Squires Gate v 1874 Northwich

OFFICIAL 40 PAGE MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF SQUIRES GATE Pic by Albert Cooper

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CONTACT US Squires Gate Football Club School Road, Blackpool, Now you might be asking, why we have turned our page green for today’s game? Are we confused?

The answer is no. We want to raise awareness for Mental Health, and how much it affects football in the modern era.

As the Mental Health Awareness ribbon is green, and our visitors today also play in green, it just works well.

Turning our heads to today’s game, and we host a very strong 1874 Northwich side.

Gate head in to today’s game on the back of 4 straight defeats in league and cup during September but under new management, will be needing time to adapt.

1874 however, will be looking to make it 4 wins in a row.

Jay Hayden, Programme Editor

FY4 5DS

Email: squiresgatefc@gmail.com Website: www.squiresgatefc.co.uk Twitter: @squiresgatefc Facebook: Squires Gate FC

EXECUTIVE: Chairman: John Maguire Co-Chairman: Tony Jo Treasurer: Mark Ashmore Secretary: John Maguire First Team Manager: Assistant Manager: Director of Football: Jimmy Salthouse Physio: Lucy Gray Club President: Brian Addison

IN TODAY’S ISSUE 4

FROM THE DUGOUTS

12

VIEW FROM THE AWAY END

8

ABOUT 1874

17

Q&A WITH NATHAN OKOME

18

MEET THEIR PLAYERS

19

ONES TO WATCH

20

NAME NAMES

23

MATCHDAY CENTRE

25

NWCFL STATS

26

VIEW FROM THE HOME END

27

IN THE NEWS

28

NON LEAGUE DAY

32

GROUNDHOPPING

34

LOS BOYOS

Committee: John Maguire, Mark Ashmore, Steve Bellamy, Brian Addison, Colin Smith, Karl Townson, Spencer Leader, Chris Chadwick, Nick Grindley, Tony Jo Media: Albert Cooper, Mark Ashmore Programme Editors : Jay Hayden, Dan Hayden Gate Attendee: Jay Hayden Groundsman: Brian Addison, Steve Bellamy, Roy Bar: Denise Gibson and Chris Chadwick

NOTE: The words in this programme are NOT those of Squires Gate FC, and facts and stats are as accurate as can be at the time of writing.

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HERE’S WHAT THE GAFFERS SAY: LUKEgame EVANS Hello and welcome to today’s versus 1874 Northwich.

PAUL BOWYER

Being just two weeks into the job I am learning new things all Speaking The Gate ahead of today’s game, 1874 manager of the time. It is fantastic to see what work goes on at this club Paul Bowyer hopes to see his side bounce back after he felt behind the scenes. his side had dropped 2 points last weekend, when they went on to concede in the last minute to Avro. Here’s what he has to We have had a very productive week this week following on say to the travelling 1874 fans today: from last week’s game versus Irlam. I felt that our performance “A trip to Squires Gate is one of the first fixtures looked at by on Saturday did not mirror the result I felt that 5-1 to Irlam many ‘74 supporters, probably hoping for a trip in the sunshine flattered them somewhat and I felt it was more a case of them but as a management team we’re well aware of how difficult of taking their chances more so than we did. We have learn that a place it is to come to. We seem to have too often come away when you switch off in games you get punished. On top of that frustrated and disappointed in recent seasons so we’re hoping there were some very tidy strikes at goal from them. for a positive outcome from this game.

Ultimately you have to take your chances in football and we We’re in relatively good form coming into the game and are did not hence the scoreline but I took positives out of the game looking to kick on this month as we play catch up on league that we have tried to build on this week. fixtures. With not many league games going ahead today, this Obviously we find ourselves at the bottom of the table at this moment in time but I see many plus points to our squad and with the additions that we have stuck in already I feel that we will be out of trouble within no time at all it is just a case of us finding a way of playing that suits the personnel that we currently have in order to get the best out of them.

On Wednesday of this week we hosted the Fleetwood town International Academy. This provided myself and Shane the perfect opportunity to see every single member of our squad playing some part of the game. We dominated for large parts of the game and we came away with both positives and negative‘s which is perfect for what we are currently trying to achieve.

We look forward to playing 1874 Northwich today myself and Shane attended their fixture versus Congleton in mid week and once again this will prove to be a tough fixture but I feel that we have enough in our squad to defeat anybody in this league on any given day it is down to us as a squad to turn potential into points.

With the games now coming thick and fast we find ourselves at home again on Tuesday night versus Northwich Victoria with having games in hand at the bottom of the league if we can turn those into victories then we will be out of trouble in no time at all.

Get behind the boys and we will try our best to repay you with 3 points. Enjoy the game!

Luke 4

is the first opportunity to claw some points back on teams in and around us in the league. The nature of this league this season is that anyone can beat anyone else on their day so it is definitely not a fixture that we are taking lightly and we’ll need to play well and take our chances to pick up three points.

I’m sure the new management team (at Squires Gate) are looking for an upturn in form and I’ve got no doubt that they’ll manage this given time.

See you all Saturday!

Bows”

Pic by Albert Cooper

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Formed: 1874

Nickname: ‘74 Ground: Townfield Capacity: 1,000 Colours: Green shirt, black shorts and green socks

HONOURS: Supporters Direct Shield 2013-14 Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup 2015-16, 2016-17 MACRON Cup 2018-19

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WELCOMING OUR OPPONENTS FROM NORTHWICH In sport, there is a truism which states that ‘you are only as good as your last game’. When it comes to football, a lot of pundits argue that this saying can be amended to ‘you are only as good as your last season’. So given that 2017/18 had proved to be far and away the most exciting and memorable in the short history of 1874 Northwich, last season was always going to be a touch act to follow.

After all, how do you follow up a campaign during which; •

1874 defeated National League North and former FA Trophy winners North Ferriby in the FA Cup

The joyous scenes that followed the final whistle will live in the memories of all the 500+ ‘74 fans that were lucky to be there and further vindicated the decision that they had taken just over 6 years earlier to form a new club.

You see, ‘74 was formed as recently as November 2012 when disillusioned members of what was known as the Northwich Victoria Supporters Trust - who were disillusioned and tired of the way that ‘their’ club had been run by several successive regimes - voted overwhelmingly to form a new fans-run club.

In doing so, 1874 became one of an increasing number of clubs - such as FC United of Manchester, Chester, AFC • Finally exited the competition on penalties in the 3rd Rushden & Diamonds, and AFC Wimbledon - whom are Qualifying Round replay owned and operated by their supporters as a not-for profit, • The ‘Go-Bo’ army reached the last four of the FA Vase, community benefit societies. In short, ‘74 is run in an inclusive, only for eventual winners Thatcham Town to deny them democratic and transparent manner that puts the interests of a trip to Wembley by triumphing 4-2 on aggregate. the fans and the community we represent first and foremost.

Frankly, it would have been astonishing if ‘74 had been able to 1874 staged its first competitive fixture against Oldham Boro. equal the successes of the previous 12 months. After all, even Just under 500 fans turned up to see a little bit of history being the top clubs in the country struggle to repeat their previous made and although they didn’t see their team start with a win triumphs - so why should this not be true for ‘74? the game ended 1-1 - the sheer joy and enthusiasm for ‘their’ In the end, a final finishing position of 10th - the lowest that the club that was demonstrated that afternoon was obvious. club has finished since being promoted to the Premier Division However, there was to be no fairytale ending to the clubs’ first in 2015 - does seem to suggest a further decline in the clubs’ campaign as previous seasons champions Formby beat ‘74to fortunes. But that would be completely missing the point… the second promotion spot on goal difference. But, just as they resigned ourselves to a second season playing First Division You see, 1874’s final standing was hugely influenced by a poor start to the season in which the loss of key players from football, news came through about the sudden and unfortunate the 17/18 campaign - allied to a cruel run of injuries to many of demise of ‘The Squirrels. As a result the league management committee asked 1874 if they could step up to the Premier the clubs’ key creative and attacking players - resulted in a Division. somewhat disjointed first few months of the season.

Whilst retaining the bulk of the squad who had served the club The result of this was that a realistic title charge was not on so well in it’s inaugural campaign, several judicious and well the cards and, equally disappointing, ‘74 also suffered early exits in both the FA Cup and Vase. Another factor that the club judged additions were made to the squad and from the very didn’t full appreciate the impact that the untimely death in 2018 outset that 1874 were going to be in the mix. As it transpired, of the inspirational and dearly loved chairman, Paul Stockton the side finished in a hugely creditable third spot - which was way beyond the expectations of the vast majority of fans. had done to the club.

Given these factors, it might have been easy for the club to let Every year, 1874 have an annual beer festival which draws an attendance of over 300 and raises over £3000 for the club! A the season drift out to a below par end. However, the board, the management team, the supporters were not prepared to let 200 club - now numbering 350+ was also established and the this happen and collectively banded together and as a result, money generated from this initiative helps to reduce the clubs in the last third of the season, the club went on to win 10 of it’s reliance on gate receipts as its principal source of income. remaining 16 games, drawing 3 and losing 3.

