HATTERS SIGN HUNGARIAN DEFENDER KOVÁCS

Luton Town have signed Hungarian defender János Kovács from Lincoln City.

The Hatters had to beat off competition from a number of clubs for his signature, including that of Ferencvaros.

The Budapest-born, 24-year-old was released by the Imps a year-and-half at Sincil Bank and signs on a permanent contract until the end of the season.

The 6ft 4in centre back started his career in his native Hungary with home-town club MTK Hungária before joining Chesterfield in 2005 where he made 62 appearances and scored two goals.

After a brief loan spell at York City he made the switch to Lincoln in 2008.

Kovács made 66 appearances and netted four goals for the Imps and last season was named as their home player of the season after a campaign where he only missed one league fixture.

With the tranfer complete, the centre-half goes straight into the Hatters' squad to face Histon tonight.
Story date: Wednesday, January 27, 2010

MONEY TRANSFER LISTS EXPERIENCED TRIO

Luton Town manager Richard Money has very surprisingly transfer-listed experienced trio Kevin Nicholls, Kevin Gallen and Alan White.

All three players have been regulars this season, although White has fallen out of favour in recent weeks with Money.

Speaking of the decision to place him on the transfer-list, Gallen said, "I was brought into the office and told I was going to go on the transfer list and wasn't going to play any more. I wasn't going to be in the squad for the next game.

"He said I was too old and said he was going to play Tom Craddock and Matthew Barnes-Homer and said something about finances.

"It isn't very much to do with me, I'm not a big wage earner at Luton.”

Meanwhile, the Hatters have extended the loan spell of Dagenham & Redbridge forward Mark Nwokeji until the end of the season.
Story date: Wednesday, January 13, 2010

THREE OUT AND TWO IN FOR HATTERS

Luton Town manager Richard Money has had a busy day in the transfer market – the last day of the loan transfer window.

Money first snapped-up 19-year-old Coventry City winger Ashley Cain on loan. Cain, a pacy winger who can operate on either flank, made his senior debut for the Sky Blues in a 0-0 home draw with Charlton Athletic in April 2009. Just two months later, he signed a one-year professional contract at the Ricoh Arena.

His first start for Coventry came in August 2009 in a League Cup defeat to Hartlepool United.

After seven first-team appearances for the Sky Blues – mostly as a substitute – he joined the Hatters on a month’s loan in late November 2009, becoming manager Richard Money’s third loan signing since taking over at Kenilworth Road.

A pacy and tricky winger, there are high hopes for Ashley and he will be looking to make a positive impact at senior level during his stay in Bedfordshire.

Money followed up the signing of Cain with the acquisition of Kidderminster Harriers striker Matthew Barnes-Homer. The signing of the 23-year-old England ‘C’ international is somewhat of a coup for the Hatters, who beat off interest from promotion rivals Oxford United to secure his signature.

Barnes-Homer, who scored against the Hatters earlier in the season during Luton Town’s 2-1 win at Aggborough, has joined on loan initially until January 2009, when the transfer will become permanent for a fee of £75,000.

Birmingham-born Barnes-Homer began his career as a 15-year-old at Wolverhampton Wanderers, but he was released three years later at the end of the 2003–04 season.

He then endured a spell in the United States with Rochester Rhinos and Syracuse Salty Dogs before returning to England to join Aldershot Town in 2004, where he made two appearances.

He then joined Hednesford Town, where he made one substitute appearance, and was signed by Bromsgrove Rovers in April 2005 after impressing in Bromsgrove's reserve side.

After 19 appearances and 3 goals for Bromsgrove Rovers, he moved to Willenhall Town in August 2008, scoring a hat-trick on his debut against Stourbridge. After impressive performances for Willenhall Town, he joined League Two club Wycombe Wanderers in March 2007 after a successful trial at the Football League side.

However, after just one senior appearance for the Chairboys, he was one of several players released at the end of the 2006–07 season after Wycombe failed to reach the League Two play-offs.

After impressing on trial with Kidderminster Harriers, he moved to Aggborough in July 2007 and, after scoring seven goals during the 2007–08 season, he signed a new one-year contract in April 2008.

He soon became one of the most lethal strikers in the Blue Square Premier, attracting interest from a host of clubs and scoring on his debut for the England ‘C’ team in a 2-1 win over Poland November 2009.

After scoring 21 goals in all competions for Kidderminster Harriers in 2008-09, Barnes-Homer continued to find the net regularly during the 2009-10 campaign, notching 9 goals in 20 League appearances prior to his switch to Kenilworth Road.

A pacy and powerful striker, he left Kidderminster’s boss Mark Yates and the fans disappointed that he had left Aggborough.

A highly-rated striker, Money will be hoping that Barnes-Homer can fire the goals to earn Luton promotion this season.

As part of the deal that has seen the Hatters sign Barnes-Homer, young forward Ryan Charles has joined Kidderminster Harriers on a month’s loan. Charles scored the winner as the Hatters won 2-1 at Aggborough earlier this season.

In another very surprising move, winger Andy Burgess has left Luton Town on a permanent basis. The winger has joined promotion rivals Mansfield Town on loan until January, at which point he will sign permanently for the Stags on an 18-month deal.

He has made just 9 appearances for the Hatters since joining in the summer. The lifelong Hatters fan described his move to Kenilworth Road as “A dream come true”, having, along with his family, been a supporter of the club his whole life.

The Bedford-born midfielder joined the Hatters on a free transfer from Rushden & Diamonds and was given the task of providing some Non-League experience to a Hatters squad who were relegated from the Football League for the first time in their history after being deducted 30 points by the FA and Football League for financial irregularities.

Out-of-contract at the end of the 2008-09 season, Burgess was deemed too expensive to keep at Nene Park and he was released after 286 appearances and 29 goals during his two spells with Rushden & Diamonds and then Hatters manager Mick Harford moved swiftly to bring Burgess to Kenilworth Road on a two-year contract.
However, the move has not worked out and he has seemingly failed to impress new Luton Town manager Richard Money.

Finally, striker Steve Basham has signed for Hayes & Yeading on a two-month loan. Basham, who also only joined Luton Town in the summer, has had limited opportunities, but did score twice in his last outing in the 3-3 FA Cup home draw with Rochdale.
Story date: Thursday, November 26, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: ROCHDALE (AWAY): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of last Wednesday's FA Cup replay win at Rochdale by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Thursday, November 19, 2009

NEW LUTON TOWN BOOK AVAILABLE
A new book, written by Hatters fan Rob Hadgraft is available now...

The book, titled, 'Luton Town, Through the Trap Door' is available at £14.99.

The new book is a follow up to Hadgraft's 2008 publication, 'Luton Town: Staring into the Abyss'

More details can be seen below...


Story date: Monday, November 16, 2009

MONEY MAKES HIS FIRST SIGNINGS AS HATTERS BOSS

Luton Town manager Richard Money has made his first signings by taking Notts County goalkeeper Kevin Pilkington and Dagenham & Redbridge winger Mark Nwokeji on loan.

Pilkington, 35, has joined the Hatters on a month’s loan from Notts County, deputising for the injured Mark Tyler. However, with the recent fine performances of Shane Gore, it is by no means certain that Pilkington will come straight in between the sticks.

Born locally in Hitchin, Pilkington is highly experienced in the lower leagues having played in nearly 350 games in his time at Mansfield Town and Notts County.

He began his career at Manchester United, singing on as an apprentice at Old Trafford after leaving school in 1990. After featuring in their FA Youth Cup-winning side in 1992, he signed a professional deal.

He was unable to fully break through into the first-team, but made his senior debut for the Red Devils at the age of 20 in 1995 when he came on as a substitute for Peter Schmeichel in a 3-0 home win over Crystal Palace. His full debut came a fortnight later in a 1-1 draw with Chelsea.

After 2 further appearances that season, he joined Rochdale on loan in 1996, making 6 appearances before returning to Old Trafford.

He played no part in Manchester United's 1996–97 season, instead joining Rotherham United on a three-month loan in January 1997. He played seventeen games for the then Second Division (now known as the Championship) side, keeping just two clean sheets in a sub-par team that finished the season seventeen points adrift of safety from relegation.

Pilkington played two games of Manchester United's disappointing 1997–98 campaign. On Boxing day he kept goal in a 2–0 defeat of Everton, though two days later he conceded three at Highfield Road – Coventry City winning 3–2. He spent two months on loan with Scottish Premier League giants Celtic in April 1998, though never made the field.

In June 1998, he left Old Trafford, joining Port Vale on a free transfer. After just two years and only 23 senior appearances, he left Vale Park and joined Wigan Athletic in September 2000. After just six days with the Latics, he joined Mansfield Town – then in the bottom tier of the Football League.

He made the number one spot his own in 2001-02, helping the Stags gain promotion. In June 2005, after being a regular between the sticks at Field Mill for four years, he turned down the offer of a new deal and signed for rivals Notts County.

He was a regular between the sticks for the Magpies over the following four years, during which time he earned several awards and became known as a fine shot-stopper.

However, the signing of another veteran goalkeeper, Russell Hoult, saw fierce competition for the position, and the club record signing in 2009 of Kasper Schmeichel pushed him down to third choice goalkeeper at Meadow Lane.

After 141 appearances for the Magpies, he made the loan move to Kenilworth Road, pitching up in Bedfordshire as new Hatters boss Richard Money’s first signing.

Nwokeji, meanwhile, arrives on loan until January after recovering from a serious injury that has kept him sidelined since January. He has come to Kenilworth Road in order to gain match fitness.

27-year-old Nwokeji, who stands just 5 ft 3 tall, joins the Hatters after 16 senior appearances and 3 goals for the Daggers. Prior to becoming a footballer, Nwokeji was the 200m All-England Schoolboy champion.

He began his career with Chesham United, making 11 appearances and scoring 1 goal before moving to Walton & Hersham in 2003. He spent three years at The Sports Ground, scoring 18 goals in 67 appearances before a brief stint in 2006 with St Albans City, where he made just 2 appearances. He then move to Isthmian Premier outfit Staines Town, where he was also a law student. He had a highly successful spell at Wheatsheaf Park, bagging 45 goals in just 75 matches before being snapped up by Dagenham & Redbridge in May 2008.

He scored on his debut for the Daggers in a 6-0 win over Chester City.
Story date: Thursday, November 12, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: ROCHDALE (HOME) (FA CUP): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Saturday's home FA Cup draw with Rochdale by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Sunday, November 8, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: RUSHDEN & DIAMONDS (HOME): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Saturday's home defeat to Rushden & Diamonds by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Friday, November 6, 2009

HATTERS APPOINT MONEY AS BOSS AND BRABIN AS SCOUT

Luton Town have appointed former Walsall boss and ex-Hatters player Richard Money as the new manager.

Money leaves his role as Newcastle United's academy chief to succeed Mick Harford, who left Kenilworth Road earlier in October.

"I'm looking forward to getting stuck in," Money told the club's website. "There's a great base to build on."

In an impressive double coup, the Hatters have also appointed former Cambridge United manager Gary Brabin as chief scout, while caretaker boss Alan Neilsen stays on as assistant manager.

Money, 54, took over at Walsall in May 2006 and led the Saddlers to the League Two title in 2007.

He left the Banks's Stadium in April 2008 and moved to St James' Park in June that year.

The former Scunthorpe United boss arrives at Kenilworth Road with the Hatters lying fifth in the Blue Square Premier, eight points behind leaders Oxford United.

"I've seen the squad here and there is a huge amount of ability," he added.

"There's no doubt this team is capable of finishing top at the end of the season. That's my focus.

"I'm sure there will be changes to what people are used to, but no two managers are alike so you have to adapt to achieve success.

"Everything is in place to move forward and to move forward from a play-off place is a great place to start."

Meanwhile, Brabin, 38, joins Luton after being sacked as Cambridge manager in July.

The former Southport boss led the U's to the Blue Square Premier play-off final last season, which they lost 0-2 to Torquay United at Wembley, but he was subsequently axed with the club citing a difference of opinion over the playing budget.

"There's only one way to gain promotion and that's top spot," said Brabin.

"We have everything to play for - Oxford have got to come to us next spring and that's not going to be easy for them.

"There's a long way to go in this season and I want to be celebrating come May. This place is going to be rocking come the end of the season."

The Hatters have taken nearly a month to appoint Money as Harford's successor, but chief executive Gary Sweet defended the protracted nature of the process.

"Good and appropriate people do not grow on trees," said Sweet. "It was right to advertise properly and then give the serious applicants the professionalism of proper consideration.

"To have the knowledge, experience and achievements of these two men is fantastic for Luton Town.

"Everyone has their part to play so now we have to focus on that top spot. We have the team to do that in all departments now, and we have two-thirds of the season left.

"There's a lot of football to be played and we know what we want."

Money will take charge of Luton, who were relegated from the Football League last season, when Rushden and Diamonds visit Kenilworth Road on Saturday.

Alan Neilson and Kevin Watson, who did so well in their caretaker roles since Harford left, will remain at the club as assistant manager and first-team coach respectively.
Story date: Friday, October 30, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: GRAYS ATHLETIC (HOME): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Saturday's comfortable home win over Grays Athletic in the FA Cup by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Thursday, October 29, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: YORK CITY (HOME): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Tuesday's home draw with York City by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Friday, October 23, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: ALTRINCHAM (AWAY): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Saturday's excellent away win over Altrincham by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Friday, October 23, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS (AWAY): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Saturday's excellent away win over Kidderminster Harriers by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: TAMWORTH (HOME): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Saturday's home win over Tamworth by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Thursday, October 8, 2009

WHO SHOULD BE THE NEXT LUTON TOWN MANAGER?

With Mick Harford departing Kenilworth Road today, now is your chance to vote for who YOU think should be the next Luton Town manager.

We will send your views to 2020 in the next couple of days.

Have your say now by visiting the link below on 'James and Batesy's Blue Square Premier Adventure'...

James and Batesy's Blue Square Premier Adventure: Who Should Be The Next Luton Town Manager? Vote Now!
Story date: Thursday, October 1, 2009

HATTERS PART COMPANY WITH MANAGER HARFORD

It is with great sadness that Lutonfc.com have to report that Luton Town manager Mick Harford has left the club by mutual consent.

The hugely popular Hatters boss leaves with the club eighth in the Blue Square Premier table. Performances this season had, to be fair, been very poor and it seems Tuesday night's dire 0-1 home loss to Stevenage Borough was the final straw for the 2020 consortim.

50-year-old Harford was at the helm for two successive relegations after the club were deducted points for administration and financial problems.

But Harford, who took over in January 2008, led Luton to Johnstone's Paint Trophy glory last season and the side are eighth in the Blue Square Premier.

First-team coach Alan Neilson has been named caretaker boss for Saturday's home game against Tamworth.

Luton chairman Nick Owen says that the decision to part with Mick Harford was inevitable.

He told BBC Three Counties Radio: "Obviously all the time the club is looking at how much it is achieving and whether we are keeping up with our targets on the playing side.

"It was an inevitable decision in a way, but a very, very difficult one. Mick is much loved by everyone at the club.

"He has come in for a lot of criticism, but he joined the club at a very difficult time, when we were in administration and he has had to use players that he wouldn't have signed himself and slowly but surely he has built his own squad.

"He has had to suffer horrendous points decisions - a total of 40 points deducted over the couple of years that he has been with us as a manager. Most managers wouldn't have even contemplated taking it on. His loyalty is unquestioned.

"We are very grateful for that and my admiration is undimmed.

"We want to make an appointment as quickly as possible, and we are getting onto that immediately. I don't know all the names that are on the list but there are people that we are thinking of."

Luton Supporters club vice-chairman Mark Chapman said: "He is a legend to all Luton Town fans because of his playing ability.

"Obviously the situation where he came in last year and took us out of a very difficult situation. In my opinion, he did superbly and we have got to thank him for the day out at the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final last year.

"I think that highlights the issues. He had the ability in a one-off game to motivate players and come up with tactics that beat higher division opposition but he seemed to lack the tactical nous to do it on a day-by-day league game basis as was highlighted on Tuesday night's performance.

"To be fair, Stevenage came prepared to play Luton, they knew the system that Luton were prepared to play, and they came with a system to beat that system. We didn't have an answer. I think ultimately that has been the downfall."

Luton have lost only three of their 13 league games this season but all of those defeats have come in their last five matches, denting their bid to return to the Football League at the first attempt.

Only the Blue Square Premier champions win automatic promotion and the Hatters are 13 points behind leaders Oxford United.

On behalf of Lutonfc.com, myself personally, and I am sure every Luton Town supporter out there, I would like to wish Mick Harford the very best for the future and I hope he is back in football soon. He is a true Luton Town legend and we cannot thank him enough for what he has done over the years for the Hatters.

You are a true gentleman, Mick, and have been a great ambassador for the club. You were a our greatest-ever player, a hero to us all, and you deserved more England caps than you two you were given. I am so sorry it didn't work out for you as a manager - you were very unfortunate with injuries and had no luck at all this season. Unfortunately, the players just did not perform for you this season, but we will always have the memories of Wembley last year.

Thank you for everything Mick - a true Luton Town hero.

James
Story date: Thursday, October 1, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: STEVENAGE BOROUGH (HOME): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Tuesday's dire home defeat to Stevenage Borough by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Wednesday, September 30, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: CAMBRIDGE UNITED (AWAY): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Saturday's trip to Cambridge United by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Wednesday, September 30, 2009

DREADFUL LUTON LOSE AT HOME TO STEVENAGE

Ordinary Luton Town paid the ultimate price for a lacklustre performance as they crashed to a late derby defeat against Stevenage Borough at Kenilworth Road.

Scott Laird's fierce drive five minutes from time proved to be decisive on a dire night for the Hatters.

Luton were outplayed for much of the evening by Boro, but possibly deserved a share of the spoils with George Pilkington hitting a post and substitute Claude Gnakpa being denied by a great late save by Chris Day.

Luton Town manager Mick Harford was forced into two changes from the side that beat Cambridge on Saturday for the visit of high-flying Stevenage Borough, but made three in total.

With target man Liam Hatch suspended and striker Kevin Gallen out with a shoulder injury, Tom Craddock came in to lead the line with lanky midfielder Asa Hall filling in just behind.

Captain Kevin Nicholls came straight back into the midfield after serving his three-match ban and fit-again Ed Asafu-Adjaye was preferred at right-back to Gnakpa.

There was also a place on the bench for Ben Wright, freshly signed by the Hatters on a one-month loan deal from Peterborough United.

Crowd congestion meant that the kick-off was delayed by 15 minutes for the first-ever league meeting between the two clubs and it was the visitors who made the brighter start without really creating anything of note.

Some shoddy defending almost let Boro in on 12 minutes when Andy Drury shrugged Alan White off the ball in the box, but a timely George Pilkington challenge turned the ball behind.

Hall looked lost in his more advanced position and the Hatters struggled to get their foot on the ball in the opening exchanges.

A great challenge by Adam Newton prevented Laird from getting in behind Luton's defence on 19 minutes as Stevenage continued to boss proceedings.

Drury was at the heart of everything for Stevenage but Charlie Griffin could only direct his header from the winger's cross softly at Mark Tyler on 22 minutes.

Laird fizzed well wide on the half-hour mark, but seconds later Luton could quite easily have taken the lead. Newton's forceful run created the opening and his powderpuff shot ran nicely for Hall who got there before Day, but the Stevenage stopper recovered to turn his close-range shot round the post.

And Luton got a huge let off with six minutes of the half left when it looked like Stevenage should have been awarded a penalty.

Mitchell Cole appeared to be upended by Asafu-Adjaye on the edge of the box, but referee I Smedley waved away Stevenage's appeals. Boro's players proceeded to chase the official around the pitch with Cole eventually being booked for dissent, just like Craddock had been four minutes earlier.

An ugly incident followed on the stroke of half-time when Nicholls was fouled by Darren Murphy. Luton's captain retaliated and received a yellow card for his indiscretion.

Mute applause and some boos greeted the half-time whistle as Luton went in at the break having been completely outplayed by their Hertfordshire neighbours.

Cole fired straight at Tyler as the second-half started the way the first had ended, but Luton improved as the game progressed.

Rossi Jarvis' cross was then cleared behind, but Howells could only half-volley over the bar from the subsequent corner.

Freddie Murray's deep cross picked out Newton on 53 minutes, but Laird was again in the right place to block his effort.

A curler from Drury brought a decent stop out of Tyler two minutes later, while Luton finally crafted a move of some merit on 58 minutes when Jarvis spread the play and Newton found Craddock, but he could only lash over the bar.

The Hatters began to up the tempo and find some fluency to their play, but Boro still looked dangerous in attack and almost breached Luton's defence on 64 minutes. Stevenage broke quickly and Chris Beardsley was left in acres of space on the right. Strangely he chose to cross rather than shoot and Asafu-Adjaye hacked away with Luton's defence at sixes and sevens.

However, the ball went straight back to Beardsley and Tyler produced a fabulous stop to repel the striker's powerful effort and the ball was hack behind.

The game had suddenly burst into life and Luton were inches away from taking the lead on 68 minutes. Craddock won a header in the box and Michael Bostwick's mis-kick left Pilkington in space just yards out, but his low shot smacked the right-hand upright when he should have found the back of the net.

And Boro made the breakthrough with just five minutes left. Gnakpa failed to track back and Town were caught short. Laird overlapped on to Eddie Odhiambo's through ball and the left-back lashed an unstoppable shot across the face of goal and into the far corner.

Craddock fly-kicked while Wright took too heavy a touch as he looked to race through late on. Day then pulled off a superb low stop to his right to deny Gnakpa in the fourth minute of injury-time as Luton lost their first home game and trudged off the pitch to a chorus of boos.

There followed some angry scenes after the final whistle with a number of supporters confronting the board and calling for Harford's head.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Wednesday, September 30, 2009

HARFORD: "IT WAS A REMARKABLE COMEBACK IN A REMARKABLE GAME"

"In terms of possession and chances I thought we were the better team.

"I think at half-time I was slightly disappointed with the way we had conceded two goals. The second one was very harsh and the sending off was, I think, Liam's (Hatch) first challenge.

"We sat the players down and said, 'we need a mammoth task from you'. The effort, workrate and commitment they put in was second to none and it was a remarkable comeback in a remarkable game.

"In all fairness I think we showed a lot of effort and commitment and workrate which was typified by Rossi Jarvis' goal which was good enough to grace any stadium.

"We believe and I believe we have better players and we took to our work manfully and it was a fantastic performance and a fantastic result.

"It's not just about the 10 and 11 lads who were out there today, it's about the squad and the family environment.

"I've got the belief in these players and in the fans to push them all the way.

"In the second-half at times they showed they are capable.

"I'm not surprised. It was a monumental effort and hopefully this is a precursor to get on some kind of run."
Story date: Sunday, September 27, 2009

SUPER LUTON COME FROM BEHIND TO WIN AT CAMBRIDGE WITH TEN MEN

A quite simply outstanding performance from Luton Town saw them claim an unbelievable 4-3 victory at the Abbey Stadium against Cambridge United.

Manager Mick Harford called for a reaction after Tuesday's sorry showing in North Wales against Wrexham and boy did he get it.

This game had it all. An abysmal referee, two penalties, a sending off and more drama than an ‘EastEnders’ omnibus.

The Hatters played superbly throughout, but somehow found themselves 0-2 behind and down to 10 men at the break after Liam Hatch had been sent off for two debatable bookings.

But terrific Luton never gave up, never flinched a tackle and played with the heart their manager used to show every week when wearing a Luton shirt.

Kevin Gallen led the line superbly, scoring twice. He netted Luton's first and then kept his cool to score the winner from the spot. Rossi Jarvis curled home a wonderful goal to level the scores at 2-2 before Jake Howells scored his first senior goal to put the Hatters ahead for the first time.

The U's levelled, but the Hatters were not to be denied as Gallen slotted home the penalty to secure victory.

The Hatters made one change from the horror show that saw them lose 0-3 at Wrexham on Tuesday night. Out-of-form striker Tom Craddock dropped to the bench with Howells coming in on the left of midfield as Luton reverted to a tried and trusted 4-4-2 formation.

The action started slowly, but Luton crafted the first chance on four minutes. Hatch caused problems in the box as he competed for Freddie Murray's long throw. Asa Hall fed Howells, but Danny Potter easily saved his shot on the turn from inside the area.

Former Luton Town winger Courtney Pitt looked lively on the left-hand side and he gave full-back Claude Gnakpa a torrid time in the opening minutes. And it was his bit of skill that sent Chris Holroyd free on seven minutes. He surged into the box before trying to fire a cross in along the six-yard box, only for George Pilkington to step in just in the nick of time.

Both sides were showing an attacking mentality with Luton enjoying more than their fair share of chances. A flowing Luton move saw Gallen release Gnakpa down the right who squared the ball back to the veteran striker on the edge of the box, but his effort drifted harmlessly over the bar.

The visitors then could have broken the deadlock on 14 minutes. Gallen and Howells battled well on the left before the young midfielder found Adam Newton in space on the edge of the box, but he side-footed just wide of the left-hand upright when he should really have hit the target.

And Luton were given a real kick in the teeth when the U's scored from their first shot of the game on 20 minutes. Mark Beesley controlled the ball on the right and his pass found the unmarked Pitt just inside the box, who squeezed his effort past the despairing dive of Mark Tyler.

Undeterred, Luton continued to force the pace. Gnakpa's 29th minute cross was won by Hatch but Jarvis could only fizz a left-footed half-volley over the bar from just outside the box.

Hall's trickery on the right then created a chance for Gallen, but his header was never going to have enough venom to trouble Potter.

A terrible refereeing decision then handed the U's their second goal from the penalty spot. Having already awarded the hosts a plethora of free-kicks, he then gifted them the most dubious of spot-kicks on 32 minutes.

Anthony Tonkin was allowed to burst into the box but, having been foiled and being shepherded away from the action, Alan White clearly prodded the ball away before Tonkin tumbled under his challenge.

Unbelievable referee Robert Madley pointed to the spot and, even though Tyler got a hand to Holroyd's powerful effort he was unable to keep the ball out of the net.

Hatch was booked for his protests and things got even worse for the beleaguered visitors two minutes before the break when the target man was handed his second yellow card as he made a sliding challenge on Cambridge skipper Paul Carden.

Controversy then erupted in the stands as sidelined Luton pair Kevin Nicholls and Lewis Emanuel were confronted by the home supporters in the main stand and had to be shepherded away before the break.

Despite having the odds stacked against them it took the Hatters just three minutes to pull a goal back. A forceful Murray run won Luton a corner and they finally got a break. Potter pushed White’s header from Jarvis’ corner off the line, but Gallen was on hand to scramble the ball into the roof of the net.

The visitors were then lucky not to have a second man sent to the stands when Gnakpa, already on a booking, was penalised for a foul on the right. For once, Madley saw common sense and instead of booking the Frenchman, gave him his final warning. Gnakpa was promptly replaced by Callum Reynolds.

Luton continued to dig deep as they forced the pace in the face of adversity and almost levelled on 58 minutes. Reynolds and Newton produced some neat play on the right before teeing up Gallen, but he dragged his shot just wide.

However, Luton got the reward their endeavour richly deserved on the hour with a fabulous strike. Jarvis was the architect and executioner as he drove forward from midfield, before exchanging passes with Gallen on the edge of the box and brilliantly curling past Potter.

Seconds later and Luton were ahead. A poor defensive header let Gallen in and, although his drilled effort was well saved by Potter, Howells was on hand to fire home his first senior goal.

The youngster, though, injured himself in the process and had to be replaced by Shane Blackett as Luton continued to bravely battle on.

Luton's lead, though, didn't last as the U's levelled on 66 minutes. Dan Gleeson's cross picked out Wayne Hatswell at the far post and although Tyler pulled off a brilliant stop to deny the centre-half Holroyd was on hand to slam the ball home past the helpless Tyler.

Still, the drama came thick and fast. First Blackett tumbled in the area when he had his short pulled, but nothing was given, before Luton were awarded a penalty with 16 minutes left when Blackett again tumbled in the area. Gallen, somehow, managed to keep his cool as he sent Potter the wrong way and rolled the ball home into the bottom right-hand corner.

The U's then went for broke as their manager Martin Ling made a treble substitution. There followed a frantic rearguard effort as the Hatters desperately tried to hold on to their lead. With three minutes left Brian Saah popped up just a few yards out, but Tyler somehow made up his ground to turn the ball round the post.

Holroyd sent a late effort straight at Tyler, but Madley blew his whistle early as the Hatters celebrated one of the most dramatic victories in their history.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Sunday, September 27, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: WREXHAM (AWAY): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Tuesday night's trip to Wrexham by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Thursday, September 24, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: BARROW (HOME): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of last Saturday's home clash with Barrow by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Sunday, September 20, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: OXFORD UNITED (AWAY): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Tuesday's away clash with Oxford United by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Sunday, September 13, 2009

HAPPY HATTERS CRUISE TO CRAWLEY WIN

Luton Town's top scorers struck again as the Hatters tore Crawley Town apart at Kenilworth Road.

Luton rediscovered their form in fantastic fashion as defender George Pilkington scored his second brace of the season and striker Tom Craddock added Luton's third as they went joint top of the Hatters' scoring charts with four goals apiece this season.

The emphatic victory was no more than Luton deserved, who bossed the game from start to finish and registered their fourth-consecutive clean sheet.

The Hatters were forced into one change from the team that drew 0-0 at Kettering Town on Saturday. With winger Andy Burgess having tweaked his hamstring, in came last season's Wembley hero Claude Gnakpa at right-back as manager Mick Harford went for the 4-3-3 formation that he employed to good effect last season.

Keith Keane moved into the centre of midfield and Adam Newton formed a front three along with Kevin Gallen and Craddock.

Keane made a bright start in his more advanced role, winning some early ball as Newton's third-minute effort was easily saved.

Luton enjoyed almost all of the possession and play in the early stages, without creating too many chances, although Freddie Murray did volley Newton's cross harmlessly over on 15 minutes.

A flowing move instigated by Gallen then cut the Red Devils open two minutes later, but Rossi Jarvis couldn't cleanly meet Newton's low cross.

Midway through the half the chances began to flow. Gallen and Jarvis combined to put the out of form Craddock away, but he miss-kicked at the vital moment.

At the other end Kieran Djilali flashed a cross right through Luton's six-yard box and lone striker Jefferson Louis, who retrieved the ball, tested Mark Tyler from an acute angle.

For all their possession and neat football the Hatters were struggling to create any clear opportunities and all too often the final ball was lacking or not even played at all.

Jarvis was inches away from breaking the deadlock, though, just before the half-hour mark when he ran on to Gallen's clever back heel, but he squeezed his shot inches wide.

Luton were struggling to break the Red Devils down but had two penalty appeals turned down on 35 minutes when Pilkington was hauled over in the area and seconds later the ball then seemed to strike a Crawley hand.

However, Pilkington got his reward seconds later as he celebrated winning the Blue Square Premier Play Of The Month award before kick off with his third goal of the season.

The visitors failed to properly clear a corner and when Craddock lifted the ball into the far post Gnakpa challenged Nick Jordan at the far post and the ball fell to Pilkington in a crowded area who gleefully prodded home. He then ran over to the Luton dug out where he was mobbed by his ecstatic team-mates.

Gallen headed Nicholls' fine free-kick over with only four minutes of the half left, while for Crawley Chris Carruthers fired well wide and Jefferson drilled straight at Tyler as the Hatters went into half-time with a well-deserved lead.

Luton almost made an explosive start to the second half when Newton's cross-field ball picked out Craddock on the left seven minutes in. The young striker showed good control and strength to get the better of his marker, but thumped his effort wide of the mark.

But Luton got the killer second goal as Pilkington registered his second double of the season on 61 minutes. Nicholls' in swinging corner looked destined for the back of the net but Pilkington came storming in at the far post to power home his header.

Four minutes later and the Hatters made it 3-0 as they threatened a landslide. Gnakpa whipped in a great cross from the right and Craddock's firm header at the far post squirmed past Jordan's hands and into the net.

Crawley centre-back Dominic Collins skied a decent chance at the other, but it was a brief foray forward in a half that belonged firmly to the Hatters.

Craddock should have netted his second with 16 minutes left when he beautifully exchanged passes with Jarvis before powering into the box, but Jordan clawed away his deft chip.

The Crawley keeper then easily saved Alan White's toe poke as they were unable to deal with Nicholls' curling free-kick after a fine run by Gnakpa had been brought to a halt on the edge of the visitors' box.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Wednesday, September 2, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: KETTERING TOWN (AWAY): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Saturday's away clash with Kettering Town by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Monday, August 31, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: CHESTER CITY (HOME): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Saturday's home clash with Chester City by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Tuesday, August 25, 2009

HARFORD: "WINNING IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING"

If poor performances still produce victories then Mick Harford will be a happy man.

The Hatters boss watched his side scratch their way to a 1-0 win at Forest Green Rovers on Tuesday with an at times dreadful performance, but they still left with the spoils.

He said: "Overall I'm delighted with the result. If we're poor on Saturday and win then I'll be delighted.

"If you can win your games by playing poorly then in the next two to three weeks when we get a settled team then hopefully we can improve on the performances."

And Harford was in no doubt that his charges just weren't at the races, saying: "We didn't play well throughout, especially in the first half when we were pretty average. We never got to grips with anything.

"The tempo was poor, the way we moved the ball around the pitch was poor, we never got the ball on the floor.

"Without them causing us a great deal of problems, we just weren't at it for the first 45 minutes.

"We changed the shape around a little bit in terms of sticking another centre-half in there and trying to get a bit of width on the pitch, with no Adam Newton, but it didn't seem to work and we just seemed to sit back and defend."

But Harford didn't believe that the 3-5-2 formation used for the first half was to blame.

On whether it affected the team, he added: "Not really no. We spoke about it, we worked on it for a couple of days.

"We have used it in training on numerous occasions and they're quite happy with it. But in the reality of a game it didn't work."

However, Harford knows that there was one positive from the trip to Gloucestershire.

He concluded: "The main thing was we got three points."

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Thursday, August 20, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: GATESHEAD (HOME): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Saturday's home clash with Gateshead by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Monday, August 17, 2009

LACKLUSTRE LUTON SCRAPE TO GATESHEAD VICTORY

An excruciating second-half performance from Luton Town put the Kenilworth Road faithful through the mill as they held on for a 2-1 victory against gutsy Gateshead.

Any hopes of an emphatic victory after Tuesday night's 4-1 defeat of Mansfield Town were quickly dispelled as Michael McKay slotted the visitors into a fifth-minute lead.

Luton struggled for much of this match against the Tynesiders and, although a 40-second salvo midway through the first-half brought goals for Asa Hall and Kevin Gallen to earn Luton victory, there was still a murmur of boos from the home fans at the final whistle.

The Hatters were forced into two changes for the visit of Gateshead, with Callum Reynolds suspended after his two yellow cards against Mansfield Town on Tuesday night and winger Adam Newton out with a slight groin strain.

They were also still also without the services of suspended duo Alan White and Kevin Nicholls, plus Ed Asafu-Adjaye, Ryan Charles, Liam Hatch and Lewis Emanuel who were all injured.

As a result, back in came Shane Blackett at centre-half, available again after a one-match ban, and Jake Howells on the left of midfield, with Keith Keane moving to right-back and Andy Burgess playing on the right of Luton's midfield.

Gateshead, runners-up in Blue Square North last season, started tentatively with Jarvis skying over the bar in the first minute after the Tynesiders had struggled to clear a corner.

However, they quickly settled and an error by Blackett on three minutes let MacKay, but his attempted chip drifted wide.

And the Hatters failed to take notice of that early warning and fell behind two minutes later. Wayne Phillips' ball through the middle was headed into the air by the offside-looking MacKay and he was allowed far too much time and space in the box to slot past the exposed Mark Tyler.

Stung by MacKay's strike the Hatters almost levelled on 10 minutes. A flowing move saw Gallen chest Freddie Murray's ball forward into the path of Hall. The midfielder powered into the box and Jim Provett didn’t hold his low drive, but Carl Jones was on hand to belt the danger away.

Luton's defence looked nervous every time the Tynesiders went at them as the Kenilworth Road crowd became increasingly restless. Jamie Harwood's deflected effort caused Luton all kinds of problems on 13 minutes and, while Burgess and Tom Craddock threatened briefly at the other end, it was the part-timers who were posing most of the problems.

MacKay's low shot from the edge of the area was straight at Tyler on 16 minutes while Darren Forsyth rolled Blackett in the box seconds later and brought another good save out of the former Peterborough stopper.

Having had Luton on the rack, the game suddenly turned on its head as Luton scored twice in less than 40 seconds. The Hatters levelled on 21 minutes when Rossi Jarvis whipped a great free-kick into the box and Hall powered his free-header into the roof of the net.

Almost straight from the kick-off the hosts were ahead. Craddock terrorised the Tynesiders' defence and his strong challenge fell to Gallen, who took a couple of touches, before driving home into the bottom left-hand corner past the flat-footed Provett.

With new-found confidence, Luton finally began to take a grip on the game, against a side who have upped their training sessions this season from two to three evenings a week.

Gallen couldn't quite make it on to the end of a Burgess centre, while Craddock wasn't quite quick enough to make it on to a clever through ball played by the former Rushden & Diamonds captain.

The Hatters' greater class began to tell and it seemed only a matter of time until they would increase their lead.

Blackett did well to block out a MacKay effort at the other end, while Pilkington was lucky not to be penalised for a shirt pull in the box just after the half-hour mark.

Only a mixture of great keeping and a slight slackness in front of goal saved the visitors on 34 minutes. Provett's attempted clearance was straight at Burgess but the Gateshead stopper somehow recovered to turn his effort from just inside the box over the bar.

Luton continued to press but couldn't quite find a killer third before the break, with Gallen firing a free-kick just wide on 43 minutes.

Luton made another slow start to the second-half and the Tynesiders should have equalised four minutes in. Luton's weakened left side was completely undone as substitute Steven Richardson raced clear but, with just Tyler left to beat, he unselfishly tried to square for MacKay, only for George Pilkington to slide in from out of nowhere to clear behind.

Having just about weathered the storm the Hatters started to come back into the game on the hour. First Howells was just unable to reach Craddock's low cross, while seconds later Gallen stroked home Burgess' brilliant centre, only for the linesman's flag to rule out his effort.

Undaunted, the Tynesiders continued to boss the half as Luton struggled to break the northerners' shackles.

A Jarvis mistake presented the ball to Richardson with eight minutes left, but his long range strike was straight at Tyler.

With six minutes left Richardson then tried his Diego Maradona impression as he palmed the ball past Tyler but fortunately, unlike in '86, it was spotted by the officials and Richardson was booked for his indiscretion as the Hatters managed to eke out victory.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, August 15, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: MANSFIELD TOWN (HOME): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of Tuesday night's home clash with Mansfield Town by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Thursday, August 13, 2009

SUPER LUTON THUMP MANSFIELD

Rampant Luton Town came from behind in scintillating fashion at Kenilworth Road to claim a 4-1 victory over Mansfield Town in a game that ended with both teams reduced to 10 men.

Right-back Scott Gardner had stroked the visitors into the lead against the run of play on 18 minutes, but not even that could stop the Luton Town juggernaut that took time to find its stride.

The Hatters wrestled the lead back from the Stags through the unlikely source of George Pilkington, who scored a maiden brace of goals for the club.

Luton then rammed home their advantage with an own goal from Kyle Perry and a late Tom Craddock penalty. Sandwiched in-between of that were the sendings off of Callum Reynolds, for a second bookable offence, and a straight red card for Scott Gardner for a terrible challenge on debutant Freddie Murray.

Luton were forced into two changes from the team that drew 1-1 at AFC Wimbledon on Saturday. With Shane Blackett suspended, alongside the already sanctioned Alan White and Kevin Nicholls, Luton also had to contend with the loss of Lewis Emanuel, out for up to three months with a broken toe.

As a result, in came left-back Murray, signed on a six-month loan deal from fellow Blue Square Premier side Grays Athletic, and Rossi Jarvis.

The Hatters started brightly, crafting three decent efforts inside the first seven minutes. Craddock's flick header was straight at Alan Marriott, Murray's low effort was easily saved and Kevin's Gallen's snapshot sizzled wide.

Adam Newton and Gallen then combined to set up goal scoring midfielder Asa Hall on 11 minutes, but his fierce effort flew just wide as the Hatters continued to dominate.

A bullet header from Gallen shot wide from the impressive Andy Burgess' cross on 16 minutes as, for all their pressure, Luton struggled to create any clear cut chance.

And, almost all too predictably, the Hatters got caught with a sucker punch two minutes later. A deep free-kick into a packed Luton penalty area eventually dropped to the unmarked Garner who gleefully side-footed home past the exposed Mark Tyler.

Strong Luton claims for a penalty were then waved away on 20 minutes when Hall's header in the box appeared to strike a Mansfield hand, while a crisp Jarvis volley streaked wide three minutes later.

Mansfield looked dangerous every time they broke forward and Ryan Williams' tasty drive soared over the bar on 33 minutes.

However, constant Luton pressure finally got its reward six minutes before the break. Jarvis whipped in Luton's sixth corner of the night and Reynolds' flick found Pilkington sliding in at the far as he rammed home his first Hatters goal.

With Luton all over the Stags they were denied another penalty on the stroke of half time when Pilkington seemed to be pulled back at the far post as he tried to reach another Jarvis corner.

The tackles began to fly in in the second half and the Hatters faithful grew increasingly restless as a string of decisions went against the hosts.

Gallen had a glorious chance to seize the lead for Luton on 61 minutes when Burgess' cross picked him out in his box, but his flick header didn't have the purchase required and Craig Armstrong cleared.

Murray's low cross was almost turned into his own net by Marriott on 65 minutes, but Luton grasped the lead from the resulting corner. Again the ball fell to Pilkington and he unleashed a first-time left-foot drive through a packed box that left the Mansfield stopper with no chance.

Mansfield, though, all but handed Luton victory with nine minutes left. Hall angled a great ball into the box and, with Newton lurking at the far post, Perry powered a header into his own net from just a few yards out.

The plethora of yellow cards finally took its toll one minute later when Reynolds launched an impetuous challenge on Robert Duffy. The referee had little choice but to hand Reynolds a second yellow card, but strangely chose not to punish the Mansfield striker as he pushed a hand into the face of the grounded full-back.

Seconds later Luton were denied a fourth when Craddock and Hall combined superbly, with the midfielder rifling home, only to have it ruled out by the linesman's flag.

With the referee struggling to retain a grip on the game, Mansfield were reduced to 10 men with three minutes left when Gardner launch a terrible two-footed lunge on Murray.

And Perry's miserable night was compounded on 94 minutes when he brought down substitute Claude Gnakpa in the box. Craddock pulled rank to take the penalty, despite a chance of a rare centre-half hat-trick for Pilkington, and the young striker made no mistake cracking his second penalty in two games into the top right-hand corner to cap a great night for the Hatters.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Wednesday, August 12, 2009

BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE: AFC WIMBLEDON (AWAY): BLOG NOW UP!

Batesy and James' Blue Square Premier Adventure has begun and our new feature, as they travel to every Hatters home and away game during the 2009-10 season, has been updated.

You can find their views of the day out at AFC Wimbledon by visiting the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com/
Story date: Sunday, August 9, 2009

HARFORD SIGNS BASHAM AND GORE

Experienced striker Steve Basham has signed a one year-deal for the Hatters on a free transfer from League One Exeter City.

The 31-year-old forward goes straight into the squad for Saturday's clash at AFC Wimbledon, where he could be in line for a starting place after an injury to Liam Hatch.

His signing follows last week's departure of popular forward Drew Talbot to Chesterfield and manager Mick Harford believes he has a ready-made replacement in the form of Basham.

He said: "I just see him as a good addition to the squad. He's experienced, 31 years old, and he enjoyed promotion with Exeter last season.

"He will give us that necessary experience and with losing Drew it gives us that other option up front.

"He will work hard and chase things down and work the channels.

"He hasn't done a lot of pre-season and hasn't played a lot of football, but looked fit and lively in training."

Harford has also signed 27 year old goalkeeper Shane Gore on a one-month deal as cover for number one Mark Tyler.

Gore started life as a trainee at Wimbledon in August 2000, and ended his tenure with the Dons four years later after loan spells at Peterborough United and Barnet, for whom he signed in August 2004. With the Bees, he made almost 30 appearances over two seasons before joining Stevenage Borough in June 2005. There, his appearances were limited as he understudied Alan Julian, widely regarded as one of the best keepers in the non-league, and he followed teammates Justin Gregory and Michael Warner to Havant & Waterlooville in June 2006. He was released at the end of that season and joined East Thurrock United, whom he left this summer.
Story date: Friday, August 7, 2009

NEW FEATURE: BATESY AND JAMES' BLUE SQUARE PREMIER ADVENTURE

Lutonfc.com is featuring a new feature this season as myself (James) and my best friend, Carl Bates (Batesy) embark on our 'Blue Square Premier adventure'. We aim to attend every single home and away match this season. But why is that so different? Well, please do read below, the first blog, to get you started, or alternatively, please visit the new blog, which will be updated after EVERY match, at the following link...

http://lutonfcdotcom.wordpress.com

Blog 1: Introduction

"Hi Guys

"Myself and my best mate, James Garley, are about to embark on a year to remember.

"We are planning on going to every Luton game this season WITHOUT EXCEPTION.

"I know there are a lot of fans up and down the country that follow their team week in, week out, every year, but this year is different for so many reasons.

"We struggled to comprehend the fact that we are now a Blue Square Premier side and to make this season more interesting we decided that to go to every game would make this season a challenge for us.

"We intend on keeping a blog on this site of our adventures. What the food is like at the “stadiums”, the grounds themselves, the opposing fans etc. – it will all be featured throughout the campaign.

"Here’s to a fantastic season. UP THE HATTERS!!! COME ON LUTON!!

