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  United Counties League Division One

Saturday 3 October 2026 | Stapleford Town

SHORT STUNNER EARNS PARISHINERS A POINT

Selston made the short trip to Stapleford Town looking to build on last weekend's dramatic late victory over Dronfield Town, with Lee Stevenson making three changes to the starting line-up. Ty Short, Tom Batterham and Nick Hines came into the side, replacing Leighton Bowering, Logan Green and the injured Arthur Pashley.

Stevenson himself was named among the substitutes after missing last weekend's victory following the birth of his new son.

The opening half was a tight and combative affair, with both sides battling hard in midfield but struggling to produce much in the way of clear-cut opportunities.

The deadlock was finally broken on 31 minutes when Stapleford were awarded a free-kick out wide on the left. The delivery was swung into the Selston box, where Kieran Walker lost his marker, rose highest and glanced a header across goal and into the bottom corner to give the hosts the lead.

Stapleford 1–0 Selston.

The advantage lasted just six minutes. On 37 minutes, the referee pointed to the spot after hesitation in the Stapleford defence allowed Jack Cockram to put his head where it hurts. The Selston skipper took a kick to the face in the process, but after receiving treatment he dusted himself down and took responsibility from 12 yards. Cockram made no mistake, calmly sending the penalty into the bottom corner to restore parity.

1–1.

The half-time score was a fair reflection of a closely fought opening 45 minutes, with the hosts picking up three bookings while Selston surprisingly escaped without a caution.

The second half began with Stapleford immediately on the front foot, and Tom Cox was called into action almost immediately, producing three saves in quick succession to keep Selston level.

The pressure eventually told on 59 minutes when the hosts regained the lead. A fierce strike from distance appeared to deceive Cox and flew into the net.

Stapleford 2–1 Selston.

The Parishiners responded well and began to push for another equaliser.

On 67 minutes, Green replaced Ben Moore, and just moments later Selston got themselves back on level terms in spectacular fashion.

Ty Short picked up possession around 30 yards from goal and embarked on a mazy run, seemingly taking on the entire Stapleford defence before advancing into the box and calmly slotting the ball home.

A stunning individual goal.

2–2.

Batterham was booked on 71 minutes before making way for Joe Naylor on 79, with Selston continuing to search for a winner.

Further changes saw Mason England and Leighton Bowering introduced for Jordan Black and the tiring Colt Reynolds as both sides committed men forward.

The hosts came agonisingly close to snatching all three points in the dying moments, but Lee Stevenson — who had entered the action as a late substitute — produced a crucial goal-line clearance to preserve Selston's share of the spoils.

The final whistle confirmed a hard-fought 2–2 draw, with both teams having their moments in a combative encounter.

On reflection, a point was probably a fair outcome, with both sides showing plenty of endeavour and refusing to settle for anything less than a victory.

Selston now turn their attention to another difficult challenge on Tuesday evening when league leaders Clipstonevisit The Parish.

THE MANAGER'S VIEW — LEE STEVENSON

“I think a draw is probably a fair result in the end. It was a really competitive game and both teams had spells where they looked like they could go on and win it.

“We didn't really get going in the first half. It was a tight midfield battle and there wasn't a great deal of quality in the final third, but we showed good character to come from behind twice.

“The second goal from Ty was outstanding. He's picked the ball up a long way from goal, driven through their team and finished it brilliantly. That's the sort of individual quality that can change a game.

“Cox kept us in it early in the second half with some excellent saves, and then right at the end we've had to make a big clearance off the line to make sure we come away with something.

“Overall, I think we'll take the point. We're disappointed because we always want to win, but Stapleford are a good side and it was a proper battle. We've got another huge test on Tuesday against the league leaders, so we'll recover quickly and get ready for that.”

PLAYER OF THE MATCH - Ty Short

Selston Football Club is inviting the whole community to The Parish for a special weekend of football, entertainment and family activities as the club expands its annual Chairman’s Day into a two-day event.

With Selston FC now having teams playing across both Saturdays and Sundays, the club has taken the decision to extend the traditional Chairman’s Day to a full Chairman’s Weekend, giving even more players, families, supporters and members of the local community the opportunity to take part.

The event will take place across Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th September at The Parish, with junior football being played on the mornings of both days.

Saturday’s programme will culminate with Selston FC’s First Team taking on Dronfield Town FC at 3pm, in the United Counties League Division One.

Away from the pitch, there will be plenty happening throughout the day, including a BBQ, all-day bar, inflatables and entertainment, helping to make it an event for the whole family.

