АФК Уимбълдън (AFC Wimbledon)

[AFC_Wimbledon]

(12.01.2008 , 17:00 ч)
FA Trophy (Second Round Proper)
Tonbridge vs Wimbledon

Еврофутбол:
A351..........ТОНБРИДЖ - УИМБЪЛДЪН..........3.00.....3.10.....1.75
(Прогноза : 2)

Wimbledon chase FA Trophy dream

AFC Wimbledon manager Terry Brown believes his side can continue their pursuit of a league and cup double by chasing promotion and the FA Trophy.

The Dons have moved into a challenging position in the Ryman Premier Division. And on Saturday they face a last-32 clash at league rivals Tonbridge Angels in the Trophy, with Brown setting his sights on further progress.

He told BBC Sport: "At the start of the season the priority was promotion, followed closely by the FA Cup and the FA Trophy. They were the three things we targeted. Ryman League clubs have not only got to the Trophy final before but have won it. We have a side that is more than capable of holding its own against Conference teams and our aim is to get to the last 16 if we can."

Wimbledon and Tonbridge are the two lowest-ranked sides left in the competition with the Angels currently struggling near the foot of the Ryman Premier table. However, despite Wimbledon's run of seven wins in their last eight games, Brown is taking nothing for granted, having drawn away at the Kent club in their last meeting in November. He added: "They have had a very good run in the Trophy, especially beating Oxford in the last round, so it should be a really exciting game."

Wimbledon will include a Trophy winner from last season in their side in ex-Stevenage midfielder Mark Beard, while striker Mark DeBolla was with Grays Athletic when they won the competition in 2006.

[AFC_Wimbledon]

(12.01.2008 , 17:00 ч)
FA Trophy (Second Round Proper)
Tonbridge 0:4 Wimbledon
(0:1 Daniel Webb 13` | 0:2 Mark De Bolla 45` | 0:3 Mark De Bolla 58` | 0:4 Richard Jolly 90`)


Видео репортаж:
0:1 Daniel Webb -> тук
0:2 Mark De Bolla -> тук
0:3 Mark De Bolla -> тук
0:4 Richard Jolly -> тук

Wimbledon On The Wembley Trail

The draw for the last 16 of the FA Trophy has been made and there is no doubt about the standout tie- AFC Wimbledon host Blue Square Premier promotion chasers Torquay United.

Their progress actually started in the Second Qualifying Round and they have won four ties to reach this stage.

Though promotion is a priority this season- AFC lie 3rd in the Ryman Premier- there are those who see them as dark horses for the Trophy.

And if you like omens, it is 20 years since Wimbledon shocked the football worlds by not only reaching the FA Cup Final but despatching a star studded Liverpool squad to lift the prize.

In their ranks, AFC Wimbledon also have a link back to their Cup-fighting days as a League club. 37 year old Marcus Gayle has rejoined the club as defender.

In 1997, then playing as striker, he scored the only goal that knocked Manchester United out of the FA Cup as Wimbledon went all the way to the semi-finals.

[AFC_Wimbledon]

Ryman Premier League (19.01.2008)

Folkenstone 3:2 Wimbledon
(1:0 Kevin Watson 46` | 2:0 Tom Bryant 57` | 2:1 Steve Ferguson 63` | 3:1 Kevin Watson 86` | 3:2 Jon Main 90`)

Ryman Premier League (22.01.2008)

Billericay 2:2 Wimbledon
(1:0 Bradley Woods-Garness 42` | 1:1 Richard Jolly 48` | 2:1 Leon Hunter 57` | 2:2 Samuel Hatton 88`)




Класиране -> тук



Eric Samuelson : Wimbledon will win promotion this season

WIMBLEDON chairman Erik Samuelson says he is more confident than ever that the club will win promotion this season - despite being an eternal pessimist.

The Dons chief has overseen a host of changes since being appointed to the role on a permanent basis last March, but believes the club is moving in the right direction on and off the field.

"I'm convinced that we will win promotion - and I'm always a pessimist," said Samuelson. "Saturday's defeat at

Folkestone was a setback but we should have won and could have won. If we had done the things we normally do - the things Terry Brown calls the dirty work - then we would have been fine.

"Our hopes in the league are not completely in our hands any more but Chelmsford will slip up again and that means we mustn't. I'm happy with the position we're in - it's very similar to the situation Chelmsford were in last season after a change of manager and a number of new players arriving.

[AFC_Wimbledon]

(02.02.2008 , 17:00 ч)
FA Trophy (1/8 Final)
Wimbledon vs Torquay

Еврофутбол:
A337..........УИМБЪЛДЪН - ТОРКИ..........3.40.....3.25.....1.60
(Прогноза : 1 )

Show that old Dons spirit

AFC Wimbledon boss Terry Brown wants his players to evoke memories of the Crazy Gang to pull off a cup upset at Kingsmeadow tomorrow.
"I will put my physically strongest side out.
"I am not going to be rolled over at home and I want players out there prepared to put a foot in.
"It might not be pretty, but the fans have watched some pretty stuff from us before where we haven't been committed.
"I think what the fans want now is a bit of the old Wimbledon spirit."

