Mon 25.06.07

Following confirmation from the East Riding County FA, the Club announces that the current School-Club Link Programme being held in conjunction with Easington CE (VC) Primary School will conclude on Friday, 3 August – the day Hull City Juniors come to Low Farm.  The Programme concludes with a “Festival” involving all those who’ve taken part during the preceding weeks; this will commence in the afternoon and conclude ahead of the City game, which is set to kick-off at 7.00pm.

The Club also receive a boost when their invitation to BBC Radio Humberside to bring their “Sports Talk” programme to Low Farm that same night is provisionally accepted.  Aired on tonight’s show, sports producer David Burns states his intention to come provided the technical side is okay with regards to signal output etc. 

We await further developments…

Fri 22.06.07

The pre-season friendly at Skidby Millers is to be moved from its original date of Wednesday, 8 August.  This is due to the Eastenders having entered a team in the “Football Mundial” Hull 6-a-side Wednesday League.  The Skidby game will now take place on either the Tuesday (7th) or Thursday (9th) of that same week.

Wed 20.06.07

The final meeting takes place tonight of the Sub-Committee formed to oversee the Diamond Celebration Event on Saturday, 30 June.  Barring any major last-minute changes it now looks as if over 260 guests will attend the function at which England ’66 World Cup Legend Jack Charlton OBE is guest speaker.  This is a figure that has delighted those involved with the planning and is testament to a lot of hard work put in by those individuals.  General Manager Richard Lusmore says, “As with any of these things there have been hiccups along the way but I can’t thank the Sub-Committee enough for the excellent work they’ve put in.  It looks like we’re going to have a great night and provide a fitting way with which to celebrate sixty years of the Eastenders.”

Among the principal guests on the evening are Mr Chris Bodsworth, Mr John Breckon and Mr Rob Lester representing the East Riding County Football Association, ER County League and the Humber Premier League; it is hoped that a representative of Hull City will also be present, though the recent changes involving Adam Pearson have led to no official acceptance from The Tigers to the Committee’s invitation.  Meanwhile, also rumoured to be attending are Hull City legend Ken Wagstaff and Withernsea-born Northampton Town manager Stuart Gray in addition to dozens of Easington players from the past six decades.

Besides the meal and speeches, the Event also sees the presentation of several long-service and achievement awards, as well as a raffle and auction of memorabilia with shirts donated by Hull City and Hull Kingston Rovers as well as items signed by Premiership clubs Liverpool, Manchester City and Bolton Wanderers.

Mon 18.06.07

The Eastenders are delighted to confirm that Hull City Juniors will again visit Low Farm as part of the 2007/08 pre-season schedule.  Billy Russell’s side, which won the Puma Youth Alliance last season, are making their fourth successive summer trip to the East End, with the locals yet to taste victory!  The Young Tigers also edged us out in the East Riding Senior Cup at the Farm in November 2004, Paul Anderson netting the only goal of the game.

Sat 09.06.07

The Club holds an excellent “Annual Presentation & Race Evening” at The Granby, with over a hundred players and guests helping to raise about £700 for Club funds.  The Committee would like to thank each of its eight race sponsors for their support and, of course, the “punters” on the night.

At the awards presentation, Mike Nicholson is the biggest beneficiary at first team, picking up two trophies.  However ‘Nicho’ is pipped to the Club’s ‘Top Scorer’ award by young striker Darren Thompson who also claims a couple of trophies at Reserve Team level. 

John Batch caps a fine first season at the Club by bagging the ‘Man of the Match’ award, while youngsters Anthony Barnett Rich Clubley are both “double winners” at Reserve and Casuals level respectively.  Other winners on the night are Andy Graham, Trevor Biglin, Dave Clubley, Ollie Musgrove and Jamie Cousins.  Bouquets are presented to Judy Sugden, Dora Law and Sue White for their work during the season.

A full report can be found in the Press Releases section of the Message Board 

Wed 06.06.07

Ahead of the Eastenders’ Annual Presentation Evening, which takes place this Saturday, and a week after the Eastenders’ record win at the South Holderness Cup, Richard Lusmore aims a blast at the Club’s detractors in a statement on the official Web Site.  The General Manager reveals how disappointed he has been with certain comments aimed Easington’s way since their semi-final win over Withernsea: “I’m getting rather tired of the inane comments aired, particularly recently, by people connected to local clubs who should know better but I suppose I ought to be used to it – there’s been plenty of tosh sent our way over the last ten years.”

He adds, “I don’t expect our local rivals to particularly like us and, to be honest, I couldn’t care less whether they do or don’t. But I do think it’s about time we got the respect our efforts deserve. We have proved time and again over the past decade that we are the side to beat in this area. How long it will last nobody knows but our achievements deserve more than petty sniping from those who would do better to get their own house in order first.”

Lusmore also lists some of the Club’s achievements over the past ten years, not least of which is getting three open-age teams out on a Saturday afternoon!  In among these comes the number of times he feels Easington have proved their detractors wrong and he expresses his view that they will continue to do so.

In thanking those who’ve supported the Club in various ways during 2006/07, he also directs people’s thoughts towards the Diamond Celebration Event, which is now only three weeks away.

For the full statement see Club Announcements on the Message Board

Mon 04.06.07

Sheffield FC will not be sending a team to Low Farm as part of the 2007/08 pre-season build-up.  The “Oldest Football Club in the World” is celebrating its 150th Anniversary this year and has a hectic programme of events lined up to mark the occasion.  It had been hoped that the Northern Counties East League champions’ Under-19 squad might have been able to take up our invitation but sadly this proves not to be the case.  Manager Dave McCarthy does, however, offer to fulfil a game “next year”, while Chairman Richard Tims agrees to kindly donate some club merchandise for auction at the Eastenders’ Diamond Celebration Event.

Wed 30.05.07

Easington clinch the South Holderness Cup with a superb goal from Steve Harrod in the first period of extra time in tonight’s final at the Destiny Fitness Ground.  Receiving a pass from Kevin Milner some 25 yards out on the left, Harrod cuts inside before curling the ball into the top corner.  Both sides agree afterwards that the Eastenders deserve their eighth success in eleven years and it’s a delighted Neil Rutter who steps up to receive the trophy from Alan Coopland of sponsors CFS Fuel Supplies.

Some consolation for opponents Hedon Rangers comes with the match officials’ choice of Keith Parkinson as recipient of the Melvin Douglas Memorial Shield for Man of the Match.

Tue 29.05.07

Tomorrow sees the curtain brought down on the Eastenders’ 2006/07 campaign when they face Hedon Rangers in the South Holderness Cup at Destiny Fitness.

Easington are seeking an unprecedented eighth win in the last ten attempts in the competition and boast a proud record of just two defeats in 32 matches in the South Holderness Cup, stretching back to their first success in 1997 (not including 2001 when Humber Premier League commitments prevented entry).

Ironically, the last of these defeats came against tomorrow’s opponents, courtesy of a penalty shootout in the quarter-finals in 2005.  The Eastenders were also beaten when the two teams last met in the HPL Premier Division, at Low Farm in March

Hedon Rangers are attempting to win the Cup for the first time, although as “Keyingham” they were successful in 2001, beating Withernsea in the final. 

Both teams are without key leaders tomorrow; Hedon being under the control of asst-boss Dave Thompson and the experienced Steve Brough due to the absence of manager Kenny Harrison, while Easington are without assistant manager Dave Walmsley.

Squad-wise, manager Mack is expected to recall experienced duo Kevin Milner and Craig Smalley to the defence at the expense of youngsters Paul Morrow and Luke Jeffery.  The teenage duo are expected to be named on the bench alongside Ollie Musgrove and Danny Medforth.  Fit-again Rob Kamis, the returning Stuart Campbell and the boss himself are also named in an 18-man squad although they’re not expected to figure.

Mack is determined that his side end a frustrating campaign on a high note and has urged them to sign off in style.  He readily admits that big improvement on the patchy performances so far in the competition will be required if the Eastenders are to re-write the record books tomorrow.

SQUAD (probable): Appleyard, Smalley, Milner, Potts, Batch, Graham, Barrow, Nicholson, Thompson, Harrod, Rutter, Musgrove, Medforth, Jeffery, Morrow, Kamis, Campbell, Mackay-Dundas  

Wed 23.05.07

The Eastenders confirm their first pre-season friendly for 2007/08 with Leicester & District League side Desford FC repeating their visit of last year.  They come to Low Farm on Saturday, 28 July (3.00pm).

