Source: North West Evening Mail
Barrow AFC fans have reached end of their tether
By David Pickthall
CHANTS of “what a load of rubbish” and “you’re not fit to wear the shirt” belted out of the away end at Gigg Lane at the final whistle of Sunday’s match against FC United.
Before leaving the field, a handful of Barrow players – I can’t remember who – clapped in the direction of the travelling fans to acknowledge their commitment to the cause.
But it didn’t stop the verbal onslaught and boos.
The chants were venom-filled, heartfelt and borne out of an eight-match winless streak that the players had appeared to show no desire of stopping against FC United.
It was clear in that exact moment on Sunday that Barrow fans had reached the end of their tether with the way this season is unfolding.
Karl Marginson, like the Barrow fans, probably thought FC United would lose on Sunday.
The home manager wrote in his programme notes: “We’re in for a very tough game against Barrow today.”
How wrong he was.
What made the performance difficult to swallow was the fact this was no low-key FA Cup fourth round qualifier on a poor pitch in front of a low gate.
Quite the opposite.
Sunday’s match was played in an all-seater Football League stadium in front of more than 3,200 vocal supporters and Barrow’s biggest travelling support of the season by far.
It didn’t feel like your average Conference match.
It had that big game, big stage FA Cup atmosphere and yet Barrow fell flat.
Add that to the winless run and the fact Barrow lost to a team two tiers below them, and you can begin to understand the fans’ unrest – even though these results do happen, the history of the FA Cup will tell you that.
There is no FA Cup “distraction” now for Barrow as there probably has been for the past two years.
They need to ensure that is a good thing, especially given the difficulty of the upcoming league games.
THE Barrow fans were on top form midway through the second half on Sunday when they gave the current chart hit Barbra Streisand a Bluebirds twist.
Singing all the “oo’s” in the same high-pitched style as the original, they then inserted the words “Barrow Soccer”.
It summed up the day, though, when FC United scored as they were in full voice.
First published at 13:07, Thursday, 28 October 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
Showing posts with label North West Evening Mail. Show all posts
Showing posts with label North West Evening Mail. Show all posts
Friday, October 29, 2010
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Former Barrow midfielder's joy at FC United win
FORMER Barrow AFC midfielder and current FC United manager Karl Marginson was ecstatic after guiding his side into the FA Cup first round proper for the first time in their five-year history.
He beamed: “These are happy days. It’s the biggest win in our history. We’ve never played a competitive match against a Conference team before, so combine that with all the romance of the FA Cup and that makes it all that bit more special.
“I’m just buzzing for everybody at the club.”
Marginson was in no doubt as to who were the better side on the day at Gigg Lane. He added: “We deserved it. I said in the week that Barrow would probably have to have an off day and we would have to be right at the races, and that’s what happened.
“Going forward we caused them numerous problems, though when we hit the post in the second half and their keeper pulled off a great save, I thought it might not be our day. Credit to the lads for keeping going. Also credit to Barrow managers Dave Bayliss and Darren Sheridan, they both said at the end when we shook hands that it was a deserved result.
“I feel for Dave and Daz because obviously it was a banana skin and we’ve managed to prevail.”
Asked if the win was sweeter because it came against one of the clubs he used to play for, Marginson said: “No, I feel for all them fans. They travelled in numbers like they always do and they’re going home with that empty feeling. I’m sure Barrow will come again and bounce back like they always have done. For us though it means a few quid (£12,500 FA prize money and big gate receipts from a crowd of over 3,200), which will help us build our own ground.”
“It’s another major achievement for FC United. We’ve only been going five years and to be in this position is credit to the players and supporters. “I mean, scenes like that at the end with the supporters, you just don’t get that anywhere else at this level. They are the best fans you could wish for.”
Last updated at 09:05, Tuesday, 26 October 2010
Monday, October 25, 2010
Red Rebels leave Barrow AFC without a cause
Source: North West Evening Mail
THE previous two seasons brought dream FA Cup runs which saw Barrow AFC play first Middlesbrough and then Sunderland in successive third round appearances.
There will be no fairytale for the Bluebirds to remember this term – only a nightmare exit at the first hurdle.
Barrow were outplayed by their fired-up lower-league opponents, who got the winning goal their performance deserved 12 minutes from time through Carlos Roca.
It was a banana-skin the Bluebirds royally slipped up on.
FC United – the club formed in 2005 by Manchester United fans angered by the takeover of the Glazers at Old Trafford – wanted it more, and richly deserved their reward of a first round trip to League One outfit Rochdale.
The Bluebirds have now failed to win any of their last eight games in league and cup, and, for probably the first time in their tenure, the pressure is on joint-managers Dave Bayliss and Darren Sheridan.
The two teams entered the pitch to a cauldron of noise, with banks of rival supporters singing their hearts out at the opposing ends of the ground.
It was every bit a classic FA Cup atmosphere in front of a crowd of more than 3,200 at Bury FC’s Gigg Lane.
Barrow started in a changed 3-5-2 formation, with Phil Bolland returning from suspension to partner skipper Paul Jones and Mike Pearson in the heart of the defence.
Simon Spender and Paul Edwards were deployed as wing-backs, with 42-year-old joint-boss Darren Sheridan, Mark Boyd and Ciaran Donnelly in midfield.
Nick Chadwick, making his first start of the season following months of knee injury hell, was paired up top with leading scorer Jason Walker.
The first half-chance of the game, following a cagey start in which FC United showed more promise, came on 10 minutes when Barrow’s number two keeper Shaun Pearson raced off his line to just beat Ben Deegan to the ball.
With the vociferous home support making themselves heard, the fired-up hosts continued to enjoy the better of the play.
Barrow weathered the inevitable opening 15-minute storm and then began to settle.
Donnelly forced home keeper Sam Ashton into the first save of the match with a low 20-yard shot, while at the other end, Mike Norton’s header was easily gathered by Shaun Pearson.
On 24 minutes, Jerome Wright broke clear down the left and his cross was almost turned in at the back post, first by Glynn Hurst – on as an early substitute for the injured Deegan – and then by AFC defender Mike Pearson before brother Shaun pounced on the ball.
Spender bombed forward on the half-hour mark and flashed a ball across the box.
The wing-back, who was being tugged from behind by Lee Neville, could – were he a less honest character – have gone down and justifiably appealed for a penalty.
Chadwick, showing signs of understandable rustiness, then miss-hit a 10-yard shot wide from a good position before, at the other end, Hurst headed over.
The best moment of the half came on 35 minutes, when the lively Wright tricked his way past Bolland on the left byline before bending a low right-foot shot just inches past the far upright.
Walker had a brilliant chance to opened the scoring five minutes later but he failed to connect sweetly with a 12-yard effort and Ashton easily saved.
Moments later, the AFC striker attempted an acrobatic scissor-kick, which Ashton again claimed.
A now very-much even contest was swinging from end to end, and on 41 minutes Jake Cottrell directed a header straight at Shaun Pearson.
The half ended with the Bluebirds having registered seven shots (five on target) and FC United five (two on target).
The home side started the second half brightly and, after great defensive work by Spender had resulted in a corner, Hurst flicked a near-post header across goal and just wide of the far post.
Another home corner moments later was half-cleared to Wright, whose viciously swerving low drive was palmed out by Shaun Pearson.
Fortunately for Barrow, the rebound fell kindly and a huge sigh of relief was breathed.
On 49 minutes the on-song Wright forced Shaun Pearson into yet another save, this time the Welsh stopper pushing wide a stinging 16-yard drive. Barrow were hanging on.
AFC introduced Forrest for Chadwick on 55 minutes, but the second half was now following a rather similar pattern as Wright, once again, had a shot which this time fizzed just wide.
Moments later, the Bluebirds made a double substitution, with Boyd and Mike Pearson replaced by wingers Goodfellow and Rutherford. It meant a return to a 4-4-2 formation.
Still the FC United pressure continued. Norton played a smart one-two with Hurst and saw his 16-yard shot beat Shaun Pearson but strike the foot of the far post. The AFC keeper then got to his feet and saved the rebound from Wright.
The Bluebirds gained some relief when a rare foray forward ended with a Goodfellow shot which Ashton gathered at the second attempt.
Substitute Forrest then suffered an ankle injury, but, with all three substitutions made, he limped on for the remainder of the game.
FC United got the goal their display deserved 12 minutes from time when Norton found space inside the box and his attempted shot was redirected by the lurking Roca, whose close-range prod sent the home supporters behind the goal into a state of delirium.
Barrow pushed men forward but were unable to create any real chances in the closing stages.
As the final whistle sounded jubilant FC United fans sang: “We’re going to Wem-ber-lee.”
Barrow, who last May were at Wembley lifting the FA Trophy, left the pitch to boos from their own fans.
First published at 13:05, Monday, 25 October 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
THE previous two seasons brought dream FA Cup runs which saw Barrow AFC play first Middlesbrough and then Sunderland in successive third round appearances.
There will be no fairytale for the Bluebirds to remember this term – only a nightmare exit at the first hurdle.
Barrow were outplayed by their fired-up lower-league opponents, who got the winning goal their performance deserved 12 minutes from time through Carlos Roca.
It was a banana-skin the Bluebirds royally slipped up on.
FC United – the club formed in 2005 by Manchester United fans angered by the takeover of the Glazers at Old Trafford – wanted it more, and richly deserved their reward of a first round trip to League One outfit Rochdale.
The Bluebirds have now failed to win any of their last eight games in league and cup, and, for probably the first time in their tenure, the pressure is on joint-managers Dave Bayliss and Darren Sheridan.
