2nd July

FA Cup Away Daze For Doughboys

Wellingborough Town have been given the stiffest possible task in making progress in the FA Cup by being drawn away…for three consecutive rounds.

What the Doughboys will hope to be a mammoth cup sojourn begins on August 18 with a trip to Halstead Town, who last season were relegated to the Eastern Counties First Division after being bottom markers in the ECL Premier.

Should Wellingborough negotiate that hurdle, they face another trip down Essex way with a tie on September 1 at Waltham Forest of the Isthmian league Division One North - a division the Doughboys had hoped they might be invited to join after their path to the Southern League was blocked.

The reward on offer for overcoming a side who finished in eight spot and just five points outside a playoff place last season is a trip on September 15 to Wealdstone of the Isthmian League Premier. Older supporters will remember them for joining the Southern League with Wellingborough back in 1971/72 and in the late 60s hosted the Doughboys in the Bucks and Borders Cup.

However, Wellingborough have had better luck in the FA Vase, landing a home tie in the First Round on October 6 having been given a bye through the qualifying rounds due to their third-place finish in the UCL.

But who they will play is unclear, their opponents being the victors of ties involving Arlesey Athletic v Stanway Rovers and Hullbridge Sports v AFC Kempston Rovers.

_________________________________________________________

21st June

Busy Nick Completes Signing Number Four

One of the United Counties League's most outstanding - and tallest - defenders last season has joined Wellingborough Town's battle for promotion.

Giant centre back Luke Dowling, 28, hugely impressed at Northampton Spencer for the last two years and has become Nick Ashby's fourth signing of the summer.

Dowling, who stands 6 feet 5 inches, was arguably the best defender on show at the Dog and Duck last season when Spencer held out for an impressive 2-0 victory early on in the campaign.

However, he was out injured when the Doughboys gained sweet revenge with a remarkable 3-2 victory back at Spencer.

Last season Spencer boasted the second best defensive record in the UCL and Wellingborough's newest recruit is already looking forward to forming what he hopes will be a championship-winning partnership with fellow new-boy Rob Gould.

Said Dowling: "I came to Wellingborough because at 28 I am now reaching the peak of my career. And that means I want to be with a club which has clear plans to go and progress. I am at the point where I want to play at the highest level I can.

"I was thrilled when I discovered Gouldy had joined as well. They are the kind of guys you want to play alongside.

"I played at Rothwell when they were in the Southern League Premier. But I was young and never got a regular run in the team. When I was made their leading centre back the manager left and I moved on. So it'd be great to get back to that level again with the Doughboys."

With the addition of Dowling to 6 feet 3inch striker Richard Thompson and Gould it is obvious that the average height of the side will be increased dramatically to last season's.

And, despite his size, Dowling might add extra pace to the back as in his youth he was county 200m sprint champion.

However, he is likely to be slow out of the blocks for start of the season as he is scheduled to fly to Mauritius and Dubai on honeymoon with his bride-to-be Lauren just as the campaign begins.

Said Nick: "It's a bit unfortunate. But he'll get a full pre-season in with us. And it will be a bonus kicking off the campaign knowing that someone of Luke's stature can still to be added to the team."

_________________________________________________________

18th June

Nick's Double Delight As Two More Sign

The Doughboys have made two further major signings in their quest for the United Counties League title.

Boss Nick Ashby has again raided the Southern League Premier Division, this time to capture the hugely experienced centre back Rob Gould from play off semi finalists Hemel Hemstead Town.

But he has stayed within the UCL to find his new target man, capturing 6 foot 3 inch striker Richard Thompson from Blackstones where he struck 27 league and cup goals last season - including a sublime 25 yard curler at the Dog and Duck on the last day of the season.

Rob Gould

Gould, 32, a former captain of Kettering Town, is the second player this week electing to drop two divisions to join Wellingborough following the capture of Corby Town skipper Scott Goodwin.

Set piece specialist Gould, nephew of former Wales and Wimbledon manager Bobby and son of legendary Aylesbury United boss Trevor, has spent the last eight years playing in the Southern League Premier or Conference North. His former clubs include Raunds, Rothwell, Ilkeston, Tamworth, St Albans, Grantham - playing under Roger Ashby -  Kettering and Rugby Town.

Said Rob: "I've dropped two leagues because of what Nick told me about the club and what he wants to achieve at the Dog and Duck. He sold it to me.

"I've had a great time in football so far, and was with the Poppies when we lost in the Conference North play-off final a couple of years back. But I'm 32 and I've yet to pick up a champions medal so I have come here to try my best to get at least one of those.

"No-one can guarantee winning a league, but I was impressed by who Nick was bringing into the club, as well as many of the players already here. I want to give it everything I've got."

Meanwhile Richard Thompson - Tommo - is already looking forward to forging a little and large partnership with John Mitchell.

The former Wycombe Wanderers trainee showed at the Dog and Duck in May some of the neat touches that made him look a Football League prospect until a serious knee injury forced him out of the professional game.

But the 24-year-old has already tasted Southern League football with his home town team Stamford where he played alongside his new manager. And he wants to get back to that level again with the Doughboys.

Richard Thompson

Said Tommo: "Wellingborough really impressed me when we played them last season. It was obvious they had some very good players and I have come here for one very simple reason: I want to win the United Counties League.

"I got 27 goals last season, but only about seven of those was with my head. The service to me wasn't too good, to be honest. But here there are people like Tim Wooding who can deliver quality balls - the free kick he scored at Blackstones last season was simply brilliant.

"That's why I've come here. To play with good players and to win things. It's as simple as that."

Said Nick: "I'm very pleased to have got these two players on board - in very different ways they are exactly what I'm looking for.

"Rob Gould has an influence on and off the pitch. He's a classy defender with a massive heart and wins the ball. In the dressing room he'll get the lads going.

"Obviously our defensive record wasn't all what it might have been last season, so getting the heart of the defense sorted was a matter of priority for me. Also we needed to get players other than the strikers adding some goals, and I think Rob will be capable of that especially from set pieces. He played 40-odd times for Hemel last season. That shows he is still a Southern Premier standard player.

"Tommo fits the bill as a natural replacement for Darren Collins and with Scouse being a different kind of player they should set UCL defenses all kinds of problems next year. Although this doesn't mean we are going to play 90 minutes of direct football every Saturday - far from it."

The Doughboys hope to name at least one other new signing during the course of next week.

On Saturday many of the Doughboys players met up at the Dog and Duck as a team bonding exercise - as well as sign forms for next season and go for a run along The Embankment.

One of the first to return was winger Stevie Blackwood who missed much of the second half of the season with a knee ligament injury.

He said; "It was a good workout. I've not had any reaction with the knee for a little while now and there were no problems on the run today. I'm feeling pretty good."

Other team news included Mark Hewitt standing down as club captain. The name of the new skipper is likely to be announced towards the start of the league campaign. Also unveiled at the Dog and Duck was new goalkeeping coach Nick Verity.

