The Career of Leo Nacho

Club Statement: Redditch United to turn semi-professional

13th April 2065

By Chairperson Alex Howard

Following the recent confirmation of our promotion from the Coventry Alliance League Premier Division the club has made the decision to move from being amateur to semi-professional ahead of the 2065/2066 season. The change will allow our players to focus more on their playing commitments as we offer some form of compensation and will allow for more specified training from game to game.

The club sees this as a vital step in our journey towards one day becoming a fully professional side and hopefully one day being a club that can see itself competing in the Football League, something the club has never done so far in its existence. We remain committed to making sure the club is sustainable long after we're gone.

The club would like to thank everyone involved last season that has made this possible.

Goals from Lancaster and Byles see the Reds sign off at home in style

13th April 2065

By the Press Team

Coventry Alliance League Premier Division

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 2-0 Inkberrow Reserves

On the result.

Very pleased with the result and on another day it could have been more than just 2-0. I'm happy the players were able to send the home fans off on a winning note and I'm also delighted that Kurtis Lancaster was able to get his first goal for the club. He's worked so hard since joining us back in October and it's such a relief for him now that he's finally off the mark.

On the news that the club is turning semi-professional ahead of next season.

It's big news, but not a total surprise as me and Alex had been discussing what may or may not happen if we secured promotion. I think it's the right decision and the right step to allow the players, especially the youth players, a little more time to concentrate on their football. It's the right decision at the right time in my opinion and if we get this right it could set the club up for years to come.

On the goal for next season.

There's a long time between now and the start of the season, so a lot can change, but ideally I'd like to build on the squad we've got here and hopefully be able to push for another promotion. It's really difficult to say with exact certainty as over the next few weeks and months the squad could change a lot, which is just one of those things you've got to consider and overcome at this level.

On a message to the supporters ahead of next season.

Well, firstly I'd like to say thank you so much for this seasons support. Home and away they've been terrific and I do think they've been instrumental in us achieving this promotion. For next season I can only ask for the same, please get behind the lads and let's see how far we can another level up. I'm very excited about where we're going as a club and the fans are a huge part of that.

Redditch United complete invincible season with 0-0 draw

25th April 2065

By the Press Team

Coventry Alliance League Premier Division

Full Time from the Beehive

Studley 0-0 Redditch United

On the result.

It's a huge result in the context that it means we've completed an invincible season and that's a rare thing to do at any level.

On the performance.

It lacked our usual intensity I'd say and we've done well to get away with the draw in my opinion. In the end it's probably our only poor performance this season and credit to the lads for battling to get that draw and complete that invincible season.

On remaining unbeaten all season.

It's a really big and cool achievement. In 20 or so years these players can always look back and say they were part of the Redditch United squad that went an entire season without losing a single game. They'll also be able to slip in there that we were promoted too.

Lancaster the hat-trick hero as the Reds start new campaign with victory

5th September 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from Meadow Lane

Birstall United 3-4 Redditch United

On the result.

It's a superb way to start the new season and I'm pleased to leave with the three points. Our first game after promotion at this level and we've done enough to win it and to do that away from home in our first fixture is a great start.

On the hat-trick from Kurtis Lancaster.

Tremendous performance from him today. Many might not know, but we had to fight hard during the summer to keep him here and you've seen today why other sides were after him. He was unstoppable today and hopefully it's the first of many goals this season.

On almost blowing a 3-0 lead.

We'll look at the goals we conceded and what we could have done better before our next game, but let's not dwell on it so much and be too negative. We've won the game, sure we've switched off a little towards the end, but for most of the game we were the better team and if we perform like that all season I'd say we'd blow most teams away. Obviously, you don't want to be conceding goals or letting a 3-0 lead slip, so we'll work on the defensive side of things and try stop that happening.

Two wins from two as Richard Lewis scores stunning volley

12th September 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 3-1 Holmer Green

On the result.

No complaints from me, I'm very happy. To get promoted last season and start the new campaign with two wins from two games and maximum points, I'm chuffed. Credit to the players, they've really stepped up.

On the wonderful goal from Richard Lewis.

Puskas award worthy? What a hit, what a goal and to see a centre back score that type of goal is unbelievable. I mean the defenders think they've cleared that corner, but what a volley from an impossible angle and the goalkeeper had no hope it was hit with that much power.

On another key performance from Szymon Stanczak.

It's been a superb start from the lad and it's important to remember he's only turned 17 during the summer. He went back to Poland to spend some time in his hometown during the break and he's come back in brilliant shape, extremely fit and with Shavar Colquhoun leaving the club he's got his opportunity and he's taking full advantage of it at the moment. A goal today and an assist last week, he's doing really well and I'm delighted to see a young academy graduate doing well in the first team.

Lancaster scores another hat-trick as the Reds hammer Cropredy

19th September 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from the Cropredy Sports & Social Club

Cropredy 1-5 Redditch United

On the result.

A great performance and a great result for us. A convincing performance up front and at the back, we controlled possession and we deserved to win by that margin today. Simply fantastic and I'm very pleased with the result.

On the start to the 2065/2066 season.

In all honesty I couldn't have really asked for more. Three games, three wins, plenty of goals and we've improved at the back already after the first game. We just need to keep working hard and try to continue being consistent.

