Source: MEN
FC United are to step up security when building work starts on their new stadium, after a spate of attacks.
As revealed by the M.E.N. last week, vandals used weedkiller to etch a protest in the turf of the Ronald Johnson Playing Fields, where they plan to move.
Attackers burnt out 10ft letters spelling out ‘No to FC Utd’ on the land in Moston, poured concrete into goal posts and sprayed anti-FC United graffiti on a container in an attack branded ‘pathetic’ by council chiefs.
The club have been given planning permission to build a 5,000-capacity stadium on the fields and had hoped to start work before the autumn.
But a residents’ group opposed to the £3.5m plans, Residents United Residents Association, is seeking a judicial review.
It issued papers to Manchester council, which has now responded. And it is now up to the group to decide whether to mount such a challenge at the High Court.
Andy Walsh, FC United general manager, said that similar attacks over the past 12-months have forced the club to set money aside for site security.
He said: “This is a small group of people and by no means reflective.
“Moston Juniors, the junior club who, until recently, played at the fields, have suffered considerable vandalism over the last 12 months.
“Unfortunately they could not afford a security provision on the site.
“When we go on the site we have earmarked provision for a security presence.
“It is sad that a small group of people would vandalise the facilities of a junior club.
“We will be able to offer them protection from those who seek to destroy facilities for young people to play sport.”
The M.E.N. understands that RURA now has until the end of September to consider the council’s response.
If it decides to press on, a judge will then be tasked with ruling whether its case carries enough weight to justify a judicial review. Annette McGovern, chair of RURA, said: “The council has responded and we are not going to back down. We will take this as far as we can.
“We believe that there are environmental issues and that the planning process was fundamentally flawed.”
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Witton Albion protect unbeaten record against fast-starters FC United of Manchester
Source: Northwich Guardian
Witton Albion v FC United of Manchester (Kick off 3pm)
Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Premier Division
Venue Help for Heroes Stadium
Referee Jonathan Hunt (Liverpool)
Admission Adults £9, Concessions (NUS/ OAP) £6, U15s £3, Armed Forces personnel Free (on production of valid ID)
Odds (Coral) Witton 8/5, Draw 12/5, FC United 5/4
Previous meeting Witton 2 FC United 1 (Northern Premier League Premier Division, January 24 2009)
Witton (from) Cooper (GK), Booth, Gardner, Glover, Harrison, Wood, Andrews, Cross, Fallon, Hancock, Schofield, Sheehan, Woolley, Buchan, Gahgan, Moseley, Stott, Tuck
Doubtful Cross (match fitness)
Injured Connors (calf), Shaw (ankle)
Suspended none
Disciplinary record (last season) Y32 R4
Top scorers Anthony Gardner, Shaun Tuck (both 2)
Title odds (SKY Bet) 40/1
Form (Past six home in league) W
Record (home) P1 W1 D0 L0 F2 A1 Pts 3
Record (overall) P3 W2 D1 L0 F5 A3 Pts7
FC United (from) Spencer (GK), Worsnop (GK), Anderson, Armstrong, Jacobs, Jones, Krou, Neville, Munroe, Stott, Birch, Cheetham, Cottrell, Grimshaw, Johnson, Platt, Roca, Wright, Amadi, Norton, Wolfenden
Doubtful none
Injured Giggs (broken foot)
Suspended none
Disciplinary record (last season) Y59 R7
Top scorer Michael Norton (3)
Title odds (Bet Victor) 9/2
Form (Past six away in league) W
Record (away) P1 W1 D0 L0 F4 A2 Pts3
Record (overall) P3 W3 D0 L0 F11 A4 Pts9
Match pointers
WITTON take on tomorrow, Monday, one of the five teams to have won each of its opening three league matches in FC United of Manchester.
The Rebels put four goals past Matlock Town on Saturday, meaning only Ashton United have scored more than Karl Marginson’s men in the season’s first seven days.
Seven different players have been on target for the Manchester men in that time.
Witton have a proud record to protect as well; a weekend draw at Worksop Town taking to 19 the number of league games without defeat since mid February.
Midfield pair Steve Connors (calf) and Joe Shaw (ankle) continues to convalesce, although Matt Cross may be named as a substitute after shaking off a calf strain.
Wide man Chris Gahgan is available again too.
The visitors have named the same starting line-up for each of their games so far, although midfielder Nick Platt featured for the first time this term as a substitute at the weekend.
Striker Kris Amadi, a new recruit from Ashton United, is yet to play though.
Two previous meetings with Witton have yielded 11 goals, including a 2-1 success for Albion in January 2009 when they last played at this level.
Witton Albion v FC United of Manchester (Kick off 3pm)
Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Premier Division
Venue Help for Heroes Stadium
Referee Jonathan Hunt (Liverpool)
Admission Adults £9, Concessions (NUS/ OAP) £6, U15s £3, Armed Forces personnel Free (on production of valid ID)
Odds (Coral) Witton 8/5, Draw 12/5, FC United 5/4
Previous meeting Witton 2 FC United 1 (Northern Premier League Premier Division, January 24 2009)
Witton (from) Cooper (GK), Booth, Gardner, Glover, Harrison, Wood, Andrews, Cross, Fallon, Hancock, Schofield, Sheehan, Woolley, Buchan, Gahgan, Moseley, Stott, Tuck
Doubtful Cross (match fitness)
Injured Connors (calf), Shaw (ankle)
Suspended none
Disciplinary record (last season) Y32 R4
Top scorers Anthony Gardner, Shaun Tuck (both 2)
Title odds (SKY Bet) 40/1
Form (Past six home in league) W
Record (home) P1 W1 D0 L0 F2 A1 Pts 3
Record (overall) P3 W2 D1 L0 F5 A3 Pts7
FC United (from) Spencer (GK), Worsnop (GK), Anderson, Armstrong, Jacobs, Jones, Krou, Neville, Munroe, Stott, Birch, Cheetham, Cottrell, Grimshaw, Johnson, Platt, Roca, Wright, Amadi, Norton, Wolfenden
Doubtful none
Injured Giggs (broken foot)
Suspended none
Disciplinary record (last season) Y59 R7
Top scorer Michael Norton (3)
Title odds (Bet Victor) 9/2
Form (Past six away in league) W
Record (away) P1 W1 D0 L0 F4 A2 Pts3
Record (overall) P3 W3 D0 L0 F11 A4 Pts9
Match pointers
WITTON take on tomorrow, Monday, one of the five teams to have won each of its opening three league matches in FC United of Manchester.
The Rebels put four goals past Matlock Town on Saturday, meaning only Ashton United have scored more than Karl Marginson’s men in the season’s first seven days.
Seven different players have been on target for the Manchester men in that time.
Witton have a proud record to protect as well; a weekend draw at Worksop Town taking to 19 the number of league games without defeat since mid February.
Midfield pair Steve Connors (calf) and Joe Shaw (ankle) continues to convalesce, although Matt Cross may be named as a substitute after shaking off a calf strain.
Wide man Chris Gahgan is available again too.
The visitors have named the same starting line-up for each of their games so far, although midfielder Nick Platt featured for the first time this term as a substitute at the weekend.
Striker Kris Amadi, a new recruit from Ashton United, is yet to play though.
Two previous meetings with Witton have yielded 11 goals, including a 2-1 success for Albion in January 2009 when they last played at this level.
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Cammell Laird must take FA Cup chance and book tie with FC United of Manchester, says manager Read More http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/amateur-football/2012/08/25/cammell-laird-must-take-fa-cup-chance-and-book-tie-with-fc-united-of-manchester-says-manager-100252-31693297/#ixzz24pt5gPeh
Source: Liverpool Echo
CAMMELL LAIRD can book an exciting FA Cup tie with FC United of Manchester – if they overcome an unknown side from Hull.
Tony Sullivan’s men make the trip to Barton Town Old Boys this afternoon in the preliminary round stage of the competition.
Sullivan says not only are the finances on offer from a potential game at Gigg Lane a major incentive but the prospect of playing against such a well supported non-league side should also serve as real motivation for his players.
Laird have started the Evo-Stik First Division North season with a draw and a defeat with Jamie Henders netting four times.
But Sullivan has challenged the striker to maintain his form whilst asking the squad to make the most of their FA Cup opportunity today.
“We are not going to take Barton lightly at all,” said Sullivan.
“We are going there with a game plan to try and get something out of the game.
“We will properly prepare and hopefully get through to the next round.
“Potentially the next round could be a financially fantastic reward for the club. Going to FC United is the carrot at the end of today’s game.
“It is a fixture that can only help the club.
“Yes, it would be great for my CV but more importantly, what an opportunity for the players to play in front of over 1,000 fans at Gigg Lane.
“Victory in the FA Cup can kick start a season as well.
“Before that next big tie, everyone is playing for the shirt.”
Henders is likely to start up front for Lairds this afternoon following his four goals in two games, but Sullivan says he cannot rest on his laurels.
“Jamie has had a great start to the season,” he said.
