Tag: community-support

  • Edwards Ignites Fairford Fightback with Stunning 20-Minute Hat-Trick

    Edwards Ignites Fairford Fightback with Stunning 20-Minute Hat-Trick

    Late or not, this is one performance that simply couldn’t be missed.

    In what can only be described as an incredible game of football, Harrison Edwards produced a sensational 20-minute first-half hat-trick to turn Fairford’s fortunes on their head against third-placed Slimbridge.

    The context made the challenge even greater. Fairford found themselves 2–0 down, facing one of the league’s strongest sides, and having failed to score in their previous three league games. Add to that a four-game losing streak, and the signs were ominous.

    But football, as ever, had other ideas.

    A goal shortly after Fairford conceded their second proved to be the spark — and from that moment on, the match belonged to Edwards.

    Club Football Director Jody reflected on the turnaround:

    “In an incredible game of football Fairford found themselves 2–0 against 3rd placed Slimbridge and having not scored in their previous three league games, the omens did not look good. However a goal shortly after conceding the second proved to be the catalyst for Fairford and Harrison Edwards in particular, who went on to score a 20-minute first-half hat-trick to completely alter the course of the game and bring an end to a losing streak that has seen Fairford lose their previous four league games.”

    Edwards’ treble wasn’t just clinical — it was transformational. In the space of 20 minutes, belief returned, momentum swung, and a game that appeared to be slipping away was completely rewritten. His goals carried urgency, composure, and conviction, lifting teammates and unsettling an opposition that had looked comfortable only moments earlier.

    More than just goals, this was leadership through action. When Fairford needed inspiration, Edwards delivered it decisively — ending the scoring drought, halting the losing run, and reminding everyone just how quickly football can change.

    Congratulations to Harrison Edwards on a remarkable hat-trick performance — one that didn’t just change a game, but reset a season’s momentum. ⚽🔥

  • Bexton at the Treble as LJ Shines Against Ludlow

    Bexton at the Treble as LJ Shines Against Ludlow

    Lewis Bexton produced a clinical and commanding performance as he struck a superb hat-trick against Ludlow, delivering a display of quality and confidence in front of goal.

    Club reporter George Wadsworth captured the moment perfectly:

    “LJ delivered a superb hat trick against Ludlow. A breathtaking first goal before powering on to complete his treble — his second in the same week after his first came in the 4-0 Floodlit Cup win against Carterton.”

    The opening goal set the tone — a breathtaking finish that immediately lifted the contest and showcased Bexton’s attacking intent. From there, he grew stronger as the game progressed, driving forward with purpose and composure to complete his treble in emphatic fashion.

    Bexton’s movement, confidence, and ability to seize key moments proved decisive, ensuring Ludlow were kept under constant pressure. Each goal added control and clarity, turning a competitive fixture into one defined by his influence.

    Completing a hat-trick is an achievement in itself. To do so twice in the same week highlights not just form, but focus and consistency — attributes that continue to serve both player and team well.

    Congratulations to Lewis Bexton on an outstanding hat-trick performance, capped by a goal that will live long in the memory. ⚽

  • Saturday Football Round-Up: Penalties, Goal Gluts and 1,555 Reasons to Love the Hellenic League

    Saturday Football Round-Up: Penalties, Goal Gluts and 1,555 Reasons to Love the Hellenic League

    Saturday 17 January delivered a full menu of non-league entertainment across the Isuzu FA Vase and the Hellenic League, with penalty shoot-out drama, emphatic league victories and no shortage of goals — all watched by a combined 1,555 supporters who braved January conditions to back their sides.

    And if you ever needed 1,555 reasons to come and watch the Hellenic League, this was it: action packed with drama, great goals, epic saves and just a tiny touch of referee controversy — the good kind that keeps everyone talking on the way home. Give us this any day over the so-called top flight.

    FA Vase: Nerves of Steel Required

    There was knockout tension in the Isuzu FA Vase, starting at Downton where 190 spectators were treated to a goalless stalemate between the hosts and Slimbridge. Clear chances were at a premium, and with neither side able to break through, penalties were required. Downton kept their composure to edge the shoot-out 4–3 and book their place in the next round — goalkeepers and heart-rate monitors earning their keep.

