All About Dorchester Town

The Grecians will be travelling to Dorset next Tuesday night (17th July) for a friendly against Dorchester Town. Kick-off is at 7.45pm.

So who are Dorchester Town? They were founded in 1880, so they’re older than Exeter City. They’ve had some good moments in the FA Cup facing the likes of Norwich City and Queens Park Rangers. Their early years saw them in the Dorset League, but in 1947 moved up to the Western League. in 1972 they moved on up to the Southern League, and with the formation of the Alliance League (Conference) became members of the newly reformed Souther League.  Some ups and downs followed, but last decade saw them reach the Conference South. The Club also came under the Chairmanship of Eddie Mitchell (now Chairman of Bournemouth).

In recent memory, this will be our second visit to the new Avenue Stadium. The stadium was opened in August 1990, it’s on the Duchy of Cornwall’s land and was designed by his architects. It has a feel of Tesco, for whim their store is situated next door. Bournemouth played there whilst their ground was developed, and Yeovil Town will play their friendly at the Avenue against Plymouth Argyle next Saturday (21st July).

In July 2007 we won 2-1, thanks to goals from Logie and Stanno. Last season we drew 1-1 with a goal from Dan Nardiello.

Following that friendly, the club forged closer links and Tom Nichols went for a short loan. The Blue Square South and Dorchester Town suited young Tom, as he scored 9 goals in 12 appearances (1 as a sub). We might well see another Exeter City youngster go there this coming season, as its reported that Dorchester Town would like to take players on loan this season.

2 former Grecians to look out for: Ben Watson now plays for them; and ex City goalie Jason Matthews, who made 18 appearances in 1999/2000, is also signed to them.

Thinking of going? Have a look at the instructions on how to get there on their websitehere. Sat Nav post code is DT1 2RY.