Squires Gate v Ashton Athletic

V Ashton Athletic 26.12.16 15:00 Hallmark Security League Premier Division Issue 17

SQUIRES GATE FOOTBALL CLUB INSIDE TODAY’S PROGRAMME...

FROM THE DUGOUT

PREDICTION CORNER

Manager Danny Penswick gives his thoughts on today’s game and the upcoming games going into the new year.

This week we have Gate midfielder Joe Noblet with his second time. We also have Ashton Player Matt Farnworth

GIVE IT FIVE

THIS WEEK IN FOOTBALL HISTORY

We have a look at Ashton Athletic’s last five results.

In our regular feature, we take a look back on this week in football history.

HISTORIC PREMIER LEAGUE GAMES

MATCH ACTION

We take a look back on historic Premier League games which includes

Mark Ashmore reports on the games on our 5-4 lose to AFC Liverpool and our 2-0 win against Bootle.

Q&A WITH RICO

Q&A WITH MATT FARNWORTH

In a new regular feature, we interviewed Gate captain and defender Andy Richards, who speaks about his career at Squires Gate and what he has lined up for his future.

A Q&A with Ashton’s Matt Farnworth who tells us about his time at the yellows and what encouraged him to get into football.

CHAIRMAN

GROUNDSMAN

PHOTOGRAPHY

STUART HOPWOOD

BRIAN ADDISON

ALBERT COOPER (HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER)

SECRETARY

MARK ASHMORE

MARK ASHMORE

JOHN MAGUIRE

PETER BRYANT

CONTRIBUTORS

TREASURER

STEVE BELLAMY

ANDY RICHARDS

JOHN STOKES

HOSPITALITY

MATT FARNWORTH

MANAGERS

DENISE GIBSON

DANNY PENSWICK

EMMA HOPWOOD

BRIAN PENSWICK (ASSISTANT MANAGER)

CHRISTINE WALSH

MEDIA

PROGRAMME EDITORS

MARK ASHMORE (HEAD OF MEDIA)

JAY HAYDEN

ALBERT COOPER

DAN HAYDEN

FROM THE DUGOUT

DANIEL PENSWICK “I HOPE YOU ALL HAD A FANTASTIC CHRISTMAS, TODAY WE WELCOME ASHTON ATHLETIC…” Good afternoon everyone,

First of all I hope you all had a fantastic Christmas and today we welcome Ashton Athletic. Since AFC Blackpools relegation last Season Ashton has now become the nearest club at our level although I'm not quite sure the same rivalry prevails. They’re a very good club with some great people in charge and are making constant progressions.

Last time we faced them we escaped relegation in what was a vital and well deserved victory.

Last Saturday's 3 points against in form Bootle will fill the team with confidence. We had a few late drop out and arrived with a bare 11 including no goalkeeper. To their credit the lads stood up, came together and gave an outstanding performance and result. Dave Rossall and Seydou Bamba were particularly impressive.

It's the first time we'll line up at home without Ric Seear and Ryan Riley and whilst we'll undoubtedly miss their quality it's exciting to see us play a different way. As this is our last home game of 2016 I'd like to wish all our supporters a happy and healthy 2017.

It's certainly been an exciting 12 months, from starting the year as relegation favourites and staying up on the last game of the season. To this season taking points of title contenders and currently sitting 13 points about the drop zone. Let's hope it keeps getting better in 2017.

I hope we will be able to hit the ground running going into the new year, as we have some fixtures coming thick and fast and we will need to pick up as many points as possible. We have a very good squad here who have shown that they are very capable of a top half finish so that is the minimum that I will be expecting by the end of the campaign. We can’t get too ahead of ourselves though, we need to keep our feet on the ground and we need to make sure we get the balance right.

Up the Gate,

Danny

GATE

4

R.SEEAR 7,39,90 DAWSON 23

AFC LIVERPOOL

5

LEAMEY 13,81 CHAMPION 32 BELGER 45,71 SATURDAY, DECEMBER, 10

Gate got off to the perfect start after soaking up some pressure from the visitors, when they were awarded a penalty 8 minutes into the game. Striker Ric Seear converting with a cheeky chip over the keeper after he was fouled in the box. t was clear what sort of game this was going to be when Gate got a let off 2 minutes later, a lovely drop of the shoulder before the forward fired narrowly wide for the visitors.

THE ROYAL BRISTISH STADIUM ATTENDANCE: 72

But just two minutes later the visitors would get their reward. The winger allowed too much time and space to twist and turn before firing low in off the post past Woods.

GATE: WOODS, RICHARDS (NOBLET 67), CARROLL (ROSSALL 82), HIGHAM, ALEXANDER, HALL,PENWSICK,GIBSON, RILEY, R. SEEAR,DAWSON

But as quickly as AFC scored Gate replied in what was an end to end game. Striker Brett Dawson baring down on goal to fire low to find a very tight space between the keeper and the post.

Back came AFC again five minutes later. The visitors front three causing Gate problems all game.

This time it was the turn of the striker Champion who much like the first goal, fired hard and low into the corner to beat Woods by inches.

AFC LIVERPOOL: MENDES,BRISLEN,ESSERY,SWATTON,WHI TE,CHRISTOU,BELGER,CHAMPION,SMITH, LEAMEY

But back again came Gate in this end to end game which really was living up to that saying. A lovely ball over the top finding the run of Ric Seear. Seear bought the ball down before going past a defender who went down trying to tackle Seear before he slotted the ball through the keepers legs. Defender Michael White inches away from clearing the ball off the line.

Gate couldn't hold onto their lead until half time with AFC striking again. Josh Woods not coming for the ball allowed the striker to pick it up in the box and fire past the keeper right on half time.

It's fair to say that the second half saw both sides tighten up at the back compared to the first.

Unfortunately it was AFC who would crest the better chances and deservedly open the scoring on 70 minutes to take the lead. Winger Belger grabbing his second of the game with an instinctive finish last Woods.

AFC would then grab a second to extend their lead five minutes later and what a goal it was. AFC saving the best till last. Winger Leamey skipping past four Gate players before passing into the bottom corner past Woods.

Gate would grab a goal back in added time after AFC looked to see out the result. Lovely ball over the top from Joe Noblet found the run of Ric Seear, the striker spotting past the keeper to complete his hatrick, all be it too late for Gate to get another.

The loss leaves Gate still in 15th though having played more games than other around them.

BOOTLE

0

GATE

2

B.SEEAR 9, BAMBA 65 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17 DETLA TAXI STADIUM ATTENDANCE: 149

Gate came into the game down to bare bones following injuries, unavailability and the transfers of top goal scorer Ric Seear and Ryan Riley to Colne and Bamber Bridge.

Midfielder Mike Hall started in goal for Gate and played possibly his best game for the club. He had to be alert after 2 minutes to tip over a deep corner from the homeside after a bright start by Gate.

BOOTLE:

Striker Brett Dawson started the game up top on his own in a demanding role and could JONES, HUY, ORDISH, MURPHY, POWELL, and probably should have opened the scoring for Gate on 6 minutes. He was sent WOOLCOTT, HOWELL, LOUGHLIN, through one on one but saw his effort denied by the legs of keeper Jones.

O’CONNOR, HAMILTON, COX GATE: HALL, CARROLL, BAMBA, PENSWICK, ROSSALL, ALEXANDER, RICHARDS, B.SEEAR, DAWSON, NOBLET, HIGHAM

Three minutes later though Dawson would make up for his miss. He sent his full back the wrong way before passing across goal to the back post. Running in was midfielder Ben Seear, playing in an unfamiliar centre midfield role, to fire past Jones.

Gate then had chances through Dawson again who's thunderous strike from distance was tipped over and Danny Penswick who's long range effort went wide of the post.

Bootle started to mount pressure of their own looking for an equaliser and went close on 20 minutes. First Gate had to defend three corners in a row with the final corner poked wide at the front post. Then Mike Hall pulled off a superb save to tip over a shot after some nice play from Bootle.

