History Of Kidlington FC -10th May

Postman Wayne Tilling picks up a lot of interesting information as he pounds the streets, and it has fuelled his thirst for local history.

With a passion for village football, Mr Tilling (pictured) is piecing together the history of Kidlington Football Club and its numerous homes since the club was formed in 1909. The Oxford Mail reports he has tracked the club’s history back as far as the 1930s and has spoken to a number of former players.

But he is now appealing for help shed more light on the story. “I spoke to a few older players who went back to the 1930s when they played in Yarnton Road, ” said Mr Tilling, who is a former linesman for Kidlington and is on the committee of the Witney and District Youth Football League. I also spoke to Gordon Norridge, the club’s life vice-president, and everything known within the club has come from him.”

He added: “People remember them playing in Begbroke and then moving to the centre of Kidlington near where the Exeter Hall is now. Up until the 1950s most of these village teams did a deal with a local farmer and so there’s no documentation.”

Mr Tilling, 44, said the club moved from the Exeter Hall site in 1970 and he wants to uncover the circumstances. He said: “My understanding is the land was given to the village for recreational use and couldn’t be built on. The council decided they wanted to build on it and there was a referendum. I need to find details of that.”

The Hellenic Premier League club now plays at Yarnton Road, on a different site to that used in the 1930s. Mr Tilling said gathering accurate historical information was a difficult task. He added: “There are some references in history books but when you find people who were around at the time they sometimes contradict that.”

Mr Tilling, who has lived in Kidlington for more than 40 years, is also researching the history of other local clubs including Yarnton FC and Cassington FC, which no longer exists. His research on all three clubs can be found at kidlingtonfc.org.uk If anyone wishes to share memories, they can email infok11@kidlingtonfc.org.uk.

3rd Terry Wiffen Memorial Game - 7th May

On Sunday 9th May Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington are hosting their 3rd Terry Wiffen Memorial match which will be played at Kidlington's Yarnton Road ground with the K.O. at 12:30pm.

The match will be contested by a Kidlington Legends X1 side and an Oxford United Legends lX. It is expected that the Oxford side will contain Manager Chris Wilder and his assistants Micky Lewis & Andy Melvill amongst many other names from the past. The last couple of these memorial matches have attracted good crowds and Kidlington will hope that this will be the case again this Sunday.

Terry Wiffen was an inspirational character and friend to all of us at Kidlington Football Club, in fact he was a friend to the whole of the local football fraternity. Terry had been with associated with Kidlington F.C. for over 20 years and he was one of life’s true Gentlemen. After Terry moved to the Village he was soon seen down here at Yarnton Road and from then on his long standing love affair with the Club evolved. During his playing career Terry was a tricky left winger, who was famed for his ‘Wiffen shuffle’ which I’ve been told foxed many a defender. In his youth he was with Ardley United and Bicester Town, but then moved on to try his luck with football league side Swindon Town. Apparently this didn’t work out for him so he left after a short spell and moved on to play for Oxford City in their ‘White House’ ground days. After a several seasons with City he moved on to play for Abingdon Town and in the ’73-’74 season he was a member of the side that won the ‘most sporting club of the season award’, which epitomises what Terry was all about. Terry also turned out for Clanfield in the late 70’s and early eighties before his long standing association with Kidlington began. At Kidlington Terry was firstly a player and then went on to hold many other posts within the club, which included Reserve Team Manager in ’91-’92. During his time here Terry also held the position’s of Assistant 1st Team Manager, 1st Team Coach, Trainer and Groundsman. Allied to all this he was of course always a committed and conscientious committee member. Terry won our Clubman of the Year award on no fewer than seven separate occasions spanning three decades, and could almost call the trophy his own.

Terry was one of the clubs prime movers in the early part of this decade which culminated in us being able to obtain our floodlighting and stands, which are now resident fixtures at our Yarnton Road ground. On the night of the lights big ‘switch on’, there was no bigger smile, than the one on Terry’s face as we finally achieved our dream. Another of Terry’s traits was that he was always willing to pass on his footballing knowledge to the players, and would regularly chat with them about their game and how they could improve their play. Many of the players both past and present will tell you how he had offered them encouragement and support both during and after matches.
Terry was a fixture at Yarnton Road and truly was Mr Kidlington Football Club and he is sorely missed by us all. It was a pleasure for all of us to have been able to call him not just an associate, but a friend. Terry will never be forgotten here at KFC.

We now have a Terry Wiffen trophy cabinet in the Club’s Sports bar, the Terry Wiffen trophy presented which is presented to the supporters player of the season. There is also the Plaque at the entrance to the changing rooms which is there for all to see, and of course we are here today to honour his memory at this 3rd memorial match.

Youth Team Champs -27th April

Good news for Kidlington, their Youth team won the Oxfordshire Youth Cup on Sunday afternoon beating Henley Town youth 1 - 0 in the final at Banbury United's Spencer's Stadium.

Kidlingtons' hero was Sam Pearce who beat a couple of players before smashing his shot into the net for the winner.

Home Win To End Season? -23rd April

Tomorrow Kidlington play Pegasus Juniors at Yarnton Road in the last league match of the season for the home side.

Manager Gordon Geary wants to finish a long hard season with a win. Kidlington have been finding it difficult in the last few matches, losing 3 - 0, three times in succession, which equates to 270 minutes of play without scoring.

Geary said " We will be looking to attack in this one. It seems to dent our players moral when we fall behind, so I want us to go out and score the first goal and take it from there".

Striker Luke Holden should be in contention and it is hoped midfielder Lee Bolton will have been able to return from Mexico after being delayed by the proverbial no fly issues. Definitely out will be Brad Chalmers suspended and Jordan Parker is unavailable.

Good To Be Back - 19th April

Tomorrow night Kidlington return to Hellenic League action with an away trip to Flackwell Heath K.O. 7:45pm.

After being without a fixture for nearly two weeks Kidlington's players are eager to get back onto the pitch and try and end the season with a couple of good results, starting with this one against Flackwell.

Kidlington have had some good news that both their main strikers Luke Holden and Jimmy Deabill are back in action after injury and both are included in the squad. Missing will be Brad Chalmers suspension and Lee Bolton who is currently in Mexico.

Kidlington Vet's Win County Cup - 9th April

Wednesday evening at Witney United's ground, Kidlington and Old Hooky met in the final of the Oxfordshire Veteran's Cup. With a strong wind and a bumpy surface to contend with it was hardly ideal for Kidlington's style of play. However Kiddy overcame Old Hooky 2-1 with a goal in each half from top scorer and captain for the night Shaun Pearce. For large periods Kiddy appeared nervous and their play wasn't as fluent as usual and Hooky looked as if they might go on to win the match after equalising early in the second half. Hooky had a right go at it and pressed the ball all around the pitch. Hooky have quality players who always looked able to cause Kiddy problems, but in the end after Kiddy's second went in the pressure eases and the cup was won.

Overall it was felt Kiddy did just about enough on the night and deserve the win. Kiddy Vets manager Warren Jones said afterwards "The main thing is we won and retained the trophy. Congratulations to all of our players and the ones who couldn't be there, but have played a big part in our season. We now need a strong finish to our league campaign to keep the dream of the double alive.

Increase Win Tally? - 1st April

Kidlington are now unbeaten in 3 matches and will certainly be want to increase this against Shortwood on Saturday.

Kidlington and Shortwood drew 1 - 1 earlier in the season at Yarnton Road with the visitors netting a late equaliser. This match was a real thriller and although Shortwood did leave it late they thoroughly deserved their point that day.

Kidlington had an excellent win at Pegasus last Saturday and would have followed this up with another victory against Abingdon Town on Tuesday, but missed chances and a couple of really dubious penalty decisions conspired against them and they had to settle for a 2 - 2 draw after thoroughly battering their opponents, especially in the second half

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Manager Gordon Geary said “Our form is good and with a little more luck we would be on the back of 3 wins coming into this one. It is really nice that we have got things back together again after our blip a few weeks back". Geary will be without midfielder Jack Quainton through suspension. The rest of the squad remains the unchanged though.

KFC Squad –Tom McNamara, Rob Hamling, Chris Weedon, Danny Leggett, Brad Chalmers, Mark Flanagan, Jimmy Deabill, Jordan Parker, Adam Lovegrove, Lee Bolton, Nathan Geary, Ben Willoughby, Mark Baker, Andy White, Lewis Coyle, Richard Brooks, Jamie Debanks, Jack Johnson

Upset For The Abbots? - 29th March

Kidlington now on the back of a two game winning streak will certainly be looking to increase this against Abingdon Town tomorrow night at Culham Road.

Kidlington and Abingdon have already met three times this season, all at Yarnton Road and all ending in 1 – 0 score lines. Kidlington won the first of these in the FA Cup, but since then Abingdon have beaten Kiddy in the League and the Bluefin Hellenic Challenge Cup.

Kidlington had an excellent win at Pegasus on Saturday, but again they had to do it the hard after way coming back from a goal down at half time. Danny Leggett converted an penalty for them, before recent signing Andy White netted in the 85th minute to secure the points. Manager Gordon Geary said “ Our form and performances have certainly begun to pick up again and I’m looking for us to produce again against Abingdon tomorrow”. He went on to add that. “Abingdon Manager Marco (Mark O’Hara) and I go back a long way and when our sides have met so far this season the matches have been close and competitive affairs, and I expect this will be the case in this one too”.

Geary will have Mark Flanagan, Adam Lovegrove and Jordan Parker back in contention, however Jimmy Deabill received a knock on the ankle and will miss out. Also missing will be Luke Holden and James Philpott who are both on the road to recovery from leg injuries, but not fit enough for starts yet.

Hereford for 'Kiddy' - 26th March

Kidlington travel to Herefordshire to take on Pegasus Juniors in the Premier Division tomorrow, K.O. 3:00pm.

After their injury time victory against Highworth Town in mid week Kidlington will go into this match with their confidence restored.

