06.12.2011 South Park 1 – 4 Guildford City

Published on Dec 07, 2011 09:52 am
Guildford City overcame hosts South Park in a high-tempo affair.  Austin Gacheru and Dan Moody both bagged a brace in the first and second halves respectively, with South Park levelling soon after Gacheru’s opening goal. Gacheru opened the scoring when he slotted home after fine work from Jaydon Gibbs on the left wing in the 7^th minute.  South Park equalised five minutes later from a well worked move.  The hosts enjoyed a spell of pressure and created three or four half-chances, but found the City backline in excellent form.  The visitors began to turn the screw with some attacking football – Simon Cooper bringing the ball forward from defence but his cross was blocked just as it was to be turned in. Guildford got their reward five minutes before the break when Gacheru scored his sixth goal in four games, to make it 2-1 to City at half time. A niggly second half got underway in dramatic fashion.  Within a few minutes of the restart, Will Heavey received a silly red card for pushing an opponent away from an aggressive outburst at Gibbs, although the situation was not helped by what appeared to be an attempted head butt by the home player.  City, as in their previous match, carried on exactly where they left off with some excellent passing movement.  Ten minutes later the numbers on each side were unfairly levelled – Dan Moody was brought down in the box and a penalty awarded.  During their protests, South Park’s Bastin was given a second yellow card for dissent, despite the comment clearly coming from another player. Unperturbed, Dan Moody fired home the spot kick in the 65^th minute.  He grabbed his second goal, and City’s fourth, minutes later after latching on to an excellent long pass from Antony Hall and nipping in to chip over goalkeeper Wastell and past the despairing lunge of right back O’Sullivan.  The pace of the match slowed noticeably after this as City saw out a comfortable victory over South Park, perhaps tired after their FA Vase exploits at the weekend.

Guildford City:
Antony Hall, Tony Chaplin, Ben Rayner (Casey McCabe 80), Simon Cooper [capt.], Tom Penson, Corey Holder, Dan Moody, Will Heavey, Austin Gacheru (Billy Dunn 66), Joel Hughes (Ben Camara 55), Jaydon Gibbs. Unused substitutes: Jack Guilford, Michael Hall
Cautioned: No idea!
Sent off: Will Heavey
Referee: G. Collins
Category: 
Match Reports

03.12.2011 Guildford City 4 - 1 Banstead Athletic

Published on Dec 04, 2011 02:07 pm
Guildford City comfortably saw off Banstead Athletic, despite playing the last third of the match a man down.  Austin Gacheru finished smartly after a neat run in the 23rd minute, before Jaydon Gibbs scored his second goal of the season with a fine flying header shortly before the break.  Banstead were not going to lie down however, and Stephan Gnahore pulled one back almost immediately afterwards.  The second half was not as lively, but on the hour mark Ben Camara was sent off for what seemed to be an innocuous challenge for a header.  Ten minutes later, Dan Moody latched on to a superb pass from Antony Hall, nicked the ball over the goalkeeper and headed past him to score.  In the 90th minute, Ben Rayner was fouled by a poor challenge in the box and Moody stepped up to score City's fourth from the penalty spot.
Guildford City:
Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper [capt.], Tom Penson, Corey Holder, Dan Moody, Ben Camara, Joel Greaves (Luke Bradnick 84), Austin Gacheru (Martin Debrah 70), Jaydon Gibbs (Tony Chaplin 82).
Unused substitutes: Joel Hughes, Michael Hall
Cautioned: Corey Holder
Sent off: Ben Camara
Referee: C. Readett

Category: 

Match Reports

30.11.2011 Guildford City 2 - 0 Colliers Wood United

Published on Nov 30, 2011 11:13 pm
Guildford City left it late to secure three points against Colliers Wood United.  The hosts were well on top during the first half - hitting the woodwork twice amongst numerous opportunities - but laboured through a scrappy second half.  The defence was still kept on its toes, with Corey Holder producing a couple of well timed tackled to deny quick Colliers Wood breaks.  With a draw looming, Jack Guilford rose to head home in the 81st minute before Austin Gacheru's excellent individual effort two minutes before full-time sealed victory for the league leaders.
Guildford City:
Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas (Tom Penson 81), Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper [capt], Will Heavey, Corey Holder, Dan Moody, Ben Camara, Jack Guilford (Martin Debrah 84), Joel Hughes (Austin gacheru 61), Jaydon Gibbs.
Unused substitutes: Luke Bradnick, Michael Hall
Cautioned: Dan Moody, Jack Guilford, Austin Gacheru

Category: 
Match Reports

New merchandise range now available

Published on Nov 27, 2011 08:48 pm
A new range of merchandise is now available to purchase online quickly and securely - including home shirts, jackets, sweatshirts and polo shirts. Also on offer is a hat to keep you warm during the winter months, and a Guildford City mug - a perfect present for any City supporter!
Visit the page here! - www.guildfordcityfc.co.uk/content/merchandise
The long-awaited new stock of Guildford City scarves are now ready at £6 each and can be purchased from any club official during a home match.

Category: 

News

26.11.2011 Ash United 0 - 4 Guildford City

Published on Nov 27, 2011 09:26 am
Guildford City produced a fine display to see off local rivals Ash United.  Joel Hughes got City off to a great start when he headed them into the lead, with Jack Guilford doubling it just after the half hour mark.  Ash came into the game more in the second half, but were restricted to a single effort on goal.  Substitute Austin Gacheru put a gloss on the result with two late goals for the visitors. City laid on chance after chance throughout this match, denied only by a busy Ash goalkeeper.  The resilience was broken twice in either half, first when Hughes nodded home in the 13th minute and then when Guilford rose highest to meet Dan Moody's pinpoint corner kick in the 33rd. The second half saw more of the same, although for a while the hosts held possession well without creating any clear cut chances.  With just a two goal lead, a goal for the home side could have changed the perspective of the game considerably but with 7 minutes to play, Gacheru slotted home the third to seal the points for City.  He made it four with his second goal in the 89th - the two goals a fitting celebration to the birth of his baby daughter last week. The top of the table remains tight however, with Windsor and Hanworth Villa both earning 1-0 victories.  Guildford City will be looking to make amends for their only league defeat of the season when they face Colliers Wood United, in the return match of their meeting last month, on Wednesday.
Guildford City
Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper, Tom Penson, Corey Holder, Dan Moody (Luke Bradnick 81), Jack Guilford (Ben Camara 69), Joel Greaves, Joel Hughes, Jaydon Gibbs (Austin Gacheru 59).
Unused substitutes: Martin Debrah, Michael Hall
Cautioned: None
Referee: F Collins
 

