Come Dine With Me - 19th May

No it's not an offer for our reader’s!

On Thursday evening Tom Smith (son of ex-Oxford and Wrexham manager and ex-Witney United player - Dennis Smith) is on TV in the Program ‘Come Dine with Me’. The footage of Tom (showing off his football prowess!) was filmed at Witney United a few months ago. The filming took about two hours but I bet you don't see a lot of it in the show. From the previews in the papers it reads as it’s worth a watch!

Free Community Day At Marriott’s Stadium - 5th April

Witney United announce the forthcoming game against Flackwell Heath at Marriott’s Stadium, on Saturday 12th April, will be a "FREE ADMISSION COMMUNITY DAY".

This will be the second time the progressive Sport Italia Hellenic League club has run such an event, having previously held an inaugural Community Day two seasons ago. Then, a crowd of over 200 watched Witney beat Pegasus Juniors 2-0. Potential crowd numbers suffering slightly on that ocassion due to a clash with the first game of Jim Smiths' return to Oxford United. Next Saturday sees no such encounter though.

Witney view the occasion as a way to thank their loyal band of supporters for their fantastic support. As well as an opportunity for new spectators to experience what Witney United Football Club provide the community in local sporting entertainment.

The day will not just be about supporting the football club though, Witney United have invited representatives of the Marie Curie Cancer Care to the fixture. The charity, founded in 1948, celebrates its Diamond Jubilee this year.

If spectators are able to make a donation at the match to this very worthwhile cause , it would be an excellent demonstration of Football Working Within The Community at Witney United.

Caton Signs For Witney - 22nd March

Sport Italia Hellenic Premier club Witney United have boosted their squad further with the capture of highly rated youngster Andy Caton following his release from Swindon Town.

Caton 20 shot to fame at the age of just 16 years of age when he came off the bench for The Robins in a league match at Wrexham and scored the winner in a 2-1 victory. He made a number of league appearances that season and appeared destined for bigger things the following season before he was hit with a cruciate knee ligament injury which forced him out of football for almost the entire season. His recovery from that injury received a further setback when he suffered a skull injury in a car crash and despite battling back from this setback he was released by the Wiltshire side in December 2007.

Since then he has been on trial with a number of league clubs and is currently still trialling with League One side Lincoln City but is short of match practice and has agreed to sign for Witney United. Andy comes from an excellent footballing pedigree as he is the son of the late former Manchester City, Arsenal and Oxford United defender Tommy Caton.

Lyne Services Secured Indefinitely -14th March

Witney United of the Sport Italia Hellenic Premier Division are pleased to confirm that they have secured the services of manager Andy Lyne for the foreseeable future.

Chairman Steve Lake made the announcement following the monthly meeting of the management committee and said "We wanted to move quickly to secure our management team at this time of year as many clubs are looking at this years performances and are planning for the next campaign and there is no way in the world we wanted to lose Andy and his team".

Lake also stated "In the club's six short years of existence it has progressed every single season and we hope that in reaching an agreement with Andy, we can finish the league programme strongly and kick on again next season."

Andy Lyne had no hesitation in committing to United and said "I am very appreciative at the level of support I have received this season from Andy Leach, the players, the committee, the chairman and the supporters. I feel that we have made progress but obviously that is for others to judge. Everyone knows I have a deep affinity with this football club and its supporters and I remain totally committed to delivering Southern League football back to Marriott’s Stadium"

Perkins Signs For Blanketmen - 22nd February

Witney United have completed the transfer of Christian Perkins (pictured) from Abingdon Town.

Perkins is an imposing defender who also has an effective long throw and of course needs no introduction to Witney supporters having been at the club last season.

He started his career at Oxford United before joining North Leigh. Subsequently he played at Oxford City before joining Witney United and moving on to Abingdon Town in the summer.

Commenting on the signing, Manager Andy Lyne said “ I didn’t want Perks to go when he left in the summer but he felt that his opportunities might be limited with the players that I had brought in. I am delighted to bring him back to the club at a time when we most needed a boost squad wise”.

Perkins is set to make a return debut against Shrivenham in the Sport Italia Hellenic League Premier Division tomorrow. Former Manchester City trainee Lewis Brownhill returns after a long lay-off through injury, but Stuart Douglas (knee) is ruled out. Jimmy Griffin is also missing as he completes his five-match suspension.

United v United - 20th February

Witney United confirm a fixture against Blue Square Conference side Oxford United in a friendly on Tuesday 26th February at Marriotts Stadium with a 7-30pm kick off.

The U's are without a game this Saturday and are keen for their squad to retain match practice and sharpness and have promised to send a strong squad to Witney next week.

Admission prices will remain the same as Hellenic prices with £5 for Adults, £3-50 for Concessions and £1 for Under 16's.