This season will be another landmark campaign as, for the first time, 1874 will finally be playing within the boundary of the Of this sequence, the most memorable and important one town of Northwich having signed a 2 year agreement to share came on the afternoon of Saturday 4th May when ‘74 lifted their first major piece of silverware when an 88th minute goal Barnton’s Townfield Lane stadium. from Aaron Smith proved enough to win the MACRON Cup. So, all in all, 1874 is a club that is on the up...

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PAUL BOWYER & WAYNE GOODISON At 1874, it is a joint management team as Paul Bowyer and Wayne Goodison aim to guide them to promotion this season. They are into their third season in charge, so could it be third time lucky for ‘74?

Paul started his 1874 career as an experienced centre half, who was also a dependable squad member who then joined the backroom staff as a coach, and then went onto be assistant manager. Paul’s name can also still be found under the team list when 1874 are short for players, and can always be relied on to bring some experience to the matchday squad.

However, he last ventured onto the pitch in January 2014. His former clubs include Alsager Town, and Congleton Town.

Wayne Goodison has made over 200 appearances in the Football League, as he played right back for Barnsley, Crewe Alexandra and Rochdale amongst others.

His managerial career started after he retired as player, he had a six match spell as caretaker manager at Salford City in 2008, but has also worked as assistant manager at Trafford, Chorley, and Rossendale United but joined 1874 Northwich as joint manager in April 2017.

Speaking to the Northwich Guardian at the end of August, he explained why he took the role as joint manager “I fell into a role as player manager at Buxton many years ago and that was an impossible task so I actually said I’d prefer not to manage again. Doing it on a joint basis does suit me, and Paul perfectly. We both have our strengths and weaknesses of course.”

When Wayne originally joined the club at the start of the 2015 season as first team coach, he saw a lot of transition in his role, not just on a matchday but also in training. He went on to say “As a coach under Ian (Street) I had no say in team selection or match tactics, Paul obviously did, to a certain degree as assistant manager, and that was right as two voices are enough really. I think we both realised early on that we could develop a good relationship around team issues and how we wanted to do things so that made the transition smooth enough” The attention is on the current season, and the joint manager says he wants 1874 to be more competitive than last season, and if they are able to do that then he expects a decent season. “The players have worked really hard to improve physically and in their style of play since we came back in June, and I’d really like them to have a good season just for that reason alone!”

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HOW 1874 HAVE BOUGHT TOGETHER THE LOCAL COMMUNITY Last weekend, 1874 at home to Skelmersdale United, but not in their usual home strip? An idea that has done wonders on social media, and attracted interest from the National Football Museum. Ashley Dobell explains to The Gate how the idea came about.

“We had the pleasure of welcoming the National Football Museum to our game at the end of September. They had picked up on the interest generated around our away shirt and arranged a filming day with us. They will be showcasing the shirt at a forthcoming exhibition at the Manchester site.

This kit has done far better than we could have ever imagined.

There’s a bit of a story to it, so we’re proud that it’s got so much attention.

Back at our AGM, last November, a club member put forward a motion that was voted and agreed on that we were to have a The professionalism behind this was on another level. The new away kit and move away from the claret that we had used launch went down so well. For many of our supporters it just for the past five years. showed the progressiveness of what makes 1874 as a club I was pleased to be invited to join a sub-committee that was to unique. We really did it justice. oversee this project. The initial plan was for us to welcome Phil came up with this complex idea that is so bold, different, designs from our supporters, but we also extended that to and although not everyone cup of tea - just gets us that little football fans from all over. We received hundreds of bit of notice that a team of our size doesn't normally get. To suggestions – a variety of patterns, colours and unique see it at the National Football Museum is great reward for the designs. This was a strong social media campaign that started people who’ve put a lot of effort into the process. We’re glad to generate interest and put us in touch with people in the kit that 1874 has been recognised like this. concept community.

We are aiming to do something special with our home kit that As soon as the topic of new away kit came up, I knew this was is due for renewal. It might not get as much attention this time the chance to link 1874 Northwich and Phil Galloway. I had round, but we’ll certainly have some fun in the process!” been wanting the club to get in with Phil for a few years after seeing some of his work for big name brands like Nike, BT, NOW THAT’S A CONCEPT! Microsoft. Phil lives locally and is a seriously talented digital artist.

1874 are also running a competition to design their new kit for After contacting Phil and selling the project, as well as the club the 2020/21 season, fans can forward the idea to the official to him - I sensed we were onto something. We wanted to grab twitter account, and I’ve got to admit there are some beauties! some attention to highlight our move to Northwich after This club is doing everything it can to bring together the local spending our first six seasons playing out of the town in Winsford. Our sub-committee whittled the designs down and community, and so far it has bought in a lot of attention from further than just it’s local community. put forward a colour range that went to vote again. Our membership picked 'light blue' and we handed that information and the entire pack of submitted designs, along with a brief to Phil who came up with the unique design. A long process followed where our kit manufacturer turned a digital design into reality. We eventually got there.

After seeing a sample of the finished product, this is where we really saw it kick-on and pick up interest. We had a bit of a promo evening where a photographer met us in our town centre along with a few of our players for a photoshoot.

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Luke Bushnell-Wye, Callum Waters & Mat Thomas

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Speaking to The Gate this week, Luke Bushnell-Wye, who designed the first 1874 Northwich badge which was used for three seasons back in 2012 until it was changed to the current design, and supporters Callum Waters and Mat Thomas give us an insight to our visitors today. Please note that this is their own view, and NOT views of 1874 Northwich.

First of all what encouraged you to start watching football, and more importantly 1874 Northwich?

LBW: I think my first football memories were of wondering why my Grandpa was getting so animated watching the TV. Turns out it was the USA ‘94 coverage. I then spent most of my weekends as a child glued to the coverage of Gazzetta Italia on Channel Four, where it was the pageantry of the whole thing that had me hooked. Sampdoria, in particular. What a kit.

It’s no surprise then that when we started 1874, I immediately got my claws into the design side of things. I was handed the commission to design the first badge by the board, and the rest is history. A community club that I could help shape and be a real part of - I can’t think of any reason I’d turn that chance down.

CW: I started watching at the age of 7, and unfortunately only saw poor management of a previous club that I used to watch.

Once 1874 were set up it was a no brainer really, what’s better than owning part of a club that you support?

MT: I don’t think you can grow up in the North West without investing some of your life to sport. I started watching after playing on a Saturday morning. First division (as it was) was always a bit out of reach, so I chose local non league.

As for ‘74, I moved away from the area for 25 years with work, I moved back “home” and settled in Winsford. We wondered to the Barton Stadium and ‘74 were playing, the rest is history.

What are your expectations for the rest of the campaign?

LBW: I think that we need to be aiming for promotion this year.

There are 3 spots, and whilst there are a lot of teams gunning for them - I’m predicting a really close top of half of the table this year, with 5 or 6 teams that could easily hold their own in the league above - that has to be our aim. We’ve shown in the past couple of years with our cup runs that we are more than a match for anyone on our day, we just need to keep the goals coming and convert those cup performances into league position. “Just”, he says…

CW: I think the obvious goal is to gain promotion with the extra spaces this season - if we do that by winning the league then that would be the icing on the cake really! We’ve had a strong start, and I hope it continues!

MT: I think promotion is a reality. It will get especially tough around Christmas with the pitch and fixtures, it is achievable.

Did you own any football shirts growing up? Who was your footballing idol?

LBW: Mostly glory hunting Manchester United ones, though thankfully I’ve long since grown out that phase. There were plenty of players who I admired across many teams though Stuart Pearce, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Justin Edinburgh, Darren Anderton, Pierluigi Casiraghi...but whenever I scored a goal on the playground, I was always Gabriel Batistuta in my head.

CW: I never really had a football idol, but I owned several home strips of the team which I previously supported.

MT: I was never a collector of shirts, but lucky enough to grow up with some great football being played. Who doesn’t love the classic Brazil number?

Do you remember your first 1874 game? What was the score?

LBW: I actually moved to Brighton for work immediately after we had formed, and ended up missing the entire first season.

By the time I had made it back up to the North West for my

course, the first match I caught was actually in the FA Cup. We beat Maine Road in the extra preliminary round in the first match that ‘74 had ever played in the competition, and seeing the badge I designed on FA Cup literature, in a competition that storied, that historic? I don’t think many feelings match that.

CW: My first game was a friendly away at Congleton which we won 1-0. The first competitive game I went to was away at Chadderton - a nice introduction to the NWC football with a very friendly chairman who moved his car to allow us to park!

MT: I don’t remember the opposition, or the score. (Although I think it may have been you!)

What has been your favourite game? Any memorable moments?

