Squires Gate v Longridge Town by SquiresGateFC

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TALK OF THE

GATE SQUIRES GATE VS LONGRIDGE TOWN / 26.12.2020

NWCFL PREMIER DIVISION

INSIDE ISSUE 4

CLUB DIRECTORY Chairman: Tony Jo President: Brian Addison Club Secretary: John Maguire Committee: Tony Jo, Brian Addison, Steve Bellamy, Micky Farrer, John Maguire COVID Officer: John Maguire Media Manager: Jay Hayden Media Assistant: James Ashton Commercial: Dan Hayden Photographer: Albert Cooper Assistant Photographer: Ian Moore Shirt Sponsors: Central Insurance, Open Recruitment Limited, Taylors Fish & Chips, Global Football Network Home Short Sponsor: Marsden Plastering CLUB CONTACT Website: www.squiresgatefc.co.uk Twitter: @squiresgatefc Instagram: @squiresgatefootballclub CLUB MANAGEMENT: Manager: Luke Evans Assistant Manager: Andy Baker Sportstherapist: Lucy Gray Goalkeeper Coach: Des Christie TALK OF THE GATE Editors: Dan Hayden, Jay Hayden Front Cover: @GraphicBomb Print: Media Signs Print Contributors: @AETShirts, Russell Cox, James Ashton, Jay Hayden, @kitforbrains, @LuxembourgFooty, @BeautifulGame15, @footybookreviews, @escapismo.magazine

Two Sugars

From The Archive

Meet The Squad

Estadios De Esapana 20

True Colours

32-35

Away Days

Mind The Gap

Bruised Banana

36-39

Voice Of The Gate

British Airways FC

Youth Team

40-41

Longridge Town

Match Action

Last Time We Met

On His Day

24-28 29

Footy Book Review

Luxembourg Footy

Virtual Manager

Squires Gate Football Club

Pic by Ian Moore

www.squiresgatefc.co.uk

TWO

SUGARS We caught up with manager Luke Evans over a brew this week, as he gave us his thoughts on the week ahead...

Welcome to the Brian Addison Stadium for today’s Boxing Day clash as we face our local neighbours Longridge Town.

Sam played against Avro last Saturday at centre back and was excellent and we can’t wait to see his progress and be part of his development.

We hope that their supporters have travelled safely and that our own supporters are enjoying a lovely Christmas during what has been a very challenging year. It has been a while now since we last played a home game and to be honest the fixtures secretary hasn’t been the kindest to us recently giving us an awful lot of away games but it averages itself out and we will keep trying to find the winning formula regardless.

Lastly, Chris Webster has joined us from Ashton Athletic and for me this signing is key to us improving as a group. He spent 6 years and it’s that loyalty that is going to push us on as a group and keep us focused as we look to build this group up. He will find his form and when he does we have a player on our hands. Results on the pitch have been disappointing to say the least but I feel improvement is just around the corner this is a very good group but we need to come together and work harder as a group to make things right.

I hope that everyone is safe and well but unfortunately we have all had far too many people affected by this crazy virus and sadly a number of people that we know and care about have lost their We will go through a period of scoring many and lives to it. then the defence starts leaking and then it’s vice On the pitch we are in a transition period with versa you can’t win. I have no doubt through that various changes having took place, some forced when this team clicks we can start playing to our and some our choice but myself and Andy have strengths and winning games and hopefully that never been happier with the group and we know it starts today. is only a matter of time before it turns around. As for today’s opponents I have a lot of respect for Recently we have brought in goalkeeper Danny Eccles who has experience at higher level with both Chorley and Ashton United and he has settled in very well. Unfortunately Jordan wanted to play closer to home and that’s the risk you take with players from out of town but he goes with our blessing and we wish him and his partner Bekki all the very best in the future. We have also utilised our friendship with Fleetwood Town to acquire the services of academy captain Sam Barratt for a month due to our ongoing injury situation.

them as they are a very nice football team to watch but I feel that they have weaknesses that we will attempt to exploit. They are always up there in the league and as a relatively new club to the league it’s impressive to see how they are rising as a club. We didn’t get chance to play them in the curtailed season but I know what they are all about and it will be good to lock horns once again. All it leaves for me to say is have a very Merry Christmas and a happy new year. We hope to bring you some Christmas cheer and we hope that you enjoy the game. Up the Gate! Squires Gate Football Club

MEET THE

SQUAD 2020/21 PLAYERS AND STAFF DANNY ECCLES

MATTHEW GARRETT

RYAN DODD

Goalkeeper

Defender

Sponsored by Rebound Therapy

Squires Gate Football Club

WARRINGTON RYLANDS

THE V

NWCFL PREMIER DIVISION

GATE Saturday 2nd January 2021 KICK OFF: 3PM

After what has been such a topsy turvy season, with a lot of uncertainty as to whether we are playing, or not playing; how many fans can we have; the COVID restrictions. It’s good to finally be able to get to some live football games.

This Rylands side carry such an attacking threat, in Paul Shanley, Kane Drummond, and Elliott Nevitt that Gate will have to be on the top of their game if they are to come away with any points.

Last weekend, they beat todays Gate have had a tough start to opposition, Longridge Town, in the 2020/21 season; having only the FA Vase 2-1. played 3 games at home out of 9 and following today’s game, the CLUB INFORMATION next 3 games will be away. WARRINGTON RYLANDS 1906 In the New Year, the blues will be travelling to Warrington Rylands Ground: Rylands Recreation Club to kick off 2021. Rylands currently sit top of the league, having played 5 games and they have only lost 1.

Address: Gorsey Lane, Warrington, Cheshire

WA2 7RZ

Not only did they start the season Twitter: @RylandsFC off with a 6-1 win over fellow title contenders 1874 Northwich in the Capacity: 1,000 FA Cup. They then followed it up Manager: David McNabb with a 1-0 win over Clitheroe. Year Formed: 1906 Their only defeat this season 2020/21 Admission Prices: came away to York City in the 2nd Qualifying Round of the FA £6 Adults, £3 Concessions, U16s Cup, and even that only finished FREE with a paying adult 1-0.

After a 3-2 win over Northwich Victoria, they then went and put 6

Programme Price: £2.00

Another notable win was a 7-1 win at home to Whitchurch Alport which isn’t even the highest scoring game of the season! On the back of the trip to Warrington, Gate will then travel to 1874 Northwich and Whitchurch Alport before hosting Barlick Town on the 12th Jan. WE ARE GATE!! Bring it on!

GETTING THERE Nearest Railway: Warrington Central (1.4 miles) Nearest Bus Route to Ground: From Warrington bus station, adjacent to Warrington central station, take the number 3 bus to Beresford street which is then a 9 minute walk to our Gorsey lane ground Parking Facilities: 100+ spaces all within the ground - note on match days there will be a parking charge for spaces within the club facility. Visiting teams and officials should make themselves known to stewards to enable free parking

In what has felt like an eternity since we played our last home league game here, there has been plenty of work behind the scenes since that last game against Burscough, back at the end of October.

CLUB RAFFLE At the start of December, the club launched a Christmas Raffle to raise some money for the club. The response that we have received has been unbelievable and we would like to thank everyone who has bought a ticket, but at the same time we would like to thank the generosity of those who also donated a prize! The draw will be after the game!

ADDITIONS Luke Evans has spent the lockdown period continuing to add to his squad. Arrivals include Rob Hanslip, Danny Eccles, Chris Webster, Oliver Southern and Sam Barratt. However, the latter two are only on short term loan deals but they will all add strength in depth for the blues.

NEXT FIVE THE NEXT FIVE Today: Longridge Town (H) 2nd Jan 2021: Warrington Rylands (A) 5th Jan 2021: 1874 Northwich (A) 9th Jan 2021: Whitchurch Alport (A)

12th Jan 2021: Barlick Town (H) Squires Gate Football Club

2020/21 Premier Division The Stats TEAM

PTS

Warrington Rylands

Avro

Northwich Victoria

Irlam

-2

Runcorn Town

Hanley Town

Winsford United

Congleton Town

Bootle

10 1874 Northwich

11 Burscough

12 Padiham

-2

13 Ashton Athletic

-6

14 Whitchurch Alport

-9

15 Charnock Richard

-2

16 Longridge Town

17 Skelmersdale United

-4

18 Squires Gate

-11

19 Barnoldswick Town

-17

20 Litherland REMYCA

-9

GOALS

TEAM GOALS SCORED

Kieran Brown (HAN)

TODAYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FIXTURES

Avro

Avro v Irlam

Kane Drummer (RYL)

Winsford United

Congleton v Winsford

Zack Dale (BAR)

Warrington Rylands

Litherland REMYCA v Bootle

James Boyd (SG)

Squires Gate

Padiham v Barnoldswick Town

Sam Madeley (WIN)

Bootle

Squires Gate v Longridge Town

Matthew Birchall (NV)

Runcorn Town

Thomas Pearson (BTL)

Irlam

Monday 28th December

Carl Grimshaw (CR)

1874 Northwich

Runcorn Town v Warrington Rylands

Emini Adegbenro (SKE)

Padiham

1874 Northwich v Northwich Victoria

Rob Hopley (WIN)

Northwich Vics

Jake Parker (1874)

Ashton Athletic

Squires Gate Football Club

NATHAN’S OF LAYTON Traditional English Gentleman’s Hairstylist - with 35 years experience

Est. 1934 PRICE LIST Mens Cut: £8.70

Appointments available 7 days a week.

