Tuesday, February 19, 2008

THE MEN OF AFC SUDBURY SINCE THE START OF THE CLUB AND ALL TIME APPEARANCES AND GOAL SCORERS

MEN OF AFC SUDBURY


Since AFC Sudbury was formed on 1st June 1999 the men below have been connected with either the management or playing in the first team in competitive matches. (Where the apps subs and goals are not completed it indicates the player is still with the club.)


Paul Abrahams
A centre forward who played over 200 league games for Colchester United, and Brentford before going non league with teams such as Chesham Utd, Kettering Town, Canvey Island, Heybridge Swifts and Wivenhoe Town. Signed from Wivenhoe at the start of the 2005/06 season and made his debut against Lewes on 16th July 2005, and played throughout the 2005/06 season. His contract saw him with the club in season 2006/07 and he was appointed joint Vice-Captain. A series of niggling injuries restricted his appearances at the start of the season, and on 25th November 2006, his contract was terminated by mutual consent. On the opening day of the 2007/08 Ridgeons League season, 11th August 2007 he appeared for Halstead Town and scored.
He remained with them until the end of the season.

Apps 55 Subs 11 Goals 14


Stuart Alston
A sixteen year old forward that joined the reserve side at the start of the 2004/05 season, coming from youth football. He started just one Eastern Floodlight League game during that season and left midway through it. He played for Long Melford in 2005/06 and 2006/07. At the start of the 2007/08 season he was still with the Stoneylands club.

Apps 1 Subs 0 Goals 0


Wayne Anderson
A midfielder who arrived at the club from Kings Lynn in December 2002, a tough tackling no nonsense type of player. He played his last game for the club in the F.A. Vase final of 2002/03. He signed for Wisbech Town at the start of season 2003/04, but in October 2003 re-signed for Kings Lynn. After suffering a serious knee injury he signed for Downham Town at the start of the 2005/06 season. At the start of 2006/07 he was with Fakenham Town but towards the end of December 2006 he returned to Downham Town. He was still with the Norfolk club in season 2007/08. On 23rd June 2008 he was appointed manager of Downham Town.

Apps 26 Subs 0 Goals 2


Erdem Artun
A Turkish/English defensive player born 11th November 1982 in London, he joined Ipswich Town as a youth player in 1999. He went on loan to Doncaster Rovers in September and October 2002 where he played one League game and from September 2003 to February 2004 he joined Darlington. He played for Woodbridge Town and then joined Heybridge Swifts in the summer of 2005. In the latter part of 2006 he played on loan at Wivenhoe Town. He joined AFC from Heybridge in June 2007. He was named as substitute in the league first game of the season on 18th August 2007 but never got on. On 20th August he was released from his contract due to changes in his work commitments.

Apps 0 Subs 1 Goals 0


Chris Bacon
A strong, well built centre forward who started his career with Kings Lynn, before having season with Grantham Town. He had spells with Mildenhall Town and finished the 2006/07 season with Dereham Town. He went Australia where he played for Noosa Lions before returning to England just prior to the start of the 2007/08 season. He made his AFC debut as trialist at Leiston on 21st July 2007, before signing a one year deal with the club on 23rd July. 'Bakes' scored on his league debut against Aveley on 18th August 2007. At the end of the season he left and on 1st June 2008 signed for Mildenhall Town.

Apps 33 Subs 5 Goals 6


Sam Banya
A strong, well built black striker, who started the 2001/02 season at the club, and scored 50 goals in 55 games. Had trials with Barnet and Bristol Rovers through that season but nothing came of them. Left the club at start of season 2002/03 and went to Maldon Town but returned in September 2002. In season 2003/04 his appearances were mainly from the bench, but he continued to score goals, as he did in 2004/05. At the end of season 2004/05 he was released from the club and in early June 2005 signed for Needham Market. At the end of August 2005 he left Needham and signed for Diss Town, but after being suspended early in the season he joined Ipswich Wanderers on 2nd December 2005. At the end of March 2006 when goals were in short supply at AFC he was signed yet again and scored on his first game back at Soham. He went on to score thirteen times in twelve games until the end of the season. He was not retained by the new manager and at the start of the 2006/07 season he signed yet again for Ipswich Wanderers but a knee injury kept him out for some time. He had an operation on his knee in October 2006, but came back to play before Christmas. At the start of the 2007/08 pre-season he turned out for Whitton United and signed for them in August 2007.

Apps 228 Subs12 Goals 135


Daniel Barber
A young defender, who came in January 2001, started only two games before being released and going back to Maldon Town. In 2002/03 he was playing for Heybridge Swifts and continued with them in 2003/04 and was still there in season 2004/05 and 2005/06 and 2006/07. He was still with the Scraley Road club at the start of the 2007/08 season, but on 18th February 2008 he left and signed for Boreham Wood FC.

Apps 3 Subs 2 Goals 0


Phil Battell
A defender who started his career with Sudbury Town and left for Tiptree in 1999 and played for them in the 2001/02 F.A. Vase Final. He then joined Long Melford for a couple of seasons before signing for AFC at the start of the 2005/06 season mainly to play in the Reserves. On 7th December he was named on the bench for the first team but did not get on, however on 17th December he started the game at Kings Lynn Reserves. He re-signed for the club at the start of the 2006/07 season, but played only one first team game, however he was regular in the reserve side. At the start of the 2007/08 he was still at the club, but left in early November 2007 to join Halstead Town.

Apps 9 Subs 9 Goals 0


Michael Bavester
A goalkeeper signed in November 1999 when regular ‘keeper Dave Walton was injured, played seven times before returning to West Wratting. He later returned to Jewson League football with Tiptree United. In June 2004 ‘Bavvy’ returned to his home town team of Haverhill Rovers. He announced his retirement from playing towards the end of season 2005/06, but stated he would become the goalkeeping coach at the club. He was still there at the start of the 2006/07 season, and played a first team game in January 2007.

Apps 7 Subs 0 Goals 0


Ryan Bedingfield
A young goalkeeper only 17 year of age signed on when Nathan Munson could not play and the other two keepers at the club were both injured. He usually played for Brantham Athletic in the Suffolk and Ipswich League, but made his debut against Wivenhoe Town on 13th March 2007 and did well. In pre-season 2007/08 he played for AFC again, but signed for Ridgeons League side Stanway Rovers, however by November 2007 he was back at Brantham.

Apps 1 Subs 0 Goals 0


Gary Bennett
A diminutive striker, who oozed class played in the club’s first game, had previously played professionally for Colchester United and Chelmsford to who he was later transferred to for £3000 in February 2000. ‘Benno’ was re-signed at the start of the 2001/02 season for £1500, a good bit of business as he continued to score many classy goals. He remained at the club in season 2002/03, when he won the Player’s Player of the Year award and in 2003/04 when he won the leading Goal Scorer award. He won the same award the following season. Played in all three Vase finals, at the end of season 2004/05 he left the club. In early June 2005 he signed for Witham Town and played for the through the 2005/06 season when they won Ryman Division Two and were promoted to Ryman Division One North. Early in October 2006 he along with many of the senior players left the club. On the 23rd October 2006 he signed as player/assistant manager at Ipswich Wanderers. He signed for Ridgeons First Division side Tiptree United on 9th August 2007, he played only one game and then left.

Apps 243 Subs 10 Goals 172


Steve Benson
An East Anglian Cup tie at Long Melford in February 2003 just prior to an FA Vase game meant a call for the youngster who had played mainly for the club’s under 18’s. A defensive player, at the start of the 2003/04 season he joined Cornard United. Did not re-sign in 2004/05 and was at university in Birmingham. At the start of 2006/07 he signed for Sudbury Athletic and played against AFC Reserves in a pre-season friendly, but still at university. At the start of the 2007/08 season he was back having graduated and playing for Sudbury Athletic again.

Apps 1 Subs 0 Goals 0


Darren Bethell
Darren started his career with his local side West Bergholt United in the Essex & Suffolk Border League before he joined Cornard Utd. In December 2001 he played for Norwich City Res after trials with both Everton and Cambridge Utd. In April 2002 he played for Charlton Res and at the start of 2002/03 he did pre-season training with them. In September 2002 he went for trials with both Preston and Oxford. In December 2002 he was bought by Wivenhoe but Cornard re-signed him in October 2003. In season 2004/05 at Cornard he was their leading marksman with 24 goals from 35 games. Signed by AFC in June 2005 on a two year contract and made his debut on 16th July 2005. He played for AFC during season 2005/06 mainly coming on from the bench. In early March 2006 he was loaned out to Wivenhoe Town for the rest of the season. He came back to AFC at the start of the 2006/07 season when the new manager was in place and continued playing for AFC. After missing a number of games through injury he made a comeback at the start of February 2007 but damaged his knee cartilage and had an operation on it on 12th March. He played a couple of times in April 2007 but suffered further problems that required more surgery. The surgery was re-done but he never appeared for pre-season training at the start of the 2007/08 season. On 18th August 2007 he was in the Halstead Town squad for an F.A. Cup tie. Wivenhoe Town re-signed him on 7th December 2007. Towards the end of January 2008 he was transfer listed by the Essex club, and on 29th February he signed once again for AFC. He played until the end of the season when in June 2008 he signed for Brantham Athletic.

Apps 69 Subs 16 Goals 14


Paul Betson
Slightly built wide man who had previously been with Braintree Town, ‘Betsy’ signed at the start of 1999/2000 season and was a substitute in the club’s very first game. He was the winner of the First Team Manager’s Player of the Year 2000/01. Played consistently in seasons 2001/02, 2002/03, 2003/04, 2004/05 and 2005/06. He was retained by the new manager at the start of season 2006/07, but on 20th October 2006 he was transfer listed when he was the club's leading appearance maker. On 6th December 2006 he signed for Ipswich Wanderers and played throughout the 2006/07 season and played through the 2006/07 season for them. He did not start the 2007/08 season with a club as he awaited a knee operation, which he had in October 2007. In November 2007 he was playing Sunday League football in Bury for Bennett Arms. At Christmas time 2007 he signed for Felixstowe and Walton United and was an unused substitute on Boxing Day.

Apps 376 Subs 17 Goals 45


Marcus Bier
A goalkeeper, who had played for Mark Morsley at Needham Market, was signed on 20th July 2006 as cover for the position. Some of his previous clubs included Bury Town, Sudbury Town Reserves and Stowmarket Town. He played a number of pre-season friendlies for AFC and was then loaned out to Mistley United in the Essex and Suffolk Border League. On 13th January 2007, Nathan Munson reported sick and with the Reserve keeper Barry Simpson injured, he was recalled and made his debut against Waltham Forest. At the start of the 2007/08 season he was still playing for Mistley United.

Apps 1 Subs 0 Goals 0


John Bishop
Strong, tall central defender, previously with Sudbury Town, Braintree Town and Chelmsford City was signed on a cold night at Witham in December 2001. At the start of season 2003/04 ‘Bish’ was made vice-captain of the side. ‘Bish’s’ last game for the club was the final of the Suffolk Premier Cup at Portman Road Ipswich on 21st May 2004 when he was Captain for the night. John returned to his roots of Essex Intermediate Football and signed for Sandon Royals for season 2004/05 and even scored in his first pre-season friendly. During season 2007/08 he was playing for Writtle Vets.

