Club News

26.01.12 - Teversal Match Preview.

AFC Emley take on Teversal at the Welfare Ground on Saturday (3.00pm) looking for a win to propel them above their mid table rivals. 

Emley currently sit in 12th place with the visitors 1 place and 3 points ahead of them but Emley do have a superior goal difference. When the two sides met back in August Emley were comfortable 2-0 winners but since then Teversal have enjoyed a good run of form which has propelled them up the table.

Darren Hepworth, the Emley manager names an unchanged squad from Saturday’s victory over 2-1 Appleby Frodingham with captain Judd Colley, Paul Banton and leading striker David Heagney still absent. 

Hepworth commented: “I was happy to take all 3 points from Saturday’s game.  The windy conditions made it difficult to play any kind of passing football in the first half and I felt that we were guilty of trying to force things too much.  In the second half we were much better – Josh Ingham was outstanding in midfield and will remain as captain for Saturday’s game.” 

Turning his attention to the Teversal game he added:  “Saturday is real 6 pointer for us and a game we need to win.  I don’t want to settle for a mid table finish and a win would be a real boost for us.”

Emley’s second team travel to Leeds based Westbrook YMCA (2.00pm) looking to extend their unbeaten run to 7 games. 

19.01.12 - Free Entry To Game This Saturday.

AFC Emley are throwing their doors open for Saturday’s game with Appleby Froddingham (3.00pm) with free entry to all spectators.

The gesture is a response to the teams poor run of form in recent months and a disappointing performance against Worksop Parramore two weeks ago.

Club Chairman John Whitehead commented:

“The game was against Worksop Parramore and our seeming capitulation in the second half was abysmal and unacceptable. The players themselves were not happy and acknowledge that their display on the day was woeful. As a sign of their commitment to this football club and its supporters the players have volunteered to sponsor the  next home game. This effectively means that all home and away spectators will be admitted to the Welfare Ground free of charge.”                               

“As a club we would also like to encourage new supporters up to our games to enjoy the excellent facilities here and build our fanbase.”

Scunthorpe based Appleby are currently rooted to the bottom of the NCEL First Division and were defeated 4-0 by Emley back in August.  Despite this Emley boss Darren Hepworth is taking nothing for granted.

“We will not underestimate Appleby Froddingham - they have recently signed a few players and on their day any team is capable of taking points - they proved that last season. We need to be professional and determined in our approach.”

“I'm still positive that we have the talent and focus to push on and get the most out of the rest of this season. Lads have responded that way as well - I see that in training and we have a fantastic spirit in the dressing room. We need to take it onto the pitch and show our supporters - consistently in every game.”

On the injury front Hepworth has received better news on leading goalscorer David Heagney who is now only believed to be about 2-3 weeks away from fitness.  But captain Judd Colley is set to miss the next 3 weeks whilst Darren Barrick and Paul Banton are both doubts.  Sean Hazelden is available following the birth of his new daughter on Wednesday and Josh Ingham is once again available for selection after serving a 3 match suspension.

16.01.12 - Brighouse Match Preview.

Emley entertain local rivals Brighouse in the 3rd round of the NCEL League cup on Tuesday evening (7.45pm).  The clash pits the first division side against their premier division neighbours for the first time since they gained promotion 2 years ago.

The game will have a familiar feel to it as Brighouse are managed by the former Emley player Paul Quinn. They also have former Emley men Nick Jaggar, Ryan Brook and Anthony Haigh amongst their numbers whilst the Emley squad will feature former Brighouse midfield Chris Wdowczyk. 

The visitors come into the game off the back of a 2-2 draw with promotion contenders Tadcaster where they surrendered a 2 goal lead. Emley manager Darren Hepworth meanwhile took advantage of a blank weekend to fit in an extra training session before travelling up to Brighouse to scout on his opponents.

Emley go into the clash without the services of leading striker David Heagney who is likely to be out for at least 2 months with a knee ligament injury.

Hepworth does welcome back two squad members into the squad in the shape of midfielder Josh Ingham and goalkeeper Mick Clarke.

Clarke is in contention for the first time since October following his controversial sending off at Eccleshill and subsequent ban.

Ingham had an influential role in Emley reserves 2-0 victory over Storthes Hall on Friday night, setting up Curtis Roberts for the opening goal.  Brett Mcdonagh sealed the victory from the penalty spot. 

Supporters travelling to the game are advised to check the clubs twitter feed and website for information should conditions remain frosty on Tuesday evening.

12.01.12 - Reserves Game This Friday.

AFC Emley’s first team have blank Saturday this weekend giving them extra time to prepare for their big league cup clash with Brighouse on Tuesday. Manager Darren Hepworth has called an extra training session to assess the fitness of his players on Saturday ahead of the tie.

On Tuesday night Hepworth was counting the cost of an injury to the clubs leading striker David Heagney in their 1-0 victory over Askern Villa.  It appears that Heagney has aggravated the medial ligament injury which ended his professional career, he is receiving treatment from the club physio Annette Tinsley for the injury but the severity of the injury is unkown at this stage.

Captain Judd Colley jarred his back and fellow defender Paul Banton also picked up a calf strain but Hepworth is hoping that both will be fit to participate again on Tuesday.

Meanwhile long term absentees Steven Kenworthy and Antony Leech are both still a way off regaining fitness but continue to receive specialist attention.

Emley’s second team have a local derby of their own on Friday Evening (7.30pm) when they entertain Storthes Hall in a WRCL Division One tie.  Emley are currently 5th in the table whilst Hall are keeping their heads just above the relegation places in 11th.

06.01.12 - Worksop Parramore Match Preview.

Former Emley manager Darren Bland returns to the Welfare Ground on Saturday (3.00pm) with his new club Worksop Parramore. 

Bland resigned from his post at Emley in November 2010 and took up the reigns at NCEL newcomers Parramore at the start of the current season.  His side have been at the top of the table for much of the season but defeats in their last two outings have seen them slip to 5th place.  When the two sides met on the opening day of the season Worksop ran out comfortable 4-0 victors against an out of sorts Emley side.

