Girls and Ladies Football at AFC Stoneham

The club is still very much committed to running Girls teams next season across all age groups and have already had a lot of interest prior to the sad events around the coronavirus.

We are very excited about the further development of female football at AFC Stoneham and will update and confirm details as soon as possible to all parents and new players.

All new players are very welcome to contact chairman@afcstoneham.co.uk or 07841696579 should they have any questions in the meantime.

Season Summary

AFC Stoneham had another hugely successful season and we would like to send out a big "thank you" to all of our players, managers, coaches, parents, sponsors and volunteers.

Without YOU we have no club, no success, no fun and no smiles. Thank you for everything you do for the club!

We must keep things in perspective at this challenging time and currently football is a long way down anyone's priority list. Many people sadly won't have the opportunity to see another football season.

When we have beaten the corona virus we will all love and appreciate football, the football family and our community a little bit more.

Again, a huge thank you to everyone and for now please be kind to each other, stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.

Thank you.

FA Breaking news

As expected the FA have today made the 2019/20 Wessex League season null and void with no promotions or relegations.

After an outstanding and memorable season we sat 2nd in the league at the time all scores and tables were expunged.

Whenever we start the new campaign it will now be the first season in our 100 year history that the club has competed at this level.

We can revert back to being massive underdogs with nothing to lose!

Whilst there are far more important things going on around us than football we are already looking forward to the new season whenever that will be.

Thank you.

Club Statement - Coronavirus

Following very clear guidance from both the FA and Government AFC Stoneham will be suspending all football activities until at least April 3rd.

We will review the situation on this date, or before if circumstances change and update everyone accordingly.

Having liaised with Hampshire FA our new home ground and all facilities will also be closed until April 3.

The priority has to be the health and welfare of all of our players, their parents, managers, coaches and supporters during this challenging period.

Support each other and be kind to each other. Keep safe and healthy.

Thank you.

Youth Round Up - 15th March 2020

U9 Panthers won had a hard fought game today against a team in a league above. Some great play, battling till the end and never giving up. The team rose to the challenge knowing they were in a hard fought game. Jacob Pinder and Bobby Bennet with the goals. Man of match James for his excellent positioning and defensive play.

U9 Jaguars played their best game of the season today and Issac was MOTM.

The Under 10 Panthers had a good return to league games, putting in a strong performance. The early kick off was our first in a while so we took our time to adjust! Some great passing and communication as the game went on and some good play all round. MOTM was Harry-James for his excellent intercepting and tackling. Well done lads!

U9 Tigers has a close game today.Leo with a goal. Brandon got MoM. U10 Spitfires didnt win or lose against Alresford Town Lions. Really good performance after a slow start in a physical game. Goals from Harry Halligan, George Polkinghorne & Oliver Drew. To be honest all 3 goals were impressive. POM went to Charlie Maguire for an excellent performance in his new ground position of centre mid. The boys then played against Don’s Sharks in a friendly as his opponents pulled out . Goals from Harry Halligan 3 & Jake Fluck. Boys played well considering it was their 2nd game and having no subs. Massive thanks to Don for the game and good luck to his Sharks for rest of the season.

U11 Tornadoes Our game become a friendly today as our opasition did not have enough players. We gave them 2 of our players and the game was played in good spirit. The score was a high scoring draw but only because our player Samuel scored 3 of there goals.

U11 Harriers played away against Littleton legends and came out with a good result. The boys showed great effort today on a tricky pitch and took the lead early on from a great pass by Viktor to set up Oliver Mills to fire home. The second half Littleton came back in to the match and had good possession of the ball and scored a deserved equaliser from a defensive mix up. Harriers pressed for a winner and had a lot of chances in the last third of the match and got a well earned penalty with Charlie Wynder slotting home for his first goal for Stoneham. Unfortunately we were unable to hold on and Littleton scored on the counter attack with 5 minutes remaining. MOM - went to Caleb Tickner who deputised in goal for the injured max and led the team really well from the back!

U12 Wolves Was a good game today played in good spirits as always is when we play hiltingbury, too many missed opportunities today we had a rocky start before settling into the game hitting the cross bar 3 times in first half before max put the wolves 1 nil up 5 minutes before half time, boys battled hard with some great football displayed in certain areas of the game unfortunately 4 mins before time with very little to deal with in the second half a lose ball bounced through and hiltingbury managed to strike home an equaliser. Good result really with players missing. MOM going to Max great work rate and determination today very well deserved.

U12 Royals a closely fought 1-1 today. The Royals lacked in energy at the start and struggled to get the ball down and play good football. Whiteley took the lead from a clear offside position. We didn’t let our heads get down and kept battling. As the game went on we got stronger and started creating opportunities. We equalised around the 55th minute with a great team goal, goal scorer was centre back James Rennie with his first in the opposition goal.

U12 Panthers went out at the semi final stage of the Tyro cup, losing 2-1 to table toppers Southside Manticore. The game was played at a high pace with both teams showing good levels of ability. The opposing manager was very complimentary as neither team deserved to lose. Although the boys are naturally disappointed, they can hold their heads high at two long cup runs. We must now concentrate on a strong league finish. Max Edwards was scorer and my player of the day.