    Hallen and Hythe & Dibden served up a similar script in front of 110 fans. Harrison Fairman put Hallen ahead shortly after the break, only for Harrison Clarke to respond almost immediately for the visitors. With the scores locked at 1–1, it was once again down to penalties, where Hallen proved the cooler customers, winning 4–2 from the spot.

    Premier Division: Big Wins and Big Statements

    In the Hellenic Premier Division, Cirencester Town were in ruthless form, dismantling Westfields 5–1. Harlie Price stole the headlines with four goals, supported by strikes from Zac Powell and Theo Jeremy, as 148 supporters watched a second-half blitz that left little doubt about the outcome.

    The biggest crowd of the day — 259 strong — was at Droitwich Spa, though the home supporters endured a tough afternoon as Cinderford Town ran out 4–0 winners. Jack Watts helped himself to a second-half brace, underlining a dominant away performance.

    Corsham Town did their damage early at Hereford Pegasus, with Nick McCoottie netting twice before half-time. From there, Corsham managed the game well to secure a 2–0 victory in front of 65 spectators.

    Mangotsfield United claimed a solid 2–0 home win over Fairford Town, breaking the deadlock after the hour before sealing the points late on. A disciplined performance watched by 233 fans.

    Pershore Town and Cribbs shared the spoils in a competitive 1–1 draw. Cribbs led through Kieran Clayton, but Pershore showed resilience, with Jamie Lucas grabbing a late equaliser to earn a point in front of 119 in attendance.

    Tuffley Rovers and Royal Wootton Bassett Town produced one of the games of the day, with the visitors edging a 3–2 thriller. Goals flew in at both ends, keeping the 118-strong crowd fully entertained and goalkeepers permanently on edge.

    Worcester Raiders made home advantage count, defeating Lydney Town 3–1. Goals in both halves ensured a deserved win, with 112 spectators watching Raiders continue their positive run.

    Division One: Clinical Finishing on Display

    In Division One, Bewdley Town were efficient and controlled in a 2–0 win over Chipping Sodbury Town, scoring once in each half to secure the points in front of 62 supporters.

    FC Stratford delivered one of the standout performances of the afternoon, sweeping aside Cheltenham Saracens 4–0. Toby Nichol was in devastating form, helping himself to a hat-trick as 61 fans enjoyed a comfortable home victory.

    Malmesbury Victoria were equally convincing on the road, defeating Ludlow Town 4–0. Lewis-James Bexton-Shaw bagged a hat-trick, ensuring the visitors left with maximum points — and the Ludlow goalkeeper left with plenty to think about — watched by 40 spectators.

    Newent Town completed the day’s action with an impressive 4–1 away win at Wellington. After falling behind early, Newent responded emphatically with four goals of their own, turning the game on its head in front of 38 supporters.

    📊 By the Numbers

    Across 13 played fixtures, a total of:

    1,555 spectators

    turned out to support local football — proof once again that the Hellenic League delivers week in, week out. Drama, goals, saves, stories… and you’re close enough to hear the shouts from the dugouts. What more do you want?

    Written by: AI (with a touch of human help!)

    Cover Photo: Pete Kinsella

  • Final Score review 10/01/26

    Final Score review 10/01/26

    Saturday 10 January 2026 – Goals, groans and one or two long afternoons

    Premier Division

    Highworth Town P-P Fairford Town

    The pitch said “no”, the weather said “absolutely not”, and everyone sensibly went home.

    Corsham Town 3–0 Lydney Town (Att: 140)

    Corsham kept it tidy and professional. McCootie opened the scoring, Plummer added a penalty (VAR still unavailable at this level, thankfully), and Freckleton finished things off. Lydney arrived, tried their best, and left with a long journey to reflect.

    Longlevens AFC 0–1 Cirencester Town (Att: 114)

    Theo Jeremy scored after nine minutes and Cirencester then defended like they’d hidden the ball behind the clubhouse. Not pretty, but very effective.

    Mangotsfield United 0–1 Droitwich Spa (Att: 355)

    A big crowd for a game decided by a single Josh Hurdman strike. Droitwich grabbed the goal, Mangotsfield pressed the panic button, and 355 people debated “how that didn’t go in” on the way out.

    Roman Glass St George 3–0 Westfields (Att: 80)

    Early goal, steady control, job done. Roman Glass barely broke sweat and Westfields were left wondering where the afternoon went.

