Stuart Brennan
31/10/2007
PETER Thomson will get his first start for FC United as the Rebels take on Bamber Bridge in the President's Cup at Radcliffe tonight (7.45pm).
The powerful 6ft 3in striker, who used to play for NAC Breda in Holland and has League experience with Luton and Rushden and Diamonds, scored on his debut as a late substitute in the 3-1 win over Ossett Albion on Saturday.
And with last season's top scorer Stuart Rudd still awaiting the results of a scan on his knee injury, Thomson could become a crucial player, even if he faces a battle to dislodge current top scorer Rory Patterson and new boy Aaron Burns from the first-choice team.
"He's got a fantastic touch for a big fellow, his movement is excellent, and he has an eye for goal as we saw when he came on, on Saturday," said manager Karl Marginson, who has signed the Bury-born 29-year-old from Barrow.
"The first words out of his mouth when I spoke to him was that he just wanted to play for this club, and they weren't plastic words. He says he will come alive when he pulls the red shirt on, and we saw that when he scored against Ossett - he grabbed the badge, and thankfully he didn't kiss it!
"He also takes a bit of stopping - Ossett's centre half tried to block his run on Saturday and ended up like Tony Underwood when he got in Jonah Lomu's way."
Thomson is expected to partner Burns tonight. Marginson explained: "Aaron needs games, and Rory is just one booking away from a big suspension after picking up his ninth yellow card on Saturday."
Tonight's game will also see the debut of Colin Bell, who will replace injured Rob Nugent at the heart of defence.
Another FC new boy, midfielder Jamie Baguley, is also set for his first start, alongside brother Chris and Nicky Platt in midfield.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Over 1500 expected at Queensgate
By Staff Copy
ATTENDANCE records for a league game should tumble at Queensgate on Saturday as the FC United of Manchester bandwagon rolls into town.
The Mancunians regularly attract home gates in excess of 2,000, and their fans are treating the game as a ‘weekend trip to the coast’ with several hotels and guest houses already fully booked, and a crowd well in excess of 1,500 is expected at the Lane Rental Queensgate Stadium.
The gates open at 1.30pm, with all three front turnstiles in operation to ease entry into the ground. The game is not all-ticket, but fans are asked to bear in mind the likely attendance figure and arrive in plenty of time at the stadium.
There will be 800 matchday programmes available and these are expected to sell out quickly.
Supporters of both sides should be in for a treat on the pitch as well, with Town eager to avenge the 6-0 drubbing handed out back in August, when Town seemed to freeze on the day in front of 2253 fans, and the division’s top scorer Rory Patterson notched four goals.
But much has changed since that game, although United are still very much in the promotion chasing pack, having beaten second-placed Ossett Albion on Saturday to leapfrog them in the table, Town’s recent record is also impressive, with only one defeat in seven games, and striker Neil Towler is hot on the heels of Patterson with nine goals, making him the third top scorer in the division.
Following the 6-0 defeat back in August, Town manager Ash Berry said: “I thought a number of our lads froze on the day, and their crowd did their job well.
We also had a couple of players out, and our defence then was simply not mobile enough.”
But the gaffer expects a different game this time around, “I believe FC will see a very different side this week, and after recent results, we know we can compete with the best teams in this league and come away with something.”
Town maintained their good run on Saturday with a hard-fought victory over basement side Radcliffe Borough, in a game where the exploits of the previous Wednesday, in which Berry’s young side held Ossett to a draw despite playing 85 minutes with ten men, looked to have caught up with them.
Berry agreed, “We looked a bit off the pace, which was understandable given the Wednesday game, but enough of our key players stepped up, and I thought in the end any one of four or five had a shout for man-of-the-match.
“They had a typical strong defence, were sharp in attack, and looked anything but a bottom of the table side.
“Their skipper had turned down a big-money move to Fleetwood in the UniBond Premier Division during the week, and they had just signed a central defender from Conference North side Vauxhall Motors, so it was important to get the three points as they could start to put a run together,” he said.
Last Updated: 30 October 2007 8:37 AM
ATTENDANCE records for a league game should tumble at Queensgate on Saturday as the FC United of Manchester bandwagon rolls into town.
The Mancunians regularly attract home gates in excess of 2,000, and their fans are treating the game as a ‘weekend trip to the coast’ with several hotels and guest houses already fully booked, and a crowd well in excess of 1,500 is expected at the Lane Rental Queensgate Stadium.
The gates open at 1.30pm, with all three front turnstiles in operation to ease entry into the ground. The game is not all-ticket, but fans are asked to bear in mind the likely attendance figure and arrive in plenty of time at the stadium.
There will be 800 matchday programmes available and these are expected to sell out quickly.
Supporters of both sides should be in for a treat on the pitch as well, with Town eager to avenge the 6-0 drubbing handed out back in August, when Town seemed to freeze on the day in front of 2253 fans, and the division’s top scorer Rory Patterson notched four goals.
But much has changed since that game, although United are still very much in the promotion chasing pack, having beaten second-placed Ossett Albion on Saturday to leapfrog them in the table, Town’s recent record is also impressive, with only one defeat in seven games, and striker Neil Towler is hot on the heels of Patterson with nine goals, making him the third top scorer in the division.
Following the 6-0 defeat back in August, Town manager Ash Berry said: “I thought a number of our lads froze on the day, and their crowd did their job well.
We also had a couple of players out, and our defence then was simply not mobile enough.”
But the gaffer expects a different game this time around, “I believe FC will see a very different side this week, and after recent results, we know we can compete with the best teams in this league and come away with something.”
Town maintained their good run on Saturday with a hard-fought victory over basement side Radcliffe Borough, in a game where the exploits of the previous Wednesday, in which Berry’s young side held Ossett to a draw despite playing 85 minutes with ten men, looked to have caught up with them.
Berry agreed, “We looked a bit off the pace, which was understandable given the Wednesday game, but enough of our key players stepped up, and I thought in the end any one of four or five had a shout for man-of-the-match.
“They had a typical strong defence, were sharp in attack, and looked anything but a bottom of the table side.
“Their skipper had turned down a big-money move to Fleetwood in the UniBond Premier Division during the week, and they had just signed a central defender from Conference North side Vauxhall Motors, so it was important to get the three points as they could start to put a run together,” he said.
Last Updated: 30 October 2007 8:37 AM
Rebels close to home of their own
by stuart brennan
30/10/2007
FC UNITED'S bid to build their own stadium has received a major boost from Manchester City Council.
The Rebels, who hope to have their own home within five years, have been commended for their "vision" by the council, which is now trying to find a site for a 5,000-capacity ground.
FC general manager Andy Walsh and board member Adam Brown recently met leader of the council Sir Richard Leese and town hall officers to discuss ways forward for the club formed by dis- affected Manchester United supporters in 2005.
And Sir Richard told the recent conference of Supporters Direct - the government body set up to give football fans a greater say in the running of their clubs - that, "we were really convinced by the vision that FC United set out."
Important
The importance of building their own ground was laid bare at FC's annual meeting at the weekend, when it was revealed that the club lost £40,000 in the last financial year.
Attendances have dropped since the club's inaugural season, despite two successive promotions and the fact that the Rebels are now riding high in the UniBond League's first division north.
But the club now has a hard-core support of around 2,200, and believe they can only start to fulfil their dream of becoming a community club once they get their own ground after three seasons of sharing with Bury.
The ground-share has been a big drain on resources, to the point that some home cup games - like tomorrow night's President's Cup clash with Bamber Bridge - have been switched to Radcliffe Borough's cheaper stadium.
Outlining plans for a new stadium at the club's meeting, Brown said: "Absolutely essential to what we are trying to do is the community approach of this football club.
Access
"We are renting a ground and have access to it only when there is a match on, which means we don't have a base from which to work and that all the income we get is not being re-invested in the club but is going out to other organisations such as Bury Football Club.
"We have a very clear rationale. Any money that comes into the club needs to be reinvested into the club, and we can't fulfil our ambitions of being a community club if we are constantly nomadic."
As to the £40,000 loss, Walsh explained: "In our first year we had a surplus and decided we would employ a club development officer as we needed to show community funders that we were serious.
"We also wanted to set up reserve and youth teams and all of those things cost us £75,000 which, with grant funding, came down to about £60,000.
"A significant part of our outgoings are matchday operating costs which are far in excess of those faced by other clubs at our level because we play at such a large ground and need to employ 40 staff. But we still expect to hit something like break even for the current year."
30/10/2007
FC UNITED'S bid to build their own stadium has received a major boost from Manchester City Council.
The Rebels, who hope to have their own home within five years, have been commended for their "vision" by the council, which is now trying to find a site for a 5,000-capacity ground.
FC general manager Andy Walsh and board member Adam Brown recently met leader of the council Sir Richard Leese and town hall officers to discuss ways forward for the club formed by dis- affected Manchester United supporters in 2005.
And Sir Richard told the recent conference of Supporters Direct - the government body set up to give football fans a greater say in the running of their clubs - that, "we were really convinced by the vision that FC United set out."
Important
The importance of building their own ground was laid bare at FC's annual meeting at the weekend, when it was revealed that the club lost £40,000 in the last financial year.
Attendances have dropped since the club's inaugural season, despite two successive promotions and the fact that the Rebels are now riding high in the UniBond League's first division north.
But the club now has a hard-core support of around 2,200, and believe they can only start to fulfil their dream of becoming a community club once they get their own ground after three seasons of sharing with Bury.
The ground-share has been a big drain on resources, to the point that some home cup games - like tomorrow night's President's Cup clash with Bamber Bridge - have been switched to Radcliffe Borough's cheaper stadium.
Outlining plans for a new stadium at the club's meeting, Brown said: "Absolutely essential to what we are trying to do is the community approach of this football club.
Access
"We are renting a ground and have access to it only when there is a match on, which means we don't have a base from which to work and that all the income we get is not being re-invested in the club but is going out to other organisations such as Bury Football Club.
"We have a very clear rationale. Any money that comes into the club needs to be reinvested into the club, and we can't fulfil our ambitions of being a community club if we are constantly nomadic."
As to the £40,000 loss, Walsh explained: "In our first year we had a surplus and decided we would employ a club development officer as we needed to show community funders that we were serious.
"We also wanted to set up reserve and youth teams and all of those things cost us £75,000 which, with grant funding, came down to about £60,000.
"A significant part of our outgoings are matchday operating costs which are far in excess of those faced by other clubs at our level because we play at such a large ground and need to employ 40 staff. But we still expect to hit something like break even for the current year."
Optional Wallace @ Starkie's Bar
jljsiRob Allen
30/10/2007
Starkie’s Bar, Gigg Lane, Bury
Saturday 27 October
It’s a stadium show, but not as we know it. In a far corner of the ground at Bury’s Football Club’s Gigg Lane stadium there is a new gig opportunity for Manchester’s bands, to entertain the pre-match hordes attending FC United’s home games.
Prior to a the visit by a team from Osset it was the turn of the oddly monikered Optional Wallace.
One of the most active bands on the unsigned scene, setting up their own live nights in various pubs, their early career has been met with politeness rather than the enthusiasm they may have expected but after the best part of a year under cover, writing, rehearsing and recording they have returned as a new band.
The response to this show is best measured by the fact that the announcement that a clutch of CDs were waiting on a nearby windowsill for collection was met by people suddenly dashing from their seats to grab a copy. So assured was their performance that a shaky PA system sounded like it was custom built for the job.
The lead track on their recent demo, Moving Targets, has found itself snaking into the consciousness of local radio DJs and journalists and it was no less powerful on this occasion.
Vocally capable and definitely able to wield their fuzzed up guitars without any more coaching there are shades of Placebo’s complex darkness spliced with the savvy, bass-led melodies of New Order.
It was either this potent mix or the heavy tater hash on offer from the bar that kept a pre-match football crowd glued to the spot and transfixed for every second they were on stage. For the sake of commending a great gig during daylight hours we’ll save our compliments for the chef and heap praise on Optional Wallace.
30/10/2007
Starkie’s Bar, Gigg Lane, Bury
Saturday 27 October
It’s a stadium show, but not as we know it. In a far corner of the ground at Bury’s Football Club’s Gigg Lane stadium there is a new gig opportunity for Manchester’s bands, to entertain the pre-match hordes attending FC United’s home games.