There will be a number of familiar faces on show for Parramore who have a number of ex Emley players in their squad including Andy Brownrigg, Matt Thorpe, Jamie Smith and Teo Ringrose. 

Current Emley manager Darren Hepworth is keen to put one over on his former colleague:
“I still speak to Blandy on a regular basis and have a great deal of respect for him but I’m determined for us to go out and put a big performance in on Saturday.  They fell to a surprise defeat at Dinnington on Monday and will no doubt be looking to put things right against us.”

Hepworth has once again been busy in the transfer market, following the signing of Harrogate Railway striker Darren Barrick he has now signed goalkeeper Luke Herriott from Handsworth.  The 21 year old started out at Mansfield and had spells at Ossett Albion and Retford United last season but has missed much of this season through injury after signing for Handsworth in the close season. 

Herriott did put in an impressive display against Emley in Handsworth’s 1-0 Presidents Cup victory back in August which caught the eye of Hepworth and it was this that spurred him on to sign the keeper.  Hepworth commented:

“Luke is a great young prospect and I’m pleased to have signed him.  We originally made an approach after Mick Clarke was suspended but he was due to have an operation so I’m pleased that he has come back to us. We had competition for his signature from 6 other clubs including some NCEL Premier teams but I’m delighted that he picked us.”

With Clarke still suspended, Herriott is likely to go straight into the squad subject to the transfer going through in time before Saturday’s game.

In the meantime Emley have also received a boost hearing that Mark Stuart will not be receiving a 112 day ban.  The league had ruled that following an accumulation of suspensions over the past two years Stuart would be in line for this ban but it appears that the NCEL management committee have backed down on this ruling following ambiguity in the wording of an FA directive. 

Due to the heavy rain over the past week the club are advising fans heading to the game to check their website, twitter and facebook feeds that the game is still on be travelling.

 

23.12.11 - Christmas Messages.

 

Presidents Message

On behalf of all the Committee, Players and Management we wish all of our fans and sponsors a happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. 

This has been a very up and down year for the club from the high’s of a march up the league table following Daz’s appointment as manager.  Then a battle to keep our home at the Welfare Ground over the summer break – this was secured thanks to the sterling efforts of our Chairman John Whitehead and fellow committee members.

After a strong pre season our form has been inconsistent and we must look to halt this slide as soon as possible.  Daz and Roly are working hard to turn things around as are all of the playing staff and hopefully some winning form won’t be far away.

We hope that the Emley faithful will be out in force on Boxing Day when we entertain our local rivals Hemsworth.  Please note that the kick off is at 1.00pm and the Sports Bar will be open from 12.00 noon.

The Christmas Draw will be held in the bar following the game.

All the best

Rob

Daz’s Christmas Message

Firstly I'm hoping you are enjoying a wonderful festive season and thank you for including AFC Emley in your holiday plans. I hope monday's game with Hemsworth provides a Christmas cracker in terms of entertainment as long as we come away with the three points!

Of course based on form Hemsworth are the favourites winning 5 of their last 6 games which has propelled them up into 6th place. Our form has been the complete opposite and has seen us slip disappointingly down into 12th place. Without stating the obvious Hemsworth will provide a tough test for us but one we would expect anyway irrespective of league positions.

For me we have everything still to play for this season. Going into this campaign we had prepared thoroughly during preseason and I was quietly confident of at least a top 4 place this season. This despite long term injuries to key players Steve Kenworthy, Antony Leech and more recently Marc Townsend. Up until our away fixture with Eccleshill at the beginning of October we were very much in the mix and indeed we were seconds away from securing a valuable 1-0 win which would have taken us up into 5th spot. Then a bizarre series of events ended up with the game being abandoned and with it our goalkeeper suspended until the beginning of January. On reflection this appears to have been a pivotal moment in our season. Of course suspensions and injuries are part and parcel of football and I have said before that I don't regard those as excuses for performances and ultimately results in the long run.

So what target am I pinning down as a revised target for the end of this season? You may think I'm a tad optimistic but I really, really believe we can achieve top 6. I'm basing this on three factors.

Firstly we have the players and talent. Going forwards we are a potent attacking force, in Scott Holt and David Heagney we have natural goal scorers as proven by their standing in the scorers charts. Heggers is still the leading goalscorer in the NCEL Division One (incl league & cups)......an outstanding talent we are lucky to have him up here. Clearly the biggest area for improvement is our defending and cutting out basic errors for which we are being punished. This is my number one priority in training and in the transfer market. We will find the solution.

Secondly we DO have the desire and belief. We are hurting at the moment and we OWE performances and ultimately results. I am absolutely convinced you will see this in our play in a way that has been lacking in recent games. Not having a game for 3 weeks has forced us indoors and the lads have responded very well to some intense sessions. Similar to last season we must take advantage of this break to regroup and refocus. I know these lads and I KNOW they will respond.

Thirdly of our last 16 league games only FOUR are away. We must make the Welfare Ground a fortress. Cliché I know but there has never been a truer statement in this respect. 16 cup finals playing for 48 points. That's the way I'm looking at the rest of this season. Only then should we be judged.

Enjoy the game today and as we head towards the New Year I hope 2012 brings you health and happiness!

As ever thank you for your support. It's something I respect greatly and inspires both Roly and I to work harder to bring success to this very
deserving football club.

Daz

24.11.11 - Worsbrough Match Preview.

Emley travel to Worsborough Bridge on Saturday looking to get their form back on track after a disappointing month that has seen them slip to 10th in the table.  The game is marks a year since Darren  Hepworth took over as manager and he has shared a few thoughts with us ahead of the game on the teams recent form:

“I will be glad to see the back of November. Heading into Saturday's game at Worsborough we are searching for our first win in 7 games - clearly this is a run that has been damaging but it’s far from terminal. I am still confident that come the end of this season we will have demonstrated progress both on and off the field. Of course it's on the field and ultimately our results by which I'm judged and I accept full responsibility. I have never shirked a challenge and I'm certainly not going to start now.