Anybody interested in match sponsorship for this game should contact Adrian Bircher on 07824 999119 to discuss the packages available.

Jamie Mills Transfers To Witney - 17th February

Witney have completed the transfer of midfielder Jamie Mills from Hungerford Town going straight into the squad for the trip to Wantage yesterday.

26 years old Mills started his career at Swindon Town where he made a handful of first team appearances. Subsequently he moved to Bath City and then Swindon Supermarine. He has also played in the Hellenic League for Highworth Town and Wantage Town.

Commenting on the signing, Manager Andy Lyne said “Jamie played for me at Wantage with his brother JP when we won the Division One Hellenic League title and he did a great job. He plays the game simply, breaks up the play, gets on the ball and passes it well. He’s also a smashing lad, who will fit in well with the boys already at the club. I am delighted to bring him to the club at a time when we most needed a boost squad wise”

Blanketmen Look For Cup Of Cheer - 26th January

Witney United take a break from their excellent league form today when they travel to face Fairford Town in the 1st Round of the SoccerKits Plus Supplementary Cup.

Having been surprised by First Division Letcombe in the SBJ Sports Insurance Challenge Cup, Premier Division United find themselves in the Supplementary Cup and will be looking to make an impression in the competition.

Tuesday's win at Ardley hoisted Witney into 2nd place in the league table, they will be hoping to capaitalise on that feelgood factor as they face Fairford for the second time in a month.

The clubs met in the league in December, Witney were made to work very hard for a 4-2 victory and actually trailed for a majority of the first half, so manager Andy Lyne will be keen to make sure his team do not under estimated their opponents.

Fairfords' form has been better of late, having only lost two of the last five matches since the last meeting with Witney, in that time have won at Flackwell Heath and also beaten Shortwood United at home.

On the team news front United will have to make do without Dean Smith who is cup-tied and there is still a doubt over John McMahon who is still struggling with injury.

Pitch Preparation Work A Winner - 14th January

The Witney United win against Pegasus Juniors in the Sport Italia Hellenic Premier Division was only possible due to the hard work of grounds-man Pete Bridgewater and Programme Editor Rich Wickson who got the pitch into a playable condition following torrential rain on the Friday night.

Pete and Rich turned out at 10 am to check out the pitch and at 10.30am local ref Dave Woodcock made an inspection and bravely declared the pitch was playable. Club Chairman Steve Lake stated 'Dave Woodcock has been a great friend to the club in often carrying out last minute pitch inspections. He never wants more than a bar of chocolate for doing this but always remains independent in his decision making. Today he agreed with Pete Bridgewater in determining the game was playable and his decision proved sensible with Pegasus players commenting on how surprised they were that the pitch was playable after the Friday we had all experienced'.

Tomorrows Fixture & The Season So Far - 11th January

John McMahon is almost certainly ruled out of the game with Pegasus tomorrow with a foot injury he sustained against Carterton and Stuart Douglas misses the game with a one-match suspension via the totting up process. Promising youngster Lee Moseley returns to the squad.

Manager Andy Lyne comments. "We know we face a really tough game against Pegasus on Saturday. Every manager in the league knows that they are dangerous opponents and when at full strength and on their game they can beat anyone."

"We have to hope they have a bad day and that we continue to perform with a decent level of consistency."

On this seasons Premier League campaign so far Lyne adds. "Things are certainly getting interesting at the top of the table and we are battling away trying to hang on in there by our bootlaces!!. Losing three of our first four games left us with a mountain to climb and we can scarcely afford to have too many more slips if we are to achieve a top four finish."

On the current 'in form' teams Lyner believes." Everyone will have their own opinion on who is the best team in the division, based around their own games against them or games they’ve watched. Almondsbury have had a terrific start to the season but like all teams they will have the odd blip or dip in form. It’s up to everyone else to keep applying the pressure on them and to make sure we all win when they lose or draw. "

Amongst his worthy peers, Lyne gives 'acko-lade' to one old sparring partner. " If the season were to stop now though one thing is for certain, my old mate Acko (Gary Ackling) would be walking away with the manager of the year trophy tucked nicely under his arm. What a magnificent job he has done at Milton eh?"

Blanketmen Work With Mills - 5th January

Andy Lyne has reached an agreement with Mark Collier, Manager of Swindon Supermarine, for JP Mills to return to Witney for a second loan spell.

JP first came to fruition at Swindon Town and then Oxford United before eventually signing for Southampton. After being released by the Saints he joined Weston Super Mare, then Swindon Supermarine.  Perth, Australia was his next port of call and he spent eleven months there playing for Floreat Athena, who are in the Western Australia State Premier Division. On returning he played for Chippenham Town and at the end of last season Didcot Town.

JP is a tenacious and hard working player who will always give 100%. He has good vision and prefers to play in midfield where he can come on to the play and set up the opportunities for the forwards. He will also look to get forward to contribute with the odd goal or two.

