2025 A YEAR OF CONSOLIDATION AND SILVERWARE FOR HUCKNALL TOWN

 HUCKNALL TOWN 2025 REVIEW

The year began following a defeat at rock bottom Kimberley MWFC on Boxing Day 2024. A disappointing performance which buoyed on a forlorn Kimberley into a quite remarkable resurgence. More to come on that later.

So the Yellow's went to Coronation Park for our first game of 2025 still anxiously looking over their shoulders and needing some victories to ensure they would be competing in this division come August. Tris and Aaron had been at the helm for about 6 weeks and despite a remarkable victory at eventual Champions Lincoln defeats at Boston and Deeping Rangers followed. A welcome win at home to Melton preceded the Kimberley defeat and we were still in a relegation battle.

A brace from our talisman striker "Big Nige" Towle and an Ethan Hulley strike saw the Yellows defeat our biggest rivals Eastwood despite ex Yellow Terry Hawkridge scoring for the Red Badgers. 

A break from the league saw us play a Notts senior Cup tie at the RM against fierce rivals Sherwood who at the time were step 4. A win at Selston and a good win at Newark Town had brought us to this stage of the competition where hand on heart I thought it would end. However a blistering first half display and goals from Solace and Brad Lathall saw Hucknall home despite a goal for the visitors in the second half. Could this be our year?

Back to the league and confidence gained from these two results saw the Yellows produce a fine run of results.Wins at home against Wisbech and away at Ashby Ivanhoe were followed by a draw at Harrowby before another home victory this time over Gresley saw the Yellows put distance between themselves and the relegation zone. 

A disappointing defeat at home to perennial bogey side Heanor Town still meant the Yellows had work to do.

Another visit to Coronation Park saw another victory this time over tenants Belper United and Hucknall were nearly safe.

Returning to the Notts Senior Cup saw a tie with one of Nottinghamshire's big local sides in Basford United. We couldn't could we?..........Again a superb first half performance saw two Bradley Wells' goals put the Yellows ahead at the break and they saw a second half out to produce a result that will live long in the memory of all Hucknall fans. It also installed a belief that we could go all the way and lift the cup.

Back to the league and a goalless draw at home to Skegness was followed by a superb performance at Melton Town where the Yellows scored six when it could easily have been double figures. It also made the Yellow's safe from any lingering relegation fears.

The rest of the season was pretty much immaterial apart from a certain Notts Senior Cup Final against Newark and Sherwood. Understandably performance levels dropped a little bit. A defeat at home to Newark Town was followed by a victory at home to Deeping Rangers. A last minute equaliser denied Yellows a victory at AFC Mansfield before victory at home to fellow senior cup finalists Newark and Sherwood followed though everyone there agreed the final would be a different proposition (no kidding).

A defeat at eventual play off winners Bourne Town and a last league game defeat at home to Kimberley which saw the visitors safe from relegation ended our league campaign which meant a comfortable 12th place finish. 

All roads led to Field Mill and a quite remarkable match saws us triumph on penalties after a 6 6 draw. Our never say die attitude tested to it's limits. 

The season's awards night saw "big Nige" scoop up most of the awards after an amazing season for the striker.

The new season began in disappointing fashion as we lost at home to newly promoted Blackstones despite dominating possession. 

A good win at Belper United followed and a welcome FA Cup victory at home to Yaxley made amends for the opening day defeat.

A  3 2 defeat followed at Newark Town was followed by a home win against Gresley. We bowed out of the FA Cup away at Basford despite a good first half the home team scored in the second  and we fell apart conceding 4 more to exit the competition.

The Yellows responded well defeating Boston Town at the RM in the FA Vase, drawing away at Grantham and winning at Melton Town to bring a busy August to a close. Lewis Belgrave earned the first Player of the Month award.

September began with the news that Niall Towle was out of action with a knee injury sustained in the FA Vase game against Boston. At the time it seemed innocuous but has resulted in our key player being ruled out for the season.

Results on the pitch didn't do much to lighten the situation as Sherwood demolished us at the RM and then further games against Boston saw them triumph at home in the Knock out cup and also win at the RM in the league. Further bad news followed when in the League Cup game Brad Lathall suffered his serious shoulder injury which has put him out of contention since. Hopefully a return is not to far away now. 

A stoppage time equaliser gave Ashby Ivanhoe a share of the spoils at the RM. More disappointment followed at Lutterworth Town when another late strike saw the Yellows exit. Ex Yellows keeper Luke Jeffrey playing his part in thwarting the Yellow's attack.

Just when it looked like September was going to be a total loss a good performance away at Newark and Sherwood (at Harrowby FC) saw the Yellows win and this was followed by yet another great performance at local rivals Eastwood with goals from Joey and Solace seeing us victorious.

Brad Wells won the player of the Month award for September really stepping up to the mark in light of Big Nige's absence.

October started with our usual defeat to bogey side Heanor Town at the RM before two home victories over Deeping Rangers and AFC Mansfield. Kimberley then came back to haunt us at the RM once again returning home victorious.

The month ended with another victory at Harrowby this time against the landlords. Another good away performance.