Call Nathan on 07497265022 to arrange a convenient time.

Senior Citizens: £6.50

All aspects of gentleman’s hairstyling.

Kids under 14: £6.00

Full PPE used and fully licensed.

WELCOMING This will be Longridge’s first visit to The Brian Addison Stadium, after both of our matches against The Ridge were postponed due to COVID-19 last season. It’s no doubt that Longridge will be up at the top of the league come the end of the season, and are still in the FA Vase. We take an indepth look into The Ridge...

THE RIDGE

WELCOMING… CLUB FACTFILE FORMED: 1996

NICKNAME: The Ridge

GROUND: The Mike Riding Ground

CAPACITY: 1500

COLOURS: Red and White Shirts, Red Shorts, Red Socks

HONOURS: NWC Division 1 Champions; 2018–19 West Lanca Premier Division Champions 2017–18 Division One Champions; 2011–12 Preston & District League Division Three Champions; 2003–04

LONGRIDGE TOWN The club was established in 1996 by a merger of Longridge St Wilfred's and Longridge United. They started in the Preston & District League and were Division Three champions in 2003–04. Subsequent promotions saw the club reach the Premier Division, and a third-place finish in 2007–08 led to them joining Division Two of the West Lancashire League in 2008.

PLAYED FOR BOTH There are multiple players who have played for both Longridge Town, and Squires Gate. Most recently, Squires Gate signed right back Jacob Ridings from Longridge.

They finished as runners-up in their first season in the division, earning promotion to Division One. The 2011 Some of the other names include; –12 season saw the club win the Division One title, resulting in RIC SEEAR promotion to the Premier Division. Lethal striker Ric Seear, always a goal threat for the clubs he plays for. In 2016-17 they were Premier Ric played for Longridge after his Division champions. Following a third spell at Gate a couple of years ago, -place finish the following season, and is now on a dual registration at the club moved up to Division One West Lancs side, Wren Rovers, and North of the North West Counties NWCFL Division One side, AFC League. The club's first season in Blackpool. Division One North of the North West Counties League saw them go on to JOE NOBLET win the league on the last day of the Another recognisable name from his season ahead of Avro F.C. time at Squires Gate. Joe left Gate in 2016, and joined Longridge Town. With becoming league champions, The midfielder is remembered at the club also got promotion to North Gate for his disallowed ghost goal West Counties League Premier against Ashton Athletic a few Division at the first attempt, as Jay seasons ago, which ultimately could Hart finished the season with thirty of cost us a place in the Premier goals. Division. Noblet now plays for Garstang, and scored against Gate in Before last season was bought to a a friendly a couple of weeks ago. halt, Longridge looked as if they were going to be competing for a HYUGA TANNER promotion place, and will definitely When he was at Gate, he provided be up there come the end of this goals and options. He will no doubt season. be a threat again in today’s game. The current manager is Lee Ashcroft. RYAN CHARNLEY Recently joined Longridge. Charnley left Gate in 2016, and was at AFC Blackpool last season.

LAST TIME WE MET

NWCFL MACRON Cup 1st Round / 20.10.2018

LONGRIDGE TOWN HART 34

1-3

SQUIRES GATE ING 48, SEEAR 53, 66

FROM THE ARCHIVE

Words from Lost Boyos’ blog

Don’t worry I haven’t changed that much over the past month – the pubs and beer are coming.I My football travels had actually begun on Friday completed several frustrating laps of the town night, as I headed up to one of my favourite centre in search of the bus stop for the bus to picturesque towns, Buxton, and visited SIlverlands, Longridge, before eventually spotting a Stagecoach the home of Buxton FC and dubbed the highest bus with ‘1 Longridge via Grimsmargh’ meandering ground above sea level in the whole of English through the town and sprinting after it. On board, a football. My second game of the season would £4.50 return bought and it was onwards to come the day after and my debut blog of the Longridge I went. season 2015/2016 would see me head to Longridge Town. Longridge is located 8 miles north-east of Preston and the route upwards towards the Ribble Valley is Once again, this was a place I hadn’t heard of a rather scenic one, although I was slightly either until recently, but on discovering it and unnerved by the Shaun the Sheep toy I spotted expressing a slight interest in visiting on Twitter, my nailed to a plank of wood in the Grimsmargh area; timeline erupted with people lavishing praise on the the thought did cross my mind that perhaps they small Lancashire Town with one of my Morecambe knew I was coming and this was some sort of pals claiming it was ‘your sort of town’. Sold. ‘intimidate the Welsh’ tactic. Fortunately, I didn’t see anymore lovable animal characters crucified on Having not drunk too much over the past few the way up towards Longridge and 20 minutes or weeks, I woke up Saturday morning slightly so after leaving Preston I was into Longridge. hungover after a night in Buxton which finished with me acquiring free bottles of Hooch from the I love little Lancashire towns. You get a nice mix of landlord of the Milton’s Head, an Elvis- obsessive the scenic and rural like Barnoldswick and the who I had befriended on my previous trips to more ‘rough and ready’ places like Colne. From Buxton. This was then followed by two young girls what people had told me about the town, Longridge on the train home wanting advice on where to go should fall into the former category, but as I walked out in Manchester and in exchange they gave me towards the town centre I just found the place a lots of wine. bit….well, ‘meh’. I was giving it a chance still though, as it was early doors. Now apart from changing trains here a few times, I’ve only really been into Preston once before (to There wasn’t a lot to see until I eventually came to watch the Swans at Deepdale) and so it was nice the main high street located on a hill. More to be reacquainted with the place.I’ve become a big importantly, at the bottom of it was the Towneley fan of smoothies recently, so i grabbed myself a Arms and it was here I had my first drink of the day. fruity concoction from a stall in the main town square to further combat any lasting signs of a The innards of the pub were fairly plush as the 18th hangover. ‘What’s happened to you Matt?’ I hear century building had undergone a refurbishment. you ask. ‘Smoothies? Coffee?’ Signs on the wall were shouting out the pub’s pride in their provision of real ales and so I figured it’d be rude not to opt for one.

I plumped for New World – a golden ale from the Marston’s brewery. It was nice too.I now decided to wander up the hill to see what else Longridge had too offer. Well, if you like small coffee shops, charity shops and local butchers, then Longridge is the place for you. However, it wasn’t exactly ticking many of my boxes. Into the Durham Ox pub I went. Now this was more my sort of place: dark, a bit scruffy and just a genuine battered pub. There was only one customer in the place: an angry Scotsman. Whilst he went on an angry, semi -coherent rant about tractors (I think that’s what he was shouting about anyway) I ordered a pint of Surf Sup – another golden ale, this time from Caledonian brewery. Now this stuff was beautiful indeed and trumped the other ale from the previous pub. I enjoyed it accompanied by the BBC’s coverage of the F1 at Silverstone on TV. With little else at the summit of the hill, I headed back down the hill and back to the two pubs I had noticed earlier in the day, but were closed until midday. I started at the Bull and Royal where I had encountered a man drinking a large glass of lime and soda, which he drunk sporadically in between doing shots of jager. Maybe it’s a local delicacy.

Soon I spotted the orange bibs on the other side of some foliage next to the Alston Arms pub and I now knew that I had found the place. There was only 20 minutes to go until kick-off, so I decided that I’d save the pub for a post match beer.I found the opening into ground and was greeted by an overgrown cabin with the words ‘Welcome to Longridge Town’ fading on the side of it. Ahead of me was a large red bungalow and the pitch in front of that. Undoubtedly the most impressive aspect of the ground is the backdrop. The hills of the Ribble Valley head off into the distance and there seems to be an endless parade of green fields leading away from the one side of the ground. It felt a bit like being right on the edge of Lancashire with the rural stretch of land heading north of the ground looking completely devoid of any form of civilisation. It really is very pretty.