Gate could have made it 2-0 on 34 minutes but had an effort cleared off the line. Joe Noblet doing well to beat his man before squaring to the back post to find Richards but his scuffed shot in was cleared off the line. Gate would hold onto their lead until half time.

The second half would see Gate double their lead after some good defending from Bootle pressure. It was Defender Seydou Bamba in the right place at the right time to fire in after the corner fell to him in the middle of the goal.

Gate would then go on to defend heroically after Bootle went more direct in the second half.

Gate had two great chances in the last 10 minutes. First Brett Dawson was wrongly flagged offside from a defenders header with a clear path through on goal. Then Jake Higham beat the offside trap to square to Dawson but his shot was well saved by the keeper.

Gate held on to record their first win of the month and become the first team to beat Bootle at home this season. It's also the first team Gate have done the league double over.

Q&A We caught up with Squires Gate Captain, Legend, Leader and Defender Andy Richards where we asked about his time at Squires Gate and about football in general.

What encouraged you to start playing football?

Which players inspired you as a kid?

Do you remember your first ever game and goal for Gate?

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

Some would say I’m that old I invented football. My dad was and still is one of the only reasons I still play. For him to still be watching me at 34 home and away every week, says everything about him.

Magsy would definitely know, but i would say 2006 vs Barnoldswick, to win 3-1. I closed down the keeper, who sliced the ball into my path for a tap in, my only tap in might i add.

What was the first ever game you went to as a kid?

Any keeper, doesn't matter who we can’t play with a 40 year old CM again, John Stones - PCs bones need a rest,

What is your first ever memory of playing football?

Do you remember the first game you played in? Or The world cup in "66. No, i believe my Dad tried to the first goal you ever scored? get me to be a Blackburn fan but I wasn't keen, so against Aston Villa, at Anfield around 1994.

Bamber Bridge Leisure Centre. I was about 7 years old, I claimed a goal that went through the side Who would you say has been the best opposition netting to win a cup. to come to Gate this season, and who has been the toughest to play against within your time here?

If you weren’t a defender, which other position would you love to play in? Have you ever played in Our home form, especially against the top sides has other positions during your time? been really good, but definitely Atherton Collieries.

They’re a good outfit and they don't ever give you a As you found out recently when we beat 2nd in the moments rest. There has been lots of ups and league with 11 men, our CM in nets and I played downs, but games against AFC Blackpool were alnumber 7. After scoring 1.5 goals from that position ways tough and it is one I’ll really miss this boxing this season, i would say there or false 9. day. For the fans and players, its something to look What is your favourite celebration when you score forward to. a goal? What is the best celebration you’ve ever Favourite ground that you have played at? seen?

Runcorn Town, their fans love me Ask Albert, he has the picture for this one (meat and 2 veg). Gerrard, Kissing the camera If you could change one rule in the game, what would it be and why?

If you could pick one team for Squires Gate to come up against in a friendly, which team would Kick ins instead of throw ins. would be more exyou want to go up against? citing 2011/2012 Squires Gate team AKA "The Soul Train" There has been goals galore at Squires Gate this season, what is the mentality behind the team compared to last season?

To be honest, although there have been 3-3 or 5-4 games, the football we have played at times has been exceptional.

I think the game recently at Bootle showed the character of the lads and with so many young lads in the team, this can only be a good thing and an area for us to improve. With an average age at the back of 104, its always going to be difficult.

Coutiniho - the guys a genius and would suit our style What is the last thing you do before you walk out onto the pitch prior to kick off?

Don't really have any rituals but, probably line up my trainers, shoe laces, clothes all in a certain order, drink a can of red bull, take the ring pull of and put it next to my shoes, eat a twirl, go the Toilet literally seconds before kick off. just the normal routine things players do What is your favourite Boxing Day game off all time? i think it was 2014. 1-0 down vs AFC Blackpool we pulled it back to 2-1 with a Ben Fishwick winner As captain what is the last thing you do to gear up the team before the game?

As captain, legend, leader, im a fan of the cuddle, look at Jurgen, you cant beat a good hug, it says a lot about a man After a long career at Squires Gate, how many more seasons do you think you can see out?

As i am getting no younger and my partner and i If you were to play in a 5 a side team with any 4 have recently had our 2nd baby (Beau) i feel my players of your choice ,past or present, who would season are becoming limited and we could be lookyou pick and why? ing at the last one. i need to train my 18mth Old Stan (keeper when I was 16, great character), Steson, Bailey, into the modern professional i am and ven Gerrard (Idol), My Dad (see if hes as good as he its going to take up all my time, as i have high standsays he was), Paul Murray (best mate), Gazza.... ards.....

What was the first shirt you ever owned? Did you have a name on the back of your shirts?

Patrick Berger 1996 Red Liverpool kit with huge collar

Prediction for the game?

3-0. Confidence is high and against a team going for the league, lets show them the league table does lie.

SATURDAY 10TH DECEMBER 2016 ASHTON ATHLETIC 1 IRLAM 3 TUESDAY 6TH DECEMBER 2016 ASHTON ATHLETIC 3 ATHERTON LR 0 FRIDAY 25TH NOVEMBER 2016 ASHTON ATHLETIC 2 RUNCORN TOWN 0 TUESDAY 8TH NOVEMBER 2016 ASHTON ATHLETIC 1 CHARNOCK RICHARD 0 TUESDAY 1ST NOVEMBER 2016 ASHTON ATHLETIC 0 BOOTLE 6

TUESDAY 6TH DECEMBER 2016

SATURDAY 10TH DECEMBER 2016

ASHTON ATHLETIC 3

ASHTON ATHLETIC 1

ATHERTON LR 0

IRLAM 3

FRIDAY 25TH NOVEMBER 2016

TUESDAY 1ST NOVEMBER 2016

ASHTON ATHLETIC 2

ASHTON ATHLETIC 0

RUNCORN TOWN 0

BOOTLE 6

TUESDAY 8TH NOVEMBER 2016

SATURDAY 15TH OCTOBER 2016

ASHTON ATHLETIC 1

RUNCORN TOWN 2

CHARNOCK RICHARD 0

ASHTON ATHLETIC 0

SATURDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 2016

TUESDAY 11TH OCTOBER 2016

WEST DIDSBURY 2

ASHTON ATHLETIC 2

ASHTON ATHLETIC 5

WEST DIDSBURY 3

SATURDAY 29TH OCTOBER 2016

TUESDAY 4TH OCTOBER 2016

RUNCORN LINNETS 2

ASHTON ATHLETIC 0

ASHTON ATHLETIC 3

ATHERTON COLLS 4

SATURDAY 17TH DECEMBER 2016 BARNOLDSWICK TOWN 0 ASHTON ATHLETIC 0

SATURDAY 7TH MAY 2016 ASHTON ATHLETIC 0 SQUIRES GATE 2

SATURDAY 3RD DECEMBER 2016

SATURDAY 12TH SEPETMBER 2015

NELSON 2

SQUIRES GATE 0

ASHTON ATHLETIC 2

ASHTON ATHLETIC 0

SATURDAY 19TH NOVEMBER 2016

TUESDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2014

WINSFORD UNITED 2

ASHTON ATHLETIC 4

ASHTON ATHLETIC 2

SQUIRES GATE 0

SATURDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 2016

TUESDAY 26TH AUGUST 2014

WEST DIDSBURY 2

SQUIRES GATE 1

ASHTON ATHLETIC 5

ASHTON ATHLETIC 2

SATURDAY 29TH OCTOBER 2016

SATURDAY 26TH APRIL 2014

RUNCORN LINNETS 2

ASHTON ATHLETIC 1

ASHTON ATHLETIC 3

SQUIRES GATE 2

YELLOWS FACT FILE

SHOT STOPPER

Formed: 1968

Martin Pearson

Stadium: Brocstedes Park

Position: Goalkeeper 2016/17 APPS:34

Capacity:

The keeper has and probably should be playing at a higher level. Pearson commands his area and is one of the management trio's best signings in my opinion.