A battling display and a super late strike from Jordan Parker did the damage against Highworth as Kiddy ran out 2 – 1 winners. Danny Leggett had brought Kidlington back into the match, from the penalty spot midway through the second half and Parker’s late strike secured the points. Manager Gordon Geary reported; “Danny (Leggett) is a doubt for the trip to Hereford because of a leg injury he suffered on Tuesday, so we will be giving him a late fitness test. We will definitely be without Mark Flanagan, Adam Lovegrove and Richard Brooks, who are all unavailable”.

Kidlington will have Lee Bolton back in contention, and some really good news for the club is that both Luke Holden and James Philpott are about to start light training again, after both being out for over 2 months. Geary has also added Andy White, Tom Herbert, Jamie Debanks, Tom Castle and Jack Johnson to the squad for this Saturday.

Geary Continues At Kidlington - 23rd March

Premier Division Kidlington have announced that agreement has been reached with Gordon Geary and the rest of his management team to carry on guiding the club forward next season.

Geary and his team of Keith Appleton, Paul Harwood and Gary Johnson were new to the club this season and have done a tremendous job. They have harnessed a lot of the young talent within the Village and given them a chance to shine in the 1st team. This season the team have exceeded expectations as they have constantly been in the top half of the Hellenic Premier Division table and had good runs in all the cup competitions.

Kidlington Chairman Lloyd Wray commented. “I am delighted they have agreed to stay on, they are all Kidlington lads and have been 100% committed to the club. Next season they have big plans and with them definitely staying we now have a great platform to work from”.

Geary said of his re-appointment “I am delighted to be given the chance again to continue building on what we already have here for next season. This is my home "town" club and we already have ideas and plans for the what we would like to do. We have learnt a lot this term and will strive to build on this and of course endeavour to bring some silverware back here to Yarnton Road”

Shell Shocked Kiddy - 22nd March

Kidlington entertain Highworth Town tomorrow night for a league match at Yarnton Road, K.O. 7:45pm.

Kidlington still shell shocked from the defeat they suffered against Fairford on Saturday will be desperate to get something out of this match. After battling their way into a 3 – 2 lead against the Gloucestershire side Kidlington then succumbed to 2 goals in injury time to end up losing 4 – 3. Manager Gordon Geary said. “The defeat at the weekend was really hard to take. We didn’t play particularly well in the 1st half, but after the break we really took the game to the visitors. When we eventually got our noses in front we looked in a pretty comfortable position and just how we lost it from there is unbelievable. Fairford had only had one shot in the half prior to the late goals and that had been from the penalty spot, I really still can’t believe it happened it was surreal!” Geary went on to add “ We must now pick ourselves up and apply ourselves for the full 90 minutes tomorrow. We will have Jimmy Deabill, Adam Lovegrove and Jordan Parker back after all 3 missed the Fairford defeat, and this will give me some much needed options”.

Local Derby - 11th March

Kidlington travel up the road to take on Ardley United in a league match,on Saturday. Bothteams won midweek after a barren spell.

Kidlington returned to winning ways at Malmesbury’s Flying Monk ground on Tuesday evening. Kidlington won 3 – 0 and all their goals were scored in the second half, two from Mark Flanagan and a Jack Quainton strike.

Manager Gordon Geary said “ I thought we did well considering the condition of the pitch over at Malmesbury. They were a tough nut to crack, but once we got our noses in front we seemed to move up a gear. I was extremely pleased by the all round performance of the players and am now hoping we can take this form into Saturdays match with Ardley”.

For Saturday’s match Ben Willoughby is suspended and Luke Holden & James Philpott are still missing through injury

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Desperate For Win - 8th March

Kidlington will be desperately trying to get back to winning ways against Malmesbury Victoria tomorrow night after suffering four straight defeats. The latest of these was a 6 – 1 reverse at Binfield last Saturday.

Manager Gordon Geary said. “The defeat last weekend was a real dissapointment, I thought we were playing quite well and were unlucky to go in at the break 1 – 0 down. However a penalty early in the second half seemed to knock the stuffing out of us and 4 more goals for them in a 20 minute spell certainly did for us”.

Geary further commented. “After the match we had a sit down with the players. This was a good and very frank session with plenty of two way discussion, I will now be looking for a response from the players at Malmesbury and I want the players to show they are ready and up for the battle”.

Kidlington will be buoyed by the return of Mark Baker, Jack Quainton and Lee Bolton, all three missed the Binfield match. However Kidlington still have several players missing because of injury and Kieran Sanders is unavailable because of work commitments.

KFC Squad – Tom McNamara, Chris Weedon, Danny Leggett, Brad Chalmers, Jack Quainton, Mark Flanagan, Jimmy Deabill, Jordan Parker, Adam Lovegrove, Lee Bolton, Jack Johnson, Ben Willoughby, Mark Baker, Lewis Coyle

Back To Winning Ways? - 6th March

Kidlington are without a win in 3 matches now so will be looking to get back to winning ways this afternoon when they travel to Binfield.

The mid week defeat, suffered at the hands of title contenders Almondsbury, showed a much improved performance from the Yarnton Road outfit. But two late goals certainly gave the score line a more flattering appearance than ‘The Almonds’ had deserved.

Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary said. “After a decent performance last Tuesday we will go into this match in a better frame of mind. We’ve played Binfield twice already this season, winning the reverse league fixture, but then losing to them in the Challenge Cup. Their results just lately have been very good and I know we will be in for a tough one against what will be a strong physical Binfield side.

Geary added. “This will be another big test for my ‘young guns’, but I feel they are still learning game by game and thus improving. It isn’t helped by the fact that we are having to use so many different players at the moment because of injuries and suspensions”.

For Saturday’s match Kieran Sanders, Danny Leggett and Ross Gray will face a late fitness tests. Mark Baker is suspended and Luke Holden, Lewis Coyle, Darren McNamara and James Philpott will be missing because of injury. Also missing is Jack Quainton who is unavailable because of work commitments.

KFC Squad – Tom McNamara, Chris Weedon, Danny Leggett, Brad Chalmers, Mark Flanagan, Kieran Sanders, Jimmy Deabill, Jordan Parker, Adam Lovegrove, Jack Johnson, Ben Willoughby, Lee Bolton, Tom Castle, Richard Brooks, Steve Litten, Nathan Geary, Ross Gray

Ground Staff Working Hard - 1st March

Last Saturday's fixture against Highworth was postponed because the pitch at Yarnton Road was waterlogged. It is hoped that the Kiddy ground staff will get a chance to get on it to prepare at least a half decent surface for the match with the Almonds.

Manager Gordon Geary said. “ It was certainly a bit of a miss not having a match Saturday, but the pitch resembled something from ‘the somme’ rather than an area to play football on”

Visitors Almondsbury have only lost once in the league this season, against Witney. Kidlington will be hoping for a similar result to the one that they achieved in the floodlit cup earlier this season, a 12- 0 win. However any sort of win would be good from a Kidlington perspective as they continue their quest for a top 6 finish.

For Tuesday’s match Mark Baker and Lewis Coyle are suspended and Luke Holden, Kieran Sanders and Ross Gray will be missing because of injury.

KFC Squad: Rob Hamling, Tom McNamara, Chris Weedon, Danny Leggett, Brad Chalmers, Jack Quainton, Mark Flanagan, Jimmy Deabill, Jordan Parker, Adam Lovegrove, Lee Bolton, Jack Johnson, Ben Willoughby, Jamie Debanks, Nathan Geary & Steve Litten

Looking To Put It Right - 25th February

Kidlington’s form has dipped of late and Manager Gordon Geary will be looking to put this right against Highworth at the weekend.
 
Geary said “ It’s been a taxing time of late  and some of the players are feeling the pace of playing so many matches on such muddy pitches. We are a footballing side and have struggled on these surfaces. Injury’s, suspensions and these glutinous pitches they have been forced to play on lately have hampered the sides progress, but with several players becoming available again hopefully things will be looking up again soon”.
 
It mustn’t be forgotten just how far Geary’s side have come this season, for several of the players this is their first real season of senior men’s football at this level and they have done really well to have been constantly in the top 10 of the division all season.
 
For Saturday’s match Kieran Sanders will face a late fitness test. Mark Baker and Lewis Coyle are suspended and Luke Holden, Darren McNamara & James Philpott will be missing because of injury

KFC from: Tom McNamara, Rob Hamling, Chris Weedon, Danny Leggett, Brad Chalmers, Jack Quainton, Mark Flanagan, Jack Quainton, Kieran Sanders, Jimmy Deabill, Jordan Parker, Adam Lovegrove, Jack Johnson, Ben Willoughby, Lee Bolton, Tom Castle, Lee Rendell, Richard Brooks, Nathan Geary, Ross Gray

Kidlington Team News - 23rd February

Tonight Premier Division side Kidlington entertain Wantage Town in a league match at Yarnton Road, K.O. 7:45pm.

Last Saturday Kidlington turned in their poorest performance of the season and lost 2 – 1 to basement boys Bicester Town. On a terrible pitch at Bicester the home side adapted far better to the conditions, and after Kidlington were reduced to 10 men, deservedly took all three points.

Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary still fuming about his team’s performance said “I felt that we were very poor against Bicester and I will be making changes to the side ahead of our match with Wantage”. He added that “I warned them prior to the match that they would face a side scrapping for every ball. They didn’t heed my warning and in the end we got what we deserved, nothing”.

Kidlington will have Mark Baker and Jack Quainton back in contention and Geary added. We certainly missed these two players, their engines are immense”.

The good news for Kidlington is that Jimmy Deabill made a scoring return and the 90 minutes he played was certainly money in the bank for the big striker as he strives to regain full match fitness. Luke Holden, Darren McNamara and James Philpott & Lewis Coyle will be missing because of injury and Richard Brooks is suspended.

Kiddy Visit The 'Foxhunters' - 19th February

Kidlington travel to local neighbours Bicester Town tomorrow for a league match, KO 3:00pm. Kidlington have won their last 2 league outings and will look to make it 3 when they visit Bicester. Troubled club Bicester are still rooted to the bottom of the table, but since Kidlington beat them 7 - 1 in the reverse league fixture back in November they have had a couple of creditable wins, most notably against Pegasus away 6 - 1. Their form has generally picked up and they will be scrapping for every point they can muster between now and the end of the season.

Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary has warned his player about complacency and is just hoping they heed his warning this time. When Kidlington played Marlow a couple of weeks back it was the same sort of situation. Marlow hadn't won a league game since October, yet in a bit of a nondescript match they managed to turn Kidlington over 2 - 0. Geary will not want a repeat of that result on Saturday. Kidlington will have a few absentees this week. Luke Holden, James Philpott & Darren McNamara will be missing because of injury, Jack Quainton is supended and Mark Baker & Ross Gray are on holiday. There is a good possibility that Big Jimmy Deabill could be back. "It will be a case of wait and see how he reacts after taking part in full training this week" said Geary.

Chappell Celebration - 17th February

At Kidlington's recent home game with Shrivenham an after match surprise lay in store for committee member, and gateman, John Chappell.

He had not told anyone at the club that on the day of the match it was to be his 60th birthday. Unbeknown to John, his wife had made contact with the club press officer, Simon Dickens, a couple of days before to tell him. Dickens was then able to put the clubs' wheels in motion.

After the match John was presented with cards signed by all the players, club officials and supporters.

The surprise became an even better for him when he was presented with a fantastic cake, baked and decorated in Kidlington club colours by ‘La Patisserie’ proprietor and first team assistant manager Gary Johnson.

After a rousing rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’, John divided the cake up for everyone to enjoy. The evening of celebration went on for some while afterwards.

Carterton At Yarnton Road- 12th February

Kidlington entertain Carterton tomorrow in a league match at Yarnton Road, K.O. 3:00pm.

Last Wednesday evening Kidlington bounced back to winning ways against Oxford City Nomads. It was a hard fought victory and Kidlington had to come back from twice being behind, however in the end their quality told and they ran out with a 4 – 2 win. “After a couple of blanks in their previous two matches it was really good to score four, and it could easily have been more” said Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary He added that he felt “the large travelling support that we took to Oxford City helped, their vocal encouragement spurred the lads on, especially in the latter stages of the match and we appreciate their being there greatly.

For the Nomads match Kidlington had several of their injured players back. Unfortunately leading scorers Luke Holden or Jimmy Deabill were not amongst them. It is hoped that Deabill may be able to play some part against Carterton at the weekend, but Holden is definitely out with knee ligament damage. James Philpott and Darren McNamara will also miss this match as they continue to recover from injury.

KFC Squad – Rob Hamling, Tom McNamara, Chris Weedon, Danny Leggett, Brad Chalmers, Jack Quainton, Lewis Coyle, Mark Flanagan, Mark Baker, Kieran Sanders, Jimmy Deabill, Jordan Parker, Adam Lovegrove, Jack Johnson, Ben Willoughby, Danny Morgan, Lee Rendell, Ross Gray

Kiddy Take On Nomads - 9th February

Tomorrow FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington travel to Oxford City Nomads looking to reverse recent fortunes.

Kidlington have lost their last two away matches against Marlow United last Tuesday and then to Wantage Town on Saturday. On both occasions the matches were tight affairs and Kidlington must consider themselves extremely unfortunate to come away without any points. The problem is obvious though, after being so free scoring earlier in the season injuries to key players have bitten hard into the side. Nowhere more so than up front where both Jimmy Deabill and Luke Holden are side lined through injury. These two are the teams joint leading scorers and without them the attack at times looked toothless. Other injuries to the likes of James Philpott, Kieran Sanders, Jack Quainton and Darren McNamara haven’t helped, and coupled to this now will be a suspension for the effervescent Mark Baker after his weekend dismissal.

Manager Gordon Geary stated. “ It’s been a nightmare with all the injuries we sustained since Christmas, we have a young side here and often the players play through slight knocks, but with playing two games a week now it is stretching my squad to the full”. He went on to say. “ Before the Christmas period we had been pretty fortunate with injuries and were able to cope with the problems we did have, however in every game now we seem to be having a several more injuries to contend with. I think we have more players on the treatment table that I had out on the pitch for training last week!”

For the match at Nomads, Kidlington have still hopes that a few of their players will have recovered. However certainly out will be Luke Holden, Jimmy Deabill, James Philpott and Darren McNamara.

'Tuff One' for Kiddy - 5th February

Tomorrow FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington travel to Wantage Town for a league match.

On Tuesday evening a very depleted Kidlington side took on Marlow United and lost 2 - 0. Kidlington had 8 first team regulars missing, but still did enough to have deserved to have got something out of the match. Gordan Geary stated. “ If you don’t find the net then you will always be up against it”.

For the match at Wantage Kidlington have still hopes that a few of their players will have recovered. However certainly out will be Luke Holden, Jimmy Deabill, James Philpott and Darren McNamara. Kidlington’s management will be keeping their fingers crossed that Jack Quainton, Kieran Sanders, Mark Flanagan, Tom McNamara, Ben Willoughby and Lee Rendell come through fitness checks.

Squad From: Rob Hamling, Tom McNamara, Chris Weedon, Danny Leggett, Brad Chalmers, Lewis Coyle, Mark Flanagan, Mark Baker, Kieran Sanders, Jack Quainton, Jordan Parker, Ben Willoughby,  Adam Lovegrove, Jack Johnson, Danny Morgan, Lee Rendell, Ross Gray,  Keith Mitchell, Jerry Kapral, Lee Bolton, Steve Litten, Richard Norris

League Action At Yarnton Road - 29th January

Kidlington are back in league action on Saturday when they take on Shrivenham at Yarnton Road, K.O. 3:00pm.

After midweek heroics against a very strong Oxford United Side in the Oxfordshire Senior Cup, where it was a case of so near but yet so far, after going down 3 - 2 (aet) Kidlington will look to get back to winning ways against Shrivenham. Kiddy Manager Gordon Geary stated that he was "Very pleased with his sides performance" he added "You really couldn't tell who were the full time professional outfit, on the night we gave as good as we got and in the end looked to have been robbed of an legitimate equaliser by the linesman's flag. It also has to be taken into account that Oxford's vastly experienced keeper Billy Turley played and absolute blinder making a string of excellent saves to keep Kidlington out!"

Geary continued. " We must now put the Oxford match behind us and move on, I will need all the players fully focused on Shrivenham. We drew 0 - 0 at their place earlier in the season and they looked a decent outfit. I know they had a dodgy run at the tail end of last year, but they looked to have turned it around now, especially by taking the three points against Wantage Town and have won 2 of their last 3 matches".

For the Shrivenham match Kidlington will have Adam Lovegrove who was cup tied and Ross Gray back in contention. Missing out will be Jimmy Deabill, Tom McNamara, James Philpott and Ben Willoughby with injury's and Lee Rendell is out because of work commitments. There is a chance that Deabill, Mcnamara and Willoughby will play some part in the reserves match at Wooton Bassett at the weekend, but this depends on their physical reaction training, If they come through they will face late fitness checks.

Kidlington From - Hamling, Weedon, Flanagan, Leggett, Parker, Chalmers, Sanders, Quainton Holden, Baker, Coyle, Morgan, Lovegrove, Gray

Kiddy Meet Oxford - 27th January

Tonight FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division League side Kidlington FC are taking on Blue Square side Oxford United in the ¼ final of the Oxfordshire Senior Cup, KO 7-45 pm at Yarnton Road.

Kidlington are hoping for a good crowd especially as Oxford United have informed us they will be sending a strong squad to contest the match.

Oxford United are Oxfordshire’s top side and are pushing to get back up into the Football League again this season. They led the Conference table for many weeks, but owing to the bad weather over the Christmas period suffer several match postponements and have been overtaken by Stevenage Borough. However, Oxford have games in hand and currently sit second in the table one point behind Stevenage with a superior goal difference.

Kidlington are having a fine season of their own under the leadership of Manager Gordon Geary and sit in 5th position in the Hellenic Premier Division. Last Saturday Kiddy beat Flackwell Heath 3 – 0 at Yarnton Road playing stylish football, and are themselves unbeaten in their last 6 matches.

Geary said that “for me and my players this is a dream draw and we are thoroughly looking forward to the challenge”. Kidlington have a very young squad and have done extremely well in the league in this their centenary season. Just before Christmas Kidlington beat previously unbeaten league leaders Reading Town 2- 1. Earlier in the season Kidlington played a very entertaining match against Oxford City in the FA Cup, after leading twice they finally bowed out 4 -2 in a game played at Court Place Farm.

For this match Kidlington are advising people to come early and because of parking restriction near their ground are asking people to either walk to the ground or use the car park facility at Exeter Hall on the main Oxford Road. The other option would to use the public bus service that travel along Yarnton Road and stop directly outside the ground.

For the match admission prices will remain frozen at £5 with a programme, £4 without & concessions are £2.

Please be advised that this match must be finished on the night so it’s extra time & penalties if required.

Kiddie Combat Heathens - 22nd January

FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington are back in league action against Flackwell Heath tomorrowin a re-arranged fixture at Yarnton Road, K.O. 3:00pm.

Last Tuesday evening Kidlington won comfortably against Carterton Town 3 - 1 in the 3rd round of the Oxfordshire Senior Cup, which has now set up the mouth watering prospect of a home tie with Oxford United in the quarter final of this year’s competition. A date for this fixture is yet to be finalised, but it is expected that the match will take place in early to mid February.

Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary said “The lads performed exceptionally well against Carterton, I was very pleased with their overall fitness and positivity and of course the result, especially as we knew before the game that the prize for winning would be to host Oxfordshire’s top side at home at our Yarnton Road ground. This is a great opportunity for us in this our centenary season and believe me I will be going all out to win this match and progress to the semi final stage as we did a couple of seasons back”.

For Saturday’s match with Flackwell Kidlington will have Chris Weedon and Ross Gray back after suspension and unavailability. Also available will be Adam Lovegrove after he resigned for the club a couple of weeks back. Lovegrove was ineligible for the Carterton match as he was cup tied, but he is added to this squad. Kidlington will give late fitness tests to Jimmy Deabill and Jack Johnson, both are struggling at the moment, but Geary wants’ to give both the lads the as much time as possible to recover as he possibly can. Geary added.“ If these lads aren’t 100% on the day we have a big squad and I won’t risk them”.

