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Daily Visitors Total From 10th June 2004 |
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Return Of The 5 - 5th March
Ascot should be boosted by the return of no fewer than five first team regulars for tomorrows Hellenic Premier Division trip to old foes Marlow United.
The relegation-threatened Yellamen finally saw their five-match unbeaten run come to an end on Wednesday evening courtesy of a 1-0 defeat at home to fifth place Witney United. However, Ascot were without goalkeeper David Lyons, central defenders Nick Curtis and Paul McGrotty, skipper Tim Standing and attackers Andy Lunn and Rob Saunders for that match. Amazingly all six were suspended for the visit of last season's Premier Division runners-up.
But with the exception of Standing, who was sent off in last month's draw with Oxford City Nomads, the experienced players should all be available to slot back into the United team for Saturday's trip to Marlow.
The Buckinghamshire side are no strangers to the Yellamen having been Reading Senior Division rivals before both clubs secured two promotions into the Hellenic Premier Division. It was Marlow who Ascot beat 5-2 to claim the 2006 Reading Senior Cup, still one of the proudest moments in the club's history. The sides drew 1-1 at the Racecourse Ground earlier this season.
On Wednesday evening the under-strengthed Ascot side performed remarkably well against their high-flying opponents.
Jeff Lamb was particularly impressive at the back as the Yellamen went down to a lone 46th minute strike by Witney's Chris Harper.
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Hands Of Fate - 26th February
Stuart Scammell believes Ascot's Hellenic Premier Division fate is in their own hands after another excellent result away at Witney made it five games unbeaten for the Yellamen.
Hosts Witney had won eight games in a row at the Polythene UK Stadium and had scored in 22 consecutive matches stretching back to early October leading into the contest. But a workmanlike display from Scammell's side secured a priceless 0-0 draw, which keeps United six points and three places clear of the drop zone.
Teams below have up to seven games in hand on the Yellamen. But after picking up two wins and three draws in their last five games to move clear of danger, Scammell is convinced his side have survival in their sights. He said: "It is all about us now. We are not worrying about anyone else's results. We sat down a few weeks ago and figured out what we need to do to stay in this division and the sort of run we are on is exactly what we needed. We needed to pull our fingers out and become more competitive in this division and we are starting to show that we have done that. We set a target and the guys have responded brilliantly. They know what is required and I couldn't really ask for more from them. Their attitude has been first class. Witney have been beating teams for fun recently, especially at home. So to get a result there is massive. It is just a shame that we don't have a fixture this Saturday because we want to keep the momentum going."
Scammell added on last Saturdays game "We lined up the same way we always do in a 4-4-2, but I told the boys to be a bit more mindful of their defensive responsibilities and not to give anything away. I'm sure people will point the finger at us and say we were boring, but there is not a team in the league who would not take that result at Witney."
Ascot, without a fixture tomorrow, will be reunited with Witney next Wednesday evening at the Racecourse Ground in United's next fixture. Scammell is expecting a more free-flowing game and admits it is one he is looking forward to. He said: "I think it will be a different game. The surface there made things awkward, but the Racecourse is in pristine condition. It allows teams to get the ball down and play if they want to. Witney are a very effective footballing side and I think they will come and try to play. When the fixtures came out at the start of the season the games against the perennial frontrunners in this division, the likes of Witney and Shortwood are the ones you look at and get excited about. Those games are what it is all about. We have worked so hard to get to this level and we will do everything we can to make sure we have more games against these sides next season."
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Manager Surprised! - 19th February
 Ascot manager Stuart Scammell admits his side's recent wins over Highworth Town and Flackwell Heath have even been a bit of a surprise to him.
After beating Highworth 3-1 at the Racecourse Ground last Wednesday evening, the Yellamen made it six points out of six with an entertaining 5-3 win over the Heathens on Saturday.
United have now gone unbeaten in four games to move seven points clear of the Hellenic Premier Division relegation zone. Whist Scammell feels their current purple patch is long over due, he thinks it is just what is needed to keep them in the division. He said: "I'm feeling glad that we've finally put together a little run of results. It's long over due if I'm honest, but I think it's been threatening to happen for some time now. We have had to put in an awful lot of hard work and the players have always been willing to put in the effort on the training ground. They have been working to our instructions and that is starting to show in our results. Like most managers I've had a look at the fixtures to figure out how many points I think we can pick up for the rest of the season. I would be lying if I said that I had Highworth Town and Flackwell Heath down as wins, I didn't. Those points are bonuses for us, but they were thoroughly deserved."
Despite United leaping up to 16th place in the table, they are not out of the woods yet as Malmesbury Victoria and Carterton have a whopping six games in hand. But Scammell feels his side are giving themselves more than a fighting chance of beating the drop. He said: "It would have been great to have put together this sort of run in August and September, but this season has been a real learning curve for us. I was quite open about our aim for the season and that was to establish ourselves at this level and do everything we can to stay in the division. Our aims have not changed and these results have improved our chances as well as showing that we can compete at this level. There is still a long way to go, but we are certainly going in the right direction."
Things do not get any easier for United this weekend as they take on sixth placed Witney United. Scammell added: "What we know about them is that they are a team that is always there or there abouts. There are no gimmes in this league, and Saturday will be anything but that."
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Consistency - 5th February
Stuart Scammell has warned his Ascot United players to stop 'blowing hot and cold' if they want to move away from the Hellenic Premier Division drop zone
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Jeff Lamb grabbed a stoppage time equaliser to complete a fine comeback for the Yellamen as they fought out a 2-2 draw at Oxford City Nomads last weekend. But while Scammell hailed his side's resilience in snatching the draw, he was equally concerned at the woeful first half performance that saw them staring down the barrell of a 19th defeat of the season.
He said: "I was pleased with the attitude of the guys and the way we played in the second half to get the point. But we were very poor in the first period, made two bad mistakes for the goals and that meant we had to dig in for the second half. We really need to stop blowing hot and cold. It's not good enough to only start playing in the second half. We need to make sure we are right at it from the word go, because then we will have the chance to get the win in these sort of games."
Grabbing a point from the clash against Nomads did at least provide a confidence boost for Ascot as they go into one of their biggest games of the season so far this weekend. Scammell's men travel to fellow strugglers Carterton, who sit a place and four points below them - although they still have a massive seven games in hand on the side from the Racecourse.
