Hello Everyone,
Very sorry, but I'm afraid this is my last City Alert. For purely personal reasons, I have this morning resigned as Truro City's press officer. This means that with immediate effect the City Alerts service is being closed down, ditto my weekly Truro City column in the Sunday Independent and my match day programme contributions. I am furnishing the club with all my media contacts for press releases.
With the closedown of the City Alerts website, I am anticipating that I will now also lose my editor@cityalerts.co.uk email address immediately. So for any continuing personal contact please use my main address, mike@goldenreplay.com, and if ever you have any problems with that one, try mikegold1@btconnect.com.
I like to think that I leave Truro City's PR - its communications with fans and media - in a much healthier state than just over three years ago, when I started the club's Sunday Independent column and conceived and developed City Alerts.
I'm also very hopeful that, with the structure, personnel and policies now in place, my leaving will result in little if any overall difference in the club's relations with its fans and media.
I have enjoyed my time at the heart of the club immensely and I wish Peter and Pep in particular all the success in the world with their new interest!
Reflecting on the past three years, a very special word of thanks must - of course - go to Lee Hodges. I will miss my regular chats with him, at least twice a week, very much. He is that rare breed in football - someone who manages to succeed despite being a genuine nice guy and a gentleman. I know all supporters, to a man, will be right behind me when I say that we have been incredibly fortunate in having such an outstandingly able young man at the helm throughout this extremely difficult period.
Lee has forged an unprecedentedly close link - and mutual respect - with the fans in that time, and (yep, seems such a long time ago now) guided the club so impressively to promotion from the Southern League Premier Division in 2011.
He must have lost count of the times he went to hell and back during those darkest weeks of them all last autumn, but he was always there - for me and all the media - ready to co-operate, ready to answer all the awkward questions, ready to "take it on the chin" when it seemed things just could not get any worse.
Similarly, the way his players demonstrated their commitment to the club by continuing to play, week after week and frequently with Herculean efforts and performances on the pitch - and while they were being unpaid for it all, to boot - was just incredible. Repeat, incredible.
Of this, and the whole amazing, crazy season with all its dramas, traumas, highs and lows, I think I can safely say that in all my 46 years as a full-time professional writer . . . I have never known anything quite like it!!
As for the club's fans, my heartfelt thanks to all those of you who have got in touch and encouraged me to "keep up the good work" with these City Alerts.
I guess it's really a case of watch this space now for City Alerts. Either someone else within the club will pick it up and run with it, or you will simply see an even more lively official club website, which will be no bad thing anyway. So keep visiting that website!
For now, it's over and out from me, although I look forward very much to continuing to watch City next season, purely as a paying spectator, and I hope more than I can say that by then the club will have stability and sustainability, and that the standard of football we have come to expect and cherish in recent seasons will be back again in double-quick time.
MIKE TRUSCOTT
29 April 2013
City Alerts - Lee's view on the Tonbridge game
LEE'S VERDICT on Tonbridge Angels 3 Truro City 2:
"We arrived at the ground 15 minutes before the scheduled kick-off, after major delays caused by a pile-up, and unfortunately we started off very much like a team that was still on the bus after a seven-hour journey. We conceded early, but slowly grew into the game.
"Tonbridge's second and third goals were taken well but were really down to us not taking up our defensive positions properly. The goals were a bit sloppy from our point of view. We had a chat about it at half-time and the boys came out, gave it a right go and pulled back to 3-2.
"But then Joe Broad was sent off in what was an absolutely incredible decision. I would have been shocked if he'd even had a yellow for his tackle. We were also denied two clear penalties, one in each half, but full credit to the boys; I was just disappointed they didn't come away with anything from it."
LEE on the season now ended: "It's obviously been extremely difficult and I'm just proud to have got through it all with as many players as possible. I'm chuffed to bits that we managed to complete all our games. The memories - of all the fantastic performances against all the odds on the field and the incredible support from the fans - will live on forever. Now we just watch and wait, with a lot of decisions having to be made very quickly."
Actually . . . . we agreed that it would be well nigh impossible to do justice to it all, and everyone concerned, in a few short words of summary. So far better to link you to Lee's interview with DAVE DEACON after the match:--
http://www.cornishsoccer.info/Lee%20Hodges%20after%20Tonbridge.mp3
"We arrived at the ground 15 minutes before the scheduled kick-off, after major delays caused by a pile-up, and unfortunately we started off very much like a team that was still on the bus after a seven-hour journey. We conceded early, but slowly grew into the game.
"Tonbridge's second and third goals were taken well but were really down to us not taking up our defensive positions properly. The goals were a bit sloppy from our point of view. We had a chat about it at half-time and the boys came out, gave it a right go and pulled back to 3-2.
"But then Joe Broad was sent off in what was an absolutely incredible decision. I would have been shocked if he'd even had a yellow for his tackle. We were also denied two clear penalties, one in each half, but full credit to the boys; I was just disappointed they didn't come away with anything from it."
LEE on the season now ended: "It's obviously been extremely difficult and I'm just proud to have got through it all with as many players as possible. I'm chuffed to bits that we managed to complete all our games. The memories - of all the fantastic performances against all the odds on the field and the incredible support from the fans - will live on forever. Now we just watch and wait, with a lot of decisions having to be made very quickly."
Actually . . . . we agreed that it would be well nigh impossible to do justice to it all, and everyone concerned, in a few short words of summary. So far better to link you to Lee's interview with DAVE DEACON after the match:--
http://www.cornishsoccer.info/Lee%20Hodges%20after%20Tonbridge.mp3
28 April 2013
Truro City chairman frustrated as club's future still unclear
By Rhod Mitchell, This is Cornwall.
Truro City chairman Pete Masters has admitted his frustration at the uncertainity surrounding the future of the already relegated club which ended its two year spell in Blue Square South, with a 3-2 defeat at Tonbridge Angels today.
In a statement issued immediately after the game he said:
"Whilst clearly it is a big disappointment for the club to have been relegated from the Conference South, it remains a fantastic achievement for the club to have survived the Administration, which was assisted by the players' agreement to waive their arrears back in November 2012.
"If Truro City Football Club Limited (in Administration) is able to pass an approved Company Voluntary Arrangement, then it is understood that the club would just be relegated (due to its league position) to the Southern League Premier Division.
"If not, then it is understood that the Club is likely to be playing in either the Southern League Division One South & West or the Western League.
"We understand from the FA that this decision cannot be made until at least after the Football
Conference's AGM, which is scheduled for 8th June 2013.
"In the circumstances, it is clearly impossible for us to make too many plans until the situation in relation to the CVA is finalised and the FA have clarified the Club's league position.
"This is frustrating for all involved, but given the state the Club was in when we took over, we all knew it was not going to be easy.
"We perhaps did not know that it was going to be so hard, but the fact remains that the Club has against the odds survived and, worst case, will remain the highest placed football club in the County.
I will release a further statement once the League position has been clarified.
"Once again, thanks for your effort and commitment to the Club and, hopefully, next season we can look forward to stability off the pitch and success on it.
Truro City chairman Pete Masters has admitted his frustration at the uncertainity surrounding the future of the already relegated club which ended its two year spell in Blue Square South, with a 3-2 defeat at Tonbridge Angels today.
In a statement issued immediately after the game he said:
"Whilst clearly it is a big disappointment for the club to have been relegated from the Conference South, it remains a fantastic achievement for the club to have survived the Administration, which was assisted by the players' agreement to waive their arrears back in November 2012.
"If Truro City Football Club Limited (in Administration) is able to pass an approved Company Voluntary Arrangement, then it is understood that the club would just be relegated (due to its league position) to the Southern League Premier Division.
"If not, then it is understood that the Club is likely to be playing in either the Southern League Division One South & West or the Western League.
Conference's AGM, which is scheduled for 8th June 2013."In the circumstances, it is clearly impossible for us to make too many plans until the situation in relation to the CVA is finalised and the FA have clarified the Club's league position.
"This is frustrating for all involved, but given the state the Club was in when we took over, we all knew it was not going to be easy.
"We perhaps did not know that it was going to be so hard, but the fact remains that the Club has against the odds survived and, worst case, will remain the highest placed football club in the County.
I will release a further statement once the League position has been clarified.
"Once again, thanks for your effort and commitment to the Club and, hopefully, next season we can look forward to stability off the pitch and success on it.
Ten man City end troubled season with 25th defeat
By Rhod Mitchell, This is Cornwall. Images by Steve Rogers.
Tonbridge Angels 3 Truro City 2
City's two season spell in the Blue Square Bet South came to a disappointing end in Kent with an unfortunate defeat – their 25th of a very difficult season.
Already relegated from Step 2, at just what level the club will be playing next season is still unclear, and just how many of the current squad and management will remain is uncertain.
