BINFIELD F C NEWS

Davies Moves To Thatcham - 25 January

Binfield front man Carl Davies has decided to move to Evo-Stik Southern League Thatcham Town.

Last week it was reported in the press that the Welshman confirmed that he turned down an offer, following an approach from "The Kingfishers". But it would appear that the striker has now decided to take it up.

Binfield have issued a statement in respect of the decision. "Following a 7-day approach received last week, Binfield FC are disappointed to confirm that Carl Davies has decided to leave Binfield FC to play his football at Thatcham Town. We'd like to thank Carl for all his efforts over the last two seasons and wish him all the very best at Thatcham."

Davies has played 29 League and Cup games for Binfield this season scoring 20 goals. Thatcham Town Manager Gary Ackling said " We are delighted to get our man he was always our first choice. Carl will go straight into the squad for Saturdays fixture away at Yate Town".

Proud Chairman - 20 January

Binfield chairman Bob Bacon admits that Saturday's FA Vase fourth-round tie is one of the biggest games, if not the biggest, in the club's 120-year history.

Since gaining promotion from Hellenic Division 1 East in 2008/09, the club has been on an upward spiral. They finished second in the Hellenic Premier Division last season, only to be denied promotion due to issues with their Hill Farm Lane ground. Although unlikely to hit the same levels in the league this term, their chances of silverware are significant as they are still in four cup competitions.

But this Saturday's game, which sees them travel to the West Midlands to face Tividale in the last 32 of the Vase (3pm kick-off), is by far and away the most important. Although the final is potentially still five games away, the competition's showpiece is played at Wembley, where the attendances for the match regularly exceed 10,000, with the record crowd approaching 37,000. Already Bacon insists the added interest in the Moles' cup run has increased the club's profile, and he is hoping that such a trend continues should the team overcome Saturday's Midland Football Alliance Division 1 opponents.

Because of the success they have enjoyed in the past few seasons, Bacon suggested that the club is bucking the national trend with regards to sponsorship. Rather than struggling to attract investment in the club, he said that companies are lining up to be associated with the Moles. Their shirt sponsors, Stewarts Coaches, are providing transport both for the team and supporters for Saturday's game.

Whilst the team is performing well on the pitch, the chairman is delighted to reap the rewards on behalf of the club off it. "It's certainly one of the biggest games in our history," he said. "Certainly in my tenure at Binfield this is the biggest by far, and is right up there with the Margate game in the FA Cup last season. We've made great progress on and off the pitch in the last few years. Mark (Tallentire) has put a management team together that works very well while the team has delievered on the pitch by playing good quality football. We are doing well in the league, we are in the semi-finals of the county cup, we are in the quarter-finals of the two league cups and also in the last 32 of the FA Vase. That represents a pretty good season in my book."

Bacon added. "There is a bit of prize money at stake in the FA Vase, but it does the club profile very well. We've done as well as we possibly can for the club from a sponsorship position year on year. We have some fantastic sponsors for the last five years and the great thing is that when we are playing as well as we are right now people are approaching us about contributing to the club. But it's not just about the first team, we serve an active community, providing a safe footballing environment from under-6s right up through the age groups. We also have a successful Allied Counties under-18 side, who have begun providing players for the reserves, who in turn are providing players for the first team. Binfield always have good crowds at home, but it is a mark of how good the club is when you can see how well supported we are away from home. A lot of supporters are going up on Saturday both on the coach and in their own cars."

Millar Contends For Vase Start - 19 January

New signing Joss Millar is in contention to make his Binfield debut this weekend in The FA Vase after he joined from Evo-Stik Southern League Didcot Town. The winger (pictured), who can play on either flank, will provide welcome competition for Danny Wing and Stuart Tanfield.

Binfield manager Mark Tallentire believes Saturday's historic FA Vase tie could be a tense affair for all concerned. The Moles play West Midlanders Tividale in the last 32 of the national cup competition, who are just above mid-table in the Midland Football Alliance Division One and have endured a similar campaign to the Moles.

They won their last game 7-1 but lost the previous encounter 2-1. Their top scorer is Chris Russell who has scored 16 goals in 21 appearances.

Tallentire knows it will be a tough ask for his team but he is confident that as long as they remain focused and stick to their playing style, they can get a result against the West Midlanders.

"It's a massive game when you put it into context," he told the Bracknell News. "It's a national cup, we've done quite well in it so far but we mustn't underestimate the size of the task. We've been drawn away and that in itself brings extra logistical problems."

He also believes it will be a very close game between the two sides. "Tividale are a decent team. I've watched them play and they've got strengths that will ask us questions. You could say we're a mirror image of them. I'm expecting a tight, tense game. There's a lot riding on it. It will be the team that gets the ball down and plays at a good tempo and puts their style on to the other team as quickly as possible that will have the best chance. Having played teams from that neck of the woods when I was at Bracknell, I know that every game is tough up there. We're planning for every eventuality they can throw at us as long as the lads focus on the job in hand."

Chairman Bob Bacon is delighted at the team's progress. He said: "For a village football team to be in the last 32 of a national competition is a tremendous achievement. We would love to get to the next round but we're not counting our chickens yet. True to form, Binfield FC will be well supported from the terraces with cries of 'Come on you Moles'."