OK we've had lots of injuries and away games on the bounce but that's all part and parcel of football - I accept that. Regarding our discipline. Firstly I take this very seriously and the players know this. We are not a dirty team - sometimes naive yes - but not dirty. In fact I wish we were more aggressive - we are trying to find that blend of silk and steel.

My main priority right now (stating the obvious) is to tighten us up defensively - clearly conceding an average of over two goals a game is not a recipe for success (as much as it maybe entertaining for the away and neutral fan).

I'm addressing this in two ways. Firstly I'm working hard on improving our defensive shape both in open play and set pieces - the players have been in for extra sessions and we are very focussed on this. Secondly both Roly and I have been working overtime to strengthen us defensively. Relative to the financial resources we have available to us we do compete unbelievably well. We are fully utilising our network of contacts both upwards and across the leagues......you will continue to see this in action and my phone and petrol bills remind me of that!

In fact just this week we have moved for another defender and a goalkeeper. As much as its tempting to bring in new faces its a balancing act. Its important to take a step back when things aren't going right and evaluate.

Firstly you have to trust the players you have to solve the puzzle. If that doesn't work then I need to act - and I have.

The results will come I know that - I know these lads and they will deliver. We have to be patient, keep working hard and focus on improving. We are learning a lot about ourselves and the character we have which will stand us in good stead in the long run.

I know the expectations are high at this football club - trust me I share the same ambition. Your support, as always, is hugely important to us – and we need it at times like this more than ever.”

20.10.11 - Glasshoughton Match Preview.

AFC Emley have been hit by another injury blow ahead of their FA Vase clash at Glasshougton Welfare on Saturday (3.00pm) as midfielder Marc Townsend was involved in a crash with an Ambulance on the way home from their victory over Louth on tuesday. 

Townsend was who was travelling with fellow players Nick Reid, Josh Ingham and Gav Armitage came out the worse from the accident suffering from whiplash and heavy bruising but was given the all clear to return home following a precautionary visit to Scunthorpe Infirmary.  The other three players only recieved superficial injuries.

Townsend will be ruled out of the clash leaving Darren Hepworth's side lacking in midfield players with Chris Wdowczyk cup tied, Mark Stuart suspended and John Cyrus struggling through injury.  Key defenders Antony Leech and Judd Colley are also out leaving Hepworth with a selection headache.

Scott Holt made a successful return to the side following a hamstring injury and scored the opening goal at Louth.  David Heagney notched his 18th of the season in the game and Dean Wharam rounded up the scoring with his first since returning to the club giving Hepworth plenty of attacking options for the tie. 

Hepworth is more than aware of the threat that saturday's opponents present with the two sides having met just a week and a half ago with Welfare running out 4-3 winners.

"We know exactly what Glasshoughton are capable of - they are a good footballing team who play the game at fast pace and have plenty of goals in them."

"We are up against it with so many players out - Marc Townsend was figuring firmly in my plans for Saturday and whilst it's a blow to lose him for the game i'm just glad that he hasn't sustained a more serious injury. A huge positive though was the return of Scott Holt after a long spell out and his presence on the field was a great inspiration." 

"Whilst the squad is going to be stretched for the game i'm confident that we come away from Glasshoughton with a result.  A good run in the Vase was one of the main aims that we set out achieve at the start of the season and we will be looking to follow this through on Saturday.  We worked hard for a great win in the last round at Liversedge and i'm looking for more of the same belief against Glasshoughton."

14.10.11 - Handsworth Match Preview.

Emley travel to Sheffield based Handsworth on Saturday aiming to get things back on track after falling to their first defeat since August on Tuesday night.  Darren Hepworth’s men went down 4-3 to second placed Glasshoughton in a thrilling encounter. 

Saturday’s opponents Handsworth will prove another tough test as they are currently sitting 3rd in the table with Hepworth’s men dropping to 7th courtesy of their defeat.

Hepworth was disappointed with his sides result on Tuesday night after they had squandered an early two goal lead.

“We started magnificently and took the game to Glasshoughton but then took our foot off the gas after going two goals up.  We gave away too many set pieces in dangerous areas and didn’t mark their men tightly enough.”

“The game was played at a terrific tempo throughout and must have been great for the spectators but it was a nightmare for a manager.  I’m expecting a similar game on Saturday at Handsworth – they are a highly motivated team and always prove to be a tough opponent.”

The two sides have already met twice in cup competitions this season.  Handsworth were narrow 1-0 winners in the Presidents Cup whilst Emley triumphed on penalties in the Wilkinson Sword Trophy. 

Hepworth is without the suspended Mark Stuart but welcomes Gavin Armitage into the squad. He is waiting on the fitness of 17 goal David Heagney who picked up a knock on Tuesday.  Scott Holt is also a consideration but is still a doubt due to a hamstring injury. 

Fellow striker Steven Kenworthy has suffered a setback in his recovery from an ankle ligament injury and could still be another 6 weeks off match fitness.  With this in mind Hepworth has re-signed Dean Wharam to bolster the attack.  Wharam bagged 13 goals for the club last season after signing in January.

Squad (from):
Valente, Reid, Tayo, Cyrus, Leech, Hazelden, Dowling, Wdowczyk, Ingham, Armitage, Heagney, Wharam, Holt, Roberts, Horton.

 

Hepworth Strengthens the Squad.

Emley manager Darren Hepworth has strengthened his squad with the addition of goalkeeper Adam Valente, who has signed from Hallam and Craig Goodyear who joins from Hemsworth. 

Valente has higher level experience with Gainsborough, Worksop and Retford United having previously served an apprenticeship with Lincoln City.  Goodyear played for Hemsworth last season after signing from Pontefract Collieries.  Hepworth was delighted with his two additions to the side: 

“Adam has come highly recommended to me and we had to work hard to secure his signature.    A couple of other clubs in our league were looking to sign him too but I’m delighted that he has chosen to sign for us.”

