Marlow United Football Club Est.1977 Incorporating Marlow United Youth F.C.

Members of the Sport Italia Hellenic League & the Reading Football League

MAIN SPONSOR

NEWS

Marlow United are supported this season by, MD CORRICK-FOUR SEASONS-ROSS STONECRAFT-GL ATHERTON- & MARLOW ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Without this sponsorship, the football club would have great difficulty in realising its ambitions. The players AND officials of the club would like to thank its sponsors for their continued support.

UNITED SIGN UP NEW SPONSOR

16 October

Marlow United are pleased to announce the signing of a sponsorship deal with local building company T Jones & Son who become the clubs main sponsor as of now. Chairman Bernard Carvell stated “Marlow are delighted to welcome such a prestigious local building company as our main sponsors. Finding a sponsor in today’s economic climate is not easy and I would like to thank all those at the club who have helped negotiate this deal, particularly our manager Kevin, who got the ball rolling, and Mark Corrick who dealt with most of the negotiations. As a club with no home base all our income has to be raised from outside sources and this will enable the club to look to the future with renewed confidence. I would like to thank Trevor and Jamie Jones for supporting the club and I think it is particularly pleasing that we have entered into a relationship with a local firm as we are a truly local football club. We have shown other clubs that you can be ambitious and move up the football pyramid if you have the right set up and enthusiasm within the club”.

Meanwhile Marlow entertain Carterton at Wilks Park on Saturday looking to consolidate their position in the league. They expect to have captain Tristan Heywood, defender Scot Benyon and keeper Carl Murray back from injury as they attempt to improve on Wednesdays draw at Ascot although work, suspensions and holiday commitments mean manager Kevin Carvell will not have a full squad to select from. Although Carterton have only won one game in ten this season that win was against a good Binfield team and they gave front runners Reading Town two close games along with the other undefeated team in the league, Almondsbury Town. Carvell is expecting a tough game after the teams draw at Ascot on Wednesday “We deserved to pick up all three points on Wednesday doing everything but score the winner in the second half. If we can continue that form on Saturday then I feel confident of picking up a win although Carterton will be a difficult game. Unfortunately several players are not available for selection so the team will have a different look to it yet again. It’s frustrating trying to get a settled team and it’s costing us points with the chopping and changing each week. With Shortwood away coming up next a win would be very useful”

DEPLETED UNITED TRAVEL TO HIGHWORTH

9 October

Marlow United are preparing to take on rivals Highworth Town with a much depleted squad with eight of the players away on a weekend in Newcastle. Manager Kevin Carvell will be hoping for no further late withdrawals as he takes a squad of 14 to Wiltshire in an important league fixture. “Highworth have not started the league campaign brilliantly with 3 wins and 3 losses from their seven games so they are going to be keen to improve that record. The fact that they have only played 7 games does mean their league position is false and I would expect them to finish in the top eight come the finish, a position our club is aiming for. This is the sort of game in which we need to get a result if we are intending to stay in the top half of the table and having half our squad missing is certainly not ideal. It’s a bit like a boxer entering the ring with one hand tied behind his back but as our players are all amateurs I cannot dictate to them.It was the same last season when we travelled to Highworth with a scratch team and we lost a close game 3-2, we will be hoping to improve on that result tomorrow”

DOSWELL & ROWLEY SET TO RETURN

1 October

Marlow United received good news this week with the news that last seasons captain Mark Doswell has resumed training following a long term groin injury.Doswell, who signed from Reading League side Cookham Dean at the beginning of last season, was instrumental in keeping United in the Premier Division, deputising in defence for Tristan Heywood who was side lined for most of last season with yet another groin problem and making the transition from step seven to five with relative ease.The injury plagued the player for at least the last three months of the season and Mark aggravated the problem by insisting on playing until Marlow were safe from relegation and subsequently not kicking a football since 22nd April.Although it's early days Mark has received the green light to resume training and was last seen on the treadmill at his local gym.

Former Royal Marine Commando Chris (CD) Rowley rejoins the club following his transfer from Landlords Flackwell Heath. This will be Rowley's 4th time of returning to the club having spent various spells with Marlow FC. Rowley formed part of United's Reading League Championship winning team and the powerful midfielder is a welcome addition to a growing and strengthening squad.

UNITED SNAP UP HARMAN

28 September

Marlow United have signed 20 year old forward Adam Harman from neighbours Marlow FC as they attempt to add fire power before Tuesdays fixture at Abingdon Town.Harman is returning from a long term injury after making a prolific start to his senior career with the Zamaretto League team in 2006 whilst still a youth team player.The player came on as a substitute for Marlow FC in Saturday’s 6-1 defeat of Soham Town, scoring from the penalty spot in the process, but the management of the club have advised the youngster to find himself some regular football to regain his match fitness allowing United to snap up the player.Manager Kevin Carvell also hopes to have Leigh Mason and Andy Nichol back for the Abingdon fixture as they attempt to bounce back from Saturday’s disappointing defeat by Oxford City Nomads.Carvell is also talking to experienced midfielder Chris Rowley, presently out of favour at Flackwell Heath, and is hopeful of adding the player to the United squad in the near future.

MARLOW LOOKING FORWARD TO SATURDAY WITHOUT HEYWOOD

25 September

Marlow United are eagerly looking forward to Saturdays return fixture with Oxford City Nomads at Wilkes Park having suffered a dramatic injury time defeat in the opening game of the season. Still basking in the glow of Tuesdays defeat of Witney Town, probably their finest victory since promotion to the Premier Division, United are now preparing to meet the leagues leading goal scorers in what promises to be an attacking bonanza. Unfortunately for the Bucks team captain Tristan Heywood, outstanding on Tuesday evening, will not be available due to work commitments and the club are also waiting on Leigh Mason who may well be required by Staines Town. Manager Kevin Carvell has drafted in defender Tim Degalas as cover for Heywood and forward Adam Cooper is due to return after a lengthy injury. Nomads are currently the leagues leading scorers with 25 goals from 10 games and with Marlow notching 20 in 9 games it promises to be an eventful afternoon. Both teams Achilles heal would appear to be in defence with Oxford having conceded 25 goals, only three teams having a worse record. Carvell expanded “We felt aggrieved at losing the opening game at Oxford with an incredible 8 minutes of added time in which the home team scored twice so this Saturday gives us an early opportunity to reverse the result. Coming on the back of an excellent performance at Witney the team are really looking to press on and cement a top half position. Lets face it teams like us are not meant to beat the likes of Witney who are set up to play Southern League football and I believe they will be in the shake up for the title. As for Saturday, well looking at Oxfords record it certainly could be a case of they score one and we score two so if you enjoy attacking football get along to Wilks Park

HAVE WE ARRIVED?

23 September

Last night was probably the first time this season where we have under performed on all fronts and certainly the first game this season that we’ve deserved to lose.
Credit to Marlow, who certainly in the first forty five minutes, were by far the better side and we were fortunate to go in just one down.
Flint and Heywood did really well at the back for them and Nicol up top, caused us problems all night, holding the ball up well and bringing other people into the game.
They also had good pace, threat and trickery in the wide positions.

