TIGERS

OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME | 3

Howard Cup Final 2016
U18 vs. U17A
SUN 1 MAY 2016
KO 3:00PM

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 1

South Bucks Youth League

Affiliated to the Berks & Bucks FA

Founded 1992
Chairman
John Horton
Vice Chairman
Trevor Saunders
Secretary
Trevor Saunders
Treasurer
Naj Alikhan
Registration Secretary
Anna Nowakowska
Referee Secretary
John Horton
Fixture Secretary
Chris Green
Life President
Ken Turnbull
Vice Presidents
Tom Buckle, Alan Manley
Doug Hook, Ron Rolfe
Jim Broadribb, Jeff Jaffrey
John Radford, Colin Robinson
Muriel Turnbull
Sponsors
Enterprise Trophies
Follow action from todays game
on our Twitter. Therell be post
match reaction on YouTube, and a
match report on
www.wycombetigers.co.uk
@WYCOMBETIGERS
/WYCOMBETIGERS
@WYCOMBETIGERS
2 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

INSIDE

10
22
6 Chairmans Chat
32 Tigers beat Academy
36 U17B Jets
38 Our first final
Editor
Ed Henderson
Programme Design
James Cox and Emily Stacey

SETTING THE SCENE

Wycombe Tigers set for first ever
silverware as Under-18s and Under-17As meet in South Bucks
Youth League Cup Final.
Wycombe Tigers will win their first
ever piece of silverware since their
formation in 2011 when their Under-18 and Under-17A teams go
head-to-head in the South Bucks
Youth League Cup Final.
The final on Sunday, 1 May will be
played at Tring Athletic FC and
club chairman Ed Henderson is
hoping for a large crowd to witness
history being made.
Henderson said: Its going to be a
fantastic occasion, and one we are
all looking forward to.

The Tigers Under-18s are managed by former players Elliott Scott

and Callum Wetherall while Gus
Burton and Dan Blackwell take
charge of the Under-17s.
The club have had 168 players
turn out in the Tigers colours
since their debut season, and have
received praise from Barnet who
approached them for a friendly
with their academy side.
Lee Sims
Bucks Free Press

#OptaTiger:

Tigers have won 66% of

games played this season.
Winning.

Winning silverware is a great

achievement regardless of the
level of football, and to have two
of our teams in the same final is
something Im extremely proud
of.
TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 3

Firstly I would like to congratulate the eight SBYL teams whove

made it through to our four cup
finals this year. When I first joined
the league management committee, we only had two cup competitions, so its pleasing to see how
our league has progressed providing competition and incentives to
all of our teams, including those in
the lower divisions.
The 2015-2016 season saw us
introduce a new under 21s Development League. This provides
a middle platform for those progressing from youth team football
into mens football. This can be
quite a large step for some players, with many dropping out from
playing regular football between
the ages of 18-21. I congratulate
those teams whove already taken
the plunge and sincerely hope that
we will grow the number of teams
participating in the years to come.

4 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

We have been able to maintain 5

divisions in our youth league this
season with over 50 teams participating. We continue to attract
teams from other neighbouring
counties, which is hopefully testament to our good reputation
for having a well-run league. We
fully support the FAs Respect
Campaign and we encourage all
players, coaches and spectators to
enjoy football with respect for each
other.
Please enjoy todays cup final and
show your support for both teams.
In closing, I would like to thank my
colleagues Anna, Chris, Naj and
Trevor for all their hard work behind the scenes to provide Sunday
football for all our teams. We look
forward to welcoming your club
back next season.
John Horton
Chairman & Referees Secretary

Wycombe Tigers Youth FC

were founded in 2011 by three
school friends: Ed Henderson,
Will Rygalski and Alex Ford. The
club has gone from strength-tostrength over the years, with three
U18 teams currently competing
in the South Bucks Youth League.
The aim is very much to continue
growing the club, and provide the
best environment for local players
to enjoy their football in.

involved at the club are extremely

proud of.

There were never concrete ambitions to continue past our

first-season, but in typical Tigers
fashion, everything just seemed to
come together nicely!

168 players have played for the

club in total over the past five seasons, and still keep a keen interest
in the club. We believe we are a
club on the up, and today is just
part of that journey.

A football-foundation grant in the

summer has enabled the club to
expand over the past season, and
the aim is now to crack on with
the younger age groups. Ed still
has a key-role at the club, and the
guarantee of Tigers first piece of
silverware today is an occasion all

Social media has undoubtedly

been Tigers forte over the years.
Just over 800 Twitter followers
enjoy updates from matches each
week-end. A key component to
the DNA of the club, it has played
a huge part in promoting Tigers.
Over 2,000 people view photos
from our matches each weekend!

This club demonstrates the ability of young people in the area,

with many of our former-players
coaching our teams during their
gap-years.

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 5

ED HENDERSON
CHAIRMANS CHAT

Good afternoon and welcome to

todays cup final. What an occasion we have in store!

Ive got a lot of time for the lads.

They are a great advert for this
football club.

We are approaching five years as

a club, and we have gone from
strength-to-strength every year. I
never thought wed continue past
our first season, but Im so pleased
we did!

Dan and Gus have done a fantastic job in Division 1, as well as

reaching the quarter finals of the
County-Cup.