ROSCOE'S MIXED EMOTIONS

Wimbledon 'old boy' Roscoe D'Sane has promised not to whoop it up if he opens his Torquay United goalscoring account against the Dons in Saturday's FA Trophy Third Round tie at Kingsmeadow.

Striker D'Sane scored 17 goals for Wimbledon last season before moving to League Two Accrington Stanley, and then to the Gulls last weekend.By a twist of fixture fate, his second game for Torquay will be against the Dons.

"I had a sneaky look at Torquay's fixtures as soon as I knew the move here was on, and it's ironic that the second game is against my old club.
"The fans are brilliant down there, and I really want Wimbledon to do well - but not against us.
"I'm keen to start scoring for Torquay.
"But I will have to tone down the celebrations if it happens on Saturday."

New FA Chairman Lord Triesman to attend Trophy game

The newly appointed independent chairman of the FA, Lord Triesman, will be attending FA Trophy game between Wimbledon and Torquay on Saturday.With the current chairman, Geoff Thompson, stepping down on 31 January, Lord Triesman will be in only his second day in his new role when he joins us for the game at the Cherry Red Records Fans' Stadium - Kingsmeadow.

[AFC_Wimbledon]

(02.02.2008 , 17:00 ч)
FA Trophy (1/8 Final)
Wimbledon 0:2 Torquay
( 0:1 Roscoe D`Sane pen.47` | 0:2 Lee Phillips 76` )

Голмайсторът на Уимбълдън за изминалия сезон Роско Д'Сейн , класира Торки за 1/4 Финалите

The Dons acquitted themselves well in an even and cagey first half, but hopes for a continuation of the two year unbeaten Trophy run were dashed in the 47th minute. Ferguson's dribble was halted by a dubious tackle and Torquay broke up field. Jason Goodliffe's challenge in the box was ruled illegal and ex-Don Roscoe Dsane put away the resulting penalty.

A second penalty awarded following an Antony Howard challenge was blazed over by Tim Sills. The Dons were unable to capitalise and despite a change to the formation and the use of all substitutes they could not threaten a composed Torquay outfit who sealed the win with a second courtesy of Lee Phillips in the 79th minute.

[AFC_Wimbledon]

Ryman Premier League (09.02.2008)

Harrow Borough 0:2 Wimbledon
(0:1 Anthony Howard 14` | 0:2 Karl Beckford 41`)

Класиране -> тук

Rose joins Wimbledon

QPR youngster Romone Rose has joined Ryman Premier outfit AFC Wimbledon on work experience.

The teenager will still be able to play for the R's reserves as part of the agreement.

Youth team manager Steve Brown said: "It will provide great experience for him. He has done very well playing for the Under-18's but he needs to play at a higher level now and this will enable him to do that.

WIMBLEDON may have crashed out of the London Senior Cup on Tuesday night, but Romone Rose's debut offered plenty of cause for optimism.

A second string Dons side went down 4-1 at Blue Square South outfit Bromley, but Rose put in a promising performance in his first start for the Dons.

Rose was signed on Monday on a work experience deal from Championship strugglers Queens Park Rangers.

He scored in the 83rd minute to cap a fine display, and now is in contention for a starting place against Harrow Borough on Saturday.

"I really felt that we needed to inject some new blood into the team this week and add some pace up front," said Brown.

"He has the ability to score goals and he is a very talented boy.

"We have a very good relationship with some of the people at QPR and the boy's father was very enthusiastic for him to come and play some first-team football.

Dons set to continue signing spree

WIMBLEDON boss Terry Brown is set to continue his signing spree with the capture of Farnborough midfielder Rob Saunders.

The South London Press has learned that the Dons made a seven-day approach for the 26-year-old on Friday - and he is now considering whether to move to Kingsmeadow.

Saunders has scored 18 goals in 19 starts from midfield this

season for the BGB Division One South and West outfit -and Brown believes he could be the man to fill the problematic attacking midfield role.

"I've had a brief chat with Terry and his assistant Stuart Cash,"said Saunders.

"I know of them because I always keep an eye on the non-league scene and they both have good reputations.

"They want the situation to be resolved relatively quickly and I don't want to leave either club in limbo.

"I'm thinking the move over and I will make a decision as soon as possible.

"Wimbledon is the only club that I would consider leaving Farnborough for."

Luis Cumbers becomes a Womble

Gillingham youngster Luis Cumbers has joined AFC Wimbledon on work experience. The 19-year-old striker, who has made 5 appearances for the Gills this season, has previously enjoyed spells at Grays Athletic and Maidstone United. He goes straight into Terry Brown's side to face Harrow Borough on Saturday.

Brown made a move for Cumbers after he impressed during a close door friendly against Dagenham and Redbridge on Tuesday which the Daggers won 5-1.

I'm sure all Gills fans will wish Luis all the best and hope he can score the goals needed to fire AFC Wimbledon up the Ryman League Premier Division.

When asked about transfers in general manager Mark Stimson admitted that the move will give Luis much needed first team experience, but their are still some senior players disrupting his plans for the future of the club.

He said: "We are gradually getting rid of players who don't want to put sweat and blood into their performances. There's still one or two who are happy to plod along - if I'd wanted to do that I would have stayed at Stevenage."

