SPALDING UNITED SPALDING UNITED THIS SEASON! THIS SEASON!
LEAGUE CAMPAIGN SO FAR LEAGUE CAMPAIGN SO FAR
Games-35
Games-35
Wins-23
Wins-23
Draws-7
Draws-7
Losses-5
Losses-5
Points-76
Points-76
Today’s opponents have no doubt been one of the more impressive teams in Southern League Premier Division Central this season, having occupied one of the top two spots in the league for the majority of the campaign. The Tulips narrowly missed out on a playoff spot last in the 2024/25 season having finished just two points behind 5 placed Harborough Town. Under the stewardship of manager Jimmy Dean, Spalding have made a good go of putting that right, having stormed to 76 points from 35 games. Safe to say, the Lincolnshire-based outfit are serious about leaving nothing to chance this time around. Despite their formidable league form, Ives are one of the five sides to taste victory against Dean’s men this season, with a stoppage time winner from Michael Richens sealing a remarkable 3-2 away win for manager Ricky Marheineke’s men back in November. th
Spalding weren’t quite able to replicate their stellar league form in their respective cup competitions, with Dean’s side only managing to make it to the First Round Propper of the FA Trophy before being knocked out by Corby Town.
Tulip’s run in the FA Cup was more enjoyable for the Spalding faithful, who watched their team come out on top against Ilkeston Town, before defeating National League Alfreton Town and Dagenham & Redbridge. Their impressive run in the competiton ended at the 4 Qualifying Round stage at the hands of South Shields, who currently sit 2 in National League North. th nd
Young Jack has certainly made a big impact for today’s opponents since making the move from fellow Southern League Premier Division Central side Bishop’s Stortford last year. The 21-year-old scored Spalding’s first goal of the campaign in a 2-1 opening day defeat to Real Bedford, and has continued to show his goal scoring prowess throughout the campaign, netting 24 times so far. Most recently, the former Braintree Town man provided an all-important goal and assist in Spalding’s 3-2 win over Halesowen Town, which kept Tulips within touching distance of Harborough Town at the top.
Roberts was a product of Glasgow Rangers’ academy set-up before making the move to National League Braintree in 2024. The forward then had some short term loan moves, including Cheshunt FC and Bishop’s Stortford, where he scored eight goals in 23 appearances. No doubt he’ll be looking to continue adding to this season’s tally when he makes the trip to Cambridgeshire.
LAST MATCH LAST MATCH REPORT! REPORT!
BNeedham Market v St Ives Town
Pitching-In Southern League Premier Central 14-03-2026
Written by Nigel Howlett
Saturday 14th March
Still without a win in 2026 sad Ives slipped to their ninth defeat in a row a run which has seen them tumble from a comfortable mid table position into the relegation zone. But yet again there were glimpses of the early season form that still gives a little hope that they can soon arrest their slide and move away from the bottom four but that turn around must come soon
Not for the first time in that dismal run Ives were undone by conceding a batch of goals immediately after the half time interval. This time it was three in an eight minute spell from 50th minute This inexplicable brief spell where they seemed to lose their way completely undid what had been an excellent first half display where they had harried and hassled their play-off chasing opponents into errors and got their noses in front courtesy of a well worked 14th minute free kick that saw Michael Richens bury a powerful, close range, header.
Manager Ricky Marheineke again made four changes to the starting eleven bringing Matty Miles, Michael Richens, Reuben Wyatt and Jernade Meade into the side with Ethan Creary, Aaron Smith and Tyrone Baker dropping to the bench and highly promising loanee Lenny Brown recalled by Stevenage Marheineke’s opposite number Tom Rothery perhaps unsurprisingly stuck with the same side that had turned over league leaders Spalding United in their previous game
It was an ex Ives player that had the first attempt on goal of the game as Myles Cowling got on the end of an early ball in from the left by Tommy Smith but fortunately for the visitors only managed to screw his close range effort into the side netting
Then came the early goal that Ives wanted to boost their confidence. With 14 minutes on the watch Theo Alexandrou was brought down 35 yards from goal by Kieron Morphew. Dan Lawlor curled the perfect inviting free kick to the back post where Richens ghosted in unmarked and powered his header past James Bradbrook
LAST MATCH LAST MATCH REPORT! REPORT!
