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		<title><![CDATA[Sports Babble - sports forum - Aldershot]]></title>
		<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Sports Babble - sports forum - https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2026 22:59:10 +0000</pubDate>
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			<title><![CDATA[John Coleman]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=14013</link>
			<pubDate>Sun, 26 Oct 2025 07:53:15 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=52">themaclad</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=14013</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[National League side Aldershot Town have appointed John Coleman as their new manager.<br />
<br />
The 63-year-old has almost 30 years of managerial experience and has coached the likes of of Accrington Stanley, Rochdale and Gillingham.<br />
<br />
Coleman succeeds Tommy Widdrington who resigned earlier this month with the club in 19th place after three wins in 14 league games.<br />
<br />
Coleman led Accrington from non-league football back into the EFL in 2006 and won the League Two title 12 years later during his second spell with the club.<br />
<br />
He was most recently managing League of Ireland side Waterford, leaving them last month.<br />
<br />
"We are really excited to welcome John to the EBB Stadium," chairman Shahid Azeem said.<br />
<br />
"His experience at non-league and above and what he has given to the game is nothing short of remarkable."<br />
<br />
Interim manager Alan Dowson will lead the club in Saturday's trip to Scunthorpe United with Coleman's first game in charge coming next week in the FA Cup first round trip to Weston-super-Mare.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[National League side Aldershot Town have appointed John Coleman as their new manager.<br />
<br />
The 63-year-old has almost 30 years of managerial experience and has coached the likes of of Accrington Stanley, Rochdale and Gillingham.<br />
<br />
Coleman succeeds Tommy Widdrington who resigned earlier this month with the club in 19th place after three wins in 14 league games.<br />
<br />
Coleman led Accrington from non-league football back into the EFL in 2006 and won the League Two title 12 years later during his second spell with the club.<br />
<br />
He was most recently managing League of Ireland side Waterford, leaving them last month.<br />
<br />
"We are really excited to welcome John to the EBB Stadium," chairman Shahid Azeem said.<br />
<br />
"His experience at non-league and above and what he has given to the game is nothing short of remarkable."<br />
<br />
Interim manager Alan Dowson will lead the club in Saturday's trip to Scunthorpe United with Coleman's first game in charge coming next week in the FA Cup first round trip to Weston-super-Mare.]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[Tommy Departs]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=13994</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2025 17:25:56 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=52">themaclad</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=13994</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Aldershot Town manager Tommy Widdrington has resigned, five months after winning the FA Trophy with the National League side.<br />
<br />
The 54-year-old had been at the Shots since April 2023 and signed a new two year contract in August.<br />
<br />
Aldershot are 19th in the fifth tier having won three of their 14 games this season.<br />
<br />
Widdrington oversaw one of the most famous days in Shots history as they beat Spennymoor Town 3-0 in front of 18,000 of their own fans at Wembley to lift the FA Trophy.<br />
<br />
"Aldershot Town Football Club can confirm that Tommy Widdrington has informed the club of his resignation as first-team manager," a club statement said., external<br />
<br />
"Hugo Langton and Alan Dowson will be overseeing first-team affairs ahead of Saturday's game against Tamworth.<br />
<br />
"The club will be making no further comment at this stage."<br />
<br />
At the start of 2025 Widdrington had to step away temporarily after suffering two strokes.<br />
<br />
After winning the FA Trophy in May he said that the support he had received from the people of Aldershot after his health scares was "incredible".]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Aldershot Town manager Tommy Widdrington has resigned, five months after winning the FA Trophy with the National League side.<br />
<br />
The 54-year-old had been at the Shots since April 2023 and signed a new two year contract in August.<br />
<br />
Aldershot are 19th in the fifth tier having won three of their 14 games this season.<br />
<br />
Widdrington oversaw one of the most famous days in Shots history as they beat Spennymoor Town 3-0 in front of 18,000 of their own fans at Wembley to lift the FA Trophy.<br />
<br />
"Aldershot Town Football Club can confirm that Tommy Widdrington has informed the club of his resignation as first-team manager," a club statement said., external<br />
<br />
"Hugo Langton and Alan Dowson will be overseeing first-team affairs ahead of Saturday's game against Tamworth.<br />
<br />
"The club will be making no further comment at this stage."<br />
<br />
At the start of 2025 Widdrington had to step away temporarily after suffering two strokes.<br />
<br />
After winning the FA Trophy in May he said that the support he had received from the people of Aldershot after his health scares was "incredible".]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[Shot news]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=13838</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2025 06:32:27 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=52">themaclad</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=13838</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Kiban Rai has signed for National League Aldershot after being released by Newport County.<br />