Entry will be completely FREE throughout both days, giving everyone in the village the opportunity to come along, enjoy the football and experience the club.

The celebrations continue on Sunday with another full programme of junior football and a particularly special fixture at 2pm, when former players come together for a Legends Game celebrating Ben and Sean reaching the remarkable milestone of 500 games for Selston FC.

The weekend is designed to celebrate not only football, but the players, volunteers, families, supporters and local community who make Selston FC what it is.

Selston FC Chairman, James Naylor said:

Chairman’s Day has always been an important date in the club calendar, and with so many of our teams  playing on Sundays as well as Saturdays, we wanted to make the event as inclusive as possible.

“Turning it into Chairman’s Weekend means more of our junior players, senior players, families and supporters can be part of it.

“The weekend is really about bringing the whole club and village together. We’re particularly looking forward to Sunday’s Legends Game and recognising Ben and Sean for the fantastic achievement of reaching 500 games for Selston FC.

“We’d love to see as many people as possible come down to The Parish and be part of what should be a brilliant community weekend.”

United Counties League Division One

Saturday 19 September 2026 | The Parish

PARISHINERS DOMINATE BUT HAVE TO SETTLE FOR A POINT

A sunny afternoon at The Parish saw an expectant crowd gather for a mid-table United Counties League Division One clash, with Selston looking to build on their recent league performances.

Lee Stevenson and Ben Moore made four changes to the starting XI, with Ty Short, Colt Reynolds, George Layton and Arthur Pashley coming into the side, while Leighton Bowering dropped to the bench.

With Selston kicking down the slope, the opening minutes were frantic as both sides looked to establish control. It was the home side who soon began to stamp their authority on the contest.

On seven minutes, a driving run from Short saw the defender thread a delightful ball through to George Layton, who found himself one-on-one with the Clifton goalkeeper, only to see his effort agonisingly drift wide.

Four minutes later, excellent work down the left from Pashley released Jake Payling, whose driven ball across the six-yard box evaded everyone before being cleared by a Clifton defender.

Selston were beginning to dominate possession and territory, although Clifton remained dangerous. Connor Randell came close on 16 minutes with a curling effort that flew narrowly wide of the far post.

Pashley was at the heart of everything good from Selston and, on 19 minutes, he threaded Jack Cockram through on goal. The skipper finished the move, only for the offside flag to deny him.

A minute later, Clifton almost broke the deadlock, but Tom Cox produced a stunning save to turn the effort around the post.

Despite Selston controlling proceedings, it was the visitors who took the lead on 34 minutes. Short was adjudged to have brought down the Clifton striker inside the area, and Riece Bertram made no mistake from the penalty spot.

Against the run of play, Selston found themselves behind.

The Parishiners continued to press before the break. Ben Moore saw a shot somehow kept out on the goal line following a dangerous Payling corner, before another raking ball from Short sent Reynolds through, with his effort striking the side netting.

Half-time: Selston 0–1 Clifton All Whites.

The second half followed the same pattern, with Selston immediately on the front foot and producing some of their best football of the season.

The equaliser finally arrived on 55 minutes. More excellent work from Pashley created the opening, with his pinpoint cross finding Cockram, who calmly side-footed the ball beyond the goalkeeper and into the net.

1–1.

From there, it was largely one-way traffic. Cockram delivered a dangerous cross on 62 minutes which found Elliott Bland, but his effort sailed over the bar.

Jordan Black replaced Layton on 65 minutes and immediately made an impact, helping release Cockram down the wing, although once again the skipper's excellent cross went begging.

The contest began to become increasingly niggly, with Ben Moore and Clifton's Rubens Wiggen-Thomas both booked following a tussle on 70 minutes.

Five minutes later, Cox launched a long free-kick towards Payling, who headed down into the path of Pashley, but the winger could only fire over.

Then came a dramatic late spell.

On 85 minutes, a strong challenge from Clifton's Tyrone Burton on Black sparked a confrontation, with players from both sides quickly involved. After the pushing and shoving, the referee produced a red card for Clifton captain Burton.

With the visitors reduced to ten men, Selston pushed forward in search of a winner. Bowering replaced Reynolds in the 94th minute, and two minutes later Selston had the final opportunity of the afternoon. Cockram's inswinging corner ricocheted around the penalty area before Short's cross found Bland, but his header lacked the power to beat the Clifton goalkeeper.

The final whistle brought the contest to an end at 1–1.

