September

SEPTEMBER 2005 - NEWS ARCHIVES

Wednesday 28th September 2005

	An early Billy Warner goal gave the Youths a deserved 1-0 win against Bicester Town at the Loop last night - full report in Youths Section of this site.
	Congratulations to First Team manager Stuart Peace who collected his Non-League Club Directory Merit award yesterday at Villa Park. Fantastic achievement and well done.
	The First Team make the relatively short trip to Shrivenham in the League tomorrow, our first visit to the new-look Recreation Ground. Shrivy were promoted to the Premier Division this season and their early season form has been terrific. Beaten only once, by North Leigh, they have gained creditable results against the likes of Witney (0-0) and Wantage (2-2), a stunning 4-1 win at Ardley and capped off with a seven goal demolition of Abingdon Town last Saturday.
	Didcot have suffered two defeat in the past 7 days and Stuart Peace's side will be determined to get back to winning ways whilst protecting an unbeaten start to the League campaign. Paul Powell and Grant Goodall both came through the Floodlit Cup match against Kintbury, and look set to return to the squad after recent injuries, while Bradley Ward will be a doubt with a niggling hamstring problem. And Keeper Chris Webb will be looking for a good result against his home club.
	Diddy supporters may not have visited Shrivy's ground before so directions to the Recreation Ground Shrivenham SN6 8BJ are: Shrivenham village is signposted off the A420 Oxford to Swindon road, six miles east of Swindon, four miles west of Faringdon. Drive through the village and turn into Highworth Road, the ground is on the right, car park on the left. Distance from Didcot is approx 25 miles, taking approx 35 mins.

Wednesday 28th September 2005

Didcot were dumped out of the Floodlit Cup last night with a 3-0 home defeat against Kintbury. Two goals down at half-time, Didcot then saw Paul Bedwell sent-off and Rangers add a third from the resulting free-kick. There was no way back from a 3 goal deficit and Kintbury booked their place in Round 2 without too many scares - good luck to Kintbury in the rest of the competition.

Tuesday 27th September 2005

	Witney United FC have recently launched "Boot out Poverty" an appeal designed to help the under-privileged in Malawi who are desperate to play football. The idea came out about through ex United player Paul Lennon who has now moved out to Malawi to teach and decided to get involved with a local Senior and Junior team. At the first training session he had 30 people turn up and between them they had just 3 pairs of boots. To make matters worse they decided to share so 6 people had one boot each!! Lennon turned to Witney United for help asking for boots, kit, shin pads, training bibs etc as he looked to improve the facilities available. So in a way of helping matters United have launched their "Boot out Poverty" campaign and are collecting any old pairs of football boots and kit at Marriotts Stadium. To top this off they are going to take the box on their travels to away games in the hope that other Hellenic League sides will donate to the cause. The Hellenic League are backing United's initiative and have set the ball rolling by donating an old Hellenic League Rep side's kit. Chairman Steve Lake said of the appeal "This is a great chance to help fellow footballers that are far less privileged than ourselves. My old boots are going in the Boot-Box as I have a feeling they may get more use in Malawi than they currently do sitting in my wardrobe!'
	With us due to play Witney at the Loop on Tuesday 1st November, Didcot Town FC are asking all our players and supporters to bring along any unwanted items of kit to that game for this appeal (BUT don't bring it along before that game - we haven't got the space to store it!). And Well done to Paul and Witney United for their fantastic initiative.
	This evening the First Team are in Floodlit Cup action against Kintbury Rangers at the Loop. Kick-off is 19.45.