Quote from Andy Lyne Witney United Manager

TENANTS RAID LANDLORDS

18 September 2009

Tenants Marlow United raided ground share landlords Flackwell Heath to bolster their squad, signing Heathens ex youth team players Jamie West and Sam Walters.Marlow manager Kevin Carvell explained “I spoke to Flackwell manager Mat Flint about the two lads who have been unable to break into their squad.Both boys, who are 17 years old, are keen to play and frankly their chances are better at Marlow than Flackwell and Matt was happy to recommend that they join us.We are a bit short on squad numbers and both boys will gain valuable experience at the club”Jamie who is a centre forward and Sam, a naturally left footed defender, both played a part in Marlow’s 3-0 win at Shrivenham coming on as substitutes in the second half.“They both did well when they came on and that was an added bonus to an excellent result.I was delighted that we kept a clean sheet and it’s no coincidence that we had Captain Tristan Heywood back in defence for the game.We have been scoring plenty of goals, 16 in seven matches, including three hat tricks by three different players, but conceding far too many and a clean sheet is just what we needed especially with Saturdays home fixture with Binfield looming.They gave us a 3-0 thrashing on Bank holiday Monday so this is our chance to reverse that result and a repeat of Wednesday’s performance could well result in a close game.We are gradually getting our more experienced players back and things are looking a lot more promising”

CRAWFORD MAKES LEAGUE HISTORY

Rob Crawford, United's young reserve team centre back may well create history this Saturday if selected for the Reading Football League starting eleven against the Somerset County League in the FA National Systems Cup at Bristol. If Rob starts the match he will be the first reserve team player ever selected for the league. Rob has been selected for the representative team and is the only player outside the Senior Division in the squad. However, there is a sting in the tail of this story as those who know Rob will know that he was a stalwart at the heart of the United first team defence for nearly two seasons appearing as a regular in United's promotion drive to the Premier Division of the Hellenic League and until Christmas 2008 was a regular at Premier Division level. so Saturdays big match should hold no fears for Rob and we wish him well.

OVENS THE MAIN MAN AS UNITED PREPARE FOR THE BIG KICK OFF.

3 August 2009

Lee Ovens was voted Marlow United player of the year recently for his exploits during the 2008-09 season. The award was richly deserved as Lee played for United 56 times out of a possible 57 matches last season, an incredible tale of endurance and reliability. What made Ovens achievement even more inspiring was the fact that the full backs move from Cookham Dean to United also meant a leap up the pyramid from step 7 to step 5 and he along with team mate Mark Doswell made the move in seamless fashion. So congratulations to Lee, Dan Pedley, Dan Flint and Wayne Murphy who won respective honours for last seasons efforts.

United face Oxford City away in their first league encounter this season closely followed by the visit of Hallen (Bristol) for an FA Cup extra preliminary round match at Wilks Park on Saturday 15 August. The winners of this match face either Lymington Town or Harrow Hill at home on 29 August. The winners of this match face a trip to the Isle of Wight to meet Brading Town. United have been drawn away in the 1st Qualifying round of the FA Vase where they travel to Melksham Town (Swindon), the winners of this match will be at home to Fairford Town on Saturday 19 September and then another potential trip to the Isle of Wight to take on Cowes Sports in the first round proper. Wembley beckons for everyone at this stage!

COULL & MASON RETURN

18th January 2009

Callum Coull & Jonny Mason have returned to the club following a double transfer from Chalfont Wasps, both players experienced mixed fortunes at the Wasps with Mason being an integral part of the Wasps treble winning team last season but recently fell out of favour with the club. Coull one of United's original 'young guns' has had a couple of insignificant seasons as he has failed to settle down, moving between various clubs including Flackwell Heath and Marlow FC before moving to Chalfont Wasps. United's recent downturn in form has in the main been down to injuries and suspensions that decimated the United squad and at a time when they came up against the leagues 'big hitters'. Coull & Mason return to the squad along with Jason Bowler who has suffered a two month lay off through injury and its anticipated that Ben Filmore will commence training this week following a back injury that has seen him sidelined for 6 weeks, he will be joined by keeper Carl Murray who has been absent following a fracture received in the FA Vase back in September. United's injury list while diminishing still sees skipper Tristan Heywood sidelined with a long standing hernia problem and regrettably he may well be out until the back end of the season. With Mark Doswell returning from Australia and Lewis Brown returning from a knee injury a welcome injection of optimism and competition for places is being enjoyed as United prepare to fight for their Premier Division lives beginning at Milton United on Tuesday evening.

HALF TERM REPORT

4th January 2009

United's newly found Premier Division status is in peril and that is abundantly clear as they prepare for the second half of the season. Having played 24 league matches thus far United find themselves in 16th position out of 22 teams but closer scrutiny reveals that the teams below them, generally, have many games in hand, however further scrutiny reveals that United have played 15 of these matches away which is of great significance at Premier Division level and of equal significance is the number of midweek away matches United have played. So with 17 league matches remaining just 6 of these are away and following Saturdays long haul to Harrow Hill a much more local feel will be enjoyed as United have 11 home matches to look forward to and just 5 away where the travelling will have no significant affect.

A bright start to the season saw United knock the powerful Hungerford Town out of the FA Cup and take the even more powerful Beaconsfield Sycob all the way in the following round before succumbing, somewhat unluckily, to a 1-0 defeat. A disappointing defeat in the FA Vase was more than made up for as United found themselves in a healthy 8th spot in the table adding to a quarter final clinching 2-1 victory at Abingdon Town in the Berks & Bucks FA Senior Trophy and United's season looked to be set up for a reasonable as could be expected campaign. What United had not taken into account was the vast amount of games that they would play in such a short space of time as Tuesday followed Saturday followed Tuesday and as the games grew so did the injury list and this put immediate pressure on players who had managed to avoid injury with already tired legs slowed down. This in turn put immense pressure on United's reserve teams with the outcome of eventually having to fold the third team as the demand on reserve team players eventually and inevitably sucked the life out of the third team. Perhaps the significant turning point came when United visited the marvellous Marriott's Stadium to take on one of the favourites Witney United and here the stark contrast between the two clubs and many others in the Premier Division became apparent. United battled back from a 0-3 opening ten minute salvo to narrowly lose 2-3 but an inferiority complex was growing although this was quickly dispelled as United went on a 4 match unbeaten run including qualification for two more cup quarter finals which are yet to be played and this included a super 2-1 win over mighty Witney United in the SBJ Challenge Cup. A long Tuesday night trip through the dark and foggy lanes of the Cotswolds was to prove a nemesis as the team inevitably was struck down by SatNav disaster and turned up just 10 minutes before kick off, preparation at this level is crucial and inevitably United were crushed out of sight by 6-0. A further 0-3 defeat was followed up by two straight 6-0 hammerings and somewhere between all of this United relinquished their grip on the Reading Senior Cup with a 2-1 defeat against an ordinary Henley side. With nowhere to turn and nowhere to hide United found an ally in General Winter and have now entered into a period of respite to heal injured limbs and rest aching legs allowing time for reflection and to prepare for what is yet to come and it is here that a slight glimmer of light may be found as United find in front of them just one more Tuesday evening league away match in a relatively short journey to Milton. Two home cup quarter final matches to look forward to and a string of home league matches that in comparison with the first half of the season represent a relative cake walk, if only there were such a thing at this level!.............................It has been in fact a baptism of fire and United's survival is dependant on the continued backbone clearly demonstrated by the likes of Pedley, Ovens, Britnell, Brown etc added to this the return of key players long discarded through injury and the realisation that each player as individuals and as a team face the biggest challenge they have ever faced in their footballing careers. As one celebrating away supporter commented 'your team is punching above its weight' well the team can punch harder as demonstrated in the opening months. While the big 6 are in a position to offer bizarre amounts of money to entice top players to their clubs this is not the case of the many and it is these that United need to get amongst and score points. It is obvious that United are the poor relations to all financially but in its team it has players who are honest and know nothing of being unsuccessful and with three enticing cup quarter finals to look forward to there is no reason why they cannot bring yet more honour to themselves and the club that they represent. Should United have entered the Premier Division? knowing full well that it had skipped three years ahead of its plan? Too far to quickly? Well its still the view that to stop still is an even bigger death knell and it has to be better to have competed than not to have tried. United's management team of Carvell, Wiltshire and Sciaraffa have vowed to see things through to the bitter or successful end demonstrating manager Kevin Carvell's 10 year tenureship and the loyalty that loyalty rewards..................So United with their backs against the wall and under siege move on rested and aware of the challenge that lays before them beginning next Saturday at Harrow Hill and quickly followed up on Tuesday with an enticing Berks & Bucks Senior Trophy Quarter Final against landlords Flackwell Heath........Much to play for......

WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH PART II............................

29th November 2008

United's trip to Hook Norton on Tuesday evening heralds the halfway point in the league season for the club. Depending on the result United will find themselves around mid table at this milestone and can then take stock of their season so far. Incredibly the match at Hook will be United's 30th competitive fixture to date! Compare this to United's reserve team who will play just 20 league games for the whole season then the task United have set themselves becomes even more apparent. However the light at the end of the tunnel will be following Tuesdays match that only 7 out of the remaining 21 league matches will be away. The difference in playing home and away at this level is marked so everything points towards United's traditional second half of the season climb of the table. United can also use the comparator of Chalfont Wasps who were promoted with United and their season to date has been remarkable as they have forced themselves into the position of contenders already. But that's where the comparison stops as Chalfont had a 20 year head start over Marlow. United who just 3 seasons ago were playing in the Reading Football League have made remarkable strides and can be justly proud of their achievements and this of course reflects considerably on its playing staff. Manager Kevin Carvell in his 10th year at the helm has yet again built a team around reliability, solidity with necessary flair, but its main strength is character and the team made up of the clubs original 'young guns' still mentored by its original injection of experience has been enhanced by the inclusion of a number of players who just a few months ago were still plying their trade in the Reading Football League and whose transition from step 7 to step 5 has been to the unobservant eye sensational, but to those who have observed is no shock at all as their discipline, character and determination has helped to drive United forward and enabled the team to punch well above its weight which was typified by yesterdays performance against mighty Witney United who are destined based on their splendid stadium and set up to return sooner rather than later to the Southern League. Throw in an FA Cup shock against Hungerford and a frightingly narrow 1-0 exit away to Southern League Beaconsfield SYCOB in the following round its clear that the club has much to be proud of. United currently find themselves 13th in the table out of 22 and with three cup quarter finals looming in front of them including a mighty battle with landlords Flackwell Heath in the quarter final of the Berks & Bucks Senior Trophy. Much to play for and much to do.............So on we go.............

NO PAIN NO GAIN

19th October 2008

United came into this season fully aware that it would be a learning curve and they were handed out lessons a plenty from an enthusiastic and high tempo Almondsbury team yesterday. How to travel a 100 miles + and start the match running; how to beat 10 men; how to defend a 2-0 lead on the front foot albeit assisted by the almost immediate dismissal of Olly Flint following the second goal; how to play and compete two matches a week. The visitors from Bristol were by far and above the best team United have played this season in all competitions and provided a good lesson on what perhaps is required to become Hellenic League Champions. Provided Marlow learn wisely from this match then the pain of defeat will reap its own dividends in the fullness of time. Mind for a twenty minute period prior to the second goal United had pulled themselves back into the match creating two good opportunities before succumbing to a sucker punch on the stroke of half time. Much should have been gained from yesterday; so on we go.

FLACKWELL HEATH v MARLOW UNITED

JUST ANOTHER GAME?.................

12th October 2008

The long awaited league encounter with Flackwell Heath takes place this Tuesday evening at Wilks Park and while it is just another game it provides yet another important milestone for United. For years the tussle for the tag of 'top dogs' in the immediate vicinity has been between Marlow FC and Flackwell Heath FC now the old order is threatened, but regardless of the result Tuesday evening the match itself presents a major landmark in United's short history, who would have thought just a few short years ago that United would take the field in the same division as their ground hosts.

RESERVES AND A TEAM GET THE GREEN LIGHT!!! After many trials and tribulations centred around the new photo ID rules that preside in the Reading Football League the club now have 45 players signed, photographed and registered. So the season starts in earnest next Saturday for our reserve players and now its time for catch up!!

WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH.................

14th September 2008

Well nobody said it would be easy but its important for United to hang in there, the games have come thick and fast and knocks and injuries have taken their toll but Marlow can now put their feet up until next Saturday and take stock of the season so far, what they have encountered, where they have gone wrong, where they have gone right and what is to come. A fine debut performance against Kidlington was followed up by a narrow 1-0 defeat at home to Hook Norton in a game that could have been won as easily as it was lost. The game against Reading Town produced a first half performance that was worth far more than the 2-0 margin that United took into half time before eventually emerging 2-1 victors to record their first victory at this level. Marlow put in a poor performance against Abingdon Town before eventually losing 1-0. To throw away a 3-1 lead is unforgivable particularly with just 15 minutes remaining and it is difficult to mitigate, however those who watched the match would have been impressed by Milton's performance and clearly they will emerge at the top end of the table by Xmas. Hungerford are flying now and United's makeshift team can be pleased to have at least produced a performance albeit eventually losing 3-0. Injuries to key players have played their part Carl Murray, Carl Reeve, Dan Pedley, Ollie Flint and Ian Green are notable victims but Ollie Flint commences training again and will soon return as will Jason Bowler and both will add a significant 'punch' to United's attacking prowess. This is a season of consolidation and learning but Marlow clearly have the wherewithal to achieve far more than just survival. They are fortunate or perhaps its more a reflection on Manager Carvell's team building skills to have a group of players who will not walk away just because the going is tough, after all this is why they are here! indeed these players undoubtedly will respond to the challenges that lie ahead with relish, discipline and a deep founded self belief in their ability and the ability of their team mates. A test of character awaits this United team and as in the past expectations are that they as both individuals and a team will pass with flying colours, of that there can be no doubt. Some will recall United's first season in Division One East when by Xmas time they found themselves languishing in the bottom 4 but self belief and determination saw the team emerge into a 7th place position a platform that took United to where they are today. So its with this in mind that United will take the field at Shrivenham next Saturday knowing that just one solitary victory could prove a turning point in what is proving to be a very competitive league. It would be churlish not to recognise the flying start that Chalfont Wasps have made to the season which finds them top of the league, anything is possible and the author predicts come season end all at United will have been pleased with progress to date.

