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Weston FC - Latest News

The latest club news

671 - 22/07/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw Results

Week 35 22 July 2009:

ï¿½1000 Gary Conterio M3251

ï¿½500Stuart Davies U2637

ï¿½250 Claire Gilmore N1408

ï¿½125 Mr Shepherd SB2856

71 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra: ï¿½1500 - number 1163 - no winner. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize rolls over/increases to ï¿½2000 ! !

670 - 15/07/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw - Winners - almost a clean sweep for Weston!

Week 34 15 July 2009:

ï¿½1000 J Mathewson WF0108

ï¿½500S Hall WF1522

ï¿½250 T Rouse X4588

ï¿½125 J Sinclair WC1414

60 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra: ï¿½1000 - number 3265 - no winner. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize rolls over/increases to ï¿½1500!

669 - 09/07/2009

OPEN FORUM

Weston-super-Mare Football club are to hold an open forum on Sunday 2nd August at 11am. Andy Gurney and the team Captain will also be present to answers supporters questions.

668 - 08/07/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw Results

Week 33 08 July 2009:

ï¿½1000 Phil Woodhead L1993

ï¿½500 A Warburton J1104

ï¿½250 J Mechan X1803

ï¿½125 Carol Vernon W4654

62 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra: ï¿½500 - number 2175 - no winner. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize rolls over/increases to ï¿½1000!

667 - 07/07/2009

Football Conference still looking for new Broadcasting Partner

The Board of the Football Conference after they met on 6th July extend this message to all member clubs.

ï¿½We remain upbeat in our efforts to secure a new broadcast partner. Though realistically no one should need reminding how difficult it is in the financial world at this time, the Football Conference continues to explore all possible avenues through our contactsï¿½

665 - 03/07/2009

WESTON KICK OFF AT HOME

Weston will kick off the new 2009/10 campaign at home to Staines Town on Saturday 8th August 2009. Then on Tuesday 11th the Seagulls will play their first away game at Basingstoke Town.

Other fixtures include Bath City on Boxing Day at home, with the reverse fixture being played at Bath City on 1st January 2010.

All the Seagulls fixtures are below. br />
Saturday 8 August Staines Town H

Tuesday 11 August Basingstoke Town A

Saturday 15 August Thurrock A

Tuesday 18 August Woking H

Saturday 22 August Dover Athletic A

Saturday 29 August Weymouth H

Monday 31 August Newport County A

Saturday 5 September Braintree Town H

Tuesday 8 September Worcester City H

Saturday 12 September Bromley A

Saturday 19 September Welling United A

Saturday 3 October St Albans City H

Saturday 17 October Lewes H

Saturday 24 October Maidenhead United A

Monday 26 October Worcester City A

Saturday 31 October Bishop's Stortford H

Saturday 7 November Staines Town A

Saturday 14 November Dover Athletic H

Saturday 28 November Chelmsford City A

Tuesday 1 December Hampton & Richmond Borough H

Saturday 5 December Eastleigh A

Saturday 19 December Thurrock H

Saturday 26 December Bath City H

Monday 28 December Woking A

Friday 1 January Bath City A

Saturday 9 January Bromley H

Saturday 16 January Braintree Town A

Saturday 23 January Lewes A

Saturday 30 January Dorchester Town H

Saturday 6 February St Albans City A

Saturday 13 February Eastleigh H

Saturday 20 February Basingstoke Town H

Saturday 27 February Havant & Waterlooville A

Saturday 6 March Maidenhead United H

Saturday 13 March Chelmsford City H

Saturday 20 March Dorchester Town A

Saturday 27 March Havant & Waterlooville H

Saturday 3 April Weymouth A

Monday 5 April Newport County H

Saturday 10 April Hampton & Richmond Borough A

Saturday 17 April Welling United H

Saturday 24 April Bishop's Stortford A

664 - 01/07/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw Results - Rollover Extra comes to Weston!

Week 32 01 July 2009:

ï¿½1000 C E Riley M1372

ï¿½500 Mr Butterworth SB3375

ï¿½250 Mr Connor SD1600

ï¿½125 H Cook X3095

63 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra: - number WA5438 - Mrs J Mcbride wins ï¿½1500! Next week Roll Over Extra Prize reverts to ï¿½500

663 - 26/06/2009

Weston pull off Williams signing coup

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have pulled off a signing coup with the capture of experienced defender Adrian Williams.

Centre-Back Williams joins the Seagulls following his departure from Swindon Town.

Reading born Adie, 37 started his career with the Royals as a youngster at the Elm Park Centre of Excellence and holds legend status with the Supporters of the Berkshire side after making 333 appearances for the club and scoring 18 goals as well as Captaining the side and spending a spell as caretaker Manager. He was also voted by Reading supporters on the Official Club Website as the best ever centre back to have represented the club and selected in the best ever Reading 11.

As well as the Royals Adie made 28 appearances in the Old Gold of Wolverhampton Wanderers, 35 appearances in the Sky Blue of Coventry City, 12 appearances for the Lions of Millwall and represented Wales on 13 occasions.

He joined Swindon Town in the Summer of 2006 and made 28 appearances at the County Ground including two spells as Caretaker Manager before deciding to bring the curtain down on a 19 year professional career in May 2008.

Williams has since been a First Team Coach for the Robins

662 - 24/06/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Winners!

Week 31 24 June 2009:

ï¿½1000 I Stark R3513

ï¿½500 Mr Brolan SC1773

ï¿½250 Mrs Charleson U1837

ï¿½125 S Perkins WE6422

65 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½1000 - number 3899 - no winner. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize rises to ï¿½1500

661 - 17/06/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw - Winners

Week 30 17 June 2009:

ï¿½1000 Mr Jason Taylor WE5964

ï¿½500 Mrs C East AB3025

ï¿½250 Mrs B Percy X3189

ï¿½125 Pooja Keshwalla WI2253

65 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½500 - number 2273 - no winner. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize rises to ï¿½1000

660 - 12/06/2009

Admission prices agreed for Friendlies

Entrance Prices for the forth-coming Friendly fixtures have been finalised. For the Exeter City (9th July) and Cheltenham Town (11th July), admission prices will be the same as League admission (Adults ï¿½10, Students and seniors ï¿½6.50, Under 16ï¿½s ï¿½2.).

Hinckley United (25th July) and Port Talbot (1st Aug), prices will be Adults ï¿½5, Students and seniors ï¿½3.50 and under 16ï¿½s ï¿½1.

Bristol Rovers (29th July) Prices for Adults ï¿½8, Students and seniors ï¿½6 and for under 16ï¿½s ï¿½2

Season Ticketï¿½s and Under 16ï¿½s cards will NOT be valid for these games and all must pay.

Students must provide a valid Student card.

The Associate directors also felt that an explanation of how they came to these prices was needed.

Exeter City and Cheltenham Town will be bringing a 1st XI team, for this they required we covered the cost of Expenses (Coaches, etc) and the remaining gate money is to be split 50/50. This is very similar to cup match rules.

Bristol Rovers will bring a team down of mixed 1st and Youth. But require the expense of a coach to be covered by us.

Hinckley United and Port Talbot have asked for nothing in return, so these games have been given a low admission price.

Food will be available on arrival and throughout all Fixtures.

659 - 10/06/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Winners

Week 29 10 June 2009:

ï¿½1000 D Bowman SA6706

ï¿½500 Joyce Evans V0504

ï¿½250 Mr Enright WF5623

ï¿½125 T McVittie J4839

60 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½2500 - number W2364 - winner M. Everitt. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize reverts back to ï¿½500>

658 - 08/06/2009

Match and Season Ticket Prices 2009/10

Weston-super-Mare Football Club have announced their Season Ticket and Match day prices.

To download a season Ticket application form, copy and paste the address below, and print off the form.

http://www.clubwebsite.co.uk/uploaded-documents/w/westonsupermarefootballclub-49i2vcufh2_nw.pdf

Match day prices for 2009/10 season are as follows :

Adults ï¿½10

Seniors & Students ï¿½6.50

Under 16's ï¿½2

Under 16's Free with seagulls club card

Please note Students must carry a valid student card.

657 - 03/06/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw - Results!

Week 28 03 June 2009:

ï¿½1000 Kevin Hands L6314

ï¿½500 Mrs. Lynch WB3852

ï¿½250 H Hackett SA1902

ï¿½125 Mr. R. Iles WA0894

57 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½2000 - number 0322 - no winner. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize increases to ï¿½2500>

656 - 30/05/2009

Friendly at Brislington added

In further news from the Woodspring Stadium Weston have added a game at Toolstation League Premier Division side Brislington to their programme of pre-season friendlies.

The game will take place on Thursday the 16th of July and kick-off at 7:30pm.

655 - 29/05/2009

Weston sign striker Llewellyn

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare are delighted to announce the signing of Josh Llewellyn from Team Bath.

The 22 year old striker who can count Derby County amongst his previous clubs joined the publicly funded "students" from Hayes in the Summer of 2006 and has made over 50 appearances for the now defunct university based side.

654 - 27/05/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Results

Week 27 27 May 2009:

ï¿½1000 Mr. Lenihan SD3603

ï¿½500 Mr. Hughes E2843

ï¿½250 Mr Carter N6102

ï¿½125 Mr. J. Williams WC2411

73 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½1500 - number 2115 - no winner. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize increases to ï¿½2000>

653 - 25/05/2009

Weston switch to Tuesday's

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have opted to play their mid-week home fixture's on a Tuesday evening in the 2009/2010 campaign.

The Seagulls switched to a Monday for mid-week fixture's last season and were rewarded with significantly better crowds than they had previously attracted on a Tuesday or Wednesday evening, however the Management and Playing Staff at the Club are understood to have requested an extra 24 hour's to recover from any knocks or scrapes sustained on the preceding Saturday.

It is understood that kick-off times will remain at 7:45pm.

651 - 24/05/2009

Weston to stick with Black and White

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have confirmed that they will be sticking with the black and white colour combination that they employed last season.

The 2008-2009 campaign saw the Seagulls celebrate their 60th anniversary and to mark the occasion the club opted to play in white shirts, black shorts and black socks, similar to the white shirts, black shorts and red socks combination that they wore in their inaugural season in 1948.

In another change the club have ditched the traditional "all yellow" away strip in favour of an "all royal blue" number.

652 - 24/05/2009

Somerset Premier Cup competition.

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have been handed a Bye in the First Round of the 2009/2010 Somerset Premier Cup competition.

Also handed Bye's are: Bristol Manor Farm, Keynsham Town, Frome Town, Larkhall Athletic, Taunton Town and Chard Town.

Tie's to be played week commencing 5th October 2009.

650 - 22/05/2009

1st TEAM SECRETARY REQUIRED

Weston-super-Mare AFC Ltd require a 1st team Secretary, to work closely with the manager, Blue Square South Conference and the Club.

This is an honoury position.

For more information please contact Helen on 01934 621618 during office hours.

649 - 20/05/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Results

Week 26 20 May 2009:

ï¿½1000 E Roberts G3172

ï¿½500 Dave Moore J5139

ï¿½250 Mr Ettinger J1172

ï¿½125 Janet Archer V2576

57 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½1000 - number 4532 - no winner. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize increases to ï¿½1500>

648 - 17/05/2009

Weston sign Sawyer from Gloucester

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare are delighted to announce the signing of goalkeeper Kevin Sawyer from Conference North newcomers Gloucester City.

Sawyer who joined The Tigers from Cirencester Town and won a Southern League Premier Division winners medal with Salisbury City has signed a two year contract at The Woodspring Stadium.

647 - 14/05/2009

League Two Robins and League One Pirates added to Seagulls friendly list.

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have added games against league two side Cheltenham Town and League one outfit Bristol Rovers to their programme of pre-season friendlies along with a visit from League of Wales team Port Talbot.

The Robins of Cheltenham visit the Woodspring Stadium on Saturday the 11th of July in a game that kicks off at 3pm whilst the Pirates of Bristol call on Wednesday the 29th of July in a game that kicks off at 7:45pm.

Port Talbot visit on Saturday the 1st of August in a 3pm kick-off.

The new league campaign in Blue Square Conference South starts on Saturday the 8th of August.

The fixture with Exeter City kicks off at 7:30pm and not 7:45pm as previously published.

The addition of the Cheltenham Town fixture means that the visit to Wessex League champions Poole Town has been pushed back a week to the 18th with the knock on effect meaning that the home fixture against Truro City scheduled for the 18th has been cancelled.

646 - 14/05/2009

Green, Wells and McKeever handed contracts at Weston. Willshire released.

Defender Michael Green, midfielder Ben Wells and winger Mark McKeever have all been handed contracts at Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare that will tie them to the Woodspring Stadium based club for the 2009/2010 campaign.

In the case of Green, the "Away Supporters" player of the year has committed his future to the Seagulls until the Summer of 2011.

Already under contract to Weston are Ashan Holgate, Marvin Brown, Craig Rand, Tomaso Parrinello, Scott Bartlett, Adrian Harris and Darren Mullings.

The non-contract trio of Marc McGregor Jack Compton and Scott Partridge have been invited to join their team mates for the commencement of pre-season training on the 2nd of July.

It is understood that Partridge's future will depend largely on potential plans to relocate to the local area.

The only player to head through the exit door at the Woodspring Stadium is former Bristol Rovers defender Ben Willshire (pictured).

645 - 13/05/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Results

Week 25 13 May 2009:

ï¿½1000 Mr Alan De Looze J0333

ï¿½500 Patrick Braithwaite WI2082

ï¿½250 Alan Talbot SA3082

ï¿½125 Mrs D Hibbert K2487

73 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½500 - number 1248 no winner. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize increases to ï¿½1000>

644 - 12/05/2009

League One Grecians in return visit to the Woodspring Stadium

Exeter City F. C., newly promoted to Coca Cola Football League One will be the first opponents of the season for Weston-super-Mare F. C. as they start their build up to the new campaign in Blue Square Conference South.

It is believed that the game on Thursday the 9th of July (7:30pm Kick-Off) will also be the Devon based Grecians first game time of the season as they prepare for life in the third tier of english football.

Last July Exeter and Weston both started their respective campaign's with a fixture at the Woodspring Stadium on July the 11th and a bumper crowd witnessed a full strength Exeter first team squad held to a 1-1 draw by the Seagulls in an entertaining game.

City Manager Paul Tisdale was understood to have been impressed by the playing surface and facilities at Weston and it is hoped that the game can be an annual fixture.

643 - 08/05/2009

RYAN NORTHMORE

Andy Gurney, First Team Manager at Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare today spoke on the future of Ryan Northmore.

Gurney commented "A mutal agreement has been made between myself and Ryan that from here on in his role within the football club will be solely as Youth Team Manager.

The role takes a lot of time and effort and it is a job that he does very well. It will enable him to focus fully on that and for me and him to work closely together in our respective roles."

642 - 06/05/2009

Gold Striker - Weekly Results

Week 24 6 May 2009:

ï¿½1000 Tim Fitzsimmons U2848

ï¿½500 R Studley WH5181

ï¿½250 P A Roberts WA4322

ï¿½125 Mr Bradshaw SD3878

78 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½2000 - number U4120 - Miss L Whitby. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize reverts back to ï¿½500>

641 - 02/05/2009

Seagulls announce friendly dates

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have announced a number of pre-season friendly fixture dates for the 2009-2010 campaign.

The Seagulls players report back in readiness for the new season on Thursday the 2nd of July and face their first game time on Saturday the 11th of July when they travel to Wessex Premier League Champions Poole Town in a game that kicks off at 3pm.

The first opponents at the Woodspring Stadium will be BGB Southern League Division One South and West Champions Truro City in another 3pm kick-off on Saturday the 18th of July.

It is expected that the White Tigers will include former Seagulls Scott Walker and Barry McConnell in their squad.

Weston travel to Cosham Street to take on Phil Bater's Mangotsdfield United (BGB Southern League Division One South and West) on Tuesday the 21st of July in a game that kicks off at 7:30pm before tackling Blue Square Conference North side Hinckley United at the Woodspring Stadium on Saturday the 25th of July at 3pm.

A number of other friendlies including matches against high profile league opposition are understood to be close to fruition and awaiting a final confirmation.

640 - 29/04/2009

Gold Striker - weekly results:Top 2 prizes scooped by Weston members!

Week 23 29 April 2009:

ï¿½1000 Mr H K Hendy WF0371

ï¿½500 Mrs M Foster WA2855

ï¿½250 Maureen Gibbons AB2025

ï¿½125 Mrs Gallop G5282

73 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½1500 - number 2568 - no winner. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize rolls over and increases to ï¿½2000

639 - 22/04/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Results - Winners

Week 22 22 April 2009:

ï¿½1000 Mark Snellgrove SB6389

ï¿½500 Angela Wallis M3449

ï¿½250 Jane Sangster Y4700

ï¿½125 A Hodson U3773

73 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½1000 - number 6708 - no winner. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize rolls over and increases to ï¿½1500

638 - 22/04/2009

Kite flys back to Rovers

Bristol Rovers have today re-called Alex Kite and will not feature in Weston's final game of the Campaign.

637 - 15/04/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw results

Week 21 15 April 2009:

ï¿½1000 Mr L Sheppard WA1021

ï¿½500 R Benjamin W4046

ï¿½250 S Brooks J6770

ï¿½125 A Eliis J1994

67 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½500 - number 2164 - no winner - next week Roll Over Extra Prize rolls over to ï¿½1000

636 - 09/04/2009

Interview with Emmanuel ï¿½Mannyï¿½ Williams

Emmanuel ï¿½Mannyï¿½ Williams joined Weston-super-Mare on loan from Woking in January and made a big impact in his time at the Woodspring Stadium.

The Sierra Leone born front man expected to be in the Seagulls squad for the trip to Hayes and Yeading but was prevented from playing after the Cards recalled him from his loan spell.

Manny still attended the game at Church Road to say his farewells and support the lads and after the game he took time out to speak to the Club Website.

Extracts of the Interview are as follows.:-

When did you find out that you where being re-called by Woking ?

E. W.: ï¿½I had training yesterday (Monday) and went in as normal.

I reported to the Gaffer that I was in the Weston squad to play at Hayes tonight (Tuesday) and he basically said no you are not because I have called you back and I want you to play for me.

Are you happy to be returning to Woking ?

E. W.: ï¿½I have mixed feelings.

I am sad to be leaving Weston but happy to be playing back at Woking which is what I wanted to do at the start of the season.

I know there is only about five games left but hopefully I can get the chance now to show people what I can do at that level.ï¿½

Where you aware of your popularity on and off the pitch at Weston?

E. W.:ï¿½I know I got on with the boys quite well so the relationship was quite good with all the boys.

Was I popular off the pitch?ï¿½

A few Weston supporters have suggested that if you and Wilfred (fellow striker Wilfried Domoraud who also played for Weston) had of played up front together for Woking all season then perhaps they wouldnï¿½t be where they are in the table now?

E. W.: ï¿½That was sort of the plan at the start of the season but things happened and obviously I wasnï¿½t included for more or less all of the season.

I am glad that it is over now and that that is behind me and I am looking forward.

My contract is up until May the 1st. I only signed a year contract then after that we will basically see whatï¿½s up.ï¿½

If I could ask you for a message for the Weston supporters?

E. W.: ï¿½Thanks for your support.

I hope Weston stay up, which I am quite confident that you will and who knows, maybe I will see you guys again in the future some day.ï¿½

635 - 09/04/2009

Annual Presentation Dinner

This years Annual Presentation Dinner will be held at Weston-super-Mare AFC on Saturday 2nd May @ 7.30pm.

The Evening will include not only the Presentations but a Buffet and Disco.

Tickets are ï¿½10 in advance or ï¿½12.50 on the Door.

For more information please contact Helen at Woodspring Stadium on 01934 621618.

634 - 08/04/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw - Winners

Week 20 8 April 2009:

ï¿½1000 D Foxley A1423

ï¿½500 Mr Ellis WA2568

ï¿½250 Mr Leader SC2405

ï¿½125 Mrs S Glynn Y5903

64 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½1000 - number Y3522 - winner - Tony Easton. Next week Roll Over Extra Prize reverts to ï¿½500

633 - 08/04/2009

Manny recalled back to Woking

Emmanuel Williams has today been recalled from an highly impressive loan spell at Weston-super-Mare by Blue Square Premier side Woking.

632 - 07/04/2009

Somerset Floodlight Youth League, League Cup Final (THURSDAY)

On Thursday Winscombe face Weston-super-Mare in the Final of the Somerset Floodlight Youth League, League Cup.

The game takes place at the Hand Stadium at Kenn, Clevedon and kicks-off at 7:45pm.

Please come along and support the lads and show your appreciation for their efforts during another memorable season as they bring the curtain down on the current campaign.

631 - 06/04/2009

After match interview with Christopher Smith

Assistant Manager Christopher Smith took time out to speak to the Club website following the Blue Square Conference South fixture at St. Albans City .

Extracts of the Interview are as follows.:-

If I could start by asking your thoughts on todayï¿½s game please?

C. S.: ï¿½From minute one to minute ninety embarrassing is probably the best way to describe it really.

Apart from Tom Evans I think everybody else was way below par.

If you look at it in terms of individual outfield battles we probably lost eight or nine. ï¿½

Do you think that was the worst that we have played this season?

C. S.: ï¿½By an absolute country mile.

Once they go out there and start that game at 3 Oï¿½clock there is nothing really that Gurns (Andrew Gurney) or myself can do to influence it.

You canï¿½t give people the desire to work hard and run around and for the first time this season, at least since we have been back (Since Gurney and Smith took over the managerial reigns) that was lacking.

You probably accept it if it happens once but today has got to be the first and only time that we come off feeling that far away from competing.

To that extent, they ( St. Albans ) where streets ahead of us today.

We looked as if we where playing three or four leagues above what we are capable of playing today.ï¿½

The general consensus seems to be that the current squad is top six/top eight material?

We where a long way off that today werenï¿½t we?

C. S.:ï¿½To be honest we said letï¿½s go from now until the end of the season unbeaten but if we turn up like we did today we wonï¿½t pick up a single point in our remaining five games.ï¿½

With Thurrockï¿½s result today (a 1-0 defeat at Basingstoke ) five points will now guarantee our league place for next season?

That should be a comfortably achievable target?

C. S.: ï¿½I think perhaps we have spent too much emphasis on looking at what we need to do to be safe and what has happened below us.

I think perhaps we should of just been taking every game as it comes.

Today was like the last game of the season. It reminded me totally of a couple of seasons ago when we where away at Lewes and got absolutely smashed from start to finish and got beat.

That was what it was like today.ï¿½

630 - 01/04/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw Winners

Week 19 1 April 2009:

ï¿½1000 Gaynor Jones WJ6840

ï¿½500 P Cartwright WC1426

ï¿½250 Bob Thompson P5298

ï¿½125 Mrs M Fallows W5201

64 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½500 - number 2124 - no winner - next week Roll Over Extra Prize rolls over to ï¿½1000

629 - 01/04/2009

After match interview with Christopher Smith

Assistant Manager Christopher Smith took time out to speak to the Club website following the Blue Square Conference South fixture home fixture with Hayes and Yeading United.

Extracts of the Interview are as follows.:-

If I could start by asking your thoughts on todayï¿½s game please?

C. S.: ï¿½Unfortunate really.

I thought we did every so well considering the side that we put out and that is no disrespect to the players that came in but you look at the players that where injured and the people that we where missing today.

We where always going to be up against it but I thought we where better than them.

We played some good football and we where undone by two unfortunate goals.

The first goal of theirs was a cross which he has shanked and it has gone straight over Northyï¿½s (Ryan Northmore) head in to the top corner which can happen and it does happen.

The second one was as bad a decision as I have seen.

If I am corrected by the DVD later then I will apologise wholeheartedly but he has given a penalty when it looks as if Ryan (Northmore) was fouled and it looks as if the only hand that touched the ball was Ryanï¿½s so he was the only person in the entire crowd that has seen it.

So you obviously accept that and then Ryanï¿½s saved the penalty and the ladï¿½s followed it up and played it forward towards the goal and their lad is stood in an offside position and has put it in and again that is two decisions that have gone against us which obviously cost us the game.

If I am wrong I will apologise but seeing that the way I have seen it during the game live then it is definitely two of the worse decisions that I have seen this season.

It always seems to happen to us and that is not us feeling sorry for ourselves or always moaning and complaining about officials which it seems that we do week in week out but I think the standard of officials in this league is horrendous.

All you ask for is a bit of consistency and I donï¿½t think you will ever get that as long as you get refereeï¿½s coming up who have never played the game.

That is probably a fault all the way through football not just in our league but it seems to aggrieve us most weeks to be fair so again as I said if I am wrong on both occasions then I will apologise that I got it wrong but I donï¿½t think that I have.ï¿½

I think we definitely deserved a share of the spoils donï¿½t you?

C. S.: ï¿½Yes.

Definitely.

We did really well as did the boys that came in as well, Tom Evans and young Matty Groves .ï¿½

Can you tell me more on how those moves came about please?

C. S.:ï¿½Gurns (Andrew Gurney) played in a charity match against Chelsea on Wednesday for Christian Roberts so I think that is where the Tom Evans thing came about with the Swindon connection there.

Matty got paid up by Bristol Rovers at the end of last week I think.

He has been on loan at Mangotsfield and he got a decent report off Phil Bater and we took him.

It was one of those where we are that short of bodies that we could of put out a team and a set of substitutes on people that where injured today.

Tom is on loan for the rest of the season.

It is a shame for Tom today really because his goal deserved to count for something today because his overall game was quality. I just feel a bit aggrieved and hacked off and really we just want the season to end.

I think with the side that we have got here and with one or possibly two additions in the summer then next season we will be looking at the top of the table rather than looking below us and seeing what is happening below us.ï¿½

Is our current injury predicament the worst you have known in your time in football?

C. S.: ï¿½I canï¿½t believe it to be fair.

We lost Dayle Grubb today after 3 minutes.

We lost Tom Parrinello today at half-time and you look at the players that we have got out and everything seems to be going against us at the moment.

They say that everything levels itself out over the course of a season so this final month we must be due some good fortune.ï¿½

We are as good as safe though arenï¿½t we?

C. S.: ï¿½Id rather it would be mathematically safe though.ï¿½

If I could finish by asking you:- For the remaining games do you ï¿½. A) Put out you strongest side and finish as high in the table as possible so as to be an attractive proposition as possible for summer targets or do you ï¿½. B) Give the fringe team players, the Youth Team graduates, and current youth team players a run of games as now would surely be the ideal time to see whether they are good enough or not, would it not?

C. S.: ï¿½I think it will be a little bit of both and that is not avoiding the question.

Andy Gurney has said right from the start that he wants us to finish above 50 points and he wants us above mid-table so we have got a bit of work to do between now and then.

If we can win the next couple then you might see one or two youngsters getting blooded each week rather than four or five having to come in the squad and play so that is not the way to do it.

That is not fair on them.

It is not fair putting one of the Youth players at right mid and playing one of the youth team players behind him at right back as well.

You need an experienced head behind him just to help him along and you just donï¿½t want too many in at one time as that is not fair on them.ï¿½

628 - 01/04/2009

February Player of the Month

Prior to Saturday's Blue Square Conference South fixture with Hayes and Yeading United, Tomaso Parrinello was presented with the Weston-super-Mare F. C. Player of the Month accolade for February 2009.

The presentation was made by the awards founder and administrator Simon Stephens on behalf of sponsor Reverend Heather Williams who could not be present.

The March poll is now open and will close at mid-day on Friday the 10th of April 2009.

Supporters can as usual vote through the official Club Website which can be found at www.westonsupermareafc.co.uk or can obtain a voting slip from Simon Stephens at any first or youth team fixture.

627 - 01/04/2009

Current squad will finish season

In further news from around the club Andy Gurney (pictured) confirmed this morning that the current squad will be the one that see's the Seagulls through to the end of the season.

Tom Evans and Matt Groves will be Weston's final addition's for this season as the March 31st deadline for signings and transfers passed with out any further new faces putting pen to paper at The Woodspring Stadium.

626 - 31/03/2009

Gurney handed two year contract by Weston

Paul Bliss Chairman of Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare F. C. this evening handed First Team manager Andrew Gurney a two year contract that will tie him to the Woodspring Stadium based club until the Summer of 2011.

The 35 year midfield enforcer who can count Reading, Swansea City, Bristol Rovers, Swindon Town and Torquay United amongst his former clubs has transformed the fortunes of the Seagulls since taking over from Tony Ricketts on the first of December.

Since Gurney was handed the managerial reigns he has overseen a big turn around in form and overhauled the playing squad to such an extent that many claim it to be the strongest that they have witnessed in the 60 year history of the club.

Speaking on Gurney's appointment Bliss commented "Andy has done a great job and is building something for the future. I believe that he is the man to take us on to brighter and better things and it is clear that he has the respect of the players and they want to play for him. When players are committing their future to Andy and the club i think it is important that they can see that Andy has got security also and that the man that brought them here will also be around."

At the time of going to print Gurney was taking training at the Club but it is hoped that his comments on the contract will be available shortly.

625 - 28/03/2009

News Signings to bolster injury ravaged Squad

Weston-super-Mare Manager Andy Gurney moved this week to reinforce his injury-ravaged squad. Bringing in Ex-Bristol Rovers player Matt Groves. Matt was released earlier this month from the Pirates.

Groves graduated through the Bristol Rovers centre of excellence, and was awarded his first professional contract by Rovers in May 2007. His debut for the first team came on in a second round FA Cup match against Rushden & Diamonds when he came on as a substitute.

Groves has been on loan to Chippenham, Tiverton and Mangotsfield before being released.

Tom Evans arrives on a months loan from Swindon Town, the Centre-Half has been playing regularly for the Reserves at Swindon. Evans could go straight into the squad for this Saturday Blue South fixture against Hayes & Yeading United.

624 - 28/03/2009

Heron's Heroes latest guests of Weston

In their relentless quest to build links with clubs at all levels across the town and the local area Weston-super-Mare F. C. invited representatives of Herons Moor Rangers to their fixture with Havant & Waterlooville.

Herons Director of Football Lachlan Geddis, Head Coach Mark Chesney, prolific frontman Timothy Marshall and goalkeeper Jimmy "safe hands" Astridge all enjoyed the hospitality on offer at The Woodspring Stadium on Monday evening.

Herons are currently enjoying a season to remember.

They top division three of the Weston-super-Mare & District League are in the Atwell Shield Quarter-Final and in the Final of the Challenge cup.

Chesney and Marshall are both Q. P. R. fans and where delighted to meet up with Hawks Assistant Boss Charlie Oatway who is named after the 1973 Rangers squad.

622 - 26/03/2009

Horrendous injury list of 11 threatens to de-rail Westonï¿½s top half push

A horrendous injury list, the size of which would ruin the ambitions of any side is threatening to de-rail Weston-super-Mare F. C.ï¿½s push for a top half finish in Blue Square Conference South.

Going in to last Mondayï¿½s home clash with Havant & Waterlooville Weston had 9 players unavailable through injury and a further two injuries in the game against the Hawks means that overworked physio David Callow has no less than 11 players to put his healing hands to work on.

Emmanuel Williams (dead leg), Marc McGregor (dead leg), Darren Mullings (broken ankle), Mark McKeever (cartilage tear), Jack Compton (strained ligaments), Ashan Holgate (damaged ligaments), Michael Green (bruised foot), Charlie Comyn-Platt (sore achilles) and Alex Kite (tight hamstring) all missed the game against the Hampshire visitors whilst Craig Rand and player-manager Andrew Gurney had to be substituted against Shaun Galeï¿½s side after picking up further injuries.

Influential centre back Rand (the clubs player of the Month for December and January) picked up an abductor muscle strain and is expected to be out of action for 10-14 days.

Also definitely missing from this Saturdayï¿½s game with Hayes & Yeading United are midfielders Mullings and Holgate along with wingers McKeever and Compton.

Compton is expected to be up to four weeks away from a return, McKeever also looks likely to be a month away from action whilst both Holgate and Mullings are said to be approximately two weeks away from a place on the bench.

Pacey frontman Williams and Manager Gurney (who tweaked a back muscle against the Hawks) are said to be no better than a 50/50 chance to face a United side who currently sit in 3rd position in Blue Square South and are on the crest of a 7 game winning wave whilst striker McGregor and defender Green are both given a 60/40 chance of playing by Callow.

Defenderï¿½s Kite and Comyn-Platt are both expected to be available to fill starting berths against the Middlesex based visitors.

623 - 26/03/2009

Sound Bite:

Dayle Grubb, Sam Johnson and Sam Clark following Weston-super-Mare V Havant & Waterlooville.

Probably the most pleasing thing for most Westonï¿½s supporters to come out of Monday eveningï¿½s game with Havant & Waterlooville was the inclusion of the Weston born trio of Dayle Grubb, Sam Johnson and Sam Clark in the Seagulls squad.

Youth team Captain Grubb made his first Weston start and drew plaudits for an impressive display on the wing whilst academy graduates Sam Johnson and Sam Clark replaced Craig Rand (on 32 minutes) and Marvin Brown (on 70 minutes) respectively.

Johnson was in with a genuine shout of taking the Man of the Match accolade after successfully policing Hawks danger man Craig Watkins whilst Clark caused some late headaches for the experienced Ian Simpemba.

After the game all three spoke to the club website to share their thoughts.

Extracts of the interviews are below:-

Dayle Grubb:

The first I knew about it was when the manager read out the team sheet.

I was obviously a bit nervous as I have been when I have been on the bench in the past but I was just hoping to do well.

I thought I did o. k..

I tried getting on the ball as much as I could, tried tracking my runs and tried doing what was asked of me.

Hopefully there will be other opportunities for me but we will just have to see what happens with the injury list.

Sam Johnson: (Pictured)

It was good to get a game and get some minutes under my belt.

I have been playing for Clevedon United but havenï¿½t played through injury for a couple of weeks so it was good to get some minutes really.

I think I did alright.

I came on, won my headers and just cleared up when needed really.

Hopefully it wonï¿½t be my last opportunity.

We are as good as safe so if I could get some more games I would love to get the chance.

It is an important stage of my career and I need to start getting a few games really and I would like to push on for next season.

I love putting on the Weston shirt and am very proud to do so.

Sam Clark:

I was pleased to get some minutes under my belt.

Hopefully this can continue from now on.

Hopefully there will be other opportunities for me.

I thought I held my own today and did alright.

It has given me an incentive to carry on and I am pleased with how it went.

If I can get the opportunity to impress in the remaining games I would like to be in the position to try and earn a contract for next season.

621 - 25/03/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw Results

Week 18 25 March 2009:

ï¿½1000 Ged Devlin J3431

ï¿½500 Mrs Iris Lawton O2775

ï¿½250 Ms Kelly WA3693

ï¿½125 Mr Irwin SC0073

72 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize ï¿½3000 winner Mrs Holbrook (number WD3864) - next week Roll Over Extra Prize returns to ï¿½500

619 - 23/03/2009

Weston Manager Andrew Gurney on Saturdayï¿½s game with Bromley and the appointment of new Captain Adrian Harris

On the game with Bromley:

A. G.: ï¿½I thought we where a bit sloppy in the first half.

I said at half-time that it felt like we where playing within ourselves and not really playing like we have of late.

In the second half we improved and it was another fantastic three points really.ï¿½

On Adrian Harrisï¿½s appointment as the new Captain:

A. G.: ï¿½We gave the Captains armband to Adie today because he will continue with it once Charlie has gone.

He is a natural leader and that is what we brought him here for.

He is a winner and a leader.

He has an uplifting and motivational effect on people and that is why we have made him Captain.ï¿½

618 - 23/03/2009

Weston lose Captain Charlie: Comyn-Platt to join Aussie side ECU Joondalup

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mareï¿½s plans for the end of this season and the start of the next campaign have been hit by the news that inspirational Captain Charlie Comyn-Platt is to join Australian side ECU Joondalup.

Comyn-Platt is expected to be in the Seagulls side for tomorrows (Mondayï¿½s) fixture with Havant & Waterlooville and next Saturdays game with Hayes and Yeading before flying out to Perth on Monday the 30th of March.

Charlie has a visa for a year but expects to spend 6 months ï¿½down underï¿½.

Joondalup play in the Premier Division of the Football West State League, 1 level below the countryï¿½s top division the Hyundai A-League, step 2 of the Australian game and technically equivalent to England ï¿½s Championship.

The move came about through Comyn-Plattï¿½s former Bolton Wanderers team mate Jamie Gibb who is currently with Joondalup and after Saturdayï¿½s fixture with Bromley Charlie spoke to confirm rumours of his departure and said ï¿½It is a fresh start.

It will be good for me and a good experience and opportunities like this donï¿½t come around very often.

It wonï¿½t be the last you see of me at Weston and as soon as I get back I will be in touch straight away.ï¿½

Weston Manager Andrew Gurney was understandably disappointed to lose his Captain and commented ï¿½It is disappointing.

He (Charlie) has been playing well of late and him and Randy (Craig Rand) have started to get a decent partnership but he has got the opportunity to go to Australia .

We wish him all the best and hope it goes well for him.ï¿½

Gurney is understood to have a direct replacement for Comyn-Platt lined up for the Summer but it is not clear whether he will bring in another centre-back before then.

It is thought that in the immediate term, Charlieï¿½s departure will provide an opportunity to on loan Bristol Rovers defender Alex Kite who excelled in Saturdayï¿½s game against Mark Goldbergï¿½s Lilywhites.

Vice Captain Adrian Harris took the Captainï¿½s armband for Saturdayï¿½s game against the Kent based visitors and Gurney confirmed afterwards that Harris has been appointed Captain on a permanent basis.

All at Weston-super-Mare F. C. wish Charlie well and look forward to seeing him back at The Woodspring Stadium soon.

620 - 23/03/2009

After match interview with Marc McGregor

Man of the Match Marc McGregor took time out to speak to the Club website following the Blue Square Conference South fixture home fixture with Bromley.

Extracts of the Interview are as follows.:-

If I could start with your thoughts on this afternoons game please? 2-1 perhaps flattered Bromley?

M. M.: ï¿½Second half I thought we played very well.

First half I thought we where really poor.

We started off first 10 minutes if we where going to role them over but then the following 35 minutes we looked slow to the ball.

We didnï¿½t win any second balls.

We didnï¿½t get the ball down.

We came in at half-time at 1-1 when it could have been 2 or 3 nil to us.

So really we didnï¿½t capitalise on the good start that we had.

Second half I think we showed an improvement and whilst we where sloppy in little bits and patches, overall I was pleased to pick up another 3 points. ï¿½

You must be pleased with your personal performance? A well deserved Man of the Match accolade?

M. M.: ï¿½I am.

I mean I am 30 now!

It is not all about going around and scoring goals for me, It is making sure that the team get three points.

It would have been nice to cap the game with a goal but overall I am more pleased that the lads got three points to be honest.ï¿½

How do you feel the new formation is working? (Weston have recently moved from a 4-4-2 set up to a 4-3-3 formation)

M. M.:ï¿½I think it works really well.

When we are on top and when we are not.

A couple of times today we gave the ball away and Manny (Emmanuel Williams) and Marv (Marvin Brown) would work their socks off to get back in and make a five and it works really well.

I think we can work on it a bit more which Gurns (Andrew Gurney) wants to do but overall I think it is going to be a formation that he wants to play.ï¿½

I believe that our current squad is a top eight/top six team? Would you agree?

M. M.: ï¿½It could be.

There is a fine line with us.

You guys know. You see it week in and week out and I have seen it for a couple of years that on our day we can beat anyone.

We can get a little bit sloppy, a little bit arrogant or get a little bit of something that we donï¿½t want in our game and then we are a team that can be fighting just above relegation.

With the squad that we have got now and the way things are going with Gurns (Andrew Gurney) who I think has done a great job along with Smudge (Christopher Smith) and Prids (Alan Pridham)I think you wonï¿½t be far wrong from saying that we should easily be pushing for the play-offï¿½s next year.ï¿½

617 - 22/03/2009

Another injury blow hits Weston

The phrase ï¿½It never rains but it poursï¿½ would seem a perfect description of Weston-super-Mare F. C.ï¿½s luck with injuries this season.

No sooner had Scott Partridge returned to the Seagulls 16 for the home fixture with Bromley and reduced the "absentee list" to 3 than Jack Compton sustained what could be a ï¿½season endingï¿½ injury in the same game and saw Weston once again missing four of its regular first team players through injury (Darren Mullings, Mark McKeever and Ashan Holgate are all currently sidelined).

Left winger Compton who joined Weston from Havant & Waterlooville in February replaced Emmanuel Williams (who himself was suffering a dead leg) on 54 minutes but appeared to fall awkwardly on his left ankle 29 minutes later and was replaced by Ben Willshire for the closing 7 minutes.

An initial x-ray at Weston General Hospital on Saturday evening appeared clear with Weston physiotherapist David Callow led to believe that the most likely diagnosis is ï¿½bad ligament damageï¿½.

Callow confirmed that Torquay born Compton had the feeling back in his ankle and that the former West Bromwich Albion man would undergo a further check at a hospital in Cardiff today (Sunday).

Callow went on to say that he would ï¿½be looking to re-asses the situation in 5 days.ï¿½

With Dean Grubb having signed for Gloucester City on Thursday and Mark McKeever due under the surgeonï¿½s knife on Tuesday Weston are without any match fit ï¿½naturalï¿½ wingers in their squad but the 4-3-3 formation successfully adopted for the past 3 ï¿½ games would suggest that it will not be an item for immediate concern.

All at Weston-super-Mare F. C. wish Jack well for a pain free and speedy recovery.

616 - 19/03/2009

Grubb leaves Weston for Gloucester

The contract of Dean Grubb has been cancelled by mutual agreement at Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare and the Weston born winger will join BGB Southern League Premier Division side Gloucester City for an initial period that will run to the end of the current campaign.

Weston Manager Andrew Gurney commented ï¿½Dean has been frustrated and disappointed that he hasnï¿½t been playing and has wanted to go out on loan. He has great ability and we will maintain contact with him but opportunities look like they will be limited here and we decided that it would be best for both parties if we where to part company.

21 year old Grubb who spent 7 years at Bristol City (during which time he was capped five times by the Welsh Under 19 side and once by the Under 21ï¿½s) confirmed that there was no hard feelings and that he and the club had parted on good terms and went on to comment ï¿½I just wanted to play some games for the rest of the season. Gloucester are a good club and are in with a shot of the play-offï¿½s. I told Gurns (Andrew Gurney) what a great job I think he has done since he has taken over and we have parted on good terms. It is certainly not the last time you will see me at the Club as I will come to watch my brother Dayle and I wish everybody at the Club well.ï¿½

Former Seagulls player and Assistant Manger David ï¿½Borisï¿½ Mehew is currently the man holding the Managerial reigns for the Tigers whilst former Weston players Kevin Sawyer, Matthew Rose, Lee Smith, Marc Richards and Stuart Jones are all on the books at the club who currently ground share with Cirencester Town at the Corrinium Stadium.

It is understood that Grubb (who won Westonï¿½s Player of the Month award for September 2007) and Mehew will review the situation in the summer and the move could well be extended in to next season and beyond.

All at Weston-super-Mare F. C. thank Dean for his efforts whilst in Weston colours and join in wishing him well for the future.

615 - 19/03/2009

After match interview with Weston Manager Andrew Gurney

Weston Manager Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the Club website following the Blue Square Conference South fixture home fixture at Team Bath.

Extracts of the Interview are as follows.:-

If I could start by asking your thoughtï¿½s on this eveningï¿½s game please?