Manager Andy Lyne said “ it was good of Mark to let us use JP and with Chris Johnson having left for Ardley the timing turned out well, in terms of numbers and options in our midfield. JP made a massive contribution to the success I enjoyed at Wantage Town and I know he will bring strength and determination to an already combative midfield. Hopefully he will also provide that extra bit of craft and guile

Where Are They Now? - 2nd January 2008

Former Blanketman Jamie Cook came back to haunt one of his old club's, Oxford United, with a brilliant goal plus a penalty to bring the U's New Year's heartache yesterday in the Blue Square Premier League.

Cook, who a year ago was playing for Sport Italia Hellenic League side Witney United after trying his luck as a professional golfer, teed the ball up 40 yards out and then hit a glorious five-iron-like drive over United keeper Billy Turley.

It was the first of Cook's two goals in a couple of minutes as Crawley Town beat Darren Patterson's Oxford United team 2-0 in the Blue Square Premier.

To cap a dire start to 2008 for 'Patto', he has now lost his skipper Barry Quinn for Saturday's home match against Altrincham because the defender saw red for a professional foul on Jon-Paul Pittman, which brought Cook his second goal from the penalty spot.

Patterson said: "It was one piece of magic, and a mistake and bit of madness by Quinny, who's otherwise been excellent for me and one of our most consistent players.

"It's all the more galling that Cook is from Witney. We don't have anybody in our team with the vision and quality to do something like he did with that first goal."

Crawley boss Steve Evans also described Cook's opener as "magical". "He has got a special talent," he said. "He could easily be playing at Championship level, the only thing is that you have to 'love him up'. He needs encouragement."

Oxford United fans hardly need reminding that Cook can play at Championship level. He did just that for them a decade ago, memorably scoring one of the goals when Oxford beat Manchester City 2-0 at Maine Road.

Cook has been with Crawley since the start of this season, but moved from Witney United to Rushden & Diamonds in January last year. His tenure at Witney began at the start of season 2005 - 2006, he appeared in 66 Hellenic League Premier Division and Cup fixtures scoring 39 times.

Then manager Spencer Keyes broke the news of his move from Witney at the time with mixed emotions. "It goes without saying that everybody at Witney wishes Cookie well and hope that it works out for him. If it doesn’t he will return to Witney as I know how much he has enjoyed his time here. From a personal view I am absolutely delighted for him, it has been fantastic having him in our side, and he has been a massive influence on the rest of the team both on and off the pitch."

When he joined Witney it was muted that he had become disillusioned with football and wanted to try his fortunes at golf, it seems that his time with the Blanketmen has helped to re-kindle his passion for football.

Witney United Recruitment - 14th December

Sport Italia Hellenic League Premier Division Witney United FC are recruiting to fill Commercial Manager & Sports/Physio Therapist vacancies within this forward thinking club.

Commercial Manager
Part-Time Commission Only Basis
Witney United Football Club has a strong brand name as a community football club in West Oxfordshire and is committed to providing football from Senior down to Junior levels.

As Commercial Manager you would have a free range to promote the club and its facilities, products etc within Oxfordshire and would be our key link with the business world in this fast growing, thriving and popular market town. Commission rates are negotiable but have previously averaged 25% on new business and 20% on all renewals.

Anybody interested should contact Steve Lake in the first instance by email on stephen.lake3@btinternet.com

Club Sports/Physio Therapist
Witney United Football Club are looking to recruit a Club Sports/Physio Therapist to work predominantly with the First Team but would also be required to work with other teams at the club as and when needed mainly through an injury/rehab clinic.

Applicants should have as a minimum an FA Level Two (Treatment and Management of Injuries) Sports Injury qualification or similar (as accepted by the FA) and should also hold an appropriate First Aid qualification.
Anybody interested should contact Steve Lake in the first instance by email on stephen.lake3@btinternet.com

‘Macca’ staying With Blanketmen - 6th December

Andy Lyne, manager of Sport Italia Hellenic premier club Witney United is pleased that skipper John McMahon has decided against joining BGB Business Southern League club Abingdon United.

Lyne said: “I gave Abingdon permission to speak to Macca immediately we received their approach, as they have been fair and good to us this season and also because we have an important game at Shortwood coming up and we want it sorted before the weekend. It has always been my belief that players and managers should all try and work at the highest level that their ability allows. We have taken players from other clubs this season and indeed people have come in and taken some of ours. That is the nature of the game and unfortunately the more successful you are as a team the more it draws attention to your club”!

He continued: “On the injury front we are optimistic that both Luke Brandon and Jimmy Griffin will be fit to face Shortwood, although Griff had a minor set back and missed training last night. Chris Johnson took part in the full session last night and we are waiting now to see what reaction, if any, he has had. Meanwhile striker Lewis Brownhill has an MRI scan on his knee booked in for next Monday.

