Previous months' news can be found in the archives.
Click for Season 5 Episode 40 of the Non League Show featuring Paul Millington.
Latest News
17th May 2012
Enfield Town U18s 2 Ilford U18s 1
Ingilby Cup Final
Congratulations to the U18s who wrapped up this season's treble at Brentwood. Connor Bolton picked the ball up on the edge of his own 18 yard box before running the length of the pitch and beating three or four players to open the scoring. Ben Corbett made it 2-0 when he lobbed the Ilford 'keeper. Ilford then got back into the game but a number of Enfield chances could have increased the margin of victory.
Well done lads!
10th May 2012
BBC London 94.9FM Non League Show
The first ever episode of BBC 94.9FM's Non League Show was broadcast from an Enfield Town game. That was when Tom Watt, Clive Walker, David Watters and Supporters Direct's Kevin Rye joined us at Goldsdown Road for our Supporters Direct Cup game against Cambridge City five years ago.
On Monday Enfield Town Chair Paul Millington was interviewed by Caroline Barker for this week's Non-League Show. Paul's interview starts at 19 minutes 55 seconds into the programme but there is, as usual, plenty of other interesting content to the show.
Each episode of the Non League Show is available as a podcast and stays on the BBC web site for 30 days.
BBC London 94.9FM: The Non League Show home page
Click for Season 5 Episode 40 of the Non League Show featuring Paul Millington. Available until 5th June 2012. Terms of use for BBC podcasts
9th May 2012
Presentation Evening
We will have our Presentation Evening on Saturday 19th May 2012 at The Butlers Bar, 7.00pm for 8.00pm.
Contact Les Gold on 07979 727 563 for tickets. It will be free to get in but you must have a ticket.
Rudi Hall – Mr Enfield
by Jim Cunneen
Rudi played his 350th game against Grays Athletic in the play off semi final – and 351 in the final against Needham Market! A tremendous achievement considering the relative history of our club. He is also over 100 appearances clear of David Allen in second spot with 249!
Rudi made his debut in the abandoned game against Leyton in January 2002 in the Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy game and although that game doesn't count as as an apearence he was actually booked – which did count! He has become a real success for us being highly consistant, our regular penalty taker and is our leading goalscorer and highest ‘assister'. He is a very long street ahead of everyone in these aspects! He is the only player in our history to have scored over 100 goals. Rudi also has a highly competitive streak which has led to a darker disciplinary record. He is the only player to have broken the 100 bookings milestone as well! Take that away from however and he would not be the player he is. Here are the stats:
Apps goals (pens)
ESL 43 17 5
Southern League 37 23 14
Isthmian League 183 43 23
FA Cup 22 7 5
FA Trophy 13 4 4
FA Vase 7 1
Cherry Red Book Trophy 2 1
Middlesex Senior Cup 9 4 4
Middlesex Charity Cup 14 2 1
Essex Senior League Cup 15 2
Isthmian League Cup 4
Gordon Brasted Memorial Cup 1
George Ruffell Memorial Shield 1 2
On top of the 56 penalties he has scored he has missed 5. Rudi has contributed 129 assists! Matt Negus is 2nd in this list with 76! Unfortunately he has been sent off 7 times and booked 103 times. He has also played in 46 friendlies and scored 8 goals in these.
Not surprisingly Rudi has been voted Supporters Player of the year and JETS player of the year twice. He has also been awarded Player's player and Manager's player!
On top of that he has been credited with 32 MOM awards – and is top of this list as well.
Well done Rudi!
Jim Cunneen
Steve’s end of season thoughts
Wow, I remember telling all of you at the members meeting back last summer prior to the kick off that I thought I had enough quality, desire and team spirit within the squad to mount another promotion challenge this term, it has been nice that the lads have proved me right.
Like any team we have had good spells and not so good throughout the campaign and I wonder how many of you thought my prediction was way off the mark after the early exit in the FA cup and then that awful night away at Thamesmead, when I felt as low as I have done in my time at the club.
That actually in my eyes was a turning point, we had not been playing badly up until that point but that defeat in the 7th league match of the campaign, meant we were sitting with a record of P7 W2 D3 L2 Pts 9.
The players were given a bit of a kick up the back side and from that point on they have been an absolute credit to the club. The continuity of having a settled squad really came to the fore. I only added Noel (back in late September), Tyler in late February and Danny Barber with 8 matches to go, losing only Joe Stevens and Johnny Moore either side of Christmas to the land of Oz and Daniel Ailey in early March to Brentwood.
Every member of the squad has had a major impact at some point in helping us achieve promotion with the main core of Noel, Jordan, Jay, Kirbs, Gio, Kendall, Rudi, Dean, Michael, Walid, Hopey, Leon and Gunz (who only failed to start one league match this term). Those alongside the recent signings of Tyler and Danny Barber plus Lee Allen, Dan Forward and Phil Kane (who all have had injury hit seasons that have prevented them playing more games) and finally Bryan Hammatt who came in and offered all his experience for the run in. I couldn't not mention the contribution of a couple of others who left the club early on both Rob and Stuart Blackburne who also played their part. Also the three others who left the club Mooro, Joe Stevens and Dan Ailey all played a part in our success. Plus spare a thought for Bards who has had his season virtually written off by two serious injuries. Plus Matt Davis who has been our number two goal keeper all season to both Rob then Noel and hasn't moaned at lack of games once.
Lads you have all been superb.
Our final 35 games with a record of P 35 W 25 D 6 L 4 Pts 81 with a points per game average of 2.31 was remarkable and in any other campaign would probably have seen us win the league (so hats off to Leiston).
To be fair going up via the plays offs, is a better feeling, however not good for the nerves. The extra time performance in the semi final the other evening against Grays when we really up against it will stand out for me as the best 30 minutes of the campaign. Not for the football but for the sheer grit and determination of the players not to be beaten.
My back room staff of Jason (been my mate since we were 8), Pete Hammatt and both Rudi and Bryan in their dual roles have been immense alongside Lauren who is as reliable a sports therapist as I have come across, plus Les in the changing room and Jack out there taking care of the playing surface, have all been instrumental in our success.