Binfield will be taking around 60 fans up on their main sponsor Stewarts of Mortimer Coaches, who have provided discounted travel for Moles supporters. A statement from the club read: "Binfield FC are also very grateful to Coppid Beech hotel for use of their car park as a pickup and drop off venue for this Saturday and several other occasions."

In other news, striker Carl Davies has reiterated his desire to stay at the Moles after he rejected a move to Thatcham Town last week. Thatcham Town manager Gary Ackling watched Carl play in the recent cup game against Reading Town, prompting a seven-day approach from the Southern league club. But the Welshman confirmed that he turned down the offer.

"I told Mark that I want to stay. Binfield have been very good to me this season. It's a well-run club with great aspirations." However, he admitted: "Thatcham are an appealing team to play for. They're doing well in the league. Mark knows I want to play in the Southern league but I'm hoping to do that with Binfield. "

Meanwhile Carl is facing a race against time to be fit for Saturday's FA Vase tie after sustaining an ankle injury this week. He has been unable to train during the week but is hopeful that he will make the big trip.

Consistency Key - 6 January 2012

Consistent team selection was the key to the Moles picking up maximum points over the Christmas period.

The Moles completed their holiday fixtures with a last-gasp 2-1 win at Ascot United on Monday to make it nine points out of nine from the derbies against Wokingham & Emmbrook and Bracknell Town. Ian Davies' stoppage time winner leaves them fifth in Hellenic Premier Division and they have capitalised on dropped points from Flackwell Heath and Shortwood United. A severely depleted Yellamen side put in a spirited performance in front of 170 spectators at the Racecourse, their highest league attendance this year.

A delighted Mark Tallentire said after the game: "It showed our never-say-die attitude. In the second half I felt there was only one side that was going to win the game. Ian's popped up with the winner and that's what he's in the team for. In the first half we suffered from the amount of games we've had over Christmas. They went in one up at half-time and they deserved the lead. It was a case of upping the tempo in the second half. It was too slow and that suited Ascot."

Danny Wing, who was praised by his manager. "Wing's been outstanding for us, we just need to get more end product out of him because he gets in fantastic positions," said Tallentire. "When we could get him on the ball, I thought he was the skirge of Ascot."

Tallentire added: "We're getting back to our old selves. Having Carl and Ian (Davies) back together again has made a massive difference and we've got our cutting edge back. We're getting consistent team selection and that's key to it. You get continuity and that's been proved over the Christmas period."

The Moles will be looking to continue their momentum with the first of three home games starting with Henley Town tomorrow (3pm ko), who beat Flackwell Heath 2-0 on Monday.

Complacency Out - 30 December

Complacency will not be suffered by manager Mark Tallentire when Binfield host local rivals Bracknell Town tomorrow (12.30pm ko).

The Robins were beaten 8-0 when they travelled to Hill Farm Lane last season and currently prop up the Hellenic Premier Division with just three wins to their name. But they started the festive period with a 2-1 win over Ascot United on Tuesday and have been boosted by the arrival of former Windsor youth coach Mick Woodham, who has brought with him a number of talented youngsters. Woodham joins Steve McClurg and Andy Keen's coaching team and saw one of his signings, Ben Harris, make an immediate impact with both goals on his debut against Ascot.

Bracknell will be hoping for more success against Binfield this weekend but Tallentire says his side will be ready for the Robins.
"We will treat them as if we were playing a side who are top of the league," he told the News. "We never look at league positions and think it's a home banker, you have to work hard to get results in this division and we'll be doing exactly that against Bracknell."

Goals from Ian and Carl Davies helped Binfield beat Wokingham & Emmbrook 2-1 on Tuesday and the Moles will go into the match on New Year's Eve against Bracknell as heavy favourites. Tallentire added: "It won't be a Bracknell that we've seen before so it will be interesting but they have to do something that not a lot of teams do and that's beat us at home. We've got a good record at Hill Farm Lane and if we hit the levels we did against Wokingham then we'll give a good account of ourselves."

Dual Davies Return - 22 December

Ian and Carl Davies return to the Binfield line-up for Tuesday's clash with Wokingham & Emmbrook. The duo have scored nearly half of Binfield's league goals between them this season, and they were sorely missed during Saturday's 1-0 defeat by Abingdon Town.

The Moles have lost their last two games, and haven't recorded a league win in four matches. Carl Davies has missed three of those through suspension, while Ian Davies limped off after an hour in the 3-0 defeat to Ardley United earlier this month, and missed Saturday's loss at home to Abingdon.

Mark Tallentire believes Binfield's record would look a lot better if either had been playing. "Ardley did a good job on us, they are flying at the moment, but Saturday's game was very much the other way round," he said. "We were better than them for long periods, we battered them in the second half, but we couldn't put the ball in the back of the net. We wasted so many chances and it was embarrassing that we didn't score at least two or three of them. If we'd have had either Carl Davies or Ian Davies playing we would have won comfortably. They are vital cogs for us, every team needs to have the players that put the ball in the net and we're no different. They have both got different strengths. They have fantastic qualities, but are very different players. We miss Carl's movement when he's not playing, he makes defenders move into positions they are not comfortable in. Ian is probably a little better at holding up play, and also has a better goalscoring record. When they are not in our team we miss them and that has been proved in the last couple of games. We are trying to find the recipe for an exciting team and when those two are playing they are a big part of that."

