HONOURS & WHO’S WHO Pre 1998 Merger
Post 1998 Merger
Doncaster & District Senior League
Wilkinson Sword Trophy Runners-Up 2010-11
as Rossington Main FC (formed 1919)
Northern Counties East League
Champions 1944-45 Cup Winners 1944-45 Premier Division Cup Winners 1973-74
Doncaster & District FA Challenge Cup
Central Midlands Football League
Doncaster & District Senior League
Premier Division Champions 1984-85 Premier Division Cup Winners 1984-85
Winners 2002-03
Doncaster & District Sunday Alliance League Shield Winners 1990-91 Shield Runners up 1989-90
Champions 1999-2000 Runners-up 2011-12 Cup Winners 1999-2000 Premier Division KO Cup Winners 2010-11 Premier Division KO Cup Runners-up 2005-06 Division 1 Cup Runners-up 1998-99
as Rossington/Station FC (formed 1974)
Doncaster & District Boys Sunday League
Central Midlands Football League
Premier Division Runners up 1992-93 Division 1 Champions 1987-88 Division 1 Cup Runners-up 1986-87, 87-88 Reserve Division 1 Cup Winners 1987-88 Reserve Division 2 Champions 1986-87 Reserve Division 2 Cup Winners 1986-87 Division 1 Sportsmanship Award 1986, 87, 88
Doncaster Senior League
Division 1 Cup Winners 1997-98 Division 1 Cup Runners up 1985-86 Division 2 Runners up 1982-83
Doncaster & District Sunday Alliance League Premier Division Champions 1986-87, 88-89, 89-90 KO Cup Winners 1983-84, 89-90 KO Shield Winners 1986-87 KO Cup Runners up 1988-89 Division 1 Runners up 1992-93
Sheffield & Hallamshire Junior League Junior Shield Winners 1983-84
Doncaster & District Boys Sunday League Under 18 KO Cup Winners 1991-92 Under 18 Division 3 Runners up 1990-91
Bentley League
Shield Winners 1974-75, 78-79
Retford Sunday League Shield Runners up 1987-88
Views expressed in this programme may not necessarily represent the views of Rossington Main FC.
Under 18 West Champions 1999-2000 Under 18 West Runners-up 2001-02 Under 18 Cup Winners 1998-99, 99-2000, 01-02 Under 18 East Runners-up 1998-99 Under 17 League Runners-up 2008-09 Under 17 Cup Runners-up 2008-09, 10-11
Sheffield & Hallamshire WRAGG League Division 2a Champions 2000-01 Division 1a Runners up 2001-02 League Cup Runners up 2004-05
President Vice President Chairman Secretary Treasurer Asst Treasurer Groundsman Programme Editor Website Editor
Gerald Murden Raymond Hughes Carl Stokes Ged Parsons Tommy Henderson Doug Lawton Ian Wilson Glen Wilson Pete Murden
Committee Members Keith Bell, Dave Billam, Dave Burley, Mick Cooke, Hugh Gibson, Rob Hastie, Alan Jones, Steve Lodge, Steve Pendleton, Carl Simpson, Ian Wilson
1st Team
Manager Steve Lodge Asst. Manager Ian Wilson Asst. Manager Daniel Lodge
2nd Team
Co Manager Keith Bell Co Manager Paul Colley
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CLUB HISTORY Like many local football clubs, the history of Rossington Main FC has been revised several times in recent years. Originally thought to have been formed in 1926, local knowledge has since revised this date to 1919 when ‘Rossington Colliery’ entered the Sheffield Association League, playing their fixtures on ground at the back of the Colliery offices. A club had competed under the Rossington Colliery name in 1917, but only since 1919 has the club been in continued existence. The club moved to their current Oxford Street ground in 1921, and just a few years later enjoyed their best ever run in the FA Cup, reaching the 4th Qualifying Round in the 1924-25 season, where they were beaten 3-0 at Lincoln City. The club continued under the name Rossington Colliery for thirty years, enjoying its most successful season at the end of the Second World War when they did the ‘Doncaster Double’, winning both the Doncaster Senior League and Cup in 1944-45. Following the nationalisation of the mines in 1948, the club endured a change of name to Rossington Miners Welfare, and under this moniker they lifted the Doncaster Senior League Premier Division Cup in 1974. In 1983, now known as Rossington Main, the club became founder members of the Central Midlands League, being promoted to the Premier Division as runners-up in their first season. The following year the club took the top flight by storm, winning the Premier Division title and completing the double with the Premier Division Cup. In 1991, following the erection of floodlights and a new Main Stand at Oxford Street which were christened with a friendly against Leeds United that attracted a crowd of around 1,200, the club made the step up to the Northern Counties East League and have remained in Division One ever since. In 1998, after lengthy negotiations, the club merged with near neighbours Rossington FC. Formed as Station FC in the 1970s (initially changing in a small building at the pub of the same name for games on the adjacent Tornedale field) they had begun life in local Sunday football, but had progressed rapidly, relocating to Rossington Welfare and joining the Central Midlands League in 1986. Here they excelled early on, lifting nine awards in their first two seasons in the league including the Division One title in 1987-88. Rossington FC continued to grow operating four teams; a Sunday side and an Under 18s team flanking their 1st and 2nd teams in the Central Midlands League. But, despite growth and development on the field the club
were unable to match the expectations of the Central Midlands League financially, and in 1998 they elected to leave the league; facilitating the merger. Immediately after the merger Main ran both an over 35s and an under 18s team to much success. The over 35s made good progress in the Wragg Sheffield & Hallamshire League finishing Division 2A Champions in 2001 and Division 1A Runners-up the following year. Whilst the under 18s enjoyed continued success in the Doncaster & District Boys League. The club’s reserves, competing in the Doncaster & District League, have also enjoyed much success since the merger. They achieved a League and Cup Double in 2000, have reached the Cup final on three other occasions in the past decade, and finished as League runners-up just last season. The early years of the 21st century weren’t as kind on the Rossington Main 1st team, but recently the club has enjoyed a revival of fortunes and reasserted itself at the heart of the community. In 2008 much work was done at Oxford Street to bring the club’s home back up to scratch, a job rewarded as the club hosted Doncaster Rovers,in a pre-season friendly.; the gate receipts from which enabled the club to regain a financially sound footing. Further ground improvements have followed each summer, as the club have looked to provide better facilities for players and supporters alike, most notable of which is the new clubhouse which has enabled the club to bring in much needed revenue. The pride in the club’s off the field set-up continued with the club’s programme picking up awards in both 2011 and 2012 whilst edited by Pete Murden. Off field progress has been matched on the pitch too, with Main reaching the final of the Wilkinson Sword Trophy in 2011. And in 2011-12 the club enjoyed its best ever season in the Northern Counties East League, breaking club goalscoring and points records to finish seventh, despite losing 11 members of the 1st team squad along the way. Rossington Main now operates two sides on a Saturday. The aims of the club are to provide a unified approach to football in the village so that there is a natural progression in the development of the game. The club strives to sustain competition at the highest possible and affordable level, to continue to provide excellent facilities for both players and spectators, to give opportunity for local players to progress, to reward loyalty and cater for the progression of football in the community of Rossington.
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
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WELCOME / CONTENTS Goood afternoon and welcome to Oxford Street for this afternoon’s big NCEL Division One game with Hallam. As wever we welcome all connected with today’s visitors - players, officials, management and supporters - to Rossington and hope they enjoy their time here at Oxford Street, albeit perhaps more off the pitch rather than off it. The never-ending winter has seen a large number of postponements in the NCEL lately, so we can be thankful for the excellent maintenance work done by Ian Wilson on the pitch throughout the season. Thanks to Ian’s hard work, where many of our fellow Division One sides now face three games a week in order to complete their fixtures by the extended season deadline, our midweek games remain at a minimum.
