Latest News
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Spitfires take the Bridle path...
Following approval from the Eastleigh Football Club board and shareholders we are delighted to announce the Directors of Bridle Insurance have aquired the majority shareholding at Eastleigh Football Club.
There will be a fans forum to be held at the clubhouse on Thursday the 9th February at 7pm.
We hope as many of you as possible will be able to attend where the new Directors will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Hants Senior Cup semi-final draw
Winchester City will host Eastleigh in the Hampshire Senior Cup semi-finals.
The Sydenhams Wessex Premier leaders will take on Ian Baird Spitfires on March 13th.
February Fixtures
Eastleigh Football Club Fixture List February 2012
FIRST XI
Saturday 4th - away to Salisbury City - Blue Square Bet South, 3pm
Tuesday 7th - Home to Havant & Waterlooville - Blue Square Bet South, 7.45pm
Saturday 11th - Home to Tonbridge Angels - Blue Square Bet South, 3pm
Tuesday 14th - away to Staines Town - Blue Square Bet South, 7.45pm
Saturday 18th - away to Hampton & Richmond Borough - Blue Square Bet South, 3pm
Saturday 25th - Home to Truro City - Blue Square Bet South, 3pm
RESERVES (Suburban League side)
Saturday 4th - Home to Tooting & Mitcham United Reserves - Suburban League Premier Division, 3pm
Saturday 11th - away to Tonbridge Angels Reserves - Suburban League Premier Division, 3pm
Saturday 18th - Home to Tonbridge Angels Reserves - Suburban League Cup, 3pm
Saturday 25th - away to Hemel Hempstead Town Reserves - Suburban League Premier Division, 3pm
RESERVES (Wyvern League side)
Saturday 11th - away to Fleet Town Reserves - Wyvern League Premier Division, 3pm
Wednesday 15th - away to Moneyfields Reserves - Wyvern League Premier Division, 7.45pm
Monday 20th - Home to Sholing Reserves - Wyvern League Premier Division, 7.45pm
Saturday 25th - away to A F C Totton Reserves - Wyvern League Premier Division, 7.45pm
Monday 27th - Home to Bashley Reserves - Wyvern League Premier Division
YOUTH TEAM (Football Conference Youth)
Wednesday 1st - Home to Boreham Wood Whites - Conference Youth Alliance, 2pm
Wednesday 8th - away to Wingate & Finchley - Conference Youth Alliance, 2pm
Wednesday 22nd - away to JMA Reading - Conference Youth Alliance, 2pm
Wednesday 29th - Home to Leatherhead - Conference Youth Alliance, 2pmMarathon by Ray Murphy
Ray Murphy has gained an entry for the 2012 London Marathon on Sunday 22nd April. This is his second entry into the field of fun runners and again only the second time that he will have attempted to do such a feat.
Although delighted to have completed his first marathon back in 2008 the finishing time of six hours was a disappointment. Remembering the day well Ray can recollect how his hamstrings caused concern from the midway point of the course though he was determined to finish he would have taken twice as long as long as he got to the finish line. Again the ambition is to finish obviously but also the goal is to take an hour off his time in 2012.
The 2012 run will also see two charities benefiting from his run. As previously Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital, which is where one of his twin boys, Ian Murphy, (now aged 29) spent the first few weeks of his life in an incubator recovering from a split intestine weighing less than three pounds having arrived some six weeks early, will be a recipient. This is just some way of being able to repay the tremendous work the hospital carried out during those weeks.
Having gained an entry into the Marathon on a ballot Ray is allowed to nominate two charities that can have donations made too. The other Charity that Ray is hoping to complete the 26-mile course for is Saint Francis Hospice whom cared for both his parents who passed away in 2011 in a six-week period between July and August. Of the hospice Ray mentions that although he had obviously been aware of the cancer disease, this was really the first time that he had been close to the effects of the disease and was comforted by the excellent work that the Hospice carried out for his parents.
Donations can be made on Rays Virgin Money page at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/RayMurphy
Eastleigh 4-0 Sutton United
EASTLEIGH 4-0 SUTTON UNITED
SATURDAY 28th JANUARY 2012Blue Square Bet South
Match Report by Jamie Montigue
Match Pictures courtesy of Graeme Horobin
EASTLEIGH: Jack Dovey, Andy Forbes, Michael Green, Scott Rogers, Tom Jordan (c), Mitchell Nelson, Philip Appiah (Danny Smith 7), Bradley Bubb (Graeme Montgomery), Jamie Slabber (Jamie Slabber 69), Damian Scannell, Daryl McMahon. Subs (not used): Gareth Barfoot, Gary Elphick.
Goals: Eastleigh - Bradley Bubb (32, 50, 62), Damian Scannell (82).
Attendance: 859
Eastleigh brushed past Sutton United with a finishing master class from outstanding hat trick hero Bradley Bubb.
The on-loan striker from Aldershot Town was in lethal form in front of goal in a man of the match winning display with three clinical finishes firing Ian Baird's Spitfires into a 3-0 lead.