<br />
The 20-year-old made a total of 30 appearances for the Exiles, scoring once, having made his senior debut at the age of 17.<br />
<br />
But after his contract was not renewed, the attacking midfielder or forward has joined a Shots side who finished 16th in the fifth tier last season.<br />
<br />
Aldershot boss Tommy Widrington called Rai "a really exciting prospect".]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Kiban Rai has signed for National League Aldershot after being released by Newport County.<br />
<br />
The 20-year-old made a total of 30 appearances for the Exiles, scoring once, having made his senior debut at the age of 17.<br />
<br />
But after his contract was not renewed, the attacking midfielder or forward has joined a Shots side who finished 16th in the fifth tier last season.<br />
<br />
Aldershot boss Tommy Widrington called Rai "a really exciting prospect".]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[Battling Cancer]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=12292</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 01 May 2023 08:15:40 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=52">themaclad</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=12292</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Aldershot Town forward Josh McQuoid says he will receive treatment this summer after being diagnosed with a rare cancer in his leg.<br />
<br />
The 33-year-old former Northern Ireland international has been diagnosed with sarcoma, which affects the tissues that connect, support and surround other body structures and organs.<br />
<br />
McQuoid has continued to play since getting the diagnosis a few weeks ago.<br />
<br />
"It's early days but the prognosis so far is positive as it can be," he said.<br />
<br />
"It's been a tough few weeks but I'm lucky to have such a great family and group of friends who are supporting me all the way.<br />
<br />
"I want to thank my team-mates, the manager and all the staff, who have been supportive at this time."<br />
<br />
McQuoid is in his second spell with the Shots, helping them stay in the National League this season, and has previously played for clubs including Bournemouth, Luton and Weymouth.<br />
<br />
He added: "Hopefully this message can grow awareness around any lump or bump. It's normally nothing but it's better to be safe than sorry."]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Aldershot Town forward Josh McQuoid says he will receive treatment this summer after being diagnosed with a rare cancer in his leg.<br />
<br />
The 33-year-old former Northern Ireland international has been diagnosed with sarcoma, which affects the tissues that connect, support and surround other body structures and organs.<br />
<br />
McQuoid has continued to play since getting the diagnosis a few weeks ago.<br />
<br />
"It's early days but the prognosis so far is positive as it can be," he said.<br />
<br />
"It's been a tough few weeks but I'm lucky to have such a great family and group of friends who are supporting me all the way.<br />
<br />
"I want to thank my team-mates, the manager and all the staff, who have been supportive at this time."<br />
<br />
McQuoid is in his second spell with the Shots, helping them stay in the National League this season, and has previously played for clubs including Bournemouth, Luton and Weymouth.<br />
<br />
He added: "Hopefully this message can grow awareness around any lump or bump. It's normally nothing but it's better to be safe than sorry."]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[Tommy Widdrington]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=12225</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 03 Apr 2023 16:11:34 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=52">themaclad</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=12225</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[National League strugglers Aldershot Town have replaced interim boss Ross McNeilly with former King's Lynn Town manager Tommy Widdrington.<br />
<br />
Widdrington, 51, resigned from the Linnets on Saturday after 15 months in charge at The Walks.<br />
<br />
McNeilly took over on a temporary basis until the end of the season after Mark Molesley was sacked last October.<br />
<br />
But Shots chairman Shahid Azeem said they "needed to make a change" with the club five points clear of relegation.<br />
<br />
McNeilly will return to his former role running the club's academy, with Azeem thanking him for his "huge effort and hard work since stepping up from academy manager back in October."<br />
<br />
Widdrington leaves King's Lynn second in National League North, five points behind AFC Fylde in the only automatic promotion place.<br />
<br />
With six games to go in the Shots' National League campaign, Widdrington's immediate task is to secure their status in the division, with the two teams immediately below them - Gateshead and Yeovil - having three games and one game in hand on them, respectively.<br />
<br />
The Shots play Yeovil at home in Widdrington's first match in charge on Friday.<br />
<br />
"When notified of Tommy's resignation, [we] wanted to act quickly to secure the man that we believe can help us with the final push towards mathematical safety," Azeem said.<br />
<br />
Fires-team coach Mark Hughes has been appointed interim manager for the rest of the season by King's Lynn.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[National League strugglers Aldershot Town have replaced interim boss Ross McNeilly with former King's Lynn Town manager Tommy Widdrington.<br />