Category: 

Match Reports

23.11.2011 Guildford City 2 – 2 Wembley (Premier Challenge Cup 3, Guildford City won 5-4 on penalties AET)Published on Nov 24, 2011 10:27 am
Captain Simon Cooper twice equalised for Guildford City as the progressed to the quarter-final stage of the league cup at the expense of Wembley.  An experimental line-up - a mix of first-team, squad and youth players – acquitted themselves superbly and could easily have put the tie to bed in the first half.  Two late goals, one for either side, sent the tie into extra-time where Wembley stole a lead in the second period.  A goalkeeping blunder allowed City to equalise and they went on to net all five of their penalties, debutant Casey McCabe grabbing the winner after Wembley’s Conor Carroll saw his penalty saved by Michael Hall earlier in the shootout. Guildford City started brightly and barely allowed their opponents a sniff in the first half.  Jaydon Gibbs, Luke Bradnick and Joel Hughes all had good chances to put City ahead, but the scores remained level at the break.  During the second half, City brought on Casey McCabe, Bruce McPhail and Ryan Wallis – the latter two from the club’s youth side – who made their first appearances for the club.  The home side continued to play some smooth passing football but had fewer chances than in the first half.  However, in the 89^th minute Wembley broke quickly and Taiwo Edun was on hand to score.  City had other plans however, and just two minutes later Simon Cooper popped up at the back post to slot home a late equaliser. With the game in extra-time and both sides visibly tiring, the previously frenetic pace dropped somewhat.  Ryan Wallis had a chance to score on his debut but Wembley goalkeeper Ini Amaegbe just managed to reach Wallis’ lob.  The lively Daryl Atkins outpaced and nipped round City goalkeeper Michael Hall in the 108^th minute, seeming to secure progression for Wembley.  Amaegbe had other ideas however, and he fumbled a ‘hopeful’ Cooper cross in to the back of the net with three minutes of extra-time remaining. Tom Penson, Jaydon Gibbs, Will Heavey, Dan Moody all scored in the penalty shootout while Hall saved from Wembley’s Carroll.  Casey McCabe then stepped up to score the winning spot-kick for City, sending them into the quarter-final of the Premier Challenge Cup.
Guildford City
Michael Hall, Will Heavey, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper [capt], Elvis Defreitas, Tom Penson, Dan Moody, Luke Bradnick (Bruce McPhail 74), Joel Hughes (Casey McCabe 64), Jaydon Gibbs, Martin Debrah (Ryan Wallis 81).
Unused substitutes: Toby Johnson, Antony Hall
Cautioned: Will Heavey, Ben Rayner, Tom Penson
Referee: Peter Meek
Category: Match Reports

19.11.2011 Lancing 2 - 1 Guildford City (FA Vase 2)

Published on Nov 19, 2011 09:59 pm

Guildford City watched helplessly as Ben Rayner's injury-time strike bounced back off the post to cap a frustrating and ultimately disappointing afternoon in the FA Vase at Lancing.  The visitors were undone twice by Shaheen Sadough at either end of the match.  Joel Greaves levelled the scores on his first start this season, but despite bossing the game throughout, City were unable to find a winner and suffered defeat when the hosts scored at the death.Guildford found themselves a goal down after just ten minutes, Sadough firing home after the ball pinged around in the box from a corner.  However, with City pressing forward time after time, it seemed only a matter of time until they found an equaliser.  Ben Camara came closest in the first half, finding himself one-on-one with Di Bernando but dragging his shot agonisingly wide. It was a similar story in the second half, with City dominating possession but not creating clear cut chances - most attacks dealt with comfortably by a strong Lancing defence.  With the game heading into its closing stages and Guildford gradually turning the screw with some passing build-up, Greaves finally found space in the penalty area and slotted in to the far corner on 72 minutes.  It seemed as if there would only be one winner from here, as the previously well-organised home defence disintegrated into panic, but the closest City came was when Jack Guilford's rasping drive blazed just over the bar.  They paid the price soon afterwards, a shaky clearance finding its way to Sadough who, despite hesitating as the ball clearly struck his arm, raced through to net the winner. The game was from over and Ben Rayner had a golden chance to level, but saw his ten-yard shot rebound back off the upright and past the lunge of Dan Moody.  In the end, Lancing progressed into the third round of the FA Vase after a hard-fought victory that on another day could easily have gone the other way.
Guildford City:
Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper [capt], Tony Chaplin (Luke Bradnick 87), Tom Penson, Dan Moody, Ben Camara, Joel Greaves, Austin Gacheru (Jack Guilford 68), Jaydon Gibbs.
Unused substitutes: Corey Holder, Anthony Bridgeman, Michael Hall.

Referee: Steve Wade
Attendance: 156
Category: 
Match Reports

16.11.2011 Guildford City 3 - 1 Farnham Town

Published on Nov 17, 2011 10:07 am
The 'A31 derby' was settled without Guildford City really needing to step out of first gear as Farnham Town were seen off on a cold evening at Spectrum.  Goals from Jack Guilford, Dan Moody and Joel Greaves came before Matt Bunyan reduced the deficit late on. It didn't take long for the hosts to go ahead. Guildford’s Guilford broke forward after just two minutes and his deflected shot sailed past a helpless Strudley in the Farnham goal.  Moody doubled the lead on 17 minutes with an excellent finish – his fifth goal in seven games.  The game settled into a midfield slog with neither side making many chances in the remainder of the half. City came out strongly in the second half and looked intent to add to their total.  They did just that in the 56^th minute, newly re-signed forward Greaves slotting home after finding himself space on the left hand side of the Farnham penalty area.  For a while the visitors found themselves up against a Guildford side showing flashes of the passing football they are capable of, with Joel Hughes surging forward strongly on the left hand side.  However, the avalanche of goals never came and Bunyan’s goal in the 80^th minute, following a defensive slip, ensured a nervy ending.  Farnham stepped up the pace and even had the ball in the back of the net soon afterwards – this time the assistant referee’s flag coming to City’s rescue. In the end Guildford City saw out a comfortable victory to once again go top of the league ahead of a trip to Sussex League high-fliers Lancing in the FA Vase.
Guildford City:
Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper, Tony Chaplin, Corey Holder (Tom Penson 63), Dan Moody, Ben Camara, Lance Banton-Brown (Austin Gacheru 40), Jack Guilford (Joel Greaves 55), Joel Hughes.
Unused substitutes: Will Heavey, Martin Debrah
Cautioned: Simon Cooper, Tom Penson
Referee: D. Sotimirin
Attendance: 48

