Source: Hemsworth and Southelmsall Express
FRICKLEY Athletic boss Peter Rinkcavage will be hoping his Blues side can take inspiration from what’s set to be a bumper crowd at the Tech5 Stadium for the visit of FC United of Manchester on Saturday (kick-off 3pm).
The Blues are expecting one of, if not the, biggest crowds of the season in South Elmsall as the Manchester club, backed by their traditionally large following, visit.
Rinkcavage insisted his players “shouldn’t be involved in football” if they couldn’t get up for a game in front of a big crowd at FC Halifax Town last weekend - a game which fell victim of a frozen pitch.
And he’ll be hoping a big gate at Westfield Lane will help steer the Blues to a much-needed three points rather than hinder them.
Frickley sit third-from-bottom in the Evo-Stik Premier Division and will be keen to get points on the board sooner rather than later to avoid an end-of-season relegation battle.
Rinkcavage’s reign started well but the Blues have slumped to four defeats from five games since the turn of the year.
The latest setback came in the League Cup third round on Tuesday night when Division 1 North side Durham City dumped them out of the competition thanks to a 2-0 victory.
Amar Purewal and David Dowson netted the second-half goals to put Durham into the next round to earn a home tie against Bradford Park Avenue.
One plus point to come from the match was the long-awaited return from a broken leg for winger Andy Catton, who made his first start under Rinkcavage.
The Blues’ priority is with the league though, and there’s no better time to kick-start a surge up the table than three points against one of the league’s bigger sides.
Karl Marginson’s men were tipped for promotion this season but impressive runs in cup competitions, in particular the FA Cup where they reached the second round, have made for indifferent form in the Evo-Stik Premier Division.
Blues fans can expect to see a winner on Saturday, with United the only side to have not drawn a game this season.
They sit mid-table thanks to ten wins and 11 defeats from 21 games so far this season.
But with their priority back on moving up the league, United will be a tough nut to crack for Rinckavage and his men this weekend.
The clash will be the first of two home matches for the Blues in four days, with Whitby Town the opposition at Westfield Lane on Tuesday night (kick-off 7.45pm).
Friday, January 28, 2011
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Gray thunderbolt seals Kendal victory against FC United
Source: Westmorland Gazette
10:49pm Tuesday 25th January 2011
* By Patrick O'Kane » Senior News/Sport Reporter
Evo-Stik Premier League.
Kendal Town 3 FC United of Manchester 2.
A DOUBLE from central defender Shaun Gray sealed a 3-2 victory for Kendal Town as they made it four wins from five against FC United of Manchester tonight, Tuesday.
In a classic non-league encounter two of the league's form sides met and it was a great advert for the Evo-Stik Premier League.
Town took the lead on 39 minutes after Jake Cottrell lunged in on Chris Ward.
After a stoppage in play and a booking for Cottrell, Walmsley fired a ball deep into the box from the right touchline and Gray bagged his first Town goal with a well directed header to the bottom right corner.
But it was 1-1 before the break, despite Town dominating play.
Simon Carden collected 12 yards out and he struck low to the bottom corner under Newnes, who was struggling with injury.
Boss Lee Ashcroft replaced Newnes and the injured Mark Jackson (hamstring) with Tom Newton and Jack Smith at half-time, and Smith gave Town a lift as they looked to regain the lead.
But the sucker punch was dealt just four minutes into the second half, when FC United took a 2-1 lead.
Jerome Wright beat Newton to the ball out to the left of the Kendal area and knocked it goal bound.
Despite the efforts of George Melling getting back the ball crossed the line before he could kick it clear.
Town showed their grit and determination to get back into the game and levelled just two minutes later.
And it was another Walmsley specialty, this time from the left win which set up the goal and Carl Osman was on hand to head home beyond keeper Sam Ashton.
Just four minutes later Town had used all their subs when Osman pulled up with a hamstring injury and was replaced by Mat Ashcroft.
Town were rejuvenated after their equaliser and an end to end match had the 508 fans cheering throughout and when Gary Stopforth was fouled on the edge of the box, you would have expected Walmsley to have a strike.
But new boy Gray placed the ball for the free kick and blazed an unstoppable shot into the top corner of Ashton's goal for 3-2 on the 70 minute mark.
As Town pushed for a fourth FC United fancied a counter attack goal with Wright and Mike Norton both going close after escaping their markers.
And in the dying seconds Nicky Platt should have levelled from two yards out but the ball went through him from the corner and Melling blasted it upfield.
A draw would have been a fair result on the night but boss Ashcroft will be delighted with his side as they grow in confidence.
Town climb to seventh in the league and will travel to fifth-placed Marine on Saturday where they will aim to make it five wins from six.
HOW THEY RATED: David Newnes 7 (rep Tom Newton 45mins 7), Keiran Walmsley 8, Adam Sumner 7, George Melling 7, Shaun Gray 8, Gary Stopforth 7, Carl Osman 7 (rep Mat Ashcroft 61mins), Mark Jackson 7 (rep Jack Smith 45mins 7), Alex Taylor 7, Ashley Dunn 8, Chris Ward 8.