Batesy"
Story date: Monday, August 3, 2009

HATTERS PAY THE PENALTY AT HAMPTON

Wasteful Luton Town paid the price for two penalty misses as they went down to Blue Square South outfit Hampton & Richmond Borough.

The Hatters bossed most of the game, but were guilty of not taking their chances and lacked the ruthless edge they must possess if they are to win promotion back to the Football League at the first attempt when the season proper starts a week today at AFC Wimbledon.

Both Tom Craddock and Adam Newton failed to hit the target from the spot in the first half, and the Beavers took full advantage when Lawrence Yaku scored the winner midway through the second-half.

The Hatters made four changes to the team that lost 1-2 to a Manchester United XI on Tuesday night. Liam Hatch (ankle) and Asa Hall both missed out with minor knocks, while Alan White and captain Kevin Nicholls, who will both be suspended at the start of the season, dropped to the bench.

In came on-loan Portsmouth starlet Callum Reynolds at right-back, Lewis Emanuel, who has just re-signed for another year, at left-back, Jake Howells on the left of midfield and Kevin Gallen up front.

There were three new notable names on the bench for Town, with former Stevenage and Barnet keeper Shane Gore, ex-Leyton Orient, Yeovil and Dagenham & Redbridge midfielder Paul Terry, and striker Steve Basham, formerly of Exeter City, Oxford United and Preston North End, among Luton's substitutes.

Borough created the first chance at the Beveree, but Ashley Smith's effort flashed wide on five minutes.

And the Hatters spurned a glorious opportunity to take the lead on 10 minutes when they were awarded a penalty, after Craddock went down under a soft challenge in the box. However, the young striker tried to be too clever from the spot and chipped harmlessly over the bar.

Reynolds was impressing at right-back as he got forward at every opportunity, and it was one of his darting runs forward that created space on 24 minutes. His pass found Andy Burgess in space and his rasping low drive was well held by Chico Ramos.

A quickly-taken free-kick opened the Beavers up again on the half-hour mark as Emanuel, Howells and Craddock combined to set-up Burgess, but his low drive was deflected wide by a good block by Orlando Jeffrey.

And lightning bizarrely struck for a second time moments later as the Hatters missed another penalty. Burgess' free-kick was handballed by the defensive wall in the area and referee Paul Forrester had no option but to point to the spot again. This time up stepped Newton, but he too failed to hold his nerve, his 32nd-minute effort flicking the right-hand upright on its way wide.

Seconds later Borough had their best chance of the half to take the lead. Craig Tanner broke down the left and his cross found Lawrence Yaku at the far post, but the Hampton & Ricmond striker could only lob an effort tamely over.

Emanuel and Howells were being afforded the freedom of the Borough on the left-hand side and the hosts' failure to mark-up caused them problems again on 36 minutes, but Newton's far post header from Howells' centre dipped just over.

And the Beavers almost broke the deadlock 10 minutes into the second half. Town failed to properly clear a corner and Tanner looped the ball back in, but Yaku's point-blank header was straight at Mark Tyler.

Craddock scuffed a shot wide when well placed seconds later, while Keith Keane's dipping 30-yarder was just over.

Hampton & Richmond should have seized the lead on 59 minutes when the Hatters carelessly gave the ball away in the middle. Francis Quarm's through ball sent Yaku away, but he poked wastefully wide with just Tyler to beat.

Luton introduced Basham for Gallen, but almost immediately fell behind. Luton were unable to deal with a ball in behind their defence and Yaku skipped past the grounded Pilkington before rolling the ball past the helpless Tyler on 63 minutes.

The Beavers were suddenly all over the Hatters, with Yaku again at the centre of it.

Burgess curled a harmless effort at Kevin Davies, but in truth Luton were too tentative and, if anything, trying to play too much football.

And substitute Dave Tarpey should have made sure of victory for Hampton & Borough when he outpaced Alan White with four minutes left, but Tyler produced a great low shot to deny him.

Tarpey was the guilty man again two minutes later when he raced clear again, this time lofting his effort over both Tyler and the bar, but it mattered not as the referee's final whistle soon followed.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Sunday, August 2, 2009

HARFORD ALLOWS DEFENDER ROPER TO JOIN KETTERING

Luton Town centre-back Ian Roper has joined Blue Square Premier rivals Kettering Town on a free transfer.

Roper made over 300 appearances for Walsall before signing for the Hatters last August.

Poppies boss Mark Cooper told the Evening Telegraph: "We needed to replace Guy Branston with a big, strong centre-back and that's what Ian Roper is."

Roper, who briefly became somewhat of a cult figure amongst Hatters fans, scored three goals for Luton in 19 appearances.

The centre-back added: "I know they had Guy Branston here and people may see me as a replacement but all that doesn't really bother me to be honest.

"I have been around a bit and I have hopefully played enough games to be able to come in here and slot in and do the job I am asked to do."
Story date: Thursday, July 30, 2009

FUTURE IS BRIGHT DESPITE MAN UTD LOSS

Rooney, Berbatov and Ferdinand et al this Manchester United team were not.

But even if Barcelona did unseat the club’s seniors for ‘Ol Big Ears’ and European supremacy in Madrid, the eleven that Luton Town lined up against would have to be one of, if not the best, set of youngsters in the country.

And if the Hatters are to fulfil their quest to be named the best non-league side come May then there can be few sterner tests for Mick Harford’s men – Giggs or no Giggs.

The good news is that Luton’s new look line-up more than matched Manchester United, who still fielded a team of players with a handful of first-team appearances under their belts.

Short of a bit of pre-season ring rust inside the first ten minutes that saw them two goals down, the future looks good. The future is orange.

The Hatters’ new day-glo shirts were the liveliest thing on the pitch for all of 44 seconds when Febian Brandy scored after a slide rule pass from Swede Magnus Eikrem put the pacey striker clean through.

Brandy was involved for United’s second goal on eight minutes, though he probably knew little about George Pilkington taking his legs from behind until the referee pointed to spot for Tom Cleverley to convert.

Asa Hall got Luton’s first sight on Ron Zieler’s goal four minutes later when Pilkington looked to atone for his rash challenge with an in-swinging cross. It found the midfielder in more space than he realised ten yards out and he went unchallenged but could only loop a header over the bar.

Hall didn’t miss on the quarter hour mark after Andy Burgess drilled in a low cross-cum-shot that the midfielder needed only to toe-poke in from two-yards.

There was the odd occasion that United’s youngsters looked like they were toying with Luton in the early stages but the Hatters began to show more promise towards the half-hour mark, and certainly more of the aggression which should stand them in good stead for the Conference.

Their best move of the match saw a snappy interchange of passes before Kevin Nicholls’ raking ball found Tom Craddock in acres of space on the right. The Teesider gave Oliver Gill the slip inside the box but could only fire into the midriff of Zieler.

It deserved a goal, but thoughts of the chance were instantly erased as Liam Hatch and Cleverley indulged in a spot of handbags, which, no doubt, was a reaction to the Luton striker’s eagerness to make his presence felt. Though if he can combine that with the movement seven minutes before the break that saw him peel off his marker and head Burgess’ cross inches over then he is sure to earn himself plaudits.

Harford introduced new Portsmouth loan signing Callum Reynolds at the start of the second period alongside defender Alan White, replacing Hall and Ian Roper respectively. Kevin Gallen and Jake Howells followed them on and despite the regulation reshuffles that friendlies provide Luton pegged United back in their own half and controlled all the play.

It was rare sight indeed to see keeper Mark Tyler forced into action on 68 minutes when he denied Sam Hewson’s close range drive.

Three minutes from time Burgess attempted to do what Liverpool’s Xavi Alonso did here in the FA Cup and very nearly succeeded in scoring from his own half with an effort that had Zieler scrambling back on his line.

Results rarely matter in these season warm-ups but Luton’s endeavour deserved an equaliser.

Regardless it’s all systems go again at Kenilworth Road so bring on the Blue Square.

Source: Luton & Dunstable News
Story date: Wednesday, July 29, 2009

STRIKER TALBOT MAKES CHESTERFIELD MOVE

Luton Town front man Drew Talbot has agreed terms with Chesterfield the day after Hatters manager Mick Harford revealed the striker was having talks with the Spireites.

The Yorkshireman, who joined the Hatters in 2007 for £250,000, was on loan at the League Two club last season, where he made 17 appearances and scored two goals.

Talbot has penned a two-year deal at Saltergate.

Harford said after Luton's 1-2 pre-season friendly defeat to Manchester United that he has been impressed with the 23-year-old striker in pre-season but admitted that any deal could be "good business" for the Hatters.

"Chesterfield came in and Drew has gone up to speak to them over the next 24 hours but we’ll have to wait and see from there," said Harford after the match.

"He wants to go up north as his family is there. He’s made that clear to us and we won’t stand in his way if the deal is right for him. He’s got a year left on his contract and if it happens we’ll be happy for him.

"I like what we’ve seen of Drew in pre-season. He’s looked lively, bright and sharp. He’s been his normal committed self when he goes on a football pitch and he gives 100 per cent.

"He’s been very unfortunate with his injuries which has restricted him from paying lots of games. But I saw Drew as a key feature of our season.

"Nothing is concrete until he signs on the dotted line but if he does go then we will be looking to bring players in so it might be a good bit of business for us.

"I can’t fault Drew’s attitude and commitment to Luton but he sees an opportunity and I think he wants to take it."

Harford also said he is still confident of reaching an agreement to keep fellow Yorkshireman Lewis Emanuel at Luton.

He said: "We are speaking to Lewis at the moment. I think he was offered a good contract at Grimsby, although I’m not certain.

"I spoke to him before the Manchester United game and hopefully we’ll sit down over the next 48 hours and thrash out a deal."

Source: Luton & Dunstable Express
Story date: Wednesday, July 29, 2009

LUTON LAND DEFENDER REYNOLDS ON LOAN

Luton Town have signed Portsmouth defender Callum Reynolds on loan until January.

The Luton-born 19-year-old started his career with Rushden & Diamonds before Paul Hart took him to the Premier League South Coast side.

Manager Mick Harford told BBC Three Counties Radio: "He came to train with us for two or three weeks at Christmas and he made a big impression on me."

Reynolds made his debut for the Hatters in Saturday's friendly against a Peterborough XI.

Meanwhile, Harford is set to meet with striker Drew Talbot to see if he can persuade him to stay at Kenilworth Road.

He said: "Drew is Luton through and through, he wants to stay here and be part of what we are trying to do but there is a difficulty with his contract."

Talbot signed for Luton in January 2007 from Sheffield Wednesday, and scored on his home league debut against his old club.

The 23-year-old only made nine appearances for the Hatters last season before going on loan to Chesterfield.

Harford may have to negotiate a cheaper deal for the player in order to keep him at the Blue Square Premier club.
Story date: Monday, July 27, 2009

HAPPY HATTERS INTO ERREA SOUTH WEST CHALLENGE CUP FINAL

A committed display from Luton Town saw them fight back from a goal down to beat Exeter City 3-2 and win through to the final of the Errea South West Challenge Cup at Bideford.

Alex Russell may have given the League One outfit an early lead, but non-league Luton hit back with a goal each from their deadly striking duo of Liam Hatch and Tom Craddock.

In the second-half Luton were pegged back by a goal from Craig McAllister, only for substitute Drew Talbot to hit his second goal in two pre-season games and ensure victory for the Hatters.

The Hatters named what looked like a first choice team for encounter against the Grecians with a good blend of youth and experience. They also named both new wingers, Adam Newton and Andy Burgess, who gave them the width they were sorely missing all of last season.

Fortunately for Luton it was also decided that Alan White would only be given a one-match friendly ban for his sending off against Bideford and he served it today at Barnstaple's Mill Road home.

Luton got off to a good start and Newton was just unable to connect with Jake Howells' tantalising cross on five minutes, while Burgess had an effort deflected behind soon after.

Luton should have taken the lead from the subsequent corner, when Kevin Nicholls' ball in found Craddock unmarked at the front post. His flick-on found the impressive Hatch at the far post, but he struggled to get the ball out form under his feet and Andy Marriott easily saved his tame effort.

Keith Keane's mistake let in Elliott Freer on 10 minutes, but Luton's defence were just able to rebel the attack as they were threatened for the first time.

Particularly impressive in the air, Hatch then headed Nicholls' curving free-kick just wide, while James Dunn missed a gilt-edged opportunity to hand City the lead.

After a great run down the left Freer pulled the ball back to Dunn who fired wastefully over from just eight yards out with the goal gaping.

However, the Grecians were ahead seconds later. Russell was allowed acres of space in behind the Hatters' defence on the quarter-of-an-hour mark and made no mistake as he fired past the stranded Mark Tyler.

Some neat interchange play between Craddock and Adam Newton released the winger on 20 minutes, but he spooned his effort horribly over.

Luton were finding left-winger Freer a real handful, but were enjoying plenty of the ball without creating too many clear cut chances.

Having struggled to break their Devon rivals down some trickery from Burgess almost opened them up with nine minutes of the half left, but no-one was able to get on the end of his inviting cross.

But the Hatters did equalise two minutes later when Hatch's hard work paid dividends. Having won the ball well he released Burgess, whose cross caused consternation in the box. The ball eventually fell to Hatch and his scuffed effort proved elusive as it trickled into the bottom right-hand corner.

And Luton looked to have taken the lead moments later when Hatch again did well to win the ball. Nicholls powered through the middle and his slide-rule pass sent Craddock clean through. His deft finish was too good for Marriott, but the linesman's flag harshly ruled out his strike.

Craddock, though, got his reward right on the stroke of half time when Asa Hall's lovely pass put him away and he made no mistake with a cool, calm finish past the helpless Tyler.

Nicholls was withdrawn by the Hatters at half-time, with Claude Gnakpa coming on at right-back and Keane moving into the centre of Luton's midfield.

City almost made an explosive start to the second half when substitute James Norwood was allowed to race down the right, but Marriott easily held his low drive.

Exeter had made a whole host of changes at the break and looked much brighter early on in the second half.

The Grecians may have taken the game by the scruff of the neck, but they were finding chances hard to come by until sub Joe Burnell flashed a 20-yard effort just wide.

And Exeter levelled on 62 minutes when McAllister muscled his way past Ian Roper before stepping inside Luton's defence and lashing the ball past Tyler.

That lead didn't last long, though, as Luton were ahead again five minutes later thanks to a thrusting move right through the heart of the Grecians' defence. A flick-on sent substitute Talbot clean away and his first-time strike left Marriott with no chance.

Buoyed by Talbot's strike, and with the stuffing seemingly knocked out of City, the Hatters bossed the last 20 minutes.

Ryan Charles' fine cross was volleyed harmlessly at Marriott by Hall with 13 minutes left, while Norwood's header just beat the bar Luton bar with seven minutes left.

Tyler saved Luton's blushes with moments left as he scrambled the ball behind and the Hatters played keep-ball in the dying stages to ensure victory.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Sunday, July 19, 2009

HATTERS CLAIM WIN IN FIRST MATCH OF ERREA SOUTHWEST CHALLENGE CUP

Formidable Luton Town turned on the style as they thrashed Western League Premier Division outfit Bideford 3-0 in an ill-tempered game at the Sportsground tonight.

A huge number of Luton fans made the attractive trip to North Devon for their opening Errea Southwest Challenge Cup match against hosts Bideford and they were rewarded with a fine attacking performance from the Hatters.

Two first-half efforts from Tom Craddock and a wonder strike from Drew Talbot did the damage, but Luton's victory was marred by a silly sending off for returning centre-half Alan White early in the second half after an altercation with Jamie Densham, which also saw the Bideford player dismissed.

Having struggled to make an impact against the home defence early on, the Hatters almost took the lead on 10 minutes. A quickly taken free-kick sent Andy Burgess away down the left and his centre found the menacing frame of new boy Liam Hatch.

His header rebounded off the right-hand upright, but Luton were stopped in their tracks when the linesman harshly penalised the striker for a foul on his marker.

Hatch then went close again moments later. Captain Kevin Nicholls' canny through ball put the striker away, but Ryan Draper turned Hatch's low effort round his near post.

The Hatters, though, were forced to reshuffle their pack as early as the 15th minute when Rossi Jarvis limped off and was replaced by winger Adam Newton.

Luton continued to press and it seemed only a matter of time until they would take the lead. Burgess had a firm header repelled from Craddock's fine cross on 17 minutes and seconds later Hatch's fierce long range drive was pushed away by Draper.

Craddock then almost skipped through the home defence as Luton continued to turn the screw, but the Robins managed to spirit the ball away.

And the Hatters' pressure eventually told when they took the lead through a predictable source on 25 minutes. Nicholls' corner wasn't properly cleared and the ball fell to George Pilkington just outside the box who shot through a crowded penalty area and Craddock was on hand to turn the ball home.

Newton then escaped down the right as Town looked to double their lead, but Craddock could only scuff his shot goalwards from just inside the box.

Hatch again tried his luck from long range on the half hour mark, but his bouncing effort was easily held by Draper.

Asa Hall then skewed an effort just off target as the home side struggled to live with the quality possessed by the favourites for the Blue Square Premier title.

And Luton deservedly doubled their lead right on the stroke of half-time – as the games are only 40 minutes each way in this competition - with a great goal. Hall did superbly to win the ball in the middle, before feeding Newton.

He in turn found Hatch, whose pinpoint cross picked out strike partner Craddock in the box and his powerful header found its way into the bottom right-hand corner despite the best efforts of Draper.

Hatters boss Mick Harford rang the changes at the interval, but Luton continued to dominate after the break.

Substitutes Kevin Gallen and White almost combined to make it 3-0 four minutes in. Gallen's free-kick was well met by the defender, but Draper produced a great save to turn his header over the bar.

Newton then had a powerful shot blocked as the Town bossed proceedings.

An unsavoury moment though followed on 51 minutes when White and Densham squared up after a foul by the Luton defender. Both were deemed to have raised their hands and were sent off by the referee.

Matthew Hockley sent an effort just wide as the Robins briefly threatened, but the Hatters did make it 3-0 with a wonder goal from substitute Drew Talbot on 58 minutes.

A long ball from replacement keeper Preston Edwards was well controlled by the ginger-haired striker, who took a touch, before lashing an unstoppable swerving shot over the keeper, which crashed in off the far post.

Bideford should have pulled a goal back with 15 minutes left. Ellis Laight raced clean through, only for his poor pull-back to eventually be spooned wide by Matthew Hockley.

Adam Watkins raced through with eight minutes left, but a great last-ditch tackle denied him a first senior goal for the Hatters.

But Luton had already done more than enough as they eased to a well-deserved victory.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Thursday, July 16, 2009

PLEAT SADDENED BY HARTSON NEWS

Former Luton Town manager David Pleat has spoken of his sadness after hearing of ex-Hatters striker John Hartson being diagnosed with cancer.

Pleat, who brought Hartson into the Hatters side in the early 90s, said, "John will take the treatment and work very hard, having already had a few upsets in his career.

"His family and all those who played with him in football will be very supportive," added Pleat.

Hartson is having hospital treatment after being diagnosed with testicular cancer that has spread to his brain.

Pleat says he still regrets not playing Hartson in the 1994 FA Cup semi-final, against Chelsea, at Wembley, which Luton lost 0-2.

"It might have turned the game," he said.

"We thought it might be too big a theatre for him, and left him out. We started with Kerry Dixon that day.

"Luton Town played a small part in Hartson's formative years, helping him build his character," he added.
Story date: Monday, July 13, 2009

EX-HATTERS HERO HARTSON DIAGNOSED WITH CANCER

Former Wales and Luton Town striker John Hartson is battling brain cancer.

Hartson was diagnosed with the illness after he went to Singleton Hospital in Swansea suffering from severe headaches.

Doctors told the big Welshman he was suffering from testicular cancer - and that the disease had spread to his brain.

According to The Sun, the 34-year-old will start chemotherapy today.
A close friend of Hartson's said: 'If anyone can beat this, big John can.'

Hartson had been working as a pundit for Setanta since hanging up his boots last year, calling time on a career that also included spells with Arsenal, West Ham, Wimbledon, Coventry, Celtic, West Brom and Norwich.

A pal said: 'John had complained of really bad headaches recently. It reached the stage where he felt something was seriously wrong.

'It's devastating news for John and his family. His father is at his bedside and worried sick. But the doctors are upbeat about his prospects and chemotherapy will begin right away. John is a big, strong man.

'Throughout his career he was a battler - he'll fight this with everything he's got.'

A higely talented striker, John came through the youth ranks at Kenilworth Road.

He turned professional in 1992 and made his first-team debut as a substitute in a 0-1 League Cup defeat to Cambridge United on 24th August 1993.

He burst onto the scene, including a famous FA Cup goal against Newcastle United in 1993. However, after just 54 appearances and 11 goals for Luton Town, the young striker and then Wales U-21 international was sold to Arsenal for a British record transfer fee for a teenager of £2.5 million.

In total, he amassed nearly £20 million in transfer fees during his career.

"John will take the treatment and work very hard, having already had a few upsets in his career.

"His family and all those who played with him in football will be very supportive," added Pleat.

Hartson is having hospital treatment after being diagnosed with testicular cancer that has spread to his brain.

Lutonfc.com would like to wish John the very best with his treatment and we hope that he makes a speedy recovery.

SUPER, SUPER JOHN, SUPER, SUPER JOHN, SUPER, SUPER JOHN, SUPER JOHNNY HARTSON!
Story date: Monday, July 13, 2009

HATTERS OPEN PRE-SEASON WITH WIN AT ST NEOTS

A useful pre-season outing ended in a comfortable victory for Luton Town at St Neots Town.

Mick Harford gave 22 players an opportunity to run the off season break out of their system and although there was an element of rustiness – unsurprisingly – there was plenty to be positive about.

St Neots were willing opponents who had their moments, but the superior fitness and technique of the visitors proved telling.

At the impressive Rowley Park, Luton were straight on to the attack in the first few seconds, but it was St Neots who had the first chance, Leon Simpson forcing a smart save from Mark Tyler after latching on to Ian Edge's centre.

A couple of minutes later, Tyler reacted well to turn Edge's free-kick wide.

The hosts were looking sharp, especially on the break, but it didn't take Luton long to carve out an opportunity, Liam Hatch's diving header forcing Luke McShane into action.

There was a competitive edge to proceedings with a few tackles flying in – no bad thing for a pre-season friendly which can often resemble a glorified training session – and on 13 minutes the visitors went ahead.

Kevin Nicholls' corner found an unmarked Alan White at the near post and his firm header left McShane with no chance.

The game began to settle down into some sort of rhythm and although there were a few misplaced passes, both sides were trying to play to feet.

The width that was painfully lacking last season was in evidence with Adam Newton and Andy Burgess providing outlets on the flanks.

Newton was the next to try his luck with a good volley and halfway through the half, Hatch made a mess of an inviting Burgess cross.

The former Barton Rovers duo of Josh Sozzo and Simpson were a handful for the Hatters defence and after a couple of half chances for Luton, the former brought St Neots level in the 42nd minute.

Tony Scully was allowed to run unchecked through the centre and his low cross was met first time by Sozzo whose excellent finish left Tyler stranded.

The goal was deserved for endeavour alone but a minute later Newton put Luton back in front, Hatch's header at the far post from Burgess' looping cross was parried and Newton was left with the task of burying a volley from close range.

It was all change for the second period as Mick Harford shuffled his pack, making 10 substitutions in all, and Tom Craddock was the first to try his luck seven minutes in with a left-footed effort that flew harmlessly over.

Just as there was a lull shortly before the brace of goals at the end of the first-half, the opening minutes of the second-half had little in the way of meaningful action.

This changed just after the hour when in the 62nd minute, Jake Howells was on hand to clear Shane Fox's effort off the line.

They were left to rue their miss when, two minutes later, the overlapping Jason Mitchell's cross found Laurence Hunter at the far post and the trialist from Corby Town made no mistake with a crisp half-volley finish.

Claude Gnakpa had a 69th minute effort saved low down as Luton pressed and Hunter, just a few seconds later, failed to get any real power into his shot after creating some space.

The game was opening up as the hosts tired and Drew Talbot had a couple of shots a few seconds apart, the first deflected for a corner, and the second thumped harmlessly over the bar.

Craddock, playing just behind the strikers, showed a handful of good touches in the final stages and with the Hatters in almost total control, they were able to easily close the game out.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, July 11, 2009

EX-HATTERS WINGER MORGAN TRIALS WITH BARNSLEY

Former Luton Town player Dean Morgan has gone on trial with Championship side Barnsley.

Morgan, who was one of six Hatters players released this summer, ended last season on loan at Leyton Orient and he impressed at Brisbane Road scoring five goals for the O's.

Morgan has played in the Championship before with both Reading and Luton and Tykes boss Simon Davey is weighing up a move for the versatile attacker.

Davey is thought to be in the market for attacking reinforcements and he will cast an eye over Morgan in training.

If Morgan impresses he could win a move to Oakwell ahead of the new season.

Another ex-Hatter, winger Paul McVeigh, is also looking to win a deal having pitched up at his former club Norwich City after leaving Bedfordshire.

Meanwhile, Hatters manager Mick Harford has confirmed that winger Ian Henderson has been released, along with youngsters Harry Hogarth, Mark Farthing and Ricci Biggi. Young winger Scott Sinclair has been invited back for pre-season training in a bid for Harford to ascertain whether he will be given a new deal.
Story date: Thursday, July 9, 2009

OAK ROAD COULD BE USED FOR HATTERS FANS

With some away attendances in the Conference last season not even numbering a coachload, the Hatters are contemplating how to make use of what could be a seriously empty-looking Oak Road end.

However, there are also a number of much more local games compared to last season against well-supported sides and managing director Gary Sweet believes that the club should be adaptable in its approach to housing away fans.

On utlising the Oak Road end for home supporters, he said: "It's been something we've been looking at for over a year.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, June 20, 2009

HATTERS TO GET NEW STRIPS

A new image for the Hatters is set to be unveiled when they take on a Manchester United XI at Kenilworth Road on Tuesday, July 28.

Managing director Gary Sweet has revealed that Luton Town will have new club sponsors and two new kits for next season and the club's fresh identity will be unveiled when the Premiership champions visit town.

He said: "At the Manchester United game we are going to launch a new shirt, kit, image and sponsor for Luton Town. We will be giving the brand of Luton a fresh outlook."

The club have been in contact with supporters organisations and Sweet is confident the changes will be a big hit.

He said: "Our board is fully in touch with the supporter base and they have a big say in us moving forward. Everyone I ask is excited about it."

Luton Town's relegation into the Blue Square Premier meant that sponsors and kit makers Carbrini could renegotiate their deal, and their offer was far lower than before.

He also confirmed that the Hatters would have had to change their away kit next term anyway because it would clashes with Conference officials.

He added: "The problem is when you change the sponsor it's going to be a different name on the front anyway.

"In the Conference all of the refs wear black and so our away kit would have needed to be changed anyway."

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, June 20, 2009

DEFENDER WHITE RETURNS TO KENILWORTH ROAD

Luton Town have completed the signing of former Hatters defender Alan White on a free transfer from Darlington.

The 33-year-old centre-half, who has signed a two-year-deal, made 93 appearances for the Hatters before leaving to join Colchester United in 2000.

"It's 12 years since I first signed but it seems like it was only five minutes ago, it's great to be back," White said.

"I'm really looking forward to getting stuck in."

Luton manager Mick Harford is pleased to have secured the services of White.

"His arrival will give added competition and strength in depth to our squad which is what we lacked last season," said Harford.

"He's been and played here before so he knows the club well and I'm delighted that we've been able to sign him."

White becomes Luton's fourth signing this summer after the arrivals of Liam Hatch, Adam Newton and Andy Burgess.
Story date: Thursday, June 11, 2009

JOIN THE FACEBOOK CAMPAIGN TO GET BACK THE AUSSIE BULLY!

Rumours on the Internet are suggesting that former Hatters defender and fans' favourite Chris Coyne is leaving Colchester United on a free transfer.

Reports suggest the "Aussie Bully" is having his contract terminated by mutual consent just two years after the U's paid a club record £350,000 to Luton Town for the defender.

The Australian international is now considering his options, but as yet seems unaware where he will end up. So, we decided to start a Facebook group to campaign to get the hugely popular former Hatters skipper back to Kenilworth Road.

The group has been set up to try to bring back one of the greatest Hatters of recent times, Chris Coyne. If you want the Aussie Bully back with the Hatters, please join this group in the hope that somehow we can make this happen!

He was watching the mighty Luton Town win at Wembley, so we know he cares. With Kevin Nicholls coming back last summer, perhaps we can get another of the League One winning legends back. Fan power - come on guys!

Spread the word people!

To join the group please visit this link...

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=86963329932.
Story date: Thursday, June 4, 2009

LUTON TOWN SNAP UP BEES WINGER NEWTON

Luton Town have completed the signing of winger Adam Newton, who was released by Brentford earlier this month.

The 28-year-old former England Under-21 international has signed a two-year deal at Kenilworth Road.

Manager Mick Harford said, "I think it's a coup for Luton Town to sign a player of Adam's ilk.

"He is athletic, experienced and the kind of player that we have been looking to bring to this football club for a long time."

A product of West Ham United's academy, Newton made 40 appearances for Brentford after joining from Peterborough in June 2008.

Newton won promotion from League Two with Peterborough in 2007/08 and again this season with the Bees.

"He can get to the byline and deliver crosses and will offer us balance and width in the side," added Harford.

"At 28 he's in his prime. He's got the experience of winning promotion the last two seasons and he's come here to do it again."
Story date: Thursday, May 28, 2009

POPULAR DAVIS AMONG FIVE HATTERS RELEASED

Luton Town have released five players ahead of the 2009-10 Blue Square Premier campaign – Sam Parkin, Dean Brill, Paul McVeigh, Dean Morgan and popular and long-serving full-back Sol Davis.

The quintet are all out-of-contract at Kenilworth Road this summer and all have been informed that their deals will not be renewed as manager Mick Harford looks to reshape his squad. The Luton Town manager has already signed Rushden & Diamonds winger Andy Burgess and is targeting several more arrivals for the forthcoming campaign.

In addition, striker Drew Talbot, who ended last season on loan at Chesterfield, has been placed on the transfer-list. He has one-year left on his contract.

Perhaps the most surprising departure is defender Sol Davis, who was a hugely popular player and a stalwart of the 2004-05 League One title-winning side.

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Brill is unlikely to have to wait long to find a new club, with League One sides Hartlepool United, Oldham Athletic and Brighton & Hove Albion all offering the shot stopper a deal.

Paul McVeigh, meanwhile, has pitched up in the United States, taking a trial with MLS side San Jose Earthquakes.
Story date: Wednesday, May 27, 2009

HATTERS SNAP UP LUTON FAN BURGESS IN "DREAM MOVE"

Luton Town manager Mick Harford has made his first signing of the summer by snapping-up Rushden & Diamonds and lifelong Hatters fan Andy Burgess, 27.

The left-winger, who can also operate in the centre of midfield, has joined the Hatters on a free transfer, signing a two-year deal as his contract at Nene Park has expired. He has described the move to Kenilworth Road as “A dream come true.”

Hatters boss Mick Harford was delighted with his new acquisition saying, “Andy has got the experience of the Conference, he’s won the title with Rushden and played 50 games for them this season.

“I went to watch Rushden against Woking and he was one of the best players on the pitch.

“He has a great range of passing, short and long, and he’ll come here with the experience we need to play in this Division.

“He’s a big Luton fan and his family have a big affinity with this club. I know when he plays he’ll run that extra yard for the Football Club.”

Burgess made 86 appearances for Rushden & Diamonds in his second spell at Nene Park after a brief stint with Oxford United. In total, he made 286 appearances for Rushden & Diamonds during two spells, scoring 29 goals. He also won the Blue Square Premier and League Two titles and has 6 caps, scoring 2 goals for the England ‘C’ team. Sandwiched in-between these two spells in Northamptonshire was a stint with Oxford United, where he made 55 appearances, scoring 7 goals.

Burgess’ delight at sealing a move to Kenilworth Road was there for all to see as the winger said, “People talk about dream moves and anyone who knows me will know it’s a fantastic move for me.

“All my family have been Luton Town fans all their lives. My Nan was born on Kenilworth Road and have had the same season tickets for 70 years so the club has clear links to me.”
Story date: Tuesday, May 26, 2009

LUTON TOWN CONFIRM NEWBERY DEPARTURE

Luton Town has refused to say if it asked former secretary Cherry Newbery to leave the club - but has categorically denied sacking her.

Hatters have confirmed that Newbery, who has been at the Kenilworth Road club for more than 20 years, has left 'by mutual consent'.

Club director Stephen Browne told our reporter: "She's not been fired, categorically. She's left by mutual consent."

But when asked if the club had asked her to leave, Mr Browne said: "I can't answer that."

The future of Luton Town's former club secretary became shrouded in mystery in March as Hatters prepared for one of the biggest games in their history.

It is believed Newbery was suspended, leading to her taking holiday, though the club deny this.

When asked if there would be an appropriate send-off for someone who has dedicated a large part of her life to the club, Mr Browne said: "I'm afraid not. As you know we won't disclose past or present individuals of the club. You can try Cherry."

When asked if Newbery had been suspended, Mr Browne said: "That's an assumption - it's not quite like that at all.

"I wouldn't call it a suspension or gardening leave. It could be compassionate leave, changes in the business or changes in her personal life.

"I'm going to respect her longevity at the club and I'm not going to get into that."

Newbery is well known for her decision to notify the FA of the irregularities at the club at a meeting in June 2006. Her revelations eventually led to the Hatters being docked points due to unauthorised payments to agents.

At the start of this season the club began on an unprecedented minus 30 points - ten for the unauthorised payments to agents and 20 for breaking insolvency rules. That was in addition to the ten they had lost the previous season, when they were relegated from League One.

Despite winning the Johnstone's Paint Trophy with a 3-2 victory over Scunthorpe at Wembley, though, the club were sadly relegated to Blue Square Premier.

Source: ldexpress.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, May 2, 2009

HATTERS BOSS HARFORD SETS SIGHTS ON SIGNINGS

Luton Town manager Mick Harford has already turned some of his attention to next season's challenge in the Blue Square Premier, saying he will almost need a new team to bounce back to the Football League at the first attempt.

Harford has his eye on bringing in up to eight new players despite wanting to keep the nucleus of his current squad.

He said: "We have already spoken to numerous players. Players with non-league experience and players with league experience.

"We're looking at seven or eight players in a variety of positions."

He hopes a number of the current squad will stay and fight for promotion next season with some players even hinting at taking a pay-cut to stay at Kenilworth Road.

"Some of the players have advocated that they'd like to stay. Others will look at it another way," he said.

"We just want players who are committed to Luton Town Football Club. That's what we want next season - a group of 22/23 players committed to the cause."

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, May 2, 2009

HARFORD: "WE WILL BOUNCE BACK"

Luton Town manager Mick Harford vowed that the Hatters will bounce back into the Football League after the club were relegated from the League after 98 years.

Speaking after the 0-0 draw with Chesterfield confirmed the dreaded drop, Harford said, "The first-half was awful, the two teams didn't play. They had come for the draw as usual.

"Second-half there was only one team in it and we couldn't break them down.

"The last two games we've kept two clean sheets, but we didn't have that cutting edge today or on Saturday like we did at Wembley.

"That's been the story of the season so far. Our home form has let us down a little bit.

"The fans didn't deserve the shit they've had to put up with and the hassle and I thank them for their support.

"We are in it together. We will stick together and keep working for the cause. The club's never been in this position before and hopefully we can bounce back.

"I said to the players it's 100% not their fault. The past incumbents of this club are to blame. The penalty points were a massive burden we could not overcome.

"I found out we were relegated at five to five. I looked at the clock in the dressing room and said to the players 'remember this time. Five to five on 13th April. This is the rebirth of Luton Town Football Club'.

"We will go forward, we will kick-on. There are lots of people worse off than Luton Town Football Club.

"The benchmark is Doncaster Rovers. They went down a few years ago, came back up, got a new stadium and now they're flying high in the Championship. And that's how we've got to respond.

"If I was another manager I'd be ringing me up about our players. We've got some good players. We try and play the right way and I'm sure there will be people knocking on the door for our players.

"If a Championship club comes in and offers the right sort of money you can't stand in their way and that's always been the policy of Luton Town Football Club.

"I'm disappointed to be in the Conference and out of League football, but these players are not non-league players.

"They are winners. We've got a group of winners. They've won a trophy this season.

"There are millions and millions of players who have never won a trophy and this group of players did.

"They are winners and deservedly so."
Story date: Monday, April 13, 2009

LUTON TOWN ARE RELEGATED FROM THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Relegation from the Football League has become a reality for Luton Town as the story of their season was encapsulated at Kenilworth Road against Chesterfield.

With Chester City and Grimsby Town both recording victories, a goalless draw with the Spireites simply wasn't good enough as the Hatters dropped out of the Football League after 98 years as a League club – and after probably the toughest season in their history.

Sam Parkin and Claude Gnakpa both missed great chances in the second-half for the Hatters, who once again paid the price for their wastefulness in front of goal.

Luton were forced to make three changes to the team that drew 0-0 at Lincoln City on Saturday.

With Chris Martin suspended and Kevin Gallen (hamstring) and Lewis Emanuel (knee) ruled out through injury in came Gnakpa, Asa Hall and Parkin.

Keith Keane continued where he left off on Saturday and had Luton's first effort on six minutes, but his shot from the edge of the box was skewed behind.

After a slow opening Dean Brill was finally called into action on 15 minutes. Jared Wilson broke down the right and whipped a cross in which Mark Bower could only turn towards his own goal, but thankfully for the Hatters it was straight at Brill.

And the Spireites finally forged a chance of their own four minutes later when Martin Gritton flicked on a good header to the dangerous Jack Lester. The much-admired striker lofted his shot over the stranded Brill but, fortunately for the Hatters, the ball dropped over the bar.

Desperately needing to win to keep their slim survival dreams alive the Hatters went close on 22 minutes. Kevin Nicholls swung out a corner to Keane on the edge of the area, but the midfielder's half-volley fizzed just over the bar.

Some terrible decision-making from Gnakpa then saw a gilt-edged opportunity go begging on 25 minutes. George Pilkington's header out of defence didn't look like causing any problems before Lloyd Kerry slipped over at a crucial moment.

Gnakpa stormed through with only one defender to beat and Tom Craddock in acres of space on the left shouting for the ball. However, the Frenchman failed to spot him and by the time he did look up the chance was gone and his poor pass killed the move.

Luton reject Alan Goodall almost came back to haunt his club seconds after coming on as a 27th-minute substitute. Brill couldn't quite hold the left-midfielder's low long range effort, but managed to grab it at the second go just ahead of Peter Till.

Goodall was again at the heart of it for the Spireites on 31 minutes when his delayed pass delightfully teed up Gregor Robertson, but the left-back fired wastefully off target when well placed.

Asa Hall and Keane got in each other's way as they went for Nicholls' fine cross seconds later, while at the other end Derek Niven sent a poor header over the bar from Jamie Lowry's fine centre.

Neither side was able to dominate with half-chances coming thick and fast. Lester sent an effort just over with 10 minutes of the half left, while Daniel Hall did well to deflect Sam Parkin's close-range effort over the bar following a Nicholls corner.

David Livermore spooned an effort over the bar as Luton started to press and Craddock was unlucky to see an effort deflected behind after good work by Parkin.

Hall and Parkin's played some head pinball in the box with six minutes left, but in truth the Hatters failed to show the urgency and desire their perilous predicament necessitated as the two teams went in all square at the break.

Luton almost got a much-needed shot in the arm three minutes into the second half, but Parkin's header from Nicholls' sent glanced the back of the stanchion on its way over the bar.

A flowing Luton move almost paid dividends on 57 minutes when Craddock picked out Gnakpa in the box, but the Frenchman was unlucky to see his shot blocked.

Facing relegation out of the Football League the Hatters spurned two glorious chances on 61 minutes. First Parkin sprung Chesterfield's offside trap to race on to Nicholls' fine through ball, but the big man lacked composure as he fired straight at Tommy Lee.

Seconds later Hall put Gnakpa clear in the box, but a heavy touch enabled Lee to come storming out and smother at his feet.

Pilkington denied Lester with another well-timed challenge on 63 minutes, before Hall forced a sprawling stop from Lee.

Much-maligned ex-Hatter Darren Currie sent a weak effort straight at Brill with 15 minutes left, while Parkin thudded a great header from Ian Henderson's cross just over as Luton continued to create and miss chances.

Pilkington's outstretched foot looped the ball wide with seven minutes left, while a Spireites corner caused all kinds of problems for Luton three minutes from time and, having scrambled it off the line, Niven could only poke wide.

The Hatters turned the screw at the death, but couldn't find a goal as their long and hard season ended in disappointment.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Monday, April 13, 2009

STALEMATE AT SINCIL BANK

A breathless encounter between Lincoln City and Luton Town eventually ended all square as both sets of players ran themselves into the ground at the finish.

At the final whistle both sides fell to the ground exhausted, as neither side were able to break the deadlock.

But with relegation rivals Grimsby Town and Chester City both losing, the Hatters will surely see this as two points lost as they enjoyed all the best chances at Sincil Bank.

And they will surely rue the exemplary Keith Keane's tame effort late in the first-half that should have ended in a goal, Mark Bower's header against the bar and Tom Craddock's indecision at the death

Manager Mick Harford made three changes to the team that won the Johnstone's Paint Trophy at Wembley on Sunday. The cup-tied trio of David Livermore, Mark Bower and Kevin Gallen all went straight back into the starting 11, with Asa Hall, Rossi Jarvis and Michael Spillane dropping to the bench.

The game burst into life with a a surging run by Scott Kerr on four minutes, but his through ball was just to hard and Dean Brill was able to smother.

Luton looked steady and compact all over the pitch and had their first effort on eight minutes when Chris Martin cut inside the full-back but thumped his effort straight at Rob Burch.

Luton continued to push, but Craddock sadly over-hit his cross after Gallen had put him into acres of space on the right.

The Imps struggled to clear a Luton corner moments later, but despite a good ball into the box from Kevin Nicholls, defender Mark Bower could only head wide of the mark.

Lewis Emanuel's injury-hit season went from bad to worse on 19 minutes when he was left in a heap after challenging Dany N'Guessan on the left hand side. Luton physio Harry Scott-Stackman signalled for a stretcher and Emanuel was carried off with his left leg in a splint as Spillane replaced him.

The visitors almost unlocked the Imps' defence moments later, but Gallen's dangerous cross was hacked just wide of the goal and behind by Kerr.

At the other end N'Guessan broke clear after an agricultural Geoff Horsfield challenge on Bower had released him, but the much-fancied winger fired wide with almost everybody pausing for a free-kick.

The Sincil Bank faithful thought the Imps had taken the lead just after the half-hour mark but, after Horsfield had done well to feed Kerr, the Lincoln captain thrashed his effort into the side netting.

With City desperately needing victory to keep their play-off dream alive and Luton needing to win to keep their slim survival hopes afloat, both teams were happy to push forward in numbers.

Luton’s top scorer Martin then went close again on 32 minutes. The on-loan Norwich man cut across Lee Beevers, but his low effort nestled in the side netting.

With five minutes of the half left the Hatters should have taken the lead. Keane won a brave tackle in the middle of the park before driving forward. His pass found Craddock on the right, who ran at his man, before sliding a ball on to the toes of Keane seven yards out, but the impressive midfielder scuffed his shot with the goal beckoning and Burch was able to easily save his weak effort.

Three minutes of injury-time were signalled and both sides had chances in the last seconds. First George Pilkington had to make a fine challenge to thwart Ben Wright, before from the subsequent corner Livermore had to head Wright's goal-bound header off the line.

Luton counter-attacked in numbers and seemed odds on to score when Gallen picked Spillane out at the far post, but the on-loan defender headed wastefully wide with Craddock and Keane well placed for a knock-down.

Luton were inches away from taking the lead three minutes after the restart. Livermore flicked Nicholls’ corner on at the near post and Bower was desperately unlucky to see his delicate effort rebound off the bar and out.

A flowing Hatters move ended with Craddock stroking a tame effort at Burch, while the Imps countered with a route one move that ended in Horsfield flashing an effort inches wide.

N'Guessan looked to be in on goal with 20 minutes left, but lucky Luton were saved by the linesman's flag.

Janos Kovacs threatened with a series of headers, but both sides were struggling to find a way through in what was a must-win game for both teams.

With the game becoming increasingly stretched, substitute Claude Gnakpa fizzed a long-range effort wide, while Kerr sent a dreadful free-kick over the bar when well placed.

The Imps almost grabbed the lead in fortuitous fashion with two minutes left as the game reached a climactic conclusion. Substitute Sam Mullarkey's shot from the edge of the area deflected off Spillane, but fortunately for Luton the ball went straight into Brill's grateful hands.

In injury-time the Hatters had a great chance to win when Asa Hall's through ball put Craddock through, but the striker waited too long to pull the trigger and Kovacs somehow got back get his challenge in.

Imps keeper Burch joined the home side's attack as they threatened with a series of corners and free-kicks in injury-time, but he couldn't make a difference and when Martin and Craddock broke at the death Luton Town had one last chance, but a misplaced pass allowed Cheshire referee Scott Mathieson to blow for full-time.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Sunday, April 12, 2009

SUPER LUTON WIN THE JOHSTONE'S PAINT TROPHY AT WEMBLEY

Steely Luton Town came back from a goal down to blunt the Iron and lift the Johnstone's Paint Trophy after a spectacular extra-time victory at Wembley over Scunthorpe United.

In a topsy-turvy encounter, free-scoring Gary Hooper had given Scunthorpe an early lead, only for the Hatters to level through Chris Martin.

The ever-dangerous Tom Craddock looked to have grabbed victory for Luton midway through the second-half, only for Grant McCann to take the game into extra-time with a sensational equaliser two minutes from time.

