Squires Gate vs West Didsbury & Chorlton

v West Didsbury & Chorlton 17.10.2015 NWCFL Premier Division Kick Off: 15:00 Issue 10 ÂŁ1.50

Club Information

Chairman

MATCH PREVIEW

Stuart Hopwood Secretary

Words by Daniel Hayden

John Maguire

We would like to welcome all West Didsbury & Chorlton supporters and the committee to The Royal British Legion Stadium for today’s NWCFL fixture. Last Saturday saw us heavily beaten by a strong Bootle side, where we didn’t perform well and struggled to get going throughout the game.

Treasurer

On Tuesday night, we saw a completely different Gate side as we beat Silsden 3-1 thanks to Billy McKenna and a brace from Mark Buchan. However, it was a great team performance and I feel we got what we deserved. It just goes to show how football can change within a couple of days.

It has been all change over the past few weeks, and today we could move out of the bottom three with a win, depending on other results. 6 points seperate todays sides with West Didsbury 15th in the league table, having won a third of their games - and if they can tighten up their defence then they could easily push up the table. Turn to page 14 for an in depth look at todays opposition.

Gate were without Danny Penswick and Ash Rowley on Tuesday, but the duo are set for a return this afternoon and Rowley will be looking to add to his goal tally after getting on the score sheet against Bootle.

In the last four meetings between todays teams, Gate have taken 9 points out of a possible 12, with the most common score being 2-0. I’d certainly take that today, and I’m pretty sure Gate supporters would too!

John Stokes Manager

Daniel Penswick Reserves Manager Andy Collins Under 13’s 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 Personally, I would like to thank West fan Peter Jones for his great contribution Mark Ashmore to this weeks programme, it’s much appreciated. I’d also like to thank Albert Cooper for his contribution, as he tells us about his time at Squires Gate as well Programme Editors as his fantastic career - where he has photographed some footballing legends Daniel Hayden and has even got an exclusive photo from the World Cup final in 1996!

Jay Hayden Our next game will be on Monday as we travel to Atherton Collieries who beat Twitter us 4-3 in August. We will return to The Royal British Legion Stadium on the @squiresgatefc 31st as we face Padiham.

Instagram @squiresgatefc

Ben Fletcher (Sponsored by S.E.I. [Maintenance] LTD) Superb young shot stopper that had a tremendous season last year. He 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.

Nathan Trout (Available for sponsorship) Nathan moved to the Fylde coast from Liverpool. A ball winning centre half that has a big presence on the pitch, he’ll be hoping to force his way into the team and make his position his own.

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.

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 (Sponsored by Mark Ashmore) 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.

Mike Hall (Available for sponsorship) 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.

Conah Bishop (Available for sponsorship) Conah is one of the youngest players in the squad and plays on the right side of midfield. He has the pace to run at the opposition and can also score goals. He is a great addition to the team.

Joe Noblet (Available for sponsorship) Joe had a spell with Gate a few seasons ago, and returned under the new management of Danny Penswick. He is an attacking midfielder with an eye for goal and will be sure to add goals to the squad.

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.

Antony Stayte (Available for sponsorship) Stayte is a great addition to the squad, who brings experience from his time at AFC Fylde and from teams in a higher tier. He knows how to organise and motivate his team mates and is very good at holding the ball up.

Ashley Rowley (Travel Care World) 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 (Sponsored by Bill White) Danny is the manager and 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.

3 1 BUCHAN BRACE SINKS SILSDEN Tuesday 13th October 2015 Report by Mark Ashmore. Picture by Albert Cooper Squires Gate hosted fellow strugglers Silsden on Tuesday night looking to get back to winning ways after Saturday's 5-1 defeat to Bootle. Silsden say two places above Gate coming into the game and were unlucky not to win against Linnets after a 97th minute winner for Linnets.

Manager Danny Penswick missed the game after picking up a knock and was replaced by Noblet. Nathan Trout came in for Colquhoun who dropped to the bench and Ryan Riley came in for Rowley who was unavailable.

Gate started the game very well early on with Josh Kay almost opening the scoring. He cut inside but the ball cannoned off both posts before being cleared. Joe Noblet was the next to try his luck from midfield but his curling shot fell the wrong side of the post. Gate opened the scoring 13 minutes into the game. The ball played upto Buchan who cheated the ball to Riley he took the ball in his stride and opened his legs. Riley took the ball to the byline and crossed to find the run of Buchan who got himself in the box to head Gate in the lead. Riley was again involved this time linking with McKenna who controlled the cross field pass well and took the ball in his stride. He stormed into the box before drifting the ball into the back of the net. Gate added a quick fire third on the 22nd minute a free kick from Fletcher fired into the box found Buchan who challenged for the ball. Silsdens keeper dropped the ball in the challenge allowing Buchan and easy tap in for his second. Silsden had the last chance of the first half but the cross couldn't find the run of the number 9 at the back post.

Gate made a poor start to the second half and conceded nine minutes into the half. Gates defence allowing Silsden space to find the back of the net and give them a boost. The second half featured more chances for the visitors as they came into the game more. But Gate defended well and had chances of there own. Josh Westwood with the chance to make it 4-1 but his header from the corner was cleared off the line. Billy McKenna had a chance to grab his second but his shit with the left was over the bar. Gate held on to record their second victory of the season much to the applause of the crowd and players.