Binfield go into a hectic Christmas schedule which starts on Tuesday at home to local rivals Wokingham & Emmbrook (3pm kick-off). The teams have enjoyed some good encounters in past seasons, and traditionally play their league games for the Martin Joyce Memorial Trophy. Binfield currently hold the bragging rights, having won the two meetings between the sides last season 4-3 on aggregate.

Binfield then host Bracknell Town on New Year's Eve (12.30pm) before making the short trip to Ascot United on Monday January 2 (3pm kick-off). Tallentire will not only welcome back his two strikers for the game, but will also see Stuart Tanfield, Mike Hancock and Gary Callaway return to the side. Jack Tallentire, however, is expected to be laid up until mid-January with a knee injury.
The Binfield boss knows he will need all his players on top form if they are to catapult themselves back into the promotion picture. "We've got to start winning games now because we have lost two on the trot," he said. "I'm happy with the way we are playing going into the holiday period and we have a bunch of winnable games coming up. They are games that I will be expecting us to get maximum points from and that is no disrespect to the other teams. I think Wokingham will be the hardest game and it is always a close one against them. They raise there game against us and when they can get their best 11 out they have a good side. I'm expecting a tough game but I want us to go out and show a bit of grit and get the result against them."

Turn Defeat Into Success - 16 December

Mark Tallentire wants to use last Saturday's defeat to Ardley United as a springboard for Binfield to go on a winning streak that will boost their title aspiration.

The Moles were without five first team players as they went down 3-0 at home to Ardley. The defeat leaves Binfield in sixth position, 20 points adrift of the Hellenic Premier leaders but with five games in hand.

Tallentire insists the Moles' promotion hopes are still alive despite the defeat. "We're not out of it yet," he declared. "It's put a dent in those hopes but I want us to use that as a springboard and go on one of our runs. Who's to say we can't go on a decent run and not lose another game till the end of the season. We've got the players, we've got the squad, we just need to get our best 11 out."

However, they will need to find a settled back four before they can seriously mount a challenge, as Tallentire explains: "I haven't had my strongest back four playing every week so you don't get the continuity and the consistent performances. We need to get that stability."

Despite the defeat, Tallentire felt they deserved a goal for their exploits but admitted: "With 10 minutes to go we became vulnerable to their counter-attacks. If it wasn't for keeper Dan Weait we might have lost by more. Ardley reminded me of how we looked last year when we were on that winning run."

With the Moles' Monday night game against Oxford City Nomads called off due to a water logged pitch, they have had a full week to prepare for the trip to Abingdon Town on Saturday (3pm ko).

Tallentire revealed that he is in talks to make Johnnie Dyer's move permanent after impressing since joining the club. Jamie Clarke has also signed for the Moles as cover at left full back. Clarke, 33, was with the Moles for a couple of matches in 2006-7 and 2008-9.

Heroics On Backburner - 10 December

Binfield manager Mark Tallentire has told his players to put thoughts of their FA Vase heroics on the backburner to concentrate on the league.

The Moles were outstanding as they dispatched Hellenic Premier Division rivals Flackwell Heath 3-1 in the third round of the vase on Saturday. Goals from James Suarez, Ian Davies and Johnnie Dyer booked a fourth-round tie at Midland Alliance Premier Division side Tividale on January 21. A win there will see the Moles into the last 16 of the national competition, where the final is played at Wembley. But rather than allowing his players to get carried away with the excitement of making club history, Tallentire insists it is now back to their bread and butter of the Hellenic League. Binfield lie fifth in the table, six points behind Shortwood.

Tallentire believes the next two games, at home to leaders Ardley United today (3pm kick-off) and at home to second-placed Oxford City Nomads on Monday (7.45pm), could have a huge bearing on the rest of their season. "We had a really good week to prepare for Saturday's game and that allowed the boys to regain their focus and it was  really good performance," he said. "We haven't played like that for a long time. We won the midfield battle, which was key, and that laid the foundations for us to go on and win. I was a bit choked to go in at 1-1 at half-time because it could have been 4-1, but we just had to carry on how we were playing in the second half, which we did. But we now have to put the FA Vase on the backburner, the next round isn't until Januray 21 and there's nothing more we can do about it until then."

"If we are going to achieve what we want to achieve this season then these next few games are absolutely pivotal in getting us into the top five. These are the games that we have to win if we want to compete at the top."

However, Tallentire insists that maximum points from these crucial games is not make or break for Binfield's season.
"The teams that lead this league for long periods generally don't win it," added the Binfield boss "It's generally the teams that come from behind and put a run together at the end. History tells us that the title is decided in the run-in and goes to the team that builds momentum and we are a team that does that. We have to turn a corner in the league now and try to put a run togther that will really show our true title credentials."

The Binfield manager included new signing Dyer in his squad for the visit of Flackwell and he repaid when the striker, operating on the right wing, headed in the third goal. Dyer is well known to Tallentire from their time together at Bracknell Town under Alan Taylor. Dyer, who was originally brought in on a short term basis as cover, could be persuaded to make his move more permanent. He is one of three ex-Robins who have signed at Hill Farm Lane this week, as right-winger Stuart Tanfield and left-back Jamie Clarke have also joined the club. Dyer and Tanfield are expected to start when Ardley visit Hill Farm Lane this afternoon as striker Carl Davies is suspended and midfielders Danny Wing and Carl Withers are unavailable.

