St Helens Town v Chadderton FA Vase 2016-17 by John McKiernan

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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Team Line-Ups CLUB INFORMATION Honorary Life President: Alan Wellens Vice Presidents: Jim Barrett and Steve Ball Chairman: John McKiernan (07713 339682)

Saturday 10th September 2016, kick off 3pm The Buildbase FA Vase, 1st Qualifying Round St Helens Town

Gls Y R

Vice Chairman: Glyn Jones

Hon. Secretary/Treasurer: Jeff Voller (07843 692695)

Mathew Hodge

Hospitality: Margaret Wood and Paul Wood

Dane Smith Andrew Bainbridge Dale Minor Samuel Gibson

Cole Ashton

Elliott Messam

Phil Williams

Luke Heron

Sam Sheen

Jack Tuohy

1st Team Coach Lee Jenkinson

Danny Greene

1st Team Physiotherapists Ellie Hayes & Paige Marcus

George Lomax

Chris Lomax Jacob Ball Adam Donohue Managers: Alan Gillespie and Nick Matthews

James Curley Gareth Hill Nicholas Alexander Michael Smith Vincent Howell Matthew Chilton Scott Foster Grant Marshall Manager: Mark Howard Assistant: Ian Hulme

Referee: Mr T Elliott (Salford) Assist: Mr M Watkins (Altrincham) & Ms C Phillips (Sale)

U18s Assistant Manager: Patrick Dooney Sunday Team Manager: David Platt

Match Sponsor

Club Email: sthelenstownfc@hotmail.co.uk

Top Car Detailing

Main Club Sponsor: Johnsons Toyota Liverpool Shirt Sponsor: Freestart plc Legal: St Helens Town Limited Private Limited Company Company No. 04392840 Date of Incorporation 12.03.2002 Company Director: Jim Barrett

Gls Y R

Benjamin Fletcher

Andy Webster

Ste Rigby

U21s Team Manager: John McLaughlan

Daniel Brady

Eddie Pegler

1st Team Joint Managers: Alan Gillespie & Nick Matthews

Red Shirts Black Shorts & Socks

Andy Presho

Andy Gillespie

Trustee: John McKiernan

U18s Team Manager: Colin Hamlet

Hamish Falconer

Full Committee: John McKiernan, Jeff Voller, Jim Barrett, Ste Ball, Andy Langley Paul Wood, Margaret Wood, Kieran Ford, Chris Ford & Glyn Jones

U21s Assistant Manager: Lee Jenkinson

Chadderton

Blue Shirts Blue Shorts, Blue & White Socks

Unit 17 Gerrard Park, College Street, St Helens Match Ball Sponsors

Cuncannon

Fire and Flood Damage Restoration Specialists

Parent Company: A wholly owned subsidiary of Sporting Club St Helens Limited

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Next Home Game: Town v Widnes

Hallmark Security League Thurs 15th Sept 2016, 7.45pm Volair Park, Prescot Cables FC

Cover Photograph: Danny Greene and Ste Rigby

Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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Talk of the Town Good afternoon and welcome to Volair Park for this Buildbase FA Challenge Vase, 1st Qualifying Round tie against familiar opponents in Chadderton! May I open by welcoming our visitors I hope they enjoy the short time they will spend with us and have a safe journey home after the game. It been just over a week since we were last here at Volair Park as we took on Prestwich Heys. The game got off to a bad start for Town as we fell behind in the 13th minute but just after the half hour mark Phil Williams made it three goals in two games when he headed home from close range to level matters and this was how the teams went into the interval. The hosts then took the lead less than ten minutes after the restart when Chris Lomax netted his first goal since returning to the club. After this Prestwich threw everything at Town as they looked to level matters and finally managed to do so in the 82nd minute. This visitors thought they had been awarded a penalty in the latter stages of the contest but the play was pulled back for an offside in the build up and the spoils were shared by both teams. We then moved on to Crilly Park to take on an Atherton LR outfit who were looking to bounce back from an 8-0 reverse at the hands of City of Liverpool on Bank Holiday Monday. Midway through the half Town took the lead when Danny Greene fired home but the lead only lasted 12 minutes as an Own Goal saw LR level before George Lomax quickly restored the visitors advantage going into the break and the next time the scoreboard moved was on the hour when former Town man Adam Owens netted a leveller to start a barmy spell which saw LR net three times in 6 minutes to go from 1-2 down to 4-2 up. Town created so many chances in the contest and on another day they would have won comfortably but were made to pay for wastefulness in front of goal. A quick turnaround saw us take the short trip to Bootle to take on another new team in the league, City of Liverpool. It wasn’t a good evening for Town against an impressive side schooled by long-time Runcorn Town manager Simon Burton and stacked with plenty of players with experience at higher levels of the pyramid. The first goal of the contest came through Francis Barry on 20 minutes, this started a three goal salvo as Barry netted a second before another former Town man Daley Woods netted a third. After the break Tom Peterson added a fourth and George Lomax netted a consolation for Town before a late goal saw the hosts record a 5-1 victory. It has been an inconsistent start to the season for Town as we have impressed at times and spluttered at others, recording two win, two draws and four defeats in out opening eight contests. Focus turns from the league to our first cup contest of the season the FA Vase in what is the 30th anniversary season of our victory under the famous twin-towers of the old Wembley Stadium. In that season as this we started in the initial round of games and we would defiantly take a repeat of the events of that season this term! Whilst Town were going down 5-1 on Tuesday evening Chadderton were strolling to victory by the same scoreline at home against Ashton Town. The visitors have had a mixed start to the season having won 4 out of their 10 league contests drawing two and losing four. There have been 49 goals in Chadderton’s games so far and 42 in Town’s so we should be guaranteed goals this afternoon and I’ll be happy as long as we score one more than the visitors. The winners of this afternoons tie will visit the winners of the Maltby Main Vs Widnes tie which also takes place this afternoon. Let’s get behind Town this afternoon and hopefully cheer them into the next round! Enjoy the game . . . Jeff Voller

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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In Town Today Ground: ARK Fleetech Stadium Address: Andrew Street, Chadderton, Oldham, Greater Manchester OL9 0JT Registered Colours: Red & White Shirts, White Shorts, Red Stockings Secretary: David Shepherd Chairman: Bob Sopel Manager: Mark Howard Year Formed: 1946 Record Attendance: 2,352 v. F.C. United of Manchester, 2006 Honours: 1954-55 Winners Oldham Amateur League - Challenge Cup 1955-56 Champions Manchester Amateur League 1959-60 Winners Manchester County F.A. Youth Cup 1960-61 Runners Up Manchester County F.A Youth Cup 1961-62 Winners Alfred Pettit & Hulme Celtic Cup 1962-63 Champions Manchester Amateur League Div 1 1964-65 Champions Manchester League Division 2 1965-66 Winners Manchester League Murray Shield 1966-67 Champions Manchester League Div 1 1969-70 Winners Manchester League Gilgryst Cup 1971-72 Winners Manchester County FA Challenge Trophy 1972-73 Runners up Manchester County FA Challenge Trophy 1981-82 Runners up Lancashire Combination Cup 1982-83 Runners up Manchester County Premier Cup 1985-86 Champions Bass N.W.C League Reserve Division Cup 1990-91 Runners up Bass N.W.C League Reserve Division Cup 1991-92 Champions Bass N.W.C League Reserve Division Cup 1992-93 Runners up Tennants Floodlit Cup 1999-00 Winners Umbro International Cup

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Chadderton Football Club was formed in 1947, under the name Millbrow Football Club, later changing to North Chadderton Amateurs, before adopting its present name in 1957. The Club started life in the Oldham Amateur League, winning the Challenge Cup in 1954/55. The following season the Club joined the Manchester Amateur League and won the League Championship in their first season.