Damian Scannell rounded off a convincing and dominant win for Eastleigh by scoring a fourth goal eight minutes from time.
Guard of Honour launch
Youngsters from our flourishing academy will launch the Spitfires guard of honour this Saturday for the eagerly anticipated home fixture against high flying Sutton United.
The lucky boys and girls will form the guard of honour as the players emerge for the clash with the U’s, before taking their seats to cheer the blues to victory.
The U’s are managed by ex-Eastleigh manager, Paul Doswell, who will no doubt receive a ‘warm’ reception and a victory for Eastleigh will see them close the gap on Doswell’s team who currently sit in the final playoff spot.
We are awaiting confirmation from Sutton to see if their lucky mascot, Jenny the Giraffe will be attending or not – let’s hope she’s not so lucky Saturday and the Spitfires fly to victory.
We are also delighted to announce this Saturday’s Matchday Mascots will be Scarlett Jewell (ten) and Freddie Fox (six). Scarlett and Freddie will be receiving the full VIP treatment with a tour of the ground and meeting players and manager Ian Baird before the game. Dressed in full replica kit Scarlett and Freddie will then have that all important job of leading the players out onto the pitch and photographed with the match officials and captains.
Now the Spitfires are offering the chance for local youth football teams to take part in both of these once in a lifetime experiences in the run in to the end of the season. For more information on the matchday experiences please email Shauna at admin@eastleigh-fc.co.uk or telephone her on 02380 613361.
Xmas Draw Winners
EASTLEIGH FOOTBALL CLUB CHRISTMAS DRAW 2011 PRIZE WINNERS
(Drawn on Tuesday 24th January after match against Salisbury City)
PRIZE WINNER TICKET NO
£1,000.00 CASH AMANDA 5874SONY TV STEVE BECK 5075
I.O.W. HOLIDAY IAN STEPHENS 6407
EXECUTIVE CLUB MEMBERSHIP ELLIOTT TRODD 3458
2 EFC SEASON TICKETS SELINA 3192
£250.00 CASH JEFF FENNA 5528
DELICIOUS DINING VOUCHER RICH PRICE 5527
VERY MANY THANKS TO ALL PARTICIPANTSEastleigh 1-1 Salisbury City
EASTLEIGH 1-1 SALISBURY CITY
TUESDAY 24th JANUARY 2012Blue Square Bet South
Match Report by Jamie Montigue
Match Pictures courtesy of Graeme Horobin
EASTLEIGH: Jack Dovey, Andy Forbes, Michael Green, Jamie Brown (Graeme Montgomery 80), Tom Jordan (c), Mitchell Nelson, Philip Appiah (Chris Flood 69), Scott Rogers, Bradley Bubb, Damian Scannell, Daryl McMahon. Subs (not used): Danny Smith, Gareth Barfoot, Gary Elphick.
Goals: Salisbury City - Robbie Matthews (16). Eastleigh - Graeme Montgomery (86).
Attendance: 903
Eastleigh's first home game of 2012 resulted in an enthralling 1-1 draw against rivals Salisbury City as the hosts had to fight back from a goal behind to salvage a point.
Ian Baird's side had a new look to it with a host of new signings on show this evening. Philip Appiah and Bradley Bubb both made their Silverlake Stadium debuts as did the Spitfires’ most recent signing Daryl McMahon. Defender Gary Elphick was amongst the substitutes.
The only change to the starting eleven from the side defeated by Basingstoke at the weekend saw Chris Flood make way for talented midfield playmaker Daryl McMahon, who joined the club yesterday from Boreham Wood.
McMahon joins Eastleigh
Eastleigh FC are thrilled to announce the signing of midfielder Daryl McMahon from Boreham Wood on a two-year deal for an undisclosed fee.
Dublin born McMahon goes straight into the squad and is available for selection against local rivals Salisbury City on Tuesday.
The 28-year-old has had an impressive career to date starting as a trainee at West Ham United, turning professional in Auguast 2002. After being released by the Hammers, Daryl signed for Leyton Orient playing 72 times including 33 games in the O's promotion winning campaign of 2005-06. Following a loan spell at Notts County Daryl then joined then conference side Stevenage making 74 appearance and scoring 7 goals.
Following a short spell at Cambridge United Daryl then moved to Farnborough making almost 100 appearances before a summer move to Boreham Wood.
First team manager Ian Baird said "We are delighted to have secured Daryl's signature. The lad has undoubted quality and I know Boreham Wood were extremely reluctant to let him go. He is a good professional and at 28 will add some experience and quality to the squad. His attitude is first class and is very keen to be part of what we are trying to achieve here."
Elphick signs for Spitfires
Eastleigh are delighted to announce the signing of Eastbourne Borough defender Gary Elphick for an undisclosed fee.
Gary started his career at Brighton & Hove Albion where he made a couple of league appearances along with loan spells at Eastbourne Borough, Aldershot Town and St Albans City. Indeed, whilst at St Albans he played for the England National Game XI.
