Month: August 2013

by Fungai Motezu

REPORT: YEOVIL TOWN V READING

An extremely harsh penalty from Adam Le Fondre on 76 minutes was enough to give Reading all three points at Huish Park this afternoon.
The spot kick, for a foul by Luke Ayling, was harsh justice for a Glovers side who had been the better side for long periods of the game. The result though leaves Gary Johnson’s men without a win, or a goal, in their first three Championship games.
After Tuesday night’s Capital One Cup heartache against Birmingham, Johnson brought back Andy Williams for Kieffer Moore up front while Joe Ralls replaced Liam Davis in left midfield.
The first twenty minutes, after Reading had looked the brighter, saw Yeovil create the clearer of the chances with Webster heading over, Upson testing former Glovers keeper Alex McCarthy with a thirty yard effort and both Ralls and Hayter shooting wide.
Garath McCleary had Reading’s first chance but fired his left foot shot over the bar with a yard to spare.
McCarthy then saved Jamie McAllister’s free kick and watched Joe Edwards’ dipping volley fly over his bar. Then Shaun Cumming shot over before Hayter then fired over at the other end.
It was good entertainment considering the half was goalless and there was still time for ex Real Madrid attacker Royston Drenthe to set up Danny Williams but the US international sliced his shot wide.
Yeovil came out after the break with a flea in their ear. Andy Williams shot was deflected then saved by McCarthy for a corner then shortly after, Williams cross shot then just missed the far post and Hayter almost reached a McAllister cross from the left.
still the chances came with Reading continually forced back by waves of Yeovil attacks while all the while, relying on Adam Le Fondre to chase down balls up front. Drenthe occasionally looked a threat but the back four seemed to cope well with the danger.
With fifteen minutes remaining, the game turned on a decision from referee Trevor Kettle. Le Fondre cut in along the left byline and seemingly having nowhere to go, went down under no challenge from Luke Ayling whatsoever but the official pointed to the spot, leaving the Yeovil side angry at the decision.
Le Fondre stepped up and blasted the spot kick down the middle to give his side the lead.
Johnson made three attacking subs bringing on Michael N’Goo, Sam Hoskins and Kevin Dawson for Hayter, Ralls and Grant but aside from a foul ON N’Goo in the box that again wasn’t spotted by Mr Kettle, no further scares for a Reading side that shook off the disappontment of Tuesday’s 6-0 League Cup debacle at Peterborough.
For Yeovil, they will look to pick up their next win at Hillsborough against Sheffield Wednesday in two weeks time after the international break.
by Fungai Motezu

Match Report : 31/08/2013

An extremely harsh penalty from Adam Le Fondre on 76 minutes was enough to give Reading all three points at Huish Park this afternoon.
The spot kick, for a foul by Luke Ayling, was harsh justice for a Glovers side who had been the better side for long periods of the game. The result though leaves Gary Johnson’s men without a win, or a goal, in their first three Championship games.
After Tuesday night’s Capital One Cup heartache against Birmingham, Johnson brought back Andy Williams for Kieffer Moore up front while Joe Ralls replaced Liam Davis in left midfield.
The first twenty minutes, after Reading had looked the brighter, saw Yeovil create the clearer of the chances with Webster heading over, Upson testing former Glovers keeper Alex McCarthy with a thirty yard effort and both Ralls and Hayter shooting wide.
Garath McCleary had Reading’s first chance but fired his left foot shot over the bar with a yard to spare.
McCarthy then saved Jamie McAllister’s free kick and watched Joe Edwards’ dipping volley fly over his bar. Then Shaun Cumming shot over before Hayter then fired over at the other end.
It was good entertainment considering the half was goalless and there was still time for ex Real Madrid attacker Royston Drenthe to set up Danny Williams but the US international sliced his shot wide.
Yeovil came out after the break with a flea in their ear. Andy Williams shot was deflected then saved by McCarthy for a corner then shortly after, Williams cross shot then just missed the far post and Hayter almost reached a McAllister cross from the left.
still the chances came with Reading continually forced back by waves of Yeovil attacks while all the while, relying on Adam Le Fondre to chase down balls up front. Drenthe occasionally looked a threat but the back four seemed to cope well with the danger.
With fifteen minutes remaining, the game turned on a decision from referee Trevor Kettle. Le Fondre cut in along the left byline and seemingly having nowhere to go, went down under no challenge from Luke Ayling whatsoever but the official pointed to the spot, leaving the Yeovil side angry at the decision.
Le Fondre stepped up and blasted the spot kick down the middle to give his side the lead.
Johnson made three attacking subs bringing on Michael N’Goo, Sam Hoskins and Kevin Dawson for Hayter, Ralls and Grant but aside from a foul ON N’Goo in the box that again wasn’t spotted by Mr Kettle, no further scares for a Reading side that shook off the disappontment of Tuesday’s 6-0 League Cup debacle at Peterborough.
For Yeovil, they will look to pick up their next win at Hillsborough against Sheffield Wednesday in two weeks time after the international break.
by Fungai Motezu

YOUNG DEPARTS GLOVERS

Yeovil Town can confirm that midfielder Lewis Young has left the club after his short term contract expired.
The club has decided that now is the best time for Lewis to depart in order for him to be able to find a new club as soon as possible.
All at Yeovil Town would like to wish Lewis all the best for the future.
by Fungai Motezu

LEAGUE & YOUTUBE LAUNCH NEW PARTNERSHIP

The Football League and YouTube, the world’s largest online video sharing site, have announced a new official partnership giving supporters access to a whole new world of free online video content. 
The new agreement will see The Football League’s online arm FL Interactive – which includes clubs from across The Football League, Premier League and non-league game – launch Official YouTube Channels for more than 85 clubs, as well as The Football League itself. From launch, they will become football’s largest network of Official Club Channels across the YouTube platform.  
Each season more than 20,000 videos will be launched across these channels, including match highlights and clips from Football League competitions – including the Sky Bet Championship, Sky Bet League 1, Sky Bet League 2, the Capital One Cup and the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.   It will also give supporters behind the scenes access at their club, live programming, match preview and review shows, as well as footage and compilations from The Football League archive. 
Clubs will also be able to use the YouTube platform to showcase content available through their official website and also deliver YouTube content on their website. Their premium subscription service, Player, will continue to be the exclusive destination to listen to match commentaries and to watch extended match highlights and interviews. 
The new channels, which will be available globally, will also feature co-productions with established YouTube partners in the sport, music, entertainment and gaming spheres that will enable clubs to interact with an ever wider audience.  
The Football League’s Chief Commercial Officer, Richard Heaselgrave said: “This is completely new territory for The Football League and fits with our vision of entertaining fans seven days a week, 365 days a year rather than for just ninety minutes every Saturday. 
“To do this we are investing in new resources and platforms to deliver better, more diverse content to fans when and how they want it. 
“This new agreement is a crucial element of that strategy as it gives clubs a truly global platform from which to engage with both new and existing fans through regular, creative and original programming.” 
Stephen Nuttall, Senior Director, YouTube Sports EMEA: “A partnership with The Football League, notably during its 125th Anniversary season, will expand the fast growing range of football content that YouTube’s viewers the world over can enjoy.  The Football League and clubs in its FLi network will provide entertaining, fresh and fun content, including match highlights and news, throughout the week”.
by Fungai Motezu

READING PREVIEW

Match Sponsor – Westbury Packaging
Programme Sponsor – Sondico
Matchball Sponsor – Mayor of Yeovil, Manny Roper

Yeovil Town fans have barely had chance to breath following at quite extraordinary midweek match against Birmingham, but it’s already all eyes back on Huish Park as one of the Championship’s more glamorous clubs pays a visit.
It’s Nigel Adkins’ Reading side who are make their way to Somerset on Saturday and it could be another bumper crowd. 
Reading have sold their allocation and Yeovil fans are snapping up tickets in anticipation of another thrilling game.
There are some still available and it’s advised to purchase in advance wherever possible – contact the ticket office on 01935 847888 for more details and to secure your place.
The media attention around Yeovil over the past 48 hours has been somewhat unprecedented but Gary Johnson will be keen to get back to the football.
Tuesday’s extra time defeat to Birmingham may have seen the Glovers exit the cup but the fans were finally treated to a home goal, three in fact, including one from the most unlikely of sources, Luke Ayling’s left foot!
Reading also went out of the cup in midweek, however they did so in slightly more emphatic style. A 6-0 drubbing at the hands of League One pace setters Peterborough. 
That game saw Adkins ring the changes, could such a negative result prompt him to make even more?
One thing is for sure, Adkins has the ability to name numerous quality players in each position. 
Adam Le Fondre is one of the stars to have tasted the Premier League while Roysten Drenthe once graces the Bernabau for Real Madrid.
One name familiar to Glovers fans will be that of Alex McCarthy. 
Yeovil’s former loan keeper will no doubt get a great reception. 
Midweek changes were the order of the day for Yeovil too, Paddy Madden was rested from the squad altogether and Andy Williams was cup-tied, both could be in line for a return.
Cup antics aside, neither team goes into the game with great league form behind them, both Yeovil and Reading notched up their only wins of the campaign on the opening day.
Both sides are in the bottom half of the table, but of course, it is early days yet. 
The sides have met before in a competitive fixture in 1999. The FA Cup round one fixture so the Royals come out 4-2 winners. Adrian Foster notching one of the Yeovil goals. 
This saturday’s fixture is a clash of those who dropped out of the Premier League with those who joined the division from the other direction and it could be a cracker. 
For those of you who enjoy a bet, Luke Ayling is 33/1 to score first and 12/1 to repeat his wonder strike at any time, what is it they say about London buses? Check out sponsors Sky Bet for all the latest details.
Let’s get Huish Park rocking again…
A foot in both camps.
This is quite a list: Simon Church, Alex McCarthy, Adam Lockwood, Aaron Brown, Abdulai Bell-Baggie, Brian McDermott, Ben Roberts, Scott Murray and most recently, Gozie Ugwu.
Famous Fans.
Chris Tarrant, Leo Sayer, Bill Oddie and Mike Oldfield. Some also claim that Kate Winslet and Ricky Gervais are fans! 
by Fungai Motezu

AWAY TICKETS NOW ON SALE

Tickets for Yeovil Town’s away trips to Sheffield Wednesday (14th Sept) and Ipswich Town (17th Sept) are now on sale from Huish Park.
Prices for the trip to Hillsborough are: Adults – £27.00, Over 65’s – £16.00, Under 18’s – £16.00. Fans can pay on the day, but prices will increase by £1.
For the trip to Portman Road Town fans will be housed in the Cobbold Stand Upper Tier.
Tickets are priced at: Adults – £26, Over 60/NUS Card Holder/Under 20/Disabled – £19, Under 16 – £10.50.
To buy your ticket call 01935 847888 or in person at Huish Park.
by Fungai Motezu

