YELLOWS FACE BOTTOM SIDE ASHBY IN SEARCH OF MUCH NEEDED POINTS

 HUCKNALL TOWN V ASHBY IVANHOE

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

WEDNESDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER 2025 19.45 KO

MATCH PREVIEW

Hucknall host Ashby Ivanhoe hoping the the Indian sign they hold over the Knights continues.

In a remarkable run of results since the Yellow's promotion to the Premier North Hucknall have been victorious in all four league games. Both games last season ended 1 0 to Hucknall and even in our first season back at step 5 Town recorded 2 1 victories in both games which certainly helped us remain in the division despite only winning 4 games all season.

Ashby started poorly last year before staging a remarkable recovery eventually finishing 9th. This season has started in similar fashion losing their first seven games. The rot was ended with a 4 1 home win against Belper United this being followed up with a creditable 2 2 draw away at high flying Kimberley MW (at Basford United FC)

The defeats came against Deeping Rangers (away 0 1), Eastwood CFC (home 1 3), Boston Town (home 1 2), Melton Town (away 2 3), Heanor Town (home 1 2), Clay Cross (home 0 2) and Blackstones (away 0 3)

In the FA Cup the Knights lost 1 nil at Worcester Raiders. They play Nuneaton Griff in their first game in this seasons FA Vase on Saturday and they beat West Bridgford 3 1 away in the league cup to progress to the next round where they will play Northampton O N Chenecks at home.

Their league record so far is

Played 9 winning 1 drawing 1 and losing 7 with a GD of minus 8

This compares with the Yellows record of

Played 8 winning 3 drawing 1 and losing 4 with a GD of minus 3

The Yellows go into the game still with key players missing through injury but with Omreiki Myles returning to the club and Charlie Cheatham and Morgan Scott joining on work experience from Mansfield Town the Management have options.

Safe Travels to everyone making the journey from North Leicestershire.

BOSTON HAVE A TEA PARTY AS THEY TAKE THE POINTS........

 HUCKNALL TOWN 1 BOSTON TOWN 3

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

SATURDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH REPORT

TEAMS: hUCKNALL TOWN:

1 ALFIE SMITH-ECCLES 2 CASHMERE ROWE 3 MAZHI SIMMONS 4 REECE SUGARS 5 AARON SHORT (CAPT) 6 TAYLOR JAYNE 7 JOE ASHURST 8 LUIS PARKES 9 BRAD WELLS 10 LEWIS BELGRAVE 11 SURAFEL TEFERA

SUBS: 12 DILLON RAWSON 14 SOLACE UYIOLAYE 15 MIKAH SKERVIN 16 KYLE PEMBERTON 17 RUEBEN FOGG

BOSTON TOWN: 

OFFICIALS: 

RICHARD GRAVES, STEPHEN HINES, IAN WILKINSON

ATTENDANCE: 256

Boston deservedly took the points home and won the mini series between the 2 sides by 2 games to 1. Thankfully we aren't scheduled to play them again until April. Despite knowing what Boston bring to the table, being very direct and utilising long throws into the box Hucknall were again unable to contain them and at the other end not really testing the visiting keeper despite some neat approach play.

Hucknall started with both Rowe and simmons playing in the wing back roles using 3 centre backs once more. There was a welcome return for Solace Uliolaye on the subs bench. Hucknall were without Towle. Lathall, Sims and Dunkley all on the treatment table.

There was a presentation before the start of the game to mark Captain Aaron Short's 200th appearance for the club.

photo courtesy of Paul Burley

The first half started with both sides struggling to gain an advantage and it took until the 25th minute for the first real action of the game. unfortunately for Hucknall it produced a goal for the visitors. Tate getting on the end of a cross and smashing the ball into the net from 10 yards.

Hucknall didn't really respond except for a cross from Rowe that had to be dealt with by the visiting keeper.

Hucknall's injury woes continued on 33 minutes when Tefera was forced off injured to be replaced by Uliolayi. 

Hucknall had a chance just before half time but Well's shot was straight at the keeper. 

Half Time Hucknall 0 Boston 1

Hucknall came out more determined and Belgrave very nearly brought the scores level with a long range effort that hit the post.

50 minutes in the visitors doubled their lead with Bayliss's overhead kick finding the target. 

Bayliss was unlucky on 57 seeing his effort come back off the crossbar. I must say that Bayliss is a fine player who has shone in all of the games.

On the hour mark Hucknall made changes with Ashurst and Simmons making way for Skervin and Rawson.

Hucknall were looking for a life line and got one on 66 mins when Brad Wells was adjudged to be fouled in the area .Olialaye marking his return with a great penalty to reduce the deficit to 1. 

Most games have turning points and the 74th minute provided one. Brad Wells was again fouled in the box except the referee declined the appeals despite it being more of a penalty claim than the first one. To make matters worse Boston went up the other end and practically put the game to bed with a third goal. Matt Cotton providing the finish from Bayliss's whipped in cross.