The two teams entered the pitch to a cauldron of noise, with banks of rival supporters singing their hearts out at the opposing ends of the ground.
It was every bit a classic FA Cup atmosphere in front of a crowd of more than 3,200 at Bury FC’s Gigg Lane.
Barrow started in a changed 3-5-2 formation, with Phil Bolland returning from suspension to partner skipper Paul Jones and Mike Pearson in the heart of the defence.
Simon Spender and Paul Edwards were deployed as wing-backs, with 42-year-old joint-boss Darren Sheridan, Mark Boyd and Ciaran Donnelly in midfield.
Nick Chadwick, making his first start of the season following months of knee injury hell, was paired up top with leading scorer Jason Walker.
The first half-chance of the game, following a cagey start in which FC United showed more promise, came on 10 minutes when Barrow’s number two keeper Shaun Pearson raced off his line to just beat Ben Deegan to the ball.
With the vociferous home support making themselves heard, the fired-up hosts continued to enjoy the better of the play.
Barrow weathered the inevitable opening 15-minute storm and then began to settle.
Donnelly forced home keeper Sam Ashton into the first save of the match with a low 20-yard shot, while at the other end, Mike Norton’s header was easily gathered by Shaun Pearson.
On 24 minutes, Jerome Wright broke clear down the left and his cross was almost turned in at the back post, first by Glynn Hurst – on as an early substitute for the injured Deegan – and then by AFC defender Mike Pearson before brother Shaun pounced on the ball.
Spender bombed forward on the half-hour mark and flashed a ball across the box.
The wing-back, who was being tugged from behind by Lee Neville, could – were he a less honest character – have gone down and justifiably appealed for a penalty.
Chadwick, showing signs of understandable rustiness, then miss-hit a 10-yard shot wide from a good position before, at the other end, Hurst headed over.
The best moment of the half came on 35 minutes, when the lively Wright tricked his way past Bolland on the left byline before bending a low right-foot shot just inches past the far upright.
Walker had a brilliant chance to opened the scoring five minutes later but he failed to connect sweetly with a 12-yard effort and Ashton easily saved.
Moments later, the AFC striker attempted an acrobatic scissor-kick, which Ashton again claimed.
A now very-much even contest was swinging from end to end, and on 41 minutes Jake Cottrell directed a header straight at Shaun Pearson.
The half ended with the Bluebirds having registered seven shots (five on target) and FC United five (two on target).
The home side started the second half brightly and, after great defensive work by Spender had resulted in a corner, Hurst flicked a near-post header across goal and just wide of the far post.
Another home corner moments later was half-cleared to Wright, whose viciously swerving low drive was palmed out by Shaun Pearson.
Fortunately for Barrow, the rebound fell kindly and a huge sigh of relief was breathed.
On 49 minutes the on-song Wright forced Shaun Pearson into yet another save, this time the Welsh stopper pushing wide a stinging 16-yard drive. Barrow were hanging on.
AFC introduced Forrest for Chadwick on 55 minutes, but the second half was now following a rather similar pattern as Wright, once again, had a shot which this time fizzed just wide.
Moments later, the Bluebirds made a double substitution, with Boyd and Mike Pearson replaced by wingers Goodfellow and Rutherford. It meant a return to a 4-4-2 formation.
Still the FC United pressure continued. Norton played a smart one-two with Hurst and saw his 16-yard shot beat Shaun Pearson but strike the foot of the far post. The AFC keeper then got to his feet and saved the rebound from Wright.
The Bluebirds gained some relief when a rare foray forward ended with a Goodfellow shot which Ashton gathered at the second attempt.
Substitute Forrest then suffered an ankle injury, but, with all three substitutions made, he limped on for the remainder of the game.
FC United got the goal their display deserved 12 minutes from time when Norton found space inside the box and his attempted shot was redirected by the lurking Roca, whose close-range prod sent the home supporters behind the goal into a state of delirium.
Barrow pushed men forward but were unable to create any real chances in the closing stages.
As the final whistle sounded jubilant FC United fans sang: “We’re going to Wem-ber-lee.”
Barrow, who last May were at Wembley lifting the FA Trophy, left the pitch to boos from their own fans.
First published at 13:05, Monday, 25 October 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
Roca horror show as Bluebirds crash out of FA Cup
Source: North West Evening Mail
DARREN Sheridan blasted his team’s dreadful display after they crashed out of the FA Cup against lower-league FC United of Manchester.
The 42-year-old player/joint-manager saw his side go down 1-0 in front of a crowd of 3,200-plus at Gigg Lane.
In losing to a side who ply their trade two divisions below them, the Bluebirds blew the chance of £12,500 in prize money and a first round trip to League One Rochdale.
The only goal of the game came 12 minutes from time through Carlos Roca, who instantly wrote his name into the hall of fame at FC United – the club formed five years ago by Manchester United fans angry at the Glazers’ takeover at Old Trafford.
Barrow, who reside in the Blue Square Bet Premier relegation zone, have now failed to win any of their last eight games in league and cup.
Sheridan said: “It was not good enough all over the park, myself included.
“Our movement, our endeavour, there was nothing there today. The lads were poor.
“We knew what we were in for coming here, with a big crowd, and them really up for it. We had to match them but we didn’t do that. They deserved it. They were the better side.
“I know I said the same after last Saturday’s loss at Cambridge, but again I feel for the fans who have come down in their numbers to support us and then watch a display like that.
“We just weren’t at the races today and it’s very disappointing. They were the better side all over the park.
“We had a meeting with all the players yesterday. We discussed the season so far and said we need to get our fingers out and show more fight.
“I thought that would have cleared the air, that we’d come here, get a good result in the cup and then take that confidence into the league. It must have gone in one ear and out of the other.”
For the first time in their tenure, the pressure is now on Sheridan and fellow joint-manager Dave Bayliss.
Asked if he and Bayliss were the right men to turn round the FA Trophy winners’ current slump, Sheridan said: “Definitely so. Me and Dave will talk about the players who we think might not be good enough.
“Every time we play a side around us in the league or below us, we don’t raise our game. Then we play one of the big sides and they don’t look like the same lads. We’re not showing it week-in, week-out. We need to do something about it, and do so quick.”
First published at 13:06, Monday, 25 October 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
DARREN Sheridan blasted his team’s dreadful display after they crashed out of the FA Cup against lower-league FC United of Manchester.
The 42-year-old player/joint-manager saw his side go down 1-0 in front of a crowd of 3,200-plus at Gigg Lane.
In losing to a side who ply their trade two divisions below them, the Bluebirds blew the chance of £12,500 in prize money and a first round trip to League One Rochdale.
The only goal of the game came 12 minutes from time through Carlos Roca, who instantly wrote his name into the hall of fame at FC United – the club formed five years ago by Manchester United fans angry at the Glazers’ takeover at Old Trafford.
Barrow, who reside in the Blue Square Bet Premier relegation zone, have now failed to win any of their last eight games in league and cup.
Sheridan said: “It was not good enough all over the park, myself included.
“Our movement, our endeavour, there was nothing there today. The lads were poor.
“We knew what we were in for coming here, with a big crowd, and them really up for it. We had to match them but we didn’t do that. They deserved it. They were the better side.
“I know I said the same after last Saturday’s loss at Cambridge, but again I feel for the fans who have come down in their numbers to support us and then watch a display like that.
“We just weren’t at the races today and it’s very disappointing. They were the better side all over the park.
“We had a meeting with all the players yesterday. We discussed the season so far and said we need to get our fingers out and show more fight.
“I thought that would have cleared the air, that we’d come here, get a good result in the cup and then take that confidence into the league. It must have gone in one ear and out of the other.”
For the first time in their tenure, the pressure is now on Sheridan and fellow joint-manager Dave Bayliss.
Asked if he and Bayliss were the right men to turn round the FA Trophy winners’ current slump, Sheridan said: “Definitely so. Me and Dave will talk about the players who we think might not be good enough.
“Every time we play a side around us in the league or below us, we don’t raise our game. Then we play one of the big sides and they don’t look like the same lads. We’re not showing it week-in, week-out. We need to do something about it, and do so quick.”
First published at 13:06, Monday, 25 October 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
Sunday, October 24, 2010
BARROW AFC CRASH OUT OF FA CUP
Source: North West Evening Mail
FA CUP FOURTH QUALIFYING ROUND RESULT FROM GIGG LANE:
FC UNITED OF MANCHESTER 1 BARROW AFC 0
Goals: FC United: Carlos Roca (78)
Attendance: 3,229
BARROW AFC crashed out of this season's FA Cup following a 1-0 defeat at lower-league FC United in the fourth qualifying round today (Sunday).
The only goal of the game came 12 minutes from the end when a shot by Norton was prodded in from close range by Carlos Roca.
The two sides couldn't be seperated after an even first half, which the hosts started well but Barrow settled into. The best chance fell to the hosts when Jerome Wright bent a shot just past the post. For AFC, Walker had an effort saved and Chadwick shot wide with a 10-yard effot.
FC United started the second half really brightly and but for some great goalkeeping from Shaun Pearson would have taken the lead. The hosts came close on the hour mark when Mike Norton hit the foot of the post. They eventually got the goal their second-half dominance deserved in the 78th minute.
FC United will travel to League One Rochdale in the first round proper.
The Bluebirds made three changes to the side that lost 3-1 at Cambridge United eight days ago. Striker Nick Chadwick made his first start after returning from a knee injury suffered in pre-season, while midfielder Mark Boyd and defender Phil Bolland were also given starting berths. Marc Goodfellow returned from an ankle injury to take a place on the bench, alongside Robin Hulbert, Paul Rutherford, Gregg Blundell, Danny Forrest and Dave Bayliss. The three players who lost their places following the loss at Cambridge were Rutherford, James Owen (suspended) and Neil Wainwright (ineligible).