Subs: Dave Foster, Paul Osbourne Star Man: Shaun Gray - superb at the back and bagged a brilliant brace to give Town victory Att: 508
10:49pm Tuesday 25th January 2011
* By Patrick O'Kane » Senior News/Sport Reporter
Evo-Stik Premier League.
Kendal Town 3 FC United of Manchester 2.
A DOUBLE from central defender Shaun Gray sealed a 3-2 victory for Kendal Town as they made it four wins from five against FC United of Manchester tonight, Tuesday.
In a classic non-league encounter two of the league's form sides met and it was a great advert for the Evo-Stik Premier League.
Town took the lead on 39 minutes after Jake Cottrell lunged in on Chris Ward.
After a stoppage in play and a booking for Cottrell, Walmsley fired a ball deep into the box from the right touchline and Gray bagged his first Town goal with a well directed header to the bottom right corner.
But it was 1-1 before the break, despite Town dominating play.
Simon Carden collected 12 yards out and he struck low to the bottom corner under Newnes, who was struggling with injury.
Boss Lee Ashcroft replaced Newnes and the injured Mark Jackson (hamstring) with Tom Newton and Jack Smith at half-time, and Smith gave Town a lift as they looked to regain the lead.
But the sucker punch was dealt just four minutes into the second half, when FC United took a 2-1 lead.
Jerome Wright beat Newton to the ball out to the left of the Kendal area and knocked it goal bound.
Despite the efforts of George Melling getting back the ball crossed the line before he could kick it clear.
Town showed their grit and determination to get back into the game and levelled just two minutes later.
And it was another Walmsley specialty, this time from the left win which set up the goal and Carl Osman was on hand to head home beyond keeper Sam Ashton.
Just four minutes later Town had used all their subs when Osman pulled up with a hamstring injury and was replaced by Mat Ashcroft.
Town were rejuvenated after their equaliser and an end to end match had the 508 fans cheering throughout and when Gary Stopforth was fouled on the edge of the box, you would have expected Walmsley to have a strike.
But new boy Gray placed the ball for the free kick and blazed an unstoppable shot into the top corner of Ashton's goal for 3-2 on the 70 minute mark.
As Town pushed for a fourth FC United fancied a counter attack goal with Wright and Mike Norton both going close after escaping their markers.
And in the dying seconds Nicky Platt should have levelled from two yards out but the ball went through him from the corner and Melling blasted it upfield.
A draw would have been a fair result on the night but boss Ashcroft will be delighted with his side as they grow in confidence.
Town climb to seventh in the league and will travel to fifth-placed Marine on Saturday where they will aim to make it five wins from six.
HOW THEY RATED: David Newnes 7 (rep Tom Newton 45mins 7), Keiran Walmsley 8, Adam Sumner 7, George Melling 7, Shaun Gray 8, Gary Stopforth 7, Carl Osman 7 (rep Mat Ashcroft 61mins), Mark Jackson 7 (rep Jack Smith 45mins 7), Alex Taylor 7, Ashley Dunn 8, Chris Ward 8.
Subs: Dave Foster, Paul Osbourne Star Man: Shaun Gray - superb at the back and bagged a brilliant brace to give Town victory Att: 508
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Ashcroft names same XI for FC United match
Source: Westmorland Gazette
7:17pm Tuesday 25th January 2011
By Patrick O'Kane » Senior News/Sport Reporter
KENDAL Town boss Lee Ashcroft has named the same XI that beat Worksop Town on Saturday for tonight's Evo-Stik Premier League match against FC United of Manchester.
Town had a strong performance and the only squad change sees Tom Newton replace Shaun Gardner on the bench with David Newnes carrying a knock.
Starting XI: David Newnes, Keiran Walmsley, George Melling, Shaun Gray, Adam Sumner, Gary Stopforth, Chris Ward, Ashley Dunn, Carl Osman, Mark Jackson, Alex Taylor.
Subs: Tom Newton, Dave Foster, Paul Osbourne, Mat Ashcroft, Jack Smith
7:17pm Tuesday 25th January 2011
By Patrick O'Kane » Senior News/Sport Reporter
KENDAL Town boss Lee Ashcroft has named the same XI that beat Worksop Town on Saturday for tonight's Evo-Stik Premier League match against FC United of Manchester.
Town had a strong performance and the only squad change sees Tom Newton replace Shaun Gardner on the bench with David Newnes carrying a knock.
Starting XI: David Newnes, Keiran Walmsley, George Melling, Shaun Gray, Adam Sumner, Gary Stopforth, Chris Ward, Ashley Dunn, Carl Osman, Mark Jackson, Alex Taylor.
Subs: Tom Newton, Dave Foster, Paul Osbourne, Mat Ashcroft, Jack Smith
Monday, January 24, 2011
Heavy reverse for Town on travels at FC United
Source: Hucknall Today
LOOSE defending and slack finishing combined to cost Hucknall Town dear as they slumped to a heavy defeat at FC United of Manchester on Saturday (January 22).
The Yellows held their own for chunks of the match in front of a bumper crowd of 1,883 at Coca-Cola League Two side Bury’s Gigg Lane ground and created their fair share of chances.
