retired_brinker317

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Crossman:
I'm guessing you've visited the New Bucks Head, as you called it 'impressive'. An excellent derby against Shrewsbury last night, one-nil victory for Telford.

As for the story, I'm enjoying the separate news articles greatly, and the layout is excellent. Good luck for the future.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Never been there, but from the picture in my Non League Ground Guide, it is indeed a most impressive stadium - hopefully they can secure the future with all the current financial problems. Glad you're enjoying the story - I've had a number of layouts over the years, but this is certainly one I prefer.


Sunday morning, and Denmark's favourite Scouser is out of a job - Jan Molby sacked by Kidderminster Harriers .

Monday, meanwhile, would see bids for recently transfer-listed striker Ian Pulman . Fairway accepted both offers, with Yeovil offering £5000, and Accrington Stanley £1000 as well as left-sided full back Mark Coulson . Fairway was delighted to have been offered Coulson, a player spotted by scout Stephen Hall some time ago, and offered the defender a deal.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>

www.wokingfc.co.uk - News - Tuesday 8/1/08

'Kenny in Injury Woe'

"Young defender Micheal Kenny pulled up with a Groin Strain this morning in training. The Scot will be out for around a week".

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Aldershot Town v Woking - League

Unavailable

Scott Canham - Injured - (Hamstring, 1 Month)
Joe McNab - Injured - (Jaw, 1 Week)

Aldershot - the first opponents of Fairway's Woking reign. That day saw a very comprehensive 4-0 win at Kingfield as the new regime was ushered in with a big breath of fresh air. With no new injury worries, Fairway decided to keep his side unchanged. On a wet, miserable evening, Woking started well - Baugley and Frecklington coming close inside the opening 10 minutes. It would be Aldershot though who had the first real chance on goal - brave defending by Jon Boardman muscling out Shots striker Slaven. The first half was generally poor - Moran's shot blocked inside the area on 40 probably Woking's best chance - but the pitch and weather was clearly having an impact, with Kevin Hill in particular suffering from some wayward passes in the high winds. He would be replaced at the break - new signing Davies coming on, and almost having an instant impact - a 48th minute shot coming close from 25 yards. As the game drifted to a conclusion, neither side seemed to have what it would take to win the game - a lacklustre performance from both sides. Substitutions livened things up, but would be too little, too late to affect the result.

Aldershot 0 - Woking 0

Woking; 4-4-2; Bayes, Turner, Narada, Boardman, MacDonald*, O'Brien, Baugley (Replaced 83 Wallis), Hill (Replaced 45 Davies), Frecklington, Foyewa (Replaced 45 Collymore), Moran

Woking Position After Game; 2nd

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">| Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | | Darlington | | 26 | 21 | 2 | 3 | 54 | 16 | +38 | 65 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | | Woking | | 26 | 13 | 7 | 6 | 47 | 25 | +22 | 46 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | Barnet | | 26 | 13 | 7 | 6 | 51 | 34 | +17 | 46 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Farnborough | | 26 | 14 | 3 | 9 | 50 | 42 | +8 | 45 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 5th | | Scarborough | | 25 | 13 | 5 | 7 | 48 | 30 | +18 | 44 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 6th | | Southport | | 26 | 11 | 7 | 8 | 46 | 44 | +2 | 40 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 7th | | Kettering | | 26 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 41 | 32 | +9 | 39 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 8th | | Shrewsbury | | 26 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 32 | 29 | +3 | 39 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 9th | | Forest Green | | 26 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 40 | 31 | +9 | 38 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 10th | | Kidderminster | | 26 | 11 | 5 | 10 | 42 | 46 | -4 | 38 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 11th | | Halifax | | 25 | 9 | 10 | 6 | 42 | 35 | +7 | 37 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 12th | | Bury | | 25 | 11 | 3 | 11 | 40 | 42 | -2 | 36 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 13th | | Nuneaton Borough | | 26 | 11 | 3 | 12 | 35 | 43 | -8 | 36 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 14th | | Yeovil | | 26 | 9 | 7 | 10 | 43 | 48 | -5 | 34 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 15th | | Macclesfield | | 26 | 9 | 5 | 12 | 45 | 56 | -11 | 32 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 16th | | Morecambe | | 25 | 7 | 10 | 8 | 42 | 48 | -6 | 31 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 17th | | Aldershot | | 26 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 32 | 39 | -7 | 29 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 18th | | Burton Albion | | 25 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 35 | 42 | -7 | 26 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 19th | | Canvey Island | | 26 | 5 | 7 | 14 | 18 | 38 | -20 | 22 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 20th | | Enfield | | 26 | 2 | 12 | 12 | 16 | 37 | -21 | 18 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 21st | | Leigh RMI | | 25 | 5 | 3 | 17 | 29 | 51 | -22 | 18 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 22nd | | Telford | | 26 | 3 | 8 | 15 | 19 | 39 | -20 | 17 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| </pre>

retired_brinker317

Wednesday morning, and another bid for striker Ian Pulman - Tamworth offering £5000 for the young front man. Fairway's preferred offer - though he had little say in the matter - was certainly that of Accrington, and when Mark Coulson rang to say that the terms of the contract were acceptable, Fairway knew that only Pulman could now decide if the fullback would move to Kingfield.