Barrow and FC United of Mancehster knew prior to kick-off that the reward for winning the tie was a first round trip to Rochdale. The Spotland outfit currently sit ninth in Football League One.
The Bluebirds arrived at Gigg Lane on the back of a seven-game winless run which has resulted in them falling into the Blue Square Bet Premier relegation zone. The hosts - formed in 2005 following the resentment of some Manchester United fans to the Galzers' takeover at Old Trafford - had won their last three Evo Stick League Premier Division games. The two sides had never met before today.
FC United, who are managed by former Bluebirds midfielder Karl Marginson, beat Radcliffe Borough, Gainsborough and Norton to reach the fourth qualifying of the competition.
Barrow AFC: Shaun Pearson, Simon Spender, Paul Edwards, Phil Bolland, Paul Jones, Mike Pearson, Darren Sheridan, Mark Boyd, Ciaran Donnelly, Jason Walker, Nick Chadwick. Subs: Robin Hulbert, Paul Rutherford, Marc Goodfellow, Gregg Blundell, Danny Forrest, Dave Bayliss.
FC United of Manchester: Sam Ashton, Kyle Jacobs, Lee Neville, James Holden, Karl Munroe, Scott McManus, Carlos Roca, Jake Cottrell, Mike Norton, Jerome Wright, Ben Deegan. Subs: Glynn Hurst, Zach Hibbert, Simon Carden, Nicky Platt, Chris Ovington, David Chadwick, Scott Chhetham.
Referee: M Heywood.
Don't forget to read tomorrow's Evening Mail for full match report, photos and reaction.
FA CUP FOURTH QUALIFYING ROUND RESULT FROM GIGG LANE:
FC UNITED OF MANCHESTER 1 BARROW AFC 0
Goals: FC United: Carlos Roca (78)
Attendance: 3,229
BARROW AFC crashed out of this season's FA Cup following a 1-0 defeat at lower-league FC United in the fourth qualifying round today (Sunday).
The only goal of the game came 12 minutes from the end when a shot by Norton was prodded in from close range by Carlos Roca.
The two sides couldn't be seperated after an even first half, which the hosts started well but Barrow settled into. The best chance fell to the hosts when Jerome Wright bent a shot just past the post. For AFC, Walker had an effort saved and Chadwick shot wide with a 10-yard effot.
FC United started the second half really brightly and but for some great goalkeeping from Shaun Pearson would have taken the lead. The hosts came close on the hour mark when Mike Norton hit the foot of the post. They eventually got the goal their second-half dominance deserved in the 78th minute.
FC United will travel to League One Rochdale in the first round proper.
The Bluebirds made three changes to the side that lost 3-1 at Cambridge United eight days ago. Striker Nick Chadwick made his first start after returning from a knee injury suffered in pre-season, while midfielder Mark Boyd and defender Phil Bolland were also given starting berths. Marc Goodfellow returned from an ankle injury to take a place on the bench, alongside Robin Hulbert, Paul Rutherford, Gregg Blundell, Danny Forrest and Dave Bayliss. The three players who lost their places following the loss at Cambridge were Rutherford, James Owen (suspended) and Neil Wainwright (ineligible).
Barrow and FC United of Mancehster knew prior to kick-off that the reward for winning the tie was a first round trip to Rochdale. The Spotland outfit currently sit ninth in Football League One.
The Bluebirds arrived at Gigg Lane on the back of a seven-game winless run which has resulted in them falling into the Blue Square Bet Premier relegation zone. The hosts - formed in 2005 following the resentment of some Manchester United fans to the Galzers' takeover at Old Trafford - had won their last three Evo Stick League Premier Division games. The two sides had never met before today.
FC United, who are managed by former Bluebirds midfielder Karl Marginson, beat Radcliffe Borough, Gainsborough and Norton to reach the fourth qualifying of the competition.
Barrow AFC: Shaun Pearson, Simon Spender, Paul Edwards, Phil Bolland, Paul Jones, Mike Pearson, Darren Sheridan, Mark Boyd, Ciaran Donnelly, Jason Walker, Nick Chadwick. Subs: Robin Hulbert, Paul Rutherford, Marc Goodfellow, Gregg Blundell, Danny Forrest, Dave Bayliss.
FC United of Manchester: Sam Ashton, Kyle Jacobs, Lee Neville, James Holden, Karl Munroe, Scott McManus, Carlos Roca, Jake Cottrell, Mike Norton, Jerome Wright, Ben Deegan. Subs: Glynn Hurst, Zach Hibbert, Simon Carden, Nicky Platt, Chris Ovington, David Chadwick, Scott Chhetham.
Referee: M Heywood.
Don't forget to read tomorrow's Evening Mail for full match report, photos and reaction.
FC United of Manchester v Barrow AFC - updates
Source: North West Evening Mail
Last updated at 15:07, Sunday, 24 October 2010
FA CUP FOURTH QUALIFYING ROUND LATEST FROM GIGG LANE:
FC UNITED OF MANCHESTER v BARROW AFC (kick-off 3pm)
The Bluebirds made three changes to the side that lost 3-1 at Cambridge United eight days ago. Striker Nick Chadwick made his first start after returning from a knee injury suffered in pre-season, while midfielder Mark Boyd and defender Phil Bolland were also given starting berths. Marc Goodfellow returned from an ankle injury to take a place on the bench, alongside Robin Hulbert, Paul Rutherford, Gregg Blundell, Danny Forrest and Dave Bayliss. The three players who lost their places following the loss at Cambridge were Rutherford, James Owen (suspended) and Neil Wainwright (ineligible).
Barrow and FC United of Mancehster knew prior to kick-off that the reward for winning the tie was a first round trip to Rochdale. The Spotland outfit currently sit ninth in Football League One.
The Bluebirds arrived at Gigg Lane on the back of a seven-game winless run which has resulted in them falling into the Blue Square Bet Premier relegation zone. The hosts - formed in 2005 following the resentment of some Manchester United fans to the Galzers' takeover at Old Trafford - had won their last three Evo Stick League Premier Division games. The two sides had never met before today.
FC United, who are managed by former Bluebirds midfielder Karl Marginson, beat Radcliffe Borough, Gainsborough and Norton to reach the fourth qualifying of the competition.
Barrow AFC: Shaun Pearson, Simon Spender, Paul Edwards, Phil Bolland, Paul Jones, Mike Pearson, Darren Sheridan, Mark Boyd, Ciaran Donnelly, Jason Walker, Nick Chadwick. Subs: Robin Hulbert, Paul Rutherford, Marc Goodfellow, Gregg Blundell, Danny Forrest, Dave Bayliss.
FC United of Manchester: Sam Ashton, Kyle Jacobs, Lee Neville, James Holden, Karl Munroe, Scott McManus, Carlos Roca, Jake Cottrell, Mike Norton, Jerome Wright, Ben Deegan. Subs: Glynn Hurst, Zach Hibbert, Simon Carden, Nicky Platt, Chris Ovington, David Chadwick, Scott Chhetham.
Referee: M Heywood.
Don't forget to read tomorrow's Evening Mail for full match report, photos and reaction.
Last updated at 15:07, Sunday, 24 October 2010
FA CUP FOURTH QUALIFYING ROUND LATEST FROM GIGG LANE:
FC UNITED OF MANCHESTER v BARROW AFC (kick-off 3pm)
The Bluebirds made three changes to the side that lost 3-1 at Cambridge United eight days ago. Striker Nick Chadwick made his first start after returning from a knee injury suffered in pre-season, while midfielder Mark Boyd and defender Phil Bolland were also given starting berths. Marc Goodfellow returned from an ankle injury to take a place on the bench, alongside Robin Hulbert, Paul Rutherford, Gregg Blundell, Danny Forrest and Dave Bayliss. The three players who lost their places following the loss at Cambridge were Rutherford, James Owen (suspended) and Neil Wainwright (ineligible).
Barrow and FC United of Mancehster knew prior to kick-off that the reward for winning the tie was a first round trip to Rochdale. The Spotland outfit currently sit ninth in Football League One.
The Bluebirds arrived at Gigg Lane on the back of a seven-game winless run which has resulted in them falling into the Blue Square Bet Premier relegation zone. The hosts - formed in 2005 following the resentment of some Manchester United fans to the Galzers' takeover at Old Trafford - had won their last three Evo Stick League Premier Division games. The two sides had never met before today.
FC United, who are managed by former Bluebirds midfielder Karl Marginson, beat Radcliffe Borough, Gainsborough and Norton to reach the fourth qualifying of the competition.
Barrow AFC: Shaun Pearson, Simon Spender, Paul Edwards, Phil Bolland, Paul Jones, Mike Pearson, Darren Sheridan, Mark Boyd, Ciaran Donnelly, Jason Walker, Nick Chadwick. Subs: Robin Hulbert, Paul Rutherford, Marc Goodfellow, Gregg Blundell, Danny Forrest, Dave Bayliss.
FC United of Manchester: Sam Ashton, Kyle Jacobs, Lee Neville, James Holden, Karl Munroe, Scott McManus, Carlos Roca, Jake Cottrell, Mike Norton, Jerome Wright, Ben Deegan. Subs: Glynn Hurst, Zach Hibbert, Simon Carden, Nicky Platt, Chris Ovington, David Chadwick, Scott Chhetham.
Referee: M Heywood.
Don't forget to read tomorrow's Evening Mail for full match report, photos and reaction.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Marginson: We didn’t want Rooney anyway!