Manager: Jay Foulds, Ben Kay, Dougie Pitts

Gate will have to find something special to get pass Martin today but I sure he will be busy with gate strike force this season.

Website: www.ashtonathleticfc.co.uk

Chairman: James Whyte Record attendance: 202

Twitter: @ashtonathletic 2015/16 position: 7th

ASHT0N HISTORY

MIDDLE OF THE PARK Daniel Regan Position: Midfielder 2016/17 APPS & GOALS:29/4

The little midfielder is best described as being a 'ratter' he does the unfashionable work well and deserves credit for it. He also has the ability to pop up with the odd goal now and again.

Daniel will a bit off a handful for gate defence today and he will be looking to cause a bit off trouble down the wingers today and be hoping to get a few crossing into the box.

THE FINISHER Adam Gilchrist Position: Forward 2016/17 APPS & GOALS: 22/14

The forward/winger has been in fine form for Ashton finding the net in his last couple of games. Gilchrist is Ashton's second top goal scorer following Kusaloka's departure.

The club developed Brocstedes Park, was admitted to the Lancashire Combination, before they become a founder member of the North West Counties League when the Combination merged with the Cheshire league in 1982. Unfortunately financial constraints prevented the required ground improvements to be completed, and the club was relegated into the Manchester league Division One in 1986.

The 2008/2009 season also sees a further progression of the club, having been promoted to the Premier Division of the North West Counties League. They will again take to the national stage, having been accepted in the FA Cup competition after last season`s debut in the FA Vase which proved very lucrative for the club, progressing through 3 stages and beating 2 teams from higher leagues in the process. Last season also saw cup success for the club retaining the Atherton Charity Cup at the end of the season A new vision for the club is under discussion to further develop the club and these will include plans for improvements to the access road, new junior changing rooms, and additional playing fields for the junior section and a proposed girls/ladies section.

HONOURS Ashton Charity Cup Winners 2006/2007 and 2007/2008

Adam will be a handful for gate and will be looking to take his good fourm into todays game and will be looking to net one or two since leader scoring Kusaloka's has left the

NWCFL Challenge Cup 2013/2014

INTRODUCING

ASHTON ATHLETIC This afternoon we welcome Ashton Athletic to The Royal British Legion Stadium. This is a fixture that has a lot of history over the past couple of seasons, where Gate have gone to Ashton on the last day needing a win to secure safety on both occasions. Back in April 2014, Gate pulled of a fantastic 2-0 win to survive with Jack Sowerby scoring a superb free kick and ensuring Gate came away with all 3 points. Last season, it was the same scenario with Penswicks’ men needing a draw at least to guarantee safety. In a game that could have been very different, the referee decided that Joe Noblet’s 35 yard strike was not a goal despite it hitting the back of the net. Mark Ashmore recorded this and the video was later uploaded to multiple social media websites and even made the tabloids labelled as the “ghost goal”. The game however was won by Gate which sent rivals AFC Blackpool down with Alsager Town.

Ashton Athletic have been on form lately, losing only 1 game in their last 6 and sit in the top half of the form table so they will be looking to continue this on going into today’s game. They finished last season In 8th place but currently sit 13th, 2 places above Gate. The man to watch is Adam Gilchrist who has netted 14 goals in 22 appearances already this season.

THE BOSS: JAY FOULDS .Foulds, previously manager at Wigan Robin Park took the managers job alongside Ben Kay and Dougie Pitts in 2012 and the trio have continued to impress the board at Ashton.

When Foulds joined back in 2012 he stated that he had an eye on the managers job for a while and as soon as he was offered the job, he was straight on the phone to Dougie and Ben to appoint them as part of his management team.

The trio have led Ashton to successive top half finishes and they are on track for a consecutive top half finish. They will be aiming to finish the season high again and have played some decent football.

LAST TIME OUT

ASHTON ATHLEITC 2 RUNCORN TOWN 0 FRIDAY 25TH NOVEMBER 2016/MARCON CUP ROUND 3/BROCSTEDES PARK/ATTENDANCE 69

The game opened with a mid field dual with both sides denying each other time on the ball or possession of it.

When Runcorn were awarded a penalty after 20 minutes following a trip on Kevin Exell, Craig Cairns had his spot kick saved by Ashton keeper Martin Pearson.

Runcorn created a host of chances and it was Pearson alone who kept his side in the game with a series of superb saves. When Pearson was eventually beaten Howard cleared off the goal line from Kevin Exell.

Forbes, Maguire, Exell and Holt all went close but Ashton defended well to keep Runcorn out.

In 1st half added on time Ashton threatened and struck the crossbar twice to signal their intentions.

HALF TIME: ASHTON ATHLETIC 0 – 0 RUNCORN TOWN

01 MARTIAN PEARSON 02 JOE SARGENT

01 LOUIE MACKIN

03 ADAM HOWRAD

02 MATTY WOODWARD

04 SAMUEL BALIEY

03 JOE HEATH

05 STEPHEN KELLY

04 JOSH MAGUIRE

06 MATTEW FARNWORTH

05 CRAIG JONES

07 DANIEL SMITH

06 CARL RODGERS

08 PAU; WASTON

07 JOE HOLT

09 ISAAC KUSALOKA

08 PAUL MCMANUS

10 DANIEL REGAN

09 DAVE FORBES

11 MARCUS CUSANI

10 CRAIG CARINS 11 KEVIN EXELL

12 JOE BROWNHILL 14 CHRISOPHER WEBSTER

12 DANNY JARRETT

15 LUKE HOLDEN

14 OIL NUGENT

The 2nd half began with Ashton putting the Runcorn defence under constant pressure and stand in central defenders Rodgers and Heath were excellent at the heart of their defence.

Smith struck the outside of the post with a curling free kick.

Runcorn responded and McManus hit a powerful shot that Pearson saved at the second attempt. Cairns played Holt in but his shot flew just wide of the far upright.

Isaac Kusaloka put Ashton ahead in the 83rd minute when he broke through the Runcorn defence and slotted past the advancing Mackin.

Runcorn went for an equaliser but were caught out with 2 minutes left when a clearance fell to Isaac Kusaloka who secured victory for his team with a well taken strike.

Q&A We interviewed Ashton Athletic’s Matt Farnworth. He talks about how he got into playing football, his time at Ashton Athletic, and about football in general.

What encouraged you to start playing football? Which If you could pick one team for Ashton to come up players inspired you as a kid? against in a friendly, which team would you want to go up against?

My dad was my first influence as a kid, he played himself and was a decent player but he never really pushed I'd say Real Madrid, if I'm going to chase shadows for me into it, football was just something I loved from the 90 minutes I'd rather it be chasing Ronaldo and Bale! start. My older brother was a really good player growWhat is the mentality in the dressing room before the ing up so being in his shadow helped me push myself game? Do you prepare for big games or derbies differand want to keep playing/improving. Player-wise I had ently compared to standard league games? some pretty random idols, Alan Smith was my favourite player for years but Zidane has to be my favourite, the We're always pretty relaxed in the dressing room and best I've ever seen, better than Ronaldo & Messi for try to keep preparation the same each week, if it's a big me. game or derby, that in itself does enough to get you going and motivated. Each player has their own What is your first ever memory of playing football? little things they do or need before a game but we stay Do you remember the first game you played in? Or relaxed and get focused on our individual jobs for that the first goal you ever scored? game.

I think my first game was when I was 4/5 so I can't say I Do you remember your first ever game for Ashton? really remember that, the first goal I can properly reWhat season did you join? member scoring was playing for Manchester United's Academy when I was about 9/10, it was against Bury I only joined Ashton at the start of this season so my FC. I was good back then, all went down hill after that! first game was a Pre-season Friendly against Golbourne. First proper game would've been AFC If you weren’t a midfielder, which other position Blackpool in the FA Cup I think! would you love to play in? Have you ever played in What was the first ever game you went to as a kid? other positions during your time?