Tomorrow, with a win, could see Ascot establish a seven-point cushion on their hosts, as well move them out of the relegation zone. Scammell was quick to acknowledge the importance of the clash, he said: "We know where we are and what we need to do, there's no point in saying we are not looking at the situation because of course we are. It's your stereotypical six-pointer, but we go into the game after pushing Wantage, who are chasing the title, very close last week, and getting a draw with Oxford, who I have acknowledged are one of the better footballing sides in the league. We're also at full strength for the game. Jon Bennett came through a reserve game at the weekend and scored, so he should be ready. We'll also have Rob Saunders back after his ban. It was only three games but because of the weather it has run from December 12 to February 6, I've never known anything like it. But having Rob back is a massive boost for the whole team, especially for a game like this."
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Another Lay-Off - 22nd January
After playing just one game in more than a month Ascot United are facing another 10-day lay-off, but it is not because of the weather this time.
The vagaries of the Hellenic Premier Division fixture list mean that the Yellamen have this Saturday off as a free weekend.
This means that while most teams will be looking to get back into the swing of things and back to full match fitness, Stuart Scammell's side will once again be sat around twiddling their thumbs.
Before Tuesday United were the only side in all three divisions of the Hellenic League to successfully host a game this year. However, they have still been badly hit by the snow, with five fixtures being postponed. United were set to play their second game of the year on Wednesday evening at the Racecourse Ground, however the home match against Ardley United was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch.
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Boss Itching For Football - 15th January
Stuart Scammell is itching to get back to action after enjoying three weeks away from the game. While the arctic conditions have been wreaking havoc on the Hellenic League fixture list, the United boss has been enjoying a winter break in Dubai.
But while the soaring temperatures in the Arab state have been a far cry from the current cold snap. Scammell admits the time away has not allowed him to erase the memories of his last game in charge.
On December 12th an Ascot side containing four reserve team players were denied a point from their 230-mile round trip to Pegasus Juniors as a controversial late goal gave the hosts a 2-1 win. Scammell needs a game on Saturday to help him to get over it. He said: "I've got a hell of a football itch. I haven't had a game since December 12th and after such a gutting defeat in deepest Hereford, that is too far for me. I'm just praying we get a game on Saturday, but you just never know. I'm absolutely terrible. I have only missed one game in about five years, so I was a bit apprehensive about going away. But with the weather I only missed one game, and how they got that one on I'll never know."
United's January 2nd clash at home to runaway leaders Reading was the only game in all three divisions of the Hellenic League to beat the weather this year. Scammell was full of praise for the club's ground staff in getting the game on and says his side played well, despite ultimately going down 3-0. He said: "I think that's credit to the hard work that a lot of people have been putting in over the last year on the pitch. You reap what you sow as they say. I think we'll find when the snow clears we'll have one of the best pitches in the league under there. All the reports I've heard about our performance that day have been very positive. They are the team to beat in this league, so losing to them is not disgrace and I'm told we competed well throughout."
Despite getting off to a slow start in their first season at step five of the non-league pyramid, United showed marked improvement in the tail end of 2009. Scammell hopes to see his side build on that in the new year. He said: "We set a target within the squad at the beginning of the season and I am still keeping to that, even it is looking a bit stretched after a poor start. I would like that think that in about eight to 10 weeks we will be in a much healthier situation. If you look back at the history of this team, we have had one big run every season. It has never come at the same stage of the season, but it always comes. Everything about the way we were playing before Christmas indicates we are about to do that again. I'm hoping that I won't be looking over my shoulder at the end of the season and worrying what is going on behind us. The plus from our point of view is that at the moment, having played more games than anyone else, we are not starring down the barrel of having two and three games a week, which some clubs are."
Saturday's trip to third-placed Wantage Town is now postponed, but Scammell says he saw nothing in the Oxfordshire side's 1-0 win at the Racecourse Ground in September that suggests his side have anything to fear. He said: "We saw Wantage at the Racecourse earlier this season and they beat us 1-0, but to be honest it was an open game and I didn't think there was much between the two sides. Judging by their results they have come on leaps and bounds since then and may have a completely new team as far as we know. But we have improved a lot since then too, so if they get a game on, we'll be going there to win. We always prepare as if the game is on until the call comes through to tell us it is definitely off. I'm thankful that we have got a good group of guys, who I'm sure will have been staying fit. They are all gym users so have no concerns about their fitness."
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Gavin Eyes Revenge - 25th December
Former Ascot United skipper Andy Gavin is keeping his fingers crossed that tomorrows hotly anticipated derby clash with local rivals Binfield survives the weather conditions.
 The United stalwart, now reserve team boss at the Racecourse Ground, will be in charge for the fixture in the absence of manager Stuart Scammell. Gavin, who led the Yellamen to their historic Reading Senior Cup triumph at the Madejski Stadium in 2006, reports that the United squad are buoyant after reversing their Hellenic Premier Division fortunes over the last two months.
However he fears the Boxing Day fixture at Stubbs Lane could go the same way as last Saturday's home clash against Highworth Town which was one of 42 games in the Hellenic League to fall victim to the weather. He said: "It is a bit frustrating because with the weather it is difficult to see too many pitches being playable on Saturday. Even if the snow does melt, you feel the pitches will get waterlogged, or be too icy. It's a shame because this weekend we have got a good squad to choose from, we are looking very good in terms of number. This weekend and last weekend we had a lot of players available, so hopefully we can get the game on."
Having moved out of the relegation zone recently with wins over Bicester and Fairford, Gavin believes things are going in the right direction at the club. He said: "Confidence is massive in football. Earlier in the season confidence was low and things were not quite going for us. Little things just go wrong when confidence is low like passes going astray and people not timing their runs properly. A few new signings have come in and brought a bit more quality to the squad, but they've also given everyone a confidence boost. Everyone is flying now and looking forward to every game." Having suffered at the hands of Binfield on several occasions as a player over the years Gavin is relishing the chance to get a bit of revenge over Steve McClurg's side if the game goes ahead. He said: "I played against Binfield in the Berks & Bucks Cup last month. They won in extra time and we came away feeling we could have nicked it. It would be good to get one back over them for that, and for all the other wins they've had against us over the years. I hope the game is on and I'm sure there will be a bumper crowd there if it is."
Several of the United reserve squad featured in Ascot's last league game, a 2-1 reverse at Pegasus. And reserve team boss, Gavin, was not surprised to hear his players getting rave reviews from first team manager Scammell. He said: "This season we've had to use more reserve team players in the first team than we ever have before. It's been absolutely manic, if you look at the league table you can see we've still played a lot more games than everyone else. It has been no surprise to me that the lads who have gone in there and got their chance have done really well. That is what everyone wants. Everyone in the reserves wants to push on and make it into the first team."
