 7.30 pm on Tuesday, 26 November at Maccabi London, Rowley Ln, Barnet EN5 3HW Match report from David Lederman
The Arthurian League Representative XI returned to action for the first time since their summer adventures in Finland with a much-changed lineup but proved they are still very much the rep team to beat on the amateur circuit with an impressive 4-0 win over a strong Southern Amateur League XI at the Maccabi London Sports Ground in Arkley on Tuesday night, in the process taking a strong early grip on the Argonaut Trophy – the triangular round-robin competition also involving the Amateur Football Combination. A free-flowing opening half-hour saw both sides create several chances as play raced frantically from end to end, the scoreline somehow remaining blank to that point. But a superb move down the right wing saw debutant Callum Maltese feed the overlapping Ollie Light and he calmly rounded the keeper to slide in the opener. From that point on, the men in white took command, Jake Raine heading in ten minutes later to make it 2-0 before a third just before the break from the outstanding Maltese finished the match as a contest. Although the second half wasn’t quite as easy on the eye for those watching on, Reptonian Raine ensured the Arthurians had the final word, volleying in at the far post to round off a successful night’s work both for him and the team. Manager Billy Jenkins was beaming from ear to ear come the final whistle and with good reason. Whilst the nucleus of the squad that had won the FA Inter-League Cup back in May remained, thereby earning the opportunity to represent England at the UEFA Regions Cup in Finland in August, there were still plenty of new faces to ensure that Tuesday night undoubtedly felt like the start of a rebuild and a chance to scale the heights of amateur football once more. Several leading names that have served the Rep team with distinction over many years have moved on, not least in defence, with former skippers Pete Brooking and Ant Beddows and Reptonian giant Andy Evans all now unavailable. Brentwoods Harry Larke, who started every game in Finland in the heart of the midfield, was absent, as was injured left winger Josh Riley, whose last-minute equaliser against the host nation in the final group game provided a truly memorable moment on which to end the trip. But the latest recruits undoubtedly prove their manager’s eye for talent remains pin sharp with some excellent performances on Tuesday night. Four players were making their Rep team debuts: Reptonians centre-back Artem Aliev and winger Tom Jones, Epsomian midfielder Callum Holland and Forester Callum Maltese; a fifth, Cholms right-back Ollie Light, made his debut a couple of seasons ago but hadn’t played since. That quintet, combined with the heart of the all-conquering Repton side and stalwarts such as Chigs’ Josh Banfield, Johnians’ Craig Bonnar and Eton skipper Gus Shaw-Stewart – dragged out of potential retirement for what hopefully won’t be a last hurrah – ensured the As lined up with a pleasing blend of the old and the new, the young and the old, for the inaugural Argonaut Trophy fixture of 2024/25. Matches against the Southern Amateur League have always proved hard-fought affairs down the years, with July’s 4-0 friendly win for the As on the astroturf in Chiswick something of an anomaly given the extensive fitness and preparations the team had been undertaking prior to the Regions Cup and the rather hurriedly put together nature of the SAL team. Rarely, however, can many of the games between the two have started as frantically and open as this one did. Within five minutes of kick-off both sides had come close to scoring: the As threatened immediately, Tommy Redhead feeding Jake Raine down the left and he drove into the box before seeing his shot blocked – from the resulting throw-in, further pressure resulted in the striker firing over on the turn; the SAL responded with a lightning-quick break of their own, the right winger delivering a cross towards the penalty spot and a header that required Jonny Bowers to dive to his right to palm the ball away. The pattern was set for a thrilling first half as play raced from one end to the other, the SAL at times leaving four attackers upfield, the new-look As attack with Maltese on the right and Jones on the left looking dangerous every time they received possession. It was little wonder that, at times, the frantic pace of play occasionally caught out the experienced midfield pair Banfield and Samra as they battled to control a swarm of red shirts around them. Onwards pressed the Arthurians. A run from Jake Raine was blocked on the edge of the box with a superb last-ditch tackle, Maltese highlighted his pristine close control, jinking inside from the right before his curling left foot delivery, probably a cross, missed everyone before clipping the outside of the far post. Redhead then headed over as pressure built on the SAL. But the visitors remained a threat themselves, another break down their right wing saw Bowers again called to make a save, this time a routine one from a low struck shot. Tom Jones then cut in from the left before just over-hitting his through-ball to Redhead, the SAL then came within inches of taking the lead when their left winger cut inside only to drill his effort against the inside of the near post, the ball agonisingly rolling along the line before being cleared. It was truly breathless stuff, but in amongst all the excellent football there were, unfortunately, a couple of nasty challenges on As players that raised the heckles on the sidelines. It was a pair of Reptonians on the receiving end, striker Raine very lucky to walk away apparently unscathed as he was clattered into midway inside the SAL half but left-back Fraser Lane wasn’t so fortunate – he was felled by a sliding tackle as he raced down the wing and required lengthy treatment before very gingerly making his way around the ground to the dugouts, a nasty ligament sprain the initial diagnosis. Whether it was a response to these two incidents is doubtful, but once play resumed following the tackle on Raine, the Arthurian League quickly reasserted their authority and in the final fifteen minutes of the half scored three goals to take a firm grip on proceedings. The As had already served notice several times of their potency down the right and they threatened again - Maltese and Banfield combining beautifully to create another chance that ended with a well-struck shot blocked by the keeper at the near post. But two minutes later the SAL were powerless to prevent the opener with Maltese again dictating play: collecting possession on the right wing, he waited until the perfect moment to slip the ball through for the storming Ollie Light to run onto, calmly round the keeper and slide in from a tight angle. It was the perfect moment to unleash a ‘Charge of the Light Brigade’ quip but clearly the squad had already been traumatised by the numerous, rather tedious, Tom Jones ‘gags’ in the whatsapp group leading up to the game and so nobody bothered. It probably would have been lost on half a league side anyway… Onwards rode the Arthurians once more, Maltese again producing some magic before whipping a delicious cross into the box which Raine flicked just over the bar. With eight minutes of the half remaining Nicky Samra made way for Callum Holland to make his debut and three minutes later the As had their second, a superb cross from the left from Gus Shaw-Stewart – who had replaced the stricken Lane – was this time converted by Raine, who leapt to divert his header perfectly inside the near post. And then, a minute before the break, a touch of fortune as a strong run from Tom Jones saw him drive towards the penalty area only for the ball to run loose from a challenge and fall perfectly for Maltese to run onto, the Forest man smashing the ball into the near top corner with glee to round off a spectacular first forty-five minutes for him in an Arthurian League shirt. The message at the break was clear: maintain the high standards set and perhaps, for the first quarter of an hour at least, try to assert some kind of control on the game, to slow things down and maintain possession better. In fact, almost the exact opposite occurred, with the men in white beginning the second half in slightly sloppy fashion, too many long balls played with too much haste gifting possession back to the SAL. The visitors were largely unable to trouble Jonny Bowers in goal however, with Aliev and Langley at times looking almost regal at the back as they mopped up at the first signs of danger. There were a couple of scares, however, a low shot dragged just wide of the near post and then a much closer call as a cross from