Apps 102 Subs 20 Goals 12


Gary Bloomfield
A tall central defender who played in the Sudbury area from a young age joined from Sudbury Athletic at the start of 2004/05 to play in the reserve side. He played a couple of Eastern Floodlight League games during that season, but left at the end of it, having won the Reserve Team Players Player of the Year. He joined Bures United and played for them in 2005/06 and 2006/07. In season 2007/08 he was playing for Hadleigh United Reserves.

Apps 2 Subs 0 Goals 0


Stuart Boardley
Born in Ipswich on 14th February 1985, he joined Ipswich Town as a youth player, but he was involved in a car crash that hampered his progress and was released in May 2004, although he did play in a pre-season game in July 2004 at Barnet for an Ipswich Town X1. He joined Torquay United and made his debut for them in August of that year and made eight more appearances before being released. He returned to East Anglia and signed for Long Melford in the summer of 2005 before joining Leiston in November 2005. A defender he signed for AFC in June 2007 and made his league debut on 18th August 2007 he played throughout the 2007/08 season, but left at the end of it. 'Boards' re-signed for Leiston on a two year contract on 16th June 2008.

Apps 50 Subs 0 Goals 9


Craig Boon
A former Sudbury Town youth team player, was with Sudbury Wanderers before the club was formed. He played regularly in goal for AFC Reserves and very occasionally for the first team when regular custodians were injured. ‘Booner’ was the Club’s Young Player of the Year in season 1999/00. Got injured in the Border League Cup Final of 2003/04 and at the start of season 2004/05 he did not sign for the club. He did not play for anyone in 2005/06 and was still not playing at the start of 2006/07. In June 2007 he had no intention of playing football again due to the injury to his knee. However he was playing cricket for Lavenham.

Apps 3 Subs 9 Goals 0


Phil Boyland
He was a player with a number of clubs including Bury Town, Braintree Town and appeared in Sudbury Town’s F.A. Vase side of 1989. He went onto become manager at Braintree Town, Bury Town and Harwich & Parkeston before taking a backseat from football. When his son Pip went to Needham Market he went to watch but was eventually persuaded to become part of the management team. He came to AFC with manager Mark Morsley as his assistant at the start of the 2006/07 season. He decided to resign from his position at the end of the season and left the club.


Pip Boyland
A young defender whose real name is Phillip, left Harwich and Parkeston during the 2003/04 season and went to play at Needham Market. There he played under AFC manager Mark Morsley. At the start of the 2006/07 season he came to AFC with his previous manager. He is the son of former Sudbury Town player and AFC assistant manger Phil Boyland. On 18th January 2007 he signed a contract extension until the end of the 2007/08 season. At the end of the 2006/07 season he was selected for a FA X1 but the notification came too late for him to play. At the end of the 2006/07 he was placed on the transfer list, he was then released from his contract and signed for Leiston at the start of August 2007.

Apps 47 Subs 11 Goals 0


Tommy Bradlaugh
At the start of the 2006/07 season this midfield youngster was signed by new manager Mark Morsley from Suffolk and Ipswich league side Ransomes Sports. He started several games bur sustained a knee injury and in November 2006 was loaned out to Ridgeons Premier League side Needham Market to get some match fitness. On the 21st of December he was recalled from that loan. On the 8th January 2007 he was released from his contract with AFC and on 11th January he signed for Diss Town. Towards the end of February 2007 he transferred his SIL registration from Ransomes Sports to Ipswich Athletic and played for them. At the start of the 2007/08 season he was still with them.

Apps 4 Subs 9 Goals 0


Gavin Brightwell
A very raw youngster who joined the reserves in season 2004/05 from Long Melford Under 18’s and was in and out of the side. He played in two Eastern Floodlight League games during that season, and stayed with the club until the end of the 2005/06 season. During that time he spend time playing for Bures United, at the start of the 2006/07 season he left and joined Hadleigh United playing there in their reserve side. In early November 2007 he joined Long Melford Reserves,

Apps 2 Subs 0 Goals 0


Michael Brothers
A wide midfield player who signed for the club on 12th January 2007 from Wivenhoe Town. He started with Colchester United and then played for Harwich & Parkeston, before joining Needham Market in season 2005/06 where Mark Morsley was the manager. He left there to join Maldon Town, but at the start of the 2006/07 was with Wivenhoe Town and during the early part of the season he played several games on loan back at Harwich & Parkeston, before joining AFC. Made his debut against Waltham Forest on 13th January 2007 as a substitute, however at the end of the season he was placed on the transfer list. He was released from his contract and on 21st July 2007 he played in pre-season game for AFC Hornchurch, and later signed for the club. In the middle of September 2007 he left and signed for Leiston,, but on 19th November he decided to go back to Wivenhoe Town. On 8th February 2008 Wivenhoe announced he had gone back to AFC Hornchurch, and on 3rd May he played again for Leiston. Brantham Athletic announced on 11th June 2008 they had signed him for the 2008/09 season.

Apps 25 Subs 1 Goals 3

Tony Bruce
A tall midfield player that came to play reserve team football, having been with Sudbury Athletic, Cornard United and Long Melford previously. He played in two Eastern Floodlight games in season 2004/05, scoring a goal in a game at Saffron Walden Town. He played until the end of the 2005/06 and played in the winning Suffolk Junior Cup side of April 2006 at Portman Road then stopped playing.

Apps 2 Subs 0 Goals 1


Neil Calver
He was signed by Gary Harvey at the start of season 2003/04, a tenacious midfield player previously with Woodbridge Town and Ipswich Athletic. In November 2003 ‘Calvs’ was rewarded by signing a new contract until the end of the 2004/05 season. He was unfortunate to get sent off in the F.A. Vase Final of 2003/04 against Winchester City. Played in the 2004/05 final and scored from the spot in the 3-2 defeat. He played throughout 2005/06 picking an enormous amount of yellow cards on the way and continued on in season 2006/07 with the club. On 11th January 2007 he signed a contract extension until the end of the 2007/08 season and was also appointed the club’s Vice captain. During the 2006/07 season picked up a record 23 yellow cards, the most in the country. He was awarded the Goal of the Season award for 2006/07 for his goal at home against Ramsgate in the F.A. Trophy. He remained with the club in 2007/08 at the start of the 2007/08 season. In the middle of October 2007 he asked to be placed on the transfer list and the request was granted. On 25th October he was sold for an undisclosed fee to Felixstowe and Walton United.

Apps 205 Subs 17 Goals 46


Michael Cheetham
Midfield player who joined on amalgamation, from Sudbury Town ‘Cheets’ had played professionally with Ipswich Town( 4 Apps), Cambridge United (£50,000 in 1990 132 Apps 22 goals) and Chesterfield (free transfer 1994, 5 Apps) and Colchester United (37 Apps 3 goals). Winner of the First Team Player’s Player of the Year in 1999/00. He became assistant manager during season 2001/02 but declined the full job during 2002/03. Made coach to new manager Gary Harvey at the start of season 2003/04 and in December 2003 signed a new contract to keep him at the club until the end of the 2004/05 season. He continued in his role as coach through season 2005/06 making only one substitute appearance along the way despite being named numerous times as a substitute. In April 2006 he announced that along with manager Gary Harvey he would not continue in season 2006/07. He was awarded a testimonial game at the start of 2006/07 and Colchester United played at King's Marsh in the game in July 2006, and he made a brief appearance in it before bowing out.

Apps 204 Subs 96 Goals 27


Andrew Claydon
He was a chef by trade when he joined the club having previously played for Newmarket Town. ‘Porky’ signed at the start of season 2000/01 and went on to score 32 goals that term. Had a trial at Norwich City and was watched on a number of times by various Football League clubs as he continued to net. He won the Supporters Player of the Year in 2002/03 and in December 2003 signed a new contract to keep him at the club until the end of the 2004/05 season. In October 2004 had to have keyhole surgery to his knee keeping out for eight weeks, but came back and signed an extension to his contract to the end of 2005/06. In December 2005 he became a postal worker in Newmarket. He was captured on contract by the new manager at the start of the 2006/07 season and played on for the club. On 13th February 2007 he signed a contract to keep him at the club until the end of the 2007/08 season. There was change of plan at the end of the 2006/07 season and on the 4th June 2007 he was placed on transfer list. On 8th June he had signed for Mildenhall Town in the Ridgeons Premier League on a two year contract. On 28th January 2008 the Ridgeons League bulletin stated he was available for transfer. He was subsequently transferred to Felixstowe and Walton United on 7th February.

Apps 360 Subs 12 Goals 160


Matty Clements
The pacy front runner was signed by manager Morsley on 12th November 2007 from Mildenhall Town on a contract until the end of the 2007/08 season. He previously was with Needham Market in 2006/07 and prior to that Diss Town, Cambridge United, Cambridge City and Chatteris Town. On 11th May 2008 he announced via the AFC website that he was retiring.

Apps 24 Subs 1 Goals 4


Richard Codling
Central defender who was played for Sudbury Wanderers before the club was formed in 1999, during first season left to go to Clacton Town but soon returned. ‘Codders’ had his career cut short with serious knee injury. In October 2003 he had his knee operated on and was expected not to be able to work for a year. In July 2005 he was working as a self employed bricklayer.

Apps 35 Sub 1 Goals 0


Stephen Coles
Chunky midfield player signed in April 2002 from East Bergholt mainly as cover for the many midweek games. He was an American Footballer for Ipswich Cardinals. He played only two games in season 2002/03 while he was still at East Bergholt.

Apps 3 Sub 1 Goals 0


Ricky Cornish
A left sided defender who started the 2000/01 season after joining from Bury Town had previously played for Cornard United and Sudbury Wanderers and before that in Norway, Aldershot, Halstead Town and Chelmsford City. He stayed until the following year when he left to join Diss Town. In the middle of June 2005 he signed for Mildenhall Town and on 16th August was appointed assistant manager. He played for the Recway club through 2005/06 but at the end of the season left. He returned to his former club Diss Town as a player at the start of the 2006/07 season. On the 1st November 2006 he was appointed assistant manager at the club. Towards the end of January 2007 he was reported to have left Diss and signed as a player for Yaxley in the UCL. On 6th March 2007 he was due to manage Diss for their game on 10th March. At the start of the 2007/08 season he was back at Diss, but on 22nd November 2007 he was reported as having been released by the club. In the middle of December 2007 he signed for Newmarket Town, but on 23rd January 2008 he had left for Essex Senior League side Burnham Ramblers. At the start of the 2008/09 he had re-joined Newmarket Town.

Apps 69 Subs 4 Goals 9


Chris Cowan
A youngster who played for the Reserves in 2005/06 and was named as a substitute for the first team in the middle of October 2006 but he did not get on the pitch. He made his debut as a substitute at Aveley on 11th November 2007. His first senior start was away at Staines Town in the Ryman League Cup on 5th December 2006. He signed again for the club in 2007/08, but on 15th November 2007 he signed for Wivenhoe Town. On 6th February 2008 he joined Hadleigh United on loan until 4th April, however on 26th March he was recalled to Wivenhoe. On 2nd June 2008 he was released from his contract with the Essex club.