To have two of our teams in the

main cup-final is an unbelievable
achievement. Im so proud of the
work the managers have put in this
season, as well as the players.
The best bit about this club is the
fantastic people we have here. All
the players have been quality this
season and they deserve it today.
6 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

Elliot and Callum have also done

exceptionally well, beating strong
teams to reach todays final.
Credit also to Josh Minett who
took on our new U17B side at the
start of the season.
Id also like to thank the South
Bucks Youth League for all their
hard work over the season. Their
work often goes unnoticed, but it is

a very well run league, and one we

have thoroughly enjoyed participating in for the last five years.
I have no idea who will win todays game, but what I do know
is that the players will perform to
their best abilityas they do each
weekand that we are in for a
great game of football.
Congratulations also to todays
match officials, you too have had a
great season. Well done on getting
todays appointment - I hope the
game goes well for you.
We say goodbye today to those
who play their last game for the
club . I wish you well at university
and beyond, thanks for the memories over the past two seasons.
Winning silverware is an amazing reward, its been five years of
worth-while graft, but this is just
the start.
Enjoy today and thanks for your
support!
Ed Henderson
Chairman
@edh94

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 7

PAST WINNERS
The Howard Youth Cup was donated by Flackwell Heath FC in 1992, in
memory of Mr Harold Howard - who was a keen follower, and supporter of
local junior and youth football.
Year
Winner
Runner Up
1992/93
Chiltern Athletic
Penn & Tylers Green
1993/94
Chalfont Saints
Chiltern Athletic
1994/95
Bedgrove
Wellesbourne
1995/96
Wellesbourne
Chalfont Saints
1996/97
Holmer Green
Hazlemere
1997/98
Amersham Town
Hazlemere
1998/99
Penn & Tylers Green Burnham Jaguars
1999/00
Hithercroft
Chiltern Athletic
2000/01
Chiltern Athletic
Holmer Green Colts
2001/02
Holmer Green Youth Cookham Dean
2002/03
Beacons Bottom
Burnham Wildcats
2003/04
Burnham Wildcats Chalfont Wasps
2004/05
Aylesbury United
Totteridge
2005/06
Holmer Green
Bedgrove Dynamos
2006/07
Bedgrove Dynamos Aylesbury Town
2007/08
Risborough Rangers Chalfont Saints
2008/09
Penn & Tylers Green Aylesbury Town
2009/10
Penn & Tylers Green Widmer End United
2010/11
Chalfont St Peter
Berkhamsted Raiders
2011/12
Wexham United
Bourne End
2012/13
Chalfont Saints
Wendover Juniors
2013/14
Aylesbury United
Chalfont Saints
2014/15
Signcraft Rangers
Taplow Boys Youth

8 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

MEET THE
TEAMS
TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 9

U18
Recent Form: W L W W W W
The U18s have enjoyed a successful season in Division 2 of the SBYL. Wins
over Division 1 sides Prestwood and Risborough Rangers were successfully
negotiated on the way to todays League Cup Final.
Manager: Elliot Scott: A real club-man. The former-player turned vocal manager is in

his second year with the team. He knows his players very well. He has worked wonders this
season, master minding his team to their first cup-final. Expect him to be wearing shorts
come rain or shine! An avid Sunderland fan, Scott is hoping the season ends on a high with
a League-Cup win with Tigers, and survival from relegation for the Black Cats.
Coach: Callum Wetherall: Great commitment to the club, the coach has played a
crucial part in the run to the final. Someone you can rely on, especially when it comes to
looking after match balls and corner flags!

#1 Rory Stamp Goalkeeper A great shot-stopper who has improved drastically

over his past two seasons with Tigers. Has only missed a few games over the years.

#2 Tom Bowyer Defender A tenacious full-back who gets stuck in. He does not
shy out of a challenge, watch out for his long throws! Definitely a key-player at the back.

#3 Josh Westerling Defender Very reliable defender who can play anywhere

along the back line. Josh has been at the club for two seasons. A West-Ham fan and keen
on politics, Josh has been a great person to have at the club.

#4 Chris Kaye Defender A solid central defender who has saved Tigers on countless occasions week in week out. Uses his reading of the game to his advantage and is a
very good header of the ball, all be it with a unique technique.

#5 Tom Devoy Defender A quick left-back who uses his fitness to get up and
down the flank very well. His assist in the quarter-finals a crucial moment in the run to
todays final.
10 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

#6 Aidan Vaughan Defender A key addition to the squad this year. He has gelled
very well with partner Kaye. The partnership helped keep out two of the Division 1 top scorers. Vaughan has a few goals to his name this year and likes to get forward when he can.

#9 Opone Adoh Striker A powerhouse up top, who has helped lead the line for
two years with Tigers. Not many will knock him off the ball, a key factor to not just his
goal-tally but also his part in setting up his goal-scoring partners.

#10 Toby Lawrence (c) Midfielder The talisman of this team. The top-scorer

and skipper has not missed a Tigers game in two years. Always puts in 110% when playing.
Todays final will be his 50th appearance for the club in two seasons: a legend.

#11 Matt Goss Striker A technically gifted footballer who is another key com-

ponent to this team. Goss scored two goals in the semi-final, ensuring Tigers recorded a
memorable 5-0 win over Risborough Rangers. One to keep an eye on.

#15 Stan Timms Midfielder Stanley was a huge addition in midfield this year, a

complete footballer with a physical presence, technical ability and the work ethic to match.
Stan has been a key asset in getting the side here today.

#16 Rohan Bhardwaj Midfielder Rohan has been with this side since day one,
and unlike his beloved Villa he is more than capable of doing his job in any position.

#17 Callum Rennie Midfielder A real character and key member of the dressing
room. When he manages to keep himself on the pitch he shows how good he has been for
this side. Has chipped in with a fair share of goals and assists too.