Category: 

Match Reports

Places remaining on coach to Lancing

Published on Nov 15, 2011 09:10 pm
To help take as many supporters as possible to the FA Vase match at Lancing on Saturday 19th November, Guildford City are laying on a coach for players and supporters (and anyone else who fancies it!).  There are still places left so please get in touch if you'd like to come along! Coach tickets cost £10 for adults and £5 for students and senior citizens.  You can book through any club official, or by e-mailing the club at coach@guildfordcityfc.co.uk before the day.Leaving Spectrum at 11.30am - free parking

• Pick-up en route on Caterham bypass at 12:00pm (A22, off Junction 6 of M25) - free parking
• Arrive at Lancing before 1.30pm
• Leave Lancing at approximately 6pm.
• Arrive Caterham bypass at approximately 7pm.
• Arrive back at Spectrum at approximately 7.30pm.

Entrance to the Lancing match will be £6 for adults, £3 for concessions.

Category: 

News

11.11.2011 Guildford City 2 - 0 Badshot Lea

Published on Nov 12, 2011 08:43 am

Cooper & Moody Help Guildford Bounce Back
By Tom Wellman
Guildford City got back to winning ways last night as Badshot Lea were beaten with relative comfort in a 2-0 victory, with the hosts returning to the top of the table in the process. A Simon Cooper wonder strike and a Dan Moody penalty settled the game in front of a bumper crowd of 130 spectators at the Spectrum. Manager, Kevin Rayner, described the win as ‘totally the right response’, following Guildford’s first league defeat of the season last week to Colliers Wood United, which resulted in them dropping two places to third in the league. But Rayner believed that ‘the performance was much improved’ from that in Merton and it showed as Guildford came away with the right result. After an uneventful first half hour, Simon Cooper began proceedings on 34 minutes with a crisp strike into the top corner from 20 yards following a lay off from Will Heavey. Many superlatives could have been used to describe Cooper’s goal; his manager chose ‘quality’. In an opening 45 minutes blighted with constant offside decisions and tame shooting, Cooper provided the crowd with something to remember on one such day in which we do just that. Cooper, Camara and Heavey all tested Badshot custodian, Roy Emmerson, after the interval but every effort ended up in his arms each time. Emmerson did get down well however to prevent Cooper doubling his tally with a smart save to his left as the Guildford goal scorer hit from range again. Badshot rarely threatened in a match dominated by the hosts, but did cause a minor scare when Marcus Cousins fell under a challenge from Chaplin, but the referee waved play on. Realistically, the only route back into the match for Badshot would have been a set piece as they created very little in front of goal, instead frustrating Guildford at the other end.The lead became two in the 74^th minute as Dan Moody sent Emmerson the wrong way from the spot after substitute Joel Greaves fell under the Badshot keeper’s clumsy challenge for a high ball. Game settled, Guildford pushed for the third and came close minutes later when Greaves - making his first apperance fir the club since his return - saw his shot tipped over by Emmerson. Rayner was quick to applaud his team’s dominance post-match. ‘It was vital we put it right tonight and I thought first half we dominated, had some good possession and I was more than happy’.Lance Banton-Brown started his second game of the season last night and his boss was full of praise regarding his performance. ‘Yeah, I thought he was awesome, you know you’ve been in a game if you come up against him!’ And on a final note, with 130 through the turnstiles on a cold, November night, Rayner believes Friday matches can become a success. ‘There’s no other distractions and we get a lot of the other clubs come down and it certainly increases the crowd. The lads seem to enjoy playing in them… except for last week!’ City can now put their feet up and await the visit of Farnham Town on Wednesday, intent on building another unbeaten run following a brief bumpy period.
Guildford City:
Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper [capt], Tony Chaplin, Corey Holder, Dan Moody, Ben Camara, Lance Banton-Brown (Austin Gacheru 63), Jack Guilford (Joel Greaves 63), Will Heavey (Joel Hughes 75).Unused substitutes: Martin Debrah, Michael Hall
Cautioned: Antony Hall
Referee: A. Groves
Attendance: 130

04.11.2011 Colliers Wood United 4 - 2 Guildford City
Published on Nov 05, 2011 10:12 am
Guildford City suffered league defeat for the first time since April as Colliers Wood United capitalised on two defensive errors either side of half time to turn this match around.  Joel Hughes had headed City into a 23rd minute lead during a first half in which the visitors impressed with some excellent movement up front.  They failed to take their chances, hitting the bar at one point, and were made to pay at the end of the first half. In the 45th minute, as Elvis Defreitas passed back to goalkeeper Antony Hall, the ball bobbled/skidded/vaporised past his foot and rolled agonisingly into the corner of the net to level the scores. City were then caught in possession in the first moments of the second half, and Colliers Wood were able to swing a perfect cross into the box and Nathan Turner headed home unmarked.  It got worse from then on as the hosts played neat football, barley giving City a sniff for the next 20 minutes.  In that time they scored twice more, once when a stranded Hall was rounded by Mario Embalo and then Joe Maed netted from the penalty spot.  A double substitution eventually brought Guildford to life.  Jack Guilford and Ben Rayner both went close, with shots coming back off the post, a long range effort tipped over the bar and Guilford firing just over from close range.  City were granted a lifeline in the 81st minute when Ben Camara got a touch to Simon Cooper's shot, but the comeback wasn't to be.

