But there are signs of resistance. Not least from Premier League fans who've either switched to lower league teams or started their own "authentic" and affordable alternatives.
At every game the fans of FC United of Manchester stand and sing (to the tune of the Sex Pistols Anarchy in the UK): "I know what I want and I know how to get it, I wanna destroy, Glazer and Sky". It's probably the most stirring, moving and exciting sight in modern sports. Perhaps Red Bull should sponsor it. Maybe they already do.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
To sponsorship hell in a homemade go-kart
Edited from The Guardian
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Fußballer sind vereint im Kampf gegen den Rassismus
Source: Oberhessische Presse
Marburg. Mit einer besonderen Aktion wenden sich zwei Marburger Fußballvereine und der englische Club FC United of Manchester gegen rassistische Tendenzen in Europa.
von Bodo Ganswindt
Am 6. Juni wird es in Marburg eine Demonstration auf dem Blochmannplatz vor der Mensa geben, an der Fußballer und ihre Freunde gemeinsam mit Bannern und Transparenten zum Stadion des VfB Marburg in der Gisselberger Straße laufen, um auf diese Weise als Teil eines europäischen Netzwerkes zu bekunden, dass sie die „Krankheit“ Rassismus bekämpfen. Die Aktion „Fußball gegen Rassismus in Europa“ versteht die populärste aller Sportarten als Medium, dem Rassismus auf den Sportfeldern vorzubeugen beziehungsweise ihn zu bekämpfen.
Die Initiative zu dieser Aktion gab Dr. Kurt Bunke, der als Mitglied des Arbeitskreises Integration in Marburg, die Idee aus England mit nach Deutschland brachte. In Manchester nämlich lebt und arbeitet sein Sohn. „Dort habe ich den Peoples United Day miterlebt und war davon sehr angetan“, sagt er. Entsprechendes Informationsmaterial habe er dem Runden Tisch in Marburg vorgelegt.
Dr. Bunke fand alsbald in der Stadt, dem VfB Marburg und den Ballsportfreunden Richtsberg Partner, die jene Aktion auch in Marburg öffentlich machen wollen. Überdies hat sich der Verein FC United of Manchester bereit erklärt, seine Solidarität in Form der Teilnahme an der Demonstration sowie eines Freundschaftsspieles gegen eine kombinierte Mannschaft des VfB und der Ballsportfreunde zu bekunden. Alle Beteiligten rufen dazu auf, Diskriminierung und Rassismus im Sport sowie generell eine Absage zu erteilen.
Der englische Verein ist nicht zu verwechseln mit Manchester United, jenem milliardenschweren börsennotierten Klub. Vielmehr ist der FC United of Manchester, der inzwischen 3.500 Mitglieder hat, im Jahr 2005 gegründet worden, als zahlreiche Fans ein Zeichen gegen die fortschreitende Kommerzialisierung des Fußballs in ihrer Stadt setzen wollten. Sportlich befindet sich die Fußballmannschaft in der englischen Mittelklasse, Es gibt sowohl sieben Ligen unter ihnen als auch darüber. Der Klub hat demokratische Strukturen, fördert Jugendliche und pflegt den Kontakt zur Lokalbevölkerung.
Die Delegation aus Manchester wird am 5. Juni in Marburg eintreffen. Am nächsten Tag stehen die Demonstration, das Fußballspiel sowie eine Fete auf dem Gelände des VfB auf dem Programm.
„Der Fußball hat eine besondere Verantwortung, wenn es um den Gedanken der Integration geht“, betont VfB-Chef Dietrich Möller. Er verweist auf den Partner BSF Richtsberg, in dem viele Menschen mit Migrationshintergrund eine sinnvolle Freizeitbeschäftigung gefunden haben. „Wir passen gut zusammen“, sagt Möller, der darauf hinweist, dass die BSF bald der Nachbar des VfB Marburg sein werden.
Oberbürgermeister Egon Vaupel weist auf den hohen Integrationsfaktor des Sports und den des Fußballs insbesondere hin. „Menschen unterschiedlicher Hautfarben, Kulturkreise und Religionen spielen in freundschaftlicher Form friedlich miteinander – das muss man nutzen, um gegen Rassismus Flagge zu zeigen.“
Das Projekt und der Aufruf zur Teilnahme an der Aktion wird unterstützt vom Staatlichen Schulamt, vom Kinder- und Jugendparlament Marburgs, von der Jüdischen Gemeinde, dem Islamischen Kulturverein Hadara, dem evangelischen Kirchenkreis Marburg-Stadt, der Evangelischen Jugend Marburg, dem DGB, der GEW, dem AStA sowie dem Arbeitkreis Marburger Wissenschaftler für Friedens- und Abrüstungsforschung.
Automatic translation can be found at http://tinyurl.com/6kyafk
Marburg. Mit einer besonderen Aktion wenden sich zwei Marburger Fußballvereine und der englische Club FC United of Manchester gegen rassistische Tendenzen in Europa.
(Text below photograph)
Oberbürgermeister Egon Vaupel (von links) mit Dr. Kurt Bunke, dem VfB-Marburg-Chef Dietrich Möller und dem Vorsitzenden der BSF Richtsberg, Erich Moch, mit dem Plakat, über das zur Teilnahme an der Aktion „Fußball gegen Rassismus“ aufruft. Foto: Bodo Ganswindt
von Bodo Ganswindt
Am 6. Juni wird es in Marburg eine Demonstration auf dem Blochmannplatz vor der Mensa geben, an der Fußballer und ihre Freunde gemeinsam mit Bannern und Transparenten zum Stadion des VfB Marburg in der Gisselberger Straße laufen, um auf diese Weise als Teil eines europäischen Netzwerkes zu bekunden, dass sie die „Krankheit“ Rassismus bekämpfen. Die Aktion „Fußball gegen Rassismus in Europa“ versteht die populärste aller Sportarten als Medium, dem Rassismus auf den Sportfeldern vorzubeugen beziehungsweise ihn zu bekämpfen.
Die Initiative zu dieser Aktion gab Dr. Kurt Bunke, der als Mitglied des Arbeitskreises Integration in Marburg, die Idee aus England mit nach Deutschland brachte. In Manchester nämlich lebt und arbeitet sein Sohn. „Dort habe ich den Peoples United Day miterlebt und war davon sehr angetan“, sagt er. Entsprechendes Informationsmaterial habe er dem Runden Tisch in Marburg vorgelegt.
Dr. Bunke fand alsbald in der Stadt, dem VfB Marburg und den Ballsportfreunden Richtsberg Partner, die jene Aktion auch in Marburg öffentlich machen wollen. Überdies hat sich der Verein FC United of Manchester bereit erklärt, seine Solidarität in Form der Teilnahme an der Demonstration sowie eines Freundschaftsspieles gegen eine kombinierte Mannschaft des VfB und der Ballsportfreunde zu bekunden. Alle Beteiligten rufen dazu auf, Diskriminierung und Rassismus im Sport sowie generell eine Absage zu erteilen.
Der englische Verein ist nicht zu verwechseln mit Manchester United, jenem milliardenschweren börsennotierten Klub. Vielmehr ist der FC United of Manchester, der inzwischen 3.500 Mitglieder hat, im Jahr 2005 gegründet worden, als zahlreiche Fans ein Zeichen gegen die fortschreitende Kommerzialisierung des Fußballs in ihrer Stadt setzen wollten. Sportlich befindet sich die Fußballmannschaft in der englischen Mittelklasse, Es gibt sowohl sieben Ligen unter ihnen als auch darüber. Der Klub hat demokratische Strukturen, fördert Jugendliche und pflegt den Kontakt zur Lokalbevölkerung.
Die Delegation aus Manchester wird am 5. Juni in Marburg eintreffen. Am nächsten Tag stehen die Demonstration, das Fußballspiel sowie eine Fete auf dem Gelände des VfB auf dem Programm.
„Der Fußball hat eine besondere Verantwortung, wenn es um den Gedanken der Integration geht“, betont VfB-Chef Dietrich Möller. Er verweist auf den Partner BSF Richtsberg, in dem viele Menschen mit Migrationshintergrund eine sinnvolle Freizeitbeschäftigung gefunden haben. „Wir passen gut zusammen“, sagt Möller, der darauf hinweist, dass die BSF bald der Nachbar des VfB Marburg sein werden.
Oberbürgermeister Egon Vaupel weist auf den hohen Integrationsfaktor des Sports und den des Fußballs insbesondere hin. „Menschen unterschiedlicher Hautfarben, Kulturkreise und Religionen spielen in freundschaftlicher Form friedlich miteinander – das muss man nutzen, um gegen Rassismus Flagge zu zeigen.“
Das Projekt und der Aufruf zur Teilnahme an der Aktion wird unterstützt vom Staatlichen Schulamt, vom Kinder- und Jugendparlament Marburgs, von der Jüdischen Gemeinde, dem Islamischen Kulturverein Hadara, dem evangelischen Kirchenkreis Marburg-Stadt, der Evangelischen Jugend Marburg, dem DGB, der GEW, dem AStA sowie dem Arbeitkreis Marburger Wissenschaftler für Friedens- und Abrüstungsforschung.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Marginson Eager For Next Step
The Big Interview
Karl Marginson (FC United Manager) by Craig Chisnall
Sunday, May 11, 2008
PRINCIPLES can be expensive in sport.
They probably cost Eric Liddell the 100m title at the 1924 Olympics while devout Christian Jonathan Edwards withdrew from the 1991 World Championships when his triple jump final was scheduled for a Sunday.
So what price strongly-held principles for the fans of FC United?
The supporters who formed their breakaway club to restore footballing traditions of the past – Saturday 3pm kick-offs among them – might soon find that success comes at a price.
When FC United’s fixture against Curzon Ashton this season was moved to accommodate UniBond TV there was uproar.
The fans turned their backs on the meddlesome broadcasters and went to watch their reserves instead.
Now, just two promotions from the Blue Square Premier – and the prospect of games being staged to suit broadcasters once more – reality of modern day sport could soon bite again.
Manager Karl Marginson bright but knows some tough decisions might need to be made by his hard-core supporters following the club’s third successive promotion to the UniBond Premier League.
“Without a doubt we can become a Football League club but there are big bridges to be crossed,” said Marginson.
“There are going to be issues with the fans but they will be the ones who decide how far we want to go.
“You only have to look at the backlash of the fans when the game was moved for UniBond TV.
With the right decisions in place there will be a compromise. The TV companies do bring in money at this level but we’ve got fans who travel in large numbers and the attraction of the club has been football at traditional times.
“They aren’t going to want to travel to Weymouth on a Sunday night just because our match is on the TV. Nobody is blind to the issues and these things are going to come up but the beauty of the club is that they will be voted on.
“It’s all in the future and it probably will be a nightmare but I will have to have a look at it at some point.
“I’m ambitious and I want to realise my ambitions with FC United – I live and breathe this club.”
Marginson does just that – as well as being boss of the first team he works in the club’s community department. And it’s those links with the community that have made the club a stunning success. The club’s home gates have been consistently higher than landlords Bury’s and the away travel has had many cashstrapped clubs rubbing their hands when they come to town.
Now UniBond Premier chairmen will be seeing pound signs – but it’s a big step-up for Marginson’s men.
But Marginson reveals he has learned a lot in the last 12 months to take into Step 3.
“I’ve been planning for next season for a couple of months and the main thing we need to have is more strength in depth,” Marginson added.