As a result of the snow, fost and fog our last three fixtures have all been down here at Oxford Street and perhaps the encouraging performances we’ve seen have not been duly rewarded with victories, with losses to Staveley and Eccleshill following the impressive 5-2 defeat of Yorkshire Amateur. The return of Rossington lad Ben Hunter, who scored two in that victory, has been a welcome boost at a crucial time of year, and hopefully the confidence can continue into our remaining games. When we met Hallam in October both sides were near the foot of the table; hopefully a decent result today can help us follow them up the table and secure our place in the NCEL for next season. Enjoy today’s game; up the Main! Glen Wilson // Programme Editor
Teamsheets for today’s match are available shortly before kick-off from the Main Stand at a nominal fee of 20p. Please try and have the correct change.
INSIDE TODAY’S MAIN ISSUE... 09 10 12 15 16 17 18 21 22 4
On This Day Today’s Visitors Hallam Pen Pictures News Round-Up Main In Action Main in Action Main in Action In Reserve Results & Appearances
24 27 28 30 33 34 36 41 42
Football’s Faults League Tables Results Service Away Day Travel Meet the Main Men Zeph Thomas; International Meet the Main Men Weekend Fixtures Half-Time Teasers
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
ON THIS DAY 2004 //
NCEL DIVISION ONE ROSSINGTON MAIN 3-0 CARLTON TOWN
You can generally tell how harsh a winter has been by looking at the season finish dates for the football season. So whilst the current campaign meanders onwards in snow, snow and more snow, the 2003-04 campaign, courtesy of a comparitively mild winter, actually came to an end on this date.
1996 //
It seems odd that a season would finish just three months into the New Year, but nine years ago the NCEL Division 1 campaign did just that with this midweek, mid-table affair. Already assured of twelfth place The Colliery at least went out in style with a comfortable 3-0 win over a Carlton side who would end the season ninth.
CENTRAL MIDLANDS LEAGUE SUPREME DIVISION ROSSINGTON FC 3-2 KIVETON PARK
A rare home game for Rossington FC seventeen years ago today, with this fixture against Kiveton Park punctuating a sequence of seven league games and a League Cup semifinal all played away from the Welfare grounds.
Robbie Nelson got Rossington off the mark to give ‘the Station’ a 1-0 halftime lead, and though the visitors hit back after the break, further goals from Sean Breen and Gary Mountford maintained Rossington’s one goal advantage to secure all three points.
Having suffered a couple of highscoring away defeats in the weeks prior Rossington were back in winning ways on home turf with this narrow victory.
Of the current Main set-up only assistant manager Ian Wilson was in the Rossington squad, the playermanager an unused substitute,
1991 //
CENTRAL MIDLANDS LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION ROSSINGTON FC 1-2 RADFORD
Nottinghamshire side Radford were the visitors to the village twenty-two years ago today, taking on the premerger Rossington FC on the Welfare Ground in front of a sizable crowd of 98. The visitors would ensure most of those in attendance went home disappointed though as they raced into a 2-0 lead before half-time. Rossington
hit back in the second half, sparking hopes of a come-back as Nigel Feirn struck just after the hour mark, but it would sadly prove to be no more than a consolation goal. The current Main management duo were both in the squad for this one; Steve Lodge in goal and Ian Wilson an unused substitute.
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
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TODAY’S VISITORS A WARM WELCOME TO HALLAM FC In the Pennine Hills to the west of Sheffield stands the Plough Inn alongside the road called Sandygate. In 1804 the landlord of the Inn agreed to use one of his fields for cricket matches and so the Hallam Cricket club was formed.The club was so successful that by the 1850s it had some 300 members, many being familiar with team football as played by Sheffield club, which was formed in 1857. The desire for another, less exclusive football club led the cricketers to form Hallam Football club in 1860 and the first challenge match against Sheffield took place at Sandygate on Boxing Day of that year. The Hallam Football Club’s founder and captain, John Charles Shaw, soon became President of the Sheffield Football Association which organised matches to the locally preferred rules for its growing number of member clubs. John Shaw was directly instrumental, with Charles Alcock of the Football Association in London,in the formation of nationally accepted rules of playing the game. In fact both gentlemen were the respective captains of the first all Sheffield match with London in 1871, in which the preferred rules were experimented. In 1867, Hallam won what is believed to be the first football cup competition which was the Youdan Cup, named after a local footballing enthusiast and theatre owner Thomas Youdan. By 1878,Hallam had the regular services of an English international player in 10
Billy Mosforth, who was a member of both Hallam football and cricket clubs. With the advent of more successful clubs and the growth of professionalism, Hallam could not hope to compete, being content to maintain its place in amateur football, with occasional success in local League and cup competitions. In 1925, over 2,000 spectators at Sandygate saw Hallam defeat the famous Bishop Auckland in an FA Amateur Cup tie. By rapid promotion, Hallam soon reached the most senior local league and had regular encounters with more famous clubs in the FA Amateur Cup competition. Local enthusiasm for the clubs progress was that one such tie against Dulwich Hamlet in 1953 had to be played at Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough ground and attracted a crowd of over 13,000. Hallam have won the Sheffield Senior Cup four times during the 1950s and 1960s, the last time in 1967/68. The 1982/83 season saw the demise of the old Yorkshire League with the introduction of the FA’s Pyramid system of non league football in which promotion was determined as much by ground grading as team performance. With only seven years of its ground lease remaining the Club could not commit to expensive ground improvements. Protracted negotiations with the landlord eventually led to a 99
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
HALLAM FC years extension being granted but a large premium was demanded within one year. Hallam’s profile was highlighted during the 1980s when the complete history of the club was researched and published by member John Steele. This was soon followed by much national publicity of the club’s plight. A big fund raising effort secured the new lease and continued for the provision of floodlights-first used in 1992. Next, the league required a 250 seat stand and a shelter for 100 spectators. Funds were boosted when the club received a large bequest from a late supporter’s will. The two new stands were ready for the 1999/2000 season and work continued by building new changing rooms. This left the original changing rooms redundant, so it was gutted internally and refitted as a licensed clubhouse. At some point in the past, the Youdan Cup, won outright by the club in 1871 had been lost. In 1997,the club bought it back when it turned up at a Scottish antique dealers shop. This allowed the club to obtain acceptance from the Guinness Book of World records that it has both the oldest football ground and the oldest football cup. Following 36 years without winning any silverware, Hallam won the NCEL cup in 2003/2004 when they beat Mickleover Sports 1-0 in the Final played at Buxton. So with it home at Sandygate secure until 2088, the future looks bright for Hallam Football club particularly after celebrating the clubs 150th anniversary in 2010.
HALLAM FC PEN PICTURES Andy Coulson Goalkeeper
A recent recruit who has previously played in the NCEL with Maltby.
Rob Adgie Defender
A versatile player who has been called up into the First team squad after impressing in the Reserves and Under 19s.
Khalid Alali Defender
A left sided defender who has joined the club this season having also been with Worksop Town.
Steve Wankiewicz Defender
A strong central defender who was previously with Worksop Town
Jonathan Wragg Defender
A recent signing from Premier Division Winterton Rangers who has also played in NCEL with Dinnington Town and Maltby.
Charlie Anderson Defender
A new signing from Sheffield FC,a defender who can play at either left back or centre half.
