2009–10 Luton Town F.C. season

English football club season December 2017 February 2015 Luton Town 2009–10 2008–09 2010–11 Mick Harford (until 1 October 2009)Alan Neilson (caretaker manager from 1 October 2009 to 30 October 2009)Hatters part company with Mick http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1813913,00.html Luton Town F.C. 1 October 2009 1 October 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091004162954/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1813913%2C00.html 4 October 2009 deadRichard Money (from 30 October 2009)Luton appoint Money as new boss http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8334457.stm BBC Sport 30 October 2009 30 October 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091102091227/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8334457.stm 2 November 2009 live Nick Owen Conference Premier 2nd (Play-off semi-finals) FA Cup Third round FA Trophy First round Tom Craddock (23) Tom Craddock (24) 9,781 vs York City (Conference Premier Play-off semi-final, 3 May 2010) 2,518 vs Rotherham United (FA Cup second round replay, 8 December 2009) 6,578 _whiteborder _vneckwhite _whiteborder _whitetop F28500 F28500 F28500 ffffff F28500 _orange_border _orangecollar _orange_border _whitetop 000033 ffffff 000033 000033 000033 The 2009–10 season was the 124th season in the history of Luton Town Football Club. Luton's 23rd-place finish in the 2006–07 Football League Championship, last-place finish in the 2007–08 Football League One, and another last-place finish in the 2008–09 Football League Two meant that the club competed in the Conference Premier for the first time in its history, and in a division outside of the Football League for the first time since the beginning of their second spell as a member in 1920. Although tipped as favorites for the title and promotion before the season had even begun, the club struggled to immediately adapt to life in the new division, ultimately costing manager Mick Harford his job. Richard Money was appointed as the new manager soon after, eventually leading the club to an unbeaten run of 14 games towards the end of the season that propelled them to a second-place finish in the league. However, defeat in the play-off semi-finals to York City meant Luton was to remain in the Conference for the 2010–11 season. This article covers the period from 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010. Background History of Luton Town F.C. (1970–present) List of Luton Town F.C. seasons 2008–09 Luton Town F.C. season After a chaotic 2007–08 season, Luton Town's situation went from bad to worse when it emerged that, due to financial irregularities, they would start the 2008–09 season with a 20-point deduction from the Football League on top of a 10-point deduction from the Football Association for matters concerning transfers of players under the previous board.Luton Town lose appeal against points deduction http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/football_league/article4340138.ece https://web.archive.org/web/20110918040206/http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/football_league/article4340138.ece dead 18 September 2011 The Times 16 July 2008 17 July 2008 London Kaveh Solhekol As the club only exited administration two days before the start of the season, manager Mick Harford needed to rebuild the squad from scratch. Six new players were in the starting line-up for the first game of the season, and throughout the campaign loan and non-contracted players were drafted in and out of the squad.Luton recruit midfielder O'Connor http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/7655387.stm BBC Sport 6 October 2008 5 November 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081009044420/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/7655387.stm 9 October 2008 liveHatters complete double striker swoop http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1423881,00.html Luton Town F.C 17 October 2008 5 November 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081019232603/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1423881%2C00.html 19 October 2008 dead dmy-all Parkin move confirmed http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1429884,00.html Luton Town F.C 23 October 2008 24 October 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081026091821/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1429884%2C00.html 26 October 2008 dead dmy-all Henderson and Gallen sign on http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1506796,00.html Luton Town F.C. 2 January 2009 26 March 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090505024446/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1506796%2C00.html 5 May 2009 dead dmy-all As a result of this instability, the players never settled sufficiently to gain the results required. In the end, relegation was inevitable,Luton 0–0 Chesterfield http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7979729.stm BBC Sport 13 April 2009 13 April 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090415104114/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7979729.stm 15 April 2009 live though some consolation was taken from victory in the Football League Trophy final at Wembley Stadium.Luton 3–2 Scunthorpe (aet) http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/7975143.stm BBC Sport 5 April 2009 6 April 2009 Paul Fletcher https://web.archive.org/web/20090408040739/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/7975143.stm 8 April 2009 live Since Luton were no longer in the Football League, and thus no longer eligible for the competition, the club applied to defend their title during 2009–10. The request was denied on 15 June, causing the club to consider an appeal.Luton consider Trophy ban appeal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8101738.stm BBC Sport 15 June 2009 19 July 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090620002512/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8101738.stm 20 June 2009 live Review Pre-season Luton Town competed in the South West Challenge Cup during July, and were drawn to play against Bideford and Wycombe Wanderers in Group C.Devon Tournament Draw made http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1676245,00.html Luton Town F.C. 29 May 2009 29 May 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090531085646/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1676245%2C00.html 31 May 2009 dead dmy-all However, a waterlogged pitch caused the Wycombe game to be cancelled, and Luton were given passage into the semi-finals based on having a higher goal difference than Wycombe.Luton Town P–P Wycombe Wanderers http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8156344.stm BBC Sport 17 July 2009 17 July 2009 Luton beat Exeter City 3–2 in the semi-final,Luton Town fixtures and results http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10372,00.html Luton Town F.C. 21 July 2009 21 July 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20100528121005/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0%2C%2C10372%2C00.html 28 May 2010 dead dmy-all setting up the final against Grimsby Town. Grimsby, though, refused to play in the final due to safety concerns over a 6:00 pm kick-off time, and no compromise with the tournament organisers could be reached. As a result, Belgian club Montegnée, originally knocked out in the group stages, were invited to play in the final at Grimsby's expense.http://southwestchallengecup.moonfruit.com/#/grimsby-town-withdraw/4534752312 Grimsby Town withdraw from tournament 19 July 2009 South West Challenge Cup 19 July 2009 Luton went on to win the South West Challenge Cup with a 3–1 victory over Montegnée.