Source: Daily Post
by Andrew Gilpin, DPW West
May 27 2011
LOOK at how we live our lives today. Through our smart phones and computers we’re constantly connected to everything and everyone we love.
We’re part of many different networks depending on our interests. Ideas, pleas and information are transmitted all over the world through the likes of Twitter and Facebook as part of a huge social experiment which stretches as far as you want, from North Wales to the rest of the world.
Networks where like-minded people join to celebrate and discuss the things they love, from 80s sitcoms to political ideals to football clubs.
There’s never been a better time to feel a part of something.
Networks can work for the good of modern society, with revolutions in Tunisia and Egypt this Spring having been fired by them.
Information is freely assimilated and those who care can decide what actions must be taken. Those with bad intentions will soon be shouted down by the greater good.
A network of people who care, working for the good of an institution. It’s a great fantastical notion isn’t it?
But it works in the real world – as well as in the heads of idealistic hacks – as Wrexham Supporters Trust are so close to proving as they hope to announce their takeover of Wrexham FC in the next few days.
The owners of our national game are slow to catch up on notions like these, but the change is coming.
Let’s not forget that when the internet was growing, the beautiful game was at the forefront of it, because nothing connects people from all walks of life more than sport.
The days of the single owners of public institutions like football clubs are coming to an end. They must be.
Since the Bosman ruling there’s no real way to get rich quick out of football. You can’t sell players at the drop of a hat and even the ones who leave under the age of 24 are usually passed on to bigger clubs on the cheap.
All the TV and sponsorship money goes to the big boys and the top teams hoover up all the best teen talent. It’s extremely rare for a talented youngster to slip through their net and make a small club a mint – you’re usually left with their cast-offs.
The only way to make money – or even break even – is to tinker with a club’s other assets, and Wrexham fans know that’s a dangerous road.
Why would you want your football club owned by just one man, unless he was a rich benefactor who loved the club such as Jack Walker or Dave Whelan?
Football clubs are too important to too many people to be left to the whims of one man. Soon all small football clubs must be community owned or they won’t survive.
Fans-owned club had a rocky start, but due to bodies such as Supporters Direct the tide is turning. For every Stockport or Lincoln there’s an AFC Wimbledon, Exeter, FC United of Manchester, Chester City or even Barcelona.
Well-run clubs at the heart of their communities, where local businesses are pleased to get involved and supporters gladly hand over their cash both for matches and merchandise knowing all the profits will be poured back into the club.
Wrexham FC stands on the verge of joining them, and it could be the proudest day in their 139-year history.
There will be tough times ahead, especially in the early days, but fans have joined together to save something they love, so look at the possibilities.
Say the club can’t afford to pay the wages, or a tax bill for example. Now it can be upfront and appeal directly to the supporters – the club’s owners – to help. A few pounds from fans on a pledge website would solve the problem in an instant and stop debts mounting up.
Wrexham fans wouldn’t be anywhere near this moment without the internet – it’s done more for supporters than standing together at 3pm on a Saturday.
And WST would also not have been able to raise their profile, membership and bank balance as successfully without it (but don’t forget local newspapers, they’re important too).
The new birth of Wrexham FC won’t fail unless we let it, but if one thing’s been proved over the past decade, it’s that there are dedicated fans who love the club and would do anything for it.
If they pour their energy into this fans-owned venture as much as they did saving the club, Wrexham FC has a very bright future to look forward to.
Join WST at www.wst.org.uk and be a part of it.
Showing posts with label Daily Post. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Daily Post. Show all posts
Friday, May 27, 2011
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Wrexham FC fans told: ‘Don’t give up on your dream’
Source: Daily Post
by Mark Currie, DPW West, May 19 2011
SUPPORTERS of Wrexham FC have been told not to give up on their dream of one day owning the club and running it for the benefit of the wider community.
The message from Jules Spencer, a founding member of FC United of Manchester, was delivered at a public meeting that had been arranged by Wrexham Supporters’ Trust before Monday’s announcement that a bid by Shrewsbury businessman Jon Harris had been accepted by club owners Geoff Moss and Ian Roberts.
Although bitterly disappointed by the decision, the Trust decided to go ahead with a detailed presentation of the substance of and rationale for its own proposals designed to secure the long-term future of the club and the Racecourse Stadium as a community-based asset.
FC United director Spencer recalled he had spoken 12 months ago at a meeting that led to the formation of a fans-owned Chester FC after the city’s previous club had gone out of business under the chairmanship of recently jailed businessman and disqualified director, Stephen Vaughan.
“Chester fans did not know which way to turn because they had been kicked from pillar to post,” he said.
“They wanted their club back but you could sense the doubt and unease in the room because supporters had been told year in and year out to know their place, hand over their money and stand on the terraces.
“But (clubs like) AFC Wimbledon, FC United of Manchester and Chester FC have proved that to be wrong and, given that opportunity, you (Wrexham fans) can prove it as well.”
New Wrexham owner Mr Harris, formerly general manager at Shrewsbury Town, said on Monday his successful bid had been backed financially by millionaire Colin Poole, the disgraced former co-founder of Claims Direct, who is both a disqualified director and has been struck off as a solicitor.
Wrexham MP Ian Lucas, a member of the Trust and backer of the Trust’s ownership bid, has called on Business Secretary Vince Cable to examine any potential infringement of company law. Dave Boyle, chief executive of nationwide fans organisation, Supporters Direct, has asked the football authorities to subject both Mr Harris and Mr Poole to its “fit and proper person” test.
Trust chairman Richard Owen told the meeting: “We can still do this. We have a credible plan in place and we are ready to implement it again should we be given the opportunity.”
Asked whether the Trust would take up Mr Poole’s offer of a 25% shareholding in the club and a seat in the boardroom, Owen added: “We are still reeling from the news (of the takeover) and we need to meet as a board to discuss this.
“We need to understand exactly what the club is offering.”
But Kevin Jaquiss, a specialist lawyer with Manchester-based firm, Cobbetts, warned the Trust’s constitution was very specific with regard to any potential investment.
“The directors of the Trust have to be satisfied that any of its money it spends will be for the benefit of the community.”
An emergency motion was set to be put forward to Wrexham Council last night to discuss the club’s position.
by Mark Currie, DPW West, May 19 2011
SUPPORTERS of Wrexham FC have been told not to give up on their dream of one day owning the club and running it for the benefit of the wider community.
