton defence were forced to throw themselves in the way of a number of goalbound efforts. Dell found space in the 59th minute but he was foiled by a fine saving tackle. Both sides continued to battle without troubling either keeper. With 10 minutes left, Tividale should have equalised but somehow Liam Morris shot over the bar from insode the 6-yard box. Ticidale were awarded a free-kick just outside the area following a foul by taylor. Jukes lined up his shot but it cannoned off the wall and Brocton held on for their first points of the season.
An excellent evening’s entertainment with plenty of chances at either end.
Wednesday August 17th
Division 1 (7)
Stafford Town 1 Hinckley AFC 2 @ Stafford Rangers FC
With work on installing a new 3G pitch at Evans park continuing, Stafford Town are using the ground of Stafford rangers FC for the visit of Hinckley AFC. Stafford have seen a change in management and squad in the summer and there are only two players from last season in the matchday 16. As usual Hinckley are being talked about as potential promotion candidates and their supporters have travelled in good number to cheer them on. It was the home side that started the brighter with Queenton Mananse having the ball in the net in the third minute but he was ruled offside. Mananse went close a couple of minutes later picking up the ball on the edge of the box but firing over. Hinckley went close in the 10th minute when Rico Taylor’s free-kick was met by the head of Sean
Williams forcing Connor Alderman into a smart save. Mananse tried his luck from distance; a 30 yard free-kick gathered under the bar by Tom Cross. Hinckley should have scored in the 12th minute when Ryan Seal rounded Alderman but his shot was cleared off the line. Williams was causing problems down the right without the end product. Nick Wellecomme was off target with a free-header as Hinckley looked for an opener. The home side took the lead in the 18th minute. A back pass from Lee Thomas caught Cross in two minds and his clearance cannoned off Shepherd Machingauta who rolled in the loose ball. Machingauta should have made it two 8 minutes later but he dragged his shot wide. Both sides were creating chances without hitting the target. Hinckley equalised in the 31st minute when Darius Darkin played a through ball into the path of Seal who slotted it past
Alderman. With half time approaching, Taylor saw his shot blocked while Yann Edimo fired a free-kick just over the bar for the home side.
Stafford went close to restoring their lead just after the break but there was no-one on hand to capitalise on Dan Jones’ cross across the face of goal. In the 52nd minute, Alderman made a fine save keeping out a header from Michael Harvey. Stafford continued to play some enterprising football and from an excellent move, Machingauta forced a fine save from Cross. In the 66th minute, the woodwork saved Hinckley as Mananse’s effort ricocheted off Harvey and bounced off the foot of the post. Stafford again went close in the 71st minute. A quick break out of defence saw Ryan
Blagborough race clear but his shot hit the side-netting. With three minutes left, Wellecomme had a decent chance for Hinckley but he too hit the side-netting. With the game into injury time, Wellecomme was wrestled down in the area and the referee awarded a penalty to Hinckley which
Seal clinically despatched. Three minutes into stoppage time, another mistake by Hinckley keeper Cross gave possession to Machingauta but he couldn’t take advantage. In the 6th minute of stoppage time, Harry Bowers wasted Stafford’s last chance, volleying wide. An excellent night’s entertainment all round although Stafford will be disappointed not to pick up a point their efforts deserved.
Review
Premier Division
Coventry Sphinx were the opening day’s big winners, putting eight goals past Brocton without reply. Mitchell Thomson scored 4 as Sphinx ran into a 4 goal lead inside 19 minutes. Westfields also started with a big win, 4-0 winners at league new boys St Andrews with Dan Polan scoring all 4 inside the first 45 minutes. Long Eaton United started their season with a bang beating Stourport Swifts 5-1 at Grange Park with five different goalscorers. Jack Till was the talk of the FA Cup with his hat-trick for Lye Town last week and he managed the same feet on his league debut as Lye won 3-2 at Coleshill Town. AFC Wulfrunians got off to a winning start with two goals from Marvin Robinson giving them a 2-0 win over Boldmere St Michaels at Castlecroft. Last season’s runners-up Alvechurch were held 1-1 by Heanor Town at Lye Meadow. Jordan Nadat gave Church the lead in the first half but the Lions drew level through Kieran Debrouwer. Promoted Coventry United got off to the perfect start with an injury time winner from Kai Williams enough to settle the game at Sporting Khalsa. A brace from Michael Reeve gave Shepshed Dynamo all 3 points in a 2-1 home win over Rocester. Relegated Tividale began life back in the Midland Football League with a 2-0 home defeat at the hands of Walsall Wood. Loughborough University followed up their midweek FA Cup win with an opening day league victory over Highgate United, Tom Barnes with the only goal of the game. Shawbury United’s first game in the MFL ended in a 2-1 defeat the hands of Quorn for whom Liam Turner scored twice.
Promoted Coventry United made it two wins out of two as they beat Rocester 2-0 at Sphinx Drive with goals from Brian Ndlovu and Kai Williams. Long Eaton United are also on maximum points following a 3-1 win over Boldmere St Michaels at Grange Park. Boldmere were reduced to 10 men early on when keeper Lewis Fenney saw red. Highgate United were Tuesday’s big winners, 5-1 over Shepshed Dynamo with two goals for Danny Sullivan. Loughborough University were the comeback kings again drawing 3-3 with Lye Town after being 3-1 down into the last 5 minutes. An own goal from Greg Marriott gave Coleshill Town all 3 points in a 3-2 win at Heanor Town. Brocton bounced back from their 8 goal defeat at Coventry Sphinx with a Dan Lomas goal enough to beat Tividale at Silkmore Lane. Alvechurch had two players sent off as they drew 1-1 at promoted St Andrews. Two goals from Andrew Hudson sent Stourport Swifts on their way to a 3-0 win at AFC Wulfrunians.
Westfields maintained their 100% record with an excellent 2-0 win over Sporting Khalsa at Allpay Park. Walsall Wood are also on 6 points from two games after they won 2-1 at promoted Shawbury United. Quorn and Coventry Sphinx both sit on four points after they drew 1-1 at Farley Way.