REPORT: YEOVIL TOWN V BIRMINGHAM CITY

Yeovil Town went out of the Capital One Cup to Birmingham City on penalties after the most incredible match ever seen at Huish Park.
The Glovers lost 3-2 on penalties after the game ended 2-2 in normal time and 3-3 after extra time. But the match was marred by a controversial 90th minute Byron Webster equaliser after the Blues thought they would see the ball returned to them after Dan Burn received treatment for an injury.
The goal took the game into extra time and after Luke Ayling had scored his first ever Yeovil goal with a 20 yard screamer, Yeovil manager Gary Johnson then allowed Birmingham to walk in a goal in a move reminiscent of the "ghost goal" he let Plymouth Argyle score in identical circumstances in 2004.
There was no further scoring and in the shootout Sam Hoskins, Ed Upson and Jamie McAllister all missed giving Tom Adeyemi the chance to seal the win by scoring the last spot kick.
It was a sad end for Yeovil who had deserved more than the heartbreak ending they got.Scoring three times against a side such as Birmingham should be enough to win a tie but two poorly defended goals cost Johnson’s men again tonight.
Yeovil boss Gary Johnson gave striker Kieffer Moore his full debut alongside James Hayter up front and both Jamie McAllister and Joel Grant also came into the starting lineup. Michael N’Goo, Alan Tate, Kevin Dawson and Joe Ralls all dropped to the bench.
Way back at 7.45pm at kickoff, there was no sign of the exhilarating drama to follow. The Blues started the better and Matt Green flicked a header just wide. For Yeovil, Grant was causing the Birmingham defence problems with his pace and trickery.
However it was the visitors who took the lead on nineteen minutes. A corner was swung in from the right and Kyle Bartley rose to head home powerfully.
he lead only lasted two minutes though. James Hayter was brought down on the angle of the penalty box and Ed Upson stepped up to curl a sublime finish into the top corner.
Lee Novak, Andrew Shinnie and Bartley all went close before, as on Saturday, Yeovil were undone conceding a shoddy goal just before half time. A ball in from the right got a touch off a defender which seemed to throw everyone except Shinnie who completed a cool finish into the corner.
In the second half Hayter missed a golden opportunity to equalise when he headed straight at keeper Colin Doyle before firing the rebound over the bar. 
The sides exchanged chances with McAllister’s free kick not troubling Doyle and Luke Ayling’s downward header going close for the hosts. Wayne Hennessy, Yeovil’s gloveman, saved with his legs from Green then blocked a Shinnie effort.
Then came the moment that will be talked about for years. Dan Burn, Yeovil’s former loan star, went down injured so keeper Colin Doyle kicked the ball out for treatment.
With the suspicion in the air that it was timewasting, the throwin at the restart fell to Byron Webster who then hit an absolute missile back into the net for the controversial leveller. The incident, to make it 2-2, incensed both the Birmingham players and management with some unsavoury scenes in and around the Yeovil dugout as tempers flared.
After the bedlam had died down, nine minutes of stoppage time went past with the Birmingham players obviously needled and diving into challenges.
Hoskins shot forced a save from Doyle and Upson missed the followup header before Luke Ayling, without a goal in 145 first team games, cut inside onto his left foot and let fly with a thunderbolt that went in off the crossbar; astonishing scenes as the popular full back ran the length of the pitch in celebration.
Then Johnson, mindful of what had happened previously, allowed Lee Novak to walk the ball into the net in a reminder of the Steve Crawford goal from nine years ago this week which saw Plymouth level in that League Cup tie.
Hennessey saved from Chris Burke and Joel Grant headed wide in extra time but Novak spurned the clearest chance to win when he chipped Hennessey but couldn’t direct his shot into the corner of the net.
As the game reached penalties, Sam Hoskins missed the first one for Yeovil with Chris Burke netting for Blues. Dan Seaborne smashed his penalty home off the bar before Neil Eardley blasted his penalty miles over the crossbar.
Ed Upson’s penalty was saved by Doyle followed by Hennessey saving from Scott Allan. Jamie McAllister put his spot kick over the bar too while Darren Ambrose and Kevin Dawson put both their spot kicks down the middle.
It fell to Tom Adeyemi to exorcie his playoff final defeat to Yeovil while at Brentford last season to seal the win and he did so, but only just, his penalty pushed on to the crossbar by Hennessey but going in off the keeper in a cruel late twist.
Late heartache for the Glovers at the end of an extraordinary night of drama at Huish Park.
by Fungai Motezu

Match Report : 27/08/2013

Yeovil Town went out of the Capital One Cup to Birmingham City on penalties after the most incredible match ever seen at Huish Park.
The Glovers lost 3-2 on penalties after the game ended 2-2 in normal time and 3-3 after extra time. But the match was marred by a controversial 90th minute Byron Webster equaliser after the Blues thought they would see the ball returned to them after Dan Burn received treatment for an injury.
The goal took the game into extra time and after Luke Ayling had scored his first ever Yeovil goal with a 20 yard screamer, Yeovil manager Gary Johnson then allowed Birmingham to walk in a goal in a move reminiscent of the "ghost goal" he let Plymouth Argyle score in identical circumstances in 2004.
There was no further scoring and in the shootout Sam Hoskins, Ed Upson and Jamie McAllister all missed giving Tom Adeyemi the chance to seal the win by scoring the last spot kick.
It was a sad end for Yeovil who had deserved more than the heartbreak ending they got.Scoring three times against a side such as Birmingham should be enough to win a tie but two poorly defended goals cost Johnson’s men again tonight.
Yeovil boss Gary Johnson gave striker Kieffer Moore his full debut alongside James Hayter up front and both Jamie McAllister and Joel Grant also came into the starting lineup. Michael N’Goo, Alan Tate, Kevin Dawson and Joe Ralls all dropped to the bench.
Way back at 7.45pm at kickoff, there was no sign of the exhilarating drama to follow. The Blues started the better and Matt Green flicked a header just wide. For Yeovil, Grant was causing the Birmingham defence problems with his pace and trickery.
However it was the visitors who took the lead on nineteen minutes. A corner was swung in from the right and Kyle Bartley rose to head home powerfully.
he lead only lasted two minutes though. James Hayter was brought down on the angle of the penalty box and Ed Upson stepped up to curl a sublime finish into the top corner.
Lee Novak, Andrew Shinnie and Bartley all went close before, as on Saturday, Yeovil were undone conceding a shoddy goal just before half time. A ball in from the right got a touch off a defender which seemed to throw everyone except Shinnie who completed a cool finish into the corner.
In the second half Hayter missed a golden opportunity to equalise when he headed straight at keeper Colin Doyle before firing the rebound over the bar. 
The sides exchanged chances with McAllister’s free kick not troubling Doyle and Luke Ayling’s downward header going close for the hosts. Wayne Hennessy, Yeovil’s gloveman, saved with his legs from Green then blocked a Shinnie effort.
Then came the moment that will be talked about for years. Dan Burn, Yeovil’s former loan star, went down injured so keeper Colin Doyle kicked the ball out for treatment.
With the suspicion in the air that it was timewasting, the throwin at the restart fell to Byron Webster who then hit an absolute missile back into the net for the controversial leveller. The incident, to make it 2-2, incensed both the Birmingham players and management with some unsavoury scenes in and around the Yeovil dugout as tempers flared.
After the bedlam had died down, nine minutes of stoppage time went past with the Birmingham players obviously needled and diving into challenges.
Hoskins shot forced a save from Doyle and Upson missed the followup header before Luke Ayling, without a goal in 145 first team games, cut inside onto his left foot and let fly with a thunderbolt that went in off the crossbar; astonishing scenes as the popular full back ran the length of the pitch in celebration.
Then Johnson, mindful of what had happened previously, allowed Lee Novak to walk the ball into the net in a reminder of the Steve Crawford goal from nine years ago this week which saw Plymouth level in that League Cup tie.
Hennessey saved from Chris Burke and Joel Grant headed wide in extra time but Novak spurned the clearest chance to win when he chipped Hennessey but couldn’t direct his shot into the corner of the net.
As the game reached penalties, Sam Hoskins missed the first one for Yeovil with Chris Burke netting for Blues. Dan Seaborne smashed his penalty home off the bar before Neil Eardley blasted his penalty miles over the crossbar.
Ed Upson’s penalty was saved by Doyle followed by Hennessey saving from Scott Allan. Jamie McAllister put his spot kick over the bar too while Darren Ambrose and Kevin Dawson put both their spot kicks down the middle.
It fell to Tom Adeyemi to exorcie his playoff final defeat to Yeovil while at Brentford last season to seal the win and he did so, but only just, his penalty pushed on to the crossbar by Hennessey but going in off the keeper in a cruel late twist.
Late heartache for the Glovers at the end of an extraordinary night of drama at Huish Park.
by Fungai Motezu

TROPHY TOUR LATEST DATES

More dates and venues have been announced for the County wide tour the club have embarked on with the NPower League One Play-Off Final Trophy.

Tomorrow Wednesday 28th. August the Trophy will be at Sainsbury’s store in Bridgwater at around 10.30am followed by a visit to Minehead in the afternoon where they will be situated by the Old Hospital.
Thursday 29th. August the Trophy will be in Taunton Sainsbury’s around 10.30am
Friday 30th. August in Seaton from 12 Noon.
Monday 2nd. September Asda Yeovil around 10.30am
 
Wednesday 4th. September Sainsbury’s in Sherborne around 10.30 am and in Somerton Market Square from 2.00 pm
The Tour will draw to a close at Cheddar Gorge on Thursday 5th. September at 11.00am.
by Fungai Motezu

MARQUEE-HOME FANS ONLY

We would supporters coming to Huish Park for tonight’s Capital One Cup please note that only home fans will be admitted.

We apologise for any inconvenience this causes but is being implemented on Police advice.
by Fungai Motezu

BIRMINGHAM CITY PREVIEW

Programme Sponsor – Clive Watts Joinery
Match Ball Sponsor – Yeovil Court Hotel

Glovers fans could be forgiven for suffering from a case of de-ja-vu this week as the Capital One Cup Second Round pits Yeovil town against Birmingham City on Tuesday night.
The Blues were only in Somerset at the start of the month for a league fixture and now they’re back in town with silverware on their minds.
This competition means a lot to the visitors as they won this trophy back in 2011, a dramatic 2-1 win over Arsenal the crowning moment of a disappointing season.
It was a last gasp Obafemi Martins goal that sealed the victory at Wembley, but they were relegated out of the Premier League later that season.
This season, both sides have defeated League Two sides to progress into Round Two, the Glovers went to Southend and won 1-0 thanks to Kevin Dawson’s first of the season, however Birmingham needed extra time against Plymouth Argyle to squeeze through 3-2.
For that game Lee Clarke had made some changes to his squad, including in goal, Darren Randolph was replaced by Colin Doyle.
Similar switches in personnel might be on the cards again. 
The two teams go into the game with similar fortunes in terms of league form; both only have one win to their name, both lost their last two fixtures and they are only separated on goal difference from each other at the wrong end of the table.
Clarke’s men sit in 18th, Yeovil one place below in 19th.
In their last fixture, Birmingham were leading 1-0 with 80 minutes on the clock and looking set for their second win of the season, but Leicester City managed to notch three goals in ten minutes to get the points. Not even a last gasp Chris Burke goal could help as Birmingham succumbed to a 3-2 defeat.
For Yeovil, it was a bad day at the office on Saturday, a 3-0 loss to Derby County and another 90 minutes without a goal for the home fans to cheer.
Yeovil’s issue has been scoring goals, not for the lack of trying though.
This week they strengthened their attacking options by securing the return of Andy Williams from Swindon on a season long loan. 
Williams will be no good to the home side this Tuesday, however, as he is cup-tied. He scored the winner for his parent club in their first round game against Torquay.
Yeovil might have been sweating on a cup-tied ‘keeper too, Wayne Hennessey is on loan from Wolves. He was only an unused sub in their first round defeat to Morecambe, so after a quick flick through the rule book, he should be available to continue in goal, with Wolves’ permission.
This will be the first time Yeovil have been able to name the same Goalkeeper for two games running since the last meeting of these sides. 
If we’ve got our rules wrong or if Wolves put a restriction on the Welsh stopper playing, Chris Dunn is waiting in the wings to make his debut.
In the last preview we covered the previous meetings of these two clubs; a couple of friendly fixtures were all that we could speak of, a 1-1 draw in 1997 and a 0-0 in 1986.
Of course, we can now add the league fixture from earlier this campaign to that list. A 1-0 win for the visitors, some claim Dan Burn was the goal scorer against his old team mates, but video evidence clearly shows it as a Danny Seaborne own goal.
It was that game that Marek Stech broke his hand and in Saturday’s edition of the match-day programme, ‘keeper coach Gareth Stewart said that: “We are hoping to get him out on the training ground with us as soon as possible”.
Following Saturday’s defeat to Derby, Gary Johnson issued a rally cry to Yeovil supporters: “We want to give them [the fans] something… we still want them coming, we still need them, they’re still supporting, they still appreciate the good play.”
So, if you want to get behind Gary, Terry and Darren’s green and white army you can this Tuesday night
.
Tickets are available, £15 for adults, £10 concessions and £5 juniors. Call 01935 847888 for more details. 
Famous Fans.
Mike Skinner (Singer, The Streets), Jasper Carrott (Comedian) and Snoop Dogg was pictured in a Birmingham City shirt in 2011!
A foot in both camps.
Andros Townsend has spent time on loan with both sides, Howard Forinton, Darren Purse, Jerry Gill as well as a certain Dan Burn.
by Fungai Motezu

PADDY GETS IRISH CALL UP

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has again included Yeovil Town striker Paddy Madden in his 29 man provisional squad for the World Cup qualifying matches against Sweden and Austria.
Ireland  face Sweden in Dublin on Friday 6th September, and then travel to Vienna to play Austria on Tuesday 10th September but Paddy will not miss any Yeovil matches as the club will get an International Break as they are now in the Sky Bet Championship.
The full squad is : 

Republic of Ireland: Forde, Westwood, Randolph, O’Shea, O’Brien, St Ledger, Wilson, Coleman, Kelly, O’Dea, Clark, Dunne, McShane, Whelan,McCarthy,Green, Hendrick, McGeady, Pilkington, McClean, Brady, Meyler, Hoolahan, Long, Keane, Sammon, Walters, Madden, Cox. 

by Fungai Motezu

BILLY GOES BACK TO CHELSEA

Yeovil Town manager Gary Johnson has announced that Billy Clifford has returned to Chelsea.