Belgrave and Wells were replaced by Pemberton and Fogg.

To Hucknall's credit they gave it a good go in the last 15 minutes but the damage had already been done. There was time for a nasty looking challenge on Reece Sugars with the home contingent in the stand convinced it was a red card challenge but Boston crowded the referee with claims the player had touched the ball which was enough for the referee to show just a yellow. Thankfully Sugars was able to carry on and looked okay. 

Full Time: Hucknall 1 Boston 3

Since the game Omreiki Myles has returned to the club from Clay Cross and Charlie Cheatham (midfield) and Morgan Scott (striker) have joined on an initial months work experience from Mansfield Town.

Next up is a home league game against Ashby Ivanhoe on Wednesday where the Yellows will look to get back to winning ways after recent disappointing results. 

Good Luck to Boston for the rest of the season. They are a solid side with some good supporters. I have enjoyed their company over the last couple of weeks. 

Hucknall's man of the match was Cash Rowe (£25.00 voucher for the ARC Cinema) and also the player of the Month for end of July/August was given to Lewis Belgrave for his 5 goals during the period.(£50.00 UK PUB voucher)

HUCKNALL WELCOME BOSTON TO THE RM FOR ROUND THREE

 HUCKNALL TOWN V BOSTON TOWN

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

SATURDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH PREVIEW

The Yellows return to league action on Saturday but the visitors will be very familiar. For the third time in as many weeks Hucknall face Boston this time for league points.

Hucknall won the first game 3 1 at the RM to progress in the FA Vase when Boston really didn't play like they can. Boston gained revenge last Saturday winning 2 nil at home to knock Hucknall out of the league cup when the Yellows made costly mistakes and Boston benefitted.

It could be argued that this is the most important game of the three. Yes it would be nice to have a good Vase run and the league cup isn't really high up on the list of priorities but three points is something both teams would like especially as Boston lie directly above Hucknall in the table(12th and 13th) and both would like to make ground on the teams above. 

Both teams have 10 points though Boston have played the fewest games of anybody in the division having only played 5 to Hucknall's 7. 

Boston have won 3 drawn 1 and lost 1 with a GD of plus 3 compared with Hucknall's played 7 winning 3 drawing 1 and losing 3 with a GD of minus 1

Hucknall go into the game with Niall Towle again missing as CJ Dunkley and Brad Lathall also probably out of contention as well. With Ethan Hulley and Max Scoular departed from the club the squad looks a bit thin. The addition of loan signing of Rueben Fogg from Boston United who made his debut in the last game eases the situation and I understand a couple of signings have also been made this week but know no details.

News that fans favourite Aaron Lamb has left the club to join Stapleford came in midweek. I really do wish Lamby all the very best and hopefully a full return to fitness will follow for him. 

I predict another tight game and wouldn't be at all surprised if it ends all square.

Safe travels to Boston's visiting players,staff and supporters.

BOSTON GET REVENGE FOR VASE EXIT AS HUCKNALL ERRORS CAUSE THE DAMAGE

 BOSTON TOWN 2 HUCKNALL TOWN 0

SPORTS GROUND DEVELOPMENT UCL CUP

SATURDAY 6TH SEPT 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH REPORT

TEAMS: BOSTON TOWN                   HUCKNALL TOWN

OFFICIALS;James Truman, Joanne Mackenzie, Giles Elson

ATTENDANCE: 70 (don't think they counted all the kids in the ground, which was nice to see)

Boston gained revenge for their FA Vase exit at the RM by knocking the Yellow's out of the League Cup but once again the opposition benefitted from errors made by the visitors. 

Once again key man Niall Towle was missing and he still hasn't had a much needed scan on his troublesome knee. (come on HTFC lets get this sorted). CJ Dunkley was also missing due to the hamstring injury picked up Wednesday. The management toyed with the formation playing 3 centre backs in Sort, Sugars and Jaine with Pemberton also available on the bench. Mahzi Simmon's started at wing back with Cash Rowe dropping to the bench.

Boston were the first to show with 2 early corners but the Yellow's defence stood firm.

Hucknall's first real chance fell to Brad Wells who shot from the edge of the box but the effort went wide.

18 mins saw a foul on Brad Lathall which caused him to fall on his shoulder. After lengthy treatment he had to leave the field and was taken to the local hospital. Update from the player himself is that it is a complete separation of the AC joint and tomorrow a visit to the QMC will determine whether surgery is required or not. Tefera came on as replacement.

22 mins saw a long range effort from Rawson go just wide for the Yellows.

31 mins saw Hucknall's biggest chance of the half followed as Skervin was through. The home keeper blocked his shot but the ball fell nicely to Wells who tried to place the ball in the top corner but put it over the bar.