Division 1
Atherstone Town got off to a flying start with a 4-1 win over Stafford Town at Sheepy Road with new boy Alex Naughton grabbing a hat-trick. Title favourites Bromsgrove Sporting started their season with a 3-0 victory over Southam United in front of 425 at The Victoria Ground. Two goals from Matty Stenson saw Leicester Road on their way to a 3-2 victory over Coventry Copsewood. Nuneaton Griff began with a solid 3-0 victory at Pershore Town. Lichfield City grabbed a late winner through Ben Lund as they beat Studley 2-1 at The Beehive. Uttoxeter Town returned to the Midland Football League and celebrated with a 2-0 win over Chelmsley Town. Much fancied Hinckley AFC were held to a 2-2 draw by Littleton at St Johns Park. Heath Hayes picked up all 3 points with a 2-1 win over Heather St Johns, the winning goal coming 4 minutes from time from Rhys Horton. The games between Cadbury Athletic and Pelsall Villa and Racing Club Warwick and Bolehall Swifts both ended in a 1-1 draws.
Nuneaton Griff made it two wins out of two with a 4-1 win at Uttoxeter Town. Joining Griff on 6 points are Lichfield City who beat Bolehall Swifts 2-1, both goals from Liam Holt. Promoted Chelmsley Town got their season up and running with a 4-1 win over Pershore Town, Gary Turner with a hat-trick. Two goals from Eddie Wilson helped Heather St Johns to a 4-1 win over Coventry
Copsewood. Pelsall Villa recorded an excellent 2-1 win over much fancied Leicester Road with Nathan Stone scoring both goals. Racing Club Warwick picked up 3 points at Studley winning 2-1. Southam United and Cadbury Athletic shared a goalless draw at Banbury Road.
Bromsgrove Sporting made it 6 out of 6 with an impressive 4-0 win at Littleton. Atherstone Town join them on 6 points following a 2-1 win at Sheepy Road over Heath Hayes. A penalty in injury time from Ryan Seal gave Hinckley AFC all three points in a hard fought 2-1 win over Stafford Town at Marston Road.
Division 2
Knowle were the day’s big winners, winning 4-0 at promoted Smithswood Firs with Tom Craine scoring a hat-trick. Two goals from Reuel Prescod helped Barnt Green Spartak to an opening day 5-2 win over Sutton United. Promoted Leamington Hibernian began life in Division 2 with an excellent 4-1 win at Bloxwich Town with Joe Wright scoring three. Fellow promoted side Redditch Borough enjoyed a 3-2 home win over Paget Rangers. A good first day for Feckenham as they won 2-1 at Hampton. Continental Star had to play for 75 minutes with 10 men but a goal from Pedro Douglas gave them a point at Fairfield Villa. Droitwich Spa and Coton Green also shared the points with a 1-1 draw at King George Playing Fields.
Droitwich Spa jumped to the top of the table with a 7-2 win at Feckenham. James Lemon, Nick
Seabourne and Luke Molloy all scoring twice. Redditch Borough are also on four points following a 2-2 draw at Earlswood Town. Fairfield Villa picked up all three points in a 2-1 win at Coton Green.
Promoted Smithswood Firs went down to a narrow 2-1 defeat at home to Paget Rangers. Sutton United picked up their first points of the season with a 2-1 win over Continental Star, Graham Deakin with both of their goals.
Knowle scored 4 goals for the second successive game as they beat Leamington Hibernian 4-1 to take top spot. Alvis Sporting Club began their season with a narrow 1-0 win over Bloxwich Town. Hampton and Barnt Green Spartak shared the spoils with a 1-1 draw at Field Lane.
Division 3
Montpellier began life in the MFL with a 3-2 victory over Moors Academy in front of an excellent crowd of 107, Stuart Hendrie scoring twice. Fellow newcomers NKF Burbage won 3-1 at Alcester Town thanks to hat-trick from Jess Adcock. Castle Vale Town couldn’t make it a hat-trick of wins for the newcomers as they went down 2-0 at home to Coventrians. Northfield Town started with an excellent 3-2 away win at AFC Solihull. Two of last season’s top 6 met at the Holland Sports Ground with victory to visitors FC Stratford, 2-1 at Barton United. Shipston Excelsior won 1-0 at Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons with the only goal from Lewis Fathers.
Reserves
Rocester 1 Gresley 2 (Challenge trophy)
Coton Green 1 Continental Star 6 (Challenge trophy)
Romulus 0 Lichfield City 3 (League)
Tipton Town 2 Brocton 2 (League)
Preview
FA Cup
Heanor Town vs Long Eaton United
On Friday evening, a real heavyweight battle featuring sides that are likely to feature at the top of the MFL Premier Division this season. Long Eaton have made an excellent start to the season with three straight wins. Heanor needed a replay to get past Hinckley AFC in the previous round and have picked up one point from their opening two league games. This promises to be a tight game and could need a replay.
Bedworth United vs Rocester
Bedworth have started life in the Northern Premier League Division 1 South with a creditable draw against Spalding United and a win at Loughborough Dynamo. They will prove tough opposition for Rocester who have lost their opening two league games on the road. A draw would be an excellent result for the Romans.
Chasetown vs Brocton
It’s a case of won one lost one for both of these Staffordshire sides as they meet at The Scholars Ground. The Badgers started with an 8-0 defeat at Coventry Sphinx but bounced back in midweek to beat Tividale. Chasetown lost at home to last season’s runners-up Shaw Lane but then beat highly fancied AFC Rushden and Diamonds on Tuesday. Chasetown will start strong favourites to get through to the next round.
Coleshill Town vs Dudley Sports
Coleshill had a superb run in the FA Cup last season knocking out higher ranked opponents on three occasions. The boot could be on the other foot here as they faced West Midlands League Dudley Sports who knocked out Nuneaton Griff in the previous round. There always seem to be goals around when Coleshill are in action and this game should follow suit.
Hereford vs Alvechurch
Last season’s top two from the MFL Premier Division meet at Edgar Street. The games between the two sides last season were eagerly anticipated and this game has caught the imagination of supporters from both sides. Hereford have start life in the Southern League where they left off with 4 straight victories and goal machine John Mills banging in the goals. Alvechurch have drawn their opening two league games and will be clear underdogs in this one.