Saturday 14th March
The hosts reacted well to falling behind and came within inches of equalising four minutes later. A driven cross from the right by Reggie Lambe ricocheted off a defender into the path of Smith 25 yards out. The rampaging wing back took on the effort first time and his shot skimmed off the wet turf, beat the diving Ollie Taylor, but thudded the inside of his left hand post and rebounded to safety
Ives continued to battle and although the hosts had the majority of possession the visitors defended their box well and it took until ten minutes before the break for the Marketmen to carve out their next opportunity to test Taylor An excellent ball into the feet of Lambe allowed the tricky striker to turn Sam Tessler on the edge of the box and get a run on goal but Taylor was smartly off his line to smother the ball and deny him
The hosts had one more half chance to get on terms before the break as Cowling again arrived at the near post to get on the end of Smith’s cross from the left but again the ex Ives striker failed to hit the target with his glancing header
The second half was only five minutes old when Smith ghosted in between Ives centre backs to get on the end of Kyle Hammond’s cross from the right to power his free header low past the left hand of the startled Taylor and level things up
Ives should have gone back in front almost instantly as Mark Jones won the ball high up the pitch and fed inside to Wyatt he threaded his pass into the run of Alexandrou who cut inside his marker and unleashed a curling effort from the edge of the box that beat the diving Bradbook but rebounded off the foot of the post and was scrambled clear.
But having failed to get back in the lead the visitors then found themselves behind in 54th minute conceding in the worst fashion possible. A long Daniel Morphew free kick from inside the centre circle floated over the heads of Ives back line allowing Ingram to get on the end of it. The Marketmen’s number seven even had time to take down the ball before slotting it past the exposed Taylor
Once more the visitors reacted well to conceding as Alexandrou combined well with Wyatt The latter feeding the former in down the right. Alexandrou cut inside along the bye line and it took a brave save from Bradbrook plunging into feet to claim the ball off the toe of Richens at the near post
LAST MATCH LAST MATCH REPORT! REPORT!
Saturday 14th March
TFor the second time in a matter of minutes the hosts capitalised on Ives failure to find the net as they broke at pace with Ollie Saunders getting away down the left before sliding a ball into the centre where substitute Joe Neal, who had only been on the pitch ninety seconds, side footed home to seal the game
The hosts did squander a couple more good opportunities both falling to Ingram Taylor almost gifted them a goal in 64th minute when his poor pass out was cut out by Cowling. His low cross into the centre picked out Ingram who looked sure to score but the combined efforts of Tessler and Meade did just enough to stop him sliding the ball home at the back post Nine minutes later Lawlor lost possession in the centre circle to Ingram who tried lobbing Taylor from fully 45 yards and was within inches of getting it right. The Ives stopper very pleased to see the ball drift just over his crossbar thanks to a strong wind down the pitch.
Ives battled to the end and Ryan Fryatt came very close to halving the arrears with five minutes to go A deep Lawlor free kick was hung up at the back post where the powerful centre back leapt above the crowd and beat Bradbrook with his powerful header only to see the effort hit the crossbar and bounce over the top.
The result sees the hosts extend their unbeaten run to seven games and they leapfrog Redditch and Halesowen into the final play off place whilst sad Ives must limp away to lick their wounds as they slip into the final relegation place just one point behind Stamford but the Daniels have two games in hand. Things do not get any easier for the Ives with their next game at home to second placed Spalding who have only lost two in twenty since Ives surprise win at Sir Halley Stewart Field in early November, dare we hope for a repeat of that wonderful day?
LAST MATCH LAST MATCH REPORT!