UNITED PREPARE FOR BIGGEST MATCH IN 31 YEAR HISTORY

28th August 2008 -

The season has started as anticipated with the action fast and furious but although it is very much early days United's mixed bag of results have largely been positive and while much tougher days lay ahead United have already shown that they have the capability of doing more than just fighting for survival. The games will come thick and fast at this level and niggling injuries and suspensions are bound to play their part so the only real question so far is that is the United squad strong enough in both numbers and depth. Well the early day positives are the discovery of a class goalkeeper in Carl Murray and a quality left back in Ryan Britnell. Both of these players have exuded confidence in the back line but do have the advantage of experience at step 5 and 6 respectively and are clearly here for the long term. The step up for most of the team is slight but nevertheless significant but for the two new signings from Cookham Dean, Mark Doswell and Lee Ovens it is even more so as they take what can be considered a leap from step 7 to 5 but both players are settling in better and faster than what maybe even they anticipated and already command regular first team spots and will surely go on to become even better players than what they were before joining the club. The form of young Rob Crawford (18) is slowly coming together and this young man has a great future in front of him. A notable partnership is forming between Lewis Brown and James Flint and they are clearly going to be a thorn in many a defences side. Ian Green and Nick Flint both members of United's 2005 championship winning team have both returned from voluntary reserve team action and are playing like they have never been away.

So it is with realistic confidence that United make the short trip to play Beaconsfield Sycob (Slough Youth Centre Old Boys for the uninitiated) of the Southern League and plying their trade at step 4 in an FA Cup tie this coming Saturday. With memories of two epic cup ties with Hungerford Town still strong in the memory United will go into the match with self belief and determined to pull off what would be a major cup shocker. United played Beaconsfield in a friendly match just a few short weeks ago at Bisham Abbey and lost narrowly by 3-2 but the scoreline did not always reflect Beaconsfield's domination for long periods so United will be very aware that only the top game will suffice if they are to make local headlines and perhaps the competitions 'giant killers' round award. Beaconsfield will start as hot favourites of that there is no doubt but it is the FA Cup and far stranger things have happened. United will be buoyed by a fine 2-1 victory away to Reading Town but equally Beaconsfield go into the match on the back of a three match winning sequence including a 2-0 win over the much fancied AFC Totton. The winners will be away to Bishops Cleeve also of the Southern League in the 1st Qualifying Round.

Next week United travel to Amesbury Town near Stonehenge for a 1st Qualifying Round FA Vase tie. Dreams of Wembley continue on both fronts!

UNITED READY FOR THE UNKNOWN!

6th August 2008 -

United move into the new season and the step up to the Premier Division with measured confidence as the squad begins to take shape.

United have retained the services of most of last teams squad although Matt Pollard (Chalfont Wasps) and Tony Cooper (Flackwell Heath) have left the club to take up coaching roles. Callum Coull continues his journeying and has signed for Chalfont Wasps while Ross Middleton has retired and Chris Rowley has returned to Marlow FC. United wish all of their former players success with their new clubs.

On the plus side James Flint has rejoined the club and is joined by what the club consider as two major signings from friends and local rivals Cookham Dean. Both Lee Ovens and Mark Doswell have joined United and while they have jumped two levels have already proven during pre-season that they have much to offer in what will be an exciting season for Marlow. Ryan Britnell joins the club from Prestwood and is a fine young defender who much is expected from this season. Carl Murray signs from Flackwell Heath as United look to fill the gap left by its two former quality goalkeepers. Two more signings are imminent and will be announced shortly.

On the signings of Ovens and Doswell from Cookham Dean General Manager Alan Turner said “The signing of Mark and Lee is bound to raise controversy locally, but both players have been loyal servants to Cookham Dean for a number of years and join us not because the grass is greener or for mercenary reasons but for the challenge that we can provide. While some clubs are happy to remain where they are albeit at the top of their particular tree it’s not right to expect players of a certain ability to do the same and Lee and Mark are clearly up for a new challenge which their undoubted talents demand. Undoubtedly their signing has raised a few eyebrows locally but we know they have left their former club in good health and amicably and we are equally sure that Cookham will wish their former players success. This season will be a challenging one for the club and particularly for both Mark and Lee as they have to negotiate the gap between step 7 and step 5 as well as familiarising themselves with new team mates and a style of play. Both are gifted individuals and are used to playing within a team ethic which fits well with our own structure and we are absolutely confident that these two fine players will rise to the challenge and prove to be successful as already demonstrated in pre season matches so far”

United are off to a tough start as they face Kidlington at home on Tuesday 12^th August quickly followed by a journey down the M4 to Hungerford Town in the FA Cup on Saturday 16^th August, the winners of this match will face Beaconsfield Sycob away in the next round. United have been drawn away to Amesbury Town in the FA Vase on Saturday 6^th September with the winners meeting Melksham Town at home a couple of weeks later.

United also claim another first this season when they make their debut in the Berks & Bucks Senior Trophy against Abingdon Town. Henley Town provide the opposition when United begin the defence of the Reading Senior Cup and also provide the opposition in the HPL Floodlit Cup with Reading Town or Fairford Town providing the opposition in the SBJ Challenge Cup.

United’s pre season was meticulously planned including two headline games against Southern League Beaconsfield Sycob and Combined Counties Runners Up and FA Vase Semi-Finalists Camberley Town. Despite losing both matches by the odd goal Manager Kevin Carvell will be heartened by what he has seen so far.

United General Manager Alan Turner went on to say “We have no illusions about the task facing us, but these are the challenges that this club thrives on and in Dan Pedley, Gary Wiltshire, Jason Bowler, Tristan Heywood and Marco Sciaraffa we have players who have performed above this level so as in previous seasons we believe the mix of experience, ability and youth will steer us into calm waters” We are of course realistic and know this must be a season of consolidation using the cup matches to provide some relief from what will be a hectic schedule” He went on to say “ We play our host club Flackwell Heath in the league in October, this will provide a significant moment in this clubs short history and only then will we probably realise that we have arrived as such a fixture was beyond our wildest dreams just a few short years ago”

Assistant Manager Mattie Flint who has been instrumental in United’s rise up the league pyramid has retired from football. Manager Kevin Carvell was quick to fill the massive gap left by Flint’s departure by appointing former Maidenhead United players Gary Wiltshire Assistant Player Manager and Marco Sciaraffa as Head Coach. Carvell said” Words cant describe the contribution made by Mattie over the last 6 years and he will be sorely missed but in both Gary and Marco we have two players who have played at a high level and have much experience so the transition will be seamless, therefore we move on”

UNITED COME OF AGE

19th May -

United's rapid emergence now sees the flying blues compete in the Berks & Bucks Senior Trophy next season. Originally United had been excluded from County Cup competition for season 2008-09 as playing in the FA Vase and FA Cup excludes all of their players from the lower competitions. However a sudden realisation by the Berks & Bucks FA that Marlow United are now a step 5, (yes even they had lost sight) FA Cup competing team saw a quick reshuffle and they have now been entered into the trophy where they will be competing with their new step 5 brothers :-). A long way in a short time..................