Selston had dominated large periods of the match and produced some of their best football of the season, but ultimately had to settle for a point after failing to turn their superiority into three points.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH — ARTHUR PASHLEY

A constant threat down the Clifton left, Pashley was at the heart of Selston's best attacking play. His movement, delivery and willingness to take defenders on caused problems throughout, with his pinpoint cross providing the assist for Cockram's equaliser.

Manager Lee Stevenson said:

“It's another game where the result doesn't really reflect the performance. I thought we were excellent for large parts of that game and, particularly in the second half, some of the football we played was probably the best we've produced this season.

“We dominated possession, created chances and kept putting Clifton under pressure. To go in at half-time behind was frustrating because we'd been the better side, but I was really pleased with the response.

“Arthur was excellent today and caused them problems all afternoon, and the goal was exactly what we deserved after the pressure we'd been building.

“At 1–1 and against ten men, we're disappointed not to have found the winner. That's the next step for us — we've got to turn these performances into three points.

“There are plenty of positives to take. The football was good, the attitude was good and we showed plenty of character. We're just missing that final bit to get us over the line.”

Selston are next in action on the 26th September when Dronfield Town are the visitors to the Parish for a 3pm Kick off which also see’s the clubs annual Chairman’s day event with football and activities on all day for the whole community. 

United Counties League Division One

Saturday 12 September 2026 | The Parish

SWIFT STRIKE LEAVES SELSTON FRUSTRATED

After two disappointing cup defeats, Selston returned to United Counties League Division One action on Saturday as Sandiacre Town made the trip to The Parish.

Lee Stevenson was forced into a reshuffle due to player unavailability, making seven changes to the starting XI. Jake Payling, Josh Smith, Ben Moore, Jack Cockram, Alex “Boo” Hardman, Tom Batterham and Leighton Bowering all came into the side.

With perfect conditions for football, Selston started the afternoon playing up the slope, but it was the visitors who enjoyed the better of the opening exchanges and put the Parishiners on the back foot.

Selston, however, created the first real opportunity when Batterham found himself clear through on goal. Rather than shooting, he looked to square the ball, finding Elliott Bland, but the opportunity wasn't converted.

Sandiacre then had strong appeals for a penalty on 17 minutes when Payling came through the back of the visiting attacker, but the referee waved away the protests.

At the other end, Selston had an even stronger claim of their own. Good work down the right saw the ball delivered into the box, with Batterham's strike appearing to strike the arm of a Sandiacre defender. Despite widespread appeals, the referee again declined to award a penalty.

The game became increasingly scrappy as the half progressed, with neither side able to establish sustained control. A series of physical challenges went largely unchecked, adding to the frustration around the Parish.

With three minutes of the half remaining, Sandiacre took the lead. A poor Selston clearance fell to Thomas Swift, who struck a superb first-time volley from around 20 yards that flew beyond Tom Cox and into the net.

Ben Moore was booked a minute later for a challenge as Selston went into the interval 1–0 down.

The second half was a different story. Selston enjoyed the majority of possession and territory and began to put Sandiacre under sustained pressure. Batterham, Bowering and Cockram all went close as the Parishiners pushed for an equaliser.

At the other end, Selston's defence remained resolute, limiting the visitors to efforts from distance which failed to seriously trouble Cox.

As the match wore on, however, it descended into an increasingly tetchy and physical affair. The lack of control from the referee earlier in the contest had allowed tensions to rise, and the game became fragmented with neither side able to create a clear-cut opening.

Despite Selston's second-half pressure, the equaliser would not come.

The final whistle confirmed a frustrating 1–0 defeat — Selston's third home defeat in seven days.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH — JOSH SMITH

A typically commanding performance from the Selston defender, who worked tirelessly throughout and provided composure and authority in the heart of the defence.

THE MANAGER'S VIEW

“It's frustrating because I don't think the performances have been as bad as the results suggest. We're playing okay and, in the last few games, I genuinely feel we've been the better team for large periods.

“We've just got to start turning those performances into results. That's the difference at this level — you can play well, but ultimately you have to put the ball in the net and make sure you don't give the opposition opportunities.

“Today was another game where I thought we had enough to get something from it, particularly in the second half. We pushed, created opportunities and had plenty of the play, but we're not getting the reward for the work we're putting in.

“We've got to stay positive, keep working and make sure we turn this around. The performances are there; now we need the results.”

Deeping Rangers win 6–5 on penalties

United Counties League Knockout Cup – Extra Preliminary Round

Saturday 5 September 2026 | The Parish

Selston FC's long-awaited return to the Parish ended in heartbreaking fashion as Step 5 Deeping Rangers progressed to the next round of the United Counties League Knockout Cup following a 6–5 penalty shootout victory after a 1–1 draw.