[AFC_Wimbledon]

Ryman Premier League (12.02.2008)

Horsham 0:2 Wimbledon
(0:1 Luis Cumbers 23` | 0:2 Robin Shroot 57`)

Класиране -> тук

SHROOT BACK TO HELP DONS TO SECOND SPOT

AFC Wimbledon moved into second place in the Ryman League Premier Division on Tuesday night - albeit twelve points adrift of Chelmsford City - following a 2-0 win at Queen Street against fellow play-off hopefuls Horsham.

Luis Cumbers opened the scoring by heading in a Luke Garrard cross after 23 minutes. The second came around the hour-mark when Robin Shroot (pictured), back from his loan spell with Harrow Borough, wrapped up victory.

CASUALS CELEBRATE BY PLAYING DONS AT WEMBLEY

Corinthian-Casuals, currently members of the Ryman Leage Division On South, will take on Preier Division AFC Wimbledon in a friendly match at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, 13th April at 3pm.

Fans will travel to the National Stadium to watch their teams play on what is set to be an historic day for the two clubs at one of the most famous football stadiums in the world.

The match will have even more significance for the Corinthian-Casuals as it happens to coincide with the 125th anniversary of the two "parent" clubs - the Corinthians founded in 1882 and the Casuals founded in 1883. The two clubs then merged to form the Corinthian–Casuals in 1939.

Wimbledon’s record at Wembley – a remarkable double – may never be beaten. In 1963 they won the FA Amateur Cup, beating Sutton 4–2 in the Final; then in 1988, after a rapid series of promotions through the Football League, Wimbledon won the F.A Cup , defeating League Champions Liverpool 1–0 in what’s still seen as one of the greatest upsets in Cup Final history.

Playing links between the two clubs go back over 80 years. One of the earliest matches was in November 1922 when the Casuals, one of the parent clubs, and Wimbledon met in the 4th Qualifying Round of the F.A Amateur Cup. After a 1–1 draw at Wimbledon`s Plough Lane ground, Wimbledon won the replay 6–2 on the same ground. The crowd was recorded as 8000. Since then the clubs have met many times in the Isthmian, now Ryman League.

Former Fulham player and Coventry City boss Jimmy Hill OBE (right), President of Corinthian-Casuals said: “We are honoured that our Corinthian past has brought us this opportunity to play at the new Wembley. It is a huge encouragement to all of us at the club and a reminder of the importance of upholding the sporting values so clearly established by our founders.”

Erik Samuelson, Chief Executive of AFC Wimbledon said: “Every player dreams of playing at Wembley, every manager dreams of leading his team out at Wembley, and every fan dreams of seeing his team play at Wembley. So we were delighted and honoured when the Corinthian-Casuals invited us to take part in their celebrations and return to Wembley 20 years after our team won the FA Cup there. Our thanks go to the Corinthian-Casuals for this generous invitation.

[AFC_Wimbledon]

Ryman Premier League (16.02.2008)

Wimbledon 5:0 Leyton
(1:0 Samuel Hatton 13` | 2:0 Luis Cumbers 26` | 3:0 Daniel Webb 51` | 4:0 Luke Pigden 76` | 5:0 Samuel Hatton 88`)



Howard's end

187 apps. 21 goals

THE post-match news of Antony Howard's imminent departure from Wimbledon meant a thoroughly satisfactory Saturday afternoon turned into an evening tinged with disappointment.

The big central defender, who has racked up 171 appearances for the club, will quit Kingsmeadow in April to take up a coaching post in America.

The departure of the Dons' longestserving player - a huge favourite with the club's fans - will come as a major blow to manager Terry Brown.

Howard has been a regular in the side since recovering from the hand injury which ruled him out for most of pre-season, and the 24-year-old has been one of his team's most consistent performers.

The former Hendon defender's decision to pursue a new career abroad is a significant blow to the Dons' promotion hopes, though he will no doubt be striving to help the club into the best position possible before jetting off.

"Frankie" was, as ever, an assured performer against Leyton, combining with the unflappable Marcus Gayle to deny the visitors even the slightest sight of goal.



Ryman Premier League (19.02.2008)

Wimbledon 6:1 Wealdstone
(1:0 Luis Cumbers 16` | 2:0 Steve Ferguson 38` | 3:0 Daniel Webb 57` | 4:0 Tony Finn 59` | 5:0 Rob Quinn 71`| 6:0 Mark De Bolla 78` | 6:1 Dean Papali 90`)

AFC Wimbledon boss Terry Brown has admitted he still wants an attacking midfielder, despite watching side hit Wealdstone for six.

Goals from Luis Cumber, Steve Ferguson, Daniel Webb, Tony Finn, Rob Quinn and Mark Da Bolla gave their side a 6-1 triumph on Tuesday.

The Dons have now scored 15 goals in four games, but Brown, who failed to lure Farnborough's Rob Saunders to Kingsmeadow last week, is not totally satisfied with his side's attacking threat.

"We are busy in the middle and when we get the ball out to our wide players they create things, but we are desperate for somebody in the middle who can pick a pass," he said.

"I've been looking all over for one, but I haven't had too much joy in that department.

"It is a shame we didn't get Rob as he is a very talented boy, can pass the ball for fun and he would have fitted in well here."

