Newbury Sunday League announces fixture schedule for new season

The fixture schedule for Newbury Sunday League football has been announced.

The season will begin on September 8, with the final day taking place on November 10 and all games kicking off at 10:30.

The first round of games will see Diamond FC host newcomers The Crickets AFC at The Diamond, Greenham on Sunday 8.

Elsewhere, last year’s champions NWX have a home fixture against Kingsclere at Henwick Playing Fields.

Plough on the Green FC make their league debut by hosting Thatcham Tornadoes at City Playground on the Andover Road.

The league is taking place with only six teams this season, comprising a single division, an all time low.

A decade ago, the league boasted 21 clubs, but rising costs and falling interest has led to a disastrous decline.

It is anticipated that the league will begin its cup competitions after November, with the Knock Out Cup, Vic French Cup, Jim Wild Memorial Shield and Lambourn Cup all contested last season, but this is yet to be confirmed.

Last season saw nine sides take part, but this summer saw the withdrawal of Woolton Hill Argyle, Brimpton Rangers, Newbury Lions, Cold Ash and The Lamb Inn, whilst Paggies Bar made an aborted attempt to return.

This has been offset somewhat by two new entries, with Thatcham pub The Crickets entering the league and Newbury’s Plough on the Green launching a side.

They’ll be joined by regulars Diamond FC, Kingsclere, NWX FC and Thatcham Tornadoes this season.

All clubs are open to new players and volunteers, with social media pages set up for all six sides.

For further information on how to get involved in any capacity, those interested should contact the clubs on social media or get in touch with organiser Bill Fry on 07964 058344.