In the 2005-06 season he was released by Brighton and signed for newly-promoted Conference side St Albans City where he made 84 appearances scoring 7 goals. Gary then opted to leave in December 2007 joining local rivals Havant & Waterlooville.
Elphick went on to sign for Conference National side Eastbourne Borough in 2009 where he has made around 80 appearances scoring 7 goals.
Eastleigh director of football Dave Malone confirmed the signing of Gary Elphick for the Spitfires saying: "We are delighted to welcome Gary to the club, he is a player with a good pedigree and we had to fight off stiff competition to attract his signature.
"The fact Gary chose to commit to Eastleigh for less money than he has previously been offered elsewhere is a great endorsement of how we are going about things here and is really positive news for the football club."
Gary has initially signed for the remainder of this season and next.
Press Release
In a busy day at Eastleigh Football Club we can advise of the following:
The arrival of centre back Gary Elphick has been confirmed from Eastbourne Borough and is available for selection at Basingstoke Town tomorrow. 26-year-old Brighton born Gary has also made two appearances for his home town club as well as having experience with St Albans City, Aldershot Town and Havant & Waterlooville.
It has been confirmed that the semi final draw for the Hampshire Senior Cup will be made on the Radio Solent Non League show on Saturday 28th January, the show starting at 6pm. With Eastleigh and fellow Quarter Final victors Winchester City, the other two semi finalists will be decided during next midweek when A F C Totton entertain A F C Portchester and also Havant & Waterlooville entertain Sholing. The semi finals are scheduled to be played during week commencing 13th March.Leaving the club today was Ali Fuseini. The former Millwall and Lincoln City midfielder who only made one appearance for the club away at Eastleigh in December has linked up with fellow Blue Square Bet South side Bromley.
It was hoped that a second player would complete a transfer in today to enable him to be available at Basingstoke Town tomorrow but negotiations are still to be completed, but it is hoped that the deal will be complete on Monday when an announcement of the players identity will be revealed.
Will Sturgess has left the club to join AFC Totton. The youngster made one first team appearance as a substitute in a pre-season match at Romsey, but has failed to figure in the first team since (though has been included in the reserve squads).Earlier in the week, Joe Maxwell signed for Winchester City. Joe featured for the reserves earlier in the season but in previous years had appeared eleven times in the first team netting three goals.
HSC: Eastleigh through to semi-final
Hants Senior Cup Quarter Final - Tuesday 17th January 2012
EASTLEIGH: Gareth Barfoot, Andy Forbes, Michael Green, Scott Rogers, Mitchell Nelson, Ian Herring (c), Chris Flood, Danny Smith, Richard Gillespie (Sam Wilson 61), Damian Scannell (Jamie Brown 61), Graeme Montgomery (Jordace Holder-Spooner 61). Subs (Not used): Billy Tsovolos, Ben Wilson.
Romsey Town: Matt Brown, Richard Hayter, Jake Long, Luke Dempsey, Ryan Gregory (c), Jamie Thoroughgood, Macs Sampays, Gareth Batchelor, Simon De'ath, Chris Hall, Ryan Long. Subs: Chris Morris, Shane Flooks, Sam Melin, Steve Hollick.
Eastleigh Goalscorer(s): Chris Flood, Jamie Brown, Mitchell Nelson
Romsey Town Goalscorer(s): Ryan Long 2Attendance: 201
Eastleigh are through to the semi-final of the Hampshire Senior Cup after a 3-2 win over Romsey Town at the Silverlake Stadium.
The Spitfires opened the scoring through Chris Flood early in the second half after a goalless opening 45 minutes.
Ryan Long hit back for the visitors with an equaliser, before goals from Jamie Brown and Mitchell Nelson (his first for the club) looked to have put the tie out of reach for the visitors at 3-1.
Eastleigh, who played a large part of the second half with ten men having lost Jordace Holder-Spooner to an injury; with three substitutions already used, conceded a second goal deep into injury time when Ryan Long grabbed his and Romsey's second of the night.
HALF TIME: Eastleigh 0-0 Romsey Town
FULL TIME: Eastleigh 3-2 Romsey Town
Ex-player news
Monday, 16 January 2012
A quick round up of former Eastleigh players that have linked up with clubs recently that you may not be aware of:
Staforde Palmer - Had two brief spells at the club first in season 2009/10 on loan from Hayes & Yeading United when Staforde netted two goals from three league games. Staforde returned to Hayes & Yeading but then linked up with Eastleigh again for the pre season of 2010/11 playing in friendlies and the South West Joma Cup and the first two league games of the season before being injured and drifting away from the Club having made a grand total of twelve appearances scoring five goals. Staforde spent this pre season with Farnborough but has now signed for Ryman League Division One side Metropolitan Police.