“Jamie has got fantastic ability but he will be the first to tell you that he has not always been the player we know he can be.
“He has started the season on fire but we expect more of that.
“He has shown everyone his capabilities in the first two games but he has got to do that for the 44 games over the course of the season.
“He has a good attitude and hopefully this form will continue.”
Also in the FA Cup: Padiham v Burscough; AFC Liverpool v Cables and Irlam v Runcorn Town.
Read More http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/amateur-football/2012/08/25/cammell-laird-must-take-fa-cup-chance-and-book-tie-with-fc-united-of-manchester-says-manager-100252-31693297/#ixzz24ptF7Uvq
CAMMELL LAIRD can book an exciting FA Cup tie with FC United of Manchester – if they overcome an unknown side from Hull.
Tony Sullivan’s men make the trip to Barton Town Old Boys this afternoon in the preliminary round stage of the competition.
Sullivan says not only are the finances on offer from a potential game at Gigg Lane a major incentive but the prospect of playing against such a well supported non-league side should also serve as real motivation for his players.
Laird have started the Evo-Stik First Division North season with a draw and a defeat with Jamie Henders netting four times.
But Sullivan has challenged the striker to maintain his form whilst asking the squad to make the most of their FA Cup opportunity today.
“We are not going to take Barton lightly at all,” said Sullivan.
“We are going there with a game plan to try and get something out of the game.
“We will properly prepare and hopefully get through to the next round.
“Potentially the next round could be a financially fantastic reward for the club. Going to FC United is the carrot at the end of today’s game.
“It is a fixture that can only help the club.
“Yes, it would be great for my CV but more importantly, what an opportunity for the players to play in front of over 1,000 fans at Gigg Lane.
“Victory in the FA Cup can kick start a season as well.
“Before that next big tie, everyone is playing for the shirt.”
Henders is likely to start up front for Lairds this afternoon following his four goals in two games, but Sullivan says he cannot rest on his laurels.
“Jamie has had a great start to the season,” he said.
“Jamie has got fantastic ability but he will be the first to tell you that he has not always been the player we know he can be.
“He has started the season on fire but we expect more of that.
“He has shown everyone his capabilities in the first two games but he has got to do that for the 44 games over the course of the season.
“He has a good attitude and hopefully this form will continue.”
Also in the FA Cup: Padiham v Burscough; AFC Liverpool v Cables and Irlam v Runcorn Town.
Read More http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/amateur-football/2012/08/25/cammell-laird-must-take-fa-cup-chance-and-book-tie-with-fc-united-of-manchester-says-manager-100252-31693297/#ixzz24ptF7Uvq
Friday, August 24, 2012
FC United's proposed new ground in Moston vandalised in weedkiller protest
Source: MEN
Vandals have used weedkiller to etch a protest against FC United's move to Moston into the turf of their proposed new home.
The attackers burnt 10ft letters spelling out 'No to FC Utd' in the grass of the Ronald Johnson Playing fields.
They went on to pour concrete into holes drilled for goal posts and spray anti-FC United grafitti on a storage container in a spree branded 'pathetic' by council chiefs.
The site is set to become a 5,000-capacity stadium for FC United, which was formed in protest of the Glazer family's ownership of Manchester United.
It was previously home to amateurs Moston Juniors, who are currently playing their matches elsewhere after similar attacks in recent months.
FC United were given planning permission to build their £3.5m complex on the site last October.
A residents group opposed to the stadium, Residents United Residents Association, have launched a bid to force a judicial review.
The M.E.N. revealed that they had served papers on town hall bosses last month.
Officials from FC United had hoped to start work on the project this summer and be in the ground for next season.
They had hoped to turn around some of the pitches to allow Moston Juniors to carry on playing there while work was going on.
But the delays caused by the challenge, coupled with the repeated attacks, have led to the club, which has 15 teams ranging from Under 7s to Under 18s, to move elsewhere.
Matches are currently being played in Blackley, Failsworth and at Heaton Park.
A spokesman for Moston Juniors said they were saddened by the attacks.
He said: “We are concerned about the continuing threat of vandalism and graffiti.
“It is disturbing that there are people from the local community who feel it is necessary to cause further damage to the facilities.
“It would be better if they talked to the partners involved to achieve a solution that is acceptable to all of those concerned.”
Local councillor Luthfur Rahman said: "There is no excuse for this kind of vandalism.
“Damaging a pitch used by one of the biggest amateur junior football teams in Manchester is just pathetic."
FC United declined to comment on the attack.
Vandals have used weedkiller to etch a protest against FC United's move to Moston into the turf of their proposed new home.
The attackers burnt 10ft letters spelling out 'No to FC Utd' in the grass of the Ronald Johnson Playing fields.
They went on to pour concrete into holes drilled for goal posts and spray anti-FC United grafitti on a storage container in a spree branded 'pathetic' by council chiefs.
The site is set to become a 5,000-capacity stadium for FC United, which was formed in protest of the Glazer family's ownership of Manchester United.
It was previously home to amateurs Moston Juniors, who are currently playing their matches elsewhere after similar attacks in recent months.
FC United were given planning permission to build their £3.5m complex on the site last October.
A residents group opposed to the stadium, Residents United Residents Association, have launched a bid to force a judicial review.
The M.E.N. revealed that they had served papers on town hall bosses last month.
Officials from FC United had hoped to start work on the project this summer and be in the ground for next season.
They had hoped to turn around some of the pitches to allow Moston Juniors to carry on playing there while work was going on.
But the delays caused by the challenge, coupled with the repeated attacks, have led to the club, which has 15 teams ranging from Under 7s to Under 18s, to move elsewhere.
Matches are currently being played in Blackley, Failsworth and at Heaton Park.
A spokesman for Moston Juniors said they were saddened by the attacks.
He said: “We are concerned about the continuing threat of vandalism and graffiti.
“It is disturbing that there are people from the local community who feel it is necessary to cause further damage to the facilities.
“It would be better if they talked to the partners involved to achieve a solution that is acceptable to all of those concerned.”
Local councillor Luthfur Rahman said: "There is no excuse for this kind of vandalism.
“Damaging a pitch used by one of the biggest amateur junior football teams in Manchester is just pathetic."
FC United declined to comment on the attack.
Grantham Town’s opening game bumper crowd ‘had their money’s worth’
Source: Grantham Journal
A HUGE attendance witnessed Grantham Town’s return to the Northern Premier League Premier Division at The Meres on Saturday.
A crowd of more than 1,200 saw the Gingerbreads battle valiantly against one of the title favourites, FC United of Manchester. The Manchester side brought more than 700 fans who sang and chanted throughout the 90 minutes.
Grantham enjoyed what joint manager Wayne Hallcro termed a “dream start” early on to send the home crowd wild, but it was not to be Town’s day. Back on level terms, FC United went in front after the break after the home keeper was red carded. The match ended 4-2.
Hallcro said: “Looking at what we’ve achieved, there’s a lot of plus points. Hopefully people have had there money’s worth today. Young lads coming through the gates have probably never seen that atmosphere up here before. It was all good apart from the result.”
Co-boss Jimmy Albans re-iterated Hallcro’s sentiments: “This is what we’ve wanted for years. That’s the type of crowd we and the players want to play in front of. I hope they liked what they saw.”
Following the opening game defeat, the Gingerbreads immediately got back on track with a 1-0 win at Stafford Rangers on Tuesday night – finishing again with just 10 men.
Albans said: “Stafford was more like the week to week game we will be facing for the rest of the season. Our communication and togetherness will take us a long way this season. That showed by playing for 50 minutes with 10 men.
“With the way we set up, if we do get a man sent off, we can just drop one of the front two deeper into midfield and continue to play the same way from the back. On the night we deserved the goal and now need to keep on playing the same way and keep our good form.
“In any season, the first three points are always the hardest to get. Now we have got them, it doesn’t take any pressure off Wayne and me, but it does lift it from the players. There were signs of a lack of pressure on Tuesday night. We played a very relaxed game.”
Grantham can expect a tough encounter at Chorley tomorrow, despite the Lancashire side losing in midweek. Albans said that changes would be necessary due to a large amount of absentees – Rhys Lewis, Damien Magee, Gio Carchedi, Connor Higginson, Ash Robinson – with Martin Ball doubtful.
Albans said: “We are all looking forward to the game. We wanted to be here and everyone is enjoying every minute of it. The pressure is off us, but is on the opposition. Our consistency and style of play makes it difficult for opponents and easier for us.”
l Match reports on page 78 with more on the FC United game on page 4.
A HUGE attendance witnessed Grantham Town’s return to the Northern Premier League Premier Division at The Meres on Saturday.
A crowd of more than 1,200 saw the Gingerbreads battle valiantly against one of the title favourites, FC United of Manchester. The Manchester side brought more than 700 fans who sang and chanted throughout the 90 minutes.
Grantham enjoyed what joint manager Wayne Hallcro termed a “dream start” early on to send the home crowd wild, but it was not to be Town’s day. Back on level terms, FC United went in front after the break after the home keeper was red carded. The match ended 4-2.