<br />
Widdrington, 51, resigned from the Linnets on Saturday after 15 months in charge at The Walks.<br />
<br />
McNeilly took over on a temporary basis until the end of the season after Mark Molesley was sacked last October.<br />
<br />
But Shots chairman Shahid Azeem said they "needed to make a change" with the club five points clear of relegation.<br />
<br />
McNeilly will return to his former role running the club's academy, with Azeem thanking him for his "huge effort and hard work since stepping up from academy manager back in October."<br />
<br />
Widdrington leaves King's Lynn second in National League North, five points behind AFC Fylde in the only automatic promotion place.<br />
<br />
With six games to go in the Shots' National League campaign, Widdrington's immediate task is to secure their status in the division, with the two teams immediately below them - Gateshead and Yeovil - having three games and one game in hand on them, respectively.<br />
<br />
The Shots play Yeovil at home in Widdrington's first match in charge on Friday.<br />
<br />
"When notified of Tommy's resignation, [we] wanted to act quickly to secure the man that we believe can help us with the final push towards mathematical safety," Azeem said.<br />
<br />
Fires-team coach Mark Hughes has been appointed interim manager for the rest of the season by King's Lynn.]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[Shot boss]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11920</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 07 Dec 2022 14:18:37 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=52">themaclad</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11920</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Aldershot Town have appointed interim boss Ross McNeilly as manager on a permanent basis until at least the end of the National League season.<br />
<br />
The 38-year-old, who spent almost five years as Shots academy boss, has guided them to five wins in eight games since Mark Molesley was sacked in October.<br />
<br />
The club say they have a "view to extend" McNeilly's contract further.<br />
<br />
"He's come through the academy, knows the club and the players want to play under him," said chairman Shahid Azeem.<br />
<br />
"The performances and winning record during his interim spell stood out among the high-quality pool of candidates that applied.<br />
<br />
"The board are very excited to have Ross in charge until the end of the season where we will sit down and discuss plans for the future beyond this year."<br />
<br />
Molesley and assistant Tom Prodomo were dismissed after eight defeats in the opening 13 games of the season left Aldershot 22nd in the table.<br />
<br />
The Shots won their first three matches under McNeilly and although they followed that with three consecutive defeats, two more victories have lifted them to 15th, eight points clear of the bottom four.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Aldershot Town have appointed interim boss Ross McNeilly as manager on a permanent basis until at least the end of the National League season.<br />
<br />
The 38-year-old, who spent almost five years as Shots academy boss, has guided them to five wins in eight games since Mark Molesley was sacked in October.<br />
<br />
The club say they have a "view to extend" McNeilly's contract further.<br />
<br />
"He's come through the academy, knows the club and the players want to play under him," said chairman Shahid Azeem.<br />
<br />
"The performances and winning record during his interim spell stood out among the high-quality pool of candidates that applied.<br />
<br />
"The board are very excited to have Ross in charge until the end of the season where we will sit down and discuss plans for the future beyond this year."<br />
<br />
Molesley and assistant Tom Prodomo were dismissed after eight defeats in the opening 13 games of the season left Aldershot 22nd in the table.<br />
<br />
The Shots won their first three matches under McNeilly and although they followed that with three consecutive defeats, two more victories have lifted them to 15th, eight points clear of the bottom four.]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[Sack race continues]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11794</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 17 Oct 2022 10:38:58 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=83">Devongone</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11794</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Aldershot have sacked both their Manager and his assistant, Molesley and Prodomo I think. Terry Brown who has wide non-league experienece at the age of 70 has taken temporary charge.<br />
<br />
Aldershot lost 2-0 at Chelmsford in the FA Cup, but to be fair Chelmsford are a decent side by all accounts.<br />
<br />
Also, on Saturday the racehorse Aldershot made her debut at Market Rasen in a Bumper (National Hunt Flat race). After lying in second she appeared to run out of stamina and finished 9th of 10. The bad news is 2 miles is the minimum National HUnt distance except for races of this kind, which was a couple of furlongs less. So, if she doesn't stay this trip she'll struggle. Certainly, her pedigree suggests she won't last out. Neither her sire, nor dam won beyond a mile. Her grandsire managed two furlongs further just once .......]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Aldershot have sacked both their Manager and his assistant, Molesley and Prodomo I think. Terry Brown who has wide non-league experienece at the age of 70 has taken temporary charge.<br />
<br />