Apps 3 Subs 11 Goals 0


Stuart Crawford
A left footed defender who was a YTS player at Lincoln City, joined at the start of season 2002/03, played only a few games before leaving to go to Hadleigh United. At the start of season 2003/04 he joined Long Melford and played in the Suffolk Senior Cup Final of that season. In September 2004 he left Long Melford joining Needham Market. At the start of the 20005/06 season he was signed by Cornard United, but before he played a league game was rumoured to be transferring to Felixstowe and Walton United, but then signed for Walsham-le-Willows. He stayed with Walsham through the 20-5/06 season but at the start of the 2006/07 campaign he was Whitton United as their captain. In February 2007 he was rumoured to have stopped playing football, however at the start of the 2007/08 season he was back at Whitton. In November 2007 he had a knee operation that had prevented him playing for the rest of the 2007/08 season.

Apps 8 Subs 7 Goals 1


Daniel Cunningham
An eighteen year old midfielder signed from Bury Town on 13th November 2006 on a contract until the end of the 2007/08 season, this was after the club were found to have made an illegal approach for him. He played for West Suffolk College and all the Bury teams before joining AFC and had trials in 2006 with both Morecambe and Mansfield Town. He continued at AFC in the 2007/08 season, however on 21st November 2007 he was loaned to Leiston in the Ridgeons Premier League. On 17th December 2007 he was sold to Leiston for an undisclosed fee.

Apps 38 Subs 4 Goals 9


David Daniels
This strong running 21 year old midfielder signed for AFC on loan from Cambridge United on 10th March 2006 for the rest of the season, having played for Hitchin Town earlier in the season on loan. He however played his last game for AFC against Cambridge City Reserves on 29th March, and the next day was released from his contract at Cambridge United and signed for Cambridge City. This turned out to be incorrect as he was on loan at AFC and could not do so. He however did eventually sign for Cambridge City, but at the start of the 2006/07 season he signed for Mildenhall Town. At the end of August 2006 he was loaned to Bedford Town. On 13th July 2007 he signed for Ridgeons Division One side Ely City.

Apps 3 Subs 0 Goals 1


Steve Day
A forward player, who was with Wanderers before amalgamation, became disillusioned and went to Cornard United for a short time before returning. At start of season 2002/03 decided that he would concentrate on playing Border League football and was captain of the reserves although playing the occasional first team game when called upon. He won the Reserve Team Manager’s Player of the Year award in 2002/03. Recalled to the first team squad for season 2003/04 and played a large number of times. He came on as a substitute in the last game of the season the Suffolk Premier Cup Final at Portman Road, Ipswich and announced his retirement after the match. He was again the Reserve Team Manager’s Player of the year for 2003/04.His retirement turned out to be short lived as he came back at the start of season 2004/05 to star for the reserve team once again. In September 2004 was back in the first team after a spate of injuries. In January 2005 was awarded a testimonial by the club. He was left out of the F.A. Vase final squad in May 2005. On 19th July 2005 he was awarded a testimonial game against West Ham and a crowd of 516 saw AFC lose 5-1. He continued playing for the Reserves in 2005/06 and led the side to the final of the Suffolk Junior Cup at Portman Road Ipswich in April 2006. He also led the side to the play off final between the winners of the Ridgeons Reserve League South and North where they lost to Felixstowe and Walton United Reserves. At the start of the 2006/07 season despite threatening not to play he signed on and played, and was the leading scorer in the Reserves. At the end of the season he won the Managers Player of the Year award and also the Reserves Top Goal Scorer award. The popular player called time of his playing career at the start of the 2007/08 season, but continued in football coaching youngsters at Long Melford. However on 11th November 2007 Long Melford announced that he had signed to play for them, which he did, however he never played after December 2007 and went into retirement again.

Apps 178 Subs 35 Goals 53


Brian Devereux
He was a fast raiding front runner who was with Sudbury Wanderers before joining AFC in August 1999. He previously played under the managership of Keith Martin at Cornard United, Halstead Town, and Braintree Town. In the first two seasons at the club he scored 39 goals in each one. At the start of season 2001/02 he became disillusioned with the game and did not return to the club until February 2002. ‘Devs’ then scored only one more goal before the finish of the season and at the end of it was transferred to Long Melford for £1500. Just after the start of season 2003/04 he announced he had retired from football. At the beginning of July 2004 the Suffolk Free Press reported he would be playing again with Long Melford. On 23rd October 2004 ‘Devs’ surfaced at Sudbury Athletic coming on as a substitute against Stanway Rovers Reserves, the following week played against Stowmarket Town Reserves. He then stopped playing once again. He did towards the end of the 2005/06 season turn out on a couple of occasions for Bures United in the Border League. At the start of the 2006/07 season was playing Sudbury Sunday League football for Northcroft. On 24th March 2007 he turned out for Sudbury Athletic, he did so again in December 2007.

Apps 115 Subs 8 Goals 79


Robbie Devereux
A very skilful midfield player who played in the Champions League for Irish side Coleraine, he also played football in Ireland for Dundalk and joined St Patricks Athletic in 1998, Shelbourne also . Started his footballing career at Ipswich Town then Colchester United (2 apps 89/90 and 6 apps 92/93 ) he then played for a number of clubs, Southport (3 apps 4 subs), Dagenham & Redbridge and including Sudbury Town. Joined AFC in September 2000 and in February 2001 was involved in a nasty incident in match at Mildenhall Town that resulted in him receiving serious facial injuries. They kept him out until the start of the start of season 2001/02 but he also had a knee problem that seemed to hold him back. He played onto the end of the season and then announced his retirement.

Apps 68 Subs 9 Goals1


Trevor Dinig
A goalkeeper signed in the middle of September 2006 as cover for Nathan Munson. He was needed for a Suffolk Premier Cup tie at Needham Market on 17th October 2006, but he failed to appear stating his car had broken down. He played previously for Dagenham and Redbridge, Hullbridge Sports and Witham Town. He was selected again for a reserve team match at Bury but again failed to appear. His registration with the club was cancelled in the middle of January 2007 and thus he became a player not to appear for AFC and indeed never even seen! In the middle of January 2007 he signed for Long Melford played one game and then went missing again with a broken hand.

Apps 0 Subs 0 Goals 0


Matt Dixon
A busy little forward who was previously with the Ipswich Town youth set up. Always likely to upset opposition defences and get a goal and did have a habit of falling easily in and around the penalty area. Was flown back especially from America to play in a Senior Cup semi-final. Was the recipient on the Young Player of the Year award in season 2000/01. Left the club in season 2000/01 to live and play in America. On 30th August 2007 he was back in the country and attended training at King's Marsh, and signed again for the club on 6th September, two days he was on the bench against Ilford. He played for a half against Cornard United in a Harwich Charity Cup game on 11th September but was released a few days later and joined Walsham-le-Willows.

Apps 46 Subs 10 Goals 18


Sheridan Driver
A midfielder, born 23rd September 1984, who signed for a months loan at the start of the 2007/08 season from Blue Square South side Bishops Stortford. He started his football career with Colchester United before joining up with Halstead Town. In season 2006/07 he played for Maldon Town. He made his league debut for AFC on 18th August 2007 against Aveley. On 30th August he signed a permanent contract for one year to play for AFC. At the end of the season he won the First Team Players Player Of The Year Award. In June 2008 he signed on for season 2008/09.

Apps Subs Goals


Muzzie Elmer
He arrived at the start of the 2004/05 season from Ipswich Wanderers, a forward who became part of the squad but did not play a first team game until an Eastern Floodlight game at Needham Market in November 2004. He did play one league game before the end of that season. At the start of 2005/06 was training at Heybridge Swifts, but signed for Wivenhoe Town and played for their reserves against AFC on 17th September 2005. In October 2005 he transferred to Harwich and Parkeston and played for their first team. Before the end of the 2005/06 season he was back at Ipswich Wanderers. In season 2006/07 he was playing for Woodbridge Town, however towards the end of February 2007 he was transferred to Stanway Rovers. On 9th February 2008 he was playing for Whitton United.

Apps 5 Subs 6 Goals 1


Tom English
The son of former Coventry striker Tommy English and nephew of former Sudbury Town man Tony English, Tom played for the Arsenal youth team after signing for them in the summer of 1998. He was formerly with Norwich playing in their youth team in 1997/98. He was released by The Gunners sometime in 1999/2000 and signed for Harwich & Parkeston. Tom's form won him trials with QPR and Ipswich, for whom he played in an FA Premier Reserve League match.
At the end of January 2001, he left Harwich to play professionally in Singapore for Marine Castle Utd where he was their leading scorer. Returning to play for Harwich during the Singapore close-season, Tom endured a terrible injury whilst on holiday in Tenerife falling from an apartment balcony and was on life support. When recovered he joined Stanway Rovers in the summer of 2003 but returned to Harwich scoring 15 goals in 34 appearances for Harwich in 2004/5.
He signed for AFC in June 2005 and played in season 2005/06 scoring 21 goals up to 25th March 2006 when he was released from his contract. A few days later he signed for Mildenhall Town and played there until the end of the season. He played again for them at the start of the 2006/07 season, but towards the end of August 2006 he was transferred to Haverhill Rovers in the Ridgeons First Division and scored a hat trick on his debut. In early October he was reported to have left the club. On 27th October 2006 he was announced as a new signing for Tiptree United and scored on his debut, he remained there until the last week of March 2007 when he transferred to Ridgeons Premier Division side Ipswich Wanderers. At the start of the 2007/08 season he had returned to Tiptree United.

Apps 39 Subs 7 Goals 21


Dennis Fenemore
The first black player for AFC, the young midfielder was living in Thetford and at a time there was a player shortage made one substitute appearance on 14/04/01 at home against Gt Yarmouth. Never seen again, although there is a mention of a player with the same name playing for Tring Town in 2003. He however re-emerged on 3rd February 2007 when he played against AFC for Flackwell Heath. He had previously been at West Suffolk College before joining Walsall. He left there and went to America to play returning to play in England, and indeed did play for Tring amongst a number of clubs. At the start of the 2007/08 season he signed for Wingate and Finchley but on 9th November signed for Northwood and on that day was substitute against AFC for them.

Apps 1 Subs 0 Goals 0


Ozie Foster
A 25 year old striker who was playing for Mildenhall Town and was also signed for Arlesey Town when he signed for AFC on 17th March 2007. He was a proven goal scorer with all the clubs he has been with, that include Peterborough United as a youth team player and trainee, Cambridge City, Soham Town Rangers and St Neots. Made his debut on 24th March 2007 at AFC Hornchurch, but at the end of the season was released. In July 2007 he signed for Ryman rivals Enfield Town.

Apps 11 Subs 0 Goals 0


Andy Fletcher
The son of the then Reserve team manager, a defender he played youth football for Sudbury and for a number of local sides. He made one appearance in an Eastern Floodlight game in season 2004/05.

Apps 1 Subs 0 Goals 0


Dean Francis
He joined AFC at the start of the 2003/04 season from Maldon Town. Nicknamed ‘Deano’ he was a fast raiding wide man, mainly on the left hand side, who previously played for Colchester United and Burnham Ramblers. He was a wood turner by trade. In November 2004 he applied to join the Essex Fire Service and was accepted as long as he was fit but with no starting date. Not wishing to jeopardise his chances by getting injured playing football decided he would not play anymore. At the end of June 2005, he was reported as having signed for Tiptree United. On 21st October he broke his leg playing for Tiptree against Fulbourn Institute.

