Source: This is Lancashire
8:15am Thursday 4th March 2010
A FORMER semi-professional footballer has been jailed for two years after admitting working as a loan shark.
Tony Cullen, aged 36, of Myrtle Grove, Whitefield, was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court, alongside five other family members involved in a complex and long-running swindle.
The catalogue of fraud was exposed after Tony Cullen’s brother David, aged 30, from Salford, was jailed for 10 years for robbing a bank in 2006. A probe into his luxury lifestyle revealed he bought a house in Scott Road, Prestwich, for £100,000 with a cash deposit of £40,000.
He also bought a Harley Davison pick-up truck for about £23,000 and an £8,000 Fiat Stylo for his girlfriend Natasha Smyth, who was herself fraudulently claiming benefits.
The court heard David Cullen ran money through the accounts of Tony and his brother, Arron of Rydal Grove, Whitefield, because they were both working.
Tony Cullen was once on the books of Premier League sides Aston Villa and Blackburn Rovers and also played for Radcliffe Borough.
He joined semi-professional team FC United of Manchester when it formed in July 2005, playing home matches at Gigg Lane, Bury.
The player became the club’s first reserve team manager in 2006, but left United before these charges were brought.
Tony Cullen admitted earning £8,000 a month on the interest from unlicensed loans.
He drove a £30,000 Range Rover Vogue previously owned by Manchester United player Ryan Giggs.
Tony Cullen’s girlfriend, Christina Williamson, drove a £26,000 Volkswagen Toureg. Police found jewellery at their home worth £50,000. Tony Cullen admitted money laundering, running an illegal money lending business and conspiracy to commit benefit fraud. Williamson was given a 12-month suspended jail term and 250 hours of community service.
David Cullen admitted 13 counts of money laundering and a charge of conspiracy to defraud benefits and possessing a false passport. He was jailed for an additional three years.
Their mother, Bernadette Cullen, aged 55, of Higher Broughton, admitted conspiracy to defraud, two charges of dishonestly, making false statements and converting or concealing criminal property. She was jailed for 15 months.
Aaron Cullen, aged 27, admitted money laundering and was jailed for two years. Smyth admitted money laundering and benefit fraud and was given a 12-month suspended prison sentence.
Showing posts with label This is Lancashire. Show all posts
Showing posts with label This is Lancashire. Show all posts
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Community work nets club award
Source: This is Lancashire
8:10am Saturday 29th August 2009
BURY-based football club FC United has “netted” a top award to mark its commitment to the community.
The club has bagged a coveted Co-operative Excellence Award for its work with schools, its provision of training and its status as an integral part of the town.
It received the award from Co-operativesUK at the Gigg Lane stadium where FC United play their home fixtures.
Ben Reid, chairman of Co-operativesUK, said FC United achieved its aim of being a supporter-run club that works with the community.
He added: “They are worthy of this award for all they have done to forward understanding of co-operation and co-operative values and principles.”
Phil Sheeran, one of the 11 FC United directors elected by the membership, commented: “We are very grateful to Co-operativesUK for recognising the club's work and honouring us with this prestigious award.”
FC United is also working with Co-operativesUK and the Development Trusts Association as part of a programme called Community Shares, to raise finance from its members for a new stadium.
The soccer club will now go forward to the Global Awards for Co-operative Excellence to be held in Switzerland in November.
8:10am Saturday 29th August 2009
BURY-based football club FC United has “netted” a top award to mark its commitment to the community.
The club has bagged a coveted Co-operative Excellence Award for its work with schools, its provision of training and its status as an integral part of the town.
It received the award from Co-operativesUK at the Gigg Lane stadium where FC United play their home fixtures.
Ben Reid, chairman of Co-operativesUK, said FC United achieved its aim of being a supporter-run club that works with the community.
He added: “They are worthy of this award for all they have done to forward understanding of co-operation and co-operative values and principles.”
Phil Sheeran, one of the 11 FC United directors elected by the membership, commented: “We are very grateful to Co-operativesUK for recognising the club's work and honouring us with this prestigious award.”
FC United is also working with Co-operativesUK and the Development Trusts Association as part of a programme called Community Shares, to raise finance from its members for a new stadium.
The soccer club will now go forward to the Global Awards for Co-operative Excellence to be held in Switzerland in November.
Monday, December 01, 2008
Bacup Borough lose top goalscorer to FC United
11:57am Monday 1st December 2008
BACUP Borough have lost Tommy Turner to FC United despite seven days of intense talks between the star striker and manager Brent Peters.
The Bacup boss had attempted to keep the striker at the club but had to admit defeat on Friday afternoon, as the lure of playing in front of large crowds for FC United of Manchester proved too great.
Turner, who leads the Lancashire Telegraph’s golden boot standings for the top non-league goalscorer in East Lancashire after finding the net 17 times this season, said: “This has probably been one of my hardest weeks in terms of the decision I have had to make.
“I can’t get away from the fact that I have always fancied the chance to play for FC United of Manchester.
“I just could not let this opportunity pass me by.
“Brent and myself have had several in-depth talks over the week and it really has been very difficult for me.
