Squires Gate v Runcorn Linnets

V Runcorn Linnets 22.04.17 15:000 Hallmark Security League Premier Division Issue 24

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

FROM THE DUGOUT

PREDICTION CORNER

Danny tells us what he thinks off our chance off survival and if he feels if we can get anything out off this game. He also told us Gate Legend Andy Richards could be playing his lst game at the home off squires gate

This week we have Runcorn Linnets Fan Ellis Clarke.

THIS WEEK IN FOOTBAL HISTORY

GIVE IT FIVE We have a look at Runcorn Linnet's last five results.

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

VIEW FROM AWAY END

MATCH ACTIOIN

In our regular feature, this week we have Runcorn Linnets fan Ellis Clarke, we found what he thinks Runcorn need to grain promotion this season after 3 season at 2nd. We also found who he think will be the biggest threat to gate.

Mark Ashmore gives us reports on our 1-1 draw with Congleton Town, our 2-1 lost to Ashton Athletic on Easter ground

NWCFL TOOK PART IN FIRST EVER GROUND HOP NWCFL hosted they first ever ground hop over the Easter Sunday abd Easter Monday

FACTS AND STATS We take look and some facts and stats between both teams and we look at Runcorn Linnet 10 Season Record in the NWCFL league table.

CHAIRMAN

GROUNDSMAN

PHOTOGRAPHY

STUART HOPWOOD

BRIAN ADDISON

ALBERT COOPER (HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER)

SECRETARY

MARK ASHMORE

MARK ASHMORE

JOHN MAGUIRE

PETER BRYANT

CONTRIBUTORS

TREASURER

STEVE BELLAMY

MARK ASHMORE

JOHN STOKES

HOSPITALITY

ALBERT COOPER

MANAGERS

DENISE GIBSON

DANNY PENSWICK

DANNY PENSWICK

EMMA HOPWOOD

ELLIS CLARKE

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’’D LIKE TO PAY A SPECIAL THANKS TO RICO. THE CAPTAIN LEGEND LEADER MAY BE WALKING OUT FOR THE LAST TIME AT THE BRAIN ADDISON STADIUM” Good afternoon everyone, Today we welcome Runcorn Linnets in our final home league game of the season. After a slow start they've really kicked on and are finishing the season as the in form side. There right up there which you'd expect but their progression must surely have Linnets fans dreaming of going one better next time out.

For us it's been a season of two halves. One excellent and one frankly awful. I'd be lying if I expected relegation to still be a possibility now but at least we have it own our hands.

We know we can go toe to toe the other the best sides and we're going to do exactly that. If we've learnt anything these past few weeks it's that we must score 4. There's every chance we'll concede 3 so let's score 4.

Also I'd like to pay a special thanks to Rico. The captain Legend leader may be walking out for the last time at the Brian Addison Stadium today and over 12 seasons he's been a great servant to the club.

Let's hope it's a cracker and let's hope we get the job done

Up the Gate!!

Danny .

GATE

1

SMITH 89

CONGLETON

1

FLECTHER 9 SATURDAY, APRIL 8 THE BRAIN ADDISON STADIUM ATTENDANCE: 105 GATE: GRIFFITH ,RICO,ALEXANDER, ROSSAL, MOORHEAD,HALL,, WATERS,MOXON, BAMBA,NOBLET,ROTHWELL CONGLETON TOWN: DIXON,GITTINS,JACKSON,WILLIS,JONES,BAT HGATE,BAILEY,SEPHTON,FLETCHER,GAR DNER,HIBBERT

Reported By Mark Ashmore

Pictures By Ian Davis

Squires Gate left it till the death on Saturday afternoon to pick up a valuable point in their end of season run in. Congleton Town had taken the lead after 10 minutes but a 97th minute equaliser from 17 year old sub Conor Smith denied the visitors all three points.

Gate started the game well and had the chance to take the lead after four minutes. Max Rothwell cut inside and almost intercepted a back pass in front of the keeper but the Bears stopper did well to be Max to the ball. Up the other end the visitors went close, showing early on what a tight end to end game this would be. The visitors would take the lead in fortunate fashion after eight minutes. A clear looking foul on Paul Alexander waved away by the referee allowed Congleton to cross into the box where Declan Fletcher headed into Joe Griffith in goal, with the ball falling into the net, another foul not given. Gate had Joe Griffith to thank after sixteen minutes when he got down low to his left to save a low drive. The ball was given away up front and the visitors broke with pace but Griffith did well to save. The Bears would test Gate again after thirtythree minutes but they fired wide from the edge of the box. Gate would end the first half the better of the two sides. Tarren Moxon showed a great burst of pace to get away from the defence but his cut back was easily cleared with nobody in the box for Gate. Gate then had a goal disallowed two minutes before half time. Dave Rossall got up highest to meet the corner but the Congleton defender did well to head the ball off the line and behind for a corner.

The second half saw a much better display from Gate who became more attacking as the game went on searching for that equaliser. A succession of free kicks for Gate came to nothing as first Paul Alexander's effort hit the wall then Joe Noblet's follow up shot was well over. Then the visitors easily cleared from Noblet's freekick into the box then forced Griffith into a good save down the other end after countering. Another freekick was played in by Paul Alexander and he found his defensive partner Dave Rossall but his header could only find the hands of the keeper. Gate changed up their formation with sub Jordan Casey coming on and looked better for it in the last 20 minutes. Charlie Waters, now on the opposite flank, did well to beat his man easily, his pass into the box found Joe Noblet but his weak shot was easily saved by the keeper.

Tarren Moxon was sent through over the top with 13 minutes left and after doing the hard work of getting away from his man he fired wide of the goal. Late into the game Gate were denied what looked like a stonewall penalty after Dave Rossall, up from a corner, was fouled on the edge of the box with a knee high tackle. But like throughout the game and for both teams, the referee waved away what looked like another clear decision.

Gate didn't give up though and in the 97th minute grabbed a deserved equaliser. Step up Conor Smith just two weeks after his 17th birthday to fire into the goal after Joe Noblet's shot deflected into his path.

ASHTON

2

SMITH 9 VAUGHAN 63

GATE

1

NOBLET 2 SUNDAY, APRIL 16 STADIUM ATTENDANCE: 298 ASHTON:

GATE: GRIFFITH,RICAHRDS,ROSSALL,MOORHEAD, ALEXANDER,HALL,ROTHWELL(B.SEEAR 45),NOBLET(PENSWICK64), WATERS,MOXON,CASEY

Reported By Mark Ashmore Pictures By Albert Cooper

Squires Gate lost out again in league action this weekend in front of a bumper Easter crowd of near 300. Gate were involved in the leagues first eve ground hop day and played the first of three games on Easter Sunday.

Gate travelled to Ashton Athletic for an 11:30 am kick off at a ground that has fond memories for Gate. Danny Penswick secured the clubs Premier Division status last season on the last day.

This game was as important in Gates season as well. A win for Penswick's men would see them mathematically safe with New Mills only drawing on Saturday.

Gates league status is vertically seduces anyway, bar four wins from their last four games for New Mills. Gate started this game superbly and looked to have adjusted well to Penswick's tactical switch of three up front. They opened the scoring after two minutes when Joe Noblet reacted quickest when keeper Martin Pearson dropped Tarren Moxon's cross into the box. Noblet made no mistake in firing the ball into the roof of the net to give Gate the lead.

Ashton would equalise in some style 15 minutes later with a well worked goal. The ball was played low into the back post where the Ashton striker back heeled the ball past Griffith into the bottom corner.

Gates overall performance on the pitch was very encouraging in the first half reacting well to going behind and still trying to carve out chances for the front three.