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Happy Or Sad? - 11th December
Stuart Scammell didn't know whether to happy or sad this week after his Ascot side were held to a 1-1 draw at the Racecourse Ground by fellow strugglers Malmesbury Victoria.
Scammell felt his side threw away two points against the visitors from Wiltshire. But, having lost 6-1 to them earlier in the season, the United boss was delighted by the continued improvement showed by his Hellenic Premier Division newboys.
He said: "It was very disappointing really. I felt we dominated the game and it was certainly a case of two points dropped rather than one point gained. We played some good football and created opportunities to win the game and we kept them fairly quite. But the fact that we are disappointed after a good performance, against a side who beat us convincingly at the start of the season, that is an achievement in itself. It shows how far we have come in a relatively short period of time.
"We are now able to go into games looking to compete at this level, no matter who we are playing."
Having been hit hard by injury and unavailability this term, the United boss is hoping to see last Saturday's defensive unit put a run of games together. He said: "The defence looked watertight. The penalty was a silly mistake, but other than that we didn't give them anything all game. Our back four were not really troubled at all. It is no secret that I have played far too many players this year because of injury and unavailability. We've been screaming for a bit of consistency. If we can keep those guys fit and patch up a few of the guys that are on the treatment table, we will be in good shape. Defensively we have struggled a bit this year, there is no hiding from that. But on Saturday we looked very assured and very solid."
Another positive to come out of last weekend's game was the appearance of former Bracknell Town striker Dean Thomas, who made his United debut after a short spell with Reading Town. With frontman Simon Knight a long-term injury doubt and Andy Lunn and Jon Bennett both not 100 per cent fit, Scammell is delighted with his latest acquisition. He said: "Dean Thomas started on the bench and came on at half-time and did really well. He was a bit unlucky not to score. He hit the woodwork and had a couple of decent efforts. He is a player that has impressed me every time I have seen him play. I know what we are going to get from him and I'm delighted to be able to bring in someone like him. He is an experienced striker who will score goals for us, but he also gets involved with the link-up play and we can play through him. Given our injuries at the moment, he is exactly the kind of player I was looking to bring in.He is a good lad and he has fitted straight in."
Lunn played through the pain barrier against Malmesbury last week, but could be missing for the gruelling Christmas period which sees the Yellamen take on Pegasus Juniors and Highworth Town over the next two weekends, before big Berkshire derbies with rivals Binfield and high-flying Reading Town. Now the main focus is on tomorrow's 230-mile round-trip to Pegasus, who United beat 2-0 earlier in the season. Scammell is looking for his side to complete the double against the mid-table side. He said: "Pegasus are not a million miles away from us. Geographically a distance, but not in the table. What we are looking to do is get points on the board and pull as many sides as possible into the battle at the bottom of the table. We are looking at it in the same way we looked at the games against Fairford and Malmsbury and Bicester. Obviously every game is important in the league, but these are the ones that will really shape our season and that we go into looking to win."
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Mystery Signing? - 4th December
Stuart Scammell is hoping to add an experienced striker to his Ascot squad ahead of tomorrows massive relegation six-pointer against Malmesbury Victoria.
The Yellamen have been hit by injuries to regular front men Jon Bennett, Andy Lunn and Simon Knight over the last two weeks, but Scammell is confident of adding a goalscorer with Southern League experience to his squad before Saturday. He said: "We have lost three or four strikers all at once so we are a bit light on options there at the moment. Andy Lunn is out with what likes like a hernia. Jon Bennett has a foot injury and Simon Knight's has a shoulder problem. Bennett has an outside chance of making the weekend, but the other two are more 'wait and see' and we could be looking at the new year. Richard Mills made his first start after coming back from injury on Saturday, which is great, but he is a few games off full fitness so I'm looking at bringing somone in. We have been speaking to someone and I am confident of getting the deal done in time for Saturday."
Scammell was keeping tight-lipped over the identity of the striker until the deal is completed, but he added: "He is the kind of striker who will score goals for us. We have been creating a lot of chances and not really been putting them away. Zack Spencer has played a few games for us and young Tom Semadini scored a crucial goal a few weeks ago, but it is a bit too much to expect either of them to take on the role as the main striker. The player we are talking to is exactly the sort of player we need."
TomorrowAscot host a Victoria side who have been sucked into the relegation zone in recent weeks, but Scammell has warned his team against complacency. He said: "We are approaching the game in exactly the same way we did our games against Bicester and Kidlington. It's another must-win game if I'm honest and we feel that we've got a point to prove against Malmesbury. They beat us 7-1 in the second game of the season and we feel we need to right all the wrongs from that performance. Nobody likes to get beaten by a score like that at any level, but we feel we are a million miles ahead of where we were as a team then. We've come on leaps and bounds. Those two recent wins gave us that inner confidence and we have always been a team that strives on that."
Despite the Malmesbury's early season demolition of the Yellamen, the Wiltshire side sit just one point above United in the Hellenic Premier Division table. A win for Scammell's side could see them rise three places to 16th in the table and the United boss is now daring to start looking upwards. He said: "After an appalling start we had to improvement a lot, and we have. We are playing with more precision and endeavour and maturity. All of a sudden you look at the league table and two, three or four wins and we could be be right in the mix in mid-table. We've got a couple of games coming up against sides that are in that area just above us and we will go into those full of confidence."
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Gutted After Loss - 27th November
Stuart Scammell admitted he was 'absolutely gutted' to see his side go down to a 2-1 defeat at Flackwell Heath on Tuesday evening.
The improving Yellamen went into the Hellenic Premier Division clash in their best run of form this season, having taken seven points from the last nine. But in echoes of their inconsistent opening to the campaign, two defensive errors saw Scammell's side squander an early lead - and a penalty - as they slipped to defeat.
The boss lamented: "I thought we were great value for a point at least. We went ahead and missed a penalty which would have put us two-up. They had a couple of early chances but didn't bother us at all really. But then we gift-wrapped them two goals, which was disappointing to see because we had got ourselves into a great position and it was something I thought we had got out of our game."
Despite the final scoreline Scammell insisted: "There are lots of positives to take out of the game against a side who were one of the pre-season favourites. We are capable of performing a lot better than we have done and we are starting to demonstrate that now. I was pleased with the display but absolutely gutted to come away with nothing."
On recent signings Scammell believes it is no coincidence that their best run of the season coincided with the arrival Rob Saunders and Rob Gier. He explained: "We were stuck in a bit of a rut and could not buy a goal, but we've added a couple of fresh faces to the group and the positive results have started coming. Rob Saunders is able to give us a bit extra in midfield, while Rob Gier is very experienced and what he brings can't be underestimated. You just hope that it rubs off on the rest of the guys because it is a real benefit to have those sort of players around the squad. But you have to remember it is not just about those two - there are nine other players out there and they have all stepped up in the last few games as well."