Goals:
NEEDHAM: Smith 50, Ingram 55, Neal 58
ST IVES: Richens 14
Team Line Ups:
NEEDHAM: Bradbrook, Dye, T. Smith, Hammond (Appauh 84), K. Morphew, D. Morphew, Ingram (Fiddy 90+2), Saunders, Cowling (Chambers 72), Hunter (Barker 87), Lambe (Neal 56), Unused subs: none
Cards: Yellow: NEEDHAM: K.Morphew (79), Hunter (82), Bradbrook (83) ST IVES: Lawlor (81), Jones (89)
IVES SUPPORTERS MAN OF THE MATCH: Dan Lawlor
Attendance: 368
RESERVES, ACADEMY RESERVES, ACADEMY RESERVES NEWS!
LADIES NEWS AND LADIES ROUND
-UP! AND LADIES ROUND-UP!
Since our last edition of the match programme, the reserves have been in action in the GCE United Counties Reserve League having taken on Wellingborough Town Development. The ressies produced an impressive display to come out 7-3 winners on the day, serving as perfect preparation for their League Cup Final the following Friday.
Sadly for our lads, it was a strong Harborough Town side who took home the trophy at Brunting Road as they were beaten 3-1 on the night. Not the ending they would’ve wanted but the boys can be proud of their efforts!
ACADEMY NEWS
The academy sides were all in action since our last edition of the matchday programme, with the scholars, U18's and U19's having fixtures. The scholars had games against Oaklands College, Milton Keyes College and Bishop’s Stortford.
The U18's faced the prospect of a final day showdown with Deeping Rangers, knowing a win would all-but secure the Thurlow Nunn Youth Football League title. The lads captured the form they showed all season to overpower Deeping and secured a 4-0 win.
Since our last edition of the match programme, the ladies side have also been in action in the Alan Boswell Group Cambridgeshire Girls and Women's Football League Division Two. Ives lost out to Cambourne Town and Whittlesey Athletic, leaving them 7 in the table. Unfortunately, they were also knocked out of the Hunts FA County Cup by Eaton Socon.
1.Who scored Tottenham Hotspurs equaliser against Liverpool to secure a 1-1 draw?
1 Who scored Tottenham Hotspurs equaliser against Liverpool to secure a 1-1 draw?
2.Who became the youngest ever Premier League goalscorer with his goal against Everton?
2 Who became the youngest ever Premier League goalscorer with his goal against Everton?
3.Which Leeds United player was sent off before half-time in their clash with Crystal Palace.
3 Which Leeds United player was sent off before half-time in their clash with Crystal Palace.
4.What was the score in Chelsea’s game against Newcastle Unietd?
4 What was the score in Chelsea’s game against Newcastle Unietd?
5.Who scored for West Ham United in their draw with Manchester City
5.Who scored for West Ham United in their draw with Manchester City
6.Who scored after four minutes for Newcastle United?
6 Who scored after four minutes for Newcastle United?
7.Who did Manchester United beat 3-1 on Sunday afternoon?
7.Who did Manchester United beat 3-1 on Sunday afternoon?
8.Which player notched up their 15 and 16 Premier League assist of the season? th th
8 Which player notched up their 15 and 16 Premier League assist of the season? th th
9.Who did Brighton and Hove Albion beat 0-1 on Saturday afternoon?
9 Who did Brighton and Hove Albion beat 0-1 on Saturday afternoon?
10.Who scored their only goal in that game?
10.Who scored their only goal in that game?
Want to find out how you got on?
We are delighted to announce the signing of Amaru Kaunda from Hanwell Town!
The forward previouslyspent time with the Ives on loan from Cambridge United last season.
After 35 rounds of fixtures, Ives find themselves in... 19TH
The Non-League Paper has long been, and continues to be, a passionate advocate for our sport a valued presence on newsstands across the country every weekend.
They offer a wide range of subscription options that would make excellent gifts for the special people in your lives who can’t get enough of Non-League football. Around 70% of postal subscribers receive their paper via courier on Sunday or Monday morning. An annual subscription to the Digital Edition brings the cost to less than £1 a week.
