League News

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
Westfields vs St Ives Town
Halesowen Town vs Coleshill Town
Highgate United vs Leamington
Leicester Road vs Kirby Muxloe
Coventry United vs Bedworth United

Amanda Jones, the Secretary of Heanor Town, is participating in Brave the Shave on Sunday 28thAugust. All donations via the link at the bottom

This is a national campaign run by Macmillan to raise funds for helping people in their homes when suffering from Terminal Cancer. I feel the need to do this as I lost my Dad to cancer 2 years ago, he was a huge Character and kit man at Heanor Town for a number of years. He got diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus in November 2013 and we were informed in December 2013 that he only had a year to live. He was offered palliative chemotherapy but after 2 sessions this was withdrawn as it was making him too ill. By February of the following year, he was confined to bed at home and I finished work for a couple of months to help mum care for him. He lost his battle with the disease in April 2014 just 4 months after being diagnosed.
We couldn't have got through it without the help we had from Macmillan they provided the whole family with support on hearing my Dads Diagnosis and they helped my Dad come to terms with what was happening to him. In the latter stages of his life, they also provided carers so that we as a family could spend quality time with him and also have time for ourselves to come to terms with what was happening.
Both my Family and I still miss him terribly but I feel that I am now ready to raise awareness of the disease and help other families who find themselves in the same position as we did and hope to raise somewhere in the region of £1500 for Macmillan to continue their outstanding work in providing care for people who face this horrible disease on a daily basis.
The shave will take place next Sunday at Heanor Town Football Club at 5.00pm approximately and I would ask people if they could to donate on the below link or contact me directly if they don't wish to donate online.
https://bravetheshave.org.uk/shavers/amanda-jones-2/

Travels of the Press Officer
Friday, August 19th
FA Cup Preliminary Round (8)
Heanor Town 3 Long Eaton United 2
With an away tie at Matlock Town on offer for the victors, these two sides were expected to provide a close battle at The Town Ground. Long Eaton started the brighter. In the 5th minutes, a deep ball from Deon Meikle had Heanor keeper Joe McCormack scrambling back but the ball dropped just over the bar. The Long Eaton front three of Ricketts, Kevin Hemagou and Jerome O'Connor were proving a threat and a cross from O'Connor caught Rickets marginally offside. In the 15th minute,
Lomg Eaton keeper, Jamie Hannis reacted well to take the ball off the foot of Nathan Benger.
Heanor were gradually posing more of a threat and a low ball from Kennan Layton was saved by Hannis. In the 26th minute. An excellent corner from Layton caused panic in the Long Eaton defence but no-one could convert. As Heanor played the ball forward, Joe Naylor raced through on goal but Hannis saved well from an excellent shot. Heanor were now having a good spell and Kieran Debrouwer and Elliott Reeves forced saves from Hannis. Hemagou had a half chance for Long Eaton but volleyed wide from Tom Marshall's knock down. In the 38th minute, Hemagou turned his defender inside out but his cross was just behind Ricketts. Long Eaton took the lead in the 40th minute. An excellent break down the left from O'Connor was played inside and Rickets made no mistake. In stoppage time, another Layton corner was headed goalwards by Benger but Hannis saved well.
Heanor were back on level terms 5 minutes after the break. A Layton corner was headed goalwards by Debrouwere and captain Chris Smith was on hand to turn it home from close range. Back came Long Eaton and O’Connor twice went close, seeing a volley blocked and a shot saved at the near post by McCormack. Long Eaton regained the lead in the 64th minute. An excellent through ball from
Kuwesi Ofushine picked out O'Coonor who nipped in in front of McCormack to slot home. The weather now deteriorated with gale force winds and driving rain making it difficult to control the ball. Heanor were not giving this one up and equalised in the 832nd minute When Smith lashed home a loose ball for his second. In the 88th minute, tempers frayed when O'Connor reacted to a strong challenge from Smith. The referee consulted his linesman and decided to show O'Connor a yellow card but the time it took to reach the decision were to become crucial. In the 7th minute of stoppage time, Heanor were awarded a free-kick to the right of the penalty area. Debrouwere delivered the perfect ball into the box and Naylor supplied a superb headed finish to send Heanor through to the next round.
A fantastic cup-tie and a great comeback from the Lions.

