thatirishguykev - Comments

The Reds make history as they qualify for the first round of Emirates FA Cup

11th October 2067

By the Press Team

The Emirates FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round Replay

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 1-0 Foxhole Stars

On the result.

A very close game and if I'm being honest, we could have been beaten today, on another day those saves from Brandon don't go onto the post or crossbar, they go in. I'll take the bit of luck and I'm thrilled we're into the hat for the draw. I'll sit down with a beer, some pizza and watch it, it'll be an enjoyable experience to see who we're drawn against, I just hope it's at home for our supporters.

On the 6 changes made to the starting side today.

A few were made to freshen the side up and a few others were made because of injuries or knocks. You can't just play the same side each week and expect to have the legs to play good football for 90 minutes. We needed to rotate the squad today and thankfully we've been able to win the game. It just shows that we've got some good options that we can chose from when in need of freshening things up.

On becoming the first manager to lead Redditch United into the FA Cup in our 176 year existence.

It hasn't quite sunk in, but what an achievement. Not so much for me, but the players, unbelievable. It's not like we'd an easy draw in terms of teams we played or being at home every single tie. We've been absolutely tremendous and I'm delighted. Hopefully we can draw a bigger side and who knows maybe just maybe we can see the magic of the FA Cup at work again.

On the celebrations at full time.

It just shows you what it means for the staff, players and fans. Everyone was absolutely thrilled we'd managed to win the game and advance to the FA Cup first round, what a feeling and again what an achievement by the boys.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. G.Roberts, 4. Rose, 5. Ferguson, 3. Kerr, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Siebenhandl

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. Haverty, 15. A.Roberts, 16. Griffith, 17. Bindley, 18. Ollis, 19. McFarlane

Redditch United Bookings

B.Roberts

Redditch United Goalscorers

Saunders (39)

Siebenhandl the super sub as The Reds equalise late to force Emirates FA Cup replay

8th October 2067

By the Press Team

The Emirates FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round

Full Time from Goverseth Park

Foxhole Stars 2-2 Redditch United

On the result.

We probably should have won it if I'm being honest, we were the better side and had the better chances, but we failed to take them. It also didn't help that they got a goal, sat back and just soaked up the pressure. When they got that second on the hour mark you're thinking it's going to be that type of game, one of those days and it might have been for another side, but credit to the boys I made a quadruple substitution right after they'd made it 2-0 and we've replied almost right away. It took a little longer to get the equaliser but we got it in the end and we'll head into the replay hopeful we can beat them in front of our home fans at the Valley Stadium.

On yet another late comeback in the FA Cup.

I'd rather we didn't need to pull off such heroics, but at the end of the day it's also very pleasing to know the boys never ever give up on themselves. They keep fighting until the very end and it's not a coincidence now at this stage that we've been able to repeat these late comebacks. It shows the mentality and spirit in that dressing room, I'm very proud of them and their attitude when behind in games.

On Christoph Siebenhandl coming off the bench again to score.

I think it took him 4 minutes in our last game to score coming off the bench and he's done it in half the time here today. It was an absolute gamble bringing him on with about 3 minutes left on the clock, but full credit to him as he's gone out there and got that all important goal. If he does that a few more times he'll quickly become our very own Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Ollis, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. Kerr, 15. Ferguson, 16. Bindley, 17. McFarlane, 18. Saunders, 19. Siebenhandl

Redditch United Bookings

Joseph

Redditch United Goalscorers

Saunders (64), Siebenhandl (89)

The Reds return to league action with emphatic win at the Valley Stadium

1st October 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Premier Division 

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 4-1 North Leigh

On the result.

A very pleasing result when you consider how close the game was. I think the 4-1 scoreline was a bit harsh on them to be honest, we deserved to win, but I think 4-1 flattered us a bit and made it seem like we absolutely hammered them. I think the difference today was taking our chances, I think we took every good chance that we created and that was the difference between the sides today.

On the man of the match performance from Chris McFarlane.

Probably another reason why we won today was the performance from Chris. Scored a goal, made a goal, actually probably made two, but they probably won't give him the assist for the Ben Roberts goal as a defender got a slight touch on the cross before Ben volleyed it home. Chris was definitely on a different level out there and drove the team to victory with his performance.

On returning to league action after 4 cup games on the bounce.

It's nice to get back to league duties, there's not as much stress I feel, like it's not a do or die affair like a cup game, so it's different. I was pleased with how the players adapted and how we were professional during this game. We took our chances and were always in control once we'd established that 3-0 lead before half time.

On starting the season with 9 wins from 9 games.

To be honest it's been an amazing start to the season in the league and even in the cups. I don't think I could have asked for more if I'm being honest and whilst it does add some pressure after winning all your games it's good. I feel like it's really motivated the players to keep going and I think they've taken a lot of belief and confidence from the opening few months of the campaign.

On Christoph Siebenhandl making his debut and scoring.

It was great to be able to bring him on for his professional debut and was just real Roy of the Rovers stuff to see him score within a few minutes of coming on. To be honest we were surprised to hear he'd become available and that Barnet weren't going to keep him on, so we were delighted to have brought him in. He's a young raw 18-year-old, but he's got a lot of potential.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. G.Roberts, 4. Ferguson, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Kerr, 11. McFarlane, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Bindley, 7. Ollis, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. Haverty, 15. Joseph, 16. Horgan, 17. Rogers, 18. Saunders, 19. Siebenhandl

Redditch United Bookings

None

Redditch United Goalscorers

Ferguson (30), McFarlane (37), B.Roberts (43), Siebenhandl (62)

The Reds equalise late in injury time and win on penalties in Emirates FA cup shock

27th September 2067

By the Press Team

The Emirates FA Cup Third Qualifying Round Replay

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 1-1 Hambleden

Redditch United advance winning 5-4 on penalties

On the result.

Huge result and I'm so delighted with the performance. We expected a response from them after the first game, but we matched them, we were almost at our very best today too. The late goal to send it to penalties just shows the level of character in this side, I'm so proud. That's twice in a few days now that we've scored very late to avoid defeat and that's very hard to coach, the players generally either have that about them or they don't. This group seems special in that regard, they just keep going until the very end.

On the injury time equaliser.

