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 He was offered palliative chemotherapy but after 2 sessions this was withdrawn as it was making him too ill.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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
Gresley 0 Cadbury Athletic 1
Lichfield City 10 (TEN) Tipton Town 3
Rocester 7 Coton Green 0
Romulus 5 Brocton 3
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
AFC Wulfrunians v Shawbury United (1945)
Coventry United v Boldmere St Michaels (1945)
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.
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
Chelmsley Town v Littleton
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.
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
FC Stratford have a 100% record and will go top if they avoid defeat at home to Northfield Town.
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.
Romulus v Cadbury Athletic (Trophy)
Tipton Town v Continental Star (Trophy)
Worcester City and Bromsgrove Sporting are pleased to announce that it has been mutually agreed between the two clubs that season ticket holders can attend the home fixtures of the other club for a reduced price.
For Worcester City home fixtures (League only) Bromsgrove Sporting supporters upon the production of their BSFC Season Ticket will be entitled to a reduced admission price of £9 (normal price is £13).
Likewise, for Bromsgrove Sporting home fixtures (League only) Worcester City supporters upon the production of their WCFC Season Ticket will be entitled to a reduced admission price of £4 (normal price is £6).
AFC Wulfrunians are hosting 'An Evening with Kenny Hibbitt & Steve Daley' at the Castlecroft Stadium on Friday 2nd September 2016, doors open at 7:30pm.
Tickets, which are selling fast, cost £20 and include a curry meal.
If you want to purchase a ticket, or would like more information, contact Simon Cater on 07870 164631 or e-mail simoncater@hotmail.com
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Gresley vs Cadbury Athletic
Lichfield City vs Tipton Town
Rocester vs Coton Green
Romulus vs Brocton
Download (includes pictures)
Midland Football League Newsletter
Folliwing the results in the Extra-prelimanary round, the draw for the Prelimanary Round of THE FA Cup is as follows:-
FA Cup Preliminary Round
Coventry United or Shawbury United vs Lichfield City
There was a heartwarming story from last weekend's FA Cup. A young lad who phoned up Lye Town in pre season and said could he join the club for he wanted to play football. He joined in training and looked very raw. He played the first friendly and scored the winner and so Lye persevered and he continued to play a part in the other friendlies. On Saturday he played his first ever FA cup tie. Lye
Town went 2-0 down to AFC Wulfrunians but he said I'll turn this round and he did getting a hat trick. The player is Jack Till a Black Country Gem – real Roy of the Rovers stuff. Well done Jack and well done Lye for giving him the chance.
The draw has been made for the opening round of the Les James Challenge Cup
Alcester Town vs Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons
Bloxwich Town vs Droitwich Spa
Coton Green vs AFC Solihull
Fairfield Villa vs Enville Athletic
Leamington Hibernian vs Shipston Excelsior
Montpellier vs NKF Burbage
Feckenham vs Sutton United
Alvis Sporting Club vs Barton United
Inkberrow vs FC Stratford
Coventrians vs Knowle
Moors Academy vs Continental Star
Redditch Borough vs Castle Vale Town
Smithswood Firs vs Paget Rangers
Barnt Green Spartak vs Hampton
Byes: Northfield Town, Earlswood Town
The draw has been made for the first round of The President's Cup
Coton Green vs Leamington Hibernian
Feckenham vs Droitwich Spa
Paget Rangers vs Fairfield Villa Knowle vs Smithswood Firs
Redditch Borough vs Hampton
Bloxwich Town vs Barnt Green Spartak
Sutton united vs Alvis Sporting Club
Continental Star vs Earlswood Town
The draw has been made for the first round of The Challenge Vase
Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons vs Enville Athletic
Moors Academy vs Shipston Excelsior
Barton united vs Castle Vale town
AFC Solihull vs Montpellier
NKF Burbage vs FC Stratford
Northfield Town vs Inkberrow
Byes: Alcester Town, Coventrians
FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round (1)
Hinckley AFC 1 Heanor Town 1
An early start to the FA Cup campaign means a Friday evening game due to the Scarecrow festival in Heather (http://www.heatherscarecrowfestival.com/). Both sides are expected to be amongst the challengers in their respectiev divisions this season so a tight encounter was anticpated. A pleasant summer's evening was soon replaced by torrential rain just to remind us all that the football season had started. With St Johns Park looking immaculate, the addition of the new seats in the main stand making a big difference, a very healthy crowd greeted the two sides. The home side made all the early running with the pace of Sean Williams and Darious Darkin causing problems for the Heanor defence. The first effort on target came from Sean Williams in the 4th minute following an initial run by Darkin. Heanor's first attempt on goal came from Joe Naylor but his shot was blocked. Heanor almost gifted Hinckley an opening when a back ;ass from greg Marriott was too short but Joe McCormack manged to clear off the boot of Williams. At the other end, a mistake by James Williams let in Arash Abdollahi and his cross was met by Naylor but deflected for a corner. Abdollahi was off target with a header when wel placed. In the 33rd minute and excellent move from the home side finished with Rico Taylor forcing a decent save from McCormack. Hinckley too the lead that their first half performance deserved in the 39th minute. A corber from the right from Taylor was headed powerfully home by skipper Ryan Paddock.