Prior to a the visit by a team from Osset it was the turn of the oddly monikered Optional Wallace.
One of the most active bands on the unsigned scene, setting up their own live nights in various pubs, their early career has been met with politeness rather than the enthusiasm they may have expected but after the best part of a year under cover, writing, rehearsing and recording they have returned as a new band.
The response to this show is best measured by the fact that the announcement that a clutch of CDs were waiting on a nearby windowsill for collection was met by people suddenly dashing from their seats to grab a copy. So assured was their performance that a shaky PA system sounded like it was custom built for the job.
The lead track on their recent demo, Moving Targets, has found itself snaking into the consciousness of local radio DJs and journalists and it was no less powerful on this occasion.
Vocally capable and definitely able to wield their fuzzed up guitars without any more coaching there are shades of Placebo’s complex darkness spliced with the savvy, bass-led melodies of New Order.
It was either this potent mix or the heavy tater hash on offer from the bar that kept a pre-match football crowd glued to the spot and transfixed for every second they were on stage. For the sake of commending a great gig during daylight hours we’ll save our compliments for the chef and heap praise on Optional Wallace.
Monday, October 29, 2007
FC United 3 Ossett Albion 1
29/10/2007
FC UNITED recovered from a nightmare start to leapfrog Ossett Albion into second place in UniBond division one north.
Shane Kelsey stunned the Rebels as he ghosted in behind their defence to side-foot Ossett in front after just 35 seconds.
And it took a slice of good fortune to get Karl Marginson's men back on terms in the 40th minute when Chris Baguley's blocked shot hit Rory Patterson on the side of the head and went in.
Patterson squeezed in his 15th goal of the season to give FC an advantage they rarely looked like conceding and Peter Thomson added the third.
FC UNITED recovered from a nightmare start to leapfrog Ossett Albion into second place in UniBond division one north.
Shane Kelsey stunned the Rebels as he ghosted in behind their defence to side-foot Ossett in front after just 35 seconds.
And it took a slice of good fortune to get Karl Marginson's men back on terms in the 40th minute when Chris Baguley's blocked shot hit Rory Patterson on the side of the head and went in.
Patterson squeezed in his 15th goal of the season to give FC an advantage they rarely looked like conceding and Peter Thomson added the third.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Burns looks to fire up Rebels
26/10/2007
AARON BURNS, the ex-Manchester United starlet, will be bidding to catapult his new club FC United into second spot on Saturday.
The former Old Trafford reserve released by Cardiff has already notched three goals in two starts for the Rebels. And he is in line to make his home debut for Karl Marginson's side, currently in fourth spot, who play second-placed Ossett Albion.
Marginson said today: "It's a chance to leapfrog Ossett and put pressure on the leaders Curzon Ashton.
"We have hit top form now after a sticky patch and with new signings such as Aaron the team has been reinvigorated."
AARON BURNS, the ex-Manchester United starlet, will be bidding to catapult his new club FC United into second spot on Saturday.
The former Old Trafford reserve released by Cardiff has already notched three goals in two starts for the Rebels. And he is in line to make his home debut for Karl Marginson's side, currently in fourth spot, who play second-placed Ossett Albion.
Marginson said today: "It's a chance to leapfrog Ossett and put pressure on the leaders Curzon Ashton.
"We have hit top form now after a sticky patch and with new signings such as Aaron the team has been reinvigorated."
Thursday, October 25, 2007
High five for FC promotion
25/10/2007
FC UNITED manager Karl Marginson believes that his squad’s new blood will provide the right formula to take the reds to promotion, writes Tony Howard.
He has acquired five new players to strengthen the roster including former Manchester United reserve striker Aaron Burns, ex-Rochdale trainees Colin Bell and Theo Coleman, Altrincham old boy Peter Thompson and winger Jamie Baguley from last season’s North West Counties League rivals Salford City.
The reds may give many of the new faces their first run out during the home game with Ossett Albion on Saturday, October 27, on the back of an impressive 3-2 Manchester Premier Cup win agsint Conference side Droylsden on Tuesday night.
FC beat the cup holders thanks to goals from Cayne Hanley, Burns and Rory Patterson.
Marginson claims that the squad now has what it takes to secure an automatic promotion place and get out of the UniBond north.
"Those who made the trips to Clitheroe and Droylsden will have seen the quality Burns has to offer," Margy said. "He’s got that bit of class.
"He’s been joined by another centre forward in Peter Thomson, who offers us invaluable experience having played all over the place.
"And as a big and strong front man he gives us a bit of something different too.
"Colin Bell has also joined us, much to the amusement of many due to his name.
"He can play in either defence or midfield, which gives us some more options.
"Jamie Baguley wanted to join his brother Chris here at FC and I think he’s going to be a great addition.
"He showed in our games against Salford last season that he is a top player, capable of supplying a great dead ball as those who saw his free kick against us at The Willows will testify.
"Jamie can play on either wing, as can Theo Coleman, who has joined us after being released from Rochdale.
"He’s only 17 but we have already seen flashes of his potential since he joined us and he is an exciting prospect.
"We’ve had some bad luck with injuries to the likes of Stuart Rudd and Dave Chadwick.
"And we are sad to see Steve Spencer having to take a break from football due to a hip problem.
"So we had to bring in new blood and I believe we’ve now got the quality to push on and challenge in those promotion spots."
The game against Ossett at Gigg Lane kicks off at 3pm. Admission is £7.50 for adults, £5 for over-60s and £2 for under-18s.
· FC United’s annual general meeting will take place at MANCAT Openshaw Campus, Ashton Old Road, Openshaw, Manchester, between 11am and 4pm on Sunday, October 28.
FC UNITED manager Karl Marginson believes that his squad’s new blood will provide the right formula to take the reds to promotion, writes Tony Howard.
He has acquired five new players to strengthen the roster including former Manchester United reserve striker Aaron Burns, ex-Rochdale trainees Colin Bell and Theo Coleman, Altrincham old boy Peter Thompson and winger Jamie Baguley from last season’s North West Counties League rivals Salford City.
The reds may give many of the new faces their first run out during the home game with Ossett Albion on Saturday, October 27, on the back of an impressive 3-2 Manchester Premier Cup win agsint Conference side Droylsden on Tuesday night.
FC beat the cup holders thanks to goals from Cayne Hanley, Burns and Rory Patterson.
Marginson claims that the squad now has what it takes to secure an automatic promotion place and get out of the UniBond north.
"Those who made the trips to Clitheroe and Droylsden will have seen the quality Burns has to offer," Margy said. "He’s got that bit of class.
"He’s been joined by another centre forward in Peter Thomson, who offers us invaluable experience having played all over the place.
"And as a big and strong front man he gives us a bit of something different too.
"Colin Bell has also joined us, much to the amusement of many due to his name.
"He can play in either defence or midfield, which gives us some more options.
"Jamie Baguley wanted to join his brother Chris here at FC and I think he’s going to be a great addition.
"He showed in our games against Salford last season that he is a top player, capable of supplying a great dead ball as those who saw his free kick against us at The Willows will testify.
"Jamie can play on either wing, as can Theo Coleman, who has joined us after being released from Rochdale.
"He’s only 17 but we have already seen flashes of his potential since he joined us and he is an exciting prospect.
"We’ve had some bad luck with injuries to the likes of Stuart Rudd and Dave Chadwick.
"And we are sad to see Steve Spencer having to take a break from football due to a hip problem.
"So we had to bring in new blood and I believe we’ve now got the quality to push on and challenge in those promotion spots."
The game against Ossett at Gigg Lane kicks off at 3pm. Admission is £7.50 for adults, £5 for over-60s and £2 for under-18s.
· FC United’s annual general meeting will take place at MANCAT Openshaw Campus, Ashton Old Road, Openshaw, Manchester, between 11am and 4pm on Sunday, October 28.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Rebels hit rich vein of form
By NickJackson
FC United v Ossett Albon FC United go into Saturday's difficult clash against fellow Unibond League North high-flyers Osset Albion buoyed by their 3-2 win at Droylsden of the Conference in the Manchester Premier Cup on Tuesday.
The Rebel Reds were three goals to the good by the time Droylsden could muster a reply late in the game before a penalty conceded by FC, with nearly the last kick of the game made it a flattering scoreline for the hosts.
FC's goals came from Kayne Hanley, Aaron Burns and Rory Patterson and according to assistant manager Phil Power, new signings Jamie Baguley and Peter Thomson, must be wondering how they are going to get into the side.
Former Radcliffe Borough winner Baguley, aged 22, joined his brother Chris at FC this week along with muscular 29-year-old forward Thomson.
Power said: "They must have been quite worried about how they're going to get in, but that's a good thing for the club. It means they may be chomping at the bit on the bench and will perform when they come in."
3:57pm today
24 October 2007
FC United v Ossett Albon FC United go into Saturday's difficult clash against fellow Unibond League North high-flyers Osset Albion buoyed by their 3-2 win at Droylsden of the Conference in the Manchester Premier Cup on Tuesday.
The Rebel Reds were three goals to the good by the time Droylsden could muster a reply late in the game before a penalty conceded by FC, with nearly the last kick of the game made it a flattering scoreline for the hosts.
FC's goals came from Kayne Hanley, Aaron Burns and Rory Patterson and according to assistant manager Phil Power, new signings Jamie Baguley and Peter Thomson, must be wondering how they are going to get into the side.
Former Radcliffe Borough winner Baguley, aged 22, joined his brother Chris at FC this week along with muscular 29-year-old forward Thomson.
Power said: "They must have been quite worried about how they're going to get in, but that's a good thing for the club. It means they may be chomping at the bit on the bench and will perform when they come in."
3:57pm today
24 October 2007
Droylsden 2 FC United 3
24/10/2007
FC UNITED showed no mercy for a makeshift Droylsden side as they dumped the holders out of the Manchester Premier Cup at the Butcher's Arms.
Bloods boss Dave Pace carried out his threat to rest several first-team regulars, including skipper Steve Halford and strike duo Jody Banim and Chris Denham, ahead of Saturday's big FA Cup fourth qualifying-round clash at Corby.
And FC, who play three divisions below Droylsden, seized on that advantage over their struggling Blue Square Premier hosts to record a famous victory.
Cayne Hanley gave the Rebels a head-start when he rose above the Droylsden defence in the 12th minute to nod in Jerome Wright's cross.
And the tie was effectively settled when the visitors struck twice in a minute just before the hour to leave the Bloods trailing 3-0.
Nicky Platt was the architect on each occasion, first sending Aaron Burns clear to score and then starting the move which culminated in Burns squaring for Rory Patterson to add FC's third.
Gavin Salmon pulled one back in the 72nd minute, firing home from Robbie Talbot's cross.
Terry Fearns further reduced the arrears with a 90th-minute penalty, but it was too late.
FC UNITED showed no mercy for a makeshift Droylsden side as they dumped the holders out of the Manchester Premier Cup at the Butcher's Arms.
Bloods boss Dave Pace carried out his threat to rest several first-team regulars, including skipper Steve Halford and strike duo Jody Banim and Chris Denham, ahead of Saturday's big FA Cup fourth qualifying-round clash at Corby.
And FC, who play three divisions below Droylsden, seized on that advantage over their struggling Blue Square Premier hosts to record a famous victory.
Cayne Hanley gave the Rebels a head-start when he rose above the Droylsden defence in the 12th minute to nod in Jerome Wright's cross.
And the tie was effectively settled when the visitors struck twice in a minute just before the hour to leave the Bloods trailing 3-0.
Nicky Platt was the architect on each occasion, first sending Aaron Burns clear to score and then starting the move which culminated in Burns squaring for Rory Patterson to add FC's third.
Gavin Salmon pulled one back in the 72nd minute, firing home from Robbie Talbot's cross.
Terry Fearns further reduced the arrears with a 90th-minute penalty, but it was too late.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Priestley joins United
By Mike Day
Chorley goalkeeper Phil Priestley has spoken of his disappointment at leaving the club – but admits manager Gerry Luczka couldn't pick him.