Source: North West Evening Mail
KARL Marginson was never going to attempt to lure Wayne Rooney to FC United of Manchester – but he still has plenty of striking artillery to fire at Barrow AFC in the FA Cup fourth qualifying round tomorrow (3pm kick-off).
ROO-TURN: Wayne Rooney has agreed a five-year deal at Old Trafford, before which Karl Marginson (left) joked FC United couldn’t afford his hairdressing bills!
The FC United boss was this week asked tongue-in-cheek if the Red Rebels – formed in 2005 as a protest in the wake of the Glazers’ takeover at Old Trafford – would make an audacious bid to land the then-want-away former Everton star.
But Marginson told the Daily Telegraph: “We couldn’t pay his hairdressing bills. And he doesn’t even have much hair!”
As it turns out, Rooney yesterday performed a dramatic U-turn and agreed a new five-year deal with the Red Devils.
Instead of Rooney, FC United have strikers Glynn Hurst – a 34-year-old former Bury and Chesterfield man who was linked with Barrow last season – plus 12-goal top-scorer Mike Norton, and Ben Deegan to pick from.
Marginson said: “We’re strong on the wings and up front, whichever way we go.
“We have experience in the shape of Glynn Hurst, Michael Norton has never scored less than 30 goals a season and Ben Deegan got a hat-trick in our last game.
“Going forward we look pretty strong, so it’s about keeping our shape when we don’t have the ball and making ourselves difficult to play against.”
FC United currently sit 16th in the Evo-Stick League Premier Division – 39 places below Barrow in the football pyramid. They have, however, won their last three matches, averaging almost five goals a game.
Former Bluebirds midfielder Marginson said: “Our form has picked up over the last few weeks, confidence is high and the lads are all buzzing.
“I do think Barrow are probably going to have to have an off day and us play to our highest standard.
“The standards Barrow have to play to, to compete in what is a very, very strong league will mean they’ll find it a bit easier against us. But, hey, we’re not bad and we certainly won’t be any pushovers.”
FC United are again expected to be without captain David Chadwick and the influential Steve Torpey, but have no further injury concerns.
And while this is Barrow’s first game in this season’s FA Cup, the Red Rebels have already had to negotiate three hurdles in the shape of Radcliffe Borough (3-0), Gainsborough Trinity (2-1) and Norton And Stockton Ancients (5-2) to get this far.
Marginson said: “I’m going to enjoy it, no matter what the result. It will be great to see some old friends from Barrow and I hope everyone has a good day. At the end of the day, we are the underdogs and have nothing to lose.”
FC United have never reached the competition’s first round proper. Last season they were knocked out in the final qualifying round by Northwich Victoria.
To avoid a similar fate tomorrow, Marginson knows his side must keep quiet Barrow’s 10-goal top scorer Jason Walker.
“Jason is a lad who knows where the back of the net is,” said the 39-year-old FC United boss.
“Goalscorers are a rare breed, but he’s certainly one of them. We know he will be a threat.”
Reacting to Rooney’s sensational u-turn, Barrow and Furness Manchester United Supporters’ Club chairman Mal Lawson said: “I didn’t want us to lose him, so it’s good news. He was probably right about what he said about the ambition of the Glazers but he will still have some questions to answer in the dressing room.
“I don’t think Coleen wanted to move anyway!”
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
KARL Marginson was never going to attempt to lure Wayne Rooney to FC United of Manchester – but he still has plenty of striking artillery to fire at Barrow AFC in the FA Cup fourth qualifying round tomorrow (3pm kick-off).
ROO-TURN: Wayne Rooney has agreed a five-year deal at Old Trafford, before which Karl Marginson (left) joked FC United couldn’t afford his hairdressing bills!
The FC United boss was this week asked tongue-in-cheek if the Red Rebels – formed in 2005 as a protest in the wake of the Glazers’ takeover at Old Trafford – would make an audacious bid to land the then-want-away former Everton star.
But Marginson told the Daily Telegraph: “We couldn’t pay his hairdressing bills. And he doesn’t even have much hair!”
As it turns out, Rooney yesterday performed a dramatic U-turn and agreed a new five-year deal with the Red Devils.
Instead of Rooney, FC United have strikers Glynn Hurst – a 34-year-old former Bury and Chesterfield man who was linked with Barrow last season – plus 12-goal top-scorer Mike Norton, and Ben Deegan to pick from.
Marginson said: “We’re strong on the wings and up front, whichever way we go.
“We have experience in the shape of Glynn Hurst, Michael Norton has never scored less than 30 goals a season and Ben Deegan got a hat-trick in our last game.
“Going forward we look pretty strong, so it’s about keeping our shape when we don’t have the ball and making ourselves difficult to play against.”
FC United currently sit 16th in the Evo-Stick League Premier Division – 39 places below Barrow in the football pyramid. They have, however, won their last three matches, averaging almost five goals a game.
Former Bluebirds midfielder Marginson said: “Our form has picked up over the last few weeks, confidence is high and the lads are all buzzing.
“I do think Barrow are probably going to have to have an off day and us play to our highest standard.
“The standards Barrow have to play to, to compete in what is a very, very strong league will mean they’ll find it a bit easier against us. But, hey, we’re not bad and we certainly won’t be any pushovers.”
FC United are again expected to be without captain David Chadwick and the influential Steve Torpey, but have no further injury concerns.
And while this is Barrow’s first game in this season’s FA Cup, the Red Rebels have already had to negotiate three hurdles in the shape of Radcliffe Borough (3-0), Gainsborough Trinity (2-1) and Norton And Stockton Ancients (5-2) to get this far.
Marginson said: “I’m going to enjoy it, no matter what the result. It will be great to see some old friends from Barrow and I hope everyone has a good day. At the end of the day, we are the underdogs and have nothing to lose.”
FC United have never reached the competition’s first round proper. Last season they were knocked out in the final qualifying round by Northwich Victoria.
To avoid a similar fate tomorrow, Marginson knows his side must keep quiet Barrow’s 10-goal top scorer Jason Walker.
“Jason is a lad who knows where the back of the net is,” said the 39-year-old FC United boss.
“Goalscorers are a rare breed, but he’s certainly one of them. We know he will be a threat.”
Reacting to Rooney’s sensational u-turn, Barrow and Furness Manchester United Supporters’ Club chairman Mal Lawson said: “I didn’t want us to lose him, so it’s good news. He was probably right about what he said about the ambition of the Glazers but he will still have some questions to answer in the dressing room.
“I don’t think Coleen wanted to move anyway!”
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
Big army of Bluebirds fans going to Gigg
Source: North West Evening Mail
AROUND 500 travelling Barrow AFC fans are expected to cheer their team on against FC United tomorrow (3pm kick-off).
The club have filled two coaches, while the independent supporters’ club are also running two buses to the FA Cup fourth qualifying round clash.
Other Barrow fans from across the country are expected to make their own way to Gigg Lane, with many set to join home supporters in watching the first half of the televised Premier League clash between Stoke City v Manchester United (1.30pm kick-off).
The East Stand will be open to AFC supporters, who should use turnstiles numbered one to six.
The game is pay on the gate. Admission prices are: seats – £14 adults/£11 concessions; terrace – £13 adults/£10 concessions; under-16s – £5 all areas; under-sevens – £3 all areas.
Any supporters travelling by train into Manchester should note that today and tomorrow there will be no trams running on the Bury line. This is due to work for the construction of the new tram stop at Abraham Moss. A replacement bus will run from Bury to Piccadilly, calling at all stops to Victoria then non-stop to Piccadilly Gardens and Piccadilly station. Passengers should buy their tickets from Metrolink ticket vending machines as normal, before boarding the bus.
If the game finishes in a draw, a replay will be played at Holker Street on Wednesday night.
The draw for the FA Cup first round will be televised live on ITV tomorrow at 12.30pm.
Barrow’s game at FC United kicks off at 3pm, meaning both sides will be in the hat, alongside high-profile League One and Two clubs such as Sheffield Wednesday, Southampton and Charlton, as well as Carlisle United and Morecambe.
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
AROUND 500 travelling Barrow AFC fans are expected to cheer their team on against FC United tomorrow (3pm kick-off).
The club have filled two coaches, while the independent supporters’ club are also running two buses to the FA Cup fourth qualifying round clash.
Other Barrow fans from across the country are expected to make their own way to Gigg Lane, with many set to join home supporters in watching the first half of the televised Premier League clash between Stoke City v Manchester United (1.30pm kick-off).
The East Stand will be open to AFC supporters, who should use turnstiles numbered one to six.
The game is pay on the gate. Admission prices are: seats – £14 adults/£11 concessions; terrace – £13 adults/£10 concessions; under-16s – £5 all areas; under-sevens – £3 all areas.
Any supporters travelling by train into Manchester should note that today and tomorrow there will be no trams running on the Bury line. This is due to work for the construction of the new tram stop at Abraham Moss. A replacement bus will run from Bury to Piccadilly, calling at all stops to Victoria then non-stop to Piccadilly Gardens and Piccadilly station. Passengers should buy their tickets from Metrolink ticket vending machines as normal, before boarding the bus.
If the game finishes in a draw, a replay will be played at Holker Street on Wednesday night.
The draw for the FA Cup first round will be televised live on ITV tomorrow at 12.30pm.
Barrow’s game at FC United kicks off at 3pm, meaning both sides will be in the hat, alongside high-profile League One and Two clubs such as Sheffield Wednesday, Southampton and Charlton, as well as Carlisle United and Morecambe.
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
Swabba: FC United will be ‘tough test’ for AFC
Source: North West Evening Mail
BARROVIAN former FC United player Dave Swarbrick says the Bluebirds face a “really tough test” at Gigg Lane tomorrow.