"I’d like to thank Billy fo his time with us at Yeovil and wish him all the best for the rest of his career." said The Gaffer
by Fungai Motezu

REPORT: YEOVIL TOWN v DERBY COUNTY

Yeovil Town went down to their third successive Skybet Championship defeat as they went down by three goals to nil at home to Derby County this afternoon.
Goals from Johnny Russell and Craig Bryson in the last four minutes of the first half gave the Rams a 2-0 half time lead and they added a third through top scorer Chris Martin before the hour. A much improved scond half performance from Gary Johnson’s men though after a half time reshuffle that saw the manager make two changes
The Glovers were denied a clear cut penalty halfway through the second period that might have seen them grab a lifeline when returning loanee Andy Williams was dragged down in the box but ref Keith Hill waved away the spot kick appeals.
Yeovil went into the game playing a 4-5-1 formation with Michael N’Goo the lone striker up top supported by five men in the middle. This meant that strike pairing James Hayter and Paddy Madden both had to be satisfied with a place on the bench.
Will Hughes had been the talk of the Championship in recent weeks and the bright-haired midfield general, rumoured to be interesting Premier League giants Liverpool, went close on three minutes with a rasping shot that went just wide of debutant keeper Wayne Hennessey’s post
But his opposite number, Lee Grant was also called into action early when he saved from Joe Ralls low shot.
After a shaky start, Yeovil gradually found themselves with more of the possession but saw attempts from Jeff Hendrick and Hughes again miss the target.
Just as the storm appeared to have been weathered, the Rams hit Yeovil with a double whammy with two goals in three minutes approaching half time.
Ex Bristol City defender Richard Keogh broke through and set up Hughes; he in turn played in Johnny Russell to curl one in to the far corner of Hennessey’s goal.
And Russell then combined well with Craig Bryson to set him up for the second goal on 44 minutes.
It could have been worse as Hennessey dived full length to deny Jamie Ward in first half stoppage time.
Johnson sent on Paddy Madden and Andy Williams at half time to replace N’Goo and Alan Tate and reverted to a more traditional 4-4-2 but it was Derby who sealed the game with a third goal just before the hour. Ward’s fierce shot was parried by Hennessey but fell kindly for Chris Martin who volleyed home his third goal in four games.
Ward nearly made it four on the hour mark but Yeovil stepped up a gear prompted by a more influential Liam Davis on the left flank. He saw one shot saved by Grant after creating space for himself just outside the box.
Andy Williams headed at Grant before he then was brought down in the box for what appeared to be a stonewall penalty but the official saw nothing wrong with the challenge.
This seemed to spark Yeovil somehow and after four successive corners threatened to break the Rams defence, Williams headed over the bar from a right wing cross.
In the closing moments, third sub Joel Grant was denied by a Rams block after some brilliant trickery down the left had fashioned a chance.
The Glovers now have a Capital One Cup tie at Huish Park to focus on, this Tuesday night at 7.45pm at Huish Park.
by Fungai Motezu

Match Report : 24/08/2013

Yeovil Town went down to their third successive Skybet Championship defeat as they went down by three goals to nil at home to Derby County this afternoon.
Goals from Johnny Russell and Craig Bryson in the last four minutes of the first half gave the Rams a 2-0 half time lead and they added a third through top scorer Chris Martin before the hour. A much improved scond half performance from Gary Johnson’s men though after a half time reshuffle that saw the manager make two changes
The Glovers were denied a clear cut penalty halfway through the second period that might have seen them grab a lifeline when returning loanee Andy Williams was dragged down in the box but ref Keith Hill waved away the spot kick appeals.
Yeovil went into the game playing a 4-5-1 formation with Michael N’Goo the lone striker up top supported by five men in the middle. This meant that strike pairing James Hayter and Paddy Madden both had to be satisfied with a place on the bench.
Will Hughes had been the talk of the Championship in recent weeks and the bright-haired midfield general, rumoured to be interesting Premier League giants Liverpool, went close on three minutes with a rasping shot that went just wide of debutant keeper Wayne Hennessey’s post
But his opposite number, Lee Grant was also called into action early when he saved from Joe Ralls low shot.
After a shaky start, Yeovil gradually found themselves with more of the possession but saw attempts from Jeff Hendrick and Hughes again miss the target.
Just as the storm appeared to have been weathered, the Rams hit Yeovil with a double whammy with two goals in three minutes approaching half time.
Ex Bristol City defender Richard Keogh broke through and set up Hughes; he in turn played in Johnny Russell to curl one in to the far corner of Hennessey’s goal.
And Russell then combined well with Craig Bryson to set him up for the second goal on 44 minutes.
It could have been worse as Hennessey dived full length to deny Jamie Ward in first half stoppage time.
Johnson sent on Paddy Madden and Andy Williams at half time to replace N’Goo and Alan Tate and reverted to a more traditional 4-4-2 but it was Derby who sealed the game with a third goal just before the hour. Ward’s fierce shot was parried by Hennessey but fell kindly for Chris Martin who volleyed home his third goal in four games.
Ward nearly made it four on the hour mark but Yeovil stepped up a gear prompted by a more influential Liam Davis on the left flank. He saw one shot saved by Grant after creating space for himself just outside the box.
Andy Williams headed at Grant before he then was brought down in the box for what appeared to be a stonewall penalty but the official saw nothing wrong with the challenge.
This seemed to spark Yeovil somehow and after four successive corners threatened to break the Rams defence, Williams headed over the bar from a right wing cross.
In the closing moments, third sub Joel Grant was denied by a Rams block after some brilliant trickery down the left had fashioned a chance.
The Glovers now have a Capital One Cup tie at Huish Park to focus on, this Tuesday night at 7.45pm at Huish Park.
by Fungai Motezu

GARY’S DELIGHT ON SIGNING

Gary Johnson has been speaking of his delight at having the opportunity to bring striker Andy Williams back to the club on loan from Swindon.

Speaking to YTFC.net Gary said: "I am absolutely thrilled to get a striker of Andy’s ability back to the club for our first year in the Sky Bet Championship. Andy can score goals and has proved that during his stay here at Yeovil Town and at Swindon. We haven’t been scoring goals yet and I am sure that Andy will help in that department.
"I shall be very disappointed if there are any supporters that are still unhappy about Andy leaving the club last year. We are celebrating our achievement of promotion to this division with every game and each game should be just that, a celebration.
"So let’s get behind the team and secure our next three points against Derby tomorrow afternoon." 
by Fungai Motezu

TICKET OFFICE NEWS

The Yeovil Town Ticket Office will be open on Bank Holiday Monday from 9.00 am to 12 Noon.

Please note that all Capital One Cup "two for one" tickets are all sold. Other can tickets can be purchased on the day right up to kick off.
by Fungai Motezu

THE GAFFER’S ON SKY AGAIN!

The Gaffer, Gary Johnson will be enhancing his growing TV reputation with an appearance tonight on Sky’s Weekend Warm Up show on Sky Sports News from 6.00 pm.

Gary will also be the studio guest for the Championship match between Watford and Nottingham Forest on Sunday and later in September the Gaffer will be seen on Soccer AM with some lunatic called Frankie!
by Fungai Motezu

ANDY WILLIAMS RETURNS

Yeovil Town are delighted to confirm that Andy Williams has re-joined the club on a one-year loan deal.

 

Striker Andy joins from League One side Swindon Town after leaving Yeovil to join the Robins in 2012.

 

Andy started his career at home-town club Hereford United before joining Bristol Rovers in 2007.

 

He signed for the Glovers in 2010 and made 72 appearances scoring 22 goals for the green and whites.

 

Speaking this morning Yeovil manager Gary Johnson said: “After reaching agreement between both clubs I expressed a big interest in getting Andy Williams back to Yeovil.

 

“I am delighted everything has come together and we welcome back with open arms  Andy  back to Yeovil.

 

“ We have some very good strikers already at the club but we all know in the Championship you can’t have enough goal scorers.

 

“Our strikers also have the ability to mix n match and perform together.

 

“I’m sure the odd one or two fans may have felt aggrieved that Andy left to join Swindon but he felt it was the right move for him at the time.

 

“We understood his decision and these sort of decisions often happen in football, but we are delighted he is back with us at Huish Park.

 

“The minute we were allowed to speak with Andy he showed us great desire and keenness to back playing for Yeovil.”

Andy will link up with his new team-mates in time for tomorrow’s squad to face Derby County.

 

by Fungai Motezu

NEW AWAY SHIRT NOW ON SALE

The club has now taken delivery of their new away shirt.
The new shirt is the same design as the home shirt but with the well known fluorescent yellow and black hoops on the front with the back being plain black with gold piping.
All sizes apart from small youths and large youths are available now in the club store now.
by Fungai Motezu

DERBY COUNTY PREVIEW

Match Sponsor – A.J. WAKELY & SONS
Programme Sponsor – E.R GARRETT CLEANING CONTRACTORS

Another weekend is nearly upon us and so another chapter of Yeovil Town’s Championship story is set to unfold with the visit of Derby County to Huish Park.
Derby are the fourth league opponent the Glovers have faced at this level and the third of them to have once graced the Premier League.
County’s history is pretty much as decorated as any other in the division; founder members of the football league in 1888, FA Cup winners in 1946 as well as three titles of England’s top tier.
The Rams also have their own trophy, the Brian Clough trophy played awarded to the winning side each time they play fierce rivals Nottingham Forest. 
But enough about them, what about Yeovil?
Yeovil have yet another goalkeeper – I can’t find any examples of a side that have played four ‘keepers in four games before – Wayne Hennessey has finally arranged his loan deal following an injury scare. 
The Welsh stopper comes in as replacement for Sam Johnstone who was the emergency cover for Marek Stech. 
Johnstone’s debut for the Glovers last weekend may turn out to be his only appearance for the club, he damaged a finger in the warm up of the 2-0 defeat against Burnley and has returned to Manchester United.
With Goalkeepers coming and going, Gary Johnson has moved to secure some cover in the form of ex-Coventry goalkeeper Chris Dunn – he’ll be the man to step in if the curse of Glovers’ Glove-men should strike again.
The other man who could make his home debut is Joe Ralls who has joined from Cardiff, he got a few minutes last week and could be set for a more prominent role.
Yeovil are trying to turn around a mini blip in form, decent performances against Birmingham and Burnley have not returned any points and it’s hoped a return to Huish Park will help change fortunes.
Some of the fringe players got another chance to impress in a friendly against Exeter in midweek, more goals for Kieffer Moore and Michael Ngoo staked their claim for a position. The Glovers ran out 3-2 victors.
The Rams are also going into this game on the back of a league defeat, a 1-0 reverse against rivals Leicester City have followed a couple of wins and a draw so far this season.
It has left them 12th in the table on four points six places above Yeovil.
The other win was in the Capital One cup, Gary Johnson will have had no trouble asking for some hints and tips as it was against his son’s Oldham side.
The Glovers will be wary of striker Chris Martin who already has a couple of league goals to his name as well as England Under 21’s star Will Hughes – who is being linked with many Premier League sides in the national press.
Paddy Madden will know two of the visiting squad, Jeff Hendrick and Connor Sammon, from his recent call up to the international scene with the Republic of Ireland.
Time to dust off the history books and much like the Burnley game, Yeovil and Derby have never met competitively, but there is one recent friendly in 2009, when a Steve Davis double saw off a Glovers side including Alex McCarthy and Steven Caulker. Sam Williams missed a penalty.
Away fans are once again close to selling out their end for Saturday and the home side are hoping for a good turn out to match it, tickets are still available – the ticket office can be contacted on (01935) 847888.
A foot in both camps – who have played for both clubs?
Lee Johnson, Lee Morris, Alex Prijovic, Michael McIndoe, David Webb.
Famous Fans – who will you bump into in line for a hotdog?
Naill from One Direction, Team GB swimmers Ross Davenport and Rebecca Adlington, Actor Robert Lindsay and Blur’s Graham Coxon and MP Geoff Hoon.
by Fungai Motezu

EDWARDS SIGNS CONTRACT EXTENSION

Yeovil Town are pleased to announce that Joe Edwards has signed a contract extension until summer 2015.
Joe joined the Glovers from Bristol City in January after two previous loan spells with the club.
On the new deal Joe said: “I am over the moon to sign the extension. I am really enjoying my football and looking forward to playing more in the Championship.
“I would like to thank the gaffer for giving me the opportunity to prove I can play at this level.”
by Fungai Motezu

HENNESSEY JOINS – TAKE TWO!