They have also launched a new Website Subscription, giving readers access to all of Sunday’s content online — again, less than £1 a week with an annual subscription.
More details can be found at: https://www.thenonleaguefootballpaper.com/subscriptions/ or call 0207 471 8198 to order over the phone.
By Jon Couch
MEET TODAY’S OPPONENTS
SPALDING UTD MANAGEMENT & BACKROOM STAFF 25/26
Jimmy Dean-Manager
Jimmy Dean took charge of Spalding United in August 2024, determined to make the Tulips a force at Step 3 He built his reputation as one of non-league’s most successful managers during his time at Peterborough Sports, where he masterminded four promotions, three league titles, and an incredible 11 trophies After a spell at Scunthorpe United in the National League North, Dean brought his winning mentality to Spalding. Known for his ability to build competitive squads and inspire players, he has big ambitions for the club’s future.
Chris Plummer-Assistant Manager
Chris Plummer is an experienced coach and trusted right-hand man to Jimmy Dean, having worked with him at both Peterborough Sports and Scunthorpe United A former professional defender, he played for Queens Park Rangers in the Premier League and Peterborough United, before moving into coaching and management. He also managed Corby Town, adding valuable experience to his résumé Calm, assured, and tactically astute, Chris plays a key role in the Tulips’ game preparation and player development
Neil Godhania-Assistant Coach
Neil is a dedicated coach with a passion for developing players and contributing to the club’s success He plays a vital role in supporting manager Jimmy Dean and Chris Plummer in preparing the team for each match and training session. Neil brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the pitch, workimg closely with the players to enhance their tactical skills and understanding
Ben Derbyshire-Goalkeeper Coach
Ben is the man behind Spalding’s goalkeeping unit, ensuring the Tulips’ shot stoppers are sharp and ready for action Alongside his club duties, he runs his own specialist coaching business, working with keepers from grassroots to elite levels His technical knowledge, combined with a passion for developing talent, makes him an invaluable asset to the squad. From fine-tuning footwork to improving decision-making under pressure, Ben ensures every keeper is prepared for matchday
Steve Williams-Analyst
Steve provides crucial tactical and performance analysis to support the coaching team and improve player development His work includes breaking down opposition tactics, highlighting key trends, and delivering data-driven insights that give Spalding a competitive edge. By combining video analysis with statistical detail, Steve ensures the team is always fully prepared Behind the scenes, he is an essential part of the club’s success plan
Callum Smith-Physio
Callum is part of the medical team that keeps Spalding’s players fit and firing He plays a key role in injury prevention, rehabilitation, and day-to-day treatment, working closely with Lee Taylor to maintain elite standards of care. His attention to detail and player-focused approach make him a trusted member of the squad’s support team Callum’s work often goes unnoticed by fans, but it’s vital for the team’s success on the pitch
Paul Beeston-Kit Manager
Paul is the unsung hero of matchdays, ensuring everything is organised and ready for action From preparing kits to managing equipment, he handles the behind-the-scenes details that keep the club running smoothly. His role requires precision, organisation, and dedication, qualities Paul brings in abundance Thanks to his efforts, the players and staff can focus fully on the game knowing everything else is taken care of
MEET TODAY’S OPPONENTS
Spalding United Player Profiles – 2025/26
Goalkeepers
Dan Wilks
Spalding United is delighted to welcome experienced goalkeeper Dan Wilks to the Sir Halley Stewart Field Joining us from National League North side Bedford Town, Dan brings extensive non-league experience to the Tulips. He developed in the academies of Watford and St. Mirren and has featured for clubs including Maldon & Tiptree, Whitehawk, Welling United, Billericay Town, and St Ives Town Most recently the No 1 at Bedford Town, we look forward to Dan bringing his reliability and experience to the team Welcome to the Tulips, Dan!