A. G.: ï¿½We worked our socks off and got what we thoroughly deserved.

We gave ourselves a couple of little scares at the end where we got a little bit panicky and I told the boys that we need to relax a little bit at times and not get up tight and start panicking which we did a little bit but all credit, really worked hard and played some decent stuff at times and it was a great three points.ï¿½

I thought we played some attractive free flowing football that was pleasing to the eye.

Would you agree?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

It was.

In the second half, some of their football.

I thought Manny and Marvin where both outstanding really.

You know there work rate up and down as much as anything else for us.

Donï¿½t want to pick just them two out because everyone played well but I thought those two in particular where a different class really.ï¿½

For the past two and a half games now we have set up with a new formation.

Will that be what we stick with for the future or will it be a case of ï¿½horses for coursesï¿½?

A. G.:ï¿½Yes.

I mean nothing is set in stone.

Like I say it worked well in the second half against Wimbledon and to a certain point done alright with Eastleigh with it and again tonight so we will see next Saturday being what bodies we have got and go from there ï¿½

Have you set a points total in your mind that we need to ensure guaranteed survival?

If we have not reached it, how many more points do you think we need?

A. G.: ï¿½To be honest with you, Obviously that is the main objective but we are trying to look beyond that and look upwards not downwards and just pick up as many points between now and the end of the season as we can.

If we go to the next 11 games I think we have got left, If we keep doing the same things were doing then hopefully we can get enough points to finish in the top half of the table.

That is our aim.ï¿½

No target then?

A. G.: ï¿½I think obviously another four will be enough.

To be honest but like I say, take one game at a time and you know we will focus on Saturday now.

Get three points out of that hopefully and just keep building.ï¿½

614 - 18/03/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw Results

Week 17 18 March 2009:

ï¿½1000 Mr Woolridge L6058

ï¿½500 Susan Smith WK4035

ï¿½250 Kerry Mercer H0128

ï¿½125 R Meredith WF3132

63 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

No Rollover Extra Prize winner (ticket 2225)- so next week Roll Over Extra Prize rises to ï¿½3000

613 - 17/03/2009

After match interview with Weston Manager Andrew Gurney

Weston Manager Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the Club website following the Blue Square Conference South fixture at Eatleigh.

Extracts of the Interview are as follows.:-

If I could start by asking your thoughts on the change of formation that you adopted for todayï¿½s game?

A. G.: ï¿½We went with it a little bit in the second half against Wimbledon last week with the three of them up there and it worked well.

It was working well today really but obviously with Michael Green having to go off at half-time we had to change it a little bit.

We had to put Scott Bartlett at right-back and with Scott Bartlett, Adie Harris and Wellsy as a three in there you are quite strong but then we had to sacrifice the way we played a little bit then as Grubby is a different player, he is a winger so we had to change it a little bit.ï¿½

And your thoughts on the game itself?

A. G.: ï¿½We where unfortunate not to get something out of the game today really.

We have hit the post.

We have had chances in the first half, a couple in the second half.

Manny is one on one with the keeper so it could of gone our way.

They have nicked the important goal which is obviously very, very disappointing and frustrating but again I think another performance that shows how far we have come really to come here, they are third in the table, they are doing well, they are a big strong team and I donï¿½t think they have lost hardly any games this season and they have turned teams over 3ï¿½s and 4ï¿½s here you know so it shows we are still going along the right tracks but just disappointed not to get any points out of the game really. ï¿½

What is the nature of the injury to Greener?

A. G.:ï¿½A whack but quite a bad one.

He could be struggling for Tuesday.

We are not getting a lot of luck on the injury front at the minute but we will see how he goes in the next couple of days.ï¿½

Ashan was doing some ball work pre-match, Is he getting closer to a return?

A. G.: ï¿½He is closer.

He is starting to run in straight lines now.

He is still struggling with the twisting and turning with his ankle but hopefully we can get him back in the next week or two.

He is probably at least still two weeks away but if we could get him back for the last four or five games then obviously that is going to be a bonus.ï¿½

And Scott Partridge?

A. G.: ï¿½He is doing well as well.

He had a bit of a clean out on his knee and hopefully again, within the next two weeks he should be back as well.

Hopefully in the next two weeks we will be a little bit stronger in terms of numbers and bodies.

That can only help us on our path towards the end of the season.ï¿½

ï¿½. Darren Mullings?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

He has had his boot off (pneumatic walking boot) but obviously he is still limping badly and he is still probably a good month away Daz really.

They are progressing but obviously very slowly.ï¿½

Do you have any further targets in mind or are you happy to run with what you have got?

A. G.: ï¿½I think we are at the tip of what we can have really in terms of money and everything else.

We are happy with what we have got.

Today although we are very, very disappointed to be going home with no points we are encouraged again really by the performance and taking positives out of it.

We are going in the right direction.

I think that is 10 games left now and hopefully we can win three or four of those, we can finish up and around mid-table which is what we are aiming for.ï¿½

Performances against Wimbledon over two games and today against Eastleigh have shown that we are capable of competing at the top end of the table and have set a marker for the standards that we want to achieve next season?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

I think if we go on the last 5 or 6 weeks and the performances and the points that we have got and carry that on in to next season then hopefully we will be fighting in the right half of the table rather the bottom half.

It is still very encouraging and we donï¿½t want to be too disappointed about today because we have put in a good performance and we have got to bounce back on Tuesday now and when in recent weeks we have had a disappointing result we have bounced strongly back and hopefully we can do that on Tuesday.ï¿½

If I could finish by asking for a few words on Team Bath please?

A. G.: ï¿½They are a decent team.

If you go back to the game at our place where we lost 1-0.

A game we dominated really.

Just couldnï¿½t get the goal.

That was in our little period where we couldnï¿½t buy a goal at the time.

We know we are more than capable of going there and getting a win and that is what we will be aiming to do.ï¿½

612 - 13/03/2009

Further County honours for Seagulls starlets

Weston-super-Mare F. C. Youth Team duo, Ben Dancey and Dayle Grubb have brought further prestige to the Woodspring Stadium based club with their 7th and 5th call-upï¿½s respectively to the Somerset County Under 18ï¿½s squad this season.

Youth team Captain Grubb who plays in the centre of midfield and highly rated goalkeeper Dancey will represent their County in the South & West Counties Youth Championship game against Guernsey on Sunday 15th March.

The game will take place at Blanche Pierre Lane ; St. Martin ï¿½s and kick-off at 11:30am.

The players will journey by road to Southampton Airport from where they will fly out at 4pm on Saturday.

They will fly back from the Island at 7pm on Sunday and within hours of their return they will be pressed in to service as both are expected to form part of the Seagulls squad of 16 for the crucial Somerset Floodlight Youth League Premier Division clash against Bishop Sutton at the Woodspring Stadium on Monday evening (Kick-Off 7:45pm).

All at the club congratulate both players and wish them good luck.

611 - 12/03/2009

After match interview with Weston defender Craig Rand

Weston defender and sponsors Man of the Match Craig Rand took time out to speak to the Club website following the Blue Square Conference South fixture home fixture with AFC Wimbledon. Extracts of the Interview are as follows.:-

If I could start by asking your thoughts on this afternoonï¿½s game please?

C. R.: ï¿½Pretty pleased with a point after starting really sloppy in the first half. They came out of the bocks and the last thing the Manager has said is make sure we start really quick so we let ourselves down a bit.

Obviously they have gone a goal up, I think it was after 5 minutes wasnï¿½t it? We weathered the storm a bit, got in at 1-0 then obviously second half played extremely well and where really unlucky not to get three points.ï¿½

Wimbledon where perhaps fortunate not to be down to ten men after about 10 minutes when Manny was fouled?

C. R.: ï¿½Definitely.

Canï¿½t understand what the Referee is playing at to be honest, he didnï¿½t even give a foul. That would of made a massive difference. When you look at the end, they would of ended up with 9 but overall we have got to be pretty pleased with a point against a team who are pretty much running away with the league.

It just shows you where we have come under the new manager over the last few weeks. ï¿½

I thought we where comfortably the better side in the second half and can perhaps consider ourselves unfortunate not to of taken all three points, especially in light of the last minute penalty?

C. R.:ï¿½Yes, Definitely.

I think if you look at the second half, there was only one team that played the football.

When we eventually got the ball down and played we definitely looked the better team. Obviously they had a spell but we weathered the storm.

I thought Charlie second half was brilliant along with the rest of the back four and the midfield but there only looked one winner towards the end and it is unfortunate. He has hit the penalty really well but the lad has guessed the right way and you canï¿½t have a go at Manny. He did extremely well to get the penalty.ï¿½

Speaking of Manny, A quality performance from him today wasnï¿½t it?

C. R.: ï¿½Yes. Brilliant.

He has been brilliant since he has come here and he has made a massive difference. He gives you that bit of spark up top. He keeps the ball, he always looks lively and can always get a goal and I donï¿½t know how he is not getting in Wokingï¿½s team to be honest.ï¿½

In two games against the team that will probably win the title, we havenï¿½t lost and have comfortably matched them? That is surely a sign that things bode well for next season?

C. R.: ï¿½Yes. Exactly.

That is what the Gaffer has come in and said at the end.

This is where we have got to be aiming for, for next season.

We are still not mathematically safe from relegation at the moment and have got to be looking at 45 points which will probably be enough to keep us up.

We need to get to that target as soon as possible then set things up for next season from there.

Things are definitely looking up. I mean, there is a good vibe around the place at the moment and the lads are all buzzing.

We have definitely had a pick up in form and that in my opinion comes from the Management. They have given everyone a lift. Gurns gets the respect off the lads straight away but he also gives respect back to the lads as well.ï¿½

As well as winning the December and January Player of the Month awards, you have also won the Man of the Match accolade today. You must be delighted with your current form?

C. R.: ï¿½Yes. Delighted really.

After a season out. It was looking at one point I wasnï¿½t sure if I would get back fit but I worked extremely hard on my own away from the Club and have got to thank the Physio that we had last year, John Willey who worked really close with me getting me back fit and obviously Dave who has come in, he has helped me as well.

So delighted personally to be getting the awards but it is a team game and I canï¿½t do it without the rest of the lads but I am delighted to be playing and looking forward to the future.

Obviously that is why I have signed a new deal because I definitely believe we can go on to better things.ï¿½

You see a bright future for Weston over the next few seasonï¿½s then?

C. R.: ï¿½If we keep this squad of players. Maybe add one or two more with a bit of experience but there is no reason why we canï¿½t on todayï¿½s performance at least challenge for a play-off spot. That is what we have got to be looking for next season and a good cup run.ï¿½

You have been the subject of interest from Peterborough United and Darlington. Someone of the calibre of Darren Ferguson showing interest in you must be flattering?

C. R.: ï¿½It is always nice to hear that teams are interested in me but I am just concentrating on playing for Weston at the minute and I am getting on a bit now, pushing 27 but if I had a chance to go full time it would be great. I am not thinking about that, I am just thinking about playing well for Weston and moving on to better things with Weston, hopefully next season and beyond.ï¿½

If I could finish by asking for a few words on next weeks opponents Eastleigh? They are in great form, in the play-off places and have an outside shot at automatic promotion. A difficult place to go at the best of times?

C. R.: ï¿½Always a tough place to go. Ian Bairdï¿½s teams are always well drilled and physical.

We know what they are going to do so we have got to be at it 100% especially from the first whistle.

Got to be focussed. There is no reason why we cannot go there and get a result but you know it is going to be difficult but as a team, like you say, they are doing really well at the minute. Charlie will be a bit of a loss but I think that is how we have improved recently. We have got a squad of players as someone can come in and fill in for each other now which we havenï¿½t had in recent times so we have got to stay positive and go there with a good attitude and I think there is no reason why we canï¿½t get a good result there.ï¿½

610 - 12/03/2009

Weston in Cup Final - Seagulls beat Clevedon AGAIN!

Weston-super-Mare recorded their second victory over Clevedon Town this season last night with the reward for Mondayï¿½s result being a place in the final of the Somerset Floodlight Youth League, League Cup.

Ryan Hodrienï¿½s strike deep in to extra-time won the game for Weston and as with Samuel Clark back in December it was a case of a local Weston born player scoring the games only goal against a side that the Seagulls supporters affectionately know as ï¿½The Pondlifeï¿½ in what is footballs oldest and bitterest rivalry.

Following the game Ryan spoke to the Club Website to talk about the evening and his newfound ï¿½legendï¿½ status amongst the Weston supporters.

Your thoughts on this eveningï¿½s game?

R. H.: ï¿½We started well as a team. A bit dodgy in places with tackles and stuff but we came together as a team, played well, stuck at it and ended up deservedly winning the game.

Pleased with a Cup Final appearance?

Rewards for our efforts over the season?

R. H.: ï¿½I reckon we have a good chance with both the League and the Cup. We have got a great team, good captain and we have got a lot of good players.

Not ideal playing extra-time in light of what will be a testing game at Mangotsfield on Thursday night and one that will have a big impact on the title race?

R. H.: ï¿½No but with the lads we have got I think we should be able to come through. Far from ideal but we should be alright.

You are now officially a ï¿½Terrace Legendï¿½! Are you aware of what Clevedon V Weston means and how does your newfound status sit with you

R. H.: ï¿½It is great!

I have heard all about it and what games between the sides mean and whilst it is always good to win a game for your team the best team to do it against is Clevedon and the best place is at The Hand.

The final will take place on Thursday the 9th of April at The Hand Stadium in Clevedon and the opponents will be Winscombe.

Kick-Off will be at 7:45pm.

609 - 11/03/2009

Gold Striker Lottery Results - Week 16

Week 16 11 March 2009:

ï¿½1000 S Hume P2511

ï¿½500 Mr Duckworth SA0991

ï¿½250 Mary Whitelock WC4398

ï¿½125 K R Wilton WG0115

70 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

No Rollover Extra Prize winner (ticket 3686)- so next week Roll Over Extra Prize rises to ï¿½2500

608 - 10/03/2009

Weston Youth in extra time Victory.

Weston Youth came away from the Hand Stadium with a 1-0 victory, knowing they would be back on April 9th to play Winscombe in the Cup Final.

It took a late goal from Ryan Hodrien in Extra time to separate the two local rivals.

607 - 07/03/2009

Special Guest arrives at Woodspring Stadium

Lord Faulkner of Worcester, a member of the Conference committee will be a special guest at today's home league fixture with AFC Wimbledon.

Lord Faulkner recently hosted the meeting at the house of lords attended by the 68 Conference member clubs.

606 - 05/03/2009

Charlie WILL face Wimbledon

Contrary to statements in the local press suggesting otherwise Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have confirmed that Captain Charlie Comyn-Platt WILL be available for selection for Saturdays home league fixture with AFC Wimbledon.

The Weston Mercury stated that the former Swindon Town and Rochdale man would miss the clash against last seasons Ryman League Premier Division Play-Off Winners when it is in fact the trip to Eastleigh next Saturday (14th) that Comyn-Platt will be forced to sit-out.

The Mercuryï¿½s sister paper the Mid-Week Mercury went on to claim that the imposing defender who won the clubï¿½s player of the month award for February 2008 would miss three games through suspension when it is in fact just the trip to Hampshire that Comyn-Platt will miss.

605 - 05/03/2009

People of Weston-super-Mare : We need you! Rand issues rallying call

Defensive Lynch-Pin Craig Rand has issued a rallying call to the people of Weston-super-Mare and the surrounding area as Weston-super-Mare F. C. prepare to take on AFC Wimbledon in Blue Square Conference South at The Woodspring Stadium this Saturday.

A large travelling contingent are expected to make the journey from Kingston with most predicting that they will outnumber the home support and Rand is keen not to see that happen.

The former Sheffield Wednesday man commented ï¿½For a side that has only been going for 7 years AFC Wimbledon get magnificent levels of support. Everyone predicts them to travel in numbers and I would strongly urge the people of Weston-super-Mare and the surrounding area to get out and support us.ï¿½

Rand who was voted Player of the Month for December and January by the Seagulls supporters went on to say ï¿½Man for man I would back our supporters against any other team in the land. I am yet to come across any who are more dedicated, passionate or committed. In the big scheme of things this is just another game and another opportunity for 3 points but I believe the supporters can have a big impact. I would say to our supporterï¿½s ï¿½bring a mate, bring two. Sing your hearts out for us as you usually do and we will as always give you 100%.ï¿½

When questioned about the quality of the side and the product on show Rand added ï¿½I donï¿½t think you will find better value for money entertainment anywhere else. People have said that this is the strongest squad in the history of the club and I would certainly agree. We are only two steps away from the football league and play an attractive brand of free-flowing football. We are a friendly family club and I would urge people to come and give us a try.ï¿½

604 - 05/03/2009

Season over for Westonï¿½s McKeever ?

Already hamstrung by a number of injuries to their key performers Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have been dealt a further hammer blow with the News that left-winger Mark McKeever looks likely to miss the rest of the current campaign through injury.

The former Sheffield Wednesday and Bristol Rovers man suffered a small cartilage tear in an away league fixture at Thurrock on the 17th of January and has not played since.

It is believed that only a minor operation is needed and McKeever could realistically be expected to be back playing within two weeks of going under the knife however the popular Irishman has been forced to wait on the NHS List and it looks highly unlikely that he will be seen by a Doctor before the end of the current campaign on the 25th of April.

When questioned as to whether it meant ï¿½season overï¿½ for McKeever Weston Manager Andrew Gurney commented ï¿½I think in all honesty it will be. He is waiting for an operation so until he gets in and has that done, we are no further on really.ï¿½

When questioned as to why there where not measures in place to cover such eventualities Weston Chairman Paul Bliss commented ï¿½There is money available for the operation but it must come out of the Managerï¿½s playing budget and it is down to him how he spends it.ï¿½

Speaking exclusively from his home in Ireland after returning briefly to the emerald isle on family business McKeever commented ï¿½I am devastated to be honest. I love playing for Weston, love living in the town and love the people. It is frustrating just watching. Football is my main income and I am surprised that the Club doesnï¿½t have insurance against injury. If I had of known this at the outset then I would have got my own.ï¿½

McKeever is out of contract at the Woodspring Stadium in the summer and since he sustained the injury at Ship Lane he has seen Jack Compton brought in from Havant & Waterlooville to fill the vacancy created by his absence.

603 - 05/03/2009

After match interview with Scott Bartlett

New signing Scott Bartlett took time out to speak to the Club Website following his Weston debut at Fisher Athletic.

Extracts of the Interview with Scott are as follows.:-

If I could start off by asking you how the move to Weston came about and when did you become aware of the Clubï¿½s interest in you?

S. B.: ï¿½I had been at Salisbury a long time and when it became clear that I was going to leave the club, obviously it was a bit of a shock to a lot of people as I have been there for 9 years and it would of looked like that I would of stayed there throughout.

I know Chris Smith going back years and I know Marc McGregor and Charlie Comyn-Platt so it just seemed like a natural progression really.

There where a few clubs that where interested local to where we are.

I live in Tetbury near Smudge and Charlie and they said ï¿½come down and see what you thinkï¿½ and Alan Pridham to be fair worked hard to get me here and it just felt right.ï¿½

I understand you have signed a 2 year deal?

S. B.: ï¿½Yes.

Thatï¿½s right, Yeah.

I am not on of these lads, I have not been on loan before, I am a sort of all or nothing guy and I just felt that if I was going to make the move I would rather do it, commit myself and do it properly.ï¿½

A big commitment?

S. B.:ï¿½Not considering that I was at Salisbury for 9 years but I know what you mean.

I am happy.

Where they are in the league now is just a progression and I think that you will see next season a real progression.

They have got a steady ship and they have got some good players here and if they can bring one or two more in with a bit more experience I think we will have a good go at it.ï¿½

Your thoughts on your own performance today and that of the team?

S. B.: ï¿½I thought we worked hard really.

It was what I expected. To be honest.

We scored a really good goal to go in 2 up and then it always hard when you are 2-0 up at half-time because the game is not won but it is.

You can only throw it away then and I felt that we started the second half a bit sloppy but you know, we have got a bit of pace going forward and two centre-halfï¿½s that are decent, good in the air and I think to be fair they are a good group of lads and they work hard for each other and the Gaffer so I enjoyed it to be honest.

It is just nice to get back playing.

I havenï¿½t played for a couple of weeks now so I just want to get a bit of match fitness, a bit of sharpness, you know come back in my game in the next week or so.

Have a good week of training then take Wimbledon on.ï¿½

601 - 04/03/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw - Results Week 15

Week 15 4 March 2009:

ï¿½1000 Mrs Elvin N5257

ï¿½500 J Baverstock WG4798

ï¿½250 V Feeney SC1971

ï¿½125 R Farnworth W5992

61 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

No Rollover Extra Prize winner (ticket 1518)- so next week Roll Over Extra Prize rises to ï¿½2000

602 - 04/03/2009

After match interview with Luke Purnell

Goalkeeper Luke Purnell who was making his first league start with the Seagulls spoke to the Club Website after the match against Fisher Athletic.

Although not you first first team appearance, today was your first league start in a few years at Weston, Was it a late call/surprise?

L. P.: ï¿½Yes.

It was late, It was yesterday.

I just dropped my plans.

I am always willing to play.ï¿½

You must be pleased to of kept a clean sheet?

L. P.: ï¿½Yes.

It was decent.

I didnï¿½t have much to do as the defenders helped me out massively.

They just protected me.

I think I just had to make one save.

They helped me out a lot which was good.

They kept building my confidence up.ï¿½

Happy with your own performance then?

L. P.:ï¿½From what I had to do.

I made a few little mistakes but overall I was generally happy.

Obviously I didnï¿½t have a lot to do but what I did do I thought I did alright.ï¿½

Hopefully not the last opportunity that you are going to get?

L. P.: ï¿½No.

Hopefully not but because I am at Uni it is logistically difficult for me to get around but I am just happy to play whenever I am needed.ï¿½

You could perhaps benefit from playing more games and playing regularly somewhere?

L. P.: ï¿½Obviously I play for the Uni once a week but that is a totally different standard and just a bit of a laugh.ï¿½

You are a popular figure on and off the pitch at Weston.

A local boy who people are keen to see succeed.

Are you aware of that?

L. P.: ï¿½Yes.

I know the likes of yourself and Sean and I do appreciate that backing because again it is all about confidence and the people that come and watch build your confidence and I have always got on with, liked and respected the large majority of the people that come to watch us.ï¿½

600 - 02/03/2009

Havard to lead Bulls charge

There will no doubt be mixed emotions across the local football scene in Weston-super-Mare this week with the news that prolific Weston bred front man Ryan Havard is to move the short distance across the Woodspring Stadium from Weston-super-Mare to tenants Langford Rovers.

You can expect a few tears to be shed amongst supporters of the Seagulls for a player who is immensely popular both on and off the pitch whilst contrasting emotions of delight will no doubt be the order of the day at Langford where Havard will become arguably the biggest signing in the history of the Bulls.

26 year old Ryan started the season on fire in Weston colours making his first start and scoring his first goal in the second game of the campaign at pre-season title favourites Havant & Waterlooville.

He subsequently netted in the next fixture at the Beveree, home of Hampton & Richmond but was surprisingly dropped to the bench for the following game when the Seagulls entertained Worcester City.

After that opportunities where largely limited with many feeling that Havard missed out on selection solely on the basis of having a ï¿½lesser reputationï¿½ than some of his colleagues.

Despite only seeing glimpses of the action from September onwards the former Weston St. Johns man scored a noteworthy 6 goals from only 8 starts across all competitions.

Having recently returned from a month loan spell at BGB Southern League Premier division side Mangotsfield United the striker who can also count Yate Town, Clevedon Town and Taunton Town amongst his former clubs saw four other recognised strikers ahead of him in the pecking order at Weston and despite reported interest from one club understood to be in Conference South and five in the Southern League he opted for Langford.

Weston Manager Andrew Gurney was sad to see Havard depart and has not closed the door on a potential future return.

Gurney commented ï¿½We had a chat and he has not really enjoyed his football for the last three or four months and he feels that he needs to go and play at a bit of a lower level to get his love for the game back.

He is still going to be involved with us and come training on a Tuesday and Thursday night and I have said that we still want him in and around the place and the door is not shut on him by any means.

He needs to go and find some enjoyment for himself as much as anything and once he gets that enjoyment and buzz back there is no reason why he canï¿½t come back and do a job for us again.

We will watch this space.ï¿½

Ryan joins an ambitious, hungry Langford side who are certainly on the up.

They say that ï¿½a year is a long time in footballï¿½ and that particular phrase would appear to be written for Rovers.

This time last year they where the fifth most senior side within the towns boundary behind Weston, Weston St. Johns (then in division 1 of the Western League), Worle and Westland United however following their Division 2 West title success in the Somerset County League combined with the enforced relegation of Weston St. Johns and aided by a stunning start to the season they currently find only Weston above them in the pecking order.

James Daniel Crandon, widely regarded as the best young managerial talent in the North Somerset area has overseen the progression and was understandably delighted to get Havard on board.

Crandon commented ï¿½A move for Ryan was not something that I could of turned down really.

We have got a good side and he is probably the only local player that I would have taken on.

I have managed him before and know what I get from him and for me he is the best player in Weston-super-Mare.ï¿½

Havard is expected to make his Langford bow at the Woodspring Stadium this Saturday when Rovers entertain Portishead Town Reserves in Division One of the Somerset County League in a game that kicks off at 3pm and with the Bulls currently occupying 5th spot and three promotion places available Ryan could well be the man to fire them to promotion.

Another club set to benefit is the ambitious Weston United who are understood to have held positive talks with the striker with a view to him registering on District Forms for them.

599 - 02/03/2009

After match interview with Weston Manager Andrew Gurney

Weston Manager Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the Club website following the Blue Square Conference South fixture at Fisher Athletic.

Extracts of the Interview are as follows.:-

If I could start by asking your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game please?

A. G.: ï¿½It was a good, professional performance really.

These games can be tricky.

The pitch was poor and they (Fisher) are still fighting for every point that they can.

It was a very good, solid, professional performance with a clean sheet which was very pleasing.

It was a must win game for us today and the lads have come, dug in and give a good performance to get a big, big three points for us.ï¿½

It was very comfortable wasnï¿½t it?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

It was.

There is always a danger that they might knick something out of nothing when you are that comfortable.

In the second half we made a little hard work of it at times and where a little bit sloppy in pieces but in the main, like I say, it was a decent professional away performance to get three points which was all that mattered today really.ï¿½

What where your first impressions of Scott Bartlett?

A. G.:ï¿½He did very well.

He is your ï¿½Mr Consistencyï¿½ type of player really.

He can play in one or two positions.

You know exactly what you are going to get out of him.

He works hard and is good on the ball.

He has put in a good performance today and hopefully he can continue to do that for us.ï¿½

Will there be any more player movement, either in or out this season?

A. G.: ï¿½No.

I donï¿½t think so.

We have had to bring a few in with the injuries that we have got.

We are happy with what we have got.

We have got 12 games left now and we have got to go find those wins that we need now to make sure that we stay in this division.

The way we have been doing we are certainly more than capable of that.ï¿½

598 - 28/02/2009

Purnell makes league bow

Popular Weston Bread goalkeeper Luke Purnell makes his first league start for Weston-super-Mare at Fisher Athletic today in Blue Square South.

The former Great Britain and England Colleges custodian replaces Ryan Northmore who is absent with family commitments.

597 - 27/02/2009

Weston bolster injury ravaged squad with double signing boost

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have bolstered their injury ravaged squad with the double signing boost of Scott Bartlett and Alex Kite.

Last Saturday Darren Mullings became the latest player to join the injured list when he collided with the perimeter fencing at the Woodspring Stadium during the League fixture with Braintree Town .

The powerful midfielder has had the injury diagnosed as a hairline fracture of the ankle and is expected to be out of action for up to 6 weeks.

Striker Scott Partridge is understood to have had an operation described as a ï¿½general clear upï¿½ on his knee at a hospital in Chesterfield on Tuesday and it is hoped that the front man may be ready for a return to action in two weeks.

Also ï¿½on the listï¿½ is striker/midfielder Ashan Holgate (who is understood to be 2-3 weeks away from a return after suffering a fractured ankle at Newport County) and left winger Mark McKeever.

McKeever is believed to of sustained a cartilage tear at Thurrock and requires an operation.

It is believed that the popular Irishman could make a comeback within 2 weeks of the op but he must face a frustrating wait on the NHS which could effectively rule him out for the season.

Midfielder Bartlett today put pen to paper on a two year contract at the Woodspring Stadium.

The 29 year old spent time on the books at AFC Bournemouth prior to joining Cirencester Town from where he moved to the Raymond EcEnhill Stadium in February 2008.

Salisbury born Bartlett has been a stalwart for the Whites and recently made his 400th appearance in City colours in the Blue Square Premier fixture at Barrow.

Also joining Weston is Alex Kite on a monthï¿½s loan from Bristol Rovers.

19 year old Kite the son of former Pirates goalkeeper and current physiotherapist Phil Kite currently holds squad number 24 at the Memorial Stadium and is described as a tough tackling central defender.

Although not yet to make his first team bow for Rovers, Kite was part of the first team squad for the F. A. Cup 1st Round tie with Rushden and Diamonds on the 1st of December 2007.

Earlier this season he made two appearances for Oxford City in a loan spell at the Court Place Farm Stadium.

In November Kite joined Chippenham Town on loan for a month, a move which was subsequently extended in to a second and then third month.

During his time at Hardenhuish Park he made 10 appearances and scored one goal.

With right back Michael Green due to sit out tomorrows trip to Fisher Athletic due to an accumulation of yellow cards and Captain Charlie Comyn-Platt soon to face a one match ban (that is expected to keep him out of the trip to Eastleigh), Kite will provide valuable defensive cover.

Both players are expected to be in the Weston 16 for the trip to the Champion Hill Stadium tomorrow.

596 - 26/02/2009

"Sound Bite"-Andrew Gurney on Bath City V Weston-super-Mare

Commenting on Weston-super-Mare F. C.'s Blue Square Conference South fixture at Bath City, First Team Manager Andrew Gurney commented "It was very disappointing. There was nothing in the first half. In the second half we started poorly and gave away a poor free-kick for the 1st goal. We wilted a little bit after that. It is the first time since i took the job that we showed a lack of heart and application. I thought Charlie's sending off was a bit disappointing and perhaps a bit harsh."

595 - 25/02/2009

Weston at the House of Lords

On Monday evening Weston Chairman Paul Bliss and President Dennis Usher along with Westonï¿½s MP John Penrose attended a Setanta sponsored reception at the Cholmondeley Room in the House of Lords.

All 68 Conference member clubs were present to hear speeches from Minister for Sport Gerry Sutcliffe and Chairman of the F. A. Lord Triesman.

The Meeting was intended to give the clubs the opportunity to meet their local MP and other influential parliamentarians and demonstrate to them the immense amount of good work that Conference clubs undertake in the community and the contribution that they make to their local area.

The clubs looked at ways to improve relations with the football league whilst the main topic of discussion was the lack of funding available for youth Development and Youth Football below League 2.

There is currently no money available from the F. A. towards youth set-upï¿½s below the professional ranks but after positive talks it is understood that money will now be available for the clubs in membership of the Conference and it is further understood that Weston-super-Mare will be looking to apply for membership of The Football Conference Youth League for the 2009/2010 season.

Weston Chairman Paul Bliss commented that ï¿½it is the way forwardï¿½.

Furthermore an invitation has been extended to and subsequently accepted by John Penrose MP to attend a Blue Square Conference South fixture at the Woodspring Stadium later this season.

594 - 25/02/2009

After match interview with Assistant Manager Chris Smith

Westonï¿½s Assistant Manager Chris Smith took time out to speak to the Club website following the home Blue Square Conference South fixture with Braintree Town .

Extracts of the Interview are as follows.:-

If I can start by asking your thoughtï¿½s on this afternoonï¿½s game please?

C. S.: ï¿½I thought we where superb today.

Made a big difference getting an early goal but probably played near enough as well as what we played last week and we ended up getting beat 2-1 last week.

Today I think they could not argue with 3-1 and where probably lucky to get away with 3-1.

We could of won 6 or 7 and I donï¿½t think that would have been flattering.

Great performance all round.

Everybody worked extremely hard and right up to the end.

Disappointed with the goal but it was just one of those things.

I think Greener wiped Northy out and the lad was left with a free-header but thankfully it didnï¿½t cost us.ï¿½

Like you alluded to, It could have been a lot more couldnï¿½t it?

C. S.: ï¿½Could of but you donï¿½t go missing your chances when you still win the game.

If you draw the game or end up getting beat, those chances cost you.

Today they havenï¿½t cost us.ï¿½

Bognorï¿½s result today (A 2-1 victory over Chelmsford ) perhaps puts our result against them last week in to perspective?

C. S.:ï¿½We probably gave them a shot up the arm by them beating us last week when they probably deserved to go back with absolutely nothing.

They have gone and turned over Chelmsford today so in hindsight we probably kick started their season for them, albeit a little late.ï¿½

A few words on what looked a nasty injury to Darren Mullings if you could please?

C. S.: ï¿½I think he is going to be doubtful which is a blow but we have got as strong a squad now as we have ever had.

We have got people like Marvin Brown and Dean Grubb who again have come on today and last week and made an impression, so you know it is about 16 or 17 players.

It is not about the 11 that go out there and if Daz is missing it will be a loss but somebody will come in and we wonï¿½t be any weaker to be fair.ï¿½

Added to Daz, we have got Ashan (Holgate), Macca (Mark McKeever), and Scotty (Scott Partridge) missing. Are you going to have to cover the absences from the players currently on the books or will you be allowed extra scope to bring people in?

C. S.: ï¿½I think so.

It is no secret that I think the budget is spent up.

The Chairman has been ever so good in enabling us to keep Manny Williams and I donï¿½t think that there is that freedom unless one or two move out to bring one or two in so it is a case of we donï¿½t want to lose anybody from the squad and you have seen today that Dayle Grubb gas come on and hasnï¿½t looked out of place at all so there is only one way to find out if they are good enough and that is to throw them in.

It is nice to put them on for 20 minutes when we are 3-0 up but occasionally that isnï¿½t always going to be the option so I think we will be running with what we have got from now until the end of the season.

The only thing I can see happening is if Woking call Manny back as they have a 24 hour call back, so we will just have to play it by ear.

Hopefully we will get another 3 wins and we wonï¿½t be that far away anyway.ï¿½

If I could finish by asking for a few words on Saturdayï¿½s opponents Fisher Athletic? I understand it could be there last game in existence?

C. S.:ï¿½Yes.

I hope not.

There is a couple of our players at the start of the season in Ludo (Ludovic Quistin) and Ced (Cedric Abraham) so I hope not.

I donï¿½t want to see any teams go out of the league or anything like that so hopefully they will get a stay of execution and see this season through and hopefully re-group and do whatever they need to do.ï¿½

593 - 25/02/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw Winners Week 14

Week 14 25 February 2009:

ï¿½1000 Rita Russell SA1468

ï¿½500 Mrs S Tidbull WD1574

ï¿½250 S McDonald SA4857

ï¿½125 Steven Keigher V5050

60 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

No Rollover Extra Prize winner (ticket 4235)- so next week Roll Over Extra Prize rises to ï¿½1500

592 - 22/02/2009

FANZONE

In the third of an occasional series Press Officer Simon Stephens interviewï¿½s a Weston Supporter following a Seagulls fixture. On Saturday, following Westonï¿½s Blue Square Conference South home fixture with Bognor Regis Town Mark Henry took time out to share his thoughts with the website. 40 year old Mark is a Salesman who livesï¿½ in Weston-super-Mare .

How long have you been following Weston?

M. H.: ï¿½7 years.ï¿½

And how did it come about that you became a Seagulls supporter?

M. H.: ï¿½Well the interest started really when I gave up my season ticket at Anfield. I am a big Liverpool fan but I came back to Weston as it is my local club. I used to watch the guys when I was a kid. Keith Coombs was from Wyvern School and I remember the Clay pitch and the fact that we used to get in for nothing. I watched them up until about 84 and then lost interest. I probably came back about 7 years back.ï¿½

What have been your highlights watching Weston? What are the plusses that you notice here over the Premier League stuff?

M. H.: ï¿½What I would say to you is this.-You get to know the players on first name terms. You can actually talk to them about how they have done and also the camaraderie is fantastic. You get close to it and players become your mates.ï¿½

Your thoughts on the season so far?

M. H.: ï¿½To be honest with you I think we will stay up. Hopefully not by default because the last two seasonï¿½s has been pretty embarrassing in my opinion. I think we play some good football and hopefully, fingers crossed we will on merit stay up.ï¿½

That would be your minimum target? You canï¿½t see us exceeding that?

M. H.: ï¿½For this season. Yes. Definitely.ï¿½

The next two, three, four seasons-Do you see yourself continuing to follow us? And where do you see the club heading?

M. H.: ï¿½I will obviously follow the club for as long as I breathe and I am hoping that in the next two or three years we will be in the Conference proper and who knows? It all depends on budget and the sort of quality of player that we get in and the Crowds. The Crowds are rubbish.ï¿½

What more do you think that the club can do to increase the Crowds?

M. H.: ï¿½The Press coverage is fantastic and a big improvement on last season and in terms of publicity I canï¿½t see much more that the Club can do but results speak a million words. Obviously if we can stay up this season I would appeal to try for the Bristol City and Rovers fans to take on board that when these guys are playing away that they turn up and watch Weston because it is not a Mickey Mouse league that we are playing in and it is the highest league that we have played in, in our entire history. Why donï¿½t they come?-That is my question and hopefully it can be answered because to me it is sacrilegious. It doesnï¿½t matter what level, even going back to 1982 at the clay pitch at Langford Road , Weston where still pushing 200 fans and they still do that now, 2-300 and I think that is shocking.ï¿½

Popular opinion suggests that this is the strongest Weston side that the Club has ever seen? It must surely be a case of fair play to the Chairman who has put his money where his mouth is?

M. H.: ï¿½I would say so. Weston at the moment, they are playing in a good league, they have got a squad that has got strength in depth and Paul Bliss himself has put so much money in to this. The only thing I would say is yes it is a great side and it is a high level of football but the only thing that lacks at Weston is the fans. Nobody turns up. We are still looking at between 200-300 and we should be looking at 500-600 minimum.ï¿½

Is there anything that you could see that the Club could do to improve itï¿½s operations off the field?

M. H.: ï¿½Maybe. Perhaps they should go round the Schools? Allowing kids in for free? They should be going to all the Childrenï¿½s social events and youth events and that sort of stuff and promoting the place. All the Schools. You get the odd couple of kids turn up. but to be fair they should do grandstand tours of the club and let kids in for free, nothing, absolutely free because the place is hardly choc a. To be fair we have got a hard core fan base of probably about a hundred that will always come, wind, rain or shine but as for promotion it is about the next generation. They are missing out. They are all Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool fans and they should support their local team. There is a lot of local football clubs around such as Nomads, Crusaders, etc, etc. They should come down here and let these guys in for nothing and let them sample the delights of local, home grown, talent because when you come down to grass roots trust me, it is fantastic. It is a great day out.ï¿½

591 - 18/02/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw Winners Week 13

Week 13 18 February 2009:

ï¿½1000 Mr Addis H0102

ï¿½500 Louise Wessels WG0107

ï¿½250 Mr Jackson R3237

ï¿½125 W Burgess Y2305

69 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

No Rollover Extra Prize winner (ticket 2163)- so next week Roll Over Extra Prize rises to ï¿½1000

590 - 17/02/2009

After match interview with First Team Manager Andrew Gurney

Westonï¿½s First Team Manager Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the Club website following the home Blue Square Conference South fixture with Bognor Regis Town, to share his thoughts on the afternoonï¿½s game, debutant Jack Compton, to update the supporters on the expected absence of the injured trio of Ashan Holgate, Mark McKeever and Scott Partridge, to look ahead to Saturdayï¿½s game with Braintree Town and to look back on his first 3 months in Management.

If I can start by asking your thoughtï¿½s on this afternoonï¿½s game please?

A. G.: ï¿½I am a little bit lost for words really.

It was a game where if you sat back and watched it again on a video it would be a mystery as to how we hadnï¿½t won it.

They have scored a decent goal really, in all fairness in the first half.

We have had good situations and not taken them and then in the second half we have just bombarded their goal really and how we have not scored more than one goal is unbelievable.

They get a little ricochet at the end which falls straight to one of their lads foot and it is one of those days a little bit where nothing has really gone our way.ï¿½

We probably had at least 80% of the play?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

That would be no exaggeration I think.

Their keeper has pulled off a couple of great saves, we have not had the bounce of the ball in the box and it sounds like making excuses but anyone that was here can clearly see that we are not.

The luck has totally gone against us today and it has happened here over the last few weeks on so many occasions I am sure that someone has put a curse on the place or something.ï¿½

Surely we are due a change of luck soon and for those things to go in our favour?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

Again, I canï¿½t knock any of the playerï¿½s as they have all done well today.

The two subs that have come on have done well Marvin has got a great goal which is good to see.

He hasnï¿½t played for weeks and weeks and he has been left out but in fairness to him his attitude has been different class in the time that he hasnï¿½t played and he has come on today, looked lively and got his goals.

Dean Grubb did the same, looked lively.

Everyone today.

I thought I could only praise them really and we certainly havenï¿½t deserved to lose the game.

It is very, very frustrating and disappointing as we should of got something out of the game.

The Referee has probably missed two penalty decisions towards us as well but we will just have to pick ourselves up, dust ourselves down and go again next week nowï¿½

A few words on debutant Jack Compton if I may please?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

Jack, he looked good.

I think we saw in flashes what he has got today.

You have seen that he has got great delivery.

I think he could be a good signing for us and he is certainly a decent addition.ï¿½

Are you still actively looking for targets?

I saw in the press that we where reported to have been interested in Kidderminster Harriersï¿½s Sam Foley?

Is that correct?

A. G.: ï¿½I seem to be reading in the Press about all sorts of players but I donï¿½t know where the stories are coming from.

That is news to me.

The Aaron Blakemore one in the Evening Post on Friday was news to me so where these stories are coming from I donï¿½t know.ï¿½

Are you able to give me an update on the injuries sustained by Ashan Holgate, Mark McKeever and Scott Partridge?

Can you tell me how long you expect them to be out for?

A. G.:ï¿½I think they are still reasonably long term in terms of 4-6 weeks really.

Scott Partridge as well I think is going to be missing for the best part of 2-3 weeks with a swollen knee.ï¿½

If I could ask you for a few words on Braintree Town ahead of our game with them next Saturday please?

A. G.: ï¿½It will be the same again.

We played well at their place earlier in the season and if we play like we did today then we will get three points.

We canï¿½t play like we did today again and not get any points out of the game.

We played some good football and created chance after chance but not just been able to get that little bit of luck.ï¿½

If I could finish by asking:-

It is now approximately 3 months in to your managerial career, How are you finding it?

Are you enjoying it?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

I am.

It has been enjoyable.

Obviously we would of liked more wins and probably deserved more wins but no, I am enjoying it.ï¿½

You seem to have a good rapport with the Chairman?

You seem to respect each other?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

I think so.

It is working well.

I am enjoying it very much and want to be here for a long period of time and improve our league position and keep on improving and I think we are doing that.

I think that the people, the supporters that come in and watch appreciate that.ï¿½

It is widely regarded that the current Weston side is the strongest that the club has ever had.

I think the Supporters are genuinely excited and that you have the respect of people.

You wouldnï¿½t know it to look at the crowds though which are shocking but saying that, I donï¿½t know what more you can do really?

A. G.: ï¿½It is what it is and I am sure that if we start winning a few more games then a few more people will come through the gate.