The midfielder, who made 40 appearances during two spells at the Manchester club between 2006 and 2008, knows all about the potential banana skin facing Barrow in the final qualifying round of the FA Cup.
Swarbrick, who also played for AFC under Lee Turnbull and Phil Wilson, said: “It will be a really tough test for Barrow. FC United seem to have found some form lately.
“Obviously Barrow are definitely the favourites and they shouldn’t slip up, but it does happen, that is the magic of the FA Cup.”
FC United’s supporters are famed for the vocal backing they give their team.
This was clear for all to hear when they visited Craven Park back in December 2005 to play Holker Old Boys in a North West Counties fixture. FC United won 2-0 in front of a crowd of 2,300-plus.
Two months later Holker visited FC United – in a game played at Altrincham’s Moss Lane because Gigg Lane was unavailable – and lost 4-1 with more than 3,150 in attendance.
Swarbrick was the man on target that day for Old Boys in an impressive individual display which later earned him a move to the Red Rebels.
FC United’s highest attendance so far this season is 1,866, for their opening home game against Nantwich.
Much more – including strong travelling support from Barrow – are expected tomorrow as FC United aim to make the first round proper for the first time in their short history.
“I think everyone knows about the FC United fans,” said Swarbrick.
“Barrow will find an atmosphere that they probably won’t have experienced against another team of that level.
“The FC United supporters are out for the fun of it. They love their football and really support their club the best they can. For Barrow, I think it’s important they try to silence those fans as quickly as possible. It definitely has an effect on FC United when they’ve got the fans behind them.
“Mind you, even if they’re getting beat, their fans probably still won’t be silent. I’m hoping to go myself, but I’ll be a there as a neutral, I think!”
Swarbrick has this week been training with Lancaster City after recently leaving North West Counties table-toppers New Mills.
First published at 10:39, Saturday, 23 October 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
BARROVIAN former FC United player Dave Swarbrick says the Bluebirds face a “really tough test” at Gigg Lane tomorrow.
The midfielder, who made 40 appearances during two spells at the Manchester club between 2006 and 2008, knows all about the potential banana skin facing Barrow in the final qualifying round of the FA Cup.
Swarbrick, who also played for AFC under Lee Turnbull and Phil Wilson, said: “It will be a really tough test for Barrow. FC United seem to have found some form lately.
“Obviously Barrow are definitely the favourites and they shouldn’t slip up, but it does happen, that is the magic of the FA Cup.”
FC United’s supporters are famed for the vocal backing they give their team.
This was clear for all to hear when they visited Craven Park back in December 2005 to play Holker Old Boys in a North West Counties fixture. FC United won 2-0 in front of a crowd of 2,300-plus.
Two months later Holker visited FC United – in a game played at Altrincham’s Moss Lane because Gigg Lane was unavailable – and lost 4-1 with more than 3,150 in attendance.
Swarbrick was the man on target that day for Old Boys in an impressive individual display which later earned him a move to the Red Rebels.
FC United’s highest attendance so far this season is 1,866, for their opening home game against Nantwich.
Much more – including strong travelling support from Barrow – are expected tomorrow as FC United aim to make the first round proper for the first time in their short history.
“I think everyone knows about the FC United fans,” said Swarbrick.
“Barrow will find an atmosphere that they probably won’t have experienced against another team of that level.
“The FC United supporters are out for the fun of it. They love their football and really support their club the best they can. For Barrow, I think it’s important they try to silence those fans as quickly as possible. It definitely has an effect on FC United when they’ve got the fans behind them.
“Mind you, even if they’re getting beat, their fans probably still won’t be silent. I’m hoping to go myself, but I’ll be a there as a neutral, I think!”
Swarbrick has this week been training with Lancaster City after recently leaving North West Counties table-toppers New Mills.
First published at 10:39, Saturday, 23 October 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
Friday, October 22, 2010
Bayliss: We're the underdogs
Source: North West Evening Mail
BARROW AFC joint-boss Dave Bayliss believes his side will be the underdogs when they tackle FC United of Manchester in the FA Cup on Sunday.
The Bluebirds go to Gigg Lane hoping to progress past the fourth qualifying round and, in the process, bank £12,500 in prize money.
And, though Barrow sit 39 places above their Evo-Stick League Premier Division opponents in the football pyramid, Bayliss feels his side go into the potential banana-skin tie as second favourites.
The FA Trophy holders have not won any of their last seven games and now reside in the Blue Square Bet Premier relegation zone.
“I’d say we’re underdogs, not favourites, for the game,” said Bayliss.
“FC United are probably a bigger club fan-base-wise than we are and are at home.
“There will probably be about 2,500 there on Sunday, so it should be a great atmosphere inside a good Football League ground.
“At this stage of the competition, you can easily be given an away game on a sloping pitch in front of 300-400 people, but we’ve been given a really good, yet really tough, tie to play in.”
Asked if the cup tie provided a welcome distraction from Barrow’s current league troubles, Bayliss added: “I suppose so. We’ve played well in spells during the last seven games but we haven’t won, which is massively disappointing.
“But every game in football gives you the chance to redeem yourself and the lads, although despondent after last weekend, have trained hard this week and are excited about the game against FC United.
“Because it’s a Sunday game, we’ll do things a bit different and train Saturday morning rather than Friday.
“Especially after the success we’ve had in the FA Cup in the last two years, reaching the third round against Middlesbrough then Sunderland, the lads want more of what they’ve tasted.”
Barrow beat Accrington 2-1 in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Holker Street on Wednesday.
Centre-half Phil Bolland, back from suspension, played the full 90 minutes, while all other players, including Nick Chadwick and Marc Goodfellow, both of whom are returning from injuries, featured for 45 minutes.
Bayliss said: “It went really well.
“Having Bolly back gives us more options again and we’re starting, apart from Simon Wiles obviously and Alan Martin, to get back together the full squad we’ve always wanted.
“We won the game 2-1, with Jason Walker and Mike Pearson scoring.
“The game allowed us to try a few things out, play a bit differently. It gave us some food for thought.”
Meanwhile, Bayliss rubbished rumours linking Barrow with a move for former Everton and Arsenal striker Franny Jeffers. He joked: “We’re more likely to get Franny Lee!”
Elsewhere, other ex-Premier League stars are being linked with clubs in non-league’s top-flight.
Former Arsenal winger Robert Pires is reported to be a target for big-spending Crawley Town, while former Manchester United and Newcastle wideman Keith Gillespie is to have a trial at Darlington.
l The draw for the FA Cup first round will be televised live on ITV on Sunday at 12.30pm
Barrow’s game at FC United kicks off at 3pm, meaning both sides will be in the hat, alongside League One and Two clubs like Sheffield Wednesday, Southampton and Charlton.
First published at 13:09, Friday, 22 October 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
BARROW AFC joint-boss Dave Bayliss believes his side will be the underdogs when they tackle FC United of Manchester in the FA Cup on Sunday.
The Bluebirds go to Gigg Lane hoping to progress past the fourth qualifying round and, in the process, bank £12,500 in prize money.
And, though Barrow sit 39 places above their Evo-Stick League Premier Division opponents in the football pyramid, Bayliss feels his side go into the potential banana-skin tie as second favourites.
The FA Trophy holders have not won any of their last seven games and now reside in the Blue Square Bet Premier relegation zone.
“I’d say we’re underdogs, not favourites, for the game,” said Bayliss.
“FC United are probably a bigger club fan-base-wise than we are and are at home.
“There will probably be about 2,500 there on Sunday, so it should be a great atmosphere inside a good Football League ground.
“At this stage of the competition, you can easily be given an away game on a sloping pitch in front of 300-400 people, but we’ve been given a really good, yet really tough, tie to play in.”
Asked if the cup tie provided a welcome distraction from Barrow’s current league troubles, Bayliss added: “I suppose so. We’ve played well in spells during the last seven games but we haven’t won, which is massively disappointing.
“But every game in football gives you the chance to redeem yourself and the lads, although despondent after last weekend, have trained hard this week and are excited about the game against FC United.
“Because it’s a Sunday game, we’ll do things a bit different and train Saturday morning rather than Friday.
“Especially after the success we’ve had in the FA Cup in the last two years, reaching the third round against Middlesbrough then Sunderland, the lads want more of what they’ve tasted.”
Barrow beat Accrington 2-1 in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Holker Street on Wednesday.
Centre-half Phil Bolland, back from suspension, played the full 90 minutes, while all other players, including Nick Chadwick and Marc Goodfellow, both of whom are returning from injuries, featured for 45 minutes.
Bayliss said: “It went really well.
“Having Bolly back gives us more options again and we’re starting, apart from Simon Wiles obviously and Alan Martin, to get back together the full squad we’ve always wanted.
“We won the game 2-1, with Jason Walker and Mike Pearson scoring.
“The game allowed us to try a few things out, play a bit differently. It gave us some food for thought.”
Meanwhile, Bayliss rubbished rumours linking Barrow with a move for former Everton and Arsenal striker Franny Jeffers. He joked: “We’re more likely to get Franny Lee!”
Elsewhere, other ex-Premier League stars are being linked with clubs in non-league’s top-flight.
Former Arsenal winger Robert Pires is reported to be a target for big-spending Crawley Town, while former Manchester United and Newcastle wideman Keith Gillespie is to have a trial at Darlington.
l The draw for the FA Cup first round will be televised live on ITV on Sunday at 12.30pm
Barrow’s game at FC United kicks off at 3pm, meaning both sides will be in the hat, alongside League One and Two clubs like Sheffield Wednesday, Southampton and Charlton.