Meanwhile, Woking would welcome another trialist - Phil Collier arriving for a fortnight.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>

www.wokingfc.co.uk - Features - Thursday 10/1/08

'Meet The New Boy - Phil Collier'

"Woking have this morning taken defender Phil Collier on trial for a fortnight. Phil is a centre back, who can also play on the left of defence. At 18 he is imposing for his age, and it is this which persuaded manager Stuart Fairway to offer him a trial.

Phil was born in Willenhall, near Wolverhampton - growing up just streets away from Cards striker Lee Collymore , but made his breakthrough in football at mighty Manchester United. After joining United's Youth Academy at the age of 12, Collier signed a first year professional contract in the summer of 2007, ready for this season.

Unfortunatley things didn't work out for Phil at Old Trafford, and he was let go just three days into the new year. Phil will no doubt hope that his spell at Woking will bring his professional football career back on track.

Report by Chris Bonner
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Thursday afternoon - and more bids on the Kingfield fax machine. Scottish fullback Stuart Sangster looks set to leave the club, with Fairway accepting £5000 offers from Accrington Stanley, Yeovil and Scottish side Arbroath. As part of the deal that brought him to Kingfield, former side Scarborough will get 20% of the transfer fee, whichever destination Sangster decides upon.

Meanwhile Phil Collier's Woking debut would come in a thoroughly miserable performance for the Under 19's. Collier was part of the side thumped 4-0 by Southampton.

Ian Pulman made up his mind on Friday - leaving Woking for £5000 to join Tamworth - torpedoing Fairway's hopes of landing the impressive Coulson. Friday would also see Colin Ball appointed as Telford boss, charged with the task of keeping the Bucks in the Conference.

Farnborough Town v Woking - FA Trophy Third Round

Unavailable

Scott Canham - Injured - (Hamstring, 1 Month)
Joe McNab - Injured - (Jaw, 5 Days)

With Foyewa not particularly impressive at Aldershot, Fairway again rang the changes in a bid to find his best strike partnership - Lee Collymore brought back in to partner Kyle Moran, also perhaps in - temporary at least - last chance saloon. The game began quietly, with only Rob O'Brien's thunderous drive on 20 - a shot flying into the side netting from fully 30 yards - a chance of note. On 25 though it would be the home side who took the lead - Danny Potter with a really classy, individual goal. Picking up the ball inside his own half, he passed to McCormack in the centre circle, who's return ball completely bypassed MacDonald and the covering Narada. Potter nipped on - took the ball to the edge of the area, and beat 'keeper Bayes with a low shot into the corner. Eight minutes later Farnborough doubled their lead, turning Defence into attack with a stunning long pass. McKenzie siezed a loose ball on the edge of his own area, before balooning a ball forward - dropping deep into the Woking half for Danny Potter to again run on and slot past Bayes. Woking then closed shop - though Baugley came close before the break - until the second half. After a tounge-lashing from manager Fairway, the Cards came out with two substitutions and what looked a better approach. On 51 Foyewa hit a superb ball over the top for O'Brien to cross. With plenty of targets, Farnborough panicked - Turner fouled - and Rob O'Brien able to slot home the resulting penalty. The optimisim, however, wouldn't last too long. On 66 Matthews intercepted in midfield, moving the ball quickly wide to Sinclair - his cross powered home by a Ross McCormack header. Again Woking weren't to be outdone, and within two minutes, had pulled themselves back into the game. On 68 O'Brien played the early ball into the area, and after carefully bringing it down, Amos Foyewa cracked the ball past 'keeper Findlay and into the roof of the net to bring grudging admiration from even the home support. Any comeback though would be killed off on 80 - Mark Hurst's thunderous drive into the corner giving Bayes no chance. It livened up what had become a stoic closing spell of the game, but the worst was still to come for Woking. Two minutes into injury time 'keeper Ashley Bayes came 10 yards out of his area to claim a Sinclair chip forward. Confusion ensued - 'keeper and defenders took their eyes off the ball, giving Richard Hodgson a spectacular, but easy, shot from 30 yards into the unguarded net. Dismal.