The 31-year-old has taken up the post of goalkeeping coach at FC United after finding himself on the sidelines following the inspirational form of Peter Collinge.
Priestley, who missed most of last season with a knee injury, had been in good form this campaign until picking up an injury in the first FA Cup clash with Clitheroe.
A back injury then hampered his performance in the 5-3 defeat away at Newcastle Blue Star and Luczka signed Collinge as cover.
The stand-in 'keeper has kept three clean sheets in succession, leaving Priestley out in the cold.
When the position of goalkeeping coach at FC United came up Priestley said it was too good an offer to turn down.
"I need to be involved," he told the Guardian. "Gerry let me have input, even when I wasn't playing last season.
"No disrespect to Chorley but FC United are a massive club. They are looking at setting up (football) schools and I'm looking to the future."
He said three other UniBond clubs have coming knocking in the last week wanting to sign him but he wants to build on his coaching career.
"The knee injury last season was bad," he said. "Things were fine this year and then I picked up an injury against Clitheroe. Peter Collinge came in and he's done fantastic.
"I can't go banging on Gerry's door. This opportunity came up and I've got to look for the future.
"I'm still running my goalkeeping schools in Chorley and I genuinely wish the Magpies all the best."
Last Updated: 18 October 2007 11:27 AM
Chorley goalkeeper Phil Priestley has spoken of his disappointment at leaving the club – but admits manager Gerry Luczka couldn't pick him.
The 31-year-old has taken up the post of goalkeeping coach at FC United after finding himself on the sidelines following the inspirational form of Peter Collinge.
Priestley, who missed most of last season with a knee injury, had been in good form this campaign until picking up an injury in the first FA Cup clash with Clitheroe.
A back injury then hampered his performance in the 5-3 defeat away at Newcastle Blue Star and Luczka signed Collinge as cover.
The stand-in 'keeper has kept three clean sheets in succession, leaving Priestley out in the cold.
When the position of goalkeeping coach at FC United came up Priestley said it was too good an offer to turn down.
"I need to be involved," he told the Guardian. "Gerry let me have input, even when I wasn't playing last season.
"No disrespect to Chorley but FC United are a massive club. They are looking at setting up (football) schools and I'm looking to the future."
He said three other UniBond clubs have coming knocking in the last week wanting to sign him but he wants to build on his coaching career.
"The knee injury last season was bad," he said. "Things were fine this year and then I picked up an injury against Clitheroe. Peter Collinge came in and he's done fantastic.
"I can't go banging on Gerry's door. This opportunity came up and I've got to look for the future.
"I'm still running my goalkeeping schools in Chorley and I genuinely wish the Magpies all the best."
Last Updated: 18 October 2007 11:27 AM
Friday, October 19, 2007
Colin Bell signs for the Reds
Source: Lancashire Evening Post
Colin Bell will shock City fans this weekend, by turning out for United.
But before Manchester City fans start reaching for the valium, the legend won't be turning out for Manchester United. This is the 'other' Colin Bell, set for his FC United debut this week.
The utility player has already sparked a poll among FC fans to have his named changed by deed poll, with Lee Summerbee and Dennis Law among the suggestions.
But Bell says that he's a lifelong United fan.
"I am actually named after Colin Bell. But from his Bury days, not when he was at City," claimed the 24-year-old, who turned out for Carmarthen in the League of Wales last season.
"My mum's familly are United and my dad's are City, but i've been going to Old Trafford since I was seven.
"I will have to put in a few good performances to win this lot over."
Colin Bell will shock City fans this weekend, by turning out for United.
But before Manchester City fans start reaching for the valium, the legend won't be turning out for Manchester United. This is the 'other' Colin Bell, set for his FC United debut this week.
The utility player has already sparked a poll among FC fans to have his named changed by deed poll, with Lee Summerbee and Dennis Law among the suggestions.
But Bell says that he's a lifelong United fan.
"I am actually named after Colin Bell. But from his Bury days, not when he was at City," claimed the 24-year-old, who turned out for Carmarthen in the League of Wales last season.
"My mum's familly are United and my dad's are City, but i've been going to Old Trafford since I was seven.
"I will have to put in a few good performances to win this lot over."
Thursday, October 18, 2007
New man is on fire
Published: 18th October 2007
FC UNITED’S new signing Aaron Burns shone brightly in deepest darkest Lancashire with a debut brace to help sink lowly Clitheroe 3-0 on Tuesday night.
The former Manchester United reserve player took just six minutes to open his account and added another goal in the second half as the reds leapt up to fourth spot in the UniBond First Division North table.
A Rory Patterson penalty completed the rout to give United their second straight league win, banishing the disappointment of their FA Trophy exit the week before at the hands of Bradford Park Avenue.
The 834 brave FC fans bitten by the first blast of winter in the east Lancashire hills on Tuesday night were relieved to see the game completed after the original fixture last month had been postponed due to a floodlight failure.
Had a similar malfunction occurred to this rescheduled game the sparks exuding from Burns’ lightning fast feet would surely have compensated for the loss of one floodlight – or a few bulbs at least.
The 19-year-old was at Cardiff City until a certain Robbie Fowler and his considerable frame nudged him aside.
And due to FA rules he is unable to play for a club at a higher level than the UniBond League until January 2008.
FC fans must be praying for a miracle after this performance and will be hoping the ruling is extended until the end of the season.
Burns was immediately in the action and could have got off the mark within the first couple of minutes but for tidy goalkeeping.
He hit the net soon after following excellent work from Jerome Wright down the unfamiliar right hand side as he rounded the keeper and slid the ball across for Burns to tap in.
United controlled the game and could have scored more but resolute defending from second bottom Clitheroe kept the reds at bay.
Patterson was particularly wasteful as he tried to grab some of the limelight back from Burns with snapshots on the turn that did not trouble the keeper.
Despite the pressure, it was just 1-0 at the break and FC had to wait for Patterson to be hauled down in the area midway through the second half before they could add to their lead.
Patterson stepped up and took the penalty himself, sending the keeper the wrong way.
The scoring was completed with 10 minutes left thanks to the same combination which brought the opener. Wright, who would have been man of the match but for Burns’ impressive debut, got free down the left and sent over a wonderful cross for the new man to side-foot home.
With a bad injury to usual striker Stuart Rudd, who faces missing most if not all the season with knee damage, the United fans will be praying Burns stays fit for the remainder of his time at the club.
Captain Dave Chadwick is another probable long-term absentee with a similar injury but to compensate manager Karl Marginson has brought in defenders Colin Bell, who thankfully is no relation to the former Bury player of the same name, and Adam Turner.
FC have a weekend off due to their 4-1 humbling in the FA Trophy replay at home to Bradford last Wednesday night and their next game is away to Droylsden in the Manchester Premier Cup on Tuesday, October 23, kick-off 7.45pm.
FC UNITED’S new signing Aaron Burns shone brightly in deepest darkest Lancashire with a debut brace to help sink lowly Clitheroe 3-0 on Tuesday night.
The former Manchester United reserve player took just six minutes to open his account and added another goal in the second half as the reds leapt up to fourth spot in the UniBond First Division North table.
A Rory Patterson penalty completed the rout to give United their second straight league win, banishing the disappointment of their FA Trophy exit the week before at the hands of Bradford Park Avenue.
The 834 brave FC fans bitten by the first blast of winter in the east Lancashire hills on Tuesday night were relieved to see the game completed after the original fixture last month had been postponed due to a floodlight failure.
Had a similar malfunction occurred to this rescheduled game the sparks exuding from Burns’ lightning fast feet would surely have compensated for the loss of one floodlight – or a few bulbs at least.
The 19-year-old was at Cardiff City until a certain Robbie Fowler and his considerable frame nudged him aside.
And due to FA rules he is unable to play for a club at a higher level than the UniBond League until January 2008.
FC fans must be praying for a miracle after this performance and will be hoping the ruling is extended until the end of the season.
Burns was immediately in the action and could have got off the mark within the first couple of minutes but for tidy goalkeeping.
He hit the net soon after following excellent work from Jerome Wright down the unfamiliar right hand side as he rounded the keeper and slid the ball across for Burns to tap in.
United controlled the game and could have scored more but resolute defending from second bottom Clitheroe kept the reds at bay.
Patterson was particularly wasteful as he tried to grab some of the limelight back from Burns with snapshots on the turn that did not trouble the keeper.
Despite the pressure, it was just 1-0 at the break and FC had to wait for Patterson to be hauled down in the area midway through the second half before they could add to their lead.
Patterson stepped up and took the penalty himself, sending the keeper the wrong way.
The scoring was completed with 10 minutes left thanks to the same combination which brought the opener. Wright, who would have been man of the match but for Burns’ impressive debut, got free down the left and sent over a wonderful cross for the new man to side-foot home.
With a bad injury to usual striker Stuart Rudd, who faces missing most if not all the season with knee damage, the United fans will be praying Burns stays fit for the remainder of his time at the club.
Captain Dave Chadwick is another probable long-term absentee with a similar injury but to compensate manager Karl Marginson has brought in defenders Colin Bell, who thankfully is no relation to the former Bury player of the same name, and Adam Turner.
FC have a weekend off due to their 4-1 humbling in the FA Trophy replay at home to Bradford last Wednesday night and their next game is away to Droylsden in the Manchester Premier Cup on Tuesday, October 23, kick-off 7.45pm.
FC celebrate Burns' night
Source: The Bolton News
By Liam Chronnell
TWO-GOAL hero Aaron Burns fired his new club up to fourth in the table after enjoying a stunning debut in FC United's 3-0 victory at Clitheroe.
Last season's Manchester United reserves top-scorer struck in each half in the Unibond League Division One North clash on Tuesday night.
Rory Patterson was also on target from the penalty spot as the Rebels completed back-to-back league wins for the first time since August.
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But it is the remarkable arrival of Burns which has caused quite a stir at Gigg Lane.
The 19-year-old striker was released by Sir Alex Ferguson in the summer and joined Championship side Cardiff, only to be edged out by the signings of Robbie Fowler and Jimmy-Floyd Hasselbaink.
But a contractual restriction means Burns cannot play for a club above UniBond League level until the January transfer window, so FC have stepped in to pick him up until then. His arrival has provided a much needed boost to Karl Marginson's side, without a game this weekend, after injuries to key personnel.
Captain Dave Chadwick and prolific hitman Stuart Rudd both look set for lengthy spells on the sidelines after suffering knee ligament damage.
The Reds, who defeated Wakefield 2-1 on Saturday thanks to a Chris Baguley's second-half double, return to action at Droylsden in the Manchester Premier Cup on Tuesday night.
"We will just have to wait for the swelling to go down before we find out how long they will be out for," said Marginson, who is delighted with the impact Burns has made. "We knew Aaron has talent but the thing I've been most pleased about is his attitude and work rate have been first class. He's a great signing."
Marginson has also brought in Colin Bell, a 24-year-old former Rochdale trainee who has also played for Bury and Chester reserves.
By Liam Chronnell
TWO-GOAL hero Aaron Burns fired his new club up to fourth in the table after enjoying a stunning debut in FC United's 3-0 victory at Clitheroe.
Last season's Manchester United reserves top-scorer struck in each half in the Unibond League Division One North clash on Tuesday night.
Rory Patterson was also on target from the penalty spot as the Rebels completed back-to-back league wins for the first time since August.
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But it is the remarkable arrival of Burns which has caused quite a stir at Gigg Lane.
The 19-year-old striker was released by Sir Alex Ferguson in the summer and joined Championship side Cardiff, only to be edged out by the signings of Robbie Fowler and Jimmy-Floyd Hasselbaink.
But a contractual restriction means Burns cannot play for a club above UniBond League level until the January transfer window, so FC have stepped in to pick him up until then. His arrival has provided a much needed boost to Karl Marginson's side, without a game this weekend, after injuries to key personnel.
Captain Dave Chadwick and prolific hitman Stuart Rudd both look set for lengthy spells on the sidelines after suffering knee ligament damage.
The Reds, who defeated Wakefield 2-1 on Saturday thanks to a Chris Baguley's second-half double, return to action at Droylsden in the Manchester Premier Cup on Tuesday night.