Jake West
Jake is a promising young goalkeeper who joined Spalding in 2024 after coming through Peterborough United’s academy. He quickly made a name for himself during pre-season with strong performances and shot-stopping ability Still learning his trade, Jake benefits from working alongside experienced professionals like Aaron Chapman With talent and hunger to improve, he has a bright future ahead
Defenders
Ben Blythe
Former Doncaster Rovers prospect and Swansea City defender, Ben captained Doncaster’s U18s to a league title before further development in Wales Comfortable on the ball and strong defensively, he also offers versatility across the back line After a successful spell at Barry Town, Ben brings leadership and a cultured left foot to Spalding Fans can expect him to be a key figure in the defence
Nathan Fox
Nathan is an experienced left-back with a reputation for pace, energy, and dangerous crosses A former Notts County player, he has achieved promotions with King’s Lynn Town, Buxton, and Peterborough Sports Known for his attacking runs and quality deliveries, Fox adds both defensive stability and attacking threat Expect him to be a constant presence up and down the left flank
Ben Hart
Ben joined Spalding from Kettering Town and has also represented Burton Albion, where he broke into the first team He is a reliable and composed defender who brings strength and consistency to the back line Ben’s versatility makes him a valuable option across the defence, and his experience in non-league football adds steel to the squad A dependable figure for the season ahead
Connor Johnson
Connor is a commanding centre-back with an excellent football pedigree, having captained Wolves U23s earlier in his career He has played for Walsall, Kilmarnock, and Kettering Town, bringing leadership and calmness under pressure Johnson’s aerial strength and defensive awareness make him a huge asset for Spalding A natural leader in the heart of defence
Liam Moore (Captain)
One of Spalding’s biggest signings in recent history, Liam brings top-level experience from Leicester City and Reading, where he made over 230 appearances. A former Premier League player and Jamaican international, he initially retired before joining the Tulips to lead from the back Moore’s leadership, reading of the game, and commanding presence make him the cornerstone of Spalding’s defence A true role model on and off the pitch
MEET TODAY’S OPPONENTS
Matthew Bondswell
A strong and pacey left-back, Matthew Bondswell joins us with an impressive pedigree, having spent time in the academies of Nottingham Forest and German giants RB Leipzig The 23-year-old also gained valuable experience playing for Newcastle United's Under-21 squad and on loan at EFL League Two side Newport County, making 32 appearances during his time there Bondswell has represented England at various youth levels, highlighting his talent and potential We are excited to see him bring his defensive solidity and attacking prowess to the Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field.
Lewis White
A robust and versatile defender, Lewis is a familiar face to the Tulips faithful, having rejoined the club in August 2025 His return was a key move by new manager Jimmy Dean, who was keen to bring the centre-back into his squad Lewis is primarily a centre-back, but his versatility allows him to operate in midfield as well He is a robust and committed player known for leaving everything on the pitch. This is his second spell with the club, and we are excited to see his contributions this season as we push forward under Jimmy Dean
Tosin Olopade
Welcome to Tosin who joins the Tulips on a one-month loan from EFL League Two side Salford City The 20-year-old Irish defender (right-back) signed his first professional contract with Salford in 2023 He has since made five senior appearances for the club, including his League Two debut in August 2024, and is a regular for their B-team. Known for his solid defensive skills and aerial strength, Tosin joins Spalding United to gain valuable first-team experience Everyone at the club wishes him a successful spell
Josh Taroni
We extend a warm welcome to Josh Taroni, who joins the Tulips on loan from League One side Burton Albion The 18-year-old is a modern, attack-minded full-back known for his energy and technical quality. A product of the Brewers’ academy since age 10, Josh captained their U18s to cup success before making his senior professional debut in 2024 Voted Burton’s Young Player of the Season for 2024/25, Josh brings 13 games of senior EFL experience to the Sir Halley Stewart Field His arrival adds significant quality and versatility to the squad for our title run-in
Midfielders
Alfie Bendle
A technically gifted 20-year-old midfielder, Alfie joined from Colchester United and previously developed with AFC Wimbledon and Forest Green Rovers He has also impressed during loan spells at Eastbourne Borough and Chelmsford City, showing creativity and composure Alfie brings energy and flair to the centre of the park and is one of the squad’s rising talents Fans will be eager to see his progress this season