It has been enjoyable and you know, I think it could be an exciting place to be over the next couple of years if we can keep improving and that might sound daft because we got beat today but anyone who was there knows that we didnï¿½t deserve to be and thingï¿½s are going in the right direction now.ï¿½

589 - 17/02/2009

January Player of the Month

Prior to Saturday's Blue Square Conference South home fixture with Bognor Regis Town Craig Rand was presented with the Weston-super-Mare F. C. Player of the Month Award for January 2009.

Craig makes history by becoming the first player to win back to back awards after also scooping the December prize.

The January accolade was kindly sponsored by Capille & Co. Building Solutions of Weston-super-Mare and presented on their behalf by Simon Stephens who also doubles as the club's Press Officer.

This is not the first time that Mr. Aston Capille and his company have supported the club and Weston-super-Mare F. C. urge all supporters and patrons to support Capille & Co. wherever possible.

588 - 16/02/2009

YOUTH GAME POSTPONED

TONIGHTS (16/02) YOUTH GAME AGAINST BRISLINGTON HAS BEEN POSTPONED. NO NEW DATE HAS BEEN SET.

587 - 11/02/2009

Double signing boost for Seagulls

Weston-super-Mare F. C. have bolstered their squad for the Blue Square Conference South run-in with the captures of Tomaso Parrinello and Jack Compton.

Defender Parrinello initially joined Weston on a monthï¿½s loan from Bristol Rovers in time to make his debut at Bishopï¿½s Stortford on the 20th of December.

A number of solid performances from the left-back subsequently saw the move extended in to a second month and now the Pirates have released the 19 year old from his contract to enable him to put pen to paper on an 18 month contract at the Woodspring Stadium.

Left winger Compton has most recently been at Westonï¿½s divisional rivals Havant & Waterlooville where he has started four times and came off the bench once in the Hawks five last games.

The Torquay born 20 year old has also represented Brighton & Hove Albion and Blue Square Premier side Lewes.

586 - 11/02/2009

Gold Striker Winners Week 12 -Weston scoop ï¿½500 winner

>Week 12 11 February 2009:

ï¿½1000 Miss J Capper H0277

ï¿½500 Mrs L Thornton WC2473

ï¿½250 JD Bannister X1482

ï¿½125 M Armitage Y3200

58 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

Rollover Extra Prize winner - Susan Robinson icket no. U4848 wins ï¿½4000!

585 - 09/02/2009

Double signing coup for Weston

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare F. C. are delighted to announce that they have secured two of their brightest talents for an extended period.

Centre-back Craig Rand has signed a two year extension to his current deal which will keep him at the Woodspring Stadium until the summer of 2011.

26 year old Geordie, Rand returned to the Weston 11 at Maidenhead on the 6th of December following 10 months out with injury and made such an impact in his first month back that he won the clubs player of the month accolade for December and was subsequently understood to of been the subject of interest from League Two promotion chasers Darlington and League One play-off candidates Peterborough United.

Central midfielder Darren Mullings has joined Rand in putting pen to paper on an 18 month contract that will see him remain in Weston colourï¿½s until the summer of 2010.

The Bristol born former Bristol Rovers 21 year old who has represented England Collegeï¿½s and England Schoolboys has proved his adaptability when pressed in to service at centre-back and centre-forward and has been in impressive form this season which was rewarded with him winning the clubï¿½s player of the month accolade for October.

Both players are expected to form the cornerstone of a Weston side that Chairman Paul Bliss hopes will be in a position to push for promotion in the 2010/2011 season.

584 - 07/02/2009

Weston-super-Mare F. C. V Frome Town: Match-POSTPONED

Weston-super-Mare F. C.'s game against Frome Town on Monday evening in the Premier Division of the Somerset Floodlight Youth League has been postponed due to the recent inclement weather conditions.

As yet, no new date has been set for the fixture.

Weston Youth are next scheduled to be in action on Monday the 16th of February when they host Brislington at the Woodspring Stadium in the Premier Division of the Somerset Floodlight Youth League.

Supporters can check on potential cancellations by calling the Club Call line on (01934)647323.

583 - 07/02/2009

NEW FIXTURE DATES

Weston-super-Mare F. C. have announced new date's for two of their Blue Square Conference South fixtures.

The game at Team Bath which was postponed on New Year's Day due to a Frozen pitch will now take place on Tuesday the 17th Of March with a 7:45pm Kick-Off.

The home fixture with Havant & Waterlooville which was postponed due to the Hawks involvement in the F. A. Trophy will now take place on Monday the 23rd of March and will also Kick-Off at 7:45pm.

The new date for the Havant game means that Weston Youth team's potential "title decider" with Mangotsfield United in the Premier Division of the Somerset Floodlight Youth League will have to be moved but as yet no new date has been set for the game.

582 - 06/02/2009

MATCH POSTPONED

Tomorrows match away at Hayes & Yeading United has been postponed. As yet no new date has been set.

581 - 04/02/2009

No break but lengthy absence for Holgate

The ankle injury sustained by Weston-super-Mare midfielder Ashan Holgate in the Blue Square Conference South fixture at Newport County last Wednesday has been diagnosed as ruptured ligaments and not a break as was one of the initial feared possibilities.

22 year old Holgate had to be replaced by Marc McGregor a minute before the interval at Spyttty Park following a reckless challenge from the Exiles on loan Bath City midfielder Scott Rogers.

Swindon based Ashan was originally put in a plaster cast at the Royal Gwent Hospital but has now had the cast removed and been fitted with a pneumatic walking brace (more commonly known as a ï¿½space bootï¿½.) .

The walking brace is a step in the right direction towards rehabilitation as it can be taken on and off which means that treatment can be started earlier than it could be in semi-permanent plaster.

An initial estimate has suggested that Holgate will face a further 3-5 weeks out of action.

Ashan has yet to miss a Seagulls fixture since sustaining the injury as he was due to sit out Saturdayï¿½s home Blue Square South fixture with St. Albans City through a one game suspension as a result of an accumulation of bookingï¿½s.

580 - 04/02/2009

Gold Striker Weekly Draw Winners

>Week 11 4 February 2009:

ï¿½1000 D Wallwork Y1254

ï¿½500 Brian Adamson W1225

ï¿½250 Joan Davidson L4446

ï¿½125 Mrs Mckeown R3586

78 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

No Rollover Extra Prize winner - next week Rollover Extra rises to ï¿½4000.

579 - 03/02/2009

After match interview with First Team Manager Andrew Gurney

Westonï¿½s First Team Manager Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the Club website following the home Blue Square Conference South fixture with St. Albans City, to share his thoughtï¿½s on the afternoonï¿½s game, his feelings on being handed the managerï¿½s job on a permanent basis and to look ahead to the clubï¿½s aim to push for the Blue Square Premier in the 2010/2011 season.:-

If I can start by asking your thoughtï¿½s on this afternoonï¿½s game please?

A. G.: ï¿½We never hit the first half.

Not at the races at all really.

Didnï¿½t start at all.

Didnï¿½t win any of the second balls.

They where the first to everything and I think it took a few harsh words at half-time to get us going and in the second half it was like a totally different team to be fair.

We brought Macca (Marc McGregor) on to change it and in fairness to Macca he changed the game.

He held the ball up for us.

We got a little bit of play going a little bit and fair play to them because I have had a pop at them at half-time and they have reacted to it.

Maybe we could of won the game in the end but like I said, it was a very poor first half but they responded to it which in one way is really pleasing but I said to them after the game that it is two pointsï¿½ dropped really because of the way we started the game.

If we had of started the game the way we started the second half then we would of won the game without a doubt.ï¿½

A good run of recent form though? You must be reasonably pleased with 7 points from the last four games?

A. G.: ï¿½We where looking for three points from today though to be honest.

For me, from my point of view it was two pointsï¿½s dropped because of the way we started the game.

You start games like that and you are always going to be on the back foot a little bit but they have responded and credit to them for that.ï¿½

I understand that the Chairman has confirmed today that you have been handed the job on a permanent basis? Congratulations. You must be delighted?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

Definitely.

I am delighted.

It was my aim to keep the job and I think everyone has been pleased with what they have seen although we have lost a few games that we didnï¿½t want to but performances in general have been very good.

I think the response I have had since I took the job from the players and everyone else has been fantastic and if we continue in that vain we are going to be o. k. this season.ï¿½

The consensus around the club and on the terraces suggests that this is the strongest Weston 11 that we have seen for a number of years.

That must please you? And bodes well for the future?

A. G.: ï¿½Yeah.

Hopefully.

When I got given the opportunity I wasnï¿½t just looking at the short term.

I was hoping that I could try and build something and that is what we are trying to do and obviously we have got to make sure that we try and stay in this league this season and move on from there.ï¿½

The Chairman has gone public in saying that he wants us to stay in this division for this season and the next and then in time for the 2010/2011 season he hopes to have fundraising initiatives in place to make a push for the Blue Square Premier.

That must excite and invigorate both yourself and the supporters alike?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

Hopefully so.

It has been made public like you say that this year and next we need to make sure we stay in this league and then there might be the opportunity to push on a little bit and hopefully that will be the case and I will be the person to drive forward with that.ï¿½

It would be nice to see more supporters at the games as they have got a value for money product on show and the Chairman and the Players perhaps deserve support in greater numbers and greater volume?

A. G.:ï¿½Yes but I think it takeï¿½s a winning team to do that, so if we can keep improving which I think we have done in the past two monthï¿½s, then the better we do, then the more people that come through the turnstiles.

I think the majority have been pleased with what they have seen and if they can pass that on to their friends and family then maybe more will come down and have a look.ï¿½

And if I could finish by asking for your thoughtï¿½s on Hayes and Yeading ahead of our game with them next Saturday?

A. G.: ï¿½Again it will be another difficult game.

They are having a good season.

We know we are more than capable of matching anyone on our day in this league.

Since I have had the job I donï¿½t think we have been outplayed, outfought or well beaten by anybody really.

Even the Hampton game when we got beaten 3-0, it could of easily been 3-0 the other way at one point of the game so we can go there and look for three pointï¿½s and which we will try and do every week.ï¿½

578 - 02/02/2009

Gurney keeps Weston Job

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have handed former Reading and Swansea City midfielder Andrew Gurney the Managerï¿½s job at the Woodspring Stadium on a permanent basis after a trial spell that impressed the clubï¿½s hierarchy and supporters alike.

The 35 year old who can also list Bristol Rovers and Swindon Town amongst his former clubï¿½s took up the managerial reigns on the 1st of December following the sacking of Tony Ricketts and was given until the 31st of January to earn the right to keep the job on a full-time basis.

Gurney has presided over a number of impressive signingï¿½s including the transfer of Adie Harris from Newport County, the signature of vastly experienced striker Scott Partridge from Sheffield FC and the loan captureï¿½s of Tomaso Parrinello and Emmanuel Williams whilst overseeing a run of 7 points from the last four games that have seen the Seagulls move ever further away from the drop zone.

Commenting on the decision to keep Andy at the club Weston Chairman Paul Bliss commented ï¿½I said to Andy that as far as I am concerned, he has got as long as it takes.

I am confident he is going to do a good job and I think the playerï¿½s have responded to him and that is what really matters.

The other important thing was that he utilised the money that was sitting there as we needed two or three playersï¿½ and he got them.ï¿½

Gurney himself was understandably pleased and said ï¿½I am delighted.

It was my aim to keep the job and I think everyone has been pleased with what they have seen so far.

The response I have had from the playerï¿½s and everyone has been fantastic.

When I got given the opportunity I wasnï¿½t looking at the short term, I wanted to build something.

It has been made public that our aim for this season and next has to be to stay in this division and then the club hope to be in a position to be able to push for the Blue Square Premier and hopefully that will be the case and I will be the person charged to drive forward with that.ï¿½

576 - 31/01/2009

Charlie to sit out St. Albans clash

Centre-back Charlie Comyn-Platt will be forced to sit out Weston-super-Mare F. C.'s home Blue Square Conference South fixture with St. Albans City today.

The Seagulls Captain has accumalated 5 booking's this season and will serve a one game suspension.

577 - 31/01/2009

HAVANT game off on Monday

Havant's F.A.Trophy game today (Saturday) has been postponed and will now take place on Tuesday (Taking Prescedence over the League Match)

575 - 30/01/2009

Manny stays a Seagull

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare are delighted to announce that they have extended the loan of striker Emmanuel Williams from Blue Square Premier division side Woking until Friday the 17th of April. The Woodspring Stadium based club missed the deadline to extend the loan for the rest of the season and have increased the period to the maximum 93 days permitted under league and F. A. rules.

The Freetown born front man has been a revelation since joining Weston, making his debut at Thurrock, scoring the 3rd goal against Fisher Athletic and most recently appearing at Newport County on Wednesday evening and has impressed the Seagulls hierarchy enough in three games to be offered the longest loan term possible.

The only games Williams would miss would be the final home fixture of the season against Welling United (18th of April) and the trip to Essex to face Chelmsford City, 7 days later on Saturday the 25th of April in the season finale, By which time Weston hope to have secured their Blue Square Conference South status for another season.

574 - 29/01/2009

After match interview with First Team Assistant Manager Chris Smith

Westonï¿½s Assistant Manager Chris Smith took time out to speak to the Club website following the Blue Square Conference South fixture at Newport County and to share his thoughtï¿½s on the eveningï¿½s game, the injury to Ashan Holgate, the recent loan moves of Ryan Havard and Ryan Paddock, the current strength of the Weston squad, to look ahead to Saturdayï¿½s fixture with St. Albans and to share his opinion on where he thinks the Seagulls will finish in the final table.:-

If I could start by asking your thoughtï¿½s on tonightï¿½s game please?

C. S.: ï¿½I thought we did really well in the first half.

I thought we where slightly the better side in the first half.

Losing Ash was probably the turning point. I donï¿½t think we really recovered from that come second half.

I thought it had 0-0 written all over it.

We didnï¿½t do particularly well for the goal. They got the goal and we chased it a little bit and it opened up.

They could of hit us on the break but we didnï¿½t create, we didnï¿½t pass the ball and keep the ball second half and I am just disappointed really because we couldnï¿½t fault the work rate and the commitment of the boys.

It is just with Ash getting injured as well it is just a bit of a downer on the whole night.ï¿½

Do you think we deserved at least a point from the game on the balance of play?

C. S.: ï¿½Probably.

I donï¿½t think neither side looked particularly good tonight if I am totally honest.

They got the first goal which was all important and that just allowed them to sit back a little bit and hit us on the break.

It is disappointing that we didnï¿½t put the ball in better areas. The front two got starved of any decent quality second half but it wasnï¿½t through us not giving a toss or not working hard because we did. We just lacked a little bit of quality and we just didnï¿½t pass the ball.

I think we struggled to put three or four passes together.

First half we had the best chance of the game when Manny got slipped in with just the keeper to beat and it was a good little move but just one of those nights. A sad night really. I hope Ash is alright. He is down the Hospital at the moment.ï¿½

A poor challenge?

C. S.: ï¿½Bad Challenge and you know, people keep telling me that Scotty is not like that and I know Scotty and he is a lovely kid and he isnï¿½t like that but it was a flipping bad challenge at the end of the day.

The only thing that was worse than the challenge was the officialï¿½s.

All night.

For both sideï¿½s.

Not just for us but for both sides.

Absolutely poor and not up to it.ï¿½

I understand that early talk is of a break ?

C. S.: ï¿½Letï¿½s hope not but that is the first impressionï¿½s that he has broke it just above the ankle.

He was in a lot of pain.

It was a bad challenge.

Itï¿½s frustrating.

It wasnï¿½t a freak accident. It was a bad, late challenge but the annoying thing is that just literally two seconds before that there is a bad challenge on the right hand side that the Ref could of blown up for.

He has let play go on and then the bad challenge happens which injures Ash so if he had of done his job properly and blown up on the first challenge, easy in hindsight but it was that bad a foul and then the second doesnï¿½t happen.ï¿½

Ironically perhaps, that had the agreement not been in place that prevented Adie from playing then the chances are that Ash would of not been in the 11?

C. S.: ï¿½Well.

Yeah.

Adie would of definitely played but that is one of those thingï¿½s and you canï¿½t do anything about that now.

Of course that was wrote in the agreement and we wanted him desperately at the time and I think we would of signed anything.ï¿½

Are you able to tell me anymore about the recent loan moves of Ryan Havard (Mangotsfield United) and Ryan Paddock (Bishops Cleeve) and how they are progressing?

C. S.:ï¿½Ryan Havard got sent off on Saturday which is probably the last thing he needed.

It was two bookableï¿½s so he misses a game.

Ryan Paddock came off the bench and did well.

They are both out just to get some football which just showï¿½s you the competition we have got because you look at the bench now and we have got a strong bench.ï¿½

This is the biggest squad I can remember at Weston for a fair while, what about you?

C. S.: ï¿½Yes we have.

We have but we need it.

As we said we get injuries like we did tonight and people on loan and all of a sudden we have still got kids on the bench.ï¿½

Would you agree that the current team is the strongest Weston 11 for a number of years?

C. S.: ï¿½I said that today.

I said that in the Dressing Room.

It is the strongest squad of playerï¿½s I have ever had anything to do with in my time at Weston.

I totally agree.ï¿½

Looking ahead to St. Albans ï¿½. After a couple of great victories we shouldnï¿½t get too wrapped up in tonightï¿½s result?

C. S.: ï¿½Yeah.

They are easily forgotten though if we donï¿½t get anything on Saturday so we just re-group and dust ourselves down.

We show the same effort and work rate that we did tonight and with a bit more quality then we will get a result at home to St. Albans .

I just hope that the pitch is nice and flat because we need a flat pitch to pass the ball because we have got footballers in the side.

We havenï¿½t got big battlerï¿½s who just run all day and head it and kick it.

We have got people who want to play and want to get it down so that is my only hope for Saturday.ï¿½

If I could finish by asking you where you think we will finish in the final league table?

C. S.: ï¿½I would settle for four or five from bottom to be totally honest.ï¿½

We look much better than that though donï¿½t we?

C. S.: ï¿½Yes we do. Yes we do but letï¿½s not run before we can walk.ï¿½

573 - 29/01/2009

Double injury blow rocks Weston

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have been rocked by a double injury blow that will deprive them of two of their first team squad member's for a lengthy period of time at what is a critical stage of the season.

Left winger Mark McKeever picked up an ankle injury in the game at Thurrock which has subsequently been diagnosed as ligament damage and the popular Irishman is expected to be out of action for a further 3-5 weeks.

Midfielder/Striker Ashan Holgate (Pictured) was subject to a dangerous tackle from Newport County's Scott Rogers in Wednesday night's league fixture at Spytty Park and had to be stretchered from the pitch a minute before the interval.

The Swindon bred 22 year old was put in plaster at the Royal Gwent Hospital on Wednesday evening and will face a check up at his local hospital in Swindon tomorrow (Friday).

It is understood that medical opinion was split on the injury Holgate sustained with a break, a dislocation and a serious strain being put forward as opinion's from the Doctor's who viewed the x-ray's.

With injuries such as these it is thought that the bones begin to heal themselves after 5 days and at that point it is possible that a further x-ray will be taken which will give a much more accurate diagnosis.

Depending on the outcome a rough estimate would suggest that Holgate could face anything from 6-12 weeks on the sidelines with the worst case scenario making it a season finishing injury.

Weston-super-Mare F.C. would like to place on record their thanks to the Medical Staff at Newport County who's prompt and professional service meant that Ashan was able to be in hospital within 20 minutes of sustaining the injury.

All at Weston-super-Mare F. C. extend their best wishes to Ash.

572 - 28/01/2009

Gold Striker Draws and Winners

Week 9 21 January 2009:

ï¿½1000Mrs M Davis Y2940

ï¿½500Mrs Bolton B0661

ï¿½250Mr Brophy SA1523

ï¿½125Marie Baird L2184

65 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

No Rollover Extra Prize winner

Week 10 28 January 2009:

ï¿½1000Mrs S Smith G3821

ï¿½500Mrs S Hiam K3575

ï¿½250Mr Moss R1739

ï¿½125Mr Skoins SB0487

63 Consolation Prizes of ï¿½10

No Rollover Extra Prize winner - next week Rollover Extra rises to ï¿½3500.

571 - 26/01/2009

Clarky secures "Terrace Legend" status

Prior to kick-off at Weston-super-Mare F. C.'s Blue Square Conference South home fixture with Fisher Athletic on Saturday a special presentation was made to Academy graduate Samuel Clark by Sean Burke on behalf of the Weston supporters.

Local boy Sam scored the winning goal in the Derby fixture against Weston's oldest and bitterest rivals Clevedon Town (affectionately known as The Pondlife by Seagulls fans) on Tuesday December the 2nd in what was Andrew Gurney's first game as Weston Manager.

The Weston supporters wanted to commemorate the occasion and all chipped in for the accolade.

570 - 26/01/2009

Paddock joins Bishops Cleeve on loan

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have loaned centre-back Ryan Paddock to BGB Southern League Division One South & West side Bishops Cleeve for an initial period of a month.

20 year old former Bristol Rovers youngster Paddock has seen opportunities limited at the Woodspring Stadium this season and it is hoped that the move will benefit all parties and give the player some much needed game time and match sharpness.

The Seagulls currently have central midfielder James Palmer on loan at BGB Southern League Premier Division side Gloucester City and centre forward Ryan Havard on loan at fellow BGB Premier side Mangotsfield United.

Havard was sent off after 70 minutes of his Field debut on Saturday following his second yellow card.

569 - 24/01/2009

Game ON.

The playing surface at the Woodspring Stadium has passed an early morning pitch inspection and today's Blue Square Conference South fixture with Fisher Athletic will go ahead.

Kick-Off is at 3PM.

565 - 23/01/2009

Havard joins Mango's on loan

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have loaned centre forward Ryan Havard to BGB Southern League Premier Division side Mangotsfield United for an initial period of a month.

The popular Weston bred frontman is expected to go straight in to the Mango's 11 for this Saturday's home league fixture with Bashley.

26 year old Havard had a blistering start to the current campaign scoring 5 goals from 8 starts across all competition's before seeing Marc McGregor and Marvin Brown preferred as the first choice front pairing.

Scott Partridge and Woking loanee Emmanuel Williams are expected to form the Seagulls front two for the next month at least and Weston Manager Andrew Gurney said he expects it to be a move to benefit all parties.

Gurney said "Mangotsfield got in touch and expressed an interest in Ryan. He hasn't been getting much game time since the start of the season and i hope he goes there and scores a few goals, gets his match sharpness back and everyone will be a winner.

566 - 23/01/2009

Former Seagulls to face Weston this Saturday

In other news from around the Club Weston Secretary Stuart Marshall has confirmed that he expects Cedric Abraham and Ludovic Quistin to be part of the Fisher Athletic squad that visit's the Woodspring Stadium on Saturday.

Both player's where first team regulars for the Seagulls prior to their release in December but Weston helped to fix them up with their new employers and Marshall confirmed that no agreement was in place to stop them facing Weston for the Fish.

567 - 23/01/2009

Weston Legend helps out former Hammers team mate

In news from outside of the club it is confirmed that Weston legend Stuart Slater has signed for Eastern Counties League Premier Division side Wivenhoe Town.

Slater, now 39 who can count Celtic, Watford and Ipswich Town as well as the Seagulls and Forest Green Rovers amongst his former clubs is agreed to have signed to help out former West Ham team mate Julian Dicks who was appointed Manager of the Dragons at the beginning of January.

Stuart is expected to make his Wivenhoe debut at home to Haverhill Rovers this Saturday and all wish him and Julian (brother of former Weston player Grantley) well.

568 - 23/01/2009

Precautionary pitch inspection.

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare will hold a precautionary pitch inspection tomorrow morning prior to their league fixture with Fisher Athletic. The results of the inspection are expected to be on the Club Call Line from 9am.

Club Call Line:-(01934)647323.

564 - 20/01/2009

After match interview with First Team Manager Andrew Gurney (Thurrock V Weston-super-Mare,)

Westonï¿½s First Team Manager Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the Club website following the Blue Square Conference South fixture at Thurrock to share his thoughtï¿½s on the afternoon's game and the impact of new signing's Adrian Harris and Emmanuel Williams as well as the descision to extend the loan of Tomaso Parrinello.:-

Your thoughtï¿½s on this afternoonï¿½s game please?

A. G.: ï¿½Delighted to get that win.

We have deserved it for a few weeks now really with the performance's that we have been putting in and the way that we have been playing.

Today is probably the worst that we have played with the ball which is sod's law that we have won today but again the lads have worked their socks off and if you do that you get what you deserve. ï¿½

Your thought's on our two new faces?

A. G.: ï¿½Manny has done really well today.

It was difficult.

We didn't really get a lot of ball to the front two at times but you saw glimpses of what he is about. You saw his pace, decent touch and he has had a couple of snap shots.

I think he will be a good signing for us.ï¿½

"Adie is exactly what we had expected of him.

Full of passion and commitment.

Got in some great tackles and is a voice and a leader which is what we have brought him here for so will be two good signing's for us.

Do you see similarities between Adie and yourself as players?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

A little bit.

I don't want to compare him to anyone.

He is him.

He does a great job for us.

It is a great result and something that we want to build on now.ï¿½

Can you tell me how the move for Manny came about?

A. G.: ï¿½He did brilliant in this league last year and scored 30 odd goals and then he has gone to Woking and it hasn't quite happened for him so he was made available by them.

There was a few clubs interested in him but we managed to nick him which says a bit about us and that we don't want to be "little Weston" anymore.

We want to push on and to get somebody like him shows a little bit of ambition and that we want to push on and be a team that can compete with the good teams in this league.ï¿½

Has the move got the potential to go beyond the initial month?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

He is here for a month initially and we will see how it goes and if he does well we see what we can do to extend it.

Obviously it is just one game and we will see how the month goes.ï¿½

Tom Parrinello's loan move has been extended in to a second month?

He has been somebody who has been pretty much faultless since he has come to the club?

A. G.:ï¿½Yes.

He has been brilliant.

Very consistent.

Not at all flashy.

He goes about his job very quietly and i don't think he has put a foot wrong since he has been here so we are glad to have him another month and we will try to extend that beyond that hopefully if we can.ï¿½

You have got competition for places now? A bigger squad than we have had for a while? Are you under pressure to get rid of anyone?

A. G.: ï¿½I said that to the boys before the game.

There is a lot of people disappointed that they are not starting.

I have had to leave a couple out of the 16 today which just goes to show the strength that we have got in the squad now and it is good to have that competition.

Players know that they have got to perform to stay in the team now and all 11 have done that today and the lads that have come on.ï¿½

563 - 16/01/2009

Striker Results 14/01/09

ï¿½1000 winner Mick Peers G6831

ï¿½500 winner B Waterworth V4801

ï¿½250 winner Mrs Cunningham L2660

ï¿½125 winner C Evan SC2390

Plus 67 paying members with the same numbers but a different prefix win ï¿½10.

No rollover winner this week therefore rolling over to next week.

Good Luck!!!

Michelle Somers

Gold Striker.

562 - 15/01/2009

Manny Williams signs to pep up Seagulls strike force

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare are delighted to announce the capture of Manny Williams on a month's loan from Blue Square Premier side Woking.

The 27 year old striker joined the Cards in the Summer from Weston's divisional rivals Maidenhead United where he scored 30 goals last season and won the Magpies playersï¿½ and supportersï¿½ ï¿½player of the yearï¿½ awards in the process.

Manny began his career at Notts County and Millwall, representing England Schools. Subsequent moves took him to Concord Rangers, Bowers United, Leyton, Yeading, Leyton again and Maidenhead United.

Has a reputation as a very quick, skilful striker and the Cards had to fight off stiff competition to gain his signature.

Struggled to make an impact in the early part of the current campaign at the Kingfield Stadium and re-joined Maidenhead United on loan in early November. Returned to Kingfield at the end of December and was placed on the transfer list.

Manny is expected to go straight in to the Seagulls 16 for the trip to Thurrock on Saturday along with fellow new signing Adrian Harris who put pen to paper on a two and a half year contract at the Woodspring Stadium on Monday evening.

561 - 14/01/2009

Parrinello extends Weston stay whilst Harris sit's out Severnside derby

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have extended the loan of Tomaso Parrinello from Bristol Rovers for a further month.

The 19 year old left back has featured for 90 minutes in each of the Seagulls three competitive fixture's since his move from the Memorial Stadium as well as the friendly fixture at Highworth Town.

Parrinello filled the void left by the departure of Ludovic Quistin and has impressed Managment and Supporters alike.

The current agreement will run up to and including the valentine's day Blue Square Conference South home clash with Bognor Regis Town.

In other News it has been confirmed that new signing Adrian Harris will not be included in the Weston 16 for the Severnside Derby at Newport County on January 28th.

Exiles Manager Dean Holdsworth struck a gentlemen's agreement with his Weston counterpart Andrew Gurney that means Harris will sit out the clash.

Ironically Harris featured against Weston for County on the 2Oth of October and played a prominent role in rescuing a point for the visitors.

In response to an article in the South Wales media Weston Secretary Stuart Marshall confirmed that Harris has tied himself to the Seagulls until the Summer of 2011.

560 - 12/01/2009

Weston in Harris transfer coup

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare are delighted to announce the transfer coup signing of Adie Harris from Newport County.

27 year old Cardiff born Harris joins the Seagulls for an undisclosed 4 figure sum and has put pen to paper on a two and a half year contract that will tie him to the Woodspring Stadium based outfit until the Summer of 2011.

The ball winning central midfielder completed his football apprenticeship at Cardiff City before moving on to Merthyr Tydfil.

Adie has subsequently gone on to enjoy a distinguished career in Non-League football earning International recognition for Wales at Semi-Professional level.

He has also played for Llanelli, Haverfordwest County (in two spells) and Hornchurch when they where challenging for Conference South honours.

Harris was a regular for Bath City in the 2007-2008 season and made a career total of 99 appearances and 19 substitute appearances for the Romans whilst scoring 7 goals in the process.

He joined Newport in June 2008.

559 - 07/01/2009

Interview with Scott Partridge

Westonï¿½s newest signing Scott Partridge took time out to speak to the Club website following the Blue Square Conference South fixture at home to Hampton & Richmond , to explain how his move to Weston came about and to share his thoughts on that afternoonï¿½s game.

34 year old, Leicester born Scott scored 124 goals and made 448 appearances in a league career that spanned Bradford City, Bristol City, Torquay United, Plymouth Argyle, Scarborough, Cardiff City, Brentford, Rushden & Diamonds, Exeter City and Shrewsbury Town.

If I could start by asking how your move to Weston came about?

S. P.: ï¿½I got a phone call from Andy Gurney who I have been a player with at Torquay and still come in to contact with on various occasionï¿½s and he said would I like to come down and play for him because my children are down here and I am looking to spend a bit more time in the area because I have just been temporarily staying up in Chesterfield and it sort of coincides with me coming down playing for Weston and then I will see my children and then I will go back so in a lot of ways we are helping each other out.ï¿½

Is there a time frame on your stay here?

S. P.: ï¿½Well no.

Not really.

I am just literally coming here and playing my games and well I have thoroughly enjoyed where I was, playing for Sheffield F. C., scored a lot of goals and that was just keeping me busy whilst I was up there but I am looking to get back to the area anyway eventually so, well itï¿½s convenient if you know what I mean but I didnï¿½t have any hesitation cause I know Gurns, I know Alan Pridham, I know Chris.

I know them all, a few of the lads.

I am fine with it.

I am happy with it.ï¿½

Where there any other clubï¿½s in the equation?

S. P.: ï¿½No.

Not really.

Having spoke to Pridï¿½s and Gurnï¿½s, they have done a lot to help me and that is why I am here.ï¿½

And your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game?

S. P.: ï¿½Disappointing.

Disappointing really.

First half we played quite well and where unfortunate not to be at least level I would say.

A bit unfortunate.

In the second half the pitch deteriorated quite badly.

I think the first half it was playable but the second half it was, well, solid throughout.ï¿½

It sounded like you where running on concrete for the final 20 minutes?

S. P.: ï¿½Yes, Yes it did.

We where in that far corner.

It was so slippy but the Ref played it and that is it.

They played the conditions a lot better than we did sadly. ï¿½

We where not three goals worse than them on the balance of play and chances created?

S. P.:ï¿½I donï¿½t think so.

No.

If we had of had a bit more luck in the first half with a couple of those chances I think we would have been a little better off but at the end of the day 3-0 sort of flatters them a little bit as I donï¿½t think we deserved to be on the end of a 3-0.ï¿½

If I could finish by asking you:-With Thurrock and Fisher to come in our next two fixtureï¿½s, both sides around the lower reaches of the table, games that perhaps we should realistically be looking to take six points from?

S. P.: ï¿½Well.

You have got to try and take three points from every game especially sort of down in the lower half so every game is sort of a Cup Final at the minute.ï¿½

558 - 06/01/2009

After match interview with First Team Manager Andrew Gurney

Westonï¿½s First Team Manager Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the Club website following the Blue Square Conference South fixture at home to Hampton & Richmond and to share his thoughtï¿½s on the afternoonï¿½s game, the recruitment of Scott Partridge, the move for Lewis Hogg, James Palmerï¿½s loan move to Gloucester City, the clubï¿½s interest in Aaron Blakemore, the recent absence of Darren Mullings from the starting 11 and potential transfer targets.:-

If I could start with your thoughtï¿½s on this afternoonï¿½s game please?

Firstly perhaps to ask if you where happy with the game going ahead in light of the conditions?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

It is the same for both teams really.

It wasnï¿½t ideal for either team but you get on with it and there is no excuses there, none at all.

Again the first half we played well and could have had two or three goals at least.

It isnï¿½t bouncing for us and we are not getting our bit of luck in the box.

That is for all to see really but then we go and shoot ourselves in the foot and give away three sloppy goals and you canï¿½t make sloppy errors like we are and expect to get anything out of games.ï¿½

A couple of top draw saves from Hampton keeper Matthew Lovett denying us going in at least on level terms at the break?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

Again it is the same as the Team Bath game to a certain degree where we are creating stuff and their keeper is pulling off great saves and we are missing one or two and that wonï¿½t keep happening.

We are bound to get a turn of luck in front of goal at some point and as well as saying that, second half we where very poor and gave away very poor goals so it is something that has to stop now.ï¿½

We are not playing badly now though are we?

A. G.: ï¿½No.

We are not playing badly and that is the frustrating thing.

We are not getting a bit of luck.

I think everyone who has been to any of the games can see that.

We are playing some decent stuff at times, everyone is having a good old go and we are working hard but ultimately if you make mistakes you get punished for them and that is what has happened today.ï¿½

Where you happy with the performance of new signing Scott Partridge?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

He looked very sharp.

Very lively today.

He should of scored really just before their second goal which that changes the game but I think anybody watching could see what a good asset he will be to us and he made a difference today in the first half with his link-up play and he looked sharp and lively.

The more games he plays the better he will beï¿½

Potentially a big player for us?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

Definitely and we are still on the look out for a couple more and hopefully in the next two weeks, It is frustrating that we havenï¿½t got a game in the next two weeks to put thingï¿½s right but by the same token it giveï¿½s us a bit more time to maybe get a couple more in,ï¿½

Is the move for Lewis Hogg now finished?

A. G.:ï¿½Well it is out of our court a little bit really.

We have put our offer in and they are saying at the moment that he wonï¿½t be going anywhere so we will have to just wait and see what happens with that.

We have done what we can do from our end at the minute and if they are saying that he is staying put then that is the way it is at the moment.ï¿½

Could you share your thoughtï¿½s on the decision to allow James Palmer to join Gloucester City for a monthï¿½s loan please?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

Obviously he has not been playing and at the moment he is behind people in the pecking order maybe and it was a chance for him to get some games for a month so everyone wants to be playing and it gives him that opportunity for a month.ï¿½

I understand we expressed an interest in Aaron Blakemore?

Could you tell me anymore on that please?

A. G.: ï¿½I made a Phone Call about him and had a little chat with their (Yate) Manager but again there is nothing doing on that one at the moment.

I think they are after some money for him so we wonï¿½t be paying any money for him.ï¿½

Aaron is a local boy who has come through the ranks at Weston.

A popular face with the supporters and somebody they would be delighted to see back in Weston colours?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

I think he has been a good player at the level below and scored lots of goals and he was someone that we would have a good look at but we wonï¿½t be paying money for him.

If he becomeï¿½s available on a free then something might change.ï¿½

A word on Darren Mullings?

Someone who has been in excellent form this season and perhaps can be considered to be unfortunate to of been on the bench for the past three gameï¿½s

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

He has been.

Like you say we have not played badly in the previous three games and the two boys in the middle have done reasonably well and one thing I said when I took the job was that if people play well then they will keep the shirt and Daz was unlucky that he got suspended and once he is back in he will stay in there because he is a good player and he is a big part of our planï¿½s here so he has just got to stick with us and obviously after today it might be different in two weeks time.ï¿½

If I could finish by asking if there is anymore that you can share with us regarding transfer targets and New Faceï¿½s.

A. G.: ï¿½No.

Not really.

No names.

Obviously there is a few that we have got in mind but I donï¿½t really want to name any names at the moment.ï¿½

557 - 03/01/2009

Game ON.

After an early morning pitch inspection conducted by Football League Referee Ronald Ganfield, the playing surface at the Woodspring Stadium was passed fit to host this afternoon's Blue Square Conference South fixture with Hampton & Richmond.

Kick-Off is at 3PM.

555 - 02/01/2009

Palmer joins Tigers.

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have allowed central midfielder James Palmer to join BGB Southern League Premier division side Gloucester City on a months loan.

Bristol born Palmer has seen opportunities with the Seagulls this season limited and it is hoped that the move to the Corrinium Stadium will afford the former Bristol Rovers youngster some much needed game time.

556 - 02/01/2009

Pitch Inspection at 9am.

There will be a pitch inspection at 9am tomorrow at the Woodspring Stadium prior to the Blue Square Conference South fixture between Weston-super-Mare and Hampton and Richmond.

It is understood that the pitch is perfectly flat and playable at the moment and that the inspection is just a precautionary measure.

554 - 01/01/2009

TODAYS GAME IS OFF

Today's game with Team Bath has been called off after a pitch inspection.

553 - 31/12/2008

Weston hope to Hogg Lewis.

Andrew Gurney Manager of Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare has today confirmed that the Seagulls have tabled a ï¿½2,000 bid for Bath City's former Bristol Rovers and Weston-super-Mare midfielder Lewis Hogg.

26 year old Bristol born Hogg is still held in great affection on the terraces at the Woodspring Stadium and Seagulls supporters will no doubt be hoping to see the diminutive play breaker in Weston colours once again.

Lewis made 103 appearances and scored 12 goals in his last spell with North Somerset's most senior club before dropping down a division to join the then BGB Southern League Premier Division Romans and he has remained at Twerton Park to this day.

552 - 31/12/2008

Partridge lands in Seagulls nest.

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare are delighted to announce the capture of experienced goal getter Scott Partridge.

34 year old Leicester born Partridge has been a prolific scorer of goals wherever he has been and netted 124 times from 448 appearances in a professional career that spanned the likes of Bradford City, Bristol City, Torquay United, Plymouth Argyle, Scarborough, Cardiff City, Brentford, Rushden and Diamonds, Exeter City and Shrewsbury Town.

On leaving the pro game Scott joined Weymouth for a short spell before embarking on a fruitful spell at Somerset's second biggest non-league side Bath City where 138 appearances harvested 68 goals.

After training with the Seagulls in pre-season Scott joined Unibond League Division One South side Sheffield FC where he has netted 4 goals in 6 appearances so far this season.

Although not available for the trip to Team Bath tomorrow, Partridge is expected to go straight in to the Weston 16 for Saturday's visit of Hampton & Richmond.

551 - 30/12/2008

Abraham and Quistin link-up with Fisher Athletic

Following their release from Weston-super-Mare earlier this month centre-back Cedric Abraham and left-sided defender/midfielder Ludovic Quistin have signed for fellow Blue Square Conference South side Fisher Athletic.

Abraham netted on his Weston debut at Paulton Rovers in pre-season before making his competitive debut against Bishops Stortford in Blue Square Conference South and went on to feature in 14 of the Seagulls 19 league games prior to his release.

Quistin played a staring role for his home nation of Guadeloupe in the 2008 Caribbean Cup tournament, helping the Gwada Boys defeat Cuba in the 3rd & 4th placed play-off match and as a result of making the last 4, qualify for the prestigious Concacaf Gold Cup 2009.

The 24 year old cousin of Arsenal and France star William Gallas, Ludovic made his Weston debut at Eastleigh in the First Round of the Setanta Shield and featured in 8 of the Seagulls last 9 Conference South fixtures prior to his departure, only missing the game at York Road, Maidenhead through his International Call-Up.

Weston host Fisher in Blue Square Conference South on Saturday the 24th of January and travel to The Champion Hill Stadium for the return fixture in the same competition on Saturday the 28th of February.

550 - 29/12/2008

Hat-Trick of awards for Green!

Prior to Friday's Blue Square Conference South fixture with Team Bath Michael Green was awarded the Weston-super-Mare F. C. Player of the Month Award for November.

The accolade was kindly sponsored by Neil Underhay and presented on his behalf by the awards founder and administrator Simon Stephens.

Michael made history in September when he became the first Weston player to win two of the Monthly awards and the Boxing Day presentation makes it a hat-trick.

The Poll for December is now open and will close at Mid-Day on Wednesday the 21st of January.

As well as casting a vote through the clubs official website which can be found at www.westonsupermareafc.co.uk Supporters can collect a voting slip from Simon Stephens at any First or Youth Team Match Day.

The December Award has kindly been sponsored by James and John Pendleton.

549 - 28/12/2008

After match interview with First Team Manager Andrew Gurney

Westonï¿½s First Team Manager Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the Club website following the Blue Square Conference South fixture at home to Team Bath.

Here are his thoughts:-

If I could start with your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game please?

A. G.: ï¿½I think we have done everything but score a goal today really.

Again what can you ask from them? But ultimately, you donï¿½t put the ball in the back of the net, you donï¿½t win games and that is what has let us down today really.ï¿½

Would it be fair to say that we had the better of the play and possession?

A. G.: ï¿½Yeah.

We played well.

I think we probably created 4 or 5 good, good chances today and we should of scored at least one goal, maybe 2 or 3.

Nothing to worry about then in that we are creating plenty of chances?

Only time to worry when we are not making opportunities?

A. G.: ï¿½No.

I think that anybody who has been here today and in the two games previously can see that the lads are playing with a lot of commitment a lot of desire and a lot of effort but just not getting the rub of the Green a little bit at the moment.

We keep playing like that, we play like that again at their place on New Yearï¿½s Day, then I am sure that we will get the three points that we are after.

We have just got to keep going the way that we are and if we do that then I am sure that it will turn for us.ï¿½

A bit of a sucker blow with a goal a minute before the interval?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

It was a horrible time for them to score.

Again, A little bit of a sloppy goal which we spoke about and are not really happy with but you know, all that aside again I can only say how pleased I am with them to a certain degree today apart from that final bit of putting the ball in the back of the net.

You know we will work on that again this week and try and put that right and I am sure it will come.

We have just got to keep digging in.ï¿½

Worthy claims for a penalty in the second half?

A. G.: ï¿½Yeah.

I didnï¿½t really see but the way the lads have claimed for it, I would imagine it must have been a hand ball.

It wasnï¿½t given and we canï¿½t do anything about that but we where very hard done by today I think.ï¿½

When you consider the nature of Stortfordï¿½s winner last Saturday and eventï¿½s today, Perhaps luck is due to turn our way soon?