"We will just have to wait for the swelling to go down before we find out how long they will be out for," said Marginson, who is delighted with the impact Burns has made. "We knew Aaron has talent but the thing I've been most pleased about is his attitude and work rate have been first class. He's a great signing."
Marginson has also brought in Colin Bell, a 24-year-old former Rochdale trainee who has also played for Bury and Chester reserves.
Priestley joins FC United
By John Newman
Veteran goalkeeper Phil Priestley has left Chorley to take up the post of goalkeeping coach at his former club FC United of Manchester.
Priestley, 31, who missed most of last season with a severe knee problem, was in good form this year until he was hurt in the first FA Cup match against Clitheroe.
A back injury hampered his performance in the 5-3 away defeat by Newcastle Blue Star and manager Gerry Luczka signed Pete Collinge from Clitheroe. Collinge has done well in Priestley's absence, keeping three successive clean sheets.
Priestley said the post with FC United was too good to turn down and wished manager Gerry Luczka and the team all the best.
Shaun Teale signed Priestley from Radcliffe Borough in October 2005 after he had been with FC United and a number of top non-league clubs.
He made a number of Football League appearances for Rochdale in 1998-99.
Phil, known to Chorley fans as Elvis, was the supporters' Player of the Year after only seven months with the club.
Luczka said: "Phil has been great for us and I wish him well. Now that he has recovered from injury he wants to get back in action.
"It was his decision to leave the club. After last season's nightmare experience when we had 15 stand-ins because of Phil's long-term injury, I had to make provision when he was hurt again, and young Pete has done really well.
"Unfortunately, we have room for only one keeper."
9:07am Wednesday 17th October 2007
Veteran goalkeeper Phil Priestley has left Chorley to take up the post of goalkeeping coach at his former club FC United of Manchester.
Priestley, 31, who missed most of last season with a severe knee problem, was in good form this year until he was hurt in the first FA Cup match against Clitheroe.
A back injury hampered his performance in the 5-3 away defeat by Newcastle Blue Star and manager Gerry Luczka signed Pete Collinge from Clitheroe. Collinge has done well in Priestley's absence, keeping three successive clean sheets.
Priestley said the post with FC United was too good to turn down and wished manager Gerry Luczka and the team all the best.
Shaun Teale signed Priestley from Radcliffe Borough in October 2005 after he had been with FC United and a number of top non-league clubs.
He made a number of Football League appearances for Rochdale in 1998-99.
Phil, known to Chorley fans as Elvis, was the supporters' Player of the Year after only seven months with the club.
Luczka said: "Phil has been great for us and I wish him well. Now that he has recovered from injury he wants to get back in action.
"It was his decision to leave the club. After last season's nightmare experience when we had 15 stand-ins because of Phil's long-term injury, I had to make provision when he was hurt again, and young Pete has done really well.
"Unfortunately, we have room for only one keeper."
9:07am Wednesday 17th October 2007
Clitheroe 0 FC United 3
Stuart Brennan
17/10/2007
AARON Burns lit up a chill night in Lancashire with two debut goals which sent FC powering into the play-off positions.
The original game between these two last month was abandoned after a floodlight failure, but this time it was the former Manchester United reserve who provided the electricity.
Burns was top scorer for the Old Trafford second string last season, and he showed the kind of quality which he hopes will land him a place with a Football League club once the transfer window opens in January.
Burns had been frustrated on Saturday when international clearance from the Welsh FA - his registration is held by Cardiff - failed to materialise in time for him to take part in the 2-1 home win over Wakefield.
But it took him just six minutes to steer in a debut goal, as strike partner Rory Patterson's shrewd pass split the Clitheroe defence, and Jerome Wright took the ball around goalkeeper James Mann before squaring for Burns to pounce.
The other FC newcomer Colin Bell had steeled himself for some good-humoured abuse from the travelling fans but plans for his debut were also put on hold when his international clearance from the Welsh FA came through too late.
An FC side depleted by key injuries still proved too strong for struggling Clitheroe, and when top scorer Rory Patterson earned himself a penalty on 54 minutes, he picked himself up and stroked in his 12th of the season. Burns rounded it off in the 67th minute, finishing with aplomb.
17/10/2007
AARON Burns lit up a chill night in Lancashire with two debut goals which sent FC powering into the play-off positions.
The original game between these two last month was abandoned after a floodlight failure, but this time it was the former Manchester United reserve who provided the electricity.
Burns was top scorer for the Old Trafford second string last season, and he showed the kind of quality which he hopes will land him a place with a Football League club once the transfer window opens in January.
Burns had been frustrated on Saturday when international clearance from the Welsh FA - his registration is held by Cardiff - failed to materialise in time for him to take part in the 2-1 home win over Wakefield.
But it took him just six minutes to steer in a debut goal, as strike partner Rory Patterson's shrewd pass split the Clitheroe defence, and Jerome Wright took the ball around goalkeeper James Mann before squaring for Burns to pounce.
The other FC newcomer Colin Bell had steeled himself for some good-humoured abuse from the travelling fans but plans for his debut were also put on hold when his international clearance from the Welsh FA came through too late.
An FC side depleted by key injuries still proved too strong for struggling Clitheroe, and when top scorer Rory Patterson earned himself a penalty on 54 minutes, he picked himself up and stroked in his 12th of the season. Burns rounded it off in the 67th minute, finishing with aplomb.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Clitheroe FC 0, FCUM 3
THERE was no floodlight failure for Clitheroe to answer to on Tuesday night, just a strong, well organised FC United of Manchester and defeat in front of an 800-strong crowd.
The Blues had no solution to the visitors' three goals despite having numerous half chances in the opening 45 minutes and an array of shots go wide of the mark.
In fact Clitheroe struggled to hit the target, even though they had plenty of opportunity around the United box to level before the break thanks to former Rossendale striker Neil Zarac making his debut alongside Gary Jackson.
It proved a tale of two strikers in the end, and it certainly didn't help that FC United were quick out of the blocks thanks to former Manchester United reserves top scorer Aaron Burns also making his debut.
The 19-year-old striker was picked up in the close season by Cardiff City having been released by Alex Ferguson in the summer, but Robbie Fowler and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbank have left him out in the cold.
So FCUM took advantage of FA rules, which dictate he can't play above UniBond League level until the transfer window re-opens, due to contractual restrictions preventing him from moving on to a league club before January.
Clitheroe were left to bare the brunt of this remarkable signing with a goal in each half from the eager striker, either side of a Rory Patterson penalty.
Captain Patterson was equally as impressive for the visitors as he put Burns in for his first strike inside the first 10 minutes.
And after being pulled down by Kieron Fletcher in the second half, he netted from the spot to put United 2-0 up.
Clitheroe went to three at the back as a result, bringing on a third striker in Sam Heap for Adam Koslowski, only to see a mistake let Jerome Wright in down the left wing to craft a cross for Burns to volley home United's third at the near post.
Zarac and Heap saw further chances in the box closed out by the visitors' defence and further shots from distance by Craig Sargeson went over the bar. A goal just wouldn't fall, as even when Will Exton replaced Jackson near the end, it just wasn't Clitheroe's night.
Clitheroe: Mann, J. Osborne, Koslowski (Heap), Fletcher, Clarke, Fisher, Sargeson, P. Osborne, Jackson (Exton), Byrom, Zarac.
Last Updated: 16 October 2007 11:54 PM
The Blues had no solution to the visitors' three goals despite having numerous half chances in the opening 45 minutes and an array of shots go wide of the mark.
In fact Clitheroe struggled to hit the target, even though they had plenty of opportunity around the United box to level before the break thanks to former Rossendale striker Neil Zarac making his debut alongside Gary Jackson.
It proved a tale of two strikers in the end, and it certainly didn't help that FC United were quick out of the blocks thanks to former Manchester United reserves top scorer Aaron Burns also making his debut.
The 19-year-old striker was picked up in the close season by Cardiff City having been released by Alex Ferguson in the summer, but Robbie Fowler and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbank have left him out in the cold.
So FCUM took advantage of FA rules, which dictate he can't play above UniBond League level until the transfer window re-opens, due to contractual restrictions preventing him from moving on to a league club before January.
Clitheroe were left to bare the brunt of this remarkable signing with a goal in each half from the eager striker, either side of a Rory Patterson penalty.
Captain Patterson was equally as impressive for the visitors as he put Burns in for his first strike inside the first 10 minutes.
And after being pulled down by Kieron Fletcher in the second half, he netted from the spot to put United 2-0 up.
Clitheroe went to three at the back as a result, bringing on a third striker in Sam Heap for Adam Koslowski, only to see a mistake let Jerome Wright in down the left wing to craft a cross for Burns to volley home United's third at the near post.
Zarac and Heap saw further chances in the box closed out by the visitors' defence and further shots from distance by Craig Sargeson went over the bar. A goal just wouldn't fall, as even when Will Exton replaced Jackson near the end, it just wasn't Clitheroe's night.
Clitheroe: Mann, J. Osborne, Koslowski (Heap), Fletcher, Clarke, Fisher, Sargeson, P. Osborne, Jackson (Exton), Byrom, Zarac.
Last Updated: 16 October 2007 11:54 PM
Burns night for FC United
By Liam Chronnell
New boy Aaron Burns hit a a double strike to cap a stunning debut for FC United in their 3-0 victory at Clitheroe.
Last season's Manchester United reserves top scorer struck in each half to help the Reds move up to fourth in the Unibond League Division One North table.
Rory Patterson was also on target from the penalty spot as Karl Marginson's side completed back-to-back wins for the first time since August.
Atherton LR's miserable form continued with a 3-0 home defeat to Glossop in the North West Counties Division One encounter.
LR have now leaked in a worrying 14 goals in their last three games. It was goalless at the break, but LR again failed to take their chances and their defence conceded three late goals.
10:52pm Tuesday 16th October 2007
New boy Aaron Burns hit a a double strike to cap a stunning debut for FC United in their 3-0 victory at Clitheroe.
Last season's Manchester United reserves top scorer struck in each half to help the Reds move up to fourth in the Unibond League Division One North table.
Rory Patterson was also on target from the penalty spot as Karl Marginson's side completed back-to-back wins for the first time since August.
Atherton LR's miserable form continued with a 3-0 home defeat to Glossop in the North West Counties Division One encounter.
LR have now leaked in a worrying 14 goals in their last three games. It was goalless at the break, but LR again failed to take their chances and their defence conceded three late goals.
10:52pm Tuesday 16th October 2007
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Rebel Reds swoop for Colin Bell
Stuart Brennan
16/10/2007
FC UNITED'S new signing will face some good-natured stick if he makes his debut at Clitheroe tonight - he is called Colin Bell!
The newcomer is not the 61-year-old City legend, but a 24-year-old former Rochdale trainee who has also played for Bury and Chester reserves, and for TNS and Carmarthen Town in the League of Wales.
The utility player is likely to start on the bench in tonight's rearranged game at Clitheroe, a fixture abandoned last month when the floodlights failed with the score 1-1.
FC are awaiting international clearance for former Rochdale trainee Bell, and are also hanging on for the go-ahead from the Welsh FA to hand former Manchester United reserves top scorer Aaron Burns his debut.
"Colin a is a great communicator, something we have lacked a bit this season, and he can play right back, central defence or central midfield," said FC boss Karl Marginson.
"He did say to me: `I am going to get some stick for my name, aren't I?' And I told him he definitely will! But he's the type of lad who will thrive on it."
The new boy may be needed sooner than Marginson planned, as skipper Dave Chadwick needs a scan on possible knee ligament damage.
16/10/2007
FC UNITED'S new signing will face some good-natured stick if he makes his debut at Clitheroe tonight - he is called Colin Bell!
The newcomer is not the 61-year-old City legend, but a 24-year-old former Rochdale trainee who has also played for Bury and Chester reserves, and for TNS and Carmarthen Town in the League of Wales.
The utility player is likely to start on the bench in tonight's rearranged game at Clitheroe, a fixture abandoned last month when the floodlights failed with the score 1-1.
