43 Ramsbottom United v West Didsbury

rammy news v WEST DIDSBURY & CHORLTON 11-11-14

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tony cunningham and the wonderful world of non-league football Welcome to the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium, and a special welcome to our match officials and our visitors from West Didsbury and Chorlton. e south Manchester club has had it’s struggles to gain a foothold on the pyramid, but now that they have finally managed to overcome the red tape, they have acclimatised themselves well and are currently members of the NWCFL Premier Division, a league we know plenty about!

It is perhaps a good job that the next two matches offer us an alternative to the stresses of league competition. Having had a superb October, winning the EvoStik Premier Division Club of the Month award, any thoughts of complacency have certainly been replaced with a knowledge that football at this level still requires some adjusting to. We were fortunate to salvage a point against a Workington side that, in my opinion, looked the most organised that we have come across to date. We then followed that with a performance at Halesowen that was described to me in terms that I cannot repeat here! e next two games offer us an opportunity to go in search of some silverwear, with the final of the Lancashire FA Trophy being played

at the home of Bolton Wanderers, whilst the FA Trophy climaxes at Wembley. Not bad incentives for the lads to go all out for a sharp turnaround in this sudden dip.

We will, of course, not take West Didsbury and Chorlton lightly. If we do, we may finish up a little like Exeter City last Friday!

HELPING HAND It’s good to see the Supporters Club encouraging anyone who can, to come down to the ground to help out with the many tasks that need to be taken on an on-going basis.

It’s opened my eyes, since becoming Secretary, as to just how much needs to be done behind the scenes to run a football club at this level. e amount of work that Harry puts in, along with his trusted helpers, is amazing, and a burden much too large for just a handful of volunteers. I enjoy the administration side of things, which I mainly do in my “spare time” in the evenings, although I must state that even if I had time during the day, I doubt I would be much use in the practical side of things. I once offered to keep a relation’s garden tidy whilst they were away for some time, but when they returned they were aghast to see plenty of weeds but not as many flowers as when they had left.

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The Workington defence being very well organised

At one of my former clubs, I volunteered to paint the dressing room doors, only to be met by the quizzical remarks from the secretary wanting to know who had left a painting of South Africa on one of the doors!

So whilst I am quite at home at a desk, painting and gardening (indeed any kind of DIY) is definitely not my strong point.

But for those who feel they can spare a little time, it really would be appreciated, as it would help reduce the ridiculous work-load currently valiantly undertaken by those previously referred to. On top of that, the feeling of “belonging” to the Rams would be even greater. A win-win situation then!

NON-LEAGUE Richard commented in the last programme about the word “Non-League” and why it is a term used for so many clubs and leagues.

I am able to answer the query, and whilst accepting that it does seem rather strange to

call clubs who play in leagues “non-league”, that’s not quite the reasoning. ere is a word missing in the description, and that word is “Football”. Non-League actually refers to all clubs who are not members of the “Football League” – hence in the fuller term “Non-Football League”. It was used quite simply to differentiate between clubs playing within the Football League and all those playing outside, in the various leagues up and down the country.

Which actually has me thinking. As the Football League now begins with the Championship, and extends through Leagues One and Two, we could make a case out for all clubs playing in the Premier League to also be referred to as “Non-League”. Wonder how the Man U’s, Chelseas and Arsenals would feel about that?!

Enjoy your non-league football!

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Late Sunday evening we were surprised and disappointed to learn that after fifteen years in professional and non-league football, Joel Pilkington has decided to hang up his boots.

Back at the start of the 2009 season Joel joined the Rams as Johnno and Bernard’s first signing, and he has since played over 220 matches for the club. I’m sure we speak for everyone when we say that his skill, commitment and professionalism will be sorely missed.

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glenn

Good evening and welcome to the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium for this evening’s Lancashire County Cup game against West Didsbury & Chorlton. We welcome everybody involved with our visitors -hope you all enjoy your visit to Rammy and have a safe journey home later. is evening gives us the opportunity to get back on the horse, as the saying goes, after what was both a dissapointing result and performance with our first defeat in eight games at the hands of a very hardworking Halesowen side on Saturday.

After our recent run we hope Saturday was just a bad day at the office. At this level if one or two lads have an off day then you really struggle, so when six or seven don’t reach the levels they regularly achieve then you really are up against it, and to be fair it doesn't happen that often.

I must mention the traveling support which again on Saturday was fantastic. It truly is a massive lift for everyone to hear our fans in fine voice. Its a shame we couldn't get the right result for you but your reputation is growing - even the Halesowen twitter feed commented on how good our following is.

Saturday sees us travel over to Nantwich in another massive F.A. Trophy game. As a squad we really want to progress in this competition so hopefully there will be another big following and you can cheer us onto victory.

So onto tonight. We are expecting a keenly fought contest in what should be an entertaining fixture against decent opposition - I’m sure you'll all enjoy the game and hopefully a victory which puts into the next round.

Enjoy the game

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grant shenton shouting from between the sticks First things first - Lee Gaskell got a nasty knock on the head at Halesowen. Was it as bad as it seemed, and do you know how he is?

Lee took an elbow to the head which resulted in him getting a nasty gash. He went to hospital after the game to get it treated. Just a couple of stitches I would think, nothing too serious to worry about.

It was a really tough game against a strong team. How did it feel to you?

I think the conditions were a leveller and the playing surface perhaps didn't suit us as a team, but we won a league playing on pitches like that in the counties so we can't put too much blame on that. ey seemed to want it that little bit more than us from the kick off maybe it was down to the lack of warming up facilities but we didn't quite get started quick enough. Now we move on as it’s a long season.