Carl Wilson-Denis - Staforde's strike partner at Metropolitan is Carl Wilson Denis. Carl joined Eastleigh back in December 2006 and made 23 appearances for the Club all in league fixtures though thirteen as a substitute from his appearances Carl netted three goals. Carl has since been with Maidenhead United and Kingstonian before moving on to Met Police.
Matt Armstrong-Ford - Goalkeeper who made a second half appearance for Eastleigh in the pre season friendly at Weymouth having been released by Exeter City, linked up with Ryman League side Horsham after trialling with The Spitfires, but has now moved on to Ryman League Premier Division side Hastings United.
Steve Cook - Steve played twelve games for the Club in season 2009/10 on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion has now signed for A F C Bournemouth after further loan spells at Eastbourne Borough and Mansfield Town.
Jordan Rose - Jordan made two appearances in our pre season build up and then was a used substitute in our first league game of the season at home to Basingstoke Town, Jordan then moved on to Hereford United where he picked up an injury, has now signed for Hayes & Yeading United in the Conference Premier Division.
Youseff Bamba - Made one first team appearance as a used substitute in a Hampshire Senior Cup tie in 2008/9 having been a graduate from our youth system, then moved on to Laverstock & Ford in the Wessex League has now signed for Southern League Hungerford Town.
Frankie Raymond - Midfielder who made six appearances for Eastleigh earlier this season on loan from Reading has also been on loan to Hungerford Town though has now returned to Reading, whilst another former Eastleigh favourite David Asker was with Hungerford but has now signed for Wessex League Whitchurch United. Hungerford Town also have former Eastleigh defender Matt Day still in their ranks after he made six appearances for Eastleigh in season 2009/10.
Warren McBean - Striker who made nine appearances for the Club scoring four goals in 2007/8 has recently departed Bromley and joined another Blue Square Bet South side Welling United.
Jefferson Louis - Striker Louis signed for Eastleigh just prior to the start of the 2006/7 season but moved on after making nine appearances scoring two goals. Louis who has been with fellow Blue Square Bet South side Maidenhead United has now moved to Southern League Premier Division side Brackley Town.
Charlie Mann - Former Crystal Palace goalkeeper who played in our first pre season game at Winchester City moved on to join Croydon Athletic but has now moved to his home town club Harlow Town in the Ryman League Division One.
Warren Goodhind - The likeable Warren Goodhind who originally joined Eastleigh in November 2007 and has since had a couple of spells to make up his 110 appearances for the Club departed in the summer to joined Ryman League Premier Division Hemel Hempstead Town. Warren though has recently returned to the Blue Square Bet South by signing for Thurrock.
Mike Green - The goalkeeper who played five pre season matches and the first league game of the season went on to join Gloucester City in the Blue Square Bet North has recently had a spell on loan at Southern League Cirencester Town.
Havant match re-arranged
As the date chosen for the league match against Havant & Waterlooville is outside of the League's requested 42 days to rearrange, they have instructed that this fixture will now be played on Tuesday 7th February 2012 at 7.45pm.
Junior Spitfire Club
BECOME A JUNIOR SPITFIRE & GET YOUR CHANCE TO BE THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY MASCOT
It's time to join the club everyone is talking about and become a Junior Spitfire member and enjoy the benefits of being part of the coolest group in town!
For just £15 you will receive:
* Exclusive entry into our ‘Matchday Mascot draw'
* A Junior Spitfire membership pack featuring some fantastic Eastleigh FC goodies, including drinks bottle, key ring, Bridle bag and more.
* 10% discount on all school holiday soccer courses.
* Reduction on official replica shirts.
* Membership card.
* Two tickets to attend a match around your birthday, one for you and one for an accompanying adult!
* Spitfire Birthday and Christmas cards.
* And much more!
So, what is the Official Matchday Mascot I hear you ask....
Get involved and call us on 02380 645526 or email fic@eastleigh-fc.co.uk for an application form.
Probably the save of the season
We are delighted to announce an exciting new venture with main club sponsors, Bridle Insurance.
Simply arrange your insurance with Bridle and the revenue generated will be split equally between Eastleigh Football Club and Bridle.
Bridle have excellent facilities and special insurance rates for Eastleigh FC fans, players and staff!
Bridle can offer all forms of insurance, both personal and commercial. For fans that are already paying insurance premiums it is a way of supporting the club without spending any more money than they would normally do.
Please contact Bridle on 0845 034 9648 for more information, or for that all important money saving quotation.
Dave Malone, Director of Football emphasises that this is a superb way of raising revenue. He says please support the scheme whenever you can. Bridle have committed to being a long term partner of Eastleigh Football Club and this is a way the fans can really help raise vital money for the club.
Eastleigh score 7 more times!
We are delighted to announce 7 (yes seven) additional sponsors, with hopefully more to follow.
Following yesterday's announcement that Lawshield UK Limited will appear on the players shorts, with help from Bridle Insurance we have been very busy trying to generate that all important revenue and are delighted to announce the arrival of 7 additional sponsors.