the right was headed back across goal from the far post, the ball bouncing off the top of the crossbar and behind with Bowers beaten. But with just over an hour played, the As extinguished any last vestiges of hope the SAL may have harboured when Maltese cut inside from the right to pick out Raine at the far post, the striker pulling off the back of his man and guiding a low volley just inside the near post before executing his trademark run to the nearest camera where several pre-rehearsed insta poses were coldly delivered. Waiting lensman Andy Nunn duly obliged and clicked away dutifully on his trusty 70-200mm although even he must be tiring of Raine’s schtick by now… With the result now beyond any doubt, the final half-hour served up rather meagre fayre. The As continued to hit too many long passes but, encouragingly, produced a strong final ten minutes, Craig Bonnar forcing a good save from the keeper with a strong run and shot, and Callum Holland, who enjoyed an excellent debut in midfield, nearly breaking through after some excellent work down the left, Gus Shaw-Stewart backing him up as the pair of them caused some anxious moments in the SAL defence. If the Old Etonian is to retire from the Rep team, it will have nothing to do with his physical capabilities – the seventy-five minutes he played here showcased all the energy and tireless workrate he has produced for many seasons. The final minute summed up the night for the SAL as they carved out one glorious final chance but, alas, the finish was lacking, the shot from six yards out at the far post almost landing in the Morrisons car park on the other side of the A1. Hot dogs and beer were served in the clubhouse after the game, the Arthurian League top brass purring like Cheshire cats at yet another thumping victory served up by their charges. This was a hugely encouraging first performance of the season for the As and there is undoubted potential for the side to grow stronger still as players return to the fold and closer bonds are formed with the latest additions. Exciting times lie ahead…Half a League, Half a League, Half a League onward…
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Goals from Craig Bonnar and Sam Thomas gave the Arthurian League a winning end to their UEFA Regions Cup campaign in Finland, today.
The team bow out of the tournament, finishing 2nd in the group after Länsi-Vantaan Ylpeys (which translates as 'Pride of West Vantaa') overcame the Lisbon FA 2-0 to win the group and progress to the final tournament, and the Arthurians were already out of contention as they needed a win by 4 goals or more to stand a chance of nicking top spot, but the result shows that the team were in the mix, holding the two favourites from Finland and Portugal to creditable draws. Bonnar opened the scoring after fifteen minutes, converting Jake Raine's assist following a Harry Larke corner but Dāniels Geidāns levelled for Latvia just before the break. The AL's excellence at set-pieces shone through again in the second half when Andy Evans' free-kick was turned home by Sam Thomas for the winning goal. Jake Riley's superb overhead, hooked finish, three minutes into added time, ensured the Arthurian League Rep Team's UEFA adventure continues into the final game against Latvia on Wednesday.
After the team drew 3-3 with the Lisbon FA on Wednesday, the tournament hosts, Länsi-Vantaan Ylpeys, scored an impressive 5-1 win against the Latvian Amateur team. Before today's game, the Lisboan FA beat the Latvians 3-0 to eliminate them, and put themselves top of the group - for a few hours, at least. Today's game was a tight affair with the Arthurians holding out until 2 minutes before half-time when Aaro Nyholm turned home Kevin Nurmi's cross to put the Finns ahead. The second half was equally hard fought with both sides acquitting themselves well but it looked like the Arthurians were heading out of the tournament as the 4th official held up the board to indicate 5 minutes' added time. In a final throw of the dice, 'keeper Olly Bowles ventured forward for one final corner, but it was Harry Larke who got his head to the ball and, with the ball floating harmlessly wide of the post, Josh Riley who executed a dramatic overheard kick to hook the ball back into the goal. The players celebrated by running towards our favourite photographer, Andy Nunn, who has already produced five albums worth of photos of the tournament, and we're only half way through! In the final game, the team face already eliminated Latvia, needing a win by at least four goals to have any chance of progressing, while hoping either that Portugal and Finland draw in the late game. Arthurian League: Bowles - Thomas, Rolls, Evans, Beddows (Langley 62') - Larke, Banfield, Bonnar (Redhead 62'), S. Fetherston (J. Fetherston 62') - Riley ⚽, Raine  Goals from Jake Raine, Tommy Redhead and an own goal gave the Representative Team a point in their first game of the UEFA Regions Cup in Finland, today.
Raine was in the mix to force an own goal from Nogueira Silva ahead after only three minutes at the Myyrmäki Stadium and it was looking good when he scored for himself after 32 minutes, but the Portuguese came back strongly, pulling 1 back within 3 minutes. Half-time: Arthurian League 2 - 1 Lisbon FA A double substitution on 38 minutes followed by a third change at half-time worked wonders for Lisbon who equalised on 48 minutes through substitute Bastos before another sub, Botas - who replaced Gavino, scorer of the first Lisbon goal - put the Portuguese ahead on 56 minutes. Five minutes later Jake Fetherston and Tommy Redhead entered the fray in place of Craig Bonnar and Sam Fetherston - what turned out to be a crucial change. At time appeared to be up for the Arthurians, Redhead popped up to level with five minutes remaining. The next game is on Saturday at 5pm. We will share a live feed if there is one! Arthurian League: Bowles - Thomas, Beddows, Evans, Rolles - Bonnar (J Fetherston, 61), Banfield, Larke (Langley, 88) - S Fetherston (Redhead, 61 ⚽), Riley, Raine ⚽.  Match report by David Lederman
Photograph by Andy Nunn The Arthurian League Representative XI created their own small slice of history on Sunday afternoon when a goal from Old Forester Ben Hale nine minutes from the end of extra-time earned the Whites a 1-0 win over the West Yorkshire League in the final of the FA Inter League Cup at Lincoln City’s LNER Stadium. The victory, coming at the first attempt for the Arthurian League in this biennial competition, ensures that they will now go on to represent England in the UEFA Regions Cup in Finland this summer. This victory was all the more remarkable given the rather extraordinary circumstances surrounding the Arthurians’ progress to the final. Having been defeated 2-0 by the Herts Senior County League in the semi-finals at Hendon FC in mid-March, manager Billy Jenkins and League Secretary Jon Hunter had assumed dreams of silverware had been dashed for the season, only for the FA to later discover that Herts had fielded an illegible player in the tie. With just over ten days to the final, the Arthurian League were reinstated and suddenly the management duo had to prepare a squad to travel north on the Bank Holiday weekend. Understandably, a number of players were unable to make the trip, with the entire contingent of Reptonians, this season’s League and Cup double winners, absent. Despite this, a strong squadron of sixteen met bright and early at Kings Cross station for the two-hour train journey north, followed by a short walk to the Lincoln stadium, a number of League officials and supporters in tow. Conditions were perfect and, for almost the first time this year, a strong, warming sun greeted the players as they finally made their way out onto the pristine turf to warm up – the kick-off having been delayed by fifteen minutes due to West Yorkshire’s coach getting delayed in heavy traffic due to "Truckfest" on the way to the ground. Manager Billy Jenkins was able to rely on Brentwoods keeper Olly Bowles and a strong back four with young Sam Thomas on the right, Charlie Rolls on the left and the two Beddows brothers in the middle, Ant and Ashley. Skipper Pete Brooking returned to the midfield alongside Josh Banfield – fresh from completing the London Marathon in three hours – whilst the front four, shorn of the Arthurian League’s leading scorer Josh Riley, saw Etonian Gus Shaw-Stewart on the right, Jake Fetherston on the left and Craig Bonnar in behind Sam Fetherston up front. Five substitutes were named, including Foresters pair Ben Hale, who knew the ground well having spent three years at University in the city, and Tayo Felstead. Given the lack of proper preparation for the game, and the number of players