Ram and Barry and their staff for their commitment to the reserve and youth team set up, well done and thank you.
I know a lot of you always ask how Del is and I can assure you he is and always will be keeping an eye on how things are going, his agreeing to do that first season with me despite his health situation shows what a top bloke he is, without his support I probably would not have become manager here jointly for that first season and in my own right since.
Finally and most of all, the people I am pleased for the most are the board members and the supporters (who are all unpaid volunteers) who have got the club into its own ground only 11 years after its formation. You created this club and now gradually step by step the club can continue to grow at the right pace to keep it as a viable proposition.
What a season and here is looking forward to the next and the new challenges it will bring and the higher level.
See you on the 19th at the presentation evening.
Steve
7th May 2012
Enfield Town 1 Needham Market 0
Ryman League Division 1 North Play-off Final
We have been promoted to the Ryman League Premier Division
Apologies for the delay in updating the site today. I'm sure I am not the only one who was a little delicate this morning!
Yesterday Enfield secured the second promotion place from the Ryman League Division 1 North thanks to a Walid Matata header from an Adam Wallace cross.
Both sides looked very weary from a long season, especially as both play-off semi finals had been postponed from Tuesday to Thursday for us and Friday for Needham Market. Matata's goal came in the first 20 minutes and Enfield only had two real scares, when Needham Market had a goal disallowed for offside and had a loud shout for a penalty turned down. We had already had a shout for a penalty turned down after Matata appeared to be pushed over by Lee McGlone with the scores at 0-0. Adam Wallace almost doubled the lead just after half time and we then had another loud shout for a penalty turned down when Liam Hope's shot may have been blocked by Pip Boyland's arm. Mark Kirby could have added to the score at the end but his header was too high.
It looks like we may have a seaside resorts tour next season as Lowestoft lost to AFC Hornchurch in the Premier Division play-off final earlier today and Bognor Regis Town won the Division 1 South final yesterday, to add to Margate and Hastings United, while Lewes isn't that far from the coast either. We also renew our acquaintances with Bury Town, Canvey Island, Concord Rangers East Thurrock United and Wingate & Finchley while we have also faced Carshalton Athletic, Harrow Borough, Hendon and Wealdstone in cup cometitions over the years.
Photos from the game are now, or will shortly be, on Flickr. Clicking on the photo will also take you to Flickr.
4th May 2012
Enfield Town vs Needham Market
Ryman League Division 1 North Play-off Final
On Sunday we welcome Needham Market to the Queen Elizabeth Stadium in the final of the Ryman League Division 1 North play-offs. Kick off will be 3.00pm. Tonight Needham Market beat Tilbury 4-3 after extra time.
etfc06052012 enfieldtown
That will ensure your photos turn up in our search.
Statistically Speaking
Jim Cunneen
We went to Needham Market for our first game between the clubs in February 2011. The first half was horrible and we showed them too much respect. A couple of half time substitutions turned things around and we pulled it back to 2-1 through Adam Wallace. After we conceded a third Jordan Lockie made it 3-2 10 minutes from the end with a goal of the season contender and we could easily have snatched a draw but it was not to be. 207 were there. They came to us for the return in March. Enfield held the league leaders to a 0-0 draw in which 'keeper Rob Blackburne was awarded Man of the Match. To a large extent, Needham Market were restricted to taking pot shots from distance. The difference between them and other sides we have done the same to is that theirs were mostly on target! Market's 'keeper Danny Gay was protected by the strenuous rear-guard action of his defence. We welcomed Walid Matata back after his short spell with Bishops Stortford. 223 witnessed the stalemate.
Needham then came to Cheshunt in September 2011 and I suppose that coming back from 2-0 down to get the draw against a fancied side like Needham Market, we should be pleased with the result, but we came so close to winning that I am sure a lot of us were looking at this as two points dropped. Despite having most of the chances in the first half we found ourselves 1-0 down at half time to Scott Chaplin's deft lob. Sam Newson doubled the lead just after the break in the only period in which Needham Market really dominated before Walid Matata thumped the ball into the roof of the net on the hour. Liam Hope got us the point with a left foot strike from outside the area about ten minutes from the end. 210 were there. The return game took place in April 2012 and we needed a win after two poor defeats. Steve Newing played a much changed side and it worked as we returned with all three points, guaranteeing us at least a play-off place. Both sides played their part in a fairly even first half, although the Enfield defending left Noel Imber much less busy than Liam Jones in the Needham Market goal. The breakthrough came early in the second half when Rudi Hall's pinpoint cross was headed home by Bryan Hammatt. We had plenty of chances and could have won by a bigger margin but for Jones in the home goal, who was quite rightly named as their Man of the Match. 361 turned up for this one.
Enfield Town 2 Grays Athletic 2 (a.e.t.)
Enfield won 3-1 after penalties
Ryman League Division 1 North Play-off Semi Final
After a very nerve racking game Enfield Town will play either Tilbury or Needham Market who play tomorrow following a number of weather related postponements.
To be honest, last night Enfield Town were very much the better side to start with, taking a first minute lead through Adam Wallace following a complete muck up by the Grays defence which captain Mark Kirby doubled just after the break. Grays got into things with a stunning comeback starting with a very controversial penalty after Danny Barber appeared to kick the ball behind for a corner. Barber got a yellow for that and was later one of two players shown a red card – the other was Rudi Hall, who stayed on the field after the referee realised he hadn't already booked him! As normal time was running out Grays' best player on the night, Junior Baker, forced the ball home so we we went into extra time. By this time Jordan Lockie was a passenger, as he was injured but could not be substituted as we had no subs left and then in the final minute of the extra half hour Danny Barber was rather harshly given a second yellow card for alleged time wasting.
Liam Hope, Rudi Hall and Mark Kirby scored our penalties in the shoot out, with Tony Tucker pulling off an excellent save from Walid Matata. Noel Imber was the Enfield hero as he saved two Grays penalties – the other missed one came back off the crossbar.
Photos from the game are now, or will shortly be, on Flickr. Clicking on the photo will also take you to Flickr.