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1726979,00.html Hatters win SW Challenge Cup 19 July 2009 Luton Town F.C. 19 July 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090721045454/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1726979,00.html 21 July 2009 dead Friendlies were arranged against St Neots Town, Hitchin Town (as a Luton XI), Spalding United (as a Luton XI), Swindon Town, Peterborough United, Manchester United, Biggleswade Town in the Bedfordshire Premier Cup (as a Luton XI), and Hampton & Richmond. On 8 July, it was announced that four players had not been offered new contracts, and were therefore released from the club. Ian Henderson was the only senior player to be released, along with three youth team players – Riccardo Biggi, Mark Farthing and Harry Hogarth.Absent friends http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Absent-friends.5436637.jp Luton Today 8 July 2009 8 July 2009 12 July 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090712140630/http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Absent-friends.5436637.jp dead Hatters release trio of youngsters http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Town-wish-Brill-well-at.5435548.jp Luton Today 8 July 2009 8 July 2009 12 July 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090712143356/http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Town-wish-Brill-well-at.5435548.jp dead On 22 July, Luton signed Shane Blackett on a two-year contract from Peterborough United. The transfer was funded from the proceeds of a friendly with Peterborough, which took place on 25 July.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1729696,00.html Friendly to fund Blackett deal Luton Town F.C. 22 July 2009 22 July 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20090725122115/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1729696%2C00.html 25 July 2009 Five days later, Luton-born defender Callum Reynolds signed on loan from Portsmouth until January.http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8171092.stm Luton sign Portsmouth youngster BBC Sport 27 July 2009 27 July 2009 On 29 July, striker Drew Talbot joined Chesterfield on a free transfer after failing to agree a new contract at Luton.http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/chesterfield/8174300.stm Talbot agrees Spireites contract BBC Sport 29 July 2009 29 July 2009 The next day, defender Ian Roper signed for Kettering Town on a free transfer.http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/k/kettering_town/8176107.stm Kettering sign Roper from Luton BBC Sport 30 July 2009 30 July 2009 Luton revealed new kits for the coming season on 30 July, reverting the home strip back to the orange colours that the club used primarily in the 1970s. A new two-year shirt sponsorship deal was announced with easyJet, whose headquarters are located at the nearby London Luton Airport.http://www.footballshirtculture.com/09/10-kits/luton-town-2009-2010-carbrini-kits.html Luton Town 09/10 Carbrini Kits Football Shirt Culture 30 July 2009 12 December 2009 August On 6 August, striker Steve Basham penned a one-year contract with the club,Hatters bag striker Basham Luton Town F.C. 6 August 2009 http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1745908,00.html 6 August 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20090809175032/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1745908%2C00.html 9 August 2009 and one day later, goalkeeper Shane Gore signed a one-month contract, acting as cover for Mark Tyler.Town snap up goalkeeper Gore Luton Town F.C. 7 August 2009 http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1747116,00.html 11 August 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090810170117/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1747116,00.html 10 August 2009 dead Luton began life in non-league football with a 1–1 draw away to AFC Wimbledon. Tom Craddock scored an early penalty before Wimbledon pegged Luton back with a penalty of their own late on, which saw Shane Blackett sent off on his debut.AFC Wimbledon 1–1 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8183896.stm BBC Sport 8 August 2009 8 August 2009 On 11 August, with the news that left-back Lewis Emanuel was to be sidelined for three months with a broken toe sustained in the game at Kingsmeadow, Luton signed Grays Athletic defender Fred Murray on a six-month loan deal.Hatters move for Murray Luton Town F.C. 11 August 2009 http://www.lutontown.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1750964,00.html https://archive.today/20120315073941/http://www.lutontown.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1750964,00.html dead 15 March 2012 11 August 2009 Murray started in the team on the same day in Luton's first home game of the season – a 4–1 victory over Mansfield Town that saw centre-back George Pilkington score his first two goals for the club.Luton Town 4–1 Mansfield Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8192473.stm BBC Sport 11 August 2009 11 August 2009 Luton continued with victories over GatesheadLuton Town 2–1 Gateshead http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8199945.stm BBC Sport 15 August 2009 15 August 2009 and Forest Green Rovers,Forest Green Rovers 0–1 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8204387.stm BBC Sport 18 August 2009 18 August 2009 before labouring to a 0–0 home draw with Chester City.Luton Town 0–0 Chester City http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8208145.stm BBC Sport 22 August 2009 23 August 2009 Long-term injuries to forwards Ryan Charles and Liam Hatch left Luton short on attacking options, resulting in striker George Donnelly signing on a one-month loan from Plymouth Argyle on 28 August.Plymouth loan Donnelly to Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8227688.stm BBC Sport 28 August 2009 28 August 2009 Luton ended August unbeaten with a draw at Kettering Town, placing them third in the table.Kettering Town 0–0 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8220697.stm BBC Sport 29 August 2009 29 August 2009 September Luton secured a fourth consecutive clean sheet with a 3–0 victory over Crawley Town at Kenilworth Road, keeping in touch with early league leaders Oxford United and Mansfield Town.Luton Town 3–0 Crawley Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8230344.stm BBC Sport 1 September 2009 1 September 2009 A poor run of form throughout the rest of September saw Luton pick up just seven points from six games – including away losses at OxfordOxford United 2–0 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8241896.stm BBC Sport 8 September 2009 8 September 2009 and Wrexham,Wrexham 3–0 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8261558.stm BBC Sport 22 September 2009 25 September 2009 the latter of which manager Mick Harford described as "the worst performance in Luton Town's history".Worst ever Luton performance – Harford http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8271308.stm BBC Sport 23 September 2009 29 September 2009 A brief respite was found in an extraordinary comeback victory over Cambridge United. Losing 2–0 at half-time and with a man sent off, Luton rallied to a 4–3 win by full-time, Kevin Gallen scoring twice.Cambridge United 3–4 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8275240.stm BBC Sport 26 September 2009 26 September 2009 However, just three days later, Luton suffered a home defeat after a lifeless performance to local rivals Stevenage Borough.Luton Town 0–1 Stevenage Borough http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8271233.stm BBC Sport 29 September 2009 29 September 2009 Peterborough United striker Ben Wright signed on a one-month loan on 29 September, boosting Luton's attacking options in the wake of further injuries and suspensions.The Wright Move http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1812371,00.html Luton Town F.C. 29 September 2009 29 September 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091003123550/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1812371%2C00.html 3 October 2009 dead October On 1 October, manager Mick Harford parted company as the club's manager by mutual consent. Luton were 13 points from the top of the table and, in a club statement, managing director Gary Sweet admitted that results and performances were not up to the standards expected at the beginning of the season. First-team coach Alan Neilson was named caretaker manager until a replacement for Harford could be found. Neilson's first game ended in a 2–1 victory over Tamworth.Luton Town 2–1 Tamworth http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8284616.stm BBC Sport 3 October 2009 3 October 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091005135329/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8284616.stm 