First Max Rothwell took aim from outside the box but fired wide before Joe Noblet tried to grave another goal, but also fired wide.

As the first half came to a close Ashton had a couple of chances to give them hope for the second half. First Ashton broke forward and fired wide from the right hand side. Then after Pearson in the Ashton net punched clear before Alexander could head from a corner, Ashton had three successive corners all defended well by Gate.

Compared to the first half, the second half was completely different for Gate. The phrase 'game of two halves' has never been so appropriate for Gate.

Ashton would take the lead after 69 minutes. After a shaky start for Gate Ashton struck with two passes and a clever finish. Tarren Moxon gave the ball away up front trying to play in Jordan Casey, Ashton broke forward down the right and crossed the ball low into the box to find a spare man at the back post to fire past Griffith. The second half started to fizzle out for Gate who didn't really get back into the game until the last 10 minutes. Late chances from free kicks and corners couldn't be converted. Corey Moorhead specifically did well to stretch to keep in a late corner but Gate couldn't capitalise from the follow up.

AFC DARWEN

4

HEPPLE 55,65,74 LANGFORD 60

GATE

1

DAWSON 72

Squires Gate lost a crucial game at the bottom end of the table against fellow strugglers AFC Darwen to keep them well within the relegation battle.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19 WEC GROUP ANCHOR GROUND ATTENDANCE: 104 AFC DARWEN: PROCTOR,WEDGE,BAILEY,SCOTT.DOUGLAS,AL LEN,RAPLH,NABEEL,HEPPLE,GAUL,KANGF ORD GATE: GRIFFITH,RICAHRDS,CARROLL,HALL.PENSWIC K,MOORHEAD,CASEY,THORNBER (NOBLET 67) ,MOXON (DAWSON 62),ALEXANDER,B.SEEAR Reported By Mark Ashmore

Pictures By Albert Cooper

A win would have moved Gate clear of New Mills who can only pick up a maximum of nine points from their last three games. The loss though now moves them to fourth bottom just seven points from AFC Darwen.

Manager Danny Penswick made several changes to the side that narrowly lost out the Ashton Athletic on Easter Sunday. Defender Paul Alexander started up front and Paul Carroll, Mark Thornber and Ben Seear came into the side.

The first half was a very tight affair with both sides having chances but failing to convert.

First Darwen went close but Andrew Richards did well to block the shot with his chest. Gate the had a good chance of their own when Ben Seear was unlucky to shoot wide from outside the box.

Arguably the best chance of the game fell to Darwen. Gate switched off from the quick throw and cross but luckily Darwen headed wide.

The first half ended with Gate going close again in what was an end to end finish to the game. The ball coming into the back post found Moorhead but his shot was blocked with the corner coming to nothing.

Gate started the second half arguably the better team and had some good chances in the first five minutes. Paul Alexander floated in a lovely ball to the back post but the keeper did well to punch away before the onrushing Jordan Casey could meet the ball.

Gate the had a clear scoring opportunity bought back by a poor decision a couple of minutes later. Tarren Moxon wrongly flagged offside after the ball came of a Darwen man last.

Darwen opened the scoring from Gates own attack after Gate were unlucky not to score.

Tarren Moxon's header was cleared off the line and Darwen broke. They raced down the right hand side and crossed low into the box where Nick Hepple was on hand to fire in. As quick as the first goal came in the second soon followed. Conor Gaul allowed too much time to get to the byline and cross into the front post to allow for an easy tap in. Ten minutes later Darwen were allowed too much time and space outside the box to easily fire past Griffiths for a quick fire third. Substitute Brett Dawson then pulled a goal back for Gate with a clever finish. He showed good feet to take the ball away from the keeper when one on one and slot past him. It all happened too little too late for Gate though who could find another goal.

SATURDAY 15TH APRIL 2017

TUESDAY 10TH JANUARY 2017

RUNCORN LINNETS 1

RUNCORN LINNETS 1

MAINE ROAD 0

NANTWICH TOWN 2

SATURDAY 8TH APRIL 2017

SATURDAY 7TH JANUARY 2017

AFC DARWEN 0

RUNCORN LINNETS 2

RUNCORN LINNETS 3

HANLEY TOWN 5

SATURDAY 1ST APRIL 2017 ATHERON COLLS 0 RUNCORN LINNETS 1 SATURDAY 25TH MARCH 2017 BOOTLE 1

RUNCORN LINNETS 2

WEDNESDAY 30TH NOVEMBER 2016 AFC LIVERPOOL 3 RUNCORN LINNETS 1 SATURDAY 29TH OCTOBER 2016 RUNCORN LINNETS 2

ASHTON ATHLETIC 3

SATURDAY 18TH MARCH 2O17

SATURDAY 22ND OCTOBER 2016

RUNCORN LINNETS 5

SOUTH SHIELDS 2

CONGLETON TOWN 2

RUNCORN LINNETS 1

SATURDAY 15TH APRIL 2017

MONDAY 17TH APRIL 2017

RUNCORN LINNETS 1

HANLEY TOWN 0

MAINE ROAD 0

RUNCORN LINNETS 0

SATURDAY 18TH MARCH 2O17

SATURDAY 8TH APRIL 2017

SATURDAY 16TH APRIL 2016

RUNCORN LINNETS 5

AFC DARWEN 0

RUNCORN LINNETS 2

CONGLETON TOWN 2

RUNCORN LINNETS 3

SQUIRES GATE 0

TUESDAY 4TH MARCH 2017

SATURDAY 1ST APRIL 2017

SATURDAY 28TH MARCH 2016

RUNCORN LINNETS 2

ATHERON COLLS 0

RUNCORN LINETS 2

ASHTON ATHLETIC 1

RUNCORN LINNETS 1

SQUIRES GATE 0

SATURDAY 21ST JANUARY 2017

SATURDAY 25TH MARCH 2017

TUESDAY 10TH MARCH 2015

RUNCORN LINNETS 2

BOOTLE 1

SQUIRES GATE 1

BARNOLDSWICK TOWN 0

RUNCORN LINNETS 2

RUNCORN LINNETS 1

TUESDAY 10TH JANUARY 2017

SATURDAY 11TH MARCH 2017

SATURDAY 1ST MARCH 2014

RUNCORN LINNETS 1

1874 NORTHWICH 1

SQUIRES GATE 0

NANTWICH TOWN 2

RUNCORN LINNETS 4

RUNCORN LINNERS 4

SATURDAY 30TH APRIL 2016 SQUIRES GATE 2 RUNCORN LINNERS 3

INTRODUCING

RUNCORN LINNETS Everything you need to know about today’s visitors This afternoon we welcome Runcorn Linnets to The Brain Addison Stadium. Runcorn Linnets are coming into todays game in very good forum and still up to grain promotion to the Evo-Stick. Linnets came close to promotion for 3 season but have come runner ups for 3 years on the bounce. Runcorn Linnets will be no walk over todays as Gate found In there away back in November where get was 3-0 up after 45 minutes but Linnets came out in the second half and took al 3 points off Linnets.

Linnets also coming into today’s game off a Easter Monday draw to Hanley Town but before that hey had a massive 13 game unbeaten won going back to January. Runcorn Linnets scored few goals this season and today be no different and they be looking to Mark Houghton who has score 23 goals in his 38 appearance this season.

THE BOSS: Having retired from playing as our club captain at the end of 2016-17 season, with more than 200 Runcorn appearances under his belt, Michael was appointed as Linnets manager in July 2016.

This is his first management position and a role he has taken to with typical vigour and enthusiam while carrying out major rebuilding.

