Ashby Ivanhoe FC News

West Bridgford 1-3 Ashby Ivanhoe FC

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 07:09:08 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe progress to the next round of the League Cup after an impressive win on the road.

Ashby Ivanhoe booked their place in the next round of the cup with a 3–1 victory away at West Bridgford on Saturday, in a performance full of energy, discipline, and clinical finishing.

After a fairly even opening to the game, the breakthrough came in the 32nd minute when in-form forward Rumai Johnson, who has continued to shine following a standout debut against Belper, latched onto a chance inside the box and finished smartly to give Ivanhoe the lead.

Just before the interval, Ashby doubled their advantage in spectacular fashion. Ellis Edwards broke up play from the back line superbly before sliding the ball to Will Robson, who took one look at goal from 30 yards and unleashed a thumping strike into the back of the net.

Johnson struck again early in the second half to make it 3–0, but West Bridgford responded well and pulled a goal back on the hour mark to reduce the deficit. The home side looked to build momentum after scoring, though the game evened out in the closing stages with chances at both ends.

There were strong individual displays across the pitch, with veteran centre-half Henry Eze commanding at the back, Will Robson impressing with both work rate and flair in midfield, and two-goal hero Rumai Johnson continuing his fine form. In the end it was Ellis Edwards who earned the fans’ Player of the Match vote, rewarded for his tireless defensive work and vital role in the second goal.

Ashby march on, full of confidence and momentum, with their supporters treated to a performance full of commitment and quality. The travelling Ashby fans made themselves heard throughout, providing fantastic backing on the road.

Next up for Ashby Ivanhoe is an away clash on Saturday against top of the table side, Kimberley Miners Welfare, as Lee’s lads look to continue to build momentum.

Author: Callum McKindley

Melton Town FC 3-2 Ashby Ivanhoe FC

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 11:37:49 GMT

An improved and spirited Ashby display went unrewarded at Sign Right Park, as the hosts

Melton Town held on to win a thriller.

Melton hit Ashby with a rapid onslaught from the first whistle, scoring in the 5 th and 7 th

minute through two clinical finishes capitalising on a freshly put together Ashby defence

which wasn’t allowed anytime to gel in the early stages.

Despite the potentially startling first ten minutes, Ashby bounced back brilliantly, showing

signs of incredible resilience and perseverance, two elements that will be key to them

turning around their start of the season fortunes and fighting their way back up the league

table.

Ashby’s determination to get back into the game was rewarded in the 27 th minute through a

lovely piece of link up play on the edge of the box between Jordan Edwards and Will

Robson, in which a one-two round the corner left Robson one-on-one with the Melton

goalkeeper where he finished calmly into the bottom right corner to give Ashby a fighting

chance to come back.

Ashby’s well deserved goal gave The Knights a spring in their step heading into the break

which also followed into the beginning of the second half, resulting in an array of chances

that on another day could’ve been put away. A couple fell to Kartel O’Neill-Martin who was

really unlucky not to score in the 49 th minute through a whipped effort from outside the box

that was sensationally tipped around the post.

Despite all the pressure, Ashby were pegged back to a two goal deficit against the run of

play in the 57 th minute as a result of a scramble in the six yard box which ended with a

scuffed shot bouncing up into the roof of the net, reinforcing that the rub of the green just

wasn’t with Ivanhoe on the day.

Just over ten minutes later, Ashby were given a lifeline through goalkeeper Alex Graham

who brilliantly prevented the hosts going 4-1 up from the spot. One of a selection of key

moments from the number one which kept Ashby within reach of Melton.

As the game progressed, Ashby kept chipping away whilst substitutes impressed on the

whole, who stretched the opponent’s defence at times. Eventually Ashby got another goal,

an incredible one at that and a potential goal of the season contender by Roman Watson-

Quilter who’s thunderbolt was fired into the top left corner from outside the box, rounding

off a man of the match performance from the new right back.

But sadly, it was too little too late in the 95 th minute for Ivanhoe who couldn’t find an

equaliser despite their very best efforts.

Positives to take and a performance that certainly puts the team on an uphill trajectory

going into the bank holiday weekend in which Ivanhoe host both Heanor Town and Clay

Cross Town at the Element Ground on Saturday and Monday respectively, both kicking off at

3pm.

Author: Leo Bennett

Ashby Ivanhoe 1-2 Boston Town

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 10:48:55 GMT

Ashby’s home fixture against Boston Town started with early controversy as, in just the second minute, the visitors were awarded a penalty. Harley Kozluk was judged to have upended a Boston player just inside the area while attempting to clear the ball — a marginal decision. The visitors were denied the lead, however, when Alex Graham dived low to his left to pull off a superb save.

The hosts struggled to get a foothold early on, with their only notable chance coming from a corner when Louis Anthony rose highest, only to see his header saved. Graham was again called into action on 27 minutes, producing a stunning double save to keep Boston at bay.

Ashby began to settle, and two minutes later took the lead. Sam Birks picked up the ball midway inside the Boston half, spotted keeper Portas off his line, and unleashed a superb 30-yard lob that sailed into the net. Birks was close to doubling the advantage shortly afterwards, forcing another save, before Ivanhoe were left frustrated when a strong penalty appeal was waved away after Will Robson appeared to be tripped in the box. Graham ensured the hosts went into half-time in front with another key save just before the break.

Boston struck back almost immediately after the restart, with Zac Munton finishing from close range to level the scores. Tyler Smith had a great chance to restore the lead on 65 minutes but saw his shot saved, and two minutes later the match swung in Boston’s favour. Graham was adjudged to have bundled over Matt Cotton while clearing the ball, and the referee again pointed to the spot. This time, Alex Limb converted to make it 1–2.

Ivanhoe pushed hard for an equaliser in the final stages, with manager Lee Barratt making several attacking changes, even sending centre-back Louis Anthony forward. Their best opportunity came late on when Taylor Wyse met a cross inside the six-yard box, but he couldn’t get a clean connection and his effort bounced tamely into the keeper’s hands.

Next up for Ivanhoe is an away trip to Melton on Saturday.

Encouraging Signs as Ashby Battles Hard Against Strong Eastwood Side

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:38:23 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe’s first home fixture of the new season ended in a 3-1 defeat to a sharp Eastwood CFC side, despite a determined first-half performance and some standout individual displays at The Element Ground.

The match got off to a lively start, with Ashby awarded an early penalty after an Eastwood handball. Sam Birks stepped up, but his spot-kick was well saved by the Eastwood goalkeeper, who guessed right and made a strong save to keep the game level.

Eastwood then turned the screws and sustained Ashby with a flurry of attacking play, having a couple of shots hit the woodwork and corners were plenty. Ashby replied in timely fashion, with Tyler Smith nearly breaking the deadlock after latching onto a precise ball from Dec Clarke, only to be denied by yet another smart save. Kartel O’Neill Martin also came desperately close as his attempt was cleared well off the line.

Eastwood opened the scoring, capitalising on a defensive error during a free kick to take the lead, but Ashby responded with real intent. A fantastic cross from Kartel O'Neill Martin found the head of Sam Birks, who made no mistake this time, powering home the equaliser to make it 1-1 going into half-time.

In the second half, Eastwood gradually took control, creating more chances and eventually retaking the lead. A third goal followed shortly after, giving the visitors a comfortable cushion as Ashby struggled to regain momentum.

Despite the final scoreline, there were positives to take for Ashby. Jesse Vowles put in a spirited shift in midfield, battling hard throughout and showing composure on the ball, while Ben Gough and Ellis Edwards held their own in defence, dealing well with pressure from a lively Eastwood attack.

It wasn’t the result Ashby hoped for in their first game at the newly named Element Ground, but with plenty of encouraging signs, including moments of quality and effort across the pitch, the team will look to bounce back stronger in their next fixture where they play Worcester Raiders away in the FA Cup this Saturday.

The club would also like to thank all the fans who turned out to support the team in our first home league game of the season. Your backing from the stands means a great deal to the players and staff, and we look forward to seeing you all again soon.

Ashby Ivanhoe FC Reveal 2025/26 UCL Premier Division Fixtures

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 13:03:23 GMT

�� 2025/26 Fixtures Released – A New Season Begins for Ashby Ivanhoe FC!

Ashby Ivanhoe FC are delighted to announce our full fixture list for the upcoming 2025/26 United

Counties League Premier Division North season.

Preparations are in full swing on and off the pitch and the release of the fixtures marks an exciting moment for all players, staff, and supporters. The countdown is officially on as we gear up for what promises to be a thrilling campaign in Step 5 of the National League System.

Manager Lee Barratt and the squad will be looking to make a strong statement from the very first whistle and continue building on from preseason.

Whether it’s tough away days or big home clashes under the lights at the Element Sports Ground, there’s no shortage of exciting battles ahead.

�� Key Dates for Your Diary:
We’ll begin our campaign 26/07/2025, and fans can already look forward to big fixtures, and a run-in as the season draws to a close that includes a local derby and Skegness away!

�� Full Fixture List

Deeping Rangers FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 26/7/2025

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Eastwood CFC – 19:45, Tue 29/7/2025

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Boston Town FC – 15:00, Sat 9/8/2025

Melton Town FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 19:45, Wed 13/8/2025

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Heanor Town FC – 15:00, Sat 23/8/2025

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Clay Cross Town FC – 15:00, Mon 25/8/2025

Blackstones FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 30/8/2025

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Belper United FC – 19:45, Tue 2/9/2025

Kimberley Miners Welfare FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 13/9/2025

Hucknall Town FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 19:45, Wed 17/9/2025
Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Harrowby United FC – 15:00, Sat 27/9/2025

Newark Town FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 4/10/2025

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Wisbech Town FC – 15:00, Sat 11/10/2025

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs AFC Mansfield – 19:45, Tue 21/10/2025

Sherwood Colliery FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 25/10/2025

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Skegness Town FC – 15:00, Sat 1/11/2025

Eastwood CFC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 20:00, Tue 4/11/2025

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Newark & Sherwood United FC – 15:00, Sat 8/11/2025

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Grantham Town FC – 15:00, Sat 15/11/2025

Clay Cross Town FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 22/11/2025

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Hucknall Town FC – 15:00, Sat 29/11/2025

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Deeping Rangers FC – 15:00, Sat 6/12/2025

Belper United FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 13/12/2025

Newark & Sherwood United FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 20/12/2025

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Gresley Rovers FC – 15:00, Sat 27/12/2025

Heanor Town FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 3/1/2026

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Blackstones FC – 15:00, Sat 10/1/2026

Harrowby United FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 17/1/2026

Boston Town FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 24/1/2026

AFC Mansfield vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 31/1/2026

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Melton Town FC – 15:00, Sat 7/2/2026

Grantham Town FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 14/2/2026

Wisbech Town FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 7/3/2026

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Sherwood Colliery FC – 15:00, Sat 14/3/2026

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Newark Town FC – 15:00, Sat 28/3/2026

Ashby Ivanhoe FC vs Kimberley Miners Welfare FC – 15:00, Sat 4/4/2026

Gresley Rovers FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Mon 6/4/2026

Skegness Town FC vs Ashby Ivanhoe FC – 15:00, Sat 11/4/2026

�� Get Behind the Team!
We’re calling on our loyal fanbase to be the 12th man once again this season. Your support makes the difference – home or away, rain or shine. Keep an eye out for ticket info, matchday promotions, and special events throughout the year.

Season tickets are still half price for home league games until the 31 ^st of August 2025, so come and claim yours now!

Stay connected across our social media channels and follow the journey as we look to make 2025/26 a season to remember.

Up the Ivanhoe! ��⚔️

Aylestone Park FC 3-0 Ashby Ivanhoe FC

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 12:31:47 GMT

Ivanhoe were undone by a well drilled and disciplined Aylestone Park side on a crisp Tuesday evening - a team that will expect to be challenging at the sharp end of their division this upcoming season.

Ivanhoe almost made the perfect start, with winger Tyler Smith bursting through within the opening minute, but he was unable to convert the chance.

As the game progressed, Aylestone had a clear, possession-based style of play which spread Ivanhoe and forced errors, enabling the home side to create chances. Their first goal came in the 9th minute following a tricky run down the right and a pacey cross that was converted through a sharp front post header - leaving goalkeeper Jay Rabone with little chance of saving.

Rabone was otherwise solid in the first half, coming off his line frequently to smother or clear attempted long balls by the home side. Ivanhoe suffered another injury blow in the early part of the game with defender Liam Donaghy being forced off following a knock, but on the whole, they were resolute in defence.

After the break, Ivanhoe began to create more chances and looked brighter going forward, however, the hosts’ scored a second goal came somewhat against the run of play, in the 66th minute. This came via a counterattack in which a heavy Ivanhoe challenge on the edge of the box fell to an opposition attacker. The resulting shot was deflected away from Alex Graham in the Ashby goal and went in low at the near post.

In the 79th minute, the game was sealed for Aylestone as a Jacob Sturgess back pass didn’t have the legs to reach Graham in goal, and was pounced upon by the attacker, who took it around the stranded Graham and slotted into the empty Ivanhoe net.

Despite the result, there were positives for Ivanhoe. Jesse Vowles impressed with another battling midfield display, while the energetic performances of forwards Sam Birks and Taylor Wyse will give Ivanhoe hope for the coming season.

Onto Saturday then, when Ivanhoe welcome Loughborough Students to The Element Ground for the penultimate pre-season fixture.

Author: Leo Bennett

Ashby Ivanhoe FC 2-3 Dudley Town Football Club

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 12:27:47 GMT

Late disappointment for Ivanhoe as an impressive performance goes sadly unrewarded at the hands of two 90th minute counter attacking goals.

Ivanhoe dominated the early phases of the altercation, which is becoming quite the trend, and once again it resulted in a 1-0 lead, this time thanks to a calmly slotted penalty by impressive debutant Sam Birks.

The first goal felt well deserved for Ivanhoe, as a handball shout in the Dudley box was adjudged not to be worthy of a spot kick, a passage of play which was followed by a disallowed Will Robson goal after a lovely piece of skill by Kartel O’Neill-Martin driving into the box from the left flank.

In the latter phases of the first 45 Dudley forced a lot more pressure on Ivanhoe, leading to plenty of last-ditch defending by centre backs Caden Pegg and Liam Donaghy who was a defensive warrior, keeping Ivanhoe in the game on many occasions. However, despite an array of quality blocks in the build-up, the Ashby defence were unlucky to concede a scrappy equaliser. A dampener on the second half alongside Josh Thomas being forced off early through injury.

The second half was a very even contest, with both sides having plenty of promising offensive chances. Jay Rabone had a lot of work to do in the Ivanhoe goal, with some spectacular saves.

Ivanhoe were the rapid starters once again as Jack Henchcliffe had a low driven effort tipped around the post from long range. The resulting corner was played short into O’Neill-Martin, who swung his cross in with immense pace to find Sam Birks at the near post, who fired his header past the keeper to complete his brace and restore the lead imminently after the break.

Ashby once again gave minutes to their youth contingent on the bench who impressed, in the 89th minute Ellis Edwards and Tyler Smith linked up beautifully, but the shot from the latter was saved. The resulting corner was unproductive for Ivanhoe though, and Dudley quickly broke and equalised, potentially taking advantage of some fatigued Ivanhoe legs at the back. But the worst was yet to come for Ivanhoe as another Dudley counter attacking goal stole any sort of a result from Ivanhoe’s grasp as the most impressive Ivanhoe performance of pre-season so far went completely unrewarded.

I caught up with debutant brace-scorer Sam Birks post game, who explained that the style of play suits him down to the ground and that he thought he had to take the early penalty, I suspect that the game for him personally did his confidence a huge amount of good going into the season. The talisman went on to say that the morale amongst the group is ‘only getting better’ and that they’ve ‘only been improving in all of the games’, his words on the group alongside his ambition of ‘playoffs, simple as that’ certainly provides a huge amount of hope to the fan base, and suggests that this team have a lot to give and in a terrific place going into the season.

Author: Leo Bennett

GNG Oadby Town FC 1-1 Ashby Ivanhoe FC (08/07/2025)

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 16:20:15 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe FC got off to a flying start, with Jordan Wilson scoring after just 19 minutes. Jesse Vowles, the new midfielder, was instrumental in the goal, winning the ball back and setting up Will Robson to find Wilson, who calmly slotted the ball past the keeper.

However, the lead was short-lived, as GNG Oadby equalized later in the first half. Vowles was unfortunate to be involved in the error that led to the goal, but his performance was otherwise outstanding. He was a midfield dynamo, showing tenacity, bravery, and creativity.

Despite dominating the game, Ashby couldn't find a winner. They had numerous corner kicks and free kicks, with Jack Henchcliffe's delivery from set pieces causing problems for the opposition. The front two of Wilson and Wyse were impressive, holding up the ball well and creating chances for their teammates.

The game became increasingly intense, with some questionable refereeing decisions and a yellow card given in the 84th minute. Despite this, Ashby will be pleased with their progress, especially the impact of their youth players. The team is building momentum ahead of the new season, and the experience gained from these friendly matches will be invaluable.

- Leo Bennett

Allexton & New Parks FC 0-1 Ashby Ivanhoe FC

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 19:51:59 GMT

A classic game of two halves was won early by Ivanhoe thanks to a classy finish by fan

favourite Will Robson, successfully beating the offside trap and getting onto the end of one

of Josh Thomas’ many well whipped crosses into the box.

In the first 45, a lot of Ashby’s success came from down the flanks, with Thomas and Kartel

O’Neill-Martin getting the better of their respective full-backs consistently. This alongside

Robson’s stellar skill and creativity resulted in a lot of free flowing attacking football creating

lots of chances for Ivanhoe. With the latter coming extremely close from a free-kick in the

12th minute, amongst an array of close chances including a lovely piece of skill to take on

two defenders in one resulting in a well saved strike from outside the box.

Considering the majority of the Ashby starting XI being debutants, the cohesion and

structure specifically defensively was incredibly impressive, a solid start to pre-season with a

clean sheet, with Jay Rabone making some solid saves in the second half.

However, the home side were far more prevalent in the second half and epitomised the

idiom that there’s no such thing as a friendly, leaving Ivanhoe frustrated with some of the

challenges and refereeing decisions, including what looked to be a stone-wall penalty on

Robson as he was tripped in the box during the 60th minute.

Despite this, Ivanhoe battled hard and earned their victory well, the first under new

manager Lee Barratt, who will be happy with the experience gained by young players and

new signings who got some important minutes throughout the game.

Plenty of positives for Ivanhoe on the whole, and they will be looking to further improve on

many positive signs shown during the match when they travel to GNG Oadby Town FC on

Tuesday night.

Written by Leo Bennett

Directors Update January 2025

Sat, 25 Jan 2025 17:14:14 GMT

On behalf of AIFC CIC, the board of Directors and senior management team would like to welcome all from Newark Town together with our own supporters to the NFU Mutual Sports Ground.

Since our last update, the ground improvement works have significantly progressed and we would like to take this opportunity to advise you on the progress of each project.

Sports pitches, car park and improvements to access
The creation of the new junior football pitches has been completed in September and is currently in the maintenance period. Currently, it is planned that the new pitches will be used for the first time at our Junior tournaments planned for June 2025, earlier than anticipated.

Works to the car park and new access have been delayed further. As reported in our last update, this is due to subsidence issues with Lower Packington Road adjacent to the current entrance and the club is still waiting for Leicestershire County Council to investigate and confirm liability for any costs associated with any remedials.

The club are also pleased to be able to report that new car park lighting will be installed over the coming weeks with monies raised through fund raising initiatives. This will improve the safety of everyone that visits our facilities at night.

New clubhouse roof, new changing rooms and perimeter fencing
The new perimeter fencing has been installed to two sides of the first team pitch. We are targeting getting the remaining sides installed ready for next season, funds permitting.

The construction of the new changing rooms with a completion date planned for the start of the 2025/2026 season.

On behalf of AIFC CIC, we would personally like to thank everyone for your support and all of the companies that have supported the ground development plans to date.

If you wish to know more about the ground development works or can offer support in anyway, please feel free to find us and ask any questions you may have.

Thanks and come on Ashby Ivanhoe.

Jon, Neil, Derrick, Mark and Chris
AIFC CIC Directors

Directors Update November 2024

Sat, 02 Nov 2024 17:08:26 GMT

First of all, on behalf of AIFC CIC, the board of Directors and senior management team would like to welcome all from Harrowby United to the NFU Mutual Sports Ground. This match marks the long awaited return to First Team league football after we have needed to play our home games at Quorn last season and away from home for the start of the 2024/2025 season.

Since our last update on the clubs redevelopment plans, events have significantly moved on and we would like to take this opportunity to update you on the progress of the two current planning applications.

Planning application – 22/01811/FULM – Sports pitches, car park and improvements to access
Following the lengthy planning process, we are pleased to announce that the creation of the new junior football pitches commenced at the end of August and were completed within a 3 week period. The grass is beginning to grow and it is planned that the new pitches will be ready for the summer of 2026.

Works to the car park and new access have been delayed. This is due to subsidence issues with Lower Packington Road adjacent to the current entrance and the club is waiting for Leicestershire County Council to investigate and provide a report into the problem as necessary.

Planning application – 22/01811/FULM – New clubhouse roof, new changing rooms, extension to covered seating area and new hardstanding.

Ground grading works are complete and you now have the ability to be able to stand behind the far goal supporting the team.

A new walkway behind the ‘shed end drinkers’ stand has been created together with additional seats to the David Morris stand.

Additional perimeter fencing which will separate the main first team pitch from the adjacent pitches/training areas is to be installed in the coming weeks.

The construction of the new changing rooms has commenced and the creation of this will massively improve the facilities at our ground. Subject to additional funding becoming available, the intention is for the changing rooms to be completed by the end of 2024.

On behalf of AIFC CIC, we would personally like to thank everyone for your support during the planning application process together with all of the companies that have supported the ground development plans to date. We will continue with our plans to create a facility that we all can be proud of.

Off the field, we are pleased to announce that in the summer, Mark Scrivener and Chris Palmer joined the CIC structure, becoming Non-Executive Directors to support the current Directors, their addition will be very beneficial for the development of the club off the field.

If you wish to know more about the ground development works, please feel free to find us and ask any questions you may have.

Thanks and come on Ashby Ivanhoe

Jon, Neil and Derrick

AIFC CIC Directors

Kimberley MW 0-1 AIFC

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 00:29:52 GMT

Ivanhoe secured their place in the next round of the Sports Ground Development UCL Cup last night through Sam Grouse’s second half goal!

It was an excellent performance from front to back and the boys could have won by significantly more, as Grouse saw a chance narrowly go over the bar and one come off the post!

At home, the Knights put in a good performance against a higher level opposition, but that game ended with Heather coming out on top winning 3-0.