More was expected from Heanor after the break but it was Hinckley who still looked the most likely. Good control from Taylor created an opening but his shot was comfortably held and then a k#jinking rin from the same player had no end result as Heanor scrambled it clear. The introduction of Nathan Benger for Heanor added more physicality to the front line and the visitors began to opush the home side back. The equaliser came in the 65th minute. Kieran Debrouwer managed to get on the wrong side of the Hinckley defence and when his shot was saved by Tom Cross it fell to Elliott Reeves who hammered home for a goal on his full debut. It was not the visitors in the ascendancy but the home defence stood firm with Jamal Clarke a growing presence. With 10 minutes left, Naylor blasted over the bar when in a decent position. A free kick from Cory Bowler was floated into the box and Benger's header was defelcted wide for a corner. Hinckley went close to regaining the lead when a fine cross from Shaquille Lee was inches away from being converted by David Blenkinsop. The final chance fell to benger for Heanor but his header was off target and the two sides must do it all again next Wednesday at The Town Ground.
Saturday August 6th
FA Cup Extra-Prelimanary Round (2)
Haughmond 0 Alvechurch 2
Haughmond, from Shrewsbury, were making their debut in the FA cup with last season's Premier Division runner-sup, Alvechurch, the visitors. Haughmond play in the immaculate surroundings of the Shrewsbury Sports Centre, facilities a lo of sides wuold be envious of. With the sun beating down and the pitch looking perfect, a decent crowd entered the cage for what promised to be an enthralling cup-tie. Alvechurch took control from the whistle but it took 8 minutes for their first attempt, Josh March wide of the mark following a cross from Tom Turton. Two minutes later, March curled a shot just over the bar and the same player was wide with a glancing header in the 18th minute following an inch perfect cross from Zack Foster. For all their osssession, Alvechurch were failing to work Sam Jones in the Haughmond goal. Jordan Nadat did hit the target on the half hour mark but it was straight at the keeper. Haughmond's first attemot came from a mistake by Foster who was robbed by Dave Howarth. From a narrow angle, the former Shrewsbury Town man saw his cross blocked by Paul Evans. Nadat missed a gilt edged opportunity for Alvehcurch, skewing a shot wide when played in by March. On the stroke of half-time, Sam Jones was forced into a decent save as March raced through the Haughmond defence.
Three minutes into the second half, Alvechurch came closs toscoring. A cross from Connor Deards was flicked goalwards by Nadat but Jones made a decent save. The opening goal of the game came in the 55th minute when Nadat raced through and sent a left-footed shot into the bottom corner. It was all Alvechurch with haughmond struggling to get out of their own half. Nadat curled a shot wide while March blasted over from a Turton corner. Nadat again flashed a shot wide as Alvechurch continued to press for a second. With 6 minutes left, Haughnond were close toan equaliser. A corner from the left was played into the path of Steve Hole who's shot was incheds wide of the post. In the final minute, Josh Sarmento was adjudged to have been fouled in the box. Zack Foster stepped up and converted the peanlty to seasl the tie for Alvechurch.