I can't remember my first ever game but it would've Like pretty much everyone else I used to be a striker been a Bolton Wanderers game with my old man! but I used to hate waiting around for the ball so I started playing centre midfield when I was about 14/15 and Who would be your dream partner? Past or present? stayed there since. I like to think I can play most posiI'll go with Pirlo, I'll do all his running and then just tions fairly competently now though, in fact, I think I've watch him pull strings. played in every single position for Ashton this season besides left back and in goal!

Who would you say has been the best opposition to What is your favourite celebration when you score a goal? What is the best celebration you’ve ever seen?

I wouldn't know, you have to score to be able to celebrate and I don't do that much any more! I played in the US for a few years and there was a lot of Scandinavian lads that would get pretty inventive with celebrations - they used to pull out the 'dead fish' quite a lot.

come to Ashton this season, and who has been the toughest to play against within your time here?

I'd have to give that to Halifax Town, we played them in the FA Cup and ultimately they came out well on top. We competed but they were just fitter and stronger than us all over the pitch - shows you the difference training can make. In the league I was impressed with Bootle, they come with a solid game plan and stick to it really well, nothing overly complicated but they are disciplined and punish teams if they make mistakes.

nothing overly complicated but they are disciplined and punish teams if they make mistakes.

Favourite ground that you have played at?

Being a Bolton fan I'll go with the Macron Stadium though I still know it as the Reebok - I've played on there a couple of times and hopefully we'll get back there this season in the Lancashire Cup! If you could change one rule in the game, what would it be and why?

I'd introduce a winter break! Even the best non-league pitches can turn awful with the weather we get here and then we have May-August with no games - makes no sense to me.

If you were to play in a 5 a side team with any 4 players of your choice, past or present, who would you pick and why?

That's a tough one. I stick Martin Pearson in goal and I'd have Ben Kay in as well as he can read the game better than anyone I've played with, then I'll throw in a couple of the lads I grew up playing with, Kingsley Williams and Jack Burke - best 5 aside players I've seen!

What was the first shirt you ever owned? Did you have a name on the back of your shirts?

Ah I can't remember that, probably a Bolton Wanderers shirt with McGinlay on the back!

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

Michael Carrick - the guys a master, just pulls strings all day long.

Sergio Aguero - the best player in the PL right now.

Toby Alderweireld - every team needs a rock at the back and he's probably the best around at the moment!

What is the last thing you do before you walk out onto the pitch prior to kick off?

Take as much water on board as I can and get focused on the game.

Prediction for the game?

We're on a decent run over the last 10 games or so - so I'm confident we can come in and get a good result. I'll say 2-1 Ashton

OPPOSITION

KO

H/A

SCORE

ATT

POS

PTS

COMP

LINEUP

FLETCHER, RICO, CARROLL, PENSWICK, SEEAR, HALL, NOBLET, MCKENDRICK, RILEY, SEEAR, DAWSON

AUGUST SAT 6TH AUG

MALTBY MAIN

15.00

A

0-1

68

-

-

FA CUP (EPR)

SAT 13TH AUG

1874 NORTHWICH

15.00

H

4-1

185

4TH

3

NWCFL

FLETCHER, RICO, CARROLL. PENSWICK, SEEAR, HALL, STYATE, NOBLET, R.SEEAR, TANSER, GIBSON

MON 15TH AUG

ATHERTON COLLEIRIES

19.45

A

1-1

182

1ST

4

NWCFL

FLETCHER, RICO, HIGHAM. PENSWICK, CARROLL, HALL, STAYTE, THORNBER, RILEY. DAWSON, GIBSON

SAT 20TH AUG

WEST DIDSBURY

15.00

A

2-3

105

-

-

FA CUP (PR)

FLETCHER, RICO, HIGHAM, PENSWICK, CARROLL, HALL, MCKENDRICK, NOBLET, THORNBER, DAWSON, R.SEEAR

TUE 23RD AUG

BOOTLE

19.45

H

4-3

65

4TH

7

NWCFL

FLETCHER, RICO. HIGHAM, PENSWICK, CARROLL, NOBLET, MCKENDRICK, GIBSON, B.SEEAR, R.SEEAR, DAWSON

SAT 27TH AUG

CONGLETON TOWN

15.00

A

3-2

90

10TH

7

NWCFL

SPEIGHT, RICO. HIGHAM, PENSWICK, CARROLL, NOBLET, MCKENDRICK, STATYE, GIBSON, TANSER, R.SEEAR

TUE 30TH AUG

AFC DARWEN

19.45

H

2-3

105

10TH

7

NWCFL

FLETCHER, RICO. HIGHAM, PENSWICK, CARROLL, HALL, GIBSON, NOBLET, TANSER. DAWSON, R.SEEAR

SAT 3RD SEP

HANSWORTH PARRMORE

15.00

H

2-5

105

-

-

FA CUP (1QR)