A Witney Fan For Life - 30th November

Witney youngster Jack Barber thought he was in for a normal night when he arrived to watch his beloved Witney United take on Henley Town on Tuesday night.

He got a big surprise though when before the match his favourite player Gary Wickens came over and presented him with a Witney shirt complete with Wickens and 9 on the back as pictured.

It was a great gesture from "The Blanketmen" frontman who has become a firm favourite with the Witney faithful and to cap young Jack's night on scoring his second goal of the evening Gary came over and celebrated it with him.

Witney are certainly building in roads into the potential support from the population of the West Oxfordshire market town, and are a great credit to football at this level with the links they are working to achieve within the community.

Young Jack has a fantastic night to remember, and it's great to see that his team recognise the support he gives them.

Lyne Of Thought - 28th November

After the national sides exit Euro 2008, Witney United manager Andy Lyne's thoughts on the departure of Steve McClaren as England boss, as published in the Oxford Mail.

" It was inevitable that Steve McClaren was going to go after England's exit from Euro 2008. But I got the feeling that many in the media were almost hoping we wouldn't make it against Croatia. The red top papers had their headlines ready, and it was far easier for them to abuse McClaren than it would be to eat humble pie, had he seen us through."

"I felt that some of the England lads showed an element of fear before the game. This was a massive match, and some seemed to come up short due to the occasion."

"If you've ever played in a big game, you will know how the whole day can drain you emotionally and physically before you start! This renders you heavy-legged and that's what it looked like. Add an energy-sapping pitch to that and it was a recipe for disaster."

On his thoughts for a replacement for McClaren, Lyne states, "So now the process begins to find a successor to Steve McClaren and we all have our views. Having had some dealings with Martin O'Neill when I signed Anton Vircavs for Witney from Wycombe, I know how charismatic the man is, but he's not a football politician, and unfortunately that seems to form an integral part of the FA's remit!"

"Unlike many others I do not subscribe to the theory or the mystique that surrounds foreign coaches and managers. Everyone in the game knows that Terry Venables is equal technically and tactically to practically any coach in the world, it is sad that his input appears to have been minimal."

He Went "Adaway" - 23rd November

Witney United's decision to appoint Andy Lyne as manager has brought some added aspects to the club in its quest to gain promotion to the next step of the football ladder.

Lyner is a manager who likes to have an active support team around him and the dedication of scout Jon “Scoop” Adaway takes some beating that’s for sure. Manager Lyne praised the involvement of "Scoop" stating, "Every week we agree a schedule of games that Jon will take in, giving us plenty of time ahead of when we play the respective teams."

Adaway does not just take in a cursory glance at the opposition as Lyne explains. "He (Adaway) usually likes to get two looks at the opposition as close as possible to each other, giving me a good 10 days to assess his report. Non league football is not a precise science, with players and formations changing almost weekly but his reports have helped me greatly down the years and enabled me to prepare my players as well as most. Some managers don’t like to think too much about the opposition but I have always treated every opponent with the greatest of respect and it has served me well over 26 years!"

If Witney offered Air Miles in exchange for road miles traveled, then "Scoop" would be taking in some far off places in his holiday calendar. Lyne added "Last Saturday,he made his usual call in to me at 5.30pm on the dot to give me the run down of Flackwell Heath’s F A Vase victory over Whitehawk. That may not seem any great deal until you have a look at where Whitehawk is on the map! He has now covered over 2500 miles and the season is barely four months in!!

Witney Sign Meade - 21st November

Witney have completed the signing of Abingdon United defender/midfielder Daniel Meade. Meade, who is 18 years old, was considered by many to be unlucky to be released by Oxford United in the summer. He subsequently joined the British Gas South and West Division side along with Andy Younie, who has since moved to Witney also.

Manager Andy Lyne said “ we are delighted to get Daniel onboard. He is a very talented and versatile player. Fitness and athleticism are very much essential requirements of the modern day footballer and Daniel is very much in this mode.

As well as having a good engine he also has good technique and passing ability”.

Youngster Riddy Can Shine - 1st November

Witney United assistant boss Andy Leach says the future looks rosy, if the standard of their youngsters is anything to go by. One such player is Jed Riddy, 17, who scored a brace - his first goals for the club - in their 4-1 midweek Floodlit Cup against Harrow Hill. He keeps his place when they host Shrivenham on Saturday.

Leach said: "Jed has bags of pace and is so robust.We have a lot of young lads knocking on the door. Clubs often look around and pay big money for good strikers, but we seem to have one right under our noses."

Tomorrow sees a run of three home matches in seven days in the league and United will be looking to collect as many points as possible to keep the pressure on the clubs above them.