A beaming Director of Football Dave Malone said "Our main sponsors Bridle Insurance are really getting behind the club and are making an immediate impact helping to secure an additional eight sponsors (including Lawshield yesterday) with lots more irons in the fire. We are all very excited and can't remember the last time we scored eight times in a day! "
Darren Nangle of Bridle Insurance says on their website "We are very keen for other local businesses to get involved to either sponsor or advertise with Eastleigh FC no matter how large or small. We have been very encouraged by the response we have received so far, especially given the difficult economic climate, which further demonstrates the Eastleigh community embracing the upcoming Bridle era".
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the following new sponsors:
911uk.com - visit them at: http://www.911uk.com/
Bridle Vehicle Leasing - visit them at: http://www.bridleinsurance.co.uk/vehicle-leasing.html
Draper Tools - visit them at: http://www.draper.co.uk/
Funtime Bouncy Castles - visit them at: http://www.funtimebounce.co.uk/
Jamesons Accountants - visit them at: http://www.jamesons.co.uk/
Kyriakides & Braier - visit them at: http://www.kblaw.co.uk/
Metabo Power Tools - visit them at: http://www.metabo.co.uk/If you would like to become involved and advertise at Eastleigh Football Club please contact Eastleigh Football Club on 02380 613361.
Lawshield follow the Spitfires
Eastleigh Football Club are thrilled to announce that Lawshield UK Limited, have agreed to become sponsors of the club and Lawshield will appear on the players shorts.
Director of Football, Dave Malone said "The last few weeks have been very exciting for all those involved with the club and Lawshield agreeing to sponsor the shorts is just further confirmation of the exciting times ahead. It would be fair to say this Lawshield support would not have been possible without the Bridle Insurance involvement and our thanks go out to both Lawshield and Bridle".
Lawshield specialise in providing quality insurance products which are underwritten by leading insurers. Their products and services offer comprehensive cover and a seamless integrated service solution to Insurers, Brokers, Fleet Managers and Affinities. They provide a one stop shop offering outsourced claims assistance solutions for household insurance and personal/commercial motor insurance which includes access to replacement vehicles, vehicle repair and legal services.
Please spend a moment to visit Lawshield website at http://www.lawshieldcorporate.com
Player News
Eastleigh FC can confirm the signing of Bradley Bubb on loan from Aldershot, until the end of the season.Bradley is an exciting forward, and was a key player for Farnborough last season - prior to joining Aldershot. Bubb has most recently been on loan with Blue Square Bet South neighbours Basingstoke Town.
Bubb boasts an outstanding scoring record in a career that has taken him from the Spartan South Midlands League with Chalfont St Peter to the npower League Two.
He netted 38 times in two years for Chalfont before banging in 35 goals in a single season with Beaconsfield SYCOB in the Southern One South & West.
A move to Farnborough followed where he scored 40 times in 88 games over two seasons and was a member of the side that finished runners-up in the BSB South last term.
That clinched him a full-time contract at Aldershot, but Bubb, who represented Grenada in the CONCACAF Cup in the USA during the summer, has found opportunities limited at the Recreation Ground.
Manager Ian Baird commented: "We needed to add a few more guns up front, someone with experience and a good scoring record who will give us genuine pace. Bradley fits that category."
Bradley joins fellow new signing Philip Appiah at the Silverlake Stadium. The 22-year-old completed his switch from Farnborough ahead of the weekend defeat against Dover Athletic, where the midfielder made his Spitfires debut.
Baird said: "At 22, Philip's the right age for us. He fits in with what we are trying to do in the short and long term.
"I've tried to sign him before but haven't been able to get him for some reason.
"I saw quite a bit of him at Hayes & Yeading. When he played against us for Farnborough earlier this season I felt he was the best player in their side. He's a similar sort of player to (ex-Spitfire) Anthony Riviere.
"We haven't paid a fee for him, he was non-contract at Farnborough."
The club can also confirm that Ross Bottomley has left the Club, and is expected to join AFC Totton. Thanks for all your efforts Ross, and all the best for the future.
Richard Gillespie has completed his loan spell at Bashley, having scored 5 goals, and returns to training tomorrow.
Points shared in Boxing Day stalemate
HAVANT & WATERLOOVILLE 0-0 EASTLEIGH
MONDAY 26th DECEMBER 2011
Blue Square Bet South
Figures can be calculated to make a guide on how you wish best to perceive them. To be honest from this game just remember that Eastleigh FC have now only lost one of their last eight league games. This was the dire local derby, the textbook goalless stalemate that a more seasonable temperature might have seen more drift away from the 938 attendance long before the game had finished.
Ian Baird returning to his old hunting ground made one change to the side that had defeated Boreham Wood in their previous league fixture with Danny Smith joining the starting line up in place of Jordace Holder-Spooner. Havant & Waterlooville were without former Eastleigh centre back Chris Holland missing through suspension.
Montgomery signs for Spitfires
Eastleigh have signed former Wealdstone favourite Graeme Montgomery on a permanent basis after he was released by npower League Two side Aldershot Town.
