31/ 8/2007
REBEL club FC United make their long-awaited entrance into the FA Cup on Sunday eager to make as big an impact in the world's oldest knockout competition as they have done in non-league combat since their formation two years ago.
A derby with Trafford at Altrincham's Moss Lane ground at such an early stage of the competition would not normally attract any more than a cursory glance.But for a club founded as a response to the distaste of Malcolm Glazer's takeover at nine-times winners Manchester United, it is a seminal event.
"We've been looking forward to this for a long time," said general manager Andy Walsh.
"Clearly, Manchester United has a rich history in the competition. Our own aims for this season are less lofty but we plan to do as well as we can."
Victory would set up a nostalgic first qualifying round trip to Fleetwood, the club against whom Newton Heath - the forerunner of Manchester United - played their own first FA Cup tie well over a century ago.
Friday, August 31, 2007
FC’s first FA Cup adventure
FC UNITED go into their first ever FA Cup game this Sunday, September 2, on the back of two wins in three days.
The reds finally put some league points on the board with a 6-0 drubbing of Bridlington Town on Saturday. And after a hard fought 2-1 victory at Rossendale on Bank Holiday Monday they climbed to ninth in the UniBond First Division North table.
FC will be without striker Rory Patterson when they play Trafford at Altrincham, as he serves a suspension. But manager Karl Marginson is still confident his side can progress to play Fleetwood Town in the second preliminary round.
The players will already get within touching distance of the great cup when it is brought to first team training at Salford Sports Village – the home of the Manchester FA – tonight, Thursday, August 30.
Marginson said: "We know all about Trafford having beaten them twice last season and we also played them in a pre-season friendly. So there’s no excuses for not being prepared.
"We should beat them if we play to our ability and despite missing Rory we should have enough in our locker.
"The FA Cup is the biggest cup competition in the world so the players will be up for it.
"It’s a big occasion for the club as this is the first time we’ve appeared in the competition and some fans who gave up their Manchester United season tickets may have feared they’d never enjoy the FA Cup again.
"United have always had a great cup tradition and we are all keen to carry on that tradition, starting on Sunday."
Patterson will serve a three-game ban for being sent off in the friendly against Trafford. But he made sure he signed off in style on Saturday, netting a hat-trick to destroy Bridlington at Gigg Lane in front of 2,263 fans.
His first came after 15 minutes when he controlled and turned to volley into the bottom corner. He notched his second midway through the first half and completed his hat-trick with a well taken drive from just inside the box on the stroke of half-time.
New boy Anthony Hargreaves made it five with a tap-in before Matty Taylor scored his first goal for the club with a penalty late on.
On Bank Holiday Monday, FC travelled to Rossendale and came back with maximum points thanks to a 20-yard Stuart Rudd free kick and a Nicky Platt penalty with five minutes to go.
On the gate admission to the FA Cup game at Altrincham’s Moss Lane ground costs £7 for adults and £4 for concessions.
Published: 30th August 2007
First published by the Prestwich Advertiser
The reds finally put some league points on the board with a 6-0 drubbing of Bridlington Town on Saturday. And after a hard fought 2-1 victory at Rossendale on Bank Holiday Monday they climbed to ninth in the UniBond First Division North table.
FC will be without striker Rory Patterson when they play Trafford at Altrincham, as he serves a suspension. But manager Karl Marginson is still confident his side can progress to play Fleetwood Town in the second preliminary round.
The players will already get within touching distance of the great cup when it is brought to first team training at Salford Sports Village – the home of the Manchester FA – tonight, Thursday, August 30.
Marginson said: "We know all about Trafford having beaten them twice last season and we also played them in a pre-season friendly. So there’s no excuses for not being prepared.
"We should beat them if we play to our ability and despite missing Rory we should have enough in our locker.
"The FA Cup is the biggest cup competition in the world so the players will be up for it.
"It’s a big occasion for the club as this is the first time we’ve appeared in the competition and some fans who gave up their Manchester United season tickets may have feared they’d never enjoy the FA Cup again.
"United have always had a great cup tradition and we are all keen to carry on that tradition, starting on Sunday."
Patterson will serve a three-game ban for being sent off in the friendly against Trafford. But he made sure he signed off in style on Saturday, netting a hat-trick to destroy Bridlington at Gigg Lane in front of 2,263 fans.
His first came after 15 minutes when he controlled and turned to volley into the bottom corner. He notched his second midway through the first half and completed his hat-trick with a well taken drive from just inside the box on the stroke of half-time.
New boy Anthony Hargreaves made it five with a tap-in before Matty Taylor scored his first goal for the club with a penalty late on.
On Bank Holiday Monday, FC travelled to Rossendale and came back with maximum points thanks to a 20-yard Stuart Rudd free kick and a Nicky Platt penalty with five minutes to go.
On the gate admission to the FA Cup game at Altrincham’s Moss Lane ground costs £7 for adults and £4 for concessions.
Published: 30th August 2007
First published by the Prestwich Advertiser
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Seasiders hit for six by FC United
By Staff Copy
UniBond League Division One North
Published Date: 30 August 2007
FC United of Man’ 6
Bridlington Town 0
After the previous Wednesday's defeat against Harrogate, Bridlington Town fans travelled to Bury's Gigg Lane ground wary that a similar performance could bring dire consequences against a team eager to get off the mark after two straight defeats in their opening games at UniBond level.
They were proved horribly correct, as Town produced an abject surrender in front of a 2253-strong crowd, in which the home side could have run up a cricket score but for some wasteful finishing and showboating from their front men in the second half.
The Seasiders' 3-5-2 formation played into the hands of a pacy home attack, whose simple tactic of the long diagonal ball over the top undid a shapeless Town defence time and again. Yet again, Town fell to an early goal, with lethal marksman Rory Patterson allowed far too much time to turn inside the 18-yard box to bury a crisp shot past 'keeper Chris Hill.
FC were even at this stage, totally in control, and with strike partners Stu Rudd and Jerome Wright allowing Patterson the freedom of the 18-yard box in which to ply his trade, the frontman grabbed his second on 23 minutes. Town simply could not gain a foothold in the game, with Tom Greaves isolated up front with little support. Skipper Pete Naylor was again a commanding figure in the Town midfield, but could count on few allies to stick their heads above the parapet in his battle against a rampant home side. Surprisingly the scoreline remained at 2-0 going into the second half, but with a couple of mystifying subsitutions further disrupting any game pattern Town had managed to establish, they fell further behind on 64 minutes, with Patterson again finding acres of space courtesy of Wright's measured through pass to fire home from close range.
Neil Towler had looked one of very few positives out on the left flank for Town, and had given full-back Matt Taylor plenty to think about, but with his withdrawal shortly before the strike, Town appeared to have effectively waved the white flag.
United continued to pour forward against an overworked Seasiders' defence, and Patterson struck again on 75 minutes, although the ball appeared to have taken a final touch on its way into the net off Town centre-back Lee Harper.
There was still plenty of room in the locker for United to heap more misery on the wretched visitors, and Rudd again had a large say in the fifth goal on 83 minutes, as his clever lay off found substitute Anthony Hargreaves, who notched his first goal for FC with a well placed low shot from the angle of the six-yard box.
Rudd was then guilty of playing to the gallery, as Patterson's pass found him free on goal almost on the penalty spot, but with the home fans simply waiting for the net to bulge, he chose to chip extravagantly over Hill and sent the ball over the bar.
It mattered little, as on 88 minutes, United wrapped up an afternoon that any Town fan present will want to erase swiftly from their memory with the sixth from a penalty, as Hargreaves' run on goal was unceremoniously halted by Harper, and Taylor helped himself to a rare goal by blasting the spot kick high and wide past Hill.
Town's day was summed up on the stroke of full time, when the only real chance created throughout the entire match fell to an unmarked Harper at the far post, who could only direct his header from Wayne Harratt's fine lay-off against the woodwork.
Town: Hill, Bonarius, Harper, Stoneman, Giblin, Rouse (Harratt 56) Towler (Bradshaw 63) Naylor, Berry, Greaves, Lackie (Dexter 75).