Craig Getliff Midfield
An attacking midfielder with an eye for goal who was previously with Maltby and ended last season as second top scorer with ten goals.
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HALLAM FC PEN PICS James Cook Midfield
A wide midfielder who has previously played in the NCEL at Dinnington Town and joined the club during last season.
Liam Morris Forward
A striker who recently rejoined the club from Worksop Parramore,top sorer last season with 16 goals and has also been with Staveley and Dinnington Town.
Paul Lavender Midfield
A new recruit during the close season from Maltby an experienced midfielder who .has also been with Stocksbridge Park.
Ben Cobley Midfield/Forward
A talented player who joined the club during last season. Previous clubs include Sutton Town,Gedling Town,Shirebrook Town and Rainworth
Danny Deakin Forward
A young striker who began his career with Sheffield United and has also been with Matlock Town.
Adam Carter Midfield
A hard working midfielder who has joined the First team squad this season and has previously been with Ossett Town.
Danny Booth Midfield
A promising young midfielder who was previously with Sheffield FC. 12
Aaron Moxam Forward
A striker who has recently returned for a third spell at Sandygate from Teversal. Previously played in the NCEL with Winterton Rangers,Shirebrook Town and Staveley.
Wes Hill Defender
A left sided defender who has recently returned to the club from Worksop Parramore,also played in NCEL with Parkgate and Handsworth.
Danny Wiltshire Forward
A striker who has recently rejoined the club after a spell with NCEL rivals Clipstone Welfare.
Conor Sellars Midfield
A talented midfielder who has recently joined the club having also been with Middlesbrough and Rochdale.
Steve Jeffries Midfield
A midfielder who is a new signing from NCEL rivals Dinnington Town.
Julian Watts Manager
A former Sheffield Wednesday, Leicester City and Luton Town player who took charge at Sandygate in January 2011 after a spell as assistant manager at fellow NCEL club Maltby.
All opposition information courtesy of Mark Radford at Hallam FC
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
NEWS ROUND-UP LOUTH PAY TRIBUTE TO KERRY COGGLE Louth Town paid a touching tribute to former chairman Kerry Coggle at Tuesday night’s League Cup fixture with Staveley MW. The Lincolnshire club have been in mourning for the committed Coggle after he sadly passed away suddenly at the start of March. An estate agent in Louth, Kerry was one of the people largely responsible for the formation of the Baris NCEL Division One club in May 2007 and,
even though he had since stepped down as chairman, he continued to work tirelessly behind the scenes raising money for the club through sponsorship. Ahead of the 2-0 victory over Staveley Miners Welfare, relatives, friends and supporters did a lap of honour at Louth’s Park Avenue in his memory whilst a photo/tribute album was handed over to his son-in-law, Martin Grant.
MAY THE 4TH BE WITH THE NCEL The Northern Counties East League have announced that the current season will now be extended until 4th May following afurther raft of postponed fixtures in the past couple of weeks. The season had been scheduled to end on the 28th April, but with late March
snowfall continuing to cause postponements the NCEL have opted to extend the season as far as possible, which is the May 4th deadline. Even with the extension, many NCEL clubs, including Askern and Worsborough Bridge will play three times a week until the season end..
SNOW DELAYS THE START OF THE EASTER GROUND HOP
The NCEL’s Easter groundhop was forced to start a day later than scheduled as the opening destination, Emley’s Welfare Ground remained buried under snow, causing Thursday night’s game with Bottesford to be postponed.
and Nostell MW. The Hop was also scheduled to take in yesterday’s matches at Pontefract, Hemsworth and Athersley before conclusing today with the big East Coast derby atr Bridlington, plus the matches at Pickering Town and Tadcaster Albion.
The Hop instead began yesterday with the 11am Good Friday West Yorkshire derby between Glasshoughton Welfare
Despite the postponement the hoppers should still get their fair share of NCEL action in over the weekend.
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MAIN IN ACTION SAT 16TH MARCH // NCEL DIVISION ONE ROSSINGTON MAIN 5-2 YORKSHIRE AMATEUR Only our 2nd win of the calendar year and our one and only “double” of the season against a much-changed Leeds outfit who are also in the throes of relegation worries. Ben Hunter re-signed in midweek with work commitments hindering his prospects of continuing in Evostik football because of the travel implications, and he was thrust into the side to try and improve our strike power. It didn’t take him long as he swivelled to hit a shot across the visiting keeper in the opening 10 minutes. We were dominating the play early on and again failed to score from good chances and should have been 3 or 4 goals to the good before Brandon Fallon raced clear to shoot under the keeper on the halfhour mark to double our advantage. The visitors came more into the game and fired wide when wellplaced on a couple of occasions and we had a brief warning not to be too complacent. Nathan Fraser put us 3 up on the stroke of half-time with a well struck shot from the edge of the box. Whether the break caused us to lose our focus but we started the 2nd half rather sloppily. The Ammers pulled a goal back almost immediately when a weak shot crept in at the post, and 16
it could have been worse moments later when a 2nd “goal” was ruled out for a foul. This lapse in concentration was rectified and we began to play once again. Fallon’s pace down the right had caused the visitors problems all afternoon and Hunter’s deft footwork was creating chances. Following a strong appeal for a penalty when Hunter was brought down, moments later the referee did give us a spotkick which Mirfin coolly dispatched to further increase our lead. The game was far more even and open at this point but our defence was coping better and Wildey was rarely tested. Hunter got his 2nd and our fifth when he converted a move down the right before the visitors scored perhaps the goal of the game when a shot from distance flew into the top corner of the net. The visiting keeper still did well to thwart both Billam and Hunter late on. A deserved win and a vital one, made all the more rewarding when Wales thrashed England a couple of hours later to retain the 6 Nations title!!! Match Report by Ian Wilson - though the celebratory note about the 6 Nations result, probably gave that away.