Anne Marie Sanderson has also uploaded some photos to her web site.
1st May 2012
Enfield Town vs Grays Athletic
Ryman League Division 1 North Play-off Semi Final
Congratulations to Leiston on winning the title. Tonight they beat Potters Bar Town 6-0. We will now be at home to Grays Athletic in the Play-off semi-final at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium on Thursday. Kick off will be 7.45pm.
The Flickr tags will be:
etfc03052012 enfieldtown
That will ensure your photos turn up in our search.
We don't yet know who the winners will face as Tilbury vs Needham Market was postponed tonight.
29th April 2012
Ryman League Play-off Semi-Final
Leiston's game against Potters Bar was postponed yesterday and again today. It will now be played on Tuesday. Depending on the result of that game either Leiston or ourselves will be at home to Grays Athletic on Thursday in the play-off semi-final.
Grays Athletic 0 Enfield Town 3
Ryman League Division 1 North
Enfield turned in a superb performance in difficult conditions to go top of the league. Captain Mark Kirby (right) and Man of the Match Craig McKay let very little get as far as Noel Imber in the Enfield goal despite Grays controlling some early parts of the game.
The turning point for the game was when Grays' Bradley Thomas appeared to block a shot from Bryan Hammatt with his arm and then put things beyond doubt by grabbing hold of the ball. He got a second yellow card, leaving Grays down to ten men, and Liam Hope put away the resultant penalty. After a couple of substitutions, Tyler Campbell and Walid Matata both managed to get goalside of Grays defender Craig Pope before scoring one-on-ones against Tony Tucker in the home goal.
Photos from the game are now, or will shortly be, on Flickr. Clicking on the photo will also take you to Flickr.
27th April 2012
Grays Athletic vs Enfield Town
Ryman League Division 1 North
Tomorrow we travel to East Thurrock United's ground in Corringham to face Grays Athletic in the last game of the regular season. Depending on results it could be our last game of the season because we are still in with a shout for the title and automatic promotion.
Kick off tomorrow will be 3.00pm.
The Flickr tags will be:
etfc28042012 enfieldtown
That will ensure your photos turn up in our search.
Statistically Speaking
Jim Cunneen
Grays came to us for the first time in September 2010 for a league game. For the second game in a row we finished the game playing against ten men, this time following a horrible challenge on Sam Byfield by Grays' Marvin Samuel which earned him a straight red card. It was, it has to be said, an uncharacteristic lapse by a player we know to be hard but, for the most part, fair. Rudi Hall had already put us one up from the penalty spot in the 17th minute. Shortly after Samuel's departure Fabio Valenti doubled the lead after Grays' 'keeper Nick Wilson punched the ball out to him after Sam Byfield's shot had been blocked and the ball had almost gone in the top corner of the net. This was our best performance of the season so far and was witnessed by 237. In the return game in March Enfield limped to a 2-0 defeat. Bradley Thomas headed Grays into the lead before Jared Small finished things off in second half injury time and, while Grays deserved the win, Enfield peppered their goal towards the end of the match.
In December 2011 Grays came to the Queen Elizabeth Stadium and we beat them 2-1 to go top of the league in a somewhat fractious game. Before kick off the David Wilkinson Stand was officially opened by members of his family and then we got a boost when Liam Hope opened the scoring from the penalty spot. We were down to ten men after Leon Osei picked up a second yellow card and then Grays equalised. With five minutes to go Grays' Stanley Muguo also got his marching orders and then in inury time Jon Moore looped a header from Adam Wallace's cross over former Towner Andy Hall to give us the win. 403 were there.
25th April 2012
Enfield Town Res vs AFC Hornchurch Res – postponed
Capital League Eastern Division
Tonight's reserve team game at home to AFC Hornchurch has been postponed because the pitch is waterlogged. Today's deluge was just too much. I will let you have a new date when known.
24th April 2012
Enfield Town Res vs AFC Hornchurch Res
Capital League Eastern Division
Tomorrow night the reserves host AFC Hornchurch in the Capital League. Kick off is 7.45pm. This is our last home Capital League game so please make an effort to come along.
The Flickr tags for the game will be:
etfc25042012 enfieldtown
That will ensure your photos turn up in our search.
Chelmsford City Res 2 Enfield Town Res 0
Capital League Eastern Division
A mix and match Enfield side, mostly trialists, went down 2-0 to a strong Chelmsford City reserve side depite hitting the bar and having a couple of useful efforts saved.
Photos from the game may be on Flickr. I wasn't there so I can't promise anything.
23rd April 2012
Website Updates
Unfortunately I am suffering the Curse of Virgin Media again so many thanks to Mr Wetherspoon for providing an alternative internet service! It does mean updates may not be as immediate as I would like.
Grays Athletic vs Enfield Town
Ryman League Division 1 North
The Club is running a Coach for our important final league match against Grays this Saturday – 28th April 2012.
The Coach will be leaving from
The Queen Elizabeth Stadium,
Donkey Lane,
(off Carterhatch Lane)
Enfield
Middlesex
EN1 3PL
Departure Time 12.15pm SHARP
Tickets £10.00
For Bookings please contact Les Gold on 07979 727 563.
Chelmsford City Res vs Enfield Town Res
Capital League Eastern Division
Tonight the reserves travel to Chelmsford in the Capital League. Kick off is 7.45pm.
The Flickr tags for the game will be:
etfc23042012 enfieldtown
That will ensure your photos turn up in our search. I won't be there so I can't promise there will be any photos.
Enfield Town U18s vs Ilford U18s
Ingilby Cup Final
This Sunday, April 29th, the U18s travel to Brentwood Town FC's ground to play Ilford in the Ingilby Cup final. Kick off will be 10.30am.
Ware U18s 0 Enfield Town U18s 1
Eastern Junior Alliance
Our U18s won the league yesterday with a late winner from Connor Bolton to secure the undisputed outright title and the double after a long season with a squad half the size of many of our competitors.
So a huge well done to all the boys and a thank you to everyone at Enfield Town for believing in us!
All that remains is to beat Ilford next week for the treble!