First published at 13:09, Friday, 22 October 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Why United manager Karl still loves Barrow
Source: North West Evening Mail
FC UNITED manager Karl Marginson tells the Mail’s MATT DAVIES why he regards Barrow AFC as the best club he ever played for; manically celebrating the goal that clinched the NPL title in 1998; and a surprise career move for former Bluebirds boss Owen Brown
WHATEVER the result at Gigg Lane on Sunday, Barrow AFC will always command a special place in Karl Marginson’s heart.
The FC United of Manchester boss would like nothing more than to mastermind an FA Cup shock by dumping the Blue Square Bet Premier side out of the FA Cup.
But when the dust settles on what should be an absorbing tie – the Northern Premier’s most ambitious outfit against the renowned FA Cup fighters and FA Trophy holders – Marginson will still regard the Bluebirds as one of his favourite clubs.
“I have great memories of Barrow,” says the 39-year-old Mancunian, whose graft and craft in midfield played its part in AFC’s Unibond Premier Division title winning season of 1997/98.
Most fans remember him for the diving header against Boston United which clinched the title, but Marginson’s contribution was much greater than that one act of bravery and skill at the Holker Street end.
The former Rotherham United man was a member of a very strong squad assembled by manager Owen Brown, and made 78 appearances. He would have played more games but for injuries and he won supporters over with his gritty displays and sweet left foot.
“When I started there I didn’t set the world on fire with my performances, but then I got my head down and worked hard and things turned around for me,” says Marginson.
“My abiding memory of Barrow fans – and it’s pretty similar to FC United fans really – is that as long as you go out and give 100 per cent for the team they’ll give you their full support and that’s what a football crowd is all about.
“I’ve played at places where they don’t recognise the effort that goes in. But that’s not the case at Barrow and at FC United, where if you put 100 per cent in and play for the shirt, the fans respect you.”
Marginson guaranteed his name will forever be etched in AFC folklore, on the evening of April 21, 1998, when Brown’s boys needed a result against old enemies Boston to seal the title and bring Conference football back to the town for the first time in six years.
A milkman at the time, Marginson showed a lotta bottle to arrive at the near post fractionally ahead of Boston keeper Paul Bastock and plant a Neil Morton cross into the net, sending the Holker Street end into raptures.
He correctly remembers there being a ‘bit of history’ with Bastock. The Boston man was a hate figure at Holker Street after he made gestures to the crowd following a bad injury to AFC defender Tim Parkin in a game in February 1994, and that made Marginson even more determined to win that challenge in the six-yard-box.
“I made the run and the keeper’s come out and I thought I’ll collide into him, if you like, and luckily somehow it’s hit my head and bounced in,” he says.
“After that goal I ran around for about 10 minutes like a wailing banshee!
“The winning goal against Boston definitely stands out, but I also remember we had a game against Blyth and we were 1-0 down. I managed to get a couple of free-kicks to give us a vital win. The first free-kick I took early when the keeper was setting his wall up, and then the next one they actually put a lad on the line and I managed to bend it over the wall and in, so that was pleasing. There’s not many games when you manage to score two free-kicks.”
“I really, really enjoyed my time at Barrow,” adds Marginson.
“I’ve got to say, playing-wise, Barrow is my favourite club I played at without a shadow of a doubt. Because of the fans, it’s really a Football League club.
“It’s a Football League club and with Dave (Bayliss) and Darren (Sheridan) I’m sure they are going in the right direction because they know the game inside out.
“And with them being full-time now, and able to work on things on the training ground, then hopefully they can get back up there.
“The Conference is changing that much now it’s frightening – you’ve got the likes of Luton, Darlington, Mansfield, and Grimsby, and with the finances that they can throw at it it’s going to be tough to compete at the top of the league. But I’m sure Barrow can hold their own.”
One of the hallmarks of the 97/98 title-winning squad was their never-say-die attitude and great team spirit, and although a glorious era was to come to a pretty abrupt end soon after as the Stephen Vaughan reign came crashing down, Marginson still keeps in touch with some of his old team-mates, including current AFC skipper Paul Jones. He is still in touch with boss Brown too, who, Marginson hears, is now on the Inter Milan payroll, under former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez, whom the Scouser worked for at Anfield.
“Now and again I’ve spoken to Jonesy and I’m looking forward to seeing him again,” he says.
“I tried to sign him a few years ago. He wasn’t getting in but Phil Wilson (then Barrow manager) was reluctant to let him go – as he would be, because he’s a good player.
“The squad actually had a reunion about four years ago in Liverpool. Owen Brown set it up and it was a great night.
“I still speak to Owen now and again – he’s got a decent job by the way.
“He was Rafa Benitez’s right-hand man at Liverpool and he’s taken him to Inter Milan as his European scout.”
Marginson’s career path after his AFC stint saw him play for several non-league clubs in the Greater Manchester area, before the lifelong Manchester United fan was appointed as the first manager of the newly-formed FC United in June 2005, leading the club to three successive promotions. His role with the Red Rebels is much more than managing the first team however.
He explains: “We do a lot of work in the community.
“It’s a massive part of the club, getting out and coaching in some of the deprived areas of Manchester, so I’m basically full-time coaching.”
Marginson’s most pressing current concern at FC United of course, is to try and knock Barrow out of the cup on Sunday – but, whatever the result, he’ll always remain an AFC fan, and a hero in the eyes of Bluebirds supporters.
First published at 13:07, Wednesday, 20 October 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
FC UNITED manager Karl Marginson tells the Mail’s MATT DAVIES why he regards Barrow AFC as the best club he ever played for; manically celebrating the goal that clinched the NPL title in 1998; and a surprise career move for former Bluebirds boss Owen Brown
WHATEVER the result at Gigg Lane on Sunday, Barrow AFC will always command a special place in Karl Marginson’s heart.
The FC United of Manchester boss would like nothing more than to mastermind an FA Cup shock by dumping the Blue Square Bet Premier side out of the FA Cup.
But when the dust settles on what should be an absorbing tie – the Northern Premier’s most ambitious outfit against the renowned FA Cup fighters and FA Trophy holders – Marginson will still regard the Bluebirds as one of his favourite clubs.
“I have great memories of Barrow,” says the 39-year-old Mancunian, whose graft and craft in midfield played its part in AFC’s Unibond Premier Division title winning season of 1997/98.
Most fans remember him for the diving header against Boston United which clinched the title, but Marginson’s contribution was much greater than that one act of bravery and skill at the Holker Street end.
The former Rotherham United man was a member of a very strong squad assembled by manager Owen Brown, and made 78 appearances. He would have played more games but for injuries and he won supporters over with his gritty displays and sweet left foot.
“When I started there I didn’t set the world on fire with my performances, but then I got my head down and worked hard and things turned around for me,” says Marginson.
“My abiding memory of Barrow fans – and it’s pretty similar to FC United fans really – is that as long as you go out and give 100 per cent for the team they’ll give you their full support and that’s what a football crowd is all about.
“I’ve played at places where they don’t recognise the effort that goes in. But that’s not the case at Barrow and at FC United, where if you put 100 per cent in and play for the shirt, the fans respect you.”
Marginson guaranteed his name will forever be etched in AFC folklore, on the evening of April 21, 1998, when Brown’s boys needed a result against old enemies Boston to seal the title and bring Conference football back to the town for the first time in six years.
A milkman at the time, Marginson showed a lotta bottle to arrive at the near post fractionally ahead of Boston keeper Paul Bastock and plant a Neil Morton cross into the net, sending the Holker Street end into raptures.
He correctly remembers there being a ‘bit of history’ with Bastock. The Boston man was a hate figure at Holker Street after he made gestures to the crowd following a bad injury to AFC defender Tim Parkin in a game in February 1994, and that made Marginson even more determined to win that challenge in the six-yard-box.
“I made the run and the keeper’s come out and I thought I’ll collide into him, if you like, and luckily somehow it’s hit my head and bounced in,” he says.
“After that goal I ran around for about 10 minutes like a wailing banshee!
“The winning goal against Boston definitely stands out, but I also remember we had a game against Blyth and we were 1-0 down. I managed to get a couple of free-kicks to give us a vital win. The first free-kick I took early when the keeper was setting his wall up, and then the next one they actually put a lad on the line and I managed to bend it over the wall and in, so that was pleasing. There’s not many games when you manage to score two free-kicks.”
“I really, really enjoyed my time at Barrow,” adds Marginson.
“I’ve got to say, playing-wise, Barrow is my favourite club I played at without a shadow of a doubt. Because of the fans, it’s really a Football League club.
“It’s a Football League club and with Dave (Bayliss) and Darren (Sheridan) I’m sure they are going in the right direction because they know the game inside out.
“And with them being full-time now, and able to work on things on the training ground, then hopefully they can get back up there.
“The Conference is changing that much now it’s frightening – you’ve got the likes of Luton, Darlington, Mansfield, and Grimsby, and with the finances that they can throw at it it’s going to be tough to compete at the top of the league. But I’m sure Barrow can hold their own.”
One of the hallmarks of the 97/98 title-winning squad was their never-say-die attitude and great team spirit, and although a glorious era was to come to a pretty abrupt end soon after as the Stephen Vaughan reign came crashing down, Marginson still keeps in touch with some of his old team-mates, including current AFC skipper Paul Jones. He is still in touch with boss Brown too, who, Marginson hears, is now on the Inter Milan payroll, under former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez, whom the Scouser worked for at Anfield.
“Now and again I’ve spoken to Jonesy and I’m looking forward to seeing him again,” he says.