As a player, he joined Winsford United in September 2010 and later moved to Runcorn Linnets in 2011, anchoring the midfield to great effect and chipping in with the the odd goal. (Well, two to be precise!)

His inaugural effort at Abbey Hey prompted scenes of wild celebration on the terraces and a new catchphrase "I was there when Ello scored".

Throughout his time as a player at The Millbank Linnets Stadium, Michael proved a great example to younger members of the squad and was also instrumental in helping the club through league and cup successes. He now continues to be an inspiration in the dressing room and on the touchline.

The popular figure was awarded the Players' Player and Supporters Club Player Of The Year awards in 2012-2013 season.

THE ROCK ANDY THORPE

FACT FILE Formed: 2006

Position: Defender Apps: 3 Goals: 0

Stadium: Millbank Linnets

Andy was born in Wythenshawe and with the exception of a successful year playing football in Australia, his career has been based in and around his native Manchester. He arrived at The Millbank Linnets Stadium in the summer of 2016 after four years at North West Counties League rivals, Maine Road with whom he won Premier Division and League Challenge Cup runners-up medals and made around 100 appearances.

Andy's spell Down Under saw him play in the South Australia Super League with Western Strikers, being awarded the Players' Player of the Year award. The Manchester United fan began his career as a youth-team player at Altrincham and one of the abiding memories from his time at Moss Lane was reaching the first round of the FA Youth Cup, playing against Barnsley at Oakwell. A former student of Manchester Metropolitan University, he now works as a PE teacher in secondary education. 30years-old Andy brings much valuable experience to a young Linnets squad and will no doubt prove to be a big asset on the field and an important character in the dressing room.

Capacity: 1,600 Manager: Michael Ellison Chairman: Derek Greenwood Record attendance: 324 Website: www.runcornlinnets.co.uk Twitter: @runcornlinnets 2015/16 position: 2nd

MIDDLE OF THE PARK ZAC ALEY Position Midfield App: 18 Goals: 3 Twenty-five-year-old Zac became the second player in four days to join the Runcorn ranks when he followed Stuart Wellstead into The Millbank Linnets Stadium in the last week of October 2016. Liverpool-born midfield player Zac spent two years at Blackburn Rovers, who he joined in 2010, having come through the youth ranks at Haig Avenue to make the Southport first team. While at Ewood Park, he had loan spells with Morecambe in League Two and Macclesfield Town rejoining Southport, also on a temporary basis in between.

On his release by Blackburn in summer 2012, Zac again returned to Southport on trial but subsequently moved to Warrington Town of the Evo-Stik League. He has also since played for Northwich Victoria and in the North West Counties League for Ashton Town. Zac, who can also play in defence, is a qualified referee.

THE FINISHER MARK HOUGHTON Position: Attacker Apps: 38 Goals: 23 Mark began his playing career at the top of the non-league ladder with Southport in the Football Conference, scoring a number of times against sides who are now in the Football League. He joined Skelmersdale United in 2010 and later moved to Chorley under the guidance of Garry Flitcroft where he won the Northern Premier League First Division North title before returning to Skem. The fast-moving striker joined Runcorn Linnets FC in December 2012 and scored in the club's League Challenge Cup Final victory over Formby in May 2013.

Mark has had a major influence with his consistency, knack of popping up with important goals and versatility. He can play in the wide positions, behind the front men or as the main striker - a role he successfully adopted in the 4-1 win over Irlam which got our 2016-17 season up and running. Mark scored a crucial equaliser before half-time before chipping in with another in the second half as the Linnets posted a first win of the season to end newly-promoted Irlam's long unbeaten run in league football. The player continued to revel in his return to front line action and the first of his two goals in early October's 5-0 home defeat of Bootle was his 50th for the Linnets. Houghto's strong on-field contribution and loyalty to Runcorn Linnets had in pre-season been rewarded with the vice-captaincy. A

HISTORY Runcorn Linnets Football Club was born on 28 April 2006 after Runcorn AFC had intimated that they would not be in a position to field a team in the following season. Since leaving town in 2000, the club had suffered a troubled and nomadic existence.

Fans met at on their spiritual home of Canal Street – in the Quayside function rooms next door to the now Linnets Park housing estate on which Runcorn’s ground had stood. Those supporters, determined not to let 88 years of football tradition die, voted to establish a new community club. An existing Supporters Trust was remodelled to run Runcorn Linnets, whose identity was derived from Runcorn AFC’s nickname.

With only four months to the start of a new season, business and action plans were drawn up and negotiations opened with the FA, the Cheshire FA, the NWCL, Supporters Direct and Witton Albion FC in Wincham, Northwich, where Linnets ground shared for four seasons.

The club was accepted into the NWCL league by the member clubs on Saturday 17 June 2006 at the AGM in Buxton and former Runcorn player and boss Steve Carragher joined as manager.

LAST TIME OUT

HANLEY TOWN 0 RUNCORN LINNETS 0 PREMIER DIVISON/ABBEY LANE/MONDAY 17TH APRIL 2017/ATT:126

01 ADAM CAUNCE 01 DANE JACKSON

02 DANIEL MCKENNA

02 CHARLES GOLDSTRAW

03 THOMAS HARDWICK

03 JONATHAN SHELDON

04 AARONN MORRIS

04 BENJAMIN BLOWERS

05 DANNY O’BRIEN

05 JOSHUA THORPE

06 KIERAN NOLAN

06 MARTIN STANTER

07 KRISTIAN HOLT

07 OLIVER MELLOR

08 KYLE HAMID

08 JAMIE SKELLERN

09 MARK HOUGHTON

09 DANIEL COPE

10 ZACHERY ALEY

10 THEO STAIR

11 ANTHONY HICKEY

11 ANGELO ERRICO 12 MICHEAL SIMPSON 12 THOMAS ASHTON

14 STAURT WELLSTEAD

14 JOSHUA BRISTOW

15 ADAM WADE

15 JOE DONALDSON

16 CHRISTOPHER LAWTON

16 MICHAEL MORTON

17 MATTHEW CROSS

A TITLE charge which most thought would never get off the ground, given the turbulent close season at The Millbank Linnets Stadium, ended on Easter Monday in Linnets' third from last game of their Hallmark Security League Premier Division campaign. This goalless draw, coupled with Atherton Collieries' hefty 5 -1 home defeat of struggling Darwen earlier in the day, meant that Linnets are no longer able to overtake the league leaders. A controversial encounter in the Potteries provided another incredible moment in a season which has been remarkable for the progress made by the visitors under manager Michael Ellison, in his first season of management, and assistant Matt Cross. The duo have lifted Runcorn from their summer of despair to a certain top-four finish, no matter what happens in the remaining two weeks of the campaign. However, this was another game in which Linnets mettle was again truly tested along with the patience of their followers. They looked on in anguish, if not disbelief, as Linnets were forced to play with 10 men from the fourth minute after the dismissal of Kieran Nolan and finished the contest with just nine. Holding midfielder Nolan was left dumbfounded as the referee brandished an instant red card, without giving himself any thinking time whatsoever, after an early tackle in midfield. It could be argued that the teenager had raised a boot as he moved laterally on the halfway line to make the challenge but his actions had by no means been reckless. It was the type of challenge which in many instances at this level would have warranted a yellow card, and even then only later in the game when cautions are often dished out in a flourish. The referee had set his standard but it was one he didn't follow. Later in the first half, Mark Houghton was hacked down from behind then Kyle Hamid caught very late by an opposition player. But neither offence was seen by the referee as deserving of punishment – in fact, his only response with Hamid poleaxed was to book two Linnets players for dissent. Rarely has a crowd been so generally up in arms at the performance of an official. t didn't get any better in the second half and while an aerial assault on left back Danny McKenna passed without even a whistle, the Linnets were penalised again when Antony Hickey (having already been cautioned for a foul) was shown a second yellow, for speaking out of turn. It is not the kind of offence any club or supporter wants to one of their own sent off for. Of course it is not.