Yeovil Town Football Club can confirm that Wolves goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey has now joined the club on loan.
The Welshman, who has 38 caps for his country was due to join the club last week but the loan was put on hold due to an injury scare.
Wayne underwent tests last week and the injury has cleared making him available to join the Glovers on an initial one-month loan.
by Fungai Motezu

MORE TROPHY TOUR DATES ADDED

Yeovil Town are pleased to confirm that the Trophy Tour will continue into September.
Below are the dates and where you can get your photo taken with the trophy.
Wednesday 21st August 
10.30am – Clarks Village
2pm – Tesco, Glastonbury
Thursday 22nd August
Bath Racecourse – first race at 2.20pm – (Ticket required to access racecourse)
Friday 23rd August
10.30am – Tesco, Ilminster
12 noon – Waitrose, Crewkerne
2pm – Tesco, Chard
Tuesday 27th August
10.30am – Tesco, Langport
Wednesday 28th August
10.30am – Sainsburys, Bridgwater
2pm – Old Hospital, Minehead
Friday 30th August
12 noon – Seaton, TBC
Wednesday 4th September
10.30am – Sainsburys, Sherborne
2pm – Somerton Town Centre
Thursday 5th September
11am – Cheddar Gorge
by Fungai Motezu

FANS CHARITY FEATURE NUMBER 1

As part of a new feature on ytfc.net, the club will profile a fan doing their piece for charity.
Today we feature Chris Medland who will be tackling the toughest Tour de France climbs in the Pyrenees Mountains next month for charity.
 
Chris, a former season ticket holder and YTFC Supporters Club player who now works as a Formula One journalist for sports broadcaster ESPN in London, is riding over 425 miles through the Pyrenees to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. Chris is taking on the challenge for his mother Jace, from Horton near Ilminster, who is currently fighting cancer for a third time, and in memory of Sandra Jeffries who passed away following her battle in March 2011.
 
“I was originally going to do the London to Paris ride,” Chris said. “But a change in the Formula One calendar made that impossible, so I went for the even harder ride! If you’re going to ask people to sponsor you, it should be for something really impressive shouldn’t it?
 
“Macmillan does great work supporting cancer sufferers and their families, and while I was powerless to do anything the first two times my mum was diagnosed, I felt this time round I could make some sort of contribution.
 
“The training is going OK but there’s only so much you can do in England to prepare for climbs over 2000m. I’ve had a bit of a break from it to be at the opening few games of the season but now I’ve got a training ride lined up through the Alps from Zurich to Milan ahead of the Italian Grand Prix. I often train in my Yeovil shirt so the Green and White will be seen at Monza next month!”
 
As long as he raises the minimum amount required, Chris will be completing the ride from September 15-20. There have been and will continue to be a number of fundraising initiatives in and around Horton, while Chris also has a number of signed items donated by Formula One teams – including Jenson Button’s McLaren team – still to auction off online via his Just Giving page at www.JustGiving.com/ChrisMedland.
If you would like to feature then please email jhealey@ytfc.net
by Fungai Motezu

LADIES TO TAKE ON CHELSEA

This weekend Yeovil Town Ladies take on Chelsea Ladies.
The Ladies team take on the London outfit on Sunday (25th August) at Alvington with a 1pm kick off.
Entry will be £1. So come along and cheer the ladies on.
Follow Yeovil Town Ladies on Twitter.
by Fungai Motezu

GLOVERS BEAT GRECIANS IN FRIENDLY

This afternoon a Yeovil Town XI beat a Exeter City XI 3-2 at the Alvington Training round.
Yeovil took the lead mid-way through the first half when a cross from the left wing was headed in by Kieffer Moore.
Moore was again on target when he dribbled his way past three defenders to slot the ball home from just inside the area.
Moment later Michael Ngoo  made it 3-0 when he raced onto a through ball to calmly place the ball past the advancing keeper.
The visitors pulled a goal back after 75 minutes when Goslings cross/shot nestled right in the top corner.
Minutes later Jimmy Keohane scored Exeter’s second with a free kick from 25 yards.
by Fungai Motezu

TROPHY TOUR CONTINUES

The Yeovil Town Play-Off Trophy tour continues this week for fans to have their photos with the trophy.
Tomorrow morning from 10.30am the trophy will be in Bridport Town Centre (Bucky Doo Square). After lunch (2.30pm) the trophy will head down the coast to Lyme Regis (The Cobb area) for a ice cream and fish and chips!
On Wednesday the silverware heads to Clarks Village in Street (10.30am) for shoppers to get their photos with the cup.
From 1.30pm (isn) on Wednesday fans in the Glastonbury area will be able to see and have photos at Tesco in the town.
Thursday sees the trophy head to Bath Racecourse for their Family Fun Day meet. Racing begins at 2.20pm but you will need a ticket to enter the racecourse. Tickets are available here.
by Fungai Motezu

REPORT: BURNLEY v YEOVIL TOWN

.Town suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Burnley at Turf Moor

Two second half goals in the space of five minutes was enough to earn the home side all three points.

Gary Johnson named new loan signing Sam Johnstone in goal with fellow loan signings Chris Dunn and Joe Ralls named on the bench.

 

Johnstone was called in to action after seven minutes when he dived to his left to deny a Wallace long-range shot.

 

The hosts nearly broke the deadlock on 20 minutes. Sam Vokes beat the offside trap and saw Johnstone racing off his line, but his curling effort went narrowly wide of the upright.

 

Town’s first real chance of the first half fell to winger Davis after 35 minutes. Great build up on the right involving Ayling, Edwards and Dawson saw the Irish Dawson fizz a cross along the six-yard box. Davis found himself unmarked at the back post, but his right-footed effort from close range went over the bar with Heaton beaten.

 

The second half started with Yeovil on the front foot with Ed Upson firing wide after five minutes of the second period. Just moment later hard-work by Dawson on the right-wing resulted in him crossing into the area. The on-rushing Davis met Dawson’s cross, but his header fell to safety.

 

After the hour mark Yeovil made the first changes of the game with Tate and Hayter being replaced by Hoskins and Ngoo. Davis moved to left-back with Hoskins setting up on the left-wing.

 

A well worked free-kick moments later resulted Seaborne heading a Davis cross just wide of the upright.

 

The hosts took the lead after 72 minutes when after a corner was cleared the ball found its way to substitute Keith Treacy on the left-wing. The winger’s cross come shot found its way into the Yeovil net off the bar and the hand of Johnstone.

 

Just seconds later Burnley could have doubled their lead when Arfield was put clean through, but his angle was reduced by Johnstone and his shot went wide.

 

The home didn’t have to wait long to double their lead though. A free-kick on the right bounced around the Yeovil area after cannoning off the post. The loose ball fell to Arfield, whose shot hit the head of Vokes and into the net.

 

Johnstone was called into action with ten minutes to play when he did well to deny a glancing Vokes header.

In the dying minutes Luke Ayling kept the score at 2-0 when he blocked a certain goal.

With the fourth official signalling four minutes of added time substitute Ngoo found himself in space but his powerful shot was palmed away by Heaton.

by Fungai Motezu

Match Report : 17/08/2013

.Town suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Burnley at Turf Moor

Two second half goals in the space of five minutes was enough to earn the home side all three points.

Gary Johnson named new loan signing Sam Johnstone in goal with fellow loan signings Chris Dunn and Joe Ralls named on the bench.

 

Johnstone was called in to action after seven minutes when he dived to his left to deny a Wallace long-range shot.

 

The hosts nearly broke the deadlock on 20 minutes. Sam Vokes beat the offside trap and saw Johnstone racing off his line, but his curling effort went narrowly wide of the upright.

 

Town’s first real chance of the first half fell to winger Davis after 35 minutes. Great build up on the right involving Ayling, Edwards and Dawson saw the Irish Dawson fizz a cross along the six-yard box. Davis found himself unmarked at the back post, but his right-footed effort from close range went over the bar with Heaton beaten.

 

The second half started with Yeovil on the front foot with Ed Upson firing wide after five minutes of the second period. Just moment later hard-work by Dawson on the right-wing resulted in him crossing into the area. The on-rushing Davis met Dawson’s cross, but his header fell to safety.

 

After the hour mark Yeovil made the first changes of the game with Tate and Hayter being replaced by Hoskins and Ngoo. Davis moved to left-back with Hoskins setting up on the left-wing.

 

A well worked free-kick moments later resulted Seaborne heading a Davis cross just wide of the upright.

 

The hosts took the lead after 72 minutes when after a corner was cleared the ball found its way to substitute Keith Treacy on the left-wing. The winger’s cross come shot found its way into the Yeovil net off the bar and the hand of Johnstone.

 

Just seconds later Burnley could have doubled their lead when Arfield was put clean through, but his angle was reduced by Johnstone and his shot went wide.

 

The home didn’t have to wait long to double their lead though. A free-kick on the right bounced around the Yeovil area after cannoning off the post. The loose ball fell to Arfield, whose shot hit the head of Vokes and into the net.

 

Johnstone was called into action with ten minutes to play when he did well to deny a glancing Vokes header.

In the dying minutes Luke Ayling kept the score at 2-0 when he blocked a certain goal.

With the fourth official signalling four minutes of added time substitute Ngoo found himself in space but his powerful shot was palmed away by Heaton.

by Fungai Motezu

JOHNSTONE JOINS FOR THREE MONTHS

Yeovil Town are pleased to announce the loan signing of goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.
The Preston born keeper joins from Premier League side Manchester United on a three-month deal.
Sam has represented England at all youth levels from under 16’s through to under 20’s where he was named in Peter Taylor’s 21-man squad for the under 20’s World Cup in Turkey.
In 2011 Sam spent time on loan Scunthorpe United making 12 appearances for The Iron and last season he made seven apperances whilst on loan at Walsall in League One.
by Fungai Motezu

IT’S A DUNN DEAL

Gary Johnson has boosted his goalkeeping options with the signature of free agent Chris Dunn on a one-year deal.
Dunn started his career at Northampton Town where he graduated through the centre of excellence before signing a professional contract with the Cobblers in 2006. 
In 2011 Chris joined Coventry City for an undisclosed fee before leaving the club in August.
by Fungai Motezu

BURNLEY PREVIEW

Yeovil Town are on the road in Sky Bet Championship action this Saturday, it’s another long trip into the north as the Glovers head for Burnley.
The Lancashire side sit fourth in the table and while the standings might not mean an awful lot after two games, their four points from two games place them 10 positions above Yeovil.
As well as 1-1 draw against local rival Bolton and a 2-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday the Clarets have a 4-0 rout of York City in the bag in the first round of the Capital One Cup.
Yeovil will be looking to bounce back from defeat last Saturday as well as integrating a new ‘keeper.
Marek Stech looks set for a spell on the side lines after breaking his hand against Birmingham.
Gary Johnson was quick into the loan market securing Welsh international Wayne Hennessey on an initial one month loan.
However, an injury sustained whilst on international duty has put the deal on hold. The Glovers are without a recognised glove man as Gary Johnson searches for other options at short notice. 
It was better news for the latest Glovers player with a full cap, Paddy Madden. 
Madden was a 67th minute sub for the Republic of Ireland, against Wales on Wednesday.
Elsewhere, new loan midfielder Joe Ralls could be included after his switch from Cardiff was made yesterday.
Burnley also had a representative in that fixture, Sam Vokes. Vokes scored the winner for Burnley against Sheffield Wednesday last week.
On the injury front, Jamie McCallister has aggravated his knee problem during a friendly in midweek and could be touch and go.
During the 2-0 win for a Yeovil XI against Plymouth, Kieffer Moore staked his claim for first team action with one of the goals.
It’s about now I’d tell how we got on when we last met, but unless my eyes deceive me, the sides are yet to cross paths competitively.
It’s a mere 262 miles from Huish Park to Burnley, but Yeovil are certainly accustomed to long journeys.
The eight hour round trip would be made much sweeter if we could bring back three points, a goal or two for our new international and a clean sheet for our emergency goalkeeper.
A foot in both camps – Who have played for both teams?
Dean Bowditch, Wes Fletcher, Gerry Gow, Gifton Noel Williams, Cameron Stewart,
Famous Fans – who will you bump into getting a hotdog?
Jimmy Anderson, HRH Prince Charles, Alistair Campbell and the actor behind Chesney Brown in Coronation Street… however the Character “Will” from the Inbetweeners was quoted in the movie as saying “I always say I like football, but not Burnley”, he’ll be with us in the away end, then.
by Fungai Motezu

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOHN!

