Milford & Witley vs. Headley Veterans – Runwick Cup Quarter-Final Victory
Barry Parker • 1 March 2025
HEADLEY BEAT HIGHER LEAGUE OPPOSITION FOR THE FIFTH TIME THIS SEASON.
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Headley Veterans took on Milford & Witley, a top-three title challenger from the league above, in a massive Runwick Cup quarter-final away fixture.
Missing key players through injury and unavailability, the squad had to adapt, with a revised midfield setup and a new-look attacking three. But if there’s one thing this team has in abundance, it’s heart.
With Headley having recently having some slow starts, the management team of Chris Brown and stand-in captain Barry Parker made sure that wasn’t the case this time. An inspired pre-match team talk set the tone, and from the first whistle, it was clear who wanted it more. Mark Richards, returning after a long spell out, made his presence felt in midfield, wearing the infamous number 12 shirt once again.
First Half: Relentless Press and a Hat-Trick Hero
Headley were firing from the start. The midfield duo of Parker and ‘Rico’ Richards were dominant, dictating play and opening gaps for forward runs. Just 15 minutes in, Parker charged down the right, beating five players before cutting it back for Marius Melinte to slot home his first of the match.
With Travis Martin and Grant Stapleton pressing aggressively, the opposition’s full-backs couldn’t breathe, creating constant space for Headley’s attack. The pressure paid off again when Richards was hacked down on the edge of the box in the 24th minute, and Melinte finished with a clinical free-kick from 20 yards making it 2-0.
At the back, the defensive quartet of Darren Churcher, Martin Buttery, Paul Oliver, and Ionut Ratoi kept things tight, while Buttery rolled back the years with three or four trademark long throw-ins to keep the home team pinned in.
Then came the moment of controversy. In the 35th minute, an utterly baffling penalty decision was awarded against Ratoi for what seemed like a fair aerial challenge. Both teams were left stunned by the call, but Milford took full advantage to pull one back at 2-1.
This only fired up Headley even more. Parker and Richards responded with controlled aggression in midfield, with two crunching tackles leaving Milford players on the ground. While one challenge was deemed fair, Richards received a yellow for the second, adding even more intensity to an already fiery contest.
Just before halftime, Melinte produced a moment of brilliance, twisting past two defenders before finishing calmly to restore Headley’s two-goal cushion at 3-1. This silenced the home side, who were banking on a second-half revival on a pitch that was barely fit for football.
Second Half: Digging Deep to See it Out
Milford threw everything at it after the break, but Tiger in goal made crucial saves, his kicking proving a real weapon. Despite their best efforts, the home side only managed to bundle in a scrappy second goal, making it 3-2 with 25 minutes to go.
The visitors had to dig deep, especially after injuries forced multiple late changes. Ratoi limped off with a hamstring injury, while Richards put in a solid 70-minute shift before leaving the field battered and bruised. The shape shifted once again, with Stapleton moving into an unfamiliar central midfield role, alongside Melinte and Parker showing his versatility. New signing Kareem Davis made his mark early on and got used the grass surface and creating multiple chances with his quick feet and devastating pace.
The patient Jason Liddle added extra support in the midfield battle allowing Churcher and Oliver the ability to distribute from deep.
Sandeep-Baggins entered the field of play with 30 to go and his tenacious work broke up play in key areas allowing respite for the Headley defence, whilst also creating goal scoring opportunities for Davis and Fifield.
With the game nearing its end, Headley’s grit and defensive discipline ensured there were no more mistakes. Every single player put in a shift, staying compact and seeing out another huge cup victory against higher league opposition.
For the first time this season, Headley played in a 1995-style Claret and Blue away kit due to a kit clash—maybe it brought them some extra luck.
Post-Match Reaction
"They couldn’t deal with the press or our work rate today. Every single player grafted for each other and stuck to their jobs. We were by far the better side and fully deserved that win. Another scalp from a higher league, another semi-final. The Vets go marching on!"
Chris Brown
"A great team performance. We were missing players, but everyone stepped up. The ref was shocking. A shocking penalty decision and inconsistency that put us under pressure. But despite the horrendous pitch, we battled relentlessly and took the game to them."
