Jon Palmer is going on loan to Windsor & Eton.
Craig Brown's loan was not renewed - he is part of Orient's first team squad.
A fter an unbeaten run of eight games United crashed out of the league cup 7-1 against Grays on Tuesday night. After a first half full of fine play from both sides (and shaded by Sutton) few would have thought the U's would concede six goals in the second.
There is always something positive to take out of any game, and the one last night was no exception. Stuart Hammonds pointed out to me (light-heartedly), the goals stopped after he entered the field! It would good to see him back. At any rate it will give JR options in defence for future games.
With the match suspension for Scott Corbett due I would like to see Mison in the midfield with Hammonds replacing him!
With every setback like the one on Tuesday it will give the management team plenty of points to show how not to defend and I guess it is better to get them all in one game rather than over several!
W ith St Albans suspended from the league there will not be a team relegated this year. With many clubs in financial problems there will be many managers who will be told to slash their budget by off loading players and filling the side with youngsters. This could result in some interesting results in the coming months.
I was in no doubt of a U's win on Saturday and at half time I was confident enough to predict a 4-1 win. The six goals were the reward for the intelligent play the side showed. Add that to the pace and enthusiasm the team now has it could imply a good end to the season. The only problem we have is the defence that is still prone to error. With Brooker and Hammonds recovering from injury we will nevertheless have options later in the year.
The side will be tested rather more thoroughly in the next two home games against far superior opponents. Billericay who are admittedly going through a bad patch and Grays who must be pleased with their place in the top three, will test the U's new found confidence. If the promise of warmer weather materialises for this weekend, the game at Harrow should be a chance for the U's to keep up the winning habit. Sutton have gone five games without a defeat and would expect the run to continue against sides who have not won at home for thirteen games.
The current six game form guide for the teams shows Harrow losing five and drawing the other at home to Hampton. Sutton have won three drawn two with the one defeat at home to Canvey Island.
United drew with Harrow 1-1 while going through their own abysmal run at the start of the season.
Like Sutton Harrow Borough have a keeper who plays for his national team. Goalkeeper Keita Karamoko was called up to the Mali national squad for the African Nations Cup tournament that commences later this month.
I predict a 3-1 victory for the U's. However it would be nice if we could keep a clean sheet!
Sutton United will meet Grays Athletic in the third round of the league cup a date has to be arranged.
Wood 1 United 2 It was a long, cold afternoon. First the ref injured his leg after about ten minutes and there was a delay while a new official got ready.
Sutton went 1-0 up, ball went over Haworth's head to a defender who couldn't control, Haworth gave it to Akuamoah who was about level with the penalty spot. He dribbled it across the face of the goal then shot into the near post, wrongfooting the keeper. Great goal.
Their equaliser seemed due to some slack defending, possibly Dave Timothy, with a striker unmarked receiving a cross from the right.
We went 2-1 up in the second half when the Wood No. 5 neatly intercepted a shot across the goal to beat his own keeper.
Then a very ominous thing happened, they had a player sent off after he lashed out at Matt Gray - actually two of them did in short succession but perhaps the stand-in ref was a bit fazed by that! Scott Corbett also booked in the ensuing minor bundle - I think it was him anyway and, if it was, he was lucky not be sent off a couple of minutes later when he turned and kicked someone who had fouled him.
Well, true to habit we dropped deeper and allowed the ten men to take the initiative and they came very close once. Their sub caused us some problems with his pace.
Mind you, we had several chances in the second half too, Eddie had one cleared off the line and Scott Corbett was one-on-one with the keeper who saved with his feet.
Mr Wingfield looked pretty sharp and a good game although like everyone else he retreated for periods of the second half. His passing and crossing was very crisp and for this fact alone I hope he will be a very positive influence on the other players. Underhit passes have been the bane of the season.
All round some good performances, even if we could have pushed upfield a bit. Given trips to this ground always seem pretty grim, AND we had the severe disadvantage of an extra player, a victory to be pleased with!
Archie
United had one their best results of the season against third in the league Braintree on Saturday. With five changes from the team that met Braintree at the start of the season the young United side dominated for most of the game.
The U's will now go into the local derby with Kingstonians on Boxing Day with a little more confidence. The K's are doing particularly well at home this season, so Sutton will need to improve their dismal away form if they are hoping for success.
Thanks for the wonderful response to the "United for life" section in the FANZONE.
Gutted Down Under is John Moody's article on the "Aussie Socceroos" in their quest for World Cup qualification in Melbourne. You can find that in United thoughts from abroad below.
If you would like to contribute or read what other United fans have to say follow the links below.
What is it that makes you a Sutton fan? What makes you stick by a club that is going through a bad spell, what have been your highs and lows of following the team and why will you never turn your back on the boys from Gander Gander Green Lane? Give us you views in the Fanzone
United will face Westfield of the Combined Counties League in the fourth round of the Surrey Senior Cup Westfield beat Egham 1-0 in the third round. That game is likely to be in late January.
The Boxing Day derby at Kingstonian will kick off at noon
The long trip to Thame United will test the support of the U's! United play the mid-table side from the 1st division on Tuesday 11th December.
The player who will be well known by the U's fans will be Mark West, who joined the Club from Farnborough Town the 35 year old forward has experience at Conference level with Wycombe Wanderers and Slough Town.
I'm sure most United fans are expecting a win tonight against Dulwich, after a run of four games without a victory the U's should beat a Dulwich side who's form is as depressing as the home side. Hamlet have gone eight games without a win on their travels.
Former player Dulwich players Mat Fowler and Gwynne Berry will be keen to do well particularly Gwynne as he managed the club earlier in the season. The sides met in a pre-season fixture that Sutton won 2-1.
There will has be a result tonight as extra time and penalties will be used if the teams can not be separated on the night.
Kidderminster Harriers 3 Sutton United 1
The Youth team went 1 down early on with a deflection. The 2nd goal came just before half time. We pulled back to 2-1 via Terry Gardner but a third goal (own goal?) after the break killed us off.
Game was closer than score line suggests but even though Matt Gray was back upfront, we missed two of our regular defenders who were injured last week.
I'm told Kidderminster were best team we have met.
The U's travel to Maidenhead on Saturday. Two goals from Danny Bolt gave us a less than convincing win in the corresponding fixture last season.
It would be difficult to predict the likely winners on Saturday as the home team have an indifferent home form whilst the U's have produced some of their worst performances away from Gander Green Lane.
Being an optimist I will go for a 2-1 victory for the U's. Give me your predictions on the Chat page
The beauty of football is that we all have very different views on the game! Many fans say we always play well against the better sides, that is true, but that is true of all sides! Players go into the game very focused when they are playing better sides. That is why you get cup upsets! Sutton will never approach a game against Canvey or Aldershot in the same way as they would against a team from the lower reaches of the league. It is the same way supporters are more "up" for the bigger games.
As for the game last night, it is foolish to think Sutton sat back and defended in the second half. Canvey were better in every department last night and could have scored at least three goals in the first half! We did not sit back we were forced back by a better side!
As for the debate on JR, his past record is good, you do not loose the plot with age! Surely it improves with time? Getting a team to gel in not an exact science, JR brought a squad together at the start of the season, they performed well enough for most of them to get two year contracts. The dilemma now is do you sell some, or hope the team starts to perform again!
JR is not a great manager, but I believe he is one of the better ones in the league. He could be replaced, but is it worth the gamble, it would cost the club more with no guarantee of success.
We all react differently when the side is doing poorly, some think it is all down to poor coaching others think we get a poor deal from the referees. The truth is it is, our turn to go through a lean patch. It is up to the fans to support the club and players in every way.
NEWS
Stuart Hammonds has spoken to Alan Taylor who has agreed with John for him to go and have a couple of games with him at Bracknell.
Stuart will be training with them tomorrow night and playing against Aveley on Saturday. he also thinks Nko is gong to be playing a few games for him as well, although he's not there on Saturday due to a wedding.
Stuart said, " It'll be good to get some competitive football under my belt before I go on holiday for a couple of weeks, and I'm certainly looking forward to linking up with Alan, Nko and Neil Baker again."
Julian Dicks, who made 315 appearances (262 League & 53 Cup) for West Ham over an 11 year spell is likely to be in the line up for the Islanders tonight. Dicks, who is 33, made his debut on Saturday in the 3-2 victory against Braintree. Tilson and Cobb are likely to be the threat up front tonight with sixteen goals between them in the league. Can we win? Any side that can loose away to Croydon can be beaten! Counterbalancing that, is the away victories over Chesham (5-1) and the thrashing of Heybridge 7-1!