On another hat-trick from Kurtis Lancaster.

Absolutely delighted with another top performance from him and another hat-trick is superb. Part of me hopes he does that every week, but not sure we can afford to pay him the goal bonus for hat-tricks every single week, but no, honestly a superb start to the season from Kurtis and he's getting his reward for the patience he showed last season and he's seizing his opportunity now.

Stoppage time drama as the Reds rescue late draw at the Valley Stadium

26th September 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 1-1 Littleton

On the result.

It's a good result when you take into consideration our performance. It was flat and didn't resemble anything close to what we've dished up in the opening few games of the season. In the end we've probably been lucky in getting the draw, so I'm happy we've managed to pick up a point even when we've maybe deserved to lose. That late goal almost feels like a winner, it's what football's all about.

On the late goal from Michael Draper.

It's a big moment for him and a big moment for us. It's a first goal for us after joining just prior to the season starting and it's rescued a point for us right at the end of the game. A big, towering header from a corner deep into stoppage time, brilliant stuff.

On going 25 league games unbeaten.

That's the most pleasing thing to come out of this result, pushing that unbeaten run to a quarter of a century of games. It's important to pick up points even when you're not at the races and we've done that today. Hopefully we can go away and figure out why we couldn't perform today, so it doesn't happen in the future. At home we need to be better, but I'm very proud of the unbeaten run.

On our promotion chances after the first month of the season.

We're in a very good spot, just behind Didcot in first place who have won their opening five games on the bounce. Obviously today is a massive disappointment, the result and the performance, but we also need to remember that this season is an extra ten games longer than last season, there's so many games left to play. We've a game in hand and if we win that we're only two points behind. If you'd offered me this start before the season kicked off I'd have 100% taken it. I've belief that we'll be there or thereabouts come the end of March and April, this playing group has a lot of potential and it's my job to make sure we kick on from here.

Club Statement: September Wrap Up

1st October 2065

By Chairperson Alex Howard

After winning promotion as undefeated champions last season the Reds are competing in the 11th level of English football for the first time since 2061. September was a fantastic month for the club as we kicked off the 2065/2066 season away to Birstall United. Kurtis Lancaster was the hero on the day as he netted a hat-trick that saw us record a deserved 4-3 win on the road.

We played our first home game a week later as we beat Holmer Green 3-1 at the Valley Stadium in front of 98 passionate Reds fans. The game was memorable as Szymon Stanczak scored his first goal for the club after graduating from our youth academy.

Our next game was a 5-1 dismantling of Cropredy away from home and Kurtis Lancaster was again on fire, the striker netting his second hat-trick in just our third outing of the new campaign.

We finished the month off with a hard fought 1-1 draw against Littleton at the Valley Stadium, with new signing Michael Draper scoring a header from a corner in the 92nd minute to push our unbeaten league run out to 25 games, a record that stretches back to the 5th of January 2064. A club record that Leo Nacho and his players can be truly proud of and one I hope continues for a little while longer.

2nd in Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Played 4 | Wins 3 | Drawn 1 | Lost 0

Goals For 13 | Goals Against 6 | Points 10

I'd like to place on record my thanks to Leo Nacho and his staff, the players who have been marvelous since the opening day and last but not least, our amazing fans and volunteers who are the heart and soul of this football club. We hope you've enjoyed reliving our memorable September and hope to see you at the Valley Stadium again soon.

Kind Regards

Alex Howard

Redditch United Chairperson

Unbeaten streak continues as the Reds and Highgate United finishes all square

3rd October 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from The Coppice

Highgate United 2-2 Redditch United

On the result.

Look it's a disappointing result today for us. We were the better side and deserve to win, but we didn't kill the game off and credit to them they've taken both their chances today and fought until the end. Probably two points dropped given the amount of possession we enjoyed and chances created, because on another day, we're winning that game by three, four, maybe five goals.

On Darren Saunders goal that gave us the lead.

It's not a surprise to me to see that goal from Darren. He's been improving at a rapid rate over the last few games and I'm excited about how far he can go. You've got to remember he's only 17 and that goal today was just fabulous. The link up play with Kurtis Lancaster before curling the ball around the defender, almost using him as a screen to block the goalkeepers view, was just brilliant.

On Fredrik Arvidsson scoring his 50th goal for the club.

It's a brilliant moment for him and I've been privileged to manage him the last three seasons. He's a real team leader, day in and day out on the training pitch and rarely goes missing on matchdays. The fact he's come through the youth academy at the club's just the icing on the cake, it's laid a blueprint for our younger players to look at and go that could be me one day.

On being the only unbeaten side left in the Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division.

It's a nice situation to be in after five games. I mean to go up a level after promotion and be in this position is pleasing. The aim this season is promotion, so the longer we can remain unbeaten the more likely we're to achieve that goal. It's also nice to have gained some ground on Didcot, even if it's only a single point as every point could matter come the end of the campaign.

Saunders on target again with goal that sparks come from behind win

10th October 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 2-1 Whitchurch United

On the result.

I'm relieved and happy with the result. The last thing we wanted today was another draw and you start to wonder after they snatch that goal before half time to take the lead completely against the run of play. Thankfully though we've got the job done in the second half.

