Address

Marcliff

Unit A1-A2

The Badminton Centre

Station Road

Yate, Bristol

BS37 5HT

Opening Hours

Monday - Friday

8.30am - 5.00pm

Saturday

8.30am - 12.30pm

Sunday - Closed

A warm welcome to Arnall Drive to the players, spectators, and management team of this afternoon’s visitors Broadwell Amateurs.

Last Saturday saw us draw 1-1 at home to Wick, it was a game where we played well for large periods but just couldn't find that 2nd goal, in part due to an inspired performance from their goalkeeper and also some wasteful finishing by ourselves.

Please come and search me out or contact me through our website if you can help with sponsoring a match, player, or pitch side advertising board, or would just like to help and get involved with the running of the club in whatever area interests you. We are always looking for more help with match days, pitch works, fundraising or just being part of an active committee.

Finally remember ‘We win together, lose together but more importantly we stick together’.

Andrew Myland
Chairman

#UTHR

Good afternoon, everyone,

I would like to extend a warm welcome to the players, management, and supporters of Broadwell to Arnall Drive for today's County League fixture.

After the disappointment at Quedgeley, I asked the players for a positive response, and to their credit they delivered exactly that against Wick last week.

We played on the front foot, controlled large periods of the game, and created numerous chances. When we took the lead, the game was unfolding as planned. However, a combination of an outstanding performance from the opposition goalkeeper and some wasteful finishing meant we were unable to score the goals needed to put the match beyond reach.

When you fail to capitalise on your opportunities, you inevitably give the opposition a chance, and that proved to be the case. We now look ahead to this week's fixture determined to build on the positives from our performance and, hopefully, add the clinical finishing touch that our play deserved.

In terms of team news, full-back Aidan

Hall returns. However, Nick Jones is

unavailable.

Thank you, as always, for your

continued support.

2027

Broadwell Football Club was formed in 1905 by the local working men and originally played at “The Purples” Coalway. In the 1930s Broadwell moved to play at “Wynols Hill” where they stayed until 1947, when they moved again to what is now known as “The Hawthorns”. This was done with the help of the two late trustees, Mr Bert Ruck, and Mr Frank Haviland.

Over the years various facilities were used such as “the Rising Sun “, church hall, and the local working men’s club. However, in 1963 with the help of the chairperson, Mr Rube Kibble, Secretary William Smith and committee men Mr Cyril Hamblin, a new changing quarter was officially opened by referee Mr Tom Finney.

These new changing quarters were totally funded by the club’s own money after refusal of a grant by both the G.F.A. and F.A.

In 1982, a bar facility was opened by the late president Mr. Hubert Smith and seven years later a new bar, skittles alley, kitchen, and referees changing room were added by a dedicated bunch of Broadwell supporters and sponsors.

The football social club has a strong golf society which plays twice a year open to all club members young or old regardless of ability.

The football club currently run three senior sides, which play on a Saturday. Broadwell won the G.F.A. Senior Amateur cup north in its inaugural year in 1925-26 and reached the final on two other occasions, losing to Charlton Kings in 1947-48 and Bishops Cleeve in 1964-65. Other honours over the years have been the northern senior league division one championship in 1925-26,1946-47 and division two runners up in 1976-77. Runners up in the G.F.A. Challenge trophy season 1998-99.

Winning the Northern Senior league again in 1993-94 enabled them to gain promotion to the county league, before being voted from the league three seasons later.

Broadwell’s most famous player was the late Colin Hamblin who was also went on to play for the county; a trophy cabinet in his honour is proudly displayed in the club house.

2006-07 Season the first eleven finished as runners up to Tuffley Rovers in Northern Senior league Division 1. After a run of eighteen games without defeat a bad run of five defeats in the last eight games stopped them winning the league. Broadwell lost to Tuffley Rovers at Harrow Hill in the GFA senior county cup final the same season.

Broadwell were crowned Senior North County Cup Winners in season 2008-09 beating Shortwood Res 2-1 in the final at Slimbridge Afc.

Season 2009-10 the first team lost in the semi-finals of the GFA county cup and finished third in the league. The club continually finished in the top five for the next five seasons.

2014-15 Season saw the first team win the northern senior league title, win the Reg Davies memorial league cup, and come runners up to Brockworth Albion in the senior north county cup.

The clubs committee committed to changing room improvements and without any funding built new away changing rooms along with referee/assistants changing rooms, completed in April 2015. After a good first campaign finishing sixth under Gary Hurcombe the first team were managed by Lee Williams and Scott Albon finishing 12th in the league season 2016-17, reaching the final of the Les James cup losing to AEK BOCO 3-0.