After eight consecutive away fixtures, the return to home soil was made possible by tremendous work from the club's volunteers, who had worked tirelessly to ensure the Parish looked resplendent for the occasion in the autumn sunshine.

Lee Stevenson and Ben Moore made five changes from Monday's defeat to Southwell, with Branon Meehan, Dec Whitton, Leighton Bowering, Nick Hines and Jordan Black returning to the starting XI. George Layton and Henley Haywood were named among the substitutes.

Playing up the slope in the first half, Selston faced sustained pressure from the Step 5 visitors, with Deeping spending long periods in the home half. However, a disciplined and organised defensive performance from the Parishiners restricted the visitors to very little in the way of clear-cut opportunities.

Half-Time: Selston FC 0–0 Deeping Rangers

Selston came flying out of the blocks after the interval and were rewarded within three minutes. On 48 minutes, Bowering's relentless pressing forced the Deeping goalkeeper into an attempted clearance which rebounded off the advancing midfielder and ricocheted into the back of the net.

Selston 1–0 Deeping Rangers.

The goal gave Selston further confidence and they began to take control of the contest. Alex 'Boo' Hardman was at the heart of everything, breaking up Deeping attacks and driving the hosts forward as Selston looked increasingly comfortable against their higher-level opponents.

Stevenson began to rotate his squad as Selston looked to protect their advantage. Elliott Bland replaced the tiring Jordan Black on 71 minutes, with Mason England coming on for captain Jack Cockram three minutes later. Arthur Pashley and George Layton were introduced on 79 minutes for Hines and goalscorer Bowering.

With the clock ticking down, Selston appeared to be heading for a deserved place in the next round. Then came the cruelest of twists.

On 90 minutes, a back pass put Meehan under pressure. The Selston goalkeeper attempted to take a touch around the advancing Deeping attacker, but the ball became caught under his feet and fell kindly to the visiting striker, who made no mistake from close range.

Selston 1–1 Deeping Rangers.

With no further time to find a winner, the tie went directly to penalties.

Both sides showed composure from the spot, with some excellent penalties being dispatched. At 3–2, Meehan produced a superb save to his right to put Selston in the driving seat.

However, Payling saw his subsequent penalty saved, bringing the shootout level once again.

The spot kicks continued with both teams finding the net before Arthur Pashley saw his effort saved by the Deeping goalkeeper, allowing the visitors to convert the decisive penalty and claim a 6–5 shootout victory.

Full-Time: Selston FC 1–1 Deeping Rangers
Deeping Rangers win 6–5 on penalties

A desperately frustrating afternoon for Selston, who had put themselves in an excellent position against a Step 5 opponent and looked to have done enough to see the game out before a late mistake forced penalties.

Man of the Match – Alex 'Boo' Hardman

A commanding display from Hardman in the centre of the park. His energy, tackling and ability to drive Selston forward were central to the home side's excellent second-half performance.

Manager's Comment – Lee Stevenson

“I'm absolutely gutted for the lads. We've played a Step 5 side today and for large periods, particularly in the second half, we looked the better team and deserved to be going through.

“When we scored, we were in complete control. We defended well, worked incredibly hard and created the situation where we should have been seeing that game out comfortably.

“That's what makes the way we've lost it so frustrating. We've got ourselves into a winning position against a very good side and then we've effectively handed them a way back into the game right at the end.

“The penalty shootout is always a lottery. We had the chance to win it after Branon made a fantastic save, but unfortunately it wasn't to be.

“There are plenty of positives to take from the performance, but the lads are hurting because they know that was an opportunity we should have taken. We have to learn from it, pick ourselves up and move forward.”  

  United Counties League Division One

Saturday 29 August 2026

Selston FC produced a superb second-half comeback to claim all three points against fellow promoted side Cotgrave, with Leighton Bowering heading home twice to complete a dramatic 2–1 victory in wet and blustery conditions.

Following last weekend's hard-earned point away at promotion-chasing Sleaford Town, Lee Stevenson and Ben Moore made four changes to the starting XI. Jordan Black, Colt Reynolds and George Layton were brought into the starting line-up, while Tom Batterham returned to the squad. Leighton Bowering also returned from holiday and took his place on the bench.

The opening half was a combative affair, but Selston were the side making most of the running. The visitors controlled much of the possession and created the better opportunities, only to find the Cotgrave goalkeeper in inspired form, producing two excellent saves to keep the game goalless.