“I tried to sign him a few years ago. He wasn’t getting in but Phil Wilson (then Barrow manager) was reluctant to let him go – as he would be, because he’s a good player.
“The squad actually had a reunion about four years ago in Liverpool. Owen Brown set it up and it was a great night.
“I still speak to Owen now and again – he’s got a decent job by the way.
“He was Rafa Benitez’s right-hand man at Liverpool and he’s taken him to Inter Milan as his European scout.”
Marginson’s career path after his AFC stint saw him play for several non-league clubs in the Greater Manchester area, before the lifelong Manchester United fan was appointed as the first manager of the newly-formed FC United in June 2005, leading the club to three successive promotions. His role with the Red Rebels is much more than managing the first team however.
He explains: “We do a lot of work in the community.
“It’s a massive part of the club, getting out and coaching in some of the deprived areas of Manchester, so I’m basically full-time coaching.”
Marginson’s most pressing current concern at FC United of course, is to try and knock Barrow out of the cup on Sunday – but, whatever the result, he’ll always remain an AFC fan, and a hero in the eyes of Bluebirds supporters.
First published at 13:07, Wednesday, 20 October 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
FC United boss issues challenge to Barrow AFC fans
Source: North West Evening Mail
KARL Marginson has challenged Barrow AFC’s rowdy away-day supporters to try and match the noise made by their FC United counterparts this weekend.
Former Bluebirds midfielder Marginson knows all about AFC’s noisy travelling support, and as FC United boss he also knows how loud the Manchester club’s fans can be – so he is expecting a vocal battle on the terraces during Sunday’s FA Cup fourth qualifying round clash.
“I wanted an away draw, but if it’s going to be anybody as a home draw then Barrow, with the fantastic support they’ve got, is great for us,” said Marginson.
“Having played up at Holker Street and knowing the fans up there, it will be interesting to see the contest off the pitch between the supporters, in terms of how loud they are.
“I’m sure people up there have heard about FC United fans and their constant singing, so it will be a challenge for Barrow fans to see if they can come up with something and set down a marker with their support as well. It should be a great atmosphere, that’s for sure.”
Marginson played 78 games for Barrow during a three-season spell in the late 1990s, the highlights being a Northern Premier League title winners’ medal in 1997-8, and the FA Trophy quarter-final epic against Dover that same season.
The first Dover game ended in a 1-1 draw, with Barrow losing the replay at Holker Street, but Marginson remembers the occasion as much for the massive army of AFC fans who made the long journey to the south coast, than for the actual result.
And the 39-year-old Mancunian is hoping another exodus from Furness will help fill the Gigg Lane stands on Sunday, and in doing so help swell the FC United coffers.
The Evostick Premier Division side – formed five years ago following American businessman Malcolm Glazer’s controversial takeover at Old Trafford – are hoping to raise millions of pounds to pay for the building of their own 5,000-capacity ground in Newton Heath, the original home of Manchester United.
“Playing at Gigg Lane costs us a few quid so hopefully the fact that Barrow are coming down with a big travelling support will go some way to paying for that kind of stuff,” he said.
“I was telling the lads down here about the game at Dover away.
“I remember the overhead kick by Coatesy (Marc Coates) and there must have been 1,000 to 1,500 Barrow fans there, which, when you think about it, is absolutely unbelievable – and that’s similar to the sort of support FC United bring to away games. I’m excited about it, I can’t wait.”
He added: “We’re trying to get the money together to build our own ground, but we need £3.5m, so our dream would be to get to the third round and draw a big club, but that’s a long way away.
“But even getting to the first round would be a major achievement for us, the media interest it would create and everything else would be something special.”
Marginson is hoping the FA Cup’s historic reputation for producing shock results will prove itself again and see his side dump out Barrow, who lie two leagues above them, and progress to the first round.
“From a footballing point of view it’s going to be a very tough ask for us, but you never know, cup football and all the cliches that go with it, and it’s definitely one for us to look forward to and go in with no pressure on us really,” he said.
“It’s just a case of going into it with the attitude of – enjoy the day, enjoy the occasion and give a good account of ourselves.
“Obviously you go into any game with thoughts of winning the football match, and that will be no different against Barrow.
“They are the highest-placed team we have faced so it would be a major achievement if we could beat them. If we could pull it off. But it’s 90 minutes or 180 minutes of hard slog and toil before it’s settled.”
First published at 13:07, Wednesday, 20 October 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
KARL Marginson has challenged Barrow AFC’s rowdy away-day supporters to try and match the noise made by their FC United counterparts this weekend.
Former Bluebirds midfielder Marginson knows all about AFC’s noisy travelling support, and as FC United boss he also knows how loud the Manchester club’s fans can be – so he is expecting a vocal battle on the terraces during Sunday’s FA Cup fourth qualifying round clash.
“I wanted an away draw, but if it’s going to be anybody as a home draw then Barrow, with the fantastic support they’ve got, is great for us,” said Marginson.
“Having played up at Holker Street and knowing the fans up there, it will be interesting to see the contest off the pitch between the supporters, in terms of how loud they are.
“I’m sure people up there have heard about FC United fans and their constant singing, so it will be a challenge for Barrow fans to see if they can come up with something and set down a marker with their support as well. It should be a great atmosphere, that’s for sure.”
Marginson played 78 games for Barrow during a three-season spell in the late 1990s, the highlights being a Northern Premier League title winners’ medal in 1997-8, and the FA Trophy quarter-final epic against Dover that same season.
The first Dover game ended in a 1-1 draw, with Barrow losing the replay at Holker Street, but Marginson remembers the occasion as much for the massive army of AFC fans who made the long journey to the south coast, than for the actual result.
And the 39-year-old Mancunian is hoping another exodus from Furness will help fill the Gigg Lane stands on Sunday, and in doing so help swell the FC United coffers.
The Evostick Premier Division side – formed five years ago following American businessman Malcolm Glazer’s controversial takeover at Old Trafford – are hoping to raise millions of pounds to pay for the building of their own 5,000-capacity ground in Newton Heath, the original home of Manchester United.
“Playing at Gigg Lane costs us a few quid so hopefully the fact that Barrow are coming down with a big travelling support will go some way to paying for that kind of stuff,” he said.
“I was telling the lads down here about the game at Dover away.
“I remember the overhead kick by Coatesy (Marc Coates) and there must have been 1,000 to 1,500 Barrow fans there, which, when you think about it, is absolutely unbelievable – and that’s similar to the sort of support FC United bring to away games. I’m excited about it, I can’t wait.”
He added: “We’re trying to get the money together to build our own ground, but we need £3.5m, so our dream would be to get to the third round and draw a big club, but that’s a long way away.
“But even getting to the first round would be a major achievement for us, the media interest it would create and everything else would be something special.”
Marginson is hoping the FA Cup’s historic reputation for producing shock results will prove itself again and see his side dump out Barrow, who lie two leagues above them, and progress to the first round.
“From a footballing point of view it’s going to be a very tough ask for us, but you never know, cup football and all the cliches that go with it, and it’s definitely one for us to look forward to and go in with no pressure on us really,” he said.
“It’s just a case of going into it with the attitude of – enjoy the day, enjoy the occasion and give a good account of ourselves.
“Obviously you go into any game with thoughts of winning the football match, and that will be no different against Barrow.
“They are the highest-placed team we have faced so it would be a major achievement if we could beat them. If we could pull it off. But it’s 90 minutes or 180 minutes of hard slog and toil before it’s settled.”
First published at 13:07, Wednesday, 20 October 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Still standing United as one
By David Pickthall
BARROW AFC’s FA Cup fourth qualifying opponents, FC United of Manchester, visited Barrow in 2005 to play Holker Old Boys, in what was then the Moore and Co Construction Solicitors North West Counties Division Two.
Their travelling army of fans sang “follow, follow, follow, because United are going to Barrow” (to the popular football chant melody from the Felix Cat Food advert).
A trip to Furness was another anticipated journey into the unknown for a bunch of supporters disillusioned by the American ownership at Premier League Manchester United.
Away days at small grounds (it was actually Barrow RL’s Craven Park that day, with 2,300 in attendance) signalled a breath of fresh air at the opposite end of the football pyramid, away from the dollars and everything they had come to hate about the new regime at Old Trafford.
FC United overtook Holker and countless others and today play their football in The Evostick Premier Division, alongside clubs such as Kendal Town and Northwich Victoria.
Their rapid progress has levelled-off somewhat since then (they are 16th in the Evostick Prem) – well, it has if you compare it to that of another off-shoot club, AFC Wimbledon, who have marched up the pyramid and now play alongside Barrow in the Conference Premier.
But FC United are well set for the future and, most importantly to their rebel fans, true to their founding principles.
They should provide a decent test for Barrow at Bury’s Gigg Lane a week on Sunday.
And everything about the day will suggest the Bluebirds are playing a team placed much higher than FC United actually are – a-near 12,000 capacity Football League stadium likely to be bouncing with FC United fans and a strong Barrow travelling support.
It’s timely that Barrow should draw a club formed in rebellion against American ownership when a certain other US partnership appear to have brought a different famous English football club to its knees.
Liverpool fans will be praying that Hicks and Gillett will be long gone by the time Barrow play FC United.
The Glazers – the reason FC United were formed – will still be sitting pretty a few miles down the road in Manchester.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Big draw for Barrow AFC in FA Cup
Source: North West Evening Mail
Last updated at 14:31, Monday, 11 October 2010
BARROW AFC have been handed a big away tie in the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup at FC United of Manchester.
United, formed by disaffected supporters of Premier League Manchester United, play in the Evostick Premier Division and attract thousands of supporters to their matches at Bury’s Gigg Lane.
