WEST HAM UNITED
theyflysohigh : Steve Marsh
FOOTBALL PROGRAMMES &
Collectables through the Decade
A Pictorial History
1962-63 Metropolitan League
Manager: Jim Barrett
West Ham United’s 1962–63 Metropolitan League season was shaped by a youthful squad that adapted impressively to the demands of senior football. With regular calls on players for Reserve and Youth commitments, the side often featured teenagers from the South‑East Counties League, yet their performances remained consistently competitive.
Early results were mixed, including a 4–2 defeat to the league leaders despite goals from Peter Bennett and Jim Barrett, but December brought improvement. A 3–1 win at Tonbridge Reserves was followed by a Boxing Day victory at Guildford City, where team‑manager Jimmy Barrett deputised in goal and kept a clean sheet in a 2–0 success.
The most emphatic result of the campaign came against Didcot Town, West Ham winning 10–0 with Martin Britt scoring four and John Dryden three. Other notable displays included a 4–0 win over a Southern League second‑string, with Barrett and Gordon Randall each scoring twice, and a 2–0 victory over Didcot that marked the welcome return of goalkeeper Lawrie Leslie after his long injury lay‑off.
There were setbacks — notably a 4–2 reversal at Bedford after leading by two goals, and a controversial 3–2 defeat to Crawley in which Brian Rhodes, playing as an emergency centre‑forward, scored twice before two late disputed decisions turned the match.
The season closed on a high when an exceptionally young XI defeated a Southern League reserve side 2–0, with Joe Gadston and Roger Hoy scoring. Across the campaign, goals from Barrett, Dryden, Britt, Bennett and others highlighted the depth of emerging talent, while Leslie’s return added further encouragement.
Overall, it was a season that demonstrated the progress of a developing group, whose energy and resilience kept West Ham firmly competitive throughout the Metropolitan League programme.
NO Programmes issued for Home games at Chadwell Heath in the League
DARTFORD Reserves
Watling Street
1 - 3 (Dryden)
18 August 1962
Dickie
Presland
Kitchener
Dawkins
Bickles
Smith T.
Bennett
Barrett
Britt
Barker
Dryden
Several of our Youth Section graduates were included in the “A” Team line‑up that opened the season with a Metropolitan League fixture against Dartford Reserves at the Watling Street Ground. It was a stern assignment for such a youthful side: Dartford are the reigning champions of the competition, seasoned and confident, and they showed their pedigree with a 3–1 victory.
Even so, there was plenty to admire in our performance. John Dryden supplied our goal, and throughout the afternoon the youngsters - dismissed in some quarters as mere “lightweights” - stood up well to the physical challenge and refused to be overawed. Their football had energy, purpose, and no shortage of promise.
The result may have gone the champions’ way, but we were more than satisfied with the display. For an opening test against the league’s benchmark side, it offered genuine encouragement for the months ahead.
WOODFORD TOWN
Chawell Heath
7 - 0 Sissons 2, Barry 2, Bennett 2, Bickles [pen]
22 August 1962
Dickie, Presland, Smith T., Dawkins, Bickles, Charles, Bennett, Barry, Britt, Sissons, Dryden
Although our young side controlled much of the early play, it took until the 37th minute for the breakthrough to arrive. When it came, it was a moment of opportunism: John Sissons, tight on the wing, let fly with a speculative effort that completely wrong‑footed the goalkeeper and dropped inside the far post.
That strike seemed to release something. Within three minutes we had two more on the board. Peter Barry cut inside and drove a firm left‑footer beyond the ’keeper, and almost straight from the restart Sissons struck again - the finish capping a sweeping move that began deep in our own penalty area and flowed through Alan Dickie, Trevor Dawkins, John Charles and John Dryden.
The second half brought no let‑up. Midway through the period Peter Bennett rose to meet a centre from Charles and guided it home for 4–0, and from there the scoreline only grew more emphatic. In the closing stages Dave Bickles converted a penalty, before Bennett and Barry added further goals to complete a commanding 7–0 rout.
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ARSENAL "A"
London Colney
0 - 2
25 August 1962
Dickie
Presland
Smith T.
Dawkins
Bickles
Charles
Redknapp
Bennett
Britt
Barrett
Dryden
Against Arsenal “A” our youngsters found themselves up against a side with noticeably greater experience, and over the course of the afternoon that edge told. The home team were composed, organised, and ultimately deserved their 2–0 victory.
For our part, we never quite reached the level of fluency or conviction we know this group can produce. There were promising passages, moments when the movement and intent were there, but in general we could not claim to have been as impressive as we might have been. It was a reminder of the standards required - and of the room still left for this developing side to grow.