But players are only human and there comes a point under provocation and for self protection when it becomes impossible not to react. Still looking to win when one player short, despite this being the second run-out in the space of 48 hours for the vast majority of these players, once down to nine midway through the second half, it was a case of Linnets battening down the hatches for survival in another mighty effort from the away side. But even with a twoman advantage, Hanley rarely looked like following up January's 5-2 win at The Millbank and resorted mostly to long shots, invariably from one of their centre halves, as the game wore on. There was, however, one astonishing reflex save from Adam Caunce to both admire and savour and another very accomplished, unhurried display by ever-present Aaron Morris at the heart of the Linnets rearguard. All games are different as are individual referees in their demeanour and interpretation of the laws and there were certainly some interesting decisions all through the game.

VIEW FROM AWAY END

Coming to Squires Gate is lovely on a warm- Have you been to Squires Gate before? er Saturday afternoon, not great to get to If so, what was the score? midweek in winter though.

Last season was my 1st visit, previously I Which players do you think will be the struggled because the game was midweek At the end of last season “We go again!” biggest threat to gate? and I didn’t fancy the journey up the M6 was the mantra. It felt like the team were We’ve got goals all over the pitch.

Mark after a full day in work. Hats off to all of the going to come back and go for it again.

Houghton is a menace to defences chasing players and fans who do it.

Then in pre-season we lost a huge number lost causes keeping teams on the back foot The score was 2-3 in our favour. There was of players including the whole defence.

Then Joey Dunn left… we had to reset expec- all game. Freddie Potter has come back like a bonkers few minutes were 3 goals were tations. Michael Ellison and Matt Cross took a new player. Both full backs provide fantas- scored in what felt like a few seconds play. tic set pieces. Kris Holt and Kyle Hamid driv- Fantastic stuff… because we won. over and have done such a great job that ing in from midfield. Paul Shanley cutting in If you were manager of a 5 a side team we’re now at a point of dreaming again.

After missing out for the 3rd time in a from the wing… or Ant Hickey? Probably and had to 2 Linnets players and 3 BPL easier to say that the only one without a row to Colne last season what did you legends. Who would be in your side threat is the goalie! want to change so that you can get and why What has been the most memorable From what I can see the players favour Livpromoted this season? moment and game for you within your erpool but I favour Everton, do I choose for It’s safe to say that we didn’t want the time watching Runcorn Linnets? me or give them a treat. Neville Southall for amount change that we got! The fans at st Winning the League Cup in Joey Dunn’s 1 me, Scholes because he was just ace and… the club like a stable team… it’s always a season will live long in the memory.

Gerrard for the red fans of which Kyle Hashame to lose a player after you’ve given What players will be key for you this mid is definitely one, let’s treat him for his them their own song. fantastic loyalty. We need a Defender, so After an up and down start to the first season? finally Aaron Morris, he has had a great seahalf of the season what are your expec- The key players this year have been that tations for the remaining games off the stuck with us through the turbulence of pre- son. season and the formation of the new team. Have you ever been to Wembley beseason and where do you hope your Kyle Hamid and Mark Houghton have been fore? And What would be your ideal finished? vital. Young lads like Danny McKenna, Kris scenario there?

The expectation is probably to go close Holt and Aaron Morris have been fantastic, Yes, I went twice to the old Wembley – it again, we’re on a great run, beating Colls, they’ll go on to play at higher levels, I’m was iconic but rubbish for watching footie. I Bootle, 1874 etc recently has sent us up the sure, hopefully with Linnets. saw Everton lose to Chelsea in 2009, dream table, even touching top for a day or so.

What players will be key for you this start in a fantastic stadium.

But the start that we had whilst the team season?

Ideal scenario… Linnets v Everton in the FA settled in means that we need the teams at The key players this year have been that Cup Final… Do I have to choose between the top to have a nightmare to finish top. stuck with us through the turbulence of prethem? It’s literally like choosing between Colls look favourite and it’s hard to see past season and the formation of the new team. my Son (Everton fan) and Daughter them for the top team this season. We’ll Kyle Hamid and Mark Houghton have been (Linnets). I’ll take a high scoring draw and I have to settle for doing the double over vital.

Young lads like Danny McKenna, Kris won’t watch the penalties! them.

Holt and Aaron Morris have been fantastic, Are you looking forward to the the last What teams did you enjoyed going up they’ll go on to play at higher levels, I’m few months off the season and what against or played this season? sure, hopefully with Linnets. do you expected to see from your We’ve had good results against the other If you could sign 3 Premier League playteam? teams in the top 5… Although we’ve only ers on a free transfer, who would you Really looking forward to the last few got 1 point out of the other team nearby. games. I just hope the lads keep enjoying Winning away at Bootle was a new experi- sign and why?

I’d want players who show some love for themselves. The deflation at the end of last ence and very enjoyable at that. season is long gone now. So let’s just keep What grounds that you enjoy visiting? the game. The focus on maximising the money all round just bores me. I’ll go for it positive.

Away games in the NWCFL are all great.

Kane, Hazard and Zlatan.

Probably not West Didsbury & Chorlton is a good day out, Prediction for today's s game? much tracking back there. quinoa and craft beer all round.

The same as last season would be great.

Plenty of goals and a win.

What are your expectations for the season after your 2nd place finished last season?

AUGUST SAT 6TH AUG

MALTBY MAIN

15.00

A

0-1

68

-

-

FA CUP (EPR)