Season 2017-18 saw Broadwell in the top five of the league for most of the season only to fall away at the later part due to the high volume of games played eventually finishing in seventh place. Broadwell did however jointly win the Respect league with Frampton United with a remarkable 100% record of no bookings for dissent. Season 2018-19 proved difficult for the club Manager Lee Williams and Scott Albon jointly retired from Management but continue their close links with the club. Season 2019-20 the club moved out of their comfort zone and appointed a manager from outside the club. Simon Beardsell ex Cheltenham Town Youth academy coach who stood down October 2019. The club were lucky to appoint immediately local coach Stuart Liddington ex Lydney Town, his task to improve on season 2019-20 league position. The extended period away from football due to Covid saw Stuart leave the club and return to Lydney Town 2020. First Team duties are now in the very capable hands of Chris Brain, who’s task is to blend our successful under eighteen team into first team players.

Chris made a positive impact, with Guy Jones as his assistant, bringing in some top players but nurturing the existing squad members seeing them secure some great results during the season, not to forget mentioning the team winning the Les James Cup in a tough battle against Sharpness, seeing Broadwell secure a 3-1 win! A great game and a great achievement for everyone.

The 2022 season saw the team start with Chris but unfortunately a few weeks in Chris made the decision to step down from the Manager role which made way for Guy Jones to step up from Assistant Manager to Manager.

Guy had some big shoes to fill in what was his debut as a County League Manager but he took on the role and gave it his all. 

Working hard on keeping morale up and spirits high, Guy continued to work with the team he had, making sure each game was a positive vibe, setting small goals and always applauding the results, regardless of win or lose. The season proved to be a tough one for Broadwell and during the final weeks of the we found ourselves at the bottom of the league table and heading towards the relegation zone. It looked a tough gig for Guy and the team to pull through and remain in the County League but through sheer determination from everyone and the support of all at Broadwell they did it! The final matches gave them the points they needed to remain just above relegation and another season heading into the County League.

Over the past couple of years Broadwell Club have benefited from some dedicated and enthusiastic club members who work tirelessly to improve our facilities, look after our grounds and keep everything tip top. They are fondly known as “The Wednesday Crew” and they are very much appreciated by all involved at Broadwell AFC, so much so they were awarded Clubman of the year at the club’s annual presentation in 2024!

Going into the 2024/2025 season Guy Jones remained as first Team Manager and halfway through was joined by Kirk Imm. Another challenging season saw the boys keep their Conty league season for another year.

Last season saw the return of Chris Brain as Coach to help Guy and Kirk along with a more settled squad the team finih in a comfortable mid table position.

Jack Watkins – Goalkeeper

One from the youth production line now starting his 6th Season in senior football. Great shot stopper who very rarely misses a game.

Jack Knight – Defender

Former Harrow Hill, right back or Right Midfield Jack can play both carries the ball well and has a very long throw in his locker. Loves a moan though.

Harry Knight – Defender

Younger brother of Jack and the better footballer (sorry Jack). Centre Half or Right Back, strong as an Ox and never shirks a challenge.

Jordi Locke – Defender

Ex Whitecroft Centre Mid who played Left Back last season due to lack of numbers. Mr dependable who adapted very quickly to his new role.

Aidan Creighton – Defender (Captain)

El Capitano or Mr Angry whichever you like. First name on the team sheet and can play anywhere along the back line. Another Mr dependable who we couldn’t do without.

Picked up another Player of the Season award think that’s 4 in 4 now.

Ethan Dunscombe – Defender

Ex Viney Hill Midfielder who joined start of last season. Mr Utility who played Defence, Midfield and Striker for us. Never moans or lets us down wherever we play him.

Kian Skidmore – Defender

Kian 23 is also back at the club after playing at a higher level for Cinderford and Lydney. Can play Left Back or wide in midfield, loves a tackle and has a wand of a left foot sometimes.

Kris Burnard – Defender

Missed far too many games in recent seasons through injury and suspension but if we can keep fit is one of the best Centre Half’s in the County. Also thinks he’s a striker but scoring record isn’t the best.

Nath Davies – Midfielder

Nath who played Cinderford Town 18s when he was younger joined us 3 seasons ago from Harrow Hill. Work horse midfielder who gets around the pitch so well. Chips in with the odd goal but really should get more.

Ben Fishwick – Midfielder

Senior statesman of the squad, Mr calm on the ball, rarely gives it away. Just what you need in Centre Mid, his experience will be valuable with such a young squad.

Jamie Creed – Striker

One we have been chasing for a while. Finally happy to get the local lad over the line and still only 18. Bags of talent and hopefully lead the line this year and find the back of the net on numerous occasions

Billy Guest – Midfield

Tough tackling midfielder is back at Broadwell for the 3rd time after signing from Lydney Town mid-way through last season. Definitely loves a challenge and the odd yellow card here and there.

Aaron Powell – Midfield

Aaron has signed this season from Lydbrook Ath. Can play multiple positions and has a wand of a left foot. Looking to cement his place in the team as the season progresses.