Absolute chaos, what a moment for the fans, the players and the staff. We all lost our minds a little bit, which I understand, it shows the passion around the club. From there we knew we'd be going to penalties and you hope that late equaliser has taken the fight out of them and not zapped all of our energy. Thankfully we've got the job done and it's onto the fourth qualifying round now.

On the Brandon McKnight penalty save.

It's a massive moment in the penalty shootout and just a fantastic save to be honest. Usually when it comes to penalties we see keepers keep out a weak penalty or a badly placed one, but that penalty was low, hard and fairly well placed, it's just a sensational bit of goalkeeping from Brandon and it set it up for Darren Saunders to score the winning spot kick.

On the draw for The Emirates FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round.

It's been a kinder draw in comparison to the last few rounds. A team that's playing at our level in the football pyramid but make no mistake they'll be well up for it. The game has a huge reward at stake and they'll be at home. They'll be highly motivated and it's going to be a very big game for both clubs, hopefully we'll be able to go there and perform at our very best.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. McFarlane, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Ollis, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. Kerr, 15. Ferguson, 16. Bindley, 17. Rogers, 18. Saunders, 19. Siebenhandl

Redditch United Bookings

Pockney, Haverty

Redditch United Goalscorers

Bittner (94)

Redditch United Penalties

Bittner, Lancaster, Rogers, Bindley, Saunders

Kurtis Lancaster scores late equaliser to keep Emirates FA Cup dream alive

24th September 2067

By the Press Team

The Emirates FA Cup Third Qualifying Round

Full Time from The Dene

Hambleden 2-2 Redditch United

On the result.

We deserved something from the game today and I'm glad we've at least got that late goal to force a replay. We had the better chances today and created more too, but it looked like they might beat us as the game ticked on. Thankfully we've had that euphoric moment at the end and you can see what it meant to the players to keep the FA Cup dream alive.

On the impact that late goal may have in the replay.

Look it could prove to be a huge moment or it might mean nothing. The players were brilliant today, we were better than a team that's playing two levels above us and I think if we can recreate that performance at home in a few days time, we'll beat them.

On the set piece that secured the draw.

We do try practice these things during the time between game to game and I'm delighted to see it pay off. Everybody at that stage of the game is expecting Ben Roberts to lump the free kick into the box, but he's passed off to the left to Jamie Kerr, who has done superbly well to pick out Kurtis, who turns in one motion while controlling the ball and on his weaker left foot smashed the ball into the far top corner, it was an amazing goal and hopefully we can take the belief from getting this result into the replay at the Valley Stadium.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. Kerr, 15. Ferguson, 16. Bindley, 17. McFarlane, 18. Ollis, 19. Siebenhandl

Redditch United Bookings

Lancaster

Redditch United Goalscorers

Rogerson (5 own goal), Lancaster (89)

Grantley Bittner goal on stroke of half time enough to see off Coventrians

17th September 2067

By the Press Team

Isuzu FA Vase Second Qualifying Round

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 1-0 Coventrians

On the result.

Probably not a fair result on the balance of play if I'm being completely honest. We weren't better than them out there today, but we did battle and fight well today, so I think that's maybe helped get us over the line to advance into the draw for the next round.

On a third narrow win in the last 10 days.

Sometimes you're going to have it go all your way and that's what happened when we won 6-0. Now I think teams are very cautious and they are setting up to try combat the good things we do. The weather has also been rotten, so pitches aren't exactly the best surfaces at this point in time, but either way we've been a little off. Thankfully we've still been able to win games, so that's very pleasing.

On another clean sheet for Brandon McKnight.

I'm glad you've asked about that because I feel we do so much talking about the lads scoring the goals down the other end we forget about the defence and Brandon in goal. He's been superb for me ever since he arrived at the club and his recent form has been stellar. We've the best defence in the league at the moment and he's been a pivotal part of that.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. Rose, 15. Griffith, 16. Bindley, 17. Ollis

Redditch United Bookings

Rogers, Joseph, Horgan

Redditch United Goalscorers

Bittner (41)

Magic of the FA Cup appears as Shaun Rogers goal sinks Leek Town

10th September 2067

By the Press Team

The Emirates FA Cup Second Qualifying Round

Full Time from Harrison Park

Leek Town 0-1 Redditch United

On the result.

It's an absolutely brilliant result. Absolutely delighted for the lads, they really worked so hard out there today and that showing was full of bravery and courage. We knew we'd have our backs against the wall at times coming here today and the boys all stood up to be counted today. Very proud of the performance and the result is huge, we weren't at our footballing best, but we fought for everything and got the rub of the green. We showed we can mix it with a side that's 2 divisions higher than us in the football pyramid.

On the winner from Shaun Rogers.

It was a great goal, a fabulous cross from Ben Roberts and a brave header from Shaun to stick his head in where it hurts. He's got his reward and it was almost the perfect stage of the game to score. It kind of rattled them and they were almost frozen thinking they'd plenty of time left to respond, but very quickly there's only 10 or 15 minutes to go and we never looked like conceding late.

On being just 2 wins away from FA Cup history.

It would be a massive achievement for the lads and the club. We've obviously never made it into the FA Cup competition proper, I think the best we ever did was get to the last qualifying round. I'd be lying if I said we'd not thought about it or spoken about it behind closed doors, but at the end of the day we just need to keep working hard, keep plugging away and take it game by game. I'm sure the draw will once again pit us against someone in a higher league or away from home, it's been very unkind to date.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. Kerr, 15. Ferguson, 16. Bindley, 17. McFarlane, 18. Ollis, 19. Arvidsson

Redditch United Bookings

Rogers, Joseph, B.Roberts

Redditch United Goalscorers

Rogers (56)

The Reds make it 8 wins from 8 to remain top of the table

7th September 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Premier Division 

Full Time from the Studley Sports & Social Club

Feckenham 1-2 Redditch United

On the result.

It's a good result for us on the road. The weather made it very difficult out there today, just rained all day and the pitch was worse for wear. In the end we showed enough to get the win and on another day we'd have been settling for a point. It's not quite 6-0 like last time out, but it's a valuable 3 points and I'm happy with the fight shown to get over the line in tough conditions.

On beginning the season with 8 wins from 8 games.

If you told me this was how the season would start I'd have laughed at you and then called the police to have you checked on. It's been a superb start to the campaign and I'm just delighted for the lads. I see how hard the boys have been working each day and it's just great to see them get the rewards for the hard work they're putting in.

On the impact that being professional and training every day has had.