But again they did the club proud after arriving just 15 minutes before the scheduled kick-off because of traffic hold ups on the long trip from Cornwall.
And after rushing to get ready, the visitors were caught "still on the bus" when Aaron Gayle gave the home side the lead after two minutes, though Paul Hider might have done better with the shot.
However, City were soon on level terms when the excellent Barry Hayles levelled with a fine shot, but poor defending allowed the prolific Frannie Collin to give the home side a 3-1 interval lead.
After the break, Hayles quickly pulled a goal back and City looked on course to take something from the game until midfielder Joe Broad saw red with 20 minutes to go.
City still had chances to level in a frantic finale but it was not to be, leaving manager Lee Hodges frustrated, not for the first time this season.
He said: "We should have taken something from the game. I thought the officiating was terrible.
"Joe's tackle was not even a booking and we could have had a couple of penalties.
"But I would like to thank all the players for what they have done for me this season."
City: Hider; Washburn, Ash (capt), Williams, Watts, Cooke, Broad, Copp, Afful, Hayles, Wright. Subs: Watkins, Davey.
Tonbridge Angels 3 Truro City 2
City's two season spell in the Blue Square Bet South came to a disappointing end in Kent with an unfortunate defeat – their 25th of a very difficult season.
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| Chairman's Player of the Year, Les Afful playes 42 games this season. |
Already relegated from Step 2, at just what level the club will be playing next season is still unclear, and just how many of the current squad and management will remain is uncertain.
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| Ben Williams in action |
And after rushing to get ready, the visitors were caught "still on the bus" when Aaron Gayle gave the home side the lead after two minutes, though Paul Hider might have done better with the shot.
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| Barry and Lee lead the way |
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| Watkins and Jordan Copp leave the pitch |
After the break, Hayles quickly pulled a goal back and City looked on course to take something from the game until midfielder Joe Broad saw red with 20 minutes to go.
City still had chances to level in a frantic finale but it was not to be, leaving manager Lee Hodges frustrated, not for the first time this season.
He said: "We should have taken something from the game. I thought the officiating was terrible.
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| Jake Ash throws the captains arm band to the fans |
"Joe's tackle was not even a booking and we could have had a couple of penalties.
"But I would like to thank all the players for what they have done for me this season."
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| Fans applaud the players after the game |
City: Hider; Washburn, Ash (capt), Williams, Watts, Cooke, Broad, Copp, Afful, Hayles, Wright. Subs: Watkins, Davey.
Some fans images from the Tonbridge Angels game
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| Tisa boys in full song |
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| Shauny's goin to get ya! |
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| Bolton Phil with Andy Rogers and Royston Wilkins |
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| Players thank the fans for their commitment and support after the game |
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| John Grenfell, Barry, Steve Rogers, Les and JP. |
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| Barry Hayles with John Mara and Les Afful. |
TISA present Lee Hodges with their own trophy
In appreciation of Lee Hodges and his unwaivering commitment to the Club and the fans, TISA proudly presented a trophy. The main inscription read "Who Needs Mourinho"! Organised by Snowy, the trophy was presented by Dave Grimshaw.
27 April 2013
Truro City aim to end Conference South stint on a high
BBC Sport LINK
The White Tigers, who were relegated at the start of the month,
face a Tonbridge side who are assured of another season in the division.
"It's our final game in the Conference South and it would be nice to finish off with a win," he told BBC Cornwall.
"I'm sure there'll be a party atmosphere for the final game."
City, who have finished bottom of the table, have had a difficult season off the field with the club almost going bust and concerns surrounding its future.
Truro are also without record goalscorer Stewart Yetton after he was suspended following an alleged fight with a team-mate last week.
"It's been a very difficult season and after that we'll sit down, take a deep breath and see what happens form there on," Hodges said.
"It's a really good standard to play at and we felt if we'd have had a competitive squad we would have done OK in the division.
"I think the boys are going to be sad that it is their last game in the division, but they'll try and go out and get the win for the travelling fans."
Truro City
boss Lee Hodges says he wants his side to end their time in the Conference South
on a high when they visit Tonbridge Angels.
"It's our final game in the Conference South and it would be nice to finish off with a win," he told BBC Cornwall.
"I'm sure there'll be a party atmosphere for the final game."
City, who have finished bottom of the table, have had a difficult season off the field with the club almost going bust and concerns surrounding its future.
Truro are also without record goalscorer Stewart Yetton after he was suspended following an alleged fight with a team-mate last week.
"It's been a very difficult season and after that we'll sit down, take a deep breath and see what happens form there on," Hodges said.
"It's a really good standard to play at and we felt if we'd have had a competitive squad we would have done OK in the division.
"I think the boys are going to be sad that it is their last game in the division, but they'll try and go out and get the win for the travelling fans."
25 April 2013
One year ago - how things change
I was browsing through some images of last season and I came across this one - I was shocked. Just 12 months ago to this week, our last game was Dartford at home. How things change so quickly - six of the seven players featured have all departed! Double click on the image and see for yourself.
24 April 2013
Plymouth Argyle reject Home Park ground share approach from Truro City
Source: This is Plymouth
PLYMOUTH Argyle have rejected an approach to share Home Park with Truro City next season, Herald Sport understands.
However, the Pilgrims are open to other ways of working with Truro to the benefit of both clubs.
Truro, who have been relegated from the Football Conference South this season, are set to leave their Treyew Road home ground.
The Cornish club were rescued from administration last year by local businessmen Pete Masters and Philip Perryman.
However, the freehold of Treyew Road had already been sold, when Kevin Heaney – who tried to buy Argyle in 2011 – was Truro chairman.
London-based property development and investment company Helical Bar have an option to purchase the six-acre site.
That has led to Truro to trying to find a new ground to play at next season, although there are not thought to be any suitable alternatives nearby.
Truro approached Argyle about sharing Home Park and it was discussed at boardroom level.
An Argyle source told Herald Sport: "It was looked at quite seriously given the fact that Truro City are a fellow South West club.
"There was a great enthusiasm to support Truro but there was a concern it would impact on the quality of the pitch at Home Park.
"I'm sure the two clubs will work together in other ways."
Truro, who are managed by former Argyle midfielder Lee Hodges, played their penultimate game of the season at Eastleigh last night.
They end a campaign, which saw them deducted 10 points for entering administration, with a trip to Kent on Saturday to play Tonbridge Angels.
Peter Masters said:
"The ground share is not possible with Plymouth Argyle at this time and I respect James' decision and the reasons behind it.
That said, Truro City looks forward in strengthening their relationship with Argyle to both Clubs' mutual benefit.
Meanwhile, Philip and I continue our talks with other third parties to secure Truro City's future."
PLYMOUTH Argyle have rejected an approach to share Home Park with Truro City next season, Herald Sport understands.
However, the Pilgrims are open to other ways of working with Truro to the benefit of both clubs.
Truro, who have been relegated from the Football Conference South this season, are set to leave their Treyew Road home ground.
The Cornish club were rescued from administration last year by local businessmen Pete Masters and Philip Perryman.
London-based property development and investment company Helical Bar have an option to purchase the six-acre site.
That has led to Truro to trying to find a new ground to play at next season, although there are not thought to be any suitable alternatives nearby.
Truro approached Argyle about sharing Home Park and it was discussed at boardroom level.
An Argyle source told Herald Sport: "It was looked at quite seriously given the fact that Truro City are a fellow South West club.
"There was a great enthusiasm to support Truro but there was a concern it would impact on the quality of the pitch at Home Park.
"I'm sure the two clubs will work together in other ways."
Truro, who are managed by former Argyle midfielder Lee Hodges, played their penultimate game of the season at Eastleigh last night.
They end a campaign, which saw them deducted 10 points for entering administration, with a trip to Kent on Saturday to play Tonbridge Angels.
Peter Masters said:
"The ground share is not possible with Plymouth Argyle at this time and I respect James' decision and the reasons behind it.
That said, Truro City looks forward in strengthening their relationship with Argyle to both Clubs' mutual benefit.
Meanwhile, Philip and I continue our talks with other third parties to secure Truro City's future."
Jake Ash reaches the 300 Club
Well done to Jake who reached 300 appearances for Truro City at the Eastleigh game last night. Sadly he didn't get that elusive hat trick that he craves! And sadly the occasion wasn't marked with a win either (against probably the best club we've seen this season). As a consolation though, he did get a good smack in the eye while contesting a header. What more would you expect from our Captain Marvel? From all the Tisa boys, well done Jake on reaching the exclusive 300 Club.
Battling Truro unable to deny Eastleigh a play-offs place
By Rhod Mitchell West Briton LINK
(and special additional comments by Ivor Marshall aka Mountaineer)
Eastleigh 3 Truro City 1
A performance full of pride by City was not enough to prevent Eastleigh from completing the league double over the visitors and gain the win which clinched them a place in the end of season Blue Square South play-offs.