And the Doughboys announced one other "signing" yesterday: Martin Goode as Acting Chairman. Martin had stood down last month but reprised his role earlier in the week when his successor Gary Chadwick was removed from the Executive Committee.

Said Martin: "Gary was unable to be as hands on as he had hoped and we were quickly aware there might be a problem. The Executive monitored the situation and moved swiftly and collectively to ensure that there was no disruption to the running of the club. It's business as usual!"

The Doughboys also hope to shortly announce details of season ticket prices now that it looks certain they will start the season in the UCL.

_________________________________________________________

15th June

Goodwin for Doughboys

Doughboys boss Nick Ashby today announced his first major signing for the new season with the capture of Corby Town skipper Scott Goodwin.

The 28-year-old left-sided midfielder has also captained Kettering Town and was Nick's prime target for the start of the 2007/08 season.

Goodwin had been seen as a key player for Wellingborough's expected move back into the Southern League. So Nick is thrilled to have got his man, even though it looks likely that the Doughboys will be kicking off the campiagn in the UCL.

Said Nick:"I've badly wanted to inject some creativity into our midfield and Scott will do exactly that. I want to attract quality players and Scott Goodwin is quality.
 
"He is tenacious, has a bit of the devil about him and will fight for the cause. Combine that with his very useful left foot and you have a player I am sure the supporters will love to see at the Dog and Duck."

Hull-born Goodwin began his career at Coventry City before moving on to Hereford, Canvey Island, Nuneaton and Kettering where he was released by Corby Town's new boss Kevin Wilson. His signing willbe seen as a coup for the Doughboys as Goodwin had been chased by other clubs.

Nick will be announcing further signings over the weekend and during next week. He added: "All the players I am going for will take the club that bit higher quality-wise. I initially targeted Scott to help us win the Southern League Midland Division. Now his job is to help us get into it."

_________________________________________________________

13th June

Smeathers Joins Bucks

Versatile defender Stuart Smeathers has left Wellingborough Town to join UCL rivals Long Buckby.

Smeathers joined the Doughboys last season from Brackley and put in some polished performances at both the full back and centre back positions. However, he missed the crucial run-in to the season through injury.

After first agreeing to stay at the Dog and Duck Smeathers changed his mind when the big spending Bucks came calling. And the move was confirmed when manager Nick Ashby refused to match the terms Smeathers had been offered.

He joins former Doughboys Kevin Slynn and Andy Peaks who last season also made the switch to Station Road.

_________________________________________________________

13th June

Doughboys Look for New Fixture as Enfield Fold

Wellingborough Town's crucial last friendly of the pre-season is in serious doubt with their opponents having appeared to have folded.

One time giants of the amateur and semi-professional game, Enfield, were scheduled to visit the Dog and Duck on August 4th - a week before the curtain is raised on the new UCL season.

But the former European Amateur Cup, FA Amateur Cup and FA Trophy Winners, who had also been Conference champions and seven times winners and nine times runners-up of the Isthmian League, had been troubled financially since quitting their famous Southbury Road ground.

Now it is understood that Enfield have folded, withdrawing from the Isthmian League. Although it is thought that there is a move to re-form the club and for them to enter at a lower level there has yet been no confirmation of when this will happen.

Now Doughboys officials are urgently looking for another fixture against a top side so Nick Ashby can get his players match fit for the start of the new campaign with a full pre-season programme under their belts.

_________________________________________________________

13th June

Good News For Fans Who Can't Stand Smoking

Non smoking Doughboys supporters will have an even more enjoyable experience at the Dog and Duck next season.

The club has decided to make the main stand completely non-smoking from July 1st.

On that date new legislation comes into force banning smoking in the work environment. As the law stands the main stand would have been exempt as the side paneling was not quite large enough to make the structure a contained area.

But non smoking signs will have to go up in Anne's Pantry and the burger bar. Signs will also go up in the clubhouse and dressing rooms, which are already non-smoking areas. Others structures where a ban will lawfully be in force is the press box and dugouts.

However the club's Executive decided to make the main stand a smoke free zone to add to supporters' comfort.

Said Executive Member Jim Murray: "The majority of people in this country don't smoke. And in keeping with the cultural swing towards non-smoking it made sense to designate a part of the Dog and Duck a smoke-free zone for supporters.

"The main stand is the logical choice. Because if you are standing watching the game and someone lights up and the smoke annoys you, you can move. That isn't so easy if you are already sitting with people on both sides of you, or with your children.

"If someone in the stand really must smoke during a game, there is nothing to stop them leaving their seats and standing by the perimeter fence.

"Having spoken to supporters with young families and those who simply can't stand smoking, I know the move will be welcomed by the vast majority of Wellingborough Town supporters."

_________________________________________________________

24th May

Martin Stands Down As New Acting Chairman Named

Wellingborough Town have unveiled their new Acting Chairman.

He is 35-year-old Gary Chadwick and has taken over from immediate effect the position held by Martin Goode, who steps down into the vice-chairman's role.

Gary, operations manager for the emergency communications company Airwave Services, and also the owner of a holiday business, has yet to see a Doughboys game.

He lives near Rugby and up until last Christmas was on the board at Unibond club Rossendale United. But he decided that he wanted to find a club closer to home and met Wellingborough's Executive Committee when he heard that the Doughboys were looking for new investors into the club.

Said Lancastrian Gary, who was once on the books of Colne Dynamoes: "I had three great years at Rossendale and was part of a team that turned a club around from having a £80,000 debt to one being £20,000 in the black.

"My skills are on the marketing side and I'm looking forward to the challenge of meeting local business people and getting them involved with Wellingborough Town FC. It's obvious that this club has enormous potential and I'll do all I can to help realize that.

"If we find someone who wants to come in and seriously invest, then I will gladly stand to one side. But it's important that I use some of the skills I acquired at Rossendale to help Wellingborough progress. I am looking forward towards the challenge immensely"

Martin Goode made it clear that he was not prepared to continue at the helm of the club. He said: "I always maintained that I would be acting chairman until the end of May at the latest. Now I can stand aside and give Gary a bit of extra time to find out what this club is all about and give him a chance to get things going. He's joined a fantastic club and I wish him every success."

Gary's first task will be to push for a promotion spot for the Doughboys following all the uncertainty surrounding the awarding of places in the Southern and Northern Premier Leagues.

He added: "The club has already begun exploring what avenues are open to us and I will pick up the baton and be contacting the various leagues and the FA to continue fighting our case."

_________________________________________________________

23rd May

Pre-Season Friendlies: First Fixtures Confirmed

The Doughboys have confirmed their first three pre-season friendlies for 2007/8 - with others in the pipeline.

At the moment Nick Ashby's men will start their pre-season with a trip to Surrey to meet Godalming Town of the Combined Counties League on Saturday 14th July, kick off 3pm. What is believed to be the first-ever fixture between the two clubs will be played at their superb training base within Charterhouse School.