Tuesday August 9th
FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round Replay (3)
Wolverhampton Casuals 1 Lichfield City 2
A five minute drive from home gets me to Brinsford Lane, the home of West Midlands League
Wolverhampton Casuals. Tonight's replay with Lichfield City came after a 0-0 draw on Saturday with Cassies missing a second half penalty. Matches with Casuals tend to be full blooded affairs and this was no different. The first chance of the game fell to Casuals in the first minute but Alex Allen volleyed wide. Casuals were having the better of the early play and Jay Holcroft had a shot blocked by the Lichfield defence. Lichfield's first meaningful effort came from Craig Marshall whose 25 yard shot cannoned off the chest of casuals' keeper, Vitor Pinheiro to safety. Pinheiro made a fine save on the half hour mark to keep the scores level. An excellent cross from Dan Baxter was met at the far post Marshall and somehow Pinheiro saved at point blank range. It wasn't the same at the other end as Lichfield gifted Casuals the lead in the 35th minute. A back pass from Joe Clarke was missed by
Amrik Virdee, the Lichfield keeper and he stood motionless as the ball crossed the line for the opening goal. Casuals had opportunities to increase their lead before the break but Jordan Uppal headed over and Ian Boswell shot high into the trees when well placed.
Lichfield came out for the second half on the front foot. Liam Holt flashed a shot wide of the target while Marshall blasted wide. In the 50th minute, a free-kick from Luke Chapman was headed wide by
Marshall. Four minutes later the same two players combined for the same result, Marshall firing over the bar. Pinheiro mad a wonderful double save in the 59th minute to keep Lichfield at bay. Marshall' shot was on target and beaten away and when Holt hit the rebound, the keeper was there again. In the 71st minute, tempers boiled over as a poor challenge by Jon Holcroft for Casuals ended in the first appearance of handbags this season! Casuals almost clicnhed victory in the 77th minute. Ashley
Evans found space and his shot took a defelction but Virdee reacted well and palmed the ball to safety. Lichfield were back on terms in the 81st minute. Good work down the right from Jordan Evans teed up Marshall who hit a low shot into the far corner. The turnaround was completed two minuted from time when a poor defensive header by casuals was met on the volley by Clarke and he made no mistake giving Pinheiro no chance. There was still time for Jay Holcroft to shoot just wide but Lichfield had done enough to get through to the next round.
Shawbury United 0 Coventry United 1 (Abandoned after 87 minutes)
A second FA Cup trip into Shropshire to the town of Wem for the replay between Premier Division new boys, Shawbury United and Coventry United. This was my first visit to the Butler Sports Ground and my first impressions were positive. The main stand which forms the back of the social club has plenty of seating and a decent view of the pitch. These two sides drew 1-1 on Sunday and most of the supporters were expecting another close encounter. Shawbury were the first to show but Stuart Ellis' shot was well off target. Kai Williams, for Coventry ,whipped a cross from the left but it was just in front of Brian Ndlovu. Kieran Dovey managed to get the wrong side of the Coventry defence and set-up Liam Brant and his shot was saved by Richard Morris. Midway through the first half, a Josh O'Grady free-kick for Coventry was straight at Matthew Bullard. Marc Stallard missed a decent chance for Shawbury heading wide from a corner. O'Grady was the main threat for Coventry and in the space of 5 minutes at the end of the first half he had 4 shots blocked and a volley over the bar.
The second half began with Coventry well on top. A fierce drive from Kevin Thornton was palmed over by Bullard. In the 50th minute, Bullard excelled with a fine double save to thwart Jean Dakouri and Kai Williams. O'Grady continued to cause problems but he wasted one effort when trying to make the perfect opening instead of letting fly. In the 63rd minute, Coventry's pressure told and they took a deserved lead. A cross from the left by O'Grady was headed powerfully home at the far post by Chris Cox. Two minutes later, O'Grady's curling effort was saved by Bullard. Shawbury were denied an equaliser in the 76th minute by a wonderful save from Morris. Ellis created space and hit a superb shot which Morris tipped onto the crossbar. Within a minute, the woodwork saved Coventry again when Stallard rattled the bar. Stallard should have equalised in the 80th minute but his shot from Steve Faux's excellent cross was turned away by Morris. Coventry substitute Adam Bilic had a shot deflected wide for a corner. With three minutes left on the clock, the game was brought to a halt due to a serious injury to Liam Brant. With Brant receiving attention and being kep still by the physios, the game was held up for 53 minutes. The referee deemed that there was 8 minutes left to play and that there was time to play those 8 minutes (The floodlights have to be switched off at 2230). With the game about to restart, the ground was plunged into darkness as the lights went out. With the clock at 2223, the hoped for conclusion was not to be and the referee had no option other than to abandon the game. The most surreal of endings.