METROPOLITAN POLICE
Chadwell Heath
4 - 2 (Britt 2, Barry, Sissons)
29 August 1962
Dickie, Burnett, Wach, Dawkins, Bennett, Charles, Redknapp, Barry, Britt, Sissons, Dryden
We were hosts to the Metropolitan Police at our Savill Road Ground, Chadwell Heath, and once again youth was given its head. The full‑back pairing told its own story: Dennis Burnett, a graduate of our junior ranks, alongside Richard Wach, an amateur Polish triallist eager to make an impression.
By the interval we had carved out a two‑goal lead, yet the match never quite settled into the comfortable pattern the scoreline suggested. Too often we drifted into over‑elaboration, stitching together pretty passing movements without the necessary bite at the finish. It wasn’t until late in the second half that we finally shook off that habit and imposed ourselves with more direct, purposeful football.
Once we did, the difference was immediate. Martin Britt struck twice, Peter Barry added another, and John Sissons completed the tally - a quartet of goals that underlined our superiority and gave the afternoon the emphatic shape it had threatened from the start.
GUILDFORD CITY Reserves : ML Cup (First Round)
Joseph's Road Ground
3 - 4 (Barrett, Britt, Dryden)
1 September 1962
Mackleworth
Presland
Smith T.
Dawkins
Bickles
Howe
Redknapp
Barrett
Britt
Barker
Dryden
It was a match that swung wildly from promise to heartbreak, a fluctuating contest in which West Ham’s young side produced some of their most fluent football of the season during a vibrant first half. They moved the ball crisply, pressed with purpose, and were rewarded with three well‑taken goals: Jim Barrett setting the tone, Martin Britt imposing himself with the authority of a senior centre‑forward, and John Dryden adding the third to give the Hammers a commanding 3–1 lead at the interval.
For a time it felt as though they had the measure of the occasion. But the second half brought a transformation every bit as dramatic as their early dominance. City came at them with a renewed ferocity, throwing everything forward and dragging the game into a breathless, end‑to‑end struggle. The tension inside the ground tightened with every attack, every clearance, every scramble in the box.
Guildford hauled the visitors level, their momentum building ominously as West Ham fought to steady themselves. Then, almost with the final kick, came the decisive blow - a late strike that snatched a 4–3 victory and turned the match on its head. What had looked like a triumphant afternoon for the young Hammers dissolved in an instant into one of those cruel footballing lessons that linger long after the whistle.
KETTERING TOWN Reserves
Rockingham Road
3 - 8 (Barry 3)
8 September 1962
Mackleworth
Howe
Wach
Dawkins
Presland
Charles
Bennett
Barry
Britt
Barker
Dryden
From West Ham’s point of view, the one bright spark in an otherwise punishing afternoon was Peter Barry’s hat‑trick - a superb individual return that deserved a far kinder fate. His three goals were the sum total of the Hammers’ tally, for Kettering struck eight in reply, the final score tilting heavily and unmistakably in their favour.
Yet the numbers alone don’t tell the whole story. This was a young, raw West Ham side, several of them still under seventeen, learning their trade against opponents who were not only stronger in the challenge but far more seasoned in the rhythms of competitive football. For long spells the Hammers tried to play their way through, showing touches of promise and no shortage of heart, but the physical and tactical maturity of Kettering repeatedly told.
Barry’s finishing — sharp, instinctive, and defiantly composed amid the chaos - kept West Ham in the contest longer than the scoreline suggests. Each goal was a reminder of the talent emerging within the ranks, even as the match itself slipped further from their grasp. By the closing stages the gap in experience had become too wide to bridge, and Kettering’s superiority carried them relentlessly to victory.
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OXFORD UNITED Reserves
Headington
2 - 0 (Britt, Hugo)
15 September 1962
Dickie
Presland
Smith T.
Dawkins
Bickles
Howe
Bennett
Barry
Sealey
Britt
Hugo
West Ham’s “A” Team turned in an excellent performance at Headington, earning a thoroughly deserved Metropolitan League victory over Oxford United. The afternoon carried an added significance with the return of Alan Sealey, making his first appearance in claret and blue since suffering injury against Leyton Orient back on September 1. He came through the test with real assurance, showing plenty of dash through the middle and reminding everyone of the direct, purposeful edge he brings to the side. Behind him, the defence produced one of their steadiest displays of the campaign. Eddie Presland and Dave Bickles were particularly impressive, each catching the eye with calm, disciplined work that repeatedly broke up Oxford’s attempts to build momentum. Their composure set the platform for West Ham to play with confidence and control.
Further forward, the Hammers carried a constant threat. Martin Britt, leading the line with his usual authority, found the net, while Roger Hugo added the other - two well‑taken goals that reflected the balance of play and underlined the team’s superiority. By the final whistle there was no doubting the merit of the result. It was a strong, cohesive display, marked by Sealey’s encouraging return, a resolute back line, and a forward line that took its chances with conviction.