Ascot's new-found confidence will be given a stern test this weekend when they travel to in-form Kidlington. The Yellamen were hammered 7-1 at the Racecourse by the Oxfordshire outfit just four weeks ago - the start of a run which has seen them net 22 goals in their last four league games. Scammell is realistic in his expectations for the clash. He admitted: "I'm hoping for a strong positive performance like we have done in the last couple of weeks. As long as we keep doing what we have been doing, we know we are a side who can create chances. It is just a matter of converting them. Realistically they are a strong experienced team at this level, while we are still cutting our teeth. But if we can stay focused and keep doing the right things, we can try and get another positive result."
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International Signing -20th November
Stuart Scammell has pulled off his second sensational transfer coup in three weeks by enticing another former youth team star back to the club.
 Two weeks ago the United boss turned a few heads when he won the race to sign former AFC Wimbledon and Farnborough ace Rob Saunders. And last week the Yellamen welcomed back a full international with more than 100 Football League games under his belt.
Former Wimbledon, Rushden & Diamonds and Aldershot full back Rob Gier (pictured) made his Ascot debut in Saturday's massive 2-1 Hellenic Premier Division victory over fellow-strugglers Bicester. Gier should be available for the next two months before hooking up with the Philippines international squad in the new year. Scammell said: "It would be churlish of me to say that I'm not ecstatic to get in an international player. Rob is a good lad and he is another Ascot boy. He left Grays Athletic at the end of the season and he hasn't been playing for anyone since. He trained with us in pre-season, but then had work commitments. He goes away with the Philippines early next year but should be available before then."
After starring for Ascot's junior teams in the early 90s, Gier was picked up by the Wimbledon Academy and made his first team debut in the Championship in October 2000. He went on to make 71 appearances for the Dons before leaving for League Two Rushden in 2004.Since then he has turned out for a host of clubs in the Football Conference and played 38 times in Aldershot's 2007/08 title-winning season.
Scammell believes Gier's experience could be exactly what the doctor ordered for a United defence that has shipped 53 goals in 19 league games. He said: "We have been creating bucketloads of chances this season, but it is defensively we have been struggling. So obviously bringing in someone like Rob is really going to help us out. His experience speaks for itself."
A win at Bicester last Saturday moved Ascot level on points with Fairford Town, who sit outside the Premier Division relegation zone. Tomorrow the Yellamen travel to the Gloucester side knowing a win will lift them out of the drop zone for the first time since August. Scammell added: "We've picked up four points out of six now, which is exactly what we needed. The table certainly looks better after that. I look at the table now and I think if we can nick three or four wins against the sides just above us, we could move up a few places. We've not played Fairford before, but I've heard some really good reports about them. A number of people have told me they are better than their league position. But if we can go there and focus on our own game with a strong squad of 14 or 15 players we have a good chance of coming away with something."
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Ascot Bouyant - 14th November
Stuart Scammell insists his Ascot side are 'buoyant' ahead of a huge week of league and cup action for the Hellenic Premier Division newcomers.
The Yellamen take on two of their closest relegation rivals either side of a mouth-watering county cup clash with bitter rivals Binfield. Scammell believes last weekend's morale-boosting draw at Shrivenham leaves his side perfectly poised for the make-or-break seven days.
The United boss, who saw his struggling side record only their second clean sheet of the league campaign in Wiltshire on Saturday, said: "I really admire the way the team played last Saturday. We showed a lot of the character we have been looking for all season. It was a really good performance all around. Everyone fought from the very first whistle to the last and there is a good atmosphere around the team. We have played well before this season and let it slip. If we had done that again it would have been really deflating. But instead we are buoyant and have a spring in our step. Now we need to use that as a platform for what is a big few weeks."
Today sees United host second-bottom Bicester, who are still searching for their first win of the campaign and have picked up just two points from their opening 17 matches. Then seven days later the Yellamen travel to Fairford Town, who are currently three points ahead of Scammell's side in the table.
The Ascot United boss added: "The league is starting to take shape now. I am looking at the next few weeks as our own mini league. All the teams below 20 points could be sucked into the relegation zone. If we want ambitions to move up the table, these are the kinds of games we need to be winning. They are the proverbial six -pointers."
Last Saturday Scammell drafted in Slough keeper Jamie Jackson and pushed regular stopper David Lyons into the heart of defence. And his side responded with their second clean sheet of the campaign. Scammell added: "We went there with a bare 12 and only 16-year-old Tom Semadeni from the Allied Counties team on the bench but we gave them a good game. They are a good side and they are a tough nut to crack. Getting the clean sheet was very important. Bringing a six and a half footer, in David, into the back four did the trick. He plays there for his Sunday League side."
Scammell also believes recent signing Rob Saunders has begun to make an impact. "Rob has an infectious personality and the group have all really responded to him."
Next Wednesday Ascot host Binfield in the Berks & Bucks Cup at the Racecourse Ground. Scammell commented: "That competition is hardly priority one for us at the moment. It shouldn't really come on the agenda, but coming up against our friends from down the road makes it a bit more special. We gave them an early Christmas present when they beat us 4-0 in the league earlier in the season, so it would be nice to set the record straight."
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Striker Catalyst - 6th November
 Stuart Scammell believes the sensational signing of former AFC Wimbledon and Farnborough playmaker Rob Saunders (pictured) could be the catalyst needed to change Ascots' fortunes.
Though he has warned that the talented attacker's addition to the squad will count for nothing if the Yellamen keep defending like they did in Saturday's 5-1 Bluefin Insurance Cup defeat against Reading Town. After being released from Zamaretto League Division One (Midlands) Burnham last week, Saunders has spurned interest from a number of higher lever sides to rejoin his boyhood club. He made his debut Saturday's cup defeat against the unbeaten Scours Lane outfit, and Scammell has revealed he is here for the long haul. He said: "He has committed his future to Ascot until the end of the season at least. Rob is a quality player and I have known him for a long time. I was watched him play for AFC Wimbledon in the Conference South, so that shows the calibre of player we are bringing in. Obviously he has been playing at a higher level the last few years, but he is an Ascot boy and he wants to start enjoying his football again. We are very good friends and a lot of his mates play for us. For a club at our level to sign a player like him is a bit of a minor miracle really. He has a wealth of experience. He could be the bit of quality we need. He could be the catalyst to turn things around, but it is not all about him. It is also about the other 10 players that are on the pitch with him."