Player of the Month for October was Cash Rowe with some sterling performances.

There was very little action in November. A defeat at home to Belper raised some concerns about our home form which hasn't been the greatest in the first half of this season. In contrast our away form was one of the best in the division and this continued with a draw at Skegness.

The weather then intervened and forced a 17 day break. Whether the break played a part or not our return to action wasn't to be covered in glory. Heavy defeats at Gresley and Sherwood ended the month and gave the management plenty to think about as we dropped out of play off contention.

Due to lack of matches there was no award for player of the month for November and that it would be joined with the December award. 

December began with us bowing out of the Notts Senior Cup despite a very much improved performance. We were unable to hold on to a two goal lead and a stoppage time equaliser saw the game go to penalties which we eventually lost. No disgrace to lose to Nottingham's team of the moment Carlton Town. This however meant we were out of all the cup competitions.

Our Home form continued to be a worry with defeat at home to Melton Town. We finally beat Kimberley at Basford United and then ended the year with a draw at the RM against Clay Cross.

We end the year in 9th place which I am more than happy with. The home form concerns me with only 2 league wins at home so far this season. Thankfully our away form despite a couple of heavy defeats is still one of the best in the league. 

For the rest of the season we must look to improve the home form whilst maintaining the away record. I will be more than happy with a top ten finish but would like to get to the 40 point mark ASAP.

So happy new year to everyone connected to Hucknall Town FC lets hope 2026 is a good one for us.

REASON TO BE CHEERFUL AS YELLOWS COME FROM BEHIND TWICE TO DRAW WITH CLAY CROSS

 

HUCKNALL TOWN 2 CLAY CROSS TOWN 2

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH 

SATURDAY 27TH DECEMBER 2025

MATCH REPORT

A composed finish from Dylan Reason gave Hucknall Town a share of the spoils against a very good Clay Cross outfit who twice led before being pegged back by the Yellows.

TEAMS AND OFFICIALS: FROM THE OFFICIAL TEAM SHEET:

ATTENDANCE: 270

Hucknall lined up with new signing Ferdinand Bartley going straight into the side with Reece Sugars suspended. Brad Lathall was named on the bench as he recovers from his injury, one of only 3 subs named. Clay Cross named ex Yellows. goal keeper Frankie Shepard and Raife Poplar in their line up.

The first quarter of the game was scrappy with the visitors having the lions share of the possession and Hucknall looking to counter on the break. 

23 minutes saw Clay Cross deservedly take the lead. Alex Marshall's tight angled shot hitting the underside of the bar and ending up in the net.

The lead lasted only five minutes when Mahzi Simmons was upended in the box after a great run. Joey Ashurst stepped up and beat Shepard to his left to equalise.

Hucknall were buoyed by the equaliser and had a decent spell of possession with Dylan Reason catching the eye latching on to long balls over the top of midfield.

Just when it looked like being level at half time Hucknall old boy Raife Poplar picked up the ball outside the box and his low drive found the corner of the net past the despairing dive of Smith-Eccles.

Half Time : Hucknall 1 Clay Cross 2

Hucknall came out in determined mood and only had to wait 2 minutes into the half to find another equaliser. Another long ball was controlled by Reason who ran into the box and supplied a composed finish past Shepard. A really good goal from the youngster.

Aarron Coyle then saw a speculative effort go just wide from distance.

55 mins saw captain Short go off for Myles for an apparent trapped nerve issue. 

Clay Cross responded by looking for a winner and the home keeper Smith-Eccles produced a fine save from close range to keep the scores level on 58 minutes. A couple of minutes after he was down for quite a while but was able to carry on after treatment.

65 mins saw Wells replace Tefera.

Clay Cross were in no mood to settle for a draw and this made for an exciting end to proceedings. Reason again went close on 76 minutes but Shepard made a good save.

Both keepers were kept busy with Smith-Eccles saving well on his line and Shepard having to tip over a cross.

Right at the death Smith-Eccles was on hand again to make a superb save and it was enough to seal a point for the Yellows. In my opinion a fair result but Clay Cross probably edged the contest without finding a winner.

My man of the match for the Yellows was Dylan Reason for his great finish and all round performance. Goal keeper Smith-Eccles also in the frame and i thought Bartley did well on his debut performance for the Yellows.

So that brings football for the Yellows to a close for 2025 and we begin 2026 with a visit to Blackstones looking to avenge our seasons opening day defeat at the RM. 

Since the game Hucknall have brought in midfielder Dan Tuck from Kimberley MWFC. Welcome to the Yellows Dan.

CLAY CROSS AT THE RM ENDS ANOTHER YEAR FOR THE YELLOWS

 HUCKNALL TOWN V CLAY CROSS TOWN

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

SATURDAY 27TH DECEMBER 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH PREVIEW

Clay Cross are the final visitors to the RM for 2025 in what has been a memorable year for the Yellows. Clay Cross were promoted from Division 1 last Season as Champions and are lying in 14th spot. This is a bit of a false position as they have played the fewest games of anyone in the division (18)and they have games in hand on both teams above and below them. Their league record reads:

played 18 winning 8 drawing 1 and losing 9 with a gd of plus 9

It's an odd stat that they are the only ones with a positive goal difference outside the top 5 despite losing more than they have won. 