Aldershot lost 2-0 at Chelmsford in the FA Cup, but to be fair Chelmsford are a decent side by all accounts.<br />
<br />
Also, on Saturday the racehorse Aldershot made her debut at Market Rasen in a Bumper (National Hunt Flat race). After lying in second she appeared to run out of stamina and finished 9th of 10. The bad news is 2 miles is the minimum National HUnt distance except for races of this kind, which was a couple of furlongs less. So, if she doesn't stay this trip she'll struggle. Certainly, her pedigree suggests she won't last out. Neither her sire, nor dam won beyond a mile. Her grandsire managed two furlongs further just once .......]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[Common Denominator]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11628</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 17 Aug 2022 16:09:40 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=83">Devongone</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11628</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Aldershot fans were apparently guilty of damaging part of the stadium and abusing Boreham Wood keeper Nathan Ashmore last night.<br />
<br />
Now I'm not usually into victim-blaming, but it does seem that a significant percentage of times that National League fans are accused of misbehaviour Nathan Ashmore has been in goal for the opposition.<br />
<br />
Whilst racism in sport, as in life, is despicable, isn't there sufficient evidence that Nathan's behaviour is undeniably a contributory factor in these instances? It isn't simply that he is a very good keeper at this level, despite his build, who likes to put on a performance and interact with the crowd. It goes further than that, and the fans of several different clubs have reacted in the same way. <br />
<br />
Shouldn't the League be asking him to curb his excesses and in return be promising to protect him from all forms of racial abuse? The danger is that one day the incident won't remain minor and someone will do something everyone, including Nathan, will regret.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Aldershot fans were apparently guilty of damaging part of the stadium and abusing Boreham Wood keeper Nathan Ashmore last night.<br />
<br />
Now I'm not usually into victim-blaming, but it does seem that a significant percentage of times that National League fans are accused of misbehaviour Nathan Ashmore has been in goal for the opposition.<br />
<br />
Whilst racism in sport, as in life, is despicable, isn't there sufficient evidence that Nathan's behaviour is undeniably a contributory factor in these instances? It isn't simply that he is a very good keeper at this level, despite his build, who likes to put on a performance and interact with the crowd. It goes further than that, and the fans of several different clubs have reacted in the same way. <br />
<br />
Shouldn't the League be asking him to curb his excesses and in return be promising to protect him from all forms of racial abuse? The danger is that one day the incident won't remain minor and someone will do something everyone, including Nathan, will regret.]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[Aldershot Chairman pays tribute to Danny Searle]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=10677</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 20 Sep 2021 15:55:01 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=83">Devongone</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=10677</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Aldershot's Chairman went for the full hagiography on Danny Searle and his family, straight after sacking him and probably ruining his life.<br />
<br />
Mate, if he's that good all you had to do was wait and you'd eventually have ascended to heaven. As it is you're going to bring in someone new, in whom you can't afford to invest, and who will probably repeat all the mistakes Danny Searle has now learnt from, but can't apply as he is now out of a job.<br />
<br />
The storyline I'm waiting for is Chairman Pulled Down by Supporters, Thrown Into Harbour / River / Sea / Lake / Swimming Pool / Reservoir .......<br />
<br />
Isn't it enough to be a crap chairman? Is the full-on hypocrisy really necessary?<br />
<br />
It's like those pre-loved ads, "Lovely pony, sad sale, entire family distraught, good home only." Truth is it tried to eat one of the children!]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Aldershot's Chairman went for the full hagiography on Danny Searle and his family, straight after sacking him and probably ruining his life.<br />
<br />
Mate, if he's that good all you had to do was wait and you'd eventually have ascended to heaven. As it is you're going to bring in someone new, in whom you can't afford to invest, and who will probably repeat all the mistakes Danny Searle has now learnt from, but can't apply as he is now out of a job.<br />
<br />
The storyline I'm waiting for is Chairman Pulled Down by Supporters, Thrown Into Harbour / River / Sea / Lake / Swimming Pool / Reservoir .......<br />
<br />
Isn't it enough to be a crap chairman? Is the full-on hypocrisy really necessary?<br />
<br />
It's like those pre-loved ads, "Lovely pony, sad sale, entire family distraught, good home only." Truth is it tried to eat one of the children!]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[Gateshead MKII? Gateshead Baltic? A sad story!]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=8444</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 May 2019 16:00:03 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=83">Devongone</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=8444</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Most teams would be sipping cocktails on the beach in quiet satisfaction, having posted a ninth-placed finish and been on the cusp of the play-offs with the lowest budget in the division. But not Gateshead.<br />