The message from Jules Spencer, a founding member of FC United of Manchester, was delivered at a public meeting that had been arranged by Wrexham Supporters’ Trust before Monday’s announcement that a bid by Shrewsbury businessman Jon Harris had been accepted by club owners Geoff Moss and Ian Roberts.
Although bitterly disappointed by the decision, the Trust decided to go ahead with a detailed presentation of the substance of and rationale for its own proposals designed to secure the long-term future of the club and the Racecourse Stadium as a community-based asset.
FC United director Spencer recalled he had spoken 12 months ago at a meeting that led to the formation of a fans-owned Chester FC after the city’s previous club had gone out of business under the chairmanship of recently jailed businessman and disqualified director, Stephen Vaughan.
“Chester fans did not know which way to turn because they had been kicked from pillar to post,” he said.
“They wanted their club back but you could sense the doubt and unease in the room because supporters had been told year in and year out to know their place, hand over their money and stand on the terraces.
“But (clubs like) AFC Wimbledon, FC United of Manchester and Chester FC have proved that to be wrong and, given that opportunity, you (Wrexham fans) can prove it as well.”
New Wrexham owner Mr Harris, formerly general manager at Shrewsbury Town, said on Monday his successful bid had been backed financially by millionaire Colin Poole, the disgraced former co-founder of Claims Direct, who is both a disqualified director and has been struck off as a solicitor.
Wrexham MP Ian Lucas, a member of the Trust and backer of the Trust’s ownership bid, has called on Business Secretary Vince Cable to examine any potential infringement of company law. Dave Boyle, chief executive of nationwide fans organisation, Supporters Direct, has asked the football authorities to subject both Mr Harris and Mr Poole to its “fit and proper person” test.
Trust chairman Richard Owen told the meeting: “We can still do this. We have a credible plan in place and we are ready to implement it again should we be given the opportunity.”
Asked whether the Trust would take up Mr Poole’s offer of a 25% shareholding in the club and a seat in the boardroom, Owen added: “We are still reeling from the news (of the takeover) and we need to meet as a board to discuss this.
“We need to understand exactly what the club is offering.”
But Kevin Jaquiss, a specialist lawyer with Manchester-based firm, Cobbetts, warned the Trust’s constitution was very specific with regard to any potential investment.
“The directors of the Trust have to be satisfied that any of its money it spends will be for the benefit of the community.”
An emergency motion was set to be put forward to Wrexham Council last night to discuss the club’s position.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Wrexham FC Supporters Trust step up campaign to buy club
Source: Daily Post
* by Steve Bagnall, DPW East
* May 12 2011
THE battle for Wrexham FC intensified today with the club’s largest supporter group launching the second phase of their bid to buy the Dragons.
Buoyed by the success of their “Million Reasons” sharehold venture – which secured more than £200,000 in indicative offers from fans to buy shares to run the club – the Wrexham Supporters Trust (WST) today unveiled their “Roadmap” scheme.
With the Dragons out of the play-offs to get back into the Football League after Tuesday’s 2-1 loss at Luton Town, WST believe now is the time to push to buy the club, The Racecourse Ground and Colliers Park training ground.
Yesterday they revealed they were ready to fully launch a community share scheme facilitated by Supporters Direct and law firm Cobbetts Law, who have facilitated similar plans for other clubs.
They said they were aiming to get a majority ownership of the club and give the assets back to the community.
And with prospective buyer Stephanie Booth now out of the race and Colin Poole remaining tight lipped on his position, the trust revealed more details on how they would create a sustainable club.
An open meeting has been set for Tuesday next week at Glyndwr University to hear about the progress of the bid and the Roadmap to achieve community ownership.
Chairman of Wrexham Supporters Trust, Richard Owen said: “This season has been full of twists and turns, like no other.
“Whilst we just fell short in our efforts to win promotion back to the football league, there is a chance to make a long lasting difference off the pitch and the time is right for the community to take on this challenge.
“I urge Wrexham fans and potential investors to turn up in numbers on Tuesday 17 May to show your support for our club.
“A community based bid for Wrexham Football Club led by the Wrexham Supporters Trust.”
The Roadmap plan includes details on acquiring the club subject to membership approval.
The trust want to invest their £400,000 in working capital and finalise a business and budget plan for next season following due diligence of the club’s finances.
They want to asset lock the Racecourse by placing it into a community interest company (CIC), generate more income through maximising assets and look to attract outside investment to return the Racecourse to an international standard venue.
At Tuesday’s meeting they will hear speakers with experience of delivering similar plans including Kevin Jaquiss of Cobbetts Law, FC United who have raised over £1.4 million in a community shares scheme, and Chester FC who are back on the way up after supporters took ownership.
Yesterday Wrexham MP Ian Lucas backed the Trust’s venture.
He said: “I’m delighted to support the WST’s bid to acquire Wrexham FC and hope that the owners take this opportunity to leave a legacy of community ownership for the people of Wrexham.
“I believe that this community-led bid is in the best long-term interest of Wrexham as a town.”
l THE WST launch meeting will be held in the William Aston Hall at Glyndr University starting at 7:30pm.
* by Steve Bagnall, DPW East
* May 12 2011
THE battle for Wrexham FC intensified today with the club’s largest supporter group launching the second phase of their bid to buy the Dragons.
Buoyed by the success of their “Million Reasons” sharehold venture – which secured more than £200,000 in indicative offers from fans to buy shares to run the club – the Wrexham Supporters Trust (WST) today unveiled their “Roadmap” scheme.
With the Dragons out of the play-offs to get back into the Football League after Tuesday’s 2-1 loss at Luton Town, WST believe now is the time to push to buy the club, The Racecourse Ground and Colliers Park training ground.
Yesterday they revealed they were ready to fully launch a community share scheme facilitated by Supporters Direct and law firm Cobbetts Law, who have facilitated similar plans for other clubs.
They said they were aiming to get a majority ownership of the club and give the assets back to the community.
And with prospective buyer Stephanie Booth now out of the race and Colin Poole remaining tight lipped on his position, the trust revealed more details on how they would create a sustainable club.
An open meeting has been set for Tuesday next week at Glyndwr University to hear about the progress of the bid and the Roadmap to achieve community ownership.
Chairman of Wrexham Supporters Trust, Richard Owen said: “This season has been full of twists and turns, like no other.