Barry Bolton
21st April 2012
Enfield Town 1 Leiston 0
Ryman League Division 1 North
The possibility that Enfield Town FC will be automatically promoted as winners of Division 1 North is still there, however unlikely it may seem.
Leiston turned up at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium needing just one point to win the league and, although we got out of the starting blocks early with Walid Matata forcing a great save from visiting 'keeper Louis Johnson and Liam Hope plopping a header over the bar, we turned round at 0-0.
While Leiston had chances, by far the most went our way and Rudi Hall almost opened the scoring when he did well to keep a volley down but it hit the inside of the post and was grabbed by Johnson. With the visiting supporters prematurely celebrating winning the title, Johnson, who had up to that point been Leiston's best player, brought down Adam Wallace in the area, earning himself a yellow card and giving us a penalty. Liam Hope kept a cool head and showed what a good penalty taker he is, putting the ball to the 'keeper's left after his last three had gone in on the other side (left).
This was a really good team performance, especially from Man of the Match Michael Ewang, captain Mark Kirby and, well, just about everyone actually.
The bad moment in the game came when visiting defender Jemel Fox fell awkwardly as he tried to knock Adam Wallace off the ball. He disclocated his elbow but did not, as feared, break any bones. We all wish him a speedy recovery.
Photos from the game are now, or will shortly be, on Flickr. Clicking on the photo will also take you to Flickr.
So, we are just a point behind Leiston with one game to go. If we beat Grays they must beat Potters Bar Town. Elsewhere in the league, the three sides in pole position for the remaining play-off places got them, but while the title race has gone down to the last game, so has every other position. Third placed Needham Market, Grays Athletic in fourth and Tilbury in fifth are all on 77 points!
20th April 2012
Enfield Town vs Leiston
Ryman League Division 1 North
We welcome Leiston tomorrow in the league for a top of the table clash. Kick off will be 3.00pm.
The Flickr tags will be:
etfc21042012 enfieldtown
That will ensure your photos turn up in our search.
Statistically Speaking
Jim Cunneen
We went to Leiston for our first game between the sides in December 2011 on the back of a 12 match unbeaten league run! It was a case of "after the Lord Mayor's show" as Town failed to turn first-half control into goals and, despite taking the lead after the break through Liam Hope left huge gaps in midfield allowing Leiston a deserved victory with two second half goals. 226 saw us lose our unbeaten run.
Braintree Town Res 5 Enfield Town Res 1
Capital League Eastern Division
A somewhat depleted Enfield side got on the wrong end of a heavy defeat on Wednesday. The highlight from our point of view was a stunning 30 yard goal from Mason Todd.
Photos from the game may be on Flickr but I can't promise anything as we didn't have a photographer there.
17th April 2012
Braintree Town Res vs Enfield Town Res
Capital League Eastern Division
Tomorrow the reserves travel to Braintree Town in the Capital League. Kick off will be 7.45pm.
The Flickr tags for the game will be:
etfc18042012 enfieldtown
That will ensure your photos turn up in our search. I won't be there so I can't promise there will be any photos.
16th April 2012
Enfield Town Res 1 Ebbsfleet United Res 1
Capital League Eastern Division
Enfield weathered a bit of a first half storm tonight, taking the lead before having to settle for the point.
There was a mix of youth and experience with a number of eighteen year olds, a couple of forty year olds and various ages in between. Dan Forward captained the side against Ebbsfleet's U19 side (their first team plays Luton tomorrow) with veterans Fergus Moore at the back, and centre forward Dominic Gentle (right), who opened the scoring with a well placed shot. He had already hit the bar at that point but the referee's assistant had flagged Moore offside. Ebbsfleet would have been in front at half time had it not been for some excellent goalkeeping by U18s 'keeper Charlie Crowley.
The second half saw the introduction of Connor Bolton, Andrew Folan and Nana Asamoah, leaving a certain Steve Newing as the unused substitute. Sam Deaney started the game having originally been named as a sub because James Winchester was injured in the warm-up.
Photos from the game are now, or will shortly be, on Flickr. Clicking on the photo will also take you to Flickr.
The Cold End was there tonight with his video camera, so keep an eye out for the highlights.
15th April 2012
Enfield Town Res vs Ebbsfleet United Res
Capital League Eastern Division
Tomorrow night the reserves host Ebbsfleet United reserves in the Capital League. Kick off will be 7.45pm.
The Flickr tags for the game will be:
etfc16042012 enfieldtown
That will ensure your photos turn up in our search.
Cheshunt 0 Enfield Town 5
Ryman League Division 1 North
Yesterday we guaranteed at least second place with a strong performance at Cheshunt. It was the second time we had played Cheshunt at their ground in the league this season as our home game was played towards the end of our ground share there.
We could have gone in 2-0 up at the break as Adam Wallace hit the post before Liam Hope opened the scoring from the penalty spot following a foul on Craig McKay. Just after the break Liam doubled our lead, again from a penalty, after he himself was fouled by Mark Twumasi. Shortly after the hour mark we then wrapped things up with three goals in eleven minutes. Walid Matata poked the ball past Glenn Williamson to make it 3-0, Adam Wallace thumped home a shot from a difficult angle and then Bryan Hammatt (left) wrapped things up.
Photos from the game are now, or will shortly be, on Flickr. Clicking on the photo will also take you to Flickr.
Elsewhere in the league Leiston lost 3-1 to Maldon & Tiptree, which means we still have a mathematical chance of winning the league. Tilbury are now third following their 1-0 win over Potters Bar Town and Needham Market's 3-3 draw against Romford. Grays make up the top five after they beat Brentwood Town 2-0. Below them, Redbridge and AFC Sudbury have mathematical, but improbable, chances to get into the play-offs. Harlow Town no longer have even that after giving up a two goal lead to lose 3-2 to Waltham Forest.
At the other end of the table, Ware's victory over Ilford consigned Great Wakering Rovers to a relegation spot. One of Ware, Ilford and Soham Town Rangers will take the other one.
13th April 2012
Cheshunt vs Enfield Town
Ryman League Division 1 North
We visit Cheshunt tomorrow in the league. Kick off will be 3.00pm.