5 October 2009 live Neilson continued on an unbeaten run of five matches, including an FA Cup victory over Grays Athletic, until Luton appointed former Walsall boss Richard Money as permanent manager on 30 October. Neilson continued working at the club as Money's assistant manager and former Cambridge United manager Gary Brabin was named as the club's chief scout. Luton lost their second home game of the season the next day, Rushden & Diamonds inflicting a 2–0 defeat with two late goals.Luton Town 0–2 Rushden & Diamonds http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8317075.stm BBC Sport 31 October 2009 2 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091031101546/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8317075.stm 31 October 2009 live November The month began with a thrilling 3–3 draw at home to League Two side Rochdale in the FA Cup on 7 November, resulting in a replay at Spotland four days later. Luton won the tie 2–0 to set up a second round encounter with Rotherham United. Richard Money made his first signings a day later – experienced Notts County goalkeeper Kevin Pilkington signed on a one-month loan to act as cover for the injured Mark Tyler,County keeper joins Hatters http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11768_5691269,00.html Sky Sports 12 November 2009 12 November 2009 whilst striker Mark Nwokeji was drafted in on loan until January 2010 from Dagenham & Redbridge.Nwokeji joins Hatters http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12955_5691424,00.html Sky Sports 12 November 2009 12 November 2009 Both players made their debuts in a 2–0 win over Grays Athletic on 14 November. A 2–2 home draw with Cambridge United the next week saw Luton let in two late goals; a game that could have ended in a loss had Kevin Pilkington not saved a penalty. The scheduled game against Mansfield Town on 24 November was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at Field Mill.Mansfield game off http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1884217,00.html Luton Town F.C. 24 November 2009 26 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091127071308/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1884217%2C00.html 27 November 2009 dead dmy-all On 26 November, the day of the loan transfer deadline, Coventry City winger Ashley Cain was signed for one month.Hatters capture Cain http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1886960,00.html Luton Town F.C. 26 November 2009 26 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091130011042/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1886960%2C00.html 30 November 2009 dead Midfielder Andy Burgess, who was signed only in May 2009 and had made 10 appearances for the club, joined promotion rivals Mansfield Town on an initial one-month loan with a permanent transfer arranged for January 2010.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1887221,00.html Burgess completes Stags switch 26 November 2009 Luton Town F.C. 26 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091130011417/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1887221%2C00.html 30 November 2009 dead In a busy day of transfer dealing, striker Steve Basham, sparsely used since his arrival in the summer, completed a two-month loan to Hayes & Yeading United.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1887338,00.html Basham loaned to Hayes & Yeading 26 November 2009 Luton Town F.C. 26 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091130170828/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1887338%2C00.html 30 November 2009 dead Luton signed Kidderminster Harriers' top scorer Matthew Barnes-Homer on a two-and-a-half-year contract for a five-figure fee, with the permanent transfer taking place in January 2010. Barnes-Homer would play until then on loan, with young Luton striker Ryan Charles heading to Kidderminster on loan for one month as part of the deal.http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/k/kidderminster_harriers/8381722.stm Luton sign Harriers' Barnes-Homer 26 November 2009 BBC Sport 26 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091130094937/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/k/kidderminster_harriers/8381722.stm 30 November 2009 live Two days later, Luton drew 2–2 in the FA Cup with Rotherham United, once more forcing a replay in the competition. December A 1–0 home defeat to Kettering Town on 2 December, followed by a 0–0 draw to Chester City three days later, resulted in Luton finding themselves in seventh place in the table and four points off of a play-off position, albeit with two games in hand over some teams. On 8 December, Luton beat League Two side Rotherham United 3–0 in an FA Cup second round replay at Kenilworth Road, setting up a third round encounter at League One side Southampton. Four days later, Cambridge United knocked Luton out of the FA Trophy with a 3–1 win at the Abbey Stadium.http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8410280.stm Cambridge United 3–1 Luton Town 12 December 2009 BBC Sport 13 December 2009 A series of postponements to games due to snow and ice left a sparse fixture list for the rest of the month, with Luton's only other game resulting in a 4–1 victory over Eastbourne Borough on 28 December, Matthew Barnes-Homer scoring his first goal for the club.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1908946,00.html Forest Green game off 18 December 2009 Luton Town F.C. 28 December 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091219213215/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1908946%2C00.html 19 December 2009 dead dmy-all http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1914784,00.html Club statement on postponement 24 December 2009 Luton Town F.C. 28 December 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091228085323/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1914784%2C00.html 28 December 2009 dead dmy-all January Luton were knocked out of the FA Cup by Southampton, a side two leagues higher, on 2 January in a narrow 1–0 defeat. On 5 January, with the transfer window now open, Luton signed young St Albans City players Jonathan O'Donnell and Godfrey Poku on 18-month contracts.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1924139,00.html Hatters swoop for St Albans duo 5 January 2010 Luton Town F.C. 6 January 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100108103058/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1924139%2C00.html 8 January 2010 dead dmy-all O'Donnell had previously spent time in the youth set-up at Luton's local rivals Watford and Milton Keynes Dons, while Poku was highly rated by St Albans manager Steve Castle.http://www.stalbansreview.co.uk/sport/4679112.Former_Watford_youngster_O_Donnell_could_land_first_start_for_St_Albans_City/ Former Watford youngster O'Donnell could land first start for St Albans City 14 October 2009 St Albans & Harpenden Review 6 January 2010http://www.stalbansreview.co.uk/sport/4816401.Saints_boss_asks_Poku_and_O_Donnell_to_be_patient_and_stay_at_Clarence_Park/ St Albans City boss Steve Castle pleads with pair to reject Luton Town and stay with Saints 23 December 2009 St Albans & Harpenden Review 6 January 2010 On 30 January, the two players were loaned back to St Albans for a period of one month.