Other news, Stuart Hammonds continued his come back with a run out in the reserves on Saturday, he said, "I lasted the full 90 minutes of our 2-2 draw with Walton & Hersham reserves.
Although the result wasn't the best, we did dominate the game and they only
really had the two chances.
I even made my first tackle. Everyone has said to me that when I go in for
my first challenge I won't even think about it. It will just be something I
do subconsciously. I can honestly say that's true.
The centre-forward was
clean through and bearing down on Tom at the edge of the box (as a result of
my short back-pass admittedly!) and I knew that I had to make the tackle to
stop him scoring.
As he drew back to shoot, I tackled him to knock it back to Dunny and he
followed through to boot my leg. I felt my calf go a bit dead, then thought
"wicked, it's still in one piece", got up straight away had a run and
thought to myself, maybe that wasn't as bad as I expected it to be!!"
Matt Gray's loan expires at the end of this week, he could be drafted into the squad for the FA Youth Cup, scheduled for Monday 26th November at Kidderminster.
Murray returns to the Orient. Paul Brush did not want to extend the loan of Jay Murray, as he wants to give all of his squad a chance to impress him at Brisbane Road.
League Cup, Home v Dulwich
A note from Stuart Hammonds
I thought I'd let you know that
I'm having my first run out in the reserves tomorrow at home to Oxford City
(providing I don't have a lasting reaction to training last night - bit sore
at the moment, but that's par for the course on a Friday morning!).
I'm looking forward to it, even if I am a bit nervous. I don't think anyone will see me flying into many 50-50s just yet, but we'll see how I go and just try to get a bit of sharpness back.
I dare say you'll be going up to Hendon to cheer the lads on, and I'm sure
we'll get a result there. Let's hope so anyway because I quite fancy an
appearance in a Trophy final this year!!
Stu
Non-league clubs, by and large, are governed by different rules to clubs in the Premiership or Football League when it comes to registering youth players. The professional clubs can offer young players apprentice or YTS forms (a few non-league clubs also run YTS schemes) but non-League sides can not do this and no club can give contracts to anyone under 18 and in full-time education. Furthermore, the pro clubs are allowed to offer youngsters schoolboy forms.
This distinction means that non-league clubs often face difficulties in trying to keep hold of their best young players.
Athletic, delightful, technically breathtaking. That is how I would like to start an account on a United match this season, the only joyous moment was the half time rollicking the Purfleet team got from the manager! His berating of his team could be heard from the touchline by bemused Sutton fans.
The first half started with Purfleet having two excellent chances that was wasted. Sutton then took control of the game with some steady pressure, yet they rarely troubled the home keeper. The opening goal came after 27 minutes when the tireless Howarth blocked an attempted clearance, the loose ball spins towards the home goal were Akuomoah could not fail to score.
Purfleet got their equaliser in the second half with a fine strike from thirty yards. The performance by both teams in the second half was poor, but I guess that most United fans would have settled for the point before the game.
A win on Saturday against the Struggling Heybridge is vital if the slow move up the table is to continue!
If you can't make the game at Hendon you can call 07903904446 for an up date during or after the game. This will apply to all games, provided I attend!
Sutton have released Dante Alighieri and Damian Panter
The talented youth side play at Plymouth on Wednesday 24th Oct winners away to Cardiff or Aldershot!
FA Cup Trivia
Plymouth trip operates on same rules as a FA Cup/Trophy tie. Away team arranges its own travel Away team can put in an expenses claim at the rate of £2 per coach mile, up to the actual cost incurred (often more than £2 mile though) or 2nd class railfares if travel by train. Claim is paid out from gate receipts after deductions for referee, linesmen, floodlights, etc Balance is then split between the two clubs, although in later stages of the FA Cup the FA gets a hefty share.
In the Youth Cup, the gate receipts often do not cover all of the expenses, so the two clubs "share the loss". I do not expect the gate at Plymouth to be high enough to meet our costs. (We will also have to feed our players, and we can't claim for that)
For information, the U's will approach the trip in the same way as a FA Cup-tie. Early start, in luxury coach (wc, drinks, video) with a mid-afternoon lunch stop (beans on toast), aiming to arrive 1-1.5 hours before kick off.
The Sutton United youth team won 4-1 away to Welling last night (Wednesday) scorers Bailey 2, Innes, Bridgeman and will now be away to Plymouth Arg in 1st Round proper.
Previously the U's won away to Lordswood and then Gravesend & Northfleet
Well, it took a little longer than we hoped but the new snack bar, now officially known as Rose's Tea Bar, finally opened for business for the FA Cup visit of Eastleigh. As well as a new hut, we have installed a brand new cooker, freezer and fridges and reserve team boss Phil Dunne has laid a sturdy concrete platform in front of the hut. It is our intention to add a canopy as well, to keep the queue dry when it's raining.
The electricians let us down again last week, but they promise that the speaker over the Club Shop will be live for the visit of Aldershot and that the lights to the toilet block will be re-instated (the cable has been cut through).
The enhancements to the pitch drainage have now been completed as well, and certainly got a thorough testing during the Eastleigh game. Let's hope that this will cut down on the number of postponements we experienced last season. One problem we have yet to solve is a burst pipe under the pitch, which we think may be the responsibility of the water company. Hopefully this won't cause us too many problems.
We are looking at ways to refurbish the Players' Bar, and there are one or two other jobs we would like to undertake next summer. But we have to prioritise. I think we made a good start with the new floodlights and hopefully we can continue to upgrade the ground over the next few years. Another two or three wins in the FA Cup would be most welcome, for many reasons !
Dave Farebrother
The U's have completed the signing of 25 year old Michael Mison from St Albans for a four figure fee. Mison who has impressed the Sutton fans in the pre-season friendlies joins the squad for Braintree this Saturday. Below is the likely squad!
Martini, Brooker, Arkwright, Boothe, Taylor, Palmer R, Mison, Corbett, Palmer J, Haworth, Fowler, Akuamoah, Dunn, Honey, Ekoku, Timothy
United start the season at Braintree on Saturday. The home side scored an amazing 112 goals in the first division last season, finishing just four points behind the champions Boreham Wood in third place. The player to watch is Robbie Reinelt who was the leading marksman last year in the division with 36. He has scored 5 goals in the pre-season programme.
LAST YEAR
Ave Att 292
Biggest win 10-0
Biggest defeat 5-2
Scored 2.6 per game
Conceded 1.2 per game
The United line up will be getting closer to the one that is expected to start the opening game of the season. A new name in the line up tonight for Sutton could be the midfielder Michael Mison, who played in the Conference for Rushden against Sutton two years ago.
The new PA system should be ready for the game tonight. Speakers are expected in the two covered terraces for the first time.
Sutton 2 Bristol Rovers2
United continue to impress during there pre-season schedule with a fine draw with Bristol Rovers. Mat Fowler continued his excellent form in front of goal with a brace.
Team
Chuck Martini
Danny Brooker (Dave Timothy)
Richard Taylor
Ryan Palmer
Danny Arkwright (Dante Alighieri)
Scott Corbett
Gary Drewett
Chris Boothe
Matt Fowler
Rob Haworth (Frank McCormack)
John Palmer
Meanwhile the reserves won 1-0 (Barry Seal) at Mile Oak.
Gray and Honey are on holiday.
Att:652
The U's used 19 players in their first pre season friendly against Brentford, at GGL. Little can be judged with these fixtures and there were few goalmouth incidences to make this, a game to remember! The first half starting XI was:
1. Tommy Dunn
2.Craig Howard
3.Danny Brooker
4.Danny Arkwright
5.Dante Alighieri
6.Craig Brown
7.Ryan Palmer
8.Chris Boothe
9.Matt Fowler
10.John Palmer
11.Frank McCormack
The second half XI was:
1.Chuck Martini
2.Paul Honey
3.Danny Brooker
4.Martin Dunne
5 Nko Ekoku
6.Damian Panter / LaszloFazekas
7.Ryan Palmer
8.Chris Boothe
9.Dominic Barclay
10.John Palmer/(Craig Brown)
11.Matt Gray
Members should have their letters by now, but, if not, the AGM will take place on Wednesday 18th July in the Vice Presidents' Room. Non members are welcome (provided you join!).
FA Cup 2nd Round Qualifying 29th Sept
Sutton v Chessington & Hook Utd
or Eastleigh or TunbridgeWells or DidcotTown
FA Trophy 1st round 3 November.
