Source: Chester Chronicle
CHESTER FC Youth face their biggest game of the season on Sunday.
The young Blues will bid to cause a shock when they host FC United of Manchester Youth in the semi-finals of the North West Youth Alliance Neil Thomason Cup.
Chester are the underdogs going into the last-four clash, which takes place on the main pitch at the Cheshire County Sports Club in Upton.
But Bernard Concannon, Chester FC’s head of youth development, believes they could not have a bigger incentive to upset the odds.
Concannon said: “It will be a tough game against the league and cup favourites, who are predominantly a year older than our current youth team squad.
“Saying that, on our day we are more than capable of rising to the occasion and producing the performance needed to progress to the final which has the added incentive of it taking place at the Exacta Stadium.”
Kick off on Sunday is 11am.
Two young Chester FC teams got the chance to play at the Exacta Stadium last Sunday.
A crowd of more than 100 watched the fledgling Blues under 10s and U13s in action.
The U10s, managed by Jason Bowdler, Calum McIntyre and Ashley Field, displayed some sublime passing and movement as they ran out 4-0 winners against Flint Town United U10s.
Joseph O’Gorman was named man of the match after bagging a brace.
Will Goodwin and Joe Burrows completed Chester’s scoring.
The U13s, managed by Russ Martin, continued their unbeaten run with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Dublin touring side St Kevin’s Boys Club U13s.
Harry Deponeo and Joe Hickson got the goals for the under-strength Blues, for whom Cameron Drury and Corey Sherman shared the man-of-the-match award.
Apr 5 2012 by Paul Wheelock, Chester Chronicle
Showing posts with label Chester Chronicle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chester Chronicle. Show all posts
Thursday, April 05, 2012
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
Manchester holding no fear for Durham City
Source: Chester Chronicle
DURHAM CITY go to FC United of Manchester tonight without fear, Ross Wilkinson says.
The New Ferens Park outfit held their Evo Stik Premier opponents to a 1-1 draw in Saturday’s FA Trophy second qualifying round clash.
They replay at Gigg Lane this evening, and City skipper Wilkinson believes they do so buoyed by their weekend performance.
“We’re quite confident going down there,” Wilkinson said.
“We were really pleased with Saturday’s performance, especially the second half when I thought we fought hard.
“In the first half we stood off them a little bit, and let them get the ball down but in the second half we were in their faces and I think we could have won if we’d pushed on a little bit harder.
“We had a couple of good chances, and I had a goal disallowed, which I thought was a bit harsh, I thought I was onside.
“I felt if the game had gone on a little bit longer we would have won it.
“In the end, we settled for the draw. Against a team from the league above us, that’s a good result.
“Now we’ve got an excellent chance going down there to Gigg Lane.
“We’ve got to go there with confidence, start the game like we finished on Saturday and we might surprise a few people.
“Spirits are high at the club right now, the banter and morale are good.
“Dickie (Ord) gets us fired up for every game, and as long as we can keep this squad together and everybody fit, I think we can give it a good push in the Trophy and in the league.
“The money involved in the Trophy is obviously very important for a club like this, and the further we go in the competition the higher the standard of the opposition.
“People work their backsides off here to keep the club afloat so it’s important we keep our good form going.
“Two years ago the team that kept the club going won down there so it’ll be good to go back. If we play like we did on Saturday we’ll have a good chance.
“They’ll expect to win but there’s no fear among us, and nothing to lose.”
Meanwhile, City vice-chairman Ian Walker added: “We’ve got to take confidence from Saturday’s game.
“When you look at FC United, the spin-off of Manchester United, they’ve got big support but haven’t forgotten what we did down there two seasons ago when we went down and beat them 2-1 with a bunch of kids.
“That shows where we’ve come from, we’ve risen from the ashes and I think they respect us for that.
“We’re getting recognised now across the north of England and we’ll go there on Wednesday with confidence.
“If we’ve got a strong squad I firmly believe we can give them a good run for their money and pick up a win.”
by Steve Brown, Evening Chronicle
Nov 9 2011
DURHAM CITY go to FC United of Manchester tonight without fear, Ross Wilkinson says.
The New Ferens Park outfit held their Evo Stik Premier opponents to a 1-1 draw in Saturday’s FA Trophy second qualifying round clash.
They replay at Gigg Lane this evening, and City skipper Wilkinson believes they do so buoyed by their weekend performance.
“We’re quite confident going down there,” Wilkinson said.
“We were really pleased with Saturday’s performance, especially the second half when I thought we fought hard.
“In the first half we stood off them a little bit, and let them get the ball down but in the second half we were in their faces and I think we could have won if we’d pushed on a little bit harder.
“We had a couple of good chances, and I had a goal disallowed, which I thought was a bit harsh, I thought I was onside.
“I felt if the game had gone on a little bit longer we would have won it.
“In the end, we settled for the draw. Against a team from the league above us, that’s a good result.
“Now we’ve got an excellent chance going down there to Gigg Lane.
“We’ve got to go there with confidence, start the game like we finished on Saturday and we might surprise a few people.
“Spirits are high at the club right now, the banter and morale are good.
“Dickie (Ord) gets us fired up for every game, and as long as we can keep this squad together and everybody fit, I think we can give it a good push in the Trophy and in the league.
“The money involved in the Trophy is obviously very important for a club like this, and the further we go in the competition the higher the standard of the opposition.
“People work their backsides off here to keep the club afloat so it’s important we keep our good form going.
“Two years ago the team that kept the club going won down there so it’ll be good to go back. If we play like we did on Saturday we’ll have a good chance.
“They’ll expect to win but there’s no fear among us, and nothing to lose.”
Meanwhile, City vice-chairman Ian Walker added: “We’ve got to take confidence from Saturday’s game.
“When you look at FC United, the spin-off of Manchester United, they’ve got big support but haven’t forgotten what we did down there two seasons ago when we went down and beat them 2-1 with a bunch of kids.