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1949798,00.html Duo loaned back to Saints 30 January 2010 Luton Town F.C. 30 January 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100203025509/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1949798%2C00.html 3 February 2010 dead Further postponements due to the adverse weather meant Luton had played just one league game in seven weeks, leaving a further 23 games to be played in three months.http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8448023.stm Mansfield Town P–P Luton Town 8 January 2010 BBC Sport 13 January 2010http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1927006,00.html Histon at home off on Tuesday 11 January 2010 Luton Town F.C 13 January 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20120729221927/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1927006,00.html 29 July 2012 dead dmy-all http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1934275,00.html Game off 16 January 2010 Luton Town F.C 18 January 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100119181510/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1934275%2C00.html 19 January 2010 dead dmy-all In contrast, the first 23 league games had been played over a period of five months. Experienced trio Kevin Nicholls, Alan White and Kevin Gallen were placed on the transfer list by Richard Money on 12 January.http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Town-trio-transfer-listed.5975544.jp Town trio transfer listed 12 January 2010 Luton Today Johnston Press 13 January 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100116163329/http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Town-trio-transfer-listed.5975544.jp 16 January 2010 live White joined his previous club Darlington on loan for the rest of the season three days later.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1933588,00.html White loaned to Quakers 15 January 2010 Luton Town F.C 18 January 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100118100441/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1933588%2C00.html 18 January 2010 dead dmy-all Midfielder Keith Keane, who had started his career with Luton, was placed on the transfer list on 15 January. Keane's refusal to sign a new contract, which would expire at the end of the season and effectively mean he would leave the club on a free transfer, was cited as the reason.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/PreMatchAnalysis/0,,10372~1933756,00.html Money mindful of Salisbury threat 15 January 2010 Luton Town F.C 18 January 2010 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20100124112328/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/PreMatchAnalysis/0%2C%2C10372~1933756%2C00.html 24 January 2010 Striker Mark Nwokeji, meanwhile, extended his loan agreement with Luton until the end of the season, while the permanent transfers of Matthew Barnes-Homer and Fred Murray, who had both previously been playing for the club on loan, were confirmed.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1930981,00.html Trio commit their futures 12 January 2010 Luton Town F.C 13 January 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100116130320/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1930981%2C00.html 16 January 2010 dead On 22 January, York City winger Craig Nelthorpe signed for Luton on loan for the rest of the season.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1940950,00.html Hatters loan left winger 22 January 2010 Luton Town F.C 24 January 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100125171655/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1940950%2C00.html 25 January 2010 dead dmy-all He made his debut one day later as a substitute in a 1–0 victory over Gateshead – Luton's first game in 21 days. Hungarian central defender János Kovács was signed on a free transfer from Lincoln City on 26 January. Kovács signed a five-month contract until the end of the season.Luton Town sign Lincoln City's Janos Kovacs http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/lincoln_city/8470531.stm BBC Sport 26 January 2010 26 January 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100124124235/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/lincoln_city/8470531.stm 24 January 2010 live He started in the team, and scored the opening goal, in a 2–0 win over Histon a day later. This game also saw Liam Hatch make his first appearance in nearly four months upon his return from an ankle injury. Luton fell to their fourth home defeat of the season with a 3–2 loss against Ebbsfleet United on 30 January, Hatch scoring his first goal for the club. February A busy February period of six games in three weeks started with a 1–0 away win over Barrow, Hatch once again scoring. A 2–1 win over league leaders Oxford United was secured on 9 February, with Luton scoring both goals in added time – the winner was scored by captain Keith Keane direct from a corner in the last minute of the game, which propelled the club into the play-off positions for the first time since early November. Keane was then sent off for celebrating the goal with Luton fans. This game also saw the highest turnout at Kenilworth Road in over two seasons, with 8,860 fans in attendance.Luton Town 2–1 Oxford United http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8493578.stm BBC Sport 9 February 2010 10 February 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100212064600/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8493578.stm 12 February 2010 live Four days later, Luton won a third consecutive game with a 1–0 away victory over Eastbourne Borough, an Asa Hall strike from 25 yards proving the match winner.Eastbourne Borough 0–1 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8494273.stm BBC Sport 13 February 2010 14 February 2010 Luton's ten-game unbeaten away record in the league continued with a 0–0 draw at their promotion rivals York City on 16 February, pushing the club up to fourth place in the table. The club's poor league form at Kenilworth Road, in which only three games out of ten had ended in Luton winning, continued with a fifth home defeat – a 2–1 loss to AFC Wimbledon. Tom Craddock scored his tenth goal of the season for Luton, making him the top scorer at the club. A loss to Crawley Town left Luton in fifth place in the table, and also saw the club's record-equalling run of away form come to an end. March The backlog of postponed games from the winter period meant Luton were to play 8 games over March. This began with a 0–0 draw away to Mansfield Town on 2 March, with a 3–2 victory over Hayes & Yeading United coming four days later. A last minute winner from Tom Craddock in a 2–1 victory over Forest Green Rovers on 9 March propelled Luton to third place in the table, the club's highest position since early September. On 12 March 2010, Luton signed midfielder Simon Heslop from Championship side Barnsley on a 28-day emergency loan.Luton Town sign Barnsley's Simon Heslop on loan http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8564082.stm BBC Sport 12 March 2010 12 March 2010 He played in a 1–0 victory over Wrexham a day later as Luton kept their first home clean sheet since September 2009.Luton Town 1–0 Wrexham http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8550109.stm BBC Sport 13 March 2010 14 March 2010 A third home game in a row on 16 March resulted in a 3–1 victory over Kidderminster Harriers, Kevin Gallen scoring twice.Luton Town 3–1 Kidderminster Harriers http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8558415.stm BBC Sport 16 March 2010 16 March 2010 https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20100316054241/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_conf/8558415.stm 16 March 2010 live Luton recorded their biggest win of the season on 20 March, with a 6–1 victory away at Ebbsfleet United. Winger Claude Gnakpa scored a hat-trick in the club's biggest victory since a 5–0 win over Bristol City in 2005.Ebbsfleet United 1–6 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8560808.stm BBC Sport 20 March 2010 20 March 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100323094043/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8560808.stm 23 March 2010 live Richard Money added two players to the squad before the loan and free transfer deadline on 25 March. Kenyan international striker Taiwo Atieno, who started his career when Money was manager of Walsall and had most recently played football in the US, was signed on a free transfer until the end of the season. Defender Gavin Caines was signed on loan until the end of the season from Kidderminster Harriers, where he had been a regular member of the squad.Kidderminster loan defender Gavin Caines to Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8587444.stm BBC Sport 25 March 2010 26 March 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100329172356/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8587444.stm 29 March 2010 live Luton's 6–1 winning result the previous week was then bettered with an emphatic 8–0 home victory over Hayes & Yeading United on 27 March.Luton Town 8–0 Hayes & Yeading