Pics by Albert Cooper

Saturday 17th October 2015

Tuesday 20th October 2015

1874 Northwich v Barnoldswick Town

Abbey Hey v Maine Road

AFC Liverpool v Runcorn Linnets

AFC Blackpool v AFC Liverpool

Ashton Athletic v Bootle

Alsager Town v 1874 Northwich

Atherton Collieries v Alsager Town

Ashton Athletic v Colne

Cammell Laird 1907 v Abbey Hey

Runcorn Linnets v Congleton Town

Colne v Padiham

West Didsbury & Chorlton v Nelson

Congleton Town v Winsford United

AFC Darwen v Barnoldswick Town

Maine Road v AFC Darwen

Padiham v Silsden

Runcorn Town v AFC Blackpool

Saturday 24th October 2015

Squires Gate v West Didsbury & Chorlton

The Men United Cup Round 2

Monday 19th October 2015

!874 Northwich V Winsford United

Atherton Collieries v Squires Gate

Abbey Hey v Silsden

Runcorn Town v Cammell Laird 1907

AFC Darwen v AFC Blackpool

Winsford United v Bootle

LEAGUE

LEAGUE CUP

FA CUP

FA VASE

2015/16

CARDS

APP

SUB

GLS

APP

SUB

GLS

APP

SUB

GLS

APP

SUB

GLS

APP

SUB

GLS

Y

R

FLETCHER

12

0

0

0

0

0

2

0

0

3

0

0

17

0

0

0

0

RICHARDS

12

0

0

0

0

0

2

0

0

3

0

0

17

1

0

0

0

MCKENNA

9

1

0

0

0

0

2

0

1

2

1

0

16

2

1

0

0

WESTWOOD

11

0

1

0

0

0

2

0

0

3

0

0

16

0

1

1

0

PENSWICK

10

0

1

0

0

0

2

0

0

3

0

0

15

0

0

1

0

FERGUSON

12

1

0

0

0

0

2

0

0

3

0

0

17

1

0

1

0

MCKENDRICK

3

0

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

1

0

0

5

0

0

0

0

HALL

4

0

0

0

0

0

2

0

0

0

0

0

6

0

0

0

0

BUCHAN

9

2

3

0

0

0

2

0

1

2

1

2

13

3

6

2

0

RILEY

1

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

0

1

2

0

0

0

ROWLEY

5

5

2

0

0

0

0

2

0

3

0

1

8

7

3

1

0

KAY

11

0

2

0

0

0

2

0

2

2

0

0

15

0

4

7

1

COLQUHOUN

8

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

3

0

0

11

1

0

0

0

BISHOP

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

HIGGINS

1

2

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

2

1

0

3

3

0

0

1

TROUT

5

4

0

0

0

0

0

2

0

0

2

0

5

6

0

0

0

CLARKE

0

5

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

2

0

0

5

0

0

0

DICKSON

0

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

0

HIGHAM

0

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

0

NOBLET

1

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

0

1

2

0

0

0

P

W

D

L

F

A

GD

PTS

C

Padiham

42

26

10

6

92

45

47

88

2

Maine Road

42

28

3

11

99

57

42

87

3

Bootle

42

26

8

8

79

43

36

86

4

Runcorn Town

42

26

9

7

105

45

60

84

5

Winsford United

42

25

8

9

85

45

40

83

6

Runcorn Linnets

42

21

9

12

82

58

24

72

7

Congleton Town

42

20

9

13

85

55

30

69

8

Colne

42

19

10

13

93

60

33

67

9

Barnoldswick Town

42

19

9

14

77

57

20

66

10

AFC Blackpool

42

19

9

14

60

58

2

66

11

AFC Liverpool

42

18

6

18

69

64

5

60

12

Wigan Robin Park

42

17

5

20

66

71

-5

56

13

Glossop North End

42

14

11

17

73

71

2

53

14

Norton United

42

16

7

19

69

83

-14

52

15

Alsager Town

42

14

8

20

66

78

-12

50

16

Stockport Sports

42

14

13

15

72

69

3

49

17

Bacup Borough

42

13

8

21

51

71

-20

47

18

Silsden

42

11

6

25

58

98

40

39

19

St Helens Town

42

9

9

24

54

91

-37

36

20

Ashton Athletic

42

10

5

27

58

91

-33

35

21

Squires Gate

42

8

6

28

47

95

-48

30

R

Stone Dominoes

42

3

4

35

31

166

-135

13

Opposition

Home

Away

AFC Blackpool

0-2

1-2

AFC Liverpool

2-3

1-0

Alsager Town

3-3

0-3

A SEASON TO FORGET FOR GATE

Ashton Athletic

3-2

4-0

Bacup Borough

0-2

0-0

Barnoldswick Town

0-2

3-2

Bootle

0-4

2-2

Colne

3-1

2-0

Congleton Town

1-3

3-0

Glossop North End

2-2

4-0

It’s hard to look for positives out of a season where you’ve only managed to pick up 8 wins. You just know it’s not a good season when you lose at home to a side who finished bottom with only one away win; which was against Gate.

Stone Dominoes relegated after winning only 3 games all season, as they picked up 7 points and a goal difference of –166!

Maine Road

2-1

4-0

Norton United

1-2

2-0

Padiham

0-2

5-4

Runcorn Linnets

0-1

3-2

Runcorn Town

1-4

5-0

Silsden

1-1

2-1

St Helens Town

3-0

5-0

Stockport Sports

2-0

4-0

Stone Dominoes

0-1

0-3

Wigan Robin Park

2-2

2-1

Winsford United

0-1

4-1

SEASON REVIEW Words by Daniel Hayden

Despite having one of the worst away records in the league, there were some entertaining games on the road.

Gate played out a 9 goal thriller with eventual champions Padiham - losing 5-4.

A few positives to take from the season was that we beat local rivals AFC Blackpool 2-1 in one of our only away wins of the season and getting a win over runners up Maine Road.