“That shows where we’ve come from, we’ve risen from the ashes and I think they respect us for that.
“We’re getting recognised now across the north of England and we’ll go there on Wednesday with confidence.
“If we’ve got a strong squad I firmly believe we can give them a good run for their money and pick up a win.”
by Steve Brown, Evening Chronicle
Nov 9 2011
Sunday, October 16, 2011
FC United of Manchester 2 Chester FC 3: Updated report including Neil Young reaction
Source: Chester Chronicle
GEORGE Horan scored an injury-time winner as Chester came from behind to beat 10-man FC United for the second time this season on an afternoon of great drama at Gigg Lane.
The captain rifled in from close range to earn the second-placed Blues the win they ultimately deserved from a match that more than lived up to its billing as the biggest in the league.
At one stage Neil Young’s side, who remain three points behind Premier Division pacesetters Northwich Victoria, looked to be heading for their first defeat in nine games after two-goal Carlos Roca cancelled out Chris Simm’s early opener.
But after Adam Jones was sent-off for two bookings in as many minutes, they finally made their dominance count as Simm netted his second before captain marvel Horan struck at the death.
Chester boss Young said: “It was a great spectacle for the sport and for the league. I’m standing here happy because we’ve won, but even if we would have lost 2-1 I still couldn’t have asked any more of my team apart from their finishing.
“They showed battling qualities to keep going in a very difficult arena in which their supporters – like our own – were fantastic. The atmosphere was incredible and I think our fans enjoyed it because for the first time away from home it was in a stadium that they were used to.”
The match, which kicked-off 15 minutes late because of traffic problems around the ground, exploded into life when the recalled Simm broke the deadlock within 90 seconds.
An outswinging corner from Matty McGinn – the other change to the team which started the midweek draw at Buxton – was delivered to perfection and Simm sent an unstoppable 10-yard header past the outstanding James Spencer.
It was no more than the Blues deserved for an impressive start, but the hosts weathered the early storm and tested John Danby with long-range attempts from Jake Cottrell and Roca.
But former Chester City goalkeeper Spencer remained the busier stopper and after he made a flying save from another Simm header, he breathed a huge sigh of relief when Iain Howard volleyed over and Horan managed to miss from almost underneath the crossbar.
Karl Marginson’s men needed a break and they got one in the 32nd minute when the referee awarded them a soft penalty for a push in the box by Alex Brown.
Roca sent Danby the wrong way to restore parity before the same player turned the game on its head with a sublime free kick five minutes later.
Horan was adjudged to have fouled Mike Norton 25 yards from goal and Roca did the rest with a wonderful effort that curled away from Danby and into the top corner.
The winger came desperately close completing his hat-trick seconds into the start of the second half, but from that moment on it was the home goal which lived a charmed life.
In a relentless period of pressure top-scorer Michael Powell somehow volleyed wide from five yards out, Spencer made top stops from Howard and McGinn, before Howard hammered against the post from 20 yards.
FC United were rocking and their cause wasn’t helped when centre-back Jones collected two yellow cards in quick succession, the second coming in the 63rd minute for hauling Simm down when he was through on goal.
Blues boss Young threw on strikers Michael Wilde and Jamie Rainford, but it was his earlier replacement, Wes Baynes, who was to make the most impact.
The right-back sent over a 78th-minute cross which found Horan in space at the back post. Although the centre-back’s header was kept out by Spencer, Simm was on hand to tap in the equaliser and his fifth goal of the season.
And after Rainford and Matty Wolfenden missed golden opportunities at either end, better was to come at the death.
Another Baynes free kick caused chaos in the box and there was Horan to smash in his second goal of the campaign and bring a fitting end to a match which had everything.
FC United: Spencer, Jacobs, Jones, Stott, Neville, Wolfenden, Cottrell, Carr, Roca (Chadwick 63), Deegan (Mulholland 82), Norton. Subs: Platt, Battersby, Grimshaw.
Booked: Jones.
Sent-off: Jones 63.
Goals: Roca 32pen, 37.
Chester: Danby, Brownhill (Baynes 57), Horan, Taylor, McGinn, Booth (Rainford 68), Powell, Brown, Howard, Simm, McNeil (Wilde 68). Subs: Ormrod, Judge.
Booked: Taylor, Brown, Horan, Powell.
Goals: Simm 2, 78, Horan 90.
Oct 16 2011 by Paul Wheelock, Chester Chronicle
GEORGE Horan scored an injury-time winner as Chester came from behind to beat 10-man FC United for the second time this season on an afternoon of great drama at Gigg Lane.
The captain rifled in from close range to earn the second-placed Blues the win they ultimately deserved from a match that more than lived up to its billing as the biggest in the league.
At one stage Neil Young’s side, who remain three points behind Premier Division pacesetters Northwich Victoria, looked to be heading for their first defeat in nine games after two-goal Carlos Roca cancelled out Chris Simm’s early opener.
But after Adam Jones was sent-off for two bookings in as many minutes, they finally made their dominance count as Simm netted his second before captain marvel Horan struck at the death.
Chester boss Young said: “It was a great spectacle for the sport and for the league. I’m standing here happy because we’ve won, but even if we would have lost 2-1 I still couldn’t have asked any more of my team apart from their finishing.
“They showed battling qualities to keep going in a very difficult arena in which their supporters – like our own – were fantastic. The atmosphere was incredible and I think our fans enjoyed it because for the first time away from home it was in a stadium that they were used to.”
The match, which kicked-off 15 minutes late because of traffic problems around the ground, exploded into life when the recalled Simm broke the deadlock within 90 seconds.
An outswinging corner from Matty McGinn – the other change to the team which started the midweek draw at Buxton – was delivered to perfection and Simm sent an unstoppable 10-yard header past the outstanding James Spencer.