Half-Time: Cotgrave FC 0–0 Selston FC

Selston continued on the front foot after the interval and came agonisingly close to taking the lead when Tom Batterham unleashed a vicious effort which cannoned back off the post.

It proved to be a warning Cotgrave failed to heed, but against the run of play it was the hosts who struck first on 56 minutes. A shot from the edge of the box took a deflection and fell kindly to Ryan Smith, who calmly finished from 12 yards to put Cotgrave 1–0 ahead.

Stevenson immediately looked to his bench, bringing on Arthur Pashley for Layton on 59 minutes before introducing the returning Bowering for Jordan Black on 70.

The changes paid dividends.

Pashley worked tirelessly down the right and forced a corner on 73 minutes. Captain Jack Cockram delivered another pinpoint set piece into the danger area and Bowering rose highest, powering a superb header into the net to level the scores.

Cotgrave 1–1 Selston.

Selston sensed the winner and continued to push. Reynolds picked up a yellow card on 79 minutes as the visitors' determination and desire to take all three points remained clear.

Then, right at the death, came the decisive moment.

Tom Batterham won a free kick deep inside the Cotgrave half and, once again, Cockram delivered an inch-perfect ball into the box. And once again, Bowering was there.

The midfielder rose above the Cotgrave defence and produced a deft header which dropped perfectly into the bottom corner, sparking huge celebrations among the travelling Selston supporters.

Full-Time: Cotgrave FC 1–2 Selston FC

A magnificent comeback and a deserved reward for Selston's dominance and persistence. After falling behind against the run of play, the Parishiners showed tremendous character to turn the game around and secure another valuable three points.

Player of the Match – Leighton Bowering

A sensational impact from Bowering following his return from holiday. Coming off the bench, he delivered when it mattered most with two excellent headers, but his contribution went beyond the goals as he provided energy, composure and a constant attacking threat during the closing stages.

Manager's Comment – Lee Stevenson

“That's a fantastic three points and probably one of the most satisfying wins we've had because of the way we had to earn it.

“We dominated large parts of the game and created enough chances to be ahead, but we found ourselves 1–0 down to a deflected shot. At that point it would have been easy to become frustrated, but the lads kept believing and kept playing.

“Bowering coming on and scoring two headers is a brilliant story, but the credit goes to the whole group. Jack's deliveries were outstanding, Pashley worked his socks off to create the first corner and Tom winning that free kick for the winner was another important moment.

“We're starting to see the character of this group. We've had a difficult opening run against some very good sides, but the performances and the togetherness have been there. Today we got the reward for that hard work.

“We have to enjoy it, but we're not getting carried away. We're back on the road again at Southwell on Monday and we'll prepare properly and go again.”

United Counties League Division One

Saturday 22 August 2026 | Attendance: 160

Selston FC battled to a hard-earned point at the BPH Stadium as they drew 1–1 with landlords Sleaford Town in another competitive United Counties League Division One encounter.

Following last weekend's disappointing FA Vase defeat to Heanor, Lee Stevenson made several changes to his starting XI. Tom Cox returned in goal in place of the unavailable Branon Meehan, while Ty Short, Nick Hines and Mason England came into the side. New signing Jordan Black was named among the substitutes.

The opening 20 minutes were tense and closely fought, with neither side prepared to give the other any real advantage. Sleaford eventually broke the deadlock on 21 minutes when a throw-in found Lewis Smith inside the area. The striker held off Josh Smith before turning and finishing low into the bottom corner.

Selston responded almost immediately. Just two minutes later, good work down the right created an opening for captain Jack Cockram, whose dangerous cross was only partially dealt with by the Sleaford goalkeeper. Alex Hardman was quickest to react, taking one touch before smashing the ball home to restore parity.

The remainder of the first half became increasingly scrappy, with both teams cancelling each other out and clear-cut opportunities at a premium.

Half-Time: Sleaford Town 1–1 Selston FC

The second half continued in much the same vein, with Selston producing a battling display against a physical Sleaford side. Ty Short was booked on 61 minutes for a strong challenge as the contest continued to ebb and flow.

Stevenson turned to his bench on 71 minutes, introducing new signing Jordan Black for Pashley and Colt Reynolds for the once again impressive Elliott Bland. Jake Payling, who was outstanding throughout, was then booked on 77 minutes after making an important challenge to halt a promising Sleaford attack.