Barry Parker
Final Score: Milford & Witley 2-3 Headley Veterans
Headley are now into the semi-finals of the Runwick Cup, with Fleet Town next up, a side they comfortably beat 5-0 at home earlier this season. Another big game awaits.
Next fixture is a massive home league fixture against current undefeated league leaders Rushmoor on Sunday 2nd March.
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Runwick Cup Victory!
Headley Veterans dominated Old Salesians with an emphatic 4-0 win in tough conditions, battling 40+ mph winds, the team showed grit and determination to secure a spot in the quarterfinals.
Highlights:
⚽ Barry Parker opened the scoring with a composed penalty in the first half.
⚽⚽️ Larry Fifield added two more, continuing his unstoppable form.
⚽ Simon Gordon stunned everyone with a corner kick goal straight into the net!
🎩 Danny McGarry claimed 8 assists.
💪 Player of the Match: Captain Nick Oram-Tooley, leading by example with tireless energy and brilliant link-up play.
🧤Stand-in goalkeeper Paul Murphy stepped up big time, ensuring a clean sheet in his unexpected role.
A complete team performance with every player contributing! On to the quarterfinals and sitting third in the league with games in hand.
Full Match report now live.
#HeadleyVeterans #CupRun #TeamPerformance #Victory #Dominance #Football #GrassrootsFootball
A dominating performance from the Veterans at home in the Invitational Cup sees us advance to the next round.
The veterans had 6 first team players unavailable and a late withdrawal from Martine Buttery for the home fixture - but with a talented 25-man squad committed for the season, Brown and Parker had good headaches when selecting the starting line-up.
The lads held a minutes silence in the changing room for Steve Graham’s right knee that has unfortunately got the better of him and forced him into early retirement 🙏🏻
The gifted squad showcased the mentality and mindset shared throughout every game this season which was demonstrated with four goals for revitalised winger Grant Stapleton and equally four assists and a goal for part time hair consultant Simon Gordon.
The game was done by half-time and with little pressure on the motivated home team, it was difficult to retain intensity and purpose. Some great movement, passing, and teamwork gifted Fifiled his 5th and 6th of the season.
Chris Brown said after the game;
“Good mileage in the legs and a good run out for the lads as we prepare for another cup fixture next weekend at home to Old Salesions in the Runwick Cup”.
@headleyveterans are have three games left this side of the Christmas break where they will look to progress in their cup competitions and up the League ⚽️🏆
#veterans #headley #headleyveterans #football #hampshire
🎙️ Headley Veterans: Player Q&A with Darren Churcher
It’s Darren’s turn to step into the spotlight for our latest social media feature. Here’s what he had to say when we put him to the test with three questions:
1️⃣ You seem to like collecting cards, so we ask: what do you prefer—Birthday Cards, or Red Cards?
“It will come as a surprise to most of you, but I don’t really like cards. As for the yellow and red ones, they’re normally down to poor refereeing. I’m an 😇 on the pitch!”
2️⃣ Best footballer in the world right now?
“Rodri. He may not score all the goals or grab the headlines, but when he plays, whether for Man City or Spain, the team rarely loses. Man City’s form since his injury shows just how good he is!”
3️⃣ Is Tuchel the right man for the job? 🏴
“Who knows? If we win the World Cup, then yes! I’m happy the FA went with a bit of a wild card. Hopefully, he can make us good to watch and deliver the results 🤞.”
#HeadleyVeterans #PlayerQnA #Rodri #Tuchel #FootballChat #TeamSpirit
Halloween Pumpkin Pitch 🎃
@headleyveterans faced East Meon on their notorious home turf - a pitch so challenging the referee warned, “You can’t play football on this, lads!” Despite the eight foot grass, and uneven ground, we started strong, with Captain OT scoring within just 3 minutes. East Meon quickly responded after 10’ as we struggled to get any balance on the field. Meon then capitalised ofter a slip by the reliable Tiger but Stapleton’s well-taken equalizer leveled the game.
In a dominant second half, Headley struck the post three times, rattled the bar, and forced numerous saves from the home keeper, but the pitch conditions took their toll on every player.