Now onto Saturday when our focus switches back to the league, as the first team host Melton Town at the NFU, and the Knights travel to Cottesmore!

𝐊𝐍𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐆𝐄𝐑 𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐃

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 00:27:57 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe are pleased to be able to announce Malcom Woodings as the new Manager of the Knights.

Although Malcom has only been at the club a relatively short time, his enthusiasm and appreciation of the culture of Ashby Ivanhoe has impressed everyone.

Malcom’s first game in charge will be this Saturday away to Barrow Town, with his first game at the NFU the following Saturday when we host Highfield Rangers.

All at the club give him their full support and wish him well in his new role.

Hucknall Town 2-1 AIFC

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 00:26:01 GMT

The boys put in a much improved second half display but ultimately a tough opening 45 minutes cost us as we went in at the break 2 down.

We came out the blocks quick second half and Holmes and Grouse both had efforts that narrowly went over the bar.

Ivanhoe were finally able to make a breakthrough 17 minutes from time as the Town goalkeeper collided with Carta, with Grouse stepping up to convert from the spot.

Moments later Acott was clean through and was hacked down by the last Hucknall defender, who was shown red. We however were unable to take advantage and couldn’t grab a late equaliser.

We go again on Saturday, when we host Bilston in the FA Vase Second Round Qualifying at the NFU, thanks to all those that travelled over tonight to support the lads!

AIFC 1-0 Boston Town

Sat, 16 Sep 2023 00:24:48 GMT

After a stop-start first half where neither side could really take control of the game, the lads came out and took it up a level in the second period to take all 3 points!

The goal came as Will Robson did fantastic down the left wing to cut back and find Joel Carta in the box, Carta found space with a great first touch and slotted across goal into the far corner of the net!

Moments later the ball was in the net again and it looked to have been 2 but Carta was adjudged to have been offside from the James Harrison cross (see last photo…)!

The back line were tested by a physical Boston side but remained faultless, earning themselves and Sam Taylor in nets another clean sheet!

Overall a well earned 3 points - well done lads!

Next up we visit Hucknall Town on Wednesday night!

AFC Mansfield 0-6 AIFC

Sat, 09 Sep 2023 00:23:25 GMT

Ivanhoe storm into the next round of the Sports Ground Development UCL Cup with a fantastic performance in the roasting heat!

Braces for both Danny Quinn and Sam Grouse, as well as goals from James Harrison and Will Robson get the job done for Ivanhoe!

Next up, the boys finally return to league action as we host Boston Town next Saturday!

AIFC 0-2 Bromsgrove Sporting

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 00:22:10 GMT

Our The Emirates FA Cup Journey ends but the lads can be proud of the performance they put in today!

We went toe to toe with Step 3 opposition for the majority of the game but were ultimately undone through a first half penalty kick and a second half header!

Our visitors were reduced to 10 men after the goalkeeper caught a back pass on the line to deny a goal scoring opportunity, but we couldn’t quite make the final ball work to take advantage in the final 20 minutes.

All in all, plenty of positives to take from it and a great showing from our boys - on a different day who knows how it could have gone!

Thanks to the 391 that turned up to support the boys, your support was great and we look forward to see you back at the NFU on the 16th September when we host Boston Town!

All the best to Bromsgrove Sporting FC in the next round, and at least that’s the date for Skeggy away on the 30th September now confirmed!

Belper United 4-3 AIFC

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 00:20:36 GMT

A tough one to take tonight, 3-1 up and cruising with just minutes left to play but somehow Belper end up turning it around completely scoring 3 in 6 minutes to take maximum points.

The 3 brilliant Ivanhoe goals came from Sam Grouse, Joe Neal and Joel Carta, it sounds ridiculous to say given the result but we were absolutely superb to watch for the majority of the game!

Thanks to everyone that came and supported the boys, 75% of the crowd must have been Ashby and we take more away than some get at home, please be assured that that’s never taken for granted!

We now go again on Saturday, at home to Bromsgrove Sporting in the next round of the FA Cup!

AIFC 1-0 Rossington Main

Sat, 19 Aug 2023 00:17:49 GMT

A second half strike from Sam Grouse sends Ivanhoe into the next round of the FA Cup!

It was a tight encounter that swung our way in the second 45 half of the game, and our pressure paid off when the again sensational Will Robson played in Grouse who cut inside and finished off calmly!

A great crowd of 233 considering that both Leicester and Derby at home too - the support 2nd half pushed the lads on!

A date for the diary - First Round Qualifying- 2nd September!

GET INNNNNNN!!

AIFC 3-0 Kimberley MW

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 00:16:06 GMT

Another battling performance from the boys who came out 2nd half and totally dominated, taking our chances and defending brilliantly to earn another clean sheet!

Goals from James Harrison, Joel Carta and Sam Grouse, all great strikes in front of a strong midweek crowd of 179!

See you again Saturday, in the Preliminary Round of the FA Cup!

Match report to follow tomorrow!

Wisbech Town FC 0-2 AIFC

Sat, 12 Aug 2023 00:14:46 GMT

A sensational afternoon in Norfolk, all over them first half and deservedly took the lead!

Our first goal came as Ash Garner played a brilliant looping ball into the path of Will Robson, Robson combined with Dan Quinn with the move finished off by Robson smashing his shot in off the far post!

Town fought back in the first 20 minutes of the second half and put us under pressure, but Sam Taylor in nets and the Ivanhoe back line stayed resilient to the long balls, throws and corner kicks faced!

With just under 20 minutes to play, we took full control as Sam Grouse drove down the left wing, and his pulled back cross was bundled over the line by the Wisbech centre half (who was shortly after sent off..!).

Absolutely class - happy birthday gaffer!

AIFC 3-0 Deeping Rangers FC

Sat, 05 Aug 2023 00:11:49 GMT

A dominant 2nd half sees us into the next round of the The Emirates FA Cup !

Goals from Sam Grouse (2) and Joel Carta round off a good performance given the tricky conditions!

A massive thanks goes out to the 164 that came despite the weather - your support really helps us!

Well done lads, enjoy tonight!

AIFC 2-1 Eastwood CFC

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 00:10:07 GMT

An impressive performance from the lads to get the club a deserved first win at Step 5!

Second half goals from Sam Grouse and James Harrison sealed the points!

A strong home support of 178 in tonight too!

Next up - the FA Cup at the NFU on Saturday as we welcome Deeping Rangers!

AIFC 1-1 Pinchbeck United

Sat, 29 Jul 2023 00:08:16 GMT

It ended all square here at the NFU, with Ivanhoe having multiple shots on target from Grouse and Quinn saved in the first half!

It was all Ashby second half but we couldn’t quite find the back of the net to take all 3 points - overall a good performance with plenty of positives to take forward.

Danny Quinn got our equaliser just before half time.

Thanks to the 194 that came to support the boys!

Next up, we welcome Eastwood on Tuesday night!

Planning Permission granted!

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 00:06:40 GMT

We are pleased to be able to confirm that we have been granted planning approval by NWLDC to create new pitches, additional car parking together with an improved site access/egress.

We await the formal planning approval notice which will contain a number of conditions that the club will need to adhere to.

Discussions with the County FA are underway regarding the design and pitch specifications, grant availability and we hope that these will be fully resolved soon.

The car park and site access/egress is being designed by a Highway Consultant and this will need to be approved by Leicestershire County Council, but again we anticipate that this will be resolved soon.

Further updates to follow and thanks for your support and understanding on this matter.

Onwards and upwards!

Ashby Ivanhoe FC Rangers are climbing Snowdon to raise money for Diabetes UK

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 21:12:40 GMT

On Saturday 29th July, AIFC u9 Rangers coach Rich Brookes, along with some parents and players from the team, will be climbing Mount Snowden to raise money for the charity Diabetes UK.

Tomorrow at 2:30pm, Rich’s wife, Jennifer, will be on air on Hermitage FM to talk about their fundraising!

Type 1 is an incurable autoimmune disease and it is very close to their hearts with their own son, Harry, who has played for Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club for the past 2 years being diagnosed in February 2022.

Honor Massarella, who is the parent of one of the boys from the football team is also Type 1 Diabetic since being diagnosed at just 20 months old. Honor has been a huge support since Harry’s diagnosis and will be walking Snowdon to raise awareness too!

What’s Harrys story?

It started with a trip to the doctors for what we thought was a UTI and turned into a frightening admittance to the Children’s High Dependancy Unit in Derby Royal.

He was admitted in DKA (please look this up to see how serious this was) and diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes there and then at 8 years old, just a week after his birthday.

For them as a family, it’s now part of their normal daily lives and they are so proud of Harry and how TD1 has not let him stop doing anything! He plays football 4 times a week, you wouldn’t have any idea if you didn’t know him that he was diabetic!

The have shared the reality that they don’t share often, on their Just Giving page. It gives a little insight into their daily lives and what they and other families have had to adjust too, it really is life or death!

You can donate to their fundraiser here:

https://www.justgiving.com/page/jennifer-brookes-diabetesuk-fundraiser-july23?checkoutMode=Headless&fbclid=IwAR0BkSFDbpks7uRqyqRCHRRyhfpq4bPjqHSpIkSx6xyxeqmTvKJfDTHICKE

AIFC 2-1 Droitwich Spa

Fri, 05 May 2023 23:51:37 GMT

WE ARE GOING UP, WE ARE GOING UP!

After going behind and taking the pressure first half, a Danny Quinn goal drew us level just before the break, a much improved Ivanhoe pushed on 2nd half and near last minute Joel Carta goal sees us snatch promotion!

This club, this team, is something different - GET INNNN!!!

Get down to NFU and join the celebrations!

It’s hard to put into words what yesterday means to everyone associated with our fantastic club, but some of the pictures capture it brilliantly!

After coming close last season and the heartbreak of being knocked out in the Semi-Final, this year we really have got what we deserved by going one step further and securing promotion!

The club is flying on and off the pitch, and the support shown from our town has been superb, not only recently, but throughout the whole season!

We couldn’t do any of it without our sponsors, and a huge thanks goes out to Zamanis , Howkins and Harrison and The Short Cut Ashby for your ongoing support!

AIFC 1-0 OJM Black Country

Tue, 02 May 2023 23:49:13 GMT

An absolutely brilliant performance from the boys tonight infront of a massive 428 backing the Ashby to reach Saturdays Play-Off Final!

Danny Quinn with the first half goal from a Liam Donaghy set piece, the lads superb 2nd half taking the OJM pressure and seeing the game out!

We will now host Droitwich Spa at the NFU this Saturday, with a place at Step 5 at stake!

A huge huge thanks goes to everyone that made the effort to come and support the lads tonight - we go again on Saturday!

AIFC Knights 3-0 Holwell Sports Res

Mon, 01 May 2023 23:47:30 GMT

PRESIDENT TROPHY CHAMPIONS!

It’s a deserved win and a classy performance from the boys to claim to trophy!

Goals from Josh Anderson, Haydn Brown and Nick Sewell!

Thanks for all the travelling support and well done lads!

AIFC 5-0 AFC Bridgnorth

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 23:45:37 GMT

We wrap our league campaign up in style producing a superb 2nd half infront of a strong crowd of 182 at the NFU this afternoon!

Will Groocock, Sam Grouse (x2), Josh Thomas and Ash Garner with the goals!

Now onto the huge Play-off Semi-Final game on Wednesday at home - if you can make that, please come on down and support the lads in simply the biggest game in the history of AIFC!

Chelmsley Town 1-4 AIFC

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 23:43:45 GMT

A Danny Quinn hatrick and 2nd half goal from Haydn Brown sealed a convincing win for the Ivanhoe boys this afternoon in Coleshill!

We were fantastic, playing it round brilliantly and were solid at the back throughout with Tommy Dyche making a superb double save first half and Storer with a last ditch tackle in the second.

The first goal came as Chris Acott powered down the right wing leaving his man behind, and his right footed cross was met with a weak clearance, which Danny Quinn pounced on and smashed into the net.

Shortly before half time came the second, as Will Robson played an aerial ball into Grouse, who’s looping header into the path of Quinn took the Chelmsley back line out the game, Quinn’s class showed as he slotted in for his 2nd.

12 minutes into the second period, a curling effort into the far corner brought the game back to 1-2.

Our 2 goal lead was soon restored as Quinn completed his hatrick with an on-target shot that took a slight knick to evade the goalkeeper!

The 4th was a sensational solo goal as Haydn Brown outmuscled the right back, bombed forward down the left hand side, cuts inside which took the 2 defenders out of the game and struck powerfully past the home goalkeeper!

A brilliant outing that could have been more, had it not been for the woodwork denying both Grouse and Brown who both hit the bar + post.

Onto to Tuesday away to Smethwick Rangers, to be played at Bilston!

Haughmond 2-4 AIFC

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 23:42:07 GMT

Last nights long midweek trip to Shrewsbury saw us take all 3 points and move back into 2nd place on the league!

After a slow start and going 1 down, the lads soon got back on level terms and managed to turn it around to lead at the break with the leveller from Sam Grouse, and then moments before the half time whistle Liam Donaghy netted.

George Teeney playing vital parts in both goals, carrying the ball from the halfway line into the box and getting a shot away, his shot saved which fell to Grouse, and then battling to win and play the ball through to Donaghy for the 2nd.

We came out the blocks quick 2nd half and with 2 minutes of the restart the ref had pointed to the spot for a foul on Grouse, Grouse then stepped up to convert convincingly.

It was soon 4, as Will Robson did fantastically in the middle of the park to control and ping a delightful ball over the Haughmond back line for Grouse to chase down, he took it in his stride, rounded the keeper and slotted home for his hatrick and no.40 of the season.

Our hosts pulled a late one back from the spot, but never really troubled us and we continued to push for a 5th.

Thanks to those that travelled, and now on to Saturday where we travel to Chelmsley Town!

AIFC 3-2 Shawbury United

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 23:40:08 GMT

Another exciting game against Shawbury United where we come from behind to win!

It could have been the perfect start for the Ashby boys as it looked as though Chris Acott had his feet taken from underneath him in the box, however the referee disagreed with the calls and nothing was given!

Soon after, our visitors were lucky not to have gone down to 10 men with a horrendously late and high challenge on Ash Garner, right in front of the dugouts, that was only deemed worthy of a yellow card.

Our bright start was rewarded after 12 minutes when a whipped Liam Donaghy corner kick was met at the back post by Skipper Joe Neal to head home and put us 1 up.

The Ivanhoe chances kept coming, with Sam Grouse beating the keeper but taking a heavy touch, and Acott firing over from close range.

Despite controlling much of the half, it ended level as Shawbury pulled a scrappy one back just before the break.

The visitors took advantage of a loose header at the back and against the run of play found themselves 2-1 up with half an hour to play.

The Ivanhoe fight back began 25 minutes from time, as Donaghy battled forward down the right wing combining with Acott, and the ball eventually found its way to a free Grouse in the centre of the box, who took a touch and prodded past the goalkeeper to draw us level.

A goalkeeping calamity gave us a chance to turn it around straight away as the man in nets completely missed the back pass to him, leaving Grouse a tough effort on goal open from a tight angle, but his shot came back off the post to a chorus of cheers from the Shawbury bench.

However, just moments after that it was Grouse that had the last laugh as he emphatically lobbed the visiting keeper from range, after Gabe Webster played a killer ball over the top to take out the whole Shawbury back line.

Thank you for your support and we now look onto Thursday night when we travel to Haughmond!

Hinckley Leicester Road 2-2 AIFC Knights

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 23:38:01 GMT

The 10 man Knights progress into the Final of the Presidents Trophy after a thrilling 4-3 win on penalties!

Ivanhoe controlled most of the first half and took an early lead after Haydn Brown picked up a loose ball following a great save by the home keeper from a powerful Ben Earp shot.

Brown got it under control, beat his man and fired into the net!

The boys were up against it from the off second half as Hinckley LR gave it their all to get back into it, and Ivanhoe were made to play the final 40 with 10 men after Danny Turnock was shown a red for bundling over the forward on the edge of the box.

Shortly after our woes continues as our hosts got an equaliser from the spot mid half.

They then took the lead 12 minutes from time following a great cross pitch ball to the half time sub on the right wing, he then drilled across the box for the centre forward to hit home to turn it around for Hinckley.

The Ashby boys picked it up after the 2nd Hinckley goal, with Brown going close.

We were piling on the pressure and our equaliser came as through Aaron Windrum headed a rebound of the bar to get us level.

Ivanhoe had to endure corner after corner as we played into the 97th minute, for the full time whistle to finally go and for it to go to penalties!

Ben Hammerton in goal kicked off the penalty shoot out with a big save, with us winning 4-3 with successful efforts from Anderson, Newton, Duthie and Poxon.

Well done lads, had to dig deep for that one!

The Final is on the 2nd May, at Loughborough Dynamo, against Holwell Sports!

AIFC 7-0 Haughmond

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 23:36:45 GMT

Tonight’s win secures us a place in this seasons playoffs in-front of a strong midweek crowd of 125!

An outstanding performance, that included a ridiculous 4 goals in 7 second half minutes!

Goals from:

Liam Donaghy

Sam Grouse x4

Ash Garner

Haydn Brown

Well done lads, and full match report to follow tomorrow!

We’re at home again on Saturday, hosting Bridgnorth, again your support would be massively appreciated

Wednesfield 1-2 AIFC

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 23:34:58 GMT

We were made to work extremely hard to keep all 3 points 2nd halve but the lads were superb and defended brilliantly!

Ash Garner almost put us ahead in the opening minutes of the game as his header from 4 yards out was miraculously saved by the home goalkeeper.

A penalty kick was then given as an Ashby cross from the right was stopped in the middle of the box by a Wednesfield arm. Sam Grouse stepped up to convert, placing past the keepers left side.

Ivanhoe were well on top and Will Robson found himself through on goal, he was tripped by the chasing defender but stayed on his feet to get an off balanced shot away.

Our hosts came close early in the 2nd half but Jake Conkay rose at our far post to win the header and stop the no.9 heading in.

A much needed Ashby 2nd came as Will Robson played a delightful ball cross-field to Liam Donaghy, Donaghy cut inside and smashed home with a left footed shot.

Wednesfield we’re much improved 2nd half and got one back with a well stroll effort with 15 minutes to play.

The lads kept their cool, defended from the front and worked hard as a team to take home the win and the all important 3 points.

Next up, we welcome Haughmond to the NFU on Thursday night.

AIFC 3-0 Wolverhampton Sporting Community

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 23:32:13 GMT

Great to be back to winning ways with a commanding 3-0 win this afternoon!

Gabe Webster put us ahead mid-first half after a brilliant Sam Grouse back heal to find him in the box!

Our midfield moved the ball brilliantly from right to left and the ball eventually fell to Chris Acott on the wing who carried it inside and smashed across goal to get our 2nd!

Haydn Brown was bright when he came on and was fouled in the box, Sam Grouse stepped up and converted from the spot to wrap the game up 5 minutes from time!

Thanks for your support and it’s now on to Monday!m where we travel to Wednesfield!

Ashby Ivanhoe Girls and Ladies FC’s First ‘Just Play’ Session

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 00:30:09 GMT

Last nights Ashby Ivanhoe Girls and Ladies FC’s first ‘Just Play’ session was a huge success and everyone enjoyed it despite the weather!

If you’d like to have a kick about without committing to a team, or would just like to give football a go for the first time then this is the session for you!

Nexts weeks session is live and can be booked onto below!

https://faevents.thefa.com/Book?SessionID=290077

AIFC COMEDY EVENING!

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 11:11:48 GMT

W e are delighted to share the first of several events that we have planned to mark 2023 being the year the club turns 75 years old!

On Thursday 30th March , we will be taking over The Lyric Rooms to host our very own Comedy Evening!

The entertainment will come from the brilliantly funny compère and comedian Pete Emmett and enigmatic Billy Flywheel!

A sweet/ savoury buffet will be provided.

Tickets are £35, and can be purchased direct over the bar, by emailing getinvolved@ashbyivanhoefc.co.uk or by Direct Message on Facebook.

—————————————————————-

Pete Emmett

Pete burst onto the comedy scene a couple of years ago and his unique humour has seen him make rapid strides on the circuit.

This much in demand comedian has already worked alongside the likes of Johnny Vegas, Mike Tyson, Dame Kelly Holmes and Sugar Ray Leonard.

Whilst a fantastic comedian, Pete has excelled in the role of host comedian – establishing himself as one of the UK’s most in demand comic hosts, where his skills ensure he does a professional job to time and brief, keeps things light hearted where appropriate using comedy or quips when necessary, uses his natural warmth as a superb auctioneer.

He is now the corporate host at Liverpool FC – the owners and shareholders private box, plus he holds a similar role at both Everton FC and St Helens RLFC.

Billy Flywheel

Billy is a comedy talent not to be missed. Laughs galore are guaranteed from this zany and most original of entertainers with his quick fire jokes, send-ups, impressions and bizarre happenings during his performance.

At Sportsman’s dinners he has appeared with numerous sporting legends such as Bob Champion, John Parrot, Willie Thorne, Peter Shilton, Alex Stepney, Nobby Stiles, Dave Bassett, Barry Fry, Duncan McKenzie, Joey Jones, Mickey Thomas, Jan Molby and Paul Merson to name but a few and he has appeared at various corporate events for the Football Association and for several Premiership, Championship and Football League Clubs

AIFC 0-1 Dudley Town

Sat, 18 Feb 2023 00:25:19 GMT

There wasn’t a lot in that one, a game of few chances that eventually fell the way of our visitors in the dying minutes of the game, with us having gone down to 10 men in the 81st.

Josh Thomas came close to giving us the lead early on as his shot was superbly saved after great work on the right hand side by Will Groocock and Will Robson.

As could be expected, it was cagey with neither side creating too much in the final third, but Dudley did come close just before the break when they stuck the crossbar.

Early in the 2nd half, it looked like Robson’s flying looping header was finding the far corner but it rebounded off the bar.

81 minutes in, Conkay was shown a straight red for a challenge.

In the final moments of the game, our visitors found the winner after the ball was bundled over the line following a goal line scrap.

Despite being gutted with the result, we must send a huge thanks to the 412 that came down to watch today and supported the lads today, 11

Game dot go and we need you to continue to back the lads on the run in!

Heath Hayes 1-2 AIFC

Sat, 11 Feb 2023 10:57:00 GMT

I vanhoe leave it late to snatch the 3 points!

After going in 1 down at the break as Heath Haye’s took their only chance of the first half to go ahead, the lads fought hard and bagged 2 2nd half goals to turn it around!

The leveller came 20 minutes from time as Skipper Macauley Hoes rose to head home Liam Donaghy Corner!

The winner was coming and Sam Grouse came close, dragging one narrowly wide and striking the bottom of the post.

