v Nelson 01.092015 North West Counties Premier Division Kick Off: 19.45 Issue 3 ÂŁ1.50
MCCANN Good evening and welcome to the Royal British Legion Stadium for our home league fixture against Nelson FC. May I welcome all associated with Nelson and wish you a safe journey home. I think it's fair to say that luck hasn't quite been with us this season so far. I'm not for one moment blaming all the results on poor luck, far from it, however, I do feel that we haven't got what we deserve particularly in an attacking sense. Those who witnessed Saturdays game will understand what I mean. For large parts of the game we came up against a keeper inspired and if it weren't for several fantastic saves we'd have been a lot closer to gaining a share of the points or better. Having said that we were also our own worst enemy at times and we know exactly why we lost the game. We had what I would class as 6 regular players missing on Saturday which meant opportunities were given to some of the younger members of the squad. In my opinion the lads that came in (Clinch, Dickson & Higham) acquitted themselves very well and based on what I saw I feel they have a bright future in front of them. In fact by the time your reading these notes our young talented reserve team will have competed in their 1st league fixture away at Bamber Bridge and hopefully you'll have heard about a positive performance! Tonight we face a very well resourced and experienced Nelson side that should be challenging for honours at the end of the season. We had 3 cracking games against them last season and I hope we can perform to similar standards tonight as we hope to secure our first win of the season. Thank you for your support and I hope to see you at School Road for our next home fixture on Saturday. Up the Gate!!
THE MANAGER
DAVE
Ben Fletcher (Available for sponsorship) Superb young shot stopper that had a tremendous season last year. Kept numerous clean sheets and played every single minute of every single game. 2015/16 will be his 3rd season with the club where he’ll be looking to continue his fine form.
Chris Anderson (Available for sponsorship) Chris made his league debut on the first game of last season. A versatile player that has a wand of a left foot. Some impressive performances saw him awarded ‘Coaches Player of the season’ last year. A key player in the side that influences others around him.
Alex Colquhoun (Available for sponsorship) After a short spell at the club last season, Alex has returned to the club hungry and determined to play on a regular basis. He showed signs of quality last season and will be looking to cement his place in the 2015/16 season.
Brett Ferguson (Sponsored by Service Solutions Direct Ltd) One of the main characters within the changing room, “Channy” as he is called, always has stories to tell, consistently produced good displays during last season and got on the score sheet on numerous occasions. A very adaptable player that has made a huge impression on all within the club. Winner of Clubman of the Year 2014/15.
Wes Benjamin (Available for sponsorship) Wes is a highly promising defender that arrives in time for the start of the 2015/16 season. He has experience playing in National League North football but is looking to develop through regular football with Squires Gate. Wes is comfortable playing at both centre back or right back and can even play in midfield if needed.
Andy Richards (Available for sponsorship) A club stalwart! ‘Rico’ as he is known, has been with the club for many seasons and has become a linchpin of the side. His performances and changing room experience has played a vital role in recent success. A player with many superstitions that is well liked at the club.
Josh Westwood (Available for sponsorship) Josh was a rock at the heart of defence during last season. He produced some fine individual displays and chipped in with a few headed goals. A quiet individual but very popular player that lets his feet, or head do the talking. Josh is also adaptable to play up front.
Terry Cummings (Available for sponsorship) Terry is a graduate of Myerscough College. He made his debut on the opening day of this season against 1874 Northwich. He is a forward player capable of playing across the front of any of the attacking positions in midfield. With bags of skill and ability, he’ll be hoping to make his mark on the season at the earliest opportunity.
Keiffer Cunningham (Available for sponsorship) Kiefer is a very promising young player that can play in numerous attacking positions. He made a limited number of appearances last year due to work commitments but is hoping to make a big impact this season. A young prospect with plenty to offer.
Mike was only with Gate briefly last season but his knowledge and experience of the game was beneficial to all that played alongside him. He was influential in his performances and will be looking to have the same impact throughout the 2015/16 season.
Josh Kay(Available for sponsorship) One of the youngest players in the squad that broke into the first team ranks at the end of last season. Very talented player with a strong personality which makes him ideal for non league football. Very bright future ahead of him if he stays focused and learns from others around him.
Alex McKendrick (Available for sponsorship) Alex has been at the club for a number of seasons, first arriving under the stewardship of ex manager Russ McKenna. His work rate and willingness to do the unfashionable jobs in a game have been hugely important to the team. Injury put a halt to his 2014/15 season but he’ll be looking to come back a stronger player this season.