The red bungalow houses the changing rooms, as well as a small club bar. In the bar I found a whole host of Longridge memorabilia and trophies and photos from Longridge’s history. There wasn’t much on sale in regards of foods (I think they’d already run out of pies) and beer came in the form of either a pint of Carlsberg, cans of Fosters or bottles On walking a few yards up the road to the Forrests of Corona for £2. Corona was purchased and I was Arms, I once again found myself in a pub complete- unsurprised to find that it didn’t come with a piece ly devoid of punters. It was literally just me and the of lime in it unlike more upper market bars. barmaid in there this time. The pub did have one of my favourite pub features though: a circular bar As the teams came out onto the pitch, Longridge in placed right in the middle of the room. I’m not sure red and Colne in their white away shirts, I posiwhy such a thing thrills me so much, but there you tioned myself in front of the diminutive stand adjago. cent to the bungalow – the only stand in the ground. Equally exciting was that the bar had Boltonbrewed beer Flat Cap on tap. Of course, I had to A few times on this blog I’ve given shout outs to the have a pint. “Flat caps are sort of my thing,” I said wonderful and wacky Twitter account/website Nonto the barmaid whilst pointing to my cap and my League Dogs (check out the site here) – yes, it is new #NoFlatCapNoParty t-shirt, which I had made exactly what the title suggests: photos of dogs up over the summer (I had two different ones made and down the country at various non-league footactually). She didn’t really respond and just gave ball grounds. Well having been a fan for years, I me a look as if to say ‘You are a loon’, before going was delighted when the brains behind the account off around the corner and leaving me alone with an tweeted me saying they would be at Longridge too. unsupervised bar. I resisted the urge to loot it.“Getting internet connection on my phone had been an issue all day with Longridge having temperamental signal for phones to say the very least. down the road from the pub. This was an issue as I really didn’t have a clue where I was heading for the ground. It eventually sprang to life though and I was delighted to learn that the ground was a mere 10 minute walk. I knew I was getting close when I could hear the thumping of footballs and the quiet shouts of men implying that a warm up for a football match was going on somewhere nearby.

The only issue was that I didn’t have a clue what this dog-loving person looked like, until... “Are you Matt?” came a voice to my left. The voice came from a lady holding two dogs, so it should have been obvious to me straight away who this was. However, I just did not click. In my head, the person behind @nonleaguedogs was an aging, beer bellied gentleman with a love of obscure nonleague grounds, but instead it was this smiley lady in front of me. I’m such a misogynist it seems. Ruth then introduced me to her partner Richard, who’s groundhopping exploits I also follow on Twitter. Richard is a Norwich fan now exiled up in Preston, but with that comes a good knowledge of grounds and clubs in the West Lancashire League – a league I clearly need to explore more of. Richard gave me some recommendations so hopefully more obscure grounds in Lancashire to come this season.

minutes. Apparently, the flat-pack stand is relatively new feature of the ground and maybe a sign that the club are pushing to develop the ground further. I went for one more lap of the ground to get a final few photos, whilst Longridge were scoring with minutes left to make a game of it in the closing stages. However, that would be the end of the scoring today. Before I headed to the Alston Arms, I made sure I went over to say hello to Colne manager Steve ‘Cunny’ Cunnigham. Cunny enjoyed my blog about my visit to Colne’s Holt House ground last season (second place for ‘Ground of the Season’ in last season’s awards blog) that he promised me free beer if our paths ever crossed. I didn’t hold him to that this time, but it was good to finally say hello. And obviously I made sure he got the obligatory double thumbs up photo.

Directly over the hedges around the far corner of the ground is the Alston Arms, which was to be my As we chatted away about places like Hurst Green final port of call in Longridge. I avoided hedgejumping to get to the pub and did the more sensible and Fulwood Amateurs, Colne took a deserved thing of walking around the road way to the pub. lead. It had taken 10 minutes for the first goal to come and it was a superb diving header finish from The Alston Arms was another rather generic food-serving pub with many visiting on this sunny Joe Garvin that put Colne in front. evening for a Saturday meal. All very nice, but also a bit bland too. Time to go I suppose. The game was played at a decent pace for a preseason friendly and either side could have grabbed Buses to Preston run frequently, so there wasn’t another goal. As the game played out, I went for long for me to wait for the number 1 bus and for me my usual lap of the ground taking photos. On my to make way back towards Preston The bus circuit of the ground I spotted a game of cricket going on on the adjacent field. Technically, I could journey back through rural Lancashire gave me have stood there and watched both the football and time to gather my thoughts together about Longridge. cricket, but…well, I hate cricket. I completed my lap with 5 minutes to go until halftime and so I thought I’d skip the half-time rush and head to the toilet. Of course, as soon as I got into the toilet I could hear the cheers from outside, as Longridge had equalised. Another header I was told.

To be honest, it was pleasant enough, but the town had not exactly blown me away either; it was all a bit too low-key for me and a bit quiet. However, I was a fan of the football club and the ground. I love any ground with a stunning backdrop and Longridge Town’s home definitely has that.

There was still time for Colne to make it 2-1 before the break, although I can’t for the life of me remember the scorer or the goal itself. Once again, more cutting edge match reporting from Lost Boyos.

Please note that these are words from Matt Harrison’s Lost Boyos blog, and not words of Squires Gate, or Longridge Town FC.

As is always the case with preseason friendlies with multiple substitutions, the second half was a fairly dull affair despite another 2 goals. The game looked to be over as Colne made it 3-1 the other side of the half-time interval, but Longridge battled on valiantly. By now, we were sitting on one of the steps of the stand hanging out with Richard and Ruth’s dogs Lou and Sidney, whilst watching the second 45

ROLL CALL Lge Cup Gls App App

Jack Anderton

Ryan Charnley

Lee Dovey

Daniel Gray

Scott Harries

Thomas Ince

Brandon Ince

Conor Linighan

Joe Melling

Hyuga Tanner

Ryan Schofield

Paul Turner

Owen Watkinson

Alex Weish

Being his Dad, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d have to say Owen Watkinson, but the team is made up of very young exciting players who play an entertaining brand of football.

Bradley Wicks

Daniel Wilkinson

Why did you start supporting Longridge? What do you enjoy most about non league football?

Samuel Harding

PAUL WATKINSON

Its been a rough year for non league clubs, how has it affected Longridge?

I think after the great run in the FA Cup there was an excitement and increased expectation for the season. The restrictions have halted all this and dampened the energy built up throughout the club. I am looking forward to a long run of games and hopefully starting to climb the league and challenging for promotion. Ahead of the game, Longridge sit 16th but have only played 3 games. What is the general expectation for this season? Do you think you have enough to fight for promotion? I think with the current management team, players and the supporting club staff, we definitely have enough to be in and around the promotion battle. Without giving too much away, which players do you think are going to be the ones to watch for Gate fans on Saturday? Who has impressed you so far?

I started watching Longridge to support and encourage my son Owen. I enjoy the usually friendly banter between fans and the closeness you get to the pitch and game. With there only being 1 meeting between the two sides, what do you know about Squires Gate as a club? Being relatively local, I know that Squires Gate are a long standing and competitive member of the North West Counties League and I visited the ground earlier in the season to watch them beat Northwich 1874 and won the raffle! If you were to sign 3 PL players on a free, who would you sign and why? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d sign Salah, Firminio and Mane, their ability speaks for itself Prediction for the game? 3-1 Longridge

PALMA

Alicante – Estadio José Rico Pérez Words from the Estadios De Espana blog The Estadio José Rico Pérez is a monument to the visionary President of Hércules CF, who saw in the early 1970’s that Alicante was at the centre of the Costa Blanca’s economic boom, and wanted his beloved club to be a part of it. José Rico Pérez began his presidency in 1971, and so would begin the most successful period in the club’s history. Pérez made his fortune as a builder and was instrumental in the club’s return to La Primera in 1974. He also negotiated a deal with the local council that saw the sale of the club’s home, Campo de La Viña, which in turn funded the building of the stadium that carries his name. La Viña had one last glorious day, when Hércules beat Córdoba 2-0 on 19 May 1974 to earn promotion back to La Primera. On 3 August 1974, Hércules played host to FC Barcelona in a friendly to mark the opening of the Estadio José Rico Pérez. The new stadium took 11 months to build and had an initial capacity of 30,000. It had on its southern side a two tiered stand with blue and white seats on the lower tier and an overhanging terraced upper tier or anfiteatro. The eastern & northern sides featured a sizeable sweep of terracing, whilst at the western end stood an even larger terrace. The club almost matched that achievement a year later, finishing in sixth place. The next six seasons brought diminishing returns and Hércules was eventually relegated to La Segunda on the final day of the 1981-82. The club almost matched that achievement a year later, finishing in sixth place. The next six seasons brought diminishing returns and Hércules was eventually relegated to La Segunda on the final day of the 1981-82. In the mid-70’s the ever resourceful José Rico Pérez persuaded to Spanish World Cup Committee that Alicante, the Gateway to the Costa Blanca, would be an ideal host city for the 1982 finals. With a capacity of 38,700, Alicante hosted two group matches featuring Argentina, El Salvador and Hungary, as well as the Third Place match between Poland and France. The stadium has continued to host international football, with the Spanish National using it on 7 occasions, drawing the first match against Hungary in March 1977 and winning on every visit since. 20