U13 Spitfires had a tough day and not playing for 6 weeks unfortunately showed as they list 6-0 to St Francis Rangers. Fitness showed today as no subs which in all honesty was a big decider in who won the game. POM went to Charlie Knight for an excellent performance not only in defence but in getting forward in attack.

U13 United AFC Stoneham United played with just the eleven players today but that didn’t phase the boys at all. A very solid and composed 5-1 home victory against Lakewood was well deserved. It was good to see the the boys really ramp up their performance level in the final quarter to really hit the wide areas to make it, an overall - very enjoyable game to watch. Goals came from George Scappaticci (4) and Frazer Minns.

U14 Galaxy Galaxy survived a nervy last 10 minutes after out playing Wellow this afternoon to come through 3-2. MOM Reece Miller scored the first and then turned provider for both Ryan Dennis and Tom Clarke converting with excellent strikes.

U14 Panthers Won 3 0 against Windsor United Youth Red. 2 long range screamers from Henry Mubiru and Joshua Ngombi and a clinical left footed finish from Dylan Cross. MoM Isaac Fitzgerald for a determined and faultless performance at left back. U16 Panthers AFC Stoneham Panthers 2 St Francis 3 goal scorers Ollie Stafford and Ben Wright U16 Girls beat Clanfield away 5-4. Comfortable at 5-1 with 10 minutes remaining and became a bit complacent. All in all a good away win. Goal scorers: 4 Goals for Madison Payne and one from Chloe Andrews. Players of the match Madison Payne Oppositions player of the match was Shannon White.

Under 18s had a very impressive 2-0 win at home to AFC Totton in a top of the table clash with a brace from Tom Scottow.

Well done to all of our teams!

Veterans Update

Both of our Veterans teams are having a great season. Both lead their respective leagues and are already in cup finals. Below is Saturdays match report from our Veterans game at Fawley RBL.

AFC Stoneham vets played their 1st game in a month against a young Fawley RBL side and after a hard fought match came out as 3-1 winners.

The game started lively with some decent tackles flying in and some missed chances from both sides but it was Alan Skilton who scored from a well worked training ground free kick routine. Both teams had chances to score but with the wind was getting strong during the game there was a rare mistake from a Stoneham defender who we wont mention, miss judges the ball and heads it onto a Fawley striker who makes it 1-1.

A very funny moment in the game where Harrison threw himself into a tackle where his legs didnt work and found himself on the floor. There appeared nowhere to go, but with Stoneham blood in his veins he threw his head towards the ball and an oncoming boot.

2nd half started slowly and so with not a lot happening, Skilton got bored and decided to block a shot with his hands and no penalty was given. Think Chappers was impressed with that one!

Hewett wanted to question the referee’s high quality decisions all game and by doing so got sin binned. Lee Stevens was also a lucky man not to have the same as he called the ref a old BEEP and then run away from him. Lee continues to have a moan but this time to Lewis but he puts him in his place but stating the fact about lewis has his Level 4 coaches badges.

After Hewetts 10 minute rest he get back on the pitch and goes on a solo run and gets taken out in the box. Fawley player gets a red card for his efforts. Hewett calmly slots in the bottom right corner for 2-1.

Stoneham secured the victory when James the raging bull left the last defender for dead and then dinked the ball over the stranded keeper.

Youth Round Up - 8th March 2020

The Under 8 Panthers had a good return in the cup, after 5 weeks of games called off. Some brilliant play all round, especially communication. Overall a fantastic and an excellent performance considering it was ‘Their Game’ weekend as well. Panther of the week was Henry for his excellent work rate. Well done Panthers!

U8 Royals has a great day in their 1st Europa Cup game. The performance was exceptional particularly because over half the game the opposition had 2 extra players but we played some really Silky Football at times, overall a great team performance. Assists for Archie, Arvinder, Alfie G, Duwayne & Alfie L & goals from many. Alfie L was MOTM.

U9 Tigers had a tight game. Miles scored a hat trick. Alistair got MoM!

U9 Panthers had a great day A game that should have been more comfortable but we switched off in the last quarter. For the 3 quarters we were switched on the team played some sublime football. The passing play was great. Jacob Pinder and Bobby Bennett with the goals. Man of the match Josh Cooper for his excellent defensive play.

U10 Panthers had a very successful day and put in a brilliant performance in their silent weekend cup game. Great performances all round with some good passing and improved communication. Not one player was off their game today - fantastic! MOTM was Ethan. Well done lads!

U10 Spitfires didnt win or lose against a Hedge End Panthers who are 2 leagues above them in the group decider of the cup. Sadly means the boys are now out but they played so well today and proud of everyone of them. Shows just how far we have come as team. Goals scored by Harry Halligan and George Polkinghorne with his 1st ever headed goal. POM went to Archie McQuinton but in all honesty anyone could have got it with how well they all played.

Under 10 Falcons finished the group stages of the cup with a good performance against a competitive Hursley side. Well done boys for getting through the heavy rain.