A cup bye week offered some welcome rest as Eversley and California couldn’t field a team. The gold and black army take on Bourne Casuals at Headley Pavilion this coming Sunday Nov 17th 🤝⚽
Full match report now available on the website.
#HeadleyVeterans #FootballChallenges #MatchDay
HEADLEY BATTLE THROUGH TO ADVANCE IN THE RUNWICK CUP ⚽
Six key players missing, stormy weather, and a higher-division opponent who’d only lost once this season. Everything was stacked against us, but Headley Veterans were ready…
The match kicked off with an early goal from Barry Parker after a perfect cross from OT. A quick goal from the visitors settled the score minutes later, but moments of brilliance followed - Melinte’s stunning 30-yard lob from a key pass from Buttery had us back in the lead - a couple of tough breaks, including a goal-of-the-season OG from Parker and a slippery cross-ball into Tiger saw us down 3-2 at halftime.
The second half was all heart. A penalty from Parker tied the game at 3-3, and he wasn’t finished—his 35-yard screamer sealed the win, 4-3.
Our defense, led by Ionut, Oliver and Sleater stood strong as Cranleigh pushed for an equalizer - some meaty last ditch tackles and Tiger’s crucial saves kept them at bay.
A powerful and determined display for the squad in poor conditions.
As the final whistle blew, we celebrated a victory that showed what Headley Veterans are all about: resilience, unity, and pure determination.
On to the next round - we’re just getting started! 💪⚽
#HeadleyVeterans #RunwickCup #Victory #TeamSpirit #FootballStory #WeAreHeadley
Player Spotlight with James “The Tiger” Small! 🐯⚽
We recently sat down with our very own James “The Tiger” Small for an exclusive interview in his first season in @headleyveterans. Here’s a snippet of our conversation with the man who’s been a part of Headley football club for decades!
Q: When did you start playing football, and what was your first club?
“I first started playing football when I was about 7 years old, and I played for Headley Down Boys.”
Q: Being a Saints fan is a tough job. Who is your all-time favourite Saints player?
“My favourite Saints player is LE GOD—Matt Le Tissier @mattletiss7 ! Absolute legend!” ⚽🔥
Q: Your nickname is “Tiger.” Tell us where this came from!
“The name Tiger came from my grandad. When I was younger, there were so many James’s in my team, so one day, my grandad started calling me Tiger. It stuck with me all through my football days, even up until now!”
Managers Baz (@its_blp) and Chris (@chris_c_bee) gave some feedback on James season so far;
Tiger started training with the squad at the beginning of the summer and has quickly evolved into a key player in the squads success. Naturally a goals scorer, Tiger has found a solid position at the other end of the pitch taking the gloves from the injured Brown.
He will deny it, but he lives on Kelloggs Frosties. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. But that’s a personal choice, we only care about his performance on a Sunday, and so far - he has been Grrrrrrreeaat! 🧤
Stay tuned for more player stories and interviews - Headley Veterans are always full of surprises!
#HeadleyVeterans #PlayerSpotlight #FootballInterview #JamesTheTiger #FootballLegend #SaintsFan #HeadleyDownBoys #FootballJourney
Match Report: Headley Veterans 2-2 Ashtead Veterans (Match Abandoned at 66’) ⚽️
Headley Veterans faced Ashtead in a home league clash that was tragically abandoned after a serious injury to an Ashtead player. The match began with a minute of applause in memory of Paul Maddox, a cherished figure at Headley, who sadly passed away on 29th September 🙏🏻
Ashtead took the lead early with a cross-shot mistake in the 8th minute, but Headley fought back. Gordon equalized in the 33rd minute with a top-corner finish, and just minutes later, Nick Oram-Tooley scored a stunning, goal-of-the-season contender bicycle kick to put Headley 2-1 up.
In the second half, a controversial penalty for Ashtead leveled the game at 2-2, with Headley then controversially going down to nine men as honest protests from Headley players saw three yellow cards in the space of a minute - resulting in a red for Churcher and Sin-Bin for McGarry.
Headley battled on until an injury to an Ashtead player forced the game to be abandoned.