Well, I think we're seeing it play out in front of our eyes each week. Some of the games have been won late, some have been from behind and then some have just been very closely fought. Some of these boys have never been involved at a professional club or academy before, so it's a huge change training every day. I think it's a huge advantage for us and credit has to go to the owner Jamie Sanderson who has put money into upgrading facilities but is also paying the wages every week and the amount for this level is quite substantial.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Ferguson, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Kerr, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Ollis, 9. Arvidsson, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. G.Roberts, 15. Gascoigne, 16. Bindley, 17. McFarlane, 18. Saunders, 19. Lancaster

Redditch United Bookings

Horgan, Pockney

Redditch United Goalscorers

Ollis (22), Bittner (47)

Hellenic Football League Premier Division Table

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P8|W8|D0|L0|GD 14+| Pts 24

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2. Mayfield - P8|W7|D0|L1|GD 13+| Pts 21

3. Stonehouse Town - P8|W5|D2|L1|GD 9+| Pts 17

4. Brimscombe & Thrupp - P8|W5|D2|L1|GD 9+| Pts 17

5. Steventon - P8|W4|D2|L2|GD -1| Pts 14

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Moreton Rangers smashed for SIX at the Valley Stadium as The Reds run rampant

3rd September 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Premier Division 

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 6-0 Moreton Rangers

On the result.

Five star, ten out of ten, absolutely stupendous. You'll do better to see better from any side in the country this weekend, we were absolutely ruthless in the first half and I couldn't be happier after that result.

On braces for Shaun Rogers and Grantley Bittner.

They're both big game players, no doubt about it. They're consistently stepping up and delivering consistent performances since they joined the club. It's great to see such good players taking their games to another level after promotion. That's 39 league goals in 40 league appearances for Grantley, which is just an insane record. He's been such a key player for us since his arrival.

On concerns over discipline after a second red card of the season.

It's not a great look to have another player sent off, but sometimes these things happen. Scott knows it was dumb to kick the ball away when we're 6-0 up and he's on a yellow card. He gave the referee a decision to make and he's made it by the letter of the law, so it is what it is you know. We'll have a word with the lads in a meeting and hopefully we can improve our discipline a little bit going forward.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Ferguson, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Ollis, 9. Arvidsson, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. Kerr, 15. Gascoigne, 16. Bindley, 17. McFarlane, 18. Saunders, 19. Lancaster

Redditch United Bookings

Ferguson, Haverty, Rogers

Redditch United Red Cards

Haverty (51)

Redditch United Goalscorers

Arvidsson (16), Ferguson (19), Rogers (28, 34), Bittner (29, 46),

Emirates FA Cup run continues as The Reds take full advantage of home replay

30th August 2067

By the Press Team

The Emirates FA Cup First Qualifying Round Replay

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 3-1 South Park

On the result.

I'm over the moon with that result. After the first game I knew we needed to be better and believe me I'm very relieved that the real Redditch United turned up today. We blew them away in the first half and were good value for the win.

On the man of the match performance from Shaune Rogers.

It was a big first half from everyone, but Shaun was absolutely head and shoulders above everyone out there today. He took both goals really well, both headers that no goalkeeper is going to save. He hadn't scored since the opening day, so he was suffering a bit of drought, but he's a big game player and he's really turned up for us today.

On advancing to the next round of the FA Cup.

It's a great feeling to keep the dream of qualifying for the tournament proper alive. We've never played in the first round of the FA Cup and I've discussed it with the players, like wouldn't it be an absolute whirlwind to be the first group to do that for this club and you never know what'll happen either. The magic of the FA Cup is still alive, giant killings can happen, so why not for us.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Ferguson, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Bindley, 7. Ollis, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. Kerr, 15. Joseph, 16. Horgan, 17. McFarlane, 18. Saunders, 19. Arvidsson

Redditch United Bookings

Haverty, Rogers, Bindley, Kerr

Redditch United Goalscorers

Lancaster (8), Rogers (27, 40)

Emirates FA Cup replay needed after stalemate between South Park and The Reds

27th August 2067

By the Press Team

The Emirates FA Cup First Qualifying Round 

Full Time from King George's Field

South Park 1-1 Redditch United

On the result.

It's a good result for us today. Still in the FA Cup and have a replay to hopefully advance a bit further. We weren't at the races today and they'll be disappointed they couldn't find that second goal, I think if they had done so we'd have had no answer. We'll need to improve in the replay to beat them, but I know we can perform a lot better than the performance we produced today.

On the performance from 17-year-old Sam Ferguson.

He was superb today, absolutely superb. To come into the side because Elvis Joseph is suspended after the red card last time out and produce that performance is a testament to just how good he already is. It's great he scored for us, he's a big lad at 6'3 so he's a danger from corners, but his work at the other end to keep us in the tie was unbelievable. He must have blocked a half dozen shots today.

On whether we've the advantage in the replay to be played at the Valley Stadium.

I'm not sure, I mean our home form would suggest we're almost impossible to beat at the Valley Stadium, but we were lucky today. They'll be confident they'll get us next time, so we'll need to be a lot better. It's probably just about advantage us with the game to be played at home, but we'll need to turn up and perform at a much higher standard.

On managing his 100th game as Redditch United manager.

I'm happy we didn't lose today. It would have been a real sucker punch to have lost my first ever game in charge and then lose the 100th too. Look I'm delighted to be here, it's been a fantastic few seasons at the club and I'm hopeful of many more.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Ferguson, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. Kerr, 15. Gascoigne, 16. Bindley, 17. McFarlane, 18. Ollis, 19. Arvidsson

Redditch United Bookings

Haverty, Pockney

Redditch United Goalscorers

Ferguson (33)

Grantley Bittner injury time winner sees The Reds make it 6 wins from 6 games

24th August 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Premier Division 

Full Time from the Rolls-Royce Leisure Association

Derby Singh Brothers 2-3 Redditch United

On the result.

To win the game after going behind, then going ahead only to end up at 2-2 and then in the final 10 minutes be a man down, I'm delighted with the win. We were slightly better than them today, but once we'd gone a man down going into the final few minutes you feared the worst might happen. In the end though we've pulled off a brilliant win with that injury time winner.

On the reaction to another late winner.

