WEEKLY BULLETIN: 14TH NOVEMBER
Upcoming Fixtures
Saturday 15 November vs Hadley (H) – Southern League
We welcome Hadley to Top Field for a Southern League Division One Central match. We met Hadley on the opening day of the season and Hitchin took all three points in a 2-0 win with goals from Ciaren Jones and Taylor Rhiney. Kick-off is at 3.03pm (more on that further down this bulletin!)
Hadley have had a great run of recent form narrowly losing to 1-0 to Leighton Town in their last match which followed a 6-1 win against Ware, a 4-3 win against Enfield and a 3-1 win against Hertford Town. They currently sit eighth in the table on 25 points from their 14 games played.
Tickets
Where possible we advising purchasing online. As well as being cheaper, it will ensure your quick and easy entry into the ground through the turnstiles.
Please purchase your tickets online here:
https://hitchintownfc.ktckts.com/brand/match-tickets
The online box office remains open until 30 minutes after kick off.
If you do need to buy your tickets in person, our Matchday ticket office will be open from 13.30-15.15 , and can be accessed from the rear car park (behind the Canary Club). Once you have purchased a ticket at the Matchday Ticket Office you will then present your ticket at the turnstiles for entry. More details here:
https://hitchintownfc.club/admission-prices/
Turnstiles open at 14.00
Parking
Unfortunately supporter parking is not available in the club car park (unless you are a registered blue badge holder and have made prior arrangements).
Food and Drink
The Canary Club bar is open from 11.00 with some of the lowest prices in Hitchin! Drinks can be taken into the ground in a reusable plastic cup. (£1 deposit required). You can exit to the bar during the match and will be re-admitted via the side gate by showing your hand-stamp.
Please enter the ground as early as possible before kick off to avoid congestion at the turnstiles. We have the following options inside the ground and you can still exit to the Canary Club Bar too:
Mad Squirrel Brewery are serving a great range of craft beers, ciders and lager. They are located adjacent to the main stand.
Canary Kitchen will be open from when the turnstiles open serving a great range of food and soft drinks including our signature HTFC Pies.
Club Shop
Get your matchday programme, teamsheet, chocolate bars, sweets and HTFC merchandise from the club shop.
For full details on the facilities at Top Field see our Matchday Info page here:
https://hitchintownfc.club/matchday-info/
We look forward to welcoming everyone to Top Field and hope that everyone has a great afternoon.
Manager’s Notes
Draw at Beaconsfield Town
We knew travelling to Beaconsfield was going to be another difficult game. We started off the first 20 minutes in control and during this period we should have taken the lead as we had an opportunity in the first 3 minutes where Callum Nicolson could not adjust his feet in time and the follow up shot by Josh Jackman was well saved by the keeper. We then created more chances but Josh Jackman and Lewis Franklin’s efforts were both superbly blocked for corners. We then followed a pattern that has crept into our game in future weeks, we conceded a goal against the run of play. This gave Beaconsfield confidence, energy and something to hold on to. They then became very difficult to break down and our chances dried up, although the keeper did make another very good save from Callum Nicolson to turn the ball round the post for a corner. We were starting to lose patience and get frustrated and this meant we tried to force passes that were not on. Beaconsfield were not really causing problems to Alfie as he only had to make one routine save from around 30 yards out. We needed to get in at half time so we could reset. We then had a real sucker punch when a set play right on the half was headed in to give Beaconsfield a comfortable lead.
Half Time we needed more energy and fight but we needed more solutions to break down a team that was sitting back and protecting what they had. We made a sub with Ade coming on for Josh Coldicott – Stevens and changed shape.