The Club is still waiting to hear from Hull City Juniors, North Ferriby United and Sheffield FC regarding confirmation of other possible home fixtures.  In addition a couple of midweek visits to County League and/or HPL Division 1 sides are being arranged to complete the schedule.

Mon 21.05.07

As they approach their eighth South Holderness Cup Final in the last ten attempts, Dave Mack is somewhat deflated despite the Eastenders’ unprecedented achievement.  Not for the first time in this year’s cup run, Mack was disappointed by his team’s patchy display, which – not surprisingly – again left opponents Withernsea feeling a sense of injustice at the result.  He says, “We’re just not clicking properly at the moment, which disappoints me as I regard this competition as our cup.  To be fair, that was the best I’ve seen Withernsea play against us in recent years and I can see why they’ll be disappointed not to have gone through.  But, as patchy as our performance was, we still created several good chances that weren’t taken and at 2-0 we should have closed the game out.”

The manager singles Steve Harrod out for special praise – “He almost dragged us through the game single-handed” – before expressing his hope that the full squad will “come to the party” on Wednesday week.

Wed 16.05.07 (pm)

The Eastenders are through to their eighth South Holderness Cup Final in ten years – but not without a fright!  On a sodden evening at Low Farm, Dave Mack’s side triumph 3-2 on penalties after both teams are locked 3-3 at the end of extra-time.  Mike Nicholson and John Batch give the locals a 2-0 half-time lead but an impressive Withernsea side fight back to level matters through Chris Frost (penalty) and Neil Stephenson.  The latter then inadvertently heads into his own goal with just five minutes left but Simon Wilson levels matters again a minute later.  In the penalty shootout, Kevin Appleyard proves the hero with saves from Steve Beedham, Chris Frost and Chris Hardcastle.  Andy Graham is the only unsuccessful home penalty taker.

The Final takes place at the Destiny Fitness Ground, Saltend on Wednesday, 30th May (kick-off 6.45pm).

Wed 16.05.07 (am)

Dave Mack names a 15-man squad for tonight’s South Holderness Cup semi-final against Withernsea at Low Farm (6.30pm).  He is bolstered by the return of Craig Smalley, Kevin Milner and Ollie Musgrove, all missing from the win over Patrington.  However, it appears likely the boss will continue with the teenage full-back pairing of Luke Jeffery and Paul Morrow, while his only other decision concerns whether to go with Steve Harrod or Danny Medforth alongside Darren Thompson up front.  Dave Walmsley (work) is the only absentee.

Tonight’s game is kindly being sponsored by Wigs and Pieces.com.

Eastenders (probable): Appleyard, Jeffery, Morrow, Potts, Batch, Graham, Barrow, Nicholson, Thompson, Harrod, Rutter, Medforth, Musgrove, Smalley, Milner 

Wed 16.05.07 (am)

Match Reports & Press Releases added to Message Board

Tue 15.05.07

Old George (AFC Charter) are crowned County League champions.  The Goole side gain the point required against Reckitts Reserves to pip Howden Amateurs, 4-3 winners over Sculcoates Amateurs Reserves at Ashes Park.  Sculcoates’ defeat, coupled with an “arranged draw” against Northfield means they cannot now pass the Stiffs who are therefore confirmed in eighth place.

Sat 12.05.07 (pm)

Worrying injuries to Adam Metcalf and ‘Biff’ McNaught compound a bad day for the Stiffs at Sculcoates.  Both players require hospital treatment with Metcalf ferried there by ambulance after what is thought at first to be a fractured shinbone.  Thankfully it turns out to be no more serious than severe bruising.  McNaught, meanwhile, is taken to hospital with a facial injury that requires six stitches.  The injuries come either side of half-time in a game that Scully win 6-1; Stu Campbell netting the locals’ consolation.

The final games of the season in Division 4 see Long Riston Reserves clinch the title with a win at Skidby, while DADS slip to a surprise defeat at Holme Rovers Reserves.  None of the games affect the Casuals’ final placing of tenth.

Sat 12.05.07 (am)

Darren Dawson and Luke Smith are both out of this afternoon’s Reserve team game.  Ollie Musgrove is called into the squad with the Mack and McNaught content to go with thirteen.  This afternoon’s game is largely academic in terms of league status – recent results and “walkovers” elsewhere have virtually confirmed Holme Rovers, Reckitts Reserves and FC Ridings as the Premier Division’s bottom three clubs.

Daniel Campbell takes his “Fun Junior Coaching Sessions” to Easington School this morning as part of the annual Fun Day & Fun Run.  In the event, several downpours during the morning deter a lot of potential new faces but a couple do come along to bolster the morning’s attendance.

Fri 11.05.07

With John Clarke working, first team boss Dave Mack is invited by Reserves asst-mgr ‘Biff’ McNaught to take the reins for the locals’ final league game tomorrow.  A glut of other absentees due to cricket, work and injury means that The Mack will also figure on the bench.  One plus point is the availability of Stuart Campbell, home on leave following his “passing out” with the Royal Navy.

Reserves: Rawlings, Senior, Hooley, Richardson, S Campbell, A McNaught, D Campbell, Metcalf, J Cousins, Barnett, L Smith, McLaughlin, Dawson, Mackay-Dundas

Fri 11.05.07

The South Holderness Cup semi-final between Easington and Withernsea will take place at Low Farm next Wednesday (16th) with a 6.30pm kick-off.

Wed 09.05.07

Withernsea will provide the Eastenders’ semi-final opponents in this season’s South Holderness Cup (date still TBA).  The Seasiders brush past County League Division 3 side Hedon Rangers Reserves 9-0 at Hull Road.  The winners of this tie will then go on to meet Hedon Rangers in the final; Kenny Harrison’s side cruising past surprise package Roos 6-0 in tonight’s first semi-final.

The final league game involving an Easington side takes place on Saturday when the Reserves will conclude their Premier Division campaign against Sculcoates Amateurs Reserves.  Due to the cricket commitments at Chants Ave, the game has been switched to King George V Playing Fields, Kirk Ella.

Tue 08.05.07

The Casuals go out with a bang – unfortunately! They lose 8-0 at Skidby with most of the damage being done during a horrendous first half in which the merry Millers score six times without reply.

Mon 07.05.07

Other commitments rule Dave Hurren out of tomorrow’s Casuals’ fixture at Skidby.  Adam Metcalf is called up as replacement.

Sun 06.05.07

The Casuals will conclude their 2006/07 campaign away at title hopefuls Skidby Millers Reserves on Tuesday night (6.30pm).

Manager Clubley is again reliant on stand-in goalkeeper Craig Foster and is without Mike Hooley and Matty Purse from the side that faced DADS, in addition to the injured Chris Smith.  However, Dave Hurren is available for selection, having recently returned from service with the RAF in Afghanistan and is named in a 13-man squad.

Casuals: Foster, Fisk, T Biglin, I McNaught, D Campbell, D Clubley, Dawson, Findley, R Clubley, Barnett, Brown, Ward, Hurren, A N Other

Sat 05.05.07

In another unconvincing display, the Eastenders are thankful to a Mike Nicholson hat-trick for their progression to the South Holderness Cup semi-finals.  ‘Nicho’ strikes in the 44th, 50th and 63rd minutes to give his side a 3-0 win over a spirited Patrington Stanley United Reserves.

Fri 04.05.07

The Eastenders Reserves make a disappointing early exit from the South Holderness Cup when they slip to a surprising first round defeat at the hands of Division 3 side Roos.  Ex-East Ender Joni Purse scores the game’s only goal five minutes into the second half.

Thu 03.05.07

Ollie Musgrove is the latest withdrawal from Saturday’s squad – he’s away at the, ahem, “Millennium Magic” weekend in Cardiff.  Depending on Dave Walmsley’s fitness and his own readiness to play, manager Mack may well call one of John Clarke’s 20-man squad into his line-up ahead of the tie.

Wed 02.05.07

Hedon Rangers become the first side through to this season’s South Holderness Cup semi-finals, courtesy of a 3-0 win over AFC Preston.  They now await the winners of Friday’s Easington Utd ‘B’ v Roos game.