Steve Ferguson's curling effort helped give the Dons a 2-0 half-time advantage, after Luis Cumbers had benefited from a comical mix-up in the Wealdstone defence, to give his side the lead.

And Brown was only too please to see his side put the opposition to the sword after the break for the second match in succession.

"I think 6-1 flattered us a bit because our first four goals had an element of luck and an element of bad defending about them," he added.

"We've been a bit guilty in the past of getting a couple up and not putting the match to bed, but we certainly finished them off tonight and played some decent football.

"It just would have been nice to have kept a clean sheet and I was disappointed with the way we conceded."

Класиране -> тук

11 гола за 3 дена

[AFC_Wimbledon]

Ryman Premier League (23.02.2008)

Heybridge 2:1 Wimbledon
( 0:1 Luis Cumbers 4` | 1:1 Reggie Savage 48` | 2:1 Reggie Savage 74`)

Wimbledon failed to take advantage of the results of their nearest challengers when a lacklustre second half display allowed the Swifts to overcome a half time deficit to run out the winners by the odd goal of three.

The Dons got off to a perfect start when Luis Cumbers was quickest to react when Daniel Webb’s header was blocked, and drilled the ball home for his fourth goal in four games. Despite having much the better of the first half, the Dons failed to create many clear-cut chances, although Webb should have increased the lead with only the goalkeeper to beat.

The second half had only been under way a few minutes when Reggie Savage cut in from the right and hit a left footed shot past James Pullen, and into the net via the inside of the post. The same player broke away twenty minutes later, and his well- struck shot again beat Pullen.

The Dons tried to recover the position but the increasing number of long balls were either cleared by the Swifts’ centre backs or picked off by the keeper, who was only called upon once to make a good save throughout the half.

Terry Brown was bitterly disappointed with the second half performance. “I did not think we worked hard enough or do the basics right in the second half. The difference between the two teams was Reggie Savage, who ran our defence ragged and scored two well-taken goals. In midfield we didn’t look lively or bright enough, and this has happened too many times. Every time we start a good run we trip up and land on our faces. One or two of my players need to learn some lessons quickly.

“If I can make some changes for the game against Margate on Tuesday I will do. If I look at good performances today I can really only limit those to Luke Garrard and Chris Hussey, and no-one else comes to mind”.



Ryman Premier League (26.02.2008)

Wimbledon 2:1 Margate
( 1:0 Romone Rose 79` | 1:1 Louis Smith 87` | 2:1 Jason Goodliffe 90`)

Captain Jason Goodliffe prodded in the latest of last gasp winner to snatch a win in what must surely have been one of the most thrilling matches of the season. With 79 minutes gone of a perfectly serviceable but ultimately frustrating 0-0 Rose looked to have sealed the win with a cool, one on one, finish. But then the Dons appeared to have thrown it all away by conceding from a corner in the 87 minute.


Класиране -> тук

[AFC_Wimbledon]

The FA Cup back in Wimbledon

The FA Cup returns to Wimbledon this week when Merton Council launches a memorab-ilia exhibition at Morden Library.

The display comes 20 years after the greatest day in the club's history, the 1-0 FA Cup final win over Liverpool at Wembley, and an area dedicated to that team is a centrepiece of the exhibit.

It will include a miniature version of the famous trophy presented to the club after their sensational victory.

Other items on show are the match ball from the first League game played by the Dons in 1977, programmes and a selection of match photographs chronicling Wimbledon through the years.

The exhibition will remain open as the hype builds ahead of the Dons' return to Wembley for a showpiece friendly with Corinthian Casuals on Sunday, April 13.

Several members of the 1988 squad have confirmed their attendance, including Alan Cork, Lawrie Sanchez, Dave Beasant and John Scales.

[AFC_Wimbledon]

Skipper set to stay with Dons

JASON Goodliffe is set to stay at Wimbledon after opening contract talks with the club.

The 33-year-old Dons skipper has a deal until the end of the season, with an option for a further year.

And Goodliffe revealed he has already held discussions with manager Terry Brown and chairman Erik Samuelson about re-signing.

"We've had initial talks and hopefully something will be resolved soon," Goodliffe said. "I would definitely like to stay. I'm not looking to move on and there's no truth in the rumours that I might retire.

"I've been really pleased with my form this season and I've been in discussions with Terry and Erik.

Long goodbye

FANS' favourite Antony Howard has revealed he offered to quit Kingsmeadow when he announced his move to America earlier this month.

The Dons defender will leave the club in April to pursue a coaching career in New York.

But he told boss Terry Brown and chairman Erik Samuelson he would walk away immediately if they wanted him to.

"Everyone at the club has been hugely supportive," said Howard.

"When I told Terry and Erik about my decision, I said to them that the ball was completely in their court and that I would be behind whatever decision they chose to make.

"I said I would leave if they wanted me to so they could use the money to get someone new in, or I would sit on the bench and act as cover, or I would play and give everything for the time I'm here.

"I spoke to Terry's assistant Stuart Cash the other day and he said they didn't want me to leave. That was exactly what I wanted to hear. I really want to stay and do a good job from now until I leave.

"I want to play as much as I can but I understand that teams have to look to the future.The play-offs are a possibility and I'm not going to be here for them, so the club has to be looking at that and I have to understand that.