missing from the squad, it would have been easy for the Arthurian League side to consider themselves underdogs and fear a tricky start against a West Yorks side that had scored eight goals and conceded only two on their run to the final. Instead, however, the men in white settled quickly and dominated the opening twenty-five minutes’ action. Inside two minutes a swift move down the right freed Sam Fetherston and his pull back saw Craig Bonnar’s low shot across goal brilliantly saved by the Yorks keeper, who flung out his right leg to divert the effort wide of the post. The next chance arrived soon afterwards via a set-piece, Ash Beddows turning a corner back towards goal only for the ball to rebound back off the post. The Yorkshire side eventually managed to compose themselves and enjoy a brief spell of possession but they soon found themselves under pressure once more, Jake Fetherston and Gus Shaw-Stewart dominating down the right and causing consistent problems for the over-worked Yorks left-back. Such was the dominance of the Arthurians at this stage that it forced a change in tactics from the opposition, with Yorkshire dropping deeper and content to play on the counter. The oceans of space down both flanks that Jake Fetherston and Shaw-Stewart had previously enjoyed were squeezed and the play became far more even, although a trio of bookings from the men in maroon highlighted which of the two teams was enduring the greater frustration. The two Beddows brothers were now in the action and asked to tidy up a number of balls over the top but they did so with the minimum of fuss, keeper Olly Bowles with little to do in the opening half-hour. Sam Thomas, who enjoyed an almost faultless game at right-back, grew frustrated that play wasn’t being switched quicker across the back, but his defensive focus remained razor sharp as he covered behind the two centre halves superbly to clear a dangerous loose ball inside the Arthurian penalty area. The final act of the first half saw the Yorkshire side build up play well and one of the two strikers turn adroitly on the edge of the box only to produce a weak final effort that was comfortably held by the Arthurians keeper. The half-time whistle signalled a familiar situation for the men in white, with the blank scoresheet failing to recognise the superiority of their play. In the quarter-finals against the Thames Valley League a 0-0 half-time score ended in a 1-0 win; in the semis against Herts County, two late goals produced a 2-0 defeat. Both times the Arthurians had been the better side, but the lack of a cutting edge was clear to see, an ounce more composure in the final third all that was lacking. Manager Billy Jenkins rallied the troops at the break without changing any personnel – wary no doubt of the prospect of extra-time and the need to martial his resources carefully given the piercing sun and onset of fatigue that would surely arrive as the second half wore on. But once again the Arthurians made a fine start to the half, on the attack from the first whistle and carving out another chance as one low cross missed everyone inside the box before Sam Fetherston’s shot was deflected just wide. This time the opposition recovered and the next ten minutes proved rather scrappy, neither side able to find their rhythm, the game devoid of goalmouth incident. But on the hour mark the first of several magnificent interventions from Brentwoods keeper Olly Bowles ensured that the score line remained blank. A swift counter saw the ball slipped between the two centre-halves, Ant Beddows momentarily appearing as if he was going to haul down the striker before thinking better of it. As the forward raced through a goal seemed certain, but Bowles narrowed the angle to perfection, stayed big and blocked the shot, only for the rebound to be turned back across the six yard box and somehow blasted over the bar with the goal gaping. Billy Jenkins had seen enough and began to ring the changes with skipper Pete Brooking the first to make way, Henry Langley coming on in midfield in a bid to regain control of the ball. Five minutes later and Ben Hale came on for a tiring Sam Fetherston, who appeared exhausted but frustrated to be making way. The changes appeared to have the desired effect however, as the Arthurians began to regain the momentum and the side finished the match much the stronger of the two sides, despite the finishing touch continuing to elude them. Hale found himself clean through down the right but seemed caught in two minds whether to drive towards goal or cross for a teammate, in end doing neither and producing a tame chip straight into the keeper’s arms. Charlie Rolls then clipped a perfect ball over the top down the left that ended with Josh Banfield – who must have covered every blade of grass on the pitch twice over – clipping a shot inches wide of the far post. He tried something similar moments later but again the effort flew wide of the mark. Corners were forced, the keeper blocked one shot, a second was deflected just over the angle of post and bar. The Arthurians simply couldn’t find a way through. Just as in the first half, Yorkshire produced a late scare, Ant Beddows forced to back-pedal in a one-on-one situation but the experienced Carthusian did just enough to put the striker off and the final effort was mishit, the ball dribbling wide of goal. Extra-time then followed, with both sides now permitted to make an extra change – something of a necessity given the shattered looks on the faces of most of the players as they gathered in the middle of the pitch to listen to some final words of encouragement from the coaching staff. Tayo Felstead replaced the tiring Gus Shaw-Stewart on the right for the Arthurians with Billy Jenkins keeping his final substitution in hand. The first period of extra-time began with the best chance of the entire match falling to West Yorkshire. Yet again it was Brentwoods keeper Olly Bowles to the rescue for the Arthurians as he produced two outstanding saves in quick succession, spreading himself to block another one-on-one before somehow reacting to divert the follow up shot over the bar from point blank range as the ball was cut back across goal. The tension was almost unbearable, with even those on the sidelines now perspiring furiously as the sun continued to beat down. The Arthurians responded with a chance of their own, Banfield’s effort from the edge of the box well saved by the Yorks keeper down to his left. With ten minutes remaining the Arthurian League made their final change of the game, Will Payne replacing an exhausted Sam Fetherston and the Harrow man looked lively from the off, nearly causing a mistake from the keeper as he challenged for a high ball which eventually ran loose inside the penalty area. It would prove a short-lived reprieve for the northerners. Moments later the Arthurian League produced a swift, incisive move down their right, Craig Bonnar exchanging passes and driving towards the byline before looking up and delivering a pinpoint cross beyond the keeper and into the path of the fast-arriving Ben Hale, who gleefully slid in to fire home from five yards out. The bench emptied and chaotic celebrations ensued. The final eight minutes were seen out with relatively little fuss, the men in white managing to keep the opposition at arms’ length, despite having to defend a couple of corners in process. The final whistle signified a successful and remarkable end to a journey that had begun with a come-from-behind win over the Amateur Football Combination in the cold at Dorking Wanderers FC in late January and ended with a gruelling two-hour battle against a valiant West Yorkshire side in scorching sunshine at Lincoln City FC in May. Ant Beddows, a loyal and distinguished Rep Team servant over many seasons, was given the honour of accompanying Pete Brooking up to collect the magnificent trophy from the FA Representative and the celebrations could begin in earnest – all expertly captured, as ever, by the camera lens of Andy Nunn. This was a superb effort from all involved at the Arthurian League and especially the sixteen players who gave their all in tough conditions on the day. The considerable reward, in addition to the trophy, is a trip to Finland as the official representatives of the English FA later this summer in the UEFA Regions Cup. England have been drawn in a group alongside the hosts, Portugal and Latvia with final dates of the tournament yet to be confirmed. Many congratulations to all involved on a historic achievement.  The League Representative Team will contest the final of the 2023-24 FA Inter-League Cup Final against the West Yorkshire Association League at Lincoln City F.C. on Sunday, 5 May, kicking-off at 2pm.