“We lost our leading goalscorer in Stuart Rudd and my captain Dave Chadwick for the majority of the season and it was hard to replace them.
“We were asking young lads to do jobs that were a little bit too much for them and we can’t afford to do that next season.
“We’re going to restructure a few things. I’m going to have a bigger first team squad rather than the reserves and players who aren’t involved regularly can go out on-loan or we can organise friendly reserve games when it suits us.
“I’ve got players in Chris Baguley, Rory Patterson and Jerome Wright who I believe can play in the League and I don’t fear next season. There are going to be plenty of good sides but I believe we could be one of them.”
The atmosphere at Gigg Lane will put plenty of fire in opposition bellies but not for too much longer hopes Marginson.
Marginson says the club won’t realise their potential until they have a home to call their own.
“Some people think we’ve got buckets of money – that’s not the case and until we get our own ground we won’t be able to be as self sufficient as we want,” he added.
“The plans are well down the road and that’s going to be a big plus – at the moment all we are doing is handing out a huge amount of money to Bury every week.
“We all want our own home and when we move back closer to Manchester city centre I see no reason why our attendances won’t improve again and push the club on further. I just hope I can play my part because I’ve loved every minute so far."
Karl Marginson (FC United Manager) by Craig Chisnall
Sunday, May 11, 2008
PRINCIPLES can be expensive in sport.
They probably cost Eric Liddell the 100m title at the 1924 Olympics while devout Christian Jonathan Edwards withdrew from the 1991 World Championships when his triple jump final was scheduled for a Sunday.
So what price strongly-held principles for the fans of FC United?
The supporters who formed their breakaway club to restore footballing traditions of the past – Saturday 3pm kick-offs among them – might soon find that success comes at a price.
When FC United’s fixture against Curzon Ashton this season was moved to accommodate UniBond TV there was uproar.
The fans turned their backs on the meddlesome broadcasters and went to watch their reserves instead.
Now, just two promotions from the Blue Square Premier – and the prospect of games being staged to suit broadcasters once more – reality of modern day sport could soon bite again.
Manager Karl Marginson bright but knows some tough decisions might need to be made by his hard-core supporters following the club’s third successive promotion to the UniBond Premier League.
“Without a doubt we can become a Football League club but there are big bridges to be crossed,” said Marginson.
“There are going to be issues with the fans but they will be the ones who decide how far we want to go.
“You only have to look at the backlash of the fans when the game was moved for UniBond TV.
With the right decisions in place there will be a compromise. The TV companies do bring in money at this level but we’ve got fans who travel in large numbers and the attraction of the club has been football at traditional times.
“They aren’t going to want to travel to Weymouth on a Sunday night just because our match is on the TV. Nobody is blind to the issues and these things are going to come up but the beauty of the club is that they will be voted on.
“It’s all in the future and it probably will be a nightmare but I will have to have a look at it at some point.
“I’m ambitious and I want to realise my ambitions with FC United – I live and breathe this club.”
Marginson does just that – as well as being boss of the first team he works in the club’s community department. And it’s those links with the community that have made the club a stunning success. The club’s home gates have been consistently higher than landlords Bury’s and the away travel has had many cashstrapped clubs rubbing their hands when they come to town.
Now UniBond Premier chairmen will be seeing pound signs – but it’s a big step-up for Marginson’s men.
But Marginson reveals he has learned a lot in the last 12 months to take into Step 3.
“I’ve been planning for next season for a couple of months and the main thing we need to have is more strength in depth,” Marginson added.
“We lost our leading goalscorer in Stuart Rudd and my captain Dave Chadwick for the majority of the season and it was hard to replace them.
“We were asking young lads to do jobs that were a little bit too much for them and we can’t afford to do that next season.
“We’re going to restructure a few things. I’m going to have a bigger first team squad rather than the reserves and players who aren’t involved regularly can go out on-loan or we can organise friendly reserve games when it suits us.
“I’ve got players in Chris Baguley, Rory Patterson and Jerome Wright who I believe can play in the League and I don’t fear next season. There are going to be plenty of good sides but I believe we could be one of them.”
The atmosphere at Gigg Lane will put plenty of fire in opposition bellies but not for too much longer hopes Marginson.
Marginson says the club won’t realise their potential until they have a home to call their own.
“Some people think we’ve got buckets of money – that’s not the case and until we get our own ground we won’t be able to be as self sufficient as we want,” he added.
“The plans are well down the road and that’s going to be a big plus – at the moment all we are doing is handing out a huge amount of money to Bury every week.
“We all want our own home and when we move back closer to Manchester city centre I see no reason why our attendances won’t improve again and push the club on further. I just hope I can play my part because I’ve loved every minute so far."
Carden Gang On The Climb
by Craig Chisnall
Sunday, May 11, 2008
THE CARDEN clan had a double dose of success this week after brothers Adam and Paul shone for FC United and Cambridge.
Last weekend Rebels winger Adam helped FC Utd complete their third promotion in three years before Paul, who had watched his younger brother in the 4-1 win against Skelmersdale, played a leading role in the U’s play-off semi-final win against Burton on Tuesday.
Adam, 22, is now planning a first trip to the new Wembley to see if the U’s and his big bro can make it a promotion double.
Adam said: “I was made up when we won promotion – but just as much when Cambridge got to Wembley and it will be a special day to see Paul play there.
“There’s a whole load of family and friends going down to Wembley on a couple of buses and I hope it turns out to be a special day for all involved.
“It was nice to have Paul in the crowd last weekend because we hardly ever get to see each other play.
“He said I had done OK and it was great to play my part in helping FC United secure another promotion.”
Paul – who has been onloan at Cambridge from Accrington since November – is eager to follow Adam’s promotion lead.
“Adam had a really good game and it was good to see a Scouser getting promoted with United!
“I’m just hoping we can complete the job to make it a memorable couple of weeks for the family.”
Sunday, May 11, 2008
THE CARDEN clan had a double dose of success this week after brothers Adam and Paul shone for FC United and Cambridge.
Last weekend Rebels winger Adam helped FC Utd complete their third promotion in three years before Paul, who had watched his younger brother in the 4-1 win against Skelmersdale, played a leading role in the U’s play-off semi-final win against Burton on Tuesday.
Adam, 22, is now planning a first trip to the new Wembley to see if the U’s and his big bro can make it a promotion double.
Adam said: “I was made up when we won promotion – but just as much when Cambridge got to Wembley and it will be a special day to see Paul play there.
“There’s a whole load of family and friends going down to Wembley on a couple of buses and I hope it turns out to be a special day for all involved.
“It was nice to have Paul in the crowd last weekend because we hardly ever get to see each other play.
“He said I had done OK and it was great to play my part in helping FC United secure another promotion.”
Paul – who has been onloan at Cambridge from Accrington since November – is eager to follow Adam’s promotion lead.
“Adam had a really good game and it was good to see a Scouser getting promoted with United!
“I’m just hoping we can complete the job to make it a memorable couple of weeks for the family.”
Saturday, May 10, 2008
WE HAVE OUR SAY
Source: The Mirror
10/05/2008
The fsf was at Westminster this week giving evidence to the All Party Parliamentary Football Group inquiry into club governance.
Deep stuff we know, but important nonetheless. On the surface it could appear that football has "never had it so good." Dig a little deeper and there are real problems.
Also giving evidence were ex-England chief Howard Wilkinson from the League Managers' Association, the PFA, the FSF's very good friends at Supporters Direct and a rep from FC United of Manchester, just promoted to the Unibond Premier League... the club set up by unhappy Man United supporters after the Glazer takeover at Old Trafford.
The FSF concentrated their contribution on how the FA and the leagues supervise "fit and proper person" tests for club owners and directors - a step in the right direction but needing to be beefed up.
Advertisement
Website: fsf.org.uk
10/05/2008
The fsf was at Westminster this week giving evidence to the All Party Parliamentary Football Group inquiry into club governance.
Deep stuff we know, but important nonetheless. On the surface it could appear that football has "never had it so good." Dig a little deeper and there are real problems.
Also giving evidence were ex-England chief Howard Wilkinson from the League Managers' Association, the PFA, the FSF's very good friends at Supporters Direct and a rep from FC United of Manchester, just promoted to the Unibond Premier League... the club set up by unhappy Man United supporters after the Glazer takeover at Old Trafford.
The FSF concentrated their contribution on how the FA and the leagues supervise "fit and proper person" tests for club owners and directors - a step in the right direction but needing to be beefed up.
Advertisement
Website: fsf.org.uk
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Rebels set sights on more glory
By Liam Chronnell
KARL Marginson is confident FC United can continue their meteoric rise next season in the UniBond Premier League.
The Rebels boss says next year holds no fears for the breakaway club after they completed a third successful promotion campaign in a row.
The Gigg Lane tenants, formed by disenchanted Manchester United fans unhappy at the takeover of the club by Malcolm Glazer in 2005, are now just three divisions below the Football League.
And Marginson sees no reason why FC, who admits the latest promotion was the best yet, cannot achieve more glory next term.
"We don't fear anyone," said Marginson, who gave up his fruit and veg round to take up the manager's position on full time this season.
"I've played at this level all my life and I know what the script is and what it holds. But we're just going to enjoy it now and look to kick on next year.
"We've got a decent nucleus of players. There will be players who want to come and play at the club and when they hear how much we're paying they won't want to come to the club.
"I've got my eye on a couple of players who will strengthen the squad, and we've got a fantastic reserve team behind us which is going to be disbanded next year, so I'll be looking at giving some of those players a chance."
Marginson, who also saw his side lift the the Presidents Cup this season, added: "It's definitely the best promotion yet. The last two seasons have run pretty smoothly but this season has been a right tussle; losing players, having games called off and the backlog of fixtures.
"Everything that could go against us did go against us, but for the lads to stay as mentally and physically strong as they have done is a fantastic credit to them.
"I've had to learn a lot very quickly this year with things going against us like they did, but it's all a learning a curve.
"I'm only 37-year-old so there will be plenty more seasons like this. But I never thought we wouldn't go up. Right until the end, I thought we would win it.
"I truly believe we are the best team in the league but with all the injuries it has not worked out like that.
FC sealed promotion with a 4-1 win against Skelmersdale United in Saturday's eventful play-off final at Gigg Lane. Referee Billy Khatib upset the Merseysiders by sending off two players and awarding the home side three penalties.
But Marginson, pictured, believes FC earned their good fortune this season.
"The sending off was the turning point," he said. "The letter of the law says it's a penalty and the lad sees red. Then we missed a penalty and got another one but, over the course of the season, decisions even themselves out.
"I've said that many times when we've had bad ones go against us, luckily it went for us on this occasion. But, 11 against 11, I'm sure we would still have been stronger than them.
"In the first half they were strong and direct, but in recent weeks we get better as the game goes on. I put it down to the crowd - the noise level goes up and we respond to it."
And the manager, who said the club had no plans to turn professional in the foreseeable future, hailed the role the supporters had played in the Rebels' success.
He added: "The fans are everything. The players will get all the plaudits, which they deserve, but the fans have been amazing. They've been away to Harrogate, Newcastle - they just kept turning up in numbers to support the red shirts and it's a credit to them."
9:42am
08/05/2008
KARL Marginson is confident FC United can continue their meteoric rise next season in the UniBond Premier League.
The Rebels boss says next year holds no fears for the breakaway club after they completed a third successful promotion campaign in a row.
