Comprehensive Scout Report on Farnham Town Football Club
Farnham Town’s Remarkable Rise: From Local Club to Non-League Powerhouse
Farnham Town Sets New Records in English Football
Farnham Town has rapidly emerged as a standout in non-league football, achieving consecutive promotions and shattering records in the 2023/24 season. Under manager Paul Johnson, Farnham captured the national spotlight by winning their first 25 league matches consecutively. This outstanding performance marks a new record for the longest winning start to a season in English football.
Their unbeaten run secured the Combined Counties Premier South title well before the season’s end. Additionally, Farnham enjoyed historic runs in both the FA Cup and FA Vase and reached the Surrey Senior Cup Final after a significant win against Sutton.
Key Players Driving Success
Farnham’s success is attributed to its dynamic and resilient style of play. Captain Harry Cooksley, a central figure in the midfield, contributed 14 goals and numerous assists. Owen Dean, a consistent forward presence, has clinched the Club’s Golden Boot for three successive seasons, tallying 62 goals and 34 assists in 133 appearances.
The club has amassed an impressive 67 wins from 80 league games over the past two seasons, scoring around 250 goals and suffering just four losses. This formidable consistency is paralleled by a robust defensive lineup featuring Ryan Kinnane, Jack Dean, Jordan Stepney, Max Meaton, and Joe Jackson.
Strategic Signings for Continued Success
This season, Farnham Town competes in the Isthmian League South Central Division, having secured a historic promotion to Step 3. The team’s skillful performance continues, bolstered by new players including Ogo Obi, Bobby-Joe Taylor, Mat Mackenzie, Brandon Mason, Andronicos Georgiou, and Tom Leggett. These additions have further strengthened the squad, which now stands confidently as the only unbeaten team in the Southern League Premier South.
A Promising FA Cup Campaign
Farnham’s remarkable FA Cup journey began with a First Qualifying Round victory over Erith Town, propelled by a formidable brace from Dean. Subsequent wins against Burgess Hill Town and Dorchester Town have led them to the Fourth Qualifying Round for the first time in their 119-year history. Anticipation builds as BBC cameras are set to capture this historic achievement, with Sutton scheduled for their inaugural visit to GU9 for a non-Surrey Senior Cup competition.
Manager Paul Johnson: The Architect of Success
Paul Johnson has become synonymous with Farnham Town’s success, guiding the team through an era of unprecedented achievements. His leadership was crucial in back-to-back promotions and historic cup runs. Johnson’s prior managerial accomplishments include promoting Spelthorne Sports and Bedfont Sports, laying a strong foundation for his achievements with Farnham.
Ogo Obi: A Forward to Watch
Ogo Obi, formerly of Manchester United and Watford, has solidified his reputation as a formidable forward in non-league football. After a successful stint at Wingate & Finchley as the Isthmian Premier Division’s top scorer, Obi joined Farnham Town, where he continues to impress with his goal-scoring prowess.
Recent Performances Highlight Unwavering Form
Farnham Town’s recent matches underscore their exceptional form:
- Chichester City 2-4 Farnham Town
- Farnham Town 3-0 Dorchester Town
- Farnham Town 3-3 Gloucester City
- Farnham Town 4-0 Taunton Town
- Burgess Hill Town 1-3 Farnham Town
- Poole Town 2-2 Farnham Town
A Memorable Victory in the FA Trophy
Farnham Town secured a place in the First Round of the Isuzu FA Trophy following a compelling win over Chichester City. In a match marked by poignant tributes and shifting momentum, Farnham demonstrated their resilience and quality. Ogo Obi’s double and decisive goals from Mason and Cooksley confirmed their place in the tournament and marked Farnham’s spirited journey into the Trophy’s advanced stages.