Farnborough 5 - Woking 2

Woking; 4-4-2; Bayes, Turner, Narada, Boardman, MacDonald*, O'Brien, Baugley, Hill, Frecklington (Replaced 45 Davies), Collymore (Replaced 45 Foyewa), Moran

retired_brinker317

Sunday morning, and after another disapointing local derby, there's little time to pause and reflect at Kingfield with a busy day on the transfer front. After accepting a £5000 morning offer for Stuart Sangster from Boston United , Fairway found that the fullback had already made up his mind - £4000 to Woking, and £1000 to Scarborough with Sangster making the move to Yeovil . A potential replacement - in the form of a trialist - also arrived, while Bury assistant John Cunningham stepped up to take the hotseat at Kidderminster Harriers - Woking's opponents next Saturday.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>

www.wokingfc.co.uk - Features - Monday 14/1/08

'Darren Johnson - Meet The New Boy'

"The latest in a series of players offered 2-week trials at Kingfield, Darren Johnson is another defender. Left footed, Darren can play at left back or in the centre of defence, and is a brace, hardworking player.

Born in Leicester, Darren joined his hometown club as a scholar, and was offered a first-year professional contract in the summer. Signing as a Premier League footballer, Darren quickly settled in to become a regular at Under 19 level at the Walkers Stadium, and also made one substitute appearance for the reserves. Suprisingly for a defender, he scored five times in those 13 games, and with his height a particular threat at set pieces.

Darren was released on the 8th of January - his 18th birthday - but has quickly linked up with Woking, and will want to bounce back as soon as possible."

Report by Chris Bonner
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Tuesday, and another Paul Lynch goal - although they needed a late brace from striker Thomas Ward - put Woking on their way to a 3-1 Reserve win over Southport. Though the result was encouraging, Fairway was more pleased to see that both trialists had a good game - Johnson operating at left back, with Collier in the centre of defence. In what was quickly turning into a good week for the club, Fairway also welcomed Joe McNab back after injury.

An early start on Saturday for Fairway - an 11AM kickoff for the Under 19's providing the opportunity to watch some football ahead of being involved on the touchline in the afternoon. It was a thoroughly pleasant experience for the Woking manager too, as Matt Crossley's youngsters thrashed Barnet 3-0 - with trialist Collier amongst the goalscorers - young Lynch sealing the win seven minutes from time. Fairway left at half time - a trip up to Kidderminster at breakneck speed seeing him arrive after the main body of the team, but comfortably before kickoff.

Kidderminster Harriers v Woking - League

Unavailable

Scott Canham - Injury - (Hamstring, 4 Weeks)

With only long-term injury victim Canham on the sidelines, Fairway chose to make one change to the starting eleven, with loanee Moran rested and Amos Foyewa handed a starting berth. On a cold, wet day, Fairway was able to see first-hand the task that new Harriers boss Cunningham has ahead of him - Aggborough less than a third full. Woking began brightly as well, with midfield dynamo Lee Frecklington leading a couple of early raids - a 12th minute shot forcing 'keeper Kostantopaulos into a block, rather than a catch. On 14 the Cards did break through - an early lead a hallmark of Woking under Fairway - with some brave running from Foyewa seeing the ball break to Lee Collymore on the edge of the area - the 16-goal striker making no mistake with a shot under the diving 'keeper. Woking lost the iniative on 26 though - midfielder Frecklington off after a heavy challenge - and had a quiet end to the half, although sub Davies saw a snap shot well held on 40. Kidderminster started the second half the better side - Bennett shooting wide on 55 before the Harriers levelled on the hour. A good move found Chris Turner forced into a clearance - but Bell reached the loose ball first, returning the ball into the box for Bo Henriksen to fire past 'keeper Bayes. Woking, clearly annoyed at seeing their lead lost, piled on the pressure - though on 80 it took a one-handed stop from Bayes to deny Henriksen. Finally, with a minute to go, the Cards did clinch a deserved winner. A good ball into the area from Narada found Davies, who pulled the ball back. Amos Foyewa set up the chance, holding off a defender before passing into the path of sub Jonathan Wallis to strike through a crowd, and into the far corner. It was nothing less than Woking's resolute performance deserved, and Fairway can be justly proud of his side after sterling work at the back.

Kidderminster 1 - Woking 2 (Collymore, Wallis)

Woking; 4-4-2; Bayes, Turner, Narada, Boardman, MacDonald*, O'Brien, Baugley (Replaced 45 Wallis), Hill, Frecklington (Replaced 26 Davies), Collymore, Foyewa

Woking Position After Game; 3rd

retired_brinker317

Sunday morning, and after a win comes the inquest. This time though, it's on injuries rather than results - and Amos Foyewa is hardest hit. He came off complaining of a stiff shoulder, and physio Marc Martin has recomended a 2-week rest period for the Nigerian. For Lee Frecklington the chest injury that saw him replaced is little to worry about, and he should be fit in time for Wednesday's game. One player definatley out of that game though is Narada - a booking against Kidderminster taking him to five, and an automatic one-game ban.