FLETCHER, RICO, HIGHAM, PENSWICK, CARROLL, HALL, THORNBER, MCKENDRICK, R. SEEAR, TANSER, B.SEEAR

TUE 6TH SEP

NELSON

19.45

H

4-3

98

13TH

10

NWCFL

FLETCHER, RICO, B.SEEAR, HALL, PENSWICK, CARROLL, MCKENDRICK, THORNBER, R.SEEAR. BUCHAN, DAWSON

SAT 10TH SEP

ALSAGER TOWN

15.00

A

2-1

44

-

-

FA VASE QR1

FLETCHER, RICO, B.SEEAR, CARROLL, PENSWICK, GIBSON, HALL, MCKENDRICK, HIGHAM, RILEY, TANSER

TUE 13TH SEP

PADIHAM

19.45

H

1-4

100

12TH

10

NWCFL

FLETCHER, STAYTE, B.SEEAR, PENSWICK, CARROLL, HALL, MCKENDRICK, THORNBER, BUCHAN, RILEY, GIBSON

SAT 17TH SEP

CAMMELL LAIRD 1907

15.00

A

1-3

54

10TH

13

NWCFL

FLETCHER. STAYTE, B.SEEAR, CARROLL, BAMBA, PENSWICK, NOBLET, TANSER, RILEY, DAWSON, BUCHAN

TUE 20TH SEP

BARNOLDSWICK TOWN

19.45

H

2-3

98

12TH

13

NWCFL

SPEIGHT, RICO, HIGHAM, CARROLL, PENSWICK, RILEY, KAY, STAYTE, BUCHAN, R.SEEAR, GIBSON

SAT 24TH SEP

MAINE ROAD

15:00

A

6-1

56

14TH

13

NWCFL

WOODS, RICO, B.SEEAR, BAMBA, CARROL, PENSWICK, RIELY, NOBLET, BUCHAN, R.SEEAR, DAWSON

SAT 1ST OCT

NEW MILLS

15.00

H

0-1

50

-

-

MACRON CUP R1

FLETCHER, RICO, HIGHAM, PENSWICK, BAMBA, HALL, THORNBER, B.SEEAR, STATYE, NOBLET, R.SEEAR

TUES 4TH OCT

WEST DIDSBURY

19.45

A

2-3

90

11TH

16

NWCFL

FLETCHER, RICO, BAMBA, PENSWICK, ALEXANDER, HALL, THORNBER, GIBSON, DAWSON, R.SEEAR, TANSER

SAT 8TH OCT

HANLEY TOWN

15.00

A

4-2

75

14TH

16

NWCFL

B.SEEAR, RICO. BAMBA, CARROLL, ALEXANDER, HALL, THORNBER, NOBLET, TANSER, DAWSON, R.SEEAR

TUES 11TH OCT

BARNOLDSWICK TOWN

19.45

A

2-4

65

11TH

19

NWCFL

FLETCHER, RICO, BAMBA, CARROLL, ALEXANDER, HALL, THORNBER, B.SEEAR, RILEY, DAWSON, R.SEEAR

SAT 15TH OCT

BARNTON

15.00

H

0-2

60

12TH

19

NWCFL

FLETCHER, RICO, BAMBA, CARROLL, ALEXANDER, HALL, THORNBER, B.SEEAR, RILEY, DAWSON, R.SEEAR

WED 19TH OCT

PADIHAM

19.45

A

1-0

129

13TH

19

NWCFL

FLETCHER, STATYE, BAMBA, CARROLL, ALEXNADER, HALL, B.SEEAR, THORNBER, DAWSON, R.SEEAR, NOBLET

SAT 22ND OCT

NELSON

15.00

A

0-0

45

16TH

20

NWCFL

FLETCHER, STATYE, BAMBA, CARROLL, ALEXANDER, HALL, B.SEEAR, THORNBER, DAWSON, BUCHAN, NOBLET

SAT 29TH OCT

IRLAM

15.00

H

1-1

56

16TH

21

NWCFL

FLETCHER, STATYE, HIGHAM, CARROLL, ALEXANDER, HALL, RICAHRDS, RILEY, R.SEEAR, BUCHAN, GIBSON

TUES 1ST NOV

ATHERTON COLLIERIES

19;45

H

3-4

130

16TH

21

NWCFL

FLETCHER, CARROLL, ROSSALL, HIGHAM, ALEXANDER, HALL, GIBSON, RICHARDS, RILEY, BUCHAN, DAWSON

SAT 5TH NOV

RUNCORN TOWN

15:00

H

1-6

125

16TH

21

NWCFL

FLETCHER, STATYE, ALEXANDER, ROSSALL, HIGHAM, HALL, GIBSON, B.SEEAR, RILEY, TANSER, DAWSON

TUE 8TH NOV

CHORLEY

19:45

H

1-2

98

-

-

LCC R2

FLETCHER, STATYE, ALEXANDER, ROSSALL, B,SEEAR, PENSWICK, HALL, GIBSON, NOBLET, RILEY, DAWSON

SAT 12TH NOV

HANLEY TOWN

15;00

H

4-4

85

16TH

22

NWCFL

FLETCHER, STATYE, BAMBA, ROSSALL, HIGHAM, PENSWICK, GIBSON, NOBLET, RICHARDS, RILEY, R.SEEAR

SAT 19TH NOV

RUNCORN LINNETS

15;00

A

4-3

290

16TH

22

NWCFL

FLETHCER, RICHARDS, HIGHAM, ALEXANDER, CARROLL, HALL, B.SEEAR, NOBLET, GIBSON, RILEY, R,SEEAR

SAT 26TH NOV

NEW MILLS

15:00

H

2-0

73

14TH

25

NWCFL

WOOOS, RICHARDS, HIGHAM, CARROLL, ALEXANDER, HALL, NOBLET, GIBSON, B,SEEAR, R,SEEAR, RILEY

SAT 3RD DEC

IRLAM

15:00

A

3-1

63

15TH

25

NWCFL

WOODS, RICHARDS, HIGHAM, HALL, CARROLL. ALEXANDER, NOBLET, GIBSON. R,SEEAR, RILEY, B.SEEAR

SAT 10TH DEC

AFC LIVERPOOL

15:00

H

5-4

72

15TH

25

NWCFL

WOODS, RICO, HIGHAM, CARROLL, ALEXANDER, PENSWICK, HALL, GIBSON, R.SEEAR, RILEY, DAWSON

SAT 17TH DEC

BOOTLE

15:00

A

2-0

109

15TH

28

NWCFL

HALL, CARROLL, BAMBA, ALEXANDER, ROSSALL, PENSWICK, B.SEEAR, DAWSON, NOBLET, RICO, HIGHAM

MON 26TH DEC

ASHTON ATHLETIC

15:OO

H

NWCFL

SAT 31ST DEC

RUNCORN TOWN

1:00

A

NWCFL

SAT 7TH JAN

CAMMELL LAIRD

15:00

H

NWCFL

SAT 14TH JAN

AFC DARWEN

15:00

A

NWCFL

SAT 21ST JAN

MAINE ROAD

15:00

H

NWCFL

SAT 28 JAN

WINSFORD UNITED

15:00

H

NWCFL

SAT 4TH FEB

ABBEY HEY

15:00

H

NWCFL

SAT 11TH FEB

1874 NORTHWICH

15:00

A

NWCFL

SAT 18TH FEB

BARNTON

15:00

A

NWCFL

SAT 4TH MAR

AFC LIVERPOOL

15:00

A

NWCFL

SAT 18TH MAR

WEST DIDSBURY

15:00

H

NWCFL

SAT 25TH MAR

WINSFORD UNITED

15;00

A

NWCFL

SAT 1ST APR

ABBEY HEY

15:00

A

NWCFL

SAT 8TH APR

CONGLETON TOWN

15:00

H

NWCFL

SUN 16TH APR

ASHTON ATHLETIC

11;30

A

NWCFL

SAT 22TH APR

RUNCORN LINNETS

15:00

H

NWCFL

SAT 29TH APR

NEW MILLS

15:00

A

NWCFL

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECMEBER

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

NORTH WEST COUNTIES PREMIER DIVISION NORTH WEST COUNTIES FIXTURES

POS

CLUB

P

W

D

L

F

A

GD

PTS

1

RUNCORN TOWN

23

18

0

5

70

27

43

54

(3pm unless stated))

2

RUNCORN LINNETS

24

15

5

4

58

27

31

50

GAMEWEEK 36 RESULTS

3

BOOTLE

23

16

1

6

72

33

39

49

4

ATHERTON COLLS

22

15

4

3

61

25

36

49

5

1874 NORTHWICH

22

15

4

3

45

24

21

49

6

PADIHAM

22

13

2

7

51

35

16

41

7

AFC LIVERPOOL

24

12

5

7

50

40

10

38

8

WEST DIDSBURY

23

11

3

9

59

48

11

36

9

HANLEY TOWN

26

10

6

10

54

48

6

36

Radcliffe Boro 1 West Didsbury 1 (Tues 19:45)

10

IRLAM

21

9

7

5

32

34

-2

34

Derbyshire Senior Cup Round 3

11

ABBEY HEY

23

10

2

11

41

42

-1

32

12

MAINE ROAD

21

9

4

8

44

37

7

31

13

ASHTON ATHLETIC

22

8

5

9

50

44

6

29

Abbey Hey 2 Barnoldswick Town 0

14

CONGLETON TOWN

23

8

5

10

46

50

-4

29

AFC Darwen 1 Bootle 7

15

SQUIRES GATE

25

8

4

13

54

66

-12

28

16

BARNOLDSWICK TOWN

21

7

4

10

35

34

1

25

Barnton 3 Nelson 3

17

BARNTON

6

7

3

16

31

71

-40

24

Congleton Town 1 Cammell Laird 0

18

WINSFORD UNITED

20

6

4

10

33

47

-14

22

19

AFC DARWEN

24

5

7

12

25

62

-37

22

Squires Gate 4 AFC Liverpool 5

20

NEW MILLS

24

3

6

15

33

57

-24

15

West Didsbury 4 Winsford United 2

21

NELSON

23

2

7

14

28

50

-22

12

22

CAMMELL LAIRD 1907

26

0

6

20

20

91

-71

6

The Macron Cup Round 3 Barnoldswick Town 1 Abbey Hey 1 (Tue 19:45) Bootle 5 St Helens Town 1 (Tues 19:45) Premier Division Nelson 1 AFC Darwen 2 (Tues 19:45) Lancashire Challenge Trophy QF Daisy Hill Chorley (Mon 19:45) Ashton Athletic 3 Atherton LR 0 (Tues 19:45)

New Mills 2 South Normanton Athletic

GAMEWEEK 37 RESULTS 1874 Northwich 3 Runcorn Town 2

Ashton Athletic 1 Irlam 3 Atherton Colls 3 Hanley Town 0

Padiham 4 Maine Road 1 Runcorn Linnets 4 New Mills 0

GAMEWEEK 38 RESULTS AFC Liverpool 0 1874 Northwich 1 Barnoldswick Town 0 Ashton Athletic 0 Bootle 0 Squires Gate 2 Cammell Laird 1907 2 Atherton Colls 6 Hanley Town 1 West Didsbury 2