Squires Gate Football Club

The completion of the redevelopment in the spring of 1982 coincided with the relegation of Hércules to La Segunda. Two seasons later they were back in La Primera, but José Rico Pérez was no longer president, having to stand down due to ill health. Without his guidance and money, Hércules fell on hard times and by 1988 they were playing in Segunda B. Five seasons at this level saw the debts grow and when they returned to La Segunda in 1994, the club’s debts stood at 575 million pesatas. The only option was to sell the stadium to the municipality. The mid-nineties saw a one season return to the top flight, but by 1999 Hércules were back in Segunda B. In 2001, city rival Alicante CF was promoted to Segunda B and with their own Villafranqueza ground not suitable for use, they moved into Estadio José Rico Pérez. It was not a comfortable relationship, with Hércules fans resenting the presence of their smaller neighbours. The few Alicante CF fans that did attend matches at the José Rico Pérez enjoyed the experience. They even customised the stadium on match days by covering Hércules CF crests and strategically placing sacks over the white seats that spelt “Hércules CF” in order to spell “Alicante CF”. In 2007, a year after Hércules returned to La Segunda, the directors of the Hércules CF bought back the stadium from the Municipality. They did show Alicante CF some grace, for they also reached the second tier for the 2008-09 season and continued to play at the José Rico Pérez. After a 14 year absence, Hércules returned to La Primera for the 2010-11 season. Alicante CF move out and back to a redeveloped Villafranqueza. The Estadio José Rico Pérez was converted into a 30,000 all-seat stadium as part of a €45m face-lift of the stadium and surrounding sports city. Work on the stadium included the installation of new seats, press facilities, improved floodlighting and a new pitch. The stay in the top tier was marked by problems on and of the pitch, and the club found itself back in La Segunda after just one season. Worse was to follow in 2014, when Hércules dropped back to Segunda B. With cross-city neighbours and former tenants Alicante CF folding in May 2014, it may just be that the long-term survival of football in Alicante is the club’s next and most important herculean task.

www.squiresgatefc.co.uk

MIND THE GAP SOMETHING’S MISSING - WHAT IS IT? 1. Who’s the missing goalscorer?

5. Who’s missing from the Tottenham side that lost to Portsmouth in the FA Cup?

Leicester 5-3 Man United Leicester: Ulloa, _ _ _ e _ _, Vardy, __m__a___

Gomes

Bale

United: Van Persie, Di Maria, ____e__

___s___

2. Can you name the 1971-72 FA Cup semi finalists?

_a____ Corluka

_____

___t___

___e___

______s____

__o__

__l_____

___m______

Modric

3. Can you name the career path of Robbie Keane

Crouch, Defoe 6. Who is the Squires Gate player silhouetted above?

___e____ _n___ _____ _____ ___e_____

7. Which Gate player is pictured against 1874 Northwich on the left?

___ 4. Can you name the former Real Madrid goalkeeper - just from his middle name?

_ _ _ _ _ Henryk _ _ _ _ _ 8. Can you fill in the gaps from the Bournemouth side that famously beat Chelsea 4-0 in January 2019? Formation may not be accurate* __r__ ____e

Cook

Smith

Brooks

__s____

____i____

___

__r__ _ Fraser ____

BRITISH

AIRWAYS FC As part of a new feature, we are A Brief History going to take a look at a club from The first mention of the club, is in every division, from steps 1-7 of 1947, when it was known as the non league. works team of the British First up, we have British Airways Overseas Airways Corporation. In FC, from the Combined Counties 1982, the club merged with the Division One. British European Airways to form As soon as we started to pick out British Airways Football Club.

the Middlesex County League, joining Division Three (Hounslow & District), playing under the name BAA Heathrow. After finishing bottom of the division in 2007–08, they were renamed AFC Heathrow.

In 2012–13 the club's first team transferred from the London Commercial League to the Middlesex County League The Saturday team played in the Premier Division, with the team in West Middlesex League and then Division Two becoming British Well first of all, the club is based the London Commercial League. Airways Thirds. in Bedfont, close to Hounslow. The first team won the Premier The club were one of the most Bedfont itself is 1.9 miles from successful in the league, winning Division at the first attempt. After Heathrow Airport, which probably the Division One title and League winning the league title again in explains why they acquired their Cup several times, the Middlesex 2017–18, they were promoted to name. Premier Cup in 1996–97 and the Division One of the Combined Counties League. They also currently groundshare Middlesex County Intermediate with fellow Division One side, Cup a record nine times. Their best FA Vase performance Bedfont and Feltham, playing at After winning the Intermediate has only been the First Round The Orchard. A fantastic picture Cup three seasons in a row Qualifying. In 2018/19, they were below, shows a British Airways between 2004–05 and 2006–07, beaten 3-1 by Harefield United. plane flying over the ground. the club entered a team into teams to research from each league, this was one club that immediately stood out. What was the story behind British Airways FC?

At the time of merging, they had over 200 members, fielding 15 adult teams.

GATE 2 LINNETS 4 DATE: 30.10.20 COMP: NWCFL Premier GATE: Gidley Ridings (Staunton-Turner (38) Higham Dodd Gourley Westwood Ramwell (Haworth 72) Feeney Pond (Pollard 59) Ing Boyd SUBS NOT USED Baldwin Iley GOALS Ing 68 Feeney 89 BURSCOUGH: Reed Denson Lomax Gibson Brady Henerty (Weston 48) Kay Smith Quarless Quirk Brickell SUBS NOT USED Presho Salked GOALS: Brickell 18,28 Own Goal 34 Denson 81(P) ATT: 110

All pics taken by Ian Moore

GATE 4 GARSTANG 2 DATE: 5.12.20 COMP: Friendly

GATE 0 SHAKERS 6 DATE: 12.12.20 COMP: Friendly

All pics taken by Ian Moore

Pic by Ian Moore

AVRO 2 GATE 1 DATE: 19.12.20 COMP: NWCFL Premier AVRO: Latham Poxon Hewitt Jacobs Frost Chalmers Rathbone Morrow Ellis Pilkington Wallwork SUBS NOT USED: Wood White GOALS: Pilkington 55 Own Goal 73 GATE: Eccles Ridings (Pollard 76) Higham Staunton-Turner Barrett Southern Baldwin (Riley 76) Webster (Iley 76) Feeney Ing Boyd SUBS NOT USED Dodd Hanslip GOALS: Iley 88 ATT: 100 All pics taken by Ian Moore