On his message at half time.

I told the players it wasn't good enough and we needed more effort, more intensity. I think that message got across to them and credit to the boys we were level almost immediately after the break and ahead within 15 or so minutes after the break.

On Darren Saunders scoring for the second week in a row.

As I said last week he's developing at a rapid rate from game to game and we've seen two superb strikes in as many weeks now. Long may it continue, I'm very pleased with how he's taking his opportunity in the first team.

On the impact of the comeback win going forward.

These are the type of results you just have to get as the season progresses. You've got to dig in and find a way, that's what champions do and today we did just that. It wasn't pretty at the end as we held on when they pushed for a goal, but we fought for everything as a team and the comeback can give the players that little more belief that we can beat anyone at this level, even when coming from behind.

Arvidsson stars with hat-trick as the Reds keep pace with Didcot at the top

17th October 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from Potash Lane

Milton United 1-3 Redditch United

On the result.

It's a really good result for us today, away from home, difficult conditions and against a side that's been in decent form of late. We didn't have a lot of possession today, but we've created the better chances, given nothing away really at the back and we really put the game beyond them in that opening 15 minutes after the break.

On the hat-trick from Fredrik Arvidsson.

A great performance from him today and it's pleasing to see him leading from the front. We needed someone to step up today and Arvidsson really delivered with his first two goals. The penalty to complete the hat-trick was confidently taken and I'm delighted with the performance. That's 11 goal involvements in our opening 7 games, so he's been key to our early success this season.

On keeping pace with Didcot Town at the top.

It's been an interesting start to life at this level. They've been very good and almost perfect, so to be keeping pace with them is pleasing since we've not competed at this level for a few years as a club and it's my first time managing at this level. Hopefully we can continue to mount the pressure on them ahead of first meeting at their place in the middle of November. If things keep going the way they're currently going that'll be a huge blockbuster game. Ideally, we'd keep winning our games and they'd drop a few points before that game.

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division Table

1. Didcot Town - P8|W7|D0|L1|GD 13+| Pts 21

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2. REDDITCH UNITED - P7|W5|D2|L0|GD 10+| Pts 17

3. Littleton - P8|W4|D1|L3|GD 8+| Pts 13 

4. Holmer Green - P7|W4|D0|L3|GD 1+| Pts 12

5. Henley Town - P8|W3|D3|L2|GD 0| Pts 12

6. Milton United - P7|W4|D0|L3|GD -1| Pts 12

7. Whitchurch United - P8|W4|D0|L4|GD -3| Pts 12 

8. Highgate United - P8|W3|D1|L4|GD 4+| Pts 10

9. Brocton - P7|W3|D1|L3|GD 0| Pts 10

10. Alvechurch - P7|W2|D1|L4|GD -8| Pts 7

11. Leighton Town - P7|W2|D0|L5|GD -3| Pts 6

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12. Cropredy - P7|W1|D2|L4|GD -7| Pts 5

13. Birstall United - P7|W0|D1|L6|GD -14| Pts 1

Saunders at the double as the Reds make it three wins on the trot

24th October 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 4-1 Alvechurch

On the result.

Another step towards our goal of promotion, a pleasing performance and three points at home, I'm a happy manager this evening.

On the chaotic start to the game.

It was a wee bit mental to be honest, very end to end, but we've taken full advantage and won the game in that opening 15 minutes. To take an early lead was great, but very disappointing to almost instantly lose it. Thankfully the lads didn't drop their heads and within 10 minutes you're 3-1 up and from that point on we didn't look like conceding again.

On another important performance from academy graduate Darren Saunders.

Four goals in his last four games says it all really. Both of his goals today came at important stages of the game, his first to make it 3-1 after 14 minutes and it probably helped settle us down after the chaotic opening. The second goal with 25 minutes or so left just killed the game off. It's another top-drawer performance from the lad and he's in fine form right now.

CAREER IN FOCUS: Darren Saunders

• Born 16/12/2047 in Redditch
• Makes senior debut vs Inkberrow Reserves on 20/04/2064
• Scores first senior goal 6 days later as the Reds hammer Alvechurch Reserves 6-2
• Makes 11 appearances as the Reds go unbeaten winning the 2065 Coventry Alliance League Premier Division
• Starts all 8 games to date, scoring 5 goals and registering 5 assists as the Reds compete for promotion
• 21 career appearances, 10 starts and 11 from the bench
• 7 career goals
• 3 career assists

Injury time equaliser from Arvidsson makes it 30 unbeaten for Leo Nacho

31st October 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from Bell Close

Leighton Town 2-2 Redditch United

On the result.

A poor result in ways, but again we've managed to fight back and pick up a point. It's a poor result given where they're sitting in the table, but to fight back from 2-0 down to get a point on the road shows the fight we've got in the squad, so I'm pleased with that aspect.

On Will Hart scoring on his debut off the bench.

I was hoping he could give us a little something extra up front and he's taken his chance fantastically well. We've brought him in to provide competition up front and he's actually one of the quickest players I've ever seen. He showed every bit of pace to latch onto that ball in behind and the finish was very composed to get us back into a game when we looked well beaten.

On Fredrik Arvidsson becoming our all-time leading goalscorer with his late equaliser.