SEASON ENDS ON A HIGH

11th May -

United ended their season with a lavish end of season ball to celebrate the clubs 30th Anniversary at the Crowne Plaza on Friday evening. The event was a complete success with 140 participants who came along to support the football club enjoying the night right through to its 3am finish. The keynote speech was delivered at 9pm followed by a presentation of trophies, auction and raffle.

KEYNOTE SPEECH

OPENING

"May I on behalf of the Management Committee thank you very much for turning up this evening to help us celebrate the clubs 30^th anniversary. Your support tonight ensures the medium term future of this football club and we thank you all for that support."

"Sponsorship at this level is nigh on impossible to find so I would just like to welcome our kit sponsors and club members Mark Corrick and Steve Coker who are kit sponsors for the First and Second team respectively, I just hope their wives know that!"

"When I was asked to make a speech tonight it occurred to me that I had to somehow pack 30 years of the football clubs history into just ten minutes or so, therefore I’m going to provide an overview of how we got to where we are today and the salient points that I believe stand out as markers along the way."

"It also occurred to me that there are important elements that need to be remembered so I decided to do this speech by script rather than on from memory as it is necessarily important, Im sure you will agree, not to forget milestones and names on such a significant occasion. So I apologise if it drones a bit."

THE CLUB & HONOURS

"Formed in 1977 the club began life in the Wycombe League 5^th Division and as a pointer for the future the marker was laid down with promotion and a cup final being the achievements of that very first season. The following season United gained promotion from Division 2 but were expunged from the Wycombe league. This was to prove to be one of many defining moments. The club, largely down to the efforts of Geoff Turner and Roddy Flint joined the East Berks League and during that first season in a new league the club won their first league championship and went on to win the Berks & Bucks FA Junior Cup, something that has proved a nemesis to managers that have followed, but nevertheless it set the benchmark for all to aspire too. Of course those achievements pale compared to today but nonetheless they are the foundations on which this club was built, and that’s the legacy that the team of 1980 left the club, and a legacy that many of our teams have upheld over the years."

THE PLAYERS

"Over 2000 players have pulled on the shirt over the previous 30 years and that’s far too many to mention in the 10 minutes allocated to me. So I will mention no names, because while there of course have been key influential players all of our players are, or were, all as important as each other."

THE MANAGER’S

"The best way for me to run through the clubs history and probably most expedient is to headline the managers who have taken the mantle and moulded and shaped the clubs destiny while adding significant moments to the clubs history. "

GEOFF TURNER

"Was the first manager and also a founder member, it was under his leadership that the foundations of the club were built. Geoff built and led the team of 1980 that set the benchmark."

GRAHAM PRITCHARD

"Graham Pritchard followed Geoff, and in his first season had the unenviable achievement of finishing the season unbeaten in the East Berks league, but losing the championship on goal difference. Graham then led the team back to the Wycombe League and unaccountably the league opted to put United in a lower division. However promotion was secured in that first season but bizarrely, the league refused United the promotion they had earned on merit. The following season United again achieved promotion as 1^st Division Champions and this time the league promoted the club to the then Ercol Senior Section, where United went on to win the Wycombe & District Football League Championship, as well as making a first appearance in the Wycombe Senior Cup Final at Loakes Park, the former home of Wycombe Wanderers. Graham with his job complete then moved on to Wooburn Athletic and ultimately Marlow FC."

"Perhaps and arguably the most defining moment in the clubs history occurred when the club opted to join what then was called the Reading & District Football League."

"Geoff Turner, assisted by Graham Hickman, returned to take United into the Senior Division of the Reading League following promotion from the Premier Division as well as capturing the Maidenhead Senior Cup at York Road beating Wokingham Town 2-1. Geoff eventually returned to Flackwell Heath FC where he now enjoys the role of Chairman."

NEIL DICKENS/AIDY PERRY

"Neil Dickens took over at a difficult time and helped guide the club through relatively obscure and troubled times, although still enjoying senior status, however the club was finding life difficult but Neil kept the ship steered towards calmer waters as the club was tottering and struggling for its very existence. Aidy Perry another founder member then picked up the reins as United at this time playing out of Higginson Park were struggling to cope with life in the Senior Division."

MARTIN FLINT

"With the club on the brink of extinction it was Martin Flint who stepped to the fore and calmed things down lifting the club up by its collar before steering it to two successive Wycombe Senior Cup Final successes at Adams Park ably assisted by Mark Corrick."

ROD FLINT

"By now however United were wallowing in the Premier Division and the helm was taken up by Martin’s brother Rod, yet another founder member and the emergence of what was to be termed throughout the local press as ‘young guns’ was borne, as Rod introduced the first of a group of talented 15 year olds to the club, stability was brought back to the club and Rod, job done, moved to the side."

KEVIN CARVELL

"When Kevin took over we knew that the minimum we would get was passion, commitment and loyalty, and we haven’t been disappointed. Kevin has shown all three during his tenure although sometimes Kev and I do have reason to discuss the ‘passion’ side of his nature! "

"Kevin is a one-club man having made his debut as a 17-year-old;………… Kevin has never known another club."

"Since he took over he has learned from his peers and developed into a fine and successful manager and we look forward to many more successful years under his tenure."

"With his playing career cut short by injury Kev took over the helm and immediately took the team to the Reading Football League Premier Division Championship, as well as a first of many painful appearances at the Madejski Stadium. At this time we had gained a few experienced senior players and significantly a breed of younger player who the press quickly recognised as United’s ‘young guns’. Wherever we went plaudits followed as United climbed the Senior Division table."

"I remember a ‘local Reading’ football legend called XXXX XXXXXX saying to me “that whatever you do, keep your manager and that team together” Words of wisdom that were recognised long before they were spoken".

"At last the club won the Reading Football League Championship but again the Madejski eluded us. The following season we defended the championship to the final 20 minutes of the season before relinquishing it to a late goal but once the dust had settled Kevin had led us to our finest achievement by gaining promotion to the Hellenic League, but again the Madejski eluded us. Our first season in the Hellenic was solid, a debut in the FA Vase and a final league position of 7^th heralded a major step change, but again the Madejski eluded us!"

"This season of course as Im sure you are all aware has provided yet another defining moment in the clubs history with a historic debut in the FA Cup and an amazing five trophies being won, but while ultimately it is the clubs triumph it is also Kevin and Wayne Murphy’s and I will leave that story for Kevin to tell in a few moments."

SO WHERE ARE WE TODAY? "We find ourselves at step 5 of the pyramid system, unimaginable just a few short years ago and nobody dreamed we could ever get to such lofty heights all those years back, when the club was formed, but ‘here we are’ and also the FA Cup and FA Vase register on our radar."

"Next season we shall appear in the Berks & Bucks FA Senior Trophy…. We’ve come a long way from Chesham Hill…………"

"The first team of course and necessarily so is run in the most professional way possible for a club of our size and I know that Kevin will endorse me when I say that a lot of this is down to Mattie Flint our Assistant/Player Manager who came along 5 years or so ago and took us along with Kevin to a different platform. Mathew’s contribution has been significant and I think it important to recognise that this evening."

"Will you please join me in applauding Mathew. On behalf of this football club, thank you Mattie."