A bit of a change of formation, with the wide players being sacrificed in favour of some more strength. It's hard to tell if it was working, as Gaskell went off so early - what were your thoughts on the starting lineup, what we were trying to achieve, and whether it seemed to be working.

e gaffer decided to make changes due to the size and condition of the pitch. Every player in the changing room knows the lads brought in have as high a quality as those they were replacing. I think the gaffers made the changes to battle a notoriously physical team and if Gaskell would have stayed on then who knows what would have happened. As a player I have 100% confidence in both mangers’ decisions. I don't think we would be competing in this league with out tough decisions made by them. And I speak for all the lads in the changing room on that.

Workington last Tuesday were also a strong and organised side, albeit with little flare or creativity. ese are the kinds of teams that we always used to struggle against and face less often nowadays. Do you think this week's blip is simply down to that?

You could be right, but I think the reason we remember the games like Tuesday and Saturday is because of the high standard we have set as a team and as a club -we can live up to that because we have the talent. In August if we would have been offered 4th in league come November we would have taken it. I'm confident we can rough it with these types of teams so I don't fear we lack the ability to beat those who play that way.

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With the pressure mounting on us to maintain our position in the league is it nice, or just a distraction to have a couple of cup games on the bounce?

Playing games is good whether it's cup or league. winning becomes a habit so two cup wins will be good to takes us into the next league game.

So I hoping for a couple of good cup runs.

Personally I think that tonight's opposition will prove tougher than Nantwich on Saturday, due to the different styles of football and the likelihood that West Didsbury and Chorlton will be out to prove themselves. What do you reckon will be the tougher tie?

It's an element of the unknown tonight so could prove to be a difficult game whereas on Saturday we knew what they were about and how to approach that game. ere aren't many easy games in the cup so we will treat both games with the same level of professionalism.

If either game goes to penalties, are you allowed to take all five?

If it goes to pens my hand will be raised high. But all five? I wish I'd back my self every time but all lads will just roll their eyes as they are getting bored of my “I'm best striker in changing room” story. at being said I'd much prefer to save a few rather than scoring one.

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Even Robbo struggled to ďŹ nd a way through

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1-1

e Harry Williams Riverside Stadium 4th November2014 Att: 250 Rammy Goals: Hulme (82) Workington Goals: Allison (57)

At the final whistle the home crowd drafted away content with the thought that this was very much a point gained rather than two lost against a team who gave by far the most classy ,compact and complete performance that the Rams have come up against so far this season. e Rams were not at their best. Like Les Dawson at the piano playing all the right notes but in the wrong order they struggled from first to last to bring any harmony or cohesion to their game but it is to their immense credit that where has in times past once behind they might have capitulated to a team of this quality hey battled to grab the point in the dying moments.

Both teams set up in similar ways and quick into the tackle all around the pitch so it is not surprising that the flow of the game was sporadic and chances few and far between at either end. e nearest either team came to scoring in a largely uneventful first half was when a snap shot on to the bar caught Grant Shenton unawares and he was fortunate to see the rebound put wide. Apart from that with both sets of fullbacks dominant neither team was able to get behind the defence or runners beyond the front men and while the Rams had the majority of the possession little came of it. at pattern continued in to the second half and what few illusions remained that ultimately this might be another comfortable evening in the Riverside armchair were blown away on the hour when Scott Allison ghosted in on a header back and pushed the ball past a stranded Shenton into the corner of the net.

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Cedric politely asks Lee Pugh for the ball

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1-1

e Harry Williams Riverside Stadium 4th November2014 Att: 250 Rammy Goals: Hulme (82) Workington Goals: Allison (57)

e managerial reponse from the Rams was immediate with Lee Gaskell and Jon Robinson on to see if they could muster a repeat of the Whitby heroics.

Workington however stiffened their resolve, pushed up into an even higher defensive line and marshaled and lead superbly by player manager Gavin Skelton prevented the Rams from building any sustained momentum. Jordan Hulme cutting in from the left saw his strong shot beaten away by Jonny Jameson but the Workington keeper was otherwise rarely troubled and looking assured apart from some hairy moments caused by his own poor clearances.

Sheer willpower from the Rams eventually forced the visitors on to the back foot. With 7 minutes remaining Jordan Hulme met a Lee Gaskell header from a Tom Williams corner at the far post and slid the ball in from close range but at the most acute of angles for the equaliser. ere were thoughts of an improbable win but with the visitors looking just as likely to score again on the break the final whistle brought a sense of relief.Come the end of the season and with the Rams now up to third this result if not the performance may well be seen of not inconsiderable importance.

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A lesson in how to defend - Workington put ten men behind the ball

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west didsbury & chorlton West Didsbury and Chorlton AFC have come a long way in their 105 years since 1908 when the club was founded as Christ Church A.F.C. by Mr R F Hartley, a Sunday School Superintendent at the church on Princess Parkway, West Didsbury.

West played friendlies at first and then in the Manchester Alliance League until the First World War 1914. After the War the club joined the Lancashire and Cheshire League for the 1920/21 season and had to change its name to West Didsbury AFC, as that League did not permit a name suggesting association with any other body. e club was placed in Divisions 1 and A, staying in the top flight for 25 seasons. e first honours were double runners up in Div One and Rhodes Cup in 1922/23, and the club remained in the L+C League until 2006, winning many honours and providing four League Presidents along the way. e club changed its name in 2003 to reflect the new location in Chorlton and the was elected to the Manchester League in 2006. In 2007/8 West won its first Manchester League silverware lifting the Murray Shield in the last game of the centenary year. at team was the nucleus of the previously successful junior team and the following season 2008/09 West just missed promotion to the Premier Division and again reached the Murray Shield Final.