Skervin had another effort on 38 mins but from a tight angle the keeper was able to easily save the effort.

A minute later Rawson played in Belgrave who's first time effort went wide.

The game was pretty even with Hucknall defending well including a 42nd minute free kick central and just outside the box which Smith-Eccles dealt with comfortably.

Just as it looked like the half would end in stalemate Boston took the lead and the Yellows will be really disappointed in its nature. From an Hucknall corner the ball was cleared to Parkes who was penalised for hand ball. Hucknall had players out of position and the hosts took advantage by taking the free kick quickly releasing Gibbons who evaded the defenders challenge before crossing to an unmarked Bayliss at the far post who smashed the ball home. 

Hucknall forced a corner just before the half time whistle blew but it came to nothing.

As the officials walked off the pith the Referee took objection to an expletive remark from a section of the away support. (i think most people heard the remark). He asked the stewards to remove the person from the ground. Unfortunately he got the wrong offender but the culprit was honest enough to own up and he did indeed leave the ground watching the second half from a tree behind the goal. More than likely this will end up on the referee's report and action will be taken. I know all of those involved and 99% of the time they offer great vocal support. Cut the 1 % out lads and get a rep for being great supporters. 

Half Time Boston Town 1 Hucknall Town 0

Hucknall made and early substitution on 53 mins when Skervin was replaced by Ethan Hulley. It is to be the last game in Yellow as Ethan is off to Dubai this week. Really wish Ethan all the best and personally thank him for taking the time out to encourage and support my grandson Charlie in his photographic pursuits. 

Further replacements for the Yellows followed on 59 mins as Rawson and Parkes were replaced by Rowe and debutant for Hucknall Fogg who is on a months loan from Boston United.

70 mins saw Pemberton replace Jaine.

The substitutions were becoming the highlight of the half with both teams enjoying possession but nothing much coming of it.

With 15 minutes left Hucknall pushed forward but despite earning a succession of corners failed to test the home keeper.

Hucknall's hopes of salvaging something were thwarted again by a defensive undoing. The impressive Bayliss taking advantage of a misplaced pass and finishing with aplomb to seal the game for hosts.

Five minutes were added but the Yellows were unable to make any efforts count.

Full Time: Boston Town 2 Hucknall Town 0

Hucknall once again were the architects of their own downfall. We are missing Niall no doubt about that and now we will have Brad Lathall out for a while along with CJ. 

Our next game is Round 3 with Boston at the RM in the league next Saturday.

I wish them well in the next round where they have drawn Sherwood Colliery away. 

                                                               

WOUNDED HUCKNALL LOOKING FOR LEAGUE CUP REMEDY

 BOSTON TOWN V HUCKNALL TOWN 

THE SPORTS GROUND DEVELOPMENT UCL CUP

SATURDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH PREVIEW

 

Hucknall make the long trip to Boston on the back of Wednesday night's defeat where they were put to the sword by a good Sherwood Colliery side.

They will be looking for a vast improvement performance wise but will not find it easy at a ground where we have been second best a few times and against a side who will be gunning for revenge for their recent FA Vase exit at the RM where they themselves produced a sub par performance. 

Boston have only played 5 league games, winning 3, drawing 1 and losing 1 with a GD of 3 just above the Yellows on the same number of points (10) as the Yellows GD took a battering on Wednesday.

Boston started their league campaign with a home draw with Heanor (2 2)and then a defeat at Wisbech (1 2). Since then 3 league wins have come against Ashby away (2 1)Newark Town at home (2 1) and AFC Mansfield at home (3 1).

In the FA Cup wins came against Kimberley MW at home (2 0) and Newark and Sherwood at home (4 1) after a 0 0 draw at Newark. A creditable 1 1 draw followed against Sporting Khalsa before bowing out 2 nil in the replay.

The FA Vase of course saw the Yellows triumph 3 1 at the RM.

Hucknall will have injury concerns once more with Striker Niall Towle out for the foreseeable future and CJ Dunkley going off at half time on Wednesday. The defensive selection will be an interesting one.

Safe Travels to everyone travelling.

HUCKNALL BLOWN AWAY BY FIVE STAR SHERWOOD

 HUCKNALL TOWN 0 SHERWOOD COLLIERY 5

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER DIVISION NORTH

WEDNESDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER 2025 19.45 KO

MATCH REPORT

TEAMS:        

OFFICIALS: Kieran Shaw, Barry Polkey, David Southern

ATTENDANCE: 275

Hucknall were just simply blown away by a Sherwood side looking for a response to a surprising FA Cup scoreline last weekend. The only blessing for the Yellows was a scoreline which could have been more.

Straight from the kick off Sherwood were at the Hucknall defence with a very high press not allowing Hucknall any time on the ball.