Victories have come against Wisbech (home 3 0) on opening day, Harrowby (home 5 0), Ashby Ivanhoe (away 2 0), Skegness (home 4 0), Boston Town (away 4 3), Gresley Rovers (home 2 0), Heanor Town (away 4 1) and AFC Mansfield (away 2 1) on Saturday.

The single draw came in a Goal Less game away at Sherwood second game in. There are some impressive results in there.

Defeats have come against Grantham Town (home 1 2), Heanor Town (home 1 4), AFC Mansfield (home 2 3), Kimberley (home 1 2), Newark Town (away 2 3), Melton Town away 2 3), Eastwood (away 2 4), Belper United (home 1 2) and Eastwood (home 1 2).

in the cups:

FA Cup: beat Tividale (away 3 1) before defeat at Shepshed Dynamo (0 2) saw them exit.

FA Vase: Beat GNG Oadby Town (away 6 1)only to be thrown out of the competition for playing an ineligible player. Oadby went on to beat Nuneaton Town in the next Round where they will play Coventry United away in the 4th Round.

League KO cup: Beat Radford (home 6 2), Beat Gedling MW (home 7 2)and Gresley (away 7 0). They have Kimberley away in the next Round

Derbyshire Senior Cup: Beat South Normanton (away 3 0) but lost at Gresley (2 4) only a week after beating them 7 nil in the league cup tie.

Hucknall will be looking to build on their victory over Kimberley on Saturday and improve their home results in the process.

Hucknall's record reads

Played 22 winning 9 drawing 3 and losing 10 with a GD of minus 2

This puts them in 9th spot on 30 points.

There isn't much recent history between the 2 sides and you would need to go bsack to our CML days to find the last fixture between the two sides.

FESTIVE CHEER FOR YELLOWS AS KIMBERLEY BOGEY PUT TO THE SWORD

 KIMBERLMWFC 0 HUCKNALL TOWN 2

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

SATURDAY 20TH DECEMBER 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH REPORT

Hucknall finally laid their Kimberley bogey side to rest with a hard fought 2 nil victory at Greenwich Avenue Basford, Kimberley's temporary home. Goals from Dylan Reason and Aarron Coyle either side of half time were enough to see off a Kimberley side restricted to one shot on target in the entire game.

Teams:

Kimberley: 

 Hucknall: 

Attendance: 184

Match Officials: Dylan Adams, Rachael Mee, Stewart Walker

 

Hucknall started brightly pressurising the Kimberley defence from the off with Joey Ashurst and Dylan Reason catching the eye early doors. Hucknall thought they had taken the lead on 12 minutes when the home keeper made a good save following a Hucknall corner. Despite appeals from the Yellow's players the Referee ruled that the ball hadn't crossed the line.

Reason then had a shot on 17 mins but dragged it just wide.

Kimberley upped their tempo and began to force the Yellows back and really should have taken the lead on 20 mins but the home player shot straight at Smith-Eccles in the Hucknall goal. It proved to be the home sides only effort on goal despite several chances, the next of which was well wide on 23 mins.

Kimberley continued to press causing the Yellows to pick up two yellows, First to see a card was Sugars for a high tackle on 25 mins followed by Jaine for a pull back on 27 mins.

The game entered a period where defences dominated until the impressive Reason put Hucknall ahead on 37 mins. A goal I completely missed due to talking to Dazza about Sheffield Wednesday's woes.

Reason again went close just before half time with a good effort that went just wide before the home keeper saved from both Reason and Parkes to keep the half time lead down to just the single goal.

Half Time: Kimberley 0 Hucknall 1

Kimberley came out for the second half on the front foot but went 2 goals down on 48 mins when Coyle was played through on goal by Ashurst. The ex Kimberley striker still had plenty to do but unleashed a powerful shot. Ben Allsopp in the home goal got his hands to the ball but couldn't prevent it from going in much to the pleasure of the away support.

One of the most pleasing aspects for the Yellow's was their defence today. Kimberley pressed but really created very little and indeed Hucknall looked the more likely to score again. 

On the hour mark Captain Short was replaced by Cash Rowe and he got deserved applause as he left the pitch. Kimberley had a dangerous looking free kick on 69 but the set piece was well defended and it looked today that work on the training field was paying dividends.

Further changes game on 70 mins when Ashurst and Tefera came off again to applause for their efforts being replaced by Wells and Myles. 

Belgrave picked up a Yellow for the team stopping a quick break on 74 mins.

The impressive Reason who was my Man of the Match was replaced by Lindo on 79 minutes.

Kimberley huffed and puffed but Hucknall's game management was spot on today and they ran down the clock to record a good victory on the road a laid the Kimberley hoodoo to rest in doing so.

The result saw the Yellows move up to 9th 3 points behind Kimberley who remained in 5th despite the defeat having both played 22 games.

Next up for the Yellows is Clay Cross at the RM on the 27th December 3 pm KO.