With a new management team led by Andy Nelson, 2009/10 was very successful and honours spread throughout the club. e first team won the Murray Shield (the third consecutive year in the final) and was league runners-up.

who are ya?

In 2010/2011 the first team won the Manchester League First Division title in style with a fantastic 65 points out of 72 possible. is ranks as one of the highest points totals per game in Manchester League history dating back over a century.

Further improvements saw floodlights erected in 2011 to meet FA requirements and West competed in the FA Vase for the first time in 2011-2012 as a Step seven club.

Election to the NWCFL followed in June 2012 and the club had an incredible first season winning the Division One Trophy, finishing in 3rd position after an amazing run in during March and April to secure promotion and also winning a guaranteed FA Cup place.

2013-14 promises to be another testing season as the club adjusts to life in the NWCFL Premier Division, improves its spectator facilities, adds new grass pitches and youth teams as part of its development plan, and aims for long term consolidation and stability at this level whilst remaining as a volunteer run, ‘not for profit’ club. e first few months of the season have been ‘full on’ with two games a week most weeks since mid July and the same intensity and frequency of games in the NWCFL Premier Division since 3rd August. Another historic milestone was the 2-0 victory over Abbey Hey in the club’s first ever appearance in the FA Cup followed by a 2-1 first ever FA Vase victory at NCEL Rossington in mid September.

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RICK GLEAVE (Midfield) - A 25 year old Electrical Engineer who began his career at Manchester City, and has since played at Blackburn Rovers, Rochdale, Formby, Leigh Genesis and most recently Curzon Ashton. For Liverpool he plays Futsal, which is very much like five-a-side but with a smaller ball. is makes him a tricky midfielder who is very capable in tight play situations.

Photos courtesy of John Churchman

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CHRIS McDONAGH (Forward) - Rammy fans will remember Chris McDonagh from his time at Curzon Ashton. It’s almost exactly a year since his jaw was broked in a collision with the Salford City keeper, requiring surgery and a metal plate to be inserted into his face. His former clubs include Bolton Wanderers, Leigh RMI, Woodley Sports and Mossley. He’s currently banging in a decent number of goals for West Didsbury & Chorlton, and is a big threat.

SCOTT MASON (Midfield) - A teacher now in his second season for the club after starting out at Bolton Wanderers and playing for Leigh, Cammell Laids and Irlam after a short break from the game. Normally a defender, Mason was asked to play in midfield for West Didsbury and Chorlton, and has really made the position his own.

STEVE SETTLE (Defender) - Steve is 31-year-old assistant manager and utility player with experience of playing at a number of Evostik clubs, including Witton, Mossley, Curzon Ashton and Bamber Bridge, as well as time at Leigh. Since joining the club last season, Steve has been learning the managerial ropes and is looking to ultimately further his career off the pitch. On the pitch he is a ‘jack of all trades’ who is comfortable in just about any position.

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back in 2009 rammy v nelson in the Lancashire Cup Richard has kindly loaned us a stack of Rammy United programmes going back through his award-winning reign as programme editor. While flicking through these we came across the Lancashire Cup programme for Rammy v Nelson back on 22nd September 2009. We’d just beaten Bacup 3-0 in front of a bumper 93 crowd up at Cow Toot Lane, and were a month on from the infamous 5-0 defeat at the hands of Newcastle Town - the first game for new young management duo Bernard Morley and Anthony Johnson (a defeat which still reigns supreme as our worst under their stewardship!). e team-sheet lists among its number the recent signings of Joel Pilkington, Phil Dean, Jon Robinson and Andy Dawson as well as club stalwarts such as Barry Shuttleworth and John Blackley. Someone called Anthony Johnson was top scorer, with 40-year-old non-league legend Barry Massey still limping his way through matches for the Rams.

I’ve never been a fan of those ‘25 years ago today’ features that you get in football programmes up and down the country - mainly because I’ve never heard of any of the players - but this programme is a real gem, and I’d like to take the liberty of reproducing some bits of it here.

I hope you find it interesting.

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tony’s teasers 2.

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Before changing to Cantilever park, what was the name of Warrington Town’s ground?

Whch team knocked Morecambe out of the FA Cup? What is the suďŹƒx of Norton & Stockton?

Who has been named as the new top man at the Football Conference?

Name the manager placed on “gardening leave� by Lincoln City What colours do Chelmsford City play in?

Which club plays at Queensgate?

What is so unusual about Q7’s answer?

Who is the manager of Goole AFC? Which Welsh club plays at î Łe Rock?

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ANSWERS: 1. Loushers lane 2. Dover Athletic 3. Ancients 4. Brian Barwick 5. Gary Simpson 6. Maroon and white 7. Scarborough 8. It’s in Bridlington not Scarborough! 9. Curtis Woodhouse 10. Cefn Druids

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Sat 16th Aug Tues 19th Aug Sat 23rd Aug Mon 25th Aug Sat 30th Aug Tues 2nd Sept Sat 6th Sept Wed 10th Sept Sat 13th Sept Tues 16th Sept Sat 20th Sept Tues 23rd Sept Sat 27th Sept Sat 4th Oct Sat 11th Oct Sat 18th Oct Tues 21st Oct Sat 25th Oct Sat 1st Nov Tues 4th Nov Sat 8th Nov Tues 11th Nov Sat 15th Nov Tues 18th Nov Sat 22nd Nov Tues 25th Nov Sat 29th Nov Sat 6th Dec Sat 13th Dec Sat 20th Dec Fri 26th Dec Sun 28th Dec Thu 1st Jan Sat 3rd Jan Sat 10th Jan Sat 17th Jan Sat 24th Jan Sat 31st Jan Sat 7th Feb Sat 14th Feb Sat 21st Feb Sat 28th Feb Sat 7th March Sat 14th March Sat 28th March Sat 4th April Mon 6th April Sat 11th April Sat 18th April Sat 25th April