Review FA Cup
The opening game of the weekend saw Hinckley and Heanor Town draw 1-1 in a competitive cup tie.
A double from Joe Halsall eased Boldmere St Michaels into the next round with a 3-0 win at AFC Bridgnorth. Quorn went down by the odd goal in a seven goal thriller at Ashby Ivanhoe. Two goals from Nathan Dale looked to be sending Quorn through but the home side bounced back with a winner from James Parslow. League newcomers, St Andrews, bowed out of the competition losing 2-0 at Blaby and Whestone Athletic. Veteran striker Paul McMahon scored an 85th winner for
Brocton as they beat fellow Premier Division side Walsall Wood 2-1 at Silkmore Lane. Coleshill Town took a 2-0 lead inside the first half hour at home to West Midlands League Cradley Town but the Black Country side came back to take to the game to a replay on Tuesday. Highgate United scored 5 second half goals to progress at Coventry Sphinx. Both teams were reduced to ten men before Jak Jeys scored two quick goals to send Gate on their way. A Tom Bates goal in the first half for Nuneaton Griff was cancelled out by Dudley Sports and the two sides meet again at The Pingles Stadium on Wednesday. Alvechurch scored two second half goals to see off Haughmond to set-upa mouth watering tie at Edgar Street against Hereford. Bromsgrove Sporting continued their excellent pre-season form with a 3-0 victory at Heath Hayes. Lichfield City and Wolverhampton Casuals must meet again on Tuesday at Brinsford Lane following a goalless draw, Casuals missing a penalty in the second half. There was remarkable game at The University Stadium as Loughborough University and Shirebrook Town drew 4-4. Shirebrook were 3-1 up with 15 minutes left however the Students drew level in the 90th minute. Shirebrook regained the lead 6 minutes into time added on only for
Loughborough to equalise within a minute through Jeremiah Dasaolu to take the game to a replay.
AFC Wulfrunians took a 2-0 lead against Lye Town at Castlecroft but a hat-trick from newcomer Jack
Till gave Lye the win, with the winner coming five minutes from time. Rocester were victorious at
Malvern Town, 2-1 the margin. Long Eaton United are also through to the next round as they beat Oadby Town 2-1 with goals from Tom Marshall and Kevin Hemagou. Luke Kingsley Smith was on target for Leicester Road as they drew 1-1 at Retford United. Matty Stenson missed a penalty late on for Leicester Road and the two sides meet again on Tuesday night. Shepshed Dynamo suffered a disappointing home defeat against AFC Mansfield going down 4-0, former Aldershot Town winger Ryan Williams scoring twice. Former Stafford Rangers and Leek Town striker Dan Cope scored a 90th minute equaliser for Hanley Town at Sporting Khalsa. Khalsa had taken early lead through the prolific Craig Bannister but the two sides must meet again on Tuesday evening in the Potteries. There was a seven goal thriller at Walshes Meadow with a stoppage time goal from Craig Jones settling the game in Westfields favour in a 4-3 win over Stourport Swifts. Tividale raced into a 2-0 lead inside 8 minutes at home to Wolverhampton Sporting Community but had to endure a nervy finale as they held on to win 2-1. Coventry United and Shawbury United must meet again after a 1-1 draw at Sphinx Drive on Sunday. Josh O'Grady gave the home side the lead but an equaliser from James Askey took the game to a replay at Wem on Wednesday evening.