Highgate United vs Boldmere St Michaels
Another all MFL game at The Coppice with the sides having contrasting results in midweek. Highgate put 5 past Shepshed Dynamo while the Mikes went down 3-1 at Long Eaton United having keeper Lewis Fenney sent off early in the game. Highgate will start slight favourites but this could be another close encounter.
Coventry United vs Lichfield City
Both sides needed replays to get through to this round. Coventry have made an excellent start to their first season in the Premier Division winning both games without conceding a goal. After an opening day draw, Lichfield picked up three valuable points in midweek to be amongst the early front runners in Division 1. Form points to a home win with a replay being a reasonable target for the visitors.
Kidsgrove Athletic vs Lye Town
If you are looking for a giant killing, this game has all ingredients. Northern Premier South Kidsgrove have lost their opening two games conceding three goals each time. Lye have started well scoring three times in each of their three games. All the talk is of 18-year-old Jack Till who has bagged two hat-tricks and the first in the midweek draw at Loughborough University. A great opportunity for Lye to progress.
Leicester Road vs Harborough Town
Leicester Road face higher ranked opposition in the form of United Counties League Harborough
Town. Harborough have had a mixed start to the season – a 6-0 home defeat at the hands of Peterborough Sports was followed by a 2-1 home win over Kirby Muxloe. Leicester Road have won one lost one in the league but in striker Matty Stenson, could have the player to make the difference.
Loughborough University vs Gresley
Another chance for a giant killing as Northern Premier Division 1 South Gresley travel to face The Students. Four points from their opening two games and two remarkable comebacks, one in the Cup and one in the league, has certainly made it an interesting start for Loughborough. Gresley have picked up 4 points from their opening two games but will see this as a very tough encounter
Rugby Town vs Bromsgrove Sporting
Bromsgrove have to jump a two division gap if they are to progress in this season’s competition. They have started the season well and will go into the game full of confidence. Rugby have picked up one point from their opening two games – a 2-2 draw with Gresley. With a good following behind the Rouslers, this should be a cracking game and atmosphere.
Sporting Khalsa vs Romulus
The FA Cup thrust Khalsa into the limelight last season and I’m sure everyone at the club would like to experience another cup run. Visitors Romulus will not be hoping to make their higher status count – an opening day victory at Sheffield FC getting their season up and running. Khalsa needed a replay to get past Hanley Town in the previous round and it would be no surprise to see a second game between these sides.
Westfields vs Tividale
A third all MFL game of the round at Allpay Park as Westfields welcome Tividale to Herefordshire. Tividale have made a slow start to life in the MFL following relegation last season. Two opening defeats without scoring is not the ideal preparation to face a revamped Westfields. Early indications are that Westfields are in for a good season and a run in the FA Cup would be an added bonus.
Premier Division
A couple of games have been rescheduled due to early exits from the FA Cup. Two sides that had heavy defeats in midweek meet at The Dovecote Stadium as Shepshed Dynamo host AFC Wulfrunians. Shepshed shipped 5 goals for the second time this season so will be looking to shore up the defence. Walsall Wood welcome Quorn to Oak Park with a 100% record after a midweek win at Shawbury United. Quorn are also unbeaten and should provide a significant test for The Wood.
Depending on Cup replays, there are is a full fixture list in midweek. Coventry Sphinx scored 8 at Sphinx Drive on the opening day and will hope to stay in the goals as they entertain pointless Tividale. It promises to be an excellent game at Lye Meadow as Alvechurch welcome Lye Town. Following two draws, Church will want to get their season going while Lye will want to continue their excellent start. Two highly fancied teams meet at Pack meadow as Coventry United take their 100% record to Coleshill Town. Coventry have had eight consecutive clean sheets in the League but that will be tested fully by a side full of goals. Long Eaton United take their 100% record to Loughborough University to face the in-form Students. Given the starts both sides have made expect goals and incidents aplenty. Rocester have made a slow start to the season but return to their Hillsfield home for the first time. The visitors are Highgate United from whom you never quite now what you are going to get. Stourport Swifts welcome league newcomers Shawbury United to Walshes Meadow buoyed by their 3-0 win at AFC Wulfrunians. After a couple of home games, this is Shawbury’s first on the road and they will be hoping to pick up some points. Walsall Wood welcome Brocton to Oak
Park in a repeat of the cup tie from earlier this season. Brocton came out on top in that one but Walsall Wood will expect to turn the tables on their visitors. On Wednesday night, two of last season’s leading clubs meet a The Town Ground. Heanor Town and Sporting Khalsa will expect to be in the mix at the end of the season and a victory for either just puts down a marker. There is a Leicestershire derby at Farley Way with Quorn hosting promoted St Andrews. St Andrews picked up their first point in a home draw against Alvechurch and will be hoping to build on that. Quorn have started brightly and look to have out last year’s disappointing campaign to bed. Westfields have started the season in fine form and welcome Boldmere St Michaels to Allpay Park. The Mikes are on a run of away games while their new 3G pitch is completed. With a return to the Trevor Brown Memorial Ground not expected until October, it could be a difficult few months on the road.
Division 1
Only two games on Saturday due to the FA Cup. Racing Club Warwick welcome Cadbury Athletic to Townsend Meadow with both sides unbeaten after two games. Nuneaton Griff have started the season with two wins and will be looking to make it three out of three when they travel to The Beehive to play Studley. Studley have lost their first two league games and will find Griff a handful.
Some of the midweek fixtures may change should cup replays be in order. Bromsgrove Sporting welcome Hinckley AFC to The Victoria Ground where a crackling atmosphere and good crowd is guaranteed. The Rouslers are most people’s favourites for the Division 1 title this year but Hinckley are expected to be amongst their nearest challengers. Both sides offer a significant goal threat so don’t expect a goalless draw. Coventry Copsewood have got off to a poor start and they travel toThe TSA Sports Ground to see if they can pick up their first points of the season off Cadbury Athletic.