Hendon v Sutton United.
2nd round (1st December) round winners v Maidenhead or Northwood
FA Youth Cup 1st Q Round Lordswood v Sutton
In last season's programmes, I outlined the plans that we have for the ongoing development of the Borough Sports Ground, under the banner A Brighter Future. How much we can achieve, and how grandiose any scheme can be, will simply be a function of how much we can afford. Despite the financial difficulties of last season, when the weather caused so many postponements and lost revenue, we decided that we had to bite the bullet this summer and update our floodlights. This meant not only new lights, but also new pylons.
The decision to finally go ahead rested on winning grant-aid from the Football Stadium Improvement Fund and when that was obtained in mid-May, work began almost immediately, although the level of the grant was lower than we had hoped for. The old 8-pylon system has been replaced by a modern, 4-column installation. The columns are hinged, to allow for hydraulic lowering for maintenance and lamp-changing.
The close-season gets shorter every year and with Brentford scheduled to visit on 13th July, there was only an 8-week window in which to complete the work. I am pleased to say that the contractors, Abacus Lighting, have been excellent and - fingers crossed - the work should be finished with all of ONE DAY to spare !
Also, dismantling the pylons meant taking down our public address speakers. We haven't been able to re-instate the system while the floodlighting contractors were working on site so, for the Brentford visit, we will use a temporary system. However, this has given us the opportunity to re-position some of the speakers and we hope to be able to improve audibility to all sections of the ground.
Now for a few technical details. The new lights should provide an average lighting level of about 350 Lux. Our old lights provided just over 200 Lux, although this fell to about 180 Lux last season when lamps failed and we decided that it would be a waste of money to replace them. The current Conference requirement is 250 Lux. Also, the lamps have an estimated lifetime of 4000 hours, which means in theory that we could go 20 years without changing a lamp ! In reality, we anticipate a 4 or 5 year cycle. So this really is a brighter future !
We also received a very generous grant towards enhanced pitch drainage but this work will not be completed for a month or two. We hope that this will go a long way to help reduce the number of postponed games here.
With the invaluable help of a volunteer working party, Rose's Tea Bar was demolished in the summer. The replacement building is a portacabin, but we intend to fit it out to a high standard. It is not quite in place yet, so please accept my apologies that there will not be a snack bar on the Collingwood Rec. side for the Brentford game. We hope to have a mobile unit available for the remaining friendlies and plan to have the new tea bar ready for the league season.
Finally, even if it is only to lend a hand with painting or general tidying up, we would welcome new volunteer helpers. E-mail this web-site and the message will be passed on to me.
Regards
Dave Farebrother
Club Secretary
The solution to the Mile Oak/Carshalton dilemma is that the first team will play away to Mile Oak. This is a long-standing commitment to honour their anniversary celebrations (contact is former SU player and director Reg Walker).
We expect that a new date will be arranged once they have appointed a manager.
There has been a lot of talk on the chat page on the ground improvements. Unfortunately the only work being done during the close season are the new floodlights (work starts this Monday (25 July)and will take two weeks). Seeding and drainage, some of the drainage works will take place during the early part of the season.
The removal of the old tea hut, to be replaced by a portacabin.
One other job is the installation of a ladies portaloo, this could take some time, as it is not a priority.
Other minor tasks are painting and cleaning.
The seats and fencing will not be done, although it has been earmarked for the future. The fencing will cost £30,000.
Work has started on the ground improvements.
The club has received over £53,000 to replace the floodlights and install a new pitch drainage system.
The cash has come from the Football Stadia Improvements Fund, an organisation set up to ensure all of the country's grounds are safe and secure and in the best condition for footballers to play on.
Their cash comes from Sports England, the Football Association and the Premiership.
The new drainage system should improve the quality of the football at the ground, where the pitch has been prone to cut up badly during spells of winter rain.
The youth team won the Surrey u-18 cup on Thursday 17th, beating Colliers Wood 3-0 at Chipstead. That makes it three wins in successive years.
This year has been a memorable season for Sutton United Under 10s who play in Division 1 of the Epsom & Ewell League on Saturdays and in Division 1 of the West Surrey Boys League on Sundays.
The Sunday team currently lie in third position and the
Saturday team have achieved a league and cup double. Having beaten Bookham Colts 6-1 to win the League Cup, they also won their last five league games of the season to claim the league title from closest rivals Cheam Town.
Helpers are needed for essential groundwork. The work will probably take place on Sundays plus a few midweek days for anyone who is retired or on school/college holidays. All of the volunteers to date are retired (except me); so I guess quite a bit will happen midweek.
Times are flexible though, as tasks such as painting will not really need supervision.
Dave needs to talk to all of the volunteers to find out what times suit them best and to outline exactly what he need done and to sort out a programme. Works really needs to be finished by 13th July for tea bar and by early August for portaloo.
Work includes:
Demolish Rose's tea bar. Move portacabin into place as replacement tea bar. External repairs and decoration to new tea bar, including sloping roof and window shutters.
Please contact Dave Farebrother on: 020 8644 4440 (the phone number in the programme was wrong)
Suburban double
The reserves clinched promotion to Suburban League Premier Division on Friday with 1-0 win over Chipstead.
Reserves won League Cup with 2-0 win over Yeading at Colston Avenue (Hastick and Gray[pen])
Taylor leaves United
May 29
Ryman League Division Three club Bracknell Town have announced that Alan Taylor will be their new manager in succession to Clive Tallentire. Taylor spent thirteen years with Farnborough Town, firstly as assistant to Ted Pearce, then as manager in his own right. During his spell in charge at Cherrywood Road, he led the Hampshire club into the Conference.
After leaving Farnborough, Taylor spent a season as manager at Aylesbury United and most recently had acted as a coach for Sutton United. However, Taylor lives in Bracknell, his son Gavin has been a mainstay of the Reserves and the local connection has proved a potent one.
Taylor has an experienced non-League manager in mind to act as his assistant, and the club hope to be in a position to announce his identity in the next few days. There may also be other, relatively minor changes to the club's team management structure as it looks to firstly challenge for promotion next season, and then advance up the Pyramid over the next few years.
Bracknell also has plans for a new stadium at Peacock Farm on the table, and sees the appointment of Taylor as the logical next step in the development of the Club.
(Courtesy of - www.robins.org.uk )
May 26
Dr Martens League Premier Division club Crawley Town have completed the signing of David Harlow from Sutton United.
The 33-year-old former Farnborough Town and England semi-professional international midfielder has signed a one-year contract. He made over 150 appearances for Sutton and was their club captain last season. He joined the U's from Farnborough in 1998 having scored over 50 goals in his four seasons with the Hampshire club. Previous to that he spent six seasons with Kingstonian scoring over 70 goals.
Manager Billy Smith added “He is a good experienced player who spent many seasons playing in the Conference. He is a goal maker and an organiser and I hope he will be the missing link that we have been looking for in midfield”. Harlow arrives at the Broadfield Stadium as two leave - with Dave Powell having already moved to Welling United and midfielder Mark Hawthorne being somewhat surprisingly released.
(Courtesy of - NL football )
April 27
Sutton United secured their Ryman Premier League future with this stylish win. United might have had a goal inside a minute when Frank McCormack, whose display in his first start of the season suggested he has been underused, crossed for Rob Haworth to power in a header that was turned over by Gary Phillips.
After a goalless first half, Sutton took the lead five minutes after the break when Paul Whitmarsh smashed the ball in at the far post.
The away side doubled their advantage on the hour with a glorious goal. Whitmarsh characteristically battled hard to win possession before Bob Haworth rose to head home. Whitmarsh should have added a third but headed over from a corner.
Sutton introduced Danny Bolt and Matt Gray just moments before Chesham were reduced to 10 men in bizarre circumstances. Haworth and Jason Court were tussling for the ball by the corner flag when Court floored the striker. Referee Gary Young waved play on, but Courts reaction to comments from the vocal away support earned him the red card.
Victory was sealed a minute from time when Gray latched onto Bolts pass and kept his cool before driving the ball in off the post.
He said "Frank has performed well in the last two games and scored a deserved goal on Tuesday". The U's have just two more games after Saturday. Taylor said, "Our aim after the Enfield game will be to assess the situation and plan for a title challenge next season".
United are waiting to see if Rob Howarth (dead leg) will be fit for the game against Maidenhead on Saturday. The U's should see the return of Paul Honey (England schoolboys) and Nko Ekoku (suspension). You can see can also see Sutton's reserves play Crawley in the Suburban League cup semi-final at 6.30pm.