LBW: I think several of the games in that FA Vase run could lay a claim to that particular title. The home wins against Pontefract and Chichester were good, but the trip down to Leighton to win a tough match one-nil was fantastic. We never stopped singing all match. Going to Congleton and winning 5-0 last season, we made a day of it, and ran out thumping victors in a match we’d all expected to be really close. As for some memorable moments, we look no further than the Macron Cup win last season. Aaron Smith’s goal and Woolley lifting the trophy. I don’t think I’ll ever forget these moments.

CW: In our short history, we are lucky to have been a part of many memorable games - I couldn’t pick an all time favourite but beating Witton Albion 3-0 on their pitch to lift our first ever trophy has to be up there. Not forgetting, our quarter final win at Leighton Town, and our most recent Macron Cup win vs City of Liverpool.

MT: Macron Cup final last year. Dominated the game vs a very strong City of Liverpool side, and deserved winners. Mitch’s couple of last minute winners a couple of years ago sticks in mind as well.

What makes non league football unique?

LBW: You just have to look around don’t you? Where else can you get that close to the action, that close to the players?

Where else can you share a pint with the team and managers after the game without feeling that you’re taking up too much of their time? In fact, you don’t even have to look beyond this column; fans asking other fans to help complete the matchday programme? Lovely stuff.

CW: To me, it’s the close knit bond between fans, players and owners. Premier League football bores me, there is too much money involved which is why I support my local non league side!

MT: I like the atmosphere, it’s generally friendly. I like to be able wander round the ground at half time and change ends.

I like seeing the same faces at games, I like the social media interaction, I like the fact that the guys playing on a Saturday are people like us, normal jobs, normal lives. I like the fact that someone isn’t playing on a Saturday because they are at a wedding or christening. Normal people, normal lives.

Which ‘74 players are the ones to watch for Gate today?

LBW: Scotty goes without saying, but I'd probably say any of our interchanging attacking midfielders - without wanting to single out anyone in particular. We've got a few who can play in that area behind Scotty now, and during those passages of play where they click we've played teams off the park. There have been plenty of times it hasn't worked of course, but when it does..

CW: Scott McGowan, Jake Parker, and Lee Jackson, who has been outstanding at centre half this season.

MT: It’s a crime if I don’t name Scotty.. Love his desire, Jakey Parker is proving the faith Goody and Bows has to bring him back, great player, skill full and is scoring some great goals.

George (my son and partner in crime) wouldn’t forgive me if I don’t mention big Tone. Pulled off some great saves this and last season.

Favourite grounds to visit?

LBW: I've always enjoyed it at Congleton. It's a good little ground with a superb catering van and a nice place to make a day out of. We always seem to come away with some points as well which is nice. Otherwise, Padiham is a nice trip out assuming the weather's decent, and Bootle's my nearest NWCFL ground so I've been there a fair few times as a neutral as well. Outside of the counties, I think Griffin Park is a brilliant old school stadium. That two-tier stand is unique, and a pub on every corner? Iconic. I'm aiming to make another trip down before Brentford say goodbye at the end of the season.

CW: Congleton away is always one of my favourite games of the season. Also enjoy visiting Charnock. Any game that we can get to on the train with a few beers is a winner for me!

MT: I like Charnock Richard.Nice ground. The Barton Stadium is 5 mins drive away, so that’s a good one for me.

If you could sign 3 PL players on a free transfer, who would you sign and why?

LBW: Son Heung-min, without a doubt. I absolutely adore watching this man play football. And then, we've struggled with availability of centre-backs this year, so probably a couple of leaders there - Jan Vertonghen and Willy Boly, for example. I'd say Van Dijk, but everyone would say him wouldn't they.

CW: None, they are all overpaid big time Charlie’s.

MT: VVD so Jonah can mentor him! Sterling so we have cover for Jake Parker, Mane for when Scotty needs a rest!

Who are the toughest opposition you’ve played against?

Any teams you hate playing?

LBW: Thatcham Town were untouchable for huge parts of the semi-final we played against them in the FA Vase. We gave them a good shot, but they're probably the best side at our 13

level that I've seen us play against. Within the counties, I always hate playing Barnoldswick. Maybe it's just coincidence, but whenever I watch us play them we just seem to fall to pieces. I did hate playing Linnets too but now they've gone up I almost miss them.

CW: Thatcham Town are probably the best team we’ve played, I hate playing Irlam, they always seem to beat us at home.

MT: Runcorn Town, tough scrap there this season. Winsford seem to have a bogey on us (apart from this seasons game.)

If you were to have a 5 a side team, with 2 ‘74 players and 3 PL legends. Who is in your team?

LBW: Scotty up front, with Robbie Keane supporting him.

Then Mark Jones in the middle offering some stability, John Arne Riise offering grit and power at the back, and Peter Schmeichel dominating the area. Sorted.

MT: Great question- big Tone, Jonah he makes the game look easy, someone who can open a game up like Gerrard, a finisher like Aguero, and a Sterling type player who has great control and can find space in a phone box.

Have you been to Squires Gate before, if so what was the score?

LBW: I have, but I genuinely can't remember the score. I think we won, but my memory of the day is dominated by the swarm of flying ants that descended on us.

CW: I’ve never been!

MT: Never been, looks like I can’t this time either, but I will, that’s a promise.

Do you have any matchday rituals or superstitions that you have to do before a game?

LBW: Don't know about superstitions and rituals, but certainly some bad food and beer related habits that I seem to slip into every Saturday.

CW: Spoons breakfast, shirt on over hoodie.

MT: Not really. Apart from chasing George to get ready.

Having to turn around for my ST is turning into a ritual.

Which NWCFL clubs do you think will go up, and who will be relegated this season?

LBW: Ha! No comment. Like I said earlier, I think there's a good handful of clubs that could go up this season. Ask me again in March.

CW: 1874, Bootle and Irlam. Litherland REMYCA to go down.

MT: I think it’s a challenge at both ends again. Extra promotion places makes that end of season run in have more important.

We will be up there, them lot have a good chance, I havent really seen much of those that came into the league from last year apart from Skem yesterday, but Rylands are in a great run. Bootle we’re close last year. Some clubs have tempted great players over the close season. I think the fixture bottle neck will be a big factor in the ups and downs. I’ll admit to a bit of fence sitting here.

Finally, your prediction for today’s game?

LBW: ‘74 to nick it with a couple of quick goals at the start of the second half. Scotty and Knight scoring in a 2-0 win.

CW: 2-0 ‘74 win!

MT: I think it’s a ‘74 win today (sorry). We seem to be putting a run of wins together. Like they say if you can not play well and still win then that’s the sign of a good side.

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Above: The original 1874 Northwich badge, designed by Luke.

Above: The MACRON Cup success for the club last season. Woolley lifts the trophy.

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Nathan Okome I’d say Prestwich Heys, they were just well organised and knew how to counter the way that we played.

What would you say your favourite goal of all time is?

Well it’s between Cristiano Ronaldo’s 40 yard screamer against Porto in the Champions League, and Wayne Rooney’s overhead kick in the derby against Manchester City. For me, I can’t choose between them.

What has been your most memorable moment, in your career and for 1874?

From 1874 Northwich, 18 year old Nathan Okome talks to The Well, my most memorable one is being able to play at Old Gate this week, Nathan was once on the books of League Trafford, as a United fan, that is stuff of dreams. My most Two side Crewe Alexandra, and joined 1874 this summer. memorable 1874 one so far, is when I came on at Winsford, First of all, what encouraged you to start playing football? where most my friends came down to watch, we won and I got How long have you played for 1874, and what position do man of the match within 55 minutes. you usually play?

If you were able to play alongside one player from the Well the main reason I started playing football was because of Premier League, who would it be and why? my dad, when I was younger we would always watch football It would be N’Golo Kante 100%,. Just because of how world matches together, match of the day, etc. I guess from there that I just naturally look a liking to the sport. This is my debut class he is, you just know exactly what you are going to get from him, he works hard and makes the game as simple as season at 1874, and the position I usually play for them is in centre midfield however when I play for teams in my own age possible, and I believe he is up there with being one of the best midfielders in the world. group, I tend to play in defence.

You are the DJ before the game, what is the first song on Which team do you support? your playlist? Who has the worst music taste at 1874?

Manchester United Dave - Wanna Know. For worst music taste, I would have to Did you have any footballing idols growing up? say Jacko (Lee Jackson) he is the main DJ but I just don’t rate Yes, since I grew up mainly watching Manchester United, one anything that he plays! Maybe just because we have different of my idols was Paul Scholes, but I also liked Ronaldinho, he music taste? was magical on the ball.

You can sign 2 PL players for 1874 on a free transfer. Who do you sign?

Can you give us a brief history of your career?

Well the first club I remember starting at was a team called Reddish Vulcans when I was 7-8, from there I got signed by Manchester United, after 3 years there I then moved to Crewe Alexandra where I was for another 3-4 years. During my final year there, I picked up an injury which resulted in me not being able to play for 2 years. I then signed for a team called Airbus UK and was there for a total of 3-4 years again, played for Knutsford last season and now I’m with 1874.

Do you have any superstitions or rituals that you have to do before a game?