“I realise there is unfinished business at Bacup. I am sure that it will not be the last you will see of me in a Bacup Borough shirt.”
Peters said: “Almost every week there has been interest in Tommy from various other clubs.
“The most disappointing aspect for me is the fact that I firmly believe that there was a bigger and better move on the horizon for Tommy the way that he was going.
“I genuinely do hope that this move does not scupper his chances of a career-changing move because he is a top lad with bags of ability and obviously his goalscoring record does speak for itself.
“Bacup Borough will hold on to his North West Counties League registration. Should things not work out, then he will return.
“Situations like this can, but hopefully won’t, have an adverse effect on a season which we still have everything to play for.”
BACUP Borough have lost Tommy Turner to FC United despite seven days of intense talks between the star striker and manager Brent Peters.
The Bacup boss had attempted to keep the striker at the club but had to admit defeat on Friday afternoon, as the lure of playing in front of large crowds for FC United of Manchester proved too great.
Turner, who leads the Lancashire Telegraph’s golden boot standings for the top non-league goalscorer in East Lancashire after finding the net 17 times this season, said: “This has probably been one of my hardest weeks in terms of the decision I have had to make.
“I can’t get away from the fact that I have always fancied the chance to play for FC United of Manchester.
“I just could not let this opportunity pass me by.
“Brent and myself have had several in-depth talks over the week and it really has been very difficult for me.
“I realise there is unfinished business at Bacup. I am sure that it will not be the last you will see of me in a Bacup Borough shirt.”
Peters said: “Almost every week there has been interest in Tommy from various other clubs.
“The most disappointing aspect for me is the fact that I firmly believe that there was a bigger and better move on the horizon for Tommy the way that he was going.
“I genuinely do hope that this move does not scupper his chances of a career-changing move because he is a top lad with bags of ability and obviously his goalscoring record does speak for itself.
“Bacup Borough will hold on to his North West Counties League registration. Should things not work out, then he will return.
“Situations like this can, but hopefully won’t, have an adverse effect on a season which we still have everything to play for.”
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Bacup Borough boss blasts FC United over striker affair
1:41pm Friday 28th November 2008
BACUP Borough boss Brent Peters has blasted FC United after their attempted transfer of leading scorer Tommy Turner.
The Rebels put in a seven-day notice on Turner last Saturday and, after Peters gave the UniBond Premier Division side early permission to speak Turner, a story claiming they had signed Turner appeared in the press despite no deal being done.
Peters said: “I allowed Karl Marginson to speak to Tommy last week so we knew where we stood.
“Then I was bombarded with calls from our fans on Wednesday asking why we had let our best player go because there was a story in their paper.
"It was on the night when we had an important cup game so I was furious.
“The fact of the matter is that Tommy hasn’t signed for FC United yet, and he hasn't let me know his decision either way.”
BACUP Borough boss Brent Peters has blasted FC United after their attempted transfer of leading scorer Tommy Turner.
The Rebels put in a seven-day notice on Turner last Saturday and, after Peters gave the UniBond Premier Division side early permission to speak Turner, a story claiming they had signed Turner appeared in the press despite no deal being done.
Peters said: “I allowed Karl Marginson to speak to Tommy last week so we knew where we stood.
“Then I was bombarded with calls from our fans on Wednesday asking why we had let our best player go because there was a story in their paper.
"It was on the night when we had an important cup game so I was furious.
“The fact of the matter is that Tommy hasn’t signed for FC United yet, and he hasn't let me know his decision either way.”
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Soccer star pitches in to stop fast food fight
Source: This is Lancashire
By Terry Morgan
TALENTED footballer Bradley Howard is more used to preventing shots from going into the net at Gigg Lane, but the heroic player made a save of a different kind on Saturday.
The left back, who plays for Bury-based team FC United of Manchester, was on his way to the club's away match in Newcastle with four of his teammates when he stepped in to stop a fight in a branch of McDonald's in Urmston.
While queuing for a morning coffee, the 21-year-old former Bolton Wanderers trainee witnessed a furious customer jump over the counter before hurling punches at a member of staff.
Bradley went in hot pursuit of the hothead and stopped his attack.
The man then left the restaurant and staff reported the matter to the police.
"It's not the kind of thing you expect early in the morning on the way to a game, but I just did what anyone would do, with a bit help from some of my team mates who were also in there," said Bradley.
He added: "The guy was angry because he had to wait more than 10 minutes for a burger.
"The staff were pleasant with him, but he started issuing threats and throwing punches. He was a big guy, but you can't have a situation where he's fighting with people.
"The worst thing was that he had a child in the car. "
By Terry Morgan
TALENTED footballer Bradley Howard is more used to preventing shots from going into the net at Gigg Lane, but the heroic player made a save of a different kind on Saturday.
The left back, who plays for Bury-based team FC United of Manchester, was on his way to the club's away match in Newcastle with four of his teammates when he stepped in to stop a fight in a branch of McDonald's in Urmston.
While queuing for a morning coffee, the 21-year-old former Bolton Wanderers trainee witnessed a furious customer jump over the counter before hurling punches at a member of staff.
Bradley went in hot pursuit of the hothead and stopped his attack.