<br />
Even before the club had completed their 46-game National League campaign, things were starting to unravel. With just one contracted player on the books, the owners announcing plans to move to a new home and fans plotting to form a new club, Gateshead's future remains uncertain.<br />
<br />
Alisha Henry was working as general manager at Gateshead, but was let go at the end of the season<br />
The final game of the season, Saturday's 2-0 defeat by Barrow, was the end of an era at Gateshead.<br />
<br />
Boss Ben Clark and his players applauded the fans - it proved to be an emotional goodbye, with the squad all out of contract this summer. Until the end of June when his deal expires, Scott Barrow remains the only player contracted to the club, while off-field members of staff were also released, including the football management team.<br />
<br />
At one stage, midfielder JJ O'Donnell was out of contract as a player but still employed as kitman before the club also severed those ties. "The game felt like a funeral," former general manager Alisha Henry told BBC Newcastle. "The players came off the pitch crying, it was such an anti-climax to such a terrific season on the pitch. I had a missed call on my phone from Hong Kong, and I texted the owner [Dr Ranjan Varghese] saying 'did you try to ring me?' "He said 'yes', I said 'was it important?' and he said 'a little bit'. "He then proceeded to tell me my services were not needed. My reply was that this was a really unprofessional way of doing things and I'll be seeking advice. The whole season has been erratic. You don't know what's happening day to day."<br />
<br />
<br />
Ben Clark was sacked by Gateshead at the end of the season after a ninth-place finish but amid the chaos, owner Varghese, advisor Joe Cala and board members Trevor Clark and Nigel Harrop are planning to continue running the club into next season.<br />
<br />
Varghese completed his takeover in July 2018 and, under the terms of his deal, maintained that he was required to lodge a £200,000 bond with the National League as an insurance against financial issues.<br />
<br />
The first cracks in the ranks began to emerge when it was revealed The Heed were under a transfer embargo in December, and then boss Steve Watson left in January, dropping down a division to move to York City. This preceded a string of off-the-field events which were in stark contrast to the on-field performance. <br />
Players Fraser Kerr and Scott Boden were sold in March, against the wishes of boss Clark, and general manager Mike Coulson also departed. Varghese put Gateshead up for sale, claiming he would sell the club for £1 once the season had been completed and his £200,000 bond was reimbursed. Gateshead were evicted from their office space at the International Stadium, following unpaid debt to Gateshead Council. They were still allowed to play games there.<br />
<br />
Varghese also said an agreement in principle had been completed with ex-Rochdale chairman Chris Dunphy.<br />
Players threatened to strike after player wages for March were not paid, which was aborted once payment was received later than scheduled. In a statement, Varghese has outlined his aims for the club's future, despite his unpopularity with fans, as shown by supporter protests and their decision to set up a new breakaway side.<br />
<br />
"Over the past 10 months, we have had to make some very tough decisions that weren't always popular and weren't made lightly, but they were crucial to ensuring the club's survival," the statement read.<br />
<br />
"These past few days in particular have been very difficult as we have said goodbye to several people who have played their own part in last season's success. But our sport has always been a fluid business with personnel moving in, sometimes during the season and, especially in our case in the fifth tier of the football pyramid, at the end of the annual campaign. On a regular basis, we read about football clubs facing uncertain futures due to mounting seven-figure debts and this is why, from the outset, I insisted on a plan to ultimately ensure that our operational costs never exceeded revenue. I am pleased to report that, going forward, we are close to being able to reveal that we will be able to roll out an operational budget for next season that meets this criteria."<br />
<br />
The entire Gateshead squad is out of contract, bar Scott Barrow's deal which expires in June. One of the first challenges for the Gateshead ownership group would be to recruit a new squad, given the mass exodus of players. There is also the concern about where the club might relocate to, after the issues in the relationship with the council this term.<br />
<br />
"In order to deliver this strategy we will be committed to developing local talent and taking exciting young prospects on loan from our English Football League and Premier League neighbours," the statement said. <br />
"I firmly believe we will deliver an attractive and successful brand of football with young, talented and local players hungry to grab their opportunity to prove themselves at the start of their professional careers. It has become more and more apparent to fans, players, officials, staff and sponsors that the International Stadium is not ideal and we have been working hard behind the scenes to identify an appropriate venue that could become our new home."<br />
<br />
Breakaway club - Gateshead MKII, Gateshead Baltic maybe?<br />
<br />
Fans group 'Gateshead Soul' have already done their bit to help the situation, paying to feed players for their away trips and making donations. With all hopes of a sale seemingly quashed, the fans have taken steps towards creating their own club, with a fundraising mission.<br />