Sunday 25th September 2005

	A 2-0 defeat at Braintree yesterday put pay to our FA Cup ambitions for another season but the team emerged with plenty of credit for a battling performance in Essex. Indeed, until the last minute the game was always in the balance and probably superior fitness told in the end. Match details:
	Venue: Cressing Road Stadium, Clockhouse Way, Braintree Date: Saturday 24^th September 2005 Competition: FA Challenge Cup, Second Qualifying Round Score (Home side first): Braintree Town 2–0 Didcot Town Goalscorers: Braintree: Lorraine 69; Revell 90 Attendance: 306 Report: Didcot’s FA Cup dreams went to seed as they were toppled by Braintree Town of the Ryman League Premier Division on Saturday afternoon. Despite the final scoreline appearing to concur with the form book Didcot once again gave a display that indicated they are able to operate higher than their current level. Eventually, superior class and fitness told, but for long periods there was little to choose between the two teams. The opening period was cagey but Didcot created the first opportunity. Ian Concannon picked up possession 30 yards out and executed a chip that had Iron keeper Nick Morgan struggling but it sailed inches over the crossbar. Braintree did not have a clear chance until the 22^nd minute. A corner was only partially dealt with and striker Carl Griffiths was put through but Didcot custodian Chris Webb deflected his effort to safety. Ian Concannon had another chip turned over by Morgan before Braintree stepped up the pressure and carved out three good chances in as many minutes. Griffiths saw his shot just drift wide of the left hand upright, defender Chris Wild headed a ball from a corner over from six yards and Eugene Ofori also failed to keep his header on target as he met an Alex Revell cross. Didcot were looking for the half time break after this barrage but there was still time for Griffiths to fire a blistering shot from 20 yards that Webb was glad to see whistle over. The second half began in the same vein as the first, with the sides cancelling one another out. Revell headed yet another opportunity narrowly over but it was the Railwaymen who almost stunned their hosts by taking the lead. Paul Powell blasted the ball goalwards but a fingertip save from Morgan prevented it from flying into the bottom left corner. Braintree winger Louis Riddle then started asking questions that Didcot’s rearguard ultimately failed to solve. He began by forcing a decent save from Webb, followed it up by flashing a pass across Didcot’s penalty area that Griffith just failed to convert before supplying the opening goal on 69 minutes. His measured cross caught the Didcot defence square and defender Paul Lorraine was on hand to slide the ball in from six yards out. Thereafter Braintree controlled much of the proceedings. Revell hit the outside of the post and Webb again had to make a smart save from Ofori whilst at the other end, Didcot were confined to half chances that Beavon and Heapy were unable to profit from. With time running out and Didcot forced to press forward, the Iron made absolutely sure of their passage into the next round with a second goal. A long punt forward encouraged Webb to come out to clear the danger but Revell beat him to the ball, rounded him with ease and slotted home. Didcot can now turn their attentions to trying to continue the 100% start they have made to their Hellenic League campaign. Braintree enter the third qualifying round draw knowing they are two victories away from a tie in the First Round Proper and possible Football League opposition. Didcot: Webb; Beckett; Bedwell; Campbell; Green (Goodall 75); Parrott; Jack (Ward 65); Heapy; Concannon; Beavon; Powell (Jones 86). Report: Stewart Unsworth

	Stuart Beavon wins this aerial battle yesterday (pic R Neal)
	On Tuesday the First Team are back in action in the Floodlit Cup against Kintbury Rangers. Next Saturday we travel to in-form Shrivenham for a tough looking League match. Shrivy have been beaten only once and thrashed Abingdon Town yesterday. Full preview on-line later in the week.
	The Reserves gained a creditable 1-0 win against Cheltenham Saracens yesterday.

Thursday 22nd September 2005

	Didcot travel to Essex on Saturday to play Ryman Premier side Braintree Town in the 2nd Qualifying Round of the FA Cup.
	For Didcot this is as far as we've ever gone in the Competition. Braintree have gone two steps further on 5 occasions, most recently in season 1997-98. With a sizeable £3750 to the winners of this tie alone, and the chance of another bumper payday in the next round, its clearly a big game for both clubs. Braintree are averaging between 300 and 400 at home and with the Railwaymen likely to take well over 100 spectators a good atmosphere is assured at the Cressing Road Stadium.
	Stuart Peace does have a couple of injury concerns - Grant Goodall and Paul Hannigan are very doubtful although Paul Powell is back in contention after his knee problem.
	For his part, Braintree's manager George Borg told the non-league daily website:" To be honest it is a difficult tie for both sides with quality performers in both line-ups. It will basically be down to who performs better on the day." In conclusion Borg mentioned Didcot have a great cup tradition and are, of course, the present FA Vase holders, but was at pains to point out his side's preparation for this match has been professionally planned.
	Braintree have amongst their ranks striker Carl Griffiths who was playing at Manchester City not too long ago.
	All the match reaction can be found here on Sunday (hangover permitting!)
	A second half goal from Adam Bailey wasn't enough to prevent our Youth Team falling to their first league defeat of the season, 2-1, at Buckingham Athletic last night.