But The Red Rebels were more clinical and little bit tighter in defence and recorded a 4-1 win to bolster their own play-off aspirations in the Evo-Stik League, Premier Division, while simultaneously denting Town’s hopes.
Yellows boss Tommy Brookbanks stuck with the same 11 that had beaten Worksop Town 2-0 in the Evo-Stik League Cup four days earlier.
But his young, inexperienced defence, led by stand-in captain Martin Ball, was caught in the headlights early on and conceded after just five minutes.
FC United frontman Jerome Wright got in behind the Town defence and his cross was tapped in by strike partner Mike Norton.
To their credit, Town’s backline didn’t fold and The Yellows set about getting back into the game.
Ball headed over a cross from winger Callum Lloyd and centre-back Joe Pheasant levelled the score on 25 minutes when he nodded home Dean Gent’s corner.
But the good work was undone 12 minutes later when left-back Sam Clare lost an aerial challenge and, while he lay in a crumpled heap on the floor, the ball dropped to Wright, who fired past ‘keeper Ross Whalin.
Town started the second half brightly and thought they had equalised again when Pheasant flicked home Lloyd’s centre. But the defender was flagged offside.
On the hour mark, the sizeable home crowd upped the decibel level and their players subsequently increased the tempo on the field as three efforts were thwarted in quick succession.
Up the other end, substitute Anthony Griffith Junior flashed a free-kick just wide.
Then, FC United put the game beyond doubt with two goals in the final 12 minutes.
First, former Oldham Athletic striker Matty Wolfenden lost Dion Chambers in the box and calmly slotted past Whalin.
The final nail was drilled into the Town coffin on 88 as Jake Cottrell’s 25-yard, left-footed curler beat an unsighted Whalin.
TOWN LINE-UP (4-4-2) - Whalin/ Boafo, Ball, Pheasant, Clare/ Smith, Gent, Chambers, Lloyd/ Nightingale, Gill. SUBS: Chaplin (for Nightingale 45), Brindley (for Clare 63), Griffith Junior (for Gill 70), Holmes (not used), Burge (not used).
CROWD: 1,883.
LOOSE defending and slack finishing combined to cost Hucknall Town dear as they slumped to a heavy defeat at FC United of Manchester on Saturday (January 22).
The Yellows held their own for chunks of the match in front of a bumper crowd of 1,883 at Coca-Cola League Two side Bury’s Gigg Lane ground and created their fair share of chances.
But The Red Rebels were more clinical and little bit tighter in defence and recorded a 4-1 win to bolster their own play-off aspirations in the Evo-Stik League, Premier Division, while simultaneously denting Town’s hopes.
Yellows boss Tommy Brookbanks stuck with the same 11 that had beaten Worksop Town 2-0 in the Evo-Stik League Cup four days earlier.
But his young, inexperienced defence, led by stand-in captain Martin Ball, was caught in the headlights early on and conceded after just five minutes.
FC United frontman Jerome Wright got in behind the Town defence and his cross was tapped in by strike partner Mike Norton.
To their credit, Town’s backline didn’t fold and The Yellows set about getting back into the game.
Ball headed over a cross from winger Callum Lloyd and centre-back Joe Pheasant levelled the score on 25 minutes when he nodded home Dean Gent’s corner.
But the good work was undone 12 minutes later when left-back Sam Clare lost an aerial challenge and, while he lay in a crumpled heap on the floor, the ball dropped to Wright, who fired past ‘keeper Ross Whalin.
Town started the second half brightly and thought they had equalised again when Pheasant flicked home Lloyd’s centre. But the defender was flagged offside.
On the hour mark, the sizeable home crowd upped the decibel level and their players subsequently increased the tempo on the field as three efforts were thwarted in quick succession.
Up the other end, substitute Anthony Griffith Junior flashed a free-kick just wide.
Then, FC United put the game beyond doubt with two goals in the final 12 minutes.
First, former Oldham Athletic striker Matty Wolfenden lost Dion Chambers in the box and calmly slotted past Whalin.
The final nail was drilled into the Town coffin on 88 as Jake Cottrell’s 25-yard, left-footed curler beat an unsighted Whalin.
TOWN LINE-UP (4-4-2) - Whalin/ Boafo, Ball, Pheasant, Clare/ Smith, Gent, Chambers, Lloyd/ Nightingale, Gill. SUBS: Chaplin (for Nightingale 45), Brindley (for Clare 63), Griffith Junior (for Gill 70), Holmes (not used), Burge (not used).
CROWD: 1,883.
Akuneto wants to help our Eaglets soar
Source: NEXT (Nigeria)
By Ifeanyi Ibeh
January 23, 2011 01:43AM
Current coach of the Nigerian under-17 team, Monday Odigie had better watch out as Chukwuma Akuneto has his eyes on the Golden Eaglets coaching job.
Akuneto, a former Nigerian junior international with over seven years experience in coaching, most of it in England, believes he is in a better position to handle the Golden Eaglets especially in the aftermath of the team’s failure to qualify for the African U-17 Championship, which was concluded yesterday in Rwanda.