George Layton was introduced for Hines as Selston looked for a late winner, and it was Layton who almost provided it, seeing a vicious dipping effort from around 20 yards narrowly miss the target.

Sleaford also pushed for victory and came agonisingly close when a late strike looked destined for the corner, only for Tom Cox to produce a superb diving save to his left, getting a strong hand to the ball and turning it around the post.

With both teams still searching for the decisive goal, Reynolds picked up a late yellow card in the 93rd minute after becoming involved in a tussle with a Sleaford midfielder.

The final whistle eventually brought an end to a fiercely contested encounter, with the points shared.

Full-Time: Sleaford Town 1–1 Selston FC

Player of the Match – Jake Payling

A composed and committed performance from Payling, who was excellent defensively and showed the determination and discipline required in a fiercely competitive game.

  Joint Manager's Comment – Ben Moore

“It was a proper battle today and I think a draw was probably a fair result. We knew Sleaford would make it difficult for us, particularly with the familiarity of playing at their ground, and there wasn't much between the sides.

“I'm really pleased with the reaction from the lads after last weekend’s defeat which was disappointing despite how we played. We continue to show a lot of fight and togetherness, and we defended well when we needed to, which is pleasing to see. 

“Tom made a couple of really important saves and Alex reacted brilliantly for our goal. We had opportunities to win it late on, but so did they, so we'll take the point.

“We're still building and integrating new players into the squad, but the character within the group is very good. We keep working and looking forward.”

United Counties League Division One

Saturday 8 August 2026

Selston FC secured their first victory of the United Counties League Division One campaign with an impressive 3–1 away win at Pinchbeck United, overcoming extreme heat and a depleted squad to return from one of the longer journeys of the season with all three points.

It was Selston's third game in just eight days, and Manager Lee Stevenson was forced into six changes to his starting XI. Stevenson himself and Assistant Manager Sean Gregory were both named amongst the substitutes as the squad was stretched by injuries and availability.

Despite the testing conditions, Selston started brightly and were rewarded for their positive approach after just nine minutes.

It was a crazy passage of play which initially saw Pinchbeck come close to opening the scoring, only for Branon Meehan to produce an excellent save. Selston immediately turned defence into attack, and Colt Reynolds, returning to the side, chased down the home goalkeeper near the touchline. Reynolds won possession before showing tremendous composure to curl the ball into the vacant net from distance and give Selston the lead.

The visitors doubled their advantage on 19 minutes. Excellent work from the industrious Elliott Bland opened the space for Arthur Pashley on the left, with the winger pulling the ball back into the path of Ty Short. Short took a touch before calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner from 10 yards to score his second goal of the campaign.

Selston looked in complete control during the opening 25 minutes, but the hosts gradually worked their way back into the contest. Louis Garner picked up possession inside the Selston box and produced a smart finish across Meehan and into the bottom corner.

The goal gave Pinchbeck renewed belief and, with the visitors having taken their foot off the gas, the half-time whistle came at a useful moment for Stevenson to reorganise his side.

Half-Time: Pinchbeck United 1 – 2 Selston FC

Selston emerged for the second half much more organised and immediately regained control. The visitors pressed for a third goal to give themselves breathing space and were eventually rewarded on 73 minutes.

Bland once again played a key role, sending a teasing ball into the box which found Jack Cockram. The skipper's angled effort from eight yards was parried by the goalkeeper, but Leighton Bowering was quickest to react, scrambling the rebound home from close range to restore Selston's two-goal advantage.

With players tiring in the intense heat, Stevenson made further changes to protect the lead, bringing Wayne Cooke on for Bowering before George Layton returned from suspension to replace the impressive Short.

Selston's fitness and organisation proved crucial during the closing stages as they comfortably managed the game and saw out the final minutes to secure a thoroughly deserved first win of the season.

The victory provides an important boost after a difficult opening fortnight and gives Selston momentum heading into their next fixture.

Full-Time: Pinchbeck United 1 – 3 Selston FC

Man of the Match – Elliott Bland

A superbly industrious performance from Bland, combining his usual battling qualities with a controlled display in midfield. He continually looked to drive Selston forward and played a key role in the build-up to two of the goals.

Manager's Comment – Lee Stevenson

“That was a really important win for us, especially given the circumstances. Three games in eight days, a long journey, extreme heat and a squad that is currently stretched — the lads deserve enormous credit.

“The first 25 minutes were excellent and we could have been even further ahead, but we probably took our foot off the gas a little and allowed them back into the game. We addressed that at half-time and I thought the second half was much more professional.