Never-say-die Luton, though, came again and claimed a memorable victory when substitute Claude Gnakpa stole in early in the second period of extra-time to score the winner and send Hatters' travelling army of 40,000 fans into wonderland.

Luton made three changes to the team that lost disappointingly 2-4 at home to Rotherham United on Tuesday night.

The cup-tied quartet of Mark Bower, Kevin Gallen, David Livermore and Ian Henderson were all missing from the Hatters' squad, so into the starting XI came Rossi Jarvis, Ed Asafu-Adjaye and Michael Spillane, with Sam Parkin being left, somewhat surprisingly, on the bench.

Football League chairman Lord Brian Mawhinney walked out to a torrent of boos from Hatters' massed ranks of supporters as he was introduced to both sets of players before kick-off, but not even he could detract from the brilliant spectacle and fabulous weather.

The lively Iron made the far better start and only some desperate Luton defending kept them at bay early on. McCann's third-minute effort almost deflected straight into the path of Hooper in the box, but Luton were just able to scramble the ball away.

Scunthorpe continued to push and Matt Sparrow's low effort forced a good save out of Dean Brill two minutes later.

After a nervy opening, the Hatters began to settle and started to enjoy more of the ball. Kevin Nicholls' brilliant first time pass put Martin into space, but he dallied to long and Iron's splayed defence was able to regroup.

Luton were an inches away from taking the lead on 10 minutes. Nicholls' corner was touched on at the front post and a giant scramble in the Iron goalmouth ensued. Some brave keeping from Joe Murphy just kept out Martin's close-range effort and neither George Pilkington or Asa Hall were able to force the ball home.

Grant McCann warmed Brill's glove with a long-range free-kick before the Iron snatched the lead on 14 minutes, courtesy of their deadly duo of Paul Hayes and Hooper. A long ball forward was flicked on by Hayes and Hooper proved just too good as he skipped past Pilkington and stroked home across the face of goal and into the bottom left-hand corner.

And the two almost combined again to great effect on 20 minutes, but Pilkington was just able to get his foot in before Hooper could pull the trigger.

The northerners then almost doubled their lead from the resulting corner. The ball ran all the way to Henri Lansbury who let fly with a belter from just inside the box, but Nicholls somehow sprung up on the line to head the ball, destined for the top left-hand corner, over the bar.

Luton then twice went close in the matter of a minute as they began to turn the screw. First Rossi Jarvis won a brave tackle against Marcus Williams, before slipping through a lovely ball for Craddock. The former Middlesbrough man looked to have got the better of David Mirfin before he was felled in the box but, despite a close look, Kent referee Phil Crossley gave nothing.

Martin's fine run and shot almost created an opening seconds later when Jarvis' clever touch put in Hall, but his shot was deflected over the bar.

The pace of the game was unrelenting and, on 26 minutes, Williams was allowed far too much room to shoot from 25 yards out, and Brill was forced to turn his effort around the post.

Undaunted, the gallant Hatters levelled with a fine move on 32 minutes. Jarvis' superb cross field pass picked out Tom Craddock on the left, and he showed great vision to dink his pass into the path of the onrushing Chris Martin, who did wonderfully to shrug off Iron captain Cliff Byrne, and roll the ball home, much to the delight of 40,000 Hatters.

After a brief lull, a quick Nicholls free-kick picked out Spillane with two minute of the half left, but his flick header was easily saved by Murphy.

Controversy ensued in the final moments of the half when Byrne collapsed in a pile on the halfway line after Craddock appeared to slap him as he ran past. The Iron captain claimed the Luton striker had elbowed him, but thankfully for the Hatters none of the match day officials saw the incident as the teams went in all-square at the break.

Having started the second half slowly the Hatters spurned a great chance in front of their own supporters on 49 minutes. Emanuel's deep cross found Jarvis at the far post, who headed back across goal for Martin, but he misjudged his spectacular bicycle-kick and his effort trickled wide.

The Iron were enjoying more of the play again in the early stages of the second half, with Krystian Pearce stabbing a good chance just wide on 54 minutes.

With the game becoming stretched the Iron started to take control with Craddock looking increasingly isolated up front.

Having soaked up Scunthorpe's pressure, though, Town caught the Iron with a cracking sucker punch with 20 minutes left. Martin's cross from the left was cleared only as far as Craddock on the edge of the area who somehow squeezed home a pinpoint shot past Murphy and just inside the right-hand post.

In the box seat, Luton were happy to soak up the Iron pressure and hit them on the break whenever possible.

Luton got a huge let off with 10 minutes left. McCann found space on the left and whipped a great ball into the box, but Lansbury was desperately unlucky to see his shot cannon off the bar and breathed a sigh of relief when a free-kick relieved the pressure.

However, just when it looked like Luton would hold on for victory the Iron equalised with a screamer two minutes from time. Michael Spillane's tackle ran to McCann 25-yards out and he let fly with an incredible effort that whizzed over Brill and dipped under the bar.

Nicholls curled a late free-kick straight at Murphy, but it was to no avail as the Wembley showpiece went into extra-time.

Substitute Claude Gnakpa wasted a glorious opportunity to give Luton the lead two minutes into extra-time. Nicholls' first-time ball put the Frenchman into acres of space, but he got the ball stuck under his feet and hesitated too long as Mirfin raced back to clear behind.

Scunthorpe, though, were equally wasteful at the other end. A long ball over the top put Hooper clear but, having shrugged off Emanuel, he could only roll a tame effort at Brill.

Yet there were still more twists and turns in this humdinger. Having been profligate moments earlier, Gnakpa made amends in style on 95 minutes. Keith Keane's great long pass dissected the Iron defence and Gnakpa just beat Williams to the ball on the edge of the area to lob over the stranded Murphy and into the back of the net.

Mirfin's back-pass put Murphy into trouble late in the first period of extra-time and, although, Martin got a leg to it he could only deflect it out for a throw.

As the clock ticked down Luton seemed to be on the wrong end of some harsh decision, none more so than when Pilkington was penalised for a great tackle on Martyn Woolford on the edge of his own box. Thankfully justice was done as McCann curled wildly over.

The action was coming six to the dozen, with Keane and Gnakpa combining to cut open the Iron defence on 112 minutes. However, with so much space Luton panicked and Keane was eventually caught offside as the chance went begging.

Scunthorpe always looked dangerous in attack and continued to put the Luton goal under pressure. Lansbury whipped a shot between Brill and his near post that fizzed across the face of goal with seven minutes left, while only a great block from Ed Asafu-Adjaye prevented Hooper from hitting the target seconds later.

The game swung in Luton's favour with five minutes left when, with United having already used all their substitutes, Mirfin was stretchered off after a clash with Gnakpa.

With superior numbers the Hatters managed to boss the last few moments. Murphy pushed a late Keane effort round the post, while Gnakpa shot was carried behind by the United keeper.

The referee signalled four minutes of injury-time, but this time Luton Town’s determined stars held their nerve to claim a memorable victory.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Monday, April 6, 2009

SUPER LUTON CLAIM VITAL WIN AT MORECAMBE

Never say die Luton Town made it a hat-trick of straight wins with a battling comeback triumph at play-off hopefuls Morecambe.

Hatters fans flocked to the seaside to pay tribute to the statue of former Luton Town chairman and local lad Eric Morecambe, and the funny man must have been left with a smile on his face as the Hatters claimed three invaluable points in their battle against relegation.

Despite falling behind to an early Stewart Drummond header and having Asa Hall's header harshly ruled out for a push, the Hatters rolled their sleeves up to claim three well-deserved points thanks to strikes from Chris Martin and Kevin Gallen.

Luton made two changes to the team that scraped to a 1-0 win against Macclesfield Town on Saturday. Michael Spillane was left out of the squad after appearing for the Republic of Ireland U21s on Friday night, while Sam Parkin was dropped to the bench.

In came new Brighton loan signing David Livermore into the centre of midfield, with Keith Keane moving to right-back, while available again Gallen was preferred up front to Parkin.

The first chance fell to the hosts on four minutes when a weak George Pilkington clearance was hit straight at Garry Hunter. His ball found Wayne Curtis, but he could only flash an effort just wide.

Hall couldn't capitalise on Martin's decent header back across goal moments later, but neither side was really able to impose themselves early on on a bobbly Christie Park pitch.

A surging run by Adam Yates almost then unlocked the Hatters, but Dean Brill was alert to the danger and snuffed it out well at his near post.

Luton, though, almost found a way through just after the quarter-of-an-hour mark. Some Gallen cleverness released Tom Craddock and, although Barry Roche was unable to hold on to his drive, there was no-one on hand to turn the ball home.

But the Shrimps snatched the lead in simple fashion on 21 minutes. Michael Twiss whipped in a decent free-kick to the far post and Drummond rose highest to thump home his header from close range.

Twiss almost undid the Hatters again seconds late when his surging run carried him past Mark Bower and into the box, but he just overran the ball with Luton's defence at sixes and sevens.

The Hatters looked to have got themselves right back into the game on 24 minutes when Hall got on the end of Kevin Nicholls' great cross to head home past Roche, but his goal was harshly ruled out by the referee for a push on a defender.

Luton stuck to their task well and again went close on 32 minutes. Nicholls and Gallen combined well to release Hall into the box, but his driven cross was turned over the bar by Drummond's flailing leg.

With four minutes of the half left Nicholls put in another great cross which appeared to catch a Morecambe arm with both Chris Martin and Hall lurking.

However, Luton got the reward their pressure deserved with an equaliser two minutes before half-time. Yet another Nicholls cross from the right caused consternation in Morecambe's box and, after Hall appeared to be shoved at the front post, Martin was lurking in the six-yard box to force the ball through Roche's legs.

Martin then almost repeated the trick in first-half injury-time as the Hatters were inches away from going into the break in the lead. Craddock's deflected effort fell to Martin in the six-yard box, who swivelled and again squeezed his shot between Roche's legs. This time, however, the ball rolled agonisingly along the line and the hosts were able to clear their lines.

A fantastic counter-attack by the Hatters should have given them the lead just four minutes into the second-half. Brill's great long throw released Craddock on the right, who beat hos man and surged into the box. The former Middlesbrough man then beat three defenders before forcing a brilliant full-stretch stop from Roche, with the ball destined for the bottom left-hand corner.

Martin then seemed certain to score at the far post with the goal beckoning, but Hunter flung himself in the way to turn the ball behind.

Despite all these glorious opportunities the Hatters still found themselves on level terms and, with former burly Bedford Town striker Rene Howe leading the line the Shrimps always looked dangerous in attack.

Craddock headed Lewis Emanuel's cross wide on 55 minutes, as Morecambe's goal continued to live a charmed life under wave after wave of Luton attacks.

And Luton's constant pressure finally told on 59 minutes. Craddock did brilliantly to reach a cross field pass and loop a first-time time ball into the box from the by-line. Hall competed bravely in the box and his header dropped to an offside looking Gallen, who somehow toe-ended the ball past the stranded Roche from close range.

Brill was struggling to take some of the Shrimps' crosses and he was lucky that no-one was on hand to prod home after Twiss's 67th-minute cross had eluded him.

Hunter then warmed Brill's gloves with a blistering strike moments later as the Shrimps signalled they weren't done just yet.

Curtis and Mark Duffy were then just off target with some thunderous efforts, while Howe blasted straight at Brill as the Hatters began to rock.

With seven minutes left Hunter played a delightful reverse ball into Twiss, but Brill produced a good low stop to deny the striker.

At the other end, Luton almost bagged a third seconds later when Craddock and Gallen exchanged some lovely passes on the edge of the box, but Craddock lost control with just Roche left to beat.

Craddock skipped past Danny Adams in injury-time but his deflected shot was straight at Roche, but it mattered not as Luton expertly shut the Shrimps out to claim victory and keep their slim survival hopes alive.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, March 28, 2009

30 MILES TO WEMBLEY SONG RELEASED!

A special new song to celebrate Luton Town's trip to Wembley in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final has been released by the Hatters.

Jane Ledsom and the Shouty Boys are behind Town's official Wembley song – 30 Miles To Wembley (Here Come The Hatters).

With the Hatters taking almost 40,000 fans to Wembley on April 5 for the game against League One Scunthorpe, it will be the largest gathering of Hatters in one place at one time in history and a record for any club at the new Wembley.

On the song, which is based on her previous hit 30 Down To Zero (Here Come The Hatters), she said: "This time we are trying to raise money for the youth development at the club because if we go down this season half of our funding for the sides goes.

"Rather than giving it generally to the club, we are focusing on that side of things."

And Ledsom believes that if half the 40,000 Luton fans who are going to Wembley buy it, the song will chart and really put the Hatters on the map.

She said: "Twenty thousand would get it in the charts somewhere and people would really know Luton are here."

As well as raising money and making people aware of the Hatters' plight, she also believes it's a great way of celebrating Town's trip to the capital.

Members of Hatters' first team squad will also feature in the song's video that will also be available to download soon at http://www.myspace.com/janeledsom. The song is available from iTunes now for 79p.

Ledsom added: "It's brilliant having them involved, especially Sol Davis and Kevin Nicholls who have been real stars and got behind it."

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, March 28, 2009

FA HANDS HATTERS CAPTAIN NICHOLLS FIVE-MATCH BAN

At an FA Regulatory Commission on Monday afternoon, Luton Town midfielder Kevin Nicholls was given a five match suspension.

Nicholls admitted a charge of improper conduct. The charge related to his behaviour immediately following the final whistle in the game against Bradford City on January 4.

Nicholls has the right to appeal this decision. He was also fined £1,000 and warned as to his future conduct. The suspension is scheduled to commence on April 7.

The chairman of the commission said: "Whilst recognising the difficult position the club has faced during the season, as a professional footballer and indeed club captain, Mr Nicholls should have been aware of the consequences of his actions and that his actions jeopardised the safety not only of the match officials but in this case by provoking the fans in what was already a volatile situation jeopardised the safety of the general public.

"The regulatory commission had the benefit of taking all appropriate information in to consideration, including those of the senior police officer in attendance and felt that the behaviour of Mr Nicholls on this day fell way below of that expected of a professional footballer."

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Tuesday, March 24, 2009

CRADDOCK PENALTY EARNS HATTERS VICTORY

A mysteriously awarded penalty gifted Luton Town victory against stubborn Macclesfield Town at Kenilworth Road.

Tom Craddock joyfully smashed home the 69th-minute spot-kick as the Hatters won two league games on the bounce for the first time this season to keep their slim survival hopes alive.

Luton made two changes from the team that snatched a dramatic 2-1 victory against relegation rivals Grimsby Town at Kenilworth Road on Tuesday night.

Match-winner Asa Hall was preferred in midfield to Rossi Jarvis, who dropped to the bench, while Sam Parkin led the line in place of the seemingly injured Kevin Gallen, with Claude Gnakpa named as a substitute.

Luton enjoyed the better of the early exchanges, but all they had to show for it was a woefully off target effort by Craddock.

The hosts were slowly starting to turn the screw and had a decent opportunity on 10 minutes. Michael Spillane arrived late for Kevin Nicholls' corner and his volley fell to Mark Bower, who could only loop his effort over the bar from eight-yards out.

Largely though it was a scrappy affair, with neither side able to impose themselves on proceedings.

John Rooney sent a speculative long-range effort over the bar on 26 minutes, while Spillane wasted a great crossing opportunity moments.

Some good work by Chris Martin on the left then created an opening for Hall in the box, but Jon Brain turned his firm effort round the post.

The Hatters then twice went close in quick succession. First Parkin wasn't quite able to force his header home from Nicholls' corner, while George Pilkington sent his header across the face of goal, which the Silkmen were just able to repel with Martin lurking.

Macclesfield, though, were inches away from breaking the deadlock on 32 minutes. A cross from the left caused Luton's defence all kinds of problems, but luck was on their side as Nat Brown crashed his effort against the bar from just eight yards out as Luton were given an almighty reprieve.

Keith Keane's low effort was fumbled behind by Brain with five minutes of the half left, while from the resulting corner Brain punched against his own bar as Martin and Bower were both left with their heads in their hands.

A surging run from captain Nicholls almost broke the stalemate in first-half injury-time. After some patient build-up he exchanged a great one-two with Parkin on the edge of the area, but a stretching Nicholls could only poke harmlessly at Brain.

With too many passes going astray Luton took their time to get going after the break. Martin's flick-on put Craddock away nine minutes in, but his effort was deflected behind, while Gareth Evans drove straight at Brill seconds later.

The visitors were enjoying more of the play after the break and Emile Sinclair tricked his way past Pilkington in the box with almost an hour gone, but Luton's quickly retreating defence was able to clear the danger.

Luton were given the lead in mystifying circumstances in 69 minutes when Craddock beat a couple of players as he made a surging run to the by-line on the left.

His pull-back went through Hall's legs and the Silkmen seemingly cleared the danger, only for the linesman to flag for a penalty.

After a lengthy decision between the officials the decision stood and Craddock gleefully fired home his 10th goal of the season to go joint top of the goal scoring charts with Hall and Martin.

An unseemly tussle between Lewis Emanuel and Lee Bell saw them both booked on 72 minutes as the game became more frayed and tetchy.

With the Hatters closing in on their second straight league victory for the first time this season the sense of nerves on and off the pitch became palpable.

Martin fired wildly over with six minutes left, while Evans' long-range deflected effort was well held by Brill.

Hall tried his luck again with three minutes left, but his effort whizzed wide, while Martin was toppled in the box in injury time but to no avail.

Luton scrambled away a late free-kick, while substitute Ian Henderson was just unable to take advantage of Martin's cross field pass as the Hatters held on for a hard-earned victory.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Sunday, March 22, 2009

HATTERS SNAP UP KEEPER BUTTON ON LOAN

Luton Town have completed the month’s loan signing of goalkeeper David Button from Tottenham Hotspur.

Button arrives at Kenilworth Road with goalkeeper Lewis Price – the penalty hero against Brighton & Hove Albion that earned the Hatters a trip to Wembley – returning to his parent club Derby County following the return to the side of Dean Brill.

Stevenage-born Button joined the White Hart Lane club’s youth academy during the 2005-06 campaign and made his senior debut during two loan spells with Grays Athletic in 2008, where he made 14 appearances. A loan spell with Rochdale failed to yield a senior appearance, but Button finally made his League debut in 2009 during a loan spell with AFC Bournemouth, making his bow in a 0-1 loss at Rotherham United. He made 4 appearances for the Cherries before returning to North London.

Button was a member of the England U19 squad that reached the finals of the European U19 Championships in May, 2008. He was then named in the squad for the finals, taking place in July, 2008.

Signed by Hatters boss Mick Harford as cover for Dean Brill, Button may find he doesn’t even make a first-team appearance at Kenilworth Road, but he will provide valuable backup for the Luton Town number one.
Story date: Saturday, March 7, 2009

GIANT PROTEST FLAG: CONTRIBUTIONS REQUIRED

Brigg Hatter (Nik Schimmel) is arranging for a giant flag to be made for use inside and outside of Wembley on the 5th April. It will be in Luton colours and include the badge and some choice wording in protest of the FA's punishment of our beloved club.

The flag is going to cost just under £500 to get made and Nik is calling upon fans who feel like him to make a donation towards the costs of its manufacture.

The Wembley final will provide Luton fans with an opportunity to raise the profile of what the authourities have done unfairly to our club.



Anyone who is willing to make a contribution please, please get in touch with Nik by e-mailing nschimmeluk@yahoo.com

Nik is planning to try and ensure we get plenty of coverage and you can play your part in helping him to make this happen.

If Nik is able to raise funds in excess of the costs, he will be donating them to the youth set up at the club.

Contributions can also be made to Nik via PayPal - log on to the Pay Pal homepage, enter Nik's e-mail address and follow the simple steps.

Up the Hatters!
Story date: Sunday, March 1, 2009

EXCELLENT LUTON CLAIM VITAL THREE POINTS

Determined Luton Town battled and scrapped their way to a potentially invaluable three points at Kenilworth Road.

On a heavy pitch, high-flying Shrewsbury Town simply couldn't handle the Hatters’ rugged tenacity.

In a true all-round team performance every player contributed to Luton's victory, as goals from Tom Craddock, Sam Parkin and Asa Hall earned them their first League win of 2009.

Wembley-bound Luton made three changes to the side that booked their place in the final of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy on Tuesday night.

Hero keeper Lewis Price and defenders Michael Spillane and Ian Roper were all ruled out through injury, so there were recalls for Dean Brill, Asa Hall and cup-tied defender Mark Bower. Meanwhile, Ian Henderson and Kevin Gallen, who were both unavailable for the midweek game, started on the bench.

Both teams made a bright start with Chris Humphrey especially lively down the right, and he almost took full advantage of a Sol Davis mistake on three minutes. Humphrey managed to dispossess the left-back and rolled the ball into the path of Grant Holt who shot just wide of the far post.

Chris Martin should then have done better for the Hatters three minutes later when Claude Gnakpa headed a free-kick back across the box and Tom Craddock teed the ball up for the on loan Norwich man, who could only fire wildly over.

A potted and bobbling pitch made good football almost impossible and the Hatters struggled to find their composure in the opening stages of an error-strewn start.

But Luton took the lead out of the blue on the quarter of an hour mark after a mistake by Luke Daniels. The Shrewsbury keeper lost Gnakpa's deep cross in the sun and could only palm the ball behind for a corner, from which Luton took full advantage. Hall flicked Rossi Jarvis’ excellent delivery on and Craddock was on hand to force the ball over the line.

Luton though went to sleep and the Shrews were level just five minutes later. A ball was pumped down the middle and Richard Walker chested beautifully into the path of Ben Davies who poked calmly home past the exposed Brill.

Luton responded immediately, but Daniels produced a flying stop to turn Hall's instinctive 25-yard drive over the bar. Gnakpa was then desperately unlucky to see his header from the subsequent corner fly just wide of the top left-hand corner.

With mistakes from both sides coming thick and fast the bustling presence of Parkin created another opening on 27 minutes. Daniels just beat him to a ball into the box and, with the keeper out of position, Craddock flashed an effort wide.

The visitors then came within inches of taking the lead two minutes later. Luton were just about to repel Davies' dangerous free-kick, only for Humphrey to smash a scorching effort from the edge of the area against the bar. Still Luton couldn't get the ball away, and it was Humphrey again who scorched wide.

Seconds later only some great defending by Edward Asafu-Adjaye stopped Terry Dunfield from getting in behind Luton's defence after a cleverly taken quick free-kick.

Having soaked up the Shrews onslaught the Hatters re-took the lead with Parkin's first goal since August. Martin made a nuisance of himself on the right and his 35th-minute cross was controlled by Parkin, before the target man lashed gleefully home to make it 2-1.

After a brief lull Shrewbury should have equalised in the final moments of the half. Holt and Walker produced a neat interchange of passes on the edge of the box, but the former Forest man could only pull his shot wide. Holt then headed straight at Brill seconds later as the Hatters went into the break with a narrow lead.

And Luton could have extended their lead just seconds into the second half when Jarvis' low free-kick found Hall, but his miss-hit effort ran harmlessly wide.

Shrewbury though always looked dangerous in attack and, after Davies had scuffed a chance when well placed, Holt twice went close on 50 minutes. First Dunfield's clipped pass over the top sent him clear and Brill produced a great one-on-one save to deny Holt. Then, from the subsequent corner, Davis popped up on the line to head away Holt's goal-bound effort.

A mistake by Neil Ashton then gift wrapped a great chance for Craddock, but his bobbling effort ran just past the far post, before Town were given another massive let off on the hour mark when Davies' whipped free-kick from the left smashed off the underside of the bar and away.

The visitors then went close again with 20 minutes left after the Hatters were unable to deal with a seemingly harmless punt down the middle. However, with no-one claiming responsibility Holt was allowed to steal in behind and his effort thankfully ran just wide with the hapless Brill well beaten.

With the Shrews looking the most likely to score again, the Hatters got a real jab in the arm with a third goal on 73 minutes. A throw-in ran into the path of Hall and his 25-yard daisy cutter eluded Daniels and span in off the foot of the right-hand upright.

From that moment Luton sat deep and invited the visitors on to them as they looked to hit the Shrews on the break. Davies and Steven Leslie both had shots blocked in a packed area with five minutes left.

Brill then produced a great one-handed safe to turn away Leslie's header deep into injury-time as Luton triumphed to keep their slim survival hopes alive.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, February 21, 2009

SAVE MONEY WITH THE LUTON TOWN FC COMMUNITY FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN

Luton Town Football Club, in association with the Utility Warehouse, are today launching their Community Fundraising Campaign that can save you money, and raise money for Luton Town FC at the same time.

The Utility Warehouse is operated by Telecom plus PLC; a British PLC listed on the London Stock exchange. Utility Warehouse club members benefit from substantial savings on a wide range of essential utility services including: mobile, landline, gas, electricity and broadband. Members can choose to use as many or as few of the services as they wish. You probably haven't heard of them before, that's because they don't advertise - they rely on their network of Distributors to tell people about them, and because they don't advertise, they save lots of money and they pass those savings on to their customers by charging less for their services. The services are not restricted to just residential customers but also available to small and medium sized businesses as well.

Here are some benefits of joining the Utility Warehouse:

Free calls to UK and international numbers
Best value broadband and phone package
£50 saving on your line rental
UK's best value gas and electricity
UK's best value mobile services
5% CashBack on your petrol and shopping
Unique Customer Discount Plan
Exclusive membership discounts
And...everything comes on one convenient monthly bill!
And as if that wasn't enough, there's no minimum contract on most of the services they provide, so if you're not totally happy with the money you save and their award-winning customer service team...you can go back to paying the higher prices of your current supplier at any time.

The football club will receive a one-off bonus payment (the amount is dependant upon the number of different services taken) for every Luton Town supporter who joins the Utility Warehouse. In addition, the club will also receive an ongoing monthly commission payment based on the amount of each customers Utility Warehouse bill. This does not cost the customer anything and is paid directly to the club by the Utility Warehouse.

For more details, please visit the Hatters CFR website.
Story date: Wednesday, February 18, 2009

LUTON TOWN ARE OFF TO WEMBLEY!

Luton Town booked a place in the final of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy at Wembley with a 4-3 penalty shoot-out thriller against Brighton & Hove Albion at Kenilworth Road.

On-loan keeper Lewis Price was the hero for the home side, his saves from Jason Jarrett and Chris Birchill sparking delirious scenes – including a pitch invasion – among the home faithful.

On the balance of play, it was no more than the Hatters deserved. They dominated possession and territory and although they struggled to break down a stubborn Brighton defence, no one could argue with the result.

The hosts couldn't have wished for a better start as they took the lead in just the second minute.

An appalling mix-up between Michel Kuipers and Adam Virgo on the edge of the box – only they know what they were doing – left Tom Craddock with the simple task of rolling the ball into an empty net.

The visitors' first opportunity came in the 20th minute, Nicky Forster latching on to Dean Cox's pass, but he could only shoot wide of the target.

However, the warning wasn't heeded and a minute later he made amends as Chris Burchill fed him before finishing well past Lewis Price for a scarcely deserved equaliser.

As the clock ran down, the game descended into scrappiness. Martin's crisp left-footed shot in added time forced Kuipers into action, but that was it as the game entered the lottery of a penalty shoot-out.

From the spot, Martin, Craddock, Asa Hall and Ryan Charles found the target and the stage was left for Price to earn himself a place in the club's history books.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Tuesday, February 17, 2009

HAPLESS HATTERS EDGE CLOSER TO THE DROP

The plunge into non-league football moved a step closer as Luton Town went down 1-2 at Dagenham & Redbridge.

Luton gave as good as they got in East London as they dominated for decent periods, but a Danny Foster double made it six games without a win and increased the possibility of Blue Square Premier football that now looks a certainty.

Honours were fairly even at the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham Stadium in the opening stages, which were of a scrappy nature.

The visitors' switch from 4-3-3 to 4-4-2 - Ian Henderson and Rossi Jarvis occupying the wide roles – resulted in a more solid look, but it was the hosts who threatened first.

A dangerous free-kick from Sam Saunders in the eighth minute caused hesitancy in the Hatters' defence and it was left to debutant keeper Lewis Price to make a decisive intervention.

Shortly after, a mistake from Edward Asafu-Adjaye enabled Dagenham to break, but the left-back's blushes were spared as Ben Strevens' effort was deflected wide.

A minute later, Jarvis headed a corner off the line as the home side began to assume control.

Luton's scratchiness was in contrast to the more incisive play of Dagenham, especially from the flanks, and they deservedly went in front in the 20th minute.

Matt Ritchie's low cross from the left somehow found Foster who calmly controlled before rifling the ball past Price.

Luton responded immediately with Asa Hall striking the outside of the post and this heralded a period of pressure although Dagenham still looked dangerous on the counter-attack.

Kevin Nicholls' set-piece delivery looked the most likely source of joy for the Hatters although Tom Craddock should have done better when he shot over from Ian Roper's knockdown.

There were promising signs for Mick Harford's side as the half drew to a close, the impressive Henderson's deflected shot almost wrong-footing Tony Roberts, Hall's header drifting harmlessly wide and Craddock slicing a first-time effort.

Craddock had the first opportunity of the second period five minutes in when he latched on to a Kevin Gallen through ball, but he was denied by a well-timed save by Roberts.

Two minutes later, Price made a good save from Jon Nurse who had been freed by Ritchie and within seconds, Strevens hammered a long-range shot just wide of the target.

Luton, with no choice but to press forward, were becoming increasingly susceptible to Dagenham's pace up front and their task was made harder in the 56th minute when Saunders' cross somehow found its way into the Luton net with Foster being given the goal.

Needing an immediate response, Luton halved the deficit just two minutes before the hour when Henderson collected Jarvis' pass and slotted the ball clinically past Roberts.

An injury to Nicholls forced Gallen back into midfield and left Akanni-Sunday Wasiu to partner Craddock up front.

Ian Roper almost put the Hatters back on level terms midway through the half, but Saunders cleared his shot through a crowd of players off the line. Gallen then turned well in the area only to see his shot have the sting taken out of it by a perfectly timed challenge.

The inevitable air of desperation from the visitors had them gain the upper hand for a spell and they made a final throw of the dice with the introduction of Sam Parkin in the 81st minute to form a three-pronged front line.

As the encounter entered the final five minutes, Craddock stabbed a shot wide, but that proved to be their last chance as time ran out.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Sunday, February 15, 2009

HATTERS BOSS HARFORD SIGNS CRADDOCK

Luton Town have pulled off a major coup by completing the signing of Middlesbrough striker Tom Craddock, 22, on a two-and-a-half year deal for a transfer fee of £80,000.

Craddock spent a successful loan spell at Kenilworth Road earlier this season, scoring 4 goals in 8 appearances for the Hatters.

He initially joined Luton Town on a month's loan from Middlesbrough in mid-October 2008 after impressing Hatters manager Mick Harford during a Reserve team appearance for Boro.

Craddock began his career as a defender, before being converted into a striker and he came through the ranks with Middlesbrough, being a member of their FA Youth Cup-winning side in 2003-04. He made a breakthrough into the first-team when he appeared as a substitute in the final game of the 2005-06 season against Fulham, having already scored 20 goals for the Reserve team.

He joined Wrexham on a month's loan in late October 2006. He scored the winning goal on his debut for the Dragons, but the next day it was discovered he had suffered a knee injury, ruling him out for six weeks.

In mid-February 2008, Craddock joined League One side Hartlepool United on a month's loan, making four appearances before returning to the Riverside Stadium. During the summer of 2008, he signed a one-year contract extension with Middlesbrough.

Craddock continued his impressive form for Middlesbrough's Reserve side during the 2008-09 campaign, bagging seven goals in three appearances upon his switch to Kenilworth Road.

Craddock had an excellent loan spell at Kenilworth Road, netting two valuable goals in only his second appearance for the Hatters in a 2-2 draw at fellow relegation rivals Grimsby Town.

A further goal in a vital 2-1 victory at Bury in the next match firmly cemented him in the Luton Town side, with manager Mick Harford full of praise for the clever runs Craddock made and his clinical finishing.

With Craddock’s loan extended into a second, and then into a third month with the Hatters, he scored another vital goal in a 2-2 draw at Chesterfield on Boxing Day that helped earn a valuable point away from home.

Having scored 4 goals in 8 League appearances for Luton Town, Craddock’s loan period expired in mid-January 2009 and he returned to his parent club, Middlesbrough. However, seen as vital to the Hatters’ bid to avoid relegation from the Football League, manager Mick Harford made an £80,000 offer to Middlesbrough to sign Craddock on a permanent basis and he got his man, bringing Craddock to Bedfordshire to help Luton Town in their quest for “The Great Escape”.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Tuesday, January 27, 2009

HATTERS SIGN BRADFORD DEFENDER BOWER ON LOAN AS TALBOT JOINS SPIREITES

Popular striker Drew Talbot is set to join League One Chesterfield on loan until the end of the season, while experienced Bradford City defender is poised to join the Hatters on loan.

Talbot, 22, has played more than 60 games for the Hatters in all competitions, but netted just five goals since signing from Sheffield Wednesday for £250,000 in January 2007.

His work rate has made him a favourite with the Kenilworth Road crowd, but it is understood that if he plays again for the Hatters the club will have to make a sizeable payment.

Manager Mick Harford said: "It's been going on for seven to 10 days with Drew Talbot and he is going to go on loan to Chesterfield until the end of the season.

"He has wanted to move back up north.

"He has another year left on his contract and we will see where it goes next season."

Meanwhile, Luton Town have completed a one-month loan deal for Bradford City defender Mark Bower.

Provided all the paperwork goes through, the 29-year-old centre-half is set to make his debut at Bournemouth tomorrow night.

Bower has made over 200 appearances for the Bantams, and Big Mick is keen to secure his signature with Keith Keane and George Pilkington sidelined and Ian Roper suspended for Saturday's visit of Bury.

Harford added: "We are trying to sign a centre-half and trying to bring in Mark Bower from Bradford. He has been on the bench and unfortunate not to be in their team.

"I feel it is a great acquisition with Ian Roper being suspended next weekend and Keith Keane carrying an injury."

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Monday, January 26, 2009

BIZARRE PENALTY AWARD COSTS HATTERS DEARLY

A bizarre and frantic finale saw Luton Town denied three valuable points in the sixth-minute of stoppage-time.

Asa Hall looked to have snatched the Hatters a point when he headed home his second of the afternoon in injury time, only for referee Trevor Kettle to break Luton's hearts as he awarded City a penalty at the death, an opportunity they gleefully accepted.

It had looked so good for Luton as they raced into a 2-0 half-time lead with goals from Hall and Sunday Waisu, but the Bantams staged a terrific second-half fight back to claim a draw, in a game that was chaotic from start to finish.

Despite Tuesday night's successful 0-0 draw at Brighton & Hove Albion in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy area final first leg, Luton boss Mick Harford decided to make four changes to his starting line-up.

Cup-tied trio Wasiu, Ian Henderson and Kevin Gallen all came into the starting 11, with Claude Gnakpa dropping to the bench. Drew Talbot and Paul McVeigh dropped out of the squad entirely, while an extremely strong looking bench also included fit-again club captain Kevin Nicholls and returning striker Sam Parkin.

Keith Keane, meanwhile, who had been due to start as captain in the centre of the defence was pulled out just before the start with a hamstring injury, with Ian Roper taking his place and Rossi Jarvis taking the captain's armband.

The Bantams made a lively opening, with Steve Jones' pace taking him clear on three minutes, but he could only pull his shot well wide.

However, the Hatters took the lead just two minutes later when Jarvis whipped in an excellent corner to the front post and Hall rose highest to glance his header home.

Bradford boasted plenty of pace in attack though, and looked a threat every time they went forward.

Luton struggled to get hold of the ball too often during the half, but had another decent chance again on 21 minutes when home debutant Henderson curled in a cross to the far post, but a combination of Hall and Chris Martin could only head over.

With Henderson off the field receiving treatment for a cut head, Bradford began to dominate, but former Hatter Paul McLaren could only loft a shot over the bar from the edge of the area on the half-hour mark, when well placed.

Matthew Clarke then headed a corner over three minutes later as Luton struggled to break City's stranglehold.

However, with Henderson back on the field, Luton launched a lightning counter-attack. Jarvis fed Gallen, who launched a brilliant cross field pass to the onrushing Henderson, who was brought down Luke O'Brien and received a yellow card for his troubles.

And Luton took full advantage with their second goal eight minutes before the break. Jarvis launched a long free-kick into the box and Wasiu, on his home debut, just beat Rhys Evans to the ball to prod home from midway inside the box.

Worse followed for the visitors when Bantams boss Stuart McCall was dismissed by referee Trevor Kettle after saying something from the sidelines. McCall was further incensed when told he would have to walk round the pitch and clambered into an executive box as he made his disdain clear.

And with a minute left Luton went close again, but Wasiu's header from Henderson deep cross, deflected off a defender and over.

Luton then got a lucky let off in first half injury time when the lively Steve Jones sent a teasing cross into the box, but Peter Thorne flicked his header just wide.

And Bradford went close again second later when they were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the box, but Law, who took the first one too quickly and was booked, twice sent dipping efforts just over the bar.

The visitors made a lively start to the second-half, pulling a goal back with less than two minutes gone. A corner to the far post was headed back across goal by Clarke and McLaren was on hand to stab home from just a few yards out.

Bradford skipper Graeme Lee then tried his luck with a 35-yard piledriver on 50 minutes, which Logan had to beat away.

And the visitors equalised on 56 minutes as their pressure paid dividends. Roper appeared to be fouled in the build up, but Law pulled the ball back to Dean Furman who did well to create room on the edge of the area before thrashing home into the bottom left-hand corner.

Omar Daley then scythed through the Hatters team with a 50 yard run, before blazing an effort just over. Thorne then went close again on 67 minutes when he saw another header run just inches wide.

Luton though should have reclaimed the lead though as they twice went close on 71 minutes. First Gallen did brilliantly to poke the ball on to Wasiu who raced through but, with only Evans to beat the big striker could only shoot tamely at the keeper. Martin was quickly on to the rebound, but his low curling shot whizzed just wide of the right-hand upright.

Bradford though continued to press with both Furman and Jones sending sizzling efforts just over, before substitute Barry Conlon almost made an instant impact, but headed over from a corner with 12 minutes to go.

City were looking like the only team in it in the closing stages and Conlon should have done far better when he headed Omar Daley's cross wide with six minutes left. Jones then threatened again with two minutes left and could have gone down under a clumsy Roper tackle.

Sam Parkin's introduction made a real difference and after Martin had just been unable to connect with his cross, the on-loan Norwich man then won a free-kick on the edge of the box. Kevin Nicholls swung the ball into the far post and Hall was on hand to gleefully head home his second.

And yet there was time for more drama as in the dying seconds erratic referee Kettle took centre stage. A flick on by Conlon ran into the box and amid a melee of players he somehow saw fit to give a penalty. Michael Spillane was singled out by the official and as both sets of players squared up, Nicholls was booked and Martin shown a straight red card.

Kettle's decision capped a bizarre day's work from the official and Conlon made no mistake as he rolled home the penalty in the sixth minute of stoppage-time to snatch a point.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, January 24, 2009

LUTON BOSS HARFORD BIDS FOR CRADDOCK

Ambitious Hatters have made a bid to sign Premiership striker Tom Craddock on a permanent basis.

Middlesbrough hitman Craddock, who scored four goals in eight league appearances for the Hatters, has returned to the north east after his loan spell at Kenilworth Road ended on Saturday.

And while the 22-year-old will not be returning to the club on a temporary basis, Luton boss Mick Harford remains hopeful that he may be able to secure a deal to bring the young striker to Kenilworth Road on a permanent basis.

Harford said: "Unfortunately Tom has come to the end of his loan. We were desperately trying to keep him at the club.

"We have made a monetary offer for Tom Craddock to try and attract him away from Middlesbrough.

"I saw Tom as part of our survival plan. There's still a chance Tom may join us in the future, but not at the moment."

Boro' manager Gareth Southgate, meanwhile, has confirmed that he will allow Craddock out again on loan this week.

Craddock's success at Kenilworth Road has made a whole host of other clubs interested in his signature, with League One Huddersfield Town leading the chase.

Huddersfield, managed by former Newcastle midfielder Lee Clark, have turned their attention to the 22-year-old after being knocked back in their pursuit of Carlisle's former Boro man Danny Graham.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, January 24, 2009

HAPLESS HATTERS THUMPED AT DARLO

A crazy six-minute spell midway through the first-half condemned Luton Town to a comprehensive defeat in the north east against Darlington.

Darlington's impressive strike force simply blew the Hatters away as they followed up an early penalty with three goals in six minutes in under half an hour.

And, despite fielding five strikers after the break, Luton were unable to make an impression on the Quakers who added a late fifth as they cantered to victory.

Luton made just one change to the team that started the 2-2 draw at Chester City on Tuesday night for their first ever visit to the Darlington Arena. With Lewis Emanuel out for the season after rupturing his medial knee ligaments, into the back four came adaptable defender Ed Asafu-Adjaye at right-back, with Michael Spillane switching to centre-half and George Beavan to left-back.

Luton made a decent start and could have taken the lead from a corner in just the second minute, but Ian Roper was just unable to connect with Rossi Jarvis' corner.

And the Hatters continued to make a bright opening in their revamped orange Diadora shirts. Playing at a high tempo, Asafu-Adjaye managed to find some room on the edge of the box two minutes later, but on-loan stopper Dean Gerken got down well to smother his effort.

However, Darlington's strike force looked dangerous and they got the ball in the net on eight minutes, only to have it chalked out for offside. Keith Keane's clearance was blocked and ran straight into the path of Liam Hatch to stab home past the exposed Conrad Logan, but fortunately for the Hatters the linesman had raised his flag.

But moments later the hosts did take the lead when Roper made a rash challenge on Rob Purdie and referee Jon Moss had little option but to give the penalty, which Purdie stroked confidently into the bottom left-hand corner.

Roper almost atoned for indiscretion from another Jarvis corner on 14 minutes, but he could only send his header just over the bar.

Darlington-born striker Tom Craddock should really have levelled seconds later when Ian Henderson's brilliant cross field ball sent the striker clear on the right, but he could only lash his shot wide from just inside the box.

Both teams looked highly dangerous in attack and the Quakers almost doubled their lead from a dangerous Purdie free-kick on 19 minutes, but Roper somehow headed clear.

Some neat interchange football from the Hatters created a great chance for Kevin Gallen on 21 minutes, but Darlo captain Steve Foster managed to get in a great challenge to turn the ball behind.

The action was flowing from end to end and Darlo went close again seconds later when Jason Kennedy skipped past Luton’s defence and his shot deflected off Asafu-Adjaye and just wide.

But that only postponed the inevitable as Hatch was allowed to loop a free header home from a corner seconds later to double Darlo's lead.

And the game was as good as over when Hatch scored his second in three minutes on 26 minutes. Purdie's cross picked out Franz Burgmeier at the far post and, after his header had hit the underside of the bar and come out, Hatch rushed in to force home the rebound.

Unbelievably Darlo made it 4-0 just two minutes later when some slipshod Luton defending allowed Neil Austin to win the ball in the box from Pawel Abbott's pass and calmly tucked the ball home into the bottom right-hand corner.

With an embarrassing defeat on the cards, Luton responded immediately. A lightning attack found Chris Martin in room on the left-hand side of the box and his instinctive rising drive gave Gerken no chance on the half-hour mark.

The impressive Hatch, on loan from Peterborough United, almost claimed his hat-trick when he swivelled and raced towards goal on 39 minutes, but this time he pulled his effort well wide.

Hatch turned Roper again two minutes later, but Abbott could only toe-poke his tantalising cross wide.

Desperate for a road back into the game, Jarvis pinged a firm long-range effort straight at Gerken in first-half injury-time as the Hatters were booed off the field by their travelling supporters at the break.

With nothing to lose, Luton boss Mick Harford threw on new Colchester United loan striker Akanni-Sunday Wasiu at the break in place of Jarvis, as he fielded five forwards for the second-half.

Ricky Ravenhill almost opened up Luton's defence five minutes in, but he couldn't get a shot or pass away while Burgmeier fired wildly over seconds later.

Darlo went close again several times on 56 minutes. Beavan was twice forced to head the ball off the line, while Hatch spooned a gilt-edged opportunity over the bar from just a few yards out.

Luton responded with a decent chance of their own three minutes later. Good work by Wasiu caused problems and Henderson's deep cross was eventually looped just wide by Tom Craddock.

With time slipping away, Craddock flashed a shot just wide on 67 minutes, while Hatch thought he had completed his hat-trick three minutes later when he stabbed home after Logan had parried substitute Seb Carole's venomous effort, but his strike was ruled out for offside.

Purdie forced Logan to turn a decent effort over the bar seconds later, Abbott fired straight at Logan on 77 minutes and Hatch headed just over before being substituted.

And Craddock summed up Luton’s dreadful day with eight minutes left when he carved out a shooting chance on the edge of the area before firing high and wide.

Substitute Gregg Blundell then rubbed salt in the wound with five minutes left when Abbott's through ball set him clear and he slid the ball past Logan to make it 5-1.

Gerken then produced a great save to deny Spillane in injury-time after good work by Martin as Luton's eight game unbeaten run came to a crushing end.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Sunday, January 18, 2009

LUTON MIDFIELDER SPRING MAKES CHARLTON MOVE

Luton Town midfield dynamo Matthew Spring has signed for Championship side Charlton Athletic for an undisclosed fee.

The 29-year-old midfielder, who was on a season's long loan at Sheffield United, has signed an 18-month deal at the Valley.

On his third capture during the January transfer window, Addicks boss Phil Parkinson said: "We're really pleased to get Matty on a permanent signing.

"He's a quality footballer and an experienced player. I've said that there is a certain category of player we're looking for, ones with Championship experience, and Matty fits the bill.