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

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

0-2

109

15TH

28

NWCFL

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

MON 26TH DEC

ASHTON ATHLETIC

15:OO

H

1-1

100

15TH

29

NWCFL

SMTIH,RICAHRDS,BAMBA,ROSSALL,CARROLL.GIBSON,B,SEEAR,PENSWICK,HIGHAM,NOBLET,DAWSON

SAT 31ST DEC

RUNCORN TOWN

1:00

A

1-1

174

16TH

30

NWCFL

GRIFFITH,CARROLL,BAMBA,HALL,ROSSALL,PENSWICK,RICO,THORNBER.DAWSON,B.SEEAR,HIGHAM

SAT 7TH JAN

CAMMELL LAIRD

15:00

H

2-0

70

13TH

33

NWCFL

GRIFFITH,CARROLL,HIGHAM,HALL, ROSSALL.PENSWICK,RICO,THORNBER,DAWSON,BAMBA,B.SEEAR

SAT 21ST JAN

MAINE ROAD

15:00

H

1-2

65

13TH

33

NWCFL

GRIFFITHS,CARROLL,HIGHAM,HALL,ROSSALL,ALEXANDER,RICO,MAHONEY,DAWSON,BAMBA,B.SEEAR

SAT 4TH FEB

ABBEY HEY

15:00

H

1-3

89

16TH

33

NWCFL

GRIFFTH,CARROLL,BMABA,HALL,ROSSALL,ALEXANDER,RICO,PENWSICK,DAWSON,NOBLET,HIGHAM

SAT 11TH FEB

1874 NORTHWICH

15:00

A

4-1

209

16TH

33

NWCFL

GRIFFTH,CARROLL,BAMBA,HALL,ROSSALL,ALEXANDER,SEEAR,PENWSICK,B.SEEAR,DAWSON,NOBLET,HIGHAM

SAT 18TH FEB

BARNTON

15:00

A

0-0

47

16TH

34

NWCFL

GRIFFITH,CARROLL,HIGHAM,HALL,ROSSALL,ALEXANDER,WATERS,PENSWICK,BAMBA,NOBLET,B,SEEAR

SAT 4TH MAR

AFC LIVERPOOL

15:00

A

4-2

120

16TH

34

NWCFL

GRIFFITH,CARROLL,HIGHAM,HALL,ROSSALL,ALEXANDER,WATERS,PENSWICK,BAMBA,NOBLET,B,SEEAR

SAT 11TH MAR

ABBEY HEY

15:00

A

3-2

75

16TH

34

NWCFL

SPEIGHT,CARROLL,HIGHAM,HALL,PENSWICK,ALEXANDER,WATERS,ROTHWELL.BAMBA,NOBLET,B.SEEAR

TUES 14TH MAR

WINSFORD UNITED

19:45

H

3-3

50

16TH

35

NWCFL

GRIFFITH,RICO,CARROLL,HALL,ROSSALL,ALEXANDER,WATERS,PENSWICK,MOXON,NOBLET,B,SEEAR

SAT 18TH MAR

WEST DIDSBURY

15:00

H

1-3

65

17TH

35

NWCFL

SPEIGHT,CARROLL,BAMBA,ROSSALL,MOORHEAD,B.SEEAR,WATERS,PENSWICK,MOXON,NOBLET,SMITH

SAT 25TH MAR

WINSFORD UNITED

15;00

A

4-2

145

17TH

35

NWCFL

GRIFFTH,RICO,BAMBA,ROTHWELL,ROSSALL,ALEXANDER,WATERS,PENSWICK,MOXON,NOBLET,B,SEEAR

SAT 8TH APR

CONGLETON TOWN

15:00

H

1-1

105

18TH

36

NWCFL

GRIFFITH,RICO,ALEXANDER.ROSSALL.MOORHEAD,HALL,WATERS,MOXON,BAMBA,NOBLET,ROTHWELL

SUN 16TH APR

ASHTON ATHLETIC

11;30

A

2-1

300

18TH

36

NWCFL

GRIFFITH,RICO,ROSSALL,MOORHEAD,ALEXANDER,HALL,ROTHWELL,NOBLET,WATERS,MOXON,CASEY

WED 19TH APR

AFC DARWEN

19:45

A

4-1

104

19TH

36

NWCFL

GRIFFITH,RICO,CARROLL,HALL,PENSWICK,,MOORHEAD,CASEY,THORNBER,MOXON.ALEXANDER,B.SEEAR

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

ATHERON COLLS

39

40

4

5

99

37

62

94

(3pm unless stated))

2

BOOTLE

39

29

2

8

128

49

79

89

GAMEWEEK 55 RESULTS

3

RUNCORN LINNETS

40

26

9

5

95

42

53

87

4

RUNCORM TOWN

38

26

5

7

103

42

61

83

5

1874 NORTHWICH

40

23

7

10

76

48

28

76

Hanley Town 0 Padiham 3

6

PADIHAM

38

19

6

13

78

66

12

63

Irlam 1 Ashton Athletic 2

7

IRLAM

39

17

9

13

57

65

-8

60

Nelson 2 Cammell Laird 1907 2

8

WEST DIDSBURY

38

17

7

14

89

78

11

58

Squires Gate 1 Congleton Town 1

9

HANLEY TOWN

40

15

11

14

79

68

11

56

Winsford United 0 Runcorn Town 1

10

ASHTON ATHLETIC

40

16

8

16

79

72

7

56

11

AFC LIVERPOOL

38

16

7

15

73

72

1

52

12

ABBEY HEY

39

15

7

17

62

68

-6

52

13

WINSFORD UNITED

38

14

7

17

72

78

-6

49

14

MAINE ROAD

39

13

9

17

66

66

0

48

Abbey Hey 1 1874 Northwich 1 AFC Darwen 0 Runcorn Linnets 3 Barnton 1 Barnoldswick Town 0

GAMEWEEK 56 RESULTS 1874 Northwich 1 Atherton Colls 2 AFC Darwen 1 Hanley Town 1 Barnoldswick Town 1 West Didsbury 3 Bootle 3 Nelson 1 Cammell Laird 1 New Mills 1 Congleton Town 1 Irlam 2

15

BARNOLDSWICK TOWN

37

12

8

17

61

66

-5

44

16

CONGLETON TOWN

40

10

11

19

66

88

-22

41

17

BARNTON

39

12

5

22

47

92

-45

41

18

AFC DARWEN

39

9

11

19

46

97

-51

38

19

SQUIRES GATE

40

9

9

22

74

101

-27

36

AFC Liverpool 1 Bootle 4 (Mon 3pm)

20

NEW MILLS

3

7

8

24

56

96

-37

29

Atherton Colls 5 AFC Darwen (Mon 11:30)

R

NELSON

39

5

11

23

54

80

-26

25

Irlam 0 Cammell Laird 1907 2 (Mon 3pm)

R

CAMMELL LAIRD 1907

40

3

11

2

37

129

-92

20

Runcorn Linnets 1 Maine Road 0 Ashton Athletic 2 Squires Gate 1 (Sun 11:30) Runcorn Town 4 Barnton 1 (sun 6:00) United 1 1874 Northwich 4 (Mon 3pm)

GAMEWEEK 56 RESULTS

Maine Road 2 Abbey Hey 2 (Mon 5:45pm) West Didsbury 3 Congleton 1 (Mon 2:45 PM) Nelson 2 Padiham 2 (Mon 3pm) New Mills 3 Barnoldswick Town0 (Mon 3pm)

FORM TABLE

Winsford United 1 1874 Northwich 4 (Mon 3pm)

P

W

D

L

PTS

FORM

AFC Darwen 4 Squires Gate 1 (Wed 7:45) Barnton 1 1874 Northwich 0 (Wed 7:45)

1

RUNCORN TOWN

6

5

1

0

15

WDWWWW

2

RUNCORN LINNETS

6

5

1

0

15

DWWWWW

3

ATHERTON COLLS

6

5

0

1

15

WWWWL

4

PADIHAM

6

4

1

1

13

DWWWWL

AFC Darwen v 1874 Northwich

5

WEST DIDSBURY

6

4

1

1

13

WWLDWW

Ashton Athletic v AFC Liverpool

6

ASHTON ATHLETIC

6

4

1

1

13

WLDWWW

7

BOOTLE

6

4

0

2

12

WWWLWL

Irlam v New Mills

8

CAMMELL LAIRD

6

3

0

3

12

WDDDWW

Nelson v Congleton Town

9

IRLAM

6

4

0

2

12

LWWLWW

Bootle 2 Abbey Hey 1 (Wed 7:45)

GAMEWEEK 57 FIXTURES Abbey Hey v Bootle

Barnton v Maine Road Hanley Town v Barnoldswick Town

Runcorn Town v Padiham Squires Gate v Runcorn Linnets

10

NEW MILLS

6

3

1

2

10

WDLWLW

West Didsbury v Cammell Laird 1907

11

1874 NORTHWICH

6

2

2

2

8

LWLWDD

Winsford United v Atherton Colls

THE LEAGUE HOSTED THEERE FIRST GROUND HOP WEEKEND The League's first ever groundhop weekend event got off to a good start today, with non-league enthusiasts travelling from all corners of the country to take in the three scheduled games.