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
MAIN IN ACTION TUE 19TH MARCH // SHEFFIELD SENIOR CUP QUARTER-FINAL ROSSINGTON MAIN 0-2 STAVELEY MW The only change to Saturday’s lineup was the introduction of Thornton up front for the ineligible Hunter and with all subs unavailable the bench was occupied by Clark, Spears and young Chipamunga. With heavy rain following Saturday’s game the pitch was only prepared hours before kick-off, the groundsman indebted to a dry day on Tuesday to carry out repairs to the surface which was sure to cut up again once play commenced. In all honesty we were very keen to get the game on, the match already having suffered 2 cancellations due to fog and snow respectively. With our visitors in need of a win following their recent off-field problems, which has resulted in more or less a “new” side being assembled in a month, it was obvious that they would fancy their chances against “inferior” opponents and they started very confidently. Fortunately for us our defence was up to the challenge and they performed admirably throughout. Staveley went close on a few occasions in the opening halfhour but we probably had the better scoring opportunities in the final 15 minutes of the half when Fraser and Billam had chances to put us in front. If Staveley bossed the first 45 minutes then I thought we were the
better side in the 2nd period as we pressed hard in all areas and took the game to them. With Fallon’s pace on the right again causing problems and Billam foraging further upfield on the left we got to the bye-line on numerous occasions without anyone being in the right place to convert the pull-back when it came. With several scrambles in the visitors’ box it looked like the game was heading for extra-time until Damms got free with 4 minutes remaining to flick the ball over Wildey. It was a complete injustice to the lads when they conceded a 2nd in added time as we were pressing hard for a late equaliser. This was a significant performance by the whole team as we probably matched our opponents in all areas apart from that vital product of converting chances. If we can replicate some of this form into the final 8 League matches of the season then we should be safe. Main Line-up: 1 Wildey, 2 Taylor, 3 Holvey, 4 Mirfin, 5 Cook, 6 Tunney, 7 Fallon, 8 Doyle, 9 Fraser, 10 Thornton, 11 Billam Substitutes (non used): 12 Spears, 14 Clark, 15 Chipamunga Match Report by Ian Wilson
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MAIN IN ACTION TUE 26TH MARCH // NCEL DIVISION ONE ROSSINGTON MAIN 1-3 ECCLESHILL UNITED Thankfully the snow cleared just in time for this game to be eventually played, and the pitch, although likely to cut up once again, was actually firmer than it had been for several weeks. With the encouraging display against Staveley still fresh in our memory, there were high hopes that despite our visitors’ recent improved form, we were capable of gaining a result to improve our relegation struggle. Manager Lodge had almost all his squad available for selection, but our visitors had over 30 American students at their disposal and fielded almost an entire U.S.A. XI, led by a Scottish ex-pro who had once managed Ferencvaros in Hungary. The eastern European weather we are experiencing, and the International football on the television, was probably to blame for our lowest attendance of the season. It was obvious our visitors receive almost daily training and coaching at Bradford City as they moved the ball competently from the back and in the opening exchanges they had the bulk of the possession without really hurting us. Gradually we began to get a hold in midfield and exchanges were
fairly even. Sadly a rare error by Tunney at the back let in their most prolific striker Marcus Edwards (although how he fits in to the student culture escapes me) to score from 6 yards. Again we attacked quite strongly on both flanks with no-one on hand to apply that vital touch when the ball came in. We were very much in the game at the interval and despite their impressive football it also allowed us to play as they were reluctant to press us once they lost the ball. With more urgency and spirit we took the game to them in the 2nd half and were rewarded when a challenge on Thornton led to a penalty. Sadly the impressive visiting keeper saved Mirfin’s spot kick and then minutes later we went further behind when slack defending allowed Edwards to notch his second. Again we came back at them and reduced the deficit when Doyle calmly slotted the rebound from another parry by the keeper, and with still 10 minutes or so remaining we were back in it. Once again however in our eagerness for an equaliser we were left short at the back and Eccleshill broke out to clinch their victory in added time.
Match Report by Ian Wilson
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MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
IN RESERVE SAT 9TH MARCH // SHEFFIELD & HALLAMSHIRE FA CHALLENGE CUP SEMI-FINAL ROSSINGTON MAIN 1-3 KIRKBURTON Our 2nd team bowed out of the County Cup last weekend, beaten by a strong and experienced Kirkburton outfit who adapted better to the conditions and had more of the game on the day. Nevertheless it was a brave performance by our young side and an excellent experience for them to have reached this stage of the Competition. I doubt whether any of our lads had seen our pitch so heavy and wet, and the conditions certainly didn’t suit our normal style of play with the pace of our young strikers Chipamunga and Bathgate hampered somewhat. Added to this was the fact that our opponents were direct, strong and gave us little time on the ball when we ourselves were unable to move the ball about with our usual pace. Kirkburton created several chances before they took the lead after 15 minutes when a powerful shot beat young keeper Wildey. We had to defend for most of the half and only tested the visitors’ defence in rare attacks although McGee was thwarted by a well-timed tackle just as he was about to pull the trigger. Sadly I missed their 2nd goal on the stroke of half-time as I was retrieving a ball from the allotment end, but by all accounts it was another excellent shot from distance that found the top corner of Wildey’s net after he had made an excellent save moments
earlier to deny and delay their eventual 1st half lead. Managers Colley and Bell changed formation for the 2nd half and adopted a 4-3-3 system in the hope of gaining a hold in the middle of the park (which by now was churning up into a bit of a quagmire) and there was no doubt that it payed off as the game became much more of a contest. The defence came to terms with the pace of the Kirkburton attack, midfield was a more even affair and we used the pace of our front men out wide where conditions were better for running with the ball. The introduction of substitutes Coburn, McMillan and Batchelor also gave us more experience and strength on a tiring pitch, although Coburn had to revert to goalkeeper following an injury to Wildey shortly after Kirkburton had sealed their place in the final with a well-taken 3rd goal. To our credit, and spurred on by a sizeable crowd, we did pull back a late goal when young Marcel was on hand to convert a right wing move to place his shot under the advancing keeper. TEAM; 1 Wildey (15 Batchelor); 2 Harte, 3 Griffiths, 4 Spencer, 5 Rowley, 6 Jones, 7 McGee (14 McMillan), 8 Brailey, 9 Chipamunga, 10 Maughan, 11 Bathgate (12 Coburn) 2nd Team write-up courtesy of Ian Wilson
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MAIN APPEARANCES 2012-13 DATE OPPONENT 04 Aug Selby Town 07 Aug Teversal 11 Aug Atherton L.R. 14 AUG KNARESBOROUGH TN 18 Aug Hemsworth M.W. 25 AUG CLIPSTONE WELFARE 27 Aug Louth Town 01 Sep Congleton Town 05 Sep Shirebrook Town 08 SEP TEVERSAL 12 Sep Albion Sports 22 SEP GRIMSBY BOROUGH 25 SEP DINNINGTON TOWN 29 Sep Cleethorpes Town 06 OCT AFC EMLEY 09 OCT KIVETON PARK 13 Oct Yormshire Am. 16 Oct Pontefract Coll. 20 OCT ASKERN VILLA 27 Oct Hallam 03 NOV ATHERSLEY REC. 06 Nov Parkgate 10 Nov Worsborough B.A. 13 NOV BOTTESFORD TOWN 17 NOV SELBY TOWN 24 Nov Appleby Frod’ham 01 DEC ALBION SPORTS 08 Dec Dinnington Town 15 DEC PONTEFRACT COLL. 26 Dec Askern Villa 12 Jan Knaresborough T. 02 FEB LOUTH TOWN 09 Feb Teversal 12 FEB HEMSWORTH M.W. 16 FEB SHIREBROOK TOWN 23 Feb Grimsby Borough 02 MAR CLEETHORPES TOWN 09 Mar AFC Emley 16 MAR YORKSHIRE AM 19 Mar STAVELEY MW 26 MAR ECCLESHILL UTD 30 MAR HALLAM 06 Apr Athersley Rec. 10 Apr Eccleshill United 13 APR WORSBOROUGH B.A. 20 Apr Bottesford Town 27 APR APPLEBY FROD’HAM 04 May Clipstone Welfare