#20 Dom Mason Midfielder Doms work ethic is second to none, and the partnership he has formed with Lane has been key. Bar a miracle today, Dom also scored the
goal of the season away to Berkhamsted earlier in the year.

#21 Dan Statham Midfielder Another key recruit to the side this year, Dan has

used his Rugby background to his advantage, a real physical presence in this side. A player
that you will do well to see lose a 50/50 challenge.

#23 Seb Lane Midfielder It has been said that no one has ever seen Seb stand

still. Only two less caps than the skipper. The first name on the team sheet. A motor in
midfield that never stops. Has an absolute cannon of a right-foot that often finds the net
from range.

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 11

ELLIOT SCOTT
MANAGERS COLUMN

Afternoon all,
Firstly I would like to start by mentioning Ed, and thank him for the
job he has done for all Tigers sides,
not just this year but since 2011.
He does a lot of work behind the
scenes, putting in multiple hours,
allowing the boys to go out and enjoy themselves on Sunday mornings. It would be no exaggeration
to say without Eds work Tigers
would not be where we are today.
It is just a real shame he couldnt
get to a few more of our games this
year, but hey when the U17As are
playing
My assistant Callum and I, would
like to thank you all for showing
your support this afternoon. My
12 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

thanks should also be extended

to the loyal few that have turned
up to support come rain or shine
this season, you know who you are
but, to name a few: Maia the dog
and in particular, Mr Colin Lawrence who misses one of only a few
games this afternoon, and who I
know would have loved to be here.
This season has been very similar
to the last. We have a group of
boys with a huge amount of talent that struggle with availability,
meaning we havent been able to
achieve what we know we were capable of this season, especially in
the league. I think the boys would
also agree with me on that.

However, I couldnt have higher

praise for the lads in getting to
this final. We have played two of
the strongest sides in Division 1,
applied ourselves, both physically
and mentally, and shown how good
a side we can be. We have found
a shape that fits our personnel
perfectly, and a style of play that
draws on our strengths. The team
doesnt rely on two or three players, we have talent across the side,
that we know will beat most sides
we come across. Our opposition
today, going on league position,
will be one of the best we have
faced over the two years, thats
something the boys are well aware
of. I will prepare no differently as I
did for the quarter final and semis,
doing all I can to give the boys the
best shot at silverware. I dont wish
the opposition any luck, and hope
we win even if we arent the better
team.
This is the last game the boys will
play together which makes me look
back over the last two years. It, for
the majority of times, has been a
real pleasure working with a group
of genuine nice guys. I like to think
I have developed a good relationship with all the boys, one where
we can joke around, and have a
laugh, as well as knuckle down and
take things seriously when needed,
and maybe even improved their

games. It would be fitting, and

deserved, if we can go out and play
to our full potential this afternoon.
That is all I can wish for.
Elliot Scott
U18 Manager
@ElliotScott73

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 13

TOBY LAWERENCE
U18 captain Toby Lawrence has played every game
since joining Tigers, making his 50th consecutive appearance today!
I can safely say on behalf of the
whole team that over the last two
years we have thoroughly enjoyed
ourselves when playing for Tigers;
the mix of good quality football
and playing with your mates is as
good as it gets.
We started the season well with
the new additions to the squad,
and there were high hopes for the
season ahead. However, as we did
last season, we dropped points in
games we should not have, and lost
the chance to win the title.
As for this cup run, I can honestly
say that Ive never played with a
group of players who want to win so
much. The last two rounds weve
shown real character to beat two
higher ranked teams who thought
theyd walk over us.
Credit given to Elliot for making
us believe that we can win tough
games. As he said before the
quarter final against Prestwood
We have never over achieved and
reached our potential he went on
14 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

to say that this is our last chance

to prove ourselves and do something good as a team, and now
here we are in the final.
Its great for Tigers to have two
teams in the final, and guarantees
the clubs first silverware. But I
dont think that changes anything,
and both teams will be fully going
for it. Winning the cup would be
the best send off any of us could
have asked for, so were going to
put 100% into the game, and Id
like to think well come out on top.
Id like to give a massive shoutout to our chairman Ed, who has
organised everything behind the
scenes, and has been the heart
and soul of Tigers for the last five
years. Hes persevered through
the hard times and is now being
rewarded with days like this. All
the progress this club has made is
down to him, and he deserves all
the good things that come to him.

Credit given to Elliot for making us believe

that we can win tough games.

10

Toby Lawrence
U18 Captain

@tobylawrence_

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 15

STORY OF THE SEASON

U18
P 22 W13 D2 L7 AVERAGE GOALS FOR: 3.0 AVERAGE GOALS AGAINST: 2.1

It has been a great season for the U18s, who secured a top-four finish in
Division 2 following an entertaining 6-4 win over Martin Baker Youth on
Sunday (April 24).
The team, in their second season together, suffered from a lack of committment from several players over the course of the season, but Elliot Scott
and Callum Wetherall have done a fantastic job in securing the clubs third
highest finish to date.
A run to the League-Cup final is a fantastic achievement, defeating two of
the top-three Division 1 sides on their way to todays final. Will they beat a
third today?
Memorable wins include both quarter-final and semi-final wins over Prestwood and Risborough respectively, but also the comprehensive victories
over Berkhamsted, Chinnor and Aylesbury United in the league.