Travelling with just 13 fit players already relegated City kept going until the end before a crowd of more than 1,300, attracted by the offer of free entrance to the Silverlake Stadium.
While the home side deserved the win on the night, City did not throw in the towel in their penultimate game at this level.
Andy Watkins (ankle) returned to the bench though was not fit enough to come on.
It was also the 300th appearance for skipper Jake Ash, although his evening ended early after taking an accidental blow to the eye when contesting a header.
City had to be be thankful to keeper Paul Hider early on when he made a great save to keep out a Craig McAllister penalty after Paul Kendall was adjudged to have fouled Dale Binns.
But the Hampshire side did go ahead after 28 minutes with a superb strike by captain Glen Southam gave Hider no chance.
However, City hit back with an equaliser five minutes before the break when Barry Hayles intercepted a back pass and walked the ball into the net.
After the interval City had to ride their luck at times, as Eastleigh pushed hard to regain the lead, and it was not until 70 minutes they went 2-1 up when City failed to clear a free-kick and Damian Scammell made it 2-1.
Eight minutes later McAllister made the game safe, heading home a cross from Andy Forbes.
Although tired in the closing stages City refused to crumble and manager Lee Hodges was full of praise for his squad.
He said: "I was really pleased. We had to defend for long periods but we gave it a right go and stuck to our task."
City complete a troubled season at Tonbridge Angels on Saturday with the Kent side now safe from relegation after tonight's results.
They will be without Paul Kendall who starts a three match ban.
City: Hider; Washburn, Kendall, Ash (capt) (Watts 73), Williams; Cooke, Broad (Davey 86), Cooke, Copp; Hayles, Wright. Sub (not used): Watkins.
Crowd: 1320.
Mountaineer said:
Patched up like dads army city did themselves proud, players on the pitch carrying injuries and those replacing them also members of the limping brigade, except for young Connor Davey who was full of beans.
Martin Watts came on late replacing injured Joe Broad, Ben Williams played the whole game, Jake has a closed right eye, I hope he can see in time for Saturday. Joe Broad did 80 minutes tonight, after the game he said something like "Have to do 90 minutes on Saturday", that summed it up, the lads are regularly playing through the pain barrier.
For 70 minutes we were in the game, as normal the game changes when the opposition brings on fresh legs and tonight was no exception. Spider Hider did well getting down to the penalty, diving left and stopping it just inside the upright, I said at the game, it is a pity he can't spin an invisible web to stop the ball to keep clean sheets.
Eastleigh 3 (Southam 28, Scannell 70, McAllister 78 )
Truro City 1 (Hayles 40)
Att 1320
Even so at times we were heard offering our support from the sidelines.
Free entry meant it was their biggest attendance of the season and an opportunity for us to sing, you are only here to see Truro.
Another game despite the result where the lads gave us everything.
(and special additional comments by Ivor Marshall aka Mountaineer)
Eastleigh 3 Truro City 1
A performance full of pride by City was not enough to prevent Eastleigh from completing the league double over the visitors and gain the win which clinched them a place in the end of season Blue Square South play-offs.
Travelling with just 13 fit players already relegated City kept going until the end before a crowd of more than 1,300, attracted by the offer of free entrance to the Silverlake Stadium.
While the home side deserved the win on the night, City did not throw in the towel in their penultimate game at this level.
Manager Lee Hodges made one change from the team that drew with Farnborough on Saturday, with Ben Williams replacing Martin Watts (knee) at left back.
It was also the 300th appearance for skipper Jake Ash, although his evening ended early after taking an accidental blow to the eye when contesting a header.
City had to be be thankful to keeper Paul Hider early on when he made a great save to keep out a Craig McAllister penalty after Paul Kendall was adjudged to have fouled Dale Binns.
But the Hampshire side did go ahead after 28 minutes with a superb strike by captain Glen Southam gave Hider no chance.
However, City hit back with an equaliser five minutes before the break when Barry Hayles intercepted a back pass and walked the ball into the net.
After the interval City had to ride their luck at times, as Eastleigh pushed hard to regain the lead, and it was not until 70 minutes they went 2-1 up when City failed to clear a free-kick and Damian Scammell made it 2-1.
Eight minutes later McAllister made the game safe, heading home a cross from Andy Forbes.
Although tired in the closing stages City refused to crumble and manager Lee Hodges was full of praise for his squad.
He said: "I was really pleased. We had to defend for long periods but we gave it a right go and stuck to our task."
City complete a troubled season at Tonbridge Angels on Saturday with the Kent side now safe from relegation after tonight's results.
They will be without Paul Kendall who starts a three match ban.
City: Hider; Washburn, Kendall, Ash (capt) (Watts 73), Williams; Cooke, Broad (Davey 86), Cooke, Copp; Hayles, Wright. Sub (not used): Watkins.
Crowd: 1320.
Mountaineer said:
Patched up like dads army city did themselves proud, players on the pitch carrying injuries and those replacing them also members of the limping brigade, except for young Connor Davey who was full of beans.
Martin Watts came on late replacing injured Joe Broad, Ben Williams played the whole game, Jake has a closed right eye, I hope he can see in time for Saturday. Joe Broad did 80 minutes tonight, after the game he said something like "Have to do 90 minutes on Saturday", that summed it up, the lads are regularly playing through the pain barrier.
For 70 minutes we were in the game, as normal the game changes when the opposition brings on fresh legs and tonight was no exception. Spider Hider did well getting down to the penalty, diving left and stopping it just inside the upright, I said at the game, it is a pity he can't spin an invisible web to stop the ball to keep clean sheets.
Eastleigh 3 (Southam 28, Scannell 70, McAllister 78 )
Truro City 1 (Hayles 40)
Att 1320
Even so at times we were heard offering our support from the sidelines.
Free entry meant it was their biggest attendance of the season and an opportunity for us to sing, you are only here to see Truro.
Another game despite the result where the lads gave us everything.
23 April 2013
Truro Reserves v Helston KO time change
From Ian Rennie -
Kick-off for Truro City Reserves' match away to Helston Athletic on Monday, May 6, has been put back one hour from 11 am to 12 noon.
Kick-off for Truro City Reserves' match away to Helston Athletic on Monday, May 6, has been put back one hour from 11 am to 12 noon.
22 April 2013
J P Creba raises £400 for worthy charity
John Paul Creba, also known as JP, raised a very respectable £400 on Saturday. Club PA, Tracy Finnemore did the honours and cut his hair and beard off. Many were grateful though, as it was unclear if anything was skulking inside the six month growth. There was also some disquiet, that the event should have taken place outside the bar area, for hygiene reasons of course.... On a serious note though, Cornwall Hospice Care will be the main beneficiaries of the substantial fundraiser. Well done JP.
Before and after images below:
Before and after images below:
Farnborough's match report link plus Lee's view
MATCH REPORT HERE image by Steve Rogers
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| Barry's last home game for the super white's.
LEE'S VERDICT on Truro City 3 Farnborough 3: "We were brilliant for four minutes! After we'd scored those first two goals, we looked very much like a relegated team going through the end-of-season motions. We should have been dead and buried by half time, with Farnborough creating chance after chance.
"The second half was a little bit better for us; they didn't create as much and we created a bit more. Then Farnborough went 3-2 up and everyone thought that was it, but our boys showed great character and Paul Kendall came up with a great goal which he probably deserved."
LEE on the new signings: "I liked James Washburn (Torquay United) very much indeed; he did well and at only 18 shows a great deal of promise. And Connor Davey is definitely one for the future. He's only 16 and still at Penryn College. He's been with Plymouth Argyle and has been training with us for the past few weeks."
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21 April 2013
End of Season Awards for 2012/13 Season
End of season awards 2012-13
FIRST TEAM
Managers Player : Jake Ash
Players Player : Andy Watkins
Chairmans Player : was Les Afful
TISA player of the year : Andy Watkins
Special Awards :
presented to Graham Bond, Mark Brent, Diane and Paul Ward, Tom Trust and Tracey Finemore.
RESERVE TEAM
Managers Player : Scott Palmer
Players Player : Andy Van Evelingen
Young Player : Harry Evans
Photos to follow.
Kendall's late equaliser saves point for Truro City in final home game
By Rhod Mitchell, West Briton LINK Images by Steve Rogers.
Truro City 3 Farnborough 3
After an explosive start, which saw them go 2-0 up in less than four minutes, City were in the end grateful for a late Paul Kendall equaliser to claim a point from their final home Blue Square Bet South game of the season.
It had all looked so good for already relegated City, as Matt Wright got them off to the perfect start with his first goal for the club after just 75 seconds, when he ran onto a Les Afful long ball and found the far corner with an assured finish.