We wish the injured player a speedy recovery. A replay is likely, and Headley will be ready! 💪
#RIPPaul #HeadleyVeterans #MatchDay #FootballCommunity #Respect #Headley
Future Investment Announced ⚽️
Exciting News for Headley Football Club 👇🏻
Headley Parish Council (HPC) has been working hard to upgrade our beloved Margery Wheatley Pavilion and the Mill Lane Playing Fields— the heart of our footballing community!
We’ve secured an incredible £975,000 in funding, much of which comes from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and Section 106 agreements from local development projects.
The total cost of the improvements exceeds the funding we’ve secured so far, so HPC is seeking additional funds to complete the project. If this funding isn’t granted before we sign contracts with the builders, we’ll be applying for a loan from the Public Works Loan Board— but rest assured, this will not exceed £210,000.
This is where you come in! 🫵
We’re inviting the local community to take part in a consultation process to share your views on the project. Your feedback is invaluable, and it will help us make sure the Pavilion and fields will serve our community for many more years to come. ❤️
All feedback will remain strictly confidential, with only summarised conclusions shared at the end of the consultation period.
🔗 https://pure-potential.survey.fm/headley-playing-fields-pavilion-consultation
Visit the link for more information about the Pavilion and how to get involved.
Let’s work together to build a future we can all be proud of! 💪
#HeadleyFC #MargeryWheatleyPavilion #CommunityProject #BuildingForTheFuture #95Season #MillLane #Headley
Interview with Nick Oram-Tooley aka “The GOATEE” 🎤
We had the chance to catch up with our very own Captain Fantastic, Nick Oram-Tooley, to get his thoughts on the season so far. The GOAT(EE) has been a rock for the team, both on and off the pitch, and here’s what he had to say:
How do you manage to keep fit?
“Training with the Vets, regular gym work, and running with the dog! Keeps me ticking over and ready for matchday.”
What’s it like being captain of the Veterans?
“Love it, and it’s a true privilege! I’ve played with the Vets for over a decade now and feel lucky to still have my health and fitness to lead such a top bunch of fellas.”
Talk us through that last bicycle kick…
“I miss the easy ones and score the tricky ones! Saw the ball up there and thought I was 21 again, so I went for it! New boots helped too! Basically doing a Maverick—brain still cashing cheques my body’s trying to handle!”
Player - Manager Parker and said to the cameras after the interview. “Nick’s energy and commitment are infectious, and his leadership has brought a whole new vibe to the squad”. Manager Chris Brown added “The players know what OT brings to squad, such a versatile player that always leaves everything out in the pitch”.
OT gave big thanks to the new management team for all the work behind the scenes, giving praise for the new energy around the squad and stated the team culture is stronger than ever. 💪
#CaptainFantastic #GOATEE #HeadleyVeterans #Football #VeteransFootball #Teamwork #KeepAttacking
🔝 KEEP ATTACKING 🔝
The new era for Headley Veterans, required a fresh new approach, re-vitalisation and a consultancy in our team mindset.
We’re proud to have our new kit sponsor @KeepAttacking on board, whose philosophy perfectly aligns with our mentality. Their support has helped lift standards across the club - from our sharp new kits to the way we approach every game. With their backing, we’ve embraced a new level of professionalism and unity, both in training and on match days.
If it’s a tough opponent, digging deep in moments as a squad or battling through challenges on and off the pitch, this mantra drives us to push harder, remain resilient, and never back down - it’s on our back to push us a little further each time we put the on a golden shirt🤝
This partnership is about more than just football; it’s about perseverance, belief, and always striving for better. Together, we’re building something special 💪⚽️
#KeepAttacking #HeadleyVeterans #Football #Resilience #PushingForward #Teamwork #NewKit
MATCH REPORT: Ockham Veterans 3-2 Headley Veterans
A depleted but determined Headley Veterans squad battled hard on Sunday but narrowly missed out on the win against Ockham, falling 3-2 in a tight contest. Despite injuries, positional changes, and some questionable offside calls, the team put in a valiant effort.
Larry Fifield opened the scoring early, assisted by Mario, giving Headley a deserved lead. A brilliant volley from Richards, after Leigh Wilson’s assist, doubled the lead. But an Ockham goal just before halftime shifted the momentum.