Apps 53 Subs 3 Goals 11


Darren Frost
Fast moving front runner was released by Ipswich Town youths, joined AFC in 1999 when he played for the reserves, made his first team debut in an EAC game against Soham but only made two other appearances before leaving for Long Melford. At the start of 2004 he had a third operation on his knee but was told he would not be able to play again. However in September 2004 he played one game for Sudbury Athletic, before returning to Long Melford and playing for them. He played for Melford Reserves against AFC Reserves on 3rd September 2005. Later in the season he left and signed for Halstead Town, but at the start of the 2006/07 season he was back at Long Melford.

Apps 3 Subs 0 Goals 0


Aaron Gardiner
A tigerish midfield player who signed for the club at the start in August 1999, having started his career at Ipswich Town in the youth set up. He left there and played for a time at Wigan Athletic before returning to Suffolk. He then played for Sudbury Town, Cornard United, Halstead, Town, Braintree Town and Diss Town. He was awarded both the Supporters and the First Team Player’s Player of the year in season 2000/01. Was infamously sent off in the first leg of the F.A. Vase semi-final of 2001/02. Played for almost the next two seasons and was in the 2002/03 F.A. Vase final side. Aaron played most of the 2003/04 season and was deeply upset to be left out of the F.A. Vase Final squad against Winchester City, and then announced he would be retiring from football. However at the start of 2004/05 he signed for Clacton Town and started pre-season training. On the evening of Wednesday 21st July 2004 after a training run he collapsed and died at his home in Ipswich aged just 33 years old. He was buried at Holy Trinity Church Long Melford on August 6th 2004.

Apps 215 Subs 22 Goals 12


Donald George
A tall central defender signed from Leiston on 10th October 2006, when an injury crisis occurred. He started with Ipswich Wanderers and then Woodbridge Town before joining the Victory Road side. He made his debut against Needham Market on 17th October 2006 in a Suffolk Premier Cup defeat and scored his first and only goal, the winner, in the FA Trophy replay win at Kingstonian. On 30th December 2006 he was transferred back to Leiston and was with them in 2007/08.

Apps 12 Subs 2 Goals 1


Brett Girling
The ex Sudbury Town defender joined at the start of the 2003/04 season from Braintree Town. He spent four seasons with the Ryman League side following his move from Chelmsford City where he went after leaving Sudbury Town. At the end of his first season with the club won both the Supporters Player of the Year and the Players Player of the Year awards. On October 2nd 2004 he scored his first goal for nine years against Gt Yarmouth Town. In May 2005 he captained the side at White Hart Lane in the F.A. Vase final, and at the start of the 2005/06 season he was appointed club captain. He played throughout the season and was retained for season 2006/07 but relieved of the captaincy by the new manager. On 4th March 2007 he signed a contract extension until the end of the 2007/08 season. At the end of the 2006/07 season he scooped two awards, The Manager’s Player of the Year and The Player’s Player of the Year at the annual award evening. He continued with AFC in season 2007/08, but decided to leave at the end of it.

Apps 248 Subs 16 Goals 2


Steve Greaves
An ex-professional footballer having been with Ipswich Town, Fulham (1 app 87-88), Preston North End (2 apps 90-91), Scunthorpe, came to the club on amalgamation from Sudbury Town. A midfielder with coaching qualifications was happy to play mainly second team football whilst earning a living as a coach with the Ipswich Town Academy. He won the Reserve Team Manager’s Player of the Year in 1999/00 and 2000/01. Never started a first team game but came on twice in season 1999/2000. At the start of season 2004/05 he was promoted at Ipswich Town to assist with their youth team and never re-signed for the club. In season 2006/07 he became assistant Academy manager at Ipswich. On 30th June 2007 it was announced that he had left Ipswich Town.

Apps 2 Subs 0 Goals 0


Dean Greygoose
A vastly experienced goalkeeper born 18/12/1964, who was signed in February 2003, after Ben Nower told the club he would not be able to play due to promotion at work. He made his debut in F.A. Vase game at Mossley. Dean was at Kings Lynn (9/9/02), but had previously played for Leyton Orient (1 App 85/86), Cambridge United (26 apps 83/85) then on loan at Lincoln City (6 apps 21/09/85 to 2/11/85), Crystal Palace and Crewe (205 apps 87/93) in the Football League before playing non league with Altringham (01/08/99 to 01/08/00), Witton Albion, Northwich Victoria (01/08/96 to 22/06/99), Chester City (1/8/00 to 31/05/01), Stevenage Borough (23 apps 01/06/01 to 01/07/02) and Canvey Island 01/07/02 to 9/9/02). Played throughout the 2004/05 season and played his last game for the club in the F.A. Vase final against Didcot Town before being released by the club. In the middle of July 2005 he signed for Soham Town Rangers and he played throughout the 2005/06 season for the club. He was still at Soham in September 2006 as player/coach and running his own goalkeeping courses. On 22nd January 2007 it was announced that he had left Soham and had signed for Bury Town. He was still with the Ram Meadow club at the start of the 2007/08 season, and played throughout it.

Apps 127 Subs 3 Goals 0


Trevor Gunn
A veteran central defender who came to the club in December 1999 when a sudden injury crisis struck. ‘Gunny’ who had previously played for Sudbury Town and Braintree Town, performed well but left in April 2000 when the injuries cleared up. He became manager of his home town club Takely in the Essex League but announced that he would step down due to his business commitments in the aircraft repair industry at the end of the 2005/06 season.

Apps 12 Subs 1 Goals 0


Luke Hammond
A midfield player signed from Leiston just prior to the start of the 2006/07 season. He started his career at Colchester United, the went to play professionally in Holland before returning to play for a number of local clubs including Cornard United, Wivenhoe Town and Braintree Town, before joining Leiston in season 2005/06. His brother Kirk played for Sudbury Town in the late1990’s, his father Geoff played for both Ipswich Town and Manchester City. Late in the 2006/07 season he sustained a groin injury that would require surgery. He had the operation in May 2007 and played again on 4th August. On 4th January 2008 it was announced that he was available for transfer, and on 9th January a months loan to Cambridge City was agreed. This was to have started on 18th January but on 12th the deal was scrapped and on 15th January he was taken off the transfer list and continued to play for the club. In June 2008 he signed on again for season 2008/09.

Apps Subs Goals


Jermaine Harewood
Young forward signed from Ipswich Wanderers at the start of the 2002/03 season, ‘Jamma’ made his debut at Dereham Town in September 2002. He was informed at the end of season 2002/03 that he could leave the club. In July 2003 left and signed for Woodbridge Town, however on 1st November he transferred to Mildenhall Town. In January 2004 he returned to Woodbridge Town. On 12th July 2004 the Bury Free Press reported he had signed for Stowmarket Town and he played for them and scored against AFC on 25th August 2004. Towards the end of February 2005 he was transferred to Needham Market. He signed at the start of the 2006/07 season for Whitton United and was still there in January 2007. In September 2007 he was playing for Stanway Rovers.

Apps 12 Subs 11 Goals 0


Liam Harrold
A 25 year old striker signed on the 12th December 2006 from Wisbech Town to boost an injury hit squad. He previously played for Blackstones, Boston Town, Corby Town, St Neots, Spalding United and Arlesey Town. He made his debut away at Newport County in an F.A. Trophy tie on 16th December 2006. He played only four more times before being released and joined Mildenhall Town on 17th January 2007, and was there at the start of the 2007/08 season. On 29th August 2007 he was reported to have signed for Blackstones in the UCL.

Apps 5 Subs 0 Goals 2


Gary Harvey
Having played for both Sudbury Town Reserves and then for a long period Sudbury Wanderers he remained with the new club on amalgamation as a player in the reserve side. He won the Reserve Player’s Player of the Year in 1999/00.The joint owner of MEL Aviation the club’s main sponsors, the defender played onto the end of season 2000/01. After that he became the manager of the second team before having to step down after intervention from the Inland Revenue in 2002. In March 2003 he was back with the club having been asked to become first team manager from the start of the 2003/04 season. In that his first season the club won the Ridgeons League title with three games to spare. Guided the club to the F.A. Vase Final but lost to Winchester City, but won the Suffolk Premier Cup. The club retained the Ridgeons League title in 2004/05 but lost the F.A. Vase final against Didcot Town. He continued in season 2005/06 but on 1st April 2006 he decided that he would retire from management at the end of the season to devoted more time to his business affairs. The club finished third in the Ridgeons League and were promoted to the Ryman Division One North. The Ridgeons League Cup was won for the first time at Diss Town against Lowestoft Town but he was not there to see it won.

Games 190 Won 136 Lost 30 Drawn 24


Adrian Hayes
Known as ’Adie’ he signed at the start of the 2004/05 season having played the previous season in the Conference for Farnborough Town. He had played for Diss Town before playing in the Football League for Cambridge United (34 apps 95/98). He also played for Kings Lynn and Kettering Town. He made his first AFC appearance in a pre-season game against Desborough Town at King’s Marsh on 17th July 2004. Got injured in his second pre-season game at Witham Town and in September 2004 found out he had a ruptured cruciate ligament in his knee and needed a major operation to repair it. This would keep him out of action for around nine months. He made a remarkable recovery and came on as a substitute at home to make his debut on 14th April 2005 against Mildenhall Town and also made an appearance in the Vase final against Didcot Town. It was not until 3rd September 2005 that he started a league game. He played through the 2005/06 season, but his services were not required by the new manager at the start of the 2006/07 season he signed for Mildenhall Town. He was red carded in his first competitive game for them and on 11th September left and signed for Dereham Town. He was still with them at the start of the 2007/08 season and played throughout it. In the middle of June 2008 he joined Diss Town.

Apps 56 Subs 4 Goals 7


David Head
A tall young defender signed at the start of the 2002/03 season, from Ipswich Wanderers and having also played at Harwich and Parkeston. He is the son of Martin Head who was previously manager of Sudbury Town. In season 2003/04 was unlucky with injury but returned to play well and was chosen as the Manager’s Player of the Year. In September 2004 was the subject of an approach from Heybridge Swifts, he was valued at £10,000 and there was no more heard from them. In March 2005 signed a new contract at AFC and at the end of the season won the Manager’s Player of The Year Award. Season 2005/06 was an outstanding season for ‘Heady’, at the end of it he swept the board with awards. He won the First Team Players Player of the Year, the Supporters Player of the Year and the First Team Managers Player of the Year. He remained at the club in 2006/07 and was appointed club Captain by the new manager. On 12th December 2006 he signed a contract extension until the end of the 2007/08 season. He won the Supporters Player of the Year for 2006/07 and was presented with the trophy by Ray Clemence on 21st April 2007 before the final home game of the season. He also won the Top Goal Scorer award for the season with 16 goals. Continued as Captain in season 2007/08 and played throughout the campaign. In June 2008 he decided his future was away from AFC and on 16th June he signed for Leiston on a two year contract.

Apps 326 Subs 6 Goals 66


Simon Head
David’s brother a midfielder who was previously with Ipswich Wanderers, Woodbridge, Harwich, Lowestoft and Halstead, before being snapped up as new manager Gary Harvey’s first signing at the start of season 2003/04. Started only nine games before becoming injured, made a few sub appearances later in season. On 30th March 2004 he was transferred to Clacton Town. On 3rd July 2004 it was reported that he had re-signed for Halstead Town for the 2004/05 season. On 26th October 2004 he signed for Heybridge Swifts, however after a change of management at the club he returned to Halstead in late November 2004. On Tuesday 29th March 2005 he signed for Needham Market, and played for them throughout the season. At the start of the 2006/07 season he returned to AFC with manager Mark Morsley. He played in some pre-season games but was released from his contract and signed for Leiston on 31stAugust 2006. After injury problems he signed in the middle of December 2006 for Mildenhall Town, at the beginning of June 2007 he had left the club. On 7th June 2007 it was announced that he had signed once again for AFC, he played until the end of the 2007/08 season. Brantham Athletic announced him as a new signing for 2008/09 on 11th June 2008.