The Flickr tags will be:
etfc14042012 enfieldtown
That will ensure your photos turn up in our search.
Statistically Speaking
Jim Cunneen
Enfield Town FC's second ever match was a home game against Cheshunt in a pre season fixture at the Downs. Jim Chandler was still trying out his new players and we lost 0-2. 223 turned up to watch though.
The following season (02-03) another pre season game was arranged at 48 hours notice and Jim took an 'experimental' side to Cheshunt and game home with a 0-3 defeat. Such was the side that Chopper played up front in the second half.
It was off to the Country Club for our next game in pre-season 2003 and we came back on the wrong end of a 4-1 defeat. At least we scored – Matthew Negus getting our goal.
In pre season 2005-06 another friendly and a draw in one of the most entertaining friendlies you are likely to see. We were a goal down at half time and Jim sent on a completely different side in the second half Maurice Byfield scored our equalisor before Jon Stevenson netted an og to give Cheshunt the lead. He made amends 2 minuted from the end, however, whacking in our second from the spot and making it 2-2.
Our first competitive game against Cheshunt took place at Brimmo in September 2008 and was a thriller. We had just won at Tilbury but were still not able to win a home game and the trend continued in this one! Still, as Martin put it – we keep coming up with more inventive ways to lose 'em! A goal up after 63 seconds through Mitch Hahn the Ambers equalised after half an hour. Hahn again gave us the lead only for Cheshunt to come back again. A draw probably would have been the right result but a howler from our keeper presented them with a third. 249 were there. The return game was in March 2009 and we came away from Theobalds Lane with all three points in a hard fought game. It was our first win against Cheshunt at the sixth time of asking. Chris Wild was unlucky not to open the scoring when his header was cleared off the line. Sammy Winston got the only goal of the game after 83 minutes, looping his shot over Cheshunt's former Town 'keeper, Ashley Harris. 295 were there.
The curse of the "Manager of the Month" failed to strike in January 2010 as Town ran in four unanswered goals at Goldsdown Road. Jordan Lockie opened the scoring with a thunderbolt of a shot before Mark Kirby doubled the lead before half time. Sam Byfield finished off a sublime move for the third before Liam Hope rounded things off as Town scored four for the fourth consecutive league game. It could have been a far wider margin as Hope also hit the bar, several good chances were squandered and visiting 'keeper Luke Dodd pulled off one very good save. Rob Blackburne, at the other end, may not have had much to do but his positioning was impeccable throughout and what he did have to do he did well. 246 were there to see us retain our play off spot. We travelled to Cheshunt on the back of a decent run in March 2010 but it came to an end there. A very disjointed display allowed Cheshunt to come back from a goal down to claim the three points. Adam Wallace opened the scoring before slack defending allowed our hosts to hit back. Both sides hit the woodwork as well so there could have been more goals. It was another game for Town supporters to play "Spot the Former Towner" as Cheshunt featured Boniek Forbes, Matt Thomson and Steven Velandia. 249 were there.
Cheshunt came to us in February 2011 and after our last two games this was a very disappointing display as a lacklustre Enfield side allowed Cheshunt to control the midfield for large parts of the match. Quite frankly Cheshunt deserved their win. Mark Kirby equalised in between two goals for Bradley Harrison and it was an excellent finish but apart from that we never really got into the game. Just as disappointing was the gate. 147. The Return game took place in April. Enfield missed out on a play-off place but the knowledge that Wingate & Finchley were almost guaranteed the final play-off spot before the round of games seemed to leave us with no pressure and we witnessed a sparkling performance. It was good to see Jey Siva take his chance of a rare start with an excellent performance on the wing. Adam Wallace scored two and could have had a third but for a very good save by Cheshunt's Joe Wright, but Walid Matata followed that up to score. 251 were there
In 2011-12 we were at 'home' to Cheshunt in September and the honours were even in a 1-1 draw. The game saw Noel Imber make his Enfield Town debut. Cheshunt took a first half lead before being reduced to ten men after Jon Moore got an elbow in the face. Enfield managed a late equaliser when Adam Wallace headed home from Jey Siva's cross. During the game both Daniel Ailey and Stuart Blackburne hit the woodwork and had goals disallowed—Ailey's following a foul by Dean Pennant and Blackburne's from a controversial offside decision. 225 were there.
12th April 2012
Update from Steve
This is probably something I should do more on the club website. I have my column in the program, I have the two local papers ring me on a Monday morning and the Gazette put my column on line.
However this is probably where most go for sources of information about what is going on at the club and in and around the dressing room. The fans forum is as active as ever and fans are raising and asking questions and expressing views with the end of the season in sight.
At this stage of the campaign, results matter more than performances, as usual the free flowing football that we like to play becomes more and more difficult as the pitches become harder and devoid of grass, and with the dry winter and early spring we find the pitches firmer and bobblier than ever. Our pitch at the QE is not exempt from this and has suffered with the lack of water with the grass struggling to grow. We just have to get on with this and look to grind out results and accept that playing a passing game becomes more and more difficult.
Another job for me to do is to manage the whole playing squad and look to try to keep all as fresh as possible, for whatever challenges lie ahead, (play offs now look inevitable, but until not mathematically possible we will still cling on to the fact that we can still win the league).
Earlier on in the season it is easy for a manager, when a side is playing well and the team are winning to keep playing the same side game after game barring injuries and suspensions. However as we get to the latter stages of the season, players by now are in most cases carrying some knocks and strains and it is important to try to protect these as and when we can. Hence you have seen me rotate and juggle the squad over the last few games, this is out of necessity to try and keep the players on their toes and all as fit as possible, as if we end up in the play offs you need to have the whole squad match fit and raring to go if required. The whole squad are all more than capable of being part of the starting 11 and competition keeps all on their guard.
We play a system that the whole team is comfortable with and has proved successful so far this term so all the squad know what is required of them when utilised. At this stage I look to pick a team to beat the opposition on a game by game basis as this enables all of the above to happen. If I were to pick the same 11 week in week out at this stage of the campaign, injuries would be more likely and if and when they occur and or suspensions, replacements wouldn't be match fit.