Guildford City:
Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper [capt.], Tony Chaplin, Corey Holder, Dan Moody, Jack Guilford, Austin Gacheru (Lance Banton-Brown 70), Joel Hughes (Ben Camara 70), Jaydon Gibbs (Will Heavey 60).Unused substitutes: Luke Bradnick, Michael Hall Cautions: Elvis Defreitas, Simon Cooper, Corey Holder, Will Heavey, Referee: P. Johnson.
Category: 
Match Reports

11th November Friday Night Football

Published on Nov 03, 2011 01:53 pm
Friday night football comes to Guildford on the 11th of November and the club is hoping to break its record attendance.League pace setters Guildford City host Badshot Lea in the first ever Friday night fixture at Spectrum.  It's a fixture bound to mean goals; 20 goals have been shared by the sides in six recent meetings, and City haven't had a goalless draw since April 2010! Friday 11th November - 7:45pm Guildford City vs Badshot Lea
Spectrum football ground, Parkway, Guildford, GU1 1UP (Map)  Adult admission: £6 *Half price adult entry for season ticket holders from any football club* Other offers here. Senior citizen (65+) / Student: £3
Under-16s: Free with any adult, £1 without Programmes: £1.50 (Reserve one by e-mailing  prog@guildfordcityfc.co.uk) The ground (to the side of Spectrum leisure centre, Parkway, GU1 1UP) is easily accessible -  park for free in the large car park adjacent to the ground or catch the #100 shuttle bus to Spectrum from the town centre. Other buses stop at Elgin Gardens, just across Stoke Park from Spectrum.You can keep up to date with Guildford City on Twitter and Facebook - please check these for information in the event of bad weather on the day.

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Coach to Lancing - Saturday 19th November

Published on Nov 01, 2011 10:01 pm
To help take as many supporters as possible to the FA Vase match at Lancing on Saturday 19th November, Guildford City will be laying on a coach for players and supporters (and anyone else who fancies it!). Coach tickets cost £10 for adults and £5 for students and senior citizens.  You can book through any club official, or by e-mailing the club at coach@guildfordcityfc.co.uk before the day. Leaving Spectrum at 11.30am - free parking
Pick-up en route on Caterham bypass at 12:00pm (A22, off Junction 6 of M25) - free parking
Arrive at Lancing before 1.30pm
Leave Lancing at approximately 6pm.
Arrive Caterham bypass at approximately 7pm.
Arrive back at Spectrum at approximately 7.30pm.
Entrance to the Lancing match will be £6 for adults, £3 for concessions.

Category: 

News

Weekend work party at Spectrum – Sunday 6th November 10am
Published on Nov 01, 2011 10:17 am
We would be very grateful for any volunteers to help at Spectrum this Sunday (6th November). We are hoping to finish the ground refurbishment before our next home match against Badshot Lea next Friday. The jobs are fairly simple, but we do require numbers to get the job done! Club members will be at the ground from 10am onward. If you can wield a hammer, wheel a barrow or hold up a fence post we would love to see you! If you would like more information please contact ground@guildfordcityfc.co.uk
Category: 
News

29.10.2011 Guildford City 2 - 2 Windsor

Published on Oct 29, 2011 07:21 pm
Dan Moody's 83rd minute penalty salvaged a point for Guildford City after the hosts came from two goals behind to draw with league title rivals Windsor.  In a competitive match which lacked spark, City shot themselves in the foot with two defensive lapses that allowed Ben Porter (5mins) and Yashwa Romeo (30) to put the visitors into a two goal lead.  Windsor seemed to take their foot off the pedal after this and Ben Camara pulled a goal back in the 37th minute - the ball going in off his back after Jack Guilford's header in a crowded penalty area.  In the second half the league leaders applied lots of pressure to a Windsor side defending deeply and resolutely.  The introduction of substitute Joel Hughes caused problems in the visitors defence however, and after numerous chances, City were gifted their way back when Lance Banton-Brown was fouled in the box.  Dan Moody stepped up to calmly slot home the spot kick past Windsor goalkeeper Rob Bullivant - sporting a very fetching luminous orange shirt. Moody's goal grabbed a deserved share of the spoils for Guildford who, after a strong attacking second half display, may feel disappointed not to have taken all three points.
Guildford City:
Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper [capt], Tony Chaplin, Corey Holder, Dan Mooddy, Jack Guilford (Luke Bradnick 86), Austin Gacheru, Ben Camara (Lance Banton-Brown 65), Martin Debrah (Joel Hughes 54). Unused substitutes: Tom Penson, Michael Hall Cautioned: Ben Rayner, Dan Moody, Jack Guilford
Referee: P. Crichlow
Att. 107 

Category: 
Match Reports

Top of the table clash this weekend at Spectrum

Published on Oct 25, 2011 02:09 pm
Guildford City face second placed Windsor this Saturday in a Combined Counties League top of the table clash.  Newly formed Windsor have recovered after a shaky start to the season and will make their first trip to Spectrum off the back of a 2-0 victory over promotion candidates Camberley Town.  The hosts will be looking to extend their lead at the top of the Combined Counties Premier Division table after playing out an entertaining Surrey Senior Cup match with Chertsey Town last week. Kick-off is at 3pm on Saturday 29th October - we hope to see you there! The ground (to the side of Spectrum leisure centre, Parkway, GU1 1UP) is easily accessible -  park for free in the large car park adjacent to the ground or catch the #100 shuttle bus to Spectrum from the town centre. Other buses stop at Elgin Gardens, just across Stoke Park from Spectrum.Further details can be found here for ground information and admission prices.You can keep up to date with Guildford City on Twitter and Facebook too!

