There are still two months of the football season left, and St Ives Town will be looking to win as many games as possible to finish in the top half of the Southern League Premier Division Central table.
Anything higher than 13th in the table would be history for the Ives as it would better their previous best, which was achieved at the end of the 2018/19 season. It would also mean their highest-ever finish in the football pyramid. It would also enhance an end-of-term report that was already going to score highly, given a record-breaking FA Cup run before bowing out to FC Halifax in the Fourth Qualifying Round back in October.
At the time of writing, the Ives are busy navigating through several away league matches to round off February. Tuesday night trips to Stratford, Coalville and Alvechurch were on the agenda to finish the month, and the Ives are on the road quite a bit during March. But, you may want to earmark Saturday 18 March if you fancy seeing some top-quality non-league football as they host Stourbridge at the Quattro-Tech Westwood Road.
Better still is the action that awaits the Ives in April. Coalville, who lost out in the play-off final last season, are in town on the 1st of the month. Then, a mouth-watering encounter as current league leaders Tamworth arrive a week later on 8 April. By the time of their Easter Saturday visit, Tamworth could already have one hand on the title. The final home game of the season is on the 15th with a local derby against Bedford Town.
Off the pitch, there have been some changes with longstanding club Chairman Gary Clarke stepping aside, but both he and his wife Maureen will remain actively involved behind the scenes. Paul Reason has stepped up to become the new Chairperson whilst the club has also thanked Marina Howlett who decided to relinquish her role as club Secretary.
The club recently held an excellent fans meeting which was well attended and several new ideas were put forward. So, look out for new incentives and fundraising activities which will take place, not just during the football season but also in the summer months. These include the annual Golf Day and a potential club summer Gala Day.
So, plenty happening at the Quattro-Tech Westwood Road as the season reaches its climax. Watching the Ives in action is a great way of spending a Saturday afternoon so why not come down and sample the matchday experience? Even better, spread the word and bring a family member, colleague, or friend. St Ives Town is a friendly club playing a decent level of football and a warm welcome is guaranteed. You can also get involved yourself, as the club is always looking for new volunteers and ideas. To register your interest, then please email [email protected]