N’Golo Kante, so we can build that midfield partnership that I was talking about, and Sergio Aguero because he is just world class.

What is the most embarrassing memory you have as a footballer?

Well, when I was younger, I played in a tournament. My friends ball ended up in a swamp, and I thought I could get it, I slipped and fell in, I had to try and clean my kit in the sink with my dad. It didn’t make any difference it was still smelly and I ended up missing the final of the tournament because of it.

There may be a few that I might not even realise that I do, but I You are the manager of a 5 a side team. You can pick 2 always say a small prayer before I play.

1874 players, and 3 PL legends. Who is in your team?

Who are the toughest opponents you have faced, as a Peter Schmeichel, Rio Ferdinand, Lee Knight, Sam Hare, and team and personally?

Thierry Henry.

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An insight to 1874

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TONY AGAHYERE

NICK WARD

LEE JACKSON

Position: Goalkeeper

Position: Goalkeeper

Position: Defender

21 year old keeper, signed at the start of the 2018/19 campaign.

37 year old who brings vital experience to ‘74.

Signed in 2019.

26 year old defender signed who has played for Stockport County.

JACK PRITCHARD

RYAN MITCHELL

MATT RUSSELL

Position: Defender

Position: Defender

Position: Defender

Has played for New Mills and Hyde. Was POTS for Congleton.

Made his 1874 debut in their first ever fixture.

Over 200 apps for ‘74.

Won the NWCFL league with Glossop North End.

GEORGE MACREADY

JACK TINNING

MARK JONES

Position: Defender

Position: Defender

Position: Midfielder

Signed from Chester FC in August 2019. A good addition to ‘74.

21 years old, who made the step up from the U21 team last summer.

Joined this summer after he captained Nantwich Town.

NATHAN OKOME

CALLUM GARDNER

JAKE PARKER

Position: Midfielder

Position: Midfielder

Position: Midfielder

18 year old, started his career at Macclesfield Town.

Joined in 2018, has scored 5 goals in 42 apps for the club.

Started his career at Fleetwood, joined 1874 in 2017.

JAMES ORMROD

SAM HARE

JACK IRLAM

Position: Midfielder

Position: Midfielder

Position: Midfielder

20 year old, a good addition to the squad, and a useful player.

Previously played for Glossop North End, and Stockport County.

22 years old, known for creating chances out of nothing.

RYAN JACKSON

HARRY CAIN

JOE WOOLLEY

Position: Forward

Position: Forward

Position: Forward

Signed in 2015, he has 76 apps for the club, with 25 goals.

Winger, who signed from Sandbach United.

23 years old, has been a first team regular since 2014.

MIKE KORAL

TAYLOR KENNERLEY

LEE KNIGHT

Position: Forward

Position: Forward

Position: Forward

Signed from Winsford United midway through last season.

21 year old who signed in 2016, has made 100 apps for 1874.

Striker formally with Oldham Athletic, and Padiham.

KYLE PHIPPS

SCOTT McGOVERN

Position: Forward

Position: Forward

17 year old, became the clubs youngest ever scorer last season.

Knows where the goal is, is a major threat going forward.

Now in his 7th season for the club, he is one of the longest serving 1874 players, and lifted the Macron Cup last season, as captain.

He joined in February 2014 from Cheshire League side Knutsford FC, and has also had spells at Congleton Town, Alsager and Witton Albion. He was also a member of the FC Halifax Team which formed in 2008.

Woolley passed 100 apps for 1874 at the back end of the last campaign.

CAPTAIN

An insight to 1874

Best 1874 moment: Mid Cheshire Cup win vs Witton Albion

McGowan was signed from Congleton Town for the 2016/17 season and has played a vital part in the progress of 1874.

Scott holds the distinction of being only one of two players to net a hat trick against 1874, when he played for Congleton Town.

During his time with the bears, he became a fan favourite after he scored 30 goals in 56 games, and was also regularly on the scoresheet for Styal FC in the Cheshire League.

The forward netted a club record 42 goals during the 2017/18 season, and he overtook Mike Brandon to become the record goal scorer for 1874. Lethal.

Aged 35, Sam Hind signed from Abbey Hey in 2016/17 and is now in his 4th season for 1874. He is a very skilful defender, who recently switched positions from striker.

The majority of his footballing career was spent at Glossop North End, where he scored 78 goals for The Hillmen, and also had a spell at Mossley during the 2012/13 season.

Sam adds experience, and has played at Wembley in the FA Vase final. It’s no doubt that he will be one to keep an eye on today and will be sure to show is presence in the Gate box.

Best 1874 moment: Hat trick against Congleton Town 19

BY DAN HAYDEN

In this feature, test your knowledge on some of the most famous results in football, can you name the starting line up for each team? Going back to 2013 this week, to the play off semi final where Watford faced Leicester. A bit of a tricky one this week, but both teams have some big names in their starting XI.

WATFORD 1

Joined from Arsenal in 2012

1

Still the clubs number 1 keeper

12 Now plays for Kings Langley

15 England international at Everton

27 Italian RB, gave away the penalty

5

Still captain at the club.

17 Swedish centre back. Joel _____

2

Spent time at United from 09-12

40 Ex Fulham, has played for Milwall

11 Went to Watford in 2015-2017

39 Re-joined the club last summer

10 Currently on loan at Rangers

22 Recently released by Sheff Wed

16 United youth player, joined 2012

21 Scottish winger, plays for Derby

24 Now plays for Brighton.

38 Argentinian playmaker

35 Career features Preston and Bury

9

39 Striker, now at Burnley

Still at the club, as the number 9

20 Spent time at WBA, and Derby

20

LEICESTER

18 Palace left back/winger

1 12

27

17

39

22

21

24

18

49

38

20

9

35

39

10

16

15

5

11

2

1 21

PEN PICS

22

BEN FLETCHER

JOSH WOODS

ADAM PENNINGTON

Position: Goalkeeper

Position: Goalkeeper

Position: Goalkeeper

Apps: 6

Apps: 4

Apps: 1

Clean Sheets: 0

Clean Sheets: 0

Clean Sheets: 0

JORDAN GIDLEY

JOEY MULLEN

DAVE ROSSALL

Position: Goalkeeper

Position: Defender

Position: Defender

Apps: 1

Apps: 8

Apps: 5

Clean Sheets: 0

Goals: 1

Goals: 0

JOSH WESTWOOD

JACOB DAVIS

JAKE HIGHAM

Position: Defender

Position: Defender

Position: Defender

Apps: 11

Apps: 0

Apps: 8

Goals: 2

Goals: 0

Goals: 0

DEAN ING

RYAN DODD

RYAN RILEY

Position: Midfielder

Position: Striker

Position: Striker

Apps: 10

Apps:10

Apps: 2

Goals: 5

Goals: 0

Goals: 0

JOSH POLLARD

SOHAIB AHMED

JORDAN SALTHOUSE

Position: Midfielder

Position: Midfielder

Position: Midfielder

Apps: 11

Apps: 1

Apps:1

Goals: 0

Goals: 0

Goals:0

SAM S-TURNER

MUTUTU CHILUFYA

JAMES BOYD

Position: Midfielder

Position: Midfielder

Position: Midfielder

Apps: 11

Apps: 3

Apps: 11

Goals: 0

Goals: 0

Goals: 3

RYAN CHARNLEY

GEORGE FOX

RICCARDO EGIDI

Position: Midfielder

Position: Striker

Position: Striker

Apps: 5

Apps: 4

Apps: 9

Goals: 0

Goals: 0

Goals: 4

MATT FARNWORTH

TYLER RUFUS

NEW SIGNING

NEW SIGNING

Apps: 0

Apps: 0

Goals: 0

Goals: 0

A PREVIEW OF TODAY’S GAME SQUIRES GATE

1874 NORTHWICH

Squires Gate are yet to win at home this season in the league or cup, and have only managed to pick up 4 points.

1874 are playing catch up with most of their fixtures, after recently being knocked out the FA Cup.

Still without Ben Fletcher, and Westwood could also be a doubt for today, Evans will have to set up well to stop the ‘74 threat.

1874 are good at the back, and lethal when they go forward, and as stats show, they score most goals in the 2nd half.

GATE FORM GUIDE

1874 NORTHWICH FORM GUIDE

WON 2-1

LOST 4-2

LOST 4-1

LOST 6-1

LOST 3-2

LOST 5-1

LOST 1-0

WON 2-0

LOST 1-0

WON 1-0

DREW 1-1

WON 2-1

01/09/19

07/09/19

14/09/19

24/09/19

28/09/19

05/10/19

31/08/19

07/09/19

21/09/19

28/09/19

05/10/19

08/10/19

FA Vase

League

FA Vase

Lancs Cup

League

League

FA Vase

FA Cup

FA Cup

League

League

League

LAST TIME OUT 1874 NORTHWICH 1

1 SQUIRES GATE

Irlam (75)

Egidi (16)

Tuesday 26th March 2019 / Attendance: 158 Gate made one change from their 2-0 win over Runcorn Town the previous Saturday as Dan Gray came in for Joey Mullen at right back. 17 year old Kyle Phipps, who was making his first start of the season for the home side, tested Gate keeper Max Povey.