The Gigg Lane tenants, formed by disenchanted Manchester United fans unhappy at the takeover of the club by Malcolm Glazer in 2005, are now just three divisions below the Football League.
And Marginson sees no reason why FC, who admits the latest promotion was the best yet, cannot achieve more glory next term.
"We don't fear anyone," said Marginson, who gave up his fruit and veg round to take up the manager's position on full time this season.
"I've played at this level all my life and I know what the script is and what it holds. But we're just going to enjoy it now and look to kick on next year.
"We've got a decent nucleus of players. There will be players who want to come and play at the club and when they hear how much we're paying they won't want to come to the club.
"I've got my eye on a couple of players who will strengthen the squad, and we've got a fantastic reserve team behind us which is going to be disbanded next year, so I'll be looking at giving some of those players a chance."
Marginson, who also saw his side lift the the Presidents Cup this season, added: "It's definitely the best promotion yet. The last two seasons have run pretty smoothly but this season has been a right tussle; losing players, having games called off and the backlog of fixtures.
"Everything that could go against us did go against us, but for the lads to stay as mentally and physically strong as they have done is a fantastic credit to them.
"I've had to learn a lot very quickly this year with things going against us like they did, but it's all a learning a curve.
"I'm only 37-year-old so there will be plenty more seasons like this. But I never thought we wouldn't go up. Right until the end, I thought we would win it.
"I truly believe we are the best team in the league but with all the injuries it has not worked out like that.
FC sealed promotion with a 4-1 win against Skelmersdale United in Saturday's eventful play-off final at Gigg Lane. Referee Billy Khatib upset the Merseysiders by sending off two players and awarding the home side three penalties.
But Marginson, pictured, believes FC earned their good fortune this season.
"The sending off was the turning point," he said. "The letter of the law says it's a penalty and the lad sees red. Then we missed a penalty and got another one but, over the course of the season, decisions even themselves out.
"I've said that many times when we've had bad ones go against us, luckily it went for us on this occasion. But, 11 against 11, I'm sure we would still have been stronger than them.
"In the first half they were strong and direct, but in recent weeks we get better as the game goes on. I put it down to the crowd - the noise level goes up and we respond to it."
And the manager, who said the club had no plans to turn professional in the foreseeable future, hailed the role the supporters had played in the Rebels' success.
He added: "The fans are everything. The players will get all the plaudits, which they deserve, but the fans have been amazing. They've been away to Harrogate, Newcastle - they just kept turning up in numbers to support the red shirts and it's a credit to them."
9:42am
08/05/2008
FC United 4 Skelmersdale 1
Tony Howard
8/ 5/2008
IT WAS on a cold November night at Mossley that FC United manager Karl Marginson promised the fans that his side would gain a third successive promotion – and six months later he was proved right.
The reds may have lost 2-0 on that bitter winter’s eve and they looked dead and buried in the mid-table obscurity of the UniBond League First Division North with the season barely halfway through.
Many called the gaffer’s credibility into question following his brash, and seemingly impossible, statement. But after masterminding his side’s play-off final win over Skelmersdale United on Saturday, Margy could bask in the glow of a remarkable achievement with all doubters wearing faces redder than his own sunburnt Ancoats boat.
It was a terrible season with injuries, postponements and outright bad luck plaguing United at every turn. But things certainly evened themselves out as FC were gifted three penalties on Saturday and ended the game with two players more than poor Skem.
Early nerves gave way to apparent disaster as the visitors took the lead when Sean McConville bent in a free kick that Denis Irwin would have been proud of.
FC pressed before the game’s turning point came when Jerome Wright’s header was saved on the line by Skem captain Michael White.
Unfortunately, Mr White wasn’t the keeper and the referee had no hesitation in introducing the big centre half to the Mr Red hiding in his top pocket.
A hushed crowd were not disappointed as Nicky Platt stepped up to coolly make it 1-1 from the spot.
Early in the second half, FC were in front after Jamie Baguley floated in a free kick which was successfully met by the considerable bonce of skipper Dave Chadwick.
And the drama was far from over. Following a good chance for Skem, United won their second penalty, which was again awarded for handball. Platt only managed to rattle the crossbar with his spot kick. However, Simon Carden was shoved as he went for the rebound and, remarkably, the referee awarded another penalty.
This time Rory Patterson took it. His effort appeared to have been saved but a freakish spin that Shane Warne would do well to emulate saw the ball curl over the line for 3-1.
The game was over as a contest minutes later as Skem substitute Kevin Leadbetter got a touch of the Mascherano’s and was dismissed for insulting the referee.
FC’s substitute Chris Baguley rounded things off with a 25-yard drive into the bottom corner with 15 minutes to go.
The crowd celebrated long into the night and now the club begin their plan of attack for life in the UniBond Premier Division next season – a feat that seemed so improbable that night on the frozen hills of Mossley.
8/ 5/2008
IT WAS on a cold November night at Mossley that FC United manager Karl Marginson promised the fans that his side would gain a third successive promotion – and six months later he was proved right.
The reds may have lost 2-0 on that bitter winter’s eve and they looked dead and buried in the mid-table obscurity of the UniBond League First Division North with the season barely halfway through.
Many called the gaffer’s credibility into question following his brash, and seemingly impossible, statement. But after masterminding his side’s play-off final win over Skelmersdale United on Saturday, Margy could bask in the glow of a remarkable achievement with all doubters wearing faces redder than his own sunburnt Ancoats boat.
It was a terrible season with injuries, postponements and outright bad luck plaguing United at every turn. But things certainly evened themselves out as FC were gifted three penalties on Saturday and ended the game with two players more than poor Skem.
Early nerves gave way to apparent disaster as the visitors took the lead when Sean McConville bent in a free kick that Denis Irwin would have been proud of.
FC pressed before the game’s turning point came when Jerome Wright’s header was saved on the line by Skem captain Michael White.
Unfortunately, Mr White wasn’t the keeper and the referee had no hesitation in introducing the big centre half to the Mr Red hiding in his top pocket.
A hushed crowd were not disappointed as Nicky Platt stepped up to coolly make it 1-1 from the spot.
Early in the second half, FC were in front after Jamie Baguley floated in a free kick which was successfully met by the considerable bonce of skipper Dave Chadwick.
And the drama was far from over. Following a good chance for Skem, United won their second penalty, which was again awarded for handball. Platt only managed to rattle the crossbar with his spot kick. However, Simon Carden was shoved as he went for the rebound and, remarkably, the referee awarded another penalty.
This time Rory Patterson took it. His effort appeared to have been saved but a freakish spin that Shane Warne would do well to emulate saw the ball curl over the line for 3-1.
The game was over as a contest minutes later as Skem substitute Kevin Leadbetter got a touch of the Mascherano’s and was dismissed for insulting the referee.
FC’s substitute Chris Baguley rounded things off with a 25-yard drive into the bottom corner with 15 minutes to go.
The crowd celebrated long into the night and now the club begin their plan of attack for life in the UniBond Premier Division next season – a feat that seemed so improbable that night on the frozen hills of Mossley.
Club defends FC United deal
Source: Sale and Altrincham Messenger
By Connor Murphy
ALTRINCHAM vice chairman Grahame Rowley claims the controversial deal that could see FC United play cup games at Moss Lane next season will only be good for the club.
The Robins have struck a deal with the breakaway Manchester United fans' club in which the Reds will play all home FA Cup and FA Trophy games at the ground during the 2008/09 campaign.
Both teams will also meet in a preseason friendly at Moss Lane on Tuesday July 22 and the two announcements have caused unrest among the club's support.
Much of the anger stems from an incident which occured at a preseason friendly between the two clubs at Moss Lane in 2006, when young Altrincham fans were attacked by a handful of FC United supporters.
There is also a worry the deal could lead to a permamnent groundshare agreement between the two clubs, but Rowley has moved quickly to allay fans' fears.
He said: "The decision was made on a purely financial basis.
"The club are looking at all areas to be able to increase our budget and this was one of them. We want to be able to compete at the highest level possible and that means generating more revenue.
"It's financially sound for the club but I can assure people that it's not leading towards a permanent groundshare.
"We have hired our ground out plenty of times since the end of the season and it's not been a problem so why should it be now.
"It may not even happen because they might be drawn away in the cup so we'll have to wait and see."
2:55pm Thursday 8th May 2008
By Connor Murphy
ALTRINCHAM vice chairman Grahame Rowley claims the controversial deal that could see FC United play cup games at Moss Lane next season will only be good for the club.
The Robins have struck a deal with the breakaway Manchester United fans' club in which the Reds will play all home FA Cup and FA Trophy games at the ground during the 2008/09 campaign.
Both teams will also meet in a preseason friendly at Moss Lane on Tuesday July 22 and the two announcements have caused unrest among the club's support.
Much of the anger stems from an incident which occured at a preseason friendly between the two clubs at Moss Lane in 2006, when young Altrincham fans were attacked by a handful of FC United supporters.
There is also a worry the deal could lead to a permamnent groundshare agreement between the two clubs, but Rowley has moved quickly to allay fans' fears.
He said: "The decision was made on a purely financial basis.
"The club are looking at all areas to be able to increase our budget and this was one of them. We want to be able to compete at the highest level possible and that means generating more revenue.
"It's financially sound for the club but I can assure people that it's not leading towards a permanent groundshare.
"We have hired our ground out plenty of times since the end of the season and it's not been a problem so why should it be now.
"It may not even happen because they might be drawn away in the cup so we'll have to wait and see."
2:55pm Thursday 8th May 2008
AFC Liverpool join the rebels with vow of football for all
David Conn
The Guardian,
Thursday May 8 2008
First there was AFC Wimbledon, formed by fans turning away from the "franchising" of their club to Milton Keynes in 2002, then FC United of Manchester, established three years later by supporters opposed to the Glazer family's Old Trafford takeover. From next season, another grassroots offshoot of a big club will embark on a non-League football adventure: AFC Liverpool.
Begun just nine weeks ago as an idea floated on the internet by lifelong Liverpool fan Alun Parry, AFC Liverpool has formed as a supporter-owned club with 500 members and rising, recruited an experienced non-League manager, Derek Goulding, and held trials on Monday to which 300 hopeful players turned up, eager to be part of the inaugural season.
Parry, 37, a musician and Kop season ticket holder, stresses that the club is not a protest or reaction to the more painful aspects of Tom Hicks and George Gillett's ownership of Liverpool. His key motivation is to form a club which less well-off and younger supporters can afford to watch.
"Many people have been priced out at Anfield," Parry explained. "I do not blame the club, their prices are low compared to other Premier League clubs. They are just too much for a lot of us."
Full ticket prices at Anfield this season were £34 and £32 for category B games; £34 and £36 for category A; season tickets ranged from £650 in the main stand to £600 in the Kop. The demand is there, with a long waiting list for season tickets, but Parry points to an ageing of the Liverpool crowd, as at Premier League grounds generally.
"It came home to me when my brother, John, who can't afford to go, took his son to Anfield just to show him the atmosphere outside a game - he couldn't afford to take them both in. My dad took me on to the Kop as a boy and the ground was teeming with kids. In 1985 a Kop season ticket was £45, now it's £600. Young people can't afford it."
AFC Liverpool ticket prices have been set at £5 for adults and a maximum of £2 for children, and Parry is hoping for crowds of between 1,500 and 2,000.
Goulding, formerly manager of the Blue Square North club Burscough, is enthusiastic: "The club's founding values are spot on," he said. "A lot of Liverpool people are missing out on the football experience which used to be for everyone."