U11 Harriers Today we played Hiltingbury and had a good day. The boys played well against a very good Hiltingbury team who have gone unbeaten for quite a while. We created some good chances early and scored a well taken penalty. Hiltingbury had the better of the first half and more dominant in possession and were unlucky not to convert more of their opportunities but for some good defending going in level at half time. 2nd half we defended really well & then started to create more opportunities through counter attacking. Both goal by Viktor. All the boys worked hard today & had great attitude, MOM went to Cole who was amazing at the back winning every tackle and header and led the defence really well!

U14 Panthers lost 2-1 played poorly. 3 players injured missed a sitter and hit post with a few mins left.

U14 Galaxy had a much needed game today in a friendly against Div 5 champions Romsey Youth. An end to end match finished 2-2 with Tom Clarke netting both goals for Stoneham.

U15 Spitfires AFC Stoneham Spitfires 8 City Central 1. The cup winners continued building momentum with a dominant display from the start. The only disappointment was Conceding a goal from City Central's only shot. Goal scorers... Harvey 3, Claudiu, Louie, Jamie, Ryan, Woody. MOM Claudiu, pulled the strings in the middle of the park against his old team.

U16 Panthers won 3-1 against Marchwood, scorers where Spencer Sims, Jack Hitchener and Matt Millmore. The boys played some really nice football today and thoroughly deserved the win.

U18s AFC Stoneham 6 Petersfield Town 0 Scorers. Tom scottow 3 Cade Dyer 2 Brad Cooper 1. Joint top of the league with Totton who the boys play at home next Sunday.

Well done to all of our teams who played!

Youth Round Up - 23rd February 2020

Another fantastic weekend at AFC Stoneham with some truly outstanding results.

U7 Spitfires had a superb cup game with Dylan getting on the scoresheet and Miles defending superbly.

U9 Tigers has a good day Miles, Leo, Mason and Alistair were on fire in front of goal. Miles got MOTM.

Under 9 Panthers were superb today. An excellent team performance both attacking and defensively. Bobby Bennett, Maisy Leamon and Jacob Pinder x2 were on fire. Player of the day Maisy Leamon. Completely bossed the game and covered every crumb of astro today!

U9 Lions posted another excellent result v Hiltingbury Hurricanes. Mally, Fin M x2 were on fire in front of goal. MOTM: Fin M.

U10 Spitfires were in tremendous form against AFC Hiltingbury Harriers in their 2nd group game of the cup. Fantastic performance and played over 30 minutes against an extra player due to the mercy rule. Charlie Maguire, Jake Fluck & a George Polkinghorne hat-trick were on fire in front of goal. POM went to George Polkinghorne for a stand out performance in what was an amazing team

An ever improving U10 Sharks Sharks had a great day v Winsor Utd White. Some good play going forward today with Joel (3) Chris (2) Sunny (2) and Sam getting the team what we needed. Some hairy moments in defense and the opposition GK made some outstanding saves to keep the score down.
Joel was MOTM for 2 finishes with his weaker left foot.

The Under 10 Panthers had a very exciting cup match today proving their resilience and never giving up. We came back from a tough score line, pressing well and creating lots of chances. Some excellent play all round and only a few small things to work on. MOTM today were Alfie and Liam. Alfie’s best performance and Liam was excellent in defence (not his usual position). Well done boys!

U12 Panthers came from two goals down to win 5-3 away to Netley Royals. With the wind swirling, the boys found themselves two goals down early in the game, however managed to drag themselves back into the game by half time. The second half however was much improved and controlled fully by the boys, in which they managed to score 3 goals without reply. Joe Finch and Brad Chirima both scored twice, and Max Edwards bagged his 16th of the season. Joe Finch was voted man of the match and was superb. A special mention to Archie Rose who’s drive and determination kept us in the game during the first half.

U12 Wolves - Bad day at office today although boys played well a run of very questionable decisions going against us had us on the back foot all game very hard playing against second in the league with out the extra pressure from the officials was very frustrating for the boys who did keep fighting to the end.
Goal scored by leyton. We didnt do MOTM. Not that no one deserved it just purely a game to move on from very soul destroying for the whole team today with very little wrong.

U12 Royals lost 3-2 today, Tough game with a few players missing but the team did well with lots of people playing in unfamiliar positions. We didn’t have a great first half but everyone reacted and did everything that was asked in the second half but unfortunately it wasn’t enough this week. A good goal from the right wing for Bailey Middleton and a penalty converted by Leon Peatroy was the final kick off the game. Player of the match was Aiden Dinley who was playing out of position and did a great job of organising the defence.

U13 United lost 3-0 to Whiteley in a top of the table clash.

U14 Hawks moved into the final of County Cup with Taran Takhar and a Charlie Hawes thunderbolt scoring in the 90 mins to give a final scoreline of 2-2 before winning on penalties where Robert Montgomery was the hero. MOTM was also given to Taran. Well done boys on a great achievement .

U14 Rovers - Good day today! With two games to go we secured a top two league position and with it promotion to Div 1. U14 Rovers beat Rodaway Rovers 5-1 in a muddy pitch with goals from Oscar Rich, Mark Montenegro, Jamie Hibberd and two from Billy Brackley. As much as promotion was our season target the progression of the team has been fantastic with every player having improved throughout the year. A very proud manager and coaching team. Two games to win the league title! Well done Malcolm and all the boys on your deserved promotion.