Wright, who was making only his second start, after coming in for the injured Andy Watkins, then doubled his tally two minutes later, pouncing on some poor Farnborough defending to force the ball home for City's second.
But the home side, who gave a debut to former Torquay United apprentice James Washburn (18) at right back, with 16-year-old Penryn College student Connor Davey on the bench, then seemed to stop playing.
And this allowed the visitors to take command and only some desperate defending and fine saves from Paul Hider preserved their advantage.
But it couldn't last and after 29 minutes Elvis Hammond slid home Phil Page's low cross from the left.
Farnborough were deservedly level after 38 minutes when the dangerous Dan Bennett set up Richard Peniket for the equaliser as City were fortunate to go into half time on level terms.
The second half was nowhere near as eventful, but Farnborough looked the more dangerous and with eight minutes left took the lead with a low shot from substitute Tom McGarry through a crowded area.
It looked all up for the home side, but Kendall gave them a point when he rose well to head into the far corner from a deep free-kick by Martin Watts.
It was the big defender's first goal for the club.
As the players left the field for the last time at Treyew Road this season they received great applause from the home fans, though how many of the squad will be back next season is still uncertain.
Truro City: Hider; Washburn, Ash, Kendall, Watts, Afful, Cooke, Broad (Williams 63), Copp (Davey 83); Hayles, Wright.
Farnborough: Ciardini; Huggins, Treacher, Inman, Bosch, Jones (Moody 80), Bennett, Laidler (capt), Hammond (McGarry 80), Peniket, Page (Tarpey 68).
Half time: 2-2.
Goals: Wright (2) 1-0, Wright (4) 2-0; Hammond (29) 1-2, Peniket (38) 2-2; McGarry (83) 2-3, Kendall (86) 3-3.
Referee: Paul Harris (Maidstone).
Crowd: 364.
Truro City 3 Farnborough 3
After an explosive start, which saw them go 2-0 up in less than four minutes, City were in the end grateful for a late Paul Kendall equaliser to claim a point from their final home Blue Square Bet South game of the season.
It had all looked so good for already relegated City, as Matt Wright got them off to the perfect start with his first goal for the club after just 75 seconds, when he ran onto a Les Afful long ball and found the far corner with an assured finish.
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| Les Afful volley's with style |
Wright, who was making only his second start, after coming in for the injured Andy Watkins, then doubled his tally two minutes later, pouncing on some poor Farnborough defending to force the ball home for City's second.
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| Matt Wright celebrations after his brace |
And this allowed the visitors to take command and only some desperate defending and fine saves from Paul Hider preserved their advantage.
But it couldn't last and after 29 minutes Elvis Hammond slid home Phil Page's low cross from the left.
Farnborough were deservedly level after 38 minutes when the dangerous Dan Bennett set up Richard Peniket for the equaliser as City were fortunate to go into half time on level terms.
The second half was nowhere near as eventful, but Farnborough looked the more dangerous and with eight minutes left took the lead with a low shot from substitute Tom McGarry through a crowded area.
It looked all up for the home side, but Kendall gave them a point when he rose well to head into the far corner from a deep free-kick by Martin Watts.
It was the big defender's first goal for the club.
As the players left the field for the last time at Treyew Road this season they received great applause from the home fans, though how many of the squad will be back next season is still uncertain.
Truro City: Hider; Washburn, Ash, Kendall, Watts, Afful, Cooke, Broad (Williams 63), Copp (Davey 83); Hayles, Wright.
Farnborough: Ciardini; Huggins, Treacher, Inman, Bosch, Jones (Moody 80), Bennett, Laidler (capt), Hammond (McGarry 80), Peniket, Page (Tarpey 68).
Half time: 2-2.
Goals: Wright (2) 1-0, Wright (4) 2-0; Hammond (29) 1-2, Peniket (38) 2-2; McGarry (83) 2-3, Kendall (86) 3-3.
Referee: Paul Harris (Maidstone).
Crowd: 364.
19 April 2013
Stewart Yetton suspended with immediate effect
News emerging tonight from Treyew Road will not be easy to digest. Club talisman and leading goal scorer Stewart Yetton was apparently involved in a training ground incident last night with defender Ben Gerring. It is believed that Gerring sustained a broken jaw and is awaiting treatment in hospital.
A statement issued tonight from Chairman Peter Masters read: "Following an internal incident it has been necessary to suspend Stewart Yetton with immediate effect.
"Given that there are only three games remaining, regretfully Stewart has played his last game for Truro City. Also Ben Gerring has sustained an injury and is unavailable tomorrow."
Futhermore, if the training ground bust-up was not enough, Yettsy is also rumoured to be joining Southern League outfit Weymouth Town this Summer.
Yettsy is the club's all-time record goal scorer with a massive 226 goals in 315 games. After returning from a long injury lay off this season, Stewart has already scored three goals in three games and made at least one assist. Single-handedly, he is one of the reasons for the club's late resurgence. This is indeed a very sad way to end a career at a club he clearly loved. For sure, he will be sorely missed.
17 April 2013
Entertainment at Treyew Road this Saturday, including Tracey Finnemore shaving a beard
This Saturday (20th) see's possibly the last home game for Truro City in the Blue Square Conference South.
There will be a lot going on including the long awaited beard shave of JP Creba at half time. Performed by no other than Tracey Finnemore. There will also be the usual presentations after the game.
Later in the evening we have live entertainment organised with The Sugar Bullets plus a disco.
It should be a day to remember as we continue our journey to the Promised Land.
Rayvon Jennings, Entertainments Organiser
There will be a lot going on including the long awaited beard shave of JP Creba at half time. Performed by no other than Tracey Finnemore. There will also be the usual presentations after the game.
Later in the evening we have live entertainment organised with The Sugar Bullets plus a disco.
It should be a day to remember as we continue our journey to the Promised Land.
Rayvon Jennings, Entertainments Organiser
Eastleigh open the gates in push for play-off position
Free entry for Truro Game on 23rd April
Source Official Eastleigh FC site:
"Eastleigh FC are pleased to announce that next Tuesday's game (23rd April) at home to Truro City FC will be free entry to all visitors.
We would like to thank everybody for their fantastic support this season and will hopefully get a large attendance next Tuesday as we continue to push for a ply-off position.
Kick off against Truro is at 7.45 pm so please invite as many as possible to give the team a fantastic support in our final home game of the season."
Yetton earns praise from Truro City boss (Non League Daily)
Truro City player-manager Lee Hodges praised strike ace Stewart Yetton for his part in the Cornish club's 2-1 Blue Square Bet South win at AFC Hornchurch.
Yetton, who opened the scoring at Bridge Avenue on Saturday with a goal in the 46th minute – has scored three times in as many games since his return from a five month injury lay-off.
Although the Urchins replied through Joe May five minutes later, former Plymouth Argyle striker Yetton played a major role in City's 62nd-minute winner, scored on the spin by clinical finisher Andy Watkins.
A delighted Hodges said: "They had a player sent off before half-time and had the better of the first half, with the wind and rain in their favour."
MORE...
Yetton, who opened the scoring at Bridge Avenue on Saturday with a goal in the 46th minute – has scored three times in as many games since his return from a five month injury lay-off.
Although the Urchins replied through Joe May five minutes later, former Plymouth Argyle striker Yetton played a major role in City's 62nd-minute winner, scored on the spin by clinical finisher Andy Watkins.
A delighted Hodges said: "They had a player sent off before half-time and had the better of the first half, with the wind and rain in their favour."
MORE...
15 April 2013
City Alerts - Lee Hodges' view on the Hornchurch game
LEE'S VERDICT on AFC Hornchurch 1 Truro City 2:
"We rode our luck a bit in the first half, when the strong wind was against us and we just could not get out of our own half. Hornchurch hit the woodwork several times, but then they had their best player sent off towards the end of that half.
"In the circumstances, I was happy with 0-0 at half-time and then we went ahead 22 seconds after the restart. We still got a little bit sloppy and we once again failed to do what we've been failing to do all season, which is to put the game to bed. We certainly had more than enough chances, but it wasn't to be.
But it was a nice result and a good reward for the all the hard work from the boys on a long day."
INJURY UPDATE: JORDAN COPP taken off at half-time as precautionary measure with tight hamstring, apparent before kick-off. Expected to be fit for Saturday.
REMAINING FIXTURES: Sat Apr 20, home to Farnborough, 3 pm; Tues Apr 23, away to Eastleigh, 7.45 pm; Sat Apr 27, away to Tonbridge Angels, 3pm.
Mike Truscott
"We rode our luck a bit in the first half, when the strong wind was against us and we just could not get out of our own half. Hornchurch hit the woodwork several times, but then they had their best player sent off towards the end of that half.