Apps 62 Subs 7 Goals 10


Gareth Heath
A forward who signed for the club on 29th December 2006 from Heybridge Swifts. He previously played for both Halstead Town and Maldon Town, and in doing so attracted the attentions of Scottish League club St Mirren. An ankle injury towards the end of season 2005/06 resulted in an operation and his appearances at the start of the 2006/07 season were limited before a ‘clean up op’ was needed just before he signed for AFC. Made his AFC debut on 13th January 2007 against Waltham Forest as a substitute, he remained at the club for season 2007/08. At the end of the season he won the First Team Manager’s Player Of The Year Award. On 2nd July 2008 he agreed a deal to remain with the club for 2008/09.

Apps Subs Goals


Richard Heller
This eighteen year old made his debut on 1st April 2006 after being released by Tottenham Hotspur. He lived in Stanstead, a fast nippy forward, and was a crowd pleaser with his darting runs. At the end of the 2005/06 season he was offered a contract with the club by the new manager, but decided to sign for Haverhill Rovers for 2006/07. In July 2007 he signed a year long extension to his contract with Rovers and a year later signed another extension for the club. On 20th March 2008 he released himself from the contract due to injury and announced he was off to university in the summer. He made 63 appearances for Rovers scoring 13 times.

Apps 10 Subs 0 Goals 1


Jamie Howe
He had played previously for Sudbury Wanderers before the amalgamation. A strong tackling no nonsense defender who perhaps did not make the most of his first team opportunities. He won the Reserve Team Player’s Player of the Year 2001/02. ‘Gipp’ left the club at start of season 2002/03 to join Long Melford. At the start of season 2004/05 he joined Cornard United. In March 2005 he signed for Sudbury Athletic. At the beginning of 2005/06 he signed on at AFC to play in the reserve side, he was part of the winning Suffolk Junior Cup side at Portman Road in April 2006. He made a number of first team appearances towards the end of the season and played well. He re-signed for the club at the start of 2006/07 and was captain of the Reserve side. Midway through the season he stopped playing, but returned to play the final two games.

Apps 49 Subs 17 Goals 0


Chris Howlett
Joined the club from Diss Town in March 2001, a strong central defender who had previously played for Grundisburgh, Felixstowe Hadleigh United and Bury Town. He was very disappointed not to have made the bench in the Vase final of 2002/03, was going to retire at the end of that season but stayed on and did not regret his decision. ‘Shabba’ played throughout season 2003/04 but was again left out of the F.A. Vase Final squad. In season 2004/05 he spent the early part of the season on the bench, but played many games late in the season and made the squad for the 2004/05 F.A. Vase final. He decided to leave at the end of that season and in early June 2005 signed for Needham Market, where he played through the 2005/6 season. When the new AFC manager Mark Morsley came from Needham Market at the start of the 2006/07 season he bought ‘Shabba’ back to the club as player coach. On 16th January 2007 he publicly announced that he would retire from top class football at the end of the 2006/07 season. He left at the end of the season and intended to join Grundisburgh in the SIL. In July 2007 he played pre-season games for Felixstowe and Walton United, and then signed for the ‘Seasiders’.

Apps 149 Subs 52 Goals 9


Kevin Hughes
A tall, strong central defender who started off his football career with Colchester United and then went to Wivenhoe Town. A Police Officer serving in Essex, he joined Harwich and Parkeston and from there went to Needham Market to join the current AFC manager. He joined AFC at the start of the 2006/07 season to renew that partnership at King's Marsh. He sustained an injury towards the end of September 2006 and had a cartilage operation on 4th October and it was found that he had snapped his cruciate ligament. This would require another operation and likely to keep him out of football for some time. The operation was a success and hopes of a comeback in late 2007 the plan. His comeback was on 7th November 2007 in a friendly at Brantham and after two further games went on loan to Harwich and Parkeston to continue his rehabilitation. On 2nd February 2008 he was back in the AFC fold and played at Ilford and played until the end of the season when he left.

Apps15 Subs 7 Goals 0


Simon Hyde
He was previously with Sudbury Wanderers and joined on amalgamation. Nicknamed ‘Bambi’ due to his long legs and gangly running style always gave wholehearted performances, Never knew what his best position was, although mainly used as a defender. He won the First Team Manager’s Player of the Year in season 2001/02. He played for the club in 2002/03, 2003/04 and 2004/05. He played through the 2005/06 season and never gave less that 100% in each game. At the end of the season the new AFC manager decided not to re-sign him and he signed for Ipswich Wanderers at the start of the 2006/07 season and played throughout it. At the start of the 2007/08 pre-season he played for Walsham le Willows, Felixstowe and Walton United and Whitton United. In August 2007 he signed and played for Whitton United in Ridgeons Division One.

Apps 265 Subs 52 Goals 30


Trevor Irvine
‘Biggles’ had been with Sudbury Wanderers for a number of years before going to Long Melford, but returned to AFC to play in the Reserves in 2005/06. He played in the winning Suffolk Junior Cup in April 2006. He signed again for the club in 2006/07 and when an injury crisis happened, he was on the bench for a Ryman League Cup game at Staines Town on 5th December 2006 at the age of 39, he did not get on. At the start of the 2007/08 season he returned to the club.

Apps Subs Goals


Chris Jackson
A young central defender who was briefly with the club at the start of the 2004/05 season and played only one Eastern Floodlight game, he then left the club. In November 2007 he was playing for Sudbury Athletic.

Apps 1 Subs 0 Goals 0

Steve Joyce
A midfield player who came to the club in the middle of the 2007/08 season from Witham Town. He played in the reserves until the end of March 2008 when he was named as a substitute for the first team. He made his debut on 9th April from the bench and started his first game on 19th April. He was signed again for the 2008/09 season.

Apps Subs Goals

Adrian Kemsley
An experienced defender who had played for a number of local clubs, including Sudbury Athletic, joined to play for the Reserves and played just one Eastern Floodlight game in season 2004/05, and left at the end of the season. In season Aril 2008 he was playing for Glemsford and Cavendish Reserves.

Apps 1 Subs 0 Goals 0


Stuart Lillie
‘Lasher’, a tall lankly player had previously been with Town where he scored a wonder FA Cup goal in a replay against Stotfold in September 1998. He also played for most other locals clubs mainly as a striker before joining AFC’s reserve ranks. On 9th April 2002 his big day came was named as substitute for the first team against Clacton, he did not get on! At the start of season 2004/05 he was playing for Bures United. At the start of 2006/07 he had signed for Hadleigh United. In November 2007 he was playing for Sudbury Athletic.



Apps 0 Subs 1 Goals 0


Ian Manby
Joined the club in 2004/05 as a defender from Cornard United, having played for many local clubs he was part of the reserve side but played in a couple of Eastern Floodlight games. He became part of the Reserve team management during season 2005/06 and remained so in season 2006/07. When Reserve team manager Bob Fletcher decided to stand down at the end of the 2006/07 season, he was appointed to the post. He remained at the club for season 2008/09 as Reserve Team Manager.

Apps 3 Subs 0 Goals 0


Matthew Mann
He was signed on 2nd January 2006 from Cambridge United as cover for the injured Paul Rutherford. A 17 year old youth team keeper who made his debut in the 6-1 win at Mildenhall that same day. He played in the next game at home to Cambridge City, and then he went to play for Burnley Youths in the F.A. Youth Cup. before returning to Cambridge but was released on 1st June 2006. He then played for Enfield, Chessington & Hook before starting the 2007/08 season with Thurrock.

Apps 2 Subs 0 Goals 0


Nicky Marlow
A goalkeeper who joined the club at the start of the 2005/06 season, having previously been with Long Melford, Cornard United and other local clubs. He was called into first team action in the away F. A. Cup game in September 2005 against Welwyn Garden City after Paul Rutherford broke down in the pre-match warm up. ‘The Cat’ played for the Reserve side during the season and was part of the Suffolk Junior Cup winning side at Portman Road Ipswich in April 2006. He signed again for the club in season 2006/07, but played only a few reserve games before deciding not to play anymore.

Apps 1 Subs 2 Goals 0


Keith Martin
Was manager of Sudbury Wanderers and became the first AFC manager in June 1999. He started off with Highbury Barn, progressing to Cornard United, Halstead Town and Braintree Town before coming to Brundon Lane. Won the Jewson League Championship in 2000/01 and 2001/02 the Suffolk Premier Cup in 2001/02 and reached the F.A. Vase semi-final the same season. In March 2003 decided that he would stand down at the end of the season, this he did after leading AFC to the Vase final at Upton Park in May 2003. On 15th December 2003 he joined Wroxham as their joint manager. In May 2004 was appointed as manager of Heybridge Swifts. In the early part of July 2004 was admitted to hospital where he had a big toe amputated. On 8th November due to ill health he resigned from Heybridge Swifts. In the middle of May 2005 it was announced that he was returning to Halstead Town as their assistant manager. On 15th September 2005 the Suffolk Free Press reported he had left because he was no longer enjoying it.

Games 237 Won 170 Lost 35 Drawn 32

Will Morris
A tall defender that joined the club to play reserve football at the start of the 2003/04 and stayed for part of 2004/05 when he played one Eastern Floodlight League game. He left in January 2005 to join Hadleigh United, he later went to Walsham le Willow in 2005/06 and in 2006/07 was with Halstead Town.

Apps 1 Subs 0 Goals 0


Mark Morsley
Mark began his football career with Mistley United in the Essex and Suffolk Border League and became both manager and secretary during his time with the club.
He left to join Harwich and Parkeston and became their reserve team manager, before becoming assistant first team boss.
Joined Needham Market in October 2003 and was appointed first team manager, he guided them from the Ridgeons First Division to the Premier and also won the Suffolk Senior Cup. In season 2005/06 he took Needham to sixth place in the Premier Division and also on a good FA Vase run.
At the end of the season he applied successfully for the vacancy as AFC Sudbury manager, thus becoming the club’s third manager since their formation. In the 2006/07 season he guided them to fifth place and into the play offs, the semi-final was won but the team lost out on penalties in the final to Harlow Town. He was still manager at the start of the 2007/08 season , and the club finished runners up in the League, but lost in the play off semi-final and were losing finalists in the League Cup. He agreed to continue for season 2008/09 in March 2008. On 7th May 2008 he announced that he had resigned as manager of the club. This was after talks with the board asking for a budget that he thought would make the 2008/09 side competitive was turned down. On 7th June 2008 he was appointed as CEO at newly promoted Brantham Athletic.

Games 114 Won 60 Lost 30 Drawn 24


Nathan Munson
‘Munno’ a goalkeeper, played for Colchester United where he was a professional for two seasons (2 apps 92/94) and also at number of Essex clubs such as Billericay Town, Wivenhoe Town, Stanway Rovers and Harwich & Parkeston. He joined Needham Market in season 2005/06 but followed manager Mark Morsley to King's Marsh for the 2006/07 season. On 12th March 2007 he signed a contract to stay with the club until the end of the 2007/08 season. However on 15th November 2007 it was announced that he was retiring from playing but would take over as the club’s goalkeeping coach from David Hunt. He however had to play in a number of games, including the Ryman League Cup Final due to Dean Neil being cup tied. On 11th April 2008 Neil was released and ‘Munno’ returned between the sticks, until the end of the season when he left.