Hallcro said: “Looking at what we’ve achieved, there’s a lot of plus points. Hopefully people have had there money’s worth today. Young lads coming through the gates have probably never seen that atmosphere up here before. It was all good apart from the result.”
Co-boss Jimmy Albans re-iterated Hallcro’s sentiments: “This is what we’ve wanted for years. That’s the type of crowd we and the players want to play in front of. I hope they liked what they saw.”
Following the opening game defeat, the Gingerbreads immediately got back on track with a 1-0 win at Stafford Rangers on Tuesday night – finishing again with just 10 men.
Albans said: “Stafford was more like the week to week game we will be facing for the rest of the season. Our communication and togetherness will take us a long way this season. That showed by playing for 50 minutes with 10 men.
“With the way we set up, if we do get a man sent off, we can just drop one of the front two deeper into midfield and continue to play the same way from the back. On the night we deserved the goal and now need to keep on playing the same way and keep our good form.
“In any season, the first three points are always the hardest to get. Now we have got them, it doesn’t take any pressure off Wayne and me, but it does lift it from the players. There were signs of a lack of pressure on Tuesday night. We played a very relaxed game.”
Grantham can expect a tough encounter at Chorley tomorrow, despite the Lancashire side losing in midweek. Albans said that changes would be necessary due to a large amount of absentees – Rhys Lewis, Damien Magee, Gio Carchedi, Connor Higginson, Ash Robinson – with Martin Ball doubtful.
Albans said: “We are all looking forward to the game. We wanted to be here and everyone is enjoying every minute of it. The pressure is off us, but is on the opposition. Our consistency and style of play makes it difficult for opponents and easier for us.”
l Match reports on page 78 with more on the FC United game on page 4.
Catalogue of injuries hit Matlock hard ahead of trip to FC United
Source: Derby Telegraph
IT is a Matlock Town side missing several first-team players who manager Mark Atkins will take to FC United of Manchester tomorrow.
The Gladiators' catalogue of injuries began even before the first game, when central defender Laurence Gaughan tore his hamstring, leading to a potential eight weeks on the sidelines.
Full-back Micky Harcourt was forced off after 20 minutes in the 5-0 defeat by Nantwich Town with a foot injury, then X-rays revealed that substitute Ben Algar had a broken metatarsal.
Midfielder James Ashmore lasted only eight minutes at Frickley Athletic on Tuesday before being carried off with ankle ligament damage and faces a couple of months' lay-off.
"Thank goodness we've got a big squad because it looks like we'll need it," said Atkins.
"That's why I brought all the lads in that I did, particularly with the hectic start to the season.
"We've also got Kris Bowler with a rib injury, Lewis McMahon has a bad ankle and Joe Leesley an Achilles knock."
Gareth Davies and Nathan Joynes will be added to the squad for tomorrow's trip to Gigg Lane and the home fixture against Rushall Olympic on Bank Holiday Monday (3pm).
Both opponents have 100% records after the opening two games, while Tuesday's 2-1 success at Frickley Athletic, achieved when late goals, from McMahon, from the penalty spot, and Leesley, overturned a deficit and saw Matlock leap from bottom to eleventh place.
"FC United will be up there," said Atkins.
"They're a very good side and will probably be in the play-offs – if they don't win the league.
"The big question is, can we handle them defensively and can we also create and take enough opportunities to hurt them?
"Rushall, meanwhile, had a very good first season at this level. They're strong and very well organised so it'll be another tough one for us."
Last Saturday's hammering by Nantwich is still in the thoughts of Atkins and his side, who are keen to erase the memories of Matlock's worst opening day at home since joining the Northern Premier League in 1969-70.
"We got exactly what we deserved," he said.
"Nantwich were by miles the better side but we weren't at the races.
"Of the 14 players we used, I wasn't happy with any one of them.
"There was no determination, no thought to our play, just long balls to their centre-halves. It was a very poor performance."
IT is a Matlock Town side missing several first-team players who manager Mark Atkins will take to FC United of Manchester tomorrow.
The Gladiators' catalogue of injuries began even before the first game, when central defender Laurence Gaughan tore his hamstring, leading to a potential eight weeks on the sidelines.
Full-back Micky Harcourt was forced off after 20 minutes in the 5-0 defeat by Nantwich Town with a foot injury, then X-rays revealed that substitute Ben Algar had a broken metatarsal.
Midfielder James Ashmore lasted only eight minutes at Frickley Athletic on Tuesday before being carried off with ankle ligament damage and faces a couple of months' lay-off.
"Thank goodness we've got a big squad because it looks like we'll need it," said Atkins.
"That's why I brought all the lads in that I did, particularly with the hectic start to the season.
"We've also got Kris Bowler with a rib injury, Lewis McMahon has a bad ankle and Joe Leesley an Achilles knock."
Gareth Davies and Nathan Joynes will be added to the squad for tomorrow's trip to Gigg Lane and the home fixture against Rushall Olympic on Bank Holiday Monday (3pm).
Both opponents have 100% records after the opening two games, while Tuesday's 2-1 success at Frickley Athletic, achieved when late goals, from McMahon, from the penalty spot, and Leesley, overturned a deficit and saw Matlock leap from bottom to eleventh place.
"FC United will be up there," said Atkins.
"They're a very good side and will probably be in the play-offs – if they don't win the league.
"The big question is, can we handle them defensively and can we also create and take enough opportunities to hurt them?
"Rushall, meanwhile, had a very good first season at this level. They're strong and very well organised so it'll be another tough one for us."
Last Saturday's hammering by Nantwich is still in the thoughts of Atkins and his side, who are keen to erase the memories of Matlock's worst opening day at home since joining the Northern Premier League in 1969-70.
"We got exactly what we deserved," he said.
"Nantwich were by miles the better side but we weren't at the races.
"Of the 14 players we used, I wasn't happy with any one of them.
"There was no determination, no thought to our play, just long balls to their centre-halves. It was a very poor performance."
Monday, August 20, 2012
Ten-man Grantham Town scrap out defeat to FC United of Manchester in season opener
Source: Grantham Journal
GRANTHAM Town’s season opener ended in defeat after the Gingerbreads shocked FC United of Manchester by taking an early lead.
Evo-Stik Northern Premier League
Premier Division
Grantham Town 2
FC United of Manchester 4
A generally evenly-balanced first half saw early chances from FC United’s Carlos Rocca and Grantham’s Paul Grimes. Town keeper Jimmy Lindley punched Rocca’s fourth minute effort clear and Grimes’s curler went just past the far post four minutes later.
FC United posed little threat in the opening exchanges although they were able to keep Grantham penned into their own half at times.
The Gingerbreads shocked United and their 700-plus travelling support in the 13th minute. Grimes’s storming run down the left flank and into the 18-yard box ended with him slotting past keeper James Spencer.
Two minutes later, Town skipper Ben Saunders headed on target but it was too easy for Spencer. FC United were awarded a free kick in the 17th minute that was headed clear by the Grantham defence.
Ben Saunders set up Grimes for another shot on goal but his effort was deflected wide. Grimes turned provider to his skipper a minute later but Saunders’ strike was on the turn was charged down.
Grantham’s defending became slightly last-ditch as the half wore on but United were unable to take advantage.
Grimes was brought down on the edge of the United penalty box in the 28th minute. Martin Ball drove the free kick low through the wall but Spencer gathered at his feet.
Lindley faced a United free kick in the 34th minute. Grant Brindley made a bad late tackled on Lee Neville but Rocca curled wide from the 25-yard set-piece.
Four minutes later, United were level. Another Rocca free kick was headed in by Adam Jones, through the Grantham defence and Lindley.
The dying minutes of the half saw Ben Saunders head wide and Grimes fired off target after he hesitated a second too long and was closed down by United defenders.
Lindley was equal to Mike Norton’s close-range volley and Phil Watt did well to block Norton’s overhead kick just before the half time whistle.
Grantham had a chance to go back in front at the start of the second half, but Grimes scuffed a sitter.
It all started to go wrong for Grantham in the 48th minute. A quickly taken United free kick found Norton the ball behind the Town wall, appearing from the main stand to be well off-side. The flag stayed down, Lindley tripped Norton and referee Mr Finch pointed to the spot and showed the Grantham stopper a straight red.
Brindley took Lindley’s shirt and gloves and promptly saved Dean Stott’s penalty, only for Jerome Wright to fire in from the rebound.
Hardly recovered from the shock of it all, the Gingerbreads conceded again three minutes later. Naive defending allowed Rocca too much space to run in on a loose ball and he shot past Brindley with ease.
United’s celebrations were dampened a minute later when Grantham brought the scoreline to 3-2, with Sam Purcicoe firing in to reignite the Gingerbreads supporters.
Matthew Wolfenden skied a shot over the Grantham goal in the 56th minute as United continued to show more pace and cohesion as the game went on.