FORM TABLE

Maine Road 1 Barnton 0

P

W

D

L

PTS

FORM

Nelson 1 Runcorn Linnets 2 New Mills 0 AFC Darwen 1

1

ATHERON COLLS

6

5

0

1

15

WWWLWW

2

AFC LIVERPOOL

6

5

0

1

15

LWWWWW

3

RUNCORN LINNETS

6

4

1

1

13

WWDLWW

GAMEWEEK 39 FIXTURES

4

RUNCORN TOWN

6

4

0

2

12

WLWLWW

1874 Northwich v Winsford United

5

BOOTLE

6

4

0

2

12

LWWLWW

6

PADIHAM

6

4

0

2

12

WWWWLL

7

WEST DIDSBURY

6

4

0

2

12

WWWLWW

Barnoldswick Town v Nelson

8

1874 NORTHWICH

6

4

0

2

12

WWWLLW

Bootle v AFC Liverpool

9

IRLAM

6

3

1

2

10

WWLLDW

10

ASHTON ATHLETIC

6

2

3

1

9

DLWDWD

Padiham 2 Congleton Town 1 Runcorn Town 4 Abbey Hey 0

Abbey Hey v Irlam AFC Darwen v Padiham Atherton Colls v New Mills (14:00)

Congleton Town v Hanley Town Runcorn Linnets v Runcorn Town Squires Gate v Ashon Athletic

ON THIS DAY

2014

GATE SEE OFF AFC BLACKPOOL TO WIN THE INFAMOUS “EL SEASIDE-O�

SQUIRES GATE 1 AFC BLCKPOOL 0 FRIDAY 26TH DECEMBER 2014

Squires Gate hosted AFC Blackpool on Boxing Day in the first Blackpool derby of the year. Gate made one change from the side that drew with Abbey Hey Brett Ferguson coming in to replace the injured Harry Dunn.

It was right first half for both teams with both putting in strong tackles and showing real passion. Gates defence had to be at its strongest when Gate were caught on the break early in the first half, the defence though more than equal to Blackpools attack and the game stayed 0-0.

Gate struggled to get a real hold on the game and struggled to create a clear chance in the first half. Blackpool had their Chances but Gate made sure the game remained scoreless at half time.

Into the second half the first thing Gate did was make a change Jake Forshaw coming on for Rob Henry. The game was changed into the second half when Blackpool were reduced to 10 men, Muscroft judged to have lead with his leg when jumping for a header resulting in a straight red. This seemed to give Gate the boost they were looking for and they went on to dominate the second half. Gate made the break though shortly after the sending off. From the corner kick Colquhoun headed the ball back into the box to find an unmarked Mark Buchan who's header couldn't miss, the Scot opening the scoring to get his fourth for the season. Gate had chances to double their lead and on another day perhaps would have but in extreme weather conditions luck just wasn't on the home teams side. Gate pilled on the pressure late on to double their lead but looked understandably cautious to risk the result. Late chances for Mckendrick and Forshaw saw the game fizzle out to see Gate win the first Blackpool derby of the season.

LAST SEASON SQUIRES GATE 0 ASHTON ATHLETIC 0 SATURDAT 12TH SEPTEMBER 2015 Both teams made a good start to the game with both seemingly wanting to attack. Gates front men looked lively and didn’t give Ashton’s back line much time on the ball. The opening 20 minutes didn’t really have any notable clear cut chances until Mark Buchan hit the ball from the edge of the box. His shot could only find the keepers arms though. Ashton best chances came 5 minutes after Gates but Fletcher was on hand to deny Ashton’s attack. Former Gate striker Isaac Kusaloka had the chance to open the scoring after 35 minutes but his shot cannoned way over the bar. Gates best chance of the game came soon after. A free kick fired in found the head of Josh Westwood but his header could only find the post. But with the ball rattling off the post Cummings could have opened the scoring but he couldn’t guide the ball into the empty net. Ben Fletcher in net for Gate kept the home side in the game on the stroke of half time. Ashton’s Callum Mahoney striking from outside the box but Fletcher was equal to push the ball of the post and Daniel Smith couldn’t finish the rebound.

The second half saw little in the way of chances for either side. Gate tried to influence the game with substitutions and a change in formation but just couldn’t find that killer finish in the box. A good driving run beating 2 Ashton players by Cummings opened up space for Ferguson from left back but his curled effort fell straight into the arms of the keeper. Both Gates wingers were involved late on and both could have won the game for Gate. First Ash Rowley on as a sub hit the ball on the volley from outside the box but Ashton had 3 men on the line to clear the ball away. Then Billy McKennatried a

ASHTON ATHLETIC 0 SQUIRES GATE 2 SATURDAY 7TH MAY 2016

Gate started with an impressive urgency forcing an early free kick after just five minutes. The ball was sat in a brilliant position just behind the edge of the box, but Ryan Riley fired over. Mark Buchan was then sent through but Pearson in net for Ashton reacted quickest to collect the ball. Gate again had another free kick but this time joint Ashton manager Ben Kay was there to head back to the keeper. The home sides best chance of the first half came on 19 minutes. Kusaloka winning the ball from Trout on the right hand side, he played it into Danny Smith but the striker fired over the bar. Gate had two more chances from corners down the other end but couldn't convert from either. The experienced Franny Barry could have opened the scoring on 25 minutes when he shot first time trying to catch Ben Fletcher off guard. Luckily for Gate his shot dropped on top of the netting behind the goal. Gates final chance of the half came when Jake Higham played a brilliant ball into the patch of Ryan Riley. But his pull back into the box fell just behind the on rushing Buchan. Gate could have gone ahead 7 minutes into the second half when Jamie Gibson unleashed a thunderous strike from outside the box. Unfortunately for Gate Pearson in net was well behind the strike. Gate had another free kick on the right hand side of the box. This time Joe Noblet delivered but his cross was heavy to find Ryan Riley at the back post. His cross back in though was cleared by the home side.

Ashton could count themselves lucky not to go ahead on 59 minutes when Ben Fletcher made a match winning save. Joel Brownhill striking the ball forcing Fletcher to save the ball with one hand and tip it over the bar. The change in the game came on 63 minutes when Gate were awarded a penalty. Ryan Riley pushed in the back as he entered the box. His strike partner Mark Buchan stepped up and kept his nerve to slot the ball past Pearson and open the scoring. Gates emotions went from delight to disappointment soon after when Gate had a perfectly good second goal ruled out. Joe Noblet picked up the ball 40 yards out and unleashed a trademark long shot to beat the keeper in off the post. The ball came back out of the goal of the perimeter fence behind the goal net and back out. Much to the bemusement of everyone apart from the three officials in the ground the ref waved play on with Just Ashton's right back playing on. Gate could have had a second on 84 minutes when an own goal was almost scored. The corner whipped into the near post and the defender sliced his clearance but Pearson was there to smother the ball. The second would come in the dying minutes of the game as Joe Noblet finally got the goal he deserved. Sub Ryan Tanser sent clear he pulled the ball back to Noblet who side footed past the keeper to make sure of the 3 points for Gate Soon after the full time whistle was met with screams of joy from the Squires Gate player and

TODAY’S MATCH SPONSORS:

BLACKHURST BUDD FC & PAUL DOSSET

Squires Gate are delighted to welcome Sunday league side Blackhurst Budd FC as match day sponsors for our Boxing Day fixture against Ashton Athletic.

Blackhurst play in the Premier Division of The Bathroom Solutions Blackpool & Fylde Sunday football Alliance and currently sit unbeaten with games in hand on other around them.

Several of Gate's team play for Blackhurst on a Sunday and the team are managed by Gate keeper Andy Speight. Striker's Brett Dawson and Ryan Tanser also occasionally turn out for Blackhurst who are aiming to win all four competitions they enter this season.

A big thank you to secretary Paul Dosset and the team at Blackhurst Budd for sponsor this game and the club. If you'd like to watch Blackhurst in action they next play on Sunday 8th January, kick off 11am.