30 March
United play Billericay Town this Saturday. With relegation a possibility only a win will satisfy the fans and players alike.
Scoring goals is not the problem, it is the defence that is the concern for the management team, with Danny Brooker hopefully returning things can only improve!
Danny Bolt has asked the United fans not to blame the manager for the poor form."John is trying to build a side and my advise to the fans is don't blame him blame us.
We are well paid by the club to win matches and we are not doing that at the moment."
With 12 games left this season, Bolt says his team could get sucked into the relegation battle if they are not careful
"I care about Sutton and I want us to do well. That is why I joined. I want to win things.
There are 12 games left and the target is to win them all.
15 March
Ralph Carr, a director and former player, manager and secretary of Sutton United has died at the age of 88. He joined the club in 1934 and made over 200 appearances as a keeper during the next 17 years. He also won an international cap after playing for England’s Amateur side against France in the 1947/8 season. He briefly managed United before helping to oversee the building of the main stand. He was secretary of the club for two spells, finally relinquishing the post in 1990. However he remained a director and performed a number of jobs right up to his death.
His funeral will be at All Saints Church in Banstead on Monday 19th March at 2pm. At the request of the family any donations in lieu of flowers should be made to the club’s Floodlight Fund.
March 14
SLOUGH TOWN 4 SUTTON UNITED 4
Purists might not have thought much of some of the defending, but the vast majority at Wexham Park on Saturday will have thoroughly enjoyed this fluctuating and highly entertaining Ryman League clash.
A draw was probably a fair result as, having looked on the way to a hammering when 3-1 down at half time, Sutton stormed back in the second half and seemed likely winners when Paul Whitmarsh's second goal of the game put them ahead with nine minutes left, but an immediate reply from Slough substitute Mark Hall tied things up again before both sides came close to a dramatic late winner.
Sutton had the lead after twelve minutes, against the run of play as Rob Haworth's persistence led to Whitmarsh crossing from the right, and when the ball eluded the home defence Nko Ekoku came in at the far post to score. Slough continued to be the better side, though, and levelled in the 21st minute as former Sutton striker Junior Haynes was given space to collect a crossfield pass on the left and fire in a low shot which Tommy Dunn could only parry, and Dwight Marshall hammered in the rebound.
A minute later came a carbon copy as another Haynes shot from the same position was spilled by Dunn, but this time Marshall couldnt turn in the rebound and Richard Horner's challenge denied Paul Holsgrove. It was a brief reprieve, though, as the corner was headed out only as far as Gary Cross, whose volley clipped Haworth's heel on the way to wrongfoot Dunn. Eight minutes before the break Cross was allowed to cut in unchallenged from the right before slipping a pass through to Marshall, who buried a low cross shot in to the corner of the net and give Slough a commanding half time position.
The second half was a completely different story as Sutton came out with all guns blazing. Whitmarsh had a shot saved by Steve Mautone following a corner, but then Danny Bolt converted a penalty against his former club after another left wing corner had led to Holsgrove handling as Ekoku's header bounced across goal. U's should have been level two minutes later when Haworth bundled the ball in after more good work by Ekoku on the left, only for assistant referee Tony King to signal a handball even though Haworth seemed to put the ball in with his thigh. It wasn't an expensive decision, though, because the equaliser came before the hour mark. A Slough attack broke up and Sutton countered with a crisp exchange which saw Bolt release Whitmarsh, and although he shot straight at Mautone as the keeper came out, he seized on the rebound and converted a much more difficult chance as he shot past two covering defenders from an angle.
From then it was anyone's game, with Slough battling back from the shock of seeing their lead evaporate so quickly and Dunn tipping over a well judged chip from Dave Timothy, but Sutton always looked capable of scoring again, particularly when Ekoku had possession in attacking positions, and with nine minutes he helped create what could have been the winner when he beat the defence on the left and sent in a cross which was headed out but only to Whitmarsh, who volleyed in through a crowd of players. U's joy was short-lived, though, as Hall turned inside after receiving a throw-in on the right and fired a low shot from 20 yards in to the bottom far corner. Even then either side could have won as Ekoku headed wide from Bolt's corner at close range, and then Steve Daly came in on a free kick at the far post and powered in a header which was deflected inches wide.
Slough: Mautone, Cross, Timothy, Daly, Townley, Stott, Barrowcliff, Wilkinson(Hall 51), Marshall, Haynes(Markman 73), Holsgrove. Sub n/u Coombs
Sutton: Dunn, Howard, Horner, Baker, Palmer, Harlow, Bolt, Boothe, Whitmarsh, Haworth, Ekoku. Subs n/u Gray, McCormack, Honey.
Referee: P Armstrong Attendance: 556
By.Tony Dolbear
March 6
Sutton United stalwart Andy Riley has ruled out a permanent move back to Gander Green Lane. The 38-year-old defender quit the game at the start of the season, but was persuaded to make an emotional return in Tuesdays 3-2 home defeat by Chesham. But Riley insists his mind is made up.
I have no plans to return to the game, he said. I only agreed to play the other night because John Rains was a bit short of players in defence. He wanted me to help the youngsters, like Matt Gray, Neil Baker, Tommy Dunn and Ryan Palmer. They are very inexperienced and I played to help them. I had a good response from everyone and I enjoyed the night.
Riley, who helped Sutton win the Ryman League Premier Division title two seasons ago, says he now plans to do other things away from the game. I have retired from football and want to spend time with the family and go down to the coast in my caravan, he said.
But Riley admits he has been asked by Sutton manger John Rains to play in his sides game with basement-boys Dulwich. That is something I havent told the wife, said Riley. I really dont know whats going to happen. I should be inside with my pipe and slippers, not playing on a Saturday.
But because I am too nice to managers, I probably will. If he does, Riley may well be ushered into the centre of defence, because Richard Horner (eye socket), Gareth Howells (groin), Neil Baker (neck) and Stuart Hammonds (broken leg) are all ruled out.
Sutton have picked up only seven points from the last 33 available, but despite their bad run, Riley says the future looks bright.
With the injuries and young players in the side at the moment, they can only get better. Its a case of building for next year.
Sutton Comet
FA will put Ryman plan on hold
20 February
THE Ryman League's plans to bring themselves into line with Football Association wishes to give all clubs an equal chance of progress through the non-League pyramid appear to have been scuppered - by the FA themselves.
The league had hoped to kick off next season with two regional divisions of equal standing beneath the Premier Division. Member clubs voted in December by an overwhelming majority to scrap the existing set-up of four progressional divisions.
But a full meeting of the FA next month looks certain to approve a recommendation from their own sanctions and registrations committee to withhold approval until the 2002-03 season. Alan Turvey, the Ryman League chairman, said: "It's pleasing the committee approved the principle but a matter of regret the changes must wait until 2002 which is against the wishes of the majority of clubs."
Daily Telegraph
14 February
..Richard Thompson has been released and is going to Dulwich. Wescott will not be returning and is likely to stay with Langley Sports, and the latest club to be interested in Harford is Margate!
13 February
Influential Sutton midfielder Paul Harford is looking to quit the club after nearly three years at Gander Green Lane.
Harford, who was part of the clubs Ryman League Premier Division title-winning side in 1998/99, says a change of club might do him good.
I am feeling stale at the moment, said the 26-year-old. Things on the pitch recently have been disappointing.
I have spoken to the man-ager and he understands the situation. I am unhappy and think I need a change.
Appetite
Harford has started most of Uniteds matches this season, but revealed he will miss the next two league games.
I need a break, he said. I need to get my appetite back. Not being in the cups or in contention in the league has been disappointing. Manager John Rains, who granted the transfer request, acknowledged Harfords form had suffered in recent games.
He has been consistently our best player in the first 18 games of the season, but in the last two or three he has been one of our worst, said Rains. He is on the transfer list at his own request and we will see what transpires from here.
We would require a fee for Paul if someone came in for him.
Sutton face a difficult time in the league over the next three days. Tomorrow they are at high-flying Hampton and then on Tuesday travel to Essex to face FA Cup giant-killers Canvey Island.
These are two very big games, said Rains. Hampton are doing very well. They are not a bad side and score a lot of goals same as Canvey. We have to get back into a routine, because missing so many games has put us back.
There are 22 games and the Surrey Senior Cup still to play, which means we only have one spare Tuesday.
Spark
Sutton have been boosted by the arrival of Rob Haworth from Conference side Dagenham. Haworth should spark life into the United squad, who have won only one league game in the last five.