On the down side Kidlington will still be without Tom McNamara, Ben Willoughby and Darren McNamara, these lads are still recovering from injuries. Also missing will be Sam Fincher who is serving a suspension.

KFC Squad – Rob Hamling, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Danny Leggett, Brad Chalmers, Jack Quainton, Lewis Coyle, Mark Flanagan, Mark Baker, Kieran Sanders, Luke Holden, Jimmy Deabill, Jordan Parker, Adam Lovegrove, Jack Johnson, Danny Morgan, Lee Rendell, Ross Gray

County Cup 3rd Round For Kiddy - 18th January

On Tuesday FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier side Kidlington travel to fellow Hellenic Premier side Carterton for a re-arranged Oxfordshire Senior Cup 3 round tie, K.O. 7.45pm.

Every team in the area has been football starved for the last few weeks and it is expected that both teams will be chomping at the bit to get out there and play a competitive match. Kidlington’s last two performances have seen them gain important victories against current league leaders Reading Town back in December and then a hard fought victory against Garsington in the 2nd round of the OSC, back on January 2nd. “We have been able to keep themselves ticking over by training regularly, but there is nothing like playing a full 11 aside match” said manager Gordon Geary.

During this period of inactivity Geary has not been resting on his laurels and has signed a couple of players. Ex-Oxford City man Lee Rendell has joined and is added to the squad for Carterton, also signed is Adam Lovegrove. He re-joins Kidlington from Old Woodstock Town, unfortunately Lovgrove is cup tied so he will have to wait to don the green jersey again. There is now added spice to this match as the winner has been drawn to Play Oxford United at home in the 4th round of this competition, so if the players needed encouragement to progress then this news will surely be it.

Kidlington will be without Chris Weedon and Sam Fincher who are both suspended. Also missing will be Darren McNamara and Ben Willoughby because of injury. Striker Jimmy Deabill will face a late fitness test on an ankle injury, but Geary is hopeful the big striker will be ok.

Lovegrove Moves Back - 16th January

Striker Lovegrove has transferred back to Kidlington after moving to Old Woodstock Town in October.

He was with Kidlington earlier this season netting 8 goals in 18 appearances for the Kiddy. However after not starting in a couple of matches he felt his chances of first team football at Kidlington were going to be limited and joined near neighbours Old Woodstock Town.

Things didn't go the way Lovegrove would have liked in his spell with OWT and Kidlington are delighted that he has decided to re-join.

Manager Gordon Geary said "Lovers in an excellent player, he's the sort that will give you 100% in every match. He scored some important goals for us, I was very disappointed when he decided too leave. As he was departing I had a long chat with him and told him that the door would always be open for him if he had a change of heart and this is obviously what happened".

In other news from the club. Although the arctic weather conditions have prevented any outdoor football Kidlington's Management Team has been keeping their players on their toes by training indoors at their base at Yarnton Road in the Sports and Social Clubs function room. After moving all the tables and chairs to give themselves space 22 players were there for a full training on Thursday evening.

The side are hoping to get back to action again next Tuesday evening when they are fixtured to travel to Carterton in the 3rd round of the Oxfordshire Senior Cup. Carterton and they have informed they have been able to clear the snow from their pitch. However the ground remains frozen underneath so we will just have to wait and see what happens over the next few days.

Beat The Freeze - 4th January

After beating the freeze at the weekend and gaining a valuable 1-0 victory against Garsington in the Oxfordshire Senior Cup 2nd round, FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier side Kidlington turn their attentions to League action on Tuesday evening, when Wantage Town will be the visitors to Yarnton Road, 7:45pm.

The match at the moment has to be considered doubtful as the image suggests. The current temperature at Yarnton Road, Monday PM is -2C with the pitch frozen solid. Overnight temperature is anticipated to drop to -4C and not rise above 2C on Tuesday. However with the British weather you never know what may be possible?

Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary is organising his players as usual and will have both Mark Baker and Kieran Sanders back from suspension. Brad Chalmers has also recovered from injury and will also join the squad along with goalkeeper Rob Hamling. Kidlington will be without Ben Willoughby, Tom McNamara, Mark Flanagan and Darren McNamara because of injury but all 4 players are on the mend. Geary stated."If we can get this match on I will be delighted, we had a good win against Garsington on Saturday and you always want to keep playing games to keep things ticking over".

The pitch is due to be inspected at mid-day on Tuesday and a decision will be made after League Office consultation once the inspection is made.

Kidlington Hopeful - 31st December

FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington will hopefully travel to take on Oxfordshire Senior League side Garsington, for a re-arranged Oxfordshire Senior Cup fixture, on Saturday.

As with many in football Kidlington have been without a match for over two weeks owing to the wintry weather conditions. Manager Gordon Geary has had the players training and reports that his squad is "up for the match" and looking forward to getting out into a competitive situation again.

Kidlington's last competitive fixture gave them the honour of being the first side this season to take three points off Hellenic Premier League leaders Reading Town. Geary said " It was an excellent game of football and certainly on the night the best side won it thanks to a last gasp headed goal from Chris Weedon. Since then the players have been 'gagging on the bit' to get out there on the pitch and continue where they left off".

Geary added. "The enforced break, although not desirable, has worked in our favour. A couple of our injured players have recovered from knocks received in the last few weeks."

Ben Willoughby, Tom McNamara and Ross Gray are fit again and will return to the squad. Still missing though will be Mark Flanagan, Brad Chalmers, Jordan Parker and Darren McNamara. Geary has added Lee Bolton and Danny Morgan to the squad.

Kidlington have also signed Lee Rendell (pictured). Rendell was with the club a couple of seasons back and with Oxford City last season. He is a left sided midfield player of which Geary said " Lee was with me at City reserves 3 or 4 seasons back, when I found out he was available I jumped at the chance of getting his signature for us here at Kidlington. He is a good skillful player and will fit in well with my current squad. Rendell unfortunately is ineligible for first team action this Saturday because of Oxfordshire Senior Cup rules, so he will turn out for the Reserves when they take on Ardley".

KFC Squad - Tom McNamara,  Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Danny Leggett, Jimmy Deabill, Luke Holden, Jack Quainton, Sam Fincher, Lewis Coyle, Ross Gray, Jack Johnson, Lee Bolton, Ben Willoughby,  Danny Morgan.

County Cup Away For Kidlington - 17th December

FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division Kidlington travel to take on Oxfordshire Senior League side Garsington in the 2nd round of the Oxfordshire Senior Cup, KO 1:30pm.

Tuesday evening Kidlington became the first side this season to beat league leaders Reading Town. It was an excellent game of football and certainly on the night the best side won it 2 - 1 thanks to a last gasp headed goal from Chris Weedon.
Kieran Sanders has given Kidlington the lead with a wonderful strike. After beating his man out wide he cut into the box and fired a rasping shot past the visitors keeper.

Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary said "I can't speak highly enough of the lads after their performance, they were excellent all round the park. I thought that for such a young bunch of players the effort, commitment and passion they showed against a team like Reading was commendable. With the squad I have here I've been watching them develop game on game and they certainly are growing in stature as the season has progressed. We like to play football for footballs sake, passing it and keeping possession, I try and instil this into all my players, really you could say it is my ethos. Some of the pitches lately have been affected by the wet weather and it hasn't always been possible to do this, so again we have to learn to adapt and we are doing this. We had a couple of below par performances a few weeks back as these sticky pitches came into play, but we have now adapted and will go forward into the rest of the season with great confidence".

About the match with Garsington, Geary said " We will approach this match as we would any other. I understand that Garsington knocked Kidlington out of the Senior Cup last season so I will have my players ready and guarded against a reoccurrence of that result. This is a different season and I feel if we can play as we have been of late we can be more than a match for anyone. It really would be nice though to have a decent run in this competition this season"

Kidlington will be without Kieran Sanders (suspension). Mark Flanagan, Ben Willoughby, Darren McNamara and Brad Chalmers will also be missing because of injury. There will also be a late fitness test for Jordan Parker.

Table Toppers At Yarnton Road - 15th December

Tonight Kidlington are back in league action at Yarnton Road against League leaders Reading Town -7:45pm.

The last week has seen an improvement in Kidlington’s form again. After the two defeats against Binfield and Highworth they bounced back winning 2—1 at home to Ardley United last Tuesday, then they ground out a point in a 0—0 draw over at Fairford last Saturday. Several of the players are now back to fitness, but again suffered injuries in these two matches. Brad Chalmers and Ben Willoughby both now have knocks & I don’t expect to see them figuring against Reading.

Reading have certainly set the league on fire this season, as we enter the Christmas period they find themselves unbeaten and lead the league by 7 points from their closest challengers Almondsbury. They have won 17 and drawn 3 of their 20 games played. They beat us quite comprehensively 3 –0 on their Scours Lane pitch back in late September, so of course we will be looking to gain some revenge for that night. It would be really fantastic if we could be the first ones to beat them this season. As we move forward now this is our last home match before Christmas, in fact it is our last home match of this year 2009. We have seen some great football here so far this season and I can’t ever remember seeing anything like that drubbing we gave Almondsbury a month back. 12—0 we were absolutely outstanding on the night and it was thoroughly deserved. Other matches that come to mind were the win in the FA Cup against Abingdon Town and the draw with Shortwood, when the visitors rescued themselves a point in the last couple of minutes of the game. Long may this form continue, it’s just brilliant to see all the young talent from the village finally coming to fruition and Kidlington rubbing shoulders with the elite of the Hellenic Premier.

Manager Gordon Geary adds Tom McNamara, Nathan Geary, Jack Johnson and a fit again Jordan Parker to the squad.
Kidlington will still be without Mark Flanagan, Ben Willoughby & Darren McNamara because of injury.

Kiddy at Fairford - 10th December

Kidlington travel to fellow FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier side Fairford Town in league action on Saturday, kick off 3:00pm.
Kidlington returned to winning ways against a strong Ardley United side on Tuesday evening, winning 2 - 1. After a couple of shaky performances in their previous two matches it was good to see the form returning to the side. For the Ardley match Kidlington had inspirational Skipper Danny Leggett back in the side after injury, and also because of an injury to regular 1st Team keeper Tom McNamara, 6' 7" keeper Rob Hamling stepped up for his first start of the season, he put in an excellent performance on the night. On Saturday Kidlington are happy to be supporting Fairford's Bethany Appeal.