—— TUE ——

03 NOV 19:45 VS AFC DARWEN

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

BOOTLE 2-4 SQUIRES GATE Sat 28 September, 2013 Bootle's Delta Taxi Stadium Vesty Road, is not usually a happy hunting ground for Squires Gate, and when with only 18mins on the clock, Bootle were two goals up. it looked as though nothing changes. Even though Gate were the first to show, when straight from the kick off the ball fell to the feet of Seydou Bamba, who slipped the ball past the home keeper from close range, only to see the ball go the wrong side of the post.

In the 13th min Sean Miller put the home side ahead from the penalty spot, giving Ben Flet cher no chance of prevent the shot going into the bottom left hand corner of the goal.

While Gate were trying to compose themselves , a shot from Bootle's James Riley, went in, again in the bottom left hand corner of the net. As the first half progressed the midfield began to make progress, and returning from a year away, Andy Richards, was settling in. Seydou Bamba was fouled 30 yards out on the right, and up stepped Lynden Hodgkiss to fire a pile driver free kick, which the keeper could only parry, and Andy Harvie was first to react, slotting the ball home on 35 mins. This was quickly followed by a foul on Andy Harvie again 30 yards out this time on the left, and this time Andy Richards hit a cracker, only to see the ball tipped over by the keepers fingers. The interval came with Gate looking to be taking control of the game.

The second half saw Gate bring on Neil Unsworth, and as the game wore on it looked as though the visitors would be the team to get the next goal, with their defence looking the more solid, giving chances for Jack Sowerby and Seydou Bamba who was having his best game of the season. Then on 70 mins it was Seydou who, climbed highest to head a Charlie Russell corner beating the defence, and put Gate level at two all. Joe Noblet, came on as sub, and within mins, got on the end of a Seydou Bamba pass, Twisting on one leg as he volleyed in from 27 yards to give Gate the lead on 76 mins. Sensing victory they pushed on, and a long ball from Andy Richards found Jack Sowerby on the edge of the penalty area, he brought the ball under control, rounded a couple of defenders, and left the keeper grasping at thin air, he raced through to slot home the fourth goal on 87th min, sending team and supporters home to celebrate their first away points of the season.

CURRENT FORM

THIS SEASON P

W

D

L

F

A

PTS POS

15

5

1

9

27

32

16

15th

P

W

D

L

F

A

6

4

0

2

31

12

PTS POS 12

4th

COMPETITION

DATE

SCORE

NWCFL

08 Aug

West Didsbury 1-2 Atherton Collieries

NWCFL

11 Aug

Alsager Town 2-1 West Didsbury

Founded:1908

FA Cup EP

14 Aug

1874 Northwich 3-0 West Didsbury

Ground: Capacity: 1,000

NWCFL

18 Aug

West Didsbury 0-3 AFC Liverpool

Chairman: Glyn Meacher

NWCFL

22 Aug

West Didsbury 0-1 Barnoldswick Town

Manager: Stevie Settle

NWCFL

25 Aug

Nelson 4-2 West Didsbury

NWCFL

29 Aug

AFC Darwen 2-2 West Didsbury

NWCFL

31 Aug

West Didsbury 2-3 1874 Northwich

FA Vase Q1

05 Sep

West Didsbury 2-1 Barton Town Old Boys

NW CFL

08 Sep

Bootle 1-2 West Didsbury

Highest Average Attendance: 118

NWCFL

12 Sep

Winsford United 1-0 West Didsbury

Highest Attendance:

NWCFL

15 Sep

Ashton Athletic 3-0 West Didsbury

NWCFL

19 Sep

West Didsbury 5-1 Padiham

460 (vs FC United of Manchester July 2013)

NWCFL

26 Sep

West Didsbury 0-3 Runcorn Linnets

FA Cup Progression:

FA Vase Q2

03 Oct

West Didsbury 15-1 Dinnington Town

Extra Preliminary Round

NWCFL

06 Oct

West Didsbury 4-3 Alsager Town

NWCFL

10 Oct

Abbey Hey 1-5 West Didsbury

NWCFL

13 Oct

West Didsbury 2-3 Cammell Laird 1907

2013/14 saw a strong recovery from a series of early season setbacks and defeats in August to consolidate with a very creditable 12th place league finish in the Premier Division. Two new stands were then installed to improve spectator facilities and the new grass pitches were laid out on adjoining land as part of the long term development plan. Further historic milestones in 2013-14 were the 2-0 home victory over Abbey Hey in the club’s first ever appearance in the FA Cup quickly followed by a 2-1 first FA Vase victory away at NCEL Rossington Main near Doncaster in mid September.

Last season the club had an erratic start in the League and lost to Brighouse Town from the Evo Stik League [North] in the FA Cup at the end of August having been given a walk over by the FA in the previous round against NWCFL new club, Cammell Laird 1907. Rossington were FA Vase opponents for the second successive year and again defeated 2-1, this time at home, before losing 1-2 to eventual finalists Glossop North End. Some good mid season results garnered enough points to finish 16th in the table, well clear of trouble, with a final home game 2-0 victory over Runcorn Linnets signing off manager Andy Nelson’s six meteoric season’s in style.

This season has seen an early FA Cup exit away to 1874 Northwich, and a couple of narrow home defeats by the odd goal compounded by injuries to several key players. The one away trip at time of writing saw a good win at Alsager for the first time getting a first three points on the board. New manager Steve Settle has given chances to a number on new younger players as the club aims to build on the steadily increasing average attendances and improve on last season’s league position, whilst remaining as a volunteer run, ‘not for profit’ club.