Apps 92 Subs 10 Goals 0


Dean Neil
A goalkeeper signed from Wivenhoe Town on 15th November 2007 as a replacement for Nathan Munson. An experienced player who having started his career with Charlton Athletic, went onto to play for Tonbridge Angels, Harlow Town and Tilbury. He represented England Schoolboys in his younger days, was also a boxer and undefeated in 36 fights. He was released by the club on 11th April 2008, due to work commitments.

Apps 19 Subs 0 Goals 0


Tommy Noble
A striker previously with Clacton Town, Stanway Rovers, Maldon Town and Braintree Town before rejoining Maldon from where he was signed by AFC on 15th August 2005. He made his debut on 21st August at Newmarket and scored, and at the end of the season won the leading Goal Scorer award. Played throughout the 2005/06 season and was retained for the 2006/07 season. On 12th January 2007 he agreed an extension of his contract to the end of the 2007/08 season. He started pre-season 2007/08 and suffered an injury and then was unavailable for the first game of the season on 18th August 2007. On 20th August the club accepted an offer from Tiptree United and he was transferred to them.

Apps 80 Subs 4 Goals 30


Lee Norfolk
Started off with Ipswich Town, this New Zealand born midfielder, played for Kings Lynn, Cambridge City and Bishops Stortford before joining Sudbury Wanderers then AFC. A great taker of free kicks from just outside the penalty area. He joined the Police service in 2000 and represented England and Great Britain Police. Played for the following four seasons before leaving the club at the end of the 2004/05 season. Played in all three losing F.A. Vase finals. In early June 2005 he signed for Halstead Town, his stay however was a short on as on 30th September 2005 he signed for Needham Market. He stayed there throughout the 2005/06 season but at the start of 2006/07 he signed again for Halstead Town in the role of player/coach, they were relegated at the end of the season. At the start of the 2007/08 season he signed for Ridgeons Division One side Diss Town, but on 22nd November 2007 he was reported as having been released by the club. In December 2007 he was helping out Essex Senior League side Burnham Ramblers.


Apps 267 Subs 21 Goals 55


Ben Nower
A goalkeeper signed from King's Lynn in September 2000, he then only missed one game until promotion at work meant he could not play regularly on Saturdays. He made 98 consecutive appearances, a club record. Was First Team Players Player of the Year 2001/02. Late in October 2003 he signed on again hoping to play should his work allow or in an injury crisis. In December 2003 he was on the bench after changing his occupation. Stayed with the club throughout 2004/05 although his first team chances were limited, but performed brilliantly for the reserve side. He was in the 2004/05 F.A. Vase squad, but left at the end of the season to join Mildenhall Town. He won the Reserves Manager of the Year Award in 2004/05. He played at Mildenhall through the 2005/06 season and was still there at the start of the 2006/07 season. On 9th February 2007 he signed a two contract extension with the Recway club.

Apps 164 Subs 31 Goals 0


Graeme Oakes
A young midfield player, who played Border League football for the club, was called upon twice in season 2001/02. A good local cricketer his football career was cut short with a back injury. In July 2007 he was playing cricket for Sudbury Cricket Club and was again in June 2008.

Apps 2 Subs 1 Goals 0


Lee Owen
A local boy who was with Peterbourgh United youths before returning and joining up with Sudbury Town. Went to Cambridge City and was loaned out to Ipswich Wanderers and Bury Town. The midfielder joined Braintree Town from where he came to AFC in March 2000. He played for the club continuously until the end of the 2005/06 season, when the new manager decided that he would not require his services. He left and at the start of the 2006/07 season and signed for Ipswich Wanderers. In pre-season, 2007/08 he played for Tiptree United, and then signed for them.

Apps 289 Subs20 Goals 92


Wanye Pannell
An ex-Halstead Town player this experienced front runner signed in February 2003 from Stowmarket Town to play in the club’s reserve side but was needed when many first teamers were rested in an East Anglian Cup tie at Long Melford. At the end of season 2002/03 returned to Stowmarket Town. In August 2004 he was playing for Needham Market, later that season he went to Debenham LC where he was playing in season 2005/06. In January 2007 he was playing for Capel Plough in the SIL and was still there in August 2007.

Apps 1 Subs 0 Goals 0


Ben Patrick
A young fast forward player who started off at Sudbury Town before switching to Sudbury Wanderers just prior to amalgamation. Showed promise but did not make an appearance until coming on as a sub in February 2000. His appearances were of a limited nature. At the start of season 2003/04 was included in the first team squad. There was no sign of him at the club at the start of season 2004/05. On 16th October 2004 he made his first appearance for Sudbury Athletic. At the start of season 2005/06 he was back at King’s Marsh signing for the reserve side, but his appearances were very limited. He was not playing at the start of the 2006/07 season. In December 2007 he was playing Sunday football for Boxford Rovers.

Apps 7 Subs 9 Goals 4


John Pollard
Was 34 years old when he signed at the end of the 2004/05 season for AFC from Heybridge Swifts where he was their record appearance holder. He started his career with Colchester United and played for Bury Town for a short time. He played for St Albans City for a couple of seasons before returning to Heybridge. A central defender or a defensive midfielder, he played a limited number of games in 2005/06 at AFC due to picking up a number of injuries. He was appointed Vice-Captain of the club by the new manager at the start of 2006/07. He started the season well but on 12th January 2007 was released by mutual consent from his contract. On 29th January he signed for Ridgeons First Division side Tiptree United, where he stayed until 27th March when he joined Halstead Town in the Ridgeons Premier Division. He however could not stop them being relegated, but towards the end of July 2007 was appointed assistant manager.

Apps 50 Subs Goals 4


Darren Pratt
Had been with Sudbury Town and joined AFC at the start but after a few weeks became disillusioned and left in November 1999 to join Cornard United. He however rejoined the club in March 2000 but never played another first team game. Went onto become player manager at Long Melford and remained there until the end of the 2003/04 season when he announced he would not be continuing with the job. In June 2004 however he changed his mind and decided to stay on until the end of the season when he stepped down to concentrate on business projects. At the start of the 2005/06 season he signed for AFC once again, this time to play reserve football. He played through the season as was part of the winning Suffolk Junior Cup winning side in April 2006 at Portman Road. At the end of the season he won the Reserve Team Manager’s Player of the Year award. He was signed again at the start of the 2006/07 season and played for the reserves throughout the seaon, the final few games in goal. On 15th August 2007 Long Melford announced he had signed once again for them, however on 8th November 2007 they stated he had retired due to a knee injury. On 28th December he came back and played yet again against Cornard United.

Apps 2 Subs 2 Goals 0


Matt Proctor
A left back who was with Stowmarket but joined AFC at the beginning he spent most of the next season injured playing only a handful of games. Left and joined Wroxham in season 2001/02 came back to the club from Stowmarket in September 2002 to help out the second team. At the start of season 2003/04 joined Cornard United as player/coach and was still there at the start of 2004/05. In January 2005 decided to retire. In February 2005 he started to referee local football, and he received some good marks and quickly made progress. On 16th January 2007 he emigrated to Australia with his family, where he continued his refereeing career. In May 2008 he joined the Police service in 'Oz'.

Apps 62 Subs 4 Goals 0


Lee Rayner
The brother of Terry he came to the club in October 2004 as a reserve team player but played in a couple of Eastern Floodlight games in season 2004/05. He continued with the club in 2005/06 and was part of the winning Suffolk Junior Cup side in April 2006. He remained with the club in 2006/07 and played throughout it, and returned at the start of the 2007/08 season.

Apps Subs Goals


Terry Rayner
A livewire right sided player who liked to get forward, signed from Heybridge Swifts in 1999, previously with Halstead Town, Harwich & Parkeston, and Braintree Town. He won the Supporters Player of the Year in season 2001/02. Scorer of AFC’s goal in the Vase final of 2002/03, he decided not to sign for season 2003/04 and joined Maldon Town. On 25th February 2004 Terry was re-signed from Maldon for an undisclosed fee. He played through 2004/05 and 2005/06 appearing in two further Vase finals. ‘El Tel’ was re-signed for season 2006/07. On 9th February 2007 he agreed a contract extension at the club until the end of the 2007/08 season. A knee injury saw him have surgery in April 2007, but he returned for pre-season training at the start of 2007/08. He was able to play a few games but more knee problems kept him out and he needed a further knee operation, which he did not have until 27th March.

Apps Subs Goals


Mark Roper
A 19 year old central defender who was with Norwich City in their youth set up before joining the Cambridge City Youth Academy, He was released from there at the end of 2004/05 and signed by AFC. His chances were limited at AFC during 2005/06 and in December 2005 he was loaned to Norwich United. He made the transfer permanent in January 2007 and he stayed there until the end of the season. At the start of season 2006/07 he was playing for Needham Market. In the middle of October 2006 he was transferred to Diss Town, but when a change of manager came in November 2006 he went to Woodbridge Town. He was still at the Notcutts Park club in August 2007.

Apps 9 Subs 16 Goals 0


James Rowe
‘Rowey’, a fast raiding forward, played for a number of teams before joining AFC he was with Histon, Heybridge Swifts, Stamford and Grantham Town before returning to Histon from where he went to Needham Market in season 2005/06. At the start of the 2006/07 he joined AFC along with new manager Mark Morsley. He is the son of former Sudbury Town winger Colwyn Rowe. On 15th January 2007 he signed a contract extension until the end of season 2007/08 and was also made club vice-captain. On 11th November 2007 he was placed on the transfer list after a bust up, but five days later he issued a public apology and was back in the fold. He was the winner of the Supporters Player of the Year for 2007/08 and the First Team Top Scorer Award. He decided his future was away from the club in 2008/09.


Apps 84 Subs 4 Goals 48


Paul Rutherford
A goalkeeper, ‘Ruthers’ signed from Heybridge Swifts at the end of the 2004/05 season. He played for Norwich City, Colchester United and Tottenham Hotspurs as a youth player. Was with Braintree Town before a loan spell at Wroxham followed, he was then transferred to Heybridge Swifts. He played for AFC throughout the 2005/06 season, but was released at the end of it by the new manager. At the start of 2006/07 he signed for Halstead Town and won their Player of the Season award at the end of it. He remained there for the 2007/08 season, but in early June 2008 he signed once again for Braintree Town.

Apps 55 Subs 0 Goals 0


Matt Ryland
A 17 year old from Somersham, who was included in the first team squad for season 2003/04. A nippy left sided wide player who made his debut on 16th September 2003 as a substitute at home to Soham. He made two further substitute appearances before leaving in July 2004 for Stowmarket Town. In June 2005 he signed for Leiston, and he played there until the start of the 2006/07 season when he left to join Diss Town. On October 26th 2006 he returned to Leiston and was still there in July 2007., but in August 2007 he returned to Stowmarket. In the middle of January 2008 he signed for Diss Town. At the end of the season he signed for Mildenhall Town.