I will continue to use this philosophy throughout the remainder of the campaign and the lads have been aware of this and although no player likes being left out of the starting 11, there are no issues and the squad are all pulling in the same direction and looking to achieve promotion.
We all have opinions about team selection and views on individual players, I do it as a Spurs fan and often wonder what Harry is doing, I am sure and infact I know that some of you supporters and officials of the club do the same, I have no problem with that and would infact worry if you all thought the same way as I do.
I am open to discuss my selections with any of you and my reasons, I will always be available in the bar after the game, please come and talk to me after all I know it is your football club (supporters run) not mine.
We sit 2nd and have had so far our most successful season with points acquired at Step 4, but as we all know play offs whether you finish 2nd, 3rd, 4th or 5th are all about two cup matches and league positions count for nothing come May1st when the two semi finals kick off.
We all need one final push, so please get right behind the lads, when it isn't quite going right they need you more than ever (some more than others) and with a little luck we will all be celebrating come the end of the season.
Steve
11th April 2012
Enfield Town Res 1 Braintree Town Res 5
Capital League Eastern Division
Tonight a bit of a scratch side lost to Braintree's reserves 5-1. Tremayne Coley scored our goal. Charlie Crowley played the first half in goal but his replacement got injured so we ended up using three 'keepers in the game. There was a familiar face among the new signings as Sam Deaney, who was part of the U18/reserve set up a couple of years ago, played.
There may be some photos from the game on Flickr but I wasn't at the game so I can't promise anything.
10th April 2012
Enfield Town Res vs Braintree Town Res
Capital League Eastern Division
Tomorrow night the reserves host Braintree Town reserves in the Capital League. Kick off will be 7.45pm.
The Flickr tags for the game will be:
etfc11042012 enfieldtown
That will ensure your photos turn up in our search.
Enfield Town 1 Waltham Abbey 1
Ryman League Division 1 North
A late equaliser from Walid Matata (right) got us a point yesterday, but our hopes of winning the title have surely evaporated now.
We had to play half the game with only ten men as Michael Ewang got himself sent off just before the break. Waltham Abbey were also reduced to ten men during the second half and then scored with only three minutes left. Fortunately for the home supporters, Adam Wallace managed to get his cross past half a dozen players in the six yard area for the unmarked Matata to pass the ball into a barely guarded net.
Photos from the game are now, or will shortly be, on Flickr. Clicking on the photo will also take you to Flickr.
Elsewhere in the league, Leiston won 3-0 against Needham Market which was certainly a mixed blessing. Leiston are now all but uncatchable, but the fact their opponent was Needham Market has increased our lead over third place to eight points with nine to play for. Tilbury have caught up with Needham Market on points but not on goal difference. They leapfrogged over Grays Athletic by beating Great Wakering Rovers. Grays let a two goal lead slip away to Romford.
8th April 2012
Enfield Town vs Waltham Abbey
Ryman League Division 1 North
We welcome Waltham Abbey to the Queen Elizabeth Stadium tomorrow in the league. Kick off will be 3.00pm.
The Flickr tags will be:
etfc09042012 enfieldtown
That will ensure your photos turn up in our search.
Statistically Speaking
Jim Cunneen
Waltham Abbey were accepted into the Essex Senior League at the beginning of 2002-03 and our first game against them was at the end of August 2002 when we made the short trip up the road.
It was a very tight affair – Abbey had a set game plan to frustrate us and they stuck to their task well. It took a second half goal from Rudi Hall to set up the three points and a tremendous triple save from Andy Hall at the death to secure it. An excellent crowd of 302 watched this one. Another excellent crowd, 322, watched us draw the return game in December 1-1. Daniel Clarke gave us an early lead but we were pegged back by a penalty on the stroke of half time. We lost our way a bit in the second half but we were still denied at the death when an Alleyne effort was ruled out for a debatable offside.
Pete Coath described our performance at the Abbey in September '03 as industrious as we came away with another 1-0 win. We were always comfortable after Lee Smith had given us the lead after 17 minutes. Having said that Chopper had to be at his best to deny an equaliser on the hour but you always had the feeling we had enough in hand. (Att: 243).
We then played the Abbey in the 1st round of the Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy and squeaked a 1-0 win. Opinions seem to be split as to whether we were a tad lucky to win or not but the bare facts are these. Abbey missed a penalty, Chopper was man of the match, Stuart Snowden scored with a wind assisted corner. Well there you go – it was enough to put us into the next round. Back we came one week later, this time for our home league game. 253 watched and frustration ruled as we failed to win for the 5th league game on the trot and managed to conjour a defeat as Abbey scored with the final kick of the game. We did not create much on the night and goals looked very hard to come by.
And so to 2004-05. We travelled to Abbey in December and a record ESL gate (for them) of 338 were in attendance. Abbey had their tactics right on the day and hit us on the break while soaking up everything we threw at them. One down after half an hour we huffed and puffed a lot but could not break them down. A second goal at the death sealed their win and ended our record breaking away run without defeat And left them clear at the top of the table. There was a complete turn of fortunes by the time of the return game in early April. We were top and battling it out with Burnham. An excellent gate of 374 saw us put in a superb performance and gain revenge for our our earlier defeat. Graeme Hall put us one up after only 4 minutes and Kevin Riley made it two after half an hour. Although Abbey pulled one back shortly into the second half we were never in trouble and when Lee Smith rolled one in iff the post with 54 minutes played the points were safe. With Burnham losing to a last minute goal at Barkingside this was a perfect day for all Towners. On the second of May we travelled to Barkingside for the League Cup Final with the League in the bag. Abbey beat us 4-1. A win that was thoroughly deserved and nothing that follows should detract from that. We didn't turn up in the first half and went in a goal down. Lee Smith levelled and for the next ten minutes we looked good. Abbey then hit us on the break and scored another two before the end. A total of 11 bookings and 1 sent off in a game that was not that dirty doesn't even start to… No, not let's not go there! A great crowd of 565 saw Abbey pick up there trophy and they deserved the congratulations.