“Whilst we just fell short in our efforts to win promotion back to the football league, there is a chance to make a long lasting difference off the pitch and the time is right for the community to take on this challenge.
“I urge Wrexham fans and potential investors to turn up in numbers on Tuesday 17 May to show your support for our club.
“A community based bid for Wrexham Football Club led by the Wrexham Supporters Trust.”
The Roadmap plan includes details on acquiring the club subject to membership approval.
The trust want to invest their £400,000 in working capital and finalise a business and budget plan for next season following due diligence of the club’s finances.
They want to asset lock the Racecourse by placing it into a community interest company (CIC), generate more income through maximising assets and look to attract outside investment to return the Racecourse to an international standard venue.
At Tuesday’s meeting they will hear speakers with experience of delivering similar plans including Kevin Jaquiss of Cobbetts Law, FC United who have raised over £1.4 million in a community shares scheme, and Chester FC who are back on the way up after supporters took ownership.
Yesterday Wrexham MP Ian Lucas backed the Trust’s venture.
He said: “I’m delighted to support the WST’s bid to acquire Wrexham FC and hope that the owners take this opportunity to leave a legacy of community ownership for the people of Wrexham.
“I believe that this community-led bid is in the best long-term interest of Wrexham as a town.”
l THE WST launch meeting will be held in the William Aston Hall at Glyndr University starting at 7:30pm.
Tuesday, May 03, 2011
Evo-Stik Premier play-off final: Colwyn Bay 1 FC United of Manchester 0
Source: Daily Post
JON NEWBY is the toast of Colwyn Bay after hitting the 69th minute winner that has earned the club back to back promotions and put the Llanelian Road side into the Blue Square Conference North next season.
And the former Liverpool and Bury forward said he rated it as among the best moments in his football career.
“I’ve had a few high points, but this is right up there among the best of them,” said the 32-year-old. “It means so much to the players as a group because we were written off at the start of the season.
“It is great for the fans who follow us around the country. This success is for them more than anybody, but it is just a fantastic day for everyone connected with the club.”
It was Newby’s experience that helped him keep his cool to put away the winning goal after he beat FC United’s offside trap with a perfectly timed run.
“I was telling myself just to stay cool and hit the target and it was a fantastic feeling to see the ball go in the net,” he added.
It has also been a wonderful season for skipper Damien Allen who spent the last 18 months of his time at Bury out of action through injury before joining the Seagulls at the start of the season.
The former Manchester United junior said: “Nothing beats this. I am very proud to be captain of such a great bunch of lads. They work really hard for each other. We have defended really well since Christmas and that is what has got us where we are more than anything.”
Player-boss Dave Challinor said that to win promotion in his first season as a manager was beyond his wildest dreams.
“I am so proud and feel quite emotional really,” he said.
“At the start of the season I just wanted to consolidate and to have got promotion is just an unbelievable achievement.
“It is all down to a fantastic bunch of lads who are really close and work their socks off for each other. And I am so pleased because this is such a nice club and the people here deserve it.”
FC United came with a huge following and probably just edged the game on possession, but they couldn’t get through a Colwyn Bay defence that has kept seven clean sheets in their last eight games to take them into an exciting new chapter in their history.
After a goalless first half in which neither keeper was really tested, it needed two fine saves from Bay’s Chris Sanna in the second half to prevent the Manchester side going in front.
He dived to turn away a deflected shot from Nicky Platt that looked to be heading for the net, and then leapt to turn a goalbound header from Scott McManus over the bar.
Colwyn Bay had certainly missed the attacking threat of injured Jimmy McCarthy on the right, but as the game began to open up, Joe McMahon headed narrowly wide from an Anthony Sheehan free kick and then Rob Hopley broke clear only to blaze his chance over the bar.
But Newby sent Llanelian Road wild five minutes later when he broke clear and kept his head to slide the ball past advancing keeper Sam Ashton for the only goal of the game.
Substitute Alex Titchiner went close to adding a second when he beat two defenders on a great run on the break only for his shot to narrowly clear the bar with Ashton beaten.
FC United piled on the pressure in the closing minutes, but Colwyn Bay’s defence held firm to clinch a tremendous day for the club.
COLWYN BAY: Sanna, Denson, Lea, Meadowcroft, McMahon, McLachlan, Sheehan, Allen, Hopley (Davey 81), Newby (Grannon 85), Noon (Titchiner 59). Subs: Evans, Challinor.
JON NEWBY is the toast of Colwyn Bay after hitting the 69th minute winner that has earned the club back to back promotions and put the Llanelian Road side into the Blue Square Conference North next season.
And the former Liverpool and Bury forward said he rated it as among the best moments in his football career.
“I’ve had a few high points, but this is right up there among the best of them,” said the 32-year-old. “It means so much to the players as a group because we were written off at the start of the season.
“It is great for the fans who follow us around the country. This success is for them more than anybody, but it is just a fantastic day for everyone connected with the club.”
It was Newby’s experience that helped him keep his cool to put away the winning goal after he beat FC United’s offside trap with a perfectly timed run.
“I was telling myself just to stay cool and hit the target and it was a fantastic feeling to see the ball go in the net,” he added.
It has also been a wonderful season for skipper Damien Allen who spent the last 18 months of his time at Bury out of action through injury before joining the Seagulls at the start of the season.
The former Manchester United junior said: “Nothing beats this. I am very proud to be captain of such a great bunch of lads. They work really hard for each other. We have defended really well since Christmas and that is what has got us where we are more than anything.”
Player-boss Dave Challinor said that to win promotion in his first season as a manager was beyond his wildest dreams.
“I am so proud and feel quite emotional really,” he said.
“At the start of the season I just wanted to consolidate and to have got promotion is just an unbelievable achievement.
“It is all down to a fantastic bunch of lads who are really close and work their socks off for each other. And I am so pleased because this is such a nice club and the people here deserve it.”
FC United came with a huge following and probably just edged the game on possession, but they couldn’t get through a Colwyn Bay defence that has kept seven clean sheets in their last eight games to take them into an exciting new chapter in their history.
After a goalless first half in which neither keeper was really tested, it needed two fine saves from Bay’s Chris Sanna in the second half to prevent the Manchester side going in front.
He dived to turn away a deflected shot from Nicky Platt that looked to be heading for the net, and then leapt to turn a goalbound header from Scott McManus over the bar.