Apps 3 Subs 0 Goals 0


Gary Setchell
A central defender signed from Kings Lynn at the start of the 2005/06 season. The Norfolk club was where he started his career before going to Fakenham Town, then back to Kings Lynn before joining Kettering Town and went to the F.A. Trophy Final with them. He progressed to Rushden and Diamonds where he helped them to Division Two of the Football League via the plays at the Millennium Stadium. Tamworth was the next stop before re-signing for Kings Lynn in December 2003. He played for AFC throughout the 2005/06 season, before being released by the new manager at the end of it. He joined Swaffham Town in the Ridgeons First Division at the start of the 2006/07 season, and gained promotion with them in that season. In November 2007 he was still with the Norfolk club. The club were relegated at the end of 2007/08 and on 21st May he was appointed joint manager for 2008/09.

Apps 44 Subs 5 Goals 1


Barry Simpson
A tall central defender who signed at the start of season 2002/03 from Long Melford to play in the reserves, having previously been with Cornard United and Sudbury Athletic. He played a couple of games in goal for the second team and when an East Anglian Cup tie came at Long Melford in February 2003 took the keeper’s jersey for this first team fixture and played in the Final of the Eastern Floodlight League in pre-season 2004/05 against Concord Rangers. He played for the club in season 2005/06 although his appearances were limited by a knee injury. An operation on the knee was done in January 2006 and he made a comeback as a substitute for a few minutes at Stanway Rovers in April 2006. He signed again for the club at the start of 2006/07 and was intent as playing as a goalkeeper. On 17th October 2006 he went to watch a Suffolk Premier Cup tie at Needham Market arriving ten minutes before kick off and as another goalkeeper had failed to arrive was hastily kitted out and ended up making first team debut. He suffered a foot injury later in the season and this kept him out of the game. In September 2007 he returned to football as a central defender with Glemsford and Cavendish.

Apps 4 Subs 7 Goals 0


Gareth Simpson
On 4th January 2008, this midfield player signed for AFC from Mildenhall Town, where he was the club captain. Unsurprisingly had the nickname of ‘Simmo’, born 17th February 1980. He spent time with Norwich City and Gillingham and previously played for, Cambridge City and Diss Town before joining Mildenhall in July 2004 for a second spell with them. He left at the end of the 2007/08 season.

Apps 23 Subs 0 Goals 1


Robert Sims
A stalwart central defender for Wanderers, ‘Flipper’ joined the club on amalgamation. He was awarded a testimonial and shared a game against West Ham with Chris Tracey at the start of season 2000/01. Bad knees and a number of operations saw his career come finish at the end of that season, but answered an emergency call and played an FA Cup game against Aylesbury in season 2001/02. In 2003 he became a parish councillor in Great Cornard, he was re-elected in May 2007.

Apps 47 Subs 11 Goals 6


Ashley Skeggs
This midfield youngster was only 16 years old when he was named as a substitute against Lowestoft Town in a SPC tie on 21st March 2006. He did not get on. He re-signed for the club in 2006/07. He was again an unused substitute in October 2006, but he did make his first team appearance as a second half substitute at Staines Town in the Ryman League Cup on 5th December 2006. He won the Young Player of the Year award at the end of the 2006/07 season. On 18th July 2007, Long Melford announced that he had signed for them for the 2007/08 season.

Apps 1 Subs 4 Goals 0

Paul Skingley
He joined Needham Market with the AFC manager Mark Morsley in October 2003 and came to AFC at the start of season 2006/07. He was previously a successful manager in his own right, guiding East Bergholt up the SIL ladder until they won the Premier Division title.
'Skins' is recognised as one of the best coaches at this level with a UEFA ‘B’ coaching qualification. Much of the success that was gained at his previous clubs was down to the high levels of fitness he demands from all the players. He remained at the club during the 2007/08 season. At the beginning of May 2008 he was appointed head coach at Brantham Athletic to oversee all the coaching at the club.


Andy Smiles
‘Geordie’ as he was known to everyone was a great header of the ball and formed a great strike partnership with Brian Devereux. Had played with manager Keith Martin at all his previous clubs and was at AFC in the beginning. He stayed until the end of season 2000/01 during which most of his appearances were from the bench. Left to join Long Melford and retired during 2003/04.

Apps 45 Subs 17 Goals 20


Nicky Smith
This ex Sudbury Town player started his football career at Colchester United winning the F.A. Trophy and the Conference, before joining Sudbury in 1994. He played 154 games then went to Cambridge City, Braintree Town and Maldon Town before joining Witham Town during the 2005/06 season. He re-signed for them in 2006/07, but at the end of September 2006 a number of Witham players left due to budget cuts. On 3rd October 2006 the midfielder signed for AFC as a 38 year old and he made his debut at Chatham Town on 7th October 2006. In June 2007 he was appointed player/assistant manager of the club. He was named a record number of times as an unused substitute though 2007/08 a total of forty four times. On 17th May 2008 he became the club's fourth manager taking over from Mark Morsley, as the club were placed in the Southern League Midland Division.

Apps Subs Goals


Paul Smith
Due to an injury and suspension crisis towards the end of October 2006, he was signed on in time to play in an F.A. Cup tie at home against Leatherhead on 28th October 2006. He played and scored on his debut. Previously he had played professional football for Southend United, Brentford, Gillingham, Walsall and Swindon Town. He left the club after this one game. At the beginning of February 2007 he signed for Torquay United, but was not there in August 2007 after the club were relegated. He went to Barnet in early August 2007 but was only there one day before being released, Great Wakering Rovers signed him on 24th August 2007. He left the Essex club after only a few weeks and signed for St Albans City, however on 18th October 2007 a deal was agreed for him to sign a contract at AFC until the end of the 2007/08 season. On 22nd May 2008 Margate announced he had joined them as player/coach for 2008/09.

Apps 27 Subs 7 Goals 4


Ben Smythe
Young defender released by West Bromwich Albion, came to AFC in December 1999. He played only one full game for the club and was released in February 2000. Son of Paul Smythe a former Sudbury Town player.

Apps 2 Subs 3 Goals 0


Tony Spearing
A vastly experienced Football League defender who played for Norwich City, Leicester City, Plymouth Argyle, Stoke City and Peterborough United. ‘Spearo’ went to King’s Lynn and became player manager but was relieved of his duties in March 2002. He joined AFC and played his first game on 1st April 2002, a player with a cultured left foot. His last game was in the F.A. Vase final of 2002/03. He was not re-signed at the start of season 2003/04 and joined Great Yarmouth Town where he was voted Player of the Year. At the start of season 2004/05 he signed for Wisbech Town and unfortunately scored an own goal which was the winner in his debut game for them. In October 2004 was released from Wisbech after a change of manager. At the start of the 2005/06 season was helping with coaching at Cambridge United, and then was appointed their assistant manager. He signed a new contact towards the end of the 2005/06 season, but after the club failed to win any of the first six games of the 2006/07 season he was sacked along with manager Rob Newman on 1st September 2006. In August 2007 he was believed to be working for Blackburn Rovers as their European Scout.

Apps 50 Subs 8 Goals 2

Matt Stace
A central defender who played previously for Harwich & Parkeston and in season 2006/07 Wivenhoe Town. He played on 14th July 2007 against AFC for Harwich and the following week was in the AFC side that played at Leiston. He performed well and was signed on a one year deal after the game. He became unsettled during January 2008 and on 19th February 2008 he was released from his contract and signed for Harwich & Parkeston. On 23rd March 2008 he signed for Heybridge Swifts.

Apps 27 Subs 8 Goals 1

Daryl Stiff
A young central defender who joined from Stowmarket Town in August 1999, played few games but was injury prone and released in February 2000. In season 2005/06 he was playing for Stowupland in the Suffolk and Ipswich League and played against AFC Reserves in the final of the Suffolk Junior Cup at Portman Road in April 2006.

Apps 17 Subs 1 Goals 0

Danny Stokes
A fast running front man who signed for AFC from Long Melford on 3rd March 2007 where he had been their leading scorer with eleven goals from 24 games, he previously played for Foxash Social. ‘Stokesy’ played for the reserves during the rest of the 2006/07 but was named as a substitute on 3rd April 2007 for the first team, his first appearance for them was 11th September 2007 again as a substitute. He won the Ridgeons Reserve League Top Scorer award for season 2007/08.


Apps Subs Goals


Micky Stratton
A midfielder who played for Keith Martin at all his clubs, Cornard United, Halstead Town and Braintree Town before joining AFC in August 1999. ‘Strats’ could play in a number of positions, was mainly used as a fullback or in midfield. Suffered an injury in February 2001 and it was thought he would retire, but he made a comeback for Long Melford. He did retire at the start of the 2003/04 season. At the start of the 2006/07 season was playing Sunday League football for the Northcroft Sudbury. On 24th March 2007 he returned to King's Marsh to play in goal for the Reserves. He continued to play Sunday League football in season 2007/08.

Apps 64 Subs 12 Goals 1


Russell Tanner
A left back who spent many years at Braintree Town before going to Heybridge Swifts from where he signed for AFC in October 2001. In season 2002/03 found his opportunities limited and left in December 2002 for Witham Town. At the start of season 2003/04 he became their assistant manager and was still there at the start of 2004/05. In 2005/06 he was promoted to first team manager at Witham. They gained promotion to the Ryman League Division One North in season 2006/07. On 30th September 2006 he resigned from the manager’s position, due to financial cuts at the club. In the middle of November 2006 he was appointed assistant manager at Maldon Town. At the end of the 2006/07 season he was appointed manager of the club and was still there at the start of the 2007/08 season.

Apps 43 Subs 9 Goals 0


Ross Taylor
Midfielder who was previously with Arsenal as a youth team player, ‘Roscoe’ signed from Heybridge Swifts at the start of the 2002/03, although made debut in charity game against Hollyoaks X1. His other clubs included Stevenage Borough and Chelmsford City. He will be remembered for his very strange haircuts. Was not re-signed at the start of season 2003/04 and joined Wivenhoe Town was still with them in season 2004/05. He was not re-signed in 2005/06.

Apps 44 Subs 5 Goals 1


Mark Theobald
‘Sparky’ was a regular member of the club’s reserve side where he played in most positions. He made his first team debut when he came on as a substitute at Swaffham on 17th November 2001. At the end of the 2002/03 season he was the winner of the Reserve Team Player’s Player of the year award. At the start of season 2003/04 was made captain of the club’s reserve side and signed Ridgeons League forms in September 2003. At the start of October 2003 he was lured to Black Horse Lane and joined Cornard United and was still there at the start of season 2004/05. In March 2005 he signed for Sudbury Athletic, but at the start of the 2005/06 season was back with AFC signing to play in the reserve, however towards the end of the season he won a recall to the first team and played a number of games. He was back in season 2006/07 and made two substitute appearances. At the end of the season he won the Players Player of the Year award, but never returned to the club at the start of the 2007/08 season. In December 2007 he played a game for Sudbury Athlectic.

Apps 8 Subs 5 Goals 0


Gary Thompson
A much travelled player who was on Ipswich Town’s books as well as at Sudbury Town, Woodbridge Town and Felixstowe. Mainly a defensive midfield man ‘Tommo’ signed for AFC in November 2002 and had the dubious distinction of being sent off on his debut against Clacton. Made only token appearances and as a result went to Wivenhoe Town at the start of season 2003/04, but in December 2003 he re signed for AFC. On 1st April 2004 he transferred to Clacton Town. He however appeared once again in an AFC shirt this time as a guest player in a pre-season game in Dublin in August 2004. Woodbridge Town was his club from the start of season 2004/05 played a few games but was injured. At the start of the 2007/08 season it was announced that he was the manager of Whitton United Reserves. On 25th October 2007 he was promoted to manager of their first team and the club won promotion at the end of the season.