Category: 

News

FA Vase draw - away at Lancing

Published on Oct 24, 2011 12:21 pm
Guildford City have been drawn away to Lancing in the second round of the FA Vase.  Lancing currently sit in the upper reaches of Sussex County Division One, which is the same level in the football pyramid as our own league.  It will be the first time the two sides have met. www.lancingfc.org.uk

The tie will be played on Saturday 19th November at Culver Road, Lancing - interestingly, also the home of
Sussex County FA.
Category: 
News

19.10.2011 Guildford City 4 - 5 Chertsey Town (Surrey Senior Cup 1)

Published on Oct 20, 2011 07:30 am
Chertsey Edge 9-Goal Thriller with Late Strike
by Tom Wellman
An 89^th minute Eddie Smith goal knocked Guildford City out of the Surrey Senior Cup as Chertsey Town celebrated victory in an epic encounter at the Spectrum, winning 5-4 in the end. City only have themselves to blame for conceding five at home and missing two penalties during the furious affair. Smith completed his hat-trick late on with a lovely finish past Antony Hall, much to the distress of the home team who had more than matched their higher division opponents. To be fair neither defence produced anything of the sort of standard that would have Ray Wilkins raving, but it certainly proved to be an entertaining contest and one that could have tilted either way. Guildford kicked off the scoring in the 7^th minute; Jack Guilford capitalising on a mistake by the Chertsey backline to drill home. Soon after though it was all square as Phill Page slotted in following impressive build up play from the visitors, and they soon took the lead for the first time when Tom O’Regan rifled in a left footed effort from the edge of the area after racing onto a long ball from defence. In between those goals however, Guildford won themselves a penalty after a trip on Moody but Austin Gacheru could only send the spot kick low and wide. City did go into half time level though thanks to Ben Rayner’s strike as a free kick into the Chertsey box caused havoc, only to fall to the thankful Rayner. Guildford then took the lead for the second and final time in the match as Simon Cooper’s spectacular free-kick found the top corner from 20 yards on 50 minutes. Within seconds however Chertsey had equalised; Smith grabbing the first of his three, heading in a precise cross. Minutes later they went 4-3 up thanks to Smith again, finishing a low cross from namesake Miles clinically just before the hour mark. Guildford rang the changes to try to remain in the game as Page missed a 1-on-1 opportunity prior to Debrah and Banton-Brown’s inclusions. Successfully, they paid off as a long ball into the box found the head of Dan Moody who just about reached the ball before the Chertsey ‘keeper and nodded into the empty net. At 4-4 the game was there to be won and Guildford were given a great opportunity to seal the win as the referee awarded another penalty to the hosts. Cooper took this one but ‘keeper Lee Pearce redeemed himself by pulling off a terrific save down to his right. Cruelly, Smith then snatched the win from under City’s noses as the tie dwindled towards extra time with a well taken finish which proved to be the winner. 5-4 it ended in a topsy-turvy encounter which Guildford City will feel they should have won had they taken their chances. Guildford City
Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper [capt], Tony Chaplin, Corey Holder, Dan Moody, Will Heavey (Ben Camara 89), Jack Guilford (Lance Banton-Brown 70), Austin Gacheru, Luke Bradnick (Martin Debrah 62). Unused substitutes: Joel Hughes, Michael Hall
Cautioned: Jack Guilford

Referee: V. Penfold
Attendance: 75

Category: 

Match Reports

Surrey Senior Cup action this evening

Published on Oct 19, 2011 07:41 am

Guildford City host Chertsey Town this evening in the first round of the Surrey Senior Cup.  Chertsey Town have been regular visitors to the Spectrum in previous years and the match is sure to be competitive.  Both teams will be looking to secure a second round tie at home to Walton Casuals.Kick-off is at 7:45pm - we hope to see you there! The ground (to the side of Spectrum leisure centre, Parkway, GU1 1UP) is easily accessible -  park for free in the large car park adjacent to the ground or catch the #100 shuttle bus to Spectrum from the town centre. Other buses stop at Elgin Gardens, just across Stoke Park from Spectrum. Further details can be found here for ground information and admission prices. You can keep up to date with Guildford City on Twitter and Facebook too!

Category: 

News

Guildford City to face Wembley in Premier Cup third round
Published on Oct 16, 2011 01:04 pm

Guildford City will host Wembley in the third round of the Combined Counties League Premier Challenge Cup on Wednesday 23rd November.  The winners will earn a place in the quarter-finals.  The two sides have faced each other already this season, when they played out an entertaining 3-3 draw with Tony Chaplin netting a last minute equaliser for City.

Category: 

News

15.10.2011 Raynes Park Vale 0 - 1 Guildford City
Published on Oct 15, 2011 08:45 pm

Guildford City endured a nervy period of second half pressure against Raynes Park Vale, but emerged victorious thanks to a first half goal from in-form Austin Gacheru.  The visitors created a number of good chances early on, but had to wait until the 32nd minute for the breakthrough.  Ben Rayner's pass was controlled smartly by Gacheru before he neatly slotted home at the far post.  Dan Moody's shot was then flicked on to the post by Dean Cupit in the Raynes Park goal.  In the second half City were less assured and the hosts should have levelled the scores through a series of good chances.  In the end, City held on to take the three points and even created two chances on the break - firstly Jack Guilford's opportunistic strike being chalked off for offside before Dan Moody was denied a penalty after a rash defensive challenge late on.

Guildford City
Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper [capt.], Tom Penson, Corey Holder, Dan Moody, Tony Chaplin, Ben Camara (Martin Debrah 62), Austin Gacheru (Anthony Bridgeman 90), Joel Hughes (Jack Guilford 69)
Unused substitutes: Luke Bradnick, Michael Hall

Cautioned: None

Referee: R. Wells

Category: 

Match Reports

08.10.2011 Guildford City 4 - 0 Chessington & Hook United
Published on Oct 09, 2011 07:18 am
Two late goals from Luke Bradnick put the gloss on an efficient Guildford City performance against Chessington & Hook United.  Although the hosts laboured for the first twenty minutes, during which Chessington had a number of good chances to go ahead, they started to stamp their authority on the match after this.  Dan Moody opened the scoring with an excellent finish on 32 minutes.  Ben Camara doubled the advantage after the hour mark and the visitors appeared to lose their resolve.  Luke Bradnick netted two dogged goals in quick succession at the end of the game to give City a slightly flattering four goal advantage. Match highlights available here.
Guildford City:
Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper [capt], Tom Penson, Corey Holder, Dan Moody (Luke Bradnick 81), Anthony Bridgeman, Ben Camara (Lance Banton-Brown 81), Austin Gacheru, Joel Hughes (Martin Debrah 69).
Unused substitutes: Tony Chaplin, Michael Hall
Cautioned: Ben Rayner, Martin Debrah
Referee: R. Smith

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Match Reports

Partner club update - October
Published on Oct 07, 2011 03:03 pm
As the end of the 2011 Faroese football season approaches, Havnar Bóltfelag will look back on it as a poor one.  Reigning league champions, they currently find themselves in the unfamiliar territory of the bottom half of the table.  Rivals B36 are contesting the league title with EB/Streymur and HB will need to regroup for next season to get back to the top of the Vodafonedeildin.  Indeed HB aren't safe from an unlikely relegation, although a recent 4-1 victory over 07 Vestur helped to pull them away from the bottom two.  That victory signalled the end to a miserable run of form (including a 7-1 defeat to ÍF Fuglafjørður) and with just three games left, their destiny is in their hands. Freiburger have also struggled so far this season after an excellent league campaign last term.  Victories over lowly SV Herten and FC Steinen-Höllstein have been the high points of an otherwise poor opening two months.  They currently sit third from bottom and have some catching up to do if they are to match last season's achievements.  Manager Ralf Eckert, speaking after a devastating 5-1 loss to league leaders SC Wyhl, was shocked by the result and blamed individual defensive errors for allowing Wyhl to build an unassailable lead.