H KING’S LYNN TOWN A Workington A Rushall Olympic H NANTWICH TOWN A FC United of Manchester H MARINE H STAMFORD A Whitby Town A Buxton FAC 1Q H WITTON ALBION A Ilkeston H CURZON ASHTON A Frickley Athletic A Trafford H BELPER TOWN H BUXTON H WHITBY TOWN A Marine A Whitby Town FAT 1Q H WORKINGTON A Halesowen Town H WEST DIDS Lancs Cup A Nantwich FAT 2Q A Witton Albion H GRANTHAM TOWN H BURSCOUGH Lg Cup H BARWELL A Matlock Town H RUSHALL OLYMPIC A King’s Lynn Town H ASHTON UNITED H SKELMERSDALE A Nantwich Town A Curzon Ashton H TRAFFORD A Belper Town H FRICKLEY ATHLETIC A Buxton H BLYTH SPARTANS A Stamford A Stourbridge H ILKESTON A Skelmersdale United H STOURBRIDGE A Grantham Town H FC UNITED OF MCR A Ashton United H HALESOWEN TOWN A Barwell H MATLOCK TOWN

2-3 0-1 4-2 1-4 1-3 3-2 3-1 0-2 2-3 3-2 4-2 1-1 2-4 1-0 4-2 2-0 4-0 3-1 2-1 1-1 0-2

322 Shenton 415 Shenton 161 Shenton 365 Shenton 1917 Shenton 250 Shenton 357 Shenton 265 Shenton 261 Shenton 231 Shenton 422 Shenton 309 Shenton 215 Shenton 294 Shenton 371 Shenton 470 Shenton 237 Shenton 366 Shenton 233 Shenton 250 Shenton 358 Shenton

Smalley Smalley Smalley Smalley Smalley Smalley + Smalley Smalley Smalley Smalley Smalley Grayson * Pilkington Smalley Smalley Smalley Smalley Smalley Smalley * Smalley Smalley

Pugh Pugh Pugh Abadaki * Pilkington Pilkington Pilkington Pilkington Pilkington # Pilkington Pugh Pugh Grayson + Pugh Pilkington Pilkington Pilkington Pugh Pugh Pugh Pugh

Spencer Spencer * Spencer * Spencer + Spencer Spencer Spencer + Spencer Spencer Spencer * Spencer * Spencer 1 Stopforth Stopforth Stopforth Stopforth Stopforth Stopforth Stopforth Stopforth Stopforth

Howson Howson Howson Howson Howson Howson 1 Howson 1 Howson Howson Howson Howson Howson Howson Howson Howson Howson Howson Howson 2 Howson Howson Howson

Priestley Priestley Priestley Priestley Warrender Krou Warrender Warrender Warrender + Krou 1 Krou 1 Krou Krou Krou Krou Krou Krou Robinson Krou Krou Krou

Tonight’s Lancashire Trophy Fixtures: Bamber Bridge v Kendal Clitheroe v Nelson Radcliffe v AthertonCollieries Doodson Cup (with NPL Premier teams involved): Ashton v Salford Belper v Grantham Blyth v Frickley Coalville v Stamford Droylsden v Trafford Kings Lynn v Lincoln Matlock v Ilkeston Nantwich v Stourbridge Newcastle v Halesowen Norton/Tividale v Stafford Prescot v Buxton Rushall v Chasetown Witton v Kidsgrove Workington v Skelmersdale

fixtures & results 2014/15

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Hulme 1 Hulme Hulme 1+ Hulme Warrender Abadaki + Abadaki Warrender Abadaki Warrender Abadaki Warrender + Abadaki Abadaki Abadaki + Abadaki # Mota 1* Abadaki * Abadaki 1 * Abadaki 1 * Abadaki + Abadaki 1 Abadaki # Abadaki + Robinson #

Burton Burton Burton Burton Slaven Burton * Burton Burton Burton Burton Burton 1 Stopforth Burton Burton Burton Burton Burton Pilkington * Burton Burton Burton

Gaskell Gaskell Robinson 1# Robinson 1 Robinson * Slaven 1 Slaven * Slaven + Krou Mota # Pilkington Pilkington Spencer Mota + Hulme # Hulme Hulme 1# Hulme Hulme + Hulme 1 Hulme

Robinson 1* Robinson + Pilkington Pilkington Hulme 1# Hulme 1 Hulme 1# Krou Hulme Hulme 2 Hulme 1 Hulme Hulme Hulme Spencer + Spencer # Spencer * Spencer # Spencer 1 Spencer * Gaskell *

Dean + Dean # Dean 2 Dean Dean Dean # Dean 1 Dean Dean * Dean + Williams 1# Williams + Robinson 1# Spencer # Dean 2 Dean 1 + Dean 1 Dean + Dean Dean # Pilkington +

Pilkington Pilkington * Abadaki * Williams Williams + Williams # Williams + Mota + Mota * Pugh Dean + Burton + Williams * Robinson 1# Williams * Williams + Williams * Williams + Williams Pilkington Dean +

Slaven Slaven + Slaven + Slaven Krou * Robinson * Robinson # Cook Williams + Williams # Mota # Dean * Cook + Williams + Mota Mota * Mota Mota # Mota Williams # Abadaki #