Montgomery takes on two Welling players before scoring - Pic courtesy of Graeme Horobin
The ex-Dagenham & Redbridge midfielder reunited himself with manager Dean Holdsworth by joining Aldershot after a successful trial period in August 2011.
The 23-year-old spent much of last season on loan at Newport County under Holdsworth.
He initially joined Eastleigh on loan in September and has made seventeen appearances for the Spitfires, netting three goals.
Aldershot Town manager Holdsworth said: "I would like to thank Graeme for his efforts during his time at the club and wish him well for the future as he continues his footballing career."
A statement from Eastleigh director of football Dave Malone confirmed the signing of Montgomery for the Spitfires: "We are pleased to confirm that Graeme Montgomery has signed a contract with EFC until the end of the season.
"Monty has been a big part of our recent run of good form, and we look forward to that continuing. He will of course be in our squad for the game down the road (Havant & Waterlooville) on Boxing Day."
...
In other news: Eastleigh FC have agreed a Club record fee with another Club, and we have agreed terms with the player.
However, for contractual reasons, we are not able to complete the transfer until after January 1st.
We would like to tell you more, but the other Club have asked that the matter remains unconfirmed until the transfer is satisfactorily concluded.
In respect of ground improvements - a full review of facilities will be implemented in the New Year.
Eastleigh 2-0 Boreham Wood
EASTLEIGH 2-0 BOREHAM WOOD
SATURDAY 17th DECEMBER 2011Blue Square Bet South
Match Report by Jamie Montigue
Match Pictures courtesy of Graeme Horobin
EASTLEIGH: Jack Dovey, Andy Forbes, Michael Green, Jamie Brown, Tom Jordan (c), Mitchell Nelson, Jordace Holder-Spooner (Danny Smith 56), Scott Rogers, Jamie Slabber (Ross Bottomley 88), Damian Scannell, Graeme Montgomery (Chris Flood 81). Subs (not used): Gareth Barfoot, Billy Tsovolos.
Goals: Eastleigh - Jamie Slabber (36), Damian Scannell (68).
Half Time - 1-0 Eastleigh, Full Time - 2-0 Eastleigh
Attendance: 490
Eastleigh secured back to back home wins to move up to tenth place in the Blue Square Bet South after recording a 2-0 victory over Boreham Wood.
Ian Baird's side are now unbeaten in seven league games at the Silverlake Stadium with five victories and two draws stretching back to the 17th September. It was also Eastleigh's third clean sheet of the season.
The Spitfires made two changes to the starting eleven that beat Thurrock last weekend. Jamie Slabber returned from injury to lead the attack whilst young defender Mitchell Nelson made his debut following his recent transfer from AFC Bournemouth. Ross Bottomley and Billy Tsovolos were the players to make way, whilst Danny Smith returned from suspension and was named as a substitute.
The opening goal of the game came in the 36th minute when JAMIE SLABBER intervened on an under hit back pass towards the visiting goalkeeper. Eastleigh's leading scorer shaped to knock the ball past Michael Jordan but instead let the ball run with a cleverly disguised dummy before running through to tap the ball into an empty net.
DAMIAN SCANNELL ensured Eastleigh would claim all three points as he doubled the Spitfires lead in the 68th minute for his first goal back since returning to the club. Michael Green provided the goal with a superb assist as the left back charged down the left flank beating two players before delivering a pinpoint cross to the back post. Scannell was on hand to turn the ball home with a glancing header.
Latest Player News
Mitchell Nelson - Eastleigh FC last night agreed terms with the 22-year-old defender from AFC Bournemouth, and subject to the completion of the necessary paperwork we hope that he will be available for our game at home to Boreham Wood on Saturday. Mitchell can play at right back or centre half and will add significant flexibility to our squad.
Andrew White - Subject to completion of the formalities, we have agreed to loan Andrew to Dorchester Town for an initial one month period. This will give the promising youngster an opportunity to play games, which we trust will be of benefit to all parties.Eastleigh 3-2 Thurrock
EASTLEIGH 3-2 THURROCK
SATURDAY 10th DECEMBER 2011
Blue Square Bet South
Match Report by Jamie Montigue
Match Pictures courtesy of Graeme Horobin
EASTLEIGH: Jack Dovey, Andy Forbes, Michael Green, Scott Rogers, Tom Jordan (c), Ross Bottomley, Jordace Holder-Spooner (Chris Flood 70), Billy Tsovolos, Jamie Brown, Damian Scannell (Sam Wilson 81), Graeme Montgomery. Subs (not used): Gareth Barfoot, Ben Wilson, Andrew White.
Goals: Eastleigh - Graeme Montgomery (28), Billy Tsovolos (39), Jamie Brown (43). Thurrock - Nathan Ashton (82), Jamie Guy (90 pen).
Attendance: 317
Eastleigh controlled the first half and looked to be out of sight with a three-goal lead at half time, but Thurrock came out fighting in the second half to claw back two late goals to set up a tense finish.