Our never give up attitude was evident again this afternoon as Will Robson back heeled to Grouse, who struck with his left foot to find the bottom corner to complete the come back!

Next up, league leaders Dudley Town visit the NFU next Saturday!

AIFC launch special 75th anniversary logo!

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 10:58:36 GMT

W e are excited to share with you a special commemorative logo that has been designed to celebrate the club turning 75 years old this year!

The inspiration has come from a classic version of our badge as seen on the old squad photos below, and we have modernised it with the addition of a slick banner added below the helmet.

The logo will not be used on team kits, and will appear at commemorative events (the first to be launched soon!) and on merchandise which can now be purchased at the below link!

https://www.lisssport.co.uk/ashbyivanhoefc

Thanks goes to Liam at FLYT Sports Branding for all his help with designing the logo and helping us along the way!

Birstall United 1-3 AIFC

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 10:59:56 GMT

A n unbelievable 2nd half from the lads sees us reach the Leicestershire & Rutland County FA Senior Cup Final!

3 fantastic goals from George Teeney, Ash Garner and Will Groocock saw us turn it around after going behind in the first half to a penalty kick!

Class travelling support yet again - let’s fill Holmes Park for the Final and bring it home!

Full report to follow tomorrow!

AIFC Knights 4-0 Desford Res

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 11:02:29 GMT

A solid win and performance today by the Knights against Desford sees them in the hat for the next round of the cup!

The goals came from Finn Chaplin, Trafford Pickering, Tom Simms and recent new signing Hayden Brown!

It was also fantastic to have the u7’s walk out with the team and take part in a warm up next to the lads before the game!

Coventry Copsewood 0-1 AIFC

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 11:01:23 GMT

A solid win on the road for the lads this afternoon against a resilient Copsewood side who made it difficult to create to many clear cut chances.

The decisive moment in the game turned out to be the Sam Grouse goal that came after just 10 minutes, as Ash Garner lofted a beautiful ball over the Coventry back line for Grouse to take in his stride and finish into the far bottom corner!

Ivanhoe came close again just before the break as Grouses shot went narrowly wide.

The 2nd half was much of the same, with Copsewood keeping their shape well and making it hard to get through, that being said, Chris Acott came close but fired wide, and Grouse had another effort on goal well saved.

Our hosts started to put us under abit of pressure towards the final whistle but our defence and Tommy Dyche in nets dealt with it well to hold on to the 3 points and a deserved clean sheet.

Next up, the boys travel to Birstall on to Tuesday night for the County Cup Semi-Final - it would be superb to see a strong Ashby contingency there to back the lads to hopefully a final!

First edition of our all new AIFC Newsletter (January edition)!

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 11:04:10 GMT

W e’d like to introduce the first edition of our all new AIFC Newsletter (January edition)!!

We have developed this newsletter with the aim of using it to provide updates on developments, club events and stories from within the club!

You will notice that at the top of the newsletter it is headed with a newly designed logo, this is to commemorate the clubs 75th Anniversary and will be used at celebratory events throughout the year and on merchandise - more on all this soon!

Currently, we have Polo’s and hoodies available to purchase from Liss Sports with the clubs special 75th logo on - please take a look and if there are any other items you’d like the logo on then let us know and we can look into it.

https://www.lisssport.co.uk/ashbyivanhoefc

We hope you find these informative, and if there is anything specific you’d like to hear more about please let us know via the clubs Facebook Direct Messages.

Shawbury Utd 1-2 AIFC

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 11:05:29 GMT

T hat’s what persistence does for you!

An equaliser in 90+5 (Ross McGarry), and a last gasp winner in 90+7 (Chris Acott)!

Makes the 160 mile round trip on a Tuesday neet worthwhile!

Massive thanks to the 15/20 off that made the trip from Ashby to support the lads!

UP THE IVANHOE!

U14 Hurricanes who came through their Semi-Final

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 11:06:50 GMT

C ongratulations to the U14 Hurricanes who came through their Semi-Final in fine fashion this morning beating Spondon cherry tree 6-1!

Details on the final date and venue to follow!

Aylestone Park Res 3-4 AIFC Knights

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 22:43:24 GMT

The Knights close the gap at the top of the league with a solid away win against unbeaten leaders Aylestone park!

Against the wind in the first half the Knights sat back and soaked up Early Aylestone pressure but looked dangerous on every break. After defending so well it was disappointing to concede although the goal came from an excellent lob from the edge of the area. Ashby then had numerous chances to take the lead but did not take them until two minutes before half time were Chris Nettel finished off inside the box 1-1

Second half was roles reversed with Aylestone getting pegged back constantly by Ashby. Against the run of play a long Aylestone ball resulted in there striker being pulled down in the box for a penalty which was slotted home to make the score 2-1.

Ashby then continued to pile pressure on Aylestone and it was Josh Anderson which was next to be fouled in the oppositions box to win a penalty. After smashing down the middle Ashby we’re back to all square and then should of had another penalty immediately straight after when Wilks was clearly fouled in the box. Some how this one wasn’t given.

Following this Aylestones keeper made two good saves to prevent Windrum and Riddell scoring before the cross bar then came to the rescue from a Trey Wilks long range effort. Ashby did extend the lead when a mistake from the Aylestone keeper allowed Anderson an easy finish before him then completing his hat trick moments later.

Aylestone then made numerous changes and went to 4 up front which Ashby dealt with well until an unlucky ricochet landed to an Aylestone player to make the score 4-3.

Liam Newton then looked to extend Ashby’s lead again but was over ruled for offside before Aylestone then also had a late goal disallowed for offside.

Full time 4-3 and a massive win in a game which in reality Ashby should have won by 7 or 8.

Onto next week where we take on third place Kibworth Town.

Ingles 0-4 AIFC

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 22:45:05 GMT

A devastating second 45 minutes from the boys puts our hosts to the sword and saw us claim maximum points in the A512 Derby!

We created a few good chances in the first half, and Sam Grouses shot came close as it came off the bottom of the post, but it was today’s captain, Jake Conkay, that would make the decisive breakthrough on the 18th minute.

It came as Josh Thomas’s set piece delivery was bang on the money, and Conkay rose 6 yards out to power his header past the keeper and into the back of the net.

Ivanhoe came out the blocks quick second half and doubled our lead 2 minutes in, a moment of quality from first half sub Will Groocock as he rolled his man and pulled it back to Grouse, who placed into the far corner to get his first of the game.

Groocock was involved again a short time later, when he sprayed the ball out wide to Thomas, another fine delivery into the box was met at the far post by Grouse who guided his header back across goal to put us 3 up and comfortably in control.

15 minutes from time, Grouse rounded off an electric second half performance as he sealed his hatrick, it came as Ash Garner collected the ball on the half way line, travelled deep into the Ingles half, he slid in Grouse, who poked past the keeper!l to seal the points.

Thanks to all travelling support that made the trip over to bump the crowd to over 150, we were there in force today and it’s always appreciated by the boys.

AIFC 2-1 Stapenhill

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 22:47:51 GMT

After a scrappy first 45 minutes the Ivanhoe pushed on 2nd half and went 2 goals up.

The first came as a surrounded Chris Acott managed to find Ash Garner in the box, Garners’ shot struck both posts and miraculously stayed out until the visiting defender fortunately turned it over his own line!

Roughly 20 minutes later, the second came as Acott picked the ball up on the right and squares to Sam Grouse who took it first time to slot into the far corner and extend the lead to 2!

Stapenhill hit back almost instantly from a corner to make it 2-1, but the boys in blue held on to grab a superb 3 points and make it 14 home wins on the trot!

A massive thanks to the 285 that came and enjoyed the game today (286 if you include Ross that turned up for the final 10) , you were fantastic and helped the lads!

AIFC 3-0 Kirby Muxloe

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 10:44:47 GMT

A clean sheet, 3 goals, a 12th home win on the bounce and into the County Cup Semi finals we go!

It was a fairly even opening 45 minutes and the only difference at the break was a header from Macauley Holmes that was powerfully met at the back post from a Liam Donaghy’s corner kick to put us ahead.

2nd half the boys pushed on but a number of saves and close efforts meant we couldn’t quite find the back of the net.

There was a long delay mid half as Harry Jones, the visiting goalkeeper, suffered an unfortunate shoulder injury and had to be replaced.

Ashby’s 2nd finally came 2 minutes from time, when Chris Acott was tripped in the box, and Sam Grouse stepped up to convert the penalty kick, sending the keeper the wrong way and slotting into the bottom right corner.

The game was well and truly wrapped up in emphatic style deep into added time, when Jake Conkay delivered a superb ball into the box from the right hand side, Grouse took it on the half volley to guide it into to the top corner with a brilliant finish!

Moments before the final whistle Ivanhoe’s Tommy Dyche was forced in to a sensational double save to keep the Ashby clean sheet intact.

Details on our Semi Final opponent and date will be published in due course once the draw has been made.

AIFC 4-2 Nuneaton Griff

Sat, 03 Dec 2022 10:46:56 GMT

D espite having 10 men for the last 25 minutes, the boys dug in, kept their cool and finished off the job to make it 11 home wins on the trot, and put us 2 points off top!

Ivanhoe dominated the first half, and goals from Gabe Webster, Will Robson and Sam Grouse put us in control at the break (3-1).

The 2nd half started more of the same, as the Ivanhoe chances kept coming but we couldn’t take them.

The Griff didn’t have a sniff until they took their first chance on the 65th minute to make it 3-2.

To make it a nervy finish, Ivanhoe were reduced to 10 men after the referee deemed a Will Robson challenge worthy of a straight red card.

However, the number of men on both sides were levelled 5 minutes from time, as the Nuneaton No.15 saw his 2nd yellow card of the half to see red.

Former Ivanhoe man, Luke Garner, was adjudged to have felled Chris Acott in the box, Grouse stepped up but his spot kick was well saved.

The drama didn’t end there, as Griff were reduced to 8 men as 2 were sin-binned for dissent.

Acott made sure the points were wrapped up in the 96th minute, when the NFU erupted as he slotted into the bottom corner moments before the final whistle!

A superb 3 points that closes the gap at the top to 2, and we’re next in action on Tuesday night when we welcome Kirby Muxloe to the NFU in the Quarter Finals of the County Cup!

AIFC 3-1 Cradley Town

Sat, 05 Nov 2022 20:07:14 GMT

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New Signing

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 19:09:08 GMT

We are delighted to have completed the signing of prolific centre forward George Teeney from Stapenhill FC!

George has scored 9 in 13 so far this season for the Swans and netted an impressive 27 league goals in 28 games last!

Please join us in welcoming him to the club and he will go straight into the squad for tomorrows game!

AIFC 3-0 Uttoxeter Town

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 19:11:02 GMT

Another clean sheet and a dominant display sees us progress into round 2 of the MFL League Cup!

Sam Grouse put us ahead at the break with a double, the first coming from the spot following an unfortunate slip from the defender that took out Gabe Webster, Grouse stepped up and converted.

His 2nd came moments late as he darted from the right side of the box to the left, and finished off his run by poking the ball into the top corner.

Ivanhoe were well in control and the third came on 60 minutes as Liam Donaghy’s corner kick was put back across from box at the far post by Ciaran Hughes, and Liam Storer rose to finish off into the back of the net.

A brilliant performance with Keeper Tommy Dyche only really called into action once to tip over early in the first half.

All the best to Uttoxeter Town for the rest of the season, onto Stapenhill away now on Saturday!

AIFC 3-0 Bilston Town

Sat, 15 Oct 2022 19:14:35 GMT

A terrific performance from the boys this afternoon that was matched by a fantastic atmosphere around the NFU to cheer the team on!

We deservedly went in at the break 2 up, with 2 quick fire goals just before half time via an own goal from the Bilston Town left back and a Will Groocock generously deflected shot.

The lads continued to dominate and chances kept coming, with Sam Grouse winning and then missing a penalty, moments later a Grouse header also went narrowly wide.

Joe Neal came close too as his shot was destined for the back of the net had it not been deflected to go out for a corner.

It had been coming and 20 minutes from time Groocock wrapped it up to get his 2nd and our 3rd after Grouse delivered in from the left.

A massive result, a huge thanks for the support today and we now look forward to travelling to Newark & Sherwood in the next round of the FA Vase on Saturday!

Coton Green 0-1 AIFC

Sat, 08 Oct 2022 21:08:56 GMT

T he boys perseverance pays off as we grab a smashing 2nd half winner and come away with a hard fought 3 points to keep us in 3rd place and close the gap at the top.

The first half was tight with few chances until just before the break when Ash Garners free header flew over the bar and Chris Acott’s effort went narrowly wide of the post.

The second half was more of the same, until Will Groocock did well down the right, pulled it back to Sam Grouse who’s shot was wide, with Grouse acknowledging that he could have squared to a free Josh Thomas at the far post.

The lads kept pushing and the breakthrough came from a superbly directed Will Robson header into the far corner of the goal from a great Grouse cross.

The boys saw the game out in a professional manner, defending fantastically, closing down from the front and picking out the corners to seal the result.

Thanks to the strong travelling support - absolutely brilliant this afternoon!

This result puts us 2 points behind league leaders Dudley Town (33), and 1 point behind 2nd placed Bilston Town (32), who we welcome to the NFU next Saturday - let’s fill the NFU for this one!

Grounds Update!

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 21:21:33 GMT

Today we have had the LCFC Turf Academy on site for our third instalment of ‘heavy’ pitch and training area maintenance!

They have applied slow release Autumn/ Winter fertiliser which encourages deep root growth.

In addition, last week the pitch was also scarified and 16 bags of thatch and dead grass was removed from the four corner areas alone!

You may have also noticed the new signs at the ground entrance that were supplied by new sponsor Qualiprint Ltd , which I’m sure you will agree look great and enhance the look of the ground!

AIFC 2-0 Coventry Copsewood

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 15:56:39 GMT

A good performance from the lads tonight, another 3 points and a clean sheet!

Ivanhoe controlled the game and if it wasn’t for the visiting goalkeeper it could have been a fair few more.

It was nice to have a wonder strike go in our favour for a change, as Chris Acott struck a wonderful left-footed curling effort into the far corner of the goal from 25 yards out to put us ahead at the break.

The second half went pretty much like the first, with plenty of Ivanhoe chances but they either went narrowly wide, or were well saved.

We needed a 2nd to kill the game off and ensure the points were ours, and that came moments from time as Will Robson was fouled in the box, and the returning Sam Grouse stepped up, and slotted into the bottom left corner of the goal for his 13th goal of the season.

Next up, we travel to 4th placed Coton Green on Saturday!

AIFC 3-1 Hinckley AFC

Sat, 01 Oct 2022 15:58:26 GMT

A top class performance from the boys today in front of a bumper crowd, with us looking dangerous when going forward and solid at the back throughout.

After starting the game the brighter side, we fell behind to a wonder goal on the 12th minute, which as like Tuesday, multiple keepers wouldn’t have kept out!

Going behind didn’t dent our hold on the game and we were soon level when a lively Will Groocock was felled in the box, and Dan Quinn stepped up to convert and drew us level.

Groocock was soon involved again and his assist for Will Robson was simply mesmerising, picking the ball up near the corner flag, beating 3 men on his way to the 6 yard box, and then he pulled it back to Robson to finish into the corner of the goal from 12 yards out.

We needed another to kill the game off and we started the 2nd half as we’d finished the first soon adding our third 5 minutes in.

The move started as Ash Garner picked the ball up in the middle of the park, as he played it out wide, it was left by Groocock and fell to Quinn, who didn’t think twice and unleashed a powerful strike into the far corner!

Tommy Dyche, Macauley Holmes and Joe Neal were rarely troubled at the back but when required cleared their lines without issue.

Going forward, Josh Thomas and Chris Acott were providing the width and ran the full backs ragid.

Overall it was nothing short of a brilliant performance from the lads all over the pitch and another 3 points on the board for the Ivanhoe.

We’re back at home on Tuesday, when we welcome Coventry Copsewood to the NFU, 7:45pm Kick Off!

Wolverhampton Sporting 2-2 AIFC

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 16:00:02 GMT

I t was a mixed evening last night as Will Groocock rescued a point for Ivanhoe with a last minute equaliser.

The boys came out the blocks quick, and went ahead early on after Ash Garner won the ball in midfield and played it in to Danny Quinn on the right hand side of the box, his powerful shot was well saved and parried out to Chris Acott, who finished emphatically from a tight angle into the top corner of the goal.

Our lead was very quickly nearly doubled as Acott flicked the ball around his man, beat him with his pace and then delivered into the path of Quinn, only for a last ditch tackle to stop his shot being unleashed 10 yards out.

Chances were aplenty and again it was Acott causing the problems as he single handily took on the Sporting midfield and back line passing 3 men with ease, he then switched the ball from his left to right, but his shot was straight at the goalkeeper.

Josh Thomas was lively down the left hand side and his deliveries across the 6 yard line area were causing the home defence to scramble and clear their lines.

Ivanhoe went in deservedly ahead at the break, and our hosts would have been delighted that they were still in the game.

Wolverhampton looked a different side 2nd half, and they put us under a prolonged period of pressure from the restart but were holding solid with Holmes and Hughes heading everything away at the heart of our defence.

Tommy Dyche had to be called into action after a relatively quiet first half to punch away a dangerous ball across our box, and a flurry of corners were cleared by Harry Stewart and Ross McGarry.

Their pressure paid off on the 62nd minute as Jake Conkay found himself the wrong side of the attacker and a clash of legs caused the referee to point to the spot, their captain, Nathan Walker, stepped up and put the spot kick into the bottom right corner of the net.

Ivanhoe had looked to have ridden the wave of Sporting pressure and came extremely close to retaking the lead when Acott headed back into the box from far post to Thomas, he was given bundles of time to take his shot which hit the post and somehow flew straight into the arms of the goalkeeper.

Another chance came for Ashby as Conkay combined down the right wing with Garner, Conkay’s cross found Quinn whose shot was fantastically blocked yards from the goal line.

A moment of magic from the hosts’ Jacob Gwilt saw them go ahead as he struck a sensational effort from distance into the top corner, which multiple goalkeepers wouldn’t have kept out!

In the dying seconds of the game, Will Groocock was fed through by second half sub Will Robson, and Groocock kept his calm to slot past the advancing keeper to earn us a point.

We now look forward to welcoming Hinckley AFC to the NFU on Saturday.

AIFC 2-0 Rocester

Sat, 24 Sep 2022 16:02:32 GMT

A commanding 90 minute performance and a big 2nd half see’s the boys coast into the next round of the FA Vase!

After some decent chances first half that we didn’t take, the lads came out flying 2nd half to seal the win with goals from Macauley Holmes and Danny Quinn.

Holmes goal came from an Ivanhoe corner following good work from Quinn to win it. Josh Thomas put his corner kick on a postage stamp for Holmes to power his header into the bottom corner and deservedly put us ahead.

The 2nd quickly followed as Jack Robinson started the move off with a solid challenge in midfield to win the ball back, he then sprayed it out wide to the left to Ross McGarry, McGarry then put in an outstanding ball along the 6 yard line for Quinn to pounce on and smash home.

Could have been more, well done lads we’re in to the next round but for now, onto Tuesday when we return to league action against Wolverhampton Sporting away!

Andy Gray Takes Soccer School Sessions

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 21:19:23 GMT

Last weekend our Development and Soccer School were treated to a session ran by a special guest coach, First Team Manager Andy Gray!

Andy was thrown in the deep end as we saw an almost record turn out for the Soccer School, which he and Lee put through their paces with some shooting drills, and then split the group into 2 for smaller sided games.

To finish off, Andy took both groups onto the Main pitch, to have a shot at a goalkeeper in the main goal in front of their parents!

It was a fanatic opportunity for both the kids and Andy, and we’re delighted we could make it happen.

The Development and Soccer school are on again this weekend, 8:45-9:45am for the Development school, and 10-11am for the Soccer School, get in touch for more information or check out Ashby Ivanhoe FC Soccer Sc hool !

AIFC 3-1 Heath Hayes

Sat, 17 Sep 2022 21:15:06 GMT

T he boys return to winning ways with a deserved win after a dominant 2nd half performance to stay 3rd!

Ivanhoe goals from Gabe Webster, Will Groocock and Sam Grouse!

Report to follow tomorrow!

Bilston Town 1-1 AIFC

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 19:26:58 GMT

T he boys leave Bilston with a solid point, always a tough place to visit and both sides will feel they could have probably nicked it.

Neither side could take control of the game first half, with us looking the more dan gerous going forward, but without causing the home goalkeeper any problems.

Bilston did have a couple of good efforts that forced Tommy Dyche into action to save.

We came out the traps 2nd half much improved and Chris Acott was taken down after superbly beating 2 men and sucking in the challenge from the Bilston right back for the foul.

Sam Grouse confidently stepped up and slotted past the keeper to give us the lead with half an hour to play.

There were chances to go 2 up after a Grouse header narrowly flew over the bar, and an Andy Hulley shot from outside the area slide past the far post.

Our hosts then managed to get an equaliser 7 minutes from time via a deflected shot!

After 6 games we remain unbeaten and with the best defensive record in the league, next up we face local rivals Ingles at the NFU on Saturday!

Thanks to all that travelled over to back the boys!

AIFC 0-0 Paget Rangers

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 23:44:49 GMT

A shby played out a stalemate with unbeaten Paget Rangers where chances were few and far between.

Both sides came into the game full of confidence, winning 7-0 and 5-2 respectively on Tuesday night.

Ashby had chances to open the scoring in a cagey first half. Joe Neal came closest for the home side when his header forced an acrobatic save from Goalkeeper Tommy Doyle, who turned the shot wide with an outstanding fingertip save.

Not to be outdone by his opposite number, Tommy Dyche in the Ivanhoe goal produced a fantastic near post save from Paget’s Harry Jackson. Holding onto the shot which was hit powerfully and preventing any chance of a rebound.

After the break, Ashby looked the more threatening side, but were unable to force Doyle into any world class saves.

Tuesday’s double hat trick hero Sam Grouse came closest when the ball sat up perfectly for him after a corner was not dealt with, however his effort was only to flash past the post.

Paget failed to truly test Dyche in the second half, however they were the more physical side throughout much of the half, stifling Ivanhoe’s attack which lacked the cutting edge of previous matches.

Manager Andy Gray felt that his side lacked the fire that they displayed on Tuesday night, believing that neither side truly did enough to win the game.

Next week sees the visit of Malvern Town in the FA Vase. They apply their trade in the Hellenic League Premier Division and will provide a stiff test for Ashby.

AIFC 7-0 Smethwick Rangers

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 23:47:59 GMT

S ensational Ivanhoe smash Smethwick for seven!

A ruthless Ivanhoe performance saw us cruise to victory this evening in emphatic style as an unstoppable Sam Grouse bagged 6!