FA Cup Replays
Sporting Khalsa got the better of Hanley Town in their replay winning 3-1 in the Potteries. Coleshill
Town also progressed beating Cradley Town 4-1 with Luke Barlone scoring a hat-trick. Loughborough University overcame Shirebrook Town 3-0 following their dramatic late equaliser on Saturday. Ther e was an excellent win for Leicester Road as they beat Retford United 4-2 courtesy of a Matty Stenson hat-trick. Lichfield City had to come from behind to beat Wolverhampton Casuals, Joe Clarke scoring for both sides. Heanor Town are through to the next round with Nathan Benger scoring 3 in a 5-1 win over Hinckley AFC. Nuneaton Griff went out, beaten on penalties by Dudley Sports after it finished 3-3 after extra time. There was a dramatic finish in the replay between Shawbury United and Coventry United. With the visitors 1-0 ahead, the game was stopped with three minutes on the clock due to a serious injury to Shawbury's Liam Brant. After a 53 minute delay, the game was about to restart when the lights went out forcing the referee to abandon the game. The two sides will have to do it all over again.
On Saturday, the Premier Division season gets underway with a full round of matches. AFC Wulfrunians open their campaign at home to Boldmere St Michaels. The two teams had contrasting results in the FA Cup last weekend and the Mikes will start slight favourites. Last year's runners-up, Alvechurch start their campaign at home to another of last season's leading clubs, Heanor Town.
Both clubs look strong again this season and this is a tough encounter to kick off the season. Coleshill Town welcome Lye Town to Pack Meadow where there were goals a plenty last season. With a season on the 3G under their belts, a lot is expected of Coleshill this season. Coventry Sphinx had a disappointing afternoon in the FA Cup last weekend and they will be hoping to put things right when they welcome Brocton to Sphinx Drive. Long Eaton United welcome Stourport Swifts to Grange Park with a side that looks capable of challenging for honours. Swifts bowed out of the FA Cup last week at home to Westfields and will be hoping for a strong start to the campaign. Loughborough University and Highgate United scored 9 goals between them last Saturday and on the bowling green of The University Stadium this should be a superb game. Shawbury United begin life in the MFL with a home game against Quorn. The West Midlands League champions will be an unknown quantity for many of the MFL clubs and visitors Quorn, after a disappointing campaign last season, will set the marker. Shepshed Dynamo are well fancied to challenge this season although last week's FA Cup defeat will have hurt. Visitors Rocester won well away from home last week and will be hoping to build on last season's mid table finish. There is a huge opening game at the Aspray Arena as two of the expected challengers go head to head on opening day. Sporting Khalsa had a great first season in the MFL and will want to improve on their third placed finish. Visitors Coventry United have quickly moved up the leagues and last season's Division 1 champions have made some excellent signings for their debut at Step 5. St Andrews begin their life in the MFL with a home game against Westfields. St Andrews won the East Midlands Counties League by 7 points scoring 115 goals in the process and are expected to be a force in the MFL. Westfields had a poor season last time out but some notable recruits could see them back at the top end of the table. Tividale return to the Midland football League following relegation from Step 4. They welcome Walsall Wood to The Beeches on Saturday in a game that is very hard to call. Tividale have a mixture of youth an experience while Walsall Wood, a top 6 side from last season, have added some quality to their squad
There are a full round of midweek fixtures:
AFC Wulfrunians vs Stourport Swifts
Brocton vs Tividale
Coventry United vs Rocester
Highgate United vs Shepshed Dynamo
Long Eaton United vs Boldmere St Michaels
Loughborough University vs Lye Town
St Andrews vs Alvechurch
Wednesday 17th Auguts
Heanor Town vs Coleshill Town
Quorn vs Coventry Sphinx
Shawbury United vs Walsall Wood
Westfields vs Sporting Khalsa
A full programme in Division to start the campaign on Saturday. Atherstone Town welcome Stafford Town to Sheepy Road and much is expected from the Adders this season. Stafford have had a change in management and have pretty much a new squad which will be an unknown quantity as the season begins. Last year's runnersup Bromsgrove Sporting start as red hot favourites to clinch promotion this season. Their summer recruitment has been excellent and they start the campaign at home to Southam United who were reprieved from relegation at the end of last season. Cadbury Athletic welcome Pelsall Villa to the TSA Sports ground in their opener. Cadbury started well last season and the same again could set them up for a superb season. Pelsall struggled last term but a close season reprieve allows them to remain in Division 1 and start again. Heath Hayes made a slow start to last season but came good after Christmas. Visitors Heather St Johns looked destined for relaegation for most of the season but a good finish turned their season around. If they can take that momentum into this season, it could be exciting times at St johns park. Hinckley AFC are always tipped to do well and this season is no exception. They have recruited well and their performance against premier Division Heanor Town last week gave huge cause for optimism. Littleton are first up at St Johns Park and they too will be hoping to progress from last season's mid-table finish. Leicester Road had a superb first season at Step 6 and will be aiming for promotion. Coventry Copsewood are the visitors on Saturday and they can never be discounted. Pershore Town have been busy over the summer bringing back a number of former Pershore players to strengthen the squad. Visitors Nuneaton Griff were superb last season and that success has meant that a number of the players have been snapped up by other clubs. Whether Griff can reach last season's heights, only time will tell. Racing Club Warwick have seen major improvements to their Townsend Meadow ground over the summer.