It was no more than the Blues deserved for an impressive start, but the hosts weathered the early storm and tested John Danby with long-range attempts from Jake Cottrell and Roca.
But former Chester City goalkeeper Spencer remained the busier stopper and after he made a flying save from another Simm header, he breathed a huge sigh of relief when Iain Howard volleyed over and Horan managed to miss from almost underneath the crossbar.
Karl Marginson’s men needed a break and they got one in the 32nd minute when the referee awarded them a soft penalty for a push in the box by Alex Brown.
Roca sent Danby the wrong way to restore parity before the same player turned the game on its head with a sublime free kick five minutes later.
Horan was adjudged to have fouled Mike Norton 25 yards from goal and Roca did the rest with a wonderful effort that curled away from Danby and into the top corner.
The winger came desperately close completing his hat-trick seconds into the start of the second half, but from that moment on it was the home goal which lived a charmed life.
In a relentless period of pressure top-scorer Michael Powell somehow volleyed wide from five yards out, Spencer made top stops from Howard and McGinn, before Howard hammered against the post from 20 yards.
FC United were rocking and their cause wasn’t helped when centre-back Jones collected two yellow cards in quick succession, the second coming in the 63rd minute for hauling Simm down when he was through on goal.
Blues boss Young threw on strikers Michael Wilde and Jamie Rainford, but it was his earlier replacement, Wes Baynes, who was to make the most impact.
The right-back sent over a 78th-minute cross which found Horan in space at the back post. Although the centre-back’s header was kept out by Spencer, Simm was on hand to tap in the equaliser and his fifth goal of the season.
And after Rainford and Matty Wolfenden missed golden opportunities at either end, better was to come at the death.
Another Baynes free kick caused chaos in the box and there was Horan to smash in his second goal of the campaign and bring a fitting end to a match which had everything.
FC United: Spencer, Jacobs, Jones, Stott, Neville, Wolfenden, Cottrell, Carr, Roca (Chadwick 63), Deegan (Mulholland 82), Norton. Subs: Platt, Battersby, Grimshaw.
Booked: Jones.
Sent-off: Jones 63.
Goals: Roca 32pen, 37.
Chester: Danby, Brownhill (Baynes 57), Horan, Taylor, McGinn, Booth (Rainford 68), Powell, Brown, Howard, Simm, McNeil (Wilde 68). Subs: Ormrod, Judge.
Booked: Taylor, Brown, Horan, Powell.
Goals: Simm 2, 78, Horan 90.
Oct 16 2011 by Paul Wheelock, Chester Chronicle
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Chester FC: Midfield battle key to beating FC United of Manchester, says Neil Young
Source: Chester Chronicle
NEIL Young believes winning the midfield battle will be key to Chester FC beating FC United of Manchester for the second time this season.
The Blues stopped the Red Rebels from dictating the tempo in August’s meeting between the fan-owned clubs – and Young will ask his team to do the same at Gigg Lane on Saturday (3pm).
The Chester boss said: “FC United are one of the best passing sides in the division so we’ve got to make sure we don’t allow them to play.
“Their three midfielders like to get on the ball and dictate the play so it’s up to us to get about them early doors, get a foothold in the game and then go for the win I fully believe we can get.”
FC United have made a underwhelming start to the season, losing five of their first 14 matches.
But Young still regards them as rivals for promotion and victory over Frickley Athletic on Tuesday extended their unbeaten league run to four matches.
Young, who sent chief scout Alex Hay to watch Karl Marginson’s men in action at Frickley, said: “It’s the biggest game in the league as we are the two biggest clubs in terms of our fan bases.
“I’m sure both sets of supporters would like to win the game – we’ve just got to make sure it’s us as we want to take advantage of the fact that some of the teams are not playing as they’re in the FA Cup.”
The Blues stretched their winning run to eight matches on Saturday with a last-gasp victory over Chasetown.
Their form is made more impressive given Young has only 14 fully fit senior players, including back-up goalkeeper Adam Judge, to choose from.
Former FC United winger Jerome Wright, Christian Smith and Ashley Williams remain sidelined – although all three should be back within a month – while Matty McGinn is struggling with a sore calf. The left-back was likely to be a substitute at best for last night’s trip to Buxton, which was played after The Chronicle went to press.
Oct 13 2011 by Paul Wheelock, Chester Chronicle
NEIL Young believes winning the midfield battle will be key to Chester FC beating FC United of Manchester for the second time this season.
The Blues stopped the Red Rebels from dictating the tempo in August’s meeting between the fan-owned clubs – and Young will ask his team to do the same at Gigg Lane on Saturday (3pm).
The Chester boss said: “FC United are one of the best passing sides in the division so we’ve got to make sure we don’t allow them to play.
“Their three midfielders like to get on the ball and dictate the play so it’s up to us to get about them early doors, get a foothold in the game and then go for the win I fully believe we can get.”
FC United have made a underwhelming start to the season, losing five of their first 14 matches.
But Young still regards them as rivals for promotion and victory over Frickley Athletic on Tuesday extended their unbeaten league run to four matches.
Young, who sent chief scout Alex Hay to watch Karl Marginson’s men in action at Frickley, said: “It’s the biggest game in the league as we are the two biggest clubs in terms of our fan bases.
“I’m sure both sets of supporters would like to win the game – we’ve just got to make sure it’s us as we want to take advantage of the fact that some of the teams are not playing as they’re in the FA Cup.”
The Blues stretched their winning run to eight matches on Saturday with a last-gasp victory over Chasetown.
Their form is made more impressive given Young has only 14 fully fit senior players, including back-up goalkeeper Adam Judge, to choose from.
Former FC United winger Jerome Wright, Christian Smith and Ashley Williams remain sidelined – although all three should be back within a month – while Matty McGinn is struggling with a sore calf. The left-back was likely to be a substitute at best for last night’s trip to Buxton, which was played after The Chronicle went to press.