22 Toby Lawrence
21 Seb Lane
21 Rory Stamp

16 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

18 Toby Lawrence
10 Matt Goss
8 Opone Adoh

14 Toby Lawrence
3 Stanley Timms
3 Callum Rennie

ROUTE TO FINAL
Semi-Final
RISBOROUGH RANGERS 0-5 WYCOMBE TIGERS
Tigers beat the Division One runners-up in what was a sensational display
of attacking football. Tigers took an early lead through captain Lawrence,
before Matt Goss scored from the penalty spot, and Toby added another
before half-time.
The second-half continued in similar fashion to the first, as Tigers added a
further two goals through Goss and Callum Rennie to set-up an all-Tigers
final, and ensure the club wins its first piece of silverware!
Tigers XI: Rory Stamp; Tom Bowyer, Thomas Devoy, Aidan Vaughan, Chris
Kaye; Stanley Timms, Toby Lawrence (c), Seb Lane, Dominic Mason; Matt
Goss, Opone Adoh
Subs: Rohan Bhardwaj, Callum Rennie, Dan Statham, Josh Westerling

Quarter Final
WYCOMBE TIGERS 1-0 PRESTWOOD COLTS
4th Round
WYCOMBE TIGERS 6-1 ASTON CLINTON COLTS

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 17

CHRIS KAYE

How have you enjoyed your time at Tigers?

It's been a very enjoyable two years and we've done extremely well considering our manager's negative comments. We haven't taken every game seriously in the last two years, but we will today.
Is this final the perfect ending?
Yes, from now on every game is a cup final for us and I'm sure it'll be a great
advert for the game.
What are you expecting from todays game?
It's going to be a game of two halves and the team who scores more goals
will win the cup. Apart from that I don't really know what's going to happen.
How much would winning this cup mean?
The magic of the cup has been questioned in recent years but winning
means everything to us. We will set our stall out, give 110% and at the end
of the day, hopefully get the result.
@chriskaye_1
18 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

RORY STAMP
HES A
KEEPER
Its no secret that weve underperformed for two seasons now so this
is our last chance to really prove
ourselves.
I think everyone is expecting the
U17As to win, but that puts us at
an advantage. This is our last game
together and weve shown we can
beat teams of the same calibre
with our 5-0 win over Risborough.
Win or lose, this is the perfect end
to our season, we have beaten the
odds to get here, and in the end
Tigers are going to win silverware,
and thats really a win for us to be
able to payback the Chairman, Ed,
for all the hard work and time he
has put in to the club.
Id be lying if I said Id enjoyed
every minute of Tigers given my
record of scoring own goals, but
now that I can look back at those
moments and laugh about it is
what Ive loved about being a part
of the club, and Ill be sad to say
this is our last game together.
@rorystamp
TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 19

LAST TIME OUT

24.04.2016
MARTIN
BAKER

4-6

WYCOMBE
TIGERS

Under-18s win their final league game of the season, and final league-game
together. Tigers were 3-0 down inside 15 first-half minutes, but Matt Goss
got a goal back on 28 minutes. Martin Baker scored a fourth on 37 minutes,
before Callum Rennie responded instantly to put the score at 4-2 going
into half-time.
Tigers scored straight at the beginning of the second-half as Rennie headed
home. And Tigers were level on 56 minutes as Rennie curled in for his hattrick.Tigers took the lead for the first time in the game on 72 minutes via an
own-goal, before Toby Lawrence scored Tigers sixth to record a sensational
comeback.
Full report avaliable at www.wycombetigers.co.uk.
Tigers XI: Rory Stamp; Rohan Bhardwaj, Chris Kaye, Josh Westerling, Tom
Devoy; Dom Mason, Seb Lane; Stan Timms, Toby Lawrence, Callum Rennie; Matt Goss
Sub: Tom Bowyer
Goals: Goss (28), Rennie (38, 46, 56), O.G. (72), Lawrence (75)

#OptaTiger: @callumrennie98 scored a hatrick on

both his first and last Tigers league games. Hero.

20 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

CALLUM RENNIE: HATTRICK HERO

STAN TIMMS LOOKS ON

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 21

U17A
Recent Form: W W W W W W
Tigers first team to grace Division 1. It has been a memorable season for
the side their first together as they have been extremely successful in all
competitions. A top four finish in the league has been rightly over-looked
by a appearance in todays Final. Quarter-finalists in the County Cup, have
also reached the semis of the Development Cup.
Manager: Gus Burton: Tigers top goalscorer to date, Burton opted to repay the club

in his role as manager this season. A reliable guy, who has the respect of his players. Burton
has taken his footballing talent from the pitch to the dug-out in what has been an exceptional season.
Coach: Dan Blackwell: A real club-man who has bought into the ethos of Tigers since
day one. A trustworthy person who is always committed to the club. He will be missed when
he goes to university next season.

#1 Tom Line Goalkeeper Tom has improved hugely over the course of the season,

and has become a crucial member of the team. A great shot-stopper, Tom has only missed
one game all season, and also has three goals to his name!

#2 Finn Mason Midfielder Quality football player, who goes about his business
with no fuss. A crucial part of the midfield and one of the hardest working players in the
team.

#3 Liam Bradley Defender Has played every minute of every game. A technically

sound full-back who also likes to bomb forward. A key player and is very rarely beaten by his
man.

#4 Sam Keen (c) Defender The skipper. A rock at the heart of the defence.

Strong in the air, you are unlikely to see him lose a header. A great leader and has the total
respect of his team.

#5 Ryan Williams Midfielder An electric winger who is good on the ball. Has suffered from injuries this season, but has made an impact when he has played.
22 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

#6 George Paynter DefenderAnother solid central-defender. A late addition

to the team, but has proved to be one of the most important players in this squad. A very
good tackler and also effective in the air.