Squires Gate - last 5 matches 17/10/15

West Didsbury - Last 5 matches 17/10/15

ALL COMPETITIONS

ALL COMPETITIONS

Home

D

L

L

L

W

Home

W

L

W

W

L

Away

W

D

L

W

L

Away

D

W

L

L

W

Collated

L

L

W

L

W

Collated

L

W

W

W

L

At Squires Gate(2)

At West Didsbury & Chorlton

Results

Total

%

Results

Total

%

Squires Gate

2

100

West Didsbury

1

50

West Didsbury

0

0

Squires Gate

1

50

Draw

0

0

Draw

0

0

Goals

Total

Av.PG

Goals

Total

Av.PG

Squires Gate

3

0.3

West Didsbury

3

0.3

West Didsbury

0

0

Squires Gate

3

0.3

Overall (16) Results

Total

%

Squires Gate

3

75

West Didsbury

1

15

Draws

0

0

Goals

Total

Av.PG

Squires Gate

6

0.6

West Didsbury

3

0.3

Records Highest Aggregate Score:

2

Squires Gate

2-0

West Didsbury & Chorlton

Highest Squires Gate Score:

2

Squires Gate

2-0

West Didsbury & Chorlton

Highest West Didsbury Score:

3

West Didsbury

2-1

Squires Gate

Previous Meetings Season

Date

2013/14

Sat 08 Feb

Squires Gate

1-0

West Didsbury & Chorlton

Sat 22 Feb

West Didsbury & Chorlton

2-1

Squires Gate

Sat 17 Jan

Squires Gate

2-0

West Didsbury & Chorlton

Tue 31 Mar

West Didsbury & Chorlton

1-2

Squires Gate

2014/15

SQUIRES GATE 1-0 WEST DIDSBURY & CHORLTON

Sat 8th February, 2014 On a day that saw only 4 games out of 17 in the North West Counties football League Premier and 1st Div. it was a day when football took second place to the wind and rain. It was the visitors very first visit to the Royal British Legion Stadium, and both teams were unsure of each other, having never met before, but it was the home side that took the game to the visitors, and had an early chance with a 30yard shot from Craig Carney, saved brilliantly by Paul Hughes in goal, he flung himself at full stretch to tip the ball for a corner. Then Callum Cooke, broke free of his marker, to put in a shot, but the keeper was able to save. The visitors who at start of play were 8 places above Gate, made runs into the home defence, and Mark Woodcock who had come on as a sub. beat Gate’s defenders and hit the crossbar from 30 yards. But it was the home side who looked the most likely to open the scoring, until, the final 15 mins of the half when the wind increased in strength, and the rain drenched the surface, making the visitors defending more difficult to clear the ball up field, knocking at least 10yards off the length of a clearance kick by their keeper, than was possible at the start of the game. This was of no help to the home side, even with the wind in their favour, control became a lottery, and passes went beyond the forwards. So both teams must have been frustrated at half time, with little to show for great efforts.

The second half showed no let up by both teams, and the relentless strong wind and rain, making it look as though neither side was going to get ahead, but on 63 mins Jack Sowerby, picked up the ball on the right wing near the half way line, he just powered his way forward outpacing his marker, who when they entered the penalty area, tried to pull back Gate’s leading scorer with a hand on his shoulder, which seemed to give the striker the signal to shoot, and he hammered the ball past Paul Hughes who was helpless against the pile driver, for a worthy match winning goal. Gate brought on fresh legs in the form of Ryan Riley, for Jack Hindle. But for the last ten minutes of the game, the conditions were becoming so bad, that some of the home fans were worried that the game might be stopped. But the pitch stood up to the test of the weather, which was testimony to the loving care of award winning groundsman Brian Addison. The last kick of the ball brought a great save from Home keeper Dave Rodgerson, who managed to get across to push the ball away to safety, and the ref blew for time.

WEST DIDSBURY & CHORLTON 2-1 SQUIRES GATE Sat 22nd February, 2014 Gate travelled to South Manchester in their return game to West Didsbury & Chorlton FC, the pair had faced each other just two weeks ago where Gate had turned out a great home win. West Didsbury hadn’t played at home since the 4th of January but the pitch looked as if the whole of the 5 Nations Rugby squads had just had a tournament on it. A minute’s silence was held in respect for the death of Sir Tom Finney, both teams started with chances at each end but it was Gate who first came nearest to scoring when on 8 minutes when Seydou Bamba tested out the home keeper’s reflexes when he rifled in a powerhouse from outside the penalty area which hit the crossbar and rebounded back into play, while at the other end Gate keeper Dave Rodgerson made a brilliant save tipping the ball just wide of his right hand upright. The home side took the lead on the 22nd minute when Didsbury’s Graham Kay pounced on a loose ball after a cruel deflection and tapped the ball past the outstretched hands of keeper Rodgerson. As the first half went on the pitch looked more like a battlefield, as both teams struggled to control much of the play, with even the simplest pass swerving and bobbling in all directions apart from its intended target.

The second half started much the same as the first, with chances going astray, Gate had a great chance of an equaliser when hotshot Jack Sowerby made a great run down the right wing dodging a few tackles and fired a shot but seeing his effort rising just above the home side’s crossbar. Gate keeper Rodgerson was again called into action saving another goal bound effort from the hosts. Jack Sowerby was again in on the action when after Bamba was fouled 30 yards out, only to see his effort fly wide of the post. As the game grew older the pitch looked like a freshly ploughed field, and passing became useless, and the visitors suffered another sucker punch when the home side doubled their tally on the 62nd minute to a Matthew Kay goal. Gate boss then fielded two substitutions Charlie Russell and new signing Marc Mullen, this seemed to put an extra zest into the team, Jack Sowerby put a ball over to Seydou Bamba who raced down the left wing beating the defence and placing a neat airborne chip back to Sowerby, he then fended off another defending challenge and volleyed home his first on 70 minutes. Gate looked for their equaliser Charlie Russell, Sam Christensen also went close as Gate tried in vain but all their efforts went begging and referee Mr Wood blew his whistle to end proceedings .