<br />
It would be a case of following in the footsteps of other groups, such as those at AFC Wimbledon, Chester, AFC Telford United and fellow north-east club Darlington, in establishing a fan-led proposition on the back of off-field issues.<br />
<br />
"As previously mentioned, our only option as a group of fans that will ensure football survives in Gateshead under the Gateshead name is to form a new club together," the group's statement reads. "During Saturday's match, we received an overwhelming reaction from fans which supported the need of a new club being created; this was before the situation became even more urgent when Gateshead FC dispensed of all of its players and staff. Establishing a new club will be a tough project, however with the full backing of the community we will make this work."<br />
<br />
The aim of the new group is to accrue £50,000 through crowdfunding, similar to the way other groups such as at Hartlepool have sought investment.<br />
<br />
"Gateshead Soul has raised and will continue to raise money that would help fund a new club which will allow fans to be part owners," they continued. "Anyone who becomes a member of Gateshead Soul will play a huge part of a new fan-run club - our club. A number of key stakeholders in the community have already offered their support which would allow things to develop very quickly. Gateshead Council backs the people of Gateshead and to that aim they see the fans as the people of Gateshead. New clubs will be considered for step seven of the non-league pyramid [the 11th tier of English football], but can get special dispensation to start as high as step five [the ninth tier] in Northern League Division One. We would look to have a competitive budget which can be achieved through various income streams and sponsorship."]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Most teams would be sipping cocktails on the beach in quiet satisfaction, having posted a ninth-placed finish and been on the cusp of the play-offs with the lowest budget in the division. But not Gateshead.<br />
<br />
Even before the club had completed their 46-game National League campaign, things were starting to unravel. With just one contracted player on the books, the owners announcing plans to move to a new home and fans plotting to form a new club, Gateshead's future remains uncertain.<br />
<br />
Alisha Henry was working as general manager at Gateshead, but was let go at the end of the season<br />
The final game of the season, Saturday's 2-0 defeat by Barrow, was the end of an era at Gateshead.<br />
<br />
Boss Ben Clark and his players applauded the fans - it proved to be an emotional goodbye, with the squad all out of contract this summer. Until the end of June when his deal expires, Scott Barrow remains the only player contracted to the club, while off-field members of staff were also released, including the football management team.<br />
<br />
At one stage, midfielder JJ O'Donnell was out of contract as a player but still employed as kitman before the club also severed those ties. "The game felt like a funeral," former general manager Alisha Henry told BBC Newcastle. "The players came off the pitch crying, it was such an anti-climax to such a terrific season on the pitch. I had a missed call on my phone from Hong Kong, and I texted the owner [Dr Ranjan Varghese] saying 'did you try to ring me?' "He said 'yes', I said 'was it important?' and he said 'a little bit'. "He then proceeded to tell me my services were not needed. My reply was that this was a really unprofessional way of doing things and I'll be seeking advice. The whole season has been erratic. You don't know what's happening day to day."<br />
<br />
<br />
Ben Clark was sacked by Gateshead at the end of the season after a ninth-place finish but amid the chaos, owner Varghese, advisor Joe Cala and board members Trevor Clark and Nigel Harrop are planning to continue running the club into next season.<br />
<br />
Varghese completed his takeover in July 2018 and, under the terms of his deal, maintained that he was required to lodge a £200,000 bond with the National League as an insurance against financial issues.<br />
<br />
The first cracks in the ranks began to emerge when it was revealed The Heed were under a transfer embargo in December, and then boss Steve Watson left in January, dropping down a division to move to York City. This preceded a string of off-the-field events which were in stark contrast to the on-field performance. <br />
Players Fraser Kerr and Scott Boden were sold in March, against the wishes of boss Clark, and general manager Mike Coulson also departed. Varghese put Gateshead up for sale, claiming he would sell the club for £1 once the season had been completed and his £200,000 bond was reimbursed. Gateshead were evicted from their office space at the International Stadium, following unpaid debt to Gateshead Council. They were still allowed to play games there.<br />
<br />
Varghese also said an agreement in principle had been completed with ex-Rochdale chairman Chris Dunphy.<br />
Players threatened to strike after player wages for March were not paid, which was aborted once payment was received later than scheduled. In a statement, Varghese has outlined his aims for the club's future, despite his unpopularity with fans, as shown by supporter protests and their decision to set up a new breakaway side.<br />
<br />
"Over the past 10 months, we have had to make some very tough decisions that weren't always popular and weren't made lightly, but they were crucial to ensuring the club's survival," the statement read.<br />
<br />