Wed 02.05.07

Match Reports & Press Releases added to Message Board

Tue 01.05.07 (pm)

Despite plenty of effort the Eastenders Casuals go down 2-0 at the hands of Dads Against Drugs at a misty Low Farm.  Craig Foster saves a first half penalty but the visitors eventually break the deadlock just before half-time.  A second goal on the hour kills things off and in an at times tetchy affair five Easington players find their way into the referee’s notebook.

Tue 01.05.07 (am)

The Casuals entertain D.A.D.S. FC tonight in their penultimate league game.  The visitors are still in with a realistic chance of the Division 4 title, while for Doug Clubley’s side the pressure is off following their securing of a place outside the bottom two.  Craig Foster is the latest player to don the keeper’s gloves in the continuing non-selection of Ian Thurkettle but otherwise the squad retains a familiar look.  The game kicks off at Low Farm at 6.30pm.

Casuals (v D.A.D.S. FC): Foster, Brown, T Biglin, Hooley, I McNaught, D Campbell, D Clubley, Dawson, R Clubley, C Smith, Barnett, Findley, M Purse, Fisk

Mon 30.04.07

Following a meeting of the Club Management Committee this evening, Daniel Campbell is to be invited to take his brother’s place thereon as Players’ Representative.

Mon 30.04.07

Craig Smalley is out of Saturday’s South Holderness Cup tie against Patrington Stanley United Reserves at Low Farm.  He is away for the weekend.  Manager Mack has included Steve Harrod in his squad for the game but will probably decide against using Kevin Milner, allowing the player more time to recover from recent injury.

Sat 28.04.07

Despite Hornsea’s defeat by Pocklington (their second 3-1 reverse in the week), their goal difference just keeps them above Easington in the HPL Premier table.  Meanwhile Reckitts’ win at Hornsea in midweek has lifted them over the Eastenders and into the top four.  Our final placing of seventh is therefore confirmed.

Sat 28.04.07

Withernsea’s 4-1 win at Paull Wanderers completes the preliminary round ties in the South Holderness Cup.  The revised first round draw now sees Easington ‘A’ v Patrington Stanley Utd ‘B’; Hedon Rangers ‘B’ v Withernsea; Hedon Rangers ‘A’ v AFC Preston; Easington Utd ‘B’ v Roos.  The latter tie is confirmed for Friday (4 May) with a 6.45pm kick-off.

Thu 26.04.07

Easington’s defence of the South Holderness Cup begins with a 2-1 win over Dave Gatti’s depleted Hedon United side at Low Farm.  The Eastenders have to do things the hard way, following Chris Young’s early opener for the visitors.  Darren Thompson ties things up before the break and Ian Barrow scores the winner just ten minutes from time after a succession of chances have gone begging.  Paul Morrow makes his first team debut at substitute.

Thu 26.04.07

Match Reports & Press Releases added to Message Board

Thu 26.04.07

According to a message posted on the ERCFL web site Forum, Howden’s Chris Duguid, who required an ambulance following injury sustained just before the end of Saturday’s game at Low Farm, has “fractured his tibia in 2 places and has ligament damage”.  The best wishes of everybody at Easington United AFC go to him for a speedy recovery.

Thu 26.04.07

The Eastenders Reserves look set to benefit from six points, following Boothferry Rangers’ cancellation of Saturday’s scheduled trip to Low Farm and the League’s ratification of the award of a 1-0 “walkover” win from the game against Poachers FC.

Wed 25.04.07

The South Holderness Cup gets underway tonight with Hedon Rangers overcoming Patrington 5-3 after extra-time at Welwick Road.

The Eastenders begin their attempt to win the competition an unprecedented eighth time in eleven years tomorrow when they entertain Hedon United at Low Farm (6.30pm).

Tue 24.04.07

Boothferry Rangers’ 2-0 win over Sculcoates Amateurs Reserves leaves things looking tight at the bottom of the County Premier.

Tue 24.04.07

Steve Harrod is out of Thursday’s South Holderness Cup tie against Hedon United due to work commitments.

Sat 21.04.07

Despite a heartening performance, the Stiffs are beaten 5-2 at home by Howden Amateurs.  In a game of often high quality football, Dan Potts and Jamie Cousins twice bring the locals back level before Howden clinch matters late on.  The Stiffs are also unfortunate to see a second Potts ‘goal’ controversially disallowed, a strong penalty appeal by Paul Morrow go unheeded and several shots clawed or hacked away by an at times desperate Howden defence.  The game is abandoned 20 seconds early by referee Mr. Godfrey following serious injury to Howden’s Chris Duguid, which requires an ambulance.

There’s better news from Humbleton where the Casuals’ 3-1 win over Brandesburton 3rds, coupled with Withernsea’s defeat by Long Riston, ensures they will finish above the bottom two places.  The Clubley cousins, Dave and Rich, put the Casuals two up and Pasha Brown confirms victory with a third goal late on.

Fri 20.04.07

John Clarke names a strong-looking 14-man squad for tomorrow’s County League Premier Division game against title hopefuls Howden Amateurs at Low Farm (2.00pm).

Dan Potts and Darren Thompson are included along with the returning Craig Foster and Chris Senior.

Doug Clubley includes first team goalkeeper Kevin Appleyard in his side to face Brandesburton 3rds.  He has decided against handing a possible return to Ian Thurkettle having not heard from his regular Number One since he failed to show up for the Molescroft game.  With ‘Dooley’ Cousins injured and both Matty Purse and Glenn Ratcliffe cricketing, Clubley at present only has eleven players at his disposal.

SQUADS:

Reserves (v Howden): Rawlings, Fisk, Morrow, Potts, A McNaught, Metcalf, Richardson, McLaughlin, L Smith, Barnett, J Cousins, Foster, Senior, Thompson

Casuals (v Brandesburton): Appleyard, Jeffery, T Biglin, Hooley, I McNaught, D Campbell, D Clubley, Findley, R Clubley, C Smith, Brown, AN Other, SO Else

Thu 19.04.07

The Eastenders Reserves’ relegation worries are eased slightly by news of tonight’s concession of points by Poachers FC.  The Bridlington-based outfit are apparently unwilling to make the trip to Low Farm before the season’s end.  Meanwhile there is also some doubt over the scheduled home game against Boothferry Rangers this Saturday – the Hull side are reportedly struggling to field a team.

Wed 18.04.07

The Eastenders name their two squads for the South Holderness Cup.  First Team boss Dave Mack has included youngster Paul Morrow in his 18-man squad, along with Stuart Campbell (who could be available later in the competition should the Eastenders progress), the injured Kevin Milner (ditto the comments for Campbell) and himself.

Reserve team boss John Clarke has also named himself in a 20-man ‘B’ squad for the competition, with the only doubt surrounding the availability of Adam Swaby, sidelined for much of the season by work commitments.

SQUADS:

‘A’ v Hedon United, Preliminary Round: Appleyard, Batch, Smalley, Graham, Jeffery, Morrow, Barrow, Musgrove, Potts, Medforth, Rutter, Nicholson, Thompson, Harrod, Walmsley, S Campbell, Mackay-Dundas, Milner

‘B’ v Roos, Round 1: Rawlings, A McNaught, D Campbell, Fisk, Metcalfe, J Cousins, Barnett, Dawson, McLaughlin, Richardson, Senior, Ratcliffe, Foster, Purse, L Smith, Hooley, Findley, Swaby, D Clubley, Clarke

Wed 18.04.07

The Eastenders’ South Holderness Cup Preliminary Round tie against Hedon United has been fixed for next Thursday (26th) at Low Farm, kick-off 6.30pm.

Tue 17.04.07 (pm)

The Casuals slip to a damaging 3-2 defeat at relegation rivals Molescroft Rangers Reserves.  Leading 2-1 with barely five minutes left, they are sunk when stand-in goalkeeper ‘Dooley’ Cousins is beaten twice more by speculative efforts.  The result lifts the Beverley side over their opponents and leaves the Casuals second-bottom, a point behind.  Clubley’s side now require two points to go back above Molescroft, while four points from three games will also ensure that the Casuals cannot be caught by bottom club Withernsea 3rds.  David and Rich Clubley are the Casuals’ marksmen in tonight’s defeat.