SQUIRES GATE 2-0 WEST DIDSBURY & CHORLTON

Sat 17th January, 2015 The first half was largely dominated by the away side in which Gates back five produced an impressive display. The highlight of the first half came when the ball was scrambled of the line to deny a Didsbury goal. Both teams looked to get the ball forward quickly but neither possessed the quality to take the chances created. It wasn't until the 42nd minute when the break through happened. Alex Murphy bought down on the edge of the area and from the resulting free kick he found the back of the net. The Didsbury keeper will perhaps have been a little frustrated with his efforts to keep the ball out as Murphy's free kick seemed to go straight through him. Gate will have been the happier side going in to half time, it being fair to say that the goal came against the run of play.

Into the second half and Gate came out a much better side every player looked more motivated than in the first half. One thing that changed in the second half was Gate's formation, Gate changing to four across midfield allowing both Dunn and Mckendrick to move wider and stretch the game. The benefit of this was clear to see when on the 64th minute Alex Murphy found acres of space to run into to finish well for his and Gate's second of the day. Didsbury had the chance to get a goal back late on but Ben Fletcher was more than equal to the shot to make yet another fine save and to keep Gates clean sheet intact. Gate weathered a late storm of pressure from Didsbury and saw the game out by bringing Jack Cook on to sure up the defence and see out the win and three points.

WEST DIDSBURY & CHORLTON 1-2 SQUIRES GATE Tues 31st March, 2015

Gate started the game the better side and could have gone ahead early on, good link up play between Murphy and Dunn but the latter couldn't convert Murphy's cross. Gate were a constant threat down Wests Right hand side with Harry Dunn looking lively and full of confidence. Wests only real chance of the game came after 20 minutes Baldwin Willis shooting but his drive was easily saved by Fletcher. Gate's opener came after a beautiful ball out to Dunn on the wing was controlled well he beat one man before driving the ball low towards goal the ball was intercepted by the Didsbury defender and was out into his own net. Gate doubled there lead with fine work again from Harry Dunn his ball back from the byline found the on rushing Buchan to slot the ball past the goalkeeper to put Gate 2-0 up.

Into the second half and it was the home side that very much were the better of the two. Fletcher was called Into action early on as the conditions became harder to play in due to rain and hail. It would be fair to say that the home side had Gate rattled in the opening 20 and dominated the minutes. And they would make it pay on 65 minutes when Gary Lilley jinked and jived through Gate midfield before Poking the ball through to Daniel Russell who smashed the ball past Fletcher. What followed was a very professional and disciplined 30 minutes from Gate who made sure they secured the result and the three points. late on Mark Buchan and Sub Rowley combining before the latter took a touch to many instead of shooting. But this wouldn't matter as Gate went on to secure all 3 points and get back to winning ways

