Since the FA Cup defeat we’ve played two friendlies – a 3-3 draw at home to Bedford and a 2-1 loss at Chertsey Town on Tuesday. As I’ve said before, these games were never about results. They were about giving players minutes, introducing some of the younger lads into the first team environment and keeping the sharpness high for when the league resumes. Of course, the stat that jumps out is that we went through September without a win. That’s frustrating, but I can assure you there is no panic. We’ve been competitive in every game, losing only by the odd goal when we’ve been beaten, and we know that with small margins going our way the results will soon follow.
Tomorrow provides us with the chance to put that into practice. The atmosphere you create at home matches is always a big lift, and the players will need you again this weekend. Stick with them, keep believing, and let’s try to make The Meadow a difficult place for any side to come. Once again we will have plenty of food and drink options, live matches in the clubhouse before and after games, and we have another excellent programme for you to read, an absolute bargain at just £3, packed with good content and not just adverts like you get in may programmes nowadays.
Off the pitch, I must mention last weekend’s friendly and the admission charge. We set the entry at £5 across the board, but it has been pointed out to me that season tickets state all friendlies are free. My understanding has always been that this referred to pre-season matches, not mid-season arranged games, but on reflection the wording is not clear enough. I completely appreciate the feedback and apologise wholeheartedly to anyone who felt misled. Sixty-five people paid on the gate that day, and with officials and stewards to cover, the money taken did not even balance the costs. However, the principle is more important than the balance sheet, and for anyone who feels they were wrongly charged please do come and see me – I will happily refund your money. For next season we will ensure total clarity on this point so there is no room for confusion again.
I also want to touch on a serious matter concerning Alex Lafleur. Many of you will know he has been carrying an injury for a while, and after visiting a leading professional in Harley Street it has now been diagnosed as a sports hernia requiring surgery. Between consultations, scans and MRIs, the costs have already passed £1,400, and that’s before the operation itself. These are the hidden realities of running a club at this level. We want to look after our players properly, and that comes at a price. That is why we launched the GoFundMe page for player injuries, and why events like the upcoming Managers’ Football Quiz Night are so important. Tables of six are just £60, and every penny raised goes into helping fund the treatment and rehabilitation of players like Alex. If you are able to donate via the GoFundMe online page, please do. Keeping our squad fit is vital to giving us the best chance of a successful season. Link to page:
On the subject of dates for your diary, there are some exciting events coming up. Firework Night returns to The Meadow on Friday 7th November – always a spectacular occasion, family-friendly and a great way to bring the community together. Then looking slightly further ahead, on Friday 5th December we will be hosting a very special evening in The Chess Suite. Numbers are limited to just 100 tickets, and the event will feature food and the showing of two Chesham United related films – more details will be shared soon, but do get the date in your diary now.
While we’re on the subject of supporting the club off the pitch, please remember to visit the club shop in the clubhouse. Unlike some merchandise sold elsewhere, every purchase you make funds the club directly, and every penny counts. Whether it’s a scarf, a hat, or something for a Christmas present, it all makes a difference.
Looking ahead to Sunday, our women’s first team travel to Wycombe Wanderers Women in the third qualifying round of the Adobe Women’s FA Cup. The game takes place at Adams Park, and if you can make the short trip to support them it would be hugely appreciated. Wycombe are unbeaten this season in the division below and chasing promotion, so it is a tough tie. But as we know all too well, cup football is about who shows up on the day. Best of luck to our women – I know they’ll give everything.
Finally, a simple thank you. I say it often, but it never loses meaning: this club is nothing without its supporters. Whether you’re standing on the terraces, buying a programme, coming to social events, or putting a few pounds into a fundraising page – it all matters. It all helps keep the club moving forward. Let’s get behind the team tomorrow, loud and proud, and together turn performances into results.
Peter Brown, Chairman