Colwyn Bay had certainly missed the attacking threat of injured Jimmy McCarthy on the right, but as the game began to open up, Joe McMahon headed narrowly wide from an Anthony Sheehan free kick and then Rob Hopley broke clear only to blaze his chance over the bar.
But Newby sent Llanelian Road wild five minutes later when he broke clear and kept his head to slide the ball past advancing keeper Sam Ashton for the only goal of the game.
Substitute Alex Titchiner went close to adding a second when he beat two defenders on a great run on the break only for his shot to narrowly clear the bar with Ashton beaten.
FC United piled on the pressure in the closing minutes, but Colwyn Bay’s defence held firm to clinch a tremendous day for the club.
COLWYN BAY: Sanna, Denson, Lea, Meadowcroft, McMahon, McLachlan, Sheehan, Allen, Hopley (Davey 81), Newby (Grannon 85), Noon (Titchiner 59). Subs: Evans, Challinor.
Day of great celebration for Colwyn Bay
Source: Daily Post
* by Owen R Hughes, DPW West
* May 3 2011
THE seaside town of Colwyn Bay was celebrating in the sun after one of the biggest matches in its football club’s history on the same day as 50,000 descended for Prom Day.
Police were out in force as FC United of Manchester arrived with around 2,000 supporters, despite only 1,000 having tickets for the crunch promotion play-off final.
This followed reports United’s manager had urged ticketless fans to travel to the match at Bay’s Llanelian Road ground and watch from an adjacent hill.
But despite hundreds of fans swarming around Old Colwyn, combined with the thousands attending the promenade event, the day passed relatively peacefully apart from a few scuffles following the only goal in Bay’s 1-0 victory that takes them up to the Blue Square North.
Cllr Chris Hughes, a Colwyn Bay fan, said: “It has been a fantastic day – first we went to the Prom Day and then watched the match. There was a tremendous atmosphere at the match and at the prom. This is a great day for Colwyn Bay and we will be celebrating tonight.”
He added: “There were a couple of incidents involving United fans during the match but walking home there were no problems that we could see.”
Before the match supporters were greeted at Colwyn Bay railway station by two police riot vans.
Several pubs in the town centre were busy, with supporters spilling out into the streets. There was also a huge congregation of FC United fans at the Marine Hotel in Old Colwyn as supporters made their way up to the Llanelian Road ground for the 3pm kick-off.
As well as the 2,000 in the ground there were up to 600 supporters, mainly from Manchester, up on the hill above the pitch. Fan John Williams said: “There was a great atmosphere although there were a few scuffles on the hill after the goal.
“It was mainly FC United fans up there but there were some Bay lads. When the goal went in they were attacked by some of the United fans but the police were quick to deal with it. It’s a great day for Colwyn Bay.”
Police Inspector Glen Brumby said: “The match proceeded peacefully. There was one arrest for a minor public order offence.” Twenty officers were on duty to cover the match and Prom Day.
* by Owen R Hughes, DPW West
* May 3 2011
THE seaside town of Colwyn Bay was celebrating in the sun after one of the biggest matches in its football club’s history on the same day as 50,000 descended for Prom Day.
Police were out in force as FC United of Manchester arrived with around 2,000 supporters, despite only 1,000 having tickets for the crunch promotion play-off final.
This followed reports United’s manager had urged ticketless fans to travel to the match at Bay’s Llanelian Road ground and watch from an adjacent hill.
But despite hundreds of fans swarming around Old Colwyn, combined with the thousands attending the promenade event, the day passed relatively peacefully apart from a few scuffles following the only goal in Bay’s 1-0 victory that takes them up to the Blue Square North.
Cllr Chris Hughes, a Colwyn Bay fan, said: “It has been a fantastic day – first we went to the Prom Day and then watched the match. There was a tremendous atmosphere at the match and at the prom. This is a great day for Colwyn Bay and we will be celebrating tonight.”
He added: “There were a couple of incidents involving United fans during the match but walking home there were no problems that we could see.”
Before the match supporters were greeted at Colwyn Bay railway station by two police riot vans.
Several pubs in the town centre were busy, with supporters spilling out into the streets. There was also a huge congregation of FC United fans at the Marine Hotel in Old Colwyn as supporters made their way up to the Llanelian Road ground for the 3pm kick-off.
As well as the 2,000 in the ground there were up to 600 supporters, mainly from Manchester, up on the hill above the pitch. Fan John Williams said: “There was a great atmosphere although there were a few scuffles on the hill after the goal.
“It was mainly FC United fans up there but there were some Bay lads. When the goal went in they were attacked by some of the United fans but the police were quick to deal with it. It’s a great day for Colwyn Bay.”
Police Inspector Glen Brumby said: “The match proceeded peacefully. There was one arrest for a minor public order offence.” Twenty officers were on duty to cover the match and Prom Day.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Thousands to flock to Colwyn Bay for play-off final and Prom Day
Source: Daily Post
* by Dave Powell, DPW West
* Apr 30 2011
POLICE are putting in place plans to handle a major football match which will attract 2,000 supporters.
Soccer fans will descend on a resort for a showpiece play-off final involving a team backed by spin-off Manchester United fans.
It comes on Bank Holiday Monday, May 2 – the same day as Colwyn Bay Prom Day, which attracted 15,000 revellers last year.
The clash between Colwyn Bay and FC United of Manchester will be at 3pm at the Llanelian Road ground of the Bay.
But officials want to avoid a repeat of crowd trouble when Colwyn Bay played a tense pre-season friendly against Chester FC last July 10.
Chester were trailing 2-0 away to Colwyn Bay when 15 to 20 travelling supporters clashed with police and security staff. The match was held up for a couple of minutes before the fracas calmed down – and several fans were arrested as the police helicopter hovered overhead.
Yesterday Inspector Glyn Brumby, of North Wales Police, said: “We are aware of the football fixture and plans are currently being put in place to police the event.”
Cllr Glyn Jones, who is a North Wales Police Authority member and lives 200 yards from the Llanelian Road ground, said: “There was trouble on the day Colwyn Bay played Chester. That took us by surprise and I’m quite confident that the police will have in place adequate precautions to deal with this match.
“I’m sure they and British Transport Police at Colwyn Bay Station will keep any disruption to a minimum. Most fans will act responsibly.”
He said it would be most straightforward to ask away fans to go along the Promenade and up past The Marine pub to Llanelian Road.