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

3-0

109

22nd

NWCFL

Tues 1st

19:45 Nelson

H

2-2

105

21st

NWCFL

Sat 5th

15:00 Irlam

H

2-2

37

FA Vase Q1

Tues 8th

19.45

A

2-3

80

FA Vase Q1R

Sat 12th

15:00 Ashton Athletic

H

0-0

49

21st

NWCFL

Wed 16th

19:45 AFC Darwen

A

1-1

167

21st

NWCFL

Sat 19th

15:00 Congleton Town

H

1-2

69

21st

NWCFL

Tues 22nd

19:45 Colne

H

1-4

105

21st

NWCFL

Sat 26th

15:00 Runcorn Town

A

5-0

88

21st

NWCFL

Sat 3rd

15.00 Winsford United

H

0-2

36

Wed 7th

19:45 Padiham

A

0-1

149

21st

NWCFL

Sat 10th

15:00 Bootle

A

5-1

129

21st

NWCFL

Tues 13th

19:45 Silsden

H

3-1

45

21st

NWCFL

Sat 17th

15:00 West Didsbury

H

NWCFL

Mon 19th

19:45 Atherton Collieries

A

NWCFL

Sat 24th

15:00 Maine Road

A

MU Cup R2

Sat 31st

15.00 Padiham

H

NWCFL

Tues 3rd

19:45 AFC Darwen

H

NWCFL

Sat 7th

15:00 Cammell Laird

A

NWCFL

Sat 14th

15:00 Winsford United

H

NWCFL

Tues 17th

19:45 Nelson

A

NWCFL

Sat 21st

15:00 Alsager Town

A

NWCFL

Sat 5th

15:00 Bootle

H

NWCFL

Sat 12th

15:00 West Didsbury

A

NWCFL

Sat 19th

15:00 Maine Road

H

NWCFL

Sat 26th

15:00 AFC Blackpool

A

NWCFL

Sat 2nd

15:00 Barnoldswick Town

H

NWCFL

Sat 9th

15:00 Maine Road

A

NWCFL

SEPTEMBER

Irlam

OCTOBER

FA Vase Q2

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

JANUARY

Sat 23rd

15.00

Abbey Hey

H

NWCFL

Sat 30th

15.00

AFC Liverpool

H

NWCFL

FEBRUARY Sat 13th

15:00 Colne

A

NWCFL

Sat 20th

15:00 Runcorn Linnets

H

NWCFL

Sat 5th

15:00 Silsden

A

NWCFL

Sat 12th

15:00 1874 Northwich

H

NWCFL

Sat 19th

15:00 Congleton Town

A

NWCFL

Mon 28th

15:00 AFC Blackpool

H

NWCFL

Sat 2nd

15:00 Abbey Hey

H

NWCFL

Sat 9th

15:00 Winsford United

A

NWCFL

Sat 16th

15:00 Runcorn Linnets

A

NWCFL

Sat 23rd

15:00 Runcorn Town

H

NWCFL

Sat 30th

15:00 Ashton Athletic

A

NWCFL

MARCH

APRIL

P

W

D

L

F

A

GD

PTS

1

Colne

14

11

2

1

45

18

27

35

2

Runcorn Linnets

13

10

0

3

28

13

15

30

3

Runcorn Town

15

8

3

4

34

21

13

27

4

Barnoldswick Town

14

8

2

4

33

21

12

26

5

1874 Northwich

15

7

4

4

33

32

1

25

6

Bootle

16

7

3

6

29

28

1

24

7

Nelson

14

7

2

5

31

22

9

23

8

AFC Liverpool

14

6

4

4

40

29

11

22

9

Cammell Laird 1907

16

6

4

6

36

32

4

22

10

Ashton Athletic

15

6

4

5

22

18

4

22

11

Atherton Collieries

12

6

3

3

29

26

3

21

12

Winsford United

14

5

4

5

23

29

-6

19

13

Abbey Hey

11

5

2

4

22

23

-1

17

14

Padiham

15

5

2

8

29

34

-5

17

15

West Didsbury & Chorlton

15

5

1

9

27

32

-5

16

16

AFC Darwen

16

4

4

8

30

47

-17

16

17

Congleton Town

11

4

3

4

23

25

-2

15

18

Maine Road

14

4

2

8

24

34

-10

14

19

Silsden

13

3

3

7

20

30

-10

12

20

AFC Blackpool

12

3

2

7

22

34

-12

11

21

Squires Gate

14

2

4

8

15

32

-17

10

22

Alsager Town

13

1

2

10

17

32

-15

5

1908 15-1 10

The year West Didsbury were founded .

West Didsbury beat Dinnington Town 15-1 in their previous FA Vase win.

Ashley Woods is currently their top scorer after netting 10 goals already this season.

229

Their highest attendance so far this season vs 1874 Northwick.

118

Their average attendance this season.

41

The amount of games since their last goalless draw.

19

The amount of games since they last kept a clean sheet.

3

West Didsbury have scored five or more goals in THREE games this season!

1000 8

The capacity of the Recreation Ground.

The number of trophies they have won in their history

How they lined up vs Cammell Laird 1907 (lost 3-2) Saeed

Potts

Poole

Evangelinos

Russell

Eckersley

Gavin

Kay

Jones

Woods

Buckley-Smith

2014/15 RECORD

W

D

L

W

D

L

0

2

6

1

0

8

W

D

L

W

D

L

2

2

2

4

1

1

Played

40

Won

13

Drawn

4

Lost

23

Scored

57

Conceded

84

W

D

L

W

D

L

Goal Difference

-27

1

3

3

3

0

4

Position

16th

2014/15 RECORD 0

Wins

1

0

Home Wins

1

Played

40

1

Away Wins

0

Won

17

1

Defeats

0

Drawn

16

1

Home Defeats

2

Lost

7

0

Away Defeats

0

Scored

62

8

Score Draws

10

Conceded

42

9

No Score Draws

16

Goal Difference

+20

0

Conceding 1+ goals

0

Position

6th

0

Scoring 1+ goals

0

9

Clean Sheets

16

13

Back To Back Wins

1

Ten years ago my Grandson, Matthew, became a player with the then Squires Gate Juniors, and I used to bring him along. When I saw that the club had a senior team I decided to tale him to watch the first team playing in the NWCFL. Having spent a lifetime watching and photographing the professional game from 1954 until retirement in 2000, I was most impressed with the quality, and sportsmanship, organisation of football at the grass roots. It was a new beginning for me and I made so many friends at both the club, and in the league. I wanted to become involved, but at 65 I knew I wasn’t getting picked for the team! So I offered my services as a photographer, I already did photographs of the junior sides, and became a devoted follower of Non League football.

Having witnessed and photographed some great games at the Gate, the match that is most memorable for me was our trip to Hillingdon Borough, in Uxbridge, in the last 16 of the FA Vase. It was an overnighter - a coach load of players and fans, but felt more like friends. We lost, but I felt proud of the team, who were on top form.

It was a game where the best team didn’t win!

I have been lucky to have been able to follow a career which took me to different countries and photographed the best players; Stanley Matthews, Bobby Charlton, George Best, Pele, and Diego Maradona, to name but a few. Now I focus my lens on our players, who I feel will show that they are capable of climbing up the league this season, under the guidance of Danny Penswick, and hope that we can attract more spectators to see the best open secret in football.

“Grassroots is footballs past, and the future” We have several players who have potential to play at a higher level, it all depends on what they do now. We give them the platform to improve their skills, at a club with a great playing surface, nurtured and cared for by Brian ‘Taddy’ Addison, and his hard working team of volunteers, who also maintain the stadium. I know I speak for all at Squires Gate when I say nothing would give us more pleasure to see any of our boys reach their goal in the future.

My prediction for today’s game is that our team will be all out to do us proud. May the best team win So long as it is Squires Gate!

©Albert Cooper. All rights reserved.

Albert has allowed the use of his photographs exclusively to our programme.

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.

