On Tuesday night, the Blues saw defeat for the first time so far in our pre-season campaign, as a solitary goal from Brentwood Town at The Football Pad was enough to earn them the victory. On Saturday, the Blues took a two goal lead into the interval at the Maurice Rebak Stadium against National League opposition, thanks to goals from Michael O'Donoghue after 4 minutes and an Ogo Obi penalty. In the second half, Aldershot Town made a host of changes and forced their way back into the game, with the final score ending 2-2. Our thanks to both teams for the fixtures and best of luck for their upcoming season.
There is no midweek pre-season fixture this week, as Ahmet Rifat's men will be on the training pitch in preparation for the season ahead. Our next fixture will instead be on Saturday 27th, with a trip to local neighbours Hadley FC. Hadley play their football in the Southern League Central division (Step 4) and last season finished 8th, just 4 points off the playoffs. Our last two pre-season matches at Hadley have ended in draws (1-1 in 2023 and 2-2 in 2022) so it promises to be another close contest as the season draws ever closer.
At the Aldershot game, we announced our two latest signings. First up was 23-year old defender Evangelos Empochontsif, who counts Canvey Island, Rushden & Diamonds and Walthamstow among his previous clubs, while also being taken on trial by Championship side Middlesbrough as a teenager. Evangelos is a talented left-sided defender and we are pleased to have him on board.
Khristopher Oti was our second Saturday signing, adding extra firepower to Ahmet Rifat's frontline. The 25-year old striker ended the 2023/24 season at Witham Town in the Isthmian North division where he netted 4 goals in 11 appearances. Prior to this, he had a spell with St Ives Town, netting double figures there after moving from Corby Town where he had 9 goals in 16 appearances. A graduate of the Colchester United academy, Oti has also achieved promotion from Isthmian South East with Whitehawk as well as playing for National League North side Brackley Town. Welcome Khristopher!
Both new signings are available for sponsorship - check out which players are still available to be sponsored here. Our new kits, are now available for pre-order and selling fast, ready for collection ahead of the new season. Meanwhile there is still time to get your early bird season ticket (until 31st July) to ensure you're there to see all of our exciting new recruits in action!
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