A. G.: ï¿½Yeah.

We are certainly not getting any luck at the moment but we canï¿½t feel sorry for ourselves about that.

We have got to get on with it.

We have got to go again now, we are training on Sunday morning, get back on the training pitch and try and put that right and try and get that end product right because that is the only thing lacking at the moment, putting the ball in the back of the net and that is the most difficult thing to do I suppose but if we get that right we are not going to be far away.ï¿½

Have you had any joy/made any progress with your transfer targets?

A. G.: ï¿½We are trying all the time.

We are on the phone all the time.

You know that is an area that we are looking at to try and boost you know to be honest with you.

We are looking for another centre-forward to put pressure on the lads that are here.

That is where we are lacking, in the goals a little bit at the moment and we are looking to address that and bring somebody in but it is proving difficult to get playerï¿½s that are better than we have got and to improve us.

It is hard to get those playerï¿½s, they are in demand so we will be trying again all over the weekend and trying to get somebody in for New Yearï¿½s day if we possibly can but we can only try.

We have had a few knockbacks in that respect but we will keep trying and hopefully get somebody soon.ï¿½

Have we sustained any injuries?

A. G.: ï¿½No.

I think everybody has come through today.

It was good to see Charlie come back.

I am sure that the more him and Randy play together it will be a great partnership.

You know we have done well today.

I think everybody has pretty much done all that was asked from them apart from putting the ball in the back of the net.

Like I say, we just keep going the way that we are and I am sure it will come right for us.ï¿½

To finish I thought that the crowd of 360 when you consider that there was not a single opposition supporter was in particular very pleasing?

A. G.: ï¿½No.

It was brilliant and hopefully they will come back as I am sure today that they could see a little bit of what we are going to be about and the effort, the commitment, our work rate.

Everything was there and we just couldnï¿½t get that little bit in there box.

Hopefully, Although the result was not good today they have been pleased with what they have seen in terms of the performance and it was great to see them in their numbers and hopefully we will see them back for our next home game and hopefully as many as possibly can will travel up to Team Bath on New Yearï¿½s Day and get behind the lads. ï¿½

548 - 25/12/2008

MERRY CHRISTMAS

We would like to take this opportunity to wish all our supporters a very Merry Christmas.

547 - 23/12/2008

Striker results 17/12/08

ï¿½1000 winner Alan Kelly P2279

ï¿½500 winner P.Ormand J3973

ï¿½250 winner A.Cullum W3864

ï¿½125 winner S. Wyatte L2070

Plus 62 ï¿½10 winning consolations.

Rollover amount ï¿½3,500 was also won by Jan Bancroft!!! Congratulations!!!

Results for draws 24/12/08 and 31/12/08 and 07/01/09 will be on the website 07/01/09.

Many thanks for your support and participation and hope you have a wonderful christmas and new year!!!

546 - 22/12/2008

After match interview with First Team Manager Andrew Gurney

Westonï¿½s First Team Manager Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the Club website following the Blue Square Conference South fixture at Bishopï¿½s Stortford Here are his thoughts:-

If I could start with your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game please?

A. G.: ï¿½Canï¿½t ask any more of them to be perfectly honest.

You know They battled hard and worked their socks off and for me sometimes you just donï¿½t get what you deserve and I think we deserved to come away with a point today.

They have got a little bit of luck with their second goal when it falls straight to the lad on the edge of the box after a couple of little headers which we probably havenï¿½t had at their end today which nothing has really gone our way.

A good performance but not the result.

You come away from home, work hard and dig in and it is always difficult wherever you go.

You know we just havenï¿½t got what we deserved today.ï¿½

A cruel blow for us yet a fortunate one for Stortford in that Ben Willshire was off the pitch receiving treatment when Stortford scored what turned out to be the winning goal and it came from the place where Wills would have been?

A. G.: ï¿½Obviously we had Wills off the pitch.

They get that bit of luck where it falls for them.

I think it took a cruel deflection on its way in.

Sometimes that happens in football and you have got to take it on the chin and go again.

I have just told the boys not to be too down and the way they have performed today if you like, I have been very pleased with and if we carry on like that we will get our rewards in the end.ï¿½

We perhaps deserved more out of the game?

A. G.: ï¿½Yeah.

Did we sustain any injuries?

A. G.: ï¿½I think Ben Willshire got a dead leg. Apart from that nothing major

Any news on when Charlie Comyn-Platt will return?

A. G.: ï¿½Well we are hoping to get him back as quickly as we possibly can really. Hopefully might have a squeeze at next week.ï¿½

Where you happy with Tom Parrinello first competitive action ?

A. G.: ï¿½Yeah.

He did really well today.

Kept his shape well and was always in the right place at the right time defensively and he is good on the ball so I think he will do well for us.ï¿½

A move that has got the potential to be extended?

A. G.: ï¿½Yeah, Hopefully.

Well see.

Obviously he is just here for a month initially. We will see how it goes.

We will see if they are happy with the arrangement. We will see if we are happy with it.

You know if he continues like this hopefully we might be able to keep him for a bit longer.ï¿½

545 - 19/12/2008

Ludo released by Weston

Following on from the departure of Cedric Abraham earlier this week Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have today confirmed that they have released Guadeloupe International Ludovic Quistin.

Left sided defender/midfielder Quistin flew back to the U. K. on Monday after a memorable Caribbean Cup tournament for his home nation saw the Gwada Boys defeat Cuba in the 3rd & 4th placed play-off match and as a result of making the last 4, qualify for the prestigious Concacaf Gold Cup 2009.

24 Year Old Ludovic, the Cousin of Arsenal and France star William Gallas made his Weston debut at Eastleigh in the First Round of the Setanta Shield and featured in 8 of the Seagulls last 9 Conference South fixtures, only missing the Maidenhead United game through his International Duties.

Speaking on his exit Gurney said "As was very similar with Cedric (Abraham) It was a difficult decision but i just felt that location wise it wasn't ideal with him (Ludo, like Cedric lives in London) and obviously we want to bring one or two in and have to shuffle it around a little bit. He has done well and i wish him well for the future.

I just feel, where we are at at the moment it is in our best interests to move it about a little bit.

He has worked hard since he has been here but i think it is also in his best interests if he can try and find somewhere else and we are going to try and help him with that and get him fixed up somewhere."

On loan Bristol Rovers defender Tomaso Parrinello would appear to be the Seagulls first choice left back with Ryan Paddock and Ben Willshire also comfortably able to fill in when needed whilst at left midfield Mark McKeever would appear first choice with the fast blooming talents of 16 year old protï¿½gï¿½ Chris Taylor providing another option.

544 - 18/12/2008

Abraham flies Seagulls nest

Guadeloupe born centre-back Cedric Abraham has become the first player to leave the Woodspring Stadium under new Manager Andrew Gurney.

The French national joined Weston in the Summer following spells with Swindon Town, Swindon Supermarine, Chesham United and a trial spell at Halesowen Town.

Prior to coming to the U. K. Cedric turned out for Bordeaux, Bastia & Toulouse in his home land.

He netted on his Weston debut at Paulton Rovers in pre-season before making his competitive debut against Bishops Stortford in Blue Square Conference South and went on to feature in 14 of the Seagulls 19 league games this season.

Speaking on his exit Gurney said "It was a difficult decision but i just felt that location wise it wasn't ideal with him (Cedric lives in London) and obviously we want to bring one or two in and have to shuffle it around a little bit. He has done well and he is a great lad Cedric.

It is disappointing in one way to see him leave but i just feel that where we are at at the moment it is in our best interests to move it about a little bit.

He has worked hard since he has been here but i think it is also in his best interests if he can try and find somewhere else and we are going to try and help him with that and get him fixed up somewhere."

Charlie Comyn-Platt and the fit again Craig Rand would appear to be the Seagulls first choice pairing at centre-back and they also have Ryan Paddock as cover.

As well as that Michael Green, Darren Mullings and Gurney himself have also proved that they can comfortably adapt to playing in the heart of the defence.

543 - 15/12/2008

Quistin pips Cuba for Cup Bronze Medal!

Westonï¿½s left sided defender/midfielder Ludovic Quistin flew back to the U. K. today after a successful Caribbean Cup campaign with Guadeloupe saw his home nation qualify for the prestigious Concacaf Gold Cup 2009.

Ludovic played 90 minutes last night as Guadeloupe beat Cuba 5-4 on penalties after a 0-0 draw at the end of extra-time to win the 3rd & 4th placed play-off match and gain revenge for a 2-1 Group I defeat at the hands of the same opponents.

All at the club join in offering their congratulations.

542 - 15/12/2008

WESTON V MANGOTSFIELD UNITED (TONIGHT)

1st hosts 3rd in the Premier Division of the Somerset Floodlight Youth League tonight when Weston-super-Mare face Mangotsfield United.

Mangotsfield are 3 points behind Weston with two games in hand so will provide an extremley stiff test.

Kick-Off is at 7:45pm at the Woodspring Stadium.

541 - 13/12/2008

NEW DATE FOR HAMPTON GAME

Weston-super-Mare F. C.'s Blue Square Conference South home fixture with Hampton and Richmond which was postponed earlier today has been re-arranged for Saturday the 3rd of January (3pm).

The tie was originally scheduled for the first weekend in January but was brought forward to today by mutual agreement as both sides had exited the F. A. Trophy at the 3rd Qualifying Round stage and today was the date reserved for the first round of the same competition.

540 - 13/12/2008

Pitch Inspection Failed. Game OFF

The Surface at the Woodspring Stadium has failed an early morning pitch inspection and the Blue Square Conference South fixture with Hampton & Richmond is OFF.

As yet a new date for the fixture has not been confirmed.

538 - 12/12/2008

Weston to host Larkhall or Radstock in Cup Quarter-Final !

Weston-super-Mare's reward for defeating Elmore 2-1 after extra-time in the 2nd Round of the Somerset Floodlight Youth League League Cup is a home draw against Larkhall or Radstock in the Quarter-Final.

Larkhall are currently 6th in the League's North Division whilst Radstock are 7th in the same Division.

The tie is scheduled to be played the week commencing Monday the 12th of January 2008 and subject to confirmation it will be the 12th that it is played on with kick-off at the Woodspring Stadium at 7:45PM.

537 - 12/12/2008

Hammett an unfortunate victim of Ricketts departure!

Powerhouse Welsh striker Andy Hammett has been an unfortunate victim of Tony Ricketts's departure from Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare.

The prolific frontman linked up with Weston last month after leaving Welsh Premier League side Neath.

After only four training sessions Ricketts had seen enough to offer Hammett terms.

It is understood that Ricketts intended to include Hammett in the squad of 16 for the game against Basingstoke but a breakdown in communication ment that although International Clearance came through in time from the Welsh F. A. Ricketts claimed to not be aware of this.

Ryan Havard had parted company with the Seagulls on the Thursday night prior to the Basingstoke game and Ricketts informed Hammett "It has freed up an opportunity and budget for you, I'm arranging a friendly match on Tuesday, so i can give you a chance to get match sharpness and fitness, ready for next weekend." (Maidenhead United, Away).

Ricketts then departed the Woodspring Stadium on the Monday evening following the Basingstoke game and Hammett was informed by new Manager Andrew Gurney that due to the change of circumstances, the original offer no longer stood.

Hammett commented "I was honestly looking forward to sinking my teeth in to playing for Weston-super-Mare F. C.. It is a shame but there is no hard feelings and i honestly wish Weston AFC all the very best in the future."

Welsh Premier League side Welshpool are understood to already be hot on the heels of Hammett but the striker may face another frustrating delay as if he moves back to a club in Wales the new side would have to get a return in International Clearance.

539 - 12/12/2008

Precautionary pitch inspection (Weston-super-Mare V Hampton & Richmond) !

Due to the inclement weather conditions, a precautionary pitch inspection will take place between 9:00 & 9:30 tomorrow at the Woodspring Stadium prior to the Blue Square Conference South fixture between Weston-super-Mare & Hampton & Richmond.

Premier League linesman and Football league Referee Ronald Ganfield will make the inspection and the outcome will be published on the Official Club Website as soon as the information is received.

536 - 12/12/2008

Quistin edged out by Jamaica!

Ludo's International Adventure-Update! Part Four

Westonï¿½s left sided defender/midfielder Ludovic Quistin played 90 minutes for Guadeloupe last night as they where narrowly defeated by tournament favourites Jamaica in the semi-final of the Caribbean Cup.

The Reggae Boys who could of counted on a number of players with Premier League game time scored through Oneil Thompson and former Sheffield United striker Luton Shelton.

Guadeloupe who have already qualified for the Concacaf Gold Cup 2009 courtesy of making the last 4 now face Cuba in the 3rd & 4th placed Play-Off on Sunday.

The Gwada Boys will be out for revenge having narrowly lost out 2-1 to the the Cuban's in Group I of the Tournament.

All at the club wish Ludo well.

535 - 11/12/2008

Rovers defender poised to sign for Seagulls

Following on from registering the youth team duo of Chris Taylor and Dayle Grubb on first team forms new Weston Manager Andrew Gurney looks set to make his first signing from outside of the club with the capture of Bristol Rovers defender Tomaso Parrinello.

19 year old left-sided defender Parrinello is expected to train with the Seagulls for the first time tonight (Thursday) and it is hoped that he will put pen to paper on an initial one month loan deal following the session.

Speaking about the potential newcomer Gurney said "We've been looking for a left-footed full-back all season and he will bring a bit of balance in to the side."

534 - 11/12/2008

Striker results 10/12/08

ï¿½1000 winner Mrs Hayes C1450

ï¿½500 winner Mr R Churchill WA4614

ï¿½250 winner Ms S Luxton WF4434

ï¿½125 winner Sara Bradbury X0570

plus 67pating memners with the same number but a different prefix win ï¿½10.

No rollover winner this week therefore rolling over to next week.

Thanks and good luck

Michelle Somers

Gold Striker

533 - 09/12/2008

After match interview with First Team Manager Andrew Gurney

Westonï¿½s new First Team Manager Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the Club website following his first competitive fixture in charge of the Seagulls.

Here are his thoughts:-

If I could start with your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game please?

A. G.: ï¿½It was a fantastic team performance really.

We rode our luck at timeï¿½s a little bit, they had a few chances but we had one or two ourselves and Wellsyï¿½s hit the bar with a great strike and we have dug in and everything you ask for them really, theyï¿½ve worked their socks off.

We got in peopleï¿½s faces, got around the pitch and you canï¿½t really ask for a lot more than that sometimes and it is a clean sheet for us which we have not had many of and a great result I think.ï¿½

Your hands were severely tied regarding who was available?

A bit of a nightmare for your first team selection?

(6 first team players were unavailable: Gurney himself, Ryan Havard, Cedric Abraham and Darren Mullings all through suspension, Ludovic Quistin on International Duty and Captain Charlie Comyn-Platt through injury)

A. G.: ï¿½Yeah we had a few out today obviously.

I said to the lads before the game that absenteesï¿½ donï¿½t matter as we still expect to come here, work hard and get something out of the game.

Fairplay to them they have done that and have done fantastic and they have given me a few headaches for next week now.ï¿½

Did we sustain any injuries?

A. G.: ï¿½I think Randy coming off was just with cramp hopefully.

Obviously first competitive game today and he was brilliant.

First game back and it just took a toll on his legs a little bit there I think really.

Just a bit of cramp I hope and nothing else.ï¿½

The effort levels, application and work ethic was magnificent today?

The players ran themselves in to the ground?

A. G.: ï¿½Thatï¿½s one of the things that I said to them.

As long as they do that every week I wonï¿½t ask for anymore.

There is little things that we can work on where we can get our football a little better but today again we showed signs that we can play and we have got ability in the team and hopefully week by week we can get them to believe in that a little bit more and show signs of playing some better football when we have got the ball and working hard and working our socks off like I say with and without the ball and they have done that today and it is a great result.ï¿½

Nice to see that Samuel Clark made a late cameo and that you had David Thorne, Mark Armstrong and Dayle Grubb on the bench?

Is that something that you intend on doing, developing Youth and giving them a chance?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

I think so.

We will try and get them involved as much as we can.

Even if they are not playing or are on the bench.

We will try and get them in and around the First Team and try and get them in the atmosphere of it.

That will give them a little bit of experience, just being around the place a little bit.ï¿½

Can I ask you about Chris Smith and how his appointment as Assistant Manager came about?

A. G.: ï¿½I have been looking and needed somebody to come in.

I spoke to Smudge and asked him if he would be willing to come back.

He will be good to have around the place.

He knows the club and the players and we can bounce off each other and work well together I think so yeah he will be here from now on.ï¿½

Any potential signings or player movement on the horizon?

A. G.: ï¿½Obviously we are going to get together next week and have a look at a couple of things and try and improve it if we can to see if we can try and help us move on a little bit.

We will see what we can do in the next couple of weeks.ï¿½

Finishing by looking ahead to next Saturday:-Now is the time for the supporters to return in their droves and get behind the team?

The players are giving their all and it would be nice to see the supporters doing the same?

A few more numbers through the gate could make a big difference?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes it would do.

People need something to cheer about and come and watch.

There was a few here today and hopefully they can pass it on to a few people that we are a good, honest, hardworking team and we can play a bit as well when we get the chance so hopefully people will come and get behind us next Saturday and that can only help and will help the lads as well.ï¿½

532 - 09/12/2008

Room to recruit Bliss tells Gurney

Following discussions at the weekend Paul Bliss Chairman of Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare has confirmed that new Manager Andrew Gurney will have the scope to bring in two players to bolster his squad.

Gurney and Bliss discussed the key area's that they are targeting on Saturday but they will not be making the positions public. Gurney then went on to meet with newly appointed Assistant Chris Smith and Alan Pridham last night to identify potential targets.

Bliss commented "We agreed on a couple of key positions where we would like to recruit and strengthen what we already have and i have told Andy that he has the scope to do that."

When pressed on what sort of player Bliss commented "I would prefer to go for somebody with experience. Somebody that has proved it at this level and above and has a proven pedigree.".

531 - 09/12/2008

Weston Youth go top

Weston-super-Mare 3 Bitton 2.

Somerset Floodlight Youth League Premier Division

Defending Champions Weston Youth stormed to the top of the Somerset Floodlight Youth League Premier Division table courtesy of last night's 3-2 victory over Bitton.

A James Parker goal on 13 minutes and a double from Dayle Grubb in the 18th and 24th minutes were enough to seal victory.

Next up are Mangotsfield United at the Woodspring Stadium in another Premier Division fixture on Monday (15th) with a 7:45pm kick-off.

Mangotsfield are currently in 3rd position, 3 points behind Weston with two games in hand.

530 - 09/12/2008

Quistin Qualifies for Concacaf Gold Cup!

Ludo's International Adventure-Update! Part Three

Westonï¿½s left sided defender/midfielder Ludovic Quistin has helped his home nation of Guadeloupe qualify for the Semi-Finals of the 2008 Caribbean Championships and with it automatic entry in to the prestigious Concacaf Gold Cup 2009.

Guadeloupe drew 2-2 with Antigua and Barbuda last night in the final round of group matches with Ludovic replacing Cedric Vanoukia for the final 27 minutes.

With Haiti recording a surprise 1-0 victory over table toppers Cuba in the other group I game the Gwada boys shared an identical record with the 2007 Caribbean Cup winners and made the final four courtesy of their superior goals scored record.

Ludovic and Guadeloupe will now face hosts Jamaica in Kingston on Thursday in the 2nd of the two final four games.

Should they defeat the Reggae Boys they would face either Cuba or Grenada in Sundays final or either of the same opponents in a 3rd & 4th placed play-off which would also take place in Kingston on Sunday.

As a result Ludovic will miss this Saturdayï¿½s visit of Hampton & Richmond in Blue Square Conference South.

All at the club congratulate Ludo and wish him well.

529 - 09/12/2008

Phil Moore will Sadly be missed by all at Weston-super-Mare AFC

It is with deep regret that the Club has to announce the death of Philip Moore.

Phil was Head Groundsman in the latter years of the Clubï¿½s location at Woodspring Park. He took over what was frequently described as ï¿½a nightmare pitchï¿½ and largely succeeded in conquering itï¿½s worst faults, notching up a record of fewer matches postponed in his last seasons there than during the preceding years.

Philip died of cancer in the early hours of Monday morning.

We all regret his passing and we extend our sympathies to his family at this sad time. Details of Philipï¿½s funeral will be conveyed as soon as they are known.

527 - 08/12/2008

Player of the Month Award.

The poll for the Weston-super-Mare F. C. Player of the Month award for November closes at mid-day on Wednesday. Voters can cast their votes through the usual channels which will include obtaining a slip from Simon Stephens at tonight's Youth Team home fixture with Bitton.

The Award will be presented prior to kick-off at Saturday's game with Hampton and Richmond.

Pictured Darren Mullings won Weston-super-Mare F. C. Player of the Month Award for October 2008.

526 - 08/12/2008

Weston-super-Mare V Bitton

3rd hosts 4th in the Premier Division of the Somerset Floodlight Youth League on Monday night when Weston-super-Mare face Bitton.

Kick-Off is at 7:45pm at the Woodspring Stadium.

528 - 08/12/2008

Gurney names Smith as Assistant manager

New Weston Manager Andrew Gurney has wasted no time in appointing Chris Smith as his Assistant Manager.

Smith or ï¿½Smudgeï¿½ as he is affectionately known would appear an ideal fit for the role having extensive knowledge of the club after previously serving the Seagulls as Manager himself as well as working under Frank Gregan and Tony Ricketts as Assistant manager.

The former Cinderford Town Manager and Newport County midfielder has been Managing Forest Green Rovers Ladies since leaving the Woodspring Stadium at the end of last season.

It is understood that as with Gurney the position will be subject to review on January 31st.

Commenting on his return to the Woodspring Stadium Smith commented ï¿½Iï¿½m just glad to be back and if it is just to the end of January then fine but if it is for longer then brilliant. Iï¿½ve no mis-conceptions about how hard it is going to be. There would not of been anybody else that I would of come back for but Gurns (Andrew Gurney) is a mate, he is a friend and somebody I trust 100%. I am desperate for him to do well and I am desperate for the club to do well and whatever little part I can play in that I will be happy to be part of it. I know most of the lads and the ones that I do not know have been as good as gold. He has got a good bunch of lads here and we just need a bit of belief. You have got to respect Gurns for what he has done in football and I think that respect is evident here.ï¿½

525 - 07/12/2008

Ludo's International Adventure-Update! Part Two

Weston's Ludovic Quistin played 90 minutes for his home nation of Guadeloupe last night as a injury time goal from Jean-Luc Lambourde sealed a stunning 3-2 win over Haiti at the Greenfield Stadium in Trelawny, Jamaica in Group I of the 2008 Caribbean Cup Finals.

Guadeloupe were 2-0 down after just 17 minutes but a goal from Boucicaut just before half-time. Gave the Gwada Boys, a chance and when Endersen level the score on 68 mins. The Away team had a fighting chance of moving up the table.

The win leaves the Gwada boys within touching distance of a place in the competitions semi-finals and automatic qualification for the 2009 Concacf Gold Cup.

Guadeloupe face Antigua and Barbuda at Montego Bay in the final group game tommorow night.

With Cuba facing Haiti in the other final round game a draw for Ludovic and Guadeloupe against the groups bottom side could well be enough for them to progress.

524 - 06/12/2008

Ludo's International Adventure-Update

Weston's Ludovic Quistin played 90 minutes for his home nation of Guadeloupe against Cuba in Group J of the Caribean Cup Finals on Thursday night .

Unfortunateley the talented left back couldn't prevent his side from going down to a narrow 2-1 defeat at Jarrett Park, Montego Bay.

Ludovic will be in action again late on Saturday night when Guadeloupe face Haiti in Trelawyn in what is now a crucial game for the Gwada Boys.

523 - 06/12/2008

Gurney makes first signings as Weston Gaffer

Former Swindon Town and Bristol Rovers midfielder Andrew Gurney has made his first signings as Manager of Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare on the eve of his teamï¿½s trip to York Road, Maidenhead.

Creative central midfielder Dayle Grubb and flying left winger Chris Taylor are the players to put pen to paper and both are expected to be in the Seagulls squad of 16 tomorrow.

17 year old Grubb, brother of Westonï¿½s former Bristol City right winger Dean Grubb currently captainï¿½s Westonï¿½s Youth side and has been an ever present for Somerset at Under 18ï¿½s level this season.

Last season he gained his initial experience with the first team squad when he was an unused sub at Lewes in the final game of last season and was voted the youth teams ï¿½Players Playerï¿½ of the season.

16 year old Taylor is currently the youth sides leading goalscorer and got his first taste of the first team environment when he replaced Mark McKeever after 70 minutes in Tuesday nightï¿½s ï¿½behind closed doorsï¿½ friendly against Clevedon Town.

The signings of a further two Weston bred youngsters will certainly serve to invigorate the Seagulls supporters who are constantly clambering to see local youngsters in the side and tomorrow could well see as many as 8 of the Weston squad consisting of former or current youth team players with Taylor and Grubb likely to be joined by Mark Armstrong, Samuel Johnson, Samuel Clark, Luke Purnell and David Thorne in the travelling party.

The flow of talented youngsters coming through to contest first team births is greater than any time in the history of the club and while credit must go to Gurney for blooding the youngsterï¿½s ultimate praise must go to first team goalkeeper Ryan Northmore who also doubles as the clubs Youth Team Manager.

28 year old Plymouth born Northmore who gained valuable experience as understudy and eventual successor to Neville Southall at then league 2 side Torquay United has been instrumental in the development of Taylor and Grubb but has also guided a number of other players through to first team contention including Michael Hudson and Aaron Honeywell as well as Armstrong, Johnson, Clark, Purnell and Thorne.

522 - 05/12/2008

Player shortage crisis hits Weston

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare look set to be missing up to 7 of their first choice first team players when they travel to Maidenhead United on Saturday.

Facing a high flying Magpies side who currently occupy 5th position in the league table would of been a tricky enough test with a full side but new manager Andy Gurney, appointed on Monday has seen his options severely limited with a previously small squad reduced dramatically further.

Gurney himself is suspended following an accumulation of bookings and also banned are the trio of striker Ryan Havard, midfielder Darren Mullings and defender Cedric Abraham.

On top of that, first choice left-back Ludivic Quistin is away on International Duty with his home nation of Guadeloupe whilst James Palmer sat out Tuesday night's behind closed doors friendly with Clevedon Town suffering an extreme bout of flu and Charlie Comyn-Platt is rated as an injury doubt although the Seagulls Captain is expected to face a late fitness test.

The absentees look likely to hand opportunities to some of the club's promising youngsters who lifted the Somerset Floodlight Youth League Premier Division crown last season with Mark Armstrong in line for a starting berth and Samuel Johnson, Samuel Clark, David Thorne and Luke Purnell all likely to make the journey to York Road.

521 - 03/12/2008

Striker Results 03/12/2008

ï¿½1000 winner L. Jackson SB3973

ï¿½500 winner B. Woods W1624

ï¿½250 winner Dave Smart WE1532

ï¿½125 winner Mr Sherratt L5531

Total consolations: 65

No rollover winner therefore rolling over until next week.

Michelle Somers

Gold Striker.

520 - 03/12/2008

Gurney the new Weston Manager-Andy told the job is yours!

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have today announced that they will not be advertising for a new Manager in the immediate future.

Caretaker and former Assistant Andrew Gurney has been told that he will be given till January 31st to impress the Weston hierarchy and should he meet their requirements the job will be his.

The decision to give Gurney an extended trial period at the Woodspring Stadium was announced to the players and staff prior to last nightï¿½s ï¿½behind closed doorsï¿½ friendly with Clevedon Town and was met with universal approval.

The former Reading and Swansea City midfielder commented ï¿½Iï¿½m in the seat at the moment and it is my job to try and keep. Hopefully if we can string a few results together between now and the end of January it will be my jobï¿½.

Gurney who can also list Swindon Town and Bristol Rovers amongst his former clubs went on to comment ï¿½I am really excited about it and grateful for the opportunity and hopefully I can re pay the faith that people have shown in me.

I can promise the fans that we will be very committed and very hardworking and strive to give them something to cheer about. If they can come down in their numbers and get behind us it would be brilliantï¿½.

Weston Chairman Paul Bliss commented ï¿½Andy will be in the post at least until January 31st and as such we will not be advertising the position.

We have some fundraising initiatives in place that if successful will give us the key to Blue Square Premier football.

Andy and all the players know that we must maintain our current status at all costs for this season and next and all being well, we will have our passport to push for promotion for the 2010/2011 seasonï¿½.

519 - 02/12/2008

Striker Results 12/11/08-26/11/08

ï¿½1000 winner Carl Dawson K6289

ï¿½500 winner Andrea Dawson K0427

ï¿½250 winner P.Cooke SD4236

ï¿½125 winner D.Watkins WJ2048

Total Consolations: 22

No rollover winner therefore rolling over to next week.

19/11/08

ï¿½1000 winner A.Adams V4319

ï¿½500 winner G.Mearns U5224

ï¿½250 winner Mr Cooke SA5344

ï¿½125 winner Dale Roberts

Total Consolations: 71

No rollover therefore rolling over to next week.

26/11/08

ï¿½1000 winner Mrs Owens H1556

ï¿½500 winner John Higginbotham W3623

ï¿½250 winner Mark Crielly SA5451

ï¿½125 winner Mr Smith SC3257

Total Consolations: 72

No rollover therefore rolling over to next week.

Many apoligies on the delay of results for the next set of results see 03/12/08 which will be put on by 5pm.

Michelle Somers

Gold Striker

518 - 02/12/2008

Supporters delirious as Havard comes home

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare are today delighted to announce that terrace favourite Ryan Havard has returned to the Woodspring Stadium.

Weston bred Havard left Weston last Thursday following a meeting with former Manager Tony Ricketts but it is understood that he will be seen at the club this evening and will also train with the Seagulls on Thursday evening.

26 year old striker Ryan, an immensely popular figure at both the club and in the town is renowned for his passion and commitment and never giving less than 100%.

The imminent return of Havard will no doubt lift and invigorate the home supporters and it is hoped that a sizeable crowd will welcome him home when Weston entertain Hampton & Richmond in a re-arranged Blue Square Conference South fixture on Saturday 13th of December.

Unfortunately due to an accumulation of bookings Ryan will be forced to sit out this Saturdayï¿½s trip to high flying Maidenhead United.

517 - 01/12/2008

Ricketts relieved of duties-Gurney placed in charge

As at 8pm on Monday the 1st of December Weston-super-Mare F.C. announce that they have relieved First Team Manager Tony Ricketts of his duties. Former Assistant Manager Andrew Gurney will take up the managerial reigns whilst the position is advertised but Gurney will be welcome to apply for the position.

516 - 01/12/2008

Ricketts relieved of duties-Gurney placed in charge

As at 8pm on Monday the 1st of December Weston-super-Mare F.C. announce that they have relieved First Team Manager Tony Ricketts of his duties.

Former Assistant Manager Andrew Gurney will take up the managerial reigns whilst the position is advertised but Gurney will be welcome to apply for the position.

515 - 01/12/2008

SOUND BITES

Ryan Northmore on Weston V Basingstoke

"Today was extremley low.Very disappointing. Attitude was poor but at the end of the day attitude is a reflection of leadership."

Paul Bliss on the departure of Ryan Havard from the Woodspring Stadium

"I am very sad to see Ryan go. You know what you get from him. I would like to thank him for the passion and commitment he showed in a Weston shirt. He never gave less than 100% and i wish him well."

514 - 28/11/2008

F. A. turn down Abraham ban appeal

The Football Association have turned down Cedric Abraham's appeal against the red card shown to him in the recent Blue Square South fixture at Basingstoke Town.

Stand-in club Secretary Keith Refault commented "the only way we would of been able to succeed with the appeal would of been on the grounds of mistaken identity".

The imposing Guadeloupe born centre-back will now miss this Saturday's home fixture with Basingstoke, the trip to Maidenhead United next Saturday and the visit of Hampton & Richmond on the 13th December.

513 - 28/11/2008

Havard heartbreak for Seagulls supporters

In a move that will no doubt be met with sadness from the Weston supporters it was confirmed last night that popular Weston bred striker Ryan Havard has left the Woodspring Stadium.

As yet there is no official word on the reason for the departure although it is hoped that words from Ryan and Manager Tony Ricketts will be avaliable on the Website either over the weekend or early next week.

Weston-super-Mare F. C. extend their thanks to Ryan for his passion and commitment whilst in the colours of the Seagulls Youth, Reserve and First Team sides and are united in wishing him well for the future. It is hoped that one day in the future Ryan will be seen again in a Weston shirt.

512 - 26/11/2008

Keith Coombes 1955-2008

Weston-super-Mare F. C. offers their condolences to the Family and Friends of former Weston player Keith Coombes who sadly passed away on Monday evening.

53 year old Keith who was head of P. E. at Gordano School played for the Seagulls under Harry ï¿½Tickerï¿½ Thomas at both Langford Road and Woodspring Park .

A minutes silence will be held on Saturday at 10:29 prior to Westonï¿½s supporters taking on their Basingstoke counterparts and will be followed by a further minutes silence at 2:59 prior to the Blue Square Conference South Fixture between Weston-super-Mare and Basingstoke Town .

A club spokesman commented ï¿½Our sympathy goes out to his family and we are thinking of them at this sad time.ï¿½

511 - 26/11/2008

After match interview with First Team Manager Tony Ricketts (Part Two)

PART TWO

Basingstoke is obviously a massive game this Saturday but I think there is no doubt that we have seen this season that we have more than enough quality amongst the playerï¿½s?

T. R.: ï¿½Yeah.

We say that.

I think if everybody is fit there is more than enough quality in the squad to finish mid-table.

I have said that all along but we have had too many set-backs and too many false dawns.

I have had a guts full of being a loser.

It is as simple as that.ï¿½

What is it about then? Motivation? Attitude? Application? Desire?

T. R.: ï¿½Well we all think we are better than we actually are.

Myself included.

I am not pulling any punches.

We all think we are better than we are.ï¿½

Yes but surely the message if you keep picking up defeats is that you are not?

T. R.: ï¿½There is two ways of looking at it Si.

Do players care?

Are they really interested in the end result?

Are they really interested in this football club?

I didnï¿½t sleep Tuesday night.

I spent all night awake.

Thatï¿½s how it affects me and why should I put my family through it when I get another defeat today against a very average side and all credit to them they deserved their win today but a very average side and it happens time after time and like I said it is mostly my playerï¿½s so I have got to accept it.

My leading goalscorer is Darren Mullings, a midfield player, McGregor has got three, Marvin Brown has got four.

This is league goals that I am talking about.

Then we are conceding two goals a game at the other end so somewhere along the line I havenï¿½t got it right in 16 months.ï¿½

The start to the league season though has been fantastic and perhaps we shouldnï¿½t be too hard on ourselves but I suppose it is following the pattern of last season?

T. R.: ï¿½Si.

I appreciate what you are saying and I think most people would of settled for 22 points from 17 league games.

We get 22 points from our next 17 league games and we are 44 points, where safe with 8 games to go and I think everybody is happy at the football club.

Well I wonï¿½t be.

I wonï¿½t be.

I want more than that.

I want more success than that.

Iï¿½m still ambitious.

I want better.

When I came here it was to turn the club in to a conference club, that is what me and the Chairman spoke about at our interview and we are a million miles away from that, absolutely a million miles away from that on and off the field.

On the field is my responsibility and I have got a say.ï¿½

There are other supporting factors though arenï¿½t there?

T. R.: ï¿½There is.

There is but on the field is what concerns me and we continue to let people down.

Myself and the players included and it hurts me but I am not quite as sure that it hurts all our playerï¿½s.ï¿½

What do you expect from the next games against Basingstoke and Maidenhead? Can you give the supporters some hope for optimism and convince them that this season is not going to follow the pattern of last season?

T. R.: ï¿½That is probably why it needs a change Si.

That is probably why it needs a change because I am not going to sit here and let happen what happened last year.

I was too loyal last year.

I kept too many players for too long that were not good enough and we proved Tuesday and today that we are not good enough.

I will re-iterate, I take the ultimate responsibility for it because most of the playerï¿½s are mine.ï¿½

Surely the players have to take some responsibility when they cross the white line?

T. R.: ï¿½That is exactly what I said about to the players after in the dressing room.

In my programme notes that werenï¿½t printed today but I actually said that when players cross the white line there is not much that you can do but the way that the game was set-up today, Ludovic Quistin and Ben Wells should have had an absolute field day.

There was no width to our play and when we did get the ball wide it was in our own half of the field.

They set-up with a diamond type four midfield to combat our three and it worked for them so it should of given Ludovic and Ben Wells plenty of room to attack but Ludovic was poor today.ï¿½

What do you expect from the next couple of games then?

T. R.: ï¿½If I am honest with you Si, I think you are better off asking the players.

My expectations: We are three games undefeated in the league, three away games.

5 out of 9 but you know if they play like they did today and defended like they did today then who knows.ï¿½

Have you got the scope and support to be able to change things?

T. R.: ï¿½Playerï¿½s will have to go.

We are over budget.

There is another ï¿½4,000 pounds down the pan today and it ainï¿½t no good playerï¿½s coming knocking on my door saying that they want a pay rise and this that and the other.

We sent a circular out to all clubï¿½s saying that we had players available for transfer and loan and the only club to make an enquiry was Clevedon Town and Farnborough Town.ï¿½

Are you able to say which playerï¿½s it was that they were interested in?

T. R.: ï¿½Clevedon Town wanted Dean Grubb and Clevedon Town enquired about James Palmer.ï¿½

Farnborough?

T. R.: ï¿½Farnborough just wanted to know who was available and I said to Farnborough if there is somebody specific then to speak to us but I never heard another thing.

So we need a reality check.ï¿½

Do you believe that playerï¿½s are ultimately answerable to the spectators as it is the supporters that pay the wages?

T. R.: ï¿½I will say this to you.

If it wasnï¿½t for the Chairman Paul Bliss there wouldnï¿½t be a Weston-super-Mare football club at this level.

When the man is taking ï¿½70,000-100,000 out of his own pocket.

Playerï¿½s are answerable to supporters, we have given them absolutely nothing to cheer about.

Just a couple of rounds in the F. A. Trophy, A couple of rounds in the F. A. Cup.

Our crowd if we are not careful will diminish and we have given them nothing to cheer about.ï¿½

A win at pre-season title favourites Havant & Waterlooville, ending A. F. C. Wimbledonï¿½s 100% home record and up until recently being above both Bath City and Newport County in the table, all is certainly not gloomy?

T. R.: ï¿½But five of you have seen that, five of you have seen the draw at A. F. C. Wimbledon and itï¿½s a great result and the win at Havant and Waterlooville was very pleasing but we need to be consistent with it.

We have got a lot of playerï¿½s here but one thing we have not got:-I need to bring in a pacey striker, there is no ifs and butsï¿½ about it.

Their seven caused us problems today and hopefully we will get Randy back and Charlie Comyn-Platt back and hopefully when we get a squad of 17 we will be O. K. but at the present moment in time we need one or two changes.ï¿½

Have you spoken to Dean Grubb since he got back from Spain?

T. R.: ï¿½Well Dean Grubb has come back and spoken to me today, sorry last night.

He was suspended for two weeks by myself and fined two weeks wages over non arrival at Braintree.

He has come back and apologised, says that he just wants to get his head down and play football and I shook hands with him and said fair enough but I donï¿½t think we would be wise to cancel Deanï¿½s contract.

We need Dean Grubb with his head right because he has got the ability just to create something out of nothingï¿½

Your thoughtï¿½s on Ludovicï¿½s latest International call-up? His second since he has been a Weston player and his third in total.

T. R.: ï¿½To play international football, to represent your country is the pinnacle for every single player.

It is something that I would of liked, to of represented my country.

I got selected for the England Non-League side going back a few years then done my cruciate ligaments so didnï¿½t get selected so it is an honour for him and an honour for the club.ï¿½

Strange that Cedric hasnï¿½t been considered though? Perhaps they (Guadeloupe) are not aware of him?

T. R.: ï¿½Playersï¿½ have still got an awful lot to learn and develop in their game and that is what I miss, training two nightï¿½s a week.

We trained on Tuesday night and nobody at the Club informed me that there was a Youth Team game on Thursday night.

My goalkeeper actually runï¿½s the side and he didnï¿½t say anything to me and when we turn up with two trialists, one from Neath and one that has come over from Portugal and they must be thinking what the hell is going on.

I miss that professionalism.

I would like to work with Ludovic and Cedric on a daily basis as they have got good natural attributes.

There quick, they are strong but Cedric has cost us today and Ludovic has had his worst game since he joined us.ï¿½

Finally then. We havenï¿½t seen any of the problems that Hednesford claimed to of had with Ludovic?

T. R.: ï¿½No.

Not at all.

Iï¿½ve got a good relationship with the both of them.

Ludo none whatsoever.

He drives down here all the way from London three times a week, he is dedicated, putï¿½s everything in and I have got no problems.ï¿½

510 - 26/11/2008

After match interview with First Team Manager Tony Ricketts (Part One)

Following Westonï¿½s F. A Trophy 3rd Qualifying Round Tie with A. F. C. Sudbury First Team Manager Tony Ricketts shared his thoughts on the afternoonï¿½s game, the F. A.ï¿½s respect campaign, the imminent return of Craig Rand, Cedric Abrahamï¿½s dismissal at Basingstoke, the transfer listed Dean Grubb and Ludovic Quistinï¿½s latest International call-up amongst a number of other subjectï¿½s .

If I could start with your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game please?

T. R.: ï¿½Didnï¿½t deserve to win.

Didnï¿½t do enough to win a game of football.

Made two shocking errorï¿½s at the back.

They have had three shots in ninety minutes.

We are out of the F. A. Trophy and another ï¿½4,000 pounds down the drain.

We donï¿½t seem to care.

I think we need to look at things from top to bottom.

I am considering my position at the football club.

The Referee today, 11 cautionï¿½s, the physio on the pitch once during the whole game and not one player went off injured.

I find it hard to believe.

I think we where at the wrong end of most of the decisions all afternoon but I must admit that it is not the reason we got beat.

The respect campaign at non-league level is on its kneeï¿½s; there are no ifs and butsï¿½ about itï¿½

But it has got to be a two way thing and respect has to be earned?

T. R.: ï¿½Yeap.

Your dead right.

You canï¿½t have a referee running around telling people to shut up.

That is a lack of respect but that is not the reason we lost today because we did not create enough in their 18 yard box and we didnï¿½t defend our 18 yard box well enough and like I said, three shots in 90 minutes they had.

Well, yeah, three shots on target in 90 minutes.

We only had five or six chances mind but you know a different kettle of fish if McGregor scored with the header first half and itï¿½s just hit the keeper.ï¿½

Where you pleased with the effort levels?

T. R.: ï¿½Was I pleased with the effort levels?

Well it was better than Tuesday! But again we have let the supporters and people behind the scenes at this football club down.

I have been here what sixteen monthï¿½s now? seventeen monthï¿½s? and weï¿½ve not had a cup run, weï¿½ve not done nothing.

Weï¿½ve been beaten by sides two and three leagueï¿½s lower than us and I and we have got to face reality.

I am looking at myself very, very critically at this present moment in time and I think that some of our playerï¿½s should do exactly the same because we all think, myself included, I think that I am a good coach and the playerï¿½s definitely think that they are good playerï¿½s but you know it happens all the time.

It keepï¿½s happening to us.

Yeah we have had a good start in the league considering everything else but we have just gone out of two cup competitions to two sides three and two leagueï¿½s lower than us.

It is not acceptable and when you put that together with the Setanta Shield against Eastleigh when we where 2-0 up with 10 minutes to go and threw that away.