The day began at Brocstedes Park, where a crowd of 297 watched Ashton Athletic beat Squires Gate 2-1 in a Premier Division game, that was played for the most part in heavy rain. None the less, both teams defied the conditions to serve up an entertaining game, that got off to a lively start with two goals in the opening nine minutes. Gate's Joe Noblet opened the scoring with a close range finish, but the lead was cancelled out seven minutes later when Danny Smith levelled for the Yellows with a goal from a similar range. The decisive goal arrived in the 63rd minute when Lee Vaughan stole in at the back post to side foot home the winner from a left wing cross. The groundhoppers then moved a couple of miles across Ashton-in-Makerfield to Edge Green Street, and Ashton Town failed to get the points they needed to move of the bottom of Division One, losing 2-0 to Stockport Town. The rain continued to fall for the early part of the game, but thankfully abated as the afternoon wore on, shortly before Ben Halfacre scored the first of his two goals for the visitors in front of 315 spectators. He opened his account by converting a penalty on the half hour after Adam Stubbs had been bowled over in the box, and then 12 minutes into the second half he produced a good finish to convert a right wing cross from Aaron Dwyer. The final game of the day took place at the Pavilions, where Runcorn Town remained in fourth place in the Premier Division but moved level on points with Bootle after a 4-1 win over Barnton in front of an attendance of 335. Once again, the game began with rain falling, and Craig Cairns opened the scoring for Town on 16 minutes, when he successfully converted his ninth penalty of the season. Mark Reed then added a second goal for Town two minutes into the second half when he fired home a loose ball from 15 yards. Cairns then scored his second and Town's third goal in the 55th minute, beating Barnton keeper Matt Conkie with a cool lob, before former Town player Jason McShane reduced the arrears with a neatly placed curling shot into the bottom corner of the net. However, the best goal of the game arrived 14 minutes from time, when Reed scored Town's fourth with a beautifully executed bicycle at the far post from a right wing cross. It was a fine way to round off a good day of action, and one of the many impressed onlookers was Talksport Radio reporter and non-league enthusiast Tony Incenzo, who was happy to share his thoughts on the day events at full time. 'I think the day has been a great success', he said. 'I've been to all three games, the combined attendance is nearly 1000 which is fantastic for Step 5 and 6, and everybody has enjoyed themselves despite the weather. 'What your grounds have had is plenty of cover and plenty of seating, and good facilities. The football has been very good and very competitive, and the last goal from Runcorn Town (scored by Mark Reed), the scissor kick, was a fantastic goal. If that had been scored in the Premiership they would be showing it over and over again on TV all week. 'So I think everyone can take that moment away as a memory of the weekend, but the whole thing has been very well organised. 'The club's programmes have been very good, full of interesting reading material, and the clubs have done really well in organising the tea bars, programme sales, and raffles and I hope all the clubs have made a good profit from it'.

Day two of the League's Groundhop weekend thankfully avoided the rain that struck all three games on Sunday, and those who attended all three games were treated to a total of 14 goals.

Six of those came in the opening game of the day, an 11 am kick off at Atherton Collieries, and the home side took a step closer to the title with a 5-1 win over AFC Darwen. In front of a crowd of 478, a Jamie Edwards own goal at the back post gave Colls a great start after just three minutes, and they doubled their tally in the 20th minute when Jordan Cover added a second from the penalty spot after he had been tripped in the box. Vincent Bailey added a third four minutes into the second half with a shot from the edge of the box, (49), and Jordan Cover scored Colls fourth when he volleyed in from Gareth Peet's left wing cross. Cover completed his hat trick with another successfully converted penalty, but Darwen kept plugging away and were rewarded with a consolation goal ten minutes from time, with a neat move setting up Nicholas Hepple for a cool finish with ten minutes remaining. Game two was at West Didsbury & Chorlton, and although the coach carrying the groundhoppers encountered some difficulty in negotiating the narrow streets leading up to the Recreation Ground, the problem was overcome and the visitors were soon in the ground to watch West win 3-1 against Congleton Town. The game was watched by 332 spectators and was goalless until the 70th minute until Nia Bayunu broke the deadlock for West with a close range finish, but Callum Gardner pulled Congleton back on level terms with a fine volley from a right wing cross eight minutes from time. But West weren't finished, and after Saul Henderson's glancing header from a corner kick put them ahead a minute from the end, a fine solo effort from Carlos Mendes Gomes wrapped up a 3-1 win. From there, the final match of the Groundhop weekend took place two miles away, as Maine Road hosted Abbey Hey in a South Manchester derby clash. The sun was out over Chorlton, and an extensive range of Maine Road merchandise including old first team jerseys and programmes were proving popular with many in the attendance of 259.A neat piece of opportunism from Matthew Morgan gave Maine Road an 18th minute lead when he pounced on indecision in the Abbey Hey defence to pounce on a loose ball to open the scoring, and he added a second goal six minutes into the second half to put Road in the driving seat. But Matthew Cook and Ashford Blake struck in the final quarter of the game to earn Abbey a point from a 2-2 draw. Groundhop UK's Chris Benezai, who organised the event in conjunction with League officials and clubs, said he was very happy with the way that the weekend had gone. 'It's been very good for a first hop', he said. 'It always takes a while for a league to settle into a groundhop and it's been a very good start. 'The clubs have been very accommodating and helpful, there's been one or two little things we can iron out for the future, and the people who have travelled on the coach for all the games have loved it. 'The good thing is that there have been nice interesting grounds to see, and we have liked the way that the clubs have put themselves out. 'Some of the welcomes we have had have been of the highest calibre, and the match programmes have been very good too. The clubs have done us proud. 'We will be taking a look at doing another similar hop around this League in two years time, but we will also be having a look at next season, with maybe another smaller hop weekend at some point, just to keep our hand in'.

WE’VE MET BEFORE? RUNCORN LINNETS 2 SQUIRES GATE 0 SATURDAY 16TH APRIL 2016 The homeside started the game as Gate would have expected. They had plenty of early chances to get the ball forward quickly whilst Gate looked organised and kept the threat from Linnets to a minimum. Gates first chance of the game came after 13 minutes. Jake Higham did well down the left hand side and found the run of Tanser, but his shot was wide of the post. Linnets best chance of the half came after 21 minutes, striker Steve Jones curling the ball narrowly wide of the post from outside the box. Linnets again threatened Gates goal but a after a six yard box scramble, Gate finally managed to clear the ball. Linnets would open the scoring just before the half hour mark. Gate let down after switching off allowing Steve Jones to score from a corner, the striker not closed down quick enough. The goal a harsh one on a hard working Gate who didn't deserve to be 1-0 down at half time.

Ryan Tanser had the chance to level for Gate after the break. He used his pace to drive at the Linnets defence and run clear. His shot was saved a spilled by Porter in net but Porter reacted quickest to collect the ball before Tanser could react. Perhaps the turning point in the game when the home side were awarded a penalty. Joe Noblet harshly penalised for using his arms to jump and head the ball away. But Gate would be saved when Linnets defender Michael White fired the ball over the bar from the spot! Soon after that Steve Jones tried his luck again, this time from outside the box. The striker firing over on the volley direct from the goal kick. Gate would again be left frustrated after the referee awarded another soft penalty. This time Josh Westwood was penalised for a trip after Ryan Cox turned around him. This time White would make no mistake and chose the opposite side to put Linnets 2-0 up.