The man then left the restaurant and staff reported the matter to the police.
"It's not the kind of thing you expect early in the morning on the way to a game, but I just did what anyone would do, with a bit help from some of my team mates who were also in there," said Bradley.
He added: "The guy was angry because he had to wait more than 10 minutes for a burger.
"The staff were pleasant with him, but he started issuing threats and throwing punches. He was a big guy, but you can't have a situation where he's fighting with people.
"The worst thing was that he had a child in the car. "
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Rebels take honours in final rehearsal
By Marc Higginson
FC United drew first blood ahead of tomorrow's Presidents Cup final as they kept alive their slim hopes of a third successive title with victory over local rivals Radcliffe Borough.
First-half goals from Jamie Rothen and Chris Baguley cut the gap on leaders Bradford PA, who have played a game less, to four points at the top of UniBond League Division One North.
The result was harsh on Boro, who saw Griff Jones hit the bar, a Steve Howson header cleared off the line and FC goalkeeper Sam Ashton make five crucial saves.
Both teams rested players with the showdown at the Tameside Stadium in mind, but the second-half introduction of FC's prolific strike duo Rory Patterson and Stuart Rudd helped the visitors all but guarantee themselves a place in the play-offs with three games left.
Atherton LR boss Stuart Humphreys is still searching for his first win in charge after watching his struggling side go down 2-1 against Maine Road in North West Counties League Division One.
Chris Quirk grabbed a 16th-minute opener for second-bottom Rovers, but the visitors struck twice after the break to seal the points.
10:25pm Tuesday 15th April 2008
FC United drew first blood ahead of tomorrow's Presidents Cup final as they kept alive their slim hopes of a third successive title with victory over local rivals Radcliffe Borough.
First-half goals from Jamie Rothen and Chris Baguley cut the gap on leaders Bradford PA, who have played a game less, to four points at the top of UniBond League Division One North.
The result was harsh on Boro, who saw Griff Jones hit the bar, a Steve Howson header cleared off the line and FC goalkeeper Sam Ashton make five crucial saves.
Both teams rested players with the showdown at the Tameside Stadium in mind, but the second-half introduction of FC's prolific strike duo Rory Patterson and Stuart Rudd helped the visitors all but guarantee themselves a place in the play-offs with three games left.
Atherton LR boss Stuart Humphreys is still searching for his first win in charge after watching his struggling side go down 2-1 against Maine Road in North West Counties League Division One.
Chris Quirk grabbed a 16th-minute opener for second-bottom Rovers, but the visitors struck twice after the break to seal the points.
10:25pm Tuesday 15th April 2008
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Super Boro book another final place
By Marc Higginson
Radcliffe Boro 3 FC United 1
Manchester Cup semi-final
THEY might be bottom of the league, but Radcliffe Borough have no such worries in the other competitions after another sensational cup performance booked another final date before the end of the season.
Just ten days after earning a place in the final of the Presidents Cup against FC United, Boro struck an early blow on the Rebel Reds by turning the form book upside down and storming into the final of the Manchester Cup against the same opponents.
Missing seven players, Peter Coyne's men came from behind to secure a deserved victory, and make a mockery of their league position - Steve Howson and Michael Oates (2) scoring the goals.
Boro have won only four out of 30 games in UniBond Division One North, but they get the results their performances merit in the cups and have won 13 and drawn one from 18 cup games this season.
It is a bit of a conundrum for Coyne and his management team, but you won't find the Boro director of football turning down the chance of two cup finals.
"It's fantastic to be in two cup finals, and we were always confident about winning this game given our cup form this season," said Coyne.
"I cannot put my finger on why we win in the cup, but struggle in the league. Our performances in the league have been good, and the only thing missing is the results.
"We haven't won anything yet, but it would be nice to pick up a trophy. However, we are striving to get off the bottom of the league first and foremost."
Boro should have been ahead on 21 minutes after both Howson and Oates hit the bar. Oates fed Howson, who saw his lob from 25 yards come back off the bar before watching in disbelief as Oates' powerful follow-up also hit the woodwork.
To rub salt into the home side's wounds, the visitors went into the lead on 32 minutes when Chris Baguley curled a stunning effort into the back of the net from 25 yards.
Undeterred, Boro came fighting back in the second half, and were level on 49 minutes when Howson hammered home his 27th goal of the season after Tony Whealing's free-kick had been fumbled.
FC United were restricted to long-range efforts, and it was no surprise when Boro went into the lead on 61 minutes.
Whealing delivered an inch perfect cross into the box to leave Oates with the simplest of tap-ins for his eighth goal of the season.
Oates then sent the Boro supporters into dreamland nine minutes later when he spun his marker and slotted home with aplomb to seal the tie.
There was still time for Phil Priestley to make a fine double save from Stuart Rudd and Chris Baguley, but Boro held on for a deserved victory.
RADCLIFFE: Priestley, Sampson, Whealing, Kelly, Flynn, C. Dawson, Forrest, Connell, Waine, Howson, Oates. Subs not used: Manning.
3:34pm
Wednesday 19th March 2008
Radcliffe Boro 3 FC United 1
Manchester Cup semi-final
THEY might be bottom of the league, but Radcliffe Borough have no such worries in the other competitions after another sensational cup performance booked another final date before the end of the season.