Sam McIntyre scored a late consolation goal for United on last weekend as the Yellamen went down against unbeaten Hellenic Premier Division leaders Reading. Scammell said: "We were poor. We competed for the first 20 minutes, it was pretty even until then, but then we gifted them a few goals. Our defending was nonsensical, actually it was non-existent at times. If we carry on defending like that it doesn't matter how many chances we create, we will lose every time. We know where our weaknesses are and where we need to improve. Our build-up play was better in patches, a bit more structured. But we still have work to do defensively."
United return to league action on tomorrow with a trip to Shrivenham, who won 3-1 at the Racecourse back in September. Scammell is expecting another tough battle: "I am expecting it to be as stern a test as we have had this season. We've played them already and looking at their results they don't get beaten too often." The Yellamen should have central defender Paul McGrotty back, but skipper Tim Standing is still out.
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Looking For Positives - 30th October
Stuart Scammell is doing his best to look on the bright side following Ascot's humbling against Kidlington last weekend. After showing signs of improvement in recent weeks the Premier Division newboys went down 7-1 at the Racecourse Ground, their biggest home defeat since joining the FTL Futbol Hellenic League three seasons ago.
The United boss was sent from the touchline after an exchange with the matchday officials. But he admits the visitors were 'good value' for the win. He said: "If it had not been for our goalkeeper David Lyons I dread to think what the scoreline would have been. It could have been anything. Before they even scored they had about six one-on-ones. At 1-1 midway through the first half of course you think the game is still there for the taking. We had a few chances to go ahead, but that would not have been fair on Kidlington, they were good value for the win. In the second half we were outstandingly embarrassing. We were appalling."
The performance of goalkeeper Lyons aside, Scammell picked out the contribution of 16-year-old right back Arran Mulvaney as the other positive. The youngster is the first member of the the club's new Allied Counties team to break through to the first team. And Scammell said: "David Lyons was one of the very few positives to come out of the game. In fact there were probably only two. The other one was a young right back that we have brought through our Allied Counties team. Arran Mulvaney is only 16, but I thought he played very well. When the Allied Counties side was set up at the beginning of the season we certainly were not expecting to see anyone come through so quickly. We were looking at the other side of Christmas at the earliest. But I'm a believer that if you are good enough you are old enough. I'd seen Arran play two or three times and he looks a very good player. And he showed on Saturday that this is not too big a step for him."
Things don't get any easier for United tomorrow as they welcome unbeaten league leaders Reading Town to the Racecourse Ground for a League Cup clash. The Yellamen lost 5-0 when the sides met in the league earlier in the season and Scammell is after an improved performance this time out. He said: "It is the League Cup and they are top of the Premier Division and still undefeated. That should make them favourites for this competition, right? We did not give a very good account of ourselves when we played them last time, but hopefully we learned some things about them. This competition is not priority number one for us at the moment. What is priority number one is getting a fit side out on the pitch and playing well. If we can do that I don't care what competition it's in."
Scammell will be putting out the strongest side available to him on Saturday, but admits the next three Hellenic League games are of much greater importance to the club. He said: "We've got some big games coming up, Bicester, Shrivenham and Fairford. Those are teams that we are in and around and that we should be looking to take points off. Hopefully we will pick ourselves up and dust ourselves down after last Saturday and be in good nick going into those games. I thought we'd turned a corner with the way we have been playing over the last few weeks, but then we went and played like we did on Saturday. It's disappointing, but I still believe in this group of players and we will come back from this."
The Yellamen suffered more injury woe this week.They lost Richard Mills to a hamstring injury in training last week then Jon Gurr pulled up in the warm-up against Kidlington with a hamstring injury. Mills along with Neil Corbett and Simon Knight will definitely miss the clash with Reading, but Scammell is hopeful that Andrew Lunn and Dominic Polisano should be available. He said: "Lunny was in seeing the physio on Monday night, hopefully he'll be fit. Our physio Carole Owens is really working overtime with us at the moment, Lunny was one of five players in on Monday. Dom hasn't played a full game for three weeks, but he came on for the last 20 minutes on Saturday and did not have a reaction."
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Injury Woes - 23rd October
Stuart Scammell is hoping his Ascot side's injury fortunes change soon after seeing five more players limp off in their two games last week.
The Yellamen went down 3-1 to Ardley United last Saturday.That game and the previous midweek meet were two games that took a further toll on the United squad with defenders Jon Gurr and Phil Boddy, midfielders Tim Standing and Simon Knight and striker Andy Lunn all picking up knocks. Scammell said: "On Saturday I used my 35th and 36th players of the season. In 16 games that is ludicrous. I would love to be able to say it is because I have been tinkering, but it is all because of injury and unavailability. I would love to have a healthy headache, but hopefully that will come. Our fortunes in that department have to change sometime. If everyone gets fit it will be like the cast of Ben Hur!"
Last Saturday Ascot had another bright start and took a third minute lead through Steve Curtis, before Ardley hit back through Danny Bone. In the second half Gurr and Boddy both limped off as goals from Andy Stidder and Jordan Ayris won it for the Oxfordshire side. Scammell said: "Rather than conceding early goals, we've started scoring them, which is a welcome change. But defensively we still have a way to go, we are still making too many mistakes. I would say 1-1 was the right result against Marlow, the previous midweek, but I don't think that 3-1 was really a fair reflection of the game on Saturday. First half we were very comfortable. We got the goal, but then let them back into the game. In the second half if we defended the way we had in the first we would have gone on to win the game. But you can't make mistakes like we did and expect to get away with it. We lost our centre back and our left back to injury within three minutes of each other, so obviously that does not help."
United host Kidlington tomorrowand Lunn (calf) and Knight (hamstring) are both doubtful. Scammell added: "If you look at their results you'll see that they've taken points off a lot of the top sides, so they must be a very good team."
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Unbeaten Run In Waiting - 16th October
Stuart Scammell predicts an unbeaten run is waiting just around the corner for his Acot side, after seeing them claim their third league win of the season on Saturday.
United thrashed fellow-strugglers Hook Norton 6-1 to move up to fourth-bottom in the FTL Futbol HellenicLeague Premier Division. But it is the Yellamen's improved performances against the division's higher-placed sides that is giving Scammell grounds for optimism. He said: "What we've seen over the last few weeks is that there has finally been a bit of consistency in our selection. We are getting towards a settled side and I think you can see that in our results. We are not getting beaten by fives and sixes and sevens anymore. We lost by a goal against Highworth and Wantage and by two in a close game against Shrivenham. The table does not lie and we are where we are because we have not won enough games. Nine points from 14 games is not enough, it is not nearly enough, but we are making progess. It has been in our genetics as a team at whatever league we have been playing in to go on these little unbeaten runs. And that is exactly what we need to do to get out of trouble."