Damian Scannell was welcomed back to the Silverlake Stadium nearly four years on since he departed for Southend United in January 2008.
The former Dagenham & Redbridge winger lined up in attack for Ian Baird's side and caused numerous problems for the visitors particularly in the first half.
Danny Smith, Jamie Slabber and Ian Herring were all suspended for today's game. Ross Bottomley returned from a ban whilst Jordace Holder-Spooner and Billy Tsovolos were handed starting berths. New signing Scott Rogers made his home debut but Ali Fuseini was absent from the squad.
With just two minutes played, Scannell made an exceptional run down the left and squared the ball for Graeme Montgomery who skied his shot from just a couple of yards. Scannell came close himself with a couple of early chances whilst Rogers impressed in midfield with a commanding display.
Montgomery broke the deadlock in the 28th minute with a stunning half-volley that flew into the top corner. Lee Boylan then struck the foot of the post for the visitors with Dovey beaten but Eastleigh came back strong to dominate the remainder of the half.
Scannell won himself a penalty as his attacking dribble into the area resulted in the tricky forward being brought down. Scannell picked himself up to take the penalty but saw his spot kick saved by Craig Holloway.
Six minutes before the break, Billy Tsovolos raced into the penalty area to thump home Eastleigh's second goal from eight yards. In a blistering end to the half from the Spitfires, Jamie Brown soon added a third. Brown spun his marker superbly in the 43rd minute before planting an exquisite finish past the goalkeeper from the edge of the area to help Eastleigh to a convincing, dominant three-goal cushion at the half way stage.
Andy Forbes had a shot cleared off the line and Jack Dovey made a strong save at full-stretch to keep out Jamie Guy's effort in the closing stages of the first half.
HALF TIME: Eastleigh 3-0 Thurrock
After the break, Graeme Montgomery tried his luck from range with a powerful dipping effort that had to tipped over the bar by Holloway in the 55th minute.
The game then became a little devoid of chances for a large spell but Thurrock finished the game strongly in stark comparison to the end of the first half.
Nathan Ashton drilled home an unstoppable finish eight minutes from time to pull a goal back for the visitors leaving Dovey helpless in the Eastleigh goal.
The visitors continued to press and saw an effort come back off the post where Michael Green was penalised for holding an opponent back. A penalty was awarded and Jamie Guy duly found the net from 12-yards despite Dovey's best efforts.
Thankfully for Eastleigh, the damage was already done in the first half and it was enough to claim all three points despite Thurrock's two late strikes.
FULL TIME: Eastleigh 3-2 Thurrock
Damian Scannell
Eastleigh FC are absolutely delighted to confirm that we have agreed to sign Damian Scannell from Dagenham & Redbridge FC, subject to a satisfactory medical and completion of the necessary paperwork.
Many of our supporters will remember Damian from his previous time here at the Silverlake - when he was a real favourite with us all. Our thanks should go to Bridle, as their generous Sponsorship has allowed us to sign this gifted player.
We hope to have Damo available for our game at home to Thurrock on Saturday (ko 3.00pm).
Damian first joined Eastleigh in the 2007/2008 season on the 2nd June 2007 from Fisher Athletic.
Scannell is a highly talented and skilful wide player who is comfortable operating on either flank. His attributes include powerful running and trickery.
The Croydon-born winger netted in only his second game as an Eastleigh player in a pre-season friendly against Southampton.
Damian scored a terrific double in a 3-0 rout over Fisher Athletic to get one over his old side just weeks into the season on a fine afternoon at the Silverlake Stadium in August 2007. Scannell also played his part in helping Eastleigh to a 5-0 FA Cup victory by scoring twice in the win over Clevedon Town to see the club through to the Fourth Qualifying Round for the first time.
When operating as a striker, Damo was equally impressive with goals against Forest Green Rovers, Hayes & Yeading and Bromley.
In a short space of time entertaining the Eastleigh fans with a return of seven goals from twenty-six games, Scannell alerted the attentions of several Football League clubs including Nottingham Forest, Southampton and Southend United for his superb form under Ian Baird.
Southend United lead the race for the wingers signature and Scannell agreed terms in December before making his £5,000 switch to Steve Tilson's side upon the opening of the January 2008 transfer window.
Damian left a lasting impression in his final performance in Eastleigh colours with a magical assist against Eastbourne Borough.
Worth the entrance fee alone some might say, Scannell electrified the Silverlake Stadium crowd as he left three defenders standing, somehow finding a way through before crossing to find Andy Forbes who found the back of the net with a header off the post.
Whilst at Roots Hall he made 58 appearances, mainly from the bench with his last game being in the win over Walsall in March 2010 when he broke his fifth metatarsal. Damian also had a spell on loan at Brentford in November 2008.
Damian went on to sign for Dagenham and Redbridge from Southend United in July 2010 for the League Two club.