Chesham in the F. A. Cup, Team Bath in the F. A, Cup last year, Bath City in the Setanta Shield last year but we are giving our supporters nothing to cheer.ï¿½

You said after Tuesday that you wanted a big reaction today. Was the reaction you got what you wanted?

T. R.: ï¿½Well no because the result was wrong.

Results can paper over loads of things.

We won at Basingstoke.

The second goal has come from Mark McKeever giving a poor ball to Andy Gurney and them going down the other end and scoring.

You know, we just canï¿½t keep making mistakes.

We have one clean sheet in 22 games now and that says it all.

We are only scoring one a game now.

We started on fire earlier in the season.

It is a simple game and I keep repeating myself but games are won and lost in their 18 yard box and lost in your own and I keep telling the playerï¿½s. and they are mostly my playerï¿½s, mostly my playerï¿½s.

You know the only players I havenï¿½t signed here now are McGregor and Northmore.

Yeah, Mark McKeever has come back to the club.ï¿½

Randy (Craig Rand)?

T. R.: ï¿½Yeah, well Randy hasnï¿½t played since last January has he?ï¿½

Is he close to match fitness?

T. R.: ï¿½I donï¿½t know.

He sayï¿½s he is training and that.

He needs, We need a couple of games.

If he had of been here Tuesday he would have been involved in the Brislington game.

You know I sat him on the bench today because there was a hiccup with Ben Willshire.

Ben Willshire should have been on the bench today.ï¿½

What happened there then?

T. R.: ï¿½I sent a text message to him but sent it to his house number rather than his mobile so he didnï¿½t get the message but then again he should of checked in and said ï¿½Ricko, what is going on on Saturday?ï¿½

So I have got to hold my hands up for that.ï¿½

I understand that we have now appealed against Cedricï¿½s red card at Basingstoke?

T. R.: ï¿½I have asked the question and his ban starts on Tuesday and we have not heard any news so Keith (Keith Refault, stand-in Secretary) was saying today so but then again if Cedric is going to play like he did today, then you know!?.ï¿½

So have we actually appealed then?

T. R.: ï¿½I have asked the club to appeal.

Thatï¿½s all I can say.ï¿½

Keith is telling me today that we have but Keith is telling me that he is waiting for the F. A. to get back to him so I take it whatever but I have asked to appeal.

Am I right in thinking that the ban process is held off until the appeal has been heard?

T. R.: ï¿½Yes., Yes it is.ï¿½

Any other news? Any injuries?

T. R.: ï¿½We missed Comyn-Platt today and to a certain extent Ashan.

The club needs fresh impetus and whether that is replacing me or whether itï¿½s replacing some of the playerï¿½s, time will tell.ï¿½

Part two of this interview will be placed on the website later today (Wednesday)

509 - 25/11/2008

Further County honours for Seagulls starlets

Weston-super-Mare F. C. Youth Team duo, Ben Dancey and Dayle Grubb have brought further prestige to the Woodspring Stadium based club with their sixth and fourth call-upï¿½s respectively to the Somerset County Under 18ï¿½s squad this season.

Youth team Captain Grubb who plays in the centre of midfield and highly rated goalkeeper Dancey will represent their County in the South & West Counties Youth Championship game against Dorset on Tuesday December 9th.

The game will take place at Taunton Town F. C. and kick-off at 7:30pm.

Both Weston sides are without a fixture on that date and it is hoped that a large number of Seagulls supporters will make the short trip to support Ben and Dayle.

All at the club congratulate both players and wish them good luck.

508 - 23/11/2008

Further International honours for Seagulls star

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare are delighted to announce that left-back Ludovic Quistin has brought further prestige to the Woodspring Stadium based club with his second international call-up since signing for the Seagulls and his third in total for his home nation of Guadeloupe .

24 year old Ludovic played a starring role for Guadeloupe in Stage 2 of the Caribbean Cup in October, featuring in wins over the Cayman Islands, Grenada and Martinique and has been rewarded for his performances with a place in the squad for Decemberï¿½s finals in Jamaica .

Guadeloupe face group games against Cuba (4th December), Haiti (6th December) & Antigua and Barbuda on 8th December.

Should Guadeloupe finish in the top two of the group they will face either Jamaica , Trinidad & Tobago , Grenada or Barbados in the semi-finals and making the last 4 would also be enough for them to qualify for the prestigious Concacaf Gold Cup 2009.

Quistin is due to fly out to Jamaica on December 1st and would return on either December 9th or December 15th depending on Guadeloupe ï¿½s success in the competition.

Ludovic would miss only one of Weston's games being the trip to Maidenhead United .

All at the club extend a hearty congratulations to Ludovic and their warmest best wishes.

Seagulls Press Officer Simon Stephens will be doing his best to keep you informed of Ludovicï¿½s progress but it is not thought that club expenses would stretch to taking in the action live!

507 - 22/11/2008

Weston appeal Abraham ban

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare today confirmed that they have lodged an appeal against the red card shown to centre-back Cedric Abraham in the recent Blue Square Conference South fixture at Basingstoke Town.

It is alleged that a Basingstoke supporter lent over the perimeter wall and struck Mr Abraham in the face some 10 minutes from time in the fixture on 11th November. It is further alleged that Weston defender Michael Green was also assaulted in the same incident.

As far as mitigating circumstances against punishment go it is believed that Mr Abraham has the best case possible as he is understood to of retaliated purely in self defence.

Westonï¿½s stand-in Secretary Keith Refault commented ï¿½In the law of the land self defence is an allowable defence.ï¿½

He also went on to say ï¿½If this punishment is allowed to stand it could send a message to supporters that provocation can be used to remove key opposition players so exacerbating the disappointing increase in bad behaviour at football matches.ï¿½

It is understood that a decision will be processed by the F. A. within 7 days.

506 - 20/11/2008

Welsh striker links up with Seagulls

Powerful centre-forward Andy Hammett will link up with Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare for training after leaving Principality Building Society Welsh Premier League side Neath.

23 year old Hammett who was in the Youth side at Westonï¿½s Conference South rivals Newport County had trials with Swansea City and brief spells at Merthyr Tydfil and Barry Town prior to joining Aberystwyth Town .

Abergavenney based Andy also played at Cwmbran and Welsh League Taffs Well before joining Neath.

He joined Pontardawe Town in January 2008.

The move came about after Andyï¿½s work colleague Fred Pratlett, Manager of local side East Worle got in touch with Westonï¿½s Press Officer Simon Stephens through their links with the Weston & District Football league and Andy and his father were invited as guests of Manager Tony Ricketts to the game with Brislington on Tuesday evening.

Ricketts commented

ï¿½I know him (Andy) from Rovers, when he was at Rovers.

He is on contract at Neath until January so nothing will happen until January because we wouldnï¿½t get international clearance.

He is a striker. Big and strong and we will have a good look at him.

Neath have given him permission to train with us so we will have a look over the next few weeks and see what happens.

January is not so far away now.ï¿½

505 - 19/11/2008

After match interview with First Team Manager Tony Ricketts

Following Westonï¿½s Somerset Premier Cup fixture with Brislington First Team Manager Tony Ricketts shared his thoughts on the eveningï¿½s game and on transfer listed winger Dean Grubb.

Below are extracts.

Your thoughtï¿½s on tonightï¿½s game?

T. R.: ï¿½Embarrassing.

We think we are better that what we are and just have to turn up.

I didnï¿½t think they were ever going to score.

Gurney was at fault for the first

Cedric was at fault for the second

Our keeper hasnï¿½t had a save to make and we havenï¿½t worked their keeper

I still feel we need some fresh impetus.

We need to sign one or two but we need to move players on to bring players in.ï¿½

And your thoughts on the situation involving Dean Grubb?

T. R.: ï¿½He apologised for that action (not travelling to Braintree) and we have spoken and we fined him under the clubï¿½s disciplinary procedureï¿½s and have placed him on the transfer list.

Heï¿½s in Spain at this present moment in time trying to sort his head out.

He is a talent, no ifï¿½s and butsï¿½ about that but talent alone doesnï¿½t make a footballer and he has to decide what he needs to do.ï¿½

504 - 18/11/2008

Supporters game gets club backing

The Supporters game with our Basingstoke counterparts is confirmed for next Saturday (29th November) with a 10:30 Kick-Off.

The Match has very kindly been sponsored by Capille & Co. Building Solutions of Weston-super-Mare whilst the Match Ball has also very kindly been sponsored by Manderwood Timber Engineering Ltd of Highbridge.

Thanks are also extended to Oliver Bliss and Weston-super-Mare F. C. for halving the usual rate for the pitch hire.

The generosity of the sponsors has allowed vastly reduced match subs for the people taking part.

We are still looking for a "Referee Sponsor" and if you can help, please contact Simon Stephens on any First or Youth team Match Day or e-mail: [email protected].

The game will take place on pitch 3 (Westlands/Langford pitch)at The Woodspring Stadium and your support would be very much welcome.

Witness the likes of Sean Burke and Andy Mills lace up their boots in an opportunity that money can't buy!

503 - 17/11/2008

Wing Wizard Grubb placed on list by Seagulls

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have placed former Bristol City and Welsh International Dean Grubb on the transfer list following what stand-in Club Secretary Keith Refault described as ï¿½a breach of the clubï¿½s code of conductï¿½.

Weston born Grubb a popular face in the town joined his hometown club in the Summer of 2007 following seven years at Bristol City where he made five appearances for the Welsh Under 19 side and one appearance for the Under 21ï¿½s in a 4-0 victory over Northern Ireland in Belfast.

An impressive start to life at The Woodspring Stadium saw him win the clubï¿½s Player of the Month award for September 2007 and led to interest from Championship side Burnley with Dean playing 90 minutes in a Pontins league fixture against Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park.

Refault said that ï¿½the decision was regrettable but Dean failed to make the coach to Braintree last Saturday and didnï¿½t inform anybody that he wouldnï¿½t be attendingï¿½.

Following some personal issueï¿½s 21 year old Dean jetted to Seville on Saturday morning for a break with his parents who live in the Spanish city.

Whilst Seagulls supporters will be sad to lose a local face in the side (Ryan Havard and Mark Armstrong remain as the only two Weston bred players who are regular members of the squad) it is hoped that the vacancy may be filled by one of the local trio of David Thorne, Sam Clark or Sam Johnson who have found themselves on the periphery of the squad after graduating from the clubs successful Youth Side.

502 - 13/11/2008

After match interview with Westonï¿½s former Basingstoke midfielder Ben Wells

Westonï¿½s former Basingstoke midfielder Ben Wells took time out to speak to the club website following Weston-super-Mareï¿½s Blue Square Conference South game at Basingstoke Town and to share his thoughts on the eveningï¿½s events.

Your first return to your former club. Did you receive a good reception? Any stick?

B. W.: ï¿½I was eager to do well to be honest.

I was looking forward to it, thought I done well, set the goal up and so it shut them up a little bit.ï¿½

Nothing to prove though?

B. W.: ï¿½No, not really.ï¿½

And your thoughts on the game as a whole?

B. W.: ï¿½A bit scrappy.

I thought we could of done a lot better really.

Once we went 1-0 up we sat back a little bit and I think we need to start kicking on once we score the goal, can we get a second or third?

So that is something we need to work on really.ï¿½

I thought the effort levels were really good?

B. W.: ï¿½Yeah.

Excellent, Yeah.

Tremendous defending again, throwing their bodies in front of the ball and anything to win so thatï¿½s good.ï¿½

With it being a tight knit table another three pointï¿½s on Saturday would put a totally different perspective on things and propel us to within touching distance of the play-offï¿½s?

B. W.: ï¿½Yeah thatï¿½s right.

Definitely.

It definitely putï¿½s us in the mix up if we can get three points Saturday as well against Bognor.

That should be a good game.

I think they are running low on confidence and coming off a win I think we can go and win that as well.ï¿½

A rather regrettable note to finish on but I understand two of our lads were victimï¿½s of an assault from a spectator? A cause for concern and perhaps something which shouldnï¿½t of been allowed to happen?

B. W.: ï¿½Yeah, Thatï¿½s right, Yeah.

I think it is pathetic really, fans getting involved.

Obviously it was heat of the moment.

I just think that fans need to grow up.

It is just a shame it happened really and putï¿½s a bit of a downer on a good win.

It should be dealt with really for playerï¿½s safety.ï¿½

501 - 12/11/2008

After match interview with Assistant Manager Andrew Gurney

Assistant Manager Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the club website following Weston-super-Mareï¿½s Blue Square Conference South game at Basingstoke Town and to share his thoughts on the eveningï¿½s events.

Your thoughts on tonightï¿½s game?

A. G.: ï¿½Disappointed with the ball at times.

We havenï¿½t played as we want too with the ball going forward particularly.

Fantastic performance defensively.

The lads have thrown themselves in front of things and worked their socks off and it is a great result really which is always important at the end of the day.ï¿½

A big three points?

A. G.: ï¿½Yeah massive.

Needed a win tonight.

That is four points out of two away games in four days and keeps us in a decent position and in touch with people above us which is what we want to do come around Christmas timeï¿½

In a tight league table, 3 points tonight propels us from just under mid-table in to the top half and puts a totally different complexion on things?

A. G.: ï¿½It will be another difficult game again on Saturday, another away game but if the lads work as hard as they have done tonight then we can go there and get a decent result.

Not looking to far ahead, want to just keep improving, stick in and around where we are and see what else comes.ï¿½

Plenty of effort and commitment from the lads, You and the Gaffer must be happy with that?

A. G.: ï¿½You can never ask for more than that.

You see that people are giving everything that they have got and working their socks off.

When they work as hard as they have defensively, throwing themselves in front of things, working up and down, sometimes you get what you want just through sheer effort.ï¿½

Perhaps an unfortunate issue to finish with but one that none the less perhaps shouldnï¿½t go without mention is that I understand that a couple of our players were assaulted by a member/members of the crowd following an incident towards the end of the game?

A. G.: ï¿½Yeah.

Obviously I am right over the other side of the pitch so canï¿½t really see what happened but no doubt we will look in to that and try and get to the bottom of it and see what happened.ï¿½

Something which shouldnï¿½t have been allowed to take place in the first place?

A. G.: ï¿½No it shouldnï¿½t happen but I canï¿½t really say anything until we know the full circumstances in what happened.ï¿½

500 - 11/11/2008

After match interview with First Team Manager Tony Ricketts

First Team Manager Tony Ricketts took time out to speak to the club website following Weston-super-Mareï¿½s Blue Square Conference South game at Braintree Town and to share his thoughts on the afternoonï¿½s game.

If I could start by asking your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game please?

T. R.: ï¿½Just a little bit disappointed really.

We defended well and Northmore has pulled of three good saves but to let a corner bounce in our box is criminal and that is how they have ended up scoring their goal and then once they had scored we took the game to them again.

Marvin Brown had a great chance to win us the three points.

Whether we deserved the three points , that is another matter but we feel that we defended well and we got 2 points out of our last 3 games when I feel we should have had 7 points from our last 3 games.

We are a bit disappointed.

We canï¿½t keep a clean sheet.

It is putting pressure on the players and the goalkeeper and we just canï¿½t seem to close one out at the moment and that is disappointing.

We are looking stronger at the back:-Michael Green has come in today and played sweeper and done really, really well and I thought Cedric was our best player today and so yeah a bit disappointed Si but I am always a bit disappointed, always want a bit more but after the week we have had we would of settled for a point before the game.

Braintree are a good side.

I donï¿½t know what their budget is but were now competing with a side where we lost here 4-0 last year.

We are moving forward, perhaps not quite as quickly as I would like but once we start keeping a clean sheet we will start moving up the league.

We want to be top half of the league by Christmas.

That was our goal at the start of the season and we dropped a place today on goal difference.

I think we dropped to 14th today but we have got games that we can win, Basingstoke and Bognor.

I said to the boys at the Welling game we have got 5 or 6 games that we are capable of winning and we are and we have been.

Welling we didnï¿½t turn up on the day and they deserved to win but the games that followed, Newport, Bath City, Today, Basingstoke and Bognor it is games that we are capable of winning, the playerï¿½s have got to believe it.

We spent 35 minutes defending till they scored then we spent the next 10 minutes attacking.

We are a young squad and you look at their side mainly experienced and we are still quite young.

If the club keep them together I think we will be a good side.ï¿½

Is there any reason why we had only four substitutes named on the bench today?

T. R.: ï¿½Dean Grubb didnï¿½t travel today.

For whatever reason I donï¿½t know.ï¿½

Has he left the club?

T. R.: ï¿½He is on contract so he canï¿½t go nowhere.

I spoke to him six oï¿½clock last night and he gave me no indication that he wasnï¿½t travelling at six oï¿½clock last night.ï¿½

If I could finish please by asking if we picked up any injuries today?

T. R.: ï¿½We got a couple of whacks but nothing serious that will be a problem for Tuesday so no everything is O. K. Mate.ï¿½

499 - 10/11/2008

Safe hands Purnell answers Yate S. O. S.

Westonï¿½s highly rated teenage Goalkeeper Luke Purnell answered an S. O. S.

from Yate Town Manager Richard Thompson on Saturday.

With regular Yate keeper Lee Matthews unavailable the Weston youngster who received call ups for both the English and British Colleges sides represented the Bluebells in their BGB Southern League Premier Division game at Bedford Town .

Purnell turned in an accomplished performance that was capped by a stunning save from Akin Aladetoun in the closing stages to give the Gloucestershire based side a share of the spoils at the New Eyrie.

498 - 06/11/2008

Striker results 05/11/2008

ï¿½1000 winner T Harrison Y0446

ï¿½500 winner Mrs A McNamara J3663

ï¿½250 winner Mr Fairhurst V5804

ï¿½125 winner J Carter SC0448

No rollover winner therefore rolling over!! Plus 64 paying customers with the same numbers but a different prefix winning ï¿½10!!

Good Luck

Michelle Somers

Gold Striker.

497 - 04/11/2008

After match interview with First Team Manager Tony Ricketts

First Team Manager Tony Ricketts took time out to speak to the club website following Weston-super-Mareï¿½s Blue Square Conference South game against Bath City and to share his thoughts on the afternoonï¿½s game.

If I could start by asking your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game please?

T. R.: ï¿½Obviously bitterly disappointed.

Local derby with no passion and neither keeper making a save throughout the 90 minutes.ï¿½

We had a number of chances? A good opportunity when Mark McKeeverï¿½s shot came back off the bar?

T. R.: ï¿½It was a great piece of skill by McKeever to create the opportunity and have the vision to try the effort and it was a great chance.

Perhaps Mullings was under pressure from the defender and probably did snatch at it but letï¿½s be honest, the lad is not a striker, he is filling in for us and he was one of our better players again today.ï¿½

We deserved at least a point out of it donï¿½t you think?

T. R.: ï¿½I donï¿½t think any team deserved to win or lose it.

I am going to repeat myself; neither keeper has made a save.

You watch the video and neither keeper made a save.

We lacked a bit of creativity going forward and intelligence going forward.

First half we gave the ball away under no pressure at all too many times for my liking and it was only the last sort of quarter of an hour that we sparked in to life really, made a couple of chances.

McGregor perhaps should of done better with his header and Ashan perhaps should of scored from a set-play, corner but you know I donï¿½t think we deserved to lose it but I donï¿½t think we deserved to win it either.ï¿½

Any nostalgia/emotion for you considering Bath was a club where you spent a great deal of time both as a player and a Manager?

T. R.: ï¿½No, no.

Emotions are emotions arenï¿½t they?

I am manager of Weston-super-Mare Football Club and that is the only football club that matters to me at this present moment in time. Simple as that.

Just bitterly disappointed coz I think we should have had at least four points from the last six and we have ended up with one from six and thatï¿½s a disappointment.

Individual errors are costing us dear.ï¿½

Considering there were six ex Weston players in the Bath squad and two ex Bath men in he Weston ranks, perhaps we could have expected a more feisty, passionate encounter?

T. R.: ï¿½I didnï¿½t think there was any passion in it.

For me local derbies are local derbies but I didnï¿½t see any of that today.

I donï¿½t think the Officials helped either but I will get myself in to trouble if I say anymore.ï¿½

Any injuries?

T. R.: ï¿½No.

James Palmer has got a whack on the shin but I think he will be O. K. for Braintree .

McKeeverï¿½s hamstring is a little bit tight but we have come out of it O. K.ï¿½

Any potential player movement in the offing?

T. R.: ï¿½We are always on the lookout.

I think our form over the last six games, five/six games has been very indifferent to say the least and yeah I think we might need to freshen it up a little bit.ï¿½

496 - 03/11/2008

Weston drawn at Home in FA Trophy

In the draw for the 3rd Qualifying round of the F. A. Trophy made today Weston have been handed a home tie against the winners of Tuesday night's 2nd qualifying round replay between Great Wakering Rovers and AFC Sudbury who drew 1-1 on Saturday. The tie takes place on Saturday 22nd of November with a 3pm Kick-Off. Great Wakering Rovers are currently 14th in Ryman Division One North whilst AFC Sudbury lie in 7th in the BGB Southern League Midland Division.

494 - 31/10/2008

Rand return provides timely tonic

Whilst the absence of influential 'enforcer' Andy Gurney through suspension will come as a major set-back for Weston-super-Mare F. C. the sight of Craig Rand taking part in his first full contact training session for 10 months this week will act as a timely tonic for Seagulls supporters.

Former Sheffield Wednesday man Rand an immensely popular figure on the Woodspring terraces, won the Away supporters Player of the year, Players Player of the year and Supporters Player of the year for the 2006/2007 season but has not featured for any length of time since as he has hit a number of set-backs in his return from an injury to the pubic bone with the flare ups understood to be linked to unknowingly playing thought the early stages of the injury.

Weston Manager Tony Ricketts hopes to have Rand in contention within three to four weeks with a possible target for some game time being the County Cup tie against Brislington.

Rand commented ï¿½to say it has been frustrating would be an understatement. The club have been magnificent during my time on the sidelines as have the fans who have shown concern and compassion and I canï¿½t wait to re-pay their faith and get back playing in front of the most passionate and dedicated supporters in the leagueï¿½.

Bristol Rovers and England Youth Doctor Tim Jenkinson a valued contact of Ricketts during his time at the Memorial Stadium has been instrumental in Randï¿½s recovery and the return of the dominant Geordie centre-back will be as good as a new signing for the Seagulls.

493 - 30/10/2008

Striker Results 29/10/2008

ï¿½1000 winner Mrs Kerwan B4551

ï¿½500 winner Mrs J Millington P1317

ï¿½250 winner Mrs P Herbert L6668

ï¿½125 winner Audrey Whitfield N1827

Plus 80 paying members with the same numbers but a different prefix win ï¿½10.

Congratulations to Mrs Murphy who has won the Rollover amount of: ï¿½1500!!!! B6381.

Many apoligies for adding this to the website a day late, but I had problems with the internet.

Thanks and good luck.....

Michelle Somers

Gold Striker!!

492 - 30/10/2008

County call to face Cornwall for Youth Team Starlets

Weston-super-Mare F. C. is proud to announce that the youth team duo of Ben Dancey and Dayle Grubb have received their third call-up from Somerset County this season to represent the South West region at Under 18 level.

Goalkeeper Dancey and central midfielder and Captain Grubb travel to Penryn F. C. this Saturday (4th Nov.) to take on Cornwall in a South West County Championship fixture. Kick-Off is at 2:30pm.

All at the club congratulate both players and wish them well

491 - 29/10/2008

GURNEY TO MISS FOUR GAMES

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare will be without the influential presence of defender/midfielder and Assistant Manager Andrew Gurney for four games following his sending off against Newport County last Monday (20th October) and an accumulation of caution's.

Gurney will be available for this Saturday's visit of Bath City (1st Nov.) but will then sit out the visit's to Braintree Town (8th Nov.), Basingstoke Town (11th Nov.) & Bognor Regis Town (15th Nov.) in Blue Square Conference South and the Somerset Premier Cup 2nd Round Home Tie with Brislington on Tuesday 18th November.

He will next be available for the F. A. Trophy fixture on Saturday 22nd of November (Draw to be made).

490 - 28/10/2008

NEW DATE FOR BASINGSTOKE GAME

Weston-super-Mare F. C.'s Blue Square Conference South fixture at Basingstoke Town will now take place on Tuesday 11th of November 2008 with a 7:45pm kick-off at the Camrose.

The game was scheduled to take place last Saturday but was postponed due to the Hampshire side's F. A. Cup 4th qualifying round tie with Bury Town.

489 - 25/10/2008

Weston Legend on the move

Former Weston utility man Richard Chattoe, a member of the clubï¿½s Western League Premier Division title winning side in the 1991-92 season has taken the next step in his managerial career by leaving Vodkat North West Counties Premier Division side Silsden where he has been Assistant Manager for the past 10 months to take up a similar position at Unibond Division 1 North side Harrogate Railway.

488 - 22/10/2008

Striker Results 22/10/2008

ï¿½1000 winning name Mr Mowe SB6814

ï¿½500 winning name Mrs D Cavanaugh U3278

ï¿½250 winning name Gavin Sherriff R6953

ï¿½125 winning name N Difford WG5778

Total of 69 consolations at ï¿½10.

No Rollover winner this week therefore rolling over to next week.

Thanks and good luck!!

Michelle Somers, Gold Striker.

487 - 21/10/2008

After match interview with Newport County Manager Dean Holdsworth

Former England B International Dean Holdsworth was appointed Newport County Manager in May after a successful initiation at Ryman League Division 1 North side Redbridge.

The Walthamstow born striker had an illustrious playing career that is best remembered for his time in the Premier League with Wimbledon and Bolton Wanderers and saw spells with Watford, Carlisle United, Swansea City, Brentford, Coventry City & Rushden & Diamonds.

39 year old Dean had a brief spell at Derby County as Assistant Manager to current Hull boss Phil Brown prior to taking the Redbridge post.

Following Newportï¿½s visit to the Woodspring Stadium on Monday evening he took time out to speak to Press Officer Simon Stephens.

Dean, if I could start by asking you your opinions on the playing surface, facilities and set-up at Weston?

D. H.: ï¿½I was impressed tonight.

I thought the grass and pitch was fantastic considering that it had been rained on all day.

I think the facilities are decent, could do with a little bit of a tidy up now and again in little places but in general I think it is a good stadium.

I have enjoyed playing here.

I think it is good for the fans.

Yeah, I like it.ï¿½

If I could then go on to ask your thoughts on tonightï¿½s game please?

D. H.: ï¿½Well my personal thoughts ï¿½ Itï¿½s difficult as a Manager not to be one sided but I felt really pleased that we came away and my players I thought we dominated the second half particularly.

Weston have had one shot and scored a very good goal, Iï¿½ll give them that, It was a very good goal but I felt we dominated the game and it would have been absolutely mind blowing to think we could of actually come away from here tonight with nothing.ï¿½

You donï¿½t think you were at all fortunate then?

Particularly with the nature of your goal and itï¿½s timing?

D. H.: ï¿½No, no.

We got what we deserved and sometimes in football you donï¿½t get that and tonight we deserved at least a point.

When you see the ball hitting the post and chances going amiss you think maybe it is not your night, keep it tight at the back but we let them score a good goal but a goal like that deserves all itï¿½s praise.ï¿½

Based on what you have seen of Weston this evening and comparing them to other sides you have faced so far this season, where would you see them finishing up?

D. H.: ï¿½I think they are a decent side, some decent players, organised and have got some experience based on as much as I have seen of them tonight.

We are going to have to be realistic. They are not going to be a club who are going to go out and spend a lot of money on players so they are going to have to get players from the area geographically right.

I think they are a decent side.

They have got some ability.

They play the ball off the feet which is not bad so yeah, I think they will be fine.ï¿½

Yourself personally, I understand you are under a little pressure?

Are you feeling that?

D. H.: ï¿½There is always pressure at this club because we have got a passionate set of fans and it is a club which wants to achieve things but we are trying to manage and be realistic with our expectationï¿½s due to different financial things but I am looking at my squad and thinking that I have got a very good squad.

I am looking at adding maybe one or two over the next month or so but I am more than happy to go out with that squad on the pitch because I feel they have got some fantastic ability and maybe that little bit of luck tonight may kick us on again and we look forward to Saturday now.ï¿½

If I could finish with a few words on the Newport supporters?

Considering your current placing they travelled in good numbers and are perhaps deserving of a bit more?

D. H.: ï¿½Yeah.

They are always going to turn up because they want to see Newport win as we do.

Those things like tonight make you stronger and we go out Saturday now, turn up on Thursday looking forward to Saturday and we will look to build on what we have got tonight.ï¿½

484 - 17/10/2008

Football Fun Days

Our exclusive FOOTBALL FUN DAYS are designed to offer young footballers the opportunity to participate in 4 days of professional football coaching that is delivered by UEFA accredited Football Coach RYAN NORTHMORE & MARK MCKEEVER

The ethos of these Fun Days is to improve the player's technical ability, increase your child's physical activity and promote fair play.

The football complex at WSM AFC is again the venue for the Fun Days. The complex has superb facilities with the use of two training pitches, indoor sports hall, first team pitch and changing rooms for both girls & boys.

The dates of the next FUN DAYS are

28, 29, 30 & 31 October 2008

The cost of the FUN DAYS are

SEAGULLS-ï¿½10.00 per day or ï¿½32.00 for the full four days

NON-SEAGULLS-ï¿½12.00 per day or ï¿½40.00 for all four days

Please bring indoor and outdoor footwear, rain jacket as well as a packed lunch.

Please arrive at 8:45am. The sessions will start at 9am and finish at 3pm

PLACES ARE LIMITED-For more information and to secure your place, call 01934 621 618.

485 - 17/10/2008

Weston dismiss Clevedon interest

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare have dismissed out of hand tentative interest shown by BGB Southern League strugglers and bitter rivals Clevedon Town in taking two of their stars on loan.

The contracted duo of winger Dean Grubb (pictured) and central midfielder James Palmer have featured sporadically for the Seagulls this season but both are understood to have expressed a desire not to become involved in a bottom of the table scrap with the relegation haunted Seasiders and are keen to fight for their place at The Woodspring Stadium.

486 - 17/10/2008

Weston-super-Mare V Newport County. Match procedures.

PRE-MATCH

Newport supporters will be allowed into the large function room, The Somerset Suite, for drinks before the game. The bar will close at 7.15pm, 30 minutes before kick off and will remain closed until after the final whistle. Nobody will be allowed in at Half Time.........

The supporters will then be directed around to the away turnstiles where both will be open. Programmes will be on sale here as well as in the function room...............

Newport supporters will be allocated the two open ends of the Stadium

Refreshments / Toilets will be available ..........................

ANY SUPPORTER who intends to bring a bag into the ground will have that bag searched.

Providing there has been a peaceful atmosphere throughout the game then the Somerset Suite will be open after the final whistle..........................

DISABLED / ELDERLY

They will of course be treated with respect and will be allowed into the Stands. This also applies to any Families who travel to the game. There will be a police presence throughout the game.

483 - 17/10/2008

Further representative honours for youth team duo

Weston-super-Mare F. C. is proud to announce that following their successful under 18's bow for Somerset the youth team duo of Ben Dancey and Dayle Grubb have received a second call-up.

Goalkeeper Dancey and central midfielder and Captain Grubb will represent their county tomorrow when they take on The Amateur Football Alliance in the First Round of The F. A. County Youth Cup in a game that kicks off at 2:00pm and takes place at The Hand Stadium in Clevedon.

All at the club congratulate both players and wish them well

482 - 16/10/2008

Seagulls star in International success!

Westonï¿½s left sided defender/midfielder Ludovic Quistin flew back to the U. K. today after a successful trio of games for Guadeloupe saw his home nation qualify for the finals of the Digicel Caribbean Cup in Jamaica this December.

In the opening game last Saturday Guadeloupe beat Cayman Islands 7-1 with Ludovic replacing Cedric Collett for the final 32 minutes.

On Monday the home nation recorded their second victory when they defeated Grenada 2-1 and Ludovic was brought on for Lery Hannay 8 minutes in to the second half.

Guadeloupe made it 3 wins from 3 last night and topped their group courtesy of the 3-1 victory over Martinique with Quistin completing 90 minutes .

The top 3 nations from Decemberï¿½s finals will qualify for the 2009 Concaf Gold Cup.

It is understood that Quistin will go straight in to the Weston squad to visit Welling in Blue Square Conference South on Saturday.

480 - 16/10/2008

Weston Legend turns down return to Seagulls

Weston Manager Tony Ricketts has been rebuffed in his attempts to bring in a new goalkeeper after Tiverton number 1 Steve Book turned down a return to the Seagulls.

39 year old Book was part of the Weston side that won the Great Mills (Western) League Premier Division title in the 1991-1992 season and has spent the early part of this season with the Yellows after joining in the Summer.

Book whoï¿½s career came to prominence at Woodspring Park went on to enjoy great success at Cheltenham Town in the late 90ï¿½s helping them to the F. A. Trophy and Conference title in 1998 followed by promotion to league one.

He is currently goalkeeping coach at League One side Bristol Rovers.

Bookï¿½s decision may well hand the opportunity to highly rated local goalkeeper Luke Purnell(pictured) to put pressure on number one Ryan Northmore who has so often been the clubï¿½s saviour in recent seasons.

479 - 15/10/2008

BASINGSTOKE FIXTURE POSTPONED

At the time of writing Weston will be without a game on Saturday 25th October due to Basingstoke's progress in the F. A. Cup.

Basingstoke won 3-0 in a 3rd Qualifying Round replay at Bashley last night and will travel to Bury Town in the 4th Qualifying Round on the 25th.

478 - 15/10/2008

STRIKER RESULTS

ï¿½1000.00 Mr. Oxley H5871

ï¿½500.00 k. Loobey W1583

ï¿½250.00 G. Swallow A4060

ï¿½125.00 S. Frost O1074

NO WINNER THIS WEEK THEREFORE ROLLING OVER UNTIL NEXT WEEK

476 - 11/10/2008

Youth Team Starlets impress in Somerset fixture

Youth Team goalkeeper Ben Dancey and Midfielder and Captain Dayle Grubb both played 90 minutes in Somerset ï¿½s 2-2 draw with Wiltshire at Paulton Rovers in the South and South West Youth Championship.

Somerset found themselves 2-0 down after 20 minutes before Ben Lacey (Paulton Rovers) pulled a goal back just before the interval and Jake Harris ( Clevedon Town ) salvaged a point with a last minute strike.

475 - 10/10/2008

Former Seagulls find new nests

Two former Weston players found themselves new homes this week.

Powerful French Striker Wilfried Domoroad who made a huge impression with the Seagulls at the tail end of last season whilst on loan from Yeovil Town has put pen to paper on a one year contract with Blue Square Premier side Woking.

20 year old Wilfried who scored 5 goals in 14 appearances for Weston scored the winning goal for the Cards in their Blue Square Premier fixture with Histon last weekend and was offered contract terms the following Friday.

Meanwhile former Cardiff City Youth Team Captain and left-back Bradley Middleton who sensationally walked out of The Woodspring Stadium last month a little over a month after joining the Seagulls has linked up with Southern League Division One South & West side Bridgwater Town.

474 - 09/10/2008

Striker Results 08/10/08

ï¿½1000 winner K Rabbitts WD1341

ï¿½500 winner Elaine Browning W3014

ï¿½250 winner S. Worgan WG0934

ï¿½125 winner Mrs P Kenyan X4721

67 cosolation winners recieve ï¿½10

Rollover extra has been won!!! Congratulations to C.L Williams you have won the rollover prize of ï¿½5500!!!!! The winning number was E4233.

Thank you and good luck

Michelle Somers Gold Striker.

473 - 09/10/2008

After match interview with midfielder Jason Burt

Weston-super-Mare midfielder Jason Burt is currently on loan at BGB Southern League division 1 South & West side Taunton Town and after playing against the Seagulls in Monday nights Somerset Premier Cup tie he took time out to speak to the club website.

Could I start of by asking you how the loan came about and how long it is for?

J. B.: ï¿½As far as I know, there is no sort of time frame.

It is just a case of getting games and just playing because obviously I didnï¿½t get many games last year.

I have been out for a month through injury and tonight is only my second game back for Taunton.

It is just to get games and as far as I know it is just until Ricko recalls me.ï¿½

Your thoughts on tonight are game?

J. B.: ï¿½It wasnï¿½t too bad.

Obviously it is difficult for me to say as I am involved with both clubs.

Weston created a lot of holes but I think that the recent results for Taunton and they way that we have been playing havenï¿½t been too great so I thought it was a good step forward for Taunton as well for the performance tonight as well.ï¿½

472 - 08/10/2008

After match interview with Weston Manager Tony Ricketts

Weston-super-Mare First Team Manager Tony Ricketts spoke to the club website to share his thoughts on Saturdays Blue Square South victory over Essex visitors Thurrock.

Your thoughts on todayï¿½s game?

T. R.: ï¿½It was relief more than anything else.

We played alright first half and created a few chances but I just feel that we let the supporters of Weston and the people behind the scenes down last week with our performance in the F. A. cup.

It was a big game for us and we didnï¿½t step up to the plate.

Like I said, It will take me personally a long time to get over that.ï¿½

With Mondays game being one that we should be looking to win coupled with todayï¿½s victory, hopefully we can make it a run of victories and turn it in to a ï¿½winning habitï¿½?

T. R.: ï¿½Andy Gurney and I sat down after last Saturday and had a real frank discussion to be honest with you.

We have got four or five games that we are capable of winning.

The side that played the first nine or ten games of the season didnï¿½t show up in the last three games.

The Chelmsford side are a good side and o. k. we lost 3-1 to them but they are proving a good side as they beat Eastleigh again today but our performance at Bromley and our performance in the F. A. cup is not acceptable.

I sat down with the players and said ï¿½I donï¿½t knowï¿½ as a Coach and as a Managerï¿½. If you donï¿½t know, you donï¿½t know your best team, you donï¿½t know what is going to turn up on the day then it is a bit of a worry.

We have got some very very capable players and the way we have trained in the week prior to the F. A, cup and the way we have trained in the week just gone past.

We step out on the pitch and donï¿½t take responsibility but there were signs today that we worked hard and we played some good stuff 1st half at times and especially after we went 1-0 down and we showed some character which we didnï¿½t make silly mistakes.

Their goal was a worldy really.

From 35 yards, I could turn round and look at the keeper and look at the wall but it is a great strike and it looked like it went in top corner so you have got to say hats off to little Jon Docker who is a good player.

We fancied him last year when he was at Dorchester.

It was a great strike but we showed some character and came back from there.ï¿½

A few brave decisions you made on team selection today? Chopped it and changed a little bit?

T. R.: ï¿½We have only got a small squad of 16 or 17.

They probably wouldnï¿½t mind me saying it but my two centre-halfï¿½s and my goalkeeper last week in the F. A. cup had nightmares.

Young Ryan Paddock had done really well at left back and I thought Cedric was at fault for a couple of the goals against Chelmsford so I changed it and played young Paddock in there and in hindsight I probably got that wrong.

Perhaps I should of played Cedric against his old club last week but Cedricï¿½s still learning and still got a lot to learn at this level.

Brave decisions but Managers make decisions and like I said, we have got 16 or 17 players and what I need is any of those 16 or 17 if they are in the starting 11 to be able to perform to the best of their ability and if we can do that then there is no question that we can finish in the top half of the table.

You know, Bromley, Charlie Comyn-Platt has been our best player but he has gifted three goals in three games prior to today and Charlie was a bit back to his old self today.

It is just getting a happy balance and brave decisions, that is what Managers make.

Like I said we got the result right today but perhaps I got the team wrong last week.ï¿½

Darren Mullings adapted well to playing up front? Looked good?

T. R.: ï¿½I know what I get from Darren Mullings week in week out.

I had him as a kid and he works his socks off and his movement today and his harassment of the two centre-halfï¿½s made a difference to us today.

It is something that we lacked last week and have lacked in a few games recently really.ï¿½

Ludovic did well in only his second start at left back?

T. R.: ï¿½Going forward fine.

I donï¿½t think Ludovic is a left back after seeing him in a few games.

Defensively I think he takes too many chances in the defensive third.

Ludovic is away on International duty now for two weeks so he wonï¿½t be available but he has done alright and perhaps if we can get Ludovic further forward and McKeever off the shape then we may have something else there.ï¿½

Will you be looking to bring somebody else in to cover his absence?

T. R.: ï¿½No.

Last weekï¿½s defeat in the F. A. cup has scuppered the chance of bringing anybody else in at this moment in time.

I am running just a little bit over budget so it will be a case of trimming rather than bringing players in.

We sent a circular out this week saying that we had players available for loan or transfer just to try and balance the books and to try and freshen things up.

I would love us to keep a clean sheet but we havenï¿½t kept a clean sheet all season.

We have only failed to score in one game but last season proved and the season before proved that we need to be tighter in defence if we want to achieve more this season.ï¿½

Jason Burt, will he be in the Taunton side?

T. R.: ï¿½Yes he will.ï¿½

You donï¿½t mind him being cup-tied?

T. R.: ï¿½Burty needs to play games.

He was here last season and I think it will be a good test for him to see how he shapes up against some of our players.

For me it will be good to see him as an opponent.

He needs to play regularly, week in, week out and we will go from there.

We are not struggling for central-midfield players.

That is not a problem for us as we have got 4 or 5 who can play in there and do a half decent job.ï¿½

Did you feel under any pressure personally going in to todayï¿½s game?

T. R.: ï¿½Am I feeling pressure myself?

No.

The only pressure I have I put on myself.

I would of walked away last Saturday quite easily because I didnï¿½t expect the result and didnï¿½t see it coming. We did all the right preparation. The boys were bright. We had them (Chesham) watched.

The only pressure I put on myself.

I considered walking away last Saturday but I am a fighter and they are my players that I have got and I believe in them.

An easy option would have been to walk away but you know I want them to turn up.

I thought Ashan played well today and Iï¿½ve given him an ultimatum really.

He has got everything, he has got everything.

Plays left side, right side, plays off either side, head the ball, strong, quick but so far this season just hasnï¿½t proved it for us and I pulled him before todayï¿½s game and said time to get your finger out because otherwise?

You know my opinions on it. I think we have got 3 or 4 that can go back to the football league and I think he is one of them but he has not been doing the business so far for us this season and he has produced today and he needs to produce on a consistent basis.

I put pressure on myself and like I said we let the supporters and that at Weston football club down last week and that is a massive blow, If you are a supporter of a non-league side, to go out of the F. A. cup like we did.

It is 4 mistakes.

The goalkeeper and two centre halfï¿½s. You canï¿½t dwell on it but it hurt and behind the scenes I think yes I was under pressure.

I think there were a few people today that would of liked to of seen us get beat.

A Coach or Manager is only as good as his players and like I said, I believe in my players and I have got no doubts today listening to some of the shouts that there was one or two that wanted us to get beat today.ï¿½

Who?

T. R.: ï¿½Letï¿½s just say people involved with the club.ï¿½

What, not supporters?

T. R.: ï¿½I think one or two supporters would like a change.

I think there is one or two people behind the scenes that would like a change and there is one or two players who arenï¿½t currently flavour of the month who probably would like a change as well.ï¿½

471 - 07/10/2008

GOOD LUCK LUDOVIC!

Weston-super-Mare F. C. left-back/left-midfielder Ludovic Quistin flew out to Guadeloupe today to represent the host nation in Stage 2 of The Digicel Caribbean Cup.