JULY

Sun 5

15:00 Rishton FC

H

7-2

Friendly

Sun 12

15:00 Longsands FC

A

0-7

Friendly

Sun 06

14:15 Clifton Rangers

H

8-2

League

Thu 10

18:15 St Annes

H

9-0

League

Sun 20

14:15 Foxhall

A

2-5

League

Sun 27

14:15 Bispham Vipers

H

12-2

League

Sun 04

14:15 Euxton Villa

H

12-3

Cup

Sun 11

14:15 Lytham Juniors

A

2-5

League

Sun 18

14:15 Thornton Cleveleys Blues

A

League

Sun 25

14:15 Eccleston & Heskin

A

Cup

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

Mick Bishops boys will face 9th placed Thornton Cleveleys Blues away tomorrow. They go into the game having scored 24 goals in the last 2 games so confidence will be high, and there will be plenty of goals.

After their previous 12-3 cup win over Euxton Villa, they will face Eccleston & Heskin in the next round on the 25th October.

Kick off 2:15.

P

W

D

L

PTS

1

Squires Gate

5

5

0

0

15

2

BJFF Blades

4

4

0

0

12

3

Foxhalll

4

3

1

0

10

4

BJFF Vipers

5

3

0

2

9

5

Poulton FC

3

3

0

0

9

6

Lytham Juniors

3

2

0

1

6

7

Clifton Rangers

3

1

0

2

3

8

St Annes

5

1

0

4

3

9

Thornton Cleveleys Blue

4

1

0

3

3

10 Foxhall Hoops

4

0

1

3

1

11 Blackpool Rangers

4

0

0

4

0

12 Fleetwood Gym

4

0

0

4

0

We interviewed Leicester and West Didsbury fan Peter Jones, and asked him some questions about West Didsbury and football in general. Find out which Premier League player he thinks would enjoy the Chorlton lifestyle

After the first couple of months of the season, how do you think West Didsbury have coped so far? Are you happy with the performances and results?

It’s been a tricky start to the season with a new manager Steve Settle taking over from Andy Nelson who pretty much built the club up to where it is. But, to pardon the pun, Steve has really settled in now and has been able to pick a team that is working well. We’ve definitely got a defensive mishap in us at any moment but it’s starting to click and hopefully we can push on to midtable.

With one of the smaller budgets in the league, the hope is to continue to establish West Didsbury & Chorlton as a club in the league, grow the supporter base and to be able to break the bar takings record week on week.

What has been your best performance/result?

The obvious one would be the 15-1 win in the FA Vase recently which is unlike any game I have ever been to at non league or professional level but more impressive was actually the 5-1 win at Abbey Hey last weekend. From the keeper making penalty saves to our forward players banging in the goals, it was a superb game of football.

Within your time watching West Didsbury, what has been the best game you’ve seen?

My first ever game at West featured them scoring a last gasp winner to be promoted to the NWC Premier Division which was what got me hooked on the club. Big shout out to Callum Jones who scuffed in the winner at the death.

But it would have to be the final game of last season or ‘Andy Nelson Day’ as it will be known. Andy was retiring wand we had an impressive Runcorn Linnets team coming down here. It had everything: blazing sunshine, ice cold beers, a returning former West player not doing anything, the chairman getting a round in and most importantly, a win!

And Nelson running down the line high fiving the supporters as the second goal went in was incredible too! It was also impressive to the see the Linnets staff and players stick around to give Andy the respect and send off that he deserved, it encapsulated the non league family and ethos.

If you could bring 3 PL players of your choice to the club. Who would they be and why?

As a Leicester fan, I need to pick at least one current player so let’s go for Jamie Vardy as he has the non league experience and would happily bully defenders all game long. It would also be nice for Nick Evangelinos who formerly was on the books at Leicester to play alongside him.

Juan Mata would love the Chorlton lifestyle so he definitely can come down. He could drink continental lagers with the supporters after the game and pop into the many amazing pubs near the Recreation Ground to discuss tactics, arthouse cinema and literature.

To even out the Manchester bias, we’ll go for a City player in Yaya Toure who would not only boss the midfield and score goals but would also have his ego massaged by the supporters on the touchline. Birthday cards, Christmas cards, Valentines cards, he’d get them all! Plus, just imagine Yaya and Gary Lilley in the heart of midfield - terrifying and electrifying.

Which teams are you looking forward to going up against?

As ever the derby games against Maine Road are the ones that we look out for. I’ve never seen West beat them so this season has to be the time that we change that. In both games last season, we didn’t really do ourselves justice so I’m really looking forward to the Boxing Day clash.

Supporters will be congregating in the Marble Bar in Chorlton from opening time to toast the festive season.

After your 15-1 result in the Vase against Dinnington Town, how do you rate your chances in the competition?

As fun as it was (and I only felt guilty at 13-1!) Dinnington were a young team made up of good people who were clearly out of their depth. Their keeper was 16 but still made some world class saves.

Basically, we’re not getting carried away and in the next round we face a good strong Morpeth team.

That aside, a friend made a cardboard and tin foil FA Vase which I would love to walk down Wembley Way for the final but only if they let me take my dog into the game as I do at every West home game!

Which West Didsbury players do you think will cause the most attacking threat to the opponents this season?

Nic Evangelinos has just returned to the club after his university summer break and has already been scoring for fun. It’s really made a difference having him at the club and it’s helped Ashley Woods get amongst the goals too!

Squires Gate got 6 points off West Didsbury last season but have struggled so far.

How do you think Gate will get on this season?

I’ll be honest with you, I’m not really in a position to comment on any of the other clubs in the league. It’d be more embarrassing and uninformed as Garth Crookes’ Team Of The Week on the BBC website.

Finally, what’s your prediction for today’s game?

I’m going to say 3-2 to West Didsbury - We like scoring but less so defending so here’s hoping for a good game enjoyed by both teams.