Nearly four years since departing Eastleigh, the Spitfires faithful will be ecstatic at the news that the club have been able to bring Scannell back to the club.
Bridle Insurance update
Following a meeting today, Bridle Insurance have reaffirmed their intention to move forward with their desire to acquire a majority Shareholding in Eastleigh Football Club Limited.
The Club has already received indications from a number of significant Shareholders that they are minded to accept the offer from Bridle, and we are confident that the agreed objective will be achieved. There is a certain legal procedure and protocol that must be followed, thus it will take a short while to complete the formalities.
In the interim, Bridle have agreed a substantial sponsorship package - which will be of immediate benefit to the Club.
We are sure you will join the Directors of Eastleigh Football Club Limited in welcoming Bridle to the Silverlake Stadium!
Board Announcement
The Board of Eastleigh Football Club are delighted to announce that they have today resolved to recommend to the Shareholders an acceptance of an offer from Bridle Insurance Limited for the purchase of a majority shareholding.Bridle Insurance are currently main Sponsors of Oxford United, and they have set before the Board an exciting and progressive set of proposals.
We are delighted to recommend their offer, and to working with them towards a prosperous future.
Green commits to Spitfires
Michael Green has joined Eastleigh on a permanent basis after being released from his contract at Port Vale. http://eastleighfc.blogspot.com/2011/11/green-commits-to-spitfires.html (Daily Echo)
The 22-year-old left-back got his big professional break with the Valiants during the summer after an outstanding season with Evo-Stik South & West champions AFC Totton.
But less than five months after signing a two-year deal for the npower League Two club, his contract has been "reluctantly" terminated by Vale because, they say, Green wanted to be closer to his family.
Eastleigh, who originally sold Green to Totton for a four-figure sum in 2009/10, have had him back on loan from the Valiants for the last month since when they have pulled themselves away from the Blue Square Bet South relegation zone to within five points of the play-off places.
Confirming the Sway-based former Christchurch player is now a permanent fixture at the Silverlake Stadium, Eastleigh boss Ian Baird said: "Greener has joined us for this season and one more.
Shaun Wilkinson
Following much discussion, we are pleased to confirm that Shaun Wilkinson has accepted our offer to join our Management team, as Player/Coach.
Shaun is a very experienced player, having previously played at Brighton, Havant & Waterlooville and Weymouth. He suffered a serious injury in 2009 - but is now close to full fitness.
As the title suggests, Shaun will combine playing with assisting Manager Ian Baird.Player Development Programme
Press Release
We are pleased to print a Press Release, distributed following ratification of our intentions at the EFC Board meeting earlier today.
EASTLEIGH FOOTBALL CLUB - PRESS RELEASE
Eastleigh Football Club believe that the way for us to continue our progress is to alter our football strategy, and to channel significant efforts towards bringing in and helping to develop talented younger players. We intend to achieve this by offering them a full time professional environment within which to work. This is part of our medium term plan to both achieve promotion and to change the ethos and culture of the Club. To achieve this we also recognise that we will need to retain a nucleus of senior players to support our aims. Therefore, in the short to medium term ,we will be operating a combination of part time senior and full time young players. Our First Team Manager Ian Baird will become a full time employee supported by a complete Coaching and Management team. This is a simple and exciting plan, although (naturally) this will involve significant ground work to recruit suitable players. Our primary but not exclusive target is to attract players released by Professional Clubs. To identify appropriate players we are delighted to announce that we have appointed Kevin Braybrook as Head of Player Recruitment. Kevin is a highly respected coach and has a excellent network of contacts in this area.
From a players perspective, we will also give young talented players the opportunity to showcase their skills at a high standard of Non League Football - which is only two Divisions below League Two. For the more senior players their contribution will be invaluable, and we trust that they will enjoy what will be an exciting challenge. We already have have an excellent Youth system, headed by Danny Smith and Darren Waterman, along with full time coaches working with local Colleges and Schools. This provides an infrastructure commensurate with a full time professional environment, indicating that the "building blocks" are already significantly positioned.
To qualify the rationale behind this change, please consider the following. We have established ourselves over the past seven years in the BSS as a successful Club - both on and off the field. The Board of Directors have made as much finance available as possible for the First Team Management in order to attract the best possible part time players. This is the formula used by most Clubs, and with the odd exception the League table standings tend to reflect each Club's budget. This generally demonstrates, all things being equal, that unless you can generate significantly more income - it is likely that things will remain much the same the following season. We were no longer able or willing to adopt this approach, which is why we have looked at this radical change in strategy. From a financial perspective, in truth, this will enable us to re-direct our available funds in a much more positive manner.
The Club recognises that during this period of transition, we will have to be patient. This process of change will mean that next season will be both invigorating and challenging. However, the Board of Directors, the Manager and the whole Coaching staff are committed to ensuring the success of this new strategy, in time to be competitive and entertaining by the time the new season starts in August.
© Eastleigh FC 2008 | Photography by Mike Denning and Tony Smith Photography.
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