It was the second time in a row that the Golden Eaglets would be missing at the tournament which also serves as the qualifying tournament for the FIFA U-17 World Cup coming up in June in Mexico.
In Nigeria’s absence, Congo, who had eliminated the Golden Eaglets during the qualifiers, along with Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire and Rwanda secured the continent’s four World Cup slots ahead of the likes of Senegal, Mali, Egypt and former African champions Gambia who were most pundits pre-tournament favourites to qualify for the World Cup. Odigie, in a recent interview with NEXT, revealed that he had submitted his programmes ahead of the next round of qualifiers to the Nigeria Football Federation and only expecting their go-ahead to begin preparations in earnest for future engagements.
That go-ahead may however not materialize as there are some NFF board members who are still aggrieved by the failure of the Eaglets to make it to Rwanda, especially with the abundance of talent in the country.
As a result, Odigie may eventually go the same way as other coaches who had in times past failed to excel with the Eaglets, with the NFF left with no choice other than to pick a new handler for the team.
If that ends up being the case, Akuneto is hoping he will get to be the one to get the nod of the NFF as he believes he has the knowledge and experience to develop and churn out potential super stars for the country.
“It will be a great honour to be given the privilege of serving my country in a coaching capacity,” Akuneto informed NEXT. “I want to use my knowledge and experience to help identify, prepare and develop the young ones to restore our great country back to its true position in this age category and provide a solid base for the players to develop and represent Nigeria at the under 21, under 23 and even senior levels.”
Vast experience
The former Stationery Stores, ACB, Concord, Udoji United and Enugu Rangers defender, has since 2006 been the Head Football Coach and Sports Tutor at Manchester College and has led the college’s team to numerous titles most notably the 2008 Football Youth Conference League, the 2009 British Colleges Elite Cup, the 2009 British Colleges Futsal Cup, as well as the 2010 Greater Manchester County Schools Cup.
The team currently tops the Youth Conference League standings after 10 games.
Besides his work with Manchester College, Akuneto, who had previously coached in India, has since 2009 combined his work with the renowned institution along with the job of Youth Coach at lower league side FC United whose youth team are still unbeaten in the North West Youth Alliance League after 12 games.
In his spare time he scouts for Premier League side Blackburn Rovers and is currently studying for his UEFA A Coaching Licence, and it is all these experience that he will be bringing into the Nigerian cadets team set-up.
Much travelled
“I have worked in Nigeria, India, Cameroon, Vietnam, Maldives and England so my successful experience and expertise at coaching young people, improving them and then turning them into better players technically, tactically, mentally and physically is what I’ll be bringing into the team,” Akuneto said.
“The numerous skills and knowledge I have acquired by being educated to a high level here in Europe and being around the game on a daily basis in a professional capacity, and the invaluable experience I have acquired by having been involved with the game in three continents also stands me in good stead for the job,” he said.
But if he does get the nod of the NFF to tinker the Eaglets, what are his short and long term plans for the side?
“On the short term, my ambition is to lay the foundations of a solid team through a carefully planned youth development programme with inputs from people in Nigeria who also understand the process involved,” he continued.
He says his long term plan would be to turn the Nigerian U-17 team into a team that brings joy to millions of Nigerians through the way it plays and gets good results we produce, as well as the long term development of the players, a greater percentage of who will end up playing important roles for the Eagles in years to come.
To achieve he says he would have to, “liaise with the NFF and other coaches in Nigeria, the various State FA’s, organisers of age group tournaments, local football clubs and the Press who can help to make sure that we do select players who are truly within the specified age group.”
Friday, January 21, 2011
FC United trip should hold no fears for Hucknall
Source: This is Nottingham
HUCKNALL Town should relish rather than fear their trip to FC United of Manchester, coach Jamie Brough insisted today.
The Red Rebels reached the FA Cup second round this season where they took League One Brighton to a replay after knocking out League Two Rochdale.
Karl Marginson's men have been less impressive in the league, having won nine and lost ten of their 19 games.
But they can always bank on a healthy following of fans at their adopted Gigg Lane home, with tomorrow sure to be no different.
Brough expects FC to be a tough proposition now they no longer have their cup distraction, but believes Hucknall will have learned from playing in front of a big crowd against FC Halifax earlier in the campaign.
"It's going to be similar to the Halifax game, where they will have big backing, there will be good facilities and a nice big pitch," said Brough. "But I think everyone who is involved in football aspires to play in front of decent crowds and wants to step up to the next level – if you don't then you shouldn't be involved.
"This gives us a taste of what that would be like and I would hope we can rise to the occasion.
"I love playing at Watnall Road in front of our own fans, but it is nice when you go away to play in games like this.
"FC United did very well in the cup and it will have made them a small fortune.
"But it is a challenge for them to raise their game playing Hucknall Town after Brighton and Rochdale.
"They have probably under-achieved in the league, which is what can happen, but I'm sure their manager will be given time after their cup exploits."
Hucknall were beaten 2-0 at home by Northwich Victoria at the weekend, but bounced back with a 2-0 victory over Worksop Town in the third round of the League Challenge Cup on Tuesday night.