http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8568443.stm BBC Sport 27 March 2010 27 March 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100329191047/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8568443.stm 29 March 2010 live The club's run of goals continued three days later with a 4–0 win against Salisbury City, their seventh consecutive victory.Luton Town 4–0 Salisbury City http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8570535.stm BBC Sport 30 March 2010 30 March 2010 https://archive.today/20100403003859/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8570535.stm 3 April 2010 live Luton's good form during the month did not go unnoticed, with Richard Money claiming the March Conference Manager of the Month award, and Claude Gnakpa named as Player of the Month.Money handed March award http://www.bluesqfootball.com/story/0,20970,13040_6078692,00.html Blue Sq 6 April 2010 6 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100410022322/http://www.bluesqfootball.com/story/0%2C20970%2C13040_6078692%2C00.html 10 April 2010 deadGnakpa scoops player of the month http://www.bluesqfootball.com/story/0,20970,13040_6078676,00.html Blue Sq 6 April 2010 6 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100410022428/http://www.bluesqfootball.com/story/0%2C20970%2C13040_6078676%2C00.html 10 April 2010 dead April Luton, who were at this point second in the table, faced a key clash with league leaders Stevenage Borough on 3 April. Luton secured a 1–0 win at Broadhall Way in a tightly contested game, Matthew Barnes-Homer scoring the winning goal just moments after his introduction as a substitute, and inflicted Stevenage's first home defeat since November 2008. Luton were now only two points behind Stevenage, though the leaders had a game in hand.Stevenage Borough 0–1 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8583824.stm BBC Sport 3 April 2010 3 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100403055255/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8583824.stm 3 April 2010 live A ninth consecutive victory was assured two days later as Luton beat already relegated side Grays Athletic 6–0 at Kenilworth Road, with Kevin Gallen scoring the first hat-trick of his career. Luton's nine game-winning run was halted on 10 April with a 1–1 draw away to Tamworth, which saw the club fall to four points behind leaders Stevenage.Tamworth 1–1 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8605383.stm BBC Sport 10 April 2010 11 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100413082909/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8605383.stm 13 April 2010 live However, Luton's scoring form soon returned in a 6–3 home win against Histon three days later – a game that marked Tom Craddock's first senior hat-trick. A 0–0 home draw on 17 April with Altrincham, coupled with Stevenage's victory over Kidderminster that led to them being crowned as Conference Premier champions, meant that Luton's only hope of promotion was now through the play-offs.Luton Town 0–0 Altrincham http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8618333.stm BBC Sport 17 April 2010 18 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100417055133/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8618333.stm 17 April 2010 live The last league game of the season on 24 April resulted in a 1–1 draw with play-off rivals Rushden & Diamonds, which meant Luton ended the season with a second-place finish. Results elsewhere left Luton to play York City in the two-legged play-off semi-final on 29 April and 3 May.Rushden & Diamonds 1–1 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8620958.stm BBC Sport 24 April 2010 24 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100427025518/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8620958.stm 27 April 2010 live Luton lost the first leg at Bootham Crescent 1–0, an 89th-minute goal from Richard Brodie leaving them having to win the return game to have any chance of playing in the final.York City 1–0 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8643867.stm BBC Sport 29 April 2010 30 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100429033616/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8643867.stm 29 April 2010 live May Another 1–0 defeat in the home leg knocked Luton out of the play-offs, condemning them to at least another season in the Conference Premier.Luton Town 0–1 York City http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8643892.stm BBC Sport 3 May 2010 3 May 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100506041650/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8643892.stm 6 May 2010 live The clear out of players began on 7 May as Luton prepared for their second season in the division. Four players – Steve Basham, Shane Gore, Asa Hall and Rossi Jarvis – were released from their contracts, while a further four – Gavin Caines, Liam Hatch, Craig Nelthorpe and Mark Nwokeji – left the club as their loan period had ended.Town release quartet http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~2046279,00.html Luton Town F.C. 7 May 2010 7 May 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100509023357/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~2046279%2C00.html 9 May 2010 dead As well as the changes to playing staff, the coaching staff were also subject to restructuring in the wake of the season ending. Chief scout Gary Brabin was promoted to the role of assistant manager, replacing Alan Neilson. Neilson was instead appointed to a coaching and youth development role, while first-team coach Kevin Watson left the club.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~2049109,00.html Backroom staff changes revealed 11 May 2010 Luton Town F.C. 11 May 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100514110007/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~2049109%2C00.html 14 May 2010 dead Luton made their first signing of the season on 19 May, with Cambridge United defender Dan Gleeson making the move to Kenilworth Road on a free transfer.Luton Town sign Cambridge United defender Dan Gleeson http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8692681.stm BBC Sport 19 May 2010 21 May 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100522231545/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8692681.stm 22 May 2010 live Goalkeeper and former loanee Kevin Pilkington signed a permanent one-year contract a day later, having been released from Notts County. Striker Danny Crow, who had finished the season as Cambridge United's top scorer, signed on a free transfer on 21 May, penning a two-year contract.http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8696736.stm Luton Town sign Danny Crow and Kevin Pilkington 21 May 2010 21 May 2010 BBC Sport https://web.archive.org/web/20100524130349/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8696736.stm 24 May 2010 live Luton were also boosted by Player of the Year George Pilkington and 18-goal striker Kevin Gallen signing contract extensions.Luton skipper George Pilkington signs new two-year deal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8690135.stm BBC Sport 18 May 2010 21 May 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100523022739/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8690135.stm 23 May 2010 livehttp://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~2055598,00.html Gallen agrees 12-month deal Luton Town F.C. 19 May 2010 19 May 2010 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20100522003633/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~2055598%2C00.html 22 May 2010 On 27 May, Luton announced they were to sign Stevenage midfielder Andy Drury, who had played 30 league games during the season as the club claimed the Conference title, on a two-year contract beginning from 1 July 2010.http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8709897.stm Luton Town sign Stevenage winger Andy Drury BBC Sport 28 May 2010 28 May 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100531191253/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8709897.stm 31 May 2010 live Striker Ryan Charles and defender George Beavan were released from the club on 31 May.http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8714280.stm