He added: “It’s a tremendous coup for Colwyn Bay FC to reach this play-off final. It would be nice if they won.”
Due to a capacity restriction of 2,000, both clubs have been allocated 1,000 tickets for this Evo-stik sponsored Premier Division play-off final. The Seagulls’ average gate is 400-500.
Mark Williams, a Colwyn Bay FC director, said tickets, costing £10 or £6 for concessions (OAPS and under 16s) go on sale today at 10.30am. Fans must go in person to Llanelian Road ticket office.
Mr Williams apologised to fans who had turned up yesterday but said both sides’ 1,000 ticket allocations had to go on sale simultaneously.
Victory would propel the Seagulls into the Blue Square Conference North division, one league below Wrexham in the Blue Square Conference Premier.
* by Dave Powell, DPW West
* Apr 30 2011
POLICE are putting in place plans to handle a major football match which will attract 2,000 supporters.
Soccer fans will descend on a resort for a showpiece play-off final involving a team backed by spin-off Manchester United fans.
It comes on Bank Holiday Monday, May 2 – the same day as Colwyn Bay Prom Day, which attracted 15,000 revellers last year.
The clash between Colwyn Bay and FC United of Manchester will be at 3pm at the Llanelian Road ground of the Bay.
But officials want to avoid a repeat of crowd trouble when Colwyn Bay played a tense pre-season friendly against Chester FC last July 10.
Chester were trailing 2-0 away to Colwyn Bay when 15 to 20 travelling supporters clashed with police and security staff. The match was held up for a couple of minutes before the fracas calmed down – and several fans were arrested as the police helicopter hovered overhead.
Yesterday Inspector Glyn Brumby, of North Wales Police, said: “We are aware of the football fixture and plans are currently being put in place to police the event.”
Cllr Glyn Jones, who is a North Wales Police Authority member and lives 200 yards from the Llanelian Road ground, said: “There was trouble on the day Colwyn Bay played Chester. That took us by surprise and I’m quite confident that the police will have in place adequate precautions to deal with this match.
“I’m sure they and British Transport Police at Colwyn Bay Station will keep any disruption to a minimum. Most fans will act responsibly.”
He said it would be most straightforward to ask away fans to go along the Promenade and up past The Marine pub to Llanelian Road.
He added: “It’s a tremendous coup for Colwyn Bay FC to reach this play-off final. It would be nice if they won.”
Due to a capacity restriction of 2,000, both clubs have been allocated 1,000 tickets for this Evo-stik sponsored Premier Division play-off final. The Seagulls’ average gate is 400-500.
Mark Williams, a Colwyn Bay FC director, said tickets, costing £10 or £6 for concessions (OAPS and under 16s) go on sale today at 10.30am. Fans must go in person to Llanelian Road ticket office.
Mr Williams apologised to fans who had turned up yesterday but said both sides’ 1,000 ticket allocations had to go on sale simultaneously.
Victory would propel the Seagulls into the Blue Square Conference North division, one league below Wrexham in the Blue Square Conference Premier.
FC United of Manchester warn Colwyn Bay FC they’re confident of promotion
Source: Daily Post
FC UNITED have warned Colwyn Bay they intend to continue their remarkable rise through football’s lower echelons by beating their hosts in today’s play-off final at Llanelian Road.
Victory today would mark a fourth promotion in six seasons for the ambitious club, formed by disenchanted supporters of Manchester United.
The club continue to astonish their rivals with attendances which outstrip some of those at Football League games.
And despite Bay having beaten the Mancunians twice in league combat this season, FC United manager Karl Marginson is confident.
He said: “Colwyn beat us twice in the league but they were close games so we have nothing to fear – especially since we beat Rochdale in the FA Cup and then did so well against Brighton.
“Dave Challinor is their manager and he’s experienced and has a big team that concentrates on set pieces with good movement up top.
“My message to the lads who are sensible about these things is to enjoy the Bank Holiday weekend and then let’s give it our best on Monday afternoon.
“We are physically strong as you would expect at this stage of the season. We have the ability to beat them and continue our remarkable progress.”
FC UNITED have warned Colwyn Bay they intend to continue their remarkable rise through football’s lower echelons by beating their hosts in today’s play-off final at Llanelian Road.
Victory today would mark a fourth promotion in six seasons for the ambitious club, formed by disenchanted supporters of Manchester United.
The club continue to astonish their rivals with attendances which outstrip some of those at Football League games.
And despite Bay having beaten the Mancunians twice in league combat this season, FC United manager Karl Marginson is confident.
He said: “Colwyn beat us twice in the league but they were close games so we have nothing to fear – especially since we beat Rochdale in the FA Cup and then did so well against Brighton.
“Dave Challinor is their manager and he’s experienced and has a big team that concentrates on set pieces with good movement up top.
“My message to the lads who are sensible about these things is to enjoy the Bank Holiday weekend and then let’s give it our best on Monday afternoon.
“We are physically strong as you would expect at this stage of the season. We have the ability to beat them and continue our remarkable progress.”
Friday, April 29, 2011
Evo-Stik Premier: Colwyn Bay FC to face FC United in play-off final
Source: Daily Post
TWO first-half goals gave Colwyn Bay victory over North Ferriby in front of a crowd of over 861 last night and secured their place in next Monday's play-off final against FC United of Manchester.
That game at Llanelian Road will be all ticket, with tickets going on sale at the ground from 3pm today.
It looks set to be a tremendous occasion with FC United certain to bring a huge following after they beat Bradford Park Avenue in last night's other semi-final.
The only down side for the Seagulls last night was the injuries to Jon Newby and their star attacker Jimmy McCarthy.
Both had to be withdrawn at half-time with head injuries and could be struggling for Monday.
Colwyn Bay made a great start to the game and were a goal up after just nine minutes.
A long throw into the area by Jimmy McCarthy was played back by Danny Meadowcroft for Rob Hopley to volley a right-footed shot into the corner of the net from the edge of the area.
McCarthy then broke through on the right but shot wide.
North Ferriby looked threatening when they attacked but they were close to conceding a second goal on 15 minutes when another long throw by McCarthy picked out Meadowcroft whose header hit the top of the bar and bounced over.
Wayne Brooksby fired a shot narrowly over the bar and Alex Davidson and Russell Fry both brought diving saves from Chris Sanna as the Yorkshire side probed for an equaliser, and skipper Paul Foot headed wide from a corner.