After winning the League Championship again in 1962/63, Chadderton then joined the Manchester League winning the Second Division title in their first season and gaining promotion to the First Division. The Club won the League`s Murray Shield in their first season in Division One, and then the League title in 1966/67. During the 1970`s the Clubs only honours came in the form of the Manchester Challenge Trophy which they won in 1971/72, but failed to retain it in the following season, finishing runners-up. Chadderton made the step into a higher grade of football in 1980 when they joined the Lancashire Combination. The Club made a good start in this league, finishing runners-up in 1981/82. In 1982, Chadderton became one of the founder members of the North West Counties Football League, following the merger of the Lancashire Combination and the Cheshire County League. The Club gained promotion to Division One in 1989/90 after finishing third in the league, but were relegated the following season. Promotion came once again in 1992/93 but, after failing to meet ground grading requirements, were relegated in 1998/99. Chadderton`s proudest moments have come in seeing the progression of its former players, such as former England captain David Platt, Former Leeds United and Crystal Palace player, John Pemberton and Northern Ireland International, Steve Jones. Former player Mike Ford forged a successful career in both codes of Rugby and Mark Owen of Take That also once pulled on the red shirt of Chadderton FC! Paul Buckley, with his assistant Derek Ogden, joined Chadderton FC as manager in December 2005. Since then the Clubs fortunes have taken a turn for the better on the field. Chadderton finished in 5th position in 2006/2007 - the highest position for over a decade and in 2007/2008 Chadderton again acheived 5th place and reached the semi finals of both the League and Division Cup. In the 2008-2009 season Chadderton finished in mid-table. A quarter-final appearance against League newcomers and favourites AFC Liverpool ended in a tight 3-2 defeat. That came after beating League Winners Bootle 2-1 in the previous round. Off the field in 2007, the Club was the subject of a take-over by local businessmen Craig Halliwell and Tony Bhatti, the joint owners of The HB Property Group Limited (previously The Halliwell Bhatti Group) which is the parent company of the local

Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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Chadderton property development company Hillstone Developments Limited. The members of Chadderton voted overwhelmingly in October 2006 for the take-over to go ahead and after 10 long months the legalities were finally completed in August 2007. In August 2009 Chadderton`s association with The HB Property Group Limited was terminated and Chadderton Football Club reverted to a members club run by the people for the people. At the end of Season 2012/13 manager Paul Buckley was forced to stand down through ill health, with Derek Ogden going coaching in America the vacant managers position was offered to Steve Patterson, Steve was Paul’s assistant and also played for Chadderton in the nineties, Steve brought in another ex player Mark Cook as is assistant and Matty McNeil, Steve Mark and Matty hope to better last Season’s position in the League. Season 2014-15 saw Chadderton reach the last 32 in the FA Vase only to be knocked out by AFC Mansfield, they also reached the NWCFL First Division play offs only to be beaten at the Semi–Final stage by AFC Darwen the eventual winners. Last season saw Chadderton have a hit and miss season as they failed to build on their good form the previous term as they exited both the FA Cup and FA Vase at the first hurdles and finished the season in 14th position in the league. A new management team of Mark Howard and Ian Hulme are in place and Chadderton will be looking to kick on and improve on last seasons inconsistent performances.

Season 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16

League NWC-2 NWC-2 NWC-2 NWC-2 NWC-2 NWC-2 NWC-2 NWC-1 NWC-1 NWC-1 NWC-1 NWC-1 NWC-1 NWC-1 NWC-1

P 40 34 38 36 36 34 34 34 32 34 34 34 36 36 34

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W 15 5 7 7 13 18 19 14 14 18 13 10 12 18 9

D 5 5 11 7 8 7 4 6 8 6 10 9 8 6 8

L 20 24 20 22 15 9 11 14 10 10 11 15 16 12 17

F 65 33 42 40 51 59 55 60 54 64 53 52 58 68 43

A 81 80 63 94 62 35 52 54 46 48 51 69 71 56 53

GD -16 -47 -21 -54 -11 24 3 6 8 16 2 -17 -13 12 -10

Pts 50 20 32 28 44 61 61 48 50 60 49 39 41 60 35

Position 15/21 18/18 18/20 17/19 13/19 5/18 5/18 10/18 4/17 6/18 6/18 12/18 13/19 6/19 14/18

Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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Chairman’s Notes Good afternoon and a very warm welcome to Volair Park, home of Prescot Cables, for The Buildbase FA Vase 1st Qualifying Round game v Chadderton. Welcome especially to the players, officials and supporters of today’s visitors Chadderton along with the match officials and our own home support. We welcome today’s match sponsor Top Car Detailing and today’s match ball sponsors Cuncannon Fire and Flood Damage Specialists – thank you for your continued support. We are always on the look out for new sponsors - programme, match, match ball, pitch side advertising plus lots more. Please get in touch if you can help! It’s been a tough week for the lads with a really disappointing result at Atherton LR last Saturday. While conditions were difficult we simply defended poorly and failed to take our chances. The proved to be frustrating for all involved and to score only two from almost thirty efforts is a really poor return, especially with the personnel we have. Tuesday evening was less frustrating but equally disappointing in some respects. Our trip to City of Liverpool was always going to be a difficult one but once again we gifted our hosts a couple of goals which saw them lead 3-0 at the break. We did have plenty of chances and battled well in the second half before eventually losing 5-1 in front of a superb crowd of 608 containing a very healthy away contingent which bodes well for a return to St Helens. It was 30 years ago this month (Saturday 6th September) that Town made their debut in the FA Vase. Town took on Colne Dynamoes and it turned out to be quite a day! St. Helens found themselves 2-0 down at half-time to goals from ex-Blackburn and Leeds United striker Kevin Hird and former Burnley midfielder Andy Wharton. Worse was to come after the interval, as Hird scored his second before a resurgent Town netted three times in 15 minutes, through Brian Rigby, Tony Williams and Phil Layhe. Wharton then scored again for the visitors but Rigby’s second tied the scores at 4-4. Into extra-time and still the drama was not over. Defender John Bendon was sent-off, reducing Town to 10 men, but up popped Jimmy Collins, who blasted home the winner from 30 yards out. Town won 5-4. The rest as they say is history as Town went on to Wembley glory seven months later! We are at ‘home’ again next Thursday when Widnes are the visitors (as long as we do not have a midweek replay if today’s game is level after 90 minutes and extra time). Finally, I’d like to wish Alan Gillespie (joint manager) well as he heads off to America for a short spell due to family commitments. I am sure he will be keeping an eye on results and will be in regular contact with Nick and myself. Enjoy the game . . . . John McKiernan Chairman St Helens Town AFC 07713 339 682

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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The world this week I take a trip down memory and discover what events happened in the history of St Helens Town, sport in general and provide a reminder of any historical world events that occurred in this week in history. The week of 4th September – 11th September Last Season: St Helens Town – 5th and 9th September 2015 Town advance in the FA Vase with a 4-0 victory over Winterton Rangers, before losing 3-1 away to Litherland REMYCA 4 days later. Sport – 10th September 2015 The 2015 NFL season began with the Super Bowl XLIX champion New England Patriots hosting the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Patriots defeated the Steelers, 28-21. World – 9th September 2015 Queen Elizabeth II becomes Great Britain's longest-reigning monarch at 63 years and seven months, beating the previous record set by her great-greatgrandmother, Queen Victoria.

Winterton Rangers 0-4 Town FA Carlsberg Vase Saturday 5th September 2015

Federer beats Andy Roddick (6-2, 4-6, 7-5, 6-1)

10 Years Ago: St Helens Town – 5th and 9th September 2006 Town exited the FA Cup at the Preliminary Round stage with a 3-0 home defeat to local rivals Skelmesdale United. They travelled to Glossop North End and succumbed to a 4-0 loss. Sport – 10th September 2006 126th Men's U.S. Open: Roger

World - 7th September 2006 Sacha Baron Cohen's mockumentary "Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan" premieres at the Toronto Film Festival 20 Years Ago: St Helens Town: - 4th,7th & 10th September 1996 – Town progress in the FA Cup Prelininary round with a 2-1 replay win over Peterlee Newtown. Town then followed this up with an FA Vase 1st Qualifying Round 4-3 extra time victory against Haslingden followed by a 3-2 away defeat to Holker Old Boys. Sport – 8th September 1996 116th Men's U.S. Open: Pete Sampras beats Michael Chang (6-1, 6-4, 7-6) World – 7th September 1996 Rap artist Tupac Shahur shot multiple times in drive by shooting in Las Vegas, dies 6 days later. The Vase Year – 1987: St Helens Town – 5th & 8th September 1987 In a repeat of the historic FA Vase final, St Helens this time lose to Warrington Town 3-2, the same score that they had beaten them just months prior. They amended this with a 4-0 victory against Atherton LR. Sport – 5th September 1987 - 2nd World Championships in Athletics: Carl Lewis wins gold in Men's Long Jump World – 6th September 1987 Conjoined twins Benjamin & Patrick Binder separated at John Hopkins Hospital

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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How We Compare? at St Helens Previous Meetat Town ings Chadderton

St Helens Town - last 6 matches All Competitions

Most recent

NWC-D1

2001-02

NWC-D2

Home

NWC-D1

2002-03

NWC-D2

Away

NWC-D1

2003-04

NWC-D2

NWC-D1

2004-05

NWC-D2

NWC-D1

2005-06

NWC-D2

NWC-D1

2006-07

NWC-D2

NWC-D1

2007-08

NWC-D2

NWC-PD

2008-09

NWC-D1

Collated

Chadderton - last 6 matches All Competitions

Most recent

Home

NWC-PD

2009-10

NWC-D1

Away

NWC-PD

2010-11

NWC-D1

Collated

NWC-PD

2011-12

NWC-D1

NWC-PD

2012-13

NWC-D1

NWC-PD

2013-14

NWC-D1

NWC-PD

2014-15

NWC-D1

10/10; 3-1

2015-16

08/08; 3-1

22/10/2016

2016-17

04/03/2017

St Helens Town games since...