Brough says the contrasting results show the need for Hucknall to maintain a strong work ethic.
He added: "The two goals we conceded against Northwich were because we switched off.
"Fair play to Northwich because they worked harder than us over the 90 minutes and deserved their win.
"But we played some of the best possession football we have played in a long time against a good Worksop side – that was made possible because we worked exceptionally hard.
"Just like in life, those who work harder tend to get further."
Hucknall were landed with a £5,000 bill for their broken floodlights, whose failure caused the abandonment of their home clash with Buxton.
The system is up and running again now, but the club still need to pay off the amount after taking out a loan.
Abound £700 was raised with a bucket collection against Northwich, but the club are seeking further donations.
"I don't know the ins and outs of what was wrong, I think it was something to do with the cabling," said Brough.
"But we have got 28 days to repay what we owe, so any contributions would be gratefully received."
The club have added former Ilkeston central midfielder Josh Burge, 21, to their ranks following his release by Boston United.
But the player, most recently at Rainworth, may have to wait for his opportunity, with Brough saying: "He would have started against Worksop in midweek but was unavailable.
"With the other lads doing well, Josh may not get straight in the side, but he has a good attitude and I'm sure he'll flight for his place."
Grant Brindley is expected the return from a thigh injury.
HUCKNALL Town should relish rather than fear their trip to FC United of Manchester, coach Jamie Brough insisted today.
The Red Rebels reached the FA Cup second round this season where they took League One Brighton to a replay after knocking out League Two Rochdale.
Karl Marginson's men have been less impressive in the league, having won nine and lost ten of their 19 games.
But they can always bank on a healthy following of fans at their adopted Gigg Lane home, with tomorrow sure to be no different.
Brough expects FC to be a tough proposition now they no longer have their cup distraction, but believes Hucknall will have learned from playing in front of a big crowd against FC Halifax earlier in the campaign.
"It's going to be similar to the Halifax game, where they will have big backing, there will be good facilities and a nice big pitch," said Brough. "But I think everyone who is involved in football aspires to play in front of decent crowds and wants to step up to the next level – if you don't then you shouldn't be involved.
"This gives us a taste of what that would be like and I would hope we can rise to the occasion.
"I love playing at Watnall Road in front of our own fans, but it is nice when you go away to play in games like this.
"FC United did very well in the cup and it will have made them a small fortune.
"But it is a challenge for them to raise their game playing Hucknall Town after Brighton and Rochdale.
"They have probably under-achieved in the league, which is what can happen, but I'm sure their manager will be given time after their cup exploits."
Hucknall were beaten 2-0 at home by Northwich Victoria at the weekend, but bounced back with a 2-0 victory over Worksop Town in the third round of the League Challenge Cup on Tuesday night.
Brough says the contrasting results show the need for Hucknall to maintain a strong work ethic.
He added: "The two goals we conceded against Northwich were because we switched off.
"Fair play to Northwich because they worked harder than us over the 90 minutes and deserved their win.
"But we played some of the best possession football we have played in a long time against a good Worksop side – that was made possible because we worked exceptionally hard.
"Just like in life, those who work harder tend to get further."
Hucknall were landed with a £5,000 bill for their broken floodlights, whose failure caused the abandonment of their home clash with Buxton.
The system is up and running again now, but the club still need to pay off the amount after taking out a loan.
Abound £700 was raised with a bucket collection against Northwich, but the club are seeking further donations.
"I don't know the ins and outs of what was wrong, I think it was something to do with the cabling," said Brough.
"But we have got 28 days to repay what we owe, so any contributions would be gratefully received."
The club have added former Ilkeston central midfielder Josh Burge, 21, to their ranks following his release by Boston United.
But the player, most recently at Rainworth, may have to wait for his opportunity, with Brough saying: "He would have started against Worksop in midweek but was unavailable.
"With the other lads doing well, Josh may not get straight in the side, but he has a good attitude and I'm sure he'll flight for his place."
Grant Brindley is expected the return from a thigh injury.
Fußball: Torhüter schießt aus 100 Metern Entfernung und trifft
Source: shortnews.de, GER
Beim Fußball-Match zwischen dem FC United of Manchester und Retford United gelang dem Torhüter der Mannschaft aus Manchester, Sam Ashton, ein kurioses Tor aus 100 Metern Entfernung.
Einen Rückpass schlug der Torhüter einfach nach vorne und der gegnerische Torhüter verschätzte sich, der Ball sprang ein Mal auf und sprang über den Torhüter hinweg ins Tor. Sam Ashton wurde daraufhin für seinen außergewöhnlichen Treffer von seinen Mannschaftskollegen bejubelt.
Es war das Führungstor in der Begegnung und das Match gewann der FC United of Manchester letztendlich deutlich mit 4:0. Ashton gab in einem Interview nach dem Match an, dass seine Mitspieler behaupten würden, dass der erzielte Treffer nur Glück gewesen sei. Es sei aber, so Ashton, Absicht gewesen.
Beim Fußball-Match zwischen dem FC United of Manchester und Retford United gelang dem Torhüter der Mannschaft aus Manchester, Sam Ashton, ein kurioses Tor aus 100 Metern Entfernung.