"He's also got a good range of passing, so he adds something different to the midfield, and we're looking forward to working with him.

"It's been quite a complicated deal, and there's been a lot of hard work behind the scenes, talking to the player, to Sheffield United and Luton.

"These deals are never as straightforward as they look, and I know (chief executive) Steve Waggott has worked exceptionally hard to make it happen, so I thank him for that."

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, January 10, 2009

TWO OUT, ONE IN FOR HARFORD

Luton Town boss Mick Harford has wasted no time as the January transfer window opens, signing attacker Ian Henderson.

The manager also revealed, after the 3-2 win over Lincoln City, that midfielders Garreth O'Connor and Kevin Watson have been released by the club.

Twenty-three year old Henderson signs from League One side Northampton Town, for whom he didn't find the back of the net in 33 games for the Cobblers after joining from Norwich City. He joins fellow Canaries Michael Spillane and Chris Martin who are on-loan from Carrow Road until the end of the season.

O'Connor and Watson both signed short term deals with the Hatters in the summer but have been on the fringes of the squad and only managed nine appearances between them.
Story date: Sunday, December 28, 2008

MARTIN AT THE DOUBLE AS LUTON WIN CHRISTMAS CRACKER

Adventurous Luton Town made it seven games unbeaten as they produced a real Christmas cracker at Kenilworth Road.

Imperious Luton turned on the style as they let loose against a Lincoln City side who more than played their part in this festive feast.

Chris Martin took on the starring role with a two-goal salvo, while fans' favourite Ian Roper once again came up trumps with another header.

And there were fabulous cameos from across the Luton line-up as they gifted the home faithful an ideal late Christmas present of three precious points.

Having played so well to grab an injury time 2-2 draw at Chesterfield on Boxing Day, Hatters boss Mick Harford made three changes to the starting XI. Asa Hall dropped out of the squad entirely, while Paul McVeigh and Jake Howells were benched. In came Martin, Drew Talbot and George Beavan as the Hatters named four strikers in an extremely attacking line-up.

Luton got off to a sluggish start and had a disjointed feeling about their play early on. And the visitors took full advantage on seven minutes when Conrad Logan failed to claim a dangerous cross from the left by Aaron Brown and Luton's defence somehow managed to scramble the ball away.

Luton though gradually worked their way into the game and twice went close on 11 minutes. Crowd favourite Ian Roper's header from Rossi Jarvis' corner was blocked out and Martin could only fire the rebound into the side netting.

Dany N'Guessan opened up Luton's defence two minutes later with a jinking run and his cross from the by-line was only just deflected behind.

And the Imps should have taken the lead on 16 minutes when Lewis Emanuel gave away a silly free-kick and, when the ball was whipped in, they were lucky to see János Kovács send his free header just wide.

Some more haphazard defending from Keith Keane then let N'Guessan in, but he could only hit a low shot straight at Logan.

Luton went straight for the jugular in reply and were unlucky not to take the lead on 19 minutes. A flowing move saw Gallen and Jarvis launch a lightning counter attack and Talbot's venomous left-foot drive was well turned over the bar by Rob Burch.

And after a lull the Hatters took the lead with a scintillating goal on 31 minutes. Keane won the ball in the middle and Kevin Gallen showed great awareness to spread the ball wide to the onrushing Michael Spillane on the right. Spillane then put in a beautiful first-time cross right on to the head of Martin who made no mistake from about six-yards out.

Two minutes later it was 2-0 as Martin struck again. Tom Craddock laid the ball into the path of the on-loan Norwich City youngster and Martin drilled home from the edge of the box despite Burch getting a hand to it.

But Luton's defence went to sleep and allowed the Imps to hit back just five minutes later. N'Guessan found space on the right and his low cross was allowed to run right through the heart of the Hatters' back line to Lenell John-Lewis at the far post and although Logan saved his first effort, John-Lewis made no mistake with his follow-up.

Jarvis did well to win the ball with two minutes of the half left and when Craddock's ball Martin the striker went for his hat-trick from 20-yards but was denied by Burch.

And Town almost grabbed a third in injury time as the ball spun wickedly from a Martin challenge on Aaron Brown at the far post and ran just wide.

The Hatters almost made the best of start to the second-half when a Burch clearance went straight to Gallen. His header sent Talbot clear but the out-of-touch striker dragged his effort a foot wide.

However, the Hatters were not to be denied. Having just failed to connect with a Jarvis corner, Roper made no mistake from just a yard out when Spillane delivered another telling ball into the box.

Luton were really turning on the style and it took a great fingertip save from Burch to turn Jarvis' 30-yard free-kick just over the bar.

Lincoln went mighty close again on 73 minutes. With the game descending into a niggly, narky affair, Kovács slammed a shot across the face of goal only for it to smack into the far post and out. Substitute Adrian Pătulea couldn't quite net the rebound, while Sam Mullarkey hurt Logan as he went for the loose ball.

Lee Beevors then curled a dipping effort inches wide with 12 minutes left as Lincoln began to turn the screw a little.

At the other end, Craddock then poked just wide after some tireless running by Martin, while Spillane was just unable to connect with an Emanuel cross.

But just as it looked like the game was dead and buried Lincoln struck again when Pătulea was allowed to squeeze home from the narrowest of angles.

Five minutes of injury-time were added, but despite a nervy finish Luton just about clung on for victory.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Sunday, December 28, 2008

LAST GASP ROPER GOAL EARNS HATTERS POINT

Giant centre-half Ian Roper was hero and villain as Luton Town starred in their own fairytale adventure at Chesterfield.

In true pantomime style, crowd favourite Roper was at fault for Chesterfield's opener before redeeming himself with an equalising header late injury-time.

The Hatters had put in a battling Boxing Day display, only to be caught with two sucker punches by the Spireites.

Luton did most of the running and created majority of the chances at Saltergate, but Chesterfield weathered Luton's barrage as they landed two telling blows in between Tom Craddock's fine leveller late in the second-half. However, Roper rose highest in the sixth minute of stoppage-time to write a fairytale ending for Luton's travelling army of 805 supporters.

The hosts were also aided by referee Dave Webb's controversial decision to book Craddock for a dive rather than give the Hatters a stonewall penalty midway through the second-half and with the scored locked at 1-1.

Luton made three changes to the team that drew 1-1 with Morecambe on Saturday as manager Mick Harford stuck with his 4-3-3 formation. Chris Martin and Drew Talbot dropped to the bench, while in came fit-again Middlesbrough loanee Craddock on the right of a nominal front three spearheaded by Kevin Gallen, with Lewis Emanuel coming in on the left of Luton's defence.

The Spireites boasted former Luton misfit Darren Currie in their midfield, but were missing star striker Jack Lester and ex-Hatter, Alan Goodall, who were both suspended for the encounter.

The game got off to a slow start, but the visitors were almost undone by a quickly taken long throw on six minutes. Jamie Ward was the recipient, but he could only pull his shot well wide with the defence flooding back.

Spireites stopper Tommy Lee was forced to change into a red top on nine minutes, because his grey shirt was too similar to Luton's white, but that was as much trouble as he was caused in the opening stages of an initially turgid encounter.

But the visitors produced a beautiful move on 12 minutes that should have allowed Paul McVeigh to give Luton the lead. Gallen and Craddock combined sublimely to create the opening, but McVeigh could only thunder straight at Lee.

Luton then had another glorious opportunity on 20 minutes. Asa Hall's firm header was beautifully threaded by Gallen, but Craddock could only drag his effort horribly wide with only Lee to beat.

The visitors were easily creating the best chances and looked in again on 33 minutes when the ball fell to Gallen in the box, but the veteran hit man was flagged offside as he flashed wildly over.

However, Luton were almost undone by an unkind deflection seconds later. Keith Keane's attempted clearance clattered into Lloyd Kerry and Ward flashed his effort across the face of goal.

Craddock and Gallen combined well again on 37 minutes, but again the out of touch Middlesbrough man could only hammer well wide of the mark.

With two minutes of the half left Luton went close again. Rossi Jarvis dug out an excellent cross on the right but Michael Spillane could only send his header straight at the sprawling form of Lee.

Then totally against the run of play Chesterfield snatched the lead on the stroke of half-time. Centre-half Ian Roper stumbled and Ward managed to shrug off Emanuel to race on to a long ball over the top before firing home past the exposed Conrad Logan for an undeserved lead.

Luton started the second-half with intent but, despite winning a free-kick on the edge of the area three minutes in, Emanuel could only smack his effort straight at Chesterfield's defensive wall.

And lively Luton deservedly levelled on 56 minutes. McVeigh's wonderful chip over the top was seized on by Craddock and his snapshot from seven-yards out left Lee with no chance.

However, the Spireites look lively on the break and it was Ward who almost undid them again on 61 minutes. Roper's rebounded header fell kindly for him as he burst down the left and Logan did well to parry his effort before Emanuel cleared.

And controversy supreme on 71 minutes when it looked like Luton should have had a penalty. This time Craddock and McVeigh exchanged passes and when Craddock went down over Aaron Downes' challenge it looked for all the world a penalty. However, County Durham referee Webb deemed Craddock to have dived and awarded the Spireites a free-kick and Craddock a yellow card.

Luton continued to press with McVeigh having an effort blocked and Craddock rounding Lee, but unable to get a shot away.

Ward, a constant thorn in Luton's side, turned the game with eight minutes left. First Keane blocked a good chance, before Logan saved a pile driver. Seconds later thought he did well to spread the ball to substitute Scott Boden on the left and he kept his cool to beat Logan from eight-yards.

Boden was almost in again with four minutes left, with only some desperate defending from Roper and Keane keeping them out.

Luton refused to give up and Craddock forced Lee into another stop with two minutes left when he connected with a header at the far post.

Hall was then denied by a fabulous save as Lee somehow turned over his header bound for the top right-hand corner as Luton looked to be heading for a morale-crunching defeat.

However, deep into injury-time Luton snatched a dramatic equaliser. A dangerous Jake Howells corner was whipped into the Spireites' six-yard box and Roper rose highest to head home into the bottom left-hand corner as the Hatters got just reward for a battling performance.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Friday, December 26, 2008

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM LUTONFC.COM!

Lutonfc.com would like to wish each and every Hatters fan a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

It has been a very turbulent year for Luton Town, which started with a superb draw against Liverpool – despite being in administration – saw the changing of managers, the sale of star players and the arrival of new owners and an entirely new squad of players. Of course, the major issue this year was the unprecedented deduction of 30 League points by the FA and the Football League that has seen us plummet to the bottom of the Football League and face an epic battle to maintain our League status for the first time in our history.

However, with the 2020 consortium behind the club, we have hope and with Mick Harford as manager, we know we have someone in charge of the football affairs who truly has Luton Town at heart. We have battled to minus 5 points and if we can get to zero points by the new year, who knows what could happen.

As always, one thing is for sure – life as a Luton Town fan is never dull!

There is also some possible light at the end of the tunnel in the shape of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy, where we find ourselves in the regional finals, playing League One Brighton & Hove Albion over two legs. Should we shock the Seagulls, we’d face either Scunthorpe United or Rotherham United at Wembley – our first visit to the famous stadium since 1994 and our first visit ever to the redeveloped stadium.

Of course, retaining our League status is the priority, but the financial rewards for reaching Wembley would be excellent for the club and if any fans deserve a trip to Wembley then nobody could argue it would be us!

The battle is on – we are still alive and fighting – and I’m sure under 2020 and Mick Harford we will battle until the very last kick of the ball. It will surely go right down to the wire and 2009 is going to be a huge year – arguably the biggest ever in Luton Town’s history – so here’s hoping we’ll have something to celebrate for a change!

Thank you to everyone who has visited Lutonfc.com in 2008, we have some big plans for the site for 2009, so please do keep visiting as we enter our NINTH YEAR online!

COME ON YOU HATTERS!
Story date: Thursday, December 25, 2008

LUTON JUST TWO GAMES FROM POTENTIAL WEMBLEY FINAL

Dreams of a showpiece Wembley final remain very much alive for Luton Town after they squeezed past Colchester United in their Johnstone's Paint Trophy area semi-final at Kenilworth Road.

Luton certainly road their luck during the tie, as the U's were twice denied by the woodwork and went close to scoring on numerous occasions.

But they managed to hold out and Claude Gnakpa's goal means a two-legged area final against League One Brighton & Hove Albion is all that stands between the Hatters and a first appearance at Wembley since 1994.

Hatters boss Mick Harford made three changes to the side that started the weekend's goalless draw at Wycombe Wanderers.

Veteran forward Kevin Gallen was cup-tied, while Paul McVeigh and Chris Martin were both given a rest and were named on the bench. It meant there were starts for the returning Edward Asafu-Adjaye at right-back and the recalled Gnakpa on the right-hand side of midfield.

Striker Drew Talbot also returned from injury and took his place up front alongside former Colchester forward Wayne Andrews, while stand-in skipper Keith Keane was restored to central midfield, as Luton returned to a 4-4-2 formation.

Ex-Luton skipper Chris Coyne, who had initially been named among the visitors' substitutes, was re-introduced to the home faithful earlier than expected.

He came on for the unfortunate Matt Heath just six minutes into the match, after the U's defender had come off worse following a clash of heads with Gnakpa when going for a high ball in the centre of the pitch.

A half-empty stadium hardly set the scene for a frenetic Cup Semi-Final and the game started slowly with neither side looking like they were going to get out of second gear in the opening exchanges.

Colchester forged the first chance of the evening on 15 minutes and the home side were fortunate that Scott Vernon's header back across goal wasn't better directed, as it just crept just the wrong side of the post with goalkeeper Conrad Logan desperately trying to recover his ground.

Andrews then lifted the home support off their seats eight minutes later when his ambitious driven shot from 25-yards needed United stopper Dean Gerken to dive to his right and palm the ball out for a corner.

Shortly before the half hour mark, Keane was forced off through injury and, with important League Two games coming up over Christmas, Harford quickly replaced him with youngster George Beavan.

Luton began to put together a few promising attacks and Talbot was guilty of taking a touch too many on 29 minutes when darting in from the left towards the box and, when he did finally get a shot away, it was blocked by a Colchester wall.

But, a minute later, Luton did take the lead when the ball found it's way out to Gnakpa on the edge of the box, who struck a shot past the helpless Gerken and into the net.

The U's almost struck back six minutes before the break when Vernon let fly with a left-footed volley that crashed against the underside of the crossbar, but fortunately bounced out to safety.

Less than a minute into the second period, Luton were almost caught cold when Vernon sneaked beyond the defence and just beat the offside trap but, luckily for Luton, he wasn't able to get the ball out of his feet quickly enough to put the ball beyond Logan. And, with the danger still not fully averted, defender John White thrashed a long-range effort high and wide.

Colchester then went even closer to hauling themselves level on 50 minutes as first, Johnnie Jackson's fierce shot had Logan beaten, but the effort hit the inside of the right-hand post and the loose ball fell kindly for Luton to clear.

Seconds later, Anthony Wordsworth managed to get up to meet a Jackson free-kick from the left but, once again for the visitors, the ball finished up agonisingly wide of the target.

At the other end, Rossi Jarvis was just inches from doubling the Hatters' lead with a free-kick from the edge of the box.

Colchester kept chasing a leveller and were unlucky again on the hour mark when they had a couple of sights of goal following a breakaway attack, but Kem Izzet and substitute Mark Yeates were both left frustrated as their efforts were blocked by some resilient Luton defending.

The visitors then missed a gilt-edged chance to level the tie with 10 minutes remaining, when unmarked sub Steven Gillespie looked odds-on to convert a low cross at the back post, but somehow he fired his close range shot wide.

The Hatters were left to see out a nervy climax, with five minutes being added on by the referee.

The U's desperately searched for an equaliser, with Wordsworth heading over from a corner and Logan making a low diving save in the dying seconds, but it was Luton who held on to progress to the next round.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Wednesday, December 17, 2008

PLUCKY LUTON EARN POINT AT LEADERS

Gutsy Luton Town left Adams Park with renewed optimism that they can complete mission impossible after completely outplaying League Two leaders Wycombe Wanderers.

Any neutral spectator would have been hard pressed to pick out which team was top and which was bottom and in truth, Luton would not have been flattered had they managed to take home all three points.

But the game ended goalless in testing conditions and the visitors got back on the bus having chalked off another point from their minus total.

Luton boss Mick Harford kept faith with the same 4-3-3 formation that worked so well for them against Barnet last weekend, although he was forced to make two changes from the side who started that match.

Wayne Andrews and Asa Hall came in for injured Drew Talbot and George Pilkington.

It was the home side who forced the first real clear cut opening of the afternoon on eight minutes, when Lewis Hunt raced in to meet Matt Phillips' inviting cross from the left, but he was just unable to keep his shot down.

The visitors' first attack on goal came on 16 minutes, when a defensive slip handed possession to Paul McVeigh, who played a pass into Chris Martin and, after his shot was charged down, Andrews shot wildly wide from 25-yards.

Despite the difficult conditions for both sets of players under foot, the play was fast-paced and end-to-end.

Moments after Luton had an opportunity desperately hacked off the line on 21 minutes, Phillips unleashed a crashing shot at the other end that ended up just a couple of inches over Conrad Logan's crossbar.

Just before the half hour mark, Logan did brilliantly to tip away Matt Harrold's low header, while Andrews' shot four minutes before the break was just narrowly wide, as the first half ended goalless.

Luton started the second-half in positive mode and were kicking towards the end where their vociferous supporters were sat.

Kevin Gallen had a header well saved by 'goalkeeper Scott Shearer on 54 minutes while moments later, the stopper's slip almost handed Luton the lead but, luckily for him, Andrews' shot from an acute angle was cleared off the line.

A minutes later, Shearer once again had to be at his best to palm another Gallen header away from the danger area, and then needed two attempts to re-claim the ball after initially fumbling Rossi Jarvis' skidding shot on 62 minutes.

As the game entered the closing stages, substitute George Beavan fired a dangerous low into the six-yard box on 81 minutes, while Ian Roper's tackle on striker Vieira at the other end moments later was deemed fair by the referee, despite the home side's screams for a penalty.

On 86 minutes, Vieira found himself with a clean run on goal but was denied a clear goal scoring opportunity as Logan rushed off his line to gather the ball at the striker's feet.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, December 13, 2008

LUTON STING BEES TO CLAIM VITAL WIN

A lightning start set Luton Town on their way to a vital three points in League Two as they saw off ten-man Barnet at Kenilworth Road.

The Hatters were two-up inside the opening 15 minutes and, despite a brief fight back from the visitors, the win was sealed three minutes from time.

Barnet had to play the entire second half with 10-man after their goal scorer Abu Ogogo was given his marching orders as the players left the field for half-time.

Luton started with the same formation in which they finished the midweek 3-3 draw with Bournemouth.

Desperately needing a win, they employed an attack-minded 4-4-3 shape, with out-of-sorts right-back Claude Gnakpa dropping to the bench, and replaced by the returning Michael Spillane, who was back after a one-match suspension.

Centre-half Ian Roper was also back in the fold after injury and partnered George Pilkington at the heart of defence, while stand-in skipper Keith Keane moved into the centre of a three-man midfield.

The home side forced the first real chance of the match on eight minutes, when Kevin Gallen's pass found Chris Martin down the left and, after cutting back inside, the striker's low effort forced a good save out of ex-Luton stopper Rob Beckwith.

Three minutes later, though, Luton did take the lead when Martin's ball inside set-up Paul McVeigh, who took a touch before firing a terrific right-footed shot into the top left-hand corner from 25-yards

And they doubled their advantage on 14 minutes, when the unmarked Martin did brilliantly to meet Rossi Jarvis' perfect free-kick from the right and his header flew past Beckwith and into the bottom corner.

The on-fire Hatters then came within a whisker of putting the game out of sight less than 60 seconds later, when they won a free-kick on the edge of the box and Gallen drilled his low attempt through the wall but just a shade the wrong side of the post.

It was all one-way traffic and, on 17 minutes, McVeigh unleashed a dipping right-footed volley from distance that needed Beckwith to tip it over the crossbar, while Drew Talbot also had a chance to get his name on the scoresheet, but fired over from a tight angle shortly afterwards.

Keane saw his shot flash just wide of the right-hand post on 25 minutes while at the other end, Barnet registered their first effort on goal after 33 minutes but Albert Adomah's shot was well dealt with by Conrad Logan.

Luton, who should have been out of sight, handed Barnet an unlikely lifeline five minutes before half time when they failed to properly clear their lines and, after the ball found its way out to Kenny Gillet on the left, his cross into the six-yard box was converted by Ogogo.

After the half time whistle had blown Ogogo, who had already been booked, was then sent-off as the players left the field following an altercation with Martin.

With a one-man advantage, Hatters started the second half looking to restore their two-goal advantage and came close when Pilkington headed narrowly wide from a Jarvis corner on 51 minutes, before Spillane saw his effort turned on to the post by Beckwith moments later.

The visitors continued to invite Luton on to them in the second-half and seemed content to try and snatch something on the break rather than commit men forward searching for an equaliser.

Jarvis crashed a shot over on the hour mark, while Luton also had what looked like a decent appeal for a penalty waved away by the referee on 70 minutes, after Spillane had done well to see off a couple of challenges inside the area and his mazy run was brought to a halt, just as he looked like getting a shot away.

Beckwith was at full-stretch turn Talbot's shot around the post for a corner of 79 minutes, while he also had to be at his best to prevent McVeigh's free-kick from finding the net shortly afterwards.

Luton did finally seal their much-needed win three minutes from time when a ball over from the right was diverted past his own 'keeper by Michael Townsend and, despite the fact Hatters centre-half Ian Roper will try and claim it, the Barnet man got the final touch.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, December 6, 2008

LUTON TOWN SACK COACHING DUO

In a rather strange move, Luton Town have sacked Assistant Manager Warren Neill and Fitness Coach Joe Dunbar.

It comes after a poor run of form, which has seen the Hatters lose their last two League games to Brentford and Rochdale – and almost go out of the FA Cup to non-league Altrincham. It has left Luton looking almost certain to drop out of the Football League for the first time in their history, with the club still on –11 points as we enter into December.

Manager Mick Harford – himself under increasing pressure from certain sections of the Hatters fans, despite his hero status – said, “Both guys have done a tremendous amount for the club and fans should thank them both for their contribution. We had a huge task on our hands putting a squad together for this season and without their knowledge and support that would have been an impossible task.

“They have supported me during this difficult year and I am full of gratitude for their support and friendship. I know both guys very well and respect them hugely. Very few people would have taken on the challenge at the time they did and I wish them every success in the future.”

Gary Sweet, Managing Director of LTFC2020 commented, “We know the situation we are in and we are aware of the skills needed. Warren and Joe have done a great job for us but this club is in a unique situation and clinical action is sometimes required in order for us to maximise our chances of survival.

“Decisions like this are always hard and we have spoken to them both personally to explain the situation, however, now we feel we need to introduce a change of emphasis at this time. We will be taking interviews and making an announcement in the next few days on their long-term replacements.”

Antony Brown, LTFC2020 Director, said, “We have a good squad of players and we need to overcome injury problems. Everyone strongly believes that we can overcome the plight we face and we know the importance of being able to play our first-choice eleven. As the club is stabilising financially we have the opportunity to step up the support in the dressing room and on the training pitch so that is what we intend to do.”
Story date: Thursday, November 27, 2008

HAPLESS HATTERS LOSE AT ROCHDALE

In arctic conditions Luton Town froze at Rochdale as they missed out on the chance to make up ground on relegation rivals Bournemouth and Grimsby Town.

With the pair having drawn 3-3 last night, victory could have put the Hatters right back into the mix, but a series of bizarre refereeing decisions by Steve Bratt – key in both goals – coupled with an inept Luton performance saw the Hatters limp to a lacklustre 0-2 defeat.

The Hatters made two changes from the team that ground out a penalty shoot-out victory at Altrincham on Tuesday night. With both captain Kevin Nicholls and youngster Jake Howells unavailable, in came Kevin Gallen up front and Rossi Jarvis into the centre of midfield alongside Asa Hall, with skipper Keith Keane dropping to left-back.

Depleted Luton started slowly and it took Dale less than two minutes to take the lead. A harshly awarded free-kick against Keane by referee Bratt was taken quickly and Scott Wiseman's near post cross was met by Lee Thorpe's diving header into the bottom right-hand corner.

The hosts were all over the Hatters and Thorpe should have double their tally on five minutes, but Michael Spillane's flick just put off the Dale hitman.

And Dale should have extended their lead again on 12 minutes when another ball over the top caused consternation in the Luton defence. Gary Jones first time square ball found Thorpe in plenty of space, but a great last-ditch tackle from Jarvis was just enough to put Thorpe up, whose effort drifted just over the bar.

Cladue Gnakpa had a snapshot blocked on 14 minutes, but it did little to stem the Rochdale tide.

After a dreadful start Luton started to work their way back into the game but without really endangering the Rochdale goal.

Martin tried his like with a spin and a strike on 28 minutes, but they were struggling to create anything in freezing conditions and with a referee intent on whistling at every opportunity.

And Dale went close again on the stroke of half time when Tom Kennedy swept yet another free-kick into Luton's box but Rory McArdle flashed his header wide.

Kevin Gallen's through ball set Martin free on 54 minutes but his run run was brought to an end 30-yards out by the chellenge of Nathan Stanton and Gallen could only smash the free-kick into the defensive wall.

And Bratt continued his string of bizarre decision when he penalised Ian Roper – the subject of partizan home appeals all afternoon – for a foul on McArdle at a 58th minute corner.

Adam Le Fondre then stepped up to power home the resulting penalty to Logan's right as Luton were once again punished for a dubious decision.

The Hatters carved out their best chance of the game on 68 minutes when Roper flicked on a deep free-kick to Martin, who once again did well to twist on the edge of the box, but he could only fire well over.

Dale should have had a third with 14 minutes left when Thorpe streaked down the left before pulling the ball back for Le Fondre, but the diminutive striker's effort flew inches over.

Sam Russell then pulled off an unbelievable stop to deny the Hatters two minutes later. Substitute Drew Talbot met McVeigh's inviting cross with a firm downward header, but Russell somehow threw out a foot to deny the diminutive striker.

Logan pulled off a decent stop to deny Joe Thompson with only three minutes left, while Harry Worley had a late effort well blocked but in truth Luton never really deserved anything from the contest.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Sunday, November 23, 2008

HAPPY HATTERS CLAIM THREE POINTS AT BURY

Luton Town for once buried their chances and made their first-half dominance count as they clung on for victory at Gigg Lane against Bury.

In a true game of two halves, Luton put in a fantastic first 45 minutes, going into the break 2-0 up thanks to goals from Tom Craddock and Ian Roper.

But Roper went from hero to villain in the second-half as he gave away a clumsy penalty, which allowed Andy Bishop to bring Bury right back into the match.

The Shakers laid siege to the Hatters goal throughout the second-half, but some dogged and determined defending helped the Hatters hold on for three incredibly important point against high-flying Bury.

For the first time in some weeks manager Mick Harford was able to name an unchanged side as he fielded the same 11 players who started the 2-2 draw at Grimsby Town on Tuesday night.

The only change saw fit again striker Wayne Andrews come in on the bench for target man Sam Parkin, who this week joined Leyton Orient on a three-month loan deal with a view to a permanent move.

Luton made a bright start and could have been ahead after barely two minutes. Jake Howells took a clever quick free-kick to release Chris Martin but, having shrugged off the challenge of former Hatters centre-half Efe Sodje, he could only fire into the side netting from a tight angle.

And Luton went close again on five minutes from Howells' corner. Both Roper and Michael Spillane were in the mix, but Bury keeper Wayne Brown was on hand to gather on the line.

However, the visitors were given an almighty let off seconds later. A long ball over the top allowed Chris O'Grady to brush his way past Michael Spillane and race clear. His lob easily beat Conrad Logan, but the Bury striker was desperately unlucky to see his seventh-minute effort bounce off the top of the bar on its way over.

In a free-flowing game Luton were denied a goal in hugely debatable circumstances two minutes later. The lively Craddock raced on to Claude Gnakpa's header down the right hand side before squaring a beautiful ball across the box for the onrushing Chris Martin. Bury Keeper Wayne Brown could only parry the ball into the path of Howells who drilled the ball low towards goal, only for it to come off the prostrate form of Martin lying on the line and into the back of the net.

After a brief conversation between referee Craig Pawson and his assistant, the linesman raised his flag to silence the away fans' celebrations.

In an enthralling and open game, the Shakers went close again on 24 minutes. A long ball into Luton's box found Bishop but his header was turned away by a strong diving stop from Logan.

But Luton finally got the reward their dominance merited thanks to a Brown gaffe on 35 minutes. Gnakpa staged a storming run down the right before putting in a great cross for Craddock. The on-loan Middlesbrough striker did well to pivot in the box and send in a thunderous shot which Brown looked to have covered, only for the ball to squirm under his body and dribble into the net.

The hosts almost levelled though five minutes before the break. Elliott Bennett fired in a great low cross from the right which Ryan Cresswell did well to turn goal wards at the near post, only for the unsighted Logan to pull off a great instinctive stop.

And Ian Roper doubled Luton's advantage just a minute before the break. The Shakers failed to clear a deep Howells corner and Martin did brilliantly to nick possession in the box for the Hatters. Craddock then put in a lovely searching cross to the back post where both Gnakpa and Roper were queuing up to score, but it was the veteran defender who powered home his first goal for the Hatters to make it 2-0 at the break.

The second-half got off to a mixed start and a marauding run and strike from Gnakpa forced Brown into a decent low stop on 50 minutes.

But the hosts hauled themselves right back into the game moments later. Luton failed to properly clear the danger and as Richie Baker burst into the box he was chopped down by a cumbersome challenge by Roper. And Bishop made no mistake, drilling home from the spot after 53 minutes.

The Shakers were certainly causing a stir in the second-half and only some desperate Luton defending was keeping them out.

Bury dominated territory and possession as the Hatters dropped deeper and deeper across the pitch.

Bennett warmed Logan's gloves from range on 75 minutes while Bishop dragged an effort well wide moments later.

The hosts continued to turn the crew as the minutes ticked down and Baker curled a dubiously awarded free-kick just over with eight minutes left.

In a rare foray into Bury's half Craddock went close with five minutes left. The young striker cut inside two defenders before stroking the ball just wide.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, October 25, 2008

HAPLESS HATTERS LOSE AT HOME AGAIN

Things went from bad to worse for hapless Luton Town as they capitulated to a 1-2 home defeat against minnows Accrington Stanley in their first ever competitive meeting.

The Hatters struggled to stamp their mark on this game as stubborn Stanley frustrated them throughout and starved them of possession.

Some shoddy Luton defending twice handed the visitors the lead and all Luton had to show for their efforts was Asa Hall's fine first-half volley.

Injury-ravaged Luton were forced to make two changes from the team that lost so disappointingly 1-2 at home to Darlington last weekend. Ian Roper came in at the back for fractured ankle victim Edward Asafu-Adjaye, while Middlesbrough loan striker Tom Craddock made his full debut in place of suspended Frenchman Claude Gnakpa.

Manager Mick Harford also included 16-year-old schoolboy striker Jordan Patrick on the bench for the very first time.

And Craddock almost made an immediate impact on three minutes when he appeared to be obstructed in the area but nothing was given. The ball then ran to Chris Martin on the edge of the area, but his effort was deflected over the bar.

A poor back header almost let Martin in again on seven minutes, but Minnows keeper Kenny Arthur just beat the young striker to the ball, although the Stanley stopper was injured in the challenge.

Despite the early chances Accrington were enjoying the greater share of possession and they unsurprisingly took the lead on 16 minutes. Harry Worley's poor defensive header went straight to James Ryan and Paul Mullin turned his low cross from the right home from just a few yards out.

Luton finally found a bit of urgency and could have equalised on 19 minutes. Keith Keane's free-kick was headed back across goal by Worley but, stretching for it, Martin could only head over the bar.

Luton were at sixes and sevens at the back and some more haphazard defending from Jake Howells and Worley almost let the visitors in again moments later.

The hosts were struggling to put two passes together and the crowd began to get restless as the half wore on.

The Hatters almost got themselves back into the game after half an hour when Conrad Logan's big kick downfield ran all the way through to Craddock, but he could only shoot into the side-netting from a narrow angle.

But just as things were looking dire the Hatters equalised in spectacular fashion on 34 minutes. Howells put in a telling cross from the left and Hall met it with a looping volley that spun over Arthur and into the far corner of the net.

Stanley were straight back at the Hatters as they put in a number of dangerous crosses, Logan having to palm one over the bar and claw away a misplaced Roper header.

Hall went close again with another volley on 38 minutes. Substitute Wayne Andrews combined well with Michael Spillane on the right, but Hall could only side foot over from the edge of the box.

Craddock almost marked his debut with a goal on 39 minutes but, having rounded Arthur, his fine strike was ruled out by the linesman's flag as the half ended all square.

Luton looked lively right from the start of the second half and could have had a penalty after just two minutes when Andrews forceful run was brought to a premature end in the box, but nothing was given.

However, the Hatters were looking shaky at the back and Accrington almost pulled ahead again on 52 minutes when Paul Mullin's header sent Terry Gornell clear, but Logan did well to save at his feet with the linesman flagging for off-side.

Seconds later Luton worked a decent shooting chance on the edge of the area, but Hall's long range effort flew wide.

More slipshod defending from the Hatters allowed Stanley to take the lead again on 54 minutes. The impressive Paul Mullin was allowed to head a free-kick back across goal and Gornell was on hand at the far post to power home from close range.

Chasing the game game Luton began to turn the screw, Craddock having a shot deflected wide on 58 minutes and Spillane heading over the subsequent corner.

Paul Mullin could have made it three on 61 minutes but Luton had a let off when his free header looped just over the bar.

Luton were struggling to create chances against a well-drilled Stanley outfit and Martin could only send a rasping 30-yard effort wide on 65 minutes.

Ryan's long ranger was almost fumbled into the net by Logan with 14 minutes left, while Martin went unrewarded seconds later when he went down in the area after bursting into the box.

Andrews was just unable to capitalise on Craddock's flick on two minutes later, while Luton should have levelled with six minutes left. Craddock twisted and turned into the box and, although Arthur got a hand to his shot, the ball rebounded to Andrews who could only stab wide from three-yards out.

Luton piled on the pressure in the closing stages and Arthur produced a great one-footed save to deny Hall with a minute left and Craddock was just unable to capitalise on the loose ball.

Paul McVeigh almost opened up Stanley at the death, but they were just able to clear behind. Cradock then sent a woeful free-kick over the bar as Stanley clung on for victory.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, October 18, 2008

HATTERS MANAGER HARFORD SIGNS STRIKERS ANDREWS AND CRADDOCK

Luton Town manager Mick Harford has signed former Coventry City and Crystal Palace striker Wayne Andrews until January.

Andrews trained with the Hatters and was without a club having left Coventry City during the summer. The fact that Andrews is a free agent means Harford can sign the striker despite the transfer window closing on September 1st.

Andrews began his career with the Hatters' arch rivals Watford, making his debut as a substitute in a 2–1 away victory against AFC Bournemouth. He started the following game and made 27 more appearances in his first professional season. Early in the 1997–98 season, Andrews broke his ankle and subsequently missed the rest of the campaign. In his absence, Watford were promoted to Division One (now known as the Championship) and Andrews found himself behind a number of other strikers. He was loaned to Cambridge United, for whom he only played twice, and, in February 1999, to Peterborough United, for whom he scored four goals on his debut, a 5–2 win over Barnet.

Upon being released from his contract in April 1999, Andrews moved into non-league football with St Albans City, Aldershot Town and Chesham United before being spotted and signed by Iain Dowie for Oldham Athletic in summer 2002 upon the reccomendation of Dowie's brother, who was working at Chesham United.

Andrews had scored regularly at non-league level, having bagged 11 in 24 appearances for St Albans City, 10 goals in 37 appearances for Aldershot Town and 20 goals in 31 appearances for Chesham United. His fine form continued at Boundary Park as be netted 11 goals in 36 appearances for the Latics in 2002-03 before leaving to join Colchester United in 2003. He did well at Layer Road, netting 14 goals in 46 outings for the U's before joining Dowie once again, this time at Crystal Palace in 2004, with the Eagles having just been promoted to the Premiership.

Andrews found it very difficult to establish a first-team place at Crystal Palace. He found himself behind a number of more established strikers at the club and was even tested as a winger. Following the lack of opportunities, both parties decided to go their separate ways.

Shortly after his release he was signed by Coventry City. He had only scored one goal for Palace in his two seasons there, ironically against Coventry.

He appeared only as a bit-part player for the Sky Blues and, after impressing in a game against his Sheffield Wednesday side, Brian Laws signed Andrews on loan in time for their next game to fill in for the injured Wade Small on the right-wing. Andrews made nine appearances for the South Yorkshire team in which they only lost twice. He scored his only goal in the 11th minute of a Yorkshire derby against Barnsley in a 3–0 victory at Oakwell.

In January 2007, Andrews began a one-month loan spell at then League One promotion contenders Bristol City and, after coming on at half-time, Andrews notched his first goal for the club against previous employers Oldham Athletic. Bristol City won the game 3–0. He then continued this form by scoring the Robins' only goal in a win away versus Blackpool. This was arguably one of the most important goals in City's season as they finished only two points above Blackpool, clinching a promotion spot.

Andrews returned to Coventry, where he failed to force himself into first-team contention; he started only one game at the start of the 2007–08 season. Andrews was sent on loan to Leeds United in October 2007 with the intention of easing their striker shortage problem. Andrews initially joined on a one-month loan deal with the option to extend the deal until the end of December, but he was sent back to Coventry at the end of the month having made only two starts for the club.

In March 2008, it was confirmed that Andrews would be released by Coventry at the end of the 2007–08 season. It was announced shortly afterwards that he would join Bristol Rovers on loan for the rest of the season, at which point he would become a free agent. Unfortunately for Andrews, he suffered knee ligament damage just seventeen minutes into his debut with Bristol Rovers, bringing an early end to his season.

Following his release by Coventry, Andrews spent the 2008 pre-season at Bristol Rovers recuperating from his knee injury and attempting to earn a contract with the West Country club. During July 2008, he spent some time at Lilleshall, where he received treatment on his knee and he has now pitched up in Bedfordshire to join Mick Harford's side in their quest for League survival.

Harford has also signed 20-year old Middlesbrough striker Tom Craddock on a month's loan after he impressed Harford when the Hatters manager watched Boro's Reserve side play Tottenham Hotspur this week.

Craddock began his career as a defender, before being converted into a striker and he has come through the ranks with Middlesbrough, being a member of their FA Youth Cup-winning side in 2003-04. He made a breakthrough into the first-team when he appeared as a substitute in the final game of the 2005-06 season against Fulham, having already scored 20 goals for the Reserve team.

He joined Wrexham on a month's loan from in late October 2006. He scored the winning goal on his debut for the Dragons, but the next day it was discovered he had suffered a knee injury, ruling him out for six weeks.

In mid-February 2008, Craddock joined League One side Hartlepool United on a month's loan, making four appearances before returning to the Riverside Stadium. During the summer of 2008, he signed a one-year contract extension with Middlesbrough.

Craddock has also been in impressive form this season for Middlesbrough, bagging seven goals in three appearances upon his switch to Kenilworth Road.
Story date: Tuesday, October 14, 2008

HATTERS BOSS HARFORD SNAPS UP O'CONNOR

Luton Town manager Mick Harford has swooped to sign former AFC Bournemouth and Burnley midfielder Garreth O’Connor on a free transfer.

Midfielder O’Connor, 29, has signed a four-month contract at Kenilworth Road after impressing Harford during a three-week trial spell with the Hatters, during which time he scored three goals in two Reserve team appearances.

An attacking midfielder who can operate on either wing, O’Connor was released by Burnley during the summer after 38 League appearances and 7 goals for the Clarets during a three-year spell at Turf Moor.
He started out playing for Bannow Celtic in Dublin, where he soon caught the attention of Belvedere Boys, a well known schoolboy club. He started his senior career in the Bohemians "B" team but, with a breakthrough to the first-team proving elusive, he moved to Shamrock Rovers, making his debut on March 14th 1999 against Derry City.

After 8 League appearances at Tolka Park, O’Connor returned to Bohemians, where he played for just one season (1999-00), gaining an FAI Cup runners-up medal before being snapped up on a free transfer by English Football League One club AFC Bournemouth in 2000, where he played 204 games and scored 28 goals.

In May 2005, Garreth moved on a Bosman transfer to play in the Championship with Burnley, where he played regularly during the 2005-06 season, mainly scoring his goals from set-pieces. One of his most memorable goals was a 25-yard free-kick against Wolverhampton Wanderers, in a match which Burnley won 1-0.

However, his appearances became less regular during the second half of the season and he spent the 2006-07 season as a little used substitute and squad player. He did, however, score Burnley's second goal in a 2-3 defeat at Reading after coming on as a substitute. He was placed on the transfer-list at the end of that season.

In June 2007, O'Connor returned to Bournemouth on trial with the possibility of a season-long loan. Eventually, he moved to the Cherries for a brief loan spell, playing 6 League matches for Bournemouth before returning to Turf Moor. There he found himself frozen out of the first-team squad by then Clarets boss Steve Cotterill and not even given a squad number.

One of new Burnley manager Owen Coyle's first actions in regards to his first-team squad was to give O'Connor a first-team squad number for the remainder of the 2007-08 season. However, at the end of the campaign, O’Connor was released after 38 League appearances and 7 goals for the Clarets and he joined Luton Town on trial, impressing Hatters boss Mick Harford enough to be signed on a permanent basis, where he will be hoping his experience can help Luton Town avoid the seemingly impossible and retain their League status despite a 30-point deduction imposed by the FA and the Football League.
Story date: Monday, October 6, 2008

HATTERS HELD TO DRAW BY CHESTER CITY

Visitors Chester City stole a barely deserved draw at Kenilworth Road as Luton Town’ sleepy defence handed the Seals a late equaliser.

The Hatters had early tried to hand the visitors an early lead with some haphazard defending, but claimed a 1-0 first-half lead thanks to Claude Gnakpa's bravery and stubbornness and Asa Hall's fine finish.

However, the visitors grabbed a barely deserved leveller with 14 minutes left when the fiery Paul McManus rose well to power home a header.

And not even Kevin Roberts’ late dismissal could inspire the Hatters to find a winner despite peppering John Danby's goal.

Luton made two changes from the side that played so abysmally against Rotherham United last weekend. Fit again Conrad Logan replaced Dean Brill in goal, while Sol Davis came in for striker Sam Parkin, ruled out with a lower back injury.

That meant manager Mick Harford re-jigging his line-up, with Marc Pugh partnering Chris Martin up front and Lewis Emanuel moving on to the left-hand side of midfield.

Luton started slowly and the visitors should have been ahead after just three minutes. Michael Spillane's clearance rebounded straight off Keith Keane and, as Harry Worley tried to play offside, Kevin Ellison was allowed to run clean through, but Logan was quickly off his line to smother at Ellison's feet as he overran the ball.

And Ellison had another great opportunity from another horrendous error on 11 minutes. Logan slipped as he cleared the ball straight to Ellison, but the striker's chip went well wide with the goal begging.

Luton finally started to get their act together on 14 minutes, with a flowing move instigated by Gnakpa, but no-one could get a shot away to challenge Danby in the Chester goal.

Ryan Lowe forced a low stop out of Logan on16 minutes after some sloppy play by Keane on the edge of Luton's box, while at the other end Emanuel had a thumping effort well blocked on 18 minutes after a clever short corner.

With Luton finally finding their feet, Keane went close again for Luton on 24 minutes. Davis burst down the left and Martin flicked his ball on to Keane. However, the Hatters captain struggled to find room on the edge of the box and his heavily deflected effort was well held by Danby.

And the hosts almost got a huge slice of luck on 29 minutes. Emanuel's teasing cross from the left just evaded Pugh a few yards out from goal and Paul Linwood's clearance behind went just inches wide of the far post.

At the other end Shaun Kelly sent a thumping header from a corner just over.

Hall showed some nifty footwork to work himself space just outside the box with 10 minutes of the half left, but his low drive ran just wide of the left-hand upright.

And Luton took the lead with four minutes of the half left with a Hall screamer. However, much of the praise has to go to Gnakpa's persistence and bravery. The Frenchman battled brilliantly on the right to dig a cross out from the by-line as he went flying into the hoardings and Hall unleashed a ferocious drive to beat Danby.

Martin then went close in the last seconds of the half when Hall headed back across goal, but his acrobatic effort flashed well wide.

Some exceptional individual skill from Martin almost got the Hatters off to a flying start to the second half. Running from the halfway line he beat two players before curling his effort just wide of the far post.

Martin, who was at the heart of most of Luton's best play, burst clear down the left again with some more trickery on 58 minutes, but his cross-cum-shot was easily dealt with.

And Pugh should have doubled the hosts' lead on 64 minutes when Emanuel long ball forward sent him clean through but, under pressure from a defender and the advancing Danby, he poked wide.

Chester substitute Ant Barry almost had an immediate impact on 69 minutes when Luton struggled to clear a corner properly. The ball ran to Barry and Keane did brilliantly to clear his ferocious strike off the line.

Some good work by Emanuel caused problems in City's defence with 15 minutes left. Martin and Linwood both went for his ball into the box and Danby had to be aler to save.

And seconds later Chester levelled. Luton failed to deal with a free-kick deep into their box and the diminutive McManus rose well to power home a great header.

McManus then missed a glorious opportunity to give the visitors the lead on 78 minutes. Another ball in the left caused all kinds of problems but the City striker was unable to stab home.

Keane was then terribly unlucky not to burst the net a minute later. A half cleared corner fell to him 25 yards out and his cracking volley was beaten away by Danby.

Another marauding run down the right from Gnakpa ended with a fabulous cross, but Pugh could only head over at the far post.