On Tuesday Fairway made the long trip northwards with the reserves for a game against Carlisle. Perhaps silly in the game's current financial climate to be playing second string games against such geographically different opposition, but needs must, and Fairway was pleased to see the side come back with a 2-2 draw. Common sense prevailed with an afternoon, rather than evening, kickoff, and both trialist defenders played. Unfortunatley, for Phil Collier it's the end of the line - although the former Manchester United man shouldn't be too downhearted, with other clubs said to be interested.

For Darren Johnson though things are a lot better - Fairway offering the former Leicester player a four-year contract, and the chance to really establish himself at Kingfield.

Burton Albion v Woking - League

Unavailable

Scott Canham - Injured - (Hamstring, 3 Weeks)
Amos Foyewa - Injured - (Shoulder, 1 Week)
Narada - Suspended - (1 of 1)

A third away game in a row, and a chance for Woking to potentially go above Barnet and back to second place, ahead of the Bees visit on Saturday. With Foyewa injured, Fairway recalled Moran in attack, and also handed a first start to new signing Chris Davies at left back after Narada's suspension. Burton began the better side, the Brewers impressing greatly - and on 14, took a deserved lead through skipper Darren Stride - the midfielder belting home Henshaw's brilliant cross from just inside the area. Burton were now in dominant mood, and after coming close on 21 through Patchett, doubled their lead in truly bizzare circumstances through Steven Gilbert on 31. After siezing on a loose ball, Rob O'Brien found himself tackled by his former teammate in the centre circle. Gilbert turned, and spotted the run of Foster to the edge of the area. Hitting the ball from inside his own half, the ball sailed over Foster, MacDonald and 'keeper Bayes, who had anticipated the pass and came to narrow the angle. His face said it all - Gilbert scoring a truly amazing goal, and Burton's army of supporters delighted and amazed. The goal though galvanised Woking, and with their first attack, the Cards pulled one back. On 34 Lee Frecklington moved the ball forward early on, and though Lee Collymore had work to do, he pulled the ball past defender Champion before scoring with a powerful shot past 'keeper Keeling. Burton began the second half as they had the first - determined to put the game beyond reach. Foster came close on 52 - Bayes' save no doubt giving him confidence after his early howler - but Woking still seemed in the game. After changes - the ineffective Moran and the injured O'Brien replaced - the Cards did equalise on 82. An excellent Lee Frecklington pass from midfield found Lee Collymore , who was able to run on and beat 'keeper Keeling from the edge of the box. Harsh on Burton, who deserved more than a point - but the Collymore-inspired comeback will have pleased Fairway.

Burton 2 - Woking 2

Woking; 4-4-2; Bayes, Turner, Davies, Boardman, MacDonald*, O'Brien (Replaced 76 Teague), Baugley (Replaced 45 Wallis), Hill, Frecklington, Collymore, Moran (Replaced 76 Giles)

Woking Position After Game; 3rd

retired_brinker317

After Wednesday's dismal 4-0 home defeat to Leicester, under-fire Everton boss David Moyes finally got the boot. It had been a long time coming, with key members of the Toffees squad expressing doubts about the Scotsman.

Thursday morning, and while the Rob O'Brien injury is nothing to worry about - merely a cut on the arm that will see him back in time for Friday's training, there is bad news on both injury and suspension fronts. Young Chris Turner picked up a booking, taking him to five, in the game - ruling him out on Saturday. Worse though would be an injury to Narada - out for three weeks after sustaining a Groin Strain in training.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>

www.wokingfc.co.uk - News - Friday 25/1/08

'Johnson Signs, Trialist arrives and Friendly News'

"Left-sided defender Darren Johnson has signed for Woking permanently after a successful trial spell. Johnson, 18, signed a 4-year contract at Kingfield this morning.

"I'm looking forward to working with Stuart (Fairway)" he said. "I am very grateful to him, and Woking, for giving me this opportunity, and hopefully I can be knocking on the door of the first team before too long."

Meanwhile another trialist has arrived at Kingfield for a fortnight. You can read more about him in our regular 'Meet The New Boy' feature.

Completing this bumper roundup of Cards news, Stuart has also been able to arrange a Reserve Team friendly, at home on Wednesday evening against Bromley."


www.wokingfc.co.uk - Features - Friday 25/1/08

'Meet The New Boy - Paul Beale'

"Right-sided midfielder Paul Beale will spend 2 weeks at Kingfield while manager Stuart Fairway decides weather or not to offer him a contract. Beale, 20, is a naturally right-footed player, with pace and skill. Operating as a winger, Paul is an eyecatching player, who would no doubt become a fan favourite at Kingfield with his tricks.