“Craig is well known to my assistant Roly from his time at Hemsworth and will give us added options in the middle of the park.”

Hepworth also has his sights set on another defender as he looks to strengthen his squad going into a run of six further games away from home which continues at Glasshoughton on Tuesday.

Hepworth is hoping to have Antony Leech, Nathan Tayo and Marc Townsend back in the squad for the trip to Glasshoughton but is likely to be without Curtis Roberts who went off with a thigh strain on Saturday.

Mark Stuart will play his final match before a 4 game suspension which starts on Saturday when Emley travel to Handsworth. 

Darren welcomes new signing Adam Valente.Valente

04.10.11 - Club Statement Re Eccleshill Game Incident.

Following a meeting between the AFC Emley Committee and manager Darren Hepworth the decision has been taken to suspend goalkeeper Mick Clark for his actions during the recent fixture with Eccleshill. 

The club moved swiftly to discipline Clark after he was sent off in injury time following his protests to the match referee after a controversial equaliser in which it appeared that an Eccleshill player had pushed the ball out of his hands.

Whilst the club agree with Mick that the goal should not have been allowed we in no way condone his actions following the referees decision.  Players cannot dictate to the officials in the way that Mick did, at the end of the day the referee’s decision is final.  

Mick has spoken to Darren at length about his actions and he is genuinely regrets the way he reacted to the decision.  In turn he will be apologising to his fellow players at tonights game and the league committee.

Clark has also received a substantial and unprecedented fine from the club who will now await the ruling from the league upon their punishment for the incident. 

 

29.09.11 - Eccleshill Match Preview.

Emley travel to Eccleshill on Saturday (3.00pm) looking to build upon a run of 6 consecutive victories.

Eccleshill who are managed by former Emley boss Ian Banks are currently 5th in the NCEL Division One table, 2 places above Emley but a win for Emley would put them back level on points.

Current Emley boss Darren Hepworth has a good record in his meetings with Eccleshill recording a 1-0 win over them last season and an impressive 3-0 victory in pre season.  He commented in the run up to the game:  “ I have lots of respect for Banger and there is a healthy mutual rivalry between us but make no mistake I want to win on Saturday. We have done well against them in the past but we won’t be complacent – the lads are fired up and keen to keep our good run going.”

Emley beat Askern 3-1 in midweek – a performance that pleased and frustrated Hepworth in equal measure.  “We were excellent in the first half, creating plenty of chances and playing some good football even after we went down to 10 men (after the sending off of Mark Stuart) we looked on top. In the second half we let our standards slip and allowed Askern back in the game, fortunately we responded quickly to their equaliser and got back on track but really we should have won more comfortably than we actually did.”

“I had strong words with Stuey after the game and let him know how disappointed I was with the manner of his sending off.  He had been great for us up to that point and a real influence on the game but let his team mates, the supporters and himself down badly with a moment of indiscipline.  He was genuinely sorry for his actions after the game but will now pay the price as he is likely to be suspended for some time and with competition for places as strong as it is he will have to fight to get his place back.”

Hepworth had 11 goal leading scorer David Heagney to thank for setting his side on the road to victory.  Heagney has now notched a goal in each of his sides last 10 games a run which stretches back to the FA Cup defeat to Hall Road Rangers back in August.

The goal put Heagney on level terms at the top of the league scoring charts with Eccleshill’s Marcus Edwards, combining this with two of the league’s form teams in action the game promises to be an entertaining affair.

Hepworth has doubts over Chris Wydowczyk (toe) and Scott Holt (hamstring) and will be naming his squad following Thursday night’s training session. 

Meanwhile Emley’s reserve team are away at WRCL Div 1 runaway leaders Lepton Highlanders.  Highlanders were 5-0 winners when the two sides met last back in August.   

26.09.11 - Managers Post Match Reaction - FA Vase Victory.

Emley manager Darren Hepworth heaped praise upon his players after they defeated NCEL Premier side Liversedge in the  FA Vase on Saturday .  Hepworth’s men eventually triumphed 3-2 in an entertaining game played a Liversedges Clayborn Ground. 

Hepworth commented:

“I was delighted with the attitude shown by the team. Everybody put a performance in and we were rewarded with a good win.  Loosing Scott Holt with a hamstring injury early on was a blow for us but the whole team responded well.”

“We conceded a goal at the worst possible time just before half time but full credit to the team they came out in the second half and battled to take the game into extra time.  I thought that we might have suffered in extra time after going all the way to a penalty shoot out on Tuesday night too but we actually looked the fitter side.”

“We looked strong in defence and the back four showed the kind of aggression that I’ve been asking for from them for weeks and in the middle of the park Josh Ingham covered just about every blade of grass on the field.”

The manager also revealed that Holt’s strike partner David Heagney who set up his sides first two goals and scored the winner direct from a corner kick had been a doubt before the game. “Heggers had been struggling with a sickness bug before the game but I asked him if he would play and I’m relieved that he did.” 

Heagney, who took his tally to into double figures for the season has now scored in each of Emley’s last 9 games and will be looking to make that 10 when his team entertain Askern Villa at the Welfare Ground on Tuesday evening (7.45pm kick off).

 

22.09.11 - Liversedge Match Preview.

Emley travel to local rivals Liversedge in the FA Vase 2nd Qualifying Round on Saturday (3.00pm kick off) hoping to build on their midweek penalty shoot out victory over Handsworth. 

Liversedge are currently in 8th place in the NCEL Premier whilst Emley have slipped down to 9th in the First Division by virtue of other midweek league results whilst they were in Wilkinson Sword Trophy action and the tie will no doubt prove a tough test for Darren Hepworth’s men.

The Emley boss will be without Mark Townsend and Brad Dowling but Matt Kilner, Nathan Tayo and Anthony Leech are back in contention.  Recent signing Chris Wydowczyk is cup tied having played for Brighouse in the first round of the competition.