FC are awaiting international clearance for former Rochdale trainee Bell, and are also hanging on for the go-ahead from the Welsh FA to hand former Manchester United reserves top scorer Aaron Burns his debut.
"Colin a is a great communicator, something we have lacked a bit this season, and he can play right back, central defence or central midfield," said FC boss Karl Marginson.
"He did say to me: `I am going to get some stick for my name, aren't I?' And I told him he definitely will! But he's the type of lad who will thrive on it."
The new boy may be needed sooner than Marginson planned, as skipper Dave Chadwick needs a scan on possible knee ligament damage.
Monday, October 15, 2007
FC United 2 Wakefield 1
15/10/2007
FC UNITED bounced back from their double-quick FA Cup and Trophy exits with two stunning Chris Baguley free-kicks giving them a badly-needed 2-1 UniBond first division north win over visiting Wakefield.
Baguley struck on the hour from 25 yards to give the Rebel Reds the lead, then repeated the trick with 10 minutes left after the Yorkshiremen had rocked their hosts by drawing level.
But FC's victory, which takes them up to seventh, came at a price as skipper Dave Chadwick now faces a spell on the sidelines after being stretchered off.
UNIBOND premier and division one north leaders, Witton Albion and Curzon Ashton, were each held to draws, but Vodkat League pacesetters Salford City beat Winsford 3-1.
FC UNITED bounced back from their double-quick FA Cup and Trophy exits with two stunning Chris Baguley free-kicks giving them a badly-needed 2-1 UniBond first division north win over visiting Wakefield.
Baguley struck on the hour from 25 yards to give the Rebel Reds the lead, then repeated the trick with 10 minutes left after the Yorkshiremen had rocked their hosts by drawing level.
But FC's victory, which takes them up to seventh, came at a price as skipper Dave Chadwick now faces a spell on the sidelines after being stretchered off.
UNIBOND premier and division one north leaders, Witton Albion and Curzon Ashton, were each held to draws, but Vodkat League pacesetters Salford City beat Winsford 3-1.
Friday, October 12, 2007
FC United v Wakefield: Preview
stuart brennan
12/10/2007
AARON Burns has already had a "jaw-dropping" effect on his new FC United team-mates - even before he makes his debut against Wakefield at Gigg Lane tomorrow (3pm).
The Rebels have landed the man, who was United reserves' top scorer last season, until January - when he is expected to be snapped up by a Football League club.
FC have taken advantage of FA rules, which dictate Burns cannot play above UniBond League level until the transfer window re-opens, after a mix-up over his registration, and are hoping he gets international clearance in time to play.
The Northern Moor-born striker, who netted seven times in 18 games for United last term before being released in the summer, spent the close-season playing for Afurelding in Iceland before being picked up by Cardiff.
But the signings of Robbie Fowler and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink left him out in the cold - though the Bluebirds still own his registration.
The 19-year-old said: "Sir Alex said to me in May that with the new signings it might be better for me to build a League career elsewhere, but now, because of the contractual restriction, I can't do that until January."
12/10/2007
AARON Burns has already had a "jaw-dropping" effect on his new FC United team-mates - even before he makes his debut against Wakefield at Gigg Lane tomorrow (3pm).
The Rebels have landed the man, who was United reserves' top scorer last season, until January - when he is expected to be snapped up by a Football League club.
FC have taken advantage of FA rules, which dictate Burns cannot play above UniBond League level until the transfer window re-opens, after a mix-up over his registration, and are hoping he gets international clearance in time to play.
The Northern Moor-born striker, who netted seven times in 18 games for United last term before being released in the summer, spent the close-season playing for Afurelding in Iceland before being picked up by Cardiff.
But the signings of Robbie Fowler and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink left him out in the cold - though the Bluebirds still own his registration.
The 19-year-old said: "Sir Alex said to me in May that with the new signings it might be better for me to build a League career elsewhere, but now, because of the contractual restriction, I can't do that until January."
Rebels sign ex-Reds hotshot
11/10/2007
FC UNITED crashed out of the FA Trophy on Wednesday night - but announced news of a remarkable new signing.
The Rebels suffered a record 4-1 home defeat to Bradford Park Avenue but completed the capture of last season's Manchester United reserve team top scorer Aaron Burns.
The 19-year-old striker was released by Sir Alex Ferguson in the summer and joined Championship side Cardiff, only to be edged out by the signings of Robbie Fowler and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
But a contractual restriction means Burns cannot play for a club above UniBond League level until the January transfer window, so FC have stepped in to pick him up until then.
That was a much-needed boost for FC fans who have this week lost last season's top scorer Stuart Rudd with a knee injury which could keep him out for the season.
They had to suffer again as Park Avenue produced a fine display.
The visitors took the lead at Radcliffe Borough when a defensive mix-up allowed centre forward Paul Gedman in for an easy finish.
As FC pushed for an equaliser they were blitzed on the counter-attack and Liam Flynn, Gedman again and sub Mike Moseley worsened the agony before Cayne Handley rifled in his first FC goal.
FC UNITED crashed out of the FA Trophy on Wednesday night - but announced news of a remarkable new signing.
The Rebels suffered a record 4-1 home defeat to Bradford Park Avenue but completed the capture of last season's Manchester United reserve team top scorer Aaron Burns.
The 19-year-old striker was released by Sir Alex Ferguson in the summer and joined Championship side Cardiff, only to be edged out by the signings of Robbie Fowler and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
But a contractual restriction means Burns cannot play for a club above UniBond League level until the January transfer window, so FC have stepped in to pick him up until then.
That was a much-needed boost for FC fans who have this week lost last season's top scorer Stuart Rudd with a knee injury which could keep him out for the season.
They had to suffer again as Park Avenue produced a fine display.
The visitors took the lead at Radcliffe Borough when a defensive mix-up allowed centre forward Paul Gedman in for an easy finish.
As FC pushed for an equaliser they were blitzed on the counter-attack and Liam Flynn, Gedman again and sub Mike Moseley worsened the agony before Cayne Handley rifled in his first FC goal.
Electric Avenue march on
By Ian Whiting
FC United 1 Park Avenue 4
Bradford Park Avenue eased themselves into the first qualifying-round of the FA Trophy with a preliminary-round replay victory over FC United of Manchester at Radcliffe Borough tonight.
United play their home games at Bury FC's Gigg Lane but the Coca-Cola League Two outfit had a reserve fixture so Bradford booked their meeting with Sheffield at a neutral ground.
Once Avenue had endured a difficult ten-minute opening spell they prospered.
Paul Gedman broke the deadlock in the 13th minute, Liam Flynn added a second in the 25th minute and Gedman hit the side netting as the visitors stormed the home defence.
FC United had more possession in the second half but Avenue scented victory and went for the jugular.
It was all over bar the singing just after the hour mark when a great cross from Flynn was smashed home by Steve Connors.
Substitute Mike Moseley grabbed the fourth in the 64th minute before Tony Hamley scored a late consolation.
9:53pm Wednesday 10th October 2007
FC United 1 Park Avenue 4
Bradford Park Avenue eased themselves into the first qualifying-round of the FA Trophy with a preliminary-round replay victory over FC United of Manchester at Radcliffe Borough tonight.
United play their home games at Bury FC's Gigg Lane but the Coca-Cola League Two outfit had a reserve fixture so Bradford booked their meeting with Sheffield at a neutral ground.
Once Avenue had endured a difficult ten-minute opening spell they prospered.
Paul Gedman broke the deadlock in the 13th minute, Liam Flynn added a second in the 25th minute and Gedman hit the side netting as the visitors stormed the home defence.
FC United had more possession in the second half but Avenue scented victory and went for the jugular.
It was all over bar the singing just after the hour mark when a great cross from Flynn was smashed home by Steve Connors.
Substitute Mike Moseley grabbed the fourth in the 64th minute before Tony Hamley scored a late consolation.
9:53pm Wednesday 10th October 2007
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Avenue want to make most of second chance
Source: Bradford Telegraph & Argus
By Dave Craven
Bradford Park Avenue are desperate to make the most of their second stab at FC United.
Benny Phillips' side face the Manchester outfit in an FA Trophy preliminary round replay tomorrow night.
The Avenue boss insists the knockout competition isn't a priority this season but is keen for his men to quickly regain some momentum after snatching a late equaliser in a poor performance on Saturday.
"It's a game we definitely want to win," Phillips said.
"We know the Trophy isn't top of our list but we're not going just to make the numbers up and we now have another chance to go through.
"We didn't play well on Saturday and they did. It's a simple as that.
"FC United had got beaten the week before and had a rocket up them.
"They played much better and I'll be expecting our lads to do the same tomorrow night."
The clash is being played at Radcliffe Borough's ground as FC United's usual home venue Gigg Lane is not available due to a Bury reserve-team match.
Meanwhile, Avenue full back Darren Hockenhull is out and facing between two and six weeks on the sidelines after cracking a rib on Saturday.
Mike Moseley (calf) is also missing but Andy Barlow should return from illness and young reserves centre half Steve Hollingworth is also set for a place.
Phillips hopes Matt Daly will get a run-out with the reserves against Stalybridge Celtic on Friday night.
Avenue entertain Farsley Celtic in the Alliance League (under-19s) tomorrow night (7.45), and an eagerly-awaited clash is anticipated with Avenue sitting at the top of the league and Farsley also unbeaten in second place.
By Dave Craven
Bradford Park Avenue are desperate to make the most of their second stab at FC United.
Benny Phillips' side face the Manchester outfit in an FA Trophy preliminary round replay tomorrow night.
The Avenue boss insists the knockout competition isn't a priority this season but is keen for his men to quickly regain some momentum after snatching a late equaliser in a poor performance on Saturday.
"It's a game we definitely want to win," Phillips said.
"We know the Trophy isn't top of our list but we're not going just to make the numbers up and we now have another chance to go through.
"We didn't play well on Saturday and they did. It's a simple as that.
"FC United had got beaten the week before and had a rocket up them.
"They played much better and I'll be expecting our lads to do the same tomorrow night."
The clash is being played at Radcliffe Borough's ground as FC United's usual home venue Gigg Lane is not available due to a Bury reserve-team match.
Meanwhile, Avenue full back Darren Hockenhull is out and facing between two and six weeks on the sidelines after cracking a rib on Saturday.
Mike Moseley (calf) is also missing but Andy Barlow should return from illness and young reserves centre half Steve Hollingworth is also set for a place.
Phillips hopes Matt Daly will get a run-out with the reserves against Stalybridge Celtic on Friday night.
Avenue entertain Farsley Celtic in the Alliance League (under-19s) tomorrow night (7.45), and an eagerly-awaited clash is anticipated with Avenue sitting at the top of the league and Farsley also unbeaten in second place.
Monday, October 08, 2007
Bradford Park Avenue 1 FC United 1
8/10/2007
FC United must replay their FA Trophy preliminary round at Radcliffe on Wednesday night after hosts Bradford Park Avenue grabbed a controversial second-half equaliser in a 1-1 draw.
Top marksman Rory Patterson edged the Rebels in front 10 minutes after the break, but Avenue clawed back when striker Paul Gedman seemed to collide with keeper Sam Ashton.
The ball broke free and Gedman finished coolly.
FC boss Karl Marginson said the Bradford goal was a clear foul, but he was buoyed by his side's performance on the back of last Tuesday's woeful 3-1 league defeat at Skelmersdale.
"I said I wanted a 100 per cent improvement and I think I've got it," said Marginson.
Avenue adopted a defensive style from the start, inviting United to attack their goal with ease.
But a double injury blow for FC - striker Stuart Rudd and winger Adam Carden going off hurt - scuppered their forward play and they had to wait until the second half to pose a serious threat to Jon Worsnop's goal.
After being denied with three long-range efforts, Patterson made no mistake with his fourth chance.
FC United must replay their FA Trophy preliminary round at Radcliffe on Wednesday night after hosts Bradford Park Avenue grabbed a controversial second-half equaliser in a 1-1 draw.
Top marksman Rory Patterson edged the Rebels in front 10 minutes after the break, but Avenue clawed back when striker Paul Gedman seemed to collide with keeper Sam Ashton.
The ball broke free and Gedman finished coolly.
