Biggleswade United FC

Biggleswade United 3 Holmer Green 2 - Spartan South Midlands League, Premier Division

Spartan South Midlands League

The area around Biggleswade is thought to have been inhabited from around 10,000 BC, with arrowheads dating from this period found in the region. In Roman times, a loop road known as the White Way passed through Biggleswade (possibly along the course of the present-day Drove Road), linking up with the Ermine Way at Godmanchester. In the Fifth century AD, Saxon invaders settled here — the name Biggleswade is thought to be derived from Biceil, an Anglo-Saxon personal name and Waed, the Saxon word for ‘ford’.

In more recent times, Harry Hotspur and the Pieman visited Biggleswade last year. On that occasion it was to witness the last ever home fixture for Biggleswade Town FC at their 'Fairfield' ground. As reported at that time, Biggleswade United are based at Second Meadow adjacent to Fairfield and therefore this was a familiar location.

Neighbour, Local Bus Driver was again behind the wheel and provided a door to door service (very welcome on a progressively cold evening). On arrival it soon became clear that there was doubt that the match would reach conclusion due to the plummeting temperature.

Clubhouse & Dressing Rooms

Not unusually for this level, the ground is basic with the only covered are for spectators being a smallish structure along one of the sides. Mainly standing but boasting a (very) few seats. One of those seats was occupied by the legendary Brian Buck. Brian is very well known on the groundhopping scene having visited more grounds than anyone else I know. Just as remarkable is his record of attending 1000 consecutive Tottenham Hotspur 1st team home matches, a run stretching back to 1969 (not sure what crimes Brian has committed but he doesn't deserve that - Ed). Brian lives in the area and he did appear familiar with this particular seat!

Brian Buck enjoys 'the best seat in the house'

The referee deserves enormous credit for the way he enabled this match to reach conclusion. It became clear prior to kick-off that one side of the pitch was freezing but a common sense approach, a shorter half time break and the cooperation of everyone (players and officials) got us through to 90 minutes. The Pieman thanked the officials for their efforts and in response the referee said that both teams had played very well. Local Bus Driver will be contacting the League to offer his feedback.

For the record, Holmer Green took an early lead in this 'Six Pointer' (Both clubs are struggling near the foot of the table) Only for Biggleswade United to draw level with a penalty and take the lead before the break. Holmer Green levelled shortly after the interval only for Biggleswade United to claim all 3 points by converting another spot kick. An excellent match played in very difficult conditions.

Biggleswade United clinch the points with their 2nd penalty

Stevenage Borough were playing Morecambe in an FA Trophy reply and were already in extra time (they won 3-0) as we sped past Broadhall Way on our way home. Home by 22.20.

Attendance: 51
Admission: £4 (including programme) Concessions £2 (Inc prog)
Programme: Additional Copies £1 (obtained for you Andy, Stan and Glyn, the barman in Phil Butler's local, the Prince Albert in Ely)
Coffee: From Local Bus Driver's flask


Biggleswade United FC 2006 - 2007