On 18 mins Hucknall gave the ball away under this pressure but Kyle Pemberton made a miraculous block.

On 25 mins Sherwood finally broke the deadlock when the ball was given away (a theme for the night) and the cross from Lobley was brought down by ex Yellow Kieran Knight before he slotted it home. Fair play he didn't celebrate.

Two minutes later the ball was in the Hucknall net again but the Assistant raised his flag to cancel the goal.

It was constant Sherwood pressure and it wasn't long a until the lead was doubled. On 35 Hucknall yet again gave the ball away cheaply but it was still a fine finish from Ryan Ingram.

Three minutes later Ingram had another shot which was parried to the edge of the box. Pearce providing the finish with a powerful shot.

Half time came and Hucknall's only shot of note was from Dunkley trying to catch the visiting keeper out at the near post but it was a comfortable save. 

Half time: Hucknall 0 Sherwood 3

Joe Ashurst came on for Dunkley at the start of the half. Dunkley having a hamstring problem.

Hucknall actually started the half better without achieving much but were come unstuck again with their defensive frailties. 

On 51 Ingram again finished well from Pearce's assist to make it 4.

On 63 Rowe was replaced by Mahzi Simmons and Tefera was replaced by Skervin.

Despite being better in this half Sherwood scored a fifth on 65 minutes with Ingram completing his hat trick slotting home after yet another defensive calamity. 

Short and Sugars replaced Pemberton and Jaine.

Sherwood were happy with 5 and despite some decent approach play Hucknall were unable to create anything and the Referee brought a very disappointing evening for the Yellows to a close.

I was very impressed with Sherwood and on this showing I believe they will go on to win the league. For the Yellows it was a lesson and a harsh one at that. I decided against awarding a MOTM even though we never let our heads drop we were simply beaten by a better side on the night. 

Next up is Boston away in the league cup on Saturday where the poachers will be looking to avenge their recent FA Vase exit at the RM.

                          

OLD FOES SHERWOOD NEXT UP AT THE RM

 HUCKNALL TOWN V SHERWOOD COLLIERY

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

WEDNESDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER 2025 19.45 KO

MATCH PREVIEW

Hucknall renew acquaintances with Sherwood Colliery on Wednesday night at the RM where the visitors will be looking to bounce back after a heavy defeat in the FA Cup at Quorn on Saturday. Whilst Quorn are a good side the scoreline certainly raised a few eyebrows.

Games between the two sides are always keenly contested from right back in our central midland days and I think this will be no different. 

After last seasons relegation Sherwood will be looking to bounce straight back to Step 4 and have had a lot of former players return to the Wood including Hucknall old boys Craig Westcarr and Kieran Knight. They certainly have a very strong squad. 

Currently lying in third spot in the league they do have a game in hand over leaders Kimberley and two in hand of second place Grantham and are only 2 points behind.

Their League record so far reads

Played 6 won 3 drawn 2 and lost 1 with a GD of plus 11.

Wins have come against Gresley Rovers away on opening day (5 1) at home to Deeping Rangers (6 0)

and Kimberley MW at home (2 0) draws have been Clay Cross Town at home (0 0) and Newark Town away (1 1). The defeat came away at Eastwood CFC (2 3).

The FA cup saw wins against Bugbrooke St Michaels at home (4 1) A fine win at home to step 4 Anstey Nomads (3 1) before bowing out at Quorn on Saturday (0 8). 

Sherwood are yet to play in the FA Vase but face a difficult tie at South Normanton Athletic in the next round.

Hucknall now lie in 8th spot just 1 point behind Sherwood having also played 6 games. Their league record is

Played 6 winning 3 drawing 1 and losing 2 with a GD of plus 4

Yellows will be looking to extend their unbeaten run of 3 games but this will be a stern test and they will need to be at their very best.

YELLOWS COME FROM BEHIND TO SNATCH VICTORY AT MELTON

 MELTON TOWN 1 HUCKNALL TOWN 2

GCH HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

SATURDAY 30TH AUGUST 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH REPORT

 

 

TEAMS:

MELTON TOWN: Ferdinand Bartley, Ryan Lee Calver, Toby Fura, Yaegan Kenzie Gore, William Harrison, Mikkel Hurst, Keenan Rakwarne King, Luther Munakandafa, Dominic Perkins, Theophilus Enlabasi Sowah Sackey-Mensah, Thomas Wakley.

Used subs:Kallis Gore, Tristan Ruben Burke

HUCKNALL TOWN:

OFFICIALS: Ali Cera, Mohammed Uddin, Rachael Mee.

Attendance: 167

Hucknall came from behind to snatch an unlikely victory where the hosts will be left wondering how they lost this game.

Hucknall started with Mahzi Simmons starting as full back and with Reece Sugars and Aaron Short unavailable Taylor Jaine and Kyle Pemberton started in Central Defence. With Niall Towle's injury now seeming long term Brad Wells started up front.