It was all hands on deck at times for Town as United surged forward and Brindley did well to tip substitute Stephen Johnson’s 64th minute corner kick from danger.
A minute later, Grantham were awarded a free kick from 20 yards out after Grimes was fouled. Grimes’s free kick was on target but Spencer was equal to it, with Town substitute Jamie McGhee on the United keeper’s toes.
Town threatened again in the 67th minute. Ball’s free kick found Sam Saunders whose flick-on header was just too high for Grimes to connect with.
United hammered the final nail in the coffin a minute later when danger man Norton threaded his way through the Town defence and tucked the ball past Brindley.
But Grantham continued to fight on. Ball’s 70th minute 40-yard free kick found Emeka Nwadike, whose header forced Spencer to tip past his post. Spencer punched Lee Potts’s subsequent corner kick out to McGhee but he fired off target.
As players came and went for both sides in late substitutions, the last real action saw Rhys Lewis’s 78th minute effort blocked after a Potts corner kick.
Grantham Town: Lindley, Purcicoe, Potts, Brindley, S. Saunders, Watt, Lewis, Ball, Grimes (Demidh, 72), B. Saunders (McGhee, 56), Nwadike (Magee, 84). Subs not used: Battersby, Jacklin. Att: 1,220.
Published on Monday 20 August 2012 11:32
GRANTHAM Town’s season opener ended in defeat after the Gingerbreads shocked FC United of Manchester by taking an early lead.
Evo-Stik Northern Premier League
Premier Division
Grantham Town 2
FC United of Manchester 4
A generally evenly-balanced first half saw early chances from FC United’s Carlos Rocca and Grantham’s Paul Grimes. Town keeper Jimmy Lindley punched Rocca’s fourth minute effort clear and Grimes’s curler went just past the far post four minutes later.
FC United posed little threat in the opening exchanges although they were able to keep Grantham penned into their own half at times.
The Gingerbreads shocked United and their 700-plus travelling support in the 13th minute. Grimes’s storming run down the left flank and into the 18-yard box ended with him slotting past keeper James Spencer.
Two minutes later, Town skipper Ben Saunders headed on target but it was too easy for Spencer. FC United were awarded a free kick in the 17th minute that was headed clear by the Grantham defence.
Ben Saunders set up Grimes for another shot on goal but his effort was deflected wide. Grimes turned provider to his skipper a minute later but Saunders’ strike was on the turn was charged down.
Grantham’s defending became slightly last-ditch as the half wore on but United were unable to take advantage.
Grimes was brought down on the edge of the United penalty box in the 28th minute. Martin Ball drove the free kick low through the wall but Spencer gathered at his feet.
Lindley faced a United free kick in the 34th minute. Grant Brindley made a bad late tackled on Lee Neville but Rocca curled wide from the 25-yard set-piece.
Four minutes later, United were level. Another Rocca free kick was headed in by Adam Jones, through the Grantham defence and Lindley.
The dying minutes of the half saw Ben Saunders head wide and Grimes fired off target after he hesitated a second too long and was closed down by United defenders.
Lindley was equal to Mike Norton’s close-range volley and Phil Watt did well to block Norton’s overhead kick just before the half time whistle.
Grantham had a chance to go back in front at the start of the second half, but Grimes scuffed a sitter.
It all started to go wrong for Grantham in the 48th minute. A quickly taken United free kick found Norton the ball behind the Town wall, appearing from the main stand to be well off-side. The flag stayed down, Lindley tripped Norton and referee Mr Finch pointed to the spot and showed the Grantham stopper a straight red.
Brindley took Lindley’s shirt and gloves and promptly saved Dean Stott’s penalty, only for Jerome Wright to fire in from the rebound.
Hardly recovered from the shock of it all, the Gingerbreads conceded again three minutes later. Naive defending allowed Rocca too much space to run in on a loose ball and he shot past Brindley with ease.
United’s celebrations were dampened a minute later when Grantham brought the scoreline to 3-2, with Sam Purcicoe firing in to reignite the Gingerbreads supporters.
Matthew Wolfenden skied a shot over the Grantham goal in the 56th minute as United continued to show more pace and cohesion as the game went on.
It was all hands on deck at times for Town as United surged forward and Brindley did well to tip substitute Stephen Johnson’s 64th minute corner kick from danger.
A minute later, Grantham were awarded a free kick from 20 yards out after Grimes was fouled. Grimes’s free kick was on target but Spencer was equal to it, with Town substitute Jamie McGhee on the United keeper’s toes.
Town threatened again in the 67th minute. Ball’s free kick found Sam Saunders whose flick-on header was just too high for Grimes to connect with.
United hammered the final nail in the coffin a minute later when danger man Norton threaded his way through the Town defence and tucked the ball past Brindley.
But Grantham continued to fight on. Ball’s 70th minute 40-yard free kick found Emeka Nwadike, whose header forced Spencer to tip past his post. Spencer punched Lee Potts’s subsequent corner kick out to McGhee but he fired off target.
As players came and went for both sides in late substitutions, the last real action saw Rhys Lewis’s 78th minute effort blocked after a Potts corner kick.
Grantham Town: Lindley, Purcicoe, Potts, Brindley, S. Saunders, Watt, Lewis, Ball, Grimes (Demidh, 72), B. Saunders (McGhee, 56), Nwadike (Magee, 84). Subs not used: Battersby, Jacklin. Att: 1,220.
Published on Monday 20 August 2012 11:32
Rebels open with a victory
Source: MEN
FC United kicked off their Evo-Stik Premier campaign with a 4-2 win at 10-man Grantham Town.
Adam Jones scored the Rebels’ equaliser after they fell behind, but then Grantham had their goalkeeper James Lindlay sent off for bringing down Mike Norton.
Dean Stott’s spot kick was saved but Jerome Wright followed up to put United ahead.
Carlos Roca and Norton then also found the back of the net to secure the three points.
Ashton United were also involved in a high-scoring clash as they beat Worksop Town 5-3 with goals from Ben Deegan (2), Craig Robinson, an Aaron Burns penalty and a late strike from substitute Matty Barlow.
FC United kicked off their Evo-Stik Premier campaign with a 4-2 win at 10-man Grantham Town.
Adam Jones scored the Rebels’ equaliser after they fell behind, but then Grantham had their goalkeeper James Lindlay sent off for bringing down Mike Norton.
Dean Stott’s spot kick was saved but Jerome Wright followed up to put United ahead.
Carlos Roca and Norton then also found the back of the net to secure the three points.
Ashton United were also involved in a high-scoring clash as they beat Worksop Town 5-3 with goals from Ben Deegan (2), Craig Robinson, an Aaron Burns penalty and a late strike from substitute Matty Barlow.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
VIDEO: Grantham Town match marred by fighting between rival fans
PUNCHES were thrown by both sets of fans during Grantham Town’s 4-2 loss to FC United of Manchester as fan violence briefly marred an excellent fixture.
The atmosphere prior to the game was electric and good-humoured, with the away side bringing an estimated 700 fans to The Gingerbreads’ 500.
The terracing at the Meres - usually home to a small pocket of hardcore Gingerbread fans - was split in half to allow both sets of fans access but the FC United contingent far outnumbered around 150 Town supporters.
Both sets of fans were chanting towards each other with FC United of Manchester fans singing “We are United” and Town supporters retorting with “You’re not United” but there was no sign of the atmosphere boiling over until Town took a surprise early lead through Paul Grimes.
Both sets of supporters were divided only by a handful of volunteer stewards and a thin line of red and white tape - neither of which could prevent the two sets of fans coming together.
Punches were thrown by a handful of supporters from either side with those from FC United coming into the less heavily populated Grantham Town section.
What sparked the violence is not clear although at least one Grantham Town fan ran to the front of the terracing to goad the FC United fans after Grimes’ opener.
The Journal spotted at least two Grantham Town fans suffering from cuts to the face after the melee, which was over in a matter of seconds, while another couple had swollen features.
Police quickly arrived on the scene and at least two Grantham Town supporters were ejected from the ground.
The remainder of the game passed without any further clashes thanks in no small part to the efforts of the stewards and the presence of police.
Grantham Town chairman Steve Boam:
“I think my stewards handled it very well.
“We have learned a few things from this fixture - putting a bigger segragation between supporters and what have you.
“I think the police handled it very well.
“We well know who these people are and they will be banned from this football ground.”
Grantham Town joint manager Jimmy Albans:
“I think foot ball at any level, when you have had a few beers and it’s the first game of the season and everyone is buzzing and the lads have been on the way down from Manchester, and our lads...at the end of the day let the authorities and people like that deal with it.
“I’m not really interested in it to be honest.”
Grantham Town joint manager Wayne Hallcro said:
“I saw that there was a bit of a scuffle at the back - not too much I don’t think.
“I think the stewards did a good job. I think it was a mixture of excitement, reflief and booze.
“The ugly side of the game so I don’t want to talk too much about that to be honest because I think it marrs what’s been a really good day for both teams, for the club and especially me and Jimmy.”