Chadderton games since...

All Competitions

Clean sheet

St Helens Town Scores First Games Played

St Helens Town Wins

Draws

Chadderton Wins

St Helens Town Goals

Goal Scored

Loss

No score draw

Score draw

Win

Chadderton Goals

Percentage Town Wins

100.00

Previous Meetings All Competitions P

Win %

Home

54.55

Away

-9

9.09

Collated

-3

31.82

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

Ruskin Update

Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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Tea Break Teasers Q1. Which Serie A team are nicknamed “The Greyhounds”?

Q2. Which player finished the 2014-15 season as League One’s top scorer? Q3. Which team have reached three UEFA Cup/Europa League Finals without ever winning the trophy? Q4. Which team have spent the most seasons in France’s Ligue 1? Q5. Which teams compete in the Mid-Ulster derby? Q6. How many goals did Jamie Vardy score in all competitions in his first season at Leicester City? Q7. Which three goalkeepers played during Arsenal’s 2001-2 double winning season? Q8. With which club did Carlo Ancelotti begin his managerial career in 1995? Q9. Which Scottish League outfit play their home games at Somerset Park? Q10. With how many Premier League or Football League clubs has Peter Crouch scored a league goal? Q11. Against which nation did Wayne Rooney make his full international debut in February 2003? Q12. Which record is held jointly by Rosario Central’s Cesar Delgado along with Lionel Messi & Luis Suarez? Q13. In which country does Southern United play their league football? Q14. Which club connects Roberto Carlos, Florent Malouda and John Arne Riise? Q15. Which Bundesliga club nicknames the Billy Goats?

are

1) Bologna 2) Joe Garner of Preston 3) Benfica (1983, 2013 & 2014) 4) Sochaux (66) 5) Portadown & Glenavon 6) Five 7) David Seaman, Richard Wright & Stuart Taylor 8) Reggiana 9) Aye United 10) Eight (QPR, Portsmouth, Aston Villa, Norwich City, Southampton, Liverpool, Spurs & Stoke) 11) Australia 12) Scored most goals in FIFA Club World Cup (5) 13) New Zealand 14) Delhi Dynamos 15) FC Koln

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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From The Dugout Good afternoon everybody and welcome this afternoon to Volair Park home of Prescot Cables for this afternoons FA Vase game against Chadderton. We come into the tie on the back of two disappointing results. A 4-2 reverse at Atherton LR last Saturday was particularly disappointing given the statistics recorded that we had 30 attempts on goal compared to the home sides 7.

Defensively we have been poor in most games this season conceding far too many sloppy goals and this trend continued at a packed Delta Taxi stadium for a Merseyside Derby with the newly formed City of Liverpool FC The result ended in a 5-1 reverse was which was very harsh given a fine second half in which we took the game to the Purples and created some good opportunities to reduce the deficit but the game was lost at half time. I thought we were very unlucky not to be awarded a penalty when the game was locked at 0-0 but unfortunately the Referee didn't agree. Behind the scenes we are disappointed to say goodbye George and Chris Lomax. The talented brothers have both decided to move on and we wish them all the best for the future. On a brighter note we have brought in youngsters Jake Ball from Prescot Cables and Adam Donohue from Runcorn Linnets both lads are defenders so it's certainly an area we need strengthen. We are also looking to complete a number of other signings to strengthen our squad as the season enters its winter phase.

Enjoy the game today and it would be great if we could get the volume of support we enjoyed from a large St Helens contingent in the amazing 600 plus crowd at City of Liverpool. Unfortunately for me this will be my last game in joint charge for a couple of months as I will be away on family business in the USA. Alan Gillespie 1st Team Joint Manager

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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Club News Great support from the Liverpool County FA

St Helens Town are to benefit from discretionary funding to help them with the costs of returning to St Helens. Town will return to the borough after a five year absence, having played ‘home’ games as tenants at fellow NWCFL clubs Ashton Town and Ashton Athletic. The club’s new home at Ruskin Drive Sports ground is currently under construction and is due to completion at the end of August where they will join Cheshire League outfit Pilkington FC.

Club Chairman John McKiernan said, ‘I contacted the County FA to see if they were able to offer any financial support as we planned the move to the new ground. ‘We received a great response from Chief Executive Dave Pugh and have been allocated £1000 to help towards any of the costs or purchases we may need to make as part of our relocation. He added, ‘We’ve had fantastic support from County FA officials during our exile and their efforts in supporting our return home have been considerable alongside those of St Helens Council officers and FA Regional Facilities & Investment Manager Alice Watson. ‘It is all too easy to say the County FA only deals with disciplinary matters and hands out fines for player cautions and dismissals but they have helped the club ensure its long term future at Ruskin Drive and this financial support is greatly appreciated by everyone at the club’ www.liverpoolfa.com

Kiera's Occasions Man of the Match Congratulations to Chris Lomax (pictured above left) and George Lomax (centre) who collected their Kiera’s Occasions Man of the Match Awards for the home games v Sandbach United and Prestwich Heys respectively. Pictured with Joint 1st Team Manager Nick Matthews.

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

Danny Greene in action at Charnock Richard on Saturday 27th August 2016

Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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Match Sponsors We are looking for additional sponsors on match-days with a host of benefits for both match (£100) and match ball (£50) sponsors including free entry & programme; hospitality, programme and social media advertising; pre-match photos, man of the match awards. Contact John McKiernan on 07713 339 682 for more details. Date

Opponents

Match Sponsor

Match Ball Sponsor

Thu 18/08/16

Sandbach United

Beer EnGin, Whiston

Johnsons Toyota Liverpool

Thu 01/09/16

Prestwich Heys

Johnsons Toyota Liverpool

Cuncannon

Sat 10/09/16

Chadderton (FAV)

Top Car Detailing

Cuncannon

Thu 15/09/16

Widnes

Sat 01/10/16

AFC Darwen (Macron Cup)

Sat 15/10/16

Carlisle City

Sat 22/10/16

Chadderton

Beechley Stables, RDA

Thu 10/11/16

Cheadle Town

Invisible Heroes

Thu 17/11/16

Ashton Town

Sat 19/11/16

Eccleshall

Sat 26/11/16

FC Oswestry Town

Thu 01/12/16

Alsager Town

Sat 10/12/16

Bacup Borough

Mon 26/12/16 Litherland REMYCA

Thatto Heath Tech Shop

Michael Allison

Stillia

Conor McGinn

Action Coach NW

Danny’s Window Cleaning Toast Café

Stuart Pyke The Track King

Kiera’s Occasions

Kiera’s Occasions Britannia Taxis

Sat 07/01/17

Holker Old Boys

LM Travel

Sat 21/01/17

AFC Blackpool

Action Coach NW

Sat 28/01/17

Whitchurch Alport

Invisible Heroes

Sat 11/02/17

Silsden

North West Dog Rescue

Sat 18/03/17

Daisy Hill

Invisible Heroes

Sat 25/03/17

Stockport Town

Live Wire Electrical

Sat 01/04/17

Atherton LR

John Cahill

Sun 16/04/17

City of Liverpool FC

The Boar’s Head

Sat 29/04/17

Charnock Richard

Toast Café

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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Team Fixtures St Helens Town Sunday Liverpool &District Sunday League 04/09/16 12:00 Cool IT P-P Town 08/09/16 18:30 Hunting Lodge 3-0 Town 11/09/16 11:00 Fulwood Arms v Town St Helens Town U21s Cheshire FA U21s League Premier Division Results Lge 24/08/16 Manchester Central Reserves 0-4 Town Cup 21/08/16 Atherton Town 2-2 Town (Town won 1-3 on pens) Lge 18/08/16 Southport 2-2 Town Fixtures Cup 11/09/16 11:00 Glossop North End v Town Cup 18/09/16 11:00 BRNESC Reserves v Town Lge 25/09/16 14:00 Atherton Town v Town Cup 02/10/16 12:30 Abbey Hey v Town Lge 09/10/16 12:45 Town v Irlam