Last Updated: 27 August 2007 10:11 AM
UniBond League Division One North
Published Date: 30 August 2007
FC United of Man’ 6
Bridlington Town 0
After the previous Wednesday's defeat against Harrogate, Bridlington Town fans travelled to Bury's Gigg Lane ground wary that a similar performance could bring dire consequences against a team eager to get off the mark after two straight defeats in their opening games at UniBond level.
They were proved horribly correct, as Town produced an abject surrender in front of a 2253-strong crowd, in which the home side could have run up a cricket score but for some wasteful finishing and showboating from their front men in the second half.
The Seasiders' 3-5-2 formation played into the hands of a pacy home attack, whose simple tactic of the long diagonal ball over the top undid a shapeless Town defence time and again. Yet again, Town fell to an early goal, with lethal marksman Rory Patterson allowed far too much time to turn inside the 18-yard box to bury a crisp shot past 'keeper Chris Hill.
FC were even at this stage, totally in control, and with strike partners Stu Rudd and Jerome Wright allowing Patterson the freedom of the 18-yard box in which to ply his trade, the frontman grabbed his second on 23 minutes. Town simply could not gain a foothold in the game, with Tom Greaves isolated up front with little support. Skipper Pete Naylor was again a commanding figure in the Town midfield, but could count on few allies to stick their heads above the parapet in his battle against a rampant home side. Surprisingly the scoreline remained at 2-0 going into the second half, but with a couple of mystifying subsitutions further disrupting any game pattern Town had managed to establish, they fell further behind on 64 minutes, with Patterson again finding acres of space courtesy of Wright's measured through pass to fire home from close range.
Neil Towler had looked one of very few positives out on the left flank for Town, and had given full-back Matt Taylor plenty to think about, but with his withdrawal shortly before the strike, Town appeared to have effectively waved the white flag.
United continued to pour forward against an overworked Seasiders' defence, and Patterson struck again on 75 minutes, although the ball appeared to have taken a final touch on its way into the net off Town centre-back Lee Harper.
There was still plenty of room in the locker for United to heap more misery on the wretched visitors, and Rudd again had a large say in the fifth goal on 83 minutes, as his clever lay off found substitute Anthony Hargreaves, who notched his first goal for FC with a well placed low shot from the angle of the six-yard box.
Rudd was then guilty of playing to the gallery, as Patterson's pass found him free on goal almost on the penalty spot, but with the home fans simply waiting for the net to bulge, he chose to chip extravagantly over Hill and sent the ball over the bar.
It mattered little, as on 88 minutes, United wrapped up an afternoon that any Town fan present will want to erase swiftly from their memory with the sixth from a penalty, as Hargreaves' run on goal was unceremoniously halted by Harper, and Taylor helped himself to a rare goal by blasting the spot kick high and wide past Hill.
Town's day was summed up on the stroke of full time, when the only real chance created throughout the entire match fell to an unmarked Harper at the far post, who could only direct his header from Wayne Harratt's fine lay-off against the woodwork.
Town: Hill, Bonarius, Harper, Stoneman, Giblin, Rouse (Harratt 56) Towler (Bradshaw 63) Naylor, Berry, Greaves, Lackie (Dexter 75).
Last Updated: 27 August 2007 10:11 AM
Unlucky Town Reserves are defeated by FC United
Source: This is Cheshire
Warrington Town Reserves 1 FC United Reserves 2.
TOWN Reserves were unlucky to lose to FC United's second string in the Cheshire Soccer League Second Division at Cantilever Park on Saturday.
FC United, who are a breakaway club formed by Manchester United fans unhappy with Malcolm Glazer's regime at Old Trafford, went ahead when Carl Carey raced clear to beat goalkeeper Karl Wills in the opening 30 seconds of the match.
But Martin Bell capitalised on a mix-up in the visitors' defence to equalise on the half hour and Dave Berry then hit the crossbar after half time.
Jamie Rother gave FC United a fortuitous lead when he scored with 10 minutes remaining before Richie Sinker's injury-time header struck the post to consign Town to defeat.
Town: Wills, Parr, Hall, Davies, Sinker, Brown, Pithers, Berry, Jones, Bell (Preston), Toone. Subs not used: Taylor, Brownbill, Atkinson, Sargeant.
Warrington Town Reserves 1 FC United Reserves 2.
TOWN Reserves were unlucky to lose to FC United's second string in the Cheshire Soccer League Second Division at Cantilever Park on Saturday.
FC United, who are a breakaway club formed by Manchester United fans unhappy with Malcolm Glazer's regime at Old Trafford, went ahead when Carl Carey raced clear to beat goalkeeper Karl Wills in the opening 30 seconds of the match.
But Martin Bell capitalised on a mix-up in the visitors' defence to equalise on the half hour and Dave Berry then hit the crossbar after half time.
Jamie Rother gave FC United a fortuitous lead when he scored with 10 minutes remaining before Richie Sinker's injury-time header struck the post to consign Town to defeat.
Town: Wills, Parr, Hall, Davies, Sinker, Brown, Pithers, Berry, Jones, Bell (Preston), Toone. Subs not used: Taylor, Brownbill, Atkinson, Sargeant.
FC look for glory on historic cup day
Source: This is Lancashire
By Liam Chronnell
KARL Marginson has hailed FC United's first ever appearance in the FA Cup as one of the biggest days in the breakaway club's history.
The Rebels take their first steps on the road to Wembley when they take on rivals Trafford in the preliminary round at Altrincham's Moss Lane on Sunday.
The Gigg Lane tenants have had to wait until this year to enter the famous old competition. Rules stipulate that clubs must be in the FA Vase for a season before they can graduate to the more illustrious trophy.
But Marginson, whose side need to win five games before reaching the first round proper, is delighted the wait is finally over.
"It's an historic game with it being our first ever tie in the FA Cup," he said. "That's the beauty of managing a club that is brand new - everything we do is a first."
Marginson will be without the suspended Rory Patterson for the clash with the unbeaten North West Counties League outfit. The striker serves the second match of a three-game ban, reduced from 35 days on appeal.
But the Reds boss has no other injury problems and his side will go into the tie buoyed by two victories in three days.
He added: "We do go into the game feeling very confident. There was never a doubt in my mind that we would bounce back but you never know with players who have been so used to winning how they will react."
Marginson's men returned to winning ways in style with a superb 6-0 home victory over Bridlington Town on Saturday.
Patterson was the match-winner with four goals, while substitute Anthony Hargeaves and Matty Taylor's penalty completed the scoring.
Three days' later, Nicky Platt's late penalty secure the points in a 2-1 triumph against Rossendale United in front of a bumper crowd of 2,023.
The midfielder coolly stroked home an 85th-minute spot-kick after Stuart Rudd had been hauled down in the area.
Rudd had earlier given the visitors the lead from a free-kick on 70 minutes, but Rossendale levelled matters five minutes later through Mark Drew.
FC are also in action on Wednesday when they take on Alsager in the Challenge Cup, in a game which has been moved to Radcliffe Borough's Stainton Park ground.
By Liam Chronnell
KARL Marginson has hailed FC United's first ever appearance in the FA Cup as one of the biggest days in the breakaway club's history.
The Rebels take their first steps on the road to Wembley when they take on rivals Trafford in the preliminary round at Altrincham's Moss Lane on Sunday.
The Gigg Lane tenants have had to wait until this year to enter the famous old competition. Rules stipulate that clubs must be in the FA Vase for a season before they can graduate to the more illustrious trophy.
But Marginson, whose side need to win five games before reaching the first round proper, is delighted the wait is finally over.
"It's an historic game with it being our first ever tie in the FA Cup," he said. "That's the beauty of managing a club that is brand new - everything we do is a first."
Marginson will be without the suspended Rory Patterson for the clash with the unbeaten North West Counties League outfit. The striker serves the second match of a three-game ban, reduced from 35 days on appeal.
But the Reds boss has no other injury problems and his side will go into the tie buoyed by two victories in three days.
He added: "We do go into the game feeling very confident. There was never a doubt in my mind that we would bounce back but you never know with players who have been so used to winning how they will react."
Marginson's men returned to winning ways in style with a superb 6-0 home victory over Bridlington Town on Saturday.
Patterson was the match-winner with four goals, while substitute Anthony Hargeaves and Matty Taylor's penalty completed the scoring.