Billy McKenna (Available for sponsorship) The flying winger missed a large part of last season due to injury but is looking to make the right midfield position his own. A popular player within the changing room that can have a big influence on games when in the mood.
Ashley Rowley (Available for sponsorship) Ash joined Gate towards the end of last season, and impressed in the time he played. He scored a crucial equaliser at home to Congleton Town and will be looking to have an impact this season.
Danny Penswick (Available for sponsorship) Danny is the captain of the club. He first joined midway through the 2013/14 season and soon established himself as a leader and highly influential player. His game understanding and levels of performance have seen him become a focal point of the team.
Mark Buchan (Available for sponsorship) Mark models himself on Ally McCoist. A fiery Scot that knows where the goal is. His workmanlike performances often go unnoticed, but he scored some valuable goals during last season. An influential player both on and off the pitch and will be a key player during this season.
Aaron Clarke (Available for sponsorship) Aaron was part of the Kirkham and Wesham squad which was victorious at Wembley in 2008. Unfortunately for Aaron, he picked up an injury the week before the final so didn’t take part in the game. A quick striker who possesses skill and eye for a pass and can also play in behind the striker in attacking midfield. Aaron will be looking to cement a spot up top and to fire Gate up the table.
MEET GATE
Mike Hall (Available for sponsorship)
3 4
GATE LOSE IN 7 GOAL THRILLER Tuesday 25th August 2015 Report by Mark Ashmore. Squires Gate scored three goals, but were outscored by Colls last Tuesday. They went into the game looking to secure their first win of the season. Gate remained unchanged from the draw with Cammell Laird the previous Saturday and welcomed back Mark Buchan who started on the bench. After a close opening first 5 minutes the visitors were awarded a penalty. The linesman flagging for a handball in the box. Colls striker Mark Battersby converted the spot kick to open the scoring on 6 minutes. Gates first chance of the half came from Terry Cummings but his cross couldn't find the head of Alex Mckendrick at the back post. Josh Kay had a chance to continue his fine form but his shot was saved at the near post. 10 minutes before he first Gate would concede a second winger Ben Hardcaste aloud to much time and his shot found the bottom corner. Josh Kay looked lively for Gate in the first half and his shot on 30 minutes was just wide for Gate. Alex Mckendrick would get a goal back for Gate with a beautiful shot into the top of the net. It would be Hardcastle again who lost his marker in the box this time and fired under the unfortunate Fletcher in net. Gate would find the net just before half time Fergusons cross to the back post found Josh Westwood unmarked to head Gate a vital goal going into half time. Josh Westwood had the chance to score again after half time after a clever chip in from Kay Westwood couldn't find the finish. Sub Ash Rowley had the next chance after Westwood flicked the ball on but Rowleys shot past the goal keeper was cleared off the line before it could reach the net. Colls had the next chance but the cross from the right hand side was cut out by Danny Penswick. A superb drive forward from Benjamin at Centre back found Cummings on the edge of the box he turned but was judged to have been fouled. Captain Danny Penswick stepped up to to bring the game level. Good work from Gate keeper Ben Fletcher again kept Gate in the game with a superb save. Poor defending from Gate saw sub James Kirby score what would be the winning goal. As much as Gate tried they couldn't find a way through in the last 10 even with 4 up front for long periods of the game.