Oct 13 2011 by Paul Wheelock, Chester Chronicle
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Chester FC 2 FC United of Manchester 1: Impressive Blues bounce back in style
Source: Chester Chronicle
CHESTER produced their best performance of the season to win the battle of the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League big boys at an electric Exacta Stadium.
Debutant Matty McGinn and top-scorer Matty McNeil fired the Blues into a thoroughly deserved two-goal lead before FC United reduced the deficit to set up a tense finale.
Mike Norton’s 81st-minute header shredded the nerves of the home supporters in the bumper 3,219 crowd, but Neil Young’s team kept their composure to bounce back from their defeat to Hednesford Town on Saturday.
Showing four changes to the side that were beaten late on at Keys Park, Chester were at it from the off and the visitors could have no complaints with the final outcome.
But it was Karl Marginson’s men who started the brighter as Matthew Wolfenden hit the outside of the post from the edge of the area with five minutes on the clock.
Former Wrexham striker Wolfenden was causing plenty of problems at the tip of a midfield diamond. But the hosts – and the excellent Michael Powell in particular – soon got to grips with him, so much so that FC United boss Marginson totally changed his formation eight minutes before the break by making a double substitution.
By that time the Blues were well on top and leading through McGinn’s 17th-minute penalty.
The left-back, who was named man of the match in his first appearance since signing on loan from Southport, sent James Spencer the wrong way after Lee Neville brought the livewire Chris Simm down in the box.
After McNeil headed on to the bar, the advantage was doubled one minute into first half added time.
Goalkeeper John Danby’s long kick was headed into the danger area by captain George Horan and McNeil was on hand to turn in his third goal in four matches from close range.
Chester were rampant and Simm would have added a third moments later had the ball not got stuck under in his foot with the goal at his mercy.
FC United came into the game the restart, but their goal continued to live a charmed life.
Spencer saved from McNeil after a lovely move involving Alex Brown and the impressive Liam Brownhill before Horan cracked the post with an 18-yard drive.
It came against the run of play, then, when Norton nodded in Carlos Roca’s corner nine minutes from time.
The Blues were now under the cosh, but they stood firm and Danby did well to turn Jake Cottrell’s long-range effort around the post in what was the last meaningful shot of an enthralling match.
Chester: Danby, Brownhill, Horan, Smith, McGinn, Booth (Baynes 87), Powell, Brown, Wright (Howard 64), Simm (Reed 83), McNeil. Subs: Rainford, Taylor.
Booked: Brownhill, Simm, McGinn.
Goals: McGinn 17, McNeil 45.
FC United: Spencer, Battersby, Jones, Stott, Neville, Carr (Roca 38), Cottrell, Platt (Grimshaw 73), Wolfenden, Deegan (Torpey 38), Norton. Subs: Metcalfe, Chadwick.
Booked: Neville, Battersby.
Referee: Jonathan Hunt (Liverpool).
Attendance: 3,219.
CHESTER produced their best performance of the season to win the battle of the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League big boys at an electric Exacta Stadium.
Debutant Matty McGinn and top-scorer Matty McNeil fired the Blues into a thoroughly deserved two-goal lead before FC United reduced the deficit to set up a tense finale.
Mike Norton’s 81st-minute header shredded the nerves of the home supporters in the bumper 3,219 crowd, but Neil Young’s team kept their composure to bounce back from their defeat to Hednesford Town on Saturday.
Showing four changes to the side that were beaten late on at Keys Park, Chester were at it from the off and the visitors could have no complaints with the final outcome.
But it was Karl Marginson’s men who started the brighter as Matthew Wolfenden hit the outside of the post from the edge of the area with five minutes on the clock.
Former Wrexham striker Wolfenden was causing plenty of problems at the tip of a midfield diamond. But the hosts – and the excellent Michael Powell in particular – soon got to grips with him, so much so that FC United boss Marginson totally changed his formation eight minutes before the break by making a double substitution.
By that time the Blues were well on top and leading through McGinn’s 17th-minute penalty.
The left-back, who was named man of the match in his first appearance since signing on loan from Southport, sent James Spencer the wrong way after Lee Neville brought the livewire Chris Simm down in the box.
After McNeil headed on to the bar, the advantage was doubled one minute into first half added time.
Goalkeeper John Danby’s long kick was headed into the danger area by captain George Horan and McNeil was on hand to turn in his third goal in four matches from close range.
Chester were rampant and Simm would have added a third moments later had the ball not got stuck under in his foot with the goal at his mercy.
FC United came into the game the restart, but their goal continued to live a charmed life.
Spencer saved from McNeil after a lovely move involving Alex Brown and the impressive Liam Brownhill before Horan cracked the post with an 18-yard drive.
It came against the run of play, then, when Norton nodded in Carlos Roca’s corner nine minutes from time.
The Blues were now under the cosh, but they stood firm and Danby did well to turn Jake Cottrell’s long-range effort around the post in what was the last meaningful shot of an enthralling match.
Chester: Danby, Brownhill, Horan, Smith, McGinn, Booth (Baynes 87), Powell, Brown, Wright (Howard 64), Simm (Reed 83), McNeil. Subs: Rainford, Taylor.
Booked: Brownhill, Simm, McGinn.
Goals: McGinn 17, McNeil 45.
FC United: Spencer, Battersby, Jones, Stott, Neville, Carr (Roca 38), Cottrell, Platt (Grimshaw 73), Wolfenden, Deegan (Torpey 38), Norton. Subs: Metcalfe, Chadwick.
Booked: Neville, Battersby.
Referee: Jonathan Hunt (Liverpool).
Attendance: 3,219.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Chester FC 2 FC United of Manchester 1: Blues fightback to win Supporters Direct
Source: Chester Chronicle
By Paul Wheelock
TEENAGER Joe Ormrod enjoyed a dream debut as Chester staged a late fightback to beat their league rivals and claim their first silverware of the season.