We had our chance for a spot of revenge when we drew Abbey in the 1st qualifying round of the FA Cup in 2005-06. Matthew Negus gave us the lead as early as the 3rd minute and things got a little tasty after that. The game wasn't settled until the 83rd minute when David Ayres attempted to cushion a header back to his keeper with no Town player in sight. Regrettably the keeper wasn't there. Another goal from Matt Negus was the icing on the cake but the scoreline was probably a little harsh on our neighbours.
In 2006-07 we were paired with our near neighbours again in the Isthmian League due to another shake up. We travelled there towards the end of August and came away with the points thanks to a 2-0 win. Even though Abbey hit the bar twice we never looked in any trouble and the win was comfortable. Steven Velandia opened the scoring for us and man of the match Liam Patrick wrapped up the win. 288 were there. Incidentally Our full backs were Patrick and Campbell and Tom Scott (blame him!) said this was why our performance was stuttering. Sigh! The return game was played at the third time of asking, in February 2007, and almost didn't take place again! The dreadful weather meant that the crowd was only 209 but they saw sub (very appropriate!) Dean Nyman score the only goal.
We'd been going through a dreadful run of form when we went to the Abbey in October 2007 but came back with a bit of a win. 8-2 to be precise! Two hat tricks – Ricci Crace and Bryan Hammatt (both joint mom) and a brace from Rudi Hall (one pen) wrapped it up thank you. They had a player sent off but I really don't think it would have made that much of a difference – it was that kind of a night. 211 were there. The return game was played in dreadful conditions and with floodlight problems. Abbey took the lead after 9 minutes but we were level a minute later through a Michael Deane penalty. Rudi Hall came on at half time and went off just 7 minutes later for an elbow. We then lost to a late goal. No comment is necessary. 246 were there.
Our home game of 2008-09 was played on a bitterly cold afternoon in the dog days of December. Unusually for us we played really well in a home game and after what was described as 'ripsnorter' of a performance we had all 3 points after a 2-0 win. Jeff Hammond gave us the lead with a snap shot and Rudy Hall doubled the advantage from the spot. 240 were there. The return game in April was dreadful. Neither side played much football and the goal, in the last minute, was completely out of context with the rest of the game. A direct free kick that was direct indeed! Abbey won 1-0 and secured a play off place and 303 were there.
In 2009-10 we made the short trip to newly promoted Abbey for an FA Cup 1st qualifying round tie. Town won through to the second qualifying round on a bumpy Capershotts pitch thanks to a penalty from Rudi Hall.
The penalty followed a foul on Adam Wallace which could have led to the Abbey being reduced to ten men. Although the Abbey hit the woodwork twice, once following an excellent save from Rob Blackburne, and Blackburne also pulled off a great save in the second half, this was a thoroughly deserved victory for Town in front of 260. We then drew the Abbey at home in the League Cup and both sides put out strong sides with some first team regulars on the bench. It was Town who came out on top for the second time this season. Our scorers were both making their debuts. They were winger Ben Hammond and centre forward Liam Hope, who scored twice. Abbey's reply was an unfortunate own goal by Rob Blackburne who had come on as a second half substitute after U18s 'keeper Jason Holmes went off with an ankle injury. 107 saw us gain our first ever win in the League Cup.
Abbey came to us for the first league game of 2010-11. Town easily saw off our near neighbours, having controlled the game, despite giving away a fluky goal on 3 minutes and seeing former Town 'keeper Harry Ricketts make some excellent saves. The visiting defence eventually crumbled to let Adam Wallace, who had already had a "goal" very harshly ruled out, cross to a totally unmarked Sam Byfield, who equalised. Shortly afterwards Ricketts was once more left to his own devices by a horribly AWOL defence and Mark Kirby put the ball away with great aplomb. As with the first half, Rob Blackburne was reasonably untroubled, dealing with Abbotts' attacks efficiently as and when and staying alert when the ball was up the other end (which was most of the time, to be honest). 261 were there. The return game took place in March 2011 and Town made the most of "away advantage" to take all three points with a 2-0 win. Joe Stevens got his first for the club, scoring from a Leon Osei cross before Liam Hope doubled the lead thanks to his persistence after former Towner Harry Ricketts had saved and then dropped his first effort. Abbey were then reduced to ten men when Tyler Campbell, who had already been booked, received a second yellow. They were further reduced to nine when another former Towner, Matt Attard, also got a second booking. By then, though, Abbey were well out of the contest. 123 were there.
We travelled to the Abbey for a Boxing Day fixture in 2011 and Martin described it as a "mad game". The Town returned to the top of the league despite dropping two points in a 2-2 draw Abbey had an effort disallowed after only 27 seconds. The Abbots took the lead twice before Liam Hope and Adam Wallace equalised. Wallace's goal took us to the 50 league goal point. Only a miraculous goal clearance in the last few seconds then denied us a win. 218 witnessed the fun.
Needham Market 0 Enfield Town 1
Ryman League Division 1 North
Yesterday, Steve Newing confused most of the Enfield support by leaving top scorer Liam Hope on the bench, along with Jey Siva and Leon Osei, playing Bryan Hammatt and Adam Wallace up front with Tyler Campbell and Walid Matata out wide, and leaving Dave Kendall on the bench to make way for Craig McKay. It worked though and we returned with all three points, guaranteeing us at least a play-off place.
Both sides played their part in a fairly even first half, although the Enfield defending left Noel Imber much less busy than Liam Jones in the Needham Market goal. The breakthrough came early in the second half when Rudi Hall's pinpoint cross was headed home by Bryan Hammatt, (left). We had plenty of chances and could have won by a bigger margin but for Jones in the home goal, who was quite rightly named as their Man of the Match.
Photos from the game are now, or will shortly be, on Flickr. Clicking on the photo will also take you to Flickr.
Elsewhere in the league, Leiston finally lost, 3-1 to Tilbury, with former Towner Alex Read doing the damage after Leiston were reduced to ten men. Grays drew 1-1 at home to Chatham and Sudbury beat Harlow to leapfrog over them into sixth place. We are now five points behind Leiston, seven clear of Needham Market and ten clear of Grays and Tilbury. Brentwood's draw at Waltham Abbey leaves them mathematically still able to claim a play-off spot but very unlikely to do so.