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COMP RES. ATT. NCEL 0-1 94 LC 1 1-2 68 FAC EP 2-4 38 NCEL 0-3 95 NCEL 4-3 97 NCEL 1-4 47 NCEL 0-1 120 FAV 1Q 0-3 118 NCEL 1-0 71 NCEL 0-5 51 NCEL 1-1 30 NCEL 3-1 59 NCEL 1-2 61 NCEL 2-3 103 NCEL 0-3 64 SHC1R 4-1 51 NCEL 3-2 30 NCEL 0-4 43 NCEL 1-1 53 NCEL 1-2 79 NCEL 0-2 81 SHC2R 2-1* 65 NCEL 1-3 49 NCEL 0-3 56 NCEL 2-0 121 NCEL 2-1 20 NCEL 1-2 65 NCEL 2-2 43 NCEL 3-3 48 NCEL 3-1 50 NCEL 1-2 178 NCEL 0-1 38 NCEL 0-5 53 NCEL 1-4 50 NCEL 0-4 105 NCEL 4-3 42 NCEL 1-2 74 NCEL 1-7 71 NCEL 5-2 64 SHCQF 0-2 50 NCEL 1-3 35 NCEL NCEL NCEL NCEL NCEL NCEL NCEL
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Hanson Tunney Tunney Hanson Hanson Hanson Harte Harte Harte Harte Spears Spears Spears Spears Spears Taylor Spears Spears Spears Spears Taylor Taylor Hanson Spears Taylor Taylor Taylor Taylor Taylor Taylor Hanson Taylor Taylor Taylor Taylor Taylor Taylor Taylor Taylor Taylor Taylor
Billam Billam Billam Pendleton Doyle Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Billam Holvey Holvey Holvey
Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Tunney Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin 2 Mirfin Mirfin Tunney Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Spencer Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Tunney Tunney Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Spencer Tunney Tunney Tunney Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin Mirfin
Tunney Pendleton Rodgers Rodgers Rodgers Rodgers Rowley Rodgers Jones Rodgers Pendleton Pendleton Pendleton Pendleton Pendleton Pendleton Hanson Hanson Tunney Pendleton Tunney Tunney Pendleton Pendleton Hanson Hanson Tunney Rowley Rowley Rowley Cook Cook Hanson Cook Cook Cook Cook Cook Cook Cook Cook
6 Holvey Hanson Holvey Holvey Holvey Holvey Pendleton Pendleton Pendleton Holvey Holvey Holvey Holvey Tunney Holvey Holvey Pendleton Tunney Hanson Hanson Hanson Hanson Holvey Hanson Tunney Tunney Holvey Holvey Holvey Holvey Holvey Holvey Tunney Holvey Holvey Holvey Holvey Holvey Tunney Tunney Tunney
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
FOR VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS, PHOTOS AND REPORTS VISIT THE RMFC WEBSITE
www.pitchero.com/clubs/rossingtonmain
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Fraser McLaughlin Sidebottom Sidebottom Sidebottom Sidebottom Sidebottom Maughan Fallon Tunney Sidebottom Sidebottom Sidebotton Sidebottom 2 Taylor Clark Chipamunga Chipamunga Taylor Clark Spears Spears Spears Fallon Spencer Spears Spears Clark Clark Spencer Taylor Spencer Spencer Fallon Clark Fallon Fallon Fraser Fallon Fallon Fallon
Pendleton Taylor Taylor Taylor Pendleton Pendleton Taylor Taylor Mirfin Taylor Tunney Tunney Tunney Green Green Tunney Taylor Taylor Pendleton Taylor Pendleton Pendleton Spencer Tunney Pendleton Spencer Doyle Doyle Doyle Doyle Tunney Tunney Fraser Fraser Spencer Spencer Spencer Tunney Doyle Doyle Doyle
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Fallon Taylor McLaughlin Sidebottom10 Doyle7 Clark Kilmartin7 Fallon Fraser Doyle Clark Rowley Chipamunga9 Fallon McLaughlin Pendleton Hanson Maughan8 Clark14 Thornton9 Fallon Fraser Doyle Clark7 Thornton9 Maughan11 Wisdom McLaughlin Maughan Clark Fallon11 Thornton4 Wisdom10 McLaughlin Thornton Clark Fallon7 Tunney4 Wisdom Fraser11 Wisdom Fallon McLaughlin Jones5 Chipamunga11 Wildey Wisdom Fallon Clark Tunney9 McGee2 Jones5 Wisdom Taylor Clark Hanson Sidebottom Spears4 Wisdom McLaughlin Clark Spears7 Hanson Thornton11 Maughan9 Wisdom Fallon Maughan Green11 Harte Wisdom Green Chipamunga Taylor11 Clark9 Fallon Chipamunga Green Thornton10 Wisdom7 Clark9 Wisdom Thornton Clark Taylor7 Chipamunga9 Wisdom Thornton Clark Chipamunga11 Jones9 Wildey Thornton Fraser Green Wisdom Spears6 Chipamunga7 Wildey1 Thornton Fraser Green Wisdom7 Wildey Thornton Fraser Clark Wisdom9 Doyle11 Brailey Wildey1 Thornton Fraser Clark Wisdom Chipamunga11 Wisdom Fraser Doyle Chipamunga7 Thornton Fraser Clark Chipamunga7 Wisdom9 Thornton Wisdom Chipamunga Doyle9 Fallon5 Mirfin Fraser Fallon Doyle Chipamunga6 Coburn11 Appleby Fraser Wisdom Clark Taylor2 Chipamunga11 Spencer Wildey Fraser Fallon Doyle Spears4 Wisdom10 Clark11 Wisodm Fraser Doyle Clark Holvey Rowley Fraser Fallon Clark Thornton11 Maugha10 Rowley Fraser Fallon Thornton Wisdom11 Cook5 Fraser Fallon 2 Thornton Wisdom11 Spears7 Cook5 Fraser Fallon Thornton Wisdom7 Wildey1 Wisdom Spencer Doyle Spears Fallon Thornton Doyle Wisdom9 Maughan4 Fraser7 Hanson Fallon Thornton Doyle Wisdom10 Wisdom Thornton Doyle Maughan9 Clark10 Fallon Fraser Doyle Brailey4 Chipamunga7 Maughan10 Wildey Fraser Thornton Doyle 3 Brailey5 Wisdom7 Chipamunga10 Fraser Thornton Doyle Wisdom8 Chipamunga7 Clark10 Wisdom Thornton Doyle Clark9 Spears Hunter 2 Fraser Billam Wisdom7 Maughan10 Spencer Fraser Thornton Billam Spears Clark Chipamunga Hunter Thornton Billam Wisdom7 Clark10 Spears11
Competition Index NCEL (League) FAC (FA Cup) LC (League Cup) FAV (FA Vase) SHC (Sheffield Hallamshire Cup)
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Wildey
(1 own goal) (1 own goal)
Lodge
Guide to Table Wisdom10 Sub on for number shown Wisdom 2 Denotes goalscorer 2-1* Includes own goal for Main Home fixtures in Capitals
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
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FOOTBALL’S FAULTS CONTINUING MAIN ISSUE’S LOOK AT FOOTBALL’S UGLY SIDE NO. 12. BEING BOOKED FOR TAKING YOUR SHIRT OFF After a few weeks looking at some serious ills, you’ll be glad to read that this feature today gets back to what it does best; really detailed granular gripes about ultimately inconsequential aspects of the game. The thing about this particular ‘football fault’ is that I know that will annoy al lot of other football fans, but I suspect it won’t annoy many of them in the same way it annoys me. The thing is football players have been booked for taking their shirt off for years, whether swinging it round their head, chucking it in the crowd or hanging it on the corner flag there is one outcome; stern looking referee standing patiently, notebook already filled in, waiting to brandish a yellowcard. “It’s a stupid rule,” people say. And it arguably is, but here’s the thing, no matter how stupid it is a rule, and has been for a long time. Here it is in fact, from Law 12 in the Laws of the game, the insitances in which a player must be cautioned when celebrating; A player must be cautioned if: • in the opinion of the referee, he makes gestures which are provocative, derisory or inflammatory • he climbs on to a perimeter fence to celebrate a goal being scored • he removes his shirt or covers his head with his shirt 24
• he covers his head or face with a mask or other similar item So as stupid as it may be it is clearly spelled out. And this is why I consider bookings for players taking their shirt off in celebration to be one of football’s faults. Because it should never happen. Not because it’s a ‘stupid rule’, but because it’s a rule that players know and should never really fall foul of. Yes, scoring a goal can be a reason for great excitement, for relief, for extrovert displays of joy even, but when was the last time that you felt so happy that you whipped off your clothing? You’ve finally finished that crucial bit of filing, you’ve done it, at last, and before 5pm too, there’s only one natural reaction, hare across the office, hurling your tie at Finance as you go. No. There’s a Buy One Get One Free deal on those biscuits you like, the chocolate ones, get in there, there’s only one thing you can do. Yep, ditch the trolley and slide towards the cheese counter on your knees with your cardigan over your head. Perhaps not. This is why it’s one of football’s fault, because it’s a caution players know they will receive for a reaction they would never normally have.