The first half was a battle of attrition with few clear cut chances. Hucknall went close on 17 minutes Brad Wells played in Lewis Belgrave who crossed across the box but a Melton defender produced a stunning clearance.

Melton had a chance on 29 but it was hit over before Belgrave's long range effort for the visitors was just too high. 

Melton were forced into a change on 37 with Gore replacing Gore.

Melton spurned a great chance just before half time with Alfie Smith-Eccles producing a great save to keep the ball out.

Half Time: Melton 0 Hucknall 0

Melton made another change on 46 with Burke replacing King.

Hucknall were the first to show second half with Mahzi Simmon's shooting just over from distance. 

Melton then had a period of sustained pressure where Hucknall kept giving the ball away needlessly and the home side made the Yellows pay by opening the scoring on 54 mins. TobyFura smashing the ball past Smith-Eccles from just outside the box.

It was one of those games that needed a goal and the Yellows responded with more urgency to equalise within 3 minutes. A stunning cross was met by in form Belgrave who's great header gave the home keeper no chance.

Melton responded on 60 minutes with Taylor Jaine producing a stunning block to deny Melton a certain goal.

Hucknall replaced Simmons with Rawson on 62 mins.

Again on 70 minutes Melton missed a golden opportunity from a free kick. The ball fell to a Melton player who somehow missed when it looked easier to score.

Dunkley was replaced by Skervin on 72 mins.

Ashurst replaced Parkes on 79 mins.

On 79 Melton missed another great chance when the ball was blasted wide.

85 mins saw Hulley come on for Tefera.

As the game neared the end it looked as if Hucknall would hold on for a point but it got much better than that in the final minute as Hucknall were awarded a free kick. Ethan Hulley's delivery was perfect and Taylor Jaine produced a super header over the despairing home keeper to give Hucknall an unlikely winner. 

There was still time for the referee to produce the most appalling decision I have ever seen. Brad Wells was ahead of the defender in the box and received a two handed full shove in the back. The away fans initially thought the referee who was miles behind play in the centre circle had awarded a penalty but to the astonishment of everyone he produced a yellow to Wells for simulation. 

Melton still had time to produce a shot off target and then a shot straight at the visiting keeper who did well to catch it.

The final whistle blew and the players celebrated with the travelling support whilst the home fans were left scratching their heads.

Hucknall moved up to 8th only 3 points behind top of the table Kimberley Miners Welfare.

Next up for the Yellows is the visit of Sherwood Colliery to the RM on Wednesday night.

My MOTM was Taylor Jaine for the super block and super header.

YELLOWS ON THE ROAD AGAIN THIS SATURDAY

 MELTON TOWN V HUCKNALL TOWN

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH

SATURDAY 30TH AUGUST 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH PREVIEW

Fresh from their visit to league leaders Grantham on Tuesday where the Yellows secured a draw Hucknall make the trip to Melton Mowbray this weekend looking to build an unbeaten run.

Melton's League Record this season stands at

Played 6 won 2 drawn 1 and lost 6 with a GD of 0

Melton started with a 3 nil home defeat to Kimberley MW on opening day followed by a midweek defeat at Gresley Rovers (2 1)

They were then knocked out of the FA Cup by the team that knocked Hucknall out last season. A 3 nil defeat at Bottesford Town.

A creditable 2 2 draw at Heanor followed before their first victory, a 3 2 home win against pointless Ashby Ivanhoe.

They then lost on Saturday by the only goal of the game at Grantham before thrashing Deeping Rangers 5 1 at home on Bank holiday Monday.

So they go in to Saturdays game with confidence hoping to leapfrog the Yellows in the table.

Hucknall will be hoping for a repeat of last seasons game when they arguably produced their best display of last season in a 6 1 victory and it could easily have been more. 

useful links:

Address: Ground: Melton Sports Village,  Burton Road, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE13 1DN

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

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

Twitter: https://x.com/melton_town/

Weather forecast: 19 degrees, Light rain and a moderate breeze at KO

YELLOWS SO CLOSE TO VICTORY AT UNBEATEN LEAGUE LEADERS GRANTHAM

 GRANTHAM TOWN 1 HUCKNALL TOWN 1

GCE HIRE FLEET UCL PREMIER NORTH 

TUESDAY 26TH AUGUST 2025 19.45 KO

MATCH REPORT

TEAMS: GRANTHAM TOWN:                      HUCKNALL TOWN:

 

OFFICIALS: Erno Vajda, Ryan Dennis, Cameron Johnson

ATTENDANCE: 315

Hucknall visited the South Kesteven Stadium to visit the unbeaten League leaders and very nearly came away with all three points but were denied by an 88th minute equaliser. Although the Gingerbreads top the table they have played 7 games, at least 1 more than everyone else and are fast becoming draw specialists as this was their 4th draw in the 7 games played.