"Everyone's been great with me and they've understood exactly where I'm coming from. Erik and Terry have been really good about the situation and that's been a big help.

"I'm full of sadness at leaving Wimbledon. I've been here more than three years and it was a difficult decision to make, but it was one I had to make in order to get a career under way.

"I'm gutted that I'm leaving in many ways, because I really wanted to help the club into the Blue Square Premier.

"Leaving Wimbledon was the main thing I had to think about when making this decision. I've got no ties here so Wimbledon was the only question I had to consider.

"But it's difficult to hold down a career and play at a good standard. Wimbledon is very demanding because it's such a professional club,and a lot is expected of you in terms of training and matches.

"I've never been to America before and it was an opportunity I couldn't turn down. It will be good to have a change in my life and to start afresh.

"I haven't had a career since I left university and I didn't want to come out of football when I'm 35 - no matter how great a time I've had - and not have achieved anything outside of the game.

"I've been temping in the City and it's been perfect because it's allowed me to do the hours I want, but life can be a bit monotonous here, doing the nine to five job then training and then going back to the job again."

The 24-year-old centre-half will be working with 12 to 16-year-olds and will be based within a college - a position he will fill for at least the next year.But he is not ruling out the possibility of a Dons return in the future.

"There's a chance that I could come back to the UK in a year, and if that happened then I'd love to return to Wimbledon, but football's not usually that straightforward,"he said.

"You never know what will happen, and I will need to focus entirely on making the move to America a success.

"It will be sad playing in my last home game. The fans have been brilliant and the club is one in a million. There will be things that I will really miss and stepping out for the last time will be a very sad moment.

"But the title race certainly isn't over yet for us, so there's plenty still to do before I go, and even if it goes to the play-offs, then I have every confidence that this team is good enough and that we'll win promotion."

Rose hoping to grow in stature at Wimbledon

ROMONE Rose is relishing the chance to prove his worth to Dons boss Terry Brown after scoring his first league goal for the club against Margate on Tuesday night.

The 18-year-old is on a work experience contract from Championship outfit QPR, but could be recalled at any time.

"It felt brilliant to score my first league goal for AFC Wimbledon," said Rose.

"I've been sitting on the bench but it's nice to start. I felt like I'd done well when I came on in those games, I worked hard and now that I've been given a start I've had a chance to show the manager and the fans what I'm made of.

"Terry said I did really well and told me to keep up the good work. I'm forming a good partnership with Luis Cumbers - I like playing with him because he's a good player."

Rose says he has enjoyed the challenge of playing Ryman League football, and would be pleased to remain until the end of the season.

"I'm happy to stay," he said. "I like it here and I'm looking to score more goals and to learn.

"QPR can bring me back whenever they want so I don't know how long I'll be here, but I'm enjoying my time at Wimbledon. It's all good experience for me."

Alfie Potter comes to Wimbledon

19 year-old Alfie, who is a pacy midfielder/forward, came through the youth team ranks at Peterborough. He spent a month’s loan at Grays Athletic in September 2007, where he made one appearance, coming on as a substitute against Exeter City. In November he moved on loan to Havant & Waterlooville where he made nine appearances. He played in their 5–2 fourth round FA Cup defeat to Liverpool and played a big part in their second goal when his shot took a deflection off Martin Skrtel. For that feat, Alfie was named "Player of the Round".



Голът на Алфи Потър на Анфийлд срещу Ливърпул -> тук

[AFC_Wimbledon]

Ryman Premier League (01.03.2008)

Wimbledon 4:0 Hastings
( 1:0 Samuel Hatton 20` | 2:0 Robin Shroot 33` | 3:0 Lee Worgan o.g. 73` | 4:0 Steve Ferguson 76`)

In difficult conditions at Kingsmeadow, AFC Wimbledon turned on the style, scoring four and derailing a gradually improving Hastings United side. With play hampered by a piercing early year sun and a rasping wind, goals by Hatton, Shroot, a bizarre own goal and Ferguson secured the points for Wimbledon on St David’s day in front of 2,711 fans. Terry Brown made three changes to his side, bringing in Beard, Shroot and newly signed Alfie Potter for his eagerly anticipated Wombles debut. AFC Wimbledon may be eight points behind leaders Chelmsford City, but they haven`t given up hope of taking the Ryman Leahue Premier Divisioin title just yet.

Early on, conditions prevented many chances being produced, as both teams acclimatised to the conditions. However, Alfie Potter was soon showcasing the skills that were on display at Anfield a few weeks ago and the winger settled quickly and began with some neat touches. It must be said that the side to settle first was Hastings. Tony Dolby has inspired more confidence in the relegation battlers and they forced James Pullen in the Wimbledon goal into action, tipping over shots from Sam Adams and Nathan Simpson, although perhaps the Hastings agenda was apparent from their decision to leave four back at the resulting corners.

It seemed Kingsmeadow was in for an afternoon of pernickety refereeing, as Mr Venamore saw some early collisions very differently from the majority of onlookers. Yet at least the man in the middle remained consistent. After presenting Hastings with a dangerous free kick for the slightest of challenges, moments later he rewarded AFC Wimbledon with an equally generous free kick, in a threatening position. Sam Hatton stepped up and unleashed a thunderbolt of a shot into the top corner to give Wimbledon the lead with just under 20 minutes played.