Spillane headed Keane's corner over with six minutes left, while Hall flashed a dazzling 25-yard half-volley just wide seconds later as Luton turned up the heat in the closing stages.

Luton were given a late boost when Roberts was show a second yellow card for an impetuous challenge on Hall.

Hall then had one effort headed over and skewed another just wide as the Hatters desperately pursued a winner.

Substitute Jay Harris almost stole victory at the death for the visitors, but his long range grass-cutter streaked just wide as Luton were held to a hugely disappointing draw.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, September 27, 2008

BRILL ERROR COSTS HATTERS AT ROTHERHAM

Luton Town stopper Dean Brill was left with egg on his face after the Hatters lost out to relegation rivals Rotherham United at the Don Valley Stadium.

The Millers stole victory midway through the second-half in a comical fashion almost worthy of their celebrity fans the Chuckle Brothers, who were present at the game.

Alex Rhodes’ hopeless cross looked to be innocuous enough as it sailed 35-yards through the air, but back-pedalling Brill was left embarrassed as the ball dipped in just below the bar for the game's decisive goal.

It was an important victory for the Millers, who were deducted 17 points by the Football League compared to Luton's double whammy of 30 from the League and FA, as they moved further away from the drop.

Luton made two changes from the team that grabbed a late 3-1 home win against Aldershot Town last weekend. Dean Brill came in between the sticks for on-loan stopper Conrad Logan, while new Leicester City loan signing Harry Worley came in at centre-half for the injured George Pilkington.

With captain Kevin Nicholls and stand-in skipper Pilkington both sidelined, last season's captain Keith Keane took over the armband.

Andrew Nicholas was causing Luton plenty of problems with his long throws early on and it was following one of these that the hosts should have taken the lead on nine minutes.

Luton were unable to clear a cross into their box and Drewe Broughton, under pressure from Brill, somehow skewed the ball over the bar from just a few yards out.

The Millers threatened again on 18 minutes when a fine through ball sent Rhodes clear but with just Brill to beat he was pulled back for offside.

Luton's away support was in full voice throughout, but the vacuous nature of the sparsely populated Don Valley Stadium – Rotherham's temporary Sheffield home - made it difficult to keep the atmosphere in.

The Hatters finally forced their first corner of the game on 35 minutes and could have snatched the lead from it. Rossi Jarvis' dangerous delivery found Michael Spillane at the far post, who seemed to be manhandled by his marker, and the young centre-half, off balance, could only head just over.

And moments later Marc Pugh broke down the left before pulling the ball back to Chris Martin on the edge of the area where he could only kick thin air when well placed.

Asa Hall then unleashed a thunderbolt from 25-yards out with only three minutes of the half left and, although it was straight at Andy Warrington, the Rotherham keeper just about managed to beat the ball away.

Luton had the first chance of the second half when Pugh, Parkin and Martin combined well, but Parkin could only scoop his shot well over from the edge of the box.

And Luton should have taken the lead on 56 minutes when a quickly taken free-kick put Pugh clear down the left and his inviting cross was allowed to run right across the face of goal without anyone able to get a decisive touch.

But the Millers got a huge slice of luck to snatch the lead on 61 minutes. Rhodes' miss-hit cross sailed miles through the air and eventually looped over the back-pedalling Brill and into the net.

Brill then saved the visitors' bacon on 70 minutes when Luton failed to deal with yet another ball into their box. It eventually found its way to Reuben Reid at the far post and Brill did well to deny him, diving low to his right to turn his shot round the post.

Rotherham went close again on 76 minutes when Luton had trouble clearing a corner and, when it was fired back in, Reid turned it goal wards, only for Luton to scramble it off of the line.

Brill then produced a fine flying stop seconds later, diving to his left to turn aside Rhodes' drive.

Rotherham continued to press to the death, as the Hatters struggled to make any impression at the other end, and the Millers ran out worthy winners.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, September 20, 2008

HATTERS SIGN DEFENDER WORLEY ON LOAN

Luton Town have signed 19-year-old Leicester City central defender Harry Worley on a month’s loan.

Manager Mick Harford has moved to fill the gap left by a broken metatarsal to George Pilkington by snapping-up the highly rated former Chelsea defender.

Worley began his career with Stockport County as a youth team player and his impressive performances at Edgeley Park attracted the attention of England’s biggest clubs. Eventually, during the summer of 2005, Chelsea signed Worley for a tribunal set initial fee of £150,000, with further payments depending upon progress.

He turned professional in November 2005 and in his first season at Stamford Bridge, he made the most appearances at youth level.

He joined Doncaster Rovers on loan in March 2007, making his debut in a vital 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest. He went on to make 10 appearances for Doncaster before returning to Chelsea.

He was then selected by Blues boss José Mourinho for the 2007 FA Community Shield against Manchester United on 5 August 2007, at the new Wembley Stadium. He was an unused substitute as United won 3-0 on penalties.

Worley joined Carlisle United on loan in August 2007 and made his debut for the Cumbrians in a 1-0 victory against Cheltenham Town. However, this would be the only game he would play for Carlisle.

In February 2008, Worley was given a trial by Leicester City and the then Foxes manager Ian Holloway said he was impressed with him after seeing him play in a reserve match.

He then joined Leicester City on loan until the end of the 2007-08 season before signing a 3-year contract the following summer.

Worley made his League debut for the Foxes in a 0-3 defeat to Sheffield United on 5 April 2008, and his last appearance of the season in a 0-0 draw against Stoke City as Leicester were relegated at the end of the season.

His permanent move to Leicester City, on a free transfer, became official in May 2008.

A talented young defender, Worley becomes the sixth on-loan player at Kenilworth Road.
Story date: Thursday, September 18, 2008

LATE LUTON SHOW SEES OFF ALDERSHOT TOWN

Out of sorts midfielder Asa Hall showed his depth of character by looping home last gasp header to snatch an invaluable late with for Luton Town.

Hall had struggled throughout the match, but made no mistake with his fine header at the death.

Lively striker Chris Martin then made sure of victory with a third goal late in stoppage-time, but in truth Luton rode their luck for much of the second-half and the game only really swung in their favour after Ricky Newman had been dismissed for a horrible challenge on Rossi Jarvis.

The Hatters had played with zest and verve during the first-half but only had Michael Spillane's strike to show for all their efforts.

Aldershot dominated after the break and looked the most likely winners after John Grant had levelled early in the second-half. But Luton rallied late on a staged a storming comeback to claim what had seemed an unlikely victory.

After last week's disappointing 1-2 defeat at Macclesfield Town, manager Mick Harford rung the changes, introducing three different players into the starting side. Conrad Logan came in for Dean Brill between the sticks, new loan signing from Shrewsbury Town Marc Pugh went straight into the team on the left side of Luton's midfield, with Lewis Emanuel moving to left-back and Sol Davis dropping out of the squad entirely. With captain Kevin Nicholls still unavailable, Hall came in for Kevin Watson in the centre of Luton's midfield, with George Pilkington taking over the skipper's armband.

Luton started in lively fashion and Sam Parkin could have given them the lead after just two minutes. Aldershot couldn't deal with Lewis Emanuel's cross, but Parkin could only prod over from seven-yards out.

Martin then did brilliantly to elude the Shots defence three minutes later, but his dangerous cross was allowed to run run across the face of the vistors' goal without anyone being able to get a touch.

Luton were all over the visitors and Rossi Jarvis was desperately unlucky not to bulge the net on six minutes. He did well to control the ball 25-yards out before unleashing an instinctive drive that Nikki Bull did magnificently to turn behind. Pilkington then headed straight at Bull from the resulting corner.

The visitors then came within inches of taking the lead on 10 minutes. Luton were unable to deal with a dangerous long throw and, while Louie Soares original effort was never going to trouble Logan, centre-half Anthony Charles hit a curling shot on the turn that rebounded off the foot of the post and out.

Martin curled an effort straight at Bull on 14 minutes, while Bull did well to palm away Parkin's drive seconds later.

And the hosts deservedly took the lead on 17 minutes with a well-worked goal. The impressive Jarvis fired a great cross into the box and Spillane slid in to toe poke the ball home

Luton should have doubled their lead seconds later when Parkin's clever through ball sent Martin clear, but Bull brilliantly denied him with his feet.

With Luton in full flow, the game came to an impromptu stop on 19 minutes when Keith Keane crashed a speculative free-kick over the bar and cracked the fascia board above the goal, causing a broken piece of wood to hang precariously over the bar. For about nine minutes the game drew to a stop before club staff finally found a ladder and stadium manager Peter Kemp was able to retrieve the errant piece of wood.

The Hatters continued to keep up the pace after the break, forcing a string of corners with both Hall and Pilkington going close.

Some confusion in the heart of Luton's defence almost presented Aldershot with an equaliser on 37 minutes. Pilkington and Logan both waited for each other as an innocuous ball over the top caused all kinds of problems and only some desperate defending prevented Marvin Morgan from turning the ball home.

Substitute Kirk Hudson then stole in behind the Hatters' rearguard seconds later and Logan had to stand firm to beat his effort behind.

With nine minutes added by the referee, Luton continued to push and Parkin's close range header had to be cleared off the line by Lewis Chalmers.

It took the Shots just six second-half minutes to level. A long curving ball from the back caught Luton's back line flat-footed and John Grant raced clear to nonchalantly scoop the ball past the exposed Logan.

Hudson, however, should have levelled deep into stoppage time when a great cross-field pass put him into space but, with only Logan to beat, his lob sailed just over.

And they almost took the lead seconds later when they streamed forward in numbers and only a fine stop from Logan denied Junior Osborne.

Claude Gnakpa then had to come to Luton's rescue with a fantastically timed tackle as Grant raced clear on 59 minutes.

Substitute Scott Davies then flashed a venomous shot just wide as he almost gave the visitors the lead with his first touch.

Gnakpa then rescued Luton again on 67 minutes with another timely intervention as Hudson was set to pull the trigger from close range.

After being battered for much of the half Luton finally began to work their way back into it on 72 minutes. Keane's deflected effort was well held by Bull, while Emanuel's raking cross seconds later came back off the woodwork.

The game suddenly took another turn with 12 minutes left when Ricky Newman made an ugly challenge on Jarvis, running his studs high up the midfielder's leg and referee Phil Dowd had no hesitation in showing Newman a straight red card.

Luton received another blow when a poor challenge by Scott Davies on Pilkington forced the Hatters captain off the pitch with a nasty looking leg injury.

But just when it looked like Luton would have to settle for another frustrating home draw, Asa Hall produced a fantastic finish to snatch victory. Gnakpa's curving cross was met well by Hall and the midfielder looped his header beyond the despairing dive of Bull and into the top right-hand corner.

And Chris Martin made sure of victory deep in stoppage-time when Gnakpa's cross was headed back across goal by Parkin and Martin swept powerfully home to seal victory.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Sunday, September 14, 2008

FORMER HATTER TURNER RETURNS AS YOUTH COACH

Former player and assistant manager Wayne Turner has returned to Kenilworth Road for a third spell at the club.

Turner, who played for the Hatters in the late 1970s and early 80s, has taken on the role of U16s coach at the club's centre of excellence.

The 41-year-old will assist Jon De Souza in his new role.

Following his appointment, Turner commented: "Everyone knows I love the club.

"I've had some brilliant times here and I'm really excited about the future.

"For the first time in many years we have a board who are totally committed to youth development and when I heard the plans I couldn't wait to join and do my bit."

Turner, who also played for Coventry, brings a wealth of experinece to his new job having had managerial roles at Peterborough and Stevenage Borough and, more recently, scouting positions with Leicester and Crystal Palace.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Friday, September 12, 2008

HATTERS SIGN SHREWS WINGER PUGH ON LOAN

Luton Town manager Mick Harford has secured the signing of Shrewsbury Town left-winger Marc Pugh, 21, on a month’s loan.

Pugh will train with his new Hatters team mates this morning (Friday) and will be available for Saturday’s League Two home clash with Aldershot Town.

Manager Mick Harford said, “We’re delighted to have Marc with us. He’s desperate to play regular first-team football. He’s a winger with terrific pace and we feel he’ll be a big asset to us over the next month.”

Also able to operate as a striker if required, Marc represented England in the North-West of England team and attended the All Saints High School in Rossendale. He began his career with Burnley as a Centre Of Excellence player and worked his way up the ranks to become an apprentice with the Clarets.

As a first year apprentice, he played for the youth and reserve teams alongside taking a 'Modern Apprenticeship In Sporting Excellence' at college. This was spread out over three years and by the second year the club would either take Marc on as 3rd year apprentice, or release him.

Due to Marc's great goal scoring record (which led to him being named on the first-team bench at Turf Moor), Burnley decided to keep him on for a third year. As a 3rd year apprentice, he scored 15 goals for the club's reserve and youth teams. This led to him being sent out on loan to Kidderminster Harriers, a Conference National team, for real footballing experience during the 2005-06 campaign.

In his one month at Aggborough, Marc scored just one goal in 10 appearances in all competitions, but he'll always be remembered for a bit of 'showboating' when he flicked the ball over a Dagenham defenders head with the back of his heel, ran past him, collected the ball and crossed it for Iyseden Christie to score. The move was featured on Sky’s ‘Soccer AM’ programme on the ‘showboating’ section as showboat of the week.

During the course of the season, Marc learned that he would not get a professional contract at Burnley, and would be released at the end of the season without making a first-team appearance at Turf Moor. This was partly because both Chris McCann and Kyle Lafferty had both already received first-team contracts and they were only 2nd year apprentices.

Having just been released from Burnley, Marc started looking for a new club, and was eventually offered a place at League Two side Bury. At the time of Marc's arrival at Gigg Lane, the threat of relegation loomed over the club. On top of this, the club had lost several good players to Preston North End (including David Nugent and Simon Whaley). As a result, Bury's season had slumped and they were entangled in a relegation battle. Pugh ended up playing six games in the 2005-06 season for the club (including 3 as a sub) and scored his first goal in a 1-1 draw against Lincoln City.

As a result of his good performances (and helped by the fact that Bury had survived relegation), Bury manager Chris Casper offered him a one-year deal at Gigg Lane; his first professional contract.

Marc was very much a first team player in the 2006-07 season, playing particularly well in the first half of the season and was offered an extended contract by Bury boss Chris Casper.

Incidentally, this extension was turned down by Marc as he "wanted to keep his options open". He was offered contracts throughout the season but still took none of them, Casper blaming Marc’s agent for this.

With many clubs chasing his services, Marc eventually signed for Shrewsbury Town on in late May 2007 after 41 League appearances and 4 goals for Bury.

It was also revealed that Shrewsbury manager Gary Peters had already tried to sign Marc earlier in the season as part of a swap deal when striker Glynn Hurst moved to Bury.

Marc was in relatively good form during his first season with the Shrews, where he would more often get the better of opposing players. His form seemed to improve when Paul Simpson came in as the new manager, and Marc bagged a further 3 goals in his new "second striker” position.

It was also reumoured that The Welsh Football Association were looking into Marc’s eligibility as they believe he may have a Welsh family background.

Out of the Shrewsbury Town side during the 2008-09 campaign, Marc joined Luton Town on a month’s loan – with an option to extend the loan until the end of the year – having made 37 League appearances, scoring 4 goals for the Shrews prior to his arrival at Kenilworth Road.
Story date: Friday, September 12, 2008

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Story date: Tuesday, September 9, 2008

HAPLESS HATTERS LOSE AT MACCLESFIELD TOWN

Up-for-it Macclesfield Town showed far too much passion, energy and urgency as they did for Kevin Nicholls-less Luton Town.

The poor Hatters lacked ideas and inclination throughout and failed to take the few chances that presented themselves as their good away form dipped in disappointing fashion.

And Luton ended up paying a heavy price for some lackadaisical defending from George Pilkington and Dean Brill early in the first-half as Simon Yeo lobbed home the game's opening goal, while James Jennings made sure of victory with a fine strike midway through the second-half.

Substitute Ryan Charles curled home an injury-time free-kick, but his late strike could not hide Luton's horrible performance.

Luton were forced into one change from the team that triumphed 1-0 at Exeter City on Saturday. Skipper Kevin Nicholls was ruled out through injury and Kevin Watson took over the captain's armband and his role in the centre of midfield.

One notable onlooker on the day was Blackburn Rovers manager Paul Ince who came into the Moss Rose Ground eight minutes in.

Gareth Evans almost undid the Hatters in the first minute when he got the better of Sol Davis down the right, but Brill did well to save with his feet.

Chris Martin showed some good strength on 10 minutes to give Lewis Emanuel space on the left, but his fierce deflected cross was well held by Jonathon Brain.

However, the hosts took the lead on 12 minutes when Luton's defence went to sleep. Brain's long clearance found Yeo and, having got in front of Pilkington, the striker looked up and lobbed the ball over the stranded Brill.

Yeo produced another instinctive effort on 17 minutes, but Brill just managed to beat his shot on the turn behind. And, from the resulting corner, Matthew Flynn headed just wide with the goal at his mercy.

Luton mustered their first real effort when Brill’s clever clearance sent Martin away, but having gotten the better of his marker, he could only roll his shot straight at Brain.

Danny Thomas and Lee Bell then rained in shots on the Luton goal as the visitors struggled to impose themselves on the game.

And Luton almost got themselves back into it on 29 minutes when Watson picked out Martin with a clever through ball, but the offside striker blazed his effort over.

Lewis Emanuel then spurned a decent opportunity to haul Luton level on 32 minutes. Flynn's clearance ran into Emanuel's path on the edge of the box, but he could only blaze over when well placed.

And Sol Davis almost laid a goal on a plate for Yeo on 39 minutes. His awful clearance fell right to the feet of Yeo eight-yards out, but he inexplicably dragged his shot wide.

Sam Parkin’s clever touch sent Rossi Jarvis clear with two minutes of the half left but, despite beating Brain to the ball, he could only turn his effort straight into the oncoming keeper's legs.

The hosts started the second-half better too, despite the introduction of Charles for the lethargic Davis. On 47 minutes, Thomas was allowed to cut in from the right before crashing a shot at Brill, while Pilkington did well to block Lee Bell's follow-up.

And the Silkmen landed what looked like a killer blow on the hour when an impromptu short corner routine found its way to Jennings who lashed his shot home through a crowded box and past the despairing dive of Brill.

Parkin finally found some space on 67 minutes, but could only scoop his effort too close to Brain.

And Macclesfield were only denied a third goal on 70 minutes by the linesman's flag, after Yeo's fine flick was ruled out for offside.

Without the injured Nicholls in the side, Luton were inclined to stroll all too often and Macclesfield took full advantage with their lively approach.

Hatters substitute Tristan Plummer finally injected some flair into Luton when he jinked into the box with eight minutes to go, but Brain just managed to push his shot away.

Ryan Charles curled home an injury-time free-kick, but the referee promptly blew for full time from the re-start as the Hatters limped to defeat.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Sunday, September 7, 2008

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Story date: Monday, September 1, 2008

HAPPY HATTERS CLAIM VITAL WIN AT EXETER CITY

Super Sam Parkin swooped with a splendid second-half header to seal three more invaluable points for Luton Town as they claimed their second win on the road.

After a dull and scrappy first-half, Kevin Nicholls and Parkin produced one moment of magic as the Hatters claimed victory in glorious conditions St James' Park.

Luton boss Mick Harford reverted to a more tried and trusted line-up after Tuesday night's 1-5 Carling Cup defeat at Reading. The only real change to Harford's preferred line-up was the introduction of Keith Keane into the starting XI in preference to Asa Hall.

The game got off to a scrappy start with neither side able to impose themselves on the game as the crowd lapped up the glorious sunshine.

Exeter enjoyed the majority of the early possession, but failed to really create anything as Luton's defence were forced to make a number of last ditch tackles.

The game finally burst into life on 25 minutes when Claude Gnakpa hit the woodwork. Keane's throw found Chris Martin in acres of space on the edge of the area and, although he fluffed the opportunity, the ball ran to Gnakpa, whose low shot rebounded off the post and out.

And Gnakpa went close again seconds later when he burst into the box and thrashed a shot just wide.

The Grecians though almost opened up Luton's defence on 34 minutes when Rob Edwards floated a beautiful ball over the top but Marcus Stewart was unable to control it as he ran clean through.

And four minutes later Ryan Harley should have given the hosts the lead. Adam Stansfield's clever run was too good George Pilkington and his low cross picked out Harley, who scooped his shot over from the edge of the area when well placed.

After an abysmal first-half, it took the Hatters just two second-half minutes to take the lead. Gnakpa was fouled on the edge of the area and Nicholls picked out Parkin with a beautiful cross, and the big man made no mistake, heading powerfully into the right-hand top corner.

And Luton went close again four minutes later. Parkin and Rossi Jarvis combined well on the edge of Exeter's box to set Lewis Emanuel up, but Paul Jones was just able to beat away his venomous effort.

And Luton should probably have been given a penalty on 57 minutes when Danny Seaborne upended the weaving Martin in the box, but the referee only gave a corner.

Exeter went close again on the hour as the game began to hot up. Dean Brill came for a ball into the box he was never going to get but George Pilkington got their just in time to clear Richard Logan's header.

Luton went close again three minutes later when a free-kick caused all kinds of problems in the Grecians' box, but neither Parkin or Martin could get a proper shot away.

Matt Taylor should have equalised for Exeter on 64 minutes when Rob Edwards cross picked him out in the box, but his point blank header was straight at Brill.

A lovely through ball from Gnakpa put Martin away on 72 minutes and his dangerous cross was just cleared behind with Parkin lurking.

The game was beginning to open up and, after Exeter had briefly threatened, Martin sent a 25-yard effort fizzing just wide of the right-hand upright.

And Marcus Stewart came within inches of levelling on 80 minutes. Brill failed to come for a long ball forward and Stewart was allowed to turn on the edge of the box, but dragged his shot across the face of goal and wide.

With just two minutes left Parkin had a golden opportunity to seal victory when he was given time and space outside the edge of the area, but he curled his shot just inches wide.

Exeter pummelled Luton's goal in the closing seconds and only a brilliant headed clearance off the line by Keane denied Harley in injury-time as Luton Town clung on for victory.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Sunday, August 31, 2008

LUTON WINGER MORGAN MAKES LEYTON ORIENT LOAN SWITCH

Luton Town winger Dean Morgan has joined League One side Leyton Orient on a loan deal until January.

The Hatters midfielder has been deemed surplus to requirements by manager Mick Harford and has subsequently signed the deal to go to Brisbane Road on loan until the New Year.

Leyton Orient manager Martin Ling said, “I’m very pleased to have Morgan on board. He is a player who comes here with a good reputation – he went out on loan to Southend and Crewe last season and did very well at those clubs.

“The reason he hasn’t been playing for Luton this year is all to do with finances and nothing to do with ability.

“He’s here for five months and if he produces what we know he’s capable of we hope to offer him something more permanent.”

A pacy and energetic striker, Morgan joined Luton Town on a two-year deal from Reading on a free transfer after being informed that he was surplus to requirements at the Madejski Stadium following Reading’s £1 million signing of Bristol City’s Leroy Lita.

He began his career with Colchester United, progressing through the youth academy at Layer Road and making his senior debut during the 2000-01 season as a substitute at Northampton Town after some impressive performances for the U’s youth team. He went on to make a further three substitute appearances prior to the end of the season.

The 2001-02 campaign saw Morgan continue to establish himself as a first-team squad member with Colchester United and he made 30 League appearances for the U’s, an incredible 29 of those coming as a substitute! Although he failed to find the net at senior level during the campaign, he caught the eye with his pace and enthusiasm and he would go on to become a big favourite at Layer Road the following season.

Scoring his first goal at senior level to defeat promotion hopefuls Wigan Athletic, Morgan then bagged another five goals during the season – including a brace in a win at Notts County and the winner as Colchester United claimed a victory over the Hatters at Kenilworth Road.

However, after a total of 6 goals in 71 League appearances for Colchester United, he decided that he would seek a new club at the end of the season and, after a trial spell with the Hatters, he joined Reading on a free transfer after a successful trial spell with the Royals.

Unfortunately for Morgan, he never fully established himself as a first-team regular at the Madejski Stadium and during his first campaign with the Royals, the 2003-04 season, he made just 15 first-team appearances, scoring one goal – a last-minute winner at Cardiff City after coming on as a 67th minute substitute.

He netted another two goals the following season – once again against Cardiff City and a consolation in a 1-4 drubbing at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

However, following the arrival of Leroy Lita at the Madejski Stadium for a then Reading club record fee of £1 million, Royals boss Steve Coppell told Morgan he was surplus to requirements. A player highly-rated by then Hatters manager Mike Newell, he penned a two-year deal with Luton Town after a total of 3 goals in 31 League matches for Reading.

Morgan’s first season with Luton Town was quite a strange one – although he showed moments of brilliance and scored the “Goal of the Season”, he also sometimes flattered to deceive and arguably had times when he didn’t seem interested and looked to have an attitude problem.

Perhaps just one of those players who looks uninterested when actually he isn’t, Morgan began the season in the side, playing on the left-wing, and he made himself an immediate favourite with the Hatters fans when scoring a wonderful solo goal in injury-time to beat former Premiership side Southampton 3-2 at Kenilworth Road. Cutting in the from left and onto his right-foot, Morgan shimmied and turned two Saints defenders before firing the ball into the top corner and past the despairing dive of Finnish international goalkeeper Antti Niemi. The goal earned him the award of “Goal of the Season” at the end of the campaign.

Just two games later and Morgan was back on the score sheet when he fired home an unstoppable drive in a 1-2 loss at Stoke City when referee Andy D’Urso sent off Hatters striker Steve Howard for an alleged spitting incident.

Having made an excellent start to his Luton Town career, Morgan was a regular in the side, operating on the left-wing in the absence of the injured Sol Davis, which meant Paul Underwood operated behind him at left-back. Scoring twice in as many matches at the beginning of October, in a 1-3 loss at Crewe Alexandra, and in a 2-1 win at Cardiff City, where he scored another unstoppable left-footed drive, Morgan looked a classy and pacy winger. However, many Hatters fans knew there had to be a reason why he wasn’t already playing at Premiership level.

They were soon to find out as Morgan endured frustrating games where he just didn’t seem to get going and for Luton fans, it was extremely annoying to see a player who clearly had talent not affect games when perhaps he should.

Relegated to the bench following the return to fitness of Sol Davis, Morgan scored in a 4-1 home win over Crewe Alexandra in late November 2005 and he was to score once more before the end of the season – against his former club Reading. As if the script had already been written, he was given a starting place against the Championship leaders on a cold February night in front of the Sky television cameras. With Reading set to break a League record for matches undefeated, Morgan had other ideas as he cut in from the left-hand side and fired low, right-footed into the bottom corner and past Marcus Hahnemann at the Kenilworth Road end.

Making 36 League appearances during the season (11 as a substitute) Morgan undoubtedly had talent and if he could channel it in the right way he could well have been an excellent player at Championship level.

Morgan endured a frustrating and rather disappointing 2006-07 season in a campaign that was also very poor for Luton Town as a Club as the Hatters were relegated from the Championship.

Always a regular member of the squad, Morgan usually operated on the left-wing when he appeared and he was, as he had been the previous season, in and out of the side due to his inconsistency. He scored his first goal of the season in the second match of the campaign when he came off the bench to give Luton a 2-0 lead at Norwich City – only for the Hatters to throw it away and lose 2-3!

A further goal in the League Cup at Brentford was added to with strikes against Sunderland (1-2), Coventry City (3-1) and Leicester City (1-1). With five goals to his name for the season, Morgan could have added to the tally but he missed a last-minute penalty in a crucial relegation battle at Leeds United in mid-March 2007.

Signed by Mike Newell, he still featured under new boss Kevin Blackwell when Newell had been sacked as Luton Town manager, but he was unable to help the Hatters avoid relegation from the Championship.

Morgan had a poor and inconsistent 2007-08 season for Luton Town, a campaign that resulted in the Hatters finishing bottom of League One and suffering a second consecutive relegation.

A campaign beset with problems both on and off the field, which saw the Hatters go into administration in November 2007 and automatically deducted 10 League points as a result, Morgan did little to endear himself to Luton fans with some lacklustre performances.

A bit-part player for most of the season, Morgan was on the fringes of manager Kevin Blackwell's side for the early part of the season, but, unable to force his way into the first-team on a regular basis, he was loaned to League One rivals Southend United in November 2007. He made 11 appearances in all competitions for the Shrimpers, scoring 3 goals - all of them coming in the FA Cup - as he netted in victories over Oxford United and Dagenham & Redbridge.

Returning to Kenilworth Road in mid-January 2008 following the departure of Kevin Blackwell, and the appointment of Luton legend Mick Harford, Morgan made several fleeting appearances as the Hatters were doomed to relegation to League Two.

Reportedly one of the highest paid players at Kenilworth Road, Morgan was loaned by Harford to relegation rivals Crewe Alexandra in early March 2008, where he made 9 League appearances, scoring 1 goal for the Railwaymen in a 3-0 win at Gillingham.

A player with undoubted ability, the Hatters fans continue to raise question marks over Morgan's attitude and he now appears to be out of manager Mick Harford's plans.
Story date: Thursday, August 28, 2008

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Story date: Wednesday, August 27, 2008

FIVE-STAR READING THUMP LUTON IN CARLING CUP

Luton Town bowed out of the Carling Cup at the Second Round stage after Championship opponents Reading proved too tough an opposition at the Madejski Stadium.

Despite a typically hard working and tireless performance, the Hatters were second best all the way through and were taken apart by the higher Division outfit.

On-loan Leicester City goalkeeper Conrad Logan was given his debut, in what was one of four changes from the weekend. Ex-Royals midfielder Kevin Watson, defender Keith Keane and exciting young winger Tristan Plummer were also handed their first starts of the campaign.

After already disposing of a Championship side in the last round, the Hatters certainly had nothing to fear, but were on the back foot right from the first whistle.

Reading had a glorious chance to open the scoring in just the fifth minute. James Henry split the Luton defence in half with a delightful through ball into the feet Shane Long, who had shaken off his marker and beaten the offside trap. But, after skipping around a last-ditch challenge, the Irish forward fired his shot over the crossbar.

Despite the fact it was a makeshift side, Steve Coppell's Reading were playing some delightful football early on and, it was their first corner of the evening that led to the opening goal on 11 minutes.

Stephen Hunt's in swinging corner from the right was met by Noel Hunt, who headed the ball beyond Logan and into the net.

Three minutes later, Reading were on the Hunt again as they doubled their lead. This time it was goal scorer Noel, who slid a perfect ball into the box from the right, where his namesake Stephen was waiting unmarked inside the six-yard box to prod the easy chance home beyond a defenceless Logan.

Shortly after going two behind, Luton then came mighty close to getting themselves back into the contest, when Royals' keeper Adam Federici had to palm striker Sam Parkin's speculative effort behind for a corner.

As the half wore on, Long twice went close to adding to his side's tally. First, he was agonisingly close to getting on the end of Henry's free-kick from the left, before then seeing his low close range shot in stoppage-time thwarted by Logan's instinctive block.

At the other end, Chris Martin's powerful pile driver in first-half stoppage-time forced a decent save out of Federici in the Reading goal.

Manager Mick Harford threw on Rossi Jarvis in place of the below-par Sol Davis at half-time, but the change proved to no avail as a further two Reading goals, in the space of just 60 seconds, early in the second-half, finished the contest.

On 55 minutes, Henry provided the corner from the left that resulted in centre-half Alex Pearce heading in to make it 3-0.

The home crowd had barely had time to regain their breath as, from the re-start, Reading went straight back on the counter attack. Noel Hunt put in a cross from the right flank into the path of Jem Karacan and, with the Hatters defence all at sea, he was left with the easy task of finishing from close range.

Henry made it 5-0 shortly afterwards and, despite being on the wrong end of a clout, Luton's players still refused to lay down and die, fighting for the cause right to the death.

They grabbed the consolation goal that their hard work deserved on 80 minutes when substitute Ryan Charles hooked the ball over the line from just inside the six-yard box, much to the delight of the travelling hoards of Luton fans behind the goal, who were still in full voice, despite the disappointing score line.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Tuesday, August 26, 2008

MARTIN STRIKE NOT ENOUGH AS LUTON DRAW

Not even a first goal in Luton Town colours for Chris Martin could earn the Hatters victory at Kenilworth Road against Notts County.

The Hatters had most of the best chances and captain Kevin Nicholls even hit the bar for Luton, but an inexplicable handball in his own box by Sam Parkin ultimately proved costly as the hosts had to settle for a point.

Luton made one change to the side that claimed a great 1-0 victory at Gillingham last weekend, fit-again Lewis Emanuel coming in for Keith Keane.

The Hatters, playing in their new home strip for the first time, broke well on four minutes but Chris Martin made a hash of Claude Gnakpa's fine slid-rule pass and ran the ball out as he drove for the byline.

Gradually the Hatters started to come into the game and Asa Hall, who's never afraid of having a shot, was allowed to turn on a throw-in on the edge of the area but his effort was straight at Kevin Pilkington.

Sam Parkin and Rossi Jarvis then combined to create space for Martin on 10 minutes, but the young loan star flashed his shot well over.

However, the visitors looked to have plenty of pace on the break and Myles Weston got the better of Michael Spillane on 15 minutes, but fired over under pressure from the youngster.

With the game having got off to a scrappy start, Kevin Nicholls was a coat of paint away from giving the Hatters the lead on 20 minutes.

Parkin headed a cross back across goal and Pilkington was unable to gather under Martin's challenge. Jarvis then laid the ball off to Nicholls on the edge of the area, but the Luton midfielder was desperately unlucky to see his curling chip over the stranded Pilkington come back off the bar.

Hall once again found space on 29 minutes, but his effort on the stretch was too close to Pilkington and the County keeper saved, while Jarvis also saw a deflected easily saved seconds later.

With eight minutes of the half left, Martin capitalised on some poor Magpies passing to break and set up Parkin, but the big striker fizzed an effort just wide.

Martin was making a real nuisance of himself up front and did well to create an opening on 41 minutes, but his effort was deflected just past the far post.

And the Hatters should have taken the lead in the last seconds of the half as they put together the best move of the game. Some fleet footwork from Martin put Parkin away and his ball found Emanuel in space. However, he could only scoop his effort over the bar.

Luton, though, got the second-half off to a superb start when Martin scored his first goal for the club on 49 minutes. Jarvis and Hall combined well to set the Norwich City youngster up and he made no mistake with a fierce drive across goal into the bottom right-hand corner.

Weston threatened the Hatters backline again, but Brill managed to stick out a leg to turn it behind. However, Parkin handled the resulting corner at the far post and the referee point to the spot. Jamie Forrester kept his cool from the spot and rolled the equaliser into bottom left-hand corner on 53 minutes.

Martin again caused problems for the visitors on 64 minutes, his narrow cross glancing off the post before being put behind by the keeper.

Weston almost undid Luton again on 71 minutes when he got the better of Spillane on the edge of Luton's box, but fired well over with just Brill to beat.

Luton went close to regaining the lead on 79 minutes when substitute Kevin Watson flaoted in a lovely diagonal ball and Parkin rose above Pilkington, only to see his header drop on to the roof of the net.

With five minutes left Luton went close again. Nicholls whipped in a beautiful cross to the far post but Pilkington did well to gather Parkin's header destined for the bottom left-hand corner.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, August 23, 2008

HATTERS FAN RELEASES LUTON TOWN MUSIC SINGLE!

Luton Town supporter and singer Jane Ledsom has released a music single titled, '30 Down To Zero (Here Come The Hatters)', which is about Luton Town's current predicament, as they aim to recover the 30 League points docked by the FA and Football League and retain their League status.

The single has been recorded with The Shouty Boys, a bunch of terrace regulars at Kenilworth Road.

Jane, 32, is a regular at Kenilworth Road and was set to release her first single, but, along with her record company Halo Records, has decided to put that on hold in order to help the Hatters. In addition, she has kindly agreed to donate all proceeds from the sale of the single to Luton Town Football Club.

The song will be played at every Hatters home match this season, starting with today's clash against Notts County, until Luton Town are safe from reegation.

The song will be available to purchase from the club shop, ticket office and other outlets from September 13th, and will be available for digital download on iTunes from October 6th.

The single is the first "Hatters Hit" released since Lutonfc.com teamed up with Steve Luckett, AKA, "Binky" to release "Luton Are Back" in 2001, a single to celebrate the Hatters' first promotion season for 20 years.

The song follows other popular Hatters hits from years gone by, such as the 1970s tracks, "Hatters, Hatters" and "We Are Luton Town You Know" by The Barron Knights, and 1982s hit, "We're Luton Town".

You can hear Jane Ledsom's single, '30 Down To Zero (Here Come The Hatters)' on her MySpace page, by clicking HERE.
Story date: Saturday, August 23, 2008

HARFORD REJECTS RUMOURS OF FOJUT RETURN

Luton Town manager Mick Harford has denied rumours that he is looking to sign Polish former Hatters defender Jaroslaw Fojut from Premiership Bolton Wanderers on loan.

Fojut became a huge fans’ favourite after making 16 appearances on loan at Kenilworth Road last season.

However, Harford - who is wrestling with a 27-point deficit in League Two - insists he has yet to approach Bolton regarding Fojut.
"We haven't made contact with Bolton for Fojut," Harford told skysports.com.

Polish Youth International central defender Fojut joined Luton Town on a six-month loan deal from Premiership side Bolton Wanderers on transfer deadline day in August 2007.

Fojut, nicknamed “The Butcher” due to his no-nonsense style of play, joined Bolton in 2004 after spells at youth level in his native Poland with Legionovia Legionowo, Darzbór Szczecinek and MSP Szamotuly.

He was spotted playing for Bolton’s reserves by Hatters boss Kevin Blackwell’s scouting team and has been snapped-up on loan until January 2008. He was signed to provide cover for central defenders Chris Coyne and Chris Perry.

Fojut has played at senior level at The Reebok Stadium, making his debut as a substitute against Luton’s arch rivals Watford in a 3-0 FA Cup Third Round win in January 2006. A month later he made his Premiership debut, coming on as a substitute in a 1-1 draw with Portsmouth at Fratton Park.

Two further outings at senior level followed the following campaign – 2006-07 – in League Cup clashes at Walsall and Charlton Athletic.
Fojut had a tremendous loan spell with Luton Town that lasted for four-months until January 2008.

During his time at Kenilworth Road, Fojut endeared himself to the Hatters faithful with his colossal defensive displays and determination and he became a huge fans’ favourite.

He made 23 appearances in all competitions for the Hatters (16 in the League), scoring 3 goals, and his performances belied his years. Such a consistent performer and oozing class, Fojut produced many memorable performances, including man-of-the-match displays against Premiership side Everton in the Carling Cup and in victories over Nottingham Forest in the League and FA Cup.

He scored three goals during the campaign, the first coming in a 2-0 FA Cup win at Brentford, and the other two in League clashes at Oldham Athletic (1-1) and Port Vale (2-1).

However, with his loan spell coming to an end at the beginning of January 2008, Luton Town were in administration and the Football League refused the then Hatters manager Kevin Blackwell permission to extend Fojut’s loan spell, much to the disgust of Blackwell, who labelled the decision “Despicable.”

The decision seemed even more unfair given that Fojut was enjoying his time at Kenilworth Road and didn’t want to leave, feeling that playing with Luton Town at this stage of his career was the right thing for his football development.

Unfortunately, the Football League’s decision stood and Fojut made his final appearance for Luton Town in a 1-0 home win over Yeovil Town on New Years Day, where he received a standing ovation both before and after the match, which was a testament to his performances for the Hatters. At the end of the game, Fojut threw his shirt into the crowd and saluted the Luton Town fans.

Rarely in football, and certainly not at Luton Town, can a loan player have made such an impact and endeared himself to the fans so much and Fojut’s loss was a huge blow to the Hatters. According to manager Kevin Blackwell, he left Kenilworth Road, “A far better player than when he arrived” and it was a statement that nobody could argue with.

A player of massive potential, Fojut returned to parent club Bolton Wanderers with the thanks and best wishes of everyone at Luton Town Football Club.

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Dean Brill could be one player on his way out of Kenilworth Road.

The Hatters signed Leicester City shot-stopper Conrad Logan on loan earlier on Thursday, which has stoked conjecture surrounding Brill's future.

"We've had lots of enquiries for our players and Dean Brill is one of those," added Harford.

"It's coming up to that time in the window when clubs are looking to strengthen their squads and Dean Brill is, in my opinion, a very good goalkeeper who is going to go on and be a top-class keeper.

"So, I'm not surprised that there's been interest in Dean Brill.

"If the offer's right and it is right for Dean and the Football Club then we would consider it."
Story date: Thursday, August 21, 2008

DEFENDER JACKSON LEAVES LUTON TOWN

Luton Town defender Richard Jackson has left the club after agreeing to terminate his contract by mutual consent.

Jackson follows fellow Hatters Steve Robinson, Marlon Beresford and Zac Barrett in agreeing to terminate his contract as Hatters boss Mick Harford and the LTFC2020 consortium continue their squad regeneration.

A versatile defender who can operate anywhere across the back four, Jackson joined Luton Town on a two-year deal from Derby County just days before the start of the 2007-08 season.

Jackson was released from his contract at Pride Park by mutual consent and the Hatters moved quickly to sign the 5 ft 8” defender – who can play at either right-back, left-back or in the centre of defence – on a two-year deal.

He became the then Luton manager Kevin Blackwell’s eighth summer signing following the arrivals of David Edwards, Alan Goodall, Darren Currie, Paul Furlong, Chris Perry, Paul Peschisolido and Don Hutchison.

Jackson began his career with Scarborough, and was the only locally-born player in the Scarborough squad at the time and he had made excellent progress with the reserves at the McCain Stadium – so much so, in fact, that he was given his Football League debut at right-back in a home fixture against Doncaster Rovers in November 1997 – a match that Scarborough won 4-0. He followed up this performance with another outing in the penultimate game of the campaign against Shrewsbury Town. He was rewarded for his outstanding progress with the Young Player of the Year award.

Appearing regularly for the Seadogs the following season, the 1998-99 campaign, Jackson’s form was attracting the interest of the bigger clubs and it came as no surprise when in March 1999, and after just two years as a professional with Scarborough, Jackson was transferred to Derby County for £30,000.

He made two appearances in the Premiership for the Rams during his first season at Pride Park, playing against Chelsea and Newcastle United. The following season, the 2000-01 campaign, Jackson received his first start in the Premiership at Everton in August 2000. His opportunities were limited after that as the then Rams manager Jim Smith preferred to opt for more experienced players, and a broken cheekbone sustained in a training ground accident in early January 2001 then ruled Jackson out of action for the reserves until early April. He returned to the senior squad for the final game of the season against Ipswich Town when he came on as a half-time substitute in a 1-1 draw.

Jackson appeared slightly more regularly at senior level the following season, 2001-02, making seven appearances in the Premiership – including matches against Arsenal and Liverpool – six of which ended in defeats – as Derby County lost their Premiership status.

Jackson broke into the team on a more regular basis in 2003, making 21 appearances and earning the Rams’ Young Player of the Year award in the process. Usually operating at right-back, Jackson also filled-in at centre-back and at left-back when required and he did a fine job.

However, a groin injury restricted Jackson to just 19 League appearances during the 2004-05 season and he made 26 appearances in 2005-06 as the Rams came dangerously close to relegation from the Championship.

In August 2005, Jackson made his 100th appearance for Derby County in a match against Watford – a match that Jackson was dismissed in!
Jackson was rewarded with a new two-year contract in January 2006, but played only a bit-part role for incoming Derby boss Billy Davies during the 2006-07 campaign, appearing 5 times in the Championship as the Rams won the play-offs and earned a dream promotion to the Premiership.

No longer featuring in manager Davies’ plans, Jackson – the longest-serving Derby County player at the time – saw his contract terminated by mutual consent in early August 2007 after 128 League appearances for the Rams in an eight-year spell, and he signed for Luton Town the following day on a two-year deal.

On signing for the Hatters, Jackson said, “I wasn’t really getting a game at Derby and I need to be getting matches under my belt at this stage of my career.

“I wanted to come to a team who will be challenging for promotion and I think, with all the signings that have been at Luton Town, that will happen here.

“As soon as I spoke to the manager, Kevin Blackwell, I knew I wanted to sign. His ambitions for the club and where he wants to go made my mind up very quickly.”

Jackson had a rather disappointing season for Luton Town during the 2007-08 campaign - a season that was arguably the worst in the Hatters' history.

A regular under manager Kevin Blackwell at right-back, Jackson came under strong criticism from Luton fans for his performances during the season. This criticism was aimed at Jackson, not for his lack of effort, but for his apparent lack of ability, especially his passing, which at times was poor to say the least.

However, Jackson did work hard during the season and tried whenever possible to work up the right-channel and to get forward to deliver crosses into the box.

Appearing regularly under Blackwell, Jackson's cause was not helped by playing in a defence that ended the season without a recognised central defender following the departures of Jaroslaw Fojut and Chris Coyne after the Hatters went into administration in November 2007.

He did, however, initially remain a regular at right-back under new Luton manager Mick Harford, who replaced Blackwell as boss in January 2008. With Luton in administration and docked 10 League points as a result, the Hatters plummeted to the bottom of League One and the season, which had promised so much at the beginning, quickly became one of the worst in living memory as Luton ended the scampaign by finishing bottom of League One and suffering their second successive relegation.

Replaced at right-back by youngster Edward Asafu-Adjaye as the season reached it's climax, Jackson was one of six players transfer-listed and made available on a free transfer at the end of the season by Hatters boss Mick Harford.

