Source: MEN
Salford City have drawn FC United in the second qualifying round of the FA Cup.
The sides will meet Saturday September 22 at Hurst Cross.
Curzon Ashton host Bradford (Park Avenue), while Altrincham travel to Shildon.
Ashton United were handed a home draw against Marine and Droylsden go to the winner of Ossett Town and Whitby Town.
Showing posts with label Manchester Evening News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Manchester Evening News. Show all posts
Monday, September 10, 2012
Thursday, September 06, 2012
Wolfenden’s Rebels winner
Source: MEN
FC United moved up to fourth in the Evo-Stik Premier Division with a 1-0 win at struggling Whitby Town, writes Chris Ostick.
A Matt Wolfenden strike in the 58th minute was enough to seal the points for the Rebels against a side still looking for their first win of the season.
An Aaron Burns goal three minutes from time earned Ashton United a 2-2 draw with AFC Fylde at Hurst Cross.
Mark Peers gave the Robins a first-half lead from the penalty spot after Ben Deegan was fouled in the box.
Jack Dorney and Richie Allen scored after the break, however, to give the visitors a lead, before Burns struck late on to leave Ashton third, two points behind leaders Marine.
Both sides now turn to the FA Cup first qualifying round where FC United play Cammell Laird at Gigg Lane on Sunday and Ashton travel to Prescot Cables on Saturday.
Chris Ostick
September 06, 2012
FC United moved up to fourth in the Evo-Stik Premier Division with a 1-0 win at struggling Whitby Town, writes Chris Ostick.
A Matt Wolfenden strike in the 58th minute was enough to seal the points for the Rebels against a side still looking for their first win of the season.
An Aaron Burns goal three minutes from time earned Ashton United a 2-2 draw with AFC Fylde at Hurst Cross.
Mark Peers gave the Robins a first-half lead from the penalty spot after Ben Deegan was fouled in the box.
Jack Dorney and Richie Allen scored after the break, however, to give the visitors a lead, before Burns struck late on to leave Ashton third, two points behind leaders Marine.
Both sides now turn to the FA Cup first qualifying round where FC United play Cammell Laird at Gigg Lane on Sunday and Ashton travel to Prescot Cables on Saturday.
Chris Ostick
September 06, 2012
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Security warning after FC United attacks
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.”
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.”
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.
Monday, August 20, 2012
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.
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.
Monday, June 18, 2012
FC United sign up MMU architecture students - to design dugouts at new stadium
Source: MEN
Architecture students will cut their teeth by designing snazzy dugouts for Manchester’s latest football stadium.
Trainee designers at Manchester Metropolitan University are being challenged to think outside the box when it comes to the traditional pitch-side shelters.
They will design eye-catching new dugouts for the £5m FC United stadium.
The community club, formed in protests at the Glazer family’s takeover of Manchester United, are building a 5,000-seat stadium on playing fields in Moston.
And a group of 180 second-year architecture students have been asked to come up with original ideas.
It follows a hands-on exercise last year, when MMU students were let loose at stately home Dunham Massey, creating a series of stunning extravagant garden ornaments. Lecturer Laura Sanderson said the new challenge would test students’ creativity.
She said: “We are working with the club to create two new dug outs. The brief to students will be that they need to break the mould and come up with an original idea.
“Although, we’re still at an early stage, we’d be looking to involve the community in getting their ideas about what they could look like.
“The project at Dunham Massey was really successful.
“Our students ended up creating six follies which were really eye-catching. It’s great experience for our students to see their ideas actually get fabricated.”
The Northern Premier League club, who currently use Bury FC’s Gigg Lane, hope to be in their new ground for the 2013/14 season.
But the move sparked a bitter row, with many people in Moston opposed to the location on the Ronald Johnson Playing Fields.
Council bosses gave permission for the building last October, despite more than 2,200 objections.
Sunday, May 06, 2012
Heartbreak for FC United
Source: MEN
FC United face a fifth season in Evo-Stik Premier after suffering play-off final heartbreak for the second year running.
The Rebels' dreams of rubbing shoulders with neighbours Altrincham, Droylsden and Stalybridge Celtic in Blue Square Bet North next term were dashed as they fell to a goal two minutes from the end of extra-time in a nailbiting promotion decider at Bradford Park Avenue.
A predictably tight encounter at the Horsfall Stadium appeared to be heading for a penalty shoot-out when Bradford sub Tom Greaves poked in a Matty James cross from point-blank range to wreck FC's bid for a fourth promotion in seven seasons - one which would have left them just two hops away from a place in League Two.
It was very much a case of deja vu for Karl Marginson's men, who lost by the same score in last season's play-off final at Colwyn Bay,
But Marginson offered no excuses for either the result or FC's below-par performance, saying: "It wasn't a great game, as is so often the case on occasions such as this, but fair play to Bradford, I thought they deserved to beat us on the day.
"The conditions weren't ideal as the pitch was very bumpy, but it was the same for both teams and Bradford coped better than we did.