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Grantham Town 2 v 4 FC United - REACTION
GRANTHAM went a goal up in front of more than 1,200 fans at the Meres today but were ultimately beaten after going down to ten men.
Newly promoted Grantham Town pushed FC United - one of the best supported non-league sides in the country - throughout a hard-fought game which saw Paul Grimes put Grantham one-nil up.
The celebrations were marred by ugly clashes between a small group of both fans from both sides (more to follow).
FC United levelled before the break and went ahead when Town goalkeeper James Lindley gave away a penalty and was sent off for a goalmouth trip.
Centre-back Grant Brindley went in goal and incredibly saved the penalty - only for United to take a 2-1 lead from the rebound.
FC United were soon 3-1 up but The Gingerbreads battled back with Sam Purcicoe quickly pulling one back for 3-2.
But any chance of a miracle comeback ended when FC United striker Mike Norton grabbed the away side’s fourth to make it 4-2.
Grantham Town joint manager Wayne Hallcro:
“It was a dream start really, being 1-0 up. Then we had a couple of half-chances and one really good chance that could have made it 2-0 - then the game’s clearly different.”
Grantham Town joint manager Jimmy Albans:
“I was delighted with the whole 90 minutes.
“I can’t complain about the application, the effort, the attitude. I think we set out to deprive them of the ball and make it very, very hard for them.
“We sat behind the ball and tried to frustrate them and I think it worked very, very well for us.”
Grantham Town chairman Steve Boam:
“I think we conducted ourselves well.
“We were a little naive at times. I think the sending off had a massive impact on the game. At that point I thought we were more than capable of getting a point out of the game.
“I didn’t see a lot there that would worry us and they are red-hot favourites to win this league.
“If that’s the hardest test we are going to have I think we are in for a good season again.”
(On the crowd of more than 1,260)
“It was absolutely brilliant news. It was what we expected - we expected 700 from Manchester and it was great to have near-on 500 from Grantham.”
Derby-Auftakt in Tschechiens 2. Liga: Bohemians Prag 1905 trifft auf Bohemians Prag
Source: turus.net
Nein, die Überschrift beinhaltet keinen Tippfehler! Es ist Fakt: Am 05. August 2012 werden im Stadion Dolicek der FC Bohemians Praha 1905 und der FC (FK) Bohemians Praha aufeinandertreffen. Richtig! Man darf verwirrt sein. Zumal sogar die Vereinslogos ziemlich ähnlich aussehen. Ein grünes Känguru auf weißem Grund. Umrandet mit einem grünen Kreis. Verrücktes in der tschechischen Hauptstadt. Beim Anblick der Spielansetzung fallen einem sogleich die deutschen Gegenstücke ein. Die BSG Chemie Leipzig und die SG Leipzig-Leutzsch. Zwei sächsische Sechstligisten, die ein gemeinsames Vereinserbe verwalten. Allerdings ist dies für Außenstehende auf Grund der unterschiedlichen Namen und Embleme nicht auf Anhieb ersichtlich.
Anders in Prag. Fast identische Namen. Sehr ähnliche Vereinsembleme. Alles noch identischer und ähnlicher als bei den Stadtrivalen Manchester United Football Club und dem von Fans ins Leben gerufenen FC United of Manchester. Vor allem: In Manchester trennen beide Klubs einige Ligen, in Prag spielen beide Klubs in einer Liga.
BohemiansWie es dazu kam? In der Tat nicht mit drei Worten erklärbar. Im Jahre 1905 wurde der AFK Vrsovice ins Leben gerufen. Nach einer langen Australientournee (das Känguru im Emblem lässt grüßen) wurde der Verein 1927 kurzerhand in AFK Bohemians umbenannt. In der Folgezeit kam es noch zu einigen Namenswechseln. So hieß der Klub zwischenzeitlich Sokol Zeleznicari Praha, Spartak Praha Stalingrad, TJ CKD Praha und CU (Commercial Union) Bohemians Praha. 2002 wurde schließlich der Namen FC Bohemians Praha (bereits von 1993 bis 1999 Bestand) gewählt.
1983 gelang Bohemians der große Coup, in dem der Verein tschechoslowakischer Meister wurde. Sportlich bergab ging es jedoch Ende der 80er Jahre. Ein steter Kampf gegen den Abstieg, der 1992/93 schließlich nicht mehr verhindert werden konnte. Auch in der neuen tschechischen Liga ging es nicht mehr recht voran. Bis 2004/05 ging es auf und ab, am Ende dieser turbulenten Zeit kam die Insolvenz. Das komplette Aus war kaum zu verhindern. Während dieser Zeit am Rande des Abgrundes verlieh der Gesamtverein TJ Bohemians Praha die Bezeichnung „Bohemians“ und das Logo mit dem Känguru an den tschechischen Drittligisten FC Strizkov Praha 9. Dieser ließ sich sogleich den Namen und das Logo bei den entsprechenden Behörden eintragen.
Der in Insolvenz gegangene FC Bohemians nahm dreieinhalb Jahre lang nicht am Spielbetrieb teil. Pünktlich zur Saison 2009/10 wurde der Klub in der untersten Spielklasse in Prag angemeldet. Der Ball rollte wieder beim „echten“ FC Bohemians – allerdings fortan nur in den Niederungen des tschechischen Ligabetriebs. Gespielt wird im kleinen, aber durchaus charmanten Stadion SK Prosek Praha.
Die offizielle Webseite (bohemianspraha.cz) ist nicht ganz up to date. Zu lesen sind allerdings Meldungen zum Konkursverfahren. Etwas von einem Urteil und einer Beschlagnahmung ist zu lesen. Zudem einzelne Textfetzen zum am Rande des Konkurses stehenden Bohemians 1905. Gerichtsurteile. Aussagen zu illegal erworbenen Rechten. Die Seite lässt sich runterscrollen bis zum Stand von 2010. Rot markierte Textpassagen. Gerichtsurteile. Schmutzige Wäsche. Wer dort noch durchsieht, der hat anscheinend wirklich verstanden, wie es um die Nachfolger von Bohemians steht.
PragKommen wir zum FK Bohemians Praha, der in Kürze das Derby beim FC Bohemians 1905 bestreiten wird. In der Spielansetzung ist auch von einem „FC“ die Rede, und auch die Domain der offiziellen Seite lautet bohemiansfc.cz. Dieser Klub war bis 2005 der Drittligist FC Strizkov Praha 9. Nach dem Erwerb der Namens- und Logorechte hatte sich der Klub prompt umbenannt und sieht sich nun als echter Platzhirsch in der Bohemians-Angelegenheit. Ein Derby gegen Bohemians 1905? Abwarten. Der FK Bohemians Praha erkennt die Bohemians 1905 nicht an und setzt auf die Gerichte, denn auch der tschechische Verband ließ mitteilen, dass er in Zukunft nur einen Verein namens Bohemians akzeptieren wird. Welcher Verein das Recht hat, das Erbe zu tragen, müssen die Gerichte entscheiden. Auf der Webseite des FK Bohemians Praha sind vorsorglich nur 15 Mannschaften in der Tabelle eingetragen. Die Bohemians 1905 fehlen.
Das erste Pflichtspiel als FK Bohemians (zuvor FC Strizkov) wurde am 28. August 2005 in der dritten tschechischen Liga bestritten. Auswärts wurde in Varnsdorf angetreten, das Ergebnis war ein 0:0. Und siehe da. Am 1. Oktober 2005 gab es das erste Duell gegen Bohemians 1905, das 1:1 ausging. Beim Rückspiel im Mai 2006 fielen keine Tore, ein 0:0 war demzufolge das Endergebnis. 2007/08 spielte der FK Bohemians in der zweiten Liga, im Jahr darauf wurde sogar in der Czech Liga erstklassig gespielt. In der darauf folgenden Erstligasaison kam es dann zum großen Eklat. Inzwischen ebenfalls den Sprung ins tschechische Oberhaus geschafft hatte der verfeindete FC Bohemians 1905. Das Hinspiel ging am 4. Oktober 2010 noch im Stadion Evzena Rosického in Praha 6 vor 4.414 Zuschauern über die Bühne. Man trennte sich 0:0 und weiter ging es im Ligabetrieb. Das Rückspiel bei Bohemians konnte indes nicht mehr sportlich auf dem Rasen ausgetragen werden. Angereist und warmgemacht hatte sich das Team des FK Bohemians, doch angetreten wurde nicht. Der Grund: Die Erstligazugehörigkeit des Kontrahenten wurde für unrechtmäßig gehalten. Die Partie wurde am grünen Tisch entschieden. 3:0 für Bohemians 1905 wurde das Spiel gewertet. Und nicht nur das! 20 Punkte Abzug und sechs Millionen Kronen Strafe für den FK Bohemians. Der Weg in die dritte Liga war auf Grund der drakonischen Strafe die logische Konsequenz.