The first came on the quarter of an hour mark, as Liam Donaghy controlled the ball and layed it off to Will Robson. Robson then played in a slick pass to Sam Grouse, who was felled in the box by the hesitant goalkeeper.

Grouse stepped up, and converted from the spot for his 3rd goal from the spot so far this season.

It was soon 2-0 as Robson again put the ball into the path of Grouse, Grouse did well to hold his line to stay onside, he then dribbled around the goalkeeper, and placed his shot between the 2 helpless Rangers defenders on the goal line and into the back of the net.

A dominant Ashby shortly before the break made it 3, as Gabe Webster’s cross goal shot came off the bottom of the post, Grouse was there to collect the loose ball, he beat his man and his effort managed to find its way into the net.

Just when you though a first half hatrick for Grouse was enough, he added his superb forth as Robson magically flicked the ball over the visitors back line, and Grouse first time volleyed over the keeper into the top corner!

HT: AIFC 4-0 Smethwick Rangers

Ivanhoe started the 2nd half as lively as we’d finished the first, and Chris Acott’s shot was well saved after he was played in by Robson.

Acott was soon on the scoresheet though as Ivanhoe ‘keeper Tommy Dyche distributed the ball out to Robson, his pinpoint ball over the top took the whole visiting midfield and defence out the game, Acott ran on to it, took a touch and fired past the goalkeeper!

The Smethwick back line were persistent in their style of play by repeatingly trying to play out from the back, this backfired when Grouse put his man under pressure to win the ball back, Grouse and Acott drove towards goal and Grouse placed into the far corner for Ivanhoe’s 6th.

5 minutes from time we scored our 7th, as Will Groocock flicked his header into the path of Grouse, who for the 6th time of the evening beat the goalkeeper.

A performance nothing short of sensational from every player on the pitch in blue tonight, another fantastic crowd on a damp weeknight to cheers the lads on - let’s get the NFU full for Saturday’s crunch home game to top of the table Paget Rangers!

Cradley Town 0-1 AIFC

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 23:50:57 GMT

I vanhoe bagged another 3 points to keep our unbeaten start to the season safe for another game!

The boys dominated from the off and our fast paced approach to the game had our hosts chasing shadows at times.

We created multiple chances early on and we finally made a breakthrough as Will Robson leaped to beat his man in the air, his header looped over the defender, and he volleyed it into the top corner!

Ivanhoe continued to press on forward but couldn’t make any more of our chances turn to goals.

5 minutes from the break there was almost a calamity as the ball looked to have bounced over Tommy Dyche in nets but all were relieved to see it narrowly go wide pass the post!

HT: Cradley Town 0-1 AIFC

Ashby started the half fast and Sam Grouse bullied his man on the Cradley goal line to win the ball back well, he then worked his way towards goal and forced the goalkeeper into a good save.

Chris Acott’s right footed shot then stung the hands of the keeper as he had to make a 2nd important save within moments of each other to keep the lead to 1.

Ashley Garner was then taken out mid air on the line of the penalty box, but somehow no foul was given.

Ivanhoe’s chances to extend the lead continued and Ross McGarry’s header 10 minutes from time from a corner kick was parried off the line.

Ashby stayed calm and remained solid throughout as we had to defend a flurry of Cradley corners in the dying minutes.

A great 3 points on the road, we’re back at the NFU on Tuesday when we host Smethwick Rangers!

AIFC 2-1 OJM Black Country

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 23:53:07 GMT

A fantastic performance from the boys tonight infront of a strong crowd to deservedly take all 3 points against a tough OJM side.

We edged the first half and had the chance to go ahead after 9 minutes, when Will Robson played a well timed through ball for Chris Acott to run on to, his effort on goal was well saved though by the visiting keeper.

It was a quiet opening 30 minutes for Tommy Dyche in the Ivanhoe goal but he was forced into a near post save as OJM created their first real chance of the half.

Ivanhoe took the lead in the 36th minute as a Sam Grouse and Acott charge forward saw Acott find himself 1 on 1 with the goalkeeper, slotting the ball past the keeper into the back of the net.

After the break our visitors were soon level after Jake Conkay was adjudged to have fouled the OJM man in the box, and they converted their penalty.

Ivanhoe looked dangerous going forward and our lead was restored when Grouse was felled in the box by the OJM keeper, Grouse stepped up, sent the keeper the wrong way and placed the ball into the right hand corner of the goal.

The boys controlled the remainder of the game, looking solid and untroubled across the back line and were an attacking threat going forward.

An excellent performance all round!

Next up, the firsts travel to Cradley on Saturday, and the Knights get their league campaign underway at the NFU.

Dudley Town 2-2 AIFC

Sat, 06 Aug 2022 00:01:45 GMT

A n entertaining game over in Dudley that saw us snatch a point in our opening game of the season.

Ivanhoe started bright and we went ahead after just 9 minutes as Jake Conkay momentarily turned into Xabi Alonso as he lobbed the Dudley keeper emphatically from inside his own half! (Wait for the VEO footage of it!!)

We continued to create chances and could have stretched our lead further but couldn’t quite find the back of the net.

Dudley came on strong towards the back end of the half and turned it around through 2 set piece goals to lead at the break.

HT: Dudley Town 2-1 AIFC

The boys in blue should have been back level as Will Robson was played through from the midfield, he kept his calm and slotted past the goalie for it to be (wrongly!) ruled out for offside.

We continued to push for the equaliser and in the 95th minute Sam Grouse was through on goal but hacked down by the Town keeper.

The referee had no choice but to point to the spot, and Sam stepped up to convert to steal the win off Dudley!

About even overall and not a bad point to start the season, but we’ll feel we had the chances to win it!

Onto OJM Black Country at the NFU on Tuesday now where we hope to welcome many of you back following the off season!

Match Report: AIFC 3-1 Wolverhampton Sporting Community

Sat, 02 Apr 2022 19:36:11 GMT

T he boys had to dig in deep to get the 3 points today but we were solid and persevered to get it done!

Ivanhoe went in at the break 1 up thanks to goal from Gabe Webster as he was the first to a loose ball following a Liam Donaghy free-kick.

A well worked goal from our visitors saw them level the game up 10 minutes in to the 2nd period.

Then, following a number of 50-50 challenges, Will Robson picked up the final ball and slotted past the goalkeeper to put us back ahead!

The game was then emphatically wrapped up with 10 minutes to go as James Grouse volleyed in a Donaghy corner to ensure the points were ours in style!

Ivanhoe are on the road next weekend as we travel to 2nd placed Darlaston Town for another exciting clash!

Big thanks to the 110 that came down to support the boys!

Match Report: AIFC 1-0 Dudley Sports

Sat, 26 Mar 2022 20:39:20 GMT

G reat to get back to winning ways with an important 3 points this afternoon on Non-league day!

Ivanhoe should have been out of site if it wasn’t for a heroic performance from the visiting goalkeeper that (hones tly) stopped it from being 5+ just in the first half!

Fortunately, an absolute right footed rocket from Chris Acott put us 1 up right on half time which turned out to be the winner!

Solid clean sheet too infront of another bumper crowd!

Thanks for the ongoing support and we hope to see you all again next weekend - note the league table, as we strive to cement our place in this seasons play offs!

Match Report: AIFC 0-2 Darlaston Town

Sat, 12 Mar 2022 10:42:11 GMT

I t was a spirited second half performance but it’s Darlaston that take the points and inflict defeat on us for the first time this year.

It was a game of very few chance and our visitors took advantage of a mistake in the midfield which left a one on one to take the lead mid way through the half.

Ivanhoe were soon down to 10 men as Jack Robinson was shown a straight red for a high foot that looked a little harsh.

HT: AIFC 0-1 D arlaston

Ivanhoe came out much improved second half and were arguably the better side, but unfortunately Darlaston doubled their lead 15 minutes from time as Ivanhoe were throwing men forward to try and find the equaliser.

A disappointing result but fair play, they are the first side to keep us out in the league this season and we had to work extremely hard as we were down to 10 for 60+ minutes.

We travel to their place in 3 weeks time with a chance to get revenge!

Massive thank you to the 254 that came down to watch the lads, we have 4 home games left this season so would be great to match those numbers for those!

New - AIFC Football Development School

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 10:46:03 GMT

We’re delighted to share the details of our new Football Development School which will be led by Rob Avins, who will now take the role of Youth Development Coach, overseeing both the Soccer School and the Development sessions.

Our new Football Development School is starting from Saturday 12th March, and it’s aim is to help those that may not be quite ready for team football but are too old for the Soccer School to develop further through specific training and drills that focus on the basic skills and the understanding around team football.

The sessions will be held from 8:45-9:45am at our NFU Sports Ground on Lower Packington Road, LE65 1TS and are open to the whole community, not closed to just AIFC players.

If interested, plea se DM the Ashby Ivan hoe FC Soccer School page to make contact with Rob.

Match Report: Paget Rangers 1-4 AIFC

Sat, 05 Mar 2022 10:48:27 GMT

A nother great result that makes it 6 wins on the bounce for the boys in blue as we continue our push to secure play-off places!

The first chance of the game fell to us after only 2 minutes as Chris Acott played Sam Grouse in on the right hand side, his cross to the back post fell to Liam Donaghy, who’s effort from a tight angle went wide.

Donaghy was soon involved again as it was his defence splitting ball to Grouse in the 11th minute that proved to be the assist, as Grouse buried his shot into the bottom corner of the goal.

Midway through the half it was nearly 2 as Macaulay Holmes drove a header from a Acott corner straight into hand of the goalkeeper.

A fantastic cross field ball from Holmes followed by a magic touch by Acott who then nutmegged his man on the byline put him on in on goal. He cut it back for Grouse who’s shot narrowly went wide of the post.

Paget had a their first real chance after 35 minutes which forced Tommy Dyche to get down to his right hand side to tip the powerful shot round the bottom of the post for a corner.

HT: Paget Ranger s 0-1 AIFC

Ivanhoe’s lead was doubled 10 minutes into the 2nd half as Gabe Webster slotted through for Acott, who clipped it cleverly over the keeper and into the goal.

Against the run of play, Paget got a goal back to potentially make it a nervy final 15 minutes.

We soon managed to restore our 2 goal lead in the 86th minute as Grouse calmly smashed home after Acott played a outstanding cross-pitch ball straight into the path of his run.

Moments before the final whistle, Sam Grouse rounded the keeper and passed into an empty net to claim his hatrick and well and truly finish off the game!

Next up, we have a massive game as we host 3rd places Darlaston at home on Saturday, would be superb to get a big crowd to back the lads for that one!

AIFC 4-0 AFC Bridgnorth

Sat, 26 Feb 2022 10:51:02 GMT

A nother great result to keep us in the hunt for the play offs as we produced a superb second half that saw us wrap the game up in convincing style.

After controlling possession for the majority of the first half, we finally broke the deadlock shortly before the break as Sam Grouse played through Chris Acott, who calmly slotted past the onrushing keeper.

HT: AIFC 1-0 AFC Bridg north

Ivanhoe made it 2 on the 58th minute after the referee played advantage following a foul on Will Robson, Sam Grouse picked the ball up on the right and played a cracking ball across the front of goal, Chris Acott popped up at the back post to slot home and get his second.

Moments later it was 3 as a Liam Donaghy free-kick came back off the post, bounced off the keeper and went in.

15 minutes from time the game was well and truely wrapped up as Sam Grouse converted emphatically from the spot infront of a packed shed end!

5 home games now until the end of the season, let’s pack out the NFU and secure a place in the play-offs!

David Morris Appointed Chairman

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 03:04:15 GMT

T he Directors are pleased to announce that the Club President, David Morris, has agreed to become the clubs new Chairman.

Having previous experience of leading the club as chairman, the Directors feel he is the right person to act as the Spokesperson and 'Figure Head' of the club. His main role will be to advise and help the Directors and Club Officials to run the organisation under the CIC structure of the club.

David said, “I'm happy to help out & progress the club at an exciting time in its development. The appointments made in the last couple of weeks are very exciting and will provide the structure we need to elevate the club to where we all want it to be, progressive, successful, sustainable, and most importantly enjoyable!"

David will work along side the existing club officials who will be staying in post:

C lub Secretary – Stuart Mann

Junior Secretary – Steph Rawden

Club Treasurer – Derek Barratt

Having led our Social Media accounts for numerous years, Ryan Morris will occupy the role of Head of Social media and Marketing.

A further club announcement on the appointment of our new Community Liaison Officer will be made later in the week.

Match Report: AIFC 3-0 Wednesfield

Sat, 05 Feb 2022 00:30:21 GMT

A nother top performance, dominated the first half and could have been out of sight at the break.

Our first came after just 5 minutes as a ball from the defence was flicked on by Jordan Wilson, Chris Acott ran on to it and slotted past the keeper.

We soon made it 2, as the lads worked it well out of the left hand corner and the ball eventually got to Will Robson, who emphatically curled into the far side of the net.

Ivanhoe could have been well clear at the break but we didn’t take all of our chances against a 10 man Wednesfield after their captain was shown a 2nd yellow just before the half time whistle.

The wind calmed and the 2nd half was very much like the first, with us looking dangerous every time we got forward, and solid at the back.

After numerous chances we finally got the 3rd as Acott chipped in a beautiful ball from the by line to put it on a plate for Wilson to head home.

No game next weekend, but we have arranged a HOME friendly for this Thursday against Shepshed Ingles!

Rob Joins The Soccer School

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 00:37:44 GMT

W e are delighted to share the news that Rob Avins has joined to become Head Coach of the Saturday morning Soccer School!

He’s a well known face at Ivanhoe having spend 15+ years as an AIFC player, captain and most recently, manager of the Knights.

He brings with him a wealth of experience coaching children, and has 10+ years working within primary schools teaching football and other sports, as well as 2 years at Northampton Town Football Club coaching in the community.

He also has a Bcs ( Hons) degree in Sports Performance + Coaching and he’ll be a great asset to the club - helping to give the kids the best start at the very beginning of their Ivanhoe careers!

Please join us in giving him a warm welcome back to the club!

If you haven’t been before here is some information:

When?

Saturday mornings 10-11am

Where?

NFU Sports Ground, Lower Packington Road, LE651TS

Who?

4-7 year olds

How much?

£4 per session, and includes a hot dog at the end!

All old and new faces welcome, and Rob will be taking his first session tomorrow!

Mark Appointed Head Of Junior Football!

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 00:35:26 GMT

W e are pleased to confirm the appointment of Mark Scrivener as the new Head of Junior and Youth football.

Mark will officially start his new role from 1st June 2022 as he is currently involved with Albert Village and wishes to complete this season with them.

He will start to work alongside us and the existing club officials to plan for next season and he will be introducing himself to you all over the coming days/weeks.

He will be an invaluable addition to the club and with his knowledge, drive and enthusiasm will enable the Junior & Youth section to progress in the right direction.

Please join us in giving Mark a warm welcome to the club and please read the message from him below:

My Journey in youth football started off at Albert Village when there was approx. 20 children at a soccer school on the park, I went down with my son Harrison to see what it was all about. From that day I was hooked. That week I had signed up to be a coach, within 3 months I was head coach of the Soccer school and 9 months into my journey I was put forward to be Chairman.

Since that day we have grown into a club with over 300 children, moved our base to Jungle Madness in Donisthorpe and increased all the training and equipment for all the teams. The club currently sits as one of the most wel l known in the Area for Junior football and has a fantastic group of coaches that are pushing it forward.

I am excited to be joining Ashby Ivanhoe and see it as a huge opportunity to help the youth football at the club push on and increase. I regularly attend the Ashby First teams games and some of you may already know me from there and from outside of football.

I look forward to meeting all of you and developing the clubs exciting vision of the club’s Junior and Youth team future.

Club Statement - Stuart Bonser Leaves Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 09:39:42 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club CIC Directors, Jon Emmerson and Neil Johnson, are disappointed to have to announce that we have requested that Stuart Bonser resigns from the position of Chairman of Ashby Ivanhoe FC with immediate effect.

Whilst there has been a huge amount progress over the past 10 years, including the introduction of a Junior/ Youth section and moving the club to our now home on Lower Packington Road, it’s felt that fresh ideas and leadership are needed in order to push the club onto the next level, now we have purchased the NFU Sports Ground as our own.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank Stuart for his dedication and hard work that he has put into the club over the 10 years in the position and wish him well in any new venture in the future.

The Directors are progressing quickly to recruit experienced people to support the current club officials to set up the new structure within the club that will give it stability and sustainability going forward.

Further announcements will be made in the coming days.

Match Report: AIFC 3-1 Dudley Town

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 00:39:39 GMT

L ast night saw the boys secure a huge win over high flying Dudley Town that moves us up to 5th place in a thoroughly enjoying 97 minutes of non-league football.

Ivanhoe opted to kick into the wind first half and Luke Thorogood smashed home a shed end goal on the 14th minute after great work by Sam Grouse on the right hand side of the box to beat his man and deliver.

Due to the conditions it was h ard at times to get the ball out of our half as it seemed to just kept coming back at us, but we defended well and persisted with keeping the ball on the floor to get us out of any danger in what was a stop-start first 45 minutes.

HT: AIFC 1-0 Dudley Town

Ivanhoe doubled the lead with 18 to go as Harry Stewart dinked a lovely ball over the Dudley back line, Sam Grouse timed his run to ovoid the offside trap, carried the ball around the goalkeeper and slotted into an empty net.

Dudley pulled a goal back after they were awarded a soft free kick near the half way line, and a Dan Danks delivery was headed in by Matty Gardner.

After a nervey spell following the Dudley goal, the points were then s ecured in added time as an Ashby counter attack ended with Sam Grouse’s shot clip off the keeper and loop into the net.

A great result that keeps us 3/3 for the new year, lets hope we can make it 4 when we welcome Wednesfield to the NFU on Saturday!

Thanks to all that came, another great crowd that helped spur the lads on!

AIFC XI: Griffeths, Conkay, Storer, Holmes, Stewart, Robinson, Donaghy, Thorogood, Acott, McGarry, Grouse

Subs used: Robson, McAllister, Wilson

Match Report: AIFC 2–1 Chelmsley Town

Sat, 29 Jan 2022 00:41:18 GMT

N ot an easy win, deserved, but made to work until the last minute for the points as Luke Thorogood struck to get the winner.

Jordan Wilson put us ahead with a first half goal after 14, which was squared by Sam Grouse.

Another big game Tuesday as we welcome Dudley Town to the NFU!

Match Report: Wolves Sporting 1-2 AIFC

Sat, 22 Jan 2022 00:46:11 GMT

A superb 3 points on the road this afternoon against a tough side.

Ivanhoe were in control for the majority of the game playing the ball around nicely. We eventually took our chance 7 minutes from the break as Luke Thorogood played in Sam Grouse with a beautifully weighted ball, Sam took a couple of touches and calmly slotted past the keeper.

20 minutes from time Gabe Webster pulled out some trickery to lay it back to Chris Acott on the left wing, Chris then floated a pin point ball into the path of Will Robson who rose to loop his header over the giant Wolves goalkeeper!

The hosts pulled one back with 8 to go as Kieran Francis brilliantly struck a free kick into the top corner.

It was backs against the wall defending from then on with Macaulay Holmes and Liam Storer leading the way by standing firm and winning everything at the back.

Well played lads -a great result!

AIFC Join Forces With Mcdonalds For Youth Team Sponsorship!

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 13:59:24 GMT

W e are delighted to announce our partnership with popular food chain, McDonalds, as they sponsor our U7’s and U14’s teams.

McDonalds chose to sponsor our teams as they believe that it is important to have a good relationship with its local communities.

McDonalds Assistant manager Matthew said: " You cant build a business without a good local community, we believe the business and the football club are intertwined with the community. The development of young people as players and as people, as well as enjoying football is important to McDonalds and he added; ‘Even though it is a competitive sport, we want to see kids taking part and growing in confidence."

Thank you to McDonalds for partnering with us, we look forward to working alongside you in the community.

Wilson Departs AIFC For Bromsgrove Sporting

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 23:08:04 GMT

v anhoe forward Jordan Wilson has left the club to join Step 3, Southern Football League side Bromsgrove Sporting.

Jordan has been quality for us on and off the pitch since he joined, and had this season notched up 30 goals in 21 games, leaving him the current joint top Goalscorer in the league.

Off the pitch, Jordan has given up his free time to help coach and provide guidance to our u18 strikers during their training sessions.

Whilst it’s a shame to see him leave, the chance to join a step 3 club doesn’t come around too often and everybody at the club wishes him all the best, both at Bromsgrove and for the future.

It’s been great to see him enjoying his football again!

Match Report: AIFC 2-4 OJM Black Country

Sat, 27 Nov 2021 23:05:07 GMT

FT: AIF C 2-4 OJM Black Country

Ivanhoe’s impressive 6 match winning streak comes to the end at the hands of OJM Black Country this afternoon.

It was a competitive game in tricky conditions and we went in at the break 1 up after a Sam Grouse penalty was converted following a hand ball.

The game lit up 2nd half and OJM were straight away back on level terms.

Almost instantly after, a sharp thinking ivanhoe took a free kick quick and Jordan Wilson put us 2-1 up.

But, having gone ahead twice, 10 man ivanhoe fell to a 4-2 defeat after OJM came back strong 2nd half.

The 3rd OJM goal being questionable to say the least!

No game next Saturday now, some back in action on the 7th at home to Dudley Town.

Thanks to all that came today, a great crowd in cold and windy conditions!

Match Report: Khalsa Football Federation 1-4 AIFC

Sat, 13 Nov 2021 00:50:40 GMT

FT: Khalsa Football Federation 1-4 AIFC

Ivanhoe took an early lead through Luke Garner but were pegged back midway through the first half to go in level at the break.

We pressed on 2nd half and were soon back in front through Jordan Wilson.

Moments later we opened the gap as Sam Grouse converted from the spot following a handball in the area.

The game was wrapped up with 25 to go as Wilson got his 2nd of the game.

Another great 3 points on the road and again we don’t move up from 6th position despite some of the results going our way!

Congratulations also goes out to our skipper Macca, as today he made his 100th appearance the AIFC!

AIFC Goalscorer’s:

Luke Garner

Jordan Wilson

Sam Grouse

FT: AIFC Knights 1-2 Glenfield United

Tough one to take for the Knights today after being 1 up at the break.

They gave it their all on the pitch but unfortunately our visitors scored twice 2nd half despite going down to 10 men.

Worth noting we also were unlucky second half to have 2 filled out, another day and we could have at least taken a point off them.

Match Report: AIFC 2-0 Shawbury United

Sat, 06 Nov 2021 01:18:20 GMT

FT: AIFC 2-0 Shawbur y United

Tough game in difficult conditions with the wind but a late double grabs us an important 3 points after 2 weeks off!