U15 Spitfires reached the final of the Tyro League cup beating BTC 5-2 in their first season with the club . An emotional manager , Brett, said " as a Leeds United fan I am not used to any sort of success. A great day". Goal scorers: Harvey 2, Daniel, Junior, Cole. Man of the match: Woody. Well done Brett , Brian and all of the boys!

U18s reached the County Cup final beating AFC Totton on penalties having drawn 2-2 in 90 minutes. Syd and Flori were the penalty shootout heroes. Well done Neil and the boys on a great achievement!

On any other weekend U14 Rovers and U15 Spitfires would win "Purple team of the day " comfortably for their superb achievements.

However on a historic and memorable day for the club when two of our teams reached County Cup finals both our Under 18s and U14 Hawks have to jointly take the prize. Well done to both teams on a fantastic achievement.

Youth Round Up - 9th February 2020

Very few of our young teams played this weekend however following on from a great win for our U14 Girls our super U9 Girls won their first ever cup game 6-2.

The normally very shy and reserved Millie Fear scored a hat trick with Macey, Freya and Jasmine scoring the others. Player of the match was the excellent Macey Cassar. Well done girls!

Our U7 Eagles also recorded a tremendous result v Totton Tigers with Colby, Harry and Miles, his first goal for the team, on fire in front of goal.

Well done to all of our "little Purps"!

Youth Round Up - 2nd February 2020

Today's Junior and Youth results round up from Purple HQ:

U7 Eagles had a great game v Totton with some great defending especially Dylans great tackling. George was on fire in front of goal and Max was a great captain.

U8 Spitfires Another solid team performance from Stoneham Spitfires U8s with flowing passing and movement. Great result with Freddie MOM.

The Under 8 Panthers had a really tough game today but showed some great effort and commitment. We switched off for some periods of the game but were really alert in others. A good performance with lots of positives but still things to learn! Panther of the Week was Lloyd for his exceptional interceptions and tackles. Well done Panthers!

U9 Panthers has a great result in a hard fought game. Jacob Pinder on fire with an excellent assist from Bobby Bennett. The most pleasing part was the great defending and for proving they belong in a higher division after two promotions this season! Oliver Leamon man of the match for an outstanding display in defence.

U10 Sharks Sharks had their first "big smiles" day of the season, and what a time to get it! In a cup match. Sunny , Chris, Joel and Eddie were on fire in front of goal. Parents voted Eddie as MOTM but everyone struggled to pick one outstanding player today as everyone was excellent. Well done Sharks!

U10 Panthers had an amazing first cup game vs St Francis. Some excellent team play and passing as well as a constant important though the game. Ethan C, Sam and MOTM Ewan all did something that made the whole team happy. Excellent play all round - well done lads! (Please note we cannot of course name goalscorers)

U10 Spitfires started their cup fixtures with a fantastic game v Sholing Reds who play in the league above us. Absolute fantastic team performance by all the boys today. Everyone left with big smiles due to something Charlie Maguire did with almost the last kick of the game. Charlie was the only player to do this from either team. POM went to Miles Earnshaw who had an amazing game in goal who received praise by our opposition Manager at full time. So proud of these boys and great support by their parents.

U11 Tornadoes had a tough day against Marchwood today. We started strong and were playing really good football, starting of as the better team but never converted any of our chances. Once we conceded things changed and struggled to get back on top. The better team came out on top. No man of the match was given.

U11 Harriers had a great day. The boys dominated the game from start to finish and they all played really well. It was great to see us convert chances today and the boys being more & more confident on the ball. But what I was most impressed with as a team they are defending really well and a big shout out to Max - goalkeeper and defenders Cole, Jack & Lucas only conceding 1 goal in last 5 matches. MOM Went to Viktor who had another great game and played really well.

U12 Panthers battled to a 2-1 win at home to Winchester blacks. After a string of fine saves by the opposing keeper, we ended up finding ourselves behind early in the second half. The boys managed to shift an extra gear and following two goals from Max Edwards, earned a deserved win. The players voted Max as man of the match. Special mentions to Archie Rose for running his socks off and Harry Clark for an assured performance.

U12 Royals 1-1 result against a good Botley side who we faced for the 2nd week in a row. After we shocked them with a win last week they were really up for it today. 1st half was brilliant - Botley didn’t have a shot all half and we went in 1-0 at the break thanks to a great goal from Bailey Middleton. The 2nd half was a bit tougher and we ended up conceding to a penalty. A few things didn’t go our way and the match ended in a 1-1 draw. We were great defensively and the only 2 shots they had were 2 penalties - the 2nd denied by a great save from Rex "the cat" in goal .Too difficult to pick out a Player of the Match as everyone put in a great performance.