Focus - 2 December

Mark Tallentire has warned his side to remain focused ahead of the crucial FA Vase third round qualifying tie against Flackwell Heath on Saturday (3pm ko).

The last time the sides met was the rather traumatic affair in October when James Partridge sustained a career-threatening knee injury. The Heathens won 4-1 but the Moles will be hoping the focus will remain on the pitch rather than on any off the field incidents. Carl Davies added: "I would like to beat them especially as that was the night Pear got injured. It would be nice to get a result for him."

Binfield will do everything they can to make it through to the next round, as Tallentire explains: "It's a chance to progress in this competition. So far we've done quite well, we're in the third round for the first time in the club's history so there's been improvement. We've got to take the Vase more seriously now. To be in the last 32 is the goal for both clubs and we'll both be going for it hammer and tongs on Saturday."

However, he realises the match at Hill Farm Lane will be a 'close' affair. "We're going to be up against one of the form strike partnerships in the league. I need to make sure that the players are focused on the job in hand."

Speaking about the good form of skipper Garry Callaway, who has scored four goals already this term, Tallentire said: "He's improved as a player and a leader this season. Now that he's adding goals to his game, that bodes well for him and for the team. It's my job to find the right partner to play with him."

Kids Go Free - 30 November

Free entry for U16's as Binfield take on Hellenic Premier Division high flyers Flackwell Heath in the FA Vase this coming Saturday.

The Moles should be at full strength, with just one injury concern over Steve Nebbett's recovery from a hamstring strain.
Earlier in the season, Flackwell ran out 4-1 winners in a league encounter, on the night that James Partridge sustained his knee injury 12 minutes into the match. When play restarted, Flackwell quickly took the lead and added another before half time. But the Moles hit back after half time, pulled one back and had chances to draw level, before a red card put a halt to that and Flackwell added two more late on.

Since that match, connections between the clubs have been strengthened, as the Moles efforts to raise funds to help James in his rehabilitation were hugely assisted by a collection held at Flackwell Heath's next home match.

Continuing the Moles FA Vase adventure after a couple of tense matches with Ringmer in the previous round, both side would love to get to the last 32 of this competition, with the chance to face new opposition as the draw moves away from the regional groupings. Both sides like to get the ball down and play, so expect a fast, attacking match.

Wing Soars To 250 Appearances - 27 November

Congratulations to Danny Wing, who marked his 250th Binfield appearance in Saturday 26th November's match at Witney Town with the opening goal midway through the first half.

Now in his ninth season with the Moles, after being brought to the club by current 1st team assistant manager, Richard Whitty as a 21 year old, Wingy's been a first team regular ever since.

The speedy winger's probably Binfield's best runner on the ball and is instrumental in many Binfield goals, as well as consistently weighing in with a few of his own. Saturday's was Wingy's 53rd goal in those 250 appearances and his 3rd so far this season. 2006-7 in Division One East saw his best goal return of 13 from 27 matches.

Now playing at the highest level in his time with the Moles, Dan's added a lot more battling to his obvious qualities on the ball over the last couple of seasons - filling in at left back when called upon last season and even flying in to the odd tackle or two back in his own penalty area when needed.

He also earned the nickname "Killer" with his team mates, by flattening Nebs in training a couple of seasons back! So he's braver than you might think....

Highlight of his Binfield career is probably being a key player in the club's Division One East title winning side of 2008-9 season, when Wingy played almost every match, scoring 8 times in the process.

Great work Danny - we look forward to many more starts and goals in the coming seasons.

Premier League Trial For Ex Hellenic Player - 26 November

Former Binfield winger Luke Williams, has been offered a one-week trial with Barclays Premier League newboys Swansea City and is just waiting for the all-important phone call.

Binfield teammate Carl Davies advises 21-year-old Williams was at Reading Academy when Swans manager Brendan Rodgers was coach but was released at 16, although Davies revealed that Rodgers was 'a massive fan' of Williams. The youngster will have a crack at impressing him once again after excelling this season at Blue Square Bet Premier side Hayes & Yeading.

Davies has witnessed Williams' talents first hand, having played with him at Woodley Town, in Hellenic Division One East, and then Binfield. It is something of a meteoric rise for Williams but former team-mate and Welshman Davies said: "I always knew he would do well. We were blessed to have him at both Woodley and Binfield. He should be a professional player. The sky's the limit for him."

Speaking to the Bracknell News, Davies added: "He's ridiculously fast. He may be a slight lad but he's very strong, got quick feet and is very good in the air. He's got great vision and awareness and a good attitude. He's always willing to learn and to listen to others."

The impact the speed merchant had at the Moles was phenomenal, as Davies explains: "He was a great asset. He propelled us up to second in the table and I don't think we would have finished second without him. He won games on his own, against Highworth away in only his second game, and then at Kidlington he scored twice with solo efforts. He's got that in his locker. It was a gift to play with him. He's the best player I've ever played with in my 10 years in football."

Woodley Town manager Cyril Fairchild helped Williams return to the game after he was released by Reading. Fairchild explained: "He had lost all his confidence and needed someone to put an arm round his shoulder and that was me. We got him back playing football again and he was so happy. It makes me proud to see him doing so well. I wish him all the best. It's a big commitment. He's got to keep his head down and do the right things."

Kids Go Free - 21 November

Free entry for U16's at tonight's FACarlsberg Vase replay at Binfield FC - kick off 7.45pm.