Shrivenham have had a mixed start to the season since losing manager Alan Dyton in the summer but have improved of late and always provide a tough test for the Blanketmen and seem to enjoy their trips to Marriotts Stadium having only suffered defeat on one occasion.

Witney will have to give late fitness tests tomorrow to Jon Steedman and Chris Johnson who are both struggling with ankle injuries although it is hoped that both Kevin Lewis and Jermaine Ferreira will be fit again.

Byfield Makes Witney Switch - 19th October

Vinny Byfield is set to make his Witney United debut tomorrow after signing from Sport Italia Hellenic League Premier Division rivals Bicester Town. Byfield signed on the dotted line this week after talks with Witney boss Andy Lyne.

29 year old defender Byfield played previously for Corby Town and Brackley Town in the Southern League and was skipper at Brackley during their Hellenic League days also.

Commenting on the capture Andy Lyne said “ Vinny is a player I have long admired and wanted to work with and I have come close to trying to signing him before. He has is a leader, who has good knowledge and experience at this level and beyond. He’s a good solid defender, both in the air and on the floor and above all else he’s left sided. When we played Bicester recently, I was impressed with the way he handled our striker Gary Wickens, who has been on fire so far this season.”

Ironically Byfield stopped United's recent winning run in the league with his controversial equaliser in the 2-2 draw when he appeared to punch the ball into the net.

Bicester boss Tim Fowler admitted that losing Byfield was a blow. "I have known Vinny for a long time," said Fowler. "He was my first signing when I took over as Brackley manager. He told me he was leaving on Wednesday night. He said he had agreed terms, Witney seem to be a very affluent side at the moment. He's a very honest, committed boy. He's a player that a lot of people admire."

Meanwhile, Witney have doubts over Kevin Lewis (calf) for their SBJ Sports Insurance Cup preliminary round tie at home to Letcombe. Lewis Brownhill is awaiting a scan on his injured knee, but Mark Janes (bruised ankle) should be able to take his place in the squad.

Right Sided Player On Loan - 9th October

Witney United have completed the temporary loan of 19 year old Mark Janes from Oxford City.

Janes who can play anywhere down the right hand side is highly regarded by City, who are keen for him to gain valuable first team experience.
Manager Andy Lyne said “We haven’t had enough competition for places along our back line so the opportunity to sign "Janesy" wasn’t one that I could turn down. He is a good athlete who gets up and down well and will be well suited to the way we play. I am grateful to Justin Merritt and Darren Davies who have made this move possible.”

Janes will go straight in the squad for tomorrow night's Floodlit Cup 1st Round tie against Shortwood United at Marriotts Stadium.

Brandon Goes To Witney - 27th September

Sport Italia Premier Division club Witney United have completed the transfer of midfielder Luke Brandon from fellow Premier side Ardley United.

Manager Andy Lyne has long been an admirer of Brandon having taken him to Oxford City from Headington Amateurs a couple of seasons back.

Lyne said " Luke was a real find for me at City and ended up being player of the year. I tried to get him to Witney in the summer but he showed terrific loyalty to Ardley and Manager Dan Still in particular. That is typical of him he is a good character. He is an inspirational player and good team man, who get's up and down and competes well. He has also got good delivery from wide positions and at set pieces."

Lewis Joins Witney - 24th September

Witney United of the Sport Italia Hellenic Premier Division confirm they have completed the signing of Kevin Lewis from BGB Business Southern League club Abingdon United.

26 year old Lewis, who was previously with Carterton, Oxford City and North Leigh is rated by many as one of the best midfield players of his kind in the county.
Manager Andy Lyne said “ I think pretty much everyone in local football acknowledges that Lewey is the best around at what he does. He links the play in the last third well, he scores goals and gets beyond the front two, something that is a rarity amongst midfield players. We are a team in development and I saw Lewey as an integral part of that building process".

Lyne added; "People have come and gone recently as we have striven to get the best balanced squad together that our budget will allow. I don’t expect that it will end here because having lost JP Mills, Ben Border and Mark Odom recently so need to quickly consolidate the squad. With Jemaine Ferreira back from suspension this coming Saturday and Chris Harper back in the not too distant future as well, we are starting to look quite strong”

Changing Room Equipment Needs a Good Home - 5th September

Witney United FC have access to some second hand changing room benching that is very strong in construction and in excellent condition. It is also easy to fit! Free standing centre unit complete with seating and pegs. This is 3m long and so can cater for 10-12 players.

Other bench seating comes in various lengths between 2 and 3 metres. All units also have under seat storage. It’s all hardwood construction and the benches could even be used for dug-outs.

Also available an old but serviceable treatment table (non-folding).

Anyone interested should contact Steve Lake on 07817850027. Please note contact not available from Friday 7th Sept until the 14th.

Persona Cup - 4th August

Today sees the start of the inaugural Persona Cup at Marriotts Stadium as four sides set out to do battle over Saturday and Sunday in the pre-season tournament.
 