Joe McMahon then headed goalwards from a McCarthy corner only for a North Ferriby defender to divert it over the bar, but Colwyn Bay got a second goal two minutes into added time at the end of the first half.
McCarthy cut inside his full-back and although his shot was blocked, he followed up to score with a brave header as he was clattered by keeper Adam Nicklin and a defender.
Newby was also hurt in a clash of heads during the build up to the goal and neither he or McCarthy, who also suffered a clash of heads in his collision, came out for the second half.
Newby needed stitches in a head wound and McCarthy was sporting a huge swelling on the side of his face.
Colwyn Bay started the second half well, however, with Damien Allen and Danny Meadowcroft both shooting narrowly over the bar.
But as the half progressed, and without the threat of McCarthy down the right, they dropped deeper and deeper into a defensive shell and looked to play mainly on the break.
Even so they could have increased their lead with Allen playing in substitute Karl Noon for a great chance, but he pulled his shot wide of the far post as the keeper came out to meet him.
Second substitute Alex Titchiner was then tripped as he was breaking clear on goal, but North Ferriby defender James Williams escaped with only a booking.
Damien Allen also went close again with a volley from 20 yards that swung narrowly wide.
The closing minutes saw North Ferriby camped in Colwyn Bay's half, but apart from beating away a shot from Gary Bradshaw, home keeper Sanna did not have a save to make as Colwyn Bay ran down the clock and secured their place in Monday's final.
TWO first-half goals gave Colwyn Bay victory over North Ferriby in front of a crowd of over 861 last night and secured their place in next Monday's play-off final against FC United of Manchester.
That game at Llanelian Road will be all ticket, with tickets going on sale at the ground from 3pm today.
It looks set to be a tremendous occasion with FC United certain to bring a huge following after they beat Bradford Park Avenue in last night's other semi-final.
The only down side for the Seagulls last night was the injuries to Jon Newby and their star attacker Jimmy McCarthy.
Both had to be withdrawn at half-time with head injuries and could be struggling for Monday.
Colwyn Bay made a great start to the game and were a goal up after just nine minutes.
A long throw into the area by Jimmy McCarthy was played back by Danny Meadowcroft for Rob Hopley to volley a right-footed shot into the corner of the net from the edge of the area.
McCarthy then broke through on the right but shot wide.
North Ferriby looked threatening when they attacked but they were close to conceding a second goal on 15 minutes when another long throw by McCarthy picked out Meadowcroft whose header hit the top of the bar and bounced over.
Wayne Brooksby fired a shot narrowly over the bar and Alex Davidson and Russell Fry both brought diving saves from Chris Sanna as the Yorkshire side probed for an equaliser, and skipper Paul Foot headed wide from a corner.
Joe McMahon then headed goalwards from a McCarthy corner only for a North Ferriby defender to divert it over the bar, but Colwyn Bay got a second goal two minutes into added time at the end of the first half.
McCarthy cut inside his full-back and although his shot was blocked, he followed up to score with a brave header as he was clattered by keeper Adam Nicklin and a defender.
Newby was also hurt in a clash of heads during the build up to the goal and neither he or McCarthy, who also suffered a clash of heads in his collision, came out for the second half.
Newby needed stitches in a head wound and McCarthy was sporting a huge swelling on the side of his face.
Colwyn Bay started the second half well, however, with Damien Allen and Danny Meadowcroft both shooting narrowly over the bar.
But as the half progressed, and without the threat of McCarthy down the right, they dropped deeper and deeper into a defensive shell and looked to play mainly on the break.
Even so they could have increased their lead with Allen playing in substitute Karl Noon for a great chance, but he pulled his shot wide of the far post as the keeper came out to meet him.
Second substitute Alex Titchiner was then tripped as he was breaking clear on goal, but North Ferriby defender James Williams escaped with only a booking.
Damien Allen also went close again with a volley from 20 yards that swung narrowly wide.
The closing minutes saw North Ferriby camped in Colwyn Bay's half, but apart from beating away a shot from Gary Bradshaw, home keeper Sanna did not have a save to make as Colwyn Bay ran down the clock and secured their place in Monday's final.
Thursday, February 03, 2011
FC United 0 Colwyn Bay 1
Source: Daily Post (Wales)
Tim Channon, DPW West
JON NEWBY’S first-half goal stole three precious points for Colwyn Bay at Gigg Lane last night.
But they had to survive a backs-to-the-wall second-half bombardment to cling onto the victory that opens a four-point gap in second place in the table.
The home side were also denied by three fantastic saves by keeper Chris Sanna which kept Colwyn Bay in the game.
He made a double save at point-blank range from Mike Norton and Simon Carden and when Norton looked certain to score from the second rebound, his effort was blocked on the line by Danny Grannon.
Sanna also rescued his side with a one-on-one save from Jerome Wright, before Colwyn Bay broke away to take the lead on 28 minutes.
Karl Noon put Newby clear and he cooly beat the advancing Sam Ashton.
FC United almost equalised right on half-time, but Norton failed to connect with Jerome Wright’s low cross from four yards out.
FC United then dominated the second half, but paid for three or four glaring misses.
In a rare Bay break Newby had a shot blocked by Ashton’s legs, but Colwyn Bay escaped again in injury time when Norton’s deflection flew straight into Sanna’s hands on the line.
Tim Channon, DPW West
JON NEWBY’S first-half goal stole three precious points for Colwyn Bay at Gigg Lane last night.
But they had to survive a backs-to-the-wall second-half bombardment to cling onto the victory that opens a four-point gap in second place in the table.
The home side were also denied by three fantastic saves by keeper Chris Sanna which kept Colwyn Bay in the game.
He made a double save at point-blank range from Mike Norton and Simon Carden and when Norton looked certain to score from the second rebound, his effort was blocked on the line by Danny Grannon.
Sanna also rescued his side with a one-on-one save from Jerome Wright, before Colwyn Bay broke away to take the lead on 28 minutes.
Karl Noon put Newby clear and he cooly beat the advancing Sam Ashton.
FC United almost equalised right on half-time, but Norton failed to connect with Jerome Wright’s low cross from four yards out.
FC United then dominated the second half, but paid for three or four glaring misses.
In a rare Bay break Newby had a shot blocked by Ashton’s legs, but Colwyn Bay escaped again in injury time when Norton’s deflection flew straight into Sanna’s hands on the line.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Colwyn Bay FC v FC United
Source: Daily Post, North Wales
COLWYN Bay will bid to enhance their top four status with a second home win in four days when they take on FC United at Llanelian Road tonight (7.45pm).