It's a brilliant moment for him and I couldn't be happier. He's been a sensational player for me and an unbelievable servant to the club. He does a lot of off the field work around the community and he's definitely a club legend. It was also special as it pushed our unbeaten run to 30 league games, which is phenomenal and hopefully we can keep that going a little longer.

On failing to win our game in hand.

It's not ideal, but I won't be getting to upset about it. It's a very long season and we're not even halfway through it at this stage. There's plenty of time to work on improving our performances and becoming more consistent, we're right in the mix for promotion and that's all I could have asked for after 9 games of the campaign.

Club Statement: October Wrap Up

1st November 2065

By Chairperson Alex Howard

October was another good month for the club as we maintained our unbeaten start to life in the Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division and stretched our club record unbeaten run to 30 league games. We played 5 matches during the month of October, winning 3 and drawing 2. We kicked the month off with a draw away to Highgate United, before beating Whitchurch United at the Valley Stadium.

A hat-trick from Fredrik Arvidsson then saw us beat Milton United at Potash Lane which was then followed by a resounding 4-1 victory over Alvechurch at home, a brace by academy graduate Darren Saunders a particular highlight in the latter game.

2nd in Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Played 9 | Wins 6 | Drawn 3 | Lost 0

Goals For 26 | Goals Against 13 | Points 21

We finished the month with a draw away to Leighton Town as we came back from 2-0 down, an injury time equaliser from Fredrik Arvidsson saving a point for the Reds and maintaining our unbeaten start to the campaign. It was also an important goal as it meant the Swede became the clubs all-time record goalscorer. On behalf of everyone at the club I'd like to congratulate Fredrik upon achieving something so special and hope for more goals over the course of this campaign.

We've a big month ahead as we play 4 games over the coming weeks, with 3 games being held at the Valley Stadium.

So, please if you can come out and get behind the team as we chase another promotion. We truly appreciate the support from the stands and I know you can be the difference in helping the players achieve great things this season.

Fixtures at the Valley Stadium in November

Saturday 7th vs Brocton

Saturday 21st vs Henley Town

Saturday 28th vs Birstall United

Tickets from just £3 and available at the stadium on matchday.

All games kicking off at 2pm.

Kind Regards

Alex Howard

Redditch United Chairperson

Redditch United go top with ruthless win as academy trio shine bright

7th November 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 3-0 Brocton

On the result.

It's a fantastic result and we're finally top of the table. It was a very good performance and we could have had a few more goals on another day, but I'm more than happy with a 3-0 win at home in tricky weather conditions.

On all of our goalscorers having come through our youth academy.

It's just a fantastic thing to see happening and there's a really good vibe around the club at the moment in regard to our young players. Szymon Stanczak scored a brilliant header at the back post, Fredrik scored another penalty, but the pick of the bunch was that thunderbolt from about 25 yards out from Ben Roberts. I don't think any goalkeeper in world football stops that to be honest.

On going top of the Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division.

It's a nice reward to have after 10 games and I'm immensely proud of the work my staff and players have done to achieve that. We're almost at the halfway mark of the season, so it's a nice thing to be able to look at the table and see you're top.

On facing Didcot Town next weekend in a top of the table clash.

A massive fixture, it's going to be a real challenge and I'm hoping they're a little rattled after their defeat today. Hopefully they'll be feeling the pressure after losing their spot at the top of the table and we need to be ready to put in a really good performance for 90 minutes.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Reds have faced Didcot Town in a competitive fixture on 4 separate occasions and have never lost.

24/10/2026 - Didcot Town 0-3 Redditch United

20/03/2027 - Redditch United 1-1 Didcot Town

23/09/2056 - Didcot Town 1-1 Redditch United

30/12/2056 - Redditch United 2-0 Didcot Town

The last time the sides met was 9 years ago in the very same league, the Reds winning 2-0 at the Valley Stadium.

Our game against Didcot Town will be played on Sunday 15th November with kick off scheduled for 3pm at Loop Meadow.

Great match reports, but I tell you what would make things better still….

League Tables!

Guess you have a patch that allows you to manage at such a lower level than Conference North/South? Out of interest what happened in the early seasons of this save before the 2060's kicked in?

Haha yeah, I'm playing around with it at the moment. I did type a league table out a few updates back.

I'm kind of writing the story from the point of view that it's being posted on the Redditch United club website.

Yeah it's the mod/patch by DanFM which went down to level 12.

It's a continuation of a save I was running for about 2 years with a manager called Garry Nacho. Resigned and started at the bottom playing as his son now. So, really fire away with any questions about any of the major clubs (or loaded leagues) and happy to answer as to how they've gone.

Six goals in top of the table clash as the Reds comeback to remain unbeaten

15th November 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from Loop Meadow

Didcot Town 3-3 Redditch United

On the result.

A fair result, I think on the balance of the game and looking at the chances both sides created, although I've no doubt, they'll be deeply disappointed to have not won the game being 3-1 up with 25 minutes to go. To come here, away from home and show the character to come back to get a point is massive. Not many teams will come here and comeback after going 3-1 behind at the break.

On what was said during the half time break.

Somethings are better said in private and they'll remain private, but given the difference in performance in the second half, if you've been in a changing room at any level of football you'd be able to guess what was said with a degree of confidence.