Paul was born in Stoke, and has been on the books of his hometown club for three seasons. He left in Mid-January after failing to make a breakthrough at the Britannia Stadium. Beale was a regular at Reserve and Under 19 level, scoring three goals from right wing, but found himself released two days short of his 20th birthday, earlier this month. He has rejected contract offers from other clubs to commit himself to a trial at Woking, something sure to impress manager Fairway".

Report by Chris Bonner
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Woking v Barnet - League

Unavailable

Scott Canham - Injured - (Hamstring, 3 Weeks)
Narada - Injured - (Groin, 3 Weeks)
Amos Foyewa - Injured - (Shoulder, 5 Days)
Chris Turner - Suspended - (1 of 1)

One Chris' loss would be another's gain - Chris Judge replacing namesake Turner at right back. With Narada's suspension turning into an injury, Chris Davies continued at left back, while up front, the misfiring Moran would be given another run to see if he can replicate the form he brought to Kingfield after his loan arrival last month. On a wet, miserable afternoon at Kingfield both sides began brightly - with Kuffour shooting over for Barnet in the fourth minute. On 8 though it was Woking who took the lead - a Baugley cross headed powerfully at goal by Jon Boardman. 'Keeper Williams was able to block the shot, but only stunned it into the path of a grateful Lee Collymore , who made no mistake from close range. Woking's - perhaps undeserved - lead wouldn't last long however. On 11 Yakubu's powerful, curling free kick was met by Liam Chilvers, the former Arsenal defender heading past Bayes from inside the box. Barnet siezed on their goal, racing forward and Ashley Bayes was certainly the busier of the two 'keepers before the interval, with Kuffour a particular threat. After the break though Woking began to dominate, in what was becoming a real end-to-end game - Moran close with a header on 50, before seeing Collymore waste his 73rd minute cross with a shot straight at 'keeper Williams. The Balance of power would soon change again though - Barnet's Strevens seeing a clearly offside goal disallowed on 79. A minute later the Bees made one count - Blake Newbold running from half way to fire low past Bayes, despite close attention from MacDonald and Hill. Woking were done - Newbold could have added a third on 84 - but the score was, disapointingly for Fairway, deserved.

Woking 1 - Barnet 2 (Collymore)

Woking; 4-4-2; Bayes, Judge, Davies, Boardman, MacDonald*, O'Brien (Replaced 19 Teague), Baugley (Replaced 45 Wallis), Hill, Frecklington, Collymore, Moran

Woking Position After Game; 3rd

retired_brinker317

Tuesday - and news on the transfer front. After Barnet's trip to Kingfield, Fairway congratulated manager Martin 'Mad Dog' Allen - and put a proposal to the former West Ham hardman. Terms were quickly agreed, and with Joe McNab both a long term Bees target, and out of contract at the end of the season, Fairway was delighted to see the deal complete with a £4000 profit for the Cards.

While there would also be news on the job front - David O'Leary taking over at Everton , with Leigh RMI appointing Kevin Ball , Fairway was most disapointed to see Kyle Moran pull up injured in training, with the young striker out for a fortnight with a Hamstring strain.

There was at least good news from the Reserves - trialist Paul Beale completing a full 90 minutes against Bromley. The midfielder had a good, solid game, while Thomas Ward and Paul Lynch added more goals to their respective tallys - Ward now 13, and Lynch 8, with all coming in Non Competitive, Reserve or, in the case of the Scotsman, Under 19 games.

Friday, and as a genuinley dismal January for Woking came to an end, February would start with equally bad news. Out of contract at the end of the season, Andrew Wells needed another injury - this time a fractured cheekbone - like a hole in the head. The fullback will be out for about 4 weeks. Meanwhile, one player who is very much part of Woking's future, Paul Lynch , will also be out for a fortnight after picking up a gashed leg.

On Sunday morning Fairway was informed that Hayes had agreed terms with defender Neil Sharp over a summer move. With the 30-year old out of contract at the end of the season, the Bosman deal came as little suprise - but would elevate both Micheal Kenny and Darren Johnson over him in the Kingfield pecking order.

With two days to go before the end of his trial, Paul Beale would have been very disapointed to have only managed an hour for the Reserves on Tuesday - Woking holding a far more experienced Darlington side 2-2. The winger failed to impress, and will not be offered terms. Elsewhere, Aldershot appointed ex-Cheltenham legend Bob Bloomer as their new manager.