He appeared regularly in the pre-season fixtures prior to the start of the 2008-09 campaign, and was even on the bench for a League victory at Gillingham in August 2008. However, deemed surplus to requirements by Harford, Jackson agreed to terminate his contract by mutual consent on August 21st 2008 and he left the Hatters after 37 appearances in all competitions for Luton Town.
Story date: Thursday, August 21, 2008

LUTON TOWN SIGN LEICESTER CITY KEEPER LOGAN ON LOAN

Luton Town have signed Leicester City goalkeeper Conrad Logan on loan until January from Championship side Leicester City, subject to Football League clearance.

The 22-year-old shot-stopper will compete with Hatters number one Dean Brill for the goalkeeper’s jersey and becomes the fifth on-loan player at Kenilworth Road.

Logan is the Foxes third-choice goalkeeper behind Paul Henderson and their on-loan Liverpool stopper David Martin.

Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson said, “Conrad wants to play first-team football and, with two other good goalkeepers here, I felt it would be best for both parties if he went out on loan and gained further experience.”

Logan signed a professional contract at the Walkers Stadium in 2003 after the Foxes brought him over from his native Ireland. A scout had spotted him in 2000 playing for Swilly Rovers.

He made his League debut during the 2005-06 season during two loan spells with Boston United, where he made 13 appearances for the Pilgrims, before returning to his parent club, Leicester City.
He started the 2006–07 season in goal for Leicester City, making over ten appearances. He made his senior debut in a 2–0 Carling Cup win over Macclesfield Town on on August 22nd 2006.

However, Logan was dropped from the first-team squad after conceding four goals against Sheffield Wednesday on December 2nd 2006. He regained his place in April 2007 under caretaker manager Nigel Worthington, and helped Leicester avoided relegation from the Championship.

On August 6th 2007, the then Foxes manager Martin Allen made Logan and Max Gradel available for loan for the forthcoming season, the 2007-08 campaign, and on on August 9th 2007, Logan signed a season-long loan deal at League Two side Stockport County.

He became a regular for the Hatters and a fans’ favourite and played 38 games for Stockport County, helping the team to a Wembley play-off final on May 26th 2008, where they met and defeated northwest rivals Rochdale 3-2 to earn promotion to League One.

However, pushed down the pecking order at the Walkers Stadium by Australian goalkeeper Paul Henderson and on-loan stopper David Martin, he made the loan move to Kenilworth Road to compete for the number one spot with Dean Brill.
Story date: Thursday, August 21, 2008

BATTLING LUTON EARN WIN AT GILLINGHAM

Battling Luton Town lived a charmed life as they somehow clung on to secure an invaluable victory at Priestfield against Gillingham.

Luton were forced to dig deep, but survived some heavy second-half pressure from Gillingham to get their League campaign up-and-running.

Super Sam Parkin scored the decisive goal with an excellent third-minute header, but it was the Hatters' determined rearguard action that made victory possible.

Luton made only one change from their starting line-up that did so well to beat Championship side Plymouth Argyle in the first round of the Carling Cup on Tuesday night. With Lewis Emanuel ruled out through injury, Keith Keane started in the unusual role of right midfield, with Rossi Jarvis switching to the left flank.

And Luton got off to a blistering start, taking just three minutes to take the lead. Jarvis' through ball was deflected into the path of Chris Martin who chipped delightfully to the far post for Parkin to power his header home.

The visitors went close again three minutes later when a stretching Jarvis could only poke Keane's fine first-time cross wide at the far post.

Gillingham were looking dangerous on the break and Sol Davis entered the referee's notebook on nine minutes for an ungainly challenge on Tyrone Berry.

Some of the officiating in the first-half at times was quite questionable and Parkin was inexplicably shown a yellow card on 18 minutes after winning a seemingly fair challenge.

Sloppy defending from Luton almost allowed Gillingam to level on 22 minutes. Luton's back line were asleep to Mark McCammon's flick on, but Simeon Jackson could only fire over from the edge of the area.

Claude Gnakpa became the third Luton player of the day to be booked on 26 minutes, while Asa Hall flashed a long-range effort well wide on 36 minutes as the game lulled.

But the Gills should have equalised five minutes before the break. The lively Berry evaded Chris Martin and a lunging Davis on the left before bursting into the area and squaring for Jackson, but Dean Brill was alert to save with his legs.

And McCammon was inches away three minutes later when his clever flicked looped just wide with a stranded Brill well beaten.

The second half began with the Gills on the offensive and Davis had to be alert to clear McCammon's header of the line on 54 minutes.

Tackles were beginning to fly in from all angles and the game threatened to boil over.

Luton were having to defend raggedly at times and Jackson should have probably done better when he lashed over the bar on 61 minutes.

And the Hatters somehow survived the mother of all goalmouth scrambles on 71 minutes. Three times the hosts looked destined to score as they rained in shots from close range, but a combination of some fantastic saves from Brill, coupled with some desperate defending, remarkably kept the ball out.

And seconds later Chris Martin almost took advantage of a defensive mistake when he burst into the box and flashed a shot across the face of goal, but Alan Julian somehow got a telling touch to turn it behind.

With seconds left Hall almost sealed victory when his sizzling effort fizzed over the bar and, despite four minutes of injury-time being played, Luton clung on for a hard earned win.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, August 16, 2008

FORMER LUTON STRIKER THORPE BACK TRAINING WITH HATTERS

Former Luton Town striker Tony Thorpe, 34, is back training again with the Hatters with the view to earning a move back to Kenilworth Road some five years after he left under controversial circumstances.

Thorpe spent last season playing for Barton Rovers, but he has been training with Luton in a bid to gain fitness and for Hatters manager Mick Harford to assess the veteran front man.

On his return to training with Luton Town, Thorpe, who has scored 70 goals in 164 League appearances for the Hatters, said, "I've only just turned 34, I feel fit and sharp and still think I can score goals at this level. I spoke to Mick Harford, the Luton manager, who said he'd like to have a look at me in training and see how I shape up fitness-wise.

"I thought it was a long shot, but as the weeks have gone by, I've felt better and better.

"I think I owe Luton anyway from previous things that have happened in the past.

"If nothing happens, I don't think I'll be pursuing it again anywhere else. Luton is the club I feel comfortable at and, training with the likes of Kevin Nicholls again, I don't feel like I've been away. But nothing is guaranteed yet, I'll keep training hard and we'll go from there."

Thorpe had previously re-joined Luton Town, his first club, on a Bosman free transfer in June 2002 from Bristol City. A proven goal scorer at Second Division (League One) level, he came back to Kenilworth Road following Luton's promotion from Division Three (League Two), their first promotion season for 20 years.

A lively and energetic striker, with nimble footwork and a huge favourite with the Luton supporters who had always wanted him to return to Bedfordshire, he signed a two-year deal and became manager Joe Kinnear's first signing in preparation for the 2002-03 season. It was Thorpe's fourth spell at Kenilworth Road following a further two loan spells in addition to his initial stint with the club.

Thorpe began his career with Luton as an attacking midfielder, coming through the youth ranks at Kenilworth Road after being released as a junior by his hometown club Leicester City. He made his debut during the 1993-94 season as a young substitute in an FA Cup Fourth Round match at Premiership giants Newcastle United, with Luton struggling at the bottom of Division One (now called the Championship). Thrown on by then Luton boss David Pleat, he made a dramatic impact, scoring a 35-yard thunderbolt that flew into the top corner, his goal earning Luton a 1-1 draw and a replay - which they won 2-0. The Hatters eventually reached the FA Cup semi-final that season, losing 0-2 to Chelsea at Wembley. However, for Thorpe, it had seen him make a mark at first-team level, and he made a total of 14 League appearances during the season, netting his first League goal in a 3-0 home win over Oxford United on February 5th 1994.

The following season, the 1994-95 campaign, Thorpe continued to develop in Luton's reserve side, but also appeared 4 times at first-team level. However, it was the following season that he began to really establish himself as a first-team regular with Luton. With Pleat leaving Luton to become the Sheffield Wednesday manager, the Hatters appointed youth manager Terry Westley as the new first-team boss. Westley signed several players, paying a lot of money for a club of Luton's size to acquire them, and it looked very much as if Thorpe's opportunities at Luton would be limited. But, to his credit, Thorpe remained in the squad, and he netted his first goal of the season in a 1-0 win at Southend United three matches into the campaign. However, he was used fairly sparingly by Westley, but when Westley was sacked, Lennie Lawrence was appointed as manager and Thorpe became a regular in the side in the second half of the season. He scored 7 League goals during the season, 8 in all competitions to finish third in the club goal scoring charts, including 4 goals in April - the best being a 25-yard chip, after running on to a through pass against Barnsley. However, Thorpe's goals couldn't prevent Luton from being relegated to Division Two (League One), a massive disappointment for the Hatters supporters.

But, for Thorpe, the 1996-97 season proved a campaign to remember. He was moved into a striking role from his usual attacking midfield position by then manager Lennie Lawrence, and the move provided astonishing results! Thorpe ended the season with 32 goals, 31 of them coming in the League, and he claimed the Division Two Golden Boot award for that season. He scored almost every type of goal imaginable - powerful shots, delicate chips, tap ins, headers and penalties. A previous tendency towards slight nonchalance was thrown off as he improved almost match-by-match, registering three hat-tricks during the season and also assisting in creating goals for his colleagues. This tremendous form saw him elected to the PFA Second Division XI by his fellow professionals and he also won both the Luton Supporters and Players' Player of the Year awards. However, there was still disappointment for Thorpe because Luton failed to earn promotion back to Division One, as Crewe Alexandra defeated the Hatters 4-3 on aggregate in the play-off semi-finals.

Thorpe had another excellent season in 1997-98 when wearing the Luton shirt, as he netted 19 goals in all competitions, 15 of them coming in the League, including a hat-trick in a 3-0 home win over Blackpool. A huge favourite with the Luton supporters he was being tracked by several clubs, including Arsenal, and he scored twice against Fulham during the season, and he attracted the attention of Cottagers manager Ray Wilkins, who, to the huge disappointment of the Luton faithful, paid £800,000 to sign Thorpe at the end of February 1998. However, his move to Fulham turned sour as the Cottagers replaced Wilkins with Kevin Keegan and Thorpe fell out of favour. Signed to score goals, he spent the last eight League matches on the bench with only cameo appearances on the field. Although scoring twice in the five games he started after joining Fulham, a superb solo effort when coming on as a substitute against Carlisle United being one of them, he did not start again until the second leg of the play-off semi-finals when Paul Moody was suspended.

During the summer, after just 3 months with Fulham, he signed for Bristol City, then in Division One (the Championship), for £1 million. At the time Bristol City had already made their record £1.2 million signing of Ade Akinbiyi, and few supporters were expecting the news just a week later that the club had swooped for Thorpe too.

What seemed like a dream signing instead turned to nightmare, however. A combination of injuries and early season team selection didn't favour Thorpe in Division One, and unable to establish a starting role, his form suffered, and rumours persisted that he had not settled at all in Bristol, exiled from his Luton home.

New manager Benny Lennartsson, a Swede, decided to experiment with Thorpe in an attacking midfield role - where the striker had begun his career - and a promising run, including two goals from this position, offered signs of his abilities.

It didn't take long however, for concerns over his fitness and commitment to resurface, and Thorpe was soon relegated back to the substitutes bench, visibly frustrated as he watched less able forwards struggling up front.

Lennartsson then decided to loan Thorpe out in a bid to help him recover his form, and whilst the Robins slipped towards the drop, the striker instead spent the rest of the season at Reading, where he netted 1 goal in 6 appearances, and then he returned to Luton, where he ended the season with 4 goals from 8 matches, including a brace in a 2-1 win at Notts County. Still a huge favourite with the Luton supporters, who had never wanted to see him leave in the first place, Thorpe looked every bit the player he was when he left Kenilworth Road and the fans were screaming out for the club to re-sign him. The permanent transfer did not happen, however, and he returned to Ashton Gate.

Back with the Robins for the 1999-00 season, and in Division Two (League One) with several first choice strikers departing, Thorpe had the opportunity to stake a claim to be the club's number one forward under new boss Thorpe Pulis, and despite more unfavourable team selection, he appeared to have done so by bagging 4 goals to set the pace as top goal scorer.

Once again however, a handful of poor performances and more questions over his fitness saw Thorpe dropped back out of contention, and soon the controversial Pulis had transfer-listed the striker before sending him back to Luton on loan.

Thorpe made 4 appearances during the loan spell with the Hatters - his 3rd stint with the club - netting 1 goal, on his debut, in a 2-2 home draw with Notts County.

Despite lengthy talks with Thorpe over a permanent transfer back to Kenilworth Road, the Hatters could not raise the cash to meet Bristol City's valuation, and Burnley were the next side to discuss a switch.

But - to the delight of the Ashton Gate supporters - it all finally came good for Thorpe, rescued from last chance saloon after the unpopular Pulis walked out, and the caretaker team of coaches drafted Thorpe back into the side with devastating effect for the trip to Bournemouth.

Leroy Rosenior's pre-match words to Thorpe were "Goals, Goals, Goals" and Thorpe duly obliged, scoring twice in a 3-2 win.
A further 11 goals in his next 23 games confirmed that Thorpe had finally seized his City chance, and he went into the 2000-01 season with high confidence and under the guidance of ex-Luton player Danny Wilson, who had been appointed the new Bristol City manager.

And he produced another season of goal scoring exploits - netting 23 goals in all competitions, 19 of them in the League. Now established as a firm favourite with the Ashton Gate supporters, he was once again terrorising Second Division defences. Although he failed to match the form that he showed at the end of the previous campaign, he still scored consistently throughout the season and became the first player at Ashton Gate to top 20 League and Cup goals in a season for over a decade. He netted hat-tricks against Cambridge United and Bournemouth, but his late header to clinch a 3-2 win over local rivals Bristol Rovers was perhaps his most acclaimed strike of the season.

The 2001-02 season also saw Thorpe continuing to show his class - as he bagged an opening day hat-trick in a 3-0 win at Northampton. 19 goals in all competitions for the season, 17 of them in the League, proved that Thorpe certainly still has the eye for goal, and he left Ashton Gate as the Robins' top goal scorer for the past three seasons.

Back at Luton, Luton supporters greeted the move with sheer jubilation, and Thorpe also expressed his delight at sealing a return to Bedfordshire. He said, “It feels good to be back. Very nice. I’m looking forward to it. Once I heard that Joe and Mick wanted to make me an offer that was it.

“I feel like this is a fresh start for me. I’ve had four full years at Bristol and that’s a long time. I was top goal scorer three years running, but I’ve had my time there and now it’s time for me to move on. Some people will ask why I’m leaving a big club like Bristol City, but I have my own reasons. For one thing it will be a bit closer to my home in Leicester, which is important to me. Then you need fresh faces sometimes. It gives you a lift.”

“The fans were always brilliant to me here. And I’m looking forward to seeing them all again. I can’t wait for that first game. I just can’t wait.”

Thorpe had a reasonably good 2002-03 season that culminated in him netting 16 goals in all competitions for the Hatters.

He made a slow start to the campaign, making his ‘debut’ in a 2-3 home defeat to Peterborough United in the opening match of the season. He scored with his head in the next game, a 2-5 loss at Blackpool, and after two further appearances, in defeats at Plymouth Argyle (1-2) and at home to Barnsley (2-3), Thorpe was injured and it forced him to miss just under the following two months of the season (although he was an unused substitute on a couple of occasions) before returning to the side in an excellent 2-1 win at Oldham Athletic when he came on as a 9th minute substitute for the injured Dean Crowe and went on to bag the winner after 58 minutes.

After a further substitute appearance at Crewe Alexandra, Thorpe returned to the starting XI in a woeful 0-3 defeat at eventually relegated Northampton Town. However, after a 0-0 home draw with Port Vale, Thorpe returned to the score sheet when he bagged a header in a 4-3 win at neighbours Stevenage Borough in the LDV Vans Trophy Second Round.

Still a very popular player with the Luton supporters, Thorpe was now starting to show what he was capable of after a slow start to his fourth spell with the club. He found the back of the net once more in the next match, as Non-League minnows AFC Guiseley were beaten 4-0 at Kenilworth Road in the FA Cup First Round.

Three matches later, he was on the mark again in a 1-2 home defeat to Third Division Cambridge United in the LDV Vans Trophy Third Round. As Christmas and the New Year arrived, Thorpe began to blossom into the player that he was during his first spell with the club and he netted a fine opportunist goal in a superb 2-0 Boxing Day win over big-spending Cardiff City in front of a packed Kenilworth Road.

Two more goals arrived in mid-January in a 3-2 win at Oakwell against Barnsley when the Hatters somehow managed to claim the three points despite having had goalkeeper Carl Emberson sent off!
Two matches later, and Thorpe was banging in the goals again as he netted in consecutive matches in a 2-1 win at Port Vale and in a 1-3 home defeat to a fine passing Blackpool side, which took his tally of goals for the campaign to 10 in all competitions.
A further two matches later, and Thorpe began a rich period of goal scoring form as he netted 5 goals in just 4 matches to push Luton towards a play-off place. The first came in a 1-0 home win over archenemies Plymouth Argyle.

After a goal in a 1-2 defeat at Notts County, he then bagged a brace of fine solo goals, which demonstrated his silky skills and quick feet, although Luton lost 2-3 at Mansfield Town – a ground where the Hatters seldom seem to get any sort of result! He finished his purple patch with a goal in a 3-0 home victory over Huddersfield Town.

However, four matches later, Thorpe’s season was all but ended when he picked up an injury at home to Tranmere Rovers and it forced him to miss all but the last match of the season. It was arguably this injury to Thorpe that cost Luton their season, as when he was injured they seemed to lose any ‘spark’ in attack (bar Steve Howard) and it saw their play-off aspirations vanish.

He did make one more appearance if the season, in the final match at Swindon Town, as he scored the Hatters’ goal in a 1-2 defeat in a typical end of season game that meant nothing to either side.
Having scored 13 goals in 30 League matches during the season and 16 goals in total, Thorpe was still a huge favourite with the Luton fans. Always a popular player, he had his very own song, “Oh Tony Tony, Tony, Tony, Tony Thorpe” and it could be heard on many a match day.

Thorpe began the 2003-04 season in fine form for the Hatters as he bagged a brace in a 3-1 opening day victory over Rushden & Diamonds at Kenilworth Road – the win coming despite Luton’s terrible summer traumas which saw the club taken over and then put into administrative receivership and also saw manager Joe Kinnear sacked.

With Brian Talbot’s side leading at the interval, the Luton fans were left to reflect exactly how they were losing a match they had dominated for large periods. However, they were rewarded with an equaliser on 50 minutes when Courtney Pitt went on another jinxing run down the left, cut inside and fed a superb ball through to Thorpe, and he coolly side-footed the ball into the far corner first-time with his right foot.

And nine minutes later, Thorpe had given the Hatters the lead as a bizarre incident saw Luton go in front. Rushden & Diamonds’ goalkeeper Billy Turley put the ball out of play believing he had been impeded, but the referee signalled a corner rather than a free-kick and as the Diamonds keeper protested, Hatters striker Steve Howard floated in the corner allowing Thorpe to loop his header over Turley and into the roof of the net for 2-1.

He then netted in the following match, a 4-1 home win over League newcomers Yeovil Town in the Carling Cup as he dispossessed the visitors’ giant Portuguese defender Hugo Rodrigues and tucked the ball home.

However, after just one more appearance, in a 2-1 win at Stockport County, Thorpe left the club for the second time in his career. The Hatters’ Second Division rivals Queen’s Park Rangers offered £50,000 for his services, and, despite manager Mike Newell offering Thorpe a new contract, he decided to make the move to Loftus Road – much to the disgust of both Newell and the Luton supporters. Newell said the deal had been agreed without his or the club's knowledge after the player was approached by an agent on behalf of QPR. Newell said that every effort was made by the Luton Town management and by club administrator Barry Ward to keep the striker at Kenilworth Road. The move prompted Newell to launch a scathing attack on QPR, saying, “He's agreed a deal, or his agent's agreed a deal, whatever, and it should go through today.

"The fee as I understand it is £50,000, which is way below our valuation. There is something extra if QPR get promoted, but that's neither here nor there.

"We've been caught cold. It's been done totally out of our hands and the danger now is that it could snowball, which is the last thing we want.

"We've had no choice, it's been completely out of our control and the fact that the agent's got involved, the player knew what was going on well before any of us.

"The deal was done and agreed before we even knew about it and it's the agent who will be getting his cut. I wouldn't be surprised if he gets just as much, if not more than we do.

"When you get spineless, faceless agents involved it's game over and there's nothing you can do.

"We don't want to sell any of our players and if we really have to we would want somewhere near our valuation of him and we've got nowhere near our valuation of him.

"Does this club really need to sell its best players for £50,000? It's just not common sense."

Newell continued: "We're not happy with the way QPR have gone about this – particularly Ian Holloway.

"We're caught in the situation where our players have not had their full wages and after 14 days, if they so choose, they can walk away from this club.

"QPR knew that and the agent knew that and they've taken advantage of it.

"QPR have been in the same situation as us and in the summer Ian Holloway was talking about what a desperate situation it was, yet he has now gone behind our back to get the player.

"He can try and tell me as he did two days ago that it's the agent's and directors' fault, but if the directors are telling him who to bring in to that football club he won't be in a job for long.

"I would expect people to work to the same ethics as I do and I would expect him to pick up the phone and say, 'look I'm interested in one of your players'. That's what should happen out of courtesy.

"All we can do is wish him the best. I just hope he's made the right choice."

Of the move, Thorpe said, "It all happened very quickly but I'm looking forward to playing. The financial difficulties at Luton have given me this chance and I hope I can bring some form with me to QPR.

"I'm proud of my goal scoring ratio and hopefully this will be a good move. I had a chat with my wife and family and we all agreed that this was the right time to move and to go to a bigger club - hopefully there will be some good times ahead."

The move sparked outrage amongst Hatters fans – QPR had become a real rival to the Hatters over the past few years and were arguably the biggest rivals behind Watford – so for Thorpe to join them was a kick in the teeth to say the least. On leaving the Hatters, Thorpe had made 32 League appearances during his second permanent spell with the club, scoring 15 goals – and a total of 164 League appearances and 70 goals during his entire Luton Town career.

However, the move to Loftus Road didn't work out quite as Thorpe had hoped, despite helping the club gain promotion to the Championship in his first season with the R's. He struggled to earn a regular place in Queen's Park Rangers' side and, after a brief loan spell with Rotherham United at the tail end of the 2004-05 season, he was released by Queen's Park Rangers at the end of his contract after netting 11 goals in 46 appearances for the club.

A highly unpopular figure with the Luton Town supporters at the time, for the way that he 'jumped ship' to Queen's Park Rangers at such a critical time in the Hatters' history, Thorpe wanted a return to Kenilworth Road during the 2004-05 season.

He eventually joined Swindon Town, but the move didn't work out and, after a trial spell with Wrexham, he signed for League One side Colchester United midway through the 2005-06 season.

After helping Colchester gain promotion to the Championship, Thorpe was released and after a successful trial spell with Stevenage Borough, he signed for the Conference side, prior to moving on loan to League Two outfit Grimsby Town in October 2006.

After 5 appearances during his loan spell at Blundell Park, he returned to Stevenage but, after just 3 appearances during his six-month stay at Broadhall Way, he was allowed to return to Grimsby Town on loan, signing a deal until the end of the 2006-07 season with the Mariners.

However, he made just one substitute appearance in his second spell at Blundell Park before being released in the summer of 2007 and once again finding himself without a club. It didn't take Thorpe long to find new employers, however, as he signed for Blue Square North side Tamworth in May 2007.

In November 2007, Thorpe became the player/coach of Luton's neighbours Barton Rovers, who play in the Southern League Division One Midlands league, replacing former Hatter Dean Brennan, who had left Sharpenhoe Road to join Halesowen Town.

In May 2008, Thorpe surprisingly appeared for Luton Town's legends side in a 2-1 win over an Arsenal Pro-Celebrity XI to mark the 20th anniversary of the Hatters' Littlewoods Cup win over the Gunners at Wembley in 1988.

After initially being booed on entering the action, the groans quickly faded and Thorpe looked every bit the great player he was, his quick feet causing the Arsenal defence all sorts of problems. With his family in the crowd, it was good to see that perhaps what happened can now finally stay in the past. After all, there can be no question that Thorpe is a Luton legend – he is the only Luton player EVER to top the professional scoring League for the whole of Europe when he scored over 30 goals in 1996.

It now appears that many Hatters fans have forgiven Thorpe for the way he left the club in 2003 and he has certainly gone some way to rectifying the past.
Story date: Friday, August 15, 2008

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Story date: Wednesday, August 13, 2008

LUTON SIGN WATSON AND KLEIN-DAVIES

Two more signings have been confirmed today by Luton Town – taking the tally of new arrivals to 11!

Midfielder Kevin Watson, 34, who has been involved in the Hatters’ pre-season matches, has joined on a one-year deal after leaving Colchester United.

Meanwhile, 19-year-old 6 ft 2 striker Josh Klein-Davies has signed on a month’s loan from League One side Bristol Rovers.

Watson started his career as a trainee with his local side Tottenham Hotspur. As a youngster his first-team opportunities were limited and he went out on loan to several sides to build his experience, namely Brentford, Bristol City and Barnet.

In 1996 he was signed by Swindon Town manager Steve McMahon. Newly promoted to the second tier of the English Football League - Watson helped them avoid relegation.

Watson moved on to Rotherham United in July 1999, astute Millers' manager Ronnie Moore signing him on a free transfer. In his first season Watson helped Rotherham to promotion from League Two, narrowly missing out on the title.

Another promotion (and another title near miss) followed in the next season and Rotherham were promoted again into the Football League Championship. A key part of their rapid acceleration, Watson helped guide the team to survival by the narrowest of goal-difference margins.

After over 100 games at Rotherham his knack for promotions was spotted by then Reading manager Alan Pardew who at first, took Watson on loan before signing him permanently in March 2002 for £150,000 - where he promptly repeated the trick, guiding the Royals to promotion from League One, in his now customary second place.
His first full season at Reading saw the Royals into a play-off place, where narrow defeat to Wolves cost them a place in the Premiership. Perhaps tellingly Watson was on the bench for those key play-off games.

When former team-mate Phil Parkinson was installed as manager at Colchester United one of his first acts was to bring Watson to Layer Road.

Marshalling the midfield Watson played a key role as in his (and Parkinson's) first full season the U's stormed to promotion from League One, finishing in second place.

He had played over 100 games for the U's and was a key part of "The Best Col U ever" as the underdog U's finished their first season in the Football League Championship in 10th place.

Bristol-born striker Klein-Davies, 19, who has represented Wales at Under-17 and Under-19 level, has joined from Bristol Rovers on a month’s loan.

He started his career as an academy player at Bristol City before signing for Bristol Rovers in May 2007 after being released by Bristol City. He played in the Avon Youth League for Cadbury Heath FC from a young age and started out at Stoke Lane A.F.C.

In November 2007, Klein-Davies joined Yate Town on a one-month loan deal to enable him to gain first-team experience. This loan was extended for a second month, but the deal was cut short when Bristol Rovers recalled him to the Memorial Stadium in late December. He scored a total of five goals in eight League appearances for Yate.

Klein-Davies made his Football League debut on December 29th 2007, when he came on as a substitute for Andy Williams in a home match against Carlisle United. He scored his first senior goal against Huddersfield Town with a header from close range.

Upon his arrival at Kenilworth Road, he had made 10 appearances for Bristol Rovers, scoring 1 goal.
Story date: Friday, August 8, 2008

LUTON TOWN ANNOUNCE EIGHT NEW SIGNINGS!

Luton Town have completed their first eight signings of the summer in time for Saturday's first match of the season, the League Two clash at Kenilworth Road against Port Vale.

The Hatters have signed the following eight players...

Kevin Nicholls, 29, midfield and club captain, from Preston North End
Claude Gnakpa, 25, right-back, from Peterborough United
George Pilkington, 26, central defender, from Port Vale
Asa Hall, 21, midfield, from Birmingham City
Rossi Jarvis, 20, midfield, from Norwich City
Ian Roper, 31, central defender, from Walsall
Chris Martin, 19, striker, on a season-long loan from Norwich City
Tristan Plummer, 18, winger/forward on loan from Bristol City

Manager Mick Harford said, "I'm delighted. I want a blend of youth and experience so that we have players who can develop their talents with us, alongside players who know what it takes for promotion.

"We know the task that has been set for us, and every player joining knows that come May, they will be legends and part of football folklore. I have no doubt that next May we will have the biggest party Bedfordshire has seen for many years. Before we get there though, we'd have succeeded in putting together a group of players that will fight tooth and nail for every point.

"Many of the players have featured in my plans for some time so they have had a few weeks to get to know each other and work in training together. Every single player will be proud to pull on a Luton shirt and that is the spirit we need.

"I've now been able to add quality players to the team and I can tell you the dressing room is buzzing. We can't wait for Saturday."

Managing Director Gary Sweet confirmed that more signings are likely to follow these eight new arrivals!
Story date: Friday, August 8, 2008

LUTON SNAP-UP YOUNG NORWICH CITY DUO ON LOAN

Luton Town have completed the double captures of young Norwich City duo Chris Martin and Michael Spillane on season-long loans.

Martin, 19, an England U-19 international, is a pacy striker who has made 25 League appearances, scoring 4 goals to date for the Canaries after progressing through their youth academy.

After impressing in the club's FA Youth Cup run, including two goals against Portsmouth, he was given a place on the bench for a game against Plymouth Argyle on January 13th 2007. He was set to make his first senior start away at Burnley, although the match being postponed prevented him from doing this, but he made his first-team debut in Norwich's 0-1 home defeat against Wolves ten days later on January 30th 2007.

Martin scored his first goal in an FA Cup Fourth Round replay against Blackpool in February 2007 at Carrow Road; the goal eventually proved to be the winner for Norwich. He grabbed his first league goal against Coventry City on in late February 2007.

Two more League goals against Barnsley and, ironicially, at Kenilworth Road against the Hatters quickly followed, as he began to firmly establish himself as a fans' favourite. His run of goal scoring form continued against Derby County, scoring one and having another ruled offside.

Martin scored on his debut for the England Under-19s, when he came on as a late substitute in a 1-0 victory against Turkey in March 2007. He apparently turned down the opportunity to represent Scotland (he was eligible due to his Father being a Glaswegian) in favour of representing England.

However, Martin was rumoured to have suffered from off-the-field problems, as a newspaper article alleged that he had been banned from several pubs in the Beccles, Bungay and Southwold areas for continuous brawls.

Meanwhile, Spillane, 19, is a Republic Of Ireland U-21 international midfielder, with two caps to his name upon joining Luton Town.
A tough-tackling midfielder who can also operate in defence, Spillane signed a full, professional, three-year contract with Norwich City on June 30th 2006. He had already made his first-team debut by this time however, against West Ham United in the 2006 FA Cup Third Round.

He has also represented the Republic of Ireland U-17 side, for whom he was the captain, in the Algarve tournament. He captained the Republic of Ireland U-18 side to an international tournament win, scoring twice in the Portugal tournament; netting in a 2-2 draw with Belgium and then striking a late winner against the hosts. The squad also recorded a 3-1 win against Georgia.

Spillane was given his first extended run in the Norwich side towards the end of the 2006-07 season. He got his chance in the centre of midfield due to injuries to Youssef Safri, Simon Lappin and Mark Fotheringham.

Upon joining Luton Town, Spillane had made 13 League appearances for the Carrow Road-based side.

Their arrivals are expected to be followed by the permanent signings of triallists Asa Hall, George Pilkington, Ian Roper and Claude Gnakpa.
Story date: Thursday, August 7, 2008

LUTON TOWN RE-SIGN LEGEND KEVIN NICHOLLS!

The massively popular tough-tackling midfielder Kevin Nicholls has rejoined Luton Town from Preston North End on a three-year deal.

The hugely influential midfielder has become the first new signing for Hatters manager Mick Harford and the new LTFC2020 consortium as he penned his three-year deal on the Kenilworth Road pitch during the half-time interval of the Hatters' pre-season clash with Brighton & Hove Albion.

Speculation has been rife all summer over Nicholls returning to Kenilworth Road, after he played in May’s anniversary match for a Luton Legends side to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Hatters’ Littlewoods Cup win over Arsenal in 1988.

In addition, it has been reported by those in attendance of the day’s Loyal Luton Supporters Club meeting that a further 6 players will be signing, making a total of 7 new arrivals, with 5 reported to be announced on Monday. Nicholls is also reported to have been installed as the Hatters’ club captain for next season, when Luton will start on an unprecedented –30 points in League Two.

His arrival represents somewhat of a coup for Luton Town and the new owners to say the least and his status as a cult hero amongst Hatters fans will make his arrival all the more popular.

His tough tackling and spirit and never-say-die attitude are undoubtedly what Luton Town will need as they embark on what is going to be a mammoth struggle to avoid relegation from the Football League for the first time in their 123-year history.

Nicholls originally joined Luton Town from Wigan Athletic for a fee that could rise to £150,000 depending upon appearances. The 22 year-old former Charlton Athletic midfielder signed a three-year deal at Kenilworth Road, with the initial fee for Nicholls just £25,000 and he became manager Joe Kinnear's fifth signing of the 2001-02 pre-season.

Nicholls began as a trainee at Charlton Athletic and he made his debut in the 1996-97 season as a substitute against Ipswich Town and his full debut against Burnley in the League Cup just three days later. He made only spasmodic appearances during the season, but he scored a spectacular long-range goal in the opening minute of his first full League game against Barnsley at The Valley.

He began the 1997-98 season as a substitute in the first three games, before starting the next two, but he then featured only twice more on the bench before missing the rest of the season with a knee injury.

He failed to make an appearance for Charlton during the 1998-99 season and moved to Brighton & Hove Albion on loan, scoring on his debut in a 1-2 defeat to Leyton Orient. After four games with the Seagulls, he returned to Charlton, but, after a total of 16 appearances in all competitions for The Valiants, he joined Wigan Athletic in June 1999 for a fee of £250,000 as a replacement for the departed Paul Rogers. The fee rose up to £600,000 after a certain number of first-team appearances.

The 1999-00 season saw Nicholls begin to establish himself as a regular first-team player, although injuries restricted him to 8 appearances with the Latics, making his debut in a 2-0 win over Cardiff City in October 1999.

He made 26 appearances in the 2000-01 season for Wigan, a side who were successful and reached the Second Division (now known as League One) play-offs. After a 0-0 draw in the semi-final first leg with Reading, he gave Wigan the lead at The Madejski Stadium, only for Reading to score two late goals and reach the play-off final.

Nicholls is a Roy Keane type of player who likes to get stuck in and make important tackles in the middle of the park. He had his share of injury problems while with Wigan Athletic, but former manager Steve Bruce gave him a chance in the first-team, where Nicholls produced some outstanding performances.

A fierce and competitive midfielder, Hatters manager Joe Kinnear was hoping that Nicholls could add some steel to the side and fill the void left by Paul McLaren's departure to Sheffield Wednesday.

Nicholls immediately forced his way into Luton's side, playing as a central midfielder, and he was a pivotal member of what eventually became a promotion-winning team.

Nicholls made his Luton debut on the opening day of the season in a 2-0 win at Carlisle United, and he quickly became a firm fans' favourite with his crunching tackles, never-say-die attitude and general nastiness towards the opposition! Receiving a yellow card in the win at Brunton Park, it was pretty evident to all Luton supporters that he would have certain disciplinary problems during the season - and this was further demonstrated when he was sent-off for two bookable offences in the next match, his home debut, in a 2-1 win over Cheltenham. A virtual ever-present during the season as depicted by suspensions and injury, Nicholls scored his first goal for Luton in a 1-1 home draw with Oxford United on August 9th 2001, and he went on to score a further 5 times during the campaign - 4 of the goals from the penalty spot as he became the Hatters' penalty-taker.

As important to Luton as Roy Keane, Patrick Vieira, and Steven Gerrard were to their sides, and very much in the same mould, Nicholls was arguably the bargain of the season for the Hatters. A consistent performer who wears his heart on his sleeve, he also became the team captain, his aggression, influence and determination an example to all of the other Luton players. Surprisingly, for a tough-tackler and ball-winner, Nicholls wasn't sent-off again during the rest of the campaign, the dismissal against Cheltenham the only marching orders he received throughout the season. He was, however, shown a yellow card on no less than 16 occasions!

Certainly not only a ball-winner, and very much able to play the passing game and score the odd goal or two, Nicholls was instrumental in the season, which saw Luton earn their first promotion for 20 years and finish 2nd in Division Three (League Two) with 97 points. He made a total of 43 appearances, 42 of them coming in the League, and also scored from the spot as Luton beat Plymouth Argyle 2-0 at Kenilworth Road on February 2nd 2002 in a promotion six-pointer.

Nicholls was rewarded for his magnificent campaign by winning the Junior Supporters' Player of the Year award and he was also handed a one-year extension to his contract. Upon signing his contract extension, Nicholls was described by the then Luton manager Joe Kinnear as "The life and soul of the football club".

He once again had a solid 2002-03 season as his tough-tackling and ability to ‘get stuck in’ continued to earn him a reputation as a fans’ favourite – as well as earning him somewhat of a reputation with the referees!

Undoubtedly the hard man of the Second Division and arguably a poor man’s Roy Keane or Patrick Vieira, Nicholls always rallied his troops when he needed to and his 10 yellow cards and one red card typified the no-nonsense player that he is! However, rest assured that he can play football too and his all-round game continued to develop throughout the course of the season.

Always one of the first names on manager Joe Kinnear’s team sheet when available for selection, he captained the Hatters to a 2-1 victory at Vicarage Road against local rivals Watford in the League Cup First Round in September 2002 – his first local derby as a Luton Town player!

His single dismissal of the campaign came in a 0-0 home draw with Queen’s Park Rangers in late November when the Hatters also had Steve Howard sent off but still managed to battle to earn a point.
He made a total of 39 appearances during the course of the season (36 of those appearances coming in the League) and he continued to be the club’s penalty taker, netting three of his five goals during the season from 12-yards and not missing a single one of his spot-kicks. However, he also showed that he had the ability to emulate fellow midfielder Matthew Spring’s long-range shooting when he netted from 20-yards in a 2-3 home loss to Mansfield Town and then with a scintillating free-kick straight into the top corner from fully 25-yards in a 3-2 home win over Northampton Town. Also given the responsibility of corner kick taker by Kinnear, Nicholls was not only the captain of the side, but also became the set-piece specialist.

He had another good season during the 2003-04 campaign as he helped the club to a 10th placed finish, a good outcome considering the club had spent the entire season in administrative receivership.
Nicholls not only helped on the pitch, but also off it, as he rallied the players, who had spent the whole season under a cloud of uncertainty, occasionally not even receiving their wages and also not sure whether the club would be in a position to offer them new contracts at the end of the season.

He remained club captain under new boss Mike Newell, although on the field he was disappointed to begin the season on the right-hand side of midfield as opposed to his preferred role of a ball-winning central midfielder.

Appearing in that position for the first five matches of the campaign, he netted the first of his two goals during the season from the penalty spot in a 1-2 home loss to eventually relegated Grimsby Town, but, unfortunately in the next match, a 0-2 defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion, he suffered an injury and it forced him to miss the next five months of action.

He returned in a 0-1 home loss to Tranmere Rovers in an FA Cup Fourth Round tie, showing his dedication to the cause by playing when not even fully fit. Two matches later, he was back on the score sheet as he netted a penalty in an excellent 2-0 home win over Brighton & Hove Albion – a club he had formerly played for during a loan spell, and who he had ironically been injured against earlier in the campaign.

He was thereafter a regular in the side for the remainder of the season, and following an injury to regular central midfielders Matthew Spring and Paul Hughes, Nicholls ended the season in his preferred central midfield role and looked a better player and more relaxed.

He was also sent off once in the season – for elbowing Nathan Lowndes in a 1-1 home draw with eventual champions Plymouth Argyle.
Appearing in 23 matches in all competitions during the season, Nicholls had made over 100 appearances for the club in all competitions by the end of the 2003-04 season and the 'Roy Keane of Luton Town' was hoping that he could continue to help the club progress during the forthcoming season - and he certainly did that!
He had a superb season with Luton Town during the 2004-05 campaign – arguably his best season with the Hatters.

Once again the skipper of the side, he led by example throughout the season, his never-say-die attitude and determination shining through and he weighed in with several important goals as the Hatters ran away with the League One Championship.

Appearing in 44 of Luton’s 46 League matches during the season, he endured his best-ever campaign on the goal front, bagging a very impressive 12 League goals and 14 goals in all competitions from central midfield. Coupled with the 15 League goals from fellow midfielder Ahmet Brkovic, the midfield pair weighed in with 27 League goals between them – this a huge factor in the Hatters success.

Although most of Nicholls’ goals were from the penalty spot, he also scored some fine long-range efforts, notably at Wycombe Wanderers in the FA Cup, and a fantastic 30-yard strike at Doncaster Rovers as the season drew to a close.

In fact, his form was so good, that he attracted bids from several unnamed clubs who admired the Hatters for having such a combative and talented midfielder at their disposal.

The improvement that Nicholls had made during the season was immense and along with the emergence of Ahmet Brkovic, Sol Davis and Curtis Davies, the Hatters had players who had improved in leaps and bounds all over the pitch.

Not only did Nicholls’ technical ability seem to be much better, but his discipline was also greatly improved as he received just seven yellow cards and one red card during the season – that a good return for Nicholls!

Lifting the League One Championship at the end of the season, Nicholls had endured a memorable season and he was rewarded for his magnificent campaign by winning the Player of the Year and Supporters’ Player of the Year awards. He was also one of six Luton Town players named in the PFA League One Team of the Season, as voted for by his fellow professionals.

Nicholl had another superb season with Luton Town during the 2005-06 campaign as he captained the Hatters to a 10th placed finish – an excellent achievement for their first season back at Championship level.

One of only a small number of the squad to have played at this level before, he was once again an inspirational figure in the side and he weighed in with 6 important goals in all competitions, mainly from the penalty spot.

The tough-tackling captain continued to show the classier side he had added to his game the previous season, and this marked improvement in his all-round play has transformed him from a lower League player to someone who may not look out of place in the Premiership.

After captaining the Hatters to a 2-1 opening day victory at Crystal Palace, Nicholls scored the first Luton Town goal at Kenilworth Road during the season – a blistering 41st minute strike in a 3-2 win against Southampton that flew past Finnish international Antti Niemi in the Saints goal.

Equally important goals followed in August and September as Leicester City were beaten 2-0 on their own turf, and his lovely strike from the edge of the area earned a point at home to Wolves.
Although looking a classier player than he had when initially joining the Hatters, he still maintained that tenacity in his game, earning six yellow cards and also being sent off in a 0-2 loss in November 2005 at Norwich City.

Perhaps epitomising his talents the most was a January FA Cup clash with Premiership giants Liverpool in front of the BBC television cameras. Coming up against the likes of Steven Gerrard, Mohamed Sissoko and Xabi Alonso, Nicholls helped Luton come back from a goal down to lead 3-1 – his well-taken penalty putting the Hatters in the driving seat before Liverpool turned on the style to eventually see Luton lose 3-5. However, Nicholls had shown that he could ‘mix it’ with the best and he was undoubtedly one the best players on the pitch that evening.

Missing over a month of action through injury towards the end of the season, he showed his determination and willingness to play when he battled back to start the final game of the season at Burnley (a 1-1 draw) when most players would simply have rested until the new season and seen it as an early pre-season break.

The type of player that any fan would want in their side, he attracted the interest of Hull City and Norwich City during the season, but thankfully for the Hatters faithful, he remained at Kenilworth Road.

A real fans’ favourite, Nicholls made 31 League appearances during his last season at Luton Town, the 2005-06 campaign, scoring 5 goals and the Hatters captain had made 175 League appearances for Luton Town, scoring 30 goals. However, much to the disappointment of the Luton Town fans - and coming just a day after striker Steve Howard was sold to Derby County for £1 million - Kevin was also sold. Signing a three-year deal with Championship rivals Leeds United, he left Kenilworth Road for a £700,000 transfer fee after becoming one of the most popular Luton Town players of the last decade.

However, his time at Leeds United was highly unsuccessful and in his first training session with Leeds, he suffered a knee injury but the club hoped to have him back within 3 months. Nicholls’ quick rehabilitation allowed him to make his debut for the club as a substitute in Leeds' match against Sunderland on 13 September 2006, one and a half months before he was due back.

Nicholls picked up another injury on 30 September 2006 against West Brom, damaging his medial knee ligaments, which kept him out until December. On 26 October 2006, he was made the new captain of Leeds United Football Club by new manager Dennis Wise, with Shaun Derry being appointed his deputy.

Nicholls returned from injury on 16 December 2006, starting in the 1-0 loss against Ipswich Town. This was his first game as captain of Leeds and it ended with a red card in the dying minutes. Manager Wise was adamant that Nicholls should not have been sent off but the club eventually decided not to appeal against the decision, so he missed Leeds' following three matches. He returned to the side once his suspension had been served in a 2-1 victory over Coventry City in what some Leeds fans described as a sensational performance.

However, by February 2007, many fans were booing his performances.
On 3 March 2007, Nicholls was dropped for Leeds' home match against Sheffield Wednesday. In his post-match interview, Dennis Wise said that Nicholls had asked to leave the club and return to his former club Luton Town. However, Wise stated that he would not allow him to return to Luton unless the original fee of £700,000 was paid back to Leeds. It was also stated that Nicholls had been stripped of his captaincy.

He became somewhat of a hate figure amongst Leeds fans. It was then reported in May 2007 that Nicholls and new captain Jonathan Douglas had featured in a training ground bust up with Dennis Wise. Blighted by controversy, Nicholls was eventually sold to Preston North End for £600,000 in July 2007 after just 13 appearances for Leeds United.

Still a massively popular figure with the Luton Town fans, there were hopes that he would return to Kenilworth Road, but with the Hatters unable to meet his wage demands and having been relegated to League One, he decided to make the move to Deepdale.

