Post on 23-Jul-2016
description
v West Didsbury & Chorlton
17.10.2015
NWCFL Premier Division
Kick Off: 15:00
Issue 10
£1.50
Club Information
Chairman
Stuart Hopwood
Secretary
John Maguire
Treasurer
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
Mark Ashmore
Programme Editors
Daniel Hayden
Jay Hayden
@squiresgatefc
@squiresgatefc
MATCH PREVIEW Words by Daniel Hayden
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.
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!
Personally, I would like to thank West fan Peter Jones for his great contribution
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
as his fantastic career - where he has photographed some footballing legends
and has even got an exclusive photo from the World Cup final in 1996!
Our next game will be on Monday as we travel to Atherton Collieries who beat
us 4-3 in August. We will return to The Royal British Legion Stadium on the
31st as we face Padiham.
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 dur-
ing 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
Tuesday 20th October 2015
Abbey Hey v Maine Road
AFC Blackpool v AFC Liverpool
Alsager Town v 1874 Northwich
Ashton Athletic v Colne
Runcorn Linnets v Congleton Town
West Didsbury & Chorlton v Nelson
AFC Darwen v Barnoldswick Town
Padiham v Silsden
Saturday 24th October 2015
The Men United Cup Round 2
!874 Northwich V Winsford United
Abbey Hey v Silsden
AFC Darwen v AFC Blackpool
Saturday 17th October 2015
1874 Northwich v Barnoldswick Town
AFC Liverpool v Runcorn Linnets
Ashton Athletic v Bootle
Atherton Collieries v Alsager Town
Cammell Laird 1907 v Abbey Hey
Colne v Padiham
Congleton Town v Winsford United
Maine Road v AFC Darwen
Runcorn Town v AFC Blackpool
Squires Gate v West Didsbury & Chorlton
Monday 19th October 2015
Atherton Collieries v Squires Gate
Runcorn Town v Cammell Laird 1907
Winsford United v Bootle
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
LEAGUE LEAGUE CUP FA CUP FA VASE 2015/16 CARDS
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
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
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
A SEASON TO FORGET FOR GATE
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!
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 mid-
field 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 keep-
er 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.
P W D L F A PTS POS
15 5 1 9 27 32 16 15th
THIS SEASON CURRENT FORM
P W D L F A PTS POS
6 4 0 2 31 12 12 4th
Founded:1908
Ground: Capacity: 1,000
Chairman: Glyn Meacher
Manager: Stevie Settle
COMPETITION DATE SCORE
NWCFL 08 Aug West Didsbury 1-2 Atherton Collieries
NWCFL 11 Aug Alsager Town 2-1 West Didsbury
FA Cup EP 14 Aug 1874 Northwich 3-0 West Didsbury
NWCFL 18 Aug West Didsbury 0-3 AFC Liverpool
NWCFL 22 Aug West Didsbury 0-1 Barnoldswick Town
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
NWCFL 12 Sep Winsford United 1-0 West Didsbury
NWCFL 15 Sep Ashton Athletic 3-0 West Didsbury
NWCFL 19 Sep West Didsbury 5-1 Padiham
NWCFL 26 Sep West Didsbury 0-3 Runcorn Linnets
FA Vase Q2 03 Oct West Didsbury 15-1 Dinnington Town
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
Highest Average Attendance: 118
Highest Attendance:
460 (vs FC United of Manchester July 2013)
FA Cup Progression:
Extra Preliminary Round
2013/14 saw a strong recovery from a series of early season setbacks and defeats in August to consoli-
date 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 increas-
ing 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
Home D L L L W
Away W D L W L
Collated L L W L W
At West Didsbury & Chorlton At Squires Gate(2)
Overall (16)
Records
Previous Meetings
Results Total %
Squires Gate 2 100
West Didsbury 0 0
Draw 0 0
Goals Total Av.PG
Squires Gate 3 0.3
West Didsbury 0 0
Results Total %
West Didsbury 1 50
Squires Gate 1 50
Draw 0 0
Goals Total Av.PG
West Didsbury 3 0.3
Squires Gate 3 0.3
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
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
Season Date
2013/14 Sat 08 Feb Squires Gate 1-0 West Didsbury & Chorlton
Sat 22 Feb West Didsbury & Chorlton 2-1 Squires Gate
2014/15 Sat 17 Jan Squires Gate 2-0 West Didsbury & Chorlton
Tue 31 Mar West Didsbury & Chorlton 1-2 Squires Gate
ALL COMPETITIONS
Home W L W W L
Away D W L L W
Collated L W W W L
SQUIRES GATE 1-0 WEST DIDSBURY & CHORLTON
Sat 8th 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 intend-
ed 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 .