The 16-year-old midfielder hammered home an unstoppable equaliser before fellow substitute Alex Brown tapped in to cap a dramatic comeback which ensured Neil Young’s men won the Supporters Direct Cup.
Young, however, was not entirely satisfied with the afternoon’s work. His biggest grievance was the reactions of his captain George Horan and star striker Michael Wilde after they were the victims of late challenges.
Both had cause for complaint but the Blues boss felt there could no excusing behaviour that would have seen the influential duo red-carded in a competitive fixture.
It has to be said, though, that at times this was a ‘friendly’ in only but name and there are sure to be a few scores to settle when the sides meet four games into the Evo-Stik League Premier Division season.
Lee Neville opened the scoring in the 31st minute but up until that point it was the hosts who looked the likelier as Wes Baynes twice stung the hands of James Spencer.
But a neat and tidy FC United team – whose line-up was close to their first-choice starting XI – weathered the storm and took the lead through left-back Neville, who headed home a Nicky Platt corner that Robbie Booth failed to clear.
Backed by a large and vocal support, the visitors began to dominate and Adam Judge did well to tip a Danny Stott 30-yard drive over the bar.
Chester’s response was to make eight changes at the break. Given the Manchester outfit began to follow suit shortly into the second half, it came as little surprise that the game died a death until a poor Martin Parker tackle on Wilde sparked the second melee of the afternoon.
Wilde, along with FC United captain Kyle Jacobs, was subsequently asked to leave the pitch. That gave Ormrod the chance to impress – and boy did he take it as he smashed in a stunning 22-yard strike into the top corner to level the contest in the 81st minute.
Three minutes later and the turnaround was complete.
A quick John Danby throw out found the marauding Mark Connolly, who advanced to the edge of the area before picking out Liam Brownhill.
It was the right pass and so was Brownhill’s as midfielder Brown had the simple task of stroking the ball into the net from four yards out.
And that was that, although Carlos Roca missed a glorious chance to equalise when he skipped past Danby but could only fire into the side-netting.
Chester FC: Judge (Danby 46), Stones (Brownhill 46), Horan, Taylor, C Williams (Marsh-Evans 46), Booth (Connolly 61), A Williams (Brown 46), Barnes (Powell 46), Baynes (Wright 46), Simm (Wilde 46, Ormrod 68)), Howard (Reed 46).
Goal: Ormrod 81, Brown 84.
FC United: Spencer, Jacobs (Grimshaw 68), Jones, Stott (Parker 60), Neville, Wolfenden, Platt (Holden 60), Cottrell, Metcalfe (Roca 46), Carrs (Battersby 60), Norton (Deegan 60). Subs: Ashton, Edwards, Devenney.
Goal: Neville 31.
Referee: M R Jones.
Attendance: 1,927.
By Paul Wheelock
TEENAGER Joe Ormrod enjoyed a dream debut as Chester staged a late fightback to beat their league rivals and claim their first silverware of the season.
The 16-year-old midfielder hammered home an unstoppable equaliser before fellow substitute Alex Brown tapped in to cap a dramatic comeback which ensured Neil Young’s men won the Supporters Direct Cup.
Young, however, was not entirely satisfied with the afternoon’s work. His biggest grievance was the reactions of his captain George Horan and star striker Michael Wilde after they were the victims of late challenges.
Both had cause for complaint but the Blues boss felt there could no excusing behaviour that would have seen the influential duo red-carded in a competitive fixture.
It has to be said, though, that at times this was a ‘friendly’ in only but name and there are sure to be a few scores to settle when the sides meet four games into the Evo-Stik League Premier Division season.
Lee Neville opened the scoring in the 31st minute but up until that point it was the hosts who looked the likelier as Wes Baynes twice stung the hands of James Spencer.
But a neat and tidy FC United team – whose line-up was close to their first-choice starting XI – weathered the storm and took the lead through left-back Neville, who headed home a Nicky Platt corner that Robbie Booth failed to clear.
Backed by a large and vocal support, the visitors began to dominate and Adam Judge did well to tip a Danny Stott 30-yard drive over the bar.
Chester’s response was to make eight changes at the break. Given the Manchester outfit began to follow suit shortly into the second half, it came as little surprise that the game died a death until a poor Martin Parker tackle on Wilde sparked the second melee of the afternoon.
Wilde, along with FC United captain Kyle Jacobs, was subsequently asked to leave the pitch. That gave Ormrod the chance to impress – and boy did he take it as he smashed in a stunning 22-yard strike into the top corner to level the contest in the 81st minute.
Three minutes later and the turnaround was complete.
A quick John Danby throw out found the marauding Mark Connolly, who advanced to the edge of the area before picking out Liam Brownhill.
It was the right pass and so was Brownhill’s as midfielder Brown had the simple task of stroking the ball into the net from four yards out.
And that was that, although Carlos Roca missed a glorious chance to equalise when he skipped past Danby but could only fire into the side-netting.
Chester FC: Judge (Danby 46), Stones (Brownhill 46), Horan, Taylor, C Williams (Marsh-Evans 46), Booth (Connolly 61), A Williams (Brown 46), Barnes (Powell 46), Baynes (Wright 46), Simm (Wilde 46, Ormrod 68)), Howard (Reed 46).
Goal: Ormrod 81, Brown 84.
FC United: Spencer, Jacobs (Grimshaw 68), Jones, Stott (Parker 60), Neville, Wolfenden, Platt (Holden 60), Cottrell, Metcalfe (Roca 46), Carrs (Battersby 60), Norton (Deegan 60). Subs: Ashton, Edwards, Devenney.
Goal: Neville 31.
Referee: M R Jones.
Attendance: 1,927.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
FC United of Manchester clash centrepiece of Supporters Direct Fans’ Weekend
Source: Chester Chronicle
By Paul Wheelock
CHESTER FCs pre-season friendly with FC United of Manchester on Saturday is the centrepiece of a footballing conference which will bring one of the sports leading officials to the city.