GUILDFORD CITY reserves
Chadwell Heath
3 - 0 (Barry 2, Bennett)
22 September 1962
Ferrier, Presland, Howe, Dawkins, Tindall, Charles, Bennett, Barry, Britt, Barrett, Dryden
Guildford City Reserves arrived at Chadwell Heath with the memory of their 4–3 Metropolitan League Cup win still fresh, and there was no disguising West Ham’s appetite for revenge. The Hammers set about their task with purpose, and from the outset there was a sharper edge, a sense of determination running through the side.
A notable inclusion was young Scottish goalkeeper Brian Ferrier, making his first appearance since arriving from junior football north of the border. Any nerves were quickly settled; he handled cleanly, positioned himself well, and by the end of the afternoon had earned a clean sheet that spoke volumes for his composure.
Another intriguing selection saw Ron Tindall deployed at centre‑half. More commonly associated with the forward line, he adapted impressively to the pivot role, reading the game neatly and using his experience to steady the defence. His performance was encouraging enough to suggest that further trials in the position are almost certain.
Where the previous meeting had slipped away in a flurry of late goals, this time West Ham controlled the contest with authority. The all‑round display was rewarded with a convincing 3–0 victory, Peter Barry continuing his prolific run with two more goals and Peter Bennett adding the other. Barry’s tally now stands at eight in five matches - a remarkable burst of scoring that hints at real potential should he continue to develop with increased training and experience.
In every department the Hammers held the upper hand, and the final whistle brought not only satisfaction but a sense of balance restored. A clean sheet, a reshaped defence performing admirably, and a forward line taking its chances - all told, a thoroughly deserved win and a quietly significant afternoon at Chadwell Heath.
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METROPOLITAN POLICE
Imber Court
1 - 1 (Dryden)
26 September 1962
Ferrier
Presland
Kitchener
Dawkins
Tindall
Howe
Redknapp
Bennett
Britt
Barrett
Dryden
After a rather disappointing midweek showing, West Ham’s “A” Team returned to something much closer to their true form on Saturday, and their overall position in Metropolitan League football now looks decidedly encouraging. The improvement was immediate: sharper movement, tidier passing, and a far more settled rhythm through the side.
The first half, though goalless, belonged largely to the Hammers. They controlled long stretches of play, worked promising openings, and kept the Police pinned back for periods without quite finding the decisive touch in front of goal. The pressure finally told after the interval when John Dryden struck to give West Ham a deserved lead, a neat finish that reflected the balance of the contest. But the inability to land a second blow proved costly. The Police rallied late on and, against the run of play, forced an equaliser before the finish to secure a 1–1 draw. It was a frustrating conclusion for a side that had held the upper hand for most of the afternoon yet lacked the finishing punch that would have delivered both points.
Even so, the display marked a clear step forward — a reminder of the team’s potential and a sign that, with a little more ruthlessness in the final third, better results are well within reach.
BEDFORD TOWN Reserves : ML Pro Cup (First Round - 1st leg)
Chadwell Heath
3 - 1 (Bennett, Britt, Dryden)
29 September 1962
Dickie, Dawkins, Howe, Bovington, Tindall, Boult, Redknapp, Bennett, Britt, Barrett, Dryden
There was a distinctly experimental feel to the Hammers’ line‑up, but the reshaped side rose to the challenge with a performance full of discipline and quiet authority. David Boult, a wing‑half from the Brighton area, was given his first outing in claret and blue and settled impressively into a tight, well‑organised defence. Alongside him, Trevor Dawkins - playing at full‑back for the first time this season - and the ever‑reliable Eddie Bovington both caught the eye with strong, composed displays.
The visitors arrived with a notably powerful and experienced team, their ranks including former West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper Jock Wallace, whose presence alone suggested a demanding afternoon. Yet West Ham matched them stride for stride, holding the game level at 1–1 by half‑time thanks to Peter Bennett’s neatly‑taken goal.
After the interval the Hammers grew steadily stronger, their confidence rising as they began to dictate the tempo. The pressure told as John Dryden struck to restore the lead, and Martin Britt added another to complete a well‑earned 3–1 victory. It was a result built on organisation, hard running and a willingness to seize the initiative when the game opened up.
For a side still bedding in new faces and new positions, it was an encouraging afternoon - a solid defensive platform, goals shared among the forwards, and a win carved out against seasoned opposition. A quietly impressive step forward.
TONBRIDGE Reserves
Chadwell Heath
3 - 3 (Bennett, Britt, Dryden)
6 October 1963
Grainger, Jones, Howe, Dawkins, Presland, Boult, Bennett, Barry, Britt, Sissons, Dryden
West Ham’s only Metropolitan League outing over the previous fortnight came on Saturday, 6 October, when Tonbridge Reserves visited Chadwell Heath. The Hammers fielded a youthful and energetic side with the only newcomer being Welshman Billy Jones, making his first appearance in claret and blue.