After losing the semi-final to the Herts Senior County League it seemed that the dream was over but the Herts League were removed for fielding an ineligible player and so the Arthurian League now have the chance to become England's amateur champions! In addition to the trophy at stake, there is a place in the UEFA Regions Cup 2024/25 for the winners, with the first round to played as a 4-team group in Finland next year.  The Arthurian League Representative XI’s hopes of glory in their first ever appearance in the FA Inter-League Cup were brought to a crashing end on Saturday evening when they were defeated 2-0 by the Herts Senior County League at Hendon FC in north London. Despite enjoying more of the ball in both halves and creating numerous half-chances, the Arthurians couldn’t find a way past the Herts 'keeper and were made to pay for their profligacy in front of goal when their opponents struck twice with long-range efforts from the left in the final quarter of an hour. The disappointment at failing to reach the final, to be played at St George’s Park, and the opportunity to represent England against other European nations will linger long in the memory of all those involved. This was a game the Arthurian League could, and should, have won.
Nobody will have felt the stinging pain of this semi-final defeat more than manager Billy Jenkins and his two assistants, Nicky Samra and Jon Hunter. All three have poured considerable time and energy into ensuring the Arthurian League’s inaugural appearance in the Inter-League Cup proved a successful one. The fact that the competition is only played on a biennial basis should only serve to increase the team’s resolve to go one better in two years’ time. Following a narrow but relatively comfortable 1-0 victory over the Thames Valley League in the quarter-final, nobody in the Arthurian League camp was labouring under the impression that this would prove another stroll in the park. The two sides have met a couple of times in recent years and fixtures have always proved highly competitive. Indeed, the Herts League claimed the impressive scalp of the Southern Amateur League in the first round of this year’s competition with a penalty shootout win following a 2-2 draw in ninety minutes. The Herts League also have considerable pedigree in the event, having reached the final back in 2014, losing the final away to the Isle of Man League. For this semi-final, played on the artificial surface at Hendon FC, manager Billy Jenkins was able to name a very similar squad to last time. There were several changes required in defence, with Ant Beddows and Sam Thomas (Carthusians) and Fraser Lane (Reptonians) unable to travel. Assistant manager Nicky Samra started at right-back with Brentwood’s Charlie Rolls at left-back and Ed Jackson partnering Andy Evans in the middle – making it three Reptonians out of four. Otherwise the side had a very familiar feel to it, the only other change from the starting XI in the quarter-final the addition of Tommy Redhead to the number ten role, skipper Craig Bonnar moving up front in place of the injured Jake Raine. Among the substitutes, Etonian Gus Shaw-Stewart deserved special mention as he travelled having already played for the Old Etonians in their League fixture against the Carthusians earlier in the day. Conditions in north London for the 6.45pm kick-off were excellent with a light breeze and the pitch offering an immaculate surface for the players to get the ball down and play – in stark contrast to the rather heavy, uneven conditions on the grass at Corinthian-Casuals last time out. Both sides threatened early on, skipper Bonnar enjoyed the first chance of the game, smashing a shot just over the bar from the right side of the penalty area, before keeper Ollie Bowles was given his first test of the evening, a relatively straightforward shot that he claimed comfortably. The Arthurians gradually began to impose themselves on their opponents, switching play confidently from side to side and unafraid to test the full-backs with a few direct balls down the channels. With fifteen minutes played, and the men in white clearly in the ascendency, one of the defining moments of the evening arrived. An excellent spell of possession inside the Herts half saw the ball worked out to the left and fed into Josh Riley. The Repton man, leading scorer in the Premier Division, appeared to have executed his effort to perfection, turning inside before lashing a shot towards the top corner. Somehow, the Herts keeper flung out a hand and the slightest touch of his fingertips proved sufficient to divert the ball onto the inside of the far post, the ball rolling along the goal line before being cleared to safety. Although they weren’t to know at the time, it would prove the closest the hosts would come to scoring all night. Arthurian dominance continued in both possession and territory but the hosts were forced into an early change when centre-back Ed Jackson was forced off with a knee injury, his persistent tendonitis flaring up despite considerable rest in the build up to the tie. Alleynian Jake Fetherston was the replacement, requiring a re-jig from the manager, several players switching positions, including skipper Craig Bonnar who now dropped back into the number ten role. But the Arthurians remained on top, despite the disruption to the starting formation. Steady pressure down the left saw corners and free-kicks won, but despite some excellent deliveries from Charlie Rolls, the Herts League defended stoutly. The opposition had, to this point, threatened very sporadically, their two front men rather starved of possession but looking lively whenever the ball was in their vicinity. On the half-hour mark they bared their teeth for the first time however, the striker holding the ball strongly on the left under pressure before whipping a cross in to the near post, his partner’s flick header flying just wide of the far post. But having escaped, the Arthurians were then dealt a second unfortunate blow when Nicky Samra was kicked strongly from behind and jarred his knee on landing. Although he tried to continue, manager Billy Jenkins was forced to make his second change, Shaw-Stewart a straight swap at right-back. This time the disruption to the hosts’ play was noticeable, with the final fifteen minutes of the half a far more even contest between the two teams. For the first time on the night, play was now concentrated inside the Arthurian half, although the hosts defended diligently. Herts created one half-chance, a corner was cleared but a strong run down the left ended with a decent low shot that Bowles did well to get down to. The Arthurians launched a similar attack down their left, the resulting cross-shot evaded the keeper but there was nobody at the far post to apply the finishing touch. Having already been forced into two changes, there was no sense in manager Jenkins making any further alterations at the break. Just as in the previous round against the Thames Valley League, the Arthurians remained confident that perseverance and a continuing commitment to get the ball down and play would eventually bring the desired rewards. And for much of the second half, there seemed little reason to doubt this optimism. The Arthurians continued to out-pass their opponents, although the opening quarter of an hour brought very few chances. But as players began to tire and the game became more open, so the men in white began to find chinks in their opponents’ armour. Rolls whipped in another delicious cross from the left only for Tommy Redhead’s strong header to be well claimed by the keeper. The Arthurians then concocted their best move of the game, a flowing counter that involved one and two-touch football down the middle of the pitch only for Riley to fire his final effort just over the bar. Harry Larke then provided another fine cross with his left foot, Sam Fetherston again just too high with his attempted header. As the game ticked into the final fifteen minutes, a goal seemed inevitable. And it duly arrived, but at the wrong end. Herts worked the ball down their left but there seemed little sense of danger until the winger, the main threat on the