Einen Rückpass schlug der Torhüter einfach nach vorne und der gegnerische Torhüter verschätzte sich, der Ball sprang ein Mal auf und sprang über den Torhüter hinweg ins Tor. Sam Ashton wurde daraufhin für seinen außergewöhnlichen Treffer von seinen Mannschaftskollegen bejubelt.
Es war das Führungstor in der Begegnung und das Match gewann der FC United of Manchester letztendlich deutlich mit 4:0. Ashton gab in einem Interview nach dem Match an, dass seine Mitspieler behaupten würden, dass der erzielte Treffer nur Glück gewesen sei. Es sei aber, so Ashton, Absicht gewesen.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
FC United youngster shocked by England call-up
FC United starlet Scott Cheetham has spoken of his shock after becoming the first player to win an England call-up in the club’s history.
The 18-year-old Openshaw youngster has been selected in the 18-man England Schoolboys squad after impressing during trials at the FA’s school of excellence at Lilleshall.
The young attacking midfielder will now be in line for selection for England’s four Centenary Shield matches against Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland in March and April.
Cheetham said: "I thought I’d done well down at the trials but I was still surprised to get the call and it’s a great honour for me.
"The club’s been fantastic and really helped me with my development, in particular the under-18s manager Chuck Akuneto who has supported me and helped me improve as a player.
"I’m excited about getting the chance to pull on the England shirt but I’m not going to get carried away and want to carry on what I’m doing here at FC United and hopefully get myself into the first-team on a regular basis."
The former Wright Robinson pupil, who has made two appearances for the Rebels senior side, could be called into England action as early as January 30 when Andy Williams’ men face a warm-up game against Loughborough University.
FC United manager Karl Marginson hopes the fledgling star will become the first of many youngsters winning international honours at the club.
He said: "It was always something we aspired to when we set up the youth system as it benefits the players, the club and the wider community as well.
"Scott reminds me a lot of myself when I was his age and I think he has the potential to go on and play at a higher level. But also as a club we are looking to grow, and if players like Scott stay with us and reach that higher standard playing for FC United then it works all-round."
Cheetham is one of several players who have arrived at FC United through the club’s partnership with the Manchester College, where he is studying for an NVQ in exercise and fitness.
Football fans do not expect to pick the team
Source: The Guardian
Supporters just want clubs to be run democratically, rather than by the dictatorship of chairmen
o Dave Boyle
o The Guardian, Thursday 20 January 2011
In her column on the role of fans in the ownership and governance of football clubs, Louise Taylor debates whether it's better to have "benevolent dictatorship or democracy" (Power to the people is false economy, 13 January). But in siding with the former, she says that "some supporters need reminding that purchasing a season ticket buys the rental of a seat rather than the right to elect a new manager or left-back".
Fans would hardly ask for their ashes to be scattered over the pitch if their relationship with the club were so cold and simple; but the notion that the fan-ownership movement is about wanting to pick the team is a fallacy. Taylor seems to have taken the idea about voting for the squad from Ebbsfleet, which is unfortunate since that club is not part of the move to fan ownership and democracy – it was based on a canny marketing hook about the wisdom of crowds, not the wisdom of fans creating a vehicle to have strategic control over their club. Instead of Ebbsfleet, she would have been better looking at clubs which are part of that movement, and which paint a rather different picture.
FC United of Manchester have raised £1m in a community share issue via a one-member, one-vote co-operative. AFC Wimbledon, promoted four times in eight seasons and sitting at the top of the non-league pyramid, was re-formed by fans after their club was stolen from them. Exeter City's supporters' trust picked up the pieces of a club in decline, and it has now been promoted twice, with gates increased by 70%.
Taylor criticises club chairmen for "fuelling daft, disingenuous fantasies of democracy"; but the notion of fans being given ideas above their station by owners keen to share power and responsibility over these cherished institutions is risible. Over the last 10 years we have helped fans form over 170 supporters' co-operatives across the UK, representing over 250,000 supporters.
While some enlightened clubs, such as Arsenal, recognise the benefits of a dialogue with supporters' groups, the sad reality is that the contribution of most chairmen is merely to highlight the need for supporter democracy through their own greed, mismanagement and, in some cases, criminality. Fans know that today's "benevolent dictator" is likely to be tomorrow's false god, asset-stripper or capricious egotist.
Taylor suggests that fans should demand more tangible goals, such as lower season ticket prices and better facilities – as if these were not linked to club ownership and governance. Does she really believe that it was simply an absence of benevolence that let British stadiums become crumbling deathtraps, or which caused ticket prices to rise so ludicrously above inflation? The root cause was that the people making decisions were unaccountable to those on the receiving end.
If you want to see what clubs do when they are accountable and democratic, go and watch a game in Germany. The stadiums are new and atmospheric, and the ticket prices are cheap. That model of ownership is a requirement of the German Bundesliga; that's the kind of benevolent dictating we need here.