First up at 1-00pm will be Abingdon United v Tadley Calleva, Witney know all about United having met them many times in the Hellenic League and they will start the match favourites against their Wessex League Division One opponents. Calleva had an excellent season last year gaining promotion to Division One and losing only two games all season.
 
At 4-00pm it will be the turn of Witney United as we look to continue our impressive pre-season when we enertain relegated Thame United.

Thame had a troublesome season and find themselves in Division One East and were dealt a blow when they lost leading scorer and Player of the Year Nathan Jack. However they too have started pre-season with a victory when they travelled to Buckingham Town winning 2-0.
 
On the team news front Andy Lyne is likely to utilise the majority of the squad over the two days but definitely missing are Mark Simms, Stuart Douglas and Ben Border who are all on holiday. However United fans are likely to get the first glimpse of new signing Jermaine Ferreira as he has returned from holiday. Goalkeeper Chris Webb is also unavailable this weekend so backup keeper Chris Hunter will get a first chance to shine. Injury wise things are looking better for Robert Cruse and Harry Burnley who have both been having treatment and are not far away from a return.
 
The matches will be settled by a penalty shoot out if the scores are level after 90 minutes.
 
Admission for today will be £5 Adults, £3-50 Concessions, £1 Under 16 and for that price you can see both games. If you keep your programme for Sunday you will get in at the reduced rates of Adults £3-50, Concessions £2, Under 16 FREE and again that will cover both games.

The Legends Amass - 31st July

Witney are proudly hosting the charity game between the Arsenal Ex-Professional and Celebrity X1 and the Oxfordshire Non-League legends.

It falls upon Witney manager Andy Lyne to select a respectable squad and before any shouts of nepotism!!… Lyne says "I have to say, in my defence, that I was asked to do the job at the back end of last season before I took over at Witney.
It’s difficult to put together a balanced selection for such a game because the rules stipulate that you have to have a number of players over a certain age in your squad."

"The trouble is it’s hard to find many ex players who can walk after a certain age let alone run!!! Everyone will have their own opinions as to who and what constitutes legend status but I have tried to encompass as many geographical parts of the county and era’s as is physically possible!"

Amongst those who have accepted my invitation are current Witney coach Andy Leach (Oxford City,Witney, Marlow ),former Oxford United and Witney defender Roy Clark. Midfielders Paul Spittle (Oxford United, Oxford City, Abingdon Town) Terry “Mad Dog” Merriman (Wimbledon, Coventry, Windsor, Witney) Terry is still the only player to put Graham Roberts on his ars* in a 50-50 tackle, Shaun Bradbury (Oxford City, Witney) Paul Hackett (Aylesbury) and current Bicester Manager and former Banbury United stalwart Tim Fowler as well as former Witney Town midfielder Mark Gee of course currently in charge of North Leigh and former Town defender/striker Peter Hutter who graced the colours of Aylesbury United also.

Former Witney strike legends Kenny “The King” Clarke (Oxford City, Marlow) and Carl Henry (AFC Wallingford, Abingdon United) will be teaming up, along with one of this county’s all time prolific goalscorers Ian Concannon (Oxford United, Oxford City, Didcot Town). As well as Conners, from the more recent of times we will have Justin Merritt (Watford, Aylesbury, Thame, Oxford City), Rich Peirson (Oxford City, Chesham, Abingdon United) and Mark O’Hara (Witney, Abingdon United, Highworth, Hungerford).Whilst from the Oxon/Berks border we have two legendary Alfredians in Glyn Austin and John Culley.
Alan Judge will hopefully be appearing between the sticks. Judgey had a lengthy professional career at Luton, Reading and Oxford before playing over 100 games at Hereford. He actually played for Oxford at the age of 44, helping them out in a keeping crisis. He has also played locally for Chipping Norton, Brackley, Didcot and Banbury and is currently coach at Southern League Abingdon United. He will hopefully be joined by fellow ex-pro, former Chelsea and Oxford United star Peter Rhodes-Brown.

"Rosie of course had a good non-league career locally with Abingdon Town and Oxford City, as well as a period as both player and Manager of Marlow. I will also be assisted by a local celebrity which we will be able to announce over the next couple of days as well as a couple of local celebrities who will be pulling on the colours!! "

New Addition At Witney - 31st July
Witney announce a new addition to Andy Lyne's backroom staff at Marriott's Stadium as Marcus "Eric" Brown (left) has agreed to join the club.

Eric was at Wantage Town when Andy Lyne was involved there. He also had an involvement with Abingdon Town and more recently Milton United, where he was Reserve Team Manager during two thirds of the season.

Andy Lyne said of the latest addition " Eric is used to being around me and knows the way I like to work. He is "multi-skilled" and prepared to lend his hand to just about anything for the cause, more importantly he loves the game."