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
SQUIRES GATE 2-0 WEST DIDSBURY & CHORLTON
Sat 17th January, 2015
Gate started the game the better side and could have gone ahead early on, good link up play be-
tween 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
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 pos-
sessed 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 frus-
trated 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 pres-
sure 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
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
SEPTEMBER
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 Irlam 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
OCTOBER
Sat 3rd 15.00 Winsford United H 0-2 36 FA Vase Q2
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
NOVEMBER
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
DECEMBER
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
JANUARY
Sat 2nd 15:00 Barnoldswick Town H NWCFL
Sat 9th 15:00 Maine Road A NWCFL
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
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
MARCH
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
APRIL
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
1908 The year West Didsbury were founded .
15-1 West Didsbury beat Dinnington Town 15-1 in their
previous FA Vase win.
10 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 The capacity of the Recreation Ground.
8 The number of trophies they have won in their
history
Saeed Potts
Poole Evangelinos Russell
Buckley-Smith
Eckersley Gavin Kay
Jones Woods
How they lined up vs Cammell Laird 1907 (lost 3-2)
W D L
4 1 1
W D L
2 2 2
W D L
1 0 8
W D L
0 2 6
W D L
3 0 4
W D L
1 3 3
0 Wins 1
0 Home Wins 1
1 Away Wins 0
1 Defeats 0
1 Home Defeats 2
0 Away Defeats 0
8 Score Draws 10
9 No Score Draws 16
0 Conceding 1+ goals 0
0 Scoring 1+ goals 0
9 Clean Sheets 16
13 Back To Back Wins 1
2014/15 RECORD
Played 40
Won 13
Drawn 4
Lost 23
Scored 57
Conceded 84
Goal Difference -27
Position 16th
Played 40
Won 17
Drawn 16
Lost 7
Scored 62
Conceded 42
Goal Difference +20
Position 6th
2014/15 RECORD
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 complimen-tary 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
SEPTEMBER
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
OCTOBER
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
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
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.
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 sea-
son, 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.
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
Ben Denise Peter Your Prediction
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
BY ROAD
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.
The ground is on the left.
PARKING
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.
PUBS
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:
Port Street Beer House
The Marble Arch
Sinclair's Oyster Bar
But the closest pub to the
ground is;
Hardy’s Well
LAST TIME
The last time Gate
played at Maine Road
was back in Novem-
ber 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
24.10.2015, KO 15:00
The Men United Cup Round 2
Altrincham
FC Halifax Town
Chelmsford City
Forest Green Rovers
AFC Telford United
Boston United
Havant & Waterlooville
Grays Athletic
Truro City
North Ferriby United
Hemel Hempstead Town
1
4
9
5
3
2
6
8
10
7
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.
Arbroath
Peterhead
Ayr
Alloa Athletic
Basingstoke
Berwick Rangers
Weston-Super-Mare
13
11
15
17
14
12 16
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
Saul LOMAX-NEWTON
Callum JONES
Scott JONES
Richmond BOTCHEY
Anthony POTTS
Steve BROCKLEY
Mark ROGERS
Michael SIMCOCK
Sam DEE
Jordan POOLE
Matt ECKERSLEY
Lewis SCHOFIELD
Steve SETTLE
Scott MASON
Lee GAVIN
Ric GLEAVE
Ashley WOODS
Jonathan POIZER
Matty KAY
Daniel RUSSELL
Tommy WALSH
Jamie WALDON
Ben STEER
Nic EVANGELINOS
Ben FLETCHER
Andrew RICHARDS
Billy MCKENNA
Joshua WESTWOOD
Daniel PENSWICK
Brett FERGUSON
Alex MCKENDRICK
Mark BUCHAN
Ashley ROWLEY
Joshua KAY
Alex COLQUHOUN
Michael HALL
Nathan TROUT
Aaron CLARKE
Stephen HIGGINS
Conah BISHOP
Ryan RILEY
Joe NOBLET
Antony STAYTE
Referee
Ian Gittins
Assistant Referees
David Gillon
Liam Marshall