Harry Malcom – Midfield

Another young tough tackling Midfielder who joined early last season from Malvern. Such a great engine and does so much work that goes unnoticed. Got a good future ahead of him.

Jamie Belfitt – Midfield

Young Mr Belf definitely gets his footballing ability from his Mum. Played wide last couple of seasons and also as a makeshift Striker. Picked up Players Player last season and will be looking to push on again this season

Dan Brain – Midfield

Dan is now back at the club after a few years away playing higher at Cinderford and Lydney. One of our most creative players and still only 23, always looking to create and pops up now and again with a goal. Will hopefully play more central this season in his preferred position.

Connor Smith – Defender

A young Right back who never lets us down, tenacious and has a great engine. This season will want to push on and try and cement a position in the first team

Liam Brain – Midfield

Younger brother to Dan and goes by the nickname of Snowman. Baby of the group at 17 but will be looking for a regular starting spot this season. Can pick a pass and has bags of energy.

Rhys Childs – Defender

Rhys is a young quick defender who played reserve and A Team football last season. Bags of energy and doesn’t mind getting stuck in for his age. Another one Guy will be keeping a close eye on.

Rhys Macpherson – Striker

Rhys is a young quick striker who also played reserve and A Team football last season, been with the 1st team preseason and had some good performances. Will look to make an impression when selected.

Phil Chovenac – Goalkeeper

Phil has joined us this season after playing last year for Gloucester City Under18s.

Phil is confident with both feet and a great shot stopper. May need to take a bit of length off his goal kicks though.

Guy Jones – Manager

Mr Broadwell … Now his 4rd season in charge but 6th overall being involved with the first team. Hoping to push on and have a good season with probably the strongest ever squad he’s had available.

Kirk Imm – Coach

Kirk loves being on the training pitch with the lads delivering sessions. Good job his sessions are better than his time keeping. Loves his Tactic Board.

Only one League match this week as most other teams were playing County cup games, with Longlevens Reserves, Broadwell Amateurs, AFC Mangotsfield Rocks and Stoke Gifford SGS United knocked out.

It was a warm but drizzly day at Arnall Drive where Henbury & Rockleaze should have had the game wrapped up in the first twenty minutes, however, Wick dug in and played their part in a game that was a good advert for Gloucestershire County League football. The game was helped by being superbly officiated by Simon Shaw. H&R took the lead on 5 minutes when Tommy Collins managed to get the ball out to Nick Jones who was one-on-one with ex-teammate Callum Winter and went past him with ease and his fierce shot from 10 yards out found the back of the net. On 15 minutes Wick keeper Goradz Gigov brilliant denied Kane Mannings to make the first of what would be a series of great saves. In fact, just 2 minutes later he did well with a fierce 30-yard drive from James Capon and the twice saved well with his legs after a melee from a corner.

On 37 minutes another superb save denied Drew Sawdon, but Wick were playing their part and were putting pressure on the H&R fullbacks, and eventually on 43 minutes the pressure paid off when some neat footwork by Bayley-Rudge saw him fire at goal, a shot which Harry Trett could only parry and Fred Taylor-Fox was there to smash the ball past the flailing defenders to take both sides in level at the break.

Wick then got back into the game and had the next 15 minutes of pressure, although they never really tested Trett other than to test his ability to deal with long crosses. On 75 minutes Jordan Buckett rattled the post from a yard out with a header from Bangoura’s corner and then, just a minute later, Mannings hit the post again reaching for a ball across the six-yard box. Both teams huffed and puffed for the last 15 minutes without creating any real chances and they both settled for a draw as the sun came out and set on what was an exciting 1-1 game for the 71 spectators in attendance.

I am still having sleepless nights over the football, which is crazy.”

It will be some day in Redcar. With Town taking on Darlington at lunchtime for the BBC cameras, the afternoon will see Athletic host last year’s giantkillers Macclesfield.

Town were competing in the North Riding Senior League as recently as 2022, so to be going head-to-head with a former EFL that are managed by a former Premier League star Steve Watson is a truly historic moment.

“This is only our fifth season in the Northern League and now we are in the second qualifying round of the FA Cup and facing Darlington,” explained joint-manager Mitchell Morris to Mark Carruthers.

“We didn’t really expect to beat Bridlington or Blyth Spartans and now we want to try and knock Darlington out if we can. 

“Steve Watson had an unbelievable career with the likes of Newcastle and Everton and it’s just surreal that we will be going up against their side.  It will be a tough day for us but one we will enjoy.”

As for Athletic boss Carl Jarrett, whose side were promoted to NPL Premier in style last season, said: “They are second in their division, favourites to go up, they beat Palace last year, a massive club, before getting knocked out by Brentford.

“To get them is a massive draw for the club, we are hoping we get a big crowd and I am sure the fans are on cloud nine at the moment.”