night, turned and, finding himself in five yards of space, chanced his arm and smashed a low shot into the far bottom corner from over thirty yards out, keeper Ollie Bowles beaten by the sheer power and accuracy of the effort. Seven minutes later, with the Arthurians still reeling from the concession of the first goal, the tie was put beyond them with a second, almost identical strike from the left. This time the ball was worked into the area but the strike was just as true, just as precise, Bowles unsighted as the ball sped past him into the far corner. Harrow winger Will Payne was immediately summoned off the bench but it proved too little, too late, the Herts side seeing out the final ten minutes under some pressure but without conceding anything approaching a clear chance. There was little to reproach the Arthurian side for, another strong display that only lacked the finishing touch proving not quite enough against a decent Herts League side. Herts must now wait a week to discover who they will face in the final at St George’s Park in the final. For the Arthurian League, the wait for their next shot at success will go on a little while longer. FA INTER-LEAGUE CUP QUARTER-FINAL PLAYED AT CORINTHIAN-CASUALS F.C., TOLWORTH Match report from David Lederman (Old Harrovians)  The Arthurian League Representative side sealed their place in the semi-finals of the FA Inter-League Cup with a narrow, but thoroughly deserved, 1-0 win over the Thames Valley Premier League at Corinthian-Casuals FC on Saturday afternoon. In a tight, scrappy encounter played on a heavy pitch in southwest London, the Arthurian side enjoyed most of the possession and created the clearer chances to score, but had to wait until the 72nd minute to turn their superiority on the field into a lead on the scoreboard, Alleynians winger Sam Fetherston slotting home from close range following a spell of sustained pressure. Thames Valley created little throughout and having fallen behind never looked capable of forcing extra-time. Victory earns the Arthurian League a semi-final tie against the Herts Senior County League on the evening of March 16th with the venue to be confirmed in due course. Following a hard-fought 2-1 win over the Amateur Football Combination in the previous round, the Arthurian League XI, led as always by the ever-enthusiastic Old Forester Billy Jenkins, anticipated an equally tough challenge in a first ever meeting against the Thames Valley League. Thames had defeated the Dorset Premier League 2-0 in the first round in a game played at Henley Town FC, with the vast majority of their squad for Saturday’s tie drawn from two of the top five teams in the Premier Division: leaders Westwood Wanderers and fifth-placed Holyport Reserves.  For the Arthurians, manager Billy Jenkins was forced to make five changes to his sixteen-man squad from the win over the AFC. Brentwoods skipper Peter Brooking missed out through injury, although he still made the effort to support the side on the day, with Forest duo Tayo Felstead and Harry Ellis also absent, as well as Kimboltonian Henry Langley and Carthusian Ashley Beddows – although Anthony Beddows was fit to take his place alongside Reptonian Andy Evans at the heart of the back four. Old Alleynian Sam Fetherston started on the right wing, Premier Division leading scorer Josh Riley of the Old Reptonians on the left, with Johnians skipper – and the man entrusted with the armband on the day – Craig Bonnar ling up just behind striker Jake Raine, another Old Reptonian. Chigwellian Josh Banfield and Brentwoods’ Harry Larke formed the central midfield pairing with Carthusian Sam Thomas at right-back and Reptonian Fraser Lane at left-back. Keeper Ollie Bowles was the second Brentwoods player in the starting lineup, with the five substitutes featuring two Reptonians, an Alleynian, a Harrovian and another Brentwoods player. Conditions down in Tolworth for the 3pm kick-off were about as good as could be expected, with the game kicking off in bright sunshine and the pitch soft but clearly playable, Corinthians’ groundstaff having worked tirelessly to ensure the tie would go ahead as planned. Perhaps understandably, as both sets of players became accustomed to the conditions underfoot, the Arthurians made a slightly nervy start to the encounter, with both the centre-backs Evans and Beddows finding themselves under early pressure from a high press that almost yielded a couple of early chances for the opposition. Keeper Ollie Bowles was alert to any danger however and, as the half progressed, it was the men in white who began to impose themselves on the game – just as the manager had asked them to do prior to kick-off.  The Arthurians enjoyed particular success down their left flank with full-back Fraser Lane and Josh Riley reprising their Repton partnership to great effect, several flowing moves causing problems for the over-worked Thames Valley right-back. A free-kick was won in a dangerous position midway inside the visitors’ half but disappointingly curled well beyond the players waiting inside the box, a couple of corners also came to nothing. Riley attempted a spectacular overhead kick from close to the penalty spot but only succeeded in firing the ball straight up in the air, Fetherston saw his effort from the right well saved by the Thames Valley keeper. It was almost one-way traffic for the remainder of the half, with the Arthurian defence snuffing out what little threat they faced, the midfield duo of Banfield and Larke controlling the middle of the pitch. Larke, in particular, began to grow in stature as the half progressed, confidently striding forwards with the ball at his feet and spreading play out wide whenever possible. Perhaps the only disappointing aspect of the first half was the failure to carve out a decisive opportunity: Bonnar, Raine, Fetherston and Larke himself all had efforts at goal prior to the break but either fired wide or were foiled by Thames Valley keeper Will Cullum, who was by now the busiest man on the pitch. In contrast, his opposite man Ollie Bowles had become almost a spectator, such was the level of protection afforded to him by his teammates.  Management duo Billy Jenkins and Nicky Samra kept the same eleven for the start of the second half, with fairly unanimous agreement among the squad that the game was plainly there to be won, Thames Valley having barely created a chance of note in the opening forty-five minutes. But, disappointingly, the opening twenty minutes of the second half proved incredibly scrappy, with the previous dominance of those in white replaced by a fairly even, if remarkably dour midfield battle. Thames Valley dropped into a slightly deeper block and competed gamely in the middle of the pitch, with the result that neither keeper was really tested in this period. The Arthurian back four, led by the centre-backs Evans and Beddows, remained comfortable and it was almost impossible to see how the opposition would score. But the lack of any sustained pressure from the Arthurians was now a concern and manager Billy Jenkins had seen enough. Off came striker Jake Raine, who had earlier taken a knock, and, shortly afterwards, the skipper Craig Bonnar. In their stead came Reptonian Tommy Redhead and Harrovian Will Payne, who took his place on the right wing, Josh Riley moving up front and Sam Fetherston over to the left. It was at this point in the game that as players on both sides began to tire, space began opening up and, just as in the first half, it proved to be the men in white who took advantage.  A corner from the left provided the first indication that a breakthrough may be forthcoming, substitute Tommy Redhead swivelling to fire home from close range, but the joy was short-lived – an immediate flag from the linesman ruling out that effort. But moments later the Arthurians did find the back of the net and this time it counted. Winger Sam Fetherston cut inside the centre-half on the left of the area, working himself an inch of space, before producing a low sidefoot finish. Although the shot wasn’t the most powerful, the Thames Valley keeper made a hash of the save, somehow allowing the ball to squirm under his body and into the net.
