Crookham Rovers F.C.

With just one win in the previous two seasons and an exodus of players in 2008, this season was always going to be one of rebuilding (particularly confidence). Some excellent new players and the vast improvement of some of the existing ones helped the side to four wins and three draws and at times some football that was a delight to watch. After two wins on the bounce and no goals conceded in November, had the appalling weather conditions which resulted in no games for five weeks not blighted the team’s momentum, more positive results might have ensued. With no friendlies and a very new team, the first match was a 5-5 thrilling encounter at home against Liphook Lasers, Shane Davidson netting a hat trick on his debut.

The defence of Rowan Williams, Jamie Auge-de-Rancourt, Matt Richards and Connor Hoskins, marshalled by the ever dependable Alex Oldham in goal, had an outstanding season. Had it not been for a lack of pace in the last third of the pitch and some inept finishing at times, the Bulls could seriously have pushed for honours.

Individually, the captain, Andrew Dowling had an excellent season and also inspired the team with his fitness and work-rate. He teamed up ably with Stuart Muirden in the middle of midfield. Kerim Topcu also turned in some good performances and provided some useful goals.

A season to forget as the Rovers finished bottom of League 2 without a win to their name all season. However, signs were there that some of the players were developing into potential stars of the future. Alex Oldham in goal produced some outstanding performances whilst team stalwarts Freddie Toms, Matthew Richards, Michael Woodfine and Stuart Muirden all showed glimpses of potential to come as the Rovers were relegated to division three. The summer of 2008 saw an influx of some very talented new players to bolster the squad.

As an U12 team, the Bulls were placed in the Premier Division of the Saturday League, which was plainly a mistake as the boys struggled all year, winning just once at bottom club Farnborough and drawing twice. The Rovers started well enough with a draw at Camberley but with teams such as Horndean Hawks and Dynamo Manor dominating the league, the Rovers were out of their depth and conceeded 85 goals, scoring just 20. Paul Hartnoll turned in some excellent perfomances with Luke Osbiston, Freddie Toms, Alex Meyers and Craig Smith playing their part. Paul and Luke left the squad for pastures new with the challenge of a new season on Sunday's ahead.

As an under 11 team, the Bulls finished fourth in Division 2, winning ten, losing ten and drawing once scoring 67 goals in the process. Top side in the division, Curley Park Rangers didn't lose a game all season and Hook United and Grayshott also proved tough nuts to crack. The Rovers showed at times just how good they could be with some tremendous performances notably at Torpedo Manor and Headley. However, poor concentration and defending at times meant the team were always destined for a mid-table place.