“The fitness levels were excellent considering what the lads have been asked to do, and we managed the game really well towards the end. Elliott was outstanding today, but it was a proper team performance.

“Most importantly, we've got that first win on the board. Now we need to build on it.”

  United Counties League Division One

Saturday 1 August 2026

Selston FC's search for their first points of the new United Counties League Division One season continued as they suffered a 2–0 defeat away to local rivals South Normanton Athletic on a hot afternoon in Derbyshire.

Manager Lee Stevenson was forced into two changes from the opening-day defeat at Harrowby United. New signing Tom Cox, who recently joined from Melbourne Dynamo, was handed an immediate debut in goal in place of the unavailable Branon Meehan, while Mason England returned to the starting line-up for the holidaying Jake Payling. Striker Tom Batterham was named amongst the substitutes for the first time this season.

The hosts made the perfect start, taking the lead after just two minutes. A hopeful ball forward found the feet of the South Normanton striker, and as he looked to turn, Ty Short inadvertently clipped his heels inside the area. Referee pointed straight to the penalty spot, and Deveraux calmly converted beyond the diving Cox to hand the home side an early advantage.

The remainder of the first half developed into a fiercely contested midfield battle. Selston gradually grew into the game and enjoyed the better spell of possession, but found themselves frustrated by a series of robust challenges from the hosts. One of the visitors' first strong tackles, by Colt Reynolds, resulted in a yellow card, much to the frustration of the travelling support.

Selston fashioned several promising openings without making the breakthrough. Nick Hines raced onto an excellent through ball from Ben Moore, only for his final touch to let him down, while Arthur Pashley also found space inside the penalty area but opted to cut inside rather than shoot, allowing the opportunity to disappear.

Having looked the more likely side to score, Selston were dealt a significant blow on the stroke of half-time. On 43 minutes, South Normanton patiently worked the ball through midfield before slipping a perfectly weighted pass between the central defenders for Alex Seale, who kept his composure to slot beyond Cox and double the advantage.

Half-Time: South Normanton Athletic 2 – 0 Selston FC

Selston responded positively after the interval and continued to press for a route back into the contest. While they enjoyed long spells of possession, the visitors struggled to turn their territorial advantage into clear-cut chances. Hines again threatened on a couple of occasions, while Ty Short produced a powerful driving run from deep before seeing his effort comfortably gathered by the home goalkeeper.

Despite their endeavour and commitment, Selston were unable to seriously test the South Normanton defence, who stood firm to preserve their clean sheet.

The final whistle confirmed a second successive defeat to begin life back in the United Counties League, but there were enough encouraging passages of play to suggest the points will soon follow once the final-third quality improves.

Full-Time: South Normanton Athletic 2 – 0 Selston FC

Player of the Match

Ben Moore – Led by example in midfield, showing composure on the ball and driving Selston forward throughout despite the result.

Manager's Comment – Lee Stevenson

"It's another frustrating afternoon because I don't think the scoreline reflects the balance of the game. We gifted them an early goal, then conceded another at the worst possible time just before half-time, and that made the task incredibly difficult.

"There were plenty of positives in our general play. We competed well, moved the ball nicely for long periods and got ourselves into some good areas, but football is decided in both penalty boxes and that's where we need to improve. We have to be more ruthless when the chances come and cut out the mistakes that are costing us at the other end.

"We're only two games into a long season with a group that is still settling. Nobody is panicking. The attitude and work rate are there, and if we keep performing with that level of commitment, the results will come."

 Selston Football Club is delighted to announce a significant new commercial partnership with Survey Hub, who will become the club's Official Back of Shirt Sponsor for the 2026/27 season. 

 The partnership will see the Survey Hub logo proudly displayed on the back of both the First Team's home and away shirts as the club embarks on another exciting campaign in the United Counties League Division One. 

 Survey Hub is a leading provider of property, land and compliance surveying services, offering a comprehensive one-stop solution for residential, commercial and development projects across the UK. The partnership reflects both organisations' commitment to professionalism, growth and supporting local communities. 

 As one of the largest community organisations in the area, Selston FC provides football opportunities for over 200 players, from Soccer Tots through to Senior and Veterans football, whilst delivering a wide range of community events throughout the year. The club's digital presence has also continued to grow significantly, generating more than 250,000 social media impressions in a single month, providing partners with an excellent platform to increase brand awareness and engage with local audiences. 

The agreement represents another major step forward in the club's continued commercial development under its new leadership.