UEFAs William Gaillard is the star attraction of the annual Fans Weekend this year held in Chester and hosted by Supporters Direct the organisation which helped set up fan-owned clubs like the Blues and FC United.
Gaillard, a special advisor to UEFA president Michel Platini, will tomorrow deliver a keynote speech at The Queen Hotel on City Road before the focus switches to the Exacta Stadium when Chester do battle with their league rivals for the Supporters Direct Cup (3pm).
But even though there is silverware at stake, Blues boss Neil Young and his FC United counterpart Karl Marginson are likely to treat the match with caution.
When the Evo-Stik League Premier Division fixtures were released yesterday the clubs discovered they will meet just four games into the season. Therefore it seems highly unlikely either manager will want to show his hand.
A marquee will be erected in the car park at the Exacta alongside a bar and a barbecue and from noon onwards speakers including leading football journalist David Conn will give talks.
Chester director Jeff Banks said: Chester FC are extremely proud that Supporters Direct have chosen Chester as the centrepiece for this years Fans Weekend. We received tremendous support from the organisation when reforming the club and we wouldnt have enjoyed much of the success that we have experienced if it hadnt have been for their help.
Its also fantastic that two of our directors, Chris Pilsbury and Mark Howell, have been invited to speak.
Admission to the match is s10 adults, s7 concessions and s4 juniors with a percentage going to Supporters Direct and the Homeless World Cup.
For more information on the Supporters Direct Fans Weekend, which includes a comedy night at The Queen Hotel hosted by Chester-born comedian Bob Mills, see www.supporters-direct.org
By Paul Wheelock
CHESTER FCs pre-season friendly with FC United of Manchester on Saturday is the centrepiece of a footballing conference which will bring one of the sports leading officials to the city.
UEFAs William Gaillard is the star attraction of the annual Fans Weekend this year held in Chester and hosted by Supporters Direct the organisation which helped set up fan-owned clubs like the Blues and FC United.
Gaillard, a special advisor to UEFA president Michel Platini, will tomorrow deliver a keynote speech at The Queen Hotel on City Road before the focus switches to the Exacta Stadium when Chester do battle with their league rivals for the Supporters Direct Cup (3pm).
But even though there is silverware at stake, Blues boss Neil Young and his FC United counterpart Karl Marginson are likely to treat the match with caution.
When the Evo-Stik League Premier Division fixtures were released yesterday the clubs discovered they will meet just four games into the season. Therefore it seems highly unlikely either manager will want to show his hand.
A marquee will be erected in the car park at the Exacta alongside a bar and a barbecue and from noon onwards speakers including leading football journalist David Conn will give talks.
Chester director Jeff Banks said: Chester FC are extremely proud that Supporters Direct have chosen Chester as the centrepiece for this years Fans Weekend. We received tremendous support from the organisation when reforming the club and we wouldnt have enjoyed much of the success that we have experienced if it hadnt have been for their help.
Its also fantastic that two of our directors, Chris Pilsbury and Mark Howell, have been invited to speak.
Admission to the match is s10 adults, s7 concessions and s4 juniors with a percentage going to Supporters Direct and the Homeless World Cup.
For more information on the Supporters Direct Fans Weekend, which includes a comedy night at The Queen Hotel hosted by Chester-born comedian Bob Mills, see www.supporters-direct.org
Thursday, July 07, 2011
Welsh Premier League: Airbus UK Broughton ready for FC United of Manchester
Source: Chester Chronicle
AIRBUS UK Broughton truly get their pre-season preparations under way on Saturday when they welcome Chester FC’s league rivals FC United of Manchester to the Airfield (3pm).
The Wingmakers, who beat lower-league Ruthin Town 7-0 in a low-key friendly on Tuesday, have been given a boost on the eve of the clash by the news that three key players have committed their futures to the club.
Right-back Ryan Edwards and centre-back Matty Woodward have signed one-year contracts while midfielder Danny Desormeaux has put pen to paper on a two-year deal.
Airbus director of football Craig Harrison has also convinced the versatile Mark Cadwallader to return to the club from Rhyl, as well as signing Cefn Druids midfielder Josh Griffiths and former Tranmere Rovers youth team striker Ross Rule, who is the younger brother of fellow new boy and former Chester City defender Glenn.
Two more new arrivals, Craig Whitfield (2) and Mike Hayes, were on target in the convincing victory over Huws Gray Alliance outfit Ruthin.
Hat-trick hero Ian Sheridan and Paul McManus shared the rest of the strikes for the Wingmakers, who will kick-off their Welsh Premier League campaign at home to Port Talbot Town on Saturday, August 13.
But first up for Harrison’s men is the visit of FC United.
Admission for Saturday’s friendly costs £6 for adults, £3 for concessions and £1 for under 16s accompanied by an adult.
Airbus will also host Luton Town, Morecambe and a Wolverhampton Wanderers XI in pre-season.
AIRBUS UK Broughton truly get their pre-season preparations under way on Saturday when they welcome Chester FC’s league rivals FC United of Manchester to the Airfield (3pm).
The Wingmakers, who beat lower-league Ruthin Town 7-0 in a low-key friendly on Tuesday, have been given a boost on the eve of the clash by the news that three key players have committed their futures to the club.
Right-back Ryan Edwards and centre-back Matty Woodward have signed one-year contracts while midfielder Danny Desormeaux has put pen to paper on a two-year deal.
Airbus director of football Craig Harrison has also convinced the versatile Mark Cadwallader to return to the club from Rhyl, as well as signing Cefn Druids midfielder Josh Griffiths and former Tranmere Rovers youth team striker Ross Rule, who is the younger brother of fellow new boy and former Chester City defender Glenn.
Two more new arrivals, Craig Whitfield (2) and Mike Hayes, were on target in the convincing victory over Huws Gray Alliance outfit Ruthin.