Wednesday 21st September 2005

	Didcot beat Ardley 4-1 last night at the Loop to continue their winning League run. Full report as follows:
	Date: Tuesday 20^th September 2005 Competition: GLS Football Hellenic Premier Division Score (Home side first): Didcot Town 4-1 Ardley Utd Goalscorers: Didcot: Concannon 1 & 90; Green 5; Beavon 46 mins Ardley: Johnson (p) 56 mins Attendance: 250 Report: In the corresponding fixture last season Didcot had hammered Ardley United 8-0 and it looked a case of deja-vu when the home side raced into a two goal lead within five minutes. In the opening attack of the match Patrick Malone won the ball on the left flank and Ian Concannon converted his cross with typical composure at the far post. Within moments Didcot had doubled their advantage. A perfect left foot free-kick from Matty Jack was headed firmly home by defender Dave Green. But there was no chance of history repeating itself as the new-look Ardley were always a threat on the break and in John Curtis they have a striker who will cause defenders problems with his height and neat control. It was Curtis who created a glorious opening for Mark Scanes in the 10^th minute but the usually dependable striker sliced his effort well over and Didcot had been given a real let-off. The home side were still doing most of the running and they had numerous opportunities to extend the lead before half-time. Stuart Beavon even had the ball in the net after scoring a seemingly good goal but referee Piggott, not for the only time in the game, ruled it out - a decision that didn’t go down too well with the Didcot supporters. Curtis almost deflected a shot past Webb from close range for the visitors but midway through the half Ardley were fortunate not to concede a penalty when Malone was clearly shoved over in the box as he burst through with only keeper Paul Tassell to beat. Beavon then came agonisingly close when his vicious shot took a slight deflection and bounced off the top of the crossbar and away to safety. Malone then brought a great save out of Tassell and Concannon was denied by a brave block by Jason Allen as he looked set to covert the rebound. A terrific move involving Beavon and Bradley Ward gave Concannon another chance but this time his curling shot missed the far post by inches. And with the last action of the opening half Tassell again performed wonders to keep-out Concannon’s clever chip. Unfortunately for Ardley they were caught on the back foot once more in the first minute of the second half and the game was effectively settled when Beavon capitalised on a defensive slip to prod the ball home under Tassell to put Didcot 3 up. Curtis almost replied immediately but put his header wide from 10 yards out. Ardley continued to work hard for an opening but they were rather fortunate to get back into the game in the 56^th minute. Matt Tarry burst into the box and Webb pulled off a super diving stop to flick the ball away for a throw-in. Surprisingly referee Piggott saw it differently and awarded Ardley a hotly disputed penalty which Chris Johnson confidently thumped home. The goal actually breathed life back into the game and Didcot were spurred onto the offensive. Beavon headed narrowly wide and then Concannon was unable to beat Tassell when put clean-through with 15 minutes left. Substitute Immanuel Wango brought a solid save from Tassell before the home side eventually scored a fourth in the last minute. Wango was again involved as he played a fine ball through to Concannon who this time made no mistake from 12 yards. Didcot: Webb; Beckett; Bedwell; Campbell; Heapy; Green; Jack; Ward (Wango 72); Concannon; Beavon; Heapy; Malone (Jones 46).
	The First Team are next in action on Saturday with a tough looking FA Cup tie at Braintree. There'll be a full preview on-line later this week of that one with a look at a couple of their star players.
	Don't forget that Reading Reserves take-on Gillingham Reserves at the Loop this afternoon - kick-off 2pm.

Tuesday 20th September 2005

	Didcot are back in League action tonight with a home match against Ardley United.
	Ardley are widely regarded as dark horses this season and their early season form underlines their considerable progression on the pitch (as well as off it). Chris Johnson returns to the Loop as their skipper and they have a number of other new faces in their ranks including striker Mark Scanes, who has scored regularly at all the clubs he has played at.
	Town are still missing key players - Paul Powell, Grant Goodall and Paul Hannigan are all doubtful but otherwise Stuart Peace has a similar squad to pick from as at the weekend when we took all 3 points at Highworth. Kick-off is 7.45pm.