The visitors took the momentum though, and broke the deadlock after 16 minutes as Riccardo Egidi pounced on a long throw into the box, and fired home from a tight angle.

The home side had won 4 of their previous 6 games prior to this fixture and began to show why in the second half as they were constantly applying pressure. But Andy Clarkson’s side defended solidly until the 75th minute when Jack Irlam headed home a lofted free kick. Neither side could find a winner.

SQUIRES GATE v 1874: HEAD TO HEAD RECORD Played

Gate Wins

Draws

1874 Wins

Gate Goals

1874 Goals

Highest Score

11

3

5

3

14

22

SG 1– 5 1874

27.2%

45.6%

27.2%

1.27 G.PG

2 G.PG 23

25 ASHTON ATHLETIC

AUGUST 3

RUNCORN TOWN

A

2-1

FEBRUARY

6

BURSCOUGH

H

0-1

1

RYLANDS

A

10 WEST DIDSBURY (FAC)

H

1-2

8

LITHERLAND REMYCA

H

17 WINSFORD UNITED

A

5-2

15 BARNOLDSWICK TOWN

H

20 PADIHAM

A

1-2

29 BURSCOUGH

A

26 BARNOLDSWICK TOWN

A

2-2

MARCH

31 WHICKHAM (FA VASE)

A

1-2

SEPTEMBER 7

BOOTLE

7 RUNCORN TOWN

H

14 HANLEY TOWN

A H

H

2-4

21 PADIHAM

14 W. A CELTIC (FA VASE 2Q)

H

1-4

APRIL

24 LANCASTER CITY (LCT 1)

H

1-6

28 AVRO OCTOBER

A

3-2

5

H

IRLAM

12 1874 NORTHWICH

H

15 NORTHWICH VICS

H

19 EMLEY AFC (MACRON CUP)

A

23 LITHERLAND REMYCA

A

26 WHITCHURCH ALPORT

A

29 HANLEY TOWN

H

NOVEMBER

1-5

2

1874 NORTHWICH

A

9

SKELMERSDALE

H

16 LONGRIDGE TOWN

H

23 CHARNOCK RICHARD

A

30 IRLAM

A

TEAM

P

PTS

GD

1

Longridge Town

9

21

+13

2

Bootle

9

20

+8

3

Whitchurch Alport

8

19

+13

4

1874 Northwich

8

19

+11

5

Rylands

11

19

+8

6

Irlam

9

18

+12

2

ASHTON ATHLETIC

H

9

CONGLETON TOWN

A

16 WINSFORD UNITED

H

7

Northwich Victoria

9

17

+14

23 RYLANDS

H

8

Ashton Athletic

10

16

+8

30 NORTHWICH VICS DECEMBER

A

9

Charnock Richard

9

15

0

10 Winsford United

10

15

-1

7

H

11 Barnoldswick Town

10

14

-3

12 Avro

10

13

0

CONGLETON TOWN

14 SKELMERSDALE

A

13 Hanley Town

9

12

-1

21 CHARNOCK RICHARD

H

14 Congleton Town

10

11

-3

26 LONGRIDGE TOWN

A

15 Runcorn Town

8

10

-3

28 AVRO

H

16 Skelmersdale United

10

8

-6

17 Padiham

11

7

-16

18 Burscough

10

5

-18

JANUARY

24

A

4 BOOTLE

A

19 Squires Gate

8

4

-9

11 WHITCHURCH ALPORT

H

20 Litherland REMYCA

10

4

-27

FACTS & FIGURES FROM THE PREMIER DIVSION MOST CLEAN SHEETS

HIGHEST ATTENDANCES

MOST 2ND HALF GOALS

G. McCall (Rylands)

3

1874 v Winsford

403

1874 Northwich

15

B. Barnes (Skelmersdale)

2

Whitchurch v Hanley

333

Whitchurch Alport

15

D. Taberner (N.Vics)

2

North Vics v Burscough

310

Irlam

14

A. Reid (Runcorn Town)

2

Whitchurch v Congleton

294

Longridge Town

14

A. Woolrich (Hanley Town)

2

Runcorn v 1874

287

Northwich Victoria

13

MOST CARDS (Y / R)

TOP SCORERS (ALL)

HIGHEST SCORES

Lith’ REMYCA

30 25 / 5

Paul Turner (LON)

22

Winsford v Gate

5-4

Hanley Town

27 25 / 2

Dale Korie-Butler (ASH)

14

N. Vics v REMYCA

8-0

Avro

26 24 / 2

Carl Grimshaw (CHR)

14

REMYCA v Ashton Ath

1-7

Barnoldswick Town 25 22 / 3

David Howarth (WHA)

10

North Vics v Burscough

6-1

Winsford United

George Lomax (RYL)

9

Avro v Burscough

5-2

25 24 / 1

GATE v 1874: LEAGUE GOALS IN MINUTES 5 4 3 2

2

1 0-10

11-20

WHERE TO SEE GOALS

21-30

31-40

41-45

46-50

51-60

61-70

FORM TABLE (LAST 6)

71-80

81-90

90+

GATE TOP SCORERS

1 Northwich Vics

25

1 Bootle

18

Dean Ing

5

2 Avro

24

2 Ashton Athletic

15

Riccardo Egidi

4

3 Congleton Town

21

3 Charnock Richard

15

James Boyd

3

4 Irlam

20

4 Hanley Town

13

Josh Westwood

2

5 Longridge Town

12

Joe Mullen

1

5 Rylands

20

6 1874 Northwich

19

7 Ashton Athletic

19

8 Winsford United

19

9 Runcorn Town

18

10 Charnock Richard

17

FORM TABLE (LAST 6)

GATE MOST APPS

16 Runcorn Town

4

James Boyd

11

17 Skelmersdale Utd

3

Sam Staunton-Turner

11

18 Squires Gate

3

Josh Pollard

11

19 Litherland REMYCA

2

Dean Ing

10

20 Burscough

0

Riccardo Egidi

9

PIC BY IANPIC DAVIES

25

CHRIS CHADWICK Speaking to The Gate this week, is Gate committee member and fan Chris Chadwick. Chris started helping out at the club back in 2016, when his brother in law Brett Dawson signed for the club. He gives us an insight into his time watching Squires Gate, and which Premier League players he would sign on a free transfer, given the chance.

Virgil Van Dijk, who I’m sure everyone else at the club would pick at the moment too, we need someone to stop us leaking goals, and we need that assertive figure.

First of all, what got you into football, and Squires Gate?

Daniel James, I think he’d fit in well and he’s another young player who has room to grow.

I’m not really sure how I got into football. I sat down watching United with my dad on the telly one day and that was it really, I watch as much footy as I can now. As for Squires Gate, my brother in law, Brett Dawson, was playing at the time and I came down to support them and ended up joining the Squires Gate committee.

What are your expectations for the rest of the season?

James Maddison, I think he’s a great young midfielder who can create chances, picks out passes from nothing, and scores the odd goal.

What makes non league unique?

The reason I’ve stayed around, apart from Denise not letting me leave, is because of how close to the action you can get.

You can stand on the sides with a beer in hand, listen to every shout on the pitch, every crunching tackle, and the overall feel of non league football is great.

After the players we lost in the summer, the slow start that we Your favourite game? have had, and the change of managers, I think avoiding any sort of relegation scrap has to be the main objective, so I am The last home game of the 2016/17 season, when Brett scored two goals coming on from the bench against a very going to hope for a mid table finish. good Runcorn Linnets side who were already promoted, which Do you remember your first game? What was the score? in the end kept us up. We then went on to draw with New Mills, Now you’re asking, I have slept since then, and I normally who were already relegated, the week after. Funny old game. can’t remember the score from last weekend so for my first If you were to have a 5 a side team, with 2 Gate players, game, I have no idea. I do remember that I came back from past or present, and 3 PL legends. Who makes your team?

Spain to watch Brett play, but I can’t remember who it was Van Der Saar, Dennis Irwin, Dean Ing, Ryan Riley, and Paul against. I want to say it was a Tuesday night game.

Scholes.

Did you own any football shirts growing up?

Prediction for today’s game?

Yeah, I had the 1995/96 United shirt with Lee Sharpe on the back. I’ve also had Blackpool ones, and United ones with my Call me optimistic, but 3-2 Squires Gate. name on the back but as you grow older, you tend to grow out that phase but I always keep onto them. But saying that, I do wear my Dortmund shirt on occasions, but mainly because my 6 a side team wear yellow on a Monday night.

Over the years, which players have you enjoyed watching play for Gate?

The obvious first choice would be Brett. I also liked watching Rico and Fletcher, both club legends and they show was this club is about. Especially with Rico being her for a decade.

From the current squad, I’d say Dean Ing and Ryan Riley.

Which 3 NWCFL teams, do you think will go up?