So a very Happy Christmas to everyone associated with Hucknall Town FC. Have a good one folks.

YELLOWS HOPING FOR CHRISTMAS CHEER AT BOGEY SIDE KIMBERLEY

KIMBERLEY MINERS WEFARE V HUCKNALL TOWN

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH 

 SATURDAY DECEMBER 20TH 2025 15.00 KO

(AT GREENWICH AVENUE BASFORD)

MATCH PREVIEW

Hucknall travel to Greenwich Avenue Basford, Kimberley's temporary home hoping not only to get back on track after a series of disappointing results but also put an end to Kimberley's dominance in this fixture both home and away. The Yellows have failed to take a single point off Kimberley since our move to the UCL. Indeed you would have to go back to our East Midlands Counties days when Hucknall won 5 2 at our old Watnall Road Ground and even that result was expunged from the record due to Covid ending that season prematurely.  

Kimberley stayed up on the last day of last season when comfortably winning 3 nil at the RM and carried on the victories against the Yellows by returning to the RM in October and once again took all the points in a 2 1 success.

Kimberley have fared much better in this campaign and lie in 5th spot with a record that reads

Played 21 winning 10 drawing 3 and losing 8 with a GD of plus 6

As with Hucknall though it has been a topsy turvy season for the Stags ending their own poor run of results with victory over AFC Mansfield last weekend. Since their victory over the Yellows they failed to pick up another league victory for 7 games until last weekend. 

This period also saw them exit the Notts Senior Cup, losing 4 1 at home to very much in form Retford United. There was also defeat in the FA Vase Losing 3 1 at Hanley Town.

They remain in the League Knock out Cup having beaten Retford United on penalties after a 1 1 draw. They face Clay Cross Town in the next round. 

In the FA Cup Kimberley went out early doors following a 2 nil defeat at Boston in August.

Hucknall's record now reads

played 21 winning 8 drawing 3 and losing 10. with a GD of minus 3

The Yellows form since the excellent 4 nil win at Harrowby has been disappointing and a little concerning. 6 games have failed to register a single victory. A draw at home to Skegness has been the only point gained in five league games and an exit in our defence of the Notts Senior cup albeit against a very good Carlton team and our best performance in this period. Of concern in that time we have conceded sixteen times with half of those coming in very similar fashion from corners. 

I'm sure that Tris and Largey will have been equally concerned and hopefully these frailties will have been worked on. I'm looking forward to tomorrows game and think the 4g pitch will be beneficial as we have on the whole played well on these surfaces this season, even in the Basford FA Cup game we did well until Basford showed their class. 

In squad news the enforced break has allowed a few niggles in the squad to clear. CJ Dunkley has gone to Sandiacre Town in a bid to find fitness and indeed he scored last weekend. Goal Keeper Frankie Shepard has left for Clay Cross in search of first team football. He did very well for us when Alfie was out injured and we wish him all the best as we do CJ.

 

YELLOW'S FACE UPHILL TASK IN QUEST TO BOUNCE BACK AFTER HEAVY DEFEAT AT GRESLEY

 SHERWOOD COLLIERY V HUCKNALL TOWN

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

SATURDAY 29TH NOVEMBER 2025

MATCH PREVIEW

Hucknall travel to Debdale Lane on Saturday to face one of the title favourites looking to bounce back after a heavy league defeat at Gresley on Tuesday night. Given the Yellows away form this season maybe the result was unexpected but certainly the performance would cause concern. This game will most definitely be an easy one with Sherwood themselves being the last side to put five in the Yellow's net back in September at the RM. 

Sherwood have a league record of;

Played 17 winning 11 drawing 3 and losing 3 with a GD of plus 26

They lie in second spot a point behind leaders Boston Town but having played 2 games less. They themselves suffered a surprise defeat at Newark & Sherwood on Tuesday a result which once again shows there are no easy games in this league if you are not on your game. 

The other 2league losses came at Eastwood CFC back in August (2 3) and at home to Belper United (1 4)

In the Cups:

FA Cup: Beat Bugbrooke ST Michaels (home 4 1) Anstey Nomads (home 3 1) before a heavy defeat (0 8) saw them exit at Quorn.

FA Vase: Beat South Normanton Athletic (away 4 1), Easington Sports (away 3 0) and Dudley Town (home 1 )).They have Retford United at home in the next rouns.

League Knockout cup: Beat Stapleford Town (home 4 1) before losing to Boston Town (home 1 2)

Notts Senior Cup:  Lost on penalties after a 2 2 draw at Basford United.

Hucknall's league record now reads:

Played 19 winning 8 drawing 3 and losing 8 with GD of Plus 3 to lie in 7th.

Whilst the 8 defeats stat is disappointing at the half way stage of the league season I think most would be happy with the league position.

Expecting a very difficult game today against a really good side. One where we really need to play well.if we are to get anything from the game. 