Just ten days after earning a place in the final of the Presidents Cup against FC United, Boro struck an early blow on the Rebel Reds by turning the form book upside down and storming into the final of the Manchester Cup against the same opponents.
Missing seven players, Peter Coyne's men came from behind to secure a deserved victory, and make a mockery of their league position - Steve Howson and Michael Oates (2) scoring the goals.
Boro have won only four out of 30 games in UniBond Division One North, but they get the results their performances merit in the cups and have won 13 and drawn one from 18 cup games this season.
It is a bit of a conundrum for Coyne and his management team, but you won't find the Boro director of football turning down the chance of two cup finals.
"It's fantastic to be in two cup finals, and we were always confident about winning this game given our cup form this season," said Coyne.
"I cannot put my finger on why we win in the cup, but struggle in the league. Our performances in the league have been good, and the only thing missing is the results.
"We haven't won anything yet, but it would be nice to pick up a trophy. However, we are striving to get off the bottom of the league first and foremost."
Boro should have been ahead on 21 minutes after both Howson and Oates hit the bar. Oates fed Howson, who saw his lob from 25 yards come back off the bar before watching in disbelief as Oates' powerful follow-up also hit the woodwork.
To rub salt into the home side's wounds, the visitors went into the lead on 32 minutes when Chris Baguley curled a stunning effort into the back of the net from 25 yards.
Undeterred, Boro came fighting back in the second half, and were level on 49 minutes when Howson hammered home his 27th goal of the season after Tony Whealing's free-kick had been fumbled.
FC United were restricted to long-range efforts, and it was no surprise when Boro went into the lead on 61 minutes.
Whealing delivered an inch perfect cross into the box to leave Oates with the simplest of tap-ins for his eighth goal of the season.
Oates then sent the Boro supporters into dreamland nine minutes later when he spun his marker and slotted home with aplomb to seal the tie.
There was still time for Phil Priestley to make a fine double save from Stuart Rudd and Chris Baguley, but Boro held on for a deserved victory.
RADCLIFFE: Priestley, Sampson, Whealing, Kelly, Flynn, C. Dawson, Forrest, Connell, Waine, Howson, Oates. Subs not used: Manning.
3:34pm
Wednesday 19th March 2008
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Boro end Rebels' treble dreams
By Marc Higginson
Radcliffe Borough 3 FC United 1
RADCLIFFE Borough booked a second cup final appearance of the season with a well-earned victory over neighbours FC United.
Boro had to come from behind after Chris Baguley's 25-yard strike had put the treble-chasing Rebels in front on 32 minutes in the Manchester Cup semi-final clash at Stainton Park.
That was tough on Radcliffe, who hit the bar twice before their high-flying UniBond Division One North rivals had opened the scoring.
But Peter Coyne's side roared back after the break and were level within four minutes when Steve Howson smashed home the rebound after goalkeeper Sam Ashton could only parry Tony Whealing's free-kick.
Boro, rooted to the bottom of the table, took the lead on 59 minutes when Michael Oates tapped home Whealing's cross from the left.
And victory was sealed nine minutes later when Oates outstripped his marker to add a third and set up a final showdown with Blue Square North outfit Hyde United at Oldham Athletic's Boundary Park ground.
10:32pm
Tuesday 18th March 2008
Radcliffe Borough 3 FC United 1
RADCLIFFE Borough booked a second cup final appearance of the season with a well-earned victory over neighbours FC United.
Boro had to come from behind after Chris Baguley's 25-yard strike had put the treble-chasing Rebels in front on 32 minutes in the Manchester Cup semi-final clash at Stainton Park.
That was tough on Radcliffe, who hit the bar twice before their high-flying UniBond Division One North rivals had opened the scoring.
But Peter Coyne's side roared back after the break and were level within four minutes when Steve Howson smashed home the rebound after goalkeeper Sam Ashton could only parry Tony Whealing's free-kick.
Boro, rooted to the bottom of the table, took the lead on 59 minutes when Michael Oates tapped home Whealing's cross from the left.
And victory was sealed nine minutes later when Oates outstripped his marker to add a third and set up a final showdown with Blue Square North outfit Hyde United at Oldham Athletic's Boundary Park ground.
10:32pm
Tuesday 18th March 2008
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Give your old football kit for charity at match
By Staff Reporter
FOOTBALL fans are being asked to do their bit for charity on Saturday by clearing out their cupboards and donating old kits to charity.
Staff and volunteers at Bury-based football club FC United of Manchester will be collecting football shirts, shorts and socks at Gigg Lane between 1pm and 3pm before the reds play Newcastle Blue Star.
All kits collected will be sent to children and adults from some of the poorest parts of the world.
Team manager Karl Marginson and first-team goalkeeper Sam Ashton, who used to play for Bolton Wanderers, have got behind the campaign, as has FC's general manager Andy Walsh.
Mr Walsh said: "In 2006, our supporters donated more than 300 shirts to KitAid and we want to do even better this time around.
"We are appealing to our supporters to clear out their cupboards and donate any clean unwanted football kit, including shirts, shorts and socks to the appeal."