Last Saturday AFC Wimbledon and FC United of Manchester won promotion via their play-offs, to Blue Square South and the UniBond Premier League respectively. AFC Liverpool will be starting next season where FCUM began in 2005, in the Vodkat North West Counties League, Division Two.
The Guardian,
Thursday May 8 2008
First there was AFC Wimbledon, formed by fans turning away from the "franchising" of their club to Milton Keynes in 2002, then FC United of Manchester, established three years later by supporters opposed to the Glazer family's Old Trafford takeover. From next season, another grassroots offshoot of a big club will embark on a non-League football adventure: AFC Liverpool.
Begun just nine weeks ago as an idea floated on the internet by lifelong Liverpool fan Alun Parry, AFC Liverpool has formed as a supporter-owned club with 500 members and rising, recruited an experienced non-League manager, Derek Goulding, and held trials on Monday to which 300 hopeful players turned up, eager to be part of the inaugural season.
Parry, 37, a musician and Kop season ticket holder, stresses that the club is not a protest or reaction to the more painful aspects of Tom Hicks and George Gillett's ownership of Liverpool. His key motivation is to form a club which less well-off and younger supporters can afford to watch.
"Many people have been priced out at Anfield," Parry explained. "I do not blame the club, their prices are low compared to other Premier League clubs. They are just too much for a lot of us."
Full ticket prices at Anfield this season were £34 and £32 for category B games; £34 and £36 for category A; season tickets ranged from £650 in the main stand to £600 in the Kop. The demand is there, with a long waiting list for season tickets, but Parry points to an ageing of the Liverpool crowd, as at Premier League grounds generally.
"It came home to me when my brother, John, who can't afford to go, took his son to Anfield just to show him the atmosphere outside a game - he couldn't afford to take them both in. My dad took me on to the Kop as a boy and the ground was teeming with kids. In 1985 a Kop season ticket was £45, now it's £600. Young people can't afford it."
AFC Liverpool ticket prices have been set at £5 for adults and a maximum of £2 for children, and Parry is hoping for crowds of between 1,500 and 2,000.
Goulding, formerly manager of the Blue Square North club Burscough, is enthusiastic: "The club's founding values are spot on," he said. "A lot of Liverpool people are missing out on the football experience which used to be for everyone."
Last Saturday AFC Wimbledon and FC United of Manchester won promotion via their play-offs, to Blue Square South and the UniBond Premier League respectively. AFC Liverpool will be starting next season where FCUM began in 2005, in the Vodkat North West Counties League, Division Two.
Monday, May 05, 2008
Extract from The Guardian
(From "Stanley promise full cooperation in betting probe")
Tom Davies
The Guardian,
Monday May 5 2008
... Meanwhile it was a weekend of celebrations for fan-run breakaway clubs, with both AFC Wimbledon and FC United of Manchester securing promotions.
The Dons won promotion to the Conference South with a 2-1 win at Staines in their Ryman Premier play-off final. They fell behind to a Matt Flitter header in the first half but levelled through Luis Cumbers' header before, with six minutes remaining, Mark De Volla's low free-kick.
FC United secured a place in the UniBond Premier Division with a 4-1 win over Skelmersdale United. The visitors took an early lead in the Northern Premier League play-off but goals from Nicky Platt, David Chadwick, Rory Patterson and Chris Baguley brought victory.
Tom Davies
The Guardian,
Monday May 5 2008
... Meanwhile it was a weekend of celebrations for fan-run breakaway clubs, with both AFC Wimbledon and FC United of Manchester securing promotions.
The Dons won promotion to the Conference South with a 2-1 win at Staines in their Ryman Premier play-off final. They fell behind to a Matt Flitter header in the first half but levelled through Luis Cumbers' header before, with six minutes remaining, Mark De Volla's low free-kick.
FC United secured a place in the UniBond Premier Division with a 4-1 win over Skelmersdale United. The visitors took an early lead in the Northern Premier League play-off but goals from Nicky Platt, David Chadwick, Rory Patterson and Chris Baguley brought victory.
FC clinch promotion
Graham Hardcastle
5/ 5/2008
FC United manager Karl Marginson has set his sights on what would be an amazing four successive promotion.
The Rebels safely confirmed their passage to the Unibond Premier Division with a pulsating victory over Skelmersdale in the Division One North play-off final at Gigg Lane on Saturday.
And with it came their third promotion in three years of existence. Two penalties from Nicky Platt and Rory Chadwick were complimented with strikes from captain marvel Dave Chadwick and sub Chris Baguley.
The visitors had gone ahead in front of a bumper crowd of 3,258 thanks to Sean McConville's stunning tenth minute free-kick.
But Skem finished the game with nine men after referee Billy Khatib dismissed skipper Michael White and Kevin Leadbetter.
Marginson said: "We've had three fantastic seasons - this promotion is the best of the lot.
"Four promotions has got to be the aim. We will be setting our stall out to go as far as we can. We will start off with the first game, try and win that, and then see where it takes us.
"I know they are all clichés, but there is nothing more true. You have got to take each game as it comes. We have got to judge each game on its own merit, and try and win football matches. That has been our philosophy in three years - it's not been a bad one."
After going behind early on, the Reds drew level six minutes before the break when White saw red for handling Jerome Wright's goalbound header. Platt clinically converted from the spot.
Defender Chadwick, who had been a doubt with a hamstring strain, gave the hosts the lead when he nodded home a long free-kick on 51 minutes.
Any hopes of a Skem recovery were completely banished just after the hour. Michael Duffy was harshly penalised for deliberately handling in the box.
Platt smashed the ball against the bar, only to see it balloon to the edge of the box where another penalty was awarded for minimal contact in a scramble.
Star striker Rory Patterson converted but only after the ball had spun into the net off the hand of keeper Rory McMahon.
Skem sub Leadbetter was dismissed for referee abuse, while sub Chris Baguley added a fourth with a low 20-yard drive ten minutes from time.
5/ 5/2008
FC United manager Karl Marginson has set his sights on what would be an amazing four successive promotion.
The Rebels safely confirmed their passage to the Unibond Premier Division with a pulsating victory over Skelmersdale in the Division One North play-off final at Gigg Lane on Saturday.
And with it came their third promotion in three years of existence. Two penalties from Nicky Platt and Rory Chadwick were complimented with strikes from captain marvel Dave Chadwick and sub Chris Baguley.
The visitors had gone ahead in front of a bumper crowd of 3,258 thanks to Sean McConville's stunning tenth minute free-kick.
But Skem finished the game with nine men after referee Billy Khatib dismissed skipper Michael White and Kevin Leadbetter.
Marginson said: "We've had three fantastic seasons - this promotion is the best of the lot.
"Four promotions has got to be the aim. We will be setting our stall out to go as far as we can. We will start off with the first game, try and win that, and then see where it takes us.
"I know they are all clichés, but there is nothing more true. You have got to take each game as it comes. We have got to judge each game on its own merit, and try and win football matches. That has been our philosophy in three years - it's not been a bad one."
After going behind early on, the Reds drew level six minutes before the break when White saw red for handling Jerome Wright's goalbound header. Platt clinically converted from the spot.
Defender Chadwick, who had been a doubt with a hamstring strain, gave the hosts the lead when he nodded home a long free-kick on 51 minutes.
Any hopes of a Skem recovery were completely banished just after the hour. Michael Duffy was harshly penalised for deliberately handling in the box.
Platt smashed the ball against the bar, only to see it balloon to the edge of the box where another penalty was awarded for minimal contact in a scramble.
Star striker Rory Patterson converted but only after the ball had spun into the net off the hand of keeper Rory McMahon.
Skem sub Leadbetter was dismissed for referee abuse, while sub Chris Baguley added a fourth with a low 20-yard drive ten minutes from time.
Third consecutive promotion for rebels
By Liam Chronnell
FC United 4 Skelmersdale 1
UniBond Division One North
FC United's meteoric rise continued as they sealed a third successive promotion with a rousing victory over Skelmersdale United in the play-off final.
The Rebels, formed by disenchanted Manchester United fans unhappy at the takeover of the club by Malcolm Glazer in 2005, are now three divisions below the Football League.
Sean McConville's superb 10th-minute free-kick put the Merseysiders in front, but the game's turning point came five minutes before half-time.
Jerome Wright's header was going in when Skem captain Michael Whittle deliberately handled on the goal line. Referee Billy Khatib had no option but to show the defender a red card and Nicky Platt coolly sent goalkeeper Ryan McMahon the wrong way with his penalty.
Skipper Dave Chadwick put the Reds in front six minutes after the restart when he headed home at the far post from Jamie Baguley's deep free kick.
Wright then had a goal' disallowed when the official might have played an advantage after the winger had been fouled in the build-up, before the game descended into chaos on 61 minutes.
Khatib awarded a second penalty when Michael Duffy handled while on the floor. Platt's effort ballooned off the crossbar but, as the players waited for the ball to come down, the referee, though probably no-one else in the ground, saw the slightest of pushes on Simon Carden and pointed to the spot again. This time Rory Patterson accepted the responsibility, and was fortunate to see his spot-kick spin in after McMahon had saved it.
Substitute Kevin Leadbetter became the second Skem player to receive his marching orders moments later as frustrations threatened to boil over.
FC's Chris Baguley secured UniBond Premier football on 80 minutes when he drilled home from 25 yards to spark joyous celebrations among the 3,258 crowd.
7:23am
05/05/2008
FC United 4 Skelmersdale 1
UniBond Division One North
FC United's meteoric rise continued as they sealed a third successive promotion with a rousing victory over Skelmersdale United in the play-off final.
The Rebels, formed by disenchanted Manchester United fans unhappy at the takeover of the club by Malcolm Glazer in 2005, are now three divisions below the Football League.
Sean McConville's superb 10th-minute free-kick put the Merseysiders in front, but the game's turning point came five minutes before half-time.
Jerome Wright's header was going in when Skem captain Michael Whittle deliberately handled on the goal line. Referee Billy Khatib had no option but to show the defender a red card and Nicky Platt coolly sent goalkeeper Ryan McMahon the wrong way with his penalty.
Skipper Dave Chadwick put the Reds in front six minutes after the restart when he headed home at the far post from Jamie Baguley's deep free kick.
Wright then had a goal' disallowed when the official might have played an advantage after the winger had been fouled in the build-up, before the game descended into chaos on 61 minutes.
Khatib awarded a second penalty when Michael Duffy handled while on the floor. Platt's effort ballooned off the crossbar but, as the players waited for the ball to come down, the referee, though probably no-one else in the ground, saw the slightest of pushes on Simon Carden and pointed to the spot again. This time Rory Patterson accepted the responsibility, and was fortunate to see his spot-kick spin in after McMahon had saved it.
Substitute Kevin Leadbetter became the second Skem player to receive his marching orders moments later as frustrations threatened to boil over.
FC's Chris Baguley secured UniBond Premier football on 80 minutes when he drilled home from 25 yards to spark joyous celebrations among the 3,258 crowd.
7:23am
05/05/2008
Skelmersdale’s fighting spirit not enough
May 5 2008 by Our Correspondent
Liverpool Daily Post
SKELMERSDALE missed out on promotion in heart-breaking fashion in front of a 3,258 crowd at Gigg Lane despite taking an early lead in their UniBond Division One North play-off final.
The scoreline of 4-1 gives the impression there was a huge gulf between the sides, but when Skem were competing with 11 men they more than matched their rivals.