Victory could even lift Colwyn Bay into second place on their own if Northwich fail to win at Marine, but player-boss Dave Challinor is not underestimating the task his side face.
And he will again be looking for the same high level of performance and workrate that the players showed in last Saturday’s win against second-placed Buxton.
FC United, who are just one tie away from going into the hat with the Premier League big guns for the third round draw of the FA Cup, have just had an impressive seven-match winning run, including an FA Cup success at Rochdale, ended by last Saturday’s 1-0 league defeat at Northwich Victoria.
They will be keen to bounce back from that tonight, but they were somewhat fortunate to beat Colwyn Bay at Gigg Lane in the FA Trophy recently and Seagulls fans will be hoping their side can avenge that result tonight.
Colwyn Bay will need a late check on midfielder Mick McGraa who aggravated an ankle injury last Saturday, but the player-boss expects to have everyone available and says players on the bench will play a key role later in the game.
FC United are still without first choice keeper Zach Hibbert (broken nose), but are expected to include most of the players who won at Rochdale.
These include Jake Cottrell, who is one of five players shortlisted for the FA Cup Player of the Round award which is due to be announced next Monday.
COLWYN Bay will bid to enhance their top four status with a second home win in four days when they take on FC United at Llanelian Road tonight (7.45pm).
Victory could even lift Colwyn Bay into second place on their own if Northwich fail to win at Marine, but player-boss Dave Challinor is not underestimating the task his side face.
And he will again be looking for the same high level of performance and workrate that the players showed in last Saturday’s win against second-placed Buxton.
FC United, who are just one tie away from going into the hat with the Premier League big guns for the third round draw of the FA Cup, have just had an impressive seven-match winning run, including an FA Cup success at Rochdale, ended by last Saturday’s 1-0 league defeat at Northwich Victoria.
They will be keen to bounce back from that tonight, but they were somewhat fortunate to beat Colwyn Bay at Gigg Lane in the FA Trophy recently and Seagulls fans will be hoping their side can avenge that result tonight.
Colwyn Bay will need a late check on midfielder Mick McGraa who aggravated an ankle injury last Saturday, but the player-boss expects to have everyone available and says players on the bench will play a key role later in the game.
FC United are still without first choice keeper Zach Hibbert (broken nose), but are expected to include most of the players who won at Rochdale.
These include Jake Cottrell, who is one of five players shortlisted for the FA Cup Player of the Round award which is due to be announced next Monday.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Lower league sides must be run by the fans
Source: Daily Post, North Wales
Andrew Gilpin
THE day of the community club is coming... because who’d want to be a football club owner?
You’re on a hiding to nothing if you want to make money because you start with a certain amount of fans and slowly lose them through your decisions.
Supporters don’t like the manager. That’s a thousand gone. They’re unhappy with the prices. Say goodbye to another 500. Sold a top player? That's a 100. Had a crappy burger? That’s at least one person who’s never coming back.
Whatever initiatives you put into place you’re not going to grow more fans if the team isn’t successful, so you can’t make money from gate receipts.
You’ll have to look at the other assets.
You could sell on some players, but thanks to some guy called Bosman your first team is more or less worthless. You might as well try selling on the youngsters to keep it all going.
Then there’s the land. When you redevelop all that, what's left? You can’t grow any more of it.
Even the mega rich Premier League owners don’t have it easy.
Manchester United fans hate Malcolm Glazer. So much so a large group would rather set up their own club rather than give him any of their hard-earned cash.
FC United is a true example of the community club. Two thousand fans who rule by committee. No shareholders. No grab for cash, unlike the club’s estranged big brother. Supporters are a part of the club at every turn and so the team’s victory is truly their victory.
It’s the future, a club you can call your own and players you can relate too.
In fact do Premier League owners really rule their clubs, or do the players?
The damage the Wayne Rooney debacle has done – holding a great of world football to ransom for a few thousand more – will come back to haunt the mega bucks player, because the link between them and the rank-and-file fan has gone.
To pay the likes of Rooney his pieces of silver the Glazers will screw the supporters that little bit more. And how much longer can they put up with a family ticket price of £200. £40 on food. Five pound for a programme. Club memberships fees, a shirt a year for the kid(s), blah, blah, blah.
Just as supporters were being turned off the sport by the violence in 70s and 80s, greed is doing the same now.
Foreign owners have come in thinking with the TV deal in place and season ticket sales, the Premier League is a sure thing.
That’s fine if you’re Roman Abramovich or Sheikh Mansour, but Tom Hicks and George Gillett have just found out that the stadiums aren’t paved with gold.
And the Glazers may find it out very soon, because if they continue to put the squeeze on the fans, many will become disillusioned with the Premier League. Just like the people who set up FC United.
They can’t go cold turkey on football, the game is too ingrained into the British psyche.
But you can wrestle control back from big business and give it back to the people who matter most in it all – the fan.
The future is a club you can feel a part of. Where you want to give them your money, not resent doing it.
For North Wales I want that community club to be Wrexham, but in truth we’re light years away from that.
Somewhere along the line the relationship between owner Geoff Moss, chairman Ian Roberts and the fans has been eroded.
It may be something to do with a multi-million pound student flats project built on something the club has very little of now – land.
When that goes what does the club really have left? How can you make a profit?
You always hear the well-meaning fans say: “If I became a millionaire I’d buy Wrexham.”
Would you? Would you really pour money into a club that in all honesty will always lose you cash. Where you’d leave yourself open to personal attacks even though you thought you were doing your best.
Football clubs – especially lower league ones – shouldn’t be owned by one or two people, they must be owned by communities.
Maybe the true essence of the community club is to start again and drop down the leagues – like FC United, like AFC Wimbledon, like Chester. As long as you have a ground, it’s do-able.
Most fans hope this doesn’t ever happen at Wrexham. But if that’s the price of getting their love for football back, they’ll probably pay it.
Football clubs were set up over a century ago by a small group of like-minded people to enjoy.
It’s time for football to come full circle.
Andrew Gilpin
THE day of the community club is coming... because who’d want to be a football club owner?
You’re on a hiding to nothing if you want to make money because you start with a certain amount of fans and slowly lose them through your decisions.