Abadaki + Abadaki Ahmadi # Cook * Cook # Cook + Cook Williams Pugh # Irwin Irwin Mota Dean # Slaven Slaven Slaven Gaskell + Gaskell Gaskell # Mota Spencer *

Ahmadi * Cook Ahmadi # Cook Cook Williams Krou + Morley Morley Johnson Morley Johnson Morley Krou * Johnson Morley Johnson Morley Slaven * Cook + Slaven * Cook Robinson # Cook Morley Abadaki Pilkington Dean * Robinson 1+ Gaskell # Robinson # Pugh Robinson #1 Pugh Slaven * Piacentile Robinson + Pilkington * Gaskell + Robinson * Mota Piacentile

ďŹ xtures & results 2014/15

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If your face is featured then congratulations, you’ve just won yourself a cup of tea and a Mars Bar courtesy of Rammy United Supporters Club. Visit the tea bar now to claim your magniďŹ cent prize!

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Lee Pugh

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rammy in exile sky sports statto richard isaacs Good evening one and all - hope you are all well, as ever.

It maybe with a sigh of relief to know that I am not at tonight's game! I am beginning to wonder whether I am becoming some kind of Jonah to the Ramsbottom United cause and maybe I will be better served peering over the fence to watch the team rather than standing on the terraces.

Having won the previous six games and been crowned Club of the Month, I decide to rock up for the Workington game for my birthday and see us preside over a difficult 1-1 draw and then, en route back to Southampton on Saturday afternoon, peeled off at junction 3 of the M5 to ensure a very tough 90 minutes at Halesowen. So, is it me? If we go on to win tonight's game, maybe I should postpone my next planned excursion up north - which is going to be Saturday at Nantwich in the FA Trophy.

However, this was the first time that I have had a chance to sample the delights that are a Rammy away day. And what a cracking day it was too (result apart). We drove down and got to the outskirts of Halesowen for about 2pm. I called Little Katie to find out where everyone was and was directed in by a lovely local lady who was sat with the Rammy crowd. ank you very much for your help getting us there.

What a brilliant pub! e Waggon & Horses, an extremely rustic pub which you would fully expect to be full of local folk suddenly became Rammy Ultras HQ. It was such a brilliant pub that it actually sloped down with the hill that it was on in the confines of the establishment.

Superb ... you are actually trying to stand up at the bar without sliding down!!! en the short drive to the ground and the match itself. I loved it - the atmosphere at away games is fantastic although, given the situation of the game and in an atmosphere that reminded me so much of a match we played at New Mills a number of years ago (I think it was the one we got smashed 5-1 in), it was still terrific fun singing, shouting, chanting and swearing alongside Darren, Carlsberg, Paul, Joanne, Katie and Andy and everyone else whose names escape me.

It is such a delight to see our fan base growing like it is. Back in the dark old days of crowds of Bacup size, the only person shouting would be me. Now, there is a real family atmosphere, lots of singing, lots of songs (Sheep said No Rammy, sheep said noooooooooo etc) and a great, fun, enjoyable time to be had. Even Harry gets involved (ere's only one Harry Williams ... followed normally by ank **** for that!!!!!!).

And then home afterwards. In fact, I was home from the game before the Rammy fun bus (which I am guessing

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ose heady Northwest Counties days - when even e Bacup Fan wouldn’t pay to get in!

wasn't a huge amount of fun on Saturday night) got back to Rammy. But, I had an amazing day of it and am looking forward to the next one, on Saturday - if I am allowed to come.

And so it is back to work at home, watching the India v Sri Lanka one-day international on the TV and listening to the bands playing for Rememberance Sunday just about 400 yards away from my flat in Watts Park, where Southampton's Cenetaph is situated.

Had a really enjoyable trip north once again - my second home! Pleasant dinner on Wednesday in Derby then the sadness of the funeral for Alan West, the Lancashire County Cricket Club scorer, on ursday which was fantastically attended by a great many people, including Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff and the tv and radio commentator John

Gwynne amongst many others from the world of cricket, both county and Lancashire League.

Friday was a little day of shopping, including visiting Bury Market and Oswaldtwistle Mills (for their brilliant 'Slimmers Choice' sausages) and then down to the superb fireworks display across the other side of the fence. What a superb occasion that was, with a good number of people attending and enjoying the rockets and whizz-bangs!

I just don't know what it is about the place but as soon as you see the sign at junction 1 of the M66 and you see the town from high on the hill as you drive down towards it, there is a certain sense of pride, of happiness that it feels like you are coming 'home'.

Because Ramsbottom is home. My football home!

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Grant SHENTON Born in January 1991, this 6ft 2” goalkeeper joined Rammy from FC United at the end of August 2010. He was number two at FC United, but a superb season in 2010/11 saw him win Player of the Year for the Rams. He Signed full-time with the club at the start of 2011/12.

Dominic SMALLEY Signed for the club after impressing the managers when he played against the Rams for Atherton LR. Adds a whole new dimension to the Riversiders’ squad, and equally at home on the right side as either a defender or attacking winger.. Brother of Plymouth Argyle’s Deane Smalley.

Grant SPENCER Battling midfield who signed for the club in 2011 following the demise of Rossendale United, for whom he scored a hat-trick in the ridiculous 7-5 Rammy win the previous season. Won the NWCFL title with the club and was offered terms with Conference Premier side Hyde but returned to the club on loan, eventually signing full terms.

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Steve HOWSON Signed from local rivals Radcliffe Borough after a spell playing in Australia, the big man is equally at home in the heart of the defence, or up front poaching goals.