Tue 17.04.07 (am)

Having just completed a suspension, John Batch is thrown straight into the Casuals’ relegation battle at Molescroft tonight.  The defender is accompanied by Dan Potts in a strong-looking squad that manager Clubley hopes can clinch the point required to keep ahead of their opponents, for whom the fixture is their last of the season.

SQUAD (v Molescroft): Thurkettle, Brown, T Biglin, Dawson, Batch, D Campbell, D Clubley, Findley, R Clubley, C Smith, Morrow, Potts, Metcalfe, S Cousins

Sat 14.04.07

The Eastenders complete their HPL Premier Division campaign with a 3-1 win at local rivals Withernsea.  Although the hosts feel harsh done by in terms of the goals they concede – two penalties and a third with more than a whiff of offside over it – it’s a game that should have seen a far more emphatic scoreline in favour of the visitors.  Mike Nicholson, in particular, misses a host of excellent chances before netting Easington’s third goal.  Andy Graham scores the other two from the spot with James Gell replying for the hosts in the last minute.

The Eastenders’ win leaves them fifth in the table but looking at a likely seventh-placed finish.  Elsewhere, Smith & Nephew and Sculcoates will contest the Grays Cup Final following today’s semis at Rotsea Lane (Hutton Cranswick).  First Division champions Smiths overcome Hornsea 3-1 after extra time while Scully beat Pocklington 2-0.  In the Premier Division, North Ferriby win an amazing game at Drapers Lane 9-5 after the hosts had come back from 2-5 down at half-time to tie things up with twenty minutes left!  Hessle Rangers and Hedon Rangers draw 1-1.

The Eastenders Reserves go down 4-0 at County League champions-elect Old George.  Despite the defeat, manager John Clarke is encouraged by the effort of his side, which includes seven teenagers.

Fri 13.04.07

The Eastenders have slipped to fifth in the HPL Premier Division following confirmation of Hornsea Town’s 2-1 win over Barton on Wednesday night.

Craig Foster, Chris Senior, Darren Dawson and Matty Findley are out of the Reserve side for tomorrow’s trip to County League Premier Division champions-elect Old George (AFC Charter) due to a mixture of personal and work commitments.  Glenn Ratcliffe and Paul Morrow are called-up as cover.

Thu 13.04.07

Manager Mack is set to hand Stu Campbell a start at left back in Saturday’s final HPL game of the season away at Withernsea.  Regular incumbent Kevin Milner is away giving Campbell the chance to play against his hometown club.  Steve Harrod also looks likely to get a start, probably at the expense of Ian Barrow who struggled last week with an ankle injury.  Ollie Musgrove returns to the squad after missing the Hornsea game due to “family commitments”.

Withernsea have added Tommy Reynolds to the squad that almost claimed a point at Low Farm a fortnight ago. 

In the County League Premier Division, Reserves boss John Clarke hopes to welcome Craig Foster, Jamie Cousins and Tom McLaughlin to his squad for the difficult trip to champions-elect Old George.  Youngster Paul Morrow should also be available again after missing out last week.  However, there are reported doubts over goalkeeper Chris Rawlings.

SQUADS:

First Team (v Withernsea) (probable): Appleyard, Medforth, S Campbell, Potts, Smalley, Graham, Jeffery, Nicholson, Thompson, Harrod, Rutter, Barrow, Musgrove, Walmsley, Mackay-Dundas

Reserves (v Old George): Rawlings, D Campbell, Fisk, Dawson, Richardson, A McNaught, Metcalfe, Senior, L Smith, Barnett, Foster, J Cousins, McLaughlin, Purse, Findley 

Wed 11.04.07

In the HPL Premier Division, Westella & Willerby win 4-1 at North Ferriby United Reserves.  Rumour has it that Hornsea Town also win, 2-1 at Barton Town but this requires confirmation.

Wed 11.04.07

Match Reports & Press Releases added to Message Board

Tue 10.04.07

Hedon Rangers earn a 1-1 draw at Reckitts in the HPL Premier Division.

Sat 07.04.07

The Eastenders and Hornsea Town play out a 1-1 draw in a distinctly “end-of-season affair” at Low Farm.  On a warm, sunny afternoon Dave Burnett gives Town a 43rd minute lead only for Neil Rutter to level matters from a Kevin Milner free-kick a minute later.

The result sees Easington slip to fifth in the table, following Westella & Willerby’s 4-2 win over Withernsea.  Elsewhere, North Ferriby are held at home by Hedon Rangers while Beverley Town win 6-1 at Hedon United.

Both Eastenders County League sides taste defeat.  The Reserves go down 4-2 at Skidby with their goals coming courtesy of Luke Smith and an ‘own goal’.  The Casuals are beaten 5-2 by Howden Town, Glenn Ratcliffe and Mike Hooley having brought the locals back into matters at 4-0 down.

Fri 06.04.07

Sculcoates Amateurs are crowned Humber Premier League champions after a 1-1 draw at Barton Town Old Boys Reserves tonight.

Fri 06.04.07

Dave Mackay-Dundas is hoping his Easington side can go out on a high tomorrow by beating Hornsea Town in their final home HPL Premier Division game of the season.  Mack wants his players to claim the win that will increase chances of sneaking an unlikely-looking top four finish.

The boss has been boosted by the return of assistant Dave Walmsley, striker Steve Harrod and Stu Campbell.  All three are likely to start on the bench with Luke Jeffery the favourite to benefit from John Batch’s absence due to suspension.  Craig Smalley is set to switch to a central defensive role with youngster Jeffery coming in for his first HPL start at right back.

Hornsea’s defeat by Sculcoates last week extinguished any faint hopes they had of a tilt at the title.  However, they remain well in the hunt for runners-up spot and are also in the Grays Cup semi-final, wherein they face Division 1 champions Smith & Nephew next week.

Elsewhere, the Reserves and Casuals both face mounting absent lists ahead of their County League games.  Stiffs boss John Clarke is without Craig Foster, Jamie Cousins, Tom McLaughlin and Paul Morrow for the trip to Skidby Millers.  Matty Findley and Matty Purse are added to the squad.  The loss of the latter pair leaves Casuals boss Doug Clubley with a major headache ahead of the game at Humbleton against promotion hopefuls Howden Town.  He is already without goalkeeper Ian Thurkettle and injured defender ‘Dooley’ Cousins.  Steve Eldon is set to return in goal having helped out at both reserve and first team level earlier in the season.

Tomorrow’s HPL match sponsorship is again being kindly provided by Brummitt Animal Health, 9 Bridge Bungalows, Burstwick (Tel. 01964 671045 / 01964 622271).

SQUADS:

First Team (v Hornsea Town): Appleyard, Jeffery, Milner, Potts, Smalley, Graham, Barrow, Nicholson, Thompson, Medforth, Rutter, Harrod, S Campbell, Walmsley

Reserves (v Skidby Millers): Rawlings, D Campbell, Fisk, Richardson, Senior, A McNaught, Dawson, Metcalf, L Smith, Barnett, Purse, Findley, Clarke, AN Other

Casuals (v Howden Town): Eldon, Stow, T Biglin, Brown, Hooley, I McNaught, D Clubley, Ratcliffe, R Clubley, C Smith, Swaby, AN Other, SO Else

Thu 05.04.07

Assistant-manager Dave Walmsley is set to return to action this Saturday, following some four weeks on the sidelines due to a combination of work and family commitments.

Tue 03.04.07

Steve Harrod gives manager Mack a boost by declaring himself available for Saturday’s final home game of the season against Hornsea Town.  Stuart Campbell, at home for three weeks’ leave from the Navy, is also added to the squad which is minus the suspended John Batch.

Tue 03.04.07

Both County League games involving our sides, initially scheduled for tonight, are postponed following complaints to the County League.  The games – the Reserves at home to Poachers and the Casuals away at Skidby – will now have to be rearranged.

Mon 02.04.07

The Eastenders have been handed a home draw against Hedon United in the preliminary round of the South Holderness Cup.  Should they win, a home tie against Patrington Stanley Utd ‘B’ awaits them in round 1 with the likelihood of Withernsea in the semi-finals.

As for the Eastenders ‘B’-squad, they face Roos at home in the last eight with a semi-final tie against either Patrington Stanley Utd, Hedon Rangers or AFC Preston awaiting the winners.