On the reaction to Ben Roberts equaliser.

It's a huge moment, it could be a pivotal moment in the promotion battle. We should take a massive amount of momentum from that and it could knock the stuffing out of them too. The 90 or so minute trip back home will be a lot more enjoyable after that goal.

On the mental boost to staying top and ahead of Didcot Town.

It's probably something you can't really measure at this point in time, but over the next 5 to 6 weeks you might see its value. Hopefully as I mentioned before, we'll take momentum from it and they'll feel the pressure or lose focus and drop points they otherwise wouldn't.

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division Table

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P11|W7|D4|L0|GD 16+| Pts 25

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2. Didcot Town - P11|W8|D1|L2|GD 13+| Pts 25

3. Henley Town - P11|W5|D4|L2|GD 5+| Pts 19

4. Whitchurch United - P12|W5|D2|L5|GD -2| Pts 17

5. Littleton - P11|W4|D4|L3|GD 8+| Pts 16

6. Holmer Green - P11|W5|D1|L5|GD -2| Pts 16

7. Milton United - P11|W5|D1|L5|GD -4| Pts 16

8. Highgate United - P11|W4|D3|L4|GD 5+| Pts 15

9. Brocton - P11|W4|D2|L5|GD -2| Pts 14

10. Alvechurch - P11|W4|D2|L5|GD -6| Pts 14

11. Leighton Town - P11|W3|D1|L7|GD -6| Pts 10

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12. Cropredy - P11|W2|D4|L5|GD -7| Pts 10

13. Birstall United - P11|W1|D1|L9|GD -18| Pts 4

The Reds cruise to victory as unbeaten start to season hits 12 games

21st November 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 2-0 Henley Town

On the result.

A clean sheet and three points, I'll take that every day of the week. Pleased with the performance, we've still work to do, don't get me wrong, but that was a tricky game today against a side who are the next best in the division after us and Didcot Town, so I'm really glad we've been able to see them off and pick up the win. We've got to take confidence from our last two games as we head into the second half of the campaign. If we can do that and keep up this momentum there's no reason we can't secure another promotion.

On Scott Haverty scoring his first goal for the club.

A fantastic moment for him and it came at a crucial time in the game. We started really well, created chances and were definitely on top in that opening 10 minutes, so for him to pop up with that goal was a big moment for us. It set the game up in a way that meant they had to come out and we were able to control it for large parts and thankfully get the second goal.

On remaining unbeaten in the first half of the season.

Another great achievement from this group of players. I'm not entirely sure, but that's I think 33 games unbeaten now, which is just a fantastic achievement and long may it continue. It's been the foundation in which we've been able to win the league last season and compete for promotion so far this campaign. It's a record I'm very proud of and hope the fans are too.

On the promotion battle with Didcot Town.

It's as close as it gets really. They've been fantastic and probably feel they should have beaten us, but credit to them every single time they've had a setback they've just bounced back and kept winning. I think whoever gains promotion will have fully deserved it and I wouldn't be surprised if whoever that is gets close to or accumulates more than 60 points.

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division Table

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P12|W8|D4|L0|GD 18+| Pts 28

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2. Didcot Town - P12|W9|D1|L2|GD 16+| Pts 28

3. Littleton - P12|W5|D4|L3|GD 12+| Pts 19

4. Henley Town - P12|W5|D4|L3|GD 3+| Pts 19

5. Highgate United - P12|W5|D3|L4|GD 6+| Pts 18

6. Holmer Green - P12|W5|D2|L5|GD -2| Pts 17

7. Whitchurch United - P12|W5|D1|L5|GD -2| Pts 17

8. Milton United - P12|W5|D1|L6|GD -5| Pts 16

9. Brocton - P12|W4|D3|L5|GD -2| Pts 15

10. Alvechurch - P12|W4|D2|L6|GD -10| Pts 14

11. Cropredy - P12|W3|D4|L5|GD -1| Pts 13

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12. Leighton Town - P12|W3|D1|L8|GD -12| Pts 10

13. Birstall United - P12|W1|D1|L10|GD -21| Pts 4

Double from Ben Roberts sees off brave Birstall United at the Valley Stadium

28th November 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 2-1 Birstall United

On the result.

I'll gladly take the win and move onto the next game. They've given us two really tough games this season and whilst they're bottom of the league, they're a real plucky team to play against. I'm glad we've been able to see this game through and pick up the three points.

On the man of the match performance from Ben Roberts.

It's a superb performance today and actually just sums up the month he's had. He's been in great form in November, I mean he's scored 4 goals in 4 games and 3 of them have been crucial goals. The 2 today obviously are the difference, but he also got the equaliser against Didcot Town to make it 3-3. He's got a phenomenal engine on him, an elegant first touch and he's becoming a key first team player.

On whether the result could have been more comfortable.

It could have been and probably should have been, but at the end of the day it's a game I'm just happy we've won. As I said a few minutes ago, they're a really plucky team to play against and I don't think their current standing in the table does them justice on the two games we've played them. Maybe if the penalty from Fredrik goes in with 25 minutes to go at 3-1 down, they'd have pushed forward a little more and we'd have been able to take advantage of that, but all in all I'll the 2-1 win.