Luton Town release Ryan Charles and George Beavan BBC Sport 31 May 2010 31 May 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100604053822/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8714280.stm 4 June 2010 live June On 9 June, midfielder Keith Keane signed a new two-year contract.Keane pens two-year deal http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~2067649,00.html Luton Town F.C. 9 June 2010 10 June 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100612090800/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~2067649%2C00.html 12 June 2010 dead On 28 June, defender János Kovács left the club and signed for Hereford United on a two-year contract.Hereford United sign defender Janos Kovacs http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/h/hereford_united/8769528.stm BBC Sport 28 June 2010 28 June 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100701080732/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/h/hereford_united/8769528.stm 1 July 2010 live Match results Luton Town results given first. Legend WinDrawLoss Pre-season South West Challenge Cup +RoundDateOpponentVenueResultAttendanceScorersNotesGroup C15 July 2009BidefordAway3–0 513Craddock (2), Talbot Group C17 July 2009Wycombe WanderersNeutralCancelled – – Semi-final18 July 2009Exeter CityNeutral 3–2 532 Hatch, Craddock, Talbot Final19 July 2009MontegnéeNeutral3–1331 Craddock, own goal, Hall Friendlies +DateOpponentVenueResultAttendanceScorersNotes10 July 2009St Neots TownAway3–1864White, Newton, Hunter 21 July 2009Swindon TownHome0–11,524 – 22 July 2009Hitchin TownAway0–1 340 – Luton XI25 July 2009Peterborough United XIHome 3–0 1,598 Craddock, Hall, Watkins 25 July 2009Spalding UnitedAway 4–1 89 Walker (2), Williams (2) Luton XI28 July 2009Manchester United XIHome1–2 7,480 Hall 29 July 2009Biggleswade TownAway 2–2 289 Mkoloma, Barker Luton XI Bedfordshire Premier Cup Finalpens1 A1 August 2009Hampton & RichmondAway0–1 397 – Conference Premier information on this season's Conference Premier 2009–10 Football Conference Conference Premier LUT +DateOpponentVenueResultAttendanceScorersNotes|8 August 2009 |AFC Wimbledon |align="center"|Away |align="center"|1–1 |align="center"|4,488 |align="center"|Craddock (pen) |align="center"||11 August 2009 |Mansfield Town |align="center"|Home |align="center"|4–1 |align="center"|7,295 |align="center"|Pilkington (2), own goal, Craddock (pen) |align="center"||15 August 2009 |Gateshead |align="center"|Home |align="center"|2–1 |align="center"|6,829 |align="center"|Hall, Gallen |align="center"||18 August 2009 |Forest Green Rovers |align="center"|Away |align="center"|1–0 |align="center"|1,805 |align="center"|Craddock |align="center"||22 August 2009 |Chester City |align="center"|Home |align="center"|0–0 |align="center"|6,563 |align="center"|– |align="center"|Chester B|29 August 2009 |Kettering Town |align="center"|Away |align="center"|0–0 |align="center"|3,266 |align="center"|– |align="center"||1 September 2009 |Crawley Town |align="center"|Home |align="center"|3–0 |align="center"|6,389 |align="center"|Pilkington (2), Craddock |align="center"||5 September 2009 |Salisbury City |align="center"|Away |align="center"|1–1 |align="center"|2,044 |align="center"|Gallen |align="center"|Salisbury City 1–1 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8234500.stm BBC Sport 5 September 2009 7 September 2009|8 September 2009 |Oxford United |align="center"|Away |align="center"|0–2 |align="center"|10,613 |align="center"|– |align="center"||12 September 2009 |Barrow |align="center"|Home |align="center"|1–0 |align="center"|6,264 |align="center"|Newton |align="center"|Luton Town 1–0 Barrow http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8246345.stm BBC Sport 12 September 2009 12 September 2009|22 September 2009 |Wrexham |align="center"|Away |align="center"|0–3 |align="center"|3,448 |align="center"|– |align="center"||26 September 2009 |Cambridge United |align="center"|Away |align="center"|4–3 |align="center"|4,870 |align="center"|Gallen (2), Jarvis, Howells |align="center"||29 September 2009 |Stevenage Borough |align="center"|Home |align="center"|0–1 |align="center"|8,223 |align="center"|– |align="center"||3 October 2009 |Tamworth |align="center"|Home |align="center"|2–1 |align="center"|6,297 |align="center"|Hall, Wright |align="center"||10 October 2009 |Kidderminster Harriers |align="center"|Away |align="center"|2–1 |align="center"|2,927 |align="center"|Newton, Charles |align="center"|Kidderminster Harriers 1–2 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8294563.stm BBC Sport 10 October 2009 10 October 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091013095912/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8294563.stm 13 October 2009 live|17 October 2009 |Altrincham |align="center"|Away |align="center"|1–0 |align="center"|1,762 |align="center"|Craddock (pen) |align="center"|Altrincham 0–1 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8295743.stm BBC Sport 17 October 2009 17 October 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091017101403/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8295743.stm 17 October 2009 live|20 October 2009 |York City |align="center"|Home |align="center"|1–1 |align="center"|6,387 |align="center"|Hall |align="center"|Luton Town 1–1 York City http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8306466.stm BBC Sport 20 October 2009 20 October 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091020101803/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8306466.stm 20 October 2009 live|31 October 2009 |Rushden & Diamonds |align="center"|Home |align="center"|0–2 |align="center"|7,101 |align="center"|– |align="center"||14 November 2009 |Grays Athletic |align="center"|Away |align="center"|2–0 |align="center"|1,668 |align="center"|Craddock, Gallen |align="center"|Grays Athletic 0–2 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8326635.stm BBC Sport 14 November 2009 14 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091117103031/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8326635.stm 17 November 2009 live|21 November 2009 |Cambridge United |align="center"|Home |align="center"|2–2 |align="center"|7,458 |align="center"|Gnakpa, Craddock |align="center"|Luton Town 2–2 Cambridge United http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8353496.stm BBC Sport 21 November 2009 21 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091124005832/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8353496.stm 24 November 2009 live|2 December 2009 |Kettering Town |align="center"|Home |align="center"|0–1 |align="center"|6,608 |align="center"|– |align="center"|Luton Town 0–1 Kettering Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8377501.stm BBC Sport 2 December 2009 2 December 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091205154853/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8377501.stm 5 December 2009 live|5 December 2009 |Chester City |align="center"|Away |align="center"|0–0 |align="center"|1,352 |align="center"|– |align="center"|Chester City 0–0 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8377464.stm BBC Sport 5 December 2009 5 December 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091208124659/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8377464.stm 8 December 2009 liveChester B|28 December 2009 |Eastbourne Borough |align="center"|Home |align="center"|4–1 |align="center"|6,646 |align="center"|Barnes-Homer, Gallen (2), Jarvis |align="center"|Luton Town 4–1 Eastbourne Borough http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8423426.stm BBC Sport 28 December 2009 28 December 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091228052822/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8423426.stm 28 December 2009 live|23 January 2010 |Gateshead |align="center"|Away |align="center"|1–0 |align="center"|1,218 |align="center"|Own goal |align="center"|Gateshead 0–1 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8459846.stm BBC Sport 23 January 2010 24 January 2010 https://archive.today/20100125202342/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8459846.stm 25 January 2010 live|27 January 2010 |Histon |align="center"|Away |align="center"|2–0 |align="center"|1,543 |align="center"|Kovács, Hall |align="center"|Histon 0–2 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8468467.stm BBC Sport 27 January 2010 27 January 2010|30 January 2010 |Ebbsfleet United |align="center"|Home |align="center"|2–3 |align="center"|6,658 |align="center"|Hatch, Craddock |align="center"|Luton Town 2–3 Ebbsfleet United http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8481595.stm BBC Sport 30 January 2010 30 January 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100202081438/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8481595.stm 2 February 2010 live|6 February 2010 |Barrow |align="center"|Away |align="center"|1–0 |align="center"|1,579 |align="center"|Hatch |align="center"|Barrow 0–1 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8490331.stm BBC Sport 6 February 2010 6 February 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100210022029/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8490331.stm 10 February 2010 live|9 February 2010 |Oxford United |align="center"|Home |align="center"|2–1 |align="center"|8,860 |align="center"|Pilkington, Keane |align="center"||13 February 2010 |Eastbourne Borough |align="center"|Away |align="center"|1–0 |align="center"|2,018 |align="center"|Hall |align="center"||16 February 2010 |York City |align="center"|Away |align="center"|0–0 |align="center"|3,316 |align="center"|– |align="center"|York City 0–0 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8516160.stm BBC Sport 16 February 2010 16 February 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100216053737/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8516160.stm 16 February 2010 live|20 February 2010 |AFC Wimbledon |align="center"|Home |align="center"|1–2 |align="center"|7,736 |align="center"|Craddock |align="center"|Luton Town 1–2 AFC Wimbledon http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8523809.stm BBC Sport 20 February 2010 20 February 2010|27 February 2010 |Crawley Town |align="center"|Away |align="center"|1–2 |align="center"|2,118 |align="center"|Barnes-Homer |align="center"|Crawley Town 1–2 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8499225.stm BBC Sport 27 February 2010 27 February 2010|2 March 2010 |Mansfield Town |align="center"|Away |align="center"|0–0 |align="center"|3,407 |align="center"|– |align="center"|Mansfield Town 0–0 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8511565.stm BBC Sport 2 March 2010 2 March 2010|6 March 2010 |Hayes & Yeading |align="center"|Away |align="center"|3–2 |align="center"|1,881 |align="center"|Hatch, Gnakpa (pen), Craddock |align="center"|Hayes & Yeading 2–3 Luton Town http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8541706.stm BBC Sport 6 March 2010 6 March 2010|9 March 2010 |Forest Green Rovers |align="center"|Home |align="center"|2–1 |align="center"|5,884 |align="center"|Craddock (2) |align="center"|Luton Town 2–1 Forest Green Rovers http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8542039.stm BBC Sport 9 March 2010 9 March 2010 https://archive.today/20100313044110/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8542039.stm 13 March 2010 live|13 March 2010 |Wrexham |align="center"|Home |align="center"|1–0 |align="center"|6,538 |align="center"|Craddock |align="center"||16 March 2010 |Kidderminster Harriers |align="center"|Home |align="center"|3–1 |align="center"|5,908 |align="center"|Howells, Gallen (2) |align="center"||20 March 2010 |Ebbsfleet United |align="center"|Away |align="center"|6–1 |align="center"|1,923 |align="center"|Gnakpa (3), Gallen, Craddock, Barnes-Homer |align="center"||27 March 2010 |Hayes & Yeading |align="center"|Home |align="center"|8–0 |align="center"|6,761 |align="center"|Gallen (2), Gnakpa (2), Keane, Craddock (2), Howells |align="center"||30 March 2010 |Salisbury City |align="center"|Home |align="center"|4–0 |align="center"|6,692 |align="center"|Gnakpa, Craddock, Howells, Heslop |align="center"||3 April 2010 |Stevenage Borough |align="center"|Away |align="center"|1–0 |align="center"|7,024 |align="center"|Barnes-Homer |align="center"||5 April 2010 |Grays Athletic |align="center"|Home |align="center"|6–0 |align="center"|7,860 |align="center"|Craddock (2), Gallen (3), Hatch |align="center"|Luton Town 6–0 Grays Athletic http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8595640.stm BBC Sport 5 April 2010 5 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100409141155/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8595640.stm 9 April 2010 live|10 April 2010 |Tamworth |align="center"|Away |align="center"|1–1 |align="center"|2,246 |align="center"|Pilkington |align="center"||13 April 2010 |Histon |align="center"|Home |align="center"|6–3 |align="center"|7,083 |align="center"|Howells (2), Craddock (3), Gallen |align="center"|Luton Town 6–3 Histon http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8615286.stm BBC Sport 13 April 2010 13 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100415162711/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8615286.stm 15 April 2010 live|17 April 2010 |Altrincham |align="center"|Home |align="center"|0–0 |align="center"|7,374 |align="center"|– |align="center"||24 April 2010 |Rushden & Diamonds |align="center"|Away |align="center"|1–1 |align="center"|4,820 |align="center"|Craddock |align="center"| Conference Premier play-offs +RoundDateOpponentVenueResultAttendanceScorersNotes|Semi-final First Leg |29 April 2010 |York City |align="center"|Away |align="center"|0–1 |align="center"|6,204 |align="center"|– |align="center"||Semi-final Second Leg |3 May 2010 |York City |align="center"|Home |align="center"|0–1 |align="center"|9,781 |align="center"|– |align="center"| FA Cup information on this season's FA Cup 2009–10 FA Cup +RoundDateOpponentVenueResultAttendanceScorersNotes|Fourth qualifying round |24 October 2009 |Grays Athletic |align="center"|Home |align="center"|3–0 |align="center"|2,721 |align="center"|Blackett, own goal, Hall |align="center"|Luton 3–0 Grays http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8324452.stm BBC Sport 24 October 2009 25 October 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091028150216/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8324452.stm 28 October 2009 live|First round |7 November 2009 |Rochdale |align="center"|Home |align="center"|3–3 |align="center"|3,167 |align="center"|Basham (2), Newton |align="center"|Luton 3–3 Rochdale http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/8341071.stm BBC Sport 7 November 2009 8 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091107103022/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/8341071.stm 7 November 2009 live|First round replay |11 November 2009 |Rochdale |align="center"|Away |align="center"|2–0 |align="center"|1,982 |align="center"|Gallen (2) |align="center"|Rochdale 0–2 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/8352965.stm BBC Sport 11 November 2009 11 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091114115309/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/8352965.stm 14 November 2009 live|Second round |28 November 2009 |Rotherham United |align="center"|Away |align="center"|2–2 |align="center"|3,210 |align="center"|Craddock (pen), Nwokeji |align="center"|Rotherham 2–2 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/8379495.stm BBC Sport 28 November 2009 28 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091130084508/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/8379495.stm 30 November 2009 live|Second round replay |8 December 2009 |Rotherham United |align="center"|Home |align="center"|3–0 |align="center"|2,518 |align="center"|Newton, White, Gnakpa |align="center"|Luton 3–0 Rotherham http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/8399559.stm BBC Sport 8 December 2009 8 December 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091213131451/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/8399559.stm 13 December 2009 live|Third round |2 January 2010 |Southampton |align="center"|Away |align="center"|0–1 |align="center"|18,786 |align="center"|– |align="center"|Southampton 1–0 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/8433989.stm BBC Sport 2 January 2010 2 January 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100114071802/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/8433989.stm 14 January 2010 live