Sat 31.03.07
Members of Easington United's Humber Premier League squad show off the new warm-up tops kindly provided by ABB Ltd. The Company, who provide Engineering Services and Technical Consultancy to the worldwide process industry, has recently taken over the Inspection contract at BP Exploration's Dimlington terminal. Pictured displaying one of the new tops are Club Secretary Judy Sugden and General Manager Richard Lusmore. With them are (left to right): Neil Rutter (capt), Andy Graham, John Batch, Kevin Milner, Daniel Medforth, Craig Smalley, Luke Jeffery, David Mackay-Dundas (player-manager), Darren Thompson, Mike Nicholson and Ian Barrow (Photo: Dale Baxter)

The Eastenders' Humber Premier League squad display their new home kit as sponsored by the Holderness Gazette. Katie Allinson of the Gazette shows off one of the new shirts with Club Secretary Judy Sugden and General Manager Richard Lusmore, with the following squad members lined-up ahead of their game against local rivals Withernsea: (Back row) Kevin Milner, Andy Graham, Dave Mackay-Dundas (manager), Kevin Appleyard, Craig Smalley, Dan Potts, John Batch (Front row) Daniel Medforth, Neil Rutter (capt), Darren Thompson, Mike Nicholson, Ian Barrow, Luke Jeffery

Sat 31.03.07

It’s not pretty but it’s effective – just!  The Eastenders grind out a hard-fought 1-0 win over neighbours Withernsea at Low Farm in a game dominated by a blustery wind.  Seasiders’ keeper Phil Richardson inadvertently drops the ball into his own net for the game’s only goal, with his management appealing in vain for a foul against striker Darren Thompson.  The Seasiders are also left furious by the non-award of a penalty after Andy Graham and James Gell collide in the box.

Elsewhere, Sculcoates virtually assure themselves of the HPL title thanks to a 3-0 win over Hornsea Town.  Meanwhile, the Eastenders’ result takes them fourth thanks to defeats for Reckitts (1-3 by Hutton Cranswick) and North Ferriby’s inactivity.  Westella win 1-0 at Hessle.

In the County League Senior Cup, Reserves boss John Clarke is left fuming as his team crash out 3-1 at Reckitts Reserves.  Three goals inside the first half hour prove crucial with Stu Campbell’s second half reply providing mere consolation.

The Casuals put up a better show at Humbleton before losing out 3-2 to Division 4 leaders Skirlaugh.  Iain McNaught and Glenn Ratcliffe are on target for the locals.

Sat 31.03.07

There is a double blow for Dave Mack overnight with the news that Steve Harrod and Paul Wilkinson have both pulled out of the squad to meet Withernsea this afternoon.  Harrod is working while Wilks is “unavailable” for selection; apparently he is unhappy at not making the starting eleven.

The latest withdrawals leave Mack with just youngster Luke Jeffery and himself on the bench.  With the Reserves involved in their “biggest game of the season” this afternoon, he is understandably reluctant to call anybody else off them.  “I’ve still got every confidence in those players who are available” says the boss.

Fri 30.03.07

The Eastenders receive a boost with the news that Kevin Milner is available for tomorrow’s HPL Premier Division game against Withernsea at Low Farm (2.00pm).

The left-back looks set to line-up against his former club in an unchanged side to that which started at Barton.  This means Danny Medforth, Paul Wilkinson and Luke Jeffery remain on the bench.

With three local derbies comprising the Eastenders’ final three league games, manager Mack is looking for a vast improvement on the performance that accompanied the last such fixture, at home to Hedon Rangers three weeks ago.  He’s also urging his players to use it as preparation for the South Holderness Cup, which begins in earnest next month.

Withernsea have enjoyed a better run of form in recent weeks although Hedon Rangers’ mini-revival means the Seasiders have returned to the bottom of the table.

Following their change of fixture, the Reserves face perhaps their biggest game of the season so far when they travel to the University to meet Reckitts Reserves in the League Senior Cup quarter-finals.  John Clarke has lost Tom McLaughlin and Paul Morrow from the side that drew with Skidby last weekend.  Stu Campbell and Chris Senior are therefore named in a fourteen-man squad that also includes the manager himself.

Having appeared at one time as if he would be spoilt for choice ahead of his game with leaders Skirlaugh at Humbleton, Casuals manager Doug Clubley is now struggling to field eleven players.  Definitely out are ‘Dooley’ Cousins (injury) and Chris Smith (away), while Mike Hooley is doubtful through injury and Adam Swaby again looks to be ruled out by work commitments.      

The Eastenders will use tomorrow’s HPL game to unveil their new 2007/08 playing strip, which has been kindly sponsored by The Holderness Gazette.  Tomorrow’s fixture at Low Farm is being kindly sponsored by Alan Saxton (Plumber & Heating Engineer) of Patrington (Tel. 01964 630752).

SQUADS:

First Team (v Withernsea): Appleyard, Smalley, Milner, Potts, Batch, Graham, Barrow, Rutter, Thompson, Harrod, Nicholson, Wilkinson, Medforth, Jeffery

Reserves (v Reckitts Reserves): Rawlings, D Campbell, Fisk, A McNaught, Richardson, Dawson, Metcalf, J Cousins, Foster, L Smith, Barnett, S Campbell, Senior, Clarke

Casuals (v Skirlaugh): Thurkettle, Brown, T Biglin, Findley, I McNaught, Hooley, D Clubley, Ratcliffe, R Clubley, Stow, Purse, Swaby, A N Other

Thu 29.03.07

The County League fixture list for April has thrown up a few questions as far as the Eastenders squads are concerned, mainly to do with the high number of midweek fixtures contained therein.

Wed 28.03.07

In the HPL Premier Division Beverley Town win 5-2 at Barton Town OB Reserves.

Wed 28.03.07

A change of fixture for the weekend now means the Reserves are involved in league cup action on Saturday.  John Clarke’s side go to Reckitts Reserves in the quarter final of the League Senior Cup.

Wed 28.03.07

Manager Mack is facing a mini-crisis ahead of Saturday’s local derby against Withernsea.  In addition to the injured Rob Kamis, he is also without Ollie Musgrove and Dave Walmsley while Kevin Milner is a doubt.

Musgrove (pictured) is on duty with the ER County FA Junior squad in their Northern Counties semi-final against Lancashire FA at Leyland and Walmsley is still sidelined by family commitments.  Meanwhile, Milner is scheduled to be away for the weekend although that is still to be confirmed at time of going to print.

The Reserves and Casuals also face potential shortages at the weekend.  Young duo Tom McLaughlin and Paul Morrow are both definitely out, due to holiday and a recent mouth operation respectively.  Doubtful due to injury are Glenn Ratcliffe (toe), Mike Hooley (groin), ‘Dooley’ Cousins (calf) and Matty Findley (hamstring), while Adam Swaby is again struggling with work commitments.

Sat 24.03.07

The Eastenders return to action with a 1-1 draw against Barton Town OB Reserves.  At their opponents’ impressive-looking Marsh Lane venue, Mike Nicholson gives Easington a 35th minute lead but the South Bank side hit back on 65mins to tie things up.  An entertaining game between two evenly-matched teams leaves manager Mack satisfied with a point.

Elsewhere leaders Sculcoates maintain their challenge on three fronts with a 1-0 win over Westella & Willerby in the quarter finals of the Grays League Cup.

In the Premier Division there are wins for Hutton Cranswick (2-0 over Pocklington), Hornsea Town (1-0 at Hedon Rangers) and North Ferriby (4-1 over Hedon United).  Reckitts are held to a 1-1 draw by Beverley Town at Norwood and Withernsea come from two down to draw at Hessle, goalkeeper Phil Richardson volleying home a last-gasp equaliser.

In the County League Premier Division, the Reserves remain fifth in the table after storming back from 1-4 down to snatch a point at home to Skidby Millers.  Craig Foster bags a brace and has a hand in a third which is inadvertently turned into his own net by a Millers defender.  Luke Smith is the other Stiff on target.

Fri 23.03.07

Eastenders Reserve team boss John Clarke is hoping his players can continue the form shown against Old George when they return to league action tomorrow.  The Stiffs entertain Skidby Millers at Low Farm (2.00pm) with Clarke having to find replacements for Dan Potts, Danny Medforth and Darren Thompson who are all on first team duty.  New signing Paul Morrow is included in the squad following a fine display on debut with the Casuals last weekend.  Darren Dawson and Matty Purse are two other names mentioned as possible call-ups after both players have also impressed in recent weeks.