I can't say enough about the character in this squad. They just turn up week after week, game after game and no matter what happens they just keep fighting for one another. Today was no different and we've scored another important late goal. It's probably testament to the hard work we do to get the players really fit and keep them fit, it allows us to keep going to the very end.

On the sending off for Elvis Joseph.

It was a bad tackle, so I can't complain about the red card. It's a poor decision from Elvis at a time in the game that could have really cost us today, but thankfully we've got over the line and scored the winner. There wasn't any intent to hurt anyone, just a tackle gone wrong, but I'll have a chat and hopefully he can learn from it. He's only 19, so he's still a very young player, but he needs to learn to control his aggression, so he doesn't miss games due to suspension. I'd assume he'll probably miss a few games over that sending off today, which isn't ideal as he's a key part of our defence. Despite the sending off he's got my full backing and support.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. McFarlane, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Ollis, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. G.Roberts, 15. Ferguson, 16. Bindley, 17. Rogers, 18. Saunders, 19. Arvidsson

Redditch United Bookings

Haverty, A.Roberts, Bittner, Lancaster, Bindley

Redditch United Red Cards

Joseph (84)

Redditch United Goalscorers

Bittner (26 pen, 91), McFarlane (38)

Chris McFarlane the hero as The Reds score late for second straight game

20th August 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Premier Division 

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 3-2 Bewdley Town

On the result.

A big sense of relief to get the result, which to be clear, I do believe we deserved, but we got out of jail at the end there.

On losing a 2-0 lead.

We'll go away and look at that as it's obviously not ideal. We'd done all the hard work in getting into that position and then kind of switched off. If we want to win another promotion we can't afford to do that. As I said before we got out of jail today.

On the late winner from Chris McFarlane.

It's his first goal for the club and it's a great moment for the lad. In fairness he's done exceptionally well to react to the loose ball after the keeper has turned his original shot onto the post, I mean nobody else reacted apart from Chris and I'm so glad he got his reward for staying alert. It was a very tidy and neat header back across the keeper after the rebound had come his way.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Bindley, 7. Ollis, 9. Arvidsson, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. G.Roberts, 15. Ferguson, 16. Horgan, 17. McFarlane, 18. Saunders, 19. Lancaster

Redditch United Bookings

Bindley

Redditch United Goalscorers

Ollis (2), B.Roberts (64), McFarlane (85)

Injury time drama as late goal sends The Reds marching on in Emirates FA Cup

17th August 2067

By the Press Team

The Emirates FA Cup Preliminary Round 

Full Time from the Harrow Weald Recreation Ground

Kodak 0-1 Redditch United

On the result.

A very close game and one I'm delighted to have won. Sometimes you just need to stay in the game as long as you can and then when the chance comes, take it and today we've done exactly that. Either side could have won that game, it could have easily also finished as a draw and we'd be playing a replay, but thankfully Caine has grabbed that very late winner.

On winning the game deep into injury time.

It's an absolutely insane finish to a game. They hit the crossbar and then we break away to score that winner. It's a marvelous bit of dribbling and finish by Caine to score the goal, it was a piece of magic to win a very tight affair. Onto the next round.

On what was said at half time.

Half time seems like a long time ago now, but I basically just said keep it tight, don't make a mistake and give away a cheap goal. I was fairly straightforward that I thought we'd get an opportunity and it's turned out to be the case today.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. Ferguson, 3. G.Roberts, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. Haverty, 15. A.Roberts, 16. Bindley, 17. McFarlane, 18. Ollis, 19. Arvidsson

Redditch United Bookings

Joseph, Ferguson, G.Roberts

Redditch United Goalscorers

Ollis (96)

The Reds go top as Darren Saunders goal completes come from behind win

13th August 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Premier Division

Full Time from Weston Park

Wootton Blue Cross 1-2 Redditch United

On the result.

Absolutely buzzing, what a result. So proud of the lads, probably our best win of the season so far and to do it after going behind so early is another added bonus. I'm delighted we've again won on the road and I hear we're now top of the table too.

On the impact that coming from behind to win might have on morale.

It's massive, really massive. It just gives the players the confidence and belief that no matter what happens or how big the mountain is they just keep on getting the job done. It shows the character in that dressing room. They just keep producing the goods when the odds are stacked against them and I'm delighted to be the gaffer of this group of players.

On going top of the table.

Very happy about going top. Anytime you go top it's a good feeling and we want to stay there, but it'll get harder as the games go on, teams now know what we're about at this level and they'll be better prepared. We'll double down and just continue doing what we've been doing for the years I've been here, work hard in training during the week, control what we can control, do the little things that others might not be willing to do and focus game to game. If we do all that consistently I see no reason why we can't continue to challenge at the top half of the table. There's a long way to go, but we've started really well and hopefully we'll continue in that manner.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. Ollis, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Arvidsson, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. G.Roberts, 15. Ferguson, 16. Bindley, 17. Rogers, 18. McFarlane, 19. Lancaster

Redditch United Bookings

Pockney

Redditch United Goalscorers

Bittner (12), Saunders (39)

Bittner scores brace as The Reds hold out to deny Hinton comeback

10th August 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Premier Division

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 3-2 Hinton

On the result.

Well first of all what a game. That was absolutely unbelievable, especially the last 20 or so minutes, the crowd certainly got their monies worth with 4 goals in the last part of the match. I'm obviously pleased we've come out the right side of that result and managed to get another win. I think it was a fairly close game, but thankfully Brandon has made some big saves in goal and we've taken our chances.

On the form of Grantley Bittner.

I mean whatever I'll say to you now I've probably said before about the bloke. He's started this season in the same manner he performed last season and I'm just delighted he's at our club. He seems to be really enjoying his football and when a player is doing that you'll likely get good performances on the regular. He's such a crucial player for this side and hopefully he has another huge season.

On starting the campaign with 3 wins from 3 league games.

I couldn't have asked for anymore from the players. Starting the season like this is a great foundation for the campaign and hopefully if we just keep working hard during the week in training we'll continue to reap the rewards on matchday.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. Ollis, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Arvidsson, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. G.Roberts, 15. Ferguson, 16. Griffith, 17. Rogers, 18. Jones, 19. Lancaster

Redditch United Bookings

None

Redditch United Goalscorers

Arvidsson (31), Bittner (74, 76)

Bittner on target again as The Reds record narrow league win on the road

6th August 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Premier Division

Full Time from the Cheltenham Civil Service Sports Ground

Cheltenham Civil Service 0-1 Redditch United

On the result.