A week later the first fixture at the Dog and Duck will again sees another Ashby family head-to-head when Nick's dad Roger brings Southern League Midland Division Champions Brackley into town.

This will be followed on the 28th with the visit of Shepshed Dynamo of the Unibond League.

Meanwhile, Rugby Town manager Billy Jeffrey has agreed to bring his Southern League Premier Division outfit to the Dog and Duck for a midweek fixture, the date of which is still being arranged.

_________________________________________________________

21st May

Promotion Latest: Clubs' Merger Gives Doughboys Renewed Hope

Doughboys boss Nick Ashby is keeping his fingers crossed Wellingborough Town will be promoted after all.

A week ago the Doughboys were shocked to discover they had not been included in the line-up for higher tier football. But last Friday came the surprise news that Nationwide South clubs Hayes and Yeading are to merge and with it came renewed hope that there will be Southern League football at the Dog and Duck next season.

Because a very possible knock-on effect of the merger is that Weston Super Mare will be reprieved from relegation from the Conference South, which in turn could mean Cirencester keep their place in the Southern League Premier Division….leaving a position to fill in the Southern League Midland Division.

Said Nick: "Seeing how we were apparently placed in the Southern League last Monday morning when the Leagues Committee first drew up their plans - though by the evening we were out of it because of events elsewhere - it would be justice for us to hear from the FA that we have been promoted into it after all.

"Let's face it. We have Southern League crowds and a Southern League ground. And, I'm pretty certain, a team good enough to do very well in that division.

"When I heard we hadn't got in it was one of the worst moments of my football career - either as player or manager.

"To be honest with you, if we don't get a place in the Southern League then I want us to join the Unibond Northern Premier set up, now they have a new Midland Division.

"Wellingborough Town's Executive Committee have shown great foresight in voting in favour of joining the Northern Premier if the Southern League is blocked to us. But so far we haven't officially heard from the FA, so we are waiting until we hear something before sending them a letter to that effect.

"I know some people will think - wow, that's a lot of traveling. But when I was at Stamford and the Southern League was split east/west we had to travel all the way to Newport Isle of Wight, Bashley, Dorchester, Hastings, Ashford, Folkestone and places like that, probably further than any town we'll be asked to go to. So it's not as bad as it first appears - in fact we used to enjoy the trips. And those kind of trips help supporters and clubs bond together. It's very much a shared experience.

"But first and foremost I want to be involved in Southern League football next season. It was what we spent the entire season chasing and it would be absolutely right if that is what we achieved. We certainly deserve it after all the worry and disappointment we have gone through."

_________________________________________________________

16th May

Supporters Invited To Saturday Night Party at Dog and Duck

Doughboys supporters will have the chance to discuss the latest developments at the Dog and Duck over a post cup final pint this Saturday.

The club bar will be opened for a Supporters' End of Season Gathering starting at 7.30pm, where a buffet will be provided.

Organiser Paul Wallace said: "It's important for Wellingborough fans to keep in touch and have an enjoyable evening where they can discuss all things Doughboys - and the Cup Final, of course."

The event is NOT by ticket and friends and family of supporters will all be welcomed.

_________________________________________________________

16th May

Doughoys' Delight as Mitchell Signing Completes Full Set

Prolific marksman Jon Mitchell last night put pen to paper and signed for The Doughboys for another year.

The signing is a coup for boss Nick Ashby who had to fight off the interest of other clubs to retain Wellingborough's talismanic striker.

Said Nick: "After the disappointment of hearing the FA's decision in not promoting us, this was just the shot in the arm the club needed.

"Scouse loves it here, we love having him here and it was important to my team building plans that he wears a Wellingborough shirt next season."

The confirmation of Mitchell staying at Wellingborough means that all last season's squad, barring new Cogenhoe boss Darren Collins, have agreed to play at the Dog and Duck next season.

But that does not mean Nick will be putting his feet up. He said: "Between now and August I will be looking to bring one or two more quality players into this club. Some may not come because at the moment we are not a Southern League club. But despite the knockback I will still be working flat out to create a side better than last year's."

Meanwhile club officials are still awaiting a letter from the FA officially confirming that they have been denied entry into the Southern League.

_________________________________________________________

30th April

Doughboys 1 Blackstones 1: Mitchell to the Rescue as Doughboys say Goodbye

Less than two inches stood between a draw and the most romantic conclusion possible to Wellingborough Town's season.

Deep into injury time Tim Wooding delivered a precision-drilled corner to the near post in the area where a goalkeeper dare not go and ghosting in Darren Collins met the ball perfectly.

His reaction of arms in the air in celebration to head in his hands and ill-disguised disbelief said it all as his bullet header somehow cleared the bar.

The final whistle blew before the resulting goal kick was taken and the perfect ending to Collins' superb single-season career at the Dog and Duck had been denied by the very narrowest of margins.

Had he grabbed the winner, the goal would have been a microcosm of the campaign. It would be no folly to say that at least 60% of Collins' goals had been supplied from the unerring right foot of Wooding.

And it would also be fair to say that until Collins' late call up from the substitutes' bench - a move that generated warm applause from the Dog and Duck faithful - the Doughboys, a goal down to a physical yet impressive Blackstones side, looked as though they had punched themselves out.

But within seconds of his arrival he was barking orders to his hitherto silent team-mates and telling them to up their game. They immediately responded.

They won a series of free kicks, all to no avail. But in the 88th minute, with the visitor's ultra-efficient offside trap refusing to be breeched, a long ball out of the Wellingborough defence was inadvertently helped on by a Blackstones defender and Jon Mitchell ran through to lob home the 88th minute equaliser.

Pandemonium ensued as Blackstones raged at the referee for over-ruling the linesman who had immediately flagged for offside. The referee told him he thought Mitchell was on when the ball was first played through and the goal was good.

The referee was again surrounded by players and coaching staff when the final whistle sounded - testament to how much it means for a UCL club to beat Wellingborough, even in an end of season game with nothing other than pride at stake.

By contrast there was no disputing the Blackstones goal, which had arrived in the 20th minute. Keeper Ian Flavell's long punt downfield was sublimely controlled by Richard Thompson wide on the Doughboys' right. As the home defence stood off and admired his handiwork, he darted inside before curling an unstoppable right-footed shot from 25 yards which left John Hughes with no chance.

Until then the Blackstones goal had been under siege and the Doughboys should have been at least three goals ahead, Mitchell being culprit-in-chief in an awesome display of profligacy. And even after the Stamford club took the lead against the run of play, the Doughboys continued to squander chance after chance, the worst miss of all coming from Adam Hancock who contrived to blaze over from two yards with the entire open goal at his mercy.

However, in the second period the Doughboys lost their way and as they became more stretched the visitors themselves squandered gilt-edged chances to make the game safe. Though had Wellingborough lost what they hope will be their final UCL game an injustice would have been served.