Having acquired the lead, confidence oozed into the Wombles game as the likes of Finn and Rose began troubling defenders more frequently. Rose was working hard up front and was unlucky to take the ball too wide having rounded Lee Worgan in the Hastings goal. Gayle nodded over from Potter’s consequent corner delivery.

Just after the half hour mark, another set piece resulted in a goal for Wimbledon. Hatton again took the kick, though this time the midfielder turned provider as Robin Shroot reacted quickest, racing in at the near post and deftly putting the ball into the back of the net. Wimbledon continued to press for more spoils as the half neared its conclusion, only briefly paused for Tim Olorunda and Mark Beard to exchange yellow cards.

The second half began and Wimbledon maintained their grip on the game, dominating proceedings. Seven minutes in, Potter began taunting his marker and sent in two impressive crosses from the left in as many minutes, which should have resulted in more. On 55 minutes Hussey again linked up well with Potter, the fullback cutting in and narrowly driving a shot over.

Hastings had to gamble, as manager Dolby saw his side were being wholly penned back, and hence Matt Maclean was introduced to add to the attacking options. From any subsequent throw or set piece in Wimbledon’s half, central defender Nathan Russell began appearing in the Wombles box with orders to win flick-ons. This tactic turned the match back into a contest as the hefty defender began causing problems.

Soon afterwards, the game reached its turning point. With men pushed forward, more chances were being manufactured for Hastings and - just after the hour mark - Antonio Gonnella raced clear on the right for the visitors and released a perfect cross for Danny Leach who somehow managed to hit the bar from a couple of yards out. Moments later, Leach suffered deja vu; racing past Goodliffe and Gayle, the striker lobbed Pullen, yet saw his effort once again come back off the bar. Had Leach been more clinical, perhaps the visitors would have troubled Wimbledon further

However, clearly wounded from Leach’s misses, Hastings boldness shrunk and Wimbledon began to cut effortlessly through the Sussex outfit. The industrious Rose tested Worgan, as did Shroot. Halfway through the second half the Wimbledon faithful all united in applause as loyal servant Anthony Howard came on for his final appearance at Kingsmeadow. His every touch would be greatly applauded.

With just over 15 minutes left, Finn produced a trademark long distance effort, admirably saved by the busy Worgan in the Hastings goal. From the resulting Potter corner, the ball deviated in the wind causing panic in the Hastings area. As Goodliffe pressured the goalkeeper, the linesman flagged that the ball had crossed the line, a decision that incensed Hastings. The goal was eventually credited as a Worgan own goal. Possibly a slightly fortuitous decision, the goal finally killed any remaining resistance from the visitors and was a third set piece goal for the Dons.

As Hastings quarreled with the referee, they may not have noticed Terry Brown throw Steve Ferguson into the action, yet minutes later, after a glorious Hussey cross, Ferguson gave the delivery what it deserved, finishing with aplomb, a rare headed goal for the attacker. Four nil Wimbledon. There was just time for Leberl to make his return from injury for the Dons, and Hastings manager (and ex-Millwall regular) Tony Dolby to roll back the years as he entered the fray as a makeshift striker for his team.


Класиране -> тук

[AFC_Wimbledon]

FA Cup 20th Anniversary Celebration

Last Wednesday, February 27th, was a historic day for Wimbledon fans, as members of WISA committee, club and trust boards, ex-players and ten lucky fans gathered at Merton Civic Centre to watch the unveiling of the honours display. Also present were the Mayor of Merton, Councillor John dehaney, and the council leader, Councillor David Williams, along with a number of other politicians from Merton.

It has been a long road from the day when WISA first sent a letter to Pete Winkelman, demanding back what was rightfully ours: It has been a journey taken via numerous meetings with other supporter bodies to gain approval for the boycott, two annual conferences of the Football Supporters Federation, a number of meetings facilitated by the FSF attended by Simon Wheeler and Ross Maclagan from WISA, and a vote of all Wimbledon supporters (not to mention one of the unmentionables 70 miles up the road).

The council had pulled out all the stops to make the reception area Wimbledon-coloured before the guests arrived -- the whole place was full of yellow and blue balloons, Wimbledon flags from different eras were hung around the walls, and there were many photos celebrating the team’s history. The big coup however was that the FA Cup was on display (and few people in attendance could resist having their photo taken with it!), while the film of the 1988 FA Cup Final was projected onto one of the walls.

The players present included Dave Beasant, Lawrie Sanchez – captain and goalscorer of the FA Cup-winning team -- and Roy Law, captain of the Amateur Cup-Winning team, along with a number of others who played on that historic day in 1963. Sadly the Amateur Cup is very fragile these days, so it could not be displayed. Marcus Gayle, Terry Brown, Stuart Cash and AFC Wimbledon president and all-round legend “Sir” Dicky Guy represented the current team. It was also lovely to see Carl Leaburn, Roger Joseph and Terry Eames in attendance.

The event had attracted a lot of press, and a few TV crews, including NUTS TV.