"It will be difficult to pick the players up after this, but they're a great set of lads and I know they'll bounce back.
"I told them beforehand that I'm proud of their efforts this season. One defeat isn't going to change that even though we're all obviously bitterly disappointed to have once again fallen at the final hurdle."
FC suffered a major blow before kick-off when their ever-present keeper James Spencer was forced to pull out with a hand injury, forcing Marginson to give a debut to pre-deadline signing Jon Worsnop.
The Rebels had an early scare after Bradford's Richard Marshall had outfoxed Kyle Jacobs only to shoot narrowly wide.
Avenue dangerman Nick Boshell was next to threaten but fired a yard over after cutting inside onto his right foot.
Boshell was again off target when Worsnop's misdirected punch fell to him on the edge of the box.
Despite being driven on by Jake Cottrell, FC were struggling to find their rhythm, with star striker Mike Norton too often cutting a lone figure up front.
United had to wait until eight minutes before the break for their first effort on target but Bradford keeper John Lamb was equal to Adam Jones's header.
FC found themselves pushed back early in the second-half as Bradford continued to look the likelier to break the deadlock.
Marginson responded with a double substitution, replacing wide-men Carlos Roca and Stephen Johnson wth Nicky Platt and Astley Mulholland, but Bradford continued to hold the upper hand and FC's Lee Neville had to make a desperate clearance to ensure the 90 minutes ended goalless.
Norton had the ball in the net four minutes into extra-time, but the ref had already blown for a push.
Worsnop then saved bravely at Ross Daly's feet, while, 60 seconds later, Rebels sub Nicky Platt fluffed what proved to be their best opening when he contrived to fire over from no more than six yards out following fine work by Norton.
Penalties loomed after Greaves had spurned a golden opportunity for Bradford with just three minutes left, scooping over when it seemed he must score.
But there was still time for him to break FC's hearts with his dramatic late winner sending the home fans into raptures and leaving the visitors to mull over another wasted promotion chance.
Tony Glennon
FC United face a fifth season in Evo-Stik Premier after suffering play-off final heartbreak for the second year running.
The Rebels' dreams of rubbing shoulders with neighbours Altrincham, Droylsden and Stalybridge Celtic in Blue Square Bet North next term were dashed as they fell to a goal two minutes from the end of extra-time in a nailbiting promotion decider at Bradford Park Avenue.
A predictably tight encounter at the Horsfall Stadium appeared to be heading for a penalty shoot-out when Bradford sub Tom Greaves poked in a Matty James cross from point-blank range to wreck FC's bid for a fourth promotion in seven seasons - one which would have left them just two hops away from a place in League Two.
It was very much a case of deja vu for Karl Marginson's men, who lost by the same score in last season's play-off final at Colwyn Bay,
But Marginson offered no excuses for either the result or FC's below-par performance, saying: "It wasn't a great game, as is so often the case on occasions such as this, but fair play to Bradford, I thought they deserved to beat us on the day.
"The conditions weren't ideal as the pitch was very bumpy, but it was the same for both teams and Bradford coped better than we did.
"It will be difficult to pick the players up after this, but they're a great set of lads and I know they'll bounce back.
"I told them beforehand that I'm proud of their efforts this season. One defeat isn't going to change that even though we're all obviously bitterly disappointed to have once again fallen at the final hurdle."
FC suffered a major blow before kick-off when their ever-present keeper James Spencer was forced to pull out with a hand injury, forcing Marginson to give a debut to pre-deadline signing Jon Worsnop.
The Rebels had an early scare after Bradford's Richard Marshall had outfoxed Kyle Jacobs only to shoot narrowly wide.
Avenue dangerman Nick Boshell was next to threaten but fired a yard over after cutting inside onto his right foot.
Boshell was again off target when Worsnop's misdirected punch fell to him on the edge of the box.
Despite being driven on by Jake Cottrell, FC were struggling to find their rhythm, with star striker Mike Norton too often cutting a lone figure up front.
United had to wait until eight minutes before the break for their first effort on target but Bradford keeper John Lamb was equal to Adam Jones's header.
FC found themselves pushed back early in the second-half as Bradford continued to look the likelier to break the deadlock.
Marginson responded with a double substitution, replacing wide-men Carlos Roca and Stephen Johnson wth Nicky Platt and Astley Mulholland, but Bradford continued to hold the upper hand and FC's Lee Neville had to make a desperate clearance to ensure the 90 minutes ended goalless.
Norton had the ball in the net four minutes into extra-time, but the ref had already blown for a push.
Worsnop then saved bravely at Ross Daly's feet, while, 60 seconds later, Rebels sub Nicky Platt fluffed what proved to be their best opening when he contrived to fire over from no more than six yards out following fine work by Norton.
Penalties loomed after Greaves had spurned a golden opportunity for Bradford with just three minutes left, scooping over when it seemed he must score.
But there was still time for him to break FC's hearts with his dramatic late winner sending the home fans into raptures and leaving the visitors to mull over another wasted promotion chance.