The club would like to wish club employee John Jewers a very happy 75th birthday.

John, who has been working for the club for over 25 years is a well known figure around Huish Park on match days with his shouts of ‘Golden Gamble’.
Happy birthday John.
by Fungai Motezu

RALLS SIGNS ON LOAN

Yeovil Town are pleased to announce the loan signing of 19-year-old Joe Ralls.
Joe joins The Glovers on a six month loan deal, subject to international clearance.
After having made appearances for Cardiff City in the earlier rounds of the Carling Cup in 2011, the Aldershot-born midfielder made his League debut as a substitute against Hull City at KC Stadium, scoring a sublime left-footed half volley from thirty yards out. 
He went on to make fourteen first-team appearances as well as securing his first call-up to the England under-19 squad. 
by Fungai Motezu

KEEPER LOAN PUT ON HOLD

Gary Johnson today revealed that the loan deal with keeper Wayne Hennessey has been put on hold.

The Wolves shot stopper picked up a slight injury whilst warming up when on international duty for Wales.
by Fungai Motezu

PADDY MAKES INTERNATIONAL DEBUT

Paddy Madden tonight made his debut for Republic of Ireland against Wales in Cardiff.
The Dublin born striker was called up by manager Giovanni Trapattoni on Saturday.
Paddy made his bow when he came on in the 69th minute to replace Wes Hoolahan. He almost opened his goalscoring account but saw his strong left-footed strike was palmed away by Wales keeper Boaz Myhill.
Everyone associated with Yeovil Town would like to congratulate Paddy on his debut.
by Fungai Motezu

BYRON’S BABY DELIGHT

Everyone at Yeovil Town Football Club would like to congratulate Byron Webster and his partner Katie on the birth of their son Henri Maxwell.
Henri arrived at 3.41am on 12th August and weighed in at 7lb 5oz and is a welcome brother to Amelie.
Well done and congratulations to everyone.
by Fungai Motezu

TROPHY SET FOR TOUR!

The Yeovil Town trophy tour kicks off tomorrow when the League One Play Off Trophy and the Yeovil Town Ladies promotion team will be at The County Ground, Taunton.
The trophy will be at the cricket ground from 12pm where fans will be able to have their photo taken with silverware.
Somerset play the Yorkshire Vikings in the Yorkshire Bank 40 over match, which starts at 13.45. Tickets for the game can be purchased here.
by Fungai Motezu

STATEMENT REGARDING MARQUEE

Following feedback from fans after Saturday’s game Catering and Hospitality director Andy Rossiter has released the following statement.
We are pleased to report that we had solid sales in the Conferencing and Catering department. For this we thank all our supporters who attended our match versus Birmingham City.
The club are fully aware from feedback from fans that we did not achieve this without some operational problems. To this end we found ourselves short of bar staff in the marquee and other areas. 
We are happy to report we have today employed extra bar staff to join the staff in our marquee and we have plans to employ more for our other bars. 
We know we need to accommodate the away fans and plans are being discussed how to do this, its hoped to report some news shortly.
If you would like to offer us your feedback then please email crobinson@ytfc.net.
I thank you all for your continued support. 
Andy Rossiter
by Fungai Motezu

GLOVERS DEFEAT PILGRIMS IN FRIENDLY

Yeovil Town this afternoon beat a Plymouth Argyle XI 2-0 at Huish Park.
Town took the lead when trialist Conor Henderson curled a free-kick past Luke McCormick in the Plymouth goal into the top corner from 25-yards.
Kieffer Moore doubled the advantage just before the hour mark when he found himself unmarked inside the area and directed his header powerfully past McCormick.
Yeovil Town starting XI: Stewart; Young, Nana, Jones, McAllister, Grant, Clifford, Henderson, Hoskins, Ngoo, Moore
Plymouth Argyle starting XI: McCormick; Vassell, Richards, Branston, Purrington; Gurrieri, Parrett, Young, Allen, Lane; Harvey.
by Fungai Motezu

BIRMINGHAM TICKET INFORMATION

Get an extra ticket to bring your mate to the match vs. Birmingham City on Tuesday 27th August when you buy yours! 
Capital One is running a 2 for 1 promotion to make your match experience in Round 2 of the Capital One Cup even better. To take part in the offer, give us a ring at 01935 847888 or visit our ticket office and quote the code CAPITALONEC2 to buy a ticket to the game and get your free accompanying ticket.
 
The first 350 tickets sold will be subject to the promotion and these will be served on a first come, first served basis and will only be available to home fans.
Season ticket holders have until Friday at 5pm to claim their seat.
Prices are:
Adults – £15
Seniors (over 65) – £10
Juniors (under 16) – £5
Want to get some more information? Check out www.capitalonecup.co.uk/2for1.
by Fungai Motezu

MAREK ITCHING TO GET BACK

Despite suffering a double fracture in his hand on Saturday against Birmingham City goalkeeper Marek Stech is still keeping his fitness levels up.
This morning the shot stopper was in the gym at Huish Park working on keeping himself as fit as possible. 
Marek said: "I’m obviously really disappointed with the injury. I don’t like missing games and I am already itching to get my gloves back on.
"If the injury was picked up by a outfield player they would be able to play within two weeks with a cast on, but I obviously need my hands to do my job!"
by Fungai Motezu

HENNESSY SIGNS ON LOAN

Yeovil Town and Wolverhampton Wanderers have agreed a month’s loan deal that will see current Wales International goal keeper Wayne Hennessy move to Huish Park to replace the injured Marek Stech.

Hennessy signed for Wolves in 2003 and has made 152 appearances for the Midlands club and is currently the Welsh International team keeper for whom he has made 38 appearances since 2007.

Wayne has been injured for several months when he suffered a cruciate knee problem in April 2012 and is glad of the opportunity of first team football as he strives to gain match fitness following the injury.

Wayne will complete the move after this Wednesday’s international subject to coming through that game unscathed.

Yeovil Town welcome Wayne and wish him a successful stay at Huish Park.

by Fungai Motezu

AWAY TRAVEL DETAILS

The Green & White supporters club are as always running away travel to all Yeovil Town games.
2013-14 GWSC memberships are always available and can be purchased on the day of any games.
To book your place send a text to Paul Hadlow on 07736 044570 or by calling him after 6.00pm. You may also email him at paulhadlow@outlook.com 
Please make it clear which match you are booking for with your full name (and any other names you are booking for) and a contact telephone number. 
Saturday 17th August 2013
Burnley
Departs Bus Station – 7:15am
Departs Football Ground – 7:30am
Mem £28.00
Conc £26.00
Non Mem £30.00
Conc  £28.00
Saturday 14th September 2013
Sheffield Wednesday
Departs Bus Station – 7:15am
Departs Football Ground – 7:30am
Mem £25.00
Conc £23.00
Non Mem £27.00
Conc  £25.00
Tuesday 17th September 2013
Ipswich
Departs Football Ground – 12:30pm
Mem £26.00
Conc £24.00
Non Mem £28.00
Conc  £26.00
Saturday 28th September 2013
Bolton
Departs Bus Station – 7:15am
Departs Football Ground – 7:30am
Mem £25.00
Conc £23.00
Non Mem £27.00
Conc  £25.00
The Away Travel Club are also running coaches for all Championship matches between now and Christmas 2013. The plans and prices are as follows: 
Sheffield Wednesday
Saturday 14th September 2013. 
Huish Park: 8.00am £25.00. 
Bolton Wanderers
Saturday 28th September 2013. 
Huish Park: 8.00am £25.00. 
Middlesbrough
Saturday 5th October 2013. 
Huish Park: 7.00am £30.00. 
Leeds United
Saturday 2nd November 2013. 
Huish Park: 8.00am £25.00. 
Watford
Saturday 30th November 2013. 
Huish Park: 9.00am £19.00. 
To place your bookings, call Roger Brimble on 01935 475384 or Mark Kelly on 07939 618 275. You will also find both present in the marquee before home matches. 
by Fungai Motezu

I AM SO PROUD SAYS PADDY

Yeovil Town striker Paddy Madden has been called up for the Republic of Ireland international squad.
Last season’s League One top scorer was watched at Huish Park by Republic of Ireland’s assistant manager Marco Tardelli on Saturday.
The match versus Wales will take place on Wednesday 14th August in Cardiff.
Paddy will travel to Wales tomorrow where he will join up with the squad ahead of the game on Wednesday.
Speaking exclusively to ytfc.net the ecstatic Madden said: “I am so proud to be called up to the squad. This is something I have dreamt about since I was a small lad.
“I know a few members of the squad having played with them at other levels for Ireland. I can not wait to meet up with them all tomorrow and fingers crossed I get to show everyone what I can do.”
Everyone associated with Yeovil Town wish Paddy good luck.
by Fungai Motezu

REPORT:YEOVIL TOWN v BIRMINGHAM CITY

Yeovil Town’s Skybet Championship home debut ended in defeat as they went down by a single goal to BIrmingham City this afternoon.
An own goal from Danny Seaborne a minute into the second half was all that separated the two sides with James Hayter hitting the post and Byron Webster’s header pushed on to the crossbar by visiting keeper Darren Randolph. The Glovers can feel hard done by that they don’t take anything from a compelling game. They will also have concerns over keeper Marek Stech who was taken to hospital with a broken hand after going off on seven minutes.
Manager Gary Johnson reverted to the side that beat Millwall at the Den last Saturday, having made five changes for the Capital One Cup tie in midweek. It meant that Nine of the starting eleven were from last year’s promotion winning side.
In a first half buzzing in a superb atmosphere generated by a crowd of more than 8,700 the injury to Stech was the first real action of the game. The big Czech came out to punch a cross clear and collided with Byron Webster, both men needing treatment but Stech going off to be replaced by Gareth Stewart.
Luke Ayling shot wide on 11 minutes and two minutes later, Paddy Madden stung Randolph’s hands with a rasping drive. Andrew Shinnie then missed a golden chance to put his side ahead when he beat the offside trap but couldn’t direct his header at all.
Webster and Madden both went close in a matter of seconds before Neil Eardley earned the first of what could have been several yellows during the match for a foul on Sam Foley. He was then followed into the notebook by Shane Ferguson for clattering Ayling.
Right on half time, a rebounded clearance fell into the path of Hayter who then side footed his effort against the outside of the post. The half ended with Eardley making his third challenge worthy of a yellow and boss Gary Johnson remonstrating with the official Mr Robinson.
The second half started in terrible fashion for the home side. Ferguson swung in a left footed corner and Webster headed against the back of former team mate Dan Burn who wheeled away in celebration. 
The game then entered a scrappy phase with yellow cards handed out increasingly more often. For BIrmingham, Robinson and Wade Elliott were booked along with Foley and Joe Edwards of Yeovil. 
Former Yeovil loan star Dan Burn, outstanding all afternoon, then went close with a curling shot before at the other end, Madden flicked a header at Randolph and Webster’s header was pushed on to the crossbar by the impressive keeper.
Michael N’Goo and Sam Hoskins replaced Foley and Madden but as time went on, Stewart was called into action to deny Shinnie. Ed Upson then went close with a free kick and both Tom Adeyemi and Callum Reilly fired shots over in the closing stages.
by Fungai Motezu

