Andover FC were looking forward to a productive season in a number of competitions and welcomed back Gayfer from Alton as well as a new man in full-back Purver.

It got off to a disappointing start when, not for the first time, Southampton sent a weak side for a friendly, with only one known player and only nine in all. By then they had already played Lovatts Sports in the Hampshire League and won easily.

But it would not be the last of that side who were to end the season as arch enemies of the club and many of the supporters.

The second game at Ludgershall was fiery and George Bull was sent off and after a 6-0 win over North Hants Ironworks, the club bade farewell to secretary WT Turner, who left town for Torquay and was presented with a marble clock. It was soon apparent that Lovatts Sports were a strong outfit, made up as they were of construction workers from various parts of the country.

They hammered the Middlesex Regiment in the Hampshire Junior Cup 8-1 to set up a tasty tie with Andover. Dick Paris was among the goals in October and November, but he could do little on November 19 as Lovatts and Andover attracted a record crowd for their Junior Cup clash. Andover lost 2-0 but protested that the pitch was too small and were granted their wish of a replay. Before that could take place, Andover drew with Winchester and beat Salisbury City 6-0 to go top of the Hampshire League.

Full story with pictures in Friday's Advertiser.