"He's an ebullient character, so his enthusiasm and energy in and around the dressing room will be a big boost for us all".

More Witney Signings - 26th July

Sport Italia Hellenic Premier side Witney United announc they have completed the signing of 24 year old Jemaine Ferreira (left) who spent last season with Southern League Abingdon United.

The skilful midfielder/striker is no stranger to Witney having made his Southern League debut at Witney as a mere 15 year old schoolboy back in 1998. He has subsequently had productive spells at Oxford City, Maidenhead, Thame and Brackley. Welcoming him back to Witney, Manager Andy Lyne said " Jermaine and me go back a long way, he was a member of the successful Garsington Boys under 15 side that I coached, along with the likes of Stuart Douglas, Danny Morgan and Kamran Abbassi.  I gave him his Southern League baptism of fire- I actually had to go and get his headmasters permission for him to play against Folkestone!. He has good feet and a nice change of pace and has developed into a very good non league player. I'm sure he will prove a huge success for us this season".

United also confirmed that two more of last season's squad have resigned for the club with both Mark Odom and Neil Maskell putting pen to paper.  Lyne was equally pleased with this double signature "I am delighted both these guys have put pen to paper,both have really got their heads down and worked hard in pre-season and I’m delighted they have taken up the challenge that has been placed before them."

Gunners Legends at Witney? - 13th July Witney United Football Club is today pleased to announce a major charity event which will be hosted at Marriotts Stadium. On Sunday 2nd September there will be a football match between  a  Fox FM Oxfordshire Non-League Legends X1 and Arsenal Legends and Celebrities X1 with monies raised going towards Arsenal’s own charity (The Arsenal Foundation ) and also the club’s own supported charity Help an Oxfordshire Child, based at Fox FM which raises money for children's causes throughout Oxfordshire. The Oxfordshire Legends X1 will be managed by Andy Lyne and he is hoping to include a few local celebrities including personalties from Fox FM. Event organiser Mark Reid said he was looking for the event to be a major fundraiser for the charities.

“It is going to be an excellent day and whilst at this time we cant commit to names for the Arsenal squad, in the past they have used players such as Steve Williams and Chris Whyte and celebrities who have also taken part are those such as Phil Daniels (Quadrophenia and Eastenders), Joe Swash (Eastenders) pictured in the Arsenal Kit, TV DIY’s Tommy Walsh. and Ralf Little from the Royal Family" It won’t just be about the football as this will be a family day out with plans for a funfair, bouncy castle, face painting and lots more for the kids.” Nick Streeter, Charity Manager, Help An Oxfordshire Child was equally enthusiastic about the day, " Help An Oxfordshire Child is very grateful to be involved in and benefit from what promises to be a fantastic occasion for football fans throughout the area whilst raising money for a great cause," Meanwhile sponsors are urgently required for the game with those involved getting full branding opportunities and involved in publicity around the event. Anybody interested should email markreid@witneyunited.co.uk for more details. Ticket details and further news regarding the game will be released in the coming weeks

More Strength for Witney United - 12th July Witney United manager Andy Lyne has completed the signing of vastly experienced midfielder Jimmy Griffin for the clubs Sport Italia Hellenic Premier squad for the coming season.   Griffin has over 150 Southern League games to his credit, amassed with Yate Town, Bracknell Town and Swindon Supermarine. Commenting on this capture Manager Andy Lyne said “ I tried to sign Jimmy at the start of last season whilst I was at Oxford City but he chose to go to Swindon Supermarine, which was understandable given that he lives in that area. He subsequently did move to City later in the season and by all accounts did a very steady job for them. He is a proven player who knows his job and does it consistently well week in week out. Everywhere he has played he has given value for money and is well regarded by all his previous clubs and their supporters but perhaps more importantly the players who he played alongside. He is a very hard worker and a good character that will fit in well with the lads we already have at the club.”

It's Chico Time At Witney - 6th July It will be a case of Chico Time at Marriott's Stadium next season as Sport Italia Hellenic Premier side Witney United unveiled their latest signings on Thursday evening. Midfielder Chico Manjavacas (left) has joined the club having just moved to the area having previously been with Radcliffe Olympic in the Central Midlands League. Andy Lyne said Chico had earnt the chance “Chico has settled in well, worked hard to integrate himself with the other players and has fully earned his chance to be a member of this season’s squad" Also joining the Witney ranks was goalkeeper Chris Hunter who has played the majority of his football in the League of Wales and will provide back up for Chris Webb.

More Sign on at Witney - 5th July

Two of last season’s players have signed on with Sport Italia Hellenic Premier club Witney United having agreed terms with the club.
 