Georgie Donnelly was brought down in the 10th minute following a surging run and from 25 yards out Sean McConville planted his free-kick into the top right-hand corner of the net.
FC United of Manchester began their comeback just before half-time when Jerome Wright’s header was goalward bound, but Michael White instinctively raised his arm to divert the ball off target.
The referee had no alternative but to send him off and Nicky Platt duly dispatched the spot-kick to level the game.
In the 48th minute Anthony Murt rounded the keeper but was forced into shooting from an acute angle. The shot was cleared for a corner which was taken short to McConville – he in turn dribbled the ball across the 18-yard box before unleashing a shot which had to be cleared off the line.
Against the run of play at that particular stage FC United scored their second goal when Dave Chadwick headed home Jamie Baguley’s free-kick at the far post.
In the 61st minute FC United were awarded a penalty when Michael Duffy was judged to have handled the ball. It was a harsh decision. Duffy had blocked the initial danger with his thigh as he was falling to the ground only to see the ball fall to his arm as he tried to redeem himself.
Platt’s spot-kick thundered off the crossbar, but just as it looked as though Skem were off the hook, the referee awarded another penalty for an off-the-ball incident.
This time Rory Patterson took the kick and although Ryan McMahon managed to take the sting out of the shot, the momentum managed to carry the ball over the line.
Kevin Leadbetter took to the field as United went for a ‘nothing to lose’ all-out attack. He managed all of four minutes before he was controversially sent off for foul and abusive language, and with Skem forced to see out the game with just nine men, they didn’t stand a chance of staging a revival.
Substitute Chris Baguley completed the scoring in the 79th minute with a low drive into the bottom right hand corner of the net.
SKEM: McMahon, Foster, Turner, Akrigg, White, Holland (Leadbetter 64) Birchall (O’Donnell 77) Duffy, Murt (Wilson 77) Donnelly, McConville. ATT: 3,258.
Liverpool Daily Post
SKELMERSDALE missed out on promotion in heart-breaking fashion in front of a 3,258 crowd at Gigg Lane despite taking an early lead in their UniBond Division One North play-off final.
The scoreline of 4-1 gives the impression there was a huge gulf between the sides, but when Skem were competing with 11 men they more than matched their rivals.
Georgie Donnelly was brought down in the 10th minute following a surging run and from 25 yards out Sean McConville planted his free-kick into the top right-hand corner of the net.
FC United of Manchester began their comeback just before half-time when Jerome Wright’s header was goalward bound, but Michael White instinctively raised his arm to divert the ball off target.
The referee had no alternative but to send him off and Nicky Platt duly dispatched the spot-kick to level the game.
In the 48th minute Anthony Murt rounded the keeper but was forced into shooting from an acute angle. The shot was cleared for a corner which was taken short to McConville – he in turn dribbled the ball across the 18-yard box before unleashing a shot which had to be cleared off the line.
Against the run of play at that particular stage FC United scored their second goal when Dave Chadwick headed home Jamie Baguley’s free-kick at the far post.
In the 61st minute FC United were awarded a penalty when Michael Duffy was judged to have handled the ball. It was a harsh decision. Duffy had blocked the initial danger with his thigh as he was falling to the ground only to see the ball fall to his arm as he tried to redeem himself.
Platt’s spot-kick thundered off the crossbar, but just as it looked as though Skem were off the hook, the referee awarded another penalty for an off-the-ball incident.
This time Rory Patterson took the kick and although Ryan McMahon managed to take the sting out of the shot, the momentum managed to carry the ball over the line.
Kevin Leadbetter took to the field as United went for a ‘nothing to lose’ all-out attack. He managed all of four minutes before he was controversially sent off for foul and abusive language, and with Skem forced to see out the game with just nine men, they didn’t stand a chance of staging a revival.
Substitute Chris Baguley completed the scoring in the 79th minute with a low drive into the bottom right hand corner of the net.
SKEM: McMahon, Foster, Turner, Akrigg, White, Holland (Leadbetter 64) Birchall (O’Donnell 77) Duffy, Murt (Wilson 77) Donnelly, McConville. ATT: 3,258.
Sunday, May 04, 2008
Skem face up to Premier crunch
May 3 2008 by David Bassett, Liverpool Echo
SKELMERSDALE United go into this afternoon’s massive promotion battle with FC United of Manchester at the end of what manager Tommy Lawson has described as a “fantastic season.”
Lawson’s men are playing in the final of the UniBond First Division North play-offs at Bury’s Gigg Lane, with a place in the Premier Division at stake and with it the prospect of a host of league derbies against Vauxhall Motors, Marine, Prescot Cables and Cammell Laird.
It is an exciting opportunity for Skem, who, as well as claiming a play-off place after finishing third, have also reached the final of the UniBond Cup, where they lost to Premier Division high-flyers Eastwood Town, and the semi-finals of the Liverpool Senior Cup.
“We have still got things to play for when everyone else has finished, and it has been a fantastic season,” said boss Lawson, who also paid tribute to the growing support for the club in the town.
A total of almost 10,000 fans have passed through the turnstiles in Skem’s league and cup games at their Ashley Travel Stadium this season, at an average of 275 per game, and Lawson said: “The support has been growing on a weekly basis and that is brilliant.
“People want to see winning teams and the support around the town has increased because of our excellent home record,” added Lawson, whose side won 20 of their 34 home games in all competitions.
“People get caught up in it all, whether it is a cup run, the league campaign or watching young players develop.”
SKELMERSDALE United go into this afternoon’s massive promotion battle with FC United of Manchester at the end of what manager Tommy Lawson has described as a “fantastic season.”
Lawson’s men are playing in the final of the UniBond First Division North play-offs at Bury’s Gigg Lane, with a place in the Premier Division at stake and with it the prospect of a host of league derbies against Vauxhall Motors, Marine, Prescot Cables and Cammell Laird.
It is an exciting opportunity for Skem, who, as well as claiming a play-off place after finishing third, have also reached the final of the UniBond Cup, where they lost to Premier Division high-flyers Eastwood Town, and the semi-finals of the Liverpool Senior Cup.
“We have still got things to play for when everyone else has finished, and it has been a fantastic season,” said boss Lawson, who also paid tribute to the growing support for the club in the town.
A total of almost 10,000 fans have passed through the turnstiles in Skem’s league and cup games at their Ashley Travel Stadium this season, at an average of 275 per game, and Lawson said: “The support has been growing on a weekly basis and that is brilliant.
“People want to see winning teams and the support around the town has increased because of our excellent home record,” added Lawson, whose side won 20 of their 34 home games in all competitions.
“People get caught up in it all, whether it is a cup run, the league campaign or watching young players develop.”
Saturday, May 03, 2008
FC UNITED AND NANTWICH ARE UP
Source: Non League Daily
The UniBond League Premier Division will no doubt be delighted to welcome FC United of Manchester into its ranks after they hammered Skelmersdale United 4-1 in Saturday`s Division One North play-off final at Gigg Lane in front of a fantastic crowd of 3,258.
However, they had to come back from being a 10th minute Sean McConville goal behind to win.
David Platt (Ed. it woz Nicky Platt) equalised from the penalty spot 4 minutes before half time and 6 minutes into the second half FC United took the lead through Dave Chadwick.
Top scorer Rory Patterson netted a second spot-kick to make it 3-1 just past the hour-mark and Chris Baguley rounded things off with a fourth 10 minutes from time.
They will be joined in the Premier Division next season by, ironically, another side promoted from the North West Counties League at the end of last season, Nantwich Town.
The Dabbers were involved in a much tighter Division One South final against Sheffield FC in front of a crowd of 1,354 at the Weaver Stadium.
Glynn Blackhurst (pictured) put the home side ahead after 32 minutes but Paul Smith levelled right on half time.
Dave Walker restored Nantwich`s lead in the 71st minute and that looked like being enough until Rob Ward grabbed a stoppage time equaliser for Sheffield to take the tie into extra-time.
Neither side could make a breakthrough, so it was penalties, which the Dabbers eventually came out on top of by a 4-2 margin.
The UniBond League Premier Division will no doubt be delighted to welcome FC United of Manchester into its ranks after they hammered Skelmersdale United 4-1 in Saturday`s Division One North play-off final at Gigg Lane in front of a fantastic crowd of 3,258.
However, they had to come back from being a 10th minute Sean McConville goal behind to win.
David Platt (Ed. it woz Nicky Platt) equalised from the penalty spot 4 minutes before half time and 6 minutes into the second half FC United took the lead through Dave Chadwick.
Top scorer Rory Patterson netted a second spot-kick to make it 3-1 just past the hour-mark and Chris Baguley rounded things off with a fourth 10 minutes from time.
They will be joined in the Premier Division next season by, ironically, another side promoted from the North West Counties League at the end of last season, Nantwich Town.
The Dabbers were involved in a much tighter Division One South final against Sheffield FC in front of a crowd of 1,354 at the Weaver Stadium.
Glynn Blackhurst (pictured) put the home side ahead after 32 minutes but Paul Smith levelled right on half time.
Dave Walker restored Nantwich`s lead in the 71st minute and that looked like being enough until Rob Ward grabbed a stoppage time equaliser for Sheffield to take the tie into extra-time.
Neither side could make a breakthrough, so it was penalties, which the Dabbers eventually came out on top of by a 4-2 margin.
Friday, May 02, 2008
Lawson sounds a Skem warcry
May 2 2008 by David Bassett, Liverpool Echo
SKELMERSDALE United face their biggest game in years tomorrow when they bid for a place in next season’s UniBond Premier Division.
Tommy Lawson’s men are away to FC United of Manchester in the First Division North play-off final, and the Skem boss is relishing the prospect as his young side bid to end a marathon 64-game season in style.
“Games like this are why you are involved in football at any level, when you can challenge for the big prizes,” he said.
“We have reached the semi-finals of the Liverpool Senior Cup and the League Cup final, finished third in the league and reached the play-offs, and the lads have enjoyed an exciting season, as I am sure the spectators have as well.”
Honours have been shared in three meetings so far this season between FC United, who regularly attract 2,000-plus gates for home games at Bury’s Gigg Lane, and Skem, with one win each and a draw.
Lawson said: “We have got a full squad to choose from and we are going there with lots of confidence.
“We have got key strikers back and we are scoring goals again.”
Among those strikers is 19-year-old George Donnelly, whose two goals in Tuesday’s 3-0 semi-final victory over Curzon Ashton after his recent return from suspension took him to 27 for the season.
“Georgie has come on leaps and bounds, and we are proud of what he has done,” said Lawson.
Bootle return to Vodkat Second Division action after their midweek League Cup Final defeat at the hands of Maine Road when they travel to Eccleshall.
Ashton Athletic complete their season with a home game against Oldham Town.
SKELMERSDALE United face their biggest game in years tomorrow when they bid for a place in next season’s UniBond Premier Division.
Tommy Lawson’s men are away to FC United of Manchester in the First Division North play-off final, and the Skem boss is relishing the prospect as his young side bid to end a marathon 64-game season in style.
“Games like this are why you are involved in football at any level, when you can challenge for the big prizes,” he said.
“We have reached the semi-finals of the Liverpool Senior Cup and the League Cup final, finished third in the league and reached the play-offs, and the lads have enjoyed an exciting season, as I am sure the spectators have as well.”
Honours have been shared in three meetings so far this season between FC United, who regularly attract 2,000-plus gates for home games at Bury’s Gigg Lane, and Skem, with one win each and a draw.