On the smallest of margins at the top of the Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division table.

It's actually a bit crazy to be honest. We've almost scored the same number of goals, I think we've scored one more than them and we've conceded the exact same. We're literally on top by a single goal after 13 games and it just seems that any slip up from either of us could be very costly even with 11 games to play, I mean that's how consistent and good Didcot Town and we've been.

Club Statement: November Wrap Up

1st December 2065

By Chairperson Alex Howard

13 games down, 11 to go and the season's quickly approaching the business end. November was another brilliant month for the club as we maintained our unbeaten start to the campaign and extended our unbeaten league run to 34 games. We scored 10 goals over those 4 games, conceding just 4 and climbed to the top of the Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division table.

We kick started the month with a comfortable 3-0 win over Brocton at home and a pleasing fact from that game was that all of our goals were scored by players who had come through the academy at the club.

Our second game was a blockbuster top of the table clash against Didcot Town away and even though we trailed 3-1 going into the final half hour we managed to pull off a remarkable comeback, the game finishing 3-3 and our unbeaten run remaining intact.

1st in Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Played 13 | Wins 9 | Drawn 4 | Lost 0

Goals For 36 | Goals Against 17 | Points 31

We then had back-to-back home games, first against Henley Town and then Birstall United. We won those games 2-0 and 2-1 respectively, the club entering December with a slender lead at the top of the table. The Reds and promotion rivals Didcot Town separated by a single goal. I'd like to place on record my thanks to the 272 fans who turned out over our 3 home games in November at the Valley Stadium. The weather at times has been unforgiving, but you turned up in numbers regardless, it's much appreciated.

Kind Regards

Alex Howard

Redditch United Chairperson

Brandon McKnight saves penalty as the Reds make it 14 unbeaten this season

12th December 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from Airedale Park

Holmer Green 2-2 Redditch United

On the result.

A good first half, a bad second half and we probably need to be happy with picking up the point. On another day they win that and I'm glad we've been able to keep our unbeaten run going for another game as it's a big mental boost to remain unbeaten.

On the two penalties awarded today.

No complaints really, I think the referee has got those decisions correct and if it'd been down the other end I'd be livid if they'd not given those penalties. Thankfully for us they've failed to score one of them and we've come away with a valuable point.

On Brendan McKnight saving the second penalty.

It's a huge moment, not just today, but potentially in the season. With how tight things are at the moment at the top you never know how valuable this point may turn out to be. A big moment from Brandon and I'm delighted he's been able to keep it out.

Mortimer the hero as the Reds take full advantage of rivals loss to go top

19th December 2065

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 2-1 Cropredy

On the result.

Wow what a feeling, what an ending, unbelievable. That's what football can produce, at any level really, but relieved to get the win and go back to the top of the table. I've heard that Didcot Town lost heavily at home to Highgate United, so we've taken full advantage. 

On the late winner from Emini Mortimer.

It's his first goal for the club and what a great time to get it. We tell kids when they're young to follow in at the back post, but you see so many players not gamble, not follow in, but credit to Emini there he's gambled and he's got his reward. He's remain composed taken a touch and rolled it into an empty net after the keeper has come for a cross and missed it.

On Didcot Town losing at home to Highgate United.

A potential turning point in the race at the top, especially since we've managed to win late here. The difference from today to our last game is big, they were top, but now they're not and we've got a game in hand too, so almost like an insurance policy.

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division Table

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P15|W10|D5|L0|GD 20+| Pts 35

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2. Didcot Town - P16|W11|D2|L3|GD 17+| Pts 35

3. Henley Town - P16|W9|D4|L3|GD 9+| Pts 31

4. Highgate United - P16|W8|D3|L5|GD 12+| Pts 27

5. Milton United - P15|W7|D2|L6|GD 0| Pts 23

6. Whitchurch United - P16|W6|D5|L5|GD -1| Pts 23

7. Littleton - P16|W5|D6|L5|GD 8+| Pts 21

8. Holmer Green - P16|W5|D4|L7|GD -5| Pts 19

9. Alvechurch - P15|W5|D3|L7|GD -11| Pts 18

10. Cropredy - P16|W4|D4|L8|GD -3| Pts 16

11. Brocton - P16|W4|D4|L8|GD -8| Pts 16

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12. Leighton Town - P16|W4|D2|L10|GD -14| Pts 10

13. Birstall United - P15|W1|D2|L12|GD -24| Pts 5

Club Statement: December Wrap Up

24th December 2065

By Chairperson Alex Howard

An early Christmas Eve December wrap up for you to enjoy.

I wanted to send this message out to our fans before we all take a few days to relax a little and be more present with our loved ones over Christmas. The month saw the Reds continue our unbeaten start to the campaign and stretched our unbeaten club record to 36 games.

We started the month with a tough 2-2 draw away to Holmer Green in a game that saw Brandon McKnight pull off a superb penalty save to ensure our unbeaten run continued. A real game of two halves as per Leo Nachos post-match comments, but the end result was a well-earned point on the road in difficult conditions at Airedale Park.