Fewer than twenty minutes remained but the visitors never looked capable of finding an equaliser. Instead, it was the Arthurian League who poured forwards, Redhead seeing another effort well saved by the keeper, Payne enjoying plenty of space down the right and causing problems for his full-back. Although a definitive second goal continued to elude them, the Arthurians remained in full control and saw out the remainder of the tie with the minimum of fuss. The side are now one game away from a final at St George’s Park, but first they must overcome the Herts Senior County League on March 16th with the game taking place at Hendon FC. Attendance: 65 FA INTER-LEAGUE CUP ROUND 2 PLAYED AT DORKING WANDERERS F.C. Match report from Peter Brooking (Old Brentwoods)  Following on from the Arthurian Representation team’s success in the Argonaut Trophy 2022/2023 competition following wins against the Southern Amateur League and Amateur Football Combination. The team entered into the FA Inter-League Cup 2023/2024 campaign. The Cup is limited to National League System and feeder leagues and other leagues as decided by The FA. It was created with the intention of finding a winning league representative side to fly the flag for England in the UEFA Regions Cup. The Arthurian Representative Team began the 2024 year with a friendly match against Lloyds of London on a cold evening on the 10th January over at Barnet FC's ground. The Arthurian Team dominated the game and ended up successfully winning 4-2 which in truth could have been a far wider margin. This extended the team's undefeated run to three matches.  In the first round of the FA Inter-League Cup the team drew neighbours AFC (Amateur Football Combination). The Arthurian side routed the opposition 6-0 to win the Argonaut Trophy last season at Potters Bar Town FC. However they expected stronger opponents this time round. Management team including (Manager - Billy Jenkins, Assistant Coaches - Jon Hunter & Nicky Samra) had a big selection headache ahead of the key fixture. The team are fortunate to have a huge depth of quality throughout the entirety of the Arthurian League and to narrow it down to 16 players is never an easy task. The final squad included; Oliver Bowles (GK) (Old Brentwoods), Peter Brooking (C) (Old Brentwoods), Harry Larke (Old Brentwoods), Josh Banfield (Old Chigwellians), Will Payne (Old Harrovians), Henry Langley (Old Kimboltonians), Tayo Felstead (Old Foresters), Harry Ellis (Old Foresters), Nicky Samra (Old Reptonians), Josh Riley (Old Reptonians), Jake Raine (Old Reptonians), Ashley Beddows (Old Carthusians), Anthony Beddows (Old Carthusians), Sam Thomas (Old Carthusians), Craig Bonnar (Old Johnians). With 8 different teams represented throughout the squad, this again demonstrates the depth in quality of the league.  The AFC named a stronger side from the one in the Argonaut Trophy with a heavy presence from Dorkinians, Honourable Artillery Company and Wandsworth Borough. The tie was hosted at the Meadwoodbank Stadium, the home of Dorking Wanderers. On a cold windy night in Surrey with a crowd of around 75 in attendance (predominately local support for the AFC side) but with some loyal Arthurian away fans! The stage was set for a good battle between the sides and the game. AFC started the more strongly, letting the Arthurian side have the ball at the back and then when setting into midfield triggered the press to win the ball and break with numbers. The Arthurian side had a few half chances during the first half through a decent effort inside the box and then a great header from a corner although neither really troubling the goalkeeper. A vocal home crowd began to encourage the AFC side on and a flurry of decent chances led to the breakthrough with their number 9 (Craig Kingswell) cutting inside to bury the ball into the bottom corner. Some great saves from keeper Oliver Bowles kept the scoreline at 1-0, along with some good blocks from Peter Brooking and the Beddows brothers. The Arthurian side struggled to get a grip on the game with a few stray passes and Henry Langley picked up an unfortunate yellow card just before the half-time break. A few dubious 50/50's not going the Arthurian sides way led to some frustration going into the half.  Plenty of work was needed from Billy's boys in white and blue to get themselves back into the game. A strong team talk from the management team and the squad identified the key areas that were needed to improve on in order to turn the game around. Jake Raine came on for Henry Langley at half-time which was the first change made by the side. In the second half the Arthurian side game out flying and didn't let the AFC out of their half for the first ten minutes. Some superb pressing from the front 4 led to sloppy passing and some patient build-up allowed the Arthurian team to pin the AFC in and get some great opportunities off. Anthony Beddows came close with a header from one of many corners from the side that second half. Josh Riley had two half chances as he cut inside. Jake Raine along with the ever stronger midfield had a few decent chances too. With the Arthurian side knocking on the door it was important to not concede another with Oliver Bowles again alert to danger on a number of occasions. Sam Thomas went off injured with a hamstring problem which led to Tayo Felstead coming on in his place. Then in the 70th minute the Arthurian side finally got the goal that they deserved through a goal-line scrap with Jake Raine slotting the ball into the net. This proved to be the catalyst that the team needed to kick on and five minutes later fellow Reptonian Josh Riley followed suit slotting the ball into the bottom corner past the goalkeeper. A superb hard press from our front four of Jake Raine, Josh Riley, Craig Bonnar and Harry Ellis put the AFC side under great pressure. In a short space of time the game had effectively been flipped on its head.  Josh Riley and Jake Raine both had two half chances which missed, both of which would have been in with a chance of the Puskas Award!