Two sides with a win and a defeat meet at St Johns Park with Heather St johns hosting Uttoxeter Town. Heather had a good 4-1 win at home last time out and will be hoping to make their home ground a bit of a fortress. Leicester Road are expected to be amongst the frontrunners this season and are an extremely difficult side to beat at their Leicester Road home. Visitors Stafford Town have a completely new squad and management team who will need to learn fast if they are to compete in the higher echelons of the table. A big game at the McDonalds Community Stadium as much fancied Lichfield City and Atherstone Town meet. Atherstone have made significant improvements to their squad in the summer and have started the season well. Lichfield were amongst the challengers for most of last season and their revamped squad has already given notice that they will be there or thereabouts. Pelsall Villa had a torrid season last year but have started with 4 points from the opening two games. Visitors Heath Hayes are another side expected to challenge so this game could be an interesting one for the neutral. Pershore Town have made a disappointing start to the campaign with two heavy defeats. Visitors Southam United themselves have only picked up one point so a chance for either side to kick start their season. Promoted Chelmsley Town picked up their first points in Division 1 last week and they travel to a Racing Club Warwick side that have made a decent start. On Wednesday, Littleton welcome Studley to 5 Acres and both sides will be hoping for victories after indifferent starts. Nuneaton Griff welcome Bolehall Swifts to the Pingles Stadium after an excellent start to the campaign. Bolehall are much improved on last season and will provide a stern challenge to new look Griff.
Division 2
Feckenham suffered a 7-2 defeat at the hands of Droitwich Spa in midweek and it doesn’t get any better for The Millers as they travel to face last season’s champions, Alvis Sporting Club. Alvis went through the season unbeaten las year and although that feat is unlikely to be matched, will still be the team to beat. Coton Green and Hampton meet at New Mill Lane with both sides making a slow start to the season. Earlswood Town host Continental Star at The Pavilions. Both sides drew their opening games of the season and expect this one to be a tight affair. Knowle started the season with a 4-0 home while Paget Rangers picked up their first win in midweek so it’s all to play for at The Robins Nest. Promoted Leamington Hibernian have been involved in two 4-1 scorelines this season, one for and one against while visitors Fairfield Villa have also started well with four points out of 6. Redditch Borough move their home game with Barnt Green Spartak to Littleton FC and with both sides making good starts to the season, this promises to be a cracker. Bloxwich Town have lost their opening two games of the season. They travel to Sutton United who picked up their first three-point haul with a win over Continental Star.
On Tuesday evening, Feckenham host Earlswood Town at The Entaco.
Division 3
AFC Solihull welcome Moors Academy to Tudor Grange with both sides looking for their first points of the season. Coventrians started the season with a good away win and travel to Alcester Town to see if they can repeat the feat two weeks running. Enville Athletic get their season underway with a tough looking away fixture at Barton United. FC Stratford picked up an away win on the opening day and go for two wins out of two at Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons. Inkberrow are another side who will make their season bow this week traveling to league newcomers Castle Vale Town. Montpellier made an excellent start to life in the MFL with a home win in front of 107 spectators.
This week they play host to another side who won their opening game of the season, Northfield Town. Two more sides that had opening day victories meet at Kirkby Road as NKF Burbage host Shipston Excelsior.
There is one game on Tuesday night as Moors Academy welcome Inkberrow to The Beehive.
Reserves
Gresley vs Cadbury Athletic
Lichfield City vs Tipton Town
Rocester vs Coton Green
Romulus vs Brocton
Worcester City and Bromsgrove Sporting are pleased to announce that it has been mutually agreed between the two clubs that season ticket holders can attend the home fixtures of the other club for a reduced price.
For Worcester City home fixtures (League only) Bromsgrove Sporting supporters upon the production of their BSFC Season Ticket will be entitled to a reduced admission price of £9 (normal price is £13).
Likewise, for Bromsgrove Sporting home fixtures (League only) Worcester City supporters upon the production of their WCFC Season Ticket will be entitled to a reduced admission price of £4 (normal price is £6).
AFC Wulfrunians are hosting ‘An Evening with Kenny Hibbitt & Steve Daley’ at the Castlecroft Stadium on Friday 2nd September 2016, doors open at 7:30pm.
Tickets, which are selling fast, cost £20 and include a curry meal.
If you want to purchase a ticket, or would like more information, contact Simon Cater on 07870 164631 or e-mail simoncater@hotmail.com
FA Cup
The draw has been made for the 1st Qualifying Round of the FA Cup to take place on the weekend of
September 3rd. Fixtures involving MFL sides are as follows: -
Matlock Town vs Heanor Town or Long Eaton United
Chasetown or Brocton vs Grantham Town
Westfields or Tividale vs St Ives Town
Halesowen Town vs Coleshill Town or Dudley Sports
Highgate United or Boldmere St Michaels vs Leamington
Leicester Road or Harborough Town vs Bottesford Town or Kirby Muxloe
Coventry United or Lichfield City vs Bedworth United or Rocester
Deeping Rangers or Wroxham vs Loughborough University or Gresley
Sporting Khalsa or Romulus vs Hereford or Alvechurch
Rugby Town or Bromsgrove Sporting vs Corby Town
Stafford Rangers vs Kidsgrove Athletic or Lye Town
Travels of the Press Officer
Saturday August 13th
Premier Division (5)
Sporting Khalsa 0 Coventry United 1
The opening of the league season and a trip to one of my regular haunts to see two of the teams expected to challenge for promotion from the Premier Division. Sporting Khalsa had a superb debut season in the MFL finishing thirsd whilst visitors Coventry United have had successive promotions with last season’s Division 1 title being a highlight. The start of the season was greeted with bright sunshine at The Aspray Arena and a decnt crowd welcomed the two teams. Khalsa started much the brighter and could have taken the lead in the third minute. A cross from the right found the head of the unmarked Lee Chilton but he put his header over the bar. Two minutes later, Simeon Townsend skipped clear but his shot was narrowly off target. Coventry’s first attack of note saw Pierre Moudine’s excellent cross cut out by Tesfa Robinson. In the 25th minute, Coventry went agonisingly close to the opening goal. Muzi Nduna beat Tom Turner to the ball but his goalbound effort was brillaintly cleared off the line by Carlo Franco. In the 42nd minute, the Coventry supporters in the stand were on their feet as Josh O’Grady cut in from the left and his right-footed shot was inches wide.