Lge 16/10/16 12:30 Abbey Hey v Town Lge 23/10/16 12:45 Town v Stockport Town Lge 30/10/16 11:00 Malvern v Town Lge 06/11/16 12:45 Town v Atherton Town Lge 13/11/16 12:45 Town v Southport Lge 17/11/16 19:45 Irlam v Town Lge 20/11/16 12:45 Town v Manchester Central Lge 27/11/16 12:45 Town v Malvern Lge 04/12/16 12:45 Town v West Kirby Lge 11/12/16 12:30 Stockport Town v Town St Helens Town U18s North West Youth Alliance League Results Lge 21/08/16 14:30 Town 3-5 Chester Colts Lge 04/09/16 14:30 Chester Colts 1-3 Town Cup 08/09/16 19:45 AFC Blackpool 3-4 Town Fixtures Lge 11/09/16 14:30 Town v Marine Lge 18/09/16 14:30 Witton Albion v Town Lge 25/09/16 14:30 Town v Tranmere Rovers Lge 02/10/16 14:30 West Kirby & Wasps v Town Lge 09/10/16 14:30 Town v Heswall Lge 16/10/16 14:30 Town v Vauxhall Motors Cup 23/10/16 14:00 Chester FC v Town Lge 30/10/16 14:30 Tranmere Rovers v Town

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

The road to St. Helens Town: FA Vase Winners - 1987 PART 1 – The first three rounds The FA Vase came into being in 1975 as the replacement for the FA Amateur Cup. St. Helens Town had, before 1986, entered the FA Trophy, but that competition had become dominated by the giants of the non-league game and the chances of Town making progress – and money – in the Trophy were slim. In the Summer of 1986, the club elected to enter the FA Vase for the first time, little knowing that they would go on to lift the prize at Wembley on 25th April 1987. They entered the competition at the Extra-Preliminary Round and were drawn against Colne Dynamoes, a club in the division below Town in the North West Counties League. However, Dynamoes were in a false position, as they had a multimillionaire backer who had the ambition of Football League status for his club. Indeed, they went on to win the FA Vase themselves the following season and a number of rapid promotions led the club to the heady heights of Northern Premier League Champions in 1990. They won the title by a massive 26 points over Gateshead, but failed in their attempt to get promoted to the Conference, Gateshead being elevated in their stead and the Dynamoes ceased to exist as a club, being replaced some years later by the present Colne FC. However, I digress. On 6th September 1986, Town took on Colne Dynamoes in the FA Vase and it turned out to be quite a day! St. Helens found themselves 2-0 down at halftime to goals from ex-Blackburn and Leeds United striker Kevin Hird and former Burnley midfielder Andy Wharton. Worse was to come after the interval, as Hird scored his second before a resurgent Town netted three times in 15 minutes, through Brian Rigby, Tony Williams and Phil Layhe. Wharton then scored again for the visitors but Rigby’s second tied the scores at 4-4. Into extra -time and still the drama was not over. Defender John Bendon was sent-off, reducing Town to 10 men, but up popped Jimmy Collins, who blasted home the winner from 30 yards out. Town won 5-4.

Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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Wembley glory Town’s team was: Andy Johnston; Paul Benson, Barry Lowe, John Bendon and Tony Williams; Jay McComb, Mark Gledhill, Tommy O’Neil and Jimmy Collins; Brian Rigby and Phil Layhe. Subs: Bryan Griffiths (for Gledhill) and Steve Baker. Scorers: Rigby 2, Williams, Layhe, Collins (J). General Chemicals were the visitors to Hoghton Road in the Preliminary Round on 20th September. The West Cheshire League side were considered a fairly safe passage, but a handball by Bendon gifted the Runcorn side the lead from the penalty spot. Gledhill soon equalised but Town could not put their plucky opponents to bed and the game went to extra-time again. Jimmy Collins scored the winner from the penalty spot after Layhe was brought down by the visiting goalkeeper, to give Town a narrow 2-1 victory. Town fielded an unchanged team. Scorers: Gledhill, Collins (J). Another home draw in the First Round, against NWC Second Division side Blackpool Wren Rovers, on 24th October, was the reward. However, skipper Tommy O’Neil had been in dispute with the club in the weeks leading up to the game and, on a real quagmire of a Hoghton Road pitch, injury took its toll and he had to be replaced by Jimmy Collins’ twin brother, Dave. The game was goalless after 90 minutes and, for the third tie in succession, extra-time ensued. Two spectacular goals from Dave Collins (from around 30 yards out) and Marty Cummins, who lobbed the keeper from the half-way line, gave Town a 2-0 victory. Town’s team was: Johnston, Benson, Williams, Lowe and Bendon; Marty Cummins, O’Neil, Jimmy Collins, John Deakin; McComb and Layhe. Subs: Dave Collins (for O’Neil) and Gary Laird. Scorers: Cummins, Collins (D). Glyn Jones