Then Collins appeared. And for ten minutes the Wellingborough crowd were shown exactly what they had been missing these past months.

It was also underscored what boss Nick Ashby already knew: that top of his pre-season shopping list must come a quality target man to make the most of Wooding's supreme right boot, and take the pressure off Mitchell.

The trouble is, the likes of Collins don't come round very often. Even so the calibre of who the replacement will be is likely to depend on the FA's decision on May 14th as to whether Southern League Football will be played next season at the Dog and Duck.

On this season's showing, it certainly deserves to be.

_________________________________________________________

26th April

Doughboys V Blackstones: The Final Chapter of a Promising Season

The Doughboys bring the season's curtain down at home to Blackstones on Saturday looking for all three points in what they hope will be their final UCL fixture.

 

Potton's failure to gain maximum points at Holbeach last weekend ensured a third-placed finish for Wellingborough whose Dog and Duck ground has been passed fit for promotion back to the Southern League.

 

Now club officials are awaiting confirmation that a top three finish is good enough for promotion up to the re-vamped level four of non-league football, with an extra "Midland" division being added to the Northern Premier League.

 

And if it is to be the Doughboy's final UCL fixture then they hope to bow out in style.

 

Darren Collins is back in the squad following an ankle injury and he is expected to play at least part of the game as a farewell to the club having agreed to a return Cogenhoe to become player-manager for next season.

 

Collins, who has notched 25 goals for the club since his summer signing from Cogenhoe, is guaranteed an emotional farewell from the fans who have been treated to a master class of cunning from the 39-year-old striker.

 

Also in the squad are midfielders David Glass and Matthew Green, both of whom are hoping to have shaken off knocks. Meanwhile winger Stevie Blackwood has resumed training but has left his comeback to late to play Saturday.

 

Adam Randall, fresh from his County under 18 success over Staffordshire - having scored two goals - retains his place in the squad.

 

Said Dougboys manager Nick Ashby: "It's been a pretty good season and we really do want to end it on a winning note. We want the supporters to enjoy themselves and get behind the team...and they have done all season. They've been brilliant.

 

"It'll be sad to see Darren say goodbye. But that happens in football and its a part of the game. But at least the supporters will get one last chance to say thanks - as will the lads.

 

"Whatever happens Saturday we all sense that it has been a long time since this old club has had quite so much to cheer about or, with the real possibility of Southern League football next season, so much to look forward to.

 

"Hopefully it'll be a great day for everyone. And I hope the regulars brings a few mates down and some family to swell the attendance. We may not have won the league, but the lads have done really well this season and there is still much to celebrate."  

_________________________________________________________

22th April

Darren Collins Says Yes to Cogenhoe

The Doughboys' veteran striker Darren Collins is leaving the Dog and Duck to take over as player-manager of Cogenhoe United.

Darren, 39, was one of Nick Ashby's first signings during the summer. And after netting 25 times for Wellingborough this season - 22 in the League - as the club clinched a top three finish, he was easily one of the most important.

However a persistent ankle injury restricted his appearances towards the end of the season and his final goals for the club were scored in the Doughboys' 5-2 victory at Boston way back on March 3rd.

Despite the disappointing news, Nick was the first to pay tribute to his former Rushden and Diamonds team-mate: "Darren did everything we asked of him. He can leave with his head held high as he did a wonderful job for us. In fact, I wanted Daz to be with us next season, irrespective of what league we play in…and the fact he turns 40 later this year."

Darren came to prominence in the Football League with Northampton Town before re-writing the goalscoring records at Rushden and Diamonds as the Nene Park club made their way up the leagues. And more recently he was a prolific scorer at Cogenhoe, helping them to a UCL title.

At Wellingborough he formed a special partnership with Jonathan Mitchell and many of his goals this season came from his head, often by dropping off the shoulder of his marker and finding space to deadly effect.

And he was also a big influence on the younger players around him, taking time out to talk to them during games.

But his decision to go into management will come as a surprise to many, as he had insisted that once he hung up his boots he would walk away from football.

However in recent games Darren had taken the training and occupied the dugout at Nick Ashby's request while assistant manager Les Hornby had been away.

Added Nick: "Darren has had some major ankle problems. But he told me that if we needed that point to finish third he would make himself available.

"At the moment though, I don't know if he is already manager of Cogenhoe as I haven't spoken to him yet. My understanding will be that he will start there next season. If he wants to spend next Saturday with them - as we don't need that point - I'll understand that.

"But, personally, I hope he turns up for the Blackstones game so the supporters and players can say their goodbyes to him properly. We will all want to thank him for what he has done and wish him every success at Cogenhoe."
_________________________________________________________

20th April

Doughboys Reserves Continue on Promotion Trail at Higham

With the Doughboys bereft of first team action this weekend, the focus falls on the Reserves as they step up their bid for promotion with a trip to Higham tomorrow.

Steve Kirchen's side have amassed 15 of the last 18 points available, a run that has taken them up to fourth place in the reserve division and with a chance of finishing the season runners-up.

Club officials are hoping that Doughboys supporters make the short journey to Higham to seen Ryan Grant, a recent capture from Rugby Town, make his debut in goal while Alfie Taylor and skipper Adam Randall continue their development that has seen them both achieve first team football this season.

The reserves will be without Adam Hancock, whose goal-scoring exploits has now make him an important part of the first team set-up while Darren Collins fights to overcome an ankle injury.

Wellingborough Reserves: Grant, Matthews, Vigo, Hackett, Codner, Taylor, Haycock, Randall (capt), Harrison M, Houghton, Harrison N. Subs: Johnson, Lee, Garafoli.

The second string continue their promotion push at Peterborough North Star on Tuesday and finish their programme on Thursday when they visit Huntingdon Town.

Meanwhile first team boss Nick Ashby and his squad will be keeping a close eye on the score at Holbeach tomorrow, where Potton must win to retain any hope of pipping the Doughboys to third spot in the UCL.

_________________________________________________________

16th April

Handy Hancock Points the Way

Wellingborough Town 3 Buckingham Town 1

The Doughboys find themselves just a point away from a third-place finish following Adam Hancock's Dog and Duck double.

His superbly executed brace was enough to see off a dogged if doomed Buckingham side who at no stage looked like finding their first league win since October.

It was a comprehensive victory for Wellingborough. But yet again they made heavy weather of it and at times looked a side jaded after a long season.

Since the turn of the new year the Doughboys have been missing key personnel for long periods, with Darren Collins, Jon Mitchell, Stevie Blackwood and Tim Wooding all absent for major stretches. Consequently, the fluidity that came so naturally earlier in the campaign has sometimes been missing and again there was evidence of it here.

Even so, the Doughboys had more than enough in reserve to reach the interval two goals to the good.

The scoring had been started by Adam Hancock, deputising for the injured Collins and included in the starting line up not least to give some aerial threat that had been so conspicuous by its absence at St Ives in midweek.