11:34am
Friday 14th March 2008
FOOTBALL fans are being asked to do their bit for charity on Saturday by clearing out their cupboards and donating old kits to charity.
Staff and volunteers at Bury-based football club FC United of Manchester will be collecting football shirts, shorts and socks at Gigg Lane between 1pm and 3pm before the reds play Newcastle Blue Star.
All kits collected will be sent to children and adults from some of the poorest parts of the world.
Team manager Karl Marginson and first-team goalkeeper Sam Ashton, who used to play for Bolton Wanderers, have got behind the campaign, as has FC's general manager Andy Walsh.
Mr Walsh said: "In 2006, our supporters donated more than 300 shirts to KitAid and we want to do even better this time around.
"We are appealing to our supporters to clear out their cupboards and donate any clean unwanted football kit, including shirts, shorts and socks to the appeal."
11:34am
Friday 14th March 2008
Monday, March 10, 2008
Supporters reassured over roadworks
Source: This is Lancashire
By Dale Haslam
FOOTBALL fans have been assured that roadworks taking place on Gigg Lane next week will not affect the two teams that play there.
Though Bury Council has taken out an order giving it permission to potentially close the road for a month from Monday (March 17), highways officers only anticipate work to last four days, during which neither Bury FC or FC United of Manchester are due to play there.
Providing there are no delays, the road should reopen before FC United's fixture against Radcliffe Borough on March 22.
By Dale Haslam
FOOTBALL fans have been assured that roadworks taking place on Gigg Lane next week will not affect the two teams that play there.
Though Bury Council has taken out an order giving it permission to potentially close the road for a month from Monday (March 17), highways officers only anticipate work to last four days, during which neither Bury FC or FC United of Manchester are due to play there.
Providing there are no delays, the road should reopen before FC United's fixture against Radcliffe Borough on March 22.
FC to meet Radcliffe in cup final
By Liam Chronnell
FC UNITED took advantage of their President's Cup reprise to set up a final showdown with neighbours Radcliffe Borough.
The breakaway club thought they had blown their chances in the competition when they were hammered 5-1 by Nantwich Town in the quarter-finals.
But the Rebels were reinstated after it was discovered the Cheshire club had played an ineligible player - and they grabbed their second chance with both hands with a 3-1 victory at Goole.
A Chris Baguley double, including a spectacular 40-yard lob, and Rory Patterson's 32nd goal of the season was enough to put the Reds through.
FC, meanwhile, escaped with a fine after being found guilty of failing to fulfil a fixture against Woodley Sports on February 6 at a UniBond League hearing on Thursday night.
United, who feared they were facing a points deduction, were fined £500 plus £65 costs of the hearing.
Craig Dawson's 26th-minute strike booked Borough's place in the final with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ossett Albion.
Michael Oates spurned a couple of fine chances to make the game safe, but Peter Coyne's side managed to hold on.
5:38am
10/03/2008
FC UNITED took advantage of their President's Cup reprise to set up a final showdown with neighbours Radcliffe Borough.
The breakaway club thought they had blown their chances in the competition when they were hammered 5-1 by Nantwich Town in the quarter-finals.
But the Rebels were reinstated after it was discovered the Cheshire club had played an ineligible player - and they grabbed their second chance with both hands with a 3-1 victory at Goole.
A Chris Baguley double, including a spectacular 40-yard lob, and Rory Patterson's 32nd goal of the season was enough to put the Reds through.
FC, meanwhile, escaped with a fine after being found guilty of failing to fulfil a fixture against Woodley Sports on February 6 at a UniBond League hearing on Thursday night.
United, who feared they were facing a points deduction, were fined £500 plus £65 costs of the hearing.
Craig Dawson's 26th-minute strike booked Borough's place in the final with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ossett Albion.
Michael Oates spurned a couple of fine chances to make the game safe, but Peter Coyne's side managed to hold on.
5:38am
10/03/2008
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Double delight for Patterson
By Liam Chronnell
FC United 3 Clittheroe 0
A RORY Patterson double helped FC United keep the pressure on the UniBond Division One North leaders with a comfortable victory against struggling Clitheroe.
Simon Carden had put the Rebels - nine points behind Skelmersdale United but with four games in hand - in front in the first half at Gigg Lane.
Striker Patterson struck again after the restart and the Reds' top-scorer added his 29th of the season late on to wrap up the points and move Karl Marginson's side into the play-off places.
10:37pm Wednesday 27th February 2008
FC United 3 Clittheroe 0
A RORY Patterson double helped FC United keep the pressure on the UniBond Division One North leaders with a comfortable victory against struggling Clitheroe.
Simon Carden had put the Rebels - nine points behind Skelmersdale United but with four games in hand - in front in the first half at Gigg Lane.
Striker Patterson struck again after the restart and the Reds' top-scorer added his 29th of the season late on to wrap up the points and move Karl Marginson's side into the play-off places.
10:37pm Wednesday 27th February 2008
Monday, February 18, 2008
Rebels send out title warning
By Andrew Mosley
FC United 3 Skelmersdale United 0
TWO goals from top-scorer Rory Patterson helped FC United topple league leaders Skelmersdale in an end-to-end clash at Gigg Lane.