Tonbridge began the stronger and held the upper hand throughout the first half, their experience telling as they moved into a 2–0 lead by the interval. West Ham, though, emerged for the second period with renewed purpose. The passing sharpened, the tempo lifted, and gradually the momentum swung their way.
Peter Bennett struck first to halve the deficit, Martin Britt followed with a typically forceful finish, and John Dryden completed the turnaround with a goal that sent the home side ahead. At 3–2, and with the ninety minutes seemingly played out, it looked as though the Hammers had completed a stirring comeback.
But football’s sense of timing can be cruel. In the two or three minutes of added “overtime,” Tonbridge forced one last attack and snatched an equaliser, levelling the match at 3–3. It was a frustrating end to a second‑half revival that had promised all three points, yet the character shown after the break - and the quality of the goals - offered plenty of encouragement for the weeks ahead.
DARTFORD Reserves
Chadwell Heath
3 - 2 (Barry 2, Bennett)
20 October 1962
Grainger, Presland, Kitchener, Barrett, Bickles, Howe, Bennett, Barry, Britt, Sissons, Dryden
West Ham’s 3–2 victory over Dartford Reserves at Chadwell Heath was as valuable as it was hard‑earned, lifting the side into fourth place in the Metropolitan League standings and offering further evidence of their growing cohesion. On this occasion the Hammers benefited from the steadying influence of team‑manager Jimmy Barrett, who took up the right‑half role and used all his experience to guide and prompt the younger players around him.
Up front, the in‑form Peter Barry continued his remarkable early‑season run. He struck twice before the interval, two well‑taken goals that pushed his tally into double figures - ten for the campaign - and sent West Ham in at half‑time with a deserved advantage. Dartford, to their credit, refused to fold and pulled a goal back to narrow the margin, but the Hammers responded with composure. Peter Bennett restored the cushion with a neatly‑finished effort that made it 3–1 and seemed to settle the contest.
The Kent side rallied again, finding a second goal to keep the closing stages tense, yet West Ham held firm. Their organisation, work‑rate and sharper finishing ultimately proved decisive, and by the final whistle there was no doubting the merit of the result. It was a performance that blended youthful energy with experienced guidance - and one that confirmed the Hammers as deserving winners on the day.
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BEXLEYHEATH & WELLING Reserves
Town Ground
2 - 3 (Britt 2)
27 October 1962
Mackleworth
Burnett
Kitchener
Dawkins
Bickles
Howe
Bennett
Barry
Britt
Barrett
Dryden
The Metropolitan League fixture took West Ham’s youngsters to the Town Ground for a meeting with Bexleyheath and Welling Reserves. The side we fielded was, in essence, our Colts team - a group brimming with energy and promise, most of them still in their teens, with Jim Barrett the only player of more seasoned years.
Despite their youth, the Hammers acquitted themselves admirably. They moved the ball well, showed plenty of spirit, and refused to be intimidated by opponents who carried far more physical weight and senior‑level experience. For long spells the match was evenly balanced, and whenever West Ham broke forward it was Martin Britt who provided the cutting edge. He struck both our goals with the assurance of a centre‑forward growing rapidly in confidence.
In the end, though, the sheer strength of the opposition told. Bexleyheath and Welling pressed hard in the closing stages and edged a tight contest 3–2. It was a narrow defeat, but one that reflected well on a youthful side who battled throughout and showed enough quality to suggest that better results are not far away.
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CRAWLEY TOWN Reserves
Town Meadow
3 - 5 (Barrett, Britt, Hugo)
3 November 1962
Mackleworth
Burnett
Presland
Dawkins
Bickles
Barrett
Bennett
Hugo
Britt
Sissons
Dryden
Our visit to Town Meadow brought us up against one of the Metropolitan League’s most formidable sides in Crawley Town - a club strong enough to have already applied for admission to the Southern League. It was, on paper, a daunting assignment for a West Ham team made up largely of youngsters, yet they rose to the challenge with a display that was both spirited and unexpectedly accomplished.
In truth, they could easily have played worse and won. The match unfolded in almost fantastical fashion, full of incident, momentum swings and moments when the Hammers looked capable of upsetting far more seasoned opponents. For long spells they matched Crawley stride for stride, moving the ball neatly and showing admirable courage in possession. But the conditions were the great leveller - and ultimately the great decider. The Town Meadow pitch was heavy, clinging and energy‑sapping, and as the game wore on it was our lightweights who paid the price. Their stamina drained by the mud, the sharpness of the first hour gradually ebbed away, and Crawley’s physical strength began to tell.
Even so, to emerge on the wrong end of a 5–3 scoreline felt harsh. The Hammers had contributed fully to a remarkable contest and, with a little more fortune underfoot, might well have taken something from it. As it was, the afternoon stood as a testament to their effort, their enterprise, and their refusal to be overawed by one of the league’s strongest sides.