"Significantly we added a youth team to our ranks this season and they in their first season and in the true traditions of this football club have captured the Bucks Free Press Junior League Division 4 title so well done to Neil, Tim and Aidy and all of the unsung heroes that have made that possible, “please applaud our youth team”

"Kevin will tell you of our overall achievements this season but for all we have achieved on the field nothing would be possible without a team of people in the background supporting the club, and even telling us off occasionally, well often actually! I mentioned unsung heroes a moment ago and without our own this football club would not be where it is today and definitely not here tonight!"

"Please recognise the effort that Alison, Rae, Sarah and Sheridan have put in to make tonight possible, which in itself will ensure the medium term future of this football club. They are the financial arm of this football club ----Please recognise our sub-committee"

SO WHERE ARE WE GOING? "A good question and in simple terms we don’t really know as we now enter the unknown and remarkably we are now just one division behind our close neighbours Marlow FC… Which is all a bit scary really!! "

"What we do know is that we shall give it our best shot and in the past that has always been good enough and there’s nothing to suggest it won’t be good enough, ongoing."

"There is one more thing for me to do before I finish."

"I did say that I would mention no players this evening but that’s not quite possible as I cant let such a night like tonight go without recognising a special achievement and it would be churlish to allow that achievement go unnoticed."

"When I was Assistant Manager to Graham I watched him make his debut as a 16-year-old left back in the first team, a position that would earn him legendary status within this football club."

"He was a first team regular for almost 20 years and is still going strong as Player/Manager to our A team as well as supporting the club in a hundred other different ways."

"There has never been a season in his 26 years with the club that he has not pulled on the blue shirt of United, Please welcome our Club Captain MARTIN FLINT."

"Kevin will come up now to present this long service award".

"Thanks for hearing me out enjoy the rest of the evening and I will now hand you over to our team manager Kevin Carvell………... "

CLOSE

MIRACLE AT THE MADEJSKI!!!

7th May -

United secured a Reading Senior and Junior Cup double on Tuesday evening to finish the season in style as the elusive hat trick of Wycombe, Maidenhead and Reading Senior Cups was finally landed. This was not one of Marlow's best performances and some say they expended the last of that against Chalfont Wasps to secure promotion but whatever the reason the fact is that in the end United were just too strong for their opponents who gave their all but found the United defence unbreakable. As the game wore on Westwood visibly weakened and United dominated large periods of the second half and deservedly ran out winners.

ONLY OUR BEST WILL DO TO END MADEJSKI HEARTACHE"

6th May - Nothing less than a first class performance will do to capture the Reading Senior Cup at the Madejski Stadium tonight says Assistant Player/Manager Mattie Flint. Westwood will be buoyant after capturing the Reading Football League title on Saturday and will be confident of achieving a superb double. However, Flint went on to say, if we reach the heights that we are capable of there are few teams at our level or below who can live with us and we need to find a performance in this competition and I will be happy if we have saved our best form for the final itself, nothing less will be enough.

United have plodded their way to the final but will be encouraged as in recent years they have stormed all the way to the final only to fall at the final hurdle against Checkendon on penalties, Cookham Dean 0-2, Ascot United 2-5 and Highmoor-Ibis 1-5 but this United is regarded at the strongest ever and with Carvell expecting to be able to select from a fully fit squad confidence is high that United can secure its own double dream............we will soon know!

HEARTBREAK HOTEL OR THEATRE OF DREAMS?

4 May - For the fifth time United will step out at the Madejski Stadium to attempt to break the Mad Stad hoodoo when they meet newly crowned Reading Football League Champions Westwood United on Tuesday evening. This will be be United's third consecutive Reading Senior Cup Final appearance. United have been far from convincing in this seasons competition and their anthem of "how we got their we don't care" was never more apt. A struggling 2-1 won over lowly West Reading was followed up by a penalty shoot out over Finchampstead before scrambling past relegated Woodcote in the quarter finals and little Frilsham put in a valiant and mighty effort in the semi final United somehow saw them off albeit deservedly so but that has been the story of United's season as in the league they have dropped crucial points to lower placed teams Perhaps significantly they have shone when it really mattered and its with this in mind they will step into the Madejski cauldron on Tuesday evening.

Wayne's wonders fell just short on Saturday as they fell to the new Premier Division Champions Cookham Dean. United's 'no first teamers' policy has held the club in good stead this season helping to forge closer bonds between the teams and highlighting the importance of feeding the first team as well as being a vehicle for injured players to return for match fitness. Clearly a Marlow 'level playing field' differs to a Cookham 'level playing field' mind they play at the top of a slope so perhaps its understandable! Nevertheless we offer our congratulations to our friends from across the water and wish them future success in their League Cup Final on 15 May.. As for United reserves they have won the Reading Junior Cup and received the runners up spot in the Premier Division and nobody would have thought that possible just a few months back so the football club will receive no less than four accolades this season which is a marvellous achievement. All this of course has been supported by the A team who have struggled a little this season but can now look forward to a new wave of young guns who come of age during the close season.

Whatever happens at the Madejski Stadium on Tuesday evening Marlow United will be stepping out in the Hellenic League Premier Division next season which by itself is a stunning and marvellous achievement and puts the club just one division behind its close neighbours Marlow FC............Amazing but true!!!!!!!!!!

UNITED WIN THE CUP!

27 April - Marlow United's reserve team deservedly won the Reading Junior Cup at Newbury FC's Faraday Road Stadium on Saturday after extra time dominating long periods of the match. Berks County Sports clearly taking a note out of Sir Alex Ferguson's Nou Camp tactics offered little in the way of attacking prowess and eventually succumbed to inevitable defeat, however if it was a plan then it worked for a 100 minutes but 120 minutes is a long and risky strategy to play for a penalty shoot out and Dan Flint and Vinnie Cuva ended their hopes with some eventual clinical finishing to bring the Reading Junior Cup home for a second time. United have the opportunity to win a unique double and treble all at the same time as if there 1st team were to win the Reading Senior Cup they will be the first team to win the treble of Wycombe, Maidenhead and Reading Senior Cups as well as capturing both Senior & Junior Cups in the same season. But first the small matter of winning the semi final and if successful overcoming the hoodoo at the 'heartbreak hotel' better known as the Madejski Stadium. Whatever happens its been a magnificent season for the club with the reserves scheduled to go head to head with our old friends and rivals from over the water next Saturday 3rd May a fixture United were considering taking to their Wilks Park home but have decided against this and the fixture will take place at Gossmore Lane, KO 2-30pm if United win they will be crowned Premier Division Champions.

GRAND FINALE!!

13 April - With the club seemingly rolling onwards and upwards to the Hellenic League Premier Division the spotlight turns toward the vibrant and healthy supporting cast that have provided the strength in depth and numbers that have enabled United to reach the threshold of step 5 football. The emphasis this season has been first team at all costs and United's reserve and A teams have suffered tremendously due to this strategy. But under the leadership of Wayne Murphy and Martin Flint respectively the club has moved forward as a unit with no splits or resentment and using the adage 'you reap what you sow' it is all coming good at the business end of the season. For a good few weeks now United's first team for the first time this season has gone on an injury free run which in turn has led to a natural strengthening of the reserve team which in turn has seen the reserve team reach the Reading Junior Cup Final and a late and up to now sustained albeit late challenge for the Premier Division Title. With further players returning from suspension this can only further enhance and strengthen the reserve team who seem hell bent on providing an exciting end to the season long after the dust may have settled on the clubs promotion challenge. With a Reading Senior Cup Semi-Final yet to be contested the club can look back with some satisfaction, regardless of the outcome to yet another successful and exciting season. BUT ALREADY the first honours of the season have been reaped with the youth team already crowned Champions of the Bucks Free Press Junior Football League (under 13) which is a tremendous compliment for the efforts put in by Tim Moores and Aidy Perry who are of course ably supported by their own committee, the team of 2012 are learning a habit that will hold them in good stead when they eventually convert to senior football.