U12 Wolves We hosted Winchester Reds after a away day last weekend to them walking away 5-3 winners this week. It was another tough day with Winchester taking an early lead with a great volley 6 yards out, we soon equalised with a goal from Leyton "hotshot" Read before 5 minutes later after heavy deflection we went 2-1 up but a quick breakaway just before half time saw us concede another. Second half very equal, great opportunities for both teams before a long goal kick found it's way through for "hotshot" to run in and put his second of the day away with only 2 mins left to play. Great to see boys play hard to the very end and it paid off. Mom went to Toby for his great work efforts and never giving up on the ball.

U14 Hawks had to dig deep to eventually grind out a 3-2 win against Sholing. Goal scorers were: Kyle Podolanski (2) & Mikey Shaw, MotM was Kyle Podolanski. U15 Rovers lost a much too open game 5-4 away to Colden Common having been leading 2-0 and 3-2. Not a great day at the office, especially after the recent run of great form. Onwards and upwards next week. U16 Panthers 2 Hythe 3 Both goals scored by Matt Milmore.

Our Ladies won 8-2 against Widbrook to secure their place as league leaders having been level at 1-1 at half time. Scorers were Buckingham 4, Awdas 2 and singles from Early and Porter-Smith.

Purple Team of the week goes to Dons super U10 Sharks who achieved something they haven't done until today!

Youth Round Up - 12th January 2020

Our Junior and Youth round-up from this weekend

Under 8 Spitfires started slow in the first quarter. The boys then reacted and showed great character and play to make it a great day! MOTM - Freddie

U9 Lions were outstanding today. MOTM: Henry Fin A, Mally and Rhys were on fire in front of goal.

U9 Tigers came out on top with Miles and Brandon hitting the "onion bag". MoM was Mason.

U9 Panthers were on fire in a big way today. Great all-round performance and happy with a clean sheet. Jacob Pinder and Bobby Bennett were big contributors to the scoreline supported by Tyler Callaway, Eddie Angell, Charlie Bennett and Oliver Leamon. Man of the match Eddie Angell for an all-round excellent display, linking up play and assists.

U9 Tornadoes played very well today. Sam was excellent in front of goal with MOTM Isaac.

The U10 Panthers played exceptionally well in their game today. A massive contrast from last week and a major improvement. Some amazing passing play and some great goals too. Well done to everyone but MOTM was Ethan C for engaging and linking multiple passing moves. Well done

U10 Spitfires didn’t win or lose against Southside Lions in a very tight but entertaining game. Great team performance again by all the boys. Goal scored by Harry Halligan. POTM went to Seth Price for a solid defensive display and some nice passing. Really pleased with the boys’ effort from start to finish.

U11 Tornadoes had a good day v City Central. We continue our good form of playing great football. we lost to this team at the start of the season so was a great gauge to see how far we have come. From a tough start to the season the boys should be very proud of turning it around. MOTM was Samuel showing great vision on the ball, passing through there defence creating chances and he also scored a goal.

U11 Harriers played Whiteley and came out with a good result in a tight game.

The boys took their time to grow into the game but created some great chances but for some good goalkeeping by the opposition, the result could have been more.

Goals from Charley Willis & also a contender for goal of the season Caleb Tickner

MOM went to Captain Caleb Tickner who had a great game and worked really hard for the team with & without the ball… capped off with a worldy of a goal⚽️

U12 Royals suffered a 4-0 defeat. We have a home fixture against the same team next week so with a fresh approach next week hopefully we will be posting a very different result!

U12 Panthers bowed out of the Hampshire cup at the last 16 stage following a hard-fought 4-3 defeat to Oakwood Lions. The boys played a high quality and tightly contested game and have had an excellent run of Hampshire cup games. Scorers were Will Hosmer with two and Brad Chirima. The players voted Max Edwards as player of the game. A special mention to Joe Phillips who was superb.

U14 Panthers lost 2-1 against Hedge End rangers blue. Owen Diver scored. MoM went to goalie Liam Small for great distribution and making the best save I've seen this season.

U14 Galaxy
Despite a much-improved performance, today Galaxy didn't quite have enough in their locker as they went down 3-2 against unbeaten league leaders Southbrook. MOM was birthday boy Reece Miller who added another 2 goals to his season's tally.

U14 Hawks battled hard and eventually won their Hants cup quarter-final 1-0 against a very good Ringwood Town team... goal scorer was Josh Roberts... MotM was Patrick Wojcikiewicz.

U14 Girls had an outstanding 7-0 win v Ringwood. Victoria x2 Hannah x2 Caitlin x2 and Tasha were the scorers. Opposition Player of the match was Tasha and Purp of the day was Victoria. It was a good performance at the new home of girls football for AFC Stoneham.

AFC Stoneham U16 Panthers 5 Sarisbury Green 4 - goal scorers Jack Hitchiner 2 Matt Milmore 2 and Harry Hancock 1. Well done boys on a long-awaited victory.

Our reserves beat Romsey Town on Saturday 4-2 with goals from
Flori, Ethan Pritchard, Imran and Liam Hiscock.

Team of the day goes to our U14 Hawks for reaching the semi-final of the Hampshire County Cup for the first time.

Well done Hawks and to all of our teams for another successful weekend!

Youth Round Up - 5th January 2020

Today's Junior/Youth update:

On top of our first teams excellent win on Saturday our juniors, youth, girls and veterans teams also produced some great performances over the weekend.