The midfield pairing of Harry Larke and Josh Banfield had really stepped up a gear in the second half and dominated the midfield battle. Some great pressing, passing and desire to track back was personified by Josh Riley when their player was bearing down on goal and slid in to block a shot in the 85th minute. Oliver Bowles again was superb and denied the AFC twice in the final minutes of the game to keep the scoreline at 2-1. After a final nail-biting few minutes the referee blew the fulltime whistle and the comeback was complete. A great game for the neutrals with the Arthurian side progressing to the next round. But it was close and a resilient AFC pushed the Arthurian side to the very end. A quarter final home tie awaits the Arthurian side against the winners of Thames Valley Premier League vs Dorset Premier League. The quarter final tie will take place around the 17th/24th of February.  This Saturday the Arthurian League representative team - proudly led by Old Forester, Billy Jenkins - makes its FA Inter-League Cup debut against the Amateur Football Combination. The game will be played at the Surrey FA's headquarters in Dorking - also home to National League Dorking Wanderers - with a 6pm kick-off. We would love to see as many of you there as can make it to cheer the team on! If they win, the team face three more games in the bid to become the Amateur champions of England and earn the right to represent England in the UEFA Regions Cup! The Amateur Football Combination versus The Arthurian League How to get there South West Trains services depart London Waterloo at 24 minutes past each hour, arriving at Dorking (main) station 50 minutes later. The station is a 15 minute walk from the ground. Return services depart Dorking at 32 minutes past each hour, arriving at London Waterloo 54 minutes later. Unfortunately, first class accommodation is not available on any of these services. Club Photos Wanted Please could clubs attach any team pictures which they would like to appear on their club homepage on this website.
 After the FA Cup, the oldest knock-out competition in British Football is The Arthur Dunn Cup. It carries the name of Old Etonian Arthur Tempest Blakiston Dunn (1860-1902), one of the finest footballers of his generation who won five England caps and was the last amateur captain of the national team. In addition to playing for Old Etonians, including in the 1882 and 1883 FA Cup Finals, Dunn also played thirty-two times for Corinthians, scoring twelve goals. In 1901 not long before he died suddenly at the age of just forty-two, Dunn had put forward the idea of an Old Boys cup competition, no doubt mindful that the dominance of the Public Schools in the FA Cup had been broken, and the Arthur Dunn Cup was born in 1903 as a lasting memorial. The first President of the competition was Arthur Fitzgerald Kinnaird, 11th Lord Kinnaird (1847-1923), who had played alongside Dunn as the Captain of Old Etonians. Kinnaird played in a remarkable nine FA Cup Finals, and was on the winning side five times with Eton and the Wanderers. He was later President of the Football Association, and such was his contribution that in 1911 he was presented with the FA Cup itself.
Read the rest of David Bauckham's article at https://dbauckham.exposure.co/old-school-ties and show your gratitude by voting for David in this year's Football Supporters' Federation Annual Awards at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/fsf-awards-2016.  By DAVID BAUCKHAM | INFOOTBALL & SOCCER
... writes award winning photographer David Bauckham in his latest photoblog featuring AFA football. In this blog he visited the Philathletic Ground for one of amateur football's most famous fixtures: Old Harrovians vs Old Etonians. David also photographed the Arthur Dunn Cup Final in April and we are grateful to him for the many photographs of his which colour our site.
To view the full article visit his blogsite at https://dbauckham.exposure.co/the-philathletes.
Dates
First Round = on or before 12th November 2016 Second Round = on or before 17th December 2016 Quarter-Finals = on or before 6th February 2017 Semi-Finals = on or before 4th March 2017 The Final will be played on Saturday 22 April 2017 1. The dates for the 1st Round matches are on the site. Please note that all factors (e.g. school half terms/the dates for the opening rounds of the AFA Senior) were considered thus dates may only be changed with the prior agreement of the Hon Secretary. 2. Wherever possible, the ties should be played at the school of the home team on a grass pitch. 3. It has not gone unnoticed that there has been an unwelcome spate of last-minute withdrawals over the past few seasons - with scant regard for the traditions of the Competition and even less regard for the schools who kindly make catering arrangements or indeed those spectators who have made travel plans. Given the Arthur Dunn Cup is an invitational tournament, any Club unwilling/unable to fulfil its fixtures is liable to have its invitation to the competition revoked. Old Salopians Vs. Old Tonbridgians Arthur Dunn Cup Final By David Bauckham Infootball & Soccer, May 3rd, 2016  For twenty years following the formation of the Football Association in 1863, the game was largely dominated by the clubs formed by the gentlemen amateurs of the Home Counties, most of whom had been introduced to the game whilst pupils at the various public schools. Not surprisingly, it was these sides that also dominated the early years of the FA Cup from 1871.
Wanderers [originally founded as Forest FC in 1859] won the first two finals and a further three in the 1870s. Old Etonians meanwhile, played in six FA Cup finals, winning twice in 1878-79 and 1881-82, defeating Blackburn Rovers on the latter occasion. Rovers had been the first provincial side to reach the Final, but the creeping threat from the North had been coming: Sheffield had been quarter-finalists three times; whilst both Nottingham Forest (twice) and Darwen had been semi-finalists. Read the rest of David Bauckham's article at https://dbauckham.exposure.co/arthurian-legend.  The 4 teams for the Division 5 playoffs were confirmed today.