After the social part of the evening, we moved to the library area, where the main display is housed. Cllr Williams made a short speech thanking WISA and the FSF for making the whole celebration possible. He also said how honoured the council were to display our sporting history, and how much they valued Wimbledon as a community asset. Dicky Guy then gave an emotional and well-thought-out speech covering the history of Wimbledon from 1889 to AFC Wimbledon. (If one of the TV companies captured it, then it would be worth a watch)

Everyone present then crowded round Lawrie Sanchez, Dave Beasant and Roy Law as they formally unveiled the display, by lifting the blue cloth off one of the two display cabinets in the library. Roy then gave a short speech and unveiled a bronze plaque commemorating the occasion; he made a point of saying how proud he was of the display, and of OUR football club.

After the formal unveiling, guests moved back to the reception, spending another couple of hours reminiscing and having photos taken with the various players and, needless to say, the F A Cup. Thankfully we were in time to see Dave save his penalty and Lawrie score the winner again!

The display is now open for everyone to visit, although because of space limitations, Sarah Gould and the rest of the council’s heritage team will be rotating some of the items. In addition, there is a range of books on Wimbledon available to borrow from the library. And there are plans to approach other people who may have items of interest, which could be displayed on a loan basis. Menawhile, the club and other community organisation will also be able to loan items for their own events.

The library is in Merton Civic Centre (formerly Crown House), which is a short walk from Morden Tube and bus stations.

All in all, it was an excellent evening -- it was certainly an emotional evening for me and for others present. It shows that the latest chapter in re-establishing Wimbledon in our home borough has now been completed.

However, there should be more milestones to come, and WISA hopes to be able to announce some more news on another recognition of Wimbledon FC in the next few weeks. So please check this website now and then.

WISA would in particular like to thank our former secretary Ross Maclagan, and our chair Simon Wheeler for all their dedication and skills in negotiating the history and honours accord. Sadly, Simon could not get to the unveiling, because his car broke down on route. Suggestions that a man named Winkelman was seen in the vicinity of the vehicle beforehand are pure speculation!

We’d also like to thank unsung heroes Mick Pugh and Dave McKnight, who helped with the event and the collection of memorabilia. And we would particularly like to thank Sarah Gould and her heritage team for cataloguing and organising the items and creating such beautiful displays, as well as their ongoing commitment to the collection, and to thank the other Merton officers who made the event such a success.

Dave Beasant, Roy Law and Lawrie Sanchez officially unveil the collection


1963 FA Amateur Cup Winners


Marcus Gayle and Carl Leaburn


Dave Beasant and Dicky Guy with FA Cup

[AFC_Wimbledon]

15 Mar 2008 , 17:00
Ryman Premier League

Chelmsford vs Wimbledon



Brown says title could go to final day

WIMBLEDON boss Terry Brown believes the title race could go to the final day of the season if his side beat league leaders Chelmsford on Saturday.

The Dons travel to Melbourne Park eight points adrift of Jeff King’s team but know a win would heap pressure on the long-time leaders, who threw away a four-point advantage at the top of the Ryman Premier Division last season.

“If we win it piles the pressure on them,” Brown told the South London Press.

“I don’t think they’ve had pressure on them all season because all the other teams have kept shooting themselves in the foot.

“I was determined we wouldn’t do that against Hendon on Saturday and we didn’t. Now we have to go to Chelmsford and play without any fear.

“We’re in a position where we can’t lose any more games, and we know that we can’t even afford a draw on Saturday.

“My target is to take the title race to the final day of the season, and if we do that I’m convinced we’ll win it.

“If we beat Chelmsford then I can tell the players that they can realistically go out and win the title.

“But if we come away with a point or less than that then they’ve won it. In a way, knowing that it’s that clear-cut makes it easier for us.

“I’ve got players who are yet to become winners and this game will tell me a lot about them. It will tell me whether my young players have that killer streak needed to be successful.”

Brown is so desperate to ensure the Dons keep the title race alive that he has changed his side’s preparations for their most important game of the season so far.

“We’re going into the last eight games of the season with the strongest squad I’ve had available since I’ve been here,” he said.

“Normally I’d tell the players the team on a Thursday and we’d work on specific things, but I’m not going to let them know who’s playing until Saturday.

“We’re not going to show our hand. Plenty of our players know Chelmsford’s and a few of our guys live in that part of the world. I don’t want their manager getting wind of my team so I’m taking no chances."

Marcus Gayle ready for title showdown

AFC Wimbledon legend Marcus Gayle believes Saturday's promotion showdown at Chelmsford City is as big a game as any during his illustrious career with the Dons.

Terry Brown's men go into the clash eight points behind the Essex side, knowing only a win will keep their Ryman Premier Division title hopes alive.

But Gayle has urged his teammates to have confidence.

He said: "We have to try to win the game as that will put pressure on Chelmsford and they may slip up.

"It is a massive game - it will be tight and I think one goal will be enough to win it.

"It is about time this club made the next jump, but that only happens if you deserve it and Saturday is a great chance for us to prove that."

The Dons kept up the pressure on the league leaders with a fine 2-0 win at play-off chasing Hendon at the weekend.

The victory was their seventh in the past eight games and Gayle was quick to offer his reasons for the dramatic upturn in fortunes.

He added: "There have been a lot of changes and the team is finally gelling together.

"We have a lot of youth in the line up now. That has perked everybody up and also increased pressure for places, which is always a good thing."