Tom WILLIAMS Wing man Tom came on as a sub in the playoff game for our opponents Bamber Bridge. e Rams management team acted swiftly in the summer to bring him down to Ramsbottom

Joel PILKINGTON Former Burnley professional player who is a model of consistency, wherever he is picked.

A previous Player of the Year award-winner, Joel is a firm favourite with the fans at the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium, and has played over 200 games for the club.

Scott BURTON It has taken some two years for the management to finally get Scott to join the Rams. Bernard and Jonno have followed Scott’s career with Runcorn Town and he finally joined the club in late January 2014.

A hard-working midfielder, similar in style to Gary Stopforth, and an integral part of the promotion winning team.

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Jon ROBINSON Experienced striker Jon was signed from New Mills and despite plentiful interest from other clubs has remained loyal to the Rams for a number of seasons now, and always finishes near the top of the goal-scoring charts. Regarded as a “Rammy legend” in east Lancashire..

Phil DEAN A constant threat in attack, a solid performer in defence. Awarded Clubman of the Year award in 2011. Continues to cause plentiful problems to defences around the leagues.

Lee GASKELL Signed at the end of August 2011 from Manchester League side Walshaw Sports and has taken his opportunity with some relish.

Last season the 29 year old won the Golden Boot accolade for being the highest scorer in the Division One North.

Jordan HULME Joined the club in December 2011 from Clitheroe via Padiham. Son of a former 1990s Rammy favourite Martin, midfielder Jordan is highly rated and scored 8 goals for the Storks before going to Clitheroe. A versatile player – he can play anywhere from defence to striker.

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Sam COOK

Malachi SLAVEN

Having spent time at University, the youngster spent last season with Shepshed Dynamo before moving back to the northwest, where joint-managers Bernard Morley and Anthony Johnson snapped him up for the Rams.

Joined the Rams in the summer of 2014, this midfield player spent last season as a member of the struggling Droylsden side which changed places with e Rams at the end of the campaign.

Osebi ABADAKI e speedy wingman joined the Rams at the beginning of the 2014/15 season, having spent the previous campaign at fellow EvoStik Premier club Nantwich Town.

Cedric KROU Cedric joined the club in January 2014 having impressed the management team during his time with rivals Trafford FC. Essentially a defender, Cedric has the ability to fit in other positions for the team.

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Nelson MOTA A 24-year old forward player who signed for the Rams in the middle of September.

Previously with FC United of Manchester and Salford City. Prior to that he had spells at Niort, Lilas, DH Saint-Maur and Paris DC in France, as well as Tercera in Spain.

Alex PIACENTILE A left-back who signed for the Rams in the middle of September. Previously with C.E.Principado De Andorra, a second division Andorran team with whom he experienced Champions League football.

John MORREY

George GRAYSON

John is the goalkeeping coach at Ramsbottom, and was formerly manager at NWCFL side Maine Road, where he constantly had them pushing for promotion.

A 20 year old player who joined from Conference side Tamworth early in the 2014/15 season. George is a highly rated fullback capable of playing on either ank, giving the Rams additional defensive exibility.

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Darren GREEN A highly respected coach who has experience at all levels of the game, from local football with Walshaw to League One time at Bury. Highly respected coach and a coup for the club to have secured him. Also a holder of a UEFA B Coaches badge.

Anthony JOHNSON Appointed joint manager at the start of the 2009/2010 season and took the club to the NWCFL title in 2011/12 season, despite missing much of the season through injury.

He has helped guide the club through another promotion via the play-os into the Evo-Stik Premier League in May 2014.

Glenn MOSES Former manager of Atherton LR, leading them to 10th place in the NWCL in 2010/11.

Resigned from his post with the Crilly Park club and joins Ramsbottom United as a highly rated coach.

Bernard MORLEY Re-joined the club in January 2009 and became joint manager at the start of 2009/2010. A Rammy man to his core, a combative and hard-working midfelder who has occasionally taken over with some prowess in goal. Successful in guiding the Rams to two promotions in three seasons.

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2-0

î Łe Grove 8th November 2014 Att: 358 Rammy Goals: Halesowen Goals: Christie (13), Turner (42)

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is was a bad day in the depths of the Black Country for the Rams who saw their unbeaten run going back to the balmy days of September brought to a pretty unceremonious end. Any suggestion that they are punching above their weight in terms of league position would be subjected to no little and quite justified dispute. However what is beyond doubt is that in practical as distinct from allegorical terms there is no doubt that they are not a physically imposing teams, and it is significant that all of their less impressive performances to date have been against bigger and stronger opponents, such as Halesown.

Perhaps sensing the nature of the challenge in front of them on a heavy pitch the Rams adopted a different approach from previous matches favouring the triple strike force of Hulme Robinson and Gaskell, which had served them well in the closing stages of the previous two matches, rather than the wide threat of Abadaki and Dean, and bringing in the relatively more muscular Pilkington in place of Spencer. Whether that strategy might have worked over 90 minutes will never now be known due to Lee Gaskell receiving a nasty head wound and having to be substituted after 20 minutes. e question might be open to debate as by then the Rams were already a goal down, Iseyden Christie, the vastly experienced Halesowen number 9, having seized on an under hit back pass from Jon Robinson which stuck on the heavy surface and calmly slotting past Grant Shenton. e home team were adept at denying the Rams mid field any time or space, often double stacking markers on Gary Stopforth and Scott Burton, hurrying and harrying them in rare moments of