The visitors had claimns for a penalty waved away in the 50th minute when Nduna went down in the area. Moudine continued to cause problems down the Coventry right without anyone getting on the end of the crosses. An excellent run and cross from chilton was well held by Ricahrd Morris, the coventry keeper. In the 65th minute, Marvin Nisbett missed a good chance for Khlsa heading over the bar following a long throw from Franco. The introduction of substitute Matthe Brown added some firepower to the visitor’s frontline. In the 72nd minute, Brown was through on goal but his shot was well saved by tom turner with the Khalsa defence scrambling away the rebound. Coventry were now looking the more confident and a cross from Brian Ndlovu found Brown but his shot was well blocked by john Hill. As the game entered stoppage time, Khalsa were inches away from the lead. A free-kick from Tim Jackson found David Meese at the far post but his shot hit the post and coventry managed to get the ball clear. Two minutes later the deadlock was broken by Coventry. Kai Williams beat John hill to the ball and knocked it past the advancing Turner into the net to send the vociferous support wild. In the 7th minute of time added on (making 15 minutes in total), Franco headed a jackson free-kcik straight at Morris. An excellent game of football between two very good sides. A draw would probably have been a fair result but a single goal was always likely to clinch the points.
Tuesday August 16th
Premier Division (6) Brocton 1 Tividale 0
A glorious sunny evening and a chance to see one of the Premier Division new boys Tividale as they travel to Brocton. Both of these sides had disappointing defeats on Saturday with Brocton shell shocked after an 8-0 defeat at Coventry Sphinx. Brocton had strengthened their side with the addition of Luke Wright from Walsall Wood and he mmade an immediate impact in the centr of midfield. Jack Edwards for the home side was finding space on the right hand side and an early cross was cut out by Karl Gardner. At the other end Luke Morris shot high and wide from a narrow angle. In the 9th minute, Brocton took the lead. Sean kinsell took a croner from the right and Dan lomas headed home unmarked. In the 22nd minute, Brocton wasted a glorious chance. Kinsella robbed
Andre Edwards and sent Dominic Dell clear. Dell beat the tividale keeper Tom Hayward but his shot was off target A minute later, a run and cross from Edwards was played into the path of kinsella but he blasted wide of the target. A good piece of control from Matt Jukes created an opportunity for the Tividale striker but his shot was over the bar. Liam Morris managed to get a shot on target for Tividale but it was easily held by Callum Barrett. In the 39th minute, Jukes forced a fine save from
Barrett and Kenny Devior scrambled the ball to safety. Two minutes later, Brocton went close to a second. Kinsella’s corner was headed on by Matt Skinner and when Ben Taylor planted his header goalwards, Hayward made an excellent save.
Tividale started the second half on the front foot and the Brocton defence were forced to throw themselves in the way of a number of goalbound efforts. Dell found space in the 59th minute but he was foiled by a fine saving tackle. Both sides continued to battle without troubling either keeper. With 10 minutes left, Tividale should have equalised but somehow Liam Morris shot over the bar from insode the 6-yard box. Ticidale were awarded a free-kick just outside the area following a foul by taylor. Jukes lined up his shot but it cannoned off the wall and Brocton held on for their first points of the season.
An excellent evening’s entertainment with plenty of chances at either end.
Wednesday August 17th
Division 1 (7)
Stafford Town 1 Hinckley AFC 2 @ Stafford Rangers FC
With work on installing a new 3G pitch at Evans park continuing, Stafford Town are using the ground of Stafford rangers FC for the visit of Hinckley AFC. Stafford have seen a change in management and squad in the summer and there are only two players from last season in the matchday 16. As usual Hinckley are being talked about as potential promotion candidates and their supporters have travelled in good number to cheer them on. It was the home side that started the brighter with Queenton Mananse having the ball in the net in the third minute but he was ruled offside. Mananse went close a couple of minutes later picking up the ball on the edge of the box but firing over. Hinckley went close in the 10th minute when Rico Taylor’s free-kick was met by the head of Sean
Williams forcing Connor Alderman into a smart save. Mananse tried his luck from distance; a 30 yard free-kick gathered under the bar by Tom Cross. Hinckley should have scored in the 12th minute when Ryan Seal rounded Alderman but his shot was cleared off the line. Williams was causing problems down the right without the end product. Nick Wellecomme was off target with a free-header as Hinckley looked for an opener. The home side took the lead in the 18th minute. A back pass from Lee Thomas caught Cross in two minds and his clearance cannoned off Shepherd Machingauta who rolled in the loose ball. Machingauta should have made it two 8 minutes later but he dragged his shot wide. Both sides were creating chances without hitting the target. Hinckley equalised in the 31st minute when Darius Darkin played a through ball into the path of Seal who slotted it past
Alderman. With half time approaching, Taylor saw his shot blocked while Yann Edimo fired a free-kick just over the bar for the home side.
Stafford went close to restoring their lead just after the break but there was no-one on hand to capitalise on Dan Jones’ cross across the face of goal. In the 52nd minute, Alderman made a fine save keeping out a header from Michael Harvey. Stafford continued to play some enterprising football and from an excellent move, Machingauta forced a fine save from Cross. In the 66th minute, the woodwork saved Hinckley as Mananse’s effort ricocheted off Harvey and bounced off the foot of the post. Stafford again went close in the 71st minute. A quick break out of defence saw Ryan
Blagborough race clear but his shot hit the side-netting. With three minutes left, Wellecomme had a decent chance for Hinckley but he too hit the side-netting. With the game into injury time, Wellecomme was wrestled down in the area and the referee awarded a penalty to Hinckley which
Seal clinically despatched. Three minutes into stoppage time, another mistake by Hinckley keeper Cross gave possession to Machingauta but he couldn’t take advantage. In the 6th minute of stoppage time, Harry Bowers wasted Stafford’s last chance, volleying wide. An excellent night’s entertainment all round although Stafford will be disappointed not to pick up a point their efforts deserved.