BohemiansPrima Laune beim Bohemians 1905? Nicht ganz, denn diese mussten am Ende der Spielzeit 2009/10 raus aus ihrem Stadion Dolícek im Stadtteil Vrsovice. Gespielt werden musste in der folgenden Saison in der ungeliebten Synot Tip Arena (Heimstätte von Slavia Praha), auch Stadion Eden genannt. Der Grund für den Umzug. Das kleine Heimstadion hatte keine Rasenheizung.
Sportlich neu anfangen musste indes der FK Bohemians (Strizkov). Am 07. August 2010 wurde sogleich losgelegt wie die Feuerwehr. Mit 4:0 wurde bei Loko Vltavín gewonnen. Völlig problemlos wurde die Saison über die Runden gebracht, am Ende durfte der Aufstieg in die zweite Liga gefeiert werden. Die Saison 2011/12 wurde recht ordentlich über die Bühne gebracht, Rang fünf war das Ergebnis recht solider Arbeit. Allerdings ist der Klub nicht gerade mit einem großen Anhang gesegnet. Zuletzt kamen gegen Zlin gerade einmal 312 Fans ins Stadion Prosek, gegen Jihlava waren es 482. Selbst beim Saisonauftakt gegen den MFK Karviná waren es nur 690 treue Zuschauer.
Anders der FC Bohemians 1905. Dieser moralisch betrachtet echte Nachfolgeverein der geschichtsträchtigen Bohemians weiß zahlreiche Fans hinter sich. Zuletzt ließ ein Testspiel die Herzen der grün-weißen Fans höher schlagen. Gegen den FC Parma wurde wieder im geliebten Stadion Dolícek aufgelaufen. Der Fanblock war prall gefüllt, das Team aus Italien wurde mit 2:1 geschlagen.
Synt Top ArenaZurück ins Jahr 2005. Im Zuge der Insolvenz, als sich der FC Strizkov Praha 9 den Namen und das Logo gesichert hatte, wurde parallel die Faninitiative Druzstvo Fanousku Bohemians (abgekürzt DFB, deutsch Vereinigung der Bohemians-Fans) ins Leben gerufen. Dank einer großen Sammelaktion unter den Fans im In- und Ausland und des Einstiegs eines Investors konnte es 2005/06 als AFK Vrsovice bzw. als Bohemians 1905 in der dritten Liga weitergehen. Bereits in der Folgesaison wurde wieder zweitklassig gespielt, der Aufstieg in die erste Liga gelang am Ende der Spielzeit 2006/07. Allerdings rutschte Bohemians 1905 nach nur einem Jahr wieder in die Zweitklassigkeit ab. Kein großes Problem, denn bereits 2009/10 rollte bei Bohemians 1905 wieder im Oberhaus der Ball. Drei Spielzeiten in Folge konnte sich der FC Bohemians 1905 in der ersten Liga halten, am Ende der zurückliegenden Saison bedeutete Rang 15 der Abstieg. Meister wurde indes Slovan Liberec vor dem AC Sparta Praha und dem FC Viktoria Plzen. Auf Grund der miserablen Leistung kamen meist zwischen 2.000 und 3.000 Zuschauer in die Synot Tip Arena. Rund 4.400 waren es beim Derby gegen Sparta Praha, das sang- und klanglos mit 0:4 verloren wurde. In der Vorsaison zog dieses Duell immerhin noch knapp 8.000 Zuschauer an.
Neue Liga. Neues Glück. Zurück im alten Stadion! Es ist angerichtet im Dolicek für das Duell gegen den FK Bohemians! Großes Theater bereits vor dem Start des Spielbetriebs. Der Verband sah Bohemians 1905 als traditionellen Nachfolger und legte dem FK Bohemians nahe, sich in FC Strizkov Praha 9 zurückzubenennen. Dieser weigerte sich, schließlich erwarb dieser im Jahre 2005 die Rechte an Namen und Logo. Eine verzwickte Situation. Es folgte der Gang vor ein Zivilgericht. Dieses bewirkte die Wiedereingliederung des FK Bohemians in den laufenden Spielbetrieb. Man darf sehr gespannt sein, wie diese Geschichte weitergehen wird! Keine Frage, wir bleiben an diesem spannenden Thema dran!
Nein, die Überschrift beinhaltet keinen Tippfehler! Es ist Fakt: Am 05. August 2012 werden im Stadion Dolicek der FC Bohemians Praha 1905 und der FC (FK) Bohemians Praha aufeinandertreffen. Richtig! Man darf verwirrt sein. Zumal sogar die Vereinslogos ziemlich ähnlich aussehen. Ein grünes Känguru auf weißem Grund. Umrandet mit einem grünen Kreis. Verrücktes in der tschechischen Hauptstadt. Beim Anblick der Spielansetzung fallen einem sogleich die deutschen Gegenstücke ein. Die BSG Chemie Leipzig und die SG Leipzig-Leutzsch. Zwei sächsische Sechstligisten, die ein gemeinsames Vereinserbe verwalten. Allerdings ist dies für Außenstehende auf Grund der unterschiedlichen Namen und Embleme nicht auf Anhieb ersichtlich.
Anders in Prag. Fast identische Namen. Sehr ähnliche Vereinsembleme. Alles noch identischer und ähnlicher als bei den Stadtrivalen Manchester United Football Club und dem von Fans ins Leben gerufenen FC United of Manchester. Vor allem: In Manchester trennen beide Klubs einige Ligen, in Prag spielen beide Klubs in einer Liga.
BohemiansWie es dazu kam? In der Tat nicht mit drei Worten erklärbar. Im Jahre 1905 wurde der AFK Vrsovice ins Leben gerufen. Nach einer langen Australientournee (das Känguru im Emblem lässt grüßen) wurde der Verein 1927 kurzerhand in AFK Bohemians umbenannt. In der Folgezeit kam es noch zu einigen Namenswechseln. So hieß der Klub zwischenzeitlich Sokol Zeleznicari Praha, Spartak Praha Stalingrad, TJ CKD Praha und CU (Commercial Union) Bohemians Praha. 2002 wurde schließlich der Namen FC Bohemians Praha (bereits von 1993 bis 1999 Bestand) gewählt.
1983 gelang Bohemians der große Coup, in dem der Verein tschechoslowakischer Meister wurde. Sportlich bergab ging es jedoch Ende der 80er Jahre. Ein steter Kampf gegen den Abstieg, der 1992/93 schließlich nicht mehr verhindert werden konnte. Auch in der neuen tschechischen Liga ging es nicht mehr recht voran. Bis 2004/05 ging es auf und ab, am Ende dieser turbulenten Zeit kam die Insolvenz. Das komplette Aus war kaum zu verhindern. Während dieser Zeit am Rande des Abgrundes verlieh der Gesamtverein TJ Bohemians Praha die Bezeichnung „Bohemians“ und das Logo mit dem Känguru an den tschechischen Drittligisten FC Strizkov Praha 9. Dieser ließ sich sogleich den Namen und das Logo bei den entsprechenden Behörden eintragen.
Der in Insolvenz gegangene FC Bohemians nahm dreieinhalb Jahre lang nicht am Spielbetrieb teil. Pünktlich zur Saison 2009/10 wurde der Klub in der untersten Spielklasse in Prag angemeldet. Der Ball rollte wieder beim „echten“ FC Bohemians – allerdings fortan nur in den Niederungen des tschechischen Ligabetriebs. Gespielt wird im kleinen, aber durchaus charmanten Stadion SK Prosek Praha.
Die offizielle Webseite (bohemianspraha.cz) ist nicht ganz up to date. Zu lesen sind allerdings Meldungen zum Konkursverfahren. Etwas von einem Urteil und einer Beschlagnahmung ist zu lesen. Zudem einzelne Textfetzen zum am Rande des Konkurses stehenden Bohemians 1905. Gerichtsurteile. Aussagen zu illegal erworbenen Rechten. Die Seite lässt sich runterscrollen bis zum Stand von 2010. Rot markierte Textpassagen. Gerichtsurteile. Schmutzige Wäsche. Wer dort noch durchsieht, der hat anscheinend wirklich verstanden, wie es um die Nachfolger von Bohemians steht.
PragKommen wir zum FK Bohemians Praha, der in Kürze das Derby beim FC Bohemians 1905 bestreiten wird. In der Spielansetzung ist auch von einem „FC“ die Rede, und auch die Domain der offiziellen Seite lautet bohemiansfc.cz. Dieser Klub war bis 2005 der Drittligist FC Strizkov Praha 9. Nach dem Erwerb der Namens- und Logorechte hatte sich der Klub prompt umbenannt und sieht sich nun als echter Platzhirsch in der Bohemians-Angelegenheit. Ein Derby gegen Bohemians 1905? Abwarten. Der FK Bohemians Praha erkennt die Bohemians 1905 nicht an und setzt auf die Gerichte, denn auch der tschechische Verband ließ mitteilen, dass er in Zukunft nur einen Verein namens Bohemians akzeptieren wird. Welcher Verein das Recht hat, das Erbe zu tragen, müssen die Gerichte entscheiden. Auf der Webseite des FK Bohemians Praha sind vorsorglich nur 15 Mannschaften in der Tabelle eingetragen. Die Bohemians 1905 fehlen.