Monday 19th September 2005

Didcot Town host Reading Reserves this coming Wednesday (21st Sept) when they take on the multi-talented Gillingham Reserves side. Kick-off is 2pm and spectators are most welcome.

Sunday 18th September 2005

	Didcot emerged comfortable winners eventually yesterday with an excellent 3-1 win at Champions Highworth at the Elm.
	Full report of the game: Venue: Elm Recreation Ground Date: Saturday 17^th September 2005 Competition: GLS Football Hellenic Premier Division Score (Home side first): Highworth 1-3 Didcot Town Goalscorers: Highworth: Bellinger 44 Didcot: Beavon 19; Parrott 37; Ward71 mins Attendance: 212 Didcot had failed to score against current League champions Highworth for nearly four years but it only took them 19 minutes to find the net and set-up a comfortable 3-1 win at the Elm on Saturday. Highworth are always difficult side to beat at their own ground and Didcot had to be at their best to put an end to their dismal run against the Worthians. The home side almost took the lead in the second minute when Phil Corcoran fired narrowly wide and that scare spurred Didcot into an attack of their own. Bradley Ward’s free-kick found Stuart Beavon only 6 yards out but Elliott Jackson pulled off the first of a string of terrific saves to deny him. A minute later and Jackson flung himself to the left to deflect another Beavon effort round the post and from the resulting corner the Highworth keeper had to flick Ian Concannon’s header over the crossbar. Sean Terry always looked a threat at the other end and he showed excellent technique when he volleyed narrowly over from outside the box.. The visitors continued to have the better of it and after Dave Green’s header had flown inches wide Didcot took a deserved lead. Concannon showed great composure out on the right flank not only to beat his man but also to send over an inch perfect cross. Beavon still had plenty to do and his header flew over the out-stretched hand of Jackson and into the top-corner. Highworth almost replied immediately when Stuart Bellinger’s shot grazed Chris Webb’s right-hand post. Ward brougother decent save out of Jackson before Wayne Cleverly fired over the bar with a firm shot in the 36^th minute. Didcot doubled their advantage shortly afterwards and it was Concannon again who turned provider. This time his persistence down the left caused the Highworth defence problems and Andy Parrott made no mistake with a header following Concannon’s pin-point cross. Highworth had a good spell just before half-time and their pressure was rewarded with a goal. Bellinger fired home from the edge of the box to send his side in at the break only 2-1 down. The interval seemed to disrupt Didcot’s game for a while and Highworth had much more possession in the early exchanges of the second half. Bellinger almost got clear of the Didcot defence midway through the half but Danny Campbell was in superb form and he was able to clear the danger. A defensive slip at the other end gave Didcot a 3-1 lead and effectively decided the game with 19 minutes left. Ward broke clear and he managed to find the corner of the net despite the Jackson attempts to deny him. Ward then came within a whisker of adding a fourth as his powerful shot thumped off the top of the bar. Jackson then pulled of a stunning save from Beavon and in the closing moments the Highworth keeper tipped Ward’s volley over the bar. Didcot remain unbeaten in the League but with a rejuvenated Ardley visiting the Loop Meadow on Tuesday, Didcot will have to be at their best again to keep their run going. Didcot: Webb; Beckett; Bedwell; Campbell; Green; Parrott; Jack; Ward; Concannon (Malone 74 mins); Beavon; Heapy.
	Action from yesterday's game and the closest Marco got to Pazza all afternoon (fortunately for Pazza)
	Next weekend we play at Braintree in the FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round. They play at Cressing Road Stadium and if you are intending to make your own way there, click the link to find the location of the ground.

Friday 16th September 2005

	The U18's got a narrow 1-0 win against AFC Wallingford last night - see Youth Section for match report.
	The First Team are back in League action tomorrow and face the tricky visit to current Champions Highworth.
	To say that Highworth have a bit of a spell over us is an understatement. We haven't scored against them in any competition since February 2002 - ironically in a game where Ian Concannon scored all 6 in a 6-2 win at the Loop. More of the same Conners would be nice on Saturday.
	The team are in high spirits after the superb win, again 6-2, at Herne Bay on Tuesday night. By all accounts it was a brilliant display of finishing and it earned the lads a night off from training yesterday. Paul Powell is definitely ruled out but Bradley Ward comes back into the squad. Otherwise Stuart has the same players available as last weekend.
	Catch all the news and reaction on-line here on Sunday.