As expected Niall Towle was sidelined with the injury picked up on Saturday and Reece Sugars was also absent meaning a full league debut for Kyle Pemberton partnering Taylor Jaine in defence. Brad Lathall wore the captains armband with Aaron Short named on the bench.

Hucknall were the first to show on 4 mins, Parkes winning the ball in midfield before playing the ball through to Dunkley but he fired his shot wide.

Grantham responded on 7 mins, a header put wide from a good cross into the box.

The rest of the half was a battle of contrition with both sides having half chances but nothing clear cut.

Half time Grantham Town 0 Hucknall 0

The second half began in pretty much the same fashion with Hucknall picking up a yellow card on 51 minutes though not sure who received it.

On 56 mins Smith-Eccles reacted well to a good through ball and was able to collect.

57 mins saw the first change for the Yellows with Skervin being replaced by Wells.

On the Hour mark Short came on for Pemberton.

The game livened up as Lathall went on a good run before playing the ball to Parkes but his effort went just wide.

Grantham then had a half chance with a header wide from one of many long throws.

70 mins saw the introduction of Ashurst in place of Tefera.

75 mins saw Hucknall take the lead after being awarded a pretty clear cut penalty for hand ball.  One of Ashurst's first duties was to dispatch the penalty to give Hucknall the lead.

There were further subs for the Yellows with Hulley coming on for Dunkley on 79 mins and Lathall replaced by Simmons on 82 mins. 

Grantham responded and the visiting keeper had to make a smart save with his leg on 85 mins.

Hucknall who had defended really well all game came unstuck on yet another set piece. A corner on 88 mins saw the hosts draw level with Seb Robbemond being credited with scoring from the corner. 

Five minutes were added but neither side were able to secure a winner and the game ended all square. 

Hucknall moved up to 12th with the point and travel to Melton on Saturday hoping for a repeat of last seasons performance there. 

HUCKNALL BLOOM IN THE FA VASE TO PROGRESS TO THE NEXT ROUND

 HUCKNALL TOWN 3 BOSTON TOWN 1

FA VASE FIRST ROUND QUALIFYING

SATURDAY AUGUST 23RD 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH REPORT

TEAMS: HUCKNALL TOWN                                    BOSTON TOWN 

 

 

ATTENDANCE: 179

Hucknall Town produced a great team performance against a lack lustre Boston Town to progress through to the next round of the FA Vase.

Aaron Short and Sam Sims were unavailable so Reece Sugars partnered Taylor Jaine in central defence. Lewis Belgrave was available despite going off injured at Basford last Saturday. Niall Towle was given the Captains arm band in the absence of Short. Brad Wells was a surprise but welcome addition to the subs bench. 

As in recent games when Hucknall have been defeated in the previous game the Yellows made a bright start and again were rewarded with an early goal after only 5 minutes. A beautiful cross from right full back Cash Rowe was met with an equally great header from Lewis Belgrave which gave the visiting keeper Portas no chance. It was Belgrave's 4th goal of the campaign. What a great signing he is proving to be.

Hucknall created another chance on 11 mins this time the supply was from Lewis Parkes but Towle put the effort just wide of the post when well positioned.

17 mins saw Bostons first real attempt on the home goal. The ball hitting the post and Alfie Smith-Eccles in the Yellows net made a great save from the follow up to keep Hucknall's lead intact.

Hucknall were controlling the game and Towle again went close on 21 mins this time his header from Dunkley's cross being saved by Portas.

Hucknall were on the front foot and doubled their lead a minute later when Dunkley again played a through ball to Tefera who provided a smart finish past the visiting keeper.

Hucknall were very much on top and nearly added a third on 25 minutes with Towle's header from another Dunkley cross coming back off the crossbar. 

 Boston finally woke up and they had a period of pressure where Hucknall kept giving the ball away needlessly. This eventually led to a goal for the visitors when Bayliss found the back of the net after Hucknall failed to clear their lines. Another disappointing goal to concede and a lifeline for the visitors. 

Things got worse for the Yellows just before half time as Niall Towle went on a barnstorming run but went down in agony. The referee played on for a long time perhaps not knowing the serious nature of the injury. Despite a stretcher being brought on the striker was assisted off the pitch to be replaced by Mykah Skervin. 

Half Time Hucknall Town 2 Boston Town 1

The second half began pretty much like the first with Dunkley particularly catching the eye. First he produced a great run evading several tackles before shooting but it was an easy save for Portas. He wasn't to be denied though as on 54 mins he scored a third for Hucknall.

Hucknall were content with what they had and Boston began to have more possession. 67 mins saw Pemberton come on for Lathall as the Yellows bolstered their defence. 

The visitors went close to getting another back but the ball was put wide from close range and the Smith-Eccles was called in to action with another great save on 74 mins.