Tuesday 1st September 2015 Premier Division Abbey Hey v Bootle Alsager Town v Runcorn Town Colne v Atherton Collieries Runcorn Linnets v AFC Liverpool Silsden v Ashton Athletic Squires Gate v Nelson Wednesday 2nd September 2015 AFC Darwen v Maine Road Padiham v AFC Blackpool Saturday 5th September 2015 FA Vase 1st Qualifying Road AFC Blackpool v Maltby Main Ashton Athletic v Atherton Collieries Congleton Town v Nostell Miners Welfare Handsworth Parramore v AFC Liverpool Hemsworth Miners Welfare v Cammell Laird 1907 Morpeth Town v Padiham Runcorn Town v Litherland REMYCA Silsden v Thornaby Squires Gate v Irlam West Didsbury & Chorlton v Barton Town Old Boys Premier Division 1874 Northwich v Runcorn Linnets Alsager Town v Nelson Barnoldswick Town v Winsford United Bootle v AFC Darwen Colne v Abbey Hey Monday 7th September 2015 Premier Division Maine Road v Congleton Town Runcorn Town v Winsford United Tuesday 8th September 2015 Premier Division Abbey Hey v Runcorn Linnets AFC Blackpool v AFC Darwen Ashton Athletic v 1874 Northwich Bootle v West Didsbury & Chorlton Cammell Laird 1907 v AFC Liverpool Nelson v Barnoldswick Town
——
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05 SEP 15:00 VS IRLAM £6 ADULTS £3 CONCESSIONS FREE FOR UNDER 12’S
#UpTheGate
@squiresgatefc
www.pitchero/squiresgatefc.co.uk
Squires Gate - last 5 matches 25 /08/15
Nelson - last 5 matches 25/08/15
ALL COMPETITIONS
ALL COMPETITIONS
Home
L
D
D
D
L
Home
W
L
L
W
D
Away
D
L
L
D
L
Away
L
D
D
W
W
Collated
L
L
D
L
L
Collated
L
L
W
W
D
At Squires Gate
At Atherton Collieries
Results
Total
%
Results
Total
%
Squires Gate
2
33.33
Nelson
1
16.67
Nelson
2
33.33
Squires Gate
2
33.33
Draw
2
33.33
Draw
3
50
Goals
Total
Av.PG
Goals
Total
Av.PG
Squires Gate
8
1.33
Nelson
8
1.33
Nelson
8
1.33
Squires Gate
11
1.83
Overall (2) Results
Total
%
Squires Gate
4
33.33
Nelson
3
25
Draws
5
41.67
Goals
Total
Av.PG
Squires Gate
19
1.58
Nelson
16
1.33
Records Highest Aggregate Score:
6
Nelson
3-3
Squires Gate
Highest Squires Gate Score:
3
Nelson
3-3
Squires Gate
Highest Atherton Collieries Score:
3
Nelson
3-3
Squires Gate
Previous Meetings Season
Date
2009/10
Sat 27 mar
Squires Gate
1-2
Nelson
Wed 26 Aug
Nelson
2-2
Squires Gate
Tues 17 Feb
Squires Gate
2-2
Nelson
Sat 15 Nov
Nelson
1-1
Squires Gate
2008/09
BARNOLDSWICK TOWN SQUIRES GATE
3 0
Saturday 29th August 2015 Report by Mark Ashmore. Gate were without 5 first team players due to injury and players being unavailable. Gate made two changes from the team that lost Tuesday night with Ash Rowley coming in for Alex Mckendrick and Alex Colquhoun coming in for Mike Hall. Gate also handed debuts on the bench to three reserve team players making the step up, Elliot Dickson, Chris Clinch and Jake Hingham. Gate made a good start to the game and had the chance to score early on, Wes Benjamin driving forward through midfield played the ball of to Ash Rowley but his shot was saved easily by the keeper. The returning Mark Buchan showed good strength soon after to hold of his defender and turn him but the shot was agin saved by the goal keeper. Another returning player Alex Colquhoun found the feet of Rowley, he turned his man and found the run of Buchan but he couldn’t latch onto the pass. The home sides first opportunity of the game came after 11 minutes Barlicks winger having a shot from outside the box only to see it hit the crossbar. The homeside’s next chance would be the opening goal. Barlicks right back allowed time to come forward before playing a scuffed pass forward and Barlicks striker slotted past Fletcher to put the home side in the lead. Poor defending from Squires Gate meant the home sides winger found enough space to score at the back post from a tight angle. Gates heads seem to drop after conceding to quick fire goals but it’s far to say that Gate were the better team throughout the first half despite the scoreline. Captain Danny Penswick was trying to lead Gate after the re start and picked up the ball in midfield but his pass through to Buchan was just a little to hard for Buchan to latch on to. Gate went into half time and should have felt aggrieved gate were the much better team with the home side only really having created the two goals. Barnoldswick keeper made 3 terrific saves in the first half to keep Gate out and keep the home side in the lead. The second half was much of the same for Gate who bossed the game but just couldn’t find that bit of luck up front to make the break through. Wes Benjamin made another surging run forward from midfield but again the home side keeper came to the rescue to catch Benjamin's cross before it could find a gate man. Terry Cummigs had the chance the create something for Gate after a superb cross field ball from Richards at right back Cummings bight the ball down with a superb touch and cut inside but his shot was tipped over by the keeper.From the resulting corner Josh Westwood was picked out but his header was again saved by the keeper. Gate tried to break the home side down and get a goal back but Barnoldswick stood firm and defend the 2-0 lead. And the home side had the chance to make it 3 late on when they hit Gate on the counter but the shot cannoned of the post, They would make it 3 soon after that, more poor defending from a corner allowed the home side to easily make it 3.