The 37-year-old Gayle, who has performed wonders at centre-half this season, insists he has no intention of hanging up his boots just yet.

But he did admit that the rigours were catching up with him.

He added: "It is a big challenge for me to try to keep performing, both for myself and the team.

"I am really enjoying it at the moment, though, and long may that continue."

[AFC_Wimbledon]

05 Apr 2008 , 17:00
Ryman Premier League

Wimbledon 2:1 Billericay
( 0:1 Billy Bricknell 15` | 1:1 Marcus Gayle 63` | 2:1 Robin Shroot 90`)

Last week's home defeat to Horsham was presaged by a downpour that seemed to foretell our downfall but that was nothing compared to the sense of foreboding before today's game. The imminence of a Wimbledon home game seems to generate a collective nervous breakdown in South London. All the trains from London Waterloo were lost to a signal failure; morning sunny was replaced by rain laden clouds and even the temperature took a dramatic dip.

Brown's latest new direction saw the returning Cumbers partner Buchanan up front, Gayle partner Christon at the back and Leberl return to partner Quinn in midfield. None of this could lift the nervy resentful air in the ground in the first half. The only noise that could be heard in the ground was the BilliousRicay fans, who were making full use of the "West Bank" acoustic. (I hope someone was running a sweepstakes on when we'd hear the first mention of MK - it was seven minutes.) 1-0 Samuel Hatton had been moved to right back for the game, where he was presented with the task of dealing with Lee Hodges, a stocky Ronnie Corbett sized playmaker. In the 15th minute the pair were isolated, Hatton backed away and Hodges directed a very skilful pass off the outside of his right boot that missed its intended target but bounced up nicely for Bricknell to hook past Pullen into the corner of the net.

(Captain Leon Hunter delivered the now traditional bigging-oneself-up to the home supporters celebration. Well, it's really not their fault, it's just their coalchar.)

After a jittery afternoon against Horsham Pullen was back to his best this afternoon and either side of the goal he pulled off two magnificent fingertip saves.

As an attacking force though, we were getting nowhere. Stuck out on the right, OurRamone looked completely lost. Elliot Buchanan, cast as a type of target man, was having a day that had the sceptics of the John Smith's Stand thinking nostalgically of Webb. Buchanan has that basketball look, a jumbled selection of extended limbs, like a marionette with the string cut.

The only bright spark was Ferguson, playing out on the left who had any number of exciting runs that seemed to take him past the nearest two or three players as a matter of course.

Pink and Yellow and Brown and Blue, I can sing a rainbow.

Then at half past the sun came out to light up the drizzle and somewhere a rainbow was formed to mark the point where the game stopped being a matter of us being outclassed by the SX boys. The Dons even had a decent chance, the ball bouncing up on the edge of the six-yard area after they'd failed to deal with a cross, only for Cumbers to blast over.

Then the rain came down so heavily that it was difficult to see what was happening and when the ref blew up for half time the reaction from the Corridor of Disgruntlement was enough to make you think Anderson was back as manager.

As it happened, the solution was a simply a plucked Rose away. After wasting his time out on the right Ramone was withdrawn and McDonnell went up front with Cumbers, Fergie went back to the right and Buchanan took up the left flank.

The change was instant. Suddenly the game was one-way traffic as the Dons laid siege to the opponent goals. Just after the hour the Dons seemed sure to take the lead when after a goal mouth scramble the ball landed at Cumbers' foot with four yards of empty space between it and the goal line. He fired it towards goal but from nowhere the right hand of keeper Worster appeared to push it round the post.

1-1 It was a truly miraculous save but it all went for nothing because from the resulting corner Marcus rose at the near post and steered his header into the far corner of the net to produce apoplectic joy in the Tempest End.

The worry was that we do something silly and throw it all away but instead the momentum just kept building and chances kept coming, though the Ricay defence proved infuriatingly good at getting themselves in the way of goalbound efforts, included the moment when the ball spun up off of Worster block and seemed destined to sneak over the line at far post until a defender managed to back heel it off the line.

Shroot Alors.

In the 79th minute Ferguson went off injured and this seemed to signal a dip in energy. At the same time Billie Bricknell was replaced by Rikki Burbridge to the delight of match day man Mickey T. Mistakes began to creep back in and the Ricay, who had been non-existent as an attacking force in the second half managed to get the ball in the back of the net, only to have it ruled out for offside.

The winner came from a swiftly taken free kick after Shroot had been fouled in the midfield. The ball was whipped out to the left, Hussey sent Buchanan clear and his low cross was met by a crowd at the near post, looping up in the direction of the far corner of the net. For a second, time stood still as you expected some misshapen clump of SX anatomy to appear from nowhere and block its path, but no it just dropped down joyously, and there was Shroot receiving the acclaim of the supporters. I'm struggling to remember the last time a goal was so joyously celebrated.

The Green Shroots of recovery?

So is that the end of our recession? Are we good again? Certainly the second half was better than anything we've seen since early February. The win does effectively guarantee us a spot in the play offs and though the games in hand gang of Staines, Hornchurch and Ashford all have a shot at taking second it's going to take a lot.

Would it be graceless to admit that I'm glad it wasn't the any of the loaners that scored. Having two Wimbledon figures get the goals made it so much sweeter.