Another trip to the coast, not long after our last one. This time we face league leaders, Worthing. A team in great form - and one looking to keep their automatic promotion dreams alive, after missing out in the final of the playoffs last season. Let's learn a little more about them...
The Key Info
Founded: 1886
Nickname: The Rebels
Manager: Chris Agutter
Stadium: Sussex Transport Community Stadium
Capacity: 3250
The History
Founded in 1886, Worthing FC are a team who were quick to make their mark in the two
seasons they have competed in the National League South. Having started their journey in local Sussex leagues, Worthing transitioned to the Isthmian Divisions experiencing both relegations and promotions within their existence. Known as ‘The Rebels’, Worthing have spent 123 years at Woodside Road, which was recently rebranded as the Sussex Transport Community Stadium. Recently, former player George Dowell took over the club in 2015, installing an artificial pitch as well as overseeing promotion from the Isthmian Premier Division in the 2021/22 campaign. Last season saw Worthing build a platform for both striker Ollie Pearce, who scored 40 goals in last season’s campaign alongside former manager Adam Hinshelwood, as both moved to York City in the National League. Having experienced both relegations and promotions within their existence, Worthing will be looking to jump to the 1st tier of non-league football for the first time after they experienced heartbreak in a 3-4 loss to Braintree Town in last season’s playoff final.
The Manager: Chris Agutter
Having previous coaching experience with Hastings United, Stevenage and Brighton and Hove Albion’s Youth setup, Chris Agutter was appointed Worthing manager after their playoff final defeat to Braintree Town. With this season being his first, Agutter will look to continue the legacy left by the previous manager Adam Hinshelwood, after his departure to National League outfit York City. This season has shown that Agutter has been able to set the Rebels up to dominate games and with the Rebels currently sitting at the top of the table, he will want to win this game to keep Worthing at the top of the table.
Star Man: Danny Cashman
Signing on a free transfer at the beginning of 2023/24 season from Coventry City, Danny Cashman has started this season in fantastic form, averaging a goal every game. Despite appearances being limited for the striker last season, perhaps due to the 40 goal Ollie Pearce, Cashman will look to become the goalscorer with the Rebels aiming for the top end of the division.
Starting his career at fellow South Coast side Brighton and Hove Albion’s youth setup, Cashman was recruited by Coventry City to continue his development within their youth ranks. However, he was to get his first taste of EFL football after he was sent out on loan to Rochdale at the beginning of the 2021/22 season before going to Walsall on another loan just a season after. His final loan spell came at National League side Altrincham before Worthing signed him at the beginning of last season.
Despite having limited time to showcase his talents over last season, Cashman’s performances over this season has made him a key player in a competitive National League South.
The Skipper: Joel Colbran
Joel Colbran is a player who needs no introduction to fans of Worthing FC. Operating as a right back, Colbran is playing in his second spell at the Rebels, after joining from Loxwood ahead of the 2016/17 season. The 25 year old is also known for his creativity, with 27 goal contributions from 87 competitive appearances in the last 2 seasons - an average of a goal contribution every 3.2 games. Having racked up over 250 appearances for the club, Colbran will use his experience and creativity to help his team finish as high up the table as possible.
Last Time Out: Hemel 1-1 Worthing
The last fixture between these two teams saw Worthing rescue a point with the last kick of the game, in a competitive game at the Focus Community Arena. Whilst Worthing began the game with the majority of possession, duel success was vital for the Tudors, as the ball was eventually played through to Ricardo German to open the scoring in the 31st minute. However, the visitors did not panic and continued to threaten the Tudors' defence. It was a fantastic defensive effort from the hosts, who looked set to take the three points as time ticked over the minimum of six additional minutes at the end of the second half. However, a final attack resulted in a pass deflected into the path of Spong, who equalised to break the hearts of the valiant Tudors side.
Three points up for grabs and it could mean big things for either side! Keep up your noise Tudors! See you soon!
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