RAINHAM TOWN
Chadwell Heath
1 - 0 (Presland)
10 November 1962
Mackleworth, Burnett, Presland, Dawkins, Barrett, Howe, Redknapp, Bennett, Britt, Sissons, Dryden
A single goal was all it took, but it was enough. Eddie Presland’s well‑struck effort secured both points against Rainham Town in the Metropolitan League fixture at Chadwell Heath, a tight, hard‑fought contest in which West Ham showed the greater composure when it mattered.
The scoreline tells its own story. Chances were scarce, space was limited, and neither side was willing to give an inch. Yet the Hammers carried the sharper edge, moving the ball with a little more purpose and defending with a discipline that kept Rainham at arm’s length for long spells. Presland’s goal - the decisive moment of the afternoon - reflected that superiority, a clean finish that rewarded West Ham’s persistence.
Rainham pressed late on, but the home side held firm, seeing out the closing stages with a maturity that belied the youth in the ranks. The victory lifted the Hammers to sixth place, their tally now 14 points from 13 games - a quietly encouraging return for a side still knitting together its rhythm and identity. A narrow win, yes, but a deserved one, carved out through organisation, effort and a touch of quality at the right moment.
BEDFORD TOWN Reserves : ML Pro Cup (First Round 2nd leg)
The Eyrie
0 - 4
17 November 1962
Mackleworth
Burnett
Presland
Dawkins
Barrett
Howe
Redknapp
Bennett
Britt
Sissons
Dryden
West Ham’s “A” Team travelled to face Bedford Town in the second leg of the Metropolitan League Cup, knowing they carried a 3–1 advantage from the first meeting at Chadwell Heath back in September. It was a useful cushion, but it did not survive long. The Eagles, strong at home and in confident form, produced a commanding display that overturned the deficit with something to spare.
Bedford swept to a 4–0 victory on the day, a result that not only wiped out West Ham’s first‑leg lead but carried the aggregate score to 5–3 in their favour, securing their passage to the Semi‑Final of the League Professional Cup. From the outset they looked the more cohesive and experienced side, moving the ball with authority and applying pressure that the young Hammers struggled to resist.
West Ham worked hard, but Bedford proved far superior in every department, their strength and organisation giving them full value for the win. By the final whistle there could be no complaints: the better team had advanced, and the Hammers were left to reflect on a tie that had promised much after the first leg but slipped decisively away in the return. A tough lesson, and one delivered by opponents who earned their place in the next round.
BEDFORD TOWN Reserves
Chadwell Heath
4 - 1 (Barry 3, Britt)
24 November 1962
Mackleworth, Burnett, Presland, Dawkins, Bickles, Howe, Redknapp, Barry, Britt, Bennett, Dryden
There was no mistaking the sense of purpose about West Ham’s “A” Team as they faced Bedford Town once more, and this time the balance of power shifted decisively. Where the earlier cup meeting had gone firmly the Eagles’ way, the return fixture saw the Hammers dominate from the outset, dictating the tempo and forcing Bedford to play second fiddle throughout.
At the heart of it all was the irrepressible Peter Barry, whose scoring touch continues to define his season. He helped himself to a superb hat‑trick — three confidently‑taken goals that lifted his Metropolitan League tally to thirteen - and once again underlined his growing importance to the side. Martin Britt added the fourth, a finish that capped a performance full of drive and authority.
The victory was as convincing as the scoreline suggests, a display built on energy, sharp movement and a willingness to seize control in every department. It also carried the Hammers up to sixth place, their total now 16 points from 14 games, with St. Neots Town due at Chadwell Heath this afternoon.
ST NEOTS TOWN
Chadwell Heath
5 - 2 (Barry 3, Barrett, Dryden)
1 December 1962
Mackleworth, Burnett ,Kitchener, Needham, Presland, Howe, Redknapp, Bennett, Barry, Barrett, Dryden
This was hardly a classic as a spectacle, yet West Ham’s young side emerged with a resounding 5–2 victory - a scoreline that reflected their superiority even if the match itself never quite caught fire. For long spells the Hammers were simply too sharp, too lively and too inventive for the Bedfordshire club, and the margin could easily have been greater.
No one embodied that dominance more than Peter Barry. He had the ball in the net six times over the course of the afternoon, only for three of those “goals” to be ruled out - a source of some frustration, but also a measure of how relentlessly he tormented the visiting defence. The hat‑trick he was allowed to keep was fully deserved, and he stood out as the star performer from first whistle to last.
Jim Barrett added another with a typically forceful finish, while John Dryden completed the tally, rounding off a display in which West Ham’s youthful energy and attacking intent repeatedly overwhelmed their opponents. Even in a match that never quite rose to great heights, the Hammers were comfortably the better side, and the final scoreline felt a fair reflection of their command.