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

Match Statistics 201 Date

Opponents

Comp

Result

Aug 06

Carlisle City

NWCFL

3.00

4-3L

Novak D.Brady Williams Rawsthorne

Presho A.Whelan

Falconer

Presho

Rigby

Sheen

Aug 13

Cheadle Town

NWCFL

3.00

3-3D

Novak

AUG 18

SANDBACH UNITED

NWCFL

7.45

L2-4

Novak Greene

Rigby

Falconer Presho

Aug 20

Litherland REMYCA

NWCFL

3.00

W1-2 Novak Greene

Rigby

Webster

Falconer

Presho

Aug 27

Charnock Richard

NWCFL

3.00

W1-3 Novak Greene

Rigby

Webster

Falconer

Presho

SEP 01

PRESTWICH HEYS

NWCFL

7.45

2-2D Hodge Greene

Rigby

Webster

Falconer

Presho

Sep 03

Atherton LR

NWCFL

3.00

4-2L

Hodge Greene1

Rigby

Falconer

Webster

Presho

Sep 06

City of Liverpool

NWCFL

7.45

5-1L

Hodge D.Brady

Presho

Falconer

Webster

Ashton

SEP 10

CHADDERTON

Andy Gillespie Pegler D

FAV 1QR 3.00

SEP 15

WIDNES

NWCFL

7.45

Sep 17

Daisy Hill

NWCFL

3.00

OCT 01

AFC DARWEN

TMC 1R 3.00

Oct 08

Alsager Town

NWCFL

Oct 11

AFC Blackpool

NWCFL

7.45

OCT 15

CARLISLE CITY

NWCFL

3.00

Oct 18

FC Oswestry Town

NWCFL

7.45

OCT 22

CHADDERTON

NWCFL

3.00

NOV 10

CHEADLE TOWN

NWCFL

7.45

Nov12

Silsden

NWCFL

3.00

NOV 17

ASHTON TOWN

NWCFL

7.45

NOV 19

ECCLESHALL

NWCFL

3.00

NOV 26

FC OSWESTRY TOWN

NWCFL

3.00

DEC 01

ALSAGER TOWN

NWCFL

7.45

Dec 03

Ashton Town

NWCFL

3.00

DEC 10

BACUP BOROUGH

NWCFL

3.00

Dec 17

Whitchurch Alport

NWCFL

3.00

DEC 26

LITHERLAND REMCYA

NWCFL

3.00

Dec 31

Prestwich Heys

NWCFL

3.00

JAN 07

HOLKER OLD BOYS

NWCFL

3.00

Jan 14

Eccleshall

NWCFL

3.00

JAN 21 AFC BLACKPOOL JAN 28 WHITCHURCH ALPORT Feb 04 Bacup Borough

NWCFL NWCFL NWCFL

3.00 3.00 3.00

FEB 11

SILSDEN

NWCFL

3.00

Feb 18

Sandbach United

NWCFL

3.00

Mar 04

Chadderton

NWCFL

3.00

Mar 11

Holker Old Boys

NWCFL

3.00

MAR 18

DAISY HILL

NWCFL

3.00

MAR 25

STOCKPORT TOWN

NWCFL

3.00

APR 01

ATHERTON LR

NWCFL

7.45

Apr 08

Widnes

NWCFL

3.00

APR 16

CITY OF LIVERPOOL

NWCFL

TBC

Apr 22

Stockport Town

NWCFL

3.00

APR 29

CHARNOCK RICHARD

NWCFL

3.00

Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

Alex Gillespie

Andy Gillespie

And Pre

Eddie Pegler

George Lomax

Hamish Fa

Will Threlkeld

Andy Webster

Matt Ho

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16-17 7 Ashton

Greene1

Name1

Player name and CAUTION

Name

Player name and DISMISSAL FOR 2 CAUTIONS

Name

Player name and DISMISSAL

Name10

Player name and number of replaced player

Pegler1 Andy Gillespie1

Pegler

D.Whelan Sheen1

Player name and number of goals scored

Name

C.Lomax

G.Lomax1

Greene10

Alex Gillespie6

Threlkeld3

D.Whelan

C.Lomax

Williams10

C.Banasko

Al Gillespie

D.Whelan2 Threlkeld11

G.Lomax1

C.Lomax

Threlkeld

Alex Gillespie

Tingay

C.Banasko2

G.Lomax

Williams

Threlkeld10

Alex Gillespie

D.Whelan

Tingay11

Davidson

Mavers9

S.Brady

Ball2

Hodge1 Al Gillespie

Andy Gillespie1 G.Lomax1 Williams

Sheen

Pegler1 Andy Gillespie1

Sheen

Ashton

C.Lomax

G.Lomax1 Williams2

Sheen

Ashton

C.Lomax1

G.Lomax

Williams1

Ball

Mavers

D.Brady

S.Brady

Ashton

Sheen

G.Lomax1

C.Lomax

Williams

D.Brady6

Andy Gillespie11

Pegler7

Ball

Dutton

Williams

Sheen

Andy Gillespie

Pegler

Rigby

Greene7

C.Lomax

G.Lomax61

Ball4

Donohue

Anthony Whelan

Chris Lomax

Danny Greene

Dom Whelan

alconer

Sam Sheene

Lee Novak

Phil WIlliams

Ste Rigby

odge

Ellis Mavers

Matty Davidson

Jake Ball

Cole Ashton

esho

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Town Elite Seven decades have been completed since St Helens town were re-formed immediately after the war and the following are our ‘shining lights’ of the 1970s and 1980s. 1970’s Alan Wellens As a local boy in his mid-teens Alan made his St Helens Town debut at Great Harwood in 1966 alongside Jackie Atherton who as skipper made sure that the youngster ‘came to no harm’. Little did anyone realise that Alan would eventually succeed his mentor and become the first Town skipper to lift a trophy for over twenty years when he collected the Lancs. Combination Championship cup from Wesley Bridge in 1972. Though he featured intermittently at first under boss Jimmy McKiernan, his Town playing career spanned the years 1966 to 1981 with just a brief season and a half at Darwen intervening in the 1970’s. Though records for the early part of this period are sketchy there is no doubt that Alan holds the record for St Helens Town appearances estimated at five hundred plus and he never gave less than one hundred per cent in any of them. Under his leadership Town also won the Watson Trophy and the Bass Charrington Cup in 1974, although he missed the final of the latter due to injury as his team-mates beat Darwen 4-3 thriller played at Burscough. That particular side was prolific indeed that year scoring 107 goals with Jackie Kendrick setting a club record of 46 goals which still stands to this day and though Alan Wellens’ job at right back was to defend, he did manage to get forward enough to bag a couple himself. In season 1975-76 Alan skippered Town in their new challenge in the Cheshire County League where he completed his playing career including the brief spell at Darwen. Sadly his playing days ended when back with Town he broke his leg in a league fixture against Hyde United at Hoghton in 1981 but having recovered, he took over the management of the team and took us to our most glorious day when winning the FA Vase at Wembley in 1987.

1980’s Phil Layhe As previously mentioned the highlight of Town’s existence has to be the Wembley Vase success of 1987 and the star among many stars that day was two-goal hero Phil Layhe. The 1980’s in general were a complete mixed bag in our fortunes with relegation from division one of the newly formed North West Counties Football league only narrowly avoided in 1982. However, just three years later we were enjoying our best ever FA Cup run and would have faced an away tie at York City in the First Round Proper had we not been unlucky in our replayed 4th qualifying round tie against Morecambe in 1985. Instrumental in our change in fortunes was ‘quiet man’ Phil Layhe who came along in 1984 to operate alongside the likes of Derek Farnsworth, Tommy O’Neil, Jay McComb and John Bendon and was soon leaving defences in his wake with his lightening pace and anticipation. As the ‘Vase’ squad took shape Phil’s obvious talents were given the perfect foil in Brian Rigby and the two set about terrorising defences as we began our quest with an astonishing 5-4 home victory after being 3-0 down to Cole Dynamoes. The fuse was lit and we were on our way with our league form also being revived after a poor start and Phil was regularly on the score sheet. Sadly the backlog of fixtures, which arose from our ‘Vase’ odyssey, meant we didn’t win the league title but the memory of Phil’s supercharged Wembley display will last forever. The final was a local derby against Warrington Town in a very warm Wembley stadium and Phil Layhe had the St Helens contingent on their feet when heading home Tommy O’Neil’s cross within four minutes. By the 7th minute it was 2-0 when Layhe turned provider for Brian Rigby to head past the forlorn John O’Brien. The games third headed goal came courtesy of Warrington’s Ian Reid on 58 minutes but just as the ‘Wires’ were threatening an equaliser, Phil Layhe forced his way through to make the game safe in the 67th minute. Neil Cooke’s 88th min goal for Warrington made it a jittery last few seconds but the day belonged to St Helens and Phil Layhe in particular.

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Match Report Purple Raining Goals by Kieran Ford City of Liverpool move back to the top with a 5 star performance. After their surprise 4-2 defeat to Atherton LR at Crilly Park, St Helens Town proved that anyone can beat anyone in this season’s division. They couldn’t dwell on this for long, however, as they had arguably their toughest match of the season, travelling to the Delta Taxi Stadium to take on City of Liverpool FC. “The Purple Partisans” were looking to avenge a shock defeat themselves, as they suffered their first loss of the season against Daisy Hill on Saturday. The visitors shied away from their traditional 2 striker systems of the past, as Alan Gillespie and Nick Matthews understood the potential attacking threat from City of Liverpool, with their strike force spearheaded by former Town man Daley Woods. This resulted in George and Chris Lomax’s dropping to the bench, as Andy Gillespie came back into the team as the visitors looked to line up with a 4-3-3 formation. The game started as the record 608 in attendance would have expected, with the hosts looking comfortable in possession as St Helens attempted to remain at the back. After the early cautious approach, St Helens looked more comfortable themselves, and looked dangerous on the left hand side through Ste Rigby, now in a more advanced position. Rigby had an early penalty shout turned down as he appeared to be tripped in the box, however the referee did not agree and carried on with proceedings. This was followed by a tame effort by long shot specialist Ed Pegler that was an easy catch for Longridge in the City of Liverpool goal. The hosts punished these close calls for St Helens, as they took the lead on 19 minutes. A well worked set piece routine saw Daniel Dalton chest the ball down before laying off another former St Helens player Francis Barry, who beat Matt Hodge at his far post. The away side arguably squandered the best chance of the game soon after, as a Rigby pullback to Phil Williams was met with finesse rather than power, and was an easy save at Longridge’s near post. The hosts doubled their lead through Barry, as he netted his second goal of the season. A City of Liverpool effort from outside the area was spilled by Hodge, and Barry picked up the rebound to give City of Liverpool a 2-0 lead. City of Liverpool completed a 3 minute double salvo as they pulled 3 clear. A terrific cross from the right from Thomas Peterson found Daley Woods who towered above both Falconer and Hodge and headed the hosts 3 in front to score in his 5th successive game. HT: City of Liverpool (Barry, 19, 28) (Woods, 31) 3 – 0 St Helens Town The home team sat back a little more in the second period, however still looked in complete control of the game. They added a 4th as another inch perfect cross from the right found Peterson whose diving header at the back post was too powerful for Hodge. City of Liverpool continued to frustrate St Helens with assured defending at the back and confidence going forward. The away team had an effort over the bar through Pegler before finding a way back into the game. An Andy Gillespie effort was well saved by the goalkeeper before substitute George Lomax slid in to poke the rebound home. Town continued to create good chances, through Lomax, Williams and Gillespie, but couldn’t find another route back into the game. City of Liverpool made sure of the result a minute from time, as another deep corner found Dalton once again, he headed the ball to Alan Weston and his effort looped over Hodge to complete a result that perhaps didn’t reflect the pattern of the game. FT: City of Liverpool (Barry, 19, 28) (Woods, 31) (Peterson, 58) (Weston, 89) 5 – 1 St Helens Town (George Lomax, 70)