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ON HIS

BORN ON HIS DAY

DAY LUKE HOLDEN 23rd February

Sponsored by Bridge 2020

1940 1941 Walt Disney Pinocchio released

Plutonium is first produced

1997 1997 Wimbledon 5-1Spurs

The horrific Eduardo leg break vs Birmingham City

2013 2017 Aldershot 2-0 Fleetwood

Gareth Barry

#1 UK SONG ON HIS DAY

Claudio Ranieri sacked by Leicester City

2019 2020 Burnley 2-1 Tottenham

Carlos Casimiro

Stuggart 7-0 Dortmund

2008 2008 Newcastle 1-5 Man United

Josh Gad

Manchester United beat Watford 3-0

“Think Twice” - Celine Dion

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THE BEST FOOTBALL

BOOKS @footybookreviews talks about some of the must read football books With the end of the 1991/92 season, the format of football in England shifted seismically; Leeds United were the last Football League Division One Champions and in 1992/93 the FA Premier League was born, to change forever the soccer landscape in this country. 1992 also saw the release of Fever Pitch by Nick Hornby, which transformed the way football literature was viewed to become a seminal work in sports writing. The book in structure is divided into three section, 1968 – 1975, 1976 – 1986 and 1986 – 1992, with a brief Introduction. Within each section, Hornby highlights certain fixtures to detail the relationship between his life and what he sees as the intrinsic links with football, rather than a ‘match-report’ format. Hornby is clear in the introduction to the book as to his reasons for writing Fever Pitch, detailing that it “…is an attempt to gain some kind of angle on my obsession...also, in part, an exploration of some of the meanings that football seems to contain for many of us…about being a fan…” When first reading this book twenty years ago, it was a revelation to read something that I could relate to in terms of the passion, fanaticism and obsession with ‘my’ team. Hornby had captured the enthusiasm of going to your first game and how it hooks you in, continuing the story through adolescence to adulthood and the highs and lows that occurred both in supporting your team and the angst associated with growing-up. The book had a current feel to it as it was written and published with a backdrop in which the English game was still recovering and coming to terms with the fallout from the (then) recent events of Heysel, the Bradford City fire and Hillsborough. Reading Fever Pitch again at the end of the 2012/13 season, Hornby’s Arsenal find themselves at the Emirates Stadium in a league that is a global brand,

with a team where English players are in the minority and the days of epic FA Cup ties requiring numerous replays, are a thing of the past. This change in the football landscape over the last twenty years perhaps explains why for me reading the book second-time around, the focus fell more upon Hornby’s emotional journey through depression and his personal story than the footballing context. That said, Fever Pitch is still a hugely influential read in football literature, but given the shift that has occurred in the English game and its implications for clubs and all those involved in the sport, including fans, the time is surely ripe for a second football offering from the author. Unfortunately, it is unlikely to be a Fever Pitch 2 as Hornby has said that the success of the original altered forever his relationship with the club, in that he could no longer write from the perspective of the fan. Therefore, Fever Pitch should be appreciated for the classic it is and will continue to be in the future.

Squires Gate Football Club

1995/96 In our regular feature, we will be taking a look at some kits from the past. In True Colours, you can relive some of the best and worst strips from every Premier League campaign. Our contributors for this feature are - Russell Cox (@RussWWFC), AET Shirts (@AETShirts), and Kit For Brains (@kitforbrains)

COLOURS

RUSSELL COX (@RussWWFC) TWO GOOD

Newcastle United were at the height of their powers during this season and were extremely unfortunate not to bring home the title to Newcastle after leading the league by 12 points at one point. Playing mesmeric football under Kevin Keegan, a loss of form from February to April saw them win just win twice in eight games. Manchester United eventually won the league by four points and their manager Alex Ferguson famously riled Keegan into is infamous 'I'd Love It' rant. They played in a great shirt too, with the iconic Newcastle Brown Ale sponsor and made by Adidas. Chelsea (A) Picking a second good shirt was tricky, thanks to so many great options. Indeed, Newcastle United could have had a clean sweep with their excellent navy and claret hooped shirt. But I'm going to go for a 'Marmite' shirt - Chelsea's silver (or grey) and orange away short. Sponsored by Coors a lager brand, the logo also added to the shirt. It was a disappointing mid-table season for the club, but they did reach the FA Cup Semi-Final only to lose to Manchester United. TWO BAD

Manchester United (A) The first of my two bad shirts is the Manchester United away shirt. This was the kit that was famously changed at half time in Manchester United's game at Southampton. United came into the match with a 12-game unbeaten run but found themselves 3-0 down to the relegation candidates at half time. Manager Alex Ferguson famously blamed the kit, saying that the players could not see each other against the backdrop of the crowd. They changed into their blue and white third strip at half time and although Ryan Giggs scored a consolation, they still lost 3-1. The strip was never worn again, it's original intention was to look good for fans to wear with jeans, but I don't think it has aged well. Wimbledon (A) There aren't too many bad shirts in this season, so I'll have to go with Wimbledon's rather dull red effort. Compared to some of the more elaborate designs of the period, this one is rather boring and lacks imagination. It was sponsored by Elonex, a computer company who are surprisingly still around, albeit not in as big as form as they were.

KIT FOR BRAINS Choosing a favourite kit from the 95/96 Premier League is one of the hardest tasks I've ever faced, and yet probably one that I've had the most preparation for. You see, I carried my Merlin Premier League 95/96 sticker album everywhere I went for at least a year, just in case I ran into someone who might have the swaps I needed. Actually I'm still after Efan Ekoku, if anyone has him. However, by a stroke of luck, I did complete the kit stickers quite quickly. Nine year old me would spend many an evening poring over them, using them as reference to sketch out my own shirts. I mean what else was there to do, we didn't have the internet back then, times were hard. I had to walk 2 miles to school, uphill each way and in the snow, etc. This means now I look back on most teams strips from that season with rose tinted glasses. Even as a Liverpool fan, I can admit that the Manchester United home shirt with the sublimated print of Old Trafford is iconic. Arsenal had a great showing too, both home and away, with the lightning bolt pattern being used to excellent effect on both shirts. I very nearly picked the away as one of my favourites. However... The two best kits that season were Liverpool and Newcastle's home strips. Convenient then, that both shirts squared off against each other in what would be named as the Premier League's 'Match of the Decade'. Yes, that 4-3 game at Anfield. The one that maybe cost Newcastle the title. The one where Kevin Keegan slumped over in the dugout. The one where Collymore closed in. Sartorially speaking though, the true winner was Adidas, who supplied kits to both sides. Liverpool's shirt had that distinctive, chunky cricket collar, and the overbearing Adidas stripe branding from the past three seasons shirts had been toned down to make this a more classy affair. Newcastle too had a hall of fame worthy kit, their traditional black and white stripes looking extra sharp, the grandad style collar blends seamlessly into the design, and even the 'Broon' sponsor represents the city. A special mention also needs to be made of the namesets that both teams used, the blocky typeface must be one of the greatest of all time. Worst kits from this season? Well, Bolton's home shirt isn't up to much. I can't name it as one of the worst though, it's so bland and nondescript it'd be like getting mad at a glass of water. Umbro's obsession with fishnet on the Chelsea and Manchester City away shirts is a little unsettling, but I'm not one to judge. The crazy pattern on Everton's white and grey away strip looks like the fuzzy lines you see when you get a migraine, but it isn't the worst offender. Manchester United's grey away kit is definitely one for the hall of shame. A kit so bad that Fergie made the team change at half time when they played Southampton. People still joke today about the 'invisible' kit, and rightly so. At the time Manchester United were one of the top teams in the Premier League, widely regarded as one of the best leagues in the world, so why on earth would Umbro send them out in grey, a colour synonymous with boredom? Nothing good is ever grey, skies, hair, the parrot that bit me at the zoo once. All grey, all terrible. The other kit that deserves to be forgotten is Nottingham Forest's away strip. The yellow colour on the shirt is fine, however, the pattern draped over each shoulder is not. It looks like someone described the Forest logo over the phone to Bansky, who then tried to draw it using only an etch-a-sketch. To put the icing on the cake, Umbro have spelled their own name incorrectly, writing 'Ubmro' in the chaotic mess, which shows that even they don't want their name attached to this monstrosity.

AET Shirts (@AETShirts): AET Shirts have been superb by working with the club in the closed season. We encourage our readers to check them out, as they have some great surprise packs on offer - you may even find some Squires Gate stuff in them in the near future! Their twitter account is @AETShirts, or you can follow them on Instagram @A_E_T_Shirts TWO GOOD

Coventry (A) You need to be different right? Doing something different and creative in the final third, wins games! This absolute beauty was what the 90's was all about. Bright, creative, and pushing design boundaries. The colours go well, the iconic sponsor and Pony pulling off yet another great top! Might not have been popular at the time, but it's one we love! Chelsea (A) There's always been the good ol' debate. Is it a good top, or is it a stinker? Either side of the coin is right! (as opinions are..) but for us, this shirt is up their with one of the best of the league! Umbro pulling off such a dangerous game very well. Grey and orange coming together with an iconic sponsor. Things you love to see! Boundaries are always being pushed and it's just everything we like in a shirt!

LET’S GET SHIRTY 2 points for every good shirt vote, -1 point for every bad. GS

TWO BAD

Bolton (H)

If there's one thing we're not a fan of, it's a plain white top. There's PTS not much you can do with it and whilst one of our poorer choices, it wasn't the worst that was on show. The big badge is a key stand out 8 feature but there's not much to it, in a season when the standard is 6 so high. One that some fans would like but not for us this time!