James Naylor, Chairman of Selston Football Club, said: "We are absolutely delighted to welcome Survey Hub to the Selston FC family as one of our principal partners for the coming season.

 From our very first conversations with Nathan and the team, it was clear that Survey Hub shares many of the values that make Selston FC such a special club—professionalism, ambition and a genuine commitment to supporting local communities. 

This partnership is about much more than having a logo on the back of our shirts. It's about building a long-term relationship where we can help raise the profile of Survey Hub through our growing audience, whilst their support enables us to continue investing in football opportunities for people of all ages across our community.

I'd like to personally thank Nathan and everyone at Survey Hub for believing in our vision, and we're incredibly proud to have them with us for what promises to be another exciting season."

Nathan Stone, Director at Survey Hub, added: "At Survey Hub, we're passionate about supporting organisations that make a genuine difference within their communities, and Selston Football Club is a fantastic example of that.

“The club's ambition both on and off the pitch, together with its commitment to grassroots football and community engagement, made this partnership an easy decision for us. We're excited to see our brand represented on the First Team shirts throughout the season and look forward to supporting the club as it continues to grow.”

The announcement continues an exciting period of growth for Selston FC as the club strengthens both its football operations and its commercial partnerships ahead of the new campaign.

Partnership Opportunities Still Available

A limited number of sponsorship and partnership opportunities remain available for the 2026/27 season, including pitchside advertising, player sponsorship, junior team partnerships, matchday sponsorship and bespoke commercial packages.

Businesses interested in partnering with one of the region's fastest-growing community football clubs are encouraged to contact the club

United Counties League Division One

Saturday 25 July 2026

Selston FC's return to the United Counties League Division One ended in defeat as Harrowby United claimed a 2–0 victory on the opening day of the new season.

Following last season's championship-winning campaign and promotion, Lee Stevenson and Ben Moore travelled to Lincolnshire for what was always expected to be one of the toughest opening fixtures against a Harrowby side relegated from the Premier Division. After an impressive pre-season and with the majority of the title-winning squad retained, optimism was high. The management team had also been strengthened by the arrival of the experienced Sean Gregory to the coaching staff, while Arthur Pashley returned to the club following a spell with Dronfield.

The opening exchanges were understandably cagey, with both teams treating the contest like a game of chess. Neither side was prepared to give an inch, and while Harrowby enjoyed slightly more possession and fashioned the better opportunities, Branon Meehan and the Selston defence remained resolute to ensure the game remained goalless at the break.

Half-Time: Harrowby United 0 – 0 Selston FC

The home side emerged with greater purpose after the restart and broke the deadlock on 52 minutes. A loose pass in midfield allowed Harrowby to break quickly, threading a through ball into the path of their winger, whose low cross found Kene Ukatu, who finished emphatically into the roof of the net.

Stevenson reacted immediately, introducing Henley Haywood for Alex Hardman on 63 minutes and pushing the impressive Ty Short into midfield in an attempt to add greater energy and drive.

However, just as Selston began to build some momentum, Harrowby struck again. Having already been denied by an excellent Meehan save moments earlier in an almost identical move, the hosts again played a direct ball over the top on 66 minutes. This time Sam Wright timed his run perfectly before calmly finishing beyond Meehan to double the advantage.

Selston continued to search for a route back into the contest. Leighton Bowering replaced Ben Moore, Mason Englandcame on for Colt Reynolds, and with time running out Stevenson made one final attacking gamble by introducing towering defender Dan Whitton for Jake Payling, pushing Whitton into a makeshift centre-forward role in search of a late breakthrough.

Despite plenty of endeavour and commitment, Selston were unable to trouble the Harrowby goal sufficiently. While the hosts enjoyed the lion's share of possession, it was two direct balls that ultimately proved decisive, and the visitors will know they must be more clinical and creative in the final third as the season develops.

Although the result was disappointing, there were positives to take from a disciplined first-half display against one of the division's fancied sides, and Selston will look to respond quickly as they continue their return to Step 6 football.

Manager's Comment – Lee Stevenson

"It was always going to be a difficult place to come on the opening day against a side that has dropped out of the Premier Division, and for 45 minutes I thought we were excellent. We were organised, disciplined and carried out the game plan really well.

"We're disappointed with the two goals because they're avoidable. We'd identified the threat of the direct ball, but we switched off at key moments and were punished.

"The effort and commitment from the lads was there for everyone to see, but in the final third we lacked that bit of quality and composure to really test them. It's a long season, we've got a great group here, and we'll learn quickly from today. There are plenty of positives to build on."