Join us for top class non league football as the Moles host Ringmer from the Sussex County League Division One in this FA Carlsberg Vase second round replay.

Come and lend your support to Binfield FC if you can - Adults £6 Concessions £4 and Kids Free - Cmon you Moles....

Rehabilitation Fund For Partridge - 21 October

The club will be collecting money to donate to James Partridge as he starts on his road to recovery from the knee injury he sustained in Tuesday night's defeat at Flackwell Heath. Long standing friends and co-players, Dan Weait and Carl Withers have come up with the idea of creating the fund for Pear, to initially get him an iPad to help brighten up his stay in hospital - with any balance to be used to help with Pear's rehabilitation. Dan and Carl are working with Pear's playing colleagues to donate money and the club will be collecting donations throughout the day.

Chairman, Bob Bacon commented: "We're concerned about the welfare of all of our players and we will give every assistance possible to Pear (Partridge) during his convalescence. He is a valued part of our club and we will continue treating him like that. This is one way that we can start to help and the club are looking at all other options where we can assist." He went on to add "I will  also find him some black dubbing, so he can cover those garish coloured boots whenever he is back playing again".
Donations to the fund can be made in to Binfield FC officials, Bob Bacon, Rob Challis or Colin Byers or via his playing colleagues Dan Weait and Carl Withers.

In some better news for Partridge, he will shortly move to either Chelsea and Westminster or the John Radcliffe Hospital (Oxford), where he will undergo specialist knee reconstruction surgery in the near future. From his hospital bed in Wexham Park yesterday he commented "I'm hoping to be moved my the weekend so I can got the op out of the way and start my rehab! Once I'm out I'll be going to every game I can make."

Pear's also been offered assistance on his recovery by the physio at his work and playing colleague, Paul Mortimer. So while it will be a long road back, he's in the best frame of mind to get going.

Partridge Taken To Hospital - 19 October

Binfields' long serving and ever reliable full back, James Partridge suffered a nasty knee injury last night just 12 minutes into the defeat at Flackwell Heath, last night. Turning to chase back, Pear's knee gave way and he stayed down, clearly in considerable pain.

Never one to make any fuss about a hard challenge, it was obviously a bad injury from the moment "Pear" (Partridge} stayed down and the match was stopped for half an hour, while he received treatment and an ambulance was called. Credit to the ambulance service who were there within 10 minutes of the incident and took James to Wexham Park Hospital in Slough once he was stabilised (and high on gas!)

Latest update from hospital is that he has dislocated and torn all but one ligament in his knee and will need surgery at some point, possibly as soon as Wednesday, to be confirmed after further assessment.

A clearly shaken Mark Tallentire said after the match "He's (James) been a massive part of Binfield over the last 5 or 6 years.... obviously our thoughts go out to James and his family."

Football secretary, Rob Challis added "The club will do all that it can to help Pear".

All at Binfield FC wish Pear a speedy recovery, not least because he earns his living as a fitness instructor, so he clearly needs to be back on his feet as soon as possible. On the bright side, we're hoping that his high fitness level will help him back into the gym to start his rehabilitation and on the road to recovery as quickly as possible.

We also very much hope to see Pear add to his 182 Moles appearances at some point in the future.

Happy So Far . . . But - 30 September

With 10 games gone in their Hellenic Premier Division season, Binfield manager Mark Tallentire insists he is generally happy with how things have gone at Hill Farm Lane so far.

The one exception, however, is the goals against column on the league table, which in Tallentire's eyes, does not make for pleasant reading. Despite amassing 20 points from 10 games, scoring 27 goals in the process and remaining unbeaten at home, the Moles boss is not completely happy. He has now challenged his defenders to up their game if they are to stand any chance of fulfilling their ambitions of winning the league this season.

Despite being relatively strong in the defensive positions, injuries to centre-backs Ryan Millward and Neil Hancock, as well as captain and fellow defender Gary Callaway being unavaliable due to work commitments, Tallentire has had to shuffle his defence numerous times already. Although he admits this could have been a factor in Binfield conceding 16 in 10 in the league, he has also been less than impressed with some of his defenders' decision making.

"We are conceding goals at the moment and it is something we really need to address," he said. "It's a worry, he biggest I have at the moment. We have got goals in our team, and our goals for column is up there with the others, but our goals against is shocking. I have to do something about it and if it means leaving out players who aren't hitting form then I will have to do that. I'm not bringing anyone else in, though, because all we need is a bit of fine tuning as we have got quality in the squad. The main thing that's happening at the moment is that we're not doing enough to stop crosses into the box and both our full-backs are looking flakey in that regard. We're also not dealing with the balls into the area positively enough. I also want to see a bit more consistency. We've let slip two-goal leads twice this season and there is a pattern there, which shows we need to be consistent for the whole game. One or two players haven't started the season in great form, but time is on our side and with a bit of work we will get things right. We're only coming into October so it's still early doors and nothing really starts taking shape until after Christmas."

Tallentire may be forced to make some defensive changes ahead of Saturday's home game with Kidlington (3pm kick-off) as full-backs James Partridge and Paul Mortimer are both carrying knocks from Monday night's 1-1 draw at home to Thame United.
Binfield could climb to second in the table should they beat Kidlington and other results go their way. With their league position already looking rather healthy,  the Binfield boss admits he is still happy with the start to the campaign, despite the apparent defensive frailties.