"In the circumstances, I was happy with 0-0 at half-time and then we went ahead 22 seconds after the restart. We still got a little bit sloppy and we once again failed to do what we've been failing to do all season, which is to put the game to bed. We certainly had more than enough chances, but it wasn't to be.
But it was a nice result and a good reward for the all the hard work from the boys on a long day."
INJURY UPDATE: JORDAN COPP taken off at half-time as precautionary measure with tight hamstring, apparent before kick-off. Expected to be fit for Saturday.
REMAINING FIXTURES: Sat Apr 20, home to Farnborough, 3 pm; Tues Apr 23, away to Eastleigh, 7.45 pm; Sat Apr 27, away to Tonbridge Angels, 3pm.
Mike Truscott
14 April 2013
AFC Hornchurch official match report
Source: courtesy AFC Hornchurch official site
AFC Hornchurch 1 vs. Truro City 2
On a very wet day, and with the pitch heavy following rain throughout the previous day, Hornchurch adapted better to the conditions and dominated the first thirty minutes.
The Truro defence was opened up in the first minute when Lewis Smith played a ball out to Chris Bourne, whose cross into the middle was deflected by Stewart Yetton for a corner. Joey May’s kick was partially cleared and the ball was played to Lewis Smith, who set out on a good run which ended with a shot which seemed to be a certain goal until Paul Hider made the first of many fine saves, although the keeper was fortunate when Wayne Gray followed up, but stroked the ball wide of the post.
Kieron St Aimie fired wide from a May free kick, and Hornchurch maintained the pressure, with Smith involved in most of the attacks.
Smith found himself with a good run at goal when he ran on to an Alex Bentley pass, but his shot was tipped on to the underside of the bar by Hider.
Smith next opened up the Truro defence to give Bourne a shooting chance, but the shot went too high and over the bar.
St Aimie was pulled down when going through, and May’s free kick drifted across goal and wide of the far post.
Wayne Gray created an opening for himself and ran through the defence, but was denied by another excellent save from Hider, who turned the shot around the post and then touched the corner from May over the bar for a follow up corner, which this time was sent across too low and was cleared comfortably.
Until now Truro had not been into the match as an attacking force, and the only time Joe Woolley touched the ball was to field a back header from Reiss Noel.
The match turned dramatically on 34 minutes when Lewis Smith was shown a straight red after a badly mistimed tackle on Barry Hayles, who was himself fortunate to remain on the pitch when he appeared to retaliate.
Truro continued to defend for the rest of the half, though Hornchurch could only manage two further corners, as they lost their midfield supremacy.
One minute into the second half and Truro went in front when STEWART YETTON headed home a high centre from the left.
Hornchurch continued to come forward, and drew level when Elliot Styles sent a pass through to JOEY MAY who scored with a well placed shot through a crowd of defenders.
And Hornchurch could have taken the lead when Chris Bourne ran through, only for his shot to cannon back off the bar.
Bourne almost broke through on the left but was tackled by Cody Cooke who turned the ball out for a corner.
Truro were given an opening when Alex Bentley slipped and this allowed Andy Watkins a clear run at goal, and Woolley was called into serious action for the first time, making an excellent save to turn the ball out for a corner.
Michael Spencer came on for Chris Bourne, and Truro took the lead soon afterwards when the ball was cleared from a corner up the field, was played back by Ben Gerring to ANDY WATKINS who ran on and neatly hit his shot past Woolley.
Truro now began to make the most of their one-player advantage, and Woolley saved from Watkins, turning the ball out for a corner, and then from Cody Cooke, again deflecting the shot wide.
When Rickie Hayles conceded a penalty, Woolley was again in action, diving to save the penalty from Marcus Martin, and then blocking Hayle’s follow up shot.
Tambeson Eyong replaced Wayne Gray, and Hornchurch threw everyone forward in an effort to equalize.
The closest they came was in stoppage time when a short from Frankie Curley came back off the bar, whilst with almost the final kick of the match Hider made another fine save, when he dived to turn a shot from St Aimie around the post.
Goals:
May 52.
Yetton 46, Watkins 62
Attendance: 282
Subs – Billy Coyne - James Love – Simon Glover
TC – Paul Hider – Stewart Yetton – Martin Watts – Ben Gerring – Paul Kendall – Jake Ash © - Jordan Copp (Cody Cooke at half time) – Marcus Martin (Joe Broad 83) – Barry Hayles – Andy Watkins – Les Afful
Subs – Ben Williams – Lee Hodges
Bookings – St Aimie 21 (TC) – Kendall 23 (TC) - Smith 34 (H) OFF – Yetton 72 (TC)
Officials – W Porter with E Clark and J Turner
Duration 47.19 + 48.14
Weather – 11 degrees, rain, wind speed 5 mph
11 April 2013
CVA Meeting for Friday 12th cancelled
Peter Masters has this afternoon announced via Twitter, that the CVA meeting to be held on Friday has been cancelled.
Peter Masters said: "Following late notifications from both Dilby Limited and the Conference League, the latter being received at 11.53am today, the company voluntary arrangement (CVA) has been withdrawn and will be amended and reissued at a later date."
"In the interest of the Club, Pep and I have decided to withdraw the CVA at this time for amendment. No alternative".
"It is unfortunate for all concerned, especially for Lee and the team who quite rightly want to know their position for next season."
Peter Masters later said " I would like to remind those opposing the CVA that the (Truro City) Football Club is there to benefit the community and not for individual gain."
******************
I spoke to Mr Masters at the Eastleigh game and I detected exasperation at the number of people willing to stick the knives in and how much hatred there was for the club. With the late notifications from Dilby and the Conference, one can only now appreciate what he was saying and sympathise with Pete and Pep. The amount of hard work and finance invested, only to be scuppered at the eleventh hour is soul destroying.
Just asking a question here, but why would the Conference wish to submit a late notification 24 hours before the meeting?
Steve Rogers.
Peter Masters said: "Following late notifications from both Dilby Limited and the Conference League, the latter being received at 11.53am today, the company voluntary arrangement (CVA) has been withdrawn and will be amended and reissued at a later date."
"In the interest of the Club, Pep and I have decided to withdraw the CVA at this time for amendment. No alternative".
"It is unfortunate for all concerned, especially for Lee and the team who quite rightly want to know their position for next season."
Peter Masters later said " I would like to remind those opposing the CVA that the (Truro City) Football Club is there to benefit the community and not for individual gain."
******************
I spoke to Mr Masters at the Eastleigh game and I detected exasperation at the number of people willing to stick the knives in and how much hatred there was for the club. With the late notifications from Dilby and the Conference, one can only now appreciate what he was saying and sympathise with Pete and Pep. The amount of hard work and finance invested, only to be scuppered at the eleventh hour is soul destroying.
Just asking a question here, but why would the Conference wish to submit a late notification 24 hours before the meeting?
Steve Rogers.
Truro City manager Lee Hodges happy despite Eastleigh defeat
Source BBC Sport
The loss extends already relegated Truro's winless run to five games.
"I thought we played ever so well, it was a really good team performance," Hodges told BBC Radio Cornwall.
"We lost two goals from about 25 yards out and whilst we're disappointed to concede we did create some chances against a big strong team who will be thereabouts come the end of the year."
The visitors took the lead through Jai Reason's early long-range strike.
They doubled their advantage when Craig McAllister pounced on a poor back header to round Truro goalkeeper Luke Payne.
Reason's sublime 25-yard lob made it three before Stewart Yetton made the most of a poor back pass to give the White Tigers a consolation.
"It's crazy how football turns out," Hodges added. "On Saturday I was bitterly disappointed with the draw against Eastbourne yet I'm pleased with last night's performance even though we lost."
Truro have four games remaining in a difficult Blue Square Bet South campaign that has seen them deducted 10 points for entering administration.
Truro City
manager Lee Hodges said he was happy with the performance of his team in the 3-1
defeat by Eastleigh.
"I thought we played ever so well, it was a really good team performance," Hodges told BBC Radio Cornwall.
"We lost two goals from about 25 yards out and whilst we're disappointed to concede we did create some chances against a big strong team who will be thereabouts come the end of the year."
The visitors took the lead through Jai Reason's early long-range strike.
They doubled their advantage when Craig McAllister pounced on a poor back header to round Truro goalkeeper Luke Payne.
Reason's sublime 25-yard lob made it three before Stewart Yetton made the most of a poor back pass to give the White Tigers a consolation.
"It's crazy how football turns out," Hodges added. "On Saturday I was bitterly disappointed with the draw against Eastbourne yet I'm pleased with last night's performance even though we lost."
Truro have four games remaining in a difficult Blue Square Bet South campaign that has seen them deducted 10 points for entering administration.