After a three-week lay-off, the UniBond Division One North side started slowly, but gained control in the 16th minute when Patterson converted a Nicky Platt free-kick.
On-loan Bury keeper Aaron Grundy, making his debut for United, pulled off a superb one-handed save before Patterson out-paced two defenders to slot home his second on 62 minutes.
Sub Nick Robinson fired in from outside the area in injury time to wrap up the points for FC, who travel to Nantwich in the quarter-finals of the President's Cup tonight.
Radcliffe Borough's home game with Curzon Ashton was postponed because of a frozen pitch.
7:38pm
Sunday 17th February 2008
FC United 3 Skelmersdale United 0
TWO goals from top-scorer Rory Patterson helped FC United topple league leaders Skelmersdale in an end-to-end clash at Gigg Lane.
After a three-week lay-off, the UniBond Division One North side started slowly, but gained control in the 16th minute when Patterson converted a Nicky Platt free-kick.
On-loan Bury keeper Aaron Grundy, making his debut for United, pulled off a superb one-handed save before Patterson out-paced two defenders to slot home his second on 62 minutes.
Sub Nick Robinson fired in from outside the area in injury time to wrap up the points for FC, who travel to Nantwich in the quarter-finals of the President's Cup tonight.
Radcliffe Borough's home game with Curzon Ashton was postponed because of a frozen pitch.
7:38pm
Sunday 17th February 2008
Thursday, January 10, 2008
FC United are back on the glory trail
By Liam Chronnell
FC United v Chorley FC United return from their European exploits to take on Chorley as they chase a third successive title.
The Rebels took advantage of a free weekend in their UniBond League calendar to take part in an indoor five-a-side tournament in Riesa in east Germany, which also included the likes of Bundesliga side Energie Cottbus.
But Karl Marginson's side are back on these shores now - and fully focused on mounting a serious challenge for Division One North glory.
After four defeats in five games, the Gigg Lane tenants looked to have blown their chances of more silverware this season.
But back-to-back victories, including a 2-0 win at leaders Curzon Ashton, has seen FC cut the lead on the Tameside club to just six points.
"It's all about getting on a bit of a roll now," said Marginson, ahead of Saturday's home clash with the second-bottom side.
But United, whose Manchester FA Premier Cup quarter-final clash against Flixton at Radcliffe Borough's Stainton Park was a victim of the weather last night, will have to do it without Aaron Burns.
The Reds pulled off the major coup when they landed the former Manchester United reserves' top scorer in October after he was released by Cardiff City.
The striker, who scored eight goals in 14 appearances, was unable to play for a club at a higher level than the UniBond League until the transfer window opened in January.
That time has now come and Burns has departed, along with Reds' team-mate Cayne Hanley, for Blue Square Premier's Northwich Victoria.
But Marginson has boosted his squad with the signing of the versatile forward Nick Robinson from Woodley Sports.
5:05pm
Wednesday 9th January 2008
FC United v Chorley FC United return from their European exploits to take on Chorley as they chase a third successive title.
The Rebels took advantage of a free weekend in their UniBond League calendar to take part in an indoor five-a-side tournament in Riesa in east Germany, which also included the likes of Bundesliga side Energie Cottbus.
But Karl Marginson's side are back on these shores now - and fully focused on mounting a serious challenge for Division One North glory.
After four defeats in five games, the Gigg Lane tenants looked to have blown their chances of more silverware this season.
But back-to-back victories, including a 2-0 win at leaders Curzon Ashton, has seen FC cut the lead on the Tameside club to just six points.
"It's all about getting on a bit of a roll now," said Marginson, ahead of Saturday's home clash with the second-bottom side.
But United, whose Manchester FA Premier Cup quarter-final clash against Flixton at Radcliffe Borough's Stainton Park was a victim of the weather last night, will have to do it without Aaron Burns.
The Reds pulled off the major coup when they landed the former Manchester United reserves' top scorer in October after he was released by Cardiff City.
The striker, who scored eight goals in 14 appearances, was unable to play for a club at a higher level than the UniBond League until the transfer window opened in January.
That time has now come and Burns has departed, along with Reds' team-mate Cayne Hanley, for Blue Square Premier's Northwich Victoria.
But Marginson has boosted his squad with the signing of the versatile forward Nick Robinson from Woodley Sports.
5:05pm
Wednesday 9th January 2008
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Boro share spoils with Reds
Source: This is Lancashire
By Marc Higginson
BOROUGH remain rooted to the bottom of the Unibond table, without a win to their name.
However, three of their seven draws have now come against sides in the top five and, once again, they were the better side but failed to make their dominance count.
They looked odds-on for that first win when Craig Dawson put his side ahead, but FC United refused to throw in the towel and got their reward when Chris Baguley curled home a 25-yard free-kick five minutes from time.
Steve Howson, Gary Sampson and Michael Murray had all tested Reds keeper Sam Ashton before central defender Dawson rose to head home Sampson's corner after 41 minutes.
Borough couldn't find a second goal and paid the price when, with five minutes left on the clock, United's Baguley was brought down on the edge of the area.