Supporters don’t like the manager. That’s a thousand gone. They’re unhappy with the prices. Say goodbye to another 500. Sold a top player? That's a 100. Had a crappy burger? That’s at least one person who’s never coming back.
Whatever initiatives you put into place you’re not going to grow more fans if the team isn’t successful, so you can’t make money from gate receipts.
You’ll have to look at the other assets.
You could sell on some players, but thanks to some guy called Bosman your first team is more or less worthless. You might as well try selling on the youngsters to keep it all going.
Then there’s the land. When you redevelop all that, what's left? You can’t grow any more of it.
Even the mega rich Premier League owners don’t have it easy.
Manchester United fans hate Malcolm Glazer. So much so a large group would rather set up their own club rather than give him any of their hard-earned cash.
FC United is a true example of the community club. Two thousand fans who rule by committee. No shareholders. No grab for cash, unlike the club’s estranged big brother. Supporters are a part of the club at every turn and so the team’s victory is truly their victory.
It’s the future, a club you can call your own and players you can relate too.
In fact do Premier League owners really rule their clubs, or do the players?
The damage the Wayne Rooney debacle has done – holding a great of world football to ransom for a few thousand more – will come back to haunt the mega bucks player, because the link between them and the rank-and-file fan has gone.
To pay the likes of Rooney his pieces of silver the Glazers will screw the supporters that little bit more. And how much longer can they put up with a family ticket price of £200. £40 on food. Five pound for a programme. Club memberships fees, a shirt a year for the kid(s), blah, blah, blah.
Just as supporters were being turned off the sport by the violence in 70s and 80s, greed is doing the same now.
Foreign owners have come in thinking with the TV deal in place and season ticket sales, the Premier League is a sure thing.
That’s fine if you’re Roman Abramovich or Sheikh Mansour, but Tom Hicks and George Gillett have just found out that the stadiums aren’t paved with gold.
And the Glazers may find it out very soon, because if they continue to put the squeeze on the fans, many will become disillusioned with the Premier League. Just like the people who set up FC United.
They can’t go cold turkey on football, the game is too ingrained into the British psyche.
But you can wrestle control back from big business and give it back to the people who matter most in it all – the fan.
The future is a club you can feel a part of. Where you want to give them your money, not resent doing it.
For North Wales I want that community club to be Wrexham, but in truth we’re light years away from that.
Somewhere along the line the relationship between owner Geoff Moss, chairman Ian Roberts and the fans has been eroded.
It may be something to do with a multi-million pound student flats project built on something the club has very little of now – land.
When that goes what does the club really have left? How can you make a profit?
You always hear the well-meaning fans say: “If I became a millionaire I’d buy Wrexham.”
Would you? Would you really pour money into a club that in all honesty will always lose you cash. Where you’d leave yourself open to personal attacks even though you thought you were doing your best.
Football clubs – especially lower league ones – shouldn’t be owned by one or two people, they must be owned by communities.
Maybe the true essence of the community club is to start again and drop down the leagues – like FC United, like AFC Wimbledon, like Chester. As long as you have a ground, it’s do-able.
Most fans hope this doesn’t ever happen at Wrexham. But if that’s the price of getting their love for football back, they’ll probably pay it.
Football clubs were set up over a century ago by a small group of like-minded people to enjoy.
It’s time for football to come full circle.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Colwyn Bay hold FC United in final friendly
Source: Daily Post
Aug 10 2009 by Tim Channon, Daily Post
COLWYN Bay drew 1-1 with Unibond Premier Division side FC United of Manchester in front of a healthy crowd of 780 at Llanelian Road in their final pre-season run out.
Phil Marsh put the Manchester side in front after 24 minutes when he latched onto a half-blocked back pass to Farai Jackson, but Kevin Holsgrove equalised on 72 minutes after an excellent jinking run and low cross by Eddie Jebb.
The Bay had the best of the opening stages with Ian Sheridan missing the target with a couple of early chances.
But substitute keeper Chris Sanna rescued Bay with four saves in the last five minutes to deny FC United a late winner.
Aug 10 2009 by Tim Channon, Daily Post
COLWYN Bay drew 1-1 with Unibond Premier Division side FC United of Manchester in front of a healthy crowd of 780 at Llanelian Road in their final pre-season run out.
Phil Marsh put the Manchester side in front after 24 minutes when he latched onto a half-blocked back pass to Farai Jackson, but Kevin Holsgrove equalised on 72 minutes after an excellent jinking run and low cross by Eddie Jebb.
The Bay had the best of the opening stages with Ian Sheridan missing the target with a couple of early chances.
But substitute keeper Chris Sanna rescued Bay with four saves in the last five minutes to deny FC United a late winner.
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Colwyn Bay boss cautious ahead of FC United clash
Source: Daily Post
Aug 8 2009 by Tim Channon, Daily Post
COLWYN BAY complete their pre-season programme with a home game against FC United of Manchester today.
Manager Neil Young says the clash will be another good test of his squad.
“They are a good footballing side who like to pass the ball around and it should be a very interesting game,” he said.
Full-back Gary Scott is away on holiday, while Kevin Holsgrove (blisters) and Lee Hammond (flu) will require late fitness checks and will not be risked if there is any doubt.
“We’ve got two very important training sessions next Tuesday and Thursday to prepare for our first league game against FC Halifax and we want to have everybody fit to take part in those if we can,” added the manager.
He is hoping to add another central defender to the squad early next week, but former Liverpool youth team player Adriano Rigoglioso will not now be joining the Seagulls.
He was offered terms, but has accepted an offer from Conference side Grays Athletic instead.
Aug 8 2009 by Tim Channon, Daily Post
COLWYN BAY complete their pre-season programme with a home game against FC United of Manchester today.
Manager Neil Young says the clash will be another good test of his squad.
“They are a good footballing side who like to pass the ball around and it should be a very interesting game,” he said.
Full-back Gary Scott is away on holiday, while Kevin Holsgrove (blisters) and Lee Hammond (flu) will require late fitness checks and will not be risked if there is any doubt.
“We’ve got two very important training sessions next Tuesday and Thursday to prepare for our first league game against FC Halifax and we want to have everybody fit to take part in those if we can,” added the manager.
He is hoping to add another central defender to the squad early next week, but former Liverpool youth team player Adriano Rigoglioso will not now be joining the Seagulls.
He was offered terms, but has accepted an offer from Conference side Grays Athletic instead.
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