Josh McCammon
Josh is a dynamic midfielder with energy and technical ability in abundance He has played under Jimmy Dean at Peterborough Sports and was key in their rise through the leagues Comfortable in multiple midfield roles, Josh adds drive and creativity to the team Expect him to be influential in both defence and attack
MEET TODAY’S OPPONENTS
Curtis Thompson
Curtis is an experienced midfielder with over 200 Football League appearances, including successful spells at Notts County and Wycombe Wanderers Known for his defensive qualities and tactical awareness, he adds steel and leadership to Spalding’s midfield Thompson’s experience at Championship level makes him a huge asset in big games Expect calmness, control, and quality in the centre of the pitch
Tom Pugh
A dynamic and tenacious midfielder, Tom joins the Tulips on loan from National League side FC Halifax Town Tom carries a wealth of experience from the professional game, having progressed through the academies of Leeds United and Scunthorpe United, where he eventually served as academy captain and made over 80 senior appearances
Forwards
Yusifu Ceesay
A lightning-fast winger who loves to take on defenders, Yusifu is a major attacking threat He scored 12 goals for Hereford last season and previously played for Blackpool in the EFL Direct, dangerous, and exciting to watch, Ceesay brings pace and flair to Spalding’s attack Expect fireworks whenever he’s on the ball
Bart Cybulski
At 6’6”, Bart is a towering striker with incredible presence in the box A former Derby County player and Poland U19 international, he joined Spalding in 2024 and hit the ground running with goals galore Strong, clinical, and confident, Bart is the focal point of the Tulips’ attack A true goal machine who defenders fear
Jordan Nicholson
Jordan is an experienced attacking midfielder with an eye for goal and creativity in abundance. He has EFL experience with Peterborough United and Barnet and has scored regularly across nonleague football Nicholson’s vision and technical ability make him a constant threat in the final third A player who can unlock defences with a moment of magic
Jack Roberts
A young striker with pace, power, and finishing ability, Jack joined Spalding from Bishop’s Stortford in 2025. He made his name with some outstanding performances, including a hat-trick against the Tulips before signing Hungry for goals and ready to shine, Roberts is one to watch this season Expect excitement when he’s on the pitch
Sano Sani
Former Benfica academy product Sano is a versatile forward capable of playing anywhere across the front line Strong, skilful, and unpredictable, he brings flair and power to Spalding’s attack
Already off the mark for the Tulips, Sano is eager to make a big impact this season. A constant threat to opposition defences
Dion Sembie-Ferris
Dion is a skilful winger who started his career at Peterborough and played in League One with Colchester United Known for his pace and creativity, he played a key role in Jimmy Dean’s previous successes at Peterborough Sports and Scunthorpe Back under Dean’s guidance, Dion brings energy and excitement to the wide areas. Expect him to create and score in equal measure.
MEET TODAY’S OPPONENTS
Alex Roberts
Talented young forward who recently joined the tulips. Alex is an exciting prospect who is ready to make his mark at the Sir Halley Stewart ground The 19yr old, arrived form Norwich City in August 25 having previously come through the youth ranks at Peterborough Utd
Saleem Akanbi
A graduate of the Cambridge United Academy, Saleem arrives at the Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field with a reputation for pace and power. Having signed his first pro deal in 2022, he has gained valuable experience across the non-league pyramid with the likes of Chelmsford City and Bishops Stortford
HISTORY OF SPALDING UNITED
SPALDING UTD HISTORY 25/26
Although long believed to have formed in 1921, research shows Spalding United was actually founded in 1905, following the merger of Fulney Institute and Spalding Victorias at a meeting in a local hostelry The new club began life at the Low Grounds, with matches also staged on Pinchbeck Road (Black Swan Field) – the site of today’s Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field, our long-standing home
One of the most famous days in the club’s history came in 1952, when a record 6,973 crowd packed into the ground for an FA Cup qualifier against Peterborough United. Spalding led 2-0 with ten minutes to go before Posh fought back to draw and win the replay 3-0. The Tulips lifted the Lincolnshire Senior A Cup the following year and twice reached the FA Cup First Round – against Durham City in 1957/58, and in 1964/65, when they faced Football League opposition for the first time, losing 5-3.