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

A Brief History The original St. Helens Town club was formed in 1901 and played at Park Road, behind the Primrose Vaults public house. Although it was known as the Primrose Ground, the players changed further down Park Road at the Black Horse pub. Playing in the Lancashire League and Lancashire Combination, the team enjoyed some early success, but struggled after the Great War and appears to have folded midway through the 1928/29 season. The club was re-formed by George Fryer and a group of local businessmen in 1946. They took out a lease of the former cricket ground at Hoghton Road, Sutton, adjacent to the St. Helens Junction railway station and, although it entered in the FA Cup in the 1946/47 season, a team could not be raised in time to fulfil its tie with Prescot Cables. Friendly games were played, then local team Derbyshire Hill Rovers were taken over in April 1947, those players forming the nucleus of the team which entered the Liverpool County Combination at the start of the 1947/48 season. St. Helens Town soon began to prosper and early results included a sensational 10-4 win over Everton “A” on 6th December 1947. Former German prisoner-of-war Bert Trautmann joined the club in the Summer of 1948, the strapping goalkeeper helping the team to win its first trophy, the George Mahon Cup, which was secured with a 2-1 win over Runcorn at Prescot on 7th May 1949. Crowds averaged Tommy O’Neil over 2000 that season, peaking with a league record Wembley,1987 attendance of 3012 against Burscough in October 1948. The following season, 1949/50, Town entered the Lancashire Combination and, despite losing Trautmann to Manchester City in October 1949, they won the Second Division title in some style the following season, three players, Albert Leadbetter (36), Harry McCann (32) and Terry Garner (31) all netting over 30 goals apiece. An alltime club record attendance of “between 8000 and 9000” witnessed a friendly game against Manchester City, arranged as part of the Trautmann transfer deal, in April 1950 and another 4000 witnessed a second match with City the following season. Although relegated by a slender margin from the First Division in 1951/52, the club continued to look forward, even contemplating Football League status and, in order to further its ambitions, moved to the former St. Helens Recs. rugby league ground at City Road. Initial crowds were encouraging but, despite success, the club decided to move back to Hoghton Road in October 1953, where they remained until April 2000. Town produced a number of fine players who joined Football League clubs, including Bill Foulkes (Manchester United), John Quinn (Sheffield Wednesday) and John Connelly who joined Burnley, later transferring to Manchester United and who played in the England 1966 World Cup winning squad. More recently, Dave Bamber scored goals in all four divisions of the league with a host of different clubs, starting and ending his league career at Blackpool and in the last few years, Karl Ledsham, who had a productive career at conference level with Southport, Lincoln City, Barrow and Stockport County before moving to the USA. Following a second relegation in 1956, St. Helens Town continued to play in the Lancashire Combination, winning the Championship in 1971/72, by nine points ahead of Accrington Stanley. However, the formation of the Northern Premier League in 1968 led to a gradual drain of stronger clubs from the Combination and St. Helens joined the Cheshire League in 1975, becoming founder members of the North West Counties League seven years later. They held the proud record of being the only club to play in the NW Counties’ top flight every season until they were relegated in April

Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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of St Helens Town

St Helens Town 1948 2015, conceding an injury-time equaliser to Silsden in the last game of the season, a match they had to win to stay up. Town enjoyed a golden era in the late 1980s, just missing out on an appearance in the First Round proper of the FA Cup in 1985/86, losing to Morecambe in a Fourth Qualifying Round Replay, but they obtained ample compensation by winning the FA Vase at Wembley in 1987, beating near neighbours Warrington Town 3-2, with two goals from Phil Layhe and one from Brian Rigby. They were regular promotion candidates for many years, largely due to the scoring exploits of Steve “Pellet” Pennington, who grabbed 216 goals in 351 games, his season’s best hauls of 45 in 1993/94 and 46 in 1997/98 just failing to beat the club record of 47 scored by Phil Stainton in 1963/64. The 2015/16 season saw St. Helens Town in the First Division of the North West Counties League and despite some inconsistent mid-season form, they finished the season with an outside chance of making the promotion play-off places, only to fall short in the final match, losing at home to eventual champions Hanley Town in a game they needed to win thereby missing out for the first time on a place in this season’s FA Cup competition. Nevertheless, team captain Andy Gillespie landed the First Division Golden Boot Trophy with 29 league goals, 34 in all matches. At the start of the 2016/17 season, Town are looking to return to the borough and the new ground at Ruskin Drive will at last be ready in early October. In the meantime, early -season games will be played at Prescot Cables and with nearly all of last season’s squad staying on, boosted by new signings in key areas, they will be hoping to be among the front-runners for promotion in the club’s 70th year since their reformation, coincidentally, the 30 th year since their FA Vase success. The nomadic years since the loss of their Hoghton Road base in 2000 are now behind them, the return to their traditional blue and white colours herald a new beginning and the future once again looks bright.

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Club Honours: 1949 George Mahon Trophy Winners 1951 Lancs Comb Division 2 Champions 1972 Lancs Combination Champions 1973 Bass Charrington Cup Winners 1974 Watson Trophy Winners 1978 St Helens Hospital Cup Winners 1979 St Helens Comb Div 1 Runners Up 1979 St Helens Hospital Cup Runners Up 1980 St Helens Comb Div 1 Champions 1985 NWCFL Reserve Div 2 Runners Up 1986 NWCFL Reserve Div 1 Runners Up 1987 FA Vase Winners (Wembley) 1994 League Challenge Cup Finalists 1994 NWCFL Reserve Division Runners Up 1995 NWCFL Reserve Division Champions 1996 NWCFL Reserve Division Runners Up 1998 Floodlit Trophy Finalists 1999 REALCO Fair Play Award Winners 2009 Bert Trautmann Trophy Winners 2014-15 South Lancs League U17s Cup Finalists 2014-15 Cheshire FA U21 League Champions Record Appearances: Alan Wellens (448) Record Goal Scorer: Steve Pennington (216) Record Attendances: 3012 at Hoghton Road v Burscough (1948) 8000 at Hoghton Road v Man City (1950) 1723 at Knowsley Rd v FC Utd Manchester (2006) 9000 at Prescot Cables v Runcorn (1949)

Programme Awards 1993-94 NWCFL Programme of the Year 1995-96 NWCFL Programme of the Year 1997-98 NWCFL Programme of the Year 1998-99 NWCFL Programme of the Year 1999-00 NWCFL Programme of the Year 2000-01 NWCFL Programme of the Year 2009-10 NWCFL Premier Division 2010-11 NWCFL Premier Division 2011-12 NWCFL Premier Division 2012-13 NWCFL Premier Division 2013-14 NWCFL Premier Division 2014-15 NWCFL Premier Division 2015-16 NWCFL First Division Wirral Programme Club National Survey 1996-97 NWCFL Programme of the Year 1997-98 NWCFL Programme of the Year 1998-99 NWCFL Programme of the Year

Programme Monthly 2007-08 NWCFL Programme of the Year Soccer Club Swap Shop National Awards 2010-11 Placed 28th 2011-12 Placed 8th 2012-13 Placed 7th 2013-14 Placed 8th 2014-15 Placed 5th 2015-16 Placed 8th NWCFL 2015-16 Awards Player of the Month Oct Andy Gillespie ‘Keeper of the Month Nov Matthew Hodge January 2016 Team of the Month ‘Keeper of the Month Jan Matthew Hodge

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Town News Town team up with Melissa St Helens Town U18s are delighted to announce ‘Melissa’s Smile Fund’ as their 2016-17 shirt sponsors. Melissa’s Smile Fund logo will take pride of place on the front of the U18s home kit throughout 2016 -17 and the club’s match programme will feature the details of Melissa’s fundraising activities during the season.