They welcome Bolehall Swifts in the opener and both sides finished last season in good form. Studley welcome Lichfield City to the Beehive. Both clubs would have been disappointed with their finishes last season but both will be optimistic ahead of the season. Uttoxeter Town return to the MFL and welcome promoted Chelmsley Town to Oldfield Sports Centre. How will Uttoxeter fare on their return and how will Chelmsley cope with the step up? An intriguing start.
Bolehall Swifts vs Lichfield City
Chelmsley Town vs Pershore Town
Heather St Johns vs Coventry Copsewood
Pelsall Villa vs Leicester Road
Southam United vs Cadbury Athletic
Studley vs Racing Club Warwick
Uttoxeter town vs Nuneaton Griff
Atherstone Town vs Heath Hayes
Littleton vs Bromsgrove Sporting
Stafford Town vs Hinckley AFC (at Stafford Rangers FC)
Barnt Green Spartak get their Division 2 campaign under way with a home game against Sutton United. Both sides were comfortably in the middle of the table last season and will have ambitions to challenge at the top end of the table. New club Bloxwich Town, taking over from Rostance Edwards, welcome promoted Leamington Hibernian to the Red Lion Ground. With the momentum with Hibs from last season, it would be no surprise to see them mount a challenge. Droitwich Spa challenged for the title all the way through the season finishing a creditable third. They begin with a home game against Coton Green, who finished 7th last season. Fairfield Villa finished one off the bottom last season but have added to their squad over the summer to allow them to challenge. Visitors Continental Star finished bottom of the Premier Division and chose to drop two divisions. They will have a young and exciting squad and should be a pleasure to watch. Hampton open up with a home tie against Feckenham. The visitors struggled more than most with the weather last season and they will be hoping for a more clement winter. Redditch Borough begin their first season in Division 2 with a home game against last season's 4th paced Paget Rangers. This game will take place at Littleton FC as The Valley is not yet ready following the installation of a 3G pitch. Both sides finished the last campaign in super form and are expected to be amongst the front runners this season.
Smithswood Firs, promoted from Division 3, begin their season against mid-table Knowle. Smithswood have a strong looking squad and could well take Division 2 by storm.
Coton Green vs Fairfield Villa
Earlswood Town vs Redditch Borough (1830)
Feckenham vs Droitwich Spa (1830)
Smithswood Firs vs Paget Rangers (1830)
Sutton United vs Continental Star (1830)
Alvis Sporting Club vs Bloxwich Twon (1930)
Hampton vs Barnt Green Spartak (1830)
Knowle vs Leamington Hibernian (1830)
Division 3 could be a really exciting place to be this season with the addition of new faces alongside some of last season's strong performers. AFC Solihull endured a challenging introduction to the MFL. One year on, expect them to be much improved as they welcome Northfield Town to Tudor Grange. Alcester Town spent most of the season near the top of the table only to miss out in the run-in. They welcome league newcomers NKF Burbage to Old Stratford road on Saturday. Four promotions in 6 seasons indicates that NKF should be a force in the MFL. Barton United had a successful season finishing with silverware and a top 6 finish. Visitors FC Stratford finished just above Barton last season and both should be there or thereabouts. A great game to start the season. Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons welcome Shipston Excelsior to Boldmere Road in their opening game. Shipston acquitted themselves well in their first season and a late run of victories kept them in the promotion mix. Can they build in it? League newcomers Castle Vale Town welcome Coventrians to their Vale Stadium home. With a strong youth set-up at both clubs, expect to see some exciting young talent gracing the MFL. Two new teams go head to head at Badsey as Montpellier host Moors Academy. The home side have had some excellent results in pre-season and look like the team to beat this season. They couldn't ask for a more difficult opening with the youngsters from the Solhull Moors Academy.