* Tony Rains is back in football. The former Sutton coach and Carshalton manager is now coaching at struggling Dulwich Hamlet. Sutton Guardian
8 February
Sutton's remaining chance for silverware this season will be in the Surrey Senior Cup, after the shock exit at Uxbridge in the league cup on Tuesday night.
United go to Whytleafe on Tuesday 20 February in the next round of the SSC.
We will be up against a few ex United players, Nigel Golley, Gary Elliot, Stuart Massey, Phil (Chainsaw) Dawson and Steve Lunn have all played in the United colours in recent years.
Lee Richardson is the manager he succeeded Paul Hinshelwood as Manager in August 1994. Richardson has played and been involved with the Leafe since the mid 70's, playing in excess of 400 games for the club.
Directions to Church Road
7 February
Paul Harford has probable played his last game for the club. Rumour has it he is about to join a local DR Martens club in the Gatwick area!
5 February
It has been announced Paul has been placed on the transfer list at his own request. Aged 26, he is highly versatile and is equally at home in defence or midfield.
His form has dipped recently, however he is a talented player and will be missed by the club and fans.
5 February
As predicted on this page back in December, Rob Haworh has joined United for a nominal fee. He completed his permanent transfer from Dagenham & Redbridge this weekend.
PROFILE
Rob Haworth, was signed by Dagenham during the close season from St Albans City. A 6 foot 3 inch centre forward, Rob spent four seasons at Clarence Park after also playing for Fulham, Millwall, Kettering Town and Aylesbury United. Rob made an immediate impact for his new Club scoring in his first game, a friendly against Leyton Orient on July 20th. Rob had joined Sutton on a month's loan in October.
31 January
The United defender broke his leg during a Sunday park game. A work colleague remarked,"Stu has broken his tibia (shinbone); it is a bad break but Stu being a fit young lad it should heal quickly and well.
He currently has his whole leg in plaster, but in 2 -3 week's time they will reduce that to a half leg plaster which obviously will facilitate him getting around.
As you can imagine he is feeling pretty cross and sorry for himself at the moment, but his Mum is taking good care of him!"
25 January
United are hoping their poor form will come to an end this weekend against Purfleet.
With new signing Paul Whitmarsh on board the club having again been busy recruiting players, signing Harrow midfielder Frank McCormack.
Taylor said "I havent seen him play. From what I have heard he was here last season and has played in the last two reserve games.
He should be a good acquisition to the squad.
We are always looking to improve and having him at the club keeps the players on their toes".
Manager John Rains could be missing Neil Baker with a grumbling appendix problem and Nko Ekoku with a hamstring injury.
January 18
Just when it seemed as though Sutton were heading for a frustrating defeat at Gander Green Lane on Saturday, Danny Bolt came up with a free kick of terrific quality to ensure that they picked up at least something for their efforts.
It would have been harsh on United to have lost.
But for visiting goalkeeper Darren Bonfield they would probably have won with a bit to spare and Paul Whitmarsh would have celebrated his debut with a hat trick.
Whitmarsh had a fine game, but five times the goalkeeper produced good saves to deny him even the one goal.
The first came after just nine minutes as Whitmarsh announced himself to United supporters by holding off the attentions of two defenders and hitting a volley from 20 yards that Bonfield beat away for a corner.
Ian Scott threw the ball away to pick up the afternoons only yellow card.
Hitchin might have scored within 10 seconds of the restart as Nathan Lameys shot produced a sharp save.
Almost immediately Whitmarsh dispossessed the dawdling Allpress and fired in a shot that was pushed away, and twice more in the next 10 minutes Bonfield reacted well to deny Uniteds recent signing.
At the other end Stuart Hammonds saw his interception of Matt Nolans pass clip the outside of the post after wrongfooting Gareth Howells, but Hitchin broke through 11 minutes in to the second half with Adam Parkers powerful header from a right wing corner.
After that Bonfield looked likely to earn his side the points as he somehow kept out a stinging Whitmarsh volley from Dave Harlows good deep cross, and a minute later saved a low Paul Harford effort after Whitmarsh had teed the ball up.
With six minutes left Whitmarsh was bundled over 20 yards out, and Bolt produced a fantastic free kick, curled over the wall and inside the near post.
Even then it might not have been enough. Hitchin substitute Cliff Akurang had been on the pitch just two minutes when he unleashed a 25 yard shot that goalkeeper Howells could only parry, but Hammonds reacted well to clear the rebound. Sutton Guardian
15 January
Frank McCormack a midfielder joined Sutton last week.
Age 21. Wide midfield player.
Joined Harrow in August following a season with St Albans City. Originally joined Harrow in March 1998 from Harwich & Parkeston. Previously played for Colchester United, Wimbledon & Chelsea. Had a loan period with United last year
January 9
Letters page in the Sutton Guardian
Your correspondent asks where is the support for Carshalton Athletic FC?
As president of Sutton United I can assure you that all of us have the deepest sympathy with our friends the Robins in their present troubles, but how dare Mr Hamond say that Sutton Council is more concerned about the welfare of Sutton United.
Over the years Sutton United have spent thousands in transforming a field, donated to the council by Sir Frederick Wall on condition that it remained a sports field, into a very fine asset.
When was the last time you think the council showed any tangible support for Sutton United, and what form did it take?
ANDREW W LETTS
President
SUFC
January 6
Farnborough Town 2 Sutton United 1
Scorers: Boothe 23 (0-1), Piper 24 (1-1), Piper 71 (2-1)
Attendance: 781
January 5
Paul Whitmarsh joined United on a free transfer from Welling this week. The Sutton manager has been keen to sign the player for some time.
The Welling manager Reynolds had a long chat with Whitmarsh last Thursday before agreeing that he could move to Sutton United. "I wish him well, and hope that he will be happy at his new club". From the Bexley News Shopper
December 21
Sutton United manager John Rains says it is unlikely that brother Tony will be returning to Gander Green Lane. Rains, who saw his brother leave Sutton in the summer to join the Colston Avenue outfit, had mixed feelings on the situation. He said: It is a case of yes and no. Yes I would like him back because he is family and we have done well in football. On the other hand I dont want him to come back to the club, where I could only offer him a menial task.
Contact has been made between the brothers, but only on a personal level. He added: I have spoken to Tony, but not about Carshalton. It is nothing at all to do with me. In the immediate future there is nothing on the coaching side which is on offer. Tony is always welcome back here and if he wants to get involved then he can. Sutton face a difficult Christmas fixture schedule at home to Heybridge on Saturday and away at Carshalton on Boxing Day.
These games are very important, said Rains. Heybridge are in fourth place and are going well. Having lost last Saturday we are looking to get back to winning ways, but it wont be easy. And Rains is refusing to take victory in the Sutton Comet-sponsored derby at Carshalton for granted. He added: Local derbies could go either way. They are not in good form, but we have to play well to win.SUTTON COMET
19 December
United are still interested in signing Haworth. Prediction, the striker will join us in the New Year.
17 December
Now we know what it is like! A goal by Gorman in the last minute deprived United of a draw that was the very least they deserved. After a slow start United dominated the second half, but poor finishing let them down.
6 December
The Boxing day derby with Carshalton will kick off at 12:00, the Grays game has been brought forward from New Years Day to 30 December,and the games against Dulwich(SSCup-30 Jan),Hitchin (13 Feb),Chesham(27 Feb),and Harrow (20 March) have now been arranged.
1 December
Rob Haworth returned to Dagenham after his successful loan period with the U's, John Rains said, "I was very keen to sign him long term, and I believe he was very keen to join us. He is however contracted to Dagenham and we can only continue to monitor the situation, if he came available, I would be delighted to sign him".
Andy Riley set of for Australia on Thursday, he will be away for six weeks as planned, but we look forward to welcome him back in the New Year.
27 November
United are without a game this Saturday (2nd Dec), the next home game is on Tuesday 5th, against Croydon, in the Surrey Senior Cup.
Sutton are hosting Surrey Youth v Lancashire Youth on Saturday (we supply about a third of the Surrey squad).
24 November
John Westcott, who has struggled to get a regular spot in the United side, has joined Dr Martens team Langley Sports on a month's loan.
Sutton's home game with Hitchin has been rearanged for Tuesday February 13. A date for the Surrey Senior Cup clash with Dulwich has also been announced, it will be played on Tuesday January 30
20 November
Danny Bolt struck twice in the opening 10 minutes as United beat Maidenhead United 2-0 at York Road. Sutton’s fourth successive win moved them into fourth place in the Premier Division.