KETTERING TOWN Reserves
Chadwell Heath
2 - 4 (Barrett, Bennett)
8 December 1962
Mackleworth, Burnett, Presland, Needham, Bickles, Howe, Redknapp, Bennett, Barry, Barrett, Dryden
The visit of the Metropolitan League leaders offered West Ham’s third‑string a chance to close the gap at the top, but the Northants club once again proved why they sit at the summit. By repeating their early‑season victory, they ensured the Hammers remained in third place, the afternoon ending with a 4–2 defeat that reflected the balance of play.
For much of the ninety minutes the visitors held the upper hand, their experience and physical strength giving them a slight but persistent edge. West Ham battled gamely, and when chances came they were taken well: Peter Bennett struck one, Jim Barrett added the other, and for spells the Hammers threatened to turn the contest into something tighter.
But the league leaders always seemed able to find an extra gear when required. Their pressure told, their finishing was clinical, and in the end they left Chadwell Heath with both points and their position at the top intact.
TONBRIDGE Reserves
Angel Ground
3 - 1 (Barry, Lansdowne, Presland)
21 December 1962
Mackleworth
Burnett
Presland
Dawkins
White
Lansdowne
Redknapp
Bennett
Barry
Barrett
Randall
Our “A” Team managed to fit in two fixtures during the latter part of December, and by winning both they climbed into third place in the Metropolitan League table - a welcome rise as the year drew to a close.
The first of those victories came on December 22 at the Angel Ground, where Tonbridge Reserves provided the opposition. West Ham produced a confident, purposeful display, their 3–1 success built on a blend of tidy approach play and sharp finishing. Eddie Presland opened the scoring with a well‑struck effort, Bill Lansdowne added the second with a composed finish of his own, and the in‑form Peter Barry completed the tally, continuing the prolific run that has defined his season.
It was a solid, well‑earned win, and one that set the tone for the festive period - a young side gathering momentum, climbing the table, and showing signs of a team beginning to mature together.
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GUILDFORD CITY Reserves
Joseph's Road Ground
2 - 0 (Redknapp, Schumann)
26 December 1962
Barrett
Burnett
Presland
Dawkins
White
Howe
Redknapp
Sissons
Bennett
Dryden
Schumann
Our Boxing Day trip to the Josephs Road Ground brought a quietly memorable twist before a ball had even been kicked. With a late reshuffle required, team‑manager Jimmy Barrett stepped in “between the sticks,” taking over goalkeeping duties at short notice. Remarkably, he rose to the task with real assurance, keeping a clean sheet and organising the defence with the authority of a man who has seen every side of the game.
In front of him the young Hammers produced a disciplined, purposeful display. The back line - Burnett, Presland, Dawkins and W. White - held firm, while Howe, Redknapp and Sissons knitted the play together through midfield. Up front, Bennett, Dryden and R. Schumann carried the threat, and it was two of that trio who delivered the decisive moments.
Harry Redknapp opened the scoring with a crisp finish, and Schumann added the second to secure a 2–0 victory — a result earned through organisation, hard running and a touch of quality in the final third. With Barrett’s unexpected heroics in goal and a youthful side showing maturity beyond their years, it proved a highly satisfying Boxing Day outing.
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EASTBOURNE UNITED
The Oval, Princes Park
1 - 1 (Redknapp)
27 February 1963
Mackleworth
Burnett
Kitchener
Dawkins
Charles
Howe
Redknapp
Bennett
Britt
Sissons
Dryden
Our first‑line Youth XI produced a commendable performance to earn a 1–1 draw against a strong Eastbourne United amateur side, the match played under floodlights on a fine, clear evening that lent the occasion a touch of added spectacle. Despite the quality and experience of the opposition, the young Hammers held their own throughout, showing composure on the ball and plenty of determination off it.
Harry Redknapp supplied our goal, finishing neatly to cap one of West Ham’s best passages of play. Eastbourne responded in kind, and the contest remained evenly balanced to the end, both sides threatening without quite finding the decisive breakthrough.
DIDCOT TOWN
Chadwell Heath
10 - 0 (Britt 4, Dryden 3, Barrett, Bennett, Howe)
9 March 1963
Dickie, Burnett, Archer, Lansdowne, White, Howe, Redknapp, Bennett, Britt, Barrett, Dryden
Against bottom‑of‑the‑table Didcot Town, West Ham’s “A” Team produced a performance as emphatic as the scoreline suggests, running up ten goals without reply to maintain their hold on third place with 25 points from 20 games. It was an afternoon of almost uninterrupted dominance, the Hammers moving the ball freely, attacking in waves and finding the net with a regularity that left the visitors overwhelmed.
Remarkably, it had been only 3–0 at half‑time, a reflection more of missed chances than any resistance from Didcot. Once the second half began, the floodgates opened. Martin Britt led the charge with four goals, finishing with the assurance of a forward in complete command. John Dryden followed with a hat‑trick of his own, each strike neatly taken, while Jim Barrett, Peter Bennett and Bobby Howe added one apiece to complete the double‑figure tally.