Fairford are giving all gate receipts from the match to the appeal for local 5 year old Bethany Fenton who is suffering from an aggressive and inoperable brain tumour. They have planned to have several functions going on during the day including an auction of promises and a raffle with several high profile prizes.
Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary said that " I have spoken to our players and we will be supporting the activities that Fairford have planned for the Bethany Appeal. Geary then went on to say that he was "delighted with the player effort and application against Ardley, I asked them to play a slightly different pattern of play and they responded admirably". He then went on to add that "I hope that we can now start building again on this win and hopefully go on another unbeaten run".

Kidlington will still be without Mark Flanagan, Ben Willoughby & Darren McNamara because of injury. Ross Gray is available again and is added to the squad. Tom McNamara and Jordon Parker will face late fitness tests before a decision is made on them.
KFC Squad - TOM McNAMARA, ROB HAMLING, CHRIS WEEDON, JAMES PHILPOTT, MARK BAKER, DANNY LEGGETT, JIMMY DEABILL, LUKE HOLDEN, BRAD CHALMERS, JACK QUAINTON, KIERAN SANDERS, JORDAN PARKER, SAM FINCHER, NATHAN GEARY, TOM CASTLE, LEWIS COYLE, ROSS GRAY & DANNY MORGAN.

Players Back - 4th December

Tomorrow FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington travel to Highworth for a league match, K.O. 3:00pm.

On Tuesday Kidlington bowed out of the Floodlit Cup going down 2 - 0 to Binfield. Kidlington had a depleted squad for this match, but that should take nothing away from Binfield as they got their tactics spot on the night and deservedly progressed to the semi final at Kidlington's expense.

Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary said. " I was very disappointed that we went out of the competition on Tuesday, I thought we should have done a lot better than we did. Still sometimes things don't go your way and players have off days, we will just have to live with it".

Good news for Geary is that he will have Jack Quainton, Danny Leggett, Brad Chalmers, Kieran Sanders and Mark Flanagan back for the Highworth trip. With these players back fit and available again Geary certainly has plenty of options should he wish to use them.

There will be late fitness checks for Ben Willoughby and Mark Baker, but Geary is confident both will be OK.

KFC Squad - Tom McNamara, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Ben Willoughby, Luke Holden, Brad Chalmers, Danny Legget, Mark Flanagan, Jack Quainton, Kieran Sanders, Jordan Parker, Sam Fincher, Nathan Geary, Tom Castle,  Ross Gray

Moles At Yarton Road - 1st December

Kidlington and Binfield are in action tonight in the quarter final of the AM Print & Copy Floodlit Cup at Yarnton Road.

Last Saturday Kidlington found their scoring boots again winning comfortably against Ascot 4 - 0. This win saw them climb into 4th place in the table and they are now also the league's leading scorers with 53 goals in 17 matches, an average of over 3 goals a game. Kiddy played Binfield at home a couple of weeks ago in a league match and won 4 - 1, and the home team manager says he will be looking for a repeat. Gordon Geary stated. " Now we have got this far in the competition I would really like to progress, this is a competition the club have won before and we have a good record in it. I will be telling the players to go out there, relax and do their best. We are a young side and when we find our form, as we did in the second half of Saturday's match, we are a contest for anyone and I hope that we will find this form tonight against Binfield".

Ahead of the match Geary has a few issues to deal with, Danny Leggett, Jack Quainton and Darren McNamara are struggling with injuries whilst Kieran Sanders and Brad Chalmers are unavailable and Mark Flanagan is cup tied. Back into the squad will come Lee Bolton, Lewis Coyle, Danny Morgan and keeper Rob Hambling.

Geary added." I am extremely pleased to be able to have the quality of player available to step up for 1st team duties".

KFC Squad - Tom McNamara, Rob Hamling, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Lewis Coyle, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Ben Willoughby, Luke Holden, Jordan Parker, Sam Fincher, Danny Morgan, Nathan Geary, Tom Castle, Lee Bolton, Ross Gray.

Double Possible? - 26th November

Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington will be looking to do the double against Ascot United at Yarnton Road on Saturday.

Last weekend Kidlington won comfortably against basement boys Hook Norton in atrocious weather conditions. Though mid-week they suffered the setback of a first home league defeat of the season against a good Abingdon Town outfit. Kidlington have been scoring goals for fun in the last few weeks, but against Abingdon they dried up. Kidlington certainly had the better of the match, but could not turn their superiority into some much needed goals. Jimmy Deabill, Luke Holden and Mark Flanagan all had good chances to find the net, but in the end failed to really test 'The Abbots' keeper.

Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary said with regard to the forthcoming fixture."For this match I am expecting a totally different side to play against than the one we lined up against at Ascot a few weeks ago, when we attained an easy 7 - 1 win. Ascots' results have certainly picked up since then, in fact they have only lost one of their last four league matches and that was only narrowly against Flackwell. I will be looking for a reaction from my players after our mid-week defeat and thoroughly expect them to be up for it. We need to get the Abingdon match out of our system and move on".

For this weekend's match Danny Leggett and Darren McNamara still remain sidelined. There are also major doubts about Mark Flanagan, Ben Willoughby and Brad Chalmers, these three players are undergoing extensive physiotherapy and will face late fitness tests before a decision can be made.

Better new for Kidlington is that Keeper Tom McNamara has had no reaction to his injury and definitely back into the squad will be Jack Quainton..

KFC Squad - Tom McNamara, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Jerry Kapral, Jack Quainton, Lewis Coyle, Mark Flanagan, Mark Baker, Kieran Sanders, Jimmy Deabill, Ben Willoughby, Luke Holden, Jordan Parker, Sam Fincher, Danny Morgan, Jack Quainton, Brad Chalmers, Nathan Geary

Kidlington On The Road -19th November

On Saturday, 21st November, FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier side Kidlington travel to basement boys Hook Norton, K.O. 3:00pm.

Kidlington squeezed past Henley Town 4 - 3 (aet) in mid-week in a 1st round Oxfordshire Senior Cup tie. It was a close game throughout. The wind again affected the match with Henley putting up one hell of a fight before bowing out to a Jimmy Deabill headed goal deep into injury time, at the end of extra time. During this match Kidlington suffered numerous injuries and finally finished the game with only 10 men on the pitch. Kidlington manager Gordon Geary said "I was pleased to get through to the next round of this competition, but I think it has come at a cost, we have potentially lost five players to injury during the 120 minutes".

For Saturday Kidlington will instigate late fitness checks on keeper Tom McNamara, Ben Willoughby, Jack Quainton, Brad Chalmers and Jack Johnson. Certain non starters will be Danny Leggett inured and Jimmy Deabill suspension. Mark Baker is back from holiday, Kieran Sanders has recovered from an ankle knock and is available again and Geary has added Lee Bolton, Danny Morgan, Rob Hambling, Jerry Kapral & Tom Castle to the squad. Geary also said "It's a real credit to this football club that with several players likely to be missing this weekend I will be able to call up such quality replacements from within our squad. I hate to do this to our reserve team management, but all credit to Barry Hiles and his team they really
understand the need for me to do this and are supportive of the bigger picture. Their job is always a hard one and at times like this at short notice I can understand their frustration". He went on to add that" with other players coming into the squad it gives them a real chance to show me what they can do, hopefully once they have got a 1st team shirt they will make it very difficult for me to take it away again?"

Kidlington Tonight - 17th November

Tonight FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington host Division One East Henley Town in the 1st round of the Oxfordshire Senior Cup, K.O. 7:45pm at Yarnton Road.

After last weekends fine 4 - 1 win against Binfield they will be looking to keep the run going. Last Saturday against Binfield Kidlington lost Skipper Danny Leggett to a nasty calf injury, Leggett had to go to A & E where he received 12 stitches in the wound and will therefore miss tonight's match. Also missing will be Kieran Sanders who sustained an injury to his ankle in the same game.

Kidlington will meet Binfield again at Yarnton Road in a few weeks time, as the two teams have been drawn together in the Floodlit cup 3rd round on 1st December. Kidlington played Binfield at this stage of the competition last season and had a comfortable 4 - 0, so they will be looking to repeat this again this season. Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary says " I was extremely happy with the way the team has been playing in the last few matches where we have been scoring goals for fun, and i'm now extremely disappointed that I have lost the services of Leggett and Sanders to injury. However we have strength in depth in our squad and I am confident of achieving a positive result this evening".

For this match Mark Baker who was unavailable at the weekend returns, whilst Lewis Coyle and Ross Gray have been added to the squad.
KFC Squad - Tom McNamara, Rob Hamling, Ben Willoghby, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Brad Chalmers, Jack Quainton, Jack Johnson, Lewis Coyle, Jordan Parker, Mark Flanagan, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Luke Holden, Ross Gray

Kiddy Meet The Moles - 12th November

On Saturday FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington take on Binfield in a league match at Yarnton Road. The "Moles" occupy 7th place in the table on 29points, with Kidlington currently 4 places behind on 23, though with 4 games in hand over the Berkshire side.

Kidlington recorded a fantastic 12 - 0 win against Almondsbury Town in the AM Print & Copy Floodlit cup in mid week. As far as records show this is 'The Greens' biggest ever win at this level of football. On the night 'The Almonds' fielded a weakened team, stating that with an important FA Vase match at the weekend they had prioritised that match and therefore promoted several of their second string into their 1st team squad for the Floodlit Cup tie.

Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary said "I was really pleased with the attitude and application of the players in both our last two matches against Almondsbury and Bicester we have hit 19 goal with only one against". Speaking about both these games he went on to say "You can only go out and beat whatever is put in front of you, so I'm happy with that and pleased to have taken maximum points from the league match and delighted that we have now progressed to the quarter final of the floodlit cup".

For Saturdays match Kidlington will be without Mark Baker who is away this weekend. Coming into the squad will be striker Sam Fincher and Midfielder Mark Flanagan will be back after suspension.