The 4 teams for the Division 5 playoffs were confirmed today. They are as follows: Old Bancroftians (1) and Old Merchants Taylors (2) from Division 5 North. Old Oundelians (1) and Old Tonbridgians (2) from Division 5 South. By way of reminder, the top 2 teams from each section face each other (the top team in the North plays the 2nd placed team in the South and vice versa thus it is Old Bancroftians (1N) vs. Old Tonbridgians (2S) whilst Old Oundelians (1S) face Old Merchant Taylors (2N) ) with the 2 winners playing for the right to call themselves the Division 5 champions. Please note that in a new twist to the promotion chase, the semi-finals will be over 2 legs.  The OAFC Morris Dancing quintet strut their funky stuff after scoring the winning goal OAFC win LOB Challenge Cup Final with gritty display
Many congratulations to the Old Aldenhamians who today erased the bitter pain of their defeat against Queen Mary in the 2014 Final by beating Hampstead Heathens to win the LOB Challenge Final at the University of Hertfordshire. There were admittedly few moments of samba football but as Allardyce/Pulis will tell you, no-one remembers the losers - the result is all that matters. Very well done to them. Whilst writing, may we send good luck to Old Carthusians III in their LOB Junior Final on April 16. More to follow – not least a full explanation from Penelope Pitstop of the Arthurian League Committee who managed to confuse Huntingdon/Hatfield and as a result missed the match today.  The squad for the ALRT's match against Lloyds of London has been announced - 3 surprise new debutants
At the traditionally packed press conference, Manager Nick Evans announced the squad for the Arthurian League's Representative Team. When Eyebrows were raised at the composition of the squad (no Tonbridgians at all, no Baby Beddows, no Alex Robinson, several other stalwarts missing), Evans replied that this was due to the demands of the Forest v Tonbridge clash in the Premier Division together with the general injury crisis affecting the ALRT squad. However, Evans then revealed that he would be handing debuts to Messrs Lawrence, Moss and Hillgrove from the Old Alleynians. Having personally been a witness to their giant killing brilliance (in a pulsating Arthur Dunn quarter-final) Nick admitted that he had no qualms about the Alleynian Musketeers being able to make the step up. More worrying for AL observers was the suggestion that Assistant Manager Billy "Billotelli" Jenkins would be bringing his kit for a cameo appearance. Some thought this was as bad as naming Lord Mufty as a substitute (as had happened when the ALRT played the SAL) but Evans dismissed those fears with characteristic elegance. "Shevjenko", he argued, would not be distracted if the opposition lined the pitch with cupcakes - as had happened to Lord Mufty when the ALRT played the SAL. In case you wish to attend, the match details are as follows: Ford Sports & Social Club Aldborough Road South, Newbury Park, Ilford IG3 8HG Ko: 7.30pm The squad is as follows:- Jack Francis – Old Foresters (GK) Billy French - Old Foresters Tom Redmayne – Old Etonians Rob Hawkin – Old Salopians Andy Moss – Old Alleynians Jack Haverson - Old Foresters Miles Hillgrove - Old Alleynians Daryl Noble - Old Foresters Tom Kelly - Old Salopians (Capt) Fred Richardson – Old Harrovians Tim Downes – Old Carthusians Josh Lawrence – Old Alleynians Lachie Shaw Stewart – Old Etonians Char Avelle - Old Foresters The Arthurian League Rep Team make another dramatic comeback to beat their AFC counterparts
O ye of little faith. You really should know better by now. At half time, the Arthurian League Representative Team were 2-0 down to the AFC. Outplayed, out-fought and out-thought, all hope was seemingly gone, Once they got back into the dressing room, heads were bowed as no-one (including joint managers Messrs Evans and Jenkins) dared look up in case they caught the eye of Lord Mufty-Bufty (the League's chairman who is even more revered than Kim Jong-un) who was in the corner quietly fuming over his half-time cup of tea and Eccles Cake. In the midst of (and despite) this sombre atmosphere, the joint managers, showed their tactical acumen as they switched to a 3-3-3-1 formation which meant that Alex Robinson was moved "between the lines" allowing the ALRT's complement of dazzlingly pacy attacking midfielders to strut their stuff. 48 minutes later, the ALRT had completed a remarkable turnaround to win 3-2 with the winning goal coming deep into injury time from yes, you guessed it, Alex Robinson. As it happens, Robinson also scored the opening goal and made the assist for the second goal to write himself into Arthurian League folklore Dragging on his traditional post-match Gauloise, Jenkins explained how they had managed to orchestrate such a memorable comeback. "Well, it was quite simple really. Despite what the real gaffer (Lord Mufty) thinks, playing 2 up front isn’t a good idea. We went back to basics in the second half and that allowed us to get back in the game. The rest, as they say, was different gravy. Ultimately however, it isn’t about me or Nick [Evans] but the players who were simply magnificent. They are a top top bunch". Hear hear. More to follow. Author: Roysters Press Agency  Lord Mufty-Bufty OMG. Is it true? Is he back?
Speculation is rife that the Arthurian League's occasionally acerbic columnist Sir Arthur Ian-League could be making a sensational return to this website. Having last been seen being dragged away to a secret alcohol free, no smoking, mineral water only torture chamber in NW7 4HR by the ruthless Lord Mufty-Bufty (the League's chairman) for the heinous crime of being "nasty" to those sensitive souls of Old [insert name of preferred team], we understand that Sir Arthur has since been released and is currently being debriefed by the intelligence services at their equally secret headquarters in WD6 3AJ. Whether this harrowing ordeal means he is the same man only time will tell of course but we will endeavour to bring you the full exclusive interview as soon as we are able to speak to him. Author: Press Association The squad for the Arthurian League's Representative Team has been announced
At a press conference in the heart of London's Mayfair, joint managers Nick Evans and William Jenkins announced the squad for the first of the Arthurian League Representative Team's game against the Amateur Football Combination which is due to take place on Wednesday November 4th. As Jenkins dragged on his traditional Marlborough Light, he explained that he and Evans share a common philosophy which is that of the Guardiola school of "tiki-taka with purpose". In case you were unaware, "Tiki-taka" is not an straight line 4-4-2 where the ball is moved forward as soon as possible but a style of play in which well-timed short passing and movement is maintained whilst in possession, moving the ball through midfield in intricate patterns of one and two-touch passing. Every player knows his role and the aim is to allow flair, creativity and expression. Put another way - even the league's famously hard to please Chairman (Lord Mufty-Bufty) is impressed and looking forward to the match! 1. Alex Azis (OMarbs) 2.Ant Beddows (Capt) (OCs) 3. Sam Baring (OEs) 4. Sam Colley (OTs) 5. Billy French (OFs) 6. Jack Francis (GK) (OFs) 7. Jack Haverson (OFs) 8. Jules Hornby (OCs) 9. Tom Kelly (OSs) 10. Conor Mitchell (OFs) 11.Tom Redmayne (OEs) 12. Alex Robinson (OFs) 13. Jack Rogers (OCs) 14. Nicky Samra (ORep) 15. Dan Sherry (OCholms) 16. Tom Spurling (OTs) Author: Roysters Press Agency  Details of the draw for the Arthur Dunn Cup 2015-2016 can be found here Holders: Old Carthusians Preliminary Round A. Old Millfieldians vs. Old Kimboltonians B. Old Alleynians vs. Old Amplefordians C. Old Merchant Taylors vs. Old Bancroftians First Round 1. Winner of Preliminary C vs. Old Radleians 2. Old Westminsters vs. Old Wykehamists 3. Old Carthusians vs. Old Foresters 4. Winner of Preliminary B vs. Old Sennockians 5. Old Eastbournians vs. Old Haileyburians 6. KCS Old Boys vs. Old Wellingburians 7. Old King’s Scholars vs. Lancing Old Boys 8. Old Etonians vs. Old Chigwellians 9. Old Reptonians vs. Old Wellingtonians 10. Old Oundelians vs. Old Cholmeleians 11. Old Tonbridgians vs. Old Epsomians 12. Old Harrovians vs. Old Malburians 13. Old Berkhamstedians vs. Old Brentwoods 14. Winner of Preliminary A vs. Old Aldenhamians 15. Old Haberdashers vs. Old Bradfieldians 16. Old Malvernians vs. Old Salopians Dates Preliminary Round = on or before 10th October 2015 First Round = on or before 7th November 2015 Second Round = on or before 19th December 2015 Quarter-Finals = on or before 6th February 2016 Semi-Finals = on or before 5th March 2016 The Final will be played on Saturday 23rd April 2016 Author: Arthur Dunn Cup Committee  Details of the league and the registration form are attached.
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