Why not join in our new prediction league for FREE! All you need to do if you want to get your name in the programme is send your predictions to haydendan@live.co.uk before 14:50 today. It is 10 points for a correct score, and 5 points for a correct result!

This weekend we have Squires Gate volunteer Denise, and goalkeeper Ben Fletcher.

From West Didsbury & Chorlton we have Peter Jones.

Ben

Denise

Peter

Chelsea vs Aston Villa

2-1

1-1

3-1

Everton vs Man United

0-1

1-2

2-1

Man City vs Bournemouth

4-0

3-0

5-0

Southampton vs Leicester

2-1

2-1

2-2

Watford vs Arsenal

0-3

0-3

0-2

Middlesbrough vs Fulham

0-1

1-1

2-1

Preston vs Cardiff

1-1

1-0

0-1

Coventry vs Blackpool

2-0

1-2

0-7

Oldham vs Sheffield United

0-0

1-2

1-1

Fleetwood vs Burton Albion

1-0

1-2

0-3

Your Prediction

Name

Team

Pts

1

Spencer Leader

Squires Gate

40

2

Daniel Hayden

Squires Gate

35

3

Mark Halliwell

Irlam

35

4

Albert Cooper

Squires Gate

25

5

Brian Addison

Squires Gate

25

6

Jay Hayden

Squires Gate

25

7

John Maguire

Squires Gate

25

8

Mark Ashmore

Squires Gate

25

9

Mark Morrissey

Irlam

25

10

Mick Fletcher

Colne

25

11

Josh Kay

Squires Gate

20

12

Stuart Hopwood

Squire Gate

20

13

Chris Appleton

Winsford United

15

14

Paul Eke

Gateshead

15

15

Peter Barton

Ashton Athletic

15

16

Ray Richards

Squires Gate

15

24.10.2015, KO 15:00 The Men United Cup Round 2

BY ROAD

PUBS

M60 junction 7,a56 towards Manchester, A5145 (Stockport), A6010 Wilbraham road to Chorlton. Left at the traffic lights into Withington Road, 1st eft into Brantingham Road.

If you are looking for a pub to go to before the game, then here are many pubs in Manchester Town Centre.

Here are a list of some:

The ground is on the left.

Sinclair's Oyster Bar

PARKING

But the closest pub to the ground is;

There is free parking outside the ground and in the clubs car park.

BY TRAIN Chorlton Metro Link.

To get to the Ground from the station.

You walk straight up Willbraham road then just after the church turn left onto Morville road and ground will be at end of the road.

Port Street Beer House The Marble Arch

Hardy’s Well

LAST TIME The last time Gate played at Maine Road was back in November 2014, where gate won 3-2 thanks to goals from Mark Buchan and Alex Murphy.

THEIR LAST GAME Atherton Collieries 2 Maine Road 2

CURRENT FORM LLLLWD

Altrincham - 4, FC Halifax Town - 1, Chelmsford City -8, Forest Green Rovers - 7, AFC Telford United - 5, Boston United - 3, Havant & Waterlooville - 2, Grays Athletic - 6, Truro City - 8, North Ferriby United - 10, Hemel Hempstead Town - 9, Arbroath - 13, Peterhead - 11, Alloa Athletic - 17, Basingstoke - 16, Berwick Rangers - 14, Weston Super Mare - 12.

Hemel Hempstead Town North Ferriby United Truro City Grays Athletic Havant & Waterlooville Boston United AFC Telford United Forest Green Rovers

Weston-Super-Mare Berwick Rangers Basingstoke Alloa Athletic

FC Halifax Town

Peterhead

Chelmsford City

Ayr

Altrincham

Arbroath 8 2 12 7

16 6 9

5 3 4

10

1 15 14 17 13 11

Atherton Collieries (A) Monday 19th October 2015 Adler Street, Atherton, M46 9EY Kick Off: 19.45 Adults £5, Concessions £3 Maine Road (A) Saturday 24th October 2015 Brantigham Road, Chorlton-Cum-Hardy, M21 0TT Kick Off:15.00 Adults £5, Concessions £3 Padiham (H) Saturday 31st October 2015 The Royal British Legion Stadium

Kick Off: 15.00 Adults £6, Concessions £3 AFC Darwen (H) Tuesday 3rd November 2015 The Royal British Legion Kick Off: 19.45 Adults £6, Concessions £3 Cammell Laird 1907 (A) Saturday 7th November 2015 North West Construction Stadium, CH42 1PY Kick Off: 15.00 Adults £5, Concessions £2

Winsford United (H) Saturday 14th November 2015 The Royal British Legion Kick Off: 15.00 Adults £6, Concessions £3

Ben FLETCHER

Saul LOMAX-NEWTON

Andrew RICHARDS

Callum JONES

Billy MCKENNA

Scott JONES

Joshua WESTWOOD

Richmond BOTCHEY

Daniel PENSWICK Brett FERGUSON Alex MCKENDRICK

Referee Ian Gittins

Jordan POOLE

Joshua KAY

Nathan TROUT Aaron CLARKE Stephen HIGGINS Conah BISHOP Ryan RILEY Joe NOBLET Antony STAYTE

Mark ROGERS

Sam DEE

Ashley ROWLEY

Michael HALL

Steve BROCKLEY

Michael SIMCOCK

Mark BUCHAN

Alex COLQUHOUN

Anthony POTTS

Assistant Referees David Gillon

Matt ECKERSLEY

Lewis SCHOFIELD Steve SETTLE

Liam Marshall

Scott MASON Lee GAVIN Ric GLEAVE Ashley WOODS Jonathan POIZER Matty KAY Daniel RUSSELL Tommy WALSH Jamie WALDON Ben STEER Nic EVANGELINOS