I'm delighted with the result, a win away from home is always very pleasing and I'm happy. We probably rode our luck towards the end and invited more pressure than I'd have liked, but we've battled hard and kept that all important clean sheet.

On the injury to Shaun Rogers.

Just a bit of bruising, so a few days of rest, rehabilitation and he'll be good to go. Nothing serious thankfully.

On the emergence of Caine Ollis.

It's happened a few times in the few years I've been here, someone gets injured, someone gets a chance and they take it. Caine has emerged from being I guess a bench player to really pushing for a starting spot every week. Another good performance and he's made the goal today, it was almost impossible for Grantley to miss that opportunity given how good the assist was.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Ollis, 9. Arvidsson, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. G.Roberts, 15. Ferguson, 16. Griffith, 17. Saunders, 18. Jones, 19. Lancaster

Redditch United Bookings

None

Redditch United Goalscorers

Bittner (62)

Goals from Bittner and Saunders send The Reds into next round of Emirates FA Cup

2nd August 2067

By the Press Team

The Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round Replay

Full Time from Star Meadow

Holland & Blair 0-2 Redditch United

On the result.

We were much improved in comparison to the first meeting and deserved to win today. I'm very pleased with how well we've controlled the game in the latter stages and keeping the clean is a good sign. The late goal from Darren Saunders was also nice to see, not only because he's coming back from a few niggly injuries, but it came at a time when it killed the game off.

On winning the replay away from home.

I'm delighted winning the replay away from home and I'm hoping the players take a lot of belief and confidence from the win too. Home advantage is huge at any level of football and you're always just a little on edge after you miss the chance to win at home in the first meeting. So very pleasing to win it away from home in a replay.

On the mood in the dressing room after the win.

The boys seem in good spirits. We've started the season well and put in 2 really good performances in the opening 3 games, so hopefully we can kick on and keep building over the next few weeks. It would seem we're in a good spot.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Ollis, 9. Arvidsson, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. G.Roberts, 15. Ferguson, 16. Griffith, 17. Saunders, 18. Jones, 19. Lancaster

Redditch United Bookings

Joseph

Redditch United Goalscorers

Bittner (35), Saunders (94)

Replay needed after Caine Ollis comes off the bench and scores to save The Reds

30th July 2067

By the Press Team

The Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 1-1 Holland & Blair

On the result.

I think it's a fair result, it really was a toss of a coin and a draw is probably fair to both sides if we're being honest. I think at times they were on top and then sometimes we wrestled back control, but over the 90 minutes it was pretty even.

On the substitutes having an instant impact.

It's what you hope will happen as a manager and it's often the case it doesn't, but today it worked like something out of a Hollywood movie. Bring Kurtis and Caine off the bench and just seconds later they're combining to make it 1-1. Very happy with their impacts!

On needing to play a replay in 3 days instead of having a result today.

It's not ideal, but it's so early in the season an extra game might be good in terms of building match fitness and sharpness. Maybe in the years to come the FA will move towards us just playing penalties, but that's not the case now and we'll go play the replay at their place with the belief we can beat them. I think if we improve slightly on today's performance, we're a good chance of progressing.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Ferguson, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Haverty, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Campbell, 9. Arvidsson, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. G.Roberts, 15. Gascoigne, 16. Griffith, 17. Ollis, 18. Jones, 19. Lancaster

Redditch United Bookings

Horgan

Redditch United Goalscorers

Ollis (69)

The Reds deserving winners in season opener at the Valley Stadium

23rd July 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Premier Division

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 2-0 English Bicknor

On the result.

It's always a relief to start the season with a win and our performance today was also pretty good. You're always hopeful of getting off to a good start and credit to the lads they did that today. Hopefully the first of many wins at home this season.

On the reason why some first team players were absent today.

Suspensions carrying over from last season for Elvis Joseph, Scott Haverty and Darren Saunders. As for Kurtis Lancaster, he's been out for a few weeks with an ankle injury picked up during pre-season, but we're hopeful he'll be back next week.

On the importance of going ahead so early.

I don't think you can really downplay how big it can be to go ahead and then also doing it early in the game. It certainly helped us settle into the game today and we were good enough to then go double the lead shortly after. I thought we handled being 2-0 up very well and didn't look like losing our focus, we were very professional today and the early goals were pivotal in the result.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Ferguson, 5. A.Roberts, 3. G.Roberts, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Campbell, 9. Arvidsson,

10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Wium, 14. Hughes, 15. Gascoigne, 16. Griffith, 17. Ollis, 18. Jones, 19. Saleh

Redditch United Bookings

Horgan

Redditch United Goalscorers

Ferguson (14), Rogers (19)

Elvis Joseph screamer ensures The Reds make it 44 games unbeaten at home

23rd April 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Division One

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 1-1 Wolves Casuals

On the result.

Not our best performance today, but thankfully we've done enough to keep our unbeaten home run intact. We lacked a bit of energy and they were better than us, so we've probably been lucky to get a point today. A flat end to what's been a superb season, but it's been a bruising and taxing 36 game season, so I can understand some players just running out of steam at this stage.

On remaining unbeaten at home this season.

It's a marvelous foundation to have built this seasons and previous seasons success on. We've actually not lost here at the Valley Stadium since my very first game in charge, so it's been a really long time. Our home form is very important to us and I feel like that unbeaten run is a huge psychological boost as teams know it won't be easy to come here and get a result.

On the goal from Elvis Joseph.

You don't see many goals like that from defenders, but my oh my what a strike from Elvis. When you think of defenders scoring from corners you think of them scoring a towering header, not a 20-yard strike that flies into the top corner.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Leach, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Alexander, 14. Haverty, 15. Vernhardsson, 16. Molloy, 17. Ollis, 18. Jones, 19. Fagan

Redditch United Bookings

Saunders, B.Roberts, Haverty, Joseph

Redditch United Goalscorers

Joseph (73)

Hellenic Football League Division One Table

1. (C) REDDITCH UNITED - P36|W22|D9|L5|GD 40+| Pts 75

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2. MK Dons U20s - P36|W22|D7|L7|GD 34+| Pts 73 *

3. Bewdley Town - P36|W20|D9|L7|GD 21+| Pts 69

4. Bridgnorth Spartans - P36|W21|D3|L12|GD 23+| Pts 66

5. Chalford - P36|W17|D8|L11|GD 4+| Pts 59

6. Redhouse - P36|W16|D8|L12|GD 15+| Pts 56

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* MK Dons U20s cannot gain promotion

Kurtis Lancaster the hero as The Reds seal third consecutive promotion

16th April 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Division One

Full Time from the Southbrook Recreation Ground

Redhouse 0-1 Redditch United

On the result.