The U8 Panthers had an excellent first game back after the Christmas break. Some excellent performances all round and some awesome goals. Panther of the Week was Eli for his awesome goals and work rate. Well done Panthers!

U8 Spitfires had a great game and team performance with fantastic passing. George Bushell man of the match with 3 world-class goals including a “top bibs” free kick.

U9 Panthers came out smiling in a hard-fought game. The first game after Xmas and the boys and girl didn’t disappoint with plenty of energy and running. The famous Bennett and Pinder double act was on fire again in front of goal. Bobby Bennett was MOTM for a great all-round display.

U9 Tigers were on top form today. Miles, Alistair, Mason and Jack were on fire in front of goal. Jack came out of goal for the last qtr and scored a great goal. MOTM was James.

The U10 Panthers had a slow start back after Christmas. Some good parts to the game but unfortunately couldn’t get the ball moving. Some great performances but just missing a few fundamental skills but some very good positives and things to work on. MOTM was Ryan for his great work rate and tacking.

U10 Spitfires:
A great way to start 2020 with a superb result. Four brilliant, well-worked team bits of magic. Played most of the 2nd half with Warsash having an extra player on the pitch. A huge compliment from the ref at FT saying it was the best team performance he had seen for a long time, huge credit to the boys and their efforts.
Goals scorers : (not allowed !)
POM: Miles Earnshaw who was vocal throughout and made some great saves when called upon.

U11 Tornadoes came out Smiling v BTC. The boys are continuing to play great football. great team play working together to get the ball up the field. We showed great resilience today to ensure big smiles at the end. MOTM was Charlie, high work rate, scored a goal, set a goal up. I lost count how many balls he managed to get across into the box he was unlucky not to have created another couple of goals.

U11 Harriers played Hiltingbury and came out with a great result. The boys played well for parts of the game and adapted well after not playing for over 3 weeks, it took the boys time to get into the game but we created some great chances and along with some good goalkeeping the result should have been more. Jack Jerams scores a rare goal this season. MOM Lucas Berry- played the first part on the pitch and then help the team out for the last 3rd of the match between the sticks and had a great game with a couple of vital blocks and great handling overall

U12 Royals had a hard-fought 0-0 today with only the bare 9. We were the stronger team throughout but couldn’t find the back of the net, not even from the penalty spot. MOM went to Greg Rolinson who was played out of position as a centre back but stepped up to the challenge. The way the team played shows promise for 2020. Up the PURPS.

U12 Panthers came from 2-0 down at half time to win 3-2 in the Hampshire cup vs Oakley. Very proud of their second-half display which was superb. Will Hosmer scores twice, along with a free-kick from Max Edwards. Will, Max and Harry Clark were voted players of the game.

A superb win in the Hampshire Cup. Well done Panthers.

U12 Wolves had another great performance by the wolves today with another trip to 3rd place Oakwood. The game was very well battled by both teams with us taking the lead from a great long throw-in with sloppy defending from a corner and we concede not long before a superb free-kick from George Elvidge just inside our half finds it's way straight to the back of the net. oakwood equaliser later on with another goal from a corner however with 6 seconds left a long run from centre back through to Leyton upfront crossing a super ball in with Max B smashing home a great win and a great 3 points. back to back wins now super proud of the boys.

Man of the match went to henry Gayton for a super solid performance in defence

U13 Spitfires gained a pleasing 1-1 draw away to St Francis Rangers. A very good game played in the right spirit by both teams’s throughout. A great effort considering not trained or played for over 3 weeks. Goal scored by Kai Arme with POM going to Johnson Porter for a fantastic defensive display. Great start to 2020.

U13 United got off to a flying start to the year with an impressive 4- 0 win at our new home today vs Oakwood. The boys were solid across the park and created many chances for each other. Goals came from George Scappaticci with a superb hat-trick and a great goal to cap the day off from Aaron Golding.

U14 Hawks won their last 16 Hampshire Cup game away to Southbrook today 0-4, goal scorers were Tom Burford-Hoad, Charlie Hawes, Kyle Podolanski and Maksym Ralowiec

U14 Rovers won at home against Romsey Town 6-2 to reaffirm our position at the top of Division 2. Goals from Travis Scottow 2, Mark Montenegro 2, Billy Brackley and Gian Ag’ain. Man of Match for his all-round play and goal of the game Mark Montenegro.

U14 Panthers drew 2-2 against Baddesley. Goalscorers Dylan Whaley and Adam Vear. MoM Adam Vear.

U14 Galaxy suffered post Christmas blues and went down 4-2 at Baddesley with a late brace from Reece Miller restoring a degree of respectability. Man of the match was the again excellent Frankie Way in goal

U15 Spitfires: Baddesley Park 0 Stoneham Spitfires 7

A dominant display from the boys on a big pitch. The boys kept possession brilliantly and worked hard, it looked like they hadn't had a break at Christmas. Our Goal-scorers Bilal 2, Claudiu 2, Dan, Jamie, Cole. Man of the Match was recorded signing Claudiu Ghinea who made a superb debut fitting in so well with the team.