Gates best chance came on the hour mark. Billy McKenna with a golden chance after Josh Westwood burst forward fro defence. But McKenna was closed down quickly by Porter to deny the winger. Ben Fletcher did well to deny Ryan Cox on 75 minutes with a superb

SQUIRES GATE 2 RUNCORN LINNETS 3 SATURDAY 30TH APRIL 2016 Gate set the tone for the game in the first five minutes of the game showing great urgency to win the ball back all over the pitch. Gate had two early free kicks and it was from the second one, in the second minute, which they should have gone ahead from. The free kick from gates own half found the head of Nathan Trout. He knocked it down to Riley who jinked past his man but his shot was easily saved. Manager Danny Penswick has to bring himself on after 10 minutes as Mike Hall pulled up. Gate were playing some great football with Linnets looking nervy at the back Linnets had two half chances when first Kurt Sherlock's cross went out of play then Kyle Hamid volleyed straight into Ben Fletcher's arms. Linnets then put the pressure on Gate after some over playing from Gates back line. Gate trying to play out instead of clearing the ball but the pressure ended when Linnets sliced the ball over the bar. Jamie Gibson had Gates best chance of the first half just before half time. The winger did well to find himself free but his shot was tame into Porter's arms with Riley waiting for the pull back at the back post.

The second half saw the visitors open the scoring just five minutes in. Defender Michael White free at the back post to fire into the top of the net. Gate had cleared the ball off the line but White was first to fire into the net. Kurt Sherlock had the chance to put Linnets further in front after 61 minutes. But at the critical moment he fired over the bar, much to the disappointment of the Linnets crowd. Just three minutes after Linnets would find the net again. Kyle Hamid finding space at the back post to poke past Fletcher and put Linnets 2-0 up. What followed was a mad four minutes. First Gate equalised after Porter in net dropped Joe Noblet's free kick and Jamie Gibson fried home. Then Linnets went up the other end and scored before Gate replied instantly. Jamie Gibson again finding the net after good work by Stayte to beat his man on the wing his cross found Gibson to head past Porter and grab his and Gates second of the game. With Gate trailing they threw plenty of men forward including both centre backs but just couldn't find a way through. A late chance and probably

TODAY’S MATCH SPONSORS:

GATE CLUB CAPTAIN RICO AND SONS BALIEY

Squires Gate are prodded to welcome Gate Captain son Bailey Richards he just recently turned two and will lead out gate wit his dad for today’s Game.

He also lead out gate for there game vs Ashton Athletic on Easter Sunday.

Bailey is a big Liverpool Fan like his dad but we’re hoping we can rub some passion for non league on him in the future, and turn him blue.

If you like to be a sponsors for any off ours games for next season get in touch with us !!

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

LIVERPOOL RUNS THE TABLE

1905

On 16 April 1905, Liverpool secured their second league title. It was the first time in league history that a newlypromoted team won the top flight.

Liverpool won their first league title in 1901, but three seasons later, they finished the season as the seventeenth -placed team out of eighteen and were relegated to the Second Division. But they returned at the first opportunity and were back in the top flight for the 1904-05 season. Their return started poorly, with three losses in their first three matches. They turned things around quickly, however, winning twelve of their next fifteen to reach the top of the table by mid-December. Their good form continued into the second half of the season, with Preston North End in hot pursuit. At the start of the day on 16 April, Preston were five points back with three games left to play. Liverpool were away to Bolton, where they lost 3-2. But fortunately for them, Preston also lost, falling 20 at Sunderland. That result put the title out of Preston's reach and made Liverpool the champions.

1922

THIS IS SPARTAK

On 18 April 1922, Moscow Sport Circle expanded into football. Now known as Spartak Moscow, it is Russia's most successful club, with twelve Soviet championships and a record nine Russian Premier League titles.

Moscow Sport Circle was founded in 1921 by Ivan Artemyev and Nikolai Starostin, who quickly turned the new club's attention to football. They changed their name to Spartak Moscow in 1934 and won their first league title two years later, led by manager Mikhail Koslov and top scorer Georgy Glazkov. They won two more titles in 1938 and 1939, then took six more in the 1950s and '60s. By the time the Soviet Union disbanded, they had a total of twelve, second only to Dynamo Kyiv's thirteen. They then dominated the new Russian league in the 1990s, winning seven titles between 1992 and 1999 (the only one they missed was 1995). They also have six titles as champions of the interim Commonwealth of Independent States. Along the way, their rosters included players like Nikita Simonyan, their all-time top scorer, with 133 goals between 1949 and 1959. They won their last league title in 2001, but remain constant challengers.

MAYBE THIS IS WHY THEY DON’T WIN IT MORE OFTEN On 20 April 2011, Real Madrid won the Copa del Rey for the first time in eighteen years, then proceeded to destroy it by dropping it in the path of their parade bus.

Before then, Madrid's last tournament title came in 1993, when they beat Real Zaragoza and they last appeared in a final in 2004 (when they lost to Zaragoza).

They faced El Clásico rivals Barcelona in the 2011 final, having gone winless against them in the league, with a 1-1 home draw and a crushing 5-0 away loss. The two teams were also scheduled to meet one week later in the Champions League semifinals. Playing before a crowd of 55,000 at Valencia's Estadio Mestalla, the final remained scoreless through the first 90 minutes, due largely to the stellar play of of the two goalkeepers, Madrid's Iker Casillas and Barca's José Pinto. But in the first period of extra time, Madrid forward Ángel di María sent in a cross for his teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo, to head home in the 105th minute for the day's only goal.

Unfortunately for Real Madrid, they did not get long to savor the cup. As the team rode an open-topped bus into Madrid to celebrate the win, with the parade extending into the early hours of the next morning, center back Sergio Ramos dropped the trophy over the front end of the bus. It landed directly in front of the moving bus, which proceeded to run over the cup. The trophy--the eleventh one in Copa del Rey

history--shattered into several pieces, but Madrid soon received a replacement to display at their stadium.

2011

FINAL GAME

—— SAT ——

29 APR 15:00

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

STATISTICALLY SPEAKING

12

WIN

1

10

HOME WIN

0

8

AWAY WIN

1

0

DEFEAT

14

2

HOME DEFEAT

4

0

AWAY DEFEAT

10

24

NO SCORE DRAW

0

3

SCORE DRAW

10

0

CONCEDING 1+ GOALS

5

0

SCORING 1+ GOALS

2

8

CLEAN SHEETS

0

11

BACK TO BACK WINS

1

GOALS

74

95 CLEAN SHEETS

4 CONCEDED

101

42 AVERAGE GOALS PER GAME

0.5

RUNCORN LINNETS: 10 SEASON RECORD

ON THIS DAY

GATE DROP INTO RELEGATION MIRE AFTER LOSING COMMON EGDE DERBY SQUIRES GATE 1 AFC BLACKPOOL 3 MONDAY 21ST APRIL 2014

Derby day as Squires Gate drop into the relegation zone.

It was the away side's frontline who had the better of the first 45, their constant movement and vision led to the first goal in the 13th minute. A ball in from the right hand side of the box met the foot of Mitch Newsham to finish well past Dave Rogerson.

The opening goal seemed to liven up the game for both sides with efforts from both sides in what was a tight end to the first half.

As the second half got under way it was clear that Gate were up for a battle. As the clock wound down Gate had several chances to equalise in the game. Chances falling to strikers Washburn and Haley but a combination of good saves and bad misses meant the game stayed 1-0 to the away side. But after all Gates’ hard work, it was the away sides clinical strike force who again prevailed, Mitch Newsham again scoring on the 17th minute. The home side looked to change the game, introduced Charles Orji from the bench and it was the sub who scored, what would only be a consolation goal. Jack Sowerby weaving through the Blackpool defence found the feet of Orji to slot past the Blackpool keeper in the 78thminute mark. Gate’s day was made worse when on the 85th minute when Ben Singleton rifled a free kick past the helpless Dave Rogerson making it Squires Gate 1-3 AFC Blackpool. The loss for Gate leaves them sitting in the bottom two on goal difference. Gate’s last game of the season is against in form 6th place Ashton Athletic away on the 26th April with a 3 o'clock kick off.