1st in Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Played 15 | Wins 10 | Drawn 5 | Lost 0

Goals For 40 | Goals Against 20| Points 35

Our second game was a tough game against Cropredy. It was 1-1 going into the last 5 minutes and the result could go either way, step up Emini Mortimer. A well composed and calm finish saw him net his first goal for the club and what a time to get it. Unknown to him or us at the time Didcot Town had just been well beaten 4-1 by Highgate United and we went top of the table with a game in hand.

From everyone at the club we wish you a very happy and safe Christmas and New Years with all your loved ones and as always, we hope to see you soon back at the Valley Stadium to cheer the Reds on as we make our final push for another promotion.

Kind Regards

Alex Howard

Redditch United Chairperson

The Reds start the New Year with impressive 3-1 win over Littleton

2nd January 2066

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from the Five Acres

Littleton 1-3 Redditch United

On the result.

A great way to begin the New Year and very happy with the performance. It was a tough battle in the opening half hour, but two really brilliant goals, moments of magic by Shaun Rogers and Kurtis Lancaster in a space of 4 minutes changed the game.

On the emergence of Shaun Rogers on the right wing.

It's been really pleasing to see him come into the club and fit right in. He's scored 2 and setup 2 goals in the just 3 appearances so far, it's a phenomenal start. He's a great lad to have around the club, always smiling and positive, just a really good lad.

On moving 3 points clear at the top of Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division table.

It's a really big moment for us and having the game in hand up our sleeve too is a great bonus. It's time now for us to really knuckle down, work hard and make sure we consistently turn up for 90 minutes in games. Promotion is inching ever closer and I'll just be reminding the players that all the hard work so far is close to being worth it. It's 2 defeats in a row for Didcot Town now and it looks like they've lost some belief, so if we keep doing our job I'm not sure they'll catch us. We're in control of our own destiny.

On rumours linking him with a move away from the club.

There's been a few clubs approach who have recently sacked managers and whilst they're 3 or 4 levels above where we're at right now, neither of the jobs were the right fit for me. I'm very happy here, I feel like we're building something and want to see how far this group can go. I'm not on a wage here, but I'm very lucky I am who I am, my parents set me up for life with their careers, for which I'm very grateful and I'm not really motivated by more money. Imagine seeing Redditch United in the Football League or even greater, the Premier League and UEFA Champions League, I mean it's a huge dream and so far away in reality but imagine that happening and you're a massive part of that journey, that's the type of challenge and opportunity that motivates me.

THE RACE FOR PROMOTION & FORM IN FOCUS - LAST 5 GAMES

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P16|GD 22+| Pts 38 | W W D W W

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2. Didcot Town - P17|GD 15+| Pts 35 | W W D L L

3. Henley Town - P17|GD 6+| Pts 31 | W W W W L 

4. Highgate United - P17|GD 15+| Pts 30 | W L W W W

Kurtis Lancaster header enough for the Reds to narrowly win at the Valley Stadium

16th January 2066

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 1-0 Highgate United

On the result.

It's a big result for us and a good performance against a side that's shown recently they're a match for anybody. They turned up today and it really was a case of us taking the single clear-cut chance we created and them not, on another day we don't win, so very pleasing that today was our day and it's another three valuable points. At this stage of the season I'll happily take a few more narrow wins.

On the goal that won the game.

It's a real moment out of nothing and what a ball from Fredrik Arvidsson that's created the opportunity. When he gets that ball inside our own half out on the right side you can see they're not worried in midfield or at the back, but the vision to spot the run by Kurtis, which by the way was a brilliant run, is brilliant and the finish is pure class. The keeper rushing out like that, do you try control a bouncing ball and go past him, do you try hit it first time or do you chip him with a header, the latter of course being what Kurtis Lancaster did today. An amazing goal and amazing link up play from the two up front, a brilliant goal to win a tight game.

On the recent form of Kurtis Lancaster.

That's 3 goals in his last 3 games, which is a great run of recent form. 11 goals in 17 games this campaign and he's been really crucial to our success, his partnership with Fredrik Arvidsson up front has been brilliant to watch and they're driving each other on every day. They're essentially competing with one another to be the clubs leading goalscorer this season, but always ready to set the other up if they're in a better spot to score, it's one of those striking partnerships that just organically happens and they've scored 21 goals of our 44 goals, so almost half which is incredible and without them we wouldn't be on the verge of another promotion.

Kurtis Lancaster double sends the Reds six points clear despite Horgan sending off

30th January 2066

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from Longmeadow

Whitchurch United 1-2 Redditch United

On the result.

That was a really brave performance from us today. It goes without saying that the sending off changed the game and we had to soak up a lot of pressure. Then they got the penalty which Brandon saved but scored just seconds later and you worry if it's a sign of things to come, but we've dug in and got the winner. It's another big step towards promotion.

On the brace from Kurtis Lancaster.

It's a big individual performance for us and I'm delighted, Kurtis has really been in superb form the last few weeks and he's having the best season of his career. Hopefully he can continue scoring goals for a few more weeks and we can secure promotion. 

On the sending off.

That's not something I want to talk about all that much, but in few words I don't think there's any intent from Andy Horgan to cause any injury and the referee got the decision right. We'll deal with the suspension that comes and have a chat with Andy privately.

On moving six points clear with a game in hand.