Little commentary is needed beyond the bare facts: West Ham were far too strong, far too quick and far too inventive for their opponents, and the final scoreline could scarcely have been more decisive. A ruthless display, and one that keeps the Hammers firmly in the hunt near the top of the table.
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ST NEOTS TOWN
Shortlands
1 - 1 (Redknapp)
16 March 1963
Dickie
Burnett
Kitchener
Lansdowne
White
Howe
Redknapp
Bennett
Gadston
Barrett
Archer
REPORT:
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BEDFORD TOWN Reserves
The Eyrie
2 - 4 (Dear, Redknapp)
18 March 1963
Dickie
Burnett
Kitchener
Dawkins
Lansdowne
Howe
Redknapp
Bennett
Dear
Hugo
Dryden
Under the Bedford floodlights the evening began promisingly for the young Hammers, who struck twice to take control of the match. Harry Redknapp opened the scoring with a sharp finish, and Brian Dear added a second to give West Ham a 2–0 lead that briefly silenced the home crowd at the Eyrie.
But the advantage proved fragile. Spurred on by their supporters and growing in confidence, the Bedford side came back strongly, gradually turning the tide as the match wore on. Their pressure mounted, their finishing sharpened, and by the closing stages they had not only wiped out West Ham’s lead but pushed on decisively.
Four unanswered goals completed the turnaround, leaving the Hammers on the wrong end of a 4–2 scoreline in a game that had once looked well within their grasp. A frustrating night, shaped by a bright start but ultimately claimed by the home side’s resilience and momentum under the lights.
EASTBOURNE UNITED
Chadwell Heath
1 - 4 (Barrett)
23 March 1963
Mackleworth, Burnett, Kitchener, Dawkins, Lansdowne, Porter, Redknapp, Bennett, Barrett, Howe, Randall
The Sussex amateurs of Eastbourne United proved too strong for West Ham on this occasion, their authority evident from the early stages. By half‑time they had established a 2–0 lead, using their experience and physical presence to keep the young Hammers largely on the back foot.
West Ham rallied after the interval and found a foothold when Jim Barrett pulled a goal back, a well‑taken finish that briefly hinted at a possible revival. But Eastbourne responded with renewed purpose, adding two further goals to restore their advantage and close out the match with a 4–1 scoreline that reflected their control over the ninety minutes.
BEXLEYHEATH & WELLING Reserves
Chadwell Heath
4 - 0 (Barrett 2, Randall 2)
30 March 1963
Dickie, Burnett, Kitchener, Howe, White, Archer, Redknapp, Bennett, Barrett, Gadston, Randall
There was never likely to be much resistance from the Southern League club’s second‑string, and so it proved. West Ham’s youngsters were far too quick, far too bright and far too cohesive for their opponents, cruising to a comfortable 4–0 victory that showcased the depth of talent running through the Colts.
Jim Barrett and amateur forward Gordon Randall shared the goals equally, each helping himself to a brace. Barrett’s finishes carried the authority of a player accustomed to leading by example, while Randall’s contributions were sharp, lively and full of promise. Behind them, the supporting cast of young Hammers moved the ball with a fluency that the visitors simply could not match.
In truth, the margin might have been even greater. West Ham’s pace and movement repeatedly unpicked the defence, and the match became a showcase for the energy and enterprise of a side growing in confidence with every outing.
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DIDCOT TOWN
Station Road Ground
2 - 0 (Bennett, Gadston)
6 April 1963
Leslie
Burnett
Kitchener
Lansdowne
White
Howe
Redknapp
Bennett
Gadston
Barrett
Archer
The chief point of interest in this meeting with bottom‑of‑the‑table Didcot Town was not the contest itself but the welcome sight of Lawrie Leslie back in goal after an absence of just over five months. His broken leg, suffered against Bolton Wanderers on November 3, had kept him sidelined ever since, and his return brought a genuine lift to those watching. Lawrie came through this first test with assurance, handling cleanly, moving confidently, and showing every sign that he will be ready for further action during the Easter holidays.
As for the match, there is little to embellish. West Ham encountered no real difficulty in securing a 2–0 victory, controlling the play throughout and keeping Didcot at arm’s length. Peter Bennett opened the scoring, and Joe Gadston added the second, each finish calmly taken in a game that rarely rose above routine.
GRAVESEND & NORTHFLEET
Chadwell Heath
5 - 1 (Barrett 4, Redknapp)
12 April 1963
Mackleworth, Burnett, Kitchener, Lansdowne, White, Wallace, Redknapp, Gadston, Barrett, Howe, Archer
Jimmy Barrett took centre stage on this occasion, turning in a performance of real authority as he helped himself to four goals in a commanding 5–1 victory. From the outset he looked sharp, confident and in complete control, finishing with the assurance of a player who understood the game was there to be shaped to his liking. Harry Redknapp supplied the other goal, rounding off an afternoon in which West Ham accepted a very healthy proportion of the chances they created.