SQUAD (Probable): C Rawlings, D Campbell, B Fisk, A McNaught, A Metcalf, T McLaughlin, M Richardson, L Smith, C Foster, A Barnett, J Cousins, P Morrow, D Dawson,   

Fri 23.03.07

Manager Mack has named a 16-man squad for tomorrow’s game at Barton but is still deliberating over his starting line-up.  He must choose whether to restore John Batch back to the defence and allow Neil Rutter, man of the match there against Hedon Rangers, to return to his favoured midfield role.  In addition, the manager has the options of Danny Medforth, Darren Thompson or Paul Wilkinson as partner for Steve Harrod up front.  The only downer is the likely absence of Dave Walmsley due to personal commitments.  Oh, and the presence of a couple of key squad members on a stag party taking place in York tonight!

The Eastenders bet David Mail’s side 4-0 at Low Farm earlier in the season but Barton’s form has picked up of late and, as with any reserve team, one can never be

SQUAD: K Appleyard, C Smalley, K Milner, D Potts, N Rutter, A Graham, I Barrow, D Medforth, S Harrod, M Nicholson, D Thompson, P Wilkinson, J Batch, L Jeffery, O Musgrove, D Walmsley

Fri 23.03.07

Match Reports & Press Releases added to Message Board

Thu 22.03.07

Mark Richardson has his 7-day suspension, received for picking up five cautions this season, rescinded after the ERCFA acknowledged inaccuracies on the original caution sheet.  The midfielder is now free to play on Saturday 14 April.

Wed 21.03.07

Barton Town OB Reserves’ scheduled home game against Reckitts tonight is off, apparently due to a waterlogged Marsh Lane pitch.  The decision must cast some doubt over the weekend’s HPL game at the same venue.

Tue 20.03.07

As expected the Casuals are without a fixture this Saturday.  They are down to play Withernsea 3rds away but have already met the Seasiders twice this season, the most recent occasion being just over a week ago!

Mon 19.03.07

Another excellent turnout at training tonight and a near full strength squad from which Dave Mack has to choose ahead of Saturday’s game against Barton Town OB Reserves at Marsh Lane.  Aside from Rob Kamis who is sidelined with rib and knee injuries that look set to keep him out for the remainder of the season, Mack should have plenty of options available.  Asst-mgr Dave Walmsley is doubtful due to ongoing family commitments but Ollie Musgrove, John Batch and Luke Jeffery all come back into contention.

In addition, Dan Potts continued his return to full fitness by playing a big part in the Reserves’ fine cup win at the weekend.

Sat 17.03.07

The Reserves clinch their most impressive win of the season to dump Premier Division leaders Old George out of the County League Senior Cup.  In a game that sees three players sent off, Anthony Barnett scores twice and Brett Fisk nets an 86th minute winner in a 3-2 success over the Goole side.  John Clarke’s side now face a trip to Reckitts Reserves in the quarter-finals.

Sadly the Casuals can’t quite match their club-mates’ efforts.  Despite dominating matters territorially, Doug Clubley’s side go down by the only goal of the game against Division 4 title favourites DADS FC at Humbleton in the quarter-finals of the Harold Robinson Cup.

In the HPL, Premier Division leaders Sculcoates edge closer to the title thanks to a 1-1 draw with Pocklington Town at Hull & ER Sports Ground.  Nearest challengers Westella & Willerby and Hutton Cranswick United both lose, at Beverley and Hornsea Town respectively.  At the bottom, Hedon Rangers continue their mini-revival with a 2-0 win at neighbours Hedon United taking them further clear of bottom club Withernsea, beaten 6-0 at Reckitts for whom Andy Martin grabs a hat-trick.

Fri 16.03.07

John Batch faces further time on the sidelines after his Misconduct case was found proven at a recent ERCFA Disciplinary hearing.  The central defender, who has just returned from a 7-day ban for picking up five cautions this season, has been suspended for 14 days (2-15 April) following his initial dismissal against Hedon Rangers last month.  He also faces another 7-day suspension next season (10-16 Sep) following the ERCFA’s ruling over the misconduct charge picked up at the same game.

Mark Richardson is another player to receive bad news today.  The midfielder, who has struggled to establish a place in the HPL squad since arriving in the autumn, has been given the mandatory 7-day suspension for having received five cautions this season, following the booking picked up at Sculcoates Amateurs Reserves in the HE Dean Cup.  However, having studied the details of each individual case, it appears the Eastenders may have grounds for appeal.  If this doesn’t prove the case, ‘Rico’ will serve his suspension from 9-16 April.

Tue 13.03.07

Barton Town OB Reserves and Hutton Cranswick draw 3-3 at Marsh Lane in the HPL Premier Division.

Sat 10.03.07

Dave Mack describes this afternoon’s 2-0 home defeat by Hedon Rangers as the “lowest point of my managerial career”.  Kenny Harrison’s side lift themselves off the foot of the table with two goals inside the last twelve minutes from Andy O’Loughlin and Mike Dowd.

The result virtually ends the locals’ hopes of a top four finish despite Hutton Cranswick’s 2-1 defeat by leaders Sculcoates Amateurs.  North Ferriby Reserves’ 2-0 win over Withernsea puts further pressure on the Eastenders’ current position.

There’s better news from Hull Road where the Casuals move out of the bottom two in County League Division 4 thanks to a 3-0 win at Withernsea 3rds.  Chris Smith, Anthony Barnett and Dave Clubley are on target with Clubley also seeing a penalty saved by impressive young Withernsea keeper Healing.

Fri 09.03.07

Manager Mack faces some late juggling around before finalising his squad for the HPL Premier Division game against Hedon Rangers at Low Farm (2.00pm).

Central defender John Batch serves a one-week suspension, winger Ollie Musgrove is on duty with the ERCFA Juniors, defender Luke Jeffery is injured and assistant-manager Dave Walmsley is ruled out by family commitments.

Skipper Neil Rutter looks likely to be given the role alongside Andy Graham at the heart of the back four with Craig Smalley returning from suspension at right back.  In midfield, Mike Nicholson will almost certainly be asked to play wide with Dan Potts set to return in the centre for his first start at this level since December.  Manager Mack must now decide between Darren Thompson and Rob Kamis for the place alongside Steve Harrod up front.  Further complication is provided by the reported availability of striker Paul Wilkinson.  There’s also talk of a return to the senior squad for Reserves’ asst-boss Andy McNaught due to a shortage of defensive options on the Eastenders’ bench.

The game is being kindly sponsored by Holderness Tyre Services Ltd of Burstwick Service Station, Ellifoot Lane, Burstwick.

Meanwhile, Casuals boss Doug Clubley looks set to include the former Juniors quartet of Jamie Cousins, Tom McLaughlin, Brett Fisk and ‘Bezza’ Barnett in his side to face Withernsea Thirds in the Division 4 basement battle at Hull Road.

Thu 08.03.07

Match Reports & Press Releases added to Message Board

Sat 03.03.07

The Club is delighted to announce the deadline day signing of promising youngster Paul Morrow.  The 16-year-old from Hedon is from the same Willerby Wanderers boys team that Luke Jeffery and Tom McLaughlin were members of and comes to Low Farm having just been released by Hull City.

Sat 03.03.07

There are contrasting fortunes for the Eastenders’ two County League squads today.  The Reserves exit the H. E. Dean (President’s) Cup via a 2-1 extra-time defeat at Premier Division rivals Sculcoates Amateurs Reserves.  Luke Smith is on target for the Stiffs.

However, in Division 4 there is a welcome win for the Casuals at Humbleton.  Two goals apiece for Chris Smith and Matty Purse help the locals come from a goal down to beat Holme Rovers Reserves 4-2. 

In another restricted HPL Premier Division programme, it takes an 89th minute goal to earn leaders Sculcoates a 1-0 win at bottom club Hedon Rangers.  Hutton Cranswick maintain their outside hopes of the title thanks to a 2-0 win at Beverley Town and Reckitts thump Hedon United 8-1.

Fri 02.03.07

Tomorrow’s HPL Premier Division game at Low Farm is off following an inspection by referee Paul Cook.

However, both the Reserves’ County League Cup tie at Sculcoates and the Casuals’ Division 4 match with Holme Rovers Reserves at Humbleton are on; as is the weekly Junior Coaching Session at Low Farm.