Three days' later, Nicky Platt's late penalty secure the points in a 2-1 triumph against Rossendale United in front of a bumper crowd of 2,023.
The midfielder coolly stroked home an 85th-minute spot-kick after Stuart Rudd had been hauled down in the area.
Rudd had earlier given the visitors the lead from a free-kick on 70 minutes, but Rossendale levelled matters five minutes later through Mark Drew.
FC are also in action on Wednesday when they take on Alsager in the Challenge Cup, in a game which has been moved to Radcliffe Borough's Stainton Park ground.
Arbogakille ger ut fotbollsbok
Source: magazin24.se (Sweden)
ARBOGA/MANCHESTER | Börjar säljas i nästa vecka
28-årige Mikael Holmkvist från Arboga bor sedan tre år tillbaks i Manchester, England.
Nu har Mikael skrivit en bok om sina upplevelser kring det som ligger honom allra närmast hjärtat - fotbollsklubben Manchester United FC.
Mikael Holmqvist är en 28-årig kille, som för tre år sedan lämnade Arboga till förmån för Manchester, England - för fotbollens skull.
- Fotboll och laget Manchester United FC är mitt liv, berättar Mikael Holmqvist för Magazin24.
Nu har Mikael förverkligat ännu en av sina drömmar, nämligen den om att skriva en bok. Vad boken handlar om? Fotboll, naturligtvis.
- Det känns jättekul! Jag har alltid drömt om att skriva en bok, säger Mikael.
Säljs i bokhandeln i Arboga
Boken heter "Ur askan reser sig FC United" och ges ut av Recito. Mikael började skriva boken i november 2006 och har tagit hjälp av sin syster med korrekturläsningen.
- Hon tycker att den är jättebra, hon höll på att skratta ihjäl sig, berättar Mikael.
"Ur askan reser sig FC United" beräknas komma från tryckeriet i nästa vecka. Den kommer att säljas på Internet via sockerdricka.nu samt i Arbogas bokhandel. Första upplagan är på 100 böcker - men om de säljer slut inom tre månader, så trycks ännu fler.
- Jag hoppas att många läser den, säger Mikael. Den passar såklart de som gillar fotboll, men även Arbogabor och...ja, den är rolig, så den passar nog nästan alla!
JOSEFIN SVENBERG
ARBOGA/MANCHESTER | Börjar säljas i nästa vecka
28-årige Mikael Holmkvist från Arboga bor sedan tre år tillbaks i Manchester, England.
Nu har Mikael skrivit en bok om sina upplevelser kring det som ligger honom allra närmast hjärtat - fotbollsklubben Manchester United FC.
Mikael Holmqvist är en 28-årig kille, som för tre år sedan lämnade Arboga till förmån för Manchester, England - för fotbollens skull.
- Fotboll och laget Manchester United FC är mitt liv, berättar Mikael Holmqvist för Magazin24.
Nu har Mikael förverkligat ännu en av sina drömmar, nämligen den om att skriva en bok. Vad boken handlar om? Fotboll, naturligtvis.
- Det känns jättekul! Jag har alltid drömt om att skriva en bok, säger Mikael.
Säljs i bokhandeln i Arboga
Boken heter "Ur askan reser sig FC United" och ges ut av Recito. Mikael började skriva boken i november 2006 och har tagit hjälp av sin syster med korrekturläsningen.
- Hon tycker att den är jättebra, hon höll på att skratta ihjäl sig, berättar Mikael.
"Ur askan reser sig FC United" beräknas komma från tryckeriet i nästa vecka. Den kommer att säljas på Internet via sockerdricka.nu samt i Arbogas bokhandel. Första upplagan är på 100 böcker - men om de säljer slut inom tre månader, så trycks ännu fler.
- Jag hoppas att många läser den, säger Mikael. Den passar såklart de som gillar fotboll, men även Arbogabor och...ja, den är rolig, så den passar nog nästan alla!
JOSEFIN SVENBERG
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Rossendale United 1 FC United 2
Source: Lancashire Telegraph
ROSSENDALE United agonisingly lost to FC United yesterday - but can bank on a big pay day.
Dale were beaten 2-1, with United grabbing the winner with 10 minutes to go.
But just over 2,000 fans packed into Dark Lane to fill the coffers for the Unibond League side.
Rossendale keeper Lee Bracey made excellent first-half saves from Stuart Rudd and Steve Spencer.
The first goal came when United were awarded a free kick on the edge of the Rossendale area. Rudd fired a low hard shot that flew past the wall.
Rossendale got back on level terms when David Chadwick squared the ball to Mark Drew, and he finished well.
But United had the last laugh when Rudd was brought down in the box, and Nicky Platt converted the spot-kick.
ROSSENDALE United agonisingly lost to FC United yesterday - but can bank on a big pay day.
Dale were beaten 2-1, with United grabbing the winner with 10 minutes to go.
But just over 2,000 fans packed into Dark Lane to fill the coffers for the Unibond League side.
Rossendale keeper Lee Bracey made excellent first-half saves from Stuart Rudd and Steve Spencer.
The first goal came when United were awarded a free kick on the edge of the Rossendale area. Rudd fired a low hard shot that flew past the wall.
Rossendale got back on level terms when David Chadwick squared the ball to Mark Drew, and he finished well.
But United had the last laugh when Rudd was brought down in the box, and Nicky Platt converted the spot-kick.
United we stand
Source: Mirror.co.uk
By Iain Hepburn
A little moment of history will be made this weekend in the North West of England.
The vast majority of attention in Manchester will be focused on Roy Keane’s return to Old Trafford with his Sunderland side on Saturday night.
But almost a day later, and a few miles away, FC United will be playing Trafford FC at Moss Lane.
And why is this significant, you ask? Because it will mark FC United’s debut in the FA Cup, the world’s oldest cup competition and the trophy Manchester United have won 11 times.
It may only be the preliminary round of the competition – almost, but not quite, as early as you can embark on the road to Wembley. But it marks another milestone for the little club born two years ago, and forged out of protest and anger.
Victory at this stage of the competition is worth £1000 to a club – nothing if you’re the Premiership champions, but a hell of a lot to sides further down the pyramid.
At this level of the cup, the names may be unfamiliar but the stories aren’t. London ASPA won their extra preliminary replay against Sporting Bengal last week – making them the first Asian team to make the preliminary round.
For the sides taking part in this weekend’s fixtures, they’re just 11 rounds away from the final.
Both teams were founded from passion and a disenfranchised community – be it at the semi-pro level, as players wanting to be a standard bearer for Asian football in the UK, or at the top of the Premier League, left out in the cold by United’s takeover by the Glazer family and the direction of the club.
And both now find themselves, like around 600 others, on the road to Wembley.
Forget all the hype, all the media glitz and glamour. That’s the real magic of the FA Cup.
By Iain Hepburn
A little moment of history will be made this weekend in the North West of England.
The vast majority of attention in Manchester will be focused on Roy Keane’s return to Old Trafford with his Sunderland side on Saturday night.
But almost a day later, and a few miles away, FC United will be playing Trafford FC at Moss Lane.
And why is this significant, you ask? Because it will mark FC United’s debut in the FA Cup, the world’s oldest cup competition and the trophy Manchester United have won 11 times.
It may only be the preliminary round of the competition – almost, but not quite, as early as you can embark on the road to Wembley. But it marks another milestone for the little club born two years ago, and forged out of protest and anger.
Victory at this stage of the competition is worth £1000 to a club – nothing if you’re the Premiership champions, but a hell of a lot to sides further down the pyramid.
At this level of the cup, the names may be unfamiliar but the stories aren’t. London ASPA won their extra preliminary replay against Sporting Bengal last week – making them the first Asian team to make the preliminary round.
For the sides taking part in this weekend’s fixtures, they’re just 11 rounds away from the final.
Both teams were founded from passion and a disenfranchised community – be it at the semi-pro level, as players wanting to be a standard bearer for Asian football in the UK, or at the top of the Premier League, left out in the cold by United’s takeover by the Glazer family and the direction of the club.
And both now find themselves, like around 600 others, on the road to Wembley.
Forget all the hype, all the media glitz and glamour. That’s the real magic of the FA Cup.