The Stade Rene Serge Nabajoth in Guadeloupe will play host to Guadeloupe v The Cayman Islands on Saturday (11th Oct.) in a game that kicks off at 8pm local time. On Monday (13th Oct.) the same venue will see Grenada tackle the hosts in another 8pm (local time) kick-off whilst the final game in the group takes place next Wednesday (15th Oct.) when Guadeloupe take on Martinique, also kicking off at 8pm.

Ludovic will be hoping he can help his team mates through to the final of the Tournament which takes place in Jamaica in December.

The Top three nations from December's Finals will qualify for the Concaf Gold Cup 2009.

Amongst Ludovic's team mates is expected to be Cardiff City defender Miguel Commingues and Former Manchester City man David Sommeil whilst Blackburn Rovers former Bristol Rovers striker Jason Roberts represents Grenada.

Due to Weston not having a fixture next Saturday (11th) it is hoped that Quistin will only miss the Somerset Premier Cup game with Taunton and all being well, should be available for the trip to Welling on the 18th of October.

Press Officer Simon Stephens will be doing his best to keep Seagulls supporters informed of the latest from the Caribbean although the club's expenses would not stretch to him taking in the action live!

470 - 06/10/2008

Youth Team Starlets in County Call-Up

Weston-super-Mare F. C. is proud to announce that Goalkeeper Ben Dancey and Midfielder & Captain Dayle Grubb have been selected to represent Somerset in the South and West Counties Youth Championship.

Somerset host Wiltshire at Paulton Rovers F. C. on Thursday evening in a game that kicks-off at 7:30PM and it is hoped that there will be a large contingent of travelling support from Weston to support Ben and Dayle as their make their County Under 18's bow.

Travel details are available from the club's Press Officer on [email protected].

469 - 04/10/2008

Weston Manager Tony Ricketts looks ahead to Mondays Somerset Premier Cup 1st round tie with Taunton Town

Weston-super-Mare First Team Manager Tony Ricketts spoke to the club website to share his thoughts on Monday nightï¿½s Somerset Premier Cup fixture with Taunton Town .

Your thoughts on the Taunton game?

Will it be a chance to give squad players a run out?

T. R.: ï¿½We will pick our best team.

Is it a competition that you think we should be looking to win?

T. R.: ï¿½Yes.

You know the club has never won it so you know, Paulton beat us on penalties last year and we will be putting out a strong side against Taunton , that is about it.

If we were still in the F. A. Cup and still in the Setanta Shield it might be a different kettle of fish but we are not, we are out.

We have got 17 players here plus a few of the youth team and we are looking to win it.ï¿½

468 - 02/10/2008

Manager Tony Ricketts looks ahead to Saturday's fixture with Thurrock

Weston-super-Mare First Team Manager Tony Ricketts spoke to the club website to share his thoughts on Saturdays Blue Square South fixture with Essex visitors Thurrock .

Your thoughts on Saturdays game with Thurrock ?

T. R.: ï¿½Itï¿½s a must win game.

You want players to respond and bounce back. The Chelmsford game and the Bromley game and then you have got an F. A. Cup game. You would think that they would want to bounce back from that.

I am going to be honest with you. I have said in the Dressing Room afterwards. We have had a right old heart to heart. I think I am better than what I am.

They think they are better than what they are and the bottom line is that unless we are working hard, you know the substitutions I made ( v Chesham), did they make any difference?

You know players sulk about being left out of the side but when they go out on the pitch they have got to back it up and make it difficult for me to leave them out.

Gurns did alright but you know I am gutted.ï¿½

Could you tell me where Ryan Havard was on Saturday?

T. R.: ï¿½He was working away.ï¿½

467 - 02/10/2008

Player of the Month for August

PRIOR to Saturday's game, player/assistant manager Andrew Gurney was awarded the club's Player of the Month award for August after seeing off stiff competition from Charlie Comyn-Platt, Darren Mullings and Ben Wells. The award was sponsored and presented by Chris Board of Edge Barbers, 59 Alfred Street, Weston.

466 - 01/10/2008

Striker Results 01/10/08

ï¿½1000 winner T Millings SA2297

ï¿½500 winner Barbara Powis G4730

ï¿½250 winner P Yates X0537

ï¿½125 winner Bob Kameem V1085

Plus 65 members with the same numbers but with a different prefixwin ï¿½10

No rollover winner thi week therefore rolling over to ï¿½5500!!

Thank ypu and good luck

Michelle Somers, Gold Striker.

465 - 30/09/2008

After match interview with Westonï¿½s First Team Manager Tony Ricketts

Following Weston-super-Mare F. C.ï¿½s F. A. Cup 2nd Qualifying Round tie with Chesham United First Team Manager Tony Ricketts took time out to speak to the clubï¿½s website.

If I could start by asking for your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game please?

T. R.: ï¿½Embarrassed.

They wanted it more than us and won the game and we gifted them four goals as far as I am concerned, so embarrassed.

Embarrassed for the playerï¿½s and myself as they let Weston-super-Mare Football Club down and I think they let the supporters down and I think we have let all the people that work behind the sceneï¿½s down and their can be no excuses.

They just wanted it more than us. We canï¿½t gift them goals.

You know, Northmore the first one. Whether he was fouled or whether he was not you know that is bread and butter.

The second one we should of shut the shop down quicker.

The third one, Ashï¿½s own goal, you know Ash should be clearing that. His player has got a run off him and then young Ryan Paddock was, well let the 10 score with a free header so you know as far as I am concerned it is four poor goals.

I have got to take responsibility I suppose. I picked the team. I thought I picked a team that would work hard and want it more than them.

I probably in hindsight got the team selection wrong but that is football.ï¿½

You donï¿½t think there was good fortune in any of the Chesham goals then? Ryan impeded for the first?

T. R.: ï¿½I donï¿½t know. I am not sure.ï¿½

A deflection for the third?

T. R.: ï¿½Yes but you know his lad has spun off round the back and if he had marked his lad then he wouldnï¿½t be heading it there anyway.

Itï¿½s just schoolboy stuff.

Gurnï¿½s hit the nail on the head after the game when he said you know ï¿½if it was 12 year old schoolboys you would probably accept itï¿½ but we are talking about people who have played professional football and been involved with professional football clubï¿½s and we have now conceded 11 goals in 3 games which is the same old same old as last year.

This month is a killer.

That is four and a half thousand pounds down the drain.

2 thousand pounds at Eastleigh in the Setanta Shield and that is a good player.

The money that they would of brought in would of brought in another good player.ï¿½

Were Chesham two goals better than us today?

T. R.: ï¿½No.

You score two at home. Mark McKeever has done really well and taken his two goalï¿½s well and he has worked his socks off.

He has come out of it today with a lot of credit but you score two goals at home and you should win football matches.

My two centre halfï¿½s were not at the races today. They got bullied by the 10 and the 9ï¿½s pace and movement has caused them problems all afternoon. Hence why I made the substitution.

I might of got that wrong today playing young Paddock in at centre-half. I didnï¿½t think he deserved to be left out of the side.

Cedric was at fault for at least one of the goals last week so we changed it around a bit and like I said earlier, I probably got that wrong today.ï¿½

You said previously that you break the season down in to segments of 10 games. You must be happy with the first 10 league games, the points and where we are in the table?

T. R.: ï¿½Yes. That is a positive Simon.

We would of settled for the pointï¿½s that we have in the bag in the league but we are out of the Setanta Shield, we are out of the F. A, Cup and the F. A. Cup, you probably read my programme notes, the F. A. Cup is the oldest competition in the world.

I have had lots of good times in the competition and this is one of my all time lows.

When I was a player at Bath we got beat at Frome Town in the F. A. Cup who were a Western League side and we were a Conference side and we got beat 2-1 and this ranks amongst my worst F. A. Cup moment because I warned playerï¿½s about the desire and there is always upsetï¿½s and I mentioned it in my programme notes and I mentioned it to the players before hand and I wanted them to be positive.

We started really realy well.

For the first 6 minutes they didnï¿½t touch the ball and then we are three down before the 15th minute through poor defending.ï¿½

You were not happy with the effort shown then?

T. R.: ï¿½No. I wasnï¿½t happy with the efforts.

Second half we scored early on. How many saves did our keeper make second half?

We are 4-2 down and I have got probably are most attacking line-up on the pitch.

I had Marvin on there, Ashan on there, McGregor on there, McKeever on there and the only shot that we had on target in the second half is the one that went in from McKeever.

I am embarrassed today.ï¿½

Looking at the big picture, It has been a good start to the season but it must be a concern that psychologically we do not allow this run of games to be habit forming?

T. R.: ï¿½I think this group of playerï¿½s are good enough to finish mid-table, I really do but itï¿½s no good me saying it, they have got to do it and if we continue to defend like we have done for the last three games then we are in trouble.

It is a bitter bitter blow today for everybody.

Without going over old ground, Cheshamï¿½s desire and commitment was better than ours today and there is no excuse for that.ï¿½

Thank-you for your time Tony. If I could finish by asking you if we sustained any injuries?

T. R.: ï¿½Ben Willshire got a kick up the ass. A knee in his glut muscle but apart from that no.ï¿½

464 - 29/09/2008

After match interview with Westonï¿½s Ryan Paddock

Following Weston-super-Mare F. C.ï¿½s F. A. Cup 2nd Qualifying Round tie with Chesham United centre-back Ryan Paddock took time out to speak to the Club Website.

He discussed that afternoonï¿½s game, how September panned out for him as a player and how he thinks Weston will finish the season.

If I could start off by asking your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game please?

R. P.: ï¿½Obviously it didnï¿½t go too well.

We went in to the game, we were up for it, and I thought we were up for it.

The first 5/10 minutes we battered them but we gave them the game.

We were the bigger team, the better team but all they needed was a lift and only we could give it to them and we gave it to them and they got the lift and then from there they got stronger and stronger and we didnï¿½t do anything about it,

First half we had the 7 best chances of the game but if you donï¿½t take your chances you are not going to win.ï¿½

Any good fortune in their goals? Did Ryan (Northmore) get clattered for the first?

R. P.: ï¿½I think it was but defending wise it was poor.

I mean, before the cross came in, the whole build-up to it, you just canï¿½t blame any single person.

It is the whole build-up of it and we didnï¿½t stop it and we got punished and it is by our own doing.ï¿½

The third goal coming through a deflection?

R .P.: ï¿½Yes.

The only good goal they scored was the lad whoï¿½s hit it from about 25 yards out and still we could of done something about that.

Got on the end of it, Got a block in but we never.

The other two goals we gave to them.ï¿½

Looking at it, a home draw against a team from two leaguesï¿½ lower-You have really got to be looking to progress?

R. P.: ï¿½You have got to be looking to win at home havenï¿½t you?

Two leagueï¿½s below really doesnï¿½t matter.You have got to be looking to win.

If you are conceding goals like that you are never going to win whether it is home or away or whoever you are against.ï¿½

Looking at the big picture though, 11TH and top half of the table. We would of taken that at the start of the season? We definitely shouldnï¿½t be too disheartened?

R. P.:ï¿½Definateley.

I think the last three gamesï¿½ we have dipped a bit.

I donï¿½t know what has gone on there but I am sure we will pick it back up.

We have got a good enough squad so hopefully we can, come Saturday, go straight back in to it.

Prove some people wrong again and just go again.

You had to be patient to make your breakthrough at Weston but September from a personal perspective must be pleasing in that you started every game?

R. P.:ï¿½Yes, Definitely.

I came to the squad late. I knew I wasnï¿½t going to walk straight in. You have to earn your place in the team.

Up until now I thought I have done reasonably well. Up until today when I thought I was poor.

Personally I thought I was really poor compared to what I should be playing at but other than that I am fairly pleased with how I have done over the past month.

Yeah, Just got to keep going.ï¿½

If I can finish by asking you, how you think the season will pan out for Weston?

R. P.:ï¿½Well, If we keep going the way that we have started we will have no problem.

Mid-Table, I think we have got to be looking at that but if we keep going the last three games like we have been going we need to start kicking on because if we carry on like that we will be in a relegation battle.

We are better than that I think.

I think all the lads know that we are better than that but you have just got to work hard and get back to how and were we were at the start of the season.ï¿½

462 - 29/09/2008

History makers?

Ben Dancey became the third member of the same family to don the Weston colourï¿½s when he made his debut for Weston Youth in their opening pre-season friendly at Weymouth.

Benï¿½s father Martin is a ï¿½terrace legendï¿½ at the Woodspring Stadium having made over 250 appearances for the Seagulls in the late 70ï¿½s and early 80ï¿½s whilst Benï¿½s brother Tom made his first team debut in the last home fixture of the 2005/2006 season when Weston faced Bognor Regis Town.

Weston F. C. are asking their supporters if this is a record and if anyone is aware of a family that has equalled or exceeded this achievement, they are asked to e-mail Press Officer Simon Stephens on [email protected].

There are certainly a number of families who have had two members represent the club.

Two members of the same family are currently with the club with Dean Grubb staring in the first team and brother Dayle expected to be a main stay in this seasonï¿½s youth side.

Michael Norton and Nephew Mark Vowles played in the same Weston side that faced Clevedon in a Southern League fixture at the clubï¿½s former home Woodspring Park whilst Tony Bass and son Jon have both played a number of first team games for the Seagulls.

Bath City Manager John Relish and his son Lee (Manager at Cinderford Town) both played in the same Weston side whilst the Price brothers, Mark and Jason were a regular fixture in the Weston line-up during the 90ï¿½s.

463 - 29/09/2008

Statement from Weston-super-Mare F. C.:

In view of Saturday's result the club are bitterly disappointed in going out of the F. A. Cup at such an early stage of the competition.

The Club can now concentrate all efforts in maintaining our Blue Square status.

461 - 25/09/2008

Striker Results 24/09/08

ï¿½1000 winner Miss B Colette Y5372

ï¿½500 winner Mrs Beadows L5806

ï¿½250 winner Y Chaney WB0521

ï¿½125 winner Pritchard N1282

Rolling over to ï¿½4500 as no rollover winner.

460 - 20/09/2008

Holgate and McGregor in race to be fit!

Ashan Holgate and Marc McGregor face a race to be fit ahead of Weston's Blue Square Conference South fixture with Chelmsford City.

Holgate was rushed in to hospital with appendicitis on Thursday and it is hoped that he will be discharged later today. McGregor has been bed ridden today following a nasty bout of food poisoning but it is understood that he is over the worse of it. Both player's face a race to be ready in time to take on their Essex visitor's tomorrow.

459 - 17/09/2008

Striker Results 17/09/2008

ï¿½1000 winner is J Birdshaw P1797

ï¿½500 winner is J Allen SA5304

ï¿½250 winner is V Edwards Q0194

ï¿½125 winner is Mrs Paget

Total consolations 61

No rollover this week therefore rolling over to ï¿½4,500.

The results for next weeks draw are going to be put on the website on Thursday morning before 12 midday instead of a Wednesday by 5pm.this is a one off!!!

Thanks and good luck!!!

Michelle Somers Gold Striker

458 - 15/09/2008

After match interview with First Team Manager Tony Ricketts

First Team Manager Tony Ricketts took time out to speak to the club website following Weston-super-Mareï¿½s Blue Square Conference South game at Bromley to share his thoughts on the afternoonï¿½s game.

If I could start by asking your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game please?

T. R.: ï¿½It seems to be that every time we lose I am bitterly disappointed.We didnï¿½t play today. We got what we deserved.From start to finish we were lethargic.

We left 4, 5 playersï¿½s out against Eastleigh in the Setanta Cup on Tuesday and started those playerï¿½s today.

It is our first performance; well Hampton & Richmond as well were when we are bad we are bad.We didnï¿½t do the basics today.

Weï¿½ve been undone at two set-plays which is unheard of.Marc McGregor and Cedric for the first one straight after half-time.

Gurns for the third one, the free header by the centre forward then obviously the second goal, Charlie Comyn-Platt and Ryan Northmore should of done better with it.

I said to Charlie I think you should of headed it and he said there was no communication.

It was 3 poor goals.We got what we deserved. We have had a good start and I am not going to get carried away with it.

We bounced back from the Hampton and Richmond game and it seems this year, I have said it on several occasionï¿½s that everybody is beating everybody else looking at todayï¿½s results but we need to get back to the basics where we work hard.

We work hard collectively as a unit. I am not saying that playerï¿½s didnï¿½t work hard today because they did but we werenï¿½t as collective today as what we normally are.

We had too many playersï¿½ that had off days and we gave the ball away far too often. It was the same at Eastleigh .

I donï¿½t want my teamï¿½s to bosh the ball but every time we come up against big physical sides who just bosh it forward we tend to struggle and that is what we did today. Too many playersï¿½ had off days.ï¿½

Bromley by no means the best side that we have played so far?

T. R.: ï¿½No. They have had a lot of injuries. The striker that came back today, that is his first game for a while.

Morrell is it?ï¿½

Hockton?

T. R.: ï¿½No.

Hockton has been on the bench. Heï¿½s been fit all season but been in and out of the team.

They have got those two back and they are big strong boys.

Bromley pay good money so they wonï¿½t be far away come the end of the season but if you ask me, no I donï¿½t think they are one of the best sideï¿½s that we have played this season but they were better than us today and they thoroughly deserved their 3-0 Victory.ï¿½

Any injuries?

T. R.: ï¿½We have picked up a few today. The first time for a while.

Gurney, calf.

Comyn-Platt, calf.

I will look at it on the DVD that Bromley are going to send us but that was a bizarre goal. I said about the communication earlier but Charlie reckons he has whacked him on the back of the calf.

I didnï¿½t see that from where I was but he is struggling a bit.

Wellsy got done just before the end by their centre-half on the far side.

Mike Greenï¿½s come off with a dead leg so we have picked up 4 or 5 injuries today but hopefully none of them are long term.ï¿½

Anybody likely to miss next weekend?

T. R.: ï¿½I donï¿½t know.

It is too early to say Si.

I will have a chat with the physio today and we will have a clearer indication tomorrow.

That is the first time we have picked up any knocks really and it has happened on the back of a bad performance.

That is no excuse but players tend to get more knocks when you are losing than they do when you are winning.

Greenerï¿½s is genuine as they come; Gurneyï¿½s is genuine as they come so we will see.

Hopefully it is not too bad.

We will see what happens.ï¿½

457 - 15/09/2008

FA Cup Draw

Weston have once again drawn Chesham United in a cup competition.

Chesham United are currently 3rd in Division 1 Midlands of the BGB Southern League. They have 10 points from their opening 5 games.

It was back in 2003 when The Seagulls last played Chesham United but this time it was in the 3rd Qualifying round. Weston were held to a 1-1 draw at home, before beating Chesham 2-1 away thanks to goals from McKeever and Sobara.

Weston went on to beat Welling and then Farnborough before losing to Northampton Town in the 2nd round.

This season is again another home tie to be played on Saturday 27th September Kick off 3pm.

454 - 13/09/2008

Andrew Gurney on Eastleigh

Following Westonï¿½s Setanta Shield First Round tie at Eastleigh Assistant Manager Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the Club website.

If I could ask your thoughtï¿½s on tonightï¿½s game please?

A. G.: ï¿½First half we did brilliantly again and went 2-0 up.

Poor defending has cost us really.

We canï¿½t defend like that and expect to win the game.

2nd half we have got hold of the ball and have not passed it like we did in the first half and that has cost us really.ï¿½

We sat back a bit 2nd half?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

We got 2-0 up then sat back and let them take control of the game really.

You canï¿½t defend for 45 minutes like we did in the second half and expect to win.

It is frustrating that we conceded a late goal again so it is something that we have got to work on and make sure we nip it in the bud really.

We need to make sure that it doesnï¿½t happen again.ï¿½

We have been hit by a few late blows recently?

A. G.: ï¿½Yes.

We have gone in front and controlled the game at times.

In the first half and then like you say we have sat back a bit too deep, gave the ball away far too much and ultimately that is what has cost us the game.ï¿½

453 - 13/09/2008

Ben Wells in The Non-League Paper

This Sunday Ben Wells will be the featured player in the "Last Five Minutes Column" in The Non-League Paper. The article is a light hearted Question and Answer Session.

455 - 13/09/2008

Ryan Northmore on youth

Following Westonï¿½s F. A. youth up preliminary round tie with Cheltenham Saracens youth team manager Ryan Northmore took time out to speak to the club website.

If I could ask your thoughtï¿½s on tonightï¿½s game please?

R. N.: ï¿½I thought that it was a good first half performance.

The second half performance-It just shows that we have got some work to do.

I donï¿½t think that we are fit enough yet but the playerï¿½s certainly showed me enough signs for me to be encouraged by this season.

There is definitely things that we have got to work on but there was some really positive aspects to come out of the game.

I thought we attacked extremely well.

We created enough chances to win 2 or 3 games let alone 1 and obviously it was a sucker punch at the end but tired legs had a factor within that.

I think if we had of played the game further in to the season then, when the team startï¿½s believing in themselves a bit more we would look to come away with a result.ï¿½

Not ideal to have no league gameï¿½s prior to tonight then?

R. N.: ï¿½No.

Thatï¿½s right.

It is the first competitive fixture we have had and it is never easy to go in to such an important game having played just friendlies but that is the nature of the game and we have just got to deal with what we are dealt.ï¿½

Perhaps the difference between the two sideï¿½s being that Cheltenham had played two league games then?

R. N.: ï¿½I think that that had a bearing on it definitely.

They (Cheltenham) are in to the swing of thingï¿½s and we are still dusting off a few cob webs but that is no excuseï¿½s as they (Cheltenham) attacked extremely well in the 2nd Half and exposed some of our weaknesses and all credit to them, They have done extremely well.ï¿½

A healthy sized crowd tonight?

R. N.: ï¿½Yes.

Definitely.

The more we can get down the merrier.

We try and pass the ball and play attractive football so that it is easy on the eye.

The more people that we can get down here and involved the better for the lads particularly because the bigger the crowd they play in front of the easier it will be when they step in to the First Team.ï¿½

Only 62 less supporterï¿½s than the first team fixture with Maidenhead United?

R. N.: ï¿½No exactly.

That is nice.

Hopefully we can get a result next time and reward their faith in us.ï¿½

456 - 13/09/2008

FANZONE

In the second of an occasional series Press Officer Simon Stephens interviewï¿½s a Weston Supporter following a Seagulls fixture.

On Tuesday, following Westonï¿½s Setanta Shield game at Eastleigh Andy Chisolm took time out to share his thoughts with the website.

34 year old Andy is a Field Service Engineer who livesï¿½ in Didcot.

How long have you been following Weston?

A. C.: ï¿½Since the 1985-1986 season.ï¿½

And how did it come about that you became a Seagulls supporter?

A. C.: ï¿½I was introduced to the club by a school friend.ï¿½

Your thoughtï¿½s on this eveningï¿½s game?

A. C.: ï¿½Interesting.

We dominated the first half and there was only one side in it yet we did our usual thing of getting the lead and sitting back.

It was a bit end to end in extra-time but it is probably a blessing in disguise to go out of the competition.

At least it gave the 5 playerï¿½s that were on the bench on Saturday some valuable game time.ï¿½

Your aimï¿½s and expectationï¿½s for the season?

A. C.: ï¿½Pre-season it was to avoid relegation but with the signingï¿½s of playerï¿½s of the quality of Wells and Mullings I am hoping for a top 10 finish.

Hopefully we can continue what we have done so far and maybe nick a play-off spot if we are lucky.ï¿½

It is well documented that are crowd levels are disappointing and have not increased with the recent successes. Is there anything you think we can do to get more people through the gate?

A. C.: ï¿½To be honest with you I think the Press and Media coverage this season has been fantastic and a marked improvement on the previous campaign.

As far as putting the club name out there and free publicity I think we are doing pretty much as much as we can.

I have seen other ideaï¿½s suggested such as billboardï¿½s and full page advertsï¿½ in the local press but they involve a significant outlay of cash and I donï¿½t know if the club can justify that.

Perhaps the only thing I can think of is that the club should look to do discounted ticket priceï¿½s for local clubs and organisations and why not try a few Friday night fixtures as Tranmere did for a while as they were in the shadow of Liverpool and Everton.

Our crowdï¿½s on a mid-week fixture are higher than Saturdayï¿½s so perhaps Friday nightï¿½s is the way to go.ï¿½

451 - 10/09/2008

Striker Results 10/09/08

ï¿½1000 Winner Miss C Graham J3153

ï¿½500 Winner Mr Bowcock U4587

ï¿½250 Winner Ann Hardie N0873

ï¿½125 Winner P Smith SD5664

No Rollover Winner This Week Therefore Rolling Over To Next Week.

450 - 10/09/2008

Seagulls star in International call-up

Following on from his debut at Eastleigh in the Setanta Shield First Round on Tuesday evening, new signing Ludovic Quistin has been handed a further boost with an international call-up from Guadeloupe for the DIGICEL Cup in the Caribbean next month.

24 year old left sided defender/midfielder Ludovic who is the cousin of Arsenal Captain and French International William Gallas has one previous cap for his country when he represented them against Hati in a CONCAF Gold Cup Match.

452 - 10/09/2008

Joe Dymond-Williams Memorial Game. (Bishop Sutton FC)

A very sad occasion occurred recently when a member of the Bishop Sutton Youth team was murdered by two people in Bristol. A memorial game is being held in his memory.

Joe Dymond-Williams was 17 years old and played for the U18s, Reserves and a few games for the first team last season and he also played some games for Yate Town U18s as well last season. He started pre-season training with Bishop Sutton again this season but unfortunately was killed by two people whilst he was out in town one night back in July. You may have seen the local press and TV that covered this story. The two people concerned have been charged with his murder and are waiting trial.

Bishop Sutton are holding a memorial match on Sunday 21st September at 3pm against Yate Town FC, and are hoping to raise as much money as possible. Match entrance will be ï¿½2 on the gate and all the proceeds from the food, raffles, gate and auction planned will be going to Joe's charity which is 'Tiny Tickers' (Babies born with Heart Disease.

The Somerset Floodlight Youth Football League are going to support the event with a donation - yet to be decided.

449 - 09/09/2008

Interview with youth team captain Dayle Grubb

Following Weston-super-Mare F. C. youth teamï¿½s first competitive game of the season newly appointed captain Dayle Grubb took time out to speak to the club website.

Dayle was part of the first team squad at Lewes in the final game of last season making the breakthrough in his first year with Westonï¿½s Academy.

The Seagulls youngsters took on Cheltenham Saracens in the preliminary round of the F. A. youth cup and went down to a 3-2 defeat despite being the better side and bossing the majority of the game.

Congratulations on being handed the captaincy.If I could start off please by asking you how it came about?

D. G.: ï¿½I was one of the senior figures left in the team after last year.

Ryan thought I was one of the best leaderï¿½s out of the team and I feel privileged to be given the captaincy.ï¿½

Will you be looking to lead by example?

D. G.: ï¿½I thought we were unlucky to lose. We should of buried it after half-time.

Gutted really but that is what sometimes happens in football sometimes really.

We will just have to make sure that it is better for the next game.ï¿½

Perhaps a factor being that Cheltenham had already played 2 league games whilst it was our first competitive fixture?

D. G.: ï¿½We are always going to be a bit rusty in our first game.

I didnï¿½t know that they had played already but I guess that is one of the factorsï¿½s as we were a bit unfit at the end and unable to keep up with the pace that we started with really.ï¿½

448 - 08/09/2008

Interview with First Team Manager Tony Ricketts

Following Weston-super-Mare F. C.ï¿½s 1-1 draw at league leaders AFC Wimbledon First Team Manager Tony Ricketts spoke to the clubï¿½s Press Officer about that afternoonï¿½s game, Tuesday nightï¿½s fixture at Eastleigh , the clubï¿½s supporters and a potential community programme that he hopes to implement.

Your thought on todayï¿½s game?

T. R.: ï¿½A well earned and well deserved point gained today against a very good Wimbledon side who at times put us under a lot of pressure, some of it caused by us playing too deep as a team.

Very, very pleasing in coming to a good footballing side and gaining a valuable point.

Like I said to our playerï¿½s before the game, you have got too take this on board and use it as a positive and move further forward on and off the field.ï¿½

Eastleigh

T. R.: ï¿½Looking ahead to Tuesdayï¿½s match against Eastleigh , the people sat on the bench (Gurney, Havard, McKeever, Grubb & Willshire) will probably start.

It is not that I am going to take it lightly because I do not think i/we are in a situation where we can take things lightly.

I think we need to keep the momentum going, keep the positive attitude and keep moving forward.

I left McKeever & Grubby out today in terms to keep our shape and to stop Wimbledon playing and to a certain degree it worked but in another sense we lost a little bit of our flair going forward although we have had a couple of chances that we should of done better on.

The team will be changed.ï¿½

Any team news? Inï¿½s? Outï¿½s? Injuries?

T. R.: ï¿½No, No.

We are O. K..

Everybody has come through today again which is important to us with such a small squad.

We have got a couple of playerï¿½s in that we are having a look at but whether there is any money to sign anybody is a different story and the bottom line is that at this moment in time no, so if I want to bring somebody in then somebody will obviously leave.

But we will probably have a look at Ludovic Quistin on Tuesday at Eastleigh probably.

In some shape or form but that is about it at the moment.ï¿½

Supporters

T. R.: ï¿½I say to our supporters come and have a look.

Come and have a look and see how we are doing.

I know that it is the end of the holiday season and people going back to work and lack of money and that but we need more supporters.

It is as simple as that and I think this team deserves more supporters.ï¿½

I agree. From the Worcester game to the one against Maidenhead we ï¿½lostï¿½ 150 home supportersï¿½.

In between those games we had one fixture which was at Dorchester and we won.It is not as if we are playing badly or not getting good results.

You, yourself and the team must find it incredibly frustrating?

T. R.: ï¿½Definitely.

We need supporters.

We need to get out and about in the community more.

We need to offer kids go free and perhaps we need to be offering one parent full price, the other parent half price and kidï¿½s free.

447 - 05/09/2008

Rob Hughes Benefit Game

Bromley Football Club are hosting a benefit game on Sunday 21st September at Hayes Lane between a Legends XI and a Bromley XI. The game is to raise money for Rob Hughes, a Bromley player who was brutally attacked while on holiday in Crete.

Here is the ITV report on it: http://www.itvlocal.com/london/news/?player=LON_News_15&void;=230714

Rob was in Crete to celebrate his 28th birthday when he was brutally attacked and left in a coma and is still in hospital in Crete where he has made a dramatic recovery. He has had 4 operations and had part of his skull removed and was given 48 hours to live but has recovered and is now in a stable condition, however he is never going to return to how he was.

On the Sunday of the game, all the money raised will be going to Rob and his family so we are holding a footballing memorabilia auction in our bar after the game which will also try and help raise money for Rob.

446 - 05/09/2008

Middleton walks out whilst William Gallasï¿½s cousin joins on trial!

*Left back Bradley Middleton has sensationally walked out of the Woodspring Stadium this week a little over a fortnight after signing for the Seagulls.

The former Cardiff City defender and youth team Captain missed out to Cedric Abraham for a place on the bench in his first game after signing (against Worcester City) but was included in the Seagulls squad at Dorchester the following Monday.

After not being included in the squad to face Maidenhead the Taunton based youngster is understood to have quit the club only four games after he signed.

Manager Tony Ricketts commented ï¿½I said to Bradley, letï¿½s wait until Monday. Get Monday out of the way and see if you still feel the same way then but Bradley said to meï¿½ ï¿½I want to leave nowï¿½.

ï¿½I understand that players want to play but I can only pick 11.

Ironically Bradley would of started against Eastleigh but Ryan Paddock came in and did well.ï¿½

The departure of Middleton leaves Weston without a recognised natural left-back (with Ben Willshire expected to fill-in in the meanwhile) but Ricketts has wasted no time and brought in full international Ludovic Quistin on trial with a view to a signing if the left sided defender/midfielder impresses.

24 year old Quistin is the cousin of Arsenal Captain and French International William Gallas and certainly has an impressive pedigree.

He was capped by Guadaloupe after making his debut against Hati in a CONCAF Gold Cup match and has had trial spells at a number of professional league clubs including Wycombe Wanderers, Luton Town, Leyton Orient and Brentford.

Ludovic has had a somewhat nomadic time in English football since starting off at Billericay Town in 2004 and going on to enjoy short spells at Kings Lynn, Havant & Waterlooville, Tooting & Mitcham, Harlow Town and Dorchester Town.

He played a number of games in Conference National for Tamworth and is currently under contract at Unibond League Premier Division side Hednesford Town.

The Midlands club have indicated that they would beprepared to let Quistin go without a fee if his trial spell at Weston proves successful.

445 - 05/09/2008

SEGREGATION AT AFC WIMBLEDON

A number of Weston supporters were enquiring as to what crowd measures are in place for tomorrowï¿½s game.

After speaking to the AFC Wimbledon Secretary i can confirm that segregation WILL be in place for tomorrowï¿½s game.

444 - 03/09/2008

Striker Results 03/09/08

ï¿½1000 Winner S Smith X1230

ï¿½500 Winner I Shakeshaft

ï¿½250 Winner A Davies WG2439

ï¿½125 Winner Mrs G Hewitt P1824

Plus 69 paying members with the same numbers with a different prefix win ï¿½10.

No rollover this week therefore rolling over until next week.

443 - 02/09/2008

Player of the Month Awards get underway.

The Poll for Weston-super-Mare F. C.'s Player of the Month for August is now open and details of how you can cast your vote are listed below.

Voting slips can also be obtained from Press Officer Simon Stephens on First Team or Youth Team Match Days.

The poll closes at mid-day on Wednesday 17th September and the trophy will be presented at the home fixture vs. Chelmsford City on Saturday 20th September.

441 - 01/09/2008

After match interview with Westonï¿½s Darren Mullings

Following Westonï¿½s 2-2 Blue Square Conference South victory draw with Maidenhead United Darren Mullings took time out to speak to the Club website.

21 year old central midfielder Darren has been in impressive form for the Seagulls this season scoring at title favourites Havant and the winner at Dorchester and has featured in every minute of every game so far.

Your thought on todayï¿½s game please?

D. M.: ï¿½We got off to a good start with a nice early goal and we played some good football really, probably some of the best that we have played this season but we struggled to hold on to the lead. I think personally we sat back a bit too deep in the 2nd Half and let them come on to us and I was disappointed in the two goals that we conceded really.ï¿½

A bit of a killer blow to concede two minutes from time?

D. M.: ï¿½Yes. Definitely. Even though when we sat back a bit too much, I donï¿½t think they had too many chances really but they had the two chances, we gave them the second one and they punished us really.ï¿½

Maidenhead quite fortunate to salvage a draw?

D. M.: ï¿½On their overall performance maybe not. I think we did play the better football first half but they put us under pressure second half so maybe it was a fair result.ï¿½

11 points from our opening 6 games is not a bad start though?

D. M.: ï¿½No, not a bad start. I am sure that if you spoke to a few people before the start of the season and saw the fixtureï¿½s they would have been happy with the 11 points but I think deep down we could have had a few more. We chucked away a few points at home already this season, probably 4 but all we can do is get our heads back up and go again Monday.ï¿½

I find it absolutely incredible that todayï¿½s gate saw a decrease of 214 on our previous home game. When you consider that the only game in between was a cracking victory at Dorchester it would seem that our crowds go down instead of up when we are successful. What more do you think that we can do to get people through the gate?

D. M.: ï¿½I donï¿½t really know to be honest. We are playing the football at the moment. We are trying to get the results and that is all that we can do to try and get the crowd in. Hopefully they will look in the papers and see that we are doing alright and try to get down here and watch us.ï¿½

442 - 01/09/2008

After match interview with Weston Manager Tony Ricketts

Following Westonï¿½s 2-2 Blue Square Conference South draw with Maidenhead United First Team Manager Tony Ricketts took time out to speak to the Club website.

Your thought on todayï¿½s game please?

T. R.: ï¿½Obviously bitterly disappointed. We have given away 4 points in the last two home games and it is through our own naivety really. Marvin Brown should have squared the ball to Darren Mullings who would have tapped in to an empty net and we would have gone 3-0 up. They have gone down the other end, had a deflection, we havenï¿½t defended well, our recovery runs werenï¿½t right and the deflection made it 2-1 and we have sat back and let them come on to us.

Marc McGregor, what was he thinking in the last 3 minutes in that corner? Just clear your lines! That is disappointing. They are saying it was handball. Their lad handballed it but if we cleared our lines first and foremost, we are in possession of the football and there is no problem.

Ryan Northmore hasnï¿½t had a save to make. Not made one save in the whole game. Plenty of crosses that he has had to deal with. Just bitterly disappointed.

Once their lad has robbed Marc McGregor we still should have done better with it. They scored with a free header two yards inside our 6 yard box. Thatï¿½s last yearï¿½s form and not this yearï¿½s form so disappointed really.

You put four points on us and we would be sat 2nd or 3rd in the table. O. K. that might be over achieving but I would rather have the points in the bag than the points thrown away today.ï¿½

440 - 29/08/2008

Media update: BBC Radio Bristol & Non-League today

BBC Radio Bristol will be at the Woodspring Stadium tommorow covering the game against Maidenhead United for those of you that can not make it to the ground. After discussions it is hoped that Radio Bristol will visit the Woodspring Stadium more this season than they have in any previous season covering the Seagulls.

Non-League Today: In Sunday's Non-League Today it is understood that Weston-super-Mare V Maidenhead United will be the main feature game from Blue Square Conference South. It is also undestood that Weston will be the main feature in the "westcountry la la la" column in the same paper.

438 - 29/08/2008

Interview with Westonï¿½s youth team manager Ryan Northmore following the youth teamï¿½s second and final friendly

Following Weston-super-Mare youth teamï¿½s second and final pre-season friendly against their Team Bath counterparts, Manager Ryan Northmore took time out to speak to the Club website.

If I could ask your thoughts on the two friendlies and the pre-season campaign as a whole please?

R. N.: ï¿½Well I donï¿½t look in to the results of the pre-season games because it is all about trying things and giving the players the opportunity to express themselves with no pressure and get in to the swing of things.

It is going to take a little while for the players to understand the way that I want the team to play and for good habits to bed in but it is about rebuilding this year and as always it is about developing the players.

There are lots of positives to come out of the two games and I think that things are looking good for the future of Weston.ï¿½

436 - 27/08/2008

Striker Results 27/08/08

ï¿½1000 winner Mrs A Roberts N0660

ï¿½500 winner Bobby Collins M2660

ï¿½250 winner Mrs Jones WE1933

ï¿½125 winner C Mason L2273

Plus 62 paying members with the same numbers but a different prefix.

No rollover winner this week therefore rolling over until next week.

435 - 27/08/2008

After match interview with Westonï¿½s Marc McGregor

Following Westonï¿½s 2-1 Blue Square Conference South victory at Dorchester Town, the scorer of Westonï¿½s opening goal Marc McGregor took time out to speak to the Club website.

If I could start by asking your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game and the season so far please?

M. M.: ï¿½I think we started well. Iï¿½m a little bit surprised, I thought some of the teams would be a lot tougher than what we have played but I donï¿½t want to take anything away from what we have done. We have got a lot more youth in the side and some legs in the side which has helped but we have done really well. I think teams are going to underestimate us after the past two years which is going to be their down fall not ours. If we can stick together I think we are going to be alright. Today I think we deserved it really. They got on the ball a little bit but they didnï¿½t really hurt us. They were playing balls in from 30/40 yards, just sailing in to Ryan and I thought we were the better side going forward. Long may it continue really?ï¿½

10 points from the first 5 games of the season. We would have taken that at the start of the season?

M. M.: ï¿½Out of the sides that everyone is tipping to go down and by no means do we think we are going to go down, It is everyone else jumping on the band wagon over what we have done over the last two yearï¿½s which we are not happy about and we are quite happy just sitting in the Dressing Room and letting everybody underestimate us. Yes we have had a hard start. We had Havant, away at Hampton and Richmond and two home games out of five and picked up 10 points which we canï¿½t ask for anything more really. Against Worcester we were by far the better side and if we had won 5-1, I donï¿½t think anybody could have argued. There are a few lads that he has brought in who complement the side well and it is pleasing to see.ï¿½

The only pressure that we will have this season then is what we choose to put on ourselves?

M. M.: ï¿½Yes. Let everyone write us off. We donï¿½t mind that. Ricko and Gurns are quite happy letting people do that. He has brought people in like Marv, who has got a bit of experience and Ryan Havard. Ryan has done superb. I think he has been fantastic and worked his socks off. You could almost put him in a wide role and let him run up and down and work his socks off if he didnï¿½t play up top and it is pleasing to see somebody locally really, come in and do that. I think the likes of Grubby need to get the bit between their teeth really because he is one who could probably go on and do a bit more in league football and that is down to himself if he wants to do that because that is the only person that is going to stop him, himself. Obviously you have got Wellsy (Ben Wells) and Daz (Darren Mullings) and I think they have done well. Darren has played really well so it is pleasing to see the new lads come in and do well really.ï¿½

You were Man of the Match on Saturday and scored a goal today. You must be delighted with your personal form?

M. M.: ï¿½I am. The only thing is, I just need to keep fit and then keep games and get more and more match fitness. I felt a bit better today. When we played the first game of the season, I couldnï¿½t of played the second one at Havant. It just wouldnï¿½t of been able to be done, my legï¿½s wouldnï¿½t of taken it, so today it was nice and I felt good, even coming up to the second half. Obviously they kept the ball quite well so we had to run our socks off up there. Marv came off, then I came off and I feel a little bit better for it so long may it continue that my fitness gets better.ï¿½

We have had a stunning start to the season and one wonders what it will take to get the supporters coming back in their numbers. If you were speaking directly to the supporters, what would you say?

M. M.: ï¿½I think you know as well as anyone I have been in the club long enough now to know who turnï¿½s up and who doesnï¿½t turn up. I donï¿½t need to mention names but if we had another 100 or 150 like them I think we would be the best supported club in the league. That is not on numbers. That is on support and how good the support is and the quality of it.ï¿½

We have the most tolerant supporters that I have come across?

M. M.: ï¿½Yes. From where the club came from when I knew it, it has come a long way and maybe peopleï¿½s attitude has to change which they do because coming from a higher level to Weston people see that yes it has got to change and everyone has to change around with it. I have always liked the club. That is why I have come back here and I have no interest in going elsewhere. I enjoy it and I am sure the other ladï¿½s enjoy it. They havenï¿½t said anything to me but I bet they have never played in front of people like it. We havenï¿½t got the biggest crowd in the world but if we had a few more numbers, even if it was half of what other people get and that is the truth because if we go out there and lose 5-0, there is still people stood behind the goal clapping us and the respect that they give to us, the only thing that we can do is mirror that back to them because you wouldnï¿½t get that at a lot of places. There is a lot of fickle fans about. A lot of us are football fans anyway but we respect that especially from where we are on the pitch and it is good to see.ï¿½

433 - 26/08/2008

After match interview with Westonï¿½s Mark McKeever

After a sending off at the end of last season saw him miss the Seagulls opening 3 games of the current campaign, popular left winger Mark McKeever returned to the Weston side for Saturdayï¿½s fixture with Worcester City . Following the game he took time out to speak to the clubï¿½s Website.

If I could start by asking if you were surprised at all to go straight in to the starting line-up?

M. M.: ï¿½After a bad result last week (at Hampton & Richmond) there is always that hope that you will go straight back in with the Manager looking to freshen things up, so yes I was hopeful that I would be starting today.ï¿½

Your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game?

M. M.: ï¿½To be honest with you I think we had the majority of the play even before they went down to 10 men. It is always hard playing against 10 men but at the end of the day we had so many clear cut chances. I mean I should have had four myself and itï¿½s criminal to waste chances like that and I hold my hands up. Iï¿½ve missed four sitters today. On another day you score 4 but if we had of taken just one of those chances it is 3 pointï¿½s in the bag.ï¿½

I think anybody would have taken 7 points from our first 12 if offered it at the start of the season though?