Review
Premier Division
Coventry Sphinx were the opening day’s big winners, putting eight goals past Brocton without reply. Mitchell Thomson scored 4 as Sphinx ran into a 4 goal lead inside 19 minutes. Westfields also started with a big win, 4-0 winners at league new boys St Andrews with Dan Polan scoring all 4 inside the first 45 minutes. Long Eaton United started their season with a bang beating Stourport Swifts 5-1 at Grange Park with five different goalscorers. Jack Till was the talk of the FA Cup with his hat-trick for Lye Town last week and he managed the same feet on his league debut as Lye won 3-2 at Coleshill Town. AFC Wulfrunians got off to a winning start with two goals from Marvin Robinson giving them a 2-0 win over Boldmere St Michaels at Castlecroft. Last season’s runners-up Alvechurch were held 1-1 by Heanor Town at Lye Meadow. Jordan Nadat gave Church the lead in the first half but the Lions drew level through Kieran Debrouwer. Promoted Coventry United got off to the perfect start with an injury time winner from Kai Williams enough to settle the game at Sporting Khalsa. A brace from Michael Reeve gave Shepshed Dynamo all 3 points in a 2-1 home win over Rocester. Relegated Tividale began life back in the Midland Football League with a 2-0 home defeat at the hands of Walsall Wood. Loughborough University followed up their midweek FA Cup win with an opening day league victory over Highgate United, Tom Barnes with the only goal of the game. Shawbury United’s first game in the MFL ended in a 2-1 defeat the hands of Quorn for whom Liam Turner scored twice.
Promoted Coventry United made it two wins out of two as they beat Rocester 2-0 at Sphinx Drive with goals from Brian Ndlovu and Kai Williams. Long Eaton United are also on maximum points following a 3-1 win over Boldmere St Michaels at Grange Park. Boldmere were reduced to 10 men early on when keeper Lewis Fenney saw red. Highgate United were Tuesday’s big winners, 5-1 over Shepshed Dynamo with two goals for Danny Sullivan. Loughborough University were the comeback kings again drawing 3-3 with Lye Town after being 3-1 down into the last 5 minutes. An own goal from Greg Marriott gave Coleshill Town all 3 points in a 3-2 win at Heanor Town. Brocton bounced back from their 8 goal defeat at Coventry Sphinx with a Dan Lomas goal enough to beat Tividale at Silkmore Lane. Alvechurch had two players sent off as they drew 1-1 at promoted St Andrews. Two goals from Andrew Hudson sent Stourport Swifts on their way to a 3-0 win at AFC Wulfrunians.
Westfields maintained their 100% record with an excellent 2-0 win over Sporting Khalsa at Allpay Park. Walsall Wood are also on 6 points from two games after they won 2-1 at promoted Shawbury United. Quorn and Coventry Sphinx both sit on four points after they drew 1-1 at Farley Way.
Division 1
Atherstone Town got off to a flying start with a 4-1 win over Stafford Town at Sheepy Road with new boy Alex Naughton grabbing a hat-trick. Title favourites Bromsgrove Sporting started their season with a 3-0 victory over Southam United in front of 425 at The Victoria Ground. Two goals from Matty Stenson saw Leicester Road on their way to a 3-2 victory over Coventry Copsewood. Nuneaton Griff began with a solid 3-0 victory at Pershore Town. Lichfield City grabbed a late winner through Ben Lund as they beat Studley 2-1 at The Beehive. Uttoxeter Town returned to the Midland Football League and celebrated with a 2-0 win over Chelmsley Town. Much fancied Hinckley AFC were held to a 2-2 draw by Littleton at St Johns Park. Heath Hayes picked up all 3 points with a 2-1 win over Heather St Johns, the winning goal coming 4 minutes from time from Rhys Horton. The games between Cadbury Athletic and Pelsall Villa and Racing Club Warwick and Bolehall Swifts both ended in a 1-1 draws.
Nuneaton Griff made it two wins out of two with a 4-1 win at Uttoxeter Town. Joining Griff on 6 points are Lichfield City who beat Bolehall Swifts 2-1, both goals from Liam Holt. Promoted Chelmsley Town got their season up and running with a 4-1 win over Pershore Town, Gary Turner with a hat-trick. Two goals from Eddie Wilson helped Heather St Johns to a 4-1 win over Coventry
Copsewood. Pelsall Villa recorded an excellent 2-1 win over much fancied Leicester Road with Nathan Stone scoring both goals. Racing Club Warwick picked up 3 points at Studley winning 2-1. Southam United and Cadbury Athletic shared a goalless draw at Banbury Road.
Bromsgrove Sporting made it 6 out of 6 with an impressive 4-0 win at Littleton. Atherstone Town join them on 6 points following a 2-1 win at Sheepy Road over Heath Hayes. A penalty in injury time from Ryan Seal gave Hinckley AFC all three points in a hard fought 2-1 win over Stafford Town at Marston Road.
Division 2
Knowle were the day’s big winners, winning 4-0 at promoted Smithswood Firs with Tom Craine scoring a hat-trick. Two goals from Reuel Prescod helped Barnt Green Spartak to an opening day 5-2 win over Sutton United. Promoted Leamington Hibernian began life in Division 2 with an excellent 4-1 win at Bloxwich Town with Joe Wright scoring three. Fellow promoted side Redditch Borough enjoyed a 3-2 home win over Paget Rangers. A good first day for Feckenham as they won 2-1 at Hampton. Continental Star had to play for 75 minutes with 10 men but a goal from Pedro Douglas gave them a point at Fairfield Villa. Droitwich Spa and Coton Green also shared the points with a 1-1 draw at King George Playing Fields.
Droitwich Spa jumped to the top of the table with a 7-2 win at Feckenham. James Lemon, Nick
Seabourne and Luke Molloy all scoring twice. Redditch Borough are also on four points following a 2-2 draw at Earlswood Town. Fairfield Villa picked up all three points in a 2-1 win at Coton Green.
Promoted Smithswood Firs went down to a narrow 2-1 defeat at home to Paget Rangers. Sutton United picked up their first points of the season with a 2-1 win over Continental Star, Graham Deakin with both of their goals.