Rossendale 1 FC United 2
Source: M.E.N.
FC UNITED had striker Stuart Rudd to thank for their second successive victory as they won 2-1 away at Rossendale.
The big number nine scored one and won the penalty for the second as FC triumphed in the UniBond First Division North clash.
A bumper bank holiday crowd of 2,023 at Dark Lane saw Rudd crack in a 25-yard free-kick before the home side equalised before the break through Mark Drew.
But Rudd was impeded in the box with 10 minutes left and Nicky Platt put the penalty away to make it two wins from four games for United.
FC UNITED had striker Stuart Rudd to thank for their second successive victory as they won 2-1 away at Rossendale.
The big number nine scored one and won the penalty for the second as FC triumphed in the UniBond First Division North clash.
A bumper bank holiday crowd of 2,023 at Dark Lane saw Rudd crack in a 25-yard free-kick before the home side equalised before the break through Mark Drew.
But Rudd was impeded in the box with 10 minutes left and Nicky Platt put the penalty away to make it two wins from four games for United.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Nicky is spot on for Rebels
Source: The Bolton News
By Liam Chronnell
NICKY Platt's late penalty helped FC United defeat Rossendale 2-1 in the UniBond Division One North.
The midfielder coolly stroked home the 85th-minute spot-kick after Stuart Rudd had been hauled down in the area.
Rudd had earlier given the Rebels the lead from a free-kick on 70 minutes, but Rossendale were level five minutes later through Mark Drew.
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However, Platt kept his nerve from 12 yards to hand United the points in front of a crowd of 2,023 at Dark Lane.
By Liam Chronnell
NICKY Platt's late penalty helped FC United defeat Rossendale 2-1 in the UniBond Division One North.
The midfielder coolly stroked home the 85th-minute spot-kick after Stuart Rudd had been hauled down in the area.
Rudd had earlier given the Rebels the lead from a free-kick on 70 minutes, but Rossendale were level five minutes later through Mark Drew.
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However, Platt kept his nerve from 12 yards to hand United the points in front of a crowd of 2,023 at Dark Lane.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Rebels blast back in style
Rebels blast back in style
By Liam Chronnell
Source: The Bolton News
FC UNITED returned to winning ways in style with a superb 6-0 home victory over Bridlington Town.
Rory Patterson hit four goals to help the Rebels, who visit Rossendale United today, register their first points after losing their opening two Unibond League First Division North fixtures.
The star striker, who had been a doubt after limping off in the midweek defeat against Garthforth Town, opened the scoring on 14 minutes, before adding a second eight minutes later.
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But Patterson had to wait until 70 minutes for his hat-trick strike and wrapped up the contest when he headed a fourth 10 minutes later.
Substitute Anthony Hargeaves made it five and Matty Taylor completed the scoring from the penalty spot.
By Liam Chronnell
Source: The Bolton News
FC UNITED returned to winning ways in style with a superb 6-0 home victory over Bridlington Town.
Rory Patterson hit four goals to help the Rebels, who visit Rossendale United today, register their first points after losing their opening two Unibond League First Division North fixtures.
The star striker, who had been a doubt after limping off in the midweek defeat against Garthforth Town, opened the scoring on 14 minutes, before adding a second eight minutes later.
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But Patterson had to wait until 70 minutes for his hat-trick strike and wrapped up the contest when he headed a fourth 10 minutes later.
Substitute Anthony Hargeaves made it five and Matty Taylor completed the scoring from the penalty spot.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Reds get a Warning
Reds get a warning
By Liam Chronnell
Source: The Bolton News
FC United boss Karl Marginson has urged his players to fight fire with fire as they chase their first win of the UniBond League Division One North season.
After seeing the Gigg Laners lose their opening two games, the Rebels entertain Bridlington tomorrow searching for their first points of the campaign.
"You learn a lot more in defeat," said Marginson, who has been disappointed with the theatrics displayed in newly-promoted FC's new environment.
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"I think a lot of the players watch too much Premier League football on television because of the theatrics that go on, with the amount of pestering to the referees.
"I just want my players to do their jobs and be honest, but we'll fight fire with fire when we need to."
Striker Rory Patterson is expected to be sidelined with a foot injury.
Radcliffe Boro are also looking for their first point of the season when they host Lancaster City at Stainton Park.
Boro have been made to pay for defensive lapses in defeats against Wakefield and Rossendale, and will still be without summer signing Mike Flynn.
"We are playing well, but we need to learn how to deal with pressure when it comes," said coach Kevin Glendon. "We can't afford to bring anyone in without moving someone out so we have to get on with it.
"Michael Oates and Ian Fitzpatrick played well up-front in mid-week and it would be nice if they could keep that partnership going."
By Liam Chronnell
Source: The Bolton News
FC United boss Karl Marginson has urged his players to fight fire with fire as they chase their first win of the UniBond League Division One North season.
After seeing the Gigg Laners lose their opening two games, the Rebels entertain Bridlington tomorrow searching for their first points of the campaign.
"You learn a lot more in defeat," said Marginson, who has been disappointed with the theatrics displayed in newly-promoted FC's new environment.
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"I think a lot of the players watch too much Premier League football on television because of the theatrics that go on, with the amount of pestering to the referees.
"I just want my players to do their jobs and be honest, but we'll fight fire with fire when we need to."
Striker Rory Patterson is expected to be sidelined with a foot injury.
Radcliffe Boro are also looking for their first point of the season when they host Lancaster City at Stainton Park.
Boro have been made to pay for defensive lapses in defeats against Wakefield and Rossendale, and will still be without summer signing Mike Flynn.
"We are playing well, but we need to learn how to deal with pressure when it comes," said coach Kevin Glendon. "We can't afford to bring anyone in without moving someone out so we have to get on with it.
"Michael Oates and Ian Fitzpatrick played well up-front in mid-week and it would be nice if they could keep that partnership going."
FC United 0 Garforth Town 1
Source: Manchester Evening News
RETURNING FC United striker Stuart Rudd was sent-off as his side's poor start to the season continued with defeat at the hands of Garforth Town.
The Reds hit the bar and had a goal disallowed for off-side in the final minute but the visitors hung on for victory in front of 2,216 fans at Gigg Lane.
Before his sending off, following an innocuous-looking incident, Rudd had already headed wide just after half-time and then fired past the post soon afterwards.
But as the rebel Reds pressed forward in search of an opening goal, the visitors suddenly broke away and midfielder Chris Kamara netted from close-range to the delight of the 60 strong travelling army.
FC United substitute Chris Bagguley fired a 30 yard free-kick just wide as the Reds went in search of an equaliser and Rob Nugent then hit the bar with a header before Simon Carden's strike was ruled out in the last minute.
However, despite that pressure the visitors held on and the result leaves FC pointless after two games.
RETURNING FC United striker Stuart Rudd was sent-off as his side's poor start to the season continued with defeat at the hands of Garforth Town.
The Reds hit the bar and had a goal disallowed for off-side in the final minute but the visitors hung on for victory in front of 2,216 fans at Gigg Lane.
Before his sending off, following an innocuous-looking incident, Rudd had already headed wide just after half-time and then fired past the post soon afterwards.
But as the rebel Reds pressed forward in search of an opening goal, the visitors suddenly broke away and midfielder Chris Kamara netted from close-range to the delight of the 60 strong travelling army.
FC United substitute Chris Bagguley fired a 30 yard free-kick just wide as the Reds went in search of an equaliser and Rob Nugent then hit the bar with a header before Simon Carden's strike was ruled out in the last minute.
However, despite that pressure the visitors held on and the result leaves FC pointless after two games.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Rebe Reds suffer another setback
Rebel Reds suffer another setback
By Liam Chronnell
Source: The Bolton News
FC United's disastrous start to the new season continued as they went down narrowly at home to Garforth Town.
After back-to-back title-winning seasons, the breakaway club have now lost the opening two games of the Unibond League First Division campaign.
The visitors' Chris Kamara scored the only goal of the game after the break to cap a miserable night for Karl Marginson's side.