HUCKNALL ON THE ROAD AGAIN AFTER HOME POSTPONEMENTS

 WISBECH TOWN V HUCKNALL TOWN 

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 22ND 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH PREVIEW

Hucknall Town are back on the road this weekend after having two home games postponed because of the adverse weather. The Yellows earned a very hard fought for point in their last outing at Skegness a fortnight ago and travel to Wisbech hoping to continue their excellent away form.

Wisbech lie in 10th place in the league with a record of:

Played 17 winning 7 drawing 2 and losing 8 with a GD of minus 7

Their season began with a 3 nil away defeat at Clay Cross but this was followed by 2 impressive home wins over teams currently in the top 5. A 2 1 win over the current leaders Boston Town was followed up by a 4 3 win over Kimberley MWFC. A 1 1 draw followed away to another top five side Grantham followed by a 2 1 home win against Harrowby. This put the Fenmen amongst the early season front runners. Skegness Town delivered their first home league defeat by winning 2 1 at the Fenland Stadium.

Wisbech responded by beating Newark & Sherwood 2 nil at home and Melton Town at home by the same scoreline.

Wisbech then travelled to Boston Town where the home team gained revenge for their early season defeat by inflicting a 7 2 defeat on the Fenmen.

Three more league defeats followed, Sherwood (away 0 1)Blackstones (home 2 3) and Ashby Ivanhoe (away 1 3).

An excellent 1 nil win at Grantham put an end to the run of defeats but 2 more followed, Skegness completing the double by winning 2 0 at home and Newark Town winning 3 2 at Wisbech. A decent 2 1 victory at AFC Mansfield was followed up with a goal less draw at Newark Town in their last game also a fortnight ago.

In the Cups:

FA Cup Lost 3 2 away at Haverhill Rovers

FA Vase Beat Woodbridge Town 3 1 at home, Harleston Town 2 1 away before losing 6 1 at home to Harpenden Town 

League Knock Out Cup. Lost 3 0 at home to Newark Town

Hucknall go into the game with a league record that reads

Played 18 winning 8 drawing 3 and losing 7 with a GD of plus 7

Despite not playing for the last 2 weeks the Yellows remain in 6th spot. Going into this game Hucknall have signed 2 players, John-Paul McHugh (midfield) and Dylan Reason (forward) who both have an excellent pedigree. We wish them both a warm welcome to the Yellows.

Safe travels to all going to Wisbech for what should be a competitive game.

Useful Links.

Address:Fountain Fresh Park

Lynn Road

Wisbech

Cambridgeshire

PE14 7AL

Weather Forecast: Light rain and a moderate breeze at KO time. At the time of writing there is no planned pitch inspection so all looks good.

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wisbech_Town_F.C.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wtfcnews/

Twitter (X): https://x.com/wisbechtownfc  

HUCKNALL HOPING FOR POINTS BY THE SEASIDE

 SKEGNESS TOWN V HUCKNALL TOWN

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

SATURDAY 8TH NOVEMBER 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH PREVIEW

Hucknall travel to Skegness Town this Saturday hoping to maintain their fine away form. The Yellows have lost just once away in the league so far this season, a 3 2 reverse at Newark Town. This is in stark contrast to their home form and such is the nature of the UCL fixture list Skegness will be the next league visitors to the RM next week.

Skegness are exactly the reverse being strong at home but far from it away.

The Lily Whites record so far this season reads:

played 16 winning 6 drawing 3 and losing 7 with a GD of minus 6

Their season began with a 5 3 home defeat against Newark Town. This was followed by a 2 1 victory at Blackstones on the following Tuesday who had beaten the Yellows on opening day.

A 3 2 defeat at Gresley followed and then a home 4 2 win at home to Harrowby.

Their first draw was a 1 1 at home to Eastwood. A 2 1 win at Wisbech was followed by another 1 1 draw at Deeping Rangers. Two home games followed, a 2 nil win against Newark & Sherwood and a 2 2 draw versus Grantham. Up to that point the away form was okay but four away defeats have followed, a 4 0 defeat at Clay Cross, 3 1 at Melton, 4 2 at AFC Mansfield and 4 0 at Ashby on their last outing.

They also suffered a 2 1 home reverse v Deeping Rangers before a 3 1 win against Blackstones and a 2 nil win against Wisbech steadied the ship.

All of this places Skegness in 12th spot on 21 points five behind Hucknall but having played a game less.

In the cups the Lily Whites haven't done so well despite an exceptional result in beating Lincoln United 2 1 in an FA Cup replay at Lincoln after the two sides had played out a 1 1 draw at Skegness. This had followed  a 2 0 home win in the previous round at home to Godmanchester Rovers. Skegness went out in the next round losing 5 0 at Redditch United. 

The FA Vase saw them surprisingly beaten 2 1 at home to GNG Oadby Town FC.

The League cup saw another home defeat 3 2 at home to Hucknall's old rivals Pinxton from Division 1.

The Lincolnshire Senior Trophy saw them lose 4 3 on penalties after a 1 1 draw at Louth Town.

Hucknall go into the game after another home league defeat last weekend which saw them drop out of the play off places into 6th spot but all of the top five have played fewer games.

Hucknall's record now reads

Played 17 winning 8 drawing 2 and losing 7 with a GD of plus 7.