FC boss Karl Marginson said the Bradford goal was a clear foul, but he was buoyed by his side's performance on the back of last Tuesday's woeful 3-1 league defeat at Skelmersdale.
"I said I wanted a 100 per cent improvement and I think I've got it," said Marginson.
Avenue adopted a defensive style from the start, inviting United to attack their goal with ease.
But a double injury blow for FC - striker Stuart Rudd and winger Adam Carden going off hurt - scuppered their forward play and they had to wait until the second half to pose a serious threat to Jon Worsnop's goal.
After being denied with three long-range efforts, Patterson made no mistake with his fourth chance.
Sunday, October 07, 2007
United face replay
By Simon Moss.
Saturday, 06 October 2007.
The FA Carlsberg Trophy Preliminary Round
Saturday 6 October,
Winning clubs receive £1,000
Click here for results
FC United of Manchester will have to negotiate a home replay with Bradford Park Avenue to book their place in the First Qualifying Round of The FA Trophy, following Saturday's 1-1 draw in the competition.
Manager Karl Marginson was full of praise for his young charges, but believes the tie should have been sealed at the Horsfall Stadium without the need for a replay.
The FC United boss said: "We played well and created plenty of chances. We worked extremely hard to get ourselves in front, and then the referee goes and makes a mistake.
"Our player was fouled in the build up to their goal. Unfortunately these things happen in football and it's hard to swallow but we played really well, I can't fault the team," he continued.
A crowd of 1310 were kept thoroughly entertained by two evenly matched sides, battling for a mouth-watering tie with Sheffield in the next stage of the competition.
With home advantage in the replay, Marginson believes the FC United fans can help to carry his team far in this year's competition.
"Our fans are fantastic no matter what,” he added. “The sacrifices they have made in leaving the biggest club in the world are massive. We want to do everything we can on the pitch to repay them.
"Anyone who was at the match could see we had the upper hand but that means nothing if you cannot put the ball in the back of the net."
Saturday, 06 October 2007.
The FA Carlsberg Trophy Preliminary Round
Saturday 6 October,
Winning clubs receive £1,000
Click here for results
FC United of Manchester will have to negotiate a home replay with Bradford Park Avenue to book their place in the First Qualifying Round of The FA Trophy, following Saturday's 1-1 draw in the competition.
Manager Karl Marginson was full of praise for his young charges, but believes the tie should have been sealed at the Horsfall Stadium without the need for a replay.
The FC United boss said: "We played well and created plenty of chances. We worked extremely hard to get ourselves in front, and then the referee goes and makes a mistake.
"Our player was fouled in the build up to their goal. Unfortunately these things happen in football and it's hard to swallow but we played really well, I can't fault the team," he continued.
A crowd of 1310 were kept thoroughly entertained by two evenly matched sides, battling for a mouth-watering tie with Sheffield in the next stage of the competition.
With home advantage in the replay, Marginson believes the FC United fans can help to carry his team far in this year's competition.
"Our fans are fantastic no matter what,” he added. “The sacrifices they have made in leaving the biggest club in the world are massive. We want to do everything we can on the pitch to repay them.
"Anyone who was at the match could see we had the upper hand but that means nothing if you cannot put the ball in the back of the net."
Avenue let off the hook
By Mike Crowther
Bradford Park Avenue 1, FC United 1
Avenue showed little of the form which had seen them score 21 goals in their last four matches - but a late equaliser earned them a replay at Gigg Lane on Wednesday.
Rory Patterson had given the visitors a deserved lead after 53 minutes and they came close to increasing it several times.
But Avenue's Paul Gedman equalised with 15 minutes left and only a point-blank save by goalkeeper Sam Ashton from Lincoln Adams prevented the hosts from snatching it.
There was a carnival atmosphere for the arrival of one of the best-supported clubs in non-league football, though the crowd of 1,310 was well below the record one hoped for.
But the dancing girls at half-time had provided more entertainment than the home side managed in the first period.
Their only shot on target came when skipper Steve Connors forced a routine save from Ashton a minute before the break.
United enjoyed the lion's share of possession but their only real chance came when Patterson set up sub Cayne Hanley, whose close-range effort was well saved by John Worsnop after 25 minutes.
It came after Sol Campbell look-a-like Adams had got the wrong side of his man but it was a rare mistake by the centre back, who was one of the few players to shine for Avenues along with goalkeeper John Worsnop.
Adams looked like he would be the fourth player to come off in only 34 minutes after injurying his left shoulder but he soldiered on after treatment.
Simon Carden, after a strong challenge from Connors, and Stuart Rudd, with a pulled muscle, had already been substituted for United, while Avenue full back Darren Hockenhull was replaced by Ali Brown after pulling up.
The first 15 minutes of the second half was all United. Andy Lee cleared off the line from Nicky Platt after the lively Jerome Wright had been left on his own to cross.
Then Patterson latched onto a throughball from Hanley and made it 1-0 after Avenue's Paul Collins had trodden on the ball.
Paul Gedman forced a good block from Ashton at the other end before the new signing from Hyde grabbed an unexpected equaliser.
Good work down the left by the striker saw him cross for Ben Jones, who clattered into Ashton. Gedman rifled the loose ball home despite a valiant block by Platt on the line.
Tom Baker fired home the rebound for good measure but the officials ruled that Ged-man's shot had already gone in.
As Ashton received treatment, the referee removed a hefty-looking stone from the pitch which had been thrown by someone outside the ground.
Adams almost snatched the win with a header from a corner before Worsnop again came to Avenue's rescue with a save from Hanley.
Avenue boss Benny Phillips was mystified why his side failed to sparkle. He said: "We didn't play well and I can't put my finger on it. I don't think it was the occasion because we have players who are used to playing in front of these type of crowds. At least we have the opportunity to put things right on Wednesday."
He added: "You have to keep things in perspective. United are a side who have been together for two seasons, while we have a group of players who have just been thrown together and are still learning to gel."
3:55pm today
Bradford Park Avenue 1, FC United 1
Avenue showed little of the form which had seen them score 21 goals in their last four matches - but a late equaliser earned them a replay at Gigg Lane on Wednesday.
Rory Patterson had given the visitors a deserved lead after 53 minutes and they came close to increasing it several times.
But Avenue's Paul Gedman equalised with 15 minutes left and only a point-blank save by goalkeeper Sam Ashton from Lincoln Adams prevented the hosts from snatching it.
There was a carnival atmosphere for the arrival of one of the best-supported clubs in non-league football, though the crowd of 1,310 was well below the record one hoped for.
But the dancing girls at half-time had provided more entertainment than the home side managed in the first period.
Their only shot on target came when skipper Steve Connors forced a routine save from Ashton a minute before the break.
United enjoyed the lion's share of possession but their only real chance came when Patterson set up sub Cayne Hanley, whose close-range effort was well saved by John Worsnop after 25 minutes.
It came after Sol Campbell look-a-like Adams had got the wrong side of his man but it was a rare mistake by the centre back, who was one of the few players to shine for Avenues along with goalkeeper John Worsnop.
Adams looked like he would be the fourth player to come off in only 34 minutes after injurying his left shoulder but he soldiered on after treatment.
Simon Carden, after a strong challenge from Connors, and Stuart Rudd, with a pulled muscle, had already been substituted for United, while Avenue full back Darren Hockenhull was replaced by Ali Brown after pulling up.
The first 15 minutes of the second half was all United. Andy Lee cleared off the line from Nicky Platt after the lively Jerome Wright had been left on his own to cross.
Then Patterson latched onto a throughball from Hanley and made it 1-0 after Avenue's Paul Collins had trodden on the ball.
Paul Gedman forced a good block from Ashton at the other end before the new signing from Hyde grabbed an unexpected equaliser.
Good work down the left by the striker saw him cross for Ben Jones, who clattered into Ashton. Gedman rifled the loose ball home despite a valiant block by Platt on the line.
Tom Baker fired home the rebound for good measure but the officials ruled that Ged-man's shot had already gone in.
As Ashton received treatment, the referee removed a hefty-looking stone from the pitch which had been thrown by someone outside the ground.
Adams almost snatched the win with a header from a corner before Worsnop again came to Avenue's rescue with a save from Hanley.
Avenue boss Benny Phillips was mystified why his side failed to sparkle. He said: "We didn't play well and I can't put my finger on it. I don't think it was the occasion because we have players who are used to playing in front of these type of crowds. At least we have the opportunity to put things right on Wednesday."
He added: "You have to keep things in perspective. United are a side who have been together for two seasons, while we have a group of players who have just been thrown together and are still learning to gel."
3:55pm today
Friday, October 05, 2007
Centenary challenge set
By Chris Ansell. Thursday, 04 October 2007.
Bradford Park Avenue v FC United of Manchester
FA Carlsberg Trophy Preliminary Round
Saturday 6 October, 3pm
Winning clubs receive £1,000
Click here for fixtures
Bradford Park Avenue are hoping to celebrate their centenary year with a prolonged run in The FA Trophy. First, though, they must see off the challenge posed by FC United of Manchester, a team whose history pales in comparison having been formed just two years ago.
However, the large difference in age is not reflected in league position, as only three places and just as many points separate fourth-placed Bradford from seventh-placed United in the Unibond League Division One North.
United have two games in hand on their Trophy opponents and confidence is high following last weekend's impressive 3-0 win at Chorley.
Meanwhile, Avenue's chairman Dr John Dean has revealed that he is looking forward to the game against their league rivals.
He said: "The FA Trophy is a high profile competition and in our centenary season to play FC United is certainly a special occasion.
"I'm sure it will be a very competitive match and I think fans of both clubs will be really looking forward to the day."
Avenue's Chief Executive Bob Blackburn added: "I think this first game will be an entertaining affair - the league ones may be tighter.
"I have to say that we viewed them as our main challengers this season, so to draw them in the cup as well adds something extra to this game."
Avenue brushed aside Whitby Town 4-0 in the previous round but this is not the only impressive result they have achieved this season.
They currently hold records for the best wins in their league this season - the biggest home win, 9-0 against Rossendale United and the biggest away win, 5-0 at Bridlington Town.
Saturday's tie at the Horsfall Stadium appears as though it will be a much closer affair.
Bradford Park Avenue v FC United of Manchester
FA Carlsberg Trophy Preliminary Round
Saturday 6 October, 3pm
Winning clubs receive £1,000
Click here for fixtures
Bradford Park Avenue are hoping to celebrate their centenary year with a prolonged run in The FA Trophy. First, though, they must see off the challenge posed by FC United of Manchester, a team whose history pales in comparison having been formed just two years ago.
However, the large difference in age is not reflected in league position, as only three places and just as many points separate fourth-placed Bradford from seventh-placed United in the Unibond League Division One North.
United have two games in hand on their Trophy opponents and confidence is high following last weekend's impressive 3-0 win at Chorley.
Meanwhile, Avenue's chairman Dr John Dean has revealed that he is looking forward to the game against their league rivals.
He said: "The FA Trophy is a high profile competition and in our centenary season to play FC United is certainly a special occasion.
"I'm sure it will be a very competitive match and I think fans of both clubs will be really looking forward to the day."
Avenue's Chief Executive Bob Blackburn added: "I think this first game will be an entertaining affair - the league ones may be tighter.
"I have to say that we viewed them as our main challengers this season, so to draw them in the cup as well adds something extra to this game."
Avenue brushed aside Whitby Town 4-0 in the previous round but this is not the only impressive result they have achieved this season.
They currently hold records for the best wins in their league this season - the biggest home win, 9-0 against Rossendale United and the biggest away win, 5-0 at Bridlington Town.
Saturday's tie at the Horsfall Stadium appears as though it will be a much closer affair.
Blackburn's rallying cry to fans
By Mike Crowther
Park Avenue chief executive Bob Blackburn is urging fans to turn up in force for the visit of FC United of Manchester when a record crowd is expected at Horsfall Stadium.
The club is hoping to get near the 3,000 mark for their FA Trophy preliminary tie on Saturday, with the visitors set to bring well over 2,000 fans.
FC have surged up the non-league pryamid since being set up by Manchester United fans unhappy with Malcolm Glazer's take-over at Old Trafford and are notorious for their big following.