Scammell was thrilled with his side's response to going a goal down on Saturday, but felt his players lost their way in the second half. He said: "We were dominant in the first half after the worst possible start. After 90 seconds there was an absolute howler between Paul McGrotty and our goalkeeper David Lyons. It was a gift and you're starting to think that it is not going to be your day. But we took the game by the scruff of the neck and deserved to be three goals ahead at half-time. I was disappointed with the second half display. We lost our shape. It was a bit like Charge of the Light Brigade and we actually thought they were going to score. But having said that, we know how important it is to win against the sides that are in and around you in the table. Beforehand we would have taken a 1-0, with a last minute goal off someone's backside."
Scammell was also pleased to see four different players get on the scoresheet. He said: "I think it's the sign of a healthy team to have lots of players scoring goals. In previous seasons we have relied a lot on Jon Bennett, but we do have a lot of people capable of scoring goals."
The Yellamen continue their league campaign with a trip to Ardley United tomorrow.Scammell added: "We did not come into this league saying we were going to tear it apart. We have been very level headed and said our aim is to establish ourselves at step-five. Probably we have not done that yet, but this is a journey and everything takes a bit of time to come together. We don't know a great deal about Ardley, but whoever we are playing against if we are confident and we go about our business properly we will give them a good game."
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Scammell Frustrated - 8th October
Stuart Scammell was left frustrated by his Ascot side this week despite seeing them pick up their first win in six attempts on Saturday.
The Yellamen beat Hellenic One (West) whipping boys Launton Sports in the Bluefin Challenge Trophy. But the United boss admits that the performance was well below the level seen in last Wednesday's narrow league defeat against Wantage.
He said: "We are looking to improve with every game, but to be honest we did not see too many signs of that on Saturday.
I said afterwards that we should have given everyone a refund. You would expect us to do a bit more against a side that has lost every game this season. I'm just annoyed because of the inconsistency."
Simon Knight scored the only goal of the game at the Racecourse Ground as United beat Launton 1-0. This came three days after the Yellamen were beaten by the same scoreline at Wantage, who have lost just once in the Hellenic Premier Division this season. Scammell continued: "How can the same players do so well on a Wednesday evening and then three days later play like that? We were well worth at least a point against Wantage last Wednesday. But on Saturday we put in a very, very average performance. To be fair to the players they improved in the second half, but it took a few home truths at the break."
United are back in league action on Saturday when they face rock-bottom Hook Norton. And Scammell knows how important the clash is, even so early in the season. He said: "I'm not sure if you can say this in October, but it is the ultimate six-pointer really. Obviously it's far too early to say things like whoever wins will avoid relegation, but it will be a real confidence booster. But it is not going to be an easy game. Hook Norton will be looking at the game in exactly the same way as us. They are a team that are in and around us in the table, so we will be going there looking to get a positive result."
The Yellamen are likely to be without Dominic Polisano (groin) and are sweating on the fitness of Paul McGrotty (hamstring). However Andy Lunn should be available after a spell on the sidelines.
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Not Taken Lightly - 2nd October
Stuart Scammell is refusing to take Hellenic One (West) basement boys Launton Sports lightly ahead of their cup clash on tomorrow.
The Yellamen have lost their last five games as they continue to get to grips with life in the Premier Division. But the Bluefin Insurance Challenge Cup clash pairs them against a Launton side who have lost their first nine league games in the division below. However, given United's frustrating start to the campaign, Scammell says they will be going all out to get a win.
He said: "If we had started the season differently and were flying high in the league, maybe I could have thought about mixing things up a bit and trying out a few things. But I will be putting out a strong side and we will be treating this as any other game. You would like to think that we will put in a good account of ourselves against them and you'd like to think it is a game we can win. But we are taking absolutely nothing for granted at the moment. We will have to give them the same amount of respect as we would do any time in our division. Anything can happen on any given day. Last year we played South Kilburn in the cup. I played a weakened team and they beat us 5-1. We played them in the league a few weeks later and that time we beat them 5-1. That just shows how things can happen."
United should be boosted by the return of several key players for the clash. Scammell added: "Richard Mills is back, Ben Dunk is available, as is Dominic Polisano, who has a lot of experience from his Maidenhead days."
Ascot's tough start to the Premier Division season continued on Wednesday night as they went down 1-0 at home to Wantage Town. Wantage took a sixth minute lead and United were unable to claw back the deficit as they slumped to their fifth straight defeat.
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Sweepstake At Ascot - 2nd October
One of the country’s biggest amateur football clubs celebrates securing funding to redevelop its football facilities Ascot United has received confirmation that it can now start the next phase of its redevelopment project at its ground at Ascot Racecourse thanks to a hat trick of funding awards.
The £770,000 development project is being funded with £388,609 of investment from the Football Foundation, the country’s largest sports charity, which is funded by the Premier League, The FA and Government. Of the £388,609 awarded to the club, £170,000 has come from Sport England via the Football Association. Sport England is investing in governing bodies such as the FA to deliver more people playing and enjoying sport and helping those with talent fulfil their potential. In addition, the Football Stadia Improvement Fund – a sister organisation of the Football Foundation – has also awarded Ascot United a grant of £99,179 for the element of the project that includes ground improvement. And to complete a hat trick of funding successes for the club, the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead is also supporting the redevelopment with significant funding.
The building of a new pavilion and changing rooms will start this month following the completion of phase 1 this summer which included new floodlights, pitch-side walkways, a covered stand, new dugouts and new services. The pavilion will be completed in time for the start of the 2010-2011 season.
Ascot United is an FA Charter Standard Community Club and with 68 teams and over 800 registered players ranging from the Under-6 Soccer School to the Veterans it is certainly is one of the largest grass roots football clubs in the UK, if not the biggest!
The senior team play in the FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier League Premier Division and the club has 7 girls and Ladies teams. The club has over 100 qualified coaches. The club has been based at Ascot Racecourse for 45 years and recently signed a new 25 year lease. Mike Harrison, Chairman at Ascot United said: “The club is a community club in the true sense and we have all been working for a long time now to reach this position. Our present facilities passed their useful life some time ago and the new facilities will benefit all our players at different stages of their football careers. Everyone at the club is really excited about the progress we are making and the new facilities.”