KFC Squad Tom McNamara, Ben Willoughby, Danny Leggett, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Brad Chalmers, Jack Quainton, Jack Johnson, Mark Flanagan,  Jordan Parker, Keiran Sanders, Jimmy Deabill, Luke Holden, Sam Fincher.

Seeking Win - 5th November

After last weekends defeat to Abingdon Town in the Hellenic Challenge Cup Kidlington will be looking to get back to winning ways against Bicester on Saturday.

Gordon Geary comments. " I was extremely disappointed with the result against the Abbots last weekend, we just didn't perform as we should have. Because of the sides performance I will definitely be ringing the changes, the players must get back to the way they were playing earlier in the season and if it means shaking it up I will".

Bicester are under a new manager Chris Hurley and Geary knows all about him having worked along side him at Abingdon Town a few seasons back. Geary said about Hurley "Chris is a good honest hard working lad and he will have his players pumped up and really motivated for this match. If there is one thing about Chris I know he will produce a competitive team, I also realise he doesn't have much time to do it, but I am sure he will soon. When he gets that first win under his belt they will be climbing the table. It is my job on Saturday to make sure that his side doesn't achieve that win against us though".

The game this weekend is the first of a seven match run in a three week period, six of these played at home. A mixture of league and cup fixtures, a determined looking Geary said "I will be looking to win them all to get us right back on track for the season.

In mid-week Geary watched a Kidlington reserve side demolish a decent looking Cheltenham Saracens outfit 8 - 1. Mark Baker who has been injured for the last month played alongside Jimmy Deabill up front and both netted four apiece. In this match several players put in excellent performances including Lee Bolton, Mark Flanagan and Tommy Castle.

After getting 90 minutes in mid-week Mark Baker will be back in contention along with Deabill. Missing this week will be Darren McNamara through injury and Ross Gray because of suspension. Other than these two Geary has a full squad to pick from.

KFC Squad from: Tom McNamara, Rob Hamling, Ben Willoughby, Danny Leggett, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Brad Chalmers, Jack Quainton, Jack Johnson,  Lewis Coyle, Jordan Parker, Keiran Sanders, Mark Flanagan, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Luke Holden.

Kiddy Await Abbotts - 29th October

Kidlington entertain local rivals Abingdon Town in the first round of the Hellenic League Challenge Cup sponsored by Bluefin Sports Insurance.

Kidlington had a good win last Saturday at Ascot where both Luke Holden and Kieran Sanders hit hatricks in the 7 - 1 demolition of the Yellamen. This was Kidlington's biggest win of the season to date and was achieved without their two leading goal scorers, Jimmy Deabill and Mark Baker.

New signing Mark Flanagan will be in contention after his transfer went through from Woodstock Town last weekend. Flanagan joined Deabill, and central defender Brad Chalmers, in the Reserve team on Tuesday winning 2 - 1 at Wantage. Chalmers, who has been out with injury for seven weeks came through his second full game in a week, and is now ready for first team action.

Manager Gordon Geary said "It's great having the players back from injury and suspension and also our new signings. In fact it will give me a 'nice headache' in my team selection process in the coming weeks. However its always good to have a big squad because I'm sure during the season I will need plenty of players. Though Saturday's match it will be a case of trying to pick my best team on the day and then keep the others happy".

Geary went on to add that "Playing against Abingdon is always a tough task which I personally enjoy, as'The Abbots' are one of my old clubs. I'm under no illusions about the match against an Abingdon team now managed by, Kidlington Old Boy, Marc O'Hara. I know their will be a lot of rivalry, specially having beaten them here, in an FA Cup tie, earlier in the season. I am sure Marco will have his Abingdon players pumped up for this, so we should be in for a smashing game on Saturday".

Mark Flanagan, Jimmy Deabill and Brad Chalmers come into the squad whilst Mark Baker will face a late fitness test, other than Baker though, the club have a reasonably clean bill of health.

Tom McNamara, Ben Willoughby, Danny Leggett, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Jerry Kapral, Ross Gray, Brad Chalmers, Jack Quainton, Jack Johnson,  Lewis Coyle, Jordan Parker, Darren McNamara, Keiran Sanders, Mark Flanagan, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill,  Luke Holden.

Midfielder Transfers To Kidlington - 26th October

Mark Flanagan has re-signed for Kidlington from fellow Hellenic Premier side Old Woodstock Town.

Flanagan, described as a young tigerish left sided player with plenty of skill and bags of determination, was with Kidlington last season where he won young player of the year, but after the management re-structuring that took place over the summer was not sure if he would figure at first team level.

When informed that Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary was interested in him Flanagan didn't hesitate to take up the option to re-join the Yarnton Road outfit.

Geary said " I watched Flanagan last season when he was with Kidlington and was very impressed, however in the summer he chose to join Woodstock and I respect that. I still kept tags on him and when we played against Woodstock earlier in the month Flanny shone, therefore I'm extremely pleased that he has agreed to accept the invitation to join us again". Flanagan will come into the squad for our reserve team match at Wantage Town on Tuesday evening.

Making the opposite journey last week was front man Adam Lovegrove, his move from Kidlington to Old Woodstock Town was completed on Friday.

Holden Returns - 16th October

FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington Football Club are pleased to announce the signing of striker Luke Holden from Zamaretto League Division One South & West side Abingdon United FC.

Holden aged 25 & 6' 2" is a highly prized striking commodity in local football and Kidlington are delighted to have signed him in time for tomorrows clash with title chasing Shortwood United.

Luke, who is from Kidlington was with his home town club as a youngster and was leading goal scorer for 4 successive seasons. During this spell at the club he amassed over 100 goals before moving on to a 'higher level'. In fact Luke was also Hellenic Division One West leading scorer on two occasions, season 2003-04 & 2004-05.

Kidlington have been tracking him for some time and after trying to sign him before the start of this season are really happy to finally get their man. Holden said "Kidlington are an established force back in the Hellenic Premier and I was persuaded that it was the right time to come back" and as Holden had always stated "that's where my heart is and I can't wait to don the Green shirt again".

Assistant manager Keith Appleton said "from the clubs point of view we are delighted to have signed Luke, he is and always has been a quality striker and will certainly complement and help the other players already here at the club. He will go straight into the squad for tomorrows match with Shortwood"

Kiddy Entertain Contenders - 15th October

On Saturday FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier side Kidlington entertain title contenders Shortwood United at Yarnton Road.

Kidlington have drawn their last two league matches and know that this match against Shortwood is going to be a stiff test for their young side. Kiddy were two goals up at half time in the week against local neighbours Woodstock, only to take their foot off the gas and let the visitors back into the match, which finished all square.

Prior to the Shortwood match Kidlington will give a late fitness test to Mark Baker. Baker was not fit enough to play in midweek following an injury against Slimbridge last week. Assistant Manager Keith Appleton is hopeful that given the extra recovery time Baker will be OK for the Shortwood game.

Also on the way back is central defender Brad Chalmers who has been out for over a month with a foot injury. Chalmers is due to play for the Reserves this weekend. Appleton said; " It will be great to have Brad back but we can't afford to rush things, the injury was far worse than we thought at the time and he is probably coming back a week ahead of schedule, so we will just have to see how it goes".

KFC Squad - Tom McNamara, Ben Willoghby, Danny Leggett, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Nathan Geary, Jack Quainton, Jack Johnson,  Lewis Coyle, Jordan Parker, Darren McNamara, Keiran Sanders, Adam Lovegrove, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Richard Norris

Derby At Yarnton Road - 13th October

Kidlington entertain neighbours Old Woodstock Town tonight at Yarnton Road, ko 7.45pm, in a midweek FTL Futbol Hellenic League Derby.

Kidlington hope to have striker Mark Baker(pictured) back in the team for this match. Baker sustained an injury in the bruising encounter with Slimbridge last Wednesday and was not fit enough to take part at the weekend against Shrivenham.

The weekends 0 - 0 draw saw Kidlington record their second clean sheet in succession, however up the other end this is also the second match which they have gone without scoring a goal. Kidlington had been free scoring until a couple of weeks ago and indeed back in mid September put 6 goals past this week's opponents Woodstock in the reverse league fixture. In fact Kidlington had netted in every one of their first 12 matches scoring 38 goals in the process, an average of just over 3 a match. Assistant Manager Gary Johnson said " Kidlington will be looking to get back to winning ways by scoring the goals which I know they are capable of". He then went on to add that they will be warning the players against complacency, so with a little better application and perhaps some luck the goals should start flowing again?

Away Day For Kiddy - 9th October

On Saturday FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier side Kidlington travel just down the A420 to Shrivenham for a league match, K.O. 3-00 PM.

Kidlington bounced back to winning ways on Wednesday with a fine victory against Division One West table toppers Slimbridge in the Floodlit Cup. Slimbridge had gone 14 games unbeaten in all competitions this season until this match. Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary reported that "this was a good hard game" and he "expects Slimbridge to be joining Kidlington in the Premier Division next season". He went on to say that he felt that his Kidlington side should have won the match in normal time but a succession of missed opportunities allowed the match to finish without a goal, after extra time". This saw the match decided by the lottery of a penalty shoot out where young Ben Willoughby (photo attached) put away Kidlington's decisive spot kick to send the Oxfordshire side in to the draw for the last 16, by virtue of a 4 - 3 penalty score line win .

The win came at a cost, several players received knocks and their will now have to be late fitness test for Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill and James Philpot before Saturday's match. definitely out are Brad Chalmers injured and Jerry Kapral holiday. Kieran Sanders who was unavailable mid-week will come back into the squad. Manager Gordon Geary is also away this weekend so his assistants Keith Appleton, Paul Harwood and Gaz Johnson will be looking after team affairs.

Squad - Tom McNamara, Ben Willoughby, Danny Leggett, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Nathan Geary, Jack Quainton, Jack Johnson,  Lewis Coyle, Jordan Parker, Darren McNamara, Keiran Sanders, Adam Lovegrove, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Richard Norris

Kidlington On TheFA Vase Trail - 2nd October

Tomorrow FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier side Kidlington entertain Toolstation Division One side Bradford Town in the FA Vase 1st round proper, at Yarnton Road, K.O. 3:00pm.