Hat-trick hero Ian Sheridan and Paul McManus shared the rest of the strikes for the Wingmakers, who will kick-off their Welsh Premier League campaign at home to Port Talbot Town on Saturday, August 13.
But first up for Harrison’s men is the visit of FC United.
Admission for Saturday’s friendly costs £6 for adults, £3 for concessions and £1 for under 16s accompanied by an adult.
Airbus will also host Luton Town, Morecambe and a Wolverhampton Wanderers XI in pre-season.
Friday, October 01, 2010
Chester FC: Blues sign former FC United of Manchester hitman Kyle Wilson
Source: Chester Chronicle
By Paul Wheelock
BLUES boss Neil Young tonight pulled off another major transfer coup by completing the capture of former FC United of Manchester goal-machine Kyle Wilson.
The 24-year-old striker goes straight into the squad for Saturday’s clash with Prescot Cables at the Exacta Stadium (3pm).
Wilson, who started his career at Crewe Alexandra, was one of the top-scorers in the 2008-09 Evo-Stik League Premier Division campaign, with his stunning return of 24 goals in 32 games earning him a move from FC United to the Football League with Macclesfield Town.
The move did not work out, however, and he was released by the Silkmen at the end of last season.
Young – still waiting on a decision from Southport defender Rob Marsh-Evans – wanted Wilson in the summer before he signed for Hyde United in the Blue Square North.
But having gone to watch Wilson on Monday night, Young has now got his man.
By Paul Wheelock
BLUES boss Neil Young tonight pulled off another major transfer coup by completing the capture of former FC United of Manchester goal-machine Kyle Wilson.
The 24-year-old striker goes straight into the squad for Saturday’s clash with Prescot Cables at the Exacta Stadium (3pm).
Wilson, who started his career at Crewe Alexandra, was one of the top-scorers in the 2008-09 Evo-Stik League Premier Division campaign, with his stunning return of 24 goals in 32 games earning him a move from FC United to the Football League with Macclesfield Town.
The move did not work out, however, and he was released by the Silkmen at the end of last season.
Young – still waiting on a decision from Southport defender Rob Marsh-Evans – wanted Wilson in the summer before he signed for Hyde United in the Blue Square North.
But having gone to watch Wilson on Monday night, Young has now got his man.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Chester 3 FC United 3
Source: Chester Chronicle
Aug 11 2010 by David Triggs, Chester Chronicle
A STIRRING comeback saw the Blues earn a thrilling draw with FC United of Manchester at the Deva Stadium tonight.
The visitors forged into a 3-0 lead and looked set to run away with the match. But Chester refused to be beaten and drew level with a Michael Wilde brace and a late strike from Mark Connolly, who saw his corner kick deflected into the net by FC United’s sub keeper Sam Ashton.
It was exciting stuff and a healthy pre-season crowd of 1,762 left the Deva Stadium having been thoroughly entertained.
Chester could not have got off to a worse start. In the first 10 minutes, they fell 2-0 down and lost skipper George Horan to injury.
There were only five minutes on the clock when FC United took the lead. Jerome Wright scampered down Chester’s left flank and crossed for Mike Norton, who tapped home from close range after the ball took a slight deflection and fell perfectly into his stride.
Horan hobbled off on eight minutes – replaced by Danny Meadowcroft as a precautionary measure after injuring his ankle in a block tackle. Less than 60 seconds later, the Blues were 2-0 behind and facing a mountain to climb.
Michael Aspin’s slack pass fell to Norton, who saw a cheeky chipped shot come back off the crossbar with keeper Richard Whiteside well beaten. Chester had the chance to clear their lines but more poor defending allowed Ben Deegan to seize on the loose ball and fire a shot into the bottom corner.
It was mostly one-way traffic, with FC United keeping possession well and mounting some dangerous attacks. The threat from Chester was sporadic, with Iain Howard heading over and Wilde sending a lob on to the roof of the net from 18 yards.
Goal number three for the Manchester visitors came on 31 minutes when Deegan brushed aside Meadowcroft’s weak challenge and beat Whiteside with a low left-footed shot.
But Chester’s fans had something to cheer about three minutes before the break when their side pulled a goal back. Mark Peers whipped in a free-kick from tight on the left touchline and Wilde – running on to the ball unmarked and at pace – powered home a firm header.
The Blues had toiled with their 4-4-1-1 formation during the first half so boss Neil Young switched to a more conventional 4-4-2 for the second period, partnering sub Rob Hopley with Wilde in attack and pushing Andy Burgess into a central midfield role.
It took just eight minutes for the switch to pay off as Chester reduced the deficit to one goal, making it 3-2 Wilde was the man on target again, ramming home from close range after FC United keeper Zach Hibbert had spilled Howard’s fizzing 20-yard drive.
The goal set the tone for an exciting second half, with Chester pressing hard for an equaliser while FC United looked to score a killer fourth on the break.
Sub Anthony Sheehan must have thought he’d scored an equaliser on 65 minutes when his thumping left-foot volley from 20 yards arrowed in on goal, but Ashton showed sharp reflexes, stretching out to palm the ball to safety.
From the resulting corner, Connolly whipped a right-footed drive just past the post.
With 18 minutes to go, Young replaced Wilde with Josh Macauley, a former Tranmere Rovers striker who has been made an offer to join the Blues.
The equaliser the Blues had been pressing so hard for came 10 minutes from time. The impressive Connolly claimed it, but it may go down as an own goal as the midfielder’s in-swinging corner kick appeared to be punched into the net by FC United keeper Ashton.
Chester almost snatched a winner in the 90th minute. Hopley’s header was clawed out by Ashton and Burgess then pulled a shot agonisingly wide of the post.
Chester: Whiteside, Aspin (Sheehan 64), Williams (Hopley 46), Horan (Meadowcroft 8), Stones, Graves, Peers (Sharrock 68), Connolly, Burgess, Wilde (Macauley 72), Howard. Subs: Oldfield, Sheehan, Sharrock.