In the run up to the tie Hepworth spoke of the need to keep the momentum currently behind his side:

“Saturday is a massive game for us firstly because it is the FA Vase and the prize money on offer for winning a game is vitally important to the clubs finances.  Secondly it is important to keep our good run going, we are unbeaten in four games now and the squad is growing in belief.”

“We were guilty of making some mistakes earlier on and went behind to a couple of early goals on Tuesday but I was pleased by the way that the team got together as a unit and kept battling to the final whistle.”

Hepworth revealed that approaches had been made to two of his squad by higher level sides in recent weeks but they have opted to stay at Emley. 

“John Cyrus and David Heagney have both had advances made to them by other clubs but they have given me their commitment to stay at Emley.  It’s a great tribute to the team spirit that we have here and I’m delighted that they are staying as both have been outstanding this season.”

Squad
Clark, Leech, Tayo, Cyrus, Colley, Hazelden, Ingham, Stuart, Heagney, Holt, Reid, Armitage, Amos, Kilner, Arundel, Ryan.

08.09.11 - Hepworth Appoints New Assistant Manager.

AFC Emley manager Darren Hepworth has moved quickly to appoint a new assistant manager after Micky Reid stepped down from the role.  Roly Lanes, who was formerly the manager of league rivals Pontefract Collieries and more recently assistant at Hemsworth, has stepped into the role and met the players for the first time on Tuesday evening’s 6-1 victory over Yorkshire Amateur.

Ex-Huddersfield Town man Reid stepped down from his role after work and other coaching commitments limited his availability to spend time at Emley.  Hepworth paid tribute to his former assistant:

“I’m sad to lose Mick, he has been my right hand man since I took on the role of reserve team manager two years ago and I am indebted to him for all of his help.  He has said that he would continue to be involved with the club wherever possible and will always be welcome up at the Welfare Ground.”

“At the same time I am delighted to welcome Roly on board.  He has a wealth of experience at this level of football and a good knowledge of players in the area.  We have identified a handful of potential transfer targets and are looking to get a few more players on board to strengthen the squad.”

Lanes has been assistant manager at Hemsworth for the last two years after leaving the managers role at Pontefract.  He then took the role of manager at Brodsworth over the summer as the club looked to rebuild for the future groundsharing with Featherstone Rovers.  The club folded on the eve of the season however as Rovers withdrew their offer to share the ground and Lanes has been club-less since. 

Emley’s first XI are without a fixture this Saturday but the reserves have a home game with Tingley Athletic on Friday evening (7.30pm kick off). 

Darren Hepworth and Roly Lanes

Steve Lavington Passes Away.

We have received the sad and shock news that our under 18’s manager Steve Lavington has died.  Steve was admitted to hospital on Friday, the day after his side’s final pre-season friendly and passed away on Sunday.

Steve has been involved in junior football in Emley for 15 years and recently joined the clubs management committee as we have worked to integrate the juniors into the club on a greater scale.  Steve has coached many young players including two current Emley first team squad members Nicky Reid and Josh Ingham. 

Funeral arrangements will be posted as soon as we have the information.  At the moment its intended that the Under 18s fixture with Netherton, scheduled for Sunday at the Welfare Ground will still take place.

On behalf of all at the club and Steve’s fellow committee members we send our sincerest condolences to his family. 

The Emley Under 18's team pay their respects with a minutes silence for Steve.

 

22.08.11 Kirklees College Sports Academy.

AFC Emley are pleased to announce that they will be strengthening their links with Kirklees College, who have announced the opening of their Sports Academy and are looking to recruit its first ever academy football team for September 2011.

The college hopes to develop the academy from offering football in its first year to include many other sports for male and female students in the following years. The sports academy boasts great access to facilities at Leeds Road playing fields and head coach Wayne Allison, a former professional footballer who also coaches Bradford City.

Sports coaches at Kirklees College hope to attract interest over the summer from keen and talented footballers who want to study a sports course at college, but also want to train in football several days a week like a professional.

Sports Development Officer, Adrian Tallon said, “We’ve already got great opportunities for this year’s squad. We have strong links with semi-professional club AFC Emley and a top class coach to bring out the best in our students.

“The male football team is the first of a number of sports we will set up over the next few years. The students will not only have sporting opportunities on the field, but by studying a sports course with us, they will get ahead of the game with a qualification too.”

Kirklees College Sports Academy can offer:

The college is looking for males aged between 16-19 who play football, want to study a sports course and want to be play for the region’s newest academy. Anyone interested can call the Kirklees College Sports Academy hotline on 01484 437053.

You can download a promotional flyer by clicking here.

The Sports Academy is now open for enrollment - Contact the Hotline on 01484 437053.

15.08.11- Update.

FA Cup Date Change

Our FA Cup extra preliminary round tie with Hall Road Rangers has been switched from Saturday afternoon to Friday 19th August (7.45pm) due to a fixture clash with the Cricket club.  Our opponents will provide a tough test having won their three opening fixtures in contrast to our run of 3 straight defeats and currently placed 2nd in the NCEL Premier Division.

Sheffield Cup Draws

Emley’s first team have received a home draw in the Sheffield and Hallamshire Senior Cup against Frecheville CA of the Sheffield County Senior League.  The reserves are pitted away against Silkstone United in the Rosehill Press Association Challenge Cup.  Both ties are scheduled to take place in the week commencing Saturday 8th October.  The first team tie is likely to be moved to a midweek date subject to rearrangement of league fixtures.

Reserves Fixtures Released

The WRCL have announced their first block of fixtures this week and we have been awarded with 4 away ties as follows:

Wednesday 17th August. Overthorpe Sports      Away     6.15pm

Saturday 20th August.     Salts       Away     2.00pm

Wednesday 24th August    Wakefield City    Away   6.15pm

Saturday 27th August.   Hunsworth         Away               2.00pm.

 

09.08.11 - Handsworth Match Preview.

Emley manager Darren Hepworth is looking for a much improved performance from his side on Wednesday evening (7.45pm) when they visit Handsworth in the Presidents cup. 