I think Irlam who played us off the park last week have a good chance, Barnoldswick Town who have Ric (Seear), and I think our opposition today, 1874, have a great chance.

You can bring 3 PL players to Gate on a free transfer, who would you sign and why?

26

Pic by Albert Cooper

COLNE: 1 WIN AWAY FROM FA CUP 1st ROUND

IT’S OKAY NOT TO BE OKAY At Squires Gate, we are not asking for you to donate anything, but we are simply trying to raise the awareness of the affect that mental health has in the modern day game, and on life in general.

There are millions of people involved in grassroots football, right now, with mental health problems. One in four people will experience a mental health problem in any year. Over 10% of We all dream of reaching that first round of the FA Cup, being the population have depression at any one time. Robert Enke, drawn against one of the 92 clubs in the Football League, Frank Bruno and Marcus Trescothick show that mental health don’t we? is relevant to everyone in sport, even at the highest level.

Former NWCFL Premier Division side Colne are one win away from being in the FA Cup 1st round proper for the first time in “Mental health problems can affect anyone - footballers too I’m pledging to support Time to Change...It’s okay to talk about their history Although, they face Gateshead in the fourth qualifying round, mental health” said Tony Adams, on the FA website. they will fancy their chances. What a great achievement it Clubs in the Premier League, and Football League have done would be. their part to try and raise awareness over the years, and in So far in the competition, they have overcome South Shields, 2018, players in the Football League started to wear the ‘mind’ Ossett United, and Dunston UTS who they beat 3-2 in the last logo on the back of the shirts. round. After trailing in the game, the Lancashire based side scored 4 minutes from time to stop the tie going to a replay In recent years, former Spurs players Danny Rose, and Peter and secure their name in the hat.

Crouch have opened up about their problems with mental Colne were promoted from the Premier Division in the 2015/16 health in an interview with BBC Sport. season, and have been competing in Northern Premier League Division one ever since. They managed a fantastic 4th Despite being top class footballers, it goes to show that even at the highest level, getting all the money in the world, doesn’t placed finish last campaign and reached the play offs, in a league with 5 recent NWCFL sides. Atherton Collieries were stop mental health. champions, Runcorn Linnets finished 6th, Widnes finished In the interview, Rose goes on to say how football still has a 12th, Glossop North End finished 17th. It just goes to show that there is a lot of teams in this league that can do more than long way to go with how it treats mental health and revealed hold their own in the league above. that he had depression on the eve of the 2018 world cup.

Here at Squires Gate, we would like to wish Colne the best of luck in the next round, but here are some of the tweets to Colne congratulating them on their achievement:

Peter Crouch, renowned for his tall slim build says it was a big problem growing up, and was often judged on his appearance, but soon went on to be a key player for England.

It goes to show that whether you are an elite footballer, or just living a standard life, mental health affects everyone, and if any of your friends stop reaching out, reach out and check if they are okay.

27

Non-League Day was set up by James Doe in 2010 as a social media experiment, after being inspired by a pre-season trip to Devon to watch Queens Park Rangers play at Tavistock. It has now grown to become an annual part of the football calendar, backed by Premier League and Football League clubs, MPs, celebrities, media organisations, charities and most importantly the non-league clubs themselves and the fans who turn up on the day.

Always scheduled to coincide with an international break, Non-League Day provides a platform for clubs to promote the importance of affordable volunteer led community football while giving fans across the country the chance to show support for their local non-league side.

Many non-league clubs are almost exclusively volunteer run, with money taken at the turnstiles often funding thriving youth set-ups, projects and facilities which are of benefit to the whole community. The level of skill on offer at non-league grounds will never compare to that at the Emirates Stadium or Old Trafford, for example, but there are various other sides to the experience, from which the smaller club will always win hands down.

What makes non league unique to us?

DH: When I first started volunteering here, I never realised how much work goes on behind the scenes, we’ve got people like John, Brian, Steve, Roy, Denise and even Jay who are here every week making sure the match goes smoothly, you see the amount of effort and dedication that goes into the club.

The thing I enjoy most about non league, is the involvement, the feeling of actually belonging to a club, I have been to many Watford games, and let’s be honest half the time it doesn’t matter whether you are there or not. Whereas, non league clubs need the local support, and every penny counts.

JH: I genuinely just enjoy watching football, the atmosphere around the club, being able to chat with the players after the game, I always look out for other non league results over Premier League results nowadays.

We’ve now got our dad watching non league football too, but sadly he watches St Albans City instead.

All time 5 a side Gate team?

DH: Fletcher, Westwood, Noblett, Sowerby, Seear JH: Fletcher, Rico, Westwood, Ing, Sowerby 3 PL players to sign for Gate on a free?

DH: When asking away fans this question, I always know Virgil Van Dijk is going to be in there somewhere, but my 3 players would be Etienne Capoue, N’Golo Kante, and Sergio Aguero.

We wouldn’t have to worry about defenders, we’d just outscore our opposition.

JH: David De Gea, N’Golo Kante and Raheem Sterling.

Which non league club would we love to play against?

How did we get into helping out at Squires Gate?

DH: I started volunteering down at Squires Gate in October 2013, and funnily enough my first game was against 1874 Northwich, I think it was their first visit here in the cup and we lost 5-1.

It didn’t put me off though, 17 year old me loved football, and I would come down as often as I could in between going to watch Watford away games too, I just loved how welcoming the club was. I don’t come down as often now due to work but I do get to as many as I can.

JH: In February 2014, Dan asked me to come down and watch Squires Gate, against West Didsbury, I never thought I would be coming down to every home game six years later helping in every way that I can.

28

DH: Being from Hertfordshire, I’d love to see us go up against someone like St Albans City, because our Dad watches them on the odd occasion, or Hemel Hempstead. Ideally, a cup tie against Watford at Vicarage Road would be nice.

JH: It has to be Notts County, or Chesterfield. You’d be mad not to make the most of them being in the lower divisions. I was jealous of Irlam playing York City a few weeks back.

Can Gate get a non league day win?

DH: It’s going to be a tough one if we do, 1874 are one of the best teams in the league without a doubt, and I haven’t got the best record here at the moment. I might have to stay away for this game, 3-0 to the visitors. Reverse psychology and all that?

JH: If Dan’s not here then we have a good chance, I don’t think he has seen Gate win at home since 2017, I’ve told him to keep away. Maybe I’ll have to get John to give him a club ban if we can’t turn our form around.

In all seriousness, I do hope so. I’m going to say 2-1.

29

PREMIER DIVISION, THE BRIAN ADDISON STADIUM, 5.10.19 SQUIRES GATE

1-5

Egidi (26)

IRLAM Perry (2,57), Pollitt (22), Meredith (33), Doyle (89)

Irlam were the visitors last Saturday, as Squires Gate looked to get their first home win of the season, however the Manchester based side had other ideas.

GATE 1

Jordan Gidley

2

Joey Mullen

3

Jake Higham

4

Sam Staunton-Turner

5

Robert Parker

6

Josh Westwood

7

Josh Pollard

8

Dean Ing

9

Riccardo Egidi

10

James Boyd

11

Ryan Charnley

12

Ryan Riley

50

50

The hosts had the first chance of the game within the first minute, but were undone and possession was won instantly by Irlam, which led to a cross field pass from captain Doyle to Marcus Perry who rifled home. Gate had their backs to the wall defending constant Irlam threats, but after 22 minutes a corner from Southworth which Gidley, the Gate keeper who was making his debut, failed to deal with, fell to Pollitt who doubled the visitors advantage.

Egidi pulled one back for the home side 4 minutes later, as Gate looked to get into the game. However, Irlam seemed to just have too much for the young Gate team, and experience started to show through. Squires Gate, well beaten.

Report by Jay Hayden

Pic by Albert Cooper

30

Pic by Albert Cooper

IRLAM 1

Lee White

2

Andre Stewart

3

Dylan Allan-Meredith

4

Charlie Doyle

5

Ryan Ledson

6

Karl Cassell

7

Marcus Perry

8

Callum Nicholas

9

Liam Pollitt

10

Jordan Icely

11

Jordan Southworth

14

George Farrelly

16

Sam Bolton

17

Danny Eyres

78

78 75 75 78 78

Pic by Albert Cooper

Pic by Albert Cooper

Pic by Albert Cooper

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

12 OCTOBER 2002 Bulgaria

2

0

Croatia

Slovakia

1

2

England

Albania

1

1

Switzerland

France

5

0

Slovenia

Watford

2

0

Grimsby

Oxford United

1

0

Swansea

Shola Ameobi Ledley King Carlton Cole THIS WEEK IN FOOTBALL HISTORY On the 6th October 2001, David Beckham was forgiven for his sending off against Argentina as he stepped up to take that famous free kick at Old Trafford against Greece in the 2002 World Cup qualifier. England qualified for the World Cup automatically as Beckham scored, and Germany finished second and had to qualify through the play offs.

What a beauty.