"These past few days in particular have been very difficult as we have said goodbye to several people who have played their own part in last season's success. But our sport has always been a fluid business with personnel moving in, sometimes during the season and, especially in our case in the fifth tier of the football pyramid, at the end of the annual campaign. On a regular basis, we read about football clubs facing uncertain futures due to mounting seven-figure debts and this is why, from the outset, I insisted on a plan to ultimately ensure that our operational costs never exceeded revenue. I am pleased to report that, going forward, we are close to being able to reveal that we will be able to roll out an operational budget for next season that meets this criteria."<br />
<br />
The entire Gateshead squad is out of contract, bar Scott Barrow's deal which expires in June. One of the first challenges for the Gateshead ownership group would be to recruit a new squad, given the mass exodus of players. There is also the concern about where the club might relocate to, after the issues in the relationship with the council this term.<br />
<br />
"In order to deliver this strategy we will be committed to developing local talent and taking exciting young prospects on loan from our English Football League and Premier League neighbours," the statement said. <br />
"I firmly believe we will deliver an attractive and successful brand of football with young, talented and local players hungry to grab their opportunity to prove themselves at the start of their professional careers. It has become more and more apparent to fans, players, officials, staff and sponsors that the International Stadium is not ideal and we have been working hard behind the scenes to identify an appropriate venue that could become our new home."<br />
<br />
Breakaway club - Gateshead MKII, Gateshead Baltic maybe?<br />
<br />
Fans group 'Gateshead Soul' have already done their bit to help the situation, paying to feed players for their away trips and making donations. With all hopes of a sale seemingly quashed, the fans have taken steps towards creating their own club, with a fundraising mission.<br />
<br />
It would be a case of following in the footsteps of other groups, such as those at AFC Wimbledon, Chester, AFC Telford United and fellow north-east club Darlington, in establishing a fan-led proposition on the back of off-field issues.<br />
<br />
"As previously mentioned, our only option as a group of fans that will ensure football survives in Gateshead under the Gateshead name is to form a new club together," the group's statement reads. "During Saturday's match, we received an overwhelming reaction from fans which supported the need of a new club being created; this was before the situation became even more urgent when Gateshead FC dispensed of all of its players and staff. Establishing a new club will be a tough project, however with the full backing of the community we will make this work."<br />
<br />
The aim of the new group is to accrue £50,000 through crowdfunding, similar to the way other groups such as at Hartlepool have sought investment.<br />
<br />
"Gateshead Soul has raised and will continue to raise money that would help fund a new club which will allow fans to be part owners," they continued. "Anyone who becomes a member of Gateshead Soul will play a huge part of a new fan-run club - our club. A number of key stakeholders in the community have already offered their support which would allow things to develop very quickly. Gateshead Council backs the people of Gateshead and to that aim they see the fans as the people of Gateshead. New clubs will be considered for step seven of the non-league pyramid [the 11th tier of English football], but can get special dispensation to start as high as step five [the ninth tier] in Northern League Division One. We would look to have a competitive budget which can be achieved through various income streams and sponsorship."]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Take over]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=7222</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jul 2018 11:15:35 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=83">Devongone</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=7222</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Saved, taken over by the Far East.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Saved, taken over by the Far East.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Part-time ......]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=6964</link>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 Jun 2018 16:04:49 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=83">Devongone</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=6964</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Gateshead will move to a part-time set-up while new ownership is sought, after potential investors withdrew following discussions with the National League.<br />
<br />
The would-be buyers "failed to satisfy various aspects of the competition's requirements", a club statement said.<br />
<br />
Current owners Richard and Julie Bennett will continue but the football operation will no longer run on a full-time basis.<br />
<br />
Richard Bennett said the interested party "withheld important information".<br />
<br />
"First and foremost in our minds is the long-term future of the club and Julie and I have decided to continue our ownership until such time as a credible buyer can be found," Bennett said.<br />
<br />
"Someone who, in our opinion, is right for the club."<br />
<br />
The husband and wife duo took over from Graham Wood in May 2015, with the aim of returning The Heed to the Football League for the first time since 1960.<br />
<br />