Newcastle

Aston Villa

Man City

Wimbledon (H)

Arsenal

Southampton

Spurs

Everton

Blackburn

With the choice of kits, their wasn't really a 'bad' kit in the league, but with the standard being so high, there had to be some lesser, right? Wimbeldon's top doesn't really offer much in the grand scheme of things. The collar is always a winner, but it was pretty plain for the time. Probably a little 'better' because of the team that played in it, while the team had character, the top lacked any of it sadly. Good to see a lesser brand like Core but a little on the plain side for us!

West Ham

10 Coventry

11 Leeds

12 Liverpool

13 Middlesbrough

14 Sheff Utd

15 Chelsea

16 Man United

17 Norwich

18 Bolton

-1

19 Crystal Palace

-1

20 Nottingham Forest

-1

21 Oldham

-1

GET INVOLVED IN THE CONVERSATION

22 Swindon

-1

23 QPR

-2

24 Wimbledon

-2

If you are enjoying our “True Colours” feature, join the conversation via our social media platforms. Let us know what Premier League kits were your favourites - @squiresgatefc

TWO MEN IN SEARCH OF At the start of the current season, we went on the hunt for some contributors in order to improve our programme. The guys at “@BeautifulGame15” have also recently won the Football Content Award 2020. Well done guys! Words by Two Men In Search Of The Beautiful Game Seemingly always in search of something, my tale of why even as a Spurs fan I have become quiet as obsessed as I have with the fabled 1991-1993 Arsenal away kit. A kit that sits among a select few, such as the Fiorentina Swastika design, to have reached cult level status, is because it’s helped me through a health scare, possibly saved my relationship and has undeniably improved my mental health.

depression, where I disappeared into Call Of Duty for a whole twelve months. Shunning friends, work and turning into quite an unbearable person to live with. Frankly I’m lucky that my other half of almost twelve years, is still around so we’re able to celebrate our upcoming anniversary. The reason for all the worried faces in my local walk in centre and strict instructions to get myself to A&E, were down to the tennis ball sized abscess that had grown over the course of about three days at the top of my groin.

After much badgering from the aforementioned other half, and a few attempts to ‘sleep it off’, where I just ended up tossing and turning, my temperature almost through the roof, close to delirium, I submitted. Sitting in the Lying in a hospital bed, the IV rear seat of an Uber, being drip slowly seeping into my spoken at by it’s Israeli driver, canular, doing its best to combat about his love of Jazz. A subject I the sepsis attempting to take over would normally be more than me, I was at the lowest I think I happy to discuss, but such was have ever been. I’ve battled my state I was unable to eulogise anxiety, the side effects of too about my favourite Miles Davies much weed and one bout of album.

Instead I slumped against the cool window, watching the early evening world rush by outside. Unaware yet that the monster on my hip had burst, thankfully though not affecting my fiancee’s much coveted rating on the app. The look the surgeon gave me, spoke a thousand words. Whipping open my cubabral curtain, motioning towards me to reveal my problem and then discussing it with his colleagues, I was going to need surgery. The operation itself rather straightforward, the problem and cause of the furrowed brows, was my weight and the complications that could arise when it came to the anaesthetic. There is not enough time to chronicle the battle with my weight. Up until an accident at home, a coming together with a freshly brewed pot of tea, I was healthy. Post accident and a very long time in hospital, the pounds started to pile on. My parents did their best to help me, and there was some level of success, I seemed to be getting a grip on it until my Dad died in late 2012, and I made comfort eating an Olympic event. Struggling to walk, just getting out of the house, becoming more and more challenging. I was skirting on the edge of being the subject of a Jerry Springer special. The clear concern of the anaesthetists team peaked my anxiety to an unprecedented level. The questioning pre theatre, the quiet chats they would fall into among themselves, stopping to look over at me,

collectively shaking their heads, before whispering some more.

Nap because I just couldn't muster the energy to walk her over to the park. My issues were starting to affect those around me One would break away to task, too. “can you walk up two flights of stairs unassisted?”, before After another twenty four hours in turning back, armed with my hospital, I found myself standing reply, trying to sort out the best in the doorway of Barnet General, way to keep me alive for the sans trousers because they had thirty odd minutes it would been soaked in whatever was require, to clean out the six inside my wound, and hoping that inch deep canal of shit that had my parker esq coat was just formed at the top of my left leg. about long enough to preserve what little dignity I had left. I As the oxygen mask was waited for my mini cab home, placed over my face, the feeling, and I’m sorry if this is a command of “breath deeply” bit OTT, like I had been given a was leveled at me, and the second chance. speed in which the heavy dose of drugs that the person to my Now I’m sure you are wondering, right had just administered ‘what has that go to do with kicking in almost instantanefootball kits?’, and that would be ously, and as the world closed a fair query, so let me tell you, in around me, one doctor because it is the humble football poised with a Tracheal tube, in kit, nothing really more than an the brief time I had before I overpriced t shirt with a badge went under, it did cross my sewn on it, and the name of a mind that this may be it……. betting company across its middle, there are of course a few Obviously it wasn’t and in exceptions, some that I think are hindsight I was probably being genuine works of art, that has a tad dramatic, the awkward saved my life. moment where one doctor caught me blubbing my eyes How the idea came about, I'm not out probably avoidable, but it sure, but I have to give my Mum was time for a change. The the credit for it. With money word epiphany is probably not becoming an increasing issue, quite the right one, I always why don’t I use all my free time to knew it was something I had to scour the local charity shops for conquer, but was far too lazy football shirts, and see if I can sell to do so. them.

out of the house, her own concerns about quite how big I was getting, clear every time I wheezed up the steps to her front door. Maybe I could combine my passion for football, and more specifically football kits, to make some much needed cash, but most importantly, to get some exercise. The first time was by far the hardest, the struggle to manipulate myself into the back of my VW Polo to release my daughter from her car seat, I thought was going to be the end of me. The sweat already forming around my collar, my heart beating through my chest, once upon a time it would have been enough to beat me back, convincing myself to ‘start my new regime tomorrow’, but I had fallen for that trick far too many times before, so battled through the feeling I might have a heart attack, put her in her pram and dragged myself up the high street. I didn't find anything, on reflection I think I was concentrating too much on staying upright. The effort just to move the few thousands steps if that, pushed me close to breaking point. I was just happy to make it back to the car, eventually getting her back in her seat, all without the aid of a paramedic.

From what I can recall, the next few outings were pretty fruitless too, but I had started to realise that it was getting easier. Now let me be clear, I wasn't walking any great distance Joking with the nurses, well I If I’m honest I don't think I paid at all, but it was the most I had thought I was funny, I was as much attention to her suggestion, probably walked at one time in three high as a kite mind, hey as has always been the or four years, and I was starting to probably thought I was being case. feel small changes, my heart didn't very tedious, I knew then, I feel like it wanted to explode quite couldn’t go through this again. I’d be a concert saxophonist by so much, for one. now if I had just done what I was Having become a father again told, but no, I always knew better. Slowly but surely I would come in 2017, and quite by accident Although it was my Mum who across the odd thing, a child's Roma becoming a stay at home came up with the idea, I’m pretty shirt here, an Arsenal top there, but parent in the process, my sure it was the Twitter account the idea of it being a business, and I daughter was also starting to @shirts_original, that pushed me say that in the loosest possible way, suffer from my lack of mobility, over the edge, and made my seemed a bit farfetched, but I was as was my relationship and mind up for me. able to go that little bit further each sanity. time, and my almost housebound Was there something in what my daughter was getting an idea of Long days stuck inside, dear old Mum had said, was it what the outside world looked liked, longing for her to have another more than just a ploy to get me so I ploughed on.

During those early months I was a little indiscriminate, anything vaguely resembling a shirt, .ended up in the bottom of the buggy. My other half smiling through gritted teeth as I showed her the Archway Dragons 2nd XI top I had picked up.

making sure that I’m not getting excited about another cycling jacket, the material can sometimes give the impression that its a football shirt when its not, and before I celebrate, I ensure it’s not one of three England kits I see every time I’m out, that it’s actually something interesting, it’s quite a rush.

least it had Rule Fox on the back, made it even cooler. However the shirts, and excuse the pun, are almost immaterial in this little quest.