Ellis

Dan

Bournemouth v Middlesbrough

3:2

2:0

Hull v Watford

2:1

3:1

Swansea Stoke

2:1

0:1

West Ham v Everton

0:5

1:2

Brentford v QPR

1:1

3:1

Bristol City v Barnsley

1:2

0:2

MK Dons v Sheffield United

3:2

0:4

Port Vale v Bolton

1:3

1:1

DOUBLE POINTS

10 POINTS = CORRECT SCORE; 6 POINTS = CORRECT RESULT

Chelsea v Tottenham

2:1

1:2

Huddersfield v Fulham

2:1

1:2

Boreham Wood v Gateshead

2:2

0:2

CURRENT STANDINGS:

2015/16 CHAMPION: BEN FLETCHER

Name

Team

Role

Pts

30

Steve Leader

Squires Gate

Member

19

1

Steve Fraser

AFC Liverpool

Supporter

39

31

Matt Britton

West Didsbury

Fan

18

2

Peter Murray

Abbey Hey

Supporter

38

32

Brian Penswick

Squires Gate

Assistant Manager

18

3

Seydou Bamba

Squires Gate

Player

37

33

Mark Ashmore

Squires Gate

Media Manager

18

4

Jay Hayden

Squires Gate

Programme Editor

34

34

Mark Riding

1874 Northwich

Supporter

18

5

David Knowles

Nelson

Supporter

33

35

Ryan Brown

Nelson

Supporter

18

6

Scott Taylor

Winsford United

Player

33

36

Sarah Hindle

AFC Darwen

Secretary

18

7

Bill White

Squires Gate

Member

31

37

Ben Stanton

New Mills

Supporter

18

8

Spencer Leader

Squires Gate

Member

31

38

Peter

Congleton Town

Programme Editor

18

9

Brian Addison

Squires Gate

Groundsman

30

39

Danny Braid

Squires Gate

Member

17

10

Ryan Hibbert

Congleton Town

Player

30

40

Paul Stanton

New Mills

Supporter

17

11

Peter Harlow

Groundhopper

28

41

Timothy Baker

1874 Northwich

Supporter

17

12

Paul Carroll

Squires Gate

Player

28

42

Mark Thornber

Squires Gate

Player

16

13

Alan Lowe

Atherton LR

Supporter

27

43

Daniel Hayden

Squires Gate

Editor

15

44

Robert Handley

Barnton

Supporter

15

14

Matt Farnworth

Ashton Athletic

Player

27

45

Colin Worrall

Abbey Hey

Supporter

15

15

Mark Buchan

Conway Bay

Striker

26

46

Paul Metcalfe

Chorley

Supporter

14

16

Ray Richards

Squires Gate

Member

26

47

Jack Owen

1874 Northwich

Supporter

14

17

Amy Stanton

New Mills

Supporter

25

48

Andy Smith

Abbey Hey

Player

14

18

John Booth

Hyde United

Supporter

25

49

Callum Waters

1874 Northwich

Supporter

13

19

Emile Anderson

Atherton Collieries

Supporter

25

50

Callum Kerr

Cammell Laird

Player

12

20

Colin Marrison

Handsworth Parramore

Player

25

51

Patrick Burke

Cammell Laird

Member

12

21

Albert Cooper

Squires Gate

Photographer

24

52

Lee Rooney

Atherton Colls

Supporter

12

22

Jason

Winsford United

Supporter

24

53

Jake Higham

Squires Gate

Defender

12

23

Russell Cox

Wycombe Wanderer

Groundhopper

24

54

Paul Speed

AFC Liverpool

Player

12

24

Joe Noble

Squires Gate

Midfielder

24

55

Robin Squelch

Cheadle Town

Supporter

11

25

Steve Palmer

Squires Gate

Member

24

56

Neil McGuinness

Nelson

Nelson Media

11

26

Martin Fallon

Runcorn Town

Committee

23

57

Matthew Murphy

AFC Darwen

Supporter

11

27

Steve McLellan

AFC Fylde

Photographer

21

58

Joe Griffith

Squires Gate

Goalkeeper

9

28

Danny Penswick

Squires Gate

Manager

21

59

Glyn Davies

Runcorn Town

Supporter

9

29

Gary Langley

NWCFL

Committee

20

60

Gary Johansen

City Of Liverpool

Supporter

6

FOOTBALL TRIVIA In a new feature test your football Trivia with these 15 questions and also quiz your friends.

1 What former Italian international managed Sunderland 2 Which English club singed Cheick Tiote from FC Twente 3 Who was the manager of MK Dons when they won 4 What island is linked with Arsenal Player 5 What club did Real Madrid sign David Beckham from in 6 From which top Flight club did Roma sign Thomas Ver7 What country does Lomana Lua Lua Played For 8 What decade features on Bordeaux badge this season 9 What team did Robert Di Matteo manged back in 2009 – 10 Where did Southampton sign Dusan Tadic from in 2014 11 Who did Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink win the league two 12 Where did Gareth Bale play when he earned his 50th 13 The 1900’s feature on which Ligue one club 14 What Italian team did Arsenal Goalkeeper Wojciech 15 What country did Stijn Stijnen play for 1980’s

8.

DR Congo

7.

Barcelona

6.

Man United

5.

Aaron Ramsey

4.

Paul Ince

3.

Newcastle

2.

Paolo Di Canio

1.

15 Belgium 14 As Roma 13 Bastia 12 Tottenham 11 Burton Albion 10 FC Twente 9. West Brom

BRAIN TEASER Can you name these football teams that have got themselves in a bit of a scramble?

RISTOYBMNGW NRBATE FTOREEGSNRE HDAETGSEA LEWGINL FOOTTANERLNW QUEADRUNTIYOT ATLEESIGH CASCFLEDLIEM

FINAL GAME NEW MILLS CHURH LANE Saturday 29th April 2017

THE TEAMS

v SQUIRES GATE FOOTBALL CLUB

RUNCORN LINNETS

FOOTBALL CLUB

Manager: Daniel Penswick

(GK) Joseph GRIFFITH (GK) Josh WOODS Andrew RICHARDS

Manager: Michael Ellison

TODAY’S MATCH OFFICIALS

(GK) Tom HUNT (GK) Reece AIREY (GK) Matthew HOMLMES

Paul CARROLL

REFEREE

Kieran NOLAN

Jacob HIGHAM

Daniel Hitchell

Chris LAWTON Zac ALEY

Charlie WATERS

David ROSSALL Ben FISHWICK Jamie GIBSON Mike HALL

ASSISTANTS Graeme Kearny Gary Donaldson

Michael SIMPSON Danny MCKENNA Aaron MORRIS Tom HARDWICK

Joe NOBLET

Paul JEWELL

Ben SEEAR

Adam WADE

Anthony STAYTE

Kyle HAMID

Mark THORNBER

Kris HOLT

Danny PENSWICK

Danny O’BRIEN

Corey M0ORHEAD

Ronnie MCCARTHY

Connor SMITH

Stuart WELLSTEAD

Ryan TANSER

Bev BUREY

Ryan STAYTE

Anthony HICKEY

Seydou BAMBA

Mark HOUGHTON

Paul ALEXANDER

Paul SHANLEY

MAX ROTHWELL

Freddie POTTER

Tarren MOXON Matthew MAHONEY

FINAL GAME NEW MILLS CHURH LANE Saturday 29th April 2017