Das erste Pflichtspiel als FK Bohemians (zuvor FC Strizkov) wurde am 28. August 2005 in der dritten tschechischen Liga bestritten. Auswärts wurde in Varnsdorf angetreten, das Ergebnis war ein 0:0. Und siehe da. Am 1. Oktober 2005 gab es das erste Duell gegen Bohemians 1905, das 1:1 ausging. Beim Rückspiel im Mai 2006 fielen keine Tore, ein 0:0 war demzufolge das Endergebnis. 2007/08 spielte der FK Bohemians in der zweiten Liga, im Jahr darauf wurde sogar in der Czech Liga erstklassig gespielt. In der darauf folgenden Erstligasaison kam es dann zum großen Eklat. Inzwischen ebenfalls den Sprung ins tschechische Oberhaus geschafft hatte der verfeindete FC Bohemians 1905. Das Hinspiel ging am 4. Oktober 2010 noch im Stadion Evzena Rosického in Praha 6 vor 4.414 Zuschauern über die Bühne. Man trennte sich 0:0 und weiter ging es im Ligabetrieb. Das Rückspiel bei Bohemians konnte indes nicht mehr sportlich auf dem Rasen ausgetragen werden. Angereist und warmgemacht hatte sich das Team des FK Bohemians, doch angetreten wurde nicht. Der Grund: Die Erstligazugehörigkeit des Kontrahenten wurde für unrechtmäßig gehalten. Die Partie wurde am grünen Tisch entschieden. 3:0 für Bohemians 1905 wurde das Spiel gewertet. Und nicht nur das! 20 Punkte Abzug und sechs Millionen Kronen Strafe für den FK Bohemians. Der Weg in die dritte Liga war auf Grund der drakonischen Strafe die logische Konsequenz.
BohemiansPrima Laune beim Bohemians 1905? Nicht ganz, denn diese mussten am Ende der Spielzeit 2009/10 raus aus ihrem Stadion Dolícek im Stadtteil Vrsovice. Gespielt werden musste in der folgenden Saison in der ungeliebten Synot Tip Arena (Heimstätte von Slavia Praha), auch Stadion Eden genannt. Der Grund für den Umzug. Das kleine Heimstadion hatte keine Rasenheizung.
Sportlich neu anfangen musste indes der FK Bohemians (Strizkov). Am 07. August 2010 wurde sogleich losgelegt wie die Feuerwehr. Mit 4:0 wurde bei Loko Vltavín gewonnen. Völlig problemlos wurde die Saison über die Runden gebracht, am Ende durfte der Aufstieg in die zweite Liga gefeiert werden. Die Saison 2011/12 wurde recht ordentlich über die Bühne gebracht, Rang fünf war das Ergebnis recht solider Arbeit. Allerdings ist der Klub nicht gerade mit einem großen Anhang gesegnet. Zuletzt kamen gegen Zlin gerade einmal 312 Fans ins Stadion Prosek, gegen Jihlava waren es 482. Selbst beim Saisonauftakt gegen den MFK Karviná waren es nur 690 treue Zuschauer.
Anders der FC Bohemians 1905. Dieser moralisch betrachtet echte Nachfolgeverein der geschichtsträchtigen Bohemians weiß zahlreiche Fans hinter sich. Zuletzt ließ ein Testspiel die Herzen der grün-weißen Fans höher schlagen. Gegen den FC Parma wurde wieder im geliebten Stadion Dolícek aufgelaufen. Der Fanblock war prall gefüllt, das Team aus Italien wurde mit 2:1 geschlagen.
Synt Top ArenaZurück ins Jahr 2005. Im Zuge der Insolvenz, als sich der FC Strizkov Praha 9 den Namen und das Logo gesichert hatte, wurde parallel die Faninitiative Druzstvo Fanousku Bohemians (abgekürzt DFB, deutsch Vereinigung der Bohemians-Fans) ins Leben gerufen. Dank einer großen Sammelaktion unter den Fans im In- und Ausland und des Einstiegs eines Investors konnte es 2005/06 als AFK Vrsovice bzw. als Bohemians 1905 in der dritten Liga weitergehen. Bereits in der Folgesaison wurde wieder zweitklassig gespielt, der Aufstieg in die erste Liga gelang am Ende der Spielzeit 2006/07. Allerdings rutschte Bohemians 1905 nach nur einem Jahr wieder in die Zweitklassigkeit ab. Kein großes Problem, denn bereits 2009/10 rollte bei Bohemians 1905 wieder im Oberhaus der Ball. Drei Spielzeiten in Folge konnte sich der FC Bohemians 1905 in der ersten Liga halten, am Ende der zurückliegenden Saison bedeutete Rang 15 der Abstieg. Meister wurde indes Slovan Liberec vor dem AC Sparta Praha und dem FC Viktoria Plzen. Auf Grund der miserablen Leistung kamen meist zwischen 2.000 und 3.000 Zuschauer in die Synot Tip Arena. Rund 4.400 waren es beim Derby gegen Sparta Praha, das sang- und klanglos mit 0:4 verloren wurde. In der Vorsaison zog dieses Duell immerhin noch knapp 8.000 Zuschauer an.
Neue Liga. Neues Glück. Zurück im alten Stadion! Es ist angerichtet im Dolicek für das Duell gegen den FK Bohemians! Großes Theater bereits vor dem Start des Spielbetriebs. Der Verband sah Bohemians 1905 als traditionellen Nachfolger und legte dem FK Bohemians nahe, sich in FC Strizkov Praha 9 zurückzubenennen. Dieser weigerte sich, schließlich erwarb dieser im Jahre 2005 die Rechte an Namen und Logo. Eine verzwickte Situation. Es folgte der Gang vor ein Zivilgericht. Dieses bewirkte die Wiedereingliederung des FK Bohemians in den laufenden Spielbetrieb. Man darf sehr gespannt sein, wie diese Geschichte weitergehen wird! Keine Frage, wir bleiben an diesem spannenden Thema dran!
Friday, August 17, 2012
Follow the crowd as bumper attendance expected at Grantham Town’s season opener against FC United of Manchester
Source: Grantham Journal
A BUMPER crowd is expected at The Meres tomorrow when Grantham Town host non-league leviathons FC United of Manchester.
Joint manager Wayne Hallcro described the fixture as “perfect” for the Gingerbreads’ return to the Northern Premier League Premier Division, following their championship-winning season in Division One South.
FC United are renowned for their large home support and sizeable travelling contingent. Internet forums this week suggested that the Manchester side will be bringing anything from 300 to 700-plus supporters, which could easily make an attendance of more than 1,000 for the season opener.
Hallcro said: “Saturday is the perfect game for opening day. With a big crowd and the lottery of [it being the] first game, we could cause a surprise or two. We would certainly prefer to be playing FC United now than in 10 games time.
“We haven’t watched them and don’t know too much about them. But would we change what we do at home? No way. We do need a plan B in case it isn’t working. We will have more information about them before the game.”
Despite two fantastic previous seasons, Grantham have suffered slow starts to their campaigns, but Hallcro does not see that as a problem and said last year’s opener against Lincoln United was more of a pressure game than tomorrow’s meeting with last season’s Premier Division play-off contenders FC United.
Hallcro said: “In some respects, we have got to go out and play our way and let them worry about us. We are all comfortable with what we do. We need to stay in the game as long as we can to get something out of it.
“We are under no pressure this Saturday and will go out to get a result. It is the first game in a higher league.
“We can’t be complacent because we won the league last time round. It is a big game and a big crowd lifts everyone.”
Hallcro said that the Premier Division was going to be a “massive” learning curve for the whole Grantham Town set-up and different tactics would have to be employed at times if they were to match their opposition, including FC United tomorrow..
He said: “If we defend properly and be patient, chances will come. We must make the right decisions when we have got the ball and need to clear our lines to the right place.
“Their front two are very experienced and we need to keep tight to them.”
Grantham chairman Steve Boam said he had spoken to FC United of Manchester on Wednesday night and they confirmed that they were expecting to bring around 700 supporters.
Mr Boam would have preferred the FC United game to have come a little later in the season but said that the potentially largest attendance of the season for the first game scenario was far more preferable than the Manchester side visiting The Meres on a cold, frosty winter’s night, watched by “one man and his dog”.
Mr Boam said: “We are expecting close on to 2,000 tomorrow, but I am forever the optimist.
“Looking at 700 travelling, I hope interest around town will at least match that. We have had record season ticket sales, which is a good indicator.
“I want people around town to get behind us 100 per cent and enjoy the level of football the club is at now.”
To be part of that big crowd atmosphere and witness what could the start of another momentous season for the Gingerbreads, get along to The Meres tomorrow for the 3pm kick-off.
A BUMPER crowd is expected at The Meres tomorrow when Grantham Town host non-league leviathons FC United of Manchester.