Saturday, August 20th
FA Cup preliminary Round (9)
Hereford 4 Alvechurch 2
These two sides served up stirring battles last season as they slugged it out for the MFl title.
Champions Hereford had started life in the Southern League in fine fettle, winning their first four games. The crowd of the round had turned up at Edgar Street to see who would make it to the 1st qualifying round. Alvechurch shocked Hereford by taking the lead after just 52 seconds. Jamie Willetts found Jack Cresswell on the edge of the area. Cresswell stepped up and planted the free-kick into the corner with Martin Horsell rooted to the spot. Worse was to follow for the Bulls in the 11th minute. Cresswell sent Josh Sarmento running clear and the young Portuguese winger, supplied a wonderful finish to put Church 2-0 ahead. In the 14th minute, Andrew Parsons was just off target as Alvechurch dominated. Sarmento went close to a second in the 29th minute, cutting inside from the left and forcing Horsell into a fine save. Hereford’s first attempt on goal came in the 32nd minute whenPablo Haysham hit the side netting.
Hereford made a change at half-time bring on Mike Symons to add physicality and guile to the front line. However it was Alvechurch who had the next chance, Simon Williams volleying over from Cresswell’s pass. Hereford had a decent chance in the 64th minute when Chris Barker headed over at the back post from a Haysham free-kick. In the 66th minute, a cross from Zack Foster was dropping underneath the bar forcing Horsell to tip over. The introduction of former Westfields striker Jamie Cuss made an immediate impact. Hereford pulled a goal back in the 67th minute when Cuss managed to get the wrong side of the Alvechurch defence and played the ball inside to John Mills who made no mistake – Hereford's first shot on target in the game. Within a minute the home side were level, The ball was played across the area, Symons touched it on and there was Cuss at the far post to tap it home. The whole complexion of the game had changed and Haysham volleyed over as the Bulls turned the screw. They took the lead in the 70 the minute, their third goal in 4 minutes. A long throw fell at the feet of Symons and he volleyed home. It was ll Hereford now, and Cuss and Mills combined only for Mills to hit the outside of the post. In the 86th minute, Alvechurch though they had levelled as Josh March's diving header flew past Horsell into the net. Unfortunately for Church, the linesman's flag was up for offside. Down the other end came Hereford and when Connor Deards tripped Haysham, the referee had no option other than to award a penalty. Up stepped Mills to make it 4-2 an unfair reflection on an excellent performance from Alvechurch.

Tuesday, August 23rd
Premier Division (10)
Walsall Wood 3 Brocton 1
My first visit of the season to Oak Park, and as usual the welcome from all involved is warm and friendly. The Wood are constantly in the top 6 of the division and with an improved squad this season are expected to challenge. Visitors Brocton have conceded 17 goals in two previous away game and are looking for a significant improvement. With players unavailable due to holiday and injury, they had strengthened prior to the game bringing in Michael Williams from Hednesford Town on dual registration. There was also a place in the starting line up for Harry Flowers, the grandson of former England international Ron Flowers. It was the home side that started the quickest, new signing Mick Wright volleying wide in the 2nd minute. Sam Williams was also off target with another effort for The Wood before they took the lead in the 11th minute. Full-back Luke Adams found space on the right and his inch-perfect cross was finished first-time by Joey Butlin. Within 5 minutes,
Walsall Wood doubled their lead. Adams was again the creator, his cross missed by Harry Harris but Butlin was on hand to score his second. Adams was being given far too much space and from another cross, Butlin chested into the path of Wright whose shot was blocked. Harris was just wide with a free-kick but Brocton gradually managed to establish a foothold in the game. Wood keeper
Curtis Pond reacted quickly, racing off his line to clear the ball away from the dangerous Jack Edwards. A free-kick from David Berks was comfortably held by Pond. In the 36th minute, Butlin went close to a hat-trick but his shot was turned past the post by Aiden Stone. Brocton pulled a goal back 4 minutes before the break when Williams played the ball into the box and Berks tapped it home. Two minutes into first-half stoppage time, Wood increased their lead. Wright's volley looked to be going wide but it was headed past his own keeper by Ben Taylor.
The Wood really should have sewn up all three points 6 minutes after the break but Richard Huckfield inexplicably headed wide when unmarked. Brocton were having more of the play and substitute Domin Greene rode a couple of challenges before shooting wide. Corey Carruthers thought he had scored for the home side but Stone smothered the ball on the line. With two minutes left, a brilliant save from Pond turned away a Dan Lomas volley for the Badgers. In stoppage time, a mistake by Stone, gave an open goal to Carruthers however he managed to hit the post and the danger was past. A candidate for miss of the season in August!
A tale of two halves with Walsall Wood getting the early lead and sitting on it. Brocton came back and looked stronger as the match wore on. A deserved victory for the home side but encouraging signs for the Badgers.