Harry Burnley ironically joined United from Oxford City where he was signed by Andy Lyne, who was happy to be working with him again. “Harry is a player who has won the Hellenic League twice and has a Spartan League championship medal also. He has a good scoring ratio for a wide player and also provides us with another option up front if needs be.”

Also committing himself to United was another wide man, Ben Border, who put pen to paper. “I have tried to sign Ben on a couple of previous occasions in his career, so I am pleased to be able to work with him now. He has great quality in the oppositions final third, where he can see a pass or box it early and well.”

New Players Join Witney Cause - 2nd July Sport Italia Hellenic Premier club Witney United has announced  they have completed the signing of former Didcot Town goalkeeper Chris Webb.  Manager Andy Lyne has taken the opportunity to secure the services of Webb after the big keeper had to stop playing Southern League football because of time commitments.  Webb who played 118 matches for Didcot Town has twice won the Hellenic Premier Division with Swindon Supermarine and latterly with Didcot. He was also between the sticks for Didcot historic FA Vase victory.   Lyne said of his new signing "Chris is brave; he has good height and a strong physical presence, qualities that are essential in a goalkeeper. He is another player to join us who has won things at this level and knows what it takes to do so. It is a massive plus to get him to sign for Witney"

Andy Lyne made a further raid on Oxford City last week when he confirmed that he snapped up pacey striker Chris Harper. Harper, who came on as substitute against United in the Oxfordshire Senior Cup last season, were his pace and power changed the game totally as Witney lost their 1-0 lead.   Lyne was again delighted with his latest capture “Harps has worked extremely hard to get back to full fitness after sustaining a bad knee injury and returned to the City team towards the end of last season. He is a quick and mobile front man who puts defenders under pressure and does one of the most important jobs in football-he stops the ball coming back at you easily. Top that with the fact that he is a good finisher and you have a very good acquisition on your hands." It was busy on the signings front with a number of last years squad also putting pen to paper .

Persona Cup Tournament - 2nd July The draw has been made for the Persona Cup Four Team Tournament which will be held at Marriotts Stadium on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th August.  The semi-finals on the Saturday  will see Abingdon United play Tadley Calleva and then in the second match Witney United will meet Thame United  for a place in the Final. On the Sunday there will be the 3rd and 4th place play-off and then the final with kick off times still to be finalised. Admission prices will be set at £5 for adults including a programme, £3-50 for concessions and £1 for Under 16's with Under 12's getting in free with an accompanied adult. Any persons wishing to come to both days will get their Sunday admission at half-price on showing of the match programme from the Saturday. The tournament is being backed by a new local company Persona Print who are based in Woodstock who already provide value for money clothing and printing to various Hellenic League teams. Witney United Chairman Steve Lake holding the Persona Cup  (left).

Glynn is the Tonic for United - 15th June   Witney United have completed their sixth new signing of the summer when they swooped for midfielder Matty Glynn.   Glynn is an experienced campaigner who has been at Slough Town, Aylesbury United and more recently Oxford City and manager Andy Lyne was delighted with his capture.   "Matty has a proven track record at a high level of non league football. He is a quality midfield player with good touch and vision. His delivery at set pieces will be a real plus for us this season"

New Youth Team Jumps on Board - 5th June
Witney United is pleased to announce they will be fielding an U17 team in the Oxfordshire Football Association’s Invitation League for this forthcoming season.

This opportunity comes about through the desire of last year’s North Oxford Youth FC U16 Team to link up with United. They will continue to be managed by Kevin Jones who will have Robert Bowerman alongside him still as Assistant Manager and Fitness Coach.
 
Paul Bircher (United’s U18s General Manager) said ‘This is a great move for Witney United as it will create a pool of ready made players to feed into our Allied Counties side as well as extending the number of teams within the Witney United ‘family’’.
Bircher went on to say ‘Last year showed what a talented bunch of players are coming our way as they finished 3rd in their league and won the U16s Cup’.
 
United hope to field two teams in the OFA Invitation League as last year’s talented U15s have applied to compete at the U16 level. Joint managers Tom Amer and Wayne Oakey are also pleased to announce that the ex-Witney Town and United favourite Darren Teggart has joined the coaching staff.

Wickens Becomes the Fifth!! - 4th June

Witney United confirm that they agreed terms with their fifth new face of the season as they swooped for Gary Wickens from Didcot Town.

Wickens was with Southern League Didcot Town last season and before that skipper at Brackley Town.  He also has Hellenic League experience gained in spells at Bicester Town and Ardley United and joins new faces Lewis Craker, Andy Marriott, Liam Illsley and Jon Steedman.

Manager Andy Lyne was delighted with his latest capture , he said; “Gary is quick, strong and particularly useful in the air. He also has a good eye for goal and is a real handful of a player who gets in defenders faces. We believe that he will give us a good blend and something totally different to what we have.  Above all else he is a real winner and is good in and out of the dressing room.”

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