WELCOMING OUR OPPONENTS FROM ‘LITTLE WEMBLEY’... The 2014/15 saw Nelson return to the NWCFL Premier Division, after a 4 year absence having resigned from the league back in 2010. They finished in a solid 11th position, and recorded 16 wins netting 69 goals in the process. They will be looking to build on that this term, and will be aiming for a top half finish. The admirals became founder members of the new North West Counties Football League, joining in the third division. In their first season, 1982/83, they finished 10th (out of 18). In the 1986/87 season, the blues finished 4th which saw them get moved up to the second division, because the third division was scrapped. Despite finishing 16th in the second division, Nelson were forced to drop down to the West Lancashire League, due to their stadium not being up to the standards required, where they played for 4 seasons and struggled to finish any higher than 15th. After Victoria Park was upgraded, they were re-admitted to the North West Counties second division for the 1992/93 season. In the 1996/97 season, the admirals picked up some silverware as they won the Division Two trophy. In the 2000/01 season, there was some drama on the final day as Atherton LR and Nelson came head to head, with the winner getting promotion. Nelson had won the original game but the game had to be replayed, because of the fact that Atherton LR had fielded an ineligible player, and Atherton won the replay to snatch the third spot away from Nelson. In the 2005/06 season, they eventually won promotion to the First Division, finishing 3rd. In 2008/09, the First Division was renamed as the Premier Division, and despite winning just three home games, they finished in 17th position, 16 points clear of bottom club Atherton Collieries.
NELSON 3-3 SQUIRES GATE JANUARY 3, 2015
GATE EXTEND IMPRESSIVE RUN Squires Gate started 2015 with an away trip to Nelson, on the back of an impressive run where they had lost 1 in 12 games, which came away to eventual league winners Glossop North End. This was the third time both teams had met this season with Gate beating Nelson in the first game of the season before beating them again in the MEN United Cup. Gate took the lead on the 16 th minute, after a lot of early pressure from the hosts, the ball finding and unmarked Brett Ferguson at the back post to easily side foot home to give Gate the lead. The game could have been level soon after, Ed O'Neil running free for the home side but Josh Westwood was more than capable to keep up with the striker to make a fantastic challenge on the edge of the box to keep Gate ahead. Gate could only hang on until the 40th minute when after plenty of attacking pressure the home side equalised. The ball chipped into the box allowed Ed O'Neil to strike the ball first time to find the corner of the net to bring the game level. But Gate wouldn't go down without a fight and on the 44th minute were awarded a penalty. A foul on Mark Buchan allowed Alex Murphy to step up, but his penalty was saved luckily he was first to the ball to score the rebounded. Gate ahead going into half time. The second half saw Nelson pile on the pressure looking for the equaliser but Gate stood firm and defended well. but again against the run of play Gate got their 3rd of the game, a corner fired into the near post beating two men, and Alex Murphy claiming the goal direct from the corner. The home side reduced the score line once more with 10 minutes left on the clock, sub Akaunu looping the ball over keeper Ben Fletcher on his Nelson debut to give the Nelson hope. The last 10 minutes a nervy one for Gate, the visitors had to dig deep a defend in the final minutes with Nelson having five or six chances to score. With literally seconds on the clock left Nelson got their reward, after another goal mouthbattle the ball was cleared to the foot to Keiron Walmsley being some 30 yards who struck the ball into the net via the crossbar. A cruel ending for a valiant Gate performance but one that Gate boss Dave McCann was happy with.