Supporters just want clubs to be run democratically, rather than by the dictatorship of chairmen
o Dave Boyle
o The Guardian, Thursday 20 January 2011
In her column on the role of fans in the ownership and governance of football clubs, Louise Taylor debates whether it's better to have "benevolent dictatorship or democracy" (Power to the people is false economy, 13 January). But in siding with the former, she says that "some supporters need reminding that purchasing a season ticket buys the rental of a seat rather than the right to elect a new manager or left-back".
Fans would hardly ask for their ashes to be scattered over the pitch if their relationship with the club were so cold and simple; but the notion that the fan-ownership movement is about wanting to pick the team is a fallacy. Taylor seems to have taken the idea about voting for the squad from Ebbsfleet, which is unfortunate since that club is not part of the move to fan ownership and democracy – it was based on a canny marketing hook about the wisdom of crowds, not the wisdom of fans creating a vehicle to have strategic control over their club. Instead of Ebbsfleet, she would have been better looking at clubs which are part of that movement, and which paint a rather different picture.
FC United of Manchester have raised £1m in a community share issue via a one-member, one-vote co-operative. AFC Wimbledon, promoted four times in eight seasons and sitting at the top of the non-league pyramid, was re-formed by fans after their club was stolen from them. Exeter City's supporters' trust picked up the pieces of a club in decline, and it has now been promoted twice, with gates increased by 70%.
Taylor criticises club chairmen for "fuelling daft, disingenuous fantasies of democracy"; but the notion of fans being given ideas above their station by owners keen to share power and responsibility over these cherished institutions is risible. Over the last 10 years we have helped fans form over 170 supporters' co-operatives across the UK, representing over 250,000 supporters.
While some enlightened clubs, such as Arsenal, recognise the benefits of a dialogue with supporters' groups, the sad reality is that the contribution of most chairmen is merely to highlight the need for supporter democracy through their own greed, mismanagement and, in some cases, criminality. Fans know that today's "benevolent dictator" is likely to be tomorrow's false god, asset-stripper or capricious egotist.
Taylor suggests that fans should demand more tangible goals, such as lower season ticket prices and better facilities – as if these were not linked to club ownership and governance. Does she really believe that it was simply an absence of benevolence that let British stadiums become crumbling deathtraps, or which caused ticket prices to rise so ludicrously above inflation? The root cause was that the people making decisions were unaccountable to those on the receiving end.
If you want to see what clubs do when they are accountable and democratic, go and watch a game in Germany. The stadiums are new and atmospheric, and the ticket prices are cheap. That model of ownership is a requirement of the German Bundesliga; that's the kind of benevolent dictating we need here.
United are blown away as FC United breeze away with maximum points
Source: Retford Times
Retford United 0 FC United of Manchester 4
FC UNITED of Manchester rolled into town to face Retford United at Cannon Park on an afternoon when the blustery conditions would make their mark.
The Badgers gave a home debut to Luke Herriott in goal, and striker Michael Blythen took his place up front after signing from Dinnington Town. Retford had an attacking bench with Steve Owens, Jake Vernon and Matt Booth all hoping to see some action.
Luke Herriott received an early warning of the conditions when his goal kick swirled in the oncoming wind and barely left his own half.
Click here for more
And he was left red faced on three minutes, when a Retford attack fizzled out, the ball being played back to Sam Ashton, the FC United keeper. Ashton sent the ball upfield and with the wind assisting the long kick, Herriott failed to judge an awkward bounce and the ball looped over him into back of the net.
It has since been worked out that the goal would have been scored from approximately 107 yards.
There was little in the way of chances for either side until the 21st minute when FC United extended their lead. A surging run by Jerome Wright saw the striker run into the box and slide the ball low past the diving Herriott.
A free-kick whipped in from the touchline by James Holden was a fraction wide of the upright, then after more pressure, Blake was forced to concede another corner as he got the final touch from Norton's shot on target to deflect away.
The onslaught continued as the half-time break approached. Herriott got a hand to a cross with Matt Wolfenden unmarked in the box. The all was eventually cleared by Matt Caudwell.
As the first half came to a conclusion, Retford made a rare foray into the FC United half, winning a free-kick after Boggild had been felled.
The free-kick was taken by Ryan Hindley, but the FC United defence were in place to clear the ball and keep the scoreline in their favour at the break.
The second half saw Retford secure more possession. A cross from Blythen to Boggild was headed into the feet of Sam Foulds.
The ball was played out for Lee Whittington who then found the run of Austin on the right, who won a corner.
The ball floated in by Hindley lacked the distance required and FC United cleared the danger.
FC United attacked once again, as Wright's run found Cottrell and Herriott did well to save his shot.
It was frustrating for the home supporters as Retford once again lacked the firepower to haul themselves back into the match.
Blythen almost found himself in a goalscoring position, challenging Ashton but the FC United stopper kept control to clear.
FC United should have been three up on the hour mark, a cross by Norton was hit over at the far post by Wolfenden.
Steve Owens entered the game in place of Joe Boggild, his early contribution saw a cross from the right for Whittington who was inside the six yard box but could only put his effort over the bar from close range.
Ryan Hindley burst through making a run forward; he was caught with two men tracking him and despite going down in the box, a corner ball was the expected outcome.
However, the referee decided on a goal-kick.