“This has been a long and complex project and we could not have reached this stage had it not been for the patience and support of Ascot Racecourse, The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, The Crown Estate, The Football Association, the Football Foundation and of course all the committee members and volunteers at the club who have worked tirelessly over the years.”
Paul Thorogood, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation said: “We are thrilled that Ascot United FC and the local community will have access to these fantastic new facilities and commend the club for their hard work in making this happen.”
“Sport is playing a central role in helping people to stay fit, strengthen communities and promote responsibility amongst young people. This is the latest example of thousands of projects across the country that the Football Foundation is supporting with money provided by our funding partners the Premier League, The FA and Government.”
Lisa O’Keefe, Sport England’s Director of Sport said: “There can be no greater demonstration of the thriving health of grassroots football than the 68 teams that make up Ascot United. Sport England is pleased that our investment in community
football will lead to even better sporting opportunities for Ascot’s 800 registered players – and new members that will be attracted to the club.”
Cllr David Hilton, Councillor for Ascot and Cheapside, said: “I am delighted that at last grants have been approved that will enable Ascot United to make improvements to their facilities that are essential for their long-term future.
"The club provides superb sporting opportunities for a great many young people in the Ascot area, and the council is very pleased to be able to support their ongoing development with a grant of at least £120,000.”
Charles Barnett, Chief Executive of Ascot Racecourse said: “In providing a home for the club at the Racecourse, we are delighted to have played our part in securing a bright future for the football club. It’s always very satisfying when so many parties come together to achieve something as positive as this for the local community and we wish the club all the success that it’s hard work and dedication deserves.” |
Take The Moles, Then Run - 11th September
Stuart Scammell has challenged his side to beat Binfield in the big Hellenic Premier Division derby on Saturday and then go on an unbeaten run. The Yellamen ended a run of four straight defeats with a 2-0 win over Pegasus Juniors at the Racecourse on Saturday.
And now Scammell wants his fourth-bottom team to kick on, starting with Saturday's home clash against their nearest rivals. He said: "It really wouldn't matter who we were playing this week. The main focus would have been on building on the momentum from last weekend. Two seasons ago, our first in Division One East, we lost our first six or seven games and then we went on a run of winning nine on the spin. That is the kind of run we are targeting now. We have got our just desserts so far this season. We have not given a good account of ourselves so far. But our aim is to establish ourselves at this level, so it is time to kick on."
The United boss admits a visit from Steve McClurg's Binfield is one that everyone at the club always looks forward to. "We always look forward to playing against them. Everyone wants to win their local derbies, and in this division Binfield are our only proper derby. They were worthy winners of the league last season and I felt we were worthy runners-up. They beat us the last time we played when I had to send out the walking wounded, so it will be a chance for us to set the record straight. It probably won't be a thriller. If it was on Match of the Day it would be one of those matches at the end that they squeeze into the last two minutes. But there is a lot of pride at stake. And neither side will want to lose."
United prepared for the derby in the best possible way with their second win of the season last weekend. Early goals from Sam McIntyre and Andy Lunn put Ascot in charge against Pegasus and they went on to pick up their second clean sheet of the season. Scammell said: "It was a far more disciplined performance all around. It just all came together. The guys set targets for each game and the defensive unit set their sights on a clean sheet, so it's a massive boost for them."
Another boost for Ascot was the appearance of striker Jon Bennett, who limped off injured in their previous game against Reading Town. His manager added: "That is good news. It looked like a serious injury, but in the end it was just heavy bruising. We knew he couldn't play for the whole game on Saturday, but he should be okay for the weekend. We have had a whole week off before the Binfield game, which is an absolute godsend after such a hectic start to the season."
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Yellamen Back Players - 4th September
Boss Stuart Scammell has backed his squad to steer clear of relegation despite slipping to their fourth straight defeat on Tuesday evening. The Yellamen went down 5-0 against Hellenic Premier Division title chasers Reading Town at Scours Lane. And Scammell says it is time for the players to cut out the individual mistakes. He said: "I still believe we have assembled a great squad, capable of playing winning football at any level of the amateur game. There is absolutely no question of me looking to bring in new players. I back these players to the hilt. It's time to batten down the hatches, build a brick wall around this group and have a look at ourselves. But as a coach there is not much more I can do. I thought he had turned a corner with our performance against Old Woodstock, but the players have to go out on the pitch and do it."
On Tuesday two goals from Aaron Parfitt and one from former Bracknell skipper Michael Buck gave Town a 3-0 half time lead before they killed off the game with two more goals in the last five minutes. Scammell said: "They were a proper long ball side. Crash bang, get it from back to front as quickly as you can. We didn't help ourselves, some of our defending was nonsensical. We put a bow on it and some fancy wrapping. But at the end of the season we won't be judged on how we do against sides like Reading Town. It's about how we do against the sides around us."
United continue on Saturday with a home clash against Pegasus Juniors. Scammell is looking for a reaction from his players. "It is absolutely massive, it really is. We are not bottom of the league yet, but we are starting to look over our shoulder. Our aim this season was to establish ourselves in this league and so far we have failed to do that. However, I have a points target in my head of what I would like to achieve and I still firmly believe that is possible."
United are sweating over the fitness of star striker Jon Bennett (pictured) for that clash after he limped off in Tuesday evening's defeat at Scours Lane. The Ascot hot-shot was injured in a tackle that resulted in a straight red card for a Reading Town player. And the Yellamen could be forced to fight on without last season's top scorer for some time. Scammell comments:: "We are still waiting to see what the doctor says, but losing Jon would be an absolutely massive blow for us. It was an absolute horror challenge, straight on the ankle, and so we had to haul him off. He was able to put some weight on it after the game, so we are all hoping for the best."
Bennett's injury came just two days after another United stalwart, centre back Nick Curtis, was ruled out for three months with ankle ligament damage. Scammell added: "That was another terrible tackle. I thought we used up all our bad luck when we lost 7-0 to Highworth Town the previous week, but obviously someone up there has it in for us at the moment."
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Out For Revenge - 28th August
Stuart Scammell is out for revenge when his Ascot United side host their first ever home fixture in the Hellenic Premier Division on Sunday.
After five straight away games, the Yellamen lock entertain Old Woodstock Town at the Racecourse Ground (6.15pm KO). The Bicester-based outfit won 2-0 when the sides met on the opening day two weeks ago and Scammell is looking for his side to turn the tables this time. He said: "We are all really looking forward to our first game at the Racecourse. We have already totted up about 500 miles in the first four or five games, so it will be nice to have a game on our own patch. I like having opportunities to play sides again quickly after they have beaten you. We know a lot more about them now than we did the first time we played them. I am extremely biased of course, but I look at this as a winnable fixture if every one of our players applies themselves. But as long as we give 100 per cent I will be happy."