Wednesday 14 September 2005

Don't forget the U18's are in action at the Loop tomorrow evening with an Allied Counties League match against League leaders AFC Wallingford (KO 7.45pm I think). Lots of support would be appreciated by the lads!

Tuesday 13th September 2005

	BREAKING NEWS...
	Tues 13th Sept FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round Replay Herne Bay 2-6 Didcot Town Att: 211 Didcot Town produced a stunning fightback this evening to beat Herne Bay 6-2 at Winch's Field, booking their place in the 2nd Qualifying Round of the FA Cup in the process, and a visit to Braintree Town of the Ryman Premier League. For the first 40 minutes of the game Didcot were well below par and found themselves trailing to a 9th minute goal from Bay's Stuart King. But in a remarkable spell Didcot went goal crazy and scored 6 in the space of just 25 minutes. Ian Concannon grabbed a stunning hat-trick, Stuart Beavon a brace and Paul Bedwell the goal of the game from 35 yards. In between Shaun Mitchell had given Herne Bay a 2-1 lead but the game turned on its head, Didcot went goal crazy, and the Kent League side had no answer to Concannon and Beavon who were simply unstoppable. Bay had Mitchell sent-off late-on to complete a miserable evening for the home side.
	Didcot make the long trek to east Kent this afternoon for the FA Cup 1st Qualifying replay at Herne Bay.
	Most Didcot supporters were left frustrated on Saturday as Didcot did everything but score in the first tie, which ended goalless, but with Stuart Beavon's red card Herne Bay could have won it on the break and we could have few complaints about the result.
	Paul Powell picked up a knee injury which could rule him out for up to 3-4 weeks but Bradley Ward is back in contention and Stuart Peace is hopeful that most of his squad will be able to get time off work to travel. Please note the player's coach is leaving the Loop at 2pm. There are no guarantees that there will be space for supporters but that will be on a first come first served basis.
	If you are driving you can find the location of Herne Bay's Winch's Field ground by following this link www.multimap.com and putting in CT6 5SJ in the postcode search box.
	To the winners this evening comes a trip to Essex based Ryman Premier side Braintree Town a week after next. Braintree have started well and currently lie in 7th place in their League. With an average crowd of nearly 400 at Braintree this season the financial incentive for Didcot and Herne Bay is clear but whoever makes the 2nd Qualifying Round will face a very difficult game indeed.
	First news here on tonight's game and there'll be a full preview of this Saturday's big game at Highworth in the Hellenic League later in the week.

Sunday 11th September 2005

	Didcot were unable to force a breakthrough against Herne Bay yesterday and now face a really tough replay at the Bay on Tuesday evening. The draw for the 2nd Qualifying Round takes place tomorrow and both sides will be interested to see who they will face should they emerge win the replay.