His side fell to a heavy 4.0 defeat at league newcomers Worksop Parramore on Saturday and Hepworth is keen for his team to make amends straight away. 

“I can make no excuses about our performance on Saturday – it was simply the worst I have seen since becoming a manager.  We prepared well for the game, had our tactics sorted and then straight from the kick off we just forgot all about what we had been working so hard on throughout pre-season.”

“This was not the kind of performance that I would expect from one of my teams and we will be looking to put things right straight away on Wednesday.”

Hepworth watched Handsworth get off to a winning start to their campaign defeating Hallam 1-0 at their Oliver’s Mount ground on Sunday afternoon. 

“Handsworth play a strong physical game and don’t give much away on their home ground.  We have to be much more up for it on Wednesday if we are going to achieve anything from this fixture.”

The two sides met twice in the league last season with Handsworth running out 4-0 winners at home but Emley got their revenge at the Welfare Ground with a 6-1 victory inspired by Steven Kenworthy who got all 6 of the goals.  Kenworthy will be sidelined well into September with an ankle ligament injury.

Handsworth have strengthened their side for the new season as they look to improve on their 4th place finish last season with the addition of the prolific former Sheffield FC and Frickley Athletic striker Brian Cusworth and ex-Emley man Lee Hill. 

04.08.11 - Worksop Parramore Preview.

AFC Emley play their first NCEL fixture of the season on Saturday, travelling to league new boys Worksop Parramore (3.00pm kick off).

Parramore gained promotion as runaway champions of the Windor Food Services Senior League last season in the form of Parramore Sports and have adopted the Worksop title after purchasing the former Worksop Town stadium, Sandy Lane.  Parramore have entered into a ground sharing agreement with Town allowing them to return to the stadium after spending the last 3 seasons groundsharing with Hucknall, Ilkeston and Retford.

Emley manager Darren Hepworth has watched Parramore twice in the run up to the fixture and been impressed by what he has seen.  “Parramore are not here to make up the numbers this season.  They are a decent footballing side and scored goals for fun last season, on top of that they have two rock solid centre halves.  We certainly won’t be taking the task lightly.”

Hepworth suffered the blow of loosing last season’s leading scorer Steven Kenworthy to an ankle ligament injury in their final pre season friendly.  Kenworthy was brought down when through on goal by the Staveley goalkeeper and is likely to be out for 6-8 weeks.  Hepworth commented:

“It’s a blow to lose Kenny but I don’t think that there was any malice on the keepers part, he just landed awkwardly.  We won’t be able to make a full assessment on the injury until the swelling goes down.”

“I do think that we are in a stronger position to deal with a loss than last season.  The attitude of all of the players in pre season has been superb.  They have all worked hard on fitness in training and played some excellent football in the friendly fixtures.”

Hepworth has strengthened his squad with the addition of 4 attacking players in the pre-season in the shape of Scott Holt, Matt Kilner, Gav Armitage and David Heagney, all are set to figure on Saturday.  Dean Wharam has however moved up two levels to play for Ossett Albion.

Holt, who scored Emley’s opener in the friendly victory over Town has experience with FC United, Mossley and Abbey Hey.  Kilner spent last season with Bay Athletic and Armitage returns to Emley after a season out. Heagney has previously been on the books of Town and Scottish Premier side St Johnstone. 

Hepworth also names young defender Jamie Arundell and goalkeeper Lewis Rhodes (son of Ex-Emley keeper Andy, and brother of Town striker Jordan) in his squad.  Nicky Reid and Josh Ingham are both unavailable and John Cyrus is injured. 

SQUAD:
Clarke, Leech, Tayo, Dowling, Colley, Hazelden, Stuart, Townsend, Roberts, Armitage, Heagney, Holt, Kilner, Amos, Arundel, Rhodes. 

 

 

22.07.11 - Emley 2 - Huddersfield Town 1.

Darren Hepworth will be rightly pleased with an excellent performance against Lee Clark's development side at the Welfare Ground last night. Curtis Roberts cross into the box was met by Scott Holt to push home. John Cyrus doubled the lead before half time with a header, Steven Kenworthy had gone close striking the bar. Robbie Simspon had a couple of good chances which went either wide or into the home keepers hands. Coming under sustained pressue in the second half the team did finally concede a goal deep into injury time when Charlton got on the end of a rebound to poke home.

Huddersfield Town yet again demonstrated what a good friend of the club they are by bringing a competetive side to the Welfare during their busy pre - season. All concerned at Emley wish Lee Clark and his team the promotion that they have come so close to over the last couple of seasons. A special thanks goes to all the supporters from both sides who made the trip up to Emley for the fixture.

 

19.07.11 - Emley Play Worksop Parramore In First League Game.

Emley will pay a visit to Worksop Parramore in their first league game of the season on the 6th of August. Now playing at the Sandy Lane ground, it will be a tuff opening game for Darren and the Team.

Full Fixtures can be Found Here

11.07.11 - Eccleshill PSF News.

AFC Emley manager Darren Hepworth leads his side into their first pre season friendly on Tuesday evening at Eccleshill United (kick off 7.30pm).

Hepworth has been busy in pre season training putting over 50 players through their paces with training sessions held 3 times a week.  Hepworth has retained all but two of last season’s squad and is looking for good performances from the new faces to cement their place in the squad.   

“I’m delighted that nearly all of last season’s squad have stayed with us, the turnout at every training session has been fantastic with over 30 players at each one. They have looked sharp and hungry in training and now it’s up to the players to show that they can do it in a real match situation.”

Amongst the new players who will figure on Tuesday night are Scott Holt (a winger who has played in the NWCL for FC United, Mossley and Abbey Hey), Ian Brock (a defender who played at Eccleshill last season) and Gavin Armitage who returns to the club after a spell at Hopton last season.

The two players leaving Emley are Alex Barnes and Teo Ringrose.  The talented Maltese Under 19 winger Ringrose has been given the opportunity to step up to Evo Stik League football and has signed for Frickley Athletic. 