Lawson said: “We have got a full squad to choose from and we are going there with lots of confidence.
“We have got key strikers back and we are scoring goals again.”
Among those strikers is 19-year-old George Donnelly, whose two goals in Tuesday’s 3-0 semi-final victory over Curzon Ashton after his recent return from suspension took him to 27 for the season.
“Georgie has come on leaps and bounds, and we are proud of what he has done,” said Lawson.
Bootle return to Vodkat Second Division action after their midweek League Cup Final defeat at the hands of Maine Road when they travel to Eccleshall.
Ashton Athletic complete their season with a home game against Oldham Town.
FC BID FOR PROMOTION GLORY
Breakaway club FC United of Manchester are just one game away from a third consecutive promotion.
The club, formed in 2005 by Manchester United fans following the Glazer takeover at Old Trafford, face Skelmersdale United at Gigg Lane, Bury on Saturday afternoon (1500 BST).
And victory in the play-off final would take Karl Marginson's side up to the Unibond Premier next season.
FC reached the final with a tense 3-2 win in their play-off semi against Bamber Bridge on Wednesday night.
They finished the regular league season in second spot, just a point behind champions Bradford Park Avenue.
The club, formed in 2005 by Manchester United fans following the Glazer takeover at Old Trafford, face Skelmersdale United at Gigg Lane, Bury on Saturday afternoon (1500 BST).
And victory in the play-off final would take Karl Marginson's side up to the Unibond Premier next season.
FC reached the final with a tense 3-2 win in their play-off semi against Bamber Bridge on Wednesday night.
They finished the regular league season in second spot, just a point behind champions Bradford Park Avenue.
FC go for glory
By Liam Chronnell
FC United manager Karl Marginson believes sealing a third successive promotion would rank as the breakaway club's greatest ever achievement.
The Rebels face Skelmersdale United in the play-off final at Gigg Lane tomorrow with a place in the UniBond League Premier Division up for grabs.
And, in a campaign best by injury problems and a hectic fixture pile-up, the United boss admits it would eclipse any other success in the Reds' short history.
"With the amount of injuries we've had coupled with the fact that we've had to play 22 games in the last five weeks, promotion this season would be the best yet," said Marginson.
"It's the biggest game in the club's history. We've said it before but that's the beauty of being at a club which was only formed three years ago."
Goals from Adam Carden, Rory Patterson and Jerome Wright helped the Bury-based club, who have already won the Presidents Cup, overcome Bamber Bridge 3-2 in Wednesday night's semi-final clash. And Marginson believes his side will take confidence from that victory into the weekend's clash with the Merseysiders.
"It's going to be very even like the Bamber Bridge game, but we know we can beat anyone on our day," he said.
Marginson is waiting anxiously on the fitness of captain and centre-back Dave Chadwick, who is struggling with a strained hamstring.
Adam Turner will continue in his absence if he does not make it, while full-back Shaun Roscoe will deputise for the suspended Bradley Howard.
11:17pm Thursday 1st May 2008
FC United manager Karl Marginson believes sealing a third successive promotion would rank as the breakaway club's greatest ever achievement.
The Rebels face Skelmersdale United in the play-off final at Gigg Lane tomorrow with a place in the UniBond League Premier Division up for grabs.
And, in a campaign best by injury problems and a hectic fixture pile-up, the United boss admits it would eclipse any other success in the Reds' short history.
"With the amount of injuries we've had coupled with the fact that we've had to play 22 games in the last five weeks, promotion this season would be the best yet," said Marginson.
"It's the biggest game in the club's history. We've said it before but that's the beauty of being at a club which was only formed three years ago."
Goals from Adam Carden, Rory Patterson and Jerome Wright helped the Bury-based club, who have already won the Presidents Cup, overcome Bamber Bridge 3-2 in Wednesday night's semi-final clash. And Marginson believes his side will take confidence from that victory into the weekend's clash with the Merseysiders.
"It's going to be very even like the Bamber Bridge game, but we know we can beat anyone on our day," he said.
Marginson is waiting anxiously on the fitness of captain and centre-back Dave Chadwick, who is struggling with a strained hamstring.
Adam Turner will continue in his absence if he does not make it, while full-back Shaun Roscoe will deputise for the suspended Bradley Howard.
11:17pm Thursday 1st May 2008
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Tributes paid to FC founder Fred
Marie Burchill 1/ 5/2008
A DAD has paid an emotional tribute to the ‘football-mad’ son he used to do everything with.
Kevin Garner of Regan Avenue in Chorlton spoke of his sadness following the death of his 29-year-old son Fred Garner – who was a founding member of the breakaway football club, FC United.
Fred was found with a serious head injury at the foot of a fire escape outside the Rex Hotel in Whitley Bay just after 5am on Sunday, April 20.
The football fanatic had made the trip to the north east with his dad Kevin to watch FC United beat opponents Newcastle Blue Star 4-0.
Now Mr Garner, 53, has spoken of the close bond he shared with his son Fred who was ‘loved by everyone he knew’.
Mr Garner said: "Fred was such a happy-go-lucky lad, he just wanted to have fun. He was really popular and was loved by everyone who knew him.
"We used to do everything together, we worked together, went to the football together and watched horse-racing.
"We both had season tickets at Manchester United for 15 years before Glazer’s take-over, that’s when Fred helped to set up FC United.
"I am really into horse-racing and used to go by myself before Fred was old enough.
"I would come back and tell him all about it and he couldn’t wait to get there with me. We went all over to the races, including Ireland and Paris.
"We both followed FC United everywhere too. The team was very important to Fred, he was really passionate about them."
It is thought that Fred – who worked with his dad in the gas industry – may have fallen on the fire escape at the Rex Hotel, suffering a bang to the back of his head.
Earlier he had been watching a Manchester United match in the bar of the hotel with his dad.
Mr Garner decided to go to bed at midnight while Fred made his way to the hotel’s nightclub, which was open until 3am.
Fred was operated on for six hours at Newcastle General Hospital following the incident to remove blood clots from his brain, but to no avail.
The 29-year-old had lived in Chorlton for all of his life.
He was born in Withington Hospital and went to Chorlton C of E primary School and then Oakwood High School.
He lived with his mum, Carol, and dad Kevin on Regan Avenue up until a year ago, when he bought his own flat just off Edge Lane.
Footballers and more than 1,500 FC United fans paid tribute to Fred by holding a minute’s silence at their match against Woodley Sports last week.
Mr Garner said: "It was a really touching moment, everybody observed the silence and about 40 members of our family turned up too.
"Fred had so many friends. He used to go out to The Lounge in Chorlton, but after buying his flat he started staying in more so he could pay for his mortgage."
Northumbria Police said Fred’s death is not being treated as suspicious.
A DAD has paid an emotional tribute to the ‘football-mad’ son he used to do everything with.
Kevin Garner of Regan Avenue in Chorlton spoke of his sadness following the death of his 29-year-old son Fred Garner – who was a founding member of the breakaway football club, FC United.
Fred was found with a serious head injury at the foot of a fire escape outside the Rex Hotel in Whitley Bay just after 5am on Sunday, April 20.
The football fanatic had made the trip to the north east with his dad Kevin to watch FC United beat opponents Newcastle Blue Star 4-0.
Now Mr Garner, 53, has spoken of the close bond he shared with his son Fred who was ‘loved by everyone he knew’.
Mr Garner said: "Fred was such a happy-go-lucky lad, he just wanted to have fun. He was really popular and was loved by everyone who knew him.
"We used to do everything together, we worked together, went to the football together and watched horse-racing.
"We both had season tickets at Manchester United for 15 years before Glazer’s take-over, that’s when Fred helped to set up FC United.
"I am really into horse-racing and used to go by myself before Fred was old enough.
"I would come back and tell him all about it and he couldn’t wait to get there with me. We went all over to the races, including Ireland and Paris.
"We both followed FC United everywhere too. The team was very important to Fred, he was really passionate about them."
It is thought that Fred – who worked with his dad in the gas industry – may have fallen on the fire escape at the Rex Hotel, suffering a bang to the back of his head.
Earlier he had been watching a Manchester United match in the bar of the hotel with his dad.
Mr Garner decided to go to bed at midnight while Fred made his way to the hotel’s nightclub, which was open until 3am.
Fred was operated on for six hours at Newcastle General Hospital following the incident to remove blood clots from his brain, but to no avail.
The 29-year-old had lived in Chorlton for all of his life.
He was born in Withington Hospital and went to Chorlton C of E primary School and then Oakwood High School.
He lived with his mum, Carol, and dad Kevin on Regan Avenue up until a year ago, when he bought his own flat just off Edge Lane.
Footballers and more than 1,500 FC United fans paid tribute to Fred by holding a minute’s silence at their match against Woodley Sports last week.
Mr Garner said: "It was a really touching moment, everybody observed the silence and about 40 members of our family turned up too.
"Fred had so many friends. He used to go out to The Lounge in Chorlton, but after buying his flat he started staying in more so he could pay for his mortgage."
Northumbria Police said Fred’s death is not being treated as suspicious.
Skelmersdale in play off final
Thursday, May 01, 2008
SKEM United are to play FC United in the UniBond League Division One North play off final this Saturday (May 3) at Gigg Lane at 3pm.
Skem booked their place in the final with a 3-0 win over Curzon Ashton, with a brace from George Donnelly and a third from Anthony Murt.
Manager Tommy Lawson is in a confident mood ahead of Saturday's game against FC United of Manchester.
Speaking after the game last night, Tommy said: "In many ways it is fitting that the 2nd and 3rd placed teams are contesting the play-off final.
"FC United played with plenty of confidence against Bamber Bridge, but tired considerably towards the end of the game, but considering the run-in they've had towards the end of the season it's hardly surprising.
"It's going to be a tough game in front of a huge biased crowd, but at the same time it's going to be played in a fantastic atmosphere.
"Their supporters were fantastic last night, but I'm sure our supporters albeit on a smaller scale will be able to match them in terms of passion.
"The club has come a long way in a short space of time, and this season has been tremendous for all those concerned with the club.
"We have proved that we can compete with the best teams in the league, and against FC United the honours are even going into Saturday's contest with one win a piece and a draw.
"I'm sure both clubs will pay each other the greatest of respect, but I know that our players are capable of beating the favourites."
Frank Hughes, managing director for Skelmersdale United Football Club, said: “We are delighted to get to the final. It is going to be a tough gig for us at Gigg Lane. But it is great for the town and great for the club to get this far.
“It will be squeaky bum time on Saturday. It is a good way to finish the season and we could be 90 minutes or 120 minutes from the UniBond Premier.”
It's pay on the gate: £7-50 adults; £4 concessions; £2 under 18's and unwaged.
A coach will leave for the game from Skem’s home ground at 12pm. For more information contact Frank Hughes on 07766054548 or Paul Griffiths on 0797 673 8551.
SKEM United are to play FC United in the UniBond League Division One North play off final this Saturday (May 3) at Gigg Lane at 3pm.
Skem booked their place in the final with a 3-0 win over Curzon Ashton, with a brace from George Donnelly and a third from Anthony Murt.
Manager Tommy Lawson is in a confident mood ahead of Saturday's game against FC United of Manchester.
Speaking after the game last night, Tommy said: "In many ways it is fitting that the 2nd and 3rd placed teams are contesting the play-off final.