We then started the second half at a fast pace with Calum Kane having a shot which was comfortably saved. We were moving the ball quicker, we were a lot more patient with our play, we had bodies higher up the pitch and our movement was very good, this caused problems for the hosts and then less than 5 minutes into the half a Lewis Franklin cross found Taylor Rhiney whose initial effort was excellently saved but he was able to put in the rebound. Less than 5 minutes later a Lewis Franklin header hit the bar and we weren’t able to get onto the rebound. Callum Kane then had another effort that just went past the post as we pushed for the equaliser and this was followed up by a Lewis Franklin effort that skimmed the top of the bar. Beaconsfield were having to defend deep and their only real relief was from set plays which were well defended. Some really patient build up play found Josh Jackman out wide and he smashed home to give us a deserved equaliser. We then had two good opportunities to take the lead from Lewis Franklin, the first was well held by the keeper and the second was just dragged wide. Not long after these chances Callum Kane’s shot beat the keeper but it cannoned off of the bar to keep the scores level. We had now dominated the first 30 minutes of the second half, scored two goals and should have been leading the match. Beaconsfield now started to creep back into the game and they had a period of well taken corners that we had to defend with everything we had to keep the ball from going in, with the most notable being a header off the line by Toby Syme. The game became more scrappy in the final minutes as both teams pushed for the win but defended well to make sure they did not lose.
Full Time and a 2-2 draw. We were punished for not taking our chances in the first 20 minutes of the game and gave ourselves a mountain to climb in the second half. Despite throwing everything at the hosts we were unable to find the three goals needed to get maximum points.
Thank you to everyone who travelled to the game and I am sure you all saw a team that gave everything to get the win!
Cup Win over Leverstock Green
Tuesday in the Herts Senior Cup allowed us a chance to rotate some players around. This allowed us to make 6 changes to the starting 11 from Saturday’s game with Will McNeill, Kye Tearle, Cole Butler, Adeniyi Gbolahan and new loan signing Tyler McGregor coming in.
We knew how difficult this game was going to be after Leverstock pushed us all the way in our previous home game. Leverstock had the first chance of the game after a break away but Tyler McGregor held well in difficult conditions. We then took control of the game and were trying to find ways to break down Leverstock’s press and defensive structure. We then took the lead through Kye Tearle from a corner. Leverstock green were looking a threat from breakaways and set plays and we were struggling to find the finishing touches to our moves with the Leverstock keeper making a couple of good saves.
Second half and we created more chances but some of these were just off target or the Leverstock keeper made a good save. The best chance came when Diogo hit the post. We needed a second goal to make sure we could relax a little and in the 74 minute we were able to extend the lead after a good save from a Cole Butler shot was put in by Mbunya Alemanji. We then continued to press on for more goals but a combination of some poor shooting and some fine saves kept the score at 2-0.
A 2-0 win and into the next round of the cup, it was great to be able to rotate the team and show the strength we have within the squad. It was good to get some goals and a clean sheet as it seems a long time since we last had one. Special mentions to Cole Butler and Will McNeill who have both been getting game time elsewhere but both took their opportunity and provided plenty of energy and some real good quality.
I would also like to thank the 200 supporters who braved the conditions for a Herts Senior Cup game and in particular the core of youngsters who created a great atmosphere throughout the whole game which made it even more enjoyable.
Meeting with Hadley
Saturday we host Hadley and this will be the first team we have played twice this season. Hadley had an impressive season last year where they finished in the playoffs losing to eventual winners Berkhamsted.
When we played Hadley in the first game of the season it was a very tight occasion with not much happening in the first half but we were able to step on in the second half and were clinical with our chances in a very close game to give us a 2-0 win. Since then Hadley have only lost two in the league, to Mk Irish and last weekend to unbeaten league leaders Leighton Town. This shows the strength of Hadley and I am sure they will be in the play offs at the end of the season.
Hadley are a very big, physical team who are a threat from set plays. They also have a lot of pace In their attacking line which always means they are a threat.
We need to make sure we do not give ourselves a mountain to climb and we need to make sure when the chances present themselves to us that we are clinical.
I expect a very close battle on Saturday against a very good side.
Please continue to turn up in your numbers, get behind the group and bring as much noise and positive energy as possible. Lets get Top Field buzzing again!!!