Former United striker Mark Watson will be returning to Gander Green Lane on Saturday with his new club Chesham United.
13 November
A 1-0 win at home to fourth in the table Farnborough Town consolidated Sutton United’s 5th place. Danny Bolt scored the only goal of the game on the hour.
27 October
Win was so vital Saturday's win over Billericay was just what we needed after losing our last two games in the league and cup.
We came back well to win that game after the bad performances against Bath and Dulwich.
At Bath we prepared properly, had a pre-match meal, but just didn't perform on the day.
I felt that had we scored in the first few minutes when Scott Forrester missed a chance we could have gone on and done well.
It didn't and that probably cost us the game, because if that had gone in our confidence might have grown.
Having Paul Harford sent off didn't help, but we were second best and deserved to lose the game.
That came on the back of a disappointing display at Dulwich, who were bottom of the league at the time.
We play another side needing points when we face Croydon tomorrow. The players aim to put in a good performance which will help us to keep winning.
Only nine points separates us from Canvey Island, who are top of the Ryman Premier table.
We are a new side and if we can keep picking up points until Christmas, then who knows.
Personally after being in and out of the side it was good to play well and score the fifth goal against Billericay.
I have played 11 games, scored five goals and set up eight or nine. I didn't play well against Gravesend or Purfleet and was out of the side, because the manager wanted to tighten up the midfield. Now I am back in the team I aim to keep playing well and hopefully Sutton will climb up the league and be there at the end of the season. But we are taking each game as it comes and will continue to take that approach. Danny Bolt, the Sutton United winger, was talking to Russell Young.
27 October
Sutton boss John Rains has urged his players to build on last Saturday's empathic 5-0 win at Billericay. The men from Gander Green Lane entertain struggling Croydon in the Ryman Premier tomorrow (3pm)
Rains is expecting a better performance from his players, unlike the recent lacklustre show against Dulwich.
He said: "We hope to play like we did last Saturday.
"It was a very, very good performance. If we can play as well as that we should do well."
The Sutton boss, whose men sit nine points behind leaders Canvey, in sixth place, is still upset by the display at Dulwich's Champion Hill Stadium.
He added: "We didn't play well. They had a man sent off and their 10 men deserved to win.
"We mustn't relax like that. If we compete with Croydon, then we should win because we have the better skill level."
Rains' only absentee for the game is Paul Harford, who serves the first of a three game ban, after his sending off at Bath City.
The Sutton boss has released full-back Andy Walker, who has rejoined former club Hampton & Richmond.
Rains added: "It was a case of a budgetary decision. As much as I would have liked to have 20 players in the squad, I couldn't do that.
"Having five players in the reserves isn't for that purpose and that is why I decided to let him go. "
27 October
Spurred on by a sense of injustice after the penalty award which saw Staines take a 2-0 lead early in the second half, Sutton refused to accept defeat in Tuesday night's Full Members' Cup tie at Wheatsheaf Lane, In the 16th minute Staines went in front when Derek Walters scored 30 yards. A second half penalty award incensed United when Shaun Thurgood was adjudged to have fouled Tim Sills.
Nko Ekoku, Danny Bolt and Gareth Howells were all booked for their protests and Steve Talboys netted the penalty.
In the 69th minute U's began the fightback as Paul Harford headed Bolt's corner powerfully in. Four minutes later Butler made it 3-1 but immediately Ryan Palmer came forward to hit a skimming 25 yarder into the net.
Thompson was then fouled by Talboys and Bolt's penalty sent the game in to extra time. Within two minutes Staines had once more gone in front when Craig Reilly's miscued shot fell nicely for Sills, who looked yards offside as he shot past Howells.
But Harford made it 4-4 when he rose at the far post to head in Bolt's corner.
In the penalty shoot out, the first five takers on each side all scored.
Boothe converted the first of the sudden death kicks for Sutton before Staines' Hayward put his effort far too close to Howells, sending United through. Sutton's other successful spot kicks were taken by Harlow, Panter, Thompson, Harford and Bolt.
27 October
Billericay town 0 - Sutton United 5 Sutton produced a startling return to form on Saturday to inflict a huge defeat on Billericay, who were unbeaten in the league at home this season.
Billericay must have fancied their chances even more when the Sutton players scrambled in to the New Lodge ground barely 10 minutes before the scheduled kick off after being caught in heavy traffic.
United welcomed back Ryan Palmer after suspension and gave a debut to loaned 24-year-old striker Rob Haworth.
Sutton supporters could have been forgiven for thinking there was another new signing playing until they realised the severity of Stuart Hammonds' haircut.
Hammonds formed an impressive defensive unit with Palmer and Chris Boothe, with the latter further enhancing his performance when he headed United into an eighth minute lead from a Dave Harlow corner that Paul Harford headed on.
In the 17th minute home keeper Gavin King failed to hold a low shot from Danny Bolt and Richard Thompson turned the rebound over the line.
It was far from one way traffic. Gareth Howells produced a brilliant save to keep out a Richard Dunwell shot that was heading for the top corner.
The value of that save was shown in dramatic fashion three minutes later when Howells' opposite number King came outside his area to clear from Haworth but only succeeded in finding Harlow, who returned the ball from all of 40 yards in to the net over the despairing King.
It was 4-0 six minutes after the restart when Thompson headed Bolt's free kick in from close range.
Sutton took the chance to give their substitutes a run out, and one of them, Scott Forrester, almost scored with his first touch, but his looping header was tipped over by King. Damian Panter was another arrival, and with three minutes left he set Bolt up to send in a low shot from 20 yards that caught King unsighted and nestled in the bottom corner of the net.
Sutton at home at last!
26 October
Sutton play Croydon at home in the next round of the league cup.
Full draw
Second Round Aylesbury Utd v Oxford City
Basingstoke Town v Whyteleafe
Bromley v Slough Town
Chesham United v Braintree Town
Dulwich Hamlet v Walton & Hersham
Gravesend & Northfleet v Ford United
Grays Athletic v Bishops Stortford
Heybridge Swifts v Hendon
Maidenhead United v Leatherhead
Northwood v St Albans City
Purfleet v Canvey Island
Romford v Barton Rovers
Sutton Utd v Croydon
Wealdstone v Hitchin Town
Worthing v Bognor Regis Town
Yeading v Uxbridge
24 October
Joe Nartey is the latest player to leave the club, he joins Danny Hodges who left for Farnborugh and Michael Mahoney-Johnson who has returned to Ireland.
12 Oct
I have watched them twice and know they will be a side that will cause us problems," he said. "Hopefully, if we can play well, we will pose more problems for them than they will for us." Rains is looking forward to the game, but expresses an air of caution when talking about progressing further in the competition. "It is important for all clubs to go on a run in the FA cup," said Rains. "After this, it's the fourth qualifying round. Once that is past, there is a chance to play one of the big guns in the next round. "It is important we go into the game and produce a better display than we did at Dulwich last week." Gareth Howells returns to the Sutton line up for the first time in four weeks, following a groin injury. "We thought it was important that Gareth rested the injury," said Rains. "He could have played on, but that would have made it worse. The injury is better and he is ready for Saturday."
Rains has a full squad at his disposal, bar Danny Hodges (calf injury) and Ryan Palmer (suspension). What the Sutton boss is willing his side to do is play well in the cup and then carry that form on into their league encounters.
"I am hoping that from now on that we show more consistency," he said. "That is what we have to do if we are to be challenging for the title. "We didn't play well at Dulwich, but the lack of consistency is down to the fact that we have a new, young and inexperienced side."
4 October
Sutton travel to Bath City in the next round of the FA cup. The tie will be at Twerton Park on Saturday 14 October.
4 October
Joe Nartey and Andy Salako returned to action in the reserves 4-1 home defeat against Crawley. Damien Panter and Ryan Gray joined them in the disappointing performance.
28 September
Paul Newell who missed Sutton's victory at St Albans due to his wife having a baby, should be back in the United goal for the coming FA Cup match at Littlehampton on Saturday.
He currently on a loan, for one month with Sutton.
22 September
Sutton continued their run of one defeat in nine Ryman league games with back-to back draws this week.
After their last-gasp 2-2 draw with Purfleet last Saturday, Sutton went into their home game with Slough on Tuesday looking for three points.
New signings Ben Hodgson from Hayes, Paul Newell (Billericay) and Chris Booth (Chesham) all made their debuts and the signs look good.
After dominating the game, Sutton found themselves a goal down on the half-hour, when Damien Martin's cross was nudged in by Andy Deaner.