#7 Sam Bates Midfielder A very gifted footballer, who has won this side games
on countless occasions. Technically sound, he causes every defender he faces problems.
One to watch today. Top-scorer and has also contributed with the most assists.

#8 Toby Cook Midfielder A hard-working and solid central midfielder. He reads

the game extremely well, and links up with his fellow midfielders effectively. When he plays
well so do the whole team.

#9 Dylan Stephens Midfielder Dylan is a nippy winger who has injected pace
into games on countless occasions. Runs at his man and has also contributed with goals
and assists.

#10 Dan Sheppard Striker A strong front-man who leads the line well. He holds

the ball up well, and is the sides second highest scorer this season. He has also assisted his
team-mates five times, proving his value to the team.

#11 Darius Adl Striker Provided the moment of the season with his sensational

second-half hat-trick away at Widmer End. Works hard and has popped up with goals in all
competitions that have contributed to the success of the team this season.

#17 Charlie Boyd Midfielder A reliable player who has filled in at various positions. Scored the goal-of-the-season with his wonder volley on the opening day.

#18 Raj Jutla Midfielder Another strong midfielder who works hard. Uses his
strength well, and puts a shift in every game.

#20 Tom Salter Midfielder Crucial addition to the team. Tom is a very good

footballer who is in great form. Has chipped in with some great goals, and brings the team
together with his strong passing, and efficient ability on the ball.

#21 Harry Layton Defender Strong full-back who was another crucial addition to
the team. He has good positional awareness and is a vital member of the back-four.

#22 Brad Mroncz Midfielder Ineligible to play today having joined from the
U17B team, but has injected directness and pace down the flank for the team.

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 23

GUS BURTON
MANAGERS COLUMN
What a season it has been. The
first Tigers team to ever grace
Division 1, finishing in the top
three, and most of all reaching
later stages of cup competitions,
with a chance to win multiple
silverware.

while socialising with their friends.

For me this is what Tigers is all
about, a very friendly club where
players can both play a good
standard of football and more
importantly have fun and socialise
at the same time.

All the praise is down to the boys,

who week in week out manage to
get a team together, some boys
more reliable than others, but a
full team every week is something
many Sunday league managers
dream of. Many of them nursing a
hangover, but never the less turn
out on time and r(o)aring to go.
The squad have made this experience very unique for myself, and
Dan. Their bubbly characters and
skill on the pitch means we get
some very entertaining, and at
times amusing, football.

Big thank you to Tring FC for

hosting this fantastic game today
and lastly, I want to thank everyone for their support this season,
especially the boys themselves for
making the Sunday mornings a
little easier for myself and Dan too.

I hope that todays game reflects

that about our team, 16 boys who
genuinely love playing football
24 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

#COYT!
Gus Burton
U17A Manager
@fergieburton

DAN BLACKWELL
COACHS THOUGHTS
I would like to welcome all the fans
from both sides to todays game.
The support this season has been
brilliant. We are very proud of the
fact people enjoy watching us play.
The team have been fantastic, Gus
and I have a squad we can really be
proud of. We really have exceeded
all expectations and the boys have
been outstanding.
For an U17 side to finish near the
top of Division 1 and to be in a
League Cup Final, County Cup
quarter and maybe the final of the
Development Cup is great.
We have played some brilliant
football and I hope today is no
different.
We have been blessed with
some extremely gifted footballers
who enjoy playing for Tigers.
Best of luck to both sides but may
our record breaking season continue with our first piece of silverware.

Dan Blackwell
U17A Coach
@dblackwell55

It will be an
extremely good
game, we are all
very excited!
TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 25

SAM KEEN
Sam Keen captains the U17A side in todays League
Cup Final. The skipper admits itll be a tough task, but
one his side can overcome...
We had a tough start to the season
with very inconsistent performances, however, I put this down to the
time it took us to know each other
as players, and not just mates.
An injury put me out for around
two months which was obviously
very disappointing, but the boys
did well without me. Upon return
I am pleased to say we have only
lost one game. The key to this is
not only the bond within our team,
but also the effort players have
put into progressing their personal
ability a lot further than expected.
The addition of some players after
the start of the season has had a
momentous impact, with the likes
of George Paynter helping to solidify the defence along with Harry
Layton, and Tom Salter.
I think it is fair to say everyone
within the team has contributed
to our season and most notably
our recent run of form, from our
top goal-scorer Sam Bates, who
has recently been tied down with
his new girlfriend, to Tom Line in
26 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

goal; however, recently the boys

have been working well together
and a lot harder as individuals with
the final fast approaching, and the
prospect of another one to follow.
Of course we as a team know how
tough a game the final will be with
the U18 side being in good form
too, and fancying themselves as
the team to go on and win the
tournament, but they have only
seen a glimpse of what we are capable of, and the degree to which
we have progressed as a team. We
can only get better.
Hopefully there will be a good
turnout and us boys will be able to
impress and lay down a foundation
for more silverware next season,
that is if Sam Bates doesnt commit all his time to his girlfriend. As
my vice captain he has performed
well this year, but recently I am
seeing signs of him having other
things on his mind, however, I
feel he may be a vital part to our
success as a team both today and
in the future with his assist tally
being off the chart. Most notably

his two assists for Darius hat trick

against Widmer End earlier in the
season - which was a day to be
remembered.
Lastly I move on to the recent
friendly against Barnet academy
which saw a mixed Tigers team go
on to beat the academy side 4-2.
This gave me and my team mates
who played in the game an insight
into a couple of the U18 players
and their styles of play, and also
performances from certain players
- such as man of the match Finn
Mason - filled me with confidence
going into this fixture, and I know
for a fact it will be a close encounter.