Tony Glennon
Friday, May 04, 2012
Fans v billionaire owners: Academics gather in Manchester to debate ownership
A major summit in Manchester will discuss whether billionaire football club owners are turning local people away from the game.
More than 100 academics from around the world will attend the conference at Manchester Metropolitan University on June 1 and will look at different ways clubs are owned – such as global brands like Manchester United and fan-owned clubs like FC United.
In particular the academics will look at how Premiership clubs with international owners can remain rooted in local communities.
Conference organiser Deirdre Hynes, from Manchester Metropolitan University, said privately-owned clubs could enjoy huge investment from wealthy owners – but could face trouble if they walked away.
She said: “Many other European countries – particularly Germany and Spain – have different ownership models in which fans are heavily involved.
“Barcelona is an example. It is the most famous and successful club in the world where the fans are also the owners.
“Manchester United and Real Madrid are massive global brands in football and there is a debate in how big clubs re-engage with their communities.”
Dr Hynes, who researches football crowds and will be speaking at the event, is interviewing fans of FC United for a research project.
She said fan-owned clubs such as FC United could end up being more sustainable.
Dr Hynes added: “Placing the ownership of a club within the hands of the community could prolong the life of the club.
“Clubs with a large, wealthy owner are often dependent on their goodwill to make investment after investment.
“If they decide to withdraw their support, or take money out of the club. You have a huge problem. You only have to look at Rangers to see how things can go wrong.”
The experts will consider the commercial pressure on clubs and how Twitter and Facebook can keep clubs in contact with core fans. The conference – Football and the Community – was due to be held at the National Football Museum which doesn’t open until July 6.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Mike Norton fires Rebels into play-off final
Source: MEN
FC United boss Karl Marginson hailed striker Mike Norton after his stunning goal helped sink Chorley to secure a second successive Evo-Stik Premier play-off final appearance.
Norton broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute of a tight semi-final with a delicious curler before sub Astley Mulholland added a second to earn a trip to old foes Bradford Park Avenue.
“So often games such as this are decided by a scruffy goal, but Norts’ finish was straight out of the top drawer. He’s a born goalscorer,” Marginson said.
There was double play-off heartbreak in Tameside as Curzon Ashton lost in the Evo-Stik North final to Witton Albion while neighbours Stalybridge Celtic missed out on the Blue Square Bet North promotion knockout despite ending their season with a 4-2 win over Hinckley.
Newly-crowned champions Hyde signed off with a 1-1 draw at Histon.
Altrincham ended their campaign on a low note – tumbling 3-2 to play-off qualifiers Gainsborough at Moss Lane.
Droylsden wrapped up with a 5-2 rout of visiting Vauxhall Motors to finish ninth.
Stockport County concluded their first season in Blue Square Bet Premier by beating relegated Hayes and Yeading 2-1.
Ramsbottom clinched the North West Counties League title and promotion to Evo- Stik North by thrashing Winsford 5-2, Jon Robinson scoring twice.
FC United boss Karl Marginson hailed striker Mike Norton after his stunning goal helped sink Chorley to secure a second successive Evo-Stik Premier play-off final appearance.
Norton broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute of a tight semi-final with a delicious curler before sub Astley Mulholland added a second to earn a trip to old foes Bradford Park Avenue.
“So often games such as this are decided by a scruffy goal, but Norts’ finish was straight out of the top drawer. He’s a born goalscorer,” Marginson said.
There was double play-off heartbreak in Tameside as Curzon Ashton lost in the Evo-Stik North final to Witton Albion while neighbours Stalybridge Celtic missed out on the Blue Square Bet North promotion knockout despite ending their season with a 4-2 win over Hinckley.
Newly-crowned champions Hyde signed off with a 1-1 draw at Histon.
Altrincham ended their campaign on a low note – tumbling 3-2 to play-off qualifiers Gainsborough at Moss Lane.
Droylsden wrapped up with a 5-2 rout of visiting Vauxhall Motors to finish ninth.
Stockport County concluded their first season in Blue Square Bet Premier by beating relegated Hayes and Yeading 2-1.
Ramsbottom clinched the North West Counties League title and promotion to Evo- Stik North by thrashing Winsford 5-2, Jon Robinson scoring twice.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Rebels are out to gatecrash the promotion party
Source: MEN
Manager Karl Marginson insists FC United are good enough to seize the promotion lifeline the’ve been handed by the FA as they prepare to visit Garry Flitcroft’s Chorley in tomorrow’s Evo-Stik Premier play-off semi-finals.
FC narrowly missed out on automatic play-off qualification but have replaced runners-up Northwich in the four-team promotion knockout after the Cheshire club’s exclusion for financial reasons was confirmed this week.
The Rebels now travel to Victory Park to face a Chorley side who finished seven points above them in third, with the winners to then visit either Bradford Park Avenue or Hednesford to decide who accompanies champions Chester in going up to Blue Square Bet North.
FC will start as outsiders but Marginson is backing his players to cash in on their stroke of good fortune and make amends for the Rebels’ defeat to Colwyn Bay in last season’s play-off final.