Thu 01.03.07

The Reserves’ HE Dean Cup third round tie at Sculcoates Amateurs looks likely to go ahead given a favourable forecast for tomorrow and Saturday.  With the senior squad’s game against Hornsea looking very doubtful, it’s likely that Dan Potts may continue his return to action with John Clarke’s side.

Wed 28.02.07

At tonight’s monthly Committee Meeting, groundsman Brian Biglin expresses grave doubts about Low Farm’s ability to stage the weekend’s scheduled HPL game against Hornsea Town.  Heavy rain on Tuesday has simply exacerbated the problems caused by children playing on the pitch during the recent half-term break, the result of which is a horrendous mud-bath in the Seaside Road End goalmouth.  There is also a large amount of standing water down the far touchline as you look out from the changing pavilion.

Mon 26.02.07

John Batch faces a long spell on the sidelines following a misconduct charge received after his dismissal at Hedon Rangers.  The defender – who has been outstanding snce coming to Low Farm – already faces a ban on Saturday week (10th) after reaching five bookings for the season.  In addition he has received 14 days for the red card at Destiny Fitness and now faces possible further punishment as a result of the latest charge.  The Club are considering their response, which must be in to the ERCFA by 8 March.

Sat 24.02.07

Two HPL Premier Division games survive the latest bout of rain, neither affecting the top of the table.  Beverley Town trounce Hessle Rangers 9-1 at Brough and Pocklington beat bottom club Hedon Rangers 2-0 at The Balk.

Fri 23.02.07

The weekly Junior Coaching Session tomorrow is still on.

Fri 23.02.06

All three games involving Easington teams this weekend are off, following a week of persistent rainfall.  Withernsea call off their HPL Premier Division game against the Eastenders at 1.30pm with Hull Road Playing Fields suitable only to “snorkel and flippers” according to Chairman John Dunn.    Low Farm and Humbleton Recreation Ground are in a similar poor state, forcing early postponement of both the Reserves’ County Premier game against Boothferry Rangers and the Casuals’ date with Molescroft in Division 4.

Mon 19.02.07

Congratulations to Steve Harrod and Gemma on the safe arrival of daughter Rosie Isabella.

Mon 19.02.07

Match Reports & Press Releases added to Message Board

Sat 17.02.07

In the only HPL Premier Division game to beat the weather, the Eastenders win 4-0 at Hedon Rangers to move fourth.  Darren Thompson comes off the bench to score twice after goals from Steve Harrod and Ollie Musgrove have given Dave Mack’s side a two-goal half-time cushion.  Kevin Appleyard saves an Adie Cooper penalty five minutes from time to preserve a third clean sheet in four league games but the victory is marred slightly when John Batch receives two yellow cards in the same incident two minutes from time.

Sat 17.02.07

As expected, the Casuals’ game against DADS FC at Low Farm is postponed due to a waterlogged Low Farm pitch.

Fri 16.02.07

The Club completes the sale of its tenth corporate table for the Diamond Celebration Event at the Country Park Inn, Hessle on 30 June.  Individual tickets for the event, at which Jack Charlton OBE is guest speaker, are available at £30 each from either Craig Foster (01964 630933) or Neil Rutter (01964 626402).

Fri 16.02.07

It may prove academic in view of more rain (there are inspections at Destiny Fitness and Low Farm tomorrow morning) but both Dave Mack and Doug Clubley put the finishing touches to their squads ahead of the two matches involving Easington teams this weekend.

Mack is without Rob Kamis for the short trip to Hedon Rangers, giving rise to speculation over who will get the final starting place in a 14-man squad.

Rangers are enduring a miserable time of things at the moment and are bottom following Withernsea’s recent mini-revival.  Kenny Harrison’s team come into the game on the back of a 9-0 hammering by Smith & Nephew in the Grays League Cup.  A side that likes to try and play football, it’s one of the traditionally more enjoyable ‘derby’ games on the calendar…given the right result of course!

The Casuals are preparing to entertain DADS FC in the quarter-finals of the league’s Harold Robinson Cup.  With Matty Findley having trained on Monday, the only doubts surround Trevor Biglin (heavy cold) and Adam Swaby (possible work commitments).  Several players who’ve been warming the senior squads’ benches in recent weeks could come into contention.

SQUADS:

First Team (v Hedon Rangers): Appleyard, Smalley, Milner, Rutter, Batch, Graham, Barrow, Nicholson, Medforth, Harrod, Musgrove, Thompson, Walmsley, Jeffery

Casuals (v DADS FC): Thurkettle, S Cousins, T Biglin, Swaby, I McNaught, Hooley, Dawson, Potts, R Clubley, D Clubley, M Purse, Findley, AN Other, SO Else

Thu 15.02.07

The Casuals’ Harold Robinson Cup tie against DADS FC this weekend is in doubt due to the state of pitches at both Humbleton and Low Farm.  Harry Jackson describes the Humbleton Recreation Ground as “okay at the moment but it won’t stand much more rain”, while at Low Farm Brim Biglin says, “It’s barely playable at the moment in several patches and given the forecast for more rain tonight and tomorrow I’m not very hopeful.

Meanwhile, an inspection ahead of the HPL Premier Division game at the Destiny Fitness Ground is planned for tomorrow.

Thu 15.02.07

The draws for the later stages of the County League cup competitions provide difficult tasks for both Easington County League squads. 

In a draw complicated due to the recent disruption by the weather, the H.E. Dean Cup third round draw sees the Eastenders Reserves making the trip to their Sculcoates counterparts.  The winners travel to either Viking Raiders or Aldbrough in the quarter-finals.

The same Scully-Eastenders pairing could also come about in the League Senior Cup semi-finals – should both teams win the necessary games in-between to get there!  The locals are due to entertain Old George in their outstanding second round tie, with a win meaning a trip to Reckitts Reserves in the quarter-finals.  Should they win that game, then it’s one from Hornsea Town Reserves, Holme Rovers, Lord Nelson or the aforementioned Scully who awaits them for a place in the final!

At least the Casuals have a slightly less complicated path to a possible place in the Harold Robinson Cup semi-finals.  They simply have to beat DADS FC this weekend!  If they can manage that it’s Hornsea Town 3rds or Shiptonthorpe or Eastrington Village away in the last four.

Thu 15.02.07

Match Reports & Press Releases added to Message Board

Tue 13.02.07

Rob Kamis is out of the Eastenders’ trip to Hedon Rangers this Saturday, due to work commitments.

Mon 12.02.07

The Club receives confirmation from the East Riding County FA of its acceptance by the FA into the 2007 School-Club Link Programme.

Sat 10.02.07

One result of real interest for Easington supporters today comes at Withernsea where DADS FC overcome The Seasiders third-string 6-4 in the Harold Robinson Cup.  The Dene Park outfit – favourites for the Division 4 title – are now set to meet the Casuals in the quarter-finals next weekend.

Sat 10.02.07

In another piece of news worthy of publicising here before it eventually appears in print, Eastenders general manager Richard Lusmore congratulates two of the Club’s stalwarts on their recent magnificent appearance milestones.  In his “General Matters” piece in today’s now-defunct match programme, he says: “I’d like to take the opportunity to congratulate Iain McNaught on his marvellous achievement of having made 600 appearances for the Club.  That’s over 600 half-time smokes and about 350 yellow/red cards in 24 years!  I’d also like to give a nod in the direction of Craig Foster, who clocked up a similarly fantastic milestone when making his 550th Eastenders appearance recently.  Both players epitomise the loyalty present within the current squad and are shining examples of just why this Club has come so far in recent times.”

A full season-by-season breakdown of Iain McNaught’s appearances is provided elsewhere in the programme and will appear in that which accompanies the next HPL home game at The Farm.

Sat 10.02.07

With today’s games falling victim to the weather and no match programme due again this month, it’s perhaps worthwhile here revealing the views of general manager Rich Lusmore and first team boss Dave Mack as printed for the match programme against Withernsea.

Therein both men acknowledge the disappointment of the Hornsea cup defeat while agreeing that their opponents just about deserved their passage into the quarter-finals.