Sam Keen
U17A Captain
@samkeen1998
TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 27

STORY OF THE SEASON

U17A
P26 W21 D0 L5 AVERAGE GOALS FOR: 3.2 AVERAGE GOALS AGAINST 1.8*

The season started with an incredible performance at the SBYL pre-season

6-a-side tournament. Tigers finished runners-up. Since then the side have
had incredible cup runs, and recorded some impressive victories in Division
1 to finish in the top-four: a club record high.
The team reached the quarter-finals of the county-cup which set a new
club record. The team also reached the semi-final of the U21 Develpnment
Cup, the result of which was decided three days ago.
Memorable moments this season have included Darius Adls sensational hat-trick against Widmer End, Sam Bates last minute winner against
Chesham and the incredible seven-game winning streak which started in
October and ended in January.
Last weeks 1-0 win away to Prestwod demonstrated how far the team have
come in a short-space of time.It has been a memorable season by a group
of players that are very good footballers. Next season looks bright, and with
some new additions likely, there is no reason why this side can not go on
and win the Division 1 title. Gus Burton and Dan Blackwell have exceeded
all expectations. The side will be taken-on by Ed and Toby Lawrence next
season, and with a season worth of Division 1 experience, this team could be
the greatest ever to play in the Orange and Black of Wycombe Tigers.

21 Liam Bradley
20 Darius Adl
20 Finn Mason

18 Sam Bates
14 Dan Sheppard
10 Darius Adl

*Due to wins awarded, the team have played a total of 21 games

28 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

15 Sam Bates
5 Dan Sheppard
5 Toby Cook

ROUTE TO FINAL

Tigers have seen off some tough opponents on their way to todays cup-final, and were handed a bye in the semi-final to set up an all-Tigers tie.
The side scored a total of 19 goals in their three games previous to the
semis, and are in fine-form, having not lost a game since February.

Semi-Final
FLACKWELL HEATH A-W WYCOMBE TIGERS
Quarter Final
ASTON CLINTON 2-7 WYCOMBE TIGERS
4th Round
BALLINGER FC 2-3 WYCOMBE TIGERS
3rd Round
WYCOMBE TIGERS 9-3 CHINNOR YOUTH

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 29

LIAM BRADLEY
You've played every minute of
every game this season, how would
you sum up the campaign?
Its been quality. We've got a good
set of lads with some quality players, so playing as much as I have
is something to be proud of. Our
season has had its highs and lows,
but overall as a squad we've done
well and can hopefully kick on next
season.

we've got it in us to beat any team,

and am confident of us lifting Tigers first piece of silverware.

Would you say the season has

been a success?
Yeah without a doubt. To be put in
Division 1 at the start of the season
we weren't sure of how we'd do, but
we've competed with every team
in the league, and have landed
ourselves in a cup final.
Have the side improved over the
season?
Over the course of the season
we've learnt each others games,
and are hitting form just at the
right time. We are learning every
game, and what a first season we
could have with a cup win.
What are you expecting from
today's game?
We know the Tigers U18 side fairly
well and I fully expect us to be in a
tough game. However, I know that
30 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

@liamb1908

SAM BATES

Sam Bates leads the way as the top-scorer for the

U17As...
Personally I think Ive had a good season, and done bits for the team.
I hope I can continue that in todays cup final, he admitted. Ive been
dreaming of winning the cup since I came out of the womb, it would mean
a lot to me and the boys. The celebrations at the end if we did win would be
scenes.
Personal Goal? They were all wavey.
Team Goal? Charlie Boyd at Marlow. What a bang.
Supporter of the year? Fabs Kelly, the ginger Liberian.
Moment of the season? Darius hat-trick. It was a surprise.
@sambates98

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 31

LAST TIME OUT

17.04.2016
PRESTWOOD
COLTS

0-1

WYCOMBE
TIGERS

U17A climb to second in the table with well-earned 1-0 victory over Prestwood...
Tigers continued their superb run of form, which stretches back to the start
of February, with an impressive win over Prestwood on Tuesday evening (19
April). Sam Bates cool finish in the first-half proved to be the winner, but
Tigers had Tom Line in goal to thank for ensuring they secured all three
points. Prestwood reacted well, but were unable to grab an equaliser. On
the balance of play Tigers deserved it, and they go into their final games of
the season full of confidence.
Full report avaliable at www.wycombetigers.co.uk.
Tigers XI: Tom Line (GK); Harry Layton, Sam Keen (c), George Paynter,
Liam Bradley; Raj Jutla, Toby Cook, Finn Mason; Brad Mroncz, Sam Bates,
Dan Sheppard
Subs: Charlie Boyd, Dylan Stephens, Darius Adl
Goals: Bates (35)

#OptaTiger: The U17A have not drawn a game this

season. The only Tigers team to do so. Outcome.