Match Report : 10/08/2013

Yeovil Town’s Skybet Championship home debut ended in defeat as they went down by a single goal to BIrmingham City this afternoon.
An own goal from Danny Seaborne a minute into the second half was all that separated the two sides with James Hayter hitting the post and Byron Webster’s header pushed on to the crossbar by visiting keeper Darren Randolph. The Glovers can feel hard done by that they don’t take anything from a compelling game. They will also have concerns over keeper Marek Stech who was taken to hospital with a broken hand after going off on seven minutes.
Manager Gary Johnson reverted to the side that beat Millwall at the Den last Saturday, having made five changes for the Capital One Cup tie in midweek. It meant that Nine of the starting eleven were from last year’s promotion winning side.
In a first half buzzing in a superb atmosphere generated by a crowd of more than 8,700 the injury to Stech was the first real action of the game. The big Czech came out to punch a cross clear and collided with Byron Webster, both men needing treatment but Stech going off to be replaced by Gareth Stewart.
Luke Ayling shot wide on 11 minutes and two minutes later, Paddy Madden stung Randolph’s hands with a rasping drive. Andrew Shinnie then missed a golden chance to put his side ahead when he beat the offside trap but couldn’t direct his header at all.
Webster and Madden both went close in a matter of seconds before Neil Eardley earned the first of what could have been several yellows during the match for a foul on Sam Foley. He was then followed into the notebook by Shane Ferguson for clattering Ayling.
Right on half time, a rebounded clearance fell into the path of Hayter who then side footed his effort against the outside of the post. The half ended with Eardley making his third challenge worthy of a yellow and boss Gary Johnson remonstrating with the official Mr Robinson.
The second half started in terrible fashion for the home side. Ferguson swung in a left footed corner and Webster headed against the back of former team mate Dan Burn who wheeled away in celebration. 
The game then entered a scrappy phase with yellow cards handed out increasingly more often. For BIrmingham, Robinson and Wade Elliott were booked along with Foley and Joe Edwards of Yeovil. 
Former Yeovil loan star Dan Burn, outstanding all afternoon, then went close with a curling shot before at the other end, Madden flicked a header at Randolph and Webster’s header was pushed on to the crossbar by the impressive keeper.
Michael N’Goo and Sam Hoskins replaced Foley and Madden but as time went on, Stewart was called into action to deny Shinnie. Ed Upson then went close with a free kick and both Tom Adeyemi and Callum Reilly fired shots over in the closing stages.
by Fungai Motezu

PICK UP YOUR COPY OF GREEN & WHITE

The Glovers begin home life in the Sky Bet Championship tomorrow when Birmingham City make the trip down the M5 to Huish Park.
Fans favourite and last season’s top scorer Paddy Madden is our main interview while inside Manager Gary Johnson and Ed Upson give us their reflections on the past week.
There’s a comprehensive guide to tomorrow’s visitors, The Blues, Don Gibson is the the first contributor of a new fans column.
We also interview comedian and Birmingham City fan Jasper Carrott.
Former Yeovil Town and Birmingham City defender Jerry Gill chats about his time at both clubs.
All this and much, much more for just £3.00, the programme is on sale from sellers all around the ground tomorrow.
by Fungai Motezu

BIRMINGHAM CITY PREVIEW – DON’T MISS IT!

Thanks to our sponsors of the Birmingham City game.
Match Sponsor – Western Gazette Programme Sponsor – Radio Cabs
Ball Sponsor – In Memory of former president Mr Norman Burfield
Huish Park opens its doors to the Sky Bet Championship this weekend and the visitors are former Premier League side Birmingham City.
The Blues have a decorated history, national silverware was won as recently as 2011 with a Carling Cup and their squad list is full of stars with Premier League and Championship experience.
However, this will not daunt the Glovers, who go into the game with two 1-0 wins in the bank.
Birmingham, managed by Lee Clarke, haven’t had the best of starts to the season, opening with a 1-0 home defeat against Watford and only progressing in the Capital One Cup with an extra time win over League Two side, Plymouth.
The game at the weekend looks like being close to a sell out with the away end already booked up in full.
It could be a case of de ja vu; the Glovers will have to deal with yet another player called Paul Robinson. Millwall’s captain may not have played last week, but Birmingham’s skipper, who goes by the same name, has a better chance of featuring.
One of Robinson’s defensive partners will need no introduction to the home crowd. Fulham loanee Dan Burn will be forever etched in Glovers’ history following his first half header at Wembley in the Play-Off final last May.
Burn will know all about the Yeovil players, and vice versa.
The two sides haven’t met in a competitive league fixture before, only a couple of friendlies have seen the sides cross paths.
In July 1997, Birmingham visited to play out a 1-1 draw, the then First Division side then bought both Jerry Gill and Howard Forinton off Yeovil less than a month later.
Before that, you have to rewind to 1986 where the two sides met at the old Huish and drew 0-0.
On the injury front, Jamie McCallister was on the bench for the first time this season, but was an unused sub for Yeovil.
James Hayter was rested from the squad entirely but should be back for this fixture, the Glovers also made four other changes.
The Blues also made changes for the Capital One Cup, including swapping ‘keeper Darren Randolph for Colin Doyle.
Elsewhere, some of their big stars including Nicolas Zigic and Marlon King are yet to make an appearance this season and Darren Ambrose is still suffering with a groin problem.
The League’s sponsors Sky Bet have make the home side slight favourites for the game, “Little Old Yeovil” really have come a long way in a short space of time.
The Championship comes to Huish Park… Don’t miss it.
Famous Fans.
Mike Skinner (Singer, The Streets), Jasper Carrott (Comedian) and Snoop Dogg was pictured in a Birmingham City shirt in 2011!
A foot in both camps.
Andros Townsend has spent time on loan with both sides, Howard Forinton, Darren Purse, Jerry Gill as well as a certain Dan Burn.
by Fungai Motezu

AWAY TRAVEL CLUB DONATE TO CLUB

Yeovil Town would like to thank the Away Travel Club for purchasing the club a fitness bike.

 

The Away Travel Club organise travel for fans and arrange raffles in the supporters marquee to raise funds.

 

Mark Kelly from the Away Travel Club said: “We are always pleased to help out where we can with donations to the club. We asked what the football department wanted and we are pleased to help them keep up their fitness and rehab with this bike.” 

by Fungai Motezu

PUNTERS SKY HIGH!

The new title sponsors of the Football League were left licking their wounds after an opening round of fixtures which saw no fewer than 102 goals scored.

 

Tens of thousands of Sky Bet customers were counting their winnings as the big guns hit the ground running leading to football punters enjoying their best day ever with the Leeds-based firm.

 

One lucky customer won no less than £15,145 from a free £3 bet after placing a ten-fold Sky Bet Football League accumulator on Wigan, Watford, Bournemouth, Blackpool, Leeds, Yeovil, Nottingham Forest, QPR, Reading and Leicester.

 

With two minutes to go Leighton Allen from Droitwich looked set to collect nothing with only eight results going his way but Ed Upson’s 88th minute winner for Yeovil at Millwall gave him late hope.

 

Then incredibly Luke Murphy’s strike, with the very last kick of the game, took all three points for Leeds at home to Brighton and helped the Aston Villa fan win his bet with odds of over 5000/1.

 

Leighton said: “Like a lot of Villa fans I was hoping we’d sign Luke Murphy but at five to five last Saturday I was thrilled he was at Leeds! Winning £15,145 from a free £3 bet is real bookie bashing! I spanked the bookies without even risk my own money. Luke Murphy is now like a god to me.”

 

Remarkably another Sky Bet customer in Market Rasen backed the exact same teams in a £1 accumulator and collected £4226.

 

Less jubilant following the late drama at Elland Road was Sky Bet’s Head of Football Paul Wiggins.

 

“It’s fair to say there weren’t many cheers in our office after the Murphy goal although we could just about hear Leighton’s even though we he was around 145 miles away,” he admitted.

 

“It was a great start to our sponsorship of the Football League in terms of the drama on the pitch and it looks like the duel between punters and bookmakers is going to be a lively one throughout the season. We’re one-nil down after the opening round though, that is for sure.”

 

If you’re new to Sky Bet, don’t forget that theyare offering all new customers a £10completely freebet to claim yours now.click here. There’s no deposit required so

 

Plus, if you love placing accumulators (like Leighton), you’ll also love Sky Bet’s Free Bet Club which rewards all customers with a £5 free bet every week. Click here to join the Free Bet Club.

 

by Fungai Motezu

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

Yeovil Town’s first home Sky Bet Championship match against Birmingham City is heading for a sellout.
Ticket sales are currently around the 8,000 mark with a few seats available but mainly Thatchers Gold Stand (terrace) tickets left.
Fans are urged to buy their tickets before Saturday to avoid the disappointment of potentially arriving on the day and not securing a ticket.
The ticket office at Huish Park is open from 9am Friday morning and closes at 5pm. It will re-open on Saturday morning at 9am.
You can purchase your tickets by calling 01935 847888 or by visiting Huish Park in person.
by Fungai Motezu

CLUB SUPPORT DONNA CREIGHTON

Each season Yeovil Town Football Club along with every Football League Club receive a share from the Community Shield fund.
This year the club and the Community Sports Trust are delighted to help and support Great Britain Skeleton star Donna Creighton.
 
One of the world’s fastest women on ice, Donna Creighton is a Yeovil Town local we should all be proud of.  
In her sport of Skeleton, Donna can reach speeds of 90 mph, lying head-first and navigating a track that has more twists and turns than a helter skelter.  
Great Britain has a successful heritage in the sport having won a bronze, silver and gold medal at the last three Olympic Winter Games.  It is Team GB’s ‘cycling’ of winter sport and Donna and her teammates are aiming to continue that success in just under six months’ time at the next Winter Olympics taking place in Sochi, Russia.
Donna is more motivated than ever to qualify for those Games having suffered heartbreak in 2010 when she narrowly missed out on a place in Team GB for the Vancouver Winter Olympics.   
Not to be deterred, Donna went on the following year to post her best season’s results finishing an incredible 6th in the World Rankings. By some margin, Donna is the ‘quickest starter’ in World Skeleton and posted some impressive results in the 9 World Cup races last season, including a 4th place finish on her favourite track at Lake Placid, USA.
Since the season finished in March, Donna and her Strength & Conditioning coach Andrew Roda, who has coached many Yeovil Town players and Donna since she was a teenager, have been focusing on the all-important off-season physical preparation.  
The summer training is a tough regime, made all the more difficult by the fact that Donna receives no funding to support her life as an athlete. British Skeleton, through the National Lottery, is well-funded so that Donna and her team-mates have access to the best coaches, equipment and sports science support.  
However, Donna herself is not and has to support herself during the summer months when she is based in her hometown of Yeovil and regularly travels for testing and specialised training on the Push Track at the outstanding facilities at the University of Bath.
Donna knows that these months are crucial to her preparations for the Sochi Olympics and the support provided by Yeovil Town FC and the Trust will mean that she can give training her total commitment.  
Donna said: “Competing at the Winter Olympics has been my dream and I will do everything I can to get there and make my town and country proud. The support from Yeovil Town FC will go a long way to help me make that dream a reality, and I couldn’t be more thankful to you all.”
Off the ice, Donna can also claim to have assisted Yeovil Town’s promotion last season.  
A trained Sports Massage Therapist, she spent some time supporting Yeovil Town’s Physio Michael Micciche in massaging Yeovil players after tough training sessions. We hope for good luck for both Donna and Yeovil Town FC in the seasons ahead!
by Fungai Motezu

BIRMINGHAM CITY INFO-GRAPHIC

The Birmingham City info-graphic can now be downloaded or viewed below.

Before every game Liam Warr will be supplying ytfc.net with his latest info-graphic creation.
Download the file here. (BIG FILE)
by Fungai Motezu

GLOVERS GIVEN BIRMINGHAM TIE

Yeovil Town have been given a home draw against Birmingham City in the second round of the Capital One Cup.

The draw for the second round tie was made at 12.30pm where unseeded clubs were subject to a pre-draw, while seeded clubs were drawn out live on Sky Sports News.
The tie will take place week commencing 26th August.
by Fungai Motezu

PRICES CUT IN MARQUEE

In celebration of the team’s achievements Yeovil Town are lowering the prices of beverages in the marquee for the all home game during August.
Prices will be reduced on Carlsberg lager, Tetleys bitter and Thatchers cider.
The prices will be reduced to: Carlsberg – £2.50. Tetleys – £2.50 and Thatchers – £3.00.
by Fungai Motezu

TOWN CHAMPION NEW DIPLOMA

A new and exciting coach education partnership between Bridgwater College and Yeovil Town Football Club Community Trust is being launched which will hopefully mimic the success of the existing Bristol City Football Club programme.
 
The partnership, in conjunction with Prodec Education Limited, gives students wishing to pursue a career in football coaching a qualification pathway. In year one students will study the Level 2 FA Qualifications and a Diploma in Coaching in Community Settings, progressing to a Level 3 Diploma in year two.
 
The Level 2 Teaching and Coaching Football in Community Settings will be available to both male and female students, who will also be given the opportunity to represent the Bridgwater College Football Academy, which will be based at the Community Trust Development Centre in Yeovil.
 
Roy O’Brien, Joint Manager at Yeovil Town Community Sports Trust said, “We are delighted to have formed a partnership with Bridgwater College and Prodec to deliver this excellent programme. It is a fantastic opportunity for 16-19* year olds to gain qualifications in football whilst also gaining valuable coaching experience with the Trust.”
 