Should be a good battle with decent home form coming up against decent away form.

Safe travels to all associated with Hucknall Town of which I will be one.

Useful Links: 

Address: MKM Stadium

Wainfleet Road

Skegness

Lincolnshire

PE25 2EL

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skegness_Town_A.F.C.

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/skegnesstownafc

Twitter: https://x.com/skegnesstownfc

Weather Forecast at Kick Off: Sunny Intervals and light winds (BBC Website) 

YELLOWS LOSE AGAIN AT THE RM AS BELPER ARE SPOT ON

 HUCKNALL TOWN 0 BELPER UNITED 1

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

SATURDAY 1ST NOVEMBER 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH REPORT

TEAMS:

HUCKNALL TOWN:         BELPER UNITED:

OFFICIALS:

Stuart Mallows, Michal Mrozek, Christopher Hughes

ATTENDANCE: 204

Hucknall were dealt their 6th home league defeat of the season as a 77th minute penalty for the visitors proved decisive.

Hucknall made one change from the starting eleven at Harrowby as Joe Ashurst replaced CJ Dunkley who dropped to the bench. 

Belper had ex Yellow Daniel Odunaiya in their starting eleven.

The first half was pretty much a non event with both teams defending well and the home faithful had to wait until the 37th minute for the first effort on goal. Aaron Coyle's well hit shot was well saved by Fryatt in the Belper goal but lower or higher the shot would have found the net. Belper came into the game more after that chance but Smith-Eccles wasn't troubled in the home goal though Dillon Rawson had to be alert to clear off the line on 42 minutes.

Half Time: Hucknall 0 Belper United 0

Two minutes after the restart Sugars wnt close from an Ashurst corner but it was just wide. That was pretty much the only highlight for the Yellows as Belper began to win the physical battles.

Changes were made on 62 minutes with Dunkley and Wells replacing Tefera and Lindo.

The game seemed to be heading for a stalemate as neither keeper was being troubled but Belper broke quickly down the right and Sugars in a desperate attempt to win the ball only succeeded in bringing the Belper player down in the area to give the visitors a penalty.

Smith-Eccles dived the right way but was beaten by the pace and placement of the penalty by Belper's player/manager Alex Steadman.

A further change was made by Hucknall on 81 minutes when Short replaced Simmons but despite plenty of effort by the Yellows the away goal remained unthreatened and Belper returned home with the points.

This was Belper's 4th league win on the bounce and they joined the yellows on 26 points but having played a game less. Hucknall dropped out of the play off spots to 6th but have played more games than any of the 5 teams above them. No midweek game for the Yellows with a visit to Skegness waiting next Saturday where Hucknall will be looking to maintain their fine away form. Quite why the home form is so disappointing is open to debate but surely needs to improve if a play off push is to be maintained.

Taylor Jaine was awarded the Man of the Match and Cash Rowe the Player of the Month for October. 

 

YELLOWS LOOK TO CEMENT PLAY OFF SPOT AS BELPER VISIT TOWN

HUCKNALL TOWN V BELPER UNITED

GCE HIRE FLEET PREMIER NORTH DIVISION

SATURDAY 1ST NOVEMBER 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH PREVIEW

After a fine away victory at Harrowby which moved the Yellows into the play off positions Hucknall will be looking to cement that spot as Belper United visit the RM Stadium.

Belper lie in 7th position 3 points behind Hucknall but having played a game less. Their league record this season reads as follows;

Played 15 winning 7 drawing 2 and losing 6 with a GD of plus 2

The season didn't start off too well for Belper losing their opening fixture away 4 1 at Grantham and then losing by the same scoreline at home to the Yellows the following Tuesday. Another defeat followed at Coronation Park as Harrowby emerged 3 2 winners. 

Belper finally got points on the board with victories over Newark & Sherwood (away 2 0) and Gresley (home 2 1). 

Kimberley MW then inflicted another defeat (2 3 away)before Ashby recorded their first points of the season with a 4 1 home win. A 3 3 draw with landlords Eastwood was followed by a fine 4 1 away triumph at highly fancied Sherwood Colliery.

Belper then played AFC Mansfield home and away exchanging 1 nil scorelines at the respective home games. Sandwiched in between was a goal less draw at Deeping Rangers.

Belper have since found a purple patch which has significantly improved their league position with 3 successive league victories coming into Saturdays game. 

Newark Town were soundly beaten 4 1 away, Melton town at home by the same scoreline and Clay Cross away 2 0 last weekend.

In the cups Belper have done reasonably well.

The FA Cup saw them beat Uttoxeter 2 1 at home before a 5 2 defeat followed also at home to Hanley Town.

The FA Vase saw a 3 0 home win against Saffron Dynamo and a 3 0 win at Clipstone before losing 1 nil at home to Dudley Town.

The League cup saw them go out at the first hurdle losing 2 nil at Bugbrooke. 

The Derbyshire Senior cup saw them defeat Staveley MW on penalties after a 1 1 draw at home. They face Heanor Town away in the next round.