RETURN OF THE FIVE !!

24 March - The return of James Flint to United has heralded a major boost to morale as United face the final run in to what is hoped will be a successful climax to the season. Along with James, United welcome back Callum Coull and Chris CD Rowley. Both Coull and Flint began their careers with United and have recently enjoyed playing at step 4 with Marlow but have now returned to their roots to help provide United with the armoury in their bid for promotion to step 5. Another welcome sight is midfield stalwart CD Rowley who returns from a long injury which saw him sidelined for 18 months, a fit again Rowley is a major asset to United's ambitions. Also United welcome old boy Adam North back to the fold. Adam has recently transferred from Penn & Tylers Green where he successfully held down a first team spot for several seasons also representing the league on occasions. Prior to this Adam played for United as a 16 year old and the experience he has gained can only be a major plus to an already strengthening squad which is further enhanced by the return of young Lewis Brown from injury. So its with optimism that United face the final difficult weeks ahead.

ALL HAIL THE RESERVES!!

16 March - Wayne Murphy's triumphant reserve team have made it through to the Reading Junior Cup Final following a dramatic penalty shoot out over Twyford & Ruscombe recently. United started hot favourites to reach the final but 2nd Division Twyford took them all the way to a penalty shoot out which United won 4-3. So congratulations to the reserve team on providing our first success and we hope is not our only success this season.

ALL HAIL THE YOUTH TEAM!

16 March - Marlow United Youths 1-0 victory over Bedgrove Dynamos has clinched a certain promotion spot in the South Bucks Minor League. One more victory and they will be promoted as champions!!

WELCOME HOME!!

16 March - James Flint's return to United heralds an exodus back to the club of all but one of United's original so called 'young guns', Callum Coull's recent return emphasises this fact. While these players have grown older they are still of an average age of just 22 and have good experience of football at Step 4 so are bound to be an asset to the club over the next couple of defining months and with the Hellenic League declaring that if successful in gaining a promotion position United will be granted promotion it all adds up to an exciting and optimistic conclusion to the season.

THE ONLY WAY IS UP?

1st February - Following a management committee meeting and the deadline fast approaching for all clubs wishing to gain promotion if earned the decision was made that if United finish in the top three and the Hellenic League approve the application then United will take the step up into the Premier Division (step 5) next season. If achieved this will be yet another landmark in this little clubs remarkable recent history. Putting the club 3 years ahead of its plan United will remain an 'amateur' football club in its entirety. It was also agreed that United would only accept promotion on merit.

MURPHY HERALDS RETURN WITH A HAT TRICK!!

12th January - With both First team and A team games being called off due to the weather United's reserves took centre stage in a thrilling 4th round county cup tie against East Berks outfit Burnham United. United who took an early lead through Karl Lewis looked good for their lead but midway through the second half Burnham rattled the blues with a spirited response that saw the home side turn around the scoreline to 2-1 in their favour. United brought on Greg Murphy for his first game in some months following injury and fortunes quickly changed for Marlow as they in turn equalised and then took a short lived 3-2 ;lead through Murphy. Burnham again fought back to force extra time. Up steeped the 'Gump' to fire home 2 goals before Burnham pulled one back for 5-4. Alan Hale added the coup de grace in the dying moments to send Marlow into the last 16.

PROUD TO BE UNITED!

22nd December - Just 15 months ago United proudly made their debut in the Hellenic League and took the leap up the pyramid to step 6 tonight just 15 months later this little truly amateur football club sit at the top of Division One East albeit with an inferior goal difference and having played a couple of games more than their opponents. Nevertheless Marlow United find themselves proudly leading the pack, which by anybody's standards is a truly remarkable achievement. United are by far and away the poorest and smallest club in the Hellenic League but with heart and mind they have overcome these difficulties and truly represent all that is good in football. No source of revenue, no ground of their own and yet they have leapt from being Reading Football League Champions to a shining example of what can be achieved with dedication and loyalty. Merry Christmas to all of our players, sponsors and the unsung heroes of this football club. Truly the Christmas Number One!

FRIENDLY FIXTURE REQUIRED

25th November - United are looking for a friendly fixture this coming Saturday 1st December. Ideally the match will be held at United's Wilks Park ground. Anyone interested please e-mail marlowunited@aol.com

PROMOTION AMBITIONS THWARTED!

23rd November - United who have steadily and confidently moved slowly up through the league find themselves ground to a halt as they are without a match for the next three Saturdays. This could impact dramatically on United's promotion hopes and they now desperately seek friendly matches to keep the momentum going, although this is not simplistic mid season. A decision has already been made to sign all first team players on to the Reading Football League, something United have been loathe too do out of respect to teams in the Premier Division and Division One and the league itself but Marlow have little choice as it is crucial to the club to keep players match fit. United's General Manager said 'When we joined the Hellenic League we were determined not to forget our roots and the platform that enabled us to reach this level of football. A decision was made that we would never, no matter what the size of the match play First X1 players in our reserve or A team unless it was necessary to bring players back from fitness after injury or such like. But without matches for three whole weeks we may be forced to use our first X1 temporarily in the Premier Division of the Reading Football League, which may or may not be unfair to the rest of the teams in the Premier Division as it could throw a false slant on the division. However we have little choice as it is imperative to keep the first X1 at a level of match fitness. This of course could impact on Division One for obvious reasons.'

UNITED v THAME UNITED.....

3rd November - At first sight seems innocuous enough but just a few years ago Thame were playing Marlow FC and were members of the Southern League with an appearance in the 4th Qualifying Round of the FA Cup as well as a marvellous semi final appearance in the FA Vase..............The blues drew 0-0 today with Thame and Thame could justifiably say the last 20 minutes should have earned them all three points albeit helped by the fact that Marlow were down to 10 men due to the sending off of Mattie Flint, but 'keeper Matt Pollard is there for a reason and the fact that he is probably the best 'keeper in the league is incidental regardless even of yet another save of almost world class proportions, the fact is that Thame are a 'big' club relatively speaking but once again United have demonstrated the right to play in such company.......so on we go

UNITED WITHDRAW FROM COUNTY CUP

1st October - Marlow United have with the agreement of the Berks & Bucks FA withdrawn from the Berks & Bucks FA Intermediate Cup. This is due to United's new found senior status and next season will see the 'flying blues' competing in the Berks & Bucks FA Senior Trophy while its reserve and A teams will fill the slots in the Intermediate and Junior cups respectively. United's General Manager said " Competing in the FA Cup has put our little club on a different platform and to be honest despite being one of the favourites to win this competition it does give us breathing space and with absolute respect to the competition nothing compares with stepping out to play in the FA Cup. Anyone who has appeared in the FA Cup is ineligible for the Intermediate Cup and with the agreement of the Berks & Bucks FA we have withdrawn from the competition amicably."