Wells came on for Tefera as Hucknall made another change and 5 (79 mins) minutes later the impressive Dunkley was replaced by Ethan Hulley.

Mahzi Simmons replaced Parkes on 82 mins and Hucknall just ran down the clock to ease through to the next round.

In a good team effort the Man Of The Match was a difficult decision with both Cash and CJ being popular choices. Alfie was the most popular vote and so scooped the honour but it was nice that so many players had a mention.

Hopefully Niall's injury is not as bad as first thought but will need assessment.fingers crossed on this one. Our visitors will be disappointed with their display and will be looking for a response when we play them in the League Cup away on the 6th September.

The Yellows will play Lutterworth Town away in the next round on the 20th September where we may well come up against our old keeper Luke Jeffrey. 

Hucknall's next game is on Tuesday night away at Grantham followed by another trip next Saturday at Melton Town both in the League.

Will Hucknall Flower in the FA Vase

 HUCKNALL TOWN V BOSTON TOWN

FA VASE FIRST ROUND QUALIFYING

SATURDAY AUGUST 23RD 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH PREVIEW

After being unceremoniously dumped out of the FA Cup by near neighbours Basford last Saturday Hucknall have an instant chance to redeem themselves in the FA Vase but again it won't be an easy task as last years beaten play off finalists Boston Town visit the RM Stadium on Saturday.

The two teams have been no strangers to each other in the last 2 seasons and by and large Boston have had their fair Share of the spoils. Boston are a well established UCL Premier side moving up from the Central Midlands league despite only finishing 9th at the end of the 1990/91 season and have been there ever since moving to the North Premier when the division was split in 2021.

Boston reached the FA Vase Semi Final in 1994 but lost out to Taunton Town. Last season they made the first round proper before bowing out to Atherstone Town. 

After losing out on Penalties to Bourne Town in the play offs Boston have made a steady start and are with a number of clubs on 7 points (1 ahead of the Yellows)to lie in 7th place from 4 games played. 

Boston started with a 2 2 home draw against Heanor Town but were then beaten away 2 1 at Wisbech who have made a good start to the season. A 2 nil home win followed in the FA Cup against Kimberley before two league wins both 2 1 away at pointless Ashby Ivanhoe and at home to Newark Town in controversial circumstances.

Boston's FA Cup adventure continued with success over the other Newark team. After a goal less draw at Newark and Sherwood, Boston won the replay 4 1 and face Sporting Khalsa a name familiar to Yellow's fans. 

In the last 2 seasons the teams have played 5 times with Boston winning 4 of them. At home in the league last December when the game was played in awful conditions with the hosts playing them better and running out 3 nil winners. The previous season Boston won three games at home in the league and FA Vase both 3 1 and 1 nil away at the RM.

I think these stats give a hint of how difficult this game will be and the Yellows will need to be on top form if they are to repeat their only victory v Boston, the 2 1 home win in September last year.

Hucknall will have injury worries concerning Lewis Belgrave and Sam Sims who had to come off against Basford and Reece Sugars who was injured for that game. Mahzi Simmons should be back after serving his 3 match ban for his red card at Belper.

Safe travels to our visiting players, supporters and management on Saturday and here's to a good game. Winners receive £550 and the losers £160. 

If the match is a draw after 90 minutes then it goes straight to penalties. No extra time.

YELLOWS DUMPED OUT OF THE fA CUP AFTER 5 GOAL BASFORD BLITZ.

 BASFORD UNITED 5 HUCKNALL TOWN 0

FA CUP PRELIMINARY ROUND

SATURDAY 16TH AUGUST 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH REPORT

TEAMS  Basford United: 

Hucknall Town: 

Attendance: 394

Hucknall spurned two golden opportunities to score first which could have completely changed the outcome of this tie. As it was Basford took the lead and stepped through the gears and delivered 5 goals in a devastating 20 minute spell that was painful for the Yellows supporters to watch and the referees final blow of the whistle was a blessing.

Hucknall were without the injured Reece Sugars and Brad Wells so Tefera started whilst Taylor Jaine partnered Aaron short at the back. New Signing Kyle Pemberton was fit enough to be on the bench.

There was a minutes applause at the start of the game for the sad loss to the Basford family of Sam Shaw. Sincere condolences to her family and friends.

The first half was a very tense affair with Hucknall not being out of place with their Step 4 opponents.

Basford went close on 8 mins but the shot went wide. Basford made an early substitution on 17 mins with Goodman replacing Palmer.

The hosts had a period of possession and Smith-Eccles had to be alert to save a whipped in free kick on 20 mins.

Hucknall defended well and had their first chance on 28 mins when Tefera's shot went just wide of the post. 

Both sides had good chances just before half time with Smith-Eccles making a good save and the visitor's Belgrave through on goal elected to square the ball to Towle but the pass was intercepted and the chance was gone.