Yeovil Town v Woking - League

Unavailable

Scott Canham - Injured - (Hamstring, 1 Week)
Narada - Injured - (Groin, 1 Week)
Kyle Moran - Injured - (Hamstring, 1 Week)

After a long break, Fairway found himself with a far stronger squad at his disposal - recalling Turner for Judge, and Foyewa replacing the injured Moran in attack. On the bench Neil Sharp would be left out after arranging his summer move - player and manager both happy for Sharp to spend the remainder of the season in the reserves, giving young Darren Johnson a first chance to impress amongst the replacements. The home side started well, and on 10, opened the scoring. An excellent through ball from Gall beat the Woking offside trap, and Chris Hudson ran on, past the appealing defenders, to beat 'keeper Bayes from the edge of the box. After this early disapointment Woking levelled just four minutes later. A deflected Baugley cross came to Lee Collymore, who worked the ball back for Kevin Hill to hammer his first goal in a Cards shirt from 20 yards. Yeovil though looked the better side, and only some brave goalkeeping denied Gall on 17. He would gain his revenge on 35 - Kevin Gall putting Yeovil back ahead after a good ball forward from Owen. Despite the best efforts of both sides, the scores stayed the same as the teams went in for half time. Woking made a change, bringing on Teague for O'Brien, and almost immediatley reaped the rewards. On 49 Jamie Baugley sent a corner almost down the bye-line, causing a mass scramble at the near post. After a split second of confusion at Huish Park, it emerged that Gary MacDonald had glanced the ball over the line, and the scores were again level. Four minutes later Woking, now in confident mood, took the lead. After MacDonald - up for a freekick - was pushed by Hodges, Chris Davies stepped up to replicate his Forfar form - scoring his first for Woking from the penalty spot. After seeing their lead decimated, Yeovil fell apart - Woking bossing the game, with Hill in particular a revelation in midfield. On 79, Gall proved this - wasting a golden opportunity to equalise after Sangster's cross. Woking added a fourth - on 85 Lee Collymore earning a reward for tireless running in attack, the striker's 20th of the Season coming after Hill's cute pass beyond the defensive line. Suddenly Yeovil woke up - a tight ending ensured when Roy McBain rifled home a peach of a volley from 30 yards on 87. Rodrigues could have won it - the lanky central defender finding himself in a good position from Gall's pass, but unable to beat a determined Bayes - and a far better Woking showing all round

Yeovil 3 - Woking 4 (Hill, MacDonald, Davies, Collymore)

Woking; 4-4-2; Bayes, Turner, Davies, Boardman (Replaced 69 Johnson), MacDonald*, O'Brien (Replaced 45 Teague), Baugley, Hill, Frecklington, Collymore, Foyewa

Woking Position After Game; 3rd

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">| Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | | Darlington | | 29 | 23 | 3 | 3 | 59 | 18 | +41 | 72 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | | Barnet | | 29 | 16 | 7 | 6 | 61 | 36 | +25 | 55 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | WOKING | | 30 | 15 | 8 | 7 | 56 | 33 | +23 | 53 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Scarborough | | 28 | 14 | 6 | 8 | 52 | 34 | +18 | 48 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 5th | | Farnborough | | 30 | 15 | 3 | 12 | 52 | 48 | +4 | 48 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 6th | | Halifax | | 30 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 48 | 40 | +8 | 47 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 7th | | Kettering | | 30 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 45 | 34 | +11 | 46 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 8th | | Forest Green | | 30 | 12 | 9 | 9 | 46 | 36 | +10 | 45 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 9th | | Southport | | 29 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 50 | 46 | +4 | 45 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 10th | | Bury | | 29 | 13 | 4 | 12 | 44 | 43 | +1 | 43 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 11th | | Shrewsbury | | 29 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 34 | 34 | 0 | 42 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 12th | | Kidderminster | | 29 | 12 | 5 | 12 | 44 | 50 | -6 | 41 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 13th | | Yeovil | | 30 | 10 | 9 | 11 | 51 | 54 | -3 | 39 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 14th | | Macclesfield | | 29 | 11 | 5 | 13 | 50 | 60 | -10 | 38 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 15th | | Morecambe | | 28 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 49 | 50 | -1 | 37 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 16th | | Nuneaton Borough | | 29 | 11 | 4 | 14 | 37 | 49 | -12 | 37 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 17th | | Burton Albion | | 29 | 7 | 11 | 11 | 40 | 45 | -5 | 32 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 18th | | Aldershot | | 29 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 34 | 45 | -11 | 31 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 19th | | Telford | | 30 | 5 | 9 | 16 | 27 | 43 | -16 | 24 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 20th | | Canvey Island | | 29 | 5 | 7 | 17 | 19 | 43 | -24 | 22 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 21st | | Enfield | | 30 | 3 | 12 | 15 | 17 | 44 | -27 | 21 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 22nd | | Leigh RMI | | 29 | 5 | 3 | 21 | 29 | 59 | -30 | 18 | | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| </pre>

retired_brinker317

Thursday, and the knock which forced Jonathan Boardman off is slightly more serious than anticpated - the defender out for a week with a calf strain. With Sharp unlikely to feature, the choice is between Kenny or Johnson, who would both be making their first starts, on Saturday.