Hepworth added: “I’d like to thank both Alex and Teo for their contributions last season.  We always knew that it would be difficult to hold onto Teo as he had been watched by a whole host of clubs last season.  I’m glad that he has got the chance to show his talents off at a higher level.”

After the Eccleshill game Emley’s fixtures come thick and fast with another away game at Tadcaster Albion on Saturday.  The club will be running a coach to this game and any spectator wishing to travel can contact club secretary John Whitehead to book a seat (07850957161). 

Meanwhile Emley have received a home draw in the FA Cup against NCEL Premier side Hall Road Rangers, the fixture is scheduled for the weekend of the 20th August. In the FA Vase they have a local derby away at Liversedge on the 24th September.

 

08.07.11 - FA Cup & Vase Draws Made.

Emley will play Hall Road Rangers on the 20th August - in the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round at home. Should the be succesfful they will then play either Parkgate away from home on the 3rd of September in the Preliminary round..

Should Emley come through these games then a home game against Whitby await in the 1st qualifying round proper

In the FA VAse Emley will start in the 2nd Round Qualifying on the 24th September -with an away tie against Liversedge. The winner of that tie will be away to either Glasshoughton Welfare or Bottesford Town.

 

01.07.11 Under 17's Presentation Eveing.

AFC Emley under 17's held their end of season presentation evening at the Sports Bar on Friday evening.  The event was hosted by Steve Lavington the team manager who gave a detailed speech describing the ups and downs of the season gone before handing out individual awards to each squad member. 

Following this the main awards were announced with the winners as follows:

Player of the Year:  Daniel Pitt
Players Player of the Year: Oliver Ghee
Most Improved Player: Rob Elms
Clubman of the Year: Ryan Charlesworth and Tom Cumiskey.

Following the awards first team manager Darren Hepworth spoke of his desire to build stronger links between the senior and junior set ups.  The juniors had their first taste of the senior set up on Thursday when they trained with the first team for the first time and it is our intention to continue this integration between the two sections. 

Two members of the current first team squad; Josh Ingham and Nick Reid played under Lavington as juniors and it is hoped that this will continue into the future.

In the long term the club hopes to build a junior set up with players in all age groups.  This of course requires the assistance of volunteers so if anybody is interested in helping out with establishing this please get in touch.

The Annual General Meeting of AFC Emley will take place on Friday 15th July 2011 at 7.30pm at
The Sports Bar, Emley Football Club

This is the sixth official AGM for the club and we would like as many members to attend as possible.

The fifth year end accounts will be distributed on the night.

As you are aware a number of positions on the Management Committee are to change this time round due to the resignation of the Chairman Graham Roys, Treasurer Selina Roys and Committee Member Richard Hazelden. In accordance with our constitution the Officers of the club shall be Club President, Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Treasurer and Secretary plus 4 other members to be elected at the Annual General Meeting.
The following members are standing for election/re-election :-
Club President – Rob Dixon
Chairperson – John R Whitehead
Vice Chairperson – John Mason
Treasurer – Ian Steele
Secretary – John R Whitehead
Committee – Alan Hird, Graeme Dodgson and Nicky Bramald.

As one place remains vacant on the committee any interested member can stand for election provided that he/she is proposed by one and seconded by another, both of whom must be existing members of the club, in writing to the club Secretary, 7 days prior to the Annual General Meeting.

Should any member wish to include any other business this should be notified, to the Secretary, in writing 7 days prior to the Annual General Meeting. 

 

 

30.06.11 - No Promotion For The Reserves.

AFC Emley’s reserve team will not be promoted to the WRCL Premier division as initially expected.

Nicky Bramald’s team finished last season in 3rd place behind Littletown and Bay Athletic Reserves.  It was at first expected that Emley would take the second promotion spot as Bay’s reserves would not be allowed promotion into the same division as their first team. 

However after a vote at the leagues AGM on Tuesday it was decided to reduce the number of clubs in the Premier Division from 16 to 14 teams.  With 2nd placed Albion Sports promoted to the NCEL first division where they will be competing with Emley’s first team this left one space to fill which went to the division one champions Littletown.

Emley’s reserves will make up a 15 club first division along with Storthes Hall and Bay’s reserve sides and Jimmy Martin’s newly promoted Lepton Highlanders.

Bramald remained philosophical about the decision:

“We are disappointed that we won’t be going up to the Premier this time but completely accept the decision of our fellow clubs. We were hit hard by players being recruited to the first team last season but finished really strongly.  Hopefully this year with if we can add a few new faces to the squad we will be capable of making a challenge for promotion.”

In the run up to the new season which commences on Wednesday 17th August the reserves have scheduled 3 friendly matches:

Thursday 28th July:              Cumberworth (away)          Kick Off (7.00pm)
Thursday 4th August:           Kinsley Boys (away)            Kick Off (7.30pm)
Friday 12th August:              Hall Green (away)                Kick Off (7.00pm)

25.06.11 - Update on Pre-Season Training, Cup Draws and Under 18's Presentation Evening.

AFC Emley boss Darren Hepworth has praised the attitude of his squad after they returned for pre season training sessions this week. 

The sessions held on Tuesday and Thursday evening this week at Scissett Middle School were well attended with a number of hopefuls joining last years squad. 

The manager commented "The players have superb in training, I had planned an easy session on Tuesday to ease them back into things but they displayed a real hunger and (reserve team coach) Nicky Bramald really ended up putting them through their paces."

Coaches Micky Reid, Nicky Bramald and Ray Dennis accompanied Hepworth as he put over 30 players through their paces.  Training sessions will continue to be held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the schoool from 7.00pm.  Players interested in coming down to training can contact on Darren on 07730066410.

Meanwhile, the club have arranged another pre season friendly away at NCEL Premier side Tadcaster on Saturday 16th July (3.00pm kick off). 