Ashton then found himself on the receiving end of the windy conditions; his clearance was blown back, being picked up by Ian Robinson who played in Blythen, only for Ashton to collect the ball from the debutantes feet.
There was another half-hearted shout for a Retford penalty when Whittington and McManus tangled in the box.
Whittington seemed to be pulled over, but the game was allowed to flow as FC United hooked the ball clear.
The third goal for the visitors fell for Wolfenden on 71 minutes, his first shot was blocked well by Herriott, but the rebound fell back to his feet and he cooly slotted the ball into the bottom left corner.
Retford had another chance soon afterwards. A long goal-kick from Herriott found Blythen who took the ball to the edge of the box, but then snatched at his shot to fire his effort over the bar.
The game was over on 77 minutes, a lay off by Wolfenden for Cottrell was hit home for FC United's fourth sending their supporters home happy, after being in fine voice all afternoon.
In the dying minutes, Herriott pulled off a great save from Carden's shot and Blythen's shot was saved by Ashton, with Owens hitting the follow up straight at the FC United keeper.
Another disappointing afternoon for Retford as they continue to be cut adrift at the foot of the Evo-stik Premier League table.
Retford now face another home game on Saturday, this time Ashton United are the visitors. (KO 3pm).
Attendance: 544
Retford United 0 FC United of Manchester 4
FC UNITED of Manchester rolled into town to face Retford United at Cannon Park on an afternoon when the blustery conditions would make their mark.
The Badgers gave a home debut to Luke Herriott in goal, and striker Michael Blythen took his place up front after signing from Dinnington Town. Retford had an attacking bench with Steve Owens, Jake Vernon and Matt Booth all hoping to see some action.
Luke Herriott received an early warning of the conditions when his goal kick swirled in the oncoming wind and barely left his own half.
Click here for more
And he was left red faced on three minutes, when a Retford attack fizzled out, the ball being played back to Sam Ashton, the FC United keeper. Ashton sent the ball upfield and with the wind assisting the long kick, Herriott failed to judge an awkward bounce and the ball looped over him into back of the net.
It has since been worked out that the goal would have been scored from approximately 107 yards.
There was little in the way of chances for either side until the 21st minute when FC United extended their lead. A surging run by Jerome Wright saw the striker run into the box and slide the ball low past the diving Herriott.
A free-kick whipped in from the touchline by James Holden was a fraction wide of the upright, then after more pressure, Blake was forced to concede another corner as he got the final touch from Norton's shot on target to deflect away.
The onslaught continued as the half-time break approached. Herriott got a hand to a cross with Matt Wolfenden unmarked in the box. The all was eventually cleared by Matt Caudwell.
As the first half came to a conclusion, Retford made a rare foray into the FC United half, winning a free-kick after Boggild had been felled.
The free-kick was taken by Ryan Hindley, but the FC United defence were in place to clear the ball and keep the scoreline in their favour at the break.
The second half saw Retford secure more possession. A cross from Blythen to Boggild was headed into the feet of Sam Foulds.
The ball was played out for Lee Whittington who then found the run of Austin on the right, who won a corner.
The ball floated in by Hindley lacked the distance required and FC United cleared the danger.
FC United attacked once again, as Wright's run found Cottrell and Herriott did well to save his shot.
It was frustrating for the home supporters as Retford once again lacked the firepower to haul themselves back into the match.
Blythen almost found himself in a goalscoring position, challenging Ashton but the FC United stopper kept control to clear.
FC United should have been three up on the hour mark, a cross by Norton was hit over at the far post by Wolfenden.
Steve Owens entered the game in place of Joe Boggild, his early contribution saw a cross from the right for Whittington who was inside the six yard box but could only put his effort over the bar from close range.
Ryan Hindley burst through making a run forward; he was caught with two men tracking him and despite going down in the box, a corner ball was the expected outcome.
However, the referee decided on a goal-kick.
Ashton then found himself on the receiving end of the windy conditions; his clearance was blown back, being picked up by Ian Robinson who played in Blythen, only for Ashton to collect the ball from the debutantes feet.
There was another half-hearted shout for a Retford penalty when Whittington and McManus tangled in the box.
Whittington seemed to be pulled over, but the game was allowed to flow as FC United hooked the ball clear.
The third goal for the visitors fell for Wolfenden on 71 minutes, his first shot was blocked well by Herriott, but the rebound fell back to his feet and he cooly slotted the ball into the bottom left corner.
Retford had another chance soon afterwards. A long goal-kick from Herriott found Blythen who took the ball to the edge of the box, but then snatched at his shot to fire his effort over the bar.
The game was over on 77 minutes, a lay off by Wolfenden for Cottrell was hit home for FC United's fourth sending their supporters home happy, after being in fine voice all afternoon.
In the dying minutes, Herriott pulled off a great save from Carden's shot and Blythen's shot was saved by Ashton, with Owens hitting the follow up straight at the FC United keeper.
Another disappointing afternoon for Retford as they continue to be cut adrift at the foot of the Evo-stik Premier League table.
Retford now face another home game on Saturday, this time Ashton United are the visitors. (KO 3pm).
Attendance: 544
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