"We have had a much better start than last year," he said. "If someone had offered me 20 points at this stage of the season then I would have probably taken it, especially when you consider the amount of players we've had missing. We're just tucked in behind the top sides and every team will have a bad spell where results don't go for them. We just have to keep on winning where we can and hope that we hit the kind of form that we have shown in the final straight during past seasons. Kidlington have lost a few players and a bit of experience from last season, but we will still be wary of them. We will treat them with the utmost respect, but we will have to go out on Saturday and do a job on them."

One Step Better - 16 September

Binfield coach Keith Pennicott-Bowen has challenged the club's players to build on their impressive start to the Hellenic Premier Division season and go one step better than last year.

The Moles narrowly missed out on top spot in the division last term, but wouldn't have earned promotion to the Southern League because of the ground regulations. However, with the club working hard off the field to meet the requirements, the pressure is on for the team to emulate the success of last season.

Binfield have lost just once in six league games so far, although they dropped two vital points during Monday night's 2-2 with Holyport. But with every other team in the division also dropping points, Binfield haven't really lost any ground on their promotion rivals. The Moles also showed that they have the ability to compete at the level above after an impressive performance against Slough Town in the FA Cup two weeks ago.

Pennicott-Bowen wants to see his players continue their good start, starting this tomorrow away at newly-promoted Cheltenham Saracens, one of Binfield's longest road trips in the league. "We've got ambitions this season and we need to finish in the top two again," he said to The Bracknell Forest Standard. "We want to go to the next level and we're geared up for the next level on and off the pitch. The pressure is on myself, Mark Tallentire, the chairman and the players, but we have put that pressure on ourselves. We now have to soak that pressure up and come up with the results. We learned a lot against Slough. They looked a step above us in the first 15 minutes but we grew into the game and for 35 or 40 minutes either side of half-time we took the game to them and posed them a few questions and could have gone ahead."

Moles For Sunday Lunch? - 1 September

The Moles travel to Slough Town this coming Sunday, in fine form, having won their last three matches, all by three clear goals.

Facing opposition from the next step up in the pyramid, Binfield will have their work cut out, as their hosts have made a good start to their season in the Evo-Stik South League Division One Central, currently lying 3rd after 6 games, with 4 wins, 1 draw and 1 defeat. Like Binfield, The Rebels have a strike force who are firing on all cylinders in the early part of the season as Danny Burnell and Sean Sonner already have 5 and 4 goals to their names this season. And while it's dangerous to draw many comparisons from pre-season friendlies, the Rebels solitary defeat to date was at home at the hands of Burnham, who beat Slough 2-1 midweek last week and also beat the Moles 2-0 in a late July friendly. The game will be a great chance for Binfield's finest to test themselves against higher opposition in a competitive match, with a trip to Banbury United from the Evo-Stik South League Premier Division waiting in the 1st Qualifying round.

Let's make it a bumper crowd at Slough on Sunday lunch time and travel in force. Slough Town share Beaconsfield SYCOB's ground, which can be found at

Holloways Park,
Slough Road,
Beaconsfield,
Bucks,
HP9 2SG

Leave M40 at Junction 2, take A355 towards Slough, only 50 yards off the roundabout on the A355 is slip road on right with sign giving Club name. Turn right through gate and clubhouse is 200 metres on the right. The ground is 'signposted' from both sides of the carriageway (A355).

Carl Withers Makes It 300! - 23 August

After the FA Cup win over Reading Town, AFC Wimbledon manager Terry Brown presented Moles midfield star, Carl Withers with a commemorative platter marking his 300th Binfield appearance.

The popular, ball playing midfielder marked his milestone with a well taken goal from 22 yards and enjoyed the perfect evening.

Making his debut in 2002-03, Withers was a key part of the 2008-9 promotion winning side, scoring 4 goals in 42 appearances in that successful side. It's an exciting time for him too as he turns 30 this Saturday and got engaged to long time partner, Lauren, on holiday last month, planning a summer 2012 wedding – in the close season!

We're hoping to see 500 appearances at least Carl.....

Back On The Cup Trial - 20 August

Binfield make the short trip to Reading Town on today in the Extra Preliminary round of the FA Cup.

Missing several players, the Moles will travel to Town determined to put last Wednesday's defeat to Oxford City Nomads behind them. These sides have had good hard battles over the last couple of seasons. Having met 6 times in cup and league, the Moles have won one of those meetings, when they clinched runner up in the league last April on the last day of the season, while Town have come out on top twice. First in Binfield's first season in the Premier Division at Hill Farm Lane two years ago and in the first leg of a two leg cup semi final of the AM Print and Copy floodlit cup later on that season. But the other three meetings have ended in draws, so there's rarely much to choose between the sides. The prize awaiting the winners is a trip to Slough Town and both sides would fancy a crack at local opposition from a step up the pyramid.

On the same day as this match, Moles midfield star (and former Town player) James Suarez gets married to April Hester. All at Binfield FC send James and Hester very best wishes for their day.

"Kit" and Ready - 12 August

Binfield's new kit, bearing the club's new sponsor "Stewarts" was unveiled at the Press Evening on Thursday, as final preparations for the season opening were being completed.

Full credit must go to Micky Baldry and Bob Ellis, who continue to improve the Hill Farm Lane playing surface and have turned out a fantastic pitch for the start of the season that will be the envy of many visitors.