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
LEAGUE TABLES NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE DIVISION ONE 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22.
Athersley Recreation Albion Sports Shirebrook Town Knaresborough Town Cleethorpes Town AFC Emley Pontefract Collieries Teversal Worsborough Bridge Ath. Louth Town Hemsworth M.W. Clipstone Welfare Eccleshill United Hallam Grimsby Borough Bottesford Town Dinnington Town ROSSINGTON MAIN Selby Town Appleby Frodingham Yorkshire Amateur Askern Villa
P 35 33 35 35 33 33 34 35 31 32 34 33 32 32 34 31 32 35 33 32 35 31
W 22 20 21 19 19 20 19 16 16 15 14 13 12 11 11 9 9 9 8 7 6 7
D 7 7 3 8 7 3 4 8 7 8 5 7 7 8 4 9 4 4 3 4 5 2
*1 point deducted
L 6 6 11 8 7 10 11 11 8 9 15 13 13 13 19 13 19 22 22 21 24 22
F A 81 45 89 38 74 54 70 45 87 52 90 43 61 41 83 56 76 48 67 56 63 65 59 54 63 57 57 56 46 65 50 60 52 82 46 86 49 80 42 99 46 104 42 107
DONCASTER & DISTRICT PREMIER LEAGUE 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Shafton Villa Bramley Sunnyside Denaby United Sutton Rovers Hemsworth Town South Elmsall United Serv. Bawtry Town Kinsley Boys ROSSINGTON MAIN South Kirkby Colliery
P 13 15 13 12 14 12 13 11 10 13
W 10 10 9 8 5 4 4 3 4 0
D 2 0 1 2 2 2 0 2 1 0
L 1 5 3 2 7 6 9 6 5 13
F 51 44 68 48 26 20 31 18 34 8
A 15 24 35 18 36 17 49 24 18 106
GD Pts +36 73 +51 67 +20 66 +25 65 +35 64 +47 63 +20 61 +27 56 +28 55 +11 53 -2 47 +5 46 +6 43 +1 41 -19 37 -10 35* -30 31 -40 31 -31 27 -57 25 -58 23 -65 23
GD Pts +36 32 +7 30 +44 28 +30 26 -11 17 = 14 -18 12 -6 11 +16 10* -98 0
Scawthorpe & Bentley Rhinos, Mexborough Town and Carcroft Villahe have all withdrawn from the League - their records has been expunged *3 points deducted
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
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RESULTS SERVICE SATURDAY 16TH MARCH NORTERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION Bridlington Town Brighouse Town Glasshoughton Welfare Parkgate Pickering Town Retford United Tadcaster Albion
4 8 2 2 3 2 1
-
1 1 1 4 1 0 1
Hall Road Rangers Lincoln Moorlands Railway Long Eaton United Scarborough Athletic Barton Town Old Boys Staveley Miners Welfare Thackley
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE DIVISION ONE AFC Emley Dinnington Town Eccleshill United Knaresborough Town ROSSINGTON MAIN
4 3 2 1 5
-
0 4 5 3 2
Askern Villa Hemsworth Miners Welfare Selby Town Pontefract Collieries Yorkshire Amateur
SHEFFIELD & HALLAMSHIRE JUNIOR CHALLENGE CUP SEMI FINAL Holmfirth Town
4-0
Swinton Athletic
DONCASTER & DISTRICT SENIOR LEAGUE DIV. 1 KO CUP SEMI FINAL Denaby Main
3-1
Rovers Foundation
DONCASTER & DISTRICT SENIOR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION Bramley Sunnyside Hemsworth Town
3-2 1-1
South Elmsall United Services Kinsley Boys
TUESDAY 19TH MARCH EAST RIDING SENIOR CUP SEMI-FINAL
North Ferriby United
3-1
Bridlington Town
SHEFFIELD & HALLAMSHIRE SENIOR CUP QUARTER FINALS AFC Emley ROSSINGTON MAIN
1-2 0-2
Stocksbridge Park Steels Staveley Miners Welfare
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE CUP THIRD ROUND Armthorpe Welfare Nostell Miners Welfare
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4-6 3-2
Parkgate Dinnington Town
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
RESULTS SERVICE TUESDAY 19TH MARCH
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION Worksop Parramore
2-2
Winterton Rangers
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE DIVISION ONE Clipstone Welfare
2-4
Selby Town
WEDNESDAY 20TH MARCH
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE DIVISION ONE Albion Sports
5-2
Hemsworth Miners Welfare
SATURDAY 23RD MARCH
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION Scarborough Athletic
2-0
Tadcaster Albion
TUESDAY 26TH MARCH
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION
Lincoln Moorlands Railway Tadcaster Albion
0-3 5-2
Nostell Miners Welfare Long Eaton United
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROSSINGTON MAIN
1-3
Eccleshill United
WEDNESDAY 27TH MARCH
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE CUP QUARTER FINAL Louth Town
2-0
Staveley Miners Welfare
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION Barton Town Old Boys
P-P
Retford United
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE DIVISION ONE Cleethorpes Town
2-1
Selby Town
WEDNESDAY 27TH MARCH
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE DIVISION ONE AFC Emley
P-P
Bottesford Town
Results sourced from the official website of the BARIS Northern Counties East League and the website Football Mitoo. MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
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AWAY DAY TRAVEL BACK THE BLUES ON THE ROAD Saturday 6th April
Athersley Recreation
Sheerien Park
Ollerton Road, Athersley North, Barnsley, S71 3DP
NCEL Division One Kick-off: 3:00pm Admission: £4 / £2 Programme: £1.50 Cover for 420 (150 seats)
Directions
From M1 J38. Go back under M1. Take 1st left onto Haigh Lane, at the top of the hill, turn right. At next T-junction, turn left onto Shaw Lane and go to bottom of hill. At T-junction of A61, turn right to Barnsley, go through 1st set of lights and take first left onto Newstead Road. At 2nd roundabout turn right onto Ollerton Rd. Entrance is between houses 123-125.
Wednesday 10th April
Eccleshill United
The Rapid Solicitors Stadium Kingsway, Wrose, Bradford, BD2 1PN
NCEL Division One Kick-off: 7:45pm Admission: Undisclosed Programme: £1.00 Cover for 415 (225 seats) 30
Directions
M62 J26 onto M606, right onto Bradford Ring Road A6177, left on to A650 for Bradford at 2nd roundabout. A650 Bradford Inner Ring Road onto Canal Rd, branch right at Staples, fork left after 30mph sign to junction with Wrose Road, across junction - continuation of Kings Rd, first left onto Kingsway. Ground is 200 yards on right.