possession and preventing the full backs from making any forward progress beyond the half way line to provide attacks with width. e closest and indeed only time the Rams came to scoring in the first period was a firm shot from Jordan Hulme, well tipped over by Matt Sargeant but any hope that would mark the first buds of a renaissance were snuffed out moments later when Christie found space on the left against an isolated Lee Pugh and put in a low cross turned in at close range by Elliott Turner. e situation was as bleak as the surroundings but the Rams are as indefatigable as their boisterous hard core group of travelling fans. ere was a spark of hope at a revival just short of the hour when Grant Spencer drilled home from close range but his sheepish glance at the linesman served only to confirm the flag for offside. Halesowen continued to exploit the Rams weakness to strong running onto long diagonal balls - Grant Shenton doing well to twice deny Christie, first dropping on a close range effort and then saving a firm shot with his feet. By this stage the Rams had reverted to the wide approach and with the home team looking to be running out of steam and resorting to hoofed kicks out of the ground as their prime defensive move it looked that if they could grab a goal a second might follow. e ball simply refused to fall or bounce kindly in the box and Sargeant was safe and secure on the few occasions they managed to get a firm shot on target and the threat petered out.

After the match there was comment that it was men against boys. It was certainly all a bit like Marciano against opponents several stone heavier - brave but ultimately bloodied.

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“Giant soulless plastic stadium with a crap pitch�

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e giant corporate box that is Wembley came under fire again this week, with Roy Hodgson raising the issue of the pitch having to face an NFL match just six days before England play a crucial Euro 2016 qualifier. Sunday's match between Jacksonville Jaguars and Dallas Cowboys was the third NFL match at Wembley this year and yet another money-raiser to help pay for the “Giant, soulless plastic stadium with a crap pitch,” as one tweeter so eloquently put it before spending three hours queueing for a tube train to ferry him back into central London.

"I don't really think you could expect me to say 'excellent, delighted, well done'," said Hodgson. "If I was asked if it was a good thing or not, I would have to say not." e pitch was repeatedly re-laid during Fabio Capello’s reign, at a cost of £90,000 a time, after Capello gave the F.A. a piece of his mind regarding its condition, and things haven’t improved since then. In fact, as well as an NFL game five days before England play their last Euro 2006 qualifier next year, the pitch will have faced two Rugby World Cup ties as well as the Rugby League Challenge Cup final. ere’s no doubting that rugby takes its toll on a football pitch, but at least Wembley has incredible drainage as well as a team of highly-trained groundsmen. In the photo on this page you can see that before the teams have even left the pitch (though admittedly, the corporate suits are already tucking into their prawn sandwiches) - you can count no fewer than thirteen groundsmen going at the far penalty area with forks.

After last Tuesday’s game again Workington, Harry and his band of loyal Men With Forks, spent virtually all day on the pitch, and only managed to replace the divots on about a quarter of it. A heck of a lot of work goes into keeping our pitch in better shape than Wembley’s, and Harry, Trevor, Jack etc do an incredible job. ...and so, the appeal goes out... if you can spare even as little as an hour of your time to help Harry look after our fantastic ground then please get yourself down with a fork any day of the week from 11am and help give him a lift.

Meanwhile, enjoy tonight’s match, played in a characterful, soulfilled stadium with a fantastic pitch!

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from the darkside darren comer reports on the latest rammy ultras adventures e Halloween weekend saw e Rams drawn to play away in the Goth Capital of the World against Whitby Town, and after a suggestion by Peter ‘Captain’ Tayloron the forum, it was designated as Wizard Hat Day for the travelling Ultras. As the lovely, little town of Whitby was also hosting the Goth Weekend we had decided we would join in the spooky shenanigans and the week before saw the fans forum full of posts with people trying to work out what others would be wearing.

It was an early start for the coach trip up to North Yorkshire, with the fans keeping their outfits out of sight until we reached our destination. It was an unusually sunny, warm day for the time of year and the atmosphere on the coach reflected the weather with everyone in good spirits (pun intended). Like our previous trip to Whitby earlier in the season, the 2 ½ hour trip passed quickly and we arrived at the ground not long after midday, which was the green light for people to change into their Halloween outfits.

So, as we started to make the short walk into the centre we had the sight of Andy

‘Gandalf’ Massey and his better half, Hilary ‘e Ice Queen’ Massey and Steve ‘e Scream’ Heard, in amongst the Wizard Hat Brigade. I had opted for a grotesque, rubber rams head and soon we were fitting in nicely with the thousands in the town centre.

Our first port of call was down by the harbour where we found a chippy to sample some of the world famous Whitby fish and chips. After queueing for quite a while we were sat outside tucking into our fayre and watching a whole host of ghosts, ghouls and goths walk by which created a wonderful atmosphere in the town. After finishing our food we made our way to a little pub nearby which was serving the local Samuel Smiths beers at a more than value for money £1.80 a pint which meant that it was a very, merry group of Rammy Ultras who made their way back to ground a hour or so later. e highlight of our visit to this nice, little pub (apart from the price of the beer) was when a group of Darlington supporters (on their way to Scarborough for their game) came in and immediately went back out due to it being “full of bloody Ramsbottom fans” (Darlo, we know you are a MASSIVE club who should be in the Premier League and Champions League, but you really do have to get over that play-off defeat to our ‘tiny’ team)

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from the darkside

Still got a cob on! - Darlington fans blaming everyone but themselves six months ago

We got on the ground in time to cheer the lads out onto the pitch and we all gathered together down the side that Rammy were attacking in the 1st half. e players seemed to be really up for the game and set about the Whitby defence from the opening minute and it was no surprise when Spenner opened the scoring after 15 minutes. I would like to describe the goal, but I was in the toilet at the time and completely missed it (damn you, Samuel Smith and your £1.80 pints) Despite the early goal and almost total dominance by the Rams they could not build on the lead, mainly due to the 19 year old, Shane Bland in the Whitby goal and don’t be surprised if you see him playing much higher up the football pyramid pretty soon. Blands heroics and a

Whitby equaliser on one of their rare attacks meant that we had plenty to ponder over in the club house at half time.