Ivanhoe’s goals came from Sam Grouse and Jordan Wilson!

Solid performance from the back line too to get a clean sheet!

We remain in 6th position!

Match Report: AIFC Legends 4-3 Marlborough Rovers Legends

Sat, 30 Oct 2021 00:22:02 GMT

FT: AIFC Legends 4-3 Marlborough Rovers Legends

Wow - what an evening!

The inaugural Eric Avins Memorial Trophy encapsulated everything that’s great about local football!

Thankfully the rain stayed away and there was an incredible turnout to pay tribute to and to remember a superb man.

The game was thoroughly entertaining and Ivanhoe edged it to win 4-3 through a Jake Conkay wonder strike!

Whilst competitive, it was the spirit of friendship and camaraderie that was the real winner and thanks to everyone that came down and a massive thanks goes out to Richard and our friends at Marlborough Rovers Football Club for an evening that will go down in the history books.

Thanks to all the volunteers that made the evening possible and to local businesses Taylors & Sons Butchers for donating food for the BBQ and Card Factory for the discounted Balloons.

We look forward to doing it all again next year, hopefully around August Bank Holiday - absolutely brilliant!

Friendly Result: AIFC 7-2 Loughborough University XI

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 00:08:25 GMT

Friendly result: AIFC 7-2 Loughborough University XI

It was hatricks for both Sam Grouse and Jordan Wilson in last nights friendly against Loughborough Uni, with Luke Thorogood grabbing the other as we ran riot in the first half scoring 5.

It was also great to see 16 year old Robbie Harrison make his 1st team debut in the second half, getting just over half an hour in central midfield!

It’s a busy few days now at the NFU with 3 games in 3 days:

Thursday: Knights vs Fleckney (7:30pm)

Friday: Eric Avins Memorial Trophy - AIFC Legends vs Marlborough Legends (7pm)

Saturdays: Knights vs Cottesmore (3pm)

Match Report: Dudley Sports 1-6 AIFC

Sat, 16 Oct 2021 19:02:30 GMT

FT: Dudley Sports 1-6 AIFC

A well deserved 3 points and the Ivanhoe boys were in control for the majority of the game looking sharp going forward, but also solid at the back throughout.

We came out the traps quick and Sam Grouse looked to have been taken down by the keeper after getting to the ball first but no penalty was given.

Moments later Jordan Wilson was played through after great work by Liam Donaghy in the middle of the park, Wilson seemed to have been pushed off balance in the area, but again the penalty appeal was waved away.

The opening goal soon came as Will Robson made a great run down the right wing, he whipped in an outstanding ball straight across the 6 yard line. Unfortunately for the Dudley centre half he couldn’t clear and turned it into his own net.

It was nearly 2 on the 15th minute if it wasn’t for a great save to deny Holmes and then Conkay’s follow up effort came back off the post.

The visitors started to improve and Ashby were looking for a 2nd goal.

5 minutes before the break that goal came as Chris Acott played a pinpoint ball over the back line for Sam Grouse, who looped his header over the goal keeper into the far corner of the goal.

HT Dudley Sports 0-2 AIFC

Ashby continued their trend of starting halves quick and got a quick fire double 10 minutes in.

The first came on the 54th minute as Wilson eased his man off the ball to leave him 1 on 1, and he made no mistake and placed his shot into the top corner to make it 3-0.

2 minutes later Luke Thorogood got Ashby’s 4th as he ran onto a ball played through from the midfield and he slotted past the onrushing keeper.

The hosts got on the scoresheet with 20 left to play to make it 1-4.

Sam Grouse then got his 2nd of the afternoon to restore Ashby’s 4 goals lead from 10 yards out after his brother James Grouse did well to head the ball back into the box from a corner.

Ivanhoe were cruising and the match was wrapped up in the 84th minute as Luke Garner got on the scoresheet to make it 6.

AIFC starting XI:

Williamson, Donaghy, Conkay, Holmes, Acott, Robson, Robinson, Thorogood, Stokes, Wilson, S Grouse

Subs used: J Grouse, Dowling, Garner

Match Report: AIFC 4-3 Bilston Town

Sat, 09 Oct 2021 13:12:54 GMT

FT: AIFC 4-3 Bilston Town

We didn’t do it the easy way but what an ending to a game and a terrific 3 points!

A cracking 90 minutes for the 143 spectators, with some super goals, Jordan Wilson with all 4 for us!

What a game!

Match Report: OJM Black Country 5-2 AIFC

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 13:15:51 GMT

FT: OJM Black Country 5-2 AIFC

A game of 2 halves and we were arguably the better side 1st but couldn’t really get going 2nd.

The first major chance of the game went our way and Sam Grouse had the ball in the back of the net but it was deemed to have been offside.

The hosts took the lead midway through the half but we were soon back on level terms through Jordan Wilson, following some quality link up play between Grouse and Luke Thorogood.

HT: 1-1

OJM went ahead early in the 2nd half. Tyler Williamson had to pull off some great saves in nets to keep it to 2 but the hosts broke through and doubled their lead with 15 to go to make it 3-1.

Ivanhoe hit straight back and Wilson again pulled one back for us with a smart finish to keep us in the game at 3-2.

Chasing the game into the final minutes we found ourselves 4-2 down, and then in added time a lob made it 5.

Back at the NFU on Saturday as we host Bilston - it’s the international break so why not come and join us for some entertaining non-league football!

Match Report: Coventry Copsewood 1-7 AIFC

Sat, 02 Oct 2021 11:49:24 GMT

FT: Coventry Copsewood 1-7 AIFC

Super away day in Coventry despite the weather with AIFC dominant and superior throughout, controlling it from start to the finish!

We started extremely brightly and after 2 minutes Jake Conkay struck the bar following a great save by the Copsewood keeper.

Early Ashby pressure paid off as a Chris Acott corner couldn’t be kept out by the keeper to put us 1 up on 6 minutes.

Our lead doubled after 12 as Mitch Woodbine played through a defence splitting ball, Jordan Wilson left it for Sam Grouse and he slotted straight through the keepers legs.

Midway through the half it was 3 when Luke Thorogood dinked a perfect ball into Jordan Wilson, Wilson swivelled on then spot and drove the ball into the bottom left corner of the goal.

A moment of Individual brilliance saw our lead grow to 4 as Acott slid past 5 Copsewood men on a run to take him from the left wing to centre of the goal, he then calmly slotted home with his right foot!

Moments before the break Wilson and Grouse played some beautiful link up play. Wilson fired it in to Grouse, who laid it back and Wilson smashed it in over the keeper off the underside of the bar.

HT: Coventry Copsewood 0-5 AIFC

Ivanhoe started as we’d finished the first half and it was soon 6 as Sam Grouse’s shot took a slight deflection but still found it’s way into the back of the net.

Wilson got his hatrick 15 minutes from time as Woodbine won the ball back well on the right wing, he pulled it back to Wilson, who placed past the keeper for his hatrick!

Late on former Ivanhoe forward Antonio Williams pulled a goal back with a top corner cross come shot.

A superb outing, and 7 doesn’t do us justice!

AIFC XI: Williamson, Conkay, Holmes, McAllister, Hankin, Donaghy, Thorogood, Woodbine, Acott, S Grouse, Wilson

Subs used: J Grouse, McGarry, Garner

Match Report: FT: AIFC 0-1 Romulus FC

Sat, 25 Sep 2021 13:18:19 GMT

FT: AIFC 0-1 Rom ulus FC

Ivanhoe bow out of the FA Vase after 10 man Romulus took the lead mid-second half in a game of few chances for either side.

All the best to Romulus in the next round

Match Report: AIFC 3-2 Cradley Town

Sat, 18 Sep 2021 22:15:44 GMT

FT: AIFC 3-2 Cradley Town

Not at our best today but we dug in to get the win late on and came from 2-1 down so plenty to take from that!

Ivanhoe started quick and Sam Grouse put us 1 up after 3 minutes as he rounded the keeper and finished from a tight angle. Liam Donaghy provided the assist with a sublime ball that cut the Cradley defence in half!

Cradley soon got the equaliser with a header from a corner.

15 minutes from the break, our visitors went 1-2 up after the ball was given away cheaply in the middle of our half, Cradley played it through the middle and their striker got on the end of it and scored.

On the 44th, Wilson was played in by Grouse to convert from the 6 yard line to get us back level.

HT: AIFC 2-2 Cradley Town

Cradley came close first in the 2nd half as they struck the cross bar.

Ivanhoe left it late as Wilson twisted and turned on the left side of the box 7 minutes from time, he then pulled it back to Luke Thorogood who took a touch and slotted past the keeper put us ahead!

Ivanhoe took control and brilliant hold up play by both Wilson and Will Robson in the corner of the pitch saw time dwindle down and we saw the game out.

Not at our best, but a wins a win and it’s puts us back up to 5th.

AIFC XI: Williamson, Conkay, Holmes, McAllister, Stewart, Hession, Donaghy, Thorogood, Woodbine, Wilson, S. Grouse.

Subs used: Robinson, Robson, Garner

No midweek game this week, but there is a big one at the NFU next weekend as we host MFL Prem side Romulus in the FA Vase 2nd qualifying round!

Match Report: AIFC Knights 3-2 Sileby Town

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 14:24:18 GMT

FT: AIFC Knights 3-2 Sileby Town

A Robbie Harrison last minute winner secures the 3 points for the boys tonight in emphatic style!

We 1-0 down early on but then a brace from Zinga Lawrence turned it around to 2-1, with the 2nd being a super strike that the keeper wouldn’t have see until it was in the back of the net!

It was a hard fought game and our visitors had numerous chances to go ahead after they had equalised to make it 2-2.

Fortunately they didn’t take them and Harrison popped up on the edge of the box to tuck one into the bottom corner in the 92nd minute.

It was a clinical Ivanhoe performance that in the end got us the win!

Well done lads!

Match Report: Atherstone 1-1 AIFC

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 12:17:28 GMT

F T: Atherstone 1-1 AIFC

Another superb advert for non league football tonight, we’ll be disappointed to concede late on but in the end it’s probably a fair result and a good point on the board.

The game started frantic and an early chance fell for Atherstone as a cross come shot effort clipped the top of the bar.

Our first chance came as we played some great one-two football on the edge of the Atherstone box, Sam Grouse pulled the trigger but he had his shot well saved.

Williamson in the ashby goal then made a quality save from a Atherstone shot from distance.

Ivanhoe had to ride 10 minutes worth of pressure mid-half, and then we hit back with 2 chances in quick succession.

The first came as Liam Donaghy let one fly from outside the box which forced the Atherstone keeper to tip over the bar. Soon after Grouse’s shot was then tipped round the post!

HT: Atherstone 0-0 AIFC

The 2nd half started as the 1st ended with both teams going toe to toe.

The deadlock was broken on the 70th minute as the host’s Carsley handled it in the box and Sam Grouse stepped up to convert calmly from the spot.

Williamson had to make another great save from a long distance shot which was moving all over the place.

With 5 to go we had a fantastic chance to go 2-0 up as Grouse and Robson exchanged in the box and Robson found himself 1-on-1, credit to the Atherstone keeper though as he came flying out to make a cracking stop.

3 minutes from time it was 1-1 as Jamie Hoodie looped his header into the far corner of the goal.

Atherstone then turned up the pressure but ivanhoe remained solid as we had all night and saw it out to take a point.

We can come away with the comfort that not many sides will go there this season and leave with a point and other than Stapenhill we’re the only team to take points off them so far this season!

AIFC XI: Williamson, Conkay, Holmes, McAllister, Stewart, Hession, Donaghy, Thorogood, Woodbine, Wilson, S. Grouse.

Subs used: Robson, Acott

Next up we play Cradley Town at the NFU this Saturda y.

Girls U13’s In Their First League Match

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 14:27:12 GMT

Well done to our U13’s in their first league match today! Not only did you look the part in your new kit (thank you to our team sponsor Sade at Give Mortgages) but more importantly you played the part each one of you played with great determination, you didn’t let first match nerves overwhelm you and you showed great team spirit! We're already looking forward to next weeks home game and watching you develop throughout the season!

Match Report: FA Vase - Haughmond 2-3 AIFC

Sat, 11 Sep 2021 14:29:47 GMT

A superb performance away from home against a higher level opponent puts us into the next round of the FA Vase! In the next round we’ll play Romulus at the NFU on the 25th September!

An extremely quick start saw the boys lead 2-0 after only 10 minutes!

The first came in the 3rd minute when Liam Donaghy crossed from the left straight to Sam Grouse who scored with a first time finish.

The second was in the words of the Club President - “absolute quality”! This time Grouse dummied the defender, then ran around him and curled his effort over the advancing keeper from outside the box.

It was nearly 3 on the half an hour mark as Donaghy made a lung busting run forward and exchanged passes with Grouse. Liam’s low cross then just eluded Jordan Wilson at the near post.

We came close again as Wilson made an interception and then slid in Grouse, his dink finish beat the keeper but hit the post.

HT: Haughmond 0-2 AIFC

The third did come 2 minutes into the 2nd half as Grouse crossed in from right hand side and Wilson side footed calmly into the corner of the goal!

8 minutes from time our hosts pulled one back on the breakaway, their No 10 finished well and it went in off the pos t.

Then on the 85th the ‘Mond’ pulled it back to 2-3 with a left footed strike from the No.3 to make it a nervy ending.

Fortunately the boys saw it out and Haughmond were reduced to 10 men in the final moments of the game for a foul on Jake Conkay.

The presidents MOTM - Will Robson!

Next up we are back in league action and travel to Atherstone on Tuesday evening for a tough MFL clash!

Match Report: AIFC 1-2 Stapenhill

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 14:33:14 GMT

FT: AIFC 1-2 Stapenhill

Tonight’s game was a great advert for non league football tonight with toe-to-toe battles all over the pitch. The intensity started high and it didn’t drop throughout, a point each would have been fair but sadly it didn’t go our way in the end.

Ahead of the game Club President, David Morris, addressed the crowd in Memory of Eric Avins, with all then showing their respects with a minutes applause.

With both sides starting quick, it was the visitors that got on the scoresheet first after only 6 minutes via Teeney.

Ivanhoe hit straight back as early substitute Ross McGarry floated a cross from the right to Liam Donaghy on the edge of the box. He had time for a touch, but without hesitation he took it on first time and emphatically side-foot volleyed it into the top corner!

Up until the break the game remained even with both sides enjoying spells of pressure and going in at the break square was about right.

HT: AIFC 1-1 Stapenhill

Ashby’s first chance of the 2nd half came when Mitch Woodbine twisted and turned on the right hand side, he then crossed into the centre of the box for Luke Thorogood to rise but his on target header fell straight into the hands of the keeper.

Lewis Ward then had to pull off a great save midway through the half to keep us level.

With 13 minutes to go we found ourselves with it all to do as we went behind to an Ashley Garner goal from a set piece.

The remainder of the game turned scrappy with us not able to create any major dangerous chances, and in the end fell to a narrow 1-2 defeat.

Massive thanks to the bumper 200+ crowd that came down to watch - tough one to take but plenty of positives!

Next up we’re away to Haughmond in the FA Vase on Saturday.

First Ever Junior Girls Team

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 14:34:56 GMT

O ur first ever junior girls team kicked off their campaign at the NFU yesterday morning with a great 10-2 victory!

Well done girls, enjoy your first season together as a team!

Match Report: AIFC 8-1 Khalsa

Sat, 04 Sep 2021 14:38:30 GMT

FT: AIFC 8-1 Khalsa

Superb outing from the boys today, controlled it from start to finish and played some quality football!

It took only 90 seconds for Luke Thorogood to get back on the scoresheet for the Ivanhoe as Sam Grouse played him in down the right hand side and he finished it across the keeper into the far corner.

Midway through the 2nd half Jordan Wilson made it 2 as he flicked it round the keeper having been slid in by Thorogood.

It was soon 3 as Wilson got onto the end of a cross from the right hand side to flick it past the on-rushing goalkeeper.

Just before the break Nathan McAllister made it 4 as he headed home a quality Liam Donaghy free kick.

HT: AIFC 4-0 Khalsa

7 minutes into the second half, Donaghy picked up the ball on the left wing near the half way line and he played an exquisite volleyed pass over the Khalsa defence into Wilson, who took a lovely first touch and slotted past the keeper for his hatrick!

Khalsa pulled one back in the 56th as a ball over the top was converted.

Soon after, Sam Grouse found himself 1 on 1 after lovely ball was played through from the midfield, he skinned the keeper and passed into the net to make it 6.

Wilson got his fourth on the 66th as S.Grouse played a ball to him with the outside of his foot, Wilson took in his man on the edge of the box and curled it into the top corner.

Fortune Sibanda then made it 8 with 18 to go.

Ivanhoe went down to 10 men when McAllister made a late challenge when last man.

Ivanhoe continued to control the game and made a few good chances but couldn’t score.l to secure a brilliant 3 points.

Thanks to the 126 that came to watch the game!

We’re next in action this Tuesday when we host our unbeaten rivals Stapenhill at the NFU - it should be a great game and we hope you can make it!

AIFC goal scorers:

Jordan Wilson x4

Luke Thorogood x1

Sam Grouse x1

Nathan McAllister x1

Fortune Sibanda x1

Match Report: Heath Hayes 4-3 AIFC

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 14:41:58 GMT

FT: Heath Hayes 4-3 AIFC

Unbelievable final 10 minute comeback from Heath Hayes as they scored 3 headers to take the points.

The first half an hour was a struggle and we didn’t really get going, with Heath Hayes taking the lead with a scrappy goal after 15 minutes.

We started to improve and got back level just before the break as Jack Hession held up the ball on the edge of the box, he layed it back to Jordan Wilson who placed his shot into the far corner of the goal. A superb finish and the only place he could have put it!

HT: Heath Hayes 1-1 AIFC

Ivanhoe came out the traps quick and went ahead on the 48th minute as Sam Grouse scored an amazing lob from 25 yards following a flick on from Wilson.

We were absolutely flying and deservedly got our 3rd midway through the half when Grouses initial shot was well saved by the hosts keeper, the rebound fell to Wilson who smashed it into the back of the net.

We were well on top and in control of the game and I’m not sure anyone saw what was coming next.

Heath Hayes looked down and out but pulled one back in the 82nd minute with a header to make it 2-3.

The equaliser then followed on the 86th, another ball in from the wing that was headed home.

After being 3-1 down with 10 to go Heath Hayes completed a (sadly) incredible turnaround with another headed go in the 90th minute.

Extremely tough to come away from that with nothing - funny old game is non league football!

Next up:

Knights are at the NFU Thursday night vs Magna, and the first team at back at home on Saturday vs Khalsa.

Match Report: AFC Bridgnorth 2-2 AIFC

Sat, 28 Aug 2021 14:47:53 GMT

FT: AFC Bridgnorth 2 -2 AIFC

Tough one to take as we concede a last minute equaliser on an away day that’s a 120 mile round trip!

The hosts took the lead on 30, and then Jordan Wilson struck straight back moments later to make it 1-1.

We then took the control midway through the 2nd half as Wilson got his 2nd of the game when he converted from the spot.

Heartbreak for ivanhoe then came as Bridgnorth equalised in the last minute of normal time.

We go again on Bank Holiday Monday with another away game at Heath Hayes, 3pm KO!

Huge thank you to everyone that travelled to support the boys, it’s a long trip so it’s appreciated massively!

Match Report: AIFC 2-1 Coventry Copsewood

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 14:50:41 GMT

FT: AIFC 2-1 Coventry Copsewood

It was an entertaining game tonight at the NFU Sports Ground as the boys had to work hard in the closing stages to take the points!

We started bright and created a couple of good chances, the best fell after 18 minutes to Jordan Wilson on the edge of the box but the his shot was straight at the keeper who saved well.

Ivanhoe then took the lead in the 30th minute as Mitch Woodbine played in Wilson on the left hand side of the box, he then took on his man and drilled the ball across the front of goal to be slid into the net by the helpless Coventry defender!

HT: AIFC 1-0 Cov Copsewood

It was a super start to the second half for us as Jack Hession converted a Liam Donaghy corner kick 3 minutes in to give us a 2-0 lead and put us in control.

The Coventry goalkeeper then had a spell of 15 minutes where he saved everything that came at him, including a Sam Grouse 1 on 1.

The visitors got back into the game with a great finish I got he top corner from the edge of the box with just over 25 to play.

Coventry started to get on top and there was some heroic last ditch tackling being made by centre back pairing Holmes and Conkay.

The final 10 minutes Coventry gave it their all but the ivanhoe defence and midfield stood firm heading and clearing everything away to hold on for a terrific 3 points and make it 3 wins in 4.

Also congratulations to Jack Robinson who started tonight to make his 50th appearance for AIFC!

He’s a great example of the progression structure in place at the club to transition players from the clubs youth set up into the senior squads!

AIFC Starting XI:

Cannon, Winfield, Conkay, Holmes, Stewart, Robinson, Donaghy, McGarry, Woodbine, Wilson, Grouse

Subs used:

Hession, Hankin, McAllister

Junior Presentation Day

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 14:52:50 GMT

Junior Presentation day was a great afternoon yesterday and thanks to all that came - we hope you all enjoyed it!

Here are the U10 Knights after they picked up their medals and trophies!

More pictures to follow and thanks to the AIFC team that put the event on!

Match Report: Ellistown 2-2 AIFC Knights

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 14:54:55 GMT

FT: Ellistown 2 -2 AIFC Knights

A well-earned point in the end for the boys tonight as keeper Lewis Ward turned into Allison Becker with a 90+4 header to make it 2-2!

The game couldn’t have started much worse as the hosts took the lead after only 15 seconds with a counter attack from the kick off.

Ivanhoe then had 2 quick fire penalty appeals turned down in the 17th and 18th minute, with the first looking very harsh to be waived away by the referee!

Moments later the ref pointed to the spot after a foul in the box on an Ellistown player, AIFC Keeper Lewis Ward saved well but was adjudged to have been off his line. The 2nd attempt sent him the wrong way and we found ourselves 2-0 down.

HT: Ellistown 2-0 AIFC

Very much more of what we saw first half for most of the 2nd, however 20 minutes from time the boys found an extra 10% and stepped it up.

Our persistence paid off in the 77th minute when an Andy Hulley set piece was floated into the box from the left, and Cameron Sellors looped his header over the keeper to make it 2-1!

The last throw of the dice came in the 90+4 as we won a free kick on the left side of the opponents half, Hulley again delivered a perfect cross and keeper Lewis Ward rose to smash his header home!

Unbelievable ending to the game, and we leave Ellistown with a hard earned point!

Match Report: AIFC 7-0 Nuneaton Griff

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 14:58:13 GMT

FT: AIFC 7-0 Nuneato n Griff

Following his hatrick on Saturday it took only 15 minutes for Sam Grouse to give us the lead after Harry Stewart played a wonderful cross field ball to find him, Sam was 1-on-1 and slotted past to get his 4th of the season.