Injuries to Woody and OT forced Headley to play the final 35 minutes with 10 men. Ockham capitalised, leveling the score and then sneaking a scrappy third. Despite the setback, Headley kept pushing. Mario and Richards had two goals disallowed, and a last-minute barrage saw shots cleared off the line.
Post-match, Barry Parker praised the squad: “We created chances and battled with 10 men. We deserved at least a point, but we regroup and go again.”
Chris Brown added: “The resilience was there. The league title is still in sight.”
🔜 Next up: Peter Hobdell Challenge Cup vs Complete Vets, 29th Sept.
#HeadleyVeterans #Football #NeverGiveUp #OnToTheNextOne #Resilience
Chris Brown’s Pre-Season and First League Game Overview
Pre-season has been a fantastic journey so far, and co-managing with Baz (Barry Parker) has been a natural transition for both of us. We’ve spent the past three years managing The Headley Hawks for our sons, and that experience has built a strong working relationship. Bringing that teamwork and understanding into the veterans’ squad has been seamless, and it’s shown in our early performances.
The Ropley Tournament was a great starting point, finishing 3rd on goal difference with 14 goals scored and just two conceded. Despite missing some key players, the squad adapted well and showed we’re a team to be reckoned with. It gave us the momentum we needed to kick off the league season on the right foot.
Our first league game against Odiham Crocs was exactly the kind of start we wanted. The team came out firing, with quick link-up play and clinical finishing putting us 4-0 up within the first 20 minutes. Goals from Larry Fifield, Marius Milente, and Paul Murphy highlighted the squad’s attacking potential, and even when Odiham pushed back with some late goals, our structure and discipline held firm.
Managing alongside Baz has been a great experience. Our time with the Hawks has helped us develop a strong understanding of how to balance attacking flair with defensive organisation, and we’re applying that same approach here. The bond we’ve built managing the Hawks has carried over to the veterans, and we’re already seeing how our teamwork is helping bring out the best in this squad.
Looking ahead, we know the season will bring its challenges - injuries, absences, tough matches - but we’re ready to face whatever comes our way. The first game was a great statement of what we’re capable of, and we’re excited to keep building on that foundation.
The hard work doesn’t stop here—onwards and upwards for the rest of the season! 💪⚽️
#HeadleyVeterans #Football #KeepAttacking #VeteransFootball #Teamwork #Season95
THE NEW ERA FOR HEADLEY VETERANS!
The Headley Veterans kicked off their 95th league season in style with an electrifying 5-3 win over Odiham Crocs at home! With the Headley Hawks U10s and Hurricanes U12s walking out alongside the Veterans, it was a true community day to remember.
⚽️ Early goals from OT, Marius, and Paul Murphy put Headley 4-10 within 20 minutes, and despite some late pushback from Odiham, the Veterans held strong.
Player/Managers Barry Parker and Chris Brown spoke after the game: “To see the team gel like this in just a few weeks shows the great things to come this season!”
Headley Veterans are top of the league and ready to take on Ockham next week. 💪
🔜 Next match: Sept 15th vs Ockham (Away)
#HeadleyVeterans #Football #VeteransFootball #Community #Kickoff #Season95 #Teamwork
Veterans x Hawks x Hurricanes.
Three Generations of Football come together to commemorate the start of the 95th League Season 🤝
#Headley #HeadleyFootball #Veterans #HeadleyVeterans
95TH LEAGUE SEASON BEGINS FOR HEADLEY VETERANS! 🏆
This year marks a monumental milestone for Headley Veterans Football Club as we kick off our 95th season, continuing a proud legacy that started back in 1930!
Since our formation, Headley Football Club have been a cornerstone of the community, bringing together generations of players to share in the beautiful game. With nearly a century of footballing history behind us, we’re more determined than ever to keep pushing forward with the same passion, teamwork, and spirit that has defined us for 95 years.
As we step into this historic season, we can’t wait to make new memories, face new challenges, and celebrate our rich heritage.