The NCEL comittee have also in the last week made the draws for the 3 cup competions.  Emley have been drawn at home to local rivals Hemsworth in the League Cup and will face Sheffield based Handsworth in the the other two competitions.  They have a home draw in the Wilkinson Sword Trophy and an away tie in the Presidents cup.  Dates have not been set yet for these fixtures but will be announced along with the league fixtures in July.

The AFC Emley Sports Bar Re-opens on Friday 1st July for the Under 18s presentation evening (7.30pm).  All supporters and players are welcome for the event. 

Kit Sponsorship
We will once again be running the players kit sponsorship this season.  Prices have been held at £20 for the shirt, £10 for shorts and £5 for the socks.  For a whole kit this is discounted to £30.  All donations will be listed in each match programme and on the website throughout the season. 

For further details contact Rob Dixon on 07714293301 or email Libby Leach on Emley_sponsorship@rocketmail.com

Many thanks to the following who have sponsored full kits already:

Anthony Leech - Sponsored By John Whitehead
Judd Colley - Sponsored By Libby Leech
Josh Ingham - Sponsored By QUOCAD Ltd
Curtis Roberts - Sponsored By QUOCAD Ltd
Nathan Tayo - Sponsored By Rob Dixon

 

23.06.11 - Tadcaster Friendley Now Arranged.

AFC Emley have added a further PSF to the list when they visit Tadcaster Albion on Saturday the 16th of July 2011 for a 3.00 Pm kick off. Tadcaster have proved a thorn in the side of Emley in previous meetings and this will be a tough encounter against a side who proved tough competitors in their first season in the NCEL top flight.

17.06.2011 - Pre- Season Training and Friendlies Announced.

AFC Emley have lined up a tough pre season schedule ahead of their next season in the NCEL First Division as Darren Hepworth looks to build upon last season’s 8th place finish. 

Hepworth’s sides first test is against former Emley manager Ian Banks’ Eccleshill side on Tuesday 12th July.  The manager is also hoping to schedule another fixture during the following week – full details will be announced as soon as available.

The pick of the friendlies is against Huddersfield Town on Thursday 21st July a tie that regularly attracts a good crowd to the Welfare Ground and is vital to the clubs finances.

Following this they travel to Brighouse Town on the 23rd with home fixtures against Evo-Stik sides Frickley and Stocksbridge the following week. 

Finally they entertain last season’s NCEL champions Staveley on the 2nd August before kicking off the season proper on Saturday 6th August. 

Tues 12th July away to Eccleshill United - KO 7.30pm
Thurs 21st July home to Huddersfield Town - KO 7.30pm.
Sat 23rd July away to Brighouse Town - KO 3.00pm.
Tues 26th July home to Frickley Athletic - KO7.30pm.
Fri 29th July home to Stocksbridge PS KO 7.30pm.
Tues 2nd August home to Staveley MW – KO 7.30pm.
6th August NCEL commences.

Hepworth has set out his intentions to pick up where his side left off last season:

“We finished strongly last time out and will look to build on this from day one of the new season.  I’m delighted that the majority of last season’s squad have confirmed to me that they will be staying with the club.”

“If we are to challenge for honours this time we will need to add a couple more players to the squad to compete with our rivals.  I have been busy speaking to some good prospects over the past months and can’t wait to put them through their paces in training.” 

“We are an ambitious side and would encourage anybody who thinks that they can do a job for us to come along to training and force their way into the squad.”

Pre-season training will be held every Tuesday and Thursday up to the commencement of the season at Scissett Middle School at 7.00pm from the 21st June.  Darren Hepworth can be contacted on 07730066410.

05-06.11 - Clubs Future Secured - Award Winners.

An announcement by AFC Emley secretary John Whitehead kicked off a night of celebrations at the club’s end of season presentation evening. 

The club’s future had been at threat as its lease at the Welfare Ground had come to an end.  Due to the charitable status of the ground, the trustees of the former Emley Moor colliery ground were obliged to open negotiations with other interested parties to ensure that an open market rent had been set. 

Rumours had been circulating that the club was set to fold with another club making an offer for the facilities but the relieved secretary announced that the clubs bid had been accepted on Friday morning, much to the delight of the players, management and supporters at the event. 

He stated:  “We are delighted to have come to a deal with the trustees for use of the Welfare Ground and look forward to working with them as they aim to develop the facilities for the benefit of the people of Emley.” 

Whitehead also paid tribute to fellow committee member Richard Hazelden and chairman Graham Roys who are both stepping down from their roles at the club, before announcing that it was his intention to stand for position of Chairman at the end of Roys’ tenure.

The club enjoyed a turnaround in fortunes in the second half of the season after the appointment of Darren Hepworth as manager leading them from 17th to an 8th place finish in the NCEL first division.  Nicky Bramald and Ray Dennis’s reserve team secured a second successive promotion and will be in the WRCL Premier Division next season. 

Club captain Judd Colley was the recipient of the coveted Supporters Player of the Year whilst fellow centre half Sean Hazelden picked up the Players award and 29 goal striker Steven Kenworthy received the chairman’s award.

The reserve team’s Players Player of the year was won by long serving centre half Paul Robinson with captain Tom Bucknall getting the Managers Player of the year. 

Manager Hepworth ended the evening’s formalities with a stirring speech paying tribute to both squads of players and also to the clubs fans. 

“I can’t wait to get cracking next season and we are aiming to bring some silverware back to the Welfare Ground.  Anybody who thinks that we have achieved some success this season is wrong.  The hard work starts again now and must continue with the form that we showed at the end of last season if we are going to progress.”

Meanwhile the club will continue to be sponsored by Wm. Sykes & Son Estate Agents for the 7th season since the clubs formation.

The club’s pre season campaign is now only a few weeks away with training commencing on Tuesday 21st June at Scissett playing fields whilst the pre season friendlies are set to be announced later in the week.

Award Winners

31.05.11 - Club Presentation Evening.

The end of season club presenation evening will take place at The Grange, Grange Moor on Saturday the 4th of June 2011. It starts at 7.30 pm with the presentations commencing at 8.00 pm.