Someone with far bigger problems though is new Port Vale manager Andy Hesslenthaler . Hesslenthaler, formerly of Gillingham, has taken over a club in dire straights - 22nd in Division Three, and in the hands of administrators after bankrupcy.

On Friday Fairway said his goodbyes - young Paul Beale leaving after an unsuccessful trial. Someone who has impressed recently for the reserves though is Thomas Ward - the Irish striker's goal record prompting Cheltenham to make a bid. The Third Division club, cash-strapped like many, have offered nothing for the striker, who is out of contract at the end of the season, but have chucked in a 10% Sell-On fee. With Ward going nowhere at Woking, Fairway accepted the offer - keen to free up more space on the wage bill.

Woking v Nuneaton Borough - League

Unavailable

Scott Canham - Injured - (Hamstring, 5 Days)
Jonathan Boardman - Injured - (Calf, 1 Week)
Narada - Injured - (Groin, 6 Days)
Kyle Moran - Injured - (Hamstring, 5 Days)

Saturday again, and a big day for Darren Johnson - the young defender in for his first senior start to replace the injured Boardman. It's an equally big day for Micheal Kenny, who could also make his senior debut after being named amongst the substitutes. Nuneaton started brightly, and after just three minutes should have taken the lead - Johnny Allan seeing his shot hit the woodwork from inside the area. Woking gradually forced themselves into the game - Jamie Baugley close with a curling shot on 16, before Frecklington shot over the top on 23. Woking would take the lead though - on 35 Baugley's corner curling into the area. Hill leapt and headed the ball down towards goal - only for Chris Senior to deflect the ball past his own 'keeper. Nuneaton were clearly affected by the unfortunate opener, and lost the ball immediatley from the centre. Lee Frecklington worked it forward, and within a minute, Lee Collymore doubled Woking's lead. The Cards were ahead at half time without doing very much - but began the second half in equally determined fashion. On 56 Lee Collymore leapt to guide home Baugley's far-post free kick, and by then, Nuneaton were beaten. Woking ran riot - Lee Collymore claiming his hatrick, and Woking's fourth, on 73 after being left unmarked, but the best was yet to come. On 81 the striker turned provider - brilliantly holding off three defenders before hooking the ball into the centre. Lee Frecklington arrived on cue, tapping home from close range to put icing on the cake. That cake, however, was not yet complete - Lee Collymore completed a miserable day for Nuneaton - but a brilliant day for himself - with his fourth, and Woking's sixth on 87. The goal just about summed up Nuneaton's luck - a clearance from Oates falling straight to Foyewa, who put the ball back into the box for a rampant Collymore to prod home from close range. Sublime.

Woking 6 - Nuneaton 0 (OG, Collymore 4, Frecklington)

Woking; 4-4-2; Bayes, Turner, Davies, Johnson, MacDonald*, O'Brien, Baugley, Hill, Frecklington, Collymore, Foyewa

Woking Position After Game; 2nd

retired_reichenbach

good win d_s...glad to see that the switch is "Woking" out..but i'll love to see u go "Bac"

retired_brinker317

It's started, man the stockades... - Cheers Janz :thup:

Sunday morning, and while Thomas Ward has agreed terms to leave Kingfield and sign for Cheltenham, Fairway woke up with a big grin on his face. Woking were truly awesome against Nuneaton, and could have had ten if they had taken their chances. It would also be a busy day on the job front - Bolton's Sam Allardyce getting the boot, as well as Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp . Not all exits - Aston Villa appointing Phil Thompson as successor to the Everton-bound O'Leary.

While the Reserves - in their first post-Ward match - lost 3-1 on Tuesday, Fairway was equally delighted to see Scott Canham reporting fit for full training on Wednesday. Since the veteran's injury Woking were nowhere near as consistent, and his availablity is a real boost going into the end of the season.

As ever though, the good news wouldn't last. Barnet's draw on Saturday elevated them back to Second, but Fairway would also see Narada out for another 2 weeks - days after his return. The full back pulled neck muscles in training, ruling him out for a fortnight.

Leigh RMI v Woking - League

Unavailable

Narada - Injured - (Neck, 2 Weeks)

With only Narada unavailable, Fairway would make one change to the side who so comprehensivley demolished Nuneaton - bringing back Boardman for youngster Johnson in defence. Kyle Moran also made a comeback too - on the bench, also the home of long-term injury victim Scott Canham, as he begins his comeback from hamstring surgery. The game began quietly - McNiven's early shot over the bar for Leigh the only real action of the first 20 minutes. On 25 though Woking were forced into a change, after Collymore limped heavily out of a Hatswell challenge. With their star striker gone, the Cards lost composure, and Leigh began to dominate. On 34, they made the breakthrough - Hatswell's ball in from deep flicked over by Davis, into the path of David McNiven, who was able to beat Bayes from close range. Woking wasted a good chance to draw level before half time - on 44, Amos Foyewa firing over from a free kick. With Canham on the bench, Fairway brought the returning midfielder on at half time, sparking a mini-reshuffle in midfield. The veteran almost scored with his first real touch - Heffernan getting a knee to deflect the ball before it ran through to 'keeper White. Woking's chances were mainly restricted to efforts from distance - with the final ball simply not good enough for either Foyewa or Moran to have chances on the ground. In injury time any hopes of a comeback were killed off - Thomas Rooney steering home from close range after some unselfish running by McNiven. It's a long way from last week...