"FC United played with plenty of confidence against Bamber Bridge, but tired considerably towards the end of the game, but considering the run-in they've had towards the end of the season it's hardly surprising.
"It's going to be a tough game in front of a huge biased crowd, but at the same time it's going to be played in a fantastic atmosphere.
"Their supporters were fantastic last night, but I'm sure our supporters albeit on a smaller scale will be able to match them in terms of passion.
"The club has come a long way in a short space of time, and this season has been tremendous for all those concerned with the club.
"We have proved that we can compete with the best teams in the league, and against FC United the honours are even going into Saturday's contest with one win a piece and a draw.
"I'm sure both clubs will pay each other the greatest of respect, but I know that our players are capable of beating the favourites."
Frank Hughes, managing director for Skelmersdale United Football Club, said: “We are delighted to get to the final. It is going to be a tough gig for us at Gigg Lane. But it is great for the town and great for the club to get this far.
“It will be squeaky bum time on Saturday. It is a good way to finish the season and we could be 90 minutes or 120 minutes from the UniBond Premier.”
It's pay on the gate: £7-50 adults; £4 concessions; £2 under 18's and unwaged.
A coach will leave for the game from Skem’s home ground at 12pm. For more information contact Frank Hughes on 07766054548 or Paul Griffiths on 0797 673 8551.
Black on mission to sink United
By Rob Batiste
MANCHESTER UNITED’S second side are in the sights of Ryan-Zico Black, the Guernsey semi-pro.
Tonight at Gigg Lane, the home of Bury, Black expects to line up in the Bamber Bridge side aiming to deny FC United in the semi-finals of the Unibond First Division North promotion play-offs.
A crowd of up to 5,000 is expected, the vast majority the followers of FC United, the breakaway side born out of the disgruntlement of the Glazers’ takeover of Man. United.
Black, now 26, moved to Bamber Bridge from Lancaster City a few weeks ago and is confident his new club can spring a surprise today.
April 30, 2008 at 2:30 pm
MANCHESTER UNITED’S second side are in the sights of Ryan-Zico Black, the Guernsey semi-pro.
Tonight at Gigg Lane, the home of Bury, Black expects to line up in the Bamber Bridge side aiming to deny FC United in the semi-finals of the Unibond First Division North promotion play-offs.
A crowd of up to 5,000 is expected, the vast majority the followers of FC United, the breakaway side born out of the disgruntlement of the Glazers’ takeover of Man. United.
Black, now 26, moved to Bamber Bridge from Lancaster City a few weeks ago and is confident his new club can spring a surprise today.
April 30, 2008 at 2:30 pm
We fear no-one
May 1 2008
by Philip Kirkbride, Skelmersdale Advertiser
SKELMERSDALE United go into Saturday’s Unibond First Division North play-off final with boss Tommy Lawson in fearless mood.
United booked their place in the promotion finale with a resounding 3-0 win over Curzon Ashton on Tuesday night.
Skem’s opponent’s in the weekend’s winner-takes-all clash was determined last night in the match between FC United and Bamber Bridge, but Lawson is not worried by either team.
He said: “To be honest I don’t care which team we get in the final - I just say bring it on.
“Whoever we get we have got no reason to fear anyone because if we are on our game then we are capable of beating any side.”
Consecut ive wins against Curzon Ashton have now given Lawson’s troops a shot a winning a ticket to the UniBond Premier Division.
Lawson has pinpointed their late surge back to form down to one thing.
He said: “Our resurgence goes hand in glove with getting players back. If we hadn’t lost players like Georgie Donnelly then who knows what might have happened.
“The squad is now more competitive and it doesn’t matter who you are, any club is going to miss their key players.
“All the lads have pulled together on and off the pitch and we are now full of confidence.
“We’ve got a young side but the cup defeat to Eastwood has provided the lads with an experience which is really helping us push on for the big prize of promotion.”
Against either of their potential final opponents, Skem have an excellent record this campaign in the six encounters they have had.
Two emphatic wins and a draw against Bamber Bridge and a win, loss and draw against FC United hold Lawson’s side in good stead come Saturday.
Lawson added: “We’re pretty much even with FC United this season but I think we probably have the edge over Bamber Bridge because we beat them well in the last game.”
by Philip Kirkbride, Skelmersdale Advertiser
SKELMERSDALE United go into Saturday’s Unibond First Division North play-off final with boss Tommy Lawson in fearless mood.
United booked their place in the promotion finale with a resounding 3-0 win over Curzon Ashton on Tuesday night.
Skem’s opponent’s in the weekend’s winner-takes-all clash was determined last night in the match between FC United and Bamber Bridge, but Lawson is not worried by either team.
He said: “To be honest I don’t care which team we get in the final - I just say bring it on.
“Whoever we get we have got no reason to fear anyone because if we are on our game then we are capable of beating any side.”
Consecut ive wins against Curzon Ashton have now given Lawson’s troops a shot a winning a ticket to the UniBond Premier Division.
Lawson has pinpointed their late surge back to form down to one thing.
He said: “Our resurgence goes hand in glove with getting players back. If we hadn’t lost players like Georgie Donnelly then who knows what might have happened.
“The squad is now more competitive and it doesn’t matter who you are, any club is going to miss their key players.
“All the lads have pulled together on and off the pitch and we are now full of confidence.
“We’ve got a young side but the cup defeat to Eastwood has provided the lads with an experience which is really helping us push on for the big prize of promotion.”
Against either of their potential final opponents, Skem have an excellent record this campaign in the six encounters they have had.
Two emphatic wins and a draw against Bamber Bridge and a win, loss and draw against FC United hold Lawson’s side in good stead come Saturday.
Lawson added: “We’re pretty much even with FC United this season but I think we probably have the edge over Bamber Bridge because we beat them well in the last game.”
Brig battle bravely
A spirited fightback was not enough to keep Bamber Bridge's promotion dream alive at Bury last night as they lost 3-2 against FC United.
On a night when the Champions League took centre stage, Brig's season ended in a typically-feisty play-off semi-final battle that proudly flew the flag for UniBond League football.
United, pipped by Bradford Park Avenue in the fight for automatic promotion from the First Division North, started favourites in front of a voracious 'home' crowd at Gigg Lane.
Yet the hosts were nervous in the first quarter, with Brig on top and looking likely to cause an upset.
After dependable defender Adam Tong cut out an early Adam Carden and Jerome Wright raid, Brig took the upper hand, with midfielder Tom Ince soon proving a nuisance.
In the best visitors' attack, Brig top scorer Ryan Salmon's deflected strike hit the woodwork after a snaking Ince run and fine lay-off.
Ince's follow-up from a resultant Alex Porter corner was then gathered by keeper Sam Ashton, while Nicky Platt came close at the other end from a floated free-kick.
Neil Zarac was unlucky with an audacious lob that struck the woodwork again, and on 22 minutes an FC United breakthrough arrived – against the run of play.
Adam CARDEN's one-two with skipper Rory Patterson led to a right-wing raid and a powerful finish to beat advancing keeper Terry McCormick.
United's belief grew, the Carden brothers – Adam and Simon – plus Platt were denied as Brig struggled to clear.
Ince's first touch was poor after a mislaid pass at the other end gave Brig hope, and on 38 minutes a sweeping United counter-attack led to a second home goal.
This time, Simon Carden started the move, putting Platt away, a quick pass then finding Adam Carden before a square ball wrong-footed McCormick and gave PATTERSON an empty net to fire into.
Patterson twice more came close and Stuart Rudd fired wide with an easier finish before the break, Brig just happy to get in only two goals adrift.
Yet Entwistle then sacrificed Ince and Martin Crowder, and replacements Ryan-Zico Black and Mark Edmeads proved to be catalysts for the comeback.
Within six minutes of the restart Brig halved the arrears, a Black free-kick leading to ZARAC bundling in from close range as United struggled to defend.
Ashton denied Zarac in a one-on-one then cut out a deep Porter corner, yet Brig's positive approach led to inevitable gaps and Tong had to be at his best to stop one of many Adam Carden right-wing raids, while Patterson and Rudd again fired wide with good chances.
Salmon came close to converting from a Porter overhead delivery, and from the counter-attack WRIGHT fired in a third from the left of the area on 69 minutes.
Brig battled on, with Salmon inches wide after another neat Porter pass before ZARAC turned and shot home a sublime second strike on 79 minutes.
Patterson hit the crossbar with his next effort, while Black and Tong might have done better as Brig countered, and no one could get on the end of an Edmeads cross that proved to be the final chance of an often fiery but always absorbing clash.
BAMBER BRIDGE: McCormick, Steel, Crowder (Edmeads 46), Williams, Tong, Bowen (Fleming 75), Ince (Black 46), Mahoney, Zarac, Salmon, Porter.
Referee: GM Brittain.
Attendance: 1,820.
Last Updated: 01 May 2008 10:15 AM
On a night when the Champions League took centre stage, Brig's season ended in a typically-feisty play-off semi-final battle that proudly flew the flag for UniBond League football.
United, pipped by Bradford Park Avenue in the fight for automatic promotion from the First Division North, started favourites in front of a voracious 'home' crowd at Gigg Lane.
Yet the hosts were nervous in the first quarter, with Brig on top and looking likely to cause an upset.
After dependable defender Adam Tong cut out an early Adam Carden and Jerome Wright raid, Brig took the upper hand, with midfielder Tom Ince soon proving a nuisance.
In the best visitors' attack, Brig top scorer Ryan Salmon's deflected strike hit the woodwork after a snaking Ince run and fine lay-off.
Ince's follow-up from a resultant Alex Porter corner was then gathered by keeper Sam Ashton, while Nicky Platt came close at the other end from a floated free-kick.
Neil Zarac was unlucky with an audacious lob that struck the woodwork again, and on 22 minutes an FC United breakthrough arrived – against the run of play.
Adam CARDEN's one-two with skipper Rory Patterson led to a right-wing raid and a powerful finish to beat advancing keeper Terry McCormick.
United's belief grew, the Carden brothers – Adam and Simon – plus Platt were denied as Brig struggled to clear.
Ince's first touch was poor after a mislaid pass at the other end gave Brig hope, and on 38 minutes a sweeping United counter-attack led to a second home goal.
This time, Simon Carden started the move, putting Platt away, a quick pass then finding Adam Carden before a square ball wrong-footed McCormick and gave PATTERSON an empty net to fire into.
Patterson twice more came close and Stuart Rudd fired wide with an easier finish before the break, Brig just happy to get in only two goals adrift.
Yet Entwistle then sacrificed Ince and Martin Crowder, and replacements Ryan-Zico Black and Mark Edmeads proved to be catalysts for the comeback.
Within six minutes of the restart Brig halved the arrears, a Black free-kick leading to ZARAC bundling in from close range as United struggled to defend.
Ashton denied Zarac in a one-on-one then cut out a deep Porter corner, yet Brig's positive approach led to inevitable gaps and Tong had to be at his best to stop one of many Adam Carden right-wing raids, while Patterson and Rudd again fired wide with good chances.
Salmon came close to converting from a Porter overhead delivery, and from the counter-attack WRIGHT fired in a third from the left of the area on 69 minutes.
Brig battled on, with Salmon inches wide after another neat Porter pass before ZARAC turned and shot home a sublime second strike on 79 minutes.
Patterson hit the crossbar with his next effort, while Black and Tong might have done better as Brig countered, and no one could get on the end of an Edmeads cross that proved to be the final chance of an often fiery but always absorbing clash.
