The game away to Rugby Town saw Guildford City goalkeeper Antony Hall make his 150th career appearance for the club. While that particular match might be one to forget, here’s some information on Ant’s Guildford City career so far.
Since making his debut – shortly after current manager Kevin Rayner’s appointment – against Epsom & Ewell on the 8th August 2009, Ant has been an essential part of the set up as one of City’s consistently top performers and a key part in the side’s winning formula. Since Hall’s arrival, Guildford have gone from relegation fodder to double champions of the Combined Counties League and have recently enjoyed promotion to the Evo-Stik Southern League.
Hall has become a fan favourite, with a plethora of chants including the ubiquitous, “Antony Hall catches the ball” often being heard from The Sweeney. Away to Horley Town, during the 2010/2011 season Hall even became an honorary member of the Sweeney after collecting his one and only red card for City.
A vocal presence on and off the field, Hall is always one for a practical joke and usually takes charge of the players awards at the end of season celebration. Antony has also taken charge of the team on the field, captaining the field a total of 8 times, with City winning five of these games!
Guildford City have won 64% of Hall’s first 150 matches – with 44 clean sheets (one every 3.41 games). Hall also holds a remarkable average of conceding just 1.29 goals per game during his time at City – and only one of his appearances has been from the bench.
Antony has shown great commitment and dedication to the club, which we all hope will continue for seasons to come, and is one of a number of players set to reach the 150-game landmark this season. Who knows where Guildford City will be after Ant Hall’s next 150 appearances?
Article by Chris Lucas.