The United chief said: “It’s a big relief for us just to be in the play-offs, but, now that we are, I genuinely feel we can win them.
“Chorley are a quality side, but we’ve beaten not only them but also Bradford and Hednesford on their own gounds this season so I’m sure none of them will fancy meeting us again.”
Heartbreak
Marginson is also boosted by having a full-strength squad at his disposal, centre-half Adam Jones having recovered from the pulled hamstring which forced him to miss FC's 4-1 romp over Northwich last weekend.
Meanwhile, Curzon Ashton will be out to end four years of promotion heartbreak when they take on Witton Albion in the Evo-Stik North play-off final at the Tameside Stadium.
Having lost in four successive play-offs, the Nash, who finished just two points above Witton as runners-up to promoted champions AFC Fylde, will be seeking to triumph at the fifth attempt and finally secure a place in Evo-Stik Premier.
Stalybridge Celtic must beat visiting Hinckley in their final Blue Square Bet North outing to give themselves a chance of becoming the third local club to land a play-off spot.
Newly-crowned champions Hyde sign off with a trip to Histon, where they aim to round off an historic campaign with a seventh successive victory before making the big step-up to the Conference's national tier.
Altrincham and Droylsden both end the season with home games, the Robins hosting Gainsborough while the Bloods receive Vauxhall Motors.
Stockport County’s closing-day clash at relegated Hayes and Yeading in Blue Square Bet Premier is a 1pm kick-off.
Ramsbottom will be North West Counties League champions if they beat visiting Winsford, but failure could see them pipped to the title by Runcorn.
Manager Karl Marginson insists FC United are good enough to seize the promotion lifeline the’ve been handed by the FA as they prepare to visit Garry Flitcroft’s Chorley in tomorrow’s Evo-Stik Premier play-off semi-finals.
FC narrowly missed out on automatic play-off qualification but have replaced runners-up Northwich in the four-team promotion knockout after the Cheshire club’s exclusion for financial reasons was confirmed this week.
The Rebels now travel to Victory Park to face a Chorley side who finished seven points above them in third, with the winners to then visit either Bradford Park Avenue or Hednesford to decide who accompanies champions Chester in going up to Blue Square Bet North.
FC will start as outsiders but Marginson is backing his players to cash in on their stroke of good fortune and make amends for the Rebels’ defeat to Colwyn Bay in last season’s play-off final.
The United chief said: “It’s a big relief for us just to be in the play-offs, but, now that we are, I genuinely feel we can win them.
“Chorley are a quality side, but we’ve beaten not only them but also Bradford and Hednesford on their own gounds this season so I’m sure none of them will fancy meeting us again.”
Heartbreak
Marginson is also boosted by having a full-strength squad at his disposal, centre-half Adam Jones having recovered from the pulled hamstring which forced him to miss FC's 4-1 romp over Northwich last weekend.
Meanwhile, Curzon Ashton will be out to end four years of promotion heartbreak when they take on Witton Albion in the Evo-Stik North play-off final at the Tameside Stadium.
Having lost in four successive play-offs, the Nash, who finished just two points above Witton as runners-up to promoted champions AFC Fylde, will be seeking to triumph at the fifth attempt and finally secure a place in Evo-Stik Premier.
Stalybridge Celtic must beat visiting Hinckley in their final Blue Square Bet North outing to give themselves a chance of becoming the third local club to land a play-off spot.
Newly-crowned champions Hyde sign off with a trip to Histon, where they aim to round off an historic campaign with a seventh successive victory before making the big step-up to the Conference's national tier.
Altrincham and Droylsden both end the season with home games, the Robins hosting Gainsborough while the Bloods receive Vauxhall Motors.
Stockport County’s closing-day clash at relegated Hayes and Yeading in Blue Square Bet Premier is a 1pm kick-off.
Ramsbottom will be North West Counties League champions if they beat visiting Winsford, but failure could see them pipped to the title by Runcorn.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Rebels take over Vics' berth in the play-offs
Source: MEN
FC United are to take part in the Evo-Stik Premier promotion play-offs after all – despite having failed to qualify in their own right.
The Rebels, who just missed out on a top-five qualification spot in finishing sixth, are now preparing for a semi-final trip to Garry Flitcroft’s Chorley on Saturday.
It comes after league bosses last night confirmed FC are to take the place of runners-up Northwich Victoria in the contest to decide who accompanies champions Chester in going up to Blue Square Bet North.
The league management’s announcement follows an FA appeal panel decision to support their move to bar Vics from the play-offs for breaking three of the competition’s financial rules.
Northwich have, however, won their fight against expulsion from the league on the same grounds, with the FA ruling they should instead be relegated to either Evo-Stik North or South.
Meanwhile, at a separate Wembley hearing, the FA rejected Woodley Sports’ appeal against being booted out of Evo-Stik North following their failure to achieve the necessary ground grading.
The Stockport club, whose Neil Rourke Stadium is currently undergoing an £8.6m re-development, will now be relegated to a level to be determined by the FA.