The move to Deepdale did not work out quite as planned and, in May 2008, Nicholls sparked rumours of a return to Kenilworth Road when he surprisingly appeared for Luton Town's legends side in a 2-1 win over an Arsenal Pro-Celebrity XI to mark the 20th anniversary of the Hatters' Littlewoods Cup win over the Gunners at Wembley in 1988.

With Nicholls still contracted to Preston North End, it was a shock to say the least to many Hatters fans to see him enter the fray in his usual central midfield role. It certainly left many Luton supporters wondering whether he’d be returning to Kenilworth Road. It was also rumoured that he stated at the end of the clash that it “was not his last game for Luton” and that he “really hopes he’s coming back.”

When asked officially by journalists on the chances of a return to Kenilworth Road, Nicholls said, "You never know do you. I had six fantastic years here but for now I'm a Preston player and thankfully they let me play here today.

"Luton is a fantastic club. I adore the fans and they've been fantastic to me. They were a big part of why I was so successful as a player here, I can't speak highly enough of them. It was good to run out at Kenilworth Road again."

Nicholls also had a word of praise for current Luton boss Mick Harford, saying, "I was at Luton with him under Joe Kinnear and he was fantastic. Obviously it's been a very unfortunate time with two relegations but I think he's the right man to take the club forward. He'll bring his own players in and I believe they'll be ready for next season and I hope they have a fantastic campaign."
Story date: Saturday, August 2, 2008

LUTON DEFENDER GOODALL JOINS CHESTERFIELD

Luton Town have allowed another player to leave the club as left-back Alan Goodall has completed a move to League Two rivals Chesterfield on a free transfer.

The former Rochdale defender has signed a two-year deal with the Spireites after impressing during an appearance as a trialist in their midweek win over Sheffield Wednesday at Saltergate.

Signed by former Hatters boss Kevin Blackwell from Rochdale last summer, Goodall had a rather disappointing season for Luton Town in 2007-08 as the Hatters endured a torrid campaign on and off the field, which culminated in relegation to League Two - their second successive relegation.

Featuring regularly at left-back under manager Kevin Blackwell as the campaign began, Goodall enjoyed a solid enough start to the season and, in fact, he scored the winning goal with a header from a corner on his Luton Town debut as the Hatters defeated Hartlepool United 2-1 at Kenilworth Road on the opening day of the season.
A virtual ever-present under Blackwell at left-back, Goodall was preferred by Blackwell to the popular Sol Davis, and he showed his versatility during the campaign by also appearing in the centre of the defence when asked to do so.

However, the Hatters were placed into administration in November 2007 by chairman David Pinkney, deducted 10 League points as a result, and they plummeted into the relegation places. Blackwell left in January 2008, and he was replaced as manager by Luton legend Mick Harford. Harford quickly tried to impose his own authority on the team and Goodall was soon dropped to the bench and replaced at left-back by Sol Davis.

Both Goodall and Richard Jackson, the two new full-backs signed by Kevin Blackwell during the summer of 2007, were criticised by Hatters fans and both ended the season out of the starting XI.

Making a total of 36 appearances in all competitions during the campaign, Goodall was one of six players transfer-listed and made available on a free transfer at the end of the season by Hatters boss Mick Harford and he has now signed for Chesterfield after just one season at Kenilworth Road.
Story date: Friday, August 1, 2008

LUTON MIDFIELDER SPRING MAKES SHEFFIELD UNITED LOAN MOVE

In a surprise transfer, Luton Town midfielder Matthew Spring has left the Hatters for the second time in his career, linking up with former Luton boss Kevin Blackwell at Sheffield United on a one-year loan deal.

The move has almost certainly come about as a result of Spring’s rumoured high weekly wage, with Sheffield United likely to be paying his wages and thus reducing the wage bill at Kenilworth Road.
Spring featured regularly at the heart of the Hatters' midfield last season - a campaign that was an absolutely awful season for Luton Town both on and off the field in 2007-08.

Playing in the centre of midfield, where he was asked to dictate the play and orchestrate Luton's attacking moves, Spring was also handed the role of Luton's penalty taker and he weighed in with an impressive 12 goals in all competitions during the campaign, making him the club's joint top goal scorer with Paul Furlong. This tally was all the more impressive given that the Hatters ended the campaign by finishing bottom of the League One table.

His first goal of the season came from the spot in a 2-1 win at Dagenham & Redbridge in the League Cup First Round and he went on to net again in the competition with a rare headed goal in a 3-1 win over Charlton Athletic at Kenilworth Road before the Hatters eventually bowed out against Premiership side Everton in Round Four.
Playing in 53 matches during the season in all competitions for the Hatters, Spring was a mainstay in the side under manager Kevin Blackwell and his successor, Mick Harford.

Although Luton had started the season in solid if unspectacular form, a huge blow hit the club in November 2007 when chairman David Pinkney placed the club into administration. The Hatters were automatically deducted 10 League points and dropped to the bottom of the League One table. The sales of key players Chris Coyne and David Edwards - sold by the administrator - took their toll and with a depleted squad, manager Kevin Blackwell left his role as manager in January 2008.

His replacement, Luton legend Mick Harford, continued to play Spring in the centre of midfield, usually alongside either Steve Robinson or Stephen O'Leary. However, with the squad wafer thin and, without a recognised central defender, Luton were relegated to League Two just a year after Spring had joined the club when they were in the Championship.

A tenacious midfielder who loves to drive forward into the opposition's penalty box, Spring had re-joined Luton Town in mid-January 2007 from archrivals Watford for a fee of £200,000 that could rise to £300,000 depending upon his success at Kenilworth Road.

Returning to the Hatters at the age of 27, he signed a two-and-a-half-year deal.

A star of the Luton Town youth team that reached the FA Youth Cup semi-final in 1997, Spring came through the youth ranks at Luton and made 250 League appearances during his first spell, scoring 26 goals for the Hatters after making his senior debut in 1997-98 in a 0-3 loss at Bristol City.

During his first spell, Spring had an eventful home debut against Plymouth Argyle, a 3-0 win, and a result that ended a run of 11 winless games and 4 consecutive defeats. However, this normally controlled midfielder was sent off late in the game for an impetuous tackle and was thereafter used sparingly for the remainder of the season by then Luton manager Lennie Lawrence.

He has great vision and the ability to read a game, and was voted joint Young Player of the Year for the 1997-98 season with the now departed Gary Doherty.

Spring followed up his first season in professional football by making an amazing 52 appearances in all competitions for Luton in the 1998-99 season, despite being only 18 years of age. He missed only one of Luton's fixtures for the entire season, that being due to an injury. He liked to push forward, and also scored the odd goal from midfield, a total of 4 for the season not being bad at all for such a young player. Spring signed a new contract during the season to the delight of the Hatters fans.

The 1999-00 campaign really saw Spring excel. A virtual ever-present, he figured in 52 of the Hatters 54 matches and also scored 8 goals — almost all of which were fine goals. Many Luton supporters will remember for a long time the 30-yard thunderbolts in the FA Cup matches against Kingstonian and Fulham, the first even being included as a contender for the ‘Goal of the Month’ on BBC One’s ‘Match of the Day’ programme.

He also scored two superb goals in the 4-1 home win over Scunthorpe United in January, one a drive from the edge of the penalty area, the other a sweet curling effort. His other goals also came at very critical moments, with the winner in the home match against Blackpool, the second in the 3-1 victory over Wrexham and the second in the win at Cardiff City. In fact, Spring grew in confidence so much, and such was the confidence in his ability, that he became a contender for the club penalty taker, scoring the equaliser in an eventual 1-2 defeat at Stoke City.

The 2000-01 season was a disappointing campaign both for Luton, who were relegated to Division Three (now League Two), and for Spring, who never quite fulfilled the promise of the previous three seasons. Although he did put in some good performances, it was apparent to everyone that he was not playing to his full ability. As Luton endured a disastrous start to the campaign, the worst in the club's history, Spring's form suffered too, although he did score from the penalty spot in the third match of the season, a 1-0 win over Bournemouth. He was sent-off at Cambridge United for a late tackle as Luton were beaten 1-2, but returned two matches later with a goal, another penalty, in a 3-1 win over Brentford at Kenilworth Road.

A virtual ever-present for the entire season, under all three Luton managers - Ricky Hill, Lil Fuccillo and Joe Kinnear - Spring went on to score 2 more goals during the campaign, in a 3-2 Boxing Day victory over Peterborough United and in a 1-3 defeat at Walsall. In total, he made 51 appearances during the season, 41 of those coming in the League.

Spring was yet again an automatic choice in Luton's midfield during the 2001-02 season and he barely missed a game when he returned from an injury that sidelined him for the first month of the season. His first appearance of the campaign came in a 2-2 draw at Exeter City on September 1st 2001, and in his 8th match of the season, he netted his first goal, scoring in a 5-2 home win over Darlington, but also missing a last minute penalty which resulted in Kevin Nicholls being awarded the penalty-taking responsibilities for the remainder of the season. It was Spring's partnership with Nicholls, however, that had seen Luton dominate almost every midfield battle throughout the season, and the two of them combined superbly in the middle of the park, Nicholls with his fierce tackling and Spring with his ball-playing skills and long-range shooting. His second goal of the season was the winner as Shrewsbury Town were beaten 1-0 at Kenilworth Road in mid-November, and he netted again in a 2-1 win at Oxford United on Boxing Day, as he completed a fine passing move that he had himself started by firing home from the edge of the area.

He netted another two goals in an excellent 4-1 win at Kidderminster in January, and one further goal during the remainder of the campaign followed, as Halifax Town were thumped 5-0 at Kenilworth Road in March 2002.

The season was most certainly one to remember for both Spring and Luton - the Hatters stormed to promotion back to Division Two (now League One) at the first attempt, their first promotion season for 20 years. For Spring personally, it was the first taste of silverware as a Luton player, and the season also saw him silence some of his critics, who had criticised him during the relegation season that Luton had suffered during the previous campaign.
Out-of-contract at the end of the season, it looked as though Spring may leave the Hatters and join Matthew Taylor in signing for a First Division (Championship) club. However, much to the relief and joy of both manager Joe Kinnear and the Hatters supporters, Spring agreed to sign a new two-year deal that kept him at Kenilworth Road until 2004.

Spring enjoyed another fairly good season during the 2002-03 campaign, which culminated in him netting 8 goals in all competitions and that was a good tally for the central midfielder who has an eye for goal and is a great striker of the ball.
He was, once again, always a regular in the side and would always be in manager Joe Kinnear’s central midfield when he was available – usually operating alongside skipper and tough-tackling Kevin Nicholls.

He netted his first goal of the season in the fourth match of the campaign as he scored from close-range in a 2-3 home defeat to Barnsley, and four matches later he was back on the score sheet with a vital goal – and some goal it was too! It came on the evening of Tuesday, September 10th 2002 at Vicarage Road against local rivals Watford in the League Cup First Round. With 4,500 travelling Hatters fans located in the Vicarage Road end and the atmosphere buzzing for the first derby match between the two sides for 5 years. With the game tied at 0-0 after 31 minutes, Spring slid in to tackle a Hornets player and emerged with the ball just inside his own half. He burst through the middle and ran with the ball as the home sides midfielders and defence tried desperately to dispossess him. However, dispossess him they couldn’t and, with striker Dean Crowe making a run to the left and many Luton fans expecting Spring to feed a ball through to him, he instead opted to shoot from some 35-yards out – and the ball flew into the top right-hand corner of ex-Hatters goalkeeper Alec Chamberlain’s goal and looked as if it was still rising when it hit the back of the net! It was right in front of the Watford supporters’ end and sent the travelling Luton fans wild! Spring ran the full length of the pitch to celebrate in front of the Hatters fans – as a born and bred Luton lad it was clear to see how much it meant for Spring, who was incidentally playing in his first derby match between the two sides. He then put a great ball through for striker Steve Howard to score for Luton and make it 2-0 after 41 minutes – and despite a goal from the home side, the Hatters held on to win 2-1 and knock their arch-rivals out! It was a truly great night and Spring was nothing less than sensational!
Now playing fairly consistently, Spring was in the goals again six matches later when he netted a brace in a 3-2 victory at Stockport County as the Hatters began to climb the Division Two table and make a bid for a play-off place.

He netted another of his long-range specialities in a 4-0 home win over Non-League AFC Guiseley in the FA Cup First Round and it began a purple patch of 4 goals in 8 matches for Spring. The second of his four goals came in a superb 3-1 win at fellow play-off hopefuls Tranmere Rovers, and in late January he scored in a 3-2 win at Barnsley and in a 1-0 home victory over Wycombe Wanderers.

Those goals were, however, to be his last goals of the season and his form dipped slightly towards the end of the campaign as Luton failed to achieve their play-off aspirations and finished in 9th position in Division Two (League One).

Spring made 40 League appearances during the course of the season and made a total of 45 appearances in all competitions, his 8 goals going some way to helping the Hatters to a fairly decent season – and his magnificent goal at Watford will always be remembered!
Spring had a rather disappointing 2003-04 season as he missed the last three months of the campaign through injury.

He had begun the season well enough, netting with a header in stoppage-time to seal a 3-1 opening day victory over Rushden & Diamonds.

As always, he was an automatic selection in the centre of Luton Town's midfield, new manager Mike Newell seemingly as impressed with Spring's abilities as all of the other previous Hatters bosses who had nurtured the home grown talent.

Spring was a regular in the side up until early January 2004 when he suffered an injury in a 2-1 FA Cup Third Round win at Bradford City, which forced him to sit out the following month's action. However, despite not being fully fit, he returned to the side in early February 2004 in a 1-0 home victory over Colchester United. However, after two further appearances, in a 2-0 home win over eventually-promoted Brighton & Hove Albion and in a 0-0 draw at Wycombe Wanderers, Spring finally succumbed to his injury and missed the remainder of the season.

Having made 30 appearances in all competitions during the season (24 in the League) Spring had made 250 League appearances for Luton Town at the end of the 2003-04 season, netting 26 goals. Including all competitions, Spring had made over 300 appearances for the club – an excellent achievement at the age of just 24.

However, Spring was out-of-contract at the end of the season and he took the opportunity to join Championship side Leeds United on a Bosman free transfer.

Spring had also been interesting Nottingham Forest, who were managed by ex-Hatters boss Joe Kinnear.

It was sad news for the Hatters, who had not wanted to see Spring leave, but manager Mike Newell had been resigned to losing the key midfielder, who has been a regular first-team member for the last six seasons after progressing through the club's youth system.
He became the eighth new singing for new Leeds United boss Kevin Blackwell, following in the footsteps of fellow new arrivals Clarke Carlisle, Danny Cadamarteri, Julian Joachim, Paul Butler, Jermaine Wright, Michael Ricketts and Danny Pugh.

Spring said of his move to Elland Road, "It was a bit of a shock because I was lined up to go to Forest and I was pleased with that. Then a couple of days later Leeds came in with an offer.

"I had a decision to make but as soon as I saw Elland Road and thought about the atmosphere of 35,000 fans at every home game my mind was made up.

"I feel great about it. It's all been a bit of a whirlwind but it's a great opportunity."

However, the move to Elland Road turned sour as Spring endured lengthy spells out through injury. In August 2005, and after just 13 League appearances and 1 goal for Leeds, he left the club in a £150,000 move to Luton Town's archrivals Watford.

It was a strange move, especially considering he had been the player to score that sensational winning goal at Vicarage Road in the League Cup tie some three years earlier with a 35-yard screamer. However, his move to Hertfordshire had arguably now put him into the same hate category amongst Luton Town supporters as his old team mate Tony Thorpe, who left the Hatters for rivals Queen's Park Rangers.

One thing was for sure - his move to Watford would add even more spice to the local derbies - as if any were needed – and it certainly did that! He received his fair share of ‘stick’ from Hatters fans as Watford won 2-1 at Kenilworth Road during the 2005-06 campaign and then as the sides played out a 1-1 draw at Vicarage Road.

He quickly became a Premiership player for the first time in his career, helping the Hornets to promotion to the top flight in his first season at Vicarage Road and scoring a vital goal in the play-off semi-final against Crystal Palace. In total, he netted 9 goals from midfield during the season for the Hornets, including a goal on his debut against Burnley in August 2005.

However, after helping Watford to the Premiership, he was unable to break into Watford manager Aidy Boothroyd's Premiership squad on a regular basis. He was limited to just two Premiership starts and four sub showings, as well as a further three Cup appearances. He left Watford after 45 League appearances and 8 goals (not counting his play-off semi-final goal).

Rumoured to be one of the highest paid players at Kenilworth Road, Spring had been linked with a move away from the Hatters to ease the wage bill. Undoubtedly a player who can play at a much higher level than League Two, now he has moved to Bramall Lane on loan, it remains to be seen whether he will be adding to the 356 career appearances and 43 goals he had scored for Luton Town prior to the start of the 2008-09 season.
Story date: Thursday, July 31, 2008

LUTON TOWN COME OUT OF ADMINISTRATION!

Luton Town Football Club 2020 Ltd (LTFC2020) can formally announce that today, the Football League have confirmed that they have approved their application to become the new custodians of Luton Town Football Club. After LTFC2020 accepted the Football League’s conditions of entry the transfer of the share in the Football League has taken place and LTFC2020 are now officially the new custodians of the Club.

This transfer of the Club’s share in the Football League means that Luton Town FC now possesses the licence to play professional football in League Two from 9th August and paves the way for the Club to exit administration on the 31st July 2008.

Gary Sweet, managing director of LTFC2020 said, “We are delighted that we can now move on and look to rebuilding the Club and ensuring survival in the professional leagues. The entire 2020 team have been working tirelessly since last autumn to save this great club and have shown to the football world that our blueprint to stabilise our Club has the official rubber stamp of all the footballing authorities which this recognises the effort and quality that has gone into our bid.

Gary continued, “Our backers have been absolutely fantastic and resolute behind our every step, for which I would like to publicly thank them. No matter what hurdles we have had to overcome, they have never waived in their support. Mick, too, has been a rock to us and we are merely in the shadow of his love for our club. Whilst there are many individuals that deserve our gratitude our biggest thanks must surely go to our fantastic supporters who have given us the constant encouragement we have needed.

Gary concluded, “This is just the start. We have proved to supporters our determination to put the heart back into our club. We now have a huge job on our hands, both on and off the pitch, to finally exorcise the ghosts of the past. On our part, getting through these dark days has only given us more energy and determination to move forward and rebuild. It’s a long-term plan as we have always said, but we are on target, we are strong, and there is a unity about the club that I haven’t witnessed for many years.”

For the fans, the past eight months have been turbulent and very worrying. They have had to cope with uncertainty, time delays, inaccurate rumours and severe penalties given solely for wrongdoings by the past management.

Stephen Browne, director of LTFC2020 commented, “It’s an historic day for all Luton Town supporters. Through their efforts the club survives to fight another day. This is a massive season for us and all supporters will need to continually show that this isn’t a one off fight, and that every game is vital. We have an unbelievable points penalty to overcome and most in the country have us as a dead cert for relegation.

“Now is definitely not the time to sit back and pat ourselves on the back. The journey is only just starting and this is where the hard work begins. Every supporter, player and employee can now focus on one thing – preserving our professional league status. We hope that everyone goes that extra mile over the coming season so that we can finish what we have started safe in the knowledge that Luton Town is now secure.”
Story date: Monday, July 28, 2008

STALEMATE AS LUTON DRAW WITH COBBLERS

A roasting hot day seemed to stifle both Luton Town and visitors Northampton Town as both sides ran out of steam at Kenilworth Road.

Both teams strangely donned their change kits for the game as neither side was able to stamp their mark on proceedings.

Luton manager Mick Harford named a strong team with a mixture of experienced first-teamers and triallists, including former Walsall centre-half Ian Roper making his first appearance in Luton's colours.

Some wonderful play from Dean Morgan almost opened the Cobblers up as early as the third minute. Turning on a sixpence on the halfway line the enigmatic Morgan, who started the game up front alongside Sam Parkin, surged forward before teasing in a cross to the far post where ex-Norwich City man Rossi Jarvis was just unable to connect.

Seconds later a very offside looking Morgan should have given Luton the lead. Parkin's beautiful reverse ball sent him clean through, but he could only fire wide of the near post with just Mark Bunn to beat.

Northampton though looked lively enough on the break and a long ball from the back found Colin Larkin and, having beaten former Peterborough defender Claude Gnakpa, Larkin forced Brill into a decent near post stop.

Stephen O'Leary had a great chance to put Luton into the lead on 15 minutes when Matthew Spring's curling through ball was allowed to run straight through the heart of Northampton's defence. O'Leary nipped in, but keeper Bunn did well to win his challenge just outside the area and clear the danger.

Liam Davis got the better of Gnakpa on 20 minutes, but Brill did well to beat away his ferocious effort.

Morgan was again off target on 26 minutes when Gnakpa's cross ran all O'Leary, his inside pass found Morgan, but he could only spoon his shot wide from the edge of the area.

Luton went close again on 29 minute with the impressive Gnakpa once again the architect. Some patient build up play allowed the Frenchman to get forward and his almost inch-perfect cross picked out Parkin who could only send his header wide.

Substitute keeper and Blackpool youngster Kyle Clancy was straight into the action three minutes into the second-half when he had to be on his toes to tip over Abdul Osman's 20-yarder.

And he then pulled off another decent stop from the resulting corner, pushing away Mark Hughes close-range header.

An unmarked Giles Coke headed over on 53 minutes, while at the other end Morgan flashed a cross/shot across the face of goal.

The diminutive Clancy produced some more fine handling when he held on to Davis' deflected effort on 65 minutes, while Jarvis' free-kick was well saved by Bunn eight minutes later.

With six minutes left Jake Howells stole into the box to get on the end of a cross from the right, but he scooped his close range effort over the bar.

And substitute Asa Hall almost stole victory for Luton in the last minute but his firm header from Scott Sinclair's cross was well held by Bunn as the game finished goalless.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Saturday, July 26, 2008

NICK OWEN INTERVIEWED IN BACKPASS MAGAZINE

THE summer issue of retro football magazine BACKPASS contains a Dream Team feature in which Nick Owen selects his all-time best Luton Town XI.

BACKPASS, a quarterly magazine launched in October, hits the newsagents for the first time next week, with a 52-page issue costing £3 and also including features on Charlie George, Chris Chilton, Craig Brown, the late Laurie Cunningham, Jimmy Greaves, George Eastham, Chris ‘the Leatherhead Lip’ Kelly, Bryan Douglas, Peter Knowles, Just Fontaine and Phil Neale.

The regular Great TV Goals of the Seventies piece recalls one of Malcolm MacDonald’s best ever for Newcastle, and there is a focus on the 1988-89 season. For more details check out www.backpassmagazine.co.uk.
Story date: Wednesday, July 23, 2008

LUTON MIDFIELDER BELL JOINS NORWICH CITY

Luton Town midfielder David Bell has completed a move to Championship side Norwich City, signing a three-year deal at Carrow Road for an undisclosed fee believed to be around £600,000.

Bell’s move to the Canaries has been in the offing all summer, and he has decided to join the Canaries despite a late bid from Coventry City. Hatters manager Mick Harford was quick to state that Bell wanted to leave Kenilworth Road, as did another Hatter sold recently, Calvin Andrew.

A tricky midfielder who loves to get forward and can operate through the centre and on both flanks, Bell joined Luton Town in the January 2006 transfer window from the then League Two side Rushden & Diamonds for £100,000.

Nicknamed the ‘Wellingborough Wizard’ during his time at Nene Park (he hails from Wellingborough), Bell came through the youth ranks with Rushden and he made his debut at senior level during the 2000-01 season in a 0-1 loss at Kingstonian in the Conference Trophy.
Two further first-team appearances followed in 2001-02 in a 1-7 drubbing at Cardiff City in the LDV Vans Trophy and in a 0-2 loss at eventual champions Plymouth Argyle in Division Three (now League Two).

However, it was during the 2002-03 campaign that Bell burst onto the scene as he appeared in a 2-2 draw with Wrexham in September 2002 and he went on to enjoy an incredible season as Rushden & Diamonds won the League Two title. Attracting interest from Premiership clubs, Bell scored three times during the season in victories over Lincoln City, Cambridge United and Macclesfield Town. Rewarded with a championship trophy, big things were expected from him the following season.

Appearing regularly in the side, it was a hard season for Bell as a young player as Rushden struggled and were relegated after just one season in Division Two (now League One).

A regular for Rushden again in 2004-05 and 2005-06, Bell’s skills twice took him to Middlesbrough for trials and scouts from bigger clubs were constantly watching him. He has also been capped by the Republic Of Ireland at both Under-19, Under-21 and ‘B’ level.

However, after scoring three times during 2005-06 and impressing in a struggling team, Bell moved to Kenilworth Road for £100,000.
Arriving at Luton Town carrying an injury, Bell didn’t appear for the Hatters until early February 2006 when he stepped off the bench to make his debut in a disappointing 2-3 home loss to Hull City.

He went on to make a further 8 appearances (6 of them coming from the bench) and he operated right across the midfield, appearing on the right, centre and left during those appearances! Looking very skilful and never afraid to run at the opposing defenders, perhaps Bell’s best moment of his first season with Luton Town was setting up Steve Howard for the winning goal in a 1-0 home victory over Derby County. It certainly wasn’t his full debut – a 1-5 drubbing at Preston North End when goalkeeper Marlon Beresford was sent off!

After making an excellent start to the 2006-07 season - which saw him come off the bench and net the winner against promotion-chasing Birmingham City in mid-October 2006 - Bell delighted the Hatters fans by signing a contract extension in January 2007. Penning an extension on his contract that tied him to Kenilworth Road until the summer of 2010, Bell had already bagged another goal during the season, netting in a 5-1 demolition of Leeds United just a week after his goal against Birmingham.

His skilful midfield play and craftsmanship, coupled with his ability to burst into the opposition's penalty box, made him a real handful for defences and there were high hopes that he could be the next big star to emerge at Luton Town - and so it was to prove.

Although Bell continued to shine for the Hatters as the 2007-08 season drew to a disappointing climax, he was unable to prevent Luton Town from suffering relegation to League One. During the season run-in, he scored his third - and final - goal of the campaign in a 2-3 loss at Queen's Park Rangers, a match that all but sealed the Hatters' relegation. He was also sent off during the season, receiving his marching orders in a 0-0 home draw with Cardiff City.

Starting the 2007-08 season very much in new manager Kevin Blackwell's plans - Blackwell having replaced the sacked Mike Newell as Hatters boss - Bell's fine footwork and ability to run at opposing defences caused him to attract the interests of a whole host of higher Division clubs.

He netted four goals during the first three months of the season - all of which resulted in Luton Town winning - and this purple patch included a fine free-kick against Premiership side Sunderland in the League Cup Second Round. However, in November 2007, Luton Town chairman Bell Pinkney placed the club into administration and the Hatters were automatically deducted 10 League points. It plummeted the Hatters into the relegation places and they were unfortunately unable to pull themselves out of the bottom four. The sales of key duo Chris Coyne and David Edwards - sold by the administrator - did not help matters and manager Kevin Blackwell also soon left, replaced as boss by Luton legend Mick Harford.

Called up to the Republic Of Ireland 'B' squad, Bell was touted for a call-up to the senior national side, but his form dipped slightly as Luton's season wilted away and resulted in a second successive relegation.

With the Hatters all-but-relegated in March 2008, manager Mick Harford loaned Bell to Championship side Leicester City, who themselves were fighting relegation. The move looked set to be made permanent, but after the Foxes lost their battle against the drop, Bell returned to Kenilworth Road with the move called off.

Rumoured to be one of the highest earners at Kenilworth Road, Bell has been sold to Norwich City, firstly to reduce the wage bill at Luton Town, and also as the fee for a League Two is very good. He left Kenilworth Road after 75 League appearances and 7 goals for Luton Town.
Story date: Wednesday, July 23, 2008

BRILL DENIES EX-HATTER HOWARD AS LUTON DRAW WITH LEICESTER

A brilliant penalty save from Dean Brill denied former Luton Town favourite Steve Howard a goal on his return to Kenilworth Road and earned the Hatters an encouraging draw against their League One opponents Leicester City.

Matthew Spring had given Luton a 1-0 first-half lead with a stunning 30-yard strike, only for Lloyd Dyer to grab an equaliser early in the second-half.

Luton fielded a strong side, packed with first -eam players and well-known triallists, including former Peterborough United defender and known target Claude Gnakpa and ex-Port Vale centre-half George Pilkington.

Played in front of a disappointing Kenilworth Road crowd, the visitors dominated the opening stages and they had the first real chance when a long ball over the top caught out centre-half Edward Asafu-Adjaye. Former Stevenage player DJ Campbell raced through, but Dean Brill did well to save with his feet.

The Foxes went close again on 16 minutes when James Wesolowski’s firm cross was whipped across the face of goal, but Campbell turned the ball wide from just a few yards out.

Dyer flashed a free-kick just wide on 20 minutes as the visitors continued to press and should have taken the lead three minutes later. Max Gradel's curling cross completely dissected Luton's defence and former Hatters favourite Howard crashed a header against the bar under pressure from Pilkington.

Luton were slow to work their way into the game and Leyton Orient triallist Efe Echanomi should have moved the hosts ahead on 28 minutes when Sam Parkin's knockdown found him just inside the area, but Echanomi fired wastefully over.

Spring though made no mistake with an absolute thunderbolt two minutes later. The classy midfielder found room 30-yards out and unleashed an absolute screamer into the top right-hand corner.

The lively Gradel cut in from the right and fired straight at Brill on 35 minutes, while Parkin fired Gnakpa’s cross over the bar from 10-yards out three minutes later.

After a lively opening to the second-half and a large number of substitutions, Dyer levelled the scores on 56 minutes. A low cross from the right evaded Luton's defence and Dyer was allowed to strike home unopposed from close range.

And the Foxes were awarded a penalty on the hour when Alan Goodall handled Chambers’ cross under pressure from Howard. The ex-Luton hit man stepped up to take the penalty, but Brill pulled of a spectacular stop, flinging himself full-stretch to his left.

Matt Fryatt saw an effort from 25-yards skim just wide on 74 minutes, while five minutes later Weymouth triallist Michael Malcolm raced clear for Luton but could only flash a shot wide with just Conrad Logan to beat.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Wednesday, July 23, 2008

HARFORD SELLS ANDREW TO PALACE

Luton Town striker Calvin Andrew has completed a move to Championship side Crystal Palace for a minimal fee that is believed to be in the region of £80,000.

The young striker, who progressed through the Hatters’ youth academy, has become the latest player to leave Kenilworth Road – with winger David Bell also set for a £600,000 switch to Norwich City.

The Hatters have also included various sell-on clauses and bonuses should Andrew become a big success at Selhurst Park.

Andrew burst onto the scene early in the 2004-05 season when his prolific goal scoring record in Youth football prompted manager Mike Newell to hand him a first-team squad number and a place in the travelling party for the Hatters' trip to Sheffield Wednesday, although he wasn't included in the final sixteen for that match.

A Lutonian, Calvin was spotted in local football by Youth Development Officer Mark Ridgway as a 16-year-old schoolboy, and was brought to the club for an extended trial. He made an immediate impact, scoring twice against Cheltenham Town in only his third Under-19 game, and was offered non-contract terms for the following 2003-04 campaign. Within weeks of the new season it was obvious that he was a talent worth keeping hold of, and after a return of fifteen goals from twenty-one games in the Under-17 and 19 sides, he was signed on a two-year Modern Apprenticeship.

Andrew made an explosive start to the 2004-05 season, scoring an incredible eight goals in three games for the Under-18 side, including hat-tricks against Northampton Town and Rushden & Diamonds. He was involved with the Reserve team, and was praised by coach Brian Stein for his performance after coming on as a substitute in a 1-2 defeat against Millwall.

Andrew made his Luton Town first-team debut in a 0-2 loss at Swansea City in the LDV Vans Trophy in late September 2004 and, after a further substitute appearance in a 3-0 victory at Wycombe Wanderers in the FA Cup Second Round, Andrew made his League debut as a 58th minute substitute at Brentford in a disappointing 0-2 defeat at Griffin Park.

The match with the Bees saw striker Steve Howard sent off and, with the bustling striker suspended for the visit of Port Vale four days later, Andrew was handed his full League debut – and his home debut – as the Hatters ran out 1-0 winners.

Scoring regularly for the Hatters Youth and Reserve sides, Andrew was handed his second full League start of the campaign in a 1-0 win at Chesterfield on Boxing Day.

After a further 5 substitute League appearances and another appearance in the FA Cup, he made a total of 8 League appearances during the 2004-05 season (6 as a substitute) and he celebrated his first season as a professional by helping Luton Town to the League One Championship.

A tall, powerful and direct front-man, Andrew possesses a lightning turn of speed and the ability to score goals both with his head and on the ground.

He had another season of gaining experience in 2005-06, mainly away from Kenilworth Road.

Loaned to League Two side Grimsby Town at the beginning of the season, Andrew impressed for Russell Slade’s men and, when coming on as a half-time substitute at Barnet at the end of August, he netted an excellent looping header just 8 seconds into the second-half – some impact when coming off the bench!

Making 8 appearances for the Mariners during his loan spell – including a League Cup clash against Premiership giants Newcastle United - Andrew returned to Kenilworth Road and Reserve team football.

He was back out on loan again in February 2006, this time to League One side Bristol City, where he made 3 first-team appearances (2 as a substitute) before returning to Bedfordshire.

Upon returning to Luton, he made one first-team appearance during an injury crisis, coming on as an 84th minute substitute at Plymouth Argyle and operating on the right-wing. However, he couldn’t have predicted the 88th minute winner he would bag to send the few hundred travelling Hatters fans wild!

He continued to feature regularly for the Hatters’ Reserve side during the 2006-07 campaign as manager Mike Newell looked to aid his development with appearances for the second string. His first appearance at senior level during the season didn’t come until March 2007 – in new manager Kevin Blackwell’s first game in charge following Newell’s sacking - when he came off the bench with 20 minutes left in a goalless draw at Burnley.

He thereafter featured regularly under Blackwell for the remainder of the campaign, making 7 appearances in total (5 of them being starting appearances) as Luton were relegated from the Championship with a whimper.

However, Andrew did get on the score sheet before the season was over, bagging a goal in a 3-1 victory at Southend United, who had also been relegated to League One with the Hatters.
He finally became a first-team regular for Luton Town during the 2007-08 season, but unfortunately for Andrew, it was a season that culminated in relegation to League Two and was beset by problems both on and off the field.

Out of the reckoning at the beginning of the season, manager Kevin Blackwell preferring the experience of Paul Furlong, Paul Peschisolido and Paul McVeigh and the pace of Drew Talbot in attack, Andrew's first start of the season came in a 2-0 home win over Northampton Town in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy in early September 2007.

He had already made three substitute appearances by this time, and this was a role that he was given regularly throughout the season as he was always in the squad, but remained in and out of the side.
The turning point in Andrew's season seemed to come in November 2007 when chairman David Pinkney placed the club into administration. The Hatters were automatically deducted 10 League points and dropped into the League One relegation places. This spurred the team into action, none more so than Andrew, who enjoyed his best spell of the campaign as the Christmas period approached, netting his first goal of the season in a 1-1 home draw with Brentford in the FA Cup First Round at Kenilworth Road.

Handed a starting place by manager Kevin Blackwell following this goal, Andrew went on to net important winning goals in League matches against Southend United and Yeovil Town, and a vitally important goal against Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup Second Round that earned a lucrative Third Round clash with Premiership giants Liverpool.

His aerial ability had drastically improved, as well as his work rate, but perhaps the biggest criticisms that could be aimed at him was that his touch sometimes seemed to be quite poor, and he also didn't contribute enough goals during the season.

However, he remained a squad regular under new manager Mick Harford, who replaced Kevin Blackwell as manager in January 2008. The subject of a £250,000 transfer bid from Southend United during the January transfer window, Calvin and Harford decided it would be in Andrew's best interests to stay at Kenilworth Road and continue to learn his trade.

However, Luton finished bottom of League One and subsequently suffered their second successive relegation during what was an awful campaign for everyone concerned at Kenilworth Road.

Making a total of 48 appearances in all competitions during the season, scoring 4 goals, Andrew had made 66 career appearances for Luton Town, scoring 6 goals. However, it was to be his last appearance in a Luton Town shirt as in July 2008, he surprisingly made the switch to the Championship, joining Crystal Palace for a minimal fee, rumoured to be £40,000.
Story date: Friday, July 18, 2008

LUTON TOWN LOSE FA APPEAL OVER FINANCIAL IRREGULARITIES

Luton Town have lost their appeal against the Football Association to get back the 10 League points and the £50,000 fine imposed in June for financial irregularities.

Coupled with the 20-point deduction imposed by the Football League last week, it now means the Hatters will definitely start the forthcoming 2008-09 League Two campaign on -30 points - an unprecedented deduction. Relegation out of the Football League - for the first time in Luton Town's 123-year history - is now a distinct possibility even before a ball has been kicked.

In a statement, the FA said, "The Football Association Appeal Board, chaired by Nicholas Stewart QC, today heard an appeal by Luton Town FC against a decision of a Football Association Regulatory Commission in that it imposed upon the Club, in respect of 15 charges of misconduct, an overall sanction of a £50,000 fine, along with a deduction of 10 points to be operative in the 2008-09 season.

The appeal submitted by Luton Town FC was on the following grounds:

1. The Regulatory Commission came to a decision that no reasonable body should have come to (Regulation 1.4(2))
2. The Regulatory Commission imposed an award, order or any other sanction that is excessive (Regulation 1.5(1))

Having considered the submissions by Luton Town FC and The Football Association, the Appeal Board dismissed the appeal and upheld the original Regulatory Commission decision.

The Appeal Board Chairman Nicholas Stewart QC stated that The Regulatory Commission correctly viewed the offences as most serious breaches of The FA rules and regulations. This was particularly the case in relation to payments by Luton Town FC channelled to agents by irregular means through a Company rather than through The FA as the rules required.

The 10-point deduction and the £50,000 fine were expressly stated by the Regulatory Commission to include an element of deterrent, which the Appeal Board endorses.

It is highly unfortunate for Luton Town FC and their loyal fans that shortly after the FA Regulatory Commission reached its decision, the Football League quite separately imposed a 20-point deduction for entirely different actions by Luton Town FC. The Football Association Appeal Board takes the view that the Football League's decision to deduct 20 points was entirely a matter for the Football League.

The FA Regulatory Commission's responsibility was to decide the appropriate punishment for Luton Town's admitted breaches of The FA's own rules and regulations. The deduction of 10 points was a heavy sanction, as it was intended to be, but was not excessive as a reflection of the seriousness of the breaches and the need to deter such conduct within Football Clubs.
Story date: Tuesday, July 15, 2008

TRIALLISTS FAIL TO IMPRESS AS LUTON LOSE AT HITCHIN

A youthful looking Luton Town team packed with triallists were put to the sword by near neighbours Hitchin Town at Top Field on Monday night.

Lethargic Luton were outplayed and outfought throughout and Asa Hall's strike was scant consolation as the Hatters were well beaten by their Southern League opponents.

Luton had their first real effort on four minutes, triallist Andy Taylor letting fly from 25-yards, and Martin Bennett did well to hold on.

The hosts though were lively and competitive throughout the first-half and Jake Howells was at full stretch to clear a dangerous looking free-kick over his own bar three minutes later.

Hitchin though took a richly deserved lead on 11 minutes when Luton keeper Dean Brill misjudged a corner from the left and Paul Barnes was left unmarked to head home from just a couple of yards out.

But Luton levelled with a well-worked goal from former Birmingham City triallist Asa Hall seven minutes later. Dean Morgan combined with Andy Taylor on the right, and Hall headed his cross powerfully home at the near post.

The Canaries almost re-took the lead on 22 minutes when Paul Barnes raced on to a great through-ball, only for Frenchman Nigel Atangana, a triallist from Caen, to put in a brilliant last-ditch saving tackle to deny him.

Dean Morgan's canny cross on 27 minutes was again well taken by Bennett and Hitchin seized the lead seconds later with Paul Barnes' second goal of the game. Derwayne Stupple threaded through a lovely pass and the Hitchin hit man had no hesitation in thrashing the ball past Brill from just inside the box.

And the hosts were unlucky not to stretch their lead soon after when Carl Williams' 30-yard drive was deflected just wide.

With 10 minutes of the half left, Canvey Island triallist Ryan Edgar, a Dominica international midfielder, saw his low shot cause Bennett a few problems, but Hitchin held on to go in 2-1 up at the break.

Brothers Mark and Paul Barnes almost stretched Hitchin's lead early in the second-half, but Brill did well to hold on to Mark's header from point-blank range.

Danish triallist midfielder Jesper Jørgenson, a former Denmark U-20 international, should have levelled on 59 minutes when a deflection sent him clean through, but the Esbjerg fB hit man fired straight at Bennett with the static defence appealing for off-side.

Hitchin twice went close on 63 minutes, but both Dean Gilbert and Russell Ball hitting efforts straight at Brill.

Jørgenson saw a tame effort easily saved on 72 minutes as Luton struggled to create any real opportunities.

And Hitchin wrapped up victory with eight minutes left when substitute Scott Orphanou shrugged off Luton's defence and fired home past the exposed Brill.

Things got even worse for the hapless Hatters with four minutes left when substitute Russell Ball raced clear and his shot squirmed under Brill's grasp as the Southern Premier Division side sealed an emphatic victory.

Luton: Dean Brill, Ashley Deeney, Jake Howells, Asa Hall (Matthew Spring 46), Nigel Atangana (Harry Hogarth, 69), Aswad Thomas, Andy Taylor (Stephen O'Leary 46), Jamie Tolley (Kevin Watson, 46), Jesper Jørgenson, Ryan Edgar (Adam Watkins 69), Dean Morgan (Scott Sinclair, 46). Subs not used: Mark Farthing, Aiden Quinn.

Hitchin: Martin Bennett, Michael Cox, Tom Pepper, Carl Williams, Marcus Gross, Dean Gilbert, Jonathan Woolf, Derwayne Stupple, Paul Barnes, Mark Barnes, Lee Wilson. Subs: Gordon Barr, Ben Windsor, Mark Smith, Matt McArdle, Russell Ball, Scott Orphanou, Graham Clark.

Attendance: 876.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Tuesday, July 15, 2008

LUTON TOWN DEDUCTED A FURTHER 20 POINTS BY THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Luton Town have been handed a further 20-point deduction by the Football League for failing to exit administration in the correct manner via a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) with its creditors.
Coupled with the previous 10-point deduction imposed by the FA in June for financial irregularities, it means the Hatters will start the 2008-09 season in League Two on an unprecedented -30 points.

This has resulted in betting company Ladbrokes giving the Hatters odds of 1/10 on being relegated from the Football League in the forthcoming campaign. Luton Town have never been out of the Football League in their 123-year history.

As well as imposing the points deduction, the Football League have also informed LTFC2020, the consortium aiming to take control at Kenilworth Road, that they must pay a further £500,000 to purchase the club, and must also sign a declaration that states that they cannot appeal against this decision. If LTFC2020 fail to sign this declaration, Luton Town will not be able to compete in the Football League next season and would subsequently go out of business.

Members of the Hatters' prospective new owners, Stephen Browne and Gary Sweet, stated that they had looked into the possibility of being demoted directly to the Blue Square Premier (previously more famously known as the Vauxhall Conference), but the Blue Square Premier does not accept clubs in administration and this was therefore not an option.

They were consequently left in the position of having no option but to agree to the terms set out by the Football League, in order to make sure that professional football could remain at Kenilworth Road.
The Football League released a statement which read, "In the case of Luton Town, the Board considered an application from a new company, called Luton Town 2020, which has applied to join League Two in place of the existing club, which is in administration.

"Luton Town was unable to agree a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) with its creditors and as a consequence is unable to satisfy the normal conditions of the League's insolvency policy for exiting administration. The Board decided, however, that it was prepared to exercise its absolute discretion under its 'exceptional circumstances' provisions in order to accommodate the new entity.

"In accordance with the recent precedent, the Board decided to include the following principle conditions of entry as a pre-requisite to the exercise of that discretion: -

1. The new company (Luton Town 2020) should pay the unsecured creditors the amount offered at the time of the CVA hearing (16 pence in the pound).

2. A 20-point deduction should apply in the 2008-09 season, which also takes into account the fact that this is the club's third insolvency event in the last ten years."

LTFC2020 director Stephen Browne said, "It's quite clear that we made a mistake. We placed our faith in the footballing authorities. We have tried to do everything openly and honestly. We tried to give our best offer from the start. Obviously the very clear message from both the FA and the Football League is that doing such a thing is a total waste of time. Once again, the club suffers from the mismanagement of the past. Once again the faithful supporters are left high and dry. Once again, a policy of honesty is not at all recognised by the football authorities who claim they want to clean up the game. Once again the Football League fail as who was it that cleared the previous owners as 'fit and proper' owners in the first place?

"The Football League had our application at the end of April. They have prevaricated because of the Leeds case (Leeds United were deducted 15 points the previous season by the Football League) and this has caused the administrator costs to rise as he has been managing the clubs business for longer than needed. Even bearing this in mind, the Football League have decided to dictate what should be paid for the football club as it now appears that they are the only people who can set a purchase price for a football club. It's a gun to our heads because we also have to forego our right of appeal; or else we will not be allowed to stay in professional league football.

"It is quite clear to me that to incur significant costs of seeking a CVA, as well as the extra time involved, is something that is a total waste of money. In addition, the Football League are confused - their statement says, "In line with recent precedent" when it was very clear from the Leeds case that the Football League were told NOT to view that outcome as a precedent.