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
MEET THE MAIN MEN Steve Lodge (Manager) Steve took over the reigns for the end of the 2010/11 season, leading the club to the Wilkinson Sword Trophy. Last season, Steve’s first full season in charge, was also successful as the first team broke a number of club records to achieve their best NCEL finish. A firm believer in club spirit, which is why most players and officials at the club are local. Ian Wilson (Assistant Manager) A former Wales youth and amateur international Ian also does an excellent job as club groundsman amongst other roles. Previously in charge of Rossington FC, he took that club from local Sunday football to the top flight of the Central Midlands League Lee Appleby Now in his 7th season at the Main, making him one of the top appearance makers in recent years Lee was instrumental in our record breaking season last year with some outstanding performances and 12 clean sheets. Dedicated, honest and hardworking as well as agile, quick and boasting superb handling Lee is one of the best keepers the NCEL has to offer. Jordan Wildey Young Jordan will provide competition for the number one shirt this year after some impressive displays in tough games for both 1st and 2nd teams last season where he performed maturely and competently. He is a fantastic shot stopper, agile and very confident. Bradley Billam Flying full back Brad continues to grow at left back; combining athleticism, confidence and consistency with a willingness to work forwards and backwards to become a valuable member of the Main squad. His attacking prowess was clear to see last year as he was credited with 8 assists. Dan Elcoat Primarily a central defender, Dan can play anywhere across the back four and also in
central midfield. He is strong in the air and tenacious in the tackle, boasting good communication skills and a strong desire to play. Chris Hanson Chris joined the Main late last season from Yorkshire Main, playing a versatile role in the Rossington defence. Chris is calm in possession and is a good reader of the game. Tom Harte Very good on the ball and well organised Tom came back to football last year after some time away from the game. He played with the Reserves last season but has shown during pre-season that he is capable of becoming a 1st team player. David Holvey 2011/12 Manager’s Player of the Year; Club Captain Dave lead by example last year and his never say die attitude and loyalty to the club make him an invaluable asset. A great leader and robust defender Dave is also capable of pin-point long range passes that turn defence quickly into attack. Dean Jones Dean can play in any position across the back four, as he has done for the Reserves. Another player to return to the game after some time away, Dean is a good footballer and very good in the air. Will Rowley 2011/12 Reserves Players’ Player of the Year. Long-time Main man Will is an old school central defender who provided some excellent displays last season. Solid in the air, well-timed in the tackle and a threat at set pieces he is reliable and extremely valuable for both sides. Richard Spears Very hard working, committed and energetic, Richard played an important role in the club’s strong 2011/12 campaign. Richard will no doubt look to continue working hard to cement his place in the team.
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
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ZEPH THOMAS It’s not often that a former Rossington Main player makes it onto the front page of the BBC Football website, but that happened this week as the Beeb’s Steve Crossman provided a feature on the fortune’s of Zeph Thomas who left Oxford Street just over a year ago and has since gone on to play international football for St Kitts and Nevis. For those who missed it online, here is Mr Crossman’s article. In the career of any player, a first international call-up is surely a symbolic moment. You’ve played professionally and have impressed enough to be recognised by your country. In short, you’ve made it. Tell that to Zeph Thomas. The former Cowdenbeath winger, 23, has gone from playing for the St Kitts and Nevis national team to working in a bookmakers’ call centre in the space of five months. Thomas qualifies for the team nicknamed the Sugar Boyz through his grandfather, but it was as much his social media skills as his lineage that led him to playing for the tiny sundrenched islands in October as they looked to break into Fifa’s top 100 for the first time. “I tried to get in contact with Jamaica because my grandmother is from there, but that didn’t go to plan,” he told the BBC’s World Football programme. “I went on to the Facebook page of St Kitts and Nevis and sent them a message to see if I could play for them. I got a message back with an email address and then spoke to the coach and sent my video over. “The coach I was speaking to got sacked so I didn’t think I’d get called up, but then the captain Atiba Harris sent me a Facebook message and asked if I’d like 34
to go out there and play; so I got myself over there.” Thomas had just begun to work his way into the first-team picture at Cowdenbeath before he left to play in the qualifying round for the Caribbean Cup. But upon his return to Scotland he found himself out of favour. He picked up a groin injury and was released by the team, nicknamed Blue Brazil, in January. Blue is probably the operative word to sum up Thomas’s mood since. He has been working for bookmakers William Hill in a Rotherham call centre while trying to find a way to continue his football career. “Mentally it’s been quite hard because I’ve been injured,” he admitted. “I guess it just makes me stronger though. Next time I go to a club, if I get a chance, I’ll be able to give 100% knowing that I don’t want to work in a call centre again.” Thomas’s CV might look more appealing had his adventure with St. Kitts and Nevis proved to be more successful. He was one of several foreign based players who joined up with the team as they looked to progress to group phase of a competition which can lead to a place in the more prestigious Concacaf Gold Cup.
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
The formula of bringing in players from abroad is tried and tested in the Caribbean. One need only look at the World Cup finals appearances of the likes of Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago to emphasise how well it can work. It was defeat to the latter however, coupled with a heavy loss to French Guiana in an atrocious tropical storm, which prevented Thomas and his adopted nation from getting past even the preliminary round. “There was pressure on the players, particularly the foreigners who’d come over,” Thomas said. “If we’d had a bit longer to gel and get the shape better with the squad, we could have done well.” Their failure was all the more painful because St. Kitts and Nevis hosted the entirety of their qualifying competition in the capital of Basseterre. It’s safe to say the locals were not appeased. “There were a few fans who were a bit upset and that’s fair enough because they pay their money. When we lost to Trinidad and Tobago some supporters tried to get into the dressing room,” Thomas added. “Obviously the security wouldn’t let them in, but they were shouting through the windows. They’re very passionate and they just want the best for their country. It’s understandable. “They don’t really like the foreign players because they think that the locals can do just as good a job.” Thomas is now waiting on the results
of an MRI scan which may determine whether he can continue his career as a professional footballer. He admits he has considered quitting the game: “I have thought about it, especially in this period where I’ve been injured. “I got offered a coaching job in Oman and it was good money. I thought about it but I decided I’d give it one more year. In some countries like the United States, some kids don’t get signed until they’re 24.” It is in North America that Thomas may yet get his last chance to play for a living. He has agreed a deal to join Canadian side Thunder Bay Chill and his new national team captain, Atiba Harris, has promised to set him up with an agent when he gets there. If his injury gets in the way then Thomas may decide enough is enough, but with a contacts book that includes friends like Manchester United and England’s Tom Cleverley, don’t expect to see him answering phones for too much longer.