Half Time: Basford 0 Hucknall 0

The second half began in the same tense manner. The hosts were forced into a second change through injury with Hallam replacing Dacres on 53 mins. I hope Tyler's injury wasn't as bad as it looked and I wish him a speedy recovery.

56 minutes saw the big turning point of the game as the home keeper Yates produced a stunning double save from Ashurst, saving his initial close range shot and then superbly tipping the rebound effort over the bar. It really was a great piece of keeping but Ashurst really should have scored.

Basford made a third change on 56 mins with Maher replacing Christie.

Whilst Hucknall had defended set pieces well up to this point it was once again prove to be their undoing when on 58 minutes a free kick to Basford was whipped in and Basford's captain Wilder was on hand to head the ball home at the far post to give the hosts the lead. 

Any hopes that Hucknall would respond were short lived as Basford quickly scored a second. Cummings slotting the ball past Smith-Eccles to double the lead. 

Hucknall heads visibly dropped and despite changes (Ashurst and Lathall being replaced by Skervin and Dunkley) Basford were in no mood to let up. Smith-Eccles had to make a fine save before the hosts got a third goal on 72 mins. Wilder again heading home this time from a corner. 

Further goals from Goodman who finished off an assist from Wilder and Cummings getting to the ball before the visiting keeper and shooting home. All this was a painful spectacle to the Hucknall fans and I suspect the management team. 

Hucknall made late changes with Tefera, Jaine and Rowe being replaced by Scoular, Hulley and Pemberton.

Thankfully the referee brought proceedings to an early end when only adding on 3 minutes and the whistle was a relief to many of the away following.

Good luck to Basford in the next round where they face Hednesford Town away and I look forward to our next meeting with them when ever that may be.

Hucknall go out of the FA Cup but move on to the FA Vase where we play Boston Town at the RM stadium on Saturday. 

TRAMLINE FA CUP LOCAL DERBY AWAITS YELLOWS THIS SATURDAY

FA CUP PRELIMINARY ROUND

BASFORD UNITED V HUCKNALL TOWN

SATURDAY AUGUST 16TH 2025 15.00 KO

MATCH PREVIEW

 
Hucknall make the short journey to Basford in this round of the FA Cup having defeated Yaxley 3 2 at home in the extra preliminary round a fortnight ago.

Basford are no strangers to Hucknall and the two teams have a similar recent history. Hucknall reached the Unibond Northern Premier League in 1999 and won the title in 2004 but were denied the chance to compete in the national conference as our old Watnall Road ground failed the ground grading required. Hucknall were placed in the newly formed Conference North instead until the end of the 2008/09 season having been reprieved the previous season due to Halifax Towns demise. This was the first relegation in the clubs history but the slide had begun and further relegations followed until eventually we took our reserves place in the Central Midlands League.

Basford have achieved similar success and they and Carlton Town have established themselves as the top Nottinghamshire's non league sides.

As Hucknall fell down the leagues Basford were moving in the opposite direction winning the Central Midlands South League 2011/12 and the East Midlands Counties League the following season. After finishing 5th in the NCEL Premier they transferred over to the newly formed Midland Premier League and became the first winners of that league moving up to the Division 1 South of the NPL. They made the play offs at the end of the 2014/15 season losing to Coalville Town but won the league 2017/18 to progress to the NPL Premier. Football logistics found them being placed in the Southern Premier Central before coming back to the NPL Premier.

Last season saw them suffer relegation to the NPL Division 1 Midlands League alongside other local sides Carlton, Belper town, Long Eaton United, Shepshed Dynamo and Mickleover FC (formerly Sports).

During this period Basford also won the Notts Senior Cup 4 times from 2014 until 2019, beating Hucknall at some point in most of those victories.

So it came as a surprise to many including myself to be honest when Hucknall swept them aside at the RM last season  on their way to claiming the trophy for the first time since 2003. 

Basford have played 2 league games this season winning 1 and drawing 1. Victory came against Shepshed away by the only goal of the game. This followed a 4 4 home draw on the opening day at home to Sutton Coldfield Town, all the goals coming in the second half.

Hucknall will be buoyed by there excellent victory over Gresley on Wednesday and also tend to perform well on 4g pitches.

Should be a cracker of a game.

Useful links:

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

Twitter: https://x.com/Basfordutdfc

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

Address: Greenwich Avenue, New Basford, NG6 0LE

Weather Forecast: 24 degrees, sunny with cloud at kick off.

I understand that Basford have this week lost a valued member of their family. Sam Shaw assisted in many roles over many years from the bar to the refreshments stand and many other roles and she was a very much loved member of the Basford Family. There will be a minutes applause before the game. Sincere condolences go out to Sam's family and our friends at Basford United from everyone at Hucknall Town FC.