Player News
- Josh Bowler has increased his level of training as he continues to work towards his recovery schedule.
- Plamedi Bomolo remains on a dual registration with Kempston Rovers FC.
- George Morrall is suffering with an injury that will keep him out.
- Fernando Bell-Toxtle is still suffering with an injury picked up against Northwood.
- Charlie Briggs is struggling with an injury picked up in training.
Academy Update
Blue Joy after impressing in the first team has been invited in on trial with a professional club. Blue has been very consistent this season and deserves this opportunity to show what he can do in a professional environment. We wish Blue every success.
Tuesday Will McNiell played 90 minutes for the first team and had an excellent game, playing out of position. It was also great to see other academy player Blue Joy in the team, who has established himself as a regular as well as former academy players, Kye Tearle who scored, Callum Kane and Lewis Franklin.
If you would like to be part of the academy or would like to find out more information on what we offer please register your details using this link – https://extranet.wearescl.co.uk/SCLSPEnquiry/
Michael Jones
3UP Campaign
As you may be aware, there is growing momentum behind the 3UP campaign ahead of the Day of Action this coming Saturday, calling for three promotion places from the National League to the EFL.
The Trident Leagues (Southern, Isthmian and Northern leagues) have joined forces this weekend to show their support for the National League’s 3 Up campaign. Our fixture against Hadley tomorrow will therefore be kicking off at 3.03pm along with all other matches at Step 3 and 4.
To sign the petition, click the link here: change.org/VoteFor3UP
Herts Police
We are pleased to welcome Herts Police to our match against Hadley tomorrow (Saturday 15 Nov). The team from Herts Police will be located next to the Mad Squirrel bar and will be raising awareness for their Hate crime and Knife crime campaigns. Please go over and have a chat with them to find out what they are doing in response to these important issues and how you can do your bit to help reduce these crimes.
Merchandise Update
Christmas Shopping
It’s time to start thinking about orders for Christmas presents. Deadlines are now fast approaching to get some items ordered in aim to ensure delivery dates for Christmas. Some of our replica shirts on the online club shop are made to order and so the following items must be ordered by Sunday 16 November to aim for pre-Christmas delivery:
- All replica Goalkeeper shirts
- Infant Warm Up shirts
For all other replica shirts – we do keep a limited number in stock, but again to try to ensure that we can supply the right shirt in the right size for Christmas presents we would recommend either purchasing as soon as possible from the club shop or by ordering online by Sunday 16 November.
For fanwear (hoodies, coats, polo shirts etc) some items are online only and not stocked in the Top Field Club Shop. These items are supplied to order. The deadline for ordering these will be Sunday 30 November. For items that we do typically stock in the Club Shop, again we would advise either buying these early or ordering online by the deadline so we can supply the right item in the right size. We only hold a limited stock in the club shop and can’t guarantee availability of all sizes throughout December.
New Lines Added
We have the following new lines now available:
Adult Polo Shirts – Online and in the Club Shop soon – £25
Sweatshirts (Purple, Jade and Mint) – Online only – Adult £30, Junior £25
Boot Bags – Club Shop – £13
Lunch Bags – Club Shop – £15
Further lines are due to be added both online and in the shop in the next couple of weeks too.
Browse the full range here: https://hitchintownfc.ktckts.com/brand/merchandise
Paul Sprague
Herts Senior Cup Update
Here are the second round fixtures and results:
Hadley 0-0 Royston (4-3 on penalties)
Hitchin Town 2-0 Leverstock Green
Welwyn Garden City v London Lions – to be played on 18 November
Potters Bar V Watford – to be played on 24 November
Bishops Stortford 4-0 Tring Athletic
Cheshunt 0-9 Berkhamsted
Ware 0-6 Hemel Hempstead
AFC Welwyn 2-4 St Albans
These are the quarter final ties due to be played 9 December (date for our fixture still tbc due to our league fixture on that date)
Bishops Stortford v Hadley
Hemel Hempstead v Welwyn Garden City or London Lions
Hitchin Town v Potters Bar or Watford
St Albans v Berkhamsted
The Boy Done Good (Part 4)
We previously highlighted former Canary Jonathan Barnett as a very proud father of Luca Williams-Barnett making his full first team debut for Tottenham Hotspurs at the age of 16 years old.