AUGUST
Sat 8th
15:00 1874 Northwich
A
2-0
293
19th
NWCFL
Wed 12th
19:45 AFC Liverpool
A
1-0
131
19th
NWCFL
Sat 15th
15:00 Barton Town Old Boys
A
2-2
122
FA Cup EP
Tues 18th
19:45 Barton Town Old Boys
H
2-4
34
FA Cup EP R
Sat 22nd
15:00 Cammell Laird 1907
H
2-2
48
19th
NWCFL
Tues 25th
19:45 Atherton Collieries
H
3-4
150
21st
NWCFL
Sat 29th
15:00 Barnoldswick Town
A
0-3
109
22nd
NWCFL
Tues 1st
19:45 Nelson
H
NWCFL
Sat 5th
15:00 Irlam
H
FA Vase
Sat 12th
15:00 Alsager Town
H
NWCFL
Wed 16th Sep
19:45 AFC Darwen
A
NWCFL
Sat 19th Sep
15:00 Congleton Town
H
NWCFL
Tues 22nd Sep
19:45 Colne
H
NWCFL
Sat 26th Sep
15:00 Runcorn Town
A
NWCFL
Wed 7th Oct
19:45 Padiham
A
NWCFL
Sat 10th Oct
15:00 Bootle
A
NWCFL
Tues 13th Oct
19:45 Silsden
H
NWCFL
Sat 17th Oct
15:00 West Didsbury
H
NWCFL
Mon 19th Oct
19:45 Atherton Collieries
A
NWCFL
Sat 24th Oct
15:00 Maine Road
A
MU Cup R1
Tues 3rd Nov
19:45 AFC Darwen
H
NWCFL
Sat 7th Nov
15:00 Cammell Laird
A
NWCFL
Sat 14th Nov
15:00 Winsford United
H
NWCFL
Tues 17th Nov
19:45 Nelson
A
NWCFL
Sat 21st Nov
15:00 Alsager Town
A
NWCFL
Sat 5th Dec
15:00 Bootle
H
NWCFL
Sat 12th Dec
15:00 West Didsbury
A
NWCFL
Sat 19th Dec
15:00 Maine Road
H
NWCFL
Sat 26th Dec
15:00 AFC Blackpool
A
NWCFL
Sat 2nd Jan
15:00 Barnoldswick Town
H
NWCFL
Sat 9th Jan
15:00 Maine Road
A
NWCFL
Sat 16th Jan
15:00 Ashton Athletic
H
NWCFL
Sat 23rd Jan
15:00 Abbey Hey
A
NWCFL
Sat 30th Jan
15:00 AFC Liverpool
H
NWCFL
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
Sat 6th Feb
15:00 Padiham
H
NWCFL
Sat 13th Feb
15:00 Colne
A
NWCFL
Sat 20th Feb
15:00 Runcorn Linnets
H
NWCFL
Sat 5th Mar
15:00 Silsden
A
NWCFL
Sat 12th Mar
15:00 1874 Northwich
H
NWCFL
Sat 19th Mar
15:00 Congleton Town
A
NWCFL
Mon 28th Mar
15:00 AFC Blackpool
H
NWCFL
Sat 2nd Apr
15:00 Abbey Hey
H
NWCFL
Sat 9th Apr
15:00 Winsford United
A
NWCFL
Sat 16th Apr
15:00 Runcorn Linnets
A
NWCFL
Sat 23rd Apr
15:00 Runcorn Town
H
NWCFL
Sat 30th Apr
15:00 Ashton Athletic
A
NWCFL
MARCH
APRIL
P
W
D
L
F
A
GD
PTS
1
Barnoldswick Town
6
5
0
1
18
6
12
15
2
Colne
4
3
1
0
17
6
11
10
3
AFC Liverpool
4
3
1
0
11
3
8
10
4
Nelson
5
3
1
1
12
6
6
10
5
1874 Northwick
4
3
1
0
7
6
5
10
6
Atherton Collieries
5
3
0
2
13
2
-1
9
7
Bootle
6
2
2
2
8
14
-1
8
8
Silsden
4
2
1
1
9
9
1
7
9
Abbey Hey
4
2
1
1
8
8
1
7
10
Padiham
5
2
1
2
9
7
0
7
11
Aston Athletic
5
2
1
2
3
9
0
7
12
Runcorn Linnets
3
2
0
1
2
2
2
6
13
Maine Road
5
2
0
3
11
11
-1
6
14
Cammell Larid 1907
5
1
2
2
10
10
-1
5
15
Winsford United
4
1
2
1
10
10
-3
5
16
Congleton Town
3
1
1
1
7
7
0
4
17
AFC Blackpool
4
1
1
2
5
9
-4
4
18
West Didsbury
6
1
1
4
7
13
-6
4
19
AFC Darwen
6
0
3
3
9
19
-10
3
20
Runcorn Town
5
0
2
3
6
19
-6
2
21
Alsager Town
4
0
1
3
3
9
-6
1
22
Squires Gate
5
0
1
4
5
12
-7
1
2014/15 RECORD
Record vs Top Half W
D
L
W
D
L
Nelson
0
0
2
0
0
0
Played
40
Won
16
Drawn
7
Lost
17
Scored
69
Conceded
64 +5
Record vs Bottom Half W
D
L
W
D
L
0
1
0
0
0
0
Record when scoring first W
D
L
W
D
L
Goal Difference
0
0
0
0
0
0
Position
11th
2014/15 RECORD
GAMES SINCE: 6
Wins
1
Squires Gate
7
Home Wins
1
Played
40
4
Away Wins
2
Won
17
1
Defeats
0
Drawn
16
1
Home Defeats
0
Lost
7
2
Away Defeats
2
0
Score Draws
7
5
No Score Draws
6
0
Conceding 1+ goals
0
0
Scoring 1+ goals
0
5
Clean Sheets
3
16
Back To Back Wins
1
Scored
62
Conceded
42
Goal Difference
+20
Position
6th
WANT YOUR BUSINESS HERE? GET IN TOUCH! Player Sponsor If you sponsor a player, you will get FREE entry to a match of your choice*. You will also have your advert in our fantastic programme which is also available online, and uploaded to the website. All this for only £100 a season!! Match Sponsor If you would like to sponsor a match, you will get FREE entry for up to FOUR people. FREE beverages, entry to the boardroom where you will be served tea/coffee and some food, a mention on the Squires Gate Official Twitter page (@squiresgatefc), and FREE complimentary programmes! £100 a match. Ball Sponsor If you would like to sponsor a match ball, you will get FREE entry or up to TWO people, FREE beverages, entry to the boardroom, a mention on the Squires Gate Official Page, and FREE complimentary programmes! Only £50. Board Sponsor If you want your advert on a board around the ground, we have a deal depending on whether you want a 1 year deal, or a 2 year deal. If you would like to discuss the options, feel free to contact the club chairman on 07850700171. You will get an 8ft x 3ft advertising board, your advert on the club website and in the programme and FREE entry to matches.