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FC's problems began in the first half when star striker Rory Patterson limped off with a suspected hairline fracture of the foot and is set to face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
The Rebels then fell behind midway through the second half and their problems worsened five minutes later when top scorer Stuart Rudd, who made an unexpected early return from a broken hand, was shown a straight red card.
The home side still piled forward in search of an equaliser and were unlucky when first Rob Nugent hit the crossbar in the last minute then Simon Carden thought he had grabbed a late leveller only to see his effort disallowed.
By Liam Chronnell
Source: The Bolton News
FC United's disastrous start to the new season continued as they went down narrowly at home to Garforth Town.
After back-to-back title-winning seasons, the breakaway club have now lost the opening two games of the Unibond League First Division campaign.
The visitors' Chris Kamara scored the only goal of the game after the break to cap a miserable night for Karl Marginson's side.
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FC's problems began in the first half when star striker Rory Patterson limped off with a suspected hairline fracture of the foot and is set to face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
The Rebels then fell behind midway through the second half and their problems worsened five minutes later when top scorer Stuart Rudd, who made an unexpected early return from a broken hand, was shown a straight red card.
The home side still piled forward in search of an equaliser and were unlucky when first Rob Nugent hit the crossbar in the last minute then Simon Carden thought he had grabbed a late leveller only to see his effort disallowed.
FC United stumble on opening day
Source: Bury Times
By Liam Chronnell
Lancaster City 2 FC United 1
BOSS Karl Marginson is remaining upbeat despite FC United's opening-day defeat at Lancaster City.
After back-to-back promotions, the breakaway club received an early reminder that they will not be having all their own way in UniBond League Division One North as they went down 2-1 at the Giant Axe.
But Marginson, who side were back in action against Garforth Town at Gigg Lane last night, is not unduly concerned.
"We are upbeat and positive," he said. "The league isn't won or lost on the first day of the season.
"Against Lancaster, we prepared right and have done all the little things that you should do right. It was just one of those days when we couldn't force a goal."
The visitors found themselves a goal down after Lancaster's Ian Stevens headed home three minutes before half-time. Substitute Jimmy Love sealed the game for newly-relegated City in the last minute, though there was still time for Jerome Wright to pull back a late consolation.
Marginson's men entertain Bridlington Town on Saturday, but they will still be without last season's top scorer, Stuart Rudd, who is expected to be sidelined for a further two weeks with a broken hand.
By Liam Chronnell
Lancaster City 2 FC United 1
BOSS Karl Marginson is remaining upbeat despite FC United's opening-day defeat at Lancaster City.
After back-to-back promotions, the breakaway club received an early reminder that they will not be having all their own way in UniBond League Division One North as they went down 2-1 at the Giant Axe.
But Marginson, who side were back in action against Garforth Town at Gigg Lane last night, is not unduly concerned.
"We are upbeat and positive," he said. "The league isn't won or lost on the first day of the season.
"Against Lancaster, we prepared right and have done all the little things that you should do right. It was just one of those days when we couldn't force a goal."
The visitors found themselves a goal down after Lancaster's Ian Stevens headed home three minutes before half-time. Substitute Jimmy Love sealed the game for newly-relegated City in the last minute, though there was still time for Jerome Wright to pull back a late consolation.
Marginson's men entertain Bridlington Town on Saturday, but they will still be without last season's top scorer, Stuart Rudd, who is expected to be sidelined for a further two weeks with a broken hand.
Rudd poised for return
Source: M.E.N.
FC UNITED hope to welcome back star striker Stuart Rudd for their first home game of the season in the UniBond First Division North against Garforth Town tonight (7.45pm).
The Reds suffered from a distinct lack of firepower as they lost their opener 2-1 at Lancaster City on Saturday and manager Karl Marginson is keen to get Rudd back into the fray as they seek their first points of the new campaign.
Last season's top scorer Rudd suffered a broken wrist in a domestic accident in July and was expected to miss the first two weeks of the season, but he has returned to his job as a bricklayer ahead of schedule.
Marginson said: "Rudd was a big miss for us on Saturday as we had a number of chances in the box that he would have thrived on.
"We will give him a late fitness test, but indications are he will return, which is obviously a big boost."
FC UNITED hope to welcome back star striker Stuart Rudd for their first home game of the season in the UniBond First Division North against Garforth Town tonight (7.45pm).
The Reds suffered from a distinct lack of firepower as they lost their opener 2-1 at Lancaster City on Saturday and manager Karl Marginson is keen to get Rudd back into the fray as they seek their first points of the new campaign.
Last season's top scorer Rudd suffered a broken wrist in a domestic accident in July and was expected to miss the first two weeks of the season, but he has returned to his job as a bricklayer ahead of schedule.
Marginson said: "Rudd was a big miss for us on Saturday as we had a number of chances in the box that he would have thrived on.
"We will give him a late fitness test, but indications are he will return, which is obviously a big boost."
Monday, August 20, 2007
Lancaster 2 FC United 1
Source: Manchester Evening News
FC United had a baptism of fire in the tough world of the UniBond first division.
Lancaster scored on the break, against the run of play in first half stoppage time through Ian Stevens and United spent the second half chasing the game.
Inevitably, the home side again scored from a breakaway with a late effort from Jimmy Love after FC skipper Dave Chadwick had earlier hit the bar from a header.
Jerome Wright got one back straight from kick-off but it was too late and the majority of the 2,257 crowd went home disappointed.
FC United had a baptism of fire in the tough world of the UniBond first division.
Lancaster scored on the break, against the run of play in first half stoppage time through Ian Stevens and United spent the second half chasing the game.
Inevitably, the home side again scored from a breakaway with a late effort from Jimmy Love after FC skipper Dave Chadwick had earlier hit the bar from a header.
Jerome Wright got one back straight from kick-off but it was too late and the majority of the 2,257 crowd went home disappointed.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Striker blow for FC United
Source: M.E.N.
Stuart Brennan
15/ 8/2007
RORY Patterson is set to miss eight FC United matches next month after being reported for a red card during a pre-season friendly.
The Rebels' star striker, named as non-league Young Player of the Year last season, has picked up a 35-day suspension for "violent conduct" during the 2-1 defeat by Trafford two weeks ago.
The club is planning to appeal but, unless they are successful, the ban is expected to start on September 5 which means Patterson would miss a big FA Cup clash with Fleetwood Town should FC battle through their preliminary round tie against either Atherton LR or Trafford.
News of the ban for Patterson, who has scored 58 goals in 78 games for FC, is a third big blow to the club just days ahead of their debut in the UniBond League when they travel to play Lancaster City on Saturday.
The club has lost last season's top scorer, Stuart Rudd, for the opening three weeks of the season with a broken hand, although a special cast may allow him to return before Patterson's ban kicks in.
And Rhodri Giggs, who would have partnered Patterson up front, has left the club for Curzon Ashton following a dispute with manager Karl Marginson after the player turned up late for the pre-season friendly at AFC Wimbledon.
That means new boy Anthony Hargreaves, a former Flixton and Cammell Laird striker, is expected to make his FC debut at Lancaster.
Stuart Brennan
15/ 8/2007
RORY Patterson is set to miss eight FC United matches next month after being reported for a red card during a pre-season friendly.
The Rebels' star striker, named as non-league Young Player of the Year last season, has picked up a 35-day suspension for "violent conduct" during the 2-1 defeat by Trafford two weeks ago.
The club is planning to appeal but, unless they are successful, the ban is expected to start on September 5 which means Patterson would miss a big FA Cup clash with Fleetwood Town should FC battle through their preliminary round tie against either Atherton LR or Trafford.
News of the ban for Patterson, who has scored 58 goals in 78 games for FC, is a third big blow to the club just days ahead of their debut in the UniBond League when they travel to play Lancaster City on Saturday.
The club has lost last season's top scorer, Stuart Rudd, for the opening three weeks of the season with a broken hand, although a special cast may allow him to return before Patterson's ban kicks in.
And Rhodri Giggs, who would have partnered Patterson up front, has left the club for Curzon Ashton following a dispute with manager Karl Marginson after the player turned up late for the pre-season friendly at AFC Wimbledon.