Ivanhoe made it 2 on the 36th as Grouse picked the ball up after the keeper fumbled his first shot, Sam skinned him and placed into the back of the net.

Our 3rd came as Liam Donaghy pinged a superb free kick to the back post, Grouse took it down and squared across the front of goal to Jordan Wilson who finished it off cooly.

Mitch Woodbine got his first of the season on the 44th with a shot from distance that nestled into the bottom corner.

A minute before the break the ball fell to Wilson who was 10 yards out after a flurry of shots on the Griff goal, Jordan finished well into the top corner.

HT: AIFC 5-0 Nuneaton Griff

The haul of goals continued in the 2nd half as Jack Ession picked the ball up in the right hand side, took a touch and whipped it behind the Griff defence, Luke Garner pounced on it to make it 6.

Grouse grabbed his 2nd hatrick in as many games with a long range strike into the bottom corner 1 minute from time to round off a superb AIFC performance tonight!

AIFC Starting XI:

Cannon, Winfield, Conkay, Holmes, Stewart, Donaghy, Robinson, McGarry, Woodbine, Grouse, Wilson

Subs used: Ession, Garner, Neal

Meet New Knights Manager David Ferguson

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 22:03:39 GMT

A shby Ivanhoe Football Club CIC are pleased to announce the arrival of their new Knights Manager David Ferguson.

David commented that he was delighted to be part of the team at Ashby Ivanhoe, he said, “ The club has a great ethos and facilities and now of course it’s very own ground the NFU. I am keen to get stuck into the job at hand”

Ashby Ivanhoe wish him well in his new role.

Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club - Are Inviting Applications For A Reserve Team Manager

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 14:48:04 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club - are inviting applications for a Reserve Team Manager - playing in the Leicestershire Senior League Premier Division - if you are interested please contact Andy Gray First Team and Club Manager on 07834 373805

Purchase Of The NFU Has Now Been Completed

Sun, 30 May 2021 20:30:12 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club Chairman Stuart Bonser is delighted to announce that the purchase of the NFU has now been completed. Thanks go out to all concerned in bringing this to fruition and the Club now looks forward to a prosperous future for all concerned, looking forward to working together to achieve this.

First Team Win The Don Amott Trophy Final

Sat, 22 May 2021 09:28:45 GMT

Congratulations to the First Team on winning the Don Amott Trophy Final today 2-1. Listen to what manager Andy Gray says about the match.

Charlie Tissington - A Thank You

Sat, 03 Apr 2021 10:08:19 GMT

E veryone at Ashby Ivanhoe FC, past and present, would like to acknowledge the vast contribution that Charlie Tissington Jnr has made to the club since the age of 13, following his decision to step down from his duties at the club.

Charlie has been involved from an early age and has done the lot. He started as a player and then progressed into management collecting a huge haul of trophies along the way. He then took on the role of Club Secretary which he has been doing for an unbelievable 37 years!

The impact he has had on the club over the years has been unsurpassed and we now look forward to welcoming him back to the NFU as a fan for many years to come.

Club Chairman Stuart Bonser commented, “The years of service that Charlie has given the Club as a player, Manager and Official is, without doubt, one that he should be proud of and I wanted to thank you Charlie, on behalf of all involved for the mammoth amount of hours he has devoted to the club over the course of his involvement and his commitment and deserved recognition will be duly honoured by the club”.

The Club President and lifelong friend, David Morris, added, “Charlie has been the backbone of Ashby Ivanhoe for over 4 decades. His organisation skills, faultless administration & meticulous planning has given hundreds of players, officials & spectators the ability to enjoy local football in a safe & structured environment & his encyclopaedic knowledge of local football will be impossible to replace ! His integrity, honesty & care has been pivotal in driving Ivanhoe’s progression down the years & for that he should be very proud & the football club forever grateful.”

AIFC Join Don Amott Spring Cup!

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 09:14:15 GMT

Following the news that organised sport can return from 29th March , the first team have taken up the opportunity to join the Don Amott Spring Cup which has kindly been set up by Borrowash Victoria.

It offers an exciting return to football and there are 10 teams now confirmed, many of which we are familiar with from our time playing in the East Midland Counties League, as well as local MFL Prem side Gresely Rovers.

Dates & fixtures have been confirmed and the tournament will run from the 17th April to mid-May, with us hosting Ingles, Gresley and Mickleover in the group stage.

The highlight fixture will be when we play host to Mickleover and it will be a fantastic to see a Step 3 side at the NFU that have Pablo Mills (ex. Derby) and Stuart Beavon (ex. Burton) amongst their ranks as well as being manged by former Brewers midfielder John McGrath.

First Team Manager, Andy Gray, commented, "I'm delighted that our club are involved in the upcoming Don Amott Spring Cup. The competition sees us come up against some tough opposition, in particular Mickleover and Gresley. It also gives us the opportunity to see some old faces from our time in the East Midland Counties League. We are delighted to be able to return to training on the 30th and look forward to getting back to playing competitive football when the tournament begins.”

Group Stage Fixtures:

A t present, the guidance suggests that these games will be played behind closed doors, however if this changes we will update you.

AIFC Join Ashby Sport Initiative!

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 10:56:04 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club are excited to be joining the new Ashby Sport initiative in collaboration with Ashby Town Council.

We are looking forward to engaging with the other local sports clubs and building a close knit sporting community within the town.

The focus is to celebrate local sports, help increase participation in and raise awareness of everything sport related that Ashby has to offer.

Please search for ‘Ashby Sport’ on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up to date with news.

Discover and try new sports that maybe you didn't know we had in Ashby!

More info: www.ashbysport.com

Ashby Ivanhoe FC Teenagers Help Raise Money During Lockdown For Mental Health Charity Mind

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 21:37:19 GMT

T eenagers from Ashby Ivanhoe FC spent this lockdown raising money for Mental Health charity Mind.

The management team at Ashby Ivanhoe Under 18s who play in the Leicestershire Floodlit Youth League were looking for ways for the players to stay fit during this lockdown before football would be allowed to restart in March.

They settled on running 28 miles in the 28 days of February, and players chose charity was Mind. They had the option to run a mile a day, or 7 miles over the course of each week- with 17 players completing the target, raising £170.

Manager Conrad Carrolan expressed that "I am incredibly proud of the lads for deciding to take part in this challenge. The lads were showing a maturity, thinking of others who are struggling or not as fortunate as themselves. They've thoroughly enjoyed it and laughed along the way, which has also boosted morale in the squad. They're all working really hard in terms of getting ready for the restart"

Coaches James Summers & Mo Aswat said, “We knew people were struggling in this lockdown more than any other so far and the players wanted to help in any way they co uld. Some players finished within the first week, and the last player finished at 9pm on Sunday the 28th with some encouraging to get over the line!

A lot of the players have jobs or are studying for A Levels, so for them to find the time to fit in this on top of that is something for them all to be proud of.”

After being given the green light from the government for football to resume, the team are waiting for news of if and when they can complete the season.

The club chairman, Stuart Bonser, added, “ T he players should be really proud of their individual and collective achievement and for the monies raised in supporting such an important charity”.

Ian Irving Head Groundsman Completes Pitch Maintenance Course

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 16:00:56 GMT

Ian Irving - Head Groundsman at Ashby Ivanhoe FC, has just completed and passed his Level 1 Pitch Maintenance Course through the Grounds Maintenance Association. Well done Ian! from all at AIFC

Football Fan Knits For Premature Babies

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 11:36:42 GMT

A local football fan and member of Ashby Ivanhoe FC has been busy with her knitting skills during lockdown.

Val Taylor of Ashby was contacted by her Daughter, Tara, to put her knitting skills to the test in response to need at Derby Hospital.

Val, explained, "My daughter Tara has a friend who is a midwife at Derby Hospital and she said they were in need of some hats for the pre-mature babies – and I can knit (a little!) so thought I would give it a go".

She continued, "The hats have ‘traffic light’ coloured bobbles or stripes on them, so the Nurses can easily identify what stage the baby is at".

The above photo shows samples of the handful of the hats that have been made – but Val says that she still has plenty of wool for many more !!

Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club Welcome A New Team

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Wed, 03 Feb 2021 09:51:27 GMT

As part of the re-structure and transition into the CIC, Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club are delighted to welcome new officers to the club.

The re-structure sees the following volunteers join the club and to help support the next phase of the clubs progress:

Derek Barrett - Treasurer and Fundraiser Officer

Stuart Mann - Senior Secretary

Steph Rawden - Junior Secretary

Chris Wood and Kim Binns - CWO

Gary Timms - Head of Junior and Youth Football

Neil Crowder - Head of Girls and Ladies Football

Nicole Featherstone - In The Community Officer

Bryan Smith - Marketing and Communications

Lee Barrett - Matchday and Tournament Co-Ordinator

Ryan Morris - Social Media Officer

Ian Irving - Groundsman

The new look team join the established volunteers of:

Stuart Bonser - Club Chairman

Andy Gray - Football Club Manager

David Buckley - Club Events Officer

The Club Chairman, Stuart Bonser, commented, "It is with great pleasure that we welcome on board the new volunteers at Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club. As the Club enters into another exciting phase in its history, it is pleasing to see so many new faces join an already established group of volunteers and all of which will help the club push forward with future plans".

Meet Our Sponsors

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 21:20:54 GMT

Whilst our club is still closed for business as we are currently in lockdown still, we thought it would be great opportunity to support our local business sponsors whose support during the pandemic has been invaluable to our club. So please take the time to read and visit our sponsors listed below.

A Sutton Roofing

For all your roofing needs.

01530 830774

07789 773080

asuttonroofing@xln.co.uk

Aeternum Aesthetics

We treat a wide a variety of skin concerns including:

Acne - Rosacea - Pigmentation - Ageing

01530 417897

www.aeternumaesthetics.co.uk

4 Bakery Court, Market Street, Ashby de la Zouch, LE65 1AN

Ashby Carpets

Carpets - Vinyl - Wood - Rugs - Remnants

01530 56023 3

www.ashbycarpets.net

84 Smisby Rd, Ashby-de-la-Zouch LE65 2JL

Ashby Kitchen & Bathrooms

Kitchen and bathroom planners and installers.

01530 588946

BetBre Bookmakers

Independent bookmaker in Ashby.

01530 610359

23 Market Street, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, LE65 1AF

Daybreak Services

Wholesale Fresh Fruit, Veg, Groceries, Hardware, Home & Garden.

01530 415705

3a High Street, Packington, Ashby de la Zouch, LE65 1WJ

Derby Gaskets Ltd

Specialists in sealing technology.

01332 360701

info@derbygaskets.com

www.derbygaskets.com

Units 1-4 Racecourse Industrial Park, Mansfield Road, Derby, DE21 4SX

Equestriana

Your one stop equestriana shop and embroidery service.

01530 412222

07970 203246

office@equestriana-ashby.co.uk

www.equestriana-ashby.co.uk

Football Fan UK

Selling official men’s football shirts from around the world.

ffanuk@gmail.com

www.footballfanuk.com

Give Mortgages Ltd

Mortgage broker and insurance adviser.

01530 234899

07488 387813

sade@givemortgages.co.uk

www.givemortgages.co.uk

Gray Building Services

Extensions - Alterations - new builds

07834 373805

01455 846481

a.b.gray03@gmail.com

Jeff Vapes

For quality liquids, kits, accessories & more.

01530 587878

www.ashbyvape.co.uk

1 Rushston’s Yard, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, LE65 1AL

Keller Construction

Building Contractors in the East Midlands, building houses, barn conversions, private client self-build projects, plus commercial projects.

01530 417683

info@kellerconstruction.co.uk

www.kellerconstruction.co.uk

6 Mill Farm Lane, Ashby de la Zouch, LE65 1GR

M.J. Farrell & Sons Ltd

Home extension specialists.

01283 212155

07976 692440

07734 426425

www.farrellbuilders.co.uk

NFU Mutual

Offers insurance, investments, pensions, life cover, risk management services and financial advice.

01530 886426

www.nfumutual.co.uk

8 Mill Farm, Mill Farm Lane, Ashby De La Zouch, Leicestershire, LE65 1GR

Norwood Press

Design and print solutions.

01530 262020

info@norwoodpress.co.uk

www.norwoodpress.co.uk

Unit 1, Moore Road, South Leicester Industrial Estate, Ellistown, Leicestershire, LE67 1EU

Oak Green Design & Construct Ltd

Development of luxury properties.

01530 482181

07971 686621

info@oakgreendesign.co.uk

www.oakgreendesign.co.uk

Field House, Worthington Lane, Newbold, Leicestershire, LE67 8PJ

Rethink Maintenance

Rethink is based in Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire, providing home, property and garden maintenance solutions for domestic and commercial customers.

01530 451609

07878 448967

james@rethinkmaintenance.co.uk

www.rethinkmaintenance.co.uk

S.D. Hill Plumbing & Heating Ltd

Plumbing , heating & gas services .

01530 415986

07980 015807

info@sdhillplumbing.co.uk

www.sdhillplumbing.co.uk

Sladen Commercials

Used trucks bought and sold.

07733 267 929

01530 412754

mark@sladencommercials.co.uk

www.sladencommercials.co.uk

1 Glenalmond Close, Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire, LE65 2SD

Stephanie Jones

Award winning hair & beauty. Luxury redefined.

01530 560570

www.stephaniejoneshair.com

2-4 Coxons Mews, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, LE65 1LF

The Bed Shop

Quality Beds, Mattresses & bedroom furniture with dedicated custom er service.

01530 416660

www.thebedshopinashby.co.uk

92 Market Street, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, LE65 1AP

The Monkey Tree

Over 200 gins to choose from. We cater for any event from a romantic dinner for two, to larger wedding parties.

01530 560222

info@themonkeytreeashby.co.uk

www.themonkeytreeashby.co.uk

8 Mill Lane Mews, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire, LE65 1HP

The Short Cut

Established barbers situated in the market town of Ashby catering for the latest modern styles and traditional haircuts.
www.theshortcutashby.co.uk

1-3 Mill Lane Mews, Ashby , LE65 1HP

Zamanis

Homely restaurant serving Italian dishes.

01530 560719

www.zamanis.co.uk

Rushtons Yard, Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire, LE65 1AL

UPDATE | Midland Football League Fixtures

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 10:40:49 GMT

T he MFL have tonight informed us that they have further suspended fixtures until 28th February 2021 in line with the current lockdown.

T his comes as no surprise, and the situation will be reviewed when appropriate.

In the meantime, please continue to stay safe and follow all the Government guidelines!

Please Help Support Us During Lockdown - Lottery!

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Tue, 05 Jan 2021 10:47:44 GMT

A s like many other local sports teams and businesses we are now completely shut down for another period of lockdown, not knowing how long it will last this time round.

We appreciate all the support that we have been given so far and a really great way to support us would be to sign up to the monthly lottery we have recently launched (1st draw was Xmas eve!).

Half the money goes on 1st/2nd/3rd prize and the other half goes to club.

It’s just £5 per number by direct debit every month and is a great way to win some cash prizes whilst helping to support the club during hard times and beyond if you wish!

Email: fundraising@ashbyivanhoefc.co.uk to set up and get your number(s)!

Thank you!

UPDATE | National Lockdown No.3

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 10:53:23 GMT

Following the announcement of another Nation Lockdown last night, the FA has communicated the following:

We note the UK Government’s announcement on Monday 4 January with regards to the new national COVID-19 restrictions and lockdown.

As a result, the impact on ‘non-elite’ football in England will include the suspension of fixtures and training across the following with immediate effect:

- Steps three to six of the National League System

- All indoor and outdoor youth and adult grassroots football, including under-18s (except organised outdoor football for disabled people, which is allowed to continue)

More info:

https://www.thefa.com/news/2021/jan/04/covid-19-update-20200401?fbclid=IwAR0lkAacHdWjoM1qDCoVot2t9Jcwo6VT-NE8xMqH1-jGMD_1pOwOjpqfKSQ

Football Club Statement - Tuesday 3rd November 2020

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Tue, 03 Nov 2020 09:41:00 GMT

A s a football club, We are now in receipt of the statement from the FA on whether football will continue during the governments decision on lockdown from the 5th November- please read below:

As a result of the UK Government’s new national COVID-19 restrictions, and subject to Members of Parliament voting tomorrow [Wednesday 4 November 2020] and the publication of bespoke guidance from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport [DCMS], the impact on ‘non elite’ football in England will include the suspension of the following during this period:

• All fixtures and training for Steps 3-6 of the National League System [NLS];
• All fixtures and training for indoor and outdoor youth and adult grassroots football.

Our aim is to ensure that the 2020-21 season is completed at these levels and will liaise with the relevant leagues in the NLS and WFP and the County Football Associations [CFAs] to provide support and establish appropriate options to do so if required.

The UK Government has confirmed that school sport can continue as an exemption during this period.

Re-starting football at these levels has taken substantial determination and commitment from stakeholders across the game and we would like to thank everyone for their vital contributions. However, health and wellbeing remain the priority, so it is extremely important that clubs, players, coaches, match officials, league officials, volunteers, parents, carers and facility providers adhere to the UK Government’s new national COVID-19 restrictions during this period.

We remain in dialogue with the DCMS, leagues, competitions and CFAs and will provide further clarification for ‘non-elite’ football in England following the debate in the House of Commons tomorrow. (End of FA statement)

This news was expected but I’m sure you will be as equally disappointed as we are with the decision to stop playing football for this short term but I am sure you will agree that the priority in all of these uncertain times has to be the safety and well-being of everyone.

I would like to thank each and every one of you that has supported the football club since returning back from the first lockdown. So much time and effort has gone in to making our return safe and in accordance with the ever-changing guidelines and law and I thank you all for doing your bit to follow them as you have been asked. The support we have had from parents, spectators, volunteers, coaches, players and opponents from our under 7’s to the First team has been excellent and proves that together we are stronger and we will come through this next lockdown even stronger and more organised to welcome you all back.

I would like to express the football club’s sincere thanks also to all of the NHS staff that have continued to provide the unbelievable care they do, not just this time but at any time that we need them. A great thank you to all of our schools that will remain open during this time to support our children’s education. Let’s also share a thought for those people that have lost someone through COVID. If you know anyone that has lost anyone, or who may need support at this time, then please consider giving them a call or dropping them a line to check in and see how they are - it means so much I’m sure and we all have the power to do this.

The support the football club has received over the last few months from local businesses has been overwhelming too, and at a time that they are also all facing tough challenges. I urge you all to support these businesses over the coming weeks and long into the future. I will be posting a list in the coming days, along with any offers you can enjoy, so please show your support they will really appreciate it.

On a separate note, this year will be the first year that we and hundreds of local people will not be able to join the parade for Remembrance Day and this has been really special to us all at the Football club. It’s been an honour to lay a wreath for all service personnel that gave their lives for us, and indeed are still serving our great Country today. Despite not being able to attend in person, we will still be laying a wreath before the official recognition of the day on the 11th November. Let’s all spare a thought on this day and days leading up to it for all those service people that fought and continue to protect our world, and give thanks for the freedom we enjoy despite lockdown being tough for us all. Just imagine how tough it was back then for families and society as a whole and it kind of puts things into perspective a little.

Once we receive official confirmation of the decision on whether non elite football can continue we will advise accordingly, but in the meantime be safe and thank you again for all of your continued support, each and every one of you.

The CIC Directors continue to work hard over the coming weeks to purchase the ground and progress to the redevelopment of the site including a 3G pitch. Be sure to visit our website for updates and keep looking at all of the social media channels for the latest news and how you can support the football club.

Keep yourself and your families safe

Stuart Bonser
Club Chairma n

30 Ladies Got Fit to Fund!

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Fri, 23 Oct 2020 13:53:26 GMT

On 10th September 30 ladies took part in a Zumba event on the Ivanhoe Field - Covid-19 guidelines followed of course. The event, run by Blanka Harvey was absolutely a gr eat success! Everyone really enjoyed it and raised a whopping £600 for the ‘Save our Ground’ cause.

Ladies then stayed to indulge in cake and fizz afterwards and ask when the next event would be!

Some great comments were given by many people…

“Loved it!! Had an absolute blast. Really hope you do another soon xx.”

“Thank you so much for a great evening, very well organised too xx.”

“Great Zumba session Blanka Harvey, really enjoyed it.”

These were just a few of the many comments people sent in.

Along with the fund raising was a wonderful raffle in which generous prizes were given by many local businesses - in this current climate the club are immensely grateful for the support and help given by so many.

The next event has already been organised for 30th October and has been so popular that two sessions have had to be put on - 6pm until 6.45pm and 7.45pm until 8.30pm and the first session sold out in 20 minutes! After each session everyone is welcome to stay for pizza and fizz - all Covid-19 secure.

A Christmas event has now been arrange for 18th December - get in quick to book your space! www.ashbyivanhoefc.co.uk/zumba-events

Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club was formed in 1948, on 1 ^st June 2020, the football club was reconstituted as a Community Interest Company, which means that it is a member owned, not for profit business. The club needs to purchase the land and are fundraising to make that happen.

If you would like to help, however small, here’s the link to donate https://www.gofundme.com/f/save-ashby-ivanhoe-fc039s-football-ground - a great initiative for what is set to be a superb facility for the town.

Ashby Ivanhoe FC Aim To Raise £1.3million In Bid To Save Their Ground, Then Make It A Community Hub For The Town

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 11:28:01 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe FC have launched a bid to raise £1.3million to buy their ground and put their 'adventurous' plans into action.

The Midland League side must purchase the NFU Ground in Lower Packington Road by December 1st of this year.

And they have set up a Go Fund Me Page entitled: Save Ashby Ivanhoe FC's Football Ground.

They already have £153,000 of the £375,000 needed to complete the deal.

And once they have done that, they want to raise almost £1million to turn the area into a community hub with vastly improved facilities and room for 1,500 spectators.

The club's fundraising Initiative will be launched on Saturday (August 1) and is accompanied by a poster which says 'Help Us Save This Site's Future'.

On June 1st, the club was reconstituted as a Community Interest Company, which means that it is a member owned, not for profit business.

Jon Emmerson, Director of Ashby Ivanhoe CIC commented: “Our visions for the club are quite detailed and adventurous.

"But we want to make sure we secure the future of the club by purchasing the ground, whilst we create a true facility for the whole of our community.

"We are very excited about the fundraising initiative and what it will bring for the future.”

The visions for the club are set out below:

Build on the great facilities to make them even better for football in the community.
To create a community hub where people from the town can meet, hold their events and have a great family time.
Welcome everyone - not just football related but all sports and non-sport activities.
To provide long term security of the ground for the community and club.