Apps 12 Subs 1 Goals 0


Ricky Thurlow
A young striker who came from youth football to play for the reserves and made one apperance in an Eastern Floodlight fixture in season 2004/05. He left the club and went to Hadleigh United and in 2005/06 and 2006/07 was at Capel Plough, but stopped playing for them halfway through the season. In November 2007 he was playing for Capel Plough Reserves.

Apps 1 Subs 0 Goals 0


Chris Tracey
Had been captain at Sudbury Town up to amalgamation and came to the new club with a great deal of enthusiasm. Was made captain in the first season and won the Supporters and the First Team Manager’s Player of the Year in 1999/00. A tall central defender had previously played at Harwich and had trials at Colchester and at one time interested Millwall. ‘Lurch’ was granted a testimonial game which he shared with Robert Sims, against West Ham at the start of season 2001/02, a man who does not like to lose. He was captain of the Vase final team of 2002/03 and Manager’s Player of the Year in the same season. At the start of November 2003 he signed a new contract keeping him at the club until the end of the 2004/05 season. Injuries took their toll and he was not selected for the F.A. Vase final squad of 2004/05 and afterwards decided he would leave the club. The club released him from his contract and he signed for Ipswich Wanderers in May 2005 and he played for them throughout that season. In a surprise move at the start of 2006/07 he joined Needham Market as player-manager. On 27th June 2007 he re-signed for AFC as a player on a one year contract. After some discussion he was allowed to leave on 30th January 2008 to join Long Melford, although AFC retained his Ryman registration. On 31st January he was unveiled as the new player/manager of Long Melford. On 2nd April 2008 he re-appeared in an AFC shirt as a substitute in the Ryman League Cup Final. On 15th April it was announced that he was to be the Stanway Rovers manager for 2008/09 and had left Long Melford, on the same day he was an unused substitute for AFC. He remained with AFC until the end of the season. On 18th May he resigned as the Stanway Rovers manager to become assistant manager at AFC to new manager Nicky Smith.

Apps 312 Subs 32 Goals 18


James Vandecar
Made his one and only appearance on 1st September 2001 when regular’ keeper Ben Nower was unavailable due to new car sales! Let in three goals against Swaffham and looked a little rusty to say the least. Not seen again, however he joined the Essex Police and in May 2007 was a Sergeant serving in Witham. On the first day of the Ridgeons League season 2007/08, 11th August 2007 he played for Ipswich Wanderers, however by December 2007 he was no longer with the club.

Apps 1 Subs 0 Goals 0


David Walton
‘Walts’ joined the club at the start of season 1999/00 and was the regular goalkeeper. He had been a youth team player at West Ham and Watford. Joined Sudbury Town went to Baldock Town before joining AFC. Made some great saves but was prone to make some silly mistakes and was transferred to Haverhill Rovers in December 2000 for £100 plus vat! At the start of season 2003/04 signed for Halstead Town where he stayed until the end of the 2004/05 season. In June 2005 he signed for Newmarket Town, were he played in season 2005/06. He however at the start of 2006/07 signed for his hometown club of Haverhill Rovers, but his appearances were limited due to a knee injury. The start of the season 2007/08 saw him re-sign for AFC to play mainly in the reserves.

Apps 64 Subs 1 Goals 0


Shane Wardley
He joined AFC on 18th January 2004 from Cambridge City after being released from his contract. It was his second spell there after joining from Chelmsford City, he was sold to Southend United when David Webb paid £5000 for him and returned in the 2002 close season. Made his debut as a sub against Maldon on 20th January 2004 and his first start four days later at Soham. In the 2004/05 F.A. Vase final he scored at both end against Didcot Town. At the end of the 2004/05 season he was voted Supporters Player of the Year and also the Player’s Player of the Year, he remained with the club throughout 2005/06 and was still there in 2006/07 and he played throughout it. At the start of the 2007/08 season he was still at the club and played throughout it. He left at the end of the season and signed for Leiston on a two year contract on 16th June 2008.

Apps 242 Subs 6 Goals 7


Dave Webster
A young forward who moved to the Sudbury area in 2004 and had previously played for Dagenham & Redbridge Reserves, at the start of the 2004/05 season he joined AFC. He played in the reserves and played in three Eastern Floodlight League games. At the end of the season he won both the Young Player of the Year and Top Scorer awards. He was given a chance with the first team squad at the start of the 2005/06 season but in September 2005 he joined Tilbury, a club a lot near his new home in Romford.

Apps 3 Subs 0 Goals 1


Jonathan Whight
Joined the club in the early part of season 2001/02 from Cockfield United and played as a central defender for the reserves. He showed promise and was called upon to play in the first team making his debut as a substitute at Swaffham on 17th November 2001. Made only two other appearances both as a substitute. He was ‘Young Player of the Year in season 2001/02. Suffered from head injury late in season and never returned, but did play again for Cockfield United. He was still playing for them in 2006/07 and was again in 2007/08.

Apps 3 Subs 1 Goals 0


Jack Wignall
A strong central defender who joined AFC from Wivenhoe Town on 28th February 2007 aged 25. He started his playing career at Colchester United before joining Dagenham and Redbridge, and the Cambridge City and Chelmsford City before joining Wivenhoe in 2003. His father played professionally for a number of clubs including Colchester United. Made his debut on 3rd March 2007 and played until the end of the season. He returned for pre-season training, but on the 21st July 2007 asked to be placed on the transfer list, the request was granted. On the eve of the season, 17th August 2007 he was released from his contract and became a free agent. On 21st August he signed for Heybridge Swifts, but a few weeks later was transferred to Redbridge.

Apps 14 Subs 0 Goals 1


Aaron Williams
He joined the club towards the end of the 2003/04 season as a sixteen year old and then played in the Eastern Floodlight League Final at the start of the 2004/05 season and a couple of other games in the same competition. A midfielder suffered a knee injury in 2006/07 that required an operation and in May 2007 was still on crutches.

Apps 2 Subs 0 Goals 0


Ashley Williams
Joined at the start of the 2004/05 a young forward who played mainly for the reserves but did manage one Eastern Floodlight game.

Apps 1 Subs 0 Goals 0


Ashley Wilson
A midfield youngster who came from the under 18’s to play in midfield in February 2003 in an East Anglian Cup tie at Long Melford. ‘Ash’ signed Ridgeons League forms for the club in September 2003. Won both the Reserves Players of the Year
and the Young Player of the Year awards at the end of season 2003/04 after which he was rewarded with his first contract. He made his first competitive appearance on 28th August 2004 coming on in an F.A. Cup tie against Haringey Borough. He sustained a knee injury that needed an operation the start of the 2005/06 season and did not play for the club again. He did not have the operation on his knee until 2007 and had played no football at all up to 24th March 2007. In November 2007 he was playing for Sudbury Athletic.

Apps 11 Subs 10 Goals 1


AS AT 03/07/2008



APPEARANCES AND GOAL SCORERS

Below are the appearances for players that have left the club. These figures include some Eastern Floodlight games that were at the time classed as first teams fixtures.


Paul Betson 376
Andy Claydon 360
David Head 326
Chris Tracey 313
Lee Owen 289
Lee Norfolk 268
Simon Hyde 265
Brett Girling 248
Gary Bennett 243
Shane Wardley 242
Sam Banya 228
Aaron Gardiner 215
Neil Calver 205
Michael Cheetham 204
Steve Day 178
Chris Howlett 170
Ben Nower 164
Dean Greygoose 127
Brian Devereux 115
John Bishop 102
Nathan Munson 92
James Rowe 84
Tommy Noble 80
Darren Bethell 69
Ricky Cornish 69
Robbie Devereux 68
Micky Stratton 64
Simon Head 62
Matt Proctor 62
Paul Abrahams 56
Adie Hayes 56
Paul Rutherford 55
Jamie Howe 53
Dean Francis 53
Stuart Boardley 50
John Pollard 50
Tony Spearing 50
Pip Boyland 47
Robert Sims 47
Matt Dixon 45
Andy Smiles 46
Ross Taylor 44
Gary Setchell 44
Russell Tanner 43
Tom English 39
Danny Cunningham 38
Richard Codling 35
Chris Bacon 33
Paul Smith 27
Matt Stace 27
Wayne Anderson 26
Michael Brothers 25
Gareth Simpson 23
Dean Neil 19
Darryl Stiff 17
Kevin Hughes 15
Jack Wignall 14
Jermaine Harewood 12
Trevor Gunn 12
Gary Thompson 12
Donald George 12
Ashley Wilson 11
Ozie Foster 11
Richard Heller 10
Mark Roper 9
Phil Battell 9
Mark Theobald 8
Stuart Crawford 8
Michael Bavester 7
Ben Patrick 7
Muzzie Elmer 5
Liam Harrold 5
Tommy Bradlaugh 4
Barry Simpson 4
Ian Manby 3
David Daniels 3
Danny Barber 3
Dave Webster 3
Craig Boon 3
Darren Frost 3
Jon Whight 3
Chris Cowan 3
Mathew Mann 2
Aaron Williams 2
Tony Bruce 2
Gavin Brightwell 2
Gary Bloomfield 2
Graeme Oakes 2
Darren Pratt 2
Lee Rayner 2
Steve Greaves 2
Ben Smytrhe 2
Stuart Alston 1
Ryan Bedingfield 1
Steve Benson 1
Marcus Bier 1
Dennis Fenemore 1
Andy Fletcher 1
Chris Jackson 1
Adrian Kemsley 1
Nicky Marlow 1
Will Morris 1
Wayne Pannell 1
Ashley Skeggs 1
Ashley Williams 1
James Vandecar 1
AS AT 02/07/2008

Below are the goals scored by players that have left the club, these are for competative games only.

Gary Bennett 172
Andy Claydon 160
Sam Banya 135
Lee Owen 92
Brian Devereux 79
David Head 66
Lee Norfolk 55
Steve Day 53
James Rowe 48
Neil Calver 46
Paul Betson 45
Simon Hyde 30
Tommy Noble 30
Michael Cheetham 27
Tom English 21
Andy Smiles 20
Matt Dixon 18
Chris Tracey 18
Paul Abrahams 14
Darren Bethell 14
Aaron Gardiner 12
John Bishop 12
Robbie Devereux 11
Dean Francis 11
Simon Head 10
Chris Howlett 10
Stuart Boardley 9
Ricky Cornish 9
Danny Cunningham 9
Adie Hayes 7
Shane Wardley 7
Chris Bacon 6
Robert Sims 6
John Pollard 4
Ben Patrick 4
Paul Smith 4
Michael Brothers 3
Wayne Anderson 2
Brett Girling 2
Liam Harrold 2
Tony Spearing 2
Richard Heller 1
Tony Bruce 1
Stuart Crawford 1
David Daniels 1
Muzzie Elmer 1
Donald George 1
Trevor Gunn 1
Gary Setchell 1
Gareth Simpson 1
Matt Stace 1
Micky Stratton 1
Ross Taylor 1
Dave Webster 1
Ashley Wilson 1
Jack Wignall 1
As At 02/07/2008