This is your second season in the Premier Division, and after a solid 11th placed finish last season, how are you hoping to build on that? “Personally I would like to think we can cement a place in the top four. Beyond that would be a bonus, I would also like to see us have a cup run as I think that can also maintain momentum in the league” With it still being early in the season, how do you think you have coped so far? “It was a relatively fresh start with a lot of new faces added to the squad, so I had no expectations but with four played in the league, the form has been good coming into tonight’s fixture, and the depth of the squad is now good with competition high for places in the starting eleven” Squires Gate have had a slow start to this campaign, after our 6th placed finish last season, will you be hoping to take advantage of this tonight? How do you think Gate will get on this season? “I don’t think you can take any games for granted in this league, and the form book can be turned on it’s head. Looking at the Gate squad, there is no reason why you can’t push on and be looking for mid-table” Which team are you looking forward to coming up against? “We have our four other East Lancashire sides in the NWCFL Premier Division this season, so that’s EIGHT local derbies to look forward to but we were undone with two performances against Colne last season so I am looking for the admirals to put that right this season!” Which Nelson players do you think will offer the most threat to opposition this season? “I don’t like to pick individuals. The one thing that does excite me, however, is that this team has goals running right through it from back to front and a resilience that I think could be worth an extra nine points or so this season” What was your most memorable moment and game from last season? “Probably the FA Cup game, even though we got beat, the build up to the day, the media attention it drew to the club having been out of the competition for a few years and the day itself was very special. The moment of the season was the forty yarder from Danny Mahoney. You knew what he was going to do but what a strike!” Last of all, what’s your prediction for tonight’s game? “2-1 to Nelson. But I’d be happy with a draw” Thanks for your time, Neil.
VIEW FROM THE AWAY END
In this week’s programme, we ask Nelson fan Neil McGuiness, who runs the @NFCcommercial twitter page, about his views on the admirals’ chances this season. Here is what he said.
SQUIRES GATE 3-0 NELSON AUGUST 5, 2014
EMPHATIC GATE CLIMB TO 6TH Squires Gate welcomed a newly promoted Nelson in this fixture, for their first home league game of the 2014/15 season. Gate were going into this game on the back of a 1-1 draw with Bootle on the opening day. Squires Gate had been busy over the summer period, bringing in a few new faces - Alex Murphy, Harry Dunn, and Sam Dickinson were all on the list of new additions who were looking to get of the mark. In the opening 15 minutes of the game it was Gate who looked the stronger team, forcing three corners in quick succession but it was Nelsons keeper Ben Woodhead who stood firm to keep Gate at bay. Woodhead miskicked shortly after, but Harry Dunn couldn’t find the net and put the ball just wide of the post. On 20 Mins Harry Dunn delivered a sublime through ball which found the run of Jack Sowerby, who coolly slotted home to put Gate one up. Sam Dickinson found himself one on one with keeper Woodhead, but this time the keeper won the duel. On the half hour mark, Jack Sowerby doubled his and Gate’s goal tally. skilfully weaving through the area before rifling home. Into the second half and Gate continued in the same attacking vain. Harry Dunn resembling Harry Houdini as he escaped tackle after tackle from the Nelson defence. His shot producing a good save from Woodhead. On 72 minutes, Sowerby put the game to bed and completed his hatrick as he scored from the penalty spot. For the remainder of the game, Nelson had nothing to lose and at this stage, they pressed for a consolation but the gate defence remained strong to close out the game and give Squires Gate a well deserved 3 points.