But to achieve the visions the following must be completed:

The purchase of the ground before December 1st, 2020.

This will allow for phase two of the project to commence, details of which are set out below:

Create a new 9 v 9 size floodlit artificial training pitch
Build four changing rooms and two officials’ changing rooms
Refurbish the clubroom and bar for extended community use
Create on-site classroom and flexible multi-use space for football development, education, club meetings and other community use
Build a new drainage scheme to the existing grass main pitch
Create new frontage, signage and security gates with new car parking and landscaping
Club office space

Neil Johnson, Director of Ashby Ivanhoe CIC explained: “This will create a 1,500 capacity football ground with a community building and training facility, an achievement for Ashby I’m sure everyone will agree.”

Stuart Bonser, Chairman of Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club said: “To achieve this we need your help to raise the £1.3 million needed.

"The first milestone is to purchase the ground costing £375,000 and we already have £153,000 secured.

"From August 1, 2020, we launch our Fundraising Initiative to help raise the money.

"Over the coming months, however long it takes, we will be holding many events and opportunities to fundraise, such as bingo nights, race nights, donation buckets, a Go Fund Me page and lots more.

"Check in at the club, look on our website, suggest ideas but above all - please make a donation, however small!”

Here is the link to donate now Save Ashby Ivanhoe FC's Ground.

Head to Ashby Ivanhoe FC for more information about the club.

Summer Holiday Club 2020

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Wed, 22 Jul 2020 14:53:52 GMT

We are delighted to launch our new Multi-Sports Summer Holiday Club in conjunction with ME Sports!

ME Sports is leading Sports and Education company founded up by Leicester City Legend Matt Elliot and they became our preferred Training + Learning Partner earlier in the year.

The Summer Club is for both boys and girls aged from 4 to 14 years old and it is a fantastic opportunity to enhance their development in sport through the coaching of a vastly qualified and hugely experienced multi-sports coaching team.

Although the sessions are technique and skills based, they are very much about fun and enjoyment for all standards of players, as we aim to encourage all children to take part in sport. Everybody is welcome to attend and the activities may lead to opportunities with external sports clubs!

During the course of the clubs we cover a host of popular sports including team, ball, striking, field and target games...ranging from football and rugby to cricket and golf to basketball and netball to hockey to dodgeball etc.

It is a win-win situation for children in our multi-sports Holiday Club as they not only get to learn new sports and broaden their sporting knowledge and educational development but they also will make new friends and enhance social skills as well as the obvious benefits in terms of fitness, well-being and exercise.

The club will take place at The NFU Sports Ground on Lower Packington Road (LE65 1TS) from the 10th to the 28th August and sessions will be split into Mornings (9:00am – 12:00pm) and Afternoons (1:00pm – 4:00pm).

It is priced at £7.50 per session or £15:00 for the day.

To book a place on the course please fill out the form electronically and send to info@mesports.co.uk or print off the form and hand into the club with a cheque/ cash payment.

Click here to download form

Junior Structure Update

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Tue, 16 Jun 2020 08:54:34 GMT

We are delighted to share an update on the structure of the clubs Junior/Youth section, with the club appointing a Lead Director, Vice-Chairman and Junior/Youth Secretary.

Following the recent transition into a CIC, the football club now benefits from 3 Directors that will oversee the running’s of the club. Those Directors are Jon Emerson, Neil Johnson and Stuart Bonser.

Each Director will have specific roles to support the Management team structure of running the Football Club and it is with this in mind that we are delighted to announce that Neil Johnson will become the Director taking the role of Lead for the Junior/Youth section of the club.

Having been involved in the football club for a number of years and in particular with the growth of the Junior section when we moved to Lower Packington Road, it makes absolute sense as Neil brings a lot of value and experience to assist in the support and direction of the Junior/Youth section. In addition to his time with the Football Club, Neil has also been a long servant of the Rugby Club and Cricket Club and again was integrally linked with the growth and development of the Junior sections.

As the Club continues to grow it has been recognised that the Junior/Youth section hold significant value to our ethos as a Club and that representation at Management Team is paramount to engage with everyone associated within the Junior/Youth section and provide them with a voice into the Management Team.

With this in mind we have taken the decision to appoint a Vice Chairman to the Club with the specific responsibility of over-seeing and connecting the Junior/Youth section with the whole club and breed a “one club” ethos. It is with great pleasure that we announce that Bryan Smith has been appointed as the Vice Chairman and he will be working closely with Neil and our coaches to ensure that our pathway as a club involves everyone going forward.

Finally, the club has also appointed a Junior/Youth Secretary to assist with the smooth liaison between leagues and teams and we are delighted to announce the appointment of Stuart Mann into the role. Stuart brings experience in the role as he held the position a few years ago when he became secretary of the Sunday Adult team and is a welcome addition to the club.

In the coming weeks and as we get hopefully closer to finding out when football may return, then Neil, Bryan and Stuart will be introducing themselves to you all and you can then put a face to a name.

The appointment of Neil as Junior/Youth lead and with the addition of Bryan as Vice Chairman and Stuart as Junior Secretary shows that the club is committed to the long term goal of providing the transition of junior/youth players into Senior football, whilst giving coaches and players the voice and support they require to thrive at our club.

Please join everyone at the club in wishing them well in their new roles and we look forward to hopefully seeing you all again soon, when safe to do so.

Now Recruiting Players For Season 2020-21

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 04 Jun 2020 18:38:18 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe FC are looking for additional players to join us as we prepare for Season 2020-21!

We have spaces available in the following age groups:

Boys: U7’s, U8’s, U9’s, U10’s, U11’s, U 13’s, U 15’s, U 16’s + Under 18’s

Girls: U7’s, U9’s, U 12’s + Ladies

We also have openings for the following Teams and Coaches:

Under 12’s, Under 14’s, Under 15’s

Being a player at Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club gives your child the benefits of:

• Making friends that can last a lifetime

• Increasing self-confidence and sense of belonging to a team

• Improving communication with others

• Increasing energy and mental health well being

• Focus and routine Building of parent/child bonds that you can share together

Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club helps your child achieve these benefits through:

• Fun based learning

• Fair game time ethos to allow your child time playing in matches

• A family atmosphere with great facilities

Our club has been active in the Town for over 70 years, holds the Chartered Standard Club Status and has a vast team of experienced/qualified Coaching and Management Volunteers.

Our home ground, The NFU Sports Ground offers great facilities, with a large outdoor AstroTurf Beer Garden/Social and fun area-something to suit all ages on match days.

The above coupled with our ambitious plans to further develop the ground for the Community makes us the club to be part of.

For more information please contact info@ashbyivanhoefc.co.uk to register interest, or alternatively visit our Facebook page, as we have recently announced our Club Membership Package and offer, that allows you to have a say in the clubs present and future.

Ashby Ivanhoe FC CIC Membership Scheme

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Sat, 30 May 2020 14:19:21 GMT

We are delighted to now offer a variety of membership packages that have been launched to coincide with the club restructuring to a Community Interest Company (CIC) as of the 1st June 2020!

As an AIFC CIC member, this means that your contribution would go directly to supporting the Clubs plans along with getting a vote at the AGM and you can therefore have a direct influence on the way that the club is run, where the club is being taken and it would give you a say in the election and re-election of the Board of Directors.

As the club embarks on to an exciting new chapter in its history, the below outlines the clubs main plans for the near future:

1. To build on the significant work that volunteers have achieved at the site and to create new community football facilities to enhance the ongoing development of football in Ashby de la Zouch and North West Leicestershire more broadly.

2. To deliver priority outcomes for Leicestershire and Rutland County FA, and, in particular retaining and creating pathways for players (especially at 16+), developing skills and workforce, encouraging new participation (women/girls, mental and physical disability), and development of junior and adult small sided and 9v9 football.

3. To generate wider community benefit through football, sport and non-sport activities, particularly in the areas of health and well-being, education skills and employment, social inclusion and volunteering

4. To create a sustainable community business model for ongoing delivery of these aims long term.

5. To provide long term security of a home ground for Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club.

The main aim in the short term will be to assist with the club’s ambitious plans to purchase and undertake future development of the existing Sports Field into a community sports facility at Lower Packington Road, Ashby de la Zouch.

The club membership programme will also help us to improve your experience at the NFU Ground and associated facilities the Club plays at, which includes Hood Park and Western Park. Ongoing developments will be able to be viewed at our new website and this is where you will be able to view the plans and objectives for the club and the wider Community.

As an AIFC CIC member, you will also be automatically included in the clubs SOS (Support Our Sponsors) initiative which provides you with agreed savings/offers with our growing list of local and national businesses.

Due to the current situation with the Co-Vid 19 pandemic, this list has not been able to be finalised yet. More details on this initiative will follow with the levels of discount and savings which will be available, together with names of these local and national businesses in due course.

Benefits of Membership:

• A vote on the election of the Board

• A voice in the way the club benefits both football and the wider Community

• Direct contribution to the Clubs plans, aims and objectives

• Money saving offers with our SOS programme

• Members Newsletter and Forum

Membership Categories:

There are three membership categories on offer and these are set out below:

1. Life membership - £1,000

2. Club membership (over 18’s) - £50 per annum*

3. Junior membership (under 18’s) - £10 per annum*

JOIN BEFORE 31st JULY 2020 AND SAVE 50%!

*A 50% discount is to be offered for the first two months for the first years membership as a Club member.

New members within the first two month period will be recognised on the club website as a founder member.

Be part of your clubs future

Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club CIC offers you a unique opportunity to play a part in the future of your own football club.

Not for profit

The Company is not established or conducted for private gain; any surplus or assets are used principally for the benefit of the club

Share our vision

Most members are committed fans of Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club CIC, but we encourage membership by anyone who believes in our aims and ethos and wants to be part of our future.

By putting members and community at the heart of our club, we are showing that everyone can have a say in the way football should be run.

New Reserve Team Knights Manager Appointed

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Fri, 01 May 2020 18:43:41 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club are delighted to announce the appointment of Anthony Hurd as their new Reserve (Knights) Team Manager and will be joining the club with immediate effect.

The Club Chairman, Stuart Bonser, commented on the appointment "On behalf of the Club it is with great pleasure that I am able to announce the appointment of Anthony Hurd as the new Reserve (Knights) Team Manager. We received some very good applications, and this is testament to how Ashby Ivanhoe FC is respected and recognised in the wider Football world and I would like to thank all those that applied. Anthony is familiar with the Leicestershire Senior League Premier Division with his time at Barlestone FC and this will bring experience to the existing players. I wish Anthony a warm welcome to our Club and every success in the future"

Anthony Hurd said "I am delighted to join Ashby Ivanhoe FC for a few reasons, one being the drive and determination of the chairman who has some exciting plans for the club. Secondly, I feel the club and the first team Manager, Andy Gray have the perfect ethos in developing and progressing players and this will give me the platform for grow as manager and in the direction I want to go. These factors wil I definitely lead to a successful time at the club and I cannot wait to get started with the Management Team and Players"

The Clubs First Team Manager Andy Gray added, "Anthony is another great addition to our management and coaching staff. Having worked with him briefly in the past, I know he'll bring with him a passion and desire to improve our club. One of the Chairman's and my immediate goals was to have a collective senior management team who are like minded in their footballing ethics. This has been further cemented by Anthony's appointment. I am looking forward, massively, to working with him and our other recent additions, as soon as we are able to do so of course".

New Senior Coach Appointed

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 18:50:15 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club are delighted to announce the appointment of Chris Wood as their new Senior Coach and Chris will be joining the club with immediate effect.

The Club Chairman, Stuart Bonser, commented on the appointment "It is with great pleasure that the club has appointed Chris Wood to the position of Senior Coach and this further strengthens Andy Grays team and signifies his quest to move the Club forward. Chris really impressed us at the Interview and his ethos and beliefs were aligned with our "one club" approach and he comes to us with a lot of experience in Coaching and played as a youngster at Crawley Town FC. I wish Chris a warm welcome to our Club and every success in the future"

Chris Wood said "I can't wait to get started, whenever the current situation clears, and we are safely allowed to do so. Working with the boss Andy Gray is a big pull and too good of an opportunity to turn down. I love the "one club" philosophy, and I know that it is young talented group of guys that we have to work with and help with their development. I'm looking forward to getting started and contributing to the team and helping make it a successful season next season, whenever that begins!"

The club is committed to its plans to progress the on the field ambitions and to bring Step 4 football to Ashby in the coming few years. This is further testament to the work that goes off behind the scenes at the club and Stuart Bonser added "I have always believed that Ashby has the key components to progress and sustain a Step 4 football Club. To achieve this we have to run parallel with what we are doing on the field to what we are doing off and I feel that we are now poised to make that push in the coming seasons with recent off the field progress and now an aligned Management Team from Youth to Senior".

The Clubs First Team Manager Andy Gray added, "I'm delighted that Chris has decided to join Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club. He will be a great addition to our coaching staff, and we are all very much looking forward to working with him. He shares the footballing ethics of our club and is an ideal appointment as we continue to strengthen on and off the pitch."

New Midweek Floodlit Under 18 Manager

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 23 Apr 2020 19:02:23 GMT

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Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club are delighted to announce the appointment of Conrad Corrolan as the new Midweek Floodlit Under 18 Manager with immediate effect.

The appointment of Conrad signifies further progress for the club as it re-establishes its status in the Midweek Floodlit Under 18 League.

The Club Chairman, Stuart Bonser, commented on the appointment "It is with great pleasure that the club has appointed Conrad Corrolan to the position of Manager for the Midweek Under 18 Floodlit Team. Conrad has been associated with the club for last few years as the Manager of our Under 17's team and this appointment recognises his commitment to establishing an elite squad of young players from our youth section and with the aim of progressing them into Senior football at the Club. We wish Conrad and his team every success in the future"

Conrad Corrolan said "I have been involved in the club for a number of years and this is a new and exciting challenge for me. Development of young players is a core element of the clubs ethos and my own and I look forward to getting on with the job. I am excited about how the club is moving forward and I'm pleased to be a part of it. And finally I would like to thank Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club and Chairman Stuart Bonser for giving me this opportunity."

The club is proud to have a committed structure that encourages players to progress at "one club" from Junior/Youth football into Senior football and the Midweek team is the link and offers players the opportunity to play under floodlights and against really competitive opposition.

The Clubs First Team Manager Andy Gray added, "I would personally like to congratulate Conrad on his appointment, along with his management team. Since my return to the club I have witnessed the good work that he's been doing and I believe he's the perfect fit for this new role. I look forward to working closely with him as we develop the relationship between Senior and Junior football at Ashby Ivanhoe"

The Club will be opening out Trials for the Squad once the COVID-19 situation has been relaxed and if you are interested in joining this squad then updates will appear on all of the clubs social media channels over the coming months.

Chairman Statement Covid-19

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 20:28:01 GMT

To all of our Players, Coaches, Parents and Volunteers Many of you may now be aware that the Football Association have taken the decision to end grassroots football and the current Season with immediate effect and as such making the 2019-20 season void.

Whilst this is disappointing for us all, I am sure you will agree, this decision has been taken for all of the right reasons given the world we are now experiencing and the serious impact that COVID 19 is having within Communities and across the Country.

In reality this decision does mean that there will be no promotion or relegation affecting our teams this season and that end of season Cup Competitions have been cancelled. As the Chairman of the Club I wanted to personally express my thanks to you all for the time, commitment and effort you have given over the course of the Season and it has certainly been a challenging one on many fronts from the weather to now the very real situation with COVID 19 but my appreciation to you all and I hope we can resume our love of the game as soon as it becomes safe to do so.

In light of the Season being drawn to a close I would also like to add that the Clubs Management Team are working hard behind the scenes to look at any support that can be offered from the Government, the FA and other authorities and I would like to ask that we all be patient over these un-precedented times as we look for ways of ensuring the clubs future and survival and that we are able to get through these next few months.

I know that many of you may have questions that we cannot answer right now but be assured that we are and will do everything we can to ensure that we get over the challenges ahead and that we are ready to resume when the right time allows.

We will keep you all up to date in the coming weeks on any matters that arise on our social media channels.

As a Club we play a huge part in the Community and we all should do our bit to support those in need during this time and this is where our football club really should come together for the greater good of our Community and we will be looking at ways that we can support the more vulnerable people in the Community and will share these in the near future.

We urge you all to keep following the advice and guidance given by the Government and to keep yourselves and your families safe.

For now, please keep safe and maybe it's a time for us all to reflect what is important in our lives and ensure that we hold on to that when we eventually get over this worrying time.

Keep well everyone

Stuart Bonser

Club Chairman

Coronavirus - COVID19

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 16 Mar 2020 13:04:37 GMT

In light of today’s announcement by the Prime Minister and the FA announcement that followed regarding grass roots football, along with directives from the BJFL, LYL, LSL, MFL and DCFL regarding the Coronavirus.

It is in the best interests of all of the clubs staff, coaches, players, volunteers and spectators that ALL training sessions and games for these leagues are cancelled from midnight tonight until further notice.

Regarding the Tamworth Junior Football League games, we have not yet heard from them, but the club takes the stance that training sessions for teams in this league are also cancelled.

The situation will be monitored closely and updates will be communicated as and when we receive them.

AIFC Management Team

Now Recruiting Club Welfare Officer (CWO)

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 09:37:18 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club is committed to ensuring a safe and fun environment and as part of our expanding club we are looking for volunteers to undertake the role of the Clubs Child Welfare Officer. The Club would welcome applications from both people involved already at the Club and from those members of the Community that would like to be involved in the Club and ho feel that they have the following attributes:

Always puts children’s welfare first
Is a good communicator
Has a common sense approach
Is willing to learn and seek advice
Is over the age of 18
Is committed to working collaboratively within footballs designated persons network

The Key Roles and responsibilities for the successful applicants are as follows:

1. To be clear about the clubs responsibilities when running activities for children and young people.

This involves:

Ensuring these responsibilities are well understood by others
Working with the Youth League Welfare Officer
Working with the County FA (CFA) Welfare Officer and other CFA staff as appropriate, (e.g. CFA Disciplinary staff)
Helping to develop best-practice processes and promoting The FA’s Respect Programme

2. To help club personnel understand what their ‘duty of care’ towards children and young people actually means and entails on a day-to-day basis

It is essential that the Club Welfare Officer is perceived as being approachable, having a child centred approach and the ability to maintain this perspective when carrying out their role.

The Club will support the successful applicants in gaining the following qualifications as part of their role:

An ‘accepted’ CRB check via The FA CRB Unit
The FA Safeguarding Children Workshop
The FA Welfare Officer Workshop

Applications are now invited and will be in the strictest of confidence.

If you consider you have what it takes to ensure best practice and a safe environment exists for all of our junior and youth team players then apply now with your CV to:

STUART BONSER – CLUB CHAIRMAN

info@ashbyivanhoefc.com

In the first instance please provide a short full summary of why you would be best suited to the role.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS 15th MARCH 2020

Ashby Ivanhoe Recruitment Head Plans To Help Young Players Move Up To Senior Team

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 17 Feb 2020 09:41:37 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe’s Head of Player Recruitment Gary Timms says he aims to create a ‘pathway to the senior team’ for the club’s young players.

Timms was appointed to oversee their progress so they can move seamlessly to first team football - as some have done already.

The plan is part of the long-term thinking to grow the Midlands League club in years to come - and take advantage of Ashby as an expanding town.

Timms has long-standing connections with both Ivanhoe chairman Stuart Bonser and first team manager Andy Gray - who used to be a rival opponent two decades ago, but are now working side by side to build the Lower Packington Road-based club.

And Timms told Ashby Nub News about Ivanhoe’s future plans - and how he came to be at the club.

“I moved to Moira three years ago and came down to watch a game of football, I saw Stuart and recognised him from Ibstock town when I was there.

“I hadn’t had anything to do with football for a little while, but I liked it down at Ashby, I liked what everybody was doing, it’s really positive and the people here are professional at what they do, they work hard and they love the football club.

“I met the youth team managers last month, but I was even looking for something that I didn’t like to stop me getting involved, if that makes sense!

“But the more I saw, the more I liked. And Stuart asked me to come and get involved.

“He wants to create a pathway for the youth team to come to senior football.

“That period where you go from youth to senior in any sport, the minute you start dealing with seniors, it becomes a difficult place, probably the toughest time of your life.

“But we want to make it easy to get these players incorporated into the senior section.

“We want to create an environment from the beginning of youth team football where these lads can be the best they want to be, and that’s like a mini slogan.

“It’s creating an environment where they want to eventually play for Ashby Ivanhoe seniors.

“And when they come and get involved, it’s as easy for them to step up. That’s what I’m trying to do.”

Timms says there is plenty to build on at the club because of the progress that has been made already.

I’ve met the youth team coaches, it’s in its infancy, but we’ve got things planned like a master classes. We can get these things set up where we invite five or six people down to work with the players, and we already have identified players who are 16 or 17, three of them are 16 and they’ve played in the first team already, they all come from the youth section,” he added.

“If we put our minds to it then more can do that.”

Timms has a background in Leicestershire football with Ibstock, Stony Stanton and Huncote and knows his role is very different from when he was a player.

“I’ve been around football a long time, but players are a bit selfish, you never seem to look around at what is happening,” he said.

“Further up you go the harder it gets. What made it for me with that Andy Gray was appointed as manager.

“But the funny thing is when are used to play against Andy, we used to hate each other, Because I was from Stanton and he was from Shilton, we used to kick bits out of each other. We didn’t like each other at all.

“But now I’m fully supportive of him, and I love what he doing, I think we’ve got a really good manager. But he said to me you wouldn’t of thought this 20 years ago,, Because I was from Stanton and he was from Eatl Shilton, we used to kick bits out of each other. We didn’t like each other at all!

“But now I’m fully supportive of him, and I love what he does, I think we’ve got a really good manager.

“He said to me: “You wouldn’t have thought this 20-odd years ago”.

“We never really got to know each other because of the rivalry, they never came in our pub, we never went in theirs.

“We had the wrong opinion of each other.

“When I met him here we had a chat, we got on well and now I love it down here.”

Timms says the club can get bigger along with the size of the town - which means potentially getting more people through the gates on matchday.

“When you look at the town of Ashby, I think it’s something we can really turn on,” he added.

“For example, there’s two guys I play golf with, one is John Owen who was a successful manager of Tiverton Town and took them to Wembley in the FA vase, but he lives in Ashby.

“He said he’d never been down to Ivanhoe, in all the years he lived here, he didn’t even know the club was here. He came down here and he loved it.

“I spoke to another bloke and he just said he thought there was nothing but a shed and a load of sheep down here, but he hadn’t been there for 10 years.

“So how many more people don’t know what’s down here? There’s a decent standard of football and if another 30 or 40 people come along, that’s a start.”