Review
FA Cup
Pride of place in the Preliminary Round goes to Leicester Road who beat Step 5 opponents to set up a home tie with Kirby Muxloe. Harborough Town were the visitors and they were despatched 3-1 with goals from Tom McGlinchey, Greg Downes and Matty Stenson. Coventry United set up an intriguing local derby with Bedworth United after they beat Division 1 Lichfield City by 5 goals to one, Josh O’Grady netting twice. Bedworth United progressed by beating Rocester 3-2 despite being reduced to 10-men., in a game of four penalties. Brocton had a second successive Saturday to forget as they were trounced 9-0 at Chasetown. The Badgers were 4-0 down inside 20 minutes and then conceded 5 goals in the last 25 minutes, Jack Langston scoring three for Chasetown. Coleshill Town are on the FA Cup trail again following a 4-0 win over Dudley Sports at Pack Meadow. Their reward is a trip to Step 3 Halesowen Town. Alvechurch came close to upsetting Hereford at Edgar Street. Church took the lead after just 52 seconds and doubled it in the 11th minute. Hereford’s first shot on target came in the 67th minute but it resulted in a goal and within three minutes they had taken the lead, 4-2 the final score. A goal 4 minutes from time from McCauley Manning sent Highgate United through at the expense of league rivals Boldmere St Michaels. LyeTown travelled to Staffordshire to tackle step 4 Kidsgrove Athletic but it was the home side that prevailed with a 2-0 victory.
Loughborough University had high hopes of causing an upset against Gresley but a first half sending off handed the advantage to the visitors who won 4-1. Bromsgrove Sporting had the better of the game against Rugby Town at Butlin Road but their efforts were in vain as a David Kolodynski goal 7 minutes from time gave Rugby the victory. There will be no cup run for Sporting Khalsa this season as they were beaten 2-1 by Romulus at the Aspray Arena. Westfields have started the season in imperious form and they put visitors Tividale to the sword, winning 5-1. James Baldwin scored twice as Westfields were 5 goals to the good after 26 minutes. Their reward is a home tie against Southern premier, St Ives Town.

Premier Division
Shepshed Dynamo made it two wins out of three with a comfortable 5-1 victory over AFC Wulfrunians with Michael Reeve scoring twice. Walsall Wood lost their 100% record as they were beaten 3-0 by Quorn at Oak Park. Quorn take over at the top of the table picking up 7 points from their opening three games.
Tividale picked up their first point of the season with a 1-1 draw at Coventry Sphinx on Monday evening, Jamie Hunt with a second-half equaliser. On Tuesday, Walsall Wood took over at the top of the table with a 3-1 win over Brocton, two goals inside the first 16 minutes from Joey Butlin sending them on their way. Coventry United lost their 100% record, going down to a heavy defeat at Coleshill Town, 4-0 the final score. Another 100% record to go was that of Long Eaton United, beaten 3-1 at Loughborough University for whom Matthew Crookes netted twice. The win moves the Students up to 3rd place. Lye Town are just one place back following a 1-0 win at Alvechurch, Ben Bellingham with the goal. Rocester are still looking for their first points of the campaign. Isaac Jagroup scored both goals for Highgate United in a 2-1 win. Also to break their duck are Shawbury United who were beaten 3-1 at Stourport Swifts.
Westfields made it three wins out of three without conceding on Wednesday when they edged past Boldmere St Michaels thanks to a Jamie Molyneux goal. Sporting Khalsa are still searching for their first points off the season as they went down 2-1 at Heanor Town. Quorn returned to the top of the table with a 2-1 win over St Andrews at Farley Way

Division 1
Nuneaton Griff lost their 100% record as they were beaten 3-2 by Studley at The Beehive. Connoll Farrell scored twice for Studley who pick up their first points of the season. Racing Club Warwick and Cadbury Athletic remain unbeaten as they fought out a 2-2 draw at Townsend Meadow.
Bromsgrove Sporting maintained their 100% record with a 3-0 win over Hinckley AFC in front of 424 at The Victoria Ground, Ahmed Ali scoring twice. They are joined on maximum points by Lichfield City who took the first points of the season off Atherstone Town with a 5-0 win. Jordan Evans and Luke Chapman both scored twice for Lichfield. Racing Club Warwick are third following a 3-1 win over promoted Chelmsley Town, Jamie Smith scoring twice. There was a seven-goal thriller at St Johns Park as Heather St Johns beat Uttoxeter Town 4-3, Joel Ambulu and Nathaniel Lewars with a two apiece. A Jamie Clarke double gave Pershore Town their first points of the season in a 2-0 win over Southam United. Coventry Copsewood remain without a point following a 2-0 defeat at Cadbury Athletic. Stafford Town are also searching for their first point, losing 3-1 at Leicester Road. Brad Grice scored a hat-trick for Heath Hayes as they won 3-2 at Pelsall Villa.
On Wednesday, ten-man Nuneaton Griff were beaten 3-0 by Bolehall Swifts at The Pingles Stadium. Littleton picked up their first win of the season beating Studley 3-1 at 5Acres.

