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Club History

Over 100 years of Riverside FC

The Early Years (1923-1950)

Riverside FC was founded in 1923 by workers from the Riverside Iron Works, who formed a team to compete in the local works league. The original colours were plain white shirts with black shorts.

In 1925, the club moved to its current home at Riverside Stadium — then a simple roped-off pitch beside the river. The first grandstand was built in 1928 using materials donated by local businesses.

The club joined the Regional League in 1932 and won its first trophy — the County Amateur Cup — in 1937.

Post-War Growth (1950-1980)

Following World War II, football boomed nationally, and Riverside benefited from increased attendances. The club's record attendance of 3,847 was set in 1957 for an FA Cup tie against Leyton Orient.

The 1960s saw the club struggle financially, and only a supporter-led fundraising campaign saved it from folding in 1968. This led to the formation of the Supporters' Trust, which would later play a crucial role in the club's future.

The Modern Era (1980-Present)

1980s-1990s

  • 1985: Floodlights installed at Riverside Stadium
  • 1991: Youth Academy formally established
  • 1998: Club achieves FA Charter Standard status

2000s

  • 2003: New clubhouse and changing rooms opened
  • 2007: Riverside FC becomes a Community Benefit Society, owned by fans
  • 2009: Women's section pilot programme launched

2010s-Present

  • 2012: Training ground acquired on 25-year lease
  • 2018: Women's First Team enters County League
  • 2021: 3G pitch installed at training ground
  • 2023: Club celebrates centenary with commemorative matches and events
  • 2024: Women's First Team wins County League title

Honours

First Team

CompetitionYears
Regional Premier League1958, 1972, 1991
County Senior Cup1937, 1959, 1973, 1992, 2008
Regional League Cup1969, 1985, 2003

Women's First Team

CompetitionYears
County Women's League2025
County Women's Cup-

Club Records

  • Record attendance: 3,847 vs Leyton Orient (FA Cup, 1957)
  • Record victory: 11-0 vs Eastfield Town (County Cup, 1959)
  • Record defeat: 0-7 vs Northern City (League, 1946)
  • Most appearances: Terry Mitchell (487, 1968-1984)
  • Most goals: Brian Edwards (186, 1955-1968)