Knowle scored 4 goals for the second successive game as they beat Leamington Hibernian 4-1 to take top spot. Alvis Sporting Club began their season with a narrow 1-0 win over Bloxwich Town. Hampton and Barnt Green Spartak shared the spoils with a 1-1 draw at Field Lane.
Division 3
Montpellier began life in the MFL with a 3-2 victory over Moors Academy in front of an excellent crowd of 107, Stuart Hendrie scoring twice. Fellow newcomers NKF Burbage won 3-1 at Alcester Town thanks to hat-trick from Jess Adcock. Castle Vale Town couldn’t make it a hat-trick of wins for the newcomers as they went down 2-0 at home to Coventrians. Northfield Town started with an excellent 3-2 away win at AFC Solihull. Two of last season’s top 6 met at the Holland Sports Ground with victory to visitors FC Stratford, 2-1 at Barton United. Shipston Excelsior won 1-0 at Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons with the only goal from Lewis Fathers.
Reserves
Rocester 1 Gresley 2 (Challenge trophy)
Coton Green 1 Continental Star 6 (Challenge trophy)
Romulus 0 Lichfield City 3 (League)
Tipton Town 2 Brocton 2 (League)
Preview
FA Cup
Heanor Town vs Long Eaton United
On Friday evening, a real heavyweight battle featuring sides that are likely to feature at the top of the MFL Premier Division this season. Long Eaton have made an excellent start to the season with three straight wins. Heanor needed a replay to get past Hinckley AFC in the previous round and have picked up one point from their opening two league games. This promises to be a tight game and could need a replay.
Bedworth United vs Rocester
Bedworth have started life in the Northern Premier League Division 1 South with a creditable draw against Spalding United and a win at Loughborough Dynamo. They will prove tough opposition for Rocester who have lost their opening two league games on the road. A draw would be an excellent result for the Romans.
Chasetown vs Brocton
It’s a case of won one lost one for both of these Staffordshire sides as they meet at The Scholars Ground. The Badgers started with an 8-0 defeat at Coventry Sphinx but bounced back in midweek to beat Tividale. Chasetown lost at home to last season’s runners-up Shaw Lane but then beat highly fancied AFC Rushden and Diamonds on Tuesday. Chasetown will start strong favourites to get through to the next round.
Coleshill Town vs Dudley Sports
Coleshill had a superb run in the FA Cup last season knocking out higher ranked opponents on three occasions. The boot could be on the other foot here as they faced West Midlands League Dudley Sports who knocked out Nuneaton Griff in the previous round. There always seem to be goals around when Coleshill are in action and this game should follow suit.
Hereford vs Alvechurch
Last season’s top two from the MFL Premier Division meet at Edgar Street. The games between the two sides last season were eagerly anticipated and this game has caught the imagination of supporters from both sides. Hereford have start life in the Southern League where they left off with 4 straight victories and goal machine John Mills banging in the goals. Alvechurch have drawn their opening two league games and will be clear underdogs in this one.
Highgate United vs Boldmere St Michaels
Another all MFL game at The Coppice with the sides having contrasting results in midweek. Highgate put 5 past Shepshed Dynamo while the Mikes went down 3-1 at Long Eaton United having keeper Lewis Fenney sent off early in the game. Highgate will start slight favourites but this could be another close encounter.
Coventry United vs Lichfield City
Both sides needed replays to get through to this round. Coventry have made an excellent start to their first season in the Premier Division winning both games without conceding a goal. After an opening day draw, Lichfield picked up three valuable points in midweek to be amongst the early front runners in Division 1. Form points to a home win with a replay being a reasonable target for the visitors.
Kidsgrove Athletic vs Lye Town
If you are looking for a giant killing, this game has all ingredients. Northern Premier South Kidsgrove have lost their opening two games conceding three goals each time. Lye have started well scoring three times in each of their three games. All the talk is of 18-year-old Jack Till who has bagged two hat-tricks and the first in the midweek draw at Loughborough University. A great opportunity for Lye to progress.
Leicester Road vs Harborough Town
Leicester Road face higher ranked opposition in the form of United Counties League Harborough
Town. Harborough have had a mixed start to the season – a 6-0 home defeat at the hands of Peterborough Sports was followed by a 2-1 home win over Kirby Muxloe. Leicester Road have won one lost one in the league but in striker Matty Stenson, could have the player to make the difference.
Loughborough University vs Gresley
Another chance for a giant killing as Northern Premier Division 1 South Gresley travel to face The Students. Four points from their opening two games and two remarkable comebacks, one in the Cup and one in the league, has certainly made it an interesting start for Loughborough. Gresley have picked up 4 points from their opening two games but will see this as a very tough encounter
Rugby Town vs Bromsgrove Sporting
Bromsgrove have to jump a two division gap if they are to progress in this season’s competition. They have started the season well and will go into the game full of confidence. Rugby have picked up one point from their opening two games – a 2-2 draw with Gresley. With a good following behind the Rouslers, this should be a cracking game and atmosphere.
Sporting Khalsa vs Romulus
The FA Cup thrust Khalsa into the limelight last season and I’m sure everyone at the club would like to experience another cup run. Visitors Romulus will not be hoping to make their higher status count – an opening day victory at Sheffield FC getting their season up and running. Khalsa needed a replay to get past Hanley Town in the previous round and it would be no surprise to see a second game between these sides.
Westfields vs Tividale
A third all MFL game of the round at Allpay Park as Westfields welcome Tividale to Herefordshire. Tividale have made a slow start to life in the MFL following relegation last season. Two opening defeats without scoring is not the ideal preparation to face a revamped Westfields. Early indications are that Westfields are in for a good season and a run in the FA Cup would be an added bonus.
Premier Division
A couple of games have been rescheduled due to early exits from the FA Cup. Two sides that had heavy defeats in midweek meet at The Dovecote Stadium as Shepshed Dynamo host AFC Wulfrunians. Shepshed shipped 5 goals for the second time this season so will be looking to shore up the defence. Walsall Wood welcome Quorn to Oak Park with a 100% record after a midweek win at Shawbury United. Quorn are also unbeaten and should provide a significant test for The Wood.