10 April 2013
Truro City Football Club threatened with a winding up order over "fabricated" debt claim
Source: This is Cornwall
THE girlfriend of Truro City Football Club's bankrupt former chairman has threatened to present a winding up petition against the club on Friday if an alleged £125,000 debt was not settled by this afternoon.
Kevin Heaney's partner Julia Sincock, who is a company director of Dilby Limited, said the firm was owed the fee for the usage of "all assets at Treyew Road".
In an email that was leaked to the West Briton, she wrote "to avoid unnecessary legal action against your client providing there is lease and payment agreed in the next 24 hours then as far as Dilby Limited concern it will be the end of this matter".
It adds: "If I do not hear from yourselves by 5pm today (Tuesday) I have been informed that contracted buyers' lawyers Charles Russell will issue a winding up petition against TCFC 2012 Limited which will be served at the creditors meeting on Friday 12 April 2013 at 11am."
When contacted by the West Briton Ms Sincock refused to comment.
Peter Masters, Truro City chairman, said the club owed Ms Sincock nothing.
He claimed: "I have a letter from Julia Sincock which is fabricated and it has got nothing to do with the club.
"It is not our problem, it's their problem. The debt is not ours.
"When we took over the club and whatever things were there, we bought and paid for it all.
"It is something to do with the previous liquidation, the club does not owe anything to Julia Sincock or Dilby."
Mr Heaney was made bankrupt on August 24 last year and stood down as chairman of the club.
THE girlfriend of Truro City Football Club's bankrupt former chairman has threatened to present a winding up petition against the club on Friday if an alleged £125,000 debt was not settled by this afternoon.
Kevin Heaney's partner Julia Sincock, who is a company director of Dilby Limited, said the firm was owed the fee for the usage of "all assets at Treyew Road".
It adds: "If I do not hear from yourselves by 5pm today (Tuesday) I have been informed that contracted buyers' lawyers Charles Russell will issue a winding up petition against TCFC 2012 Limited which will be served at the creditors meeting on Friday 12 April 2013 at 11am."
Peter Masters, Truro City chairman, said the club owed Ms Sincock nothing.
He claimed: "I have a letter from Julia Sincock which is fabricated and it has got nothing to do with the club.
"It is not our problem, it's their problem. The debt is not ours.
"When we took over the club and whatever things were there, we bought and paid for it all.
"It is something to do with the previous liquidation, the club does not owe anything to Julia Sincock or Dilby."
Mr Heaney was made bankrupt on August 24 last year and stood down as chairman of the club.
Truro City unable to half Eastleigh's play-off charge
By Rhod Mitchell, West Briton
Truro City 1 Eastleigh 3
City gave a good account of themselves against the accomplished play-off chasing visitors before going down to their 23rd Blue Square Bet South defeat of the season.
The already relegated Cornish side were undone by two classy goals from Jai Reason and a defensive mix-up, which allowed Eastleigh substitute Craig McAllister to score a crucial second goal after City had threatened an equaliser at the start of the second half.
The home side did manage a late consolation from Stewart Yetton, his 225th City goal, but it came too late to affect the result of a game, watched by just 201 - the lowest crowd of the season at Treyew Road.
Manager Lee Hodges started with the same team that was unlucky only to draw against Eastbourne Borough on Saturday, but City quickly went a goal down when Reason scored with a stunning 30-yard effort which gave Luke Payne no chance as it flew into the top corner.
City came closest to a first half equaliser when Les Afful forced Ross Flitney into a fine save, with Marcus Martin then shooting over when the ball ran loose.
And the home side began the second half strongly, pushing the Hampshire visitors back, with Andy Watkins forcing a smart save from Flitney.
But City were then undone after 66 mintes when Paul Kendall's attempted header back to Payne lacked pace, allowing McAllister, who had just come on for Corey King, the chance to round the City keeper and find the empty net.
It was a body blow for Truro, though if skipper Jake Ash had not headed straight at Flitney from Marcus Martin's free-kick they could have got back into the match.
Instead, ten minutes from time, Reason again showed his skill with a sublime chip over a stranded Payne to make the points safe for the visitors.
There was still time for Yetton to reward City's battling efforts when he collected an attempted back pass and kept his cool to round Flitney and find the net.
It was no more than City deserved for a whole hearted display against, what manager Lee Hodges rated as the best team to visit Treyew Road this season.
Truro City: Payne; Ash (capt), Gerring, Kendall, Williams; Afful (Cooke 73), Martin, Yetton, Copp; Watkins (Broad 68), Hayles. Subs (not used): Wright, Watts, Hodges.
Eastleigh: Flitney; Nelson, Lacey, Todd, Green, King (McAllister 61), Beckwith, Southam (capt), Binns (Watkins 68), Zebroski, Reason. Subs (not used): Peacock, Fountain, Dovey.
Yellow card: Green.
Half time: 0-1
Goals
: Reason (9) 0-1, McAllister (66) 0-2, Reason (80) 0-3; Yetton (75) 1-3.
Referee: Daniel Cook (Gosport).
Crowd: 201.
Truro City 1 Eastleigh 3
City gave a good account of themselves against the accomplished play-off chasing visitors before going down to their 23rd Blue Square Bet South defeat of the season.
The already relegated Cornish side were undone by two classy goals from Jai Reason and a defensive mix-up, which allowed Eastleigh substitute Craig McAllister to score a crucial second goal after City had threatened an equaliser at the start of the second half.
The home side did manage a late consolation from Stewart Yetton, his 225th City goal, but it came too late to affect the result of a game, watched by just 201 - the lowest crowd of the season at Treyew Road.
Manager Lee Hodges started with the same team that was unlucky only to draw against Eastbourne Borough on Saturday, but City quickly went a goal down when Reason scored with a stunning 30-yard effort which gave Luke Payne no chance as it flew into the top corner.
City came closest to a first half equaliser when Les Afful forced Ross Flitney into a fine save, with Marcus Martin then shooting over when the ball ran loose.
And the home side began the second half strongly, pushing the Hampshire visitors back, with Andy Watkins forcing a smart save from Flitney.
But City were then undone after 66 mintes when Paul Kendall's attempted header back to Payne lacked pace, allowing McAllister, who had just come on for Corey King, the chance to round the City keeper and find the empty net.
It was a body blow for Truro, though if skipper Jake Ash had not headed straight at Flitney from Marcus Martin's free-kick they could have got back into the match.
Instead, ten minutes from time, Reason again showed his skill with a sublime chip over a stranded Payne to make the points safe for the visitors.
There was still time for Yetton to reward City's battling efforts when he collected an attempted back pass and kept his cool to round Flitney and find the net.
It was no more than City deserved for a whole hearted display against, what manager Lee Hodges rated as the best team to visit Treyew Road this season.
Truro City: Payne; Ash (capt), Gerring, Kendall, Williams; Afful (Cooke 73), Martin, Yetton, Copp; Watkins (Broad 68), Hayles. Subs (not used): Wright, Watts, Hodges.
Eastleigh: Flitney; Nelson, Lacey, Todd, Green, King (McAllister 61), Beckwith, Southam (capt), Binns (Watkins 68), Zebroski, Reason. Subs (not used): Peacock, Fountain, Dovey.
Yellow card: Green.
Half time: 0-1
Goals
: Reason (9) 0-1, McAllister (66) 0-2, Reason (80) 0-3; Yetton (75) 1-3.Referee: Daniel Cook (Gosport).
Crowd: 201.
08 April 2013
Sunday Independent column by Mike Truscott
With relegation now confirmed, barring off-field events affecting other clubs, there is yet one more mini-drama to be played out at Truro City before the final curtain comes down on the club's turbulent season.
Will talsimanic Skipper Jake Ash make it to his 300th appearance for the White Tigers before April is out ? Before yesterday, he needed five more turnouts from six remaining games in 2012/13.
Provided he steers clear of injury, he should make it okay as it is inconceivable that player-manager Lee Hodges would drop him.
Most fans would regard it as unthinkable that Ash would not now make it to 300, even if he has to wait until next season - but that is entirely possible, given the present uncertainty over the club's short term direction.
With Truro still in Administration, the budget for next season's squad - and even whether or not legend-in-his-lifetime boss Lee Hodges will still be in charge - is anybody's guess.
For the moment, though, Ash will hopefully avoid emulating colleague Stewart Yetton's delayed action entry into City's 300 Club.
Yetton was within a whsiker of that 300 milestone when 2011/12 concluded - and then had to watch the opening games of this term from the sidelines after sustaining a pre-season injury.
Before yesterday's home match to Eastbourne, Yetton had 312 appearances to his name, with Joe Broad on 309, Andy Watkins and Marcus Martin on 291and 289 respectively.
Ash admits that he has found it "really difficult" to look at the Blue Square Bet South table this season - with City having been rooted to the bottom for most of the campaign.