    Royal Wootton Bassett Town 0–3 Slimbridge (Att: 218)

    Two Jack Smiths scored in two minutes, causing confusion in the stands and probably in the changing rooms too. Evans-Harriott then made sure Slimbridge’s bus home was a happy one.

    Thornbury Town 0–0 Pershore Town (Att: 160)

    A game that had everything… except goals. Both keepers stayed warm, the defences stayed busy, and the scoreline stayed exactly where it started.

    Tuffley Rovers 2–2 Cinderford Town (Att: 172)

    End-to-end stuff and a late sting in the tail. Just when Tuffley thought they’d cracked it, Preston Mason popped up in the 89th minute to spoil the celebrations.

    Worcester Raiders 2–1 Hereford Pegasus (Att: 133)

    Raiders nicked this one with a late winner. Pegasus briefly soared after equalising, only to be grounded again before full time.

    Division One

    Alcester Town P-P Cheltenham Saracens

    Another postponement, another afternoon saved from muddy socks.

    Clanfield 85 3–3 Chipping Sodbury Town (Att: 106)

    Clanfield looked to have a much-needed win wrapped up after a flying start but less than a minute later it was all square and with a strong second-half spell, taking the lead proved trickier than finding the net. Chipping Sodbury kept knocking, Clanfield kept letting them in, and by full time the hosts were left wondering how three points turned into one.

    Redditch Borough P-P Carterton

    No football, no drama — just the promise of a rearranged fixture.

    Shortwood United P-P Thame United Reserves

    Yet another pitch that lost its battle with winter.

    Stonehouse Town 1–2 FC Stratford (Att: 94)

    Stratford struck early and late, Stonehouse rallied, and the visitors left quietly pleased with themselves.

    Wantage Town 7–1 Newent Town (Att: 198)

    Absolute carnage. Wantage were five up by half-time and didn’t ease off. The scoreboard had a tougher workout than some of the defenders.

    Wellington 3–2 Brimscombe & Thrupp (Att: 42)

    A cracking little contest played out in front of those dedicated enough to brave the cold. Goals, drama and three points for Wellington

    Written by: AI

    Cover picture: Credit Pete Kinsella

  • Andreas Latta Passing

    Andreas Latta Passing

    We were deeply saddened to receive the news just after Christmas that Andreas Latta, Secretary of Penn & Tylers Green FC and a true club legend, had passed away.

    Andreas was the very heartbeat of Penn & Tylers Green behind the scenes. His dedication to the club was unwavering, and his administration was consistently of the highest order — meticulous, reliable, and always carried out with genuine care. He was someone clubs, officials, and league administrators could depend on without hesitation.

    Andreas was also well known and highly respected across the league. During Penn & Tylers Green’s previous spell with us in the former Division One East, He served as club secretary and built strong relationships throughout the competition. His knowledge, professionalism, and willingness to help left a lasting impression on many.

    Football clubs rely on people like Andreas — those who give their time selflessly, often away from the spotlight, to ensure the game continues week after week. His contribution to Penn & Tylers Green FC, and to the wider league community, will not be forgotten.

    Our thoughts are with Andreas family, friends, and everyone at Penn & Tylers Green FC at this very difficult time.

    The Service will be held at the Chilterns Crem on Friday the 30th Jan at 1315hrs, Anyone who knew Andreas is welcome to attend.

  • Hellenic League – Statement

    Hellenic League – Statement

    The Hellenic Football League is deeply saddened by the tragic fire that occurred within the Brimscombe community over the recent holiday period. This devastating incident has profoundly affected loved ones, neighbours, and the wider community at Brimscombe & Thrupp Football Club, and at times like this football rightly takes a back seat.

    We would like to go on record in expressing our heartfelt sympathy and condolences to all those affected by this tragedy. Our thoughts are with the entire Brimscombe community during what must be an unimaginably difficult time.

    In response to the profound impact of this event, a fundraising appeal has been established to support those most directly affected. We respectfully encourage anyone who is able to contribute — no matter how small the donation — to consider doing so as a way of showing solidarity and support in this darkest of hours. Donations can be made here: Go Fund Me

    The Hellenic Football League stands ready to offer support in any way it can, and we are committed to working with Brimscombe & Thrupp Football Club and the local community as they begin the process of healing and recovery. We hope that our collective compassion and generosity can provide some comfort and practical assistance at this time.