Following their emphatic win last Saturday against Kempston Rovers by seven goals to one, Ashford make the short trip on Saturday to play against Hayes & Yeading FC at their new ground, built on the site of the old Yeading ground.  Kixk-off is at 3.00 p.m. as usual and the address of the ground is the Skyex Community Stadium, Beaconsfield Road, Hayes, UB4 0SL.  Admission for adults is £10,. Whilst concessions (over 65) are £6 and £3 for children.

After an iffy start, including a 0-4 defeat at Short Lane, H & Y have now found their form and are all out to re-gain promotion to Step 3.  Last week they won 2-0 at Cambridge City but on Tuesday they lost their grip upon the League Cup losing on penalties away at Hitchin Town.  We were one of their victims as they made their way to the semi-final.

We seem to have arrested the indifferent spell that saw us tumbling down the table with two draws followed by last week’s excellent performance against Kempston.  The difference between the sides was not really Ashford’s determination as Kempston had that as well, but rather the penetration that saw us taking a high proportion of our opportunities.  We shall need that in abundance this afternoon if we are to take anything from the game.

As you will see if you have a look at our ground the new covered terracing behind the goal is virtually complete and it is only thanks to a handful of club members who have pledged to pay £500 each for Life Membership that we are able to pay for it.  It will though enable us to retain our Grade C even though we only need a Grade D to play at this level.

There are plenty of things coming up at the ground in the new future and we need the support of everyone at the Club.  Next Friday, 2 March, we have our first sport and general knowledge quiz with quizmaster Paul Mann.  Teams of 2-6 are needed for a fun evening which will start around 8.00 p.m.

Finally, Mark Bitmead is finally able to run again and although it looks unlikely that he will be able to return this season, he is making excellent progress, as is Joe Green as both look to recover from their devastating injuries.