Joint manager Wayne Hallcro described the fixture as “perfect” for the Gingerbreads’ return to the Northern Premier League Premier Division, following their championship-winning season in Division One South.
FC United are renowned for their large home support and sizeable travelling contingent. Internet forums this week suggested that the Manchester side will be bringing anything from 300 to 700-plus supporters, which could easily make an attendance of more than 1,000 for the season opener.
Hallcro said: “Saturday is the perfect game for opening day. With a big crowd and the lottery of [it being the] first game, we could cause a surprise or two. We would certainly prefer to be playing FC United now than in 10 games time.
“We haven’t watched them and don’t know too much about them. But would we change what we do at home? No way. We do need a plan B in case it isn’t working. We will have more information about them before the game.”
Despite two fantastic previous seasons, Grantham have suffered slow starts to their campaigns, but Hallcro does not see that as a problem and said last year’s opener against Lincoln United was more of a pressure game than tomorrow’s meeting with last season’s Premier Division play-off contenders FC United.
Hallcro said: “In some respects, we have got to go out and play our way and let them worry about us. We are all comfortable with what we do. We need to stay in the game as long as we can to get something out of it.
“We are under no pressure this Saturday and will go out to get a result. It is the first game in a higher league.
“We can’t be complacent because we won the league last time round. It is a big game and a big crowd lifts everyone.”
Hallcro said that the Premier Division was going to be a “massive” learning curve for the whole Grantham Town set-up and different tactics would have to be employed at times if they were to match their opposition, including FC United tomorrow..
He said: “If we defend properly and be patient, chances will come. We must make the right decisions when we have got the ball and need to clear our lines to the right place.
“Their front two are very experienced and we need to keep tight to them.”
Grantham chairman Steve Boam said he had spoken to FC United of Manchester on Wednesday night and they confirmed that they were expecting to bring around 700 supporters.
Mr Boam would have preferred the FC United game to have come a little later in the season but said that the potentially largest attendance of the season for the first game scenario was far more preferable than the Manchester side visiting The Meres on a cold, frosty winter’s night, watched by “one man and his dog”.
Mr Boam said: “We are expecting close on to 2,000 tomorrow, but I am forever the optimist.
“Looking at 700 travelling, I hope interest around town will at least match that. We have had record season ticket sales, which is a good indicator.
“I want people around town to get behind us 100 per cent and enjoy the level of football the club is at now.”
To be part of that big crowd atmosphere and witness what could the start of another momentous season for the Gingerbreads, get along to The Meres tomorrow for the 3pm kick-off.
Chorley are looking up after play-off pain
Source: Chorley Citizen
CHORLEY start their season at Stocksbridge Park Steels tonight aiming for promotion once more after narrowly missing out in the play-offs last term.
The Magpies were unable to secure their ascent to Blue Square North after losing in the Evo-Stik Premier Division play-off semi finals to FC United, but chairman Ken Wright is hopeful that they can challenge again this time around.
Manager Garry Flitcroft, who did guide Chorley to promotion from First Division North a year ago, has added goalkeeper Andy Robertson as well as defenders Kieran Walmsley and Simon Garner to his squad.
Chorley’s opening game has been brought forward to tonight because of a clash with cricket fixtures at Stocksbridge.
“We had a decent season last season and we’d like to go one better,” Wright said.
“Of course we were disappointed to lose in the play-offs, and Bradford Park Avenue went up who a week earlier we’d beaten.
“But we know the rules before the start of the season. I would like to see two automatic places and one through the play-offs right through the pyramid system, but that’s just my personal belief.
“The ideal way of course would be to finish top, but no-one has a divine right. No-one is taking anything for granted.
“Hednesford did well last season, FC United are still there, Blyth Spartans have come down, Ilkeston have come up have backing and AFC Fylde have backing too.
“But we have tried to strengthen again this summer.”
CHORLEY start their season at Stocksbridge Park Steels tonight aiming for promotion once more after narrowly missing out in the play-offs last term.
The Magpies were unable to secure their ascent to Blue Square North after losing in the Evo-Stik Premier Division play-off semi finals to FC United, but chairman Ken Wright is hopeful that they can challenge again this time around.
Manager Garry Flitcroft, who did guide Chorley to promotion from First Division North a year ago, has added goalkeeper Andy Robertson as well as defenders Kieran Walmsley and Simon Garner to his squad.
Chorley’s opening game has been brought forward to tonight because of a clash with cricket fixtures at Stocksbridge.
“We had a decent season last season and we’d like to go one better,” Wright said.
“Of course we were disappointed to lose in the play-offs, and Bradford Park Avenue went up who a week earlier we’d beaten.
“But we know the rules before the start of the season. I would like to see two automatic places and one through the play-offs right through the pyramid system, but that’s just my personal belief.
“The ideal way of course would be to finish top, but no-one has a divine right. No-one is taking anything for granted.
“Hednesford did well last season, FC United are still there, Blyth Spartans have come down, Ilkeston have come up have backing and AFC Fylde have backing too.
“But we have tried to strengthen again this summer.”
Friday, August 10, 2012
Police criticise football club for ‘irresponsible’ bar sales
Source: Yorkshire Post - No online content
A FOOTBALL club could lose its licence to sell alcohol following police claims that club officials failed to take action to prevent disorder.
Police chiefs are asking councillors to revoke the premises licence for Bradford Park Avenue’s social club at the Horsfall Stadium.
Their concerns centre on the sale of alcohol to supporters at a play-off final between Bradford and FC United of Manchester on May 6.
A police statement has claimed that the club did not take a responsible approach to the sale of alcohol when the atmosphere turned nasty.
The statement, contained in a report to council licensing chiefs who meet on August 16, said the “sudden change in mood of the supporters” was fuelled by alcohol.
“The bar was still open for the sale of alcohol and there appeared to be no concerns or any responsibility being taken from the bar staff, Bradford Park Avenue committee or designated premises supervisor who at that time was not present within the bar.”
Officers asked for the bar to be closed until after the game but this was “flatly refused”, according to police.
The police claim that director Kevin Holdsworth was spoken to “but would not or could not comprehend the potential seriousness of the situation and that he has basically refused an instruction not only from the police but the ground safety officer.”
It concludes: “The premises and those that involved in the running of Bradford Park Avenue are failing to see that it is their responsibility to run their premises professionally.”
The club declined to comment.
A FOOTBALL club could lose its licence to sell alcohol following police claims that club officials failed to take action to prevent disorder.
Police chiefs are asking councillors to revoke the premises licence for Bradford Park Avenue’s social club at the Horsfall Stadium.
Their concerns centre on the sale of alcohol to supporters at a play-off final between Bradford and FC United of Manchester on May 6.
A police statement has claimed that the club did not take a responsible approach to the sale of alcohol when the atmosphere turned nasty.
The statement, contained in a report to council licensing chiefs who meet on August 16, said the “sudden change in mood of the supporters” was fuelled by alcohol.
“The bar was still open for the sale of alcohol and there appeared to be no concerns or any responsibility being taken from the bar staff, Bradford Park Avenue committee or designated premises supervisor who at that time was not present within the bar.”
Officers asked for the bar to be closed until after the game but this was “flatly refused”, according to police.
The police claim that director Kevin Holdsworth was spoken to “but would not or could not comprehend the potential seriousness of the situation and that he has basically refused an instruction not only from the police but the ground safety officer.”
It concludes: “The premises and those that involved in the running of Bradford Park Avenue are failing to see that it is their responsibility to run their premises professionally.”
The club declined to comment.
Thursday, August 02, 2012
Moston residents mount challenge to stop FC United's new stadium
Source: MEN
Residents opposed to FC United's planned new stadium have launched a challenge to the club's planning permission.
The non-league club, formed in protest at the Glazer family's ownership of Manchester United, want to build a 5,000 capacity stadium on the Ronald Johnson playing fields in Moston.
They have been granted planning permission by Manchester council and had hoped to start work later this summer.
However, the Residents United Residents Association, set up in protest at the proposals, are trying to force a judicial review.
They believe that the town hall failed to follow protocol when they gave the club the green light.
Papers were lodged last Thursday, the M.E.N. understands.
Manchester council has 14 days to respond to the challenge, which FC United bosses say they expected.
It will then be down to RURA to decide whether they want to take their appeal to London.
Residents opposed to FC United's planned new stadium have launched a challenge to the club's planning permission.
The non-league club, formed in protest at the Glazer family's ownership of Manchester United, want to build a 5,000 capacity stadium on the Ronald Johnson playing fields in Moston.
They have been granted planning permission by Manchester council and had hoped to start work later this summer.
However, the Residents United Residents Association, set up in protest at the proposals, are trying to force a judicial review.
They believe that the town hall failed to follow protocol when they gave the club the green light.
Papers were lodged last Thursday, the M.E.N. understands.
Manchester council has 14 days to respond to the challenge, which FC United bosses say they expected.
It will then be down to RURA to decide whether they want to take their appeal to London.
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