Depending on Cup replays, there are is a full fixture list in midweek. Coventry Sphinx scored 8 at Sphinx Drive on the opening day and will hope to stay in the goals as they entertain pointless Tividale. It promises to be an excellent game at Lye Meadow as Alvechurch welcome Lye Town. Following two draws, Church will want to get their season going while Lye will want to continue their excellent start. Two highly fancied teams meet at Pack meadow as Coventry United take their 100% record to Coleshill Town. Coventry have had eight consecutive clean sheets in the League but that will be tested fully by a side full of goals. Long Eaton United take their 100% record to Loughborough University to face the in-form Students. Given the starts both sides have made expect goals and incidents aplenty. Rocester have made a slow start to the season but return to their Hillsfield home for the first time. The visitors are Highgate United from whom you never quite now what you are going to get. Stourport Swifts welcome league newcomers Shawbury United to Walshes Meadow buoyed by their 3-0 win at AFC Wulfrunians. After a couple of home games, this is Shawbury’s first on the road and they will be hoping to pick up some points. Walsall Wood welcome Brocton to Oak
Park in a repeat of the cup tie from earlier this season. Brocton came out on top in that one but Walsall Wood will expect to turn the tables on their visitors. On Wednesday night, two of last season’s leading clubs meet a The Town Ground. Heanor Town and Sporting Khalsa will expect to be in the mix at the end of the season and a victory for either just puts down a marker. There is a Leicestershire derby at Farley Way with Quorn hosting promoted St Andrews. St Andrews picked up their first point in a home draw against Alvechurch and will be hoping to build on that. Quorn have started brightly and look to have out last year’s disappointing campaign to bed. Westfields have started the season in fine form and welcome Boldmere St Michaels to Allpay Park. The Mikes are on a run of away games while their new 3G pitch is completed. With a return to the Trevor Brown Memorial Ground not expected until October, it could be a difficult few months on the road.
Division 1
Only two games on Saturday due to the FA Cup. Racing Club Warwick welcome Cadbury Athletic to Townsend Meadow with both sides unbeaten after two games. Nuneaton Griff have started the season with two wins and will be looking to make it three out of three when they travel to The Beehive to play Studley. Studley have lost their first two league games and will find Griff a handful.
Some of the midweek fixtures may change should cup replays be in order. Bromsgrove Sporting welcome Hinckley AFC to The Victoria Ground where a crackling atmosphere and good crowd is guaranteed. The Rouslers are most people’s favourites for the Division 1 title this year but Hinckley are expected to be amongst their nearest challengers. Both sides offer a significant goal threat so don’t expect a goalless draw. Coventry Copsewood have got off to a poor start and they travel toThe TSA Sports Ground to see if they can pick up their first points of the season off Cadbury Athletic.
Two sides with a win and a defeat meet at St Johns Park with Heather St johns hosting Uttoxeter Town. Heather had a good 4-1 win at home last time out and will be hoping to make their home ground a bit of a fortress. Leicester Road are expected to be amongst the frontrunners this season and are an extremely difficult side to beat at their Leicester Road home. Visitors Stafford Town have a completely new squad and management team who will need to learn fast if they are to compete in the higher echelons of the table. A big game at the McDonalds Community Stadium as much fancied Lichfield City and Atherstone Town meet. Atherstone have made significant improvements to their squad in the summer and have started the season well. Lichfield were amongst the challengers for most of last season and their revamped squad has already given notice that they will be there or thereabouts. Pelsall Villa had a torrid season last year but have started with 4 points from the opening two games. Visitors Heath Hayes are another side expected to challenge so this game could be an interesting one for the neutral. Pershore Town have made a disappointing start to the campaign with two heavy defeats. Visitors Southam United themselves have only picked up one point so a chance for either side to kick start their season. Promoted Chelmsley Town picked up their first points in Division 1 last week and they travel to a Racing Club Warwick side that have made a decent start. On Wednesday, Littleton welcome Studley to 5 Acres and both sides will be hoping for victories after indifferent starts. Nuneaton Griff welcome Bolehall Swifts to the Pingles Stadium after an excellent start to the campaign. Bolehall are much improved on last season and will provide a stern challenge to new look Griff.
Division 2
Feckenham suffered a 7-2 defeat at the hands of Droitwich Spa in midweek and it doesn’t get any better for The Millers as they travel to face last season’s champions, Alvis Sporting Club. Alvis went through the season unbeaten las year and although that feat is unlikely to be matched, will still be the team to beat. Coton Green and Hampton meet at New Mill Lane with both sides making a slow start to the season. Earlswood Town host Continental Star at The Pavilions. Both sides drew their opening games of the season and expect this one to be a tight affair. Knowle started the season with a 4-0 home while Paget Rangers picked up their first win in midweek so it’s all to play for at The Robins Nest. Promoted Leamington Hibernian have been involved in two 4-1 scorelines this season, one for and one against while visitors Fairfield Villa have also started well with four points out of 6. Redditch Borough move their home game with Barnt Green Spartak to Littleton FC and with both sides making good starts to the season, this promises to be a cracker. Bloxwich Town have lost their opening two games of the season. They travel to Sutton United who picked up their first three-point haul with a win over Continental Star.
On Tuesday evening, Feckenham host Earlswood Town at The Entaco.
Division 3
AFC Solihull welcome Moors Academy to Tudor Grange with both sides looking for their first points of the season. Coventrians started the season with a good away win and travel to Alcester Town to see if they can repeat the feat two weeks running. Enville Athletic get their season underway with a tough looking away fixture at Barton United. FC Stratford picked up an away win on the opening day and go for two wins out of two at Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons. Inkberrow are another side who will make their season bow this week traveling to league newcomers Castle Vale Town. Montpellier made an excellent start to life in the MFL with a home win in front of 107 spectators.
This week they play host to another side who won their opening game of the season, Northfield Town. Two more sides that had opening day victories meet at Kirkby Road as NKF Burbage host Shipston Excelsior.
There is one game on Tuesday night as Moors Academy welcome Inkberrow to The Beehive.
Reserves
Gresley vs Cadbury Athletic
Lichfield City vs Tipton Town
Rocester vs Coton Green
Romulus vs Brocton
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