Stalybridge Celtic’s bid to win the Cheshire Senior Cup for the first time in 11 years ended in heartache as they crashed 1-0 to Nantwich in last night’s final at Chester’s Deva Stadium.
Bridge fell to Michael Lennon’s 26th-minute strike but wasted a host of chances to equalise with Rhys Meynell hitting the bar and Dennis Sheriff pulling a shot wide when it seemed he must score.
FC United are to take part in the Evo-Stik Premier promotion play-offs after all – despite having failed to qualify in their own right.
The Rebels, who just missed out on a top-five qualification spot in finishing sixth, are now preparing for a semi-final trip to Garry Flitcroft’s Chorley on Saturday.
It comes after league bosses last night confirmed FC are to take the place of runners-up Northwich Victoria in the contest to decide who accompanies champions Chester in going up to Blue Square Bet North.
The league management’s announcement follows an FA appeal panel decision to support their move to bar Vics from the play-offs for breaking three of the competition’s financial rules.
Northwich have, however, won their fight against expulsion from the league on the same grounds, with the FA ruling they should instead be relegated to either Evo-Stik North or South.
Meanwhile, at a separate Wembley hearing, the FA rejected Woodley Sports’ appeal against being booted out of Evo-Stik North following their failure to achieve the necessary ground grading.
The Stockport club, whose Neil Rourke Stadium is currently undergoing an £8.6m re-development, will now be relegated to a level to be determined by the FA.
Stalybridge Celtic’s bid to win the Cheshire Senior Cup for the first time in 11 years ended in heartache as they crashed 1-0 to Nantwich in last night’s final at Chester’s Deva Stadium.
Bridge fell to Michael Lennon’s 26th-minute strike but wasted a host of chances to equalise with Rhys Meynell hitting the bar and Dennis Sheriff pulling a shot wide when it seemed he must score.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Former FC United ballboy Ben Obiora dies aged 16 after collapsing on football pitch
 |
| Ben Obiora , 16, died after he collapsed on a football pitch during a match on Saturday |
A teenage footballer died after collapsing while playing for his team.
Asthma sufferer Ben Obiora, 16, fell to the pitch during a match. Attempts were made to resuscitate the former FC United ballboy in front of horrified teammates – but they proved unsuccessful and he died after being airlifted to hospital.
Devastated pals have flocked to pay tribute to Ben, who was from New Mills, Derbyshire.
He was described as ‘a terrific young man who loved his football and always had a smile’.
Ben was playing for New Mills Reserves in a match against Blazing Rag in the Hope Valley League on Saturday.
More than 1,000 people have joined a tribute page on Facebook and his school, St Thomas More in Buxton, was opened for stunned former class mates to pay their respects.
Jane Newman wrote: “So shocked and devastated by this tragic news. Ben, you were a bright, charming and cheeky young man.
“You had such a great future to look forward to. You have left a lasting mark on everyone that knew you and you will be missed terribly. Heaven has a bright new angel.”
Head teacher Brendan Hickey, wrote on the school’s website: “I am sorry to report the sad news that Ben Obiora, one of our year 11 students, passed away this afternoon. ”
A spokesman for FC United said: “We are devastated to announce that Ben Obiora, one of our ballboys until quite recently, died. Ben left ballboy duty to play regular Saturday football. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends and two of our current ballboys who are lifelong friends of Ben and played regularly at New Mills FC with him.
“Ben was a terrific young man who loved his football and always had a smile, he will be sadly missed. “
A spokesman for the Hope Valley League said: “Ben Obiara, a Dove Holes player, collapsed at the ground during a game against Blazing Rag. After treatment at the ground from the Air Ambulance, Ben was rushed by ambulance to hospital but tragically he did not revive.
“The League extends their sincere condolences to Ben’s family and friends and would request that all teams hold a period of silence in respect of Ben, a sixteen year old youth from Buxworth who just wanted to play football.”
FC United plan to hold a minute’s silence before their next match as a mark of respect for Ben.
A post mortem is expected to be carried out shortly.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
FC United promotion hopes still in the balance
Source: MEN
FC United's Evo-Stik Premier promotion hopes are still in the balance after they were held 1-1 by relegated Burscough at Gigg Lane on Wednesday night.
Dean Stott gave the Rebels a 44th minute lead when he blasted in a penalty awarded for a foul on Stephen Johnson.
But the visitors equalised midway through the second-half after Adam Jones's handball offered Phil Clarke the chance to level from the spot.
FC United's Evo-Stik Premier promotion hopes are still in the balance after they were held 1-1 by relegated Burscough at Gigg Lane on Wednesday night.
Dean Stott gave the Rebels a 44th minute lead when he blasted in a penalty awarded for a foul on Stephen Johnson.
But the visitors equalised midway through the second-half after Adam Jones's handball offered Phil Clarke the chance to level from the spot.