"We have already discussed this internally and have decided unanimously that we will continue the fight by sticking to our principle of openness and honesty. People who should, in theory at least, be protecting supporters and encouraging honesty in the game will not bring us down. They are clearly trying to push Luton Town out of existence for mistakes that they should take part of the blame for. It is obvious that their insolvency policy is in disarray and even after the Leeds case, they are still no nearer bringing their policies in line with UK law. It's not a laughing matter anymore, but even so we will continue to ensure that Luton Town has a solid and sustainable future, despite what the Football League do to us."

Prospective chairman, TV personality Nick Owen, said, "We can't believe the tribunal can be so vindictive. What on earth are they thinking of, trying to destroy us like this?

"I just do not understand. All right, give us some sort of sanction, but 20 points, plus the 10 from the FA, it's just beyond belief. How they think we can survive that, I do not know.

"We knew we would get some sort of points deduction and we were hoping it might have been less than 15. We were even hoping that, if it was 15, it might have been backdated. All this happened last season and we wanted to come out of administration then.

"The League said 'we want to sort out the Leeds situation first' so the fact it was delayed into the summer was not our fault. If it would have been sorted out last season, the extra 15 or 20 points would have been given to us on top of the 10 we'd already got when we went into administration, so it wouldn't have been so bad.

"We're very hopeful that we might get those (the FA agent penalty) points returned to us, so we may only on start minus 20. I say 'only' but that's bad enough - but it's better than minus 30.

"We feel we have a very strong case because these misdemeanors were carried out by people who are absolutely nothing to do with the club now."

However, Luton Town manager Mick Harford has reiterated his commitment to the club saying, "I have always loved this club but, over recent months, I have realised how much more I will love it when LTFC2020 finally take ownership.

"I have a great deal of experience in the game but never before have I been so encouraged and enthusiastic about working in such a strong management team.

"It won't be easy by any means but the team we're building will be strong in character and will rise to the challenge. We have to remain resolute and confident we can retain our long history in the league and I will give that commitment to Luton Town Football Club and our fabulous supporters."
Story date: Monday, July 14, 2008

HATTERS HANDED PLYMOUTH TEST IN CARLING CUP

Luton Town have been drawn at home to Championship side Plymouth Argyle in the Carling Cup First Round.

The Hatters will host Paul Sturrock’s side at Kenilworth Road in the week beginning August 11th 2008.

The full draw for the Carling Cup First Round is: -

Preston v Chesterfield
Chester v Leeds
Leicester v Stockport
Sheff Utd v Port Vale
Grimsby v Tranmere
Crewe v Barnsley
Hartlepool v Scunthorpe
Derby v Lincoln
Notts County v Doncaster
Sheff Wed v Rotherham
Shrewsbury v Carlisle
Wolves v Accrington
Bury v Burnley
Rochdale v Oldham
Nottm Forest v Morecambe
Huddersfield v Bradford
Macclesfield v Blackpool
Walsall v Darlington
Coventry v Aldershot
M K Dons v Norwich
Wycombe v Birmingham
Brighton v Barnet
Gillingham v Colchester
Southend v Cheltenham
Swansea v Brentford
Luton v Plymouth
Exeter v Southampton
Watford v Bristol Rovers
Bournemouth v Cardiff
Bristol City v Peterborough
Charlton v Yeovil
Millwall v Northampton
Swindon v QPR
Crystal Palace v Hereford
Dag & Red v Reading
Ipswich v Leyton Orient
Story date: Friday, June 13, 2008

LTFC2020 CONSORTIUM AWAIT GOLDEN SHARE VERDICT

The LTFC2020 consortium are still awaiting the Football League's decision on the club's application to regain their 'Golden Share' - and the possible further 15 League points deduction.

LTFC202 released the following statement...

"Like all of us at the Club, we are sure you are on tenterhooks waiting for the decision by the Football League concerning the return of our Golden Share.

"At this point we have received no information with regards to either the thinking of the board of the Football League or indeed any pending decision. Obviously we would wish all the members of the Football League board to consider our application in detail and therefore we expected that there was a possibility that we may not hear their decision so promptly. Of course, should they have further questions for us to answer, our response will be quick, open and honest.

"It is very frustrating for all of us, especially in light of the Football Association decision last week. We know that, like us, you would like to have the past dealt swiftly with so that we can move forward and concentrate on what really matters - preparing for next season and developing our plans for Luton Town to be part of the community and supporting youth football.

"As soon as we have some news, we will be sure to share it with all supporters.

"Thank you for standing by us and for all your efforts in helping your club to regain its pride."
Story date: Wednesday, June 11, 2008

PLEDGE YOUR SUPPORT TO THE LUTON TOWN FC FAN FUND

The fans of Luton Town FC would like your help please!

As you are aware the FA this week has handed out a £50k fine and 10 point deduction to the club in respect of the charges brought on the club over 2 years ago.

This action from the FA is a bitter pill to take. The club was already at one of its lowest points in its history with the third administration in recent times, and already we were expecting to have a 15-point deduction on existing administration without a CVA agreement (ala Leeds last season). It now looks as thought we will be facing starting the season on -25 points. This could be further compounded by a transfer embargo being placed on the club until it has vastly reduced its player wage bill down to 60% of our turnover.

All of this had to be faced when none of the original offenders (the previous board members) remain at the club. We will shortly have new reputable owners in the form of LTFC2020. These new owners have come in with a fresh determination and attitude to run the club within its means, openly with the fans, in the correct manor. They already had a very difficult task to get this club back off its knees. The points deduction and fine from the FA has come as a slap in the face to everything they want to achieve.

The treatment of our beloved club has caused much outrage amongst us fans and we wish to make our point known to the FA and the wider football community.

All too often the value of the “little” clubs outside the Premiership is too readily overlooked. The glamour and big money at the top of the game is too big of a draw for the general media to be all that bothered by the constant struggle of the rest of the league just to survive year on year.

To show that we the fans of Luton Town FC stand firm with our club and to attempt to show that we are disgusted with the treatment of the club we are currently taking names on a pledge for the fans to pay the £50k fine. We are trying to get 5000 or more people to each give just £10 (more if they wish) towards a Fan Fund. This money would then be collected and used to pay the fine. Any extra cash would be donated towards local grass roots football.

Please see the wording of the Pledge listed below:

Pledge “LTFC-FAN-FUND”
"I will give £10 (or more) to Luton Town FC as part of a FAN FUND to pay the Fine set by the FA on the Club. but only if 5,000 other Luton Fans will do the same (as long as the Fund is set-up by Til or LLSC)."

More details
£10 in pot for to pay the FA Fine… Lets raise a FANS FUND for the Club

OK here’s the plan so far:
• 5000 or more Luton Fans donate £10 or more if they want to

• Hopefully colleted by LLSC or TiL on our behalf

• The club lobbies the FA to get the Fine and points deduction overturned

• If the FA don’t overturn the Fine then the Fans Fund gets handed over in a very public delivery with Junior Hatters and lots and lots of media attending

• If the FA do overturn the Fine the Fans Fund is donated to local kids teams, helping Grass-Roots

What we need is an official (but independent from the club) way to collect the money and help publicise what we are doing.

To visit the Pledge site follow this link: http://www.en-gb.pledgebank.com/LTFC-FAN-FUND.

There are a number of ways to pledge:

i) Obviously the first is to visit the site above
ii) Seconed by texting ‘pledge LTFC-FAN-FUND’ to 60022 (in the UK only)
iii) Or thirdly by visiting this Facebook page http://apps.facebook.com/pledgebank/LTFC-FAN-FUND

This pledge is at this time a way for fans of Luton or those wishing to support our cause to be listed. The site will not collect money from anyone. Thus once we have hit our target of 5000 people by August 1st, we will need one or all of the supporter groups to step in and collect the cash.

It is hoped the supporter group will be able to do this, so that anyone pledging knows that once they are asked to part with their cash it is to a trusted organisation and they can be sure their cash will go to the right place.

What we the fans need from you is any help you can give us to get this link and the information about what we are trying to do to the public and our fellow fans.

Please can you help us circulate all this information and promote the plight of the club and lobby the FA to correct this ludicrous situation!

Many Thanks for your time and any help you can give!

Andrew Coleman – A Luton Town FC Fan
andy@apc-it.co.uk
http://www.en-gb.pledgebank.com/LTFC-FAN-FUND
Story date: Friday, June 6, 2008

LUTON TOWN DEDUCTED 10 POINTS BY FA

Luton Town Football Club have been fined £50,000 and deducted 10 League points by the FA for the start of the 2008-09 season for the financial irregularities at the club under the former owners Jayten Stadium Ltd.

The Hatters have been found guilty of 15 charges of misconduct, concerning payments to agents.

The Regulatory Commission found the club guilty of paying agents via a third party but not of paying bungs.

Former chairman Bill Tomlins has been banned from football for five years and fined £15,000.

Three other ex-directors have also been punished and six agents warned. Derek Peter was fined £3,750 and a one-year ban from football. Richard Bagehot was fined £750 and John Mitchell £250.

The agents concerned, namely Andrew Mills, Skylet Andrew, Steven Denos, Mike Berry, David Manasseh and Mark Curtis, in respect of a single charge which each faced of failing to have in place a written representation contract with Luton Town Football Club, have each received the sanction of a warning as to their future conduct.

It represents the worst-case scenario for Luton Town and the decision is a huge shock and comes as a massive blow for Hatters fans, especially considering former Chairman Bill Tomlins and the Directors Derek Peter, Richard Bagehot and John Mitchell escaped with minimal fines.

It also seems so unfair on Luton supporters – how many more times are we going to be punished? Not only have we had to contend with selling over £14million worth of players in 2-and-a-half-years, three different managers, a 10-point deduction last season and two successive relegations, we now also have to accept that we could even lose our status as a Football League club – with a further 15 points deduction highly possible for the start of next season for failing to pay a large debt owed to HM Revenue & Customs.

Like Leeds United, the Hatters could also be punished with a 15-point deduction – making it a total of 25 points deducted for the start of next season’s League Two campaign – a huge tally for the Hatters to overcome.

LTFC2020 Ltd, the new owners of Luton Town Football Club, were as stunned as anyone, and have released the following statement: -

“Firstly we think that the Football Association is completely correct to show the football world that the type of behaviour demonstrated by the past management of this club is totally unacceptable.

”econdly, we would like to reiterate that these findings relate only to past directors of Luton Town Football Club and not anyone related to, or part of LTFC2020 who have a completely new vision for the club and a policy of openness, transparency and honesty.

”Thirdly, this decision makes no difference to our commitment to being the next custodians of the club, and all of us on the LTFC2020 board are completely behind the plans we have previously placed in front of fans. Of course the size of this fine and points deduction will affect the timing of some ideas we were hoping to implement sooner rather than later, but the plans Mick Harford has for squad regeneration are completely unaffected.

”Regarding the decision today, we are very disappointed that the FA has not been able to take into account the current plight of the club and the fact that it is soon to be under new ownership. To punish the club and the fans in the future with a points deduction, when the perpetrators get away with just light fines is hugely disappointing.

”The scale of the points deduction is unbelievable when it is completely clear that the people found guilty are no longer at the club. Who, exactly, does the FA think they are punishing? Bearing in mind it was employees at the club that presented the FA with the concerns in the first place, you have to question whether the honesty of employees is valued at all by the FA. Unfortunately, rather than the perpetrators being punished in any meaningful way, it is again the fans that take the punishment for the wrongdoing of directors. We call on the FA to amend their rules so that directors of all clubs make personal indemnities for their actions – after all this is quite a normal scenario in the business world outside football, so why not in football itself? Then, blatant mismanagement, irresponsible behaviour, bending and breaking of the rules and questionable dealings will be minimised. If football really wants to clean up its act, it’s not beyond the wit of man to find a way.

”We think that these findings prove yet again that the concerns raised by ourselves, fans and the supporter groups during 2007 were indeed correct. Probity of directors is vital in any company and it is very disappointing that previous directors saw fit to bend rules to their own advantage. We were told that it was nothing to worry about, ‘A storm in a teacup’ was the exact phrase. Then there was silence when searching questions were asked by us, the fans and the BBC. Comments like this show just how incompetent the previous ownership was and this has resulted in very dark days for our great club, let alone the damage to our reputation throughout the world of sport.

”Whilst some may say that they didn’t know the extent of the wrongdoing that has taken place, it was well publicised in the press, it led to the very public dismissal of a successful manager, and if that is the excuse previous directors rely on, it shows how out of touch they were with not only the running of the club, but their fellow directors, and most importantly also the contempt they showed to the great institution they were in charge of.

”The FA has to take some blame in this. They still have to explain why they did not act the previous year when the allegations were first made? This hardly shows commitment to ‘cleaning up football’ so the media should ask them why they believed inaction at that time was the right thing to do. Someone at the FA must be held accountable rather than sweeping it under the carpet at the expense of fans.

”One good thing has come out of this – the exoneration of Mike Newell and the staff who told the FA of the very real concerns they had. We applaud them for taking the risk with their own jobs for exposing these actions. Without them, who knows how far it would have gone and what situation our club would now find itself in. It was a sorry day for our club with the media circus surrounding Mike Newell’s sacking and now we find out that it appears this happened in a vain attempt to save the skin of directors who knew full well that they were doing wrong.

”This judgement in no way affects our commitment to the club. This club has had years of mismanagement and we are here to put an end to it. Openness, honesty and transparency are cornerstones of LTFC2020 and anyone who wishes to be associated with us.

”We call on all fans to remain strong. We knew things would get worse before they got better. We have always known the club needs the full support of all fans to get through these very dark days. Next season, we need everyone to do their bit, however small, for the club they love. We need all fans to spread the word that the past decade has been the exception and not the norm. We need all fans to encourage their kids, come to games and support their club. We need all fans to be exactly what they have always been fantastic at; being the best ambassadors that any custodian could wish for.

”The FA inquiry is one of the factors that have been hanging over the head of fans and the club. It is one of the final echoes of the past to be resolved. We still have the Football League decision to come, and we will deal with that professionally too. Then we can put the disaster of the previous management to bed, a tenure that has bought he club to its’ knees, and focus solely on the future. We at LTFC2020 will do our absolute best, we will stabilise the club and we will give the fans a club to be proud of again. We have a long way to go to get the heart back into Luton Town. But the pulse is beating. And it’s getting stronger everyday!

”Keep the faith, we are proud of you all for standing firm and strong.

LTFC2020 Ltd”

Luton Town manager Mick Harford has stated that the club are likely to appeal against the decision – but any appeal will have to be funded by the LTFC2020 consortium.
Story date: Wednesday, June 4, 2008

FA DECISION SET TO BE REVEALED

An FA decision on the financial irregularities at Kenilworth Road is imminent.

England's football governing body are expected to announce what sanctions they will take against the Hatters and other implicated parties, if any, at 4pm today (Wednesday).

Legal representatives of Luton Town will be present for a final meeting at Soho Square on the day.

The Hatters faced an unprecedented 55 disciplinary charges based on payments made by the club.

Luton faced allegations that they broke FA rules in the way that they paid money to agents in transfer deals. Four former directors and six agents were charged in November and all parties will learn their fate when they attend the FA's headquarters in Central London this afternoon.

The club could be fined and given a transfer window embargo after admitting 17 charges. The former directors face a ban from working in football. The agents are expected to be fined but are unlikely to have their licences revoked while Luton hope that the FA will be lenient on the club after Cherry Newbery, the club secretary, blew the whistle on directors and the club co-operated in the matter.

Bill Tomlins, the former chairman who refused to be part of the inquiry, will not attend. He argued that the inquiry had no jurisdiction. The agents charged are Sky Andrew, Mark Curtis, Stephen Denos, David Manasseh, Andrew Mills and Mike Berry.
Story date: Wednesday, June 4, 2008

THE 2020 MISSION: AN UPDATE

Below is an update from the 2020 consortium...

As it has been said many times, the events of the past twelve months have been a traumatic experience for us all. We are now nearing the end of the process and we hope to come out of administration very soon. We at LTFC2020 would like to take this opportunity to update all fans on what has happened and where we stand today.

The story so far?..

We were selected as the preferred bidder back in January 2008 and were advised by the Football League that their priority at that time was to resolve the Leeds United situation. In January we were the only club in administration, but it was widely speculated that more clubs were on the verge of financial difficulties too. Therefore, the Football League's position was completely understandable due to the impact that their decision would have for not only us, but potentially other clubs too. However, we still had a process to follow under UK law where we needed to propose a Creditors Voluntary Agreement (CVA) in order to settle past debts and release us from the constraints of administration.

The process of proposing and seeking approval for a CVA has to be done within strict timeframes set in law, and creditors have to be given specific periods of time to consider the proposal. These deadlines were followed precisely and this culminated in the CVA being rejected in early April. The creditors actually had a 28-day period in order to raise any objections. We thank Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for making an instant decision as they could have delayed the whole process by utilising this timescale to the full, as they did with Leeds United. We had spoken to them on a number of occasions and explained that a delay in a decision would affect the club on a financial basis and bring further uncertainty for fans, staff and the future of the club. Therefore their swift rejection of the proposal was appreciated by all concerned as it allowed us to move forward as quickly as possible.

Following the rejection of the CVA, LTFC2020 has made our application to the Football League to exit administration without a CVA under their 'Exceptional Circumstances' procedure. This now infamous term was the procedure followed by Leeds United and resulted in a further 15-point deduction for them. Our completed application reached the Football League before the verdict of the arbitration panel into the Leeds United case was announced. Consequently we are now liaising with the Football League on the final stages of the administration process. This is known as 'regaining our Golden Share'. The Golden Share is the mandate to play professional football and be a member of the Football League, and is withdrawn the moment a club enters administration.

Our application has been seen by the Football Association and discussed with the Bedfordshire Football Association - both of whom have a right of veto over our application for the Golden Share. We are delighted to announce that both associations fully support our application to become members of the Football League again.

It is also important to note that in making our application we have to prove beyond doubt that we have the necessary funds to take the club forward. Again, we are pleased to announce that we have done this to the satisfaction of the administrator, lawyers and accountants. This is in addition to the significant funds already given to the club by LTFC2020 in January and February 2008 to secure our immediate future and stop forced player sales.

It is frustrating for everyone that we cannot move faster. However, we have to deal with the situation in the best way possible, so we do call for your patience as we finalise all the details with the Football League. You can be assured that we will do everything properly and with the sole intention of achieving the best outcome for Luton Town Football Club.

So, what's next?

The close season will be a crucial time for Luton Town. Upon regaining our Golden Share our first priority is to stabilise the finances and dramatically reduce the monthly losses. This will be done through a combination of minimising costs whilst maximising income. Obviously the purchasing of season tickets is vital to the future of the club.

We also need to regenerate the team. A highlight of 2008 has been the emergence of talented youth players. However, our wage bill is totally unsustainable and without players compromising on their contracts this will inevitably mean that some players will leave the club and contracts will not be renewed. To those that do leave, we thank them for their service and wish them well. For those that stay, we are delighted that Mick has chosen to build a new, exciting team around them and we can assure them that the future looks very bright indeed. We have a long journey ahead but we are delighted that they will be part of it.

We also plan to make a number of changes to improve the matchday experience for all. Some of these changes will take time, but as soon as we know when we are likely to complete the takeover from the administrator, we will announce a new ticket structure throughout the ground and improved hospitality packages. We are excited by our plans and, whilst we are not quite able to publicise our plans, we can say that pricing in all parts of the ground will be more equitable than past seasons whilst sticking to our known objective of attracting youngsters to our club.

Once we have secured the financial future of the club and regenerated the squad, we will then turn our attention to a subject that has been debated for over 50 years - a new stadium. We have committed to undertake an independent feasibility study of all possible options in and around Luton. This is the first time in our history that such a study will take place. This will provide us with the platform to decide the best new home for us, not just in the short term, but also for the next 123 years. We are fully aware of the current planning landscape and the timescales being worked to by local councils and national Government, and our study will comply with these deadlines.

Who are LTFC2020?

Luton Town Football Club 2020 Ltd (LTFC2020) is a company with a vision for the future of our great football club. After 123 years of history, we face a crossroads: to grow and modernise, or become a small club in the lower leagues. After two decades of boardroom and financial instability, we believe that there is only one choice - to grow and take our proper place in the football world.

To achieve this we have a plan called the '2020 Mission'. A clear, twelve year plan covering all aspects of our club - youth, community, finances, stadium, players and staff. The opportunity to complete Phase One of this plan has been given to us by the generosity of our investors. Investors that are all truly lifelong Hatters' fans. Investors that are all successful businessmen in their own right. Investors that were born and bred in the area. Investors that have all committed substantial funds - not loans or credit notes or debentures, but proper, real cash. For this we will be eternally grateful.

LTFC2020 is made up of three sets of people:

The Operational Board - the people who will run the club on a day-to-day basis. They are employees who have targets to achieve, and if they fail, they can be replaced (without a change in ownership of the club).
The Investment Board - the people who have invested money, who appoint members of the Operational Board, and play a vital role in the overall long-term direction of the club.
The Advisory Board - people who have agreed to provide support as and when needed.

At the moment, the Operational Board is made up by Nick Owen, chairman; Gary Sweet, managing director; and Stephen Browne, director. They are supported by managers Pat Thomas and Anna Coultas. Once LTFC2020 are officially confirmed as the custodians of the club, this board will be strengthened as circumstances dictate and will integrate the current remaining staff into the operation.

The Investment Board includes Bob Curson, Godfrey Ingram and Mick Pattinson. Steve Foster has also availed monies to us in order to develop talent. There are also two further investors on the Investment Board who wish to remain anonymous at present - not for any dubious reason but simply because they are normal fans like us, who sit in the Kenny, want to keep their privacy, and really do not wish to court appreciation or plaudits. We can assure you that the identities of these people are known and approved by all the investors, the Operational Board, the Football League, the Football Association and all associated lawyers and accountants.

Finally, there is the Advisory Board. This consists of people such as Mike Roberts, Keith Harris ('Mr Football'), Antony Brown, Tenon Accountants, and lastly but by no means least, the fans via the supporters' groups. Trust in Luton have been reserved a shareholding in LTFC2020 Ltd (with the option of buying further shares). Luton Town Supporters Club and Loyal Luton Supporters Club will also provide advice and support to help deliver the great future we have planned.

So, what's the plan?

All of our actions are covered by what we call the 'Cornerstones'. These are the principles that we want the club to operate under. They are:

To exercise business transparency and practise an appropriate level of corporate governance.
To encourage valuable investment with football and community as the investors' primary motivation.
To successfully balance sporting success and ambition with prudent financial management.
To fully engage with the fanbase to ensure that both parties move in the same, positive direction.
To support the town and broader community with a focal point of pride and a facility that is accessible to all.
To breed an entertaining, exciting, passionate and fair company culture synonymous with a sporting business.

By adhering to these cornerstones we can ensure that we deliver our plans in the core areas of:

Footballing success
Youth development
Being an important part of the community
Financial management and 'living within our means'
Relocation to a new stadium
Ensuring the club is never controlled by one individual, and is never again subject to a change in one person's circumstances
Giving all fans the opportunity to own a part of the club via Trust in Luton
Increasing the fanbase via rebuilding trust in the club and a campaign to continually attract youngsters

Over the course of the coming seasons we will communicate with you on our progress. We will continue to communicate through the matchday programme, Three Counties Radio, the Luton News and Beds on Sunday series, along with all other local media. We will also be building a database so we can have more direct and immediate communication through emails and text messages. We also know that it is vital to communicate and inform 'exiled Hatters' - those people who are unable to attend games, who live outside the immediate area, or live abroad.

We have set tough but achievable targets. However, we also need your support. We need you to 'spread the word' and we need to encourage as much income as possible. To do our best, we have to achieve higher attendances and make it easier and more attractive for you to part with your hard earned cash on merchandise, food, drink, sponsorships, programmes and hospitality.

We know there is a mountain to climb, but we are looking forward to the challenges ahead. It must be remembered that we only formed LTFC2020 Ltd some 20 weeks ago and look how far we have come in that short time!

A word of thanks

Last, but by no means least, we would like to thank a number of people who have played a role in events as they have unravelled.

The staff have been in this situation before, but that still does not make it any easier for them to deal with events. Throughout the past few months, along with departures of colleagues from the Club, they have remained stoic and committed in ensuring that the football club has run as smoothly as possible. For them times have been very uncertain, not knowing if the club would survive this latest administration. All of us as fans and members of 2020 should thank them for their efforts in the most trying of circumstances.

Many suppliers and creditors have also stood by the Club. At the recent creditors meeting in London it should be noted that every creditor present voted in favour of the LTFC2020 CVA proposal. In addition, many suppliers owed money have continued to provide the club with their services to ensure that the matchday experience has not significantly suffered.

We also thank the supporters' groups who have been totally behind our plans since we were able to reveal them, way back in December 2007. We have kept them all fully updated and they are ensuring their members are aware of the difficult times we face and the journey ahead. We urge you to join at least one of the groups so that you can play your role in the successes to come.

We would like to thank Luton Borough Council and the Mayor for their support in ensuring that Luton has a football club. Some may think that they have been quiet over the last year when in fact they have undertaken a significant amount of work behind the scenes. We commit to making our club one to be proud of for the community of Luton, Bedfordshire and surrounding counties. With their continued support we will identify and build a new home for the Hatters. MPs from across the county have also helped in lobbying the Government, HMRC and the Football League. Again, unity in this area has been vital to convince people that we mean business.

Finally, the biggest thanks of all goes to you - the true fans of Luton Town. You have stuck by the team through two very difficult decades and you deserve so much better. This club is nothing without you. You are the club. On behalf of LTFC2020, Mick, Warren, the staff and players, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

The future starts today

Our club may have recently been in the worst state in its history, but we are optimistic and buoyant. The mission ahead is clear but we will face many challenges before we achieve success. We will regain our place in English football providing we all work together towards the same goal.

Many legends have graced our halls, stands and pitch.
With your support and unity we will put the heart back into our club.
Story date: Wednesday, May 14, 2008

LUTON LEGENDS BEAT ARSENAL XI TO LIFT THE CUP (AGAIN!)

A Luton Town Legends side defeated an Arsenal XI 2-1 at Kenilworth Road in a highly entertaining match to mark the 20th anniversary of the Hatters’ famous 3-2 win over the Gunners at Wembley in the 1988 Littlewoods Cup final.

In front of an attendance of over 4,500 people (which also included Arsenal legend and now TV presenter Ian Wright), Luton legends like Mick Harford, Ricky Hill, Tim Breacker, Scott Oakes, Marvin Johnson, Kingsley Black and David Oldfield featured amongst others – all of whom rightly deserve their status as a Luton legend. Perhaps the two most surprising aspects of the day were substitute appearances by Kevin Nicholls and Tony Thorpe. With Nicholls still contracted to Preston North End, it was a shock to say the least to many Hatters fans to see him enter the fray in his usual central midfield role. It has certainly left many Luton supporters wondering whether he’ll be returning to Kenilworth Road. It was also rumoured that he stated at the end of the clash that it “was not his last game for Luton” and that he “really hopes he’s coming back.”

When asked officially by journalists on the chances of a return to Kenilworth Road, Nicholls said, "You never know do you. I had six fantastic years here but for now I'm a Preston player and thankfully they let me play here today.

"Luton is a fantastic club. I adore the fans and they've been fantastic to me. They were a big part of why I was so successful as a player here, I can't speak highly enough of them. It was good to run out at Kenilworth Road again."

Nicholls also had a word of praise for current Luton boss Mick Harford, saying, "I was at Luton with him under Joe Kinnear and he was fantastic. Obviously it's been a very unfortunate time with two relegations but I think he's the right man to take the club forward. He'll bring his own players in and I believe they'll be ready for next season and I hope they have a fantastic campaign."

Harford has already stated that he has a hit-list of players he would like to bring to Luton when the shackles of administration are off but he wouldn't be drawn on whether Nicholls is a name that occupies his thinking.

"He wanted to come and play in the game," said the manager. "He got permission from Preston and he showed what a good footballer he is. The game had a slow tempo but his touch was very good and I'm just delighted to see him again."

The most pleasing aspect of the day was that the proceeds from the event went to charity and four charities will be donated money to the tune of five figures each - a tremendous achievement.

The family of Luton legend David Preece, who sadly passed away, were also in attendance and it was a fitting moment when at half-time, the club announced that the New Stand (Family Stand) would be renamed "The David Preece Stand" from now on.

Like David "Mini" Preece, it was also good to remember other legends from the 1988 Cup final squad who are no longer with us - goalkeeper Les Sealey, manager Ray Harford and Arsenal's David Rocastle.

In addition, the appearance of Tony Thorpe – who left to join Queen’s Park Rangers under highly controversial circumstances in 2003 – was also seen as somewhat of a surprise. After initially being booed on entering the action, the groans quickly faded and Thorpe looked every bit the great player he was, his quick feet causing the Arsenal defence all sorts of problems. With his family in the crowd, it was good to see that perhaps what happened can now finally stay in the past. After all, there can be no question that Thorpe is a Luton legend – he is the only Luton player EVER to top the professional scoring league for the whole of Europe when he scored over 30 goals in 1996.

As well as 1988 heroes Steve Foster, Darron McDonough (who didn’t actually feature in the match due to neck and ankle injuries respectively, but were both in attendance), David Oldfield, Mick Harford, Ricky Hill, Rob Johnson, Kingsley Black, Mark Stein and Tim Breacker, other Luton legends were also in attendance – from 1990s heroes like Scott Oakes, Phil Gray, Julian James and John Dreyer – to older stars like Godfrey Ingram, Mitchell Thomas and Wayne Turner.

Luton triumphed with goals from Mark Stein and David Oldfield as the Luton Legends rolled back the years.

Wayne Turner fired in a volley after just two minutes, while Rob Johnson should have given the Hatters the lead on five minutes, but he couldn't quite force Scott Oakes' near post cross home.

Kingsley Black's floated ball into the box picked out Ricky Hill at the far post seconds later, but the skilful midfielder could only head just wide.

The high temperatures, coupled with the players' ageing limbs, meant the pace of the game was slow, but the class and skill of the ‘88 team was clear for all to see.

Luton again went close on nine minutes when Black's curving cross was spooned goal wards by Mark Stein, but the ball bounced off the top of the bar and behind for a goal-kick.

However, Arsenal took the lead against the run of play on 12 minutes when Dimitri Kharine was left completely exposed and Giles Alderson was left in acres of space to tap home at the far post.

The Hatters should have been level seconds later. Some Stein magic on the right completely opened up the visiting defence but Mick Harford’s shot deflected off the left-hand upright and behind.

The Luton Legends, though, deservedly levelled after a quarter of an hour as Mitchell Thomas' through ball picked out Stein, and his curling finish from the edge of the box beat Vince Bartram and rebounded off the left-hand post and in.

Bartram produced a decent stop low to his left to deny Stein on 22 minutes, after a good break by Tim Breacker, before former Luton skipper Kevin Nicholls made a surprise appearance as a 32nd minute substitute, fuelling the rumours that he could be set for a return to Kenilworth Road in the summer.

Kingsley Black produced some more magic four minutes later to waltz through the Arsenal defence, but could only blaze his shot over from just inside the box.

A mazy Marvin Johnson run almost opened up the visitors on 41 minutes, but he could only fizz a wayward effort well wide, before the classic rendition of “Marvin For England” was heard from the stands!

Arsenal crashed an effort against the left-hand upright with two minutes of the half left, but both sets of red-faced players were relieved to hear the referee's half-time whistle.

John Dreyer, Phil Gray, David Oldfield, Godfrey Ingram and Tony Thorpe were all given run outs for Luton, with the latter initially generating a chorus of boos from the Kenilworth Road faithful.

Julian James was introduced in place of Thomas on 55 minutes, while Nicholls' floated effort seconds later was headed behind.

2020 director Godfrey Ingram and youth team product Edward Asafu-Adjaye provided some fresh legs for the Hatters, while Oldfield lashed an effort over the bar on 57 minutes.

The heat began to take its toll in the second-half, with both sides struggling to break out of a canter.

Thorpe almost scored a brilliant individual goal with 13 minutes left. Having weaved Arsenal's defence into a knot, Bartram got down well to deny the evergreen striker, with Ingram just unable to pounce on the rebound.

The game suddenly burst into life with 10 minutes left when Thorpe's delightful through ball sent Oldfield clear. Having rounded Bartram, Oldfield was felled in the box and the referee had no hesitation pointing to the sport.

Bartram may have saved John Dreyer’s trademark two-step penalty, but Oldfield was on hand to slide the ball home.

Typically nervy Luton just about managed to hold out in the closing moments to claim another memorable victory over their illustrious London rivals and lift the cup (again!).

Luton’s starting line-up was: -

Dimitri Kharine
Tim Breacker (Kingsley Black (came back on), 79)
Marvin Johnson (Edward Asafu-Adjaye, 63)
Mitchell Thomas (Julian James, 45)
Rob Johnson (George Beavan, 69)
Scott Oakes (Godfrey Ingram, 53)
Wayne Turner (Kevin Nicholls, 40)
Ricky Hill (John Dreyer, 42)
Kingsley Black (Tony Thorpe, 53)
Mick Harford (Phil Gray, 47)
Mark Stein (David Oldfield, 47)

Also in attendance: -
Steve Foster
Darron McDonough

The Arsenal side included former Gunners players Vince Bartram, Andy Linighan and Eddie McGoldrick, as well as actors Robbie Gee (star of 'the Desmonds' and Guy Ritchie film 'Snatch') and Ralf Little (who plays Anthony in 'The Royle Family'.

Luton legend Ricky Hill said after the match, "It's lovely to be back. It's heart-warming to come back and it's nice that the fans showed me a lot of love. I'm very appreciative and I'm glad that I could be here to be part of the day.

"It's another generation, maybe even two, from when I was playing. I started my career here in 1975 but it seems like the memories have been passed on by parents and grandparents.

"It's nice to see the young kids out there supporting the club and coming to support the cause.

"It's good to see my old team mates. We don't see enough of each other really. From time to time we get together for a reunion every couple of years. People are in different parts of England, some are out of England but when we get back together there's a common bond like we've never been away. It's an uncanny football thing, it's a dressing room thing where you just pick up where you left off five, maybe 15 years ago.

"I can only wish the club and the supporters every success.

"Ever since I've been associated with this club there have always been ups and downs. I remember back in 1975 they had to sell Peter Anderson to stop from going into liquidation. Luton Town have always survived and I believe they will continue to do so and hopefully they can thrive again."

Meanwhile, wing wizard Kingsley Black, who looked in top condition and impressed throughout the match, said, "I'm a Luton Town fan so I'm hoping we can build from now on and I think there will be some good times ahead.

"I think you have people in charge who have Luton Town Football Club at heart and that bodes well.

"Today was a magnificent occasion and, certainly for me, it brought back memories. It was just nice that we marked the 20 year anniversary with something for charity."

Striker Mick Harford - voted as Luton's best-ever player - said, "The day went very well, there was a fantastic crowd and a feel-good factor with the fans turning out in their thousands. I'd just like to say a big thank you to them.

"They (the fans) are the most important people at the Football Club. Without the supporters we wouldn't survive.

"There was a great turn out from the lads. Obviously some people couldn't make it and Fozzy (Steve Foster) and Darron McDonough couldn't play because they've go injuries but it was a great day.

"Of course I miss playing still but the legs won't work anymore. The mind still works but the legs can't carry me. It seemed a bit strange to be on a big pitch again but I thoroughly enjoyed it."
Story date: Sunday, May 11, 2008

HATTERS BOSS HARFORD BEGINS PLAYER CULL

Luton Town manager Mick Harford has today begun his cull of the Hatters squad by giving free transfers to veteran duo Don Hutchison and Paul Peschisolido and offering free transfers to six more first-team players.

The imminent departures of veteran duo Hutchison and Peschisolido comes as no great surprise, with Hutchison stating a few weeks ago that he had been informed by Harford he would not be offered a new contract, while Peschisolido has been out injured for almost the entire season, having played just a handful of games for the Hatters.

However, the other six players are all still under contract to the Hatters, and so cannot be released but have, instead, been offered free transfers if any clubs wish to sign them. The six offered free transfers are: -

Marlon Beresford
Steve Robinson
Paul McVeigh
Alan Goodall
Richard Jackson
Darren Currie

McVeigh, Currie, Goodall and Jackson were all signed just a year ago by former manager Kevin Blackwell, but they have all disappointed greatly and arguably contributed to Luton Town’s dreadful season, which has culminated in a second successive relegation.

Veteran duo Beresford and Robinson were signed by former boss Mike Newell and both played a huge part in Luton’s 2004-05 League One title-winning season. However, they have since struggled and, with age against them, Harford has decided to deem them surplus to requirements.

Speaking today, Harford said, “Although not an exhaustive list, these are our first significant moves in the regeneration of the squad for next season. We need to reduce numbers in order for us to introduce new talent once 2020 complete the takeover.

"We would like to thank each and every one of the players for their service at the club and wish these players all the very best for the future.”

The futures of the other Hatters players out-of-contract this summer – skipper Keith Keane, veteran forward Paul Furlong and midfielder Richard Langley – have yet to be resolved and it remains to be seen whether they will be a part of Luton’s League Two promotion push for next season.
Story date: Thursday, May 1, 2008

BRILL HEROICS CAN'T PREVENT LUTON LOSING AGAIN

Lacklustre Luton Town turned in their most abject performance of the season as they surrendered 0-2 in South Yorkshire against promotion hopefuls Doncaster Rovers.

Only a series of fine stops from keeper Dean Brill kept the score down as the Hatters' number one was left exposed time and again by his anonymous teammates.

Goals in each half from Matthew Mills and Mark McCammon sealed victory for the hosts who dominated from start to finish.

Hatters manager Mick Harford named an unchanged side from the one that lost 0-1 at Nottingham Forest the week before for Luton's first-ever visit to the Keepmoat Stadium against high-flying Doncaster Rovers.

Rovers should have taken the lead as early as the second minute when Paul Green cut in from the right and flashed a fierce cross/shot across the goal, but McCammon was caught flat-footed at the far post and was unable to turn the ball home.

McCammon almost ran beyond Luton's defence soon after, before Brill pulled off two great saves to deny Mills as Donny ran riot. On five minutes Mills saw Brill turn his shot, from a near post corner, over the bar, before the Luton stopper produced a phenomenal save seconds later to turn his header, bound for the top right-hand corner, just past the mark.

The hosts continued to press and struggling Luton could barely get a touch against their classy opponents. Brill did well to palm away James Coppinger's ninth minute effort, before getting down to gather Gareth Roberts' low drive two minutes later.

Things were so easy for Rovers it almost seemed like the hosts were enjoying a summer's training session against lacklustre Luton.

Donny continued to dominate and twice went close on 16 minutes. A deep free-kick was headed back across goal and Brill missed his punch as he challenged McCammon at the front post, but Lewis Emanuel was on hand to head ball of the line. His clearance fell straight to Sam Hird and, with the goal at his mercy, he fired straight at Don Hutchison who deflected his effort off the line.

Luton were struggling to get the ball out of their own half, but Rovers just could not find the killer touch despite creating stacks of chances.

A long ball over the top sent Gareth Taylor clear on 20 minutes, but Brill produced yet another good stop low to his left, with Coppinger firing the follow-up wide.

Luton finally had a slice of luck on 28 minutes when Matthew Spring only received a yellow card for a two-footed lunge on Coppinger as the visitors continued to be outclassed.

And Rovers finally broke the deadlock on 34 minutes when Brian Stock's corner was headed goal wards by McCammon. Brill once again produced a great stooping stop, but Mills was on hand to roll the ball home from close range.

But Luton should have been level just three minutes later with their first effort of the afternoon. Stephen O'Leary produced some good work to find Sam Parkin on the left. Neil Sullivan misjudged the striker's cross, but Darren Currie could only head wastefully wide at the far post.

Donny continued to enjoy the better of the game after the break and should have doubled their lead on 54 minutes. A short corner routine allowed Paul Green acres of space in Luton's box, but he fired into the side-netting with only Brill to beat.

Luton, though, were showing far more heart and composure in the second-half, but could only manage a wayward Spring effort on the hour after some good possession on the edge of Rovers' box.

At the other end, Brill produced an outstanding one-handed save to deny McCammon, after a long throw had been allowed to bounce across the six-yard box.

Luton almost conjured a goal out of nothing with 14 minutes left when Doncaster were unable to properly clear Emanuel's header across goal. The ball fell to Currie and substitute Jason Price threw himself in the way to deflect the ball past the post.

The Hatters finally registered their first shot of the afternoon on target a minute later. Parkin did well to feed Spring on the edge of the area, but his well-struck shot was straight at Sullivan.

Stuart Elliott almost scored a superb second for Rovers with 10 minutes left. Having skipped past Edward Asafu-Adjaye, his exquisite chip flew over the motionless Brill and on to the roof of the net

And Rovers made sure of victory with their second goal on 81 minutes. Doncaster whipped a free-kick into Luton's box and McCammon rose highest to plant his header into the bottom right-hand corner of the net.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Sunday, April 27, 2008

HATTERS WINGER BELL MAKES LEICESTER MOVE

Luton Town winger David Bell has joined Championship side Leicester City on loan until the end of the season, with the view to making a permanent move to the Walkers Stadium.

Bell, who joined the Hatters from Rushden & Diamonds for £100,000 in January 2006, made 87 appearances during his time at Kenilworth Road, scoring 8 goals, and he links up with former Hatter Steve Howard at Ian Holloway’s side.

Hatters manager Mick Harford said, “It’s potentially a great opportunity for David, a great deal for both clubs and one that we could not refuse.”

His transfer follows defender Chris Perry’s loan move to Southampton until the end of the season, and the extension of Dean Morgan’s loan to Crewe Alexandra until the end of the campaign as Harford begins his rebuilding process.

Meanwhile, 19-year-old defender Edward Asafu-Adjaye has been recalled from his loan spell with non-league side Salisbury City, and he goes straight into the Hatters’ squad for Saturday’s home match with Crewe Alexandra. Young midfielder Robert Sinclair, also on-loan at Salisbury City, has had his loan spell extended until the end of the season.
Story date: Friday, March 28, 2008

HARFORD LOANS PERRY TO SOUTHAMPTON

Luton Town defender Chris Perry has joined Championship side Southampton on loan until the end of the season.

Perry, 34, joined the Hatters on a free transfer from West Bromwich Albion during the summer, and with Luton battling against relegation, and Perry the club’s only real recognised central defender, the move is somewhat of a surprise.

However, Perry has come in for criticism from Hatters fans for his alleged poor attitude, with rumours that he claimed he was “too tired” to play! This is, of course, only a rumour we stress!

Perry has made 42 appearances in all competitions for Luton Town this season.

Meanwhile, winger Dean Morgan has extended his loan spell with Crewe Alexandra until the end of the season, but he will not be allowed to play when the Railwaymen visit Kenilworth Road this coming Saturday.
Story date: Thursday, March 27, 2008

FORMER HATTERS STRIKER THORPE INTERVIEWS NICK OWEN

Former Luton Town striker Tony Thorpe has conducted an exclusive interview with prospective Hatters Chairman Nick Owen.

The interview is part of the excellent site Soccer X.

You can see the full interview by clicking HERE.
Story date: Sunday, March 9, 2008

LTFC2020 TAKE CONTROL OF LUTON TOWN!

Luton Town Football Club have new owners tonight after the LTFC2020 consortium officially took control of the Hatters.

The consortium is fronted by TV presenter Nick Owen and includes for Hatters players Godfrey Ingram and Steve Foster, Hatters fan Gary Sweet and businessman Stephen Browne.

They have also apparently confirmed that Mick Harford will continue as the Luton Town manager next season and will have money available to purchase new players during the summer.

Story date: Tuesday, February 26, 2008

FORMER HATTERS STRIKER HARTSON RETIRES

Former Luton Town striker John Hartson has announced that he is to retire from professional football.

The 32-year-old striker, who was released by West Bromwich Albion last month, made the decision after admitting he had lost his enthusiasm for the game.

He said: "A part of my life has been winding down and, yes, I'm going to miss that competitive edge.

"I'm not going to miss training though. To be honest I'd lost my desire to get back into the West Brom side.

"Gordon (Strachan) warned me that the fire inside me would go some day and now it has."

Hatrson made his name at Kenilworth Road before joining Arsenal in 1995.

After leaving Highbury, he played for West Ham, Wimbledon and Coventry before heading north to join Celtic before his final port of call at The Hawthorns.

Hartson also played 50 times for Wales, scoring 14 times.

Source: Lutontoday.co.uk
Story date: Thursday, February 7, 2008

LTFC2020 BID REMAINS ON TRACK

LTFC2020, the fans-backed, exclusive bidders for Luton Town Football Club, today confirmed that their bid remains completely on track and that their team are as resolute as ever.

Bid Manager, Gary Sweet, confirmed that all investors and stakeholders remain confident that they can deliver their 2020 Mission and have not been swayed by the increasingly desperate tactics of those opposed to the fans-backed takeover.

It was also revealed that LTFC2020 invested a second tranche of money to avoid further player sales in January, even though it is not yet under its ownership, so that the Administrator was under no pressure to sell players at knock-down prices.

Bids for certain players were rejected leaving Mick Harford with the maximum, albeit limited, resources with which to continue the fight against relegation.

Gary Sweet said: "We continue to make excellent progress with the Administrator who has confirmed that he will work with us to bring the sale date forward so that we can look to the future. We know we have the support of the fans, MP's, the manager, playing staff, employees, and the Council."

He continued, "The objective here is to conclude the deal as soon as possible despite distractions from opposing bidders who have lost out and refuse to go away.

Mr Sweet said " It is a pitiful distraction. They are turning this into a 'Club -owned -by- fans' versus a 'Club -owned- by- property developers' battle. Some of our investors and team have recently been contacted directly by our rivals with scare stories and smears in an attempt to de-rail the 2020 bid. We will not be swayed by bullying tactics aimed at forcing us to move to their stadium because they need it to make millions of profit from a warehouse development."

Gary went on "We've said from day one that we'll conduct an independent feasibility study to find the