Ascot have been forced to play their first five league fixtures of the season away from home as the finishing touches have been put on their ground improvements. The new 125-seater stand will get its first run-out and with the Hellenic League's ground-hop supporters dropping in for the fixture, it should be more than full. Scammell added: "We trained at the Racecourse for the first time last week and just to be back there was great. Mike Harrison (chairman) has been working tirelessly over the summer to get things in place and the pitch is looking fantastic.I think our record attendance is about 250, so with everything that's going on, Sunday could be in that ballpark too."
Scammell is desperate for a touch of normality after a 'farcical' 7-0 defeat against Highworth Town on Tuesday evening.
The Yellamen were well-beaten in their fifth consecutive away game of the season. But Scammell can see light at the end of the tunnel, starting with Sunday's game against Old Woodstock. He said: "I don't think I'll ever see a night quite like that ever again. Simon Knight hit the post in the second minute and then they had a goal given, even though the linesman flagged for offside. There was an own goal off Jonny Keogh's back, a few deflections into the top corner. Everything that could go wrong did go wrong. But I'm not too disheartened. It was only one game and hopefully we've used up all our bad luck in one hit."
And Scammell refused to use his side's inexperience at the Premier Division level as an excuse. Adding : "The jury is still out for me on this 'getting used to a new level stuff'. The way I see it we have a very good group of players here and I would expect every one of our players to be able to acquit themselves at the higher level, otherwise they wouldn't have been here in the first place."
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No Concerns - 21st August
Stuart Scammell insists he has 'no concerns' despite his Ascot United side opening their Hellenic Premier Division campaign with a pair of defeats.
With a 2-0 defeat at Old Woodstock Town in their curtain-raiser, things did not get much better last Saturday as an error-strewn performance saw them beaten 6-1 at Malmesbury Victoria.
The Yellamen's start bears a resemblance to their struggles following their last promotion from the Reading League in 2007.
Then Ascot suffered six defeats in their opening seven games as they adjusted to the Hellenic League, before recovering in fine style to finish fourth.
Despite being disappointed by his side's initial exploits in the Premier Division, boss Scammell insists his side will grow into the challenge. He said: "I not concerned at all, I'm very relaxed about the situation - we have got another 40 attempts to get it right in this league. The great thing about playing at this level is that you get another chance to put things right within 72 hours. I'm conscious of where we need to improve and what to do about it."
Scammell added that improved performances will come as his players gain more experience of football at Step Five.
Explainning: "You come up against more intelligent opposition, who can pick up on any weaknesses you have. And I think there is an element of naivety in our approach play. We are a very attack-minded side and quite forthright in what we do. But that kind of gung ho approach is not what you need sometimes. But we will get better, fitter and stronger and have the potential to mature as the league goes on."
Though they got off the mark in the Hellenic Premier Division mid-week with a convincing 4-0 defeat of Bicester Town.
The Yellamen dominated from the off and found themselves two goals to the good within 11 minutes, thanks to strikes from Jon Bennett and Sam McIntyre.
United conclude their run of five straight away games with trips to Abingdon Town tomorrow and Highworth Town next Tuesday.
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Racecourse Ground NewLease Finalised - 10th August
Ascot United, members of the FTL Futbol Hellenic Premier Division passed another important milestone in its development project last week when it signed a new 25 year lease to enable it to remain at its home ground at Ascot Racecourse. The club has been at the ground for 45 years and it was a requirement of the various funders that a new lease was signed before funding was made available to the club.
Mike Harrison, Chairman of the Ascot United said “It was important that we secured our future at the Racecourse and our thanks go to the management at Ascot Racecourse for their continued commitment to the club and the community by agreeing to a new lease. We can now focus on the major project to upgrade the facilities at our home ground”
Ronnie Wilkie, Operations Director for Ascot Racecourse said “We are delighted to be able to extend Ascot United’s lease on a long term basis. The club is an invaluable part of the local community and provides an opportunity for literally hundreds of young footballers every year. This announcement will enable this thriving club to obtain crucial funding and build for the future, guaranteeing football in the community for the next generation”
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Going Places - 28th July
With one of the UKs largest youth sections, as well as a rapidly improving senior side, Ascot United is a football club that is going places.
 Hidden away at its Winkfield Road ground, the club is growing both on and off at the pitch, and at the forefront of its expansion is chairman Mike Harrison. Since being appointed in 2003, he has been the driving force behind many improvements which this summer have included floodlights, hard standing around the pitch, new dug-outs and a stand which will hold over 100 supporters.
The club's Winkfield Road ground looks a very different place now to when he first took over, but for Harrison the project is still not complete. He explained: "Obviously I'm really pleased with the work we've done so far. The ground is looking great but there's still a long way to go. We've still got the clubhouse and changing rooms to build, the pitch needs to be sorted out. A lot has been done but there's still more to come. It will take another year to be completed."
Work on the new clubhouse is expected to begin sometime in the next couple of months and it should be operational by the time the 2010/11 season begins. When it is done the total money spent on the project will have surpassed £750,000, with the cash being raised by a mixture of grants and by the club itself.
And despite a lot of the work being done for the senior side's benefit as they need the improved facilities following their promotion into the Hellenic Premier Division, Harrison is quick to point out its importance to the whole club."We've got over 650 youth players," he said. "We will have over 60 teams this year and I'm confident in saying we're one of the largest clubs in the UK. This project is for everyone involved. We're a community club, everyone works together here. It's not just about the seniors or the youth section. I want to see the men established at a good level of football, the standard of coaching improved to help the kids and give the community a club to be proud of."
The senior side's rapid improvement in recent years has co-incided with the appointment of Stuart Scammell as manager. He took over the role in 2004 and three years later the club won promotion to Division One East of the Hellenic League after winning the Reading Senior Division.
The Yellamen's first campaign in Division One East was a successful one as they finished fourth, and they went even better last season – claiming second behind Binfield to land a spot in the Premier Division. Harrison said: "All credit to them, they've done very well. Five years ago Stuart and I sat down in a pub and spoke about what had to be done on and off the pitch. We signed a pact about what he had to do and what I had to do and I think we're both pretty surprised that we've managed it. We've got a good relationship which is important. I think this season our aim is to establish ourselves in a new league and that's going to be tough. We're under no illusions about how difficult that will be but we're confident we can achieve our target." |
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