He reflects: "It is doubly difficult, knowing that with the squad we had at the start of last season we would undoubtedly be challenging for the title this season - but we have to put things into perspective. We are still here, as a club, and that is of course the single most important thing".
Ash has been City's skipper for the past four seasons and, as well as playing in a variety of positions on the pitch, also impressed as spokesman and ambassador for the team when the club was on the brink of folding last Autumn.
By Mike Truscott,
Will talsimanic Skipper Jake Ash make it to his 300th appearance for the White Tigers before April is out ? Before yesterday, he needed five more turnouts from six remaining games in 2012/13.
Provided he steers clear of injury, he should make it okay as it is inconceivable that player-manager Lee Hodges would drop him.
Most fans would regard it as unthinkable that Ash would not now make it to 300, even if he has to wait until next season - but that is entirely possible, given the present uncertainty over the club's short term direction.
With Truro still in Administration, the budget for next season's squad - and even whether or not legend-in-his-lifetime boss Lee Hodges will still be in charge - is anybody's guess.
For the moment, though, Ash will hopefully avoid emulating colleague Stewart Yetton's delayed action entry into City's 300 Club.
Yetton was within a whsiker of that 300 milestone when 2011/12 concluded - and then had to watch the opening games of this term from the sidelines after sustaining a pre-season injury.
Before yesterday's home match to Eastbourne, Yetton had 312 appearances to his name, with Joe Broad on 309, Andy Watkins and Marcus Martin on 291and 289 respectively.
Ash admits that he has found it "really difficult" to look at the Blue Square Bet South table this season - with City having been rooted to the bottom for most of the campaign.
He reflects: "It is doubly difficult, knowing that with the squad we had at the start of last season we would undoubtedly be challenging for the title this season - but we have to put things into perspective. We are still here, as a club, and that is of course the single most important thing".
Ash has been City's skipper for the past four seasons and, as well as playing in a variety of positions on the pitch, also impressed as spokesman and ambassador for the team when the club was on the brink of folding last Autumn.
By Mike Truscott,
City Alerts - Lee's view on Eastbourne
LEE'S VERDICT on Truro City 2 Eastbourne Borough 2:
"It felt like a defeat more than a draw. There was no way we should have lost that match. We had done enough to win and it was so sloppy and disappointing to concede the equalizer in that fashion right at the death."
"The boys had worked ever so hard to take the lead twice and I felt we had defended extremely well. The two central defenders did really good and Ashy was brilliant before I think he ran out of legs a bit at the end. We had to change the left hand side when Ben Williams went off with a bit of a groin problem. I stuck Coppy there and he did all right."
TEAM NEWS for tomorrow's match at home to Eastleigh (sixth in League and handily placed for play-offs): BEN WILLIAMS (groin) expected to be fit. Checks on MARTIN WATTS (knee) and LEE HODGES (calf).
LEE ON EASTLEIGH: "They are a really good side full of very high quality players. I was saying as long ago as Christmas that I expected them to be in the play-offs even though they were third from bottom at that stage! We will have our work cut out tomorrow and there should be some good football on view."
By Mike Truscott.
**************************************************************
....and the Eastbourne review:
Lok grabs last gasp equaliser in the Far West
"It felt like a defeat more than a draw. There was no way we should have lost that match. We had done enough to win and it was so sloppy and disappointing to concede the equalizer in that fashion right at the death."
"The boys had worked ever so hard to take the lead twice and I felt we had defended extremely well. The two central defenders did really good and Ashy was brilliant before I think he ran out of legs a bit at the end. We had to change the left hand side when Ben Williams went off with a bit of a groin problem. I stuck Coppy there and he did all right."
TEAM NEWS for tomorrow's match at home to Eastleigh (sixth in League and handily placed for play-offs): BEN WILLIAMS (groin) expected to be fit. Checks on MARTIN WATTS (knee) and LEE HODGES (calf).
LEE ON EASTLEIGH: "They are a really good side full of very high quality players. I was saying as long ago as Christmas that I expected them to be in the play-offs even though they were third from bottom at that stage! We will have our work cut out tomorrow and there should be some good football on view."
By Mike Truscott.
**************************************************************
....and the Eastbourne review:
Lok grabs last gasp equaliser in the Far West
Second half goals from Ollie Rowes head and a late late strike from Darren Lok gave Boro a deserved 2-2 draw at Truro City. !!
07 April 2013
Truro City denied win by stoppage time goal as Martin sees red
By Rhod Mitchell, West Briton LINK
Truro City 2 Eastbourne Borough 2
City suffered yet more late heartbreak as they conceded a stoppage time equaliser to deny them what would have been a well merited win.
Goals by Stewart Yetton and Barry Hayles looked to have been enough to give already relegated City a morale boosting three Blue Square Bet South points.
But three minutes into added time they failed to deal with a long throw and Eastbourne substitute Darren Lok scuffed his shot past Luke Payne in the home goal.
And to make matters worse for City they then had Marcus Martin red carded following a midfield flare-up.
It was rough on the home side who looked the better team for much of the game against the East Sussex visitors who are involved in their own battle to stay up.
City went ahead after 17 minutes when a quick break from one end of the pitch to the other saw Yetton, who was making his first start for more than five months because of injury, finished well at the far post from a left wing cross by Watkins.
And Yetton was unlucky to make it 2-0 early in the second half when he had his effort cleared off the line after Eastbourne keeper Danny Potter had blocked his first effort.
Watkins and Hayles also went close to a crucial second goal before City conceded a sloppy equaliser after 67 minutes when Eastbourne skipper Ollie Rowe was allowed to head home unchallenged a corner.
But with ten minutes left Hayles looked to have won the game for City as he showed great strength and persistence to drive deep into the area before finishing well.
It was then a question whether City could hang on, but alas as has been too often the case this season they were unable to and had to settle for a point from a game they should have won.
And manager Lee Hodges said: "I am gutted. We deserved to win the game. I wish every game stopped after 90 minutes."
City: Payne, Ash (capt), Kendall, Gerring, Williams (Broad 73), Afful, Martin, Yetton (Wright 84), Copp, Watkins, Hayles. Subs (not used). Hodges.
Red card: Martin.
Yellow card: Williams
Eastbourne Borough: Potter, Adlesbury, Cole, Ehui (Raymond 60), Rowe (capt), Watts, Johnson, Aldred, Charles (Lok 80), Hart, Shepard.
Subs (not used): Fenwick, Smith, Uddin.
Yellow cards: Aldred, Hart, Potter, Adlesbury.
Half time: 1-0.
Goals: Yetton (17) 1-0, Rowe (67) 1-1, Hayles (80) 2-1; Lok 90 + 3 (2-2).
Referee: Ryan Atkin (London).
Crowd: 318.
********************************************************************************
Meanwhile on Twitter Stewart Yetton gave a strong indication that he may not be around at the end of the season, stating that the club "future would be bright in their hands" referring to Jake Ash and Jordan Copp. That said, Yettsy may not yet have been offered a contract? Who knows but one things is certain, Yetts will remain a Truro hero forever.
********************************************************************************
Official Truro City FC match report is now online and can be read HERE
Truro City 2 Eastbourne Borough 2
City suffered yet more late heartbreak as they conceded a stoppage time equaliser to deny them what would have been a well merited win.
Goals by Stewart Yetton and Barry Hayles looked to have been enough to give already relegated City a morale boosting three Blue Square Bet South points.
But three minutes into added time they failed to deal with a long throw and Eastbourne substitute Darren Lok scuffed his shot past Luke Payne in the home goal.
And to make matters worse for City they then had Marcus Martin red carded following a midfield flare-up.
It was rough on the home side who looked the better team for much of the game against the East Sussex visitors who are involved in their own battle to stay up.
City went ahead after 17 minutes when a quick break from one end of the pitch to the other saw Yetton, who was making his first start for more than five months because of injury, finished well at the far post from a left wing cross by Watkins.
And Yetton was unlucky to make it 2-0 early in the second half when he had his effort cleared off the line after Eastbourne keeper Danny Potter had blocked his first effort.
Watkins and Hayles also went close to a crucial second goal before City conceded a sloppy equaliser after 67 minutes when Eastbourne skipper Ollie Rowe was allowed to head home unchallenged a corner.
But with ten minutes left Hayles looked to have won the game for City as he showed great strength and persistence to drive deep into the area before finishing well.
It was then a question whether City could hang on, but alas as has been too often the case this season they were unable to and had to settle for a point from a game they should have won.
And manager Lee Hodges said: "I am gutted. We deserved to win the game. I wish every game stopped after 90 minutes."
City: Payne, Ash (capt), Kendall, Gerring, Williams (Broad 73), Afful, Martin, Yetton (Wright 84), Copp, Watkins, Hayles. Subs (not used). Hodges.