On this day in 1977, Scotland beat Wales in a World Cup qualifier to reach the 1978 tournament - and they were the only British nation to qualify. Even though, Wales were supposedly the home side, 50,850 Scottish fans turned up, making Wales feel like the away team.

Looking back at some old results from 2002, and England came from 1-0 down to win 2-1 against Slovakia with 2 goals from Michael Owen. France put 5 past Slovenia, and now PL Watford, win 2-0 against League Two Grimsby Town.

12 OCTOBER 2013 Preston

0

2

Crewe

Rotherham

0

4

Swindon

Fleetwood

1

1

Chesterfield

Argentina

3

1

Peru

Whitby Town

1

1

Witton Albion

England

4

1

Montenegro

Fast forward 11 years, and on another international weekend, England put 4 past Montenegro with none of the starting XI from the 2002 squad in the starting XI. Townsend, Sturridge and Rooney ease past the Montenegrin side.

HALF TIME QUIZ

Which player holds the record for the most goals in consecutive Premier League games?

A. Ruud Van Nistelrooy B. Jamie Vardy C. Robin Van Persie

Against which team did Wayne Rooney score his 1st Premier League goal?

A. Charlton Athletic B. Newcastle United C. Arsenal Which of these clubs played in the semi finals of the first Europa League in 2010?

A. Liverpool B. Lille C. Standard Liege D. Valencia

How many goals did Gibraltar concede in their first qualifying campaign for Euro 2016?

A. 56 B. 50 C. 61 Which country hosted the first African Cup of Nations?

A. Libya B. Tunisia C. Sudan D. Ethiopia

ANSWERS: EASY - 1.B, 2.B. INTERMIDIATE - 1. C, 2.A. EXPERT - 1.A, 2.C

Which team is nicknamed The Bantams?

A. Derby County B. Bradford City C. Grimsby Town

31

Paul Rowan In our regular programme feature, we speak to groundhoppers What was your biggest footballing idol? from all over the country, about their footballing travels, and Robbie Fowler was mine, amazing footballer. why they visit as many grounds as they can. This week, What is your usual matchday routine when visiting a new speaking to The Gate is groundhopper Paul Rowan. ground? Any matchday rituals?

First of all, what encouraged your footballing adventures?

What is the earliest memory of going to football as a kid? I always try and find a few good pubs before the game to visit and look around a new place to go and I make sure I secure Growing up in Liverpool, football is a big part of people’s lives, that all important programme. so the first game I remember wasn’t the best introduction to As a Liverpool fan, what are your expectations for the PL live football matches. It was Liverpool vs Ipswich in 1993 on season? my birthday and it was one of the worst games I have ever seen, it was 0-0 but being in the Kop was amazing.

This season, I would love us t win the Premier League but with Manchester City about, that will be tough.

How many grounds have you visited up to now?

Early on when I decided to start doing groundhopping I never counted some grounds but a rough estimate now must be around 120-130 grounds.

What has been your most memorable Liverpool game?

Have you visited any obscure grounds?

About Non League

One great away day I went on was Liverpool beating Norwich 5-2 at Carrow Road, with Suarez scoring a hat trick in 2012.

Glentoran in Northern Ireland would be one for me as it is right What makes non league unique?

by Belfast city airport so you also get a great view of the I like how close you can get to the action along with the people planes landing. you meet at the different games I visit. Also being able to have Have you ever watched any games abroad? a pint pitch side is a good thing as in the football league it is not allowed. After the games in the clubhouse, having a chat I have been to Germany, Serbia and USA where I have watched football abroad. In Germany, the teams I have seen with the players is also a great thing too. are FC Koln, Arminia Bielefeld and Union Berlin. In Serbia, I have seen Red Star Belgrade and in USA it was Orlando City.

In each of the games, the atmosphere was fantastic, the pyro in Belgrade especially. The main ground that is top of my list to visit is Arbroath but I’m not sure when I will visit.

What makes the experience different to the English game?

Visiting games abroad is just totally a different experience in the ground and out of it, fan engagement pre game in Orlando with live music and fan areas which makes it a much more fun experience. Obviously Germany is famous for the atmosphere it produces with it allowing fans to drink on the terraces, and the cheaper tickets.

What was the first football shirt you owned as a kid?

One shirt I do remember is the Barcelona away kit with Hristo Stoichkov on the back, the dark green shirt.

32

Any favourite grounds in particular?

I like Mossley and Bacup Borough mainly down to the views you get and the old run down feel of the grounds which are my favourite as I am not a fan of these new builds.

Have you witnessed any historic moments for a club?

The non league team I follow is Marine as I live around the corner and go with a great bunch of lads. It was a couple of years ago, Marine drew Dover away in the FA Cup qualifying rounds, we lost 4-3 but the whole day was great.

You visited Squires Gate for our FA Vase game against West Allotment Celtic, how did you find your visit?

I found it very welcoming, the people I spoke to were very nice, it seems Squires Gate don’t get much support so it would be nice to see an increase in support for the club.

THE LATEST FROM DIVISION 1 DIVISION 1 NORTH TEAM

P

DIVISION 1 SOUTH PTS

GD

TEAM

P

PTS

GD

1

Lower Breck

10

25

+25

1

FC Oswestry Town

11

27

+18

2

Ashton Town

10

20

+16

2

Vauxhall Motors

9

24

+25

3

Shelley

10

18

+5

3

West Didsbury & Chorlton

10

23

+10

4

Holker Old Boys

10

18

+2

4

Stone Old Alleynians

11

23

+9

5

Emiley AFC

10

17

+1

5

Abbey Hey

11

22

+5

6

Daisy Hill

10

17

-1

6

Eccleshall

11

19

+7

7

Chadderton

10

16

+1

7

Wythenshawe Town

10

17

+15

8

AFC Liverpool

10

15

+7

8

Cammell Laird

11

17

+6

9

Golcar United

10

15

+7

9

Wythenshawe Amateurs

11

15

-2

10 Atherton LR

11

15

-6

10 Abbey Hulton United

11

15

-5

11 AFC Blackpool

10

14

+1

11 Maine Road

10

14

-1

12 Prestwich Heys

9

13

-4

12 Sandbach United

9

12

0

13 Cleator Moor Celtic

10

12

-5

13 Cheadle Heath Nomads

10

12

-1

14 Nelson

11

12

-8

14 Alsager Town

11

12

-7

15 Bacup Borough

11

11

-5

15 Barnton

11

12

-9

16 AFC Darwen

10

11

-6

16 Stockport Town

10

11

0

17 Pilkington

10

10

+1

17 St Martins

10

9

-9

18 St Helens Town

11

10

-5

18 Cheadle Town

11

8

-14

19 Garstang

10

9

-15

19 New Mills

11

6

-20

20 Steeton

11

8

-11

20 Ellesmere Rangers

11

2

-30

RESULTS Golcar United

1

0

Shelley

Cheadle Town

2

2

Eccleshall

Prestwich Heys

4

0

Pilkington

Mossley

1

1

Abbey Hey*

Maine Road

2

1

Chadderton*

West Didsbury*

1

2

Trafford

Ashton Town

9

2

Atherton LR

Curzon Ashton

1

2

Wythenshawe Town*

Chadderton

0

1

Pilkington

Abbey Hulton United

1

2

Cheadle Heath Nomad

Daisy Hill

5

3

Maine Road

Alsager Town

2

5

Cheadle Town

Emiley AFC

4

0

AFC Blackpool

Barnton

0

4

Abbey Hey

Lower Breck

6

0

Eccleshall

Cammell Laird 1907

0

0

Sandbach United

St Helens Town

8

3

AFC Darwen

Stone Old Alleynians

2

1

Prestwich Heys

St Martins

0

5

AFC Liverpool

West Didsbury

4

0

Nelson 33

CD Estepona v Juventud de Torremolinos Have you ever wondered what non league football is like in another country? Matt Harrison is a groundhopper who writes on his blog Los Boyos about his football travels in Spain. This week, he visited CD Estepona who are a semi pro Spanish side who play in the Tercera Division.

athletics stadium. Linked to the athletics stadium via a little bridge, you could find the home of CD Estepona: El Estadio Francisco Muñoz Pérez.

From outside, the stadium really isn’t much to look at and, weirdly, the main building, which makes up the most prominent CD Estepona v Juventud de Torremolinos / 22 September ‘19 stand, reminded me of a small school building for some reason. In another slightly unorthodox twist, the entrance to the ground was found by climbing a ramp and entering via the midrift of the stand.