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Partner Clubs
Fixture rearrangements

Published on Oct 06, 2011 09:34 pm
There have been a number of fixture rearrangements in recent weeks, so here is a quick rundown: Guildford City vs Chertsey Town, publicised in some places at Wednesday 26th October, has been moved to Wednesday 19th October. Guildford City vs Farnham Town, originally scheduled for Saturday 22nd October, has been moved to Wednesday 16th November. Colliers Wood United vs Guildford City, originally scheduled for Saturday 5th November, has been moved to Friday 4th November.Guildford City vs Badshot Lea, originally scheduled for Saturday 12th November, has been moved to Friday 11th November. Guildford City vs Colliers Wood United, originally scheduled for Saturday 3rd March, has been moved to Wednesday 30th November.
An up-to-date list is always available here.

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08.10.2011 Guildford City 4 - 0 Chessington & Hook United
Published on Oct 09, 2011 07:18 am
Two late goals from Luke Bradnick put the gloss on an efficient Guildford City performance against Chessington & Hook United.  Although the hosts laboured for the first twenty minutes, during which Chessington had a number of good chances to go ahead, they started to stamp their authority on the match after this.  Dan Moody opened the scoring with an excellent finish on 32 minutes.  Ben Camara doubled the advantage after the hour mark and the visitors appeared to lose their resolve.  Luke Bradnick netted two dogged goals in quick succession at the end of the game to give City a slightly flattering four goal advantage.Match highlights available here.
Guildford City:
Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper [capt], Tom Penson, Corey Holder, Dan Moody (Luke Bradnick 81), Anthony Bridgeman, Ben Camara (Lance Banton-Brown 81), Austin Gacheru, Joel Hughes (Martin Debrah 69).
Unused substitutes: Tony Chaplin, Michael Hall
Cautioned: Ben Rayner, Martin Debrah
Referee: R. Smith
Category: 
Match Reports

Fixture rearrangements
Published on Oct 06, 2011 09:34 pm
There have been a number of fixture rearrangements in recent weeks, so here is a quick rundown: Guildford City s Chertsey Town, publicised in some places at Wednesday 26th October, has been moved to Wednesday 19th October. Guildford City vs Farnham Town, originally scheduled for Saturday 22nd October, has been moved to Wednesday 16th November. Colliers Wood United vs Guildford City, originally scheduled for Saturday 5th November, has been moved to Friday 4th November. Guildford City vs Badshot Lea, originally scheduled for Saturday 12th November, has been moved to Friday 11th November. Guildford City vs Colliers Wood United, originally scheduled for Saturday 3rd March, has been moved to Wednesday 30th November. An up-to-date list is always available here.

No football this weekend? Come and watch Guildford City!
Published on Oct 04, 2011 12:02 pm
With Premiership and Championship clubs out of action on Saturday due to international matches this weekend, it’s the perfect time to visit your local non-league side. Combined Counties League leaders Guildford City host Chessington & Hook United at the Spectrum football ground at 3pm and, as always, season ticket holders of any football club are eligible for half price adult admission. So if your club isn’t playing this weekend, why not come along and enjoy non-league football on your doorstep for the bargain price of just £3? And as it's October and universities and colleges start again, the club are giving free entry to anyone with a valid student card! We’re proud to have a good following of supporters from the nearby University of Surrey and, with a busy month ahead, we hope to see even more students watching football at their local side. The ground (to the side of Spectrum leisure centre, Parkway, GU1 1UP) is easily accessible -  park for free in the large car park adjacent to the ground or catch the #100 shuttle bus to Spectrum from the town centre. Other buses stop at Elgin Gardens, just across Stoke Park from Spectrum. Further details can be found here for ground information and admission prices. You can keep up to date with Guildford City on Twitter and Facebook too!

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News

01.10.2011 Croydon 1 - 1 Guildford City

Published on Oct 02, 2011 11:09 am
Austin Gacheru scored a goal on his brithday as Guildford City were held to a draw at Croydon.  The hosts went ahead through George Gledhill on 34 minutes before Gacheru netted his sixth goal in six appearances shortly before the break - thanks in part to a goalkeeping error.  The visitors applied some pressure at the end of the second half but were unable to find a breakthrough.  The match ended in controversy as City's Luke Bradnick saw the referee blow for full-time as his shot flew into the net. Guildford City: Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper [capt], Corey Holder, Tom Penson, Ben Camara, Dan Moody (Anthony Bridgeman 70), Jack Guilford (Luke Bradnick 70), Austin Gacheru, Lance Banton-Brown (Joel Hughes 50).
Unused substitutes: Michael Hall, Tony Chaplin Cautioned: None
Referee: J. Ryan
Category: 

Match Reports

Students go free in October

Published on Sep 30, 2011 08:53 am
Guildford City is offering free entry to students to all of their five home fixtures in October.  This is part of our annual welcome to new (and returning!) students at the University of Surrey – with Sweeney representatives promoting the club at the Freshers’ Fayre.  It’s not just Surrey students who get the offer either, anyone with a valid student card will receive free admission – and once October is over it’s only £3 to get in! We’re proud to have a good following of supporters from the university and, with a busy month ahead, we hope to see even more students enjoying non-league football at their local side.  The ground (near Spectrum leisure centre, Parkway, GU1 1UP) is a 30-45 minute walk from the University of Surrey campus, or spectators can catch the #100 shuttle bus to Spectrum from the town centre.  Alternatively, buses #36 (to) and #37 (from) run between campus and Elgin Gardens, just across Stoke Park from Spectrum. October home fixtures: Wednesday 5^th October 7:45pm – Guildford City vs Hanworth Villa (League cup) Saturday 8th October 3pm - Guildford City vs Chessington & Hook United Wednesday 19th October 7:45pm - Guildford City vs Chertsey Town (Surrey Senior Cup)
Saturday 22nd October 3pm - Guildford City vs T.B.C. Saturday 29th October 3pm - Guildford City vs Windsor
Further details can be found on this website for ground information and admission prices.
You can keep up to date with Guildford City on Twitter and Facebook too!