It was a much improved Whitby who came out for the 2nd half and the game could have gone either way. e various spooks in the travelling support had made their way to other end of the ground and were still making plenty of noise and willing the lads to get that winning goal in match that was really on a knife-edge. at is until 20 minutes from time when a stroke of genius by Jonno and Bernard saw Rammy change formation with Gassy and Robbo coming on to join Jordan in a 3 pronged attack. After this it was all attack from the lads and again only Bland in the Whitby goal keeping us from snatching a winning goal.

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from the darkside darren comer reports on the latest rammy ultras adventures en, just as we were planning for a replay the following Tuesday, Robbo managed to get through to snatch an injury time winner. is was the cue for pandemonium on the terraces from the Ultras and many complaints from the Whitby support about an offside decision that never came.

Back in the Whitby club bar after the game the mood was excellent with players, staff and support celebrating a much deserved progression into the next round and dreaming of silverware down at e Riverside by the season’s end. e Whitby sponsors gave out their Man of the Match awards and although there were a few contenders from the Rammy team, it was a well-deserved choice of Gaz Stopforth, which was quite ironic as the Whitby manager had accused him of cheating to get a player sent off in our recent league clash with them. As Gaz went up to collect his award the Rammy supporters started a chant of “cheat… cheat…..cheat” and justice was clearly seen to be done.

We were back on the coach by 6.00, and after a quick beer and snacks stop at the local Costcutter, we

were soon making our way back to Lancashire. e journey home saw the debut of Darkside’s Big Quiz where yours truly took to the microphone to ask a range of questions to determine who the Mastermind of Rammy United was. As it turned out this was Jonno and Glenn, closely followed by Shents and Whizz, and Tim and Steve ‘e Scream’ Heard, and I don’t think Jonno will let any of us forget who won for a long time yet. A special mention for poor Sophie who was partnered by Chairman Harry for the quiz as he had fallen asleep before the first round had even finished. e quiz helped the journey home go by quickly and the usual suspects were soon back at the Cricket Club for a couple more pints before making our weary, but merry way home.

COYR!

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from the darkside

A big smile from Harry and Sophie as Robbo plants his face in Spencer’s Mercurial bosum

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supporters club on the terraces of rammy Nothing brings home to me just how far Rammy has come in the last few years than looking down some of the names, and particularly attendances, in the Northwest Counties League. I spent a little while researching West Didsbury and Chorlton for this programme as, to be completely frank, I’ve never heard of them, and have certainly never been to their ground. (I hope that any West Didsbury & Chorlton fans reading this will forgive me my ignorance).at’s when I got onto a bit of a trip down memory lane - remembering that great day down at Barnoldswick when we had the team with watching the game from the touchline, or the horrendous Christmas visit to Squires Gate when ‘Beast’ had to take the field, and Gaskell was at home watching a dvd with his girlfriend! ose days don’t seem so long ago - the days when Barnoldswick was a tough place to go, and when Glossop North End outnumbered the Rammy fans massively.

Now, as I’m looking down the attendances of 85, 26, and the enormous 153 at Bacup v the might of Runcorn Linnets, I get more than a little bit dizzy. at was us three seasons ago. We’re now getting between 400 and 500 crowds at the Riverside, and we’re holding our own at

places like Ilkeston and Workington.

We’ve left Runcorn Linnets, Warrington Town, Salford City, Burscough and Darlington behind, and are even ahead of FC United in the table - who are desperately trying to nick our players and management!

Now that I’m not so ignorant of the history of West Didsbury & Chorlton, I can see a club that is probably feeling a little like we are - looking back on a history in the Manchester League and thinking, “Blimey, we’re doing it fellas!” I can see a club that has the makings of something special and could just find themselves clawing out of the Northwest Counties League (which is the only way to do it, I’m afraid), before going on like us, Salford, Trafford, Mossley, New Mills and the rest, to begin the climb up the pyramid. From reading the stuff that they’re getting up to, it looks like they’re a club with their heads screwed on, and maybe just have the ambition and wherewithall to do it.

In my opinion, tonight is not a nice game for us. We have a lot going on in the league that really needs our focus, and I’m just hoping that tonight is entertaining, without any unnecessary aggravation or injuries.

I hope everyone enjoys tonight’s match, and that we get to see an entertaining game with a hatful of goals.

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Cow Toot Lane back when Gaskell’s shorts didn’t fit and he wore a headband

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Managers: Anthony Johnson, Bernard Morley

Grant SHENTON Dominic SMALLEY Joel PILKINGTON Gary STOPFORTH Steve HOWSON Cedric KROU Osebi ABADAKI Scott BURTON Jordan HULME Grant SPENCER Phil DEAN Jon ROBINSON Malachi SLAVEN Tom WILLIAMS Lee GASKELL Lee PUGH Sam COOK George GRAYSON

Manager: Andy Nelson

Jordan HITCHEN Callum JONES Scott JONES Matthew ECKERSLEY Alex BAIRD Anthony POTTS Adam HILTON Rick GLEAVE Danny SUMMERS Chris McDONAGH Scott MASON Lewis SCHOFIELD Steve SETTLE Frasier CHILD Sam DEE Luke LUNDY

Referee: Craig Buxton Referee’s Assistants: David Mason, Ian Walsh

Next home game: Saturday 22nd November 3pm, Rammy v Grantham Town

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IT EVEN WORKS UNDER WATER

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