M.M.: ï¿½I think we would of taken that before the start of the season but I mean it wasnï¿½t as if today was a bad performance. It was a good performance. People were saying maybe we didnï¿½t break the 10 men down well enough but I thought we had the chances. It was just that killer instinct, the finishing. I think as long as you are playing well and making the chances the goals will come eventually although I think it was a positive day.ï¿½

We will look on it as two points dropped then?

M.M.: ï¿½There is always that possibility but I think as long as we keep playing like that, the same attitude, move the ball, keep creating the chances, the goals will come and to be honest with you I donï¿½t expect us to be looking over our shoulderï¿½s too much this year if we keep that attitude right.ï¿½

That was a much better crowd today. People look like they are coming back and our early results have certainly made people sit up and take notice?

M. M.:ï¿½Well from an atmosphere point of view, you could definitely tell the difference today. Iï¿½m not sure how many extra there was there but it did make a difference. I think the atmosphere adds to the occasion.ï¿½

434 - 26/08/2008

After match interview with Westonï¿½s Assistant Manager and leading goalscorer Andrew Gurney 1

Following Westonï¿½s 2-1 Blue Square Conference South victory at Dorchester Town the clubï¿½s Assistant Manager and leading goalscorer Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the Club website.

If I could start by asking your thoughtï¿½s on todayï¿½s game please?

A. G.: ï¿½First half we played really well up till the goal I thought. Then when we got the goal we sat back a little bit too much really and let them back in to the game which was a bit disappointing. The lads have worked their socks off today and got what they deserved really. We didnï¿½t have a lot of possession 2nd Half but they dug in and Saturday they had all the chances and couldnï¿½t score and today we managed to nick it. Brilliant. Great Result.ï¿½

We showed a good attitude and application?

A. G.: ï¿½They worked their socks off, you know everyone and sometimes when you do that you get a win just through shear hard work and thatï¿½s what we have done today. They ( Dorchester ) will probably feel a little bit hard done by but it is a great 3 points.ï¿½

I think anybody would have taken 10 points from our first 5 games?

A. G.: ï¿½Brilliant, Obviously we are delighted with the start but there is a long long way to go and we have got to keep working hard and if we do then like we said, we want to prove people wrong. People have got us down as favourites to be relegated and that is something that we want to use to our advantage and prove to people that we are not going to be getting relegated and we shouldnï¿½t be tagged with that but people can carry on and tag us with that and we will try and prove them wrong.ï¿½

You have had a long and illustrious career in the game and if I could finish by asking you if you have ever been top scorer at any of your previous clubs?

A. G.: ï¿½I havenï¿½t, no but I donï¿½t expect it will last much longer!ï¿½

432 - 25/08/2008

Purnell handed opportunity by Harrison walkout

Highly rated teenage goalkeeper Luke Purnell has been handed the opportunity to establish himself as a regular member of the first team squad at Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare after fellow stopper Ryan Harrison walked out of the Woodspring Stadium after only one game.

Purnell who was selected for the English Colleges side followed by a call up to the British Colleges side put pen to paper on a Conference South registration form following Westonï¿½s home fixture with Worcester City and for the immediate future at least, is expected to be under study to his mentor and regular first choice Ryan Northmore.

In the summer Weston Manager Tony Ricketts made public his wish to have competition in all positionï¿½s including the goalkeeping spot and subsequently brought in Harrison who was an ever present for Llanelli as they won the League of Wales last season. Both Harrison and Northmore were given equal game time in pre-season allowing Ricketts to make a qualified judgement and the Manager plumped for last seasonï¿½s Supporters player of the year Northmore to don the number 1 shirt for the seasonï¿½s opener against Bishops Stortford. After the game Harrison expressed a desire to leave but Ricketts hoped to get the 23 year old to stay until a change in circumstances this week forced the Managers hand with the decision making process.

Explaining, Ricketts commented ï¿½I am bitterly disappointed that I have had to let Ryan go but the financial restrictions of the club mean that I can now not have two senior goalkeepers. That is what it boils down to.ï¿½

ï¿½Ryan Northmore is on contract until the end of the season and I was hoping that I would have enough money to run with both of them but I havenï¿½t.ï¿½

ï¿½I had to make a decision and it is my decision that Ryan has left and I am disappointed.ï¿½

ï¿½I wish him every success and I wish him well for the season.ï¿½ ï¿½You try not to shut off avenues in football as it is a small world and who knows, one day you might see Ryan Harrison playing for Weston again.ï¿½

430 - 20/08/2008

STRIKER RESULTS 20/08/08

ï¿½1000 WINNING NAME AND NUMBER MRS BUCKLEY K2432

ï¿½500 WINNING NAME AND NUMBER N GRIEVES X1321

ï¿½250 WINNING NAME AND NUMBER MRS RICHENS WD5679

ï¿½125 WINNING NAME AND NUMBER C MCHUGH SB1446

NO ROLLOVER WINNER THIS WEEK THEREFORE ROLLING OVER UNTIL NEXT WEEK.

429 - 20/08/2008

FANZONE - Stuart Lock

In the first of an occasional series Press Officer Simon Stephens interviewï¿½s a Weston Supporter following a Seagulls fixture.

First up on Saturday, following Westonï¿½s game at Hampton & Richmond was Stuart Lock. 31 year old Stuart currently lives in Walthamstow and is an assistant head teacher at a secondary school in London .

If I could start off Stuart by asking you how long you have supported the Seagulls and how your ï¿½love of Westonï¿½ came about?

S. L.: ï¿½I used to go and visit my Granddad in Weston. He used to take me to the old stadium. My first game was against Dawlish and we won 2-0. I think Paul Elson scored both.

When I moved to Weston at 14 I started following them every season, when you could join the Supporters Club for 60p and get in free all season as a junior!ï¿½

Your thoughts on todayï¿½s game please?

S. L.: ï¿½I thought today was thoroughly depressing but if you offered me 6 points from the first three games, given how they looked on paper, I would of snapped your hand off. I thought today we where poor. Second best all over the park. It seemed like they ( Hampton ) wanted it more and they had more quality. It was in stark contrast to Monday.ï¿½

And finally, your expectationï¿½s for the season?

S. L.: ï¿½To stay up!ï¿½

431 - 20/08/2008

Middleton signing final piece in jigsaw for Ricketts!

Tony Ricketts, Manager of Blue Square South side Weston-super-Mare has managed to fill the final position he was publicly targeting with the signing coup of Bradley Middleton from Cardiff City .

19 year old Middleton worked his way up through the age groups at Ninian Park prior to captaining the Youth side. He made a number of first team appearances for the Bluebirds which came in the FAW Cup, including helping Cardiff reach the semi-final in the 2006-2007 season before losing to eventual winners TNS.

The Taunton based left back was loaned to Dorchester Town last season for ï¿½work experienceï¿½ and made a big impression at the Avenue Stadium in his 8 games with the clubï¿½

Bradley joined Weston in the summer following his surprise release from Ninian Park and featured in the pre-season friendlies at Paulton Rovers and Caldicot Town . He put pen to paper with the Seagulls following training on Tuesday evening.

The signing completes the search for a naturally left sided defender that saw Jamie Laird feature for Weston in pre-season before being offered a ï¿½once in a lifetime opportunityï¿½ to play and coach professionally in Norway whilst Martin Slocombe was also a target following his release from Bristol City but opted on a move to join Bath City.

428 - 19/08/2008

After match interview with First Team Manager Tony Ricketts

First Team Manager Tony Ricketts took time out to speak to the club website following Weston-super-Mareï¿½s Blue Square Conference South game at Hampton and Richmond .

Your thought on todayï¿½s game?

T. R.: ï¿½Just bitterly disapppointed. We defended poorly. The same as last year. We came here and gifted them sort of three goals in 20 minutes last year and we have done exactly the same today, so I am bitterly disappointed. The goals were poor. They didnï¿½t create too much but I am not going to be too hard on the lads because theyï¿½ve given us two good performances but i am bitterly disappointed today.ï¿½

I think anyone would have settled for 6 points from the first 3 games though, especially in view of the opponents?

T. R.: ï¿½Yes, they would but the emotion of the game, weï¿½ve conceded from a corner, we have conceded from a set play, the two lads from midfield have scored two goals a piece and generally our ball retention was poor today.I donï¿½t want to criticize anybody but we should have had the same work ethic today as we did at Havant & Waterlooville on Monday. We will be O. K. as long as we have got that work ethic but that today was too reminisant of last season to be honest with you and the work ethic throughout the whole team was different to what it was on Monday and different from what it was against Bishopï¿½s Stortford and that is something that I have got to address and the playerï¿½s know.

We have had a decent conversation about it and you know it is frustrating for me because we have looked reasonably solid in other games and today we gifted them four goals.

They had a bit of luck with the first one as a deflection hit the man closing down and it went in the opposite corner but the other 3 where not good.ï¿½

427 - 19/08/2008

Weymouth Youth 5 v 0 Weston Youth

Weston youth team stepped up their preperation's for the new season last night when they travelled to the Wessex Stadium to play their Weymouth counterparts in their opening pre-season friendly.

A Weston side containing mainly first year students put up a spirited fight in a 5-0 defeat.

426 - 18/08/2008

Striker results 13/08/08

ï¿½1000 WINNING NUMBER G2136 ï¿½500 WINNING NUMBER J2157 ï¿½250 WINNNG NUMBER G2313 ï¿½125 WINNING NUMBER WA4334 NO ROLLOVER WINNER THIS WEEK THEREFORE ROLLING OVER UNTIL NEXT WEEK.

425 - 14/08/2008

After match interview with Weston Captain Charlie Comyn-Platt

Following Westonï¿½s impressive 3-2 victory at bookieï¿½s title favourites Havant & Waterlooville, Weston Captain Charlie Comyn-Platt took time out to speak to the club website.

If I could start by asking you for your thoughts and opinions on todayï¿½s game please?

C. C-P.: ï¿½I thought we where brilliant. Our attitude was really, really good. The team spirit was the best I have seen it at the club I think. We went 3-0 up and because there is a bit of a slope here we did sit back quite a bit. We started to get tired because we did a load of doggies, closing down. We worked so hard and we did get a bit tired. We conceded a couple of goals but that didnï¿½t faze us and we defended right to the death. We put our bodies on the line. Northy pulled off some great saves, especially in the first half that really kept us in the game.

A performance that was full of passion and commitment for 90 minutes?

C. C-P: ï¿½Full of passion. Everybody behind each other. We where fearless tonight. These are the bookies title favourites and to come here and to show that attitude was excellent. We stuck together and got stuck in and where fearless. It was really good. It was good to be playing with the lads today.ï¿½

As was said to be the case on Saturday, perhaps another result which will no doubt surprise people outside of the club?

C. C-P: ï¿½It might, yeah. I donï¿½t think we are shocked by it as we have had a very good pre-season and we have looked very good on Saturday and then again today. We where going in to the game very confident, so yeah it might surprise a few people.ï¿½

Do Havant look like a potential title winning side to you?

C. C-P.: ï¿½They where strong in all areaï¿½s. Strong all over the park. The defence and midfield was good and their movement up front was very good. I think we coped with it very well but I think they will be up there and there or thereabouts this season.ï¿½

Following two great wins it would be nice if we could get a bit more support. A poor crowd on Saturday and not many travelling tonight. There is a good product on show and perhaps it is about time that people started getting behind us?

C. C-P.: ï¿½Yes. I think the weather didnï¿½t help on Saturday. Them coming from Bishopï¿½s Stortford, they didnï¿½t bring many. I think when people start noticing our results they will come down. I mean, even you and all the other lads that came down today, they really appreciate that and it was really good at the end. We could hear you cheering us on when we scored and it was brilliant.ï¿½

424 - 13/08/2008

After match interview with Weston striker Ryan Havard

Following Westonï¿½s impressive 3-2 victory at bookieï¿½s title favourites Havant & Waterlooville, Weston striker Ryan Havard took time out to speak to the club website.

Where you surprised at all to be in the starting line-up?

R. H.: ï¿½Yes I was to start with but delighted really to get in the starting line-up and hopefully I can just stay there.ï¿½

Where you happy with your own performance?

R. H.: ï¿½Yes.I was quite happy with it. I am always going to give 110% for Weston. I grabbed a goal as well in the first half so a good performance really.ï¿½

A good team spirit as well?

R. H.: ï¿½Fantastic team spirit. Everybody pulled in together. Everyone worked for each other tonight. It was fantastic.ï¿½

How does it feel to be back playing for your home town club?

R. H.: ï¿½I just go out there to play football and give 110%. Playing for my home town club I give it a bit more as well.ï¿½

422 - 12/08/2008

Major sponsorship boost for Weston!

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare F. C. have tied up a major sponsorship deal with Protech Suzuki that will see a significant 4 figure sum invested in the club for the forthcoming season.

Protech, a family run business who are based on Winterstoke Road in Weston are the local Suzuki dealers for the Somerset and South Bristol area.

The company aim to provide the highest level of customer care or after care for your Suzuki car.

Their fully trained staff are on hand to provide a full range of sales, service, parts and accessories.

The business which is open for 7 days a week for car sales and six days a week for service and parts can be contacted on (01934)626407

Protech will be the name emblazoned across the Seagulls home jerseyï¿½s for the duration of the 2008-2009 Season.

423 - 12/08/2008

Abraham arrival bolsters Seagulls defences!

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare F. C. have bolstered their defensive options with the signing of centre-back Cedric Abraham.

French born Abrahim represented Bordeaux , Bastia and Toulouse in his homeland prior to coming to England .

Chesham United where Cedricï¿½s first club in the U. K. and on leaving the Meadow he went on to join Swindon Town and Swindon Supermarine and had a trial spell at Boston United.

26 year old Cedric who is a powerful imposing centre-back, had been on trial at Halesowen Town during pre-season prior to signing for Weston following their opening Blue Square South fixture of the season last Saturday against Bishops Stortford.

The Frenchman netted on his Weston debut when after replacing Charlie Comyn-Platt towards the end of the First-Half at Paulton in pre-season he connected with Ben Wellsï¿½ free-kick on 44 minutes to bring the Seagulls level.

His signing was rushed through in time for him to go straight in to the Weston 11 on Monday evening as the defeated title favourites Havant & Waterlooville 3-2 at Westleigh Park in their second Blue Square Conference South fixture of the season.

420 - 11/08/2008

STRIKER RESULTS 06/08/08

ï¿½1000 WINNING NUMBER Y1319 PAUL EGAN

ï¿½500 WINNING NUMBER C4573 J WILLIAMS

ï¿½250 WINNING NUMBER U3512 DAVID GREENWOOD

ï¿½125 WINNING NUMBER SC5663 C.SMITH

NO ROLLOVER THIS WEEK THEREFORE ROLLING OVER UNTIL NEXT WEEK

421 - 11/08/2008

After match interview with Westonï¿½s Number 1 Ryan Northmore

Goalkeeper and last seasonï¿½s ï¿½Supporters player of the Yearï¿½, Ryan Northmore took time out to speak to the club website following Weston-super-Mareï¿½s opening fixture of the 200-2009 Blue Square Conference South season when they hosted Bishopï¿½s Stortford.

If I could start by asking you for your thoughts and opinions on todayï¿½s game please?

R. N.: ï¿½I thought that it was an exciting game.

Lots of positives to come out of the performance.

Obviously disappointed to concede a penalty and to not come away with a clean sheet but that is how football goes.

The positives for me where that Marvin got on the scoresheet. He is off the mark and up and running.

Mark Armstrong came on at left back and did really, really well.

Ben Willshire started the game when it looked like he was going to be out till the start of October time, so that was another positive.

Itï¿½s good to see Ryan Havard come on and make a good performance again.

He works hard and you can see that he has got a real desire to do well for Weston and that is a real positive thing to come out of today.ï¿½

In light of the arrival of Ryan Harrison and the increased competition in the goalkeeperï¿½s position, was it a surprise for you at all to be starting todayï¿½s game?

R. N.: ï¿½Itï¿½s the Managerï¿½s job to have competition for places and that goes right across the board from 1 to 11.

He has brought Ryan ( Harrison ) in who is a competent young goalkeeper and to keep me on my toes.

You could say based on today that it is working.ï¿½

Where you happy with your own performance today?

R. N.: ï¿½Yes.

Very happy with my own performance.

It is the first time that we have used that ball (new conference league match ball) and it is a lot different from last season in that it moves differently and you have got to use an almost different technique to strike it but yes I am pleased with my performance.ï¿½

A result from the outside world looking in that might surprise a few people?

R. N.: ï¿½Well I havenï¿½t checked myself yet but some of the lads in the Changing Room are saying that we where the only team to win at home in the Conference South today.

In the huddle before the game, Andy Gurney said ï¿½this is our patch; nobody comes here and takes anything from usï¿½.

And thatï¿½s it now.

We have set our stall out, we have set our standard and it is up to us to maintain that standard for the entire season.

Not just till October, November time but the entire season.ï¿½

419 - 10/08/2008

After match interview with Assistant Manager Andrew Gurney

Assistant Manager and scorer of the games winning goal, Andrew Gurney took time out to speak to the club website following Weston-super-Mareï¿½s opening fixture of the 2008-2009 Blue Square Conference South season when they hosted Bishopï¿½s Stortford.

Your thought on todayï¿½s game?

A. G.: ï¿½I thought we deserved to win in the end really.

Theyï¿½ve had a couple of little chances, hit the post first-half but in general you know we where really pleased.

Pleased with the way the lads played and how they worked hard and we got the result we deserved in the end I think.ï¿½

Another special set-piece from yourself to win it?

A. G.: ï¿½I think it was going to take something like that in the end for either team to win it.

Luckily we got it and like I say, thoroughly deserved it I think in the end.ï¿½

No less than we deserved?

A. G.: ï¿½No.

The lads have been brilliant today, throwing their bodies in front of things at the end there and as I say, worked really hard and it has paid off for us today.

It was nice to start with a win obviously.ï¿½

A result that will no doubt surprise everybody outside of the club?

A. G.: ï¿½We are not really interested in what people outside of the club think and they can say what they want and have us as favourites to go down if they want.

All we can do is work hard and try and prove them wrong which we want to make sure we do.ï¿½

418 - 09/08/2008

Eve of season interview with First Team Manager Tony Ricketts:

First Team Manager Tony Ricketts took time out from his preparations for the Bishopï¿½s Stortford game to speak to the club website on the eve of the new season.

If I can start off by asking you your thoughts on Monday nightï¿½s game (Westonï¿½s final pre-season friendly at Caldicot)?

ï¿½We where poor first half. Definitely, we where poor. The last two seasonsï¿½ the club has conceded 80 goals so that is a key area that we need to work on.We had 3 players sat on the bench that would start in our best back four. Mike Green, Charlie Comyn-Platt and Ben Willshire. Hopefully we will have two of them back for Saturday. So it is something we need to work on. We need a centre-half and we need a left-back, natural left back. Where working on things and we will see what happens.ï¿½

I understand Ryan Harrison has signed?

ï¿½We have been waiting for international clearance with Ryan Harrison. I said I would bring two keepers in to the club and we need the competition for places. With the budget being so tight it is difficult to run with two keepers but I think it is something that we need to do. Obviously we will see who comes out on top and we will go from there really.ï¿½

Have you got your first choice x1 in mind for Saturday?

ï¿½Well if everybody is fit but it is impossible to do. On top of those 3 defenders that I just mentioned we had Ashan Holgate pulled out today with a tight back and Marc McGregor only played 30 minutes at Paulton on Friday so it is just getting the right balance.ï¿½

A difficult start to the season?

ï¿½Yes it is but you have got to play them all havenï¿½t you? You have got to play every side in the league twice. I am under no illusions. If we keep everybody fit we will surprise a few people. I have said that all along but whether we are strong enough in terms of numbers remains to be seen. Not being disrespectful to the young lads but we need to get them out playing menï¿½s football at a lower level to adapt to that and then hopefully when we need them, they can come back in. Being sat on the bench at Conference South level at this moment in time will not be good for them.

Running a few names by you if I may? ï¿½.

ï¿½. Ryan Havard?

ï¿½We have just had a little chat with him tonight and he is a local lad, wants to learn and wants to be given a chance. Heï¿½s been bright, gives it 100% and he is part of our squad of 16 at this present moment in time. I think he will surprise a few people. I like players with effort and commitment and he has got that in abundance.ï¿½

ï¿½. Darren Mullings?

ï¿½We have signed Darren. Non contract at this present moment in time. The Chairman is not back until August 19th so we will see what happens with him. I want to get him on a contract because of his versatility. He can play up front, he can play in midfield. That is his best positionï¿½s but he can also play at the back if needs be although I donï¿½t think that is his best position. So Darren is on board on non-contract and will obviously be in the squad on Saturday.ï¿½

ï¿½. Bradley Middleton?

ï¿½We are having a look at Bradley. Bradley has got the opportunity to go and train with Yeovil so he will go and train with Yeovil and we will go from there.ï¿½

ï¿½. Ryan Paddock?

ï¿½Ryan Paddock is another who will train with us.Both Ryan and Bradley. It is whether they can cope with the physicality of the Conference South at centre-half. Probably my two centre halfï¿½s on Saturday will be Andy Gurney and Charlie Comyn-Platt.ï¿½

Taking in to consideration injuries, are you able to tell me what you envisage your starting line-up being on Saturday?

ï¿½It will depend on whose fit. At the moment Mike Green isnï¿½t available as he is going to a wedding so he is definitely out so we will have somebody playing out of position on Saturday probably filling in one of the full back positions and we will probably go with young Mark Armstrong so we will see with that one.ï¿½

I understand Ben Willshire is a doubt?

ï¿½Yes he is a doubt. He has got a knee ligament problem and we are hoping and praying that he pulls through.ï¿½

ï¿½. and Charlie?

ï¿½I think Charlie will be O. K. and will probably start at centre-half with Andy Gurney.We will try and nail this down when we train. We tried Wednesday this week as it gives the lads two days off before Saturday.ï¿½

Finally, a message for the supporters? ï¿½. Perhaps to unite and get behind everybody?

ï¿½Iï¿½ve been to the Conference pre-season meeting today. We need more support. We need positive support. Weï¿½ve given the supporters nothing to shout about for two seasonï¿½s really. No doubtï¿½s it will be tough again this season but like I said earlier, we have to keep everybody fit, and then I think we can do O. K.We havenï¿½t got depth in the squad and I donï¿½t want to keep harping on about budget.The budget is what the budget is. When we lose out to players to clubï¿½s like Mangotsfield, Cirencester and Gloucester for players then there is an imbalance somewhere. People have got to understand that.ï¿½

Our supporters have to be realistic?

ï¿½You know me Simon, I donï¿½t read websites.ï¿½

I thought what Grubby said was brilliant and hit the nail on the head. Fairplay to him for coming out and having the courage to say it.Your thoughts on his comments?

ï¿½The fans Unofficial Forum and the clubs website you know, people are entitled to their opinion but it doesnï¿½t help. I have got no problems with being criticized. I think I failed last year. I donï¿½t want to keep repeating myself and I have got something to prove this season. This is the first time in my managerial or coaching career that I have failed last season so I have got a bit to prove. It would have been easy for me to walk away. If the Chairman feels that I am not up to the job then that is the Chairmanï¿½s job. Supporters are entitled to their own opinion but what they donï¿½t do; they donï¿½t say it to your face. They say it behind your back. They put it on a website. I donï¿½t read websites but I was told about it today and I am not pleased about it but we need support, the players need support, Weston-super-Mare needs support. Weston St. Johns have just gone under. I think that is tragic, tragic. We are a small club and we need to stick together. Like I said at the fans forum-Do I believe we are punching above our weight? No I donï¿½t, I donï¿½t but we need to raise more funds so we can compete, not just at this level but at the next level.ï¿½

417 - 08/08/2008

Weston-super-Mare F. C. by Simon Stephens

With just about everybody outside of the Woodspring Stadium predicting a bottom place finish for Weston-super-Mare F. C. in Blue Square Conference South this season the only pressure on Manager Tony Ricketts and his troops will be what they choose to put on themselves.

League sponsors Blue Square have the Seagulls priced 13/8 to go down and despite having his hands tied by what is acknowledged as the lowest budget in the division, due in no small part to the excesses of previous Manager Frank Gregan, Ricketts is far from despondent with his optimism being backed up by a number of quality summer signingï¿½s who have turned down more lucrative offers elsewhere to commit themselves to North Somersetï¿½s most senior club to give an indication as to the regard in which Ricketts and his Assistant Andrew Gurney are held in.

Former Bristol City protï¿½gï¿½ Marvin Brown once hailed by Cityï¿½s then Academy Director David Burnside as ï¿½the next 10 Million Pound Playerï¿½ is being classed as the clubï¿½s ï¿½headline summer signingï¿½ and it is not difficult to see why with the prolific striker holding the best goals per game ratio in the whole of the Blue Square Premier last season whilst with Salisbury City.

Brown is understood to have turned down more lucrative offers from big spending title favourites Havant & Waterlooville & fellow Hampshire side Eastleigh along with Worcester City, Newport County and Bath City.

Described by Ricketts as the ï¿½20 goal a season striker that I have been looking forï¿½ Brownï¿½s firepower could be the difference between a relegation battle, mid-table security or an outside shot at the play-offï¿½s.

Another major boost to the club is the capture of powerful midfielder Darren Mullings, a player who has already proved valuable to the Seagulls cause with his adaptability in pre-season.

6ft 1 Mullings spent the 2007-2008 Season at Torquay United following his departure from Bristol Rovers where he made 4 first team appearances as well as being a regular for England Colleges at Under 19 level and also representing England Schoolboys at Under 18 level.

Mullings was deployed as a striker on his debut for the Seagulls, scoring in a 1-1 draw and proved to be equally adept in the centre-back position in Westonï¿½s next friendly against Championship side Plymouth Argyle when he coped comfortably with all that a full strength Argyle had to throw at him.

Also joining is highly rated former Swindon Town central midfielder Ben Wells.

Wells made 45 appearances and scored 7 goals for Basingstoke Town last season but became frustrated at being deployed on the right of midfield and was only to happy to re-unite with former Swindon team mates, Ashan Holgate, Charlie Comyn-Platt and Andrew Gurney.

Wells has already shown his delivery and distribution to be excellent in Westonï¿½s pre-season campaign and will prove to be a valuable addition.

Ryan Harrison joins the club from Welsh League Champions Llanelli where he made 34 appearances last season and has shown his ability with confident displays so far but will face a stiff test to shift Ryan Northmore from the goalkeepers position with Northmoreï¿½s consistent quality over the past 3 seasons so often making him the clubs saviour and said to be worth 10-15 saved points a season for the Seagulls.

Westonï¿½s 5th and so far final signing to date has been one that has lifted and excited the Weston faithful.

Weston bred Ryan Havard is a popular face in the local community and is renown for his lung busting performances and his never say die attitude.

The talented striker came up through the Youth and Reserve ranks at Weston before embarking on fruitful goalscoring spells at Weston St. Johns, Taunton Town, Clevedon Town & Yate Town.

Last season he scored 24 goals in only 24 games for St. Johns and showed he hadnï¿½t lost his touch when netting with a stunning half volley from fully 40 yards in Westonï¿½s final friendly at Caldicot on Monday evening.

Westonï¿½s supporters will be critical to the club this season with them having more importance to the cause than they probably realise.

Ricketts has negotiated a deal with Chairman Paul Bliss that will see any funds from crowds in excess of 350 diverted directly in to the playing budget.

The crowds at Weston bucked a national trend last season with the Seagulls being the only side outside the professional ranks to see a dramatic increase through the gates with over 30% more spectators than the 2006-2007 season.

The figures were due in part to the clubs decision to switch their mid-week fixtures to a Monday evening when there is less competition for an audience and if the Weston hierarchy decide to go ahead with a proposed idea to switch some Saturday fixtures to a Friday evening it could well see a further increase which will benefit the club, Ricketts, the team and the supporters making it an all round ï¿½win winï¿½ situation.

416 - 08/08/2008

Quadruple signing boost for Seagulls on eve of season!

Blue Square Conference South side Weston-super-Mare F. C. have bolstered their squad with four quality signingï¿½s on the eve of the season.

Goalkeeper Ryan Harrison was the first of the four to put pen to paper when he signed for the Seagulls following their pre-season victory at Caldicot on Monday evening.

23 year old Harrison was an ï¿½ever presentï¿½ for League of Wales Champions Llanelli last season, conceding a miserly 35 goals from 34 games after signing from Forest Green Rovers.

The young goalkeeper will face a stiff task to shift Ryan Northmore from the number 1 spot with the former Torquay United man being one of Westonï¿½s most consistent performers over the past 3 seasons but his arrival gives Manager Tony Ricketts the competition he has been looking for in the goalkeeping spot.

Powerful central midfielder Darren Mullings could well prove to be a key signing for the Woodspring Stadium based club.

21 year old Mullings spent last season with Blue Square Premier side Torquay United following his release from Bristol Rovers where he made four first team appearances and scored for the Gulls on his debut against Histon.

He scored on his Weston debut whilst deployed as a striker against league two new boys Exeter City and was equally adept in Westonï¿½s following friendly when he played as a centre-back against a full strength Plymouth Argyle side and coped comfortably with all the Championship side had to throw at him.

With centre-back Craig Rand expected to be out of action until October, full back Michael Green unavailable and fellow full back Ben Willshire facing a late fitness test, defender Ryan Paddock could well go straight in to the Seagulls starting X1 for Saturdayï¿½s opening Blue Square South fixture with Bishops Stortford.

19 year old Ryan was released by Bristol Rovers in the summer following a year as a professional and impressed enough in Westonï¿½s friendlies against Gloucester and Caldicot to be offered terms by manager Tony Ricketts.

The fourth signing of the quartet is perhaps the one that has invigorated and encouraged the clubï¿½s supporters the most.

Weston bred Ryan Havard is a popular face in the local community and his return to the club has delighted the supporters who have been clamouring to see more local faces in the Seagulls line-up.

Known for his lung busting performances and never giving less than 100%, Havard spent his formative years in Westonï¿½s Youth and Reserve sides where he was a prolific goalscorer.

He made the Weston first team prior to his 20th birthday but found opportunities limited and spent a golden period at Weston St. Johns where he averaged a little over a goal a game before going on to join further fruitful spells with Southern League 1 side Taunton Town and Southern League Premier Division sides Clevedon Town and Yate Town.

First team goalkeeper Ryan Northmore who also doubles as the clubï¿½s Youth Team Manager has seen the well renowned coaching skills and professional standards that he embeds in to Westonï¿½s youngsters bear fruit with more youth players than ever before featuring in the first team squad.

As well as the four new signingï¿½s youth team graduates David Thorne, Samuel Clark, Samuel Johnson and Mark Armstrong all signed first team forms after training on Wednesday evening.

Armstrong in particular has been impressive in Westonï¿½s pre-season campaign, featuring regularly and it is thought that he might well start Saturdayï¿½s opener against Bishops Stortford with Green missing and Willshire rated as a fitness doubt.

The presence of four local boys in the ranks is a sight that will no doubt please the clubï¿½s supporters.

415 - 07/08/2008

NOTICE TO ALL SUPPORTERS

You may have noticed the advert on the back page of this weeks Weston Mercury. The advert is incorrect. The Admission Prices should not have appeared in the advert. When the ad was placed on Monday all the wording was agreed, the Mercury promised to send through a 'proof copy' as they normally do. This did not happen otherwise the mistake would have been spotted straightaway. The Mercury have admitted their mistake and have apologised in advance for any embarrassment this mistake will cause.

Even if they wanted to the Club could not charge the prices advertised as there is a minimum admission charge that applies throughout the Football Conference, and this charge is higher than the price that appears in the advert.

The Club would also like to apologise for this error and we have been assured by the Mercury that this kind of problem will not arise again.

414 - 06/08/2008

interview with Assistant Manager Andrew Gurney (Paulton Rovers V Weston-super-Mare

Assistant Manager Andrew Gurney spoke to the Website after Westonï¿½s penultimate pre-season friendly, against Paulton Rovers at The Athletic Ground, Winterfield Road, Paulton.

Your thought on tonightï¿½s game?

A. G.: ï¿½Very, very poor, especially the first half.

Then the second half we started quite brightly and we were having a go and created one or two bits.

Then Marvin, obviously Marvin should score really at 1 all and 9 times out of 10 he will score and he slashed it wide from 3 or 4 yards out which isnï¿½t Marvin at all.

If that goes in then maybe we go on and win the game 3-1 but we didnï¿½t. They hit a worldy goal and to be fair for the second goal you canï¿½t really do a lot about and then conceded a very poor third but overall it is not good enough and there is a lot of hard work that will be done in the next week or so because the last two and a half performances have definitely not been good enough.

A week tomorrow we start the season and a lot has got to improve in a week.

We will work as hard as we possibly can to make sure that it does.ï¿½

Your thought on the two new faces that where on show tonight?

A. G.: ï¿½The left-back (Bradley Middleton) played tonight obviously. Whether he comes again or not I donï¿½t know.

Cedric (Abraham), I thought Cedric did O. K..

He is a big strong boy, looks quick and overall looks like someone that you could work with, something that could maybe be a decent addition but will have to wait and see over the next week or so.ï¿½

I understand that we have a couple of playerï¿½s missing for the first game of the season?

A. G.: ï¿½Greener is missing for the first game of the season.

We have known that since the start of pre-season really and then obviously Ben (Willshire) injured his knee at Gloucester the other night which isnï¿½t great news obviously because that leaves us without two right-backï¿½s.

We will have to see, hopefully he might be alright by next weekend.ï¿½

413 - 06/08/2008

PAULTON ROVERS 3, WESTON-S-MARE 1

Simon Stephens reporting from the Athletic Ground, Winterfield Road

Weston fielded trialists Bradley Middleton (a left back) and centre-back Cedric Abraham (a former Swindon Supermarine centre-back) at The Athletic Ground as two late goals from a full strength Paulton Rovers saw the home side to a 3-1 victory.

Paulton had the better of the early exchanges and took the lead on 25 minutes when former Weston midfielder Jon French put in Ben Cleverley who laid the ball back for another former Seagull Robert Claridge to beat keeper Ryan Harrison.

Abraham replaced Charlie Comyn-Platt on the half hour mark after the Seagulls captain pulled up with a hamstring injury (Michael Green taking the Captain's armband) and a minute before the interval it was Abraham who got on the end of Ben Wells's free-kick from the right to draw the sides level.

Thankfully it is understood that Comyn-Platt's injury will not keep him out of the season's opener against Bishops Stortford.

Weston's uped the tempo in the second half and after Assistant Manager Andrew Gurney had blazed Ashan Holgate's pull back over the bar, Dean Grubb stung the hands of home keeper Kyle Phillips after a delightfull one two with Michael Green had split Paulton open.

Michael Green also went close for the visitors and Marvin Brown would of normally finished an opportunity from close in but as the game entered it's final 20 minutes, Paulton regained the accendancy.

Ryan Harrison did well to deny Dean Pendry from close range and then substitute Tom Jacobs hit the foot of a post as Paulton came back.

Brazilian trialist Zico put Paulton in front with a stunning 35-yard effort on 74 minutes fellow substitute Dan Flower sealed the win on 86 minutes when put through by Tom Jacobs.

Weston squad: Harrison, Green, Middleton, Palmer, Mullings, Comyn-Platt (Abraham 30), Wells (McKeever H/T), Gurney (Burt 71), McGregor (Brown 30), Holgate (Havard 83), Grubb. Sub (not used): Purnell.

412 - 05/08/2008

CALDICOT TOWN 2, WESTON-S-MARE 6

Simon Stephens reporting from Jubilee Way.

Weston's preperations for the new season clicked in to place just at the right time as a Seagulls line-up containing two triallists and two youth team graduates took a trip in to europe to round off their pre-season programme and recorded an emphatic win at Welsh League Division 1 side Caldicot.

Perhaps a usefull indication as to the value of the result was that Blue Square South rivals Newport County recorded a 4-1 victory at Jubilee Way 2 weeks previously whilst at full strength.

Caldicot started strongly and after Andy Gurney headed just over from Ben Wells' free kick, the home side took the lead when Daniel O' Sullivan put in Jason Thorne and altough Ryan Northmore made a great save from Thorne's effort, Mark Williams was on hand to lash home the loose ball.

A minute later, Gurney came close, his header coming back off the underside of the crossbar from Ben Wells's corner from the left and from another Wells' corner, Gurney headed back across goal for Marvin Brown to force a save from keeper James Smallcombe.

Weston equalised on 35 minutes when Ryan Havard turned on Sam Johnson's long clearance and beat Smallcombe with a stunning dipping half volley from fully 45 yards but a minute before the interval, Caldicot were back in the lead when Kevin Thompson's ball into the box saw O' Sullivan adjudged to have been impeded and Gareth Cullimore fired his penalty to the right of Northmore.

For the second half, Weston, who earlier had replaced Gurney with James Palmer, brought on Ryan Harrison for Northmore, Marc McGregor for McKeever and Michael Green for Sam Johnson and went on to dominate the second half.

McGregor saw his shot blocked and Havard saw his glancing header go just wide before Ryan Paddock's cross came back off the groin of Darren Mullings in to the path of Marvin Brown who finished neatly.

Brown added his second and Weston's third after Green powered down the right flank and pulled the home defence out of position.

Brown completed his hat-trick with Weston's fourth climaxing a strong run from Ryan Havard and after Mark Armstrong's strong run down the left had set-up Marc McGregor, McGregor freed Darren Mullings to score and Ben Wells capped a fine individual effort when he rounded off the scoring, meeting McGregor's cross with a fine header.

Weston squad: Northmore (Harrison H/T), Armstrong, Middleton (Holgate 79), Paddock, Johnson (Green H/T), Gurney (Palmer 23), Wells, Mullings, Havard, Brown (Johnson 83), McKeever (McGregor H/T).

411 - 03/08/2008

Interview with Dean Grubb

Following Weston-super-Mare F. C.ï¿½s pre-season friendly at Gloucester City Weston born winger Dean Grubb took time out to speak to the club website about the eveningï¿½s game, his thought process behind committing to a contract and the Weston supporters.

Your thought on tonightï¿½s game?

D. G.: ï¿½It was a good workout for the lads. It was always going to be a hard game up here. It was windy and I donï¿½t think the pitch is that great but it is good to get a look at what next season is going to be like with some of the players. I know it was 1-1 and we went a goal down but I think we controlled the game really. I donï¿½t think there was really many problems.ï¿½

How many of the side that started this eveningï¿½s game do you envisage starting the first game of the season?

D. G.: ï¿½Well really I think McKeever would be starting but he has got a ban for the first three games, so that is why he was on the bench. Well that is my thoughts on it anyway. I think a lot of them will be starting, I would say about, well considering how we do in the rest of the friendlies that will probably be the starting X1 for the season.ï¿½

I understand you have committed your immediate future to Weston and put pen to paper on a contract. Could you tell me your thought process behind how you came to that decision please?

D. G.: ï¿½Well after speaking with the Manager just really he has told me the playerï¿½s that have also signed and I was happy with signing because I think it looks bright for next year. The people I wanted here from last season have signed. He has brought in a few other good playersï¿½ like Marv, Greener and Macca have signed for two years and I think it looks positive to be fair. Everybody has been raring to go. After the disappointment that was last year I think next year looks promising.ï¿½

As a Weston born and bred player, do you see yourself as a role model for other local playerï¿½s and proof that they can make it at Weston? Something you are proud of? A pressure maybe?

D. G.: ï¿½Itï¿½s nice. I mean it would be nice if we got more fans down there who gave everyone a bit more of a chance. I mean, I read on the Website a lot, the Fans Forum and you just get people on there who just want to bad mouth the playerï¿½s and I think it is poor. I think everybody has bad times and good times but when we are going through a bad time it would be nice for people to get behind us instead of giving us grief all the time and that is my viewï¿½s on Weston. I think we have got too many negative people around and if they just want to come and bad mouth us then donï¿½t bother turning up to games.ï¿½

410 - 01/08/2008

After match interview with Charlie Comyn-Platt (Gloucester City V Weston-super-Mare)

Following Weston-super-Mare F. C.ï¿½s pre-season friendly at Gloucester City Captain Charlie Comyn-Platt took time out to discuss the eveningï¿½s game and the squadï¿½s two day excursion to an Army Barracks in South Wales.

Your thought on tonightï¿½s game?

C. C-P.: ï¿½I think we started well but then we conceded a sloppy goal. There was no one even around and I missed a header, the keeper shouted for it and itï¿½s going in off Palms. There wasnï¿½t even anyone in our 6 yard box from their team so it was a sloppy goal. They didnï¿½t really create much. I thought we where quite poor in the first half but 2nd half we looked much better and created quite a few chances. Kev Sawyer who was on loan to us last season, their keeper, he pulled off a great save in the top corner from Maccaï¿½s shot. Marc McGregor had a header from a corner, possibly should of hit the target. We did have quite a few chances but I think they worked hard really, they didnï¿½t create, they didnï¿½t do much so we should of beaten them but it is ifï¿½s and buttï¿½s really.ï¿½

What did you make of the experience at the Army Barracks?

C. C-P.: ï¿½Thursday and Friday was really good. I wasnï¿½t expecting much to be honest but it was really good, all the lads got on brilliantly, we all stuck together, it was team bonding and it was superb. We worked hard, we worked really hard and then we had a really good time with it. We played really hard as well.ï¿½

What did it consist of?

C. C-P: ï¿½Assault courses, fitness, running to beep times, carrying logs and running with big packs on your back getting chased by these idiot army people. We camped out on Thursday. We thought we where going to be in tents but they just gave us a sleeping bag. We had to cook our own food. We had ration packs from 2004 I think. We got bitten to death by mosquitoes.ï¿½

The break finished with a trip to Chepstow Races I understand?

C. C-P.: ï¿½Chepstow races was really good.ï¿½

Any luck?

C. C-P.: ï¿½No, not really a bit of luck. I did alright. I think it was Caribbean night so Ash did really well.ï¿½

409 - 31/07/2008

After match interview with Assistant Manager Andrew Gurney (Gloucester City V Weston-super-Mare

Assistant Manager Andrew Gurney spoke to the Website after Westonï¿½s 4th pre-season friendly, against Gloucester City at The Corrinium Stadium, Cirencester.

Your thought on tonightï¿½s game?

A. G.: ï¿½I thought we started brightly enough and then give away the sloppy goal from the corner and then it all went a bit pear shaped for 15-20 minutes really. We didnï¿½t take a grip of the game and let them get on top of us. Then we came in to it a little bit towards the end of the 2nd half. It was better in the 2nd half but probably still not quite there and probably still not quite good enough really.ï¿½ How many of the side that started this eveningï¿½s game do you envisage starting the first game of the season?

A. G.: ï¿½There is still one or two obviously that we are looking at and positions that hopefully we can add to but obviously the main of it was there but like I say, hopefully we can add a centre-back and a left-back with a little bit of luck. Obviously we are still looking for them.ï¿½

408 - 30/07/2008

Striker Results 30/07/08

ï¿½1000 winning number L4469

ï¿½500 winning number H5565

ï¿½250 winning number P4346

ï¿½125 winning number WE2262

No rollover winner this week therefore rolling over to next week.

407 - 30/07/2008

Striker Results 30/07/08

ï¿½1000 winning number L4469

ï¿½500 winning number H5565

ï¿½250 winning number P4346

ï¿½125 winning number WE2262

No rollover winner this week therefore rolling over to next week.