FA Trophy information on this season's FA Trophy 2009–10 FA Trophy +RoundDateOpponentVenueResultAttendanceScorersNotes|First round |12 December 2009 |Cambridge United |align="center"|Away |align="center"|1–3 |align="center"|1,665 |align="center"|Own goal |align="center"| Player statistics Correct as of 3 May 2010. Players with a zero in every column only appeared as unused substitutes. No.Pos.NameLeague*FA CupFA TrophyTotalDisciplineAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoals13px13px1GKENG Mark Tyler3901000400102DFENG Ed Asafu-Adjaye18 (2)02 (1)00020 (3)0203DFIRL Lewis Emanuel1 (1)0000 (1)01 (2)0004MFIRL Keith Keane3523010392915DFHUN János Kovács1710000171305DFENG Alan White1605110221406DFENG George Pilkington4666010536407MFSKN Adam Newton34 (3)25 (1)21040 (4)4418MFENG Kevin Nicholls2204010270519FWENG Liam Hatch10 (11)4000010 (11)48110FWENG Tom Craddock42 (4)233 (2)10 (1)045 (7)247011MFENG Andy Burgess5 (1)030008 (1)00011FWKEN Taiwo Atieno000000000012DFENG Shane Blackett15 (10)0511021 (10)12113GKENG Shane Gore0 (1)020002 (1)00014MFENG Asa Hall27 (6)53 (2)10030 (8)61015DFENG Jake Howells23 (10)63 (3)00026 (13)61016MFENG Rossi Jarvis21 (6)2301025 (6)22117FWENG Ryan Charles0 (6)11 (1)0001 (7)10018DFFRA Claude Gnakpa28 (9)83 (3)11032 (12)96019FWENG Steve Basham0 (5)012001 (5)20020FWENG Kevin Gallen32 (1)16621039 (1)182021DFENG Callum Reynolds3 (2)010004 (2)02122FWENG George Donnelly0 (4)000000 (4)00022MFENG Craig Nelthorpe0 (8)000000 (8)00023DFIRL Fred Murray40 (2)0301044 (2)08024FWENG Ben Wright4 (1)100004 (1)10024DFENG Gavin Caines000000000025DFENG George Beavan000000000026GKENG Kevin Pilkington7030101101027FWENG Mark Nwokeji0 (7)00 (2)1000 (9)10028MFENG Ashley Cain000000000029FWENG Matthew Barnes-Homer8 (16)4000 (1)08 (17)41030MFENG Adam Watkins000 (1)0000 (1)00031FWENG Jordan Patrick000000000032DFENG Jack Wood000000000033MFENG Taylor Nathaniel000 (1)0000 (1)00034MFENG Sam Barker000000000035MFENG Simon Heslop13100001311036DFENG Alex Lacey000000000037MFENG Godfrey Poku0000000000 *The league column also includes play-off matches. Managerial statistics Only competitive games from the 2009–10 season are included. Correct as of 3 May 2010. NameNat.FromToRecordHonoursPLDWDLGFGAGDW%Mick HarfordENG16 January 20081 October 2009 12 6 3 3 17 13 yes 1–Alan Neilson (caretaker)WAL1 October 200930 October 2009 5 4 1 0 9 3 yes 1–Richard MoneyENG30 October 2009Present 36 19 8 9 72 35 yes 1Conference Premier runners-upTotal 53 29 12 12 98 51 yes 1Conference Premier runners-up Awards Awarded on 25 April 2010.Awards a plenty for Pilks http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~2035210,00.html Luton Town F.C. 25 April 2010 30 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100429092309/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~2035210%2C00.html 29 April 2010 dead AwardNameNo.Pos.NotesLuton Town Supporters Club Player of the YearENG George Pilkington6DFPlayers' Player of the YearENG George Pilkington6DFYoung Player of the YearENG Jake Howells15MFInternet Player of the YearENG George Pilkington6DFLTSC Junior Members' Player of the YearENG George Pilkington6DFGoal of the SeasonIRL Keith Keane4MFkeane F Transfers In DatePlayerFromFeeNotes 22 July 2009 England Shane Blackett Peterborough United FreeBlackettTransfer C 6 August 2009 England Steve Basham Unattached 7 August 2009 England Shane Gore Unattached 5 January 2010 England Jonathan O'Donnell St Albans City Free 5 January 2010 England Godfrey Poku St Albans City Free 13 January 2010 England Matthew Barnes-Homer Kidderminster Harriers UndisclosedMBHfee D LoanDeadline E 13 January 2010 Ireland Fred Murray Grays Athletic Free 26 January 2010 Hungary János Kovács Lincoln City Free 23 March 2010 Kenya Taiwo Atieno Unattached 19 May 2010 England Dan Gleeson Cambridge United Free 20 May 2010 England Kevin Pilkington Notts County Free 21 May 2010 England Danny Crow Cambridge United Free Out DatePlayerToFeeNotes 8 July 2009 England Riccardo Biggi Released 8 July 2009 England Mark Farthing Released 8 July 2009 England Ian Henderson Ankaragücü Free 8 July 2009 England Harry Hogarth Released 29 July 2009 England Drew Talbot Chesterfield Free 30 July 2009 England Ian Roper Kettering Town Free 1 January 2010 England Andy Burgess Mansfield Town Undisclosed LoanDeadline E 7 May 2010 England Steve Basham Released 7 May 2010 England Shane Gore Released 7 May 2010 England Asa Hall Released 7 May 2010 England Rossi Jarvis Released 31 May 2010 England George Beavan Released 31 May 2010 England Ryan Charles Released 28 June 2010 Hungary János Kovács Hereford United Free Loans in DatePlayerFromEnd dateNotes 27 July 2009 England Callum Reynolds Portsmouth 19 January 2010 11 August 2009 Ireland Fred Murray Grays Athletic 13 January 2010 28 August 2009 England George Donnelly Plymouth Argyle 29 September 2009 29 September 2009 England Ben Wright Peterborough United 23 October 2009 12 November 2009 England Mark Nwokeji Dagenham & Redbridge 7 May 2010 12 November 2009 England Kevin Pilkington Notts County 12 February 2010 26 November 2009 England Matthew Barnes-Homer Kidderminster Harriers 13 January 2010 LoanDeadline E 26 November 2009 England Ashley Cain Coventry City 31 December 2009 22 January 2010 England Craig Nelthorpe York City 7 May 2010 12 March 2010 England Simon Heslop Barnsley 7 May 2010 25 March 2010 England Gavin Caines Kidderminster Harriers 7 May 2010 Loans out DatePlayerToEnd dateNotes 17 August 2009 England George Beavan Grays Athletic 19 December 2009 Three more added to Grays squad http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/g/grays_athletic/8205401.stm BBC Sport 17 August 2009 17 August 2009 26 November 2009 England Steve Basham Hayes & Yeading United 7 May 2010 26 November 2009 England Andy Burgess Mansfield Town 1 January 2010 LoanDeadline E 26 November 2009 England Ryan Charles Kidderminster Harriers 28 December 2009 15 January 2010 England Alan White Darlington 7 May 2010 30 January 2010 England Jonathan O'Donnell St Albans City 26 February 2010 30 January 2010 England Godfrey Poku St Albans City 26 February 2010 See also List of Luton Town F.C. seasons Footnotes A. pens1 Luton lost 4–1 in a penalty shootout. B. Chester Chester City were expelled from the Football Conference on 26 February 2010 for numerous rule breaches.Chester City expelled from Football Conference http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/chester/8538236.stm BBC Sport 8 March 2010 26 February 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100304233243/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/chester/8538236.stm 4 March 2010 live After the club made a decision not to appeal, their results were expunged from the league on 8 March 2010, meaning Luton lost the 2 points gained from their matches with Chester. In addition, player appearance data for both games was wiped from the record.Chester City results erased from Blue Square Premier http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8499219.stm BBC 8 March 2010 8 March 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100313133459/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8499219.stm 13 March 2010 live C. BlackettTransfer Shane Blackett's transfer was funded from the proceeds of a friendly match between Luton Town and a Peterborough United XI on 25 July 2009. D. MBHfee The fee for the transfer of Matthew Barnes-Homer is believed to be a five-figure amount in the region of £75,000, though no official confirmation has yet been released.Harriers had to let star striker go http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Harriers-had-to-let-star.5893964.jp Luton Today Johnston Press 8 December 2009 1 January 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100115065605/http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Harriers-had-to-let-star.5893964.jp 15 January 2010 dead E. LoanDeadline Matthew Barnes-Homer's and Andy Burgess' transfers became permanent during the January transfer window. Until then, they played for the club they were joining on loan. F. keane The goal of the season was chosen as Keith Keane's last minute winning goal direct from a corner on 9 February in a 2–1 victory against Oxford United. References General Luton Town F.C. Official Website Specific 2009-10 Category:2009–10 Football Conference by team