Hucknall's league record now reads as 

Played 16 winning 8 drawing 2 and losing 6 with a GD of plus 8

Hucknall have one of the best away league records in the division having only lost once on their travels whilst their home form has been much less impressive having lost 5 league games at home and only winning 3. This does cause concern and needs to improve if the play offs are to be achieved. 

Belper will be tough opposition and come to the RM on form so it should be an interesting encounter.

YELLOWS MOVE INTO PLAY OFF SPOTS AS JOEY HITS HOME ON SPECIAL DAY

 HUCKNALL TOWN 2 DEEPING RANGERS 1

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

SATURDAY 18TH OCTOBER 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH REPORT

TEAMS AND OFFICIALS:

ATTENDANCE: 194

Before the game there was a presentation to mark Joe Ashurst's 300th appearance for the Yellows spanning 10 years when he was signed by Andy Graves when Hucknall were in the Central Midlands League. Despite having numerous 'offers' over the years Joey has stopped loyal to the Yellows and also chipped in 107 goals. A massive favourite with the fans who sing 'he's one of our own'. Well done on this marvellous milestone Joey and thankyou for your loyalty and efforts.

Hucknall moved into the play off spots with a last gasp victory against a dogged Deeping Rangers side who will feel disappointed not to have held on for a point. 

Hucknall fielded the same starting 11 (for the first time this season) that started against AFC Mansfield last week. Although the injury list has shortened key players are still missing in Sims, Lathall, Towle, and Belgrave and also suspended Uyi-Olaye.

Deeping also had a few players missing due to injuries.

The first half started with both sides cancelling each other out but it was interesting that the visitors defended with a much higher back line than AFC Mansfield last week this allowed Hucknall to use both wings effectively with both full backs Dillon Rawson and in particular Cash Rowe having plenty of the ball.

Aaron Coyle produced a long range effort on 20 mins that went just wide which was the first real effort of the game. 

Joe Ashurst then had an effort on target from Rowe's cross but if anything he hit it too well straight at the keeper.

Rangers having weathered the early pressure stepped it up a gear and could easily have taken the lead. Home keeper Smith-Eccles called into action on the half hour mark saving with his leg when Arber was through on goal. It was a good chance for the visitors. 

Barnes then blasted over for Rangers when well placed on the edge of the box. The home keeper was tested again but Cook's effort was tame and Hucknall survived. 

Hucknall then had a period of possession five minutes before the break with Aaron Coyle's smart back heel was defended well. Ashurst then had another effort straight at the visiting keeper. 

Just as the half looked like being a stalemate Hucknall were awarded a penalty for handball. The Rangers defender went to head a ball in the area but missed with his head, the ball then striking his arm though there was no intent the official pointed at the spot.

I think there was always going to be one player taking the penalty and sure enough captain for the day Joey Ashurst stepped up and put the penalty away for his 108th goal on his 300th appearance. 

There was still time for Goodley to head over the bar for the visitors before the half time whistle blew. The visitors could consider themselves unlucky to be behind at the break.

Half Time: HUCKNALL 1 DEEPING RANGERS 0

The second half began with what at first looked like a serious head injury to a Rangers player but after lengthy treatment he got up and carried on but the six minutes treatment time was significant.

Hucknall seemed to lose momentum as the half went on and the visitors pressed for an equaliser. 

It came on 64 mins when Deeping were awarded a soft free kick out wide on the left and Hucknall's achilles heel this season struck again as from the set piece Harrison Dee rose highest to send the ball over the home keeper into the net. At this point the visitors deserved their goal. 

I have been a critic of some of the substitutions and the timings of them this season but changes were really needed and so they came. Short coming on for Rawson on 73 mins quickly followed by Myles and Simmons being replaced by Dunkley and Tefera two minutes later.

On 78 mins Coyle's powerful effort was saved by the visiting keeper and the corner came to nothing. 

The most telling substitution came on 83 mins with Trev Lindo replacing Ashurst.

Lindo's first contribution was to earn a free kick out wide but this came to nothing. The Yellows showed no desire to settle for a point which was good to see and Rangers were getting Frustrated. Dunkley was fouled which earned a yellow card for the Rangers player.

Lindo then just failed to get on the end of Rowe's cross.

7 minutes were added on mainly for the earlier head injury and right at the death another cross from the impressive Cash Rowe was met with a sublime touch from Lindo which found the back of the net sparking delirious celebrations from the players and home faithful. 

There was no time for the visitors to respond and the final whistle blew.

FULL TIME :HUCKNALL TOWN 2 DEEPING RANGERS 1

 The win moved Hucknall up to 5th with a key league game coming up on Wednesday night when third placed Kimberley MWFC are the visitors to the RM. 

Deeping are in 12th place and I wish them well for the remainder of the season. 

The Man of the Match award was presented to Cash Rowe by our chairman Bob after the game. His second MOTM award of the season and well merited. 