On the playing side, the team are looking fit and ready to face Shortwood United at Hill Farm Lane on Saturday, kick off 3pm, knowing that the opening match will be one of the stiffest tests they could start with. But Shortwood will know too that the Moles are a match for anyone when on their game and these two sides typically have good entertaining battles as both sides play attractive, fast paced football. Manager, Mark Tallentire has most of his squad available to select from for the first match, except Carl Davies who is suspended and Ryan MIllward. But with an enlarged squad from last season, competition for places is strong and should push the players who do start to make their mark. Add your voice to support the Moles on Saturday, as they look to get off to a winning start.

Moles Press Evening - 10 August

The Final Piece? - 28 July

After impressing in several pre-season friendlies, Binfield have signed Adam Jeffrey which will probably complete the starting squad as the team head into their last three pre-season matches, all now at home. A pacey winger, who's always looking to beat the last man and get in a cross, Jeffrey has fitted in to the squad well and will look to provide the ammunition for the Moles three main strikers. At just 21, he's a great prospect and will be making the step up to the premier division, after spending last season with Woodley Town.

Tuesday night saw the Moles final away pre-season friendly – and another good performance in beating Combind Counties League outfit Badshot Lea 2-1. Callum Whitty got on the scoresheet for the third time already in pre-season and a late own goal presented the win to Mark Tallentire's side. We now move on to three challenging home friendlies, starting with Burnham this Saturday (30th July KO 3pm). Then Didcot Town first team visit Hill Farm Lane on Tuesday next week (KO 7.45pm) followed by a final pre-season match against Newbury on Saturday 6th August (KO 2pm)

Binfield Signings - 26 July

With just about all of last season's first team squad now signed back up for the coming season, Mark Tallentire's management team have added some fresh faces to improve the vital strength in depth for a long season ahead.

CALLUM WHITTY returns after a season at near neighbours, Bracknell Town. Having first played for Binfield in the 2003-4 season, he brings great physical presence to the front line and already has 58 Binfield goals to his name from 208 competitive appearances. He also has the ability to fill in almost any position on the pitch and will be a valuable addition.
MIKE HANCOCK will add experience and another option at the heart of the defence. A long servant of Reading Town, he reads the game well and proved popular with the Town supporters, with his regular whole hearted performances, battling for every ball in the air and on the ground. Joining last season's meanest Hellenic Premier Division defence, he'll add to the options in those crucial positions.
NICK BATEMAN joins from Wokingham & Emmbrook, bringing his attack minded midfield creativity to the side. He'll also bring some aggression to our midfield to help shore things up when the going gets tough and win the midfield battles for the ball. At just 21, Nick's got a lot of football ahead of him and plenty of energy to get from back to front.
DAN JEWELL can operate capably anywhere across the defence, spending most of his time at full back. Stepping up the the Premier Division this year, having spent last season with Woodley Town, Dan has looked very capable in pre-season so far and will be pressing hard for a starting berth in the side.

Moles Back In Training - 1July

The Binfield first team and reserves started pre-season training last night at St Crispin's School, Wokingham.

There was a great turn out for the first session as the Moles prepare for another assault on the top positions in the Uhlsport Hellenic Premier Division.

37 players hit the fitness trail in sessions organised by Mark Tallentire's management team, with Keith Pennicott-Bowen putting the lads through their paces, assisted by Richard Whitty, Carl Bennett and reserves manager Ed Carpenter. Almost all of last season's squad returned to training, alongside several new faces training with Binfield, as Tallentire and club secretary Rob Challis look to confirm the playing staff for the new season over the coming weeks. Binfield's programme of pre-season matches starts on Saturday 9th July, when they face Finchampstead at Cantley Park, kick off 2pm.

Much better news for keeper, Dan Weait, as his most recent tests from his eye injury sustained in late March, showed that he is almost back to full fitness. A huge boost for both Dan and the Moles after a solid season last time around, including Player of the Month fo March, Dan joined pre-season training with the squad this week.

Rising Star's - 15th June

Binfield FC's Soccer School youngsters starred in last weekend's Camberley Town Festival of Football.

Playing in front of several Reading FC scouts, Bob Bacon and Bob Chappell's two teams of four players won 7 and drew 1 of their 8 matches, scoring 25 goals in the process. And afterwards several of the Binfield team were invited to train with Reading FC, following hot on the heels of Fulham inviting Binfield to send a team to their forthcoming tournament.

Binfield's Soccer School is where it all starts for many of the football mad youngsters up to the age of 6, with Bob and Bob, plus several other helpers, regularly having 35-40 players every Sunday morning at Hill Farm Lane. Partnerships with both Binfield and Meadowbank schools have seen numbers swell as Binfield FC start local players on the road, with a strong emphasis on basic soccer skills and enjoying the game. Once the players reach under-7s, they move in to league football and this year Binfield are starting with two under 7 teams – and possibly a third to accommodate all those who want to play.

As the players near the end of Soccer School, the tournaments start to introduce them to match play and this crop of Binfield youngsters obviously caught the eye. With any newcomers welcome, Soccer School at Binfield starts again in September and any newcomers will be made very welcome at Hill Farm Lane.