BAMBER BRIDGE: McCormick, Steel, Crowder (Edmeads 46), Williams, Tong, Bowen (Fleming 75), Ince (Black 46), Mahoney, Zarac, Salmon, Porter.
Referee: GM Brittain.
Attendance: 1,820.
Last Updated: 01 May 2008 10:15 AM
Rebels' promotion charge
1/ 5/2008
FC UNITED kept their hopes of a third successive promotion alive by beating Bamber Bridge 3-2 in a thrilling play-off semi-final at Gigg Lane.
Karl Marginson's side will now face Skelmersdale in the final on Saturday.
United took a 2-0 half-time lead thanks to Adam Carden and Rory Patterson. But two goals from Neil Zarac ensured a second-half full of tension.
Ultimately Jerome Wright's 68th-minute strike proved to be decisive, sending the crowd into raptures.
After riding their luck early on with Ryan Salmon clipping the bar and Zarac firing narrowly wide, United took control.
Their opening goal, on 22 minutes was a move of real quality as Patterson's first-time pass completely opened up the defence for Carden to put the Rebels ahead.
Carden turned provider on 32 minutes when he unselfishly squared to Patterson who had the easiest of tap-ins.
Zarac popped up to ensure it wouldn't be a stroll for United but then Wright sewed it all up.
FC UNITED kept their hopes of a third successive promotion alive by beating Bamber Bridge 3-2 in a thrilling play-off semi-final at Gigg Lane.
Karl Marginson's side will now face Skelmersdale in the final on Saturday.
United took a 2-0 half-time lead thanks to Adam Carden and Rory Patterson. But two goals from Neil Zarac ensured a second-half full of tension.
Ultimately Jerome Wright's 68th-minute strike proved to be decisive, sending the crowd into raptures.
After riding their luck early on with Ryan Salmon clipping the bar and Zarac firing narrowly wide, United took control.
Their opening goal, on 22 minutes was a move of real quality as Patterson's first-time pass completely opened up the defence for Carden to put the Rebels ahead.
Carden turned provider on 32 minutes when he unselfishly squared to Patterson who had the easiest of tap-ins.
Zarac popped up to ensure it wouldn't be a stroll for United but then Wright sewed it all up.
FC United edge it
Source: Non League Daily
Bamber Bridge's best season for many years came to an abrupt end after a narrow defeat in Wednesday night`s UniBond League Division One North play-off semi final to FC United of Manchester in front of a crowd of 1,820 at Gigg Lane.
Perhaps slightly against the run of play, FC United took the lead through Adam Carden on 22 minutes.
Top scorer Rory Patterson (pictured) extended United`s lead after 38 minutes.
However, Brig`s introduction of Ryan-Zico Black after the break had an immediate effect as it was his free kick that set up Neil Zarac to reduce the arrears on 51 minutes.
But Brig`s hopes of a revival were quashed after 69 minutes when winger Jerome Wright netted to regain United`s two-goal cushion.
With 11 minutes remaining the visitors pulled another back with Zarac again the scorer, causing a few nervy moments before the final whistle heralded FC United`s final appearances against Skelmersdale United on Saturday.
Bamber Bridge's best season for many years came to an abrupt end after a narrow defeat in Wednesday night`s UniBond League Division One North play-off semi final to FC United of Manchester in front of a crowd of 1,820 at Gigg Lane.
Perhaps slightly against the run of play, FC United took the lead through Adam Carden on 22 minutes.
Top scorer Rory Patterson (pictured) extended United`s lead after 38 minutes.
However, Brig`s introduction of Ryan-Zico Black after the break had an immediate effect as it was his free kick that set up Neil Zarac to reduce the arrears on 51 minutes.
But Brig`s hopes of a revival were quashed after 69 minutes when winger Jerome Wright netted to regain United`s two-goal cushion.
With 11 minutes remaining the visitors pulled another back with Zarac again the scorer, causing a few nervy moments before the final whistle heralded FC United`s final appearances against Skelmersdale United on Saturday.
FC United of Manchester 3 Bamber Bridge 2
01 May 2008 12:10 AM
BAMBER Bridge's best season in the past decade has come to an abrupt end after a narrow defeat in the play-off semi-finals to FC United
Phil Entwistle's young side had started the game well with striker Ryan Salmon watching his deflected shot rebound off the crossbar.
Meanwhile his strike partner Neil Zarac had two opportunities to hand Brig the lead before FC started to string to gether some great passes and play.
Against the run of play FC United took the lead with a well-taken goal.
Swift passing and a great flick by Nicky Platt set up Adam Carden to shoot into the top left corner of the goal on 22 minutes.
Brig's best chance of the first half came when young winger Tom Ince pounced on a mistake by the FC defence and was through on goal only for his touch to let him down in the box.
The one man Phil Entwistle had described as a threat - Ryan Patterson extended FC United's lead when he slotted home into an empty goal on 37 minutes.
The introduction of Ryan-Zico Black after the interval had an immediate effect as it was free-kick set up a goal for Neil Zsrac to score his first goal for the club.
Brig's hopes of a revival were quashed when a mistake in defence by Adam Tong saw the ball break for winger Jerome Wright to regain a two goal cushion.
With 15 minutes remaining Brig through caution to the wind by using Tong's aerial power upfront.It had the desired effect as Neil Zarac grabbed his second goal of the night to give Brig hope.
In a controversial end to the game there was only three minutes of added time despite a few stoppages and injuries and it proved to be too little too late for Brig.
Brig: McCormick, Steel, Crowder (Edmead 46), Williams, Tong, Bowen (Fleming 74), Ince (Zico Black 45), Mahoney (D), Zarac, Salmon and Porter (C)
BAMBER Bridge's best season in the past decade has come to an abrupt end after a narrow defeat in the play-off semi-finals to FC United
Phil Entwistle's young side had started the game well with striker Ryan Salmon watching his deflected shot rebound off the crossbar.
Meanwhile his strike partner Neil Zarac had two opportunities to hand Brig the lead before FC started to string to gether some great passes and play.
Against the run of play FC United took the lead with a well-taken goal.
Swift passing and a great flick by Nicky Platt set up Adam Carden to shoot into the top left corner of the goal on 22 minutes.
Brig's best chance of the first half came when young winger Tom Ince pounced on a mistake by the FC defence and was through on goal only for his touch to let him down in the box.
The one man Phil Entwistle had described as a threat - Ryan Patterson extended FC United's lead when he slotted home into an empty goal on 37 minutes.
The introduction of Ryan-Zico Black after the interval had an immediate effect as it was free-kick set up a goal for Neil Zsrac to score his first goal for the club.
Brig's hopes of a revival were quashed when a mistake in defence by Adam Tong saw the ball break for winger Jerome Wright to regain a two goal cushion.
With 15 minutes remaining Brig through caution to the wind by using Tong's aerial power upfront.It had the desired effect as Neil Zarac grabbed his second goal of the night to give Brig hope.
In a controversial end to the game there was only three minutes of added time despite a few stoppages and injuries and it proved to be too little too late for Brig.
Brig: McCormick, Steel, Crowder (Edmead 46), Williams, Tong, Bowen (Fleming 74), Ince (Zico Black 45), Mahoney (D), Zarac, Salmon and Porter (C)
Rebels closing in on promotion
By Marc Higginson
FC United 3 Bamber Bridge 2
FC United booked a UniBond North play-off final date with Skelmersdale United on Saturday by disposing of Bamber Bridge in an entertaining encounter at Gigg Lane.
Adam Carden and Stuart Rudd gave Karl Marginson's men a half time lead, but Neil Zarac reduced the arrears early in the second half.
Jerome Wright looked to have sealed the victory, but Allan Fleming's 79th minute goal for the visitors meant it was a nervy finish for the rebels.
11:11pm Wednesday 30th April 2008
FC United 3 Bamber Bridge 2
FC United booked a UniBond North play-off final date with Skelmersdale United on Saturday by disposing of Bamber Bridge in an entertaining encounter at Gigg Lane.
Adam Carden and Stuart Rudd gave Karl Marginson's men a half time lead, but Neil Zarac reduced the arrears early in the second half.
Jerome Wright looked to have sealed the victory, but Allan Fleming's 79th minute goal for the visitors meant it was a nervy finish for the rebels.
11:11pm Wednesday 30th April 2008
United do not scare Entwistle
30 April 2008 9:58 AM
Defiant Phil Entwistle says Bamber Bridge are not running scared of red-hot promotion favourites FC United of Manchester.
Brig meet United at Gigg Lane tonight in a UniBond North play-off semi-final, with the winners meeting Skelmersdale United on Saturday.
Skelmersdale progressed to the final after a Georgie Donnelly double put them on their way to a 3-0 home win over Curzon Ashton last night, with Anthony Murt adding the final strike.
"Some people will have written us off already, but we can take great heart from our results against FC United this season," said Entwistle.
"We've drawn twice with FC United in the league and beat them at Irongate, so we've nothing to fear from them.
"The atmosphere should be sensational, and, with FC United expecting at least 5,000 at Gigg Lane, it will be very a hostile environment.
"I think that could help us, as that is going to pile all the expectation on Manchester.
"The game is a one-off, so it is all up for grabs.
"Bamber Bridge are the massive underdogs, but I've real faith in my lads.
"If we do it, then we'd be 90 minutes away from winning promotion to the UniBond Premier Division."
Brig clinched their place in the play-offs with a point at Clitheroe last weekend, following a 5-0 thrashing of play-off rivals Ossett Albion 48 hours earlier.
"That win at Ossett did it for us, and it was a super performance," added Entwistle.
"The pressure was on the lads for a big performance and they came up with the goods.
"I'm sure our fans will turn out in force again after the brilliant support they gave us at Ossett and Clitheroe.
"We've had a fantastic season, and we want to finish it in style by winning promotion."
Entwistle will gave fitness checks to Steve Brown and striker Sean O'Neil ahead of tonight's clash.
Defiant Phil Entwistle says Bamber Bridge are not running scared of red-hot promotion favourites FC United of Manchester.
Brig meet United at Gigg Lane tonight in a UniBond North play-off semi-final, with the winners meeting Skelmersdale United on Saturday.
Skelmersdale progressed to the final after a Georgie Donnelly double put them on their way to a 3-0 home win over Curzon Ashton last night, with Anthony Murt adding the final strike.
"Some people will have written us off already, but we can take great heart from our results against FC United this season," said Entwistle.
"We've drawn twice with FC United in the league and beat them at Irongate, so we've nothing to fear from them.
"The atmosphere should be sensational, and, with FC United expecting at least 5,000 at Gigg Lane, it will be very a hostile environment.
"I think that could help us, as that is going to pile all the expectation on Manchester.
"The game is a one-off, so it is all up for grabs.
"Bamber Bridge are the massive underdogs, but I've real faith in my lads.
"If we do it, then we'd be 90 minutes away from winning promotion to the UniBond Premier Division."
Brig clinched their place in the play-offs with a point at Clitheroe last weekend, following a 5-0 thrashing of play-off rivals Ossett Albion 48 hours earlier.
"That win at Ossett did it for us, and it was a super performance," added Entwistle.
"The pressure was on the lads for a big performance and they came up with the goods.
"I'm sure our fans will turn out in force again after the brilliant support they gave us at Ossett and Clitheroe.
"We've had a fantastic season, and we want to finish it in style by winning promotion."
Entwistle will gave fitness checks to Steve Brown and striker Sean O'Neil ahead of tonight's clash.
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