Ashby Ivanhoe Pay The Penalty In Narrow Cadbury Defeat

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 10 Feb 2020 23:07:31 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe went down narrowly at Cadbury Athletic in their Midland League Division One clash on Saturday after missing a late penalty.

After a cagey opening, it was the home side who took the lead after 38 minutes when they made the most of the windy conditions at a free-kick.

The ball seemed to catch the wind and the Ashby goalkeeper by surprise as it popped into the top corner direct from the setpiece.

The first half did not end well for Ivanhoe with Ashby captain, Macauley Holmes shown a yellow card for a late challenge just before the break.

Ashby made the brighter start in the second half, and within five minutes they came close to equalising with a shot from Lewis Poynton which deflected wide for a corner.

A further opportunity was created 20 minutes into the second half by Liam Donaghy who found Sam Grouse but he could not convert as his shot went narrowly wide.

A further chance two minutes later saw Grouse in a clear goal scoring opportunity, but he blazed the ball over the bar.

Ashby continued to be the better side as the half progressed and were creating further chances through Ross McGarry and Holmes.

Cadbury came close to a second after 40 minute]s but a great tackle by Holmes denied him he chance.

A great strike from Jack Robinson saw the ball bounce just in front of the Cadbury keeper who tipped it wide for a corner.

But, with 90 minutes on the clock, Ashby were awarded a penalty after grouse was brought down - but after taking the penalty himself, he put the ball over the bar.

After capitalising on possession in the second half, Ashby could not find the equaliser and the points went to Cadbury - but with notable performances from Harry Stewart and Robinson.

• Next up for Ashby was to have been an away trip to Hinckley FC on Tuesday night in the League Cup - but that has now been called off due to storm damage to a floodlight pylon.

Ashby Ivanhoe FC Visitors Do a Ewe-Turn On Pitch

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 27 Jan 2020 21:32:19 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe FC had some unusual visitors to their NFU ground on Monday morning - a herd of sheep!

The Midland League team posted a video of the animals roaming the pitch at their Lower Packington Road headquarters.

Some of them showed a useful turn of pace - but they are likely to be baaaaa-ed on match days.

The club posted a message on Twitter: “Just another day in the life of a non-league football club as we had some early morning visitors at the NFU!”

A club spokesman said the sheep had invaded the pitch from a next door field.

To see the sheep in action, click the play button below (Video: Ashby Ivanhoe FC) or click on the red Additional Info button.

Kids Christmas Party & Raffle

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Fri, 13 Dec 2019 14:42:50 GMT

It's that time of year again and we have decided to organise a Christmas Party at the Club for the asunder 10’s and Under!

£5 (includes food)

Only 45 available!

22nd December

2pm-5pm

Lots of fun and games and include a present and visit from Father Christmas!

We will be decorating the clubhouse, if anyone has any decorations they aren't using this year and are happy to donate please could you drop them at the club over the coming weeks for us to use.

There will be an adult and child prize for the best Christmas Jumper on the night as well.

RAFFLE

Tickets still available for collection from the NFU!

The tickets are £1 each and come in books of 5.

Once you have sold some, please return the stubs and monies to the club.

Prizes to be drawn at the Christmas Party!

This is an exciting time of year, the more people that can get involved and support the club the better it will be!

Under 15 players required

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 01 Aug 2019 00:35:16 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe FC are looking for players for the Under 15s for the 2019/2020 season. If you are interested or require any further information then please contact club chairman Stuart Bonser on 07807261975 or email info@ashbyivanhoefc.com

First Team to compete in Midland League Division One

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 01 Aug 2019 00:35:07 GMT

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The first team have been transferred from the East Midlands Counties League to the Total Motion Midland Football League Division One for the 2019/2020 season. The club would like to thank the East Midlands Counties League for the last few years of competing in the league but are excited to join the Midland League system and start a new chapter for the club.

Advertising, Sponsorship and Hospitality Season 2020

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 01 Aug 2019 00:34:57 GMT

We have a vast array of sponsorship opportunities / packages available to local/ national businesses and individuals!

Why get involved and support our club you may think?

Well there isn’t a better time to come on board and get involved with the club;

On Sunday, we have an adult ladies team kicking off their season for the 1st time ever (The NFU, 2pm KO!)
The Knights are playing at their highest level they ever have after promotion last year
The 1st team have had a promising start to the season in the MFL
We have a cracking youth set-up with teams ranging from u7s to u18s!
Our Saturday morning soccer school sessions seem to grow in size week on week which is fantastic!

These are just a few reasons why we are a club going forward in the right direction and it would be great to get your support!

If you are interested in supporting the club and discussing a sponsorship or commercial package then please get in touch.

Fishers Dewes Solicitors announce 3 year sponsorship deal with Ashby Ivanhoe FC

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Fishers Dewes Solicitors, of Ashby de la Zouch and Tamworth, have announced a three year sponsorship agreement with Ashby Ivanhoe FC to become their main club and first team kit sponsor.

Ashby Ivanhoe, whose first team play in the East Midlands Counties League, currently have over 265 registered players through all age groups including Junior, Academy, and Senior levels.

Club chairman, Stuart Bonser said “We are delighted that Fishers Dewes have agreed to become our club sponsor. I know our supporters will be pleased to have such a long established firm of the town associated with our club.”

Fishers Dewes Ashby office, based on Kilwardby Street, currently employs over 40 staff providing legal support for individuals and businesses in areas including Conveyancing, Family, Employment, Wills & Probate, and Corporate services.

Amanda Payne, Director and Head of Property at Fishers Dewes said “We’ve supported Ashby Ivanhoe for many years, seeing the club go from strength to strength. We share the same values in supporting the local community and are looking forward to working together over the coming years”.

The Ashby Ivanhoe senior team, who play at their home matches at the NFU Sports Ground, will for the first time in the clubs history compete in the FA Cup this season.

Stuart added “The club is very ambitious and we have plans to continue to expand both on and off the pitch. Having the support of local companies like Fishers Dewes is vital in helping to keep the club moving forward.”

For further information regarding any of the services offered by Fishers Dewes Solicitors, please visit www.fishers-dewes.co.uk.

End Of An Era - Final First Team Match At Hood Park

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 23:00:00 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe 5-2 Dunton & Broughton Rangers

Leicestershire Senior League Premier Division

Tuesday 17th April 2012

Ashby Ivanhoe ended an era at their Hood Park home with a comfortable 5-2 victory over Dunton & Broughton Rangers with Phil Gibson and Dan Stevenson getting two apiece with George Carline adding the other.

From the beginning of next season Ashby will move into their new home at the NFU Sports Ground on Lower Packington Road so with this being the last first team match at Hood Park, their home since 1948, they wanted to finish off in style and the match started well as with just eight minutes on the clock they opened the scoring when a long ball forward found Sam Kirk on the right and his cross into the area found Gibson but when the ball was cleared Kirk attempted another cross which again found Gibson and this time is downward header was finished off by George Carline.

Ashby were creating the most chances during the first half and after Kirk went close to a second Ivanhoe goal the visitors, against the run of play, levelled the scores when a player took advantage of the space down the left before sending a cross into the area and after the initial shot was saved by John Noon the loose ball was forced home to make it 1-1.

Two minutes before half time and Ashby should have been back in front when Carline received the ball before going past a couple of defenders but his shot towards the far corner went narrowly wide.

Then on the stroke of half time Ashby were again denied a second goal this time by the woodwork when a cross into the area was headed towards goal by Chris Nettel but despite beating the keeper it thundered against the crossbar after taking a deflection which resulted in a corner which was swung into the area by Evan Cawley and Phil Gibson headed home to give Ashby a 2-1 half time lead.

After the break Ashby pushed on looking for a third goal and inside the first ten minutes of the half they had a couple of chances when Dan Stevenson headed over before a long range free kick from Jamie Yeomans went narrowly over the top but on 57 minutes Ashby did extend their lead when a cross into the area found Stevenson on the edge of the six yard box and with his back to goal he turned before slotting the ball into the bottom corner to make it 3-1.

Midway through the half Dunton and Broughton had a chance to pull a goal back when a long ball forward found a player just outside the area and his shot forced a good save by Noon to keep the two goal lead intact.

On 70 minutes Ashby scored a fourth goal and what a goal it was as Stevenson added his second. It started when a ball forward found him on the edge of the area and just like his other goal he had his back to goal before turning to his right and when the space opened up between two defenders he turned back to goal which left him with just the keeper to beat and he placed his shot just inside the near post for 4-1.

Ashby added a fifth goal in the 77th minute when substitute Elliott Bott was brought down inside the area resulting in a penalty and upstepped leading scorer Phil Gibson who sent the keeper the wrong way with a powerfully struck kick for his 42nd goal of the season.

With two minutes remaining the visitors pulled a goal back with a well taken goal when a cross into the area found the player at the near post and he struck a first time volley past Noon at the near post to make it 5-2 but Ashby had already done enough to ensure a third straight league win and a final win at Hood Park.

Coalville Charity Cup Winners 2010/2011

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Sun, 01 May 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Bardon Hill 2-3 Ashby Ivanhoe

Coalville Charity Cup Final

Monday 2nd May 2011

Ashby Ivanhoe clinched the Coalville Charity Cup Final after a thrilling second half performance saw them overturn a 2-0 halftime deficit to defeat Bardon Hill 3-2 and end a superb season on a high by completing a league and cup double.

It was the current holders Bardon who made the better start to the match and although both teams had an early chance at goal when Bardon fired over and Ashby saw a Chris Nettel shot saved it was Bardon who took the lead in the eighth minute when a ball into the area was only half cleared and the loose ball was played out to the right and a low cross into the area was turned in from close range.

The chances kept on coming for Bardon and they had a chance to score a second in the tenth minute when another cross the right caused problems but the shot was well saved by John Noon but just a minute later Bardon did double their advantage when a long ball forward saw the striker behind the Ivanhoe defence and despite Noon getting a hand to the shot the ball found the net for 2-0.

Ashby needed a quick response and they did have a chance to pull a goal back almost immediately but after Bryan Barker had ran down the right his cross into the area was headed goalwards by Ben Pollard but the keeper made a comfortable save.

Bardon should have increased their lead further just before the half hour mark when a good ball forward saw the striker in on goal but after being put under pressure from the defence his shot was narrowly wide of goal.

On the stroke of half time and with Ashby restricting the opposition chances they nearly pulled a goal back when they were awarded a free kick 25 yards from goal and Steve Hart struck a powerful left footed which wasn’t too far away leaving them trailing 2-0 at the break.

The second half though was nothing short of sensational from Ashby and from the first whistle they were determined to turn the match around and they couldn’t have hoped for a better start when just two minutes in they halved the deficit when Hart swung in a corner from the right and with Bardon unable to defend the ball in it was Mark Muir who tapped in from close range for 2-1.

Ashby were now getting on top and they were creating more and more chances as they went in search of an equaliser and in the 55th minute a long ball forward from Jon Smith was brought down by Phil Gibson and after creating space for the shot the keeper got down to make the save and on the hour mark the keeper was again called into action when Hart worked the ball into the area before cutting the ball back to Pollard who saw his shot saved.

Ashby have pulled out many a great result when needed this season and as the match entered the final 15 minutes they needed something special and in the 78th minute they levelled the match when a cross from the right was over hit and with the chance looking to have gone Hart collected the ball on the left of the area before sending a low ball across goal and Pollard was there to force it home for 2-2.

The momentum was very much in Ashby’s favour and they sensed that the match was there for the taking and Pollard went close to a second goal in the 80th minute when he chased down a ball over the top but the Bardon keeper kept his side on level terms by producing a superb save.

The decisive moment of the match came with eight minutes remaining and Bardon were left stunned when a corner from Muir on the left was played into the six yard box and Chris Nettel, whose two goals secured the Senior League title last week, directed his header over the keeper and into the net to complete a remarkable turnaround and spark celebrations from the large Ivanhoe support.

Although Bardon pushed forward in the latter stages Ashby remained strong and led by man of the match Greg Smith in defence they were equal to anything that Bardon threw at them and after the best 45 minute performance of the season they were deservedly winners of the Coalville Charity Cup for the first time.

Ashby Ivanhoe Fc Season Review - 2010/2011

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 23:00:00 GMT

The 2010/2011 season was one of the most successful in Ashby Ivanhoe’s history as they won the Leicestershire Senior League and Coalville Charity Cup for the very first time.

The league campaign began on August 21st at Stapenhill and after taking a 2-0 lead into the break it was the home side who recovered in the second half to claim a point before the first home game of the season brought the first defeat as Blaby & Whetstone recorded a comfortable 4-1 victory. Bank Holiday Monday saw the first round of the league cup and Asfordby Amateurs, after going 4-0 down inside seven minutes, were crushed 8-0.

Attentions then turned to the FA Vase and an away trip to Dudley Sports and after an entertaining game Ashby returned home with a place in the next round after a 4-3 victory. Two weeks later and the brief cup run came to an end at Wednesfield who led 4-0 at the break before ending 5-1 winners.

In between the two cup matches Ashby began their move up the table as three matches in quick succession brought three wins on the bounce. FC Dynamo, who would end up as Ashby’s nearest challenges, were beaten 4-3 before two comfortable wins over Cottesmore and Kirby Muxloe saw Ashby into seventh place. On the back of the Wednesfield match a trip to current champions Thurmaston Town followed and it saw Ashby suffer their heaviest league defeat of the season 7-2 before a 3-2 home victory over Birstall United saw Ashby end the month in sixth.

October saw Ashby really kick on as they played four league matches and came away with maximum points which lifted them to third place. Aylestone Park were no match for Ashby and they left empty handed after a 6-1 defeat before an away trip at Highfield saw Ashby struggle before two second half goals secured victory. One of the best results of the season came in an away victory at Lutterworth Athletic 4-2 before struggling Ratby Sports were beaten 5-1. In between the league matches Ashby progressed to the semi finals of the Coalville Charity Cup after beating East Midlands Counties side Ibstock United 2-1 on their own patch.

Despite losing 3-0 at Lutterworth in the second round of the league cup Ashby continued their impressive league form and they would end November top of the table as a 4-3 victory at Sileby Town was followed up with another great result when Stapenhill were well beaten 3-0. That was the last action of the year as the arctic conditions left all matches postponed until the new year.

2011 began with a trip to Aylestone Park where another three points were secured with a 4-2 victory before Ashby had to come from behind to claim a point at Birstall United. After another postponement Ashby returned to winning ways at home to Saffron Dynamo with a 3-1 victory but despite not losing during the month Ashby had dropped to third due to the lack of matches.

February was a crucial month in the season as Ashby were due to play the top two but before that Sileby Town were beaten 4-3 for the second time. Ashby then faced a trip to FC Dynamo but despite scoring an early goal a poor second half performance saw the home side run out 4-2 winners. The top of the table clash, at home to Rothley, was postponed but Ashby still ended the month on top by a point after beating Highfield Rangers 6-2.

March began with a top of the table clash as this time Ashby travelled to Rothley in a rollercoaster of a match. Ashby took the lead early on before the game came to life in the last twenty minutes with Ashby snatching the three points with a 95th minute winner. Away games at the bottom two brought another six points before another tough match saw Thurmaston at Hood Park and Ashby came from behind to win 2-1. The final match of the month saw Ashby reach the Coalville Charity Cup final after Sileby Saints were beaten 4-1.

The final month of the season started with a trip to Kirby Muxloe and after falling behind Ashby came back to record a 3-1 victory before they lost by the same scoreline at Blaby. Ashby then faced two tough home matches but Lutterworth Athletic were blown away in the opening fifteen minutes as Ashby again won 3-1 but the following week saw Ashby struggle against Rothley who left with the three points after a 2-1 win. That left Ashby needing two victories from their remaining three matches and the Easter weekend saw two struggling sides visit Hood Park. Firstly relegated Asfordby Amateurs were thrashed 15-1 with ten goals scored in the second half and three players getting hat-tricks before the title was secured on Easter Monday with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Cottesmore.

Ashby completed the league campaign with a 5-1 victory over Saffron Dynamo where the league trophy was presented before kick-off and then on Bank Holiday Monday the double was secured as Ashby bounced back from going 2-0 down inside 11 minutes to defeat Bardon Hill with a superb second half display to win 3-2 and lift the Coalville Charity Cup.

Senior League Champions 2010/2011

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Ashby Ivanhoe 2-0 Cottesmore Amateurs

Leicestershire Senior League Premier Division

Monday 25th April 2011

Ashby Ivanhoe clinched the Leicestershire Senior League title as two goals from midfielder Chris Nettel secured a 2-0 victory against lowly Cottesmore Amateurs.

It has been a great season for Ashby and for manager Kev Allsop and his backroom team and the championship is fully deserved. After leading the reserves to the league title last season Kev stepped up to take charge of the first team last summer and has since assembled a great squad of players which were determined from the opening day to win the title.

The whole squad also deserves praise for many great performances throughout the season and every player who has pulled on the Ivanhoe shirt has made an important contribution and the goals scored by Phil Gibson and Steve Hart have also been crucial and has kept Ashby in front of the chasing pack and goalkeeper John Noon has produced many a good save to help secure important victories.

This season has also seen Ashby secure their first ever FA Vase victory with the 4-3 win at Dudley Sports back in September and although they didn’t progress any further in the competition they can still make this a league and cup double when they face Bardon Hill in the Coalville Charity Cup final on Bank Holiday Monday.

Heading into this match Ashby knew that after handing out a 15-1 thrashing to Asfordby on Saturday that just a single point would be good enough to secure the title and they started this match on the front foot and almost took the lead inside the first minute when they forced an early corner and the ball found Mitch Poulton at the back of the area and his volley headed goalwards and found Hart who saw his effort cleared off the line.

Ashby were looking dangerous from corners and it was from a set-piece that they opened the scoring in the 12th minute when Hart’s corner was swung into the area and Chris Nettel jumped above the defence to power a header beyond the keeper.

Four minutes later and Cottesmore were nearly back on level terms when a ball forward found the striker behind the Ivanhoe defence and left him with just Noon to beat but he produced another fine save to keep Ashby in front.

Despite that chance for the visitors Ashby were still the better side and midway through the half they were denied a second goal when a cross from deep by Luke Thorogood found Mark Muir at the back post but his header produced a point-blank save from the opposition keeper.

Ashby continued to look for the second goal throughout the remainder of the first half and with just a couple of minutes before the break they were unlucky when from another corner the ball found Greg Smith inside the area and his effort was also cleared off the line to keep the score at 1-0.

At the start of the second half it was the visitors who started the quickest and they went close on three occasions inside the opening 15 minutes of the half when firstly a cross into the area found the player but his glancing header was wide of the far post and then a couple of minutes later a shot was also wide before another shot forced Noon into another save by tipping a powerful shot over.

Ashby then started to get back on top and just after the hour mark top-scorer Hart tried a speculative effort from the edge of the area when the ball had found its way over the defence but the shot was narrowly over the bar.

Then midway through the second half Ashby scored the all important second goal which gave them the breathing space and it was another superb goal when from 30 yards the ball fell to Nettel and he unleashed an unstoppable drive which flew past the keeper and into the roof of the net and after playing out the final twenty minutes comfortably the final whistle was met with a rapturous applause from the large crowd and the title celebrations could finally get underway and Ashby will now look forward to their final game of the season against Saffron Dynamo on Saturday where afterwards they will be presented with the league trophy.

Reserves Division Two Champions 2009/2010

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Fri, 14 May 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Narborough & Littlethorpe Res 1-3 Ashby Ivanhoe Res

Leicestershire Combination Division Two

Saturday 15th May 2010

Ashby Ivanhoe Reserves clinched the Leicestershire Combination Division Two title after a tense final day victory over Narborough & Littlethorpe Reserves saw them pip Thurnby Nirvana Reserves to top spot and the championship trophy.

Ashby started the day knowing that only a win would give them the title after Thurnby had won their final match in midweek and they got off to a good start and the first chance came in the sixth minute when a cross deep into the area from Jamie Yeomans found Ben Earp at the back post but his first time shot was narrowly wide of goal.

Ashby went close again in the 14th minute when Phil Gibson won the ball on halfway before sending a pass down the line to Earp who then crossed the ball into the area and when the ball fell to Chris Nettel at the far post his shot was over.

Just a minute later and Ashby were let off the hook as

Narborough thought that they had taken a shock lead but as the striker was firing a low shot past John Noon the referee had blew for an earlier foul and the match remained goalless.

Ashby then started to create more chances as they went in search of a goal and on 17 minutes they had the best chance of the match when the ball fell to Earp and his shot was tipped wide by the keeper.

With the pressure mounting on the home defence it was only a matter of time before Ashby took one of their chances and two minutes later they took the lead when Earp was in on goal and when the shot came it struck the keeper’s legs before hitting the inside of the post and with the ball coming back into the six yard box it was Kieran Noctor who reached the ball first to fire home the opening goal.

Although under no real pressure from the home side Ashby started to struggle after the goal and they were misplacing passes and wasting any chances that were created but with seven minutes of the half remaining they nearly doubled their advantage thanks to the Narborough defender as when a free kick deep inside Ashby’s half was played forward the defender headed the ball backwards towards his own keeper who at full stretch had to react quick to tip the ball round the post.

As the match approached half time Ashby started to create more chances and in quick succession Earp and Nettel went close before a shot from Gibson was tipped round the post by the keeper to keep the score at 1-0 at the break.

The second half began well for Ashby as they looked to increase their lead and in the 49th minute they went close when Earp brought the ball forward before playing a low ball through to Gibson but after rounding the keeper the shot from a tight angle was cleared for a corner by the last defender.

Ashby then fell back into their poor play from the first half as they again failed to capitalise on chances and with possession being lost cheaply it was Narborough who started to create goal scoring opportunities but two chances from free kicks failed to trouble Noon as a shot went wide and a header over.

Midway through the second half Ashby found the second goal that gave them breathing space when Noctor crossed in and with Narborough unable to deal with the cross Gibson nodded in past the keeper for 2-0 and surely now the title was heading to Ashby.

Narborough had other ideas though and within a minute of the restart it was back to square one for Ashby as the home side found the back of the net as a shot from range went under keeper Noon to make it 2-1 and the tension mounted once more.

Knowing that another goal for the home side would knock Ashby back down to second they started to look at opening up the two goal advantage again and in the 73rd minute they scored a third goal when another cross found Gibson and after his shot across goal was saved by the keeper the loose ball fell to Michael Beck who applied the finish for 3-1.

In the closing ten minutes Ashby had two good chances to put the result beyond doubt when firstly Chris Nettel tested the keeper after a ball into the box was cleared to the edge of the area and his shot was tipped over by the keeper and then with just a minute left the ball was in the corner with Earp who managed to beat the defender before bursting into the area but the keeper was equal to the shot and then just a couple of minutes later the referee blew the final whistle to start the title-winning celebrations.