We deserved to win today and I'm absolutely over the moon. These players deserve the success today after the performances this season and I'm just so pleased they've got over the line. We rode our luck a little bit in the first half but were certainly the better side in the second half and really looked very comfortable once we'd taken the lead. It's been another fantastic campaign for the club.

On the message at the break after watching Redhouse hit the woodwork twice.

I asked the lads for a little more at half time. As I said I thought we'd rode our luck a little bit, but we were due a little bit of luck after the bad luck in recent weeks and thankfully today we've got the goal early in the second half and kept our composure to win the game and with it the league title. With this playing group my team talks before, during and after games are fairly straightforward, they're a playing group that gets it and in that regard I'm a very lucky manager as it doesn't take much to get a reaction.

On the emotions when Kurtis Lancaster put us ahead.

I was trying to keep calm on the sideline with so long to go, but it's very hard to not get carried away in the moment. On the inside I was going absolutely insane and I'm just so happy that Kurtis and the other lads have got the job done.

On securing a third consecutive league title and automatic promotion.

It's truly a sensational achievement and something that I'm very grateful to be a part of. We might not have gone unbeaten this season like the previous two promotions, but I think we've been superb for most of the campaign and fully deserve to be crowned champions. At the start of the season we were hopeful of challenging for a playoff place, so to win the league and secure automatic promotion is just beyond our wildest expectations. I can't wait for our final game next weekend at home to celebrate with the supporters.

Redditch United XI

1. Alexander, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Leach, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Yeboah, 14. Haverty, 15. Molloy, 16. Jones, 17. Arvidsson, 18. Ollis, 19. Fagan

Redditch United Bookings

B.Roberts, Joseph

Redditch United Goalscorers

Lancaster (53)

Hellenic Football League Division One Table

1. (C) REDDITCH UNITED - P35|W22|D8|L5|GD 40+| Pts 74

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2. MK Dons U20s - P35|W21|D7|L7|GD 33+| Pts 70 *

3. Bewdley Town - P35|W20|D9|L6|GD 22+| Pts 69

4. Bridgnorth Spartans - P35|W21|D3|L11|GD 24+| Pts 66

5. Chalford - P35|W16|D8|L11|GD 2+| Pts 56

6. Redhouse - P35|W16|D7|L12|GD 15+| Pts 55

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* MK Dons U20s cannot gain promotion

The Reds count the cost as they blow comfortable 2-0 lead in injury time

9th April 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Division One

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 2-2 Northwood

On the result.

For 90 minutes we're by far the better side and then we've switched off. The first goal just gave them that motivation to push forward in the search for the second goal and they got a chance and took it. I think those efforts they've had in injury time were the only shots on target, so it's disappointing that we've failed to see this one out given we were 2-0 up and coasting heading into the final few minutes.

On the mental impact conceding twice in stoppage time may have in the title race.

It's hard to say, but hopefully the boys just let it go. It's happened and we can't change it, so let it go, that'll be my message over the next few days. We've got a tough game away against Redhouse up next and then play the final game of the season at home against Wolves Casuals who are fighting relegation. With our superior goal difference we've basically two cup finals, win one and we've won the title.

On what the message was at full time.

I just told the lads to let it go, keep their heads up. Every side will have tough results and disappointing moments throughout a league campaign, unfortunately for us we've had a few recently as the pressure mounts with the title and promotion race. At the end of the day we're still in the driving seat, so let's not let a bad few minutes here ruin what's been a fantastic season to date.

Redditch United XI

1. Alexander, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Leach, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Ollis, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Yeboah, 14. Aitkenhead, 15. Molloy, 16. Jones, 17. Arvidsson, 18. Saunders, 19. Fagan

Redditch United Bookings

Leach, Horgan

Redditch United Goalscorers

Bittner (23), B.Roberts (26)

Hellenic Football League Division One Table

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P34|W21|D8|L5|GD 39+| Pts 71

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2. Bewdley Town - P34|W20|D8|L6|GD 22+| Pts 68

3. MK Dons U20s - P34|W20|D7|L7|GD 32+| Pts 67 *

4. Bridgnorth Spartans - P34|W21|D3|L10|GD 25+| Pts 66

5. Redhouse - P34|W16|D7|L11|GD 16+| Pts 55

6. Chalford - P34|W15|D8|L11|GD 1+| Pts 53

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* MK Dons U20s cannot gain promotion

Second half fightback falls just short as poor start costs The Reds

2nd April 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Division One

Full Time from the Fairfield Sports Hub

MK Dons Under 20s 4-3 Redditch United

On the result.

A game of two halves and for us it was just too big a deficit to overturn. I'm proud of the players for fighting back and showing that heart, but unfortunately for us the start has left us with too much to do in the end. We were 4-1 down before we woke up and actually played our football, our way, so no real complaints today, we left ourselves too much to overcome in the end.

On the comeback that almost was.

It would have been an unbelievable turnaround, but we just fell short. As I said just before I'm proud of the players as they showed some serious heart and almost pulled off a miraculous comeback, but we just couldn't get that equaliser. In the end it was a tight game, but they probably deserved the win given how well they'd started and we weren't at the races for a good chunk of that game.

On the performance from Caine Ollis.

He almost single handedly changed that game today, his introduction changed everything. Set up a goal and scored a goal too, just a pity we couldn't complete the comeback. I think he'll be starting our next game after that substitute appearance.

On our recent struggles on the road.

It's been a bit tougher for us in recent weeks, a draw, a win and 3 defeats in our last 5 away games. We weren't at our best today, but some of those other games we definitely deserved better results, the Bewdley Town result as an example is perfect, we win that game 99 times out of 100 based on the performance. I'm not too concerned, we've not been that bad on the road.