32 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

GOAL! 35 BATES CURLS INTO THE CORNER

SHOT! DAN SHEPPARD GOES CLOSE

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 33

TIGERS BEAT ACADEMY

21.04.2016
2-4
A mixed Tigers XI defeated Barnet U16 academy team on Thursday night
(April 21) at the Hive training ground, in what was a memorable night for the
club.
Tigers stormed into a two-goal lead through a Sam Keen header within ten
minutes, before Ollie Gregory extended the lead mid-way through the first
half. The Bees grabbed a consolation before half-time with a well-taken
finish.
Barnet, who changed their entire team for the second-half, went on to score
an equaliser shortly after half-time, but Tigers rallied and scored a further
two goals through Matt Goss and Toby Lawrence.
Finn Mason was awarded man-of-the-match in what was one of the strongest midfield performances seen in a Tigers shirt.
It was a sensational result and one that will no doubt help to augment the
clubs reputation in the local area.
Jack ThorpeBarnets head of academy recruitmentsaid: Wycombe
Tigers are a club on the up with a fast growing reputation in Bucks, and
beyondtheir results this season speak for themselves.
Tigers XI: Tom Line (GK), Tyler Gregory, Sam Keen (c), George Paynter,
Callum Gray, Harry Layton, Ollie Gregory, Nat Green, Finn Mason, Tom
Salter, Toby Lawrence, Reuben Lin, Matt Goss, Dan Sheppard.
Goals: Keen (8), Gregory O (28), Goss (54), Lawrence (77)
34 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

Photos by Neale Blackburn

GOAL! 38 GREGORY HEADS HOME

GOAL! 54 TIGERS CELEBRATE THE THIRD

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 35

MATT GOSS

U18 striker Matt Goss looked back on the Barnet victory as one that was a
fantastic achievement, considering the level of the opposition.
It was a physical game, but we out-classed our opponents with skill, he
explained after the game.
Tigers did themselves very proud, winning our one-v-one battles and scoring four goals against a professional academy side.
It was a great feeling to score and it put us back ahead. It gave us momentum to go and get another, which we did, and we won the game.
The striker is looking forward to todays final, and is predicting a close game.
Todays final should be a tight game, both teams have quality players who
can have a huge influence on the outcome, he said.
Im expecting it to be a close match with a couple of goals for either side.
There should hopefully be a great atmosphere due to the fact both Tigers
teams play. Im really looking forward to it!
36 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

@mattgoss14

@finnmason99

FINN MASON

Man-of-the-match Finn Mason credited the way Tigers grew into the
game, and performed well as a group considering the fact it was a mixture
of players: the game was fast paced, and they had plenty of skilful players.
I thought our team of mixed age group players bonded quickly and that
helped us. We got the result we wanted, he said after the game.
It was my best performance given the status of the opposition. But I
wouldnt have been able to play as freely as I did if the defence hadnt
played as solidly as they did.
The team reacted very positively after Barnet swapped their entire team
with fresh legs at half-time, and then equalised shortly after. We played
fast attacking football which proved successful against the younger Barnet
side. Other than some class play from their striker in the first-half, and from
his replacement in the second, we never really looked in much danger of
conceding.
As a team I think weve got to take a lot of confidence away from a result
like that, which is ideal given the big fixtures we have coming up.

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 37

U17B JETS

P23 W13 D1 L9 AVERAGE GOALS FOR: 3.5 AVERAGE GOALS AGAINST: 3.0

The Jets. Where to start?! A slow season kick-fired into action as the side
went on an incredible seven-game winning streak, with some outstanding
performances thrown into the mix. Jamie McGurk broke a club-record as
he scored five goals in a game. The striker hit 25 goals for the season.
A slow end to the season resulted in the side dropping out of the running for
the Division Four title, but all-in-all it was a successful season for the clubs
new team.
Managed by former Tiger Josh Minett, the Jets will be looking to go one
better next season.

21 Tim Pope
20 Cam Simpson
20 Javi Tres

25 Jamie McGurk
9 Javi Tres
8 Adam Smith

11 Javi Tres
9 Luke Brosse
7 Freddie Roddick

#OptaTiger: @mcgurk_jamie is the only Tiger to have

scored five goals in one game. Clinical.

38 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

JAVI TRES

OUR SEASON
The long awaited arrival of Tigers
first piece of silverware has meant
much of the clamour in recent
weeks has been exclusively on the
U18s and U17As. And rightly so.
Both teams fully deserve their
place in the final. However, this
has meant the Jets, Josh Minnets
warriors, have gone unnoticed.
The start of the season looked ominous. Entertaining games saw free
flowing football resulting in goals
for Tigers, but even more against
although this should have been expected with some of our defenders
still getting to grips with the offside
rule (Tobias, Sean). Moreover, the
season ending injury to first-choice
shot stopper Labib Sheikh did not
help. All associated with the club
wish Labib a speedy recovery...
October and November however
marked a turnaround for the side,
coincidentally coinciding with the
disappearance of Adam Smith.
Seven straights wins fired the side
up the table thanks to the arrival
of Luke Brosse and the goalscoring
exploits of Jamie McGurk.

After this impressive run, the

sides form mellowed out, with
some questionable commitment
meaning many potential wins
turned into draws and defeats. A
4th place finish can be seen as undeserved, having shown the ability
and form to challenge for the title.
Highlights of the season include
McGurks record five-goal-game,
and turning up to a game on 3G
with less than half the team having
suitable footwear, forcing many to
wear running trainers. But we won.
The Jets finished as the top-scoring team in the division, having
also beaten all the teams they
played in the league at least once,
bar one.
Many individuals impressed: as
well as those already mentioned,
Simpson, Roddick and Brown all
deserve credit.
Javi Tres
@jtres98