Monday, April 09, 2012
Free kicks for women at FC United's football celebration
 |
| PART OF THE TEAM: Diane Maguire at the exhibition about women at FC United |
FC United let women in for free as part of a drive to make football more female-friendly. The event, called A Woman’s Place is at the Match, saw women with a special voucher get free admission to the club’s home clash with Buxton.
There was also a photo-exhibition on the history of women’s football, a short documentary about the club’s female supporters, and a specially-themed matchday programme.
FC United volunteer Lucy Pendlebury said: "Women’s football is the fastest growing sport in Britain, with more than one million women and girls playing the game regularly.
"One of the main reasons for this event is to highlight and celebrate the important role that women play in the game and especially at FC United.
"A high proportion of our volunteers are female, so it goes without saying that the club would not function as efficiently without them."
The club – which is moving to a new ground in Moston next year – has a female club secretary and nutritionist, as well as thousands of women fans and volunteers.
FC United club nutritionist Helen Walker said: "This is still a male-dominated sport, even though women’s football is on the rise, and there is a very traditional attitude in some places, particularly at some away grounds. But at FC United I have been very accepted. It is great to see so many women involved with FC and we are welcomed without any question.
"We have women involved at every level of this club – at the top, on the board, physios, programme sellers and turnstile operators, which shows our importance."
FC United manager Karl Marginson added: "I would like to praise the club for the work surrounding the women at football event.
"We have women directly involved with the players with physiotherapy and nutrition and they do an excellent job and are accepted as part of the team, just as the male staff are.
"We wouldn’t even have a team without all those hundreds of volunteers and I want to pass my thanks on to them from us all."
Pamela Welsh April 09, 2012
Thursday, April 05, 2012
Video: A woman's place is at the match, say FC United
Source: MEN
FC United are urging female fans to come to Saturday’s game against Buxton – and it won’t cost them a penny.
The supporter-owned club have organised several community initiatives such as a People United Day, a Youth United Day and a Big Coat Day, the latter to help local homeless charities.
And now for the first time they are hosting an event focused on the fairer sex, called “A Woman’s Place ... is at the Match”.
Women are not only being offered free admission for Saturday’s home match at Bury’s Gigg Lane – when the Rebels hope to maintain their bid for promotion from the Evo-Stik Premier – FC United are also hosting an exhibition in the Gigg Lane social club, celebrating women’s role in football and, in particular, with the Rebels.
The exhibition will feature photos on the history of women’s football, a radio documentary and a video documentary about what FC United means to some of its female supporters, as well as volunteer biographies showcasing the role of women in running the club.
Their nutritionist Helen Walker said: “This is still a male-dominated sport.
“There is a very traditional attitude in some places, particularly at away grounds, but at FC United I have been very accepted. It is great to see so many women involved.
“We have women at every level of the club – at the top, on the board, physios, programme sellers and turnstile operators – which shows our importance.”
Volunteer Lucy Pendlebury added: “A high proportion of our volunteers are female, so the club would not function as efficiently without them.”
The exhibition opens at noon, with a £1 donation requested.
Free admission is via a voucher, is available from the FC membership stall on Saturday or by calling 07791 997602.
Click below for a video on the campaign
FC United are urging female fans to come to Saturday’s game against Buxton – and it won’t cost them a penny.
The supporter-owned club have organised several community initiatives such as a People United Day, a Youth United Day and a Big Coat Day, the latter to help local homeless charities.
And now for the first time they are hosting an event focused on the fairer sex, called “A Woman’s Place ... is at the Match”.
Women are not only being offered free admission for Saturday’s home match at Bury’s Gigg Lane – when the Rebels hope to maintain their bid for promotion from the Evo-Stik Premier – FC United are also hosting an exhibition in the Gigg Lane social club, celebrating women’s role in football and, in particular, with the Rebels.
The exhibition will feature photos on the history of women’s football, a radio documentary and a video documentary about what FC United means to some of its female supporters, as well as volunteer biographies showcasing the role of women in running the club.
Their nutritionist Helen Walker said: “This is still a male-dominated sport.
“There is a very traditional attitude in some places, particularly at away grounds, but at FC United I have been very accepted. It is great to see so many women involved.
“We have women at every level of the club – at the top, on the board, physios, programme sellers and turnstile operators – which shows our importance.”
Volunteer Lucy Pendlebury added: “A high proportion of our volunteers are female, so the club would not function as efficiently without them.”
The exhibition opens at noon, with a £1 donation requested.
Free admission is via a voucher, is available from the FC membership stall on Saturday or by calling 07791 997602.
Click below for a video on the campaign
Wednesday, April 04, 2012
Residents in last ditch bid to block FC United stadium in Moston
A group of residents opposed to FC United’s plans for a new stadium have launched an 11th-hour legal bid to kick them into touch.
Residents United Residents Association (RURA) want a judicial review of Manchester council’s decision to approve proposals for a 5,000-capacity, £4.6m complex in Moston.
They have collected £10,000, instructed a barrister and expect to serve papers on the authority ‘within the next few days’.