On Tuesday evening Kidlington traveled to Hellenic Premier Division leaders Reading Town and were beaten 3 - 0. Manager Gordon Geary and his team will be looking bounce back to winning ways in this one and hopefully progress further in The Vase.

Geary , pictured,said. "We didn't put a bad performance over at Reading on Tuesday, I wasn't at all unhappy with the effort from my players. I thought Reading were a good side and from what I have seen this year will be definitely in the mix come the end of the season".

For this weekend's match Brad Chalmers remains sidelined with a foot injury and Ross Gray is unavailable. Back into the squad will come Jack Johnson & Richard Norris who both missed the mid-week defeat. Also added to the squad is central defender Nathan Geary after some impressive performances for the reserve team.

Squad: Tom McNamara, Danny Leggett, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Jack Quainton, Jack Johnson, Lewis Coyle, Darren McNamara, Adam Lovegrove, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Ben Willoughby, Jordan Parker, Nathan Geary, Richard Norris.

Test For Kidlington - 29th September

Kidlington are in action tonight away to league leaders and form side Reading Town, K.O.7:45pm at Scours Lane.

Kidlington progressed to the next round of the The Hellenic League Challenge Cup Sponsored by Bluefin Sports Insurance last Saturday with a comfortable 5 - 1 win against previously unbeaten Division One East side Thame United.

Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary said. " If we can replicate the way we played last Saturday afternoon we should fear no one, especially if we can reproduce this form on a regular basis. If we do this tonight night then the match with Reading should be a close affair". For the match Kidlington will still be without Brad Chalmers who sustained a leg injury against Oxford City in the FA Cup a couple of weeks back. Also missing will be Jerry Kapral, holiday and Jack Johnson who is ill. On the plus side Ross Gray and Kieran Sanders will return to the squad.

In last weekend's fixture, against Thame, Geary changed things about a bit, bringing Ben Willoughby into defence and Lewis Coyle into the midfield, both players performed well. Geary commented. "Having a large squad is a real bonus at this level of football, we play two games per week all the way through the season and it's a testing business. At Kidlington I am really lucky that I have such a dedicated and committed pool of players" . He added. " Reading have had some really great results so far this season. Shortwood were held 0 - 0 on Saturday, both these teams now occupy the top two positions in the table. Therefore I know we will have to be at our best to get something out of this match".

KFC Squad: Tom McNamara, Danny Leggett, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Jack Quainton, Lewis Coyle, Darren McNamara,  Adam Lovegrove, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Ben Willoughby, Jordan Parker, Lee Bolton, Rob Hamling, Jamie Debanks, Kieran Sanders, Ross Gray

Bolton Moves Back - 24th September

FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington have re-signed midfielder Lee Bolton (pictured) from fellow Hellenic Premier side Abingdon Town.

Bolton has been a regular member of Kidlington's side for many years, but after Mark O'Hara took over the manager's job at Abingdon he was persuaded, close season, to try his luck at Culham Road. Things haven't gone the way he had hoped playing for the Abbotts, so he asked if he could return to his home town club.

Kidlington would like to thank Abingdon Town for the swiftness in which they allowed his transfer to go through after the player expressed his wish to leave. Bolton was then able to turn out for Kidlington Reserves on Tuesday night and was influential as they ran out winners by 1 - 0 against Abingdon United reserves in a very entertaining match, which attracted a crowd of over 80 spectators. Jamie Debanks scored the decisive goal midway through the second half with a well directed free kick.

On Saturday Kidlington are in action against One East outfit Thame United in the The Hellenic League Challenge Cup, Sponsored by Bluefin Sports Insurance, at Yarnton Road. Thame were 'dumped' from the FA Vase on Tuesday evening losing 1-0 in extra time against Eastern Counties side Halstead Town whilst Kidlington progressed to the next round last Saturday beating Wessex League side New Milton Town 2 - 1. After being 1 down at the interval Kidlington came out looking a far more determined team in the second half and turned the tied with goals from Adam Lovegrove and Jack Quainton. They now go entertain Bradford Town from the Toolstation Western League Division One in the 1st Round at Yarnton Road next Saturday afternoon, 3rd October. Club Chairman Lloyd Wray said that "We are hoping for another decent crowd for both these matches and you can feel a buzz in the village at the moment with the great start to the season the 1st team have been having".

For this weekends match Brad Chalmers remains sidelined with a foot injury, Kieran Sanders has to fulfil a county youth call up and Ross Gray and Jerry Kapral are on holiday. Kidlington manager Gordon Geary said "With these lads missing it gives a chance for others to step up into the squad. After watching our reserve side against Abingdon United on Tuesday evening I was very impressed with the level of skill, fitness and commitments shown. On that performance I wouldn't hesitate to call up any of the lads if needed".

KFC Squad - Tom McNamara, Danny Leggett, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Jack Quainton, Jack Johnson, Lewis Coyle, Darren McNamara, Adam Lovegrove, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Ben Willoughby, Jordan Parker, Lee Bolton, Rob Hamling, Richard Brooks, Jamie Debanks, Richard Norris, Rob Johnson.

Yarnton Road Vase Meet - 17th September

On Saturday FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier side Kidlington are in FA Vase action against Wessex League side New Milton Town at Yarnton Road, K.O. 3:00pm.

After last Saturday's heart breaking defeat in the FA Cup against Oxford City Kidlington got back to winning ways against local neighbours Old Woodstock Town on Wednesday evening. Kidlington were excellent value for their three point in their 6 - 1 win which takes them up to third place in the league, with a game in hand on the leaders.

There is an injury concern for central defender Brad Chalmers who will still be out with a foot injury sustained in the FA Cup match last weekend. Also missing will be Jerry Kapral who is away on holiday and Tommy Hayday continues his recovery with a run out in the reserve team.

Kidlington manager Gordon Geary said he was "Really pleased with the amount of interest that is being shown in the football club amongst people in the village" and that he was "pleased if a little surprised by the number of supporters who have turned up to watch the team in the last couple of away matches, both at Oxford City, and against Bicester where Kidlington supporters made up the vast majority of the crowd". He also said he was " Hoping that we can again get a good crowd this Saturday to cheer the lads on."

Geary added "I hope this season we can have a good run in the Vase, because this young team are certainly brimming with confidence at the moment, and who knows what could happen with a win against the visitors on Saturday and then a decent draw in the next round"

KFC Squad - Tom McNamara, Danny Leggett, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Jack Quainton, Jack Johnson, Lewis Coyle, Darren McNamara, Keiran Sanders, Adam Lovegrove, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Ross Gray,  Ben Willoughby,  Jordan Parker.

League Action For Kiddy - 15th September

Wednesday evening FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington return to league action against Old Woodstock Town. The match with Woodstock will be held at Bicester Town's Sports Ground, where Woodstock are currently ground sharing, K.O. 7:45pm.

Kidlington were involved in a scintillating FA Cup tie with Oxford City at the weekend, but eventually lost 4 - 2 by their higher league opposition.

The team put up one hell of a fight, only falling to a couple of goals in the last 10 minutes. Just after the break Kidlington went 2 - 1 up when Mark Baker netted his second goal of the game, but the lead lasted less than 5 minutes as City scored a well crafted equalizer. The game then swung one way and then the other before Andy Baird netted on 80 minutes to give City the advantage. After this Kidlington pushed forward looking for an equalising goal, but the ever busy Baird took advantage and scored again putting the game beyond the brave visitors.

Kidlington manager Gordon Geary said he was "extremely proud of his team and that it was a massive disappointment that after playing so well for so long and stretching the home side all over the park that we weren't in the draw on Monday". He went on to add that "the lads can hold their heads up high as they gave everything for the green shirts and had Kieran Sanders shot, which keeper Richard Knight managed to steer behind off a post gone in, just before they got their 3rd who knows what we may have achieved, but in the end it just wasn't to be our day".

Kidlington will now turn their attentions fully to Wednesday's match against Woodstock. Geary reported that he will have to wait until Wednesday evening before he will know if injury victims Brad Chalmers and Jack Quainton will be fit after both took knocks on Saturday. He said "both Brad and Jack picked up injuries and will face late fitness tests, but if these two don't make it we have plenty in reserve". Defiantly out of contention is Tom Hayday who has work commitments, but other than this Geary should have a full squad to pick from, as Jordan Parker comes back into the squad after being cup tied.

Squad: Tom McNamara, Rob Hamling, Danny Leggett, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Jerry Kapral, Brad Chalmers, Jack Quainton, Jack Johnson, Lewis Coyle, Darren McNamara, Keiran Sanders, Adam Lovegrove, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Ross Gray,  Ben Willoughby, Jordan Parker.

You Never Know? - 10th September

On Saturday FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington FC travel just up the Oxford ring road to take on Zamaretto League Premier Division side Oxford City FC in an FA Cup 1st Qualifying round tie at Court Place Farm, K.O. 3-00 PM.

Kidlington spokesman Simon Dickens's said: "After Kidlington's excellent victories against Abingdon Town and Toton & Eling in the previous rounds everyone involved with the club is really looking forward to this match, and it's made all the better as this is the furthest Kidlington have ever progressed in this country's premier cup competition in this our centenary season".

Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary (pictured) added: "The lads have done me and the club proud during our cup run and we will go into the match in good form and as underdogs we will play with the freedom of a team that has nothing to prove. I have a good squad of young players here and we will go there to play football, so you never know what can happen, at the end of the day it's only a game of 11 against 11".

Last week Kidlington secured a super 6-1 bank holiday win against Hook Norton, they then followed it up by taking a more than creditable 2 - 2 draw, with a depleted squad away to high flying Bristol based outfit Almondsbury Town. Kidlington have also been busy with off-pitch activities bringing in two new players. The first of these is Jordan Parker a midfield player  who has transferred in from Zamaretto league side North Leigh, secondly the Yarnton Road club have captured the signature of Ben Willoughby a solid defender or midfield player who was with fellow Hellenic Premier side Old Woodstock Town. Parker is unfortunately ineligible for Saturday's match with City because he has played in an earlier round of the competition for his previous club and is cup tied, however Willoughby will come straight into the squad. Also back in the squad are the inspirational pair of Mark Baker and Kieran Sanders along with James Philpott, Jack Quainton and Tom Hayday. Geary has also added Ross Gray after the young midfielder has regained his fitness after sustaining an injury in early pre-season.