Having found the goal trail in the reserves, he carried on his good form when, in the 29th minute, he was the first to respond when the Buckingham keeper spilled Luke Pritchard's excellent far-post cross while under pressure and stabbed home from short range.

The lead was extended six minutes later when Mitchell, hitherto out-of-sorts, finally found his golden touch when he superbly turned his marker to fire home left footed from 12 yards.

The visiting Robins must have surprised even themselves when their right winger burst through from the half way line, beating all defenders before him. Having done the hard part he somehow shot against the post from three yards, but the dazzled defence were caught napping again as Darrell Elliott pounced to score from the rebound.

But Hancock wrapped the game up for the Doughboys in spectacular fashion, driving a sublime right footed half volley home from 30 years and close to the main stand to all but ensure a third-placed finish for Wellingborough thanks to Potton being held for a draw at Raunds.

Potton now need to win all their four remaining games to force the Doughboys into requiring a point from their final fixture at home to Blackstones in two weeks time.

Until then Nick Ashby's battle-weary squad are under orders to rest and come out guns blazing should that final point be needed.

PICTURES

_________________________________________________________

12th April

Doughboys v Buckingham: Nick Hopes to Benefit from Forward Thinking

Winger David Glass will be taking a late fitness test before tomorrow's home encounter with bottom markers Buckingham as Nick Ashby plans for an afternoon of attack.

The Doughboys will be looking to make amends for the two points dropped at Buckingham three weeks ago in the shock goal-less draw against a side that looks destined to finish bottom of the UCL pile.

Nick reports no fresh injury worries after the midweek defeat at St Ives and will be starting with Jed Ainge in midfield, after resting him for all but four minutes of Wednesday night's game.

Adam Randall who made his first team debut at left back, and who scored twice in the Reserves' 4-2 victory at St Ives a night later, retains his place in the squad.

Definately ruled out is Darren Collins (ankle) and Stuart Smeathers (knee). A scan has revealed that Smeathers will need a cartilage operation and will not play again this season.

Said Nick: "Whilst it was very disappointing to lose at St Ives, it is a major blessing that we got away without any further injuries. The pitch was an accident waiting to happen.

"We know we need to secure third place so we should have a good atmosphere at the Dog and Duck and we want to give the crowd something to shout about with some attacking football."

If fourth-placed Potton drop no further points this season, The Doughboys require wins from their two remaining home games to guarantee a top three finish - and boost their chances of promotion to the Southern League.
_________________________________________________________

12th April

Freak Goals Fiasco As Doughboys Lose Two on the Bounce

St Ives 2 Wellingborough Town 1

Two freak goals from St Ives condemned Wellingborough to a second defeat in three days as the Doughboys continued their stutter to the finishing line.

Only news from nearby Potton that Deeping Rangers had held them to a 1-1 draw gave supporters any cheer on a bizarre night at Westwood Road. For it means victories from their remaining two games - at home to Buckingham and Blackstones - will ensure Wellingborough third spot in the UCL and possible promotion.

But this was another game the Doughboys will be wondering how on earth they conspired to lose after dominating for long periods. And brought a disappointing denouement to their away campaign, having until Monday lost just two of their 19 matches on their travels. The defeat also guaranteed Boston the Runners-Up title should Deeping go to be crowned Champions.

However a win on the crazy-paving surface of Westwood Road would have meant that victory against bottom markers Buckingham at the Dog and Duck on Saturday would have given the Doughboys their vital top three finish.

So much for ifs, whats and might-have-beens. Because for all Wellingborough's huff and puff, and there was plenty of it, in truth it was St Ives who always looked the more dangerous, restricting their attacks to speedy breakaway raids. Disappointingly for Wellingborough there was not a single shot from midfield all night and neither of the diminutive front pairing of Mike Sneddon and Jon Mitchell, who both struggled for a sure touch in the bobbly conditions, looked anywhere near their best.

And so injury ravaged were Wellingborough, only six of their starting line up began the game which they so easily dominated against St Ives just eleven days ago in the 3-1 win at the Dog and Duck.

With the tired Jed Ainge rested after a series of whole-hearted performaces, Luke Pritchard preferred in place of Alfie Taylor and Adam Randall making his debut at left back this was an unfamiliar Wellingborough side and one that, for all its attacking play rarely troubled home keeper Rob Mackney.

Indeed, the St Ives custodian, who had looked so ill-at-ease at the Dog and Duck, was forced into only two saves all game. And both came in the first half, the first from an unexpected source with Randall's over-hit cross taking a wicked bounce off the rock-hard pitch and nearly embarrassing Mackney.

The second was from Sneddon who completed the one outstanding move of the half, when three Doughboys players combined down the left to set up the opening but the striker failed to connect as sweetly as he wished.

But a better chance fell to Mitchell who, throughout, rarely looked the trademark livewire that had scored such a superb hat-trick against the Cambridgeshire side just days earlier. What proved to be his only attempt of the game came when he found himself unmarked at the back post but, uncharacteristically, completely failed to connect.

St Ives had themselves come close when a powerful header was superbly cleared off the line by Pritchard. But there was no sign of danger  when, in the 42nd minute, Dan Newman pumped a hopeful ball forward from well inside his own half. However, John Hughes - just as his opposite number had almost done - completely  mis-read the massive bounce and, back-peddling furiously, could only get a palm to the ball as it sailed over his head and into the net.

The pitch, concrete hard and pock-marked - easily the worst the Doughboys had played on all season - was never going to allow free-flowing football and the second half continued to be a scrap. However, St Ives could consider themselves unlucky when, with the second period only seven minutes old, Newman himself discovered the vagaries of the surface as the ball flew up onto his hand for a harsh penalty. Tim Wooding dutifully tucked the ball beautifully into the  keeper's bottom right-hand corner for his tenth goal of the season.

With Jamie Lister excelling on the left, and ably supported by the steady Randall, The Doughboys continued to have all the play….but  the Saints the chances. And with just five minutes remaining there again appeared to be no hint of danger when Stewart Marshall rose unchallenged to head away a cross. But instead of opting for distance, his powerful downward header cannoned off the feet of Matt Green some 12 yards away. The ball could have gone anywhere, but flew past three Doughboys defenders and directly into the path of St Ives' one man up front, Chris Ewles, who could not believe his luck and steered the ball past  the startled Hughes with aplomb.

It was, quite simply, one of those nights.

PICTURES
_________________________________________________________

11th April

St Ives v Doughboys: Four missing as Wooding and Marshall return

Injury-hit Wellingborough Town travel to St Ives tonight looking for the win that could help secure a third place finish in the UCL.

Darren Collins, Stuart Smeathers, David Glass and Mark Hewitt will all be missing after taking knocks during Saturday's 2-1 surprise defeat at Raunds.

But the Doughboys welcome back both Tim Wooding and Stewart Marshall to the starting line up and there is also a squad call up for defender Adam Randall who impressed when playing alongside first team members at Eynesbury last week.