That means new boy Anthony Hargreaves, a former Flixton and Cammell Laird striker, is expected to make his FC debut at Lancaster.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
This year I'll ride the snake like a soccer shaman
Edited from: Guardian Sport Blogs
When caught up in the magic of live football it's easy to believe that the power of the crowd is what ultimately matters; the inherent unity feels like socialism but each of the screaming 34,000 has been taxed on entry and however loud they may sound their voices are seldom heard. It is apparently futile to resist progress although tiny victories are occasionally achieved: disenchanted Manchester United fans have established FC United, a collectively financed club that truly belongs to its supporters. Presumably, though, were the club to clamber through the multitude of leagues to penetrate the national consciousness and challenge for trinkets the inevitable tide would also consume this idealistic vessel.
When caught up in the magic of live football it's easy to believe that the power of the crowd is what ultimately matters; the inherent unity feels like socialism but each of the screaming 34,000 has been taxed on entry and however loud they may sound their voices are seldom heard. It is apparently futile to resist progress although tiny victories are occasionally achieved: disenchanted Manchester United fans have established FC United, a collectively financed club that truly belongs to its supporters. Presumably, though, were the club to clamber through the multitude of leagues to penetrate the national consciousness and challenge for trinkets the inevitable tide would also consume this idealistic vessel.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Swarbrick and FC United ready for new challenge
Source: North West Evening Mail
FOOTBALL
BARROW footballer Dave Swarbrick is stepping up another level this season with his league-storming FC United of Manchester team.
The former Barrow AFC and Holker Old Boys attacking midfielder will line-up in Unibond League Division One North as the supporters’ spin-off team look to continue their march up the tiers of English football.
And Swarbrick is optimistic for both his own and his team’s fortunes ahead of the new campaign.
“Pre-season has gone really well. It’s my first full pre-season in a while so I’m feeling good,” said the 23-year-old, who trains twice a week with the squad in the Manchester area.
“The training has been really hard, but all the lads have naturally high levels of fitness.
“I’m confident in myself and the team are definitely confident.
“We recently drew with a strong Kidderminster side and they are a Conference team.”
FC United, formed in 2005 by supporters angry at Malcolm Glazer’s takeover of Manchster United, have shown well in their pre-season friendlies and Swarbrick believes that promotion is a realistic target.
“We’ve played friendlies against teams from higher divisions and we’ve coped well,” said Swarbrick, whose 2006/07 season was disrupted by a knee problem which required an operation.
“I think we’re capable of challenging for the title this season.”
One player Swarbrick will not be lining up alongside this season is Rhodri Giggs — brother of Ryan — who was recently released by the Red Rebels and is rumoured to be joining rivals Curzon Ashton. The opening fixture in FC United’s league campaign is on Saturday, August 18 with a trip to Lancaster City.
And, with former Furness Cavaliers centre-half Chris Lysons now signed up and playing for the Dolly Blues, the season opener could provide a match-up between former team-mates.
“Chris is a good player and I think he can do well in that league,” said Swarbrick.
Lysons could be joined at Giant Axe this coming season by Millom-based ex-AFC striker Carl Waters and Furness Cavaliers frontman Pat Staunton. Both have been trialing for the Dolly Blues during this pre-season.
l Dalton United were held to a goalless draw at home by Garstang in the West Lancs Premier Division on Tuesday night. The Railway Meadow outfit — who won their season opener 3-2 against Barnoldswick — hit the woodwork three times and had two penalty shouts turned down.
Co-manager Jon Balm said: “I was really pleased with our performance, we did everything but score.
“Garstang came to do a job and put 10 men behind the ball.”
During the game, teenager Joel Callister broke his nose and cracked his cheekbone following an accidental clash of heads. He is recovering at home.
Sam Stephens played in goal but is expected to return for Holker Old Boys this Saturday when they begin their North West Counties Division Two campaign at home to Bootle.
l There will be a benefit match for well-known local footballer Andy Baharmanesh this Sunday.
The game between Vickerstown and Barrow AFC reserves will take place at Park Vale (2pm start).
Baharmanesh suffered a serious leg injury while playing for AFC reserves in January.
The horrific injury left the soldier’s army career in tatters.
AFC reserves won their second pre-season friendly when they defeated Bootle 6-3 at Holker Street on Tuesday night.
Tod Bamber (2), Kris Lancaster (2), Phil Morris and Liam Holmes netted for the Bluebirds in a highly-entertaining game.
The Bootle scorers were Andrew Marshall, Wayne Dawson and Steven Moore.
AFC reserve team boss Ian Gay would like to thank Bootle for their co-operation in arranging the fixture.
AFC reserves: C Burns, D Pattinson, G Smith, J MCGoldrick, P Johnson, W Napier, J Gay, K Lancaster, T Bamber, J Jones, P Morris. Subs used: R Grainey, L Holmes.
l There were two preliminary round games in the Paul Wilson Memorial Trophy on Monday night.
Holders BAE Barrow SC reserves beat Furness Cavaliers reserves 5-4 after extra-time.
The scores were tied at 4-4 after 90 minutes, with the extra-time winner coming from player/manager Stuart Walker.
The other scorers for BAE were Stuart Houston, Grant Cumberbatch, Danny Graham and Mark Bonner. Cavs’ scorers were Michael Johnson, Dale Cleece, Steve Morgan and Stephen Lancaster.
In the other game, Furness Athletic (previously called Furness Hotel) began their season with an excellent 2-1 win at Tummerhill against Walney Island.
Their man-of-the-match James McGoldrick scored both goals, with Chris Burns replying for Walney.
The Furness Premier League season starts in earnest this weekend with Premier Division games tomorrow night (6.15pm) and Division One games on Saturday afternoon (2pm.)
Clubs are reminded that results should be texted to 07709 695250 by the home club and should include the scorers from both teams.
FOOTBALL
BARROW footballer Dave Swarbrick is stepping up another level this season with his league-storming FC United of Manchester team.
The former Barrow AFC and Holker Old Boys attacking midfielder will line-up in Unibond League Division One North as the supporters’ spin-off team look to continue their march up the tiers of English football.
And Swarbrick is optimistic for both his own and his team’s fortunes ahead of the new campaign.
“Pre-season has gone really well. It’s my first full pre-season in a while so I’m feeling good,” said the 23-year-old, who trains twice a week with the squad in the Manchester area.
“The training has been really hard, but all the lads have naturally high levels of fitness.
“I’m confident in myself and the team are definitely confident.
“We recently drew with a strong Kidderminster side and they are a Conference team.”
FC United, formed in 2005 by supporters angry at Malcolm Glazer’s takeover of Manchster United, have shown well in their pre-season friendlies and Swarbrick believes that promotion is a realistic target.
“We’ve played friendlies against teams from higher divisions and we’ve coped well,” said Swarbrick, whose 2006/07 season was disrupted by a knee problem which required an operation.
“I think we’re capable of challenging for the title this season.”
One player Swarbrick will not be lining up alongside this season is Rhodri Giggs — brother of Ryan — who was recently released by the Red Rebels and is rumoured to be joining rivals Curzon Ashton. The opening fixture in FC United’s league campaign is on Saturday, August 18 with a trip to Lancaster City.
And, with former Furness Cavaliers centre-half Chris Lysons now signed up and playing for the Dolly Blues, the season opener could provide a match-up between former team-mates.
“Chris is a good player and I think he can do well in that league,” said Swarbrick.
Lysons could be joined at Giant Axe this coming season by Millom-based ex-AFC striker Carl Waters and Furness Cavaliers frontman Pat Staunton. Both have been trialing for the Dolly Blues during this pre-season.
l Dalton United were held to a goalless draw at home by Garstang in the West Lancs Premier Division on Tuesday night. The Railway Meadow outfit — who won their season opener 3-2 against Barnoldswick — hit the woodwork three times and had two penalty shouts turned down.
Co-manager Jon Balm said: “I was really pleased with our performance, we did everything but score.
“Garstang came to do a job and put 10 men behind the ball.”
During the game, teenager Joel Callister broke his nose and cracked his cheekbone following an accidental clash of heads. He is recovering at home.
Sam Stephens played in goal but is expected to return for Holker Old Boys this Saturday when they begin their North West Counties Division Two campaign at home to Bootle.
l There will be a benefit match for well-known local footballer Andy Baharmanesh this Sunday.