Redditch United XI

1. Alexander, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. Leach, 3. G.Roberts, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Haverty, 14. A.Roberts, 15. Jones, 16. Arvidsson, 17. Ollis, 18. Lyons, 19. Fagan

Redditch United Bookings

None

Redditch United Goalscorers

Bittner (19), B.Roberts (59), Ollis (71)

Hellenic Football League Division One Table

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P33|W21|D7|L5|GD 39+| Pts 70

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2. Bewdley Town - P33|W20|D7|L6|GD 22+| Pts 67

3. MK Dons U20s - P33|W20|D6|L7|GD 32+| Pts 66 *

4. Bridgnorth Spartans - P33|W21|D3|L9|GD 26+| Pts 66

5. Redhouse - P33|W15|D7|L11|GD 12+| Pts 52

6. Chalford - P33|W14|D8|L11|GD -2| Pts 50

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* MK Dons U20s cannot gain promotion

Bittner and Lancaster goals ensure The Reds take advantage of rivals loss

26th March 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Division One

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 2-0 Chalford

On the result.

A win, a good performance, a clean sheet and our promotion rivals slipping up, it's pretty much a perfect day for us.

On the impact the early red card had on the game.

It's played a pretty big role in the outcome, I mean you could only see us winning the game when it happened. To be honest I didn't see the incident myself, I looked away to grab a bottle of water and you just don't expect to see a red card after 45 seconds. A few of the boys on the bench said it was a definite red card for an elbow, but I didn't see it myself.

On the gap at the top with just 4 games remaining.

The gap is pretty big at this stage of the campaign and our destiny is in our own hands, something that most managers will tell you they'd prefer. What we do will dictate how the season finishes, we're not depending on anybody else for a favour. We're in the driving seat and it's my job to keep the players grounded throughout the week and make sure we're ready to go come kick off.

Redditch United XI

1. Alexander, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Leach, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Yeboah, 14. G.Roberts, 15. Jones, 16. Arvidsson, 17. Ollis, 18. Lyons, 19. Fagan

Redditch United Bookings

Bittner, Fagan, B.Roberts, Jones, Ollis

Redditch United Goalscorers

Bittner (10), Lancaster (28)

Hellenic Football League Division One Table

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P32|W21|D7|L4|GD 40+| Pts 70

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2. Bridgnorth Spartans - P33|W21|D3|L9|GD 26+| Pts 66

3. Bewdley Town - P32|W19|D7|L6|GD 20+| Pts 64

4. MK Dons U20s - P32|W19|D6|L7|GD 31+| Pts 63 *

5. Redhouse - P32|W15|D7|L10|GD 13+| Pts 52

6. Tenbury United - P32|W15|D5|L12|GD -7| Pts 50

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* MK Dons U20s cannot gain promotion

The Reds miss chance to extend lead at the top in shock smash and grab defeat

19th March 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Division One

Full Time from Ribbesford Meadows

Bewdley Town 1-0 Redditch United

On the result.

It's a real punch in the guts and I don't think I'm being dramatic saying that. How we've not left here with the win and a 4-point lead at the top of the table I'll never know, but it is what it is and we'll need to move on quickly.

On failing to make our dominant performance count.

It's just really disappointing to have had so many chances and so much possession to lose it in injury time. We've blown a golden opportunity to extend the lead at the top and hopefully this won't prove too costly over the next few weeks.

On the reaction needed after this setback.

We just need to put it behind us and move on as soon as possible. We should have had three, maybe four goals today and they've scored with their only chance of the game after 91 minutes. It's definitely a setback to have not won a game we dominated and definitely a setback we failed to take advantage of one of our games in hand, but onto the next game now.

Redditch United XI

1. Alexander, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Leach, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Yeboah, 14. G.Roberts, 15. Jones, 16. Arvidsson, 17. Ollis, 18. Lyons, 19. Fagan

Redditch United Bookings

Leach

Redditch United Goalscorers

None

Hellenic Football League Division One Table

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P31|W20|D7|L4|GD 38+| Pts 67

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2. Bridgnorth Spartans - P32|W21|D3|L8|GD 28+| Pts 66

3. MK Dons U20s - P31|W19|D5|L7|GD 31+| Pts 62 *

4. Bewdley Town - P31|W18|D7|L6|GD 19+| Pts 61

5. Redhouse - P32|W15|D7|L10|GD 13+| Pts 52

6. Nationwide - P31|W15|D3|L13|GD 5+| Pts 48

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* MK Dons U20s cannot gain promotion

Shaun Rogers the hero off the bench as The Reds record vital win in title race

12th March 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Division One

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 1-0 Sporting Headington Academicals

On the result.

A really important result for us today. I think the performance was just about good enough and it could have gone either way, so I'm relieved we've got the win today. I think getting the goal just after the half time break was a big moment and I'm pleased we could keep a clean sheet even with the disruption of Brandon going off injured in the first half hour.

On the only goal of the game from Shaun Rogers.

It's never easy coming off the bench and we needed some energy after a flat first half performance. He's gambled at the back post and got his reward for doing so. It's a huge goal for us and it's proved enough to win the game.

On going 40 games unbeaten at the Valley Stadium.

It's a marvelous achievement and one I wasn't really aware of or tracking, but what a boost to know we've been unbeaten at home for so long. It's not surprising to me either as our fans are superb and make it a difficult place to come.

On the injury to goalkeeper Brandon McKnight.

It's a bad injury and it looks like he'll be out for the rest of the season. I'm no doctor, but it's pretty clear it's a broken arm of some sort, so yeah, bad news for us going into the final 6 games, but an opportunity now for someone else to step up.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Leach, 11. Arvidsson, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Alexander, 14. G.Roberts, 15. Jones, 16. Rogers, 17. Ollis, 18. Lyons, 19. Fagan

Redditch United Bookings

Bittner, Horgan

Redditch United Goalscorers

Rogers (53)

Hellenic Football League Division One Table

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P30|W20|D7|L3|GD 39+| Pts 67

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2. Bridgnorth Spartans - P32|W21|D3|L8|GD 28+| Pts 66

3. MK Dons U20s - P30|W18|D5|L7|GD 29+| Pts 59 *

4. Bewdley Town - P30|W17|D7|L6|GD 18+| Pts 58

5. Redhouse - P32|W15|D7|L10|GD 13+| Pts 52

6. Chalford - P31|W13|D8|L10|GD -1| Pts 47

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* MK Dons U20s cannot gain promotion

The Reds go top with impressive win as Bridgnorth Spartans beaten at home

5th March 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Division One

Full Time from the Guardian Warehousing Arena

Dudley Town 1-4 Redditch United

On the result.