Collins has taken another knock to his troublesome ankle and the rock-hard Kiln Park pitch also contributed to Smeathers' knee ligament problems. The in form defender will be travel to Nottingham Forest's City Ground tomorrow for an assessment of the damage.

It now also looks as though talented right winger Stevie Blackwood will not be able to recover from his knee ligament injury in time to contribute to the Doughboys promotion push this season.

Mike Sneddon will start the game upfront alongside Jon Mitchell as the Doughboys look to re-find the form which helped them to a comfortable 3-1 victory over the Saints eleven days ago.

Just along the road from St Ives at fourth-placed Potton, Deeping can also help the Doughboys to finish in a potential promotion spot. Rangers require two more wins to lift the UCL title but face a Potton United side enjoying their best run of form of the season, and who gained a 1-1 draw at Deeping two weeks ago.
_________________________________________________________

11th April

Jones the Shot-stopper helps Slay Doughboys

Raunds Town 2 Wellingborough Town 1

Former Doughboy Chris Jones stunned his old club with a superlative goalkeeping display to inspire Raunds to a last-gasp victory over their promotion-chasing neighbours.

His heroics between the sticks had appeared to do enough to restrict Wellingborough to a draw against their rivals from up the A45.

But then Adam Taylor seized on one of the few attacks the Shopmates had mounted in the second half to nick the winner deep into extra time. The Doughboys barely had time to kick off before the final whistle sounded.

The defeat all but hammered the final nail in the coffin of any aspirations Wellingborugh may have held of catching Boston Town and seizing the UCL Runners-Up spot.

It was a listless performance by the Doughboys who had failed to sparkle at any time in the first half and deservedly fell behind to Taylor's 25th minute opener. The Doughboys defense, which had looked so sound in recent weeks, fell asleep at a free kick and allowed the Raunds top scorer all the space he needed to head home Daniel Thompson's cross.

And although Wellingborough dominated for almost the entire second half, they still badly missed a cutting edge and were constantly let down by a poor final ball. And when they did manage to break through they found Jones in outstanding form, singling out Jed Ainge as his main victim by saving from him time and again.

So it was no little surprise then when the Doughboys did equalize it needed a penalty to end Jones' resistance. Jon Mitchell was felled by Ashley Smith with ten minutes remaining and Tim Wooding, a second half substitute, stepped up to coolly equalize.

And although Wellingborough went all out in search of maximum points it was another ex Doughboy, Matt Curtis, who laid on Taylor's dramatic late, late winner. And send former Wellingborough manager Colin Ridgway into ecstacy.

Afterwards Doughboys boss Nick Ashby - on his first return to Kiln Park, where he began his managerial career - lamented: "Although we had all the second half play, we still didn't perform and were way below our normal standard. Well done to Raunds, but from our point of view it was very disappointing we will have to be much better at St Ives."

PICTURES
_________________________________________________________

9th April

Local Derby: Doughboys' Team News

Doughboys manager Nick Ashby welcomes Tim Wooding back to the squad for this afternoon's UCL A45 showdown at Raunds.

The stylish right back joins the same squad that defeated St Ives at the Dog and Duck last week.

But Wellingborough will continue to be without centre back Stewart Marshall who has failed to recover from a knee injury. And long term casualty Steve Blackwood, who caused the shopmates so many problems in the Doughboys' 3-2 Boxing Day success over their neighbours.

Striker Darren Collins will also take a late fitness test after being clattered by the St Ives keeper. Collins trained with the rest of the team on Saturday and is expected to line up against an improved Raunds side as the Doughboys look for the win that will help keep them in the hunt for a top two finish.
_________________________________________________________

2nd April

Dog and Duck On Course for FA Upgrade Following Inspection

The Doughboys look set to receive Southern League ground grading clearance following a second and final inspection by the FA today.

Wellingborough Town officials had been given a list of improvements that needed carrying out when inspectors visited the Dog and Duck a week last Wednesday.

And following the second visit this afternoon, following the March 31st deadline, the inspector told the club that all the outstanding work required had been completed to satisfaction. His report now has to be rubber stamped by the relevant FA and League authorities.

Said chairman Martin Goode: "We don't have it in writing yet but it appears we have the green light ground-wise, which is wonderful news. Now its all about where we finish and the promotion places available.

"Whatever happens, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the fabulous band of supporters who did so much to ensure that we hit the deadline with those improvements all around the ground. They couldn't have done more.

"You have only to think what this ground was like when the club re-formed two seasons ago and how it is now to appreciate the amazing amount of hard work that has gone into bringing the Dog and Duck back up to scratch.

"The hard work of those volunteers show that we have a wonderful team on and off the pitch."

_________________________________________________________

1st April

Deadly Mitchell Re-Finds Goal Touch

Wellingborough Town 3 St Ives 1

Leading scorer Jon Mitchell refound his goal-scoring touch yesterday as his clinical hat-trick took the Doughboys a massive step towards a top three finish.

St Ives could find no answer to Mitchell's electric pace and movement, and only he will know how he didn't end up with his second four-goal haul in 21 days after missing the easiest chance of them all.

This was a regulation victory for Wellingborough and the result never looked in doubt once Mitchell had struck for the second time.

Yet once again the Doughboys had to come from a goal down to secure the points with goalkeeper John Hughes was caught out by a quickly taken free kick. As he organised the players in front of him Will Fordham spotted an opening and exquisitely curled his left-footed shot in off the far post to give the visitors a shock fourth minute lead. There was no little irony that in the week the Dog and Duck had been the scene of some major building work it was a half built wall that should let them down.

The Doughboys had taken their time to adjust to the rock-hard pitch and windy conditions. But parity was restored within ten minutes as Mitchell bustled his way through and calmly slotted past Rob Mackney. And only a minute later it should have been two when he found himself in a one-on-one with Mackney yet again. This time the keeper appeared to give up and didn't even move from his line. Somehow, with the entire goal to aim at, Mitchell shinned the ball past a disinterested Mackney and the post.

However, it didn't take long for the Doughboys number 10 to make amends and in the 25th minute timed his run to perfection to make the most of Darren Collins' perceptive pass and outwit Mackney yet again.

That goal didn't just spare Mitchell 's blushes. A minute earlier the linesman made a dreadful decision when he ruled offside as Alfie Taylor rounded the keeper and had the open goal at his mercy, In fact, it was Mitchell who had been in an offside position but had been nowhere near the ball when Taylor ran from deep to exploit St Ives' lame offside trap.

And St Ives had another remarkable escape when Taylor's cross was dropped by the jittery keeper and somehow bounced an inch past the post.

Both teams had now mastered the conditions but the visitors still failed to pose any threat going forward. And the game was finally put beyond their reach on the hour when Mitchell burst through again and kept his composure to fire home.

The only time the Wellingborough defence was troubled was from another quickly-taken free kick. But substitute Graeme Thackray lacked the composure to make the most of his rare chance.