24.09.2011 Guildford City 1 - 1 Camberley Town
Published on Sep 24, 2011 07:17 pm
This top of the table clash finished level after Guildford City's Austin Gacheru cancelled out Adam Cornell's strike within two minutes of the visitors going ahead. A tight first half was played out in front of a good crowd at Spectrum, although neither side found their usual rhythm.  A game where most of the play was in midfield yielded few chances, with both defences performing well.  Gacheru shot wide after turning inside his marker, and at the other end Camberley occasionally broke the Guildford offside trap but to no avail. The game sprung to life just two minutes after the break however, when Cornell found space to plant a shot past Hall after a neat move.  Guildford immediately went searching for an equaliser and Gacheru provided it with a superb curling effort from the edge of the penalty area in the 49th minute. Neither goalkeeper was particularly tested throughout the match, although home stopper Antony Hall and young Stuart Norman at the other end made good stops in the second half.  Ben Rayner came close with a long range effort, and City felt they were denied a late penalty after Camberley's Blount pulled Dan Moody's shirt in the box.  Overall City just about shaded the balance of play but a draw was a fair result for two of the league promotion

contenders.
Guildford City:
Antony Hall, Elvis Defreitas, Ben Rayner, Simon Cooper [capt], Jamie Thoroughgood, Corey Holder, Dan Moody, Ben Camara, Jack Guilford (Martin Debrah 60), Austin Gacheru (Joel Hughes 80), Tony Chaplin (Lance Banton-Brown 76).Unused substitutes: Michael Hall, Luke Bradnick Cautioned: Ben Rayner
Referee: G. Mays

History of Guildford City FC

Although the club was reformed in 1996, the history of senior football in Guildford goes back much further. The old Guildford City graced the professional Southern League, winning both league championship and league cup before the club's demise in 1974. City also had one of the best grounds in the Southern League..

Eddie Russell, the treasurer of the current Guildford City FC has produced a more concise history of the original City for the website,  while below is a short history from 1996 until the present.

Several supporters have also expressed an interest in knowing more about the old club's ground, so a new page has been created with some photo's of the old ground and what it looks like today. Click here to view the Joseph's Road info page. The supporters club and bar is still there however and is going strong as ever.

Guildford City 1996 to present

The re-emergence of Guildford City FC. has been achieved in a relatively short space of time as the club was only founded in 1996. At that time the club was known as AFC Guildford, and it was formed with the sole purpose of bringing senior football back to the town of Guildford.

At that time Burpham FC were playing in the Surrey Premier League when the Mayor of Guildford, in consultation with the Burpham FC. committee, enquired as to whether the club would be prepared to change its name and move to the Spectrum Leisure Centre in Guildford. The Mayor had been an avid fan of Guildford City FC. which at one time played in the Southern League, but folded in 1974. The only senior club appearing near the town after that being Guildford and Worplesdon, who played in the Combined Counties League in the early eighties, but who also folded after a few years due to ground grading problems.  The Spectrum provided a venue which had the potential for development into senior football and already had floodlighting, (used for the Athletics arena).

Therefore in consultation and agreement with Burpham FC, AFC Guildford was formed and moved to playing football at the Spectrum Leisure Centre, Guildford. The association with Burpham FC. continued and the two clubs ran under the same banner for several seasons, with AFC Guildford playing in the Surrey Premier League, which eventually became the Surrey Senior League, and then Division One of the Combined Counties League. AFC Guildford were crowned champions of Division One at the end of the 2003/4 season and gained their first ever major honour. 

On that basis promotion was obtained into the Combined Counties Premier Division, with the 1^st Team negotiating a ground-share with Cranleigh FC whilst the Spectrum Arena was being upgraded to a standard acceptable for Combined Counties Premier Division football. That work was eventually completed in early November 2004 which allowed for AFC Guildford to return to their home ground near to the town centre.

In 2005 the club changed its name to Guildford United, which does have some local historical significance, as the senior Guildford team during the 1920’s also played under that name. However the club has now acquired the name of Guildford City FC and in doing so has returned the once famous name back into senior football, after an absence of over 30 years.

Further improvement work at Spectrum has now been undertaken which provides for a Covered Stand with 135 seats, a new officials changing room and toilets for public use. This will allow the club to sustain its present status and when the time is right, progress to the next level.

The first club in the town were formed in 1877 as Guildford FC., known to everyone as the “Pinks”. They were an amateur side and played their home matches at the Woodbridge Road Sports Ground. They had a fund raising match in October 1920 against Brentford and a crowd of almost 3,000 watched the game. This led to a number of people meeting with a view to forming a new professional club and by the end of 1920 Guildford United was formed. In May 1921 they were accepted into the Southern League, then the equivalent of the Conference League today. At the same time land had been purchased in Joseph’s Road and “United” were able to kick-off the 1921-22 season with a home game against Reading Reserves. Playing in green and white the hosts won 2-0 with over 5,000 paying for admission. That early success did not last long however and the team finished 17th out of 19 at the end of that season.

1927 saw the coming of Guildford as a Diocese and with it the building of a Cathedral. It was believed that Guildford would become a city so the Club changed its name and the “City” was born. At this time they also changed the colours to red and white stripes. Although they had little success in the League in these years the FA Cup bought a taste of glory in 1928-29 when, having battled through the qualifying rounds, they were drawn at home to Queen’s Park Rangers from the Third Division in the First Round Proper and beat them 4-2 in front of a crowd of nearly 8,000. In the next round they were at home again to Bournemouth, also from the Third Division but this time a crowd in excess of 8,500 saw the visitors romp home 5-1.