U16 Panthers: Panthers 0 Pace 2 - very tough physical game.

U16 Utd: Wimborne Town 1 - 2 AFC Stoneham Utd. Goals from Oliver Ingram & Kevin Ngombi. Great result from the boys after having 3 weeks off. A game which really lacked any quality due to the state of the pitch, however a game full of desire and grit to grind a result out.

U18 Hants cup - Bashley 0 Stoneham 5. Goal scorers were Will Hammerton, Ethan Prichard, Arthur Kerton, Tom Scottow, Casey Greives. The boys now play AFC Porchester in the last 8.

U16 Girls had 3 pull out injured yesterday and went to Soton Women with only 12 players against a strong squad of 16. Battled hard and scored in the last 10 mins which was disallowed due to a collision with the keeper. Finished 0-0 but a very well fought point. Player of the match for me was Katie Pakes.

Our young reserves drew 2-2 yesterday at Fareham Town to gain a very good point.

Purple team of the day is awarded to Sams U12 Panthers for their excellent Hampshire Cup win having come back from 2-0 down.

Well done to all of our teams on another excellent weekend!

Kenya 2019 - Will Wiseman

Our first team player Will Wiseman travelled to Nairobi, Kenya in the summer with The New Community Kibera project. Read Wills fantastic story below. Well done Will!

Thank you to all who invested their support into my trip to Kenya, through prayer, training, planning and finance. I could not have gone without your support and I truly believe the programme was a huge success. Back in mid-August, I travelled with a team of 5 to Nairobi, Kenya, to deliver training and development programmes to football coaches, healthcare volunteers and educational workers within the Kibera slum. I worked specifically in Football coaching with one other volunteer, where we delivered training to approximately 45 local coaches daily, each responsible for players ranging from kids football to adult Kenyan clubs. Each coach has a vital influence on his players, spending much of the week developing the players physically, emotionally, mentally and even educationally.

To give an example of their responsibilities numerically, two coaches oversee a local club (Kibera Saints) of approximately 120 players. This shows the reach and influences the coaches to have on such a vast amount of young people in Kibera slum. We successfully delivered four packed days of training to the coaches – teaching drills and training methods as well as detailed discussions on Health, First Aid, Nutrition, STIs and social issues like domestic violence, Religious impacts on football, Crime, Poverty and Discrimination. Bear in mind many of these coaches are rivals in similar leagues! Vast football and societal values were created, discussed and agreed, and the coaches left empowered and encouraged to work with each other and their players to impact their communities. The direct impact from working with the coaches is estimated to be around 700-800 people, not to mention each person’s family/community that will be further affected.

Following the football programme, the coaches organised a large football tournament between many teams, to implement the trained skills and knowledge from the programme, but more importantly a culture of family, communal support and social improvement. This was a big step towards independence of the coaches’ communities, through a collective heart of sharing and development. Equipment was also provided to the coaches and their players, with the help of KitAid and individual donors, providing kit, training equipment, and many other accessories needed by the individuals we were serving. We packed 5 20KG+ suitcases We made sure to covertly distribute this aid, through handing it all over to trusted and well-respected coaches who live on Kibera slum, whom we work closely with, who could then distribute it themselves. This was also carried out by distributing via local clothing businesses, to ensure that our support partners with, not quenches, the local businesses and their economy. This also develops independence in the local area.

Kibera is an area of Nairobi, Kenya and is thought to be the largest slum in Africa, as well as one of the largest slums in the world. Population estimates for Kibera vary widely between 170,000 and 1.5 million, depending on the source. The majority of Kibera’s population live in small, rented mud shacks with corrugated tin roofs. There is very little infrastructure in the area; clean water is sold at an inflated price by private sellers, access to electricity is very limited, and the lack of toilets and sewage systems means that the streets are strewn with human waste, as well as refuse. Medical and educational facilities are also extremely limited, and what is available is generally supplied by charitable organisations. Poverty is a key issue in Kibera, where there is an unemployment rate of about 50%, and where many of those who are employed are in relatively unskilled, poorly paid jobs. The cost of living in Kibera is relatively expensive (as in other slums). The majority of those in these informal settlements don’t have a steady source of income and many work as casual labourers in the surrounding factories where they earn about 200 Kenyan Shillings (£1.50) per day. Malnutrition, disease, alcohol and substance abuse, prostitution and violence are also all issues that heavily affect the people of Kibera, largely resulting from the poor living conditions in the region.

The New Community Kibera Project aims to serve the needs of the local people living in Kibera. We do this by supporting health, educational and micro-finance projects that are taking place in the area, and place an emphasis on practical development. Furthermore, Football has proved to be a welcome distraction from an otherwise negative culture where crime and unemployment rule. For example, “Kibera Saints” recently developed organically and its formation corresponded with an estimated 80% drop in crime in the area. Sports clubs offer young people a welcome distraction from gang activity, resulting in fewer robberies, thefts and assaults, and an overall drop in crime. Kibera Saints has certainly proved that theory.