With Potton being denied two points by a late Deeping goal and Spencer falling at Newport Pagnell it would now take a monumental collapse for the Doughboys not to finish the season at least third. But with Boston's resounding 4-0 victory at St Neots keeping them two points ahead of the Doughboys and with a game in hand, Wellingborough will have to stay in this form for their last four games.

Impressive stuff from the Doughboys then who had the edge in all departments. The only disappointment being the booking to Mark Hewitt who now looks likely to miss the final game of the season against Blackstones.

PICTURES
_________________________________________________________

30th March

Doughboys v St Ives: Same Again for Ashby

It's play it again for the Doughboys as boss Nick Ashby keeps to Tuesday night's victorious squad for the visit of St Ives to the Dog and Dock on Saturday.

There are no new injury worries, with top scorer Jon Mitchell completing a full training programme on Thursday night despite obviously labouring in the second half against St Neots.

The indications are that it will be the same starting line up again, though abrasive midfielder Dave Bond (above) has forced his name into contention by excelling in the Reserves' 4-1 win at Irchester on Wednesday night.

Influential full back Tim Wooding has also returned to training, but is likely to have his back problem tested in a reserve fixture next week before he resumes first team duties.

Despite there being only five games to play, this is the first meeting between Wellingborough and St Ives this season. The Cambridgeshire side boast one of the best defences in the league, having conceded just 21 goals in 16 away games - miserly in UCL terms and on Wednesday carved out another 1-0 victory away at Bourne.

However the Doughboys will be flat out for a victory that could go a long way towards ensuring at least a top three finish. On Thursday night Northampton Spencer were held to a goal-less draw by Yaxley, the fifth time they have failed to score in their last seven UCL games.

And on Saturday, fourth-placed Potton visit runaway leaders Deeping. The side the Doughboys are chasing for the runners-up spot, Boston, have a tricky fixture at rapidly improving St Neots.

_________________________________________________________

30th March

Grounds to be Optimistic at New Look Dog and Duck

Wellingborough supporters will notice improvements to the Dog and Duck for tomorrow's game with St. Ives.

As D-Day approaches for the ground to be brought up to Southern League standard, two new turnstiles have been put into place and a cement path laid, connecting the entrance to the walkway of the clubhouse.

It is likely that the turnstiles, although operational, will be used for the first time at a game towards the end of the season.

Also, required painting work has been carried out in the main stand and the concreted old dugout area has been fenced off from the playing area to offer supporters extra covered standing accommodation - and bring the number of people under roof beyond the minimum amount required for ground upgrading.

FA and Southern League inspectors are due to return to visit the Dog and Duck any time with the 31st March deadline being reached on Saturday.

Even so, the club is still appealing to supporters to make themselves available today and tomorrow to join the band of fans who have worked tirelessly to complete all the work by deadline day in order to get Dog and Duck looking its best for the inspectors' visit.

_________________________________________________________ 28th March

Jed Ainge Stunner Secures Three Promotion Points

Wellingborough Town 1 St. Neots 0

The Doughboys returned to the promotion path last night with a narrow victory over a very useful St. Neots side.

And although Wellingborough found themselves hanging on to protect their slender lead, the game should have been done and dusted with a sparkling first half display which created enough clear-cut chances for the points to have been secured in the first 45 minutes.

With Jed Ainge completely dominating central midfield with an all round performance that highlighted his growing stature and Mark Hewitt filling in with a solid display at right back, the Doughboys looked a much more purposeful unit than on Saturday or during the second half against Boston.

While upfront Jon Mitchell clearly relished the extra space afforded him by the intelligent running of Darren Collins.

However it was man-of-the-match Ainge who scored what proved to be the winner with a quite stunning strike on the quarter hour. Receiving the ball from Mitchell half way inside the St Neots half, he ran at the back-tracking Saints defence and, ignoring the choice of passing to an unmarked Collins to his left or Mitchell to his right, unleashed an unstopable right-foot drive from fully 20 yards which screamed into goalkeeper Martin Patching's top left hand corner. It was a most spectacular ending to Wellingborough three-hour goal-drought.

With their confidence up, the Doughboys continued to storm at St Neots in a bid to finish the game off as quickly as possible. A second goal looked certain when Mitchell broke through and with only the goalkeeper to beat and the goal at his mercy he surprisingly elected to square the ball, only to see it run between two colleagues and to safety.

The Saints had barely time to make the most of that huge let off before Collins found himself also with only the keeper to beat but his left-footed shot rolled agonisingly past the far post. And then Ainge was through again but this time, with players better placed, he fired an inch the wrong side of the post with only the goalkeeper in front of him.

As is so often the case a side let off so many times - David Glass also badly missed out when well placed - the Saints nearly made the most of their luck and Cameron Facey should have done better when, on a rare St Neots foray, he got behind the Doughboys' defence and slid his shot wide of Hughes' far post very much in the same manner Collins had missed his chance.

For all Wellingborough's excellence going forward in the first half, the second period rarely saw them as an attacking force. Mitchell appeared to be feelings the effects of the knock he took at Buckingham on Saturday and Alfie Taylor, back from a flu virus, also faded.

However, it was only in the final few minutes that the Doughboys' goal was seriously threatened, though this was restricted to long-range efforts which Hughes handled comfortably.

There was one moment of serious concern, though, when Craig Reynolds' superbly struck free kick rebounded from Hughes' grasp and somehow evaded an in-rushing forward. It was a close shave but this was a game Wellingborough deserved to win not least for their first half flair.

But especially pleasing for boss Nick Ashby was the fact the Doughboys managed at last to keep back-to-back clean sheets in the League this season. And they had to - for with so many gilt-edged chances created, anything less would have seen two more promotion points needlessly wasted.

PICTURES

_________________________________________________________ 27th March

Doughboys v Saints: Deadly duo set to resume partnership

The Doughboys' prolific goalscoring combination of John Mitchell and Darren Collins look set for their first game together for exactly two months when St Neots visit the Dog and Duck tonight (Tues).

Top scorer Mitchell appears to have shrugged off a calf injury that forced him to limp out of Saturday's disappointing draw at Buckingham. While Collins at last looks ready to return to the fold after shaking off a persistent ankle injury that has kept him out of the side since the beginning of the month.

The game, another vital one as the Doughboys try to close in on an automatic promotion spot, could also see the Daz-Scouse 40-plus goal partnership bolstered by Michael Sneddon for the first time.

Definitely ruled out is Tim Wooding with a mystery back problem and Stewart Marshall who picked up a knee injury during Saturday's bruising encounter. Club captain Mark Hewitt deputises for Wooding, with Stuart Smeathers moving across to join Nick Ashby in central defence.

Also likely to start is winger Alfie Taylor, who is back from a bout of flu. The youngster celebrated his 18th birthday this weekend and was given a short run out in the Reserves' 4-3 defeat at home to Burton Park Wanderers last night (Mon).

The news of a return of both Collins and Taylor is welcome news to Doughboys boss Nick Ashby, who has seen his side score only once in their last three matches.