	Stuart Beavon has a shot blocked yesterday (pic R Neal)
	Yesterday's report as follows:
	Saturday 10th September 2005 FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round npower Loop Meadow Stadium Didcot Town 0-0 Herne Bay Scorers:n/a Att: 239 Didcot had to settle for a draw and a tricky looking replay in east Kent on Tuesday after failing to overcome a gritty Herne Bay side in the 1^st Qualifying Round of the FA Cup. The home side had enough chances to win but indifferent finishing, and some brave defending, meant that they now face a real test if they are to progress any further in the competition. Didcot's Paul Powell started the game in inspired form and it was the ex-Oxford United star who created the first opportunity for Stuart Beavon. Unfortunately he hesitated too long before shooting and the chance was gone. Herne Bay were always a threat on the break and Nathan Eastwood missed their first chance with a weak left-foot effort that sailed yards wide. Ian Concannon had a long-range shot easily saved before a quick-free kick routine was also claimed without any problems by Bay's keeper Jack Delo. Damion Hodge forced Didcot's Dave Green into a hurried clearance that spun over his own bar while at the other end Powell again created havoc in the visitors defence and Concannon headed the resulting cross over the cross-bar. Hodge forced a great diving stop from Town goalkeeper Chris Webb and more Bay pressure ended with Marlon Button shooting narrowly over. Green almost set-up Powell for the opener in the 31st minute but the ball was hacked clear and that was Powell's last involvement because a knee injury saw him replaced by Paddy Malone moments later. The half ended with a series of free-kicks around the Bay box. Concannon and Beavon (twice) came close but the visitors managed to go in at the interval level. Herne Bay had the first chance after the break and Steven Lloyd really should have hit the target with a free-header in the 47^th minute. Gradually Didcot exerted themselves and virtually camped themselves down in the Herne Bay half. In the 54^th minute Didcot missed two glorious opportunities to score with Matty Jack and Beavon both guilty of missing the target with just Delo to beat. Malone was creating problems for the Bay defence but all too often the end-product was slightly disappointing and twice in the space of three minutes he only had the keeper to beat but he failed to force a save from Delo. Beavon almost opened the scoring with ten minutes left but grazed the bar with a header from 6 yards. In the closing stages Didcot threw everything at Herne Bay and at the same time left gaps at the back. Luke Harvey could have scored for the visitors and Hodge missed a sitter before two contentious decisions in the just before the final whistle left Didcot feeling slightly hard done-by. Concannon looked to have won the game when his header beat Delo and was hacked clear after crossing the line. Much to everyone’s surprise the linesman, who was in a perfect position, failed to acknowledge the goal. It was too much for Beavon, who spoke out of turn to the same linesman moments later, and just to prove he was still awake he duly brought the matter to referee Penfold’s attention. Inevitably a yellow card was brought out, Beavon’s second of the game, and he was sent-off on the stroke of full-time. Didcot will still believe they can win the tie but a better performance will be needed if they are to make the next round.

Friday 9th September 2005


	The U18's got their League campaign off to a flyer last night (3-0 win at Carterton)- see Youth Section for details and report.
	All attention for the First Team is now on tomorrow's FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round tie with Herne Bay at the Loop.
	Herne Bay are having a good season with the only blemish a 1-0 reverse at Maidstone Utd (not a bad result in itself) . By all accounts they are a youthful team and Didcot will have to be at their best if we are to be involved in the 2nd Qualifying Round draw.
	Didcot still have injury problems with Paul Hannigan a doubt and Dave Green still not 100% fit but likely to play a part. Skipper Jamie Heapy is also likely to be involved following his return from suspension.
	Didcot have started the season proper in good but not spectacular style. Manager Stuart Peace will be looking to tighten things a little up at the back because our success last season was based on a mean defence. Didcot have conceded 7 goals so far in 6 matches while last year it wasn't until our 9th match, against Tooting & Mitcham in late September, that we conceded our first goal. Having said that, up front we have been firing on all cylinders with Conners and Bev looking in terrific form.
	With the Bay expected to bring a decent support all the way from east Kent we should have a healthy crowd in tomorrow. Please arrive in good time and take the opportunity to have a look at our First Team sponsor's (Chevrolet Bellingers) show-car that will be on display within the ground.

Thursday 8th September 2005

Didcot Town’s Patrick Burton (pictured below) has been honoured in the annual National FA ‘Groundsman of the Year’ Awards at Windsor Racecourse on yesterday. His tireless efforts earned him third place (at level 5 of the non-league pyramid) narrowly behind the winner, Tommy Porter, from Durham City AFC.

Sir Trevor Brooking, The FA’s Director of Football Development, congratulated all the winners on receiving their award. "The outstanding contribution made by these people and the effort put into keeping the pitches in such excellent condition, all year round, make it possible for players of all standards to enjoy and improve their game. "The FA is dedicated to developing the grassroots game and is investing over £25 million to this effect every year. This award recognises the dedicated work done by the people who are out in all weathers, ensuring that thousands of games take place every weekend up and down the country. Their effort deserves every accolade."

Paddy is pictured below left.