406 - 30/07/2008

Striker Results 30/07/08

ï¿½1000 winning number L4469

ï¿½500 winning number H5565

ï¿½250 winning number P4346

ï¿½125 winning number WE2262

No rollover winner this week therefore rolling over to next week.

405 - 30/07/2008

Gloucester City 1 v 1 Weston-super-Mare

Mark McKeever secured a draw for Weston with a late equaliser at Gloucester City.

Gloucester were on top in the early play and took the lead when Weston's James Palmer diverted a James Upcott corner past his own keeper.

Ryan Harrison was forced to make some brilliant saves to deny Upcott and Jack Pitcher.

In the second half Ex-Weston Loanee Kevin Sawyer pulled off a brilliant save to keep out a volley from McKeever.

But deep into added time, McKeever tapped in the ball after Sawyer had made the intial block.

Team: Ryan Harrison, Ben Willshire, Michael Green, Andrew Gurney, Charlie Comyn-Platt (Captain), Dean Grubb, James Palmer, Ashan Holgate, Marvin Brown, Darren Mullings & Ben Wells.

404 - 26/07/2008

Weston players join the Army

Following Bristol Rovers decision to pull out of the pre-season fixture scheduled for today Weston Manager Tony Ricketts utilised the time to take his troops to an army barracks in South Wales.

The exercise will no doubt build up morale and camaraderie between the squad and is understood to have involved an assault course, camping out over night on the Thursday and culminating with a visit to Chepstow Races last night.

403 - 24/07/2008

STRIKER RESULTS 23/07/2008

ï¿½1000 WINNING NUMBER WH2155 L SANTILLO

ï¿½500 WINNING NUMBER R5683 T MAYNARD

ï¿½250 WINNING NUMBER O6140 S SIMPSON

ï¿½125 WINNING NUMBER M2133 J WORTHINGTON

PLUS 61 PAYING MEMBERS WITH THE SAME NUMBERS BUT A DIFFERENT PREFIX WIN ï¿½10

ï¿½8500 ROLLOVER WINNING NUMBER WC1514 MR WALDON - CONGRATULATIONS!

402 - 24/07/2008

Robertson signs for Wellington

Former Weston-super-Mare Skipper Andy Robertson has signed for Toostation League first Division Champions Wellington according to Thursday's Western Daily Press. Robertson made 118 appearances for the seagulls in 2 spells and scored 2 goals, 1 against Newport County and the other against Sutton United. Robertson made his debut for the Seagulls in their first game at the new Woodspring Stadium against Hornchurch in 2004

401 - 22/07/2008

Interviews with James Palmer and Ben Willshire

Last week the former Bristol Rovers duo of Ben Willshire and James Palmer opted to commit their immediate future to the Seagulls when both put pen to paper on a two year contract.

Following training on Monday evening they spoke to the Club Website to discuss how they came to their respective decisions.

James Palmer

J. P.: ï¿½I had a bit of a frustrating year last year with injuries and getting released by Rovers obviously, and then I came here. I got injured, broke my finger, come back, got injured again with my knee but now I am fit and ready to go.

Rickko has given me a chance to prove myself here and I am going to have a good go at it. I have signed for two years now which is good because it secures your future. I am going to have a good go at this year.

I donï¿½t want to be sat on the bench like I was last year. I want to be playing every week if I can. Obviously, I just want to be in the team for the first game of the season.ï¿½

Ben Willshire

B. W.: ï¿½Tonyï¿½s choice is that he wants everybody on contract this year because he wants everybody committed to the club. I wanted to be committed to a club on my own personal level.

I donï¿½t like this one year signing on and then seeing what happens next year. I want to be committed to a club for a few years and I want to see it progressing.

So that is why I have signed for two years now.ï¿½

399 - 21/07/2008

Interview with Michael Green

Michael Green joined Weston-super-Mare from bitter rivals Clevedon Town midway through last season. The right-back made such an early impression that he won the player of the month award for January in his first full month with the club and went on to be awarded the accolade of Managerï¿½s player of the season.

Following Westonï¿½s pre-season fixture at Tiverton the Forest of Dean based defender spoke to the website to discuss that eveningï¿½s fixture and his decision to commit his immediate future to the Seagulls.

I understand you have committed your immediate future to the club?

M. G.: ï¿½Yes. I have signed for two years which I am happy about. It is a bit of security. They are looking to take the club forward and I want to be part of that.ï¿½

Your take on tonightï¿½s game?

M. G.: ï¿½I think it was very, very poor all over the park. I donï¿½t think anybody did themselves justice really. Albeit they came out well and they played well but we contributed to that as we made them look good players. I think we have got to improve a hell of a lot for the start of the season.ï¿½

400 - 21/07/2008

Open forum (bullet points & quoteï¿½s)

On Sunday Weston-super-Mare F. C. held an Open forum in the Somerset suite at their Woodspring Park base.

Despite being more heavily advertised than previous forums, the meeting was disappointingly sparsely attended.

Below are a few bullet points to come from the get together:

*Manager Tony Ricketts said that he hoped to bring in a centre-back and a left back within the next seven days.

*Jason Burt is to be loaned out to Southern League Division 1 West side Taunton Town in order to gain some much needed game time.

*Jamie Laird has been offered a professional and playing contract in Norway . The Manager has told Laird that he should take it as it is a ï¿½once in a lifetime opportunityï¿½.

Should the 19 year old left back take up the position, he would be due back in November and if that is the case Mr Ricketts said ï¿½We may well speak to him again thenï¿½.

*The Manager looks to have closed the door on last seasonï¿½s Supporters Club & ï¿½Away Supportersï¿½ player of the season Andrew Robertson staying at the Woodspring Stadium. Mr Ricketts commented on Robertson ï¿½I tried to tie up with Robbo 2 or 3 times. I texted him to say when pre-season was. Andrew Gurney spoke to him. I think he doesnï¿½t want to come back and unless he approaches me that is it. Anyway there is no money leftï¿½.

*It looks unlikely that transfer target Darren Mullings will sign for Weston. The central midfielder who excelled as a striker against Exeter and a centre back against Plymouth was subject of an offer from Blue Square Conference South rivals Newport County on Friday. Ricketts said ï¿½I expect him to sign thereï¿½.

*The Manager talked about potential transfer targets which can obviously not go in to print until they are finalised.

*The Manager revealed that transfer target Ollie Barnes was ï¿½Offered more moneyï¿½ at Blue Square South rivals Worcester City and opted to sign for the St. Georgeï¿½s lane side.

*When asked by the floor about cup competitions, Mr Ricketts said ï¿½I donï¿½t think we will have any other option than to go for it in every cup competition we enter.

*Giving supporters cause for optimism, Mr Ricketts went on to say ï¿½We are not punching above our weight. The club has massive potential. My intention remainsï¿½ the same as when I took this job and I intend to take the club in to the Conference National.

*When the subject of playing budget was raised Mr Ricketts said ï¿½We have one of the lowest budgets in our league and it is exactly the same as last seasonï¿½.

*Offering a unique insight in to last seasonï¿½s troubled campaign, the Manager said ï¿½I offered my resignation twice and the Chairman didnï¿½t take it. With hindsight I made a mistake in taking young players from City and Rovers who where good technically but not physicallyï¿½.

*The Manager went on to say that he is ï¿½Looking to operate with a squad of 15 or 16 players topped up by Youth team playersï¿½. He went on to say that despite this ï¿½I am looking for competition in the goalkeepersï¿½ position. I donï¿½t think Luke Purnell is ready for the first team yet so I will be looking to loan him out to get some gamesï¿½.

*Despite featuring in Westonï¿½s pre-season programme the Manager said that he ï¿½Did not feel that the Youth team players where ready yet for the first teamï¿½.

*Mr Ricketts spoke of a community programme that he hopes to get up and running in conjunction with local Primary, Junior and Secondary schools linking in to the college and looking to cater specifically for the 14, 15 & 16 year old age group.

*The Manager finishing by saying ï¿½I am very optimistic about the forthcoming season. I feel confident we can hold our own if we avoid the horrific injuries that robbed us of crucial players last season. I think we will surprise a few people. I have seen the bookies prices and I think our supporters should get some money on. I will certainly be contacting my bookieï¿½.

398 - 20/07/2008

After match interviews (Tiverton Town V Weston-super-Mare )

Martyn Rogers ( Tiverton Town Manager)

M. R.: ï¿½As a football club we are delighted with the performance. The result is immaterial. You are looking for performances from players and team wise I was delighted with the way we performed today. We worked as hard as I have seen the team work.ï¿½

Your take on the Weston side?

M. R.: ï¿½To be honest with you I donï¿½t really take too much notice of the other side but at the end of the day there is some good individual playerï¿½s and they have got some pace up front. Iï¿½ll be honest with you, I donï¿½t think it caused us any problems tonight.ï¿½

Andrew Gurney (Weston Assistant Manager)

A. G.: ï¿½Very, very poor to sum it up. We didnï¿½t keep the ball well enough, we didnï¿½t create enough chances, didnï¿½t play well enough. Simple as that really.ï¿½

A makeshift side though?

A. G.: ï¿½A little bit but itï¿½s no excuses. Obviously the team that started probably wonï¿½t be the team that starts the start of the season but even so it was very poor and we let ourselves down really. We switched it around a little bit tonight.

1st half was poor, 2nd half was a little bit better. We created a couple of chances but it wasnï¿½t good enough.We had two decent performances in the last two friendlies but tonight wasnï¿½t so good. We will go back to training on Monday and start again.ï¿½

397 - 19/07/2008

Tiverton Town 2 Weston-super-Mare 0

A makeshift Weston side came up 2nd best in a game of few chances.

The visitorï¿½s where first to show, when following a foul on Ryan Havard, Mark McKeeverï¿½s free-kick was met by a header from Youth team graduate David Thorne that was comfortably gathered by Chris Wright.

Tivy immediately broke down the other end but Jamie Denshams effort cleared Ryan Nothmoreï¿½s crossbar.

The Devon hosts took the lead on 10 minutes when former Bideford man Jamie Densham shook off the attentions of Andrew Gurney and Mark Armstrong to finish from just inside the area.

Ryan Northmore made a great save from Bobby Hopkinson 3 minutes prior to the interval and Mark Saunders following up saw his effort come back off a post.

Home keeper Chris Wright pushed an effort from Mark McKeever round the post on 61 minutes after being teed up by Armstrong but within minutes Tivy had doubled their lead when a defensive lapse from the visitors allowed Densham to meet Adam Fauxï¿½s cross.

Densham went close to completing his hat-trick only to see a stunning save from Luke Purnell push the ball over the bar.

Weston went close with efforts from Ashan Holgate and Ben Wells but it was the home side that went closest to adding a further goal when Mike Boothï¿½s effort crashed back off the cross bar.

Weston: Northmore, Armstrong, Willshire, Green (Captain), Gurney, Burt, Thorne, Carpenter, Havard, Holgate & McKeever.

Substitutions:

Purnell for Northmore (H/T), Brown for Carpenter (H/T), Wells for Burt (H/T), Palmer for McKeever (64th), McGregor for Havard (64th), Grubb for Thorne (57th) & Havard for Gurney (88th).

396 - 19/07/2008

OPEN FORUM - SUNDAY 20th July 2008

On Sunday July 20th Weston-super-Mare F. C. will be holding an "Open Forum" in The Somerset Suite at The Woodspring Stadium. The meeting will start at 11AM and it is understood that Chairman Paul Bliss and First Team Manager Tony Ricketts will be on hand to field question's from interested parties.

395 - 19/07/2008

Havard return leaves supporters smiling

A popular sight that has lifted the supporters of Weston F. C. was the return of Weston born Ryan Havard to the Seagulls squad. After injuring himself in the warm-up prior to the Exeter game, the former Weston man made his first return appearance in Weston colourï¿½s in Wednesdayï¿½s game with Plymouth Argyle after replacing James Palmer at half-time.

After a typical lung bursting appearance Havard commented.:ï¿½I am delighted to be back at Weston. I couldnï¿½t of asked for much more really. I canï¿½t wait to get stuck in to the rest of pre-season and show what I can do.ï¿½:

394 - 18/07/2008

Captain Charlie to lead Seagulls in to battle

Charlie Comyn-Platt will be the Seagulls Captain for the 2008-2009 season. The popular former Swindon Town centre-back spoke to the website and talked about the Captainï¿½s armband, pre-season preparations, the Plymouth Argyle fixture and the season ahead.

Your thoughts on being made Captain for the forthcoming season?

C. C-P.: ï¿½Every time I go on the pitch I want to try and set an example.The boys here are really good to play with and I am really looking forward to it.ï¿½

You seem to be enjoying your football at Weston?

C. C-P.: ï¿½Definitely. The staff are good, Gurns is good, Ricko is good and I am really looking forward to it.ï¿½

A bright start to pre-season?

C. C-P.: ï¿½They are in the Championship (Plymouth Argyle) and if we can draw against them, who knows? Itï¿½s looking promising but we wonï¿½t know until the first game of the season.ï¿½

Do you think that we can exceed the finishing positions of the past two seasons ?

C. C-P.: ï¿½Definitely. Yes. Marvin is a great asset. What a great finish that was today.ï¿½

Your thoughts on tonightï¿½s game?

C. C-P.: ï¿½It was good. They played two different teams in each half and it was hard for the lads that played 90 minutes as obviously you are dealing with fresh legs in the 2nd Half.

Weï¿½ve shown some spirit as well, we put our foot in when needed to tonight and it was a good team effort. I liked it.ï¿½

393 - 17/07/2008

WESTON-S-MARE 1, PLYMOUTH ARGYLE 1

AGAIN faced by two complete squads, Weston put up another sterling performance to hold their Football League Division 1 hopefuls in a game played at a frantic pace.

Weston manager Tony Ricketts fielded what must be close to his starting line-up for the first game of the Blue Square South season on August 9 against Bishopï¿½s Stortford.

Marvin Brown, re-signed from Salisbury City and Ashan Holgate spearheaded the attack and with Mark McKeever and Dean Grubb operating on the flanks, they posed several problems for the visiting defence.

Argyle, as expected, made a bright start, using the pace of Jamie Mackie down the right to good effect, but their finishing was woeful, firing high and wide to waste several good moves.

However, the home defence, superbly marshalled by Charlie Comyn-Platt and with Darren Mullings in his favoured midfield role, coped with everything thrown at them, and it was not until the 10th minute that Mackie had a shot on target, forcing keeper Ryan Harrison to concede a corner.

The visitors took the lead in unfortunate circumstances on 16 minutes when Mullings, trying to clear Karl Duguidï¿½s cross, headed past Harrison.

As Weston got into their stride, Ben Wells tested French keeper Romain Larrieu and Holgateï¿½s header missed the target by feet from McKeeverï¿½s cross on 20 minutes. With their best move of the game on 32 minutes, Holgate and McKeever exchanged passes to open the Argyle defence and from McKeeverï¿½s cross, Brown was just wide with a thumping header.

Just before the interval, Brown was put clear of the defence, but he wasted a good chance.

Argyle fielded a much younger squad for the second half, while Weston brought on Ryan Northmore in goal, Mike Green for Wells and local Ryan Havard for James Palmer, and on 47 minutes McKeever went close with a free kick, while Mullings was just over from Brownï¿½s pass.

After Northmore made a good save to deny Jermaine Easter, Weston brought on Portuguese trialist Rodilsol Vias, and they got a well-deserved equaliser on 66 minutes when Brown lobbed keeper Lloyd Saxon from 20 yards.

Weston made a double substitution, bringing on Jason Burt and Mark Armstrong for Brown and Grubb, and as Arglyle began to dominate, Shane White, Dan Smith and Yala Bolasie forced excellent saves from Northmore.

Weston-super-Mare: (Starting X1) 1. Ryan Harrison 14. Jamie Laird 3. Ben Willshire 4. Darren Mullings 5. Ben Wells 6. Charlie Comyn-Platt (Captain) 7. Dean Grubb 8. James Palmer 9. Ashan Holgate 10. Marvin Brown 11. Mark McKeever

Substitutions: 15. Ryan Havard, replacing James Palmer at half-time. 1. Ryan Northmore, replacing Ryan Harrison at half-time 2. Michael Green, replacing Ben Wells at half-time 16. Rodisol Vias, replacing Ashan Holgate in the 61st minute 8. David Thorne, replacing Marvin Brown in the 74th minute 9. Ben Carpenter, replacing Dean Grubb in the 74th minute 12. Jason Burt,replacing Mark McKeever in the 74th minute 17. Mark Armstrong, replacing Jamie Laird in the 74th minute & 14.Jamie Laird, replacing Charlie Comyn-Platt in the 86th minute

392 - 17/07/2008

Attractive pre-season testers for Weston Youth (including Ryan Northmore interview)

Weston-super-Mare F. C.ï¿½s Youth Team, fresh from their success in lifting the Premier Division title in the Somerset Floodlight Youth League face a couple of testing games against quality opposition to prepare them as they get in shape for the new season.

On Monday the 18th of August they travel to the Wessex Stadium to face Weymouth in a game that kicks-off at 7:30pm whilst on Wednesday the 27th of August they host Team Bath at the Woodspring Stadium in a game that also kicks-off at 7:30pm.

First team goalkeeper and youth team Manager Ryan Northmore took time out to speak to the website and discuss the youth teamï¿½s build-up to the new season.

R. N.: ï¿½We are only going to run with two friendlies this year. Because of the size of the squad, i want to do practise matches in training so that I can get in, stop start the games and deliver my coaching philosophy to the playerï¿½s early on.

We have got two good tests against Team Bath and Weymouth . They will be opposition that will definitely challenge us and hopefully will set the standard for the rest of the season.

We have entered an Under 19 league in the college and we hope to retain our title in the Somerset Youth Floodlight League. We have got some talented youngsters to add to the squad that we have got left over from last year.

We have obviously lost quite a few playerï¿½s as well,-Through to the first team and other playerï¿½s that have gone on to fulfil the potential that they had showed in the first year. That is all credit to them. They have to continue their development without being mentored by the Academy. It is time for them to stand on their own two feetï¿½

Unfortunately not under the umbrella of Weston ?

R. N.: ï¿½Unfortunately for some of them. The thing is, different players develop at different times and just because you are not ready at 18 years old that is not to say that you canï¿½t continue your development elsewhere and fulfil your own potential within your own time frame.

Not everybody is cut out with the ability to be able to figure within the first team but having said that there are quite a few playerï¿½s within that batch that have the talent to become Weston first teamerï¿½s.

It is solely down to their own commitment to their sport and the element of luck as well.

There are some things in football that you can not control as a player but there are some things that you can control and as long as you do the best to make sure that you give yourself the best opportunity then what will be, will be from there.ï¿½

391 - 16/07/2008

Interview with Mark McKeever

Following Weston-super-Mare F. C.ï¿½s opening friendly of their pre-season campaign against Exeter City on Friday evening popular winger Mark McKeever put pen to paper on a contract.

The Weston based Irishman spoke to the clubï¿½s website after the game to talk of his immediate future, his coaching plans and the build up to the season so far.

You signed a contract tonight I understand ? A difficult decision to commit your immediate future to Weston ?.

M. M.: ï¿½No, From the last time I was here I had 3 great years at Weston and loved my football.

I have lived in Weston for the last 7 years as well so it is kind of like a home town club as well.

I enjoyed it at Bath last year. We had a good first season in Conference South, the year before we won the league so I wouldnï¿½t say it was easy leaving Bath because I enjoyed it there but when I was leaving, the only place I was really going to come back to was Weston.

Iï¿½ve got the family here, so more than happy to commit to the next two years.ï¿½

I understand there is a coaching role involved ?.

M. M.: ï¿½Thatï¿½s right. I am going to be helping Ryan (Northmore) with The Academy this year. Itï¿½s something I have done before, When Frank was here and something I really enjoyed so that had a part in it as well.ï¿½

Do you see that as a stepping stone towards a role in football after you stop playing ?.

M. M.: ï¿½Yes, I am 30 this year. I canï¿½t keep on playing forever.

Coaching is something I really enjoy, something that I would like to get a lot more experience at. If I could go down the coaching route and stay in football that would be brilliant.ï¿½

A few words on The Pre-Season so far ?.

M. M.: ï¿½Pre-Season has been really good so far. It has been a mix of football and some tough running. When we have needed it. I think The Manager has got the mix just right.

I think it showed tonight, Although Exeter came on stronger in the 2nd Half I think our fitness levels held up well. They ( Exeter ) train twice a day every day and in a lot of respectï¿½s we matched them.ï¿½

Do you see anything to suggest that Weston can improve on the past two seasonï¿½s ?.

M. M.: ï¿½It is difficult for me to comment on that one because obviously I havenï¿½t been here for the last two seasons but from what I have seen Pre-Season, Really optimistic.ï¿½

390 - 15/07/2008

Interview with Ryan Harley

Former Weston winger Ryan Harley made his return to The Woodspring Stadium on Friday evening as he lined up for his new club Exeter City in what was the opening pre-season friendly for both sides and afterwards he took time to speak to Simon Stephens

How did your move to Exeter come about ?

R. H.: ï¿½My agent knows the manager (Paul Tisdale) very well and he said he knew a lot about me and wanted me to go down so he could have a look at me.

I went down originally, the first day of last pre-season and got injured and he said go away and get fit and come back when you are ready and Ricko kindly allowed me to do that.

I got myself fit here, played up until November and then went back to Exeter for a trial, for two weeks.

I did o. k. and he offered me a contract. The deal was originally until the end of the season but I signed a new two year deal in the summer.ï¿½

A fairytale ending to your debut season with an appearance at Wembley ? (Ryan was part of the Exeter side that beat Cambridge United 1-0 at Wembley in May in the Conference play-off final and will now be part of the Exeter side the start the new season in Coca-Cola League Two).

R. H.: ï¿½It was a great experience, t6he best day of my career so far.

So many people have asked me about it and I say that it just goes by so quickly and it is hard to take it all in.

It was a great experience and getting the win was the main thing.ï¿½

You are now excelling at Exeter , Can this act as a platform for you to move onwards and upwards again ?

R. H.: ï¿½I feel as fit now as I have ever felt. It took me a while to get myself going . Obviously I left Bristol City a couple of years ago now and it took m a while to get fit but I am fit now, buzzing and ready to go on again.

Obviously back in the league now and we will see what happens next yearï¿½

Do you notice any changes at Weston since you where last at the club ?

R. H.: ï¿½When Ricko came in he changed it. When Frank Gregan was here it was a decent club but I think it seems a bit more professional under Ricko.

Heï¿½s done a decent job but he doesnï¿½t have a lot of money to play with and it is hard for him to get the team up the league a bit higher but I think he does a good job here and gets the team playing the right way.

I enjoyed it when I played here, He played the way I wanted to play.

He is trying to build a team here to go forward but it is hard as he doesnï¿½t have a massive budget but he does things the right way.ï¿½

Where do you see Exeter and Weston finishing up in their respective divisionï¿½s this season ?

R. H.: ï¿½It is hard to say. We are not going to be massive favourites but teams that went up last year (from the conference) did o. k. and there is no reason why we canï¿½t bounce back.

There is no reason why we canï¿½t do well in the league.

Weston are not massive favourites in their league because the last couple of seasonï¿½s they have been near the bottom of the league but there is no reason why both teamï¿½s canï¿½t finish mid-table and beyond as they are both decent teams that play good football.ï¿½

Your views on tonightï¿½s game ?

R. H.: ï¿½Itï¿½s a funny game, 1st Half was a bit cagey, I thought we dominated the game in the second half, we just couldnï¿½t get that 2nd goal but I thought we controlled the game in the 2nd Half, We moved the ball well.

Itï¿½s just a good workout for both teams.

Itï¿½s mainly fitness and most people played 45 Minutes.

Do you have a message for the Weston Supporters ?

R. H.: ï¿½I enjoyed my time here. They where good to me the fans. They obviously havnï¿½t got loads of fans but they always stick by you and it was great to be back.

I really enjoyed it.ï¿½

388 - 14/07/2008

FOOTBALL FUN DAYS

Our exclusive FOOTBALL FUN DAYS are designed to offer young footballers the opportunity to participate in 3 days of professional football coaching that is delivered by UEFA accredited football coaches, Ryan Northmore & Mark McKeever.

The ethos of these fun days is to improve the playerï¿½s technical ability, increase your childï¿½s physical activity and promote fair play.

The Football Complex at WSM AFC is again the venue for the Football Fun Days. The Complex has superb facilities with the use of two training pitches, indoor sports hall, first team pitch and changing rooms for both girls & boys.

The dates for the next FUN DAYS are 30th & 31st July and 1st August 2008

The cost of the FUN DAYS are ï¿½10 per day or ï¿½25 for the full three days.

Please bring indoor and outdoor footwear, rain jacket as well as a packed lunch.

PLACES ARE LIMITED ï¿½ For more information and to secure your place, call 01934 621618.

Weston super Mare AFC, Winterstoke Road, Weston super Mare. BS24 9AA Tel: 01934 621618.

387 - 14/07/2008

Interview with Andy Gurney

Following Weston-super-Mare F. C.ï¿½s opening pre-season friendly with Exeter City ; Assistant manager Andrew Gurney spoke to Simon Stephens.

How did your move back to Weston come about ?

A. G.: ï¿½I kept in touch with Tony and I had a brief conversation with him regarding the role and it went from there really.

I am delighted to be back and delighted to be on that side of it as well.ï¿½

Do you see this as the first step on the ladder to a long career in management ?

A. G.: ï¿½Obviously it is an opportunity to have an insight in to that side of it as well as hopefully still play as well.

Hopefully it can go well.ï¿½

How has pre-season gone so far and what where your thoughts on tonightï¿½s game ?

A. G.: ï¿½Itï¿½s gone well. The training sessions have gone well and the game as we saw tonight went well.

We had 3 or 4 people missing which you have got to add to that.

The lads have done well tonight, worked really hard and played some decent stuff so the signs are good so far.ï¿½

Who is there still to come back ?

A. G.: ï¿½Marc McGregor is away at the minute, Ben Willshire wasnï¿½t here tonight, Ashan wasnï¿½t here tonight so you have got those three to add to it and hopefully another one on top of that.

The signs are decent, An encouraging start but tonight doesnï¿½t mean a lot but it is always nice to have a decent start and hopefully we can carry that on now.

389 - 14/07/2008

Return of Marvellous Marvin sets Seagulls soaring!

Weston-super-Mare F. C. and there supporters have been given a massive boost with the news that striker Marvin Brown is to return to The Woodspring Stadium.

The 24 year old striker who made his debut at Bristol City aged just 16 has returned to the club from Blue Square Premier side Salisbury City .

After starting the first two games of last season for The Whites, Bristol born Brown was used mainly as a substitute.Despite opportunities being limited Marvin incredibly had the best goals per games ratio of any player in last seasonï¿½s Blue Square Premier.

Manager Tony Ricketts was understandably delighted and said ï¿½I donï¿½t want to put pressure on him but he should be our 20 goal a season man. Marvin is one of those lads who has got a lot of ability and just has to believe in himself '.

Press Officer Simon Stephens went on to say 'We have quality across all area's of the park and there is genuine cause for optimism and excitement.

There will be no pressure on us due to our finishing position's of the past two season's and with the quality in our squad there is no reason why we can not far exceed our achievements of the past two years.

Things are certainley looking on the up'

386 - 12/07/2008

Interview with Tony Ricketts

Following Weston-super-Mare F. C.ï¿½s opening pre-season friendly with Exeter City ; First Team Manager Tony Ricketts was interviewed by Press Officer Simon Stephens.

Simon first asked Mr Ricketts about his views on the eveningï¿½s game

ï¿½It was a good workout but we are not going to get carried away with it.

We had a good pre-season last year but look how we ended up.

We came out of it with no injuries. Gurney came off with a dead leg but apart from that no injuries and a good work out fitness wise.

Exeter where a little bit fitter than us and thanks to Paul Tisdale and his coaching staff for bringing a team up.

It was a perfect workout for both clubs.

We are not going to get carried away, we had a good start last season but fell away badly and we will continue to see how things goï¿½

Mr Ricketts was then asked what Exeter Manager Paul Tisdale made of the facilities and whether he would be likely to bring a side to The Woodspring Stadium again.

ï¿½The surface was superb and fair play to Bob Flaskett, It is as good as any and he deserves credit for that. It allows both teams to play football and we tried to play some football as wellï¿½

Simon then enquired about player movement and the latest players to put pen to paper on contracts.

ï¿½The contracts have been signed tonight and we will have a further 7 players on contract this year (Ed-Ryan Northmore and Craig Rand are both mid-way through two year deals whereas Ashan Holgate signed a two year contract earlier in the summer). Ben Wells, Mark McKeever, James Palmer, Andrew Gurney, Dean Grubb, Michael Green and Ben Willshire.

Obviously these are young players and we are trying to build for the future. This is important as it gives the club long term stabilityï¿½

The manager then talked of his disappointment at missing out on Ollly Barnes and also discussed Jamie Laird, Darren Mullings and Danny Wring who where all making their first appearance in Weston colours.

ï¿½We have lost Olly Barnes to Worcester which is a bit of a blow to us. Because he can play centre-back and left back

Young Jamie Laird did o. k. at left back tonight and I want to sign Darren Mullins but whether there is enough money in the pot to sign Darren Mullings is another matter.

We will have to have a chat with the chairman about that one.

Danny Wring is training and playing with us but unfortunately I donï¿½t think we have enough money in the budget to sign Danny Wring.

Danny is a nice lad and good to have around but we have plenty of midfield players.ï¿½

Mr Ricketts then finished by talking about former Forest Green Rovers and Llanelli goalkeeper Ryan Harrison who is currently on trial at the club.

ï¿½We have got Ryan Harrison on trial at the moment so we are having a look at him.

I thought he did really well, heï¿½s called for their goal and young Mark Armstrong has decided to head it but I thought he did O. K., commanded his box and came for everything.

Although we are going to have 16/17 players we need competition for places.ï¿½

385 - 12/07/2008

Signingï¿½s of quality signal Seagulls intentions!

Weston-super-Mare F. C. have signalled their intentions to make the most of last seasonï¿½s reprieve with an impressive signing coupled with a number of their sought after stars from last season putting pen to paper on contracts following friday night's opening pre-season friendly with Exeter City.

Local and national media trumpeted Ben Wells as having re-signed for Basingstoke Town where he spent last season but the classy former Swindon Town central midfielder has in fact signed a contract with the seagulls.

20 year old Wells came up through the youth ranks at Swindon Town before making his debut against Huddersfield Town in the 2004-2005 season.

He went on to make 4 substitute appearances the following season before being released in May 2007.

The Swindon based youngster signed a 1 year contract with Basingstoke in July 2007 and went on to make just under 50 appearances and score 7 goals despite being played in his unfavoured right midfield position.

Weston supporters will be delighted that wing duo Mark Mckeever and Dean Grubb have also committed their immediate future to the seagulls after both stimulated much interest from rival clubs.

Former Sheffield Wednesday, Peterborough United and Bristol Rovers winger McKeever re-joined Weston from Bath City at the tail end of last season whilst former Welsh Uï¿½21 and Uï¿½19 International Grubb joined the Seagulls in the summer of 2007 following his release by Bristol City.

Defender Michael Green is another whoï¿½s commitment to a deal will further encourage the supporters at the Woodspring Stadium.

Green joined the Seagulls mid-way through last season from bitter rivals Clevedon Town and went on to win the January player of the month award and made a big enough impression to be voted Managers player of the year.

Assistant Manager Andrew Gurney has also put pen to paper and completing the group are the former Bristol Rovers pair of defender Ben Willshire and midfielder James Palmer.

Goalkeeper Ryan Northmore and Defender Craig Rand both have a year left to run on their current deal wheras Ashan Holgate signed a 2 year deal earlier in the summer.

Meanwhile centre-back Ollie Barnes will not be joining Weston. The former Bristol Rovers man who was released by Salisbury City in the summer had been training with Weston in pre-season but has taken up the offer of a deal at Worcester City.

384 - 12/07/2008

Weston-super-Mare 1 v 1 Exeter City

Weston Team:

1. Ryan Northmore 2. Michael Green 3. Jamie Laird 4. James Palmer 5. Danny Wring 6. Charlie Comyn-Platt (Captain) 7. Dean Grubb 8. Andrew Gurney 9. Darren Mullings 11. Mark Mckeever 12. Ben Wells

Substitutions:

16. Mark Armstrong, replacing Danny Wring at Half-Time. 17. Jason Burt, replacing Andy Gurney at Half-Time. 1. Ryan Harrison replacing Ryan Northmore at Half-Time. 15. David Thorne, replacing Mark Mckeever on 77 minutes. 14. Sam Clarke, replacing James Palmer on 79 minutes. 10. Ben Carpenter, replacing Dean Grubb on 85 minutes.

WESTON made a positive start to the pre-season programme by holding Football League Division 2 newcomers Exeter City, watched by 411 paying customers.

Exeter brought along 22 players and fielded a completely new team for the second half, whereas Weston made only six changes.

Although they were missing Ashan Holgate and Marc McGregor, Weston made a bright start, opening the scoring on four minutes when Dean Grubb burst down the right, his deep cross was turned back across goal by Mark McKeever and trialist Darren Mullins beat keeper Paul Jones from 10 yards.

Although Exeter set up some slick midfield passing moves, they failed to break down a resolute home defence, with player-coach Andy Gurney, Charlie Comyn-Platt, Mike Green, James Palmer, Jamie Laird and Danny Wring dominant, with keeper Ryan Northmore seldom troubled.

At the other end, Jones made a full-length save to deny McKeever and Ben Wells fired just wide with Jones beaten.

For the second half, trialist Ryan Harrison took over from Northmore in goal, Jason Burt replaced Gurney, Mark Armstrong took over from Wring. Later in the half, David Thorne came on for McKeever, Sam Clarke for Palmer and Ben Carpenter for Grubb.

Minutes into the half, Wells almost doubled Weston's lead when he headed against the City crossbar, but after that Exeter, who included former Seagull Ryan Hartley, began to dominate and their equaliser came on 68 minutes when Chris Shepard beat Harrison after a mix-up in the home defence.

Harrison covered himself in glory towards the end, bringing off a string of brilliant saves including point-blank efforts from Ryan Semple and Michael Clark.

383 - 11/07/2008

Weston-super-Mare AFC introduce new SEAGULL'S CLUB

SEAGULL'S CLUB

Weston-super-Mare AFC are introducing a new and exciting SEAGULL'S CLUB.

Each Package will include :-

FREE entry to all home league fixtures at Woodspring Stadium. 20% discount on the Football Fun Days.

Dates of the next 2 Football Fun Days are 30,31 July & 1st August.

27,28 & 29th August.

The package also includes Discounts on local attractions and food outlets such as McDonalds and Domino's Pizza etc.

A signed Birthday card from all your favourite players. 10% off all items in the seagulls shop.

You can become a member of the SEAGULL'S CLUB for a fantastic price of ï¿½10 per season.

Bring proof of age and a passport sized photograph to the office at Woodspring Stadium to receive your UNDER 16'S ID CARD.

For more information and to become a member call Joanne on 01934 621618.

382 - 10/07/2008

Interview with Tony Ricketts

Following Weston-super-Mare F. C.ï¿½s last training session prior to their opening pre-season friendly with Exeter City ; First Team Manager Tony Ricketts spoke to Press Officer Simon Stephens.

Ricketts started off by telling how the club where frustrated in their attempts to sign two of their summer transfer targets.

ï¿½We tried to sign two playerï¿½s in the summer. Goalkeeper Kevin Sawyer and local lad Aaron Blakemore.

We checked with The F. A. to see if they where on contract and The F. A. didnï¿½t have any contracts registered.

When we showed an interest in them , Yate and Gloucester registered their contracts and that was that.ï¿½

He then went on to talk about the goalkeeping position.

ï¿½We need competition in the goalkeeping position.

Luke Purnell is going to be a good goalkeeper in the future, we might have to loan him out to get some games at a lower level to start off with but we still want competition and I want a striker and a goalkeeper hence why I went for those two (Sawyer and Blakemore).ï¿½

ï¿½Ryan Harrison (Former Llanelli Goalkeeper) trained tonight and we will have a look at him for 45 minutes on Friday night against Exeter City and go from there.ï¿½

Ricketts then went on to talk about transfer targets, Ollie Barnes ( Former Salisbury City Centre-Back) and Darren Mullings (Former Bristol Rovers and Torquay United central midfielder).

ï¿½I am still obviously trying to sign Ollie Barnes and Darren Mullings.ï¿½

ï¿½Both want to come and I want them here. It is whether we have got enough money to go round and then until I know about the striker, It is pretty difficult for me to make the decision.ï¿½

The manager re-iterated the need for a striker and was asked about French teenager Wilfried Domoraud who made such a huge impact whilst on loan from Yeovil Town at the end of last season. He also talked about former centre-back Curtis Ujah.

ï¿½We need a 20 goal a season man. The lads I have got here might not score 20 goals.

We need a proven goalscorer.ï¿½

ï¿½I donï¿½t know what Wilfried is doing.Wilfried didnï¿½t want to play non-league football, Very similar to Curtis (Ujah).

I havenï¿½t spoken to Wilfried for two and a half weeks so I donï¿½t know what the boy is doing but I know that he was talking about going back to London or France . We probably wouldnï¿½t have enough money for him.

It is a shame but you want players that went to play.

S.S:-ï¿½Any ideaï¿½s where Curtis will end up ?

ï¿½Curtis is down at Dagenham & Redbridge at the moment. Curtis is another that thinks he should be playing league football but it is not always that easy. It takes player when they come out of the league time to adjust.ï¿½

The manager then went back to talk bout Mullins and Barnes again.

ï¿½I can remember sitting in a forum last year and saying that we where hoping to sign Mullings and Barnes and they went away to Salisbury and Torquay respectively and itï¿½s taken us 12 months to be in the ball park for them.

They are my type of lads and I have worked with them in the past so I know what I am getting.ï¿½

Simon then asked about the futures of the players who where on the ï¿½undecided listï¿½ at the recent open forum.

ï¿½I Havant spoken face to face with Andrew Robertson. He is on holiday in America at the moment as is Marc McGregor.

We will look at it when he comes back.Playerï¿½s that miss 6 sessions are playing catch-up.

I donï¿½t care who you are but without a good pre-season you struggle during the season.

We have got loads of playerï¿½s that can play centre-midfield so I think we are full up in centre-midfield to be honest.

We are looking for a right sided centre-back and whether Robbo is that person, only time will tell.

The interview finished with Simon asking what standard sides The Manager expected Exeter City and Plymouth Argyle to bring to The Woodspring Stadium.

ï¿½They are bringing the full monty and Plymouth are bringing the full monty as well. I thank Paul Tisdale and Paul Sturrock for that because they are both good fixtures for us.ï¿½

380 - 08/07/2008

Open Forum

On Sunday July 20th Weston-super-Mare F. C. will be holding an "Open Forum" in The Somerset Suite at The Woodspring Stadium. The meeting will start at 11AM and it is understood that Chairman Paul Bliss and First Team Manager Tony Ricketts will be on hand to field question's from interested parties.

381 - 08/07/2008

Seagulls unfazed by Hendy u-turn

After agreeing to make the progression from Southern League to Conference South when leaving Clevedon Town for Weston-super-Mare , Defender Scott Hendy has performed a dramatic u-turn and is understood to have agreed a deal with Southern League Premier Division side Mangotsfield United.

As recently as 3 weeks ago, 30 Year Old Hendy gave an interview to Weston-super-Mare Press Officer Simon Stephens in which he said ï¿½ I have had a good couple of seasons at Clevedon but am looking forward to testing myself at a higher level with Weston-super-Mare ï¿½.

Upon learning of the news, Weston Manager Tony Ricketts was far from despondent and said ï¿½ Scott failed to turn up for our first three training sessions.ï¿½

ï¿½ Word on the street is that he has agreed a deal with Mangotsfield which I believe is money orientated.ï¿½

ï¿½I am not disappointed as I only want playerï¿½s who want to be at Weston-super-Mare and who want to do well for the club.ï¿½

Hendyï¿½s decision may well give an early opportunity to highly rated local boy Sam Johnson.

18 Year Old Johnson, like Hendy is a centre-back and Captained Westonï¿½s Youth side to The Premier Division title in The Somerset Floodlight Youth League last season an achievement which was crowned with him winning the accolade of ï¿½Student Athlete of The Yearï¿½.

379 - 07/07/2008

Devon big guns in attractive start to season for Seagulls!

After commencing pre-season training 10 days earlier Weston-super-Mare F. C. open their curtain raising programme of games with the visit of League Two new boys Exeter City on Friday (July 11th) in a game that kicks-off at 7:30pm .

It will be the Grecians first game action since winning the Conference Play-Off Final at Wembley in May and the first opportunity that supporters of The St. Jamesï¿½s Park based side get to see their new signingï¿½s in action.

Exeter Manager Paul Tisdale is understood to be bringing his Full First Team Squad to The Woodspring Stadium which will include Craig McAllister (signed from Oxford United), Emanuel Panther (York City) and Jack Obersteller (Wycombe Wanderers).

Also understood to be included is former Weston winger Ryan Harley who joined the Grecians in November of last year from The Seagulls.

On Wednesday (16th) Championship side Plymouth Argyle are the visitors in a game that also kicks off at 7:30pm and following on from last years successful fixture when The Pilgrims were said to have been ï¿½delighted with the facilities and the playing surfaceï¿½ at The Woodspring Stadium, Manager Paul Sturrock has indicated that he will be bringing his complete First Team Squad.

Expected to be making the journey to The Woodspring Stadium from South Devon are new signingï¿½s Karl Duguid (a player with legend status at Colchester United after 14 years at Layer Road as a player and including 3 seasons as Captain) and Jason Puncheon from Barnet (a player who was named F. A. Cup Player of The Third Round in 2007 and also named in The PFA League Two Team of the Year for the 2007-2008 season).

A bumper crowd is expected at both games as the Weston hierarchy have offered bargain prices on admission with Adults paying ï¿½5 and Senior Citizens and Under 16ï¿½s paying only ï¿½3 and spectators are advised to arrive early.

378 - 04/07/2008

Setanta Shield Draw

Southern section First Round

Matches to be played week commencing Monday 8th September 2008.

Dorchester Town v Newport County

Team Bath v Bath City

Basingstoke Town v Fisher Athletic

Maidenhead United v Havant & Waterlooville

Bognor Regis Town v Worcester City

Eastleigh v Weston-super-Mare

St. Albans City v Hayes & Yeading United

Thurrock v Welling United

Chelmsford City v AFC Wimbledon

Bishop's Stortford v Bromley

Braintree Town v Hampton & Richmond Borough

Round 2 is scheduled for week commencing Monday 6th October 2008.

377 - 03/07/2008

F. A. Cup draw again kind to Seagulls

Following on from being handed home ties in the preliminary round (Cheltenham Saracens) and first qualifying round (Westbury United) of The F. A. Youth Cup, Weston-super-Mare F. C. Youth have been handed home ties in the 3rd and 4th qualifying rounds of the competition.

Should they progress to the third qualifying round they will face either Forest Green Rovers, Mangotsfield United or Elmore whilst if they make it to the 4th qualifying round they will host one from Tiverton Town, Newport County, Brislington, Merthyr Tydfil, Chard or Yate Town.

Times and dates of the fixtures will follow in due course.

376 - 03/07/2008

Tiverton fixture switch.

The pre-season friendly at Tiverton Town originally scheduled for Saturday the 19th of July has been brought forward to Friday the 18th of July and will kick-off at 7:30pm.

375 - 02/07/2008

Weston start the Season at Home.

A quick