Leigh 2 - Woking 0

Woking; 4-4-2; Bayes, Turner, Davies (Replaced 62 Johnson), Boardman, MacDonald*, O'Brien (Replaced 45 Canham), Baugley, Hill, Frecklington, Collymore (Replaced 26 Moran), Foyewa

Woking Position After Game; 3rd

retired_brinker317

The news on Lee Collymore is good - just a precautionary change, and he'll miss Wednesday's training with a bruised rib - but no long-term damage. For young Darren Johnson however the news isn't so good. Himself a sub for Davies, who took a heavy knock but is fine, Darren picked up a late injury and will be out for a fortnight with a twisted knee.

Saturday, and while ex-trialist Paul Beale joined Yeovil on a free, Fairway recieved a very interesting offer...

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>

www.bbc.co.uk/football - Division One - Saturday 23/2/08

'Fairway Rejects Pompey'

" Woking manager Stuart Fairway has turned down the chance to manage Division One strugglers Portsmouth , according to the Kingfield club.

Woking Chairman Chris Ingram told BBC Sport; "Stuart was approached this morning, and as Portsmouth are a significantly bigger club than ourselves, I had to let him talk to them. Fortunatley for us though Stuart decided to reject the offer, and will be staying at Woking".

Fairway, after initially refusing to comment on the reports, later released a short statement claiming that he was more than happy at Woking, though had been flattered to be approached by Portsmouth."

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Authors Note; :eek: - Wow. Didn't apply, didn't expect to be offered it, but was anyway. Decided to turn it down, but only time will tell if that was the right choice I suppose...

While Fairway wouldn't be going to Fratton Park, ex-Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp wasted little time out of work - appointed Bolton manager on Sunday morning. Elsewhere, Icelander Guojon Poroarson is back at Stoke for the second time, after leaving Barnsley just over a year ago.

Tuesday - and another good result for the reserves. What's more suprising is that over 900 people turned up to see the second string, with goals for Asa Beard and Paul Lynch, beat a very strong Stoke side 2-0.

It wouldn't all be good news however. After picking up another injury on the training ground, young striker Kyle Moran will be sent back to Reading early. Although he began his loan spell in impressive form, that has dipped alarmingly, and combined with his injury problems, Fairway decided to terminate the spell early.

Telford United v Woking - League

Unavailable

Narada - Injured - (Neck, 3 Days)
Darren Johnson - Injured - (Knee, 5 Days)

With Kyle Moran returning to Reading ahead of the game, Fairway called Chris Giles back onto the bench in the only change - Canham again amongst the substitutes. Woking started well, with Jamie Baugley coming close on 19 - a dipping shot just too high to trouble the scorers. A minute later though Woking would take the lead - Davies robbing Williams, before hitting the ball early to Amos Foyewa. His pass caught the Telford defence out, and Lee Collymore arrived late to slam the loose ball past 'keeper MacKenzie. After conceding the early goal, it was Telford who then came closest - Andrew James cracking a shot from the edge of the area into the side netting. Woking wouldn't let up for long though, looking totally dominant as they grabbed a second on 32 - Amos Foyewa smashing home the rebound after his initial shot from Collymore's cross hit the post. 8 minutes later Lee Collymore added a third, and the game was all but over. A well-worked free kick involving Frecklington, Turner and Rob O'Brien, who put in the cross, reaped rewards for the Cards, with the on-fire Collymore gleefully lashing home from inside the box. Fairway made a change at half time, with Canham on to continue his recovery from serious injury. The Cards took their time, but with Telford despondent and hardly threatening, Amos Foyewa raced onto a Frecklington pass to provide his second cross for Lee Collymore to finish of the evening. There would be a fifth - Jonathan Boardman glancing home a corner on 82 to give Woking another stonking victory. Telford were dismal, and on this showing, will certainly struggle to stay up. Woking? - Well, a place in the playoffs looks more secure by the game.

Telford 0 - Woking 5 (Collymore 3, Foyewa, Boardman)

Woking; 4-4-2; Bayes, Turner, Davies, Boardman, MacDonald*, O'Brien, Baugley, Hill (Replaced Canham 45), Frecklington, Collymore, Foyewa

Woking Position After Game; 2nd