But Blackburn is keen for Avenue fans to turn up in their droves to ensure the home team are not out-shouted.
He said: "The ticket sales have been going well but the Manchester side is well in front. I hope our fans will get behind us in numbers, especially after our recent form.
"The ground has been re-graded and the capacity is 4,000 so there will be plenty of room for the Bradford public. I just hope they take up the opportunity to get behind a winning side. That will help us progress in another knockout competition."
Avenue's record gate for a competitive match at Horsfall Stadium is 2,100 when they entertained Bristol City in an FA Cup tie four years ago.
The club's financial director Mark Nelson confirmed that in the region of 500 home fans had snapped up tickets so far.
He said: "We average about 350 so to get 500 is good going but there is room for more. I must stress that the game is all-ticket.
"Spectators can buy tickets at the ground on Saturday morning from 10am and they are available on-line but they will not be allowed to pay at the turnstile before kick off. I would also urge people to get there early."
Boss Benny Phillips - who has signed striker Paul Gedman from Hyde United after the player impressed on loan - is hoping fans show the same backing they did on Monday in the 4-3 defeat at home to Ossett Albion.
Phillips was annoyed Avenue did not continue their winning streak, which had seen them score 18 goals in three games, but said: "The fans really stuck with us when we were 3-1 down and helped us get back to 3-3. We have clicked a bit of late which is why it was so disappointing to lose. It was down to unenforced errors and was a game we should have won."
Looking ahead to Saturday's game, he added: "United have fantastic support but we are at home and we want to make sure we give our fans something to cheer about."
Strikers Mike Moseley (calf) and Ben Jones (hamstring) are doubts for tomorrow but the club have confirmed the signing of keeper Jacob Giles from Newport County. That comes following the appointment of Karl Lenaghan as specialist goalkeeping coach.
3:03pm Thursday 4th October 2007
Park Avenue chief executive Bob Blackburn is urging fans to turn up in force for the visit of FC United of Manchester when a record crowd is expected at Horsfall Stadium.
The club is hoping to get near the 3,000 mark for their FA Trophy preliminary tie on Saturday, with the visitors set to bring well over 2,000 fans.
FC have surged up the non-league pryamid since being set up by Manchester United fans unhappy with Malcolm Glazer's take-over at Old Trafford and are notorious for their big following.
But Blackburn is keen for Avenue fans to turn up in their droves to ensure the home team are not out-shouted.
He said: "The ticket sales have been going well but the Manchester side is well in front. I hope our fans will get behind us in numbers, especially after our recent form.
"The ground has been re-graded and the capacity is 4,000 so there will be plenty of room for the Bradford public. I just hope they take up the opportunity to get behind a winning side. That will help us progress in another knockout competition."
Avenue's record gate for a competitive match at Horsfall Stadium is 2,100 when they entertained Bristol City in an FA Cup tie four years ago.
The club's financial director Mark Nelson confirmed that in the region of 500 home fans had snapped up tickets so far.
He said: "We average about 350 so to get 500 is good going but there is room for more. I must stress that the game is all-ticket.
"Spectators can buy tickets at the ground on Saturday morning from 10am and they are available on-line but they will not be allowed to pay at the turnstile before kick off. I would also urge people to get there early."
Boss Benny Phillips - who has signed striker Paul Gedman from Hyde United after the player impressed on loan - is hoping fans show the same backing they did on Monday in the 4-3 defeat at home to Ossett Albion.
Phillips was annoyed Avenue did not continue their winning streak, which had seen them score 18 goals in three games, but said: "The fans really stuck with us when we were 3-1 down and helped us get back to 3-3. We have clicked a bit of late which is why it was so disappointing to lose. It was down to unenforced errors and was a game we should have won."
Looking ahead to Saturday's game, he added: "United have fantastic support but we are at home and we want to make sure we give our fans something to cheer about."
Strikers Mike Moseley (calf) and Ben Jones (hamstring) are doubts for tomorrow but the club have confirmed the signing of keeper Jacob Giles from Newport County. That comes following the appointment of Karl Lenaghan as specialist goalkeeping coach.
3:03pm Thursday 4th October 2007
Thursday, October 04, 2007
I ribelli dell'Fc United che esultano per Rooney e sognano con Patterson
Source: Il Manifesto (Italy)
Edit by toast: really rough translation here
Sono i tifosi che dopo l'arrivo degli americani al Manchester, hanno rifondato la squadra tra i dilettanti. Anche se i «red devils» continuano a seguirli
Luca Manes
Manchester
Loro la partita con la Roma l'hanno vista al pub perché all'Old Trafford non mettono più piede da due anni. Hanno esultato al gol di Rooney perché «tifosi» lo sono ancora ma «consumatori» no, mai. Loro sono quelli che quando un miliardario americano ha comprato il Manchester United, hanno detto basta e hanno rifondato la squadra dal basso. L'Fc United of Manchester, un club di proprietà dei tifosi. «Una grande esperienza di vita - spiega Julian Spencer, il portavoce - tutta gente della città , appassionati di calcio delusi dalla trasformazione della loro squadra. Certo però che gol Rooney...».
«Blazer out». I muri nei pressi dell'Old Trafford sono pieni di questo invito non proprio amichevole rivolto alla famiglia Blazer che nell'estate del 2005 ha rilevato la quasi totalità delle azioni del Manchester togliendolo dalla borsa. Un'operazione da 830 milioni di sterline anche se tramite arguzie contabili una larga fetta del totale investito è stata accollata allo stesso Manchester United. Per bloccare il tycoon Malcolm Glazer i tifosi le hanno provate tutte, a volte anche superando i limiti imposti dalla legge e dal buon senso. Proprio loro, che già nel 1998 si erano opposti all'acquisto del club da parte di Rupert Murdoch, questa volta si sono dovuti arrendere. Quando fermarono la scalata del fondatore di Sky dalla loro parte avevano le regole di diritto, tanto che la Commissione di Controllo sulla concorrenza stabilì che il magnate australiano non poteva ottenere il controllo di un club di Premier. La motivazione era palese: si sarebbe creato un forte conflitto di interessi con il Murdoch proprietario del network Sky che sarebbe poi finito per negoziare con il Murdoch presidente del Manchester United la vendita dei dritti televisivi della Premier. Vi ricorda qualcosa?
Nella battaglia contro Glazer le chiassose proteste di piazza fecero il paio con il tentativo dei 32mila membri della Shareholders United di entrare in possesso delle azioni sufficienti per bloccare la scalata. Fu tutto inutile. Così qualcuno decise di fare un passo indietro. Anzi sette, quanti sono gli strati della «piramide» su cui si basa il calcio inglese che separano la Premier League dalla misconosciuta Northern Premier - First Division North, campionato in cui milita l'FC United of Manchester, fondato da una quarantina di ex frequentatori dell'Old Trafford. A loro passare dal «teatro dei sogni» al modesto Giggs Lane di Bury, cittadina ormai fagocitata dalla periferia di Manchester e base delle imprese sportive dell'FC United, è sembrata una logica conseguenza del disfacimento del rapporto di osmosi tra la squadra di calcio e la comunità locale. Così hanno messo su un club tutto loro, che dei Red Devils originali ha i colori, il simbolo (quello in auge negli anni settanta) e il nome. Come scritto nel suo manifesto, il nuovo United è «un club gestito in maniera democratica dai suoi membri e accessibile da parte di tutti gli abitanti della comunità di Manchester». La società ha uno statuto simile ad un ente no profit, il suo board viene democraticamente eletto dai 2.500 membri attuali, tende ad incentivare la partecipazione ed il coinvolgimento dei giovani e per far questo predica una politica di prezzi accessibili a tutti. L'avventura degli altri diavoli rossi tra i dilettanti è andata sin qui fin troppo bene. Hanno vinto alla grande i loro primi due campionati, guadagnandosi altrettante meritate promozioni. Nel 2006-2007 nella North West Counties League hanno portato a casa nientemeno che 112 punti, segnando una messe di gol: 157. Due nuovi record di categoria, molto difficili da battere in futuro. La media spettatori è più alta di quella del Bury, che gioca pur sempre nella quarta serie dei professionisti. Al momento, nella 1st Division North della Unibond League, sono settimi: il bomber è un giovane irlandese che di nome fa Rory Patterson, 9 gol in campionato.
Un occhio alle imprese di Rooney, i tifosi dell'Fc United lo danno sempre, come martedì. Allo stadio però no. Con i debiti che si ritrova per colpa dei Glazer, il Manchester quest'anno ha aumentato il prezzo di abbonamenti e biglietti. «I nuovi padroni non hanno scrupoli - conclude Julian - il Manchester spende circa 60 milioni di sterline all'anno per ripagare gli interessi sul debito contratto dai Glazer per impadronirsi del club. Ora va tutto bene ma quanto durerà ?».
Edit by toast: really rough translation here
Sono i tifosi che dopo l'arrivo degli americani al Manchester, hanno rifondato la squadra tra i dilettanti. Anche se i «red devils» continuano a seguirli
Luca Manes
Manchester
Loro la partita con la Roma l'hanno vista al pub perché all'Old Trafford non mettono più piede da due anni. Hanno esultato al gol di Rooney perché «tifosi» lo sono ancora ma «consumatori» no, mai. Loro sono quelli che quando un miliardario americano ha comprato il Manchester United, hanno detto basta e hanno rifondato la squadra dal basso. L'Fc United of Manchester, un club di proprietà dei tifosi. «Una grande esperienza di vita - spiega Julian Spencer, il portavoce - tutta gente della città , appassionati di calcio delusi dalla trasformazione della loro squadra. Certo però che gol Rooney...».
«Blazer out». I muri nei pressi dell'Old Trafford sono pieni di questo invito non proprio amichevole rivolto alla famiglia Blazer che nell'estate del 2005 ha rilevato la quasi totalità delle azioni del Manchester togliendolo dalla borsa. Un'operazione da 830 milioni di sterline anche se tramite arguzie contabili una larga fetta del totale investito è stata accollata allo stesso Manchester United. Per bloccare il tycoon Malcolm Glazer i tifosi le hanno provate tutte, a volte anche superando i limiti imposti dalla legge e dal buon senso. Proprio loro, che già nel 1998 si erano opposti all'acquisto del club da parte di Rupert Murdoch, questa volta si sono dovuti arrendere. Quando fermarono la scalata del fondatore di Sky dalla loro parte avevano le regole di diritto, tanto che la Commissione di Controllo sulla concorrenza stabilì che il magnate australiano non poteva ottenere il controllo di un club di Premier. La motivazione era palese: si sarebbe creato un forte conflitto di interessi con il Murdoch proprietario del network Sky che sarebbe poi finito per negoziare con il Murdoch presidente del Manchester United la vendita dei dritti televisivi della Premier. Vi ricorda qualcosa?
Nella battaglia contro Glazer le chiassose proteste di piazza fecero il paio con il tentativo dei 32mila membri della Shareholders United di entrare in possesso delle azioni sufficienti per bloccare la scalata. Fu tutto inutile. Così qualcuno decise di fare un passo indietro. Anzi sette, quanti sono gli strati della «piramide» su cui si basa il calcio inglese che separano la Premier League dalla misconosciuta Northern Premier - First Division North, campionato in cui milita l'FC United of Manchester, fondato da una quarantina di ex frequentatori dell'Old Trafford. A loro passare dal «teatro dei sogni» al modesto Giggs Lane di Bury, cittadina ormai fagocitata dalla periferia di Manchester e base delle imprese sportive dell'FC United, è sembrata una logica conseguenza del disfacimento del rapporto di osmosi tra la squadra di calcio e la comunità locale. Così hanno messo su un club tutto loro, che dei Red Devils originali ha i colori, il simbolo (quello in auge negli anni settanta) e il nome. Come scritto nel suo manifesto, il nuovo United è «un club gestito in maniera democratica dai suoi membri e accessibile da parte di tutti gli abitanti della comunità di Manchester». La società ha uno statuto simile ad un ente no profit, il suo board viene democraticamente eletto dai 2.500 membri attuali, tende ad incentivare la partecipazione ed il coinvolgimento dei giovani e per far questo predica una politica di prezzi accessibili a tutti. L'avventura degli altri diavoli rossi tra i dilettanti è andata sin qui fin troppo bene. Hanno vinto alla grande i loro primi due campionati, guadagnandosi altrettante meritate promozioni. Nel 2006-2007 nella North West Counties League hanno portato a casa nientemeno che 112 punti, segnando una messe di gol: 157. Due nuovi record di categoria, molto difficili da battere in futuro. La media spettatori è più alta di quella del Bury, che gioca pur sempre nella quarta serie dei professionisti. Al momento, nella 1st Division North della Unibond League, sono settimi: il bomber è un giovane irlandese che di nome fa Rory Patterson, 9 gol in campionato.