Club Chairman said, ‘We are delighted to be able to support Melissa and her bid to raise funds towards the costs of creating a sensory room. We met a year or so ago when Melissa and her family attended one of league matches at Brocstedes Park, Ashton. He added, ‘Hopefully the shirt sponsorship, programme coverage and our support through social media will further raise the profile of Angelman Syndrome and hopefully help with fundraising’ Melissa Grace is 12 years old and has a rare genetic condition called Angelman syndrome (AS). AS is a complex genetic disorder which affects every aspect of her life. She has delayed development, and intellectual disabilities. She is 12 years old but still needs help with eating and toileting and most of the everyday tasks most people take for granted. Melissa also needs 24 hour care and will do so for the rest of her life. Melissa has problems with movement and balance and also has seizures (epilepsy) and has a very poor sleep pattern and can sometimes have as little as three hours sleep each night. The most frustrating part for her is the inability to speak, and she finds her lack of communication very difficult to cope with sometimes. Melissa’s website (http:// melissassmile.weebly.com) has been set up by her brother Jacob and mum Kathryn to help to support Melissa’s SHARE THE SMILE TEAM who are fundraising to help provide her with the things she will need to help make life a little easier as she grows. And to help raise awareness of Angelman syndrome. The first thing people notice about Melissa is her smile, one of the main characteristics of Angelman syndrome is a happy demeanour, Melissa smiles all the time, even when she is hurt or upset. You can keep up to date with Melissa’s adventures on her Blog page (via the website) and if you would like to send her a message then please visit the Contact page.

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Match Report Late Goal Sinks Town Again By Kieran Ford St Helens' stable start continues as Prestwich miss chance to enter playoffs. After 2 wins on the bounce against opposition towards the summit of the Hallmark Security League Division 1 table, St Helens Town headed into Thursday’s match against league new boys Prestwich Heys. However, last season’s Manchester Football League Premier Division champions have made an impressive start to the season, and a victory would have saw them move up to the dizzy heights of 5th place. Last season’s top scorer Andy Gillespie’s continued absence meant that last weekend’s 2 goal hero Phil Williams retain his place in the starting eleven, would he score another goal from distance? The ever impressive Lomax brother’s retained their place up front with Hamish Falconer taking the armband in Gillespie’s absence. Town continued to start in the same vein as these two previous victories, as they quickly looked to stamp their authority on the contest and pressed their opponents deep into their own half. This resulted in a half chance for George Lomax comfortably saved by the Heys keeper Matthew Green. Soon after, a last ditch tackle from Prestwich defender Darius Photiou prevented Ste Rigby from opening the scoring after the ball broke to him on the edge of the box.

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v Prestwich Heys However, this early pressure counted for nothing as the away side took the lead. A Prestwich Heys effort was well saved by Matt Hodge in the St Helens goal, but the ball broke to Gregory Wills, whose rebound effort was turned in by Paul Tierney. Town looked for an instant reply, and Ste Rigby was again the architect, but his effort was saved by Green in the Prestwich goal. The first half saw an impressive performance from Danny Greene, as he looks to make that right midfielder role his own. Although the Town number 2 now has Andy Webster covering him defensively, previous games where he has been deployed as right wing back have helped him on a defensive front, as he performed some well timed tackles to win the ball back high up the field. Town did eventually get their equaliser, and dead ball specialist Sam Sheen was the creator. His deep free kick was flicked on by George Lomax to find Phil Williams unmarked at the back post to nod home, bagging his 3rd goal in 2 games to send Town in at the break level. HT: St Helens Town (Williams, 32) 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 Prestwich Heys (Tierney, 13)

Town 2-2 Prestwich Heys Photographs courtesy of Respice Photography

Town came out from the break looking bright, and managed to take the lead 7 minutes after the restart. A cross from the marauding Ste Rigby almost evaded goalkeeper Green, but his parry could only find George Lomax. His volleyed pass teed up his brother Chris Lomax to nod home, and put Town in front for the first time.

After that goal went in, the game was lacking any meaningful chances, and looked to be petering out into a 3rd St Helens Town victory in succession. However, as the game entered its last 10 minutes, Prestwich had other ideas.

The away side started to press as they looked to snatch a point, and they duly got their reward on 82 minutes. A long ball into the area was taken down well by a Prestwich attacker to evade Hodge; this then left the Town keeper out of his net, as the cross was played to Shaun Johnson who levelled the game for the away side. One more incident of drama unfolded as Prestwich were turned down claims for a penalty as Andy Webster brought down Tierney; however the assistant already had his flag up for offside which resulted in a free kick in the opposite direction. This left Heys fans, players and officials up in arms about the decision, which ended the game on a sour note for them.

FT: St Helens Town (Williams, 32) (Chris Lomax, 52) 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2 Prestwich Heys (Tierney, 13) (Johnson, 82)

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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Photo Gallery

St Helens Town 2-2 Prestwich Heys Match photographs courtesy of Respice Photography

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

Match Report Town lose unbeaten run in game of two halves at LE Atherton LR 4, St. Helens Town 2 by Glyn Jones Just when normality seemed to have settled in for St. Helens Town, with a run of three games unbeaten, including away wins against the top two in the table, they lost their unbeaten run in seven spectacular minutes at Atherton Laburnum Rovers on Saturday, against a side who had collapsed 8-0 on Bank Holiday Monday against new club City of Liverpool. And all that after Town had coasted into an easy lead and spurned several chances to go several goals clear. For the first time this season, Saturday produced heavy rain and the sloping Crilly Park pitch held a definite advantage for Town in the first half. Atherton, still smarting from their 8-0 drubbing at Bootleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ground on Monday, looked hesitant in defence and defending at the bottom of the slope looked decidedly difficult, especially when it came down to turning. St. Helens, on the other hand, looked full of goals, although Andy Gillespie could only manage a place on the bench on his return from America. Danny Greene scored a spectacular goal after 23 minutes, seizing on a defensive mistake and there were two other chances to score, Sam Sheen cutting through before hitting a post with keeper Robert Sadler hopelessly stranded. However, against the run of play, a cross under pressure skidded off Matty Hodgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s glove into his own net in the 35th minute and this gave LR hope. Order was restored three minutes from the break when George Lomax finished coolly to send Town in 2-1 ahead and, soon after the teams emerged, the visitors tore loose again, the Lomax brothers seering through the home defence, drawing the last defender and it seemed inevitable one or other would score, but Sadler pulled off an excellent save. For all the chances Town had, not for the first time this season, they should have been over the hills and far away, but the game was turned on its head in seven unexpected minutes. Centre forward Stuart McDonald suddenly started to get the run of the ball and it was the Town back three (subsequently reorganised to a back four) who looked in trouble on the difficult surface. He supplied the ball for Adam Owens to chip Hodge for the

Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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v Atherton LR equaliser on the hour, then it was McDonald again who found Andy Millar on the edge of the box and the conditions played no small part in the tackle which led to LR’s penalty which Millar despatched to give his side the lead in the 63rd minute. Then, when McDonald himself slotted the ball into Hodge’s bottom corner four minutes later, his side where home and dry at 4-2. Even the introduction of Gillespie proved futile as Atherton played as if their lives depended on it and Town were left to wonder how (and not for the first time since relegation) they failed to convert their chances and bury their opponents before losing their way. Town’s next game is against City of Liverpool at Bootle on Tuesday night, kick off 7.45. They then take a break from league action with a game against Chadderton at Prescot on Saturday, 3pm start, in the FA Vase First Round Qualifying, the winners to go through to play Maltby Main or Widnes away in the Second Round Qualifying on 24th September. They return to the Hallmark Security First Division on Thursday next, 15th September, also at Prescot, with a home match against Widnes.

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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Photo Gallery

Atherton LR 4-2 Town Hallmark Security League Division 1 Saturday 3rd September 2016

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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Ruskin Update

Ruskin Drive Sports Ground A number of photographs taken last weekend which has seen more work completed as the project nears its end.

Recent work has included permanent pitch markings and the artificial pitch ‘crumb’ has been added. The initial layer of tarmac hardstanding has been completed in most areas with a final ‘finish’ due this week. We will endeavour to keep you updated at sthelenstownafc.com

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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League News DIVISION ONE - Player of the Month MICHAEL BOYLE OF LITHERLAND REMYCA Michael signed for the club in the summer, having previously played at Maghull under manager Phil Stafford. He is a quick and direct wide player who can play in the number 10 role, and with four goals in the first six games and three Man of the Match nominations, Michael has adapted quickly to life in the NWCFL.