Two young men from the slum decided to coach the boys, from then on things really started to improve. They trained the players; established an under-17s team and set up a barbershop to fund the club. It didn’t stop there - similar youth football teams from other districts in Kibera began to emerge, forming a league where teams could compete and improve their skills. Importantly, The New Community Kibera Project seeks to foster independence, not dependence, for the people in the area. This is achieved by connecting and developing partnerships between local people and the UK, as well as by enabling them through the sustainable sharing of resources and ideas.

Happy New Year!

2019 has been a phenomenal year for AFC Stoneham!

Our first team won promotion to the Wessex Premier League for the first time in our 100 year history on a never to be forgotten night at Totton in April, played a cup final at St Mary’s and currently sit 2nd in the higher league.

We continue to strengthen and develop our player pathway with 10 homegrown players having appeared for our first team this season.

Girls and Ladies football is growing all of the time with 5 new girls teams created in 2019, including our fantastic U8 and U9 Girls, with more to follow in the new year whilst our ladies team go from strength to strength.

The club is introducing very young players to the beautiful game on an almost daily basis through our Saturday Fun Club, Girls Wildcats Centre and our very young teams such as our brand new U6 "baby purps" section.

Whilst at the other end of the spectrum we were delighted to form two new veterans teams this year who are both proving to be very successful.

Many of our teams enter the new year near the top of their respective leagues and still in various cup competitions as we have now grown to 41 teams with over 500 players.

Not to forget another superb summer tournament, 7 teams going to Holland in June and of course, the "icing on the cake" has to be the move to our new £10M home next week!

The club would like to say a huge thank you to all of our sponsors, players, managers, coaches, parents and supporters who have all made fantastic contributions to a wonderful and truly memorable 2019 whilst wishing them all a happy new year as we enter 2020.

For the last time this year… Up the Purps!

Last game at the HP Arena?

On Saturday we entertain Bashley FC in a game that could be the last ever first-team game at the HP Arena. We still have to face league leaders Alresford Town next Saturday however if bad weather prevailed tomorrow could be the last game at senior level whilst our young teams will continue to play on the site until September.

The club has been at The old “Pirelli Ground” for some 10 years and enjoyed great success during this time having originally been moved from their old AC Delco / Stoneham Lane ground quite quickly. Eastleigh Borough Council were kind enough to move the club onto our current site which had not been used for some 12-15 years. The club will always be in debt to great club men like Wayne Simpson, Adam Pullinger and Geoff Smith who not only made the move to our current ground possible but also undertook all of the work required to get the facilities and pitch up to the required standard to play county league football.

In the last 5 years, the club has grown from some 12 teams to today’s 41 teams and progressed from the Hampshire County League to the Wessex Premier League. Whilst at the HP Arena the club has appeared in various cup finals, three times at St Mary’s, and developed our youth set up immeasurably to become one of the largest and most successful clubs in the South of England.

The HP Arena has allowed the club to install floodlights, play in the FA Cup, run summer youth tournaments, develop female football, provide training and match venues for all of our teams and much much more!

Whilst the move to our new £10m home is fantastic, exciting and a wonderful opportunity for our club to progress further we will never forget the part the HP Arena played in our clubs continuation and wonderful history. The memories will live forever and the old site will never be forgotten.

New Ground entry - QR Code required

AFC Stonehams main ground entrance is now fully operational therefore each individual gaining access to the facility will need a QR code in order to enter the facility, ALL USERS must register beforehand.

Why do we need to register?

 The FA and Sport England require the data generated from registrations and the reception turnstiles to analyse trends and participation. Furthermore, registration is compulsory to meet our safeguarding requirements . Each registration will be sent a unique QR code that will give them access via the main entrance.

 How do we register?

 Please click on the following link / copy in URL: https://secure.stgeorgespark-local.com/CreateAccount/?OrganisationId=2623

 Can I register others on my account?

Yes, you can register up to 10 people. Account holder must be 18 years old +!

 How do I add another adult / child to my account?

When you have registered your account, please log in and click onto relationships, where you will be able select 'Add Adult' or 'Add Child'.

 How do I retrieve other QR codes on my account?

When you log in and scroll down, you will see 'Relationship to other people' and an arrow '>'. Click this arrow. Please select the URN number. On the next page, you'll be able to retrieve their QR code.

 Can I register on the day?

AFC Stoneham  STRONGLY RECOMMEND registering in advance to avoid delays in entering the facility.

 What happens if I forget my QR code, but I have registered?

 The reception team will be able to assist wherever possible.

 Is there a contact email if I have any concerns?

 For further enquiries, please email stoneham@hampshirefa.com and our team will respond accordingly.

First game at our new home v Sholing Tuesday 14th January 2020 - Hants Senior Cup

AFC Stoneham are delighted to announce that our first-ever senior competitive match at our new stadium will be v Sholing FC on Tuesday, January 14th 7.45 pm kick-off in the Hampshire Senior Cup last 16.

Both clubs are based within Eastleigh Borough Council boundaries and the cup is the Hampshire FAs premier cup competition.

The game recognises the great help and support both organisations have offered our club over the last few years in making our move to our new home a reality.

Both clubs and local grassroots football are hoping for a large crowd on this historic night with the winners hosting a plum tie v Premier League AFC Bournemouth in the quarter-final.