That prompted John Rains' men to push forward and Dave Harlow, Paul Sears and Paul Harford all went close.
With six minutes of the match remaining, Sutton drew level. Substitute Danny Bolt swung over a cross and Hodgson slotted the ball into an empty net.
Sutton know they will have to convert those draws into wins if they are to push for the championship.
Rains' men left it late again last Saturday, when they drew 2-2 with Purfleet at Gander Green Lane.
Former Basingstoke striker Paul Coombs gave the Essex men an early lead, but Scott Forrester levelled for Sutton.
However, George Georgio regained the lead for Purfleet on the stroke of half-time. With seconds of the game to go Sutton grabbed themselves a vital leveller, when sub Richard Thompson hit home from close range.
With five draws in nine league games, Sutton have chances coming up to record their first league win since September 2.
They travel to St Albans and Dulwich, and six points would leapfrog them back into the promotion frame.
15 September
Ekoku was cleared last week of a FA misconduct charge arising from a referee's report of his sending off against Dover in May.
At his personal hearing a FA commission decided that from the evidence they were given they were not satisfied that the charge was substantiated, and therefore no further action wood be taken.
Nko had already served a one mach ban for his dismissal for two bookable offences.
14 September
The League will look sympathetically at postponement requests from clubs facing genuine problems obtaining petrol and diesel. No decision has been made about this weekend's games yet but the situation is being monitored. A number of member clubs are involved in the FA Cup this weekend and any decision on the playing or rescheduling of those matches is a matter for the Football Association.
14 September
There are concerns to the availability of at least two members of the Sutton squad for the game on Saturday against Purfleet. John Westcot and Andy Walker both have long journeys from the south-coast for the game.
There is good news! Paul Harford is due back, after blisters forced him off on Saturday against Gravesend. Also Scott Forester made his first appearance of the season for the U's, in their disappointed performance against Corinthian Casuals on Tuesday.
8 September
Sutton United were denied three points by a dramatic Hampton and Richmond equaliser two minutes from the end on Tuesday night.
Danny Bolt's double had appeared to be taking John Rains' men towards another valuable three points, until Derek Simpson struck for the visitors.
Bolt had appeared to have secured the points for Sutton 15 minutes from time when he fired in a free kick.
Hampton had just been reduced to 10 men when Peter Barnsby was sent off for a professional foul on Nko Ekoku.
In the first half, Warren Williams had cancelled out Bolt's first goal.
25 August
David Harlow is expected to return for tomorrows clash with Canvey Island at Gander Green Lane (3pm).
The United team manager John Rains praised the performance of Andy walker who came in for Danny Brooker for the first two matches of the season.
Brooker was injured in pre-season games but is expected to make a return for the game on Saturday.
Scott Forrester is still serving a seven-mach ban and will not be available till late September.
John Rains praised his team's resilience against Aldershot especially as they faced a mainly home crowd of over 2,500.
"Without a number of our players and with a new look team I thought we did well to gain a point. We had fewer options but we hung in there and it was a good result for us."
There are no injuries reported from the opening games and Rains is not expected to make any drastic changes other than recalling Harlow and perhaps Brooker.
Sutton can expect a serious test from Canvey Island who have title ambitions themselves. Canvey recovered from a shock home defeat on Saturday to record a convincing 4-1 win at St Albans
23 August
United cruised to a 2-0 victory over Basingstoke last night. Sutton, who started with six new players making their home league debuts started well with Danny Bolt scoring after 18 minutes, Andy Salako scored number two midway through the second half.
The consensus of the United fans is for the need of a target man up front. With good wing play from both flanks a big man is needed, let us hope the injury to Nartey is not serious.
16 August
The game is expected to attract a bumper crowd of over 3,000 to the Recreation Ground to see both sides do battle. United manager John Rains takes his men to north Hampshire knowing his charges face a physical battle. For Gareth Howells the game tomorrow can't come quickly enough. "It is a game we are really looking forward to. It will be nice to play again," he said. "The morale is high and all the players are looking forward not only to the Aldershot game, but to the new season. "Aldershot will be a tough side, they have brought in several players during the summer. It will be a tough test." Overall, pre-season has been encouraging for Sutton and Rains says everyone is raring to go. He said: "I have quite pleased with our preparations for the coming campaign. "Lets hope we can go into the season with a everyone firing on all cylinders. "So far fitness is good, morale is high and the pre-season went well." Sutton's youngsters also meet Aldershot this Wednesday in the qualifying round of the FA Youth Cup. The game at Gander Green Lane kicks off at (7.45pm) Meanwhile Richard Skelly, has departed the club. The full-back has joined Dr Martens League side Cambridge City. Skelly, 28, had been with Sutton for the past two years and was a regular member of the United's Conference side last term.
Corels Bookmakers as from 11th August 5/2 Sutton United 4/1 Aldershot Town 6/1 Canvey Island 9/1 Purfleet 12/1 Farnborough Town, Chesham United, St Albans 14/1 Gravesend & Northfleet 16/1 Billericay Town, Slough Town 20/1 Basingstoke Town, Dulwich Hamlet 25/1 Enfield 33/1 Heybridge Swifts, Hendon, Hitchin Town 40/1 Hampton & Richmond Borough, Carshalton Athletic 50/1 Harrow Borough, Croydon, Maidenhead United, Grays Athletic
26 July
John Rains has announced that his new No. 2 will be former Farnborough and Aylesbury boss Alan Taylor.
23 July
The following players have been on trial with United over the past few days.
Pace(Forward)
Signed for Tooting in October 1998 from Barton Rovers. Along with Frank Thompson he was a Bedfordshire Senior Cup winner with Barton in 97/98, and has also played for Sliema Wanderers of Malta. Averaged nearly a goal a game in the 98-99 season, form which earned him a trial with Millwall.
S Bassey(Midfield)
Born
London, 5 Feb 1976
A highly promising bustling midfield player, who has bravely returned to full
fitness with intense work after a poor challenge versus
Gravesend & Northfleet ended his 1998/99 season in August. Originally signed
for Aldershot from Carshalton Athletic and started his career as an
apprentice at Charlton Athletic.
J Sugrue(Midfield)
Born
Hammersmith, 1 Jan 1974
A firm favourite with the Aldershot supporters who never gives less than 100%. Originally arrived at the club on loan from Kingstonian in March 1995 and instantly proved a hit. Is now in his second spell at the Recreation Ground and in between Jimmy was part of Hayes' Championship side of 1996 that won promotion to the Conference. Has previously won the Player of the Season Award. Another Shots player who started his career in the professional ranks as an apprentice at Fulham.
J Nartey(Forward)
Born
Ghana, 28 May 1976
Recorded his best return for Aldershot of 29 goals last season including 4 in a loan spell at Billericay Town. Set a club record of scoring 5 goals in a match in the 8-0 win at Bishop's Stortford in September 1998 and scored a further 4 goals against the Hertfordshire side in the 5-0 home victory. Completed 10 goals against Stortford by also netting against them in his loan spell. Arrived at the club from Chertsey Town in March 1998 and also had a successful spell at Hayes when the Middlesex club gained promotion to the Conference in 1996.
22 July
Brentford have completed the signing of U's 18 year old midfielder Ed Hutchinson. The deal totals £75,000 for the player who made only a few appearances for the U's in the Nationwide Conference last season.
He was set to join Luton Town before Lennie Lawrence left Kenilworth Road.
21 July
For United, this will be their second pre-season friendly game in the space of three days (they won 3-2 at Horsham on Thursday).
Rains said: "This is a big game for us. Now that everyone has done their fitness work, the players have the opportunity to play against high-quality opposition.
"We are hoping for a big crowd - everyone is looking forward to the game, and it will give us a good workout."
As for players, Rains is playing his cards very close to his chest as he looks to replace the departed Sam Winston, Barry Laker, Mark Watson and Andy Riley.
He added: "I am looking to add three or four, and we should have some more news in the next week or so."
So far only Danny Bolt (Woking) has signed on the dotted line, but it is rumoured that Aldershot winger Jimmy Segrue, who has been training at Gander Green Lane, will be the next new face.
18 July
It has been confirmed that Tony Rains will be taking on the job of first team manager at Carshalton.
John Rains is speaking to his preferred choice for the new No2 and I am told the club will hope to be able to announce something very soon.
5 July
Sutton start with a challenging away game at Aldershot on 19 August, the first home game is on the Tuesday 22 August v Basingstoke
4 July
Sutton came second to Hayes in the Conference programme awards, third place went to Rushden.