Meanwhile, St Neots have been enjoying a fine run of form since the Doughboys won 3-1 at Rowley Park in early December thanks to goals from Wooding, Malcolm Nedweke and Adam Hancock. The Saints have won seven of their eleven league games, taking them clear of relegation and into comfortable mid-table.

_________________________________________________________ 26th March

Calling All Supporters: Grounds for Promotion

Wellingborough Town has made an urgent appeal to supporters to do their bit to help get the ground up to promotion standard for a final FA inspection at the end of the month.

Officials from the Football Association and the Southern League visited the Dog and Duck last Wednesday and gave the club a list of things that still need doing before the ground can be given the official seal of approval.

Most of the tasks have either been done or are being dealt with by committee members. But there is still some urgent work to the ground itself where time and labour is required, including work to the turnstile area and the cement path to the clubhouse.

Said club secretary Mick Walden: "The list the FA gave us is very doable. But we need some bodies down there to make it happen. We need every supporter who has an hour to spare, even if it is a lunchtime, to come down and help out."

Supporters are asked to contact Chairman Martin Goode on 077689 17012 if they can either work individually or within work parties being organised during the week.

During the day on Tuesday 27th there will be urgent work required to fence off certain sections of the ground and anyone who can give their time will be warmly greated.

Said Martin: "The players are doing their bit on the pitch for promotion. Now we are doing all we can off it. We'd be much obliged to anyone who comes along - you club needs you!"
_________________________________________________________ 24th March

Dismal Doughboys Fire Blanks Again

Buckingham Town 0 Wellingborough Town 0

Any outside chance of the Doughboys snatching the UCL title from leaders Deeping vanished this afternoon following this shock draw at basement club Buckingham.

 

And thanks to Boston's late winner against Desborough, Wellingborough now can't afford any more slip ups between now and the end of the season if they wish to secure the runner's up spot.

 

Because this lacklustre performance at Ford Meadow was the last thing The Doughboys needed in order to get back on the promotion trail.

 

For as away bankers go this was, with Wellingborough boasting more wins and goals on their travels than any other club in the UCL and the Robins reeling after ten straight league defeats, about as clear cut as they come.

 

Even with Tim Wooding pulling out of his expected return from suspension with a back problem plus Darren Collins and Alfie Taylor ruled out through injury and illness respectively, it was still thought that the visitors would have enough in their tank to win this one with something to spare.

 

But the way the Buckingham players celebrated at the end of the game, there was no doubting the magnitude of their Herculean effort to keep Wellingborough at bay. And, in stark contrast, the demeanour of the Doughboys showed that they knew to a man that two points for the taking had slipped through their grasp. Although it would be unfair not to acknowledge the battling qualities of the home team, who compensated for thelack of sophistication in their game by displaying enormous character and heart and a sheer determination not to lose.

 

In truth, the Doughboys were slow out of the blocks and didn't get into second gear until the final ten minutes when Buckingham began to at last tire from their cup-finalesque performance.

 

Wellingborough's cause had not been helped by seeing John Mitchell limping out of the action in the 12th minute when he was clattered to the ground inside the box when trying to make something of a loose Michael Sneddon pass.

 

By that time Mitchell had already opened up the Buckingham defence and, when baring down on goal, elected for power rather than placement allowing Buckingham's giant young goalkeeper Tom Wiltshire to superbly parry the shot.

 

Despite Wellingborough's constant probing, lack of quality with the final ball meant Wiltshire little else to do that half. And it was John Hughes who found himself the more threatened keeper, saving smartly from livewire Darrell Elliott and then having to come out fast to panic the same striker into shooting wide when again well placed.

 

In the second period Hughes had to save well from Aston Goss who stole in at the near post to test the Doughboys keeper with a well struck volley. But, that apart, it was all Wellingborough.

 

Twice Sneddon should have put the Doughboys ahead, first when with only the keeper to beat but inexplicably letting the ball run away from him. And then with the goal at his mercy, shot straight at Wiltshire from 12 yards out. Jed Ainge also sent a rocket just inches over and time and again the ball sped across the Buckingham goal-line without anyone able to apply a decisive touch.

 

Finally, David Glass looked to have made amends for an otherwise disappointing display when his thunderbolt from 25 yards shaved the outside post with Wiltshire for once entirely beaten.

 

This first 0-0 draw of the campaign was also the first time Wellingborough had failed to score in two consecutive league games.

 

And with Mitchell looking doubtful for Tuesday's tricky game with St Neots manager Nick Ashby will be praying for the return of Collins and Wooding to add some extra class and experience. And for the rest of the team to start believing in themselves again.

PICTURES

_________________________________________________________

23rd March

Doughboys looking for Buckingham Buck-up

Doughboys manager Nick Ashby has issued his shell-shocked troops a rallying call by telling them: "It's not over yet - we can still finish in the top two"

He is fully confident they will get their promotion wheels back on track when they visit bottom club Buckingham on Saturday. And he will be urging his players on for one final last push to secure a top two UCL spot following Tuesday night's nightmare defeat at home to Boston.

Wellingborough have by far the easiest run in of all three title-challenging clubs and Saturday's game will be the first of two encounters to be played between the sides between now and the end of April.

Said Nick: "To be honest, and with all respect to Buckingham, we couldn't really have asked for a better fixture for the players to get their confidence back after Tuesday. We are not saying it's an easy game, but it's not the hardest, either. So we realistically expect to come back with all three points.

"Really we have to if we harbour any real ambitions of finisihing at least runners up. We are going out to win all our remaining games and if we do that puts a lot of pressure on Boston, irrespective of Tuesday's result."

Nick also dismissed any criticism of adopting a 4-3-3 formation against the Poachers. "OK, we lost playing that way. But we also lost at home to Holbeach playing 4-4-2. We played some of our best football of the season for the first half hour and should have been at least two ahead. But you can't legislate for some suicide defending and the way the lads' heads dropped was a bit alarming. It was as though they thought: 'We'll we've murdered them and we're still a goal down...' Then the confidence went. Beteween now and the end of the season will will have to be mentally tougher than that - and I'm sure we will. It's not over yet by a long way."

Darren Collins misses out yet again in being in the starting line-up Saturday, with Nick allowing the veteran striker to give his injured ankle a few extra days to recover before Tuesday night's visit of St Neots to the Dog and Duck. Nor is there a place in the side for Malcoln Nedweke.

The Doughboys will, however, be bolstered by the return of right back Tim Wooding, whose vision has been badly missed in the previous two games.

_________________________________________________________

20th March

Doughboys Disaster Night at Dog & Duck as Boston Gain Revenge

Wellingborough Town 0 Boston Town 3

Boston Town served their revenge on fierce rivals Wellingborough cold in a bitter night at the Dog and Duck as the Doughboys tumbled to their biggest league defeat of the season.

For the Dog and Duck faithful it was a night of bitter conditions and disappointment a