They maintained the club's full-time status, but promotion has eluded them as did an FA Trophy final this past season after Bromley beat them in the last four.<br />
<br />
"We simply cannot afford to continue running the club on a full-time basis in the meantime and regrettably cuts in all areas of expenditure are a necessity," Bennett continued.<br />
<br />
"Naturally, we will look to remain competitive at the highest level of non-league football but we'll need to become one of a growing number of part-time clubs in the national division."]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Gateshead will move to a part-time set-up while new ownership is sought, after potential investors withdrew following discussions with the National League.<br />
<br />
The would-be buyers "failed to satisfy various aspects of the competition's requirements", a club statement said.<br />
<br />
Current owners Richard and Julie Bennett will continue but the football operation will no longer run on a full-time basis.<br />
<br />
Richard Bennett said the interested party "withheld important information".<br />
<br />
"First and foremost in our minds is the long-term future of the club and Julie and I have decided to continue our ownership until such time as a credible buyer can be found," Bennett said.<br />
<br />
"Someone who, in our opinion, is right for the club."<br />
<br />
The husband and wife duo took over from Graham Wood in May 2015, with the aim of returning The Heed to the Football League for the first time since 1960.<br />
<br />
They maintained the club's full-time status, but promotion has eluded them as did an FA Trophy final this past season after Bromley beat them in the last four.<br />
<br />
"We simply cannot afford to continue running the club on a full-time basis in the meantime and regrettably cuts in all areas of expenditure are a necessity," Bennett continued.<br />
<br />
"Naturally, we will look to remain competitive at the highest level of non-league football but we'll need to become one of a growing number of part-time clubs in the national division."]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Summer Bargain]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=6795</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2018 15:05:55 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=83">Devongone</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=6795</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Gateshead were put on the market by their owners three weeks before the end of the season. Four parties are believed currently to be in talks with the club.<br />
<br />
All but two players' contracts are up. Four have already jumped ship including Russ Penn, Wes York and Jordan Burrow (formerly of Chesterfield) who are all off to York.<br />
<br />
Richard and Julie Bennett are adamant they will not continue to fund the club beyond the end of June after three years in charge.<br />
<br />
Though Gateshead are debt free and on the market for just £1, the National League AGM and the deadline for the submission of budgets to the league management committee both occur in June too.<br />
<br />
Worst case scenarios are that without a buyer the club could go into liquidation or opt for voluntary relegation, but the owners remain confident that a sale will go through.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Gateshead were put on the market by their owners three weeks before the end of the season. Four parties are believed currently to be in talks with the club.<br />
<br />
All but two players' contracts are up. Four have already jumped ship including Russ Penn, Wes York and Jordan Burrow (formerly of Chesterfield) who are all off to York.<br />
<br />
Richard and Julie Bennett are adamant they will not continue to fund the club beyond the end of June after three years in charge.<br />
<br />
Though Gateshead are debt free and on the market for just £1, the National League AGM and the deadline for the submission of budgets to the league management committee both occur in June too.<br />
<br />
Worst case scenarios are that without a buyer the club could go into liquidation or opt for voluntary relegation, but the owners remain confident that a sale will go through.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[No more Fog on the Tyne]]></title>
			<link>https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=5368</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 May 2017 16:16:21 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/member.php?action=profile&uid=83">Devongone</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=5368</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Manager Neil Aspin has retained 14 players, and released five in Mitch Brundle, Toby Ajala, Nick Cassidy, Shaun MacDonald and Jack Elliott. Discussions are in progress to offer new deals to JJ O'Donnell, George Smith, Liam Hogan and Gus Mafuta for next season but the fourteen currently retained are:-<br />
<br />
James Montgomery, James Bolton, Manny Smith, Jamal Fyfield, Wes York, Danny Johnson, Danny Burns, Dan Hanford, Jordan Burrow, Macaulay Langstaff, Nyal Bell, Luke Hannant, Paddy McLaughlin and Tom White.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Manager Neil Aspin has retained 14 players, and released five in Mitch Brundle, Toby Ajala, Nick Cassidy, Shaun MacDonald and Jack Elliott. Discussions are in progress to offer new deals to JJ O'Donnell, George Smith, Liam Hogan and Gus Mafuta for next season but the fourteen currently retained are:-<br />
<br />
James Montgomery, James Bolton, Manny Smith, Jamal Fyfield, Wes York, Danny Johnson, Danny Burns, Dan Hanford, Jordan Burrow, Macaulay Langstaff, Nyal Bell, Luke Hannant, Paddy McLaughlin and Tom White.]]></content:encoded>
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