As much as I could go on about them, how my head is turned at the sight of people walking down She knowing full well it wasn't the street in one, trying to work exactly marketable, but could see out which year it’s from, they what it meant to me, so kept up Although I’ve had a modicum of the pretence, that she was as success, a 1980’s Barcelona shirt have almost become a foil to getting my intrinsically lazy self excited about it as I was. slung over a maiden in a moving. Lancashire field. Getting up in the morning no Although I’ve found this new zest longer felt like a chore, the nose Some Spurs gems, I think so at of my daughter stirring in her cot least, bought from the fourteenth for life, I’m still very much from the Back to the Future III school at the foot of my bed, no longer floor flat of a West Ham super the signal of another day rattling fan, with a room dedicated to his of thought, “Run for fun? What around the house until Mum got own collection, you could barely the hell kinda fun is that?!” home, but quite the opposite, it open the door to. However, I will continue to meant we could go out. I had officially caught the bug, but was My passion for football shirts, the search. Why the bruised banana, why the shirt of my own teams it the exercise or retail one. simplicity of a black and white striped number, the creativity and arch rivals, simple. It’s one of the There is no denying that when outright lunacy of the early to mid hardest to find, so I better keep you spot a shirt, nestled in 90’s, the elegance of some of the on going until I do. between the threadbare stussy Italian clubs efforts, is somewhat Did you enjoy this article? Be hoodies and old school jumpers, ingrained in me. I think it stems sure to check “Two Men In there is a definite thrill, an from my first ever Spurs shirt, Search Of A Beautiful Game” on injection of endorphins. I always with the flip up blue collar and Twitter: @BeautifulGame15 have to check myself slightly, silver buttons, the fact to me at

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SQUIRES GATE

YOUTH TEAM THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE YOUTH TEAM

FALLER

Q&A

Harvey Faller is 17 years old, and plays in midfield but can adapt to any position on the pitch. He made his first team debut in our friendly against Bury AFC.

SQUIRES GATE YOUTH TEAM SQUAD GOALKEEPER Matthew Garrett DEFENDERS Karl Pacheco Tom Smith James Clacher Dylan Alunan

Will Hammond •

FOOTBALLING IDOL? Steven Gerrard

•

FAVOURITE KIT?

•

Any songs with a fast upbeat rhythm, but I’ll listen to anything.

Liverpool 2010 away kit, and the keeper shirt. •

•

FIRST EVER MATCH?

SONGS ON YOUR PRE MATCH PLAYLIST?

FOOTBALLER YOU’RE MOST SIMILAR TO?

It was a Blackpool match, I can’t I’d say James Milner, because I can play anywhere. remember who against but it was with my uncle and Grandad. • DREAM STADIUM TO PLAY IN? • BEST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR?

Anfield

Scoring a hat trick on my debut, • DREAM 5 A SIDE TEAM? or doing the double playing at Buffon, Van Dijk, Gerrard, Mane Highbury. and myself. • MOST USED APP ON YOUR PHONE? I don’t really use many.

MIDFIELDERS Dom Gill Brad Norman Scott Orr Harvey Faller Louis Kenyon Joe Wilson

Cian Turley Callum Moynes FORWARD Charile Strachan Tyler Alunan Josh Harris Filip Czarnecki

MANAGER: Josh Strachan 40

Squires Gate Football Club

Pic by Ian Moore

Pic by Ian Moore Pic by Ian Moore Pic by Ian Moore

Pic by Ian Moore

FOOTBALL IN: LUXEMBOURG History of Luxembourgish Football - Part 2 Between the two World Wars, more and more teams applied to the league, meaning that a promotion-relegation structure was used for the first time. The domestic cup’s first edition was held in 1921/22, which was won by Racing Club Luxembourg, just like the league’s inaugural season back in 1909.

ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE? If you enjoyed reading this, be sure to check out @LuxembourgFooty on Twitter for all the latest updates. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be finding out more about the lower leagues, a usual match day experience, what are the best teams in Luxembourg and the best stadiums.

In these decades two important merges happened: Racing Club and Sporting Club founded Spora, while Hollerich and Jeunesse Sportive merged into Union Luxembourg. This duo dominated the league until 1940, with at least one of them featuring on the podium nearly every year. The league was held every year until 1940 and the German invasion of the Grand Duchy and only continued after the liberation in 1944. Meanwhile, the national team appeared in the Olympics six times from 1920 to 1950 but, it took until 1948 to win a single match (they beat Afghanistan 6-0 before losing to Yugoslavia). Even in the friendlies the team constantly lost by 7-8 goals. On the whole, these were the years Luxembourg established themselves as a minnow footballing country with one of the continent’s weakest national team, which stereotype, unfortunately, lives until this day, despite the big improvement in the country’s football in the last decade. A special thanks to @LuxembourgFooty for continuing to bring some great insights into the footballing world in Luxembourg.

ESCAPISMO A MAGAZINE CAPTURING THE BEAUTY OF FOOTBALL At Squires Gate, we like to show our readers some of the fantastic magazines, and fanzines we come across on social media. This week, we have a piece written by the editor of “Escapismo” magazine, James Gamlin, who talks us through what you can expect to find in one of his magazines. “Both my Mum and Dad’s birthdays are just a few days apart at the end of June, although our two sides England and Italy always seem to play World Cup and Euros games on Mum’s rather than Dad’s!

ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE?

My Dad and I share a love for all things football, and for Father’s Day in 2018, I really wanted to make him a gift that was slightly different to the ones I would usually find. We have a huge range of photos of football between us, together with a collection of different books covering the game, whilst I had also discovered a number of fantastic independent football magazines, such as Mundial, No Place Like Home and These Football Times, which really opened my eyes to a more high quality and collectable type of publication. With this in mind I decided to create a small magazine featuring some of our photos, and articles covering some of the things we are both interested in. I ended up having a few more copies than originally planned as the printing went a little wrong, so gave some of the duplicates out to family and friends, who kept encouraging me to go further and try and launch it for real.

If you enjoyed reading this, be sure to check out @escapismo.magazine on Instagram, and find out how you can buy one of their magazines. The idea stayed with me and after lots of writing and research, “Escapismo” was launched for real a year later. It was so great to hold There has been three issues the magazine for the first time and hearing that people had enjoyed reading it was an amazing feeling. I also feel that from doing it once, I released, and the content is a must read for lovers of football. was able to understand just how much could be improved, and basing my dissertation on the magazine also allowed me to consider so many The issues are priced at £10 for different things to develop it and move forward. a paper copy, or you can buy a I looked to bring all of this together for Issue 2, with a larger size, digital version for £3. revised design and a host of contributions from photographers, and artists, together with some interviews, which brought a completely We’d like to thank James for his different dimension to the magazine. I have since done a reprint of the time, and in return he has sent first issue in the new style, and Issue 3 was also recently released – us a copy of Issue 3 which we I can’t quite believe how we’ve got to here from the original idea of making a copy for Dad a few years back! will be available to read in our clubhouse so be sure to check it My main aim for the magazine is to capture the beauty of the game, and tap into the emotions, memories and sense of pride and belongout! ing that it provides, and am so grateful to have been able to feature some incredibly talented people across the three issues. The theme of Issue Three is “ending the wait”, where I’ve looked at a host of sides who have endured long periods between winning a title, promotion or even a win against a key rival. The articles range from some of the biggest sides around to some of the lesser-known stories, and this issue has more collaborations and interviews than ever before. I really appreciate all of the support that Escapismo has received so far and have some exciting plans for the future that I can’t wait to share! 44

Squires Gate Football Club

SOCIAL

MEDIA TWITTER: :@squiresgatefc

INSTAGRAM: @squiresgatefootballclub

#WeAreGate

The summer saw a complete overhaul of our social media platforms, and we are still in the transition of a rebrand. We now have the 4th highest Twitter following in the NWCFL Premier Division and we are continuing to grow. Get involved by using the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new official hashtag... #WeAreGate

PO62

SGFC-FAX 4

100

26-12-2020

15:00

A look at two notable games, previously played on today’s date.

26th December 2007

26th December, 2012

Chelsea 4-4 Aston Villa

Manchester United 4-3 Newcastle

After sacking ‘The Special One’ for the first time in September, Chelsea had settled and looked like one of the favourites for the league title under Avram Grant.

Sir Alex’s United were always known for their comebacks. But his final season was something else altogether. Manchester United got 29 points that season after conceding the lead.

Aston Villa made a rapid start and got a 2-0 lead before Chelsea could reply. However, Villa’s Zat Knight received a red card which resulted in a rare brace from Shevchenko. Chelsea had equalised by the 50th minute and had the momentum to go for the win. Alex put the Blues ahead but Villa pulled one back quickly. The scoreline read 3-3 with 18 minutes to go.

Their exploits reached their pinnacle during the boxing day fixture against Newcastle United. James Perch first got Newcastle the lead but three minutes of Jonny Evans show resulted in him scoring the equaliser and then an own goal! Patrice Evra, who had scored 2 times in 7 seasons before 2012-13, scored the equaliser. Papiss Cisse soon gave Newcastle the lead again but Robin Van Persie equalised as pushed on for the winner.