Whitty Returns & Further "Moles" Developments - 13th June

Binfield FC are delighted to confirm that, after spending last season with neighbours Bracknell Town, Richard Whitty has returned to Hill Farm Lane as assistant manager to Mark Tallentire. Last season's assistant, Keith Pennicott-Bowen also continues in his role with Tallentire, providing the Moles with a strong and experienced management team as they aim to continue last season's success on the pitch – and improve wherever they can.

On his return, Whitty said "I'm delighted to be back at Binfield and am really looking forward to it. Mark [Tallentire] stepped up to manager last season and did a fantastic job with Keith [Pennicott-Bowen]. Binfield have a great chance to win things this year and it's a great opportunity for me. If I can make just 1% difference, that could be enough to win a trophy. As a club, Binfield are heading in the right direction, with ground improvements and so many teams from all age groups. Whether it's the under 7s or the seniors, I see them all as important as each other and am pleased to be a part of it."

Tallentire also confirmed on Friday that he has spoken to all of last season's hugely successful playing staff and they have all confirmed that they are returning for the new season with the Moles. Talking to Binfield TV (www.youtube.com/binfieldfctv), Tallentire commented "...we just fell at the last hurdle last time around, but that experience will hold us in good stead for this coming season.... The squad's shaping up nicely for next season. Obviously the players have had a deluge of offers since the season finished, but what we have got here at Binfield is a very close knit group of players. We're very focussed on what we want to do, the players don't want for anything here and it's a very player friendly club..... at the end of the day, they've chosen to stay here and I applaud that as I really feel that this group of players is on the cusp of doing something really special."

Confirming that Whitty was returning to be part of his management team Tallentire says he will offer an extra angle and alternative view in training and during matches. He commented "to me it strengthens our hand at the top end of the management team.... Keith's role won't change – he's been fantastic for us. I think it's important to bring someone else in – for the players, it's another voice and Richard's got some good ideas. I'm looking for Richard to come in alongside me and bring some of his ideas to the team".

With pre-season training less than three weeks away, everyone at Binfield is preparing for another exciting season, which gets under way with fixtures starting from Saturday 9th July.


With last season's first choice stopper, Dan Weait (right), still suffering from the effects of a nasty eye injury sustained towards the end of Binfield's win over Ardley United in late March, Moles manager, Mark Tallentire has moved to bring another top quality keeper to Hill Farm Lane.

Chris Grace (left) is returning to the Moles to fight it out with Weait for the number one shirt – and Weait's injury apart, Tallentire's pleased to have competition for the place between two quality keepers.... "it's a position that's vital to the team. I've kept a close eye on Chris and he's one of the top up and coming keepers in the area and I'm glad that he's agreed to come here. That doesn't mean to say that Dan's going to lose his place, all it means is that Dan's in a fight with Chris to the place, like he was last season with Chris Adams. And competition for places is vital in all positions".

Grace arrives having spent most of last season with Ascot United, after starting the season with Thatcham Town and before that at Reading Town under Colin Millard, who he followed to Thatcham. Moles fans will be familiar with Grace after he spent some time on loan with the Moles a few years ago, but more recently he put in a fine performance in Binfield's 2-2 draw at Ascot last October, when he made a string of fine saves to keep his team on level terms at half time. Not long after that match, he sustained a nasty injury that kept him out for several months, but he returned to the Ascot side late in the season.

Meanwhile, Weait continues treatment on his eye, with a trip to Moorfields Eye hospital in the next few days. All at Binfield FC wish Dan well on his recovery and look forward to seeing him back to full fitness.

Binfield FC are also delighted to announce a major new club sponsor as Stewarts of Mortimer (Private Hire) Ltd step up their support of the club. Having been involved with the club for the last 5 years, Stewarts have increased their commitment many fold, as they now become the club's main sponsor, with an overall commitment that takes the club's assistance "to a new level".

Stewarts are one of the area's leading luxury travel operators, providing recent high profile sports travel to events including the corporate travel to the Champions League final at Wembley for their client, Sony, plus providing 44 coaches (with some help from partners) for the army of Reading FC fans that travelled to Manchester City for the FA Cup quarter final.

"At Stewarts our philosophy is to ensure that our customer's expectations are met by providing a high quality, professional, service at competitive rates. Stewarts ~ providing quality without compromise."

On BinfieldFC TV last friday night, Binfield chairman, Bob Bacon said "We're delighted to be working with Stewarts of Mortimer. They're sponsoring the senior end of the club and some elements of the Juniors too. We have a couple of other people we're talking to as well that will put us on a slightly different footing than we've had before and will give us some real financial stability for the club."

Binfield Pre-Season - 7th June

With a new soccer season not far away and the players on countdown to pre-season in just a few weeks, there's lots of activity at Hill Farm Lane.

We're pleased to announce our pre-season fixture dates as follows....
9th July - v Finchampstead at Cantley - 3pm
16th July - away v Beaconsfield SYCOB - 3pm
19th July - away v Windsor FC - 7.45pm
23rd July - away v Godalming & Guildford - 3pm
26th July - away v Badshot Lea - 7.45pm
30th July - home v Burnham - 3pm
2nd August - home v Didcot Town - 7.45pm
6th August - home v Newbury – 3pm

Some good and challenging fixtures, as the Moles prepare for a third season in the top flight of the Hellenic League, aiming to pick up from a great finish to last season – and not doubt like many others, targetting top spot this time around.

We are also hosting a Press Day on the evening of Thursday 11th August, where the full squad for the start of the season will be presented.