Quiz Answers (from page 42): 1. Jimmy Glass with a last minute goal against Plymouth Argyle, 2. Middlesbrough, 3. Lincoln City, 4. Scarborough, 5. 2005, 6. Northampton Town (Cobblers indeed), 7. Doncaster Rovers; beating Dagenham & Redbridge 3-2, 8. Worksop Parramore (aka Rossington Old Boys), 9. Selby Town, 10. Swansea City, 11. Denis Law
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
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MEET THE MAIN MEN Shaun Pendleton Shaun played the majority of last season at centre back before moving into central midfield where he put in some great displays. Versatile and very professional in his approach, Shaun is a hard worker. His defensive attributes are as impressive as his offensive ones. A very strong passer of the ball, he can play a vital role in playmaking from deeper positions. John Tunney John joins the club from Yorkshire Main after several very successful seasons there. A versatile player who is equally capable of playing anywhere in defence or midfield. Marcel Chipamunga Young local lad Marcel is making his first steps into senior football this season, hoping to gain experience and develop as a player. Marcel has already shown the management team that he has bags of potential and willingness to learn. Ben Clark Young and enthusiastic with a good attitude to learning the game. wide man Ben is also making his first step into senior football. He is full of pace and positive running which will no doubt cause a problem for defenders. Niall Doyle As the Reserve team captain Niall has become an important part of the club, helping the Reserves to a close title race last season. Niall likes to keep the ball moving and push forward into goal scoring positions whenever possible. Nathan Fraser Another very versatile player who is naturally gifted, Nathan loves to attack and run at players and his creativity could prove important . Nathan’s ability to play out wide, down the middle, up front and even at the back makes him a key squad member. Jonathan Mirfin Main’s 2011/12 Supporters’ Player of the Year. Jonathan continues to impress at the Main with consistent displays in the centre of 36
midfield. Jonathan rarely gives the ball away, starting attacks and creating chances for his team mates. The controlled midfielder is also useful from free-kicks. Danny Taylor Danny joins the club from Askern this season and can play across the midfield and at full back, is very confident in possession and looks after the ball well. Brandon Fallon Brandon burst into the Main squad in March. Tall, powerful and very quick and for such a young lad he fits in very well at this level. After only seven appearances last season, we are waiting to see even more of Brandon this year. Tom McLaughlin Pace, dribbling and finishing are just three attributes that make Tom a very dangerous opponent for defenders. He can play up front or on either wing. Tom joins after several seasons with Askern Villa and will be looking to cement a starting role at the Main this term. Scott Maughan The club’s overall top scorer last season.as he make his return to football after some time away from the game. It proved very successful as he fired the Reserves into a title chasing spot. Scott is a natural finisher who comes alive around the penalty area. Dean Thornton A former regular scorer for the Reserves, Dean has returned to force his way into the 1st team. Dean is excellent with his back to goal and good in the air, but equally as effective running past the back four. A natural finisher and confident in front of goal. Adam Wisdom Adam is blessed with pace and power and his physical attributes and appetite to work make him a handful for opponents. A threat running beyond defenders, but really comes alive from close range, where he scored all of his goals last season.
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
WEEKEND FIXTURES GOOD FRIDAY 29TH MARCH NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION Glasshoughton Welfare 11:00am Nostell Miners Welfare
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE DIVISION ONE Athersley Recreation 7:45pm Askern Villa Hemsworth Miners Welfare 4:30pm Knaresborough Town Pontefract Collieries 1:45pm Selby Town
EASTER SATURDAY 30TH MARCH NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION Armthorpe Welfare Arnold Town Bridlington Town Brighouse Town Heanor Town Parkgate Pickering Town Retford United Tadcaster Albion Winterton Rangers
3:00pm 3:00pm 11:30am 3:00pm 3:00pm 3:00pm 3:00pm 3:00pm 7:30pm 3:00pm
Staveley Miners Welfare Lincoln Moorlands Railway Scarborough Athletic Hall Road Rangers Long Eaton United Liversedge Worksop Parramore Maltby Main Barton Town Old Boys Thackley
NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST LEAGUE DIVISION ONE Appley Frodingham Dinnington Town Eccleshill United Grimsby Borough ROSSINGTON MAIN Worsborough Bridge Athletic
3:00pm 3:00pm 3:00pm 3:00pm 3:00pm 3:00pm
Cleethorpes Town Shirebrook Town Louth Town Albion Sports Hallam Yorkshire Amateur
DAWSON & BURGESS DONCASTER PREMIER DIVISION KO CUP Sutton Rovers 2:30pm Shafton Villa
DONCASTER & DISTRICT SENIOR LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION P-P Denaby United South Elmsall United Services ROSSINGTON MAIN 2:30pm Bawtry Town
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
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HALF-TIME TEASERS TACKLE THIS XI ON PROMOTION AND RELEGATION
1. Which goalkeeper infamously spared Carlisle United relegation from the Football League in 1999? 2. Which team was relegated from the top flight in 1997, despite reaching both the FA and League Cup Finals? 3. Who were the first team to suffer automatic relegation from the Football League in 1987? 4. And who were the first team to gain automatic promotion to the League? 5. Which team enjoyed their only top flight season in 1965-66, only to suffer three successive relegations afterwards?
Answers can be found at the foot of page 35.
6. In which year were Wigan Athletic promoted to the Premier League? 7. In 2002-03 a promotion play-off was introduced to the Football Conference. Who were the first winners? 8. Which was the only team promoted to the NCEL Premier last season? 9. And who was relegated from the NCEL Premier to Division 1? 10. Which team achieved three promotions in four seasons on their way to playing in the top flight in 1981-82? 11. A back-heeled goal from which player effectively relegated Manchester United to the second tier in 1974?
SPECTATOR NOTICE The committee, officials and all volunteers involved at Rossington Main have worked hard in recent years to establish a positive reputation for the club in both the local community and the wider footballing fraternity. We are rightly proud that this club is appreciated as one which upholds the true values of grassroots community football, and that Oxford Street is seen as a welcoming and friendly ground to visit. We ask that you help us to maintain this reputation during your time with us at the ground, ensuring that all present have a positive experience, regardless of the match result, and leave more than happy to visit us at Oxford Street again. Football is, after all, a game to be enjoyed by players, spectators and officials alike. Rossington Main is a keen supporter of both the ‘Respect’ and ‘Kick It Out’ campaigns, as such foul, racial or obscene language will not be
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tolerated within the ground. Please respect the right of all supporters, both home and away, to enjoy the game of football. Please do not; - Ride bicycles in the ground - Smoke in the Main Stand or any club buildings - Stand in front of the seated areas - Allow dogs off their leads - Consume alcohol from glass containers at pitchside. - Enter the field of play before, during or after the game, other than at times necessitated for Health & Safety. All vehicles parked at Oxford Street are done so at the vehicle owner’s risk, though our shooting has improved in recent seasons. Thank you for supporting your local football team, and for purchasing this matchday programme.
MAIN ISSUE // Official Matchday Magazine of Rossington Main FC
TODAY’S TEAMS MATCH OFFICIALS
ROSSINGTON MAIN Steve Lodge Ian Wilson George Spears
vs
HALLAM
MANAGER
Jordan WILDEY Liam COPLEY Richard SPEARS Bradley BILLAM Danny TAYLOR Nathan COOK David HOLVEY John TUNNEY Chris HANSON Jonathan MIRFIN Ben CLARK Niall DOYLE Brandon FALLON Dean THORNTON Nathan FRASER Adam WISDOM Scott MAUGHAN Scott SPENCER Ben HUNTER Marcel CHIPAMUNGA
ASST. COACH
OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO O O O
Julian Watts Chris Sellars Richard Stevenson Andy COULSON Ben COBLEY Khalid ALAI Paul LAVENDER Rob ADGIE Steve WANKIEWICZ James COOK Craig GETLIFF Liam MORRIS Conor SELLARS Danny DEAKIN Danny WILTSHIRE Adam CARTER Jonathan WRAGG Wes HILL Steve JEFFRIES Charlie ANDERSON
UPCOMING FIXTURES HERE AT OXFORD STREET Weds 3rd April // 7:00pm
Sat 6th April // 2:30pm
vs Kinsley Boys
vs Bawtry Town
2ND TEAM
(Doncaster Senior League)
2ND TEAM
(K.O. Cup Semi-Final)
Benn Cass
(Lincolnshire)
James Gelder
(South Yorkshire)
Stephen Lazenby (South Yorkshire)
Teamsheets for today’s game are available at a cost of 20p at the far end of the Main Stand from just prior to kick-off
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On behalf of all at Oxford Street enjoy the game and have a safe journey home.
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Thank you for supporting your local team