Really a massive moment in the season and mentally it's a superb place to be. To be 6 points clear with a game in hand is the stuff of dreams with only a half dozen games left to play. There's also the form side of things, we're unbeaten all season and they've lost 3 of their last 5. We're within touching distance of promotion and we just need to continue working hard.

THE RACE FOR PROMOTION & FORM IN FOCUS - LAST 5 GAMES

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P18|GD 24+| Pts 44 | D W W W W

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2. Didcot Town - P19|GD 14+| Pts 38 | D L L W L

3. Henley Town - P19|GD 5+| Pts 34 | W W L W W 

4. Highgate United - P19|GD 13+| Pts 30 | W W W L L

Club Statement: January Wrap Up

1st February 2066

By Chairperson Alex Howard

A New Year and new possibilities lay on the horizon.

The club had 3 games in January and it turned out to be a magnificent month for the Reds. We won all of our games and with results going our way we've now opened up a 6 point lead at the top of the Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division table.

This lead is significant when you factor in the game in hand we've got and our 39 game unbeaten run.

1st in Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Played 18 | Wins 13 | Drawn 5 | Lost 0

Goals For 46 | Goals Against 22| Points 44

We started the New Year with a 3-1 win over Littleton followed by a narrow 1-0 win at the Valley Stadium against Highgate United as Kurtis Lancaster scored the only goal of the game. We then bravely fought to a 2-1 victory away to Whitchurch United as we held on to win despite having a man sent off.

With the season quickly drawing to a close we've got 2 games this month, 2 games in March and 2 games in April. We hope to see you at our remaining home games at the Valley Stadium as we push for promotion.

Kind Regards

Alex Howard

Redditch United Chairperson

Saunders brace sinks Milton United as the Reds make it 40 games unbeaten

13th February 2066

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 3-0 Milton United

On the result.

Delighted with the result today. We got a few goals, kept a clean sheet and we're another game closer to promotion. We really dominated from start to finish today and the response after half time was great, very professional. 0-0 at half time, but we went on to win 3-0, so I'm very pleased. The players responded to the team talk and did exactly what I wanted after the break, so again, I'm very pleased.

On the man of the match performance from Shaun Rogers.

I think I'd said something similar a few weeks back, but he's really impressed since joining and made that right wing spot his own. Three assists today and he was very deserving of winning the man of the match award. He's contributed 8 goal involvements in his 6 games since joining, which is a really rich vein of form and he's been a great fit around the squad too.

On the push for promotion with just five games to play.

We're the masters of our own destiny at this stage. Obviously, we've the 6 point lead at the top of the table, but having the game in hand too is also a big boost. There's also the fact we've remained unbeaten to date in the league this season and have avoided defeat in our last 40 outings. That builds a lot of momentum and the self-belief in this squad is very high, I'd be very surprised if we don't go on to secure promotion over the next few weeks and I'm really confident we've got what it takes.

The Reds record narrow win over Alvechurch to almost guarantee promotion

28th February 2066

By the Press Team

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division

Full Time from Damson Park

Alvechurch 1-2 Redditch United

On the result.

It's another win and another performance to be proud of. We were the better side out there today and it probably should have been more comfortable, but a win is win at the end of the day and it's a massive victory for us.

On the performance.

Brave and courageous. We continued to play football on our terms, even when they'd got a goal back and the pressure mounted as we entered the last few minutes. I'm so proud of this group of players and we've almost got our reward for a brilliant season.

On the message before kickoff knowing Didcot Town had lost yesterday.

I just told the lads to go out there and play our way, if you're going to lose do it playing our way and remember we've got a safety net, we're in control and we're in the driving seat. I also reminded them that pressure is something they've thrived under this year, so why would this game and result be any different. It seems to have worked as that performance was very good.

On having almost secured promotion.

Delighted, absolutely delighted. I mean excluding an absolute miracle we're going to win the league and secure a second consecutive promotion. We're 9 points clear, with a 17-goal difference advantage and they've only got 3 games remaining. We'd have to lose 4 games on the bounce and they'd need to win all of their remaining games whilst turning that goal difference around. It's worth noting it's 41 games unbeaten now, so it would take an unimaginable turnaround for us to be denied a second consecutive promotion.

Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division Table

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P20|W15|D5|L0|GD 28+| Pts 50

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2. Didcot Town - P21|W13|D2|L6|GD 11+| Pts 41

3. Henley Town - P21|W11|D5|L5|GD 6+| Pts 38

4. Highgate United - P21|W11|D3|L7|GD 17+| Pts 36

5. Whitchurch United - P21|W10|D5|L6|GD 5+| Pts 35

6. Littleton - P20|W7|D7|L6|GD 9+| Pts 28

7. Alvechurch - P20|W8|D4|L8|GD -7| Pts 28

8. Milton United - P20|W8|D2|L10|GD -5| Pts 26

9. Cropredy - P20|W6|D5|L9|GD -1| Pts 23

10. Brocton - P20|W6|D5|L9|GD -4| Pts 23

11. Holmer Green - P20|W5|D4|L11|GD -12| Pts 19

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12. Leighton Town - P20|W4|D3|L13|GD -17| Pts 15

13. Birstall United - P20|W2|D2|L16|GD -30| Pts 8