They beat Norton and Stockon 5-2 in the third qualifying round and will host Barrow on Sunday, October 24, as Bury are at home to Southend in League Two onSaturday, october 23..
See tomorrow’s Evening Mail for full report and reaction.
Last updated at 14:31, Monday, 11 October 2010
BARROW AFC have been handed a big away tie in the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup at FC United of Manchester.
United, formed by disaffected supporters of Premier League Manchester United, play in the Evostick Premier Division and attract thousands of supporters to their matches at Bury’s Gigg Lane.
They beat Norton and Stockon 5-2 in the third qualifying round and will host Barrow on Sunday, October 24, as Bury are at home to Southend in League Two onSaturday, october 23..
See tomorrow’s Evening Mail for full report and reaction.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Swarbrick and FC United ready for new challenge
Source: North West Evening Mail
FOOTBALL
BARROW footballer Dave Swarbrick is stepping up another level this season with his league-storming FC United of Manchester team.
The former Barrow AFC and Holker Old Boys attacking midfielder will line-up in Unibond League Division One North as the supporters’ spin-off team look to continue their march up the tiers of English football.
And Swarbrick is optimistic for both his own and his team’s fortunes ahead of the new campaign.
“Pre-season has gone really well. It’s my first full pre-season in a while so I’m feeling good,” said the 23-year-old, who trains twice a week with the squad in the Manchester area.
“The training has been really hard, but all the lads have naturally high levels of fitness.
“I’m confident in myself and the team are definitely confident.
“We recently drew with a strong Kidderminster side and they are a Conference team.”
FC United, formed in 2005 by supporters angry at Malcolm Glazer’s takeover of Manchster United, have shown well in their pre-season friendlies and Swarbrick believes that promotion is a realistic target.
“We’ve played friendlies against teams from higher divisions and we’ve coped well,” said Swarbrick, whose 2006/07 season was disrupted by a knee problem which required an operation.
“I think we’re capable of challenging for the title this season.”
One player Swarbrick will not be lining up alongside this season is Rhodri Giggs — brother of Ryan — who was recently released by the Red Rebels and is rumoured to be joining rivals Curzon Ashton. The opening fixture in FC United’s league campaign is on Saturday, August 18 with a trip to Lancaster City.
And, with former Furness Cavaliers centre-half Chris Lysons now signed up and playing for the Dolly Blues, the season opener could provide a match-up between former team-mates.
“Chris is a good player and I think he can do well in that league,” said Swarbrick.
Lysons could be joined at Giant Axe this coming season by Millom-based ex-AFC striker Carl Waters and Furness Cavaliers frontman Pat Staunton. Both have been trialing for the Dolly Blues during this pre-season.
l Dalton United were held to a goalless draw at home by Garstang in the West Lancs Premier Division on Tuesday night. The Railway Meadow outfit — who won their season opener 3-2 against Barnoldswick — hit the woodwork three times and had two penalty shouts turned down.
Co-manager Jon Balm said: “I was really pleased with our performance, we did everything but score.
“Garstang came to do a job and put 10 men behind the ball.”
During the game, teenager Joel Callister broke his nose and cracked his cheekbone following an accidental clash of heads. He is recovering at home.
Sam Stephens played in goal but is expected to return for Holker Old Boys this Saturday when they begin their North West Counties Division Two campaign at home to Bootle.
l There will be a benefit match for well-known local footballer Andy Baharmanesh this Sunday.
The game between Vickerstown and Barrow AFC reserves will take place at Park Vale (2pm start).
Baharmanesh suffered a serious leg injury while playing for AFC reserves in January.
The horrific injury left the soldier’s army career in tatters.
AFC reserves won their second pre-season friendly when they defeated Bootle 6-3 at Holker Street on Tuesday night.
Tod Bamber (2), Kris Lancaster (2), Phil Morris and Liam Holmes netted for the Bluebirds in a highly-entertaining game.
The Bootle scorers were Andrew Marshall, Wayne Dawson and Steven Moore.
AFC reserve team boss Ian Gay would like to thank Bootle for their co-operation in arranging the fixture.
AFC reserves: C Burns, D Pattinson, G Smith, J MCGoldrick, P Johnson, W Napier, J Gay, K Lancaster, T Bamber, J Jones, P Morris. Subs used: R Grainey, L Holmes.
l There were two preliminary round games in the Paul Wilson Memorial Trophy on Monday night.
Holders BAE Barrow SC reserves beat Furness Cavaliers reserves 5-4 after extra-time.
The scores were tied at 4-4 after 90 minutes, with the extra-time winner coming from player/manager Stuart Walker.
The other scorers for BAE were Stuart Houston, Grant Cumberbatch, Danny Graham and Mark Bonner. Cavs’ scorers were Michael Johnson, Dale Cleece, Steve Morgan and Stephen Lancaster.
In the other game, Furness Athletic (previously called Furness Hotel) began their season with an excellent 2-1 win at Tummerhill against Walney Island.
Their man-of-the-match James McGoldrick scored both goals, with Chris Burns replying for Walney.
The Furness Premier League season starts in earnest this weekend with Premier Division games tomorrow night (6.15pm) and Division One games on Saturday afternoon (2pm.)
Clubs are reminded that results should be texted to 07709 695250 by the home club and should include the scorers from both teams.
FOOTBALL
BARROW footballer Dave Swarbrick is stepping up another level this season with his league-storming FC United of Manchester team.
The former Barrow AFC and Holker Old Boys attacking midfielder will line-up in Unibond League Division One North as the supporters’ spin-off team look to continue their march up the tiers of English football.
And Swarbrick is optimistic for both his own and his team’s fortunes ahead of the new campaign.
“Pre-season has gone really well. It’s my first full pre-season in a while so I’m feeling good,” said the 23-year-old, who trains twice a week with the squad in the Manchester area.
“The training has been really hard, but all the lads have naturally high levels of fitness.
“I’m confident in myself and the team are definitely confident.
“We recently drew with a strong Kidderminster side and they are a Conference team.”
FC United, formed in 2005 by supporters angry at Malcolm Glazer’s takeover of Manchster United, have shown well in their pre-season friendlies and Swarbrick believes that promotion is a realistic target.
“We’ve played friendlies against teams from higher divisions and we’ve coped well,” said Swarbrick, whose 2006/07 season was disrupted by a knee problem which required an operation.
“I think we’re capable of challenging for the title this season.”
One player Swarbrick will not be lining up alongside this season is Rhodri Giggs — brother of Ryan — who was recently released by the Red Rebels and is rumoured to be joining rivals Curzon Ashton. The opening fixture in FC United’s league campaign is on Saturday, August 18 with a trip to Lancaster City.
And, with former Furness Cavaliers centre-half Chris Lysons now signed up and playing for the Dolly Blues, the season opener could provide a match-up between former team-mates.
“Chris is a good player and I think he can do well in that league,” said Swarbrick.
Lysons could be joined at Giant Axe this coming season by Millom-based ex-AFC striker Carl Waters and Furness Cavaliers frontman Pat Staunton. Both have been trialing for the Dolly Blues during this pre-season.
l Dalton United were held to a goalless draw at home by Garstang in the West Lancs Premier Division on Tuesday night. The Railway Meadow outfit — who won their season opener 3-2 against Barnoldswick — hit the woodwork three times and had two penalty shouts turned down.
Co-manager Jon Balm said: “I was really pleased with our performance, we did everything but score.
“Garstang came to do a job and put 10 men behind the ball.”
During the game, teenager Joel Callister broke his nose and cracked his cheekbone following an accidental clash of heads. He is recovering at home.
Sam Stephens played in goal but is expected to return for Holker Old Boys this Saturday when they begin their North West Counties Division Two campaign at home to Bootle.
l There will be a benefit match for well-known local footballer Andy Baharmanesh this Sunday.
The game between Vickerstown and Barrow AFC reserves will take place at Park Vale (2pm start).
Baharmanesh suffered a serious leg injury while playing for AFC reserves in January.
The horrific injury left the soldier’s army career in tatters.
AFC reserves won their second pre-season friendly when they defeated Bootle 6-3 at Holker Street on Tuesday night.
Tod Bamber (2), Kris Lancaster (2), Phil Morris and Liam Holmes netted for the Bluebirds in a highly-entertaining game.
The Bootle scorers were Andrew Marshall, Wayne Dawson and Steven Moore.
AFC reserve team boss Ian Gay would like to thank Bootle for their co-operation in arranging the fixture.
AFC reserves: C Burns, D Pattinson, G Smith, J MCGoldrick, P Johnson, W Napier, J Gay, K Lancaster, T Bamber, J Jones, P Morris. Subs used: R Grainey, L Holmes.
l There were two preliminary round games in the Paul Wilson Memorial Trophy on Monday night.
Holders BAE Barrow SC reserves beat Furness Cavaliers reserves 5-4 after extra-time.
The scores were tied at 4-4 after 90 minutes, with the extra-time winner coming from player/manager Stuart Walker.
The other scorers for BAE were Stuart Houston, Grant Cumberbatch, Danny Graham and Mark Bonner. Cavs’ scorers were Michael Johnson, Dale Cleece, Steve Morgan and Stephen Lancaster.
In the other game, Furness Athletic (previously called Furness Hotel) began their season with an excellent 2-1 win at Tummerhill against Walney Island.
Their man-of-the-match James McGoldrick scored both goals, with Chris Burns replying for Walney.
The Furness Premier League season starts in earnest this weekend with Premier Division games tomorrow night (6.15pm) and Division One games on Saturday afternoon (2pm.)
Clubs are reminded that results should be texted to 07709 695250 by the home club and should include the scorers from both teams.
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