Team from: Tom McNamara, Rob Hamling, Danny Leggett, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Jerry Kapral, Brad Chalmers, Jack Quainton, Jack Johnson, Jamie Debanks, Lewis Coyle, Darren McNamara, Keiran Sanders, Adam Lovegrove, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Rob Johnson, Richard Norris, Ross Gray, Tom Hayday, Ben Willoughby

FA Cup Tie at Totton & Eling

This Saturday FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington travel down the A34 to take on Totton & Eling in TheFA Cup Preliminary round, K.O. 3-00 PM.

After Kidlington’s excellent 3 - 1 victory against Marlow United last Tuesday evening they will make the trip high in confidence. Their league campaign has started well and they currently occupy a top 8 slot after 4 matches. In the midweek match Kidlington’s manager Gordon Geary was forced into several changes both before and during the match because of injury and illness. The players that came into the side gave a good account of themselves and other members within the team, although being moved into areas where they may not normally play in put in excellent performances.

After the match Geary was full of praise for debutant Richard Norris (image) and midfielder Adam Lovegrove amongst others. Geary said “ Richard has come to us this season after being released by Southampton FC where he was unfortunate to suffer a nasty leg injury. He had struggled in pre-season, where he missed most of it with a problem, but when we needed him he was ready and did a good job for me. As for Lover’s, he has been brilliant for us this season and no more so than on Tuesday when Big Jimmy Deabill was injured early on, and because of Mark Bakers unavailability I asked him to lead our attack. He did this with some aplomb and scored a magnificent goal”.

Kidlington will give late fitness tests to Mark Baker and Jimmy Deabill, but Geary said he is hopeful on both accounts here. Definitely missing will be Tom Hayday and Jerry Kapral because of injury. Tom Castle and Mark Baker if his fitness test goes ok will also come back into the squad.

KFC Squad from: Tom McNamara, Rob Hamling, Danny Leggett, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Brad Chalmers, Tom Castle, Jack Quainton, Jack Johnson, Jamie Debanks, Lewis Coyle, Darren Mcnamara, Keiran Sanders, Adam Lovegrove, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Rob Johnson, Richard Norris.

Kidlington FC Team News - 20th August

This Saturday FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier side Kidlington travel along the A40 to Witney United for a league match, K.O. 3-00 PM. After their excellent 5 - 2 victory against Malmesbury Victoria on Tuesday evening, the highlight being a hat-trick for Adam Lovegrove, Kidlington should go into this match with their confidence sky high. Unfortunately Tom Hayday won't be available after he damaged his ankle ligaments in a freak accident in the warm up prior to the match with the Vic's. Also out injured is Jerry Kapral.

Back in the squad is Brad Chalmers after he was unavailable through work commitments on Tuesday. Other than the two injured players Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary should have a full squad to pick from.

Kidlington Squad: Tom McNamara, Rob Hamling, Danny Leggett, Chris Weedon, James Philpott, Brad Chalmers, Nathan Geary, Tom Castle, Jack Quainton, Jack Johnson, Jamie Debanks, Lewis Coyle, Darren Mcnamara, Keiran Sanders, Adam Lovegrove, Mark Baker, Jimmy Deabill, Rob Johnson.

Congratulations To Martin Baker - 19th August

FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington FC's are pleased to learn that Martin Baker has been awarded the prestigious accolade of Oxfordshire Football Association Groundsman of the Year.

Martin or 'Bakes' as we all known him here at Yarnton Road works tirelessly on 'his' playing surface and the confines of the ground all year round. It is testament to his endeavours that we have such a fantastic pitch for our teams to perform on week in week out.

Bakes' budget for preparing the playing surface for the new season was only £300 and when you compare this to other local club's outlays you really understand what a great job he does. Its all the more surprising given that every away team comments on the quality of the surface. "He really does work miracles on it" said Kidlington 1st team manager Gordon Geary.

Bake's has been with the KFC for many seasons and during this time he had fulfilled several different rolls including player, 1st team manager & reserve team manager, but he has never been happier at the club than in the roll he fills so excellently now.

He used to share the responsibility of tending the pitch with another 'Kidlington Legend' Terry Wiffen who sadly passed away a couple of years back. Since Terry's passing Bake's has really stepped up to been counted in his dedication to his hallowed turf. In fact he has said on several occasions he would "far rather that pitch not be used at all because these players spoil it" (tongue in cheek of cause!).

Well done Martin, long may it continue.

Kiddy v Malmesbury - 18th August

FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier side Kidlington entertain Premier new boys Malmesbury Victoria at Yarnton Road this evening K.O. 7-45 pm.

Kidlington's form at the start of this their centenary season has been good. In the 1st league game Kidlington took a point at Carterton, which probably should have been three, then on Saturday Kidlington overcame a strong Abingdon Town side in the F.A. Cup. They will go into tonights match full of confidence as I also expect the visitors will do. Vic's currently sit top of the table, by virtue of everyone else being involved in cup action at the weekend, with 3 points from 2 matches. Therefore we are expecting a good game and are hoping for a decent crowd again.

Kidlington have nearly a full strength squad to pick from. Jerry Kapral has picked up a foot injury and is unavailable, Manager Gordon Geary said " it's a shame for Jerry as he is a solid player and he was looking good in training, but we will now just have to wait for the results from his medical examination" Geary went on to add that "the rest of the squad are ready and rearing to go and we are all looking forward to this our first home league fixture of the season".

Kiddy For The Cup - 14th August

Tomorrow FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division Sides Kidlington and Abingdon Town meet in the extra preliminary round of the F.A. Cup at Yarnton Road, K.O. 3-00 pm.

After a 1 - 1 draw mid-week against Carterton in their first league match Kidlington will be looking to record a win to progress in the country's most prestigious cup competition against their local rivals. Kidlington's new Manager Gordon Geary and his team were pleased with their sides performance against Carterton and were generally happy enough with a point on the night, after Jimmy Deabill had given them the lead in the 55th minute. However after seeing the woodwork struck twice and home keeper James Domm pull off a string of fine saves they really could have taken all 3 points back home with them.

The match with Abingdon pitches together two managers new in their jobs, who I'm sure will be eager to attain a place for their respective clubs in the hat for the next round. Abingdon boss Mark O'Hara is an ex-Kidlington player and with ex-Abingdon Town boys Geary, Paul Harwood and Keith Appleton now on Kiddy's staff it should provide an edge to the match. Geary reported that "he has a full squad to pick from", so he has plenty of options if needed.

Centenary Season For Kiddy- 6th August

FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington start their "Centenary" league campaign next Tuesday evening away to Carterton Town.

Kidlington have been rebuilding over the few short summers months under the guidance of new 1st team Manager Gordon Geary, he has kept several of last season squad, but added several players from other clubs from around the area.

Geary is also keen for some of the Kidlington youngsters who have shown great promise in Kidlington's successful youth team set up over the last couple of seasons to be given the chance on the bigger stage. After a reasonably good pre-season Kidlington go into this first game with a full squad to pick from.

KFC Squad - TOM McNAMARA, ROB HAMLING, JERRY KAPRAL, DANNY LEGGETT, CHRIS WEEDON, JAMES PHILPOTT, BRAD CHALMERS, NATHAN GEARY, TOM CASTLE, JACK QUAINTON, TOM HAYDAY, JACK JOHNSON, JAMIE DEBANKS, LEWIS COYLE, DARREN McNAMARA, KEIRAN SANDERS, ADAM LOVEGROVE, MARK BAKER, JIMMY DEABILL, ROB JOHNSON.

"Captain Philpott" Returns - 3rd August

FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division side Kidlington have secured the services of their former captain James Philpott.

Philpott was with Ardley United last season, but he has decided after talking to Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary that he wishes to return to Yarnton Road. Philpott said that was "impressed by Geary vision for the club" and that after training and playing with the lads it was an obvious choice for him, especially as he felt he would fit in well with the players that are already here. Geary was delighted with the signing saying " 'Jamma' is a good solid experienced defender and I am happy to have a player of his quality and ability in my squad".

Kidlington are entering their final part of preparations now for the new season and will play Fritwell at Yarnton Road this Tuesday evening K.O. 7.45pm. Unfortunately Saturday's away fixture against Souther Premier League side Banbury United had to be abandoned at half time, because of torrential rain which flooded the pitch. This match was a pretty even affair with Kidlington's Jerry Kapral going close just before Adam Learoyd scored to give the home side a slender advantage in the pouring rain just before half time.

Ground Improvements - 29th July

During this close season FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier side Kidlington F.C's committee have been hard at work off the pitch as well as helping prepare the team for the new season.

The major ground improvement at the Yarnton Road ground is the erection of a new fence on the Yarnton Road side of the ground. This work enhances that required for the club to gain the FA GRADE F and now reduces the ability to view the pitch from outside the confines of the ground itself. The work has now been successfully completed as the attached photographs will testify. Other work has been carried out at the ground including the installation of new electrical power points, painting of the dressing rooms and shower areas, coupled with the painting and repair of the pitch-side barriers (image attached).

The pitch is looking in excellent condition thanks to the loving care of groundsman Martin Baker, who, at the end of last season treated the surface with a 'Weed & Feed system as well as deep drill seeding and top dress fertilization. Thankfully the summer weather thus far has aided the work implemented. Things are again looking good for the start of what will be the club's centenary season.

Three More Sign For Kidlington - 25th July

Kidlington's pre season plans are in full swing now as three more players signed on for the club. The players are Tommy Hayday (pictured), Richard Norris and Ross Gray. Hayday is a central midfield player and was with Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division champions Garsington last season. Norris a forward and Gray a defender both come to us from local neighbours Oxford City Nomads.

All three are player's that Kidlington Manager Gordon Geary had been after and he said "I am delighted to be able to bring these lads to Yarnton Road". He added that "These sort of players don't come along everyda,y so when I had a chance to sign them, well naturally I jumped at the chance".

There will be more news on signings in the coming days as Kidlington's squad moves toward the 1st league match of the season away to Carterton on Tuesday August 12th