They will argue that the planning process was flawed and the decision should be looked at again. Once their appeal is lodged it will be up to High Court judges to decide whether to grant a full review.
Club officials said they were confident due process was followed throughout.
FC United are hoping to be in the new stadium, on the site of the Ronald Johnson Playing Fields, for the 2013/14 season.
But Annette McGovern, from RURA, said they would ‘fight it to the end’.
She said: “We will be serving the legal papers on the council in the next few days.
“Since October, we have been raising money to fight this and we have been amazed by the terrific support we have received.
“We have instructed a barrister to represent us. Our intention is to take the planning decision to a judicial review. We said that we will fight it to the end and it’s not over yet.”
Annette claimed that the ‘overwhelming majority’ of those living close to the proposed site, just off St Mary’s Road, were opposed to the plans.
That is despite the fact a city council consultation exercise found most people with local postcodes were in favour.
Kathy Crotty, a St Mary’s Road resident and member of pro-stadium group M40 4FC, said: “I welcome the investment from FC United to provide facilities which will benefit the youth of Moston.
“Although some of us support other clubs, we appreciate that this club is different because of the community aspect it has. RURA does not represent all Moston residents and the council received twice as many letters in support than against the plans.”
Mike Keegan April 04, 2012
Monday, April 02, 2012
Plans to build £4.6m FC United stadium on Ronald Johnson playing fields are ...
Plans to build £4.6m FC United stadium on Ronald Johnson playing fields are challenged by his great nephew.
One of the last descendents of Ronald Johnson – the man on whose playing fields FC United plan to build a 5,000-capacity stadium – has contacted town hall chiefs to oppose the plans.
The relative, one of two remaining great nephews, wrote to Manchester council to say he and his family ‘stand opposed’ to the proposals.
The news comes after town hall bosses approved the £4.6m project – which includes plans for a public medical room and other community resources. The Ronald Johnson fields, in Moston, were bequeathed to the people of Manchester.
It is understood at least part of the site was placed under a covenant requesting it be reserved for community recreational use.
Some people who live in the surrounding area have fought a campaign against the stadium. But a public consultation carried out by the council suggested most people who expressed a view were in favour of the plans.
The great-nephew’s letter – seen by the M.E.N. – expresses surprise that the authority has not contacted a member of the family for their thoughts on the planned stadium.
The relative, who lives in Cheshire, writes that the land – on which the Richard Johnson, Clapham and Morris wireworks once stood – was handed over by the family to benefit those who lived nearby.
He adds that those people are ‘in the main firmly against the proposed stadium’ and concludes ‘after careful consideration we also stand opposed’. The relative, who does not want to be named, claims in the letter to be a spokesman for the entire family.
But the M.E.N. has contacted a second great-nephew, who said he felt it ‘inappropriate to support or oppose’ the plans because he lives in Kent.
He added that, now planning permission had been granted, he wished the project well – and hoped the Ronald Johnson name would be retained in some form.
FC United are completing legal formalities before work can start.The club declined to comment on the letter.
But Neil Fairlamb, head of sport for Manchester council, said: “The council is satisfied there is no legal reason why the scheme, which will provide extensive community benefits to Moston and North Manchester, should not go ahead. A descendent living in Cheshire, came forward saying they opposed the scheme.
"We have contacted him and offered to meet to explain the plans. He was offered a number of potential dates but he was unable to make these.”
The club hope to be in their new home for the start of the 2013/14 season.
The memory of fallen soldier Ronald Johnson has been kept alive for 90 years - thanks to the playing fields named in his honour.
Johnson – whose family ran a wireworks near the park – lost his life in the trenches of World War I aged 27.
After a high-flying education he had originally taken up a job at the family firm's Australian outpost.
But when war broke out he returned to the Britain to enlist and was signed up to the Royal Field Artillery 23rd Division.
He said he wanted to fight alongside the men who worked in his family's factory.
After surviving a bullet in the Battle of the Somme he returned to the front line, but was killed in action in May 1917.
He is buried at the Brandhoek military cemetery in Belgium.
His will requested that the fields in Moston be purchased for the factory's workers - and in 1922 they were opened in his name.
Mike Keegan April 02, 2012
Friday, March 30, 2012
Council rebel leaves Labour over FC United 's new stadium in Moston
Source: MEN
A veteran councillor is quitting the Labour party after accusing it of treating FC United’s neighbours ‘like dirt’ in a row over the new stadium.
Henry Cooper says the council’s decision to back plans for a 5,000 capacity stadium in Moston is ‘ridiculous’. He claims the Labour party has ridden roughshod over the views of his constituents in Moston.
Coun Cooper, who was first elected to the council in 1991,said: “I have never seen anything like that before.
“The residents who live around here, in the Charlestown and the Moston areas have been treated like dirt.
“If this was any other development in any other area of Manchester with this level of opposition, they wouldn’t do it.
“It wouldn’t even have been considered. But there’s something about this development that the Labour party want to get through and all other opposition is being ignored.”