His latest goal, a stunning 20 yard strike in off the underside of the bar against Stockport Town, shows he is capable of scoring great goals as well as the tap ins. He also scored the winner at Eccleshall when Remy were down to 10 men and the score at 1-1, and Michael was put clean through before rounding the keeper to slot home. His all round play so far has been a joy to watch bringing other players into the game at all times, he is a great lad to have in the changing room and everyone at the club is hoping he will get more goals during the season. DIVISION ONE - Goalkeeper of the Month BEN JUPP OF CHEADLE TOWN 19 year-old Ben joined Cheadle Town in the summer following a spell with FC United of Manchester last season. Ben is a local lad who lives only a stoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s throw away from Park Road Stadium, so it's especially nice to see a local lad playing for his local Football Club.

Ben has claimed the Number One jersey ahead of a number of more experienced keepers at the Club this season, and has kept his place in the side on merit and through his consistent performances during the month of August. Ben was certainly given a baptism of fire for his debut game in the FA Cup at Penistone Church, and produced an excellent performance to help Cheadle Town progress to the next Round of the Competition.

The next Round of the FA Cup saw Ben face Evo-Stik League side Northwich Victoria and he wasn't fazed by the big crowd and high expectations on his shoulders as Cheadle Town looked to progress further in the competition. It would have been easier to opt for a more experienced keeper for these high profile fixtures for the Football Club, but to Ben's credit he produced two excellent performances to help the team progress to the Qualifying Rounds of the Competition. In the League, one game that stands out during August was his Man of the Match performance against Chadderton. This was a game that Cheadle Town eventually claimed all points late in the game, but it was Ben's performance in that game that kept Cheadle Town in with a chance to steal the game from a battling Chadderton side. His display ultimately led the Chadderton committee to express their praise of this young keeper which denied them the points. Ben has certainly gained some great match experience during August, including the two high profile fixtures in the FA Cup, and if he continues in this current form, he will only go on and improve and can look forward to a bright future in the game.

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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League News Runcorn Linnets - the Millbank Linnets Stadium has been chosen by Liverpool Football Club to stage a forthcoming fixture involving a Reds Academy team. LFC Under 16s will entertain Derby County on Monday, September 19th (ko 7pm). Spectators are welcome and admission is free. Conor Barry, Academy secretary at Liverpool FC, said: "The competition is called the Bladies Cup which is organised by Sheffield United. The aim of the competition is to play at nonleague grounds under the floodlights to give the players a different experience from playing at the Academy." Carlisle City - the club will soon be welcoming pupils from St Margaret Mary's Primary School for teaching sessions. The school is less than a mile from the club's Gillford Park ground, in the newly started term, it is intended that some of the children from the school will come to Gillford Park as part of the curriculum. City Chairman Brian Hall said: "In our social room, they will have some formal teaching, as well as a tour around the ground and they will do some PE on our grass outside. It is all part of our effort to integrate with the local community, and there is an extra link with the school as one of their teachers Mark Graham also plays for us in midfield". FC Oswestry Town - the club's home tie in the first round of the Shropshire FA T J Vickers Premier Cup against Rock Rovers will be played next Tuesday 13th September at the Venue, kick off 8.15 pm. Prestwich Heys - Good times at Adie Moran Park where Chairman, Neil Gilmore has confirmed that he has had information confirming that a couple of vandals that had targetted the club on a regular basis recently have been detained. This news comes at a good time for the club as they are looking to get their floodlights commissioned imminently and in action for the first time for their Lancashire Trophy game against Chorley on 29th September. St Helens Town U18s Congratulations to the Town youngsters who made club history on Thursday evening with their first ever entry into the FA Youth Cup. Colin Hamletâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s side were paired with fellow North West Youth Alliance outfit, AFC Blackpool U18s at The Mechanics Stadium, Blackpool and goals from Owen Mitchell, Liam Stewart and Danny Brady gave Town a 0-3 lead before the home side hit back. Tom Bradley restored the three goal advantage before half time whistle blew at 1-4. The second half saw the home side rally and two goals reduced the deficit (3-4) and kept supporters on the edge of their seat but Town held out and progressed and will host Chadderton U18s in the next round.

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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League Tables First Division Table as at Wednesday 07/09/2016 First Division

Charnock Richard

10 6

W D 2

22 12 10 20

A GD Pts

City of Liverpool FC

27 10 17 19

3 4

Litherland REMYCA Alsager Town

8 8

6 5

1 3

1 0

22 21

Whitchurch Alport

22 10 12 18

6 7

Sandbach United Prestwich Heys

8 8

5 4

0 2

3 2

20 14 21 15

Chadderton

10 4

24 25 -1 14

Silsden

25 16

Holker Old Boys

15 12

Widnes

14 12

9 8

13 19 13 18

6 6

15 14

St Helens Town Player Sponsors 2016-17

Anthony Whelan Focus Windows & Doors Limited Sam Sheen Airborne Bathroom Services Andy Gillespie Arcoframe Danny Greene Danny’s Window Cleaning George Lomax Kiera’s Occasions Chris Lomax Keative Kirsty

Carlisle City

18 17

Atherton LR

10 3

16 28 -12 11

Andrew Presho Total Building Care

14 15

FC Oswestry Town Stockport Town

9 7

2 3

4 0

3 4

20 22 -2 10 18 21 -3 9

Eddie Pegler Gibney’s Jewellers

Daisy Hill

15 24 -9

17 18

Bacup Borough St Helens Town

8 8

2 2

4 4

11 14 -3 18 24 -6

8 8

Cheadle Town

13 17 -4

AFC Blackpool

21 22

Ashton Town Eccleshall

9 9

1 0

0 2

8 7

7 28 -21 3 12 34 -22 2

17 -9

Lee Novak Howdens, Leigh Matthew Hodge Kreative Kirsty Ste Rigby Kealshore Ltd Hamish Falconer Live Wire Electrical Alex Gillespie Walton Carpets Dom Whelan Walton Carpets Will Threlkeld Beer Engin, Whiston Cole Ashton MLR Heating Supplies Phil Williams Johnsons Toyota Liverpool

We are still looking for a number of additional Player sponsors. Contact John McKiernan on 07713 339 682 for further details

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

League Tables Premier Division Table as at Wednesday 07/09/2016 Premier Division

W D

A GD Pts

Atherton Collieries

14 16

West D & Chorlton

12 16

1874 Northwich

10 16

Bootle

22 11 11 15

Runcorn Town

17 13

Irlam

15 19 -4 15

Barnoldswick Town

19 14

Runcorn Linnets

18 13

Abbey Hey

12 15 -3 12

Hanley Town

15 14

Squires Gate

17 14

New Mills

18 18

Congleton Town

16 19 -3 10

AFC Liverpool

14 14

Ashton Athletic

10 13 -3

Padiham

12 -3

AFC Darwen

22 -13 7

Barnton

26 -19 7

Maine Road

-1

Nelson

12 -3

Winsford United

-4

Cammell Laird 1907

16 -9

Saturday 10th September 2016 The Buildbase FA Vase 1st Qualifying Round AFC Darwen v Pickering Town Alsager Town v Squires Gate Armthorpe Welfare v Congleton Town Ashton Athletic v Athersley Recreation Ashton Town v Parkgate Barnton v Harworth Colliery Bootle v Maine Road Brocton v Eccleshall Carlisle City v Team Northumbria Daisy Hill v Garforth Town Darlington RA v Barnoldswick Town FC Oswestry Town v Walsall Wood Irlam v Selby Town Knaresborough Town v Silsden Maltby Main v Widnes Nelson v Heaton Stannington Runcorn Town v Winsford United St Helens Town v Chadderton Played at Prescot Cables Staveley Miners Welfare v Cheadle Town Whitchurch Alport v Wellington

Premier Division 1874 Northwich v West Dids & Chorlton Abbey Hey v Runcorn Linnets Atherton Collieries v Cammell Laird 1907 New Mills v AFC Liverpool Padiham v Hanley Town First Division AFC Blackpool v Prestwich Heys Sandbach United v Bacup Borough Stockport Town v Holker Old Boys Sunday 11th September 2016 The Buildbase FA Vase 1st Quali Round City of Liverpool FC v Litherland REMYCA Whickham v Charnock Richard Monday 12th September 2016 Premier Division Maine Road v Runcorn Town Winsford United v Irlam First Division Ashton Town v Stockport Town Atherton LR v Daisy Hill Shropshire Cup 1st Round FC Oswestry Town v Rock Rovers

Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016

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Celebrating 70 years, 1946-2016