Lusmore is also moved to comment on the performance of last week’s man-in-the-middle.  He writes: “It was interesting when speaking to our opponents after the game how both teams had been disappointed by the standard of refereeing.  It’s something I wouldn’t normally air publicly but last Saturday was the fourth or fifth game I’ve been involved with this season in which both teams have come close to submitting, or have actually submitted, reports on the quality of the officials.  Prior to this season, I can only recall writing two such reports in the seven years of the Humber Premier League.” 

Dave Mack writes about some of the newer members of the first team squad, beginning with Rob Kamis.  “Rob has come to us with a sound track record for scoring goals but he has already shown in his three appearances so far that there is far more to his game than just being a finisher.  Hopefully, we've managed to find another real talent that could quite easily have signed for a club more local to his native Hull.  It's worth reminding people when questioning players commitment that some of these lads travel 60-odd miles every Saturday just to play for our club and all they ask is to be treated the same as every other person here.”

The manager also expresses his admiration of the way Luke Jeffery has done in his three outings so far.  He says, “Still only sixteen, he has shown what a great future he has in the game and hopefully it'll be in the green and yellow of Easington!”

Finally there is praise for Darren Thompson, called up to today’s squad in recognition of his ever improving performances for the reserve team.  Mack is keen to highlight Darren’s recent partnership with Craig Foster at Stiffs level, saying “In my time at the club, Craig certainly nailed the "how to score a goal" scenario and, as Darren eagerly points out, he's learnt hell of a lot in a short space of time with his veteran strike partner.  It again goes to show that when players drop down from the first team for whatever reason, there's still plenty of life in this club below the Humber Premier League.”

Sat 10.02.07

All three of today’s games involving Easington teams are off.  Persistent overnight rain renders the pitches at Cottingham (Northfield) and Humbleton (Casuals) unplayable, while Low Farm survives a first pitch inspection at 9.30am before more rain finally forces postponement at eleven o’clock.

Fri 09.02.07

The postponement of the ERCFA Juniors’ game against Cumberland at Egremont tomorrow means Ollie Musgrove is available for the Eastenders’ HPL game against Withernsea at Low Farm. 

Fri 09.02.07

Dave Mack is looking for a big response from his players ahead of tomorrow’s local derby against Withernsea at Low Farm in the HPL Premier Division (2.00pm).

The Eastenders manager admits he is still disappointed by last week’s Grays Cup defeat at Hornsea but knows the need for his side to quickly get that out of their system if they’re to continue their fine league form.  Three successive wins have lifted the locals up to fifth in the table and, with five of the last six games to come against teams below them, there is the chance for the Eastenders to make up ground on the top four (who all have each other to play).

However, a repeat of last season’s comfortable wins over The Seasiders appears unlikely.  John Dunn’s side have shown improved form of late and moved off the bottom of the table for the first time last week thanks to a 5-0 win at Hedon United.

Mack is still waiting on Luke Jeffery and has called up Darren Thompson in the wake of Ollie Musgrove’s involvement with the County FA Juniors.

Tomorrow’s game is being sponsored by Alan Saxton (Plumbing & Heating Engineer) of Patrington (Tel. 01964-630752).

The Reserves go to Northfield Athletic in the County League Premier Division, hoping to atone for their 4-1 home defeat back in October.  In Division 4 the Casuals entertain Brandesburton 3rds at Humbleton.  Both John Clarke and Doug Clubley will delay their final squad selection until tonight, in view of an ever-growing absent list.

SQUADS:

First Team (v Withernsea): Appleyard, Smalley, Milner, Rutter, Batch, Graham, Barrow, Nicholson, Kamis, Medforth, Harrod, Jeffery, Thompson, Walmsley

Reserves (v Northfield Athletic): TBC

Casuals (v Brandesburton 3rds): TBC

Thu 08.02.07

Absences are set to bite deeply into the Easington squads ahead of this weekend’s games.  In the senior squad, Ollie Musgrove is away on ERCFA Junior Rep duty and Luke Jeffery is an injury doubt after having received a knock whilst playing for North Ferriby U18’s on Sunday.  Meanwhile, Reserves boss John Clarke has seen Darren Thompson promoted to the first team and is without Jamie Cousins and Tom McLaughlin (both skiing).  He is also still awaiting a satisfactory explanation for Pasha Brown’s absence last Saturday.  At Casuals level the picture looks no better.  Matty Findley and Trevor Biglin are both injury doubts, Kevin Brewer has still not been in touch since his “no show” last week and work commitments continue to put Chris Smith’s availability in doubt.  With several players also likely to be called up to cover the gaps in the senior squads, manager Doug Clubley is again left sweating on numbers.

Wed 07.02.07

In-form reserve team striker Darren Thompson is called up by Dave Mack to face local rivals Withernsea at Low Farm on Saturday.  The 22-year-old scored his 11th and 12th league goals of the season in Saturday’s win over Reckitts Reserves and has been championed for a chance with the senior squad for some time.  Thompson’s only previous HPL experience came as a substitute in the 3-0 win at Hedon United in December 2004.  In explaining the timing of his latest selection, manager Mack says, “I’ve been hearing good reports about Darren all season and after last week’s display John (Clarke) now feels the time is right for him to step up.  Apparently he was outstanding against Reckitts and he’s feeling confident at the minute, which is good for us.”  In his programme notes ahead of Saturday’s game, Mack also acknowledges the part played by Craig Foster in Thompson’s development.  Therein he states: “In my time at the club, Craig certainly nailed the "how to score a goal" scenario and, as Darren eagerly points out, he's learnt hell of a lot in a short space of time with his veteran strike partner”.

Sat 03.02.07

For the second successive year the Eastenders’ hopes of repeating their 2004 success in the Grays HPL Cup are ended at the second round stage by Hornsea Town at the Hollis Recreation Ground.  And, similar to last season’s 1-0 defeat, Dave Mack’s side are again edged out in a tight affair, this time going down by the odd goal in three.

Town substitute Chris Langley proves his side’s hero, with goals in the 50th and 75th minutes; substitute Steve Harrod replies for Easington on 61mins.  Hornsea will now go on to meet Hessle Rangers in the quarter-finals.

Elsewhere in the competition Pocklington Town edge out Beverley 3-2 on penalties after the sides are locked 2-2 after extra-time.  Reckitts are also pushed all the way by First Division side Pinefleet Wolfreton before winning 3-2 and there are comfortable wins for runaway Division 1 leaders Smith & Nephew (9-0 at Hedon Rangers) and Westella & Willerby (6-1 over Division 1 side Long Riston).

In the Premier Division, Sculcoates Amateurs are forced to work hard for a 2-0 win at Hessle Rangers, Mark Lever and Mark Smith scoring for the leaders in the second half.  Hutton Cranswick go second with their sixth straight win courtesy of Mike Tate’s second half brace that proves enough to beat fellow hopefuls North Ferriby.  At the other end, Withernsea move off the bottom thanks to a 5-0 win at fellow strugglers Hedon United.  Hedon Rangers now occupy bottom spot.

In the County League, the Eastenders Reserves take another step to ensuring Premier Division football next season with a 4-3 win over Reckitts Reserves.  Darren Thompson and Craig Foster bag a brace apiece, Thompson’s goals taking his season’s league tally to twelve.

There is not such good news for the Casuals in Division 4.  Another depleted line-up goes down 0-5 against promotion chasing Skidby Millers Reserves at Humbleton.  With Withernsea 3rds picking up a creditable point at Long Riston, the gap at the bottom is reduced to 3pts.

Sat 03.02.07

Coach Danny Campbell is encouraged by the attendance at the first “Fun Junior Football Coaching Session”, which takes place at Low Farm this morning.  About ten youngsters attend with the promise of several more coming next weekend.  Dan says, “I thought the morning went very well, the kids seemed to enjoy themselves and they were having lots of fun.  Just from what I saw, there are definitely some good young players.  We had ten at the session and I’m sure that this may well increase in future weeks. Being positive, on this evidence I’m sure that Mini Soccer coming to the Farm can prove a reality.”

Fri 02.02.07

The Club takes delivery of its third new playing strip of the season, thanks to a sponsorship arrangement with local newspaper The Holderness Gazette.  The kit, a classy looking bottle green & gold affair is again supplied by Manchester manufacturers Lazer Kits and has been sponsored by the Gazette with the Club’s Diamond Celebration very much in mind.  It is set to be unveiled prior to the Withernsea game at Low Farm on Saturday week (10th).