The game between Vickerstown and Barrow AFC reserves will take place at Park Vale (2pm start).
Baharmanesh suffered a serious leg injury while playing for AFC reserves in January.
The horrific injury left the soldier’s army career in tatters.
AFC reserves won their second pre-season friendly when they defeated Bootle 6-3 at Holker Street on Tuesday night.
Tod Bamber (2), Kris Lancaster (2), Phil Morris and Liam Holmes netted for the Bluebirds in a highly-entertaining game.
The Bootle scorers were Andrew Marshall, Wayne Dawson and Steven Moore.
AFC reserve team boss Ian Gay would like to thank Bootle for their co-operation in arranging the fixture.
AFC reserves: C Burns, D Pattinson, G Smith, J MCGoldrick, P Johnson, W Napier, J Gay, K Lancaster, T Bamber, J Jones, P Morris. Subs used: R Grainey, L Holmes.
l There were two preliminary round games in the Paul Wilson Memorial Trophy on Monday night.
Holders BAE Barrow SC reserves beat Furness Cavaliers reserves 5-4 after extra-time.
The scores were tied at 4-4 after 90 minutes, with the extra-time winner coming from player/manager Stuart Walker.
The other scorers for BAE were Stuart Houston, Grant Cumberbatch, Danny Graham and Mark Bonner. Cavs’ scorers were Michael Johnson, Dale Cleece, Steve Morgan and Stephen Lancaster.
In the other game, Furness Athletic (previously called Furness Hotel) began their season with an excellent 2-1 win at Tummerhill against Walney Island.
Their man-of-the-match James McGoldrick scored both goals, with Chris Burns replying for Walney.
The Furness Premier League season starts in earnest this weekend with Premier Division games tomorrow night (6.15pm) and Division One games on Saturday afternoon (2pm.)
Clubs are reminded that results should be texted to 07709 695250 by the home club and should include the scorers from both teams.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Sealing Giggs swoop
Source: Tameside Advertiser
CURZON Ashton have moved quickly to snap up former Mossley winger Rhodri Giggs after he parted company with FC United on Monday.
Giggs (pictured) scored 15 goals in his 37 appearances during FC’s title-winning campaign last season which saw them secure promotion into the UniBond League along with Curzon.
However, Giggs’ arrival was quickly followed by one player going through the exit door as the former Stalybridge Celtic and Hyde United defender Dave German departed the Tameside Stadium.
Curzon manager Gary Lowe said: “When I heard Rhodri had parted company with FC, I knew that I would have to move quickly to secure his signature as I felt sure that there would be interest in him from a number of other clubs.
“Not surprisingly we know a lot about Rhodri having come up against him as we did last season as well as watching him in one or two other games, and with a couple pre-season games to go before the season starts, he’ll obviously figure very heavily in those games.
“Unfortunately it wasn’t working out with Dave and so we both agreed that it would be best if we parted company now rather than later.
“It gives him the chance to find another club and for us to find a replacement before the kick-off to the season. We wish him well.”
Curzon, who lost 2-0 at UniBond South newcomers Quorn last weekend, come up against Sheffield FC at the Tameside Stadium with the visitors – who won last season’s Northern Counties East League Premier Division – reputed to be the oldest club in football, formed almost 150 years ago in October 1857. The game kicks off at 2pm with admission £5 for adults and £2 concessions.
First published by the Tameside Advertiser
CURZON Ashton have moved quickly to snap up former Mossley winger Rhodri Giggs after he parted company with FC United on Monday.
Giggs (pictured) scored 15 goals in his 37 appearances during FC’s title-winning campaign last season which saw them secure promotion into the UniBond League along with Curzon.
However, Giggs’ arrival was quickly followed by one player going through the exit door as the former Stalybridge Celtic and Hyde United defender Dave German departed the Tameside Stadium.
Curzon manager Gary Lowe said: “When I heard Rhodri had parted company with FC, I knew that I would have to move quickly to secure his signature as I felt sure that there would be interest in him from a number of other clubs.
“Not surprisingly we know a lot about Rhodri having come up against him as we did last season as well as watching him in one or two other games, and with a couple pre-season games to go before the season starts, he’ll obviously figure very heavily in those games.
“Unfortunately it wasn’t working out with Dave and so we both agreed that it would be best if we parted company now rather than later.
“It gives him the chance to find another club and for us to find a replacement before the kick-off to the season. We wish him well.”
Curzon, who lost 2-0 at UniBond South newcomers Quorn last weekend, come up against Sheffield FC at the Tameside Stadium with the visitors – who won last season’s Northern Counties East League Premier Division – reputed to be the oldest club in football, formed almost 150 years ago in October 1857. The game kicks off at 2pm with admission £5 for adults and £2 concessions.
First published by the Tameside Advertiser
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Dons win against FC United
Source: South London Press
Aug 6 2007
John Stanton Reports From The Cherry Red Records Fans' Stadium
AFC DONS 2 FC UNITED 0
AS GIGGS tore down the wing and cut inside,AFC Wimbledon fans could have been forgiven for thinking they were watching the Wimbledon of old, taking on the country's elite.
This, though, was Ryan's brother Rhodri, and the occasion was the Dons' first home pre-season friendly of the season, their annual battle with fellow fans' club FC United.
This Giggs, the spitting image of his more famous brother, was powerless to stop wave after wave of home attacks, as Wimbledon finally added a potency to their play that had previously been missing in pre-season.
The Dons have looked defensively adept throughout their friendly matches, but have lacked the creativity in the final third to really excite their demanding fans.
But the mood at the end of this encounter was one of optimism, a sense of hope engulfing the Fans' Stadium after a display in which their side pummelled the visitors with a near constant stream of attacks, testing FC United keeper Sam Ashton 16 times in total.
Having spent the summer months searching for the one man he hoped would fire his side to promotion, Terry Brown eventually chose Daniel Webb, the striker with Champions League experience.
In his home debut for the Dons, he impressed throughout and gave Brown much cause for satisfaction.
The manager admitted last week that he has no idea of his best front two for the start of the season, but the performances of Webb and strike partner Richard Jolly will have done much to help Brown make his decision.
The win was eventually secured at a canter, but in the opening stages it was FC United who looked the more composed side, pinging the ball around with confidence.
For all their neat, intricate approach play, though, they failed to trouble Andy Little in the early stages.
The Dons came closest in the first 15 minutes,with Webb and Steve Ferguson both bringing saves from Ashton, the visitors' outstanding player.
And the pressure soon told when, on 20 minutes, United captain Dave Chadwick clambered all over Jolly in the box.
Referee Ian Crouch pointed straight to the spot, but Sam Hatton's fiercely-struck effort was saved brilliantly by Ashton as he flung himself to his right.
At the other end Dave Swarbrick did manage to outfox Jake Leberl down the United right, but his shot flashed harmlessly across the face of Little's goal.
That aside,it was all Wimbledon. Hatton's effort from an acute angle was hacked off the line by Rob Nugent before, finally, after 41 minutes, the Dons scored the goal their pressure deserved.
Luke Garrard and Hatton combined well on the right, teeing up Ferguson to deliver an inviting cross for Webb, who flung himself towards the ball and directed it perfectly beyond the despairing Ashton's right hand.
Then, with 30 seconds of stoppage time already played, United's Dale Whitehead aimed a casual pass to Liam Foster, but the alert Tony Finn intercepted and raced through, before sliding the ball under the exposed Ashton.
The second half saw more of the same, though the keeper refused to be beaten.
Perhaps it will worry Brown that his side missed so many chances, but it is more likely he will be delighted by the ease with which his attacking players found themselves in scoring positions.
Webb raced clean through on goal on the hour mark, but he shot straight at the keeper, while Finn's brilliant effort a minute later was superbly tipped onto the post by Ashton, the keeper by now working overtime.
Jolly was the next to benefit from slack United defending after good work from Ferguson to rob Shaun Roscoe,but again Ashton saved his team.
The keeper then had about an eight minute breather before his next heroic stop, a full-length dive to his right to turn a fizzing Hatton 25-yarder round the post.
Eventually, the onslaught drew to a close, though not before Karl Beckford produced a piece of magic to split the United defence once more, threading a pass to Webb, but Ashton sprinted from his line to close down the imposing striker.