Despite these excellent gates and the highest League finish to date the Club was facing a financial crisis at the end of the season – this was to be a recurrent theme throughout the Club’s history. However, they managed to soldier on albeit with little success. Then at the start of the 1936/37 season the Club made the massive decision to turn full-time professional, appointing Haydn Green as manager. That season they finished 4th but next season things got even better. 1937/38 saw victory over League side Reading in the FA Cup before a defeat at Doncaster Rovers but in the League they were even more successful winning 22 and drawing 5 of their 34 games to finish as Champions for the first time. They nearly repeated the feat the following year. In an expanded League they played 44 games, won 30 and drew 6, finishing runners-up to Colchester United by 1 point, scoring 126 goals and conceding 52 in the process. Indeed the League game at home to Colchester on Easter Monday saw City win 3-1 in front of the highest crowd ever for a League game at Joseph’s Road 9,443. Earlier that season City had attracted an even bigger crowd to Joseph’s Road for an FA Cup 1st Round Replay against local rivals Aldershot. 9,932 saw City lose a nail-biting game 4-3.

This successful period was brought to a premature conclusion by the out break of the War and when competitive football started again in 1945/46 City reverted to part-time professional status but did not enter the Southern League that season due to the poor state of the ground which had been under Army control during the War. On re-entering the Southern League the following season they again finished runners-up, this time to Gillingham but there followed 3 seasons of mediocrity. 1950/51 was a more successful season with the team finishing 3rd in the League and reaching the Final of the Southern League Cup for the first time. The opponents were Merthyr Tydfil and in a two-leg match City won the first leg at Joseph’s Road 4-3 but lost 3-1 away from home. The attendance for the home leg was 6,714 and gate receipts were £451.00. The following season they again finished runners up in the Southern League Cup to Hereford United and finished 4th in the League. This season also saw the longest trip ever undertaken by the City when they were drawn away to Gateshead in the 2nd Round of the FA Cup. An estimated 5,000 supporters made the overnight trip to the North East of England in December (no motorways in those days – and no heaters on coaches either) and were part of a 15,000 crowd that saw City dominate the game but lose 2-0. By the end of that season the club were over £10,000 in debt and City sold Jimmy Langley to Leeds for £2,000. Langley went from Leeds to Brighton, then to Fulham where he gained 3 England Caps before finishing his League career at Queen’s Park Rangers in 1967.

The 1952/53 season was a poor one and ex Scottish international Archie Macaulay was brought in as player-manager for the following season and although initial progress was slow he started building a side that would win the title in 1955-56. However, he left before the end of the season leaving Bill Thompson to take over and lead the side to the Championship. In 1957/58 the club avoided relegation by one place and in 1958/59 the League expanded from 22 to 35 clubs and the League was regionalised. City were in the South Eastern zone and could only finish 15th out of 17. For 1959/60 the League revised again, this time to a Premier and First Division. City’s miserable time the year before meant they started in the lower Division. Now the Club came under the management of Albert Tennant who had been a coach at Chelsea. His first task was to reorganise the Club and get a side together to win promotion straight into the Premier League. Four went up, City finished 5th but Exeter City Reserves who finished 4th decided to withdraw, leaving City to be promoted. 1961/62 saw Tennant start to build a side and although they could only finish that campaign in 15th place the next four seasons saw finishes of 3rd, 4th, 4th and 2nd: on the last occasion only 2 points behind champions Weymouth.. In the 1962/63 season they also lifted the Southern League Cup for the first time, beating Nuneaton Borough 2-1 on aggregate over two legs.

Despite this success by the summer of 1965 it seemed that finance was again a major problem at the Club. The reserve side was scrapped and 1965/66 saw the manager facing a strict budget which left him short of players, resulting in a disappointing 16th place finish, although they did manage to reach the final of the Southern League Cup again where they were beaten by Yeovil Town 2-1 on aggregate. 1966/67 saw the Club recover somewhat to finish 6th in the League and to improve on the previous year by winning the Southern League Cup with a 2-1 aggregate success over Barnet. 1967/68 saw a 5th place finish in the League and a notable FA Cup run. Drawn away to Brentford the City were leading 2-1 when the match was abandoned during the second half because of snow. A second trip to Griffin Park ended with a 2-2 draw and meant a replay at Joseph’s Road in front of 7500 fans who roared City to a famous 2-1 victory. They were drawn at home to 4th Division Newport County in the 2nd Round but were beaten 1-0 in front of 8800 fans. Goalkeeper Peter Vasper was sold to Norwich City for £5000 and it was thought that this money and the money from the Cup games might ease the Club’s financial problems but they were worse than many had realised. The following season saw the end of Albert Tennant’s nine year reign and the Club finished the season bottom of the League and were relegated.

1969/70 saw Bill Coldwell take over as manager and in his second season the Club were crowned First Division Champions and promoted. This was also the year that Joseph’s Road was sold and it really signalled the beginning of the end. The following year they reached the 2nd Round of the FA Cup, visiting Third Division Shrewsbury, for which a special train was laid on for the fans, where they narrowly lost 2-1. However League results were poor and relegation looked certain until the manager resigned and player Terry More took over. An exciting back half of the season saw the Club win 12 and draw 2 out of 16 games to finish a respectable 12th. What is more the football was so good attendances topped the 3000 mark on 3 occasions – something that hadn’t happened for years.

The inevitable was only being delayed and although in 1972/73 the Club again reached the first round of the FA Cup where a visit to Watford ended with a 4-2 defeat, they could only finish 18th in the League. At this time the Club needed gates of 4000 to break even and were not even getting a quarter of that at most games. 1973/74 saw a new board of directors in place with Bill Bellerby elected President and Club stalwart Darby Watts as player manager. A bright start to the season soon gave way to increasing despair amongst the supporters and the mood was transferred to the players as it became apparent that the new board did not intend to fight to keep the club in Guildford, and despite the best efforts of Mr Bellerby and the long standing Chairman of the Supporters’ Club John Daborn, it was soon announced that the Club was to merge with Dorking and play at Meadowbank. The final game at Joseph’s Road was played on 12th February 1974 when the City beat Folkestone 2-0 in front of 625 fans. After 53 years senior football at Joseph’s Road had come to an end.

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