Division 2
Barnt Green Spartak take over the top spot, a Kevon Henry goal giving them all three points at Redditch Borough. Fairfield Villa are level on points with Spartak after they picked up all 3 points in a 3-1 win at Leamington Hibernian. Knowle lost their 100% record with a 2-1 home defeat at the hands of Paget Rangers. George Ford scored 4 times as Sutton United beat Bloxwich Town 5-1.
Daniel Campbell scored twice for Coton Green in a 3-0 victory over Hampton at New Mill Lane. Feckenham bounced back from their heavy defeat at the hands of Droitwich Spa picking up a point in a goalless draw at Alvis Sporting Club. Earlswood Town picked up their first win of the season, beating Continental Star 2-0 at The Pavilions.
There were goals aplenty at the Entaco on Tuesday as Feckenham beat Earlswood Town 4-3. Mark O’Donnell scored twice for Earlswood but he was surpassed by George Tolley who scored a hat-trick for the Millers.

Division 3
Montpellier are the early leaders, beating Northfield Town 5-1 at Badsey to keep up their 100% start to the season. Lee Hendrie and Simeon Smith both scoring twice for the Pellers. Fellow newcomers NKF Burbage are also on 6 points after a 2-0 home win over Shipston Excelsior. FC Stratford made it two wins out of two with a 4-1 victory at Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons. Inkberrow started their season with an emphatic 5-0 victory at Castle Vale Town, 5 different players on the scoresheet. Barton United picked up their first points of the season with a 2-0 win over Enville Athletic. Alcester
Town beat Coventrians 2-0 at Old Stratford Road. Moors Academy picked up their first points in the Midland Football League, a goal from skipper Liam Taylor enough to beat AFC Solihull at Tudor Grange.
There was a seven-goal thriller at the Beehive as Moors Academy edged out Inkberrow 4-3, Romario Martin with a brace.

Reserves
Gresley 0 Cadbury Athletic 1
Lichfield City 10 (TEN) Tipton Town 3
Rocester 7 Coton Green 0
Romulus 5 Brocton 3

Preview
Premier Division
August Bank Holiday weekend brings a double-header of fixtures for all of our teams. Brocton have had a mixed start to the season and they welcome Shepshed Dynamo to Silkmore Lane in another tough encounter. Both sides have struggled on their travels with heavy defeats. Coventry United lost their 100% record in midweek with a heavy defeat at Coleshill Town. AFC Wulfrunians won their opening game but have lost heavily in their last two games and a trip to Sphinx Drive will be tough for them. Highgate United have started the season well and they welcome Boldmere St Michaels to The Coppice. The Mikes are finding it tough with a succession of away games due to their own ground not being ready and it will not get any easier this week. Last year's runner-up Alvechurch have made a disappointing star5t with just two points from their opening three games. They travel to Long Eaton United who themselves come into the game on the back of two defeats after a fine start. Rocester have made a slow start to the season with three straight defeats. Unbeaten Coventry Sphinx are the visitors to Hillsfield on the back of a midweek draw against Tividale. Two of the promoted sides meet at Wem with Shawbury United hosting St Andrews, both sides looking for points. Two sides with contrasting starts are Sporting Khalsa and Lye Town, with Lye unbeaten in three. Khalsa will want to kick-start their season at The Aspray Arena. Quorn have made an excellent start to the season sitting on top of the table after 4 games. They travel to Stourport Swifts who have responded with two wins following an opening day defeat. Tividale have found points hard to come by following their relegation from the Evostik League. Visitors Loughborough University have started brightly with seven points from their opening 3 games. Walsall Wood went top of the table on Tuesday evening and welcome free-scoring Coleshill Town to Oak Park in an attractive looking fixture. Westfields have started the season on fire and they entertain a Heanor Town side that have had a mixed start to the season.