If Giggs had been the star name, it was the performances of the Dons players which really stole the show.
Aug 6 2007
John Stanton Reports From The Cherry Red Records Fans' Stadium
AFC DONS 2 FC UNITED 0
AS GIGGS tore down the wing and cut inside,AFC Wimbledon fans could have been forgiven for thinking they were watching the Wimbledon of old, taking on the country's elite.
This, though, was Ryan's brother Rhodri, and the occasion was the Dons' first home pre-season friendly of the season, their annual battle with fellow fans' club FC United.
This Giggs, the spitting image of his more famous brother, was powerless to stop wave after wave of home attacks, as Wimbledon finally added a potency to their play that had previously been missing in pre-season.
The Dons have looked defensively adept throughout their friendly matches, but have lacked the creativity in the final third to really excite their demanding fans.
But the mood at the end of this encounter was one of optimism, a sense of hope engulfing the Fans' Stadium after a display in which their side pummelled the visitors with a near constant stream of attacks, testing FC United keeper Sam Ashton 16 times in total.
Having spent the summer months searching for the one man he hoped would fire his side to promotion, Terry Brown eventually chose Daniel Webb, the striker with Champions League experience.
In his home debut for the Dons, he impressed throughout and gave Brown much cause for satisfaction.
The manager admitted last week that he has no idea of his best front two for the start of the season, but the performances of Webb and strike partner Richard Jolly will have done much to help Brown make his decision.
The win was eventually secured at a canter, but in the opening stages it was FC United who looked the more composed side, pinging the ball around with confidence.
For all their neat, intricate approach play, though, they failed to trouble Andy Little in the early stages.
The Dons came closest in the first 15 minutes,with Webb and Steve Ferguson both bringing saves from Ashton, the visitors' outstanding player.
And the pressure soon told when, on 20 minutes, United captain Dave Chadwick clambered all over Jolly in the box.
Referee Ian Crouch pointed straight to the spot, but Sam Hatton's fiercely-struck effort was saved brilliantly by Ashton as he flung himself to his right.
At the other end Dave Swarbrick did manage to outfox Jake Leberl down the United right, but his shot flashed harmlessly across the face of Little's goal.
That aside,it was all Wimbledon. Hatton's effort from an acute angle was hacked off the line by Rob Nugent before, finally, after 41 minutes, the Dons scored the goal their pressure deserved.
Luke Garrard and Hatton combined well on the right, teeing up Ferguson to deliver an inviting cross for Webb, who flung himself towards the ball and directed it perfectly beyond the despairing Ashton's right hand.
Then, with 30 seconds of stoppage time already played, United's Dale Whitehead aimed a casual pass to Liam Foster, but the alert Tony Finn intercepted and raced through, before sliding the ball under the exposed Ashton.
The second half saw more of the same, though the keeper refused to be beaten.
Perhaps it will worry Brown that his side missed so many chances, but it is more likely he will be delighted by the ease with which his attacking players found themselves in scoring positions.
Webb raced clean through on goal on the hour mark, but he shot straight at the keeper, while Finn's brilliant effort a minute later was superbly tipped onto the post by Ashton, the keeper by now working overtime.
Jolly was the next to benefit from slack United defending after good work from Ferguson to rob Shaun Roscoe,but again Ashton saved his team.
The keeper then had about an eight minute breather before his next heroic stop, a full-length dive to his right to turn a fizzing Hatton 25-yarder round the post.
Eventually, the onslaught drew to a close, though not before Karl Beckford produced a piece of magic to split the United defence once more, threading a pass to Webb, but Ashton sprinted from his line to close down the imposing striker.
If Giggs had been the star name, it was the performances of the Dons players which really stole the show.
Monday, August 06, 2007
Friday, August 03, 2007
FC United ace in injury blow
Source: M.E.N.
FC United will start the season without last season's top scorer Stuart Rudd after he broke his wrist and two fingers.
The man whose 45 goals spearheaded their charge into the UniBond League is expected to be out for up to four weeks after surgery.
FC United will start the season without last season's top scorer Stuart Rudd after he broke his wrist and two fingers.
The man whose 45 goals spearheaded their charge into the UniBond League is expected to be out for up to four weeks after surgery.
Thursday, August 02, 2007
FC United get set for season
Source: The Bolton News
By Liam Chronnell
FC UNITED went down 2-1 to Trafford in a potential dress rehearsal of next month's FA Cup clash.
The breakaway club are due to meet Trafford or Atherton LR in the preliminary round of the famous competition on September 1.
But manager Karl Marginson will not be unduly concerned about the result after fielding a select XI in Tuesday's night's friendly defeat.
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The Gigg Lane outfit, who drew with Kidderminster on Sunday and were in action again last night against Atherton Collieries, continue their pre-season preparations with a trip to AFC Wimbledon on Saturday ahead of the start of the start of the new season on August 18.
By Liam Chronnell
FC UNITED went down 2-1 to Trafford in a potential dress rehearsal of next month's FA Cup clash.
The breakaway club are due to meet Trafford or Atherton LR in the preliminary round of the famous competition on September 1.
But manager Karl Marginson will not be unduly concerned about the result after fielding a select XI in Tuesday's night's friendly defeat.
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The Gigg Lane outfit, who drew with Kidderminster on Sunday and were in action again last night against Atherton Collieries, continue their pre-season preparations with a trip to AFC Wimbledon on Saturday ahead of the start of the start of the new season on August 18.
Young United fans are onto a winner
Source: Tameside Advertiser
REBEL club FC United are offering kids in Tameside the chance to watch the team for free this season.
The local supporters branch has four tickets available for each and every match just waiting to be snapped up.
The club, which was set up by protesting Manchester United fans opposed to the takeover by American businessman Malcolm Glazer, is keen to forge strong links with youngsters and is determined not to see them priced out of watching football.
Successive promotions in their first two seasons will see the club locking horns with Mossley and Curzon Ashton in the league next season. Kind-hearted kit man George Hayden, of Old Road, Ashton, bought two extra junior season tickets to give out free and the club has matched his generous offer.
George, 42, said: "The idea to buy additional season tickets on top of our own renewals and then offer them out to kids across Manchester came from a supporters meeting we held.
"So we now have four and are offering them to kids in the area on a match-by-match basis to whoever wants them.
"The only criteria is that they have to live in Tameside and be under 18.
"We initially have four tickets per match to offer, but if any schools or youth groups are interested it might be possible to get more from the larger pool."
Fellow volunteer Vinny Thompson added: "This is just another example of the work the club is doing with communities across Manchester.
"Here in Tameside the club is looking to extend their work with St Peters Youth, Tameside Youth Prevention Services and Dovestones at Tameside College."
Anyone interested in the offer should log on to www.tamesideisred.co.uk, email George at georgehayden9@aol.com or call Vinny Thompson on 07792 833 086.
REBEL club FC United are offering kids in Tameside the chance to watch the team for free this season.
The local supporters branch has four tickets available for each and every match just waiting to be snapped up.
The club, which was set up by protesting Manchester United fans opposed to the takeover by American businessman Malcolm Glazer, is keen to forge strong links with youngsters and is determined not to see them priced out of watching football.
Successive promotions in their first two seasons will see the club locking horns with Mossley and Curzon Ashton in the league next season. Kind-hearted kit man George Hayden, of Old Road, Ashton, bought two extra junior season tickets to give out free and the club has matched his generous offer.
George, 42, said: "The idea to buy additional season tickets on top of our own renewals and then offer them out to kids across Manchester came from a supporters meeting we held.
"So we now have four and are offering them to kids in the area on a match-by-match basis to whoever wants them.
"The only criteria is that they have to live in Tameside and be under 18.
"We initially have four tickets per match to offer, but if any schools or youth groups are interested it might be possible to get more from the larger pool."
Fellow volunteer Vinny Thompson added: "This is just another example of the work the club is doing with communities across Manchester.
"Here in Tameside the club is looking to extend their work with St Peters Youth, Tameside Youth Prevention Services and Dovestones at Tameside College."
Anyone interested in the offer should log on to www.tamesideisred.co.uk, email George at georgehayden9@aol.com or call Vinny Thompson on 07792 833 086.
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