In a ridiculous turn of events, Chelsea’s Ricardo Carvalho was sent off but Michael Ballack scored a brilliant free kick with 2 mins to go on the clock as Chelsea seemed to have clinched it. However, there was one more twist yet to arrive. Ashley Cole received a red card for a last minute handball which also gave Aston Villa a penalty. Gareth Barry scored from the spot and Aston Villa somehow rescued a point.

HEADLINES 48

SPORT

Squires Gate Football Club

After a flurry of attacks and end to end display of football, Carrick provided a brilliant lob for Javier Hernandez who scored the winner in the 94th minute. Manchester City lost 1-0 against Sunderland on the same day as the Red Devils opened up a 5 point lead. This paved the way for Man Utd’s 20th and Sir Alex’s 13th and the last league title.

A-Z INDEX

JAMIE DAW APPOINTED VIRTUAL MANAGER In November, Jamie Daw was appointed our “Virtual Manager”. After being impressed with the clubs social media presence, he was eager to join our journey and handed his CV into the club. Jamie streams his Squires Gate FM career via his YouTube channel, so be sure to check it out! Words by Jamie Daw About a month a go there was a knock at the door; it was my AET Surprise box I ordered weeks before. Excited, I couldn't wait for the surprise, to see what goodies could be packaged inside. Eager to share my surprises with the community, I produced a box opening video with excitement and purity.

the trying times we all find ourselves in. The gaffer did not hesitate on making this happen and wanted to give back to our loyal and committed fans.

Once the news hit that Squires Gate could be bought to the world of Football Manager, the Gaffer, Luke Evans and other senior members of the club jumped on the opportunity. The premise of this venture was simply to give the fans engagement and give them something to feel good about during

welcoming me into the Squires Gate family. This club already holds a fond place in my heart, and long may it continue.

With the full support of Luke and the club, I set out on building the foundations for this journey. With help of other creators over on Twitter, we were able to piece things together, by way of an incredible When I opened the box, out jumped a ‘Talk Of The lower league database created by the amazing Gate', and from that moment on, I knew it was fate. FMEditorsTeam, taking the English game back to Over the days, our paths crossed with one another, tier ten within the Football Manager world and also bought the beautiful Squires Gate kits to life in from then on, I knew this club was like no other. Your social media presence was a joy to be hold, game, with the help of FMCustomKits. My thanks and I couldn't wait for this journey to unfold. and appreciation go out to both amazing creators/ teams for making this journey possible. After back-and-forth engagement with the club, and the presentation of the social media platforms and With the building blocks in place, and the incredible personal at Squires, instantly had me hooked. I support received from Luke, playing and nonknew from that moment on that this club have the playing staff alike, there left only one thing for it, to solid foundations to thrive in this beautiful game we bring this journey to life. call football, and I had to be a part of that journey. I came up with a proposition I hoped the club would You can follow the club’s journey in the virtual jump on and that they did. Having fifteen plus years world of Football Manager by way of weekly live experience in the virtual world of 'Football Manage- streams over on my YouTube channel: ment', I proposed to the club that they could benefit youtube.com/c/JCREDO91 and can also receive live updates via the clubs, and my Twitter page: from having a virtual manager to take them on a @FM_Credo. journey through the wonderful world of 'Football Manager', a highly reputable management simula- Lastly, I would like to take this opportunity to thank tion game. Luke and all the playing and non-playing staff for

I have been JCredo and you, have been awesome. Stay safe, stay well, stay you. #WeAreGate

MATCH DETAILS

Started

SUB

Unused sub

DEBUT

Club Debut

EP27 Sub used - with initials of player replaced/minute of sub Booked

Sent Off

F-A

Att. (KO)

Suspended

Pos Gate scorers and goal times

Tue

Sep

Maine Road (FA Cup EP Round)

5-0

300

Sat

Sep

Ashton United (FA Cup Prelim. Round)

0-2

286

Sat

Sep

Birtley Town (FA Vase 1st Qual. Round)

1-1

Boyd 75

Sat

Oct

Congleton Town

2-3

148

Boyd 16, Westwood 70

Tue

Oct

Padiham

1-2

110

Boyd 13

Sat

Oct

Barnoldswick Town

2-3

145

Haworth 20, Ing 22

Tue

Oct

Charnock Richard

1-3

145

Pollard 53

Tue

Oct

1874 Northwich

4-2

105

Sat

Oct

Bootle

2-7

199

Boyd 57, 83

Sat

Oct

Burscough

2-4

110

Higham 68, Feeney 89

Sat

Dec

Avro

1-2

130

Sat

Dec

Longridge Town

3pm

Sat

Jan

Warrington Rylands

3pm

Tue

Jan

1874 Northwich

Sat

Jan

Whitchurch Alport

Tues

Jan

Barnoldswick Town

Sat

Jan

Ashton Athletic

Tue

Jan

Burscough

Sat

Jan

Northwich Vics

Tue

Jan

Bootle

Sat

Jan

Winsford United

TBC

Longridge Town

TBC

Congleton Town

TBC

Hanley Town

TBC

Runcorn Town

TBC

Skelmersdale United

TBC

Charnock Richard

TBC

Winsford United

TBC

Ashton Athletic

TBC

Irlam

TBC

Whitchurch Alport

TBC

Runcorn Town

TBC

Padiham

TBC

Skelmersdale United

TBC

Litherland REMYCA

TBC

Avro

TBC

Northwich Vics

TBC

Warrington Rylands

TBC

Irlam

TBC

Hanley Town

TBC

Litherland REMYCA

TBC

7.45pm 3pm 7.45pm 3pm

Ing 39, 44, 65, Higham 53, Pon

Boyd 5, 30, Feeney 17, Westwo

Iley 88

nd 89 CG70

SUB

ood 33

DEBUT

SUB

DEBUT

X X

LH88

SUB

LH63

1 X

JP59

SUB

X DB73

JP75

1 X

SS61

1 X

JH80 SS60

X X DB64

1 X

2 X

DB46

JR76

Dean ING

Joshua POLLARD

Sam STAUNTON-TURNER

James BOYD

Declan BALDWIN

Cameron GOURLEY

Luke HOLDEN

Joshua WESTWOOD

Jake HIGHAM

Jacob RIDINGS

Ryan DODD

Danny ECCLES

DI79 SUB

RR83 SUB

LT65 SUB

SS58

SUB

EP78

JR38 EP59 CW76

Jack ILEY

Kieran FEENEY

Ryan RILEY

Chris WEBSTER

Rob HANSLIP

Matty GARRETT

1 3

Jamie RAMWELL

SS79

X X

SUB

EP65 SUB DEBUT

SUB SUB

DB76

The Teams VS MANAGER

MANAGER

LUKE EVANS

LEE ASHCROFT

MATCH OFFICALS

SQUIRES GATE

LONGRIDGE TOWN

Danny Eccles

Jack Anderton

Josh Westwood

Ryan Charnley

Jake Higham

REFEREE

Lee Dovey

Ryan Dodd

Kavan Hurn

Daniel Gray

Dean Ing

Scott Harries

Jack Iley

Thomas Ince

James Boyd

Brandon Ince Conor Linighan

Matthew Garrett

ASSISTANT REFEREES

Cameron Gourley Sam Staunton-Turner Josh Pollard

David Wolfenden

Hyuga Tanner

Benjamin Wiseman

Ryan Schofield

Ryan Riley

Paul Turner

Luke Holden Oli Orr Declan Baldwin Andy Haworth Jacob Ridings Kieran Feeney Rob Hanslip

Joe Melling

Owen Watkinson

UP NEXT AT THE BRIAN ADDISON STADIUM

BARNOLDSWICK TOWN

Chris Webster

Alex Weish Bradley Wicks Daniel Wilkinson Samuel Harding

12.01.21

Sam Barratt

KO 19.45

Jamie Ramwell

NWCFL PREMIER DIVISION

Elliott Pond Oliver Southern

THE NEXT THREE

WARRINGTON RYLANDS 1874 NORTHWICH VS SQUIRES GATE VS SQUIRES GATE

WHITCHURCH ALPORT VS SQUIRES GATE

02.01.21

05.01.21

09.01.21

15:00

19:45

15:00

RYLANDS RECREATION CLUB

STADUIM

KMJ MORTGAGES STADIUM

NWCFL PREMIER DIVISION

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TWITTER

SQUIRES GATE FC

@SQUIRESGATEFC

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