Red card: Martin.
Yellow card: Williams
Eastbourne Borough: Potter, Adlesbury, Cole, Ehui (Raymond 60), Rowe (capt), Watts, Johnson, Aldred, Charles (Lok 80), Hart, Shepard.
Subs (not used): Fenwick, Smith, Uddin.
Yellow cards: Aldred, Hart, Potter, Adlesbury.
Half time: 1-0.
Goals: Yetton (17) 1-0, Rowe (67) 1-1, Hayles (80) 2-1; Lok 90 + 3 (2-2).
Referee: Ryan Atkin (London).
Crowd: 318.
********************************************************************************
Meanwhile on Twitter Stewart Yetton gave a strong indication that he may not be around at the end of the season, stating that the club "future would be bright in their hands" referring to Jake Ash and Jordan Copp. That said, Yettsy may not yet have been offered a contract? Who knows but one things is certain, Yetts will remain a Truro hero forever.
********************************************************************************
Official Truro City FC match report is now online and can be read HERE
05 April 2013
Lee Hodges pays tribute to 'brilliant' fans
Source: BBC Sport LINK
The White Tigers were relegated after failing to beat Basingstoke Town on
Bank Holiday Monday.
The club have struggled on and off the pitch since entering administration last August.
"We'd like to thank the fans who have been brilliant, they've kept the club going," Hodges told BBC Radio Cornwall.
"They've put their hands in their pockets and we're thankful for what they do, I take my hat off to them."
Truro host Eastbourne Borough on Saturday, hoping to reverse the 1-0 defeat they suffered in November.
"We played very well down there earlier in the season and I came away wondering how we'd been beaten," Hodges added.
"They're not out of the mire yet and are still fighting a relegation battle, so they'll be wanting the points as much as we will.
"We just want to pick up as many points as possible, the boys should be proud of what they've achieved to get as many points as we have given the circumstances.
"It would be nice to finish off with a few more wins though, especially at home in front of our fans."
Truro City
manager Lee Hodges has paid tribute to the supporters who have stuck by the team
throughout a difficult season for the club.
The club have struggled on and off the pitch since entering administration last August.
"We'd like to thank the fans who have been brilliant, they've kept the club going," Hodges told BBC Radio Cornwall.
"They've put their hands in their pockets and we're thankful for what they do, I take my hat off to them."
Truro host Eastbourne Borough on Saturday, hoping to reverse the 1-0 defeat they suffered in November.
"We played very well down there earlier in the season and I came away wondering how we'd been beaten," Hodges added.
"They're not out of the mire yet and are still fighting a relegation battle, so they'll be wanting the points as much as we will.
"We just want to pick up as many points as possible, the boys should be proud of what they've achieved to get as many points as we have given the circumstances.
"It would be nice to finish off with a few more wins though, especially at home in front of our fans."
02 April 2013
Cornwall Senior Cup Replay
Not strictly for City fans, but many should be interested to learn that the Cornwall Senior Cup final replay between Helston and Bodmin, will be played at Treyew Road, Truro on Tuesday April 16. This has all the trappings of an entertaining evening.
TISA General Meeting Sat 6th April
There will be a General Meeting held at The Railway Club on Saturday 6th April, 12.30 pm. All members are welcome. This meeting is most likely the last before the AGM in the Summer so come along if you can. If you send apologies, Simon Birch will email you the agenda and the previous set of minutes. (Any prospective new members are welcome to join TISA at any time. Please speak to either Simon Birch or Dave Grimshaw for further details and an application form.)
Truro City's relegation confirmed after disputed late equaliser
By Rhod Mitchell, West Briton
Truro City 2 Basingstoke Town 2
City's two year stay in Blue Square South came to an end in controversial fashion at Treyew Road on Easter Monday.
Needing a win to have any remote hope of avoiding the drop, they were denied victory by a disputed late equaliser from the visitors.
Goals by Andy Watkins and skipper Jake Ash had put City 2-1 up with a quarter of an hour left, when Basingstoke's Delano Sam-Yorke seemed to handle the ball before finding the net with an accomplished finish.
But the goal was allowed to stand and that was how it stayed and City now cannot escape a place in the bottom three and relegation back to the Southern League, unless of course other off the field factors come into play.
It was tough on the home side, who have had to endure a traumatic season, though their fate has been inevitable for many weeks if not for much longer, as manager Lee Hodges admitted.
He said: "I think we probably knew what to expect even before the start of the season. But the main thing is that the club is still going.
"Full credit to the players they have kept fighting and it did not seem like relegation in the dressing room afterwards.
'Now we will try and get as many points as we can in our last six games."
On a bitterly cold afternoon at Treyew Road, with a swirling wind not making it any easier for both sides, much of the play was scrappy.
But it was City who broke the deadlock after 19 minutes when Watkins pounced on a loose ball to drill his shot low past former Torquay United keeper Ashley Bayes.
Stung by the reverse, Basingstoke came back strongly with the dangerous Sam-Yorke shooting wide before their equaliser came in rather bizarre fashion seven minutes before the interval.
Wes Daly swung in a free-kick from wide on the left and City keeper Luke Payne totally misjudged the flight of the ball as it caught up in the wind, getting caught in no man's land, and the ball drifted over his head and into the back of the net.
After the break there was little between the sides in the awkward conditions before Ash restored City's lead with a neat finish after the ball was flicked into his path.
Then came Sam-Yorke's disputed equaliser and it took a good save from Payne to deny Sam-Yorke a winner.
City: Payne; Cooke, Gerring, Kendall, Hodges (Yetton 66), Williams, Ash (capt), Martin (Broad 79), Copp, Watkins, Afful (Hayles 79). Sub (not used): Wright.
Yellow cards: Gerring, Ash.
Basingstoke Town: Bayes; Smart, Warner, Rice, Ray, Lake, Daly, Campbell (Dunn 68), Sills, Sam-Yorke, Williams (Holder-Spooner 82). Subs (not used): McAuley, Paterson, Ogunbote.
Yellow cards: Campbell, Sam-Yorke.
Half time: 1-1.
Goals: Watkins (19) 1-0, Daly (38) 1-1, Ash (63) 2-1, Sam-Yorke (75) 2-2.
Referee: Ashvin Degnarain (London).
Crowd: 385.
Truro City 2 Basingstoke Town 2
City's two year stay in Blue Square South came to an end in controversial fashion at Treyew Road on Easter Monday.
Needing a win to have any remote hope of avoiding the drop, they were denied victory by a disputed late equaliser from the visitors.
Goals by Andy Watkins and skipper Jake Ash had put City 2-1 up with a quarter of an hour left, when Basingstoke's Delano Sam-Yorke seemed to handle the ball before finding the net with an accomplished finish.
It was tough on the home side, who have had to endure a traumatic season, though their fate has been inevitable for many weeks if not for much longer, as manager Lee Hodges admitted.
He said: "I think we probably knew what to expect even before the start of the season. But the main thing is that the club is still going.
"Full credit to the players they have kept fighting and it did not seem like relegation in the dressing room afterwards.
'Now we will try and get as many points as we can in our last six games."
On a bitterly cold afternoon at Treyew Road, with a swirling wind not making it any easier for both sides, much of the play was scrappy.
But it was City who broke the deadlock after 19 minutes when Watkins pounced on a loose ball to drill his shot low past former Torquay United keeper Ashley Bayes.
Stung by the reverse, Basingstoke came back strongly with the dangerous Sam-Yorke shooting wide before their equaliser came in rather bizarre fashion seven minutes before the interval.
Wes Daly swung in a free-kick from wide on the left and City keeper Luke Payne totally misjudged the flight of the ball as it caught up in the wind, getting caught in no man's land, and the ball drifted over his head and into the back of the net.
After the break there was little between the sides in the awkward conditions before Ash restored City's lead with a neat finish after the ball was flicked into his path.
Then came Sam-Yorke's disputed equaliser and it took a good save from Payne to deny Sam-Yorke a winner.
City: Payne; Cooke, Gerring, Kendall, Hodges (Yetton 66), Williams, Ash (capt), Martin (Broad 79), Copp, Watkins, Afful (Hayles 79). Sub (not used): Wright.
Yellow cards: Gerring, Ash.
Basingstoke Town: Bayes; Smart, Warner, Rice, Ray, Lake, Daly, Campbell (Dunn 68), Sills, Sam-Yorke, Williams (Holder-Spooner 82). Subs (not used): McAuley, Paterson, Ogunbote.
Yellow cards: Campbell, Sam-Yorke.
Half time: 1-1.
Goals: Watkins (19) 1-0, Daly (38) 1-1, Ash (63) 2-1, Sam-Yorke (75) 2-2.
Referee: Ashvin Degnarain (London).
Crowd: 385.
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