As the scoreline suggests, it was a straightforward win. The young Hammers were quicker to the ball, brighter in their movement and far more incisive in the final third, their superiority reflected in both the margin and the manner of the result. Barrett’s finishing gave the display its headline, but the collective effort behind him ensured the points were thoroughly earned.
RAINHAM TOWN
Deri Park
2 - 1 (Barrett, Hugo)
13 April 1963
Leslie
Burnett
Presland
Lansdowne
White
Howe
Dear
Bennett
Barrett
Hugo
Dryden
With Lawrie Leslie continuing his return to fitness and taking another well‑judged try‑out in goal, West Ham fielded a notably stronger side than usual, several players with Combination experience stepping in as the Reserves were without a fixture. Even so, the opposition on this occasion proved far more robust, and the Hammers were made to work hard for the 2–1 victory they eventually secured.
The match was tightly contested from the outset, with West Ham needing to draw on all their experience and energy to keep control of the exchanges. Jim Barrett struck once more — a goal that lifted his season’s tally to thirteen and underlined his consistency in front of goal - while Roger Hugo added the other, finishing neatly to give the Hammers the edge they required.
Leslie, for his part, came through another examination with confidence, handling cleanly and organising the defence with the authority of a man steadily regaining his rhythm. It was, in the end, a win earned through determination rather than ease, but a valuable one nonetheless, shaped by a blend of youthful endeavour and seasoned know‑how.
ARSENAL "A"
Chadwell Heath
4 - 2 (Dawkins, Dear, Dryden, Hugo)
15 April 1963
Leslie, Burnett, Presland, Dawkins, Bickles, Howe, Redknapp, Bennett, Dear, Hugo, Dryden
Although we could have strengthened the side with several Reserves - they were again without a Combination fixture - West Ham instead chose to field a very young XI against Arsenal’s Highbury contingent. The one notable exception was the presence of Lawrie Leslie, continuing his sequence of test outings after his long lay‑off. His inclusion brought a reassuring weight of experience to the defence, and he handled everything with the calm authority of a man steadily regaining his touch.
The youngsters in front of him rose superbly to the challenge. Far from being overawed, they proved more than a match for the Gunners, playing with energy, confidence and a willingness to take the game to their opponents. Their reward was a splendid 4–2 victory, fashioned through a spread of well‑taken goals.
Trevor Dawkins struck first, Brian Dear added another, Roger Hugo continued his good run with a third, and John Dryden completed the tally — four goals shared among four promising young players, each finish reflecting the ambition and enterprise that defined the performance.
CRAWLEY TOWN Reserves
Chadwell Heath
2 - 3 (Rhodes 2)
20 April 1963
Leslie, Burnett, Kitchener, Stables, White, Lansdowne, Redknapp, Gadston, Rhodes, Barrett, Archer
There were several remarkable features about this match, not least the sight of goalkeeper Brian Rhodes leading the line at centre‑forward. With regular forwards unavailable through youth commitments and other calls, West Ham reshuffled boldly, pushing Rhodes into the middle - and he responded superbly, marking the occasion with two well‑taken goals.
At the other end, Lawrie Leslie continued his steady return from injury, producing a series of important saves that preserved a 2–1 lead after the sides had gone in level at 1–1 at half‑time. With only a couple of minutes remaining, the Hammers looked set for a hard‑earned victory.
Then came the late drama. First, a somewhat dubious penalty allowed Crawley to level the scores. Moments later, controversy deepened when the referee awarded the winning goal to the visitors despite strong protests that a forward had handled the ball into the net. The decision stood, and what had seemed a commendable, makeshift West Ham win was overturned in the dying moments.
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GRAVESEND & NORTHFLEET
Stonebridge Road
2 - 0 (Gadston, Hoy)
24 April 1963
Dickie
Porter
Archer
Needham
White
Wallace
Ackerman
Gadston
Rhodes
Lillington
Hoy
This was, in truth, an exceptionally young West Ham side - almost the entire XI drawn from those who have featured in the South‑East Counties League this season. Yet their performance belied their years. Faced with a Southern League reserve team of far greater experience, the youngsters rose superbly to the challenge and earned a splendid 2–0 victory.
They played with energy, discipline and a maturity that spoke well of their development. Joe Gadston opened the scoring with a confident finish, and Roger Hoy added the second, capping a display built on hard running, tidy passing and a willingness to compete for every ball.
Given the age and inexperience of the side, the result was all the more impressive. It was a fine win, thoroughly deserved - and the boys merit hearty congratulations for a performance that showed just how brightly the club’s next generation is beginning to shine.
OXFORD UNITED Reserves
Chadwell Heath
NOT PLAYED
WOODFORD TOWN
Snakes Lane
NOT PLAYED