Attendance: 1,762 (329 away).
Aug 11 2010 by David Triggs, Chester Chronicle
A STIRRING comeback saw the Blues earn a thrilling draw with FC United of Manchester at the Deva Stadium tonight.
The visitors forged into a 3-0 lead and looked set to run away with the match. But Chester refused to be beaten and drew level with a Michael Wilde brace and a late strike from Mark Connolly, who saw his corner kick deflected into the net by FC United’s sub keeper Sam Ashton.
It was exciting stuff and a healthy pre-season crowd of 1,762 left the Deva Stadium having been thoroughly entertained.
Chester could not have got off to a worse start. In the first 10 minutes, they fell 2-0 down and lost skipper George Horan to injury.
There were only five minutes on the clock when FC United took the lead. Jerome Wright scampered down Chester’s left flank and crossed for Mike Norton, who tapped home from close range after the ball took a slight deflection and fell perfectly into his stride.
Horan hobbled off on eight minutes – replaced by Danny Meadowcroft as a precautionary measure after injuring his ankle in a block tackle. Less than 60 seconds later, the Blues were 2-0 behind and facing a mountain to climb.
Michael Aspin’s slack pass fell to Norton, who saw a cheeky chipped shot come back off the crossbar with keeper Richard Whiteside well beaten. Chester had the chance to clear their lines but more poor defending allowed Ben Deegan to seize on the loose ball and fire a shot into the bottom corner.
It was mostly one-way traffic, with FC United keeping possession well and mounting some dangerous attacks. The threat from Chester was sporadic, with Iain Howard heading over and Wilde sending a lob on to the roof of the net from 18 yards.
Goal number three for the Manchester visitors came on 31 minutes when Deegan brushed aside Meadowcroft’s weak challenge and beat Whiteside with a low left-footed shot.
But Chester’s fans had something to cheer about three minutes before the break when their side pulled a goal back. Mark Peers whipped in a free-kick from tight on the left touchline and Wilde – running on to the ball unmarked and at pace – powered home a firm header.
The Blues had toiled with their 4-4-1-1 formation during the first half so boss Neil Young switched to a more conventional 4-4-2 for the second period, partnering sub Rob Hopley with Wilde in attack and pushing Andy Burgess into a central midfield role.
It took just eight minutes for the switch to pay off as Chester reduced the deficit to one goal, making it 3-2 Wilde was the man on target again, ramming home from close range after FC United keeper Zach Hibbert had spilled Howard’s fizzing 20-yard drive.
The goal set the tone for an exciting second half, with Chester pressing hard for an equaliser while FC United looked to score a killer fourth on the break.
Sub Anthony Sheehan must have thought he’d scored an equaliser on 65 minutes when his thumping left-foot volley from 20 yards arrowed in on goal, but Ashton showed sharp reflexes, stretching out to palm the ball to safety.
From the resulting corner, Connolly whipped a right-footed drive just past the post.
With 18 minutes to go, Young replaced Wilde with Josh Macauley, a former Tranmere Rovers striker who has been made an offer to join the Blues.
The equaliser the Blues had been pressing so hard for came 10 minutes from time. The impressive Connolly claimed it, but it may go down as an own goal as the midfielder’s in-swinging corner kick appeared to be punched into the net by FC United keeper Ashton.
Chester almost snatched a winner in the 90th minute. Hopley’s header was clawed out by Ashton and Burgess then pulled a shot agonisingly wide of the post.
Chester: Whiteside, Aspin (Sheehan 64), Williams (Hopley 46), Horan (Meadowcroft 8), Stones, Graves, Peers (Sharrock 68), Connolly, Burgess, Wilde (Macauley 72), Howard. Subs: Oldfield, Sheehan, Sharrock.
Attendance: 1,762 (329 away).
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Chester FC: City Fans United Junior Blues members fly flag for ‘Chester FC’
Source: Chester Chronicle
Apr 29 2010
NEARLY 100 Blues supporters flew the flag for their new ‘Chester Football Club’ at FC United of Manchester’s Youth United Day on Saturday.
The City Fans United members, including 30 Junior Blues, were given a warm welcome by the 3,000-crowd at Bury’s Gigg Lane and wished luck in their quest to beat the Danes and gain the lease at the vacant Deva Stadium.
Proud parent Phil Spencer, of Elton, said: “It was very emotional, especially at the end of the game when the FC United fans stopped celebrating their own win to chant ‘Chester, Chester’.”
CFU community officer Mark Howell added: “The fantastic, family-friendly atmosphere would be something that we will be trying extremely hard to emulate should we be granted our wishes by the council.
“It was touching to see the reaction of other supporters to our children – the real spirit of football was there for everyone to see.”
CFU members are reminded that the group’s April meeting takes places at the Home Guard Club, Canal Street, Chester, tonight (8pm).
Apr 29 2010
NEARLY 100 Blues supporters flew the flag for their new ‘Chester Football Club’ at FC United of Manchester’s Youth United Day on Saturday.
The City Fans United members, including 30 Junior Blues, were given a warm welcome by the 3,000-crowd at Bury’s Gigg Lane and wished luck in their quest to beat the Danes and gain the lease at the vacant Deva Stadium.
Proud parent Phil Spencer, of Elton, said: “It was very emotional, especially at the end of the game when the FC United fans stopped celebrating their own win to chant ‘Chester, Chester’.”
CFU community officer Mark Howell added: “The fantastic, family-friendly atmosphere would be something that we will be trying extremely hard to emulate should we be granted our wishes by the council.
“It was touching to see the reaction of other supporters to our children – the real spirit of football was there for everyone to see.”
CFU members are reminded that the group’s April meeting takes places at the Home Guard Club, Canal Street, Chester, tonight (8pm).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