Jason Gunningham, Head of Sport and Services at Bridgwater College said, "We are thrilled to be the lead education partner for Yeovil Town Community Trust. This new football Diploma course is aimed at developing students’ competencies and career skills so that they can work within the wide ranging and rewarding world of community and professional football coaching. The purpose of our partnership with the Community Trust is to provide real working opportunities for the young people of Yeovil and its surrounding areas with the Trust. It also gives those students industry recognised qualifications and quality teaching, which will not only develop the next generation of football coaches but also enable students to develop their playing careers further with the Club and College.”
 
Those interested in this new programme, are invited to attend one of two Open Evenings being held on Thursday 15 August and Thursday 22 August from 7-9pm in The Alex Stock Lounge at Huish Park Stadium.
 
* 19 year olds will be required to pay College fees.
by Fungai Motezu

TOWN WIN F&C PERFORMANCE AWARD

The League Managers Association five-man Performance of the Week panel, comprising LMA Chairman Howard Wilkinson, Sir Alex Ferguson, Joe Royle, Dave Bassett and Barry Fry, were in agreement that this week, the F&C Investments Performance of the Week Award should go to Yeovil Town following their excellent 1-0 away win against Millwall in the Sky Bet Championship on 3 August 2013.
Yeovil manager Gary Johnson will receive a specially engraved crystal football in a presentation to commemorate the award.
Yeovil won the first F&C Investments Performance of the Week Award of the season in what was their first game in the second tier of English football in the club’s history.
Edward Upson was the match winner as he scored a late winner to hand the Championship newcomers all three points at The Den.
After the match, Johnson was delighted with the performance and result;
"We are used to people telling us we are going to get relegated and with our budget we really should be, but we use it as a strength.
"Anything we do is a bonus. But we have a group of lads who know how to put in a shift and work for each other. They will all improve as they are a young lot.
"I think we deserved that win. I thought we played the best side in the first half without having any real chances."
by Fungai Motezu

PADDY PUT ON STANDBY

Yeovil Town striker Paddy Madden has been placed on standby for the Republic of Ireland squad for their friendly against Wales on Wednesday 14th August.
Paddy has been placed on stand-by as Hull City winger Stephen Quinn has withdrawn from the squad. 
Former loan goalkeeper Stephen Henderson has now joined the squad due to Millwall keeper David Forde picking up an injury against Yeovil in the opening game.
by Fungai Motezu

RESTRUCTURING AT HUISH PARK

We are now only days away from the Glovers first Sky Bet Championship league match at Huish Park. 
The next two seasons are going to be the most important in the club’s history and since our incredible success at Wembley in May, everyone at Huish Park have been working flat out to plan and organise our operation resources to meet our Championship challenge.
Executive chairman John Fry, who has adjusted his title in line with the structural changes, has confirmed Martyn Starnes – who left to become CEO at Plymouth Argyle last month – will not be replaced.
Fry will extend his hands-on role and delegate responsibilities amongst his directors whilst splitting operations at the club into football and stadium categories.
Andy Rossiter will oversee catering and hospitality, David Lee will control legal matters, whilst Ron Budden heads the Glovers’ commercial division.
Brian Willis is in charge of stadium operations, Steven Allinson is the Yeovil Town Community Sports Trust’s new chairman, and co-owner Norman Hayward is football director.
Alan Chamberlain, John Dover and secretary Jean Cotton will control financial matters, human resources and football issues respectively.
Executive Chairman John Fry stated “Nothing great has ever been achieved without enthusiasm and hard work. Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference. The way we perform as a team on and off the pitch will determine our future success.
“Over the past 20 years I have put together a inspiring team that have achieved four promotions and two Wembley finals and also maintained financial viability throughout the business.
“I have now reorganised and strengthened that team to compete at Championship level. I am pleased to report that so far everything is going to plan and we now have in place for at least the next stage of our development the best board of directors and management team in the Football League.
“I can assure you we are not going to settle for second best.”
Fry explained that not only would the new structure allow for extra resources to be diverted to the club’s football operations, but for greater attention to be paid to improving departments whilst looking to build for the future.
He said: “There are more than 150 years of support of this football club in this board. We have broken down the responsibilities into certain areas and into football matters and stadium matters, with heads of department reporting directly to directors and others straight to me. 
“These people are committed to the club. Some I started with in 1995 and they do a lot of work behind the scenes and they give a lot of their time on a voluntary basis.
 
“We can see we can save money and put it into business development or the football team. I have now called myself an executive chairman that can work with the directors, who all have a speciality.”
Fry added his thanks for Starnes’ efforts, stating they remain friends, and said his departure would allow other staff at Huish Park to step up.
“It was disappointing that Martyn went but that’s life,” he said. “But with all the jobs that he did we have rewarded the top staff by giving them extra responsibility. 
“We have given them that opportunity, that chance to earn extra money and we have have promoted from within. 
“I have said if we make this work we don’t have to go down another route. If there’s a weak link and it doesn’t work we will have to go another way.”
by Fungai Motezu

FAN CLAPPERS ARRIVE AT HUISH PARK

Gary Johnson has added a bit of European flair to this Saturday’s match.
 
In conjunction with The Green and White Supporters Club Yeovil Town supporters will be given a FREE fan clapper to help crank up the atmosphere of Saturday’s expected full house for the Birmingham City match.
Fan clappers are all the rage in Germany with huge clubs like Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Schalke, Fulham and Brighton have had them at their ground.
The fan clappers will be available FREE and can be obtained from all the Green & White Supporter programme sellers.
So be sure to get yours and let’s create a cracking atmosphere for our opponents from the Midlands.
by Fungai Motezu

REPORT: SOUTHEND UTD v YEOVIL TOWN

Town advanced to the second round of the Capital One Cup with a 1-0 victory over League Two side Southend United.
A solitary first-half goal from winger Kevin Dawson was enough to ensure Gary Johnson’s men advanced to the next round.
Manager Johnson made five changes from the starting eleven that won away at Millwall in the first game of the Championship campaign.
Liam Davis, Billy Clifford, Joel Grant, Michael Ngoo and Sam Hoskins all started in the place of Dan Seaborne, Ed Upson, Sam Foley, James Hayter and Paddy Madden.
Yeovil had the first shot on goal of the tie early on when Bentley in the Southend goal comfortably gathered Sam Hoskins long-range effort.
The hosts took a while to get going and it took them 13 minutes before they had their first shot at goal. A neat turn and volley from Reid went comfortably wide of the left upright.
On 20 minutes a jinking run by Southend midfielder Jack Payne saw him beat three Town defenders but his powerful goal bound shot was well blocked Ayling just inside the area.
With the hosts having the majority of play Yeovil sprung a attack down the left wing through Grant. The winger’s cross was cleared against Hoskins and safely into the grateful hands on Bentley.
On 35 minutes good build up on the right saw Hoskins cross to the advancing Edwards, but his acrobatic volley went just wide. 
Just second later a inch perfect through ball from Hoskins found Dawson in space and the Irishman made no mistake is putting the ball past Bentley and into the far corner.
With two minutes to go before the half time break the hosts worked a free-kick down the right which ended at the feet of Bennett , but his shot went high over the bar and even cleared the stand housing the Yeovil fans.
Hoskins was proving to be a thorn in the hosts side and it was the former Southampton man who went close for the Town. The striker beat two men out side the area but his powerful shot went just wide of the post.
Patient build up from the Yeovil midfield created the next chance for Ngoo. Midfielder Joe Edwards picked the ball up 25 yards out and fed the big striker. His touch saw him create enough space to fire a shot at goal, but his effort beat Bentley and the far post.
With 20 minutes remaining Gary Johnson introduced Paddy Madden in place of goal scorer Dawson having earlier changed Edwards for Ed Upson.
Upson nearly scored his second volleyed goal of the season but his well-struck effort went wide with keeper Bentley well beaten.
In the dying minutes Grant found himself in lots of space on the right, but the midfielders shot went high over the bar.
The fourth official showed five minutes of added time and it was in this time that the hosts made Stech make his first save of the match. 
A cross from the left was headed at goal by Phillips but Stech’s full stretch save was enough to secure the win for the Glovers.
by Fungai Motezu

Southend United v Yeovil Town

Town advanced to the second round of the Capital One Cup with a 1-0 victory over League Two side Southend United.
A solitary first-half goal from winger Kevin Dawson was enough to ensure Gary Johnson’s men advanced to the next round.
Manager Johnson made five changes from the starting eleven that won away at Millwall in the first game of the Championship campaign.
Liam Davis, Billy Clifford, Joel Grant, Michael Ngoo and Sam Hoskins all started in the place of Dan Seaborne, Ed Upson, Sam Foley, James Hayter and Paddy Madden.
Yeovil had the first shot on goal of the tie early on when Bentley in the Southend goal comfortably gathered Sam Hoskins long-range effort.
The hosts took a while to get going and it took them 13 minutes before they had their first shot at goal. A neat turn and volley from Reid went comfortably wide of the left upright.
On 20 minutes a jinking run by Southend midfielder Jack Payne saw him beat three Town defenders but his powerful goal bound shot was well blocked Ayling just inside the area.
With the hosts having the majority of play Yeovil sprung a attack down the left wing through Grant. The winger’s cross was cleared against Hoskins and safely into the grateful hands on Bentley.
On 35 minutes good build up on the right saw Hoskins cross to the advancing Edwards, but his acrobatic volley went just wide. 
Just second later a inch perfect through ball from Hoskins found Dawson in space and the Irishman made no mistake is putting the ball past Bentley and into the far corner.
With two minutes to go before the half time break the hosts worked a free-kick down the right which ended at the feet of Bennett , but his shot went high over the bar and even cleared the stand housing the Yeovil fans.
Hoskins was proving to be a thorn in the hosts side and it was the former Southampton man who went close for the Town. The striker beat two men out side the area but his powerful shot went just wide of the post.
Patient build up from the Yeovil midfield created the next chance for Ngoo. Midfielder Joe Edwards picked the ball up 25 yards out and fed the big striker. His touch saw him create enough space to fire a shot at goal, but his effort beat Bentley and the far post.
With 20 minutes remaining Gary Johnson introduced Paddy Madden in place of goal scorer Dawson having earlier changed Edwards for Ed Upson.
Upson nearly scored his second volleyed goal of the season but his well-struck effort went wide with keeper Bentley well beaten.
In the dying minutes Grant found himself in lots of space on the right, but the midfielders shot went high over the bar.
The fourth official showed five minutes of added time and it was in this time that the hosts made Stech make his first save of the match. 
A cross from the left was headed at goal by Phillips but Stech’s full stretch save was enough to secure the win for the Glovers.
by Fungai Motezu

FIVE CHANGES FOR GLOVERS

Gary Johnson has made five changes for the Capital One Cup first round tie against Southend United.
Liam Davis, Billy Clifford, Joel Grant, Michael Ngoo and Sam Hoskins all start in the place of Dan Seaborne, Ed Upson, Sam Foley, James Hayter and Paddy Madden.
Alan Tate starts at centre back alongside Byron Webster. Joe Edwards is partnered by Billy Clifford in midfield with a strike partnership of Ngoo and Hoskins.
Yeovil Town: Stech; Ayling, Webster, Tate, Davis; Dawson, Edwards, Clifford, Grant; Ngoo, Hoskins.
Subs: Stewart, McAllister, Madden, Seaborne, Moore, Upson, Foley.
by Fungai Motezu

FIVELIVE NEED YOUR HELP

Five Live are looking to speak to as many Yeovil fans as possible, especially those of you who have seen how much the rise in the club’s fortunes have affected the town and the people in the Yeovil area.

We’re looking for people fairly local to the ground, but the more varied your pre-match routine the better. Whether that’s a drink in the local pub or closing your shop before making your way to Huish Park, we’d like to hear from you. We’ll be talking to you about what the first game in The Championship means to the club and more importantly, yourself.

 

Whether you run a local B&B or farm in the area, or if you plan on pitching up at the beer tent outside the ground before kick-off- we can come to you and find out what Yeovil Town FC means to the people of Yeovil.

 

If you’d be interested in speaking to us, and would like to get in contact with me, please do so at George.cottam@bbc.co.uk before Friday evening. I will get back in touch with as many people as I can to confirm arrangements.

by Fungai Motezu

TROPHY TOUR

Yeovil Town Football Club have announced that they will be touring major towns in the County and adjacent counties to give their supporters the opportunity to view the League One Play-Off Trophy they won at Wembley back in May.