The inspirational midfielder dusted himself down and curled a super free-kick around the wall and into the bottom corner.
In the end it took an assistant referee's flag to save a point for Borough. James Holden tapped the ball in after Lake parried a Baguley shot, only for the goal to be disallowed.
By Marc Higginson
BOROUGH remain rooted to the bottom of the Unibond table, without a win to their name.
However, three of their seven draws have now come against sides in the top five and, once again, they were the better side but failed to make their dominance count.
They looked odds-on for that first win when Craig Dawson put his side ahead, but FC United refused to throw in the towel and got their reward when Chris Baguley curled home a 25-yard free-kick five minutes from time.
Steve Howson, Gary Sampson and Michael Murray had all tested Reds keeper Sam Ashton before central defender Dawson rose to head home Sampson's corner after 41 minutes.
Borough couldn't find a second goal and paid the price when, with five minutes left on the clock, United's Baguley was brought down on the edge of the area.
The inspirational midfielder dusted himself down and curled a super free-kick around the wall and into the bottom corner.
In the end it took an assistant referee's flag to save a point for Borough. James Holden tapped the ball in after Lake parried a Baguley shot, only for the goal to be disallowed.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Rebels boss hails boy Bleau
Source: This is Lancashire
By Liam Chronnell
FC UNITED boss Karl Marginson has tipped new boy Micah Bleau for a bright future.
The former Halifax Town centre-back will make his debut for the breakaway club at UniBond Division One North play-off rivals Ossett Albion tomorrow.
"He looks a good prospect," said Marginson, of the 19-year-old defender. "He is strong, athletic and enthusiastic - and deserves his chance."
But the Rebels have been hit by a triple blow with top-scorer Rory Patterson, Jerome Wright and Adam Turner missing through suspension.
By Liam Chronnell
FC UNITED boss Karl Marginson has tipped new boy Micah Bleau for a bright future.
The former Halifax Town centre-back will make his debut for the breakaway club at UniBond Division One North play-off rivals Ossett Albion tomorrow.
"He looks a good prospect," said Marginson, of the 19-year-old defender. "He is strong, athletic and enthusiastic - and deserves his chance."
But the Rebels have been hit by a triple blow with top-scorer Rory Patterson, Jerome Wright and Adam Turner missing through suspension.
Friday, December 07, 2007
Patterson blow for Rebels boss
By Liam Chronnell
FC United v Chorley
UniBond League Division One North
KARL Marginson has been hit with more selection problems ahead of FC United's home clash with struggling Chorley.
Already without long-term absentees Stuart Rudd, Josh Howard and captain Dave Chadwick through injury, the Rebels boss must now cope with the loss of top-scorer Rory Patterson to suspension.
The Reds' 18-goal hitman has picked up a two match ban after collecting his 10th yellow card of the season.
And Marginson admits it could not have come at a worse time as the title-chasing Gigg Lane outfit prepare for a busy festive period.
"It's a big blow," said the United boss. "Any team would miss a player of Rory's ability but with the injuries we have at the moment - it's a nightmare."
Striker Peter Thomson is set to be handed his first league start since joining from Barrow - and Marginson has backed him to fill Patterson's prolific boots.
He added: "Thomo's a big lad and more of a target man in the Stuart Rudd mould. He's now got a chance to impress and give me a selection headache when Rory is available again."
The FC manager was also delighted to see his team end the worst run in the breakaway club's history.
Jerome Wright grabbed an 87th-minute winner to secure the Reds' first victory in four games after they defeated Rossendale 2-1 at Stainton Park.
In a game switched to Radcliffe Borough's ground due to Bury's FA Cup tie at Gigg Lane, the winger pounced on a goalkeeping error to seal the points.
Patterson's opened the scoring on 11 minutes, before the fiery Irishman was involved in the match's main talking point seven minutes after the break when, following his substitution, he became involved in a touchline altercation with Rossendale manager Derek Egan, who was subsequently sent off. The pair clashed again on the way to the dressing room.
Rossendale hit back through Tom Williams on 76 minutes but, with just three minutes remaining, Wright punished some woeful defending to grab a vital win, despite eight minutes of injury time.
l All under-18s will be able to attend Saturday's home clash with Chorley for free.
7:20am
Thursday 6th December 2007
FC United v Chorley
UniBond League Division One North
KARL Marginson has been hit with more selection problems ahead of FC United's home clash with struggling Chorley.
Already without long-term absentees Stuart Rudd, Josh Howard and captain Dave Chadwick through injury, the Rebels boss must now cope with the loss of top-scorer Rory Patterson to suspension.
The Reds' 18-goal hitman has picked up a two match ban after collecting his 10th yellow card of the season.
And Marginson admits it could not have come at a worse time as the title-chasing Gigg Lane outfit prepare for a busy festive period.
"It's a big blow," said the United boss. "Any team would miss a player of Rory's ability but with the injuries we have at the moment - it's a nightmare."
Striker Peter Thomson is set to be handed his first league start since joining from Barrow - and Marginson has backed him to fill Patterson's prolific boots.