Wednesday 7th September 2005

	Didcot earned a narrow 4-2 win at Kidlington last night in front of a crowd of 340 at Yarnton Lane. Report as follows:
	Tuesday 6th September 2005 GLS Football Hellenic League Premier Division Yarnton Road, Kidlington Kidlington 2-4 Didcot Town Scorers: Kidlington:Mason 40, Holden 47 mins Didcot: Beavon 28 and 82, Powell 38, Ward 88 mins Att: 340 This game heralded the first use in anger of Kidlington's floodlights and the bumper crowd of 340 were treated to an open game of almost end-to-end football. It was always going to be an exciting match when Didcot's Ian Concannon thumped the top of crossbar with a shot from 8 yards after only 25 seconds. Shortly afterwards a combination of Kidlington's impressive keeper Huw Evans and defender Danny Mason somehow cleared the ball off the foot of Concannon as he looked set to score. But this was certainly not all one way traffic and Carl Bloomfield struck the bar for the home side on the quarter hour. Paddy Malone had a good low shot turned away before Didcot took the lead in the 28th minute. Bradley Ward released Stuart Beavon who finished in style from the edge of the box. Beavon was then denied by a brave block by Mason. However the visitors did double the advantage when Paul Powell produced a moment of magic to fire low past Evans. But this Kidlington side are nothing if not resilient and with their backs to the wall produced a stunning comeback. Five minutes before the break Gary Parker swung-in a trademark free-kick and Mason headed home past Chris Webb. Didcot's fears turned to reality when they lost their lead two minutes into the second half. Luke Holden, who impressed throughout, ran clear and his deflected shot crept in at the far post. The game was now there for the taking and while Didcot dominated possession and chances Kidlington always posed a threat on the break. Andy Parrott had two shots blocked in quick succession for Didcot and Holden was inches from giving Kidlington the lead when his looping shot flew just over. Evans was in inspired form in the Kidlington goal and he made a stunning diving save to deny Parrott as the game looked to be ending all-square. Eventually Didcot's pressure told and they grabbed two goals in the closing minutes to claim the points. Beavon got his second of the night with a close-range header and the scoring was completed when Ward was left with an open goal following unselfish work from Powell to make it 4-2.
	Next up is Herne Bay in the FA Cup at the Loop on Saturday. Latest team news to follow later in the week.

Tuesday 6th September 2005

	Didcot are in action tonight at newly promoted Kidlington in the Hellenic League. Kick-off is 7.30pm but you are advised to arrive early as they are expecting a big crowd - it marks the opening of Kidlington's new floodlights. The ground is in Yarnton Road adjacent to Morton Avenue.
	For Didcot Jamie Heapy returns to the squad after suspension. There are no new injury concerns.
	I have updated the Forthcoming Fixtures Download on the Home Page. Please print-off and put up on your noticeboard at work/school so we can get the Loop buzzing at home matches this year.

Sunday 4th September 2005

	Didcot produced an excellent performance and 5-0 win against Fairford in the League at the Loop yesterday. Match Report follows:
	Saturday 3rd September 2005 GLS Football Hellenic League Premier Division Npower Loop Meadow Stadium, Didcot Didcot Town 5 - 0 Fairford Town Scorers: Didcot: Beavon 45, Concannon 56, Ward 60, og 80 and Parrott 83 mins Att: 154 Didcot produced a scintillating second half performance against a hard working Fairford outfit and eventually ran-out 5-0 winners at a hot and sultry Loop Meadow on Saturday. The opening half was dominated by Didcot but resolute Fairford defending kept the home side out until the stroke of half-time when Stuart Beavon followed up Ian Concannon's header, that had come back off the bar, to break the dead-lock. Concannon should have extended the lead 10 minutes after the break but missed from close-range. Bradley Ward was in inspired form for the home-side and he brought out a stunning save from keeper Ian Gill shortly afterwards. The second goal wasn't long in coming however and Concannon coolly scored after a precise pass from Paul Powell. It was 3-0 on the hour when Ward thumped the ball home after Concannon had hit the inside of the post. Substitute Paddy Malone shot over, Paul Bedwell had a shot saved by Gill and Andy Parrott was also denied as Didcot threw everything at the visitors. Fairford's Kevin Coles almost got a goal back but for a good point-blank save from Chris Webb but it was the home side that managed to add two late goals to the scoreline. Didcot's fourth came via an own-goal following Powell's whipped cross. And the scoring was completed with 7 minutes remaining with Parrott rounding off a fine personal display when he headed past Gill from close-range.

	Andy Parrott (second from left) heads the ball forward yesterday (pic R Neal)
	Didcot now travel to promoted Kidlington on Tuesday in the League looking to continue the winning run which now stands at 4 matches.
	Next Saturday we entertain Kent League's Herne Bay in the FA Cup at the Loop. We had officials from the Bay watching us yesterday and I think its fair to say we will be in for an interesting match and afternoon.