The planning application for the club’s £4.6m project on the Ronald Johnson Playing Fields in St Mary’s Road was passed by council bosses last October. The bitterly-fought campaign divided the community, with campaigns both for and against the plan. More than 2,200 objections were received by the council’s planning committee – with 1,369 of those from people who lived nearby.
Even the three ward councillors were split, with Paul Murphy and Rita Tavernor in support and Coun Cooper against.
Coun Cooper said: “I will be very sad to leave the Labour party. I’ve been a member for 25 years and a Labour councillor for 21 of those. But there are certain times when you have to stick by your principles.
“All the ward councillors were against Oldham’s football ground coming just down the road, so I don’t understand why this is different.”
Coun Cooper will also lose his seat as deputy chair of the fire authority as a result of the move.
FC United, formed in protest at the Glazer family’s ownership of Manchester United, says work on the stadium will start in the next couple of months.
Coun Pat Karney, speaking on behalf of the Labour group in Manchester, said: “I have spoken to Henry to tell him that this is the wrong decision both for himself and for the people of Moston.
“The council has gone out of its way to listen to all the views on both sides of the debate on FC United.
“I am confident that Paul Murphy and Rita Tavernor will do an excellent job in representing the people of Moston.”
A veteran councillor is quitting the Labour party after accusing it of treating FC United’s neighbours ‘like dirt’ in a row over the new stadium.
Henry Cooper says the council’s decision to back plans for a 5,000 capacity stadium in Moston is ‘ridiculous’. He claims the Labour party has ridden roughshod over the views of his constituents in Moston.
Coun Cooper, who was first elected to the council in 1991,said: “I have never seen anything like that before.
“The residents who live around here, in the Charlestown and the Moston areas have been treated like dirt.
“If this was any other development in any other area of Manchester with this level of opposition, they wouldn’t do it.
“It wouldn’t even have been considered. But there’s something about this development that the Labour party want to get through and all other opposition is being ignored.”
The planning application for the club’s £4.6m project on the Ronald Johnson Playing Fields in St Mary’s Road was passed by council bosses last October. The bitterly-fought campaign divided the community, with campaigns both for and against the plan. More than 2,200 objections were received by the council’s planning committee – with 1,369 of those from people who lived nearby.
Even the three ward councillors were split, with Paul Murphy and Rita Tavernor in support and Coun Cooper against.
Coun Cooper said: “I will be very sad to leave the Labour party. I’ve been a member for 25 years and a Labour councillor for 21 of those. But there are certain times when you have to stick by your principles.
“All the ward councillors were against Oldham’s football ground coming just down the road, so I don’t understand why this is different.”
Coun Cooper will also lose his seat as deputy chair of the fire authority as a result of the move.
FC United, formed in protest at the Glazer family’s ownership of Manchester United, says work on the stadium will start in the next couple of months.
Coun Pat Karney, speaking on behalf of the Labour group in Manchester, said: “I have spoken to Henry to tell him that this is the wrong decision both for himself and for the people of Moston.
“The council has gone out of its way to listen to all the views on both sides of the debate on FC United.
“I am confident that Paul Murphy and Rita Tavernor will do an excellent job in representing the people of Moston.”
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Head boys Adam Jones and Lee Neville hand Rebels three points
Source: MEN
Adam Jones and Lee Neville were unlikely match-winners for FC United as the Rebels triumphed in their Evo-Stik Premier promotion battle at Hednesford, writes Tony Glennon.
The two defenders each struck with headers from set-pieces inside the opening quarter of an hour to secure a potentially priceless 2-1 victory.
Jones took just two minutes to open the scoring, nodding in from a corner, and Neville quickly doubled FC’s lead.
Matthew Wolfenden then missed a glorious chance to add a third, failing to hit the target after rounding keeper Dan Crane, after which the Rebels spent much of the rest of the game with their backs to the wall.
Jermaine Johnson reduced their arrears just before the hour mark, but United held on for a win which takes them to within a point of a play-off place with just eight games left.
Challenge
Ashton United lost 2-1 to Stocksbridge, but Northwich Victoria and Chorley each joined FC United in stepping up their respective promotion challenges.
Vics came from behind to beat visiting neighbours Nantwich 2-1, while Magpies’ new boy Ciaran Kilheeney, signed from Droylsden, scored twice on his debut in a 5-1 romp at Worksop.
Title-chasing Curzon Ashton held on to top spot in Evo-Stik North with Connor Hampton, Kristian Dennis and Samuel Walker on target in a comfortable 3-1 win at Durham.
Trafford’s 2-1 defeat to AFC Fylde means the second-placed seasiders remain in hot pursuit of the Nash but Curzon will increase their lead to six points if they can overcome old foes Woodley Sports at the Tameside Stadium tonight (7.45pm).
Woodley, meanwhile, got their play-off bid back on track by thrashing Salford 4 0, while Mossley won their derby date with Radcliffe 2-0.
Lee Gaskell’s third-minute penalty put North West Counties League leaders Ramsbottom on their way to a 3-0 victory at Flixton.
Tony Glennon March 19, 2012
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