Negotiations with Town Clerks are taking place and as soon as the full list of towns is known the dates and times of the visits will be announced.

Among Towns expected to be visited are the following: Taunton, Wellington, Bridgwater, Shepton Mallett, Glastonbury, Wells, Street, Somerton, Minehead, Frome, Dorchester, Weymouth, Crewkerne , Chard, Ilminster, Sherborne, Watchet, Weston Super Mare, Bath, Burnham on Sea, Clevedon, Cheddar, Axminster, Lyme Regis, Bridport, West Bay, Seaton, Sidmouth, Shaftesbury, Gillingham, Wincanton etc.

Members of the very successful Yeovil Town Ladies team will drive our specially emblazoned Mini (Courtesy of Westerly BMW) and they hope to be able to stay in each venue for around two hours.

So if you want a photograph with our Trophy then watch this web site or your local news paper for more details as they are confirmed.

Two early confirmed venues are Somerset County Cricket Club, Taunton on August 15th from 12 Noon and Bath Racecourse on August 22nd. also from 12 Noon

by Fungai Motezu

SOUTHEND UNITED INFO-GRAPHIC

Continuing our new feature on ytfc.net here is the latest info-graphic.
Yeovil Town fan Liam Warr will provide fans with a graphic each week.
Below is the Southend United vs Yeovil Head-to-Head Infographic
The image can be downloaded here (BIG FILE SIZE)
by Fungai Motezu

MORE VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE

There are two more videos now live on out YouTube Channel for fans to enjoy.

The first video is of Jamie McAllister’s reaction when Ed Upson scored the winner on Saturday.
The second video is a montage on Yeovil Town and is called The Impossible Dream.
Click here to view the Impossible Dream video.
Click here to view the Jamie McAllister video.

 

by Fungai Motezu

SOUTHEND UNITED PREVIEW

In among all the excitement about the Glovers’ incredible start to the SkyBet Championship at the weekend, you could almost be forgiven for forgetting the Capital One Cup kicks off this week. 
Yeovil travel to Southend, not for a trip to the seaside, but to try and overcome Phil Brown’s League Two side and reach the Second Round. 
The Shrimpers kick started their season on Saturday and faced another South-West side with a green kit, Plymouth, they’ll be hoping for a similar result too, a 1-0 home win.
It was Barry Corr on the scoresheet at the weekend, but they have also got firepower from the likes of Freddy Eastwood and Craig Reid to keep the visitors on their toes. 
Following the 1-0 victory at Millwall, Glovers boss Gary Johnson suggested changes may be on the cards for the trip to Roots Hall, mentioning Joel Grant and Billy Clifford as possible replacements for the starting 11 after they were unused substitutes.
Michael N’Goo replaced Paddy Madden at half time in that game, could the Liverpool loanee get a go from the start, or will Paddy be given a chance to open his account for the season?
If Billy Clifford does feature, he could be directly up against former Yeovil loanee and namesake Connor, who joined the Shrimpers this summer – that might get confusing for anyone shouting names!
Southend and Yeovil have met each other a few times in the football league but not since the 2009/10 season. 
Yeovil won 1-0 at home (Dean Bowditch) and drew 0-0 away that season.
It was the season before that when we last won on their back garden, a 1-0 win secured by Aaron Brown’s acrobatic effort. An inspired Josh Wagenaar performance meant that Aiden Downes’ red card wasn’t too damaging. 
In this competition last season; Yeovil overcame Colchester in the first round before giving Premier League West Brom an almighty scare in round two, Southend had slightly less success going out to Peterborough United in a 4-0 loss at the first hurdle. 
As with last season, should the game be level at 90 minutes, it’s Extra Time and Penalties (if needed) so allow for a potentially long night if you’re planning on using public transport. 
Famous Fans.
Alison Moyet (The Singer) …. And that’s about it, although Jeremy Kyle was recently invited in to Southend to give a motivational team talk, so we’ll count him too. 
A foot in both camps. 
Steve Collis, Wayne Gray and Matt Harrold as well as former loanees; Connor Clifford, Kevin Betsy and Jean Francios Christophe.
by Fungai Motezu

GET YOUR BIRMINGHAM TICKETS EARLY!

Yeovil Town are urging fans to buy their tickets for Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship clash with Birmingham City early to avoid disappointment.
 
After Saturday’s win over Millwall the ticket office has been very busy this morning with both phone orders and fans queuing at the windows.
 
With tickets selling fast some seating areas are now becoming very limited.
 
If ordering by telephone please leave a message and someone will be in touch as soon as possible.
Tickets can booked by calling 01935 847888.


by Fungai Motezu

Millwall v Yeovil Town

In glorious sunshine the Glovers kicked off their Sky Bet Championship campaign with a entertaining 1-0 victory away at Millwall.

 

The hosts were the first to create a chance with Morison heading wide from a Lowry cross, when perhaps he should have at least tested Stech.

 

Just after ten minutes Ed Upson picked the ball up out side the Millwall area, looked up to see keeper Forde off his line, but his audacious chip went narrowly over.

 

With 15 minutes on the clock Town thought they had taken the lead. A free-kick on the right was whipped across by Upson onto the head on new boy Seaborne. The defender out jumped his marker to head at goal, but Forde was on hand to get a strong hand on the ball right on the line.

 

Stech was called into his first real save after 25 minutes when he was quick off his line to deny James Henry a certain goal. The hosts neat passing move saw the midfielder beat the offside trap but the big shot stopper was on hand to keep the score at 0-0.

 

At the half-time break Gary Johnson made one change with Paddy Madden being replaced by Michael Ngoo.

 

Ten minutes into the second half James Hayter appeared to be wrestled to the ground by Beevers but referee Whitestone waved away the claims.

 

Seconds later Stech was called into a acrobatic save to tip a venomous shot by Henry over the bar.

 

It was that man Henry who had the next clear-cut chance for the home side. A through ball to Morison was intercepted by Stech, but his clearance ended at the feet of Henry, who had the whole goal to aim at but put his effort high and wide.

After a bit of pressure from the Glovers Yeovil took the lead with two minutes remaining on the clock.

Upson chested the ball down on the edge of the area and hit a volley that wrong footed Forde and hit the back of the net.

The fourth official indicated three minutes of added time but the Glovers held on comfortably to secure their first ever win the second tier of English football.

 

 

by Fungai Motezu

TEAM NEWS FROM MILLWALL

Gary Johnson has handed two new recruits debuts in today’s Sky Bet Championship opener against Millwall.

Jamie McAllister misses out after only just returning to training this week and he is replaced at left-back by new loan signing Alan Tate.
Dan Seaborne makes his Yeovil Town debut at the centre of defence alongside skipper Byron Webster.
Last season’s top goalscorer Paddy Madden starts up front alongside James Hayter.
Yeovil Town: Stech; Ayling, Webster, Seaborne, Tate; Foley, Edwards, Upson, Dawson; Madden, Hayter.
Subs: Stewart, Grant, Hoskins, Moore, Davis, Ngoo, Clifford.
by Fungai Motezu

BOOK EARLY FOR BIRMINGHAM MATCH

Yeovil Town kick off their home Sky Bet Championship campaign against Birmingham City next Saturday (10th August, 3pm) and fans are urged to purchase tickets in advance.
With a big crowd expected the club would urge fans to purchase their tickets early to avoid queuing at Huish Park.
There will be pre-match entertainment and we would love fans to be in the ground as early as possible to see the pre-match build-up and create a memorable atmosphere like the one that was created before kick off at Wembley in May.
Tickets can be purchased in person from Huish Park or by calling 01935 847888.
by Fungai Motezu

GOOD LUCK FROM SKY BET!

Sky Bet, the new sponsors of the Football League, would like to wish the best of luck to each and every club this coming season.
As official sponsors, Sky Bet are committed to giving you an even bigger kick out of the game we all know and love and will be offering you:
• Regular price boosts on popular bets across all Football League competitions
• Club and league specific specials
• League specific enhanced accumulators
• A £5 Free Bet every single week (for both new and existing customers)
… plus if you join today, you can claim a £10 completely free bet.
As if that wasn’t enough, Sky Bet will also be running regular competitions for customers to win tickets, signed shirts, VIP trips, player and team experiences and much, much more during what promises to be another exciting year for the Football League.
Good Luck!!!
Register now for your completely free £10 bet, no deposit required by clicking here
Follow the official Sky Bet Football League account on Twitter here
Like Sky Bet on Facebook here
by Fungai Motezu

ROAD CLOSURES IN LONDON

Yeovil Town fans are advised that two events will take place in London on Saturday.
The events are:
Prudential RideLondon FreeCycle: a free, family-friendly, mass participation bike ride on closed roads through Westminster and the City of London.
Prudential RideLondon Grand Prix: junior, hand-cycle and professional women cyclists racing on closed roads in and around St James’s Park.
Traffic impacts on Saturday 3 August will be fairly light and will be in the central London area. 
The following river crossing will be closed to traffic, but open to pedestrians, on the day:
Southwark Bridge – closed from 04:00 to 18:00
Westminster Bridge – closed from04:00 to 18:00
Also vehicle access will be restricted to the roads listed below.
Jamaica Road (both sides) between the junctions with Mill Street and Lower Road.
Queen Elizabeth Street eastbound (between the junctions with Tooley Street and Tower Bridge Road)
Southwark Bridge northbound
Southwark Bridge Road northbound (between the junctions with Southwark Street and Southwark Bridge)
Tower Bridge Road northbound (between the junctions with Tooley Street and Tower Bridge)
by Fungai Motezu

MILLWALL HEAD-TO-HEAD INFOGRAPHIC

As a new feature on ytfc.net we will run a infographic before each game.
Yeovil Town fan Liam Warr will provide fans with a graphic each week.
Below is the Millwall vs Yeovil Head-to-Head Infographic
The image can be downloaded here (BIG FILE SIZE)
Research & design by Liam Warr.  
by Fungai Motezu

INTO THE LIONS DEN

Yeovil Town will embark on their landmark season in the Sky Bet Championship with an opening fixture away at London side Millwall.
The Lions, managed by former West Ham legend Steve Lomas will be hoping to avoid another season looking over their shoulders, their 20th place finish last season saw them stay up by just the two points.
But, with a new manager and a new season they will have new hope of a positive campaign.
Lomas has taken the reigns following Kenny Jackett’s departure during last season.
As with most sides during the summer Lomas’ side have been active in the transfer window, seven have gone – including former Glover, Steve Mildenhall – and no fewer than eight new faces could make their debuts at the weekend.
The star signing is arguably Steve Morison from Leeds, initially on loan. The former Norwich man is back at the New Den after a prolific spell between 2009-2011.
Morison will line up with the likes of Jermaine Easter and Scott McDonald both with a host of Championship experience.
It was the Leeds loanee who scored the only goal in Millwall’s final preseason game, a victory against Spanish side Rayo Vallecano.
The game was played as a testimonial to long standing captain Paul Robinson who, should he play against Yeovil, will notch up his 291st appearance in the blue of Millwall.
Whilst playing at this level will be a new experience for Yeovil fans, playing against Millwall is actually nothing new.
It was as recently as 2010 when the sides last met. A 0-0 draw was played out at the New Den in September of 2009 whilst a Dean Bowditch goal earned  a point at Huish Park in the reverse fixture.
In fact, Millwall haven’t taken all three points of Yeovil in the last four games; three draws and single Yeovil victory since the 2008/09 season.
For the Glovers, Jamie McCallister remains a doubt through injury, as does Nathan Ralph, but with a plethora of defensive additions Yeovil could field any number of players in the gaps.
Other than that, it’s only Dan Burn, now of Birmingham, who will be missing from the side that started at Wembley.
New signings Michael N’Goo, Kieffer Moore and Sam Hoskins will be fighting for positions in attack while Joel Grant will be taking on the established midfielders with Billy Clifford.
The Lions have been a Championship side since 2010 when they finally cracked their play-off curse gaining promotion at the sixth attempt – some sides just need the two bites at the cherry – but since then have held their own in the second tier.
May the 19th may have been the most enjoyable day for Glovers fans, but maybe August the 3rd will be the most significant.
 
Famous Fans – who could you bump into in line for a hotdog?
David Haye (Boxer), Danny Baker (Radio Broadcaster) and Des O’Connor (Entertainer)
A foot in both camps – which players have played for both sides?
Steve Mildenhall, Kim Grant and Marc Bircham among others.