This has been followed up with a Man of the Match performance and 2 goals in England U17’s World Cup match in Qatar against Haiti with Johnny in attendance.
England also beat Egypt earlier this week in the final group stage match to qualify for the knockout stage of the competition.
The England Manager at the tournament is former Canary Neil Ryan who played for Hitchin in the very successful period of the mid 1990’s including both FA Cup giant killings against Hereford United and Bristol Rovers.
Neil was a skilful, creative midfield player that arrived at Top Field in September 1994 after being released by Luton Town. He made his debut for the Canaries coming on as a substitute at home in the 3-1 loss to Molesey.
He featured in the epic FA Cup matches against Hereford United, Wycombe Wanderers, Bristol Rovers and Gillingham before making his last appearance at home in the narrow 1-0 defeat to Aldershot Town in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final on the 27th February 1996.
Neil left Hitchin and moved to the USA to play professionally for Portland Timbers and Richmond Kickers before returning to England and playing for Altrincham for a couple of seasons in the Northern Premier League.
However, he gave up playing to concentrate on his coaching career that saw him rise through the ranks at Manchester United’s Academy over 19 years finally becoming the U23’s Assistant Manager before leaving in 2022 to take up his position in the England Youth set up.
Fingers crossed both he and Luca can bring success back to England with the winning of the U17’s World Cup.
Community Update
Coaching Course at The Arena
Junior Ability Counts
The Junior Ability Counts sessions at the Arena, Baldock started on Monday 3rd November and will run until 8th December 2025. The sessions start from 5pm until 6pm and are open to 5 – 16 year olds with physical and or SEN but be able to walk.
Safe Hands Goalkeeping Course
The very popular Safe Hands Goalkeeping sessions at the Arena, Baldock also started this week on Wednesday from 5.30-6.30pm with former Hitchin Town 1st Team goalkeeper Josh Mollison.
The next session will be on 12th November until 10th December and are open to 6-14 year olds
Coaching in Schools
If there are any schools requiring support for their PE, PPA, Wraparound provision, After School and Breakfast Clubs please contact Josh Mollison on info@htcfc.co.uk
Mark Burke
HTWFC Update
Latest Results & Fixtures
HTWFC Canaries 4-0 Bedford Central
Sunday 16th November 2025 – 14:00
Hitchin Town Women FC v Letchworth Garden City Eagles Women
Hitchin Town FC, SG5 1NU
Bletchley Scot Ladies v HTWFC Canaries
Selbourne Avenue, Bletchley, MK3 5BX
Winter Training
We have now returned to The Arena, Norton Road, Baldock, SG7 5AU for our winter training. Training is held 19:30 to 20:30 weekly on a Wednesday evening. No experience necessary, wear something comfy and some football boots or astroturf trainers and your are set! Contact hello@hitchintownwomenfc.co.uk for more information!
Callum’s Marathon
Everyone knows our Callum. Callum Ellis has been a part of Hitchin Town FC for fifteen years. He has volunteered a number of hours and asked for nothing in return. He has been a coach within the community, women’s manager, Club Secretary and general go to when things need doing or advice is needed. He is now the Club Welfare Officer. Callum’s work within Hitchin Town FC keeps us playing our football, so we thought we need to do our bit for him.
He has been training for the London Marathon 2026 and is running for a charity that we at Hitchin Town FC support, The Garden House Hospice. The Garden House Hospice is facing a huge fall in funding and are running a Crisis Appeal. They need our donations more than ever now to keep this vital community service going.
To donate to his page please head to https://www.justgiving.com/page/callum-ellis2025
Callum Ellis