It's a tricky fixture when you're at the top end of the table and they're at the other end. We're both desperate for points for very different reasons and as we seen two weeks ago it can easily go either way. Thankfully today we've performed very well and put the game beyond them in that opening half hour or so. Credit to the boys today, we really managed that game after the break in a professional manner.

On Bridgnorth Spartans losing at home.

It's a massive boost for us and at this stage of the season there's less and less runway for error. We're always going into games with our main focus on doing our job, but it's very pleasing when we do that and results go our way elsewhere.

On Ashley Roberts netting his first goal for the club.

A fantastic moment for the lad and his family. I'm absolutely delighted with his emergence as a key player this season and he's been very solid. At just 18 he's become a really important player for us, whether that's him playing at centre back or in the midfield and that's for all to see given he's played in every game for us this season, 29 appearances so far and counting.

On going top of the table with 2 games in hand.

At this stage of the season I'd rather be sitting top than chasing and having the games in hand is an added bonus. It's up to us now to make sure we see this through and ensure we get a third successive promotion.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Leach, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Alexander, 14. G.Roberts, 15. Jones, 16. Lyons, 17. Arvidsson, 18. Ollis, 19. Fagan

Redditch United Bookings

Fagan

Redditch United Goalscorers

Bittner (17), A.Roberts (31), B.Roberts (32), Ollis (64)

Hellenic Football League Division One Table

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P29|W19|D7|L3|GD 38+| Pts 64

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2. Bridgnorth Spartans - P31|W20|D3|L8|GD 26+| Pts 63

3. MK Dons U20s - P29|W17|D5|L7|GD 28+| Pts 56 *

4. Bewdley Town - P29|W16|D7|L6|GD 16+| Pts 55

5. Redhouse - P31|W15|D7|L9|GD 14+| Pts 52

6. Chalford - P30|W13|D8|L9|GD 1+| Pts 47

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* MK Dons U20s cannot gain promotion

The Reds bounce back from defeat with emphatic attacking performance

26th February 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Division One

Full Time from the Valley Stadium

Redditch United 7-2 Tenbury United

On the result.

It's a great performance and a superb result. It's nice to see the players just bounce back from the setback last week and it's unbelievable how well we performed in front of goal today. The game was over after 17 minutes and it's nice to see that the players didn't let up, we just kept going and to put 7 past that side today is very impressive.

On the importance of bouncing back with a win.

Any side that can bounce back after a disappointing result is going to have a high chance of having a good season. We've done it every time this season when we've had one and we can hopefully kick on now until the end of the season. We're getting really close to the business end of things and every result is crucial to the promotion push, so hopefully this result is a big boost for the players confidence.

On the hat-trick from Kurtis Lancaster that took just 4 minutes.

That's really killed the game off and it was a big passage in the game for us. Scoring a hat-trick is always big news, but to score a hat-trick in just 4 minutes is pretty unique. There aren't many players who can boast about doing that and I'm delighted for Kurtis.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. A.Roberts, 3. Leach, 11. Rogers, 6. B.Roberts, 8. Horgan, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Alexander, 14. G.Roberts, 15. Jones, 16. Lyons, 17. Arvidsson, 18. Ollis, 19. Fagan

Redditch United Bookings

B.Roberts

Redditch United Goalscorers

Saunders (9), Lancaster (14, 15, 20), Rogers (37), Fagan (74, 80)

Hellenic Football League Division One Table

1. Bridgnorth Spartans - P30|W20|D3|L7|GD 27+| Pts 63

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2. REDDITCH UNITED - P28|W18|D7|L3|GD 35+| Pts 61

3. MK Dons U20s - P28|W16|D5|L7|GD 25+| Pts 53 *

4. Bewdley Town - P28|W15|D7|L6|GD 14+| Pts 52

5. Redhouse - P30|W14|D7|L9|GD 12+| Pts 49

6. Chalford - P29|W13|D8|L8|GD 3+| Pts 47

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* MK Dons U20s cannot gain promotion

The Reds suffer shock defeat on the road as title race takes another turn

19th February 2067

By the Press Team

Hellenic Football League Division One

Full Time from Tucker Park

Faringdon Town 2-1 Redditch United

On the result.

It's a poor result and disappointing that it's happened the following game after the Bridgnorth Spartans win. It kind of feels like a missed opportunity and one step forward, one step back, but we just need to accept we were beat today. We started poorly and conceded twice in just a few minutes and despite getting one back we just never really got going.

On the automatic promotion battle with Bridgnorth Spartans.

Definitely getting a lot more tense now isn't it, I mean we beat them last week and felt good going into the game today, but that defeat and their win means that gap is back to just the single point. We've got a slender lead and a game in hand, but it looks like it's going to go down to the wire over the next 9 remaining games and we can't afford to be off the pace.

On the message to the players at full time.

I don't think there's much need to go nuclear on the playing group. It's a bad result, we know that and the playing group know today wasn't good enough. The message was just for the players to let this go, don't dwell on it too much and just make sure we bounce back next weekend. Bad results happen to the very best of teams, it's how you bounce back that defines you.

Redditch United XI

1. McKnight, 2. Pockney, 4. Joseph, 5. Aitkenhead, 3. G.Roberts, 11. Ollis, 6. B.Roberts, 8. A.Roberts, 7. Saunders, 9. Lancaster, 10. Bittner

Redditch United Substitutes

12. Alexander, 14. Vernhardsson, 15. Molloy, 16. Jones, 17. Arvidsson, 18. Rogers, 19. Fagan

Redditch United Bookings

A.Roberts, G.Roberts, Pockney

Redditch United Goalscorers

Lancaster (29)

Hellenic Football League Division One Table

1. REDDITCH UNITED - P27|W17|D7|L3|GD 30+| Pts 58

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2. Bridgnorth Spartans - P28|W18|D3|L7|GD 25+| Pts 57

3. MK Dons U20s - P28|W16|D5|L7|GD 25+| Pts 53 *

4. Redhouse - P28|W14|D7|L7|GD 14+| Pts 49

5. Bewdley Town - P27|W14|D7|L6|GD 13+| Pts 49

6. Nationwide - P27|W13|D3|L11|GD 5+| Pts 42

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* MK Dons U20s cannot gain promotion