All back!
The players report back for training tonight.
4 July
(2nd Q Round, 30 September)
Away v Littlehampton T or Peacehaven & Telscombe or Greenwich Boro or Hythe T
The remaining rounds/dates up to and including the first round are:
3rd Q 14 October
4th Q 28 October
First Round Proper 18 November
FA Umbro Trophy
First Round - 4th November 2000
| Aylesbury United | v | VS Rugby |
| Baldock Town | v | Staines Town |
| Barton Rovers | v | Banbury United |
| Bedford Town | v | Newport County |
| Billericay Town | v | Farnborough Town |
| Bognor Regis Town | v | Whyteleafe |
| Chelmsford City | v | St Albans City |
| Cinderford Town | v | Dulwich Hamlet |
| Crawley Town | v | Heybridge Swifts |
| Dartford | v | Northwood |
| Dorchester Town | v | Boreham Wood |
| Enfield | v | Erith & Belvedere |
| Folkestone Invicta | v | Oxford City |
| Ford United | v | St Leonards |
| Gravesend & Northfleet | v | Hastings Town |
| Grays Athletic | v | Ashford Town |
| Hampton & Richmond Borough | v | Maidenhead United |
| Harlow Town | v | Basingstoke Town |
| Havant & Waterlooville | v | Croydon |
| Hendon | v | Tonbridge Angels |
| Leatherhead | v | Evesham United |
| Newport (IW) | v | Hitchin Town |
| Romford | v | Braintree Town |
| Slough Town | v | Bishop's Stortford |
| Wealdstone | v | Weston Super Mare |
| Welling United | v | Uxbridge |
| WEYMOUTH | v | SUTTON UNITED |
| Wisbech Town | v | Carshalton Athletic |
| Witney Town | v | Harrow Borough |
| Worthing | v | Thame United |
| Yeading | v | Bromley |
Walton & Hersham have a bye
23 June
The AGM of the Sutton United Suppoorters' Club to be held on Tuesday 4th July in the Allders Lounge at 8.00pm
19 June
Bolt, who plays on the left side, will link up with his new team-mates in the first week of July after signing on a free transfer from Woking. Rains was delighted to have captured the flying winger and predicted that he would be a big hit with the Us faithful. He said: "He will give us balance and be a useful weapon on our left side. I am pleased that he has come to us and I look forward to working with him." The Sutton boss is optimistic that he will be able to add more players to the U's squad in time for the big kick off. Former Us favourite Steve Watson and Carshalton defender Matt Elverson are two of the names in the frame to replace Barry Laker and the retired Andy Riley.
16 June
Laker has joined the north Hampshire club on a free transfer after the defender's contract ran out at the end of the season. Rains said: "Barry was offered a very good financial package, and it proved one that we couldn't meet." Laker's departure is the third, following the retirement of veteran defender Andy Riley and the loss to Woking of Mark Watson. Rains said: "It is a fact that we are not one of the highest payers, and it would be wrong to change because we have never been one of the highest anyway. "If it is to do with money then players will not be coming to play for us. Some players will arrive here, but there will be others that will go where the money is - you can't win them all."
15 June
| FA Cup | Round | FA Trophy |
| September 2nd | Preliminary | n/a |
| September 16th | 1st qualifying | n/a |
| September 30th | 2nd qualifying | n/a |
| October 14th | 3rd qualifying | n/a |
| October 28th | 4th qualifying | n/a |
| November 18th | 1st round | November 4th |
| December 9th | 2nd round | December 2nd |
| January 6th | 3rd round | January 13th |
| January 27th | 4th round | February 3rd |
| February 17th | 5th round | February 24th |
| March 10th | 6th round | March 10th |
| April 8th | Semi-final | 1L - March 31st |
| 2L - April 7th | ||
| May 12th | Final | Undecided |
The U's will face a trip to either Clapton or Corinthian Casuals in the second round of the Ryman league cup after this draw was made this week.
12 June
Danny Bolt signed for us yesterday. He was released by Woking at the end of last season having signed a couple of years earlier for £15,000 from Slough. Prior to joining Slough, he played in the Football League for Fulham.
8 June
United were welcomed back into the Suburban League at least night's AGM, and will compete in the Southern Division next season.
2 June
Sutton chairman Barry Elliott has conceded that the club are finding it harder than ever to compete with the top clubs in the non-league game. Having asked manager John Rains to stay at the club, Elliott admits that to win the Ryman Premiership again will be more of a battle this time around. He said: "As a club we do not have a beneficiary who will plough a lot of money into us. We have to do it off our own back.
"John and the players will give it another go, but winning leagues doesn't get any easier, especially when you are a club like us."
Well known outfits with huge financial backing in the Ryman League include St Albans, Canvey, Purfleet, Farnborough and Aldershot.
"We can't compete with these clubs financially. With the area we are in, we don't generate many fans through the turnstiles."said Elliott.
"Instead we have to generate our own money with ideas that will give us the revenue to compete."
On the pitch, Elliott points at the FA Trophy run as a deciding factor on Us' relegation.
He said: "The Trophy was a distraction for the club. This meant that we had a huge glut of fixtures in the final quarter of the season.
"How can any club be expected to play two cup semi finals and ten league games in the space of 36 days."
"It can't be right expecting us to play all those games. I think that we should have played more midweek games earlier in the season to avoid such a hectic schedule."
With Rains at the helm, Elliott is confident that Us can regain their place in the top flight of the conference.
"We must not underestimate the size of the task in hand, many teams will make it hard for us." said Elliot. <
"But I am confident that John (Rains) is the man to lead us in the new campaign. His record is good and I wish him good luck because it will be tough - every league is!".
2 June
Us assistant manager Tony Rains has expressed his delight that Gareth Howells has agreed to stay at the club for the coming season. Howells, 29, has signed a new one year deal and Rains reckons that to have the big keeper back between the sticks will be important for the coming season. Rains said: "It is a boost for us having Gareth back on board. He was a key player in our promotion and was our best player in the Conference."
One player that won't be around Gander Green Lane however is striker Mark Watson, who has joined Conference side Woking on a free transfer under the Bosman ruling.
"We are obviously very disappointed to lose Mark. After having a good season when we went up, he struggled with injuries. For him its a change of scenery and a step back into the Conference."
Having already lose Andy Riley though retirement, Rains and his brother John have drawn up a list of transfer targets they think will launch Sutton back into the Conference.
Rains added: "There are several names in the frame, but like any other club we don't want to give the names or other clubs might come in for them."
With the Rains brothers staying at the club for another term, the Us assistant reckons that they can bounce back into non-leagues elite division first time.
"It was nice that we were asked by the board to stay on at the club. They know the limitations that we had to work to and I think our record over the years is a good one."
18 May
Sutton United have launched a footballing programme that is giving youngsters the opportunity to make it within the professional game. The club are seeking talented 16 to 19 year olds who have come close to a place in a professional club, have been involved in centres of excellence or who have played at county level to sign up on a sports-based FA coaching diploma course. It will include: l 12 hours of football coaching and academic tuition a week.
l One or two-year diploma in sports science
l An opportunity to go to university.
For more information contact John Rains on 01737 557489.
But just as Us were getting into their stride and poised go on a run that would help them survive, along came the FA Trophy. Victories over Salisbury, Canvey and Dover gave the Us a crack at trophy favourites Rushden at Gander Green Lane.
After a 1-1 draw, Us produced the result of the competition so far with a morale-boosting 3-1 success at Nene Park, giving them a two-legged semi-final with neighbours Kingstonian.
But after a 1-1 draw in the home leg with Geoff Chapple's men, United were thrashed 6-0 (7-1 on aggregate)
And league form was always a worry for the Sutton supporters as the side earned only eight points from six games in March.
With at least ten points needed from the last seven games to be safe, tiredness started to play a factor, with three league games in four days.
United, needing at least two wins, lost the lot. In that disastrous spell, Us took over 450 minutes to score a league goal - not exactly the kind of record that spurs optimism.
The final straw was a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Hereford at Edgar Street which typified a season that promised so much early on.
Changes will have to be made if Us are to match the form of the previous season when they won the Ryman league title.
Dack,69 Laker, 22 og Winston,88 Berry, 64 og Att:1422
Pos P W D L F-A Pts 13 Salisbury City 12 5 1 6 20-28 16 RECENT LEAGUE RESULTS H Newport County 1-2 H King's Lynn 2-3 A Tamworth 2-1 A Ilkeston Town 0-6 A Merthyr Tydfil 1-1How to find them.