Here’s to the next chapter—onwards and upwards! 💪⚽️
#HeadleyVeterans #95YearsStrong #FootballHistory #Since1930 #VeteransFootball #CommunitySpirit
Headley Veterans Secure Top 3 Place at Ropley Tournament! 🏆
What a day! The Headley Veterans showed heart, skill, and determination, finishing 3rd on goal difference in the Ropley Tournament. With standout victories—4-0 over Ropley Reserves and an incredible 10-0 demolition of Farnham Mavericks—the squad proved they’re ready for the new season!
Despite losing key players Dan Sleater and Simon “Flash” Gordon, and a controversial red card for Darren Churcher, the team fought hard against tough competition, including a narrow 1-0 loss to the Isle of Wight XI and a tight semi-final against unbeaten AFC Stoneham.
Managers Barry Parker & Chris Brown praised the team’s unity and resilience, saying, “Proud would be an understatement.” With the season opener against Odiham Crocs just around the corner, the Veterans are poised for a strong campaign.
Goals scored: 14. ⚽️ Goals conceded: 2. Third place secured 🥉
🔜 Next game: Sept 7th, 10:30 AM KO vs Odiham Crocs at home! #HeadleyVeterans #Football #RopleyTournament #VeteransFootball #Teamwork #KeepAttacking
🎯 MATCH REPORT 🎯
Beacon Hill 2-6 Headley Veterans
A pre-season masterclass from Headley Veterans saw them claim a 6-2 win against Beacon Hill! New player-managers Barry Parker and Chris Brown led the squad with fresh tactics and high energy. Larry Fifield shone with a hat-trick, while Parker added two goals of his own. Solid debuts from Ionut and Marius, with key assists and dynamism throughout.
With standout performances across the pitch, including Martin Buttery’s defensive work and Paul Murphy’s playmaking, the squad is set for a strong season ahead.
Next stop: Ropley Tournament on Sept 1st! 💪
#HeadleyVeterans #Football
A preview of some of our pre-season squad that completed a tour of Beacon Hill ⚽️📸
#Headley #HeadleyVeterans #HeadleyFootball #BeaconHill #Veterans
A new era.
WELCOME TO THE VETERANS 🤝
Welcome to the official Instagram page of Headley Veterans Football Club! Established with a passion for the beautiful game and a commitment to camaraderie, we are proud members of the Farnham & District Sunday Football League.
Our squad is a diverse mix of seasoned players who share a love for football, a dedication to sportsmanship, and a strong sense of community.
Looking to join us?
Whether you are a seasoned veteran player looking to join our ranks or a supporter eager to cheer us on, Headley Veterans welcomes you.
Our club is more than just a football team; it is a community where lifelong friendships are formed, and the love for the game is celebrated every week.
Stay connected with us through our website and social channels for the latest news, match updates, and events.
#veterans #football #headley #headleyveterans #hampshire
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Total Control on a Tough Surface
Invitation Cup Semi-Final | Sunday 6th April 2025
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A DAY TO FORGET FOR THE FLYING VETERANS
Facing top-of-the-league, unbeaten Rushmoor Community Vets, Headley knew they were in for a battle. With five first-team regulars missing due to “fancy dress commitments,” the squad had to dig deep. And they did exactly that, producing an outstanding performance against the most dominant team in the division.
MATCH REPORT: Headley Veterans vs Samba Kings
A REPEAT OF LAST SEASONS FIXTURE AT LORD WANDSWORTH COLLEGE
In new warm up smocks just in time for Christmas, Headley Veterans turned on the style with an emphatic 5-0 victory over Fleet Town Veterans, advancing to the quarter-finals of the Invitational Cup. This game had it all: moments of brilliance, a touch of humor, and a squad brimming with confidence and camaraderie.
In testing conditions at the impressive George the Fifth Football Complex, Headley Veterans emerged triumphant with a commanding 4-1 win over the undefeated Fleur de Lys Veterans. Storm Darragh's remnants left a slippery pitch and unpredictable winds, but Headley showed their class and resilience to claim a spot in the FA Hampshire Cup semi-finals.
The Headley Veterans squad was firing on all cylinders during their dominant 4-0 win over Old Salesians. Each player contributed to a seamless team performance that blended individual brilliance with collective cohesion.