ONE SMALL STEP...........

23rd September - Marlow United have drawn Wessex League Premier Division outfit Lymington Town in the first round proper of the FA Vase. This may be one small step in football terms but for United it really is a giant leap forward as they could only have dreamed of being among the elite of steps 5/6 of the pyramid system. While as ever United will start the match as underdogs they have a great opportunity to advance even further in this nationally renowned competition. This seasons final will be at Wembley Stadium and though the chances of United getting that far are remote to say the least it is still a massive achievement for the small Thameside club to be in the position to even contemplate it.

MARLOW UNITED YOUTH ACADEMY IS BORN

2nd September - Marlow United Youth began their new 'beginning' on Sunday when the Mayor of Marlow officially opened their new pitch at Hedsor Social Club on Sunday followed by a friendly match with Aylesbury Vale. The whole day was met with sunshine and was a credit to the hard working efforts of the youth team committee and supporters. A link will be set up direct to the youth team web site as soon as its up and running in around 2 weeks. the team who play in the Wycombe & South Bucks Minor League will be looking to carry on the United tradition of success with enjoyment and are keenly looking forward to their opening league match.

FA CUP DREAM DIES BUT ANOTHER CHAPTER BEGINS

19th August - United bravely battled to a 2-1 defeat against an experienced Cove team on Friday evening but took all of the plaudits in front of a crowd approaching 200. The match itself was a truly pulsating sporting event and the scenes at the end of the match as the jubilant Cove players and officials celebrated told all there was to tell. United still establishing themselves as a senior club came of age Friday evening and only a superb goal 3 minutes from time separated the teams. Out of defeat new friends were found in Cove and we wish them good luck in the next round. A lot of new faces came to see the match and we hope they return for other matches this season. As for this early exit from the cup well we can now return next season to give it another go and as one wag said as he walked away from the fray 'Its just as well as they probably wouldn't have won the cup anyway!' One more chance of an appearance at Wembley awaits United in September when they take the field against Buckingham Athletic in the FA Vase on Saturday 22nd September at Wilks Park.

16th August 1977 - Pre-season friendly Risborough Rangers - 4 Marlow United - 4 was the first match ever played by Marlow United and when the players left the field that evening little did they know that just 30 years and one day later the club they represented would be stepping out to play in the most famous cup competition in the world. When United's team led by the Marlow United Youth ball boys take the field this evening they will become officially the smallest club to have taken part in the FA Cup and the only club to have true amateur status. Regardless of the result the appearance of the club, who just two seasons ago were Reading Football League Champions, will remain a remarkable achievement by a club who has no ground, no bar revenue and exists through the sheer hard work of its committees. When the story of this seasons FA Cup is told this football club will have claimed its own paragraph in FA Cup history........................or perhaps a page?????

FA CUP MINNOWS PREPARE FOR GLORY .

13th August Marlow United make a historic debut in the FA Cup this Friday evening (17^th August) at Wilks Park, Flackwell Heath KO 7-30pm when they play Cove FC of the Cherry Red Combined Counties League Premier Division. United will start as clear underdogs in this match but will take some heart from a recent 3-2 pre-season victory over Reading Town who also play in the same division as Cove. When Marlow United won the Reading Football League Championship in 2005 this kick started a remarkable climb by the ‘parks’ team, leaving their riverside Gossmore Lane home to groundshare with Flackwell Heath FC at their Wilks Park ground. Promotion to the Sport Italia Hellenic League at the end of the 2005-06 season and a first ever appearance in the FA Vase and now the FA Cup heralds an incredible three seasons for United and this appearance in the FA Cup is a massive compliment to the officials of this tiny football club, who do not even have the luxury of a bar to generate revenue from. There are a few reasons that makes this game extra special as United are almost certainly the smallest club ever to appear in the competition added to the fact that when wage packets are being given out to players competing in this world famous competition all over the nation United’s players will be charged the usual £5-00 per man subscriptions at the end of the match for the privilege of pulling on the shirt. United are probably the only truly amateur club in the competition. United will have the added honour of kicking off this years competition due to the 7-30 kick off time. If United overcome the odds and beat Cove they will face the current Wessex League Champions Gosport Borough at home in the next round. If they were to overcome this hurdle then a mouth watering ‘local’ derby clash with Ryman League Slough Town awaits them.

02-07-07 - FA CUP HEROES TO MEET COVE ON THE ROAD TO WEMBLEY .

Marlow United's historic debut in the FA Cup will be against Cove on Sunday 19th August at Wilks Park, Flackwell Heath KO 3pm. If Marlow are victorious they will again face a home tie this time against Gosport Borough but most tantalisingly of all if Gosport are overcome then United will take the short trip to Slough Town in the 1st Qualifying Round. Cove play in the Premier Division of the Cherry Red Combined Counties League and Gosport Borough are the current champions of the Sydenhams Wessex League so clearly United start as clear underdogs in both ties. Marlow United are officially the smallest club in the competition.

The FA Vase sees United receive a bye in the 1st Qualifying Round but they will face Buckingham Athletic at home in the 2nd Qualifying Round on Saturday 22nd September. These draws represent a perfect way for United to celebrate their 30th birthday!

26-06-07 - HOLDERS CHELSEA FEAR UNITED CLASH!

Marlow United will create further history in August when they make their debut appearance in the FA Cup...............United will be the smallest club ever to appear in the competition in living memory and it is expected that this fact will attract the media once the draw has been made in July. A home tie at Wilks Park could see BBC's 'the Road to Wembley Begins Here' series visiting. From the fields of Gossmore Lane to an appearance in the FA Cup is a remarkable achievement for this little parks club who have covered much ground in an incredible 3 years. More news and reaction will be published once the draw has been made.

20-05-07 - MARLOW UNITED YOUTH F.C.

Following protracted talks with the officials of one of the towns local nursery teams, agreement has been reached to incorporate a youth section within the club. The team which will play next season at under 13 level has been named Marlow United Youth F.C. United's General Manager said: "Discussions have been ongoing for some time now in an informal and relaxed manner due to the fact that the team manager of the nursery team is a founder member of this football club and he therefore knows exactly what is on offer at this club." He went on to say "The club set up its new 5 year plan at the beginning of last season and creating a Youth team forms a part of this plan and fits nicely with the clubs ambition of winning promotion to the Premier league in year 5 of the plan. In year 5 the players from the youth section will have attained the age of 16-17 and will, we hope, provide a flow of good young footballers ready and able to move into the senior teams. They receive some excellent coaching at present and we look forward to working with this exciting new addition to our football club. "The youth section will operate independently of the senior sides with its own support set up but will have two members co-opted on to the management committee who will represent the interests of the youth section. The youth team will play at Hedsor Social club on a Sunday morning and will continue competing in the Wycombe and South Bucks Minor Football League. United are also nervously awaiting the decision of the Football Association with regard to entry into the FA Cup next season. If United are accepted it will mean another box ticked in their 5 year plan although it will be a year ahead of expectation. United's General Manager said " We are excited about the possibility of appearing in the FA Cup next season which will, if it happens, be a tremendous achievement for the club and again falls in line with our strategy which is based around a slow but sustainable development of the club."