Nat Taylor Nat Taylor has experience in the Football League, having come through the ranks at Accrington Stanley. Nat joined Accrington Stanley on 5th August 2011. He was a product of the Across scholarship programme where he held the captaincy of the academy team. He made his professional debut for Stanley on 9th August 2011, in the Capital One Cup against Scunthorpe United and this was closely followed by is Football League debut against Southend United on 13th August. Shortly after leaving Accrington in 2012, he had a spell at EvoStick side Clitheroe before joining Nelson in 2013.However his season had been hampered due to a serious injury that he got during training right at the start of the league campaign. Mark Sharples Mark definitely knows this league very well, having won the Premier Division on two separate occasions with Padiham and Ramsbottom United. He was signed this summer, having put in some great displays, and creating opportunities for his team at Padiham. He puts in a real shift in the centre of the park, being able to break up opposing attacks. Andy Bell Another player with bags of experience. He has been on the books of Blackburn, York City, Wycombe Wanderers, and local neighbours Fleetwood Town. He made 21 Football League apps, and nearly 200 apps in the Conference. Will definitely be worth looking out for this season, and is sure to net a few goals for the Admirals along the way. Peter Wright Nelson’s most prolific striker, had an incredible record in the 2013/14 season when he was the club and league’s top scorer with 38 goals in 37 games. It’s not a surprise when he was a product of Newcastle United and Blackburn Rovers academies. It is the second time that the forward has linked up with the Admirals’ boss Mark Fell after being part of the 2006 Chorley side in which Fell was part of Paul Lodge’s management team. He holds an FA Trophy winners’ medal for Burscough and he got both goals as the Linnets beat Yeovil Town on the way to 2003 FA Trophy Final. As one of the North West’s top non league strikers, Wright scored 28 goals with Leek Town in the 2012/13 season.
BARNOLDSWICK TOWN 4-0 SQUIRES GATE SEPTEMBER 3, 2013
A FOUR-GETTABLE NIGHT WELL this is definitely not a fond memory for those at Squires Gate. A Tuesday night trip down to Barnoldswick Town with hope that they could turn around the current bad form to the 2013/14 season. Gate had only won ONE game in August, which came in a 3-0 victory at home to St Helens Town. Town had also had a slow start to the 2013/14 season, only picking up 3 points from their opening 5 league fixtures. Gate were looking to copy their neighbours AFC Blackpool’s result the previous Saturday, which was a win over Barnoldswick. Straight from kick off, the home side were quick into attack, making sure Gate keeper Ben Fletcher was busy for the first half an hour, having to make saves that were nearly double figures. Despite the efforts from Bamba and Ralph up front, it was the home side who scored first. It was only the hands of Ben Fletcher who kept Town at bay, but failed to stop Sam Howell as he made it 2-0 within 40 minutes. However, more pressure from Town saw Gate go 3-0 down before the break, thanks to Danny Boyle. The second half looked brighter for Gate, with constant pressure and more attacking football, they were hungry for a goal. Russ McKenna came close just after half time, and Jack Hindle couldn’t trouble the keeper with his effort on the hour mark. Just as Gate were showing signs of getting a goal back, the home side put the game to bed when Chris Ridehalgh added to his tally.
We like to get you thinking with our match day quizzes here at Squires Gate. How well will you do in this week? We have given you a year, the runner up and the score of that final. You work out the rest! Why not have a go, and no cheating! (Easy = 1pt. Medium = 2pts and Expert = 3pts) EASY Year
Winner
Runner Up
2013
Man City
2011
Stoke City
2010
Portsmouth
2008
Cardiff City
2006
West Ham
2003
Millwall
1988
Liverpool
1987
Tottenham
1984
Watford
1953
Bolton Score:
MEDIUM
EXPERT
Score
No. of FA Cup wins?