Rocester vs Gresley (Challenge trophy)
Coton Green vs Continental Star (Challenge trophy)
Romulus vs Lichfield City (League)
Tipton Town vs Brocton (League)
Alvis Sporting Club were successful in the appeal against the decision to relegate the club to Division 3 and have been placed by the FA in Division 2 for the forthcoming season.
It is with great sadness that the Midland Football League has to report the loss of two members of the MFL family. Bromsgrove Sporting Chairman, John Prescott passed away suddenly but peacefully. on July 12th This shock was followed by the news that Stourport Swifts Chairman, Chris Reynolds passed away on the 22nd July, after a long battle against cancer. Our condolences go out to family, friends and all that knew Jon and Chris.
The draw for the 1st Round of the Polymac Packaging League Cup is as follows:
Brocton v Uttoxeter Town
Bromsgrove Sporting v Sporting Khalsa
Pershore Town v Southam United
Racing Club Warwick v Cadbury Athletic
Shepshed Dynamo v Heather St Johns
St Andrews v Coventry United
Atherstone Town v Bolehall Swifts
Heanor Town v Stafford Town
Littleton v Studley
All other clubs receive a bye to the 2nd Round
The above ties are to be played w/c 19th September 2016
The football season kicks off with a weekend of FA Cup action. As a departure from the norm, I have taken a look at each of the game in turn.
Friday 5th August
Hinckley AFC (MFL1) vs Heanor Town (MFLP)
An intriguing start to the season as two free-scoring sides go head to head at St Johns Park. Hinckley beat Premier Division Walsall Wood at the same stage last season and will be hopeful of another giant-killing. Heanor failed to progress in last season's competition and will be looking for better this time round.
Saturday 6th August
AFC Bridgnorth (WMRLP) vs Boldmere St Michaels (MFLP)
The Mikes travel to Shropshire to face a side that just missed out on promotion to the MFl last season. The home side will fancy their chances of causing an upset at their Crown Meadow home. The Mikes have made some impressive additions to their squad over the summer and will expect to progress although it may take a replay
Ashby Ivanhoe (EMCL) vs Quorn (MFLP)
Ashby make their debut in the FA Cup welcoming Premier Division Quorn to the NFU Sports Ground.
Ashby go into the game with some confidence with a win over MFL Premier opponents, Walsall Wood, in pre-season. Quorn had a difficult 2015/16 and much more is expected of them this term.
Blaby & Whetstone Athletic (EMCL) vs St Andrews (MFLP)
These two sides were league rivals last season but with St Andrews winning the title they are now a division apart. The MFL new boys have looked good in pre-season and they will be hoping to progress.
Brocton (MFLP) vs Walsall Wood (MFLP)
These two sides know each well and will be hard to separate in this tasty encounter at Silkmore Lane. Pre-season results have been mixed for both but now the real stuff commences and that can all be forgotten. A replay wouldn't be a shock here.
Coleshill Town (MFLP) vs Cradley Town (WMRL)
Coleshill had a stellar run in the FA Cup last season taking a number of high-profile scalps. At times last season, they were scoring goals for fun and West Midlands League Cradley will do well to shut out the home side.
Coventry Sphinx (MFLP) vs Highgate United (MFLP)
A tasty all Premier Division tie at Sphinx Drive with much-changed Sphinx hoping to make home advantage count. Highgate have performed well in some high profile pre-season games which must give them confidence going into the season.
Dudley Sports (WMRL) vs Nuneaton Griff (MFL1)
Griff have seen a number of their successful side from last season move on but the hope is that they continue to produce the sort of free-flowing football that gained then so many admirers. A trip to Brierley Hill to face West Midlands League opposition is a tough one but Griff should start as favourites.
