Above: Ashford Town (Middx) celebrating at the end of the previous season. They had so much to be proud of during 2022/23 as well. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Ashford Town (Middx).
Ashford Town (Middx) have been on an upward trajectory since their formation. Their latest promotion saw them finally reach the FA Women’s National League last season – and they can look back with pride at their first season in tier four.
“We were under no illusions that this league was tough,” says Aumeeruddy, “The level of physicality and technical executions go up as well as the constant tactical battle of wits coming up against a range of good coaches.
“I think the main challenge has been having to produce performances week in and week out against strong opposition. When you get the opportunity to play teams from these divisions, when you are in a lower league, it’s a one-off occasion. It takes physical and mental stamina over a long season.”
The FA Women’s National League Division One South-East is potentially the toughest of the four leagues at that level of the pyramid, and at no time during the campaign did The Tangerines look to be out of their depth.
“Our proudest moment was definitely stabilising in the FA Women’s National League. Even though there were eventually no relegation places (due to Wymondham Town and Hounslow going out of business during the campaign), the fact we were safe comfortably and didn’t stay up on a technicality is certainly satisfying. We had great results and performances such as the 2-0 win against London Seaward, the 1-0 win over local rivals QPR at home, plus the amazing spectacle that was playing Norwich City at Carrow Road in front of 7,500 fans.
By the end of the season, there were a number of major changes at the club. The departure of founding head coach and chairman Will Boye, plus the full merger between the women’s team and the men’s side of the club. In terms of the latter, the Ashford coach explained the major differences going forward.
“Previously the club was separately funded yet affiliated. Throughout the years and successes, the women’s teams achieved more and more support. Under the chairmanship of Nick Bailey, there has been an increased sense of support for what the women’s section bring to the club.
“The changes mean the women’s section is under full control of the Ashford Town (Middx) FC and are responsible for all funding and operations. This will mean Nick takes the helm as the chair of the women’s section.”
Into the shoes of Will Boye steps Adam Frailing as head coach. Frailing is a man with huge experience in West London football as he explained.
“I started coaching at Northolt Eagles as my sister’s son was there and there were lots of spare kids around the age of five roaming around with other brothers and sisters who were my own son’s age. That’s where it began!
“I scouted for Wycombe Wanderers, Brentford, and Tottenham Hotspur and did Elite Player Performance Plan work at QPR. Later on in life. I helped with development centres for Spurs and QPR.
“After being asked to help with younger age groups at Denham United Ladies for two years, I was then asked if I would consider taking the first team as manager. I spent six years at the club in tier four. At points, we had 56 players at training. My health took a little bit of a turn where I needed rest so decided I needed a break.
“A year later and feeling refreshed, I was asked if interested in assisting at Ashford, already had a great manager in Will Boye and Matthew, so it was a pleasure. I was then asked to assist the club’s men’s team manager and we did a very good job and were proud of our efforts. Then Covid came.”
“Unfortunately, Will left as he had a child and wanted to spend time with family. Matt(hew Aumeeruddy) stepped up and did a great job trying to steer the club in the right direction. Then for me to be offered the manager’s role at this great club was a no-brainer. I can’t wait to get started. We as a group will hope to continue the great work set by Will and Matt and do them proud.”
After a hugely positive first season at tier four, Ashford are determined to push on in 2023/24.”Our aim is to improve on the position we found ourselves in last season,” coach Matthew Aumeeruddy said, “I feel we are well equipped to do that, especially taking the lessons learned. We want to be able to push up the league table and taste cup success.”
The potential for success is aided by the retention of the vast majority of Ashford Town’s squad, allied with some new faces as Aumeeruddy outlined.
“Firstly, we are delighted to retain the majority of our players from last season. I think it shows how much the players are invested in the club and see the potential that the club has to offer Naturally there are always one or two that look elsewhere for various reasons, and we wish them all the best. New arrivals are slowly and surely coming onboard and will be revealed in due course, so watch this space!”
With the FA Women’s National League Division One South-East looking to be as strong as ever, with only one promotion spot available again, the Tangerines’ coach looked ahead to the new clubs his team will be facing when the new season starts.
“We know Worthing from our time in the (tier five) London & South-East Regional Women’s Football League. They were a very capable and well-coached outfit, and it is no surprise to see them promoted into this league. AFC Sudbury are not as well known to us but they have also come out of a very strong league with clubs that have huge reputations in the women’s game. Having played against their women’s academy teams from my other coaching roles, they will provide strong opposition.
“Haywards Heath, who were relegated into this division under their previous identity of Crawley Wasps will be an unknown entity. Nevertheless, it will become clear very quickly what they’re about during pre-season and the early parts of the season.”
Ashford Town (Middx) are a club with a strong identity and hugely talented players. You would not bet against them gaining a further promotion in years to come.
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