In the league, Spalding were United Counties League runners-up three years running (1951–53) before winning the title in 1955 Spells followed in the Eastern Counties League, Central Alliance, and Midland League before returning to the UCL in 1968 and winning the championship again in 1975
The late 1980s brought an FA Vase quarter-final in 1989/90 against Guiseley, featuring exEngland striker Frank Worthington, with 2,020 fans watching an extra-time defeat Another Vase quarter-final came in 1998, losing 2-1 to eventual winners Tiverton Town before an even bigger crowd of 2,038. The following year saw a clean sweep – UCL champions, Lincolnshire A Cup and Hinchingbrooke Cup winners – earning a return to the Southern League in 1999/2000.
A link-up with Spalding Athletic JFC in 2011/12 brought a youth pathway, though that season ended in relegation The Tulips bounced back with a UCL Knockout Cup win in 2012/13 and the league title in 2013/14, alongside the appointment of CEO Malcolm Gray Back in the Evo-Stik NPL, Spalding impressed in 2014/15 (7th) and launched an under-18 team The 2016/17 season was historic – finishing 3rd, the club’s highest-ever step-four finish, and three players made the Division’s Team of the Year
After a difficult 2018/19, the club underwent a major restructure in 2019, bringing in new investors Manager Matt Easton stepped down in December 2019, with Lewis Thorogood taking over before COVID curtailed the season. A new era began in 2020 as AK Holdings, led by Andrew Killingsworth, took ownership and appointed Leigh Porter as CEO. Porter spearheaded key initiatives, including reconnecting the club with its youth teams.
The Tulips looked to push on under Gabby Zakuani in 2021/22, before Brett Whaley steadied the ship mid-season In 2022/23, Spalding started unbeaten until January and reached the Lincolnshire Senior Trophy Final, but fell short in the play-off final at Halesowen after an injury-time equaliser and extra-time heartbreaker Elliot Sandy, who stepped in as interim, earned the job permanently
HISTORY OF SPALDING UNITED
The hard work paid off in April 2024, when Spalding won the Northern Premier League Midlands Division on the final day in front of 1,730 fans, sealing promotion to Step 3 with a stunning 8-0 win Major ground upgrades followed – new dugouts, tunnel, a 100-seat stand and 40m covered terrace – to meet Step 3 standards The club’s first season at this level ended with a 7th-place finish in the Southern League Premier Central
After a tough start to the 2024/25 season, the Tulips appointed Jimmy Dean, former Peterborough Sports promotion-winner and Scunthorpe United manager, to lead the next chapter With a strong squad, passionate supporters, and deep community roots, Spalding United is building towards a bright future at Step 3 and beyond.
That same year, the club’s off-field impact was recognised as Spalding United won both the Lincolnshire FA Club of the Year and the South Holland Community Sports Group Award for its outstanding community work. From free U16 and senior tickets to food bank collections, coffee mornings, and local outreach, the Tulips have worked hard to make football a force for good Volunteers remain the club’s heartbeat, from the organisation and running of match days, painting fences & general maintenance around the ground, to the running and coaching of the youth section
Looking ahead, further transformation is on the way in 2025/26 with the installation of a brand-new 3G pitch, generously funded by owner Andrew Killingsworth This upgrade will provide over 20 youth teams with a winter training base in the heart of Spalding, ensuring a strong pathway for future generations.
The 2025/26 season will also see the introduction of a senior ladies team, led by Liam Parish & Natasha Buckland, marking a major step forward for the club’s inclusivity and growth. In addition, a midweek Under-18 team will compete in the Thurlow Nunn Youth League – the first Spalding United youth side ever to enter the FA Youth Cup