YELLOWS LOOKING UPWARDS AS DEEPING RANGERS VISIT THE RM

 HUCKNALL TOWN V DEEPING RANGERS

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

SATURDAY 18TH OCTOBER 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH PREVIEW

Deeping Rangers visit the RM Stadium today in a game that is difficult to predict. Rangers come with a league record this season that reads

Played 13 winning 4 drawing 5 and losing 4 with a GD of minus 7

After last seasons battle against relegation Rangers started this seasons campaign off with 2 victories. On opening day they beat Ashby Ivanhoe 1 nil and followed that up with another home victory in midweek, a 4 nil victory against Harrowby. A 1 1 home draw against Skegness followed 

However a 6 nil defeat at title contenders Sherwood Colliery followed and a goal less stalemate at Blackstones after that.

Melton Town then hot 5 against them with a consolation goal for the visitors. 

Then came a victory against another of the title contenders Grantham town at home, the only goal of the game proving decisive. 

AFC Mansfield provided another defeat this time 3 2 at the Forest Arena before a run of 4 league games unbeaten began with draws away at Newark and Sherwood (2 2) and home to league leaders Boston Town (1 1) and Belper united (0 0). The draws were followed up with a 2 1 victory at Skegness Town. The unbeaten run was brought to an end by Kimberley MW with a 3 nil home defeat.

In the Cups Rangers lost at home 3 0 to Wellingborough Town in the FA Cup. In the FA Vase they had a 5 nil victory at home versus Allexton and New Parks FC before bowing out also at home 2 3 to Hucknall's old rivals Aylestone Park.

In the League Cup Division 1 high flyers Retford United won by the only goal at Retford. 

Rangers are still in the Lincolnshire Senior Trophy after defeating Pinchbeck 2 nil at home and are still in a local cup, the Hinchingbrooke Trophy.

Hucknall's league record now reads

Played  13 winning 6 drawing 2 and losing 5 with a GD of plus 4 to lie in 6th spot.

As mentioned previously this is a hard one to call as Deeping are certainly capable of winning this game  The Yellows will be looking for a victory of their own in a bid to join the play off spots.

Should be a good game. Safe Travels to everyone associated with our visitors today.

YELLOWS AT LAST VICTORIOUS OVER THE BULLS

 HUCKNALL TOWN 2 AFC MANSFIELD 0

GCE FLEET HIRE UCL PREMIER NORTH

SATURDAY 11TH OCTOBER 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH REPORT

TEAMS AND OFFICIALS:

ATTENDANCE: 324

A week after coming up against and losing once more to bogey side Heanor Town the Yellows played another side they have failed to beat in recent times although a couple of draws have been achieved. So it was with a sense of relief that finally Hucknall produced a performance against the Bulls that was more than worthy of the victory though they had to show patience against a side that set their stall out to defend in numbers and try and catch the Yellows on the break. 

Hucknall's long injury list seems to have eased a little looking at the team selection. Reece Sugars partnered Taylor Jaine as centre backs and Aaron Short and CJ Dunkley were named as substitutes. Goal keeper Alfie Smith-Eccles returned to the side in place of Frankie Sheperd. Recent signing Aaron Coyle started upfront ater his debut goal last week. There was also a place on the bench for new signing Nelson Aideyan which meant 3 centre backs on the bench. Lewis Belgrave missed the game through injury but Lewis Parkes started despite his hamstring scare last week.

Straight from the off it was obvious that AFC Mansfield had set their stall out to be defensive and so Hucknall had the lions share of the possession. Simmons produced a save from Turton in the home goal in the 5th minute but despite a few corners and long range efforts that was as close as Hucknall got in the half. 

The Bulls spurned a great opportunity on 40 minutes but the ball was put wide of the post much to the Yellows relief.

Half Time: Hucknall 0 AFC Mansfield 0

The second half was pretty much the same with Hucknall dominating possession but creating very little and the home defence snuffing out any threat from the visitors.

On the hour mark CJ Dunkley came on for Mahzi Simmons as the home side looked to freshen things up. 

Sugars had a long range effort on 66 minutes but it was over the bar.

Hucknall thought the deadlock was broken on 70 minutes when from a corner the ball was hooked in  but despite protests from the players and particularly the home supporters the Linesman's flag had been raised and the goal was chalked off.

However the disallowed goal seemed to inspire the Yellows and 3 minutes later they did take the lead.  Cash Rowe was brought down just outside the box and the resulting free kick was swung into the box to be met by a Taylor Jaine header which found the net and sparked jubilant celebrations with the players and fans.

The Bulls upped their game in response but found a Yellow wall when attacking with both Sugars and Jaine outstanding at the back. 

Short came on for Rawson as the game entered added on time to bolster the defence.

Hucknall had another goal disallowed by a linesman's flag  but once again scored straight after the decision. Aaron Coyle was played through on goal and his low right foot shot from the edge of the box took a wicked deflection to beat Turton in the Bull's goal to seal the points.

Hucknall moved back to 6th position whilst the visitors remained one place above the relegation zone despite Ashby Ivanhoe's victory. 

The match sponsors gave their Man of the Match award to Taylor Jaine but as mentioned both centre backs were outstanding. Maybe Taylor's goal just swung it his way.

There was also a presentation to Brad Wells who was our player of the Month for September. 

Next up is another home league game against Deeping Rangers next Saturday.