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 39

OUR FIRST FINAL

Today will see Tigers win their first piece of silverware, however we did come
close in the 2013/14 season, as our then U17s made it to the Sub-Cup
Final. They were defeated 3-0 by Harefield United U18 Colts, at Flackwell
Heath FC.
The team were the first to go abroad on our pre-season trip to Germany too,
and contributed no-doubt in enhancing the clubs reputation in the area as
one with strong footballing teams.
This squad went on to finish runners-up in Division 2 the following season2014/15 -which is the clubs second highest finish to date. Today should be
much better!
Tigers XI: Lewis Dampier, Ed Roberts, Dom Holden, Tom Lee, Aidan

Vaughan, Josh Pusey, Jack Davies, Chay Milne, Nick Woolf, Harry Summerfield, George Stokes, Billy Franks (c), Zack Beeks, Jacob Younis, Gus
Burton
Manager: Baillie Milne

40 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

BILLY FRANKS
CAPTAIN
THAT DAY
Captaining the first Wycombe
Tigers team to reach a domestic
cup final is undoubtedly the highlight of my youth football career.
The game attracted the strongest
crowd in Tigers history, with many
in attendance inspired to join as
players for the following season.
Looking back, I see our appearance in the final as an important
step in developing the buzz which
now surrounds the club and attracts young footballers from all
over the county. Despite a disappointing result in 2014, Tigers took
pride in their football and played
with resilience. I expect todays
game to be equally competitive,
and would urge the lads to cherish
the opportunity of playing in a final
by representing their teams to the
best of their ability. Any result is a
success for Wycombe Tigers as a
club and testament to the indefatigable passion and professionalism
of Chairman Ed.
Billy Franks
@wjfrvnks
TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 41

MATCH INFO
Referee Paul Etherden
Aylesbury based referee Paul has received many plaudits for his style of refereeing this season and his consistently high average marks have earnt him
this plum appointment in our major cup competition today.
Assistant Referee Michael Green
On Saturdays Michael plays for Holmer Green FC and on Sundays he referees for the SBYL. He also works for the Surrey FA. One of our outstanding
young referees, his average marks put him in the top five for the past four
seasons.
Assistant Referee Fred Mullin
Fred is a keen Wycombe Wanderers fan and former secretary of the High
Wycombe & District Referees Society. He has refereed on the SBYL for
many years now and is well regarded for his refereeing style.
Fourth Official Peter Gibbins
Now in his third season of refereeing for the SBYL, Chesham based referee
Peter has proved to be a valuable addition to our referees panel. Peter also
referees in the womens super league and has recently refereed games for
this league at Watford and White Hart Lane.
Printed by:

42 | HOWARD CUP FINAL

On behalf of the South Bucks Youth League the committee warmly welcomes everyone to this afternoons Howard Cup Final. It is unique in that it
is the first occasion where two teams from the same club have won through
to face each other in the final. Congratulations to Wycombe Tigers FC and
in particular Wycombe Tigers Athletic & Wycombe Tigers Youth on reaching this stage.
We are sure this will be a keenly contested affair. Both teams appear in a
SBYL Final for the first time, the Youth team have impressively knocked out
some big scalps from Division 1 en route to the final. Currently in the second season with the SBYL they will finish in the top half of Division 2, and
have certainly impressed during the second half of the campaign. Athletic
have enjoyed a very successful first season taking on the task of competing
in Division 1 with relish. This season will see a top 4 finish at minimum, as
the notes are written they still have another Semi final to play in the development cup and also put together a long run in the county cup as well as
their appearance in todays final.The previous three Howard Cup finals have
all gone to extra time with two of the winners decided on penalties, expect
another close game this afternoon.
Todays Stadium
Once again for the second season running we are pleased to return to the
Grass Roots Stadium home of Tring Athletic FC. Please enjoy the hospitality the bar will be open and we would like to thank the staff and officials that
are looking after us today from Tring Athletic FC. We ask that spectators at
all times remain behind the pitch barriers, thank you for your cooperation.
Presentation Event
The Howard Cup and individual trophies will be awarded on the pitch at the
end of game.
Nicholas Bird Memorial trophy
Nicholas Bird was a well- liked and keen footballer from Wycombe Town.
The trophy was donated in 1998 in his memory and will be awarded to the
Man of the Match in this afternoons game.
The SBYL Committee congratulates all winners this season and thanks all
teams who have taken part in the league. We also extend our thanks to our
band of loyal referees who do such a splendid job for us.

TIGERS VS. TIGERS | 43

MATCHDAY
VS.
Under 17A

Under 18

Orange shirts with black shorts and socks

Grey shirts with black shorts and socks

Manager
Gus Burton
Coach
Dan Blackwell

TOM LINE
FINN MASON
LIAM BRADLEY
SAM KEEN (C)
RYAN WILLIAMS
GEORGE PAYNTER
SAM BATES
TOBY COOK
DYLAN STEPHENS
DAN SHEPPARD
DARIUS ADL
CHARLIE BOYD
RAJ JUTLA
TOM SALTER
HARRY LAYTON

Manager
Elliot Scott
Coach
Callum Wetherall

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
17
18
20
21

1
2
3
4
5
6
9
10
11
15
16
17
20
21
23

RORY STAMP
TOM BOWYER
JOSH WESTERLING
CHRIS KAYE
TOM DEVOY
AIDAN VAUGHAN
OPONE ADOH
TOBY LAWRENCE (C)
MATT GOSS
STAN TIMMS
ROHAN BHARDWAJ
CALLUM RENNIE
DOM MASON
DAN STATHAM
SEB LANE

Officials
Paul Etherden
Michael Green
Fred Mullin
Peter Gibbins
@WYCOMBETIGERS

/WYCOMBETIGERS

@WYCOMBETIGERS