He added: "Thomo's a big lad and more of a target man in the Stuart Rudd mould. He's now got a chance to impress and give me a selection headache when Rory is available again."
The FC manager was also delighted to see his team end the worst run in the breakaway club's history.
Jerome Wright grabbed an 87th-minute winner to secure the Reds' first victory in four games after they defeated Rossendale 2-1 at Stainton Park.
In a game switched to Radcliffe Borough's ground due to Bury's FA Cup tie at Gigg Lane, the winger pounced on a goalkeeping error to seal the points.
Patterson's opened the scoring on 11 minutes, before the fiery Irishman was involved in the match's main talking point seven minutes after the break when, following his substitution, he became involved in a touchline altercation with Rossendale manager Derek Egan, who was subsequently sent off. The pair clashed again on the way to the dressing room.
Rossendale hit back through Tom Williams on 76 minutes but, with just three minutes remaining, Wright punished some woeful defending to grab a vital win, despite eight minutes of injury time.
l All under-18s will be able to attend Saturday's home clash with Chorley for free.
7:20am
Thursday 6th December 2007
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
FC clash all-ticket sell-out
Source: This is Lancashire
By Marc Higginson
RADCLIFFE Boro's Boxing Day local derby clash against high flying FC United at Stainton is expected to be an all-ticket sellout. On the instruction of the police, capacity has been set at 2,500 - and there will be no segregation.
It will be the first meeting between the sides in a competitive game.
By Marc Higginson
RADCLIFFE Boro's Boxing Day local derby clash against high flying FC United at Stainton is expected to be an all-ticket sellout. On the instruction of the police, capacity has been set at 2,500 - and there will be no segregation.
It will be the first meeting between the sides in a competitive game.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Priestley joins FC United
By John Newman
Veteran goalkeeper Phil Priestley has left Chorley to take up the post of goalkeeping coach at his former club FC United of Manchester.
Priestley, 31, who missed most of last season with a severe knee problem, was in good form this year until he was hurt in the first FA Cup match against Clitheroe.
A back injury hampered his performance in the 5-3 away defeat by Newcastle Blue Star and manager Gerry Luczka signed Pete Collinge from Clitheroe. Collinge has done well in Priestley's absence, keeping three successive clean sheets.
Priestley said the post with FC United was too good to turn down and wished manager Gerry Luczka and the team all the best.
Shaun Teale signed Priestley from Radcliffe Borough in October 2005 after he had been with FC United and a number of top non-league clubs.
He made a number of Football League appearances for Rochdale in 1998-99.
Phil, known to Chorley fans as Elvis, was the supporters' Player of the Year after only seven months with the club.
Luczka said: "Phil has been great for us and I wish him well. Now that he has recovered from injury he wants to get back in action.
"It was his decision to leave the club. After last season's nightmare experience when we had 15 stand-ins because of Phil's long-term injury, I had to make provision when he was hurt again, and young Pete has done really well.
"Unfortunately, we have room for only one keeper."
9:07am Wednesday 17th October 2007
Veteran goalkeeper Phil Priestley has left Chorley to take up the post of goalkeeping coach at his former club FC United of Manchester.
Priestley, 31, who missed most of last season with a severe knee problem, was in good form this year until he was hurt in the first FA Cup match against Clitheroe.
A back injury hampered his performance in the 5-3 away defeat by Newcastle Blue Star and manager Gerry Luczka signed Pete Collinge from Clitheroe. Collinge has done well in Priestley's absence, keeping three successive clean sheets.
Priestley said the post with FC United was too good to turn down and wished manager Gerry Luczka and the team all the best.
Shaun Teale signed Priestley from Radcliffe Borough in October 2005 after he had been with FC United and a number of top non-league clubs.
He made a number of Football League appearances for Rochdale in 1998-99.
Phil, known to Chorley fans as Elvis, was the supporters' Player of the Year after only seven months with the club.
Luczka said: "Phil has been great for us and I wish him well. Now that he has recovered from injury he wants to get back in action.
"It was his decision to leave the club. After last season's nightmare experience when we had 15 stand-ins because of Phil's long-term injury, I had to make provision when he was hurt again, and young Pete has done really well.
"Unfortunately, we have room for only one keeper."
9:07am Wednesday 17th October 2007
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Rebels' perfect riposte
Source: This is Lancashire
By Liam Chronnell
FC United provided the perfect response to last week's disappointment as they cruised to a 3-0 victory at Chorley.
Karl Marginson described the Rebels' 1-1 draw with Woodley Sports as the worst performance in the breakaway club's history.
But the Rebels hit back in style as top-scorer Rory Patterson grabbed a double and strike partner Stuart Rudd was also on target at Victory Park.
The win moves the Gigg Lane club up to seventh in the Division One North table.
By Liam Chronnell
FC United provided the perfect response to last week's disappointment as they cruised to a 3-0 victory at Chorley.
Karl Marginson described the Rebels' 1-1 draw with Woodley Sports as the worst performance in the breakaway club's history.
But the Rebels hit back in style as top-scorer Rory Patterson grabbed a double and strike partner Stuart Rudd was also on target at Victory Park.
The win moves the Gigg Lane club up to seventh in the Division One North table.
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