At the other end of the table, Cheshunt ensured their safety with a 3-1 win at home to Romford and Ilford moved five points clear of the relegation positions when 'keeper Rob Budd scored the only goal of the game against Potters Bar Town with a direct free kick from the edge of his own penalty area.
6th April 2012
Middlesex FA U18s vs Surrey FA U18s
South East Counties Youth Championship
Middlesex play Surrey at Uxbridge FC on Sunday 15th April, kick off 1.00pm. Congratulations to Jamie Smyth who is in the Selected Squad and Cem Aytac who is in the Standby Squad.
BlindsUK
BlindsUK have very kindly supplied the blinds which will shortly be installed at the QE II Stadium Bar. We hope this will substantially improve the environment in the bar.
To use the services of BlindsUK please visit their site. You can either use the tect link or click on the logo.
http://www.blindsuk.net/
Sport Relief Collection
The collection for Sport Relief 2012 at Saturday's game against Harlow Town raised £137.77. The board thanks the supporters for their generosity.
Nigel Howard
Needham Market vs Enfield Town
Ryman League Division 1 North
We travel to Needham Market tomorrow in the league for a very important game as both sides aim for at least second spot at the end of the season. Kick off will be 3.00pm.
The Flickr tags will be:
etfc07042012 enfieldtown
That will ensure your photos turn up in our search.
Statistically Speaking
Jim Cunneen
We went to Needham Market for our first game between the clubs in February 2011. The first half was horrible and we showed them too much respect. A couple of half time substitutions turned things around and we pulled it back to 2-1 through Adam Wallace. After we conceded a third Jordan Lockie made it 3-2 10 minutes from the end with a goal of the season contender and we could easily have snatched a draw but it was not to be. 207 were there. They came to us for the return in March. Enfield held the then league leaders to a 0-0 draw in which 'keeper Rob Blackburne was awarded Man of the Match. To a large extent, Needham Market were restricted to taking pot shots from distance. The difference between them and other sides we had done the same to is that theirs were mostly on target! Market's 'keeper Danny Gay was protected by the strenuous rear-guard action of his defence. We welcomed Walid Matata back after his short spell with Bishops Stortford. 223 witnessed the stalemate.
Needham then came to Cheshunt in September 2011 and I suppose that coming back from 2-0 down to get the draw against a fancied side like Needham Market, we should be pleased with the result, but, we came so close to winning that I am sure a lot are looking at this as two points dropped. Despite having most of the chances in the first half we found ourselves 1-0 down at half time to Scott Chaplin's deft lob. Sam Newson doubled the lead just after the break in the only period in which Needham Market really dominated before Walid Matata thumped the ball into the roof of the net on the hour. Liam Hope got us the point with a left foot strike from outside the area about ten minutes from the end. 210 were there.
Enfield Town Res 2 Cheshunt Res 2
Capital League Eastern Division
On Wednesday evening we were treated to another entertaining ninety minutes and another stunning Enfield Town goal.
Cheshunt were captained by former Towner Matt Thomson (right, with Enfield debutant Soutchay-Joshua Rattanong) and deservedly went in at half time 2-0 up.
The Enfield comeback started just before half time, as we got more into the game, and just after the break Liam Hope thumped in our first goal, off the post, despite the efforts of the visiting defence to stop it. We could have equalised through Jamie Smyth but Oll Lesley in the visiting goal cleared with his feet. Shortly afterwards, substitute Mason Todd hit a thunderbolt of an equaliser after cutting in from the left wing. The Cheshunt 'keeper had no chance as the ball was past him before he could get down. As the game wore on Cheshunt came back into the game and rattled the woodwork as we held on for the point.
Unfortunately Ben Corbett had to go off with what looked like a bad ankle injury. Hopefully it wasn't as bad as it looked.
Photos from the game are now, or will shortly be, on Flickr. Clicking on the photo will also take you to Flickr.
4th April 2012
Enfield Town Res vs Cheshunt Res
Capital League Eastern Division
Tonight the reserves host Cheshunt reserves in the Capital League. Kick off will be 7.45pm.
The Flickr tags for the game will be:
etfc04042012 enfieldtown
That will ensure your photos turn up in our search.
2nd April 2012
Player News
We signed six players on first team forms just before the 31st March deadline.
Matt Hurley was one of the new faces in the Capital League recently and scored against 1893 last week. The others will be familiar to those of us who have watched the reserves and U18s this season as they are all from Barry, Pat and John's group of youngsters. Connor Bolton, Ciaran Dolan Grant, Scott Hayes, Rhys Hunt and James Winchester are all now available for Ryman League games.
1st April 2012
Spend, Save, Support…
You may have seen the flyers around the club. We have entered into a new affiliate shopping scheme as well as the Amazon and Tradedoubler schemes we already use.
This one is slightly different though because you get cash back as well as the club getting commission.
Click on the banner for more details.
Enfield Town 0 Harlow Town 3
Ryman League Division 1 North
This is definitely going to go down as three points lost as Enfield yet again faltered in front of goal.
Harlow were reduced to ten men when Jeff Hammond got a straight red card—he had already been booked so even if the straight red was harsh he would probably have been sent off anyway—before their controversial opener. Jack Haverson appeared to barge straight into Noel Imber and then former Towner Luke Marshall looked like he handled the ball in scoring. There was nothing controversial about their other goals though. Poor defending again I'm afraid.
Despite the lack of goals, it wasn't for the want of trying with Michael Ewang (left), Liam Hope, Leon Osei, Rudi Hall, Dean Pennant and Mark Kirby among the players who came close, with visiting 'keeper Bertrand Bossu pulling off a stunning save from Adam Wallace's header towards the end of the game.
Photos from the game are now, or will shortly be, on Flickr. Clicking on the photo will also take you to Flickr.
Elsewhere in the league Leiston only drew, leaving us eight points behind, but Needham Market's win got them to within four points of ourselves. Grays and Tilbury also won to keep themselves ahead of Harlow but AFC Sudbury dropped back.
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