If you'd like to take advantage of our £25 match sponsorship offer for our next home game against Cammell Laird 1907 FC on Saturday 7th January get in touch with Mark Ashmore.

Either text/phone 07895539194 or email sgfccommercial@gmail.com.

HISTORIC PREMIER LEAGUE RESULTS We take a look back in Premier League history at some historic Premier League results that happened in December.

2015

WATFORD 3 LIVERPOOL 0

The Hornets recorded their first victory in 16 years over five-time European champions Liverpool with a 3-0 hammering to extend their winning run to four consecutive games. On loan defender Nathan Ake put the Golden Boys ahead inside two minutes before top scorer Odion Ighalo scored the first of two goals 12 minutes later. The Nigerian secured the three points for Quique Sanchez Flores’ side in the 85th minute and ensured Watford would be one point off a top-four position at Christmas.

Two minutes in and the 28-year-old Hungarian keeper looked to collect a Ben Watson corner unchallenged, but the ball slipped from his grasp, leaving Ake to poke in from close-range. It was the on-loan Chelsea defender’s first Premier League goal. Hornets captain Troy Deeney and Ighalo have created a name for themselves as one of the most formidable strike partnerships in the Premier League, and in the 15th minute they struck again.

Klopp’s side returned from the half-time interval with more invention, with both Adam Lallana and Alberto Moreno combining well down the left but failing to test Heurelho Gomes in the Watford goal. keeper but also past the post.

MANCHESTER UNITED 2 BLACKBURN ROVERS 3

2011

Sir Alex Ferguson didn’t receive the 70th birthday present he’d hoped for when bottom-of-the-table Blackburn pooped the party by pulling off one of the shocks of the season and stopping United gaining top spot.

Yakubu put Rovers ahead, firing home a penalty after being clumsily pulled down by Dimitar Berbatov in the box. The Yak was on target again after a blunder from Michael Carrick allowed the Nigerian striker an opening to slot past David de Gea. Berbatov made amends for his earlier error by nodding in Rafael’s mishit shot, then drawing the hosts level after some great work from Antonio Valencia down the right.

A winner seemed inevitable, but it was Blackburn’s Grant Hanley’s who got it, capitalising on some confusion in the United defence to head Blackburn into a late lead. The result left all at Old Trafford stunned, and helped keep Rovers boss Steve Kean in a job.

1999 The archetypal big man-little man partnership worked wonders for Peter Reid during the more succesful years of his tenure at the Stadium of Light, and one of the highlights for his front two was in this match against Chelsea.

The Black Cats were eager to reverse the 4-0 scoreline inflicted on them on the opening day of the season, and within 40 minutes found themselves four goals to the good. Two Kevin Phillips strikes, one a glorious dipping 35-yard half-volley, sandwiched a Niall Quinn double.

They sealed the deal, rendering useless Gus Poyet's late consolation for the shamed Blues.

SUNDERLAND 4 CHELSEA 1

—— SAT ——

21 JAN 15:00 VS MAINE ROAD

£6 ADULTS £3 CONCESSIONS FREE FOR UNDER 12’S

STATISTICALLY SPEAKING

0

WIN

2

2

HOME WIN

1

0

AWAY WIN

3

1

DEFEAT

1

0

HOME DEFEAT

0

1

AWAY DEFEAT

7

10

NO SCORE DRAW

0

5

SCORE DRAW

3

1

CONCEDING 1+ GOALS

1

0

SCORING 1+ GOALS

1

0

CLEAN SHEETS

0

28

BACK TO BACK WINS

6

GOALS

54

50 CLEAN SHEETS

3

10 CONCEDED

66

44 AVERAGE GOALS PER GAME

2

ASHTON ATHLEITC : 10 SEASON RECORD

2.1

ON THE ROAD

RUNCORN TOWN 31.12.16 WHO’S IN CHARGE?

GROUND The Pavilion LAST SEASON

RUNCORN TOWN 5 SQUIRES GATE 0 Gate could have gone ahead early on through Billy McKenna. After good work on the left Rowley sent the ball into the middle of the box but McKenna connected with the ball but saw the shot saved. Gate would be made to rue their chance, as their hosts would open the scoring. Poor defending from the corner allowed Marvin Molyneux to nip in at the back post from nothing more than a yard out to open the scoring.

Town went on to control the game and found the net again 10 minutes later. Rob Ablewhite pouncing on lethargic defending to slot the ball past Fletcher in net. The two goals were enough to wake Gate up and motivate them to move up a gear and start playing their football. But the same defensive laziness would rear its head again after a good spell from Gate. Town captain Paul Shanley beating his man with ease before moving the ball onto his stronger foot and putting the home side 3-0 up. One positive for Gate was there desire to play out of defence and keep possession of the ball. But Gate was almost made to pay when playing at the back Abblewhite nicked the ball whilst pressing but Fletcher saved well after coming off his line. Runcorn would pile on the misery for Gate with the last kick of the first half. Captain Paul Shanley again finding space coming in off the wing to find the back of the net.

After collecting their thoughts and re grouping at half time Gate went on to have a dominant second half.

Gate collectively as a team kept the ball a lot better seeing large spells of domination. But still the Blackpool side couldn’t find a cutting edge to score there way back into the game. A nice move was building from the back and moving Gate up the field. Debutant Stayte laid the ball of to Buchan who in turn found Rowley but his shot fell wide of the post. The returning Josh Kay had the next chance as Gate began to grow in the game but his shot could on find the netting above the crossbar not below. Sub Aaron Clarke nearly opened his account for the club after picking up the rebound from Ferguson’s shot Clarkes shot went over the bar. Gate’s last chance of the game was probably there best of the game. Billy McKenna lining up his free kick looked destined to beat the keeper, only for Lever to quickly adjust his feet and make the save. Runcorn would condemn Gate to there heaviest defeat so far this season as sub Stephen Milne would best Fletcher to make it five.

PRICES ARE AS FOLLOWS: Adults £5 Concessions (Over 60 & Under 16) - £3 Under 12’s - FREE

Joe

Matt

Jay

Ben

Arsenal v West Brom

3:1

3:2

H

3:0

Burnley v M’boro

1:1

1:2

D

3:1

Chelsea v Bournemouth

4:1

3:1

H

2:0

Leicester v Everton

1:2

2:2

A

1:1

Man United v Sunderland

2:0

4:0

H

2:0

Aston Villa v Burton

2:0

3:0

H

1:0

Preston v Leeds

1:2

1:3

A

1:2

DOUBLE POINTS

10 POINTS = CORRECT SCORE; 6 POINTS = CORRECT RESULT

Swansea v West Ham

1:3

0:2

A

1:4

Hull v Man City (Kick Off 5:15)

2:0

1:4

A

1:3

Watford v Crystal Palace (Kick Off 12:15)

3:2

2:3

A

2:0

CURRENT STANDINGS:

