WHAT A YEAR IT HAS BEEN

I’VE travelled far and wide to watch nearly 70 matches across the Non-League scene during 2023.

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From the far north of England to deepest Devon, I’ve had some great adventures along the way. Here are my top 10 highlights…

Hucknall Town 0-0 Clipstone Saturday, January 28, 2023 The RM Stadium, Hucknall United Counties League Division One Attendance: 325

An interesting trip to Hucknall Town’s newly opened £3 million stadium. I felt I was experiencing a match much higher up the Pyramid due to the excellent amenities and sizeable crowd in attendance for Step 6 football. It was good to see the club rebuilding at UCL level. Severe financial problems precipitated a tumble down the divisions from the National League North where they relished an FA Trophy Final appearance in 2005. But a bright future is in prospect now with prudent budgets in place.

Longwell Green Sports 5-3 Bishops Lydeard Saturday, March 25, 2023 Shellards Road, Longwell Green Western Football League Division One Attendance: 230

A massive personal milestone for me chalking up my 2,500 football ground visited. This hugely enjoyable undertaking has embraced 50 years of my life. Saturday, March 25 also coincided with Non-League Day – a praiseworthy initiative run by James Doe over the past 13 years thereby injecting thousands of pounds into the cash-strapped coffers of our football clubs.

Coton Green 0-2 Dudley Town Saturday, February 4, 2023 New Mill Lane, Fazeley Midland Football League Division One Attendance: 67