/60
1 National team nicknamed ‘The Black Stars’ 2 Championship Champions in 2009/10 with 102 points. 3 London club promoted to League Two in 2015 4 Son of ex United keeper, Peter. Plays for the ‘foxes’ 5 Championship side, plays at Deepdale 6 Ukranian side, won the UEFA Cup in 2009. ______ Donetsk 7 First British team to win the European Cup 8 Former Hull City, Bradford City and Boro midfielder. Scored the winner in 2008 Championship play off final vs Bristol City. Dean _______ 9 Team with the lowest recorded Premier League points - 11
Born: 01/12/1992 Here in THE DAY THEY WERE BORN feature we focus on BEN FLETCHER and life back in 1992. Ben Fletcher started his career training at Burnley FC where he spent 6 weeks. He then moved to the Myerscough Academy Squad in 2008. In 2011, he became the reserve team keeper for Lancaster City before joining the Gate in 2013.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS Ben shares his birthday with famous film director Woody Allen, and young Manchester United player James Wilson who will turn 20 this year.
FOOTBALL CHAMPIONS The European Cup final was held at Wembley in 1992. It was between Sampdoria and Barcelona, where the Spanish side were 1-0 winners. 1992 was the year that the Premier League was formed, and the final year of the old First Division. The winners of the last First Division was Leeds United, who overhauled Man United thanks to the efforts of Gary McAllister, Gordon Strachan and Lee Chapman.
TOP 5 SONGS THAT WEEK #1 Snap - Rhythm Is A Dancer #2 Whitney Houston - I Will Always Love You #3 Boyz II Men - End Of The Road #4 The Heights - How Do You Talk To An Angel #5 Shai - If I Ever Fall In Love
TRANSFER RECORD IN 1992 In the space of 61 days in 1992, three transfers broke the record, all were by Italian clubs. Jean-Pierre Papin transferred from Marseille to AC Milan to become the first ever £10m player. Almost immediately, Juventus topped that with the signing of Gianluca Vialli for a fee of £12m from Sampdoria. Milan then completed the signing of Gianluigi Lentini for a fee of £13m which stood as the record for 3 years.
UK NEWS IN DECEMBER 1992 The Queen celebrated her ruby jubilee. Alan Shearer becomes Britain’s most expensive footballer when he transferred from Southampton to Blackburn for a fee of £3.6m at the age of 21. Fire broke out at Windsor castle causing over £50m worth of damage.
#1 BOX OFFICE FILM OF 1992 Batman Returns beat Star Trek IV to the #1 spot!
UK PRICES A pint of beer cost just £1.29.
Irlam (H) Saturday 5th September 2015 FA Vase 1st Qualifying Round The Royal British Legion Stadium Kick Off: 15.00 Adults £6, Concessions £3 Alsager Town (H)
Saturday 12th September 2015 The Royal British Legion Stadium Kick Off: 15.00 Adults £6. Concessions £3 AFC Darwen (A) Wednesday 16th September 2015 WEC Group Anchor Ground, Anchor Road, EB3 0BB Kick Off: 19:45 Adults £5, Concessions £3
Congleton Town (H) Saturday 19th September 2015 The Royal British Legion Stadium
Kick Off: 15.00 Adults £6, Concessions £3
Colne (H) Saturday 26th September 2015 The Royal British Legion Stadium Kick Off: 15.00 Adults £6, Concessions £3
Club Information
Chairman Stuart Hopwood Secretary John Maguire Ben Fletcher
Ben WOODHEAD
Treasurer
Andrew RICHARDS
Arran WILSON
John Stokes
Chris ANDERSON
Ash BRIERLEY
Manager
Billy MCKENNA
Jake LLYOD
Joshua WESTWOOD Daniel PENSWICK Brett FERGUSON Alex MCKENDRICK
Referee David Fisher
Mark BUCHAN
Ashley ROWLEY Joshua KAY Alex COLQUHOUN Wes BENJAMIN
Phil DOUGHTY
Assistant Manager
Ricky MERCER
Richard Thomas
Kevin LEADBITTER Nat TAYLOR Warren BEATTIE Mark Sharples
Keiffer CUNNINGHAM Assistant Referees Mark Hughes Andrew Daniels
Dave McCann
Pavel VIEIRA
Brad WICKS Andy BELL Paul FILDES
Terry CUMMINGS
Mark JACKSON
Nathan TROUT
Adam NUTTALL
Aaron CLARKE
David SHERLOCK
Elliot DICKSON
Peter WRIGHT
Reserves Manager Andy Collins Under’s 13 Manager Mick Bishop Groundsman Brian Addison Micky Farrar Peter Bryant Steve Bellamy Bar & Hospitality Denise Gibson Emma Hopwood Christine Walsh Media Albert Cooper Danny Braid Mark Ashmore Programme Editors Daniel Hayden
Jay Hayden Twitter @squiresgatefc Instagram