I’d like to say I’d arrived at the ground with no expectations, but it soon dawned on me that I clearly had. Non-league football is wrongly stereotyped at times, yet I still feel some of those stereotypes can ring true too – generally the positive stereotypes: the pace and frantic nature of it; the no-nonsense -ness of it all; and those comedy moments, which I suppose Where would you rather go? El Estadio Francisco Muñoz Pérez to watch semi-pro Spanish football or Disneyland Paris? add to the beautiful chaos of our beautiful game in the nether regions of British football. Ultimately, I realised I had arrived at Actually, I shouldn’t bother asking that, as I know plenty of groundhoppers read this stuff and, although the answer may Estepona just assuming that football in the basement leagues appear obvious to many, I’m fairly sure a number of my friends of Spanish football couldn’t possibly be like our blood and guts would genuinely see the former as the more magical kingdom non-league football back home and that everything would be more tepid and tippy-tappy – on and off the pitch. to the latter. Anyway, in some sort of alternate reality, you could maybe do both, as the coastal town of Estepona was Firstly, the ground itself: it’s cool. Really cool actually. The originally pencilled in as the site for Euro Disney, when the large stand down one side of the pitch is the dominant feature project was announced in the early 90s. with the rest of the ground consisting of two open seating terEstepona’s popularity seems to be increasing, as unlike some of the other towns further north up to the Costa Del Sol, it remains fairly untouched by tourism; of course, this ultimately makes it more appealing to tourists seeking that traditional Spanish feel. Everyone seems to love Estepona it seems.

Since moving over to Marbella, I’ve had countless people telling me to go visit the town; those same people were left rather bemused when I told them that I was going, but with local football being the the main purpose of my visit. However, you can certainly put my name down on the list of ‘People who love Estepona.’ We’ll focus on the football for now though and save a more detailed written exploration of Estepona on these pages for another day.

Initially, I was surprised by how big and shiny the stadium was for a fifth tier club, before realising that what I was actually looking at was the town’s brand spanking new, €6 million 34

races. The ground feels like its built into a sort of half-bowl at the foot of the rising hills giving it an almost ampitheatre-ish quality too. And if you like football ground backdrops, then you cannot fault the powerful image of the Sierra Bermeja standing proudly in the distance.

It was just one of those grounds I immediately clicked with; even more so when I walked up to the small open bar at the top of the stand and found I could enjoy beers for €1 a pop.

Perfection.

I’ve always been a lover of tiki-taka football, as I fell in love with Pep’s Barca team of the late 00s; plus, my own team Swansea City, with its strong Spanish links, spent a large chunk between 2007-2013 playing a similar brand of football and excelling at it. For whatever reason – I’m still not really clear why – I had a feeling that the Spanish lower leagues would be a sort of slower, more ponderous version of tiki-taka, which would lead to slow, clumsy and dull games. How bloody wrong I was! Estepona v Juventud de Torremolinos is easily the most fun I’ve had watching lower league football in months. There was a lot of fun to take in on the pitch and in the stands.

there was definitely a couple of hundred – a crowd that had gradually increased as locals meandered up to El Estadio as the first half action played out. I was equally delighted in the crowd’s attire of choice too. I had expected to see people wearing Barca, Real and Juventus shirts (everyone seems to own a ‘RONALDO 7’ shirt in this part of the word it sees), but no; wonderfully, from the kids to the old timers, the majority of attendees adorned themselves in the red of CD Estepona.

Sadly, for them, they’d be going away sad on this Sunday afternoon.

If you are one of those tourists heading to Estepona, then lucky you; Estepona really is a wondrous place and I will certainly be back to explore some more on a non-footballing trip.

As you’ve probably guessed, id recommend a visit to CD Estepona too. You won’t meet Goofy or Donald Duck, nor will you get to ride Space Mountain, but you will see some fun football in a cool ground with cheap beer. A fantastic new point With a second beer in hand, I headed around to the open side of view on semi-pro Spanish football was established – not of the ground, intrigued by, but also keeping a distance from, that I had really experienced it properly before and thus wasn’t the small, drum-banging, megaphone-blaring gang of Ultras really entitled to one. dubbing themselves ‘Armada Red’. I got the impression that some of them were already well past their second beer before If you enjoyed reading Matt’s adventures in CD Estepona, you the midday kick-off. The crackly PA system was blaring over can read the full article on his blog Los Boyos, please note them as the teams prepared to enter the gladiatorial arena – that the words in this article are not those of Squires Gate and only from Matt’s blog. and it really did feel gladiatorial thanks to the epic, slightly jingoistic anthem booming around the ground. Once this orchestral powerhouse was done, it was time for the more cheery club anthem and for the teams to walk out onto the pitch with the ref grabbing the ball from a ceremonial plinth as he walked out. I was further delighted by the fact that once lined up in the middle of the pitch, the players gave a wave to each side of the ground; a procession I had loved seeing when living and watching football in Slovakia, although I really only loved the wave ritual there, as more often than not the players would be waving to at least one empty stand much to my amusement.

The game boasted a series of one-on-ones being fluffed by both teams, especially the Torremolinos no.9, so it seemed obvious that the first goal would come from a deflected freekick in favour of the away team. But then, finally, after 75 minutes of wasted chances in front of both goals, the second goal eventually came courtesy of a 1 on 1, as Torremolinos ensured they ended up 2-0 winners.

The final five minutes saw some fiery displays on the pitch, as the home team began kicking out in frustration with both benches getting involved with each other too. However, it was the enthusiastic crowd that I took most joy in. I was actually surprised how many people had shown up for the game – 35

36

A LOOK BACK TO 1984/85 NWCFL FIRST DIVISION 13th October 1984

DIVISION ONE 1984/85 TEAM

P

PTS

GD

1

Everton

42

90

+45

2

Liverpool

42

77

+33

3

Tottenham Hotspur

42

77

+27

4

Manchester United

42

76

+30

5

Southampton

42

68

+9

6

Chelsea

42

66

+15

Netherfield

7

Arsenal

42

66

+12

2

St Helens Town

8

Sheffield Wednesday

42

65

+13

1

0

Bootle

9

Nottingham Forest

42

64

+8

Lancaster City

0

1

Leek Town

10 Aston Villa

42

56

0

Penrith

0

1

Accrington Stanley

11 Watford

42

55

+10

Prescot Cables

2

1

Leyland Motors

12 West Bromwich Albion

42

55

-4

13 Luton Town

42

54

-4

14 Newcastle United

42

52

-15

15 Leicester City

42

51

-8

16 West Ham United

42

51

-17

Burscough

2

2

Alfreton Town

Formby

3

2

Chorley

Stalybridge Celtic

5

0

Winsford United

Clay Cross Works

0

0

Cheadle Town

Garforth Miners

2

1

Droylsden

Rossendale United

2

4

Arnold Kingswell

Caernarfon Town

1

1

Fleetwood Town

Congleton Town

2

1

Curzon Ashton

5

Glossop

FA CUP FINAL 1985 Everton

0

1

Manchester United

DID YOU KNOW? 18 August ‘84

Everton win the Charity Shield by beating Liverpool 1-0 at Wembley.

17 Ipswich Town

42

50

-11

1 September ‘84

Newcastle beat Aston Villa 3-0 to go top of the first official league table, with a perfect start.

18 Coventry City

42

50

-17

19 Queens Park Rangers

42

50

-19

20 Norwich City

42

49

-18

21 Sunderland

42

40

-22

22 Stoke City

42

17

-67

18 September ‘84 QPR win their first European game in over 8 years with a 3-0 win against KR Reykjavik.

3 October ‘84

Forest and Southampton are knocked out of Europe but Liverpool, United and Tottenham all progress.

Garth Crooks scores 3 against Lech Poznan.

27 October ‘84

Everton thrash Manchester United 5-0.

5 January ‘85

FA Cup third round shocks as Leyton Orient beat West Brom, and Doncaster beat QPR.

24 February ‘85

Crystal Palace are beaten 5-0 by Wimbledon in the second division.

24 March ‘85

Norwich win the “Milk Cup” against Sunderland.

11 May ‘85

A tragic even for English football, as 56 people die and more than 200 people were injured at Bradfords Valley Parade, when a fire broke out underneath the wooden stand from a discarded cigarette. There is still a minutes silence every year to remember the 35

P

G

P

Jack HARGREAVES Jacob DAVIES Jacob HIGHAM

Tony AGHAYERE Referee

Michael Crusham

Harry CAIN Callum GARDNER

Joseph MULLEN

Sam HARE

Dave ROSSALL

Sam HIND

Josh WESTWOOD Oliver BURGESS

Ben FLETCHER James BOYD Ryan CHARNLEY Ryan DODD John-Jo MORRIS

Assistant Referees

Matthew Howarth Shaun Taylor UP NEXT AT HOME…

Callum KIRLAND Josh POLLARD Jordan SALTHOUSE

Sam STAUNTON-TURNER Mututu CHILUFYA Riccardo EGIDI Josh WOODS

Lee JACKSON Mark JONES

Taylor KENNERLEY Lee KNIGHT Michael KORAL

NORTHWICH VICTORIA

Scott McGOWAN

Tuesday 15th October

Ryan MITCHELL

Dean ING

38

G

Nathan OKOME Other fixtures Runcorn Town v Skelmersdale Utd Winsford Utd v Avro

James ORMROD Jake PARKER Kyle PHIPPS

Matthew RUSSELL Jack TINNING Bobby TURNER Matthew WOOLLEY

39