Un occhio alle imprese di Rooney, i tifosi dell'Fc United lo danno sempre, come martedì. Allo stadio però no. Con i debiti che si ritrova per colpa dei Glazer, il Manchester quest'anno ha aumentato il prezzo di abbonamenti e biglietti. «I nuovi padroni non hanno scrupoli - conclude Julian - il Manchester spende circa 60 milioni di sterline all'anno per ripagare gli interessi sul debito contratto dai Glazer per impadronirsi del club. Ora va tutto bene ma quanto durerà ?».
FC United take a wrong turn at roundabout town
Published: 4th October 2007
FC UNITED had the worst possible preparation for their FA Trophy debut this Saturday as they suffered a midweek defeat at Skelmersdale.
The reds were looking to the ’Evans in dismay as Skem’s Tony scored a cracking hat-trick to condemn them to a 3-1 loss.
FC entered the land of roundabouts fresh from handing Chorley a 3-0 drubbing on Saturday thanks to two goals from Rory Patterson and one from Stuart Rudd.
But that form disappeared up the hard shoulder on Tuesday night as United crashed to a determined rearguard action from the home side.
Skem accelerated into the lead after just five minutes after Dave Chadwick gave away a dubious free kick on the edge of the box. United failed to clear the ball and Evans indicated to go one way before shimmying past Chadwick on the blind side and smashing home into the top corner.
But it was not long before FC revved up and equalised as their own flashy model Patterson scored an outrageous volley on the turn from 35 yards out.
As the match developed the referee constantly congratulated the Skem players in the same vein as a PE teacher does to his ‘lads’ when officiating a game involving his own school.
He kept shouting ‘well done!’ but he was the only person inside the whitewash who did not deserve that compliment himself as he had a shocker.
Meanwhile, Skelmersdale’s identity crisis came to the fore as some of their fans began singing Everton songs in a Wigan accent.
This seemed to spur on FC as they pushed for an equaliser. Rudd came closest with a header which was cleared off the line in the last minute.
As United pushed, Skem duly broke and FC keeper Sam Ashton committed his mandatory suicidal dash from the goalline to give Evans the chance to seal his hat-trick with a finish akin to Mark Hughes’ at Rotterdam in 1991 – only nowhere near as good.
Skem deserved the three points and FC will need to improve if they are to motor past Bradford Park Avenue in the FA Trophy on Saturday, October 6. The game at the Horsfall Stadium kicks off at 3pm.
Tony Howard
FC UNITED had the worst possible preparation for their FA Trophy debut this Saturday as they suffered a midweek defeat at Skelmersdale.
The reds were looking to the ’Evans in dismay as Skem’s Tony scored a cracking hat-trick to condemn them to a 3-1 loss.
FC entered the land of roundabouts fresh from handing Chorley a 3-0 drubbing on Saturday thanks to two goals from Rory Patterson and one from Stuart Rudd.
But that form disappeared up the hard shoulder on Tuesday night as United crashed to a determined rearguard action from the home side.
Skem accelerated into the lead after just five minutes after Dave Chadwick gave away a dubious free kick on the edge of the box. United failed to clear the ball and Evans indicated to go one way before shimmying past Chadwick on the blind side and smashing home into the top corner.
But it was not long before FC revved up and equalised as their own flashy model Patterson scored an outrageous volley on the turn from 35 yards out.
As the match developed the referee constantly congratulated the Skem players in the same vein as a PE teacher does to his ‘lads’ when officiating a game involving his own school.
He kept shouting ‘well done!’ but he was the only person inside the whitewash who did not deserve that compliment himself as he had a shocker.
Meanwhile, Skelmersdale’s identity crisis came to the fore as some of their fans began singing Everton songs in a Wigan accent.
This seemed to spur on FC as they pushed for an equaliser. Rudd came closest with a header which was cleared off the line in the last minute.
As United pushed, Skem duly broke and FC keeper Sam Ashton committed his mandatory suicidal dash from the goalline to give Evans the chance to seal his hat-trick with a finish akin to Mark Hughes’ at Rotterdam in 1991 – only nowhere near as good.
Skem deserved the three points and FC will need to improve if they are to motor past Bradford Park Avenue in the FA Trophy on Saturday, October 6. The game at the Horsfall Stadium kicks off at 3pm.
Tony Howard
Karl's Reds rage
By Liam Chronnell
KARL Marginson is demanding a vast improvement when one of the newest clubs clash with one of the oldest in FC United's inaugural FA Trophy campaign.
The Rebels travel to Bradford Park Avenue in the preliminary round tie after a woeful 3-1 defeat at Skelmersdale United on Tuesday night.
Hat-trick man Tony Evans punished three defensive lapses to heap misery on the Reds, whose one positive was Rory Patterson's 10th goal of the season. Now United must put their indifferent league form behind them as they take on UniBond Division One North rivals Bradford, a club dating back to 1880.
"It was abysmal," said Marginson. "We need a 100 per cent improvement."
A home tie with the world's oldest club, Sheffield FC, awaits in the next round.
Patterson (2) and Stuart Rudd were on target in Saturday's 3-0 win at Chorley.
10/4/2007
9:01am today
KARL Marginson is demanding a vast improvement when one of the newest clubs clash with one of the oldest in FC United's inaugural FA Trophy campaign.
The Rebels travel to Bradford Park Avenue in the preliminary round tie after a woeful 3-1 defeat at Skelmersdale United on Tuesday night.
Hat-trick man Tony Evans punished three defensive lapses to heap misery on the Reds, whose one positive was Rory Patterson's 10th goal of the season. Now United must put their indifferent league form behind them as they take on UniBond Division One North rivals Bradford, a club dating back to 1880.
"It was abysmal," said Marginson. "We need a 100 per cent improvement."
A home tie with the world's oldest club, Sheffield FC, awaits in the next round.
Patterson (2) and Stuart Rudd were on target in Saturday's 3-0 win at Chorley.
10/4/2007
9:01am today
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Police defend United tactics
Police in Chorley have defended their tactics during Saturday's match against FC United of Manchester.
Some FC United supporters contacted the Guardian to complain about the 'heavy-handed' response to their request to watch the second half of the match from the Pilling Lane end at Chorley Nissan Victory Park.
For the first 10 minutes of the second half, visiting fans had to watch the game from the corner of the ground, rather than from behind the goal, and were flanked by a line of police and stewards.
Eventually the police relented and the game - which was attended by a bumper crowd of 1,700 - passed off without major incident.
One FC United fan said: "It happens a lot where FC United is concerned because we bring quite a big following.
"We've been to Victory Park twice before and there's never been any trouble, even through the crowds were bigger than the one on Saturday."
Insp Kevin Otter, of Lancashire Constabulary, said: "The policing operation for the football match went according to plan, no arrests were made and after safety issues were addressed, police accommodated an unusual request by fans to move to the opposite end of the ground for the second half of the match."
Insp Ian Roberts, of Chorley police, who was on duty on match day, added: "There was no trouble and there were around 1,700 high spirited fans and many of those took the opportunity to have a drink in the town centre after the match without incident."
Last Updated: 02 October 2007 4:46 PM
Some FC United supporters contacted the Guardian to complain about the 'heavy-handed' response to their request to watch the second half of the match from the Pilling Lane end at Chorley Nissan Victory Park.
For the first 10 minutes of the second half, visiting fans had to watch the game from the corner of the ground, rather than from behind the goal, and were flanked by a line of police and stewards.
Eventually the police relented and the game - which was attended by a bumper crowd of 1,700 - passed off without major incident.
One FC United fan said: "It happens a lot where FC United is concerned because we bring quite a big following.
"We've been to Victory Park twice before and there's never been any trouble, even through the crowds were bigger than the one on Saturday."
Insp Kevin Otter, of Lancashire Constabulary, said: "The policing operation for the football match went according to plan, no arrests were made and after safety issues were addressed, police accommodated an unusual request by fans to move to the opposite end of the ground for the second half of the match."
Insp Ian Roberts, of Chorley police, who was on duty on match day, added: "There was no trouble and there were around 1,700 high spirited fans and many of those took the opportunity to have a drink in the town centre after the match without incident."
Last Updated: 02 October 2007 4:46 PM
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Rebels stunned by Mersey hit man
Source: Bury Times
By Liam Chronnell
FC United slumped to defeat after Tony Evans struck a superb hat-trick for Skelmersdale United in the Unibond League Division One North.
Rory Patterson's 12th minute equaliser cancelled out the Skelmersdale striker's sixth minute opener. But the Merseyside hit man struck twice more after the break to condemn FC to defeat.
By Liam Chronnell
FC United slumped to defeat after Tony Evans struck a superb hat-trick for Skelmersdale United in the Unibond League Division One North.
Rory Patterson's 12th minute equaliser cancelled out the Skelmersdale striker's sixth minute opener. But the Merseyside hit man struck twice more after the break to condemn FC to defeat.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Chorley 0 FC United 3
tony glennon 1/10/2007
STRIKER Rory Patterson scored a brace as FC United cantered to an easy 3-0 win away at Chorley.
The league's top scorer stole the show in front of 1,736 fans at Victory Park with another fine performance to help take the rebels up to seventh place in the UniBond Division One North.
His strike partner Stuart Rudd opened the scoring on 13 minutes with a tap-in, before Patterson got his first 20 minutes later after a brisk counter attack involving new signing Adam Carden, who played the decisive pass.
Patterson rounded things off after an hour with his ninth of the season from a Jerome Wright cross.
STRIKER Rory Patterson scored a brace as FC United cantered to an easy 3-0 win away at Chorley.
The league's top scorer stole the show in front of 1,736 fans at Victory Park with another fine performance to help take the rebels up to seventh place in the UniBond Division One North.
His strike partner Stuart Rudd opened the scoring on 13 minutes with a tap-in, before Patterson got his first 20 minutes later after a brisk counter attack involving new signing Adam Carden, who played the decisive pass.
Patterson rounded things off after an hour with his ninth of the season from a Jerome Wright cross.
Chorley 0 FC United 3
CHORLEY were given a chasing by a very impressive FC United team who were full value for this clear-cut victory.
Home keeper Peter Collinge distinguished himself with several smart saves, but his opposite number had relatively little serious work to do.
The home side strove in vain to get back into the match once United had taken an early lead on 13 minutes, Stuart Rudd accepting a simple chance in front of goal after a United shot had been charged down.
Chorley's best effort, from Lee Shillito at short range, was well saved by Sam Ashton and United immediately raced away for Rory Patterson to complete a flowing move with a neat second goal on 38 minutes.
Chorley enjoyed a brief spell of pressure after the break and Dave German fired just over after smart approach work, but the irrepressible Patterson sealed United's victory on the hour, gliding home Shaun Roscoe's inviting pull-back from the by-line.
10:38am today
Home keeper Peter Collinge distinguished himself with several smart saves, but his opposite number had relatively little serious work to do.
The home side strove in vain to get back into the match once United had taken an early lead on 13 minutes, Stuart Rudd accepting a simple chance in front of goal after a United shot had been charged down.
Chorley's best effort, from Lee Shillito at short range, was well saved by Sam Ashton and United immediately raced away for Rory Patterson to complete a flowing move with a neat second goal on 38 minutes.
Chorley enjoyed a brief spell of pressure after the break and Dave German fired just over after smart approach work, but the irrepressible Patterson sealed United's victory on the hour, gliding home Shaun Roscoe's inviting pull-back from the by-line.
10:38am today
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