Bank Holiday Monday
Coventry Sphinx v Coleshill Town
Heanor Town v Long Eaton United
Highgate United v Alvechurch
Loughborough University v Quorn
Rocester v Brocton (1945)
St Andrews v Shepshed Dynamo
Sporting Khalsa v Walsall Wood
Stourport Swifts v Westfields
Tividale v Lye Town
Tuesday 30th August
AFC Wulfrunians v Shawbury United (1945)
Coventry United v Boldmere St Michaels (1945)

Division 1
Atherstone Town welcome Pershore Town to Sheepy Road hoping to bounce back from the 5 goal defeat at Lichfield City in midweek. Bromsgrove Sporting have started the campaign with a hat-trick of wins with no goals concede and they take their table-topping form to Cadbury Athletic, themselves unbeaten in four games. FA Cup giant killers Leicester Road travel to Pack Meadow to face newly promoted Chelmsley Town. Coventry Copsewood are still looking for their first points of the season and they travel to Staffordshire to face Heath Hayes. Racing Club Warwick have made an unbeaten start to the season and they travel to St Johns Park to face Hinckley AFC who have stuttered so far. Lichfield City have a 100% record with three wins and they welcome Stafford Town to the McDonalds Community Stadium. Town are yet to pick up a point and a Staffordshire derby could be the best time to start. Nuneaton Griff have started the season in great goalscoring form and they welcome a revitalised Pelsall Villa to the Pingles Stadium. Another side to have made a good start are Heather St Johns and they travel to Southam United who are yet to score this season. Studley welcome Bolehall Swifts to the Beehive with both sides making inconsistent starts to the campaign. Uttoxeter Town entertain Littleton at Oldfield Sports Club with both sides looking for the win to get their season moving.

Bank Holiday Monday
Bolehall Swifts v Heath Hayes
Cadbury Athletic v Studley
Heather St Johns v Bromsgrove Sporting
Leicester Road v Atherstone Town
Nuneaton Griff v Hinckley AFC
Pelsall Villa v Stafford Town
Pershore Town v Racing Club Warwick
Southam United v Coventry Copsewood
Uttoxeter Town v Lichfield City
Tuesday 30th August
Chelmsley Town v Littleton

Division 2
Barnt Green Spartak are the early leaders of Division 2 with 7 points out of 9. They travel to promoted Smithswood Firs still searching for their first point of the season. Feckenham are level on points with Spartak and have seen 19 goals in their four games this season. They travel to Sutton United who have seen 16 goals in their three games. Knowle lost their 100% record last weekend but can move to the top with a win over Continental Star at The Robins Nest. Alvis Sporting Club are yet to concede a goal and they take this record to Earlswood Town. Hampton have picked up one point in three games and they welcome promoted Redditch Borough to the Sports Club.

Bank Holiday Monday
Alvis Sporting Club v Redditch Borough
Bloxwich Town v Paget Rangers
Continental Star v Barnt Green Spartak
Coton Green v Sutton United
Droitwich Spa v Fairfield Villa
Earlswood Town v Hampton
Feckenham v Knowle
Smithswood Firs v Leamington Hibernian

Division 3
FC Stratford have a 100% record and will go top if they avoid defeat at home to Northfield Town.
Bank Holiday Monday
Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons v AFC Solihull
Castle Vale Town v Barton United
Moors Academy v FC Stratford
NKF Burbage v Coventrians
Northfield Town v Alcester Town
Shipston Excelsior v Inkberrow

The Les James Memorial Challenge Cup Round 1
Alcester Town welcome Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons to Old Stratford Road. Boldmere have lost their opening two league games and will be hoping the cup can bring a relief. Bloxwich Town have started with three straight defeats in the league and they welcome undefeated Droitwich Spa to the Old Red Lion Ground. Division 3 AFC Solihull face a tough challenge when they travel to Division 2 Coton Green. Fairfield Villa have made an excellent start to the season in Division 2 and they host Division 3 Enville Athletic have lost their solitary game. Leamington Hibernian have made an encouraging start to life in Division 2 and they welcome one of their promotion rivals from last season, Shipston Excelsior to Bishops Tachbrook. Two league newcomers with 100% records meet in the tie of the round at Badsey Recreation Club as Montpellier welcome NKF Burbage.

Challenge Vase Round 1
Castle Vale Town have started life in the Midland Football League with two defeats and they make their debut in the Vase with a trip to Barton United.

Reserves
Romulus v Cadbury Athletic (Trophy)
Tipton Town v Continental Star (Trophy)

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 [email protected]
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