Haughmond (WMRL) vs Alvechurch (MFLP)
An FA Cup debut for Shrewsbury based Haughmond and a tough fixture for last season's MFl runners-up Alvechurch. Haughmond just missed out on promotion last season and will prove tough opposition for Alvechurch. The carrot of an away tie and a potential money spinner at Edgar Street against Hereford is enough incentive for both sides. This should be a cracker.
Heath Hayes (MFL1) vs Bromsgrove Sporting (MFL1)
A battle between two of the top sides in Division 1. Bromsgrove have had a fantastic pre-season on the pitch winning all 7 games. Heath Hayes have also had some decent results and this promises to be another excellent game. The new-look Bromsgrove may just have the edge.
Lichfield City (MFL1) vs Wolverhampton Casuals (WMRL)
Lichfield have undergone some squad changes in the summer however their refreshed line-up will be confident of victory after some decent results in pre-season. Wolves Casuals are a tough side to face on any occasion and the FA Cup is likely to bring the best out of them. Home advantage to count in this one.
Loughborough University (MFLP) vs Shirebrook Town (NCEL1)
Early season is never a true indicator of the potential of the students as they have a number of players unavailable. A two division difference between themselves and visitors Shirebrook Town should be sufficient for them to progress at The University Stadium.
Lye Town (MFLP) vs AFC Wulfrunians (MFLP)
Another all Premier Division clash switched to Castlecroft due to the unavailability of Stourbridge Road. Like many teams, Wulfrunians pre-season has been mixed. An interesting sub plot is the return to Castlecroft of Ben Jevons, now in the colours of Lye.
Malvern Town (WMRL) vs Rocester (MFLP)
A tough looking trip for Premier Division Rocester as they travel to the Langland Stadium. Malvern look a strong side on paper while Rocester haven't exactly been tearing up trees in pre-season. A replay would be a decent result for the Romans.
Oadby Town (UCL) vs Long Eaton united (MFLP)
Oadby have been conceding plenty of goals in pre-season including a 6-1 defeat at home to Leicester Road. The Long Eaton squad looks very good this season and a comfortable away win should be on the cards.
Retford United (NCEL) s Leicester Road (MFL1)
Retford include a 7-0 home defeat amongst their pre-season results while Leicester Road won 6-1 at
Oadby. Taking one look at these results and an away win would seem the obvious choice. Leicester Road had an excellent first season at Step 6 and will be amongst the challengers in Division 1. A good FA Cup run will certainly be amongst their targets for the season.
Shepshed Dynamo (MFLP) vs AFC Mansfield (NCEL)
A tough draw for Dynamo as they face a side who have beaten fellow premier Division side Heanor Town in pre-season. Their squad features players who have plied their trade a lot higher in the non-league pyramid. Shepshed have seen off higher ranked opposition in pre-season and go into the game full of confidence. Should be another excellent game.
Sporting Khalsa (MFLP) vs Hanley Town (NWCL)
Sporting Khalsa were under the media spotlight last season as their FA Cup run took them to a 4th
Qualifying round tie against FC United of Manchester in front of 2,000 plus at The Aspray Arena. The publicity gained did wonders for the club and they will be hoping for something similar when they face North West Counties Hanley Town. Hanley won promotion last season and will provide a tough task for Khalsa.
Stourport Swifts (MFLP) vs Westfields (MFLP)
Another all Premier Division clash and on which could go either way. Westfields have been in good goalscoring form in pre-season and the improvements to their squad look to be paying dividends. Swifts started last season very well and will hope to get out of the blocks at Walshes Meadow on Saturday.
Tividale (MFLP) vs Wolverhampton Sporting Community (WMRL)
Tividale return to the Midland Football League looking for a quick return to step 4. Their FA Cup adventure starts with a tough looking encounter against Wolverhampton Sporting Community. Wolves Sporting impressed a lot of people last season and with a lot of pace in the side, they can cause defences all sorts of issues. Tividale will have to be on their game to progress.
Sunday, August 7th
Coventry United (MFLP) vs Shawbury United (MFLP)
What a game to finish the FA Cup weekend. Two new Premier Division sides face up at Sphinx Drive for United's debut in the competition. Both sides gained promotion last season on the back of excellent goal scoring records and would expect to hit the ground running. Expect to see [lenty of Premier Division clubs represented as they take a look at new opposition for the season.