2015/16 CHAMPION: BEN FLETCHER

Name

Team

Role

Pts

Name

Team

Role

Pts

Steve Fraser

AFC Liverpool

Supporter

39

29

Danny Braid

Squires Gate

Member

17

Peter Murray

Abbey Hey

Supporter

38

30

Paul Stanton

New Mills

Supporter

17

David Knowles

Nelson

Supporter

33

31

Timothy Baker

1874 Northwich

Supporter

17

Bill White

Squires Gate

Member

31

32

Daniel Hayden

Squires Gate

Editor

15

Spencer Leader

Squires Gate

Member

31

33

Robert Handley

Barnton

Supporter

15

Brian Addison

Squires Gate

Groundsman

30

34

Paul Metcalfe

Chorley

Supporter

14

Groundhopper

28

35

Jack Owen

1874 Northwich

Supporter

14

Peter Harlow Alan Lowe

Atherton LR

Supporter

27

36

Callum Waters

1874 Northwich

Supporter

13

Mark Buchan

Squires Gate

Striker

26

37

Lee Rooney

Atherton Collieries

Supporter

12

Ray Richards

Squires Gate

Member

26

38

Jake Higham

Squires Gate

Defender

12

Jay Hayden

Squires Gate

Programme Editor

26

39

Paul Speed

AFC Liverpool

Player

12

Amy Stanton

New Mills

Supporter

25

40

Robin Squelch

Cheadle Town

Supporter

11

John Booth

Hyde United

Supporter

25

41

Neil McGuinness

Nelson

Nelson Media

11

Emile Anderson

Atherton Collieries

Supporter

25

42

Matthew Murphy

AFC Darwen

Supporter

11

Colin Marrison

Handsworth Parramore

Player

25

43

Joe Noblet

Squires Gate

Midfielder

9

Albert Cooper

Squires Gate

Photographer

24

44

Glyn Davies

Runcorn Town

Supporter

9

Russell Cox

Wycombe Wanderer

Groundhopper

24

Steve Palmer

Squires Gate

Member

24

Martin Fallon

Runcorn Town

Committee

23

Steve McLellan

AFC Fylde

Photographer

21

Danny Penswick

Squires Gate

Manager

21

Gary Langley

NWCFL

Committee

20

Steve Leader

Squires Gate

Member

19

Brian Penswick

Squires Gate

Assistant Manager

18

Mark Ashmore

Squires Gate

Media Manager

18

Mark Riding

1874 Northwich

Supporter

18

Ryan Brown

Nelson

Supporter

18

Sarah Hindle

AFC Darwen

Secretary

18

Ben Stanton

New Mills

Supporter

18

THIS WEEK IN FOOTBALL HISTORY In our regular feature, we take a look back on this week in football history. `

2007

BENDTNER SETS NEW RECORD

On 22 December 2007, Arsenal forward Nicklas Bendtner set an English record by scoring only 1.8 seconds after coming on as a late substitute against Tottenham Hotspur. Although Bendtner had signed with the Gunners back in 2005, he had spent the 2006-07 season on loan at Birmingham and was eager to establish a place in the Arsenal first team. By December, he had scored crucial goals in the League Cup and the Champions League, but had not yet opened his Premier League account.

His moment finally came in the North London derby, as Arsenal hosted Tottenham. With Bendtner on the bench, Arsenal took a 1-0 lead with a goal from Emmanuel Adebayor (48'), but Dimitar Berbatov (66') drew Spurs level. The visitors had a chance to go ahead in the 72nd minute after the referee awarded a penalty for a Kolo Toure foul on Berbatov, but Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia saved Robbie Keane's tame attempt. Two minutes later, with the match level at 1-1, Arsene Wenger made an attacking change, sending Bendtner on for midfielder Emmanuel Eboue. The Danish striker immediately positioned himself near the far post for a Cesc Fabregas corner kick, then charged into the goalmouth to head the ball past

PANDEV NOT PAID

2009

On 23 December 2009, Lega Calcio resolved a lengthy dispute between Lazio forward Goran Pandev and his boss, club owner Claudio Lotito, by ordering the club to release Pandev and pay him €160,000. The Macedonian international had played for Lazio since 2004 and had been a key performer for the Roman club, amassing a total of 60 goals in 177 appearances through the 2008-09 season--a season in which they won the Coppa Italia. But over the summer of 2009, with Pandev entering the last year of his contract, club and player drifted apart over Pandev's demands for a wage increase. When Lazio refused to accede to his demands, Pandev asked for a transfer. The request incensed Lotito, who referred to the forward as a "rebel" and set a transfer fee at the improbably high amount of €19M. Zenit St. Petersburg approached the club with an offer for €13M, but could not reach an agreement. Meanwhile, Lazio refused to play Pandev and, at times, forced him to train on his own.With the stalemate showing no signs of resolution, Pandev turned to the Italian league's governing body, Lega Calcio, claiming that Lazio's treatment was a breach of contract. The body agreed and, in their December order, commanded the club to release Pandev and pay him punitive damages. Lotito vowed to appeal, telling the press "I can only say that this doesn't end here." It did end there, however, as Pandev signed with Inter just over two weeks later.

1875 On 25 December 1875, Hearts and Hibernian met for the very first time, forming one of the oldest existing rivalries in football.

Hibernian, who had been founded earlier that August, had close connections to Edinburgh's Irish Catholic population, with all players required to be members of the Catholic Young Men's Society. And they drew their name from the Roman name for Ireland. As a result, they faced sectarian isolation from many other clubs in the country, with the Scottish Football Association announcing "We are catering for Scotsmen, not Irishmen."

Fellow Edinburgh club Hearts, founded one year earlier, were the first to cross the sectarian divide, meeting Hibs at the Meadows on Christmas Day 1875 for a friendly. And, despite playing with only 8 players for the first 20 minutes, Hearts were rewarded with a 1-0 victory.

Since then, Hearts have enjoyed the better part of the derby, winning a total of 280 matches, including six of the last nine. Hibs, meanwhile, have won the derby 203 times, with 153 draws

UP NEXT FOR GATE 2015/16 Final Position:15th

CAMMELL LAIRD 1907 Saturday 7th January 2017 The Royal British Legion Stadium

Current League Position:22nd Last Meeting: Squires Gate 2 Cammell Laird 2 Current League Form (Most Recent First):L L D L L L

Kick Off: 15:00 Adults £6, Concessions £3

2015/16 Final Position:12th

MAINE ROAD Saturday 21st January 2017 The Royal British Legion Stadium

Current League Position:10th Last Meeting: Squires Gate 0 Maine Road 5 Current League Form (Most Recent First):W W D W W D

Kick Off: 15:00 Adults £6, Concessions £3

2015/16 Final Position:12th

WINSFORD UNITED Saturday 28th January 2017 The Royal British Legion Stadium

Current League Position:18th Last Meeting: Squires Gate 1 Winsford United 3 Current League Form (Most Recent First): W L L L D L

Kick Off: 15:00 Adults £6, Concessions £3

2015/16 Final Position:8th Runcorn Town Saturday 31st December 2016 The Pavilions

Current League Position:1st Last Meeting: Runcorn Town 5 Squires Gate 1 Current League Form (Most Recent First): W L W L W W

Kick Off: 13:00 Adults £6, Concessions £3

2015/16 Final Position:18th AFC Darwen Saturday 14th January 2017 Stadium Kick Off: 15:00

Current League Position:19th Last Meeting: AFC Darwen 2 Squires Gate 3 Current League Form (Most Recent First): W L W L L D

THE TEAMS

v SQUIRES GATE FOOTBALL CLUB

ASHTON ATHLETIC FOOTBALL CLUB

Manager: Daniel Penswick

(GK) Josh WOODS

Manager: Kevin Dally

TODAY’S

(GK) Martin PEARSON

Paul CARROLL

MATCH

Alex ASHBY

Jacob HIGHAM

OFFICIALS

Bradley ASPINALL

Calvin ROSS

REFEREE

Samuel BAILEY

Andrew RICHARDS

David ROSSALL

David Croft

Aaron CRINGLE

Ben FISHWICK Jamie GIBSON Mike HALL Joe NOBLET

Joel BROWNHILL

ASSISTANTS Neil Evans David Jones

Ben SEEAR

Marcus CUSANI Matthew FARNWORTH Conal GALLAGHER Adam GILCHRIST Luke HOLDEN

Anthony STAYTE Mark THORNBER

Brain HUTTON

Danny PENSWICK

Adam HOWARD

Brett DAWSON

Harry JOHNSON

Danny MORRIS

Stephen KAY

Ryan TANSER

Isacc KUSALOKA

Ryan STAYTE

Daniel REGAN

Seydou BAMBA

Joe SARGENT

Paul ALEXANDER

Aaron SIMPSON Daniel SMITH Paul WATSON Christopher WEBSTER Callum WILSON

NEXT: Home Match NEXT: Away Match CAMMELL LAIRD 1907 RUNCORN TOWN Saturday 7th January 2017 - 3PM Saturday 31st December 2016 - 1PM